bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Humanitarian crisis amid the military coup in Niger republic; what went wrong?
Authors: Oduoye Malik Olatunde , Ubechu Samuel Chinonso , Zafar Habiba , Noor Zainab , Oyeleke Usman Abolaji , Agbeyewo Ganiyat Temitope
Published: June 2024

Introduction

A humanitarian crisis means any event or series of events that are harmful to the health or security of the general population. The Niger Republic is currently facing a serious crisis amid the military coup of July 26, 2023. We fear that if nothing is done about it quickly, there could be a civil war in Niger and other neighboring countries.

Aim

This present article aims to provide comprehensive knowledge about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Niger, highlighting the factors that caused it and providing possible solutions for them.

Methodology

A literature search was conducted on the recent humanitarian crisis caused by the military coup in Niger Republic using databases such as PubMed, ResearchGate, Google Scholar, World Health Organization, United Nations, online newspapers, and reports from 2013 to 2023.

Result

We found that the humanitarian crisis amid the military coup in Niger Republic has further amplified the vulnerability of millions of Nigeriens to more problems in the Niger Republic. The number of Nigeriens in need of humanitarian assistance has reportedly increased by 65%, from 2.3 million in 2019 to 3.8 million in 2021. More than two million children in Niger have been impacted by the crisis in the country and need humanitarian assistance. Furthermore, other causes of the humanitarian crisis in the Niger Republic include sociodemographic factors, climate change, and other natural disasters.

Conclusion

The humanitarian crisis in Niger, caused by different factors such as socioeconomic stagnation, environmental causes, food insecurity, terrorist activities, and internal displacement, is an alarming situation that requires an urgent solution and a response from the international community. There is a need to analyze all the underlying causes of humanitarian crises and find long‐lasting solutions for them.
Effect of Nb‐doping on the MnFeOx catalyst for NH3‐SCR reaction at low‐temperature
Authors: Pei Zhenzhao , Zhao Haiyang , Wang Haipeng , Fu Zhuyue , Yang Kanghua , Mao Kang , Liu Yan
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Manganese‐based catalysts were considered the most promising catalysts for low‐temperature selective catalytic reduction (NH3‐SCR) reactions. In this work, a series of Mn3Fe2NbyOx catalysts were synthesized by co‐precipitation method for low‐temperature NH3‐SCR and SO2 tolerance tests.

RESULTS

The catalysts were characterized by BET, SEM, XRD, XPS, H2‐TPR, and NH3‐TPD. Mn3Fe2Nb0.01Ox exhibited exceptionally high activity with a conversion of almost 100% from 80°C to 240°C, and a NO conversion of more than 75% at 40°C, while the NO conversion at 140°C in the presence of 100 ppm SO2 remained above 90% for 4 h.

CONCLUSION

According to the characterization results, Nb modification can expand the specific surface area of the catalyst, improve the structure of the catalyst, and make the active components on the catalyst surface more dispersed. Moreover, the Nb‐modified catalyst reduced the content of Mn2+ on the catalyst surface and strengthened the electronic interactions between elements. The synergistic effects among Mn, Fe, and Nb facilitate the formation of more chemically adsorbed oxygen, which enhances the reduction capacity of the catalyst. This facilitates the adsorption of NH3 by the catalyst at low temperatures and promotes the process of low‐temperature NH3‐SCR reaction. More importantly, the Nb‐modified catalyst possessed more weak acid sites, and the higher surface acidity was conducive to the inhibition of SO3 generation, which enhanced the sulfur poisoning resistance of the catalyst. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Serotype and genomic diversity of dengue virus during the 2023 outbreak in Pakistan reveals the circulation of genotype III of DENV‐1 and cosmopolitan genotype of DENV‐2
Authors: Jamal Zunera , Haider Syed Adnan , Hakim Rabia , Humayun Fahad , Farooq Muhammad Umar , Ammar Muhammad , Afrough Babak , Inamdar Leena , Salman Muhammad , Umair Massab
Published: June 2024

Dengue, a mosquito‐borne viral disease, poses a significant public health challenge in Pakistan, with a significant outbreak in 2023, prompting our investigation into the serotype and genomic diversity of the dengue virus (DENV). NS‐1 positive blood samples from 153 patients were referred to the National Institute of Health, Pakistan, between July and October 2023. Among these, 98 (64.1%) tested positive using multiplex real‐time PCR, with higher prevalence among males (65.8%) and individuals aged 31‐40. Serotyping revealed DENV‐1 as the predominant serotype (84.7%), followed by DENV‐2 (15.3%). Whole‐genome sequencing of 18 samples (DENV‐1 = 17, DENV‐2 = 01) showed that DENV‐1 (genotype III) samples were closely related (>99%) to Pakistan outbreak samples (2022), and approx. > 98% with USA (2022), Singapore and China (2016), Bangladesh (2017), and Pakistan (2019). The DENV‐2 sequence (cosmopolitan genotype; clade IVA) shared genetic similarity with Pakistan outbreak sequences (2022), approx. > 99% with China and Singapore (2018−2019) and showed divergence from Pakistan sequences (2008−2013). No coinfection with dengue serotypes or other viruses were observed. Comparisons with previous DENV‐1 sequences highlighted genetic variations affecting viral replication efficiency (NS2B:K55R) and infectivity (E:M272T). These findings contribute to dengue epidemiology understanding and underscore the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance for future outbreak responses in Pakistan.
Proof of infectivity of hepatitis E virus particles from the ejaculate of chronically infected patients
Authors: Schemmerer Mathias , Bock Hans H. , Schattenberg Jörn M. , Huber Samuel , Polywka Susanne , Mader Maria , Lohse Ansgar W. , Todt Daniel , Steinmann Eike , Wenzel Jürgen J. , Horvatits Thomas , Pischke Sven
Published: June 2024

Recently, hepatitis E virus (HEV, Paslahepevirus balayani) particles were detected for the first time in the ejaculate of two chronically infected patients. Since then, we have been able to detect HEV in ejaculate in five further patients, and thus in a total of seven out of nine (78%) chronically infected men (age 36–67 years, median 56 years). In five patients, the HEV RNA concentration was more than 100‐fold higher compared to the serum, while in two patients, the viral load was more than 10‐fold lower. However, it has remained unclear whether viral particles shed in the ejaculate were infectious, as a previous cell culture model had failed to demonstrate the infectivity. In the current study, we employed an optimized HEV cell culture system based on overconfluent PLC/PRF/5 cells to investigate the infectivity of HEV particles from ejaculate and other body fluids. With this approach, we were able to show for the first time that HEV particles in the ejaculate from several patients were infectious. HEV replicated to high viral loads of 1e9 HEV RNA copies per ml. This indicates that HEV‐positive ejaculate could bear a risk of infection for sexual partners.
Submerged imprint of glacier dynamics in the NW sector of Lago Viedma (southern Patagonia, Argentina)
Authors: Restelli F. B. , Lozano J. G. , Bran D. M. , Bunicontro S. , Lodolo E. , Tassone A. A. , Vilas J. F.
Published: June 2024

Lago Viedma is a proglacial lake into which the Viedma Glacier flows from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. This glacier has rapidly lost mass in recent times, and its deglacial history is reflected in the lake's subsurface. New high‐resolution multi‐channel seismic profiles acquired in the northwestern sector of the lake have allowed us to reconstruct the bathymetry of the area and identify several small sub‐basins, which have a maximum depth of 240 m in this sector. Four seismic facies have been recognized, separated by erosional unconformities, reflecting the depositional conditions in this sector of the basin during different Quaternary sedimentation phases. There is a transitional phase from ice‐contacted deposits to subglacial deposits, probably associated with a subglacial fan, and finally a phase of lacustrine sedimentation. In addition, three depositional stages were identified within the lacustrine deposits, indicating a different sedimentary input, and the morphologies observed at the lake bottom suggest the existence of at least ten stagnations of the glacial margin. This study helps to improve the history of the retreat of the Viedma Glacier in this area during the Pleistocene/Holocene and provides a basis for further geophysical measurements aimed at mapping this remote lacustrine environment.
Determination of the binding constants and ionic mobilities of diquat complexes with randomly sulfated cyclodextrins by affinity capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Bílek Jan , Koval Dušan , Šolínová Veronika , Talele Harish R. , Severa Lukáš , Gutiérrez Paul E. Reyes , Teplý Filip , Kašička Václav
Published: June 2024

The enantiomers of diquats (DQs), a new class of functional organic molecules, were recently separated by capillary electrophoresis (CE) with high resolution up to 11.4 within 5–7 min using randomly sulfated α‐, β‐, and γ‐cyclodextrins (CDs) as chiral selectors. These results indicated strong interactions between dicationic diquats and multiply negatively charged sulfated CDs (S‐CDs). However, the binding strength of these interactions was not quantified. For that reason, in this study, affinity CE was applied for the determination of the binding constants and ionic mobilities of the complexes of DQ P‐ and M‐enantiomers with CD chiral selectors in an aqueous medium. The non‐covalent interactions of 10 pairs of DQ enantiomers with the above CDs were investigated in a background electrolyte (BGE) composed of 22 mM NaOH, 35 mM H3PO4, pH 2.5, and 0.0–1.0 mM concentrations of CDs. The average apparent binding constant and the average actual ionic mobility of the DQ‐CD complexes were determined by nonlinear regression analysis of the dependence of the effective mobility of DQ enantiomers on the concentration of CDs in the BGE. The complexes were found to be relatively strong with the averaged apparent binding constants in the range 13 600–547 400 L/mol.
Effects of popliteal nerve blocks on postoperative pain management in fibula‐free flap patients for head and neck cancer reconstruction
Authors: Gemmiti Amanda , Audlin Jason , Debick Nadia , Proper Heidi , Yeturu Prabhat , Walsh Ronald , Ryan Jesse , Samudre Susan
Published: June 2024

Objective

To determine if performing popliteal nerve blocks preoperatively in patients undergoing fibula‐free flap surgery for head and neck cancer reconstruction decreases subjective pain scores decreases narcotic usage, and improves mobility in the acute postoperative time period when compared to alternative pain control regimens.

Methods

A retrospective review of the medical records of patients who underwent fibula‐free flap reconstruction for head and neck malignancy at SUNY Upstate Medical University during the time period from 2015 to 2022 was performed. Collected data consisted of patient demographics and clinical characteristics, postoperative pain management modalities, reported pain scores, postoperative narcotic usage, length of hospital stay, and days until out of bed without personal assistance.

Results

A total of 40 patients were included in the study. The average reported pain score was reduced in the nerve block group compared to the control group (1.7 vs. 4.0, p‐value = .003). Similarly, the average maximum reported pain score was also lower in patients who received a nerve block (3.4 vs. 6.9, p‐value = .002). None of the patients who received popliteal nerve blocks required pain control with parenteral narcotics postoperatively, whereas 82.9% of patients without a nerve block did. Patients who received a popliteal nerve block consumed an average of 103.5 MME, whereas those who did not receive a block consumed an average of 523.0 MME. No statistically significant difference was found between the groups regarding time from surgery until transfer without personal assistance or length of hospital stay.

Conclusion

Popliteal nerve blocks can reduce postoperative pain in patients undergoing fibula‐free flap reconstruction for head and neck cancer.
Impact of human papillomavirus status on survival in patients with oral cancer
Authors: Tangthongkum Manupol , Phisalmongkhon Suwapat , Leelasawatsuk Peesit , Supanimitjaroenporn Pasawat , Kirtsreesakul Virat , Tantipisit Jarukit
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To examine the association between the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and overall survival rate in patients with oral cancer.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study examined HPV status in 454 patients who were diagnosed with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) using the records of patients who underwent an initial treatment for OSCC between 2012 and 2021 at our institution as retrieved from the Cancer Registry database. The survival rates of the HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative groups were assessed and compared, and independent factors associated with survival were analyzed using multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

Of the 454 patients with OSCC included in this study, 73 were excluded for invalid HPV tests. Of the remaining patients, 39 and 342 patients were categorized into HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative groups, respectively. The prevalence of HPV‐positive in the patients with OSCC was 10.2% (95% confidence interval 7.2%–13.2%). The 3‐year overall survival rates were 56.2% and 53.9% in the HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative groups, respectively. The 3‐year disease‐specific survival rates in the HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative groups were 60.2% and 56.9%, respectively. The survival differences were not statistically significant. HPV‐positive status was not a significant predictor of overall survival in the multivariable Cox regression analyses (p = 0.728).

Conclusion

The prevalence of HPV‐positivity among patients with OSCC in the study was 10.2%. No association was found between HPV‐positive status and 3‐year overall survival in patients with oral cancer.

Level of evidence

Level 3.
Co‐creative gift systems within digital platforms
Authors: Ciampa Isabella , de Valck Kristine
Published: June 2024

This study explores co‐creative gift systems within digital platforms. We define co‐creative gift systems as systems where consumers actively engage in content creation and co‐creation, disseminating original artistic digital gifts (i.e., content such as novels, videos, music) on digital platforms and engaging in collaborative exchanges that shape the work in progress. Using a qualitative methodology, including netnography and guided introspections, we analyze 3 years of netnographic data on Wattpad, a platform for developing and publishing written fiction. Our findings reveal the building of varying relational ties within the gift system, from casual interactions to deep connections that foster communities of practice and fandoms, and fluid role transitions between givers and recipients. These interactions and transitions impact the development of the digital gift through editorial support, narrative co‐creation, and independent reviews. This study contributes to the literature on gift giving by emphasizing the role of co‐creative gift systems in enhancing digital community interactions and content co‐creation. Future research directions are suggested to further explore co‐creative gift systems across various digital platforms and their implications for consumer research and digital content production.
Feeling younger and acting greener: The impact of subjective age on sustainable consumption
Authors: Lee Daniel Chaein , Kim Jungkeun
Published: June 2024

It is widely believed that younger generations are at the forefront of sustainability efforts. Given the significance of fostering greater consumer participation in sustainable consumption, this perception prompts an intriguing question: If consumers associate sustainability with younger individuals, can simply instilling a sense of youthfulness increase their engagement in sustainable consumption, regardless of their actual age? Building upon previous research on subjective age—that is, how old one feels—and consumer identity, we propose that consumers will gravitate towards sustainable products when they feel younger than older. This is because such products align well with their perceived age identity, creating a perception of fit. The findings across three studies provide converging evidence that simply making consumers feel younger can result in an increased preference for sustainable products. Study 1 demonstrated that feeling younger increased the selection of more sustainable products over less sustainable ones. Study 2 showed that this effect is mediated by the perceived fit. Study 3 further supported the underlying mechanism by revealing that the focal effect was mitigated when the association between sustainability and younger age was weakened. Study 4 replicated the focal effect in a consequential choice setting. Finally, Study 5 confirmed the proposed effect by using trait subjective age as a predictor.
Hyperexpression of tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 inhibits differentiation of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells by instigating apolarity during ageing
Authors: Wang Ming , Han Yijie , Yao Xiaohan , Duan Xixi , Wan Jiajia , Lou Xiaohan , Yan Yan , Zheng Peiguo , Wang Fazhan , Zhu Linyu , Ni Chen , Pan Zhenzhen , Wang Zihao , Chen Lin , Wang Zhaoqing , Qin Zhihai
Published: June 2024

During the ageing process, TNF‐α can promote the expansion of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs). However, it remains unclear which receptor(s) of TNF‐α are involved in and how they modulate this process. Here, we report that TNFR2 hyperexpression induced by either TNF‐α or IL‐6, two proinflammatory factors of senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), causes cellular apolarity and differentiation inhibition in aged MDSCs. Ex vivo overexpression of TNFR2 in young MDSCs inhibited their polarity and differentiation, whereas in vivo depletion of Tnfr2 in aged MDSCs promotes their differentiation. Consequently, the age‐dependent increase of TNFR2 versus unaltered TNFR1 expression in aged MDSCs significantly shifts the balance of TNF‐α signaling toward the TNFR2–JNK axis, which accounts for JNK‐induced impairment of cell polarity and differentiation failure of aged MDSCs. Consistently, inhibiting JNK attenuates apolarity and partially restores the differentiation capacity of aged MDSCs, suggesting that upregulated TNFR2/JNK signaling is a key factor limiting MDSC differentiation during organismal ageing. Therefore, abnormal hyperexpression of TNFR2 represents a general mechanism by which extrinsic SASP signals disrupt intrinsic cell polarity behavior, thereby arresting mature differentiation of MDSCs with ageing, suggesting that TNFR2 could be a potential therapeutic target for intervention of ageing through rejuvenation of aged MDSCs.
A novel missense variant located within the zinc finger domain of the GLI3 gene was identified in a Vietnamese pedigree with index finger polydactyly
Authors: Nguyen Thy Ngoc , Tran Giang Son , Hoang Hai Duc , Nguyen Long Giang
Published: June 2024

Background

Polydactyly, particularly of the index finger, remains an intriguing anomaly for which no specific gene or locus has been definitively linked to this phenotype. In this study, we conducted an investigation of a three‐generation family displaying index finger polydactyly.

Methods

Exome sequencing was conducted on the patient, with a filtration to identify potential causal variation. Validation of the obtained variant was conducted by Sanger sequencing, encompassing all family members.

Results

Exome analysis uncovered a novel heterozygous missense variant (c.1482A>T; p.Gln494His) at the zinc finger DNA‐binding domain of the GLI3 protein within the proband and all affected family members. Remarkably, the variant was absent in unaffected individuals within the pedigree, underscoring its association with the polydactyly phenotype. Computational analyses revealed that GLI3 p.Gln494His impacts a residue that is highly conserved across species.

Conclusion

The GLI3 zinc finger DNA‐binding region is an essential part of the Sonic hedgehog signaling pathway, orchestrating crucial aspects of embryonic development through the regulation of target gene expression. This novel finding not only contributes valuable insights into the molecular pathways governing polydactyly during embryonic development but also has the potential to enhance diagnostic and screening capabilities for this condition in clinical settings.
Transformation of hexagonal boron nitride nanocomposite underfill in microelectronics packaging
Authors: Razgaleh S. A. , Aravamudhan Shyam
Published: June 2024

In recent years, hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) has gained attention for its potential applications in thermal management and high‐temperature uses. To evaluate the environmental impact of employing h‐BN nanocomposites in microelectronics packaging for thermal management, a comprehensive assessment was conducted. This assessment is particularly significant due to the nature of nanoparticles and the importance of mitigating potential environmental toxicity. Electronic waste incineration, compared to e‐waste recycling, carries a higher environmental burden. Building on previous research, this project explores the feasibility of h‐BN nanocomposites in microelectronic packaging for thermal management. The study focuses on the physiochemical transformations of h‐BN nanocomposite underfills during incineration, considering the influence of particle size and concentration on these transformations. Various analytical techniques, including SEM, XRD, FTIR spectroscopy, and TEM, were employed to identify and characterize the particles throughout their life cycle. By delving into physiochemical transformations and investigating the effects of particle size and concentration, this research enhances our understanding of h‐BN nanocomposites, aiding informed decision‐making for environmentally sustainable use in microelectronics packaging.

Highlights

h‐BN nanoparticles remained inert throughout their life cycle.

Underfill characterization showed minimal physiochemical changes in h‐BN.

h‐BN is a promising thermal transfer candidate in microelectronics.
Study on the expansion of nitrile rubber in high‐pressure hydrogen gas atmospheres: Calculations and experiments
Authors: Lei Xiaozhen , Zheng Bin , Xue Dongxu
Published: June 2024

Hydrogen with small molecule size under high pressure can permeate most materials, being a challenge for rubber sealing materials used in hydrogen storage. The volume expansion of rubber materials due to high‐pressure hydrogen is an important indicator of their degradation and failure. Here, both microscopic calculations and experimental investigations of the nitrile rubber were conducted to evaluate the relation between the structure features and the expansion performance. Three factors, the acrylonitrile amount, the chain length, and the crosslinking degree, were considered to impact on the expansion of the nitrile rubber. Current study indicates that the increasing of acrylonitrile amount can result in the reduction of the volume expansion, owing to the preferential interactions between hydrogen and the butadiene group of nitrile rubber. Both of the chain length and the crosslinking degree are positively proportional to the chain elongation and then the volume of the nitrile rubber. Especially, the amount of acrylonitrile was found to be a key factor for evaluating the expansion of nitrile rubber under high‐pressure hydrogen. This study performs microscopic calculations and macroscopic experiments to investigate the expansion of nitrile rubber, which is expected to be used in designing the sealing rubber material for high‐pressure hydrogen storage applications.

Highlights

Acrylonitrile determines the expansion performance of NBR within high‐pressure hydrogen.

Short chain and low crosslinking density suppressed the expansion of NBR.

Evaluating the expansion of nitrile rubber exposed to high‐pressure hydrogen.
Colloidal and thermal properties of poly(hydroxyethyl caprolactone acrylate‐co‐methyl methacrylate)‐g‐pullulan latex obtained by seeded semi‐batch emulsion polymerization
Authors: Santos Samuel A. , Romão Eduardo G. M. , Nahra Lara R. , Guerrini Lila M. , Oliveira Maurício P.
Published: June 2024

In this study, the influence that the monomer composition of hydroxyethyl caprolactone acrylate/methyl methacrylate (HECLA/MMA) has on the properties of the latex films, including contact angle, thermogravimetric analysis, and mechanical properties was evaluated. The polymerization process to obtain small particle sizes, good colloidal stability, and polymer films was optimized through the use of pullulan (Pull) and different ratios of HECLA and MMA. The results revealed a substantial impact of the monomer composition and polymerization processes on the particle size and latex film properties. The use of seed latex obtained in situ reduces particle size and particle size distribution. Additionally, it was observed that the contact angle of the polymer films increased as the concentration of HECLA increased. Furthermore, the water absorption of the polymer films exhibited a decreasing trend after reaching an 80/20 monomer composition of HECLA/MMA. An increase in HECLA contents in the recipe showed a reduction in tensile strength, elastic modulus, hardness, and elongation at break. Conversely, higher HECLA contents contributed to improving the thermal properties of the polymer films. Finally, the optimal ratio of HECLA/MMA to improve the thermal degradation and tensile mechanical properties of the polymer film was 50/50 wt%. The results found in this work allow additional data for producing poly(HECLA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐Pull latexes by manipulating the ratios of HECLA and MMA, which can create new potential applications in various industrial settings for a wide range of polysaccharides.

Highlights

Poly(HECLA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐Pull with different ratios of HECLA/MMA were successfully obtained.

The use of Pull after molar mass reduction had a significant effect on colloidal stability.

A reduction in tensile strength and elongation at break was obtained by increasing the amount of HECLA.

Thermal stability of the latex films showed a direct relationship with the content of HECLA.

Poly(HECLA‐co‐MMA)‐g‐Pull latexes can be used in agricultural applications.
Telemedicine impact on patient disparities and physician practice patterns in cancer rehabilitation: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Leong David , Ng Amy , Chang Philip , Zheng Jasmine , Wilson Richard , Chen Matthew Edwin , Vargo Mary
Published: June 2024

Objective

To examine the impact of telemedicine on demographic and practice patterns between outpatients receiving virtual versus in‐person cancer rehabilitation physiatry care.

Design

Multicenter retrospective study.

Setting

Outpatient cancer rehabilitation physiatry clinics at four academic medical centers in the United States.

Patients

Patients with cancer diagnoses or history of cancer diagnosis.

Interventions

Cancer rehabilitation physiatry encounters.

Main Outcome Measures

Visit mode (in‐person, telemedicine); disparities variables (age, race, and gender) by visit mode, and practice interventions (imaging, medications, procedures, other orders, and orders of any type) by visit mode.

Results

Among a total of 7004 encounters, 2687 unique patients were found. In‐person participants were significantly older than the average telemedicine participant (mean 62.9 vs. 60.7 years; p < .001). A race effect was seen (p = .037) with individuals reporting as Asian or other being more likely to have telemedicine encounters. No gender disparities were seen. Using a random visit analysis model to compare populations receiving in‐person versus telemedicine care, a slight majority (53%) of follow‐up visits were via telemedicine, versus 40% of new patient visits (p < .001). No significant differences were seen in medication prescribing frequency (38.9% telemedicine vs. 36.7% in‐person, adjusted relative risk [RR]: 0.988, confidence interval [CI]: 0.73–1.34; p = .988) or imaging frequency (2.4% telemedicine vs. 7.6%; adjusted RR: 0.784, CI: 0.44–1.39; p = .408) between telemedicine versus in‐person visit types. Other orders were significantly less likely to be placed during telemedicine than in‐person visits (19.9% telemedicine vs. 28.6% in‐person; adjusted RR: 0.623, CI: 0.45–0.86, p = .004). Order(s) of any type were placed in 54% of visits (52% telemedicine vs. 56% in‐person; adjusted RR: 0.92 for telemedicine, CI: 0.83–1.01, p = .082).

Conclusions

Telemedicine has been integrated into cancer rehabilitation physiatry practices and appears to be conducive for placing many types of orders, especially medications. Age was found to be the only major demographic difference between in‐person and telehealth patients.
Rhodamine‐based force‐sensitive organic polysiloxane for hardness recognition of inorganic particles
Authors: Wu Yifan , Xia Yangguang , Yuan Ye , Dou Ziyi , Kan Chenqun , Zhang Na , Wang Taisheng
Published: June 2024

The mechanochromic materials can respond to environmental changes by altering the optical properties of the system, which has garnered significant attention in recently. The utilization of these materials for the purpose of sensing tensile and compressive stress has been extensively documented. However, the mechanochromic polymer that can effectively discriminate hardness of inorganic particles is still rarely reported. In this article, a force‐sensitive organic polysiloxane was developed by introducing triethenyl‐substituted rhodamine derivatives crosslinker into the polymethylhydrosiloxane network through hydrosilylation addition reaction. The results demonstrated that the grinding of the crosslinked polysiloxane effectively facilitated the transmission of external force to the polymeric network, leading to an open ring isomerization of rhodamine accompanied by significant alterations in visible and fluorescent color. In addition, we found that the optical properties of the system showed distinct variations when the inorganic particles with different Moh's hardness were co‐ground with the polysiloxane. High Moh's hardness particles, such as Al2O3, could effectively trigger the mechanochromic behavior of the polymer, while Na2SO4 particles with low hardness failed to induce the corresponding change. Therefore, this organic polysiloxane could be used as a potential fluorescent indicator for hardness recognition.
Kinetic isotope effect reveals rate‐limiting step in green‐to‐red photoconvertible fluorescent proteins
Authors: Breen Bella , Whitelegge Julian P. , Wachter Rebekka M.
Published: June 2024

Photoconvertible fluorescent proteins (pcFPs) undergo a slow photochemical transformation when irradiated with blue light. Since their emission is shifted from green to red, pcFPs serve as convenient fusion tags in several cutting‐edge biological imaging technologies. Here, a pcFP termed the Least Evolved Ancestor (LEA) was used as a model system to determine the rate‐limiting step of photoconversion. Perdeuterated histidine residues were introduced by isotopic enrichment and chromophore content was monitored by absorbance. pH‐dependent photoconversion experiments were carried out by exposure to 405‐nm light followed by dark equilibration. The loss of green chromophore correlated well with the rise of red, and maximum photoconversion rates were observed at pH 6.5 (0.059 ± 0.001 min−1 for red color acquisition). The loss of green and the rise of red provided deuterium kinetic isotope effects (DKIEs) that were identical within error, 2.9 ± 0.9 and 3.8 ± 0.6, respectively. These data indicate that there is one rate‐determining step in the light reactions of photoconversion, and that CH bond cleavage occurs in the transition state of this step. We propose that these reactions are rate‐limited on the min time scale by the abstraction of a proton at the His62 beta‐carbon. A conformational intermediate such as a twisted or isomerized chromophore is proposed to slowly equilibrate in the dark to generate the red form. Additionally, His62 may shuttle protons to activate Glu211 to serve as a general base, while also facilitating beta‐elimination. This idea is supported by a recent X‐ray structure of methylated His62.
California provider and advocate perspectives about opportunities to optimize nutrition services and resources in the first 1000 days
Authors: Lindsay Karen L. , Robertson Trina , Leka Helen , Rosales Ashley , Smilowitz Jennifer T. , Lucas Candice Taylor
Published: June 2024

Background

Nutrition in the first 1000 days of life, from conception to age 2 years, plays a critical role in shaping offspring's physical and mental development, yet many families from underserved backgrounds suffer from nutrition inequity during this important stage of development. The objective of this study is to assess nutrition services and resources provided to families during the first 1000 days across diverse settings in California.

Methods

A semistructured survey was disseminated to healthcare and educational providers who offer services to pregnant and/or postpartum women and children up to age 2 years. Perspectives about five domains of early‐life nutrition services and resources were assessed: (1) accessibility, (2) mode of content delivery, (3) content of messages, (4) breastfeeding support, and (5) professional development on early‐life nutrition. Mixed methodology was used to conduct descriptive and thematic analyses for closed and open‐ended survey questions, respectively.

Results

Survey respondents (n = 148) worked in healthcare (37%), governmental (20%), community (20%), and childcare settings (23%). Over 60% primarily served low‐income families. Less than 9% reported that their organizations provide prenatal nutrition messaging about critical micronutrients required to support foetal neurodevelopment, highlighting an opportunity for professional development training in nutrition. Need for equitable access to nutrition education and resources by addressing 
Language, 
Income, 
Food resources, 
Time and 
Transportation (LIFTT) was a cross‐cutting theme that emerged.

Conclusion

Providers perceive a need to enhance LIFTT accessibility and improve delivery of early‐life nutrition‐related services for families in the first 1000 days by providing topic‐specific education and culturally responsive resources with consistent, evidence‐based messages.
Air‐Stable Na3.5C6O6 as a Sodium Compensation Additive in Cathode of Na‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cao Mengyan , Xu Liang , Guo Yujie , Li Yixin , Fang Qiu , Liu Yuan , Bai Rui , Zhu Jiacheng , Gao Yurui , Cheng Tao , Li Jifang , Wang Xuefeng , Guo Yuguo , Wang Zhaoxiang , Chen Liquan
Published: June 2024

Sodium‐ion battery (SIB) is a candidate for the stationary energy storage systems because of the low cost and high abundance of sodium. However, the energy density and lifespan of SIBs suffer severely from the irreversible consumption of the Na‐ions for the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer and other side reactions on the electrodes. Here, Na3.5C6O6 is proposed as an air‐stable high‐efficiency sacrificial additive in the cathode to compensate for the lost sodium. It is characteristic of low desodiation (oxidation) potential (3.4–3.6 V vs. Na+/Na) and high irreversible desodiation capacity (theoretically 378 mAh g−1). The feasibility of using Na3.5C6O6 as a sodium compensation additive is verified with the improved electrochemical performances of a Na2/3Ni1/3Mn1/3Ti1/3O2ǀǀhard carbon cells and cells using other cathode materials. In addition, the structure of Na3.5C6O6 and its desodiation path are also clarified on the basis of comprehensive physical characterizations and the density functional theory (DFT) calculations. This additive decomposes completely to supply abundant Na ions during the initial charge without leaving any electrochemically inert species in the cathode. Its decomposition product C6O6 enters the carbonate electrolyte without bringing any detectable negative effects. These findings open a new avenue for elevating the energy density and/or prolonging the lifetime of the high‐energy‐density secondary batteries.
Strategic Buried Defect Passivation of Perovskite Emitting Layers by Guanidinium Chloride for High‐Performance Pure Blue Perovskite Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Do Jung Jae , Jung Jae Woong
Published: June 2024

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) show promise for high‐definition displays due to their exceptional electroluminescent properties. However, the performance of pure blue PeLEDs is hindered by the unfavorable ionic behavior of halides and the presence of defective antisites in blue‐emitting perovskite materials. An unstable buried interface between charge transport layers and the perovskite emitting layer is a major issue that limits carrier transport and recombination behavior in PeLEDs. In this study, effective buried defect passivation of pure blue perovskite emitting layers by introducing guanidinium chloride (GACl) as a bottom‐passivating layer is demonstrated. The GACl bottom layer not only passivates the point defects present at the buried interface but also provides chloride anions to suppress ion migration and halide vacancy formation. Along with the defect passivation, GACl also enforces phase purity of 2D layered structure in the perovskite emitting layers to improve crystallinity and optoelectronic properties. As a result, the PeLEDs with high brightness (1200 cd m−2) and excellent external quantum efficiency (6.61%) are achieved at a spectrally stable pure blue electroluminescence at 471 nm (band width = 17.63 nm). This study offers insights into the straightforward way for effective buried passivation for preparing high‐performance PeLEDs.
Modeling of Gaseous Reduction of Iron Oxide Pellets Using Machine Learning Algorithms, Explainable Artificial Intelligence, and Hyperparameter Optimization Techniques
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Masih , Kasiri Norollah , Rezaei Mehran
Published: June 2024

In this study, a novel application of machine learning (ML) is introduced to pellet modeling in the intricate non‐catalytic gas–solid reaction of direct reduction of iron oxide in the steel industry. Twenty ML models are developed using four algorithms: multilayer perceptron neural networks (MLPNN), radial basis function neural network (RBFNN), support vector regression, and random forest (RF). Hyperparameter optimization is conducted using Bayesian algorithms, random search, and grid search. The optimum model achieves a mean squared error test of 0.0052 with random RF for the larger dataset (872 samples), while smaller datasets (132, 225, and 242 samples) produce optimum models with MLPNN and RBFNN. Hyperparameters vary between the larger datasets and the smaller datasets. The models offer insight into the complex interactions among variables, including time, temperature, gas composition, hematite composition, pellet radius, and initial pellet porosity, influencing the metallization degree. In this study, the significant role of time and temperature is emphasized, as revealed by explainable artificial intelligence using Shapley additive explanation analysis that utilizes the game theory, and the effects of pellet modeling parameters are elucidated through 3D plots, particularly highlighting the impact of changing H2/CO proportion on metallization degree and carbon deposit.
Lithium Tris(Oxalato)Aaluminate and its Hydrates: Structure, Dehydration and Thermal Decomposition
Authors: Missyul Alexander , Kreuzer Martin , Usoltsev Oleg , Arsentev Maxim , Chislov Mikhail
Published: June 2024

The double oxalates MI3[MIII(C2O4)3] possess rich crystallochemistry and can be used as precursors for various ceramic materials. The article discusses a case of Li3[Al(C2O4)3]. A series of previously unknown hydrates (Li3[Al(C2O4)3] ⋅ 5.5H2O, Li3[Al(C2O4)3] ⋅ 4H2O, Li3[Al(C2O4)3] ⋅ H2O) was found for this composition, their crystal structure and temperatures of mutual transformations determined. Transformation from Li3[Al(C2O4)3] ⋅ 4H2O to Li3[Al(C2O4)3] ⋅ H2O was found to be accompanied by a change in the topology of the bonding network. Uniaxial negative thermal expansion was found for anhydrous Li3[Al(C2O4)3]. Thermal decomposition of Li3[Al(C2O4)3] was demonstrated to be a promising way to obtain precursors for aluminate ceramics.
Dynamic Coordination Behavior of a Structurally Constrained, Nucleophilic Sn(II) Towards Gold(I)
Authors: Ruppert Heiko , Schreyer Till , Dietl Martin C. , Rudolph Matthias , Hashmi A. Stephen K. , Greb Lutz
Published: June 2024

Tetradentate meso‐octaalkylcalix[4]pyrroles are well‐established ligands in d‐ and f‐block chemistry. In contrast to the related porphyrins, the sp3‐hybridized meso‐carbon atoms linking the four pyrrole units result in highly divers coordination modes. We previously reported on the combination of this ligand system with Sn(II) centers yielding tetracoordinated stannate(II) anions which could be employed as electron‐rich, strong σ‐donor ligands in transition metal chemistry. With this work we are extending the coordination chemistry of meso‐octaethylcalix[4]pyrrolato stannate(II) [1]2− onto gold(I). Synthesis of mono‐ and dinuclear gold complexes reveal a new dynamic binding mode involving μ2‐bridging coordination of a pyrrole nitrogen atom to both Sn and Au. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and variable temperature NMR spectroscopy combined with quantum mechanical computations and bond analysis tools shed light on the involved intermediates.
Pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma: Case report of a patient managed with multimodality treatment and a comprehensive literature review
Authors: Atahan C. , Güral Z. , Yücel S. , Ağaoğlu F.
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma (PAIS) is a rare and aggressive malignancy originating from the intimal layer of the pulmonary artery with poor prognosis due to its aggressive nature. The management of PAIS poses both diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. It presents with nonspecific symptoms and is often misdiagnosed as pulmonary embolism. While surgical resection is the primary treatment modality, the role of adjuvant chemotherapy and radiotherapy remains uncertain. However, given the high recurrence rate, adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy have been utilized in a limited number of case reports. We present the case of a 46-year-old woman who was diagnosed with PAIS and underwent surgical resection followed by adjuvant chemotherapy (ChT) and radiotherapy (RT), demonstrating good tolerance to this multimodal treatment approach.
Minimum Cut in $$O(m\log ^2 n)$$ Time
Authors: Gawrychowski Paweł , Mozes Shay , Weimann Oren
Published: June 2024

We give a randomized algorithm that finds a minimum cut in an undirected weighted m-edge n-vertex graph G with high probability in $$O(m \log ^2 n)$$

O
(
m

log
2

n
)

time. This is the first improvement to Karger’s celebrated $$O(m \log ^3 n)$$

O
(
m

log
3

n
)

time algorithm from 1996. Our main technical contribution is a deterministic $$O(m \log n)$$

O
(
m
log
n
)

time algorithm that, given a spanning tree T of G, finds a minimum cut of G that 2-respects (cuts two edges of) T.
Birds do not use social learning of landmarks to locate favorable nest sites
Authors: Slagsvold Tore , Wiebe Karen L.
Published: June 2024

Experiments since the classic studies of Niko Tinbergen have provided evidence that animals use visual landmarks to navigate. We tested whether birds use visual landmarks to relocate their nest sites by presenting two species of cavity nesting birds with a dyad of nest boxes with different white markings around the entrance, a circle or a triangle. When the two boxes were erected in close proximity on the same tree, pied flycatchers Ficedula hypoleuca and blue tits Cyanistes caeruleus confused the entrance of their nest both when the boxes had different external markings and when they were unmarked. Most females added nest material to both boxes of a dyad and one third of the flycatchers laid eggs in both boxes although a female can only incubate the eggs in one nest at a time. Thus, the birds did not use external markings around cavity entrances for orientation. We also tried to replicate a previous study purporting to show that migratory birds use social learning of the external appearance of nests from other species. However, pied flycatchers did not choose boxes with the same painted markings as those applied to nests of resident great tits Parus major which were judged to be high quality “demonstrators” from their large clutch sizes. We argue that conclusions from previous studies on social learning based on external markings as landmarks on nest cavities in birds need to be reconsidered.
Morphological and life-history plastic responses to predators and competitors in two brown frogs,Rana dalmatina and R. Latastei
Authors: Castellano Sergio , Seglie Daniele , Friard Olivier
Published: June 2024

Predation and competition are two major factors that drive natural selection. When they vary unpredictably, selection has promoted the evolution of plastic responses in behavioral, morphological and life-history traits. These responses are not independent of each other and often represent a trade-off between conflicting interests. We conducted a common-garden experiment to study the effects of predation and competition on the morphology and life history of R. dalmatina and R. latastei tadpoles. The experiment used a randomized-block design, where tadpoles were raised either with or without siblings and either with or without predators. Regardless of the treatments, R. dalmatina grew faster, developed proportionally larger tails, proportionally smaller bodies, and completed metamorphosis earlier than R. latastei. Both species developed relatively larger bodies with competitors, and relatively larger tails with predators. While the relative increase in body size with competitors was similar in the two species, the increase in tail size with predators was greater in R. dalmatina, suggesting that this species invested more in defense than R latastei. Competitors delayed metamorphosis in both species and in R. latastei they negatively affected froglet body size and shape. Conversely, predators delayed the metamorphosis only in R. dalmatina. This delay was the long-term cost paid by R. dalmatina for the short-term benefits of developing more effective behavioral and morphological defensive traits.
Obesity is associated with adverse outcomes in primary immune thrombocytopenia - a retrospective single-center study
Authors: Xiao Zhengrui , He Zhiqiang , Nguyen Hieu Liem Le , Thakur Rahul Kumar , Hammami M. Bakri , Narvel Hiba , Vegivinti Charan Thej Reddy , Townsend Noelle , Billett Henny , Murakhovskaya Irina
Published: June 2024

The pathophysiology of immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) involves immune-mediated platelet destruction. The presence of adipose tissue in obese individuals creates an inflammatory environment that could potentially impact the clinical course and outcomes of ITP. However the relationship between obesity and ITP outcomes has not been well described. We evaluated ITP outcomes in 275 patients diagnosed with primary ITP from 2012 to 2022. Patients were categorized into four groups based on their body mass index (BMI) at diagnosis. Female gender was associated with a lower platelet count at the time of diagnosis at any BMI. Patients with high BMI had lower platelet counts at diagnosis and at platelet nadir (p < 0.001), an increased likelihood of requiring therapy (p < 0.001) and requiring multiple lines of therapy (p = 0.032). Non-obese patients who required corticosteroid treatment experienced a longer remission duration compared to obese patients (p = 0.009) and were less likely to be steroid-dependent (p = 0.048). Our findings suggest that obesity may be a significant risk factor for developing ITP and for ITP prognosis. Future studies are needed to evaluate the role of weight loss intervention in improving ITP outcomes.