bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing an asynchronous LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling training: A mixed‐methods study
Authors: Pope Amber L. , St. Germain‐Sehr Noelle , Augustine Bianca R. , St. Germain‐Sehr Amanda , Lexumé Tai , Moe Jeff , Snowden‐Gregg Senttra , Jackson Tamika N.
Published: June 2024

Master's level counseling students completed a 5‐week online asynchronous LGBTQ+ affirmative counseling training. Using a mixed‐methods and quasi‐experimental design, results indicated that participants’ LGBTQ+ knowledge, clinical skills, and advocacy increased posttraining. Content analysis revealed four themes of how students experienced the training. Implications, limitations, and future directions are discussed.
The Excited‐State N−H Tautomerization Rate in Free‐Base Corroles
Authors: Schlachter Adrien , Karsenti Paul‐Ludovic , Harvey Pierre D. , Langlois Adam
Published: June 2024

Corrole is a tetrapyrrolic dye with a structure that resembles porphyrin, apart from a single missing carbon. The absence of this carbon results in the re‐arrangement of the double bonds within the macrocycle, and the presence of three pyrrolic protons in the central cavity in its free‐base form. These protons lead to the existence of two distinct tautomeric structures that exist in a dynamic equilibrium. Although the ground‐state energies of the tautomers are similar, the excited states show a significant difference in energy which unbalances the equilibrium between the tautomers and results in rapid excited‐state tautomerization, favouring one tautomeric species over the other. Although the excited‐state tautomerization process has been known for a long time, very few studies have been performed on it, leaving many key aspects of the process poorly understood. Herein we show how ultrafast photoluminescence can be used to experimentally determine the rates of excited‐state tautomerization and activation energies of three free‐base corrole derivatives thus allowing us to completely describe the excited‐state dynamics of the unusual excited state of free‐base corrole and opening the door to the development of new materials that can exploit its unique characteristics.
All‐nonlinear static‐dynamic neural networks versus Bayesian machine learning for data‐driven modelling of chemical processes
Authors: Mukherjee Angan , Adeyemo Samuel , Bhattacharyya Debangsu
Published: June 2024

In recent decades, the utilization of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) approaches have been explored for process modelling applications. However, different types of ML models may have contrasting advantages and disadvantages, which become critical during the optimal selection of a specific data‐driven model for a particular application as well as estimation of parameters during model training. This paper compares and contrasts two different types of data‐driven modelling approaches, namely the series/parallel all‐nonlinear static‐dynamic neural network models and models from a Bayesian ML approach. Both types of AI modelling approaches considered in this work have shown to significantly outperform several state‐of‐the‐art steady‐state and dynamic data‐driven modelling techniques for various performance measures, specifically, model sparsity, predictive capabilities, and computational expense. The performances of the proposed model structures and algorithms have been evaluated for two nonlinear dynamic chemical engineering systems—a plug‐flow reactor for vapour phase cracking of acetone for production of acetic anhydride and a pilot‐plant for post‐combustion CO2 capture using monoethanolamine as the solvent. For the validation data from the CO2 capture pilot plant, root mean squared error (RMSE) for flue gas outlet temperature, flowrate and CO2 concentration is 0.05%, 1.07%, and 5.0%, respectively, for the all‐nonlinear static‐dynamic neural networks and 0.1%, 1.75%, and 14.14%, respectively, for the Bayesian ML models. For the plug flow reactor data, the Bayesian ML models yield superior RMSE compared to the all‐nonlinear static‐dynamic neural networks when the measurement data are corrupted with Gaussian, auto‐correlated, or cross‐correlated noise.
Copay accumulators: Shifting costs of oncology drugs from plans to patients
Authors: Baker Katherine Plumblee , Mullangi Samyukta
Published: June 2024

Copay accumulator programs, which exclude the benefit of manufacturer patient assistance from annual maximum out‐of‐pocket costs, shift costs for expensive oncology drugs from plans to patients. Legislation is ongoing to protect patients from these potentially harmful re‐definitions of cost‐sharing.
Low Energy (<10 eV) Electron Collision with Benzonitrile‐CCl4 Admixture: A Combined Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Abdoul‐Carime H. , Thiam Guillaume , Rabilloud Franck
Published: June 2024

Benzonitrile (BZN) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) are versatile solvents used as a precursor for the synthesis of many products. As multi‐usage molecules, these compounds may be involved in sustainable chemistry processes such as the cold plasma techniques for which the generated electrons are known to be responsible for reactions. Therefore, it is desirable to explore the interaction of low energy electrons with the co‐compounds in the gas phase. The production of chlorine and cyanine anions, initiated by the electron collision with CCl4 and BZN, respectively, undergo nucleophilic substitution SN2 reaction with the precursors molecules for the synthesis of chlorobenzene and tricholoacetonitrile. The mechanism of fragmentation of benzonitrile and the synthesis reactions are rationalized by DFT calculations. The yield of the cyanine anion produced from the ion reaction increases with the temperature of the admixture gas, probed in the 25–100 °C temperature range. The present work may contribute to a potential process for the production of chlorobenzene for instance via (cold) plasma techniques.
Ascaris Mouse Model Protocols: Advancing Research on Larval Ascariasis Biology
Authors: de Almeida Lopes Camila , Wang Jianbin , Liffner Benjamin , Absalon Sabrina , Gazzinelli‐Guimaraes Pedro H.
Published: June 2024

Ascariasis, caused by both Ascaris lumbricoides and Ascaris suum, is the most prevalent parasitic disease worldwide, affecting both human and porcine populations. However, due to the difficulties of assessing the early events of infection in humans, most studies of human ascariasis have been restricted to the chronic intestinal phase. Therefore, the Ascaris mouse model has become a fundamental tool for investigating the immunobiology and pathogenesis of the early infection stage referred to as larval ascariasis because of the model's practicality and ability to replicate the natural processes involved. The Ascaris mouse model has been widely used to explore factors such as infection resistance/susceptibility, liver inflammation, lung immune‐mediated pathology, and co‐infections and, notably, as a pivotal element in preclinical vaccine trials. Exploring the immunobiology of larval ascariasis may offer new insights into disease development and provide a substantial understanding of key components that trigger a protective immune response. This article focuses on creating a comprehensive guide for conducting Ascaris experimental infections in the laboratory as a foundation for future research efforts. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Acquisition and embryonation of Ascaris suum eggs from adult females

Alternate Protocol: Cleaning and purification of Ascaris suum from female A. suum uteri

Basic Protocol 2: Preparation of Ascaris suum eggs and murine infection

Basic Protocol 3: Measurement of larval burden and Ascaris‐larva‐induced pathogenesis

Basic Protocol 4: In vitro hatching and purification of Ascaris L3 larvae

Support Protocol: Preparation of crude antigen from Ascaris infectious stages

Basic Protocol 5: Ultrastructure‐expansion microscopy (U‐ExM) of Ascaris suum larval stages
Lumbar Intrathecal Injection in Adult and Neonatal Mice
Authors: Stavrou Marina , Georgiou Elena , Kleopa Kleopas A.
Published: June 2024

This article describes a step‐by‐step process of lumbar intrathecal injection of Evans blue dye and AAV9‐EGFP in adult (2‐month‐old) and neonatal (postnatal day 10) mice. Intrathecal injection is a clinically translatable technique that has already been extensively applied in humans. In mice, intrathecal injection is considered a challenging procedure that requires a trained and experienced researcher. For both adult and neonatal mice, lumbar intrathecal injection is directed into the L5‐L6 intervertebral space. Intrathecally injected material enters the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the intrathecal space from where it can directly access the central nervous system (CNS) parenchyma. Simultaneously, intrathecally injected material exits the CSF with pressure gradient and enters the endoneurial fluid and ultimately the peripheral nerves. While in the CSF, the injectable material also enters the bloodstream and systemic circulation through the arachnoid villi. A successful lumbar intrathecal injection results in adequate biodistribution of the injectable material in the CNS, PNS, and peripheral organs. When correctly applied, this technique is considered as minimally invasive and non‐disruptive and can be used for the lumbar delivery of any solute. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: C57BL/6 adult and P10 mice lumbar intrathecal injection

Basic Protocol 2: Tissue collection and preparation for evaluating Evans blue dye diffusion

Basic Protocol 3: Tissue collection and preparation for immunohistochemistry staining

Basic Protocol 4: Tissue collection and vector genome copy number analysis
Managers, don't neglect your prospective employees to achieve your sustainability development goals
Authors: Sinha Richa , Saini Gordhan K. , Jawahar I. M.
Published: June 2024

Instances of corporate social irresponsibility (CSI) in popular media, coupled with its negative consequences behooves a systematic assessment of the consequences of CSI. This study responds to calls for such research. Specifically, drawing on attribution theory, we investigate the role of CSI on prospective employees' employment intention (EI) and negative word‐of‐mouth (NWOM) propensity and the role of other condemning moral emotions (OCME) in mediating the relationship between CSI and EI and NWOM propensity. In addition, drawing on construal level theory, we investigate if psychological distance moderates the relationship between CSI and OCME, and thereby, impacts the mediation from CSI to EI and NWOM propensity through OCME. Results indicate that CSI decreases EI and enhances NWOM propensity, and these relationships are mediated via OCME. PD enhances the effect of CSI on EI and NWOM propensity through OCME such that lower PD is associated with a lower EI and higher NWOM propensity.
Converting CO2 Into Natural Gas Within the Autoclave: A Kinetic Study on Hydrogenation of Carbonates in Aqueous Solution
Authors: He Zhiwei , Zhang Hongbo
Published: June 2024

Catalytic conversion of carbon dioxide (CO2) into value‐added chemicals is of pivotal importance, well the cost of capturing CO2 from dilute atmosphere is super challenge. One promising strategy is combining the adsorption and transformation at one step, such as applying alkali solution that could selectively reduce carbonate (CO32−) as consequences of CO2 adsorption. Due to complexity of this system, the mechanistic details on controlling the hydrogenation have not been investigated in depth. Herein, Ru/TiO2 catalyst was applied as a probe to elucidate the mechanism of CO32− activation, in which with thermodynamic and kinetic investigations, a compact Langmuir‐Hinshelwood reaction model was established which suggests that the overall rate of CO32− hydrogenation was controlled by a specific C−O bond rupture elementary step within HCOO− and the Ru surface was mainly covered by CO32− or HCOO− at independent conditions. This assumption was further supported by negligible kinetic isotope effects (kH/kD≈1), similarity on reaction barriers of CO32− and HCOO− hydrogenation (ΔH≠hydr,Na2CO3 and ΔH≠hydr,HCOONa) and a non‐variation of entropy (ΔS≠hydr≈0). More interestingly, the alkalinity of the solution is certainly like a two sides in a sword and could facilitate the adsorption of CO2 while hold back catalysis during CO32− hydrogenation.
Advancements in Manganese‐Based Cathode for Sustainable Energy Utilization
Authors: Zhou Ting , Wu Binjing , Li Chengze , Zhang Xinhuan , Li Wenting , Pang Huan
Published: June 2024

Manganese‐based compounds, especially manganese oxides, are one of the most exceptional electrode materials. Specifically, manganese oxides have gained significant interest owing to their unique crystal structures, high theoretical capacity, abundant natural availability and eco‐friendly nature. However, as transition metal semiconductors, manganese oxide possess low electrical conductivity, limited rate capacity, and suboptical cycle stability. Thus, combining manganese oxides with carbon or other metallic materials can significantly improve their electrochemical performance. These composites increase active sites and conductivity, thereby improving electrode reaction kinetics, cycle stability, and lifespan of supercapacitors (SCs) and batteries. This paper reviews the latest applications of Mn‐based cathodes in SCs and advanced batteries. Moreover, the energy storage mechanisms were also proposed. In this review, the development prospects and challenges for advanced energy storage applications of Mn‐based cathodes are summarized.
Eco‐Friendly Mechanochemical Synthesis of Bifunctional Metal Oxide Electrocatalysts for Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: García‐Rodríguez M. , Cazorla‐Amorós D. , Morallón E.
Published: June 2024

The development of green and environmentally friendly synthesis methods of electrocatalysts is a crucial aspect in decarbonizing energy generation. In this study, eco‐friendly mechanochemical synthesis of perovskite metal oxide‐carbon black composites is proposed using different conditions and additives such as KOH. Furthermore, the optimization of ball milling conditions, including time and rotational speed, is studied. The mechanochemical synthesis in solid‐state conditions without additives produces electrocatalysts that exhibit the highest bifunctional electrochemical activity towards both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Moreover, this synthesis demonstrates a lower Environmental Impact Factor (E‐factor), indicating its greener nature, and due to its simplicity, it has a great potential for scalability. The obtained bifunctional electrocatalysts have been tested in a rechargeable zinc‐air battery (ZAB) for 22 h with similar performance compared to the commercial catalyst (Pt/C) at significantly lower cost. These promising findings are attributed to the enhanced interaction between the perovskite metal oxide and carbon material and the improved dispersion of the perovskite metal oxide on the carbon materials.
Fine‐needle aspiration cytology of diffuse type tenosynovial giant cell tumor with malignant trasformation and review of literature
Authors: Shafi Saba , MacDonald William , Satturwar Swati
Published: June 2024

Tenosynovial giant cell tumors (TGCTs) arise from the synovium of joint, bursa, and tendon sheath. Diffuse type often affects large joints, has higher recurrence rates, metastases, and malignant transformation potential compared to the localized type. The cytopathology of TGCT, a fibrohistiocytic neoplasm distinct from other giant cell–rich soft tissue tumors, is rarely reported. Here we describe cytomorphology of a case of TGCT that was initially diagnosed on fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) consisting of a mixture of singly scattered polygonal or spindle mononuclear cells with hemosiderin laden macrophages, inflammatory cells, and a population of multinucleated osteoclast‐like giant cells. Persistent symptoms and repeat excision were consistent with high‐grade malignant transformation of the TGCT. Atypical cytologic features in a recurrent, infiltrative, or a metastatic lesion should raise suspicion for malignancy.
Neck Aging and Rejuvenation: A Balanced Approach to Assessment and Treatment
Authors: Roberts Wendy E. , Cheng Tsing
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The neck is typically the earliest and most visible site of aging‐related esthetic changes; it is an area about which patients frequently express esthetic concerns and seek approaches to rejuvenation. This narrative review examines the current understanding of age‐related structural and cellular changes in the neck and skin, treatment approaches to neck rejuvenation, specifically noninvasive and minimally invasive approaches including skincare, and key patient factors to consider.

Methods

A literature search of relevant publications was performed. Experience‐based recommendations for clinical assessment and treatment approach are provided to complement the current literature.

Results

Neck aging results from a combination of intrinsic factors, such as genetic background, and extrinsic factors, primarily ultraviolet light exposure. Positive treatment outcomes begin with thorough patient assessment, including neck aging status, patient‐specific intrinsic and extrinsic factors, and evaluation of skin type, which may help predict positive (e.g., skin tightening) and negative (e.g., dyspigmentation) dermal responses to specific procedures. In addition to skincare, a range of noninvasive, directed‐energy techniques (e.g., chromophore‐based lasers, ablative lasers, intense pulsed light, microfocused ultrasound, cryolipolysis, laser‐assisted lipolysis, and radiofrequency irradiation) and minimally invasive techniques (e.g., neurotoxins, microneedling, and fillers) are currently used for neck rejuvenation. A comprehensive approach to assessment and treatment contributes toward improved patient outcomes.

Conclusions

The neck aging process develops over time, and a prejuvenation strategy, including effective skincare, should be considered. The development of comprehensive noninvasive and minimally invasive techniques geared toward the neck and face as a single entity should provide better outcomes and fulfillment of patient esthetic goals for this critical area.
Stochastic dynamics of phycocyanin in years of contrasting phosphorus load
Authors: Carpenter Stephen R. , Brock William A.
Published: June 2024

Resilience, measured by the distribution of passage times between alternate states, indicates persistence of a state in stochastic dynamic systems such as blooms of cyanobacteria in lakes. We used high‐frequency datasets to compare the resilience of low and high states of phycocyanin, a pigment indicator of cyanobacteria, in Lake Mendota, Wisconsin, USA, for three growing seasons that ranged sevenfold in external phosphorus (P) load. Each year we observed 139–265 passage times across the unstable threshold that separated the low‐ from high‐phycocyanin states. Each sample of passage times is highly skewed with low median, larger mean, much larger SD, and wide tails extending to long lifetimes of a state. About 25% of events, whether low or high phycocyanin, lasted a day or more. Among these 3 years of contrasting external P load, there were no discernible differences in the resilience of either ecosystem state. We attribute this lack of contrast to the sustained recycling of P from sediments and the high stochasticity of phycocyanin in this lake.
Effect of Solvate Ionic Liquids in the Enantioselective (S)‐Proline‐Catalyzed Mechanochemical Robinson Annulation
Authors: Gamboa‐Velázquez Gonzalo , Arroyo‐Córdoba Ismael J. , Ávila‐Ortiz C. Gabriela , Naranjo‐Castañeda Carlos , Juaristi Eusebio
Published: June 2024

Herein we report our observations from the study of the classical Robinson annulation reaction under solvent‐free mechanochemical activation by means of high‐speed ball milling. In particular, the enantioselective synthesis of the Wieland‐Miescher ketone was used as model reaction. (S)‐Proline was employed as chiral organocatalyst, either alone or in the presence of additives in order to determine their influence on the reaction's speed and stereoselectivity. Most interesting, among the additives that were examined, four solvate ionic liquids (SIL) afforded the desired product with significantly improved enantioselectivity relative to the mechanochemically‐activated reaction catalyzed by (S)‐proline alone. Furthermore, the required reaction time was reduced from 3 days to 90 min. The potential of other proline‐type organocatalysts was explored in this ball‐milling process. Initial attempts to increase the scope of the reaction to afford related annulation products were unsuccessful. HPLC‐MS experiments were carried out in order to detect some of the species that intervene in the mechanism of the (S)‐proline‐catalyzed Robinson cyclization reaction involving 2‐methyl‐1,3‐cyclohexanedione and methyl vinyl ketone.
Study on Waste Heat Recovery of Fuel‐Cell Thermal Management System Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: He Liange , Xin Yajie , Zhang Yan , Li Pengpai , Yang Yuanyin
Published: June 2024

Fuel cells are very sensitive to temperature. To enhance the temperature stability of fuel cells, in this article, a reinforcement learning control method is proposed to regulate the speed of the cooling water pump, and a waste heat recovery structure is designed based on this. First, the model's accuracy is validated by comparing it with experimental data. Subsequently, in the simulation results, it is shown that reinforcement learning control improves average temperature regulation capability by 5.6% compared to proportional‐integral‐derivative (PID) control. Following the incorporation of waste heat recovery, the energy consumption of the pump is reduced by 0.04 kWh in comparison to PID control. Similarly, for the air‐conditioning system, the energy consumption of the compressor is reduced by 0.63 kWh. For the same driving distance, hydrogen consumption decreases by 80 g. Additionally, the coefficient of performance increases by 1.5% in the waste heat recovery mode.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of Rare Earth‐Doped Amorphous LiFePO4 Cathodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shinde Ravindra S. , Jaiswal Rohan S. , Kadam Sukhdev L. , Katta Vamsi Krishna
Published: June 2024

Neodymium‐doped amorphous LiFePO4/C cathodes formulated as LiFe1−xNdxPO4 (where x = 0, 0.02, 0.05, 0.08, labeled as LF1−xNxP) are synthesized by a solid‐station reaction. Herein, the influence of Nd doping on the amorphous structure, morphology, and electrochemical performance of LiFePO4/C is examined. The thermal and phase stability (ΔT) is analyzed using differential thermal analysis and proves thermal stability is enhanced by doping rare‐earth elements (Nd). The amorphous olivine LiFePO4 phase is identified from X‐ray diffraction peaks and it is demonstrated that neodymium carbon modification does not affect the structure of the sample but improves its kinetics in terms of discharge capacity and rate capability. The LF0.95N0.05P cathode shows the highest initial charge capacity (150 mAh g−1) and discharge capacity (147 mAh g−1) recorded at 0.1 C rate, the cyclic stability continues, and 91.33% of Coulombic efficiency even up to 500 cycles is achieved. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy provides clearly that neodymium substituting reduces the charge transfer impedance and improves the lithium‐ion diffusion through the structure stability and the electrochemical performances of LiFePO4/C are highly improved by Nd doping.
Better integrating battery and fuel cells in electric vehicles
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: June 2024

This paper presents an innovative approach to enhancing the range of battery electric vehicles (BEVs) through the integration of a hydrogen fuel cell range extender. By combining the high energy efficiency of BEVs with the rapid refueling capability and extended range of hydrogen fuel cells, this hybrid system addresses the limitations of current electric vehicles in scenarios demanding longer driving ranges or quicker refueling options. Our study encompasses both experimental and theoretical analyses, leading to the proposal of a BEV configuration that includes a smaller battery complemented by a fuel cell range extender. The conventional fuel cell electric vehicle (FCV) examined relies exclusively on hydrogen fuel and features a minimal battery without plug‐in functionality, resulting in suboptimal energy economy. In contrast, our proposed BEV with a fuel cell range extender employs a larger battery capacity of 12 to 16 kWh alongside a downsized fuel cell stack and reduced hydrogen tank size. This configuration significantly improves energy recovery during braking and extends electric operation, thereby doubling the vehicle's energy economy. The proposed system not only enhances energy efficiency but also reduces the weight and volume of the overall energy storage system. Preliminary estimates suggest that the miles‐per‐gallon equivalent (MPGe) of this hybrid solution could exceed 140 over the US EPA certification cycle, outperforming existing PHEVs, BEVs, and FCVs.
Investigation of partial charging of enhanced ice storage systems
Authors: Laouer Abdelghani , Bellahcene Lahcene , Atia Aissa , Benhouia Amine Toufik , Teggar Mohamed
Published: June 2024

Partial storage strategy can save energy and reduce emissions. In this study, analysis of the partial melting process of ice inserted with nanoparticles inside a square enclosure is investigated for thermal energy storage. The lattice Boltzmann method is for melting and heat transfer in the storage unit. The validation demonstrates strong concurrence between the current findings and the experimental data documented in the literature. The analysis is performed for various Rayleigh numbers, nanoparticle volume fractions, and their effect on melting time and energy storage. Two types of nanoparticles are tested that is, copper and alumina. The outcomes indicate that the Rayleigh number and volume fraction of nanoparticles have a significant impact on the phase change process. The nanoparticles addition leads to homogenous and hence expedited melting process including the final stage of the ice melting process which is very slow without nanoparticles. Furthermore, copper nanoparticles are slightly more effective than alumina. Moreover, using 6% copper nanoparticles can reduce the melting time by up to 12.4%.
Estimating Reliability for Tests With One Constructed‐Response Item in a Section
Authors: Qu Yanxuan , Sinharay Sandip
Published: June 2024

The goal of this paper is to find better ways to estimate the internal consistency reliability of scores on tests with a specific type of design that are often encountered in practice: tests with constructed‐response items clustered into sections that are not parallel or tau‐equivalent, and one of the sections has only one item. To estimate the reliability of scores on this kind of test, we propose a two‐step approach (denoted as CA_STR) that first estimates the reliability of scores on the section with a single item using the correction for attenuation method and then estimates the reliability of scores on the whole test using the stratified coefficient alpha. We compared the CA_STR method with three other reliability estimation approaches under various conditions using both real and simulated data. We found that overall, the CA_STR method performed the best and it was easy to implement.
Machine learning supported ground beef freshness monitoring based on near‐infrared and paper chromogenic array
Authors: Feng Yihang , Wang Yi , Beykal Burcu , Xiao Zhenlei , Luo Yangchao
Published: June 2024

Maintaining freshness and quality is crucial in the meat industry, as lipid oxidation can lead to undesirable odors, flavors, and potential health risks. Traditional methods for assessing meat freshness often involve time‐consuming and destructive techniques, highlighting the need for rapid, noninvasive approaches. Recent advancements in spectroscopic and chromogenic sensor array technologies have opened up new avenues for monitoring meat quality parameters, offering the potential for real‐time, accurate, and cost‐effective solutions. As thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) value is a classic indicator of meat lipid oxidation, this study investigated the data fusion of near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIR) and paper chromogenic array (PCA) for monitoring ground beef TBARS. A standardized PCA was fabricated by photolithography with nine chemoresponsive dyes. Changes in ground beef volatile organic compounds during storage were captured in the shifts of PCA color patterns. Nippy, an open‐source Python module, was used for automated NIR spectra preprocessing. The optimal preprocessing pipeline was found by 10‐fold cross‐validation in machine learning model development. Among optimized models, partial least square regression showed the best performance in coefficient of determination (R2) of .9477, root mean squared error of prediction of 0.0545 mg malondialdehyde/kg meat, and residual prediction deviation of 4.3717. The promising result of this study indicated the potential for NIR and PCA combinations to monitor TBARS values for ground beef freshness assessment.
Recent progress in covalent organic frameworks for flexible electronic devices
Authors: Wu Jinghang , Zhang Shiwei , Gu Qianfeng , Zhang Qichun
Published: June 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are porous materials with good crystallinity, highly ordered stacking, tunable channels, and diverse functional groups that have been demonstrated to show great potential applications in flexible electronic devices, including flexible energy storage devices (batteries and supercapacitors), memristors and sensors. Although great research progress on the usage of COFs as active elements in flexible electronics has been witnessed, the summary in this direction is rare. Thus, it is the right time to write a review on COFs‐based flexible electronics. In this review, we will first discuss the different synthesis strategies to prepare COF materials. Then, the applications of COFs in flexible electronic devices are summarized. Finally, the future performance improvement and development directions of COFs in the field of flexible electronic devices are briefly outlined. This review could provide basic concepts and some guidelines to stimulate novel applications of COFs in diverse flexible electronic devices.
The depositional redox conditions of Fe‐speciation reference materials (BHW and WHIT) using redox‐sensitive trace metal enrichment
Authors: Khan Faizan Ahmad , GP Gurumurthy , Muguli Tripti , Alam Mahboob , Sharma Anupam
Published: June 2024

Iron speciation has emerged as a robust proxy for discerning oceanic redox conditions; nonetheless, it is subject to certain limitations. Specifically, the applicability of the degree of pyritization is contingent upon the presence of unequivocal evidence of an anoxic water column and its discriminatory capacity is limited to distinguish between ferruginous (anoxic) and euxinic conditions. This study highlights that through the integration of redox‐sensitive trace metal enrichment data with Fe‐speciation data, the depositional redox conditions for marine sediments can be established with greater certainty. Recently, a set of dedicated geological reference materials (BHW and WHIT) have been developed for validating the Fe‐speciation analytical results for redox reconstruction studies; however, to the best of our knowledge, these reference materials are not characterized for trace and rare earth elements (REEs). In this connection, the BHW (oxic) and WHIT (anoxic) reference materials are measured for major, trace and REEs. After careful statistical considerations for these reference standards, a complete set of trace and REEs is reported. Furthermore, considering BHW and WHIT as oxic and anoxic end‐members, respectively, the utility of trace metal enrichment and Fe‐speciation data in combination has been discussed. The trace and REE concentrations of BHW and WHIT reported in this study will enhance their applicability as a reference material to understand ocean chemistry and the oxidation state of the ancient oceans.
Black American adolescent's efficacy in the face of discrimination
Authors: Glover Briah A. , Witherspoon Dawn P.
Published: June 2024

The pervasiveness of racism in the U.S. and its negative relations with key development outcomes has led researchers to uncover mediators, of which this article argues efficacy should be considered. Self‐efficacy, one's belief in their capability to accomplish a task or goal, can be measured in multiple domains of functioning and contexts to predict behaviour. The current study examines possible specificity in the relation between discrimination (general discrimination and school discrimination) and efficacy (academic efficacy and efficacy to combat discrimination), whether resilience moderates these associations, and if these processes differ by gender. A total of 879 Black youth (47% female; mean age = 12, SD = 0.58) were included in the analyses. Findings suggest that school discrimination experiences are differentially associated with domains of efficacy. Resilience was associated with increased efficacy, but no significant moderation effects were found.
Empowering STEM students: A university‐wide mentorship program fostering retention and belonging
Authors: Ravishankar Sumedha , Spencer‐Drakes Tara C. J. , Fernandes Ivy H. , Hayes Megan I. , Coopwood Shelby , Spencer Ilya , Neal Sonya E.
Published: June 2024

In the face of a challenging climate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) higher education that is resistant to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion efforts aimed to increase and retain students from historically excluded groups (HEGs), there is a critical need for a support structure to ensure students from HEGs continue to be recruited retained. The Biology Undergraduate and Master's Mentorship Program (BUMMP) embodies this commitment to fostering scientific identity, efficacy, and a sense of belonging for first‐generation and historically underserved undergraduate and master's students at UC San Diego. The mission of BUMMP is to cultivate a sense of belonging, instill confidence, and nurture a strong scientific identity amongst all its participants. At its core, the three pillars of BUMMP are (1) mentorship, (2) professional development, and (3) research. Quality mentorship is provided where students receive personal guidance from faculty, graduate students, postdocs, and industry leaders in navigating their career pathways. Complementing mentorship, BUMMP provides paid research opportunities and prioritizes professional development by offering workshops designed to enhance students' professional skills. These three pillars form the backbone of BUMMP, empowering students from all backgrounds and ensuring their retention and persistence in STEM. So far, we've served over 1350 mentees, collaborated with 809 mentors, and had over 180 mentees actively engaged in BUMMP‐sponsored research activities. The primary focus of this paper is to provide a programmatic guideline for the three pillars of BUMMP: mentorship, professional development, and research. This will offer a blueprint for other institutions to establish similar mentorship programs. Additionally, the paper highlights the impact of the BUMMP program and surveyed mentees who have participated in the mentorship and research component of BUMMP. We showed that mentorship and research experience enhance students' sense of belonging, science identity, and science efficacy, which are key predictors of retention and persistence in pursuing a STEM career. Overall, BUMMP's expansive efforts have made a tremendous impact at UC San Diego and will continue to foster a community of future leaders who will be prepared to make meaningful contributions to the scientific community and beyond.
Factors associated with PrEP‐era HIV seroconversion in a 4‐year U.S. national cohort of n = 6059 sexual and gender minority individuals who have sex with men, 2017−2022
Authors: Grov Christian , Guo Yan , Westmoreland Drew A. , D'Angelo Alexa B. , Mirzayi Chloe , Dearolf Michelle , Carneiro Pedro , Ray Meredith , Pantalone David , Carrico Adam W. , Patel Viraj V. , Golub Sarit A. , Hirshfield Sabina , Hoover Donald R. , Nash Denis
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Community‐based cohort studies of HIV seroconversion can identify important avenues for enhancing HIV prevention efforts in the era of pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Within individuals, one can assess exposure and outcome variables repeatedly and with increased certainty regarding temporal ordering. This cohort study examined the association of several risk factors with subsequent HIV seroconversion.

Methods

We report data from a 4‐year study (2017−2022) of 6059 HIV seronegative sexual and gender minority individuals who have sex with men who had indications for‐, but were not using‐, PrEP at enrolment. Participants completed repeat exposure assessments and self‐collection of biospecimens for HIV testing. We examined the roles of race and ethnicity, socio‐economic status, methamphetamine use and PrEP uptake over the course of follow‐up in relation to HIV seroconversion.

Results

Over 4 years, 303 of the participants seroconverted across 18,421 person‐years (incidence rate = 1.64 [95% CI: 1.59−1.70] per 100 person‐years). In multivariable discrete‐time survival analysis, factors independently associated with elevated HIV seroconversion risk included being Black/African American (adjusted risk ratio [aRR]: 2.44, 1.79−3.28), Hispanic/Latinx (1.53, 1.19−1.96), housing instability (1.58, 1.22−2.05) and past year methamphetamine use (3.82, 2.74−5.33). Conversely, time since study enrolment (24 vs. 12 months, 0.67, 0.51−0.87; 36 months, 0.60, 0.45−0.80; 48 months, 0.48, 0.35−0.66) and higher education (master's degree or higher vs. less than or equal to high school, 0.36, 0.17−0.66) were associated with reduced seroconversion risk. Compared to non‐PrEP users in the past 2 years without a current clinical indication, those who started PrEP but then discontinued had higher seroconversion risk, irrespective of clinical indication (3.23, 1.74−6.46) or lack thereof (4.30, 1.85−9.88). However, those who initiated PrEP in the past year (0.14, 0.04−0.39) or persistently used PrEP in the past 2 years (0.33, 0.14−0.74) had a lower risk of seroconversion. Of all HIV seroconversions observed during follow‐up assessments (12, 24, 36 and 48 months), methamphetamine was reported in the 12 months prior 128 (42.2%) times (overall).

Conclusions

Interventions that acknowledge race and ethnicity, economic variables such as education and housing instability, and methamphetamine use are critically needed. Not only are interventions to engage individuals in PrEP care needed, but those that retain them, and re‐engage those who may fall out of care are essential, given the exceptionally high risk of seroconversion in these groups.
The relationship of early therapeutic alliance, baseline client symptom severity, and client race to duration in therapy and post client symptom severity
Authors: Evans Tyler S. , Ridley Charles , Baek Eunkyeng , Elliott Timothy , Elbert Chanda
Published: June 2024

Extending the study of Shaw et al., this study aimed to determine whether early therapeutic alliance, baseline client symptom severity, and client race predicted treatment duration and post client symptom severity. Participants (N = 75) were clients at a community mental health clinic. Baseline client symptom severity, but not early therapeutic alliance, predicted post client symptom severity; client race predicted treatment duration. Collectively, early therapeutic alliance, baseline client symptom severity, and client race predicted post client symptom severity.
Understanding regulating effects of protein–anionic octenyl succinic anhydride‐modified starch interactions on the structural, rheological, digestibility and release properties of starch
Authors: Li Yihui , Li Runya , Chen Sitong , Wang Xiaoyan , Jiang Yuling , Fang Yong , Lin Qinlu , Ding Yongbo
Published: June 2024

Background

Proteins and anionic octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA)‐modified starch (OSA‐starch) are common ingredients in food systems. The interactions between OSA‐starch and protein are found to alter the structural and functional properties of the protein–OSA‐starch complexes. In this regard, the close understanding of the relationship among the molecular interactions between whey protein isolate (WPI) and OSA–high amylose corn starch (HAS), structure changes and rheological, digestibility and release properties of WPI‐OSA‐HAS was investigated.

Results

The molecular interactions of WPI–OSA–HAS were significant for increasing the surface rough, solubility, storage modulus and loss modulus, but decreasing the R1047/1022 values. For the nutritional evaluation, the anti‐digestibility of WPI–OSA–HAS was enhanced with increased resistant starch + slowly digestible starch contents and decreased equilibrium hydrolysis percentage and kinetic constant. During the digestion, part of the starch granule, OSA groups and WPI were lost, but the loss was lower than for OSA–HAS. Furthermore, the results of curcumin‐loaded WPI–OSA–HAS in simulated gastrointestinal fluids demonstrated that curcumin could be gradually released to simulate colonic fluid. Notably, the interaction between WPI and OSA–HAS depended on the WPI concentration with the stronger molecular interactions obtained at 35% concentration.

Conclusion

These results provided important information concerning how to adjust the rheological, anti‐digestibility and release properties of WPI–OSA–HAS through altering the electrostatic interactions and hydrophobic interactions of WPI–OSA–HAS. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Real‐time PCR‐based quantitative microbiome profiling elucidates the microbial dynamic succession in backslopping fermentation of Taiwanese pickled cabbage
Authors: Hu You‐Yun , Lo I‐Hsuan , Hsiao Jhih‐Ting , Sheu Fuu
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Microbiota succession determines the flavor and quality of fermented foods. Quantitative PCR‐based quantitative microbiome profiling (QMP) has been applied broadly for microbial analysis from absolute abundance perspectives, transforming microbiota ratios into counts by normalizing 16S ribosomal RNA (16S rRNA) gene sequencing data with gene copies quantified by quantitative PCR. However, the application of QMP in fermented foods is still limited.

RESULTS

QMP elucidated microbial succession of Taiwanese pickled cabbage. In the spontaneous first‐round fermentation (FR), the 16S rRNA gene copies of total bacteria increased from 6.1 to 10 log copies mL−1. The dominant lactic acid bacteria genera were successively Lactococcus, Leuconostoc and Lactiplantibacillus. Despite the decrease in the proportion of Lactococcus during the succession, the absolute abundance of Lactococcus still increased. In the backslopping second‐round fermentation (SR), the total bacteria 16S rRNA gene copies increased from 7.6 to 9.9 log copies mL−1. The addition of backslopping starter and vinegar rapidly led to a homogenous microbial community dominated by Lactiplantibacillus. The proportion of Lactiplantibacillus remained consistently around 90% during SR, whereas its absolute abundance exhibited a continuous increase. In SR without vinegar, Leuconostoc consistently dominated the fermentation.

CONCLUSION

The present study highlights that compositional analysis would misinterpret microbial dynamics, whereas QMP reflected the real succession profiles and unveiled the essential role of vinegar in promoting Lactiplantibacillus dominance in backslopping fermentation of Taiwanese pickled cabbage. Quantitative microbiome profiling (QMP) was found to be a more promising approach for the detailed observation of microbiome succession in food fermentation compared to compositional analysis. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Ten‐Year Efficacy of Transoral Surgery for Squamous Carcinoma of the Lateral Oropharynx
Authors: Laccourreye Ollivier , Garcia Dominique , Rahman Arifeen , Holsinger F. Christopher
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To document the 10‐year results of transoral mandibular preservation surgery for patients with T1‐2 squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) arising from the lateral oropharynx.

Methods

This was a retrospective 30‐year review using STROBE guidelines at an academic, tertiary referral center. A total of 294 patients with T1‐2 SCC of the lateral oropharynx were reviewed. Only 19% of patients were never‐smokers, suggesting a predominantly HPV‐negative population. All patients had transoral mandibular preservation surgery. Follow‐up therapy included neck dissection (76.5%), induction chemotherapy (57.8%), and postoperative radiation therapy (31.6%) Local control, survival, and functional endpoints, as well as the consequences of local recurrence, were analyzed.

Results

The 10‐year local disease control was 88.3%. Local recurrence was salvaged in 50% of cases, resulting in an overall 94.5% local control rate. The overall 10‐year survival was 50%. Mortality was related to metachronous second primary cancer (MSPC) (29.2%), medical comorbidities (25.7%), uncontrolled local recurrence (10%), and complications following transoral resection (4.2%). In multivariate analysis, the development of an MSPC significantly increased (p < 0.005) the risk of death. Overall, 95.2% of patients achieved mandibular preservation. However, gastrostomy and tracheostomy dependence occurred in 1% and 0.3% of cases, respectively.

Conclusions

For a patient population with a significant percentage of tobacco‐associated oropharyngeal cancer (OPC), transoral surgery was associated with long‐term minimal postoperative complications and a high rate of local control. MSPC was the main cause of death during the first 10 postoperative years. Such long‐term figures support transoral surgery as an effective first‐line treatment for early‐stage predominantly tobacco‐related OPC.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4564–4572, 2024
Effects of fertilizer types and application levels on phosphorus availability of saline soils and crops: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Liu Tong , Dong Xinliang , Guo Kai , Wang Jintao , Liu Xiaojing , Sun Hongyong
Published: June 2024

Phosphorus deficiency limits agricultural production in saline soils. Phosphorus fertilizer (P fertilizer) affects soil and crop phosphorus availability, water eutrophication control, and rock phosphate ore resource protection. To clarify the effect of varying types and amounts of fertilizers on the phosphorus availability enhancement at different degrees of saline soil and provide theoretical basis for rational fertilization at high salt soil, a meta‐analysis of 257 datasets from 24 studies was conducted. All studies were from Asia and focused on the effects of P fertilizer on the phosphorus availability in saline soils. P fertilizer application increased soil available phosphorus (AP) and total phosphorus (TP) contents by 49.24% and 56.19% (pQ < 0.05). Further sub‐group analysis revealed that the P fertilizer types, application levels, soil salinity, soil alkalinity, and crop species affected the response variables (AP, TP, above‐ground P content, and yield), as well as derived variables such as the proportion of AP to TP content (AP/TP) and the phosphorus fertilizer utilization efficiency. Intermediate‐level pure organic fertilizer enhanced AP content by 55.66%, while high‐level pure organic fertilizer enhanced AP/TP. Intermediate‐level pure organic fertilizer showed the best effects on above‐ground P content and phosphorus fertilizer utilization efficiency. Mineral plus organic fertilizer at this level achieved the highest yield increase (122.34%). Soil phosphorus availability improved more in mild salinity and pH <8.5 soils. Therefore, integrating the overall responses, applying mineral plus organic fertilizer or pure organic fertilizer at an intermediate level (20–60 kg·ha−1·year−1) for 1–2 years could enhance soil AP content, benefit crop growth, and agricultural productivity in saline soils while managing input costs effectively.