bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Therapeutic Efficacy of Ethanolic Extract of Benincasa hispida in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Toha Ikram Wahid , Promi Shafia Islam , Barai Sampa , Mamun Abdullah Al , Sagir Shabira , Tasnim Sadia , Sony Ambia khatun , Rasna Israt Jahan
Published: January 2025

Since the dawn of civilization, humans have used herbal medicine to treat medical ailments. This study seeks to evaluate the efficacy of Benincasa hispida as an anti-diabetic agent and its impact on lipid profiles. We assessed the efficacy of the anti-diabetes medication using the alloxan-induced diabetic model. Only the 900 mg/kg dosage exhibited statistically significant antidiabetic effects (p < 0.05) when compared to the 300 and 600 mg/kg dosages. Notwithstanding a slight reduction in these parameters, no groups demonstrated statistically significant results regarding HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol. The triglyceride value of 97.70 ± 7.50* yielded statistically significant results (p < 0.05). Conversely, SGPT and SGOT exhibited no statistically significant effects at dosages of 300, 600, or 900 mg/kg. Group 5 exhibited statistically significant results (p < 0.05) in the kidney function test in case of urea, with a value of 93.24 ± 9.23* after the administration of an extract at a dose of 600 mg/kg. No statistically significant results were seen in any groups concerning creatinine levels.
Evaluation of the Microbiological Quality of Bathing Waters in the Mamou Region, Republic of Guinea
Authors: DIALLO Souleymane , BAH Boubacar Sidy Sily , DIALLO Mohamed , BALAMOU Ouo-Ouo
Published: January 2025

The bacteriological quality of bathing water is a major public health issue. The aim of this study is to assess the correlation between the bacteriological quality of bathing water and the risk of disease outbreaks. The study was prospective in nature, and ran from June to December 2022. Fifty-nine (59) samples were taken from water sources used for bathing. The membrane filtration method and the direct inoculation method were used.   In Mamou, the results showed that EI and E. coli exceeded WHO threshold values in rivers and streams, with 2/4 (20%) and 8/11 (80%) respectively. Whereas in Pita, Enterococci had exceeded these standards in 25% of backwater and 75% of streams, and E. coli in 14.28 and 85.71% of rivers and streams respectively. E. coli (streams: 66.66% and backwater: 33.33%) and E. coli (streams: 83.33% and backwater: 16.66%) values exceeded WHO thresholds in Dalaba. Many sites had bacterial loads above WHO thresholds. This would be an important element to say that these water sources constitute a real public health issue.
Formulation of Foxtail Millet Probiotic Powder Enriched with High Protein and Fibre
Authors: Santhosh Aiswarya Velekat , Sweety  , B Ramachandra
Published: January 2025

Aims: The study aimed to formulate a foxtail millet probiotic powder enriched with high protein and fibre.
Study Design: This was an experimental, laboratory-based study.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Department of Dairy Microbiology, Dairy Science College, Hebbal, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India, between January 2024 and October 2024.
Methodology: Foxtail millet was sterilized by autoclaving at 121°C for 15 minutes, while chia seeds and whey protein concentrate (WPC) were sterilized via autoclaving and UV treatment, respectively. Microbiological analysis for contaminants, including aerobic spores, yeasts, and molds, was performed using the pour plate method. The incorporation levels of probiotic cultures into the millet flour were optimized based on their viability. The resulting millet-probiotic powder was enriched with protein (from WPC) and fibre (from chia flour) to meet the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for these nutrients using trial and error method. The protein and fibre contents were quantified using the micro Kjeldahl method and crude fibre estimation, respectively. Statistical analyses were conducted using ANOVA, with a critical difference (CD) at a 5% significance level employed to assess the significance of differences between treatments.
Results: Sterilization methods significantly reduced microbial counts in foxtail millet flour, chia flour, and whey protein concentrate. Autoclaving at 121°C for 15 minutes completely sterilized millet and chia flours, while UV-C treatment effectively sterilized WPC, reducing microbial contamination to undetectable levels. The mixed culture of Lactobacillus acidophilus LA-5, Bifidobacterium bifidum BB-12, and Streptococcus thermophilus demonstrated the highest viable counts across various inoculation levels. A 5% inoculation rate was selected for further studies due to its optimal balance of viability and resource efficiency. Whey protein concentrate (WPC) with 80.04% protein content and chia flour with 24.6% fibre were incorporated into the probiotic millet dry mix, enhancing both protein and fibre content to meet Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) for adults. A formulation of 74.5g foxtail millet, 68g chia flour, and 7.5g WPC per 150g was optimized, yielding 27.05g of protein (50.09% of the RDA) and 20.39g of fibre (50.99% of the RDA), resulting in a nutritionally dense and functional product.
Conclusion: The sterilization methods successfully reduced microbial contamination in foxtail millet flour, chia flour, and whey protein concentrate, ensuring a safe base for probiotic inclusion. The optimized formulation, combining foxtail millet, chia flour, and whey protein concentrate, resulted in a nutritionally dense dry mix, providing 50.09% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance for protein and 50.99% for fibre. This approach demonstrates the potential for developing a functional product that enhances both nutritional value and probiotic viability.
Enhancing Vinyl Chloride Product Yield By Optimizing Operating Conditions In Plug Flow Reactor With Al2O3 Catalyst
Authors: Fauziyah Almas , Ratnawati Ida , Shafura M. Regina Lintang , Anggraini Widia Ayu
Published: January 2025

Vinyl chloride (VC) is a colorless stable gas produced through a complex process with many interactions in reaction and separation. This study aims to improve mass and energy efficiency in vinyl chloride production through process simulation with HYSYS V.11. The process was modified using a plugged flow reactor (PFR) with an Al2O3 catalyst and a simplified distillation column. The method involves recycling the liquid product from the distillation column back to the mixing unit as a feed. The results show that energy efficiency improves with the reduction of the reactor's heat flow requirement from 1.009×107 kJ/h, and to 4.689×106 kJ/h, and distillation of the 2.82×106 kJ/h to 1.368×106 kJ/h. Mass efficiency also increased, with vinyl chloride yields rising by 118%, from 2572 kg/h to 3045 kg/h. In conclusion, these process modifications have succeeded in reducing energy consumption and increasing production significantly, making the process more efficient and energy friendly. Further research is suggested to optimize the use of waste heat. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Exposure to Arsenic and Subclinical Cardiovascular Disease in 9- to 11-Year-Old Children, Syracuse, New York
Authors: Gump Brooks B. , Heffernan Kevin , Brann Lynn S. , Hill Dustin T. , Labrie-Cleary Charlotte , Jandev Vikrant , MacKenzie James A. , Atallah-Yunes Nader H. , Parsons Patrick J. , Palmer Christopher D. , Roberts Austin A. , Bendinskas Kestutis
Published: June 2023

Importance

Studies in adults have demonstrated associations between arsenic exposure and clinical and subclinical cardiovascular disease (CVD). No studies to date have considered potential associations in children.

Objective

To examine the association between total urinary arsenic levels in children and subclinical indicators of CVD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study considered 245 children, a subset from the Environmental Exposures and Child Health Outcomes (EECHO) cohort. Children from the Syracuse, New York, metropolitan area were recruited from August 1, 2013, until November 30, 2017, with enrollment throughout the year. Statistical analysis was performed from January 1, 2022, to February 28, 2023.

Exposures

Total urinary arsenic was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Creatinine concentration was used to adjust for urinary dilution. In addition, potential exposure routes (eg, diet) were measured.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Three indicators of subclinical CVD were assessed: carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity, carotid intima media thickness, and echocardiographic measures of cardiac remodeling.

Results

The study sample included 245 children aged 9 to 11 years (mean [SD] age, 10.52 [0.93] years; 133 [54.3%] female). The geometric mean of the creatinine-adjusted total arsenic level in the population was 7.76 μg/g creatinine. After adjustment for covariates, elevated total arsenic levels were associated with significantly greater carotid intima media thickness (β = 0.21; 95% CI, 0.08-0.33; P = .001). In addition, echocardiography revealed that elevated total arsenic was significantly higher for children with concentric hypertrophy (indicated by greater left ventricular mass and greater relative wall thickness; geometric mean, 16.77 μg/g creatinine; 95% CI, 9.87-28.79 μg/g) relative to the reference group (geometric mean, 7.39 μg/g creatinine; 95% CI, 6.36-8.58 μg/g). With respect to exposure source, significant geographic clustering of total arsenic was found in 1 urban area of Syracuse, New York.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest a significant association between arsenic exposure and subclinical CVD in children. Elevated total arsenic levels were found in an area of Syracuse with known elevations of toxic metals from industrial waste, suggesting historical pollution as a possible source. Given the novelty and potential importance of this association, further research is needed to confirm our findings. Any potential effect of urinary arsenic exposure in childhood on actual clinical CVD outcomes in adulthood remains to be determined.
Peptide‐Enabled Thrombus‐Targeting Nanoparticles for Highly Effective Targeted CT Imaging and Eradication of Thrombi
Authors: Lu Leihao , Bao Qing , Miao Yao , Cheng Qichao , Chen Yuyin , Yang Shuxu , Mao Chuanbin , Yang Mingying
Published: June 2023

Thrombotic disease poses a significant threat to human health as it blocks blood vessels and leads to severe symptoms. Effective treatment requires targeted therapy and precise localization of the thrombus, but traditional drugs are limited in their targeting ability and ability to locate the thrombus. To overcome these issues, a nanoparticle capable of both thrombus targeting and computed tomography (CT) imaging is developed. Phage display technology is used to screen for the thrombus‐targeting peptide termed GK, which is then linked to the surface of macroporous silica (Mp‐SiO2) with a Bi core to create Mp‐Bi@SiO2‐GK. The large pores of Mp‐Bi@SiO2‐GK enable the transport of the drug Urokinase (UK), while the Bi core provides the capabilities of CT imaging and photothermal therapy. The Mp‐Bi@SiO2‐GK nanoparticles precisely target thrombi in mouse carotid arteries and locate them via CT imaging. Furthermore, the combination of Bi‐enabled photothermal therapy and UK‐induced chemotherapy enhance the thrombolysis efficiency. Treatment with Mp‐Bi@SiO2‐GK nanoparticles do not harm tissues/organs or affect liver/kidney metabolism. These results show that Mp‐Bi@SiO2‐GK exhibits precise thrombus targeting and efficient imaging/treatment capability, making it a promising tool for the diagnosis and treatment of thrombosis.
Overcoming Charge Confinement in Perovskite Nanocrystal Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Wenqiang , Jo Seung‐Hyeon , Tang Yipeng , Park Jumi , Ji Su Geun , Cho Seong Ho , Hong Yongseok , Kim Dong‐Hyeok , Park Jinwoo , Yoon Eojin , Zhou Huanyu , Woo Seung‐Je , Kim Hyeran , Yun Hyung Joong , Lee Yun Seog , Kim Jin Young , Hu Bin , Lee Tae‐Woo
Published: June 2023

The small nanoparticle size and long‐chain ligands in colloidal metal halide perovskite quantum dots (PeQDs) cause charge confinement, which impedes exciton dissociation and carrier extraction in PeQD solar cells, so they have low short‐circuit current density Jsc, which impedes further increases in their power conversion efficiency (PCE). Here, a re‐assembling process (RP) is developed for perovskite nanocrystalline (PeNC) films made of colloidal perovskite nanocrystals to increase Jsc in PeNC solar cells. The RP of PeNC films increases their crystallite size and eliminates long‐chain ligands, and thereby overcomes the charge confinement in PeNC films. These changes facilitate exciton dissociation and increase carrier extraction in PeNC solar cells. By use of this method, the gradient‐bandgap PeNC solar cells achieve a Jsc = 19.30 mA cm−2 without compromising the photovoltage, and yield a high PCE of 16.46% with negligible hysteresis and good stability. This work provides a new strategy to process PeNC films and pave the way for high performance PeNC optoelectronic devices.
Lactate Efflux Inhibition by Syrosingopine/LOD Co‐Loaded Nanozyme for Synergetic Self‐Replenishing Catalytic Cancer Therapy and Immune Microenvironment Remodeling
Authors: Wu Shengming , Xu Lehua , He Chenlong , Wang Peng , Qin Jingwen , Guo Fangfang , Wang Yilong
Published: June 2023

An effective systemic mechanism regulates tumor development and progression; thus, a rational design in a one‐stone‐two‐birds strategy is meant for cancer treatment. Herein, a hollow Fe3O4 catalytic nanozyme carrier co‐loading lactate oxidase (LOD) and a clinically‐used hypotensor syrosingopine (Syr) are developed and delivered for synergetic cancer treatment by augmented self‐replenishing nanocatalytic reaction, integrated starvation therapy, and reactivating anti‐tumor immune microenvironment. The synergetic bio‐effects of this nanoplatform stemmed from the effective inhibition of lactate efflux through blocking the monocarboxylate transporters MCT1/MCT4 functions by the loaded Syr as a trigger. Sustainable production of hydrogen peroxide by catalyzation of the increasingly residual intracellular lactic acid by the co‐delivered LOD and intracellular acidification enabled the augmented self‐replenishing nanocatalytic reaction. Large amounts of produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) damaged mitochondria to inhibit oxidative phosphorylation as the substituted energy supply upon the hampered glycolysis pathway of tumor cells. Meanwhile, remodeling anti‐tumor immune microenvironment is implemented by pH gradient reversal, promoting the release of proinflammatory cytokines, restored effector T and NK cells, increased M1‐polarize tumor‐associated macrophages, and restriction of regulatory T cells. Thus, the biocompatible nanozyme platform achieved the synergy of chemodynamic/immuno/starvation therapies. This proof‐of‐concept study represents a promising candidate nanoplatform for synergetic cancer treatment.
Thermal behaviors of ethylene vinyl acetate encapsulants in fielded silicon photovoltaic modules
Authors: Palmiotti Elizabeth C. , Roberts Christine C. , King Bruce H.
Published: June 2023

Aging of silicon photovoltaic (PV) module packaging is one of the greatest limiters of PV module service lifetimes. Module characterization typically focuses on power degradation metrics, which do not convey the complexities of often simultaneous degradation mechanisms. In this work, PV modules with pristine references and known fielding histories were investigated by non‐destructive and destructive methods. Modules from Canadian Solar, Mission Solar, and Hanwha Q‐Cells were fielded for up to three years; select modules were removed from fielding each year for coring to allow for characterization of the encapsulant. Modules are commonly encapsulated with two protective layers of partially‐crystalline ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) polymer that must undergo a crosslinking reaction to achieve desired properties. The extent of crystallinity of the encapsulants as studied by differential scanning calorimetry showed differences between manufacturers and over time. Some encapsulants showed different magnitudes of crystal sizes which changed after fielding; encapsulants with the monodisperse crystal sizes did not change with fielding. This is due to differences in thermal history. These results have implications for stress development during module aging, since EVA crystal melting and crosslinking reactions can result in encapsulant density changes.
3D printed heterogeneous cation exchange membrane processed using stereolithography
Authors: Zárybnická Lucie , Meloun Zbyšek , Šafka Jiří , Truxová Veronika , Dvořák Karel , Machotová Jana
Published: June 2023

Membrane chemistry belongs to the field in which 3D printing can advantageously also be used because of enabling the production of prototypes with precisely defined dimensions. The presented work aimed to develop new polymeric compositions for heterogeneous cation exchange membranes manufactured using stereolithography (SLA) from commercially available materials. Three types of photo‐curable thermoset resins (acrylic resin and two types of epoxy resins) were used as polymer matrixes in combination with strong acid cation exchange resin (CER) powder. The membrane production consisted of several stages, namely mixing the photo‐curable resin with finely ground CER powder, processing using SLA, and appropriate post‐curing using UV light and elevated temperature. The work aimed to monitor the influence of the photo‐curable resin type and post‐curing on the microstructural, electrochemical, and mechanical properties of resulting membrane objects. The results revealed that heterogeneous cation exchange membranes could be processed using SLA from the mixture of the acrylic photo‐curable resin and CER powder (weight ratio of 60/40) without the need for post‐curing. These products exhibited high permselectivity (93%), high ion exchange capacity (2.23 meq⋅g−1), and sufficiently low electrical resistance (2200 Ω⋅cm), which predetermines them for efficient electrophoretic separation.
Moisture sources of summer heavy precipitation in two spatial patterns over Northeast China during 1979–2021
Authors: Yao Shibo , Lang Xianmei , Si Dong , Tian Zhiping
Published: June 2023

This study classifies the spatial distribution of heavy precipitation in summer (June–August) from 1979 to 2021 in the three provinces of Northeast China (TPNC) into two patterns by using the self‐organizing maps (SOM) neural network, and then quantitatively analyzes their moisture transport channels and sources using the Lagrangian model. The results show that the summer heavy precipitation in TPNC can be divided into the northern and southern patterns according to the distribution of the heavy precipitation. Both patterns of heavy precipitation are affected by the low‐level vortex west of TPNC, but the strength and shape of the low vortex are different. The northern pattern is mainly influenced by the westerly flow in the vortex in the mid‐high latitudes, which transports moisture from the upstream westerly region into TPNC. The southern pattern is mainly affected by the southerly jet stream southeast of TPNC, which conveys a large amount of moisture from the East Asian summer monsoon region into TPNC. In terms of the summer climatological mean, the northern pattern has a higher precipitation recycling rate, while the southern pattern has a lower recycling rate.
Comparisons of clinical characteristics, prognosis, epidemiological factors, and genetic susceptibility between HER2‐low and HER2‐zero breast cancer among Chinese females
Authors: Zheng Lu , Zhang Yunmeng , Wang Zhipeng , Wang Huan , Hao Chunfang , Li Chenyang , Zhao Yanrui , Lyu Zhangyan , Song Fangfang , Chen Kexin , Huang Yubei , Song Fengju
Published: June 2023

Background

Traditional human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‐negative breast cancer (BC) is recommended to be divided into HER2‐low and HER2‐zero subtypes due to different prognosis. However, few studies investigated their differences in clinical characteristics and prognosis among Chinese HER2‐negative BC and their stratified differences by hormone receptor (HR), while fewer studies investigated their differences in epidemiological factors and genetic susceptibility.

Methods

A total of 11,911 HER2‐negative BC were included to compare the clinical characteristics and prognosis between HER2‐zero and HER2‐low BC, and 4227 of the 11,911 HER2‐negative BC were further compared to 5653 controls to investigate subtype‐specific epidemiological factors and single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs).

Results

Overall, 64.2% of HER2‐negative BC were HER2‐low BC, and the stratified proportions of HER2‐low BC were 61.9% and 75.2% for HR‐positive and HR‐negative BC, respectively. Compared to HER2‐zero BC, HER2‐low BC among HR‐positive BC showed younger age at diagnosis, later stage, poorer differentiation, and higher Ki‐67, while elder age at diagnosis and lower mortality were observed for HER2‐low BC among HR‐negative BC (all p values <0.05). Compared to healthy controls, both HER2‐low and HER2‐zero BC are associated with similar epidemiological factors and SNPs. However, stronger interaction between epidemiological factors and polygenic risk scores were observed for HER2‐zero BC than HER2‐low BC among either HR‐positive [odds ratios: 10.71 (7.55–15.17) and 8.84 (6.19–12.62) for the highest risk group compared to the lowest risk group] or HR‐negative BC [7.00 (3.14–15.63) and 5.70 (3.26–9.98)].

Conclusions

HER2‐low BC should deserve more attention than HER2‐zero BC, especially in HR‐negative BC, due to larger proportion, less clinical heterogeneity, better prognosis, and less susceptibility to risk factors.
Mutational pattern off homologous recombination repair (HRR)‐related genes in upper tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Yang Kaiwei , Yu Wei , Liu Huanhuan , Lou Feng , Cao Shanbo , Wang Huina , He Zhisong
Published: June 2023

Background

Homologous recombination (HR) repair (HRR) has been indicated to be a biomarker for immunotherapy, chemotherapy, and poly‐ADP ribose polymerase inhibitors inhibitors (PARPis). Nonetheless, their molecular correlates in upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) have not been well studied. This study aimed to explore the molecular mechanism and tumor immune profile of HRR genes and the relevance of their prognostic value in patients with UTUC.

Materials and Methods

One hundred and ninety‐seven tumors and matched blood samples from Chinese UTUC were subjected to next‐generation sequencing. A total of 186 patients from The Cancer Genome Atlas were included. Comprehensive analysis was performed.

Results

In Chinese patients with UTUC, 5.01% harbored germline HRR gene mutations, and 1.01% had Lynch syndrome‐related genes. A total of 37.6% (74/197) of patients carried somatic or germline HRR gene mutations. There was marked discrepancy in the mutation landscapes, genetic interactions, and driver genes between the HRR‐mut cohorts and HRR‐wt cohorts. Aristolochic acid signatures and defective DNA mismatch repair signatures only existed in individuals in the HRR‐mut cohorts. Inversely, the unknown signature (signature A) and signature SBS55 only existed in patients in the HRR‐wt cohorts. HRR gene mutations regulated immune activities by NKT cells, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, hematopoietic stem cell, and M1 macrophages. In patients with local recurrence, patients with HRR gene mutations had poorer DFS rates than patients with wild‐type HRR genes.

Conclusions

Our results imply that the detection of HRR gene mutations can predict recurrence in patients with UC. In addition, this study provides a path to explore the role of HRR‐directed therapies, including PARPis, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy.
Applications of drag reducers for the pipeline transportation of heavy crude oils: A critical review and future research directions
Authors: Rushd Sayeed , Ferroudji Hicham , Yousuf Hazzaz , Walker Travis W. , Basu Avijit , Sen Tushar Kanti
Published: June 2023

The long‐distance pipeline transportation of heavy crudes demands optimal pumping procedures to abate overhead expenditures in the midstream phase. This can be facilitated by reducing both the oil viscosity and the frictional losses induced by the turbulent flow zone. The dualistic approach of reducing both viscosity and drag requires the optimization of several parameters such as concentrations and types of diluents and additives. This manuscript critically reviews various technologies being undertaken to facilitate the pipeline transportation of heavy crude oils by highlighting the technique of dilution coupled with the addition of drag reducing agents (DRA). DRA such as surfactants, nanoparticles, bio‐additives, polymers, and fibres are blended with the diluted crudes to suppress the proliferation of turbulent eddies which in turn assist in pumping the oil at a higher flow rate under constant pressure conditions. Several investigations have reported that drag reduction is significantly enhanced by varying the molecular structure of the DRA. In addition, an optimum flow rate coupled with a specific surfactant concentration at an ideal temperature can significantly reduce head losses and pumping expenditures. Further research is imperative to study the effect of the polymer structure with respect to the induced shear degradation and dissolution behavior of the crude.
Oxidation of Difluorocarbene by Pyridine N‐Oxide and Ensuing Access to Carbamoyl Fluorides†
Authors: Tang Hai‐Jun , Shi Xue‐Min , Zhu Xiao‐Yu , Wang Cheng‐Qiang , Feng Chao
Published: June 2023

Comprehensive Summary

A practical one‐pot preparation of carbamoyl fluorides from easily obtained pyridine N‐oxide, commercially available secondary amines and synthetically versatile difluorocarbene precursors (Ruppert‐Prakash reagent or Chen's reagent) was developed herein, which dexterously resorted to the oxidation of difluorocarbene by external pyridine N‐oxide to produce the toxic and gaseous fluorophosgene in situ. Notable features of this method include nice functionality tolerance, late‐stage modification of drug molecules and the recovery and recycle of quinoline.
Issues of integration, language and identity among Palestinian students at an Israeli “Hebrew‐speaking” University
Authors: Stock Friederike , Ron Yiftach
Published: June 2023

This study examines the experiences of Palestinian students at one of the largest universities in Israel, where most of the faculty members and students are Jewish and the language of study is Hebrew. A thematic content analysis of 15 in‐depth interviews was conducted with Palestinian students who are citizens of Israel or permanent residents living in East Jerusalem. It revealed the challenges at a Jewish‐dominated university on both an academic and a social level. Participants reported that increased exposure to their Jewish counterparts and acquiring greater proficiency in Hebrew facilitated improved intergroup contact with Jewish students. In contrast, the constraints of asymmetry, political tension, and a lack of Hebrew proficiency acted as barriers and were described as major causes of division between Palestinian and Jewish students. Furthermore, constant exposure to Jewish majority culture and the Hebrew language is found to be linked to a strong sense of Palestinian group identity. These findings expand our understanding of the interrelations between language, power and identity in asymmetric intergroup relationships.
Boolean logic in synthetic biology and biomaterials: Towards living materials in mammalian cell therapeutics
Authors: Bressler Eric M. , Adams Sarah , Liu Rong , Colson Yolonda L. , Wong Wilson W. , Grinstaff Mark W.
Published: June 2023

Background: The intersection of synthetic biology and biomaterials promises to enhance safety and efficacy in novel therapeutics. Both fields increasingly employ Boolean logic, which allows for specific therapeutic outputs (e.g., drug release, peptide synthesis) in response to inputs such as disease markers or bio‐orthogonal stimuli. Examples include stimuli‐responsive drug delivery devices and logic‐gated chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells. In this review, we explore recent manuscripts highlighting the potential of synthetic biology and biomaterials with Boolean logic to create novel and efficacious living therapeutics.

Main body: Collaborations in synthetic biology and biomaterials have led to significant advancements in drug delivery and cell therapy. Borrowing from synthetic biology, researchers have created Boolean‐responsive biomaterials sensitive to multiple inputs including pH, light, enzymes and more to produce functional outputs such as degradation, gel‐sol transition and conformational change. Biomaterials also enhance synthetic biology, particularly CAR T and adoptive T cell therapy, by modulating therapeutic immune cells in vivo. Nanoparticles and hydrogels also enable in situ generation of CAR T cells, which promises to drive down production costs and expand access to these therapies to a larger population. Biomaterials are also used to interface with logic‐gated CAR T cell therapies, creating controllable cellular therapies that enhance safety and efficacy. Finally, designer cells acting as living therapeutic factories benefit from biomaterials that improve biocompatibility and stability in vivo.

Conclusion: By using Boolean logic in both cellular therapy and drug delivery devices, researchers have achieved better safety and efficacy outcomes. While early projects show incredible promise, coordination between these fields is ongoing and growing. We expect that these collaborations will continue to grow and realize the next generation of living biomaterial therapeutics.
Formulation and mixing conditions of magnetic composite materials used for magnetic wedges in an interior permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Horiuchi Manabu , Yoshida Ryo , Nirei Masami , Sato Mitsuhide , Mizuno Tsutomu
Published: June 2023

An interior permanent magnet synchronous motor (IPMSM) is characterized by its high efficiency. However, torque ripple and loss occur because of the spatial harmonics generated by air‐gap permeance fluctuations. This study clarified that slot harmonic components can be suppressed by inserting magnetic wedges made of magnetic composite material in the slot opening of an IPMSM. First, the authors examined the torque and loss characteristics by varying relative permeability and saturation magnetic flux density of magnetic wedges using finite element analysis (FEA). Results indicated that the torque ripple and loss could be suppressed when the relative permeability of the magnetic wedge was μr = 10 to 22 and the saturation magnetic flux density was Bs = 0.5 to 0.75 T. Furthermore, the authors produced magnetic composite materials made of various soft magnetic material powders and examined their magnetic properties and viscosities. Results showed that a magnetic composite material with optimal magnetic properties and injectable viscosity could be manufactured using Fe‐Si‐Al with a low volume fraction.
Miniaturized matrix solid‐phase dispersion and solid‐phase clear‐up combined with capillary electrophoresis for efficient determination of trace bioactive components in complicated sample matrix: Take Wubi Shanyao Pill as an example
Authors: Gao Wei , Qin Yaxin , Zang Yaping , Zhu Jiaming , Chen Wei , Tong Shengqiang , Zeng Yuqun , Chu Chu
Published: June 2023

Accurate quantitative analysis of trace analytes in a complicated matrix is a challenge in modern analytical chemistry. An appropriate analytical method is considered to be one of the most common gaps during the whole process. In this study, a green and efficient strategy based on miniaturized matrix solid‐phase dispersion and solid‐phase extraction combined with capillary electrophoresis was first proposed for extracting, purifying and determining target analytes from complicated matrix, using Wubi Shanyao Pill as an example. In detail, 60 mg of samples were dispersed on MCM‐48 to obtain high yields of analytes, then the extract was purified with a solid‐phase extraction cartridge. Finally, four analytes in the purified sample solution were determined by capillary electrophoresis. The parameters affecting the extraction efficiency of matrix solid‐phase dispersion, purification efficiency of solid‐phase extraction and separation effect of capillary electrophoresis were investigated. Under the optimized conditions, all analytes demonstrated satisfactory linearity (R2>0.9983). What's more, the superior green potential of the developed method for the determination of complex samples was confirmed by the Analytical GREEnness Metric Approach. The established method was successfully applied in the accurate determination of target analytes in Wubi Shanyao Pill and thus provided reliable, sensitive, and efficient strategy support for its quality control.
The determination of dimethyl sulfoxide in natural waters using electrochemical reduction
Authors: McCulloch Ross , Tortell Philippe
Published: June 2023

A highly specific electrochemical reduction method has been developed that enables the trace level measurement of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) concentration in natural waters. Following the sparging of native dimethyl sulfide (DMS) from the sample, DMSO is reduced to DMS using a novel electrochemical workflow that relies upon CuSO4 as a redox mediator. The DMS produced through DMSO reduction is collected, concentrated, and detected using a previously described Purge & Trap‐Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization‐Tandem Mass Spectrometry (P&T‐APCI‐MS/MS) analytical workflow. The method provides a 0.5 pM detection limit for the analysis of DMSO in 10 mL sample volumes, with a demonstrated method precision of 5.4% for the analysis of consecutive 10 nM aqueous standards. The method selectivity for DMSO was evaluated using a range of commonly observed marine organosulfur compounds, none of which were found to interfere with the analysis at a reduction potential of 4 V. Method intercomparison confirmed that the electrochemical reduction provides results that are equivalent (at the 95% confidence level) to an established TiCl3 reduction protocol for the analysis of both freshwater and seawater samples. Relative to established methods of DMSO reduction, the electrochemical method provides excellent selectivity and reproducibility, and offers the potential for automated, high‐throughput analysis. In addition, the new electrochemical method does not require expensive, difficult to procure enzymes or hazardous, corrosive chemical reagents. Depth profile measurements of DMSO, DMS, and dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) for unfiltered seawater samples collected in Saanich Inlet, a coastal fjord in British Columbia, demonstrate the effectiveness of the DMSO reduction method in an oceanographic context.
Optimal polynomial smoothers for multigrid V‐cycles
Authors: Lottes James
Published: June 2023

The idea of using polynomial methods to improve simple smoother iterations within a multigrid method for a symmetric positive definite system is revisited. A two‐level bound going back to Hackbusch is optimized by a very simple iteration, a close cousin of the Chebyshev semi‐iterative method, but based on the Chebyshev polynomials of the fourth instead of first kind. A full V‐cycle bound for general polynomial smoothers is derived using the V‐cycle theory of McCormick. The fourth‐kind Chebyshev iteration is quasi‐optimal for the V‐cycle bound. The optimal polynomials for the V‐cycle bound can be found numerically, achieving about an 18% lower error contraction factor bound than the fourth‐kind Chebyshev iteration, asymptotically as the number of smoothing steps . Implementation of the optimized iteration is discussed, and the performance of the polynomial smoothers is illustrated with numerical examples.
Confinement Effects on the Structure of Entropy‐Induced Supercrystals
Authors: Goldmann Claire , Chaâbani Wajdi , Hotton Claire , Impéror‐Clerc Marianne , Moncomble Adrien , Constantin Doru , Alloyeau Damien , Hamon Cyrille
Published: June 2023

Depletion‐induced self‐assembly is routinely used to separate plasmonic nanoparticles (NPs) of different shapes, but less often for its ability to create supercrystals (SCs) in suspension. Therefore, these plasmonic assemblies have not yet reached a high level of maturity and their in‐depth characterization by a combination of in situ techniques is still very much needed. In this work, gold triangles (AuNTs) and silver nanorods (AgNRs) are assembled by depletion‐induced self‐assembly. Small Angle X‐ray Scattering (SAXS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis shows that the AuNTs and AgNRs form 3D and 2D hexagonal lattices in bulk, respectively. The colloidal crystals are also imaged by in situ Liquid‐Cell Transmission Electron Microscopy. Under confinement, the affinity of the NPs for the liquid cell windows reduces their ability to stack perpendicularly to the membrane and lead to SCs with a lower dimensionality than their bulk counterparts. Moreover, extended beam irradiation leads to disassembly of the lattices, which is well described by a model accounting for the desorption kinetics highlighting the key role of the NP‐membrane interaction in the structural properties of SCs in the liquid‐cell. The results shed light on the reconfigurability of NP superlattices obtained by depletion‐induced self‐assembly, which can rearrange under confinement.
A Multivalent Personalized Vaccine Orchestrating Two‐Signal Activation Rebuilds the Bridge Between Innate and Adaptive Antitumor Immunity
Authors: Kou Xiaorong , He Tao , Zhang Miaomiao , Wu Xinyue , Li Xinchao , Luo Rui , Wu Rui , Gou Xinyu , Shen Meiling , Wu Qinjie , Gong Changyang
Published: June 2023

Personalized vaccines capable of circumventing tumor heterogeneity have exhibited compelling prospects. However, their therapeutic benefit is greatly hindered by the limited antigen repertoire and poor response of CD8+ T‐cell immunity. Here, a double‐signal coregulated cross‐linking hydrogel‐based vaccine (Bridge‐Vax) is engineered to rebuild the bridge between innate and adaptive immunity for activating CD8+ T‐cells against full repertoire of tumor antigens. Mechanistically, unlike prominent CD4+ T‐cell responses in most cases, administration of Bridge‐Vax encapsulated with granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor concentrates a wave of dendritic cells (DCs), which further promotes DCs activation with costimulatory signal by the self‐adjuvanted nature of polysaccharide hydrogel. Simultaneously, synergy with the increased MHC‐I epitopes by codelivered simvastatin for cross‐presentation enhancement, Bridge‐Vax endows DCs with necessary two signals for orchestrating CD8+ T‐cell activation. Bridge‐Vax elicits potent antigen‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses in vivo, which not only shows efficacy in B16‐OVA model but confers specific immunological memory to protect against tumor rechallenge. Moreover, personalized multivalent Bridge‐Vax tailored by leveraging autologous tumor cell membranes as antigens inhibits postsurgical B16F10 tumor recurrence. Hence, this work provides a facile strategy to rebuild the bridge between innate and adaptive immunity for inducing potent CD8+ T‐cell immunity and would be a powerful tool for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
Prior achievement in math impacts adolescents’ help‐seeking behavior in interactive learning environments
Authors: Levy Cohen Rinat , Zusho Akane
Published: June 2023

Students who struggle to complete an assignment may rely on self‐regulatory strategies such as rereading class notes or learning from worked‐out examples from textbooks to handle tasks beyond their capability. Learners may also reach out to teachers or peers for assistance. In the past, seeking help from other individuals has been viewed as a dependent behavior. (Nelson‐Le Gall's 1985) ground‐breaking work created a paradigm shift that resulted in perceiving help seeking as an essential and desired self‐regulated learning skill that significantly contributes to academic achievement. Research has shown that not all students seek help when they are stuck. Unfortunately, it is typically low prior knowledge students who do not seek help in the classroom because they feel embarrassed. Recent research indicates, however, that the anonymity available in interactive learning environments seems to alleviate this situation.
Boundary terms and conserved charges in higher-derivative gauged supergravity
Authors: Cassani Davide , Ruipérez Alejandro , Turetta Enrico
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We address some issues in higher-derivative gauged supergravity with Chern-Simons terms, focusing on the five-dimensional case. We discuss the variational problem with Dirichlet boundary conditions as well as holographic renormalization in asymptotically locally AdS spacetimes, and derive the corresponding boundary terms. We then employ Wald’s formalism in order to define conserved charges associated to local symmetries (diffeomorphisms and U(1) gauge transformations), taking into account the effect of generic gauge Chern-Simons terms. We prove that the first law of black hole mechanics and the quantum statistical relation hold in this setup. Chern-Simons terms also lead us to distinguish between Noether charges and Page (or Komar) charges which satisfy the Gauss law. We make use of the latter to compute corrections to the angular momentum and electric charge of the supersymmetric black hole in AdS5 from its corrected near-horizon geometry. This also allows us to derive the microcanonical form of the entropy as a function of the conserved charges relying entirely on the near-horizon geometry. Finally, we comment on four-derivative gauged supergravity in four dimensions, showing that field redefinitions permit to simplify the action at linear order in the corrections, so that the equations of motion are those of the two-derivative theory.
Effects of alerting signals on the spatial Stroop effect: evidence for modality differences
Authors: Kahan Todd A. , Smith Zachary P.
Published: June 2023

Reaction times and error rates to a target’s identity are impaired when the target is presented in a location that mismatches the response required, relative to situations where the location of the target and required response overlap (the Simon effect) and the same is true when the target's identity conveys spatial information (the spatial Stroop effect). Prior studies have found that visual versions of the spatial Stroop effect are magnified when alerting cues appear before the target and results are consistent with a dual-route framework where alerting cues boost automatic stimulus–response motor associations through the direct processing route. However, the influence of alerting signals on auditory versions of the spatial Stroop effect have not been tested and there are reasons to believe that the alerting–congruency interaction may differ across stimulus modality. In two experiments the effects of alerting cues on auditory (Experiment 1; N = 98) and visual (Experiment 2; N = 97) spatial Stroop effects are examined. Results show that alerting cues boost the spatial Stroop effect with visual stimuli but not auditory stimuli and a distributional analysis provides support for there being modality differences in the decay (or inhibition) of response-code activation. Implications for explanations of the alerting–congruence interaction are discussed.
Athletes treated for inguinal-related groin pain by endoscopic totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair: long-term benefits of a prospective cohort
Authors: Meuzelaar R. R. , Visscher L. , den Hartog F. P. J. , Goedhart E. A. , Verleisdonk E. J. M. M. , Schiphorst A. H. W. , Burgmans J. P. J.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Inguinal-related groin pain (IRGP) in athletes is a multifactorial condition, posing a therapeutic challenge. If conservative treatment fails, totally extraperitoneal (TEP) repair is effective in pain relief. Because there are only few long-term follow-up results available, this study was designed to evaluate effectiveness of TEP repair in IRGP-patients years after the initial procedure.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the original, prospective cohort study (TEP-ID-study) were subjected to two telephone questionnaires. The TEP-ID-study demonstrated favorable outcomes after TEP repair for IRGP-patients after a median follow-up of 19 months. The questionnaires in the current study assessed different aspects, including, but not limited to pain, recurrence, new groin-related symptoms and physical functioning measured by the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score (HAGOS). The primary outcome was pain during exercise on the numeric rating scale (NRS) at very long-term follow-up.

Results

Out of 32 male participants in the TEP-ID-study, 28 patients (88%) were available with a median follow-up of 83 months (range: 69–95). Seventy-five percent of athletes were pain free during exercise (p < 0.001). At 83 months follow-up, a median NRS of 0 was observed during exercise (IQR 0–2), which was significantly lower compared to earlier scores (p <0.01). Ten patients (36%) mentioned subjective recurrence of complaints, however, physical functioning improved on all HAGOS subscales (p <0.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the safety and effectivity of TEP repair in a prospective cohort of IRGP-athletes, for whom conservative treatment had failed, with a follow-up period of over 80 months.
Parameterized complexity of multiwinner determination: more effort towards fixed-parameter tractability
Authors: Yang Yongjie , Wang Jianxin
Published: June 2023

We study the parameterized complexity of winner determination problems for three prevalent k-committee selection rules, namely the minimax approval voting (MAV), the proportional approval voting (PAV), and the Chamberlin–Courant’s approval voting (CCAV). It is known that these problems are computationally hard. Although they have been studied from the parameterized complexity point of view with respect to several natural parameters, many of them turned out to be -hard or -hard. Aiming at obtaining plentiful fixed-parameter algorithms, we revisit these problems by considering more natural single parameters, combined parameters, and structural parameters.
Collaborative emergency adaptation for ripple effect mitigation in intertwined supply networks
Authors: Ivanov Dmitry
Published: June 2023

For the first time, the ripple effect is examined in the setting of an intertwined supply network. Through simulations, we model the disruption propagation in supply chains having common suppliers. We explore conditions under which a collaborative coordination of re-purposed capacities and shared stocks can help mitigate the ripple effect and improve recovery performance. As a result, we conceptualize the notion of collaborative emergency adaptation contributing to development of “network-of networks” and viability perspective in supply chain resilience management. We illustrate our approach with anyLogistix simulations and deduce some generalized theoretical and managerial insights on how and when a collaborative emergency adaptation can be implemented and help improve supply chain resilience and viability.