bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Nanocellulose Production from Cotton and Textile Waste Using Binary and Ternary Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Karimian Davud , Anzuoni Vincenzo , Smania Zoe , Orian Laura , Gross Silvia , Carraro Mauro 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe growing accumulation of textile waste poses significant environmental challenges, as only a small percentage of materials is currently recycled. However, cotton waste offers a valuable feedstock for the regeneration of cellulose and nanocellulose (NC). This study presents a sustainable and efficient method for producing NC from textile waste using both binary and ternary natural deep eutectic solvents (NADESs). By treating cotton wool, pre‐consumer standard cotton fabrics, and post‐consumer denim textiles, with NADESs, NC generation is achieved in high yields (up to ≈90%) in all cases. The most promising NADESs, composed of choline chloride and gallic acid (and tartaric acid), effectively dissolve cotton‐based materials when subjected to heating and sonication, producing cellulose nanocrystals with length ranging from 100 to 300 nm and crystallinity level up to ≈80%. The NADESs are characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), as well as modeled by density functional theory (DFT), to investigate their hydrogen bond network. Eventually, their recyclability is also investigated. This approach opens promising applications in the fields of sustainable nanomaterial production and textile recycling, providing a greener alternative for waste valorization and promoting circular economy practices.
Polygyny, Infant, and Child Mortality in Pakistan: Moderating Effect of Household Wealth Status
Authors: Shah Athar Ali , Ibupoto Mukhtiar Hussain , Rind Rahim Dad , Channa Ali Nawaz 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTIntroductionThe United Nations report in 2021 ranks Pakistan 21st among countries with the highest infant and child mortality rate in the world. It is the fifth most populous country in the world with a growth rate of 2% annually. Therefore, understanding child mortality is crucial to reducing the child mortality burden.MethodThe research utilized two waves of the Pakistan Demographic and Health Survey (PDHS), 2012–13 and 2017–18. The data are analyzed using logistic regression with interaction effects of household wealth status and propensity score matching techniques.ResultsThe study reveals a positive link between polygyny and infant and child mortality. The odd ratios higher than “1” indicate increased mortality risk for infants and children belonging to polygynous families taking monogamous families as a reference category. Mortality risk is higher among children (OR 1.50 CI 0.18–12.63) as compared with infants (OR 1.28 CI 0.37–4.45). The main effect of household shows a negative association with infant and child mortality while after interacting with polygyny it turns out to be positive. The mortality risks increase with increasing wealth status. It can be translated as a positive link between household wealth status, and infant and child mortality in the context of polygyny.ConclusionInfants and children belonging to polygynous families experience increased mortality risk as compared with monogamous families. The household wealth status may not help improve child mortality.
Exome Sequencing Detects Uniparental Disomy of Chromosome 4 Revealing a LARP7 Pathogenic Variant Responsible for Alazami Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Amélie Buisine‐Sbraggia , Julien Thevenon , Kevin Yauy , Marie‐Emmanuelle Naud , Jean‐Marc Costa , Fanny Dubois‐Teklali , Marjolaine Willems , Klaus Dieterich , Véronique Satre , Charles Coutton , Tanno Pauline Le 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTAlazami syndrome is an autosomal recessive disease characterized by global developmental delay, growth restriction, and distinctive facial features. Fewer than 50 individuals are currently reported with biallelic loss of function variants in LARP7. We report the case of a 3.5‐year‐old boy born from nonconsanguineous parents, presenting with syndromic global developmental delay. Exome sequencing identified a homozygous frameshift pathogenic variant in LARP7. Parental analysis failed to detect the variant in the paternal sample, although the father's biological paternity was confirmed. Targeted secondary bioinformatic analyses at the LARP7 locus suggested a 45 Mb loss of heterozygosity (LOH), further confirmed by a single nucleotide polymorphism array that identified four LOH regions on chromosome 4, including one encompassing LARP7. This LOH exposes the recessive LARP7 pathogenic variant, resulting in the manifestation of Alazami syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of Alazami syndrome due to uniparental disomy (UPD). UPD is a rare cause of autosomal recessive disorders. Its identification is crucial for genetic counseling to adjust recurrence risk for siblings. This case highlights the effectiveness and usefulness of bioinformatics algorithms applied to next generation sequencing in detecting such events.
Characterization of Two Novel PNKP Splice‐Site Variants in a Proband With Microcephaly, Intellectual Disability, and Multiple Malformations
Authors: Sorrentino Ugo , Baschiera Elisa , Desbats Maria Andrea , Zuffardi Orsetta , Salviati Leonardo , Cassina Matteo 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTPolynucleotide kinase phosphatase (PNKP), encoded by the PNKP gene, is a DNA processing enzyme involved in double‐strand break and single‐strand break repair pathways, which are essential for genome stability and for the correct development and maintenance of human nervous system. PNKP biallelic loss‐of‐function variants have been associated with a broad spectrum of neurological anomalies, ranging from congenital microcephaly with intellectual disability and seizures (MCSZ), to later onset forms of ataxia‐oculomotor apraxia (AOA4) or peripheral neuropathy (CMT2B2). We report the atypical clinical manifestations of a patient with severe microcephaly, short stature, developmental delay, conductive hearing loss, and tracheoesophageal malformation, in the absence of seizures. Whole exome sequencing analysis identified two novel, compound heterozygous splice‐site variants in the PNKP gene (NM_007254.4): c.1448+1G > A and c.199‐8_199‐5del. To demonstrate the effect of both variants on the splicing process and prove their pathogenicity, we performed a hybrid minigene assay, which successfully highlighted a deleterious impact on the transcript, particularly regarding the c.199‐8_199‐5del variant. The uncommon clinical features of the proband and the identification of two newly associated pathogenic variants add further evidence to the allelic and phenotypic heterogeneity of the PNKP locus.
Selective Oxidative Scission of Olefins to Aldehydes Enabled by Ruthenium Complexes Containing Salicylaldimine Ligands
Authors: Xu Hui , Xing Xiaojuan , Hao Zhiqiang , Han Zhangang , Ma Zhihong , Lin Jin 
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACTTreatment of Ru3(CO)12 with salicylaldimine ligands [ArNCH(3‐tBuC6H3OH) [ArC6H5 (L1H); 4‐OMeC6H4 (L2H); 4‐MeC6H4 (L3H); 2,4,6‐Me3C6H2 (L4H); 4‐ClC6H4 (L5H); 4‐BrC6H4 (L6H)] in refluxing toluene afforded six bis‐ligand mononuclear ruthenium carbonyl complexes [ArNCH(3‐tBuC6H3O)]2Ru(CO)2 1a–1f in good yields. All of the Ru(II) complexes were characterized using IR, NMR, and elemental analysis. The molecular structures of complexes 1a, 1b, 1e, and 1f were further confirmed through X‐ray diffraction analysis. Additionally, the catalytic performance of these complexes was investigated in the oxidation of olefins to aldehydes, using TBHP as the oxidant in refluxing trichloromethane. With 1.0 mol% catalyst loading, these ruthenium complexes displayed high reactivity and good functional‐group compatibility, selectivity providing the corresponding oxidation product aldehydes in 73%–94% yields.
Liposomes as sustainable delivery systems in food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical applications
Authors: Luo Minfang , Oomah B. Dave , Akoetey Winifred , Zhang Yuqing , Daneshfozoun Hamed , Hosseinian Farah 
Published: October 2024

AbstractLiposomes are artificial microscopic vesicles composed of phospholipid bilayers with the ability to encapsulate both hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules, owing to the amphipathic nature of lipids. Hydrophobic molecules can be stored within the bilayer membrane, while hydrophilic molecules can be embedded in the inner core of liposomes. Encapsulated compounds within liposomes are protected from environmental and chemical alterations, such as enzymatic and chemical modifications, as well as changes against extreme pH, temperature, and ionic strength. Liposomes protective nature highlights their importance as nanocarriers for a wide spectrum of hydrophobic and hydrophilic molecules. This review offers a concise introduction to the fundamental physicochemical properties of liposomes and the various production methods including the role of cholesterol and potential alternatives such as phytosterols. It also provides an up‐to‐date overview of liposomes applications as delivery vehicles in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
Effect of macromolecular structure modification of kapok fibers by silane treatment on mechanical properties of their reinforced composites
Authors: Das Ramyaranjan , Dash Chinmayee , Upreti Divyansh , Patro T. Umasankar , Altomare Angela , Bisoyi Dillip Kumar 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe present study investigates the usability of lignocellulosic kapok fibers as a reinforcement for lightweight composites. Kapok fibers are modified by dewaxing followed by a silane coupling agent at different concentrations. The crystallographic structure and the alignment of silane linkage polymer chains on fiber structure are examined using X‐ray Diffraction (XRD). The linkage of chemical bonds (SiOC And SiOSi) between the polymer structure of the fiber and silane coupling agent is confirmed from FTIR spectroscopy. Additionally, the small angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) study is done considering kapok fiber as a nonideal two‐phase system and the study investigates the modification occurring within the macromolecular structure of the kapok fiber. Following the grafting of silanes onto the fiber, silane‐modified kapok fiber‐reinforced epoxy composites are fabricated using the hand lay‐up technique. The chemical treatments on the fiber, enhanced flexural, tensile and impact strength of the composites by 132%, 102%, and 146% respectively.
Systemic Sclerosis Dermal Fibroblast Exosomes Trigger Type 1 Interferon Responses in Keratinocytes via a TBK/JAK/STAT Signaling Axis
Authors: Bryon Jessica , Wasson Christopher W. , Koeppen Katja , Chandler Francesca , Willis Leon F. , Di Donato Stefano , Klein Elliott , Zeqiraj Elton , Ross Rebecca L. , Del Galdo Francesco 
Published: October 2024

ObjectiveActivation of type I interferon (IFN) response has been shown to correlate with disease activity in systemic sclerosis (SSc). It is currently unknown whether the tissue‐specific type I IFN activation is a consequence of the response observed in blood or rather its source. Exosomes from SSc fibroblasts were recently shown to activate macrophages in vitro. Here, we aimed to determine the source of type I IFN signature in SSc skin biopsies and the potential role of exosomes from SSc dermal fibroblasts in the process.MethodsSkin biopsies were obtained from the forearms of healthy patients and of those with SSc and processed for dermal fibroblasts and keratinocytes. Exosomes were isolated from healthy and SSc dermal fibroblast supernatants by ultracentrifugation and added to human skin keratinocytes. Keratinocyte transcriptome was analyzed by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis. TANK‐binding kinase (TBK) and JAK were inhibited using a small molecule inhibitor (GSK8612) and tofacitinib, respectively.ResultsSSc skin biopsies showed the highest levels of type I IFN response in the epidermal layer. RNA‐seq analysis of keratinocytes transcriptome following exposure to dermal fibroblast exosomes showed strong up‐regulation of IFN signature genes induced by SSc exosomes compared to healthy control. Inhibition of TBK or JAK activity suppressed the up‐regulation of the IFN signature induced by SSc exosomes.ConclusionIFN activation of SSc keratinocytes is dependent on their crosstalk with dermal fibroblasts and inducible by extracellular exosomes. Our data indicate that SSc fibroblast exosomes contribute to the type I IFN activation in SSc skin through activation of pattern recognition receptors upstream of TBK.
Strategy in Promoting Visible Light Absorption, Charge Separation, CO2 Adsorption and Proton Production for Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction with H2O
Authors: Zou Jia‐Fu , Li Sha , Liu Peng , Zhao Yiyi , Wang Tingwei , Pan Yun‐Xiang , Yan Xiaoliang 
Published: October 2024

AbstractSolar‐energy‐driven photocatalytic CO2 reduction by H2O to high‐valuable carbon‐containing chemicals has become one of the greatest concerns in both scientific and industrial communities, due to its potential in solving energy and environmental problems. However, efficiency of photocatalytic CO2 reduction by H2O is still far below the needs of large‐scale applications. The reduction efficiency is closely related to ability of photocatalysts in absorbing visible light which is the main part of sunlight (44 %), separating photogenerated electron‐hole pairs, adsorbing CO2 and producing protons for reducing CO2. Thus, photocatalysts with enhanced visible light absorption, electron‐hole separation, CO2 adsorption and proton production are highly desired. Herein, we aim to provide a picture of recent progresses in improving ability of photocatalysts in visible light absorption, electron‐hole separation, CO2 adsorption and proton production, and give an outlook for future researches associated with photocatalytic CO2 reduction by H2O.
Finite‐time/fixed‐time stability and stabilization of a class of delayed neural networks system with discontinuous activation
Authors: Zhang Zhi‐Zhou , Zhao Wei‐Long , Pan Yue‐Liang , Zi Zheng , Xie Yuan , Zhang Jin‐Chu 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis paper focuses to analyze the finite‐time stability (FNTS) and fixed‐time stability (FXTS) of a class of discontinuous neural networks (NNs) with time‐varying delays. Firstly, considering the fuzzy logics and discontinuities in the NNs, a novel FNTS/FXTS approach based functional differential inclusion (FDI) theory is proposed. Under the framework of the Filippov state solution, the generalized Lyapunov functional method developed can obtain an indefinite time derivative almost anywhere along the system's state solutions. Some novel FNTS and FXTS analysis of the trivial state solution for FDI are provided. In particular, the settling time (ST) of FNTS/FXTS is presented. For the requirements of FNTS and FXTS, two control laws are designed for the discontinuous delayed neural networks (DNNs), respectively. Finally, the correctness and the advantages of the proposed method are demonstrated through its DNNs applications.
Evaluating the impact the Self‐Compassion App has on levels of compassion, psychological distress and well‐being
Authors: Beaumont Elaine , Dagnall Neil , Massey Sue , Irons Chris 
Published: October 2024

AbstractIntroductionThe Self‐Compassion App is the first commercially available, smartphone app based upon the ideas and practices of Compassion‐Focused Therapy. Through 28 sessions, the app supports individuals to develop compassionate minds and, in doing so, promotes well‐being and reduces psychological distress (e.g. self‐criticism and shame).AimThis study evaluated the impact the app had on participants' levels of compassion, well‐being, self‐criticism and psychological distress.MethodologyFifty‐two participants—consisting of staff and students at the University of Salford—took part in this study. Pre‐, post‐ and follow‐up measures were collected to explore changes in levels of compassion, self‐criticism, emotion regulation, well‐being and psychological distress.FindingsStatistically significant increases were observed in levels of self‐compassion, self‐reassurance, emotion regulation skills and well‐being. Significant reductions were found in self‐criticism, anxiety and stress, and post‐study, participants became more open to receiving compassion from others.ImplicationsResults from this study are promising and suggest that using the Self‐Compassion App reduces psychological distress and enhances psychological well‐being. Considering interventions that utilise technology with the aim of boosting well‐being, levels of compassion and reducing self‐criticism are potentially important given the difficulties that many students and educators experience, and the current waitlist times for psychological help and support.Further ResearchA randomised control trial and longitudinal study would be beneficial to explore the long‐term benefits of using the app. Further studies, in clinical and non‐clinical populations, will clarify how the app might benefit people and what type of engagement is necessary to derive change.
Mapping the modern workforce: An overview of workforce competency demands
Authors: Granillo‐Velasquez Kenneth E. , Musemeche Nicolas P. , Reyes Denise L. 
Published: October 2024

AbstractAn understanding of the demands of the contemporary world of work may help guide policy‐ and decision‐making processes. However, despite the importance of this understanding, few studies have attempted to examine the universe of available occupations to determine the most in‐demand knowledge, skills, abilities, and other worker characteristics (KSAOs) as well as the relative demands of these KSAOs across occupations. This study addresses the first concern by calculating weighted averages that rely on the Occupational Information Network's (O*NET's) data on worker requirements and characteristics and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ (BLS’) employment counts. Furthermore, this study leverages the power of latent profile analyses to identify numerous workplace profiles, allowing us to uncover the extent to which KSAOs are demanded in relation to each other. Key findings suggest that the competencies relating to communication, business, technology, and cognition were among the most highly demanded KSAOs in the labor market. Additionally, identified KSAO profiles indicated that the rank ordering of KSAO level requirements differed across large sections of the labor market, indicating that the rank orderings proposed by the weighted averages were not consistent across the occupations examined. In sum, the findings of this study provide vital occupational information that contributes to our understanding of the KSAOs that are expected from the prospective workforce. In the context of career guidance, such information may assist career counselors and other guidance professionals in describing the world of work to their clients, thereby empowering them to make more educated career development choices that will improve their employability within the extant labor market.
Microenvironment Manipulation Strategies for Acidic CO2 Electrolysis
Authors: Li Geng , Liu Yong , Feng Tanglue , Ye Ruquan 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThe electrochemical reduction of CO2 (CO2RR) has gained significant attention due to its potential to reduce carbon emissions and produce valuable fuels and chemicals. CO2RR is typically carried out in neutral or alkaline conditions, while challenges such as the carbon crossover and salt precipitate can hinder the practical application. Conducting CO2RR in acidic media presents a promising method to address these issues, although it faces the problem of low efficiency and poor catalysis stability. Regulating the interface/surface microenvironment near the catalysts is crucial to minimize the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction and enhance CO2RR activity and long‐term stability. This review outlines recent advancements in acidic CO2RR, emphasizing various microenvironment engineering strategies for optimizing the CO2RR kinetics including electrolyte composition manipulation, catalyst design, electrode modification and cell configuration optimization. Additionally, the review addresses challenges into developing practical and cost‐effective CO2RR systems.
Clock‐out: What explains “Quiet Quitting” in financial services?
Authors: Henderson Rebecca , Lehman Jennifer , Sunder Aman 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the impact of job demands and resources, employee engagement, burnout, satisfaction, and human capital on the Quiet Quitting (QQ) phenomenon among financial planners using a convenience sample of College for Financial Planning alumni. It also investigates whether gender differences exist in the factors that explain QQ. The random convenience sample had gender differences in roles, salaries, and QQ, favoring men more than women and aligned with the financial planning profession's gender diversity issues. Results reveal the factors that explain QQ in financial planning. However, women did not exhibit any differences from men regarding the factors.
Von Daten zu Entdeckungen: Künstliche Intelligenz in der Chemie
Authors: Hess Franziska 
Published: October 2024

ZusammenfassungKünstliche Intelligenz (KI) birgt großes Potenzial in der Nutzung komplexer Zusammenhänge innerhalb großer Datensätze. Die wesentliche Herausforderung besteht darin, relevante Merkmale in abstrakten Daten wie Molekülen, Verbindungen oder Spektren zu erkennen. Modelle werden durch überwachte oder unüberwachte Lernmethoden trainiert und getestet. Aktives Lernen und iterative Prozesse verbessern die Genauigkeit. KI bietet Potenzial für präzise Vorhersagen und Innovationen in der Forschung und Industrie.
A comprehensive review of cyclone separator technology
Authors: Aylı Ece , Kocak Eyup 
Published: October 2024

AbstractThis review article examines the working principles, optimal dimensions, effects of key parameters, and the results of experimental/numerical studies on cyclone separators. Investigations have been conducted on the effects of parameters such as vortex finder diameter, conical part diameter, cyclone separator diameter, cylinder height, inlet height, inlet width, vortex finder length, and cyclone total length on efficiency, performance, and pressure drop. Furthermore, the article explores current modifications and efforts to improve efficiency. These modifications include adding water nozzles, inserting ribs, employing double‐stage cyclones, incorporating additional inlets, using finned cylinder bodies, adding extra top inlets, introducing liquid jets, employing helical roof inlets, adding laminarizers, incorporating internal spiral vanes, and employing slotted vortex finders. While serving as a guide to optimize the design and performance of cyclone separators, this article emphasizes new and innovative approaches to enhance their industrial applicability. By compiling studies conducted from conceptual birth to the present, the aim of this article is to serve as a guidebook.
Practical aspects of multiphase slug frequency: An overview
Authors: Arabi Abderraouf , Höhn Ronaldo Luis , Pallares Jordi , Stiriba Youssef 
Published: October 2024

AbstractSlug frequency, the number of liquid slugs passing through a point per unit of time, is an intrinsic parameter that is used to characterize multiphase slug flows in pipes. In this review we discuss practical aspects of slug frequency for industrial purposes from an examination of published literature and available experimental data. The review shows that slug frequency appears to play a key role in the modelling of intermittent flow using 1‐D mechanistic slug models and 3‐D computational fluid dynamics tools. In addition, various global parameters and phenomena used to design, optimize, and control industrial pipelines are directly impacted by slug frequency. This manuscript highlights the importance of slug frequency not only for petroleum engineering but also for chemical, nuclear, and mechanical engineering.