bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Catalytic Upgrading of Rice Straw Bio-Oil via Esterification in Supercritical Ethanol Over Bimetallic Catalyst Supported on Rice Straw Biochar
Authors: Ibrahim Alhassan , Elsayed Islam , Hassan El Barbary
Published: December 2023

This research explores the enhancement of bio-oil quality through upgrading with the magnetic bimetallic oxide (CuO-Fe3O4) catalysts supported on the activated rice straw biochar (AcB). These catalysts were employed in a supercritical ethanol-based upgrading process. Various characterization techniques, including elemental analysis, XRD, BET, TGA, and SEM, were utilized to characterize the prepared catalyst. The study revealed significant improvements in the physical characteristics and chemical composition of the bio-oil, with higher heating value (HHV) increasing from 21.3 to 32.1 MJ/kg. Esterification and transesterification were identified as key reactions contributing to this improvement. Notably, the pH of bio-oil increased from 4.3 (raw bio-oil) to 5.63 (after upgrading), signifying reduced acidity. The analysis of the bio-oil's chemical composition highlighted a decrease in oxygen content and an increase in carbon and hydrogen content. At the optimum conditions, the application of supercritical ethanol proved to be an efficient method for enhancing the bio-oil's properties. A crucial transformation occurred during the upgrading process and more than 90% % of carboxylic acids were converted into esters, primarily ethyl acetate at the optimal conditions. This study has demonstrated the effective enhancement of raw bio-oil from rice straw through the utilization of carbon-based bimetallic oxide catalysts in a supercritical upgrading procedure.
Entropy of Difference
Authors: Nardone Pasquale , Sonnino Giorgio
Published: December 2023

{Here, we propose a new tool to estimate the complexity of a time series: the entropy of difference (ED). The method is based solely on the sign of the difference between neighbouring values in a time series. This makes it possible to describe the signal as efficiently as prior proposed parameters such as permutation entropy (PE) or modified permutation entropy (mPE), but (1) reduces the size of the sample that is necessary to estimate the parameter value, and (2) enables the use of the Kullback-Leibler divergence to estimate the "distance" between the time series data and random signals.
Dillema of Multi-Platform Ride-Hailing Drivers in Yogyakarta: Between Economic Demands and Psychological Impact in Achieving Well-Being
Authors: Nurrahmad Daffa , Rahmasari Salma , Pradana Doni , Utomo Syahriza , Putri Mutiara , Afandi Ardian
Published: December 2023

Online transportation services, initially presented as an innovative employment approach by categorizing workers as 'independent contractors', have come to be recognized for their exploitative nature. The notion of 'flexibility' suggests that workers have the autonomy to tailor their hours and location according to their income goals. However, this disguises the true situation for informal workers who lack rights and protections. This study delves into these issues from a psychological standpoint to uncover the mental and emotional interplay between the motivations and exploitation experienced by online drivers affiliated with multiple platforms. The study adopts a qualitative methodology with a phenomenological lens. Data was gathered through thorough interviews, observations, and document analysis, with Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) employed as the data analysis technique. The study's participants were five male multi-platform online drivers from the Special Region of Yogyakarta, ranging in age from 18 to 64, and had been associated with at least two platforms for more than a year. The findings highlight two primary themes: firstly, the decision to join multiple platforms is chiefly driven by economic reasons, including a decline in orders, daily earnings, bonus incomes, and the conclusion of the initial profitable phase. Secondly, the exploitative conditions are linked to the platforms' algorithms, which exert control and influence the psychological state of the drivers. Nonetheless, the participants have developed effective strategies to manage fatigue, anxiety, and stress.
Effects of Chronic Sleep-Restriction on Transcriptional Regulation of SIRT1 Signaling in Mice White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Rendine Marco , Cocci Paolo , Vivo Luisa de , Bellesi Michele , Palermo Francesco Alessandro
Published: December 2023

A rather large portion of the population is sleep restricted in modern society, either by necessity or by choice. Epidemiological studies have observed that lack of sleep and poor sleep quality are associated with several pathological states, ranging from neuropsychiatric to metabolic diseases. To date, only a few studies have investigated the molecular consequences of sleep loss at the level of peripheral organs involved in maintaining metabolic homeostasis such as the white adipose tissue (WAT). From a molecular point of view, two key transcriptional regulators of WAT function are sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors gamma (PPARγ). Both genes interact with specific targets involved in multiple metabolic processes, including adipocyte differentiation, browning and lipid metabolism. In this study, we assessed the effects of chronic sleep restriction (CSR) on the interplay between SIRT1 and PPARγ in mediating WAT metabolism in young adult mice. We found that CSR up-regulated expression of SIRT1 and some of its transcriptional targets involved in lipid metabolism and mitochondrial functions of adipocytes. Results suggest that CSR induces SIRT1-mediated metabolic remodeling of WAT to support an increased energy demand due to sleep loss.
Calculation of Sommerfeld Integrals in Dipole Radiation Problems
Authors: Sautbekova Merey , Sautbekov Seil , Baisalova Kuralay , Pshikov Mustahim
Published: December 2023

The article proposes asymptotic methods for calculating Sommerfeld integrals, which enable us to calculate the integral using the expansion of a function into an infinite power series at the saddle point, where the role of a rapidly oscillating function under the integral can be fulfilled either by an exponential or by its product by the Hankel function. The proposed types of Sommerfeld integrals are generalized on the basis of integral representations of the Hertz radiator fields in the form of the inverse Hankel transform with the subsequent replacement of the Bessel function by the Hankel function. It is shown that the numerical values of the saddle point are complex. During integration, auxiliary or so-called standard integrals, which contain the main features of the integrand function, were used. As a demonstration of the accuracy of the technique, a previously known asymptotic formula for the Hankel functions was obtained in the form of an infinite series. The proposed method for calculating Sommerfeld integrals can be useful in solving the half-space Sommerfeld problem. An example is the expression in the form of an infinite series for the magnetic field of reflected waves, obtained directly through the Sommerfeld integral (SI).
CSF-1R in Cancer: More than a Myeloid Cell Receptor
Authors: Cersosimo Francesca , Lonardi Silvia , Ulivieri Cristina , Morrione Andrea , Vermi William , Giordano Antonio , Giurisato Emanuele
Published: December 2023

Colony-stimulating factor 1 receptor (CFS-1R) is a myeloid receptor with a crucial role in monocyte survival and differentiation. Its overexpression is associated with aggressive tumor characterized by an immunosuppressive microenvironment and poor prognosis. CSF-1R ligands, IL-34 and M-CSF, are produced by many cells in the tumor microenvironment (TME), suggesting a key role for the receptor in the crosstalk between tumor, immune and stromal cells in the TME. Recently, CSF-1R expression was reported at the cell membrane of cancer cell from different solid tumors, capturing the interest of various research group interested in investigating the role of this receptor in non-myeloid cells. This review summarizes current data available on the expression and activity of CSF-1R in different tumor types. Notably, CSF-1R+ cancer cells have been shown to produce CSF-1R ligands, indicating that CSF-1R signaling is positively regulated in autocrine manner in cancer cells. Recent research demonstrated that CSF-1R signaling enhances cell transformation by supporting tumor cell proliferation, invasion, stemness and drug resistance. In addition, this review covers recent therapeutic strategies, including monoclonal antibodies and small molecule inhibitors, targeting the CSF-1R and designed to block the pro-oncogenic role of CSF-1R in cancer cell.
AIBP: A New Safeguard against Glaucomatous Neuroinflammation
Authors: Choi Seunghwan , Choi Soo-Ho , Bastola Tonking , Park Young Gun , Oh Jonghyun , Kim Keun-Young , Hwang Sinwoo , Miller Yury I. , Ju Won-Kyu
Published: December 2023

Glaucoma is a group of ocular diseases that causes irreversible blindness worldwide and is characterized by a multifactorial degeneration of optic nerve and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs), leading to vision loss. One of the significant risk factors in glaucoma pathogenesis is glia-driven neuroinflammation. Impairment of mitochondrial dynamics and bioenergetics is associated with glaucomatous neurodegeneration and is linked to neuroinflammation. Apolipoprotein A-I binding protein (AIBP) binds to toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) and facilitates the removal of excess cholesterol from the plasma membrane in activated cells, suggesting the regulation of cholesterol-driven inflammation by inhibiting the TLR4-associated lipid rafts. AIBP is localized in mitochondria and regulates mitophagy by ubiquitination of mitofusin 1 and 2. We observed elevated intraocular pressure-induced AIBP deficiency in glaucomatous neurodegeneration. We also observed that AIBP deficiency activated TLR4 in Müller glia, triggered mitochondrial dysfunction in both RGCs and Müller glia and impaired visual function. In mouse models of glaucoma, AIBP treatment protects RGCs by reducing inflammatory responses. Here, our review focuses on investigating the role of AIBP in the retina and examining the underlying mechanism by which AIBP contributes to the pathogenesis of glaucoma, aiming to provide new insight into the therapeutic potential for the treatment of glaucoma.
Causal Analysis of Wood Performance Based on Liang-Kleeman Information Flow
Authors: Huang Jiahui , Kuang Zhufang , Ma Jingchao , Fang Yixuan
Published: December 2023

To accurately identify high-quality functional wood with superior mechanical properties and enhance its durability, it is imperative to understand the relationships between the physical and mechanical attributes of diverse wood types. Presently, there exist issues related to accuracy, efficiency, and differentiation in studying these performance correlations. The Liang Kleeman (L-K) information flow theory, a causative analytical approach rooted in fundamental physics principles, offers swift computational capabilities. Furthermore, the coefficient of variation in L-K information flow quantitatively gauges the intensity of causal effects. Therefore, this article adopts a causal artificial intelligence perspective and introduces a wood performance analysis method based on L-K information flow.This study focuses on four Chinese fir varieties, including fast-growing Chinese fir (YKS), red heart Chinese fir (CSH, XXH), and iron heart Chinese fir (XXT). By computing and comparing variation coefficients of L-K information flow for various physical properties and their impact on mechanical properties, causal relationships between these properties are elucidated. These findings are then applied to predict wood mechanical properties, achieving a remarkable maximum accuracy of 90%.In the future, these findings will prove invaluable for the selection of high-quality wood and for improving the manufacturing process to prolong the service life of functionalized wood.
Dynamic Syntax Tree Model for Enhanced Source Code Representation
Authors: Roy Jaden , Patel Rodolfo , Nguyen Pasir , Simon Sartran
Published: December 2023

The art of representing source code is pivotal in numerous programming analysis applications. Recent strides in neural networks have marked notable successes in this realm. However, the peculiar structural characteristics inherent in programming languages have not been fully exploited in existing models. While neural models based on abstract syntax trees (ASTs) adeptly manage the tree-like nature of source codes, they fall short in discerning the diverse substructural nuances within programs. This paper introduces the Dynamic Syntax Tree Model (DSTM), an innovative approach that fuses various neural network modules into tree architectures tailored to the specific AST of the input. Distinct from preceding tree-based neural models, DSTM adeptly discerns the semantic variances across different AST substructures. We validate DSTM through rigorous testing in program classification and code clone detection, outperforming contemporary methods and demonstrating the benefits of harnessing intricate source code structures.
IMPLEMENTATION OF PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING MULTIMEDIA WITH FIND AND SORT QR CODE GAMES TO IMPROVE STUDENT'S COMPUTATIONAL THINKING SKILLS
Authors: Al Husaeni Dwi Fitria , Rahman Eka Fitrajaya , Piantari Erna
Published: December 2023

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of using and developing problem-based learning multimedia with find and sort QR code games to improve students' computational thinking (CT) skills in learning object-oriented programming using a web-based digital platform. The Research and Development (R&D) method and One-Group Pretest-Posttest design was used in this study. The subjects of this study were 35 students of SMK Negeri 1 Cimahi, Indonesia. There are three stages in conducting research 1) analysis of problems, 2) learning multimedia development, and 3) evaluation. The findings show there is an increase in students' CT skills after implementing the find and sort QR Code Game problem-based learning multimedia during the learning process. Student learning outcomes have increased from 45.71 (pretest) to 89.50 (posttest). The average increase in student learning outcomes occurred significantly based on the results of the t-test. In addition, the students' CT average score increased from 65.43 (pretest) to 85.29 (posttest). The order of increasing the CT component based on the n-gain value is 1) abstraction (0.66); 2) pattern recognition (0.63); 3) decomposition (0.48); and 4) algorithm design (0.39). Student responses to multimedia learning in this study were obtained very well with a score of 84.95%.
SHORT-TERM FORECASTING DAILY ELECTRICITY LOADS USING SEASONAL ARIMA PATTERNS OF GENERATION UNITS AT PT. PLN (PERSERO) TARAKAN CITY
Authors: Mado Ismit , Budiman Achmad , Triwiyatno Aris
Published: December 2023

Electrical power requirements at load centers tend to change over time, so the State Electricity Company (PLN) as a provider of electrical energy must be able to predict electrical load requirements every day. The city of Tarakan as a reference center in the northern region of Indonesia is developing rapidly. Along with this growth, the need for electric power is of course also increasing, so we must be able to provide an economical and reliable electric power supply system. This research aims to predict the electricity load at PT. PLN (Persero) Tarakan City. The author will carry out short-term forecasting using time series data in the form of daily electrical power usage data using the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) method. The ARIMA method or often called the Box-Jenkins technique shows that this method is suitable for predicting a number of variables quickly, simply and cheaply because it only requires variable data to be predicted. Analysis based on the Box-Jenkins time series taking into account the influence of seasonal patterns. The prediction results show that the data contains seasonal elements with the best model being SARIMA  with a MAPE of 3 percent.
Ripple effect: the SEC’s major questions doctrine problem
Authors: Donovan M.
Published: December 2023

Objective: to elaborate a new standard for assessing the level of decentralization of cryptoassets in the USA.

Methods: dialectical approach to cognition of social phenomena, allowing to analyze them in historical development and functioning in the context of the totality of objective and subjective factors, which predetermined the following research methods: formal-logical and sociological.

Results: Crypto assets and blockchain technology have the potential to create unprecedented equitable access to financial institutions. Despite this potential, there is a robust debate regarding federal agencies' jurisdiction over the novel asset class. Without clear statutory guidelines, federal agencies have been forced to resolve this debate through the rulemaking process. However, agency rules regarding jurisdiction over crypto assets could be scrutinized by a reviewing court under the major questions doctrine. Once highly deferential to agency rules, the U.S. Supreme Court in recent terms has repeatedly struck down agency rules when an agency claims an unheralded power to regulate an issue of deep economic and political significance. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) arguably claims such a power by interpreting most crypto assets to be "investment contracts" and thus under SEC jurisdiction. But although a decision on major questions doctrine grounds in the high-profile case SEC v. Ripple Labs, Inc. could help clarify how we classify crypto assets, it leaves many jurisdictional questions unanswered and could complicate the application of the SEC's disclosure regime to risky crypto asset offerings.

Scientific novelty: This Note argues that Congress should pass the Lummis-Gillibrand Responsible Financial Innovation Act to create joint jurisdiction between the SEC and the Commodities Futures Trading Commission over most crypto asset offerings. This may help to balance consumer protection and innovation at the frontier of financial innovation. The author also endorses a new standard to evaluate whether a crypto asset is sufficiently decentralized to further clarify the SEC's role in regulating crypto asset offerings.

Practical significance: the main provisions and conclusions of the article can be used in scientific, pedagogical and law enforcement activities when considering the issues related to the activity of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Effect of curing conditions on mechanical properties of benzoxazine resin-based unidirectional strip materials
Authors: Tian Yang , Sun Zhongwen , Sun Jiehui , Zhu Jinhai , Guo Yuan
Published: December 2023

Because of the characteristics of high temperature resistance, high thermal stability, no component overflow after curing, Benzoxazine resin-based composite is widely used in the high temperature working area such as the rear section of the domestic C919 large passenger aircraft involved in the development process. In this paper, the influence of curing process conditions such as curing temperature, curing pressure and holding time on the mechanical properties of benzoxazine resin-based composites was evaluated by using the autoclave curing process, in order to select the optimal curing process conditions, and the hygrothermal aging property of the material at 71℃ was also evaluated. The results show that the curing temperature has little effect on the compressive strength and shear strength. With the decrease of curing pressure, the compressive and shear properties of the materials decreased slightly. With the increase of holding time, the compression strength increases slightly, the compression modulus decreases slightly, and the shear strength changes little. Under the condition of 71℃, the reduction of interlaminar shear strength is less than 10%, so the material has excellent performance in the aspect of resistance to damp and anti-aging property.
Upcycling acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene Vitrimer ‘in melt’ using a dynamic crosslinker
Authors: Bose Suryasarathi
Published: December 2023

The perception of a sustainable plastic closed-loop circular economy hinges on the transformation of post-consumer recycled (PCR) commodity plastics. Among those, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), a widely utilized engineering plastic, can be economically and efficiently upcycled to mark a significant step forward. Very few concrete solutions have been proposed so far for adopting end-of-life ABS into reusable products, mainly due to deterioration in mechanical properties of PCR ABS after subsequent recycling. Our approach introduces a distinctive strategy of creating durable and recyclable dynamic covalent adaptable network (CAN) termed as PCR ABS Vitrimers, all achieved through a melt-based process which holds promise for industrial viability and economic feasibility. In a first of its kind, a designer bio-based crosslinker, imine containing castor oil (iCO) having dynamic imine linkages as CAN was synthesized to form PCR ABS Vitrimers ‘in melt’ resulting in an upcycled ABS with 15% and 19% improvement in ultimate tensile strength and Young’s modulus respectively, in the Vitrimers. Our designer giant crosslinker, besides offering a transient network imparts re-processibility to the formed PCR ABS Vitrimers via melt with better mechanical integrity. This research endeavours to tackle a long-standing obstacle in upcycling PCR ABS in its melt state by producing a more robust, resilient, and solvent-resistant material derived from PCR ABS waste.
Unusual platinum(III) valence state stabilized through the iodide-bridged three-center four-electron bonding
Authors: Wakizaka Masanori , Tanaka Hisaaki , Takaishi Shinya , Yamashita Masahiro
Published: December 2023

One of the goals in synthetic chemistry is to obtain compounds featuring unusual valence states that are stable under ambient conditions. At present, stabilizing unusual Pt(III) states is considered difficult, except through direct Pt–Pt bonding such as that in platinum-blues or organometallization using bulky ligands. Pt(III) stabilization is also very difficult in halogen-bridged metal complex chains (MX-Chains). Herein, the iodide-bridged Pt(III) dimer compound [Pt2(en)4I3]I3 (3) (en = ethylenediamine), which is prepared by iodine oxidation of [PtII(en)2] (1), has been successfully synthesized and characterized. This compound is stable and is obtained as diamond-shaped single crystals with a lustrous emerald-green color under reflected light and a red color under transmitted light. The two Pt centers are crystallographically equivalent and can be assigned as Pt(III). Density functional theory calculations reveal that the Pt(III) state is stabilized by the three-center four-electron (3c-4e) bonding in the Pt–I–Pt core (dz2–pz–dz2), in addition to the very strong antiferromagnetic state. This type of bonding stabilization does not appear in MX-Chains. The experimental polarized reflection spectra show the Pt(III) state character and are in agreement with the simulated spectra. The stabilization of Pt(III) through a 3c-4e bonding mechanism is novel; thus, this work provides new insight for stabilizing the unusual Pt(III) state.
How digital finance impacts listed companies’ green innovation in China: A product market perspective
Authors: Wang Qiong , Wang Shangyi , Wang Chengyuan , HU Dan
Published: December 2023

We empirically test whether and how digital finance impact green innovation utilizing the data of Chinese listed companies over the period from 2011 to 2020. The results show: a) digital finance has a positive impact on green innovation, b) improving consumer demand and strengthening market competition are two important influence channels, c) customer concentration and corporate social responsibility are two important moderating variables that affect the aforementioned product market mechanisms, d) the positive impact of digital finance is more prominent within state-owned enterprises, companies with high financial risks, economically underdeveloped regions, and low-polluting industries. This research provides insights for China and similar economies on how to leverage the significant role of digital finance in achieving their net-zero-carbon targets.
JEL codes: G23; O31; Q56
Efficacy of 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) and Low Molecular Weight Heparin (LMWH) in high-risk pediatric retinal detachment; Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Nasr Mohamed Kamal Hussein Nasr , Abdelhadi Ahmed Mahmoud , Bessa Amr Saad Mohamed , Ibrahim Tamer Moussa
Published: December 2023

Background:
Pediatric rhegmatogenous retinal detachments (PRRDs) are complex, rare occurrences and are often related to trauma or congenital abnormalities. Children often do not recognize or report symptoms of retinal detachment. Thus at presentation, PRRD is typically advanced often with macular involvement, proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), chronic duration, and poor visual acuity. Because 5-FU and LMWH are effective in different aspects in the PVR process, it was believed that a syngergistic approach to the prevention of PVR would be advantageous.
Methods:
After informed consent, children under 14 years of age with high-risk PRRD underwent pars plana vitrectomy and silicone oil injection with scleral buckle divided into 2 groups in prospective randomized trial. Group A received intraoperative infusion of 5-FU (200 µg/ml) and LMWH (5 IU/ml), group B received infusion of normal saline. Primary outcome was occurrence of recurrent PRRD within 12 weeks, secondary outcomes were occurrence of PVR, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), number and timing of secondary procedures within 12 weeks.
Results:
The study included 42 eyes of 41 patients, 21 in group A and 21 in group B, the duration of PRRD ranged from 0.5-7 months in group A and 0.25-5 months in group B.The rate of recurrent PRRD was higher in group B 33% compared to 19% in group A (p = 0.292). The mean timing of occurrence of recurrent PRRD was 9.5 ± 5 weeks in group A compared to 2.86 ± 2.41 weeks in group B (p = 0.042), more patients in group B ended up with more advanced PVR (p = 0.038), BCVA was hand movement (HM) only in all cases preoperatively and improved to HM-0.3 Snellen in group A compared to light perception (PL)-0.1Snellen in group B (p = 0.035), there was no difference in any of secondary procedures but with later timing in group A 9.71 ± 3.73 weeks than in group B 4.0 ± 2.83 weeks (p = 0.042).
Conclusion:
This study concluded that the use of the 5-FU and LMWH combination in high risk PRRD resulted in lower rate of postoperative PVR, later recurrence of PRRD and better final BCVA.
Identifiers: Trial registration number NCT06166914 Unique Protocol ID: 9163209 date 21/10/2021
Coordinated regulation of DMSP demethylation and cleavage in abundant marine bacteria
Authors: Todd Jonathan , Fu Huihui , Wang Ming-Chen , Liu Jia-Rong , Wang Zhi-Qing , Li Fei-Fei , Qin Qi-Long , Wan Jin-Jian , Teng Zhao-Jie , Zhang Wei-Peng , Li Chun-Yang , Zhang Yu-Zhong , Zhu Xiao-Yu
Published: December 2023

Dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) catabolism by ubiquitous marine Roseobacters is important in global carbon and sulfur cycling, chemotaxis, and climate-active gas production. Many Roseobacters contain competing DMSP demethylation and cleavage pathways, the latter generating the climate-cooling gas dimethylsulfide (DMS). The mechanism partitioning flux through these pathways, referred to as “the switch”, is unknown. Here, we identify a FadR family transcriptional regulator “DmdR” in Roseobacters that represses transcription of the DMSP demethylation gene dmdA and acuI, central to DMSP cleavage pathways, under low intracellular DMSP levels. Increased DMSP levels induces DMSP cleavage and accumulation of the toxic intermediate and AcuI substrate acryloyl-CoA. DmdR binds acryloyl-CoA as its effector and derepresses dmdA-acuI transcription. Roseobacterial DmdR-dependent regulation, together with transcriptional and kinetic regulation of DMSP cleavage, likely ensures cellular DMSP concentrations that allow its antistress functions and accelerated DMSP demethylation and catabolism of toxic cleavage pathway intermediates at higher DMSP levels. In other abundant marine bacteria that lack dmdA, e.g., Oceanospirillales, DmdR is predicted to still regulate acuI transcription and, thus, acryloyl-CoA catabolism/detoxification. DmdR regulation is widespread in Earth’s oceans and their margins and is an important step in global biogeochemical cycling and climate-active gas production.
Towards carbon-neutral and clean combustion with hydroformylated Fischer-Tropsch (HyFiT) fuels
Authors: Bardow André , Voelker Simon , Groll Niklas , Bachmann Marvin , Mueller Leonard , Neumann Marcel , Kossioris Theodoros , Muthyala Paul , Lehrheuer Bastian , Hofmeister Marius , Vorholt Andreas , Schmitz Katharina , Pischinger Stefan , Leitner Walter
Published: December 2023

The transition towards clean transport requires energy carriers tailored to their application. Promising energy carriers for heavy-duty transportation are synthetic fuels. Here, we introduce hydroformylated Fischer-Tropsch (HyFiT) fuels designed to simultaneously address the four key challenges of current synthetic fuels: (1) HyFiT-fuel production closes the carbon cycle in a flexible way by employing either biomass or carbon dioxide as feedstock, while being scalable through mature technologies. (2) HyFiT-fuels are shown experimentally to comply with global fuel standards. Material compatibility is demonstrated for two standard sealing materials, enabling the retrofit of today’s vehicle fleets. (3) Vehicle testing in a light commercial van shows that HyFiT-fuels substantially reduce combustion-induced particulate matter and nitrogen oxides. (4) A well-to-wheel life cycle assessment finds that HyFiT-fuels enable the transition to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, showing simultaneously a favorable profile in a range of other environmental parameters, and can thereby complement electrification for heavy-duty long-haul transportation.
Barriers to Substance Use Treatment for Individuals with Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Hudson Joseph Robert , Manuel Jennifer
Published: December 2023

Background
Although residential substance use treatment has been shown to improve substance use and other outcomes, most with substance use disorders (SUDs) never seek professional treatment. Much research has been done on the barriers to seeking treatment. However, greater understanding is needed of the similarities and differences in the perceptual barriers to treatment held by clients and staff.
Methods
This paper (1) identifies and compares adult client vs. staff perceptions of barriers to substance use treatment, and (2) compares perceptions between an urban vs. rural treatment setting. Secondary analysis of transcripts of semi-structured interviews with clients (n = 61) and staff (n = 37) from a residential substance use treatment program in New York (urban) and in Virginia (rural). Transcriptions of interviews were formally analyzed by two analysts using framework analysis.
Results
The major results indicate that personal barriers (83%) were cited more frequently than interpersonal (15%) and structural barriers (24%). Staff were more likely to cite interpersonal barriers (19% vs. 11%) and structural barriers (29% vs. 20%) than were clients.
Conclusions
These findings further demonstrate that personal culpability and self-blame are often felt by those with SUDs and this sentiment is often reinforced by treatment providers. Interventions are needed that can reduce the stigma of SUD’s, resulting in a shift away from the perception that barriers to treatment exist primarily at the personal level.
Trial registration:
The Office of Research Subjects Protection at Virginia Commonwealth University (approval #HM15020) and the University Committee on Activities Involving Human Subjects at New York University (approval #FY2016-56) approved the study procedures for the Virginia and New York studies, respectively.
The ManhattAnt: Identification, distribution, and colony structure of a new pest in New York City, Lasius emarginatus
Authors: Kennett Samantha M , Seifert Bernard , Dunn Robert R , Pierson Todd W , Penick Clint A
Published: December 2023

A new ant species was discovered in the heart of New York City in 2011, which garnered national headlines and created the memorable nickname “ManhattAnt.” New York City is one of the oldest and largest cities in North America and has been the site of introduction for some of North America’s most damaging invasive pests. Nevertheless, there has been little follow up research on the ManhattAnt since its discovery, and it has yet to be formally identified. Here we use genetic and morphological approaches to confirm the identity of the ManhattAnt and characterize its introduced range and colony structure. Results from genetic analyses placed the ManhattAnt within the Lasius emarginatus species complex, and morphological comparisons ruled out closely related species to identify the ManhattAnt as the European ant L. emarginatus with 93–99% certainty depending on the nest sample. Since its initial discovery, the ManhattAnt has become one of the most common ants in New York City and has spread at a rate of 2km/yr into New Jersey and onto Long Island. Based on the climate it inhabits within its native range, L. emarginatus could expand to cover much of the eastern United states from Massachusetts to Georgia. Although many successful invasive ants display supercoloniality with little aggression between neighboring nests, we found no evidence that L. emarginatus colonies in New York City are supercolonial. Continued monitoring of L. emarginatus is warranted, as it has been increasingly reported as an indoor pest and is known to form mutualisms with honeydew producing pests of street trees.
Application of 3D Bioprinting Technology Apply to Assessing Dangguiniantongtang (DGNT) Decoctions in Arthritis
Authors: Liang zhichao , Han yunxi , Chen tao , Wang jinwu , Lin kaili , Yuan luying , Li xuefei , Xu hao , Wang tengteng , Liu yang , Xiao lianbo , liang qianqian
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was to develop a three-dimensional (3D) cell model in order to evaluate the effectiveness of a traditional Chinese medicine decoction in the treatment of arthritis. Chondrocytes (ATDC5) and osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1) were 3D printed separately using methacryloyl gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel bioinks to mimic the natural 3D cell environment. Both cell types showed good biocompatibility in GelMA. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was added to the cell models to create inflammation models, which resulted in increased expression of inflammatory factors IL-1β, TNF-α, iNOS, and IL-6, and decreased expression of cell functional genes such as Collagen II (COLII), transcription factor SOX-9 (Sox9), Aggrecan, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), RUNX family transcription factor 2 (Runx2), Collagen I (COLI), Osteopontin (OPN), and bone morphogenetic protein-2 (BMP-2). The created inflammation model was then used to evaluate the effectiveness of Dangguiniantongtang (DGNT) decoctions. The results showed that DGNT reduced the expression of inflammatory factors and increased the expression of functional genes in the cell model, which was consistent with subsequent animal experiments. In summary, this study established a 3D cell model to assess the effectiveness of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) decoctions, characterized the gene expression profile of the inflammatory state model, and provided a practical reference for future research on TCM efficacy evaluation for arthritis treatment.
Rapid, Sensitive, and Selective "ON-OFF" Detection of Fe3+ Ions Using Novel Acetalophanes and Their Applications in Real Samples
Authors: Sobhani Leila , Darabi Hossein Reza , Atasbili Leila , Aghapoor Kioumars , Rastgar Saeed , Jadidi Khosrow
Published: December 2023

Three novel acetalophanes 1a-c have been designed, synthesized and characterized. The receptors 1b-c, featuring bulky anthracene groups, displayed significant selectivity for Fe3+ ions, resulting in a turn-off fluorescence mode in a DMF-buffer solution. Conversely, the non-steric probe 1a could serve as a versatile sensor for the simultaneous detection of Fe3+ and Cu2+ ions in MeOH-buffer solution. The sensing mechanism for the capability of 1a was demonstrated to be different, as evidenced by the addition of cyanide ions. The probes with Fe3+ exhibited a sensing mechanism that resulted in the deprotection of acetals to the corresponding starting materials, as confirmed by 1H NMR, IR spectra and TLC analysis. The attractive features of these practical and efficient sensors are selectivity, sensitivity (limit of detection = 0.15 µM by 1a, 0.16 µM by 1b and 0.14 µM by 1c), rapid response (less than 5 seconds). The on-site monitoring of various real samples, including well water, apricot, and green tea, proved to be successful for the quantitative and cost-effective detection of Fe3+. The method demonstrated good precision, even in the presence of other interfering materials.
Identification and characterization of human retinal stem cells capable of retinal regeneration
Authors: Su Jianzhong , Liu Hui , Ma Yunlong , Gao Na , Zhou Yijun , Li gen , Zhu Qunyan , Liu Xiaoyu , Li Shasha , Deng Chunyu , Chen Cheng , Yang Yuhe , Ren Qing , Hu Huijuan , Cai Yaoyao , Chen Ming , Xue Yuanchao , Zhang Kang , Qu Jia
Published: December 2023

Human retinal stem cells hold great promise in regenerative medicine, yet their existence and characteristics remain elusive. Here, we preformed single-cell multi-omics and spatial transcriptomics of human fetal retinas and uncovered a novel cell subpopulation, human neural retinal stem-like cells (hNRSCs), distinct from RPE stem-like cell and traditional retinal progenitor cells. These hNRSCs reside in the peripheral retina within the ciliary marginal zone, exhibiting substantial self-renewal and differentiation potential. We conducted single-cell and spatial transcriptomic analysis of human retinal organoids (hROs), and revealed hROs have remarkable similar hNRSCs consistent with fetal retina, capable of regenerating all retinal cells. Furthermore, we identified crucial transcription factors, notably MECOM, governing hNRSC commitment to neural retinogenesis and regulating hROs regeneration. Transplanting hRO-derived hNRSCs into the rd10 mouse of rapid retinal degeneration significantly repairs the degenerated retina and restores visual function. Together, our work identifies and characterizes a unique category of retinal stem cells from human retinas, underscoring their regenerative potential and promise for transplantation therapy.
Identifying the priorities for supervision by lived experience researchers: A Q sort study
Authors: Gupta Veenu , Eames Catrin , Bryant Alison , Greenhill Beth , Golding Laura , Day Jennifer , Fisher Peter
Published: December 2023

Background
Lived experience researchers draw on their lived experiences to inform and interpret their research. They bring complex service user and survivor histories to their work and must manage their health conditions and the interplay of their lived experiences with the research, population, and data they work with, as well as the more general challenges of being a researcher. They must navigate these dilemmas in addition to queries over their competency, due to issues relating to intersectionality and epistemic injustice. This justifies a motivation to better understand the experiences of lived experience researchers and develop appropriate and personalised supervision based on their preferences and needs.
Method
Q methodology was used to identify a collection of identity-related issues that impact lived experience researchers during PhD research. These 54 statements were presented to 18 lived experience researchers to prioritise as topics to explore to understand their subjective needs from supervision.
Results
Three distinct factors were found following an inverted factor analysis: Factor 1: Strengthening my identity, skills, growth, and empowerment; Factor 2: Exploring the emotional and relational link I have with the research and Factor 3: Navigating my lived and professional experiences practically and emotionally. The findings suggest that there are three types of lived experience researchers, each with different needs from supervision, suggesting the population is heterogeneous.
Conclusions
The research identified a deeper understanding of the subjective needs of lived experience researchers and highlights the importance of personalised supervision according to their individual needs, and preferences for supervision. The findings reinforce the importance of integrating a clinical dimension into supervision to support the needs of each lived experience researcher.
Time-Multiplexing Control of Boost Side Interleaved Multiport DC-DC Converter
Authors: Bansal Rushiv , Bansal Rishabh , Kumar Mayank
Published: December 2023

Multiport dc-dc converters (MPDC) can simultaneously convert the supply voltage to different levels. Multiport dc-dc converters are readily used in various industrial and commercial applications, such as UPS systems, electric vehicles, etc. For high-power applications, to improve the performance and efficiency of converters, the interleaving technique is used. For low-power applications, interleaved multiport dc-dc converters maintain ample power density in the system. This research paper showcases a bidirectional boost-side interleaved multiport dc-dc converter (BIMC). The converter presented provides two different voltage outputs, one stepped up and another stepped down. Through interleaving, the ripple in the input current has been reduced. The converter has become more fault-tolerant and can deliver basic operation even after a transistor failure. Through the bidirectional operation, power can flow from the buck side to the boost end of the converter in the absence of an input. Mathematical formulations, current, and voltage waveforms are derived and shown for both the outputs of the converter, i.e., the boost and buck outputs. Closed-loop control has been designed in order to achieve constant voltage operation. Simulation and hardware results are provided. A comparative study with the conventional MPDC has also been provided.
Recent results on proton charge radius and polarizabilities
Authors: Gao Haiyan , Zhou Jingyi
Published: December 2023

The proton charge radius and nucleon electromagnetic polarizabilities are fundamental properties probing the electromagnetic structure of the nucleons. Proton charge radius is directly related to the proton charge distribution and the nucleon electromagnetic polarizabilities characterize the response of the charge/magnetic constituents inside the nucleon to external electromagnetic fields. A precise understanding of these quantities is crucial not only for understanding how Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) works in the non-perturbative QCD region but also for bound state Quantum Electrodynamics (QED) calculations of atomic energy levels. We discuss the experimental approaches employed in the recent decades to determine the proton charge radius and nucleon electromagnetic polarizabilities. We summarize the present status of the proton charge radius puzzle and polarizabilities measurements. Additionally, we provide prospects for various upcoming experiments.
Research on Mountain Highway Slope Stability in Wenzhou area
Authors: Liu Mingqing , Chen Fan , Chen Li , Fu Jianye
Published: December 2023

In order to study the stability of highway slopes in the mountainous areas of southern Zhejiang, this paper takes the highway slopes in Wenzhou area as a representative, and uses the research methods of investigation and statistics, indoor experiments and numerical simulation to study the stability laws of highway slopes in mountainous areas. Through investigation and statistics, the safety and stability of highway slopes are understood, and the geotechnical parameters and shear performance parameters of typical slope soil are obtained through indoor experiments. Using the obtained geotechnical parameters, the binary slope stability of upper soil and lower rock is numerically simulated by finite element software, and the relevant laws of slope stability in Wenzhou area are obtained. The research results of this paper can provide technical support for the stability protection and treatment of highway slopes and engineering disaster prevention in this region, and can also provide reference for similar projects in southern Zhejiang.
Updated comparable efficacy of cord blood transplantation for chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia: a nationwide study
Authors: Kurosawa Shuhei , Shimomura Yoshimitsu , Ishiyama Ken , Fuse Kyoko , Shimazu Yutaka , Doki Noriko , Uchida Naoyuki , Tanaka Masatsugu , Takahashi Satoshi , Sakurai Masatoshi , Kobayashi Hikaru , Katayama Yuta , Takada Satoru , Ozeki Kazutaka , Nakamae Hirohisa , Ishimaru Fumihiko , Kanda Yoshinobu , Ichinohe Tatsuo , Atsuta Yoshiko , Itonaga Hidehiro
Published: December 2023

Chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia (CMML) is a haematological malignancy with a poor prognosis. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation remains the only curative approach. Without human leukocyte antigen-matched related sibling donors, the optimal alternative donor has yet to be established. Although unrelated bone marrow transplantation (UBMT) has been extensively studied, cord blood transplantation (CBT) for CMML remains largely unexplored. This nationwide retrospective study compared the outcomes of UBMT and single-unit umbilical CBT in patients with CMML. This study included 118 patients who underwent their first allo-HSCT during 2013–2021. Of these, 50 received BMT (UBMT group), while 68 underwent CBT (CBT group). The primary endpoint was the 3-year overall survival (OS). There were comparable 3-year OS rates between the UBMT (51.0%, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 34.1–65.5%) and CBT (46.2%, 95% CI: 33.2–58.1%; P = 0.60) groups. In the inverse probability of treatment weighting analysis, CBT did not show significantly improved outcomes compared with UBMT regarding the 3-year OS rate (hazard ratio 0.97 [95% CI: 0.57–1.66], P = 0.91). Thus, CBT may serve as a promising alternative to UBMT for patients with CMML. Further research is necessary to optimise transplantation strategies and enhance outcomes in patients with CMML undergoing CBT.