bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology and properties of carbon black‐filled thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) composites based on hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber and thermoplastic polyester elastomer
Authors: Cui Ziwen , Jing Yuanrong , Liu Lianxu , Liu Yingjun , Du Aihua
Published: September 2024

The unique morphology of thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs) reveals a significant correlation between the microstructure and performance, and the development of high‐performance TPV composites for specialized applications has become a current research priority. This study is devoted to developing heat‐ and oil‐resistant TPV composites filled with carbon black (CB) based on hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) and thermoplastic polyester elastomer (TPEE) following the masterbatch procedure of dynamic vulcanization. Herein, it focuses on the effects of CB content on the morphology, filler network structure, and properties of the TPV/CB composites. As observed by morphological studies, CB nanoparticles are interconnected and aggregated to form a dual network structure of rubber and CB particles in the composite. With the increasing CB content, it's demonstrated that dual networks have enhanced and shifted to rigid. Consequently, the hardness, thermal stability, and oil resistance of TPV/CB composites are improved, with a 104% elevation in the stress at 300% strain. The flowability in the molten state, toughness (the elongation at break decreased from 690% to 310%), and elasticity deteriorated by oversized (0.5 ~ 1.2 μm) CB agglomerates and rigid rubber particles. This study gives new insight into the microstructure‐properties relationship of TPVs, offering theoretical guidance for fabricating HNBR‐based TPV composites.
A DNA Aptamer for 2‐Aminopurine: Binding‐Induced Fluorescence Quenching
Authors: Datta Meheta , Liu Juewen
Published: September 2024

2‐Aminopurine (2AP) is a fluorescent analog of adenine, and its unique properties make it valuable in various biochemical and biotechnological applications. Its fluorescence property probes local dynamics in DNA and RNA because stacking with the surrounding bases quench its fluorescence. 2AP‐labeled DNA or RNA sequences have been used for the detection of genetic mutations, viral RNA, or other nucleic acid‐based markers associated with diseases like cancer and infectious diseases. In this study, we isolated aptamers for 2AP using the library immobilization capture‐SELEX technique. A dominating aptamer family was isolated after 15 rounds of selection. The Kd values for the most abundant 2AP1 aptamer are 209 nM in a fluorescence assay and 72 nM in an isothermal titration calorimetry test. A 32 nM 2AP limit of detection was tested based on its intrinsic fluorescence change upon aptamer binding. Additionally, we conducted some mutation analysis. Furthermore, we tested the selectivity of this aptamer and discovered that it can bind adenine and adenosine with approximately 100‐fold lower affinity than 2AP.
Improvement of fluorescence properties by surface modification of CdS‐ZnS quantum dots by thiol compounds and its application as a sensitive fluorescence probe for copper ion detection
Authors: Ghasemi Seyfollah , Samadi‐Maybodi Abdolraouf
Published: September 2024

The capped CdS‐ZnS quantum dots (QDs) were synthesized with various thiol capping agents of glycolic acid (TGA), mercaptosuccinic acid (MSA), and L‐cysteine (LCY) and used as fluorescence probe for determination of Cu (II) ions. The method of two‐level three‐factor full‐factorial experiment design was used to achieve the best optical fluorescence emission. Results revealed that Cu (II) ions can effectively quench the emission of QDs, and the fluorescence intensity is linearly decreased with increasing Cu (II) ion concentration. The limit of detection for CdS‐ZnS@ QDs capped with TGA, MSA, and LCY was obtained at 1.15 × 10−7, 1.32 × 10−7, and 2.19 × 10−7 mol L−1, respectively, with linear dynamic range of 3.13 × 10−6 to 1.41 × 10−4 mol L−1. Luminescence quantum yields of CdS‐ZnS@LCY, CdS‐ZnS@MSA, and CdS‐ZnS@TGA were obtained at 4.17, 1.92, and 2.47, respectively. Results indicated that no significant quenching occurred in the presence of the other metal ions. The binding constant (Kb) of capped CdS‐ZnS@ QDs with Cu2+ and the other metal ions was also investigated and discussed. The Kb value for Cu2+ was obtained considerably more than that the other ions. This work presents a new and sensitive method for determination of Cu2+ ion.
High Content Screening Assay of Inhibitors of the Legionella Pneumophila Histone Methyltransferase RomA in Infected Cells
Authors: Barbachowska Magdalena , Harivel Thomas , Nicchi Sonia , Danckaert Anne , Ghazarian Marine , Chiaravalli Jeanne , Buchrieser Carmen , Rolando Monica , Arimondo Paola B.
Published: September 2024

Resistance to anti‐microbial agents is a world‐wide health threat. Thus, there is an urgent need for new treatments. An alternative approach to disarm pathogens consists in developing drugs targeting epigenetic modifiers. Bacterial pathogens can manipulate epigenetic regulatory systems of the host to bypass defences to proliferate and survive. One example is Legionella pneumophila, a Gram‐negative intracellular pathogen that targets host chromatin with a specific, secreted bacterial SET‐domain methyltransferase named RomA. This histone methyltransferase specifically methylates H3 K14 during infection and is responsible for changing the host epigenetic landscape upon L. pneumophila infection. To inhibit RomA activity during infection, we developed a reliable high‐content imaging screening assay, which we used to screen an in‐house chemical library developed to inhibit DNA and histone methyltransferases. This assay was optimised using monocytic leukemic THP‐1 cells differentiated into macrophages infected with L. pneumophila in a 96‐ or 384‐well plate format using the Opera Phenix (Perkin Elmer) confocal microscope, combined with Columbus software for automated image acquisition and analysis. H3 K14 methylation was followed in infected, single cells and cytotoxicity was assessed in parallel. A first pilot screening of 477 compounds identified a potential starting point for inhibitors of H3 K14 methylation.
Versatile and Efficient Protein Association Through Chemically Modified Sphingomyelin Nanosystems (SNs) for Enhanced Delivery
Authors: Abal‐Sanisidro Marcelina , Nieto‐García Olaia , Cotelo‐Costoya Cristina , de la Fuente María
Published: September 2024

Proteins are biological macromolecules well known to regulate many cellular signaling mechanisms. For instance, they are very appealing for their application as therapeutic agents, presenting high specificity and activity. Nonetheless, they suffer from unfolding, instability and low bioavailability making their administration through systemic and other routes very tough. To overcome these drawbacks, drug delivery systems and nanotechnology have arisen to deliver biomolecules in a sustained manner while, at the same time, increasing dose availability, protecting the cargo without compromising proteins’ bioactivity, and enhancing intracellular delivery. In this work, we proposed the optimization of sphingomyelin nanosystems (SNs) for the delivery of a wide collection of proteins (ranging from 10–500 kDa and pI) using diverse chemical association strategies. We have further characterized SNs by varied analytical methodologies. We have also carried out in vitro experiments to validate the potential of the developed formulations. As the final goal, we aim to obtain evidence of the potential use of SNs for the development of protein therapeutics.
Synthesis of Substituted Acyclic and Cyclic N‐Alkylhydrazines by Enzymatic Reductive Hydrazinations
Authors: Borlinghaus Niels , Calabrese Donato , Lauterbach Lars , Nestl Bettina M.
Published: September 2024

Imine reductases (IREDs) provide promising opportunities for the synthesis of various chiral amines. Initially, asymmetric imine reduction was reported, followed by reductive aminations of aldehydes and ketones via imines. Herein we present the reductive amination of structurally diverse carbonyls and dicarbonyls with hydrazines (reductive hydrazination), catalyzed by the IRED from Myxococcus stipitatus. In analogy to IRED‐catalyzed reductive aminations, various carbonyls and dicarbonyls could react with simple hydrazines to produce substituted acyclic and cyclic N‐alkylhydrazines. By incorporating and scaling up a hydrogenase cofactor regeneration system, we demonstrated the scalability and atom‐efficiency of an H2‐driven double reductive hydrazination, highlightling the potential of IREDs in biocatalysis.
Gliosarcoma associated with bilateral hippocampal sclerosis in a cat presenting complex partial seizures with orofacial involvement: A case report
Authors: Martinez Ana , Binks Sophie , Pumarola Martí , Hardas Alexandros , Easton Alistair , Campo Leticia , Browne Molly , Martins Susana , Garosi Laurent S. , Di Dona Francesco , Tauro Anna
Published: September 2024

Key Clinical Message

Gliosarcoma, a rare cerebral neoplasm, has not been linked to hippocampal changes in cats. We report a case of complex partial seizures with orofacial involvement, revealing gliosarcoma concurrent with bilateral hippocampal sclerosis.

A 16‐year‐old neutered female domestic shorthair cat presented with acute inappetence, ataxia, disorientation, and vacant staring. Brain MRI revealed an ill‐defined, round, intra‐axial mass in the right piriform lobe, showing hyperintensity on T2W, T2‐FLAIR, and T2*W, and hypointensity on T1W images. The lesion exhibited mass effect and contrast enhancement in its center. Bilateral hyperintensity on T2‐FLAIR images and contrast enhancement were observed in the hippocampus. Brain histologic and immunohistochemical analysis revealed cerebral gliosarcoma with concurrent hippocampal sclerosis. Feline LGI1‐antibody testing on the serum and/or CSF was not performed due to insufficient biomaterial. Although retrospective testing on brain tissue was considered, it ultimately proved unfeasible, preventing us from ruling out antibody‐associated limbic encephalitis. In conclusion, cerebral gliosarcoma should be included in feline intracranial tumor differentials, warranting brain MRI and feline LGI1‐antibody testing in cats showing complex partial seizures with orofacial involvement. In our case, the prognosis remained poor due to the presence of a high‐grade glioma.
Epoxidation at Isolated Titanium Site Modeled by Ti‐Siloxy‐Polyoxometalates Built on [α–A–XW9O34]n− and [α–B–YW9O33]9−: Comparative Study of Their Hydrolytic Stability
Authors: K/Bidi Ludivine , Solé‐Daura Albert , Zhang Teng , Desjonquères Alix , Poblet Josep M. , Proust Anna , Carbó Jorge J. , Guillemot Geoffroy
Published: September 2024

This report investigates the structural differences in a series of titanium complexes constructed from silanol functionalized polyoxometalate (SiloxPOMs) derivatives, designed to create a constrained coordination site for titanium (IV) cations, namely (THA)3[PW9O34(tBuSiO)3Ti(OiPr)] and (THA)3[SbW9O33(tBuSiO)3Ti(OiPr)]. The complexes serve as structural and functional models for titanium silicates, facilitating the epoxidation of allylic alcohols and alkenes by aqueous hydrogen peroxide solutions. The different activity and selectivity observed between the two derivatives are attributed to variations in the polyoxotungstic platform used, A‐type–[XW9O34]n− versus B‐type –[YW9O33]3−. A combined experimental and theoretical investigation highlights the influence of these structural differences on water interaction and hydrolytic stability, with A‐type structures proving more susceptible to hydrolysis. In addition, the study also delves into the nuclearity of the active sites, a monomeric titanium (IV)‐hydroperoxide [Ti]–(OOH) active species evidenced by diffusion NMR spectroscopy, and the influence of the presence of water on catalytic performance in epoxidation reaction, thus shedding light on the relationship between catalyst stability, intermediates formed and reaction pathway. The study finally demonstrates the suitability of B‐type SiloxPOM derivatives as models for titanium silicates, offering insights into their stability and catalytic activity for epoxidation reactions.
Ionomeric Binders for High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells
Authors: Xing Ruiyang , Yu Yaqin , Li Nanwen , Geng Kang , Tang Hongying
Published: September 2024

High‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell (HT‐PEMFC) based on phosphoric acid doped polybenzimidazole membrane (PBI/PA) operating at 120–200 °C can provide insensitivity to carbon monoxide (CO) and simplified managements of water and heat and thus attract significant global attention. However, one significant drawback is its low utilization of precious metal catalysts resulted from the PA poisoning and inefficient three‐phase boundary. Studies of binder materials in catalyst layers for HT‐PEMFC are gradually emerging and there are few literature reviews on this important topic. The purpose of this review is to describe the various types of binders based on their molecular structure and electrochemical properties, with particular emphasis on catalyst layer for fuel cells. Importantly, this review provides a better understanding of relationship between fuel cell performance and the gas permeability and conductivity of different binders. Then, future directions of research and development in binder materials of HT‐PEMFC are pointed out.
Green‐Light Hydrosilylation Photocatalysis with Platinum(II)Metalla‐N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Complexes
Authors: Kashina Maria V. , Luzyanin Konstantin V. , Katlenok Eugene A. , Kinzhalov Mikhail A.
Published: September 2024

Platinum(II) metalla‐N‐heterocyclic carbene complexes featuring pyridyl heterocyclic moiety demonstrate remarkable catalytic efficiency in alkyne hydrosilylation under green light irradiation. The photocatalytic properties of complexes are rationalised by the photo‐induced charge transfer occurring in extended condensed system identified with the help of various experimental (UV/vis and emission spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry) and theoretical methods (DFT/TD‐DFT, IFCT analysis).
Skeleton Rearranged and Oxygenated ent‐Rosane Diterpenoids with Antiadipogenic Activity from Euphorbia milii
Authors: Song Qin‐Qin , Guo Yue , Sun Peng , Fan Yao‐Yue , Ji Kai‐Long
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Five unreported and oxygenated ent‐rosane diterpenoids (ent‐RDs), Euphomillanols A—E (1—5), were isolated from Euphorbia milii. Among them, compounds 1 and 2 are unprecedented 7/7/6‐fused tricyclic 5,10‐seco‐ent‐RDs and possess a unique 11‐oxabicyclo[4.4.1]undeca‐1(10),5‐diene moiety, while 3 is characterized by a 1‐methyl‐6‐oxabicyclo[3.2.1]oct‐2‐ene motif of ring A. Their structures with absolute configurations were unambiguously determined by the extensive spectroscopic methods, X‐ray crystallography, and ECD calculation. Putative biosynthetic pathways for compounds 1—3 are proposed. All compounds exhibited antiadipogenic effects in 3T3‐L1 adipocytes, and the most potent compound 4 showed an EC50 value of 3.92 μmol/L with low cytotoxicity (IC50 > 89.54 μmol/L).
Searching for studies: A guide to information retrieval for Campbell systematic reviews
Authors: MacDonald Heather , Comer Cozette , Foster Margaret , Labelle Patrick R. , Marsalis Scott , Nyhan Kate , Premji Zahra , Rogers Morwenna , Splenda Ryan , Stansfield Claire , Young Sarah
Published: September 2024

This guide outlines general issues in searching for studies; describes the main sources of potential studies; and discusses how to plan the search process, design, and carry out search strategies, manage references found during the search process and document and report the search process.
Rice Straw Biochar as an Effective Support for Pd Nanoparticles for Ethanol Electro‐Oxidation Reaction in Alkaline Condition
Authors: Villanueva Matthew L. , Laxamana Justienne Rei P. , Necesito Hannah Grace G. , Garcia Jonyl L. , Tongol Bernard John V.
Published: September 2024

Herein, we report the utilization of biochar derived from rice straw (RSB) as an effective support matrix for Pd nanoparticles and its application as an electrocatalyst for ethanol electro‐oxidation (EEO) in an alkaline medium. Rice straw, a common agricultural byproduct, was pyrolyzed at 600 °C, 700 °C, and 800 °C under N2 atmosphere. Pd was loaded onto the RSB via borohydride reduction of Pd2+, with a nominal loading of 20 % Pd. Spectroscopic and morphological characterization revealed the formation of dispersed Pd nanoparticles on the RSB surface. Pyrolysis temperature was observed to influence both the porosity of the resulting RSB and the dispersion and degree of exposure of Pd nanoparticles deposited on the surface. Electrochemical characterization revealed that Pd/RSB could be a potential EEO electrocatalyst for direct ethanol fuel cell applications. Pd/RSB‐700 exhibited better performance in terms of EEO forward mass activity (jf) and forward and backward mass activity (jf/jb) ratio relative to Pd/RSB‐600 and Pd/RSB‐800. Moreover, Pd/RSB was shown to be superior to commercial Pd on carbon black in terms of electrochemical stability. This study opens the potential of rice straw biochar as a sustainable and environmentally friendly carbon‐based support matrix for Pd‐based EEO electrocatalysts.
Propagation Characteristics of Electrostatic Surface Plasma Waves at the Spin‐Polarized Quantum Plasma–Vacuum Interface
Authors: Adnan Muhammad , Nazir Muhammad , Ikramullah  , Khattak Fida Younus
Published: September 2024

This investigation explores the characteristics of electrostatic surface plasma waves within the framework of a spin‐polarized quantum plasma. Utilizing the spin‐polarized quantum hydrodynamic model and incorporating essential elements like Fermi pressure and Bohm potential, we derive the dispersion relation governing surface plasma waves at a plasma–vacuum interface. Through Fourier decomposition of the hydrodynamic model, we establish the dispersion relation that outlines the behavior of surface plasmons under conditions of small amplitude. Quantum effects, encompassing degenerate pressure, and Bohm potential are considered with specific attention given to the spin polarization effect, treating spin up, and spin down electrons as distinct species. The resulting dispersion relation demonstrates that, regardless of the degree of spin matching, Bohm potential significantly alters the phase speed in the limit of a large wave vector. Increasing spin mismatch in the quantum plasma leads to a decrease in the phase speed of the surface mode for a fixed value of the plasmonic coupling parameter . Our findings bear relevance to graphene‐based plasmonic systems, aligning with some of the observations reported in Gao et al. (2013) and Guo et al. (2019).
Energy‐efficient optimal sink placement using extended pelican optimization‐based clustering with Voronoi‐based node deployment
Authors: Abdur Rahman Narayanasami , Shankarlal Balraj , Sivarajan Sankarapandian , Sharmila Pandian
Published: September 2024

A wireless sensor network (WSN) is a network of spatially distributed autonomous sensor nodes that collaborate to monitor physical or environmental conditions, collect data, and transmit it to a sink node. WSNs have a wide range of applications across various domains due to their ability to provide real‐time data collection, remote monitoring, and data analysis. Still, in a WSN with a fixed sink, sensor nodes closer to the sink tend to have higher traffic loads because they forward data to nodes further away. This can lead to hotspots and uneven energy consumption. Introducing a mobile sink can distribute the traffic more evenly across the network, reducing congestion and balancing the energy consumption among nodes. Hence, this research proposes a novel WSN environment with a focus on energy‐efficient routing. The network is deployed using Voronoi‐based criteria to address network coverage issues. The clustering of nodes is employed using the proposed extended pelican optimization (ExPo) algorithm to improve network lifetime and energy efficiency, critical concerns in WSNs due to limited sensor node battery capacity. Cluster heads (CHs) aggregate and process data locally, reducing the energy needed for long‐range communication. Then, an energy‐efficient optimal sink placement (EEOSP) approach is used to optimize the placement of the mobile sink. The proposed system model is evaluated based on various metrics, including average residual energy, delay, network lifetime, packet delivery ratio, and throughput and acquired the values of 0.99 J, 3.68 ms, 99.55%, 99.55%, and 81 Mbps, respectively.
Mesopredators have differing influences on prey habitat use and diel activity in a multipredator landscape
Authors: Palomo‐Munoz Gabriela , Fidino Mason , Werdel Ty J. , Piper Colleen W. , Gallo Travis , Peek Matthew S. , Ricketts Andrew M. , Ahlers Adam A.
Published: September 2024

Resource distribution, habitat structure, and predators greatly influence spatial and temporal landscape use by prey species. The “risky places” hypothesis establishes prey will proactively respond to predators' presence based on habitat cues, whereas the “risky times” hypothesis predicts prey will reactively respond by increasing vigilance in the presence of predators regardless of habitat cues. We fit a multiscale, Bayesian species interaction occupancy model with detection/non‐detection data to evaluate black‐tailed jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) and eastern cottontail rabbit (Sylvilagus floridanus) habitat use in the presence and absence of coyotes (Canis latrans), American badgers (Taxidea taxus), and swift foxes (Vulpes velox). We also evaluated how species‐specific predator presence modified temporal activity patterns of prey. Jackrabbits decreased habitat use in areas with greater forage and opted to use areas with greater visibility when coyotes or swift foxes were present. However, cottontails used habitat in open areas with greater visibility when American badgers were present and all other predators absent, suggesting dissimilar habitat‐use patterns dictated by predator‐specific risks. Both lagomorph species are nocturnal with segregated peaks of activity compared with predators, suggesting fine‐scale temporal use partitioning. Our results provide insights into predator–prey dynamics across heterogenous landscapes in a multi‐predator system.
Parasitic plants regulate C and N distribution among common mycorrhizal networks linking host and neighboring plants
Authors: Yuan Yongge , Han Cheng , Wang Jiani , Li Junmin
Published: September 2024

Common mycorrhizal networks (CMNs) can link multiple plants and distribute nutrients among them. However, how parasitic plants regulate the carbon and nutrient exchange between CMNs and the linked plants is unknown. Thus, we conducted a container experiment with two Trifolium pratense grown in two plastic cores and connected only by CMNs using a 25‐μm nylon fabric in each container. Host T. pratense was parasitized or not parasitized by Cuscuta gronovii. CMNs were left intact or broken by rotating the cores with the host or neighboring T. pratense. The dual 15N and 13C labeling method was used to evaluate the N distributed by CMNs to the host and neighboring T. pratense and the recently fixed C from the host and neighboring T. pratense to CMNs. The results showed that CMNs distributed more 15N to unparasitized neighboring T. pratense than the parasitized host T. pratense. Moreover, the unparasitized neighboring T. pratense provides more recently fixed C to CMNs than the parasitized host T. pratense. These results revealed that the parasite regulated C and nutrient exchange between CMNs and the linked plants following the reciprocal rewards rule. Moreover, this study highlights the importance of parasitic plants in the regulation of mutualistic interactions in ecological webs.
Intravenous lacosamide for acute repetitive seizures and convulsive status epilepticus in critically ill children
Authors: Hsiao Man‐Ru , Tsai Tzu‐Cheng , Hsia Shao‐Hsuan , Chan Oi‐Wa , Lee En‐Pei , Lin Jainn‐Jim , Lin Kuang‐Lin
Published: September 2024

Objective

Acute repetitive seizures and convulsive status epilepticus are common neurological emergencies in critically ill children. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of intravenous lacosamide in critically ill children with acute repetitive seizures and convulsive status epilepticus.

Methods

This retrospective study included children who received intravenous lacosamide for acute repetitive seizures or convulsive status epilepticus from October 2017 to September 2022 and were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit at a tertiary medical center. Children who were newly started on intravenous lacosamide were included and divided into two groups: (a) previously healthy, and (b) history of epilepsy and receiving antiseizure medications. Efficacy was defined as the cessation of seizures within 72 h of administering lacosamide. Adverse effects were defined using predefined criteria, and most were evaluated during the first 7 days.

Results

Sixty‐seven children were enrolled, including 25 (37.3%) girls and 42 (62.7%) boys with a mean age of 7.20 ± 5.66 years. Among them, 30 (44.8%) had acute repetitive seizures, and 37 (55.2%) had convulsive status epilepticus. The seizure types were focal onset (n = 34, 50.7%), generalized onset (n = 27, 40.3%), and mixed type (n = 6, 9.0%). In the previously healthy group, 9 patients had acute repetitive seizures and 23 had convulsive status epilepticus, and the rates of seizure cessation when lacosamide was used as the first to fourth choice of antiseizure medication were 100.0%, 85.7%, 40.0%, and 50.0%, respectively, compared to 73.7%, 54.5%, 100.0%, and 0.0% in the patients with epilepsy (21 had acute repetitive seizures and 14 had convulsive status epilepticus). Sixteen (23.9%) patients developed bradycardia and 1 (1.5%) patient developed a rash.

Significance

The early use of intravenous lacosamide was effective with acceptable side effects in treating acute repetitive seizures and convulsive status epilepticus in critically ill children, including young infants and children less than 4 years old and those with different etiologies.

Plain Language Summary

Acute repetitive seizures and convulsive status epilepticus are common neurological emergencies in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), traditional intravenous antiseizure medications (ASMs) include phenytoin, valproic acid, levetiracetam, and phenobarbital. In this study, we categorized patients based on their epilepsy history and different etiologies. We observed that early use of lacosamide, even in young infants, demonstrated good efficacy and safety.
Optimal Scheduling of Renewable Sources Based Micro Grid With PV and Battery Storage Using Crayfish Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Bhol Subrat , Sahu Nakul Charan
Published: September 2024

Environmental concerns and energy security are pressing issues of the 21st century, with a heavy reliance on fossil fuels causing significant environmental pollution and resource depletion. To mitigate these problems, it is crucial to explore and implement alternative clean energy sources. This manuscript proposes a novel crayfish optimization algorithm (COA) for optimal scheduling in a hybrid power system that incorporates various renewable energy sources, like battery energy storage systems (BESS), fuel cells (FC), wind turbines (WT), micro turbines (MT) and photovoltaic (PV) panels. The importance of the work lies in its ability to optimize the entire operating costs of a grid‐connected microgrid while improving the accuracy and efficiency of energy management. The COA method addresses economic dispatch problems and manages energy within the grid‐connected microgrid, accounting for high levels of uncertainty. The proposed approach, tested using MATLAB Simulink, achieved a cost value of 252, outperforming existing methods such as GTO, PSO, SSA, and ALO. This illustrates the potential of the proposed technique to provide more cost‐effective and efficient energy management solutions in hybrid power systems.
Extended postpartum intimate partner violence and its associated factors among Iranian women: Community‐based cross‐sectional study design
Authors: Ghelichkhani Fatemeh , Behboodi Moghadam Zahra , Zareiyan Armin , Namazi Masoumeh
Published: September 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of different types of intimate partner violence (IPV) and factors associated with it during the postpartum period.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 428 women were enrolled from 10 health centers in the south of Tehran, Iran, between April 2023 and October 2023. We used a sociodemographic questionnaire, Conflict Tactics Scale (CTS2), the short form of the Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale (CD‐RISC), and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21) for data collection. Multivariate binary logistic regression was used to determine demographic and psychological predictors of IPV after childbirth.

Results

Approximately two‐thirds of women (n=285, 66.6%) experienced IPV within 1 year of childbirth. Psychological aggression (n= 276, 64.5%) was the most common type of IPV, whereas injury (n=96, 22.4%) was the least common. Additionally, one in three women experienced physical assault (n= 134, 31.3%), and over one‐third experienced sexual coercion (n= 152, 35.5%). Predictor factors of IPV during the postpartum period were: insufficient family income (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.24–15.28), husband's smoking (aOR 3.17, 95% CI 1.70–5.92), history of IPV in pregnancy (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.33–4.50), number of children (aOR 3.02, 95% CI 1.79–5.10), and depression (aOR 1.2, 95% CI 1.08–1.14). On the other hand, protective factors of IPV during the postpartum period were: longer marriage duration (aOR 0.85, 95% CI 0.77–0.93) and greater resilience (aOR 0.95, 95% CI 0.90–0.99).

Conclusion

IPV is prevalent 1 year after childbirth. Healthcare providers should implement a thorough screening program to identify risk and protective factors related to postpartum IPV.
Potential hazards of bisphenol A on the male reproductive system: Induction of programmed cell death in testicular cells
Authors: Sadek Kadry M. , Khalifa Norhan E. , Alshial Eman E. , Abdelnour Sameh A. , Mohamed Amany A‐R. , Noreldin Ahmed E.
Published: September 2024

A common industrial chemical known as bisphenol A (BPA) has been linked to endocrine disruption and can interfere with hormonal signaling pathways in humans and animals. This comprehensive review aims to explore the detrimental consequences of BPA on reproductive organ performance and apoptosis induction, shedding light on the emerging body of evidence from laboratory animal studies. Historically, most studies investigating the connection between BPA and reproductive tissue function have mainly leaned on laboratory animal models. These studies have provided crucial insights into the harmful effects of BPA on several facets of reproduction. This review consolidates an increasing literature that correlates exposure to BPA in the environment with a negative impact on human health. It also integrates findings from laboratory studies conducted on diverse species, collectively bolstering the mounting evidence that environmental BPA exposure can be detrimental to both humans and animals, particularly to reproductive health. Furthermore, this article explores the fundamental processes by which BPA triggers cell death and apoptosis in testicular cells. By elucidating these mechanisms, this review aids a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between BPA and reproductive tissues.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Xeligekimab: An Anti‐IL‐17A Monoclonal Antibody, in Patients with Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Meng Qingheng , Wang Wei , Zhang Lingxiao , Shi Haiyang , Liu Hongxia , Zheng Qingshan , Xu Ling
Published: September 2024

Xeligekimab, a recombinant fully human IgG4 monoclonal antibody, has been strategically developed to target IL‐17A and is presently in the developmental phase for treating moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. This study aims to investigate the pharmacokinetic profile of Xeligekimab, utilizing data derived from clinical trials specifically conducted in Chinese patients. The study conducted a population pharmacokinetic (PopPK) analysis involving 614 patients with plaque psoriasis. Examined covariates encompassed demographics, baseline laboratory tests, anti‐drug antibodies (ADA), injection site, and disease‐related baseline characteristics. Model evaluation utilized goodness‐of‐fit, prediction‐corrected visual prediction check, and bootstrap methods. The clinical significance of covariates statistically associated with Xeligekimab was assessed through simulation analysis. The PopPK model of Xeligekimab demonstrated characteristics of a two‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and linear elimination. Inter‐individual variability (IIV) was estimated for clearance and volume of distribution. For a typical plaque psoriasis patient, the estimated values for absorption rate constant (Ka), apparent clearance (CL/F), central compartment volume (Vc/F), peripheral compartment volume (Vp/F), and inter‐compartmental clearance (Q/F) was 0.225 per day, 2.223 L/day, 4.02 L, 4.13 L, and 1.11 L/day, respectively. The estimated IIV for CL/F and Vc/F was 25.8% and 49.8%, respectively. The elimination half‐life (t1/2) was approximately 28.5 days. CL/F was significantly influenced by factors such as body weight, age, gender, and baseline total protein. Vc/F was significantly influenced by body weight, age, gender, and baseline albumin. However, the clinical relevance of these covariate effects on exposure parameters was determined to be limited.
AI‐induced dehumanization
Authors: Kim Hye‐young , McGill Ann L.
Published: September 2024

Recent technological advancements have empowered nonhuman entities, such as virtual assistants and humanoid robots, to simulate human intelligence and behavior. This paper investigates how autonomous agents influence individuals' perceptions and behaviors toward others, particularly human employees. Our research reveals that the socio‐emotional capabilities of autonomous agents lead individuals to attribute a humanlike mind to these nonhuman entities. Perceiving a high level of humanlike mind in the nonhuman, autonomous agents affects perceptions of actual people through an assimilation process. Consequently, we observe “assimilation‐induced dehumanization”: the humanness judgment of actual people is assimilated toward the lower humanness judgment of autonomous agents, leading to various forms of mistreatment. We demonstrate that assimilation‐induced dehumanization is mitigated when autonomous agents possess capabilities incompatible with humans, leading to a contrast effect (Study 2), and when autonomous agents are perceived as having a high level of cognitive capability only, resulting in a lower level of mind perception of these agents (Study 3). Our findings hold across various types of autonomous agents (embodied: Studies 1–2 and disembodied: Studies 3–5), as well as in real and hypothetical consumer choices.
Novel insights into the association between genetically proxied inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 and risk of sarcopenia
Authors: Jiang Hongyan , Li Lulu , Zhang Xue , He Jia , Chen Chuanhuai , Sun Ruimin , Chen Ying , Xia Lijuan , Wen Lei , Chen Yunxiang , Liu Junxiu , Zhang Lijiang , Lv Wanqiang
Published: September 2024

Background

The effects of lipid‐lowering drugs [including statins, ezetimibe, and proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) inhibitors] on hyperlipidaemia have been established. Some may have treatment effects beyond their reported properties, offering potential opportunities for drug repurposing. Epidemiological studies have reported conflicting findings on the relationship between lipid‐lowering medication use and sarcopenia risk.

Methods

We performed a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study to investigate the causal association between the use of genetically proxied lipid‐lowering drugs (including statins, ezetimibe, and PCSK9 inhibitors, which use low‐density lipoprotein as a biomarker), and sarcopenia risk. The inverse‐variance weighting method was used with pleiotropy‐robust methods (MR–Egger regression and weighted median) and colocalization as sensitivity analyses.

Results

According to the positive control analysis, genetically proxied inhibition in lipid‐lowering drug targets was associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease [PCSK9 (OR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.61 to 0.72; P = 7.7E‐21); 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR; OR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.57 to 0.82; P = 4.6E‐05), and Niemann–Pick C1‐like 1 (NPC1L1; OR, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.40 to 0.69; P = 3.3E‐06)], consistent with drug mechanistic actions and previous trial evidence. Genetically proxied inhibition of PCSK9 (beta, −0.040; 95% CI, −0.068 to −0.012; P = 0.005) and circulating PCSK9 levels (beta, −0.019; 95% CI, −0.033 to −0.005; P = 0.006) were associated with reduced appendicular lean mass (ALM) with concordant estimates in terms of direction and magnitude. Validation analyses using a second instrument for PCSK9 yielded consistent results in terms of direction and magnitude [(PCSK9 to ALM; beta, −0.052; 95% CI, −0.074 to −0.032; P = 7.1E‐7); (PCSK9 protein to ALM; beta, −0.060; 95% CI, −0.106 to −0.014; P = 0.010)]. Genetically proxied inhibition of PCSK9 gene expression in the liver may be associated with reduced ALM (beta, −0.013; 95% CI, −0.035 to 0.009; P = 0.25), consistent with the results of PCSK9 drug‐target and PCSK9 protein MR analyses, but the magnitude was less precise. No robust association was found between HMGCR inhibition (beta, 0.048; 95% CI, −0.015 to 0.110; P = 0.14) or NPC1L1 (beta, 0.035; 95% CI, −0.074 to 0.144; P = 0.53) inhibition and ALM, and validation and sensitivity MR analyses showed consistent estimates.

Conclusions

This MR study suggested that PCSK9 is involved in sarcopenia pathogenesis and that its inhibition is associated with reduced ALM. These findings potentially pave the way for future studies that may allow personalized selection of lipid‐lowering drugs for those at risk of sarcopenia.
Exploring the suitability of cannabis use with next‐day responsibilities: A behavioral‐economic and qualitative study
Authors: Miller Brandon P. , Csölle Kianna , Chen Christina , Lester Anna , Weinsztok Sarah C. , Aston Elizabeth R. , Amlung Michael
Published: September 2024

Cannabis demand is sensitive to next‐day responsibilities, such as job interviews; however, it is unclear how demand is affected by non‐work‐related responsibilities and how reported compatibility of cannabis use (i.e., how suitable one perceives cannabis use to be in a situation) influences demand. This study examined the effects of a range of responsibilities on cannabis demand in a crowdsourced sample of adults who smoked cannabis at least monthly (n = 177; 78% White; 47% women; mean age = 36.52). Participants completed hypothetical marijuana purchase tasks asking how much cannabis they would consume at escalating prices in the context of no responsibilities and next‐day responsibilities spanning work, leisure, and caregiving. Cannabis demand was significantly reduced in all responsibility conditions (ps < .008; ds .28–.94), with the largest reductions for the job interview and caring‐for‐kids conditions. Higher ratings of suitability of cannabis use in each situation were correlated with higher demand. Finally, a qualitative thematic analysis characterized why cannabis use was considered suitable or unsuitable with each responsibility. These results suggest that demand is sensitive to next‐day responsibilities. However, these effects are not uniform, and future research is needed to examine these individual differences and the timing of upcoming responsibilities.
Relationships between soil test phosphorus and county‐level agricultural surplus phosphorus
Authors: Tang Qicheng , Duckworth Owen W. , Obenour Daniel R. , Kulesza Stephanie B. , Slaton Nathan A. , Whitaker Andrew H. , Nelson Natalie G.
Published: September 2024

National nutrient inventories provide surplus phosphorus (P) estimates derived from county‐scale mass balance calculations using P inputs from manure and fertilizer sales and P outputs from crop yield data. Although bioavailable P and surplus P are often correlated at the field scale, few studies have investigated the relationship between measured soil P concentrations of large‐scale soil testing programs and inventory‐based surplus P estimates. In this study, we assessed the relationship between national surplus P data from the NuGIS dataset and laboratory‐measured soil test phosphorus (STP) at the county scale for Arkansas, North Carolina, and Oklahoma. For optimal periods of surplus P aggregation, surplus P was positively correlated with STP based on both Pearson (Arkansas: r = 0.65, North Carolina: r = 0.45, Oklahoma: r = 0.52) and Spearman correlation coefficients (Arkansas: ρ = 0.57, North Carolina: ρ = 0.28, and Oklahoma: ρ = 0.66). Based on Pearson correlations, the optimal surplus P aggregation periods were 10, 30, and 4 years for AR, NC, and OK, respectively. On average, STP was more strongly correlated with surplus P than with individual P inventory components (fertilizer, manure, and crop removal), except in North Carolina. In Arkansas and North Carolina, manure P was positively correlated with STP, and fertilizer P was negatively correlated with STP. Altogether, results suggest that surplus P moderately correlates with STP concentrations, but aggregation period and location‐specific factors influence the strength of the relationship.
Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell‐derived extracellular vesicles in SARS‐CoV‐2 and H1N1 influenza‐induced acute lung injury
Authors: Lee Jun Ho , Jeon Hyungtaek , Lötvall Jan , Cho Byong Seung
Published: September 2024

Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)‐derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have shown anti‐inflammatory potential in multiple inflammatory diseases. In the March 2022 issue of the Journal of Extracellular Vesicles, it was shown that EVs from human MSCs can suppress severe acute respiratory distress syndrome, coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) replication and can mitigate the production and release of infectious virions. We therefore hypothesized that MSC‐EVs have an anti‐viral effect in SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in vivo. We extended this question to ask whether also other respiratory viral infections could be treated by MSC‐EVs. Adipose stem cell‐derived EVs (ASC‐EVs) were isolated using tangential flow filtration from conditioned media obtained from a multi‐flask cell culture system. The effects of the ASC‐EVs were tested  in Vero E6 cells in vitro. ASC‐EVs were also given i.v. to SARS‐CoV‐2 infected Syrian Hamsters, and H1N1 influenza virus infected mice. The ASC‐EVs attenuated SARS‐CoV‐2 virus replication in Vero E6 cells and reduced body weight and signs of lung injury in infected Syrian hamsters. Furthermore, ASC‐EVs increased the survival rate of influenza A‐infected mice and attenuated signs of lung injury. In summary, this study suggests that ASC‐EVs can have beneficial therapeutic effects in models of virus‐infection‐associated acute lung injury and may potentially be developed to treat lung injury in humans.
Microtubules, Membranes, and Movement: New Roles for Stathmin‐2 in Axon Integrity
Authors: Thornburg‐Suresh Emma J. C. , Summers Daniel W.
Published: September 2024

Neurons establish functional connections responsible for how we perceive and react to the world around us. Communication from a neuron to its target cell occurs through a long projection called an axon. Axon distances can exceed 1 m in length in humans and require a dynamic microtubule cytoskeleton for growth during development and maintenance in adulthood. Stathmins are microtubule‐associated proteins that function as relays between kinase signaling and microtubule polymerization. In this review, we describe the prolific role of Stathmins in microtubule homeostasis with an emphasis on emerging roles for Stathmin‐2 (Stmn2) in axon integrity and neurodegeneration. Stmn2 levels are altered in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and loss of Stmn2 provokes motor and sensory neuropathies. There is growing potential for employing Stmn2 as a disease biomarker or even a therapeutic target. Meeting this potential requires a mechanistic understanding of emerging complexity in Stmn2 function. In particular, Stmn2 palmitoylation has a surprising contribution to axon maintenance through undefined mechanisms linking membrane association, tubulin interaction, and axon transport. Exploring these connections will reveal new insight on neuronal cell biology and novel opportunities for disease intervention.
A surgical preadmission pharmacist service in a tertiary paediatric hospital: a pilot study
Authors: Chio Bruce , Zahir Syeda Farah , Lee‐Peters Jenny , Elliott Emily , Steward‐Harrison Lana , Burns Gemma , Stacey Sonya
Published: September 2024

Background

Pharmacist surgical preadmission review is common in adult healthcare settings, however there is little evidence of this practice in the paediatric setting. This research describes a pilot surgical preadmission pharmacist service in a paediatric hospital.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of a surgical preadmission pharmacist service on patient flow and the quality of medication management.

Method

A retrospective review (2 months) was conducted to compare an intervention group (1 May 2019–30 June 2019) to historical baseline (1 October 2018–30 November 2018). Children and adolescents (aged 0–18 years) presenting for elective surgery and overnight admission were included. Relevant clinical data and timestamps were extracted from the electronic medical record. Multiple linear regression models were built to examine the difference in outcomes between the control and intervention groups. This project was exempt due to the local policy requirements that constitute research by the Queensland Children's Hospital Human Research Ethics Committee (Reference no: LNR/19/QCHQ/53406). The justification for this exemption was as follows: the study presented no foreseeable risk of patient harm as it involved evaluation of an established standard of clinical care and involved the use of existing collections of records that contain only non‐identifiable patient data.

Results

In total, 135 patients were included in the baseline and 96 patients were included in the intervention group. The intervention group had statistically significant lower time to best possible medication history (BPMH) by 47.57 h (95% confidence interval [CI] −53.25 to −41.89, p < 0.001). Time to prescription of home medications was significantly reduced in the intervention group by 5.26 h (95% CI −10.45 to −0.08, p = 0.05). There was no difference in proportion of patients with home medications omitted (71–62%, p = 0.38) or requiring modification (14–12%, p = 0.58) between the two groups.

Conclusion

Implementation of a surgical preadmission pharmacist service in our paediatric hospital demonstrated earlier BPMH documentation and prescription of home medications, without negative effects on perioperative patient flow.