bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable Semiconducting BaS3:Sb2S3:LaS2 Filiform Rods: Revolutionizing Energy Storage and Production With Mixed Metal Chalcogenides
Authors: Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Jaffri Shaan Bibi , Makawana Bhumikaben , Gupta Ram K. , Ashraf Ghulam Abbas , Altaf Mohammad
Published: November 2024

During this period of rising energy demand, scientific circles and energy stakeholders have paid close attention to electrochemical energy storage. In order to improve the functioning of charge storage systems, the BaS3:Sb2S3:LaS2 tri‐chalcogenide is produced with a diethyldithiocarbamate ligand as a chelator. The BaS3:Sb2S3:LaS2 semiconductor, which was produced sustainably, has a 3.65‐eV energy band gap and high photoactivity due to light absorption. Having heterogeneous crystalline states and a mean crystallite dimension of 17.58 nm, the resulting chalcogenide had excellent crystallinity. In addition, infrared spectroscopy was utilized to analyze metallic sulfide associations, and the results showed that they ranged from 550 to 951 cm−1. This chalcogenide expressed filiform rod‐like morphology with an abundance of the sites available for electrochemical activity. The electrochemical performance of BaS3:Sb2S3:LaS2 was assessed with a conventional three‐electrode configuration. BaS3:Sb2S3:LaS2 has been shown to have been a superior substance for electrodes for storing electricity, with a power density of 7910.18 W kg−1 with a particular capacitance of as high as 961.39 F g−1. The exceptional electrochemical performance was supported with a comparable series resistance (Rs) at 0.71 Ω. Following electrocatalysis, the electrode exhibited an OER overpotential and an equivalent Tafel slope of approximately 416 mV and 126 mV/dec, respectively. Conversely, the Tafel slope and overpotential of the HER activity were 117 mV/dec and 233 mV, respectively.
Solvent‐free synthesis of medium chain triacylglycerols by esterification of capric, caprylic acids with 1, 3‐specific and non‐specific lipases
Authors: Mayookha V. P. , Raksha U. , Harohally Nanishankar V. , Suresh Kumar G.
Published: November 2024

Medium chain triacylglycerols (MCTs) are used as a functional oil in various food and pharmaceutical formulations because of their numerous health benefits and physical properties. Enzymatic esterification of glycerol with caprylic (C8:0) and capric acids (C10:0) in a molar ratio of 1:3.5 [50% (C8:0) and 50% (C10:0)] was carried out for the solvent free synthesis of MCTs using 5% (w/w) 1,3 specific lipase, Lipozyme RM IM and non‐specific lipase, Novozym 435 in the presence of molecular sieves (10%) and low pressure conditions (50 and 150 mbar) at 50°C. Novozym 435 was more effective in the esterification reaction under 50 mbar reduced pressure, achieving ~54.74% triacylglycerol formation in 6 h, compared to Lipozyme RMIM, which achieved ~31.25% under the same conditions. Further reactions with Novozym 435 for 24 h showed that the maximum formation of MCTs occurred at 20 h (86.46 ± 3%), after which the reaction reached equilibrium. When 50 mbar was used, the formation of triacylglycerols enhanced 13 times compared with the results obtained at atmospheric pressure condition. Chemical characterization of the final MCTs confirmed the formation of four triacylglycerol species (TAG (8:0/8:0/8:0), TAG (8:0/8:0/10:0), TAG (8:0/10:0/10:0), and TAG (10:0/10:0/10:0) with LC–MS and NMR analysis. The melting and crystallization points of the synthesized oil was found to be −3.47°C and −23.48°C, respectively. Our findings contribute to developing a green process for synthesizing MCTs using two different fatty acids. The final product can be used as a nutraceutical oil or as an ingredient to enhance the food's physical properties.
Interfacial adhesion enhancement in high‐modulus carbon fiber/poly (ether ether ketone) composites: Through the flexible macromolecule‐grafted‐carbon nanotubes sizing treatment
Authors: Su Yanan , Qi Ruitao , Zhao Chenyue , Bai Lili , Zheng Kaihong , Zhao Ziyang , Li Zhiqiang , Xu Jifeng
Published: November 2024

In this study, a flexible macromolecule‐grafted‐carbon nanotube (t‐CTN‐SPEEK) is developed and utilized as bridge to enhance the interfacial properties of high‐modulus carbon fiber (HM‐CF) reinforced poly (ether ether ketone) (PEEK) composites. With t‐CTN‐SPEEK sizing, the wettability of HM‐CF is enhanced, thereby promoting better resin wetting. The increased roughness induced by the t‐CTNs‐SPEEK on the surface of the HM‐CF affords improved mechanical interlocking among interface. Additionally, SPEEK enhances the interfacial compatibility of the composites. Thus, after the t‐CTN‐SPEEK sizing treatment, the composite exhibits the best interfacial shear strength (IFSS), as evaluated using the interfacial strength evaluation instrument. This paper also discusses in detail the interfacial strengthening mechanism after sizing and presents a promising approach to enhancing the interfacial properties of HM‐CF composites.
Synthesis and antitumor evaluation of glycyrrhetinic acid‐dithiocarbamate hybrids
Authors: Su Jiahong , Wang Xingyue , Li Sha , Wu Xu , Li Mingxing , Du Fukuan , Deng Shuai , Shen Jing , Zhao Yueshui , Xiao Zhangang , Chen Yu
Published: November 2024

Glycyrrhetinic acid (GA) is a naturally occurring triterpene compound. The aim of this study was to employ the pharmacophore hybrid strategy to merge GA with various dithiocarbamates and obtain novel compounds with better antitumor activities. We present a two‐step synthetic protocol wherein the GA derivative underwent reaction with carbon disulfide and various secondary amines in a one‐pot manner under mild conditions, facilitating the preparation of a series of structurally novel GA‐dithiocarbamate derivatives. Bioassay screening revealed that the representative compound 3c demonstrated the capacity to reduce the mitochondrial membrane potential in Hep3B and Huh‐7 cells, induce nuclear apoptosis, inhibit invasion and migration, and prompt both early and late apoptosis. Furthermore, our research findings indicated that this apoptotic phenomenon may be associated with the expression of Bcl‐2, Bax, Bak, PARP, and cleaved‐PARP proteins. Utilizing network pharmacology for predicting core targets and signaling pathways of compound 3c for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment involved employing molecular docking models to demonstrate high affinity between compound and target protein. In conjunction with Western blot analysis, compound 3c may impact HCC through the PI3K‐AKT‐mTOR pathway.
Antiviral efficacy of heparan sulfate and enoxaparin sodium against SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Fuochi Virginia , Furnari Salvatore , Floresta Giuseppe , Patamia Vincenzo , Zagni Chiara , Drago Filippo , Rescifina Antonio , Furneri Pio Maria
Published: November 2024

As the world transitions from the acute phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic caused by SARS‐CoV‐2, the scientific community continues to explore various therapeutic avenues to control its spread and mitigate its ongoing effects. Among the promising candidates are heparan sulfate (HS) and enoxaparin (EX), which have emerged as potential virus inhibitors. HS, a type of glycosaminoglycan, plays a prominent role in the attachment of the virus to host cells. At the same time, EX, a low‐molecular‐weight heparin, is being investigated for its ability to disrupt the interaction between the spike protein of SARS‐CoV‐2 and the ACE2 receptor in human cells. Understanding the mechanisms through which these substances operate could lay the foundation for new strategies in the ongoing management of COVID‐19. This study aimed to examine the details of SARS‐CoV‐2's entry mechanisms and the role of HS in this process. Furthermore, it examines EX's mechanism of action, highlighting how it potentially inhibits SARS‐CoV‐2. The interactions between HS and the virus, alongside in‐vitro and in‐silico inhibition studies with HS and EX, are critically analyzed to assess their antiviral efficacy. Additionally, the antiviral activity of sulfated polysaccharides and the potential therapeutic applications of these findings are discussed.
Manganese‐Mediated Cascade Radical Oxidative Cyclization/1,6‐Conjugate Addition of Unsaturated Oximes with p‐Quinone Methides: Facile Access to β,β‐Diarylmethine Substituted Isoxazolines
Authors: Vara Vijay , Thete Kishor R. , Ghotekar Ganesh S. , Muthukrishnan M.
Published: November 2024

A simple and efficient strategy for the synthesis of structurally diverse β,β‐diarylmethine substituted isoxazoline derivatives have been developed. This approach employs a manganese‐promoted oxidative cyclization coupled with a 1,6‐conjugate addition of unsaturated oximes to p‐quinone methides. The key features of this study include the formation of C−O and C−C bonds through intramolecular and intermolecular interactions, facilitated by in situ generated iminoxyl radicals. β,β‐diarylmethine substituted isoxazolines, bearing a wide range of functional groups, were isolated in high yields.
From the genome's perspective: Bearing somatic retrotransposition to leverage the regulatory potential of L1 RNAs
Authors: Mangoni Damiano , Mazzetti Aurora , Ansaloni Federico , Simi Alessandro , Tartaglia Gian Gaetano , Pandolfini Luca , Gustincich Stefano , Sanges Remo
Published: November 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) are mobile genomic elements constituting a big fraction of eukaryotic genomes. They ignite an evolutionary arms race with host genomes, which in turn evolve strategies to restrict their activity. Despite being tightly repressed, TEs display precisely regulated expression patterns during specific stages of mammalian development, suggesting potential benefits for the host. Among TEs, the long interspersed nuclear element (LINE‐1 or L1) has been found to be active in neurons. This activity prompted extensive research into its possible role in cognition. So far, no specific cause‐effect relationship between L1 retrotransposition and brain functions has been conclusively identified. Nevertheless, accumulating evidence suggests that interactions between L1 RNAs and RNA/DNA binding proteins encode specific messages that cells utilize to activate or repress entire transcriptional programs. We summarize recent findings highlighting the activity of L1 RNAs at the non‐coding level during early embryonic and brain development. We propose a hypothesis suggesting a mutualistic relationship between L1 mRNAs and the host cell. In this scenario, cells tolerate a certain rate of retrotransposition to leverage the regulatory effects of L1s as non‐coding RNAs on potentiating their mitotic potential. In turn, L1s benefit from the cell's proliferative state to increase their chance to mobilize.
Cinemeducation improves early clinical exposure to inborn errors of metabolism
Authors: Dutta Atanu , Oberoi Aroma , Modi Jyoti , Goyal Parmod , Samuel Sangeetha , Mondal Tanushree , Goswami Kalyan , Sahoo Sibasish , Pal Amit
Published: November 2024

Cinemeducation is an effective tool to help students develop humanistic skills. However, there was a need for more studies to find out if this can also be utilized to improve the interest and satisfaction of students learning about rare diseases such as the inborn errors of metabolism. The aim was to introduce cinemeducation as part of early clinical exposure and teach first‐year MBBS students in the Department of Biochemistry about inborn errors of metabolism. This was a quasi‐experimental, cross‐over study involving 100 MBBS students. Movie clips prepared from Lorenzo's Oil (for Lipid metabolism) and Extraordinary Measures (for Lysosomal Storage Disease) and corresponding paper‐based cases; questionnaires and feedback forms were validated by expert group review. Students' academic performance was improved in the groups where the Extraordinary Measures movie was used for cinemeducation. Still, this effect was not observed when the movie Lorenzo's Oil was used. Both learners and facilitators were satisfied with cinemeducation. Cinemeducation was effectively introduced to teach inborn errors of metabolism in the Department of Biochemistry topic‐dependent manner.
The influence of complexity, uncertainty, and munificence on long‐term organizational resilience to natural disasters
Authors: Gasbarro Federica , Tencati Antonio
Published: November 2024

The turbulent conditions of the external environment have placed unprecedented pressure on firms, drawing management scholars' attention to organizational resilience. This research aims to study if complexity, uncertainty, and munificence influence organizational resilience in terms of long‐term firm survival. We performed a binary logistic regression using a database of 1,849 Italian joint‐stock firms between 2014 and 2020, of which 89 received public funds as compensation for damages caused by natural disasters. We found that munificence in the context where firms operate is likely to increase their survival in the long term compared to the peers together with turnover, however, context complexity and uncertainty have not been found significant. The results shed light on the role of the context as an antecedent of organizational resilience.
Impact of basic artificial intelligence (AI) course on understanding concepts, literacy, and empowerment in the field of AI among students
Authors: Chen Yan Hua , Zhang Kai
Published: November 2024

With the development of information technologies and information processing methods, it is important to provide high‐quality education in the field of artificial intelligence (AI). The study aims to investigate the impact of an educational course on AI on the comprehension of concepts, literacy, and empowerment in the field of AI among students of higher educational institutions. The experiment involved 125 students from Hohai University in China. As a result of taking the training course, students were able to improve their understanding of concepts (increasing their average score from 6.33 to 9.69), literacy (from 2.94 to 3.99), and empowerment (from 3.90 to 4.04) in AI. The resulting data statistically confirmed the effectiveness of the developed course for improving confidence in the field of AI. The training module can be applied to improve confidence in the field of AI for students in various careers, as information competence is important these days and increases the success of graduates in employment. When it comes to further research, the encouraging results of this study suggest opportunities for promoting this training program among a diverse group of participants. To confirm the effectiveness of the developed course, it can be conducted among students in schools and other educational institutions, reducing it to even more basic if necessary.
‘Thanks, but no thanks’: The public's response to engagement with NHS Talking Therapies – a salutary tale?
Authors: Scott Michael J.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The English NHS Talking Therapies has been hailed as a world leader in demonstrating outcomes, generating 1.76 million referrals in the year 2022–2023, with a claimed 49.9% recovery rate, but there has been a dearth of independent evaluations. Importantly, there have been no published data on those who only attended one assessment/treatment session. This also applies to public services internationally. The issue of the acceptability of psychological treatment has not been addressed.

Method

The user‐friendliness of NHS Talking Therapies was examined, drawing on unpublished data revealed following a Freedom Of Information request response to the author in June 2024. These data are set alongside the service's published data to give a more comprehensive view of real‐world outcomes and whether it should be a template for other countries to follow.

Results

Almost half (45%) do not complete treatment, and for completers, the results are no better than for placebo. The diagnostic status of almost a third (29.1%) who attend just one session is unknown. The numbers of people who attend one assessment/ treatment session is approximately half of those who attend two or more treatment sessions, but the ratio varies by disorder.

Conclusion

NHS Talking Therapies' engagement difficulties casts serious doubt on the service's claim to be a ‘world beater’. There is no evidence that NICE‐compliant evidence‐based psychological treatments have been delivered. While this model has been widely adopted in the UK, this should not be transferred to other service systems without contextualisation and evidence on whether/how some of its components could be implemented in those settings.
Involvement of PDGFR‐integrin interactions in the regulation of anoikis resistance in glioblastoma progression
Authors: Pain Pampa , Tripathi Ashutosh , Pillai Prakash P.
Published: November 2024

The interactions between platelet‐derived growth factor/PDGF receptor and integrin signaling are crucial for cells to respond to extracellular stimuli. Integrin interactions with PDGFR within the lipid rafts activate downstream cellular signaling pathways that regulate cell proliferation, cell migration, cell differentiation, and cell death processes. The mechanisms underlying PDGFR activation mediated receptor internalization, interactions with other cell‐surface receptors, particularly extracellular matrix receptors, integrins, and how these cellular mechanisms switch on anchorage‐independent cell survival, leading to anoikis resistance are discussed. The role of regulatory molecules such as noncoding RNAs, that can modulate several molecular and cellular processes, including autophagy, in the acquisition of anoikis resistance is also discussed. Overall, the review provides a new perspective on a complex interplay of regulatory cellular machineries involving autophagy, noncoding RNAs and cellular mechanisms of PDGFR activation, PDGFR‐integrin interactions, and involvement of lipids rafts in the acquisition of anoikis resistance that regulates glioblastoma progression along with potential future strategies to develop novel therapeutics for glioblastoma multiforme.
Carnosol alleviates cisplatin–induced acute kidney injury by regulating apoptosis and pyroptosis
Authors: Li Chunjie , Yang Hongyan , Wu Yuan , Zhou Mingke , Luo Hengbiao , Yuan Peng , Shen Fengge
Published: November 2024

The use of the common anticancer drug cisplatin (CP) in clinical practice often leads to acute kidney injury (AKI); however, no protective therapy is available. Therefore, new drugs that reduce the nephrotoxicity induced by CP are urgently needed. Carnosol (CA) is an antioxidant found. We investigated the renoprotective effects of CA on CP‐induced AKI in male C57BL/6 mice and HK2 cells. CA mitigated renal dysfunction, histopathological changes and tubular injury in vivo, as indicated by the expression of NGAL, KIM1 and HMGB1. Moreover, the numbers of apoptotic cells and the expression of apoptotic proteins were dramatically reduced after CA treatment in mouse kidneys and HK2 cells. CA significantly ameliorated CP‐induced inflammation and decreased TNF‐α and IL‐1β levels in vivo and in vitro and macrophage infiltration in the mouse kidney. CA decreased the expression levels of p‐p65/p65, NLRP3 and ASC, which indicates that CA suppressed the activation of the NF‐κB/NLRP3 signaling axis induced by CP in vivo and in vitro. In addition, CA decreased the levels of certain protein in pyroptotic cells, as indicated by the expression of cleaved caspase‐1, GSDMD, and mature IL‐1β and IL‐18 in vivo and in vitro. Finally, CA reduced the level of cleaved caspase‐1, but those of GSDMD and NLRP3 protein were not significantly different after treatment with the NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 and were elevated by the NLRP3 activator nigericin. In conclusion, this study revealed that CA protects against CP‐induced AKI by decreasing apoptosis and NF‐κB/NLRP3/GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis, which provides new insight into the prevention of AKI.
Duloxetine‐induced syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion in a patient with neuropathic pain
Authors: Takahashi Nobuyuki , Mori Yukiko , Momo Kenji , Murakami Hidetomo , Tanaka Hironori
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

Syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) induces hyponatremia accompanied by uric acid reduction. We report a case of a patient with small‐cell lung cancer who developed SIADH with hypouricemia after duloxetine treatment and discuss the potential underlying mechanisms. SIADH and hypouricemia improved after duloxetine was switched to mirogabalin.
Targeted Topological Routine Regulation of RuNiOx Precursors for Excellent Alkaline Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Cai Ziyan , Yang Minghao , Xu Xiaoke , Bu Xiuming , Xiao Chuqian , Yang Yikai , Yin Di , Zhang Yuxuan , Gao Wei , Ho Johnny C. , Wang Xianying
Published: November 2024

Designing efficient and stable electrocatalysts for the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER) is crucial for green hydrogen production via the water‐splitting system. The bifunctional electrocatalyst offers a promising strategy due to the simplified preparation process and reduced expenses. However, the single‐component bifunctional catalysts often struggle to match the redox potential of water and to achieve proper adsorption/desorption of Gibbs free energy for both hydrogen and oxygen intermediates simultaneously. Herein, through precisely controlling the topological transformation path of the RuNiOx precursor, we successfully prepared high‐performance RuNi/Ni and Ru/NiO heterostructure electrocatalysts for the HER and OER, respectively. The energy level matching between the fabricated electrocatalyst and water oxidation/reduction potential confirms the feasibility of HER and OER. The synergistic effect between the active sites ensures rapid intermediate adsorption/desorption kinetics. As a result, the assembled alkaline overall water splitting setup achieves a current density of 1 A cm−2 at 2 V and maintains stable operation at 100 mA cm−2 for 100 hours.
Mass Spectrometry‐Based Platforms for Protein Lipoxidation Profiling
Authors: Tang Ziming , Wang Tianyang , Liu Chunrong
Published: November 2024

Lipid peroxidation, occurring through enzymatic or non‐enzymatic processes, generates lipid‐derived electrophiles (LDEs), which can covalently modify nucleophilic amino acid residues in proteins, a process known as protein lipoxidation. This modification can alter protein structure and function, either causing damage or regulating signalling pathways. Identifying the protein targets and specific lipoxidation sites provide important clues for unveiling the oxidative stress‐related protein interaction network and molecular mechanisms of related diseases. In this review, we present a detailed overview of recent advances in protein LDE modification profiling, with a focus on mass spectrometry (MS)‐based chemoproteomic platforms for global protein lipoxidation profiling.
Comprehensive Study on Amino‐Modified Salix Wood Powder Membranes: Preparation, Adsorption Mechanism and Desorption Conditions for Efficient Chlortetracycline Removal
Authors: Liu Xiaokai , Zhao Xuan , He Hao , Zhang Jiyuan , Zhang Yuanfang , Wang Li
Published: November 2024

The wastewater of Chlortetracycline (CTC) poses a threat to the balance of aquatic ecosystems, promoting the formation and dissemination of antibiotic‐resistant bacterial strains in the aquatic environment. Moreover, such pollution can directly or indirectly affect human health through water sources, exacerbating the issue of antibiotic resistance. In response to this pollution challenge, Amino‐modified salix wood powder membrane(ASPPM) was prepared by phase transition and wet spinning techniques, aimed at removing CTC from water bodies. Adsorption experiment results show that the ASPPM maximum adsorption capacity for CTC is 459 mg/g. In the desorption process, the highest desorption rate of ASPPM for CTC was 79.65 %. By fitting pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order kinetic models, it is found that the adsorption process of ASPPM on CTC is predominantly chemical adsorption. By fitting three isotherm models, it is found that the adsorption behavior of ASPPM on CTC is more in accordance with the Freundlich isotherm model, indicating multilayer adsorption on heterogeneous surfaces. Thermodynamic analysis indicates that the adsorption process of ASPPM on CTC is spontaneous, exothermic and accompanied by an increase in entropy at different temperatures. Furthermore, ASPPM has a highly porous structure. During its preparation, the characteristic absorption peaks of −CONH and −NH2 in ASPP are preserved and the cellulose type I in ASPPM is transformed into type II, resulting in a more orderly crystal structure. The preparation of ASPPM study not only transforms renewable biomass materials into effective tools for environmental purification but also offers a cost‐effective new approach for sustainable environmental management, expanding the application of biomass materials in the field of environmental protection.
Osimertinib Efficacy and Safety in Treating Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Mutation‐Positive Advanced Non–Small‐Cell Lung Cancer: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhao Mengmeng , Zhang Jian , Gao Jie , Wang Jianping , Ma Zhenkai
Published: November 2024

This study compared the safety and efficacy of osimertinib, a third‐generation epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), with those of other TKIs and its use alongside bevacizumab in patients with EGFR mutation‐positive advanced non–small‐cell lung cancer. PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, and VIP databases were used to conduct extensive searches for relevant randomized controlled trials until January 30, 2024. Osimertinib monotherapy favored disease control rate, whereas the comparator treatment arm favored overall survival. Using subgroup analysis, the objective response rate and progression‐free survival (PFS) were significantly elevated by Osimertinib monotherapy compared with pemetrexed combined with carboplatin or cisplatin. The comparator treatment arm receiving gefitinib or erlotinib significantly favored progression‐free survival and overall survival compared with osimertinib monotherapy. In patients treated with osimertinib monotherapy, the incidence of all adverse events (AEs) decreased compared with comparator treatment arm. Anemia was the only AE associated with osimertinib monotherapy. Pemetrexed combined with carboplatin or cisplatin resulted in greater loss of appetite than osimertinib monotherapy. The most associated AE of osimertinib monotherapy was diarrhea, according to network analysis. Although its efficacy is not consistent with other EGFR TKIs, osimertinib was associated with a decrease in AEs in patients with EGFR mutation‐positive advanced non–small‐cell lung cancer.
Crown Ether–Magnesium Ion Complexes: A Reliable Theoretical Estimation of Host–Guest Interaction and Binding Energies in a Solvent
Authors: Ćeranić Katarina , Milovanović Branislav , Petković Milena
Published: November 2024

Metal ion detection is of paramount importance for health monitoring. The host should properly accommodate the desired ion and be selective with respect to other potential guests, which makes devising ion sensors a demanding task. Recently (Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys. 2023, 25, 32656), we suggested a procedure for a computational design of crown ethers that can capture magnesium ions. In the present contribution we apply the same approach to search for Mg2+ trap with thiophene units, in accord with proposed hosts for Na+ and K+ ions (Adv. Funct. Mater. 2016, 26, 514). Additionally, we present a procedure based on the combination of Density Functional Theory based Molecular Dynamics and the Interacting Quantum Fragments methodology for determination of host–guest interaction and binding energies in a model with a large number of explicit solvent molecules. The presented strategy could be applied for identification of the right host for an arbitrary guest.
ChemFET Anion Sensor Based on MOF Nanoparticles
Authors: Banning Douglas H. , Davenport Audrey M. , Lakanen Natalie M. , Huang Jiawei , Brozek Carl K. , Johnson Darren W.
Published: November 2024

Nanoparticles of metal‐organic frameworks (nanoMOFs) possess the unusual combination of both internal and external surfaces. While internal surfaces have been the focus of fundamental and applications‐based MOF studies, the chemistry of the external surfaces remains scarcely understood. Herein we report that specific ion interactions with nanoparticles of Cu(1,2,3‐triazolate)2 (Cu(TA)2) resemble the Hofmeister behavior of proteins and the supramolecular chemistry of synthetic macromolecules. Inspired by these anion‐selective interactions, we tested the performance of Cu(TA)2 nanoparticles as chemical field effect transistor (ChemFET) anion sensors. Rather than size‐based selectivity, the detection limits of the devices exhibit a Hofmeister trend, with the greatest sensitivity towards anions perchlorate, iodide, and nitrate. These results highlight the importance of the pore‐based supramolecular interactions, rather than localized donor‐acceptor pairs, in designing MOF‐based technologies.
Study identifies eight traumatic and ACEs to psychiatric risk across development
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: November 2024

There are eight TRACEs (traumatic and adverse childhood experiences) which can lead to mental health and cognitive problems during adolescents, according to researchers. Using the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) data from the National Institutes of Health, the researchers drew on reports from youth and their caregivers to look at longitudinal change and how it is moderated by the TRACEs.
Study on the Effect of Cations on Morphology in the Preparation of Vaterite Calcium Carbonate from Dolomite
Authors: Fan Tianbo , Zhang Xin'ai , Li Qiutong , Jiao Liqiang , Guo Hongfan , Li Xue
Published: November 2024

In this paper, the effect of trace components in dolomite on the morphology of vaterite calcium carbonate is studied in the CaCl2‐NH3‐CO2 system, with a focus on the effect of cations (Mg2+, Fe3+, Si4+, and Al3+) in the solution. Ca2+, NH4+, Mg2+, Fe3+, Si4+, and Al3+ in the digestion solution are proportionally prepared into a solution by analyzing the calcium rich digestion solution which is obtained by digesting dolomite with ammonium chloride solution. Under the optimal conditions, NH3 is introduced at a rate of 0.5 L min−1 for 1 h, CO2 is introduced at a rate of 0.5 L min−1 for 1 h and rotation speed of 500 r min−1 to prepare the vaterite calcium carbonate. The results show that the addition of Mg2+, Fe3+, Si4+, and Al3+ can promote the growth of vaterite calcium carbonate. Among them, adding Mg2+ and Si4+ can promote the dispersion of vaterite, Fe3+ and Al3+ can cause agglomeration of vaterite. Material Studio software is used to predict the crystal morphology of vaterite calcium carbonate under ideal conditions, and the calculation results are basically consistent with the experimental results.
Characterization of PbMo0.3W0.7O4 Crystal: A Potential Material for Photocatalysis and Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Isik Mehmet , Gasanly Nizami Mamed
Published: November 2024

PbMo0.3W0.7O4 semiconductor crystal, which contains the balanced ratios of Mo and W, is grown for the first time by Czochralski method. The structural and optical properties of the crystal are investigated in detail in the present study. Structural analysis shows that crystal has tetragonal structure like PbMoO4 and PbWO4 compounds. The optical characteristics are studied by transmission, Raman, FTIR and photoluminescence methods. The bandgap energy is found to be 3.18 eV, and the positions of the conduction and valence bands are determined. The vibrational characteristics are studied by means of Raman and FTIR spectroscopy techniques. Photoluminescence spectrum presents three peaks around 486, 529, and 544 nm which fall into the green emission spectral range. Taking into account the properties of the compound, it is stated that PbMo0.3W0.7O4 (or Pb(MoO4)0.3(WO4)0.7) has the potential to be used in water splitting applications and optoelectronic devices that emit green light.
Why Joint Development Agreement Is the Preferred Model for Settling the Kenya–Somalia Maritime Boundary Dispute
Authors: Kamwaria Alex Namu
Published: November 2024

This policy brief delves into the procedures surrounding maritime zone disputes under UNCLOS and assesses their efficacy in settling prolonged maritime disputes that involve straddling natural resources and livelihoods in the context of Kenya–Somalia. Given the rise in maritime border disputes across Africa, the brief further examines the use of joint development agreements (JDAs) as a temporary measure for resolving such disputes. It analyzes the challenges associated with using JDAs to address maritime boundary delimitations, their impact on peace and security, and their relationship with local contexts, particularly concerning straddling natural resources and livelihoods. Ultimately, the brief aims to offer practical recommendations for resolving prolonged maritime disputes between neighboring states in Africa, with an emphasis on Kenya and Somalia.
Tailoring Intrinsic Oxygen Vacancies in P3‐Type Na0.66Mn0.66Mg0.33O1.93 to Enhance Oxygen Redox Activity
Authors: Wang Qin‐Chao , Zhang Jingkun , Zeng Zhiyong , Peng Zhaoquan , Zang Huilin , Li Xiaoge , Wang Chao , Han Jie
Published: November 2024

Integrating oxygen redox reactions with transition metal redox reactions offers a promising strategy to double or triple the energy density for large‐capacity battery cathodes. In this study, we have introduced intrinsic oxygen vacancies (VO) into a P3 layered cathode to modulate the electronic structure of O atoms and enhance oxygen redox activity. Rietveld‐refined X‐ray diffraction (XRD), X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy confirm the successful creation of VO in Na0.66Mn0.66Mg0.33O1.93 (OV‐NMM). Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that VO in OV‐NMM positively enhances the antibonding interaction between Mn and O, directing excess electrons from O holes toward adjacent Mn t2g and O 2p orbitals. This modification significantly improves the reversibility and accelerates Na+ transport kinetics for O2−/O− redox reactions. Ex situ synchrotron‐based XRD demonstrates that VO effectively eliminates the O3 phase, reduces Mg2+ migration, and suppresses irreversible structural changes. XAS of Mn K‐edge and O K‐edge further illustrate the advantageous role of oxygen vacancies in facilitating oxygen redox reactions. These findings highlight the potential of defect engineering, particularly VO, to boost anionic redox activity for high‐capacity energy storage applications.
Who Speaks Tho Fan? Deconstructing the Constructed Language of Jade Empire
Authors: Serada Alesha
Published: November 2024

Despite being the largest East Asian country, China is underrepresented in video games, particularly those produced in the West. This article examines the video game Jade Empire (2005), developed by the acclaimed Canadian studio Bioware. Despite its age and now historical status in video game culture, Jade Empire remains one of the few relatively successful standalone video games based on Chinese culture (or appropriation thereof) created in the West. In addition to the borrowed elements of Chinese culture, the game uniquely introduces its own constructed language, Tho Fan, for world‐building. This article contextualizes this constructed language within the broader scope of constructed languages in Western fantasy and video games in particular, analyzing its creative and communicative potential. My analysis suggests that Tho Fan acts more as a tool of exclusion than of immersion, aligning with postcolonial critiques of video games. Conversely, Tho Fan has subversive potential when viewed as a metaphor for the inability of “the Subaltern” to “speak.” This ultimately presents a paradoxical issue of perceived authenticity in fantasy worlds that inherently defy historical accuracy.
Heidi A. Campbell. 2020. Digital Creatives and the Rethinking of Religious Authority. Routledge
Authors: Lipková Helena
Published: November 2024

The book Digital Creatives and the Rethinking of Religious Authority makes a valuable contribution to the study of how religious authority is evolving in the digital age. The author synthesizes previous research and introduces a new framework for categorizing types of religious authority in digital spaces. Building upon Anderson's earlier typology, Campbell significantly advances this framework through her original empirical research, which is based on a series of qualitative interviews with Christian religious digital creatives (RDCs). Campbell identifies nine distinct manifestations of RDCs, demonstrating how each type, through their actions, enacts media‐making narratives and engages in technological apologetics. Her approach offers a systematic and more nuanced classification and conceptual understanding of diversifying religious authority, reflecting the current plastic religious landscape and setting her work apart from previous studies. The book serves as a useful resource for scholars, offering insights and inspiration for further studies on the transformation of religious authority in new, hybrid spaces.
The Role of Fatty Acid Metabolism, the Related Potential Biomarkers, and Targeted Therapeutic Strategies in Gastrointestinal Cancers
Authors: Xie Ruixi , Luo Ying , Bao Bowen , Wu Xinshu , Guo Jia , Wang Jin , Qu Xiujuan , Che Xiaofang , Zheng Chunlei
Published: November 2024

Gastrointestinal cancer has emerged as a significant global health concern due to its high incidence and mortality, limited effectiveness of early detection, suboptimal treatment outcomes, and poor prognosis. Metabolic reprogramming is a prominent feature of cancer, and fatty acid metabolism assumes a pivotal role in bridging glucose metabolism and lipid metabolism. Fatty acids play important roles in cellular structural composition, energy supply, signal transduction, and other lipid‐related processes. Changes in the levels of fatty acid metabolite may indicate the malignant transformation of gastrointestinal cells, which have an impact on the prognosis of patients and can be used as a marker to monitor the efficacy of anticancer therapy. Therefore, targeting key enzymes involved in fatty acid metabolism, either as monotherapy or in combination with other agents, is a promising strategy for anticancer treatment. This article reviews the potential mechanisms of fatty acid metabolism disorders in the occurrence and development of gastrointestinal tumors, and summarizes the related potential biomarkers and anticancer strategies.
GLP‐1: A Prospective Guardian for Comprehensive Myocardial Perfusion
Authors: Li Zhi , Yu Yao , Li Jie , Jiang Xiaoqiong , Chen Jie , Ye Ning , Wu Boquan , Sun Yingxian , Sun Guozhe
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate the role of glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1) in myocardial perfusion, focusing on its effects on coronary microcirculation and cardiovascular outcomes.

Methods

Review of foundational research and large‐scale clinical trials, including Cardiovascular Outcome Trials (CVOTs), examining the cardiovascular effects of GLP‐1. Systematic analysis of trial data to assess the impact of GLP‐1 therapy on myocardial infarction, composite cardiovascular events, and stroke incidence.

Results

GLP‐1 therapy was found to significantly reduce myocardial infarction and composite cardiovascular events. Additionally, GLP‐1 receptor agonists were observed to reduce stroke incidence, suggesting systemic effects on panvascular diseases. While direct protective effects on coronary microvasculature have been less studied, growing evidence supports GLP‐1's role in comprehensive myocardial perfusion.

Conclusion

GLP‐1 is a promising therapeutic agent for improving myocardial perfusion and reducing cardiovascular events. Its protection is likely associated with comprehensive improvements in myocardial perfusion, including effects on coronary microcirculation. Further research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action and potential clinical applications.
DNA Barcoding for the Identification of Adult Mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae) in Western Australia
Authors: Lamichhane Binit , Brockway Craig , Evasco Kimberly , Nicholson Jay , Neville Peter J. , Mackenzie John S. , Smith David , Imrie Allison
Published: November 2024

Precise mosquito identification is integral to effective arbovirus surveillance. Nonetheless, the conventional morphological approach to identifying mosquito species is laborious, demands expertise and presents challenges when specimens are damaged. DNA barcoding offers a promising alternative, surmounting challenges inherent in morphological identification. To integrate DNA barcoding into arbovirus surveillance effectively, a robust dataset of mosquito barcode sequences is required. This study established a comprehensive repository of Cytochrome Oxidase I (COI) barcodes, encompassing 177 samples representing 45 mosquito species from southern and northern Western Australia (WA), including 16 species which have not been previously barcoded. The average intraspecific and interspecific genetic distances were 1% and 6.8%, respectively. Anopheles annulipes sensu lato had the highest intraspecific distance at 9.1%, signifying a genetically diverse species. While validating the potential of COI barcodes to accurately differentiate mosquito species, we identified that some species pairs have low COI divergence. This includes Aedes clelandi and Ae. hesperonotius, Tripteroides atripes and Tp. punctolaeralis and Ae. turneri and Ae. stricklandi. In addition, we observed ambiguity in identification of the members of Culex sitiens subgroup (Cx. annulirostris, Cx. palpalis and Cx. sitiens) and three members of Cx. pipiens complex (Cx. australicus, Cx. globocoxitus, Cx. quinquefasciatus). In summary, despite presenting challenges in the identification of some mosquito species, the COI barcode accurately identified most of the species and generated a valuable resource that will support the WA arbovirus surveillance program and enhance public health intervention strategies for mosquito‐borne disease control.
Competition, Drought, Season Length? Disentangling Key Factors for Local Adaptation in Two Mediterranean Annuals across Combined Macroclimatic and Microclimatic Aridity Gradients
Authors: Gade Florian , Metz Johannes
Published: November 2024

Competition in mesic sites and drought stress combined with short growing seasons in drier sites are key environmental factors along macroclimatic aridity gradients. They impose a triangular trade‐off for local adaptation. However, as experiments have rarely disentangled their effects on plant fitness, uncertainty remained whether mesic populations are indeed better competitors and drier populations better adapted to drought stress and short season length. Aridity differs also at microclimatic scale between north (more mesic) and south (more arid) exposed hill‐slopes. Little is known whether local adaptation occurs among exposures and whether south exposures harbor conspecifics better adapted to drier climates that could provide adaptive reservoirs under climate change. We sampled two Mediterranean annuals (Brachypodium hybridum, Hedypnois rhagadioloides) in 15 sites along a macroclimatic aridity gradient (89–926 mm rainfall) on corresponding north and south exposures. In a large greenhouse experiment, we measured their fitness under drought stress, competition, and short vs. long growing seasons. Along the macroclimatic gradient, mesic populations were better competitors under benign conditions. Drier populations performed no better under drought stress per se but coped better with the short growing seasons typical for drier macroclimates. At microclimatic scale, north exposure plants were slightly better competitors in H. rhagadioloides; in B. hybridum, south exposure plants coped better with drought under short season length. We demonstrate that local adaptation to drier macroclimates is trading‐off with competitive ability under benign conditions and vice‐versa. Drought escape via short life‐cycles was the primary adaptation to drier macroclimates, suggesting that intensified drought stress within the growing season under climate change challenges arid and mesic populations alike. Moreover, the drier microclimates at south exposures exhibited some potential as nearby reservoirs of drier‐adapted genotypes. This potential needs further investigation, yet may assist populations to persist under climate change and lessen the need for long‐distance migration.
Benzofuroxan‐Based Energetic Materials with Alternating Nitro and Hydroxyl Groups: Synthesis, Characterization, and Energetic Properties
Authors: Tiwari Atharva , Pandey Krishna , Das Priyanka , Ghule Vikas D. , Kumar Dheeraj
Published: November 2024

Due to its good stability, density and oxygen balance, the benzofuroxan fused ring framework has attracted particular attention in the field of high energy density materials. The planar structure of the benzofuroxan facilitates the straightforward derivatization with explosophores and contributes to molecular stability. In this work, a benzofuroxan scaffold was utilized to develop a highly dense energetic material, namely 5,7‐dihydroxy‐4,6‐dinitrobenzo[c][1,2,5]oxadiazole 1‐oxide (DHDNBF). The successive inclusion of explosophores like nitro (−NO2) and oxidative functionality like hydroxyl (−OH) on benzofuroxan resulted in an impressive density (ρ=1.91 g cm−3) and a positive oxygen balance (6.20 %) in DHDNBF (2). Furthermore, the hydroxy groups on DHDNBF enable the formation of dicationic energetic salts 3–7, contributing to additional modifications in the overall performance. Energetic salts 3, 4, and 5 exhibit significantly higher densities ranging from 1.84 (5) to 1.87 (3) g cm−3 and possess a favorable oxygen balance approaching zero or equal to zero. A marked improvement in thermal stabilities was observed in all the energetic salts (3–7) compared to their neutral counterparts, DHDNBF. Energetic salts 4 (Dv=8459 m s−1, P=32.10 GPa) and 5 (Dv=8539 m s−1, P=30.37 GPa) possess good energetic performance, comparable to that of well‐known explosives such as LLM‐105 (Dv=8560 m s−1, P=33.4 GPa). Overall, the favorable characteristics of energetic salts 4 and 5 make them potential candidates for use as benzofuroxan‐based secondary and primary explosives, respectively, in various military and civilian applications.
Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein Streaming Dielectrophoresis in Insulator‐Based Microfluidic Devices
Authors: Sheu Jerry , Seyler Sean L. , Fazlul Karim Rasel A. K. M. , Hayes Mark A.
Published: November 2024

There is tantalizing evidence that proteins can be accurately and selectively manipulated by higher order electric field effects within microfluidic devices. The accurate and precise manipulation of proteins in these platforms promises to disrupt and revolutionize many fields, most notably analytical biochemistry. Several lines of experimental evidence suggest much higher forces are generated compared to those calculated from traditional theories and those higher forces arise from subtle structural features of the proteins providing selectivity. New theories reflect some of the experimental evidence in the magnitude of the force predicted and inclusion of subtle structural features absent in traditional continuum theory. Unfortunately, the experimental evidence is largely exploratory in nature and lacks one or more important elements that prevents a clear interpretation and comparison to not only the other existing data, but also quantitative comparison to the evolving theoretical descriptions. Here, a clear and interpretable experimental system is presented that quantitatively determines the dielectrophoretic susceptibility of unlabeled, unaggregated native‐structure protein molecules that are exposed to modest electric fields (105–106 V/m) for short periods of time (∼5 ms) without significant increases in local concentration. The platform uses sub‐nanogram quantities of protein, the probed volume upon determination is a few picoliters, and the total analysis time is 10 s.