bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Albumin‐Loaded Silica Nanomaterials Functionalized with Organotin(IV) Agents: Theranostic Materials Against Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: García‐Almodóvar Victoria , Ovejero‐Paredes Karina , Díaz‐García Diana , Méndez‐Arriaga José M. , Prashar Sanjiv , Filice Marco , Gómez‐Ruiz Santiago
Published: July 2024

The current search for more effective and milder cancer treatments has led to the development of a wide variety of multifunctional nanoplatforms that are designed to both diagnose and treat cancer. In this study, the optimization of the synthesis of theranostic materials based on mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) functionalized with different cytotoxic (organotin(IV) compounds), imaging (fluorescein and/or indocyanine green), and targeting agents of interest, such as albumin (HA), is achieved by using different strategies. These systems shows good cytotoxic capacity against triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells (MDA‐MB‐231) in MTT (dimethylthiazolyl‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium bromide) assays and confocal analysis shows that the incorporation of HA as a potential active targeting molecule may enhance the cellular uptake of the nanomaterial, and thus, increasing its therapeutic potential. The analysis of the results and the effect of the imaging, targeting, and cytotoxic fragments should allow a more in‐depth study of these materials in other in vitro and/or in vivo models.
Fabrication of polydopamine‐modified cellulose hydrogel for controlled release of α‐mangostin
Authors: Phan Hoang Lich , Tran Ngoc Cam Trang , Le Thi Hoang Yen , Le Quoc‐Viet , Le Tran‐Thai‐Duong , Thach Ut Dong
Published: July 2024

Hydrogels are notable for their outstanding absorbent qualities, satisfactory compatibility with biological systems, ability to degrade, and inherent safety, all of which contribute to their high demand in the field of biomedicine. This study focuses on the fabrication of hydrogels using environmentally friendly cellulosic material. Cellulose hydrogel beads were prepared by physical cross‐linking in a NaOH/urea medium. Furthermore, nano polydopamine was integrated into the hydrogel matrix as functional polymers and α‐mangostin was employed as an active pharmaceutical ingredient. The physicochemical properties were comprehensively analyzed using Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometer, 13C cross‐polarization/magic angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance, thermogravimetric analysis, and scanning electron microscope. The drug delivery properties, including water content, swelling ratio, and drug release profiles, were evaluated. In vitro cytotoxicity against MC3T3‐E1 cells was assessed using sulforhodamine B staining. All test hydrogels exhibited inhibitory activity against the growth of MC3T3‐E1 cells. These results indicated the potential use of these hydrogels as a drug delivery carrier for α‐mangostin in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis.
Revolutionizing Lab‐Scale Electrochemical Reactors: Innovative Breakthroughs With 3D Printing Fabrication
Authors: Granados‐Fernández Rafael , Cárdenas‐Arenas Andrea , Montiel Miguel A.
Published: July 2024

An efficient and successful electrochemical process must take place in an electrochemical reactor with an adapted and optimized design that allows superior performance to be achieved. Traditional manufacturing methods have made the task of optimizing and adapting reactors very expensive. However, 3D printing allows prototypes to be built in a very short time and at a very low cost compared to traditional manufacturing techniques. This has caused research into new electrochemical reactors in different laboratories to skyrocket in recent years. The rapid evolution of 3D printing technology, as well as the appearance of new materials, have meant that they can be included in many applications, such as the electrochemical treatment of contaminated water or energy devices, batteries or fuel cells. In this review, the latest advances in the manufacture of electrochemical reactors and the main applications that have made use of them will be presented and critically discussed.
Development of a Co3O4/rGO Modified Electrochemical Sensor for Highly Sensitive Riboflavin Detection
Authors: Uwaya Gloria Ebube , Sappidi Praveen Kumar , Bisetty Krishna
Published: July 2024

The monitoring of antioxidants is crucial to prevent damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). In this study, we introduce an innovative electrochemical sensor tailored for detecting riboflavin (RF), a powerful antioxidant. The sensor was developed by modifying a gold electrode (AuE) with cobalt oxide (Co3O4) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The resulting nanocomposite‐modified electrode (AuE/Co3O4‐rGO) exhibited a substantial surface area of 0.41 cm2 in the redox probe, leading to an enhanced RF peak characterized by remarkably low charge transfer resistance (1.61 KΩ) and a high exchange current density (18.6 μA/cm2). Under optimized conditions, the sensor achieved a limit of detection (LOD) for RF at 1.30 μM, over a concentration range of 6.5–42.2 μM. These results highlight the sensor's potential applicability in real‐world scenarios, including the analysis of milk and pharmaceutical samples. A kinetics study revealed that the electrochemical reaction involving RF is adsorption‐controlled, emphasising the critical role of surface interactions. The modified electrode's interaction with RF significantly influences overall reaction kinetics. These findings were further supported by density functional theory (DFT) calculations and molecular simulations. Our nanocomposite‐modified electrode provides valuable insights into the atomistic interactions governing sensor performance, advancing the field of electrochemical sensing for antioxidants like riboflavin.
Efficient Adsorption and Elimination of Tm3+ for Enhanced Seed Germination Using Pillar[5]Arene Polymer
Authors: Bahojb Noruzi Ehsan , Xu Weiwei , Li Guang , Qu Haonan , Ma Cuiguang , Zhang Haifan , He Qiang , Periyasami Govindasami , Li Haibing
Published: July 2024

While rare earth elements (REEs) are essential for modern technology, their production methods raise concerns for agriculture. Researchers are now exploring ways to control and recycle REEs pollution, aiming to minimize agricultural impacts and potentially even develop methods to utilize these elements for improved crop yields. Regarding this issue, a new type of pillar[5]arene polymer (Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP) has been designed and synthesized by click reaction to enhance the efficiency of adsorption and recovery of rare earth metals. This polymer incorporates the unique structure of 2,6‐di‐1,2,3‐triazolyl‐pyridine. The results of various analyses revealed that Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP exhibits excellent thermal stability, a high specific surface area, and well‐distributed networks of micropores and mesoporous structures. The adsorption capacity of Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP for Tm3+, a representative REE, was evaluated using the Langmuir and Freundlich isothermal adsorption models with a maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) of 127.71 mg/g. Furthermore, the versatility of Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP in adsorption and recovering various REEs was tested. In addition to its adsorption capabilities, the potential of Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP for rare earth recovery and reuse was assessed through experiments on the impact of Tm3+ and La3+ on seed germination. These experiments demonstrated the wide‐ranging applicability of Pol‐P[5]‐BTZP in recovering and reusing REEs for green agriculture.
Quarz – wenn's fest werden muss
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: July 2024

Folgen Sie uns durch das wilde Verzascatal. Die geologische Vielfalt spiegelt die komplexe Gesteinsbildung wider: Magmatische Prozesse, metamorphe Umwandlungen und die Zeit haben zu dieser faszinierenden Landschaft geführt.
Benchmarking the potential of a resistant green hydrocolloid for chemical enhanced oil recovery from sandstone reservoirs
Authors: Nowrouzi Iman , Mohammadi Amir H. , Khaksar Manshad Abbas
Published: July 2024

Polymer injection into oil reservoirs stands as a primary technique for enhanced oil recovery (EOR), employing either natural or synthetic polymers that dissolve in water. Proper performance in salinity and reservoir temperature creates a limitation to replace natural material with common chemicals and this has led researchers to try to identify new material for this application. Continuing the efforts and overcoming the challenge, this research introduces and examines a high‐performance natural polymer extracted from garden cress seeds for this application. Several experiments were planned and executed based on the existing EOR standards and literature. Comprehensive analyses and viscosity measurements were performed to identify the behaviour of solutions and the effects of concentration, shear rate, salinity, and temperature. Essential tests such as wettability and polymer adsorption were also done by contact angle measurement and flooding into a sandstone plug, respectively. The produced polymer was able to effectively maintain the viscosification properties at temperatures up to 95°C. Similarly, increasing the salinity up to 140,000 ppm did not affect its efficiency and the viscosity value remained in the useful range. The viscosity of the mature solutions at 35°C after 30 h at concentrations of 200, 400, 600, 800, 1000, and 1200 ppm was 8.61, 18.59, 31.27, 65.41, 95.38, and 149.75 mPa, respectively. At 1000 ppm and temperatures of 35, 55, 75, and 95°C, the viscosity was 95.38, 90.57, 86.73, and 84.72 mPa · s, respectively. At concentrations of 600, 800, and 1000 ppm, the wettability altered to intermediate‐wet, while at 1200 ppm, altered to water‐wet. Polymer injection caused an increase in recovery equal to 18.6%. The water cut increased with a little delay in the initial volumes of water injection at a high rate and reached its maximum. Then after the injection of 0.3 PV of polymer, there was a sharp and continuous drop until reaching 35% of the production fluid volume.
Multi‐population artificial bee colony algorithm for many‐objective cascade reservoir scheduling
Authors: Wang Shuai , Wang Hui , Liao Futao , Wei Zichen , Hu Min
Published: July 2024

Artificial bee colony (ABC) is a popular intelligent algorithm that is widely applied to many optimization problems. However, it is challenging for ABC to solve many‐objective optimization problems (MaOPs). To tackle this issue, this article proposes a many‐objective ABC based on multi‐population (called MMaOABC) for MaOPs. In MMaOABC, the population is divided into multiple sub‐populations, and each sub‐population optimizes one objective. Three search strategies are constructed based on multiple sub‐populations to improve convergence and diversity. In the employed bee stage, some excellent solutions in multiple sub‐populations are used to guide the convergence. In the onlooker bee stage, new selection probabilities based on diversity metrics are designed to enhance the diversity. Dimensional learning is introduced in the scout bee stage to avoid falling into local minimum. In addition, environmental selection and external archives are utilized for communications among sub‐populations. To validate the performance of MMaOABC, two benchmark sets (DTLZ and MaF) with 3, 5, 8, and 15 objectives are tested. Computational results show that MMaOABC is competitive when compared with seven other many‐objective evolutionary algorithms (MaOEAs). Finally, MMaOABC is applied to many‐objective cascade reservoir scheduling. Simulation results show that MMaOABC still obtains promising performance.
Photocatalytic Upcycling of Different Types of Plastic Wastes: A Mini Review
Authors: Deng Yuan , Chen Jinxing , Zhang Qiao , Cao Muhan
Published: July 2024

With the escalating demand and utilization of plastics, considerable attention has been given to controlling plastic pollution. Among these methodologies, photocatalytic upcycling of plastic has emerged as a promising method for plastic management due to its energy‐saving and eco‐friendly properties. In the past several years, great efforts have been devoted to the photocatalytic conversion of a variety of commercial plastic types. These encouraging endeavors foreshadow the continued progression and application in this field. In this review, recent advancements in the photocatalytic upcycling of plastics are reviewed. The fundamentals and principles of photocatalytic deconstruction of plastics are first introduced. Then, we summarize the works on the reforming of different types of plastic, including polyolefins, polyesters, and other types. Finally, some challenges and possible solutions are provided for the development of photocatalytic upcycling of plastics.
Model‐Informed Reinforcement Learning for Enabling Precision Dosing Via Adaptive Dosing
Authors: Tosca Elena Maria , De Carlo Alessandro , Ronchi Davide , Magni Paolo
Published: July 2024

Precision dosing, the tailoring of drug doses to optimize therapeutic benefits and minimize risks in each patient, is essential for drugs with a narrow therapeutic window and severe adverse effects. Adaptive dosing strategies extend the precision dosing concept to time‐varying treatments which require sequential dose adjustments based on evolving patient conditions. Reinforcement learning (RL) naturally fits this paradigm: it perfectly mimics the sequential decision‐making process where clinicians adapt dose administration based on patient response and evolution monitoring. This paper aims to investigate the potentiality of coupling RL with population PK/PD models to develop precision dosing algorithms, reviewing the most relevant works in the field. Case studies in which PK/PD models were integrated within RL algorithms as simulation engine to predict consequences of any dosing action have been considered and discussed. They mainly concern propofol‐induced anesthesia, anticoagulant therapy with warfarin and a variety of anticancer treatments differing for administered agents and/or monitored biomarkers. The resulted picture highlights a certain heterogeneity in terms of precision dosing approaches, applied methodologies, and degree of adherence to the clinical domain. In addition, a tutorial on how a precision dosing problem should be formulated in terms of the key elements composing the RL framework (i.e., system state, agent actions and reward function), and on how PK/PD models could enhance RL approaches is proposed for readers interested in delving in this field. Overall, the integration of PK/PD models into a RL‐framework holds great promise for precision dosing, but further investigations and advancements are still needed to address current limitations and extend the applicability of this methodology to drugs requiring adaptive dosing strategies.
High‐Efficiency Deep Red Fluorescent Material with Aggregation Induced Emission and the Application in Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Hanyuan , Pu Yuanyuan , Li Zhi , Wan Liang , Ge Shuyuan , Ma Xiaobo , Liu Futong , Lu Ping
Published: July 2024

The development of highly efficient deep red materials with emission wavelength beyond 650 nm remains a big challenge due to the constraints imposed by the energy gap rule. In this work, a donor‐acceptor‐donor type emitter, 4,7‐bis (10‐(4‐(tert‐butyl) phenyl)‐10H‐phenothiazin‐3‐yl) benzo[c][1,2,5] thiadiazole (TBPPTZ) is designed and synthesized. Resulting from the slight twist angle between the donor and acceptor units, TBPPTZ exhibits nearly planar conformation and an extended conjugated structure. TBPPTZ shows a deep red emission peak at 687 nm and aggregation induced emission property with a high photoluminescence quantum yield of 45 % in neat thin film. The optimized organic light‐emitting diode (OLEDs) utilizing TBPPTZ as the non‐doped emissive layer obtains a high external quantum efficiency (EQE) up to 2.51 % with an electroluminescence (EL) peak at 676 nm, aligning with the Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates (0.68, 0.31), which shows a small EQE roll‐off of only 5.6 % at 100 cd m−2. Additionally, the doped OLED achieves an EQE up to 5.09 %, with an EL peak at 656 nm and CIE coordinates of (0.65, 0.34). The findings of this research not only contribute to achieve highly efficient deep red OLEDs but also offer a novel and effective deep red molecular strategy to realize high‐quality OLEDs.
Gastric cancer detection based on cell‐free DNA in blood: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Mona , Fan Xiaohan , Huang Boyang , Pan Kaifeng , Gerhard Markus , Mejías‐Luque Raquel , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2024

Objective

Screening and early diagnosis of gastric cancer (GC) are crucial for improved prognosis. However, gastroscopic screening is not feasible in large populations due to its high cost and invasive nature. The detection of circulating cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) provides an attractive minimally‐invasive alternative for screening of GC. In this systematic review and meta‐analysis, we evaluate the diagnostic value of cfDNA‐based markers for GC, including the detection of total concentration, mutations, and methylation alterations.

Methods

We performed a systematic search of four literature databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library) for articles published before November 2022. The revised tool for the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS‐2) was used to evaluate the quality of included studies. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42021210830.

Results

A total of 15 original articles involving 2849 individuals were included in this meta‐analysis, comprising five studies on concentration, nine studies on methylation alterations, and one study on mutation biomarkers of cfDNA. Among these studies, seven selected early‐stage GC subjects. For the diagnoses of overall stages and early‐stage GC, the pooled sensitivities with 95% confidence interval were 0.74 (0.66–0.82) and 0.64 (0.51–0.76), and the pooled specificities were 0.92 (0.84–0.96) and 0.94 (0.87–0.98) with summary areas under the curve (SAUCs) of 0.89 (0.86–0.91) and 0.86 (0.83–0.89), respectively.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis suggests that cfDNA‐based biomarkers show diagnostic value for GC early detection.
Studies on the influence of titanium dioxide nanoparticles on thermal, flammability, and UV properties of PEG‐based phase change material composites
Authors: Tanwar Surya , Kaur Raminder
Published: July 2024

The current study is focused on the development of phase change material composites (PCCs), attained by the solvent‐casting method, comprising a hydrophilic polymer matrix (polyvinyl alcohol) enclosing polyethylene glycol (PEG600) as an active thermal energy storage (TES) component, and anchored with titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TDN). The impact of the integrated metal oxide nanoparticles at different loadings (0.25%‐1%) on the TES attributes, thermal stability, UV resistance, and flame retardancy of the fabricated composites has been studied. The Fourier‐transform infrared and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy techniques have been used to characterize the PCCs obtained. Phase change attributes and thermal stability of the resultant PCCs are evaluated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and thermogravimatric analysis (TGA). The introduction of TDN particles in different concentrations to the PCCs considerably refines the phase change variables and thermal resistance of the reinforced film samples. PCCs film with 1% TDN concentration exhibited onset melting and crystallization temperatures at −9.9°C and 13.5°C, respectively, and peak melting and crystallization transitions occurred at 8.7°C and 3.6°C, with associated heat enthalpies of 25.57 and 22.22 J g−1, respectively. UV and flame‐retardant (FR) features of the PCCs were found to be improved with the presence of metal oxide particles in the composite films. The metal oxide nanoparticles enhance the FR behavior of fabricated composites by 11.45% as compared to unfilled films.
Anticancer potential of phytochemicals derived from mangrove plants: Comprehensive mechanistic insights
Authors: Chowdhury Raihan , Bhuia Md. Shimul , Al Hasan Md. Sakib , Hossain Snigdha Shadid , Afrin Sadia , Büsselberg Dietrich , Habtemariam Solomon , Sönmez Gürer Eda , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Ahmed Aldahish Afaf , Аkhtayeva Nursulu , Islam Muhammad Torequl
Published: July 2024

Cancer is a collection of illnesses characterized by aberrant cellular proliferation that can infiltrate or metastasize to distant anatomical sites, posing a notable threat to human well‐being due to its substantial morbidity and death rates worldwide. The potential of plant‐derived natural compounds as anticancer medicines has been assessed owing to their favorable attributes of few side effects and significant antitumor activity. Mangrove plants and their derived compounds have been scientifically shown to exhibit many significant beneficial biological activities, such as anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, neuroprotective, cardioprotective, and hepatoprotective properties. This study summarized mangrove plants and their derived compounds as potential anticancer agents, with an emphasis on the underlying molecular mechanisms. To explore this, we gathered data on the preclinical (in vivo and in vitro) anticancer effects of mangrove plants and their derived compounds from reputable literature spanning 2000 to 2023. We conducted thorough searches in various academic databases, including PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online, SpringerLink, Google Scholar, Scopus, and the Web of Science. The results demonstrated that mangrove plants and their derived compounds have promising anticancer properties in preclinical pharmacological test systems through various molecular mechanisms, including induction of oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity, cell cycle arrest, apoptosis, autophagy, antiproliferative, antimetastatic, and other miscellaneous actions. Upon thorough observation of the pertinent information, it is suggested that mangrove plants and their derived chemicals may serve as a potential lead in the development of novel drugs for cancer therapy.
Encapsulation of Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus using Elaeagnus angustifolia L. flour as encapsulating material by emulsion method
Authors: Karkar Büşra , Şahin Saliha , Yılmaz‐Ersan Lütfiye , Akça Bekir , Güneş Mesut Ertan , Özakın Cüneyt
Published: July 2024

In this study, Lacticaseibacillus casei and Lactobacillus acidophilus probiotic bacteria were encapsulated using oleaster flour, which is rich in phenolic compounds and has prebiotic properties as potential. The optimum conditions required for the encapsulation of L. casei and L. acidophilus bacteria with maximum efficiency using oleaster flour were determined by central composite design–response surface methodology. As a result of the optimization process, the encapsulation efficiency for L. casei and L. acidophilus capsules was 93.66 ± 2.58% and 74.97 ± 1.34%, respectively. The capsule sizes of L. casei and L. acidophilus encapsulated with oleaster flour were determined by scanning electron microscopy to be 104.8 ± 26.3 and 95.7 ± 12.1 μm, respectively. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analyses showed that there was no change in the structure of the encapsulation material, oleaster flour, after encapsulation. Also, the storage stability of free and encapsulated bacteria was investigated, and it was found that the viability losses of encapsulated probiotic bacteria were less than those of free probiotic bacteria. Finally, the effect of encapsulation on bacterial viability during in vitro gastrointestinal digestion was investigated, which is the main purpose of the study. While free probiotic bacteria cannot reach the intestinal environment alive after in vitro gastrointestinal digestion due to pH and enzyme effects, encapsulated L. casei and L. acidophilus bacteria largely preserved their viability, and their postdigestion viability was 39.59 ± 1.50% and 36.28 ± 0.01%, respectively. The results showed successful encapsulation of L. casei and L. acidophilus probiotic bacteria with oleaster flour.
Pyrolytic hydrocarbon generation characteristics of the Chang 7 shale based on different experimental methods: Implications for shale oil and gas in the Ordos Basin
Authors: Guo Xiaobo , Zhou Longfei , Shi Baohong , Li Yu , Lin Siya , Li Yanxia , Sun Jianbo , Liu Gang , Yin Jintao , Zhang Chenglin
Published: July 2024

Shale oil and gas resources are abundant in the Chang 7 shale of the Yanchang Formation in Ordos Basin. To determine the characteristics and influencing factors of hydrocarbon generation evolution of the Chang 7 shale, a series of thermal simulation experiments were conducted on low‐maturity shale and kerogen samples. The results indicate that the maximum yield of shale oil are 294.5 and 304.3 mg/g TOC for kerogen sample at heating rates of 20 and 2°C/h, and the corresponding experimental temperatures are 360.2°C and 408.0°C, respectively. The utilization of lower heating rates is favourable for shale oil generation and it is recommended to employ a lower heating rate during in situ heating processes to maximize the economic benefits. The formation of crude oil cracking gas begins when simulating temperature exceeds 528.0°C (Easy Ro 2.6%) at a heating rate of 20°C/h and 480.0°C (Easy Ro 2.5%) at a heating rate of 2°C/h, as indicated by the carbon isotopic composition of gaseous hydrocarbons. The maximum oil production rate of the rock powder sample is 159.8 mg/g TOC, which is lower than that of the kerogen sample. It suggests that certain minerals in the Chang 7 shale may impede hydrocarbon generation. After the addition of pyrite, the highest yield of shale oil is 213.96 mg/g TOC, 33.9% higher than the yield of the original rock powder sample, reflecting the positive catalytic effect of pyrite on hydrocarbon generation of Chang 7 shale. Under geologic conditions, pyrite catalytic hydrocarbon generation may act primarily on the migration of organic matter by macromolecules, which considerably increases the probability of direct contact between pyrite and organic matter. Therefore, the organic‐rich shale with high pyrite content in Chang 7 member is the preferred target for in situ conversion of shale oil and gas in the Ordos Basin.
Factors shaping the employment outcomes of neurodivergent and neurotypical people: Exploring the role of flexible and homeworking practices
Authors: Branicki Layla J. , Brammer Stephen , Brosnan Mark , Lazaro Aida Garcia , Lattanzio Susan , Newnes Linda
Published: July 2024

Supporting neurodivergent‐inclusive workplaces is an increasingly important consideration in Human Resource Management (HRM). While a strengths‐based approach to neurodivergence has been advocated, empirical evidence regarding the effectiveness of HRM practices that support high‐quality employment outcomes for neurodivergent people is lacking. Drawing on a nationally representative sample of over 25,000 people in the United Kingdom, we examine the influence of neurodivergence on multiple employment outcomes, including employment status, underemployment, employment precarity, job tenure, and hourly wages. We theorize and empirically examine how flexible‐ and homeworking practices moderate the effects of neurodivergence on employment outcomes. Our findings show that neurodivergent people are twice as likely to be in precarious employment and more than 10 times as likely to be in temporary employment compared to neurotypical people. Neurodivergent individuals are also significantly more likely to experience underemployment and have lower employment tenure; however, controlling for other factors, we find no significant differences in hourly wages. We find that flexible working practices can substantially improve employment outcomes for neurodivergent people, raising significant questions regarding the role of HRM in enabling more neurodiverse workplaces. We critically reflect on the implications of our findings for policy, practice, and future research.
SARS‐CoV‐2 seroprevalence and associated factors among people living with HIV in Sierra Leone
Authors: Sun Wei , Song Jinwen , Lakoh Sulaiman , Chen Jinquan , Jalloh Abdulai T. , Sahr Foday , Sevalie Stephen , Jiba Darlinda F. , Kamara Ibrahim F. , Xin Yingrong , Ye Zhongyang , Ding Feng , Dai Li‐Zhong , Wang Ligui , Zheng Xishui , Yang Guang
Published: July 2024

Background

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection is an important risk factor for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19), but data on the prevalence of COVID‐19 among people living with HIV (PLWH) is limited in low‐income countries. Our aim was to assess the seroprevalence of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) specific antibodies and associated factors among PLWH in Sierra Leone.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional survey of PLWH aged 18 years or older in Sierra Leone between August 2022 and January 2023. Participants were tested for SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies using a rapid SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody (immunoglobulin M/immunoglobulin G [IgG]) kits. Stepwise logistic regression was used to explore factors associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody seroprevalence with a significance level of p < .05.

Results

In our study, 33.4% (1031/3085) participants had received a COVID‐19 vaccine, and 75.7% were SARS‐CoV‐2 IgG positive. Higher IgG seroprevalence was observed in females (77.2% vs. 71.4%, p = .001), adults over 60 years (88.2%), those with suppressed HIV RNA (80.7% vs. 51.7%, p < .001), antiretroviral therapy (ART)‐experienced individuals (77.9% vs. 44.6%, p < .001), and vaccinated participants (80.7% vs. 73.2%, p < .001). Patients 60 years or older had the highest odds of IgG seroprevalence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.73, 95% CI = 1.68–4.65). Female sex (aOR = 1.28, 95%CI = 1.05–1.56), COVID‐19 vaccination (aOR = 1.54, 95% CI = 1.27–1.86), and ART (aOR = 2.20, 95% CI = 1.56–3.11) increased the odds, whereas HIV RNA ≥ 1000 copies/mL (aOR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.26–0.40) reduced the odds of IgG seroprevalence.

Conclusions

We observed a high seroprevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody among PLWH in Sierra Leone. We recommend the introduction of targeted vaccination for PLWH with a high risk of severe COVID‐19, especially those with an unsuppressed HIV viral load.
A New Herbal Source of Synthesizing Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Yazdani Ali , Okhovat Ahmadreza , Doosti Raheleh , Soltanian‐Zadeh Hamid
Published: July 2024

This study explores the potential of halophytes, plants adapted to saline environments, as a novel source for developing herbal MRI contrast agents. Halophytes naturally accumulate various metals within their tissues. These metal ions, potentially complexed with organic molecules, are released into aqueous solutions prepared from the plants. We investigated the ability of these compounds to generate contrast enhancement in MRI using a sequential approach. First, aqueous extracts were prepared from seven selected halophytes, and their capacity to induce contrast in MR images was evaluated. Based on these initial findings, sample halophytes were chosen for further investigations. Second, chemical analysis revealed aluminum as the primary potent metal which enhances the contrast. Third, the halophyte extract was fractionated based on polarity, and the most polar fraction exhibited the strongest contrast‐generating effect. Finally, the relaxivity of this fraction, a key parameter for MRI contrast agents, was measured. We propose that aluminum, likely complexed with a polar molecule within the plant extract, is responsible for the observed contrast enhancement in MRI.
Transforming an irrigation system to a smart irrigation system: A case study from Türkiye (Turkey)
Authors: Balta Mehmet Akif , Kulat Muhammed Imran
Published: July 2024

The Imamoğlu Agricultural Irrigation Automation Project aims to revolutionize water management and allocation in agricultural irrigation through the establishment of a central management‐based system. By integrating modern irrigation technologies and systems, the project seeks to optimize water usage by monitoring key variables such as irrigation methods and plant–water–yield relationships. The electronic water management system (ESYS), at the core of this initiative, employs a geographic information system (GIS)‐based interface and real‐time data to facilitate active participation of farmers and water stakeholders. Through the utilization of deep learning technology and real‐time data analysis, the system enables timely and informed irrigation planning, resulting in significant water savings and increased productivity. The project's implementation, focused on the Imamoğlu Irrigation System, has gradually introduced a remote central management‐based agricultural irrigation automation system to 2,240 farmers. Integrated with the ESYS, this system offers benefits including enhanced water supply security, remote access to irrigation control, soil moisture monitoring, weather‐based irrigation planning and centralized plant pattern management. The project aims to promote efficient water usage, maximize food production and serve as a model for future irrigation projects. Key highlights include up to 65%–70% increase in water savings, up to 90% reduction in energy and fuel savings, up to 90% reduction in labour and personnel savings and more efficient irrigation management, among others.
Advancing Programme Science approaches to understand gaps in HIV prevention programme coverage for key populations in 12 Nigerian states: findings from the 2020 Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey
Authors: McClarty Leigh M. , Green Kalada , Leung Stella , Ejeckam Chukwuebuka , Adesina Adediran , Shaw Souradet Y. , Neufeld Bronwyn , Isac Shajy , Emmanuel Faran , Blanchard James F. , Aliyu Gambo
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Effective HIV prevention programme coverage is necessary to achieve Nigeria's goal of ending the epidemic by 2030. Recent evidence highlights gaps in service coverage and utilization across the country. The Effective Programme Coverage framework is a Programme Science tool to optimize a programme's population‐level impact by examining gaps in programme coverage using data generated through programme‐embedded research and learning. We apply the framework using Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS) data from Nigeria to examine coverage of four prevention interventions—condoms, HIV testing, and needle and syringe programmes (NSP)—among four key population groups—female sex workers (FSW), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and transgender people.

Methods

Data from Nigeria's 2020 IBBSS, implemented in 12 states, were analysed to examine HIV prevention programme coverage among key populations. For each key population group and prevention intervention of interest, weighted IBBSS data were used to retrospectively generate coverage cascades that identify and quantify coverage gaps. Required coverage targets were informed by targets articulated in Nigeria's National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework or, in their absence, by guidelines from policy normative bodies. Availability‐, outreach‐ and utilization coverage proxy indicators were defined using variables from IBBSS data collection tools. Sankey diagrams are presented to visualize pathways followed by participants between coverage cascade steps.

Results

Required coverage targets were missed for HIV testing and NSP among all key population groups. Condom availability coverage surpassed required coverage targets among FSW and MSM, while utilization coverage only among FSW exceeded the 90% required coverage target. Outreach coverage was low for all key population groups, falling below all required coverage targets.

Conclusions

Our findings identify critical gaps in HIV prevention programme coverage for key populations in Nigeria and demonstrate non‐linear movement across coverage cascades, signalling the need for innovative solutions to optimize coverage of prevention services. Programme‐embedded research is required to better understand how key population groups in Nigeria access and use different HIV prevention services so that programmes, policies and resource allocation decisions can be optimized to achieve effective programme coverage and population‐level impact.
Infant growth and tolerance with a formula based on novel native demineralized whey: A randomized double‐blind pilot study
Authors: Pinon Anthony , Trentesaux Claire , Chaffaut Camille , Lemaire Marion , Parere Xavier , Lecerf Jean‐Michel , Schnebelen‐Berthier Coralie
Published: July 2024

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects on infant growth and tolerance of a Test infant formula based on a novel whey extraction and demineralization process, compared to a Standard formula and a breastfed reference arm.

Methods

Healthy term infants (n = 61) aged up to 21 days were randomized to Test or Control formula. A breastfed group (n = 39) served as a reference. Growth, tolerance, adverse events, and sleep were evaluated every month until 6 months of age. Plasma amino‐acid concentrations at 3 months of age were measured in a subgroup population.

Results

Growth curves of all infants globally agreed with World Health Organization standards across the 6‐month period study. Regarding tolerance, no difference between the formula‐fed groups was observed on daily number of crying episodes, intensity or time to onset of regurgitations, and stool frequency or consistency, except at 5 months with infants in the Control group having more watery stools. Plasma concentration of some amino acids differed between the groups, especially tryptophan concentration which was higher in infants fed with the Test formula. In parallel, total sleep duration was longer in these infants at 2, 3, and 5 months of age, corresponding to an increase in daytime sleep.

Conclusions

Test formula supported an adequate infant growth from birth to 6 months of age and was well‐tolerated by all infants. An increase in total sleep at several months was also observed with the Test formula.
Expanding our food supply: underutilized resources and resilient processing technologies
Authors: Knorr Dietrich , Augustin Mary Ann
Published: July 2024

Many underutilized food resources have been traditionally used by regional and poor communities. The history of their consumption makes them potential new food sources for incorporation into the wider food supply. The ability to tap the potential of undervalued and underutilized food sources will reduce the world's reliance on a limited number of food sources and improve food security and sustainability. The expansion of the food diversity of the food supply to include underutilized food resources will require overcoming challenges in the efficient and profitable production of the raw material, application of suitable postharvest handling procedures to maintain the quality of perishable produce, and the use of appropriate traditional and emerging food processing technologies for conversion of the raw material into safe, nutritious and consumer‐acceptable foods. Improvement of food processing technologies, particularly resource‐efficient resilient food processes, are required to ensure the safety, quality and functionality of the whole food or extracts, and to develop ingredient formulations containing new foods for manufacture of consumer food products. Factors that help facilitate the social acceptance of new underutilized foods include increasing consumer knowledge and understanding of the contribution of new underutilized food resources to diet diversity for good nutrition, confidence in the safety and value of new foods, and their low environmental impact and importance for future sustainable food. The introduction of new underutilized food resources will increasingly require collaboration along the whole food value chain, including support from government and industry. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Efficient standardization of clinical T2‐weighted images: Phase‐conjugacy e‐CAMP with projected gradient descent
Authors: Zhang Horace Z. , Elsaid Nahla M. H. , Sun Heng , Tagare Hemant D. , Galiana Gigi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To standardize T‐weighted images from clinical Turbo Spin Echo (TSE) scans by generating corresponding T maps with the goal of removing scanner‐ and/or protocol‐specific heterogeneity.

Methods

The T map is estimated by minimizing an objective function containing a data fidelity term in a Virtual Conjugate Coils (VCC) framework, where the signal evolution model is expressed as a linear constraint. The objective function is minimized by Projected Gradient Descent (PGD).

Results

The algorithm achieves accuracy comparable to methods with customized sampling schemes for accelerated T mapping. The results are insensitive to the tunable parameters, and the relaxed background phase prior produces better T maps compared to the strict real‐value enforcement. It is worth noting that the algorithm works well with challenging Tw‐TSE data using typical clinical parameters. The observed normalized root mean square error ranges from 6.8% to 12.3% over grey and white matter, a clinically common level of quantitative map error.

Conclusion

The novel methodological development creates an efficient algorithm that allows for T map generated from TSE data with typical clinical parameters, such as high resolution, long echo train length, and low echo spacing. Reconstruction of T maps from TSE data with typical clinical parameters has not been previously reported.
Flexural reinforcement of wood plastic composite panels by bonding glass fiber reinforced polymer sheets and embedding bars
Authors: Wang Kun , Xu Xinyue , Huo Ruili , Fang Hai , Chen Xiaoxu
Published: July 2024

Wood plastic composite (WPC) is a kind of eco‐friendly material made of agricultural and forest industry waste and residues compounded with thermoplastic. The defects of traditional WPC, such as low strength and high creep, greatly limit its engineering applications. To solve the problem, this paper proposed two methods of glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) reinforced PVC‐based WPC panels (G‐WPC) by bonding GFRP sheets or embedding GFRP bars in the tensile zone of the WPC panels. The effects of the thickness of GFRP sheet and reinforcement ratio of GFRP bar on the flexural property of G‐WPC were comparatively analyzed by carrying out four‐point bending tests and finite element simulations. The results showed that the failure modes of the GFRP sheets reinforced specimens were mainly flexural fracture and interface debonding, and the GFRP bars reinforced specimens were flexural fracture and excessive deformation. The ultimate flexural bearing capacity of both GFRP sheets/bars reinforced specimens could be improved by more than 200%. GFRP bar reinforced specimens had better ductility than reinforced with sheet. The effects of WPC density, GFRP sheet fiber layup angle and GFRP bar diameter on the flexural behavior of G‐WPC were further parametrically analyzed using the finite element model (FEM).

Highlights

Two effective flexural reinforcement methods of WPC were proposed.

The optimum thickness of GFRP sheet was obtained based on experimental tests.

The suitable reinforcement ratio of GFRP bars was studied by tests and FEM.

Effects of WPC density, GFRP fiber layup angle and bar diameter were analyzed.
Effects of different post‐harvest processing methods on changes in the active ingredients of licorice based on LC‐MS and plant metabolomics
Authors: Sun Xiaoxu , Song Zhongxing , Tang Zhishu , Yu Jingao , Fan Xiuhe , Yang Yuangui , Yuan Shuhui , Chen Qiang
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Licorice, the dried roots and rhizomes of the Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch., holds a prominent status in various formulations within the realm of Chinese medicinal practices. The traditional processing methods of licorice hinder quality assurance, thus prompting Chinese medicine researchers to focus on the fresh processing methods to enhancing processing efficiency and quality.

Objective

This study aimed to identify the differential compounds of licorice between traditional and fresh processing methods and provide a scientific basis for the fresh processing of licorice and for further research on the processing mechanism.

Methodology

A methodology integrating ultra‐performance liquid chromatography with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry combined with multivariate statistical analysis was employed to characterize the differential compounds present in licorice between traditional processing and fresh processing.

Results

The results derived from principal component analysis and heat map analyses underscored significant differences in the content of bioactive compounds between the two processing methods. By applying conditions of VIP > 1.5 and p < 0.05, a total of 38 differential compounds were identified through t tests, and the transformation mechanisms of select compounds were illustrated.

Conclusion

The adoption of fresh processing techniques not only improved processing efficiency but also significantly enhanced the preservation of bioactive compounds within licorice. This research has established a rapid and efficient analytical method for the identification of differential compounds present in differently processed licorice products.
Integrated Pharmacognostic and Computational Analysis of Hydrocotyle javanica Thunb. Phytochemicals as a Potential HER2 Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor in Breast Cancer
Authors: Bellai Anjini , Deka Satyendra , Tag Hui , Bhattacharya Kunal , Kalita Hui Pallabi
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer ranks as a leading cause of mortality, primarily affecting females. With the reported side effects of conventional anticancer drugs, herbal sources have emerged as an effective alternative for the treatment of various severe diseases like cancer. Hydrocotyle javanica Thunb. (H. javanica) is a perennial herb belonging to Araliaceae family. This study explored the ethnobotanical use of H. javanica, its pharmacognosy, antioxidant, and phytochemical characterization using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry tool, and molecular docking against breast cancer receptor, human epidermal growth factor receptor‐2 (HER2). The study revealed morphological, microscopic diagnostic features, and physicochemical properties of H. javanica. Methanolic extract of H. javanica (MEHJ) displayed dose‐dependent antioxidant activities. LC–MS analysis characterized metabolites of flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenoid, and triterpenoid saponin. Phytochemicals including chlorogenic acid, astragalin, and hyperoside, displayed the most favorable binding affinity with HER2 during molecular docking. These phytochemicals also possessed significant drug‐likeness characteristics. Furthermore, molecular dynamic simulation demonstrated stable interaction between these phytochemicals and HER2, suggesting a potential inhibitor of HER2, a crucial target in breast cancer treatment. Therefore, the present study offers an opportunity for further research and development of anticancer drugs derived from H. javanica.
Structure‐based design of a Plasmodium vivax Duffy‐binding protein immunogen focuses the antibody response to functional epitopes
Authors: Dickey Thayne H. , McAleese Holly , Salinas Nichole D. , Lambert Lynn E. , Tolia Niraj H.
Published: July 2024

The Duffy‐binding protein (DBP) is a promising antigen for a malaria vaccine that would protect against clinical symptoms caused by Plasmodium vivax infection. Region II of DBP (DBP‐II) contains the receptor‐binding domain that engages host red blood cells, but DBP‐II vaccines elicit many non‐neutralizing antibodies that bind distal to the receptor‐binding surface. Here, we engineered a truncated DBP‐II immunogen that focuses the immune response to the receptor‐binding surface. This immunogen contains the receptor‐binding subdomain S1S2 and lacks the immunodominant subdomain S3. Structure‐based computational design of S1S2 identified combinatorial amino acid changes that stabilized the isolated S1S2 without perturbing neutralizing epitopes. This immunogen elicited DBP‐II‐specific antibodies in immunized mice that were significantly enriched for blocking activity compared to the native DBP‐II antigen. This generalizable design process successfully stabilized an integral core fragment of a protein and focused the immune response to desired epitopes to create a promising new antigen for malaria vaccine development.