bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Achieving a Deeply Desodiated Stabilized Cathode Material by the High Entropy Strategy for Sodium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Zhaoguo , Liu Rixin , Xu Sheng , Tian Jiaming , Li Jingchang , Li Haoyu , Yu Tao , Chu Shiyong , M. D'Angelo Anita , Pang Wei Kong , Zhang Liang , Guo Shaohua , Zhou Haoshen
Published: May 2024

Manganese‐based layered oxides are currently of significant interest as cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries due to their low toxicity and high specific capacity. However, the practical applications are impeded by sluggish intrinsic Na+ migration and poor structure stability as a result of Jahn–Teller distortion and complicated phase transition. In this study, a high‐entropy strategy is proposed to enhance the high‐voltage capacity and cycling stability. The designed P2‐Na0.67Mn0.6Cu0.08Ni0.09Fe0.18Ti0.05O2 achieves a deeply desodiation and delivers charging capacity of 158.1 mAh g−1 corresponding to 0.61 Na with a high initial Coulombic efficiency of 98.2 %. The charge compensation is attributed to the cationic and anionic redox reactions conjunctively. Moreover, the crystal structure is effectively stabilized, leading to a slight variation of lattice parameters. This research carries implications for the expedited development of low‐cost, high‐energy‐density cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries.
Synthesis and properties of waterborne polyurethane acrylate emulsions with high bio‐based content
Authors: Zhuang Yu , Luo Jiangyu , Duan Xiaojun , Zhu Yanan , Qu Jinqing
Published: May 2024

The bio‐based hydrophilic monoglycerol succinate was synthesized and reacted with bio‐based raw materials including polyols, pentamethylene diisocyanate, 1,4‐butanediol, to prepare the waterborne polyurethane acrylate (Bio‐WPUA) emulsions with high bio‐based content. The effect of bio‐based polyol categories including poly(trimethylene ether glycol), poly(tetrahydrofuran), and castor oil on the properties of Bio‐WPUA and its films were studied. The structure, thermal stability, crystallinity, contact angle, and mechanical properties of Bio‐WPUA film were characterized with fourier infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffraction, contact angle analyzer, and mechanical tensile testing. It was found that Bio‐WPUA film containing poly(trimethylene ether glycol) as the soft‐segmented display good tensile stress, thermal stability, and water resistance with 1.38% of the water absorption rate, while Bio‐WPUA containing castor oil polyol as the soft‐segmented had good tensile strain and low‐temperature film‐forming properties with excellent film properties. The bio‐carbon content of Bio‐WPUA was high up to 40% according to ASTM D6866‐22, and possesses good physical mechanical and chemical resistance performance. The results provide theoretical guidance for the synthesis of polyurethane emulsions with bio‐based materials instead of petroleum‐based materials.
Synthesis of new sustainable polyester‐type hydrogels from chemical recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) products applied on the removal of indigo carmine dye
Authors: Schneider Daniela E. , Simioni Tomás M. , Petzhold Cesar L. , Daitx Tales S.
Published: May 2024

Large amounts of plastic waste are daily generated, becoming a global issue that needs to be addressed. Thus, new recycling alternatives have been explored, such as the depolymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) waste (wPET). These reactions can lead to the formation of oligomers and monomers, which can then be employed in new synthetic processes. The aim of this work is to use the products of the chemical recycling of wPET on the synthesis of hydrogels and evaluate the capacity of these materials to adsorb dyes aiming a wastewater treatment. The depolymerizations were done through glycerolysis reactions catalyzed by zinc (II) acetate under microwave radiation. Afterwards, the obtained oil was crosslinked with citric acid (CA) under tin (II) chloride catalysis to obtain the hydrogels. The water uptake capacity of the hydrogels ranged from 310% to 1442%, depending on the CA content. When placed in an indigo carmine solution, the hydrogels showed high adsorption capacity, removing up to 97% of the dye. The kinetic study revealed a physicochemical mechanism for the removal process, corroborated by Temkin isotherms. These results indicate that the chemical recycling of PET via glycerolysis is a viable alternative for producing hydrogels, reducing plastic waste while creating new tools for wastewater treatment.
Ultrafast Self‐Healing Elastomer with Closed‐Loop Recyclability
Authors: Mah Justin Jian Qiang , Li Ke , Feng Hongzhi , Surat'man Nayli Erdeanna Binte , Li Bofan , Yu Xiaohui , Zhang Mingsheng , Wang Sheng , Li Zibiao
Published: May 2024

The loss of function after prolonged periods of use is inevitable for all materials including plastics. Hence, self‐healing capabilities are a key development to prolong the service lifetime of materials. One of such self‐healing capabilities can be achieved by integrating dynamic bonds such as boronic ester linkages into polymeric materials, however the rate of self‐healing in these materials is insufficient and current methods to accelerate it are limited. In this study, we report the rational design, synthesis and characterization of a fluorinated elastomer (FBE15) that utilizes enhanced interaction between polymer chains afforded by strong dipole‐dipole interactions from −CF3, which showed a significant increase in binding energy to −7.71 Kcal/mol from −5.51 Kcal/mol, resulting in increased interaction between the boronic ester linkages and improving self‐healing capabilities of boronic ester materials, drastically reducing the time required for stress relaxation by 900 %. The bulk elastomer is capable of ultrafast self‐healing in a one‐click fashion that can happen in mere seconds, which can then be stretched to 150 % of its original length. By utilising the dynamic cross‐linking, FBE15 is also capable of both mechanical reprocessing into the same materials and chemical recycling into its starting materials, respectively, further allowing reconstruction of the elastomers that have comparable properties to the original ones at the end of its service lifespan.
Solvent Free Potassium 3,5‐dinitro‐6‐oxo‐1,6‐dihydropyrazin‐2‐olate 3D EMOF as Thermally Stable Energetic Material
Authors: Yadav Abhishek Kumar , Ghule Vikas D. , Dharavath Srinivas
Published: May 2024

Heat‐resistant explosives play a vital role in indispensable applications. For this, we have synthesized a novel, three‐dimensional, solvent‐free energetic metal−organic framework (EMOF) potassium 3,5‐dinitro‐6‐oxo‐1,6‐dihydropyrazin‐2‐olate (KDNODP) straightforwardly. The synthesized EMOF was characterized through IR, NMR spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry studies. Furthermore, single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction provided a complete description of KDNODP. It exhibits a three‐dimensional EMOF structure with remarkably balanced properties such as high density (2.11 g cm−3), excellent thermal stability (291 °C), good detonation performance (8127 m s−1 and 26.94 GPa) and low mechanical sensitivity (IS=35 J; FS=360 N) than the commonly used heat‐resistant explosives HNS (density=1.74 g cm−3; VOD=7164 m s−1, DP=21.65 GPa, IS=5 J) as well as the similar reported energetic potassium MOFs. To gain insights into the packing and intermolecular interactions, the Hirshfeld surface and a 2D fingerprint analysis were examined. Additionally, scanning electron microscopy was used to investigate the particle size and morphological characteristics of KDNODP. These outcomes highlight a successful method for creating 3D EMOF based on a six‐membered heterocycle as a potential heat‐resistant energetic material.
Climate policy uncertainty and firm‐level carbon dioxide emissions: Assessing the impact in the U.S. market
Authors: Borozan Djula , Pirgaip Burak
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the impact of climate policy uncertainty (CPU) on carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of 1007 listed firms over 2003–2021. As the urgency to combat climate change and implement effective policies may create uncertainty, it focuses on the Unites States, a significant emitter with a complex policy landscape. Using the two‐step system generalized method of moments estimation, the analysis reveals a negative CPU–CO2 emissions relationship, indicating that increased CPU incentivizes firms to adopt sustainable practices, leading to emissions reductions. Capital expenditures have similar effects on emissions, accompanied by increased corporate sustainability engagement. However, no significant relationship is found between research and development (R&D) expenditure and CO2 emissions, nor does CPU significantly moderate the R&D–CO2 emissions nexus. Firms with substantial fixed assets exhibit higher CO2 emissions, while heavy emitters demonstrate limited CPU responsiveness. These findings provide valuable insights for policymakers encouraging corporate participation in emissions reduction efforts.
Oil blotting paper for formalin fixation increases endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition‐collected sample volumes on glass slides
Authors: Yamai Takuo , Ikezawa Kenji , Seiki Yusuke , Watsuji Ko , Kawamoto Yasuharu , Hirao Takeru , Daiku Kazuma , Maeda Shingo , Urabe Makiko , Kai Yugo , Takada Ryoji , Mukai Kaori , Nakabori Tasuku , Uehara Hiroyuki , Tsuzaki Sayoko , Ryu Ayumi , Tanada Satoshi , Nagata Shigenori , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided tissue acquisition (EUS‐TA) is used for pathological diagnosis and obtaining samples for molecular testing, facilitating the initiation of targeted therapies in patients with pancreatic cancer. However, samples obtained via EUS‐TA are often insufficient, requiring more efforts to improve sampling adequacy for molecular testing. Therefore, this study investigated the use of oil blotting paper for formalin fixation of samples obtained via EUS‐TA.

Methods

This prospective study enrolled 42 patients who underwent EUS‐TA for pancreatic cancer between September 2020 and February 2022 at the Osaka International Cancer Institute. After a portion of each sample obtained via EUS‐TA was separated for routine histological evaluation, the residual samples were divided into filter paper and oil blotting paper groups for analysis. Accordingly, filter paper and oil blotting paper were used for the formalin fixation process. The total tissue, nuclear, and cytoplasm areas of each sample were quantitatively evaluated using virtual slides, and the specimen volume and histological diagnosis of each sample were evaluated by an expert pathologist.

Results

All cases were cytologically diagnosed as adenocarcinoma. The area ratios of the total tissue, nuclear, and cytoplasmic portions were significantly larger in the oil blotting paper group than in the filter paper group. The frequency of cases with large amount of tumor cells was significantly higher in the oil blotting paper group (33.3%) than in the filter paper group (11.9%) (p = 0.035).

Conclusions

Oil blotting paper can increase the sample volume obtained via EUS‐TA on glass slides and improve sampling adequacy for molecular testing.
Stabilizing Layered BiOBr Photoelectrocatalyst by Van Der Waals Heterojunction Strategy
Authors: Wang Mengjiao , Osella Silvio , Torre Bruno , Crisci Matteo , Schmitz Fabian , Altieri Roberto , Di Fabrizio Enzo , Amenitsch Heinz , Sartori Barbara , Liu Zheming , Gatti Teresa , Lamberti Francesco
Published: May 2024

The photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) holds immense promise as a clean and sustainable method for hydrogen production. However, finding a suitable catalyst which is efficient, stable and scalable still remains an open challenge. BiOBr is a 2D layered material studied as photoelectrocatalyst because of its suitable band gap for light absorption and potential for up‐scalable production. However, its application in HER is not commonly reported, because of instability in a cathodic PEC environment, driven by a strong tendency to reduction to metallic bismuth. To solve this problem, 2D MoS2 is used to induce the formation of a van der Waals (vdW) layered heterojunction (HJ) to stabilize the lattice of BiOBr during HER. By performing PEC HER with the HJs containing different ratios of MoS2, it is found that the HJ with 1 % MoS2 can increase the stability of BiOBr, while the one with 50 % MoS2 can even accelerate the reduction of BiOBr to metallic bismuth. DFT calculations reveal that the interface between BiOBr and MoS2 in the HJ with 1 % MoS2 tends to push active electrons on the sulfur atoms, thus favoring HER. On the other hand, in the 50 % HJ, active electrons are prone to react with BiOBr to induce reduction. In situ wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction (WAXD) on the MoS2/BiOBr HJs with 1 % and 50 % of MoS2 allows to track the phase change and the phase transfer speed of BiOBr during PEC HER. Interestingly, when the HJ is illuminated with UV light, a lower amount of BiOBr is reduced to Bi under negative potential, due to the presence of photogenerated holes reacting with the extra electrons derived from the negative bias and preventing the BiOBr photon absorber to be further reduced.
Structure Engineering of Acridine Donor to Optimize Color Purity of Blue Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters
Authors: Jiang Yixuan , Jin Jing , Ren Huicai , Liu Botao , Mei Yongqiang , Xu Min , Liu Di , Li Jiuyan
Published: May 2024

9,9‐Dimethyl‐9,10‐dihydroacridine (DMAC) is one of the most widely used electron donor for constructing high‐performance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters. However, DMAC‐based emitters often suffer from the imperfect color purity, particularly in blue emitters, due to its strong electron‐donating capability. To modulate donor strength, 2,7‐F‐Ph‐DMAC and 2,7‐CF3‐Ph‐DMAC were designed by introducing the electron‐withdrawing 2‐fluorophenyl and 2‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl at the 2,7‐positions of DMAC. These donors were used, in combination with 2,4,6‐triphenyl‐1,3,5‐triazine (TRZ) acceptor, to develop novel TADF emitters 2,7‐F‐Ph‐DMAC‐TRZ and 2,7‐CF3‐Ph‐DMAC‐TRZ. Compared to the F‐ or CF3‐free reference emitter, both two emitters showed hypsochromic effect in fluorescence and comparable photoluminescence quantum yields without sacrificing the reverse intersystem crossing rate constants. In particular, 2,7‐CF3‐Ph‐DMAC‐TRZ based OLED exhibited a blue shift by up to 39 nm and significantly improved Commission International de l′Éclairage (CIE) coordinates from (0.36, 0.55) to (0.22, 0.41), while the external quantum efficiency kept stable at about 22.5 %. This donor engineering strategy should be valid for improving the color purity of large amount of acridine based TADF emitters. It can be predicted that pure blue TADF emitters should be feasible if these F‐ or CF3‐modifed acridine donors are combined with other weaker electron acceptors.
Biocompatible Synthesis of Macrocyclic Thiazol(in)e Peptides
Authors: He Junming , Nitsche Christoph
Published: May 2024

Macrocyclic peptides containing a thiazole or thiazoline in the backbone are considered privileged structures in both natural compounds and drug discovery, owing to their enhanced bioactivity, stability, and permeability. Here, we present the biocompatible synthesis of macrocyclic peptides from N‐terminal cysteine and C‐terminal nitrile. While the N‐terminal cysteine is incorporated during solid‐phase peptide synthesis, the C‐terminal nitrile is introduced during cleavage with aminoacetonitrile, utilizing a cleavable benzotriazole linker. This method directly yields the fully functionalized linear peptide precursor. The biocompatible cyclization reaction occurs in buffer at physiological pH and room temperature. The resulting thiazoline heterocycle remains stable in buffer but hydrolyzes under acidic conditions. While such hydrolysis enables access to macrocyclic peptides with a complete amide backbone, mild oxidation of the thiazoline leads to the stable thiazole macrocyclic peptide. While conventional oxidation strategies involve metals, we developed a protocol simply relying on alkaline salt and air. Therefore, we offer a rapid and metal‐free pathway to macrocyclic thiazole peptides, featuring a biocompatible key cyclization step.
Immunotherapy for metastatic non–small cell lung cancer: Is it really a no‐brainer?
Authors: Young Lauren K. , Halmos Balazs
Published: May 2024

There is still much progress to be made in understanding the underlying mechanisms of brain metastasis development and its optimal therapy in non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC); it is very important to expand research in this area because brain metastasis strongly affects patients' quality of life and overall survival. This editorial reviews the available data in the context of a recent meta‐analysis of the pivotal IMpower130, IMpower131, and IMpower150 studies, which explores metastatic epidermal growth factor receptor and anaplastic lymphoma kinase wild‐type NSCLC to determine potential preventative factors and risk factors for the development of brain metastasis, specifically the question of whether immunotherapy (the anti–programmed death ligand 1 antibody, atezolizumab in particular) plays a role in preventing brain metastasis.
Observer‐based control for plasma glucose regulation in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients with unknown input delay
Authors: Targui Boubekeur , Castro‐Gomez Jose‐Fernando , Hernández‐González Omar , Valencia‐Palomo Guillermo , Guerrero‐Sánchez María‐Eusebia
Published: May 2024

This article introduces an observer‐based control strategy tailored for regulating plasma glucose in type 1 diabetes mellitus patients, addressing challenges like unknown time‐varying delays and meal disturbances. This control strategy is based on an extended Bergman minimal model, a nonlinear glucose‐insulin model to encompass unknown inputs, such as unplanned meals, exercise disturbances, or delays. The primary contribution lies in the design of an observer‐based state feedback control in the presence of unknown long delays, which seeks to support and enhance the performance of the traditional artificial pancreas by considering realistic scenarios. The observer and control gains for the observer‐based control are computed through linear matrix inequalities formulated from Lyapunov conditions that guarantee closed‐loop stability. This design deploys a soft and gentle dynamic response, similar to a natural pancreas, despite meal disturbances and input delays. Numerical tests demonstrate the scheme's effectiveness in glycemic level regulation and hypoglycemic episode avoidance.
Information and communication technology in smart agriculture: A scientometric review
Authors: Bala Kirti , Kaur Pankaj Deep
Published: May 2024

Agriculture has been affected by several global trends raising the concern for food security. Agri‐food demands are amplifying due to the ever‐escalating population numbers. Thus, the notion of extending the use of smart innovative technology in managing agricultural practices has emerged rapidly over the last decade. Technological innovations have contributed significantly to shape modern agriculture as smart agriculture. Smart agriculture unfolds various benefits such as increased production, real time data and production insights and remote monitoring. The rising advancements in Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) have paved the way for researchers to use these technologies in managing agricultural practices, leading to greater benefits for farmers and society. These innovations are the key to establishing agriculture as a research discipline. The purpose of this article is to conduct a scientometric analysis to study the structure and evolution of research activities in the field of smart agriculture. The scientometric analysis aims to empirically map the scientific knowledge and identify any possible challenges in the field. This study performs elementary analysis to study publication growth over the years, impact analysis to assess the leading journals, authors, and countries, and articles analysis for findings patterns among the citations over the years and among the keyword‐based clusters. There has been a considerable increase of more than 200% in the number of publications from 2011 to 2022. However, around 60% of authors have contributed with a single publication. The findings of the study reveal the research trends and hot topics for future research fronts. Deep learning, digital agriculture, object detection, blockchain, and semantic segmentation have been identified as trending topics in smart agriculture. Comprehensively, an intellectual view of the agriculture domain is presented as a scientific field in this article.
Psychological Group Interventions for Reducing Distress Symptoms in Healthcare Workers: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sanz Sandra , Valiente Carmen , Espinosa Regina , Trucharte Almudena
Published: May 2024

Healthcare workers exposed to emergencies and chronic stressors are at high risk of developing mental health problems. This review synthesized existing studies of group psychological therapy to reduce distress symptoms in healthcare workers (i.e., as complex and heterogeneous emotional states, characterized by the presence of symptoms associated with post‐traumatic stress disorder, burnout, anxiety, depression and moral injury). Searches were conducted using PRISMA guidelines and databases such as PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline and Web of Science, along with manual searches of reference lists of relevant articles. The search returned a total of 1071 randomized trials, of which 23 met the inclusion criteria. Of the total studies, nine were mindfulness interventions, seven were cognitive behavioural programmes, one was a programme based on acceptance and commitment therapy, one was an EMDR protocol and two focused on systemic and art therapy. Most studies aimed to reduce burnout, anxiety and depression; only three focused on post‐traumatic stress disorder, and no studies were found that addressed moral injury. The results suggested that group interventions could be an effective tool to improve the mental health of healthcare workers and reduce their symptoms of distress, although many of the studies have methodological deficiencies. Limitations and future directions are discussed.
Predicting grass proportion in fresh alfalfa: Grass mixtures using a hand‐held near‐infrared spectrometer
Authors: Tacoma‐Fogal Rink , Boggess May , Cherney Jerome. H. , Digman Mathew , Cherney Debbie J. R.
Published: May 2024

Technological advancements have made hand‐held near infrared (NIR) spectrometers more affordable and more accurate, creating interest in on‐farm application for forage management. The objective of this study was to evaluate the ability of a hand‐held NIR spectrometer to predict grass percentage within fresh alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.):grass mixtures. Forage samples were collected at a range of maturities and varieties during the 2021 and 2022 growing seasons from multiple locations in New York. Fresh forage samples were chopped, and pure species were combined into known proportions on a dry matter basis, resulting in 534 samples. Analysis was carried out on NIR spectra collected from a hand‐held NeoSpectra spectrometer using stationary and sliding scanning techniques. Development of calibration models was completed using partial least squares regression with cross validation. The best performing calibration model using absorbance was from the sliding scanning technique with preprocessing consisting of mean‐centering (R2 = 0.89, root mean square error of prediction [RMSEP] = 13.7%, and ratio of prediction to deviation = 2.53). A total of 84% of the samples were correctly classified when the grass component was lower than 40%. For samples with the grass component above 40%, a total of 94% of the samples were correctly classified. Correct sample classification is critical considering that the extension recommendation in New York is to reseed alfalfa fields when the grass component exceeds 40% of the sward on a botanical composition basis. This research demonstrates that NIR technology has potential to provide the agricultural industry with rapid, non‐destructive, and affordable information to allow farmers and consultants to predict grass proportion within alfalfa:grass fresh forage mixtures in real time.
Roles of glutamic pyruvate transaminase 2 in reprogramming of airway epithelial lipidomic and metabolomic profiles after smoking
Authors: Yan Furong , Zhang Linlin , Duan Lian , Li Liyang , Liu Xuanqi , Liu Yifei , Qiao Tiankui , Zeng Yiming , Fang Hao , Wu Duojiao , Wang Xiangdong
Published: May 2024

Metabolic abnormalities represent one of the pathological features of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Glutamic pyruvate transaminase 2 (GPT2) is involved in glutamate metabolism and lipid synthesis pathways, whilst the exact roles of GPT2 in the occurrence and development of COPD remains uncertain. This study aims at investigating how GPT2 and the associated genes modulate smoking‐induced airway epithelial metabolism and damage by reprogramming lipid synthesis. The circulating or human airway epithelial metabolomic and lipidomic profiles of COPD patients or cell‐lines explored with smoking were assessed to elucidate the pivotal roles of GPT2 in reprogramming processes. We found that GPT2 regulate the reprogramming of lipid metabolisms caused by smoking, especially phosphatidylcholine (PC) and triacylglycerol (TAG), along with changes in the expression of lipid metabolism‐associated genes. GPT2 modulated cell sensitivities and survival in response to smoking by enhancing mitochondrial functions and maintaining lipid and energy homeostasis. Our findings provide evidence for the involvement of GPT2 in the reprogramming of airway epithelial lipids following smoking, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying GPT2‐mediated regulation, which may offer an alternative of therapeutic strategies for chronic lung diseases.
Flow cytometry for meningeal infiltration in B acute lymphoblastic leukemia in a low middle income country
Authors: Anane Eya , Lakhal Fatma Ben , Salem Sarra Fekih , Ghali Ons , Feki Emna , Abdennebi Yosr Ben , Bahri Marwa , Azza Emna , Aissaoui Lamia , El Borgi Wijden , Gouider Emna
Published: May 2024

Meningeal infiltration in children with B acute lymphoblastic leukemia is one of the most serious complications. Timely diagnosis not only significantly enhances treatment efficacy but also leads to improve patient outcome and reduce risk of relapse. This is particularly crucial in low to middle income countries facing health constraints, where optimizing resources is essential. Conventional cytology (CC) study of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is considered in different countries to be the Gold‐standard despite its low sensitivity (< 50%). The study of CSF by multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) appears to be an alternative. The aim of our study was to assess MFC analytical performance compared with CC. Our cross sectional study was conducted over a six‐month period in the biological hematology department. CSF samples underwent analysis for the presence of blasts using both CC and MFC. Cytological slides of the CSF were prepared by cytocentrifugation in a Shandon Cytospin 4™. Flow cytometric analysis was performed on the BD FACSLyric™ flow cytometer. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 21.0 (SPSS Inc.). Agreement between the two methods was made using the Kappa index and χ2 test. This study was approved by the local ethics committee. Sixty CSF samples from 39 children with B acute lymphoblastic leukemia were analyzed. Meningeal infiltration was detected respectively in 20% of cases by MFC and 5% of cases by CC, with a significant difference p = 0.006. Comparing the two methods, the Kappa coefficient was 0.35, indicating weak agreement between the two methods. Moreover, MFC positivity was higher even for hypocellular samples. Of the 51 hypocellular samples, eight were positive by MFC while they were negative by CC. MFC shows better sensitivity while retaining good specificity for the detection of meningeal involvement. MFC could therefore be a complementary method to CC for detecting blast cells in the central nervous system.
Lion lords and sharing hyaenas: Carnivore guild dynamics around elephant carcasses
Authors: Honiball Terry‐Lee , Davis Robert S. , Ntlokwana Liyabona , Venter Jan A.
Published: May 2024

Megaherbivore carcasses represent sporadic but energetically rewarding resources for carnivores, offering a unique opportunity to study coexistence dynamics between facultative scavengers. South African fenced protected areas, such as Madikwe Game Reserve (Madikwe hereafter), host viable populations of large carnivores and high densities of elephants, Loxodonta africana. However, high carnivore densities can lead to potentially fatal interspecific encounters and increased competition, particularly around high‐quality trophic resources. This study explores the temporal partitioning and co‐detection strategies of carnivores at six elephant carcasses in Madikwe, aiming to understand how the increased carrion biomass available at elephant carcasses influences coexistence dynamics. Camera traps were deployed to monitor carcasses during two periods (2019 and 2020), revealing occurrences of six carnivore species. Carnivores, particularly black‐backed jackals, Lupulella mesomelas, (hereafter jackal), lions, Panthera leo, and spotted hyaenas, Crocuta crocuta, comprised 56.7% of carcass observations, highlighting their pivotal roles in scavenging dynamics. Pairwise co‐detection analysis demonstrated consistent association and shared peak activity periods between jackals and spotted hyaenas, indicating potential resource sharing. However, the minimal co‐detection rates between lions and other carnivores highlight their resource domination. There was some evidence of temporal partitioning between carnivores, with most species exhibiting earlier peaks in nocturnal activity to avoid temporal overlap with lions. This study emphasises the importance of elephant carcasses in the diet of multiple species and coexistence techniques utilised to exploit this ephemeral resource. As fenced protected areas become crucial for conserving intact carnivore guilds globally, further research into carnivore behavioural adaptations at carcasses is recommended to shed light on their coexistence strategies.
Myricetin and dihydromyricetin as JNK1 inhibitors protect against ROS‐mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis
Authors: Hao Rili , Song Xinyu , Li Yajie , Lin Xinru , Guan Hui , Sun‐Waterhouse Dongxiao , Li Dapeng
Published: May 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis contribute to the pathogenesis and pathological conditions of various diseases induced by food and environmental pollutants. Myricetin and dihydromyricetin, as natural flavonoids, can counteract oxidative damage, apoptosis, and associated diseases. Molecular docking analysis, ELISA, fluorescence spectroscopy, and Western blot techniques were applied to examine the potential of the two flavonoids as effective therapeutics for ROS‐mediated diseases and the mechanism(s) underlying their protective effects against ethanol/H2O2‐induced damage. In Kunming mice and HepG2 cells, myricetin and dihydromyricetin inhibited ethanol/H2O2‐induced liver damage, ROS accumulation, and oxidative stress and apoptosis. Molecular docking showed that myricetin and dihydromyricetin interacted with JNK1 via hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds, thereby exerting their protective effects. The significant differences in their binding patterns to JNK1 resulted from the different bond types between C2 and C3 on their C ring. Myricetin and dihydromyricetin likely protected liver injury via counteracting ROS/JNK1‐mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis. The finding that the suppression of ROS‐mediated oxidative stress and apoptosis by flavonoids via interacting with functional proteins, such as kinase, may represent an alternative strategy for treating excessive ROS‐induced health problems.
SR‐BI regulates the synergistic mast cell response by modulating the plasma membrane‐associated cholesterol pool
Authors: Capellmann Sandro , Kauffmann Marlies , Arock Michel , Huber Michael
Published: May 2024

The high‐affinity IgE receptor FcεRI is the mast cell (MC) receptor responsible for the involvement of MCs in IgE‐associated allergic disorders. Activation of the FcεRI is achieved via crosslinking by multivalent antigen (Ag) recognized by IgE resulting in degranulation and proinflammatory cytokine production. In comparison to the T‐ and B‐cell receptor complexes, for which several co‐receptors orchestrating the initial signaling events have been described, information is scarce about FcεRI‐associated proteins. Additionally, it is unclear how FcεRI signaling synergizes with input from other receptors and how regulators affect this synergistic response. We found that the HDL receptor SR‐BI (gene name: Scarb1/SCARB1) is expressed in MCs, functionally associates with FcεRI, and regulates the plasma membrane cholesterol content in cholesterol‐rich plasma membrane nanodomains. This impacted the activation of MCs upon co‐stimulation of the FcεRI with receptors known to synergize with FcεRI signaling. Amongst them, we investigated the co‐activation of the FcεRI with the receptor tyrosine kinase KIT, the IL‐33 receptor, and GPCRs activated by adenosine or PGE2. Scarb1‐deficient bone marrow‐derived MCs showed reduced cytokine secretion upon co‐stimulation conditions suggesting a role for plasma membrane‐associated cholesterol regulating respective MC activation. Mimicking Scarb1 deficiency by cholesterol depletion employing MβCD, we identified PKB and PLCγ1 as cholesterol‐sensitive proteins downstream of FcεRI activation in bone marrow‐derived MCs. When MCs were co‐stimulated with stem cell factor (SCF) and Ag, PLCγ1 activation was boosted, which could be mitigated by cholesterol depletion and SR‐BI inhibition. Similarly, SR‐BI inhibition attenuated the synergistic response to PGE2 and anti‐IgE in the human ROSAKIT WT MC line, suggesting that SR‐BI is a crucial regulator of synergistic MC activation.
Pivotal role of polylactide in carbon emission reduction: A comprehensive review
Authors: Mosomi Everlyn Kerubo , Olanrewaju Oludolapo Akanni , Adeosun Samson Oluropo
Published: May 2024

This review paper explores the diverse applications of polylactide or polylactic acid (PLA) and its contributions to environmental sustainability. It delves into the synthesis, properties, and numerous applications of PLA, accompanied by illustrative examples demonstrating its ability to reduce carbon emissions. The environmentally friendly characteristics of PLA, coupled with its versatility, make it a vital player in the ongoing efforts to combat climate change. PLA generally requires lower extrusion temperatures than other 3D printing materials, such as ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene). Lower extrusion temperatures lead to reduced energy consumption during the printing process thus the reduction in carbon dioxide emissions during production. Plants, such as corn and sugarcane, play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during their growth cycle. When these plants are utilized to produce PLA, the captured CO2 remains sequestered within the plastic material. This contributes to offsetting CO2 emissions from other sources. In conclusion, the usage of PLA has demonstrated positive contributions to the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions through its renewable sourcing, lower extrusion temperatures, lower dependence on fossil fuels, reduced greenhouse gas emissions during production, biodegradability, and participation in a closed carbon cycle.
Thermal and calorimetric investigations of some vegetative fuels
Authors: Moinuddin Khalid , Arun Malavika , Filkov Alex , Joseph Paul , Guerrieri Maurice
Published: May 2024

Bushfires pose a significant threat to numerous countries, often causing vast property damages and loss of lives. Efforts to combat and manage these fires heavily rely on predicting the fires' rate of spread and intensity. A significant component of these predictions involves understanding the thermophysical characteristics of vegetative fuels. The accuracy of predictive models (especially physical models) also depends on obtaining precise thermophysical and combustion parameters. This research aims to provide a comprehensive set of thermal degradation and combustion parameters for surface and near‐surface fuel samples collected during prescribed fire experiment conducted in April 2022 in Little Desert National Park, Victoria, Australia. Firstly, fuel properties like fuel height, moisture content, bulk density, fuel load and heat of combustion were meticulously characterized for both surface and near‐surface samples. Then activation energies for degradation reactions were determined using the Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method and for the determination of pre‐exponential factors, in most cases these reactions closely aligned with a Second order model. This was followed by determination of other parameters such as heat of reaction, specific heat and conductivity. It was found that the density, activation energy and heat of combustion did not vary significantly across the six samples under question. The comprehensive set of obtained parameters will likely help to facilitate better predictions in fire propagation modelling.
Groundwater, salt and contaminant transport in a coastal aquifer system with a low‐permeability layer in the intertidal zone
Authors: Li Congrui , Gibbes Badin , Liu Yue , Liu Xiaocheng , Zhang Chenming
Published: May 2024

Low‐permeability layer (LPL), formed by natural deposit or artificial reclamation and commonly found below the intertidal zone of coastal groundwater system, can retard the ingress of seawater and contaminants, and shorten the travel time of the land‐sourced contaminant to the marine environment compared with a homogenous sandy coastal aquifer. However, there is limited understanding on how an intertidal LPL, a condition occurred in a coastal aquifer at Moreton Bay, Australia, influences the groundwater and contaminant transport across the shallow beach aquifer system. We characterized the aquifer hydrological parameters, monitored the in situ groundwater heads, and constructed a 2‐D numerical model to analyses the cross‐shore hydrological processes in this stratified system. The calibrated model suggests that in the lower aquifer, the inland‐source fresh groundwater flowed horizontally towards the sea, upwelled along the freshwater–saltwater interface, and exited the aquifer at the shore below the LPL. Whereas in the upper aquifer, the tidally driven seawater circulation formed a barrier that prevented fresh groundwater from horizontal transport and discharge to the beach above the LPL, thereby directing its leakage to the lower aquifer. A contaminant represented by a conservative tracer was ‘released’ the upper aquifer in the model and results showed that the spreading extent of the contaminant plume, the maximum rate of contaminant discharge to the ocean, and its plume length decreased compared with a simulation case in a homogenous sandy aquifer. Sensitivity analysis was also conducted to investigate the characteristics of the LPL, including its continuity and hydraulic conductivity, which were found to vary along the beach at Moreton Bay. The result shows that with a lower hydraulic conductivity and continuous layer of LPL reduced the groundwater exchange and contaminant transport between upper and lower aquifer. The findings from the combined field and modelling investigations on the impact of an intertidal LPL on coastal aquifer systems highlight its significant implications to alter the groundwater and mass transport across the land–ocean interface.
Lake surface and downstream river temperature response to the retreat of a lake‐terminating glacier
Authors: Pelto B. M. , Browning B. , Bird L. , Moyer A. N. , Moore R. Dan
Published: May 2024

Glacier contributions to streamflow moderate summer water temperatures and help keep rivers cool during periods of hot, dry weather. As glaciers retreat, the length of channel exposed to solar radiation above a given point of interest would increase, which should ultimately result in higher water temperatures. However, formation of proglacial lakes may complicate river temperature response to glacier retreat. This study examined river and lake temperature response to the retreat of lake‐terminating Bridge Glacier, British Columbia, using a combination of manual spot and continuous river temperatures at a stream gauge, lake surface temperatures derived from Landsat imagery, and in situ lake temperatures made during a field campaign during summer 2013. Temperature data spanned the period from 1984 to 2022. Lake and river temperatures were relatively constant prior to and during a period of rapid retreat, but exhibited an upward trend following 2012, when iceberg density declined due to an apparent decrease in calving rate, resulting in an increase in lake surface area and river temperature of about 5°C even though the glacier remained lake terminating. In addition to providing the first longitudinal study of water temperature response to the retreat of a lake‐terminating glacier, this study adds to a body of literature that demonstrates that routine spot river temperatures, if collected in a consistent manner over a number of years, can provide valid information about river and stream temperature trends.
Developmental uterovaginal anomalies and histologic findings in transgender patients receiving gender‐affirming hysterectomies: A large case series
Authors: Nguyen Nghiem H. , Kim Hoejeong , Tran Christina , Sumida Megan , Lansdowne Elisa , Galzote‐Carino Rosanna
Published: May 2024

Objective

To describe the incidence of uterovaginal anomalies and histologic findings in transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) patients seeking hysterectomies.

Methods

All patients receiving gender‐affirming hysterectomies between 2013 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Primary outcomes included uterovaginal anomalies and histological findings. Multivariable logistic regressions were performed to evaluate relationships between variables of interest and whether they predict findings of uterovaginal anomalies, inactive endometrium, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, endometriosis, and cervical atrophy.

Results

278 patients received hysterectomies at an average age of 29.2 ± 8.3 years. Seven patients (2.5%) were found to have a developmental anomaly, including two bicornuate uterus (0.7%), two unicornuate uterus (0.7%), one septate uterus (0.4%), and two vaginal septum (0.7%). 60 patients (21.6%) were found to have inactive endometrium and 26 patients (9.4%) had cervical atrophy. Although 262 patients (94.2%) were on testosterone therapy, hormone duration was not a significant predictor of any uterine findings.

Conclusion

This study describes uterovaginal anomalies in a large cohort of patients receiving gender‐affirming hysterectomies. Although long‐term testosterone use is commonly believed to be associated with endometrial and cervical atrophy, this study shows no such association.
Elective induction of labor versus expectant management at 39 weeks among low‐risk nulliparous pregnant women: A randomized controlled trial in India (ELITE‐39 trial)
Authors: Lalithadevi Palaparthi , Rengaraj Sasirekha , Dasari Paapa , Adhisivam Bethovu
Published: May 2024

Objective

The aim of the present open label randomized controlled trial was to compare the rate of cesarean section (CS) after elective induction with that of expectant management in low‐risk nulliparous women at 39 weeks.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial from a tertiary maternity care center enrolled low risk nulliparous pregnant women at 38–38+4 weeks between April 1, 2019 and December 31, 2021. Participants were randomized into either the elective induction group (e‐IOL) or the expectant management (EM) group though computer generated block randomization. The primary outcome was cesarean rate and the secondary outcome include adverse maternal and perinatal outcome between e‐IOL and EM groups. We performed intention to treat analysis.

Results

A total of 360 women were enrolled into the present study. Analysis was performed for 179 women in the e‐IOL group and 180 women in the EM group. The baseline demographic characteristics including Bishop score were comparable between the groups. The CS rate in both groups was 17.3% (31/179) and 25% (45/180), which is comparable (P = 0.08). There was one intrapartum stillbirth in the e‐IOL group, and two babies succumbed in the neonatal period in the EM group. The maternal and perinatal outcomes between the groups were not found to be significantly different.

Conclusion

Elective induction of low‐risk nulliparous women at 39 weeks was not associated with increased cesarean section rate. The maternal and perinatal outcomes were comparable. Large, multicentric real time randomized controlled trials are needed to understand the benefit of elective induction in low‐risk nulliparous women. This should include centers with large volume of deliveries especially from emerging countries also.
Adolescents' use of digital media during the pandemic: Implications for literacy
Authors: Lim Fei Victor , Loh Chin Ee , Teravainen Taina
Published: May 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic and the subsequent lockdown measures in many countries have increased young people's engagement with digital media. The digital divide goes beyond just having devices and includes differences in how well young people can use digital technology. In this paper, we shift our attention beyond screen time to the nature of the adolescents' digital media use. Our study looks at two adolescents from different backgrounds to understand how their digital media experiences differ in viewing, play, and reading. We add to the literature on the influence SES has on the ways in which adolescents are using digital media during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Singapore. Our study was conducted during the pandemic and participants were selected using convenience stratified sampling and the snowballing method. Our findings show that the adolescents' digital viewing was motivated by the need to be a part of an affinity group and that while the viewing was passive, it served a social function to develop a sense of connectedness with peers. We also found that adolescents from high socioeconomic backgrounds tended to engage in more digital reading compared to their peers from low socioeconomic backgrounds. In addition, while the adolescents' digital play was shaped by their socioeconomic realities, they were able to make the most from their circumstances and demonstrated both creativity and savviness. By demonstrating the disparities in digital media experiences between two adolescents from contrastive socioeconomic backgrounds, we shed light on the implications of the digital divide, where both equitable access to digital resources and the development of digital literacies necessary to navigate the digital landscape is currently lacking. We argue for the importance for researchers and policymakers to move beyond acknowledging long‐standing concerns and take actionable steps to address these issues.