bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of Planar‐Chiral [2.2]Paracyclophane‐Based Oxazole‐Pyrimidine Ligands and Application in Nickel‐Catalyzed 1,2‐Reduction of α,β‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Wang Juan , Xie Qing‐Xian , Li Xiang , Yu Chang‐Bin , Zhou Yong‐Gui
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The planar‐chiral ligands have been widely applied as a class of unique and significant ligands in asymmetric catalysis. Among them, chiral [2.2]paracycyclophane has emerged as a privileged type of planar‐chiral framework and has been utilized as an important toolbox due to their structural stability. Herein, we design and synthesize [2.2]paracyclophane‐derived oxazole‐pyrimidine ligands (abberviated as PYMCOX). These N,N‐ligands with stable properties, rigid structure and large steric hindrance performed successfully in nickel‐catalyzed asymmetric 1,2‐reduction of α,β‐unsaturated ketones, affording the chiral allylic alcohols with up to 99% yield and 99% ee. Meanwhile, this reduction reaction could be conducted on gram‐scale without loss of activity and enantioselectivity, and the chiral ligand could be conveniently recovered with high yield.
Rational Design of Plasmonic Nanoparticle‐Molecule Complexes for Chirality Sensing†
Authors: Wang Chen , Lu Dandan , Sun Lichao , Zhang Qingfeng
Published: November 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Sensing the chirality of molecules is of great importance to fields such as enantioselective synthesis, pharmaceutical industry, and biomedicine. Plasmonic nanoparticles are ideal candidates for molecular sensing due to their inherent plasmonic properties that significantly enhance their sensitivity to surrounding molecules. Developing plasmonic nanoparticle‐molecule complexes for chirality sensing has drawn enormous attention in recent years due to their intriguing properties and potential applications. Thus, in this review, we believe it is timely to circumnavigate the rational design of plasmonic nanoparticle‐molecule complexes and widen the scope of their emerging applications in chirality sensing. First, we present different fundamental mechanisms for plasmon‐based chirality that are built on the system of plasmonic nanoparticle‐molecule complexes. Second, we review the typical applications of plasmonic nanoparticle‐molecule complexes in chirality sensing. Third, we discuss the emerging biomedical applications that the plasmon‐based chirality has attracted enormous interest. Finally, we provide an outlook on the challenges and opportunities in the field of plasmonic approaches for chirality sensing.
A systematic review of the effectiveness of meaning‐centred psychotherapies in depressed participants
Authors: Marco José H. , Martinez‐Micó Alexandre , García‐Alandete Joaquín , Guillén Verónica , Grimaldos Jorge , Pérez Sandra , Quero Soledad
Published: November 2023

Depression is a mental disorder that is associated with low quality of life, increased risk of suicide and a high economic cost for society. Meta‐analyses indicate that Meaning Centred Psychotherapies (MCP) are an efficacious psychotherapy to reduce depression in participants with chronic illness and cancer. However, to date, no systematic review has analysed the effectiveness of MCP in depressed participants who do not have a physical illness or cancer. The objective of this study was to carry out a systematic review to analyse the effectiveness of MCP in participants with depression and no physical illness. The search was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines (PRISMA). Six studies (two randomised controlled trials and four quasi‐experimental studies) were included in the systematic review. The results indicate that MCP is more effective than a control group as waitlist (four studies), psychoeducation group (one study), and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT, one study), in reducing depressive symptoms, improving meaning in life and reducing anxiety in participants without physical illness. MCP would be considered a probably efficacious treatment for depression. However, further research with better experimental designs will be necessary to confirm the effectiveness of MCP for depression.
Effect of Cobalt Doping on The Structural, Linear and Nonlinear Optical Parameters of Manganese Oxide Thin Layers
Authors: Rossi Zaid , Ghannam Hajar , Brioual Bilal , Ullah Shafi , Zanouni Mohamed , Diani Mustapha , Aouni Abdesamad , Addou Mohammed
Published: November 2023

In this study, undoped and cobalt‐doped manganese oxide Co:Mn3O4 (0, 2, and 4 at%) are elaborated by the spray pyrolysis procedure on glass substrates. The effect of cobalt doping concentrations on the structural, morphological, and optical features (linear and nonlinear) are investigated through the X‐ray diffractometer, Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy with an attached energy dispersive X‐ray and UV–Vis‐NIR spectrophotometer. The XRD investigations exhibit a polycrystalline tetragonal structure for all Co:Mn3O4 and confirm by Raman results with the distinctive tetragonal mode A1g at 657 cm−1. The SEM images show an increase in roughness as cobalt doping concentration increases. The EDS quantitative analysis revealed the presence of manganese, oxygen, and cobalt. Furthermore, the optical investigation is pursued firstly through the linear optical that showed a decrease in the transmittance, and optical band gap energy as the cobalt concentration increased due to oxygen vacancies and defects and the increase of refractive index from 2.05 to 2.21. Second, the nonlinear optical parameters show a high value of the nonlinear refractive index 3.75 × 10−7 (esu) and the third‐order susceptibility χ3 = 2.2 × 10−8(esu) of Co:Mn3O4(2at%). These values put the Co:Mn3O4(2at%) thin layer as a candidate in the optoelectronic applications as a third‐order nonlinear medium.
Remote and in‐clinic digital cognitive screening tools outperform the MoCA to distinguish cerebral amyloid status among cognitively healthy older adults
Authors: Thompson Louisa I. , Kunicki Zachary J. , Emrani Sheina , Strenger Jennifer , De Vito Alyssa N. , Britton Karysa J. , Dion Catherine , Harrington Karra D. , Roque Nelson , Salloway Stephen , Sliwinski Martin J. , Correia Stephen , Jones Richard N.
Published: November 2023

INTRODUCTION

We evaluated the accuracy of remote and in‐person digital tests to distinguish between older adults with and without AD pathological change and used the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) as a comparison test.

METHODS

Participants were 69 cognitively normal older adults with known beta‐amyloid (Aβ) PET status. Participants completed smartphone‐based assessments 3×/day for 8 days, followed by TabCAT tasks, DCTclock™, and MoCA at an in‐person study visit. We calculated the area under the curve (AUC) to compare task accuracies to distinguish Aβ status.

RESULTS

Average performance on the episodic memory (Prices) smartphone task showed the highest accuracy (AUC = 0.77) to distinguish Aβ status. On in‐person measures, accuracy to distinguish Aβ status was greatest for the TabCAT Favorites task (AUC = 0.76), relative to the DCTclockTM (AUC = 0.73) and MoCA (AUC = 0.74).

DISCUSSION

Although further validation is needed, our results suggest that several digital assessments may be suitable for more widespread cognitive screening application.
Development of ABO4‐type photoanodes for photoelectrochemical water splitting
Authors: Wang Xin , Liu Boyan , Zhang Yingjuan , Butburee Teera , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Wang Songcan , Huang Wei
Published: November 2023

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting with zero carbon emissions is a promising technology to solve the global issues of energy shortage and environmental pollution. However, the current development of PEC systems is facing a bottleneck of low solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) efficiency (<10%), which cannot meet the demand of large‐scale H2 production. The development of low‐cost, highly active, and stable photoanode materials is crucial for high STH efficiency of PEC water splitting. The recent development of BiVO4 as photoanode materials for PEC water splitting has been a great success, and ABO4‐type ternary metal oxides with a similar structure to BiVO4 have high development potential as efficient photoanodes for high‐performance PEC water splitting. The design and development of ABO4 photoanodes for PEC water splitting are critically reviewed with special emphasis on the modification strategies and performance improvement mechanisms of each semiconductor. The comprehensive analysis in this review provides guidelines and insights for the exploration of new high‐efficiency photoanodes for solar fuel production.
Catalytic reactivity descriptors of metal‐nitrogen‐doped carbon catalysts for electrocatalysis
Authors: Liu Hong , Li Jiejie , Arbiol Jordi , Yang Bo , Tang Pengyi
Published: November 2023

Metal‐nitrogen‐doped carbon material have sparked enormous attentions as they show excellent electrocatalytic performance and provide a prototype for mechanistic understandings of electrocatalytic reactions. Researchers spare no effort to find catalytic reactivity “descriptor”, which is correlated with catalytical properties and could be utilized for guiding the rational design of high‐performance catalysts. In recent years, benefited from the development of computational technology, theoretical calculation came into being as a powerful tool to understand catalytic mechanisms from an atomic level as well as to accelerate the process of finding a catalytic reactivity descriptor and promoting the development of effective catalysts. In the present review, we provide the latest theoretical research toward energetic and electronic descriptors for metal‐nitrogen‐doped carbon (M‐N‐C) materials, which have shown excellent electrocatalytic performance and provide a prototype for the mechanistic understanding of electrocatalytic reactions. This review uses density functional theory calculation and the most advanced machine learning method to describe the exploration of four kinds of electrocatalytic reaction descriptors, namely oxygen reduction reaction, carbon dioxide reduction reaction, hydrogen evolution reaction, and nitrogen reduction reaction. The aim of this review is to inspire the future design of high‐efficiency M‐N‐C catalysts by providing in‐depth insights into the electrocatalytic activity of these materials.
Renewable Energy‐Based Load Frequency Controller and Model with a Reduced Order for a Large‐Scale Power System
Authors: Singh Rahul , Kumar Jitendra , Singh Jay , Chaurasia Giraja Shankar
Published: November 2023

Power system stability relies heavily on load frequency control (LFC) because it ensures that the power generated in a grid matches the load demand. The conventional LFC methods are no longer adequate with the rising use of renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. These resources are intermittent, and their power output varies depending on weather conditions. As a result, incorporating renewable energy resources (RERs) into the LFC system necessitates a different approach. One method is to use advanced control algorithms that can respond quickly to changes in power output. Hence, this article proposes an autoencoder‐based jellyfish optimization developed in this framework to reduce the power outage and control voltage and frequency fluctuations. The LFC system can be optimized by combining autoencoder and jellyfish optimization techniques to effectively handle the variability and unpredictability of RERs while maintaining the power system's stability and reliability. This approach may also result in more efficient and cost‐effective power system operation by reducing the need for conventional power generation and minimizing the impact of RERs on the system.
Clinical and genetic analysis of infants with pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 6 caused by RARS2 variations
Authors: Zhao Shichao , Lian Ruofei , Jin Liang , Li Mengchun , Jia Tianming , Xu Falin , Du Kaixian , Wang Lijun , Guo Qiliang , Dong Yan
Published: November 2023

Objective

Defects in RARS2 cause cerebellopontine hypoplasia type 6 (pontocerebellar hypoplasia type 6, PCH6, OMIM: #611523), a rare autosomal recessive inherited mitochondrial disease. Here, we report two male patients and their respective family histories.

Methods

We describe the clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of these patients. Whole‐exome sequencing was used to identify the genetic mutations.

Results

One patient showed hypoglycemia, high lactic acid levels (fluctuating from 6.7 to 14.1 mmol/L), and frequent seizures after birth, with progressive atrophy of the cerebrum, cerebellum, and pons. The other patient presented with early infantile developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (EIDEEs) with an initial developmental delay followed by infantile epileptic spasm syndrome (IESS) at 5 months old, with no imaging changes. Whole‐exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous RARS2 variants c.25A>G (p.I9V) with c.1261C>T (p.Q421*) and c.1A>G (p.M1V) with c.122A>G (p.D41G) in these two patients. Of these loci, c.1261C>T and c.122A>G have not been previously reported.

Significance

Our findings have expanded the RARS2 gene variant spectrum and present EIDEEs and IESS as phenotypes which deepened the association between PCH6 and RARS2.

Plain Language Summary

Defects in RARS2 cause cerebellopontine hypoplasia type 6, a rare autosomal recessive inherited mitochondrial disease. Two patients with RARS2 variants were reported in this article. One patient showed hypoglycemia, high lactic acid levels, and frequent seizures after birth, with progressive atrophy of the cerebrum, cerebellum, and Page 3 of 21 Epilepsia OpenFor Review Only pons. The other patient presented with an initial developmental delay followed by refractory epilepsy at 5 months old, with no imaging changes. Our findings deepened the association between PCH6 and RARS2.
Moderators of treatment effect in a randomised controlled trial of single‐ and multi‐family therapy for anorexia nervosa in adolescents and emerging adults
Authors: Baudinet Julian , Hodsoll John , Schmidt Ulrike , Simic Mima , Landau Sabine , Eisler Ivan
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Multi‐family therapy for anorexia nervosa (MFT‐AN) is a novel, group‐based intervention that intensifies single‐family therapy for anorexia nervosa (FT‐AN), with the aim of improving outcomes. The current study explored treatment moderators in a randomised controlled trial (N = 167) of FT‐AN and MFT‐AN for young people (adolescents/emerging adults aged 13–20 years) with anorexia nervosa.

Methods

Data were analysed using multiple linear regression. Six hypothesised baseline participant and parent factors were tested as possible moderators of treatment effect on end‐of‐treatment and follow‐up percentage of median Body Mass Index (%mBMI); age, eating disorder symptom severity, perceived family conflict (young person and parent ratings) and parent‐rated experiences of caregiving (positive and negative).

Results

Greater parent‐rated positive caregiving experiences moderated treatment outcomes at follow‐up (β = −0.47, 95%CI: −0.91, −0.03, p = 0.04), but not end‐of‐treatment. Participants who had fewer parent‐rated positive caregiving experiences at baseline had higher weight at follow‐up if they had MFT‐AN compared to FT‐AN. No other hypothesised baseline factors moderated treatment outcome (p's > 0.05).

Discussion

The current study suggests MFT‐AN may be indicated for families who present with fewer positive caregiving experiences to treatment. The MFT‐AN group context may help to promote mentalisation and hope for these families, which may be harder to achieve in single‐family treatment. Future research is needed to empirically evaluate how and why MFT‐AN supports this group more.

Trial Registration

ISRCTN registry: ISRCTN11275465, registered 29 January 2007.
Effect of ficin‐hydrolyzed wheat gluten on bread quality and in vitro antioxidant activity before and after simulated gastrointestinal digestion
Authors: Seyedain‐Ardabili Mojan , Azizi Mohammad‐Hossein
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effect of adding ficin‐hydrolyzed wheat gluten at different levels (0%, 1%, 2%, 4%) on bread quality, and in vitro antioxidant activity before and after simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Our findings revealed that the incorporation of the generated wheat gluten hydrolysates (WGH) up to 4 g per 100 g flour positively affected the technological and physical–chemical characterizations of breads, including dough rheological properties, color, specific volume, and moisture. The texture profile analysis indicated reductions in hardness, springiness, and chewiness of the breads, and confirmed anti‐staling properties during storage. The enriched breads received satisfactory scores from the sensory panel and were perceived as less stale after a 4‐day period of storage. The aroma score of the 4% WGH bread was significantly higher than other treatments. Regarding taste, the 4% WGH bread scored the lowest, but the obtained value was not statistically significant. The enriched breads exhibited DPPH, ABTS radical scavenging, and Fe2+ chelation abilities that increased in response to higher levels of hydrolysate incorporation, and these antioxidant activities were enhanced after simulated gastrointestinal digestion. Our findings confirm that it is possible to apply ficin‐generated WGH to enhance physicochemical, nutritional, and biological quality of bread.
Enhanced VEGF secretion and blood–brain barrier disruption: Radiation‐mediated inhibition of astrocyte autophagy via PI3K‐AKT pathway activation
Authors: Zhang Shifeng , Li Mingping , Qiu Yuemin , Wu Junyu , Xu Xue , Ma Qian , Zheng Zhihui , Lu Gengxin , Deng Zhezhi , Huang Haiwei
Published: November 2023

Radiation‐induced damage to the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is the recognized pathological basis of radiation‐induced brain injury (RBI), a side effect of head and neck cancer treatments. There is currently a lack of therapeutic approaches for RBI due to the ambiguity of its underlying mechanisms. Therefore, it is essential to identify these mechanisms in order to prevent RBI or provide early interventions. One crucial factor contributing to BBB disruption is the radiation‐induced activation of astrocytes and oversecretion of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). Mechanistically, the PI3K‐AKT pathway can inhibit cellular autophagy, leading to pathological cell aggregation. Moreover, it acts as an upstream pathway of VEGF. In this study, we observed the upregulation of the PI3K‐AKT pathway in irradiated cultured astrocytes through bioinformatics analysis, we then validated these findings in animal brains and in vitro astrocytes following radiation exposure. Additionally, we also found the inhibition of autophagy and the oversecretion of VEGF in irradiated astrocytes. By inhibiting the PI3K‐AKT pathway or promoting cellular autophagy, we observed a significant amelioration of the inhibitory effect on autophagy, leading to reductions in VEGF oversecretion and BBB disruption. In conclusion, our study suggests that radiation can inhibit autophagy and promote VEGF oversecretion by upregulating the PI3K‐AKT pathway in astrocytes. Blocking the PI3K pathway can alleviate both of these effects, thereby mitigating damage to the BBB in patients undergoing radiation treatment.
Predelivery sonographic predictors of obstetric anal sphincter injury among nulliparous women
Authors: Levin Gabriel , Schwartz Anat , Horesh Nir , Alcalay Menachem , Ram Edward , Meyer Raanan
Published: November 2023

Objective

Data available at admission to delivery of nulliparous has rarely been investigated for prediction of obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI). The aim of the present study was to study risk factors for OASI in nulliparous based on information available at admission.

Methods

A retrospective study of all nulliparous women undergoing labor, during March 2011 to January 2021 was performed. We compared women with OASI following delivery to those without by univariate and multivariable regression.

Results

A total of 30 262 deliveries were included and 4181 (13.4%) of those were delivered by an emergent cesarean delivery. OASI followed 453 (1.5%) deliveries. Women in the OASI group were younger 29 ± 4.4 versus 30 ± 4.8, P = 0.001. In a multivariable regression analysis, higher sonographic estimated fetal weight was positively associated with OASI occurrence (aOR, 95% CI: 1.13 [1.00–1.29]). Maternal age was inversely associated with OASI occurrence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.95 [0.92–0.97]).

Conclusion

Sonographic fetal weight estimation is an independent risk factor for OASI occurrence that may be available at admission for delivery among nulliparous women.
Labor pain management practices and associated factors in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Azeze Gedion Asnake , Asgedom Yordanos Sisay , Efa Amelework Gonfa , Haile Kirubel Eshetu , Woldegeorgis Beshada Zerfu , Gebeyehu Natnael Atnafu , Gebrekidan Amanuel Yosef , Kassie Gizachew Ambaw , Lombebo Afework Alemu
Published: November 2023

Background

The pain that women experience during labor and childbirth is the central feature of parturition in humans. Despite improvement in the development of standards for pain assessment and treatment, labor pain is mostly ignored especially in low‐ and middle‐income countries resulting in unmeasured suffering from childbirth for mothers.

Objectives

We aimed to provide a comprehensive estimation of the pooled magnitude and associated factors of labor pain management practices in Ethiopian public health facilities.

Search Strategy

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis statement. Electronic databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database (EMBASE), PubMed/MEDLINE, and Scopus were searched from database inception to June 30, 2023.

Selection Criteria

The inclusion criteria were established prior to article review and follows the population, intervention, comparison and outcome criterions.

Data Collection and Analysis

We evaluated publication bias by means of funnel plots and Egger's test. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed using I2 statistics. For each associated factors in meta‐regressions, the pooled odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were extracted. A P value of 0.05 was used to determine the significance of the small study effect.

Main Results

Our search terms yielded 17 studies with 5735 participants. The pooled prevalence of labor pain management practices in Ethiopia was 45.73% (95% CI: 39.13, 52.32; I2 = 96.4). Having adequate knowledge regarding labor pain management (OR: 3.74; 95% CI: 2.74, 5.11; I2 = 53.8%), a favorable attitude toward labor pain management (OR: 2.90; 95% CI: 2.03, 4.14; I2 = 63.8%), availability of labor analgesics (OR: 3.23; 95% CI: 2.18, 4.79; I2 = 46.2%), and clinical experience of 10 or more years (OR: 3.45; 95% CI: 2.06, 5.78; I2 = 19.0%) were factors that were statistically associated with the use of labor pain management practices.

Conclusion

We concluded that the routine practices of labor pain management by obstetric health providers in Ethiopia are still low. Therefore, it remains important to call for holistic and inclusive interventions targeting maternity health providers and hospital officials to update their long‐standing practices.

Registration

Registered in PROSPERO under protocol number CRD42023429140.
Resistance Literature: Representations of Land and Indigeneity in Indigenous‐Authored, Canadian Award‐Winning Rural Young Adult and Middle‐Grade Fiction
Authors: Eppley Karen , Wood Jeffrey , Stagg‐Peterson Shelley
Published: November 2023

Sixty percent of Indigenous people in Canada live rurally and on reserve but are largely absent among young adult and middle‐grade fiction. This critical content analysis examines representations of the land and rural places and Indigenous identities in Canadian award‐winning fiction written by Indigenous authors for young adult and middle‐grade readers. By positioning land, place, and rural Indigenous youth identities and experiences at the center of the analysis, the study contradicts dominant colonizing perspectives of “rural” and “Indigenous” that undervalue and/or disregard the lives, knowledge, and perspectives of rural Indigenous community members. Critical content analysis makes visible the books' complex representations of rural land and identities where Indigenous characters are agentic, resilient, and adaptable in the face of settler colonialism.
Number of sites‐based solver for determining coverages from steady‐state mean‐field micro‐kinetic models
Authors: Vijay Sudarshan , H. Heenen Hendrik , Singh Aayush R. , Chan Karen , Voss Johannes
Published: November 2023

Kinetic models parameterized by ab‐initio calculations have led to significant improvements in understanding chemical reactions in heterogeneous catalysis. These studies have been facilitated by implementations which determine steady‐state coverages and rates of mean‐field micro‐kinetic models. As implemented in the open‐source kinetic modeling program, CatMAP, the conventional solution strategy is to use a root‐finding algorithm to determine the coverage of all intermediates through the steady‐state expressions, constraining all coverages to be non‐negative and to properly sum to unity. Though intuitive, this root‐finding strategy causes issues with convergence to solution due to these imposed constraints. In this work, we avoid explicitly imposing these constraints, solving the mean‐field steady‐state micro‐kinetic model in the space of number of sites instead of solving it in the space of coverages. We transform the constrained root‐finding problem to an unconstrained least‐squares minimization problem, leading to significantly improved convergence in solving micro‐kinetic models and thus enabling the efficient study of more complex catalytic reactions.
Mindfulness, coping, and optimism as mechanisms of change in the 3RP‐NF intervention
Authors: Grunberg Victoria A. , Bakhshaie Jafar , Manglani Heena , Hooker Julia , Rochon Elizabeth A. , Vranceanu Ana‐Maria
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Neurofibromatosis (NF) is chronic neurogenetic condition that increases risk for poor quality of life, depression, and anxiety. Given the lack of biomedical treatments, we developed the “Relaxation Response Resiliency for NF” (3RP‐NF) program to improve psychosocial outcomes among adults with NF.

Objective

To move toward effectiveness testing, we must understand mechanisms that explained treatment effects. We tested whether our hypothesized mechanisms of change—mindfulness, coping, and optimism—mediated improvements in quality of life, depression, and anxiety among adults in the 3RP‐NF program (N = 114; ages 18–70; 72.80% female; 81.58% White).

Methods

We conducted mixed‐effects models to assess whether these mechanisms uniquely mediated outcomes.

Results

Improvements in quality of life were most explained by coping, (b = 0.97, SE = 0.28, CI [0.45, 1.56]), followed by mindfulness (b = 0.46, SE = 0.17, CI [0.15, 0.82]) and optimism (b = 0.39, SE = 0.12, CI [0.17, 0.65]). Improvements in depression and anxiety were most explained by mindfulness (b = −1.52, SE = 0.38, CI [−2.32, −0.85], CSIE = −0.26; b = −1.29, SE = 0.35, CI [−2.04, −0.67], CSIE = −0.23), followed by optimism (b = 0.39, SE = 0.12, CI [0.17, 0.65]; b = −0.49, SE = 0.20, CI [−0.91, −0.13]), but were not explained by coping (b = 0.22, SE = 0.43, CI [−0.62, 1.07]; b = 0.06, SE = 0.46, CI [−0.84, 0.97]), respectively.

Conclusions

Targeting mindfulness, coping, and optimism in psychosocial interventions may be a promising way to improve the lives of adults with NF.
Potential relevance of salivary legumain for the clinical diagnostic of hand, foot, and mouth disease
Authors: Tan Yong Wah , Teo Fiona Mei Shan , Ler Siok Ghee , Alli‐Shaik Asfa , Nyo Min , Chong Chia Yin , Tan Natalie Woon Hui , Wang Robert Y. L. , Gunaratne Jayantha , Chu Justin Jang Hann
Published: November 2023

The fight against hand, foot, and mouth disease (HFMD) remains an arduous challenge without existing point‐of‐care (POC) diagnostic platforms for accurate diagnosis and prompt case quarantine. Hence, the purpose of this salivary biomarker discovery study is to set the fundamentals for the realization of POC diagnostics for HFMD. Whole salivary proteome profiling was performed on the saliva obtained from children with HFMD and healthy children, using a reductive dimethylation chemical labeling method coupled with high‐resolution mass spectrometry‐based quantitative proteomics technology. We identified 19 upregulated (fold change = 1.5–5.8) and 51 downregulated proteins (fold change = 0.1–0.6) in the saliva samples of HFMD patients in comparison to that of healthy volunteers. Four upregulated protein candidates were selected for dot blot‐based validation assay, based on novelty as biomarkers and exclusions in oral diseases and cancers. Salivary legumain was validated in the Singapore (n = 43 healthy, 28 HFMD cases) and Taiwan (n = 60 healthy, 47 HFMD cases) cohorts with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.7583 and 0.8028, respectively. This study demonstrates the feasibility of a broad‐spectrum HFMD POC diagnostic test based on legumain, a virus‐specific host systemic signature, in saliva.
Evaluating the effects of graphene nanoparticles combined radio‐frequency thawing on the physicochemical quality and protein conformation in hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) dorsal muscle
Authors: Tian Fang , Gu Xiaohan , Li Yujin , Cai Luyun
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The thawing process is an essential step for a frozen marine fish. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of graphene magnetic nanoparticles combined radio‐frequency thawing methods on frozen hairtail (Trichiurus lepturus) dorsal muscle. Seven thawing methods were used: air thawing, 4 °C cold storage thawing, water thawing, radio‐frequency thawing (RT), radio frequency thawing combined with graphene nanoparticles (G‐RT), radio frequency thawing combined with graphene oxide nanoparticles (GO‐RT) and radio‐frequency thawing combined with graphene magnetic nanoparticles (GM‐RT). The thawing loss and centrifugal loss, electric conductivity, total volatile basic nitrogen, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances and color of thawed hairtail dorsal muscle were determined. The carbonyl content, total sulfhydryl groups, Ca2+‐ATPase activity, raman spectroscopy measurements and Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry measurements were determined using myofibrillar extracted from the dorsal muscle of hairtail. The water distribution was determined using low‐field NMR techniques.

RESULTS

The results demonstrated that the RT, G‐RT, GO‐RT and GM‐RT could significantly shorten the thawing time. Moreover, GO‐RT and GM‐RT efficiently preserved the color of fish dorsal muscle and reduced the impact of thawing on fish quality by reducing lipid and protein oxidation. Meanwhile, the myofibrillar protein structure thawed by GO‐RT and GM‐RT were more stable and had a more stable secondary structure, which maintained strong systemic stability at the same time as slowing down protein oxidation.

CONCLUSION

The results showed that GO‐RT and GM‐RT can significantly improve the thawing efficiency at the same time as effectively maintaining and improving the color and texture of thawed fish, slowing down the oxidation of proteins and lipids, and maintaining a good quality of thawed fish meat. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Bioactive agents from Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) R.Br. ex G. Don bark extracts for health promotion and nutraceutical uses
Authors: Sut Stefania , Dall'Acqua Stefano , Sinan Kouadio Ibrahime , Zengin Gokhan , Uba Abdullah Ibrahim , Etienne Ouattara Katinan , Jugreet Sharmeen , Mahomoodally Mohamad Fawzi
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Parkia biglobosa stem bark extracts were prepared using methanol, methanol 80%, water and ethyl acetate to investigate their phytochemical contents, as well as antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory properties.

RESULTS

Liquid chromatography (LC) quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MS) and LC‐MSn revealed the presence of flavonoids, hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives and gallotannins. Particularly, the water extract contained rutin (480 μg per 100 mg) and 3‐caffeoylquinic acid (1109 μg per 100 mg) in higher amounts, whereas the 80% methanol extract contains methoxyluteolin‐7‐O‐rutinoside and catechin derivatives as major compounds. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents of the extracts were yielded in the range of 32.26–119.88 mg gallic acid equivalents g−1 and 0.60–2.39 mg rutin equivalents g−1, respectively. Total antioxidant capacity was also displayed in the range of 0.53–6.34 mmol Trolox equivalents (TE) g−1. Both the methanolic extracts showed higher total antioxidant capacity that could be related to the total phenolic contents. Radical scavenging capacity in DPPH (2,2‐diphenyl‐2‐picryl‐hydrazyl) (37.21–508.30 mg TE g−1) and ABTS [2,2‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐ 6‐sulfonic acid)] (60.95–1068.06 mg TE g−1) assays, reducing power in cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (54.23–1002.78 mg TE g−1) and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (33.18–558.68 mg TE g−1) assays, as well as metal chelating activity (2.45–11.28 mg EDTA equivalents g−1), were exhibited by all extracts. All extracts were found to inhibit acetylcholinesterase [0.23–2.47 mg galanthamine equivalents (GALAE) g−1], tyrosinase [27.20–83.33 mg kojic acid equivalents g−1], amylase [mmol acarbose equivalents (ACAE) g−1]. On the other hand, all extracts, except the water extract, inhibited butyrylcholinesterase (5.38–6.56 mg GALAE g−1), whereas only the water and ethyl acetate extract showed glucosidase inhibitory potential (1.96 and 1.82 mmol ACAE g−1). In general, the water extract was found to be a weaker enzyme inhibitor suggesting that water is not the preferrable extraction solvent to obtain active products.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that the stem bark extracts of P. biglobosa contains good amount of phytochemical and extracts present significant antioxidant, as well as reasonable enzyme inhibitory effects. Hence, these findings suggest that further studies can be performed on more specific biological targets and models of bioactivity to determine their safe usage as a nutraceutical or for the preparation functional foods. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
3D Printable Self‐Sensing Magnetorheological Elastomer
Authors: Costi Leone , Georgopoulou Antonia , Mondal Somashree , Iida Fumiya , Clemens Frank
Published: November 2023

Magnetorheological elastomers (MREs) are a category of smart materials composed of a magnetic powder dispersed in an elastomeric matrix. They are characterized by the ability to change their mechanical properties when an external magnetic field is applied, called magnetorheological (MR) effect. When a conductive filler is added to a magnetorheological elastomer, the resulting hybrid filler composite showcases both MR and piezoresistive effects. For such a reason, these composites are referred to as self‐sensing magnetorheological elastomers. In this case, the synthesized self‐sensing magnetorheological elastomers are based on styrene‐based thermoplastic elastomers (TPS), carbonyl iron particles (CIP), and carbon black (CB). The hybrid filler concept using various coated CIP and constant CB content showed that above 25 vol.% CIP the resistivity increased rapidly. This work proposes the first case of a 3D printable self‐sensing magnetorheological elastomer and cyclic mechanical compression and tensile mode analysis at high deformation (up to 20% and 10%, respectively). The results showcase a magnetoresistive change of up to 68% and a piezoresistive change of up to 42% and 98% in compression and tension, respectively. In addition, the magnetostriction of the self‐sensing samples has been characterized to be 3.6% and 5.6% in the case of CIP 15 and 30 vol.%, respectively.
The effects of pseudo‐relevant 100% claims
Authors: Munichor Nira , Levontin Liat
Published: November 2023

The term “100%” represents perfection. Thus, it is not surprising that marketers believe that claims that contain this term (e.g., “100% organic”) can make products more appealing. This intuition is reflected in the extensive use of 100% claims to describe products' qualities. We discuss how the term 100% can be used to create a claim about perfection that seems to, but does not, provide meaningful information about a product's benefits (e.g., “100% juice”). By appearing to be, but actually not being, relevant to the judgment at hand, these so‐called pseudo‐relevant 100% claims may mislead consumers into making baseless positive assumptions regarding the focal product. Three studies examine how consumers respond to pseudo‐relevant 100% claims. Our results suggest that pseudo‐relevant 100% claims lead to lower product evaluations and consumption intentions than similar claims that include adjacent percentages or no numerical terms. Interestingly, they also suggest spillover effects onto evaluations of the products' customers. Our findings show that consumers pick up on the meaninglessness of the promise of perfection implied by the term “100%” in pseudo‐relevant 100% claims, which causes them to perceive the product as less appealing.
Unbiased evaluation of predicted gamma passing rate by an event‐mixing technique
Authors: Koganezawa Akito S , Matsuura Takaaki , Kawahara Daisuke , Nakashima Takeo , Shiba Eiji , Murakami Yuji , Nagata Yasushi
Published: November 2023

Background

Predicting models of the gamma passing rate (GPR) have been studied to substitute the measurement‐based gamma analysis. Since these studies used data from different radiotherapy systems comprising TPS, linear accelerator, and detector array, it has been difficult to compare the performances of the predicting models among institutions with different radiotherapy systems.

Purpose

We aimed to develop unbiased scoring methods to evaluate the performance of the models predicting the GPR, by introducing both best and worst limits for the performance of the GPR prediction.

Methods

Two hundred head‐and‐neck VMAT plans were used to develop a framework. The GPRs were measured using the ArcCHECK device. The predicted GPR [p] was generated using a deep learning‐based model [pDL]. The predicting model was evaluated using four metrics: standard deviation (SD) [σ], Pearson's correlation coefficient (CC) [r], mean squared error (MSE) [s], and mean absolute error (MAE) [a]. The best limit [, , , and ] was estimated by measuring the SD of measured GPR [m] by shifting the device along the longitudinal direction to measure different sampling points. Mimicked best and worst p’s [pbest and pworst] were generated from pDL. The worst limit was defined such that m and p have no correlation [CC ∼ 0]. The worst limit [σMix, rMix, sMix, and aMix] was generated using the event‐mixing (EM) technique originally introduced in high‐energy physics experiments. The range of σ, r, s, and a was defined to be , , , and . The achievement score (AS) independently based on σ, r, s, and a were calculated for pDL, pbest and pworst. The probability that p fails the gamma analysis (alert frequency; AF) was estimated as a function of values within the [, σMix] range for the 3%/2 mm data with a 95% criterion.

Results

SDs of the best limit were well reproduced by . The EM technique successfully generated the pairs with no correlation. The AS using four metrics showed good agreement. This agreement indicates successful definitions of both best and worst limits, consistent definitions of the AS, and successful generations of mixed events. The AF for the DL‐based model with the 3%/2 mm tolerance was 31.5% and 63.0% with CL's 99% and 99.9%, respectively.

Conclusion

We developed the AS to evaluate the predicting model of the GPR in an unbiased manner by excluding the effects of the precision of the radiotherapy system and the spreading of the GPR. The best and worst limits of the GPR prediction were successfully generated using the measured precision of the GPR and the EM technique, respectively. The AS and are expected to enable objective evaluation of the predicting model and setting exact achievement goal of precision for the predicted GPR.
Entanglement Negativity in de Sitter Biverse from Stringy Axionic Bell Pair: An Analysis Using Bunch‐Davies Vacuum
Authors: Choudhury Sayantan
Published: November 2023

In this work, signatures of quantum entanglement by computing entanglement negativity between two causally unrelated regions in 3 + 1 dimensional global de Sitter space are studied. A bipartite quantum field theoretic setup for this purpose, driven by an axionic Bell pair resulting from Type IIB string compactification on a Calabi‐Yau three fold is investigated. A spherical surface that divides the spatial slice of the global de Sitter space into exterior and interior causally unrelated sub regions is taken into account. For the computational purpose, the simplest possible initial choice of quantum vacuum, which is Bunch‐Davies state is used. The quantitative quantum information theoretic measure for entanglement negativity turns out be consistent with the results obtained for entanglement entropy, even it is better than that from quantum information theoretic point of view. The problem in a hyperbolic open chart where one of the causally unrelated observers remains constrained and the scale dependence enters to the corresponding quantum information theoretic entanglement measure for axionic Bell pair is designed. From the analysis it is found that in the large scales, initially maximally entangled Bunch‐Davies state turns out to be strongly entangled or weakly entangled depending on the axionic decay constant and the supersymmetry breaking scale. It is also found that at the small scales the initial entanglement can be perfectly recovered. The possibility of having a biverse picture, which is a mini version of the multiverse in the present theoretical set up is discussed. Last but not the least, the necessary criteria for generating non vanishing quantum entanglement measures within the framework of quantum field theory of global de Sitter space as well as well as in primordial cosmology due to the axion derived from string theory are provided.
Oral administration of punicalagin attenuates imiquimod‐induced psoriasis by reducing ROS generation and inflammation via MAPK/ERK and NF‐κB signaling pathways
Authors: Wang Yuqian , Han Dan , Huang Yingjian , Dai Yilin , Wang Yan , Liu Meng , Wang Ning , Yin Tingyi , Du Wenqian , He Ke , Zheng Yan
Published: November 2023

Psoriasis, an immune‐mediated chronic inflammatory skin disease, imposes a huge mental and physical burden on patients and severely affects their quality of life. Punicalagin (PU), the most abundant ellagitannin in pomegranates, has become a research hotspot owing to its diverse biological activities. However, its effects on psoriasis remain unclear. We explored the impact and molecular mechanism of PU on M5‐stimulated keratinocyte cell lines and imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in BABL/c mice using western blotting, quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR), hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescent. Administration of PU‐enriched pomegranate extract at dosages of 150 and 250 mg/kg/day markedly attenuated psoriatic severity, abrogated splenomegaly, and reduced IMQ‐induced abnormal epidermal proliferation, CD4+ T‐cell infiltration, and inflammatory factor expression. Moreover, PU could decrease expression levels of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, such as IL‐1β, IL‐1α, IL‐6, IL‐8, TNF‐α, IL‐17A, IL‐22, IL‐23A, and reactive oxygen species (ROS), followed by keratinocyte proliferation inhibition in the M5‐stimulated cell line model of inflammation through inhibition of mitogen‐activated protein kinases/extracellular regulated protein kinases (MAPK/ERK) and nuclear factor kappaB (NF‐κB) signaling pathways. Our results indicate that PU may serve as a promising nutritional intervention for psoriasis by ameliorating cellular oxidative stress and inflammation.
Recent Advances in Light Detection and Ranging: Optical Modulation Solutions and Novel Nanotechnologies
Authors: Chen Jun‐Da , Miao Wen‐Chien , Hong Yu‐Heng , Kuo Hao‐Chung
Published: November 2023

Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) sensor is widely recognized as a critical component for accurate perception. However, there are a host of challenges that impede their performance, including low spatial resolution, high costs, large size, low reliability, and susceptibility to interference. It is challenging to overcome these issues using a single LiDAR module, necessitating the need for a review of current LiDAR technologies. The paper commences by introducing the fundamental principles of various laser rangefinders and discussing the optical modulation technologies used to prevent interference and ghost images. Next, the paper delves into the latest developments in laser technology, with a focus on enhancing the switching rate, compliance with eye safety regulations, miniaturization, and improving stability. One highly promising innovation is the photonic crystal surface emitting laser (PCSEL), a novel light source that boasts high‐speed, small divergence angles, and high‐power output. Finally, the paper discusses the advancements made in non‐solid‐state scanning and solid‐state scanning, such as improving stability, increasing scanning angles, and optimizing the manufacturing of mechanical and micro‐electromechanical systems (MEMS). Additionally, the paper highlights the recent advancements in nanotechnology, specifically metasurface technology, which offers superior capabilities such as beam deflection, enhanced field‐of‐view (FOV), and dynamic modulation.
Quantification of systemic importance of SDGs in Asian‐African countries: A network hierarchy analysis
Authors: Wang Yuanhui , Song Changqing , Gao Peichao
Published: November 2023

Asian‐African countries face challenges in achieving the 2030 Agenda and require scientific support for progress. Studies have focused on reorganizing important Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and targets to assess their priorities in these countries considering internal interactions. While previous studies mainly considered first‐order interactions among SDGs, some scholars have emphasized the significance of high‐order interactions that amplify SDG impacts and lead to systemic transformations. To address this, we propose a network hierarchy analysis‐based method to quantify what we called “systemic importance” of SDGs considering high‐order interactions of SDGs in 26 Asian‐African countries using country‐specific target level interaction networks. By analyzing the results, we draw the following conclusions. Goals 13–17 have the highest systemic importance, with the majority of targets being important in the system. Goals with lower systemic importance still include exceptional targets, such as targets related to technological capacity, international representation, and scholarships within Goals 4, 10, and 12, respectively. The rankings of systemic importance for targets and SDGs are similar among the 26 Asian‐African countries, but Lao PDR and Indonesia exhibit larger numerical ranges that require further attention to systemically important targets and goals. Additionally, certain countries show significantly higher systemic importance in specific goals, such as Goal 4 in the Republic of Korea and Goal 7 in Singapore. This study offers quantitative support for prioritizing SDGs in Asian‐African countries by considering the profound impacts resulting from high‐order interactions.