bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kinetic and dynamical properties of truncated hemoglobins of the Antarctic bacterium Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis TAC125
Authors: de Armiño Diego Javier Alonso , Di Lella Santiago , Montepietra Daniele , Delcanale Pietro , Bruno Stefano , Giordano Daniela , Verde Cinzia , Estrin Dario A. , Viappiani Cristiano , Abbruzzetti Stefania
Published: June 2024

Due to the low temperature, the Antarctic marine environment is challenging for protein functioning. Cold‐adapted organisms have evolved proteins endowed with higher flexibility and lower stability in comparison to their thermophilic homologs, resulting in enhanced reaction rates at low temperatures. The Antarctic bacterium Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis TAC125 (PhTAC125) genome is one of the few examples of coexistence of multiple hemoglobin genes encoding, among others, two constitutively transcribed 2/2 hemoglobins (2/2Hbs), also named truncated Hbs (TrHbs), belonging to the Group II (or O), annotated as PSHAa0030 and PSHAa2217. In this work, we describe the ligand binding kinetics and their interrelationship with the dynamical properties of globin Ph‐2/2HbO‐2217 by combining experimental and computational approaches and implementing a new computational method to retrieve information from molecular dynamic trajectories. We show that our approach allows us to identify docking sites within the protein matrix that are potentially able to transiently accommodate ligands and migration pathways connecting them. Consistently with ligand rebinding studies, our modeling suggests that the distal heme pocket is connected to the solvent through a low energy barrier, while inner cavities play only a minor role in modulating rebinding kinetics.
Pyriproxyfen enhances germline stem cell proliferation and reduces reproduction in Drosophila by up‐regulating juvenile hormone signaling
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Zaryab , Liu Jin , Zhang Jing , Yang Liying , Sun Zhipeng , Zhong Guohua
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Pyriproxyfen is an insect growth regulator (IGR) that is effective against various types of insect pests. However, the molecular mechanism underlying pyriproxyfen effects on insect reproduction remains unclear. Thus, in this study, we attempted to uncover the mechanisms underlying the impact of pyriproxyfen on the reproductive system of the model organism Drosophila melanogaster.

RESULTS

A significant decrease in Drosophila reproduction was observed after pyriproxyfen treatment. The juvenile hormone (JH) titer was significantly increased (120.4%) in the ovary samples of pyriproxyfen‐treated flies. Likewise, the concentrations of key enzymes and the expression of key genes related to the JH signaling pathway were also increased in the pyriproxyfen‐treated group compared with the control group. Furthermore, pyriproxyfen treatment significantly increased (15.6%) the number of germline stem cells (GSCs) and significantly decreased (17%) the number of cystoblasts (CBs). However, no significant differences were observed in the number of somatic cells. We performed RNA interference (RNAi) on five key genes (Met, Tai, gce, ftz‐f1, and hairy) related to the JH signaling pathway in germ cells using the germ cell‐specific Gal4 driver. Interestingly, RNAi of the selected genes significantly decreased the number of both GSCs and CBs in pyriproxyfen‐treated transgenic flies. These results further validate that pyriproxyfen enhances GSC proliferation by up‐regulating JH signaling.

CONCLUSION

Our results indicate that pyriproxyfen significantly decreases reproduction by affecting germ cells in female adult ovaries. The effect of pyriproxyfen on germ cell proliferation and differentiation is mediated by an increase in JH signaling. This study has significant implications for optimizing pest control strategies, developing sustainable agriculture practices, and understanding the mechanism of insecticide action. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
SAAM II: A general mathematical modeling rapid prototyping environment
Authors: Perazzolo Simone
Published: June 2024

Simulation Analysis and Modeling II (SAAM II) is a graphical modeling software used in life sciences for compartmental model analysis, particularly, but not exclusively, appreciated in pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD), metabolism, and tracer modeling. Its intuitive “circles and arrows” visuals allow users to easily build, solve, and fit compartmental models without the need for coding. It is suitable for rapid prototyping of models for complex kinetic analysis or PK/PD problems, and in educating students and non‐modelers. Although it is straightforward in design, SAAM II incorporates sophisticated algorithms programmed in C to address ordinary differential equations, deal with complex systems via forcing functions, conduct multivariable regression featuring the Bayesian maximum a posteriori, perform identifiability and sensitivity analyses, and offer reporting functionalities, all within a single package. After 26 years from the last SAAM II tutorial paper, we demonstrate here SAAM II's updated applicability to current life sciences challenges. We review its features and present four contemporary case studies, including examples in target‐mediated PK/PD, CAR‐T‐cell therapy, viral dynamics, and transmission models in epidemiology. Through such examples, we demonstrate that SAAM II provides a suitable interface for rapid model selection and prototyping. By enabling the fast creation of detailed mathematical models, SAAM II addresses a unique requirement within the mathematical modeling community.
Information communication technology, globalization, and energy poverty: Prospects for sustainable development in the N‐11 countries
Authors: Wang Chenxi , Pan Xingguang , Wang Deli , Zafar Muhammad Wasif
Published: June 2024

Energy poverty is a significant barrier to sustainable development, affecting millions of people worldwide. However, technology offers innovative solutions that can bridge the energy gap and promote access to reliable and affordable energy services. In this study, we analyze the impact of ICT and globalization on energy poverty in N‐11 countries from 1990 to 2021, utilizing education, financial development, and economic growth as control variables. Results explain that the impact of ICT on energy poverty in lower quantiles appears to be relatively weak and positive, suggesting that it may be of limited effectiveness in reducing energy poverty in the most vulnerable populations. At higher quantiles, however, the impact becomes increasingly hostile, which suggests that higher ICT levels may exacerbate energy poverty among those who are already experiencing it. Energy poverty tends to decrease as globalization increases, as evidenced by the statistically significant negative coefficients across all quantiles. At the 10th percentile (Q0.1), an increase of one unit in globalization is associated with a reduction of 0.898 in energy poverty. Similarly, at the 90th percentile (Q0.9), an increase of one unit in globalization increases to 0.050 in energy poverty. It is possible to optimize resource utilization, reduce costs, and increase energy access through regional energy cooperation frameworks, such as cross‐border electricity grids or gas pipelines. In order to promote sustainable energy practices among citizens, the government should prioritize investing in clean energy projects, promoting energy conservation, and raising awareness of the importance of sustainable energy practices.
Harmonic Imaging of Stem Cells in Whole Blood at GHz Pixel Rate
Authors: Karpf Sebastian , Glöckner Burmeister Nina , Dubreil Laurence , Ghosh Shayantani , Hollandi Reka , Pichon Julien , Leroux Isabelle , Henkel Alessandra , Lutz Valerie , Jurkevičius Jonas , Latshaw Alexandra , Kilin Vasyl , Kutscher Tonio , Wiggert Moritz , Saavedra‐Villanueva Oscar , Vogel Alfred , Huber Robert A. , Horvath Peter , Rouger Karl , Bonacina Luigi
Published: June 2024

The pre‐clinical validation of cell therapies requires monitoring the biodistribution of transplanted cells in tissues of host organisms. Real‐time detection of these cells in the circulatory system and identification of their aggregation state is a crucial piece of information, but necessitates deep penetration and fast imaging with high selectivity, subcellular resolution, and high throughput. In this study, multiphoton‐based in‐flow detection of human stem cells in whole, unfiltered blood is demonstrated in a microfluidic channel. The approach relies on a multiphoton microscope with diffractive scanning in the direction perpendicular to the flow via a rapidly wavelength‐swept laser. Stem cells are labeled with metal oxide harmonic nanoparticles. Thanks to their strong and quasi‐instantaneous second harmonic generation (SHG), an imaging rate in excess of 10 000 frames per second is achieved with pixel dwell times of 1 ns, a duration shorter than typical fluorescence lifetimes yet compatible with SHG. Through automated cell identification and segmentation, morphological features of each individual detected event are extracted and cell aggregates are distinguished from isolated cells. This combination of high‐speed multiphoton microscopy and high‐sensitivity SHG nanoparticle labeling in turbid media promises the detection of rare cells in the bloodstream for assessing novel cell‐based therapies.
Feline sarcoptic mange in Poland: A case series of three cats
Authors: Szczepanik Marcin , Wilkolek Piotr , Kalisz Grzegorz , Szczepaniak Klaudiusz
Published: June 2024

Background

Sarcoptic mange is rare in cats. The main symptoms reported in cases of feline sarcoptic mange include crusty lesions and pruritus, although these may vary in severity among individuals.

Objectives

This report describes three cats infested with Sarcoptes scabiei, all presenting with pruritus and excoriation.

Methods

The diagnosis was confirmed by microscopic observation of skin scrape samples.

Results

All three cats were treated successfully using moxidectin and imidacloprid, selamectin and ivermectin, respectively.

Conclusions

The clinical presentation of feline scabies appears to be more variable in cats than in dogs. Infestation with S. scabiei should be considered a differential diagnosis for cats presenting with pruritic inflammatory skin disease.
Influence of boundary layer and pressure lag on unsteady aerodynamics of airfoil based on a simple semi‐empirical dynamic stall engineering model
Authors: Chen Meng , Li Zhiguo , Gao Zhiying , Wang Jianwen
Published: June 2024

In view of the fact that dynamic stall models in the wind energy industry such as ONERA model, Beddoes–Leishman model, and Snel model are mostly semi‐empirical models, and the determination of empirical time constants has a great influence on the model accuracy. To optimize the time constant in dynamic stall model and improve the prediction accuracy of unsteady aerodynamics, the influence of boundary layer and pressure lag on the unsteady performance of the S809 airfoil under 2D flow conditions is explored using a simple semi‐empirical dynamic stall engineering model. The proposed model consists of four first‐order differential equations accounting for attached flow and dynamic separation flow of trailing edge based on the Theodorsen theory. A validation is carried out by the wind tunnel experiment in the Key Laboratory of Wind and Solar Energy Utilization Technology of the Ministry of Education at Inner Mongolia University of Technology. The main conclusions are as follows. The time constants for lag in pressure and boundary layer both have a great influence on the unsteady lift coefficient. When the mean angle of attack is relatively small and the airflow is between the attached flow and the separated flow, appropriately reducing the time constant can make the prediction results closer to the experimental values. When the mean angle of attack is relatively large and the airflow is in condition of fully separated flow, the time constant value can be appropriately increased. The influence of pressure lag and boundary layer lag on the unsteady drag coefficient is not significant.
Aboriginal Curriculum Enactment: Stirring Teachers into the Practices of Learning from Country in the City
Authors: Thorpe Katrina , Burgess Cathie , Grice Christine
Published: June 2024

In this chapter, the theory of practice architectures is used to identify and analyse the cultural-discursive, material-economic, and social–political arrangements that enable and/or constrain early career teachers in applying Aboriginal curriculum and pedagogies to their daily teaching practice. These teachers completed Aboriginal community-led ‘Learning from Country’ (LFC) electives at university, and so this chapter details the extent to which they were able to enact this learning when they began teaching in schools. Key findings highlight the critical role of school sites in supporting or dismissing teachers’ efforts. A lack of material resources and time to fully implement LFC was a key concern. Nevertheless, teachers focused on strengths-based learning approaches and developing relationships with Aboriginal communities, creating solidarity between local Aboriginal communities and the teachers. Through enacting LFC, a sense of belonging and connection to place was developed and teachers were empowered through experiencing Aboriginal Knowledges as ‘real’ and valuable. Despite often oppressive, ignorant, and dismissive system-wide practices, teachers demonstrated passion, commitment, and courage through centring Aboriginal voices, Country, and Knowledges in the educational practices of their site. We suggest LFC facilitates Yindyamara Winhanga-nha’—‘the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in’.
Introduction: Drawing the Future into the Present
Authors: Kemmis Stephen , Reimer Kristin Elaine , Mahon Kathleen
Published: June 2024

This chapter introduces Volume Two of a two-volume series based on the double purpose of education: to help people to live well, and to help create worlds worth living in. Like Volume One, this volume presents stories that have emerged within a ‘listening project’, an international empirical project aimed at understanding different perspectives from various parts of the world, from children to adults, from across diverse communities, on what it means to live well in a world worth living well for all. The project especially pays attention to perspectives that are often marginalised, silenced, or somehow lost in the busyness and noisyness, power struggles, and preoccupations of our contemporary world. The chapter provides background information about the project and a glimpse of what the stories in the contributions in this volume reveal. It also highlights some of the important ways in which the experiences and perspectives shared in the contributions reflect a strong sense of agency, urgency, and hope, both in the face of personal, local, and/or global challenges and in people’s everyday efforts to actually create the futures they imagine.
Glucagon-like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Diabetic Osteopathy: Another Positive Effect of Incretines? A 12 Months Longitudinal Study
Authors: Al Refaie Antonella , Baldassini Leonardo , Mondillo Caterina , Ceccarelli Elena , Tarquini Roberto , Gennari Luigi , Gonnelli Stefano , Caffarelli Carla
Published: June 2024

Diabetic osteopathy is a frequent complication in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The association between T2DM and increased fracture risk has led to study the impact of new antidiabetic drugs on bone metabolism. Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are incretin mimetic drugs which have many pleiotropic properties. The relationship between GLP-1RAs and bone is very complex: while in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated a protective effect on bone, human studies are scarce. We led a 12 months longitudinal study evaluating bone changes in 65 patients withT2DM for whom a therapy with GLP-1RAs had been planned. Fifty-four T2DM patients completed the 12-month study period; of them, 30 had been treated with weekly dulaglutide and 24 with weekly semaglutide. One-year therapy with GLP-1RAs resulted in a significant reduction in weight and BMI. Bone mineral density (BMD), bone metabolism, trabecular bone score (TBS), adiponectin, and myostatin were evaluated before and after 12 months of GLP-1RAs therapy. After 12 months of therapy bone turnover markers and adiponectin showed a significant increase, while myostatin values showed a modest but significant reduction. BMD-LS by DXA presented a significant reduction while the reduction in BMD-LS by REMS was not significant and TBS values showed a marginal increase. Both DXA and REMS techniques showed a modest but significant reduction in femoral BMD. In conclusion, the use of GLP-1RAs for 12 months preserves bone quality and reactivates bone turnover. Further studies are needed to confirm whether GLP-1RAs could represent a useful therapeutic option for patients with T2DM and osteoporosis.
Diversification of von Willebrand Factor A and Chitin-Binding Domains in Pif/BMSPs Among Mollusks
Authors: Shimizu Keisuke , Negishi Lumi , Kurumizaka Hitoshi , Suzuki Michio
Published: June 2024

Pif is a shell matrix protein (SMP) identified in the nacreous layer of Pinctada fucata (Pfu) comprised two proteins, Pif97 and Pif 80. Pif97 contains a von Willebrand factor A (VWA) and chitin-binding domains, whereas Pif80 can bind calcium carbonate crystals. The VWA domain is conserved in the SMPs of various mollusk species; however, their phylogenetic relationship remains obscure. Furthermore, although the VWA domain participates in protein–protein interactions, its role in shell formation has not been established. Accordingly, in the current study, we investigate the phylogenetic relationship between PfuPif and other VWA domain-containing proteins in major mollusk species. The shell-related proteins containing VWA domains formed a large clade (the Pif/BMSP family) and were classified into eight subfamilies with unique sequential features, expression patterns, and taxa diversity. Furthermore, a pull-down assay using recombinant proteins containing the VWA domain of PfuPif 97 revealed that the VWA domain interacts with five nacreous layer-related SMPs of P. fucata, including Pif 80 and nacrein. Collectively, these results suggest that the VWA domain is important in the formation of organic complexes and participates in shell mineralisation.
InceptCurves: curve reconstruction using an inception network
Authors: Barzegar Khalilsaraei Saeedeh , Komar Alexander , Zheng Jianmin , Augsdörfer Ursula
Published: June 2024

Curve reconstruction is a fundamental task in many visual computing applications. In this paper, a data-driven approach for curve reconstruction is proposed. We present an inception layered deep neural network structure, capable of learning simultaneously the number of control points and their positions in order to reconstruct the curve. To train the network, a large set of general synthetic data is generated. The reconstructed uniform B-spline closely approximates any arbitrary input curve, with or without intersections. Because the network predicts the number of control points required for the B-spline reconstruction, redundancy is reduced in the curve representation. We demonstrate our approach on various examples.
Healthy dietary pattern is associated with lower glycemia independently of the genetic risk of type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study in Finnish men
Authors: Tolonen Ulla , Lankinen Maria , Laakso Markku , Schwab Ursula
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Hyperglycemia is affected by lifestyle and genetic factors. We investigated if dietary patterns associate with glycemia in individuals with high or low genetic risk for type 2 diabetes (T2D).

Methods

Men (n = 1577, 51–81 years) without T2D from the Metabolic Syndrome in Men (METSIM) cohort filled a food-frequency questionnaire and participated in a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test. Polygenetic risk score (PRS) including 76 genetic variants was used to stratify participants into low or high T2D risk groups. We established two data-driven dietary patterns, termed healthy and unhealthy, and investigated their association with plasma glucose concentrations and hyperglycemia risk.

Results

Healthy dietary pattern was associated with lower fasting and 2-hour plasma glucose, glucose area under the curve, and better insulin sensitivity (Matsuda insulin sensitivity index) and insulin secretion (disposition index) in unadjusted and adjusted models, whereas the unhealthy pattern was not. No interaction was observed between the patterns and PRS on glycemic measures. Healthy dietary pattern was negatively associated with the risk for hyperglycemia in an adjusted model (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.51–0.95, in the highest tertile), whereas unhealthy pattern was not (OR 1.08, 95% CI 0.79–1.47, in the highest tertile). No interaction was found between diet and PRS on the risk for hyperglycemia (p = 0.69 for healthy diet, p = 0.54 for unhealthy diet).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that healthy diet is associated with lower glucose concentrations and lower risk for hyperglycemia in men with no interaction with the genetic risk.
Parent experiences of the esophageal atresia journey during the early post-natal period: results from a support group perspective
Authors: de Vos Corné , de Vos Werner , Widemann-Grolig Anke , van Wyk Lizelle , Sidler Daniel , Goussard Pierre
Published: June 2024

Surgically repaired esophageal atresia (EA) is associated with chronic esophageal and respiratory morbidity that require ongoing management. The care of chronically ill children can exert considerable stress on parents, thereby potentially affecting their mental well-being. In response to this, disease-specific support groups have emerged with the aim to bring together individuals facing similar challenges, facilitating the exchange of experiences within a nurturing environment, and providing essential emotional support. In the context of this international collaborative study, we investigated the role played by EA-specific support groups in promoting the emotional well-being of EA families. An anonymous online survey was distributed through a network comprising 12 international EA support groups affiliated with the Federation of Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula (EAT) during May and August of 2022. In the study, 96 parents from 23 different countries completed the survey. Fifty-six percent indicated a lack of interaction with other EA families during the initial diagnosis, with 91% expressing the belief that such contact would have been beneficial. Participants exhibited a unanimous recognition of the critical role played by disease-specific support groups in navigating the emotional journey associated with EA.

Conclusion: The findings of this global survey align with existing literature, reaffirming the beneficial impact of disease-specific support groups tailored for EA patients and their families on their emotional well-being. These groups provide a valuable platform for the exchange of personal experiences and narratives, delivering advantages to both those who share their stories and those who receive this valuable information.

What is Known:

• Parents are exposed to several stressors during the neonatal period.• Emotional well-being of EA families is important.What is New:• EA support groups play a valuable role in the emotional well-being of EA families.• Family-centered care of neonates should also include older siblings of neonates in NICU.
Conducting volcanic ash cloud exercises: practising forecast evaluation procedures and the pull-through of scientific advice to the London VAAC
Authors: Beckett Frances , Barsotti Sara , Burton Ralph , Dioguardi Fabio , Engwell Sam , Hort Matthew , Kristiansen Nina , Loughlin Sue , Muscat Anton , Osborne Martin , Saint Cameron , Stevenson John , Valters Declan , Witham Claire
Published: June 2024

The London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) provides forecasts on the expected presence of volcanic ash in the atmosphere to mitigate the risk to aviation. It is fundamentally important that operational capability is regularly tested through exercises, to guarantee an effective response to an event. We have developed exercises which practise the pull-through of scientific advice into the London VAAC, the forecast evaluation process, and the decision-making procedures and discussions needed for generating the best possible forecasts under real-time conditions. London VAAC dispersion model forecasts are evaluated against observations. To test this capability in an exercise, we must create observation data for a hypothetical event. We have developed new methodologies for generating and using simulated satellite and lidar retrievals. These simulated observations enable us to practise our ability to interpret, compare, and evaluate model output and observation data under real-time conditions. Forecast evaluation can benefit from an understanding of how different choices of model setup (input parameters), model physics, and driving meteorological data impact the predicted extent and concentration of ash. Through our exercises, we have practised comparing output from model simulations generated using different models, model setups, and meteorological data, supplied by different institutions. Our exercises also practise the communication and interaction between Met Office (UK) scientists supporting the London VAAC and external experts, enabling knowledge exchange and discussions on the interpretation of model output and observations, as we strive to deliver the best response capability for the aviation industry and stakeholders. In this paper, we outline our exercise methodology, including the use of simulated satellite and lidar observations, and the development of the strategy to compare output generated from different modelling systems. We outline the lessons learnt, including the benefits and challenges of conducting exercises which practise our ability to provide scientific advice for an operational response at the London VAAC.
Major cardiovascular events in long-term multiple myeloma survivors: a Korean case–control study (the CAREMM-2105 study)
Authors: Ha Jeonghoon , Choi Suein , Moon Seulji , Han Jinseon , Lee Jeongyoon , Baek Ki-Hyun , Han Seunghoon , Park Sung-Soo , Min Chang-Ki
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Despite improvements in multiple myeloma (MM) survival rates, data on cardiovascular outcomes in long-term survivors remain lacking.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study utilized the Korean National Health Insurance Service database (2009–2020) to compare the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD) between patients with MM and a matched control group, focusing on long-term (> 5 years) survivors. A preliminary case cohort (n = 15,402 patients with MM) and a matched control cohort (n = 123,216 patients without MM) were established based on birth year and sex. Following 1:1 propensity score matching, the final matched cohorts each comprised 15,402 participants.

Results

The case and control cohorts were comparable in mean age (66.2 ± 11.5 years vs. 66.1 ± 11.3 years), sex, age distribution, and comorbidities. By the 8-year follow-up, the cumulative incidence of CV events (12.5% vs. 22.1%) and CVD risk were significantly lower in the case cohort. The 5-year landmark analysis revealed significant differences in CVD incidence between the cohorts (7.8% [case cohort] vs. 9.8% [control cohort]), with variations across age groups and sex, highlighting a significantly higher CVD risk among patients aged < 50 years in the case cohort (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

These findings underscore the need for vigilant CVD monitoring in MM long-term survivors, particularly those aged < 50 years at first diagnosis.

Implication for Cancer Survivors

This study highlights the importance of integrating cardiovascular monitoring and risk management into long-term care for MM survivors, with a focus on younger patients and personalized interventions.
Nanoprecipitation to produce hydrophobic cellulose nanospheres for water-in-oil Pickering emulsions
Authors: Tiban Anrango Bryan Andres , Naiya Mohinder Maheshbhai , Van Dongen Josh , Matich Olivia , Whitby Catherine P. , Chen Jack L.-Y.
Published: June 2024

In recent years, there has been growing interest in replacing petroleum-based water-in-oil (W/O) emulsifiers with sustainable and less toxic natural materials. Pickering emulsifiers are considered well-suited candidates due to their high interfacial activity and the ability to form emulsions with long-term stability. However, only sporadic examples of natural materials have been considered as inverse Pickering emulsifiers. This study describes the synthesis of a series of hydrophobic cellulose nanospheres by bulk modification with acyl groups of different chain lengths followed by nanoprecipitation, and their application as inverse emulsifiers. Modification with acyl groups of longer chain length (C16, C18) afforded lower degrees of substitution, but resulted in greater thermal stability than groups with shorter acyl chains (C12, C14). Formation of nanospheres with low aspect ratios and narrow size distributions required low initial cellulose concentrations (< 1% w/v), high volumetric ratios of antisolvent to solvent (> 10:1), and slow addition rates (< 20 mL/h). The modified cellulose nanospheres were able to reduce the interfacial tension between water and hexane from 45.8 mN/m to 31.1 mN/m, with an effect that increased with the number of carbons in the added acyl chains. The stearate-modified nanospheres exhibited superhydrophobic behavior, showing a contact angle of 156° ± 4° with water, and demonstrated emulsification performance comparable to the commonly used molecular surfactant sorbitan stearate. Our findings suggest that hydrophobically modified cellulose nanospheres have the potential to be a bio-derived alternative to traditional molecular W/O emulsifiers.

Graphical Abstract
Psychological Flexibility Profiles and Mental Health Among University Students with Left-Behind Experience: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Ning Meng , Chen Qirong , Li Yamin , Huang Chongmei
Published: June 2024

The left-behind experience as an adverse childhood experience has a negative impact on the mental health of university students. Psychological inflexibility mediated the relationship between adverse childhood experiences and mental disorders, but no similar findings were drawn in psychological flexibility (PF). More research is needed to understand the relationship between PF and mental health of university students with left-behind experience. To investigate the relationship between PF profiles and mental health and sleep quality of university students with left-behind experience based on latent profile analysis. A sample of 1988 Chinese university students with left-behind experience were recruited to complete an online survey. Participants provided demographic information and completed validated measures of PF and mental health. Latent profile analysis was used to identify patterns of PF, and logistic regression analysis was used to examine the relationships among these variables. We found four PF profiles among participants, with the largest number being the moderately flexible profile (n = 808, 40.6%). The level of PF was positively correlated with mental health and sleep quality (all P < 0.001). Females, being left behind at a young age and for a long time, and having little contact with parents were associated with low PF (all P < 0.05). Our study highlights the importance of focusing on the PF of university students with left-behind experience and left-behind children, and the need for interventions to improve their PF and thus their mental health.
Examining S-T-E-M Teachers’ Design of Integrated STEM Lesson Plans
Authors: Nipyrakis Argyris , Stavrou Dimitris , Avraamidou Lucy
Published: June 2024

Reform efforts in different parts of the world call for the adoption of integrated approaches to STEM education. However, little is known about how teachers work, as members of learning communities, to design STEM teaching material such as lesson plans. To address this gap in the literature, we examined the design of STEM lesson plans by in-service secondary teachers (n = 26) from all S-T-E-M disciplinary backgrounds who participated as members of a learning community in the context of a 7-month professional development program comprised of 13 small-group sessions. STEM lesson plans were analysed based on the key characteristics of a conceptual framework of integrated STEM, and the teachers’ identified interdisciplinary elements were analysed through the boundary objects framework. The qualitative content analysis produced four main findings: (a) divergencies take place at the disciplinary level when teachers design STEM lesson plans; (b) teachers coming from different disciplines have different positioning regarding specific integrated STEM key characteristics; (c) the type and sequence of instructional activities served as a boundary-design practice; (d) the nature of the boundary objects that teachers identify in order to teach integrated STEM differs according to the discipline. The findings of the study shed light on teachers’ understanding and needs at the disciplinary level and call for specially designed STEM professional development programmes that provide explicit opportunities for disciplinary boundary crossings.
Bubble Point Measurements of cis-1,1,1,4,4,4-Hexafluorobutene [R-1336mzz(Z)] + trans-1,2-Dichloroethene [R-1130(E)] mixtures
Authors: Rowane Aaron J. , Outcalt Stephanie L.
Published: June 2024

Saturation pressures of pure R-1336mzz(Z) and R-1130(E) and bubble point pressures of three R-1336mzz(Z)/1130(E) blends were measured from 265 K to 360 K. For each pure refrigerant or refrigerant blend, a total of twenty unique saturation pressures or bubble points were measured. In total 100 unique state points were obtained. Presently, no Helmholtz-energy-explicit type equation of state (EoS) is available for R-1130(E). While an extended corresponding states EoS for R-1130(E) is available to estimate the properties of the R-1336mzz(Z)/1130(E) blend, this model does not resolve the azeotropic behavior of the mixture. Therefore, the perturbed-chain statistical-associating fluid theory (PC-SAFT) EoS is used to model the vapor–liquid equilibria of the R-1336mzz(Z)/1130(E) blend. PC-SAFT model parameters are reported, and the overall performance of the model is characterized by deviations from the experimental data.
Value of Original and Generated Ultrasound Data Towards Training Robust Classifiers for Breast Cancer Identification
Authors: Munteanu Bianca-Ştefania , Murariu Alexandra , Nichitean Mǎrioara , Pitac Luminiţa-Gabriela , Dioşan Laura
Published: June 2024

Breast cancer represents one of the leading causes of death among women, with 1 in 39 (around 2.5%) of them losing their lives annually, at the global level. According to the American Cancer Society, it is the second most lethal type of cancer in females, preceded only by lung cancer. Early diagnosis is crucial in increasing the chances of survival. In recent years, the incidence rate has increased by 0.5% per year, with 1 in 8 women at increased risk of developing a tumor during their life. Despite technological advances, there are still difficulties in identifying, characterizing, and accurately monitoring malignant tumors. The main focus of this article is on the computerized diagnosis of breast cancer. The main objective is to solve this problem using intelligent algorithms, that are built with artificial neural networks and involve 3 important steps: augmentation, segmentation, and classification. The experiment was made using a publicly available dataset that contains medical ultrasound images, collected from approximately 600 female patients (it is considered a benchmark). The results of the experiment are close to the goal set by our team. The final accuracy obtained is 86%.
On the structure of vertex stabilizers of arc-transitive locally quasiprimitive graphs
Authors: van Bon J.
Published: June 2024

Let $$\Delta $$
Δ
be a connected arc-transitive G-graph which is locally finite and locally quasiprimitive. Let $$\{x,y\}$$

{
x
,
y
}

be an edge of $$\Delta $$
Δ
. A relation between $$G_x^{[1]}/O_p(G_x^{[1]})$$

G
x

[
1
]

/

O
p

(

G
x

[
1
]

)

and the existence of certain normal subgroups of $$G_x^{\Delta (x)}$$

G
x

Δ
(
x
)

and $$G_{x,y}^{\Delta (x)}$$

G

x
,
y

Δ
(
x
)

is established. This is then used to determine the vertex stabilizers of a class of 2-arc-transitive graphs with trivial edge kernel.
Novel promising aqueous electrolytes for manganese dioxide/stainless steel pseudocapacitor electrode
Authors: Hassan Sameh , Khafagy A. H. , Usama Dalia
Published: June 2024

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) films are developed by potentiostatic electrodeposition on a stainless steel sheet as a current collector using manganese acetate tetrahydrate solution at a concentration of 0.25 mol L−1. The deposited sample layer is found to be amorphous as confirmed by the scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses. The capacitive property of the prepared electrodes is characterized by charging/discharging, cyclic voltammetry, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy techniques in four different aqueous solutions; sodium sulfate, magnesium acetate, nickel acetate, and a mixture of sodium chloride + sodium bicarbonate + borax. Charge–discharge curves reveal higher specific capacitance (Cs) of 1580 F g−1 at 0.5 mA cm−2 for the investigated MnO2 film which is characterized in Ni acetate aqueous solution. The structural, morphological, and electrochemical properties of the electrodeposited manganese oxide films are also studied. The results indicate that the specific capacitance of the deposited samples showed a strong dependency on the electrolyte aqueous solutions, resulting in developing new electrolytes which is a top priority effort in comparison to seeking new electrode materials. It is found that the matching between the pore size structure of the electrode and the ion size of the electrolyte is of great importance for the improved capacity of prepared capacitors.
Self-Testing for Dementia: A Phenomenological Analysis of Fear
Authors: Kapeller Alexandra , de Boer Marjolein
Published: June 2024

Following the growing economic relevance of mobile health (mHealth) and the increasing global prevalence of dementia, self-testing apps for dementia and mild neurocognitive disorder (MCD) have been developed and advertised. The apps’ promise of a quick and easy tool has been criticized in the literature from a variety of angles, but as we argue in this article, the celebratory characterization of self-testing also stands in disbalance to the various kinds of fears that may be connected to taking the test. By drawing on Sara Ahmed’s phenomenological theory on emotions and by referring to illustrative experiences from two users with a particular dementia self-testing app, we explore four dimensions of fear derived from phenomenology: performative, ontological, embodied, and temporal dimensions. We argue that fear (1) motivates one to take the self-test and to try to take control over one’s health; (2) is shaped by and shapes the ways in which we make sense of ourselves and others as cognitively deficient; (3) constructs and is constructed by our differently embodied presence in the world; and that (4) testing makes a fearful future self as cognitively deficient more tangible. In outlining these different dimensions of fear, this article expands the understanding of the meaning of experiencing self-testing in comparison to the mostly quantitative literature on this topic.
Enhanced optical and antimicrobial activities of mono Zn and bimetallic (Zn, Co), (Zn, Pd) ions modified MCM-41: structural and morphological investigation
Authors: Wahba Mohammed Ahmed , Khaled Rabab K. , Dawy Magdah , Moharam Maysa E.
Published: June 2024

Mono and bimetallic modified MCM-41(Mobil Composition of Matter No. 41): Zn-MCM (ZM), Zn/Co-MCM41 (ZCM), and Zn/Pd-MCM-41 (ZPM) molecular sieves were produced by a surfactant-assisted technique. The structural and textural features were examined through spectroscopic and analytical techniques. The XRD analysis indicated broadening of diffraction peaks and a shift towards higher 2-theta values in the metal-incorporated (M-MCM-41) samples, confirming the successful integration of metal atoms into the MCM-41 framework; it also highlighted the preservation of a hexagonal structure with reasonable regularity, emphasizing the influence of metal incorporation on the mesoporous architecture of MCM-41. N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms revealed type IV isotherms for all samples; the BET specific surface area decreased to 672.48, 667.90, and 562.50 m2/g in ZM, ZCM, and ZPM, respectively comparing to the unincorporated MCM-41 sample (1200 m2/g), indicating partial filling of mesopores by metal centers, as confirmed by TEM images. The diffuse reflectance spectra exhibited a noteworthy optical band gap reduction of MCM-41 (5.98 eV) upon the incorporation of Zn and Co/Zn ions, resulting in values of 5.86 and 5.24 eV, respectively, with refractive index values close to 2. Additional absorption bands energies are observed at 3.14, 3.18, and 1.70 eV in ZM, ZPM, and ZCM samples, respectively suggesting the suitability of the metal incorporated samples for the photocatalytic applications. The M-incorporated samples exhibited a decline in the transmission intensity accompanied by small shifts. The enhanced antimicrobial activity of the metal-incorporated samples, surpassing that of the pure MCM-41 against a variety of tested microorganisms, is attributed to the presence of incorporated metal species, which create a more acidic environment and substantially contribute to the heightened antimicrobial effectiveness. The ZM compound demonstrated potent inhibition against Bacillus cereus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria, displaying comparable efficacy to Ampicillin, as a reference antibiotic. Additionally, ZPM exhibited considerable inhibitory activity against Escherichia coli, surpassing the reference antibiotic and showing similar effectiveness against Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella typhimurium.
Sustainability Report of Portuguese Municipalities: The Three Pillars of Sustainable Development
Authors: Calazans Nara , Marques Tânia , Eugénio Teresa , Gomes Jorge F. S.
Published: June 2024

Studies regarding the economic, social, and environmental impacts of sustainable policies and practices in the public sector are scarce. This is an important gap, as the public sector is oftentimes one of the largest, if not the largest, employer in a region or a country. The current study characterizes the sustainability reporting of the Portuguese municipalities in terms of their most recent sustainability report published online, aiming to better understand the pillars of sustainability. The research is based on secondary data publicly available. Results show that only 28 municipalities (out of 308) published a sustainability report, and that most information are focused on showing a balance between environmental and economic data; the results also show that there is a lack of social information, and that only a few reports show an alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals.
Once upon a time in superspace: the diegetic ideal for the interpretation of physical theories
Authors: Rivers Imogen Lucy Grace
Published: June 2024

This paper offers a novel argument for superspace substantivalism. Superspace is a modified spacetime represented formally through combining ordinary spatial dimensions with anticommuting dimensions whose coordinates are labelled in Grassmann numbers rather than real numbers. At supersymmetric worlds, physical laws exhibit supersymmetry—viz., a symmetry that transforms bosons into fermions and vice versa. Superspace substantivalism is the thesis that, at supersymmetric worlds, among the most fundamental structures is superspace. Initially, the focus will be on a prevalent doctrine in the philosophy of physics literature which I call the mimetic ideal. On the mimetic ideal, interpreting physical theories aims primarily at specifying their ontology, namely at achieving accurate reference (in natural-language accounts of those theories) or representation (in model-theoretic portrayals of those theories) with respect to aspects of physical reality. However, I show that the mimetic ideal doesn’t seem able to account for important aspects of physics practice (Sect. 2). In Sect. 3, therefore, I articulate and defend a new, diegetic ideal, according to which the interpretation of physical theories should aim at perspectival coordination between interpreters and practising physicists. Perspectival coordination, in the context of interpreting physical theories, means that interpreters and practising physicists share a perspective or a point of view on some aspect of physical reality described by that theory. In Sect. 4, I apply this analysis to the study of supersymmetric quantum field theories (QFTs): reframing the realist framework which underlies Baker’s (2020) agnosticism, I examine the exciting upshot that superspace substantivalism is true. I conclude with some reflections on what perspectival coordination means for realism (Sect. 5).
Melamine-Maleic Acid Polyamide Adduct / Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibers as a Novel Adsorbent for Removal of Methyelene Blue Dye from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Alprol Ahmed. E. , Abu-Saied Mohamed , Thabet Walaa M. , Abdelwahab Ola , El-Ghaffar Mahmoud A. Abd
Published: June 2024

Efficient removal of methylene blue (MB) dye from aqueous solutions is crucial for addressing environmental pollution. This study investigates the potential of Melamine-maleic acid polyamide adduct/polyacrylonitrile (ME-MA amide polymer/PAN) nanofibers as a novel adsorbent for MB dye removal. Characterization via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed surface morphology changes, with fiber diameters ranging from 1 to 3 μm. Thermal stability analysis demonstrated enhanced stability for ME-MA/PAN compared to pure PAN fibers. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) analysis confirmed the presence of hydroxyl, amide, and thiol groups on the nanoparticle surface, covalently attached to the nanofiber surface. Through electrospinning, ME-MA/PAN composites were synthesized, showing promising capabilities for dye removal. Optimal conditions were observed at pH 12 and a ME-MA PAN dose of 0.02 g. MB removal efficiency increased with higher initial dye concentrations, peaking at 30 mg/L, and higher temperatures up to 40°C. Adsorption isotherm models indicated Langmuir adsorption capacity (Qm) of 111.10 mg g−1 and a separation factor (RL) of 0.297, with Freundlich constants (1/n) and KF values of 0.418 and 22.9, respectively. Kinetic and thermodynamic studies revealed favorable conditions for MB dye removal, validating ME-MA amide polymer/PAN nanofiber composites as environmentally friendly and effective materials for eliminating toxic MB dye from aqueous solutions. This research highlights the potential of ME-MA/PAN nanofibers in addressing dye pollution, suggesting their application in wastewater treatment for sustainable environmental management. Further investigation into regeneration methods and scalability is recommended for practical implementation in real-world scenarios.