bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reading Speed and Comprehension Enhancement in Hybrid Learning Delivery Mode
Authors: Abdullah Muhaimin
Published: July 2018

The main objective of this research is to find out whether rate-buildup reading, skimming, and scanning strategies applied in hybrid learning method help students boost their reading speed and comprehension. This research employed quasi-experimental design. 15 students were involved into experimental group and 15 were enrolled into control group. Students of experimental group were treated through hybrid learning delivery mode in which web-based portal accessible on www.muhaiminabdullah.com was hosted as reading portal while students of control group were assigned only to paper-based reading activities in face-to-face method of contents delivery. Both students of experimental group and students of control group successfully boost their reading speed and comprehension. It is implied that reading speed and comprehension are possible to be enhanced both in web-based reading portal and in face to face. The dispersion of standard deviation on posttest that tends to be high suggests that further researchers conduct the experiment in a more well-controlled design towards experimental group.
The physiological response of the deep-sea coralSolenosmilia variabilisto ocean acidification
Authors: Gammon Malindi J. , Tracey Dianne M. , Marriott Peter M. , Cummings Vonda J. , Davy Simon K.
Published: July 2018

Several forms of calcifying scleractinian corals provide important habitat complexity in the deep-sea and are consistently associated with a high biodiversity of fish and other invertebrates. How these corals may respond to the future predicted environmental conditions of ocean acidification is poorly understood, but any detrimental effects on these marine calcifiers will have wider impacts on the ecosystem. Colonies ofSolenosmilia variabilis, a protected deep-sea coral commonly occurring throughout the New Zealand region, were collected during a cruise in March 2014 from the Louisville Seamount Chain. Over a 12-month period, samples were maintained in temperature controlled (∼3.5 °C) continuous flow-through tanks at a seawater pH that reflects the region’s current conditions (7.88) and an end-of-century scenario (7.65). Impacts on coral growth and the intensity of colour saturation (as a proxy for the coenenchyme tissue that covers the coral exoskeleton and links the coral polyps) were measured bimonthly. In addition, respiration rate was measured after a mid-term (six months) and long-term (12 months) exposure period. Growth rates were highly variable, ranging from 0.53 to 3.068 mm year−1and showed no detectable difference between the treatment and control colonies. Respiration rates also varied independently of pH and ranged from 0.065 to 1.756 µmol O2g protein−1h−1. A significant change in colour was observed in the treatment group over time, indicating a loss of coenenchyme. This loss was greatest after 10 months at 5.28% and could indicate a reallocation of energy with physiological processes (e.g.  growth and respiration) being maintained at the expense of coenenchyme production. This research illustrates important first steps to assessing and understanding the sensitivity of deep-sea corals to ocean acidification.
Dawn chorus interpretation differs when using songs or calls: the Dupont’s Lark Chersophilus duponti case
Authors: Pérez-Granados Cristian , Osiejuk Tomasz S. , López-Iborra Germán M.
Published: July 2018

Background

Territorial songbirds vocalise intensively before sunrise and then decrease their vocal activity. This creates a communication network that disseminates essential information for both males and females. The function of dawn chorus in birds has been frequently interpreted according to seasonal variation of singing as the breeding season advances, but potential differences in seasonal variation of song and calls for the same species have not been taken into account.

Methods

We chose Dupont’s Lark as a model species to study whether the seasonal pattern of dawn chorus differs between singing and calling activity, because in this species most daily songs and calls are uttered at dawn. We registered vocal activity of Dupont’s Lark before and around dawn in three different populations, through repeated sampling over the entire breeding season of two consecutive years.

Results

We found that dawn singing parameters remained constant or presented an increasing trend while dawn calling activity decreased as breeding season advanced. We also found different daily patterns for singing and calling, with birds calling mostly during the first 30 minutes of dawn choruses and singing peaking afterwards.

Discussion

The different time patterns of songs and calls may indicate that they serve diverse functions at dawn in the Dupont’s Lark. Relaxation of dawn calling activity after the first month of the breeding season would suggest that dawn calling may be mainly related to mate attraction, while constant dawn singing throughout the breeding period would support a relationship of dawn singing to territorial defence. Our study highlights that the type of vocalisation used is an important factor to consider in further research on dawn choruses, since results may differ depending on whether calls or songs are analysed.
Receptive Vocabulary and Learning Strategies in Secondary School CLIL and non-CLIL Learners
Authors:   Universidad de Extremadura (España), Castellano-Risco Irene
Published: July 2018

In recent years, vocabulary has risen up as a key issue in Second Language Learning (cf. Jiménez Catalán & Terrazas Gallego, 2005; Siriwan, 2007; Boers & Lindstromberg, 2008; Schmitt, 2008, 2010). Moreover, CLIL, the acronym for Content and Language Integrated Learning, as an educational approach in which content subjects are taught through a foreign language, has seen a surge in the different educational systems all throughout Europe. The present piece of research aims to present a study about the use of vocabulary learning strategies and their relation to the receptive vocabulary size of secondary school learners. In order to explore this issue, two groups (one CLIL and one non-CLIL) of students from Extremadura were asked to answer two different questionnaires: a Yes/No test (Meara, 2010 [1992]) and a vocabulary learning strategies test (adapted from Schmitt, 1997). The data obtained was analyzed with two specific objectives in mind: to look for differences between the learner groups regarding their use of strategies and between their levels of receptive vocabulary. Results show differences between both groups not only in their receptive vocabulary size, but also in their use of vocabulary learning strategies. From the results of this study, it can be concluded that CLIL instruction seems to benefit the acquisition of foreign language and may also have an influence on the use of certain vocabulary learning strategies.
La atenuación en los comentarios sobre las noticias digitales en periódicos de España y Chile
Authors:   Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Moya Muñoz Patricio , Carrió-Pastor María Luisa ,   Universitat Politècnica de València (España)
Published: July 2018

El objetivo de esta investigación es identificar la variación en los mecanismos de atenuación empleados por los comentaristas de las noticias digitales publicadas en los periódicos El País (España) y Emol (Chile) en dos ámbitos temáticos diferentes, la política y los deportes. En este análisis, entendemos la atenuación como parte del análisis del metadiscurso interpersonal, es decir, como los elementos del lenguaje que indican la decisión del escritor por reconocer diferentes puntos de vista para así no comprometerse completamente con una proposición (Hyland, 2005). El corpus de este estudio está compuesto por 2.400 comentarios de noticias digitales que posteriormente se analizaron con la herramienta UAM Corpus Tool con el fin de detectar los marcadores que se habían utilizado para atenuar los comentarios digitales. Los resultados, por un lado, indicaron que los comentarios correspondientes al diario El País incluyen una mayor cantidad de atenuadores que los producidos en los comentarios del periódico Emol; por otro lado, se detectó que no había relación entre el uso de atenuadores y el ámbito temático.
Las jerarquías de argumentos nominales desde el enfoque de los proto-papeles temáticos
Authors:   Universidad de Salamanca (España), Recio Diego Álvaro
Published: July 2018

El objeto de este trabajo es proponer un principio de proyección de argumentos en español capaz de explicar la estructura argumental en todos los sintagmas nominales (SSNN) con red temática, ya sea esta heredada (sustantivos deverbales y deadjetivales) o inherente (sustantivos relacionales y de representación). El enfoque de los proto-papeles temáticos, asumido tanto para verbos como para sustantivos, y la prueba de la posesivización, que determina cuál es el argumento más prominente, sugieren la existencia de dos jerarquías temáticas diferentes para la ordenación de los complementos del nombre: {Poseedor > Proto-Agente > Proto-Paciente}, para los SSNN relacionados con verbos; {Proto-Todo > Proto-Parte}, para los SSNN no relacionados con verbos.
Estudio de las dificultades de aprendizaje del hablante rumano de español como lengua extranjera
Authors:   Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (España), Rodríguez-Rodríguez María Nayra , Györfi Ana María ,   Universidad de Las Palmas de Gran Canaria (España)
Published: July 2018

Los objetivos principales de este estudio tratan de analizar y de profundizar en las dificultades de aprendizaje del español en la comunidad rumana residente en las Islas Canarias. Para ello, hemos pasado una serie de encuestas a través de Internet a los rumanos residentes en Canarias registrados en la Asociación RUMACAN1 . Unido a los resultados de las encuestas, hemos utilizado para la investigación distintas fuentes escritas, como revistas científicas, publicaciones, textos virtuales, nacionales e internacionales, recogidas en repositorios virtuales. Nuestros resultados confirman que las dificultades que los aprendices rumanos presentan en el español hablado pueden ser extrapoladas al nivel escrito. Hemos podido comprobar que se trata de dificultades en la concordancia entre el artículo y el adjetivo con el sustantivo, la concordancia entre sujeto y verbo, el uso del verbo haber en distintos tiempos verbales, el uso del subjuntivo en oraciones subordinadas sustantiva y adjetiva, la pasiva refleja y el uso del dígrafo rr. Este estudio puede considerarse como punto de partida de futuras investigaciones relacionadas con la enseñanza del español, no solamente para el colectivo rumano, sino que para todos aquellos colectivos cuya lengua de proveniencia sea una lengua romance.
Ilse Depraetere y Raphael Salkie (eds.): Semantics and Pragmatics: Drawing a Line
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Dominiccini Eduardo
Published: July 2018

No contempla resumen
Editorial
Authors:   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Cornejo Marcela
Published: July 2018

Es mayo de 2018 y un nuevo número de Psykhe se publica. A más de 25 años de su fundación en 1992, Psykhe ha publicado 50 números y un total de 571 artículos. La labor de las revistas científicas, orientada a la divulgación del conocimiento, es relevante. Las investigadoras Laurel Richardson y Elizabeth St. Pierre (2005) señalan que escribir es un método de investigación. Agregaríamos que la escritura —en tanto proceso creativo— y la divulgación de los escritos —en tanto proceso de transmisión— son importantes componentes de los andamiajes implicados en los procesos investigativos, así como importantes dispositivos para permitir la discusión y reflexión crítica de aquello que realizamos cuando hacemos investigación.
Theories of Arousal Predict a Link Between Heart Rate Variability and Reactive Aggression: Meta‐Analytic Results Disagree
Authors: McCurry Annah G. , May Robert C. , Donaldson David I.
Published: November 2024

Polyvagal theory posits that habitually aggressive individuals might have an impaired capacity to calm after arousal, which has led to the investigation of Arousal‐based biological indicators ‐ “biomarkers” ‐ of aggression, to identify individuals at high risk. The most popular approach in research examining (specifically reactive) aggression is the use of wearable technologies that can non‐invasively measure heart rate variability (HRV), a cardiovascular phenomenon impacted by activation of the parasympathetic (“rest and digest”) nervous system. But there is a problem: no one has systematically analyzed the results of these studies to determine if HRV is an effective predictor of reactive aggression. We surveyed an initial 705 articles, producing 48 effect estimates amenable to meta‐analysis. Counter to predictions derived from polyvagal theory, the results reveal no correlation between HRV and reactive aggression. We discuss the implications of this novel finding for theory and practice, considering both the complexity of identifying effective biomarkers and the practical limitations driving methodological decisions in aggression research. We conclude that there is no empirical evidence supporting HRV as a valid biomarker of aggression.
Uncertainty Quantification of Microstructures: A Perspective on Forward and Inverse Problems for Mechanical Properties of Aerospace Materials
Authors: Billah Md Maruf , Elleithy Mohamed , Khan Waris , Yıldız Saltuk , Eğer Zekeriya Ender , Liu Sheng , Long Matthew , Acar Pınar
Published: November 2024

In this review, state‐of‐the‐art studies on the uncertainty quantification (UQ) of microstructures in aerospace materials is examined, addressing both forward and inverse problems. Initially, it introduces the types of uncertainties and UQ algorithms. In the review, the forward problem of uncertainty propagation in process–structure and structure–property relationships is then explored. Subsequently, the inverse UQ problem, also known as the design under uncertainty problem, is discussed focusing on structure–process and property–structure linkages. Herein, the review concludes by identifying gaps in the current literature and suggesting key areas for future research, including multiscale topology optimization under uncertainty, implementing physics‐informed neural networks to UQ problems, investigating the effects of uncertainty on extreme mechanical behavior, reliability‐based design, and UQ in additive manufacturing.
Agarose Micro/Nanostructured Surfaces: A Step Toward an Innovative Solution for Platelet Storage Bags
Authors: Apte Gurunath , Soter Marcus , Madkatte Dikshita , Heinrich Doris , Nguyen Thi‐Huong
Published: November 2024

In addressing the critical limitations associated with platelet storage, the study investigates an innovative solution aimed at preventing the unwanted activation of platelets within storage bags. This activation is a key factor that currently restricts the shelf life of platelet products to only 72 h, leading to extreme waste production and high costs. Here, highly effective surfaces are identified for minimizing surface‐induced platelet activation. Using thermal nanoimprint lithography (T‐NIL), a new method is demonstrated for patterning reproducible agarose micro/nanostructures (a natural hydrogel with anti‐platelet adhesive properties) including dots, chains, pills, and squares. The agarose (3%) structured surfaces displayed outstanding flexibility and hydrophilic behavior that prevented platelet adhesion as confirmed by confocal microscopy. Importantly, pill‐shaped structures effectively maintained their ability to prevent platelet adhesion, even after a long cell‐contacting duration. Atomic force microscopy indicated that the effectiveness of dampening platelet adherence is determined by the shape, size, height, and aspect ratio of the structures. A model is provided to explain how the different shapes affect wettability and thereby hinder platelet adherence. The developed anti‐adhesive agarose structured surfaces show promise to revolutionize platelet storage, provide vital insights into biomaterials research, and demonstrate the potential of tailored agarose surfaces in biomedical applications.
Densifying Conduction Networks of Vertically Aligned Carbon Fiber Arrays with Secondary Graphene Networks for Highly Thermally Conductive Polymer Composites
Authors: Lu Xiao‐Hang , Liu Ji , Shu Chao , Zhang Si‐Cheng , Zhao Hao‐Yu , Zhang Yan , Wang Qianlong , Yu Zhong‐Zhen , Li Xiaofeng
Published: November 2024

Thermally conductive polymer composites hold great potential for thermal management applications in the electronics industry, but achieving metal‐like thermal conductivity (>200 W m−1 K−1) remains challenging due to the inevitable phonon scattering and the thermal resistance at filler‐filler and filler‐matrix interfaces. Herein, an efficient approach is presented to overcome this long‐standing barrier by designing a densified interconnecting filler framework, featuring a macro‐level carbon fiber (CF) array welded with a high‐quality, self‐assembled graphene network. In this framework, vertically aligned continuous CFs function as primary through‐plane thermal conduction paths, minimizing phonon scattering and thermal resistance. Meanwhile, the secondary graphene network interconnects the CFs into a more integrated and densified framework while introducing supplementary thermal conduction paths. Following polymer backfilling, the resulting epoxy nanocomposite exhibits an unprecedented through‐plane thermal conductivity of 262 W m−1 K−1 at a filler loading of 23.3 vol%, establishing a new benchmark among the thermally conducting polymer composites. When employed as a thermal interface material, this composite offers a 68.2% enhancement in cooling efficiency compared to standard commercial counterparts. Furthermore, the functional composite presents excellent Joule heating and interfacial adhesion properties, making it promising for thermal interface healing and multifunctional thermal management applications in complex environments.
Ultrafast All‐Optical Logic Gates in Quasi‐2D Perovskites
Authors: Fu Yulan , Zhang Yi , Zhang Yiwei , Wang Jiawei , Zhang Baohuan , Feng Shifeng , Zhang Xinping
Published: November 2024

Quasi‐2D perovskites are widely used in solar cells, photodetectors, and light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) due to their excellent optoelectronic properties and stability. However, much fewer all‐optical devices are realized based on quasi‐2D perovskites. Although perovskites have large nonlinear optical coefficients, the relaxation progress of excitons and carriers will slow down the response time and reduce the signal contrast of the all‐optical devices. In this paper, the exciton dynamics are investigated under off‐resonance excitation in quasi‐2D perovskite PEA2(FAPbBr3)2PbBr4. The spin‐selective optical Stark effect (OSE) is observed through circularly polarized transient absorption measurements, and a Stark shift of 3.3 meV is achieved under 1.11 eV excitation. The hot‐biexciton cooling process induced by two‐photon absorption is also observed. A spin‐based XNOR gate is demonstrated with a response time of ≈180 fs, and the logical signal contrast is enhanced through the competition of the OSE and the hot‐biexciton effect.
Construction of α‐Ketoamides via Photoredox‐Catalyzed N−H Insertion of Amines by Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Yu Xianglin , Yang Haiyue , Liu Chang , He Qiping , Yang Zhijun , Jin Yi
Published: November 2024

Herein, we report the development of photoredox‐catalyzed N−H insertion of sulfoxonium ylides with amines via oxidative single‐electron transfer (SET). These reactions exhibit broad substrate scope (32 examples) and offer operationally simple, scalable procedures for accessing α‐ketoamides in a single step. Mechanistic studies and control experiments confirm the participation of a photogenerated carbon radical in facilitating the oxidative single‐electron transfer (SET) from the sulfoxonium ylides to initiate the reaction.
Fenton‐Inactive Cd Enables Highly Selective O2‐Derived Domino Reaction
Authors: Wang Yitong , Wang Huilin , Yang Yulu , Hao Zhaomin , Deng Ruiping , Dong Qingsong , Liu Qingchao , You Hongpeng , Song Shuyan
Published: November 2024

Advancing and deploying Fenton‐inactive Cd that combines excellent catalytic activity, selectivity, and stability remains a serious challenge, predominantly owing to the difficulty in regulating the intrinsic electronic states and local geometric structures of such fully occupied d10s2 configuration. In this work, a combination of experiments and theoretical calculations reveals that the incorporation of boron (B) enables the tuning of the average oxidation state of Cd0 to Cdδ+, facilitating electron localization and implementing a different electrocatalytic preference compared to conventional d10‐electron configurations. The resulting Cd(B) catalyst demonstrates high selectivity (>90% on average) in the O2‐to‐H2O2 conversion, negligible activity loss over 100 h, and a superior H2O2 production rate (15.5 mol∙gcat−1 h−1 at −100 mA). More unexpectedly, the in situ generated H2O2 exhibits a unique advantage over commercial products, selectively oxidizing cinnamaldehyde to benzaldehyde by modulating the practical current.
Intelligent Screening of Prostate Cancer Individuals Using an Enzyme‐Assisted Multicolor Visualization Platform
Authors: Teng Ruomei , Li Ming , Chen Zikang , Lin Jianli , Zhang Yuhan , Li Hang , Yan Zejun , Zhang Dingyuan , Ding Caiping , Huang Youju
Published: November 2024

Rapid and intelligent identification of prostate cancer (PCa) is critical for early diagnosis. Herein, a convenient, reliable, and intelligent strategy is proposed to screen PCa individuals through indirectly quantifying sarcosine (Sar), an early indicator of PCa, in clinical urine samples. Success is achieved by integrating sarcosine oxidase (SOX) as a specific recognition unit; nanozyme‐assisted multicolor intelligent visualization platform as a signal reporter. With the Fe‐MOFs and peroxidase, the synergetic action of SOX and response gold nanorods (Au NRs) is controlled etched to exhibit a multicolored signal. The sensor exhibits excellent linearity with Sar within 1–60 × 10−6 m, boasting a remarkable detection limit of 0.12 × 10−6 m. The RGB value of the display color can be directly extracted using a mobile phone camera. PCa diagnosis can be swiftly made (within 15 min) and directly by identifying two RGB colors (R < 175 or B > 135). The enzyme‐assisted multicolor intelligent visualization platform is adept at detecting minute differences in Sar concentration in urine samples between PCa patients and healthy individuals. The concept of enzyme‐assisted multicolor sensing can be further expanded by modifying the type of immobilized enzymes, providing a valuable guideline for the rational design of multiple probes to measure specific biomarkers in biological samples.
1,8‐Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene as Cyclic Ether Electrolyte Polymerization Inhibition for Wide‐Temperature‐Range High‐Rate Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Tian Hui , Hong Zixin , Fang Zhenhan , Luo Yufeng , Wu Hengcai , Zhao Fei , Li Qunqing , Fan Shoushan , Wang Jiaping
Published: November 2024

1,3‐Dioxolane (DOL), with its broad liquid phase temperature window and low Li+‐solvent binding energy, stands out as an ideal solvent candidate for the wide‐temperature and high‐rate electrolytes. Unfortunately, DOL is susceptible to undergo ring‐opening polymerization under common lithium salts, which markedly retards the reaction kinetics. This work introduces the organic basic additive 1,8‐Diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec‐7‐ene (DBU) to effectively suppress the polymerization, thus achieving compatibility between LiFSI, LiDFOB lithium salts, and DOL. Furthermore, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are utilized to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of DOL polymerization and to clarify how DBU inhibits its polymerization. The resulting electrolyte, devoid of polymer chain formation, forms a weak solvation structure rich in anions, which demonstrates rapid ion transport kinetics in the bulk electrolyte and excellent electrochemical stability at the electrolyte–electrode interfaces (EEIs) simultaneously. When applied to the LiFePO4||graphite full cell, it exhibits exceptional wide‐temperature and high‐rate performance, with specific capacities reaching 101.2 mAh g −1 at room temperature (20 C), 36.9 mAh g−1 at −40 °C (0.5 C), and 118.0 mAh g−1 at 60 °C (20 C). This study significantly guides the development of wide‐temperature, high‐rate electrolytes.
The Antipsychotic Drug Aripiprazole Suppresses Colorectal Cancer by Targeting LAMP2a to Induce RNH1/miR‐99a/mTOR‐Mediated Autophagy and Apoptosis
Authors: Hu Hui‐Fang , Fu Jia‐Ying , Han Lei , Gao Gui‐Bin , Zhang Wei‐Xia , Yu Si‐Ming , Li Nan , Li Yang‐Jia , Lu Yi‐Fan , Ding Xiao‐Feng , Pan Yun‐Long , Wang Yang , He Qing‐Yu
Published: November 2024

The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is a critical signaling hub for sustaining cancer survival. Targeting mTOR and inducing autophagic cell death downstream of it represent promising therapeutic strategies for cancer prevention. A US Food and Drug Administration‐approved drug library containing 616 small molecules is used to screen anticancer drugs against colorectal cancer (CRC) cells that rely on mTOR. This led to the identification of an antipsychotic drug aripiprazole, which significantly induced mTOR inhibition and autophagic apoptosis in CRC, in vitro and in vivo. The use of drug affinity response target stability identified lysosome‐associated membrane protein 2A (LAMP2a) as a direct target of aripiprazole. LAMP2a‐deficient CRC cells are refractory to aripiprazole. High LAMP2a expression is associated with poor survival of patients with CRC and negatively correlated with expression of ribonuclease inhibitor 1 (RNH1), which is later confirmed as a novel substrate of LAMP2a. Mechanistically, aripiprazole bound to the Lys401–His404 of LAMP2a and repressed its activity, subsequently inactivating RNH1/miR‐99a/mTOR signaling and inducing autophagy‐mediated apoptosis, thereby suppressing tumorigenesis. Liposome‐mediated delivery of aripiprazole in combination with fluorouracil elicited superior therapeutic benefits in CRC, as compared to single treatments, thereby highlighting that aripiprazole may be repurposed as a novel therapeutic agent for CRC treatment.
Electric Field Cycling of Physisorbed Antibodies Reduces Biolayer Polarization Dispersion
Authors: Di Franco Cinzia , Macchia Eleonora , Catacchio Michele , Caputo Mariapia , Scandurra Cecilia , Sarcina Lucia , Bollella Paolo , Tricase Angelo , Innocenti Massimo , Funari Riccardo , Piscitelli Matteo , Scamarcio Gaetano , Torsi Luisa
Published: November 2024

The electric dipoles of proteins in a biolayer determine their dielectric properties through the polarization density P. Hence, its reproducibility is crucial for applications, particularly in bioelectronics. Biolayers encompassing capturing antibodies covalently bound at a biosensing interface are generally preferred for their assumed higher stability. However, surface physisorption is shown to offer advantages like easily scalable fabrication processes and high stability. The present study investigates the effects of electric‐field (EF)‐cycling of anti‐Immunoglobulin M (anti‐IgM) biolayers physisorbed on Au. The impact of EF‐cycling on the dielectric, optical, and mechanical properties of anti‐IgM biolayer is investigated. A reduction of the dispersion (standard deviation over a set of 31 samples) of the measured P values is observed, while the set median stays almost constant. Hence, physisorption combined with EF cycling, results in a biolayer with highly reproducible bioelectronic properties. Additionally, the study provides important insights into the mechanisms of dielectric rearrangement of dipole moments in capturing biolayers after EF‐cycling. Notably, EF‐cycling acts as an annealing process, driving the proteins in the biolayer into a statistically more probable and stable conformational state. Understanding these phenomena enhances the knowledge of the properties of physisorbed biolayers and can inform design strategies for bioelectronic devices.
Association Between Employment Factors and Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease in US Law Enforcement Workers: The National Health Interview Survey, 2006–2018
Authors: Abasilim Chibuzor , Shannon Brett , Ogungbe Oluwabunmi , McCoy Katherine E. , Forst Linda , Friedman Lee S.
Published: November 2024

Background

Law enforcement workers face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), however, employment factors impacting CVD remain systematically understudied, particularly in a national US sample. We describe temporal trends in prevalent CVD including coronary heart disease (CHD), angina, myocardial infarction (MI) and other heart disease; and investigate associations of select employment factors with CVD among law enforcement workers using the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) from 2006 to 2018.

Methods

We analyzed prevalent CVD in law enforcement workers employed in local, state, and federal establishments using the NHIS, a nationally representative sample of US workers. We estimated odds ratios (OR [95% confidence interval, CI]) of CVD in relation to employment factors using survey‐weighted multivariable logistic regression models adjusted for sociodemographic and traditional CVD risk factors.

Results

Among 2177 law enforcement workers, mean age 46 years, 19% female, prevalence of CVD was higher among disabled (OR = 5.37; 95% CI: 2.53, 11.38 for aggregate CVD outcome) and retired (OR = 2.14; 95% CI: 1.18, 3.88 for aggregate CVD outcome) workers compared to currently employed workers. Workers employed in smaller (1–24 employees) or larger (≥ 500 employees) departments and those with tenure > 20 years also demonstrated higher prevalence odds of select CVD outcomes. Although not statistically significant, higher prevalence odds across CVD outcomes were observed in local government employees, hourly paid workers, and workers with 10–19 years of tenure.

Conclusions

Our study highlights that select employment factors, some previously underexplored, may be associated with prevalent CVD in law enforcement workers. Leveraging national surveys and worker cohorts to enhance surveillance of identified groups in this high‐risk population could help elucidate the role of employment on CVD development and inform workplace interventions.
Improving Reproductive Success in Captive Marmosets Through Active Female Choice
Authors: Drazan Taylor M. , Bradley Sean P. , Jones Aikeen M. , Allen‐Worthington Krystal H. , Chudasama Yogita
Published: November 2024

The recent upsurge in the use of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus) as a desirable model for high‐priority biomedical research has challenged local and global suppliers struggling to provide sufficient numbers of marmosets for large‐scale projects. In laboratories, random male‐female pairings are often unsuccessful, with intervals of several months before attempting alternate pairings. Here we address this challenge through a behavioral task that promotes self‐directed female selection of potential mates to increase the efficiency of breeding in captive marmosets. We created a partner preference test in which nulliparous females (n = 12) had the opportunity to select between two eligible males (n = 23) at a time, in a forced choice test. In this test, both males and females displayed sexual solicitations. However, the females displayed a clear preference for one male by directing affiliative behaviors toward him including proceptive tongue‐flicking, approach, and grooming. Her preference remained consistent across three consecutive test sessions. This method resulted in a 2.5‐fold improvement in breeding success within 90 days compared to random pairings. This cost‐effective and straightforward pairing practice can be used to enhance breeding efficiency in both small and large marmoset colonies.
And Baby Makes Three: Postpartum Changes in Male–Female Affiliative Interactions in White‐Faced Capuchins
Authors: Jack Katharine M. , Kulick Nelle K. , Schoof Valérie A.M. , Wikberg Eva C. , Kawamura Shoji , Fedigan Linda M.
Published: November 2024

In group‐living primates, male investment in infants is highly variable. Previous research on polygynandrous primates found that male care of infants, whether direct or indirect, may be a means to increase offspring survival, increase social status, invest in future mating opportunities, and/or invest in future social or coalition partners, any of which may increase fitness outcomes. Relationships between male white‐faced capuchins (Cebus imitator) and infants are highly variable, ranging from neutral to highly affiliative during periods of group stability to lethal during times of instability. We used genetic paternity analysis and behavioral observations to investigate the impact of paternity status, female dominance rank, male dominance rank, and infant sex on changes in rates of affiliation (contact and proximity) between capuchin males and females following the birth of an infant (n = 92 dyads). We used generalized linear mixed models and an information theory approach to select models for averaging. We found that overall rates of male‐female affiliation increased following the birth of an infant (contact change: +1.09 ± 2.55%; proximity change: +1.16 ± 3.08%). Infant sex was the only significant explanatory variable; dyads that included males and females who gave birth to male infants experienced a significant increase in their time in contact and proximity in comparison to dyads with females who gave birth to female infants (contact change: p < 0.05 in 2/3 models; proximity change: p < 0.001 in 3/3 models). These findings add to previous data indicating that male capuchins do not recognize their offspring or have the motivation to preferentially invest in their care. We suggest that the observed sex bias may be a form of sex‐specific socialization connected to the importance of forming long‐term cooperative male bonds that are maintained via male parallel dispersal in this species.
Polyoxometalate Confined Synthesis of BiVO4 Nanocluster for Urea Production with Remarkable O2/N2 Tolerance
Authors: Yao Shuang , Jiang Shi‐Yi , Wang Bai‐Fan , Yin Hua‐Qing , Xiang Xue‐Yan , Tang Zhao , An Chang‐Hua , Lu Tong‐Bu , Zhang Zhi‐Ming
Published: November 2024

Urea electrosynthesis from flue gas and NO3− under operating conditions represents a promising alternative technology to traditional energy‐intensive industrial process. Herein, we explore a polyoxometalate confined synthesis strategy to prepare ultrafine BiVO4 nanocluster by pre‐incorporating [V10O28]6− into NH2‐MIL‐101‐Al (MIL) framework. The resulting BiVO4@MIL‐n can efficiently drive co‐reduction of NO3− and CO2 to urea. A record urea yield of 63.4 mmol h−1 gcat−1 was achieved under CO2/O2 mixed gases (33 % O2) atmosphere, and comparable performance can be obtained by feeding flue gas, demonstrating remarkable O2/N2 tolerance and potential feasibility for urea production under operating conditions. Systematic investigations revealed that MIL carrier with ‐NH2 group can enrich CO2, and BiVO4 nanocluster can reduce both NO3− and CO2 to ensure efficient urea synthesis even in the presence of O2. This work demonstrates the key role of in situ growth of BiVO4 nanocluster within a NH2‐framework in facilitating urea electrosynthesis with exceptional tolerance to O2/N2.
Fluorierte Squareimine zur molekularen Trennung von aromatischen und aliphatischen Verbindungen
Authors: Pausch Tobias , Clopot Samanta , Jordan Dustin N. , Weingart Oliver , Janiak Christoph , Schmidt Bernd M.
Published: November 2024

Die Entwicklung energieeffizienterer Trenntechnologien ist von entscheidender Bedeutung. Insbesondere die Trennung von cyclischen aliphatischen Kohlenwasserstoffen von ihren aromatischen Gegenstücken bleibt aufgrund der Bildung von Azeotropen und ähnlicher physikalischer Eigenschaften eine große Herausforderung, die oft energieintensive Prozesse erfordert. Hier stellen wir eine neue Klasse von elektronenarmen Makrocyclen mit einer einzigartigen rechteckigen Struktur vor, um Interaktionen innerhalb der Poren zu optimieren, wodurch eine hochselektive molekulare Abtrennung aromatischer Verbindungen aus diesen Mischungen ermöglicht wird. Durch die Nutzung dynamisch‐kovalenter Iminchemie wird das auf Squareimin NDI2F42‐basierende kristalline Material direkt in hoher Ausbeute (83 %) aus der Reaktionsmischung erhalten. Analog wird das größere Kongener NDI2F82 mit einer Ausbeute von 69 % gewonnen. In Dampfsorptions‐ und Diffusionsexperimenten zeigt NDI2F42 schnelle Adsorptionskinetiken mit einer Selektivität von 97 : 3 für Benzol gegenüber Cyclohexan und 93 : 7 für Toluol gegenüber Methylcyclohexan, während Röntgenstrukturanalysen an Einzelkristallen und Pulvern darauf hindeuten, dass die Selektivität hauptsächlich durch gerichtete Wechselwirkungen zwischen den elektronenarmen Paneelen und den aromatischen Gästen bestimmt wird.
Fluorinated Squareimines for Molecular Sieving of Aromatic over Aliphatic Compounds
Authors: Pausch Tobias , Clopot Samanta , Jordan Dustin N. , Weingart Oliver , Janiak Christoph , Schmidt Bernd M.
Published: November 2024

The development of more energy‐efficient separation technologies is essential. Especially the separation of cyclic aliphatic hydrocarbons from their aromatic counterparts remains a significant challenge due to azeotrope formation and similar physical properties, often requiring energy‐intensive processes. Herein, we introduce a novel class of electron‐deficient macrocycles with a unique rectangular structure to optimise interactions within the pore, enabling the highly selective molecular sieving of aromatic compounds from mixtures. Utilising dynamic covalent imine chemistry, the squareimine NDI2F42‐based crystalline functional material is directly obtained from the reaction mixture in a single self‐assembly step in high yields of 83 %, alongside the larger NDI2F82 congener, which can be obtained in 69 % yield. In vapour sorption and diffusion experiments, NDI2F42 demonstrates rapid adsorption kinetics with selectivities of 97 : 3 for benzene over cyclohexane and 93 : 7 for toluene over methylcyclohexane, while single‐crystal and powder X‐ray diffraction studies indicate that the selectivity is primarily governed by directed interactions between the electron‐deficient panels and aromatic guests.
Properties of thermoplastic polyurethane synthesized from bio‐based diisocyanate for FDM 3D printing
Authors: Rahman MD Ashikur , Prasad Cheera , Mahadi Naiem , Rao A. Karteek , Choi Soon Mo , Choi Hyeong Yeol , Shin Eun Joo
Published: November 2024

Bio‐based polymeric materials have recently gained popularity due to their unique properties, including environmental friendliness, biodegradability, and sustainability. In this study, the bio‐based TPUs were successfully synthesized by one‐shot polymerization method, utilizing 100% bio‐based polytrimethylene ether glycol (PO3G) as polyols, 71% bio‐based 1,5‐pentamethylene diisocyanate (PDI) as isocyanates, and 100% bio‐based 1,4‐butanediol BDO as chain extenders. The as‐prepared TPUs, which contained up to 92% bio‐based material were investigated using a variety of analytical methods, including morphological investigations, mechanical testing, thermal analysis, rheological behavior, docking analysis, and cytotoxicity studies. For PPB 3 (1:3:2), PPB 4 (1:4:3), PPB 5 (1:5:4), and PPB 7 (1:7:6), the initial modulus values were 78, 151, 194, and 314 GPa, and the shore‐A hardness values were 92, 93, 93, and 94. Additionally, a notable variation in the degree of phase separation (DPS) of 0.575, 0.647, 0.716, and, 0.738 between hard segment (HS) and soft segment (SS) was noticed among synthesized bio‐based TPUs and an increase in DPS with higher molar ratios corresponded to a higher content of HS. Besides, the bio‐based TPU proved outstanding cell viability results, representing its potential appropriateness for various biomedical applications. Eventually, docking simulations were shown in silico to evaluate the interaction of bio‐based TPU with the DNA gyrase enzyme. Furthermore, the results of bio‐based TPUs demonstrated excellent applications in the production of 3D printing using FDM. We effectively prepared 3D printing to provide a viable answer to environmental concerns.
PEDOT:PSS Electropolymerization Protocol for Microelectrodes Enabling Low‐Cost Impedance‐Based Cellular Assays
Authors: Kauth Andrea , Wegener Joachim , Jiang Huijie , Pachauri Vivek , Ingebrandt Sven
Published: November 2024

Electric cell‐substrate impedance sensing (ECIS) is a label‐free method for in vitro cell analysis in different research fields such as virology, cancer research, and stem cell research. In the ECIS configuration, the working electrode (WE) is typically much smaller than the counter electrode, thus the measured impedance between both is mainly dominated by the impedance of the WE. However, if the impedance of the WE is too high, it is challenging to detect small changes in impedance caused by cells attached to the electrode surface. In this study, we present an easily reproducible and cost‐effective method to lower the impedance of commercial ECIS electrodes, and by this increase the cell contribution in adhesion assays. Hereby we deposit a thin layer of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) only onto the gold electrodes by electropolymerization and study the layer characteristics in detail. We compare cell‐free and cell‐covered impedance spectra of gold and PEDOT:PSS electrodes recorded with a low‐cost potentiostat and analyze the ECIS spectra of two different cell lines in detail.
Harbour Porpoise Bycatch: Determining Spatial Distribution of Risk to Inform Management Measures
Authors: Irvine Hope E. , Pinn Eunice H. , Smith I. Philip , Lart William
Published: November 2024

Bycatch in static nets (i.e., gillnets, trammel nets and tangle nets) has been identified as the leading cause of harbour porpoise mortality globally. Various options are available for mitigating and managing this risk. However, selecting the most effective management measures to balance harbour porpoise conservation needs with sustainable fishing practice is challenging. By understanding the spatial variation of bycatch risk, it is possible to tailor mitigation and management options for a specific localised area or region. This study identified areas of potential interaction between harbour porpoise and static net fishing activity. An interaction index, a measure of the coincidence of porpoise and fishing activity, was developed. Using this approach, it was possible to differentiate between areas that potentially represented concentrations of higher bycatch risk and other areas with a lower but more widespread level of risk. For the Irish and Celtic Seas, an area recognised as having the highest harbour porpoise bycatch rate in European waters, there was a low to moderate interaction index, with the risk spread over a relatively large area. In the North Sea, in contrast, high values of the interaction index occurred in smaller areas, indicating that bycatch risk was more concentrated in this region. With the exception of some coastal areas, the interaction index was generally low for the West of Scotland and Ireland region. The identification of potential areas of interaction between harbour porpoise and static net fishing provides an opportunity to focus monitoring efforts and inform management decisions. For example, the use of area‐based management encompassing small areas may be appropriate when spatially concentrated risk of bycatch is evidenced, whereas the use of technical measures, such as pingers, could be considered for areas with widespread lower risk of bycatch.
Fruit Extract Mediated Formation of Luminescent Titanium Dioxide Nanometer‐Sized Particles: An Innovative Strategy in Domain of Photodecomposition and Germicidal Properties
Authors: Monikadevi G. , Vijayakumar S. , Vanathi P. , Prathipkumar S. , Al‐Sadoon Mohammad Khalid , Srinivasan P. , Vidhya E.
Published: November 2024

Discoveries in nanotechnologies are placing a great deal of attention on greener strategies that use harmless substances and moderated reactions to promote healthy development. This work used a straightforward, innovative, and cost‐effective sustainable approach to produce bio‐augmented TiO2 nanometer‐sized particles (NMSP) by applying a water‐based extract of the star fruit as a stabilization and reduction agent. A variety of techniques, comprising UV–Vis, XRD, FT‐IR, FE‐SEM with EDAX, and TEM, have been employed to investigate the formed TiO2 NMSP. The germicidal properties of formed TiO2 NMSP towards germs have been investigated by implementing an agar‐based pore plate technique. Congo red and methylene blue dyes have been applied to assess photodecomposition activity. The TiO2 NMSP exhibited significant germicidal efficacy versus many pathogenic microbes. The maximum degradation percentages of Congo red and methylene blue were 89.2% and 83.7%, achieved after 60 and 70 min, respectively. Consequently, it is determined that the selected NMSP composition enhanced germicidal and photodecomposition capabilities. The combined effort may serve as an effective method for eliminating color degradation concerning effluent and could potentially be employed in the field of medicine to address antibiotic resistance.
Genome‐Scale Modeling of CHO Cells Unravel the Critical Role of Asparagine in Cell Culture Feed Media
Authors: Pang Kuin Tian , Hong Yi Fan , Shozui Fumi , Furomitsu Shunpei , Myint Matthew , Ho Ying Swan , Silberberg Yaron R. , Walsh Ian , Lakshmanan Meiyappan
Published: November 2024

Amino acids, including asparagine, aspartate, glutamine, and glutamate, play important roles in purine and pyrimidine biosynthesis as well as serve as anaplerotic sources fueling the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle for mitochondrial energy generation. Despite extensive studies on glutamine and glutamate in CHO cell cultures, the roles of asparagine and aspartate, especially in feed media, remain underexplored. In this study, we utilized a CHO genome scale model to first deeply characterize the intracellular metabolic states of CHO cells cultured in different combinations of basal and feed media to understand the traits of asparagine/aspartate‐dependent and glutamate‐dependent feeds. Subsequently, we identified the critical role of asparagine and aspartate in the feed media as anaplerotic sources and conducted in silico simulations to ascertain their optimal ratios to improve cell culture performance. Finally, based on the model simulations, we reformulated the feed media by tailoring the concentrations of asparagine and aspartate. Our experimental data reveal a CHO cell preference for asparagine compared with aspartate, and thus maintaining an optimal ratio of these amino acids is a key factor for achieving optimal CHO cell culture performance in biopharmaceutical production.
An Experimental and Modeling Approach to Study Tangential Flow Filtration Performance for mRNA Drug Substance Purification
Authors: Nourafkan Ehsan , Kenyon Charlotte , Nair Adithya , Loveday Kate A. , Welbourne Emma N. , Tao Min , Ahmed Mahdi , Middleton Joseph , Dickman Mark J. , Brown Solomon F. , Maamra Mabrouka , Cordiner Joan , Kis Zoltán
Published: November 2024

Following the recent COVID‐19 pandemic, mRNA manufacturing processes are being actively developed and optimized to produce the next generation of mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. Herein, the performance of the tangential flow filtration (TFF) was evaluated for high‐recovery, and high‐purity separation of mRNA from unreacted nucleoside triphosphates (NTPs) from the in vitro transcription (IVT) reaction mixture. For the first time, the fouling model was successfully validated with TFF experimental data to describe the adsorption of mRNA on filtration membrane. The fouling model enables monitoring of the mRNA purification processes, designing an appropriate strategy for filter clean‐up, replacing the column at the right time and reducing the process cost. Recovery greater than 70% mRNA without degradation was obtained by implementing a capacity load of ∼19 g/m2, <2.5 psi transmembrane pressure (TMP) and feed flux of 300 LMH. This approach also enables the purification of multiple mRNA drug substance sequences for the treatment of a wide range of different diseases.