bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Centrality depression–anxiety symptoms linked to suicidal ideation among depressed college students––A network approach
Authors: Tao Yanqiang , Wang Shujian , Tang Qihui , Ma Zijuan , Zhang Liang , Liu Xiangping
Published: July 2023

The long‐term effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic have caused severe mental health problems among college students, which can eventually cause suicidal ideation. Therefore, through network analysis, this study aims to explore the new characteristics of the depression–anxiety symptom network that arose during the long‐term lockdown of the COVID‐19 pandemic and to identify the most influential symptoms linked to suicidal ideation. We used a Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐9) score above 10 as the cutoff and screened 622 participants with an inclination toward depressive disorders from 7976 college students, and then divided the sample into suicidal and nonsuicidal groups based on the presence or absence of suicidal ideation. The General Anxiety Disorder scale (GAD‐7) was also used. Network analysis was used to identify the network structure of anxiety–depression and which symptoms were directly related to suicidal ideation in the network. The prevalence of depression and anxiety among Chinese college students in the late stage of the COVID‐19 pandemic was 7.8% and 17.8%, respectively. The most central symptoms in the nonsuicidal group were “excessive worry,” “uncontrollable worry,” and “nervousness,” and in the suicidal group they were “excessive worry,” “motor function,” and “irritability.” The network of the suicidal group was denser than that of the nonsuicidal group. The most influential symptom directly related to suicidal ideation was “guilt.” The most influential central symptom of depression–anxiety comorbidity characteristics of Chinese adolescents showed a tendency to shift from depression‐oriented (i.e., sad mood) to anxiety‐oriented (i.e., excessive worry) with the continuation of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Treatments or interventions focused on these critical symptoms could be useful in preventing college students from suicide risk.
Methods used to evaluate teacher well‐being: A systematic review
Authors: Fox Harriet B. , Walter Heather L. , Ball Karly B.
Published: July 2023

Teacher stress, burnout, and attrition are well‐documented problems that have been amplified as a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Recent efforts to study and improve teacher well‐being in response to such high levels of burnout are promising. However, the field continues to lack a unified definition of teacher well‐being and consistent use of tools with which to measure teacher well‐being. These inconsistencies may limit the ability to compare interventions and improve teacher well‐being over time. Clarifying how teacher well‐being is defined and operationalized can enable others to understand what a particular intervention or study does or does not improve. This systematic review explored 97 studies of teacher well‐being and documented tools used to measure the construct. The studies reviewed relied on a wide variety of instruments, ranging from mental health tools to subjective well‐being and teacher efficacy measures, with few using specific Teacher Well‐Being Scales. Findings suggest the need for more uniform approaches to measurement and the need for a clearly articulated definition of teacher well‐being that is distinct from stress or burnout. Researchers recommend the use of a multifactor scale that includes elements of teacher efficacy, school support, workload and time pressure, and job satisfaction.
Recent advances on visible light induced cationic polymerization
Authors: Feng Xiaohu , Liu Ruofan , Liu Lei , Jin Yushun , Shi Qisong , Yan Penghua , Wu Yibo
Published: July 2023

Cationic polymerization is an important branch of polymer chemistry. Traditional cationic polymerization must be carried out in anhydrous and low temperature environment, with harsh operating conditions, high operating costs and high energy consumption. Visible light induced cationic polymerization is simple, environmentally friendly, and low‐cost, so it has become a research hotspot of living cationic polymerization. This paper gives an overview of the recent advances (mainly from 2015 to 2023) on visible‐light‐induced cationic polymerization, with a focus on visible‐light‐initiated and visible‐light‐controlled cationic polymerization. On the basis of controlling cationic polymerization to achieve macromolecular reaction engineering, the realization of temporal scale control will be the main development direction in the future.
Improving quality of life and symptom experience in patients with metastatic breast cancer: A systematic review of supportive care interventions
Authors: Keane Danielle , Phillips Grace , Mitchell Nicola , Connolly Roisin M. , Hegarty Josephine
Published: July 2023

Objective

The prognosis for individuals with metastatic breast cancer (MBC) has improved in recent decades. This expanding cohort has unique psychological and psychosocial needs, yet targeted supportive care interventions are underdeveloped. This systematic review seeks to summarise the available evidence on the effectiveness of supportive care interventions in improving quality of life and symptom experience of individuals living with MBC so that services can be developed to address the unmet needs of this cohort in future.

Methods

Academic Search Complete, CINAHL, ERIC, Medline and SocINDEX were searched for publications investigating the effect of supportive care interventions specifically targeted at addressing the quality of life or symptom experience of individuals living with MBC. Three reviewers independently screened and selected studies. Quality appraisal and assessed risk of bias were carried out.

Results

The search yielded 1972 citations. Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria. Interventions included psychological (n = 3), end of life discussion and preparation (n = 2), physical activity (n = 4), lifestyle (n = 2), and medication self‐management support (n = 2). Three studies reported significant improvement in quality of life, two of which reported improved symptom experience in at least one symptom. Three further physical activity interventions showed improvement in at least one of the symptoms investigated.

Conclusion

Studies reporting a statistically significant effect on quality of life and improved symptom experience were extremely heterogenous. We can tentatively suggest that multimodal and frequently administered interventions are effective, with physical activity interventions positively impacting on symptom experience, however further research is required.
Determination of Hansen Parameters of Nanoparticles: A Comparison of Two Methods Using Titania, Carbon Black, and Silicon/Carbon Composite Materials
Authors: Anwar Osama , Amin Amin Said , Amin Adil , Kräenbring Mena‐Alexander , Özcan Fatih , Segets Doris
Published: July 2023

Hansen solubility parameters (HSPs), for particles understood as Hansen similarity parameters, can provide valuable information about the surface behavior of nanoparticles. In the past years, several methodologies are developed for scoring and ranking of probe liquids for HSP determination. Two methods available to carry out this determination in a structured way are based on integral extinctions (IE) by Süß et al. and particle size determinations by Anwar et al., respectively. In this study, these two methods of HSP determination are applied on titania, carbon black, and silicon/carbon composites. The differences in scoring and subsequent ranking of a probe liquid list are compared between both methods. Comparable HSPs from both methods are reported as a best‐practice example and additional considerations that need to be considered to properly derive HSPs from the IE‐based method are emphasized.
Influence of barrel diameter on exploding foil initiators
Authors: Wang Yao , Wang Shaoyi , Tang Duo , Wang Wanjun , He Bi , Chu Genbai , Wang Liang
Published: July 2023

Exploding foil initiators (EFIs) offer several safety and timing advantages over other means of initiating high explosives. In order to increase the knowledge about the barrel diameter on sensitivity of HNS‐IV, several samples with different barrel diameter were investigated. Mean threshold voltage, and flyer velocity were measured and compared. Meanwhile, we present the flyer images with restricted condition of EFIs during flight by X‐ray phase contrast imaging system at the 45 TW laser facility at China Academy of Engineering Physics. The barrel diameter has a related to mean threshold voltage of EFIs. The lowest mean threshold voltage is 2830 V with 0.4 mm barrel diameter. The mean threshold voltage is increased by about 54 % as the barrel diameter decreases from 0.4 mm to 0.2 mm. But the decreased barrel diameter significantly increased the flyer velocity. The dynamic flyer image gives the evidence to prove that the impacting width of flyer is the key parameter of EFIs. The impacting width of flyer is related to barrel diameter. Meanwhile, the curvature of the flyer is related to barrel diameter and exploding foil width. This fundamental understanding has led to increased knowledge on the mechanism of EFIs and has allowed us to improve our predictive capability through modeling.
Effects of fungicide application on physiological and molecular responses of grapevine (Vitis vinifera L.): a comparison between copper and sulfur fungicides applied alone and in combination with novel fungicides
Authors: Moine Amedeo , Pugliese Massimo , Monchiero Matteo , Gribaudo Ivana , Gullino Maria Lodovica , Pagliarani Chiara , Gambino Giorgio
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND

Chemical products against fungi and oomycetes pose serious environmental issues. In the last decade, the use of less impacting active ingredients was encouraged to reduce chemical inputs in viticulture. In this study, the effect of different antifungal compounds on grapevine agronomic, physiological, and molecular responses in the vineyard was evaluated in addition to protection against powdery and downy mildews.

RESULTS

In 2 years and in two Vitis vinifera cultivars (Nebbiolo and Arneis), a conventional crop protection approach, based on traditional fungicides (sulfur and copper), was compared to combined strategies. A well‐known resistance inducer (potassium phosphonate), Bacillus pumilus strain QST 2808 and calcium oxide, both active ingredients whose biological interaction with grapevine is poorly characterized, were applied in the combined strategies in association with chemical fungicides. Despite a genotype effect occurred, all treatments optimally controlled powdery and downy mildews, with minimal variations in physiological and molecular responses. Gas exchange, chlorophyll content and photosystem II efficiency increased in treated plants at the end of season, along with a slight improvement in the agronomic performances, and an activation of molecular defense processes linked to stilbene and jasmonate pathways.

CONCLUSION

The disease control strategies based on potassium phosphonate, Bacillus pumilus strain QST 2808 or calcium oxide combined with traditional chemical compounds did not cause severe limitations in plant ecophysiology, grape quality, and productive yields. The combination of potassium phosphonate and calcium oxide with traditional fungicides can represent a valuable strategy for reducing copper and sulfur inputs in the vineyards, including those organically managed. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on ethnically diverse communities
Authors: O'Donnell James , Evans Ann , Reynolds Katherine J.
Published: July 2023

Ethnically diverse communities are potentially exposed to multiple and compounding impacts of COVID‐19, owing to social and cultural interactions, household crowding, employment in exposed occupations and other socioeconomic conditions. In this study, we quantify and analyse these impacts for local councils in Australia's two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne across five outcomes: infections, excess deaths, the speed of vaccination, unemployment and breaches of public health orders issued by the Police. Residents of the most linguistically diverse councils in Sydney were 5.6 times more likely to have contracted COVID‐19 up to 1 December 2021 than residents of the least diverse councils and 2.9 times more likely in the most diverse councils in Melbourne. Excess deaths were 27% higher in diverse communities across 2020 and 2021, the time spent unvaccinated was 1.3 times higher and the increase in the unemployment rate was between 1.7 and 5.1 times higher depending on the city. Public health breaches were 2.2 times higher in the most diverse areas of Sydney. Spatial regression models indicate that the differences in infections, excess deaths, speed of vaccination and public health breaches are largely explained by the economic characteristics of local communities. These disproportionate impacts appear to reflect and reinforce social and economic inequalities and pose a threat to social cohesion.
Temperature‐Adaptive Modulation of Transverse Magnetic Intrinsic Graphene Plasmons
Authors: Sun Dong , Hua Xiuqin , Wang Lijun , Liu Daqing , Ma Ning
Published: July 2023

A method for modulating transverse magnetic intrinsic graphene plasmons by temperature is proposed. In contrast to existing 2D or 3D infinite graphene structures, an intrinsic graphene 3D finite structure with periodicity in all three directions is designed. At the matching point, where the dispersion curve of the intrinsic graphene plasmons intersects with that of electromagnetic radiation, the intrinsic graphene plasmons and electromagnetic radiation can be excited by each other; in other words, the plasmon can be excited by light without additional mechanisms. Furthermore, the influence of environment temperature on the matching point is shown. The study reveals that the plasmon modulation is adaptive to the temperature. These results are beneficial for the design of compact graphene‐based optoelectronic devices.
Recent insights into the nutritional immunomodulation of cancer‐related microRNAs
Authors: Şahin Teslime Özge , Yılmaz Birsen , Yeşilyurt Neslihan , Cicia Donatella , Szymanowska Anna , Amero Paola , Ağagündüz Duygu , Capasso Raffaele
Published: July 2023

Cancer is the most common cause of death worldwide, following cardiovascular diseases. Cancer is a multifactorial disease and many reasons such as physical, chemical, biological, and lifestyle‐related factors. Nutrition, which is one of the various factors that play a role in the prevention, development, and treatment of many types of cancer, affects the immune system, which is characterized by disproportionate pro‐inflammatory signaling in cancer. Studies investigating the molecular mechanisms of this effect have shown that foods rich in bioactive compounds, such as green tea, olive oil, turmeric, and soybean play a significant role in positively changing the expression of miRNAs involved in the regulation of genes associated with oncogenic/tumor‐suppressing pathways. In addition to these foods, some diet models may change the expression of specific cancer‐related miRNAs in different ways. While Mediterranean diet has been associated with anticancer effects, a high‐fat diet, and a methyl‐restricted diet are considered to have negative effects. This review aims to discuss the effects of specific foods called “immune foods,” diet models, and bioactive components on cancer by changing the expression of miRNAs in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
Event‐triggered nonfragile state estimation for delayed neural networks with additive and multiplicative gain variations
Authors: Karnan Arumugam , Nagamani Gnaneswaran
Published: July 2023

This article aims to design a nonfragile state estimator for neural networks with time‐varying delay under the event‐triggered mechanism. This paper addresses the two most common issues that exist in large‐scale networks: gain variations in the estimator design and lack of network resources. Based on the nonfragile paradigm and an event‐triggered mechanism, an estimator is being developed to address this issue, considering both the additive and multiplicative structured gain variations. Through the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional method and linear matrix inequality technique, sufficient conditions are derived to guarantee the existence of the proposed state estimator by employing the generalized free‐weighting matrix inequality and improved reciprocally convex inequality. Moreover, the obtained linear matrix inequalities provide an explicit expression of the estimator gain matrix and triggering matrix. Eventually, two numerical examples are provided to authenticate the proposed findings.
Implementation of a human‐aware robot navigation module for cooperative soft‐fruit harvesting operations
Authors: Guevara Leonardo , Hanheide Marc , Parsons Simon
Published: July 2023

In the last decades, robotic solutions have been introduced in agriculture to improve the efficiency of tasks such as spraying, plowing, and seeding. However, for a more complex task like soft‐fruit harvesting, the efficiency of experienced human pickers has not been surpassed yet by robotic solutions. Thus, in the immediate future, human labor will probably be still necessary for picking tasks while robotic platforms could be used as collaborators, supporting the pickers in the transportation of the harvested fruit. This cooperative harvesting strategy creates a human–robot interaction (HRI) that requires significant further development in human‐aware safe navigation and effective bidirectional communication of intent. In fact, although agricultural robots are considered small/medium size machinery, they still represent a risk of causing injuries to human collaborators, especially if people are not trained to work with robots or robot operations are not intuitive. Avoiding such injury is the aim of this work which contributes to the development, implementation, and evaluation of a human‐aware navigation (HAN) module that can be integrated into the autonomous navigation system of commercial agricultural robots. The proposed module is responsible for the detection and monitoring of humans working around the robot and uses this information to activate safety actions depending on whether the human presence is considered at risk or not. Apart from ensuring a physically safe HRI, the proposed module deals with the comfort level and psychological safety of human coworkers. The latter is possible by using an explicit human–robot communication strategy that lets both know of the other's intentions, increasing the level of trust and reducing inefficient pauses triggered by unnecessary safety actions. The proposed HAN solution was integrated into a commercial agricultural robot and tested in several situations that are expected to happen during cooperative harvesting operations. The results of an usability assessment illustrated the benefits of the proposal in terms of safety, efficiency, and ergonomics.
Teacher‐perceived science inquiry‐based instructional practice on student achievement and motivational beliefs in classroom contexts
Authors: Liou Pey‐Yan , Myoung Eunjung
Published: July 2023

A hotly debated topic is the effectiveness of inquiry‐based instructional practice in science classrooms on student achievement and motivation. Numerous studies based on multinational large‐scale education data show such student‐centered instructional practice positively led to students' motivational beliefs but was negatively associated with science achievement. Current literature, however, drew such a conclusion based on the measures of instructional practice from students' perceptions, not teachers, despite teachers being the subject matter experts and actual implementers of classroom activities. Thus, this study examined the relationships between teacher‐perceived instructional practice, science motivational beliefs, and science achievement. Specifically, this study investigated the predictive effects of instructional practices on aggregated student motivational beliefs (i.e., self‐concept, utility value, and intrinsic value) and science achievement in the classroom context. Moreover, the study explored the contextual effects of student motivational beliefs on science achievement. We examined 3861 eighth graders' data nested within 168 science classrooms in the Korean portion of the latest Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study using multilevel structural equation modeling. The results showed that the inquiry‐based instructional approach did not predict science achievement or motivational beliefs at the classroom level. On the other hand, student self‐concept and utility value positively predicted individual achievement, while classroom‐level utility value statistically predicted average classroom achievement. In other words, the significant effect of classroom‐level utility value on achievement was beyond the effect of individual utility value. The unique contributions of the study lie in advancing the science education literature with a fresh reflection on such relationships by using a less examined data source (i.e., teacher perceptions), focusing on the classroom context (i.e., classroom‐level science motivational beliefs and achievement), and situating in an underrepresented country (i.e., Korea) in the literature. The results shed light on the discrepancies in the effectiveness of instructional practice perceived by teachers versus students on desired educational outcomes in a learning context. This study also discusses the practical and methodological implications for instructional and motivational research.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Isothiocyanates from Amines Mediated by Carbon Tetrabromide
Authors: Techapanalai Saharat , Annuur Rose Malina , Sukwattanasinitt Mongkol , Wacharasindhu Sumrit
Published: July 2023

In this work, we successfully prepared isothiocyanates in one‐pot manner from the corresponding amines using carbon tetrabromide as a desulfurizing agent. The in situ formation of dithiocarbamate salts from amines followed by desulfurization using carbon disulfide provided various isothiocyanates in good to excellent yields. Moreover, our method can be extended to prepare unsymmetrical thioureas in one‐pot process. Both methods are applicable to large scale synthesis. The benefits of this reaction include one‐pot synthesis, mild condition, simple operation, and metal‐free process.
Life stress and adiposity in mothers: A 14‐year follow‐up in the general population
Authors: Hoepel Sanne J. W. , Schuurmans Isabel K. , Cecil Charlotte A. M. , Jaddoe Vincent W. V. , Luik Annemarie I.
Published: July 2023

Exposure to specific stressors has been found to associate with higher adiposity in adulthood. However, the potential overlapping effects of stress domains have been overlooked, as well as the role of parenting‐related stressors that mothers are widely exposed to in mid‐adulthood. Therefore, we assessed the association of overlapping effects of stress domains, including parenting‐related stress, with subsequent adiposity in mothers. In 3957 mothers from the population‐based Generation R Study, life stress was assessed during the first 10 years of child‐rearing and measured as a reflective latent variable of stress domains. Structural equation modelling was used to assess the association of life stress and its individual domains with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference after 14 years of follow‐up. Greater life stress over the course of 10 years was associated with a higher BMI (standardized adjusted difference: 0.57 kg/m2 [95% CI: 0.41–0.72]) and a larger waist circumference (1.15 cm [0.72–1.57]). When examining individual stress domains, we found that life events was independently associated with a higher BMI (0.16 kg/m2) and contextual stress was independently associated with a higher BMI (0.43 kg/m2) and larger waist circumference (1.04 cm). Parenting stress and interpersonal stress were not independently associated with adiposity at follow‐up. The overlap of multiple domains of stress in mothers is associated with a higher risk of adiposity. This effect was stronger than for individual life stress domains, reiterating the need to consider overlapping effects of different life stress domains.
Recent Advances in Co‐Based Electrocatalysts for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Bin , Yang Fulin , Feng Ligang
Published: July 2023

Water splitting is a promising technique in the sustainable “green hydrogen” generation to meet energy demands of modern society. Its industrial application is heavily dependent on the development of novel catalysts with high performance and low cost for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). As a typical non‐precious metal, cobalt‐based catalysts have gained tremendous attention in recent years and shown a great prospect of commercialization. However, the complexity of the composition and structure of newly‐developed Co‐based catalysts make it urgent to comprehensively retrospect and summarize their advance and design strategies. Hence, in this review, the reaction mechanism of HER is first introduced and the possible role of the Co component during electrocatalysis is discussed. Then, various design strategies that could effectively enhance the intrinsic activity are summarized, including surface vacancy engineering, heteroatom doping, phase engineering, facet regulation, heterostructure construction, and the support effect. The recent progress of the advanced Co‐based HER electrocatalysts is discussed, emphasizing that the application of the above design strategies can significantly improve performance by regulating the electronic structure and optimizing the binding energy to the crucial intermediates. At last, the prospects and challenges of Co‐based catalysts are shown according to the viewpoint from fundamental explorations to industrial applications.
A Responsive Nanorobot Modulates Intracellular Zinc Homeostasis to Amplify Mitochondria‐Targeted Phototherapy
Authors: Zhou Xinyuan , Zhou Anwei , Tian Zihan , Chen Weiwei , Xu Yurui , Ning Xinghai , Chen Kerong
Published: July 2023

Zinc has been proven to interweave with many critical cell death pathways, and not only exhibits potent anticancer activity solely, but sensitizes cancer cells to anticancer treatment, making zinc supplementation ideal for boosting odds against malignancy. Herein, a smart nanorobot (termed as Zinger) is developed, composed of iRGD‐functionalized liposome encapsulating black phosphorus nanosheet (BPNs) doped zeolite imidazole framework‐8 (BPN@ZIF‐8), for advancing zinc‐promoted photodynamic therapy (PDT). Zinger exhibits photo‐triggered sequential mitochondria‐targeting ability, and can induce zinc overload‐mediated mitochondrial stress, which consequently sensitized tumor to PDT through synergistically modulating reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and p53 pathway. It is identified that Zinger selectively triggered intracellular zinc overload and photodynamic effect in cancer cells, which together enhanced PDT treatment outcomes. Importantly, Zinger shows high efficacy in overcoming various treatment barriers, allowing for effectively killing cancer cells in the complex circumstances. Particularly, Zinger exhibits good tumor accumulation, penetration, and even cell uptake, and can respond to light stimulation to eliminate tumors while avoiding normal tissues, thereby prolonging survival of tumor‐bearing mice. Therefore, the study provides a novel insight in the development of novel zinc‐associated therapy for advancing cancer treatment approaches.
Biomineralized RuO2 Nanozyme with Multi‐Enzyme Activity for Ultrasound‐Triggered Peroxynitrite‐Boosted Ferroptosis
Authors: Liu Shikai , Li Wenting , Ding He , Tian Boshi , Fang Linyang , Zhao Xudong , Zhao Ruoxi , An Baichao , Ding Lianfei , Zhong Lei , Yang Piaoping
Published: July 2023

Ferroptosis, as a non‐apoptotic cell death pathway, has attracted increasing attention for cancer therapy. However, the clinical application of ferroptosis‐participated modalities is severely limited by the low efficiency owing to the intrinsic intracellular regulation pathways. Herein, chlorin e6 (Ce6) and N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine‐conjugated bovine serum albumin‐ruthenium dioxide is elaborately designed and constructed for ultrasound‐triggered peroxynitrite‐mediated ferroptosis. Upon ultrasound stimulation, the sonosensitizers of Ce6 and RuO2 exhibit highly efficient singlet oxygen (1O2) generation capacity, which is sequentially amplified by superoxide dismutase and catalase‐mimicking activity of RuO2 with hypoxia relief. Meanwhile, the S‐nitrosothiol group in BCNR breaks off to release nitric oxide (NO) on‐demand, which then reacts with 1O2 forming highly cytotoxic peroxynitrite (ONOO−) spontaneously. Importantly, BCNR nanozyme with glutathione peroxidase‐mimicking activity can consume glutathione (GSH), along with the generated ONOO− downregulates glutathione reductase, avoiding GSH regeneration. The two‐parallel approach ensures complete depletion of GSH within the tumor, resulting in the boosted ferroptosis sensitization of cancer cells. Thus, this work presents a superior paradigm for designing peroxynitrite‐boosted ferroptosis sensitization cancer therapeutic.
Highly Efficient Electrochemical Hydrogen Evolution with Ultra‐Low Loading of Strongly Adhered Pt Nanoparticles on Carbon
Authors: Chakraborty Soumita , Servottam Swaraj , Samal Pankaj Kumar , Kalita Daizy , Rao Ankit , Bagchi Debabrata , Peter Sebastian C , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy
Published: July 2023

The development of robust electrocatalysts with low platinum content for acidic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is paramount for large scale commercialization of proton exchange membrane electrolyzers. Herein, a simple strategy is reported to synthesize a well anchored, low Pt containing Vulcan carbon catalyst using ZnO as a sacrificial template. Pt containing ZnO (PZ) is prepared by a simultaneous borohydride reduction. PZ is then loaded onto Vulcan carbon to produce a very low Pt content electrocatalyst, PZ@VC. PZ@VC with 2 wt.% Pt shows excellent performance for acidic HER in comparison to the commercial Pt/C (20 wt.%) catalyst. PZ@VC with a very low Pt loading shows significantly low η10 and η100 values (15 and 46 mV, respectively). PZ@VC on coating with Nafion (PZ@VC‐N) shows further improvement in its performance (η10 of 7 mV, η100 of 28 mV) with ≈300 h of stability (≈10 mA cm−2) with only 4 µgPt cm−2. PZ@VC‐N shows a record high mass activity of 71 A mgPt−1 (32 times larger than Pt/C (20 wt.%) at 50 mV of overpotential. Post reaction characterizations reveal Pt nanoparticles are embedded onto VC with no traces of zinc, suggestive of a strong metal‐support interaction leading to this high stability at low Pt loading.
Forensic experts' view of forensic‐ready software systems: A qualitative study
Authors: Daubner Lukas , Buhnova Barbora , Pitner Tomas
Published: July 2023

Software engineers widely acknowledge the inclusion of security requirements in the early stages of the development process. However, the need to prepare the software for the failure of the implemented security controls and subsequent investigation of the incident is often not discussed. Forensic‐ready software systems represent an evolution of secure systems being designed for the eventual digital forensic investigation. However, their exact properties remain largely unexplored, beyond preliminary high‐level conceptualizations of requirements and capabilities. Further obstacles hindering the adoption of forensic‐ready software systems are the different priorities and goals of involved parties and a gap in the digital forensics expertise of software engineers. In this paper, we conduct an empirical qualitative study identifying the problems and needs of forensic readiness while framing the notion of an ideal forensic‐ready software system and how it should treat potential evidence. To this end, we conducted semisupervised interviews with digital forensics experts on their idea, experience, and suggestions. The results provide insights into the needs of the experts to facilitate the definition of correct requirements towards forensic‐ready software systems to support the anticipated investigations properly.
Recent Progress in Azobenzene‐Based Supramolecular Materials and Applications
Authors: Younis Muhammad , Ahmad Sadia , Atiq Atia , Amjad Farooq Muhammad , Huang Mu‐Hua , Abbas Manzar
Published: July 2023

Azobenzene‐containing small molecules and polymers are functional photoswitchable molecules to form supramolecular nanomaterials for various applications. Recently, supramolecular nanomaterials have received enormous attention in material science because of their simple bottom‐up synthesis approach, understandable mechanisms and structural features, and batch‐to‐batch reproducibility. Azobenzene is a light‐responsive functional moiety in the molecular design of small molecules and polymers and is used to switch the photophysical properties of supramolecular nanomaterials. Herein, we review the latest literature on supramolecular nano‐ and micro‐materials formed from azobenzene‐containing small molecules and polymers through the combinatorial effect of weak molecular interactions. Different classes including complex coacervates, host‐guest systems, co‐assembled, and self‐assembled supramolecular materials, where azobenzene is an essential moiety in small molecules, and photophysical properties are discussed. Afterward, azobenzene‐containing polymers‐based supramolecular photoresponsive materials formed through the host‐guest approach, polymerization‐induced self‐assembly, and post‐polymerization assembly techniques are highlighted. In addition to this, the applications of photoswitchable supramolecular materials in pH sensing, and CO2 capture are presented. In the end, the conclusion and future perspective of azobenzene‐based supramolecular materials for molecular assembly design, and applications are given.
Chemistry Aspects and Designing Strategies of Flexible Materials for High‐Performance Flexible Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Khurram Tufail Muhammad , Ahmed Adeel , Rafiq Muhammad , Asif Nawaz Muhammad , Shoaib Ahmad Shah Syed , Sohail Manzar , Sufyan Javed Muhammad , Najam Tayyaba , Althomali Raed H. , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: July 2023

In recent years, flexible and wearable electronics such as smart cards, smart fabrics, bio‐sensors, soft robotics, and internet‐linked electronics have impacted our lives. In order to meet the requirements of more flexible and adaptable paradigm shifts, wearable products may need to be seamlessly integrated. A great deal of effort has been made in the last two decades to develop flexible lithium‐ion batteries (FLIBs). The selection of suitable flexible materials is important for the development of flexible electrolytes self‐supported and supported electrodes. This review is focused on the critical discussion of the factors that evaluate the flexibility of the materials and their potential path toward achieving the FLIBs. Following this analysis, we present how to evaluate the flexibility of the battery materials and FLIBs. We describe the chemistry of carbon‐based materials, covalent‐organic frameworks (COFs), metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), and MXene‐based materials and their flexible cell design that represented excellent electrochemical performances during bending. Furthermore, the application of state‐of‐the‐art solid polymer and solid electrolytes to accelerate the development of FLIBs is introduced. Analyzing the contributions and developments of different countries has also been highlighted in the past decade. In addition, the prospects and potential of flexible materials and their engineering are also discussed, providing the roadmap for further developments in this fast‐evolving field of FLIB research.
Scoparone inhibits the development of hepatocellular carcinoma by modulating the p38 MAPK/Akt/NF‐κB signaling in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease mice
Authors: Ye Miaoqing , Liu Chunyan , Liu Jiaojiao , Lu Fenping , Xue Jingdong , Li Fenping , Tang Yinghui
Published: July 2023

Background and study aim

The mechanisms underlying the progression of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) into hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains confusing and the therapeutics approaches are also challenging. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of scoparone on the treatment of HCC stemmed from NAFLD and the underlying mechanisms.

Materials and methods

A model of NAFLD‐HCC was created in mice, and these mice were treated with scoparone. Biochemical assays were conducted to assess the levels of biochemical markers. Tumors were evaluated through morphological examination. Histopathological analyses were performed using oil red O, Hematoxylin and Eosin, and Masson coloration assays. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and RT‐PCR were performed to analyze protein expression and measure mRNA expression levels, respectively.

Results

Scoparone could ameliorate the pathological alterations observed in NAFLD‐HCC mouse model. IHC analysis indicated an upregulation of NF‐κB p65 expression in both NAFLD and NAFLD‐HCC models, which was subsequently reverted by scoparone administration. Furthermore, scoparone treatment resulted in a reversal of the increased mRNA expression levels of NF‐κB target genes, including TNF‐α, MCP‐1, iNOS, COX‐2, NF‐κB, and MMP‐9, which were originally elevated in the NAFLD‐HCC condition. Additionally, scoparone exhibited a capacity to counteract the activation of the MAPK/Akt signaling in the NAFLD‐HCC model.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that scoparone holds promise as a potential therapeutic agent for NAFLD‐associated HCC, and its model of action may involve the regulation of inflammatory pathways governed by the MAPK/Akt/NF‐κB signaling cascade.
Catalpol ameliorates inflammation and oxidative stress via regulating Sirt1 and activating Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling against acute kidney injury
Authors: Zhang Manli , Qiang Yanjuan
Published: July 2023

Background

Septic acute kidney injury (SAKI) is usually caused by sepsis. It has been shown that catalpol (Cat) impairs sepsis‐evoked organ dysfunction to a certain degree. The current work aims to evaluate the protective effects of Cat on SAKI and potential mechanisms in vivo and in vitro.

Methods

SAKI cellular and murine model were set up using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in vitro and in vivo. Cell apoptosis in cells was determined by TUNEL assay. Levels of inflammatory cytokines were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The levels of the markers of oxidative injury were evaluated by corresponding commercial kits. Protein levels were assayed via western blotting and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining.

Results

The results demonstrated that LPS upregulated TNF‐α, IL‐6, and malondialdehyde levels, and downregulated superoxide dismutase, whereas Cat treated cells have the opposite results. Functional assays displayed that Cat remarkably reversed the LPS‐challenged damage as the impairment of TNF‐α and IL‐6 levels, oxidative stress, and the apoptosis in HK‐2 cells. Moreover, knockdown of Sirtuin 1 (Sirt1) counteracted the suppressive impact of Cat on LPS‐triggered inflammatory response, oxidative stress, and renal damage. Further, Cat elevated Sirt1 expression and activated the Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling in LPS‐engendered SAKI in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

Our study clearly proved that Cat protected against LPS‐induced SAKI via synergic antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory actions by regulating Sirt1 and Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathways.
The activation of SIRT1 ameliorates BPDE‐induced inflammatory damage in BEAS‐2B cells via HMGB1/TLR4/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Lei Yanting , Zhu Yonghang , Mallah Manthar Ali , Lu Ping , Yang Liu , He Xi , Shang Pingping , Chen Yusong , Zhou Xiaolei , Feng Feifei , Zhang Qiao
Published: July 2023

Benzo(a)pyrene‐7,8‐dihydrodiol‐9,10‐epoxide (BPDE), the metabolite of environmental pollutant benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) could induce pulmonary toxicity and inflammation. SIRT1, an NAD+ ‐dependent histone deacetylase, is known to regulate inflammation in the occurrence and development of various diseases, but its effects on BPDE‐induced acute lung injury are still unknown. The present study aimed to explore the role of SIRT1 in BPDE‐induced acute lung injury. Here, human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells (BEAS‐2B) cells were stimulated with BPDE at different concentrations (0.50, 0.75, and 1.00 μmol/L) for 24 h, we found that the levels of cytokines in the supernatant were increased and the expression of SIRT1 in cells was down‐regulated, at the same time, BPDE stimulation up‐regulated the protein expression of HMGB1, TLR4, and p‐NF‐κBp65 in BEAS‐2B cells. Then the activator and inhibitor of SIRT1 were used before BPDE exposure, it was shown that the activation of SIRT1 significantly attenuated the levels of inflammatory cytokines and HMGB1, and reduced the expression of HMGB1, AC‐HMGB1, TLR4, and p‐NF‐κBp65 protein; while these results were reversed by the inhibition of SIRT1. This study revealed that the SIRT1 activation may protect against BPDE‐induced inflammatory damage in BEAS‐2B cells by regulating the HMGB1/TLR4/NF‐κB pathway.
The additive value of CA19.9 monitoring in a pancreatic cyst surveillance program
Authors: Levink Iris J. M. , Jaarsma Sanne C. , Koopmann Brechtje D. M. , van Riet Priscilla A. , Overbeek Kasper A. , Meziani Jihane , Sprij Marloes L. J. A. , Casadei Riccardo , Ingaldi Carlo , Polkowski Marcin , Engels Megan M. L. , van der Waaij Laurens A. , Carrara Silvia , Pando Elizabeth , Vornhülz Marlies , Honkoop Pieter , Schoon Erik J. , Laukkarinen Johanna , Bergmann Jilling F. , Rossi Gemma , van Vilsteren Frederike G. I. , van Berkel Anne‐Marie , Tabone Trevor , Schwartz Matthijs P. , Tan Adriaan C. I. T. L. , van Hooft Jeanin E. , Quispel Rutger , van Soest Ellert , Czacko Laszlo , Bruno Marco J. , Cahen Djuna L. ,   the PACYFIC‐registry work group
Published: July 2023

Background

Surveillance of pancreatic cysts focuses on the detection of (mostly morphologic) features warranting surgery. European guidelines consider elevated CA19.9 as a relative indication for surgery. We aimed to evaluate the role of CA19.9 monitoring for early detection and management in a cyst surveillance population.

Methods

The PACYFIC‐registry is a prospective collaboration that investigates the yield of pancreatic cyst surveillance performed at the discretion of the treating physician. We included participants for whom at least one serum CA19.9 value was determined by a minimum follow‐up of 12 months.

Results

Of 1865 PACYFIC participants, 685 met the inclusion criteria for this study (mean age 67 years, SD 10; 61% female). During a median follow‐up of 25 months (IQR 24, 1966 visits), 29 participants developed high‐grade dysplasia (HGD) or pancreatic cancer. At baseline, CA19.9 ranged from 1 to 591 kU/L (median 10 kU/L [IQR 14]), and was elevated (≥37 kU/L) in 64 participants (9%). During 191 of 1966 visits (10%), an elevated CA19.9 was detected, and these visits more often led to an intensified follow‐up (42%) than those without an elevated CA19.9 (27%; p < 0.001). An elevated CA19.9 was the sole reason for surgery in five participants with benign disease (10%). The baseline CA19.9 value was (as continuous or dichotomous variable at the 37 kU/L threshold) not independently associated with HGD or pancreatic cancer development, whilst a CA19.9 of ≥ 133 kU/L was (HR 3.8, 95% CI 1.1–13, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

In this pancreatic cyst surveillance cohort, CA19.9 monitoring caused substantial harm by shortening surveillance intervals (and performance of unnecessary surgery). The current CA19.9 cutoff was not predictive of HGD and pancreatic cancer, whereas a higher cutoff may decrease false‐positive values. The role of CA19.9 monitoring should be critically appraised prior to implementation in surveillance programs and guidelines.
Enhancing heat transfer with 50%–50% water‐ethylene glycol hybrid nanofluid flow over a nonlinear stretching sheet
Authors: Sulochana Chalavadi , Kumar Tiruamala Prasanna
Published: July 2023

In this article thermophysical properties of nanoparticles with water‐ethylene glycol mixture and its impact in augmenting of heat transport is presented. Boundary layer flow over a stretching surface with simultaneous effects of viscous dissipation, radiation, electric and magnetic field are taken into account. Self‐similarity transformation is utilized to modify the flow governing equations into system of differential equations and solved by shooting method. Program code is validated with existing results in literature and results shows good agreement. Influence of various physical parameters are visualized and Nusselt number, skin friction quantities are computed. We have observed that application of electric field increases Nusselt number. Eckert number decreases the Nusselt number for both nanofluid and hybrid nanofluid.
Excursus: The Thorndyke Novels and the Language of Science
Authors: Link Sarah J.
Published: July 2023

This brief excursus focuses on Austin Freeman’s detective Dr. Thorndyke and on the means by which lists construct knowledge that then awards the detective authority. In contrast to the texts discussed in previous chapters, the Thorndyke novels have their readers share the story world position of Thorndyke’s assistant, who is constantly amazed by Thorndyke’s deductive powers and, through him, by the explanatory power of science. Thorndyke incessantly emphasizes the importance of facts and data, but it is usually his lists of hypotheses (rather than any particular piece of evidence) that move the case forward. Thorndyke’s lists afford objectivity and mastery. The list form’s close entanglement with scientific practices helps to endow Thorndyke’s statements with authority and a veneer of scientificity.
Prospektive Vergleichsanalyse von CI-Patienten mit einseitiger Taubheit und asymmetrischem Hörverlust hinsichtlich der gesundheitsbezogenen Lebensqualität, Tinnitusbelastung und psychischen Komorbiditäten
Authors: Bassiouni Mohamed , Häußler Sophia Marie , Ketterer Manuel Christoph , Szczepek Agnieszka J. , Vater Jana , Hildebrandt Lynn , Gröschel Moritz , Olze Heidi
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund

Patient:innen mit einseitiger Taubheit („single-sided deafness“, SSD) und asymmetrischem Hörverlust („asymmetric hearing loss“, AHL) werden zunehmend mit Cochleaimplantaten (CI) versorgt, da eine Verbesserung der auditiven Fähigkeiten und der Lebensqualität nachgewiesen wurde. Bisher gibt es nur wenige Veröffentlichungen, in denen die beiden Gruppen vergleichend untersucht werden. Ziel der vorliegenden Studie war es zu prüfen, worin sich diese beiden Gruppen, insbesondere präoperativ, unterscheiden.

Methodik

Es handelt sich um eine statistische Sekundäranalyse bereits veröffentlichter Rohdaten von 66 CI-Patient:innen (21 SSD/45 AHL), die prospektiv in die Studie eingeschlossen wurden. Neben dem Sprachverstehen wurden Tinnitusbelastung (Tinnitusfragebogen), krankheitsspezifische Lebensqualität (Nijmegen Cochlear Implant Questionnaire, NCIQ), Stressbelastung (Perceived Stress Questionnaire, PSQ) und psychische Komorbiditäten (Allgemeine Depressionsskala, ADS‑L, und Generalized-Anxiety-Disorder-Fragebogen, GAD-7) bei SSD- und AHL-Patient:innen prä- und postoperativ verglichen.

Ergebnisse

Präoperativ zeigte die SSD-Gruppe im NCIQ in den Subdomänen elementare und erweiterte Schallwahrnehmung signifikant höhere Werte als die AHL-Gruppe. Die Stressbelastung (PSQ) und die Angstsymptomatik (GAD-7) waren bei SSD-Patienten signifikant höher als bei AHL-Patient:innen. Diese Unterschiede waren 6 Monate postoperativ stark verringert und teils sogar nicht mehr signifikant.

Schlussfolgerung

Präoperativ unterscheiden sich SSD- und AHL-Patient:innen signifikant im Hinblick auf die subjektive Höreinschätzung und psychosoziale Parameter. Bei SSD-Patient:innen können psychische Belastungsfaktoren einen stärkeren Einfluss auf die gesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität haben als bei AHL-Patient:innen. Diese Aspekte sollten in der präoperativen Beratung sowie in der postoperativen CI-Rehabilitation berücksichtigt werden.