bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Study of Sandplay Therapy for a Boy with Tic
Authors: Sim Hee-og
Published: November 2021

Objectives: This study examined sandplay therapy in an elementary school boy with tic problems. The goal of the therapy was to reduce his tic problems by offering a free and protected space of sandplay therapy.Methods: The sandboxes were analyzed focusing on analytical psychology and theories of sandplay therapy using Turner (2005)’s content themes, which were the most comprehensive themes.Results: Seventy-seven therapy sessions were performed. The client showed a race car that was stuck in the sand and then rescued by forklifts in the initial phase of therapy (1-2, a race car stuck in the sand). In the intermediate phase of the therapy (3-70, struggle), he showed regression, meeting the opposites, victory of small animals, construction, and death. In the final phase of therapy (71-77, race, death II, adaptation to reality), he showed race, death, and adaptation to reality.Conclusion: The client who was entering adolescence saw life as a race. However, the race car that was moving toward masculinity was stuck in the sand. Therefore, the car was sent for repairs. In the middle of the therapy, the boy showed various fights, accidents, and construction. Lastly, there were deaths of an alligator and a bear. By showing a football match, the long journey of developing ego ended. During the therapy, archetypal patterns, such as regression to the primitive psyche, the journey of masculinity as a boy, and confrontation between good and bad, appeared. Sandplay therapy, in a free and protected space, relieved the client’s tic problems with improvement of his daily life. Thus, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of sandplay therapy.
Evaluation of Moisture Sensitivity Performance of Stone Mastic Asphalt Mixes with Additional Filler: A Laboratory Comparison of Dry and Wet Mixing Methods
Authors: CETIN Altan
Published: November 2021

Gap-graded mixtures are one of the areas of improving the permanent deformation strength of hot-mixed asphalt mixtures. Additional filler materials can be needed due to the high bitumen amount and the less fine aggregate amount in the mixture. In this study, the effects of filler additives on moisture susceptibility of the gap-graded hot-mixed asphalt mixtures and mixing methods are investigated. Filler additives such as class C and class F fly ashes and hydrated lime are used 0.5 %, 1.0 %, 2.0 %, and 4 % of the total weight of mixture instead of mineral filler. Design mixtures are prepared according to the Turkish Highway Technical Specifications (THTS). To determine the effect of mixing methods, dry and wet (slurry) methods are used to mix the filler materials. Modified Lottman method (AASHTO T283) are used to determine the moisture susceptibility. An indirect tensile strength test is the measurement of bitumen film thickness which is also conducted. Test results showed that class C fly ash is significantly improved the moisture susceptibility of mixtures. While the slurry method does not give the expected improvement on class C fly ash added mixtures, it shows a positive effect on class F fly ash and hydrated lime added mixtures.
Electoral Performance of New Political Parties in Ukraine: The Context of Electoral Volatility at the Parliamentary Level (1998–2019)
Authors: Romanyuk Anatoliy , Lytvyn Vitaliy
Published: November 2021

This article is devoted to study and comparative analysis of the features and levels of support for new political parties during parliamentary elections in Ukraine, in particular the period 1998–2019. With this in mind, mainly based on the calculations of the indices of overall electoral volatility, intra-system electoral volatility and extra-system electoral volatility, we analyze the parameters of changes in electoral support (by voters) for political parties, in particular new ones, during the 1998–2019 parliamentary elections in Ukraine. In addition, we correlate overall, intra-system and extra-system electoral volatility, and present the correlation of overall electoral volatility in the sample of all political parties as the subjects of electoral processes in Ukraine and political parties elected to the national parliament (the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine). As a result, the study outlines two clusters of extra-system electoral volatility, which show the highest level of similarity, and calculates the dependence of the level of electoral volatility and stability of the party system in Ukraine. With this background, we conclude that electoral volatility in Ukraine is largely determined by the effect of party affiliation or desire to belong to the government or opposition, and is regulated by the special context of identity politics in this country.
Tim Haughton and Kevin Deegan-Krause: The New Party Challenge: Changing Cycles of Party Birth and Death in Central Europe and Beyond
Authors: Hloušek Vít
Published: November 2021

Tim Haughton and Kevin Deegan-Krause: THE NEW PARTY CHALLENGE: CHANGING CYCLES OF PARTY BIRTH AND DEATH IN CENTRAL EUROPE AND BEYOND. Oxford: Oxford University Press. 2020. 290 pages.
“Tape dermatoscopy”: constructing a low-cost dermatoscope using a mobile phone, immersion fluid and transparent adhesive tape
Authors: Blum Andreas , Giacomel Jason
Published: November 2021

Importance: Medical professionals and indeed the general public have an increasing interest in the acquisition of dermatoscopic images of suspect or ambiguous skin lesions. To this end, good dermatoscopic image quality and low costs are important considerations.

Observations: Images of seven lesions (seborrheic keratosis, melanoma in-situ, blue and dermal nevus, basal cell carcinoma and two squamous cell carcinomas) were taken. A novel technique of “tape dermatoscopy” involved:

Using immersion fluid (i.e., water, olive oil, disinfectant spray) placed on the flat or slightly elevated lesion;

Covering the lesion with transparent adhesive tape with lateral tension;

Using ambient indoor or outdoor lighting for illumination (rather than flash photography);

Positioning a photographic device at an angle of approximately 45° from the side of the lesion to avoid light reflection;

Recording a focused image with a mobile phone or digital camera at a distance of approximately 25-30 cm from the lesion; and

Enlarging the image on the screen of the device.

Essential dermatoscopic features enabling a correct diagnosis were visible in 6 of the 7 lesions. “Tape dermatoscopy” images of the lesions were compared to standard dermatoscopy (using a Fotofinder handyscope® in combination with a mobile phone). The latter confirmed the dermatoscopic features in six of seven lesions.

Conclusions and Relevance: “Tape dermatoscopy” images can be recorded by medical personnel and even the general public without a dermatoscope. However, the limitations of this method are that images may be unfocused, exophytic tumors may be difficult to assess, excess pressure on tumoral blood vessels may lead to compression artefact, dermatoscopic features that are only visible under polarized light are unable to be detected (particularly “crystalline” or “chrysalis” structures) and tumors in certain anatomic locations may be difficult to assess (e.g., edges of nose, ears [demonstrated in one case], nails). Comparative prospective studies are necessary in order to test reproducibility of these preliminary findings, to establish special indications for the technique, and to develop guidelines for its effective use.
Complete regression of a melanocytic nevus after epilation with diode laser therapy
Authors: Boleira Manuela , Balassiano Laila Klotz de Almeida , Jeunon Thiago
Published: November 2021

The use of lasers and intense pulsed light (IPL) technology has become an established practice in dermatology and aesthetic medicine. The use of laser therapy and IPL in the treatment of pigmented melanocytic lesions is a controversial issue. We report clinical, dermoscopic and histological changes of a completely regressed pigmented melanocytic nevus after hair removal treatment with the LightSheer™ Diode Laser (Lumenis Ltd, Yokneam, Israel).
Changes in the urinary proteome in rats with regular swimming exercise
Authors: Meng Wenshu , Xu Dan , Meng Yunchen , Zhang Weinan , Xue Yaqi , Zhen Zhiping , Gao Youhe
Published: November 2021

Purpose

Urine can sensitively reflect early pathophysiological changes in the body. The purpose of this study was to explore the changes of urine proteome in rats with regular swimming exercise.

Methods

In this study, experimental rats were subjected to daily moderate-intensity swimming exercise for 7 weeks. Urine samples were collected at weeks 2, 5, and 7 and were analyzed by using liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

Unsupervised clustering analysis of all urinary proteins identified at week 2 showed that the swimming group was distinctively different from the control group. Compared to the control group, a total of 112, 61 and 44 differential proteins were identified in the swimming group at weeks 2, 5 and 7, respectively. Randomized grouping statistical analysis showed that more than 85% of the differential proteins identified in this study were caused by swimming exercise rather than random allocation. According to the Human Protein Atlas, the differential proteins that have human orthologs were strongly expressed in the liver, kidney and intestine. Functional annotation analysis revealed that these differential proteins were involved in glucose metabolism and immunity-related pathways.

Conclusion

Our results revealed that the urinary proteome could reflect significant changes after regular swimming exercise. These findings may provide an approach to monitor the effects of exercise of the body.
“Contrast Freak”: Durkheim’s Homo Duplex Debate
Authors: YÜCEDAĞ İbrahim
Published: November 2021

Bu çalışmada Durkheim’ın uzun zamandır görmezden gelinen homo duplex tartışması konu edinilmiştir. İşlevselcilik içinde değerlendirilen Durkheim’ın yapı-fail düalizminde yapıya ağırlık verdiği ve bireyi ihmal ettiği genel kabul olarak
görülmektedir. İşlevselciliğin kuruluşunda önemli katkıları olan Durkheim’ın özellikle toplumsal yapıya vurgusu makro tartışmaların temelini oluşturmuş, buna kaşın bireyi ve bireyin eylemlerini esas alan mikro tartışmalarda ise
ciddi eleştirilere maruz kalmıştır. Toplumsal işbölümünden yöntem ve din çalışmalarına kadar neredeyse tüm çalışmalarında makro yapıya vurgusu öne çıkarken, zayıf da olsa birey tartışması yürüttüğünü söylemek yanlış olmayacaktır.
Sosyolojinin özellikle psikoloji ve felsefeden ayrı bir bilim dalı olması gerektiğine yaptığı vurguyla da toplumsal olgunun ele alınma şartlarını ortaya koymuştur. Tabii çalışmalarının geneline bakıldığında bir yandan muhafazakâr
öte yandan ciddi bir ahlak felsefecisi gibi görünen Durkheim, toplumsalı anlamada makro bir bakış açısını ön plana çıkarsa da özellikle son dönem özellikle de din çalışmalarında bir yanıyla toplumsal diğer yanıyla da biyolojik
ikili bir yapıya sahip olduğunu belirttiği bireye tartışmasına yöneldiğini görmekteyiz. Bireyi kültürle dolayımlanan biyolojik bir yapı olarak değerlendirir. Bu çalışmayla da, Durkheim’ın birey tartışmasının aslında teorisinin
önemli bir parçası olduğu kendi çalışmalarının eleştirel bir değerlendirmesiyle gösterilmeye çalışılacaktır. Homo duplex tartışmasının dönemin sosyal, siyasal ve kültürel ikliminden bağımsız olmadığı ve son dönem çalışmalarında
birey eksenli bir yönelim gösterdiği vurgulanacaktır.
The Relationship Between The Proactive Personality, Career Adaptation Abilities and Life Satisfaction Of Tourism Students
Authors: AKBABA Melda , ÖZEL Gamze
Published: November 2021

Turizm eğitimi alan öğrencilerin proaktif kişilik, kariyer uyum yetenekleri ile yaşam doyumu arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemeye yönelik yapılan bu çalışmada Kilis 7 Aralık Üniversitesi Etik Kurulu 05/07/2021 tarihli 19 sayılı kararına
göre araştırmanın yapılması uygun bulunmuş ve 344 öğrenciye anket aracılığıyla ulaşılmıştır. Anket aracılığıyla elde edilen verilerle proaktif kişilik, kariyer uyum yetenekleri ve yaşam doyumu arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemeye yönelik
korelasyon, değişkenler arası etkiyi belirlemeye yönelik regresyon analizleri uygulanmıştır. Araştırma değişkenleri arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemeye yönelik yapılan korelasyon analizi sonucuna göre; proaktif kişilik ile yaşam doyumu
arasında pozitif yönde zayıf bir ilişki olduğu, proaktif kişilik ile kariyer uyum yetenekleri boyutlarından kaygı, merak ve güven arasında pozitif yönde orta düzeyde, kontrol boyutu ile arasında ise pozitif yönde yüksek düzeyde
bir ilişki olduğu, yaşam doyumu ile kariyer uyum yetenekleri boyutları arasında ise pozitif yönde zayıf derecede bir ilişki olduğu belirlenmiştir. Araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin proaktif kişiliğinin ve yaşam doyumunun kariyer
uyum yetenekleri boyutları üzerine etkisini belirlemeye yönelik yapılan regresyon analizinin sonuçlarına göre proaktif kişilik ve yaşam doyumu bağımsız değişkenleri kariyer uyum yetenekleri boyutları tarafından istatistiksel olarak
anlamlı bir şekilde açıklanabilmektedir. Bu bağlamda araştırmaya katılan öğrencilerin proaktif kişiliğindeki ve yaşam doyumundaki bir birimlik artış kariyer uyum yetenekleri boyutlarında artış sağlamaktadır. Ayrıca öğrencilerin
kariyer uyum yetenekleri alt boyutlarından en yüksek güven ve kaygı boyutu ifadelerine, en düşük kontrol ve merak boyutu ifadelerine katılım gösterdiği görülmekle birlikte katılımcıların kariyer uyum yetenekleri ve proaktif kişilik
ifadelerine katılım durumlarının ortalamanın üzerinde, yaşam doyumu ifadelerine katılım düzeylerinin ise ortalamanın altında olduğu belirlenmiştir.
SAM‐dPCR: Accurate and Generalist Nuclei Acid Quantification Leveraging the Zero‐Shot Segment Anything Model
Authors: Wei Yuanyuan , Luo Shanhang , Xu Changran , Fu Yingqi , Zhang Yi , Qu Fuyang , Zhang Guoxun , Ho Yi‐Ping , Ho Ho‐Pui , Yuan Wu
Published: December 2024

Digital PCR (dPCR) has transformed nucleic acid diagnostics by enabling the absolute quantification of rare mutations and target sequences. However, traditional dPCR detection methods, such as those involving flow cytometry and fluorescence imaging, may face challenges due to high costs, complexity, limited accuracy, and slow processing speeds. In this study, SAM‐dPCR is introduced, a training‐free open‐source bioanalysis paradigm that offers swift and precise absolute quantification of biological samples. SAM‐dPCR leverages the robustness of the zero‐shot Segment Anything Model (SAM) to achieve rapid processing times (<4 seconds) with an accuracy exceeding 97.10%. This method has been extensively validated across diverse samples and reactor morphologies, demonstrating its broad applicability. Utilizing standard laboratory fluorescence microscopes, SAM‐dPCR can measure nucleic acid template concentrations ranging from 0.154 copies µL−1 to 1.295 × 103 copies µL−1 for droplet dPCR and 0.160 × 103 to 3.629 × 103 copies µL−1 for microwell dPCR. Experimental validation shows a strong linear relationship (r2 > 0.96) between expected and determined sample concentrations. SAM‐dPCR offers high accuracy, accessibility, and the ability to address bioanalytical needs in resource‐limited settings, as it does not rely on hand‐crafted “ground truth” data.
Hepatocyte‐Derived FGF1 Alleviates Isoniazid and Rifampicin‐Induced Liver Injury by Regulating HNF4α‐Mediated Bile Acids Synthesis
Authors: Lin Qian , Zhang Jiaren , Qi Jie , Tong Jialin , Chen Shenghuan , Zhang Sudan , Liu Xingru , Lou Huatong , Lv Jiaxuan , Lin Ruoyu , Xie Junjun , Jin Yi , Wang Yang , Ying Lei , Wu Jiamin , Niu Jianlou
Published: December 2024

Isoniazid and rifampicin co‐therapy are the main causes of anti‐tuberculosis drug‐induced liver injury (ATB‐DILI) and acute liver failure, seriously threatening human health. However, its pathophysiology is not fully elucidated. Growing evidences have shown that fibroblast growth factors (FGFs) play a critical role in diverse aspects of liver pathophysiology. The aim of this study is to investigate the role of FGFs in the pathogenesis of isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF)‐induced liver injury. Through systematic screening, this study finds that hepatic FGF1 expression is significantly downregulated in both mouse model and human patients challenged with INH and RIF. Hepatocyte‐specific Fgf1 deficiency exacerbates INH and RIF‐induced liver injury resulted from elevated bile acids (BAs) synthases and aberrant BAs accumulation. Conversely, pharmacological administration of the non‐mitogenic FGF1 analog – FGF1ΔHBS significantly alleviated INH and RIF‐induced liver injury via restoring BAs homeostasis. Mechanically, FGF1 repressed hepatocyte nuclear factor 4α (Hnf4α) transcription via activating FGF receptor 4 (FGFR4)‐ERK1/2 signaling pathway, thus reducing BAs synthase. The findings demonstrate hepatic FGF1 functions as a negative regulator of BAs biosynthesis to protect against INH and RIF‐induced liver injury via normalizing hepatic BAs homeostasis, providing novel mechanistic insights into the pathogenesis of ATB‐DILI and potential therapeutic strategies for treatment of ATB‐DILI.
Aneurysm Is Restricted by CD34+ Cell‐Formed Fibrous Collars Through the PDGFRb‐PI3K Axis
Authors: Wu Hong , Yang Xiaoping , Chen Ting , Yu Baoqi , Chen Mengjia , Wang Ting , Jiang Liujun , Zhang Bohuan , Zhou Xuhao , Cheng Junning , Chen Kai , Zhang Tao , Hu Yanhua , Xu Simon , Lian Jiangfang , Zhang Hongkun , Xiao Qingzhong , Ye Honghua , Xu Qingbo
Published: December 2024

Aortic aneurysm is a life‐threatening disease caused by progressive dilation of the aorta and weakened aortic walls. Its pathogenesis involves an imbalance between connective tissue repair and degradation. CD34+ cells comprise a heterogeneous population that exhibits stem cell and progenitor cell properties. However, the role of CD34+ cells in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) remains unclear. In this study, downregulated CD34 expression is observed in aneurysmal aortas from both patients and mouse models compared to that in non‐dilated aortas. Furthermore, by combining Cd34‐CreERT2;Rosa26‐tdTomato;(Apoe−/−) lineage tracing, bone marrow transplantation, and single‐cell sequencing, it is found that during AAA development, non‐bone marrow CD34+ cells are activated to transdifferentiate into Periostin+ myofibroblasts, thereby contributing to the formation of fibrotic collars. Dual recombinase‐based lineage tracing confirms the presence and involvement of CD34+/Periostin+ myofibroblasts in fibrotic collar formation during AAA development. Functionally, selective depletion of systemic or non‐bone marrow CD34+ cells, as well as CD34+/Periostin+ myofibroblasts, by diphtheria toxin significantly exacerbates AAA progression and increases disease mortality. Mechanistically, it is identified that the PDGF‐PDGFRb‐PI3K axis is indispensable for Periostin+ myofibroblast generation from non‐bone marrow CD34+ cells in AAA, offering a new therapeutic target for patients with AAA at a high risk of rupture.
One‐Pot Synthesis of Oxygen Vacancy‐Rich Amorphous/Crystalline Heterophase CaWO4 Nanoparticles for Enhanced Radiodynamic‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Peng Shanshan , Chen Zhen , Wang Jun , Yu Meili , Niu Xuegang , Cui Tingting , Ao Rujiang , Cai Huilan , Huang Hongwei , Lin Lisen , Chen Xiaoyuan , Yang Huanghao
Published: December 2024

Radiodynamic therapy that employs X‐rays to trigger localized reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation can tackle the tissue penetration issue of phototherapy. Although calcium tungstate (CaWO4) shows great potential as a radiodynamic agent benefiting from its strong X‐ray absorption and the ability to generate electron–hole (e−‐h+) pairs, slow charge carrier transfer and fast e−‐h+ recombination greatly limit its ROS‐generating performance. Herein, via a one‐pot wet‐chemical method, oxygen vacancy‐rich amorphous/crystalline heterophase CaWO4 nanoparticles (Ov‐a/c‐CaWO4 NPs) with enhanced radiodynamic effect are synthesized for radiodynamic‐immunotherapy of cancer. The phase composition and oxygen vacancy content of CaWO4 can be easily tuned by adjusting the solvothermal temperature. More intriguingly, the amorphous/crystalline interfaces and abundant oxygen vacancies accelerate charge carrier transfer and suppress e−‐h+ recombination, respectively, enabling synergistically improved ROS production from X‐ray‐irradiated Ov‐a/c‐CaWO4 NPs. In addition to directly inducing oxidative damage of cancer cells, radiodynamic generation of ROS also boosts immunogenic cell death to provoke a systemic antitumor immune response, thereby allowing the inhibition of both primary and distant tumors as well as cancer metastasis. This study establishes a synergistic enhancement strategy involving the integration of phase and defect engineering to improve the ROS generation capacity of radiodynamic‐immunotherapeutic anticancer nanoagents.
Integrating machine learning to uncover homogeneous catalytic mechanisms in N‐vinyl‐pyrrolidone synthesis
Authors: Zhang Zhiwei , Wang Fumin , Shen Qi , Zhang Xubin , Li Guobing , Zhu Bingxin , Shi Jinhua , Liu Shuai , Liu Qingzhao , Wang Zheng , Qin Yang , Zhao Qingshan
Published: December 2024

Combining machine learning, density functional theory (DFT) calculation, and kinetic modeling offers significant advantages in studying reactions under complex conditions, enabling a detailed exploration of reaction mechanisms. Artificial neural network (ANN) models accurately predict and analyze the impact of reaction conditions, overcoming the limitations of traditional kinetic studies in complex systems. Specifically, the homogeneous catalytic reaction for synthesizing N‐vinylpyrrolidone from pyrrolidone and acetylene, which has stringent requirements, was selected. The ANN model effectively captured nonlinear relationships between residence time, moisture content, reaction temperature, catalyst concentration, reaction pressure, and catalyst preparation temperature. DFT calculations revealed the reaction pathways, leading to the development of a high‐precision predictive model. This approach not only uncovers potential reaction pathways and intermediates in complex reaction systems but also provides a new avenue for optimizing reaction conditions, resulting in more efficient catalyst design and process development in intricate reaction environments.
Dermal Exposure to Agrochemicals as Risk Factor for Skin Cancer in Farmers and Ranchers in the US Central States
Authors: Tucker Sarah , Du Yi , Ahmed Rishad , Haynatzki Gleb , Adhikari Suraj , Rautiainen Risto H.
Published: December 2024

Background

Farm operators are at a high risk of developing skin cancer due to their occupational sun exposure. With the growing incidence of skin cancer, it is also important to evaluate other occupational risk factors. Farm operators confront numerous physical, chemical, and biological hazards in their work environment. This study investigated whether dermal exposures to pesticides/fertilizers, animals/livestock, detergents/disinfectants, and fuels/solvents/paints were associated with the risk of skin cancer in farm and ranch operators.

Methods

Surveillance data from the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health (CS‐CASH) Farm and Ranch Health and Safety Surveys in 2018 and 2020 were used to explore the risk of skin cancer in farm operators in seven US central states. Farm production variables from the DTN Farm Market database were merged with survey responses. The associations of skin cancer and exposure variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression modeling.

Results

The prevalence of skin cancer was 10% among 7943 operators. Univariable analyses showed that men had 1.62 times higher odds of skin cancer compared to women. The odds of skin cancer increased significantly with age. Livestock, fed cattle, cow‐calf, and beef production increased the odds of skin cancer. Exposure to pesticides/fertilizers and fuels/solvents/paints also increased the odds of skin cancer compared to unexposed operators. In the final multivariable model, the associations of skin exposure to pesticides/fertilizers (odds ratio (OR) = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.08–1.56) and to fuels/solvents/paints (OR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.01–1.45) remained statistically significant after adjusting for sex, age, and state. Having livestock also increased the odds of skin cancer (OR = 1.18, 95% CI: 1.00–1.38).

Conclusion

Skin is a critical source of occupational exposures among farm operators. Increased odds of skin cancer in this study emphasizes the need for better protection against exposures to chemicals including pesticides/fertilizers, and fuels/solvents/paints.
California Warehouse Industry Worker Injury Rates in the Occupational Health and Safety Administration's Injury Tracking Application, 2018–2023
Authors: Beckman Stella , Andamel Naissem , Harrison Robert
Published: December 2024

Background

Occupational health and safety surveillance in the US relies primarily on federal and state administrative data sources which all have limitations created by underreporting and different sampling frames. To begin closing data gaps, in 2019 the federal Occupational Health and Safety Administration began requiring many US business establishments to submit injury and illness data to the Injury Tracking Application (ITA). We present an example use of these data by characterizing injuries in the California warehousing industry.

Methods

Yearly ITA data for 2018–2023 were obtained and cleaned to exclude invalid records, resulting in 3717 records from California General Warehousing and Storage (GWS, NAICS 493110) establishments. Annual rates of total reportable injuries and cases of injuries requiring days of job transfer or restriction (DJTR) were calculated.

Results

Total injury rates peaked in 2021, with 5.87 injuries per 100 workers. While total injury rates subsequently declined, 2023 DJTR rates remained elevated over 2018 rates (3.21 vs. 1.84 per 100 workers). The primary analytical limitations were potential bias due to underreporting, and difficulty in identifying warehouse establishments.

Conclusion

The ITA data are a valuable addition to existing administrative data sources, with several limitations similar to those in other administrative datasets. The findings of consistently elevated total and DJTR injury rates in California's warehousing industry are consistent with previous research and indicate that outreach and enforcement efforts should be expanded to protect the health and safety of warehouse workers.
The N‐terminal domain of gasdermin D induces liver fibrosis by reprogrammed lipid metabolism
Authors: Wang Xue , Ning Chunyou , Cheng Xingyi , Wu Zhengzhong , Wu Dongbo , Ding Xuemei , Ju Cunxiang , Zhou Zhihang , Wan Lingfeng , Zhao Wei , Shi Peiliang
Published: December 2024

Background

The emerging incidence of pathogenic liver conditions is turning into a major concern for global health. Induction of pyroptosis in hepatocytes instigates cellular disintegration, which in turn liberates substantial quantities of pro‐inflammatory intracellular substances, thereby accelerating the advancement of liver fibrosis. Consequently, directing therapeutic efforts towards inhibiting pyroptosis could potentially serve as an innovative approach in managing inflammation related chronic hepatic disorders.

Methods

GSDMD‐NTki/wt mice and Alb‐creki/wt mice were generated using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. After crossing the two strains together, we induced conditional cell death by doxycycline to construct a mouse model of liver fibrosis. We analyzed differentially expressed genes by RNA sequencing and explored their biological functions. The efficacy of obeticholic acid (OCA) in the treatment of liver fibrosis was assessed.

Results

Doxycycline‐treated GSDMD‐NTki/wt × Alb‐creki/wt mice showed severe liver damage, vacuolation of hepatocytes, increased collagen fibers, and accumulation of lipid droplets. The expression of liver fibrosis related genes was greatly increased in the doxycycline‐treated mouse liver compared with untreated mouse liver. RNA‐sequencing showed that upregulated differentially expressed genes were involved in inflammatory responses, cell activation, and metabolic processes. Treatment with OCA alleviated the liver fibrosis, with reduced ALT and AST levels seen in the GSDMD‐NTki/wt × Alb‐creki/wt mice.

Conclusions

We successfully constructed a novel mouse model for liver fibrosis. This GSDMD‐NT‐induced fibrosis may be mediated by abnormal lipid metabolism. Our results demonstrated that we successfully constructed a mouse model of liver fibrosis, and GSDMD‐NT induced fibrosis by mediating lipid metabolism.
In Situ Growth of Covalent Organic Frameworks on Carbon Nanotubes for High‐Performance Potassium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yan Dongbo , Song Lili , Kang Fangyuan , Mo Xiangyin , Lv Yanqi , Sun Jianlu , Tang Haowei , Zhou Xiaosi , Zhang Qichun
Published: December 2024

Redox‐active covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have been demonstrated as promising organic electrodes in many electrochemical devices. However, their inherently low conductivity significantly hinders the full utilization of their internal redox‐active sites. To address this issue, a simple solvothermal method is used to in situ polymerize 2,4,6‐triformylphloroglucinol (TP) and p‐phenylenediamine (PA) on the surface of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), generating a nanocable‐like COF‐based nanocomposite, TpPa‐COF@CNT nanocables, which contain abundant β‐ketoenamine groups. By combining the high specific surface area and dense active sites of COFs with the superior conductivity of CNTs, the TpPa‐COF@CNT nanocables as the anode in potassium‐ion batteries displayed excellent performance. The reason is that the isomerization between the enolic and keto forms reinforces the stability of molecular architecture, while the transformation of active sites from C=N to C=O improves the K+ adsorption capability. Notably, the TpPa‐COF@CNT nanocable anode exhibits a high reversible capacity of 446.1 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and maintains 282.5 mAh g−1 even after 2000 cycles at a higher current density of 2.0 A g−1. Additionally, a full battery assembled with 3,4,9,10‐Perylenetetracarboxylic dianhydride heat‐treated at 450 °C as the cathode retains a reversible capacity of 273.6 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.1 A g−1.
Size‐Adjustable High‐Entropy Alloy Nanoparticles as an Efficient Platform for Electrocatalysis
Authors: Cai Huizhu , Yang Hengpan , He Sizhen , Wan Da , Kong Yan , Li Deliang , Jiang Xingxing , Zhang Xue , Hu Qi , He Chuanxin
Published: December 2024

The high entropy alloy (HEA) possesses distinctive thermal stability and electronic characteristics, which exhibits substantial potential for diverse applications in electrocatalytic reactions. The nanosize of HEA also has a significant impact on its catalytic performance. However, accurately controlling nanosize and synthesizing small HEA nanomaterials remains a challenge, especially for the ultrasmall HEA nanoparticles. Herein, we firstly calculate and illustrate the impact of size on the electronic structure of HEA as well as the adsorption energies of crucial intermediates involved in typical electrocatalytic processes, such as the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), CO2 electroreduction (CO2RR) and NO3− electroreduction (NO3RR). Under the guidance of theoretical calculations, we synthesize a range of ultrasmall PtRuPdCoNi HEA nanoparticles with adjustable sizes (1.7, 2.3, 3.0, and 3.9 nm) using a one‐step spatially confined approach, without any further treatment. Experimentally, the smaller size of HEAs is more favorable for the HER and ORR performances, aligning well with theoretical predictions. Specifically, HEA nanoparticles sized at 1.7 nm (HEA‐1.7) endows a 16 mV overpotential at current density of 10 mA cm−2, yielding a mass activity of 31.9 A mgNM−1 of noble metal in HER, significantly outperforming commercial Pt/C catalyst. This strategy can also be easily applicable to other reduction reactions (e.g. CO2, NO3−) attributed to the richness of metal components and size adjustability, presenting a promising platform for various electrocatalytic applications as advanced catalysts.
Double‐Network Preformed Particle Gel Based on Hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose and Hydrophobic Association for Conformance Control in Low‐Permeability Fractured Reservoirs
Authors: Li Zhe , Hao Jiting , Lu Yao , Zhou Bobo , Yang Hongbin , Jiang Haizhuang , Sarsenbekuly Bauyrzhan , Kang Wanli
Published: December 2024

The conventional preformed particle gel (PPG) has certain problems of relatively poor strength and easy shear crushing after swelling during the in‐depth conformance control process in low‐permeability fractured reservoirs. Herein, a novel double‐network PPG (DN‐CPPG) based on biopolymer (hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, HPMC) and hydrophobic association (C16 hydrophobic chain) was synthesized using a radical polymerization approach. The chemical structure, microscopic morphologies, and thermal tolerance were first characterized. Then, the swelling property, dynamic viscoelasticity, yield stress, and creep recovery ability of DN‐CPPG were systematically investigated. The results revealed that the DN‐CPPG exhibited an average diameter (d50) of approximately 27.12 μm and considerable thermal stability. Furthermore, it displayed superior viscoelastic properties, yield stress, and creep recovery behavior after the equilibrium swelling process compared to conventional PPG. This was attributed to the synergistic effects of newly developed DN and hydrophobic association, resulting in a tightly crosslinking network and strong gel strength. In addition, the DN‐CPPG exhibited excellent mechanical strength, with higher fractured stress (278 kPa) and elongation strain (917%) compared to those of PPG (140 kPa and 666%) during the strain–stress sweep experiments. This newly formulated DN‐CPPG serves as a promising conformance control material for low‐permeability fractured reservoirs.
Design and Development of Dual‐Function Nano‐CeO2‐Integrated PUF/Epoxy Microcapsule Systems for Self‐Healing and Corrosion‐Resistant Epoxy Coatings
Authors: Yin Chongwei , Zhang Fengqiang , Zhang Xuena , Wang Ting , Zeng En
Published: December 2024

A dual‐function microcapsule system was developed to overcome the limitations of single‐mechanism self‐healing coatings. Nano‐CeO2 particles were embedded in a polyurea formaldehyde (PUF) shell, with epoxy resin encapsulated inside. SEM, FTIR, and XRD characterization confirmed the successful integration of CeO2 and epoxy within the microcapsules. These microcapsules were incorporated into an epoxy resin‐based coating at varying weight percentages to assess their impact on coating performance. EIS was employed to evaluate the self‐healing properties of coatings with artificial scratches in simulated seawater. When the coating is damaged, CeO2 is released and deposited on the metal surface, rapidly forming a passivation film that protects the substrate in advance. CeO2 also releases cerium ions. A cerium hydroxide precipitate is formed by reacting with OH− produced in the cathode region. Prevents penetration of corrosive ions. Meanwhile, the microcapsules rupture, releasing epoxy resin to heal the cracks. Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) results demonstrated that the optimal self‐repair performance was achieved with 10 wt% microcapsules, while higher concentrations negatively affected the coating's adhesion. This dual‐function microcapsule approach significantly improves both protective and self‐healing capabilities, offering potential for advanced corrosion‐resistant coatings.
Flexible PVDF Piezoelectric Nanogenerator Embedded With B0.85Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.9O3 for Wearable Electronics
Authors: Thakur Neha , Gopalan Prakash , Kolte Jayant
Published: December 2024

Piezoelectric nanogenerators have attracted considerable attention due to their potential to provide sustainable and renewable energy for low‐power electronic devices, such as sensors, wearables, and wireless sensor networks. We report a lead‐free Ba0.85Ca0.15Zr0.10Ti0.90O3 (BCZT) nanoparticles‐embedded PVDF‐based flexible piezoelectric nanogenerator (PENG). The morphology, structure, and piezoelectric performances of pristine polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and BCZT–PVDF nanocomposite have been investigated. Raman spectroscopy is used to study the β‐phase fraction, which is maximum (~79%) for PVDF with 30 wt% BCZT nanoparticles. The change in morphology of PVDF is co‐related with the ion–dipole interactions between the dipoles of the PVDF matrix and the negative surface charge of BCZT nanoparticles (~18 mV), calculated from ζ‐potential analysis. The dielectric constant of the samples also increases from 10 to 48 with an increase in the BCZT filler content. The flexible nanogenerators devised from the composite exhibits excellent performance with a high recordable piezoelectric output open circuit voltage (V
OC) of ~6.98 V, and output power of 86.5 μW under a very low constant vertical compressive force of 0.7 N at 1 MΩ.
H2 Consumption by Various Acetogenic Bacteria Follows First‐Order Kinetics up to H2 Saturation
Authors: Muñoz‐Duarte Laura , Chakraborty Susmit , Grøn Louise Vinther , Bambace Maria Florencia , Catalano Jacopo , Philips Jo
Published: December 2024

Acetogenic bacteria play an important role in various biotechnological processes, because of their chemolithoautotrophic metabolism converting carbon dioxide with molecular hydrogen (H2) as electron donor into acetate. As the main factor limiting acetogenesis is often H2, insights into the H2 consumption kinetics of acetogens are required to assess their potential in biotechnological processes. In this study, initial H2 consumption rates at a range of different initial H2 concentrations were measured for three different acetogens. Interestingly, for all three strains, H2 consumption was found to follow first‐order kinetics, i.e. the H2 consumption rate increased linearly with the dissolved H2 concentration, up to almost saturated H2 levels (600 µM). This is in contrast with Monod kinetics and low half‐saturation concentrations, which have commonly been assumed for acetogens. The obtained biomass specific first‐order rate coefficients (k1X) were further validated by comparison with values obtained by fitting first‐order kinetics on previous time‐course experimental results. The latter method was also used to determine the k1X value of five additional acetogens strains. Biomass specific first‐order rate coefficients were found to vary up to six‐fold, with the highest k1X for Acetobacterium wieringae and the lowest for Sporomusa sphaeroides. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of the dissolved H2 concentration to understand the rate of acetogenesis in biotechnological systems.
CFD‐Based Determination of Optimal Design and Operating Conditions of a Fermentation Reactor Using Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Choi Hongbum , Roh Kosan , Lee Jay H.
Published: December 2024

The efficiency of fermentation reactors is significantly impacted by gas dispersion and concentration distribution, which are influenced by the reactor's design and operating conditions. As the process scales up, optimizing these parameters becomes crucial due to the pronounced concentration gradients that can arise. This study integrates the kinetics of the fermentation process with hydrodynamic analysis using Bayesian optimization to efficiently determine the optimal reactor design and operating conditions. By utilizing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations, the study provides a comprehensive assessment of distributions ranging from gas supply to cell growth. The results demonstrate that a combination of wide baffle width, narrow impeller gap, slow gas flow rate, and high agitation speed significantly enhances reactor performance by improving gas distribution and minimizing stagnant zones. These findings underscore the importance of considering both kinetic and hydrodynamic factors to achieve more precise and scalable fermentation processes, offering valuable insights for industrial applications.
Engineering antibodies with cancer‐associated binding sites
Authors: Tian Yinqi , Pan Yumeng , Zhang Yingchun , Wang Fangling , Wang Zejun
Published: December 2024

Cancer immunotherapy has appeared as a prospective therapeutic modality. Therapeutic antibodies induced in an in vitro expression system act as “targeting missiles” against tumor‐associated binding sites, and subsequently, immune system attack on tumors is restored or boosted. These antibody regimens are engineered towards enhanced Fc efficacy, humanization, and fragmentation to specifically recognize and bind to effective tumor‐associated targets. The challenge lies in obtaining efficient therapeutic regimens with low response rates, acquisition of resistance, and immune‐related undesirable effects of artificially designed therapeutic antibodies, which is crucial for enhancing clinical efficacy. This review provides an in‐depth introduction to antibodies that perform direct/indirect roles in cancer treatment by binding to immune checkpoints, co‐stimulatory receptors, and extracellular membrane receptors. It also discusses how antibodies kill tumors and modulate microenvironment of tumor through these targets. The classification of expression systems for antibody production is summarized to guide appropriate selection based on different specificities. Understanding antibody sources, ongoing evaluation of engineered antibodies, and tumor‐associated antigen research pave the way for designing appropriate antibody‐based immunotherapy regimens.
Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Teaching and Learning: Engineering Instructors' Perspectives
Authors: Simelane Phiwe M. , Kittur Javeed
Published: December 2024

Advancements in generative artificial intelligence, particularly ChatGPT, are increasingly influencing engineering education. Engineering instructors have noticed their students using this technology and are beginning to understand its effects on learning and teaching. While research has explored its impacts on general education, few qualitative studies examine engineering instructors' perspectives on how it affects both students and instructors. This qualitative study gathers engineering instructors' views on how ChatGPT affects and could affect their teaching and students' learning experiences. Engineering faculty were invited to participate in Zoom interviews. They were asked questions about their experiences with ChatGPT in their courses. The data collected were analyzed inductively to identify themes. Instructors likened ChatGPT's impact on education to the introduction of calculators, noting its potential to ease academic tasks. They highlighted its benefits in drafting, outlining, and correcting grammatical errors. However, concerns were raised about the quality of ChatGPT's output due to possible inaccuracies (hallucinations) and the risk of students over‐relying on the technology, thus avoiding genuine learning. Instructors recommended that students use ChatGPT as a supplementary tool, verify the information it provides, and that instructors educate students on its limitations and proper use. The overall outlook on ChatGPT in engineering education is positive, with instructors open to its integration in the classroom. Despite growing research on ChatGPT and engineering education, further studies are needed to assess its effectiveness across different course levels. This would help institutions and professors implement ChatGPT appropriately in various subjects and levels.
Motivations for Second‐Hand Goods Shopping: A Comparison of Charity Shoppers and Non‐Charity Shoppers
Authors: Chad Paul , Isbanner Sebastian
Published: December 2024

The second‐hand marketplace involves the redistribution of existing goods and is a form of collaborative consumption. Despite its significance, research into consumer behaviour in the second‐hand shopping space is limited, particularly within specific settings. Charity/thrift stores are a significant redistribution network for second‐hand goods and have historically provided shoppers with a readily accessible avenue for purchasing second‐hand goods. These stores, however, now face growing competition from an ever‐increasing number of non‐charity sources. Little is known regarding motivations to shop in charity stores relative to shopping via non‐charity sources of second‐hand goods. This study, therefore, explores the motivations of second‐hand goods shoppers via an Australia‐wide survey using a sample of 543 respondents. Responding to calls from various scholars in the field, the research contributes by providing more granular insight into the current motivations of second‐hand goods shoppers by comparing the motivations of charity versus non‐charity shoppers. Within an Australian setting, the research confirms the applicability of the Guiot and Roux framework of motivations for shopping second‐hand goods. The work is also the first known comparison of motivations of charity shoppers versus non‐charity second‐hand goods shoppers. Overall, charity shoppers have stronger motivations for second‐hand shopping than non‐charity shoppers. The key motivations identified for both groups were bargains, quality and value (‘economic’ motivations). Critical motivations such as sustainability were less important in comparison to economic motivations. The new knowledge can assist charity managers to develop more targeted marketing programmes to better compete against increasing alternate second‐hand goods platforms.
Iminopyridine‐Nickel Precatalysts for Low Molecular Weight Branched Macro‐Olefin: Dominant β‐Elimination Following Isomerization
Authors: Saeed Hassan , Mahmood Qaiser , Ma Yanping , Tahir Kainat Fatima , Ren Geng , Wang Yizhou , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: December 2024

The chain‐walking mechanism, coupled with β‐elimination reactions, establishes nickel complexes as a unique class of catalysts in olefin polymerization, giving access to a variety of polyethylene products from only ethylene monomer. In this study, a set of 8‐(2,6‐bis(aryl)‐3,4,5‐trifluorophenyl)imino‐5,6,7‐trihydroquinoline‐nickel bromide complexes [aryl = Ph2CH for NiH, (4‐FPh)2CH for NiF, (4‐ClPh)2CH for NiCl, (4‐MePh)2CH for NiMe, (4‐tBuPh)2CH for NitBu] was designed, prepared, and investigated for ethylene polymerization. Upon activation with MAO, these precatalysts exhibited high catalytic activity (as high as 3.1 × 106 g mol−1 h−1) and produced polyethylene with tunable chain walking (branching degree = 58–90/1000C), chain transfer (polymer Mw = 0.7–2.8 kg mol−1), and chain termination reactions (vinylene/vinyl = 83.4%–93.6%). Electron‐donating groups at benzhydryl of aniline showed positive influence on the rate of monomer insertion and chain propagation, resulting in high catalytic activity and polymer molecular weights. Change of chain walking and chain termination rate with reaction temperature resulted in polyethylene with varied physical states from sticky wax to thick oil. Most importantly, β‐elimination is the predominant route for chain termination reaction and produces polyethylene with a high ratio of internal double bonds (─CH═CH─/CH2═CH─ up to 93.6%). These macromers are important for post‐modification processes.
Convergent Total Synthesis of Ixabepilone and Its Analogues Enabled by Highly Efficient Asymmetric Hydrogenations
Authors: Li Dong , Yan Hao , Zong Yan , Xiao Renwei , Li Shuo , Xia Haidong , Zhang Yao , Duan Ya‐Nan , Chen Gen‐Qiang , Zhang Xumu
Published: December 2024

The convergent total synthesis of ixabepilone and its analogues in a 13‐step longest linear sequence is reported. The crucial chiral centers at challenging C3‐O, C8‐C and C15‐N positions on the scaffold of the ixabepilone were installed via highly efficient asymmetric hydrogenations (up to 95 % yield and up to 99 % e.e.) and all three fragments could be prepared on gram scale. The key aldol reaction bridges the aldehyde and keto fragments with high yield and exquisite diastereo control (8 : 1 d.r.). Finally, a novel RCM reaction conformationally controlled by a bulky silyl group was reported, which allows the facile synthesis of ixabepilone and its analogues.