bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Vision for LLZO Carbonate Formation: Perspectives on Surface Treatment Approaches and Characterization Techniques
Authors: Ghorbanzade Pedram , López‐Aranguren Pedro , López del Amo Juan Miguel
Published: April 2024

Li7La3Zr2O12 garnets are among the most promising materials for solid‐state electrolytes thanks to their high electrochemical stability and ionic conductivity. However, they are unstable in air and easily undergo a Li+/H+ exchange reaction, forming a lithiophobic and poorly Li‐conducting surface layer composed of LiOH and Li2CO3 upon further reaction with CO2. Despite a simple reaction mechanism, protonation of LLZO is a complex phenomenon. The thickness and composition of the secondary phases on the surface depend on many parameters both in the LLZO properties and in the storage atmosphere. Due to this complexity, proposing a universal procedure for removing the secondary phases is not simple. However, understanding the role of different parameters and rational selection of characterization techniques makes it possible to find the optimal conditions for removing the LiOH/Li2CO3 layer and further processing each material. This work compares some of the main approaches for cleaning the LLZO surface and describes their advantages and shortcomings. Additionally, the strengths and limitations of the most common characterization techniques for analyzing the (de)protonation of LLZO (XRD, XPS, Raman, NMR, TGA) are explained to help researchers design their experiments more accurately.
Synergistic effects of graphene quantum dots nanocarriers and folic acid targeting agent on enhanced killing of breast cancer cells by tamoxifen
Authors: Ghanbari Narges , Fam Ashkan Mohammadali , Salehi Zeinab , Khodadadi Abbas Ali , Safarian Shahrokh
Published: April 2024

In this study, a new targeted and controlled‐release drug delivery system based on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) was fabricated. The fluorescent GQDs were synthesized via an environmentally‐friendly chemical oxidation method, using graphene oxide (GO) as a precursor and hydrogen peroxide and ammonia solution as oxidants. Folic acid (FA), as a targeting agent, was bound to GQDs through strong amide covalent bindings, and tamoxifen (TMX), as a hydrophobic anticancer drug, was non‐covalently attached to the nanocarrier via π–π stacking bonds. The as‐prepared GQDs and TMX/FA‐GQDs were characterized using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV/Vis spectroscopy (UV/Vis), and photoluminescence spectroscopy (PL). The resulting TMX/GQDs demonstrated pH‐sensitive release behaviour with an overall release of 85% and 58% at pH 5.5 and 7.4, respectively, after 120 h. Also, the MTT assay test performed on MCF‐7 cells presented negligible toxicity of the nanocarriers, even at high concentrations. At the same time, the targeted nanocarrier, TMX/FA‐GQDs, showed much more toxicity towards MCF‐7 cells than the non‐targeted one and free TMX.
Controlling the Reactivity of IBA‐N3 by Switching Halogen Salts: Providing a Universal Strategy for Haloazidation of Alkenes
Authors: Xia Chen‐Xi , Sun Xin‐Lei , Zhang Jinfeng , Ren Yue , Yu Yan , Wang Kuai , Meng Ling‐Guo
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Although various routes have been reported for haloazidation, unavoidable problems exist, such as environmentally unfriendly monomer halogen, the need for in situ generation of unstable halogen azides (XN3), applicability to one type of haloazidation and inability to precisely control selectivity. Herein, we developed a universal strategy for haloazidation of alkenes through controlling the reactivity of IBA‐N3 by switching halogen salts, allowing for the synthesis of a diversity of halogen azide products. Mechanistic studies have shown that by tuning the reactivity of IBA‐N3 via switching halogen salts, different intermediates can be controllably produced to achieve regioselectivity and chemoselectivity in the haloazidation of alkenes.
Family characteristics and childcare patterns associated with early social functioning in cancer‐bereaved parents
Authors: Snaman Jennifer M. , Chen Li , Mazzola Emanuele , Helton Gabrielle , Feifer Deborah , Broden Elizabeth , McCarthy Sarah , Rosenberg Abby R. , Baker Justin N. , Wolfe Joanne
Published: April 2024

Background

Bereaved parents experience life‐long grief after the death of their child from cancer. Parents who can integrate their grief and maintain their social functioning early in bereavement, even in the setting of concurrent psychosocial distress, have improved outcomes. Identifying the factors associated with bereaved parents' early social functioning can guide future supportive interventions.

Methods

The authors surveyed parents of children who died from cancer at two large centers 6–24 months after death, assessing bereavement experiences using validated and pilot tested tools. Univariable and multivariable logistical regression models were used to examine which family and child demographic, treatment, and end‐of‐life (EOL) factors were associated with maintained parental social functioning (T scores ≥40 on the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Ability to Participate in Social Roles and Activities‐Short Form questionnaire).

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight parents of 88 children participated (38% household response rate); most parents identified as female (63%) and White (88%). Parents' median age was 47 years (interquartile range, 10 years); and the median time from the child's death to survey completion was 13 months (interquartile range, 10 months). In multivariate modeling, parents without household material hardship and those who felt prepared for EOL circumstances had increased odds of maintained social functioning (odds ratio, 4.7 [95% confidence interval, 1.6–13.7; p < .004] and 5.5 [95% confidence interval, 1.9–15.9; p < .002], respectively).

Conclusions

Parents who felt prepared for their child's EOL and those without household material hardship were more likely to have maintained social functioning in the first 2 years after their child’s death. Interventions targeting EOL preparedness and alleviating household material hardship may improve bereavement outcomes.
Justice in the balance: The crucial role of disclosure in ensuring justice in Jordanian arbitration
Authors: Tarawneh Mosleh A. , Alhasan Tariq K.
Published: April 2024

As an alternative to traditional court litigation, arbitration has gained prominence in Jordan's legal landscape for its distinct attributes like speediness, confidentiality, autonomy, and efficiency. Central to the sanctity of this mechanism is the arbitrator's duty of disclosure, ensuring that the arbitration process remains impartial, transparent, and devoid of any potential bias. This paper explores the profound significance of the duty of disclosure in Jordan by analyzing the latest Jordanian Court of Cassation Decision No. 1479 of 2023, where nondisclosure by the Arbitral Tribunal led to the annulment of the arbitral award. Through juxtaposing international arbitration norms and thoroughly examining Jordanian legislation, this study underscores the consequences of nondisclosure and the paramount importance of transparency in arbitration. The insights drawn from this case reaffirm that the foundation of arbitration's credibility and trustworthiness rests on the rigorous adherence of arbitrators to disclosure, ensuring that justice is not only served but is transparently perceived.
Extending the phenotypic spectrum assessed by the CDR plus NACC FTLD in genetic frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Samra Kiran , Peakman Georgia , MacDougall Amy M. , Bouzigues Arabella , Greaves Caroline V. , Convery Rhian S. , van Swieten John C. , Jiskoot Lize , Seelaar Harro , Moreno Fermin , Sanchez‐Valle Raquel , Laforce Robert , Graff Caroline , Masellis Mario , Tartaglia Maria Carmela , Rowe James B. , Borroni Barbara , Finger Elizabeth , Synofzik Matthis , Galimberti Daniela , Vandenberghe Rik , de Mendonça Alexandre , Butler Chris R. , Gerhard Alexander , Ducharme Simon , Ber Isabelle Le , Tiraboschi Pietro , Santana Isabel , Pasquier Florence , Levin Johannes , Otto Markus , Sorbi Sandro , Rohrer Jonathan D. , Russell Lucy L. ,    Genetic FTD Initiative (GENFI)
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to expand the range of the frontotemporal dementia (FTD) phenotypes assessed by the Clinical Dementia Rating Dementia Staging Instrument plus National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Behavior and Language Domains (CDR plus NACC FTLD).

METHODS

Neuropsychiatric and motor domains were added to the standard CDR plus NACC FTLD generating a new CDR plus NACC FTLD‐NM scale. This was assessed in 522 mutation carriers and 310 mutation‐negative controls from the Genetic Frontotemporal dementia Initiative (GENFI).

RESULTS

The new scale led to higher global severity scores than the CDR plus NACC FTLD: 1.4% of participants were now considered prodromal rather than asymptomatic, while 1.3% were now considered symptomatic rather than asymptomatic or prodromal. No participants with a clinical diagnosis of an FTD spectrum disorder were classified as asymptomatic using the new scales.

DISCUSSION

Adding new domains to the CDR plus NACC FTLD leads to a scale that encompasses the wider phenotypic spectrum of FTD with further work needed to validate its use more widely.

Highlights

The new Clinical Dementia Rating Dementia Staging Instrument plus National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center Behavior and Language Domains neuropsychiatric and motor (CDR plus NACC FTLD‐NM) rating scale was significantly positively correlated with the original CDR plus NACC FTLD and negatively correlated with the FTD Rating Scale (FRS).

No participants with a clinical diagnosis in the frontotemporal dementia spectrum were classified as asymptomatic with the new CDR plus NACC FTLD‐NM rating scale.

Individuals had higher global severity scores with the addition of the neuropsychiatric and motor domains.

A receiver operating characteristic analysis of symptomatic diagnosis showed nominally higher areas under the curve for the new scales.
Department of Education issues guidance for students with diabetes
Authors: Charmatz Marc
Published: April 2024

In February 2024, the United States Department of Education Office for Civil Rights issued guidance pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act to assist colleges and universities for students with diabetes (https://www.ed.gov/news/press‐releases/us‐department‐educations‐office‐ civil‐rights‐releases‐new‐resources‐students‐disabilities). Section 504 applies to postsecondary educational institutions receiving federal financial assistance.
The unique multidisciplinarity of diabetes‐related foot disease
Authors: van Netten Jaap J. , Apelqvist Jan , Bus Sicco A. , Fitridge Robert , Game Fran , Monteiro‐Soares Matilde , Senneville Eric , Schaper Nicolaas C.
Published: April 2024

Few diseases globally require treatment from so many different disciplines as diabetes‐related foot disease. At least 25 different professionals may be involved: casting technicians, dermatologists, diabetes (educator) nurses, diabetologists, dieticians, endocrinologists, general practitioners, human movement scientists, infectious diseases experts, microbiologists, nuclear medicine physicians, orthopaedic surgeons, orthotists, pedorthists, physical therapists, plastic surgeons, podiatric surgeons, podiatrists, prosthetists, psychologists, radiologists, social workers, tissue viability physicians, vascular surgeons, and wound care nurses. A shared vocabulary and shared treatment goals and recommendations are then essential. The International Working Group on the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) has produced guidelines and supporting documents to stimulate and support shared and multidisciplinary evidence‐based treatment in diabetes‐related foot disease. In this special virtual issue of Diabetes/Metabolism Research and Reviews, all 21 documents of the 2023 update of the IWGDF Guidelines are bundled, added with a further 6 reviews from multidisciplinary experts to drive future research and clinical innovations, based on their contributions to the International Symposium on the Diabetic Foot. We hope the readers will enjoy this special virtual issue, and widely implement the knowledge shared here in their daily clinical practice and research endeavours with the goal to improve the care for people with diabetes‐related foot disease.
Adaptive design trials in eating disorder research: A scoping review
Authors: Edney Laura C. , Pellizzer Mia L.
Published: April 2024

Objective

This scoping review sought to map the breadth of literature on the use of adaptive design trials in eating disorder research.

Method

A systematic literature search was conducted in Medline, Scopus, PsycInfo, Emcare, Econlit, CINAHL and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. Articles were included if they reported on an intervention targeting any type of eating disorder (including anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge‐eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorders), and employed the use of an adaptive design trial to evaluate the intervention. Two independent reviewers screened citations for inclusion, and data abstraction was performed by one reviewer and verified by a second.

Results

We identified five adaptive design trials targeting anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge‐eating disorder conducted in the USA and Australia. All employed adaptive treatment arm switching based on early response to treatment and identified a priori stopping rules. None of the studies included value of information analysis to guide adaptive design decisions and none included lived experience perspectives.

Discussion

The limited use of adaptive designs in eating disorder trials represents a missed opportunity to improve enrolment targets, attrition rates, treatment outcomes and trial efficiency. We outline the range of adaptive methodologies, how they could be applied to eating disorder research, and the specific operational and statistical considerations relevant to adaptive design trials.

Public significance

Adaptive design trials are increasingly employed as flexible, efficient alternatives to fixed trial designs, but they are not often used in eating disorder research. This first scoping review identified five adaptive design trials targeting anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa and binge‐eating disorder that employed treatment arm switching adaptive methodology. We make recommendations on the use of adaptive design trials for future eating disorder trials.
Habitat modifies the relationship between grass and herbivore species richness in a South African savanna
Authors: Čuda Jan , Pyšková Klára , Hejda Martin , Foxcroft Llewellyn C. , MacFadyen Sandra , Storch David , Tropek Robert , Zambatis Guin , Pyšek Petr
Published: April 2024

The savanna ecosystem is dominated by grasses, which are a key food source for many species of grazing animals. This relationship creates a diverse mosaic of habitats and contributes to the high grass species richness of savannas. However, how grazing interacts with environmental conditions in determining grass species richness and abundance in savannas is still insufficiently understood. In the Kruger National Park, South Africa, we recorded grass species and estimated their covers in 60 plots 50 × 50 m in size, accounting for varying proximity to water and different bedrocks. To achieve this, we located plots (i) near perennial rivers, near seasonal rivers, and on crests that are distant from all water sources and (ii) on nutrient‐rich basaltic and nutrient‐poor granitic bedrock. The presence and abundance of large herbivores were recorded by 60 camera traps located in the same plots. Grass cover was higher at crests and seasonal rivers than at perennial rivers and on basalts than on granites. The relationship between grass species richness and herbivore abundance or species richness was positive at crests, while that between grass species richness and herbivore species richness was negative at seasonal rivers. We found no support for controlling the dominance of grasses by herbivores in crests, but herbivore‐induced microsite heterogeneity may account for high grass species richness there. In contrast, the decrease in grass species richness with herbivore species richness at seasonal rivers indicates that the strong grazing pressure over‐rides the resistance of some species to grazing and trampling. We suggest that the relationships between grasses and herbivores may work in both directions, but the relationship is habitat‐dependent, so that in less productive environments, the effect of herbivores on vegetation prevails, while in more productive environments along rivers the effect of vegetation and water supply on herbivores is more important.
Climate and habitat type interact to influence contemporary dispersal potential in Prairie Smoke (Geum triflorum)
Authors: Sullivan Lauren L. , Portlas Zoe M. , Jaeger Kelsey M. , Hoffner Mercedes , Hamilton Jill A.
Published: April 2024

Understanding dispersal potential, or the probability a species will move a given distance, under different environmental conditions is essential to predicting species' ability to move across the landscape and track shifting ecological niches. Two important drivers of dispersal ability are climatic differences and variations in local habitat type. Despite the likelihood these global drivers act simultaneously on plant populations, and thus dispersal potential is likely to change as a result, their combined effects on dispersal are rarely examined. To understand the effect of climate and varying habitat types on dispersal potential, we studiedGeum triflorum—a perennial grassland species that spans a wide range of environments, including both prairie and alvar habitats. We explored how the climate of the growing season and habitat type (prairie vs. alvar) interact to alter dispersal potential. We found a consistent interactive effect of climate and habitat type on dispersal potential. Across prairie populations, an increased number of growing degree days favored traits that increase dispersal potential or the probability of dispersing farther distances. However, for alvar populations, dispersal potential tended to decrease as the number of growing degree days increased. Our findings suggest that under continued warming, populations in prairie habitats will benefit from increased gene flow, while alvar populations will become increasingly segregated, with reduced potential to track shifting fitness optima.
Inspiring basic and applied research in genome integrity mechanisms: Dedication to Samuel H. Wilson
Authors: Yan Shan , Gaddameedhi Shobhan , Sobol Robert W.
Published: April 2024

This Special Issue (SI) of Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis (EMM), entitled “Inspiring Basic and Applied Research in Genome Integrity Mechanisms,” is to update the community on recent findings and advances on genome integrity mechanisms with emphasis on their importance for basic and environmental health sciences. This SI includes two research articles, one brief research communication, and four reviews that highlight cutting edge research findings and perspectives, from both established leaders and junior trainees, on DNA repair mechanisms. In particular, the authors provided an updated understanding on several distinct enzymes (e.g., DNA polymerase beta, DNA polymerase theta, DNA glycosylase NEIL2) and the associated molecular mechanisms in base excision repair, nucleotide excision repair, and microhomology‐mediated end joining of double‐strand breaks. In addition, genome‐wide sequencing analysis or site‐specific mutational signature analysis of DNA lesions from environmental mutagens (e.g., UV light and aflatoxin) provide further characterization and sequence context impact of DNA damage and mutations. This SI is dedicated to the legacy of Dr. Samuel H. Wilson from the U.S. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences at the National Institutes of Health.
Bayesian detection with feedback for cooperative spectrum sensing in cognitive UAV networks
Authors: Wu Jun , Su Mingkun , Qiao Lei , Cao Weiwei
Published: April 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are becoming a popular research topic in applications that do not require human intervention. A variety of applications and devices coexist in the environment where UAVs operate, resulting in a serious spectrum shortage. Therefore, cognitive radio (CR) is a promising solution for opportunistic access to underutilized spectrum bands by the primary user (PU) through cooperative spectrum sensing (CSS) technique. However, the flexible location of UAVs makes CSS inefficient and even difficult to be implemented. In view of this, a cognitive UAV network model consisting of a pair of UAVs which follows a circular flight trajectory to participate in CSS is proposed in a spectrum sensing frame structure. According to the local energy detection, we further propose an optimization problem about the stopping time in a quickest detection paradigm and conduct out Bayesian detection method with feedback to minimize the sensing delay and the false alarm probability by optimizing the stopping time. Moreover, we theoretically derive the optimal threshold pair and prove the optimal stopping time by means of Markov process. At last, a series of numerical simulations are shown to corroborate the proposed Bayesian detection method with feedback, in terms of the false alarm probability, the sensing delay, and achievable throughput. In contrast to the classic Neyman‐Pearson and Bayesian detection methods, the advantage of Bayesian detection method with feedback sensing is presented.
A profiled side‐channel attack detection using deep learning model with capsule auto‐encoder network
Authors: Maheswari Raja , Krishnamurthy Marudhamuthu
Published: April 2024

Side‐channel analysis (SCA) is a type of cryptanalytic attack that uses unintended ‘side‐channel’ leakage through the real‐world execution of the cryptographic algorithm to crack a secret key of an embedded system. These side‐channel errors can be discovered through tracking the energy usage of the device performing the technique, electromagnetic radiations while the encryption process, execution time, cache hits/misses, and others. Nowadays, deep learning‐based detection techniques are considered as emerging techniques that have been proposed for attack detection. Deep learning architectures have the ability to learn autonomously and concentrate on difficult features, in contrast to machine learning models. In light of these factors, the work's motive is thought to be the proposal of a deep learning‐based attack detection method. Many methods are used to decrease these assaults, however, the majority of them are inefficient and time‐demanding. In order to address these challenges, this study employs a novel deep learning‐based methodology. Pre‐processing, feature extraction, and SCA classification are the three stages of the approach proposed in this work. First, pre‐processing is used to remove unnecessary information and improve the quality of the input using data cleaning and min‐max normalization. The previously processed data are then fed as input into the proposed hybrid deep learning architecture. A Deep Residual Capsule Auto‐Encoder (DR_CAE) model is introduced in the proposed study. The deep residual neural network‐50 (DRNN‐50) is utilized to extract relevant features in this case, while the side channel analysis is done by using capsule auto‐encoder (CAE). The parameters of the proposed model are adjusted using the modified white shark optimization (MWSO) technique to improve its performance. In the results section, the proposed model is compared to various existing models in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, F‐measures, time, and so on. The proposed framework has an accuracy of 98.802%, F‐measures of 98.801%, kappa coefficient of 97.6%, the precision value of 98.81%, and recall value of 98.80%.
A perspective of lipid nanoparticles for RNA delivery
Authors: Ma Yutian , Li Shiyao , Lin Xin , Chen Yupeng
Published: April 2024

Over the last two decades, lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) have evolved as an effective biocompatible and biodegradable RNA delivery platform in the fields of nanomedicine, biotechnology, and drug delivery. They are novel bionanomaterials that can be used to encapsulate a wide range of biomolecules, such as mRNA, as demonstrated by the current successes of COVID‐19 mRNA vaccines. Therefore, it is important to provide a perspective on LNPs for RNA delivery, which further offers useful guidance for researchers who want to work in the RNA‐based LNP field. This perspective first summarizes the approaches for the preparation of LNPs, followed by the introduction of the key characterization parameters. Then, the in vitro cell experiments to study LNP performance, including cell selection, cell viability, cellular association/uptake, endosomal escape, and their efficacy, were summarized. Finally, the in vivo animal experiments in the aspects of animal selection, administration, dosing and safety, and their therapeutic efficacy were discussed. The authors hope this perspective can offer valuable guidance to researchers who enter the field of RNA‐based LNPs and help them understand the crucial parameters that RNA‐based LNPs demand.
Strontium isotope stratigraphy of marine Oligocene–Miocene sedimentary successions of Kutch Basin, western India
Authors: Singh Rimjhim , Vadlamani Ravikant , Bajpai Sunil , Maurya Abhayanand Singh
Published: April 2024

The Kutch Basin of western India exposes one of the most complete, fossiliferous marine Cenozoic sedimentary sequences of India. Precise depositional ages of these sequences are of great importance in the reconstruction of palaeoclimatic and palaeobiogeographic histories of the basin. Due to the poorly constrained foraminiferal biostratigraphic ages, we conducted high‐resolution87Sr/86Sr chronology of the various fossiliferous, stratigraphically continuous units of Oligocene–Miocene strata in Kutch Basin. Besides updating the previously determined87Sr/86Sr chronology, we report new numerical depositional ages for Oligocene–Miocene formations and members, and correlated these ages to the existing biostratigraphic schemes. The new87Sr/86Sr data indicates a depositional age range between 28.64 + 0.29/‐1.11 and 23.51 + 1.53/‐1.85 Ma (Rupelian‐Chattian) for the Maniyara Fort Formation, between 23.07 + 0.94/1.39 and 18.09 + 0.24/‐0.57 Ma (Chattian‐Burdigalian) for the Khari Nadi Formation, and between 15.11 + 0.56/‐2.87 and 12.29 + 1.22/‐1.9 Ma (Langhian‐Serravallian) for the Chhasra Formation. The sedimentation rate, determined through numerical ages derived from87Sr/86Sr, indicates an increase in sedimentation for the Khari Nadi (0.23 ± 0.04 cm/kyr) and Chhasra (0.12 ± 0.04 cm/kyr) formations, likely related to uplift of the Himalaya‐Tibetan plateau and intensification of the Indian Summer Monsoon. The bulk sediment element ratios (V/Ni, Ni/Co and V/Cr) indicate oxic to suboxic palaeo‐redox conditions during deposition of the Oligocene–Miocene successions of the basin. Based on new and updated87Sr/86Sr chronology, the depositional environments and sedimentation rates of the Kutch sequence are correlated with changes in sea‐level, sedimentation rates in the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal, and the global climate changes across the Oligocene–Miocene boundary.
The Two Janus Faces of CpRu‐Based Deallylation Catalysts and Their Application for in Cellulo Prodrug Uncaging
Authors: Baiyoumy Alain , Vinck Robin , Ward Thomas R.
Published: April 2024

In the past 18 years, metal‐catalyzed deallylation has proven a useful tool for studying biological processes in cellulo and in the early development of innovative therapeutic catalytic strategies. This reaction is catalyzed by Ru‐piano stool complexes and has been reported to be compatible with air, water, and thiol‐containing compounds such as glutathione. However, little is known about the true influence of biological components on the outcome of this reaction. The results presented herein reveal that the co‐solvent used in the reaction affects the complex's stability and activity in air, while the presence of glutathione contributes to minimizing the formation of N‐allylated by‐products. In addition, we studied the effect of air on the Ru‐catalyzed deallylation. Importantly, we found that, in the presence of air, the complex is deactivated and oxidizes glutathione into its disulfide.
Verification report: Egalitarianism in young children
Authors: Clift Georgia , Beaudry Jennifer , Leung Sumie , Kaufman Jordy
Published: April 2024

The present study sought to evaluate the reproducibility of prominent findings stated by Fehr et al. in their developmental resource allocation experiment "Egalitarianism in Young Children", published in 2008. The experiment involved children making decisions about distributing sweets between themselves and either an in‐group or an out‐group recipient. Fehr et al. found that (1) inequity aversion develops with age; (2) 3‐ to 4‐year‐old children are inclined toward self‐advantageous allocations, whereas 7‐ to 8‐year‐olds distribute sweets more evenly in divisions, and (3) the influence of group status increases as children age. The original article stated that 229 Swiss school students aged 3 to 8 years (102 boys, 127 girls) participated in the study. However, no further demographics were reported. In our attempts to reproduce Fehr et al.'s original analyses and reanalyse the raw dataset, we found that one of the key variables was miscoded. After rectifying the miscoded variable, the reproduction results revealed only one ambiguously irreproducible result regarding a group status main effect in the sharing mini‐game—with three other tests exhibiting either strong reproducibility or ambiguous reproducibility. Reanalysis results indicated that Fehr et al.'s conclusions are robust when tested with alternative analytical tests.

Highlights

We evaluated the reproducibility of Fehr et al.'s (2008) highly cited developmental resource allocation findings.

After identifying an inversely coded variable, we found all tests—bar one probit regression not related to major findings—to be reproducible. Reanalysis confirmed the robustness of Fehr et al.'s conclusions when using alternate analytical methods.

Fehr et al.'s developmental resource allocation findings are reproducible and have theoretical implications for understanding inequity aversion and group status effects on resource allocation decisions in young children.
RUNX1 regulates promoter activity in the absence of cognate DNA binding motifs
Authors: Woodworth Alex M. , Hardy Kristine , Taberlay Phillippa C. , Dickinson Joanne L. , Holloway Adele F.
Published: April 2024

Runt‐related transcription factor 1 (RUNX1) plays an important role in normal haematopoietic cell development and function, and its function is frequently disrupted in leukaemia. RUNX1 is widely recognised as a sequence‐specific DNA binding factor that recognises the motif 5′‐TG(T/C)GGT‐3′ in promoter and enhancer regions of its target genes. Moreover, RUNX1 fusion proteins, such as RUNX1‐ETO formed by the t(8;21) translocation, retain the ability to recognise and bind to this sequence to elicit atypical gene regulatory effects on bona fide RUNX1 targets. However, our analysis of publicly available RUNX1 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP‐Seq) data has provided evidence challenging this dogma, revealing that this motif‐specific model of RUNX1 recruitment and function is incomplete. Our analyses revealed that the majority of RUNX1 genomic localisation occurs outside of promoters, that 20% of RUNX1 binding sites lack consensus RUNX motifs, and that binding in the absence of a cognate binding site is more common in promoter regions compared to distal sites. Reporter assays demonstrate that RUNX1 can drive promoter activity in the absence of a recognised DNA binding motif, in contrast to RUNX1‐ETO. RUNX1‐ETO supresses activity when it is recruited to promoters containing a sequence specific motif, while interestingly, it binds but does not repress promoters devoid of a RUNX1 recognition site. These data suggest that RUNX1 regulation of target genes occurs through multiple mechanisms depending on genomic location, the type of regulatory element and mode of recruitment.
Green preparation of Fe3O4/HA/CS magnetic nanoparticles for oil–water separation
Authors: Wu Wei , Ma Xiaoqian , Wang Rui , Zhang Dayong
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Demulsification using chitosan (CS)‐coated magnetic nanomaterials has garnered significant attention. However, traditional methods for synthesizing chitosan (CS)‐coated magnetic nanomaterials are often contaminated, laborious, and time‐consuming. Moreover, they showed poor demulsification efficiency due to the occupation of free amino groups in CS by crosslinking agents.

RESULTS

CS‐coated Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized using humic acid (HA) as a bridge. The Fe3O4/HA/CS MNPs are recyclable demulsifiers for hexadecane‐water microemulsions. The impacts of MNP dosage, separation time, and pH on demulsification efficiency were studied comprehensively. Compared with Fe3O4/HA and Fe3O4/CS MNPs, the demulsification efficiency of the Fe3O4/HA/CS MNPs was superior. The pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model and the Sips isotherm best describe the demulsification process. Combined with the influence factors of demulsification efficiency, the demulsification mechanism involves electrostatic interactions between MNPs and oil microparticles. The maximum adsorption capacity for oil by the Fe3O4/HA/CS MNPs was 91.73 mg g−1.

CONCLUSION

This research presents a new method for connecting CS to MNPs with a high surface positive charge. As synthesized Fe3O4/HA/CS MNPs is expected to serve as highly efficient and recyclable demulsifiers for emulsified oil wastewater. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Deoxygenation of N‐heterocyclic N‐oxides with Selectfluor and disulfane
Authors: Çelikoğlu Muhammed Hanifi , Uçar Sefa , Nişancı Bilal
Published: April 2024

Herein, we describe a metal‐free methodology using Selectfluor with disulfane, for the deoxygenation of N‐heterocyclic N‐oxides (33 examples). This effective, robust, and simple methodology enables the synthesis of various deoxygenated analogues from a wide range of N‐heterocyclic N‐oxide cores at room temperature in short reaction times with quantitative yields.
Leveraging data to support health equity in an integrated delivery and finance system
Authors: Kogan Jane , Eichner Joan , Simhan Hyagriv , Dalton Erin , Jutca Alex , Quinn Beth , Chaney Jennifer , Patterson Anna , Keyser Donna
Published: April 2024

Introduction

To accelerate healthcare transformation and advance health equity, scientists in learning health systems (LHSs) require ready access to integrated, comprehensive data that includes information on social determinants of health (SDOH).

Methods

We describe how an integrated delivery and finance system leveraged its learning ecosystem to advance health equity through (a) a cross‐sector initiative to integrate healthcare and human services data for better meeting clients' holistic needs and (b) a system‐level initiative to collect and use patient‐reported SDOH data for connecting patients to needed resources.

Results

Through these initiatives, we strengthened our health system's capacity to meet diverse patient needs, address health disparities, and improve health outcomes. By sharing and integrating healthcare and human services data, we identified 281 000 Shared Services Clients and enhanced care management for 100 adult Medicaid/Special Needs Plan members. Over a 1‐year period, we screened 9173 (37%) patients across UPMC's Women's Health Services Line and connected over 700 individuals to social services and supports.

Conclusions

Opportunities exist for LHSs to improve, expand, and sustain their innovative data practices. As learnings continue to emerge, LHSs will be well positioned to accelerate healthcare transformation and advance health equity.
Effect of Quercetin With Oral Hypoglycemics in Streptozotocin‐Induced Diabetes, and Its Effect on Ulcerogenic Activity
Authors: Mayasa Vinyas , S. Bhavani , Nelson Vinod Kumar , Gundawar Ravi , Deepika P. Phani , Sivaiah Kummara , Patil Archana S.
Published: April 2024

A diabetic‐induced ulcer is a complication of diabetes in which the formation of an ulcer increases and also causes a delay in ulcer healing. Diabetes adds a bonus to various factors like starvation and stress, imbalanced acid‐pepsin secretions, impaired mucosal resistance, acid‐back diffusion, and neuronal dysfunction. Feeding a high‐fat diet for 15 days after induction of STZ in rats develops diabetes mellitus simultaneously with growth, resulting in an acceleration of ulcers for any of the above reasons. The OGTT investigation included both normal and diabetic rats, and the researchers establish a consistently low dosage of conventional oral hypoglycemic agents for the treatment. Clinical studies in the literature highlight that effectively treating patients with diabetes complications has been demonstrated through glycemic control. Hence, effective palliative hypoglycemic agents are employed. Long‐term usage has revealed that they exert a drastic negative effect. Hence, herbal drug combinations with these standard drugs have proved to be effective in minimizing the side effects. QE, which has hypoglycemic, dyslipidemia, and antioxidant properties, has been effective when administered with Glipizide (5 mg kg−1). The monotherapy of this Glipizide and QE has not shown a beneficial effect in protecting the stomach from ulcers. The combination (G + QE) showed effective control of glucose without any hypoglycemia. QE as a single adjunct with Glipizide has proven promising in preventing and treating diabetic ulcers.
An Overview of Pharmacological Activities and Beneficial Effects of 3‐Hydroxyflavone
Authors: Ayyanna Chakali , Kuppusamy Sujatha , Kumar Pasala Praveen
Published: April 2024

Flavonoids are a diverse group of naturally occurring plant compounds that are primarily composed of phenols in their free form or glycosides. Flavonoid medicines are primarily composed of 2‐phenyl‐g‐benzopyrone. This family consists of monomeric flavanols, flavanones, anthocyanidins, flavones, isoflavonoids, and flavonols. The study's main objective is to review the newly discovered natural flavones and flavanols, as well as the biological and pharmacological actions of these essential flavonoids. As per the available data, 3‐hydroxy flavone plays a vital role in the prevention of a range of diseases. Research studies have confirmed that 3‐hydroxyflavone has a broad range of pharmacological properties like therapeutic effects against pain, inflammation, oxidative stress; hepatotoxicity, hypertension, ulcerogenesis, allergy, platelet dysfunction, microbes, fungi, viruses, rhinovirus, malaria, and carcinogens. 3‐Hydroxy flavone has limited utility because of their poor solubility and bioavailability. This has led to the search for new drug delivery methods, such as nanoparticles. To get over these problems, it would be preferable to administer 3‐hydroxyflavone via the biocompatible nanoparticles. It is expected that nanoparticles will improve the solubility of 3‐hydroxyflavone, enhance its therapeutic properties and facilitate its transport to the brain.
Methylene Blue Removal on Biodegradable Adsorptive Membranes Fabricated From Sugarcane Bagasse Pulp: Characterization and Performance Study
Authors: Elshabrawy Salma O. M. , Elhussieny Amal , Taha Mahmoud M. , Konsowa Abdelaziz H. , Fahim Irene S.
Published: April 2024

Dye‐containing waste should be carefully treated using environmentally friendly technology to prevent environmental harm and preserve water resources. Adsorptive membranes are a promising new approach for decreasing, recovering, and reusing waste while also removing contaminants like dyes. In this work, two different techniques are employed to create membranes using sugarcane bagasse pulp and carbon from charcoal. In the first technique, the surface of sugarcane bagasse is coated with charcoal paste as shown in Figure 1, while in the second, the carbon is combined with sugarcane bagasse pulp particles before being formed into sheets. It is discovered that the manufactured membranes has micron‐sized pores. It is discovered that the mixed‐fabricated membrane has a 99.4% better efficiency than the coated one. The membranes' surfaces are characterized using FTIR and SEM analysis.
Analyze the Impact of Nuclear Energy on Many Aspects of Life Cycles—Review
Authors: Wagadare Shraddha , Gupta Dhirendra Kumar
Published: April 2024

Energy has long been seen as an important factor in meeting needs of people, in order to sustain and support the economic growth and livelihood. To understand the various technological processes in the nuclear power life cycle, it is first necessary to know the types of fuels used today. There are two types of gasoline in use today, “open” and “partially closed,” respectively, referred to as “single cycle” (OTC) and “double cycle” (TTC). A distinction must be made between “partial” closed fuel cycles, as they apply to current critical (thermal neutron spectrum) reactor technology, which is limited to two passes, and “full” closed cycles, which allow for greater circulation of spent oil but must be used. Fast reactors (FR) are included in the reactor fleet. Many recoveries of FR—already proven but not yet widely used in industry—will lead to reduced demand for uranium mining. In this section, references to “closed” fuel cycles include “partially” closed cycles, i.e., TTCs. What type, if any, is the correct content or information in question? Analysis of the world's energy consumption in recent years shows that the world's energy consumption has increased by 50% in less than a decade.
Phytochemical and Antimicrobial Properties of Some Plants against Xanthomonas
Authors: Yadav Neha , Malviya Jitendra , Yadav Sawan
Published: April 2024

Xanthomonas species, including active axonopodis pv. malvacearum (X.a.m.), Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. Taum (X.a.p.), and Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (X. c. v.), are used to make various products and fractions of seven medicinal plants, including Aristolochi thyme and Aristolochia methanol extracts shown substantial antibacterial activity against all harmful microorganisms when tested on seven different plants. The solvent extracts' antibacterial qualities are more prominent when compared to the entire plant's aqueous extract, suggesting that the antibacterial activity's active components are more soluble in organic solvents. Further testing of the methanolic extract of thyme and aristolochia is shown by comparing the inhibitory activity of the extracts with bacteriomycin 2000 and streptomycin. According to a phytochemical investigation of the plant's leaves, phenolic chemicals are what give the plant its antibacterial qualities. According to the findings, thyme and aristolochia are plants that can manage Xanthomonas.
Exploration of Teratogenic Effects of Bambusa vulgaris on Wistar Rats by Evaluating Morphological and Skeletal Parameters
Authors: Acharya Biswajeet , Behera Amulyaratna , Chowdhury Bimalendu , Behera Suchismeeta , Moharana Srikanta , Chakroborty Subhendu
Published: April 2024

Bambusa vulgaris is a commonly consumable plant, which is widely utilized by indigenous peoples as a source of food. Consumption of these plant products in various forms is typically acceptable due to their distinct tastes, and aromatic flavor. However, there is little information on the plant's safety and toxicity profile. Although toxicity information on B. vulgaris is readily available, the impact of plants during pregnancy has yet to be fully explored. To determine the possible mechanism behind teratogenicity, pregnant albino Wistar rats are administered aqueous extracts of B. vulgaris in a dose‐dependent manner. For determining the structural malformations, Teratogenicity indices include maternal common physiological parameters, number of implantations and fetal indices, number of live, resorpsed, and dead somites, morphological malformations, and skeletal malformations of different organs are evaluated by comparing different test groups with control groups. Most developmental indices, including implantation and fetalindices, vertebral, organ, and skeletal structures are significantly altered by the crude extract at higher dosages in treated as compared to control animals. The administration of aqueous extract of B. vulgaris during the organogenesis phase in rats has a considerable deleterious effect on embryonic and fetal developmental indices. It ruthlessly impacts the embryo's numerous organs as well as their typical physiological processes in a dose‐dependent way. The present investigation validates the capacity of B. vulgaris to cause developmental toxicity in Wistar rats, as evidenced by significant alterations in their gestational morphological, structural, and skeletal anatomy and physiology. It is recommended that further scientific studies be conducted to evaluate the more advanced mechanisms of teratogenicity associated with B. vulgaris.
Stability of Mosaic Divergent Repeat Interruptions in X‐Linked Dystonia‐Parkinsonism
Authors: Laß Joshua , Lüth Theresa , Schlüter Kathleen , Schaake Susen , Laabs Björn‐Hergen , Much Christoph , Jamora Roland Dominic , Rosales Raymond L. , Saranza Gerard , Diesta Cid Czarina E. , Pearson Christopher E. , König Inke R. , Brüggemann Norbert , Klein Christine , Westenberger Ana , Trinh Joanne
Published: April 2024

Background

X‐Linked dystonia‐parkinsonism (XDP) is an adult‐onset neurodegenerative disorder characterized by rapidly progressive dystonia and parkinsonism. Mosaic Divergent Repeat Interruptions affecting motif Length and Sequence (mDRILS) were recently found within the TAF1 SVA repeat tract and were shown to associate with repeat stability and age at onset in XDP, specifically the AGGG [5′‐SINE‐VNTR‐Alu(AGAGGG)2AGGG(AGAGGG)n] mDRILS.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the stability of mDRILS frequencies and stability of (AGAGGG)n repeat length during transmission in parent–offspring pairs.

Methods

Fifty‐six families (n = 130) were investigated for generational transmission of repeat length and mDRILS. The mDRILS stability of 16 individuals was assessed at two sampling points 1 year apart. DNA was sequenced with long‐read technologies after long‐range polymerase chain reaction amplification of the TAF1 SVA. Repeat number and mDRILS were detected with Noise‐Cancelling Repeat Finder (NCRF).

Results

When comparing the repeat domain, 51 of 65 children had either contractions or expansions of the repeat length. The AGGG frequency remained stable across generations at 0.074 (IQR: 0.069–0.078) (z = −0.526; P = 0.599). However, the median AGGG frequency in children with an expansion (0.072 [IQR: 0.066–0.076]) was lower compared with children with retention or contraction (0.080 [IQR: 0.073–0.083]) (z = −0.007; P = 0.003). In a logistic regression model, the AGGG frequency predicted the outcome of either expansion or retention/contraction when including repeat number and sex as covariates (β = 80.7; z‐score = 2.63; P = 0.0085). The AGGG frequency varied slightly over 1 year (0.070 [IQR: 0.063–0.080] to 0.073 [IQR: 0.069–0.078]).

Conclusions

Our results show that a higher AGGG frequency may stabilize repeats across generations. This highlights the importance of further investigating mDRILS as a disease‐modifying factor with generational differences. © 2024 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.