bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explicable recommendation model based on a time‐assisted knowledge graph and many‐objective optimization algorithm
Authors: Zheng Rui , Wu Linjie , Cai Xingjuan , Xu Yubin
Published: June 2024

Existing research on recommender systems primarily focuses on improving a single objective, such as prediction accuracy, often ignoring other crucial aspects of recommendation performance such as temporal factor, user satisfaction, and acceptance. To solve this problem, we proposed an explicable recommendation model using many‐objective optimization and a time‐assisted knowledge graph, which utilizes user interaction times within the graph to prioritize recommending recently frequently visited items and is further optimized using a many‐objective optimization algorithm. In this model, the temporal weight of user actions at different times is first determined through a time decay function. Additionally, if a user clicks on the same item again, the current action's temporal weight is set to one. This strategy prioritizes recent user actions and frequently visited items, reflecting current interests and preferences better. Next, the created knowledge graph is used to create a list of potential recommendations. Embedding methods obtain the vectors for entities and relations in the path. These vectors, combined with the temporal weight of actions, quantify the explainability of user recommendations. Optimizing the rest of the recommendation performance with many objective algorithms while focusing on the user's recent frequent visits to the item. Finally, the outcomes of the research study indicate that, compared to other explicable recommended methods, our model, considering temporal factor, improved average accuracy by 11%, diversity by 1%, and explainability by 21% in the Useraction1 data set. Results in other data sets also indicate that the proposed model maintains accuracy, diversity, and novelty while enhancing explainability.
5‐Aza‐adenine Derivatives for Crop‐Protection: Multicomponent Synthesis, Experimental and Theoretical Structural Analysis
Authors: Tan Lin Yuing , Lim Felicia Phei Lin , Wong Sheryn , Chuah Lay Hong , Frontera Antonio , Tiekink Edward R. T. , Dolzhenko Anton V.
Published: June 2024

A microwave‐assisted synthesis of 7‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazolo[1,5‐a][1,3,5]triazine‐2‐propanamides was developed using a three‐component, catalyst‐free reaction of cyanamide and trimethyl orthoformate with 3‐(5‐amino‐1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐3‐yl)propanamides (3). The reaction tolerated structurally diverse substrates and proceeded chemo‐ and regio‐selectively, affording the target compounds in high purity in 5–10 minutes. The convenient chromatography‐free isolation and purification of the products add practicality to this method. The structural features of the prepared compounds were investigated using dynamic NMR spectroscopy, X‐ray crystallography and computational chemistry calculations. X‐ray crystallography performed on a representative compound, 3‐(7‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazolo[1,5‐a][1,3,5]triazin‐2‐yl)‐N‐(4‐benzyl)propanamide (4 l), showed the overall molecular conformation to adopt the shape of the letter C. Notable localisation of π‐electron density is found within the 1,2,4‐triazolo[1,5‐a][1,3,5]triazine system; a relatively short C−NH2 bond is consistent with restricted rotation about this bond. This study also presents a detailed analysis of the molecular interactions in 4 l using DFT and QTAIM methods with a focus on the hydrogen‐bonding and π‐stacking interactions that influence the molecular packing of 4 l. The findings reveal the significant roles of N−H⋅O, N−H⋅N and C−H⋅N interactions, along with electrostatically enhanced π⋅π contacts. A broad screening for insecticidal, fungicidal and herbicidal properties identified several compounds with potent herbicidal activity against Matricaria inodora.
Biomass‐Derived, Target Specific, and Ecologically Safer Insecticide Active Ingredients
Authors: Goculdas Tejas , Ramirez Maximus , Crossley Michael , Sadula Sunitha , Vlachos Dionisios G.
Published: June 2024

With the continuous increase in food production to support the growing population, ensuring agricultural sustainability using crop‐protecting agents, such as pesticides, is vital. Conventional pesticides pose significant environmental risks, prompting the need for eco‐friendly alternatives. This study reports the synthesis of new amide‐based insecticidal active ingredients from biomass‐derived monomers, specifically furfural and vanillin. The process involves reductive amination followed by carbonylation. The synthesis of the furfural‐based carbamate yield reaches a cumulative 88 %, with catalysts Rh/Al2O3 and La(OTf)3 being recyclable at each stage. Insecticidal activity assessments reveal that the furfural carbamate exhibits competitive performance, achieving an LC50 of 254.22 μg/cm2, compared to 251.25 μg/cm2 for carbofuran. Ecotoxicity predictions indicate significantly lower toxicity levels toward non‐target aquatic and terrestrial species. The importance of the low octanol‐water partition coefficient of the biobased carbamate, attributed to the oxygen heteroatom and electron density of the furan ring, is discussed in detail. Building on these promising results, the synthesis strategy was extended to six other biobased aldehydes, resulting in a diverse portfolio of biomass‐derived carbamates. A techno‐economic analysis reveals a minimum selling price of 11.1 $/kg, only half that of comparable carbamates, demonstrating the economic viability of these new biobased insecticides.
Neural Sensitivity to Peer Feedback and Depressive Symptoms: Moderation by Executive Function
Authors: Davis Megan M. , Modi Haina H. , Skymba Haley V. , Haigler Katherine , Finnegan Megan K. , Telzer Eva H. , Rudolph Karen D.
Published: June 2024

Theories of adolescent development suggest that elevated neural sensitivity to social evaluation confers tradeoffs for adolescents’ wellbeing, promoting adaptation to changing social contexts but increasing risk for emotional distress and depression. This study investigated whether the association between neural processing of peer feedback and depressive symptoms depends on teacher‐reported executive function (EF) ability in adolescent girls. Girls showed activation to negative and positive peer feedback in regions implicated in social–emotional processing that interacted with EF to predict depressive symptoms. Specifically, activation predicted more depression in youth with poorer EF but less depression in youth with better EF, suggesting that the impact of increased social sensitivity may depend on youths’ ability to regulate this sensitivity in adaptive ways.
Seed dispersal by the cosmopolitan house sparrow widens the spectrum of unexpected endozoochory by granivore birds
Authors: Blanco Guillermo , Chamorro Daniel , Lovas‐Kiss Ádám , Bravo Carolina
Published: June 2024

In the intricate web of plant–animal interactions, granivore birds can play a dual antagonist–mutualist role as seed predators and dispersers. This study delves into the ecological significance of the house sparrow (Passer domesticus) as seed disperser by endozoochory. A sample of individual droppings and faecal pools were collected from a communal roost in central Spain to examine the presence of seeds. Seed viability was determined using the tetrazolium test. Our findings revealed that around 22% of the analysed droppings contained seeds, contradicting the prevalent notion of house sparrow solely as seed predator. Viability tests demonstrated that 53.9% of the defecated seeds were viable, although it varied between plant species, including those from fleshy‐fruited common fig and five species of dry‐fruited herbs. This study challenges the traditional perspectives on the ecological role of the house sparrow, and glimpses on their contribution to seed dispersal. Understanding the nuanced roles of granivore species like the house sparrow is crucial for developing holistic conservation and management strategies in urban and agricultural landscapes. Future studies are encouraged to unravel the actual role of this cosmopolitan species as disperser of a likely broad spectrum of wild, cultivated and exotic plants.
Earthquake economic loss assessment of existing concrete shear wall residential buildings in Eastern Canada
Authors: Montazeri Maryam , Abo El Ezz Ahmad
Published: June 2024

Past major earthquakes have demonstrated that a significant proportion of existing residential buildings are vulnerable to seismic hazards, resulting in economic and social losses. The assessment of earthquake‐induced losses is crucial for devising strategies aimed at enhancing seismic resilience through mitigation plans and emergency response measures. This study intends to provide an analytical methodology for evaluating economic losses for existing residential concrete shear wall buildings in Eastern Canada seismic zones based on Canadian‐compatible seismic capacity parameters. A sampled data set related to residential buildings in Montreal was analyzed and statistical distributions were developed that represent the proportion of buildings in different seismic design code levels and number of stories. Vulnerability analyses were performed, which involved estimating buildings' response under seismic hazard inputs according to the 2020 National Building Code of Canada and conducting loss assessment for structural components, nonstructural displacement‐sensitive components, nonstructural acceleration‐sensitive components, and contents. The results of vulnerability analyses in terms of loss ratio curves showed that the seismic performance varies between mid‐rise and high‐rise concrete shear wall buildings with different seismic design code levels, and nonstructural displacement‐sensitive components exerted the most significant influence on overall economic losses among building components. In addition, a comparison was conducted between Canadian‐compatible economic loss ratio curves and those developed based on the standard seismic capacity parameters in the Hazus technical manual and differences in predicted loss ratios were discussed. The developed loss ratio curves can be integrated into regional scale loss assessment tools for rapid estimation of earthquake‐induced economic losses for concrete shear wall buildings as a function of seismic intensity.
Development of capillary electrophoresis methods for the detection of microbial metabolites on potential future spaceflight missions
Authors: Kurfman Emily A. , Mora Maria F. , Willis Peter A. , Lunte Susan M.
Published: June 2024

The search for chemical indicators of life is a fundamental component of potential future spaceflight missions to ocean worlds. Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a useful separation method for the determination of the small organic molecules, such as amino acids and nucleobases, that could be used to help determine whether or not life is present in a sample collected during such missions. CE is under development for spaceflight applications using multiple detection systems, such as laser induced fluorescence (LIF) and mass spectrometry (MS). Here we report CE‐based methods for separation and detection of major polar metabolites in cells, such as amino acids, nucleobases/sides, and oxidized and reduced glutathione using detectors that are less expensive alternatives to LIF and MS. Direct UV detection, indirect UV detection, and capacitvely coupled contactless conductivity detection (C4D) were tested with CE, and a combination of direct UV and C4D allowed the detection of the widest variety of metabolites. The optimized method was used to profile metabolites found in samples of Escherichia coli and Pseudoalteromonas haloplanktis and showed distinct differences between the species.
Directing the photogenerated charge flow in a photocathodic metal protection system with single‐domain ferroelectric PbTiO3 nanoplates
Authors: Xie Hui , Yu Jianyou , Fang Yuchen , Wang Zhijun , Yang Shihe , Xing Zheng
Published: June 2024

Photocathodic protection (PCP) is arguably an ideal alternative technology to the conventional electrochemical cathodic protection methods for corrosion mitigation of metallic infrastructure due to its eco‐friendliness and low‐energy‐consumption, but the construction of highly‐efficient PCP systems still remains challenging, caused primarily by the lack of driving force to guide the charge flow through the whole PCP photoanodes. Here, we tackle this key issue by equipping the PCP photoanode with ferroelectric single‐domain PbTiO3 nanoplates, which can form a directional “macroscopic electric field” throughout the entire photoanode controllable by external polarization. The properly poled PCP photoanode allows the photogenerated electrons and holes to migrate in opposite directions, that is, electrons to the protected metal and holes to the photoanode/electrolyte interface, leading to largely suppressed charge annihilation and consequently a considerable boost in the overall solar energy conversion efficiency of the PCP system. The as‐fabricated photoanode can not only supply sufficient photocurrent to 304 stainless steel to initiate cathodic protection, but also shift the metal potential to the corrosion‐free range. Our findings provide a viable design strategy for future high‐performance PCP systems based on ferroelectric nanomaterials with enhanced charge flow manipulation.
Dynamic modeling and simulation of advanced nuclear reactor with thermal energy storage
Authors: Dana Seth J. , Meek Aiden S. , Bryan Jacob A. , Basnet Manjur R. , Wang Hailei
Published: June 2024

The increasing installment of solar and wind renewable energy systems create a volatile energy demand to be met by electricity providers. A nuclear hybrid energy system is a nuclear reactor with energy storage that integrates into the grid with renewable energy sources. The Natrium design by TerraPower and GE Hitachi is a sodium fast reactor with molten salt energy storage. The Natrium design operates at steady state of 345 MWe and can boost up to 500 MWe for 5.5 hours. This study uses Dymola and the Modelica language to model the Natrium‐based nuclear‐renewable hybrid energy system. The dynamic system model is tested using hourly historical data from the state of Texas 2021 to show how renewables affect the electricity demand and how energy storage affects the Natrium system response to the demand. According to the results, while the available storage will allow the Natrium design to boost electricity production when the demand and electricity price is high making it more economically viable, the current molten salt storage is slightly undersized for the ERCOT market.
A novel battery management scheme for critical loads
Authors: Bandatmakuru Lakshmi Sravan , Sandepudi Srinivasa Rao
Published: June 2024

This article proposes a novel battery management system (BMS) to ensure uninterruptible power delivery to a 48 V DC bus used for electric vehicle charging stations, data centers, telecommunication systems, and critical care units such as hospitals. The proposed BMS facilitates constant current and constant voltage charging to maintain optimal battery performance during normal operation. This BMS is designed for effective control, monitoring and protection of two lead‐acid battery units to form battery energy storage system (BESS). Furthermore, it is capable of isolating batteries in abnormal conditions and operates them independently to provide reliable supply at output terminals with full capacity. The system utilizes a 30 V DC source derived from AC mains or solar photovoltaic system. This supply is used to charge the BESS and also supply to the load. In the event of failure of 30 V supply, it seamlessly transits to BESS mode to supply power to boost converter to maintain constant 48 V DC output at load terminal. The proposed system architecture not only enhances power reliability but also improves overall system efficiency, making it well‐suited for critical applications require continuous and stable power supply. Simulation studies using Matlab/Simulink and analytical results using TINA (Tool kit for Interactive Network Analysis) are presented to show that 48 V DC supply is maintained at output terminals during failure of input 30 V DC source or failure of one battery unit.
Mussel‐inspired self‐assembly of silver nanoclusters into multifunctional silver aerogels for enhanced catalytic and bactericidal applications
Authors: Gao Yunshan , Xu Jie , Qu Shaohua , Li Yixiao , Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Shang Li
Published: June 2024

Silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) have shown broad application prospects in catalysis, sensing, and biological fields. However, the limited stability of AgNCs has become the main challenge restricting their practical application in complex environments. Herein, a mussel‐inspired, dopamine‐assisted self‐assembly approach is reported to fabricate 3D AgNC aerogels (PDA/AgNCs), which possess significantly enhanced structural stability and synergistic functional properties. The prepared AgNC aerogels display a hierarchical network structure with an ultrafine ligament size of 10.3 ± 1.2 nm and a high specific surface area of 50.7 m2 g−1. The gelation mechanism is elucidated by in‐depth characterization and time‐lapse monitoring of the gelation process vis spectroscopic and microscopic approaches. Owing to the distinct features of aerogels and the synergistic effect of AgNCs and PDA, the fabricated aerogels can not only efficiently decolorize dyes with a faster kinetic than individual AgNCs, but also exhibit remarkable broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity. Consequently, a conceptual water‐treatment device is established by depositing PDA/AgNC aerogels on the cotton substrate, which shows good performance in both catalytic dye degradation and bacterial killing in the flowing system. This mussel‐inspired self‐assembly strategy has great potential in developing robust AgNC‐based functional materials, which also provides a new guideline for designing sophisticated materials with integrated functions and synergistic properties.
Recent advances in packaging materials for food products
Authors: Kumari Sony , Debbarma Rahel , Nasrin Nahid , Khan Tasqeen , Taj Saeed , Bhuyan Tamanna
Published: June 2024

The food industry is adapting to evolving consumer demands for “healthy” and premium quality food by reducing the adverse effects of food packaging through innovative advancements in active and intelligent packaging technologies. These smart innovations offer diverse and creative ways to enhance food product quality and safety while extending shelf life. Emerging techniques are also improving the passive aspects of food packaging systems, such as thermal stability, barrier effectiveness, and mechanical strength. Notably, the use of plants, biodegradable materials, and nanomaterials in sustainable food packaging helps mitigate its negative environmental impact. By integrating intelligent, environmentally friendly, and active packaging technologies, a multipurpose food packaging system can be developed that maintains the integrity of all its components, representing the pinnacle of technological advancement in food packaging. This article reviews the fundamentals of food packaging systems, recent advancements in various packaging techniques, commercialized patents, future research trends, and the challenges that need to be addressed in food packaging.
Methods to Measure the Electrical Resistances of a Gas Diffusion Layer Under Mechanical Compression
Authors: Bouziane Khadidja , Khetabi E. M. , Lachat R. , Candusso D. , Meyer Y.
Published: June 2024

In a proton exchange membrane fuel cell (FC), the gas diffusion layer (GDL) is identified as the component that is most affected by mechanical compression. In this article, a particular focus is provided on the methods to measure the three main electrical parameters—contact resistance, through‐plane resistance, and in‐plane resistance—of the GDL under compression. A nonlinear decrease of these resistances under compression is typically observed. In particular, an important decrease is observed from 0 to 2 MPa, then a lower one above 2 MPa. The smallest contact and in‐plane resistances are measured for the graphitized straight carbon papers analyzing GDL resistances under compression gives a first approach to explaining ohmic losses in FCs as a large part of these losses is related to the GDL. This review would be helpful for researchers in better understanding ohmic losses and establishing a database of main GDL electrical resistances and their variations according to several operating parameters. These data could be used in design models to optimize GDL properties.
Multi‐Array Tubular Microbial Fuel Cell‐Based Biosensor with Membrane Electrode Assembled Air‐Cathodes
Authors: Yeo Ryan Yow Zhong , Ang Wei Lun , Bakar Mimi Hani Abu , Ismail Manal , Salehmin Mohd Nur Ikhmal , Yu Eileen Hao , Lim Swee Su
Published: June 2024

Using microbial fuel cells (MFCs) as biosensors ensures a sustainable method for water quality detection. However, the research on MFC‐based biosensors with a tubular setup is still scarce. In this study, a tubular multi‐array MFC‐based biosensor setup with air‐cathodes was assembled under the membrane electrode assembly configuration. Three different materials, including carbon black (CB), Pt/C (PtC), and polyaniline (PANI), were synthesized and coated on the membrane‐facing side of the air‐cathode to demonstrate the effects of modified air‐cathodes on the overall performance of the MFC‐biosensors. Unmodified carbon cloths were used as anodes. Three days of startup period were required by the biosensors before producing an electrical signal output. The highest current density was obtained by the polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE)/CB/PtC (0.31 A m−2) sample followed by PTFE/CB/PANI (0.09 A m−2), and lastly PTFE/CB (0.05 A m−2). The control (PTFE only) sample did not generate any noticeable electrical signal. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy analysis showed that the incorporation of PtC on the PTFE/CB sample lowered the charge transfer resistance (Rct), whereas the addition of PANI increased the Rct. Despite the differences in Rct values, both PTFE/CB/PtC and PTFE/CB/PANI samples demonstrated a better current density production than the PTFE/CB sample. Thus, modified air‐cathodes further elevated the biosensor's performance.
Cobalt‐Free High‐Entropy Perovskite La0.2Pr0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Sr0.2FeO3–δ Solid Oxide Cell Air Electrode With Enhanced Performance
Authors: Pretschuh Patrick , Egger Andreas , Paulachan Priya , Schöggl Johanna , Brunner Roland , Bucher Edith
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the novel cobalt‐free high‐entropy perovskite, La0.2Pr0.2Nd0.2Sm0.2Sr0.2FeO3–δ (LPNSSF), as an air electrode material for solid oxide cells (SOCs). When testing a button cell with a single‐phase LPNSSF electrode, a current density of 0.55 A cm−2 is obtained at 0.7 V in fuel cell mode at 800°C. In order to mitigate the moderate electronic conductivity of LPNSSF, two approaches are explored. Incorporating a Co‐free highly conductive perovskite, LaNi0.6Fe0.4O3–δ (LNF), either as an LPNSSF–LNF composite electrode or as a current collector layer (CCL), enhances the performance to 0.61 and 0.66 A cm−2, respectively, under the same conditions. Microstructural features are studied by electron microscopy and show a rather dense structure of the CCL. Optimization of the current collector increases the current density further to 0.96 A cm−2 at 0.7 V in a 5 × 5 cm2 anode‐supported cell at 800°C. This cell exhibits good long‐term stability in electrolysis mode in H2‐H2O with 80% humidification. Continuous polarization of −0.69 A cm−2 is sustained for 1000 h, with an average degradation rate of 10 mV kh−1 after an initial run‐in phase. These findings demonstrate the promising performance and durability of LPNSSF as cobalt‐free SOC air electrode.
Neuroinflammatory reactive astrocyte formation correlates with adverse outcomes in perinatal white matter injury
Authors: Renz Patricia , Steinfort Marel , Haesler Valérie , Tscherrig Vera , Huang Eric J. , Chavali Manideep , Liddelow Shane , Rowitch David H. , Surbek Daniel , Schoeberlein Andreina , Brosius Lutz Amanda
Published: June 2024

Perinatal white matter injury (WMI) is the leading cause of long‐term neurological morbidity in infants born preterm. Neuroinflammation during a critical window of early brain development plays a key role in WMI disease pathogenesis. The mechanisms linking inflammation with the long‐term myelination failure that characterizes WMI, however, remain unknown. Here, we investigate the role of astrocyte reactivity in WMI. In an experimental mouse model of WMI, we demonstrate that WMI disease outcomes are improved in mutant mice lacking secretion of inflammatory molecules TNF‐α, IL‐1α, and C1q known, in addition to other roles, to induce the formation of a neuroinflammatory reactive astrocyte substate. We show that astrocytes express molecular signatures of the neuroinflammatory reactive astrocyte substate in both our WMI mouse model and human tissue affected by WMI, and that this gene expression pattern is dampened in injured mutant mice. Our data provide evidence that a neuroinflammatory reactive astrocyte substate correlates with adverse WMI disease outcomes, thus highlighting the need for further investigation of these cells as potential causal players in WMI pathology.
Longitudinal associations of loneliness and social isolation with care dependence among older adults in Latin America and China: A 10/66 dementia research group population‐based cohort study
Authors: Gao Qian , Chua Kia‐Chong , Mayston Rosie , Prina Matthew
Published: June 2024

Objectives

With increasing life expectancy and rapid ageing, there is an expanding number of older people who have functional declines, greater needs for care and support and who are at increased risk of insufficient social interaction. Longitudinal investigations on the interplay between loneliness, social isolation and care dependence remain limited. This study thus aimed to investigate the longitudinal reciprocal association between social isolation/loneliness and care dependence among older adults in Latin America and China.

Methods

We analysed data from the population‐based cohorts from the 10/66 Dementia Research Group (DRG) project (baseline 2003‐07 and follow‐up 2007–2010). The 10/66 DRG study recruited and followed up older adults aged 65 years or above in 11 catchment areas in Latin America and China. A total of 15,027 older adults from Latin America and China (mean age = 73.5, standard deviation = 6.5) were included in our analyses. Cross‐lagged panel models were used to investigate potential reciprocal associations.

Results

Loneliness was positively associated with care dependence at baseline (β = 0.11, p < 0.001 in Latin America; β = 0.16, p < 0.05 in China]. Social isolation consistently had a stronger positive association with care dependence across all study sites in both waves. Longitudinally, care dependence positively predicted loneliness (β = 0.10, p < 0.001) and social isolation (β = 0.05, p < 0.001) in Latin American study sites but not in China. Yet there was no statistical evidence of lagged effects of loneliness and social isolation on care dependence in all study countries.

Conclusions

Older people with care dependence are at risk of developing loneliness and social isolation. It is crucial to develop complex care models using a societal approach to address social and care needs holistically, especially for the older group with declining functional capacity. Future longitudinal research is required to explore the causal mechanisms of relationships and cultural differences, in order to inform the development of culturally appropriate care models.
The functional and biological effects of systemic dexamethasone on mice with facial nerve crushing injury
Authors: Bae Seong Hoon , Park Haeng Ran , Lim Hyunseo , Kim Hyo Yeol , Cheon Taeuk , Jung Jinsei , Hyun Young‐Min
Published: June 2024

Background

Corticosteroid therapy is commonly recommended for acute facial nerve weakness; however, its effectiveness in treating traumatic nerve injuries remains controversial. This study investigated the functional recovery and cellular effects of systemic dexamethasone administration after facial nerve injury.

Methods

C57BL/6 mice were assigned to two groups by intraperitoneal injection: the phosphate‐buffered saline group and the dexamethasone group. Facial nerve crush injury was induced, followed by the functional grading of recovery. Cellular effects were investigated using transmission electron microscopy, flow cytometry, immunofluorescence, and intravital imaging.

Results

Macrophage infiltration into the facial nerves was significantly inhibited by systemic dexamethasone administration. However, dexamethasone group slightly delayed the functional recovery of the facial nerve compared to the PBS group. In addition, the morphological changes in the nerve were not significantly different between the two groups at 14 days post‐injury. Macrophage migration analysis in the intravital imaging also showed no difference between groups.

Conclusions

In summary, systemic dexamethasone successfully inhibited leukocyte infiltration; however, functional recovery was delayed compared to the PBS control group. Clinically, these findings indicate that more evidence and research are required to use steroid pulse therapy for the treatment of traumatic facial nerve injuries.
Real‐world safety and effectiveness of radium‐223 in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer: Interim analyses of the prospective, observational RAPIT study
Authors: Huang Chao‐Yuan , Huang Chi‐Ping , Huang Yu‐Yi , Huang Steven Kuan‐Hua , Lu Kevin , Huang William Ji‐Sien , Meng En , Huang Shu‐Pin , Lee Ming‐Yang , Chen Frank , Pang See‐Tong
Published: June 2024

Several life‐prolonging therapies for metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) are available, including radium‐223 dichloride (223Ra), which was approved based on phase 3 data demonstrating improved overall survival (OS) and a favorable safety profile. To date, real‐world evidence for 223Ra use in Taiwan is from three studies of <50 patients. This observational study (NCT04232761) enrolled male patients with histologically/cytologically confirmed mCRPC with bone metastases from centers across Taiwan. 223Ra was prescribed as part of routine practice by investigators. Patients with prior 223Ra treatment were excluded. The primary objective was to assess 223Ra safety; secondary objectives evaluated efficacy parameters, including OS. Overall, 224 patients were enrolled. Most patients had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0/1 (79.0%) and ≤20 bone metastases (69.2%); no patients had visceral metastases. 223Ra was first‐ or second‐line therapy in 23.2% and 47.7% of patients, respectively. The total proportion of patients who received 5–6 223Ra cycles was 68.8%; this proportion was greater with first‐line use (84.3%) than second‐ (65.7%) or third‐/fourth‐line use (64.1%). More chemotherapy‐naïve patients (61.9%) completed the 6‐cycle 223Ra treatment than chemotherapy‐exposed patients (56.7%). Any‐grade treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) and serious TEAEs occurred in 54.0% and 28.6% of patients, respectively, while 12% experienced 223Ra‐related adverse events. Median OS was 15.7 months (95% confidence interval 12.13–19.51); patients receiving 5–6 223Ra injections and earlier 223Ra use had longer OS than those receiving fewer injections and later 223Ra use. 223Ra provides a well‐tolerated and effective treatment for Taiwanese patients with mCRPC and bone metastases.
CD34+ cell yield among healthy donors: Large‐scale model development and validation
Authors: Alswied Abdullah , Daniel David , Chen Leonard N. , Alqahtani Tariq , West‐Mitchell Kamille Aisha
Published: June 2024

Background

Successful engraftment in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation necessitates the collection of an adequate dose of CD34+ cells. Thus, the precise estimation of CD34+ cells harvested via apheresis is critical. Current CD34+ cell yield prediction models have limited reproducibility. This study aims to develop a more reliable and universally applicable model by utilizing a large dataset, enhancing yield predictions, optimizing the collection process, and improving clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods

A secondary analysis was conducted using the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research database, involving data from over 17 000 healthy donors who underwent filgrastim‐mobilized hematopoietic progenitor cell apheresis. Linear regression, gradient boosting regressor, and logistic regression classification models were employed to predict CD34+ cell yield.

Results

Key predictors identified include pre‐apheresis CD34+ cell count, weight, age, sex, and blood volume processed. The linear regression model achieved a coefficient of determination (R2) value of 0.66 and a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.81. The gradient boosting regressor model demonstrated marginally improved results with an R2 value of 0.67 and an r value of 0.82. The logistic regression classification model achieved a predictive accuracy of 96% at the 200 × 106 CD34+ cell count threshold. At thresholds of 400, 600, 800, and 1000 × 106 CD34+ cell count, the accuracies were 88%, 83%, 83%, and 88%, respectively. The model demonstrated a high area under the receiver operator curve scores ranging from 0.90 to 0.93.

Conclusion

This study introduces advanced predictive models for estimating CD34+ cell yield, with the logistic regression classification model demonstrating remarkable accuracy and practical utility.
Network‐Based Transcriptome Analysis Reveals FAM3C as a Novel Potential Biomarker for Glioblastoma
Authors: Chagas Pablo Shimaoka , Chagas Henrique Izumi Shimaoka , Naeini Sahar Emami , Bhandari Bidhan , Gouron Jules , Malta Tathiane M. , Salles Évila Lopes , Wang Lei P. , Yu Jack C. , Baban Babak
Published: June 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common form of malignant primary brain tumor with a high mortality rate. The aim of the present study was to investigate the clinical significance of Family with Sequence Similarity 3, Member C, FAM3C, in GBM using bioinformatic‐integrated analysis. First, we performed the transcriptomic integration analysis to assess the expression profile of FAM3C in GBM using several data sets (RNA‐sequencing and scRNA‐sequencing), which were obtained from TCGA and GEO databases. By using the STRING platform, we investigated FAM3C‐coregulated genes to construct the protein–protein interaction network. Next, Metascape, Enrichr, and CIBERSORT databases were used. We found FAM3C high expression in GBM with poor survival rates. Further, we observed, via FAM3C coexpression network analysis, that FAM3C plays key roles in several hallmarks of cancer. Surprisingly, we also highlighted five FAM3C‑coregulated genes overexpressed in GBM. Specifically, we demonstrated the association between the high expression of FAM3C and the abundance of the different immune cells, which may markedly worsen GBM prognosis. For the first time, our findings suggest that FAM3C not only can be a new emerging biomarker with promising therapeutic values to GBM patients but also gave a new insight into a potential resource for future GBM studies.
Morphology and composition of calcium oxalate monohydrate phytoliths in the bark of Betula ermanii (stone birch): Case study from Sakhalin Island
Authors: Sokol Ella V. , Deviatiiarova Anna S. , Kopanina Anna V. , Filippova Kseniya A. , Vlasova Inna I.
Published: June 2024

The morphology of calcium oxalate monohydrate precipitates (COM, Ca(C2O4)·H2O, P21/c, whewellite) occurring as crystals or intergrowths, as well as distribution of crystal‐bearing idioblasts, have been studied for the first time in the bark of stone birch Betula ermanii from Sakhalin Island sampled in an area affected by mud volcanism and an unaffected typical forest environment taken for reference. The study addresses several issues (i) number and size of phytoliths and their distribution in different cell types; (ii) density of calcification in specific cells; (iii) habits of single crystals, twins, and complex intergrowths, as well as frequency of different morphologies and their relations. The trends of time‐dependent morphological changes in separately analyzed crystals and intergrowths record the evolution of COM morphology from nuclei to mature grains. Of special interest are the nucleation sites and features of organic and inorganic seeds and nuclei for COM phytoliths. The precipitation process and crystal habits are mainly controlled by supersaturation, and it is thus important to constrain the Ca distribution patterns in different bark tissues. The B. ermanii samples were analyzed by several methods: scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the distribution patterns and micromorphology of COM precipitates and bulk Ca content in bark; electron probe microanalysis (EPMA) for the mineral chemistry of COM precipitates; inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) for trace elements in bulk bark and wood.

Research Highlights

The distribution and morphology of whewellite precipitates in the analyzed B. ermanii bark samples indicate that the aqueous solution was most strongly supersaturated with respect to the Ca(C2O4)·H2O solid phase at the parenchyma‐sclerenchyma boundary, where most of the COM spherulites are localized and often coexist with large single crystals and contact COM twins.
Effect of nitrogen fertilizer on the quality traits of Indica rice with different amylose contents
Authors: Wang Jinhui , Zhang Xiaoqiao , Xiao Yao , Chen Hong , Wang Xuechun , Hu Yungao
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Nitrogen is a key factor affecting the quality of rice. Studying the impact of nitrogen fertilizer on the taste, physicochemical properties, and starch structure of Indica rice with different amylose contents is of great significance for scientifically fertilizing and cultivating high‐quality rice varieties for consumption.

RESULTS

The results indicate that increasing nitrogen fertilizer application reduces the amylose content and increases the protein content, resulting in a decrease in taste quality. Simultaneously, it reduces the intergranular porosity of starch particles, improving the appearance and milling quality of rice. Compared to the N1 treatment (nitrogen fertilizer application rate of 90 kg ha−1), the taste of low‐amylose rice (Yixiangyou 2115) and high‐amylose rice (Byou 268) decreased by 14.24% and 19.79%, respectively, under N4 treatment (nitrogen fertilizer application rate of 270 kg ha−1). The effect of nitrogen fertilizer on low‐amylose rice is mainly reflected in increased rice hardness, enthalpy value, and setback viscosity, resulting in a decline in taste. The effect of nitrogen fertilizer on high‐amylose rice is mainly reflected in a decrease in peak viscosity, an increase in gelatinization temperature, and crystallinity under high nitrogen levels.

CONCLUSION

Increasing nitrogen fertilizer application can improve the appearance and milling quality of rice, but it also leads to an increase in protein content, hardness, gelatinization enthalpy, decrease in breakdown value, and a decline in palatability. In practical production, different production measures should be taken according to different production goals. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Influence of an indigenous yeast, CECA, from the Ningxia wine region of China, on the fungal and bacterial dynamics and function during Cabernet Sauvignon wine fermentation
Authors: Zhang Fang , Zhang Jing , Sun Yue
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Saccharomyces cerevisiae CECA was a potential indigenous Chinese wine yeast that can produce aroma and flavor in Cabernet Sauvignon wines. High‐throughput sequencing combined with metabolite analysis was applied to analyze the effects of CECA inoculation on the native microbial community interaction and metabolism during Cabernet Sauvignon wine fermentation.

RESULTS

Fermentations were performed with three different inoculant strategies: spontaneous fermentation without inoculation, inoculation with CECA after grape must sterilization, and direct inoculation of CECA. Results showed that the diversity of bacteria (P = 0.033) is more sensitive to CECA inoculation than fungi (P = 0.563). In addition, CECA inoculation altered the species composition of core microorganisms (relative abundance >1%) and the keystone species (accounting for the top 1% of the most important interactions), as well as of the biomarkers (linear discriminant analysis > 3.0, P < 0.05). Furthermore, the inoculation could change the cluster of metabolites, and these differential metabolite sets were correlated with four fungal taxa of Issatchenkia, Issatchenkia orientalis, Saccharomycetales, Saccharomycetes and two bacterial taxa of Pantoea, Tatumella ptyseos, were significantly correlated. Inoculated fermentation also altered the correlation between dominant microorganisms and aroma compounds, giving Cabernet Sauvignon wines more herbal, floral, fruity, and cheesy aromas.

CONCLUSION

Saccharomyces cerevisiae CECA and dimethyl dicarbonate (DMDC) inhibition treatments significantly altered the microbial community structure of Cabernet Sauvignon wines, which in turn affected the microbial‐metabolite correlation. These findings will help winemakers to control the microbial dynamics and functions during wine fermentation, and be more widely used in regional typical wine fermentations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Perspective on automated predictive kinetics using estimates derived from large datasets
Authors: Green William H.
Published: June 2024

A longstanding project of the chemical kinetics community is to predict reaction rates and the behavior of reacting systems, even for systems where there are no experimental data. Many important reacting systems (atmosphere, combustion, pyrolysis, partial oxidations) involve a large number of reactions occurring simultaneously, and reaction intermediates that have never been observed, making this goal even more challenging. Improvements in our ability to compute rate coefficients and other important parameters accurately from first principles, and improvements in automated kinetic modeling software, have partially overcome many challenges. Indeed, in some cases quite complicated kinetic models have been constructed which accurately predicted the results of independent experiments. However, the process of constructing the models, and deciding which reactions to measure or compute ab initio, relies on accurate estimates (and indeed most of the numerical rate parameters in most large kinetic models are estimates.) Machine‐learned models trained on large datasets can improve the accuracy of these estimates, and allow a better integration of quantum chemistry and experimental data. The need for continued development of shared (perhaps open‐source) software and databases, and some directions for improvement, are highlighted. As we model more complicated systems, many of the weaknesses of the traditional ways of doing chemical kinetic modeling, and of testing kinetic models, have been exposed, identifying several challenges for future research by the community.
Simple Characterization of Cylindrical Diffuser Fibers With a Fluorescent Layer
Authors: Stepp Herbert , Sroka Ronald
Published: June 2024

Objectives

A fast, simple, versatile, and reliable method to record light emission intensity profiles of cylindrical light diffusers (CDFs) in air and transparent liquids has been developed.

Methods

A fluorescent color glass filter (RG695) converts red light emitted by a cylindrical diffuser fiber into near‐infrared light in an emission angle‐independent manner. The red light was provided from a diode laser system at 635 nm. Near‐infrared fluorescence from the RG695 was imaged with a camera. Images from this camera were processed to obtain emission intensity profiles. Cylindrical diffuser fiber profiles of four different manufacturers were compared.

Results

The proposed method provides angle‐independent intensity profiles of cylindrical diffuser fibers with a single camera shot. It could be demonstrated that dependent on the underlying principle of how the diffuser fiber tips emit light, the emission profile can change significantly in media with different refractive indices.

Conclusions

By converting the light emitted by a diffuser fiber tip into fluorescence light one can eliminate the dependence of the recorded profile on the emission angle from the diffusor. This approach allows for easily taking into account refraction‐index (mis)matching by placing the equipment into a suitable liquid. The proposed measurement principle bears potential for quality assurance measurements of CDFs used for interstitial laser thermotherapy or photodynamic therapy.
Copper‐Free Synthesis of Cationic Glycidyl Triazolyl Polymers
Authors: Ikeda Taichi
Published: June 2024

Copper‐free synthesis of cationic glycidyl triazolyl polymers (GTPs) is achieved through a thermal azide‐alkyne cycloaddition reaction between glycidyl azide polymer and propiolic acid, followed by decarboxylation and quaternization of the triazole unit. For synthesizing nonfunctionalized GTP (GTP‐H), a microwave‐assisted method enhances the decarboxylation reaction of carboxy‐functionalized GTP (GTP‐COOH). Three variants of cationic GTPs with different N‐substituents [N‐ethyl, N‐butyl, and N‐tri(ethylene glycol) monomethyl ether (EG3)] are synthesized. The molecular weight of GTP‐H is determined via size exclusion chromatography. Thermal properties of all GTPs are characterized using differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric analysis. The ionic conductivities of these cationic GTPs are assessed by impedance measurements. The conducting ion concentration and mobility are calculated based on the electrode polarization model. Among three cationic GTPs, the GTP with the N‐EG3 substituent exhibits the highest ionic conductivity, reaching 6.8 × 10−6 S cm−1 at 25 °C under dry conditions. When compared to previously reported reference polymers, the reduction of steric crowding around the triazolium unit is considered to be a key factor in enhancing ionic conductivity.
Nanoliposomes as nonviral vectors in cancer gene therapy
Authors: Yildiz Safiye Nur , Entezari Maliheh , Paskeh Mahshid Deldar Abad , Mirzaei Sepideh , Kalbasi Alireza , Zabolian Amirhossein , Hashemi Farid , Hushmandi Kiavash , Hashemi Mehrdad , Raei Mehdi , Goharrizi Mohammad Ali Sheikh Beig , Aref Amir Reza , Zarrabi Ali , Ren Jun , Orive Gorka , Rabiee Navid , Ertas Yavuz Nuri
Published: June 2024

Nonviral vectors, such as liposomes, offer potential for targeted gene delivery in cancer therapy. Liposomes, composed of phospholipid vesicles, have demonstrated efficacy as nanocarriers for genetic tools, addressing the limitations of off‐targeting and degradation commonly associated with traditional gene therapy approaches. Due to their biocompatibility, stability, and tunable physicochemical properties, they offer potential in overcoming the challenges associated with gene therapy, such as low transfection efficiency and poor stability in biological fluids. Despite these advancements, there remains a gap in understanding the optimal utilization of nanoliposomes for enhanced gene delivery in cancer treatment. This review delves into the present state of nanoliposomes as carriers for genetic tools in cancer therapy, sheds light on their potential to safeguard genetic payloads and facilitate cell internalization alongside the evolution of smart nanocarriers for targeted delivery. The challenges linked to their biocompatibility and the factors that restrict their effectiveness in gene delivery are also discussed along with exploring the potential of nanoliposomes in cancer gene therapy strategies by analyzing recent advancements and offering future directions.