bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of neuropathic pain by traditional Chinese medicine: An updated review on their effect and putative mechanisms of action
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Zhang Jiquan , Feng Yi
Published: April 2024

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a common chronic pain with heterogeneous clinical features, and consequent lowering of quality of life. Currently, although conventional chemical drugs can effectively manage NP symptoms in the short term, their long‐term efficacy is limited, and they come with significant side effects. In this regard, traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) provides a promising avenue for treating NP. Numerous pharmacological and clinical studies have substantiated the effectiveness of TCM with multiple targets and mechanisms. We aimed to outline the characteristics of TCM, including compound prescriptions, single Chinese herbs, active ingredients, and TCM physical therapy, for NP treatment and discussed their efficacy by analyzing the pathogenesis of NP. Various databases, such as PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang database, were searched. We focused on recent research progress in NP treatment by TCM. Finally, we proposed the future challenges and emerging trends in the treatment of NP. TCM demonstrates significant clinical efficacy in NP treatment, employing multi‐mechanisms. Drawing from the theory of syndrome differentiation, four types of dialectical treatments for NP by compound TCM prescriptions were introduced: promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis; promoting blood circulation and promote Qi flow; warming Yang and benefiting Qi; soothing the liver and regulating Qi. Meanwhile, 33 single Chinese herbs and 25 active ingredients were included. In addition, TCM physical therapy (e.g., acupuncture, massage, acupoint injection, and fumigation) also showed good efficacy in NP treatment. TCM, particularly through the use of compound prescriptions and acupuncture, holds bright prospects in treating NP owing to its diverse holistic effects. Nonetheless, the multi‐targets of TCM may result in possible disadvantages to NP treatment, and the pharmacological mechanisms of TCM need further evaluation. Here, we provide an overview of NP treatment via TCM, based on the pathogenesis and the potential therapeutic mechanisms, thus providing a reference for further studies.
Phytoestrogens: Chemistry, potential health benefits, and their medicinal importance
Authors: Chavda Vivek P. , Chaudhari Amit Z. , Balar Pankti C. , Gholap Amol , Vora Lalitkumar K.
Published: April 2024

Phytoestrogens, also known as xenoestrogens, are secondary metabolites derived from plants that have similar structures and biological effects as human estrogens. These compounds do not directly affect biological functions but can act as agonists or antagonists depending on the level of endogenous estrogen in the body. Phytoestrogens may have an epigenetic mechanism of action independent of estrogen receptors. These compounds are found in more than 300 plant species and are synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway, with specific enzymes leading to various chemical structures. Phytoestrogens, primarily phenolic compounds, include isoflavonoids, flavonoids, stilbenes, and lignans. Extensive research in animals and humans has demonstrated the protective effects of phytoestrogens on estrogen‐dependent diseases. Clinical trials have also shown their potential benefits in conditions such as osteoporosis, Parkinson's disease, and certain types of cancer. This review provides a concise overview of phytoestrogen classification, chemical diversity, and biosynthesis and discusses the potential therapeutic effects of phytoestrogens, as well as their preclinical and clinical development.
Assessment of community readiness to address malnutrition in rural southwest Guatemala
Authors: Weber Annika M. , Delgado‐Zapata Roberto , Fineman Melissa , Jimenez‐Zambrano Andrea , Pfluger Brigitte A. , Cunningham Maureen , Calvimontes Diva M. , Ryan Elizabeth P. , Lamb Molly M.
Published: April 2024

Background

Malnutrition is prevalent throughout southwest Guatemala, where >40% of children suffer from chronic undernutrition. Evidence supports that assessing a community's awareness and readiness to address malnutrition is a critical first step in improving the success of a nutrition intervention program. The objective of this study was to apply the community readiness model (CRM) to assess community readiness to address childhood malnutrition in a rural southwest region of Guatemala.

Methods

Thirteen key respondents of varied social roles and demographics residing in the region were interviewed. Interview questions related to addressing malnutrition were from the following predefined dimensions: Community Efforts, Community Knowledge of Efforts, Leadership, Community Climate, Community Knowledge, and Resources for Efforts. Interview recordings and notes were analyzed and scored according to the CRM guidelines, and a standardized analysis was conducted.

Results

The overall community readiness score was 4.26 (preplanning: awareness of the issue). Community Efforts had a total score of 5 (Preparation: preparing to take action on the issue). Community Knowledge of Efforts, Community Climate, Community Knowledge, and Resources for Efforts Dimensions each had a total score of 4 (Preplanning: awareness of the issue). The overall score for the Leadership dimension was 2 (Denial/resistance: belief that the problem does not exist within the community). These scores demonstrate clear recognition for action to address childhood malnutrition as a problem. However, efforts to combat childhood malnutrition are not yet focused nor detailed for community action.

Conclusions

This rural southwest region of Guatemala recognizes that childhood malnutrition is a problem. However, efforts to address malnutrition are not yet focused or detailed enough to have measurable impact in addressing this issue. For the region to advance the stage of community readiness, it is essential to enhance knowledge of dietary strategies aimed at improving nutrition for children and increase engagement from local leadership.
Generating Microwave Signals with Enhancive Amplitudes Using Superconductor Single Flux Quantum Pulses for Controlling Quantum Bit
Authors: Shen Hongxiang , He Yuxing , Han Zeyu , Li Zongyuan , Luo Wenhui , Cheng Lan , Luo Yanyi , Jing Bo , Yoshikawa Nobuyuki
Published: April 2024

In this study, the on‐chip generation of microwave signals are proposed for controlling nearby quantum bits in a low‐temperature environment, utilizing superconducting logical and RF components. To achieve enhanced amplitude of the microwave, superconducting single flux quantum (SFQ) pulse pairs are employed, which can have either the same or reversal polarity, serving as the basic elements of the generator. The SFQ pulse pairs are then combined and wave‐shaped by using a microwave combining filter, which finally outputs desired microwave signals with narrow line‐width. The amplitude of the microwave signal correlates with the interval between two SFQ pulses in a pair and can be adjusted accordingly. To validate the proposal, test chips are fabricated and performed experiments. The experimental results confirm that the method using a reverse‐polarity pulse can maximize the output microwave amplitude and provide control of the initial phase of the output microwave. This improvement offers a superior alternative for generating microwaves using superconducting circuits to control quantum bits.
Development and validation of high‐performance liquid chromatography‐Orbitrap mass spectrometric method for quantification of NDMA in ranitidine drug products and evaluation of antioxidants as inhibitors of classical nitrosation reaction
Authors: Aishwarya Dande , Nikhil Pallaprolu , Natesan Subramanian , Velayutham Ravichandiran , Peraman Ramalingam
Published: April 2024

Rationale

N‐Nitroso dimethylamine (NDMA) is a mutagenic impurity detected in several ranitidine products. The amino functional group of ranitidine is a risk factor for classical nitrosation‐induced NDMA formation in ranitidine drug products during storage conditions. The United States Food and Drug Administration (US FDA) recommended the use of antioxidants to control NDMA in drug products. Considering the need for sensitive analytics, a liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry (LC–HRMS) method was developed and validated to detect NDMA in this pilot study to demonstrate the antioxidants as inhibitors of nitrosation reactions.

Methods

The method, utilizing an EC‐C18 column and tuned to atmospheric pressure chemical ionization/selected ion monitoring (APCI/SIM) mode, separated NDMA (m/z: 75.0553; tR: 3.71 min) and ranitidine (m/z: 315.1485; tR: 8.61 min). APCI mode exhibited four times higher sensitivity to NDMA than electrospray ionization (ESI) mode. Classical nitrosation of the dimethyl amino group of ranitidine was studied with sodium nitrite in solid pellets. Antioxidants (alpha‐tocopherol, ascorbic acid, and trolox) were evaluated as NDMA attenuators in ranitidine pellets under vulnerable storage conditions. The developed method quantified NDMA levels in samples, extracted with methanol through vortex shaking for 45 min.

Results

The method achieved a limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) of 0.01 and 0.05 ng/mL, respectively, with linearity within 1–5000 ng/mL (R1: 0.9995). It demonstrated good intra‐day and inter‐day precision (% RSD [relative standard deviation]: <2) and accuracy (96.83%–101.72%). Nitrosation of ranitidine induced by nitrite was significant (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.9579) at various sodium nitrite levels. All antioxidants efficiently attenuated NDMA formation during ranitidine nitrosation. Ascorbic acid exhibited the highest NDMA attenuation (96.98%), followed by trolox (90.58%). This study recommends 1% ascorbic acid and trolox as potent NDMA attenuators in ranitidine drug products.

Conclusions

This study compared the effectiveness of antioxidants as NDMA attenuators in ranitidine under storage conditions susceptible to NDMA generation. The study concluded that ascorbic acid and trolox are potent inhibitors of NDMA formation and nitrosation attenuators in ranitidine drug products.
Safe adaptive output‐feedback optimal control of a class of linear systems
Authors: Mahmud S M Nahid , Abudia Moad , Nivison Scott A. , Bell Zachary I. , Kamalapurkar Rushikesh
Published: April 2024

The objective of this research is to enable safety‐critical systems to simultaneously learn and execute optimal control policies in a safe manner to achieve complex autonomy. Learning optimal policies via trial and error, that is, traditional reinforcement learning, is difficult to implement in safety‐critical systems, particularly when task restarts are unavailable. Safe model‐based reinforcement learning techniques based on a barrier transformation have recently been developed to address this problem. However, these methods rely on full‐state feedback, limiting their usability in a real‐world environment. In this work, an output‐feedback safe model‐based reinforcement learning technique based on a novel barrier‐aware dynamic state estimator has been designed to address this issue. The developed approach facilitates simultaneous learning and execution of safe control policies for safety‐critical linear systems. Simulation results indicate that barrier transformation is an effective approach to achieve online reinforcement learning in safety‐critical systems using output feedback.
Decentralized deconfliction of aerial robots in high intensity traffic structures
Authors: Crann Verdon , Amiri Peyman , Knox Samuel , Crowther William
Published: April 2024

Projections for future air mobility envisage intensely utilized airspace that does not simply scale up from existing systems with centralized air traffic control. This paper considers the implementation and test of a software and hardware framework for decentralized control of aerial vehicles within intensely used airspace. Up to 10 rotary wing vehicles of maximum all up mass of are flown in an outdoor volume with length scale of with GPS and WiFi connectivity. Flight control is implemented using a Pixhawk 4 flight controller running the PX4 firmware with guidance algorithms run on a separate onboard companion computer. Deconfliction is implemented using a simple elastic repulsion model with a guidance update rate of . Traffic structures are constructed from a path of directed waypoints and associated cross sectional geometry. Junctions are implemented when two paths converge into one or when one path diverges into two. Agents engage with structures through execution of flow, merge and swirl velocity rules. Calibration experiments showed that the worst case latency in agents sharing position information was of the order of made up from delays due to finite guidance update rate, WiFi processing and centralized message processing. A choice of vehicle cruise speed of and conflict radius of provided an acceptable compromise between experiment time efficiency (speed) and spatial efficiency (resolution) within the test volume. Results from recirculating junction experiments show that peak deconfliction activity occurs at the junction node, however biased distribution of agents within a corridor means the peak intensity is pushed ahead of the node. Use of meshed helical junction structures significantly reduces the intensity of conflict at the expense of reduced junction time efficiency.
Coherence of recurring fires and land use change in South America
Authors: Ren Shulin , Xu Xiyan , Jia Gensuo , Huang Anqi , Ma Wei
Published: April 2024

Fire events in South America are becoming more extensive and frequent as climate extremes and human pressures increase, and even repeatedly occurring in some areas within decades. However, the relationship between recurring fires and vegetation dynamics remains unclear. Here, we extracted the number of fire occurrences using burned area satellite product and analysed the relationship between recurring fires and vegetation dynamics with remote sensing land use and vegetation index datasets in South America. We show that approximately 1.39 × 106 km2 of burnt area has experienced recurring fires during 2001–2020. More than half of burnt area of recurring fires occurred in savannahs with remaining burnt area in grasslands, forests and croplands. Although forests tended to be less susceptible to recurring fires among all vegetation types, their coverage loss with recurring fires was the greatest. The greater proportion of forest conversion to croplands concurred with more recurring fires. Conversely, the coverage of croplands and grasslands gained the most with recurring fires. In the areas without vegetation conversion, more frequent recurring fires further suppressed canopy greenness and density, even in fire‐adapted savannahs and grasslands. Our results suggest that recurring fires and land use change are generally coincident, reflecting the intense pressure of human activities on natural vegetation in South America. Thus, coordinated efforts on vegetation conservation and sustainable management of human‐induced burning in the region are urgently needed.
Vesiculopustular Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and Systemic Symptoms Induced by Levetiracetam
Authors: Norman Thomas , Guenther Jana , Wu Kevin , DeClerck Brittney , Worswick Scott
Published: April 2024

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction characterised by fever, lymphadenopathy, morbilliform rash, haematologic abnormalities, and multiorgan involvement. Herein, we describe a 32-year-old female presenting with a 9-day history of facial oedema, cervical and inguinal lymphadenopathy, and a pruritic rash comprised of vesicles and pustules on her face, trunk, and extremities. Her only medications were valproate, which she had been taking for several years, and levetiracetam, which was initiated 41 days prior to rash onset. On the 16th day of her rash, she was diagnosed with DRESS induced by levetiracetam (Registry of Severe Cutaneous Adverse Reactions: 5). At this point, her absolute eosinophil count was 0.9 × 109 cells/L and aspartate and alanine transaminase levels were 357 and 339 U/L, respectively. Pustules with a morbilliform rash may occur in up to 30% of DRESS cases. In rarer instances, as in our patient, DRESS can present with isolated pustules and vesicles. Similarly, although rare, DRESS can be induced by levetiracetam.
Severe Atypical Juvenile Pityriasis Rubra Pilaris Diagnosed in Adulthood with a Dramatic Improvement with Ustekinumab
Authors: McCarthy Rebecca L. , Oldham Jaimie , Barbosa Elsa , Sinclair Catriona , Cunningham Malvina , O’Toole Edel A.
Published: April 2024

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is a rare skin disease which manifests as a psoriasiform dermatosis and palmoplantar keratoderma and has significant clinical-histopathological overlap with psoriasis. Recently, several case reports have demonstrated successful treatment of PRP with anti-IL7A and anti-IL12/anti-IL23 monoclonal antibodies. We report a case of atypical juvenile PRP definitively diagnosed during adulthood with presence of CARD14 mutation. This case demonstrates a dramatic improvement with ustekinumab and highlights the role of genetic testing in chronic disease of diagnostic uncertainty.
Implications of Natural 3′–5′– Linkages in the Loop Region of Isomeric 2′–5′–Linked Thrombin–Binding Aptamer
Authors: Aher Manisha , Kumar Vaijayanti A. , Fernandes Moneesha
Published: April 2024

The backbone modification of the thrombin‐binding aptamer (TBA) in the TT and TGT loop regions by isomeric 2′–5′–linkages was found to impose additive destabilizing effects on the thermal stability of the G‐quadruplex structure. In contrast, the thermal stability of isomeric 2′–5′–linked TBA, i. e., isoTBA, was significantly improved by isomeric 3′–5′–phosphodiester linkages. The isoTBA, when modified with 3′–5′–linkages in both lateral TT loops (isoTBA202), exhibited higher thermal stability and enzymatic stability in comparison to other oligomers in the present study, and TBA202 showed higher antithrombin activity than other loop‐modified TBA oligomers.
Arsenate Adsorption from Aqueous Solutions Using Chitosan/Fe‐Nanoparticles Composite Microspheres
Authors: Manzo‐Valencia Sandra , Alfaro‐Cuevas‐Villanueva Ruth , Zárate‐Medina Juan , Manzo‐Valencia María Karina , Huirache‐Acuña Rafael , Cortés‐Martínez Raúl
Published: April 2024

The adsorption behavior and synthesis of a chitosan microsphere composite with iron nanoparticles (Ch‐Fe) for the removal of arsenates [As(V)] from aqueous solutions were investigated. First, the chitosan microspheres (Ch‐SD) were obtained using the Spray Dryer volatilization technique (SD), optimizing their particle size. Then, the iron nanoparticles (Fe‐NPs) were prepared using the microwave precipitation technique. The composite was characterized, and the arsenate adsorption parameters were determined through batch‐type experiments. Significantly fast adsorption rates were observed for both adsorbents. Besides, Ch‐Fe and Ch‐SD effectively removed arsenates over a wide pH range. The hydroxyl and amino functional groups are involved in removing arsenates. The Pseudo‐second order and the Elovich models described arsenate kinetic sorption data for Ch‐Fe and Ch‐SD, respectively. The As(V) maximum adsorption capacities were 27.46 mg/g and 29.94 mg/g for Ch‐SD and Ch‐Fe, respectively, increasing significantly at elevated temperatures. The Langmuir‐Freundlich model adequately described the isothermal data for both materials, suggesting adsorption heterogeneity. The composite's surface impregnation with Fe‐NPs enhanced the Ch‐SD adsorption properties. The SD method was suitable for obtaining the chitosan/Fe‐NPs microspheres and effectively removed As(V) from aqueous solutions.
Evaluating Terrestrol A as an Inhibitor Against SARS‐CoV‐2and Invasive Fungal Pathogens: A Comprehensive Computational Analysis
Authors: Singha Basanta , Arora Bhoomika , Karmaker Rituparna , Richa Kikoleho , Longkumer Naruti , Thaer Abdulhameed Haider , Abid Mohammad , Bora Sinha Upasana
Published: April 2024

The highly contagious SARS‐CoV‐2 virus, which initiated the COVID‐19 pandemic, has resulted in a significant loss of life worldwide. While vaccines and therapeutics have helped mitigate the impact of SARS‐CoV‐2, worries still persist regarding the emergence of Variants of Concern (VOCs). Additionally, the immunosuppressive effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 and steroid treatments increase susceptibility to complex fungal co–infections (e. g., aspergillosis and candidiasis), complicating treatment and escalating mortality rates. These circumstances highlight the urgent need for novel therapeutics. Thus, this study explores gentisyl alcohol and its derivatives as inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 and fungal pathogens (Aspergillus fumigatus and Candida auris) via in‐silico methodologies. Initial multi–targeted docking simulations revealed that Terrestrol A(10) exhibited highly promising results, displaying the most favourable MolDock‐scores against all targets of interest, particularly against PDB ID 4K90 and 7CR5. The subsequent assessment of Terrestrol A(10) for their druglikeness, ADME, toxicity profiling, bioactivity, and PASS prediction also yielded highly favourable results. Structural dynamics analysis revealed stable yet slightly unfolding complexes, affirming their integrity. DFT studies also demonstrated favourable reactivity of Terrestrol A(10). This investigation identifies Terrestrol A(10) as a highly promising inhibitor against SARS‐CoV‐2 and fungal pathogens, laying the groundwork for in vitro and in vivo validation of its efficacy and clinical utility.
Stable Zinc Anode Facilitated by Regenerated Silk Fibroin‐modified Hydrogel Protective Layer
Authors: Huo Peixian , Ming Xing , Wang Yueyang , Yu Qinglu , Liang Rui , Sun Guoxing
Published: April 2024

Inherent dendrite growth and side reactions of zinc anode caused by its unstable interface in aqueous electrolytes severely limit the practical applications of zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs). To overcome these challenges, a protective layer for Zn anode inspired by cytomembrane structure is developed with PVA as framework and silk fibroin gel suspension (SFs) as modifier. This PVA/SFs gel‐like layer exerts similar to the solid electrolyte interphase, optimizing the anode‐electrolyte interface and Zn2+ solvation structure. Through interface improvement, controlled Zn2+ migration/diffusion, and desolvation, this buffer layer effectively inhibits dendrite growth and side reactions. The additional SFs provide functional improvement and better interaction with PVA by abundant functional groups, achieving a robust and durable Zn anode with high reversibility. Thus, the PVA/SFs@Zn symmetric cell exhibits an ultra‐long lifespan of 3150 h compared to bare Zn (182 h) at 1.0 mAh cm−2–1.0 mAh cm−2, and excellent reversibility with an average Coulombic efficiency of 99.04% under a large plating capacity for 800 cycles. Moreover, the PVA/SFs@Zn||PANI/CC full cells maintain over 20 000 cycles with over 80% capacity retention under harsh conditions at 5 and 10 A g−1. This SF‐modified protective layer for Zn anode suggests a promising strategy for reliable and high‐performance ZIBs.
Emerging Vanadium‐Doped Cobalt Chloride Carbonate Hydroxide for Flexible Electrochromic Micro‐Supercapacitor: Charged‐State Prediction from RGB Input by ANN Model
Authors: Pradhan Lingaraj , Kamila Swagatika , Padhy Ganeswara , Das Debi Prasad , Jena Bikash Kumar
Published: April 2024

Multifunctional devices integrated with electrochromic and supercapacitance properties are fascinating because of their extensive usage in modern electronic applications. In this work, vanadium‐doped cobalt chloride carbonate hydroxide hydrate nanostructures (V‐C3H NSs) are successfully synthesized and show unique electrochromic and supercapacitor properties. The V‐C3H NSs material exhibits a high specific capacitance of 1219.9 F g−1 at 1 mV s−1 with a capacitance retention of 100% over 30 000 CV cycles. The electrochromic performance of the V‐C3H NSs material is confirmed through in situ spectroelectrochemical measurements, where the switching time, coloration efficiency (CE), and optical modulation (∆T) are found to be 15.7 and 18.8 s, 65.85 cm2 C−1 and 69%, respectively. A coupled multilayer artificial neural network (ANN) model is framed to predict potential and current from red (R), green (G), and blue (B) color values. The optimized V‐C3H NSs are used as the active materials in the fabrication of flexible/wearable electrochromic micro‐supercapacitor devices (FEMSDs) through a cost‐effective mask‐assisted vacuum filtration method. The fabricated FEMSD exhibits an areal capacitance of 47.15 mF cm−2 at 1 mV s−1 and offers a maximum areal energy and power density of 104.78 Wh cm−2 and 0.04 mW cm−2, respectively. This material's interesting energy storage and electrochromic properties are promising in multifunctional electrochromic energy storage applications.
Ultrastrong and Reusable Solar‒Thermal‒Electric Generators by Economical Starch Vitrimers
Authors: Gao Bingbing , Ku Hang , Chen Yukun , Zhang Shuidong
Published: April 2024

In frigid regions, it is imperative to possess functionality materials that are ultrastrong, reusable, and economical, providing self‐generated heat and electricity. One promising solution is a solar‒thermal‒electric (STE) generator, composed of solar‒thermal conversion phase change composites (PCCs) and temperature‐difference power‐generation‐sheets. However, the existing PCCs face challenges with conflicting requirements for solar‒thermal conversion efficiency and mechanical robustness, mainly due to monotonous functionalized aerogel framework. Herein, a novel starch vitrimer aerogel is proposed that incorporates orientational distributed carboxylated carbon nanotubes (CCNT) to create PCC. This innovative design integrates large through‐holes, mechanical robustness, and superior solar‒thermal conversion. Remarkably, PCC with only 0.8 wt.% CCNT loading achieves 85.8 MPa compressive strength, 102.4 °C at 200 mW cm−2 irradiation with an impressive 92.9% solar–thermal conversion efficiency. Noteworthy, the STE generator assembled with PCC harvests 99.1 W m−2 output power density, surpassing other reported STE generators. Strikingly, even under harsh conditions of −10 °C and 10 mW cm‒2 irradiation, the STE generator maintains 20 °C for PCC with 325 mV output voltage and 45 mA current, showcasing enhanced electricity generation in colder environments. This study introduces a groundbreaking STE generator, paving the way for self‐sufficient heat and electricity supply in cold regions.
Identifying the Active Sites in MoSi2@MoO3 Heterojunctions for Enhanced Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Gao Bo , Cheng Qiuping , Du Xiaoye , Ding Shujiang , Xiao Chunhui , Wang Jin , Song Zhongxiao , Jang Ho Won
Published: April 2024

Developing Two‐dimensional (2D) Mo‐based heterogeneous nanomaterials is of great significance for energy conversion, especially in alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), however, it remains a challenge to identify the active sites at the interface due to the structure complexity. Herein, the real active sites are systematically explored during the HER process in varied Mo‐based 2D materials by theoretical computational and magnetron sputtering approaches first to filtrate the candidates, then successfully combined the MoSi2 and MoO3 together through Oxygen doping to construct heterojunctions. Benefiting from the synergistic effects between the MoSi2 and MoO3, the obtained MoSi2@MoO3 exhibits an unprecedented overpotential of 72 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Density functional theory calculations uncover the different Gibbs free energy of hydrogen adsorption (ΔGH*) values achieved at the interfaces with different sites as adsorption sites. The results can facilitate the optimization of heterojunction electrocatalyst design principles for the Mo‐based 2D materials.
A Universal Strategy to Construct High‐Performance Homo‐ and Heterogeneous Microgel Assembly Bioinks
Authors: Xu Xinbin , Li Haofei , Chen Junlin , Lv Chuhan , He Weijun , Zhang Xing , Feng Qi , Dong Hua
Published: April 2024

Three dimensional (3D) extrusion bioprinting aims to replicate the complex architectures and functions of natural tissues and organs. However, the conventional hydrogel and new‐emerging microgel bioinks are both difficult in achieving simultaneously high shape‐fidelity and good maintenance of cell viability/function, leading to limited amount of qualified hydrogel/microgel bioinks. Herein, a universal strategy is reported to construct high‐performance microgel assembly (MA) bioinks by using epigallocatechin gallate‐modified hyaluronic acid (HA‐EGCG) as coating agent and phenylboronic acid grafted hyaluronic acid (HA‐PBA) as assembling agent. HA‐EGCG can spontaneously form uniform coating on the microgel surface via mussel‐inspired chemistry, while HA‐PBA quickly forms dynamic phenylborate bonds with HA‐EGCG, conferring the as‐prepared MA bioinks with excellent rheological properties, self‐healing, and tissue‐adhesion. More importantly, this strategy is applicable to various microgel materials, enabling the preparation of homo‐ and heterogeneous MA (homo‐MA and hetero‐MA) bioinks and the hierarchical printing of complicated structures with high fidelity by integration of different microgels containing multiple materials/cells in spatial and compositional levels. It further demonstrates the printing of breast cancer organoid in vitro using homo‐MA and hetero‐MA bioinks and its preliminary application for drug testing. This universal strategy offers a new solution to construct high‐performance bioinks for extrusion bioprinting.
Effect of Heat Input on Austenite Reversion, Recrystallization, and Ensuing Impact Toughness in Simulated Intercritical Coarse‐Grained Heat Affected Zone of Medium Mn Steel
Authors: Tao Zhen , Yao Chunxia , Yu Shuai , Gao Cairu , Wu Hongyan , Gao Xiuhua , Du Linxiu
Published: April 2024

A systematic experimental study has been conducted on the simulated intercritical coarse‐grained heat affected zone of 690 MPa grade heavy‐plate medium Mn steel by tailoring heat input of the first welding pass to obtain the influence of initial microstructure on the austenite reversion mechanism, recrystallization, and resultant impact toughness. Results reveal that prior austenite grain size significantly increases from 30 ± 11, 41 ± 14 to 54 ± 15 μm with the increasing heat input from 15, 30 to 50 kJ cm−1, which affect the nucleation site of reversed austenite, recrystallization mechanism, and final microstructure. Accordingly, impact toughness is better at the heat input of 30 kJ cm−1 (75.2 ± 0.8 J) in comparison with that of 15 kJ cm−1 (63.3 ± 13.3 J) and 50 kJ cm−1 (26.7 ± 6.5 J) at −40 °C, which is mainly ascribed to the formation of lamellar heterogeneous structures, multiplication of slip system and morphology of high‐angle grain boundaries.
Investigation on mechanical behavior of engineered cementitious composites incorporating alkali‐resistant glass fiber and quarry dust
Authors: Ramya V. , Vijayaprabha C.
Published: April 2024

At present, engineered cementitious composites (ECC) are rapidly replacing ordinary concrete in the building production due to its superior durability and mechanical qualities. Enormous researches have been done on ECC incorporating various fibers, industrial wastes, supplementary cementitious materials and super plasticizers. As far as fiber is concerned, poly vinyl alcohol fiber was widely explored. In this study, attempt has been made to involve alkali resistant glass fiber as a replacement for poly vinyl alcohol fiber. In addition, the high rate related with ECC as a result of the utilization of micro‐sized silica sand has restricted its extensive pertinences. Thus, this study recommends utilization of quarry dust to replace fine silica sand in the ECC at amounts ranging from 0% to 100% in order to establish a green, sustainable and cost‐effective ECC. The flowability and mechanical demeanor of the ECC mixtures in terms of the tensile, compressive and flexural properties were evaluated. It is arrived that 2% of volume fraction would be the optimum dosage by which better mechanical properties can be achieved. As a result of the present research findings, it is found that the quarry dust could be a better substitute for silica sand up to 75% without any compromise in compressive and flexural strengths. To attain higher tensile qualities, however, it might not be appropriate to replace more than 50% of the silica sand with quarry dust. Cost analysis of the ECC mixtures show that using quarry dust as aggregate is both cost‐effective and sustainable.
Synergistic redox reactions toward co‐production of H2O2 and value‐added chemicals: Dual‐functional photocatalysis to achieving sustainability
Authors: Su Brenden Jing , Foo Joel Jie , Ling Grayson Zhi Sheng , Ong Wee‐Jun
Published: April 2024

Integrating H2O2 evolution with oxidative organic synthesis in a semiconductor‐driven photoredox reaction is highly attractive since H2O2 and high‐value chemicals can be concurrently produced using solar light as the only energy input. The dual‐functional photocatalytic approach, free from sacrificial agents, enables simultaneous production of H2O2 and high‐value organic chemicals. This strategy promises a green and sustainable organic synthesis with minimal greenhouse gas emissions. In this review, we first elucidate the fundamental principles of cooperative photoredox integration of H2O2 synthesis and selective organic oxidation with simultaneous utilization of photoexcited electrons and holes over semiconductor‐based photocatalysts. Afterwards, a thorough review on the recent advancements of cooperative photoredox synthesis of H2O2 and value‐added chemicals is presented. Notably, in‐depth discussions and insights into the techniques for unravelling the photoredox reaction mechanisms are elucidated. Finally, critical challenges and prospects in this thriving field are comprehensively discussed. It is envisioned that this review will serve as a pivotal guidance on the rational design of such dual‐functional photocatalytic system, thereby further stimulating the development of economical and environmentally benign H2O2 and high‐value chemicals production.
Genome‐wide identification and functional profile analysis of long non‐coding RNAs in Avicennia marina
Authors: Wang Lingling , Yuan Zixin , Wang Jingyi , Guan Yali
Published: April 2024

Avicennia marina, known for its remarkable adaptability to the challenging coastal environment, including high salinity, tide, and anaerobic soils, holds pivotal functions in safeguarding the coastal ecosystem. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have emerged as significant players in various natural processes of plants such as development. However, lncRNAs in A. marina remain largely unknown and uncharacterized. Here, we employed the transcriptome datasets from multiple tissues, such as root, leaf, and seed, to detect and characterize the lncRNAs of A. marina. Analyzing synthetically, we finally identified 6333 lncRNAs in the A. marina. These lncRNAs exhibited distinct features compared to messenger RNAs, including larger exons, lower guanine‐cytosine contents, lower expression levels, and higher tissue specificities. Moreover, we identified thousands of tissue‐specific lncRNAs across the examined tissues and further found that these tissue‐specific lncRNAs were significantly enriched in biological processes related to the major functions of their corresponding tissues. For instance, leaf‐specific lncRNAs showed prominent enrichment in photosynthesis, oxidation–reduction processes, and light harvesting. By providing a comprehensive dataset and functional annotations for A. marina lncRNAs, this study offers a valuable overview of lncRNAs in A. marina and lays the fundamental foundation for further functional exploring of them.
Using Intentional Pairing and Peer Tutoring during Structured Literacy Activities in Inclusion Classrooms
Authors: Alexander K. Lea
Published: April 2024

More and more students with learning disabilities and other diverse learners are placed for instruction in general education classrooms, which often leaves teachers grappling to design successful peer interactions and literacy activities to meet the needs of all learners in their classrooms. As the shift is made to align literacy instruction to the Science of Reading (SoR), it is vital for teachers to provide relevant and engaging learning opportunities for all students. In this article, several strategies are offered for intentionally pairing diverse learners and their typically developing peers to provide successful structured peer tutoring experiences during literacy activities in inclusion classrooms.
CSI Launches Autism Mentorship STEM Program
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: April 2024

As the academic year got underway, Dr. Kristen Gillespie‐Lynch launched Making Mentors: Enhancing Access to STEM Careers for Autistic Youth through Mentorship Programs and Makerspaces. Gillespie‐Lynch, Associate Professor of Psychology and Director of Project REACH at the College of Staten Island (CSI), is partnering with the Education Development Center (EDC) and New York University's (NYU) Maker Program on this project, which is funded by a $1.3 million grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF).
What international students want will determine where they enroll
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: April 2024

In October 2023, the results of a Global Student Satisfaction Awards of 3,610 colleges and universities in 200 countries conducted by Studyportals, Unibuddy, and the British Council International English Language Testing System (IELTS) were published.
Ultrasonographic findings of a rare case of splenic rupture and torsion in a dog
Authors: Hummel Iris , Hubers Mike , Bosma Femke
Published: April 2024

A 7‐year‐old dog presented with acute lethargy, anorexia and vomiting. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a hypoechoic mass lesion in the left abdomen, characterised by a hilum‐like structure and intraparenchymal gas. A mild amount of hyperechoic peritoneal effusion was present. An apparently normal spleen was visualised, which was not associated with the described mass lesion. Surgery revealed a presumed previously ruptured and separated spleen. The caudal portion of the spleen was acutely torsed and there was a mild amount of peritoneal fluid present. Histopathology confirmed splenic torsion of the previously ruptured and separated caudal splenic segment. Bacterial culture of the peritoneal effusion after enrichment indicated Staphylococcus aureus. The patient recovered successfully and maintained excellent clinical conditions at 14‐month follow‐up. Splenic torsion of a ruptured splenic segment should be considered as a differential diagnosis for an emphysematous mass containing a hilum‐like structure in the abdomen in dogs.
Authoritarianism and majoritarian religious nationalism in contemporary India
Authors: Islam Maidul
Published: April 2024

This first article in the 2024 World Affairs special issue examines the Narendra Modi regime in India. Often acerbic political rhetoric is attached to official policies of the regime, creating fear and hopelessness within sections of the population. In this study, five sets of political activities of the government are evaluated. First, cultural authoritarianism became apparent with complicity toward “cow vigilantism,” slapping sedition charges against those showing political dissent, banning the history books of selected progressives, and stereotyping sections of the left and liberals as antinationals. Second, the demonetization policy was implemented without adequately following the economic protocols of the state. Third, the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Bill indicates the thwarting of democratic and federalist ideas. Fourth, the Citizenship Amendment Act and the National Register of Citizens exercise in Assam demonstrate the communal‐fascist worldview of the regime in profiling population groups. Finally, the sloppy handling of the COVID‐19 pandemic and the new Information Technology rules show the government's callous approach toward science and privacy. By analyzing such political activities, the article points out that majoritarian religious nationalism, coupled with authoritarianism, has been the ideological expression of the Modi regime, coexisting with both state surveillance and electoral democracy.
Keeper effect: Animals are more active in the presence of their caretakers
Authors: Pacheco Eridia , Krebs Bethany L. , Watters Jason V.
Published: April 2024

Zookeepers are the primary caretakers of animals, providing daily care through frequent and close interactions. From the animal's perspective, most of these daily interactions are likely to have positive outcomes. With consistent and reliable interactions, a human–animal relationship is expected to develop. Our aim of this study was to investigate if the presence of the primary keeper in the public viewing area of zoo exhibits impacts the behavior of animals. We observed the behavior of 15 individuals of six species in the presence and absence of their primary keeper. Overall, we observed animals being more active in their keeper's presence than when the keeper was not present. When we considered if the keeper was nearby around times of offered opportunities to animals (e.g., feeding, enrichment, and training), our results showed that animals were equally as active when the keeper was present before an opportunity and when no opportunity was offered. These equal activity levels imply that the keeper is a cue for a forthcoming event to the animals, which reflects anticipatory behavior. Overall, we demonstrate that keeper presence is an environmental context in which animals behave differently than in keeper absence.
Einleitung
Authors: Bogumil Jörg , Gehne David H. , Süß Louisa Anna
Published: April 2024

In der kommunalen Selbstverwaltung nehmen Bürgermeister als Gallionsfiguren eine besondere Rolle ein (vgl. Gehne 2012, S. 10; Bogumil und Holtkamp 2023, S. 118). Ihre institutionelle Position als „Führungskraft zwischen Bürgerschaft, Rat und Verwaltung“ (Gehne 2012) verbindet verschiedene Arenen der kommunalen Ebene. Zusätzlich verfügen Bürgermeister über eine große räumliche und soziale Nähe zu Bürgern und genießen in der Regel ein höheres Vertrauen in der Bevölkerung als weitere Akteure des politischen Systems (vgl. Gehne et al. 2019, S. 7). Während sich die politikwissenschaftliche Forschung immer wieder mit hauptamtlichen Bürgermeistern beschäftigt (vgl. Egner 2007; Gehne 2012; Heinelt et al. 2018a, b), bleiben ihre ehrenamtlichen Kollegen, die besonders im ländlichen Raum zu finden sind, außen vor. Der ehrenamtliche Bürgermeister ist ein unbekanntes Wesen.
Institutioneller Rahmen
Authors: Bogumil Jörg , Gehne David H. , Süß Louisa Anna
Published: April 2024

Der institutionelle Rahmen für ehrenamtliche Bürgermeister in den einzelnen Bundesländern zeigt in vielen Bereichen deutliche Varianzen auf. Dies betrifft die in den Kommunalverfassungen festgeschriebenen Aufgaben und Kompetenzen, das Wahlverfahren, die allgemeine Organisation der unteren kommunalen Ebene und die Eingliederung in zwischen der Gemeinde und dem Kreis angeordnete Verwaltungsgemeinschaften. Trotz dieser strukturellen Unterschiede zeigen sich in der Praxis Gemeinsamkeiten für die Ausübung des Amtes eines eBm, die in Kap. 5 beschrieben werden.
Zusammenfassung und Handlungsvorschläge
Authors: Bogumil Jörg , Gehne David H. , Süß Louisa Anna
Published: April 2024

6451 aller Gemeinden in Deutschland haben einen eBm, damit sind in der Fläche gesehen die deutliche Mehrheit der Bürgermeister (60 %) in Deutschland ehrenamtlich tätig. Es gibt allerdings klar sichtbare regionale Schwerpunkte der eBm in Deutschland im Norden und Nordosten (Schleswig-Holstein, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern und Teile von Niedersachsen) und im Südwesten vor allem in Rheinland-Pfalz und im Südosten in Bayern. Dagegen gibt es in Baden-Württemberg nur sehr wenige Gemeinden mit eBm und in drei Bundesländern (NRW, Hessen und im Saarland) gar keine.
The global B − L symmetry in the flavor-unified SU(N) theories
Authors: Chen Ning , Mao Ying-nan , Teng Zhaolong
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We study the origin of the global B − L symmetry in a class of flavor-unified theories with gauge groups of SU(N ≥ 6). In particular, we focus on the SU(8) theory which can minimally embed three-generational SM fermions non-trivially. A reformulation of the third law for the flavor sector proposed by Georgi is useful to manifest the underlying global symmetries. The ’t Hooft anomaly matching and the generalized neutrality conditions for Higgs fields play the key roles in defining the B − L symmetry. Based on the global B − L symmetry, we count the Higgs fields that can develop the VEVs and the massless sterile neutrinos in the SU(8) theory. We also prove that a global B − L symmetry can always be defined in any SU(N ≥ 6) theory when it is spontaneously broken to the SM gauge symmetry.
Bs → μ+μ− in a two-Higgs-doublet model with flavour-changing up-type Yukawa couplings
Authors: Lang Martin S. , Nierste Ulrich
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We present a Two-Higgs-Doublet Model in which the structure of the quark Yukawa matrices is governed by three spurions breaking the flavour symmetries of the quark Yukawa sector. The model naturally suppresses flavour-changing neutral current (FCNC) amplitudes in the down-type sector, but permits sizable FCNC couplings in the up sector. We calculate the branching ratio of Bs → μ+μ− to leading and next-to-leading order of QCD for the case with FCNC couplings of the heavy neutral Higgs bosons to up-type quarks and verify that all counterterms follow the pattern dictated by the spurion expansion of the Yukawa matrices. We find correlations between Bs → μ+μ−, b → sγ, and the Higgs masses. The $${B}_{s}-{\overline{B} }_{s}$$ mixing amplitude is naturally suppressed in the model but can probe a portion of the parameter space with very heavy Higgs bosons.
Predictive Dirac neutrino spectrum with strong CP solution in SU(5)L × SU(5)R unification
Authors: Babu K.S. , Mohapatra Rabindra N. , Thapa Anil
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We develop a grand unified theory of matter and forces based on the gauge symmetry SU(5)L × SU(5)R with parity interchanging the two factor groups. Our main motivation for such a construction is to realize a minimal GUT embedding of left-right symmetric models that provide a parity solution to the strong CP problem without the axion. We show how the gauge couplings unify with an intermediate gauge symmetry SU(3)cL × SU(2)2L × U(1)L × SU(5)R, and establish its consistency with proton decay constraints. The model correctly reproduces the observed fermion masses and mixings and leads to naturally light Dirac neutrinos with their Yukawa couplings suppressed by a factor MI/MG, the ratio of the intermediate scale to the GUT scale. We call this mechanism type II-Dirac seesaw. Furthermore, the model predicts δCP = ±(130.4±1.2)° and $${m}_{{\nu }_{1}}$$ = (4.8 – 8.4) meV for the Dirac CP phase and the lightest neutrino mass. We demonstrate how the model solves the strong CP problem via parity symmetry.
Demystifying the Emergence Proposal
Authors: Blumenhagen Ralph , Cribiori Niccolò , Gligovic Aleksandar , Paraskevopoulou Antonia
Published: April 2024

Abstract

We revisit the Emergence Proposal in the vector multiplet moduli space of type IIA N = 2 supersymmetric string vacua in four dimensions, for which the string tree-level prepotential and the string one-loop correction are exactly known via mirror symmetry. We argue that there exists an exact notion of emergence, according to which these four-dimensional couplings can be computed exactly in any asymptotic limit in field space. In such limits, a perturbative quantum gravity theory emerges, whose fundamental degrees of freedom include all complete infinite towers of states with typical mass scale not larger than the species scale. For a decompactification limit, this picture is closely related to and in fact motivated by the computation of Gopakumar-Vafa invariants. In addition, in the same limit our results suggest that the emergent theory will also contain asymptotically tensionless wrapped NS5-branes.