bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eye‐tracking training improves visuospatial working memory of children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder and autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Chan Agnes S. , Leung Pui‐Ying , Pang Tiffany Wing‐Yin , Sze Sophia L.
Published: October 2024

Given the close connection between eye movement and frontal lobe functions and some evidence supporting the effect of eye‐tracking training on enhancing cognitive performance mediated by the frontal lobe, this study aimed to explore if after‐school eye‐tracking training can improve the visuospatial working memory (VSWM) and cognitive flexibility performance in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study is a non‐randomized cluster trial. Forty children from eight primary schools were selected, half receiving eye‐tracking training for 20 sessions over 9 months, while the other half served as a waitlist control. They were matched on demographic characteristics and baseline cognitive performance. Their VSWM and cognitive flexibility were assessed at the beginning and end of the study. Results showed that children who received eye‐tracking training, but not those on a waitlist, exhibited significant improvements in the total score and working memory span of the VSWM tests, and the correct responses in cognitive flexibility tests. Specifically, VSWM performance at higher span levels (5 or above) yielded a greater improvement. The findings suggest that eye‐tracking training can be a feasible and effective after‐school program for improving working memory and cognitive flexibility performance in children with ADHD and ASD. This study was prospectively registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/, trial number: NCT05428657).
Exploring the antecedents, manifestations and coping strategies of boredom in the language classroom: A dynamic perspective
Authors: Yetkin Ramazan , Özer‐Altınkaya Zekiye
Published: October 2024

In the realm of foreign language learning, emotions play a pivotal role, yet boredom remains a largely overlooked aspect, with scant research exploring its dynamics in classroom settings. Addressing this gap, this study delves into the Turkish English as a Foreign Language (EFL) context to investigate the multifaceted nature of boredom, examining its fluctuations, antecedents, manifestations and coping strategies. Four elementary level EFL learners engaged in self‐ratings, reflective journals, and focus group interviews to provide insight. The findings highlight the dynamic nature of boredom, which fluctuates within and across classes and is influenced by factors such as long lectures, language proficiency, presentations and uninteresting topics. Ultimately, boredom manifests in various formats, including students using their phones, talking to friends, dealing with other things and daydreaming. Strategies such as giving full focus, a sense of understanding, note‐taking and avoiding distractions were utilised to cope with boredom. Through this exploration, this study contributes to the evolving discourse on boredom in language learning, offering tailored strategies to assist language educators in addressing this often‐neglected aspect of the classroom experience.
Identification of the metabolites of nimbolide in rat by liquid chromatography combined with quadrupole/orbitrap mass spectrometry
Authors: Li Kun , Jiang Lingling , Wei Yubao , Li Zeyun
Published: October 2024

Nimbolide is a major furanoid compound isolated from Azadirachta indica. The aim of this study was to characterize the metabolites of nimbolide in rats and to propose the metabolic pathways. The metabolites were generated by incubating nimbolide (10 μM) with rat liver microsomes, nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), and nucleophiles (glutathione [GSH] or N‐acetyl‐lysine [NAL]) at 37°C for 60 min. For the in vivo study, nimbolide was intravenously administered to rats at a single dose of 10 mg/kg, and the bile and urine were collected. The metabolites were identified by ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole/orbitrap mass spectrometry (UPLC‐Q/Orbitrap‐MS) using electrospray ionization in positive ion mode. Totally, nine metabolites were detected, and their identities were characterized by accurate MS and MS/MS data. In GSH‐supplemented liver microsomes, GSH conjugation was the primary elimination pathway. The furan ring was bioactivated into cis‐butene‐1,4‐dial that can be trapped by GSH. In NAL‐supplemented liver microsomes, two NAL conjugates (M4 and M5) derived from cis‐butene‐1,4‐dial were observed. In rat bile and urine, N‐acetyl‐cysteine, cysteine‐glycine, and GSH conjugate were also found. The current study provides an overview of the metabolism and the bioactivation profiles of nimbolide in rats, which aids in understanding its safety and activity.
Ultrasonographic assessment of the lateral pterygoid muscle for BoNT‐A injection
Authors: Bae Hyungkyu , Lee Yeon‐Hee , Kim Soo‐Bin , Hu Kyung‐Seok , Kim Hee‐Jin
Published: October 2024

The upper head of the lateral pterygoid muscle (LPM) is known to insert into the capsule of the temporomandibular joint and articular disc, and therefore its relationship with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) has been consistently suggested. The aim of the study was to determine the anatomical features of the LPM using ultrasonographic (US) imaging. Around 120 hemifaces from 60 healthy Korean volunteers were included in this study. US images were taken with the subject's mouth 2 cm open. The transducer was placed at a position where the infratemporal fossa could be observed through the mandibular notch, and its position was recorded. The locations of the coronoid process (CorP), lateral margin of the condylar process (ConP), and midpoint of CorP and ConP (MP) were measured with reference to the ala‐tragus line. The thicknesses of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, the masseter muscle, the temporalis muscle, and the depth of the LPM were measured at the MP. The masseter muscle, temporalis muscle, and LPM were observed in all cases and located in order from superficial to deep. The MP was located 39.6 ± 3.3 mm anterior and 7.8 ± 1.6 mm inferior to the tragus. The thicknesses of the skin and subcutaneous tissue, the masseter muscle, the temporalis muscle, and the depth of the LPM at the MP were 9.7 ± 1.0, 10.3 ± 1.3, 10.9 ± 1.6, and 30.9 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. The information reported in this study may be useful for determining the location of the LPM and adjacent anatomical structures in TMD patients and provide accurate and safe injection guidelines.
Heed new OCR Title IX guidance for Title IX coordinator duties
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: October 2024

The U.S. Department of Education's Office for Civil Rights published new resources on Sept. 12, 2024 addressing compliance with the 2024 Title IX regulations. One resource, 2024 Title IX Regulations: Impact on Title IX Coordinator Duties, explains the new and updated requirements for Title IX coordinators.
Horizontal Versus Vertical: The Visual Balance Effects of Comparative Price Presentation
Authors: Wang Xingang , Wang Lulu , Xie Zhipeng
Published: October 2024

Existing studies on comparative price advertisements mainly address how the physical factors of price presentation (e.g., font size, physical distance, background color) influence consumers' numerical processing and affect their discount perception and purchase intentions. However, this research takes a visual processing perspective to examine the visual balance effect of comparative price presentation (horizontal vs. vertical) on product preference. We used a scenario‐based experimental design to imagine an online shopping scenario. Study 1 indicates that horizontal (vs. vertical) comparative prices lead to heightened product attitudes/purchase intentions. Study 2 verified that perceived stability mediates the visual balance effect. In addition, Study 3 shows that the visual balance effect is moderated by the fit of perceived stability with product characteristics. The conclusions contribute to the knowledge structure of comparative price presentation from a visual processing perspective and can guide more effective comparative price promotion.
Effect of O‐Acetylation on the Antigenicity and Glycoconjugate Immunogenicity of the Streptococcus Pneumoniae Serotype 7F Capsular Polysaccharide
Authors: Soubal Jean‐Pierre , Lugo Aloyma , Santana‐Mederos Darielys , Garrido Raine , Rodriguez‐Noda Laura M. , Perez‐Nicado Rocmira , Soroa‐Millan Yamilka , Fariñas Mildrey , Valdés‐Balbín Yury , García‐Rivera Dagmar , Rivera Daniel G. , Vérez‐Bencomo Vicente
Published: October 2024

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a bacterial pathogen causing diseases as severe as pneumonia, sepsis and meningitis. Most commercial pneumococcal conjugate vaccines contain the 7F serotype, which is epidemiologically relevant and highly invasive. This serotype contains an O‐acetyl group at the internal L‐rhamnose of its polysaccharide repeating unit. Herein we report on the role of the O‐acetyl moiety of 7F polysaccharide in both antigen recognition and the induction of a protective antibody response against 7F. Fully and partially de‐O‐acetylated 7F polysaccharides were chemically prepared and compared with the O‐acetylated counterpart in their antigenicity and immunogenicity of their tetanus toxoid glycoconjugates. These comparative studies showed a slight but consistent decrease in the antigenicity for the fully de‐O‐acetylated polysaccharide, but not for the partly de‐O‐acetylated variant. The glycoconjugates derived from the O‐acetylated and the fully de‐O‐acetylated polysaccharides had similar sizes and polysaccharide‐to‐protein ratio, and all proved both to be immunogenic and induce opsonophagocytic responses in mice. Nevertheless, the immune response elicited by the O‐acetylated glycoconjugate was better in both quantity and quality, proving that the O‐acetyl group is not strictly necessary but also not irrelevant for the antigenicity and immunogenicity of the 7F serotype polysaccharide and its glycoconjugates.
Organic‐Inorganic Hybrid Silica Film with a TGBA* Structure
Authors: Sun Wei , Zhao Jinghua , Wu Limin , Li Yi , Liu Wei , Li Hongkun , Yang Yonggang
Published: October 2024

Twisted grain boundary (TGB) phases exhibit highly frustrated and complex liquid crystal structures, and have attracted enormous interest because of their unique internal structure, textures and properties. However, among the few real concerns related to these interesting structures, applying them to prepare polymer‐stabilized colored liquid crystal films has been challenging. Herein, the organic‐inorganic hybrid silica (OIHS) films with a TGBA* structure were prepared using two organosilanes and one chiral additive under an acidic condition. The structural color of the films can be adjusted by varying the polycondensation temperature and the concentration of the chiral additive. A structurally colored pattern was prepared by the inject printing, which was suitably applied for decoration and anti‐counterfeiting.
Synergistic Nanoscale Mn3O4‐CoO‐Co Heterojunctions for Boosting the Selectivity in Hydrogenation of Nitrostyrenes and Nitroarenes
Authors: Mrugesh Padariya , Mishra Jyotiranjan , Subramanian Palani S. , Pratihar Sanjay
Published: October 2024

Metal–metal oxide interface catalysts are in high demand for advanced catalytic applications due to their multi‐component active sites, which facilitate synergistic cooperation where a single component alone cannot effectively promote the desired reaction. Demonstrated herein graphene oxide‐supported nanoscale Mn3O4‐CoO−Co as highly efficient catalysts for hydrogenation of nitro styrenes/nitro arenes to amino styrenes/arenes under mild reaction conditions (0.5 MPa and 100 °C in 1 : 1 THF/water). Charge relocalization at the Co‐CoO‐Mn3O4 heterojunction interfaces, primarily driven by Mn3O4, significantly improves reaction selectivity. Replacing Mn3O4 with MnO or using other supported bimetallic CoMnOx catalysts decreases selectivity, leading to the formation of a mixture of products. The catalyst demonstrated remarkable selectivity in converting nitro groups to amines, even in the presence of highly reactive functional groups such as C=C, O−C=O, C=O, C≡N, chalcones, and halides. It also exhibited high yields, multiple reusability, and a broad substrate scope. This study demonstrates how Mn3O4, in synergy with CoO−Co, fine‐tunes selectivity, paving the way for the development of advanced metal‐metal oxide interface catalysts to enhance both selectivity and efficiency in organic transformations.
Targeted Photoactivatable Green‐Emitting BODIPY Based on Directed Photooxidation‐Induced Activation and its Application to Live Dynamic Super‐Resolution Microscopy
Authors: Saladin Lazare , Le Berruyer Valentine , Bonnevial Maxence , Didier Pascal , Collot Mayeul
Published: October 2024

Photoactivatable fluorescent probes are valuable tools in bioimaging for tracking cells down to single molecules and for single molecule localization microscopy. For the latter application, green emitting dyes are in demand. We herein developed an efficient green‐emitting photoactivatable furanyl‐BODIPY (PFB) and we established a new mechanism of photoactivation called Directed Photooxidation Induced Activation (DPIA) where the furan is photo‐oxidized in a directed manner by the singlet oxygen produced by the probe. The efficient photoconverter (93‐fold fluorescence enhancement at 510 nm, 49 % yield conversion) is functionalizable and allowed targeting of several subcellular structures and organelles, which were photoactivated in live cells. Finally, we demonstrated the potential of PFB in super‐resolution imaging by performing PhotoActivated Localization Microscopy (PALM) in live cells.
Resolving the Structure of a Guanine Quadruplex in TMPRSS2 Messenger RNA by Circular Dichroism and Molecular Modeling
Authors: D'Anna Luisa , Froux Aurane , Rainot Aurianne , Spinello Angelo , Perricone Ugo , Barbault Florent , Grandemange Stéphanie , Barone Giampaolo , Terenzi Alessio , Monari Antonio
Published: October 2024

The presence of a guanine quadruplex in the opening reading frame of the messenger RNA coding for the transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2) may pave the way to original anticancer and host‐oriented antiviral strategy. Indeed, TMPRSS2 in addition to being overexpressed in different cancer types, is also related to the infection of respiratory viruses, including SARS‐CoV‐2, by promoting the cellular and viral membrane fusion through its proteolytic activity. The design of selective ligands targeting TMPRSS2 messenger RNA requires a detailed knowledge, at atomic level, of its structure. Therefore, we have used an original experimental‐computational protocol to predict the first resolved structure of the parallel guanine quadruplex secondary structure in the RNA of TMPRSS2, which shows a rigid core flanked by a flexible loop. This represents the first atomic scale structure of the guanine quadruplex structure present in TMPRSS2 messenger RNA.
Fouling During Polymerization in Different Continuous Reactor Setups
Authors: Welzel Stefan , Nieken Ulrich
Published: October 2024

Fouling in continuous reactors presents a significant challenge in the process intensification of specialty polymers. While in continuous stirred tank reactors (CSTRs) fouling is minimal, tubular reactors experience severe fouling, sometimes leading to complete blockage. Therefore, it is crucial to understand process and design conditions contributing to deposit formation. In this work, the impact of geometry, mixing elements, novel coatings, and ultrasonic waves are tested on tubular reactors for the polymerization of polyvinylpyrrolidone.
A Perspective on Green Solutions and Future Research Paths for Microplastic and Nanoplastic Contamination in Drinking Water
Authors: Chaturvedi Sadashiv , Kumar Amit , Min Liu , Kumar Rupesh
Published: October 2024

The detection of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) in drinking water sources has raised global concerns about the ability of conventional water and wastewater treatment facilities. There is health risk associated with the ingestion of plastic particles, such as particle toxicity or chemical toxicity. Therefore, improvement in the research and development (R & D) for detection and remediation techniques is critical to address the current challenge posed by the complex behavior of MPs. Understanding the transport behavior of MPs within drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs) is crucial to enhance the treatment processes of drinking water supply. The prevalence, fate, and circulation of MPs in freshwater ecosystems, coupled with its potential consequences for human health and climate change, have all been widely reported in scientific literature. However, a noticeable gap exists in global research concerning the occurrence of MPs and NPs in potable water and the accompanying health risk. This viewpoint introduces an innovative perspective on the primary challenges, remediation technologies, and sustainable green strategies for addressing MPs/NPs in potable water. The proposed strategies along with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques and identified research gaps could serve as valuable resources for hydrologists, environmentalists, biotechnologists, and policymakers, prompting them to consider strategic mitigation measures to alleviate future health risks associated with MPs/NPs.
Gold Nanoparticles Stabilized by δ‐Cyclodextrin in Aqueous Media: Characterization and Evaluation of their Catalytic Properties in the Reduction of 4‐Nitrophenol
Authors: de la Torre Ernesto , Noël Sébastien , Madureira Antonio , Hansen Kasper Hornstrup , Erichsen Andreas , Ponchel Anne , Beeren Sophie R. , Monflier Éric , Léger Bastien
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of gold nanoparticles stabilized by cyclomaltononaose (δ‐CD) in aqueous phase was performed. Protection of the gold nanoparticles by standard native cyclodextrins such as α‐CD, β‐CD and γ‐CD has also been considered for comparison. All of these colloidal suspensions were fully characterized by FT‐IR, DLS, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, TEM, XPS and also NMR experiments. Finally, their catalytic activity was evaluated in the reduction of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐aminophenol in the presence of an excess of sodium borohydride. Gold nanoparticles stabilized by δ‐CD presented good activity and exhibited better long‐term stability. This study highlighted the fact that the obtention of the best catalytic activity corresponds to not only a compromise between the size of the nanoparticles and the interaction of the substrate with the metal nanoparticles surface, but also the supramolecular interactions between the substrate and the cyclodextrin.
Short communication: White balance for self‐luminous highlights in images
Authors: Liu Yuyang , Yue Shuwei , Wei Minchen
Published: October 2024

An image is commonly white balanced using a white point that is considered to accurately characterize the scene illumination color (e.g., the white point estimated by the main camera on a smartphone, or the white point estimated by an ambient light sensor). Two recent studies, however, suggest that the perceived color appearance of self‐luminous highlights is less affected by the ambient illumination color in a scene, with the color appearance judged using a white point between 5000 and 7000 K, especially when the stimulus luminance is much higher than the diffuse white luminance. Based on this, we hypothesized to use a D65 white point for white balancing the self‐luminous highlights in images, regardless of the estimated white points. We captured a series of images containing self‐luminous highlights, and processed them with three different white points (i.e., the white point estimated by the main camera, D50, and D65). The hypothesis was supported by the survey results collected from 73 observers, together with our observations, and believed to introduce better image color appearance, especially for images shown on high dynamic range displays.
Enhancing 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural Production from Fructose Using Triethylbenzylammonium Chloride‐Based Acidic Deep Eutectic Solvents: Optimization and Acidity Impact
Authors: Song Jiuhang , Yuan Haotian , Mai Yinglin , Hu Yinan , Qiu Quanyuan , Wu Ting , Lin Xiaoqing
Published: October 2024

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF) is an important biomass‐based platform compound that links biomass feedstocks with petrochemical refinery products. In this work, we developed a novel approach using triethylbenzylammonium chloride (TEBAC)‐based acidic deep eutectic solvents (ADESs) to synthesize 5‐HMF through the dehydration of fructose. Our approach demonstrates significant improvements in both 5‐HMF yield and process efficiency compared to conventional solvent systems. Under optimal experimental conditions (90 °C, 4.5 h), a maximum 5‐HMF yield of 97.77±3.20 % was achieved at a TEBAC:acetic acid ratio of 2 : 3 with 1 wt % fructose loading, which represents a notable advancement over other methods. Notably, our system inhibits the formation of by‐products such as levulinic acid (LA) and formic acid (FA), which are commonly detected in other dehydration processes. Additionally, higher 5‐HMF yields of 76.67±0.33 % and 73.51±1.14 % were achieved with 10 wt % and 20 wt % fructose loadings, respectively, further highlighting the scalability of the process. The acidity of ADESs was found to significantly affect the dehydration rate and yield, as demonstrated through Hammett's acidity function analysis. The key innovation of our study lies in the strategic selection of hydrogen bond donors and acceptors in the DES, enabling both high efficiency and selectivity in 5‐HMF production. These findings provide a promising pathway for large‐scale biomass conversion with reduced by‐product formation.
Green dynamic capability and green product innovation for sustainable development: Role of green operations, green transaction, and green technology development capabilities
Authors: Borah Prasad Siba , Dogbe Courage Simon Kofi , Marwa Nyankomo
Published: October 2024

This study explored how three capabilities—green operations, green transactions, and green technology development—impact the relationship between manufacturing firms' green dynamic capability and green product innovation. The study surveyed 216 manufacturing firms in China and analyzed the data using structural equation modeling. The results showed that a company's green dynamic capability has a significant and positive effect on green product innovation. Additionally, the study found that: Green operations capability partially mediates the relationship between green dynamic capability and green product innovation; green transaction capability also partially mediates this relationship; and green technology development capability positively moderates the relationships between both green operations capability and green transaction capability and green product innovation. The study's findings suggest that managers should focus on developing their company's ability to adapt and rebuild resources, including technological and green resources, to stay competitive in a changing business environment.
The role of the corporate ethical virtues model in sustainability reporting
Authors: Pezzolo Marino , Monaci Massimiliano
Published: October 2024

From the perspective of virtue ethics, ethical organizational cultures prompt employees to act ethically. According to Kaptein's Corporate Ethical Virtues (CEV) model, this organizational ability is favored by the development of seven key corporate virtues (Clarity, Congruency, Feasibility, Supportability, Transparency, Discussability, and Sanctionability). The paper intends to connect the CEV model with sustainability reporting, which is taking on increasing relevance today due to factors such as the European Union's recent Directives on corporate non‐financial communication. In particular, the paper's objective is to examine to what extent and the way in which the virtues of the model have a role in sustainability reporting. Furthermore, this goal is enriched with an added focus, which is attention paid to actions taken by companies, and expressed in their sustainability reporting, in implementing virtuous behavior amidst the difficulties triggered by the COVID‐19 crisis. To achieve its aim, the paper presents and discusses a study of the role of the CEV model within two large companies in the logistics sector, through a content analysis of their sustainability reports covering the period 2018–2020 complemented by information from their corporate websites. The results of the analysis highlight both an overall relevance of the virtues included in the CEV model and the role of measures adopted by organizations to cope with COVID‐19 as a significant component of their sustainability performance in the pandemic period. Finally, the paper elaborates on several theoretical and practical implications stemming from the study.
Safety of edoxaban for delayed bleeding in gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures with a high risk of bleeding
Authors: Mizuno Ken‐ichi , Yokoyama Junji , Shibata Osamu , Kojima Yuichi , Kawata Yuzo , Takahashi Kazuya , Tominaga Kentaro , Satoshi Ikarasi , Kazunao Hayashi , Terai Shuji
Published: October 2024

Objectives

There are limited reports on the safety of gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures in individuals taking edoxaban, one of the direct oral anticoagulants. We clarified the incidence of delayed bleeding in patients who were on edoxaban in the perioperative period of gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures with a high risk of bleeding.

Methods

This was an investigator‐initiated, single‐center, open‐label, prospective, single‐arm study. Patients on warfarin or edoxaban undergoing endoscopy with a high risk of bleeding were enrolled from June 2018 to September 2021. Warfarin was replaced with edoxaban in patients on warfarin. Patients taking other direct oral anticoagulants, and antiplatelet drugs, were excluded. The primary endpoint was severe delayed bleeding (Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events [CTCAE] grades III–V) and the secondary endpoints included thromboembolism, all adverse events, any delayed bleeding (CTCAE grades I or II), and hospital stay durations.

Results

Twenty‐one patients on edoxaban underwent high‐risk endoscopy. Three cases (14%) experienced CTCAE grade III delayed bleeding, requiring endoscopic hemostasis. No CTCAE grade I‐II delayed bleeding or thromboembolic events occurred. Cholangitis and aspiration pneumonia (conservatively treated) occurred during the hospital stay. The median length of hospital stay was 8 days (range 3—24 days). Patients with delayed bleeding had higher systolic blood pressure at admission and longer hospital stays.

Conclusions

The delayed bleeding incidence in high‐risk endoscopic procedures for patients on edoxaban was acceptable. Higher blood pressure may be associated with increased risk, but further research is needed.
Transcriptomic Signature of Spatial Navigation in Brains of Desert Ants
Authors: Jaimes‐Nino Luisa Maria , Bar Adi , Subach Aziz , Stoldt Marah , Libbrecht Romain , Scharf Inon , Foitzik Susanne
Published: October 2024

Navigation is crucial for central‐place foragers to locate food and return to the nest. Cataglyphis ants are renowned for their advanced navigation abilities, relying on landmark cues and path integration. This study aims to uncover the transcriptomic basis of exceptional spatial learning in the central nervous system of Cataglyphis niger. Ants navigated a maze with a food reward, and we examined expression changes linked to correct decisions in subsequent runs. Correct decisions correlated with expression changes in the optic lobes, but not the central brain, showing a downregulation of genes associated with sucrose response and Creb3l1. The latter gene is homologous to Drosophila crebA, which is essential for long‐term memory formation. To understand how ants use distance information during path integration, we analyzed expression shifts associated with the last distance traveled. We uncovered a transcriptomic footprint in the central brain, but not in the optic lobes, with genes enriched for energy consumption and neurological functions, including neuronal projection development, synaptic target inhibition, and recognition processes. This suggests that transcriptional activity in the central brain is necessary for estimating distance traveled, which is crucial for path integration. Our study supports the distinct roles of different brain parts for navigation in Cataglyphis ants.
Comparing the differing effects of host species richness on metrics of disease
Authors: Cortez Michael H.
Published: October 2024

Changes in host species richness can alter infection risk and disease levels in multi‐host communities. I review theoretical predictions for direct and environmental transmission pathogens about the effects of host additions (or removals) on three commonly used disease metrics: the pathogen community reproduction number and infection prevalence and infected density in a focal host. To extend this prior work and explain why predictions differ between metrics, I analyze Susceptible Infected‐Recovered‐type models of an environmentally transmitted pathogen and multiple host species that compete for resources. Using local sensitivity analysis, I show how trait‐mediated and density‐mediated indirect effects drive each metric's response to variation in an added host's ability to transmit a pathogen, the added host's density, and the pathogen transmission mechanism. For each disease metric, the responses are typically predicted by the added host's ability to transmit the pathogen when interspecific competition is weak whereas the responses can be altered by shifts in host densities when interspecific competition is strong. In addition, the three metrics often respond in the same direction. However, the metrics can respond in different directions for three reasons: (1) differences between the ability of exposed individuals to transmit the pathogen over the length of time the individuals are infected (i.e., host competence) and a host population's instantaneous net rate of production of infectious propagules; (2) strong density‐mediated feedbacks driven by disease‐induced mortality; and (3) host additions or removals cause large changes in focal host density via competition or disease‐induced mortality. This study extends and unifies prior theoretical studies, and helps identify the rules governing the context‐dependent relationships between host species richness and the three metrics of disease.
Thermal Safety Characteristic Analysis of Large‐Format Pouch Li‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Zhang Jing , Gao Guotao , An Yabin , Zhang Keliang , Feng Jijun , Sun Xianzhong , Li Chen , Zhang Xiaohu , Gao Yinghui , Wang Kai , Zhang Xiong , Ma Yanwei
Published: October 2024

Lithium‐ion capacitors (LICs), as the next generation of supercapacitors, combine the high power density and long cycle life of supercapacitors with the high energy density of lithium‐ion batteries, presenting broad prospects for applications and becoming a focal point of research in academia and industry. Safety concerns regarding LICs, particularly the crucial issue of thermal safety, have garnered widespread attention. This study investigates the thermal abuse, electrical abuse, and mechanical abuse of 1100 F LICs, including overheating, overcharging, overdischarging, needling, extrusion, and short circuit tests, with real‐time monitoring of temperature, gas emissions, and voltage to explore thermal runaway mechanisms. The results demonstrate that LICs remain safe under abusive conditions, with no occurrences of fire or explosion hazards.
Material Selection of Tanks for Storage and Transport of Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers: A Lightweight and Lifecycle Assessment Comparative Study of Metal, Polymer, and Composite Alternatives
Authors: Beber Vinicius Carrillo , Abels Gideon , Hesebeck Olaf
Published: October 2024

Liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHCs) are a key technology for a decarbonized industrial production. A comparative study on the material selection of tanks for the storage and transport of LOHC is presented. Three material classes are compared: metals (steel), polymers (thermoplastic), and composites (glass fiber‐reinforced plastic). Considering existing standards, two sizes of tanks (150 and 700 m3) are dimensioned based on scenario requirements of loading and environmental conditions specific to the transport of the LOHC benzyltoluene. Thermoplastic tanks fulfilling the requirements are significantly heavier even than steel tanks, while the lowest tank mass can be achieved using glass fiber‐reinforced plastics (GFRP). Concerning GFRP: 1) a resin with suitable chemical resistance is preferable over a thermoplastic lining; 2) a construction geometry with a flat bottom and curved roof improves lightweight; and 3) woven roving yields lighter tanks than chopped strand mats. Lifecycle assessment for mobile and stationary tanks indicates that GFRP offers the smallest CO2 emissions for mobile tanks due to fuel savings, while steel is preferable for stationary tanks. In this regard, advancements in circularity and bio‐based raw materials for composites can improve GFRP's ecological balance for LOHC applications.
Prediction of Screen‐Printed Electrodes with Fine‐Line and Arbitrary Structures
Authors: Singler Marius , Ney Linda , Auerbach Simon , Krause Jonas , Hoger Tom , Rhabari Niloufar , Lorenz Andreas , Tepner Sebastian , Clement Florian
Published: October 2024

Currently, the photovoltaic manufacturing industry is confronted with an upcoming material shortage, primarily driven by the continued dependence on silver for front‐side metallization in TOPCon, SHJ, and PERC solar cells. This study employs a mathematical model originally introduced by Ney et al. in 2019 to predict the outcome of printed contact structures based on mesh characteristics. For validation, printing experiments are conducted with variations in printing speed, screen angle, and calendaring strength. It is generally observed that predictions for screens with a 20° mesh angle are less accurate than for other angles. In addition, it is noted that the prediction became more accurate with increasing channel width. Although, for some cases, a prediction accuracy between 77 and 87% is achieved, it is important to acknowledge that the results obtained from the simulation deviate from the real‐world observations to some extent. Additionally, a clear correlation between mesh thickness and printed volume is observed, enabling the prediction of silver usage and potential material savings.
Superior Stability of Heterostructure Electrode Composed of Co3O4 Nanospheres and WO3−x Nanorods in Hybrid Aqueous Supercapacitors
Authors: Nishad Harishchandra S. , Tejam Sachin D. , Patole Shahshikant P. , Chakane Sanjay D. , Chaskar Atul C. , Walke Pravin S.
Published: October 2024

The development of the battery‐type electrode for the hybrid supercapacitor is very challenging owing to poor cycle stability. To overcome this problem, heterostructures would be an excellent alternative attributed to the synergetic effect of different materials physical properties, including electrical conductivity, mechanical flexibility, and so forth. Furthermore, heterostructures also offer significant redox reactions on account of more active sites, enhanced charge transfers kinetics via extra electron carriers, and ion diffusion rates, along with improved cyclic stability. Herein, we prepared heterostructures of Co3O4 nanospheres and WO3−x nanorods via a single‐step wet chemical method at a reaction time of 1 h (CoW1) and 6 h (CoW2). The electrochemical investigations reveal improved specific capacitance of CoW1 (157 F g−1) than CoW2 (188 F g−1) at 0.3 A g−1. Furthermore, an aqueous hybrid supercapacitor (AHS) shows the specific capacitance of 38 F g−1 at 1 A g−1. Notably, it exhibits a remarkable specific capacity retention of 93% up to 10 000 cycles at 100 mV s−1. Thus, CoW2 have great potential of electrode materials for the next‐generation energy storage devices.
Small Steps to the Big Picture for Health‐Promoting Applications Through the Use of Chickweed (Stellaria media): In Vitro, In Silico, and Pharmacological Network Approaches
Authors: Cusumano Gaia , Flores Giancarlo Angeles , Cetiz Mehmet Veysi , Kurt Umran , Ak Gunes , Saka Enver , Aly Shaza H. , Eldahshan Omayma A. , Singab Abdel Nasser , Zengin Gokhan , Senkardes Ismail , Rodrigues Maria J. , Custodio Luisa , Emiliani Carla , Angelini Paola
Published: October 2024

Stellaria media L., also called chickweed, is widespread in all parts of the world. In the present study, we investigated the biological properties and chemical profiles of different extracts (ethyl acetate, ethanol, ethanol/water, and water) of S. media. The chemical profiles were examined using UHPLC/MS/MS technique. Regarding the biological properties, antioxidant properties as well as enzyme‐inhibiting and cytotoxic effects of the extracts were demonstrated by in vitro methods. To obtain further information about the structure‐ability relationship, network pharmacology and molecular docking were also performed. Twelve phenolic compounds were identified in the extracts and most of them were flavonoids (apigenin, kaempferol derivatives, etc.). The water extract showed the best free radical scavenging activity, while the ethanol was the most active in reducing power tests. When inhibiting AChE, the ethyl acetate extract showed the best inhibitory effect. The water extract has a good cytotoxic effect on HepG2 (cell viability: 33.9% at a concentration of 100 g/mL). The analysis, performed using the STRING database, included these 45 cancer‐associated targets. The identified hub genes were TP53, CDKN2A, PTEN, KRAS, and HRAS. In molecular docking analysis, acacetin‐O‐hexoside‐O‐deoxyhexoside and napigenin‐7‐O‐hexoside exhibit remarkable binding energies with proteins. Consequently, S. media can be potential raw materials for designing functional formulations in the pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, and cosmeceutical industries.
Subtle motor signs in children with ADHD and their white matter correlates
Authors: Hyde C. , Fuelscher I. , Rosch K. S. , Seymour K. E. , Crocetti D. , Silk T. , Singh M. , Mostofsky S. H.
Published: October 2024

Subtle motor signs are a common feature in children with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It has long been suggested that white matter abnormalities may be involved in their presentation, though no study has directly probed this question. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between white matter organization and the severity of subtle motor signs in children with and without ADHD. Participants were 92 children with ADHD aged between 8 and 12 years, and 185 typically developing controls. Subtle motor signs were examined using the Physical and Neurological Examination for Soft Signs (PANESS). Children completed diffusion MRI, and fixel‐based analysis was performed after preprocessing. Tracts of interest were delineated using TractSeg including the corpus callosum (CC), the bilateral corticospinal tracts (CST), superior longitudinal fasciculus, and fronto‐pontine tracts (FPT). Fiber cross‐section (FC) was calculated for each tract. Across all participants, lower FC in the CST was associated with higher PANESS Total score (greater motor deficits). Within the PANESS, similar effects were observed for Timed Left and Right maneuvers of the hands and feet, with lower FC of the CST, CC, and FPT associated with poorer performance. No significant group differences were observed in FC in white matter regions associated with PANESS performance. Our data are consistent with theoretical accounts implicating white matter organization in the expression of motor signs in childhood. However, rather than contributing uniquely to the increased severity of soft motor signs in those with ADHD, white matter appears to contribute to these symptoms in childhood in general.
Do health care quality improvement policies work for all? Distributional effects by baseline quality in South Africa
Authors: McGuire Finn , Smith Peter C. , Stacey Nicholas , Edoka Ijeoma , Kreif Noemi
Published: October 2024

Health care quality improvement (QI) initiatives are being implemented by a number of low‐ and middle‐income countries. However, there is concern that these policies may not reduce, or may even worsen, inequities in access to high‐quality care. Few studies have examined the distributional impact of QI programmes. We study the Ideal Clinic Realization and Maintenance program implemented in health facilities in South Africa, assessing whether the effects of the program are sensitive to previous quality performance. Implementing difference‐in‐difference‐in‐difference and changes‐in‐changes approaches we estimate the effect of the program on quality across the distribution of past facility quality performance. We find that the largest gains are realized by facilities with higher baseline quality, meaning this policy may have led to a worsening of pre‐existing inequity in health care quality. Our study highlights that the full consequences of QI programmes cannot be gauged solely from examination of the mean impact.
Selective Carbohydrate Deacetylation: Simple and Mild Approach based on Supported Copper Nanoparticles
Authors: Marchán‐García Joaquín , Lo Fiego Marcos J. , Moglie Yanina
Published: October 2024

Herein, a selective protocol for the complete removal of acetyl protecting groups from carbohydrate derivatives based on copper nanoparticles supported on activated carbon is presented. The deacetylation procedure occurs under neutral conditions, is applicable to a wide range of substrates and tolerates a variety of functional groups (e. g. azido, allyl and silyl groups). Quantitative yields of the deacetylated product were obtained for all evaluated derivatives using catalyst amounts between 1 and 10 mol%. As a special highlight, the dual behavior of the nanocatalyst in both deacetylation and click reactions is reported.
Hospital crisis management in the epidemic: A qualitative study
Authors: Mahmoudjanlou Shahrzad , Mahmoudi Ghahraman , Jahani Mohammad‐Ali
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the advances in medical science, the epidemic of infectious diseases has faced serious challenges to the health system of countries, so the purpose of this study was to identify obstacles and management strategies to prepare for planning preventive measures and better care in dealing with infectious diseases in hospitals.

Method

The current qualitative research was of the grounded theory type, which was conducted in 2023. The semistructured interview questions were obtained from experts. The initial selection of the sample was made from experts in the field of health and treatment from all over the country. The snowball method was used to increase the sample volume until it reached sufficient Value. After analyzing the data through MAXQDA2020 software, this research reached saturation by interviewing 20 experts.

Results

Four main areas, 15 subthemes, and 93 codes were identified in the management of epidemics, which included leadership and management (planning, physical structure, information management, financial resources, manpower, medicine and equipment, and internal and external coordination), Stewardship (macro policy and syndromic care system), safety and resilience (crisis management and emergency and disaster risk management), management of infectious diseases (instructions, education, infection prevention and control, treatment management).

Conclusion

This study presents the strategies of the health system in dealing with the epidemic of infectious diseases to overcome the obstacles and challenges of preparation and response, which can help health managers in designing future programs, and finally, it shows that hospitals should have a plan for resilience in crises.
Effects of plantations on rainfall redistribution in a rocky mountain area of North China
Authors: Lu Shan , Yang Letian , Tang Wu , Tian Shuailin , Ma Ruijing , Sang Yuqiang , Zhang Jinsong , Zhang Zhi‐Hua , Shi Yuefeng
Published: October 2024

Rainfall redistribution plays a crucial role in the water cycle. However, the main factors affecting the redistribution of rainfall remain uncertain. We chose three different plantations—cork oak (Quercus variabilis Bl.), oriental arborvitae (Platycladus orientalis L.) and black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.)—to investigate the role of plantations in rainfall redistribution and to determine the main factors influencing rainfall redistribution. The results indicated that cork oak exhibited the highest stemflow (0.34%) and the lowest canopy interception (12.58%), whereas black locust had the lowest stemflow (0.21%), and oriental arborvitae displayed the greatest canopy interception (32.8%). Under different density conditions for cork oaks, the stemflow was highest (0.39%) in low‐density forests with 750 trees ha−2 and lowest (0.34%) in medium‐density forests with 1100 trees ha−2. Meanwhile, the highest canopy interception (17.68%) was observed in high‐density forests (1300 trees ha−2), while the lowest interception rate (9.22%) was found in low‐density forests. The main factors affecting rainfall redistribution and their contribution rates were as follows: bark roughness index (35%), wind speed (18.6%), tree species (14.2%), diameter at breast height (11.2%), stand density (9.6%) and rainfall amount (5.4%). Our findings suggested that structural characteristics of trees are the primary factors affecting rainfall redistribution. Planting cork oak in the rocky mountain regions of North China is recommended because of its substantial stemflow production, particularly under low‐density growth conditions. Therefore, this study has significant guiding implications for the selection of afforestation tree species in similar rocky mountain areas globally.
Biomarkers for systemic lupus erythematosus: A scoping review
Authors: Zhang Su‐jie , Xu Rui‐yang , Kang Long‐li
Published: October 2024

Background

In recent years, newly discovered potential biomarkers have great research potential in the diagnosis, disease activity prediction, and treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).

Objective

In this study, a scoping review of potential biomarkers for SLE over several years has identified the extent to which studies on biomarkers for SLE have been conducted, the specificity, sensitivity, and diagnostic value of potential biomarkers of SLE, the research potential of these biomarkers in disease diagnosis, and activity detection is discussed.

Methods

In PubMed and Google Scholar databases, “SLE,” “biomarkers,” “predictor,” “autoimmune diseases,” “lupus nephritis,” “neuropsychiatric SLE,” “diagnosis,” “monitoring,” and “disease activity” were used as keywords to systematically search for SLE molecular biomarkers published from 2020 to 2024. Analyze and summarize the literature that can guide the article.

Conclusions

Recent findings suggest that some potential biomarkers may have clinical application prospects. However, to date, many of these biomarkers have not been subjected to repeated clinical validation. And no single biomarker has sufficient sensitivity and specificity for SLE. It is not scientific to choose only one or several biomarkers to judge the complex disease of SLE. It may be a good direction to carry out a meta‐analysis of various biomarkers to find SLE biomarkers suitable for clinical use, or to evaluate SLE by combining multiple biomarkers through mathematical models. At the same time, advanced computational methods are needed to analyze large data sets and discover new biomarkers, and strive to find biomarkers that are sensitive and specific enough to SLE and can be used in clinical practice, rather than only staying in experimental research and data analysis.