bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eco‐friendly Anode Materials for Lithium and Sodium‐ion Batteries from Wood Sources
Authors: Aslam Junaid , Ahsan Waseem Muhammad , Zhang Yifan , Wang Yong
Published: July 2024

The intricate materials found in nature boast remarkable multifunctional properties honed through millions of years of evolution, resulting in the highest optimal organization in terms of function, structure, and chemistry. Leveraging the distinctive attributes of natural materials through biomimicry present a captivating avenue for research, brimming with vast potential for groundbreaking discoveries. Among the array of precursors available, wood stands out as a prominent candidate that covered over 30 % of the global land surface. Renowned for its captivating mechanical properties and anisotropic hierarchical porosity finely tuned to facilitate swift pathways, wood embodies attributes of abundance and biodegradability. Consequently, scientists have drawn inspiration from wood's exceptional characteristics to engineer batteries exhibiting remarkable electrochemical performance. For instance, the characteristic hierarchical multi‐channeled construction of wood serves as a blueprint for synthesizing energy storage materials endowed with heightened ion and electron diffusivity. Serving as an integrated carbonaceous scaffold featuring a hierarchical architecture and aligned channels, wood‐based anodes enhance ion and electron conductivities, while bolstering the kinetics of charge transfer in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). This review underscores the recent strides made in utilizing wood as a hierarchically porous and renewable material for developing anode materials tailored for LIBs and SIBs. Additionally, it sheds light on the potential of wood‐derived anode materials for LIBs and SIBs to alleviate the strain on critical raw materials, while accentuating the additional environmental sustainability benefits derived from such innovations.
A validated stability‐indicating reversed‐phase‐UPLC method for simultaneous estimation of promethazine hydrochloride, methylparaben, propylparaben and sodium benzoate assay of cough suppressant and antihistamine liquid oral dosage forms
Authors: Pippalla Sreenivas , Nekkalapudi Arjuna Rao , Komreddy Venugopal Reddy
Published: July 2024

A quick, simple, sensitive, efficient and stability‐indicating reverse‐phase ultraperformance liquid chromatographic method for the estimation of propylparaben, methylparaben and sodium benzoate in a pharmaceutical liquid oral formulation was developed. A Waters Acquity UPLC BEH C18, 50 × 2.1 mm, 1.7 μm i.d. column was used to perform chromatographic separation with a 0.1% perchloric acid mobile phase used as solvent A and a mixture of 0.1 % perchloric acid and methanol in the ratio 20:80 (v/v), respectively, as solvent B. The experiments were carried out at a flow rate of 0.4 ml/min and the detection wavelength was 240 nm. The compartment temperature of the column was set at 40°C and the injection volume was set at 2 μl. The main aim of the research was to develop a single UPLC assay method for promethazine (active ingredient) and preservatives in the oral solution of promethazine HCl and dextromethorphan HBr that contains promethazine (active ingredient) and methylparaben, propylparaben and sodium benzoate (preservatives). An assay of dextromethorphan HBr was developed and validated by another HPLC method. The drug and preservatives were eluted at retention times of 19.3 min for promethazine HCl, 9.3 min for methylparaben, 18.9 min for propylparaben and 8.9 min for sodium benzoate. Validation of the developed method was carried out as stated by the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines ICH Q2B and under USP<1225>. The analytical parameters verified specificity/selectivity, linearity, accuracy, ruggedness and robustness. The linearity ranges of promethazine HCL, methylparaben, propylparaben and sodium benzoate were 10–100, 10–80, 1.0–8.0 and 10–80 μg/ml, respectively, with a correlation coefficient of active ingredients and preservatives of 1.00. Percentage recoveries of promethazine, propylparaben, methylparaben, and sodium benzoate were 100.0–100.2, 99.0–100.3, 99.5–98.0 and 99.0–100.0%. The validated analytical method proves that the method is specific, precise, linear, accurate, sensitive, rugged and stable, indicating the quantification of the active ingredient and all preservatives in liquid oral formulations.
Effects of n‐hexane fraction of Piper guineense seed extract on Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester hydrochloride‐induced hypertension in rats
Authors: Olopade Elijah Oluwatosin , Morakinyo Adetoun Elizabeth , Alao Jude Oluwapelumi , Oyedepo Temitope A.
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effects of the n‐hexane fraction of the ethanolic seed extract of PG (NFESEPG) on hypertension induced by Nω‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME) in rats. Specifically, the study examined the impact of NFESEPG on blood pressure, oxidative stress markers, NO concentration, angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) and arginase activities, and cardiac biomarkers in hypertensive rats. The study involved collecting, identifying, and processing the PG plant to obtain the ethanolic seed extract. The extract was then partitioned with solvents to isolate the n‐hexane fraction. Hypertension was induced in rats by oral administration of L‐NAME for 10 days, while concurrent treatment with NFESEPG at two doses (200 and 400 mg/kg/day) was administered orally. Blood pressure was measured using a noninvasive tail‐cuff method, and various biochemical parameters were assessed. Treatment with both doses of NFESEPG significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure in L‐NAME‐induced hypertensive rats. Additionally, NFESEPG administration increased NO concentration and decreased ACE and arginase activities, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and cardiac biomarkers in hypertensive rats. The findings indicate that NFESEPG effectively lowered blood pressure in hypertensive rats induced by L‐NAME, potentially through mechanisms involving the modulation of oxidative stress, NO bioavailability, and cardiac biomarkers. These results suggest the therapeutic potential of NFESEPG in managing hypertension and related cardiovascular complications.
P2Y12 adenosine receptor inhibitors preloading among patients with non‐ST‐elevation acute coronary syndromes; insights from a nationwide multicenter registry
Authors: Arow Ziad , Shmueli Hezzy , Koifman Edward , Barashi Rami , Assali Abid , Mahajna Luham , Orvin Katia , Beigel Roy , Abramowitz Yigal , Tsaban Gal
Published: July 2024

Background

The safety and efficacy of treatment with P2Y12 adenosine‐diphosphate receptor inhibitors (P2Y12‐RI) before coronary angiography among patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation acute coronary syndromes (NSTEACS) are questionable.

Aims

To assess the pretreatment rate with P2Y12‐RI and its association with ischemic and bleeding risks among patients with NSTEACS.

Methods

The study comprised patients with NSTEACS referred for coronary angiography and included in the Acute Coronary Syndrome Israeli Surveys between 2013 and 2021. Patients were divided into two groups according to the timing of P2Y12‐RI loading concerning coronary angiography: pretreatment and posttreatment. The primary endpoints were 30‐day major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; composite of cardiovascular mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, stent thrombosis, and urgent revascularization) and 1‐year all‐cause mortality.

Results

Of 3076 patients, 2423 (78.8%) received pretreatment with a P2Y12‐RI, and 653 (21.2%) received P2Y12‐RI posttreatment. Prasugrel and ticagrelor were used more in the posttreatment group compared to the pretreatment group (16% vs. 6% and 38% vs. 25%, respectively, p < 0.001 for both). No difference was observed in the rate of 30‐day MACE comparing pretreatment and posttreatment (5.3% vs. 2.2%, respectively, p = 0.62). A sensitivity analysis of 30‐day MACE among patients from the 2021 survey demonstrated similar results (2.5% in the posttreatment group vs. 8.0% in the pretreatment group, p = 0.13). There were no differences in 1‐year all‐cause mortality rates between the pretreatment and posttreatment groups (4.8% vs. 3.8%, p = 0.31).

Conclusions

Among patients with NSTEACS referred for an invasive strategy, the P2Y12‐RI posttreatment strategy was associated with similar 30‐day and 1‐year MACE as the pretreatment strategy. These large‐scale, multicenter, real‐world data provide reassurance on the safety and efficacy of delaying P2Y12‐IR until after coronary stratification to improve clinical decision‐making.
Pontine tubercular abscess: A rare presentation of CNS tuberculosis masquerading as glioma in a child
Authors: Adhikari Bikash Chandra , Rouniyar Sangam , Roy Ujjawal , Kunwor Bishal , Lama Ashmina
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Tuberculous brain abscess (TBA) in a child was initially misdiagnosed as glioma. Two craniotomies, abscess drainage, and anti‐tubercular therapy led to recovery. Pontine TBA, though rare and atypical, can have better outcome with timely intervention.
CO2‐Hydrogenation to Methanol over CuO/ZnO Based Infiltration Composite Catalyst Spheres
Authors: Fritsch Carl , Dornseiffer Jürgen , Blankenstein Jule , Noyong Michael , Groteklaes Christian , Simon Ulrich
Published: July 2024

Multiple active component catalysts for efficient conversion of CO2 to Methanol (MeOH) are synthesized through coating γ‐Al2O3 carrier spheres by incipient wetness impregnation method (IWI). The well‐known bimetallic Copper Oxide/Zinc Oxide (CuO/ZnO)is promoted in three steps, first by Cerium Oxide (CeO2), then additionally with Zirconium Oxide (ZrO2) and finally with Calcium Oxide (CaO) resulting in four carrier catalysts with high surface area and catalyst pore volume. Quaternary and quinary carrier catalysts promoted with moderate CeO2, ZrO2 in the quaternary (20 % CZCZ) and additionally with CaO (20 % CZCZC) in the quinary catalysts demonstrate high CO2‐conversion ratios (16.2 % and 18.7 %) and space time yields (0.51 and 0.47 gMeOH h−1 gCatalyst−1) at 5 MPa and 250 °C. The high conversion ratios (XCO2) and good methanol space‐time‐yields (STYMeOH) are attributed to enhanced copper dispersion and several multi metal oxide component interactions essential to enhance CO2‐activation and ‐conversion through the catalytic systems as well as very high overall surface area. Compared to related studies, the carrier catalysts show superior conversion rates, proving the effectiveness of the introduced multi‐component carrier catalyst and extending the understanding of infiltrate composites as possible large‐scale application alternatives to precipitated MeOH catalyst systems.
Commercialization Efforts of Capacitive Deionization Technology in Water Treatment Processes
Authors: Li Bei , Tan Chang , Sun Kang , Boles Steven , Wang Ao , Zheng Tianye
Published: July 2024

Although capacitive deionization (CDI) technology has been studied intensively for more than 20 years, its commercialization remains in the initial stage, which is partly caused by the insufficient knowledge exchange between academia and industry. This concept reviews multiple scaling‐up efforts in the CDI technology for treating real water streams, following a case‐by‐case fashion. While the cell architecture in pilot scales is limited to the membrane CDI, highlighting the necessary role of ion‐exchange components during scaling‐ups, different ways of electrode stacking, i. e., monopolar and bipolar, are available. The performance indicators of these CDI systems when treating real water streams are summarized to gain insights into industrial practices. Importantly, key discrepancies in cell components and performances between pilot‐scale and lab‐scale studies are emphasized. The main challenges in large‐scale CDI systems for industrial purposes are discussed, providing hints for a better integration of research and applications.
Benzothiadiazole‐Based Ordered Mesoporous Polymer as a Versatile, Metal‐Free Heterogeneous Photocatalyst
Authors: Liu Jiyu , Zhu Yin , Li Shengyu , Hu Yansong , Chen Kuan , Li Tingyan , Zhang Yuan
Published: July 2024

Visible‐light active heterogeneous organophotocatalysts have recently gained considerable interest in organic synthetic community. Ordered mesoporous polymers (OMPs) are highly promising as heterogeneous alternative to traditional precious metal/organic dyes‐based photocatalysts. Herein, we report the preparation of a benzothiadiazole functionalized OMPs (BT‐MPs) through a “bottom‐up” strategy. High ordered periodic porosity, large surface area, excellent stability and rational energy‐band structures guarantee the high catalytic activity of BT‐MPs. As a result, at least six conversions, e. g., the [3+2] cycloaddition of phenols with olefins, the selective oxidation of sulfides, the C‐3 thiocyanation of indole and the aminothiocyanation of β‐keto ester, could be promoted smoothly by BT‐MPs. In addition, BT‐MPs was readily recovered with well maintaining its photocatalytic activity and could be reused for at least eight times. This study highlights the potential of exploiting photoactive OMPs as recyclable, robust and metal‐free heterogeneous photocatalysts.
Chalcogen Bonding in Selective Recognition and Liquid‐Liquid Extraction of Perrhenate
Authors: Pramanik Sourav , Islam Abu S. M. , Ghosh Iti , Ghosh Pradyut
Published: July 2024

Efficient recognition and extraction of hazardous anionic pollutants from water medium is of great significance for environmental concerns, representing a challenging area of research in supramolecular chemistry. In this study, we present, for the first time, a comprehensive demonstration of the ability of chalcogen bonding (ChB) to recognize and remove the ReO4− from 100 % water medium. The anion recognition ability is well elucidated through solution phase NMR and ITC studies, which clearly reveal the selective binding of ReO4− over other oxo‐anions. Moreover, the selenoimidazolium scaffold effectively engages in Se•••O ChB interaction with ReO4− as confirmed by X‐ray crystal structure and XPS analysis. More importantly, the binding of ReO4− with different prolongations of the σ–holes, along with Se•••Se chalcogen bonding interactions, lead to the formation of a 1D supramolecular assembly. Eventually, ChB receptor Se4Me−Br exhibits ~62 % ReO4− extraction efficiency through precipitation as the extraction method. Furthermore, in efforts to enhance efficiency, a hydrophobic ChB receptor Se4Do‐PF6 has been prepared, achieving an efficiency of up to ~93 % at a very low concentration (~5 ppm) by liquid‐liquid extraction.
N‐Vacancy Enriched Porous BN Fibers for Enhanced Polysulfides Adsorption and Conversion in High‐Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Cheng Long , Huang Yang , Ahmad Mehraj , Liu Yue , Xu Jiaqi , Liu Yihong , Seidi Farzad , Wang Dongqing , Lin Zixia , Xiao Huining
Published: July 2024

Severe shuttle effect of soluble polysulfides and sluggish redox kinetics have been thought of as the critical issues hindering the extensive applications of lithium‐sulfur batteries (LSBs). Herein, one‐dimensional boron nitride (1D BN) fibers with abundant pores and sufficient N‐vacancy defects were synthesized using a thermal crystallization following a pre‐condensation step. The 1D structure of BN facilitates unblocked ions diffusion pathways during charge/discharge cycles. The embedded pores within the polar BN strengthen the immobilization of polysulfides via both physical confinement and chemical interaction. Moreover, the highly exposed active surface area and intentionally created N‐vacancy sites substantially promote reaction kinetics by lowering the energy barriers of the rate‐limiting steps. After incorporating with conductive carbon networks and elemental S, the as‐prepared S/Nv‐BN@CBC cathode of LSBs deliver an initial discharge capacity of up to 1347 mAh g−1 at 200 mA g−1, while maintaining a low decay rate of 0.03 % per cycle over 1000 cycles at 1600 mA g−1. This work offers an effective strategy to mitigate the shuttle effect and highlights the significant potential of defect‐engineered BN in accelerating the reaction kinetics of LSBs.
Self‐assembling Monolayer‐Assisted Perovskite Growth Enables High‐Performance Solar Cells
Authors: Li Jun , Xie Lisha , Yang Shuncheng , Tong Xinyu , Pu Zhenwei , Yang Mengjin , Wu Yujie , Yang Daobin , Wang Tao , Ge Ziyi
Published: July 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Inverted (p‐i‐n) perovskite solar cells (PSCs) are favored by researchers owing to their superior compatibility with flexible substrates and tandem device fabrication. Additionally, the hole transport layer (HTL) serves as a template for perovskite growth, which is critical for enhancing the device performance. However, the current research on how the HTL promotes perovskite crystallization is insufficient. Here, 4PADCB, a self‐assembled monolayer (SAM) hole transport material, was optimized as a superior template for perovskite growth through comparative analysis; accordingly, compact perovskite film with vertical growth was prepared. The better matched energy level alignment between 4PADCB and perovskite suppressed nonradiative recombination at the interface and enabled rapid hole extraction. Moreover, high‐quality perovskite film growth on 4PADCB exhibited lower Young's modulus and less residual stress. By integrating 4PADCB into p‐i‐n PSCs, the optimal device achieved a power conversion efficiency of 24.80%, with an open‐circuit voltage of 1.156 V, thus achieving the best rank among devices without perovskite post‐treatment, additives, dopants, or intermediate layers. Furthermore, the unencapsulated device demonstrated exceptional thermostability and photostability under maximum power point tracking. Thus, this work provides a new understanding for the development of novel SAMs and perovskite growth, and it is expected to further improve device performance.
MB38(M=Be and Zn): A Quasi‐Planar Structure Rather Than a Core‐Shell Octahedral Borospherene Structure
Authors: Li Shi‐Xiong , Yang Yue‐Ju , Wang Dan‐Yu , Chen De‐Liang
Published: July 2024

In a recent paper (ChemPhysChem, 2023, 24, e202200947), based on the results computed using DFT method, the perfect core‐shell octahedral configuration Be@B38 and Zn@B38 was reported to be the global minima of the MB38(M=Be and Zn) clusters. However, this paper presents the lower energy structures of MB38(M=Be and Zn) clusters as a quasi‐planar configuration, the Be atom is found to reside on the convex surface of the quasi‐planar B38 isomer, while the Zn atom tends to be attached to the top three B atoms of the quasi‐planar B38 isomer. Our results show that quasi‐planar MB38(M=Be and Zn) at DFT method have lower energy than core‐shell octahedral configuration M@B38(M=Be and Zn). Natural atomic charges, valence electron density, electron localization function (ELF) analyses identify the MB38(M=Be and Zn) to be charge transfer complexes (Be2+B382−and Zn1+B381−) and suggest primarily the electrostatic interactions between doped atom and B38 fragment. The photoelectron spectra of the corresponding anionic structures were simulated, providing theoretical basis for future structural identification.
Endoscopic resection for gastric submucosal tumors: A single‐center experience in Japan
Authors: Tanaka Ippei , Shimamura Yuto , Inoue Haruhiro , Azuma Daisuke , Ushikubo Kei , Yamamoto Kazuki , Okada Hiroki , Nishikawa Yohei , Tanabe Mayo , Onimaru Manabu
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Endoscopic resection (ER) for gastric submucosal tumors (SMTs) has gained prominence in recent years, with studies emerging from various countries. However, there is a paucity of reports from Japan. We aimed to elucidate the efficacy and safety of ER for gastric SMT in Japan.

Methods

In this retrospective observational study, we investigated the outcomes of consecutive patients who underwent ER for gastric SMT from January 2017 to May 2023. The outcome variables assessed included the complete resection rate, procedure time, closure‐related outcomes, and the incidence of adverse events.

Results

A total of 13 patients were included in the analysis. The median procedure time was 163 (55–283) min. Complete full‐thickness resection was performed in seven cases, while in four cases, the serosa remained, and in two cases, the outer layer of the muscularis propria remained. In two cases where the SMT was located on the anterior side, conversion to laparoscopic surgery became necessary, resulting in a procedural success rate of 84.6% (11/13). Excluding these two cases, endoscopic closure of the defect was successfully accomplished in the remaining 11 cases. R0 resection was achieved in 12 out of 13 cases (92.3%). Although one patient had peritonitis, which was successfully treated conservatively, no other treatment‐related adverse events were encountered.

Conclusions

Although ER for SMT on the anterior side may be challenging, our experience revealed that ER is a safe and efficacious approach for gastric SMT.
Prophylactic effect of compression stockings for elevated D‐dimer levels following endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Harada Fumito , Kodashima Shinya , Ikusaka Ken , Aoki Naoaki , Shimizu Yuki , Honda Taku , Sakurai Miyoko , Maruyama Kyohei , Aoyagi Hitoshi , Isono Akari , Miura Ryo , Abe Koichiro , Arizumi Toshihiko , Asaoka Yoshinari , Yamamoto Takatsugu , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: July 2024

Objectives

A relationship between endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) and deep vein thrombosis has been recognized. We previously reported that a high corrected midazolam dose (total midazolam dose/initial dose of midazolam used to induce sedation) is related to elevated D‐dimer levels after ESD. In this study, the effect of compression stockings (CSs) in preventing thrombosis following ESD under sedation was evaluated by measuring D‐dimer levels before and after ESD.

Methods

The participants were patients who underwent ESD for upper gastrointestinal tumors during the period between April 2018 and October 2022. Patients with pre‐ESD D‐dimer levels ≥1.6 µg/m and patients with corrected midazolam doses ≤3.0 were excluded. A retrospective investigation of the relationship between CS use and high post‐ESD D‐dimer levels (difference in D‐dimer levels ≥1.0 µg/mL between before and after ESD) was conducted.

Results

There were 27 patients in the non‐CS group (NCS) and 33 patients in the CS group. The number of patients with high post‐ESD D‐dimer levels was 13 (48.2%) in the non‐CS group and six (18.2%) in the CS group; the number in the CS group was significantly lower (p = 0.024). On logistic regression analysis, a relationship was seen between the wearing of CSs and a lower number of patients with high post‐ESD D‐dimer levels (odds ratio 0.24, 95% confidence interval 0.08–0.79, p = 0.019).

Conclusion

Wearing CSs was related to a lower risk of high post‐ESD D‐dimer levels. This result suggests that thrombus formation is a cause of elevated D‐dimer levels after ESD.
Clinical assessment of computed tomography for detecting ingested blister packs: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Ishihara Yo , Ichita Chikamasa , Jinushi Ryuhei , Sasaki Akiko
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Blister pack (BP) ingestion poses serious risks, such as gastrointestinal perforation, and accurate localization by computed tomography (CT) is a common practice. However, while it has been reported in vitro that CT visibility varies with the material type of BPs, there have been no reports on this variability in clinical settings. In this study, we investigated the CT detection rates of different BPs in clinical settings.

Methods

This single‐center retrospective study from 2010 to 2022 included patients who underwent endoscopic foreign body removal for BP ingestion. The patients were categorized into two groups for BP components, the polypropylene (PP) and the polyvinyl chloride (PVC)/polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC) groups. The primary outcome was the comparison of CT detection rates between the groups. We also evaluated whether the BPs contained tablets and analyzed their locations.

Results

This study included 61 patients (15 in the PP group and 46 in the PVC/PVDC group). Detection rates were 97.8% for the PVC/PVDC group compared to 53.3% for the PP group, a significant difference (p < 0.01). No cases of BPs composed solely of PP were detected by CT. Blister packs were most commonly found in the upper thoracic esophagus.

Conclusions

Even in a clinical setting, the detection rates of PVC and PVDC were higher than that of PP alone. Identifying PP without tablets has proven challenging in clinical. Considering the risk of perforation, these findings suggest that esophagogastroduodenoscopy may be necessary, even if CT detection is negative.
Balloon catheter‐assisted endoscopic resection for papillary adenoma of non‐exposed protruded type (with video)
Authors: Gu Weigang , Tan Justin Ryan L. , Jin Hangbin , Lou Qifeng , Tang Chuang , Cheung Ka Shing , Yang Jianfeng , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: July 2024

Papillary adenomas, known precursors to papillary adenocarcinoma, warrant close monitoring due to their malignant potential. Historically, surgical resection represented the mainstay of treatment for papillary adenomas with intraductal extension. However, recent advancements in endoscopic techniques have facilitated the adoption of endoscopic papillectomy as a minimally invasive alternative in carefully selected cases. We report a case of an 82‐year‐old woman with a diagnosis of papillary adenoma exhibiting intraductal extension. This was managed with a novel endoscopic technique, balloon catheter‐assisted endoscopic resection. Due to the obscured intraductal component of the papillary mass, a balloon occlusion catheter was deployed within the common bile duct and used as traction to facilitate endoscopic visualization of the mass. Endoscopic resection via papillectomy was subsequently performed. Histopathological examination of the resected specimen revealed a villous adenoma with high‐grade dysplasia. Serial endoscopic ultrasound examinations with targeted papillary biopsies were performed to monitor for disease recurrence.
Centering Amah Mutsun voices in the analysis of a culturally important, fire‐managed coastal grassland
Authors: Taylor Annalise , Sigona Alexii , Kelly Maggi
Published: July 2024

Indigenous communities throughout California, USA, are increasingly advocating for and practicing cultural fire stewardship, leading to a host of social, cultural, and ecological benefits. Simultaneously, state agencies are recognizing the importance of controlled burning and cultural fire as a means of reducing the risk of severe wildfire while benefiting fire‐adapted ecosystems. However, much of the current research on the impacts of controlled burning ignores the cultural importance of these ecosystems, and risks further marginalizing Indigenous knowledge systems. Our work adds a critical Indigenous perspective to the study of controlled burning in California's unique coastal grasslands, one of the most biodiverse and endangered ecosystems in the country. In this study, we partnered with the Amah Mutsun Tribal Band to investigate how the abundance and occurrence of shrubs, cultural plants, and invasive plants differed among three adjacent coastal grasslands with varying fire histories. These three sites are emblematic of the state's diverging approaches to grassland management: fire suppression, fire suppression followed by wildfire, and an exceedingly rare example of a grassland that has been repeatedly burned approximately every 2 years for more than 30 years. We found that Danthonia californica was significantly more abundant on the burned sites, whereas all included shrub species (Baccharis pilularis, Frangula californica, and Rubus ursinus) were significantly more abundant on the site with no recorded fire, results that have important implications for future cultural revitalization efforts and the loss of coastal grasslands to shrub encroachment. In addition to conducting a culturally relevant vegetation survey, we used Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery to compare the relative severities of the two most recent fire events within the study area. Critically, we used interviews with Amah Mutsun tribal members to contextualize the results of our vegetation survey and remote sensing analysis, and to investigate how cultural burning contrasts from typical Western fire management approaches in this region. Our study is a novel example of how interviews, field data, and satellite imagery can be combined to gain a deeper ecological and cultural understanding of fire in California's endangered coastal grasslands.
Trauma‐Focused Cognitive‐Behavioral Therapy for Adolescents Bullied Because of Weight: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Lydecker Janet A. , Ozbardakci Elise V. , Lou Raissa , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to test the feasibility and acceptability of a treatment for weight bullying.

Method

Participants who had experienced weight‐related bullying and were currently experiencing traumatic stress were recruited and enrolled in a feasibility trial of trauma‐focused cognitive behavioral therapy combined with cognitive‐behavioral therapy for eating disorders (TF‐CBT‐WB). Thirty adolescents (aged 11–17) were determined eligible and 28 began treatment (12 weeks).

Results

This study demonstrated the treatment feasibility and acceptability of TF‐CBT‐WB for adolescents with traumatic stress following weight‐bullying experiences. Overall retention and treatment satisfaction were good. Within‐subjects improvements were observed for intrusion symptoms of traumatic stress, global eating‐disorder severity, overvaluation of weight/shape, dissatisfaction with weight/shape, dietary restraint, and depression. Clinically‐meaningful improvements were attained for several patient outcomes. Clinically‐meaningful decreases in functional impairment were attained by more than half of the participants.

Conclusions

Overall, this clinical trial testing TF‐CBT‐WB for adolescents experiencing traumatic stress following weight‐bulling experiences demonstrated therapy feasibility, acceptability, and initial evidence that clinically‐meaningful improvements in patient outcomes were feasible. However, some patient outcomes thought to be more central to how the youth viewed the world failed to show improvements, suggesting that additional content related to these constructs might yield greater benefit.

Trial Registration

This pilot study was registered on clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04587752, Cognitive‐Behavioral Therapy for Weight‐related Bullying.
Resilience eDBT: Development and Usability Evaluation of a Dialectical Behavior Therapy Skills Training App for Eating Disorders
Authors: Anderson Cleo , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew , Messer Mariel , Linardon Jake
Published: July 2024

Objective

Dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) is an evidence‐based treatment for disorders characterized by recurrent binge eating. Yet, access to specialized treatment like DBT remains limited. To increase the accessibility of DBT, we developed a DBT skills training app (Resilience: eDBT) for the management of eating disorder (ED) symptoms. This paper delineates the developmental process of Resilience and tests its usability.

Methods

Descriptive information on the development and features of Resilience is provided, including its framework, content structure and delivery formats, functionality, data storage procedure, and privacy protocols. Usability was assessed via a mixed methods approach in 10 symptomatic individuals. Qualitative data were organized based on an existing framework, which included six themes: usability, visual design, user engagement, content, therapeutic persuasiveness, and therapeutic alliance.

Results

Resilience demonstrated good usability via a Systems Usability Scale score of 85.5, which exceeded the recommended cutoff of 68. Positive aspects of the app, according to interview data, were the ease of use and the visual design, while the addition of peer support was suggested as an opportunity for improvement.

Discussion

A novel DBT‐based app may serve as an acceptable, low‐intensity option or adjunct to traditional treatment for targeting ED symptoms that emerge in daily life. However, notable limitations include the small sample size and the single time point at which the usability assessment was conducted.
Ziphius cavirostris presence relative to the vertical and temporal variability of oceanographic conditions in the Southern California Bight
Authors: Schoenbeck Clara M. , Solsona‐Berga Alba , Franks Peter J. S. , Frasier Kaitlin E. , Trickey Jennifer S. , Aguilar Catalina , Schroeder Isaac D. , Širović Ana , Bograd Steven J. , Gopalakrishnan Ganesh , Baumann‐Pickering Simone
Published: July 2024

The oceanographic conditions of the Southern California Bight (SCB) dictate the distribution and abundance of prey resources and therefore the presence of mobile predators, such as goose‐beaked whales (Ziphius cavirostris). Goose‐beaked whales are deep‐diving odontocetes that spend a majority of their time foraging at depth. Due to their cryptic behavior, little is known about how they respond to seasonal and interannual changes in their environment. This study utilizes passive acoustic data recorded from two sites within the SCB to explore the oceanographic conditions that goose‐beaked whales appear to favor. Utilizing optimum multiparameter analysis, modeled temperature and salinity data are used to identify and quantify these source waters: Pacific Subarctic Upper Water (PSUW), Pacific Equatorial Water (PEW), and Eastern North Pacific Central Water (ENPCW). The interannual and seasonal variability in goose‐beaked whale presence was related to the variability in El Niño Southern Oscillation events and the fraction and vertical distribution of the three source waters. Goose‐beaked whale acoustic presence was highest during the winter and spring and decreased during the late summer and early fall. These seasonal increases occurred at times of increased fractions of PEW in the California Undercurrent and decreased fractions of ENPCW in surface waters. Interannual increases in goose‐beaked whale presence occurred during El Niño events. These results establish a baseline understanding of the oceanographic characteristics that correlate with goose‐beaked whale presence in the SCB. Furthering our knowledge of this elusive species is key to understanding how anthropogenic activities impact goose‐beaked whales.
Phenological responses of alpine snowbed communities to advancing snowmelt
Authors: Crepaz Harald , Quaglia Elena , Lombardi Giampiero , Lonati Michele , Rossi Mattia , Ravetto Enri Simone , Dullinger Stefan , Tappeiner Ulrike , Niedrist Georg
Published: July 2024

Climate change is leading to advanced snowmelt date in alpine regions. Consequently, alpine plant species and ecosystems experience substantial changes due to prolonged phenological seasons, while the responses, mechanisms and implications remain widely unclear. In this 3‐year study, we investigated the effects of advancing snowmelt on the phenology of alpine snowbed species. We related microclimatic drivers to species and ecosystem phenology using in situ monitoring and phenocams. We further used predictive modelling to determine whether early snowmelt sites could be used as sentinels for future conditions. Temperature during the snow‐free period primarily influenced flowering phenology, followed by snowmelt timing. Salix herbacea and Gnaphalium supinum showed the most opportunistic phenology, while annual Euphrasia minima struggled to complete its phenology in short growing seasons. Phenological responses varied more between years than sites, indicating potential local long‐term adaptations and suggesting these species' potential to track future earlier melting dates. Phenocams captured ecosystem‐level phenology (start, peak and end of phenological season) but failed to explain species‐level variance. Our findings highlight species‐specific responses to advancing snowmelt, with snowbed species responding highly opportunistically to changes in snowmelt timings while following species‐specific developmental programs. While species from surrounding grasslands may benefit from extended growing seasons, snowbed species may become outcompeted due to internal‐clock‐driven, non‐opportunistic senescence, despite displaying a high level of phenological plasticity.
Historic channel dynamics of a highly developed dryland river
Authors: Salo Jessica , Katz Gabrielle
Published: July 2024

Understanding how river systems adjust to hydrologic alterations is critical to sustainable river management. Remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS) provide a reliable and cost‐effective approach to studying river adjustment, including the possible attainment of dynamic equilibrium. We used this approach to study the highly managed lower South Platte River in northeastern Colorado, USA. We assessed the active channel (inclusive of open water, sand bars and adjacent sparsely vegetated areas) in three 30 km study sections, using General Land Office (GLO) maps circa 1870, and a time series of eight sets of aerial photographs from 1941 to 2015. In the GLO surveys, the active channel was 72–80% larger and 65–85% wider than in the later aerial photographs. Mean daily discharge in the prior photo interval was the strongest hydrologic predictor of channel area, while mean June daily discharge was the strongest predictor of channel width. Maximum daily discharge was the only significant predictor of lateral movement of the main channel. The highest rates of channel movement occurred when the primary channel switched locations to occupy a pre‐existing secondary channel. An average of 17% of the total active channel area was persistent, defined as consisting of channels at ≥7 of the eight photo years, and there was a narrow, persistent active channel throughout 68–72% of the length of each section. Thus, the location of the river has been stable since 1941, though flanking the channel location were areas of the active channel that were more temporally dynamic. After 1956, the post‐development lower South Platte River channel planform achieved a state of dynamic equilibrium, fluctuating thereafter within a relatively narrow range of values. As conditions in the basin change in the future due to increased municipal and industrial water demand and climate change, we can expect the river to also change.
A comprehensive review of an electric vehicle based on the existing technologies and challenges
Authors: Kumar Anil
Published: July 2024

This article evaluates the growing prominence of electric vehicles (EVs) driven by factors like cost reduction and increased environmental awareness. It scrutinizes EV progress, focusing on battery technology advancements, charging methods, and emerging research prospects. It also delves into the global EV market status and its future potential. With batteries being a pivotal EV component, this article offers an extensive overview of various battery technologies, spanning from traditional Lead‐acid to modern lithium‐ion batteries. Furthermore, it explores diverse EV charging standards, emphasizing battery energy management, and underscores unexplored research opportunities for both industry and academia.
A systematic review of digital access to post‐diagnostic health and social care services for dementia
Authors: Watson James , Hanna Kerry , Talbot Catherine , Hansen Marcus , Cannon Jacqueline , Caprioli Thais , Gabbay Mark , Komuravelli Aravind , Eley Ruth , Tetlow Hilary , Giebel Clarissa
Published: July 2024

Objectives

For many people with dementia and unpaid carers, using technology for care and support has become essential. Rapid proliferation of technology highlights the need to understand digital access to health and social care services for dementia. This mixed‐methods systematic review aims to explore digital access to health and social care services for dementia, from the perspective of people with dementia and unpaid carers.

Methods

Nine electronic databases were searched in May 2023 for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed‐method studies, published in English or German, focused on experiences of using technology‐delivered health and social care services for people with dementia and unpaid carers. After removal of duplicates and screening, 44 empirical papers were included.

Results

From the 44 studies, findings were grouped into five categories, highlighting experiences for people with dementia and unpaid carers: (1) Adapting to technology, (2) Inequalities and variations in outcomes, (3) Impact on caring, (4) Impact on health, and (5) Impact on relationships. Proliferation of technology in care access emphasised the need for quick adaptation to technology and examination of its impact. The impact of such service delivery has evidenced mixed findings. There were improvements in the health and wellbeing of people with dementia and unpaid carers, and benefits for their dyadic relationship. However, using technology for health and social care access is not always possible and is often reliant on unpaid carers for support. Lower tech‐literacy, lack of equipment or money to buy equipment and poor internet connection can impact the potential for positive outcomes.

Conclusions

Technology can bring great benefits: social inclusion, improved service access and care. However, using technology in service delivery in dementia needs careful thought. Professionals and service providers need to be cognizant of the complex nature of dementia, and the benefits and challenges of hybrid service delivery.
Incentivized collaborative care to disseminate and enhance contingency‐management services
Authors: Davidson Rosemarie M. , Brown Hayley D. , Regnier Sean D. , DeFulio Anthony
Published: July 2024

Contingency management is especially effective in supporting medication adherence and drug abstinence among people with opioid use disorder. However, the incorporation of contingency management into clinical practice has been slow. The present study was designed to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and usability of incentives for providers as a means of accelerating collaborative care with contingency management. Thirteen buprenorphine prescribers served as participants in a nonexperimental study. The prescribers who referred patients to a contingency‐management service received monetary incentives for reviewing patient performance data and describing their use of these data in treatment decisions. The results show that this approach is feasible, acceptable, and easy to use for everyone involved. Self‐reports indicate improved prescriber–patient relationships and more informed care. However, prescriber‐focused incentives did not appear to greatly enhance access to contingency‐management services for patients. Thus, provider incentives may be beneficial but further research is needed to advance adoption of contingency management.
Re‐evaluation of risk and oncological outcomes of resection of veins and arteries in the resection of pancreatic cancer
Authors: Lee Mirang , Chae Yoon Soo , Park Seulah , Yun Won‐Gun , Jung Hye‐Sol , Han Youngmin , Kwon Wooil , Park Joon Seong , Jang Jin‐Young
Published: July 2024

Background

Advances in chemotherapy have led to increasing major vascular resection during pancreatectomy which has been contraindicated due to high morbidity. This study aimed to verify the safety and oncological outcomes of vascular resection during pancreatectomy in the era of neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods

Data from patients who underwent surgery for pancreatic cancer at Seoul National University Hospital between 2001 and 2021 were reviewed. Clinicopathological outcomes were analyzed according vessel resection. A propensity‐score‐matched (PSM) analysis was performed to evaluate survival outcomes.

Results

Of 1596 patients, the proportion of those who underwent vascular resection increased from 9.2% to 23.4% over time divided into 5‐year intervals. There were no differences in major complications (15.6% vs. 13.0%; p = .266) and 30‐day mortality rate (0.3% vs. 0.6%; p = .837) between the vascular and nonvascular resection groups. After PSM, the vascular resection group demonstrated comparable survival outcome with the nonvascular resection group (5 year‐survival‐rate 20.4 vs. 23.7%; p = .194). Arterial resection yielded comparable survival outcome with nonvascular resection (5 year‐survival‐rate 38.1% vs. 23.7%; p = .138).

Conclusions

Appropriate vascular resection―even arterial―is safe and effective in patients carefully selected for radical surgery in the era of neoadjuvant therapy. Further studies are needed to determine the optimal indication and method for vascular resection in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Cold‐adapted influenza‐vectored RSV vaccine protects BALB/c mice and cotton rats from RSV challenge
Authors: Xu Yongru , Sun Fang , Bai Zhifang , Bian Chengrong , Wang Xiliang , Zhao Zhongpeng , Yang Penghui
Published: July 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) remains the primary cause of lower respiratory tract infections, particularly in infants and the elderly. In this study, we employed reverse genetics to generate a chimeric influenza virus expressing neuraminidase‐3F protein conjugate with three repeats of the RSV F protein protective epitope inserted into the NA gene of A/California/7/2009 ca (CA/AA ca), resulting in rFlu/RSV/NA‐3F (hereafter, rFRN3). The expression of NA‐3F protein was confirmed by Western blotting. The morphology and temperature‐sensitive phenotype of rFRN3 were similar to CA/AA ca. Its immunogenicity and protective efficiency were evaluated in BALB/c mice and cotton rats. Intranasal administration of rFRN3 elicited robust humoral, cellular, and to some extent, mucosal immune responses. Compared to controls, rFRN3 protected animals from RSV infection, attenuated lung injury, and reduced viral titers in the nose and lungs post‐RSV challenge. These results demonstrate that rFRN3 can trigger RSV‐specific immune responses and thus exhibits potent protective efficacy. The “dual vaccine” approach of a cold‐adapted influenza vector RSV vaccine will improve the prophylaxis of influenza and RSV infection. rFRN3 thus warrants further clinical investigations as a candidate RSV vaccine.
The origin and spread of HIV‐1 CRF59_01B epidemic in China: A molecular network and phylogeographic analysis
Authors: Yan Huanchang , Wu Hao , Li Shunming , Wang Jiahang , Luo Yefei , Luo Rui , Gu Yuzhou , Cai Yanshan , Tang Shixing , Hao Yuantao , Gu Jing , Han Zhigang , Liu Yu
Published: July 2024

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 CRF59_01B, identified in China in 2013, has been detected nationwide, exhibiting notably high prevalence in Guangzhou and its vicinity. This study aimed to unravel its origin and migration. A data set was established, incorporating all available CRF59_01B pol gene sequences and their metadata from Guangzhou and the public database. Bayesian phylogeographic analysis demonstrated that CRF59_01B originated in Shenzhen, the neighboring city of Guangzhou, around 1998 with posterior probability of 0.937. Molecular network analysis detected 1131 transmission links and showed a remarkably high clustering rate (78.9%). Substantial inter‐city transmissions (26.5%, 300/1131) were observed between Shenzhen and Guangzhou while inter‐region transmissions linked Guangzhou with South (46) and Southwest (64) China. The centre of Guangzhou was the hub of CRF59_01B transmission, including the inflow from Shenzhen (3.57 events/year) and outflow to the outskirts of Guangzhou (>2 events/year). The large‐scale analysis revealed significant migration from Shenzhen to Guangzhou (5.08 events/year) and North China (0.59 events/year), and spread from Guangzhou to Central (0.47 events/year), East (0.42 events/year), South (0.76 events/year), Southwest China (0.76 events/year) and Shenzhen (1.89 events/year). Shenzhen and Guangzhou served as the origin and the hub of CRF59_01B circulation, emphasizing inter‐city cooperation and data sharing to confine its nationwide diffusion.