bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adoption of Aflatoxin Smart Technologies among Smallholder Maize Farmers in Kongwa & Namtumbo Districts
Authors: Marijani Issaya G. , Alphonce Roselyne , Mutabazi Khamaldin D.
Published: January 2025

Aims: The study was designed to evaluate adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies among maize farmers.
Study Design: Cross sectional research design was used involving 344 respondents (300 maize farmers and 44 key informants).
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Kongwa district in Dodoma region and Namtumbo district in Ruvuma region of Tanzania.
Methodology: A survey questionnaire with open and closed ended questions was used to collect both quantitative from farmers while Key informant interview was conducted with traders, agricultural extension officers and input suppliers. The study used both descriptive and inferential statistics to analyse collected data, whereby mean, standard deviations, minimum and maximum were used to describe maize farmers in relation to adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies. Multinomial regression model was used to determine factors influencing adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies.
Results: Majority of maize farmers had low awareness level on aflatoxin. Low awareness level hindered the use of aflatoxin smart technologies. Moreover, results of multinomial logistic regression showed that farmer’s experience on maize cultivations, household size, awareness on aflatoxin, and location of maize farmer, gender and access to credits were significant factors affecting the adoption of aflatoxin smart technologies and its intensities at P = .05.
Conclusion: It was concluded that with regard to how serious the problem of aflatoxin is, there is a need of high efforts of raising awareness to maize farmers to neutralize the spread of contaminations caused by careless farm practices. With the help of study’s findings, it was recommended that there is a need to wide spread information on aflatoxin aiming to raise awareness of the maize farmers and increase physical access of aflatoxin smart technologies.
Examining Teaching Motivation and Classroom Practices of Public Secondary School Teachers in Ulanga Tanzania: A Self-Determination Analysis
Authors: Mpare Faruku Maulid , Zhichao Wang , Marjan Mwanakhamis
Published: January 2025

Based on self-determination theory, this study explored how much secondary school teachers in public schools were motivated to work in their careers and how their motivation related to classroom practices. The study adopted a quantitative study design. A study recruited 70 secondary school teachers (male=36 and female=34) from different public schools who were randomly selected and involved. The questionnaire was administered to 70 teachers, and all the papers were returned positively. Teachers’ motivation was measured using the modified Work Tasks Motivation Scale for Teachers (WTMST) (Fernet C. et al., 2008). The Teachers’ classroom practices were measured using an adapted vignette-based instrument, the Situations-in-School (SIS) Questionnaire (Alterman A. et al., 2019). 
The score for autonomy motivation was computed by averaging the subscale of intrinsic and identified motivation, and the score for controlling motivation was calculated by averaging the subscale of introjected and external motivation. The result indicates that, to a large extent, secondary school teachers are autonomously motivated to work in their careers. It also found that teachers’ autonomy motivation allied significantly with structure (need-supportive) and control (need-depriving) classroom practices. Controlling motivation and motivation are significantly related to control and chaos (need-depriving) classroom practices.
The study findings are crucial to educational stakeholders in addressing teachers' challenges to boost their motivation, which positively relates to their classroom teaching and, in turn, can affect students' performance. Conclusively, any change in the educational structure that promotes teacher motivation should result in improved levels of classroom teaching.
Educational Practices and Academic Performance of Grade VI Pupils in San Roque and Pambujan Districts Northern Samar
Authors: Lagrimas Noel M.
Published: January 2025

This study was conducted to assess the educational practices of rural schools in San Roque and Pambujan Districts in terms of teaching practices, learning practices, co-curricular activities, administrative activities, and community involvement; determine the level of academic performance of pupils; find out the significant relationship of educational practices on the academic performance of pupils; and determine if there is a significant difference between the teachers and pupils’ assessment on educational practices.
It was conducted in San Roque District which included the rural schools of Balud, Balnasan, Coroconog, Dale, Bantayan, Lawaan, Malobago, Pagsang-an, and Ginagdanan. Three (3) rural
schools in Pambujan District were included namely Cababto-an Elementary School, Camparanga Elementary School, and Paninirongan Elementary School.
The descriptive-correlational method of research was employed in this study using random sampling technique to choose the 71 teachers and 153 Grade VI pupils as respondents. A survey questionnaire was used as instrument. Frequency counts, percentages, mean, weighted mean and t-test were used in the statistical treatment of data.
One finding of the study revealed that teaching practices was satisfactory, this indicates that the teachers were observed to have various types of teaching methodologies to deliver the learning to the pupils and present again the lesson on the least learned concepts but in different view. Learning practices as assessed by teachers and pupils was rated as fairly satisfactory which indicates the need for teachers to keep tract of unlearned skills of the pupils. Co-curricular activities were rated as fairly satisfactory this means that co-curricular activities must be observed by schools those that encouraged participation among pupils. On the other hand, administrative activities and community involvement were rated fairly satisfactory. This means that there are more to be done by the school administrators in terms of the administrative tasks which will to promote and cater to the needs and welfare of the teachers and pupils and other stakeholders in the community. This reveals that educational practices in San Roque and Pambujan Districts were satisfactory in terms of teaching practices while learning practices, co-curricular activities, administrative activities and community involvement were rated fairly satisfactory. Most of the Grade VI pupils had a fairly satisfactory academic performance. Out of the five (5) indicators of educational practices, co-curricular activities was related to the academic performance of the pupils while teaching practices, learning practices, administrative activities and community involvement were not related to academic performance. There was a significant difference in the assessment of educational practices among teachers and students in terms of teaching practices, learning practices, co-curricular activities, administrative activities and community involvement.
Analyzing Nigeria Monthly Consumer Price Index Using the ARIMA Model
Authors: C.A. Awogbemi , A.S. Johnson , J. Daniel , A.K. Ilori, , H. Alilu , M.S. Omotayo-Tomo , B.I. Okafor , B.P. Huleji , I. Muhammed , V.B. Paul , A.O. Adejumo
Published: January 2025

Consumer Price Index (CPI) serves as economic vital indicator that helps decision makers to apply the right approach to investment areas in the midst of limited resources. CPI measures the changes in the broad spectrum level of prices pof consumer goods and services that households employ for utilization. This paper seeks to investigate the fluctuations of Nigeria Consumer Price Index from 2009-2024 using an Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model to predict future values of Nigeria CPI based on past values. The data was analyzed to make well informed economic decisions as it indicates the change in consumers’ purchasing power. The forecast based on the ARIMA (3,2,2) model shows a continuous upward trend in CPI, with the point forecasts suggesting rising inflation rates throughout 2024 and 2025. The Seasoned Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average, SARIMA (3,2,2) (2,0,0)12 model was identified as the best fitted model for the CPI. The study therefore concluded that the model has been shown to adequately explain the variation in the monthly CPI.
Morphological Variability of 23 Kola Genotypes [Cola nitida (Vent.) Schott & Endl.] from Côte d'Ivoire and Nigeria
Authors: Yaya Ouattara , Jean-Marc Séry Drolet , Yao Saraka Didier Martial , Alphonse Bouet , Sylvère Sié Raoul
Published: January 2025

Twenty-three (23) kola genotypes from Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria were assessed for their morphological traits. The objective of this study was to identify potentially promising genotypes for kola productivity improvement. This study highlighted the significant variations in phenotypic traits between the two origins, except for nuts length. Genotypes from Côte d’Ivoire produced large follicles with more nuts. Those from Nigeria have large leaves, thick cortex, and large but few nuts. Correlation analyses revealed complex relationships among these characteristics, potentially influencing yield. Furthermore, the classification of genotypes into clusters  highlighted notable differences in terms of fruit weight and nut size. Cluster 2 (CIV-313, CIV-322, NIG-330, NIG-341, and NIG-352) stands out as the most interesting, showing the highest values for these traits. These findings could be valuable in productivity and quality improvement programs for kola nuts, by incorporating specific characteristics of each genotype to meet agronomic goals.
Differentiating Biological Roles of Some Organic Amendments on Some Parameters for Sandy and Clay Soils Cultivated with Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) and Final Yield
Authors: Ramdan Amel I. , El-Aziz Mohamed A. Abd , Mussa EL- Shaymaa E.
Published: January 2025

Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was planted in pot tests during 2020–2021 and 2021–2022 years in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) including nine treatments using soils sampled collected from Ismailia and Giza for cultivation. Treatments included usage of potassium humate (KH), vinasse (Vin), and olive mill waste (OMW) as replacements for the recommended mineral fertilizers. Effects of these alternatives on chemical, biological and physical characteristics for both lettuce and soil were studied at harvest. The combination of mineral fertilizer (NPK) with either OMW, Vin or KH in equal quantities (50%) produced the highest yields. As for Giza soil, compared with 100% NPK, the yield increased by 1.7, 1.6 and 1.6 folds using 50% NPK combined with either 50% OMW, Vin or KH, respectively. On the other hand, Ismailia soil either 50% Vin or 50% OMW with 50% NPK achieved yield of 1.8 and 1.65 folds that of 100 % NPK. Addition of 50% OMW or Vin recorded the best mean values of all tested, all parameters and improved plants growth and increased the total yield of curds besides enhancing yield and its components compared to the other treatments or the control and at the same time saved and reduced mineral fertilizer recommendation of Lettuce.
The Role of Chemistry in Achieving Sustainable Development Goals: Green Chemistry Perspective
Authors: Ogodo Uchenna P. , Abosede Olufunso O.
Published: January 2025

Green chemistry, also referred to as sustainable chemistry, has emerged as a crucial framework for addressing global sustainability challenges and advancing the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (UN-SDGs). By focusing on designing chemical products and processes that minimize hazardous substances, green chemistry reduces environmental pollution, conserves resources, and improves public health. It promotes safer, more efficient chemical processes aligned with sustainability principles. The twelve principles of green chemistry offer actionable strategies for achieving key SDGs. For example, green chemistry ensures clean water and sanitation (SDG 6) by minimizing toxic chemical releases into water systems and addresses climate action (SDG 13) through low-carbon technologies and sustainable energy sources. It supports responsible production and consumption (SDG 12) by advancing circular economy practices and  fostering sustainable industrial processes. In Africa, green chemistry is drawing attention, demonstrating significant contributions to sustainable development. Conferences in Africa have fostered collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and industry leaders while African countries continue to adopt green technologies, including cleaner production techniques and renewable feedstocks in chemical manufacturing. Research laboratories across the continent are implementing techniques like solvent-free synthesis and bio-based catalysts, reducing environmental impacts and enhancing resource efficiency. This article highlights how green chemistry principles drive progress toward the UN-SDGs in Africa. By integrating these principles, green chemistry can help create a sustainable global economy, advancing environmental stewardship, social well-being, and economic growth.
Evaluation of Anticancer, Thrombolytic and Antimicrobial Activities of Heliotropium indicum (Indian turnsole)
Authors: Anjum Kazi Fabliha , Farabe Al , Asif Abu Jubaer , Kubra Khadizatul , Anika Khandaker Antara
Published: January 2025

This research objective was to investigate some in vitro properties of methanol-extracted plant extracts of Heliotropium indicum (Indian turnsole). The primary method of assessment for the methanolic extract of Heliotropium indicum (MEHI) was investigated for phytochemical screening. It was determined to look into the plant's potential for in vitro activities, such as anticancer, thrombolytic and antimicrobial activity due to the pharmaceutical interest in its component parts. Phytochemical screening was performed utilizing a battery of test reagents. Anticancer, thrombolytic and antimicrobial activities were measured at various doses using the Cell Viability Assay, Clot Lysis Assay, the Disk Diffusion Method. The findings of research on MEHI's phytochemical screening showed the presence of a wide range of various phytochemical components. Mild anticancer activity was found in MEHI and at the dose of 1000µg/mL the zone of inhibition was 29.45%, while antibacterial action ranged from 6 mm to 18 mm zones of inhibition. Comparatively, this herb has quite powerful thrombolytic action. Significant antibacterial activity has also been shown by MEHI. To wrap it up, it is clear that this plants phytochemical can be used for wide range of drug discovery field due to its potent pharmacological actions.
Reclaiming the Narrative: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Donald Trump's 2024 Super Tuesday Campaign Speech
Authors: Atmawijaya Tito Dimas
Published: January 2025

This study critically analyzes Donald Trump's 2024 campaign speech using Fairclough's Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) framework to explore how his rhetorical strategies construct power relations and reinforce ideological divisions. By examining key rhetorical devices such as pronouns, metaphors, hyperbole, and Repetition, the study reveals how Trump's language fosters a collective identity among his supporters, positioning them as defenders of "true" American values. The analysis also demonstrates how Trump employs a problem-solution structure to portray himself as the sole solution to issues like immigration, economic instability, and national security. The study further contextualizes Trump's rhetoric within broader discursive practices, showing how the speech resonates with populist themes of institutional distrust and nationalism. By drawing on socio-cultural trends such as the rise of populism and media fragmentation, Trump effectively mobilizes his base while deepening ideological divides. The "us versus them" narrative, a hallmark of populist discourse, is examined in light of Fairclough's and van Dijk's theories, highlighting the role of language in shaping social realities and power dynamics. Through this analysis, the research aims to shed light on the broader implications of political discourse in maintaining and challenging power structures within a divided society.
Improving 1,2-Ethylene Dichloride Yield and Purity with Reducing Carbon Emissions from Ethylene through Waste Treatment Method Modification
Authors: Saputra M. Syauqi Finardhy , Azhar Rheka Fauzan , Ramadhani Try , Dodi Vares
Published: January 2025

1,2-ethylenedichloride (EDC) is a chemical compound used widely in industry. This study aims to develop a modified process for EDC production through direct chlorination and oxychlorination methods to improve mass efficiency, establish an environmentally friendly plant, and produce high purity products. Conceptual process simulation was conducted using Aspen HYSYS, with energy consumption and carbon emission analysis using Aspen Energy Analyzer. Process modifications included a new separation system incorporating a flash drum separator, liquid-liquid extraction, and reboiled absorber to achieve more high yield from 71796.84 kg/h to 71859.39 kg/h and purity from 94% to 99.05% and. The results showed improved efficiency purity and yield with reduced carbon emissions from 67680 kg/h to 14170 kg/h, with the potential for industrial sustainability through feedstock optimization and reduced environmental impact. Copyright © 2025 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Adaptive event‐triggered pinning synchronization control for complex networks with random saturation subject to hybrid cyber‐attacks
Authors: Ali M. Syed , Tajudeen M. Mubeen , Rajchakit Grienggrai , Priya Bandana , Thakur Ganesh Kumar
Published: May 2023

This research is concerned with the problem of pinning based output synchronization control for a complex networks with random saturation vulnerable to hybrid cyber‐attacks via an adaptive event‐triggered scheme (AETS). The output synchronization error systems are subject to suffer from deception attacks, replay attacks, and denial‐of‐service attacks. A novel hybrid cyber‐attack model is first constructed to integrate the three kinds of attacks into a synchronization of complex network. AETSs based on output synchronization errors with the consideration of hybrid cyber‐attacks, have been proposed to reduce the burden of communication. A pinning control strategy is used to decrease the control signal's input. By constructing a Lyapunov functional and using the linear matrix inequality technique, sufficient conditions are provided to ensure the output synchronization error system. Finally, a numerical simulation results are developed to illustrate the efficacy of the proposed theoretical methodology.
An Injectable Self‐Crosslinked Wholly Supramolecular Polyzwitterionic Hydrogel for Regulating Microenvironment to Boost Infected Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Pang Yudi , Wang Hongying , Yao Yuan , Chen Danyang , Yang Rong , Wang Zhuoya , Yang Jianhai , Li Yongmao , Liu Wenguang
Published: May 2023

It is highly desirable yet significantly challenging to fabricate injectable, self‐crosslinked, self‐fused, and antifouling polyzwitterionic hydrogels, whose successful preparation will expand their application scope in biomedical fields. Herein, for the first time, a novel zwitterionic monomer, carboxybetaine urethane acrylate (CBUTA) is designed and synthesized with a urethane group and zwitterion on the same side chain. The strong inter‐urethane H‐bonds and zwitterionic dipole–dipole interactions of side chains contribute to self‐crosslinked wholly supramolecular polyzwitterionic hydrogel that is directly formed from photoinitiated polymerization of CBUTA aqueous solution without adding any chemical crosslinkers. After being swollen in water, the polyCBUTA (PCBUTA) hydrogel is squeezed into small particles and freeze‐dried to obtain hydrogel powder. The injectable and wholly zwitterionic supramolecular PCBUTA hydrogel can be easily reconstructed by mixing hydrogel powder with water due to the recombination of H‐bonds of urethane groups and zwitterionic dipole–dipole interactions. The re‐formed PCBUTA hydrogel exhibits an excellent self‐fused and antifouling ability, and this injectable PCBUTA hydrogel, endowed with a microenvironment‐regulated function, demonstrates excellent glucose consumption, antioxidation, antibacterial, and angiogenesis ability, thus accelerating the infected diabetic wound healing. Overall, this work provides a promising strategy to develop injectable and wholly zwitterionic hydrogels that will find broad biomedical applications.
Soft Wearable Thermal Devices Integrated with Machine Learning
Authors: Zavareh Amir , Tran Brittany , Orred Christian , Rhodes Savannah , Rahman Md Saifur , Namkoong Myeong , Lee Ricky , Carlisle Cody , Rosas Miguel , Pavlov Anton , Chen Ian , Schilling Greg , Smith Marc , Masood Fahad , Hanks John , Tian Limei
Published: May 2023

Core body temperature (CBT) is a vital parameter that provides insight into individuals' overall health. However, existing methods to monitor CBT are mainly invasive and limited to applications in operating rooms. This work reports a soft wearable thermal device with low power operation to accurately monitor the core temperature and overcome these limitations. The thermal device comprises multiple temperature sensors separated with insulating materials of different thermal conductivities. The design provides a well‐defined thermal gradient to characterize the heat flux across the device. Thermal simulation of the devices with finite element analysis provides guidelines on the device design. Experimental studies involving tissue phantom and human subjects characterize and validate the device performance. A machine learning approach can account for heterogeneous, hard‐to‐measure parameters among individuals such as tissue thermal conductivity and heat generation rate. The machine learning algorithms can be trained to accurately quantify the core temperature in human subjects using the zero‐heat‐flux device measured temperature as a reference. The results show that the mean core temperature difference between the zero‐heat‐flux and the devices is 0.01 °C with 95% limits of agreement in the range of −0.08 °C and 0.1 °C.
Implement the Materials Genome Initiative: Machine Learning Assisted Fluorescent Probe Design for Cellular Substructure Staining
Authors: Yang Yike , Ji Yumei , Han Xu , Long Yunxin , Stewart Callum , Wen Yiqiang , Lee Hok Yeung , Cao Tian , Han Jinsong , Chen Sijie , Li Linxian
Published: May 2023

The Materials Genome Initiative (MGI) is accelerating the pace of advanced materials development by integrating high‐throughput experimentation, database construction, and intelligence computation. Live‐cell imaging agents, such as fluorescent dyes, are exemplary candidates for MGI applications for two reasons: i) they are essential in visualizing cellular structures and functional processes, and ii) the unclear relationship between the chemical structure of fluorescent dyes and their live‐cell imaging properties severely restricts the current trial‐and‐error dye development. Herein, the MGI is followed to present an intelligent combinatorial methodology for predicting the staining cell ability of dyes utilizing machine learning (ML) driven by a structurally diverse combinatorial library. This study demonstrates how to high‐throughput synthesize 1,536 dyes and evaluate their imaging properties to establish a feature dataset for ML. A set of high‐precision ML‐predictors is then successfully modeled for assisting live‐cell staining and endoplasmic reticulum judgment. This approach is believed to bridge the gap between dye structure and corresponding staining behavior, and can accelerate the discovery of novel organelle‐specific stains.
Flagellum‐Inspired Soft Rotary Motor
Authors: Jiao Zhongdong , Zhu Pingan , Hu Zhenhan , Shi Yuhao , Tang Wei , Yang Huayong , Zou Jun
Published: May 2023

Soft robots have gained significant attention in recent years owing to their high safety in human–machine interactions and exceptional adaptability to unpredictable environments. Despite great advances, achieving continuous rotation with tunable stepping angle in soft robots remains a challenge. Herein, inspired by the stepping rotation strategy of the flagellum, an artificial soft rotary motor capable of bidirectional continuous rotation and tunable stepping angles is presented. The motor features a wide range of stepping angles (−72.5° to 73.4°), enabling it to rotate to any angle position with high resolution. The soft motor also exhibits high rotation speed (18.23 r min−1), zero‐energy position‐holding, and excellent durability. Furthermore, the potential applications of the soft rotary motors, including tuning the grasping direction of a soft gripper and adjusting the winding direction of a soft tentacle is demonstrated. This work offers a universal soft fluidic component for soft robots, endowing them with enhanced agility and movement capabilities.
Highly Efficient Photoninitiators Based on 4H‐Pyranylidene Derivatives for Two‐Photon Laser Printing
Authors: Royo Raquel , Mainik Philipp , Benitez‐Martin Carlos , Andreu Raquel , Blasco Eva , Najera Francisco , Villacampa Belén
Published: May 2023

A series of four donor–acceptor–donor derivatives bearing 4H‐pyranylidene and 4‐methylcyclohexan‐1‐one units as donor and acceptor groups respectively is designed, synthesized, and photophysically characterized. Both experimental and theoretical studies reveal good two‐photon absorption (2PA) properties for these systems. Decoration of the exocyclic position of the 4H‐pyranylidene moiety with a thiophene ring results in high 2PA cross‐section values (σ2PA) ≈700 nm, and remarkably, in the region between 900 and 1000 nm. Furthermore, all chromophores are evaluated as photoinitiators (PIs) for two‐photon‐laser printing at 780 nm, showing superior performance compared to the commonly used commercially available PI, phenylbis(2,4,6‐trimethylbenzoyl)phosphine oxide. Among the studied PIs, the ones equipped with a thiophene unit at the exocyclic position of the 4H‐pyranylidene moiety exhibit the highest efficiency, enabling fast printing using low laser powers with even lower concentrations of PI. Overall, this study shows the great potential of this new class of PIs for application in the field of 3D nanoprinting.
Aerogel‐Based Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications: From Fabrication Methods to Disease‐Targeting Applications
Authors: Karamikamkar Solmaz , Yalcintas Ezgi Pinar , Haghniaz Reihaneh , de Barros Natan Roberto , Mecwan Marvin , Nasiri Rohollah , Davoodi Elham , Nasrollahi Fatemeh , Erdem Ahmet , Kang Heemin , Lee Junmin , Zhu Yangzhi , Ahadian Samad , Jucaud Vadim , Maleki Hajar , Dokmeci Mehmet Remzi , Kim Han‐Jun , Khademhosseini Ali
Published: May 2023

Aerogel‐based biomaterials are increasingly being considered for biomedical applications due to their unique properties such as high porosity, hierarchical porous network, and large specific pore surface area. Depending on the pore size of the aerogel, biological effects such as cell adhesion, fluid absorption, oxygen permeability, and metabolite exchange can be altered. Based on the diverse potential of aerogels in biomedical applications, this paper provides a comprehensive review of fabrication processes including sol‐gel, aging, drying, and self‐assembly along with the materials that can be used to form aerogels. In addition to the technology utilizing aerogel itself, it also provides insight into the applicability of aerogel based on additive manufacturing technology. To this end, how microfluidic‐based technologies and 3D printing can be combined with aerogel‐based materials for biomedical applications is discussed. Furthermore, previously reported examples of aerogels for regenerative medicine and biomedical applications are thoroughly reviewed. A wide range of applications with aerogels including wound healing, drug delivery, tissue engineering, and diagnostics are demonstrated. Finally, the prospects for aerogel‐based biomedical applications are presented. The understanding of the fabrication, modification, and applicability of aerogels through this study is expected to shed light on the biomedical utilization of aerogels.
Enhanced Anti‐Wetting Methods of Hydrophobic Membrane for Membrane Distillation
Authors: Zhang Honglong , Zhao Xuan
Published: May 2023

Increasing issues of hydrophobic membrane wetting occur in the membrane distillation (MD) process, stimulating the research on enhanced anti‐wetting methods for membrane materials. In recent years, surface structural construction (i.e., constructing reentrant‐like structures), surface chemical modification (i.e., coating organofluorides), and their combination have significantly improved the anti‐wetting properties of the hydrophobic membranes. Besides, these methods change the MD performance (i.e., increased/decreased vapor flux and increased salt rejection). This review first introduces the characterization parameters of wettability and the fundamental principles of membrane surface wetting. Then it summarizes the enhanced anti‐wetting methods, the related principles, and most importantly, the anti‐wetting properties of the resultant membranes. Next, the MD performance of hydrophobic membranes prepared by different enhanced anti‐wetting methods is discussed in desalinating different feeds. Finally, facile and reproducible strategies are aspired for the robust MD membrane in the future.
Contract farming led by a seed enterprise and incentives to produce high quality: Which contract design performs best?
Authors: Xie Zuomiao , Yuan Shiqi , Zhu Jinjing , Li Weiming
Published: May 2023

Motivated by real‐world practices in China, we consider a three‐level agri‐food supply chain consisting of a seed enterprise, a grower, and a buyer–processor, where the seed enterprise is fully vertically integrated in the seed industry and acts as the leader to coordinate the grower and buyer–processor of the agri‐food supply chain. We call this seed company‐led agri‐food contract farming. First, we develop analytical models to derive optimal solutions under penalty contracts, revenue‐sharing contracts and cost‐sharing contracts. Then, we analytically compare the optimal strategies of the three contracts using data from China's fresh maize industry as the numerical example. Finally, we do the sensitivity analysis of contract parameters. Results demonstrate that: (1) The seed company‐led agri‐food contract farming obtains quality advantages and improves profits by responding quickly to external demand changes and effectively coordinating internal technical capabilities. (2) The penalty contract performs poorly in both quality and profit. (3) The profit of the whole supply chain increases with the increase of the revenue‐sharing proportion from downstream supply chain participants to upstream participants; but the relationship between the proportion of cost‐sharing and the profit of the whole supply chain is nonmonotonic. [EconLit Citations: C79, O13, Q13].
Translating blood biomarkers into clinical practice for Alzheimer's disease: Challenges and perspectives
Authors: Wang Jun , Chen Ming , Masters Colin L. , Wang Yan‐Jiang
Published: May 2023

Early and accurate diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in clinical practice is urgent with advances in AD treatment. Blood biomarker assays are preferential diagnostic tools for widespread clinical use with the advantages of being less invasive, cost effective, and easily accessible, and they have shown good performance in research cohorts. However, in community‐based populations with maximum heterogeneity, great challenges are still faced in diagnosing AD based on blood biomarkers in terms of accuracy and robustness. Here, we analyze these challenges, including the confounding impact of systemic and biological factors, small changes in blood biomarkers, and difficulty in detecting early changes. Furthermore, we provide perspectives on several potential strategies to overcome these challenges for blood biomarkers to bridge the gap from research to clinical practice.
Dimerisierung eines reaktiven Azaacen Diradikals: Synthese eines kovalenten Azaacen‐Käfigs
Authors: Fuchs Kathleen , Medina Rivero Samara , Weidlich Anna , Rominger Frank , Israel Noel , Popov Alexey A. , Dreuw Andreas , Freudenberg Jan , Casado Juan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: May 2023

Zwei Serien regioisomerer dicyanomethylen‐substituierter Dithienodiazatetracenen mit formalen para‐ oder ortho‐Chinodimethan‐Untereinheiten wurden synthetisiert und charakterisiert. Während die para‐Isomere (p‐n, Diradikalindex y0=0.01) stabil und isolierbar waren, dimerisierte das ortho‐Isomer (y0=0.98) zu einem kovalenten Azaacen‐Käfig. Es wurden vier lange σ‐CC‐Bindungen gebildet und dabei die ehemaligen Triisopropyl‐silyl(TIPS)‐Ethinyl‐Gruppen in Kumulen‐Einheiten umgewandelt. Der Azaacen‐Käfig (o‐1)2 wurde durch Einkristallröntgenstrukturanalyse charakterisiert. Weitere temperaturabhängige Experimente wie Infrarot‐ (IR), Elektronenspinresonanz‐ (ESR, Festkörper), Kernspinresonanz‐ (engl. nuclear magnetic resonance, NMR) und Absorptions‐ (engl. ultraviolet‐visible, UV/Vis) Spektroskopie (Lösung) wurden durchgeführt, welche auf die Rückbildung des intermediären Diradikals o‐1 hinweisen.
Understanding the Energy Potential of Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Definition and Estimation of the State of Energy
Authors: Quade Katharina Lilith , Jöst Dominik , Sauer Dirk Uwe , Li Weihan
Published: May 2023

An accurate estimation of the residual energy, i. e., State of Energy (SoE), for lithium‐ion batteries is crucial for battery diagnostics since it relates to the remaining driving range of battery electric vehicles. Unlike the State of Charge, which solely reflects the charge, the SoE can feasibly estimate residual energy. The existing literature predominantly focuses on showcasing diverse methods with a gap in conducting in‐depth analysis and comparison of the SoE. The scope of this work is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the SoE by discussing the feasibility and applicability of various definitions and estimation approaches from the literature. For the first time, we classify existing SoE definitions, considering the differences between the inherent stored and usable energy. In the absence of a unified definition in the literature, we propose two physically feasible definitions. Based on the proposed definitions, we critically analyze the practical challenges of SoE estimation. Additionally, to examine the accuracy of the most suitable SoE definition, we conduct an experimental evaluation using a commercial NCA/C+Si cell. Compared to the State of stored Energy, we demonstrate that the State of Charge underestimates the residual energy by more than 3 %, highlighting the importance of adequate SoE estimation.
Unsaturated free fatty acid emulsion infusion into carotid artery enhances drug delivery to the rat brain
Authors: Kim Yong‐Woo , Choi Seon Hee , Choi Ki Joo , Kim Hak Jin , Kang Jin Sook , Hong Dong Jin
Published: May 2023

Aims

: To determine whether the blood–brain barrier (BBB) opens to enhance drug delivery during the acute stage of unsaturated fat embolism.

Methods

: We infused oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid emulsions through the right common carotid artery of rats, followed by trypan blue for gross and lanthanum for electron microscopic (EM) examination. Doxorubicin and temozolomide were also administered, and then the rats were euthanized at 30 min, 1 h, and 2 h. Trypan blue hue was analyzed to semiquantitatively measure BBB opening. Desorption electrospray ionization–mass spectrometry (DESI–MS) imaging was used to evaluate drug delivery.

Results

Trypan blue staining observed in each group 30 min after emulsion infusion increased at 1 h and decreased after 2 h in the oleic acid group. The linoleic and linolenic acid groups showed weak staining over time. The hue and trypan blue analysis results were corroborative. EM showed tight junction opening, whereas DESI–MS imaging showed increased doxorubicin and temozolomide signal intensities in ipsilateral hemispheres of all three groups.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid emulsions opened the BBB, promoting drug delivery to the brain. Hue analysis and DESI–MS imaging are appropriate for analysis of doxorubicin and temozolomide concentrations in brain tissue.
Overexpression of cannabinoid receptor 2 is associated with human breast cancer proliferation, apoptosis, chemosensitivity and prognosis via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Song Qiang , Zhang Wenjin , Shi Dan , Zhang Zhiliang , Zhao Qiurong , Wang Mengyuan , Huang Man , Meng Juanjuan , Cui Wei , Luo Xiaohe
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) is mainly involved in the immune system. However, although CB2 has been reported to play an anti‐tumor function in breast cancer (BC), its specific mechanism in BC remains unclear.

Methods

We examined the expression and prognostic significance of CB2 in BC tissues by qPCR, second‐generation sequencing, western blot, and immunohistochemistry. We assessed the impacts of overexpression and a specific agonist of CB2 on the growth, proliferation, apoptosis, and drug resistance of BC cells in vitro and in vivo using CCK‐8, flow cytometry, TUNEL staining, immunofluorescence, tumor xenografts, western blot, and colony formation assays.

Results

CB2 expression was significantly lower in BC compared with paracancerous tissues. It was also highly expressed in benign tumors and ductal carcinoma in situ, and its expression was correlated with prognosis in BC patients. CB2 overexpression and treatment of BC cells with a CB2 agonist inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis, and these actions were achieved by suppressing the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. Moreover, CB2 expression was increased in MDA‐MB‐231 cell treated with cisplatin, doxorubicin, and docetaxel, and sensitivity to these anti‐tumor drugs was increased in BC cells overexpressing CB2.

Conclusions

These findings reveal that CB2 mediates BC via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway. CB2 could be a novel target for the diagnosis and treatment of BC.
“It's just not easy to understand”: A mixed methods study of health insurance literacy and insurance plan decision‐making in cancer survivors
Authors: Williams Courtney P. , Platter Heather N. , Davidoff Amy J. , Vanderpool Robin C. , Pisu Maria , de Moor Janet S.
Published: May 2023

Background

Understanding cancer survivors' health insurance decision‐making is needed to improve insurance choice, potentially resulting in reduced financial hardship.

Methods

This explanatory mixed methods study assessed health insurance decision‐making in cancer survivors. Health Insurance Literacy Measure (HILM) captured HIL. Quantitative eye‐tracking data collected from two simulated health insurance plan choice sets gauged dwell time (seconds), or interest, in benefits. Dwell time differences by HIL were estimated using adjusted linear models. Qualitative interviews explored survivors' insurance decision‐making choices.

Results

Cancer survivors (N = 80; 38% breast cancer) had a median age of 43 at diagnosis (IQR 34–52). When comparing traditional and high‐deductible health plans, survivors were most interested in drug costs (median dwell time 58 s, IQR 34–109). When comparing health maintenance organization and preferred provider organization plans, survivors were most interested in test/imaging costs (40s, IQR 14–67). Survivors with low versus high HIL had more interest in deductible (β = 19 s, 95% CI 2–38) and hospitalization costs (β = 14 s, 95% CI 1–27) in adjusted models. Survivors with low versus high HIL more often ranked out‐of‐pocket (OOP) maximums and coinsurance as the most important and confusing benefits, respectively. Interviews (n = 20) revealed survivors felt alone “to do their own research” about insurance choices. OOP maximums were cited as the deciding factor since it is “how much money is going to be taken out of my pocket.” Coinsurance was considered “rather than a benefit, it's a hindrance.”

Conclusion

Interventions to aid in health insurance understanding and choice are needed to optimize plan choice and potentially reduce cancer‐related financial hardship.
Intracellular amastigotes in fine‐needle aspiration cytology of cutaneous leishmaniasis
Authors: Pudasaini Prajwal , GC Sagar , Paudel Sushil
Published: May 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of 45‐year‐old farmer who presented with solitary crateriform non healing ulcer with crust over left dorsal hand. FNAC of lesion showed intracellular round to oval amastigotes within macrophage on giemsa stain. This simple diagnostic method could be utilized as a diagnostic tool in resource poor setting.
Polycrystalline Metal–Organic Framework Membranes for Separation of Light Hydrocarbons
Authors: Zhao Jiaxin , Pan Ting , Jiang Fanfan , Duan Jingui , Jin Wanqin
Published: May 2023

Due to facile designability and versatile nanospace, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been considered as promising membrane materials. Compared to the mixed matrix membranes that incorporated with MOF particles, the polycrystalline MOF membranes demonstrates significant advantages in maximum utilizing the crystalline nanospace, and thus yielding a fruitful of achievements in the last twenty years. Although some reviews have summarized the development of MOF‐based membranes, the theoretical framework for oriented design and preparation of polycrystalline MOF membranes for highly efficient separation of light hydrocarbons remains in infancy. Herein, in this review, the fabrication strategies of polycrystalline MOF membranes and the corresponding performance in the separation of light hydrocarbons were classified and summarized. Particularly, the MOF membranes with global and local dynamics have been proposed as an interesting topic promoted performance.
After COVID‐19, what's next for colleges?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: May 2023

To begin, while higher education in the United States is currently stable, FitchRatings Service has taken a pessimistic view of the sector's future. According to the bond rating agency, enrollment instability, inflation, and the impact of the “great resignation” will impact the stability of U.S. colleges and universities in the year, and years, to come.
Impact of shading on evapotranspiration and water stress of urban trees
Authors: Tams Laura , Paton Eva Nora , Kluge Björn
Published: May 2023

Evapotranspiration of urban street trees is essential in mitigating urban heat islands due to its cooling effect. However, current shifts in rainfall and temperature regimes towards drier and hotter periods in Central Europe have caused substantial water stress for street trees. Quantifying and subsequently managing these changing dynamics as well as estimating evapotranspiration and water availability is necessary but at the same time extremely challenging in urban environments. Both dynamics are influenced by soil sealing and complex shading patterns of the surrounding street canyon, which vary on a small spatial scale as a function of the canyon layout and orientation. In the present study, the diurnal patterns of six typical urban shading types for street trees were derived by considering a large set of street orientations, widths and tree positions within the street canyon. A shading model was integrated into a hydrological urban tree model to assess the impact of those shading types on diurnal patterns of radiation and evapotranspiration rates calculated using the Penman–Monteith approach and the resulting soil moisture conditions for several vegetation seasons and water‐supply scenarios. The modelling results showed that the six shading patterns significantly influenced the simulated hourly, daily and seasonal potential and actual evapotranspiration rates and water availability. Shaded trees have a substantially reduced, simulated water stress period, regardless of initial water supply, and are able to provide a longer‐lasting cooling function during dry periods due to higher evapotranspiration rates later in the summer season.
Selective Hydrodeoxygenation of Lignin‐Derived Vanillin via Hetero‐Structured High‐Entropy Alloy/Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Sun Yan , Liang Kaili , Tu Ren , Fan Xudong , Jia Charles Q. , Jia Zhiwen , Li Yingnan , Yang Hui , Jiang Enchen , Liu Hanwen , Yao Yonggang , Xu Xiwei
Published: May 2023

The chemoselective hydrodeoxygenation of natural lignocellulosic materials plays a crucial role in converting biomass into value‐added chemicals. Yet their complex molecular structures often require multiple active sites synergy for effective activation and achieving high chemoselectivity. Herein, it is reported that a high‐entropy alloy (HEA) on high‐entropy oxide (HEO) hetero‐structured catalyst for highly active, chemoselective, and robust vanillin hydrodeoxygenation. The heterogenous HEA/HEO catalysts were prepared by thermal reduction of senary HEOs (NiZnCuFeAlZrOx), where exsolvable metals (e.g., Ni, Zn, Cu) in situ emerged and formed randomly dispersed HEA nanoparticles anchoring on the HEO matrix. This catalyst exhibits excellent catalytic performance: 100% conversion of vanillin and 95% selectivity toward high‐value 2‐methyl‐4 methoxy phenol at low temperature of 120 °C, which were attributed to the synergistic effect among HEO matrix (with abundant oxygen vacancies), anchored HEA nanoparticles (having excellent hydrogenolysis capability), and their intimate hetero‐interfaces (showing strong electron transferring effect). Therefore, our work reported the successful construction of HEA/HEO heterogeneous catalysts and their superior multifunctionality in biomass conversion, which could shed light on catalyst design for many important reactions that are complex and require multifunctional active sites.
Myristicin: From its biological effects in traditional medicine in plants to preclinical studies and use as ecological remedy in plant protection
Authors: Ramírez‐Alarcón Karina , Martorell Miquel , Gürer Eda Sönmez , Laher Ismail , Lam Hei‐Long , Mohieldin Ebtihal Abdalla M. , Muddathir Ali Mahoumd , Akram Muhammad , Iqbal Mehwish , Shafique Hamda , Leyva‐Gómez Gerardo , Shaheen Shabnum , Kumar Manoj , Sharifi‐Rad Javad , Amarowicz Ryszard , Butnariu Monica
Published: May 2023

Myristicin is an allylbenzene and a major key constituent of many plant species, such as Myristica fragrans Houtt. (nutmeg), Foeniculum vulgare Mill. (fennel), and Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss (parsley). Their plant parts have been used in traditional medicine and as a flavoring seasoning for cooking but, and as biopesticides with natural compounds. Myristicin has been related with several biological effects, such as anticarcinogenic, anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, analgesic, and hepatoprotective. The traditional uses include the treatment of complications related to gastrointestinal tract, respiratory system, and gynecological disorders. However, several studies have been reported contraindications associated to high dose consumption of myristicin. This review summarizes the biological activities of myristicin and myristicin‐rich plants, toxicological effects along with its bioavailability, and metabolism. In addition, their traditional uses and their role as ecological remedy in plants protection has been reviewed. Nutmeg is the myristicin‐rich plant with more pharmacological effects reported but also with most contraindication and toxically reports.