bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A greening theory of change: How neighborhood greening impacts adolescent health disparities
Authors: Kondo Michelle C. , Locke Dexter , Hazer Meghan , Mendelson Tamar , Fix Rebecca L. , Joshi Ashley , Latshaw Megan , Fry Dustin , Mmari Kristin
Published: February 2024

Neighborhoods are one of the key determinants of health disparities among young people in the United States. While neighborhood deprivation can exacerbate health disparities, amenities such as quality parks and greenspace can support adolescent health. Existing conceptual frameworks of greening‐health largely focus on greenspace exposures, rather than greening interventions. In this paper, we develop and propose a Greening Theory of Change that explains how greening initiatives might affect adolescent health in deprived neighborhoods. The theory situates greening activities and possible mechanisms of change in the context of their ability to modify distal social determinants of health factors, stemming from macrostructural and historical processes that lead to resource inequalities, affecting both the social and built environment in which adolescents live and develop. The framework illustrates both short‐ and long‐term health, economic, and security effects of greening. We also describe how the theory informed the development of Project VITAL (Vacant lot Improvement to Transform Adolescent Lives) in Baltimore, MD, which aims to (1) build a citywide sharable database on vacant lot restoration activities, (2) evaluate the impact of greening initiatives on adolescent health outcomes, (3) conduct cost‐effectiveness analyses, and (4) develop best practices for greening programs for improved adolescent health.
Building blocks for a happy life: Longitudinal associations between early life income, mentorship and later well‐being
Authors: Chan Thomas , Fruiht Veronica , McInnis Nicardo
Published: February 2024

Longitudinal data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID; N = 2996) were used to test hypotheses about the link between well‐being and financial and social developmental resources. Results suggest that higher average family income from birth to age 18, and personal and professional mentoring received between 17 and 30, were positively associated with indicators of positive well‐being and negatively related to negative indicators of well‐being. Interactions between early life family income and mentoring during emerging adulthood were not significant predictors of any of the well‐being outcomes. In all cases, the magnitudes of the coefficients became larger when simultaneously accounting for early life income, emerging adulthood mentoring, and their interactions—suggesting that financial and social resources in earlier life are independently linked to later life well‐being. Findings highlight that mentoring received in emerging adulthood benefits downstream hedonic and eudemonic well‐being, regardless of financial resources.
Dual‐Salt Electrolyte Additive Enables High Moisture Tolerance and Favorable Electric Double Layer for Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Wen Zuxin , Fang Wenqiang , Wang Fenglin , Kang Hong , Zhao Shuoqing , Guo Shaojun , Chen Gen
Published: February 2024

The carbonate electrolyte chemistry is a primary determinant for the development of high‐voltage lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Unfortunately, their implementation is greatly plagued by sluggish electrode interfacial dynamics and insufficient electrolyte thermodynamic stability. Herein, lithium trifluoroacetate‐lithium nitrate (LiTFA−LiNO3) dual‐salt additive‐reinforced carbonate electrolyte (LTFAN) is proposed for stabilizing high‐voltage LMBs. We reveal that 1) the in situ generated inorganic‐rich electrode‐electrolyte interphase (EEI) enables rapid interfacial dynamics, 2) TFA− preferentially interacts with moisture over PF6− to strengthen the moisture tolerance of designed electrolyte, and 3) NO3− is found to be noticeably enriched at the cathode interface on charging, thus constructing Li+‐enriched, solvent‐coordinated, thermodynamically favorable electric double layer (EDL). The superior moisture tolerance of LTFAN and the thermodynamically stable EDL constructed at cathode interface play a decisive role in upgrading the compatibility of carbonate electrolyte with high‐voltage cathode. The LMBs with LTFAN realize 4.3 V‐NCM523/4.4 V‐NCM622 superior cycling reversibility and excellent rate capability, which is the leading level of documented records for carbonate electrode.
Converting Glycerol into Valuable Trioses by Cuδ+‐Single‐Atom‐Decorated WO3 under Visible Light
Authors: Xiong Lunqiao , Yu Zhounan , Cao Hongchen , Guan Weixiang , Su Yang , Pan Xiaoli , Zhang Leilei , Liu Xiaoyan , Wang Aiqin , Tang Junwang
Published: February 2024

Photocatalytic selective oxidation under visible light presents a promising approach for the sustainable transformation of biomass‐derived wastes. However, achieving both high conversion and excellent selectivity poses a significant challenge. In this study, two valuable trioses, glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone, are produced from glycerol over Cuδ+‐decorated WO3 photocatalyst in the presence of H2O2. The photocatalyst exhibits a remarkable five‐fold increase in the conversion rate (3.81 mmol ⋅ g−1 ⋅ h−1) while maintaining a high selectivity towards two trioses (46.4 % to glyceraldehyde and 32.9 % to dihydroxyacetone). Through a comprehensive analysis involving X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements with and without light irradiation, electron spin resonance spectroscopy, and isotopic analysis, the critical role of Cu+ species has been explored as efficient hole acceptors. These species facilitate charge transfer, promoting glycerol oxidation by photoholes, followed by coupling with OH‐, which are subsequently dehydrated to yield the desired glyceraldehyde and dihydroxyacetone.
Proximity‐Enhanced Functional Imaging Analysis of Engineered Tumors
Authors: Chen Tianshu , Mao Siwei , Ma Ji , Tang Xiaochen , Zhu Rui , Mao Dongsheng , Zhu Xiaoli , Pan Qiuhui
Published: February 2024

Functional imaging (FI) techniques have revolutionized tumor imaging by providing information on specific tumor functions, such as glycometabolism. However, tumor cells lack unique molecular characteristics at the molecular level and metabolic pathways, resulting in limited metabolic differences compared to normal cells and increased background signals from FI. To address this limitation, we developed a novel imaging technique termed proximity‐enhanced functional imaging (PEFI) for accurate visualization of tumors. By using “two adjacent chemically labeled glycoproteins” as output signals, we significantly enhance the metabolic differences between tumor and normal cells by PEFI, thereby reducing the background signals for analysis and improving the accuracy of tumor functional imaging. Our results demonstrate that PEFI can accurately identify tumors at the cellular, tissue, and animal level, and has potential value in clinical identification and analysis of tumor cells and tissues, as well as in the guidance of clinical tumor resection surgery.
New copper (II) complexes bearing tryptophan‐based Schiff bases and 2,2′‐bipyridine: Crystal structures, DNA/BSA interactions and antiproliferative activities
Authors: Özbağcı Duygu İnci , Gültekin Büşra , Aydın İpek , Aydın Rahmiye , Arı Ferda , Zorlu Yunus
Published: February 2024

[Cu(5‐ClSal‐Trp)(bpy)]·CH3OH (1) and [Cu(3,5‐ClSal‐Trp)(bpy)]·H2O (2) (5‐ClSal‐Trp: Schiff base derived from 5‐chlorosalicylaldehyde and tryptophan, 3,5‐ClSal‐Trp: Schiff base derived from 3,5‐dichlorosalicylaldehyde and tryptophan, bpy: 2,2′‐bipyridine) have been synthesized and analyzed by CHN analysis, FTIR, electronic absorption spectroscopy, ESI‐MS and XRD techniques. Interaction of the complexes with biomolecules {calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA)} has been researched by fluorescence and electronic absorption spectroscopy. The results show that the complexes can bind via a moderate intercalation binding mode. According to the results obtained with both methods, the logKb and logKSV values of the complexes were found to be very close to each other. BSA quenching mechanism was found to be static. The results showed that the interaction between the complexes and BSA is driven by the hydrogen bond and van der Waals interaction. Additionally, the r values of the complexes (the complex 1 = 0.59 nm and the complex 2 = 0.53 nm) calculated from FRET theory suggested that the distance between the complexes (acceptor) and BSA (donor) is quite close. The complexes exhibited free radical scavenging activity compared to the standard antioxidant β‐carotene and catechin. Antiproliferative efficiency of the complexes on both breast cancer cells (MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231) were also researched using the Sulforhodamine B (SRB) viability assay. It was found that the complex 1 (IC50 = 10.99 μM) exhibited higher cytotoxicity than cisplatin (IC50 = 15.6 μM) against MDA‐MB‐231 cell line. Additionally, intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation was determined by dihydroethidium (DHE) fluorescent staining. N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) was used as an efficient reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger. It was observed that newly synthesized Cu (II) complexes exhibited anti‐growth potential in human breast cancer cells. Additionally, it was determined that the complexes induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation in cells in a dose‐dependent manner.
New insights on the application of half‐sandwich complexes with metal–iodide bonds for agricultural fungicides
Authors: Corsini Maddalena , Fabrizi de Biani Fabrizia , Policastro Antonella , Shvydkiy Nikita V. , Baini Giulia , Biagi Marco
Published: February 2024

Cyclopentadienyl half‐sandwich complexes of cobalt and iron with metal–iodide bonds were reported to efficiently inhibit the growth of phytopathogenic fungi. With the aim of investigating the structure/activity relationships, further in vitro experiments were carried out. Cyclic voltammetric characterization, chemical stability, and antiradical activity were performed in two solvents: dimethyl sulfoxide and acetone. The iodide ion removal from the complex appears to be the key point of antifungal activity. Moreover, a preliminary cell viability test on human keratinocytes was also assessed in order to verify the nontoxic effect of tested compounds. The cytotoxicity for all the complexes was comparable with that shown by povidone iodide, a common antifungal agent recognized as safe (IC50 > 300 mM). Furthermore, the work proposes an additional roadmap (sequence of experiments) at the initial antifungal activity tests, which improves insight into their mechanism of action.
Oleogelation: Triacontane crystals and hydrocarbon chain twisting. Theory and Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Cooney Joseph , Martini Silvana , Peyronel Fernanda , Pink David
Published: February 2024

The molecular structure of a crystalline monolayer of hydrocarbon chains was modeled and studied via computer simulation using the Metropolis Monte Carlo algorithm at a temperature T = 300 K. The only interactions in this system occur through Lennard‐Jones dispersion forces and short‐range atom‐atom repulsion. The intent was to establish whether the chains were either rigidly extended or twisted via the thermal formation of gauche bonds and apply the results to understand observations made on two possible oleogelators: triacontane and stearic acid. Specifically, we aimed to understand if their observed crystalline monolayer thicknesses are due to gauche‐bond‐shortened hydrocarbon chains oriented perpendicular to the monolayer surface, or to fully extended rigid chains oriented at a tilt angle with respect to the surface. The results showed that crystals of hydrocarbon chains did not include significant gauche bonds, so that all molecules were rigidly extended, thus explaining the experimental data previously reported. Accordingly, TC and SA dimer molecules are packed in crystalline multilayers with tilt angles in relation to the methyl group plane.
Ternary intumescent flame retardant composition containing ionic liquid towards efficiently flame‐retardant polystyrene
Authors: Guo Yongliang , Zhang Haojun , Cui Jinfeng , Guo Junhong , Yang Baoping
Published: February 2024

It is of great importance to enhance ability of charring formation for polystyrene (PS) to overcome non‐charring feature during burning. Here, we demonstrate a kind of ternary intumescent flame retardant composition composed by a novel ionic liquid butyltriphenylphosphonium‐chelated orthoborates (IL) with self‐expanded flame retardant, ammonium polyphosphate (APP) and expandable graphite (EG), to improve flame retardancy of PS. This ternary composition promotes limited oxygen index (LOI) value to 26.6 ± 0.5% and UL‐94 V0 level for PS composite with 15 wt% total loading. In addition, the peak value of heat release rate and smoke production rate of PS composite with ternary composition are separately reduced by 79.7% and 70.7% comparing to neat PS as well as 44.4% and 29.2% to its IL‐free binary counterpart in cone calorimeter test. Meanwhile, the ternary composition displays compact charring bulk constructed by large‐expansion‐volume vermiform expanded graphite. The TG‐FTIR technique is used to analyze gaseous profiles. The rheological property discloses that expansion behavior of the ternary composition contributes to robust viscoelasticity of composite and advantageous network construction at high temperature. Given the fire performance of the ternary composition, the combination of IFR and IL provides an opportunity for rational design and fabrication of functional flame‐retardant system.
Meglumine‐based Sustainable Three‐component Deep Eutectic Solvent Applicable for the Synthesis of Pyrazolo[5,1‐b]quinazoline‐3‐carboxylates as a Sensing Probe for Cu2+ Ions
Authors: Parekh Jaydeepkumar N. , Patel Manan S. , Chudasama Dipakkumar D. , Patel Harsh C. , Sutariya Pinkesh G. , Soni Heni N. , Rajput Chetan V. , Ram Kesur R.
Published: February 2024

An unprecedented meglumine‐based three‐component deep eutectic solvent (3c‐DES) (MegPAc) was synthesized using meglumine, p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA), and acetic acid as a renewable, and non‐toxic solvent. The exploitation of the MegPAc as an eco‐friendly reaction media to construct a selective and sensitive small organic molecular sensing probe, namely, pyrazolo[5,1‐b]quinazoline‐3‐carboxylates (PQCs) was executed. Captivatingly, the MegPAc served the dual role of solvent and catalyst, and it delivered the title components with 69–94 % yields within 67–150 minutes. Furthermore, a UV‐visible study unfolds the selective detection of Cu2+ ions with our synthetic probe 4 ba and resulted in hypsochromic shift due to electrostatic interactions. Additionally, 1H NMR titration study and density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed to attest the binding mechanism of sensing probe 4 ba and Cu2+ ions. Worthy of mention, this protocol unveils the efficacy of meglumine‐based 3c‐DES for the first time as a bio‐renewable system to synthesize the PQCs.
State‐dependent indirect hp‐pseudospectral method for rigid spacecraft attitude optimal control problem
Authors: Liu Yuxian , Li Yan
Published: February 2024

The state‐dependent indirect ‐pseudospectral (SDIHP) method for rigid spacecraft attitude control is presented in this paper. The optimal controller is obtained by the SDIHP method through classifying the attitude optimal control problem as a nonlinear quadratic optimal control problem. In the proposed control scheme, successive state‐dependent coefficient (SDC) parameterization is initially applied to the spacecraft dynamics to derive an available linear system to decrease the calculation cost and speed. Then, the indirect ‐adaptive spectral discretization is developed to convert the resultant optimal control problem into a sequence of linear equations, which can improve the global computational efficiency and guarantee the solving precision. Hence, the optimal control can be efficiently solved using basic matrix operations under the necessary collocation points based on the ‐adaptive features. Considering the inertia uncertainties and external disturbances, a state feedback controller is generated by the receding horizon control (RHC) framework to improve the robustness. Simulation results are included to show the effectiveness and performance of the suggested optimal method.
Transfer reinforcement learning for multi‐agent pursuit‐evasion differential game with obstacles in a continuous environment
Authors: Hu Penglin , Pan Quan , Zhao Chunhui , Guo Yaning
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we study the multi‐pursuer single‐evader pursuit‐evasion (MSPE) differential game in a continuous environment with the consideration of obstacles. We propose a novel pursuit‐evasion algorithm based on reinforcement learning and transfer learning. In the source task learning stage, we employ the Q‐learning and value function approximation method to overcome the challenges posed by the large‐scale storage space required by the conventional Q‐table solution method. This approach expands the discrete space to the continuous space by value function approximation and effectively reduces the demand for storage space. During the target task learning stage, we utilize the Gaussian mixture model (GMM) to classify the source tasks. The source policies whose corresponding state‐value sets have the highest probability densities are assigned for the agent in the target task for learning. This methodology not only effectively avoids negative transfer but also enhances the algorithm's generalization ability and convergence speed. Through simulation and experiment, we demonstrate the algorithm's effectiveness.
Studies of bright flat‐spectrum radio quasar 3C 454.3 at high and very‐high‐energies
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y. , Borisov Sergey
Published: February 2024

Blazars are the subclass of active galactic nuclei (AGNs) which includes the Flat Spectrum Radio Quasars (FSRQ) and BL Lacertae (BL Lac) objects. Variability on the short‐ and long‐time scale in all the wide energy ranges from radio up to gamma‐ray emission is a special characteristic of blazars. Multi‐wavelength studies of the flaring activity and variability of blazars can serve as a tool to probe the physical properties of the near the core regions and processes responsible for the observed features. 3C 454.3 is a bright FSRQ that is intensively studied through the wide range of electromagnetic spectrum. It has shown remarkably high activity since 2000. The long‐term observations of 3C 454.3 at 800 GeV–100 TeV energies with the SHALON telescope were started in 1998 year. A number of activity periods were found. The most significant flaring state of 3C 454.3 at TeV energies was detected in the SHALON observational period of November–December 2010. This increase is correlated with the flares at a lower energy range in observations of Fermi‐LAT. The direct association of the significant changes of gamma‐ray flux with strong core radio flares are not clear but observed correlations and lags in multi‐wavelength activity may point to the complexity of the emission processes in blazars connected with disturbance propagating in the jet.
γCygni SNR morphology viewed in the electromagnetic spectrum
Authors: Sinitsyna Vera G. , Sinitsyna Vera Y. , Balygin K. A. , Borisov S. S. , Klimov A. I. , Mirzafatikhov R. M. , Moseiko N. I.
Published: February 2024

The investigation of very high energy gamma‐ray sources touches on the problem of the cosmic ray origin and the role of the Galaxy in their generation. The SHALON observations have yielded the results on Cygni SNR Galactic supernova remnant. The observation results are presented with spectral energy distribution and emission map by SHALON in comparison with other experiment data obtained by ROSAT in x‐ray energy range, radio‐data by CGPS, and also observations of GeV–TeV gamma‐rays by Fermi LAT. The overall Cygni SNR characteristics detected in radio, x‐rays, and GeV–TeV gamma‐rays can be a result of the shocks at the interaction of the supernova ejecta and the surrounding medium. The collected experimental data help to make clear the origin of TeV ‐ray emission in the Cygni SNR. The density of target material in the SNR surroundings is enough to produce the observable TeV gamma‐ray flux via the shock acceleration of hadrons in the detected regions. The detection of gamma‐ray emission at 0.8–60 TeV from the North‐West and South‐East shells of Cygni SNR by SHALON would favor the hadronic origin of the gamma‐rays in this supernova remnant.
Identification and characterization of an endogenous biomarker of the renal vectorial transport (OCT2‐MATE1)
Authors: Ma Yanrong , Wang Xinyi , Gou Xueyan , Wu Xinan
Published: February 2024

The renal tubular organic cation transporter 2 (OCT2) and multidrug and toxin extrusion protein 1 (MATE1) mediate the vectorial elimination of many drugs and toxins from the kidney, and endogenous biomarkers for vectorial transport (OCT2‐MATE1) would allow more accurate drug dosing and help to characterize drug–drug interactions and toxicity. Human serum uptake in OCT2‐overexpressing cells and metabolomics analysis were carried out. Potential biomarkers were verified in vitro and in vivo. The specificity of biomarkers was validated in renal transporter overexpressing cells and the sensitivity was investigated by Km. The results showed that the uptake of thiamine, histamine, and 5‐hydroxytryptamine was significantly increased in OCT2‐overexpressing cells. In vitro assays confirmed that thiamine, histamine, and 5‐hydroxytryptamine were substrates of both OCT2 and MATE1. In vivo measurements indicated that the serum thiamine level was increased significantly in the presence of the rOCT2 inhibitor cimetidine, and the level in renal tissue was increased significantly by the rMATE1 inhibitor pyrimethamine. There were no significant changes in the uptake or efflux of thiamine in cell lines overexpressed OAT1, OAT2, OAT3, MRP4, organic anion transporting polypeptide 4C1, P‐gp, peptide transporter 2, urate transporter 1, and OAT4. The Km for thiamine with OCT2 and MATE1 were 71.2 and 10.8 μM, respectively. In addition, the cumulative excretion of thiamine at 2 and 4 h was strongly correlated with metformin excretion (R2 > 0.6). Thus, thiamine is preferentially secreted by the OCT2 and MATE1 in renal tubules and can provide a reference value for evaluating the function of the renal tubular OCT2‐MATE1.
Theory and practice of BIM skills of construction management professional based on conceive–design–implement–operate engineering teaching mode
Authors: Li Nan , Han Yiming , Gao Feng
Published: February 2024

Building information modeling (BIM), as the core technology for digital transformation and development of the construction industry, is in vigorous development. This study analyzes the current situation of teaching BIM to construction management professionals in universities. Based on the CDIO (conceive–design–implement–operate) engineering education concept, a new teaching system of BIM technology for construction management professionals is proposed. It is composed of a diversified teaching mode of implanting BIM technology in professional courses, establishing a school–enterprise cooperation platform, expert linkage, BIM team construction, skill competition, and transformation of scientific research achievements, and provides a reference for the reform of practical teaching. It is proved that this education mode improves students' learning enthusiasm, engineering practice ability, solidarity and ability to solve practical engineering problems, cultivates outstanding talents in BIM technology, drives students' employment, and provides innovative talents in BIM technology needed for the development of the construction industry.
Three cases highlighting possible discrepancies in the interpretation of transgender DXA scores
Authors: De La Torre Sebastian C. , Godar Cassandra M. , Shakir Mohamed K. M. , Hoang Thanh D.
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

For diagnosis of osteoporosis, a T‐score of ≤−2.5 is recommended for all transgender and gender‐diverse patients aged 50 years or older, regardless of hormonal status. This case series presents 3 transgender individuals younger than 50 years undergoing gender‐affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) who had DXA scores suggestive of osteoporosis. We highlight possible discrepancies in DXA scan interpretations, especially in forearm bone mineral density measurements. We present the baseline (prior to beginning GAHT), 6‐month, and 1‐year follow‐up DXA data along with pertinent labs to include 25‐OH vitamin D, calcium, and alkaline phosphatase, for 2 transgender males (assigned female at birth) and 1 transgender female (assigned male at birth) undergoing GAHT who had low Z‐scores and T‐scores suggestive of osteoporosis. Multiple studies have analyzed the BMD data of individuals taking GAHT over time, which identify possible causes for low baseline Z‐scores for transgender females, but less so for transgender males. Other than positional statements, guidelines remain unclear regarding diagnostic approaches to osteoporosis and low Z‐scores in transgender individuals who are premenopausal or under 50 years of age. This case series addresses discrepancies in interpretation that may be encountered by clinicians with baseline and follow‐up DXAs, especially involving the forearm, during the course of GAHT. This highlights the importance of establishing clearer guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of osteoporosis and low BMD for chronological age in the transgender population.
Recurrent syncope driven by unique‐variant angina pectoris
Authors: Yang Guang , Lei Yanna , Xin Minglong , Xu Wenhu , Zhao Guangxian , Jin Xueying , Piao Meina , Li Xiang , Cheng Xian Wu
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

The patient's vasospastic variant angina manifested as syncope with asymptomatic ischemic episodes, and repeated 24‐h dynamic electrocardiogram and coronary angiography examinations combined with coronary provocation spasm tests were necessary for its diagnosis and management.
Aurones: Unexplored Visible‐Light Photoswitches for Aqueous Medium
Authors: Berdnikova Daria V.
Published: February 2024

The development of synthetically accessible photoswitches showing an efficient performance in aqueous medium has recently become an urgent task due to the rapid progress of photopharmacology and novel biomedical applications. In response to this challenge, in this work, aurone derivatives are introduced as a novel class of efficient visible‐light photoswitches for aqueous medium. In general, aurones exhibit superior performance in water, including significantly higher quantum yields, compared with other indigoid photoswitches (hemithioindigo and hemiindigo). Especially remarkable are the half‐lives of the photoinduced E‐isomers of aurones in water, reaching up to 7 years. Further modification of the aurone scaffold with substituents that increase water solubility does not affect most of the photoswitching characteristics and even improves some them. The highly advantageous property profile of the aurone photoswitches make them a perfect novel platform for the design of light‐controllable systems in the areas requiring photoswitching in aqueous medium.
Patient navigation job roles by levels of experience: Workforce Development Task Group, National Navigation Roundtable
Authors: Varanasi Arti Patel , Burhansstipanov Linda , Dorn Carrie , Gentry Sharon , Capossela Michele A. , Fox Kyandra , Wilson Donna , Tanjasiri Sora , Odumosu Olayinka , Saavedra Ferrer Elba L.
Published: February 2024

Plain Language Summary

Cancer patient navigators work in diverse settings ranging from community‐based programs to comprehensive cancer centers to improve outcomes in underserved populations by eliminating barriers to timely cancer prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship in a culturally appropriate and competent manner.

This article clarifies the roles and responsibilities of Entry, Intermediate, and Advanced level cancer patient navigators. The competencies described in this article apply to patient navigators, nurse navigators, and social work navigators.

This article provides a resource for administrators to create job descriptions for navigators with specific levels of expertise and for patient navigators to advance their oncology careers and attain a higher level of expertise.
Cytologic risk stratification of medullary thyroid carcinoma: Does it make the grade?
Authors: Nishino Michiya
Published: February 2024

Recent efforts to develop a histologic grading system for medullary thyroid carcinoma is gaining broad acceptance. How well do these grading parameters translate to cytology specimens?
An Indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene‐based Organic Dye for P‐type Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells and Photoelectrochemical H2O2 Production
Authors: Cai Bin , Wrede Sina , Wang Sicong , Kloo Lars , Boschloo Gerrit , Tian Haining
Published: February 2024

Efficient photosensitizers are crucial for advancing solar energy conversion and storage technologies. In this study, we designed and synthesized a novel organic dye, denoted as YB6, for p‐type dye‐sensitized solar cells (p‐DSCs) and photoelectrochemical H2O2 production. YB6 features an extended conjugated π‐bridge derived from indacenodithieno[3,2‐b]thiophene and exhibits notable advantages: a two‐fold higher molar extinction coefficient at its main absorption peak and a broader absorption as compared to the PB6 dye. In p‐type dye‐sensitized NiO photoelectrochemical cells, the YB6‐based device demonstrated superior performance as compared to the PB6‐based device. It delivered nearly a 50 % higher H2O2 production over 5 hours. Furthermore, when fabricated into p‐DSCs, the YB6‐based device exhibited a 33 % higher power conversion efficiency. This enhancement is caused by suppressed charge recombination from the dye structure, which in turn may be traced to a larger thermodynamic up‐hill process for recombination losses in the YB6‐based system.
The Lifetime of Hydroxyl Radical in Realistic Fuel Cell Catalyst Layer
Authors: Lv Xue‐Hui , Xu Xia , Zhao Kuang‐Min , Zhou Zhi‐You , Wang Yu‐Cheng , Sun Shi‐Gang
Published: February 2024

The lifetime of hydroxyl radicals (⋅OH) in the fuel cell catalyst layer remains uncertain, which hampers the comprehension of radical‐induced degradation mechanisms and the development of longevity strategies for proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). In this study, we have precisely determined that the lifetime of ⋅OH radicals can extend up to several seconds in realistic fuel cell catalyst layers. This finding reveals that ⋅OH radicals are capable of carrying out long‐range attacks spanning at least a few centimeters during PEMFCs operation. Such insights hold great potential for enhancing our understanding of radical‐mediated fuel cell degradation processes and promoting the development of durable fuel cell devices.
Dual LC parallel multi‐resonant DC‐DC converter with wide output‐voltage range
Authors: Zhao Qinglin , Shi Yuechang , Ding Hao , Yuan Jing
Published: February 2024

Although LLC converters have widespread applications due to their advantages of high efficiency, high power density, and soft switching, in wide voltage gain range applications, a large switching frequency range is inevitably required, which may bring difficulties in converter design and efficiency improvement. In this paper, a dual LC parallel multi‐resonant converter (MRC) is introduced. The converter contains two parallel LC resonant branches in the resonant tank, which exhibit the notch filter characteristic on the gain curve. It enables the converter to provide wide voltage gain regulation, soft startup, and overcurrent protection over a limited frequency range. Compared to other five‐element MRCs, since the converter provides different current loops for the fundamental wave and the third harmonic to transmit active power, the circulating reactive energy and stress on the resonant components are reduced. Finally, a detailed design procedure for a 3.3 kW converter prototype with an output voltage range of 250–450 V is provided.
Cochlear dysfunction as an early biomarker of cognitive decline in normal hearing and mild hearing loss
Authors: Medel Vicente , Delano Paul H. , Belkhiria Chama , Leiva Alexis , De Gatica Cristina , Vidal Victor , Navarro Carlos F. , Martín Simon San , Martínez Melissa , Gierke Christine , García Ximena , Cerda Mauricio , Vergara Rodrigo , Delgado Carolina , Farías Gonzalo A.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Age‐related hearing loss is an important risk factor for cognitive decline. However, audiogram thresholds are not good estimators of dementia risk in subjects with normal hearing or mild hearing loss. Here we propose to use distortion product otoacoustic emissions (DPOAEs) as an objective and sensitive tool to estimate the risk of cognitive decline in older adults with normal hearing or mild hearing loss.

METHODS

We assessed neuropsychological, brain magnetic resonance imaging, and auditory analyses on 94 subjects > 64 years of age.

RESULTS

We found that cochlear dysfunction, measured by DPOAEs—and not by conventional audiometry—was associated with Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes (CDR‐SoB) classification and brain atrophy in the group with mild hearing loss (25 to 40 dB) and normal hearing (<25 dB).

DISCUSSION

Our findings suggest that DPOAEs may be a non‐invasive tool for detecting neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in the older adults, potentially allowing for early intervention.
Cognitive dispersion is related to subtle objective daily functioning changes in older adults with and without cognitive impairment
Authors: De Vito Alyssa N. , Ju Catherine H. , Lee Samuel Y. , Cohen Anael Kuperwajs , Trofimova Alexandra D. , Liu Yan , Eichten Alyssa , Hughes Adriana
Published: February 2024

Early detection of cognitive and functional decline is difficult given that current tools are insensitive to subtle changes. The present study evaluated whether cognitive dispersion on neuropsychological testing improved prediction of objectively assessed daily functioning using unobtrusive monitoring technologies. Hierarchical linear regression was used to evaluate whether cognitive dispersion added incremental information beyond mean neuropsychological performance in the prediction of objectively assessed IADLs (i.e., computer use, pillbox use, driving) in a sample of 104 community‐dwelling older adults without dementia (Mage = 74.59, 38.5% Female, 90.4% White). Adjusting for age, sex, education, and mean global cognitive performance, cognitive dispersion improved prediction of average daily computer use duration (R2 Δ = 0.100, F Change, p = 0.005), computer use duration variability (R2 Δ = 0.089, F Change p = 0.009), and average daily duration of nighttime driving (R2 Δ = 0.072, F Change p = 0.013). These results suggest cognitive dispersion may improve prediction of objectively assessed functional changes in older adults without dementia.
Mid‐Holocene rainfall seasonality and ENSO dynamics over the south‐western Pacific
Authors: Nava‐Fernandez Cinthya , Braun Tobias , Pederson Chelsea L. , Fox Bethany , Hartland Adam , Kwiecien Ola , Höpker Sebastian N. , Bernasconi Stefano , Jaggi Madalina , Hellstrom John , Gázquez Fernando , French Amanda , Marwan Norbert , Immenhauser Adrian , Breitenbach Sebastian F. M.
Published: February 2024

El Niño–Southern Oscillation dynamics affect global weather patterns, with regionally diverse hydrological responses posing critical societal challenges. The lack of seasonally resolved hydrological proxy reconstructions beyond the observational era limits our understanding of boundary conditions that drive and/or adjust El Niño–Southern Oscillation variability. Detailed reconstructions of past El Niño–Southern Oscillation dynamics can help modelling efforts, highlight impacts on disparate ecosystems and link to extreme events that affect populations from the tropics to high latitudes. Here, mid‐Holocene El Niño–Southern Oscillation and hydrological changes are reconstructed in the south‐west Pacific using a stalagmite from Niue Island, which represents the period 6.4–5.4 ka BP. Stable oxygen and carbon isotope ratios, trace elements and greyscale data from a U/Th‐dated and layer counted stalagmite profile are combined to infer changes in local hydrology at sub‐annual to multi‐decadal timescales. Principal component analysis reveals seasonal‐scale hydrological changes expressed as variations in stalagmite growth patterns and geochemical characteristics. Higher levels of host rock‐derived elements (Sr/Ca and U/Ca) and higher δ18O and δ13C values are observed in dark, dense calcite laminae deposited during the dry season, whereas during the wet season, higher concentrations of soil‐derived elements (Zn/Ca and Mn/Ca) and lower δ18O and δ13C values are recorded in pale, porous calcite laminae. The multi‐proxy record from Niue shows seasonal cycles associated with hydrological changes controlled by the positioning and strength of the South Pacific Convergence Zone. Wavelet analysis of the greyscale record reveals that El Niño–Southern Oscillation was continuously active during the mid‐Holocene, with two weaker intervals at 6–5.9 and 5.6–5.5 ka BP. El Niño–Southern Oscillation especially affects dry season rainfall dynamics, with increased cyclone activity that reduces hydrological seasonality during El Niño years.
Temporal dynamics in the composition of bird communities along a gradient of farmland restoration
Authors: Haslem Angie , Clarke Rohan H. , Maisey Alex C. , Stewart Alistair , Radford James Q. , Bennett Andrew F.
Published: February 2024

Revegetation plantings are a key activity in farmland restoration and are commonly assumed to support biotic communities that, with time, replicate those of reference habitats. Restoration outcomes, however, can be highly variable and difficult to predict; hence there is value in quantifying restoration success to improve future efforts. We test the expectation that, over time, revegetation will restore bird communities to match those in reference habitats; and assess whether specific planting attributes enhance restoration success. We surveyed birds in 255 sites in south‐east Australia, arranged along a restoration gradient encompassing three habitat types: unrestored farmland (paddocks), revegetation plantings (comprising a chronosequence up to 52 years old) and reference habitats (remnant native vegetation). Surveys were undertaken in 2006/2007 and again in 2019, with data used to compare bird assemblages between habitat types. We also determined whether, in the intervening 12 years, bird communities in revegetation had shifted toward reference habitats on the restoration gradient. Our results showed that each habitat contained a unique bird community and that, over time, assemblages in revegetation diverged away from those in unrestored farmland and converged toward those in reference habitats. Two planting attributes influenced this transition: the bird assemblages of revegetation were more likely to have diverged away from those of unrestored farmland (with scattered mature trees) 12 years later if they were located in areas with more surrounding tree cover, and were mostly ungrazed by livestock (compared with grazed plantings). Our results highlight three key ways in which revegetation contributes to farmland restoration: (1) by supporting richer and more diverse bird assemblages than unrestored farmland, (2) by enhancing beta diversity in rural landscapes through the addition of a unique bird community, and (3) by shifting bird assemblages toward those found in reference habitats over time. However, revegetation plantings did not replicate reference habitats by ~40–50 years in our region, and complete convergence may take centuries. These findings have implications for environmental offset programs and mean that effective conservation in farmland environments depends on the retention and protection of natural and seminatural habitats as a parallel management strategy to complement restoration.
Enhanced dispersal capacity in edge population individuals of a rapidly expanding butterfly
Authors: Dederichs Anaïs , Fischer Klaus , Michalik Peter , Beaulieu Michaël
Published: February 2024

Natural range shifts offer the opportunity to study the phenotypic and genetic changes contributing to colonization success. The recent range shift of the Southern small white butterfly (Pieris mannii) from the South to the North of Europe offers a prime example to examine a potential dispersal syndrome in range‐expanding individuals. We compared butterflies from the core and edge populations using a multimodal approach addressing behavioral, physiological, and morphological traits related to dispersal capacity. Relative to individuals from the core range (France), individuals from the edge (Germany) showed a higher capacity and motivation to fly, and a higher flight metabolic rate. They were also smaller, which may enhance their flight maneuverability and help them cope with limited resource availability, thereby increasing their settlement success in novel environments. Altogether, the behavioral, physiological, and morphological differences observed between core and edge populations in P. mannii suggest the existence of a dispersal syndrome in range‐expanding individuals. Whether these differences result from genetic and/or phenotypic responses remains, however, to be determined.
Application of lidar to assess the habitat selection of an endangered small mammal in an estuarine wetland environment
Authors: Hagani Jason S. , Takekawa John Y. , Skalos Shannon M. , Casazza Michael L. , Riley Melissa K. , Estrella Sarah A. , Barthman‐Thompson Laureen M. , Smith Katie R. , Buffington Kevin J. , Thorne Karen M.
Published: February 2024

Light detection and ranging (lidar) has emerged as a valuable tool for examining the fine‐scale characteristics of vegetation. However, lidar is rarely used to examine coastal wetland vegetation or the habitat selection of small mammals. Extensive anthropogenic modification has threatened the endemic species in the estuarine wetlands of the California coast, such as the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris; SMHM). A better understanding of SMHM habitat selection could help managers better protect this species. We assessed the ability of airborne topographic lidar imagery in measuring the vegetation structure of SMHM habitats in a coastal wetland with a narrow range of vegetation heights. We also aimed to better understand the role of vegetation structure in habitat selection at different spatial scales. Habitat selection was modeled from data compiled from 15 small mammal trapping grids collected in the highly urbanized San Francisco Estuary in California, USA. Analyses were conducted at three spatial scales: microhabitat (25 m2), mesohabitat (2025 m2), and macrohabitat (~10,000 m2). A suite of structural covariates was derived from raw lidar data to examine vegetation complexity. We found that adding structural covariates to conventional habitat selection variables significantly improved our models. At the microhabitat scale in managed wetlands, SMHM preferred areas with denser and shorter vegetation and selected for proximity to levees and taller vegetation in tidal wetlands. At the mesohabitat scale, SMHM were associated with a lower percentage of bare ground and with pickleweed (Salicornia pacifica) presence. All covariates were insignificant at the macrohabitat scale. Our results suggest that SMHM preferentially selected microhabitats with access to tidal refugia and mesohabitats with consistent food sources. Our findings showed that lidar can contribute to improving our understanding of habitat selection of wildlife in coastal wetlands and help to guide future conservation of an endangered species.
Quantifying the direct and indirect relationships linking the environment, seagrass, and their associated fauna
Authors: Millot Jade , Grall Jacques , Toumi Chirine , Maguer Marion , Boyé Aurélien
Published: February 2024

Foundation species such as seagrasses modulate critical ecosystem processes, promote biodiversity, and structure community spatial and temporal dynamics. Hence, they play a key role in mediating the response of biodiversity to environmental changes. The breadth of their contribution to biodiversity maintenance and the potential cascading effects of their alteration remain unclear as we lack a comprehensive understanding of the intricate mechanisms governing their response to environmental changes and that of their associated fauna. Indeed, the mechanisms involved are often studied in isolation or at scales that only provide incomplete representations of the complex functioning of these ecosystems. This study aimed to clarify the direct and indirect relationships linking the environment, seagrass, and their associated faunal assemblages, using structural equation modeling (SEM). To this end, we review the literature to derive theoretical models of the functioning of seagrass ecosystems and test them using long‐term monitoring data covering 14 years of nine different Zostera marina seagrass beds across 500 km of coastline. We show that contradictory relationships and ambiguities regarding seagrass–biodiversity relationships emerge from the currently available literature (covering experimental, observational, and modeling studies). The SEM approach allowed us to clarify these direct and indirect relationships and resolve most ambiguities. In particular, we show that seagrass mediates the effect of the environment on its associated communities. However, this mediating effect is different, both qualitatively and quantitatively, for epifauna and infauna. Unexpectedly, the diversity of benthic macrofauna appeared to be controlled and promoted by the biomass rather than by the shoot density of the seagrass beds. We also provide quantitative estimates for the direct and cascading pathways linking seagrass biodiversity to environmental changes. Overall, by synthesizing, clarifying, and quantifying the multiple relationships linking a foundation species such as seagrass to its environment and associated biodiversity, we contribute to a better understanding of seagrass meadows functioning and help predict the potential consequences of foundation species alteration on their associated fauna.