bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stretchable Thermoelectric Generators Based on Bulk Bi2Te3and Liquid Metals
Authors: Wang Renheng , Wu Mingli , Jiang Dongting , Liang Hao , He Wei , Sun Yiling , Qian Zhengfang
Published: November 2023

Flexible energy‐generating electronics have attracted great interest. Generally, such devices can be classified into three categories: energy storage, energy harvesting, and wireless charging. In this work, a flexible thermoelectric generator (TEG) for energy harvesting is fabricated. Bi2Te3ingots are used as thermoelectric legs. To introduce flexibility, liquid metals and elastomers are utilized as the interconnects and encapsulation, respectively. The as‐fabricated device exhibits an output density of 34.5 µW cm−2over a temperature difference of 25 °C. The device exhibits promising robustness under mechanical stretching, as the fracture limits reach 100%. The device is tested on the human body, and it delivers an instantaneous output of 75.2 mV. Therefore, the as‐fabricated TEG is suitable for human wearable electronic applications.
NiCo‐glycolate‐derived porous spherical NiCo2S4 for high‐performance asymmetric supercapacitors
Authors: Zhu Maiyong , Lu Congcong , Ma Yunping , Yang Yu
Published: November 2023

The construction of electrode materials with high rate and excellent cycling stability is the key to supercapacitors. Due to their remarkable high conductivity and great electrochemical activity, transition bimetallic sulfides are extremely appealing electrode materials for supercapacitors, but their synthesis is still challenging. In this study, a NiCo bimetallic sulfide (NiCo2S4) microspheres with porous structure were prepared via direct vulcanization of NiCo‐EG complexes followed by a thermal treatment, which were pre‐synthesized via coordination of ethylene glycol (EG) with transition metal ions (Ni2+, Co2+) under hydrothermal condition. Some experimental parameters were investigated, including the control of NiCo2S4 microspheres produced by the ratio of precursor NiCo‐EG to different masses of sulfur sources, which in turn affects the electrochemical properties. When applied as electrode for supercapacitor, the NiCo2S4 microspheres obtained under optimal condition delivered a high capacitance (1386 F g−1 at 1 A g−1), excellent rate capability (845 F g−1 at 10 A g−1) and stable cycling performance (80.05% after 5000 cycles at 10 A/g). Furthermore, for checking the practicality of the produced NiCo2S4 microspheres, an asymmetric supercapacitor device was built using activated carbon (AC) as the negative electrode and NiCo2S4 microspheres as the positive electrode. The assembled NiCo2S4//AC cell had a power density of 799.9 W kg−1 and an energy density of 30.5 Wh kg−1, confirming that the structurally optimized NiCo2S4 porous nanomicrospheres have excellent electrochemical properties and have a wide range of application prospects.
Fusion of the occipitomastoidal synchondrosis as a developmental marker in the Sima de los Huesos Crania (Atapuerca, Spain)
Authors: Martínez Ignacio , Conde‐Valverde Mercedes , Quam Rolf , Arsuaga Juan Luis
Published: November 2023

The basicranium contains multiple synchondroses potentially informative for estimating the developmental stage of individuals. The basilar synchondrosis has been routinely used for this purpose in bioarchaeological, forensic and paleoanthropological research, and studies carried out in modern human populations have shown a close relationship between the fusion of the occipitomastoidal synchondrosis and developmental processes. This synchondrosis articulates the jugular process of the occipital bone with the jugular surface of the temporal bone. As the process of fusion of the synchondrosis progresses, the jugular surface undergoes a series of alterations whose study allows to establish the state of fusion of the synchondrosis when the individual died. The extraordinary preservation of the jugular surface in a large number of individuals represented in the fossil hominin sample from the middle Pleistocene site of the Sima de los Huesos (SH) has made it possible to carry out the first systematic study to assess the usefulness of occipitomastoidal synchondrosis in the establishment of the state of development in fossil hominins. Our results show that the complete closure of the occipitomastoidal synchondrosis occurred toward the end of the growth period in the SH fossils. This result opens up the possibility of using it to determine the developmental stage of fossil hominins for which no other information is available, such as the state of the dentition or the degree of closure of the basilar synchondrosis. This has allowed us to infer a state of development for three SH crania where it could not previously be established with certainty.
A network coupling approach to detecting hierarchical linkages between science and technology
Authors: Meng Kai , Ba Zhichao , Ma Yaxue , Li Gang
Published: November 2023

Detecting science–technology hierarchical linkages is beneficial for understanding deep interactions between science and technology (S&T). Previous studies have mainly focused on linear linkages between S&T but ignored their structural linkages. In this paper, we propose a network coupling approach to inspect hierarchical interactions of S&T by integrating their knowledge linkages and structural linkages. S&T knowledge networks are first enhanced with bidirectional encoder representation from transformers (BERT) knowledge alignment, and then their hierarchical structures are identified based on K‐core decomposition. Hierarchical coupling preferences and strengths of the S&T networks over time are further calculated based on similarities of coupling nodes' degree distribution and similarities of coupling edges' weight distribution. Extensive experimental results indicate that our approach is feasible and robust in identifying the coupling hierarchy with superior performance compared to other isomorphism and dissimilarity algorithms. Our research extends the mindset of S&T linkage measurement by identifying patterns and paths of the interaction of S&T hierarchical knowledge.
The effect of cutting interest rates on corporate investments: A real options model
Authors: Han Nan‐Wei , Hung Mao‐Wei , Wu I‐Shin
Published: November 2023

We propose a real options model with regime shifts to investigate the effect of cutting interest rates on corporate investments when a financial crisis occurs. Cutting interest rates would lower the investment project's hurdle rate. The reduction in hurdle rate is positively related to the magnitude of interest rate cuts and the persistence of the financial crisis. The hurdle rate becomes lower in the financial crisis state because the reduction in interest rate would lower the cost of capital and the opportunity cost of immediate investment. In the numerical analysis of this study, we show that the change in the opportunity cost accounts for most of the change in the hurdle rate. Upon taking into consideration the firm's financing constraints, we find that cutting interest rates accelerates investments for firms with high liquidity. However, for firms with low liquidity, the optimal investment threshold is not affected by the variation in interest rates. Instead, the investments of low‐liquidity firms are affected by the change in the friction of credit supply.
Effect of solid‐state fermentation on the protein quality and volatile profile of pea and navy bean protein isolates
Authors: Khorsandi Azita , Shi Dai , Stone Andrea K. , Bhagwat Aarti , Lu Yuping , Xu Caishuang , Das Prem Prakash , Polley Brittany , Akhov Leonid , Gerein Jessica , Han Xiumei , Bhowmik Pankaj , Zaharia L. Irina , House James D. , Rajagopalan Nandhakishore , Tanaka Takuji , Korber Darren R. , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

Fermentation has been increasingly used as a “clean” processing technique to modify proteins. The goal of this research was to assess the use of solid‐state fermentation (SSF) by Aspergillus oryzae on pea (pea protein isolate [PPI]) and navy bean protein isolates (NBPI) for different time periods (0–48 or 0−72 h, respectively) and its impact on their nutrition and volatile profile.

Findings

The SSF process resulted in higher total phenolic content and lower protein digestibility, and consequently, the protein quality was reduced for both pulses. The quantity of the volatile compounds initially present in the samples did not change substantially after SSF; however, many new compounds were identified in fermented PPI, which have been reported to have pleasant sensory properties.

Conclusions

The protein quality of PPI or NBPI was not improved by A. oryzae SSF; however, the results suggest the potential for using SSF to positively modify the volatile profile of PPI.

Significance and Novelty

The findings of this research strengthened our knowledge base of fermented pulse ingredients with the use of protein isolates and navy beans, narrowing the somewhat limited gap for fermentation application to high protein substrates.
An unusual case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis with unilateral parotid gland enlargement
Authors: Giv Toktam Safari , Mardani Ghazal , Rakhshan Azadeh , Kouhestany Mohammad , Moravvej Hamideh
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Here, we report a case of granulomatosis with polyangiitis presenting with unilateral parotid gland enlargement and later developed skin lesions on the lower extremities and abdomen. Although rare, salivary gland enlargement may be the presenting sign of Wegener's granulomatosis or other ANCA associated vasculitides.
Cage Match: Comparing the Anion Binding Ability of Isostructural Versus Isofunctional Pairs of Metal‐Organic Nanocages
Authors: Dutton Kaitlyn G. , Jones Taro J. , Emge Thomas J. , Lipke Mark C.
Published: November 2023

Affinities of six anions (mesylate, acetate, trifluoroacetate, p‐toluenecarboxylate, p‐toluenesulfonate, and perfluorooctanoate) for three related Pt2+‐linked porphyrin nanocages were measured to probe the influence of different noncovalent recognition motifs (e. g., hydrogen bonding, electrostatics, π bonding) on anion binding. Two new hosts of M6L312+ (1b) and M4L28+ (2) composition (M=(en)Pt2+, L=(3‐py)4porphyrin) were prepared in a one‐pot synthesis and allowed comparison of hosts that differ in structure while maintaining similar N−H hydrogen‐bond donor ability. Comparisons of isostructural hosts that differ in hydrogen‐bonding ability were made between 1b and a related M6L312+ nanoprism (1a, M=(tmeda)Pt2+) that lacks N−H groups. Considerable variation in association constants (K1=1.6×103 M−1 to 1.3×108 M−1) and binding mode (exo vs. endo) were found for different host–guest combinations. Strongest binding was seen between p‐toluenecarboxylate and 1b, but surprisingly, association of this guest with 1a was only slightly weaker despite the absence of NH⋅⋅⋅O interactions. The high affinity between p‐toluenecarboxylate and 1a could be turned off by protonation, and this behavior was used to toggle between the binding of this guest and the environmental pollutant perfluorooctanoate, which otherwise has a lower affinity for the host.
Regulating the Interfacial Charge Density by Constructing a Novel Zn Anode‐Electrolyte Interface for Highly Reversible Zn Anode
Authors: Zhan Shengkang , Guo Yiming , Wu Kai , Ning Fanghua , Liu Xiaoyu , Liu Yuyu , Li Qian , Zhang Jiujun , Lu Shigang , Yi Jin
Published: November 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs) have attracted considerable attention. However, due to the uneven distribution of charge density at Zn anode‐electrolyte interface, severe dendrites and corrosion are generated during cycling. In this work, a facile and scalable strategy to address the above‐mentioned issues has been proposed through regulating the charge density at Zn anode‐electrolyte interface. As a proof of concept, amidinothiourea (ATU) with abundant lone‐pair electrons is employed as an interfacial charge modifier for Zn anode‐electrolyte interface. The uniform and increased interfacial charge distribution on Zn anode‐electrolyte interface has been obtained. Moreover, the unique Zn‐bond constructed between N atoms and Zn2+ as well as the hydrogen bonds are formed among ATU and Ac− anion/active H2O, which promote the migration and desolvation behavior of Zn2+ at anode‐electrolyte interface. Accordingly, at a trace concentration of 0.01 mg mL−1 ATU, these features endow Zn anode with a long cycling life (more than 800 h), and a high average Columbic efficiency (99.52 %) for Zn||Cu batteries. When pairing with I2 cathode, the improved cycling ability (5000 cycles) with capacity retention of 77.9 % is achieved. The fundamental understanding on the regulation of charge density at anode‐electrolyte interface can facilitate the development of AZIBs.
Fachkräfte für die Chemieindustrie
Authors: Gandert Etwina
Published: November 2023

Der demografische Wandel verändert auch die Altersstruktur in Unternehmen der Chemieindustrie. Es gilt, nicht nur junge Fachkräfte zu gewinnen, sondern auch Wissen und Erfahrung auf die nachfolgende Generation zu transferieren. CITplus fragt bei mittelständischen Chemieunternehmen nach, wie sie diesen Herausforderungen begegnen und welche Lösungen sie zum Wissensmanagement gefunden haben.
Genetic diversity and population structure analysis of Philippine native pigs highlight five priority populations for conservation
Authors: Banayo Joy B. , Manese Kathlyn Louise V. , Furusho Kaito O. , Salces Agapita J. , Yamagata Takahiro
Published: November 2023

The Philippine native pig (PhNP) is a unique genetic resource composed of multiple domesticated Sus scrofa lineages and interspecific hybrids. No prior study has determined the population structure and genetic diversity of PhNPs on multiple islands and provinces, which is essential for establishing conservation priorities. In this study, we explore the population structure and genetic diversity of various PhNP populations in Luzon and the Visayas, Philippines, to identify conservation priorities. We analyzed seven PhNP populations (n = 20–27 samples each; Benguet [B], Kalinga [K], Nueva Vizcaya [N], Isabela [I], Quezon [Q], Marinduque [M], and Samar [S]) and four transboundary breeds present in the Philippines (n = 9–11 samples each; Duroc, Large White, Landrace, and Berkshire). The pigs were compared against a panel of 20 microsatellite markers recommended by the ISAG–FAO. We tested for population structure at the island, region, and province levels. Strong genetic differentiation between native and transboundary breeds was confirmed by Bayesian clustering (k = 2) and Nei's DA genetic distance (100% bootstrap support for the PhNP cluster). PhNP exhibited high heterozygosity (Ho: 0.737), a high allele count (Na: 7.771), and a low inbreeding coefficient (Fis: −0.040–0.125). Bayesian clustering supported genetic differentiation at the island (k = 2; North Luzon and South Luzon‐Visayas cluster), region (k = 3), and population (k = 8) levels. The pairwise F'st between PhNP populations ranged from 0.084 (N and I) to 0.397 (Q and K), confirming that some PhNP populations exhibited sufficient genetic distance to be considered separate populations. This study shows that native pigs from B, K, I, Q, M, and S are unique genetic units for conservation. Furthermore, the small effective population sizes of B, I, Q, M, and S (Ne: 3.9, 19.1, 14.2, 44.7, and 22.5, respectively) necessitate immediate conservation actions, such as incentivizing PhNP farming.
Theorising the climate change accountability of Persian Gulf petrostates
Authors: Mason Michael
Published: November 2023

For states with political economies largely dependent on oil and natural gas rents, there seems to be little scope for accountability practices that answer for, and curb, fossil fuel production contributing to anthropogenic climate change. Critically engaging with rentier state theory, I examine the climate change accountability of Persian Gulf petrostates according to state responsibility norms under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). For both domestic and international actions undertaken by these countries, there is no meaningful climate answerability for responsible actions—that they recognise and/or commit to the phasing down of their oil and natural gas production. There are differences in their emission reduction goals, under the Paris Agreement, that map onto variations in the stability and structure of their political economies, notably between the ‘super‐rentier’ states (UAE, Kuwait and Qatar) and their rentier neighbours (Saudi Arabia and Oman). However, all make ritualistic, long‐term commitments to ‘clean‐carbon’ (net zero‐emission) futures with no plans to reduce hydrocarbon exports. I argue that international climate change obligations should include a responsibility on states to reduce GHG emissions (at source) arising from their domestic‐ and foreign ownership of operational oil and gas fields. State energy companies in the Persian Gulf and elsewhere are key actors in fossil fuel extraction, yet remain insulated, through their corporate identities, from state responsibility norms. Treating state ownership of fossil fuels as a legitimate target of international climate regulation would broaden state accountability for climate change harm.
Access to Mono‐, Di‐ and Tri‐(Het)Arylated Pyrazolo[5,1‐b]oxazoles Using Cyclization, C−H Activation and Suzuki–Miyaura Palladium‐Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Michel Marion , Caré Flore , Bourg Stéphane , Bostyn Stéphane , Lafite Pierre , Routier Sylvain , Buron Frédéric
Published: November 2023

A first access to mono‐, di‐ and tri‐(Het)arylated pyrazolo[5,1‐b]oxazoles is reported. The series were generated from a library of 3‐(Het)arylpyrazolo[5,1‐b]oxazole platforms selectively functionalized through regioselective arylation procedures. The regioselective functionalization in C‐2 and C‐7 positions was investigated. Each Palladium‐catalyzed cross‐coupling condition was optimized and a representative library of the scope and limitations of the reactions was studied.
Nonisothermal and Isothermal Hydrogen Storage Behaviors of MgH2‐Based Composites Catalyzed by Carbon Isomeric Catalysts: Lightweight and Efficient Catalysis to Achieve High Capacity of Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Yun Hui , Wang Haiyan , Bai Jing , Wang Xuesong , Dai Xiaomin , Hou Xiaojiang , Xu Yunhua
Published: November 2023

MgH2‐based composites are prepared by high‐energy ball milling surface catalysis with carbon isomeric catalysts to explore isothermal and nonisothermal H2 storage behavior. The reduction particle size and catalysts are conducive to absorption/desorption. The release peak temperatures of MgH2 catalyzed by activated carbon (AC), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and expanded graphite (EG) are 445, 424, 458, and 446 °C, lower than that of MgH2 (≈463 °C). The hydrogenation capacities for the 3rd cycle of MgH2, MgH2–AC, MgH2–CNTs, and MgH2–EG are 3.35, 6.52, 6.66, and 6.92 wt%, corresponding to 47%, 90%, 92%, and 96% conversion rates. The dehydrogenation capacities increase to 5.86, 4.94, 3.18, and 5.74 wt% of MgH2–AC, MgH2–CNTs, MgH2–rGO, and MgH2–EG within 0.5 h, higher than MgH2 (2.29 wt%). The final dehydrogenation capacities of MgH2, MgH2–AC, MgH2–CNTs, MgH2–rGO, and MgH2–EG are 2.84, 6.69, 5.14, 3.65, and 6.61 wt%. The absorption capacities of MgH2, MgH2–AC, MgH2–CNTs, MgH2–rGO, and MgH2–EG within 0.5 h are 2.42, 6.47, 6.21, 3.03, and 4.20 wt%, and the final hydrogenation capacities reach 2.58, 6.65, 6.33, 3.10, and 4.34 wt%. The initial kinetics and the final degrees of absorption/desorption of MgH2 are elevated by carbon isomeric catalysts.
Synergistic Polysulfides Adsorption–Conversion with Mo2C–MoO2 Heterostructure for Kinetically Enhanced Lithium–Sulfur Battery
Authors: Liu Hui , Tian Xin , Liu Yi , Munir Hafiz Akif , Hu Weihang , Fan Xiuyi , Liu Xiaoxu , Pang Lingyan
Published: November 2023

Lithium–sulfur batteries (Li–S batteries) have a high theoretical capacity density. However, due to the solubility of long‐chain polysulfides migration between the positive and negative electrodes driven by concentration gradients, the cycle stability of lithium–sulfur batteries is compromised, hindering their practical application. To mitigate the shuttle effect and enhance the electrochemical performance of Li–S batteries, a hollow microflower (MF) Mo2C/MoO2 heterostructure is synthesized using a two‐step calcining method. The presence of a hetero‐interface improves the electrical conduction rate, facilitating more effective charge transfer at the interface between heterogeneous components. Additionally, the increased catalytic active sites enhance the conversion of polysulfides and promote the catalytic capability. As a result, Li–S batteries with H‐Mo2C/MoO2/nitrogen‐doped carbon MFs as additives in the cathode exhibit excellent rate performance and good cycling stability. After 100 cycles at 0.2C, the capacity remains at 1071.6 mAh g−1, with a capacity retention rate of 90.6%. Notably, the Li–S batteries demonstrate a capacity decay of only 0.011% per cycle over 1000 cycles at 1C, with a specific capacity of 790 mAh g−1 retained after the cycling process. In this work, a rational approach is provided to fabricating transition‐metal carbon‐oxide heterostructures with an optimized structure to enhance the performance of Li–S batteries.
Global mapping of river sediment bars
Authors: Carbonneau Patrice E. , Bizzi Simone
Published: November 2023

Recently, deep learning has been increasingly applied to global mapping of land‐use and land‐cover classes. However, very few studies have addressed the problem of separating lakes from rivers, and to our knowledge, none have addressed the issue of mapping fluvial sediment bars. We present the first global scale inventory of fluvial gravel bars. Our workflow is based on a state‐of‐the‐art fully convolutional neural network which is applied to Sentinel‐2 imagery at a resolution of 10 m. We use Google Earth Engine to access these data for a study site that covers 89% of the Earth's surface. We count 8.9 million gravel bars with an estimated area of 41 000 km2. Crucially, the workflow we present can be executed within a month of highly automated processing and thus allows for global scale, monthly, monitoring of gravel bars and associated rivers.
Mixture design of α‐pinene, α‐terpineol, and 1,8‐cineole: A multiobjective response followed by chemometric approaches to optimize the antibacterial effect against various bacteria and antioxidant activity
Authors: Ben Akacha Boutheina , Michalak Monika , Generalić Mekinić Ivana , Kačániová Miroslava , Chaari Moufida , Brini Faical , Ben Saad Rania , Mnif Wissem , Garzoli Stefania , Ben Hsouna Anis
Published: November 2023

α‐Pinene, α‐terpineol, and 1,8‐cineole are compounds naturally present in essential oils, although their amounts vary from oil to oil. Although several studies have reported their antibacterial and antioxidant effects, there are few reports on the synergistic or antagonistic effects of their combinations. The objective of this study was to investigate the combined antibacterial effect of these three compounds. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the prediction of their optimal combination using the mixture design approach. The experimental antibacterial activity of the α‐pinene, α‐terpineol, and 1,8‐cineole mixtures depended on the proportion of each compound in the mixture and the target strain, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) ranging from 0.31 to 1.85 mg/mL. Using the increased simplex‐centroid mixture design, the mixture containing 0.33% of each molecule proved to be the most effective against Bacillus cereus and had the lowest MIC values. In addition, α‐pinene, α‐terpineol, and 1,8‐cineole showed significant antioxidant activity against 2,2‐picryl‐1‐hydrazyl radical (DPPH), with IC50 values of 24.53 ± 0.05, 65.63 ± 0.71, and 63.58 ± 0.01 μg/mL, respectively. Statistical planning and the development of utility profiles of the substance mixtures can predict the optimal composition that will exhibit the highest antibacterial activity against B. cereus as well as antioxidant properties. Furthermore, the synergistic effect of the mixtures can contribute significantly to their successful use as natural preservatives in various applications.
Inhibiting CSF1R alleviates cerebrovascular white matter disease and cognitive impairment
Authors: Askew Katharine E. , Beverley Joshua , Sigfridsson Emma , Szymkowiak Stefan , Emelianova Katherine , Dando Owen , Hardingham Giles E. , Duncombe Jessica , Hennessy Edel , Koudelka Juraj , Samarasekera Neshika , Salman Rustam Al‐Shahi , Smith Colin , Tavares Adriana A. S. , Gomez‐Nicola Diego , Kalaria Raj N. , McColl Barry W. , Horsburgh Karen
Published: November 2023

White matter abnormalities, related to poor cerebral perfusion, are a core feature of small vessel cerebrovascular disease, and critical determinants of vascular cognitive impairment and dementia. Despite this importance there is a lack of treatment options. Proliferation of microglia producing an expanded, reactive population and associated neuroinflammatory alterations have been implicated in the onset and progression of cerebrovascular white matter disease, in patients and in animal models, suggesting that targeting microglial proliferation may exert protection. Colony‐stimulating factor‐1 receptor (CSF1R) is a key regulator of microglial proliferation. We found that the expression of CSF1R/Csf1r and other markers indicative of increased microglial abundance are significantly elevated in damaged white matter in human cerebrovascular disease and in a clinically relevant mouse model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion and vascular cognitive impairment. Using the mouse model, we investigated long‐term pharmacological CSF1R inhibition, via GW2580, and demonstrated that the expansion of microglial numbers in chronic hypoperfused white matter is prevented. Transcriptomic analysis of hypoperfused white matter tissue showed enrichment of microglial and inflammatory gene sets, including phagocytic genes that were the predominant expression modules modified by CSF1R inhibition. Further, CSF1R inhibition attenuated hypoperfusion‐induced white matter pathology and rescued spatial learning impairments and to a lesser extent cognitive flexibility. Overall, this work suggests that inhibition of CSF1R and microglial proliferation mediates protection against chronic cerebrovascular white matter pathology and cognitive deficits. Our study nominates CSF1R as a target for the treatment of vascular cognitive disorders with broader implications for treatment of other chronic white matter diseases.
Understanding the agronomic impacts of defoliation strategies in “Bulldog 805” Alfalfa + “Tifton 85” bermudagrass mixed stands
Authors: Baxter Lisa L. , Burt Justin C. , Mullenix Mary Kimberly , Payne Sydney L. , Reagin Kaylyn R. , Mason Katie M. , Prevatt Chris G. , Tucker Jennifer J.
Published: November 2023

Background

The incorporation of legumes, specifically alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), into bermudagrass (Cynodon spp.)‐based pasture systems in the southeastern United States has increased in recent years as an alternative to synthetic nitrogen (N) fertilization.

Methods

A small plot evaluation was conducted in Shorter, Alabama, and Tifton, Georgia, USA, to evaluate the impact of harvest height (HH) and harvest frequency (HF) on agronomic characteristics of alfalfa+bermudagrass mixtures in southeastern United States.

Results

Results from both locations revealed that the longer the HF and the shorter the HH, the greater the alfalfa retention was in the stand (p < 0.01). HH did not impact any of the reported nutritive value parameters, while longer HF resulted in lower total digestible nutrients, lower crude protein, higher acid detergent fiber, and lower 48 h in vitro dry matter digestibility (p < 0.01). Both HH and HF impacted forage accumulation at both locations (p < 0.01). HH resulted in different trends at each location, while longer frequencies generally increased forage accumulation.

Conclusions

This research confirmed recent findings from comparable evaluations in the southeastern United States, in that increasing HH and decreasing HF improved alfalfa retention while having a negligible effect on nutritive value or forage accumulation.
I wish I were born in another time: Unintended consequences of immigration enforcement on birth outcomes
Authors: Vu Hoa
Published: November 2023

This paper studies the effects of Secure Communities (SC), a wide‐ranging immigration enforcement program, on infant health outcomes in the United States. Using administrative birth certificate data together with event study and triple‐differences designs, I find that SC increases the incidence of very low birth weight by 21% for infants of foreign‐born Hispanic mothers, who were most likely to be affected by immigration enforcement. There is suggestive evidence that the results are consistent with (i) changes in maternal stress induced by deportation fear and (ii) inadequate prenatal nutrition. A back‐of‐the‐envelope calculation suggests that this unintended social cost of immigration enforcement ranges from $872 million to $1.59 billion annually.
Scope of optometry practice in Trinidad and Tobago: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ezinne Ngozika E. , Kwarteng Michael A. , Tagoh Selassie , Ekemiri Kingsley K. , Ogbonna Grace
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

To report the scope of optometry practice in Trinidad and Tobago to identify areas that need improvement.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of optometrists in Trinidad and Tobago was conducted using a validated self‐structured questionnaire. Data obtained was exported to the Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Descriptive analysis and Pearson χ2 were used to summarize the demographic data and determine associations, respectively.

Result

A total of 63 optometrists participated in the study. Majority of them were females (69.8%, n = 44), Christians (65.1%), East Indians (47.6%), and 30 years and below (66.7%). Most (87%) of them utilized routine optometric equipment in their clinical practice including autorefractors, retinoscopes, direct ophthalmoscopes, lensometers, phoropters, slit lamp biomicroscopes, trial lens boxes, and visual acuity chart projectors. A few of them have noncontact tonometer (4.8%), Volk lenses (1.6%), and perform color vision tests (1.6%). Fewer (12.7%, n = 8) practitioners provided low‐vision services. The use of pharmaceutical agents was prevalent among the participants (55.6%). Additionally, the provision of contact lenses was the most frequently practiced service among the participants (85.7%, n = 54). A significant association was observed between the provision of low‐vision services and sex (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

The scope of optometry practice in Trinidad and Tobago is in accordance with the basic guidelines set out by the World Council of Optometry but there is need to get more involved in the provision of low vision and other specialty services.
Obesity from a sign of being rich to a disease of the new age: A historical review
Authors: Marghoub Somayeh , Sanaie Sarvin , Sullman Mark J. M. , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Safiri Saeid , Mohammadinasab Reza
Published: November 2023

Background and Objective

Obesity has historically been seen as a sign of wealth and social privilege, as can be inferred from studying the ancient works. We aimed to report the causes, diagnostic approaches, and treatment among the authentic books of traditional Iranian medicine.

Methods

We searched the original versions of historical books and used a narrative approach to report the history of obesity.

Results

Obesity was often seen as an indicator of complete health. Obesity in healthy women was a requirement for beauty, based on descriptions of women from the Zoroaster period and from antiquity to the late Qajar period. This point of view existed during various ages. However, after the constitutional period, the view of obesity changed into that of an illness, due to modern ideas and offshore role models, especially during the Pahlavi era. This change led to serious attempts to treat obesity. Obesity is a critical problem that needs immediate attention to prevent substantial health consequences. Different medical paradigms have presented their criteria and foundations throughout history. The emphasis of Iranian alternative medicine was on prevention and the maintenance of health, with the next step being treatment. Prevention, treatment, consuming medicinal plants, and recovery have often been written about in the traditional books of medicine.

Conclusions

Throughout the traditional Iranian medical texts, physicians have made recommendations about maintaining an appropriate body weight. The best treatment was prevention and a healthy lifestyle. The treatments for controlling and restricting obesity included paying attention to nourishment, mobility, and even the habitat.
The impact of rain‐on‐snow events on the snowmelt process: A field study
Authors: Yang Zhiwei , Chen Rensheng , Liu Yiwen , Zhao Yanni , Liu Zhangwen , Liu Junfeng
Published: November 2023

Previous studies have primarily focused on the hydrological response of snowpack during rain‐on‐snow (ROS) events, with limited attention given to their subsequent stages, despite the significance of these stages. Therefore, this study selected two snow plots with similar initial parameters in the Qilian Mountains at an altitude of 4151 m. One of the snow plots underwent artificial rainfall simulation, and the changes in snow albedo, liquid water content, and snow depth of two snow plots were observed and analysed during the rainfall experiment and for a period of 7 days thereafter. The results indicate that ROS events significantly accelerate the rate of decrease in snow albedo and snow depth, increase the liquid water content within the snowpack, and these effects persist for several days after the rainfall event. Furthermore, the input of liquid water leads to rapid saturation of the snowpack, altering the transport mechanism of water within the snowpack, and transforming a process that would otherwise take a long time to complete into a short time. The decrease in snow albedo enhances the absorption of more energy by the snow, thereby accelerating snowmelt. Compared to natural snowmelt, ROS events cause the snowpack with high liquid water content to rapidly melt over a short period, resulting in a rapid increase in river flow, which may be one of the causes of ROS‐induced flooding. These research findings provide scientific insights for a better understanding of the disaster mechanisms associated with ROS events.
The influence of sampling method and season on modeling of selenium into coldwater fish and implications on tissue-based water quality benchmarks
Authors: Peixoto Mendes Maíra , Cupe-Flores Beatriz , Woolhouse Katherine , Fernandes Stacey , Liber Karsten
Published: November 2023

Selenium (Se) contamination of aquatic ecosystems has led to the local extirpation of some Se-sensitive fish species. Although Se exposure occurs primarily via diet, considerable uncertainty lies in modeling Se transfer and bioaccumulation from sediment, detritus, and/or periphyton through benthic macroinvertebrates (BMI) to fish. Here we estimated Se concentrations in four coldwater fish species (northern pike, white sucker, lake whitefish, and ninespine stickleback) inhabiting boreal lakes downstream from a uranium mill in northern Canada. In addition, we evaluated the potential effects of BMI and periphyton sampling methods (artificial substrates vs. grab samples), seasons (summer vs. winter), and models (USEPA vs. Assessment of the Dispersion and Effects of Parameter Transport) on the estimated Se concentrations in fish tissue. Results were compared with site-specific benchmarks and observed Se concentrations in resident fish. In summer 2019, periphyton and BMI were sampled at 10 sampling stations (two in Vulture Lake and eight in McClean Lake) using artificial substrates (n = 4) and sediment grab samples (n = 3). In winter 2021, samples were collected in McClean Lake (n = 3) through ice holes using a sediment grab sampler. Estimated Se concentrations in fish tissue depended on the surface sediment or periphyton Se concentrations used in the models. At Vulture Lake, Se concentrations in northern pike muscle estimated using the grab sample data (17.3 ± 11.5 µg/g DW), but not the artificial substrates (34.5 ± 1.2 µg/g DW), were comparable with the observed mean concentration (19.0 ± 1.4 µg/g DW) in this species. At McClean Lake, Se body burdens in forage fish estimated using data from both sampling methods were comparable with measured data. Significantly lower mean whole-body Se concentrations were estimated for all fish species in winter (1.0 ± 0.3 µg/g DW) relative to summer (4.8 ± 1.6 µg/g DW). Further investigation is necessary to understand how potential seasonal shifts in dietary Se exposure relate to fish reproduction and early life stages.
Small renal cell carcinoma accompanied by extensive inferior vena cava tumor thrombus diagnosed by percutaneous transvenous biopsy
Authors: Tsukada Hikaru , Hayakawa Nozomi , Aida Koichiro , Wada Shinji , Morimoto Tsuyoshi , Doi Masatomo , Mimura Hidefumi , Koike Junki , Kikuchi Eiji
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Up to 10% of patients with renal cell carcinoma present with tumor thrombus in the inferior vena cava. We report that a case of small renal cell carcinoma with tumor thrombus extending above the diaphragm for which transvenous biopsy was performed for diagnosis.

Case presentation

A 79‐year‐old man performed computed tomography to evaluate hepatic dysfunction, which revealed intravenous tumor extending above the diaphragm and a 15‐mm‐sized exophytic tumor in right kidney. Imaging suggested that the renal tumor was renal cell carcinoma. As this tumor was small and exophytic, confirmation of the intravenous tumor being tumor thrombus associated with renal cell carcinoma was difficult. We simultaneously performed transvenous biopsy on the intravenous tumor and percutaneous biopsy on the renal tumor for obtaining histologic diagnoses. The final diagnosis was small renal cell carcinoma accompanied by tumor thrombus above the diaphragm.

Conclusion

Transvenous biopsy may be useful for the definitive diagnosis of inferior vena cava‐tumor thrombus in cases of small renal cell carcinoma.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Ozoralizumab in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Takeuchi Tsutomu , Chino Yukihiro , Mano Yoko , Kawanishi Masafumi , Sato Yuri , Uchida Saeko , Tanaka Yoshiya
Published: November 2023

Ozoralizumab is a bispecific NANOBODY compound that binds tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) and human serum albumin. Ozoralizumab inhibits the TNFα physiological activity while maintaining long‐term plasma retention owing to its human serum albumin–binding ability. A population pharmacokinetic (PK) model was developed using data from 494 Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis in Phase II/III and Phase III trials to assess the effects of potential PK covariates. The ozoralizumab PK after subcutaneous administration was described using a 1‐compartment model with first‐order absorption and first‐order elimination processes. A proportional error model was used for inter‐ and intra‐individual variabilities, with covariance set between inter‐individual variabilities of the apparent clearance and apparent distribution volume. Body weight, sex, antidrug antibody status, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and concomitant methotrexate use were identified as covariates for apparent clearance, while body weight and sex were covariates for apparent distribution volume in the final model. Body weight had the greatest effect on the PK of ozoralizumab, while the other covariates had minor effects. When administered at 30 mg every 4 weeks, the predicted steady‐state plasma trough concentration in a patient weighing 83.2 kg exceeded the trough concentration required to maintain efficacy of ozoralizumab, and the estimated exposure in a patient weighing 42.5 kg did not exceed the mean exposure at 80 mg, a well‐tolerated dose, throughout 52 weeks. We developed a population PK model that adequately described the ozoralizumab PK in Japanese patients with rheumatoid arthritis, and none of the evaluated covariates showed clinically relevant effects on the PK of ozoralizumab.
New species and new records of genus Buellia (lichenized Ascomycota, Caliciaceae) from Pakistan using electron microscopy and DNA barcoding techniques
Authors: Afshan Najam‐ul‐Sehar , Fayyaz Iram , Iftikhar Fatima , Habib Kamran , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Wang Xin Yu , Usman Muhammad , Asif Wajiha , Niazi Abdul Rehman , Khalid Abdul Nasir
Published: November 2023

Three new species Buellia darelensis, B. densitheca, B. kashmirensis and two new records B. elegans and B. taishanensis are added to the lichen biota of Pakistan. Buellia darelensis and B. kashmirensis share the same habitats found on the rock while B. densitheca colonized on bark of Pinus hardwoods in the Himalayan forest, Pakistan. Morphological, chemical, and phylogenetic analyses were carried out to elucidate the placement of these species and to support the delimitation of the new taxa. Detailed descriptions and figures for the species are given, and a key to all known buellioid species from Pakistan is provided.

Research Highlights

During recent explorations of lichens from different regions of Pakistan, we observed specimens that could not be readily assigned to any known species. A phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer nrDNA region confirms their position within the genus Buellia, and morphological data showed distinctiveness of three species from other known species of the genus. We therefore describe these specimens as new species to science, and two species are as new records for the country. Pakistan exhibits a large altitudinal variation, with climatic conditions and a diverse vegetation that supports a diverse and conspicuous lichen biota. The nature reserves have abundant biological resources, and it is expected that more new species of lichen may be discovered in the future.
Comparative microscopic investigations of leaf epidermis in four Ajuga species from Korea
Authors: Choi Bokyung , Hwang Yeojin , McAdam Scott A. M. , Jang Tae‐Soo
Published: November 2023

The genus Ajuga is widely distributed in temperate to subtropical regions, and four species are currently recognized in Korea (A. decumbens, A. multiflora, A. nipponensis, and A. spectabilis), but epidermal anatomical differences across these species have never been described. A comparative study of the leaf micromorphological characteristics of Korean Ajuga species was performed using light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to elucidate their taxonomic usefulness and to assess leaf micromorphological diversity. Considerable diversity in epidermal and stomatal anatomy was observed across Korean Ajuga species. Species had both hypostomatic or amphistomatic leaves, with anomocytic, anisocytic, diactyic, or actinocytic stomatal complexes. Guard cell length across species ranged from 17.66 ± 0.57 μm to 32.50 ± 2.38 μm and correlated with genome size. Abnormal stomata were frequently observed in three species (A. decumbens, A. multiflora, and A. nipponensis) but not in A. spectabilis. Three types of glandular trichomes were found: peltate in all species, short‐stalked in all species, and long‐stalked glandular trichomes in A. multiflora. Among the investigated leaf micromophological characters, trichome type, epidermal cell shape, and stomatal morphology were all taxonomically informative traits at a species level.

Research Highlights

A comprehensive micromorphological description of the leaf surface is provided for Korean Ajuga species using scanning electron microscopic (SEM) and light microscopic (LM) analyses.

The diverse range of stomatal development and the occurrence of polymorphic stomatal types are documented for the first time in Korean Ajuga species.

The great diversity in stomatal and trichome morphology in Korean Ajuga species are taxonomically useful traits for species identification.
The role of internalised HIV stigma in disclosure of maternal HIV serostatus to children perinatally HIV‐exposed but uninfected: a prospective study in the United States
Authors: Davtyan Mariam , Kacanek Deborah , Lee Jessica , Berman Claire , Chadwick Ellen G. , Smith Renee , Salomon Liz , Frederick Toinette ,   for the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Decisions to disclose HIV serostatus may be complicated by internalised HIV stigma. We evaluated the association of internalised HIV stigma in biological mothers living with HIV with disclosure of their serostatus to their children perinatally HIV‐exposed but uninfected (CHEU).

Methods

Mothers and their CHEU were enrolled in the United States (U.S.)‐based Surveillance Monitoring for Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Toxicities (SMARTT) study of the Pediatric HIV/AIDS Cohort Study (PHACS), a longitudinal study of outcomes related to in utero exposure to HIV and ART among CHEU. Mothers completing at least one stigma and disclosure assessment starting at the child's age 11‐, 13‐, 15‐ and/or 17‐year study visits between 16 August 2016 and 1 October 2020 were eligible. Stigma was measured with the 28‐item Internalised HIV Stigma Scale (IHSS). Mean stigma scores were linearly transformed to a range of 0–100, with higher scores indicating greater levels of stigma. At each visit, mothers were asked if their child was aware of their HIV diagnosis and at what age the child became aware. The Kaplan‐Meier estimator evaluated the cumulative probability of disclosure at each child age. Logistic regression models with generalised estimating equations to account for repeated measures were fit to examine the association between stigma and disclosure, controlling for relevant socio‐demographic variables.

Results

Included were 438 mothers of 576 children (mean age 41.5 years, 60% U.S.‐born, 60% Black/African American and 37% with household income ≤$10,000). The prevalence of disclosure across all visits was 29%. Mothers whose children were aware versus not aware of their serostatus reported lower mean IHSS scores (38.2 vs. 45.6, respectively). The cumulative proportion of disclosure by age 11 was 18.4% (95% CI: 15.5%, 21.8%) and 41% by age 17 (95% CI: 35.2%, 47.4%). At all child ages, disclosure was higher among children of U.S.‐born versus non‐U.S.‐born mothers. After adjusting for age, marital status and years since HIV diagnosis, higher IHSS scores were associated with lower odds of disclosure (OR = 0.985, 95% CI: 0.975, 0.995).

Conclusions

Providing support to women as they make decisions about serostatus disclosure to their children may entail addressing internalised HIV stigma and consideration of community‐level factors, particularly for non‐U.S.‐born mothers.
軽症の鈍的胸部外傷後に遅発性血胸を繰り返した横隔膜損傷の1例(Recurrent delayed hemothorax due to diaphragmatic injury after minor blunt chest trauma: a case report)
Authors: 安博 岩﨑 , 純一 福島 , 菜都乃 有井 , 淳一 北山 , 政信 重里
Published: November 2023

症例は50歳台の男性。当院受診7日前に転倒し軽度の右背部痛が持続していた。当院受診前日に近医を受診し，胸部CTで右第8，9，10肋骨骨折と軽度の右血気胸を認め翌日当院紹介受診となった。しかし当院受診時に右血胸が増加し，強い呼吸苦を訴え酸素飽和度の低下も認めた。救急外来で胸腔ドレナージを実施し，呼吸状態は改善した。持続的出血は認めず，ドレーン排液も漿液性となり量も減少した。しかし入院5日目に再度右大量血胸によるショック状態を呈し緊急開胸止血術を行った。転位を伴う肋骨骨折に起因すると思われる右横隔膜裂創を認め，縫合止血と再発予防のために転位肋骨骨折端の処理を行った。術後血行動態は安定した。軽症胸部外傷でも緊急止血術を要する遅発性血胸は発症しうる。とくに下位の転位性肋骨骨折を伴う症例では注意深い経過観察が必要である。止血に関しては，出血源が特定できない場合や血行動態不安定な場合は迅速な外科的止血術が必要である。また再発予防のために転位性肋骨骨折端の処理も必要である。開胸止血術を行う際には，下位肋骨骨折があり出血源不明な症例では，転位性肋骨骨折近傍の肋間での開胸は有用な場合がある。