bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ex Vivo Evaluation of the Function of Hematopoietic Stem Cells in Toxicology of Metals
Authors: Wu Jiaojiao , Liu Ting , Tang Mengke , Liu Yalin , Wang Wei , Wang Chuanxuan , Ju Yingzi , Zhao Yifan , Zhang Yubin
Published: July 2024

A variety of metals, e.g., lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and lithium (Li), are in the environment and are toxic to humans. Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) reside at the apex of hematopoiesis and are capable of generating all kinds of blood cells and self‐renew to maintain the HSC pool. HSCs are sensitive to environmental stimuli. Metals may influence the function of HSCs by directly acting on HSCs or indirectly by affecting the surrounding microenvironment for HSCs in the bone marrow (BM) or niche, including cellular and extracellular components. Investigating the impact of direct and/or indirect actions of metals on HSCs contributes to the understanding of immunological and hematopoietic toxicology of metals. Treatment of HSCs with metals ex vivo, and the ensuing HSC transplantation assays, are useful for evaluating the impacts of the direct actions of metals on the function of HSCs. Investigating the mechanisms involved, given the rarity of HSCs, methods that require large numbers of cells are not suitable for signal screening; however, flow cytometry is a useful tool for signal screening HSCs. After targeting signaling pathways, interventions ex vivo and HSCs transplantation are required to confirm the roles of the signaling pathways in regulating the function of HSCs exposed to metals. Here, we describe protocols to evaluate the mechanisms of direct and indirect action of metals on HSCs. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

This article was corrected on 18 July 2024. See the end of the full text for details.

Basic Protocol 1: Identify the impact of a metal on the competence of HSCs

Basic Protocol 2: Identify the impact of a metal on the lineage bias of HSC differentiation

Basic Protocol 3: Screen the potential signaling molecules in HSCs during metal exposure

Alternate Protocol 1: Ex vivo treatment with a metal on purified HSCs

Alternate Protocol 2: Ex vivo intervention of the signaling pathway regulating the function of HSCs during metal exposure
Orsay Virus Infection in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Batachari Lakshmi E. , Sarmiento Mario Bardan , Wernet Nicole , Troemel Emily R.
Published: July 2024

Orsay virus infection in the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans presents an opportunity to study host‐virus interactions in an easily culturable, whole‐animal host. Previously, a major limitation of C. elegans as a model for studying antiviral immunity was the lack of viruses known to naturally infect the worm. With the 2011 discovery of the Orsay virus, a naturally occurring viral pathogen, C. elegans has emerged as a compelling model for research on antiviral defense. From the perspective of the host, the genetic tractability of C. elegans enables mechanistic studies of antiviral immunity while the transparency of this animal allows for the observation of subcellular processes in vivo. Preparing infective virus filtrate and performing infections can be achieved with relative ease in a laboratory setting. Moreover, several tools are available to measure the outcome of infection. Here, we describe workflows for generating infective virus filtrate, achieving reproducible infection of C. elegans, and assessing the outcome of viral infection using molecular biology approaches and immunofluorescence. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of Orsay virus filtrate

Support Protocol: Synchronize C. elegans development by bleaching

Basic Protocol 2: Orsay virus infection

Basic Protocol 3: Quantification of Orsay virus RNA1/RNA2 transcript levels by qRT‐PCR

Basic Protocol 4: Quantification of infection rate and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) fluorescence intensity

Basic Protocol 5: Immunofluorescent labeling of dsRNA in virus‐infected intestinal tissue
Pecan Aphid Complex and Their Management
Authors: Barman Apurba , Acharya Rajendra , Veerlapati Shivakumar
Published: July 2024

Pecan production in the U.S. is primarily divided into two production regions: the southwestern region and the southeastern region. One insect pest complex is common to both production regions—pecan aphids. Growers regularly make insecticide applications to manage these aphids every year. The pecan aphid complex is represented by three aphid species: yellow pecan aphid, the blackmargined aphid, and the black pecan aphid. This article will discuss some of the important aspects of pecan aphids in relation to their management in commercial pecan orchards. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Modified plant‐derived exosomes: Precision medicine in cancer treatment
Authors: Maitra Swastika , Sarkar Subham , Dhara Bikram
Published: July 2024

Plant‐derived exosomes (PDEs) are extracellular vesicles (EVs) occurring naturally,which have propitious applications in the development of cost‐effective and fruitful cancer therapy with minimum aftereffects and ramifications. Recent advancements in research based on PDEs demonstrate their extraordinary advantages in cancer therapy. The components of PDEs exhibit accomplished cancer prevention activity and having insignificant or negligible toxicity. The conventional methods to deliver drugs to the target have various problems, several of which can be solved by using PDEs for drug delivery. The main constituents of PDEs are proteins, lipids, DNA and RNA. PDEs are believed to revolutionize cancer therapy due to their magnificent attributes, but only a few clinical trials on PDEs are in progress. The mechanisms and regulations by which PDEs execute anticancer properties are yet not completely understood. Hence, research are conducted worldwide to understand the mechanisms of action of cancer antagonist PDEs more comprehensively and perspicuously. Modified PDEs have prospect in evolution of precision medicine which can bring a new dimension in the treatment of cancer.
KMT2D‐mediated H3K4me1 recruits YBX1 to facilitate triple‐negative breast cancer progression through epigenetic activation of c‐Myc
Authors: Yao Bing , Xing Mengying , Zeng Xiangwei , Zhang Ming , Zheng Que , Wang Zhi , Peng Bo , Qu Shuang , Li Lingyun , Jin Yucui , Li Haitao , Yuan Hongyan , Zhao Quan , Ma Changyan
Published: July 2024

Background

Lysine methyltransferase 2D (KMT2D) mediates mono‐methylation of histone H3 lysine 4 (H3K4me1) in mammals. H3K4me1 mark is involved in establishing an active chromatin structure to promote gene transcription. However, the precise molecular mechanism underlying the KMT2D‐mediated H3K4me1 mark modulates gene expression in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) progression is unresolved.

Methods and Results

We recognized Y‐box‐binding protein 1 (YBX1) as a “reader” of the H3K4me1 mark, and a point mutation of YBX1 (E121A) disrupted this interaction. We found that KMT2D and YBX1 cooperatively promoted cell growth and metastasis of TNBC cells in vitro and in vivo. The expression levels of KMT2D and YBX1 were both upregulated in tumour tissues and correlated with poor prognosis for breast cancer patients. Combined analyses of ChIP‐seq and RNA‐seq data indicated that YBX1 was co‐localized with KMT2D‐mediated H3K4me1 in the promoter regions of c‐Myc and SENP1, thereby activating their expressions in TNBC cells. Moreover, we demonstrated that YBX1 activated the expressions of c‐Myc and SENP1 in a KMT2D‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that KMT2D‐mediated H3K4me1 recruits YBX1 to facilitate TNBC progression through epigenetic activation of c‐Myc and SENP1. These results together unveil a crucial interplay between histone mark and gene regulation in TNBC progression, thus providing novel insights into targeting the KMT2D‐H3K4me1‐YBX1 axis for TNBC treatment.

Highlights

YBX1 is a KMT2D‐mediated H3K4me1‐binding effector protein and mutation of YBX1 (E121A) disrupts its binding to H3K4me1.

KMT2D and YBX1 cooperatively promote TNBC proliferation and metastasis by activating c‐Myc and SENP1 expression in vitro and in vivo.

YBX1 is colocalized with H3K4me1 in the c‐Myc and SENP1 promoter regions in TNBC cells and increased YBX1 expression predicts a poor prognosis in breast cancer patients.
An effective metaheuristic based optimized type‐II fuzzy inference system for fault node identification in wireless sensor network
Authors: Chakraborty Sujay , Raghuvanshi Ajay Singh
Published: July 2024

Deploying a wireless sensor network (WSN) for accessing the network of distant environments is more crucial. Node defect detection is a core technology of WSN and is essential for most WSN networks. The defective node reduces the overall service quality (OSQ) of the global WSN network system. Therefore, a type II fuzzy inference system (T2_FIS) is proposed for detecting defective nodes in the WSN network. The adaptive genetic algorithm (AGA) and proposed method are introduced for tuning the parameters in the T2_FIS system. The proposed T2_FIS method effectively detects the broken node in the WSN network using the fuzzy rules. In addition, the improved Mud Ring (IMR) optimization algorithm is proposed to replace the faulty node with the neighborhood node in the network. The defective nodes are identified and replaced with the closest nodes based on the membership function (MF) generated by the T2_FIS. Furthermore, the lifetime and throughput of the WSN network are increased by minimizing energy consumption. The overall performance is evaluated using the MATLAB tool, and the implementation results are compared with the existing methods. The total energy consumption for the proposed method is 50.451, with a throughput and lifetime of 153.657 and 22979.25. Furthermore, the performance metrics for the existing and proposed strategies are analyzed, and the accuracy of the proposed method is proven to be 99.3827%, the false alarm rate (FAR) is 0.0008, and the false positive rate (FPR) is 0.0617. The results show the effectiveness and performance of the proposed method.
Ultra‐miniaturized and angularly stable symmetric polarization insensitive frequency selective surface for electromagnetic shielding
Authors: Mondal Kalyan , Bag Biplab , Murmu Lakhindar
Published: July 2024

This research work presents a miniaturized enhanced angular and polarization stability frequency selective surface (FSS) structure at 660 MHz for electromagnetic (EM) shielding of 4G LTE networks. The vias and spiral‐shaped subunit cells are combined to extend the electrical path length corresponding to the lower resonant frequency. The symmetric structure is considered to improve polarization and angular stability. Two symmetric metallic layers are etched on both sides of the FR4 substrate with thickness
and relative permittivity
. Four steps are adopted to improve miniaturization and stability (angular and polarization). The dimension of the unit cell is
. The figure of merit is also improved to
, where
is the largest free space wavelength and P is the periodicity of the proposed structure. The proposed band‐stop FSS is more angularly stable as a figure of merit for various incidence angles under transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) polarizations. Simulation and measurement have been done to confirm the polarization insensitivity and maximum angular stability of 80°.
Omega‐3 blood biomarkers relate to brain glucose uptake in individuals at risk of Alzheimer's disease dementia
Authors: Lázaro Iolanda , Grau‐Rivera Oriol , Suárez‐Calvet Marc , Fauria Karine , Minguillón Carolina , Shekari Mahnaz , Falcón Carles , García‐Prat Marina , Huguet Jordi , Molinuevo José Luis , Gispert Juan‐Domingo , Sala‐Vila Aleix ,   for the ALFA study
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Brain glucose hypometabolism is a preclinical feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Dietary omega‐3 fatty acids promote brain glucose metabolism, but clinical research is incipient. Circulating omega‐3s objectively reflect their dietary intake.

METHODS

This was a cross‐sectional study in 320 cognitively unimpaired participants at increased risk of AD dementia. Using lipidomics, we determined blood docosahexaenoic (DHA) and alpha‐linolenic (ALA) acid levels (omega‐3s from marine and plant origin, respectively). We assessed brain glucose metabolism using [18‐F]‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET).

RESULTS

Blood ALA directly related to FDG uptake in brain areas known to be affected in AD. Stronger associations were observed in apolipoprotein E ε4 carriers and homozygotes. For DHA, significant direct associations were restricted to amyloid beta–positive tau‐positive participants.

DISCUSSION

Blood omega‐3 directly relate to preserved glucose metabolism in AD‐vulnerable brain regions in individuals at increased risk of AD dementia. This adds to the benefits of omega‐3 supplementation in the preclinical stage of AD dementia.

Highlights

Blood omega‐3s were related to brain glucose uptake in participants at risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) dementia.

Complementary associations were observed for omega‐3 from marine and plant sources.

Foods rich in omega‐3 might be useful in early features of AD.
Analytical and behavioral characterization of 1‐hexanoyl‐LSD (1H‐LSD)
Authors: Brandt Simon D. , Kavanagh Pierce V. , Gare Sarah , Stratford Alexander , Halberstadt Adam L.
Published: July 2024

The development of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) derivatives and analogs continues to inform the design of novel receptor probes and potentially new medicines. On the other hand, a number of newly developed LSD derivatives have also emerged as recreational drugs, leading to reports of their detection in some countries. One position in the ergoline scaffold of LSD that is frequently targeted is the N1‐position; numerous N1‐alkylcarbonyl LSD derivatives have been reported where the acyl chain is attached to the indole nitrogen, for example, in the form of linear n‐alkane substituents, which represent higher homologs of the prototypical 1‐acetyl‐N,N‐diethyllysergamide (1A‐LSD, ALD‐52). In this study, 1‐hexanoyl‐LSD (1H‐LSD, SYN‐L‐027), a novel N1‐acyl LSD derivative, was characterized analytically using standard techniques, followed by evaluation of its in vivo behavioral effects using the mouse head‐twitch response (HTR) assay in C57BL/6J mice. 1H‐LSD induced the HTR, with a median effective dose (ED50) of 192.4 μg/kg (equivalent to 387 nmol/kg), making it roughly equipotent to ALD‐52 when tested previously under similar conditions. Similar to other N1‐acylated analogs, 1H‐LSD is anticipated to by hydrolyzed to LSD in vivo and acts as a prodrug. It is currently unknown whether 1H‐LSD has appeared as on the research chemical market or is being used recreationally.
New method for taxonomic descriptions with coded notation, producing dynamic and interchangeable output
Authors: Zeppelini Douglas , de Oliveira‐Neto Misael Augusto , de Oliveira João Victor Lemos Cavalcante , Ferreira Aila Soares , de Brito Roniere Andrade , Lopes Bruna Carolline Honório , Brito Nathan Paiva , Stievano Luis Carlos , de Lima Estevam Cipriano Araujo
Published: July 2024

A proposal for taxonomic species description notation is presented to replace the traditional descriptive texts for a coded matrix, avoiding redundant adjectives and subjective descriptions. This is an attempt to enhance the species description rate and to make the descriptions output available to other scientific disciplines, machine learning, interactive and computer‐assisted identification keys, metadata analysis and its applications. The method consists of presenting the description of the overall morphology in a coded matrix, following a character list with detailed observed conditions for each character. The method is dynamic and open to amendments and new data addition as they become available. We test the new method describing five new species of Collembola Symphypleona of the genus Pararrhopalites as a generalized model and made the coded output available. We conclude that a coded taxonomic description is an advance to the traditional taxonomic text, with potential to enhance the global descriptions rate. The generated descriptions are dynamic, expandable and can be easily used in other fields of science, allowing non‐experts to access the data for phylogenetic, biogeographic, ecological studies and metadata analysis. Even though an experienced taxonomist will always be necessary to make a detailed taxonomic description, it is a step forward to a general template to semi‐automated taxon recognition and to future development of auxiliary tools for species description using machine learning and templates to speed up the time‐consuming phase of schematic figures preparation, after the expert interpretations are done.
Initial combination therapy with macitentan and tadalafil in patients with pulmonary arterial hypertension, with and without cardiac comorbidities
Authors: McLaughlin Vallerie V. , Sitbon Olivier , Chin Kelly M. , Galiè Nazzareno , Hoeper Marius M. , Kiely David G. , MacDonald Gwen , Martin Nicolas , Mathai Stephen C. , Peacock Andrew , Tawakol Ahmed , Torbicki Adam , Noordegraaf Anton Vonk , Rosenkranz Stephan
Published: July 2024

Aims

According to current guidelines, initial monotherapy should be considered for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) patients with cardiopulmonary comorbidities. This analysis of combined data from the TRITON and REPAIR clinical trials, assesses efficacy and safety of initial double combination therapy in patients without vs. with 1–2 cardiac comorbidities.

Methods and results

Data were combined for patients from TRITON (NCT02558231) and REPAIR (NCT02310672) on initial macitentan and tadalafil double combination therapy (overall set, n = 148) and two subgroups defined as patients without cardiac comorbidities (n = 62) and those with 1–2 cardiac comorbidities (n = 78). Patients with ≥3 comorbidities were excluded from these studies. For the overall set, the median (Q1–Q3) duration of combined macitentan and tadalafil exposure was 513.0 (364.0–778.0) days, and was similar between subgroups. Change from baseline to Week 26 for pulmonary vascular resistance was −55% and −50% for patients without and with 1–2 cardiac comorbidities, respectively; marked improvements in other hemodynamic and functional parameters were also observed, although functional parameters improved to a lesser extent in patients with comorbidities. At Week 26, the majority of patients had improved PAH risk status, according to the non‐invasive four‐strata and REVEAL Lite 2.0 methods. The safety profile of initial macitentan plus tadalafil combination therapy was consistent with the known profiles of the two drugs, and similar between the subgroups.

Conclusions

Initial double combination therapy with macitentan plus tadalafil is efficacious in patients with PAH with 1–2 cardiac comorbidities and those without, with similar safety and tolerability profiles between the two groups.
Physiological characteristics predictive of passing military physical employment standard tasks for ground close combat occupations in men and women
Authors: Feigel Evan D. , Sterczala Adam J. , Krajewski Kellen T. , Sekel Nicole M. , Lovalekar Mita , Peterson Patrick A. , Koltun Kristen J. , Flanagan Shawn D. , Connaboy Chris , Martin Brian J. , Wardle Sophie L. , O’Leary Thomas J. , Greeves Julie P. , Nindl Bradley C.
Published: July 2024

Challenges for some women meeting the physical employment standards (PES) for ground close combat (GCC) roles stem from physical fitness and anthropometric characteristics. The purpose of this study was to identify the modifiable and nonmodifiable characteristics predictive of passing GCC‐based PES tasks and determine the modifiable characteristics suitable to overcome nonmodifiable limitations. 107 adults (46 women) underwent multiday testing assessing regional and total lean mass (LM), percent body fat (BF%), aerobic capacity (V̇O2peak), strength, power, and PES performance. Predictors with p‐value <0.200 were included in stepwise logistic regression analysis or binary logistic regression when outcomes among sexes were insufficient. Relative and absolute arm LM (OR: 4.617–8.522, p < 0.05), leg LM (OR: 2.463, p < 0.05), and upper body power (OR: 2.061, p < 0.05) predicted medicine ball chest throw success. Relative and absolute arm LM (OR: 3.734–11.694, p < 0.05), absolute trunk LM (OR: 2.576, p < 0.05), and leg LM (OR: 2.088, p < 0.05) predicted casualty drag success. Upper body power (OR: 3.910, p < 0.05), absolute trunk LM (OR: 2.387, p < 0.05), leg LM (OR: 2.290, p < 0.05), and total LM (OR: 1.830, p < 0.05) predicted maximum single lift success. Relative and absolute arm LM (OR: 3.488–7.377, p < 0.05), leg LM (OR: 1.965, p < 0.05), and upper body power (OR: 1.957, p < 0.05) predicted water can carry success. %BF (OR: 0.814, p = 0.007), V̇O2peak (OR: 1.160, p = 0.031), and lower body strength (OR: 1.059, p < 0.001) predicted repeated lift and carry success. V̇O2peak (OR: 1.540, p < 0.001) predicted 2‐km ruck march success. Modifiable characteristics were the strongest predictors for GCC‐based PES task success to warrant their improvement for enhancing PES performance for women.
Key steps and barriers in the journey of patients with epilepsy through the National Healthcare System in Spain: The EPIPASS qualitative study
Authors: Poza Juan José , Gobbo Milena , Palanca Cámara María ,   FEDE, Pérez‐Domper Paloma , Aledo‐Serrano Ángel ,   the EPIPASS Group
Published: July 2024

Objective

Epilepsy requires continuous medical attention from multiple healthcare specialists, specialized facilities, and community‐based care. In Spain, there is no standardized approach to epilepsy care. The aim of this study was to identify the factors impacting on the delivery of high‐quality care by exploring key steps and barriers along the patient journey through the Spanish National Healthcare System (NHS).

Methods

A qualitative study was conducted using opinions and experiences of neurologists, nurses, patients, and caregivers shared in discussion meetings. Using thematic content analyses, relevant aim‐focused statements were coded according to prespecified issues in a discussion map (i.e., key steps and barriers), and sub‐coded according to emerging issues. Thematic saturation and co‐occurrence of key steps/barriers were evaluated to identify the most relevant factors impacting on the delivery of high‐quality care.

Results

Sixty‐five stakeholders took part in discussion meetings (36 neurologists, 10 nurses, 10 patients, and nine caregivers). Six key steps on the patient journey were identified: emergency care, diagnosis, drug therapy, follow‐up, referral, and interventional treatment. Of these, follow‐up was the most relevant step impacting on the delivery of high‐quality patient care, followed by drug therapy and diagnosis. Emergency care was considered a hot‐spot step with impact throughout the patient journey. Communication (among HCPs and between HCPs and patients) was a barrier to the delivery of high‐quality care at several stages of the patient journey, including drug therapy, follow‐up, referral, and interventional treatment. Resource availability was a barrier for diagnosis (especially for confirmation), drug therapy (drug availability), and referral (lack of professionals and specialized centers, and long waiting lists).

Significance

This is the first study capturing perspectives of four key stakeholders involved in epilepsy care in Spain. We provide an overview of the patient journey through the Spanish NHS and highlight opportunities to improve the delivery of patient‐centered care with a chronicity perspective.

Plain Language Summary

Patients with epilepsy may require prolonged medical care. In Spain, care is provided by a range of specialist and non‐specialist centers. In this study, a team of Spanish neurologists, nurses, patients and caregivers identified barriers that affect the delivery of high‐quality care for patients with epilepsy at each stage of their journey through the Spanish NHS. Specific epilepsy training for healthcare providers, appropriate resources for diagnosing and treating patients, and good communication between healthcare workers and patients were identified as important factors in providing high‐quality care for patients with epilepsy.
Techno‐economic assessment of photovoltaic along with battery power supply for health centers
Authors: Ngusie Samuel Degarege , Rufo Derara Duba
Published: July 2024

In developing countries, electrical power distribution networks are often inadequate, particularly in small health centers. As a result, the electrical energy supplied by the grid is frequently interrupted. The productivity and quality of service delivered by these health centers to the people who live in these areas are severely affected by this issue. This issue can be resolved by incorporating battery storage systems along with renewable energy sources into the distribution system. The direct delivery of energy to customers is greatly aided by these renewable energy supplies. Partially, the grid supports such a system on a limited scale to guarantee the continuity of the energy supply. This study tried to resolve the problem due to these frequent power outages and its economic expenditures. To address the illustrated challenges, we tried to renovate the diesel generator with a solar and battery energy supply. The PVsyst software shows the average global solar radiation in the selected zone is. The annual energy demand for Gedeo health centers in 2023 is 3.32 MWH and the proposed PV‐battery hybrid system has a 10.95 MWH capacity. Moreover, when we utilize a diesel generator the Capital cost (CC), Net present cost (NPC), levelized cost of energy (LCOE), and payback period are 12 452.25$, 13 369.12$, 0.1$, and 10.7 years respectively. The economic assessment result of the proposed system is 4083$, 4727$, 0.059$, and 3.8 years consecutively. In southern Ethiopia, the annual emission from diesel generators alone, excluding the emission from the vehicles is close to 692 tons. Consequently, from the empirical economic assessment the installed solar energy is 90% more beneficial than the existing system.
Utilization of carbon‐black industry waste to synthesize electrode material for supercapacitors
Authors: Singh Akshita , Srivastava Vimal Chandra , Janowska Izabela
Published: July 2024

Solid waste utilization in synthesizing porous carbon materials for supercapacitor electrodes has been a fast‐progressing research domain in past decades. Different types of agricultural and industrial waste have the potential to act as a precursor supply for carbon with porous structures. In this study, the waste generated from a furnace‐grade conductive carbon black manufacturing industry was utilized to synthesize porous carbon through pyrolysis at 400°C for 2 hours, followed by chemical activation at 800°C for 1 hour. Different activating agents, precisely, potassium hydroxide, orthophosphoric acid, and zinc chloride, were used. Similar activation conditions as well as the mass ratio of activating agent to sample (4:1), were maintained to make a comparative study. All three samples were then tested in a three‐electrode set‐up through cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge/discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy for their performance as electrode material for supercapacitors with a mass loading of 4.0 mg/cm2 in 1 M Na2SO4 electrolyte. The largest specific capacitance was obtained for the KOH‐activated sample, that is, 21.3 F/g, followed by 17.9 F/g for H3PO4 activated sample and 13.7 F/g for the ZnCl2‐activated sample, at a scan rate of 50 mV/s. Though the obtained capacitance is much smaller for its practical application, the study acts as a base for further modifications and upgrades to utilize this high carbon‐containing waste in energy storage.
Effects of Harmful Algal Blooms on Amphibians and Reptiles are Under-Reported and Under-Represented
Authors: Tornabene Brian J. , Smalling Kelly L. , Hossack Blake R.
Published: July 2024

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a persistent and increasing problem globally, yet we still have limited knowledge about how they affect wildlife. Although semi-aquatic and aquatic amphibians and reptiles have experienced large declines and occupy environments where HABs are increasingly problematic, their vulnerability to HABs remains unclear. To inform monitoring, management, and future research, we conducted a literature review, synthesized the studies, and report on the mortality events describing effects of cyanotoxins from HABs on freshwater herpetofauna. Our review identified 37 unique studies and 71 endpoints (no-observed-effect and lowest-observed-effect concentrations) involving 11 amphibian and 3 reptile species worldwide. Responses varied widely among studies, species, and exposure concentrations used in experiments. Concentrations causing lethal and sublethal effects in laboratory experiments were generally 1 to 100 µg/L, which contains the mean value of reported HAB events but is 70 times less than the maximum cyanotoxin concentrations reported in the environment. However, one species of amphibian was tolerant to concentrations of 10,000 µg/L, demonstrating potentially immense differences in sensitivities. Most studies focused on microcystin-LR (MC-LR), which can increase systemic inflammation and harm the digestive system, reproductive organs, liver, kidneys, and development. The few studies on other cyanotoxins illustrated that effects resembled those of MC-LR at similar concentrations, but more research is needed to describe effects of other cyanotoxins and mixtures of cyanotoxins that commonly occur in the environment. All experimental studies were on larval and adult amphibians; there were no such studies on reptiles. Experimental work with reptiles and adult amphibians is needed to clarify thresholds of tolerance. Only nine mortality events were reported, mostly for reptiles. Given that amphibians likely decay faster than reptiles, which have tissues that resist decomposition, mass amphibian mortality events from HABs have likely been under-reported. We propose that future efforts should be focused on seven major areas, to enhance our understanding of effects and monitoring of HABs on herpetofauna that fill important roles in freshwater and terrestrial environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1936–1949. Published 2024. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Exploring the potential of dual‐metallized PET towards improving the efficiency of outermost reflective layer in fire proximity clothing
Authors: Dwivedi Shivangi , Srivastava Richa , Kumar Roy Prasun
Published: July 2024

The outermost layer of a fire proximity suit needs to conform to a strict requirement of radiant protection performance (RPP) ≥ 20s, which is indicative of its ability of offering a protection for at least 20s duration from second degree burn upon radiant heat exposure (84 kW/m2). Typically, this layer is fabricated by laminating a single‐side metallized PET (SMPET) layer with glass fabric. However, upon erosion of the deposited metal, this laminate is rendered unsuitable due to loss of reflectivity. Here, we explore the possibility of replacing the SMPET with its dual‐metallized analogue (DMPET) and determine the effect of increasing the optical density (OD) on the adherence and protection level. Metallized films with OD varying from 2.2 to 4.8 were laminated with glass fabrics of twill, satin and plain weave pattern using a silicone adhesive. The peel adhesion strength of laminates prepared using DMPET was found to be higher (1.01 ± 0.03 N/mm), as compared to SMPET (0.63 ± 0.03 N/mm) and the resulting films did not undergo delamination during flexing. Laminates prepared from satin woven glass fabric exhibited lowest flexural rigidity followed by twill and plain woven glass fabric. Protection offered by the laminate from convective heat was quantified in terms of the thermal protective performance (TPP), and the abraded laminate prepared using DMPET (OD‐4.8) was found to meet all the mandatory requirements of proximity clothing, offering an RPP of 27 s and a TPP of 62 cal/cm2 s. In comparison, SMPET laminates exhibited lower level of adhesion and offered an RPP of only 7.5 s.
Time and futures. Analysis of time‐needs in futures research
Authors: Virmajoki Veli , Laakkonen Mika‐Petri
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses temporalities in futures research in terms of a novel notion of time‐need. It is argued that this notion contributes to the theoretical and critical discussion about time in futures research. The paper uses as an illustrative case study a railway transportation system to highlight how different actors within a system have unique temporal needs that shape their perceptions, actions, and relation to the future. The authors discuss the interplay of power, control, utilization, and the strategic manipulation of temporal information. This paper argues for a novel conceptual approach to temporal phenomena that can be used to (i) understand and plan a technological system better, but also (ii) provide critical reflection on the power and control implicit in such systems. Moreover, the paper suggests that futures research as a field has its own time‐needs that shape how it approaches the future. Recognizing these time‐needs enables a more nuanced understanding of futures research. Scenarios, knowledge, and power are all intimately related to time.
Making Polluters Pay: Vermont and New York Setting the Stage for Climate Mitigation Funding
Authors: Cartwright Echo D.
Published: July 2024

The concept of making “polluters pay” for environmental damages is not a novel concept, and in fact is based on the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), enacted by the U.S. Congress on December 11, 1980. Referred to as the “Superfund Law,” CERCLA allowed the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to: (1) established prohibitions and requirements concerning closed and abandoned hazardous waste sites; (2) provided for liability of persons responsible for releases of hazardous waste at these sites; and (3) established a trust fund to provide for cleanup when no responsible party could be identified. Hence the term “Superfund.” This program has been responsible for the cleanup of literally hundreds of federally listed hazardous waste sites across the country since its inception, the most notable likely being Love Canal in New York State, and the efforts by the infamous Erin Brockovich.
Association between depression and incident dementia: Longitudinal findings from the share study
Authors: Veronese Nicola , Smith Lee , Koyanagi Ai , Soysal Pinar , Mueller Christoph , Errera Chiara Maria , Vassallo Giusy , Vernuccio Laura , Catanese Giuseppina , Solmi Marco , Dominguez Ligia J. , Barbagallo Mario
Published: July 2024

Background

The association between depression and dementia is still unclear, particularly regarding depression as a potential risk factor preceding dementia. Therefore, we aimed to verify if the presence of depression at baseline may increase the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment during 15 years of follow‐up in the SHARE (Survey of Health, Aging and Retirement in Europe) study.

Methods

Depressive symptoms were defined using the EURO‐D, with a score ≥4 indicative of depression. Incident dementia was ascertained using self‐reported data and caregivers' information, cognitive impairment using objective cognitive tests. Cox regression analysis, adjusted for 10 baseline confounders, was run and hazard ratios (HRs), with their 95% confidence intervals, were estimated.

Results

In total 22,789 participants were included in the present analysis (mean age 64.2 years) and were predominantly female. The prevalence of depression at baseline was 24.9%. Over 15 years of follow‐up, the onset of dementia occurred a median 2 years earlier in people with depression compared to those without. Depression at the baseline significantly increased the risk of dementia in the overall sample (HR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.54–1.95) and the risk of cognitive impairment (HR = 1.15; 95% CI: 1.06–1.25). For dementia, the association was stronger in people less than 60 years (HR = 2.07; 95% CI: 1.42–3.02) than in participants aged ≥80 years (HR = 1.47; 95% CI: 1.14–1.91). A similar trend was observed for cognitive impairment. Among the single items of the EURO‐D, loss of concentration was the strongest individual variable predicting the onset of dementia.

Conclusions

Depression increased the risk of dementia and cognitive impairment, particularly in younger adults, whereas loss of concentration was the strongest individual predicting variable of dementia. These findings demonstrate the need for early detection of depression for preventing future cognitive worsening.
Earlier routine induction of labor—Consequences on mother and child morbidity
Authors: Gregersen Maria Koch
Published: July 2024

A growing number of birth interventions had led to a concern for potential health consequences. This study investigates the consequences of earlier routine labor induction. It exploits a natural experiment caused by the introduction of new Danish obstetric guidelines in 2011. Consequently, routine labor induction was moved forward from 14 to 10–13 days past the expected due date (EDD) and extended antenatal surveillance was introduced from 7 days past the EDD. Using administrative data, I find that affected mothers on average had a 9–11 percentage points (32%–38%) higher risk of being induced the following years. Yet, mother and child short‐ and medium‐term morbidity were largely unaffected.
Biological relapse in multiple myeloma: Outcome and treatment strategies in a Spanish real‐world setting
Authors: Alegre Adrián , Gironella Mercedes , Escalante Fernando , Bergua Juan M. , Martínez‐Chamorro Carmen , López Aurelio , González Esther , Bárez Abelardo , Somolinos Nieves , Persona Ernesto P. , Cabrera Alexia S. , Soler Alfons , Rodríguez Belén I. , López Joaquín M. , González Yolanda , Giménez Verónica C. , Sampol Antonia , Muñoz Carolina , Vilanova David , Durán Marta , Fernández de Larrea Carlos ,   Spanish Myeloma Group (GEM_PETHEMA)
Published: July 2024

Recommendations regarding the best time to start treatment in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma (RRMM) after biological relapse/progression (BR) are unclear. This observational, prospective, multicenter registry aimed to evaluate the impact on time to progression (TTP) of treatment initiation at BR versus at symptomatic clinical relapse (ClinR) based on the Spanish routine practice in adult patients with RRMM. Patients had two or less previous treatment lines and at least one previous partial response. Baseline characteristics and treatment outcomes were recorded, and survival was analyzed. Of 225 patients, 110 were treated at BR (TxBR group) and 115 at ClinR (TxClinR group) according to the investigators' criteria. The proportion of patients with higher ECOG, previous noncomplete remission (CR), and second relapse were significantly higher in the TxBR group compared to the TxClinR group. TheTxClinR group showed improved outcomes, including TTP, compared to the TxBR group. Progression‐free survival increased in the TxClinR group (56.2 months) compared to the TxBR group (32.5 months) (p = 0.0137), and median overall survival also increased (p = 0.0897). Median TTP was significantly longer in patients relapsing from a CR (50.4 months) and in their first relapse (38.7 months) compared to those relapsing from a non‐CR response (32.9 months) and in their second relapse (25.2 months). Physicians seemed to start treatment earlier in RRMM patients with poor prognosis features. Previous responses to anti‐MM treatment and the number of prior treatment lines were identified as prognosis factors, whereby relapse from CR and first relapse were associated with a longer time to progression.
Fluorinated‐Thiolate Osmium(III) and Osmium(IV) Complexes Bearing N,N‐diethyldithiocarbamate and Substituted Phosphines. Synthesis, Crystal Structures and DFT‐Studies
Authors: Anzaldo Bertín , Álvarez‐García Andrés , Bernès Sylvain , Ramírez‐Monroy Armando , Arroyo‐Carranza Maribel
Published: July 2024

The paramagnetic osmium(III) [Os(SRF)(S2CNEt2)2(P(C6H4X‐4)3)] (RF=C6F4H−4, C6F5; X=OCH3, CH3, F) (1–6) along with diamagnetic osmium(IV) [Os(SRF)2(S2CNEt2)2] (7–8) complexes were obtained from [Os(SRF)4(P(C6H4‐X)3)] and NaS2CNEt2, which were characterized by FAB mass spectrometry, IR spectroscopy, single crystal X‐ray diffraction, and for the diamagnetic 7 also by NMR. TD‐DFT calculations were performed to simulate the absorption spectra of complexes. In the visible region, LMCT transitions contribute to the calculated intensities, which are somewhat related to the color of the synthesized compounds. In the ultraviolet region, the phosphine ligand plays a significant role in MLCT transitions, which results in Os(III) complexes exhibiting an intense band in that region. Topological analysis and electron localization function (ELF) maps calculated for 6 and 7 confirm the strong ionic character of the Os−S coordination bonds formed by the thiophenolate and dithiocarbamate ligands. This comprehensive study provides information on the structure, bonding, and electronic properties of osmium complexes, for potential applications in catalysis, materials science, and biological systems.
Polypill versus medication monotherapy in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases in Iran: An economic evaluation study
Authors: Ravangard Ramin , Ghanbari Mohadese , Attar Armin , Jafari Abdosaleh
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are one of the major diseases in developing and developed countries and have high prevalence and mortality rates. Pharmacological interventions, especially the use of combination medications, can have preventive effects in patients with CVDs. Recently, in the PolyIran trial, a combination of atorvastatin, hydrochlorothiazide, aspirin, and valsartan or enalapril (Polypill) was shown to be effective in providing survival benefits as a primary prevention strategy. In the present study, we examine the cost‐effectiveness of the use of polypill compared to its individual components (named as medication monotherapy) in the prevention of CVDs in Iran.

Methods

This was an economic evaluation study conducted to compare the cost‐utility of polypill with that of medication monotherapy for 10,000 hypothetical cohorts of people over 35 years of age using the Markov model and with a lifetime horizon. The study perspective was patient perspective and direct medical costs, quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs), and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio were estimated. To deal with uncertaintysensitivity analyses were used.

Results

The results showed that polypill, with the lowest costs (871 USD) and highest QALYs (14.55), had the most cost‐utility than medication monotherapy. Also, the results showed that the highest sensitivities were related to the utilities of angina and stroke states. At the 21,768 USD threshold, polypill had a 92% probability of being cost‐effective versus other medications.

Conclusion

Considering that polypill had the most cost‐utility, it is suggested that health system policymakers pay special attention to polypill in designing clinical guidelines. Also, through covering this medication by health insurance organizations, it is possible to complete the country's medicine pharmacopeia in preventing CVDs.
Aqueous decoupling batteries: Exploring the role of functional ion‐exchange membrane
Authors: Li Shuyue , Wang Lujing , Li Xiaoman , Jiang Heng , Du Fei
Published: July 2024

The relentless pursuit of sustainable and safe energy storage technologies has driven a departure from conventional lithium‐based batteries toward other relevant alternatives. Among these, aqueous batteries have emerged as a promising candidate due to their inherent properties of being cost‐effective, safe, environmentally friendly, and scalable. However, traditional aqueous systems have faced limitations stemming from water's narrow electrochemical stability window (~1.23 V), severely constraining their energy density and viability in high‐demand applications. Recent advancements in decoupling aqueous batteries offer a novel solution to overcome this challenge by separating the anolyte and catholyte, thereby expanding the theoretical operational voltage window to over 3 V. One key component of this innovative system is the ion‐selective membrane (ISM), acting as a barrier to prevent undesired crossover between electrolytes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in decoupling aqueous batteries, emphasizing the application of various types of ISMs. Moreover, we summarize different specially designed ISMs and their performance attributes. By addressing the current challenges ISMs face, the review outlines potential pathways for future enhancement and development of aqueous decoupling batteries.

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Impact assessment of the adaptation of modernization to the Indian agrarian society: Empirical evidence from the Haraiya Block of Azamgarh District, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Rani K. M. Reetu , Dubey Alok Kumar , Anjum Mahvish
Published: July 2024

Agriculture, the mainstay of the rural economy in India, is changing due to globalization, which brings both opportunities and challenges for farmers. This study aimed to explore the degree of adaptation to modernization and challenges in rural society engaged in agricultural activities in Azamgarh District of Eastern Uttar Pradesh. A total of 300 farmers were selected randomly and surveyed across 10 villages in the Haraiya Block. Data analysis was based on Karl Pearson's correlation, Likert scale and Z‐score techniques. The findings of this study reveal that global change has a direct impact on rural society. However, in some villages, a lack of knowledge about modern equipment and the proper use of insecticides and fertilizers are major constraints that hamper the efficiency of farmers. The majority of farmers are unable to access membership in various farmer associations. Caste barriers have loosened, but due to indebtedness and economic uncertainty, family disintegration rates have dramatically increased in some areas. Farmers tend to change their occupations and migrate to other places for better opportunities. Policy recommendations include the following: The government should take the initiative to enhance farmers' local participation and grassroots‐level development by formulating farmer‐friendly policies and programmes.
Carbamic acid and its dimer: A computational study
Authors: Puzzarini Cristina , Alessandrini Silvia
Published: July 2024

A recent work by Marks et al. on the formation of carbamic acid in NH‐CO interstellar ices pointed out its stability in the gas phase and the concomitant production of its dimer. Prompted by these results and the lack of information on these species, we have performed an accurate structural, energetic and spectroscopic investigation of carbamic acid and its dimer. For the former, the structural and spectroscopic characterization employed composite schemes based on coupled cluster (CC) calculations that account for the extrapolation to the complete basis set limit and core correlation effects. A first important outcome is the definitive confirmation of the nonplanarity of carbamic acid, then followed by an accurate estimate of its rotational and vibrational spectroscopy parameters. As far as the carbamic acid dimer is concerned, the investigation started from the identification of its most stable forms. For them, structure and vibrational properties have been evaluated using density functional theory, while a composite scheme rooted in CC theory has been employed for the energetic characterization. Our results allowed us to provide a better interpretation of the feature observed in the recent experiment mentioned above.