bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Daycare shooting in Thailand: Time to address firearm violence as a global health issue
Authors: Budi Yasmine Syifa Nabila , Cathleen Fabiola , Jitanan Manatee , Butkatunyoo Oraphan , Miranda Adriana Viola
Published: June 2023

On 6 October 2022, a daycare shooting incident happened in Thailand. It is the deadliest mass shooting in Southeast Asian (SEA) countries and one of the many incidents contributing to the global epidemic of firearm‐related preventable violence. Although firearm violence is commonly associated with the United States, it is also a problem worldwide, causing long‐lasting health issues and huge economic burden. This is due to the root causes of firearm violence transcending national boundaries, including socioeconomic landscape, political dynamics, and globalization. Considering these and the major public health impacts of firearm violence, firearm violence should be prioritized as a global health issue. We identified public health challenges related to global firearm violence management: inadequate regulation, lack of official firearm surveillance, and inadequate access to mental health care. In Thailand, there is a gap in gun ownership policies for the civilian and government personnel and a relatively less strict background check compared to other SEA countries. It is crucial for the governments to strengthen their firearm regulations and invest in appropriate public health interventions, including improving access to mental health services and conducting firearm‐related surveillance and culturally sensitive awareness programs. Various public health stakeholders, including healthcare workers and local communities, should be engaged to effectively mitigate future firearm violence.
Electrochemical Quantification of Tyrosine in the Presence of Analogous Amino Acids
Authors: Amani‐Beni Zahra , Nezamzadeh‐Ejhieh Alireza
Published: June 2023

Amnio acids are essential for body life, and thus, introducing novel simples/sensitive techniques/catalyst for detecting their low levels, especially in real samples and mixtures, is a great issue in analytical/bioanalytical chemistry. Thus, NiO nanoparticles were synthesized and used for the modification of a carbon paste electrode (CPE) for the square wave voltammetric (SqW) determination of tyrosine (Tyr) in the presence of tryptophan (Tryp), phenylalanine (PhA), and cysteine (Cis) amino acids (AA), all having the −CH2−CH(NH2)−COOH functional group. The calibration sensitivity was increased in interfering AA species which caused the decreased detection (for example, detection limit (DL) 1.32 μM to 0.88 μM Tyr) and quantification limits. For different concentrations of interfering AA species, the linear range (LR) was decreased that was more intense with an increase in AA amount. For example, the LR of 5–1800 μM Tyr in the absence of other AA species was changed to 80–800, 90–850, and 70 −1000 μM Tyr in the presence of 20 mM Tyr, Csy, and PhA, respectively. A g‐value of 0.487<g0.05,6,5=0.5875 confirmed the long‐term stability of the electrode for 4 months. The electrode showed good selectivity towards Tyr in the presence of some amino acids and inorganic salts. Recovery experiments also confirmed the good capability of the electrode in Tyr quantification in a complex matrix such as six human serums used.
Substituted Benzalacetophenone Molecules: A Computational Investigation of Structural, PED & Non‐Linear Optical Properties
Authors: Mughal Ehsan Ullah , Naeem Nafeesa , Kausar Samia , Al‐Rooqi Munirah M. , Jassas Rabab S. , Sadiq Amina , Altaf Ataf Ali , Obaid Rami J. , Ahmed Saleh A.
Published: June 2023

This protocol presents a complete theoretical study on the substituted benzalacetophenone molecules. In this study, eighteen chalcone derivatives1–18were evaluated with respect to their first‐ and second‐order hyperpolarizability parameters. For this purpose, the molecular geometries of1–18were optimized using set 631 g (d,p) and hybrid functional B3LYP. Spectroscopic characterizations for1–18were executed through the calculations of IR, UV‐Vis,1H NMR and13C NMR spectra. The quantum chemical parameters such as chemical potential, chemical hardness, electronegativity and electrophilicity indexes were obtained using the frontier molecular orbital (FMO) energies. The potential energy distribution (PED) analysis was used to provide a detailed assignment of vibrational bands. Important contributions to electronic absorption bands from FMOs were also evaluated. The distribution of FMOs to the whole molecule was investigated to determine the nature of electronic charge transfers in the target structures. The static and dynamic first‐ and second‐order hyperpolarizability parameters for1–18were calculated by using CAM‐B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p). The static β and γ were calculated at the ranges of 1.348–2.967×10−29 esu and 82.50–136.2×10−36 esu. This wide range of β and γ values indicates that chalcone derivatives with rational substitution may be promising candidates for first‐ and second‐order NLO applications. The findings of this study contribute to the understanding of the relationships between molecular structure and non‐linear optical properties, thus paving the way for the design of new materials with improved non‐linear optical properties.
Facile Selective Acetylation of Primary Alcohols Using Ethyl Acetate in Acidic Medium
Authors: Ferreira Pereira da Silva Igor , Cavalcante dos Santos Giló Larissa , Campos Reis Analú , Raimundo da Rocha Jéssica , de Oliveira Adeildo Junior , Fonseca Goulart Henrique , Barbosa Bernardo Vanderson , Euzébio Goulart Santana Antônio
Published: June 2023

Esters are demanded in a varied range of human industries and, although the classical methods for their production have been known since the late 19th century, the search for improved and sustainable protocols to prepare this class of compounds is yet invaluable. An efficient, fast and straightforward method has been stablished, using TsOH and EtOAc for the acetylation of primary alcohols, with yields ranging from 81 to 98 %, depending on the groups near the hydroxyl group. A slight variation of the protocol might also be applied to secondary alcohols with moderate to high yields (65 to 91 %). Finally, the methodology can be used to selectively acetylate primary and secondary alcohols in the presence of tertiary or phenolic hydroxyl groups.
Unveiling Superior Capacitive Behaviors of One‐Pot Molten Salt‐Engineered B, N Co‐Doped Porous Carbon Sheets
Authors: Liu Huichao , Zhu Sheng , Zhang Yu , Song Hua , Zhang Ying , Chang Yunzhen , Hou Wenjing , Han Gaoyi
Published: June 2023

Heteroatom‐doped porous carbon materials with distinctive surface properties and capacitive behavior have been accepted as promising candidates for supercapacitor electrodes. Currently, the researches mainly focus on developing facile synthetic method and unveiling the structure‐activity relationship to further elevate their capacitive performance. Here, the B, N co‐doped porous carbon sheet (BN‐PCS) is constructed by one‐pot pyrolysis of agar in KCl/KHCO3 molten salt system. In this process, the urea acts as directing agent to guide the formation of 2D sheet morphology, and the decomposition of KHCO3 and boric acid creates rich micro‐ and mesopores in the carbon framework. The specific capacitance of optimized BN‐PCS reaches 361.1 F g−1 at a current density of 0.5 A g−1 in an aqueous KOH electrolyte. Impressively, the fabricated symmetrical supercapacitor affords a maximum energy density of 43.5 Wh kg−1 at the power density of 375.0 W kg−1 in 1.0 mol L−1 TEABF4/AN electrolyte. It also achieves excellent long‐term stability with capacitance retention of 91.1% and Columbic efficiency of 100% over 10 000 cycles. This study indicates one‐pot molten salt method is effective in engineering advanced carbon materials for high‐performance energy storage devices.
LiMgPO4‐Coating‐Induced Phosphate Shell and Bulk Mg‐Doping Enables Stable Ultra‐High‐Voltage Cycling of LiCoO2 Cathode
Authors: Zhong Jiajie , Zhao Wenguang , Zhang Minghao , Yin Zu‐Wei , Zhuo Zengqing , Zhang Shaojian , Zhang Mingjian , Pan Feng , Zhang Bingkai , Lin Zhan
Published: June 2023

Stable cycling of LiCoO2 (LCO) cathode at high voltage is extremely challenging due to the notable structural instability in deeply delithiated states. Here, using the sol–gel coating method, LCO materials (LMP‐LCO) are obtained with bulk Mg‐doping and surface LiMgPO4/Li3PO4 (LMP/LPO) coating. The experimental results suggest that the simultaneous modification in the bulk and at the surface is demonstrated to be highly effective in improving the high‐voltage performance of LCO. LMP‐LCO cathodes deliver 149.8 mAh g−1@4.60 V and 146.1 mAh g−1@4.65 V after 200 cycles at 1 C. For higher cut‐off voltages, 4.70 and 4.80 V, LMP‐LCO cathodes still achieve 144.9 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles and 136.8 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 1 C, respectively. Bulk Mg‐dopants enhance the ionicity of CoO bond by tailoring the band centers of Co 3d and O 2p, promoting stable redox on O2−, and thus enhancing stable cycling at high cut‐off voltages. Meanwhile, LMP/LPO surface coating suppresses detrimental surface side reactions while allowing facile Li‐ion diffusion. The mechanism of high‐voltage cycling stability is investigated by combining experimental characterizations and theoretical calculations. This study proposes a strategy of surface‐to‐bulk simultaneous modification to achieve superior structural stability at high voltages.
An Intelligent Vascular Disrupting Dendritic Nanodevice Incorporating Copper Sulfide Nanoparticles for Immune Modulation‐Mediated Combination Tumor Therapy
Authors: Zhang Yiming , Ouyang Zhijun , Zhan Mengsi , Yang Rui , Gao Yue , Li Lulu , Guo Rui , Shi Xiangyang , Cao Xueyan
Published: June 2023

Development of intelligent nanoplatforms that can simultaneously target multiple factors associated with tumor growth and metastasis remains an extreme challenge. Here, an intelligent dendritic nanodevice incorporating both copper sulfide nanoparticles (CuS NPs) and 5,6‐dimethylxanthenone‐4‐acetic acid (DMXAA, a vascular disrupting agent) within the dendrimer internal cavities and surface modified with a targeting agent LyP‐1 peptide is reported. The resulting generation 5 (G5) dendrimer‐based nanodevice, known as G5‐PEG‐LyP‐1‐CuS‐DMXAA NPs (GLCD NPs), possess good colloidal stability, pH‐sensitive drug release kinetics, and high photothermal conversion efficiency (59.3%). These functional GLCD NPs exert a LyP‐1‐targeted killing effect on breast tumors by combining CuS‐mediated photothermal therapy (PTT) and DMXAA‐induced vascular disruption, while also triggering antitumor immune responses through PTT‐induced immunogenic cell death and DMXAA‐mediated immune regulation via M1 polarization of tumor‐associated macrophages and dendritic cell maturation. In addition, with the LyP‐1‐mediated proapoptotic activity, the GLCD NPs can specifically kill tumor lymphatic endothelial cells. The simultaneous disruption of tumor blood vessels and lymphatic vessels cuts off the two main pathways of tumor metastasis, which plays a two‐pronged role in inhibiting lung metastasis of the breast cancer model. Thus, the developed GLCD NPs represent an advanced intelligent nanoformulation for immune modulation‐mediated combination tumor therapy with potential for clinical translations.
Thickness‐Dependent Superconductivity in a Layered Electride on Silicon
Authors: Averyanov Dmitry V. , Sokolov Ivan S. , Parfenov Oleg E. , Taldenkov Alexander N. , Karateev Igor A. , Kondratev Oleg A. , Tokmachev Andrey M. , Storchak Vyacheslav G.
Published: June 2023

Layered materials exhibit a plethora of fascinating properties. The challenge is to make the materials into epitaxial films, preferably integrated with mature technological platforms to facilitate their potential applications. Progress in this direction can establish the film thickness as a valuable parameter to control various phenomena, superconductivity in particular. Here, a synthetic route to epitaxial films of SrAlSi, a layered superconducting electride, on silicon is designed. A set of films ranging in thickness is synthesized employing a silicene‐based template. Their structure and superconductivity are explored by a combination of techniques. Two regimes of TC dependence on the film thickness are identified, the coherence length being the crossover parameter. The results can be extended to syntheses of other honeycomb‐lattice ternary compounds on Si or Ge exhibiting superconducting, magnetic, and other properties.
Electrocatalytic Mechanism of Defect in Spinels for Water and Organics Oxidation
Authors: Liu Zhijuan , Kong Zhijie , Cui Shasha , Liu Luyu , Wang Fen , Wang Yanyong , Wang Shuangyin , Zang Shuang‐quan
Published: June 2023

Spinels display promising electrocatalytic ability for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and organics oxidation reaction because of flexible structure, tunable component, and multifold valence. Unfortunately, limited exposure of active sites, poor electronic conductivity, and low intrinsic ability make the electrocatalytic performance of spinels unsatisfactory. Defect engineering is an effective method to enhance the intrinsic ability of electrocatalysts. Herein, the recent advances in defect spinels for OER and organics electrooxidation are reviewed. The defect types that exist in spinels are first introduced. Then the catalytic mechanism and dynamic evolution of defect spinels during the electrochemical process are summarized in detail. Finally, the challenges of defect spinel electrocatalysts are brought up. This review aims to deepen the understanding about the role and evolution of defects in spinel for electrochemical water/organics oxidation and provide a significant reference for the design of efficient defect spinel electrocatalysts.
Black Ultra‐Thin Crystalline Silicon Wafers Reach the 4n2 Absorption Limit–Application to IBC Solar Cells
Authors: Garín M. , Pasanen T. P. , López G. , Vähänissi V. , Chen K. , Martín I. , Savin H.
Published: June 2023

Cutting costs by progressively decreasing substrate thickness is a common theme in the crystalline silicon photovoltaic  industry for the last decades, since drastically thinner wafers would significantly reduce the substrate‐related costs. In addition to the technological challenges concerning wafering and handling of razor‐thin flexible wafers, a major bottleneck is to maintain high absorption in those thin wafers. For the latter, advanced light‐trapping techniques become of paramount importance. Here we demonstrate that by applying state‐of‐the‐art black‐Si nanotexture produced by DRIE on thin uncommitted wafers, the maximum theoretical absorption (Yablonovitch's 4n2 absorption limit), that is, ideal light trapping, is reached with wafer thicknesses as low as 40, 20, and 10 µm when paired with a back reflector. Due to the achieved promising optical properties the results are implemented into an actual thin interdigitated back contacted solar cell. The proof‐of‐concept cell, encapsulated in glass, achieved a 16.4% efficiency with an JSC = 35 mA cm−2, representing a 43% improvement in output power with respect to the reference polished cell. These results demonstrate the vast potential of black silicon nanotexture in future extremely‐thin silicon photovoltaics.
Constructing Heterostructure through Bidentate Coordination toward Operationally Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Caiyi , Guo Ting , Ono Luis K. , Yuan Shuai , Wu Tianhao , Wang Hengyuan , Zhang Jiahao , Liu Xiaomin , Huo Xiaomin , Zhang Congyang , Ding Chenfeng , Li Tongtong , Wang Yanbo , Han Liyuan , Qi Yabing
Published: June 2023

It has been reported that one of the influencing factors leading to stability issues in iodine‐containing perovskite solar cells is the iodine loss from the perovskite layer. Herein, bidentate coordination is used with undercoordinated I− of the perovskite surface to construct the stable perovskite‐based heterostructure. This strong halogen bonding effectively inhibits interfacial migration of I− into functional layers such as C60 and Ag. Moreover, passivation of the undercoordinated I− suppresses the release of I2 and further delays the formation of voids at the perovskite surface. The resulting inverted perovskite solar cell exhibits a power conversion efficiency of 22.59% and the unencapsulated device maintains 96.15% of its initial value after continuous operation for 500 h under illumination.
Short Wavelength Photons Destroying Si–H Bonds and Its Influence on High‐Efficiency Silicon Solar Cells and Modules
Authors: Ye Haoran , Huang Shenglei , Qian Cheng , Sun Zehua , Chen Yang , Song Xinyao , Zhang Yutong , Wang Na , Hu Yu , Yang Yanyun , Li Lei , Ma Zhu , Chen Tao , Liu Wenzhu , Yu Jian
Published: June 2023

Photons of varying wavelengths exert substantial effects on silicon heterojunction (SHJ) solar cells. Collaborative research previously establishes that light soaking with long‐wavelength photons can activate boron doping in hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H), thereby augmenting cell efficiency (Eff). Herein, this investigation is extended, exploring the effects of short‐wavelength photons on a‐Si:H layers, SHJ solar cells, and modules. The ultraviolet A (UVA) light with the wavelengths peak of 365 nm can disrupt Si–H bonds, resulting in a notable reduction in hydrogen content within both intrinsic and doped a‐Si:H films, and the deterioration of deteriorated interface passivation. Following exposure to 60 kWh m−2 of UVA light, both Eff and module power output decrease significantly, primarily attributable to the degradation of open‐circuit voltage and fill factor. As a feasible solution, the application of a light‐soaking process or the implementation of UV band cutoff module encapsulants can effectively mitigate the loss induced by UV irradiation, thereby ensuring the long‐term operation of SHJ solar cells and modules. Herein, a deeper understanding of UV‐induced performance changes in a‐Si:H film and its degradation mechanism for SHJ solar cells are contributed to in this research and also a viable strategy is provided to counter UV‐induced degradation.
Mechanism of Crack Propagation during Hot‐Rolling Process of a Medium‐Carbon 40Cr Alloy Steel
Authors: Wang Fengkang , He Hang , Wang Wanlin , Dou Kun , Zeng Jie , Luo Deng
Published: June 2023

In this work, the mechanism of crack propagation during hot‐rolling process of a typical medium‐carbon 40Cr alloy steel is investigated by cracks characterization, thermodynamic calculation, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). The depth of cracks is about 2.5 mm and its length along with rolling direction can even reach 2000–3000 mm. Thermodynamic calculations show that the oxide phases including MnSiO3 and MnCr2O4 can generate when the oxygen content is 0.3–1.0 wt%, suggesting that low oxygen is beneficial to the selective oxidation of Si, Mn, and Cr elements from the medium‐carbon low alloy. Furthermore, in situ experiment by CLSM indicates that the submicron Cr–Mn–Si–O particles can refine austenite grains. In addition, the contents of chain proeutectoid ferrite in the steel containing Cr–Mn–Si oxides increase by 6.3% and 12.0% at the lower cooling rates of 5 and 10 °C min−1, respectively, comparing with that of no‐oxide particles steel. The submicron Cr–Mn–Si–O particles can refine austenite grains, which induces the precipitation of chain proeutectoid ferrite. Thus, the serious surface cracks propagate along the chain proeutectoid ferrite with the submicron Cr–Mn–Si–O particles during the hot‐rolling process.
Influence of SiO2‐Adding on the Thermophysical Properties and Crystallization Behavior of Ladle Slags
Authors: Yehorov Anton , Wei Xingwen , Bellé Matheus Roberto , Volkova Olena
Published: June 2023

The thermophysical properties (viscosity, density, and surface tension) of the secondary metallurgical slags with various CaO/Al2O3 ratios (0.56–1.99) and SiO2 (1–20 wt%) contents are investigated. The results show that the addition of SiO2 increases the viscosity of the cleanness and desulfurization slags (CaO/Al2O3 ratios ≥1). In slag with a higher Al2O3 content (CaO/Al2O3 < 1) and constant CaO content, the viscosity shows a first decreased and then increased phenomenon with the addition of SiO2. Moreover, the breakpoints of the viscosity are strongly lowered with the addition of SiO2. Both the density and surface tension of slags show a decreasing tendency with the SiO2 addition. Moreover, the single hot thermocouple technique method is applied to investigate the crystallization process of the slags, and the result shows that with high SiO2 contents, glassy layers are formed on the molten slags.
Experimental Investigation of Passive Thermal Error Compensation Approach for Machine Tools
Authors: Voigt Immanuel , Fickert Axel , Wiemer Hajo , Drossel Welf-Guntram
Published: June 2023

Conventional approaches to counteract thermal issues in machine tools often require a significant amount of electrical energy input, such as in active cooling systems. An energy-efficient way for reducing thermal errors is to use passive components that redistribute heat introduced by feed drives and other internal heat sources. On the one hand, latent heat storage units can be integrated into the machine to enhance the thermal stability within the phase transition temperature range of the underlying phase change material. By using latent heat storage units, the impact of highly time-varying heat flows on the thermal displacement of the tool center point can be reduced. On the other hand, passive heat-transfer devices such as heat pipes allow for an increased heat exchange within the machine tool or between the machine tool and the environment. Heat pipes exhibit a very high effective thermal heat conductivity and can be used to transfer heat from machine-internal heat sources to additionally integrated heat sinks. A compensation system is presented combining latent heat storage units and heat pipe systems. To evaluate the effect of the corresponding components on thermally induced displacements, experimental investigations of the system within a machine tool are conducted. By means of temperature and displacement measurements it is demonstrated that the proposed compensation approach allows for partial compensation of the thermal error of the machine tool.
Thermal Compensation of Sudden Working Space Condition Changes in Swiss-Type Lathe Machining
Authors: Kaftan Petr , Mayr Josef , Wegener Konrad
Published: June 2023

The Swiss-type lathe is a specialized turning machine of Swiss-origin with a wide range of applications across the precision machining industry. Its unique features enable it to mass produce parts at high speeds and with high precision. However, the complex non-symmetric structure of the machine tool makes it particularly susceptible to the adverse effects of thermal influences. These internal and external thermal influences cause an offset at the tool center point and degrade the accuracy of the produced part. It is a common practice in Swiss-type lathe machining for an operator to open the machine door during a production run to exchange tools or inspect the produced part. Consequently, thermal boundary conditions change rapidly when cooler ambient air enters the working space of the machine tool and when the air heats up after the machine tool is restarted. The machine tool exhibits short cool-down and warm-up cycles during which the thermal errors change abruptly and can be challenging to compensate, as it is well known in the machine tool industry. This work develops a novel methodology based on artificial intelligence that compensates thermal errors associated with sudden boundary condition changes. The results show that thermal error residual peaks associated with a machine tool door opening are significantly attenuated and the peak-to-peak thermal error of the Swiss-type lathe is reduced.
An Indicative Model Considering Part of the Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour of a Large Grinding Machine
Authors: Mareš Martin , Horejš Otakar , Nykodym Pravoslav
Published: June 2023

Machine tool (MT) thermal errors are an important element in ma-chined workpiece inaccuracies. In the past few decades, thermal errors associated mainly with one particular source (e.g. spindle or environment), have been successfully reduced by SW compensation techniques such as multiple linear re-gression analysis, finite element method, neural network, transfer function (TF) within similar calibration and verification conditions. An approach based on TFs is used for thermal error modelling in this research. This method respects basic heat transfer mechanisms in the MT and requires a minimum of additional gauges. The approach provides insight into the share of each source in the total machine thermal error through a combination of linear parametric models. The aim of this research is to develop an indicative model for a large grinding machine with predictive functionality focused on part of the thermo-mechanical behaviour within different configurations of the headstock, tailstock and workpiece. Unlike a compensation model, an indicative model has no connection to the MT feed drives and can only provide the machine operator with information regarding the actual direction and relative magnitude along with prediction of the time constant and steady state of the non-stationary thermal error. The second aim is to compare the difficulty of measuring at the stator and rotating machine part levels, the thermal behaviour linearity at both levels and the possibility of upgrading the indicative model to a compensation model to extend industrial applicability.
Assessing complementarities between live performances and YouTube video streaming
Authors: Montoro-Pons Juan D. , Caballer-Tarazona María , Cuadrado-García Manuel
Published: June 2023

Digitization and increased accessibility to recorded music have made revenue-generating activities increasingly tied to live performances. In this context, identifying the full impact of concerts (namely capturing the value of activities that emerge as a consequence of them) is of primary interest to assess the sustainability of the different music ecosystems. This paper analyzes spillover effects from playing live to YouTube video streaming. A sample of 190 artists performing in two international music festivals in years 2016 to 2019 has been selected, and the temporal patterns of online video searches for each one have been collected. Using a regression discontinuity design, results show a discrete jump of the YouTube search index for the average performer in the sample after playing live. Furthermore, there is evidence of a gender-specific effect: female performers experience a greater increase in YouTube searches. Though exploratory, this gender bias is consistent with potential theoretical explanations to be explored. Overall, findings provide causal evidence of the effect of live performances on a related but different market (i.e., recorded music), which underlines how technological disruptions may enable alternative revenue sources for musicians.
G × E interactions as a basis for toxicological uncertainty
Authors: Suciu Ilinca , Pamies David , Peruzzo Roberta , Wirtz Petra H. , Smirnova Lena , Pallocca Giorgia , Hauck Christof , Cronin Mark T. D. , Hengstler Jan G. , Brunner Thomas , Hartung Thomas , Amelio Ivano , Leist Marcel
Published: June 2023

To transfer toxicological findings from model systems, e.g. animals, to humans, standardized safety factors are applied to account for intra-species and inter-species variabilities. An alternative approach would be to measure and model the actual compound-specific uncertainties. This biological concept assumes that all observed toxicities depend not only on the exposure situation (environment = E), but also on the genetic (G) background of the model (G × E). As a quantitative discipline, toxicology needs to move beyond merely qualitative G × E concepts. Research programs are required that determine the major biological variabilities affecting toxicity and categorize their relative weights and contributions. In a complementary approach, detailed case studies need to explore the role of genetic backgrounds in the adverse effects of defined chemicals. In addition, current understanding of the selection and propagation of adverse outcome pathways (AOP) in different biological environments is very limited. To improve understanding, a particular focus is required on modulatory and counter-regulatory steps. For quantitative approaches to address uncertainties, the concept of “genetic” influence needs a more precise definition. What is usually meant by this term in the context of G × E are the protein functions encoded by the genes. Besides the gene sequence, the regulation of the gene expression and function should also be accounted for. The widened concept of past and present “gene expression” influences is summarized here as Ge. Also, the concept of “environment” needs some re-consideration in situations where exposure timing (Et) is pivotal: prolonged or repeated exposure to the insult (chemical, physical, life style) affects Ge. This implies that it changes the model system. The interaction of Ge with Et might be denoted as Ge × Et. We provide here general explanations and specific examples for this concept and show how it could be applied in the context of New Approach Methodologies (NAM).
Head-to-head comparison of different classes of FAP radioligands designed to increase tumor residence time: monomer, dimer, albumin binders, and small molecules vs peptides
Authors: Millul Jacopo , Koepke Lennart , Haridas Gaonkar Raghuvir , Sparrer Konstantin M. J. , Mansi Rosalba , Fani Melpomeni
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Fibroblast activation protein-α (FAP)-targeting radioligands have recently demonstrated high diagnostic potential. However, their therapeutic value is impaired by the short tumor residence time. Several strategies have been tested to overcome this limitation, but a head-to-head comparison has never been done. With the aim to identify strengths and limitations of the suggested strategies, we compared the monomer FAPI-46 versus (a) its dimer (FAPI-46-F1D), (b) two albumin binders conjugates (FAPI-46-Ibu (ibuprofen) and FAPI-46-EB (Evans Blue)), and (c) cyclic peptide FAP-2286.

Methods

177Lu-labeled ligands were evaluated in vitro in cell lines with low (HT-1080.hFAP) and high (HEK-293.hFAP) humanFAP expression. SPECT/CT imaging and biodistribution studies were conducted in HT-1080.hFAP and HEK-293.hFAP xenografts. The areas under the curve (AUC) of the tumor uptake and tumor-to-critical-organs ratios and the absorbed doses were estimated.

Results

Radioligands showed IC50 in the picomolar range. Striking differences were observed in vivo regarding tumor uptake, residence, specificity, and total body distribution. All [177Lu]Lu-FAPI-46-based radioligands showed similar uptake between the two tumor models. [177Lu]Lu-FAP-2286 showed higher uptake in HEK-293.hFAP and the least background. The AUC of the tumor uptake and absorbed dose was higher for [177Lu]Lu-FAPI-46-F1D and the two albumin binder conjugates, [177Lu]Lu-FAPI-46-Ibu and [177Lu]Lu-FAPI-46-EB, in HT1080.hFAP xenografts and for [177Lu]Lu-FAPI-46-EB and [177Lu]Lu-FAP-2286 in HEK293.hFAP xenografts. The tumor-to-critical-organs AUC values and the absorbed doses were in favor of [177Lu]Lu-FAP-2286, but tumor-to-kidneys.

Conclusion

The study indicated dimerization and cyclic peptide structures as promising strategies for prolonging tumor residence time, sparing healthy tissues. Albumin binding strategy outcome depended on the albumin binding moiety. The peptide showed advantages in terms of tumor-to-background ratios, besides tumor-to-kidneys, but its tumor uptake was FAP expression–dependent.
The Influence of Ambient Weather Conditions on Stated Preferences for Ecosystem Services Management
Authors: Notaro Sandra , Grilli Gianluca
Published: June 2023

One of the assumptions in stated preference studies is the stability of respondents’ preferences. This assumption might be violated in situations of context dependence, i.e., when the contingent situation influences respondents’ choices. Ambient weather conditions (AWCs) are one element of the context that may influence stated preferences. The literature suggests that AWCs affect people’s emotions, behaviors, and decision-making processes; however, the potential AWCs impact in environmental preference studies has not yet been investigated. This aspect is of high importance because context-dependent choices return biased willingness to pay estimates and affect the subsequent welfare analysis that informs public policy. To shed light on this important aspect of non-market valuation studies, we explore the effect of AWCs on preferences elicited with a Discrete Choice Experiment for ecosystem services management of a Nature Park. Results of a generalized mixed logit model evidenced a significant effect of AWCs on respondents’ choices, with good weather conditions leading to higher preferences and willingness to pay for ecosystem services management. This result, which is consistent with previous psychological studies, raises the issue of sampling design and reveals the importance of a sensitivity analysis of WTP. As this issue is still unexplored in stated preference studies, we also encourage undertaking similar studies to add a priori knowledge for more accurate ex-post calibration of WTP estimates.
Incidence of diverticulitis recurrence after sigmoid colectomy: a retrospective cohort study from a tertiary center and systematic review
Authors: Waser Alexia , Balaphas Alexandre , Uhe Isabelle , Toso Christian , Buchs Nicolas C. , Ris Frédéric , Meyer Jeremy
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Our aim was to determine the incidence of diverticulitis recurrence after sigmoid colectomy for diverticular disease.

Methods

Consecutive patients who benefited from sigmoid colectomy for diverticular disease from January 2007 to June 2021 were identified based on operative codes. Recurrent episodes were identified based on hospitalization codes and reviewed. Survival analysis was performed and was reported using a Kaplan–Meier curve. Follow-up was censored for last hospital visit and diverticulitis recurrence. The systematic review of the literature was performed according to the PRISMA statement. Medline, Embase, CENTRAL, and Web of Science were searched for studies reporting on the incidence of diverticulitis after sigmoid colectomy. The review was registered into PROSPERO (CRD42021237003, 25/06/2021).

Results

One thousand three-hundred and fifty-six patients benefited from sigmoid colectomy. Four hundred and three were excluded, leaving 953 patients for inclusion. The mean age at time of sigmoid colectomy was 64.0 + / − 14.7 years. Four hundred and fifty-eight patients (48.1%) were males. Six hundred and twenty-two sigmoid colectomies (65.3%) were performed in the elective setting and 331 (34.7%) as emergency surgery. The mean duration of follow-up was 4.8 + / − 4.1 years. During this period, 10 patients (1.1%) developed reccurent diverticulitis. Nine of these episodes were classified as Hinchey 1a, and one as Hinchey 1b. The incidence of diverticulitis recurrence (95% CI) was as follows: at 1 year: 0.37% (0.12–1.13%), at 5 years: 1.07% (0.50–2.28%), at 10 years: 2.14% (1.07–4.25%) and at 15 years: 2.14% (1.07–4.25%). Risk factors for recurrence could not be assessed by logistic regression due to the low number of incidental cases. The systematic review of the literature identified 15 observational studies reporting on the incidence of diverticulitis recurrence after sigmoid colectomy, which ranged from 0 to 15% for a follow-up period ranging between 2 months and over 10 years.

Conclusion

The incidence of diverticulitis recurrence after sigmoid colectomy is of 2.14% at 15 years, and is mostly composed of Hinchey 1a episodes. The incidences reported in the literature are heterogeneous.
Increasing SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among UK pediatric patients on dialysis and kidney transplantation between January 2020 and August 2021
Authors: Bamber Holly N. , Kim Jon Jin , Reynolds Ben C. , Afzaal Javairiya , Lunn Andrew J. , Tighe Patrick J. , Irving William L. , Tarr Alexander W.
Published: June 2023

Background

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) was officially declared a pandemic by the World Health Organisation (WHO) on 11 March 2020, as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) spread rapidly across the world. We investigated the seroprevalence of anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in pediatric patients on dialysis or kidney transplantation in the UK.

Methods

Excess sera samples were obtained prospectively during outpatient visits or haemodialysis sessions and analysed using a custom immunoassay calibrated with population age-matched healthy controls. Two large pediatric centres contributed samples.

Results

In total, 520 sera from 145 patients (16 peritoneal dialysis, 16 haemodialysis, 113 transplantation) were analysed cross-sectionally from January 2020 until August 2021. No anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody positive samples were detected in 2020 when lockdown and enhanced social distancing measures were enacted. Thereafter, the proportion of positive samples increased from 5% (January 2021) to 32% (August 2021) following the emergence of the Alpha variant. Taking all patients, 32/145 (22%) were seropositive, including 8/32 (25%) with prior laboratory-confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection and 12/32 (38%) post-vaccination (one of whom was also infected after vaccination). The remaining 13 (41%) seropositive patients had no known stimulus, representing subclinical cases. Antibody binding signals were comparable across patient ages and dialysis versus transplantation and highest against full-length spike protein versus spike subunit-1 and nucleocapsid protein.

Conclusions

Anti-SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence was low in 2020 and increased in early 2021. Serological surveillance complements nucleic acid detection and antigen testing to build a greater picture of the epidemiology of COVID-19 and is therefore important to guide public health responses.

Graphical abstract
A2M-LEUK: attention-augmented algorithm for blood cancer detection in children
Authors: Talaat Fatma M. , Gamel Samah A.
Published: June 2023

Leukemia is a malignancy that affects the blood and bone marrow. Its detection and classification are conventionally done through labor-intensive and specialized methods. The diagnosis of blood cancer in children is a critical task that requires high precision and accuracy. This study proposes a novel approach utilizing attention mechanism-based machine learning in conjunction with image processing techniques for the precise detection and classification of leukemia cells. The proposed attention-augmented algorithm for blood cancer detection in children (A2M-LEUK) is an innovative algorithm that leverages attention mechanisms to improve the detection of blood cancer in children. A2M-LEUK was evaluated on a dataset of blood cell images and achieved remarkable performance metrics: Precision = 99.97%, Recall = 100.00%, F1-score = 99.98%, and Accuracy = 99.98%. These results indicate the high accuracy and sensitivity of the proposed approach in identifying and categorizing leukemia, and its potential to reduce the workload of medical professionals and improve the diagnosis of leukemia. The proposed method provides a promising approach for accurate and efficient detection and classification of leukemia cells, which could potentially improve the diagnosis and treatment of leukemia. Overall, A2M-LEUK improves the diagnosis of leukemia in children and reduces the workload of medical professionals.
Complete genome sequence of a carlavirus identified in grapevine (Vitis sp) in Greece
Authors: Katsarou Konstantina , Andronis Christos , James Anthony , Euthymiou Kostas , Kryovrysanaki Nikoleta , Pappi Polykseni G. , Kalantidis Kriton
Published: June 2023

Using high-throughput sequencing, we identified a novel carlavirus sequence in a 28-year-old ‘Kotsifali’ grapevine sample collected in Heraklion (Crete, Greece). Using RT-PCR and 5'/3' RACE together with Sanger sequencing, the complete genome sequence of 8299 nt was confirmed and found to contain five open reading frames (ORFs) but to lack an ORF6, which is present in some members of the genus Carlavirus. The novel sequence is most similar to those of two carlaviruses infecting caper, and taking into account the ICTV nomenclature, we propose the name "grapevine carlavirus 1" for this new virus.
Comparison of chemiluminiscence versus lateral flow assay for the detection of Helicobacter pylori antigen in human fecal samples
Authors: Rescalvo-Casas Carlos , Hernando-Gozalo Marcos , Pereda Laura Seijas , Bertolín Carlos García , Pérez-García Felipe , Cuadros-González Juan , Pérez-Tanoira Ramón
Published: June 2023

Helicobacter pylori is a Gram-negative bacterium that causes chronic gastric inflammation, which can lead to gastric neoplasia. Therefore, early diagnosis of H. pylori infection is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. The aim of this study was to compare the sensitivity and specificity of the STANDARD™ F H. pylori Ag FIA stool antigen test (SD Biosensor) with the LIAISON® Meridian H. pylori SA for the diagnosis of H. pylori infection. A total of 133 stool samples from patients with suspected H. pylori infection were compared using the STANDARD™ F H. pylori Ag FIA stool antigen test (SD Biosensor), based on lateral flow assay, with the LIAISON® Meridian H. pylori SA. Of the 45 positive samples with LIAISON, 44 were also positive while 1 was negative in the STANDARD™ antigen test. However, this discrepant sample showed a chemiluminescence index of 1.18, very close to the cut-off point of 1. On the other hand, of 88 negative samples obtained with LIAISON, 83 were negative and 5 were positive in the STANDARD™ antigen test. Moreover, STANDARD™ F H. pylori Ag FIA assay has shown a sensitivity of 97.8% (95% CI: 88.2-99.9), a specificity of 94.3% (95% CI: 87.2-98.1), a PPV of 83.9% (95% CI: 68.9-92.4) and a NPV of 99.3% ((95% CI: 95.3-99.9). In conclusion, the STANDARD™ F H. pylori Ag FIA (SD Biosensor) on the STANDARD™ F2400 analyser is a highly sensitive, specific and suitable assay for the detection of H. pylori in stool samples.
From leather wastes to leather: enhancement of low quality leather using collagen recovered from leather tanned wastes
Authors: Gargano Marika , Florio Claudia , Sannia Giovanni , Lettera Vincenzo
Published: June 2023

Leather industry produces huge amounts of solid wastes. In the last decade, several methods for the recovery and valorization of these wastes were developed, mainly focused on the extraction of collagen using chemical methods. The extracted collagen, due to its poor quality, is mostly used in agriculture as a nitrogen source ingredient of fertilizers. This study aims to apply collagen, extracted from leather tanned solid wastes using a recently reported new process based on enzymatic hydrolysis, as filling agent for low quality leather. Thanks to the enzymatic hydrolysis, collagen can be extracted without affecting its integrity and, therefore, its quality. In order to use the extracted collagen as filler for low quality leather, an enzymatic mediated cross-linking reaction between collagen and casein was developed. The enzymatic cross-linking reaction was added as an additional phase of the re-tanning process or as a replacement of one of the re-tanning steps. To evaluate the filling effect, thickness of the treated leather was measured and infrared and microscopy analyses were performed, comparing the new methods to the traditional standard one. The mechanical properties of the filled leather were tested and the sensorial features, such as fullness and touch feelings, were estimated through a panel test. Results suggest the high potential of extracted collagen to be employed back in leather processing both as additive and as substitutive filler.

Graphical abstract
Limits in reaching the anhydrous state of wood and cellulose
Authors: Altgen Michael , Fröba Michael , Gurr Julius , Krause Andreas , Ohlmeyer Martin , Sazama Uta , Willems Wim , Nopens Martin
Published: June 2023

Water-sorption studies and certain organic chemistry reactions require water removal from cellulosic samples. This is hindered by the strong interaction of cellulosic materials with water, and it remains uncertain if a completely anhydrous state can be reached under common drying conditions. Here, different drying conditions were applied to wood and cellulose, and the residual moisture contents were quantified either gravimetrically or by coulometric Karl-Fischer titration. Vacuum-drying at 103 °C and ≤ 1 mbar for at least 360 min decreased the moisture content to ≤ 0.04%. However, in automated sorption balances, drying at atmospheric pressure under dry air or nitrogen flow left some samples with more than 1% moisture content. The residual moisture content obtained under dry gas flow was temperature dependent. Increasing the temperature up to 55 °C decreased the residual moisture content and cooling resulted in a moisture re-uptake, presumably due to small quantities of water vapor in the surrounding atmosphere. These effects must be considered in fundamental studies on water interactions of cellulosic materials.
High phytoremediation and translocation potential of an invasive weed species (Amaranthus retroflexus) in Europe in metal-contaminated areas
Authors: Sipos Bianka , Bibi Dina , Magura Tibor , Tóthmérész Béla , Simon Edina
Published: June 2023

We demonstrated the metal accumulation potential of Amaranthus retorflexus, a European weed species, both in moderately and strongly metal-contaminated sites. Metal accumulation in roots, stems, and leaves were studied. We also calculated the bioaccumulation factor (BAF), and translocation factor (TF) values to quantify the metal accumulation, and translocation between plant organs. Our findings indicated that metal accumulation correlated with metal concentration; that is plant organs accumulated higher concentration of metals in the contaminated area than in the control one. We found that the concentrations of Ba, Mn, Sr and Zn were the highest in leaves, and Al, Cr, Cu, Fe and Pb in roots. High BAF value was found for Sr in all studied areas, indicating this metal’s high accumulation potential of Amaranthus retorflexus. High TF values were found for Al, Ba, Cu, Fe, Mn, Sr and Zn; these metals were successfully transported to aboveground plant organs. We demonstrated that A. retroflexus, a fast-growing, rapidly spreading weed in Europe, was especially useful for heavy metal phytoremediation and phytoextraction.