bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A pyrene‐based chromo‐fluorogenic probe for specific detection of sarin gas mimic, diethylchlorophosphate
Authors: Chourasia Jyoti , Tohora Najmin , Sultana Tuhina , Mahato Manas , Maiti Arpita , Ahamed Sabbir , Das Sudhir Kumar
Published: April 2024

Nerve agents are becoming serious issues for the healthy and sustainable environment of modern civilization. Therefore, its detection and degradation are of paramount importance to the scientific community. In the present contribution, we have introduced a chromo‐fluorogenic pyrene‐based  probe, (E)‐2‐methoxy‐3‐(pyren‐1‐ylimino)‐3,8a‐dihydro‐2H‐chromen‐4‐ol (PMCO) to detect sarin stimulant diethylchlorophosphate (DCP) in solution and gaseous phases. On inserting DCP in PMCO solution, a visual colorimetric change from yellow to clear colourless in daylight and highly intensified blue fluorescence was observed instantly under a 365 nm portable UV lamp light. PMCO has outstanding selectivity and high sensitivity with a limit of detection of 1.32 μM in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) medium and 77.5 nM in 20% H2O‐DMSO. A handy strained paper strip‐based experiment was demonstrated to recognize DCP in a mixture of similar toxic analytes. A dip‐stick experiment was performed to identify DCP vapour, and may be used as an effective photonic tool. We also demonstrated real sample analysis utilizing different DCP‐spiked water samples and validating DCP detection even in various types of soils such as sand, field, and mud. Therefore, this present study provides an effective chemosensor for instant and on‐site detection of toxic nerve agents in dangerous circumstances.
Understanding the influence of implicit theories on donor's preference for time or money
Authors: Song Doori , Rim Hyejoon
Published: April 2024

Charitable giving depends on either time or money. Understanding what motivates donors to choose one resource over the other is crucial for various nonprofit organizations. This research, rooted in implicit theories, examines how donors' beliefs about the fixedness or malleability of human attributes influence their preference of donation resource. Three experiments revealed that donors who believe human traits are fixed (entity theory) are more inclined to donate money, while those who view human nature as malleable (incremental theory) are more likely to donate time. The results also suggest that analytic thinking mediates the monetary donations of entity theorists, whereas holistic thinking influences incremental theorists to give their time. This study provides invaluable insights for nonprofit organizations aiming to optimize their fundraising strategies, illustrating how beliefs about human nature can sway preferences for different donation resources.
Commercial value of panic buying and its marketing implications
Authors: Lim Weng Marc , Kalantari Hassan Daronkola , Perera Chamila Roshani
Published: April 2024

In the wake of the significant impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on industries and societies worldwide, the world has transitioned into a new normal marked by increased susceptibility to disruptive, volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (DVUCA) events. In this new normal, panic buying has proliferated into a pervasive global consumer behavior, rendering far‐reaching implications on economies and societies worldwide and thus necessitating thorough investigation. Existing literature on panic buying is constrained by two noteworthy limitations: firstly, the scarcity of studies that delineate the commercial impact of panic buying, and secondly, the dearth of longitudinal data in panic buying research. Addressing these gaps, this study employs longitudinal multi‐sourced monthly and seasonally adjusted secondary data comprising retail revenue of supermarkets and grocery stores and related COVID‐19 indicators in Australia to establish a case of panic buying and examine its commercial impact. Using 10 generalized least squares and two‐stage least squares regressions, we observe a positive, statistically significant relationship between the intensity of external crises and retail revenue, even when accounting for control and instrumental variables. Specifically, the increasing number of COVID‐19 new cases was found to produce a positive and significant effect on supermarket and grocery store revenue, with each new case contributing AU $0.02 million. Therefore, the present study contributes alternative evidence from the field that not only reaffirms the effect of externalities such as COVID‐19 in stimulating panic buying among consumers, but also highlights, for the first time, the commercial value of panic buying. The marketing implications of these findings in the new normal are also discussed.
A multicenter prospective observational study appraising the effectiveness of the Supera stent after subintimal recanalization of femoro‐popliteal artery occlusion: The SUPERSUB II study
Authors: Palena Luis Mariano , Isernia Giacomo , Parlani Gianbattista , Veroux Pierfrancesco , Ficarelli Ilaria , Frascheri Arian , Pischedda Aldo , Patrone Lorenzo , Dionisi Carlo Patrizio , Cianni Roberto , Airoldi Flavio , Landino Pietro , Kleiban Andrès , Filauri Pietro , Passalacqua Giovanni , Antignani Pier Luigi , De Rose Enrico , Valls Albert , Biondi‐Zoccai Giuseppe , Manzi Marco
Published: April 2024

Background

Complex femoropopliteal artery disease represents a challenge. The Supera stent holds the promise of improving the results of endovascular therapy for complex femoropopliteal disease.

Aims

We aimed at appraising the early and long‐term effectiveness of the Supera stent after successful subintimal angioplasty (SuperSUB strategy) for complex femoropopliteal lesions.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, prospective, single‐arm observational study including consecutive patients at participating centers in whom Supera was implanted after successful subintimal angioplasty for complex femoropopliteal lesions.

Results

A total of 92 patients were included Femoropopliteal arteries were the most common target, and lesion length was 261 ± 102 mm. Most procedures were technically demanding, with antegrade femoral access in 35 (38%) and retrograde distal access in 55 (60%). Supera stent length was 281 ± 111 mm, with 4, 5, and 6 mm devices being most commonly used: 32 (35%), 35 (38%), and 23 (25%), respectively. Technical success was achieved in 100% of subjects, as was clinical success (per subject), whereas procedural success (per subject) was obtained in 98%. At 24 months, freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization was 93%, whereas primary patency was 87%. When compared with a similar historical cohort, Supera stent use appeared to be associated with a reduction in resources.

Conclusion

Use of Supera stent after successful subintimal recanalization of complex lower limb arterial lesions yields favorable procedural results, which are maintained over follow‐up, and are associated also with a favorable resource use profile.
A case report on multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS‐C) associated with COVID‐19 infection
Authors: Bhandari Roshan , Paudyal Richa , Paudyal Abhigya , Beniwal Shreya Singh
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

Early recognition and treatment of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS‐C) within the context of COVID‐19 infection is crucial for improved outcomes. Prompt intervention with IVIG and steroids leads to significant improvement in a severe case of MIS‐C. Clinicians should be vigilant for MIS‐C symptoms and initiate timely management.

We report a case involving a fourteen‐year‐old male with COVID‐19 infection who developed multisystem inflammatory disease. A previously healthy child presented with a history of 10 days of fever and cough, along with diarrhea, and vomiting for 3 days. His COVID‐19 infection was confirmed through Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), and the laboratory values were remarkable for high levels of C‐reactive protein, D‐dimers, B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP), and troponin I. He developed circulatory shock on the second day of the presentation and needed inotropic support. Steroids and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were started in light of Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS‐C), which improved his condition. Thus, during the management of COVID‐19 infection, early detection and a careful clinical characterization for MIS‐C are essential.
Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Tri‐antennary N‐Glycans Terminating in Sialyl‐Lewisx Reveals the Importance of Glycan Complexity for Influenza A Virus Receptor Binding
Authors: Li Tiehai , Spruit Cindy M. , Wei Na , Liu Lin , Wolfert Margreet A. , de Vries Robert P. , Boons Geert‐Jan
Published: April 2024

Sialyl‐Lewisx (SLex) is involved in immune regulation, human fertilization, cancer, and bacterial and viral diseases. The influence of the complex glycan structures, which can present SLex epitopes, on binding is largely unknown. We report here a chemoenzymatic strategy for the preparation of a panel of twenty‐two isomeric asymmetrical tri‐antennary N‐glycans presenting SLex‐Lex epitopes on either the MGAT4 or MGAT5 arm that include putative high‐affinity ligands for E‐selectin. The N‐glycans were prepared starting from a sialoglycopeptide isolated from egg yolk powder and took advantage of inherent substrate preferences of glycosyltransferases and the use of 5′‐diphospho‐N‐trifluoracetylglucosamine (UDP‐GlcNHTFA) that can be transferred by branching N‐acetylglucosaminyltransferases to give, after base treatment, GlcNH2‐containing glycans that temporarily disable an antenna from enzymatic modification. Glycan microarray binding studies showed that E‐selectin bound equally well to linear glycans and tri‐antennary N‐glycans presenting SLex‐Lex. On the other hand, it was found that hemagglutinins (HA) of H5 influenza A viruses (IAV) preferentially bound the tri‐antennary N‐glycans. Furthermore, several H5 HAs preferentially bound to N‐glycan presenting SLex on the MGAT4 arm. SLex is displayed in the respiratory tract of several avian species, demonstrating the relevance of investigating the binding of, among others IAVs, to complex N‐glycans presenting SLex.
A review on applications of fine particles integrated with fluidization technologies
Authors: Song Yue , Yuan Yue , Zhu Jesse
Published: April 2024

Fine particles possess remarkable characteristics including extensive surface‐to‐weight ratios and diverse morphologies. Consequently, through the use of fluidization techniques, they have become favoured in various industrial processes, especially with continuous production. This review paper offers a comprehensive exploration of the integration of fine particle applications with fluidization technologies, with a specific focus on the Geldart Group C particles sized <25–40 μm. Although there are challenges with processing fine particles such as the strong cohesion in fluidized beds, recent progress, including the nanoparticle modulation method, has demonstrated potential solutions. These advancements render these cohesive particles applicable to industrial applications in different fields, including gas‐phase catalytic reactions, gas–solid fluidized bed coal beneficiation, ultrafine powder coating (UPC), pharmaceuticals, environmental sustainability, energy storage, and food processing. However, further research is needed to obtain a better understanding of fine particle fluidization in industrial settings in order to achieve larger‐scale implementation. In summary, this review provides a comprehensive overview of fine particle utilization integrated with fluidization technologies, demonstrating the potential in large‐scale industrial processes, and enabling significant advancements in practical applications.
Annulation Cascades of Cyclosulfonium Salts and Alkenes towards Sulfur‐Containing N‐Heterocycles by Visible Light/Copper Catalysis
Authors: Ma Jie , Li Xufeng , Chen Yuqing , Shi Yongjia , Song Xiuyan , Lv Jian , Yang Daoshan
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Although, great achievements have been made in the synthesis of heterocycles using radical addition/cyclization strategy, developing versatile alkyl radical precursors, especially the non‐stabilized long chain alkyl radicals for this strategy still remains a huge challenge. Herein, we report an efficient annulation cascade reaction between cyclosulfonium salts and alkenes for the synthesis of sulfur‐containing N‐heterocycles by visible light/copper catalysis under mild conditions. The C—S bond cleavage/radical cascade reaction delivers a variety of corresponding N‐heterocycles containing aryl alkyl thioether motifs with good functional group tolerance. Significantly, the current system could be used for the late‐stage functionalization of complex bioactive molecules.
Effect of Thermo‐ and pH‐Sensitive Block Copolymer Structure and Composition on the Synthesis and Stabilization of Gold Nanoparticles
Authors: Yin Fang , Wan Yuezhan , Ciuculescu‐Pradines Diana , Lauth‐de Viguerie Nancy , Marty Jean‐Daniel
Published: April 2024

Homopolymers of poly[N‐(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl) acrylamide] exhibit the ability to adsorb onto the surface of preformed or growing gold nanoparticles. The resulting hybrid materials possess a pH and thermo‐sensitive nature. Consequently, their optical properties can be modulated by manipulating either the temperature or the pH. Moreover, introducing monomers based on poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) into block or random statistical polymers enables further modulation of the thermosensitive properties. These copolymers, employed for the in‐situ synthesis and/or stabilization of gold nanoparticles, lead to hybrid materials whose properties and/or particle size depend on the polymer composition and microstructure: statistical polymers emerge as superior stabilizing agents compared to their block counterparts at a constant composition.
Reciprocal crosstalk between Th17 and mesothelial cells promotes metastasis‐associated adhesion of ovarian cancer cells
Authors: Neuhaus Felix , Lieber Sonja , Shinkevich Veronika , Steitz Anna Mary , Raifer Hartmann , Roth Kathrin , Finkernagel Florian , Worzfeld Thomas , Burchert Andreas , Keber Corinna , Nist Andrea , Stiewe Thorsten , Reinartz Silke , Beutgen Vanessa M. , Graumann Johannes , Pauck Kim , Garn Holger , Gaida Matthias , Müller Rolf , Huber Magdalena
Published: April 2024

Background

IL‐17A and TNF synergistically promote inflammation and tumorigenesis. Their interplay and impact on ovarian carcinoma (OC) progression are, however, poorly understood. We addressed this question focusing on mesothelial cells, whose interaction with tumor cells is known to play a pivotal role in transcoelomic metastasis formation.

Methods

Flow‐cytometry and immunohistochemistry experiments were employed to identify cellular sources of IL‐17A and TNF. Changes in transcriptomes and secretomes were determined by bulk and single cell RNA sequencing as well as affinity proteomics. Functional consequences were investigated by microscopic analyses and tumor cell adhesion assays. Potential clinical implications were assessed by immunohistochemistry and survival analyses.

Results

We identified Th17 cells as the main population of IL‐17A‐ and TNF producers in ascites and detected their accumulation in early omental metastases. Both IL‐17A and its receptor subunit IL‐17RC were associated with short survival of OC patients, pointing to a role in clinical progression. IL‐17A and TNF synergistically induced the reprogramming of mesothelial cells towards a pro‐inflammatory mesenchymal phenotype, concomitantly with a loss of tight junctions and an impairment of mesothelial monolayer integrity, thereby promoting cancer cell adhesion. IL‐17A and TNF synergistically induced the Th17‐promoting cytokines IL‐6 and IL‐1β as well as the Th17‐attracting chemokine CCL20 in mesothelial cells, indicating a reciprocal crosstalk that potentiates the tumor‐promoting role of Th17 cells in OC.

Conclusions

Our findings reveal a novel function for Th17 cells in the OC microenvironment, which entails the IL‐17A/TNF‐mediated induction of mesothelial‐mesenchymal transition, disruption of mesothelial layer integrity and consequently promotion of OC cell adhesion. These effects are potentiated by a positive feedback loop between mesothelial and Th17 cells. Together with the observed clinical associations and accumulation of Th17 cells in omental micrometastases, our observations point to a potential role in early metastases formation and thus to new therapeutic options.
Circulating immune cell landscape and T‐cell abnormalities in patients with moyamoya disease
Authors: Ge Peicong , Tao Chuming , Wang Wenjing , He Qiheng , Liu Chenglong , Zheng Zhiyao , Mou Siqi , Zhang Bojian , Liu Xingju , Zhang Qian , Wang Rong , Li Hao , Zhang Dong , Zhao Jizong
Published: April 2024

Background

Moyamoya disease (MMD) stands as a prominent cause of stroke among children and adolescents in East Asian populations. Although a growing body of evidence suggests that dysregulated inflammation and autoimmune responses might contribute to the development of MMD, a comprehensive and detailed understanding of the alterations in circulating immune cells associated with MMD remains elusive.

Methods

In this study, we employed a combination of single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq), mass cytometry and RNA‐sequencing techniques to compare immune cell profiles in peripheral blood samples obtained from patients with MMD and age‐matched healthy controls.

Results

Our investigation unveiled immune dysfunction in MMD patients, primarily characterized by perturbations in T‐cell (TC) subpopulations, including a reduction in effector TCs and an increase in regulatory TCs (Tregs). Additionally, we observed diminished natural killer cells and dendritic cells alongside heightened B cells and monocytes in MMD patients. Notably, within the MMD group, there was an augmented proportion of fragile Tregs, whereas the stable Treg fraction decreased. MMD was also linked to heightened immune activation, as evidenced by elevated expression levels of HLA‐DR and p‐STAT3.

Conclusions

Our findings offer a comprehensive view of the circulating immune cell landscape in MMD patients. Immune dysregulation in patients with MMD was characterized by alterations in T‐cell populations, including a decrease in effector T‐cells and an increase in regulatory T‐cells (Tregs), suggest a potential role for disrupted circulating immunity in the aetiology of MMD.
Compact ultrawideband MIMO slot antenna with high isolation
Authors: Chen Gui Run , Ye Liang Hua , Jiang Huan , Tian Xinxin , Hu Zhenxin , Li Jian‐Feng
Published: April 2024

An ultrawideband multiple‐input‐multiple‐output (MIMO) slot antenna with a small size and high isolation is introduced. Two multi‐stepped microstrip lines are used to feed the MIMO antenna and the ground plane is designed in a defective structure for achieving good impedance matching in an ultrawide frequency range. A 3T‐shaped strip is utilized to diminish the coupling between the two microstrip feed lines for isolation improvement over the operating band. Two open‐end rectangular slots are attached in the ground plane of the MIMO antenna to generate anti‐phase current for further enhancing the isolation. By using this novel method, a compact ultrawideband MIMO slot antenna is designed and measured. It obtains an ultrawide bandwidth of 162.0%, ranging from 0.63 to 6 GHz, and excellent isolation of beyond 20 dB. Additionally, our MIMO antenna achieves a very low envelope correlation coefficient (ECC) of below 0.005, indicating its good diversity performance.
Postfire reproduction of a serotinous conifer, the giant sequoia, in the Nelder Grove, California
Authors: Hanson Chad T. , Chi Tonja Y. , Baker Bryant C. , Khosla Maya , Dorsey Michael K.
Published: April 2024

The giant sequoia, a serotinous conifer naturally occurring in mixed‐conifer forests of the southern and central Sierra Nevada, California, USA, is the world's largest tree species. Giant sequoia reproduction has been severely lacking over the past century, due to fire exclusion, creating a significant conservation threat. Previous research on postfire sequoia reproduction in high‐severity fire areas, relative to low‐ and moderate‐severity areas, is limited. At 6 years postfire, we investigated giant sequoia reproduction in a high‐severity fire area, and nearby low‐/mixed‐severity fire areas, in the Nelder Grove, which burned in 2017 in the Railroad fire. Postfire giant sequoia reproduction was positively correlated with fire severity in terms of density, height (growth), and proportion (relative to other conifer species), and sequoia seedling/sapling density was positively correlated with percent shrub cover. There was no correlation between distance to live sequoia seed source and density of sequoia reproduction. More research is needed in other mixed‐severity fire areas, with larger high‐severity fire patches, to determine whether a similar postfire response occurs elsewhere.
Environmental heterogeneity at two spatial scales affects litter diversity–decomposition relationships
Authors: Ospina‐Bautista Fabiola , Srivastava Diane S. , Realpe Emilio , Fernández Ana María
Published: April 2024

The effects of biodiversity on ecological processes have been experimentally evaluated mainly at the local scale under homogeneous conditions. To scale up experimentally based biodiversity‐functioning relationships, there is an urgent need to understand how such relationships are affected by the environmental heterogeneity that characterizes larger spatial scales. Here, we tested the effects of an 800‐m elevation gradient (a large‐scale environmental factor) and forest habitat (a fine‐scale factor) on litter diversity–decomposition relationships. To better understand local and landscape scale mechanisms, we partitioned net biodiversity effects into complementarity, selection, and insurance effects as applicable at each scale. We assembled different litter mixtures in aquatic microcosms that simulated natural tree holes, replicating mixtures across blocks nested within forest habitats (edge, interior) and elevations (low, mid, high). We found that net biodiversity and complementarity effects increased over the elevation gradient, with their strength modified by forest habitat and the identity of litter in mixtures. Complementarity effects at local and landscape scales were greatest for combinations of nutrient‐rich and nutrient‐poor litters, consistent with nutrient transfer mechanisms. By contrast, selection effects were consistently weak and negative at both scales. Selection effects at the landscape level were due mainly to nonrandom overyielding rather than spatial insurance effects. Our findings demonstrate that the mechanisms by which litter diversity affects decomposition are sensitive to environmental heterogeneity at multiple scales. This has implications for the scaling of biodiversity–ecosystem function relationships and suggests that future shifts in environmental conditions due to climate change or land use may impact the functioning of aquatic ecosystems.
Care‐seeking delay of patients with heart failure in China: a mixed‐method study
Authors: Xu Mengqi , Ruan Tiantian , Huang Xiaoli , Han Beibei , Li Yingqi , Ding Yuan , Zhu Lingyan
Published: April 2024

Aim

This study aims to explore the duration and influencing factors of care‐seeking delay among patients with heart failure (HF) in China.

Methods and results

A convergent mixed method containing a cross‐sectional study and two parts of qualitative studies was designed, following the STROBE and COREQ guidelines. Convenience sampling was applied to recruit patients with HF from two general hospitals from December 2021 to December 2022. Purposive sampling was used to enrol healthcare professionals from two general hospitals and two community hospitals from June to November 2022. Among the 258 patients with HF in the cross‐sectional study, the median duration of care‐seeking delay was 7.5 days. The result integration indicated that the delay duration was influenced by the dyspnoea symptom burden, the oedema symptom burden, and the depression status. The lower dyspnoea symptom burden, the higher oedema symptom burden, and the higher depression score were related to the prolonged care‐seeking delay duration. The duration was also affected by the COVID‐19 pandemic, level of support from medical system, and the symptom management abilities of the caregivers. The COVID‐19 pandemic, low level of support from medical system, and limited symptom management abilities of caregivers were related to the prolonged care‐seeking delay duration.

Conclusions

Care‐seeking delay among patients with HF needs attention in China. The duration of care‐seeking delay of patients with HF was influenced by the dyspnoea symptom burden, the oedema symptom burden, and depression status, as well as the COVID‐19 pandemic, level of support from medical system, and the symptom management abilities of the caregivers.
Elucidating the Key Factors in Hydroamination and Defluoroamination Competitions: A DFT Analysis of Reaction between α‐(Trifluoromethyl)styrene and 2‐Pyridones
Authors: Xu Haoran , Zhang Yuchen , Xue Xiao‐Song
Published: April 2024

β‐fluorocarbanions have garnered considerable attention for their dual reactivity in nucleophilic processes and β‐fluorine elimination. In this study, a thorough computational analysis was conducted to explore the reactions of α‐(trifluoromethyl)styrenes with 2‐pyridones to delineate the factors determining protonation or defluorination pathways for the in situ generated β‐fluorocarbanions under varied basic conditions. Our findings illuminate the critical role of organobase basicity in steering the direction of the competitive protonation and β‐fluorine elimination reactions. We propose the use of pKaH values of organobases as a quantitative indicator for discerning the predominant reaction pathways. This provides an efficient approach to predict and control the reaction outcome, facilitating the deliberate design of reactions to leverage the unique reactivity of β‐fluorocarbanions in the realm of fluorine chemistry.
2D Nickel Sulfide Electrodes with Superior Electrochemical Thermal Stability along with Long Cyclic Stability for Supercapatteries
Authors: Thomas Susmi Anna , Cherusseri Jayesh , N. Rajendran Deepthi
Published: April 2024

Supercapatteries are contemporary electrochemical energy‐storage devices that bridge the gap between the conventional supercapacitors and rechargeable batteries. Supercapatteries utilize battery‐type electrode‐active materials for their charge storage. Among the various futuristic materials, transition‐metal dichalcogenides receive prominent attention due to their excellent charge‐storage capabilities. Herein, the microwave‐assisted hydrothermal synthesis of layered two‐dimensional (2D) nickel sulfide nanosheets (NSN) and their application as electrode‐active materials in high‐performance asymmetric supercapatteries are reported. The layered 2D architecture is preferred for the electrode‐active materials as the layered electrode nanostructure provides a hindrance‐free movement to the electrolyte ions through it during the charge‐storage process that include intercalation/deintercalation mechanisms. The electrochemical thermal stability of the 2D NSN electrode reveals that its stability in KOH (aqueous) electrolyte is better than that in LiOH (aqueous) and NaOH (aqueous) electrolytes. The supercapattery electrode synthesized using 2D NSN exhibits excellent electrochemical charge‐storage performances bearing a maximum specific capacity of 594.77 C g−1 (an equivalent mass‐specific capacitance of 991.29 F g−1) in 2 M KOH (aqueous) electrolyte. The electrochemical cycling performance of the 2D NSN electrode shows a stability over 40 000 cycles without any significant capacity loss. An asymmetric supercapattery device fabricated with 2D NSN electrode as positrode and activated carbon as negatrode exhibits a maximum mass‐specific capacity of 143.58 C g−1 with a corresponding energy density of 29.91 Wh kg−1 in 2 M KOH (aqueous) electrolyte.
Dis‐playing gender: From ludic reconfiguration to utopic outcomes in gender‐swap apps
Authors: Piluso Francesco
Published: April 2024

An increasing number of AI‐based gender‐swap applications have become a popular trend in our social media platforms and communities, rising controversial issues beyond their apparently playful intent. The primary ludic function informing the use/consumption of such apps opens to further signification and valorization of the produced images. In many cases, the portrait pictures, modified through a system of filters, assume an existential and utopic value for (transgender and nonbinary) users who have the possibility to reimagining and reperforming their gender identity. At the same time, the social availability and disposability of such images risk to trivialize the subjective and highly complex process of sexual and gender transition undergone by many people on their own material body in real life. The aim of this paper is to point out the ambivalences and the possibilities opened by gender‐swap apps for what concerns the issue of gender identity. Through the analysis of a corpus of promotional messages and users' responses to the gender‐swap apps, it is argued that these trans‐faces, far from operating a flawless passing from a gender to the other, constantly dis‐play the social construction and deconstruction of sexual and gender binary identities.
The “great imitator”: IgG4‐related disease of the oral cavity. Two case reports and scoping review
Authors: Azzi Lorenzo , Magnoli Francesca , Krepysheva Diana , Fontana Federico , Coppola Andrea , Cappelli Antonella , Dani Marta , Battaglia Paolo , Rabbiosi Dimitri
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to review the lesser‐known intraoral manifestations of immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD). In this paper we report an unprecedented case of oral IgG4‐RD mimicking angiolymphoid hyperplasia with eosinophilia (ALHE), and another case presenting as plasma cell gingivitis. We then performed a scoping review of published cases of IgG4‐RD involving the oral cavity. The following data were collected for each case: age, sex, intraoral site(s) involved, clinical appearance, imaging features, serum IgG4 values, histopathology, treatment, and follow‐up duration. Fifty‐one cases of oral IgG4‐RD were published in literature. The hard palate and jaw bones were the two main locations reported, while the histological identification of a IgG4/IgG plasma cells ratio ≥40% was fundamental for diagnosis. Conversely, the pathological features of storiform fibrosis and obliterative phlebitis were not common. Future reports regarding oral IgG4‐RD should report clear adherence to the recognized international diagnostic criteria of the disease.
Depression and thoughts of self‐harm or suicide among gender and sexually diverse people in a regional Australian community
Authors: Phillips Tania M. , Austin Gavin , Sanders Tait , Martin Margaret , Hudson Jacqueline , Fort Alexandra , Excell Tarra , Mullens Amy B. , Brömdal Annette
Published: April 2024

Issues Addressed

There is a paucity of data regarding depression and thoughts of self‐harm or suicide among gender and sexually diverse (GSD) people living within Australian regional/rural locations. This study aims to elucidate these issues and fill a critical gap.

Methods

The sample included 91 GSD people from a regional community in South‐West Queensland utilising the PHQ‐9 to determine presence/severity of depression and self‐harm/suicide ideation. These data were drawn from a larger health and wellbeing survey. Raw mean scores were calculated to determine prevalence/severity of clinical symptoms. Bayesian ordinal regression models were employed to analyse between‐subgroup differences in depression and self‐harm/suicide ideation.

Results

Overall, 80.2% of GSD sample experienced depression (35.2% severe, 45.1% mild/moderate) and 41.8% experienced self‐harm/suicide ideation in the past two‐weeks. Trans and nonbinary people experienced higher levels of depressions than sexually diverse cisgender people. Pansexual and bisexual people experienced higher levels of depression than gay people. Trans people experienced higher prevalence of self‐harm/suicide ideation than cisgender and nonbinary people, with no differences between sexuality subgroups.

Conclusions

These findings contribute to deeper and more nuanced insights regarding clinically salient depressive and self‐harm/suicide ideation symptoms among trans, nonbinary, bisexual, pansexual and queer people in regional Australian communities, with the aim to ultimately reduce mental health prevalence, improve mental health outcomes and health promotion among GSD people.

So What?

The current findings revealed GSD people experience high prevalence of depression and self‐harm/suicide ideation indicating tailored mental health awareness‐raising, training and health promotion is warranted to enhance psychological support.
Local Men Local Communities: A rural placed‐based approach to increase men's engagement with mental health training and events
Authors: Bransgrove Natalie J. , Porter Joanne E. , Prokopiv Valerie , Wildblood Robyn , Prezioso Michelle , Bradley Vicki , Look Barbara
Published: April 2024

Issue Addressed

Suicide is the leading cause of death for Australians aged 15–49 (Department of Health and Aged Care Suicide in Australia, https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/mental-health-and-suicide-prevention/suicide-in-australia, 2021). With the loss of one community member impacting the individual's family, friends, and wider community. The aim of the article is to showcase a process evaluation of a place‐based approach to suicide prevention, exploring the elements of mental health training and events that can be tailored to increase engagement with the men living in a rural Local Government Area in Gippsland, Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Participation records and promotional material for the Local Men Local Communities project was utilised to explore similarities and differences between the training and events offered.

Results

Results indicated that men living in rural areas engaged best with events that included a social element such as food or an activity, highlighting that men may find it easier to talk and connect when they have something to do.

Conclusion

Mental health training and events need to be tailored to meet the needs of the target population. Key details to consider include location, time, promotional material, content, and inclusion of a social element.

So What?

When rural men were provided ownership of their conversations, they were more likely to have them. This challenges the stereotype that men do not talk and creates the opportunity for social connection within the community.
Costs of integrating hepatitis B screening and antiviral prophylaxis into routine antenatal care in Burkina Faso: Treat all versus targeted strategies
Authors: Gosset Andréa , Drabo Seydou , Carrieri Patrizia , Tiendrebeogo Abdoul Salam Eric , Vincent Jeanne Perpétue , Tanaka Yasuhito , Sombié Roger , Tall Haoua , Kania Dramane , Boyer Sylvie , Shimakawa Yusuke
Published: April 2024

Objective

Economic feasibility of eliminating mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in highly endemic African countries remains uncertain. Prevention of MTCT (PMTCT) involves screening pregnant women for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), identifying those with high viral loads or hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg), and administering tenofovir prophylaxis to high‐risk women. We estimated the costs of integrating PMTCT services into antenatal care in Burkina Faso, based on four different strategies to select women for tenofovir prophylaxis: (1) HBV DNA (≥200 000 IU/mL), (2) HBeAg, (3) hepatitis B core‐related antigen rapid diagnostic test (HBcrAg‐RDT) and (4) all HBsAg‐positive women.

Methods

Using a micro‐costing approach, we estimated the incremental economic cost of integrating each strategy into routine antenatal care in 2024, compared to neonatal vaccination alone. Sensitivity analyses explored variations in prevalence, service coverage, test and tenofovir prices.

Results

HBcrAg‐RDT strategy was the least expensive, with a total economic cost of US$3959689, compared to HBV DNA (US$6128875), HBeAg (US$4135233), and treat‐all (US$4141206). The cost per pregnant woman receiving tenofovir prophylaxis varied from US$61.88 (Treat‐all) to US$1071.05 (HBV DNA). The Treat‐All strategy had the lowest marginal cost due to a higher number of women on tenofovir (66928) compared to HBV DNA (5722), HBeAg (10020), and HBcrAg‐RDT (7234). In sensitivity analyses, the treat‐all strategy became less expensive when the tenofovir price decreased.

Conclusion

HBcrAg‐RDT minimizes resource use and costs, representing 0.61% of Burkina Faso's 2022 health budget. This study highlights the potential economic feasibility of these strategies and provides valuable resources for conducting cost‐effectiveness analyses.
Noncontingent reinforcement in the treatment of pediatric feeding disorder: A concise review
Authors: Van Arsdale Angie , Ibañez Vivian F. , Vollmer Timothy R.
Published: April 2024

This concise review summarizes the literature on noncontingent reinforcement in the treatment of pediatric feeding disorder from 2018 to 2022. We reviewed 15 published behavior‐analytic feeding studies to identify how often the term noncontingent reinforcement is used, what form of noncontingent reinforcement is delivered, and what the effects of noncontingent reinforcement are on behavior when it is included in treatment. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.
High‐resolution cell imaging using white light phase shifting interferometry and iterative phase deconvolution
Authors: Tiwari Shubham , Tayal Shilpa , Trivedi Shivam , Kaur Harpreet , Mehta Dalip Singh
Published: April 2024

An optimization algorithm is presented for the deconvolution of a complex field to improve the resolution and accuracy of quantitative phase imaging (QPI). A high‐resolution phase map can be recovered by solving a constrained optimization problem of deconvolution using a complex gradient operator. The method is demonstrated on phase measurements of samples using a white light based phase shifting interferometry (WLPSI) method. The application of the algorithm on real and simulated objects shows a significant resolution and contrast improvement. Experiments performed on Escherichia coli bacterium have revealed its sub‐cellular structures that were not visible in the raw WLPSI images obtained using a five phase shifting method. These features can give valuable insights into the structures and functioning of biological cells. The algorithm is simple in implementation and can be incorporated into other QPI modalities .
Protective effects of esculetin against doxorubicin‐induced toxicity correlated with oxidative stress in rat liver: In vivo and in silico studies
Authors: Köroğlu Zeynep , Kizir Duygu , Karaman Melike , Demir Yeliz , Türkeş Cüneyt , Beydemir Şükrü
Published: April 2024

Doxorubicin (DOX) is widely used in cancer treatment but the dose‐related toxicity of DOX on organs including the liver limit its use. Therefore, there is great interest in combining DOX with natural compounds with antioxidant properties to reduce toxicity and increase drug efficacy. Esculetin is a natural coumarin derivative with biological properties encompassing anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities. In light of these properties, this study was meticulously crafted to investigate the potential of esculetin in preventing doxorubicin (DOX)‐induced hepatotoxicity in Sprague‐Dawley rats. The rats were divided into a total of six groups: control group, DOX group (administered DOX at a cumulative dose of 5 mg/kg intraperitoneally every other day for 2 weeks), E50 group (administered 50 mg/kg of esculetin intraperitoneally every day), E100 group (administered 100 mg/kg of esculetin intraperitoneally every day) and combined groups (DOX + E50 and DOX + E100) in which esculetin was administered together with DOX. The treatments, both with DOX alone and in combination with E50, manifested a reduction in catalase (CAT mRNA) levels in comparison to the control group. Notably, the enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), CAT, and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) witnessed significant decreases in the liver of rats treated with DOX. Moreover, DOX treatment induced a statistically significant elevation in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, coupled with a concurrent decrease in glutathione (GSH) levels. Additionally, molecular docking studies were conducted. However, further studies are needed to confirm the hepatoprotective properties of esculetin and to precisely elucidate its mechanisms of action.
Neural network‐based simulation of fields and losses in electrical machines with ferromagnetic laminated cores
Authors: Purnode Florent , Henrotte François , Louppe Gilles , Geuzaine Christophe
Published: April 2024

Due to the distribution of eddy currents inside ferromagnetic laminations, the accurate modeling of magnetic fields and losses in the laminated cores of electrical machines requires resolving individual laminations with a fine 3D discretization. This yields finite element models so huge and costly that they are unusable in daily industrial R&D. In consequence, hysteresis and eddy currents in laminations are often simply disregarded in the modeling: the laminated core is assumed to be made of a reversible (non lossy) saturable material, and magnetic losses are evaluated a posteriori, by means of Steinmetz–Bertotti like empirical formulas. However, in a context where industry is struggling to minutely assess the impact of magnetic losses on their devices, this simplified approach is more and more regarded as inaccurate and unsatisfactory. This article proposes a solution to this issue, based on homogenization and on detailed mesoscopic simulations of eddy currents and hysteresis inside the laminations. The proposed approach results in a close‐to‐conventional 2D magnetic vector potential finite element model, but equipped with an irreversible parametric material law to represent the ferromagnetic stack. In each finite element, the parameters of the law are obtained from a neural network trained to best fit the detailed mesoscopic simulations of the laminations subjected to the same local magnetic field. This way, all aspects of the irreversible ferromagnetic response are appropriately accounted for in the finite element simulation, but at a computational cost drastically reduced with regard to a brute force 3D calculation, and comparable to that of conventional 2D finite element simulations.
The “extra pinch” of pseudosand to enhance tropical biogeochemical processes understanding
Authors: Kilian Salas Simone , Meurer Katharina H. E. , Boy Diana , Díaz García Elisa , Woche Susanne K. , Boy Jens , Guggenberger Georg , Peth Stephan , Schroeder Paul. A. , Jungkunst Hermann F.
Published: April 2024

Despite knowing better, water‐stable aggregates like pseudosands are still disintegrated into their clay‐ and silt‐sized bits and pieces to serve standardization in texture determination. Lacking yet a viable alternative, this deliberately committed mistake seems the contemporary best practice for modeling purposes, which is far from being ideal. Here, we propose this misconception to be a major cause for flawed process understanding of tropical soils, leading to substantial uncertainties in model development. There is enough evidence as to why pseudosands are neither sand nor the plain sum of their clay‐ and silt‐sized units and should therefore better be defined as an additional soil texture class for which properties have yet to be examined across the tropics.
Distinct effects of racial and socioeconomic disparities on biliary atresia diagnosis and outcome
Authors: Bonn Julie , Gamm Kristen , Ambrosino Teresa , Orkin Sarah H. , Taylor Amy , Peters Anna L.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To identify and distinguish between racial and socioeconomic disparities in age at hepatology care, diagnosis, access to surgical therapy, and liver transplant‐free survival in patients with biliary atresia (BA).

Methods

Single‐center retrospective cohort study of 69 BA patients from 2010 to 2021. Patients were grouped into White and non‐White cohorts. The socioeconomic milieu was analyzed utilizing neighborhood deprivation index, a census tract‐based calculation of six socioeconomic variables. The primary outcomes of this study were timing of the first hepatology encounter, surgical treatment with hepatic portoenterostomy (HPE), and survival with native liver (SNL) at 2 years.

Results

Patients were 55% male and 72% White. White patients were referred at a median of 34 days (interquartile range [IQR]: 17–65) vs. 67 days (IQR: 42–133; p = 0.001) in non‐White patients. White infants were more likely to undergo HPE (42/50 patients; 84%) compared to non‐White (10/19; 53%), odds ratio (OR) 4.73 (95% confidence interval: 1.46–15.31; p = 0.01). Independent of race, patients exposed to increased neighborhood‐level deprivation were less likely to receive HPE (OR: 0.49, p = 0.04) and achieve SNL (OR: 0.54, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Racial and socioeconomic disparities are independently associated with timely BA diagnosis, access to surgical treatment, and transplant‐free survival. Public health approaches to improve screening for pathologic jaundice in infants of diverse racial backgrounds and to test and implement interventions for socioeconomically at‐risk families are needed.
Characterization of structural and functional properties of soybean 11S globulin during renaturation after denaturation induced by changes in pH
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Can , Ma Chun‐min , Bian Xin , Zou Ling , Fu Yu , Shi Yan‐guo , Wu Yan , Zhang Na
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

This study explored the denaturation of 11S globulin, a protein known for its diverse functional properties in soy protein applications, at pH 3.0 and pH 10.0, followed by a gradual return to pH 7.0 to facilitate renaturation. It investigated the structural and functional changes during renaturation induced by a change in pH, revealing the stabilization mechanism of 11S globulin.

RESULTS

The findings revealed that during pH adjustment to neutral, the denatured soybean 11S globulin – resulting from alkaline (pH 10.0) or acidic (pH 3.0) treatments – experienced a refolding of its extended tertiary structure to varying extents. The particle size and the proportions of α‐helix and β‐sheet in the secondary structure aligned progressively with those of the natural‐state protein. However, for the alkali‐denatured 11S, the β‐sheet content decreased upon adjustment to neutral, whereas an increase was observed for the acid‐denatured 11S. In terms of functional properties, after alkaline denaturation, the foaming capacity (FC) and emulsifying activity index (EAI) of 11S increased by 1.4 and 1.2 times, respectively, in comparison with its native state. The solubility, foamability, and emulsifiability of the alkali‐denatured 11S gradually diminished during renaturation but remained superior to those of the native state. Conversely, these properties showed an initial decline, followed by an increase during renaturation triggered by pH neutralization.

CONCLUSIONS

This research contributes to the enhancement of protein functionality, offering a theoretical foundation for the development of functional soy protein products and expanding their potential applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.