bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of temperature on the healing capacity and mechanical properties of Ti2AlC MAX phase ceramics
Authors: Suh Minji , Lee Dong Heon , Sloof Willem G. , Lee Kee Sung
Published: February 2024

In this study, the self‐healing capacity of Titanium Aluminum Carbide (Ti2AlC, MAX phase) was investigated. Bulk coin samples were fabricated to evaluate the self‐healing capacity at different temperatures (1000, 1200, and 1400°C). The extensive self‐healing capacity of Ti2AlC was confirmed on larger quasiplastic damage (diameter ≥1 mm) and radial cracks by covering and filling of oxides such as titanium oxide, aluminum oxide, and aluminum titanate oxide. Although the mechanical properties of Ti2AlC after healing are similar or improved relative to the Ti2AlC before healing at the microscale, some properties of Ti2AlC after introducing larger damage and healing at 1400°C showed reduced values due to excessive oxide formation on the surface. For example, the strength of Ti2AlC healed at 1400°C exhibited 151.4 MPa, which is relative to the original strength of 298.3 MPa. Alternatively, the mechanical properties such as strength, hardness, toughness, and relative modulus of elasticity of Ti2AlC healed at 1000 or 1200°C and were restored to their original strength after healing. These findings suggest that Ti2AlC can be used as a healing agent for high‐temperature applications, such as environmental barrier coating for gas turbine hot‐gas components.
Skin cancer in renal transplant recipients: outcomes from a safety net hospital in Boston
Authors: Sachedina Dilshad , Gibson Frederick , Xia Eric , Walia Anika , Behara Laxmi , Fazelpour Sherwin , Mullins Haley , Francis Jean , Sahni Debjani
Published: February 2024

Background

Renal transplant recipients (RTRs) are prone to skin cancer due to the immunosuppression required to maintain graft function. Existing studies of skin cancer in RTRs focus on patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I‐II, with limited documentation of incidence in skin types III‐VI. This study seeks to better characterize skin cancers in RTRs with skin types III‐VI.

Primary aims

Compare the incidence of skin cancer in RTRs of skin types I‐II with skin types III‐VI.

Secondary aims

Explore the association between the development of skin cancer and other contributing factors in RTRs of skin types I‐VI.

Methods

Retrospective chart review of RTRs at a single institution between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2022. Patients were followed from the date of transplant to the last clinical follow‐up or death. 777 RTRs were included in the study, including 245 patients with Fitzpatrick skin types I‐II and 532 with skin types III‐VI. A total of 48 patients developed NMSCs, 2 patients developed melanoma, and 3 patients developed Kaposi sarcoma.

Results and conclusions

There is a higher incidence of skin cancer in RTRs with Fitzpatrick skin types III‐VI compared to the reported incidence among non‐transplant recipients of the same skin types, but the incidence remains considerably lower compared to RTR of skin types I‐II.
Pleiotropic immunoregulation by growth‐blocking peptide in Ostrinia furnacalis
Authors: Hu Dongchun , Xu Fuqiang , Gao Zupeng , Chen Kangkang , Guo Wenlong , Wang Zitian , Li Shuzhong , Feng Congjing
Published: February 2024

Insects rely on their innate immune system to eliminate pathogenic microbes. As a system component, cytokines transmit intercellular signals to control immune responses. Growth‐blocking peptide (GBP) is a member of the stress‐responsive peptide family of cytokines found in several orders of insects, including Drosophila. However, the physiological role of GBP in defence against pathogens is not thoroughly understood. In this study, we explored the functions of GBP in a lepidopteran pest, Ostrinia furnacalis. Injection of recombinant O. furnacalis GBP (OfGBP) precursor (proGBP) and chemically synthesised GBP significantly induced the transcription of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and other immunity‐related genes including immune deficiency (IMD) and Dorsal. The level of OfGBP mRNA was upregulated after bacterial infection. Knockdown of OfGBP expression led to a decrease in IMD, Relish, MyD88 and Dorsal mRNA levels. OfGBP induced phenoloxidase activity and affected hemocyte behaviours in O. furnacalis larvae. In summary, GBP is a potent cytokine, effectively regulating AMP synthesis, melanization response and cellular immunity to eliminate invading pathogens.
Assessment of Recycled and Manufactured Adsorptive Materials for Phosphate Removal from Municipal Wastewater
Authors: Drummond Deja , Brink Shannon , Bell Natasha
Published: February 2024

Elevated concentrations of phosphorus (P) and other nutrients common in wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) effluent have been shown to contribute to the proliferation of harmful algal blooms, which may lead to fish kills related to aquatic hypoxia. Increased understanding of the negative effects associated with elevated P concentrations have prompted more strict regulation of WWTP effluent in recent years. The use of low‐cost and potentially regenerative adsorptive phosphate filters has the potential to decrease P concentrations in WWTP effluent released to natural waters. This research focuses on assessing the capacities of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA), expanded slate, and expanded clay to remove phosphate from P‐amended WWTP effluent. Results from a flow‐through column study indicate that RCA consistently removed an average of 97% of phosphate over 20 weeks of continuous flow at an 8‐hour hydraulic retention time (HRT). Expanded clay removed an average of 63% of introduced phosphate but decreased in removal capacity from 91 to 42% over the 20‐week duration. Sorption data from batch studies were fitted to Langmuir models and RCA was shown to have the highest maximum sorption capacity (6.16 mg P/g), followed by expanded clay (3.65 mg P/g). RCA and expanded clay are promising options for use in passive filters for further reduction of phosphate from WWTP effluent.
Changes in Streamflow Statistics and Catchment Land Uses Across Select USGS Gages in Northwest and West‐central Arkansas
Authors: McMullen Timothy , Grantz Erin , Thompson Graham , Haggard Brian E.
Published: February 2024

Since 1901, heavy rainfall events have increased in the United States in both intensity and frequency, and human population in the United States has increased, resulting in significant land use changes. Both trends contribute to an increase in observed flood magnitude and frequency. To determine if a relationship exists between land use/land cover and changing stream flows in northwest Arkansas, this study analyzed temporal changes in various flow statistics for 14 stream gages and compared the rates of change in flow statistics from gages on streams with watersheds that have varying land uses, i.e., urban, agricultural, and undeveloped. Mann‐Kendall analysis was used to determine statistically significant changes in flow statistics, which were then compared to National Land Cover Dataset (NLCD) watershed land uses from 2001 and 2019. All analyzed gages had one or more flow statistics with at least a moderately significant increase, and all analyzed flow statistics showed at least moderately significant streamflow increases at two or more gages (P < 0.100). There were no decreases of any significance in any flow statistic at any gage. In general, urban land development did not happen on native prairies and forests but on previously agricultural land. Significant positive relationships were found between maximum yearly flow and 2019 urban land use, urban land use change from 2001 to 2019, and 2019 Human Development Index (HDI). A similar relationship was found to exist between yearly minimum flow and 2019 HDI. These results highlight the importance of considering the cost of potential stream bank erosion and flooding in future land use planning, permitting, and zoning.
Estimating meaningful change thresholds for Skin Pain‐Numeric Rating Scale, Sleep‐Numeric Rating Scale and Dermatology Life Quality Index in patients with prurigo nodularis
Authors: Stander S. , Kim B. S. , Guillemin I. , Rhoten S. , Wratten S. , Brookes E. , O'Malley J. T. , Bansal A. , Msihid J. , Thomas R. , Bahloul D.
Published: February 2024

Background

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is characterized by intensely itchy nodules/lesions and skin pain, which can have a substantial impact on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). Treatment benefits on such symptoms and impacts are best assessed in trials using patient‐reported outcome (PROs) instruments such as Skin Pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), Sleep‐NRS and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). However, no guidance exists for interpreting meaningful changes in scores using these PROs in patients with PN.

Objectives

The main objective was to derive within‐patient (responder definition) and between‐group improvement thresholds for interpreting Skin Pain‐NRS, Sleep‐NRS and DLQI total scores in patients with PN. The measurement properties of the three PROs were also evaluated.

Methods

Intention‐to‐treat (ITT), blinded and pooled data were used from the Phase 3 PRIME (NCT04183335) and PRIME2 (NCT04202679) studies evaluating the efficacy of dupilumab in adult patients with PN. Anchor‐ and distribution‐based methods were applied to derive responder definition and between‐group thresholds for Skin Pain‐NRS, Sleep‐NRS and DLQI. Data were additionally used to examine the instrument measurement properties, including reliability, validity and responsiveness.

Results

A total of 311 patients (mean age 49.5 years, 65.3% female) were included in the pooled ITT population. The within‐patient improvement threshold for Skin Pain‐NRS was estimated as 4.0 points, 2.0 points for Sleep‐NRS and 9.0 points for DLQI total score. A 1.5‐point improvement in Skin Pain‐NRS scores, 1.0‐point in Sleep‐NRS and 4.0‐point in DLQI indicated a between‐group meaningful change. Adequate to good psychometric properties were demonstrated for all three instruments.

Conclusions

The results of this study can aid interpretation of Skin Pain‐NRS, Sleep‐NRS and DLQI scores in patients with PN in both clinical trials and clinical practice to better understand and treat PN‐related skin pain and the impact of PN on sleep quality and HRQoL.
The role of Cross‐Border alliances in corporate social responsibility: International evidence
Authors: Huang Chenchen , Li Zhe
Published: February 2024

We examine how forming cross‐border alliances with US firms influences the corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance of their foreign partner firms. Analyzing a sample across 39 countries between 2002 and 2018, we find that these foreign firms experience higher future CSR performance, with a notable 6.46% increase compared with those without such alliances. Moreover, this effect is stronger in foreign firms from countries with weaker governance institutions, lower social norms, and worse economic conditions. Also, foreign firms with lower governance quality, higher market competition, and weaker innovation capacity show a pronounced improvement in CSR performance after alliances. The improved CSR performance also leads to higher firm value and better earnings quality in these foreign firms. Overall, we highlight the role of cross‐border alliances in facilitating the attainment of broader economic and sustainable governance objectives.
The Learning Power of Testing
Authors: Kunkel Richard G.
Published: February 2024

For many professors, testing is primarily a tool for assessing the learning of students. However, research into the “testing effect” has established the value of testing also as a learning tool, not just as an assessment tool. This article provides an overview of this research and also of my own experiences in using a variety of testing approaches. Based on these experiences, the article offers a process for adopting testing as a learning tool, along with a review of design choices. By increasing their use of testing in business law instruction, business law professors will improve learning.
Mapping the lipidome in mitochondria‐associated membranes (MAMs) in an in vitro model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Fernandes Tânia , Melo Tânia , Conde Tiago , Neves Bruna , Domingues Pedro , Resende Rosa , Pereira Cláudia F. , Moreira Paula I. , Domingues Maria Rosário
Published: February 2024

The disruption of mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAMs) plays a relevant role in Alzheimer's disease (AD). MAMs have been implicated in neuronal dysfunction and death since it is associated with impairment of functions regulated in this subcellular domain, including lipid synthesis and trafficking, mitochondria dysfunction, ER stress‐induced unfolded protein response (UPR), apoptosis, and inflammation. Since MAMs play an important role in lipid metabolism, in this study we characterized and investigated the lipidome alterations at MAMs in comparison with other subcellular fractions, namely microsomes and mitochondria, using an in vitro model of AD, namely the mouse neuroblastoma cell line (N2A) over‐expressing the APP familial Swedish mutation (APPswe) and the respective control (WT) cells. Phospholipids (PLs) and fatty acids (FAs) were isolated from the different subcellular fractions and analyzed by HILIC‐LC–MS/MS and GC–MS, respectively. In this in vitro AD model, we observed a down‐regulation in relative abundance of some phosphatidylcholine (PC), lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC), and lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LPE) species with PUFA and few PC with saturated and long‐chain FA. We also found an up‐regulation of CL, and antioxidant alkyl acyl PL. Moreover, multivariate analysis indicated that each organelle has a specific lipid profile adaptation in N2A APPswe cells. In the FAs profile, we found an up‐regulation of C16:0 in all subcellular fractions, a decrease of C18:0 levels in total fraction (TF) and microsomes fraction, and a down‐regulation of 9‐C18:1 was also found in mitochondria fraction in the AD model. Together, these results suggest that the over‐expression of the familial APP Swedish mutation affects lipid homeostasis in MAMs and other subcellular fractions and supports the important role of lipids in AD physiopathology.

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How Should We Slice Up the Executive Function Pie? Striving Toward an Ontology of Cognitive Control Processes
Authors: Bunge Silvia A.
Published: February 2024

There is a vast literature on executive functioning, or the control of one's thoughts and actions in pursuit of a goal. This broad construct is conceptualized as comprising multiple executive functions (EFs) that support academic achievement and other important life outcomes. However, there is a lack of consensus regarding what, exactly, these core EFs are. This commentary briefly reviews a few dominant models of EFs in developmental and cognitive psychology and outlines issues to be addressed; it then illustrates how insights from neuroscience could help us eliminate redundant terminology and identify EFs that have been largely overlooked. Reaching a consensus regarding the core set of EFs will inform efforts to scaffold EF development and improve educational outcomes.
Host avian species and environmental conditions influence the microbial ecology of brood parasitic brown‐headed cowbird nestlings: What rules the roost?
Authors: Rudzki Elizabeth N. , Antonson Nicholas D. , Jones Todd M. , Schelsky Wendy M. , Trevelline Brian K. , Hauber Mark E. , Kohl Kevin D.
Published: February 2024

The role of species interactions, as well as genetic and environmental factors, all likely contribute to the composition and structure of the gut microbiome; however, disentangling these independent factors under field conditions represents a challenge for a functional understanding of gut microbial ecology. Avian brood parasites provide unique opportunities to investigate these questions, as brood parasitism results in parasite and host nestlings being raised in the same nest, by the same parents. Here we utilized obligate brood parasite brown‐headed cowbird nestlings (BHCO; Molothrus ater) raised by several different host passerine species to better understand, via 16S rRNA sequencing, the microbial ecology of brood parasitism. First, we compared faecal microbial communities of prothonotary warbler nestlings (PROW; Protonotaria citrea) that were either parasitized or non‐parasitized by BHCO and communities among BHCO nestlings from PROW nests. We found that parasitism by BHCO significantly altered both the community membership and community structure of the PROW nestling microbiota, perhaps due to the stressful nest environment generated by brood parasitism. In a second dataset, we compared faecal microbiotas from BHCO nestlings raised by six different host passerine species. Here, we found that the microbiota of BHCO nestlings was significantly influenced by the parental host species and the presence of an inter‐specific nestmate. Thus, early rearing environment is important in determining the microbiota of brood parasite nestlings and their companion nestlings. Future work may aim to understand the functional effects of this microbiota variability on nestling performance and fitness.
Patient mortality and the neglect of vital signs' assessment: An audit of a national coronial database
Authors: Elliott Malcolm , Williamson Roz , Endacott Ruth
Published: February 2024

Background

Vital signs assessment is critical for patient surveillance and safety. Research has found, however, that this assessment is often neglected in clinical practice. The reasons for this are unclear as few studies have explored this issue. Those studies that have are small, single site studies and found that culture and poor understanding are contributing factors.

Aim

The aim was to explore the link between the clinical neglect of vital signs assessment and patient mortality and provide a better understanding of factors influencing vital signs assessment in the context of acute patient care. Coroners' reports represent an untapped source of information regarding shortfalls in vital signs assessment. Using a framework analysis, an audit was conducted of the Australian National Coronial Information System for cases where vital signs' assessment was mentioned in coronial reports.

Results

Fifty‐eight cases met the eligibility criteria, with deceased patients aged from 7 days to 93 years. Key themes related to absence of reassessment of vital signs, inappropriate delegation, passing responsibility to another staff member and not following policy.

Conclusions

The findings reflect a combination of individual and institutional failings and suggest that vital signs assessment was not considered a priority aspect of care.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Vital signs assessment must be considered an essential aspect of clinical care in all patients. This important aspect of care should be emphasized across all domains of patient care.
Idiopathic scoliosis in subjects with eye diseases: A systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Gallego‐Siles Juan Ramón , Siles‐Fuentes María José , Ibáñez‐Vera Alfonso Javier , Cortés‐Pérez Irene , Obrero‐Gaitán Esteban , Lomas‐Vega Rafael
Published: February 2024

Our aim was to find the best evidence on the prevalence of idiopathic scoliosis (IS) in subjects with eye diseases (EDs) and to determine the most common visual alterations that are present. Following the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA), a bibliographic search up to June 2023 in the PubMed, PsycINFO, SCOPUS, and CINAHL Complete databases was performed. Observational studies were selected and the results were analyzed with prevalence odds ratio (OR). A total of six studies, including 18,396 subjects, were selected. The group of subjects with EDs was made up of 6048 individuals, of whom 655 (10.83%) had IS. The group of subjects without EDs was made up of 12,348 individuals of whom 444 (3.60%) presented with IS with an OR = 2.91, CI (95%) = [1.75, 4.83]. Blindness was assessed in a single study with an OR = 7.83, CI (95%) = [1.66, 36.90]; all three studies in the refractive error subgroup yielded an OR = 2.24, CI (95%) = [1.10, 4.58]; and the two studies that included subjects with strabismus showed an OR = 3.09, CI (95%) = [1.38, 7.00]. EDs were associated with an almost three times greater odds of having IS. We recommend the inclusion of vision testing in children with IS.
Cone‐beam CT imaging for robotic navigation bronchoscopy
Authors: Fielding David , van der Heijden Erik H. F. M.
Published: February 2024

See related article
Why cash grants fail to raise household investment in child education in developing countries
Authors: Adem Jemal Mohammed
Published: February 2024

This study formulates a theoretical framework to shed light on why cash grants fail to increase parental investment in child education, and what can be done to address the issue. The paper asserts that consumption vulnerability, loss aversion, and information friction render lump‐sum cash grants ineffective. Redesigning interventions as demand‐side cost‐sharing schemes would nudge parents to buy educational materials for their children.
Testing magnetic tracers as indicators of sediment transport in a wave flume experiment
Authors: Romão Soraia , Cascalho João , Ferreira Caroline C. , Font Eric , Taborda Rui , Silva Paulo A. , Duarte João F. , Staudt Franziska
Published: February 2024

The in situ measurement of sediment transport in wave‐dominated environments presents significant challenges and currently often relies upon the use of fluorescent sediment tracers. However, this method is constrained by challenges in conducting unbiased and representative sampling, as well as facing overall logistical complexities and labour‐intensive procedures. Whilst other tracer techniques are available, such as using magnetic tracers, their performance in tracking sediment transport has not been quantified. The objective of this study is to assess the effectiveness of magnetic tracers in evaluating net transport rates and tracer dispersal patterns. Conducted in a controlled large wave flume, the experiments simultaneously employed fluorescent and magnetic tracers, allowing a comprehensive comparison of the tracers' dispersion patterns and the net transport rates. Results show that the dispersal of magnetic and fluorescent tracers displays a high degree of spatial coherence in both horizontal and vertical dimensions. Similarly, net transport rates are comparable (<16% difference), both showing net transport in the direction of the wave propagation (towards onshore) driven by non‐linear and streaming effects. Magnetic tracer recovery rate (49%) was lower than for fluorescent tracers (73%) and is attributed to the loss of magnetic ink from particles; an aspect of the magnetic technique that requires improvement. This study therefore indicates that the use of magnetic tracers to quantify sediment transport is an effective method with the advantages of being significantly less labour‐intensive than using the commonly applied fluorescent sediment tracer method.
One‐year anthropometric follow‐up of South African preterm infants in kangaroo mother care: Which early‐life factors predict malnutrition?
Authors: Nel Sanja , Wenhold Friede , Botha Tanita , Feucht Ute
Published: February 2024

Background

Preterm infants often have poor short‐ and long‐term growth. Kangaroo mother care supports short‐term growth, but longer‐term outcomes are unclear.

Methods

This study analysed longitudinally collected routine clinical data from a South African cohort of preterm infants (born <37 weeks gestation) attending the outpatient follow‐up clinic of a tertiary‐level hospital (Tshwane District, South Africa) for 1 year between 2012 and 2019. At 1 year, small‐for‐gestational age (SGA) and appropriate‐for‐gestational age (AGA) infants were compared with regard to age‐corrected anthropometric z‐scores (weight‐for‐age [WAZ], length‐for‐age [LAZ], weight‐for‐length [WLZ] and BMI‐for‐age [BMIZ]) and rates of underweight (WAZ < −2), stunting (LAZ < −2), wasting (WLZ < −2) and overweight (BMIZ> + 2). Multiple regression analysis was used to investigate associations between maternal/infant characteristics and rates of underweight, stunting, wasting and overweight.

Results

At 1 year, compared with AGA infants (n = 210), SGA infants (n = 111) had lower WAZ (−1.26 ± 1.32 vs. −0.22 ± 1.24, p < 0.001), LAZ (−1.50 ± 1.11 vs. −0.60 ± 1.06, p < 0.001), WLZ (−0.66 ± 1.31 vs. 0.11 ± 1.24, p < 0.001) and BMIZ (−0.55 ± 1.31 vs. 1.06 ± 1.23, p < 0.001), despite larger WAZ gains from birth (+0.70 ± 1.30 vs. +0.05 ± 1.30, p < 0.001). SGA infants had significantly more stunting (34.2% vs. 9.1%; p < 0.001), underweight (31.2% vs. 7.2%; p < 0.001) and wasting (12.6% vs. 4.3%, p = 0.012), with no difference in overweight (4.5% vs. 7.7%, p = 0.397). In multiple regression analysis, birth weight‐for‐GA z‐score more consistently predicted 1‐year malnutrition than SGA.

Conclusion

Preterm‐born SGA infants remain more underweight, stunted and wasted than their preterm‐born AGA peers at 1 year, despite greater WAZ gains. Interventions for appropriate catch‐up growth especially for SGA preterm infants are needed.
Enhanced Mixing Towards the Production of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters by In Situ Transesterification of Eucheuma Cottonii: Experimental and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Analysis
Authors: Basir Nor Irwin , Ahmad Zainal , Keat Teong Lee , Navainthran Nisha , Ismail Farzad , Patle Dipesh S
Published: February 2024

Biodiesel is one of the alternative replacements for the conventional fossil fuel-based diesel as the demand for energy is increasing with the increasing world population. The production of biodiesel (also known as fatty acid methyl esters (FAME)) from macroalgae (E. cottonii) is the focus in this study. Conventionally, production of FAME from macroalgae will be carried out through the two-step transesterification processes, which consists of extraction of algal oil (lipids and free fatty acids) and subsequent transesterification step. However, the two-step transesterification method is time and energy consuming processes and thus ways to enhance the production yield of the biodiesel produced are being studied. This paper concentrates on utilization of enhanced mixing technique via in situ transesterification (ISTE) process in FAME production which elucidate the effects of reaction time and mixing intensity. The ISTE reaction was carried out at the ratio of biomass: Methanol (MeOH): Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) (w/v/v) of 1:20:5 and a reaction temperature of 60 °C. The total reaction time for the reaction was 90 minutes, where samples were collected at 30 minutes interval. The increase in reaction time and mixing intensity gave a significant positive impact on the production of FAME. At 90 minutes of reaction time and impeller rotational speed of 900rpm, the maximum amount of methyl palmitate and methyl stearate produced were 0.5729 wt% and 0.0559 wt% respectively. The results of contour of volume fraction (VF) of palmitic acid obtained from Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis from the Aspen Fluent Software is in good agreement to the experimental results of the study.
Oil Palm Leaves Phenotyping using Biomarkers Derived from Raman Spectra
Authors: Herman Mohd Syazwan , Hashim Fazida Hanim , Mohd Zulkifli Zuhaira , Baseri Huddin Aqilah , Salim Ghassan Maan
Published: February 2024

The efficient production of oil from oil palm trees is heavily dependent on their health status, reflected in the oil extraction rate (OER). The 17th frond of the oil palm trees contains a significant amount of organic compounds that directly influence the overall health of the tree. Achieving an optimal balance of essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) is crucial for classifying a tree as healthy, as it results in an increased oil to bunch and fruit to bunch ratio. To accurately assess the health level of oil palm trees, this study explores the application of Raman spectroscopy, a non-invasive technique in determining the molecular fingerprint of an organic sample. In this research, Raman spectroscopy is employed to determine the health level of oil palm trees, and a machine learning-based health level classification algorithm is developed. The algorithm analyzes the organic compounds found in oil palm leaves, which were collected from 20 different trees. The extracted spectral features from these leaves are used to classify them into two health levels: healthy and not healthy. For this purpose, 31 machine learning models are tested to identify the most accurate classifier. The findings reveal that the Tree and fine K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) classifier demonstrates the highest overall accuracy of 95% using three significant features, namely the Raman intensity, Full Width at Half Maximum (FWHM), and area under the curve. This result signifies the potential of Raman spectroscopy as a reliable and promising method for non-invasively phenotyping oil palm leaves, enabling precise prediction of the health status of oil palm trees.
Band Gap Energy of Periodic Anatase TiO2 System Evaluated with the B2PLYP Double Hybrid Functional
Authors: Alias Siti Hajar , Abdul Razak Fazira Ilyana , Chandren Sheela , Loon Leaw Wai , Sahnoun Riadh , Nur Hadi
Published: February 2024

The electronic properties of anatase titanium dioxide (TiO2) materials are of paramount importance for photocatalytic application. Ab initio calculation is performed on anatase TiO2 with various cluster sizes and shape, using Gaussian 09 program employing the standard 6-311G(d) and 3-21G basis set. Hartree-Fock (HF) theory, exchange-functional of density functional theory including hybrid (B3LYP, B3PW91, PBE1PBE and PBEh1PBE) and double-hybrid (B2PLYP), together with 2nd order Møller-Plesset perturbation theory are used to predict the band gap energy of anatase TiO2. With the inclusion of long-range HF exchange, double hybrid B2PLYP functional is able to predict band gap energy value (3.06 eV) which as compared to the experimental value (3.20 eV). Besides, this double hybrid exchange-correlation functional shows good compromise by obtaining an accurate description for cohesive energy of anatase TiO2. Thus, double-hybrid B2PLYP functional is suggested to be a practical choice for predicting the electronic properties for anatase TiO2.
Theoretical Evaluation of YSZ and Alumina-YSZ Thermal Barrier Coatings in a Hydrogen Enriched Combustion Environment
Authors: Salvo Ezekiel , Sahin Murat , Gupta Ashwani
Published: February 2024

Yttria-stabilized zirconia (YSZ) ((ZrO2)0.93(Y2O3)0.07) and alumina-yttria-stabilized zirconia ((Al2O3)0.853 + (ZrO2)0.93(Y2O3)0.07) thermal barrier coatings (TBCs) were modeled in the presence of hydrogen-enriched combustion product gases to evaluate phase composition and thermal expansivity (coefficient of thermal expansion). Thermal equilibrium simulations for various equivalence ratios (0.5–0.75) and hydrogen enrichment percentages (0−50%) were conducted to determine the product gas composition for various combustor operating conditions. The obtained product gases were then used in a second thermal equilibrium simulation to demonstrate their effect on the defined thermal barrier coatings. The modeling predictions showed that hydrogen enrichment percentage and equivalence ratio were positively correlated to thermal expansivity for both the thermal barrier coatings examined. The alumina-YSZ composite coating exhibited a higher CTE, more closely matching the CTE of a metallic bond coat, for the studied conditions. This closer match of thermal expansivity results in less significant thermal stresses than the YSZ thermal barrier coating. An increase in hydrogen enrichment percentage and equivalence ratio yielded increased percentages of phase transitions from tetragonal zirconia (t-ZrO2) to cubic zirconia (c-ZrO2). The YSZ thermal barrier coating had a larger percentage of phase transitions throughout the operating range examined, which renders concerns for potential failure from thermal cycling and creep. Theoretical examination of the phase composition and thermal expansivity provided further insights into the fate and behavior of the thermal barrier coatings.
New records of Phytoseiidae (Acari: Mesostigmata) in New Zealand, with notes on the occurrence status of some species

Authors: Fan Qing-Hai , Ma Min , Zhang Zhi-Qiang
Published: February 2024

This study contributes to the extensive history of research on the family Phytoseiidae in New Zealand, covering nearly a century. We examined phytoseiid specimens in the major repositories, unveiling fifteen species new to New Zealand: Amblyseius andersoni (Chant), A. waltersi Schicha, A. williamsi Schicha, Australiseiulus australicus (Womersley), Euseius elinae (Schicha), Graminaseius graminis (Chant), G. sturti (Schicha), Neoseiulus alpinus (Schweizer), N. californicus (McGregor), N. dieteri (Schicha), N. tareensis (Schicha), Proprioseiopsis anthurii (Schicha), P. cabonus Schicha & Elshafie, P. okanagensis (Chant) and Typhlodromus transvaalensis (Nesbitt), and clarifying the presence or absence status of some species in the country. Additionally, we analysed the diversity and distribution of species in New Zealand, presenting an updated checklist of phytoseiid species in the country.
In search of nuclear stewards
Countdown: The Blinding Future of Nuclear Weapons
Sarah Scoles
Bold Type Books, 2024. 272 pp.
Authors: Hamblin Jacob Darwin
Published: February 2024

A journalist probes the culture and convictions of researchers at US national labs
In Science Journals
Authors: Wong Wei , Walia Ankit , Stajic Jelena , Lopez Bianca , Yeston Jake S. , Funk Michael A. , Grocholski Brent , Scanlon Seth Thomas , Kelly Priscilla N. , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Seale Madeleine , Uzogara Ekeoma , Smith H. Jesse , Norton Melissa L.
Published: February 2024

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
Does fluoride in drinking water risk IQ loss?
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: February 2024

A U.S. federal court is examining a controversial link between fluoride and neurotoxicity
Comprehensive stability analysis of 13 β-lactams and β-lactamase inhibitors in
in vitro
media, and novel supplement dosing strategy to mitigate thermal drug degradation
Authors: Zhou Jieqiang , Qian Yuli , Lang Yinzhi , Zhang Yongzhen , Tao Xun , Moya Bartolome , Sayed Alaa R. M. , Landersdorfer Cornelia B. , Shin Eunjeong , Werkman Carolin , Smith Nicholas M. , Kim Tae Hwan , Kumaraswamy Monika , Shin Beom Soo , Tsuji Brian T. , Bonomo Robert A. , Lee Richard E. , Bulitta Jürgen B.
Published: February 2024

Non-clinical antibiotic development relies on
in vitro
susceptibility and infection model studies. Validating the achievement of the targeted drug concentrations is essential to avoid under-estimation of drug effects and over-estimation of resistance emergence. While certain β-lactams (e.g., imipenem) and β-lactamase inhibitors (BLIs; clavulanic acid) are believed to be relatively unstable, limited tangible data on their stability in commonly used
in vitro
media are known. We aimed to determine the thermal stability of 10 β-lactams and 3 BLIs via LC-MS/MS in cation-adjusted Mueller Hinton broth at 25 and 36°C as well as agar at 4 and 37°C, and in water at −20, 4, and 25°C. Supplement dosing algorithms were developed to achieve broth concentrations close to their target over 24 h. During incubation in broth (pH 7.25)/agar, degradation half-lives were 16.9/21.8 h for imipenem, 20.7/31.6 h for biapenem, 29.0 h for clavulanic acid (studied in broth only), 23.1/71.6 h for cefsulodin, 40.6/57.9 h for doripenem, 46.5/64.6 h for meropenem, 50.8/97.7 h for cefepime, 61.5/99.5 h for piperacillin, and >120 h for all other compounds. Broth stability decreased at higher pH. All drugs were ≥90% stable for 72 h in agar at 4°C. Degradation half-lives in water at 25°C were >200 h for all drugs except imipenem (14.7 h, at 1,000 mg/L) and doripenem (59.5 h). One imipenem supplement dose allowed concentrations to stay within ±31% of their target concentration. This study provides comprehensive stability data on β-lactams and BLIs in relevant
in vitro
media using LC-MS/MS. Future studies are warranted applying these data to antimicrobial susceptibility testing and assessing the impact of β-lactamase-related degradation.
Genome sequences of
Colletotrichum eleusines
and
C. echinochloae
: two pathogens from
Poaceae
weeds
Authors: Gu Qiongnan , Chu Shihai , Huang Qichao , Li Lin , Chen Anan , Hsiang Tom , Li Ruhai
Published: February 2024

We present two whole-genome sequences of
Colletotrichum
strains which were isolated from
Eleusine indica
and
Echinochloa crus-galli
using Nanopore and Illumina technologies, as part of screening for potential mycoherbicide. The genome sequences will provide important genetic information and will be useful for further research into secondary metabolites of
Colletotrichum
.
Submarine volcanism along shallow ridges did not drive Cryogenian cap carbonate formation
Authors: Dutkiewicz Adriana , Müller R. Dietmar
Published: February 2024

The termination of Neoproterozoic “Snowball Earth” glaciations is marked globally by laterally extensive neritic cap carbonates directly overlying glacial diamictites. The formation of these unique deposits on deglaciation calls for anomalously high calcium carbonate saturation. A popular mechanism to account for the source of requisite ocean alkalinity is the shallow-ridge hypothesis, in which initial spreading ridges surrounding fragments of Rodinia, assumed to be dominated by volcanic margins, were formed at sea level. The shallow ridges are inferred to have promoted widespread deposition and alteration of glassy hyaloclastite—a source of alkalinity. We test this hypothesis by quantifying the prevalence of shallow ridges along Pangea's passive continental margins, and by assessing Neoproterozoic reconstructions of tectonic plates. We find that the most frequently occurring depth range for incipient mid-ocean ridges is 2.1 ± 0.4 km. Ridges with initial elevations of approximately sea level are rare and have anomalous crustal thicknesses >14 km that only occur proximal to large igneous provinces (LIPs). Hyaloclastite is uncommon on mid-ocean ridges as it is generally restricted to water depths of <200 m for tholeiitic basalts, instead forming mostly on intraplate seamounts. Additionally, ocean drilling recently found hyaloclastite to be insignificant along the outer Vøring Plateau (offshore Norway)—an exemplar of a volcanic margin. Reconstructions of Rodinia and associated LIPs demonstrate that volcanic margins potentially hosting minor hyaloclastites were scarce during the late Neoproterozoic. We conclude that the shallow-ridge hypothesis fails to explain the formation of cap carbonates and suggest that other mechanisms such as enhanced continental weathering may be largely responsible.
Association between home meal preparers and salt intake in haemodialysis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Uchida Haruna , Hidaka Tomoo , Endo Shota , Kasuga Hideaki , Masuishi Yusuke , Kakamu Takeyasu , Fukushima Tetsuhito
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the association between home meal preparer and salt intake among haemodialysis patients, including daily dietary status. We hypothesised that salt intake is higher among individuals who rely on meal preparation from others than those who prepare meals by themselves.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Two medical facilities in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan.

Participants

237 haemodialysis outpatients who visited one of the medical facilities between February 2020 and August 2021 and were diagnosed with anuria, defined as urination of <100 mL/day, were the potential participants of the present study. Finally, 181 participants (131 male and 50 female) were included in the analysis.

Outcome measure

Salt intake amount was calculated from the results of predialysis and postdialysis blood draws, using Watson’s formula based on predialysis weight, predialysis serum sodium level, postdialysis weight and serum sodium level at the end of dialysis.

Results

Salt intake was significantly higher in participants who relied on meal preparation from others (‘relying on others’) than those who prepared meals by themselves (‘self-prepared’) (B=1.359; 95% CI: 0.495 to 2.222). No statistical difference was found between individuals who ate out or ate takeout (‘outsourcing’) and those who prepared their own meals (‘self-prepared’). These results were robust after adjustment for confounding factors.

Conclusions

The present study revealed an association between self-preparation of meals at home and reduced salt intake among dialysis patients. Our findings suggest that whoever is the home meal preparer is possibly a social determinant of salt intake. To improve the prognosis of haemodialysis patients, actively reaching out to the family and assessing their social environment, such as identifying the home meal preparer and, if the patient relies on others for meal preparation, conducting nutritional/dietary guidance for that person, are effective in enhancing salt reduction.
Adaptive coping strategies among individuals living with long-term chikungunya disease: a qualitative study in Curaçao
Authors: Doran Churnalisa , Duits Ashley J , Gerstenbluth Izzy , Tami Adriana , Bailey Ajay
Published: February 2024

Objective

Long-term chikungunya disease is characterised by persistent rheumatic symptoms following chikungunya virus infection. As there is no specific treatment available, affected individuals need strategies to adapt. However, research on these is scarce. This study aimed to explore which adaptive coping strategies are employed to manage persistent rheumatic symptoms in daily life.

Setting

The study was conducted in Curaçao.

Design and participants

An explorative qualitative study was conducted between September and October 2020, among a purposive sample of adults, 19 women and 4 men affected by long-term chikungunya disease. In-depth interviews were semi-structured and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

The disease duration for all participants ranged between 68 and 74 months (6 years). In narrating their experiences of coping with long-term chikungunya disease, four themes were identified: (1) learning to live with the disease; (2) resilience for dealing with pain; (3) maintaining positive self-image and attitude; and (4) coping through spirituality.

Conclusion

To live with long-term chikungunya disease with dignity in spite of physical pain and discomfort, participants tried to retain a sense of control of oneself and one’s lives, to not let the disease take over, focusing on the positive in their lives, and finding strength and remain hopeful. Interventions such as cognitive–behavioural therapy and mindfulness exercises may be effective in strengthening or regain affected individual’s sense of competence and control by fostering adaptive coping skills and resilience. Subsequently, these interventions may improve health-related quality of life when rheumatic symptoms persist following chikungunya virus infection.
Instruments and indicators for assessing organisational food environments: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Azevedo Ana Beatriz Coelho de , Curioni Cintia Chaves , Bandoni Daniel Henrique , Canella Daniela Silva
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Many studies have explored the food environment to characterise it and understand its role in food practices. Assessment of the organisational food environment can contribute to the development of more effective interventions to promote adequate and healthy eating. However, few instruments and indicators have been developed and validated for assessing this type of setting. The systematisation of those can be useful to support the planning of future assessments and the development of wide-ranging instruments. This study aims to conduct a scoping review to systematise evidence on instruments and indicators for assessing organisational food environments.

Methods and analysis

This scoping review was planned according to the methodological framework for scoping reviews proposed by Arksey and O’Malley and subsequently enhanced by Levacet al. For the report of the review, the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses—Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist and guidelines will be used. The search will be conducted using PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus and Google Scholar databases. The studies to be included were required to have been published in peer-reviewed journals since January 2005. No geographical, population or language restrictions will be applied given the desired breadth of the review. Two researchers will select the articles and extract the data independently. The conceptual model proposed by Castro and Canella will guide the data extraction and analysis. The results will be presented with narrative synthesis for the extracted data accompanying the tabulated and charted results.

Ethics and dissemination

This study is based on the analysis of published scientific literature and did not involve patients, medical research, or any type of personal information; therefore, no ethical approval was obtained for this study. The results of this scoping review will be submitted for publication in an international peer-reviewed journal, preferably open access.
Which aspects of patient experience are the ‘moment of truth’ in the healthcare context: a multicentre cross-sectional study in China
Authors: Chen Xiao , Yuan Jie , Zhao Wenjuan , Qin Wei , Gao Jian , Zhang Yuxia
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine the differential magnitude of associations between specific dimensions of patient experience and overall patient satisfaction.

Design

A descriptive, cross-sectional design was used to collect patient experience and overall satisfaction data.

Setting

Participants were recruited at one tertiary general hospital, one tertiary specialised hospital, and one secondary hospital in Shanghai, China. These three institutes represent the main kinds of hospitals in the Chinese healthcare system.

Participants

1532 inpatients were recruited, and 1469 were included. The inclusion criteria were as follows: (1) having received inpatient service for at least 2 days; (2) able to understand the questions in the questionnaires; and (3) aged>18 years old. Patients who had impaired cognitive function and completed the questionnaires with missing information were excluded.

Primary and secondary outcome measure

Patient experience was measured using the Inpatient Experience with Nursing Care Scale, which is widely used in the China. The overall patient satisfaction was measured with 10-point response option.

Results

The LASSO (least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) regression results showed that as the penalty factor (λ) = 0.0162, age, marriage status, financial status, length of hospital stay and numbers of previous of hospitalisation and six dimensions of nursing care remained in the model. As λ increases to 0.1862, only four patient experience variables, potentially the most influential on patient satisfaction, remained in the model. Patient experience with emotional support was the most significant dimension explaining patient satisfaction (β=0.1564), the second most significant dimension was admission and discharge management (β=0.1562), and the third was monitoring and coping with the progress of diseases (β=0.0613).

Conclusion

Patient experience with emotional support, admission and discharge management, monitoring and coping with the progress of diseases, and information and education are the most significant dimensions explaining patient satisfaction.