bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DNA Logic Gates Integrated on DNA Substrates in Molecular Computing
Authors: Bardales Andrea C. , Smirnov Viktor , Taylor Katherine , Kolpashchikov Dmitry M.
Published: February 2024

Due to nucleic acid's programmability, it is possible to realize DNA structures with computing functions, and thus a new generation of molecular computers is evolving to solve biological and medical problems. Pioneered by Milan Stojanovic, Boolean DNA logic gates created the foundation for the development of DNA computers. Similar to electronic computers, the field is evolving towards integrating DNA logic gates and circuits by positioning them on substrates to increase circuit density and minimize gate distance and undesired crosstalk. In this minireview, we summarize recent developments in the integration of DNA logic gates into circuits localized on DNA substrates. This approach of all‐DNA integrated circuits (DNA ICs) offers the advantages of biocompatibility, increased circuit response, increased circuit density, reduced unit concentration, facilitated circuit isolation, and facilitated cell uptake. DNA ICs can face similar challenges as their equivalent circuits operating in bulk solution (bulk circuits), and new physical challenges inherent in spatial localization. We discuss possible avenues to overcome these obstacles.
Pretibial myxedema in Grave's disease: A case report and treatment review of the literature
Authors: Nguyen Van Bang , Nguyen Van Vy Hau , Van Le Chi , Linh Pham Nguyen Tuyen , Thi Xuan Nguyen , Vo Thanh Trang
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pretibial myxedema is a rare skin lesion in Grave's disease, which required topical glucocorticoid administration in long‐term treatment. The patient's lesion has shrunk and become flatter than before treatment.

We present a case of biopsy‐verified pretibial myxedema in a 70‐year‐old male patient with diagnosed hyperthyroidism and no prior history of Graves' disease. Topical corticosteroid and antithyroid drug administration led to successful resolution of the skin lesions. This case emphasizes the importance of considering pretibial myxedema even in atypical presentations of Graves' disease and underscores the value of prompt treatment.
The Efficacy, Effectiveness, and Efficiency of Integrated QTc Assessment: Rationalizing Approaches to New Drug Modalities
Authors: Abernathy Matthew M. , Leishman Derek J.
Published: February 2024

After nearly 3 decades of regulatory activity concerning new drugs' potential for delayed cardiac repolarization an integrated risk assessment paradigm for small molecule drugs has been established. Regulatory guidance also suggests that for large, targeted proteins and monoclonal antibodies no quantitative clinical QTc assessment is necessary. The expansion of new drug modalities prompts the question: “Should these new modalities be treated like small molecule drugs or like monoclonal antibodies?”
Merging Photoredox with Nickel Catalysis for Decarboxylative Arylation of Indole‐3‐Acetic Acids with Aryl Halides
Authors: Guin Abhyuday , Bera Suvankar , Pathi Vijay Babu , Banerji Biswadip
Published: February 2024

Late‐stage functionalization of indoles can be a valuable strategy for modifying different existing indolyl‐drugs and natural products to get their new analogues. In this study, we report the photoredox‐metal catalyzed decarboxylative arylation strategy of indole‐3‐acetic acids with aryl halides. Here, photoredox‐catalysis was synergistically merged with nickel‐catalysis for the synthesis of biologically important 3‐benzyl indoles with good functional group tolerance. The merit of this methodology is demonstrated by the synthesis of amino acid derived substrates 3 p, 3 v and 3 x.
An Ace in the Hole for Soil Health and Nitrogen Tracking
Authors: Sever Megan
Published: February 2024

Organic nitrogen constitutes the vast majority of the total nitrogen in arable soils, but since there hasn’t been a reliable method to measure it, many studies focus solely on inorganic nitrogen.

Scientists have recently confirmed that ACE protein—autoclaved‐citrate extractable protein—works well to measure the organically bound pool of nitrogen in soil.

ACE protein also provides much‐needed information about total nitrogen as well as nitrate and ammonium—inorganic nitrogen sources—and reveals how sustainable management practices can promote soil health.
Synergizing board dynamics, sustainability, and strategy for international success
Authors: Barriga Roberto Herrera , Escandon‐Barbosa Diana
Published: February 2024

This study investigates the dynamic nexus between board characteristics, sustainability initiatives, and corporate strategies, offering critical insights into their collective impact on international performance. Utilizing a structural equation model and data from Colombian SMEs, our research underscores the influential role of diverse board attributes, encompassing social and human capital, in shaping managerial practices and decision‐making processes, ultimately influencing the outcomes of internationalization endeavors. The study emphasizes the significance of internally and externally well‐connected boards in facilitating effective internationalization efforts, affirming previous research highlighting the positive influence of board social capital on international performance. Furthermore, it reveals that board human capital, particularly directors with expertise in international business, substantially contributes to informed global strategy, empowering managers to craft robust internationalization approaches. The study's pivotal finding lies in the interactive impact of organizational Sustainability, advocating for a corporate strategy centered on Sustainability, which fosters a competitive advantage and advances international performance.
Anisotropic Rotunda‐Shaped Carboxymethylcellulose/Carbon Nanotube Aerogels Supported Phase Change Materials for Efficient Solar‐Thermal Energy Conversion
Authors: Zheng Nannan , Pan Hao , Chai Zelong , Liu Zhimeng , Gao Fengyu , Wang Ge , Huang Xiubing
Published: February 2024

For the drawbacks of phase change materials such as poor shape stability and weak solar‐thermal conversion ability, a rotunda‐shaped carboxymethylcellulose/carbon nanotube aerogel (CA) with three‐dimensional network was constructed by freeze casting with a special mold, and then impregnated with polyethylene glycol (PEG) in this work. The PEG/CA had an enthalpy of 183.21 J/g, and a thermal conductivity of 0.324 W m−1 K−1, which was 57 % higher than the pure PEG. The ability of PEG/CA to convert solar energy to thermal energy was a positive correlation between the inclusion of CNTs and the composite material‘s thermal conductivity. Under simulated sunlight, its solar‐thermal conversion efficiency reaches 94.41 %, and after 10 min of irradiation, the surface temperature can reach 65 °C and the internal temperature can reach 44.67 °C. This rotunda‐shaped PEG/CA is promising for the efficient use of renewable solar energy due to its strong solar‐thermal conversion and thermal storage capabilities.
Securing Reversibility of UVO2+/UVIO22+ Redox Equilibrium in [emim]Tf2N‐Based Liquid Electrolytes towards Uranium Redox‐Flow Battery
Authors: Takao Koichiro , Ouchi Kazuki , Komatsu Atsushi , Kitatsuji Yoshihiro , Watanabe Masayuki
Published: February 2024

We studied electrochemical behavior of UVO2+/UVIO22+ in non‐aqueous liquid electrolytes to clarify what is required to attain its reversibility for utilizing depleted U in a redox‐flow battery. To transfer knowledge from former pyrochemical systems in high temperature molten salts, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethyl)sulfonylamide ([emim]Tf2N) ionic liquid was employed here. As a result, a reversible redox reaction of the UVO2+/UVIO22+ was successfully observed on a glassy carbon working electrode under presence of Cl− in [emim]Tf2N, where [UVIO2Cl4]2−+e−=[UVO2Cl4]3− occurs after stabilization of both U oxidation states by the Cl− coordination. The observed electrochemical responses are rather sensitive to an electrode material, so that cyclic voltammograms on a Pt working electrode were actually irreversible. To improve diffusivity of solutes, viscosity (η) of [emim]Tf2N diluted with an auxiliary molecular solvent, N,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF), was examined under absence and presence of Cl−. When the mole fraction of DMF (xDMF) is 0.769, η of the mixture becomes sufficiently low to be utilized as a liquid electrolyte. Finally, we have succeeded in demonstrating a reversible redox reaction of [UVIO2Cl4]2−+e−=[UVO2Cl4]3− in the [emim]Tf2N‐DMF (50 : 50 v/v, xDMF=0.769) liquid electrolyte containing [Cl−]=0.519 M, where η=6.2 mPa ⋅ s.
Detection of slow‐moving landslides through automated monitoring of surface deformation using Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery
Authors: Van Wyk de Vries Maximillian , Arrell Katherine , Basyal Gopi K. , Densmore Alexander L. , Dunant Alexandre , Harvey Erin L. , Jimee Ganesh K. , Kincey Mark E. , Li Sihan , Singh Pujara Dammar , Shrestha Ram , Rosser Nick J. , Dadson Simon J.
Published: February 2024

Landslides are one of the most damaging natural hazards and have killed tens of thousands of people around the world over the past decade. Slow‐moving landslides, with surface velocities on the order of 10−2–102 m a−1, can damage buildings and infrastructure and be precursors to catastrophic collapses. However, due to their slow rates of deformation and at times subtle geomorphic signatures, they are often overlooked in local and large‐scale hazard inventories. Here, we present a remote‐sensing workflow to automatically map slow‐moving landslides using feature tracking of freely and globally available optical satellite imagery. We evaluate this proof‐of‐concept workflow through three case studies from different environments: the extensively instrumented Slumgullion landslide in the United States, an unstable lateral moraine in Chilean Patagonia and a high‐relief landscape in central Nepal. This workflow is able to delineate known landslides and identify previously unknown areas of hillslope deformation, which we consider as candidate slow‐moving landslides. Improved mapping of the spatial distribution, character and surface displacement rates of slow‐moving landslides will improve our understanding of their role in the multi‐hazard chain and their sensitivity to climatic changes and can direct future detailed localised investigations into their dynamics.
Potential anti‐obesity effect of saponin metabolites from adzuki beans: A computational approach
Authors: Moussa Ashaimaa Y. , Alanzi Abdullah , Luo Jinhai , Chung Sookja Kim , Xu Baojun
Published: February 2024

In contrast to its widespread traditional and popular culinary use to reduce weight, Vigna angularis (adzuki beans) was not subjected to sufficient scientific scrutiny. Particularly, its saponins whose role was never investigated before to unveil the beans’ antidiabetic and anti‐obesity effects. Four vital pancreatic and intestinal carbohydrate enzymes were selected to assess the potency of the triterpenoidal saponins of V. angularis to bind and activate these proteins through high‐precision molecular modeling and dynamics mechanisms with accurate molecular mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area (MMGBSA) energy calculations; thus, recognizing their anti‐obesity potential. Our results showed that adzukisaponin VI and adzukisaponin IV were the best compounds in the α‐amylase and α‐glucosidase enzymatic grooves, respectively. Adzukisaponin VI and angulasaponin C were the best fitting in the N‐termini of sucrase‐isomaltose (SI) enzyme, and angulasaponin C was the best scoring compound in maltase‐glucoamylase C‐termini. All of them outperformed the standard drug acarbose. These compounds in their protein complexes were selected to undergo molecular simulations of the drug‐bound protein compared to the apo‐protein through 100 ns, which confirmed the consistency of binding to the key amino acid residues in the four enzyme pockets with the least propensity of unfolding. Detailed analysis is given of the different polar and hydrophobic binding interactions of docked compounds. While maltase–adzukisaponin VI complex scored the lowest MMGBSA free energy of −67.77 Kcal/mol, α‐amylase complex with angulasaponin B revealed the free binding energy of −74.18 Kcal/mol with a dominance of van der Waals energy (ΔEVDW) and the least change from the start to the end of the simulation time. This study will direct researchers to the significance of isolating the pure adzuki saponin components to conduct future in vitro and in vivo experimental works and even clinical trials.
Infant‐directed communication in Tanna, Vanuatu and Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Halavani Zahra , Yeung H. Henny , Cebioğlu Senay , Broesch Tanya
Published: February 2024

It is known that infant‐directed speech (IDS) plays a key role in language development. Previous research, however, has also identified significant variability across societies in terms of how often IDS occurs. For example, some studies report very little IDS in non‐western, small‐scale societies – including children growing up in small‐scale societies in Tanna, Vanuatu. This is surprising given that IDS is widely assumed as a common feature of human caregiving based on research conducted in urbanised populations which are more well‐studied. Here, we propose that IDS is only one of a suite of important caregiving behaviours that are produced during interactions with infants, which may vary by culture, perhaps being replaced by other, non‐verbal infant‐directed behaviours (IDB). We will examine previously collected data consisting of 94 semi‐structured 10‐min video observations of caregivers and their 18–24 month‐old children in rural Tanna, Vanuatu and urban Vancouver, Canada to identify and compare the proportion of time caregivers spend engaging in IDS and IDB during these interactions, both within and between societies. We define IDS as caregiver speech or vocalisations during the interaction with the infant, and we define IDB as non‐verbal behaviours that are produced with the infant during the interaction. This study aims to take a step towards a more generalised understanding of language development in children, moving beyond the urban and western societies in which our understanding of development is currently based, and the predicted results will aid in recognising different developmental pathways within multi‐cultural communities.
Intelligent reflecting surfaces assisted integrated information and energy networks in D2D communications
Authors: Rashid Umair , Mukhtar Farooq , Waqar Omer , Asif Waqar , Sherazi Hafiz Husnain Raza
Published: February 2024

Intelligent Reflecting Surface (IRS) is set to revolutionize future wireless networks, particularly in Device to Device (D2D) communication. Its unique intelligence lies in dynamically reshaping signal propagation and enhancing network performance. The proposed model ensures receivers in a D2D network are accessible only through strategically placed IRS elements, optimizing signal propagation and coverage. Simulations demonstrate the solution's effectiveness, enhancing communication for Information Users (IUs) and energy harvesting for Energy Users (EUs) while meeting SINR constraints. Our efficient algorithms tackle the non‐convex problem, enabling exclusive transmission of information signals from the AP to serve both IUs and EUs with improved performance.
The Relationship Between Fatty Liver and Hyperinsulinemia in Obese Japanese Children
Authors: Kawasaki Takuya , Hashimoto Naoshi , Kikuchi Toru , Takahashi Hideo , Uchiyama Makoto
Published: February 2024

Background:

Previous reports have revealed that fatty liver involving obesity is closely related to insulin resistance or hyperinsulinemia in adulthood. This study investigates the importance of hyperinsulinemia in obese children with fatty liver.

Methods:

The subjects were 228 obese children 6 to 15 years old in Niigata Prefecture, Japan. The serum level of glutamic pyruvic transaminase (GPT) was evaluated as an indicator of fatty liver. The effects of their percent obesity (percent over ideal body weight), Rohrer index (g/cm3), skinfold thickness, percent body fat measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis, total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), blood glucose, and immuno‐reactive insulin (IRI) on GPT were evaluated using regression analyses.

Results:

The incidence of fatty liver (GPT over 35 IU/I) was 24.1% in this study. In simple regression analyses, percent obesity, Rohrer index, skinfold thickness, TC, TG, blood glucose, and IRI correlated positively with GPT (p < 0.05). In stepwise regression analysis including these seven variables, the predictive equation for GPT as a function of IRI alone accounted for 24.2% of the total variance of GPT. The addition of TC alone, and TC and percent obesity together increased the coefficients of determination to 28.4% and 29.9%, respectively. Rohrer index, skinfold thickness, Tg, and blood glucose were not taken as related variables with GPT.

Conclusion:

Hyperinsulinemia is an important contributor to the development of fatty liver, apparently more than anthropometric data, blood glucose, or serum lipids in childhood obesity.
Antroduodenal Motor Effects of Intravenous Erythromycin in Children with Abnormalities of Gastrointestinal Motility
Authors: Cucchiara S. , Minella R. , Scoppa A. , Emiliano M. , Calabrese F. , Az‐ Zeqeh N. , Rea B. , Salvia G.
Published: February 2024

Background:

The macrolide antibiotic erythromycin (EM) affects gastrointestinal motor activity by acting as agonist of motilin receptors located on the smooth muscle cells of the gastroduodenal tract. We studied the effect of intravenous EM on fasting antroduodenal motility in controls and children with gastrointestinal dysmotility.

Methods:

EM lactobionate (rate, 3.0 mg/kg/h) was infused intravenously while antroduodenal manometry was recorded in 10 controls, in 7 patients with functional dyspepsia and in 6 patients with gut pseudo‐obstruction. The mean (SD) age (years) was 5.7 (1.4), 6.5 (2.4), and 6.7 (3.2), respectively. Manometry was performed by means of a four‐ or six‐lumen catheter introduced through the nose and perfused with a low compliance pneumohydraulic system. Five controls received EM and five received saline.

Results:

EM, infused 5 minutes after passage of an activity front (AF), induced in controls a premature antroduodenal AF occurring 15.4 ± 3.2 minutes after starting infusion; no motor changes were seen after saline; duration and propagation velocity of EM‐induced AFs did not differ from spontaneous AFs. In patients with functional dyspepsia EM induced various patterns such as premature antroduodenal AFs, antral phase III‐like pattern with short duodenal bursts or prolonged phasic antral waves and no duodenal activity. In patients with neurogenic pseudo‐obstruction rare or absent antral activity with incoordinated or absent duodenal activity was induced; no contractions were elicited in two patients with myogenic pseudo‐obstruction.

Conclusions:

It is confirmed that EM, given at subtherapeutic doses, is a powerful prokinetic agent that can have clinical applications in patients with gastrointestinal dysmotility; however, the effect of the drug seems to be influenced by the nature of the underlying disorder.
Exploring cash refund capital reduction in Taiwan: Empirical insights from bull and bear markets
Authors: Wei Yu‐Sin , Yu Chih‐Ping , Hou Han
Published: February 2024

The paper explores the concept of cash refund capital reductions (CRCR) in the context of firms listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange Corporation (TSEC) and GreTai Securities Market (GTSM). CRCR is a distinct and increasingly vital financial tool used by these firms. Taiwan stands alone in adopting CRCR, making it a challenge to establish both a theoretical framework and gather empirical evidence on this subject. In this study, we examined 205 CRCR announcements made between 2002 and 2022, delving into their impact on both bull and bear markets. Our investigation reveals that the market responses to CRCR announcements were more significant during bull markets compared to bear markets. Additionally, we delve into the crucial factors influencing market responses in these varying market conditions. The findings underscore the importance for firms announcing CRCR to carefully consider the prevailing market conditions.
Nonshared environment: Real but random
Authors: Plomin Robert
Published: February 2024

Background

In the excitement about genomics, it is easy to lose sight of one of the most important findings from behavioural genetics: At least half of the variance of psychopathology is caused by environmental effects that are not shared by children growing up in the same family, which includes error of measurement. However, a 30‐year search for the systematic causes of nonshared environment in a line‐up of the usual suspects, especially parenting, has not identified the culprits.

Method

I briefly review this research, but primarily consider the conceptual framework of the search for ‘missing’ nonshared environmental effects.

Results

The search has focused on exogenous events like parenting, but nonshared environment might not be caused by anything we would call an event. Instead, it might reflect endogenous processes such as noisy biological systems (such as somatic mutations and epigenetics) or, at a psychological level, idiosyncratic subjective perceptions of past and present experiences, which could be called nonshared environmental experience to distinguish it from exogenous events. Although real, nonshared environment might be random in the philosophy of science sense of being unpredictable, even though it can have stable effects that predict subsequent behaviour.

Conclusion

I wade into the weeds of randomness and suggest that this so‐called ‘gloomy prospect’ might not be so gloomy.
The role of high‐resolution impedance manometry to identify rumination syndrome in children with unexplained foregut symptoms
Authors: Puoti Maria Giovanna , Safe Mark , Thapar Nikhil , Di Chio Teresa , Pieri Elena Sofia , Nikaki Kornilia , Lindley Keith , Rybak Anna , Borrelli Osvaldo
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Diagnosis of rumination syndrome (RS) relies on Rome IV criteria. Oesophageal high‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) can objectively demonstrate the episodes of rumination, but its role in the diagnostic pathway is not yet established. We aimed to demonstrate the clinical contribution of this tool for the timely diagnosis of RS and diagnostic work‐up of children with unexplained foregut symptoms deemed to be due to other conditions.

Methods

HRIMs performed between 2012 and 2021 were searched to retrieve all diagnoses of RS. Medical records were reviewed for clinical data.

Results

Out of 461 HRIMs performed, 76 children had manometric diagnosis of RS (35 male, median age: 13 years). Of them, 47% were not clinically suspected as the symptoms did not fulfil clinical criteria for RS. The indications for HRIM in these cases were investigation of unexplained foregut symptoms (37%), suspected refractory gastroesophageal reflux disease (8%) and dysphagia (2%). Among all HRIMs performed for investigations of unexplained foregut symptoms (n = 80), 35% demonstrated rumination episodes.

Conclusion

Identification of characteristic patterns of rumination on HRIM in children with unexplained foregut symptoms enables the immediate diagnosis of RS. Thus, in situations of diagnostic uncertainty, the use of HRIM at early stages of the diagnostic pathway would reduce unnecessary investigations and treatments.
Development of a quantification method for the analysis of sugars in apple fruit juice using attenuated total reflection‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy coupled with multivariate regression modeling
Authors: Dhaulaniya Amit Singh , Balan Biji , Singh Dileep K.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sugars are a major component of apple juices. Sugar content plays an important role in quality analysis of the apple juice. In this study, an attempt is made to develop a simple and reliable method for the direct estimation of sugar content in apple juice using attenuated total reflection‐Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR) coupled with chemometric technique. The spectral information obtained from the FTIR is utilized to develop predictive models based on partial least square regression (PLS‐R) and principal component regression (PCR) for sugar analysis.

Results

Based on the analysis of FTIR spectra, a fingerprint region (between 1200 and 900 cm−1) for carbohydrates in apple juice was identified. This region was utilized to develop PLS‐R and PCR models. Ultimately, PLS‐R models were selected for prediction because of their superiority in terms of root mean square error of calibration (RMSEC), root mean standard error for cross‐validation (RMSECV), and R2 over PCR models. For fructose and glucose content, the prediction model generated with raw spectra obtained the best optimized statistical parameters (R2 fructose; 0.9952, R2 glucose; 0.9961). However, for total sugar and sucrose (R2 total sugar; 0.9968, R2 sucrose; 0.9983) content, first‐derivative FTIR models were found best suitable for the prediction of test set.

Conclusions

This study offers a reliable, rapid, and nondestructive method with least sample preparation for the direct estimation of sugars in apple juices. It allows the determination of several sugars in a single measurement, which is worth emphasizing. The fundamental methodology of the proposed model can also be advantageous for simultaneous determination of major sugars in complex matrices other than fruit juices.
Resilience changes of carbon stocks to quantify the long‐term effects of ecological engineering projects in subtropical forests of China based on satellite‐derived net ecosystem production time series and inventory data
Authors: Yang Qin , Huang Zhi , Wu Ling , Guo Binbin , Liu Meiling , Xue Xiaojing , Li Xiaoyue , Liu Xiangnan
Published: February 2024

Understanding how resilient forests are to ecological engineering projects (EEPs) is essential to forest management and ecosystem health. Despite growing evidence that EEPs achieve increasing carbon stocks, whether such benefits can be sustainable and what are the consequences of EEPs on forest health remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the long‐term effects of EEPs using forest resilience from aspects of resistance and recovery, by applying a change detection algorithm (breaks for additive seasonal and trend; BFAST) spatially on net ecosystem production (NEP) (proxy for carbon stocks) time series (1981–2019) in red soil hilly region (RSHR) of subtropical China. The spatial parameters (e.g., the number, magnitude, and time of changes) used to construct resilience metrics were generated based on BFAST‐derived breakpoints. These metrics were then utilized to analyze the dynamics of forest resilience in relation to EEPs factors in terms of plantation area, forest type, and stand age. Our results observed 92.77% of breakpoints in NEP after 2000, which corresponds well with the periods that multiple EEPs were conducted. NEP resilience showed great variability during 2001–2019, with a positive increasing trend in resistance (R2 = 0.72) and a continuous decline (R2 = 0.37) in recovery, indicating an unhealthy ecosystem in RSHR. Our findings revealed that forest resistance was strongly associated with plantation area (R = 0.71), and the presence of monoculture and young coniferous forest may be the potential factors for the decline in recovery. This suggested that forest resilience in RSHR is mainly modulated by large‐scale EEPs.
Nonlinear responses in interannual variability of lake ice to climate change
Authors: Richardson David C. , Filazzola Alessandro , Woolway R. Iestyn , Imrit M. Arshad , Bouffard Damien , Weyhenmeyer Gesa A. , Magnuson John , Sharma Sapna
Published: February 2024

Climate change is contributing to rapid changes in lake ice cover across the Northern Hemisphere, thereby impacting local communities and ecosystems. Using lake ice cover time‐series spanning over 87 yr for 43 lakes across the Northern Hemisphere, we found that the interannual variability in ice duration, measured as standard deviation, significantly increased in only half of our studied lakes. We observed that the interannual variability in ice duration peaked when lakes were, on average, covered by ice for about 1 month, while both longer and shorter long‐term mean ice cover duration resulted in lower interannual variability in ice duration. These results demonstrate that the ice cover duration can become so short that the interannual variability rapidly declines. The interannual variability in ice duration showed a strong dependency on global temperature anomalies and teleconnections, such as the North Atlantic Oscillation and El Niño–Southern Oscillation. We conclude that many lakes across the Northern Hemisphere will experience a decline in interannual ice cover variability and shift to open water during the winter under a continued global warming trend which will affect lake biological, cultural, and economic processes.
Evaluating the quality of life impact of recurrent urinary tract infection: Validation and refinement of the Recurrent UTI Impact Questionnaire (RUTIIQ)
Authors: Newlands Abigail F. , Kramer Melissa , Roberts Lindsey , Maxwell Kayleigh , Price Jessica L. , Finlay Katherine A.
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Recurrent urinary tract infection (rUTI) has significant negative consequences for a wide variety of quality of life (QoL) domains. Without adequate validation and assessment of the unique insights of people living with rUTI, clinical results cannot be fully understood. The Recurrent UTI Impact Questionnaire (RUTIIQ), a novel patient‐reported outcome measure of rUTI psychosocial impact, has been robustly developed with extensive patient and clinician input to facilitate enhanced rUTI management and research. This study aimed to confirm the structural validity of the RUTIIQ, assessing its strength and bifactor model fit.

Methods

A sample of 389 adults experiencing rUTI (96.9% female, aged 18–87 years) completed an online cross‐sectional survey comprising a demographic questionnaire and the RUTIIQ. A bifactor graded response model was fitted to the data, optimizing the questionnaire structure based on item fit, discrimination capability, local dependence, and differential item functioning.

Results

The final RUTIIQ demonstrated excellent bifactor model fit (RMSEA = 0.054, CFI = 0.99, SRMSR = 0.052), and mean‐square fit indices indicated that all included items were productive for measurement (MNSQ = 0.52–1.41). The final questionnaire comprised an 18‐item general “rUTI QoL impact” factor, and five subfactor domains measuring “personal wellbeing” (three items), “social wellbeing” (four items), “work and activity interference” (four items), “patient satisfaction” (four items), and “sexual wellbeing” (three items). Together, the general factor and five subfactors explained 81.6% of the common model variance. All factor loadings were greater than 0.30 and communalities greater than 0.60, indicating good model fit and structural validity.

Conclusions

The 18‐item RUTIIQ is a robust, patient‐tested questionnaire with excellent psychometric properties, which capably assesses the patient experience of rUTI‐related impact to QoL and healthcare satisfaction. Facilitating standardized patient monitoring and improved shared decision‐making, the RUTIIQ delivers the unique opportunity to improve patient‐centered care.
A promising method for promoting interfacial adhesion of aramid/rubber composite using atmospheric pressure plasma surface modification
Authors: Shakerinasab Ehsan , Bavi Ensieh Poshtkouhian , Balagna Cristina , Ferraris Monica
Published: February 2024

Today, aramid fibers are well known as a high‐performance and ideal material for reinforcement purposes in rubber product manufacturing including hoses, tires, cables, and conveyors composites. However, surface modification of aramid fiber is necessary to solve poor interfacial adhesion between aramid fibers and the rubber matrix. Accordingly, in the present study, the effect of the surface modification of aramid fibers using atmospheric pressure plasma treatment with different precursors on adhesion to the rubber matrix was investigated. For that, the plasma coating was conducted using argon as the main working gas, and toluene, acetonitrile, tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS), and hexamethyldisiloxane (HMDSO) as liquid precursors. The physical–chemical characterization of the layer confirmed the successful deposition of amorphous carbon, amorphous nitride‐carbon, SiO2, and Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)‐like coating layers on the surface of aramid fibers by using toluene, acetonitrile, TEOS, and HMDSO as precursors, respectively. Overall, the result showed that the plasma surface modifications with acetonitrile precursor leads to the increase in interfacial adhesion of aramid/rubber composite, while retaining the tensile strength, and flame resistance properties of aramid as original fibers. Notably, the results of this study confirm the potential use of atmospheric pressure plasma for surface modification of aramid yarn to produce functional aramid for use in rubber composites.

Highlights

The plasma‐coated aramid using HMDSO, TEOS, toluene, and acetonitrile precursors was prepared; and its effect on the tensile properties of aramid fiber as well as interfacial adhesion between aramid/rubber composite was investigated.

The positive effect of atmospheric pressure plasma coating using HMDSO precursor on the tensile properties of aramid fiber was revealed.

The positive effect of atmospheric pressure plasma coating using toluene and acetonitrile on the interfacial adhesion between aramid/rubber composite was revealed.

The positive effect of atmospheric pressure plasma coating using TEOS precursor on the flam resistance property of aramid fiber was revealed.

This study provides valuable insights into the effect of the different plasma‐coated organosilicon and hydrocarbon precursors on the interfacial adhesion between aramid/rubber composite.
Implementation of nickel and copper as cost‐effective alternative contacts in silicon solar cells
Authors: Unsur Veysel
Published: February 2024

Efficient metal contact formation is pivotal for the production of cost‐effective, high‐performance crystalline silicon (Si) solar cells. Traditionally, screen‐printed silver (Ag) contacts on the front surface have dominated the industry owing to their simplicity, high throughput, and significant electrical benefits. However, the high cost associated with using over 13–20 mg/Wp of Ag can impede the development of truly cost‐effective solar cells. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore alternative, economically viable metals compatible with silicon substrates. This study reports on the application of a contact stack consisting of Ag, nickel (Ni), and copper (Cu) in Si solar cells. To prevent Schottky contact formation, Ag is implemented as a seed layer, whereas Ni and Cu form the metal bulk layer. The fabricated bi‐layer stack without selective emitter exhibits a maximum efficiency of ~21.5%, a fill factor of 81.5%, and an average contact resistance of 5.88 mΩ·cm2 for a monofacial PERC cell. Microstructure analysis demonstrates that the metals within the contacts remain distinct, and Cu diffusion into the silicon during the firing process is absent. Consequently, printed bi‐layer contacts emerge as a promising alternative to Ag contacts, reducing the Ag consumption to below 2.5 mg/Wp per cell without compromising overall efficiency.
Serum markers for detecting histological features of autoimmune hepatitis and predicting prognosis in patients with antinuclear antibody‐positive drug‐induced liver injury
Authors: Zhang Feiyu , Jin Meishan , Xu Hongqin , Xiao Peng , Gao Yanhang
Published: February 2024

Aims

Although useful for distinguishing drug‐induced liver injury (DILI) from autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), liver biopsy is an invasive examination, and the presence of antinuclear antibody (ANA) positivity in patients with DILI could lead to excessive use of biopsy. Hence, we aimed to identify screening markers for histological features of AIH in patients with ANA‐positive DILI and verify their clinical outcomes after 1 year.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with ANA‐positive DILI, who underwent liver biopsy between January 2017 and April 2022. Two pathologists identified histological features of AIH. We detected the independent indicators associated with histological features of AIH using logistic regression. We evaluated their diagnostic ability for histological features of AIH using the receiver operating characteristic curve. The follow‐up period to determine clinical outcomes was 1 year after DILI onset. The χ2 test or Fisher's exact test was used to compare categorical data and the Wilcoxon rank‐sum test was used to compare continuous variables. Two‐sided p < 0.05 was considered to indicate significance.

Results

The final analysis included 125 patients with ANA‐positive DILI, of whom 18 had AIH‐like histology. Factors independently associated with AIH‐like histology included globulin levels (odds ratio [OR] = 1.154, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.046–1.288; p = 0.006) and ANA titer ≥ 1:1000 (OR = 3.531, 95% CI = 1.136–11.303; p = 0.029). The optimal globulin cutoff indicating AIH‐like histology was 31.8 g/L. This globulin level in combination with ANA titer ≥ 1:1000 (area under the curve = 0.785, 95% CI = 0.738–0.832) provided a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 57% for indicating histological features of AIH in patients with ANA‐positive DILI. During follow‐up, more patients developed AIH in the group with AIH‐like histology than in the group without AIH‐like histology (35.3% vs. 0, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

For patients with ANA‐positive DILI and ANA titer ≥ 1:1000 or globulin ≥ 31.8 g/L, liver biopsy is recommended to determine the presence of histological features of AIH and guide further monitoring.
The role of microfinance in improving living standards: Evidence from Tunisia
Authors: Miled Kamel Bel Hadj , Omri Anis
Published: February 2024

The main objective of this article is to investigate the effects of microfinance on poverty alleviation and improving living standards of poor households in Tunisia. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that analyzes such topics in the Tunisian context. We employed Logistic regressions (both binomial and ordered logit) and Fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to examine the consequences of microfinance usage. Based on complexity theory, fsQCA contributes to the literature by generating a richer understanding of complex poverty phenomena. Overall, we find a positive and significant relationship between the amount of microcredit an individual receives and the improvement of the living standards of beneficiaries. The improvements mainly relate to increased income, improved health care, and more consistent attendance at school. This study shows the potential for microfinance to reduce poverty in Tunisia, especially in the period following the Arab spring.
Policies on child poverty eradication in Indonesia: The importance of a common understanding of children and poverty
Authors: Landiyanto Erlangga A.
Published: February 2024

This paper reviews the policies on child poverty eradication in Indonesia. The review covers the definition of child poverty in Indonesian policy and regulation as well as government policies to eradicate child poverty. Based on the review, this paper argues that it is important to reconsider how children and child poverty are defined conceptually, as well as how that understanding influences the definition and measures of child poverty. Regulations and people's views define children and poverty in various ways. Furthermore, the effectiveness of poverty reduction strategies to eradicate child poverty should be contested because of mismatches between concept, regulations, strategies, interventions, and measures of child poverty.
Theoretical and Experimental Study of High‐Electromechanical‐Coupling Surface Acoustic Wave Resonators Based on A‐Plane (112¯0)$\left(\right. 11 \overset{\cdot}{2} 0 \left.\right)$ Al0.56Sc0.44N Films
Authors: Xie Weilun , Xuan Weipeng , Fu Danyang , Jiang Yingqi , Wang Qikun , He Xingli , Wu Liang , Chen Jinkai , Dong Shurong , Jin Hao , Luo Jikui
Published: February 2024

Herein, a high‐quality Al0.56Sc0.44N piezoelectric thin‐film‐based surface acoustic wave (SAW) resonator is developed. The Al0.56Sc0.44N is deposited on r‐plane Al2O3substrate by reactive magnetron sputtering. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectroscopy shows that the grown Al0.56Sc0.44N films are single‐phased and a‐plane oriented. The full width at half maximum of the XRD rocking curve is only 0.4°, which is smaller than most of the reported values. The effects of normalized thickness of the piezoelectric layer, electrode materials, and thickness on acoustic properties of the SAW resonators are investigated through the 3D finite‐element method equipped with the hierarchical cascading technique. A monotonically decreasing resonant frequency can be obtained with the mass loading of both the electrode metals. For the devices with a Pt electrode, it is observed that the electromechanical coupling coefficient () exhibits a nonlinear characteristic of first increasing and then decreasing with the increase of electrode thickness. SAW resonators with a nonpolar a‐plane Al0.56Sc0.44N thin films are fabricated, showing an exceptionally high of 4.6%. This result demonstrates a significant potential of AlScN films with the a‐plane orientation in radio frequency application.
Ni/Fe Bimetallic Atom Cluster Activate PMS To Promote 1O2 Production To Efficiently Remove BPA
Authors: Zhang Xiayan , Song Zhi , Liu Boxia , Liu Jialu , Huang Yeqiong , Han Dongxu
Published: February 2024

The advanced oxidation process based on peroxymonosulfate (PMS) is a new water purification strategy. In this work, Ni/Fe bimetallic atom cluster composite catalyst is prepared by a hydrothermal synthesis to stimulate PMS to produce high concentration singlet oxygen (1O2) and efficiently remove bisphenol A (BPA) from aqueous solution. The experimental data show that in a broad pH range (pH=3–11), the removal rate of BPA by the non‐free radical pathway induced by 1O2 is close to 100 %, and the catalyst still has high stability after 5 cycles. The mechanism of BPA removal in NiFe−BC/PMS/BPA catalytic degradation system is investigated by quenching experiment. It is found that 1O2 in the system is the most important active component in the degradation process of BPA, and a high concentration of 1O2 could promote the rapid degradation of BPA in solution. In this paper, the high catalytic activity and selectivity of bimetallic atomic cluster catalysts can provide new insights for the treatment of phenolic wastewater.
One‐Step Synthesis of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles Using Cannabidiol: Characterisation and Cytotoxicity Assessment in Human Keratinocyte Cells
Authors: Josiah Andrea Jess , Pillai Sreejarani Kesavan , Cordier Werner , Nell Margo , Lall Namrita , Twilley Danielle , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: February 2024

This research paper explores the field of nanobiotechnology, focusing on the design, characterisation, and potential dermal applications of metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs). ZnO and FeO NPs exhibit distinctive properties that are valuable in dermato‐cosmetic applications and transdermal drug delivery. This study investigates Cannabidiol (CBD) as a capping agent for MONPs synthesis. Employing microwave‐assisted techniques, MONPs were synthesised using either CBD or polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as capping agents. The TEM, SEM, FTIR, and XRD characterisation results confirmed the successful formation of CBD‐capped ZnO and FeO NPs exhibiting an average particle size of 90 and 76 nm, respectively. The cytotoxicity of CBD‐capped MONPs was evaluated on HaCaT cells over a concentration range of 100 to 6.25 μg/mL, which revealed that CBD‐capped ZnO NPs exerted a cytotoxic effect on HaCaT cells (IC50 85.34±1.17 μg/mL). In contrast, CBD‐capped FeO NPs and PVP‐capped MONPs exhibited negligible cytotoxicity (IC50 >100 μg/mL). TEM analysis revealed a noticeable structural alteration of ZnO NPs in the supplemented cell culture medium, which could contribute to enhanced NP uptake, thereby explaining the more pronounced cytotoxic effect of ZnO NPs. Therefore, the disparity in cytotoxic responses can be attributed to the protein coating adhering to the NPs surface in a biological medium.
A fluorescent probe for turn‐on sensing of glutathione using red emitting gold nanoclusters
Authors: Varghese Susan , Madanan Anju S. , Abraham Merin K. , Shkhair Ali Ibrahim , Indongo Geneva , Rajeevan Greeshma , S Vijila N. , George Sony
Published: February 2024

Glutathione (GSH), an oxidative stress biomarker plays a major role in different pathological processes and lead to a vast number of diseases including cancer. Biologically, cystine uptake is a fundamental factor in maintaining GSH levels in cells; however, the interaction between cystine and GSH in biological systems is least explored in developing sensors for GSH. In the present work, we have explored this interaction as the fundamental factor in “turn‐on” sensing of GSH from body fluids using a fluorescent gold nanocluster platform. The experimental results revealed that the probe displayed appreciable performance for GSH over a linear range from 0.2 mM to 1.3 mM with a limit of detection (LoD) of 0.43 μM. The probe also revealed sensitive as well as selective response towards GSH even in the presence of possible co‐existing interferants and provided satisfactory recovery percentage of 94.17 % to 108.12 % from real serum samples. These findings of the present study can be extended in future applications of sensing GSH from clinical samples.
1,3,5‐Benzene Tricarboxylic Acid Based Cocrystals With Selective Semiconductivity via H‐coupled Charge Transfer
Authors: Sarkar Sudip , Shil Suranjan , De Gobinda Chandra , Ghosh Sushobhan
Published: February 2024

Two organic cocrystals, one (1) based on benzene 1,3,5 tricarboxylic acid (TMA) plus 4‐amino pyridine and another (2) based on benzene 1,3,5 tricarboxylic acid (TMA) plus urea is reported. Cocrystals 1 and 2 are fully characterized by single crystal X ray diffraction, NMR and IR spectroscopy. The single crystal X ray diffraction shows the intermolecular H‐bonding interaction between components of the pairs TMA‐TMA as well as TMA‐4 amino pyridine and TMA‐Urea molecules. The conductivity studies for the cocrystal 1 shows semiconducting behavior whereas cocrystal 2remain as insulator under the same experimental condition. Computational studies with theoretically optimized structures as well as experimental X‐ray structures of both the cocrystals reveal the origin of conductivity as the H‐atom coupled charge transfer through the intermolecular H‐bonding between TMA and 4‐amino pyridine in cocrystal 1.
Visible Light‐Induced Synthesis of Fluorenes from α‐Biaryldiazoacetates
Authors: Wang Tie , Bashir Muhammad Adnan , Ding Rui , Bao Xinye , Zhang Hai‐Jun , Zhong Fangrui , Zhai Hongbin
Published: February 2024

Carbenes are pivotal reactive intermediates for accessing a wide range of complex molecules, which are frequently used in chemical synthesis and medicinal advancement. We have developed a convenient approach to fluorenes from α‐biaryldiazoacetates via low‐energy blue light‐induced photochemical generation of a carbene intermediate, where the reaction took place at room temperature without any catalysts, bases, or oxidants in acetonitrile. The present catalyst‐free and operationally simple approach enables highly efficient annulation of α‐biaryldiazoacetates under mild reaction conditions.