bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mental Health Training Programs for Managers: What do Managers Find Valuable?
Authors: Dewa Carolyn S. , Burke Amy , Hardaker Donna , Caveen Michele , Baynton Mary Ann
Published: October 2014

Effective management of mental illness in the workplace has been identified as critical to decreasing its impact and developing a healthy workplace. Educational programs targeting managers have been held up as one way of developing effective management practices. While there are recommendations for what managers should do and how they should do it, there is little literature reflecting the managers' voices and what they value. For example, what skills would they like to learn related to mental illness and the workplace? What questions do they have about mental illness? What is their preference for how the material is delivered? Without answers to questions such as these, it is difficult to develop effective training programs for this key group. This paper seeks to add to the body of knowledge about designing mental health training programs for managers. We analyze responses of managers who attended workshops designed to teach them skills to address workplace mental health problems. The paper's three main objectives are to identify (a) aspects of the workshop most valued by participants, (b) areas of information and support managers consider helpful, and (c) barriers in the workplace that make managing mental illness challenging.
Contemporary Management of Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Venugopal Sangeetha , Sekeres Mikkael A.
Published: August 2024

Importance

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a clonal hematopoietic cancer that disrupts normal hematopoiesis, ultimately leading to bone marrow failure and death. The annual incidence rate of AML is 4.1 per 100 000 people in the US and is higher in patients older than 65 years. Acute myeloid leukemia includes numerous subgroups with heterogeneous molecular profiles, treatment response, and prognosis. This review discusses the evidence supporting frontline therapies in AML, the major principles that guide therapy, and progress with molecularly targeted therapy.

Observations

Acute myeloid leukemia is a genetically complex, dynamic disease. The most commonly altered genes include FLT3, NPM1, DNMT3A, IDH1, IDH2, TET2, RUNX1, NRAS, and TP53. The incidence of these alterations varies by patient age, history of antecedent hematologic cancer, and previous exposure to chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy for any cancer. Since 2010, molecular data have been incorporated into AML prognostication, gradually leading to incorporation of targeted therapies into the initial treatment approach of induction chemotherapy and subsequent management. The first molecularly targeted inhibitor, midostaurin, was approved to treat patients with AML with FLT3 variants in 2017. Since then, the understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of AML has expanded, allowing the identification of additional potential targets for drug therapy, treatment incorporation of molecularly targeted therapies (midostaurin, gilteritinib, and quizartinib targeting FLT3 variants; ivosidenib and olutasidenib targeting IDH1 variants, and enasidenib targeting IDH2), and identification of rational combination regimens. The approval of hypomethylating agents combined with venetoclax has revolutionized the therapy of AML in older adults, extending survival over monotherapy. Additionally, patients are now referred for hematopoietic cell transplant on a more rational basis.

Conclusions and Relevance

In the era of genomic medicine, AML treatment is customized to the patient’s comorbidities and AML genomic profile.
Loss of Lkb1 cooperates with BrafV600E and ultraviolet radiation, increasing melanoma multiplicity and neural‐like dedifferentiation
Authors: McGrail Kimberley , González‐Sánchez Elena , Granado‐Martínez Paula , Orsenigo Roberto , Ding Yuxin , Ferrer Berta , Hernández‐Losa Javier , Ortega Iván , Martín‐Caballero Juan , Muñoz‐Couselo Eva , García‐Patos Vicente , Recio Juan A.
Published: August 2024

The mechanisms that work alongside BRAFV600E oncogene in melanoma development, in addition to ultraviolet (UV) radiation (UVR), are of great interest. Analysis of human melanoma tumors [data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA)] revealed that 50% or more of the samples expressed no or low amounts of serine/threonine protein kinase STK11 (also known as LKB1) protein. Here, we report that, in a mouse model, concomitant neonatal BrafV600E activation and Lkb1 tumor suppressor ablation in melanocytes led to full melanoma development. A single postnatal dose of UVB radiation had no effect on melanoma onset in Lkb1‐depleted mice compared with BrafV600E‐irradiated mice, but increased tumor multiplicity. In concordance with these findings and previous reports, Lkb1‐null irradiated mice exhibited deficient DNA damage repair (DDR). Histologically, tumors lacking Lkb1 were enriched in neural‐like tumor morphology. Genetic profiling and gene set enrichment analyses of tumor sample mutated genes indicated that loss of Lkb1 promoted the selection of altered genes associated with neural differentiation processes. Thus, these results suggest that the loss of Lkb1 cooperates with BrafV600E and UVR, impairing the DDR and increasing melanoma multiplicity and neural‐like dedifferentiation.
Validation of MLC leaf open time calculation methods for PSQA in adaptive radiotherapy with tomotherapy units
Authors: Nasrallah Marie , Bochud François , Tellapragada Neelima , Bourhis Jean , Chao Edward , Casey Dylan , Moeckli Raphaël
Published: August 2024

Background

Treatment delivery safety and accuracy are essential to control the disease and protect healthy tissues in radiation therapy. For usual treatment, a phantom‐based patient specific quality assurance (PSQA) is performed to verify the delivery prior to the treatment. The emergence of adaptive radiation therapy (ART) adds new complexities to PSQA. In fact, organ at risks and target volume re‐contouring as well as plan re‐optimization and treatment delivery are performed with the patient immobilized on the treatment couch, making phantom‐based pretreatment PSQA impractical. In this case, phantomless PSQA tools based on multileaf collimator (MLC) leaf open times (LOTs) verifications provide alternative approaches for the Radixact® treatment units. However, their validity is compromised by the lack of independent and reliable methods for calculating the LOT performed by the MLC during deliveries.

Purpose

To provide independent and reliable methods of LOT calculation for the Radixact® treatment units.

Methods

Two methods for calculating the LOTs performed by the MLC during deliveries have been implemented. The first method uses the signal recorded by the build‐in detector and the second method uses the signal recorded by optical sensors mounted on the MLC. To calibrate the methods to the ground truth, in‐phantom ionization chamber LOT measurements have been conducted on a Radixact® treatment unit. The methods were validated by comparing LOT calculations with in‐phantom ionization chamber LOT measurements performed on two Radixact® treatment units.

Results

The study shows a good agreement between the two LOT calculation methods and the in‐phantom ionization chamber measurements. There are no notable differences between the two methods and the same results were observed on the different treatment units.

Conclusions

The two implemented methods have the potential to be part of a PSQA solution for ART in tomotherapy.
A Single‐Component Sb/Ho: Cs2Na0.9Ag0.1(In/Bi)Cl6 White Phosphor with a Record Color Rendering Index of 97.4
Authors: Zhang Manjia , Jin Shilin , Pang Tao , Lin Bing , Wu Tianmin , Zeng Lingwei , Lei Lei , Chen Daqin
Published: August 2024

The study on phosphors‐converted white light‐emitting diodes (pc‐WLEDs) using lead‐free double perovskites (DPs) as single‐component white phosphors is widely concerned. However, the photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) of white luminescence and color rendering index (CRI) of WLED are not satisfactory. Herein, a new Sb/Ho: Cs2Na0.9Ag0.1(In/Bi)Cl6 single‐component white phosphor with the highest PLQY of 93% and a record CRI of 97.4 is reported. Experimental data and theoretical calculations evidence that in addition to broadband yellow emission of the self‐trapped exciton (STE) recombination, the material also exhibits blue emission from Sb3+: 3P1→1S0 transition and red one assigned to Ho3+: 5F5→5I8 transition. Steady‐state and time‐resolved PL spectra verify the existence of two energy transfer channels from both Sb3+ and STE to Ho3+ dopants. As a demo, Sb/Ho: Cs2Na0.9Ag0.1(In/Bi) Cl6‐based WLED is constructed, showing excellent comprehensive optical performance with specially improved saturation red index R9 and blue one R12. This work provides a novel single‐component rare‐earth doped DP white phosphor for high CRI full‐spectrum solid‐state lighting.
Supported IrO2 Nanocatalyst with Multilayered Structure for Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Wang Yuannan , Zhao Zicheng , Liang Xiao , Zhao Xiao , Wang Xiyang , Jana Subhajit , Wu Yimin A. , Zou Yongcun , Li Lu , Chen Hui , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: August 2024

The design of a low‐iridium‐loading anode catalyst layer with high activity and durability is a key challenge for a proton exchange membrane water electrolyzer (PEMWE). Here, the synthesis of a novel supported IrO2 nanocatalyst with a tri‐layered structure, dubbed IrO2@TaOx@TaB that is composed of ultrasmall IrO2 nanoparticles anchored on amorphous TaOx overlayer of TaB nanorods is reported. The composite electrocatalyst shows great activity and stability toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acid, thanks to its dual‐interface structural feature. The electronic interaction in IrO2/TaOx interface can regulate the coverage of surface hydroxyl groups, the Ir3+/ Ir4+ ratio, and the redox peak potential of IrO2 for enhancing OER activity, while the dense TaOx overlayer can prevent further oxidation of TaB substrate and stabilize the IrO2 catalytic layers for improving structural stability during OER. The IrO2@TaOx@TaB can be used to fabricate an anode catalyst layer of PEMWE with an iridium‐loading as low as 0.26 mg cm−2. The low‐iridium‐loading PEMWE delivers high current densities at low cell voltages (e.g., 3.9 A cm−2@2.0 V), and gives excellent activity retention for more than 1500 h at 2.0 A cm−2 current density.
A Dopamine‐Modified Hyaluronic Acid‐Based Mucus Carrying Phytoestrogen and Urinary Exosome for Thin Endometrium Repair
Authors: Li Chenchen , Tan Xiyang , Deng Dashi , Kong Chenfan , Feng Lida , Wang Weijing , Lin Kaida , Li Yuqing , Lei Qifang , Liu Lisha , Tao Tao , Pan Ruile , Li Guangzhi , Wu Song
Published: August 2024

Thin endometrium (TE) is closely associated with infertility in reproductive medicine. Estrogen therapy gains unsatisfactory outcomes. In this study, an artificial mucus based on dopamine (L‐DOPA)‐modified hyaluronic acid combining phytoestrogen cajaninstilbene acid and rat urinary exosomes (CUEHD) is constructed for TE treatment using a rat TE model. In the rat TE model, the dominant elastic behavior and adhesive properties of CUEHD guarantee adequate retention, rendering superior synergistic treatment efficacy and favorable biosafety characteristics. CUEHD treatment significantly increases endometrial thickness and promotes receptivity and fertility. Mechanistically, estrogen homeostasis, inflammation inhibition, and endometrial regeneration are achieved through the crosstalk between ER‐NLRP3‐IL1β and Wnt‐β catenin‐TGFβ‐smad signaling pathways. Moreover, the therapeutic potential of exosomes from human urine and adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) and rat ADSCs are also demonstrated, indicating extensive use of the artificial mucus system. Thus, this study illustrates a platform combining phytoestrogen and exosomes with promising implications for TE treatment.
A Multi‐Directional GaN/TiO2 Cuboidal Nanowire Junctionless FET‐Based Ultra‐High Pressure Sensor: A Design Perspective
Authors: Khodabakhsh Amir , Amini Amir , Fallahnejad Mohammad
Published: August 2024

In this work, a nanoelectromechanical system (NEMS) field‐effect transistor (FET)‐based ultra‐high pressure (PR) multi‐directional sensor utilizing a junctionless profile and gate‐all‐around geometry is proposed with the advanced materials GaN/TiO2, named MD‐JLFET PR sensor. A design guide approach is considered, and accurate analysis is conducted starting from the bending of cantilevers based on materials' Young's moduli due to applied pressure and finally extracting the dynamic range of the proposed PR sensor. For the first time, the direction and magnitude of pressure can be measured using gate‐source capacitances (CGS). By employing oxide engineering and fringing field, the sensor achieves distinguishable states compared to previous works. Simulation results demonstrate that the PR sensor can measure pressures ranging from 10 to 30 MPa with high sensitivity in terms of CGS, IOFF, ION, and ION/IOFF. Therefore, the proposed FET‐based PR sensor holds promise for widespread industrial applications requiring ultra‐high pressure range measurement, directional pressure sensing, and high sensitivity.
Neutrophils Recruited by NKX2‐1 Suppression via Activation of CXCLs/CXCR2 Axis Promote Lung Adenocarcinoma Progression
Authors: La'ah Anita S , Tsai Ping‐Hsing , Yarmishyn Aliaksandr A. , Ching Lo‐Jei , Chen Chih‐Ying , Chien Yueh , Chen Jerry Chieh‐Yu , Tsai Ming‐Long , Chen Yi‐Chen , Ma Chun , Hsu Po‐Kuei , Luo Yung‐Hung , Chen Yuh‐Min , Chiou Guang‐Yuh , Lu Kai‐Hsi , Lin Wen‐Chang , Chou Yu‐Ting , Wang Mong‐Lien , Chiou Shih‐Hwa
Published: August 2024

NK2 Homeobox 1 (NKX2‐1) is a well‐characterized pathological marker that delineates lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) progression. The advancement of LUAD is influenced by the immune tumor microenvironment through paracrine signaling. However, the involvement of NKX2‐1 in modeling the tumor immune microenvironment is still unclear. Here, the downregulation of NKX2‐1 is observed in high‐grade LUAD. Meanwhile, single‐cell RNA sequencing and Visium in situ capturing profiling revealed the recruitment and infiltration of neutrophils in orthotopic syngeneic tumors exhibiting strong cell‐cell communication through the activation of CXCLs/CXCR2 signaling. The depletion of NKX2‐1 triggered the expression and secretion of CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL3, and CXCL5 in LUAD cells. Chemokine secretion is analyzed by chemokine array and validated by qRT‐PCR. ATAC‐seq revealed the restrictive regulation of NKX2‐1 on the promoters of CXCL1, CXCL2, and CXCL5 genes. This phenomenon led to increased tumor growth, and conversely, tumor growth decreased when inhibited by the CXCR2 antagonist SB225002. This study unveils how NKX2‐1 modulates the infiltration of tumor‐promoting neutrophils by inhibiting CXCLs/CXCR2‐dependent mechanisms. Hence, targeting CXCR2 in NKX2‐1‐low tumors is a potential antitumor therapy that may improve LUAD patient outcomes.
A Complementary Dual‐Mode Ion‐Electron Conductive Hydrogel Enables Sustained Conductivity for Prolonged Electroencephalogram Recording
Authors: Su Hengjie , Mao Linna , Chen Xiaoqi , Liu Peishuai , Pu Jiangbo , Mao Zhuo , Fujiwara Tomoko , Ma Yue , Mao Xinyang , Li Ting
Published: August 2024

Conductive gel interface materials are widely employed as reliable agents for electroencephalogram (EEG) recording. However, prolonged EEG recording poses challenges in maintaining stable and efficient capture due to inevitable evaporation in hydrogels, which restricts sustained high conductivity. This study introduces a novel ion‐electron dual‐mode conductive hydrogel synthesized through a cost‐effective and streamlined process. By embedding graphite nanoparticles into ionic hyaluronic acid (HAGN), the hydrogel maintains higher conductivity for over 72 h, outperforming commercial gels. Additionally, it exhibits superior low skin contact impedance, considerable electrochemical capability, and excellent tensile and adhesion performance in both dry and wet conditions. The biocompatibility of the HAGN hydrogel, verified through in vitro cell viability assays and in vivo skin irritation tests, underscores its suitability for prolonged skin contact without eliciting adverse reactions. Furthermore, in vivo EEG tests confirm the HAGN hydrogel's capability to provide high‐fidelity signal acquisition across multiple EEG protocols. The HAGN hydrogel proves to be an effective interface for prolonged high‐quality EEG recording, facilitating high‐performance capture and classification of evoked potentials, thereby providing a reliable conductive medium for EEG‐based systems.
PTBP3 Mediates IL‐18 Exon Skipping to Promote Immune Escape in Gallbladder Cancer
Authors: Zhao Cheng , Zhao Jing‐wei , Zhang Yu‐han , Zhu Yi‐di , Yang Zi‐yi , Liu Shi‐lei , Tang Qiu‐yi , Yang Yue , Wang Hua‐kai , Shu Yi‐jun , Dong Ping , Wu Xiang‐song , Gong Wei
Published: August 2024

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is the most common malignant tumor of the biliary system, with poor response to current treatments. Abnormal alternative splicing has been associated with the development of a variety of tumors. Combining the GEO database and GBC mRNA‐seq analysis, it is found high expression of the splicing factor polypyrimidine region‐ binding protein 3 (PTBP3) in GBC. Multi‐omics analysis revealed that PTBP3 promoted exon skipping of interleukin‐18 (IL‐18), resulting in the expression of ΔIL‐18, an isoform specifically expressed in tumors. That ΔIL‐18 promotes GBC immune escape by down‐regulating FBXO38 transcription levels in CD8+T cells to reduce PD‐1 ubiquitin‐mediated degradation is revealed. Using a HuPBMC mouse model, the role of PTBP3 and ΔIL‐18 in promoting GBC growth is confirmed, and showed that an antisense oligonucleotide that blocked ΔIL‐18 production displayed anti‐tumor activity. Furthermore, that the H3K36me3 promotes exon skipping of IL‐18 by recruiting PTBP3 via MRG15 is demonstrated, thereby coupling the processes of IL‐18 transcription and alternative splicing. Interestingly, it is also found that the H3K36 methyltransferase SETD2 binds to hnRNPL, thereby interfering with PTBP3 binding to IL‐18 pre‐mRNA. Overall, this study provides new insights into how aberrant alternative splicing mechanisms affect immune escape, and provides potential new perspectives for improving GBC immunotherapy.
Passive Wireless Body Joint‐Monitoring Networks with Textile‐Integrated, Strongly Coupled Magnetic Resonators
Authors: Ye Fan , Hajiaghajani Amirhossein , Zargari Amir , Escobar Alberto , Qin Huiting , Li Lei , Qian Chengyang , Dia Kazi Khurshidi Haque , Hasan Md Abeed , Dautta Manik , Kurdahi Fadi , Khine Michelle , Tseng Peter
Published: August 2024

Current joint angle monitoring techniques—essential for evaluating biomechanical functions and rehabilitation outcomes—face significant challenges. These may include dependency on specific environmental lighting and clear line‐of‐sight, complex setup and calibration, or sensing modalities that may interfere with natural motion. Additionally, the durability of these methods is often compromised by mechanical failures due to repetitive motion. Here, textile (or skin‐borne) strongly coupled magnetic resonators that can be distributed cross‐body to form advanced joint monitoring networks is demonstrated. Flexible magneto‐inductive loops can be positioned adjacent to joints, continuously monitoring limb coordination without being directly subjected to large joint strains. Such a technique minimizes both impediments to joint motion and material fatigue. Networks are lastly utilized to monitor and identify limb activity during diverse user stretches and exercises.
Electro‐Chemo‐Mechanical Design of Buffer Layer Enhances Electrochemical Performance of All‐Solid‐State Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang Xuyang , Xu Xieyu , Hou Weishuai , Chen Yaqi , Yang Yang , Wang Yongjing , Guo Zhixin , Song Zhongxiao , Liu Yangyang
Published: August 2024

Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7(PO4)3 (LATP) is a cost‐effective representative solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) with high ionic conductivity and has gradually become a hotspot for all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASLMBs). Nevertheless, its practicalization has been challenged by the intertwined electro‐chemo‐mechanical interface issues of Li/SSE, such as penetration of Li dendrites, poor physical contact, and poor interfacial compatibility. Thus, it is essential to design interfacial management from an electro‐chemo‐mechanical perspective to guarantee the stability of Li/SSE interface bottom‐to‐up and prolong the cyclic life of ASLMBs with higher electrochemical performance. Here, an electro‐chemo‐mechanical buffer layer with softer mechanics and higher ionic conductivity is constructed on LATP surface by the spontaneous reaction between Li metal and an as‐prepared Ti‐LiF thin film using the magnetron sputtering. Introducing an electro‐chemo‐mechanical buffer layer fosters cross‐interfacial migration of Li‐ions and dissipates interface stress from the growth of Li metal to suppress the early failure of the SSE, realizing long‐term interfacial stability. In consequence, Li[Ni0.8Co0.1Mn0.1]O2|Ti‐LiF LATP|Li ASLMBs deliver a high specific capacity of 163.1 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C, with a capacity retention ratio of 96.1% after 150 cycles. Therefore, the interfacial design from electro‐chemo‐mechanics has been proposed innovatively to open‐up a broad avenue for applying ASLMBs to next‐generation energy storage systems.
Significance of plasma p‐tau217 in predicting long‐term dementia risk in older community residents: Insights from machine learning approaches
Authors: Xiao Zhenxu , Zhou Xiaowen , Zhao Qianhua , Cao Yang , Ding Ding
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Whether plasma biomarkers play roles in predicting incident dementia among the general population is worth exploring.

METHODS

A total of 1857 baseline dementia‐free older adults with follow‐ups up to 13.5 years were included from a community‐based cohort. The Recursive Feature Elimination (RFE) algorithm aided in feature selection from 90 candidate predictors to construct logistic regression, naive Bayes, bagged trees, and random forest models. Area under the curve (AUC) was used to assess the model performance for predicting incident dementia.

RESULTS

During the follow‐up of 12,716 person‐years, 207 participants developed dementia. Four predictive models, incorporated plasma p‐tau217, age, and scores of MMSE, STICK, and AVLT, exhibited AUCs ranging from 0.79 to 0.96 in testing datasets. These models maintained robustness across various subgroups and sensitivity analyses.

DISCUSSION

Plasma p‐tau217 outperforms most traditional variables and may be used to preliminarily screen older individuals at high risk of dementia.

Highlights

Plasma p‐tau217 showed comparable importance with age and cognitive tests in predicting incident dementia among community older adults.

Machine learning models combining plasma p‐tau217, age, and cognitive tests exhibited excellent performance in predicting incident dementia.

The training models demonstrated robustness in subgroup and sensitivity analysis.
Tracking Minority Species in Redox Reactions: A Quantitative Combined XAS and Modulation Excitation Study
Authors: Ibraliu Armando , Fan Xiaolei , Keenan Luke , Kokumai Tathiana M. , Aramini Matteo , Celorrio Veronica , Greer Adam J. , Bowron Daniel T. , Hardacre Christopher , Diaz‐Moreno Sofia
Published: August 2024

Understanding the nature of intermediates/active species in reactions is a major challenge in chemistry. This is because spectator species typically dominate the experimentally derived data and consequently active phase contributions are masked. Transient methods offer a means to bypass this difficulty. In particular, modulation excitation with phase‐sensitive detection (ME‐PSD) provides a mechanism to distinguish between spectator and reacting species. Herein, modulation excitation (ME) time‐resolved (energy dispersive) X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, assisted by phase sensitive detection (PSD) analysis, has been applied to the study of a liquid phase process; in this case the classic ferrocyanide/ferricyanide redox couple. Periodic switches of the electrical potential (anodic/cathodic) enabled the use of the ME approach. Structural changes at fractions as low as 2 % of the total number of electroactive species were detected within the X‐ray beam probe volume containing ~30 pmol of Fe(II)/Fe(III).
Structure, mechanical, and dielectric properties of polypropylene blended with ethylene and propylene‐based elastomers
Authors: Azrin N. A. , Ahmad N. A. , Lau K. Y. , Kamarudin S. N. H.
Published: August 2024

Polypropylene (PP) has been widely researched in power cable insulation due to its excellent resistance against high temperatures and high voltages. Since PP is too stiff for power cable extrusion, elastomers have been blended with PP to improve its stiffness. Although effects of elastomers on electro‐mechanical properties of PP have been widely studied, fundamental issues governing changes in dielectric properties of PP/elastomer blends have yet to be fully understood. This paper therefore reports on the properties of PP blended with ethylene‐based elastomer (EBE) and propylene‐based elastomer (PBE) by correlating their structural, mechanical, and dielectric investigations with respect to elastomer types and contents. The results show that blending increasing amounts of EBE and PBE improves mechanical flexibility of PP, with Young's modulus reduces by 53% at 40 wt% of elastomer content. Morphology‐wise, PBE demonstrates better compatibility with PP and less disrupted crystallinity compared to EBE. Furthermore, PP/PBE has better breakdown performance over PP/EBE, albeit that their breakdown strengths reduce with increasing elastomer contents. Specifically, direct current breakdown strength of PP/PBE reduces by only 21% at 40 wt% of PBE loading compared to 31% at equivalent EBE loading. Potential mechanisms governing breakdown changes are discussed with structural, mechanical, and dielectric interpretations.
A 5,5’‐Thiobis(thiazol‐2‐amine)‐based dithiocarbamate polymer: Straightforward synthesis and application in PVC membrane modification to enhance cadmium and dye removal
Authors: Kamali Mahmood , Haghani Mohammad , Fely Parastoo , Vatanpour Vahid
Published: August 2024

A novel dithiocarbamate polymer (TTDP) derived from bis(2‐aminothiazole) sulfide was synthesized through a straightforward process. The synthesis involved the initial conversion of 2‐aminothiazole into its bis(sulfide), subsequent reaction with chloroacetyl chloride, and final copolymerization with disodium ethylene bisdithiocarbamate. TTDP boasts a high percentage of functional groups containing sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen, contributing to its hydrophilicity, strong chelation capacity with metal cations, and compatibility with other polymers. Therefore, it was used as a strong candidate for making membranes in water media. According to this, TTDP was blended in ratios 1, 2, 5, and 10 wt% with polyvinyl chloride (PVC; 15 wt%), 2 wt% of polyethylene glycol 4000 in N,N‐dimethylacetamide as polymeric membranes for water‐based applications. The blended membranes were prepared using the casting and immersion precipitation method. The blended membrane showed high fluxes, up to 1052 L/m2 h for 2 wt% of TTDP (in comparison to the bare membrane's 459 L/m2h). Notably, they demonstrated an excellent protein solution flux of 222–269 L/m2 h at 3 bar with 96%–98% bovine serum albumin rejection. Furthermore, these membranes showed remarkable efficacy in removing cadmium ions (up to 98.96% for 5 and 10 wt% TTDP) and synthetic dye methyl orange (up to 84.03% for 2 wt% TTDP).
Improved thermal conductivity of high‐density polyethylene by incorporating hybrid fillers of copper powders and silicon carbide whiskers
Authors: Yang Gengchen , Li Yao , Liang Mei , Xia Shuang , Zhou Shengtai , Zou Huawei
Published: August 2024

In this paper, highly electrically and thermally conductive copper powders (Cu) and electrically insulative yet thermally conductive silicon carbide whiskers (SiCw) were selected as functional fillers and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) was used as the matrix to prepare thermal conductive composites. By controlling the amount of Cu at 30 vol% which is below percolation threshold, the volume resistivity of the composites is maintained above 1014 Ω cm. The results showed that SiCws entered the area which was not occupied by Cu particles and they played a bridging effect among Cu particles, thereby promoting the formation of intact thermal conductive pathways that contributed to improving the thermal conductivity of corresponding composites. The combination of SiCw:Cu = 3:1 at a filler content of 30 vol% resulted in a thermal conductivity as high as 1.921 W/mK, which is 380% higher than pure HDPE.
Artificial Solid Electrolyte Interface Securing the Reversible Deposition of Lithium for High Performance Lithium Batteries
Authors: Chen Xuanyi , Lin Kaiji , Wu Mengxue , Li Yuyuan , Shen Zhichuan , Wang Naiguang , Sun Yan , Li Chunsheng , Pan Jiahong , Alodhayb Abdullah N. , Shi Zhicong
Published: August 2024

Lithium batteries (LBs) are among the most promising energy storage devices due to their high theoretical energy density. However, Li dendrites, which may grow in an uncontrolled manner during cycling, can puncture the electrolyte in LBs and cause a short circuit and thermal runaway. In this study, by using a simple coating process, a new type of organic/inorganic composite protective layer is constructed on a current collector by scraping PVDF and Li3PO4 particles on the surface of a copper foil. The prepared composite coating shows excellent mechanical and electrochemical properties, and the ability to maintain a stable coulombic efficiency of 98 % for lithium deposition and dissolution at 0.5 mA cm−2. This paper describes the mechanism of action of the prepared composite anode and proposes further improvements of the electrode.
Germ cell tumors, cell surface markers, and the early search for human pluripotent stem cells
Authors: Andrews Peter W.
Published: August 2024

Many strands of research by different groups, starting from teratocarcinomas in the laboratory mouse, later moving the corresponding human tumors, contributed to the isolation and description of human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs). In this review, I highlight the contributions from my own research, particularly at the Wistar Institute during the 1980s, when with my colleagues we characterized one of the first clonal lines of pluripotent human embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells, the stem cells of teratocarcinomas, and identified key features including cell surface antigen markers that have since found a place in the study and exploitation of human PSC. Much of this research depended upon close teamwork with colleagues, many in other laboratories, who contributed different expertise and experience. It was also often driven by circumstance and chance rather than pursuit of a grand design.
Biosynthesis of High Toughness Poly(3‐Hydroxypropionate)‐Based Block Copolymers With Poly(D‐2‐Hydroxybutyrate) and Poly(D‐Lactate) Segments Using Evolved Monomer Sequence‐Regulating Polyester Synthase
Authors: Kawakami Tomoya , Tomita Hiroya , Hien Phan Thi , Matsumoto Ken'ichiro
Published: August 2024

This study synthesized poly(3‐hydroxypropionate) [P(3HP)]‐containing polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) block copolymers, P(3HP)‐b‐P[2‐hydroxybutyrate (2HB)] and P(3HP)‐b‐P(D‐lactate) (PDLA), using Escherichia coli. The cells expressing an evolved sequence‐regulating PHA synthase, PhaCARNDFH, and propionyl‐CoA transferase were cultured with the supplementation of the corresponding monomer precursors in the medium. The block structure of P(3HP)‐b‐PDLA was confirmed by proton nuclear magnetic resonance analysis and solvent fractionation. The molecular weights of the polymers were in the range of 0.8–2.8 × 105. The solvent‐cast polymer films were subjected to isothermal treatment to promote phase separation and crystallization and were subsequently melt‐quenched to produce an amorphous phase. The melt‐quenched P(3HP)‐b‐P(2HB) film exhibited a high elongation at break (1153%), resulting in a toughness of 181 MJ/m3. The solvent‐cast film of P(3HP)‐b‐65 mol% PDLA exhibited partial elastic deformation, in which the P(3HP) phase functioned as a soft segment. The melt‐quenching of the polymer resulted in embrittlement presumably due to the high lactate fraction. Overall, the P(3HP)‐based block copolymers exhibited several mechanical properties depending on the higher‐order structure of the polymer and the properties of the P(2‐hydroxyalkanoate) segments. This study findings show that P(3HP)‐b‐P(2HB) and P(3HP)‐b‐PDLA can function excellently if their microstructures are properly controlled.
Rethinking dynamic capabilities in light of sustainability: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Correggi Cecilia , Di Toma Paolo , Ghinoi Stefano
Published: August 2024

The literature on sustainable dynamic capabilities is becoming increasingly relevant in business research. In this study, we adopt a bibliometric approach to analyze the development of the literature, provide an overview of its theoretical and empirical evolution, and identify future research paths. To reach this goal, we collected 602 scientific documents from Scopus published between January 2002 and May 2023. The analysis is based on a two‐step process. First, we created and analyzed thematic maps for two different time periods (2002–2016 and 2017–2023) to assess the changes in the themes investigated. Second, we used bibliographic coupling to measure the influence and similarity between 147 scientific documents that were selected from leading scientific journals. Results show the adequacy of the dynamic capabilities framework for understanding the integration of sustainability within business strategies while opening up new perspectives (i.e., stakeholder engagement) and themes. Overall, we observe an increasing interest in reconceptualizing dynamic capabilities while considering their sustainability dimension, with reference to the identification of new micro‐foundations and the level of analysis (from an individual or organizational level to an inter‐organizational level). This study also proposes avenues for future research, including an exploration of new contexts, such as new industries, through a cross‐sectoral analysis approach or the underexplored context of family firms. We also highlight the need to advance our understanding of sustainable dynamic capabilities by focusing on the social dimension, which remains understudied.
Student‐athletes’ employment status still murky after court ruling
Authors: O’Brien Timothy
Published: August 2024

In a long‐awaited decision, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit issued its ruling in the case of Johnson, et al. v. National Collegiate Athletic Association, et al., which deals with the employment status of collegiate student‐athletes.
On the Correlation between Group III‐A Elements Doping and Structure Performance of Cu/ZnO/ZrO2 Catalysts System for CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol
Authors: Shrivastaw Vivek Kumar , Kaishyop Jyotishman , Khan Tuhin Suvra , Khurana Deepak , Singh Gaje , Paul Subham , Chowdhury Biswajit , Bordoloi Ankur
Published: August 2024

A set of Cu/ZnO/ZrO2 catalysts doped with Group‐IIIA elements (M=B, Al, Ga & In) were synthesized via a facile single‐step evaporation‐induced self‐assembly (EISA) method to tune up the catalyst basicity and modulate the structure to improve the methanol yield in CO2 hydrogenation reaction. To understand the catalyst‘s textural properties and catalytic activity, prepared catalysts were exposed to several in‐situ/ex‐situ characterization techniques like Physisorption & Chemisorption studies, XRD, XPS, TEM, and in‐situ DRIFT. The addition of group IIIA elements has a significant impact on the CO2 conversion and Methanol selectivity via tailoring the important textural properties such as metallic surface area of Cu, reducibility of catalysts, particle size, controlled oxygen vacancy, and basicity of catalyst surface. CZZ doped with Al appeared to be the best catalyst, in this study. The modified Cu‐ZnO interface via density functional theory (DFT) calculations also indicated that the CO2 adsorption energy is found to be highest for CZZAl, which is concomitant with CO2‐TPD analysis results. The lowest to highest CO2 adsorption energy order over the catalyst set follows CZZIn<CZZB<CZZGa<CZZO<CZZAl. Moreover, the surface model of Cu/ZnO after doping each element was also studied to elucidate the elemental promotional effect on CO2 adsorption.
Electrochemical CO2 Reduction Reaction: Comprehensive Strategic Approaches to Catalyst Design for Selective Liquid Products Formation
Authors: Sikdar Nivedita
Published: August 2024

The escalating concern regarding the release of CO2 into the atmosphere poses a significant threat to the contemporary efforts in mitigating climate change. Amidst a multitude of strategies for curtailing CO2 emissions, the electrochemical CO2 reduction presents a promising avenue for transforming CO2 molecules into a diverse array of valuable gaseous and liquid products, such as CO, CH3OH, CH4, HCO2H, C2H4, C2H5OH, CH3CO2H, 1‐C3H7OH and others. The mechanistic investigations of gaseous products (e. g. CO, CH4, C2H4, C2H6 and others) broadly covered in the literature. There is a noticeable gap in the literature when it comes to a comprehensive summary exclusively dedicated to coherent roadmap for the designing principles for a selective catalyst all possible liquid products (such as CH3OH, C2H5OH, 1‐C3H7OH, 2‐C3H7OH, 1‐C4H9OH, as well as other C3‐C4 products like methylglyoxal and 2,3‐furandiol, in addition to HCO2H, AcOH, oxalic acid and others), selectively converted by CO2 reduction. This entails a meticulous analysis to justify these approaches and a thorough exploration of the correlation between materials and their electrocatalytic properties. Furthermore, these insightful discussions illuminate the future prospects for practical applications, a facet not exhaustively examined in prior reviews.
Minimum spouting velocity of fine particles in fountain confined conical spouted beds using machine learning and least square fitting approaches
Authors: Moradkhani Mohammad Amin , Miroliaei Ali Reza , Ghasemi Nasim , Hosseini Seyyed Hossein , Tellabide Mikel , Olazar Martin
Published: August 2024

The present study concerns the development of new models to estimate the minimum spouting velocity (Ums) in various configurations of fountain‐confined conical spouted beds (FC‐CSBs) with fine particles. Existing literature correlations were found to be inaccurate for FC‐CSBs. Therefore, smart modelling techniques were employed to design more accurate predictive tools. The radial basis function (RBF) approach provided the best predictions for systems without draft tubes as well as those with open‐sided draft tubes. Additionally, the Gaussian process regression (GPR) approach yielded the best predictions for systems with nonporous draft tubes. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) values for the testing phase were 5.80%, 5.67%, and 5.59%, respectively. These models consider how bed shape and particle properties affect Ums. The sensitivity analysis was conducted to determine the factors with more importance in controlling Ums. Finally, simpler correlations were derived for Ums prediction in different FC‐CSB configurations, with accuracy around 12% error.
Selective adsorption of aromatic sulfonic acid from wastewater using a surface imprinted polymer: H‐acid as a representative contaminant
Authors: Yao Jiaqi , Sun Yue , Liu Yan , Gu Yingpeng , Zheng Weisheng
Published: August 2024

Aromatic sulfonic acids (ASAs) play a pivotal role as essential intermediates in numerous industrial manufacturing, while a large amount wastewater with various ASAs and high concentration of inorganic salts is subsequently generated. The effective separation and removal of ASAs from wastewater is challenging due to their complex chemical composition and the limited selectivity of common adsorbents. Herein, a novel surface imprinted polymer (H‐SIP) with high selectivity and excellent salt resistance was designed with PEI/Cl‐PS‐DVB as the carrier and 1‐amino‐8‐naphthol‐3,6‐disulfonic acid (H‐acid) as the target pollutant. Compared to non‐imprinted polymer (NIP), H‐SIP exhibited superior salt resistance in the presence of Na2SO4 concentration ranging from 20 to 80 mg/L. The relative selectivity coefficients determined in the binary‐solutes experiments proved that H‐SIP demonstrated favourable selectivity towards H‐acid in binary systems of H‐acid/T‐acid or H‐acid/2‐NSA. Moreover, H‐SIP could effectively treat the simulated complex wastewater within 24 bed volume (BV) in the column adsorption, and the desorption rate exceeded 90% when eluted by NaOH solution and distilled water, respectively. Therefore, these results confirmed that surface imprinting technique was a promising method for effectively and selectively removal of ASA wastewater in the application.
Root phenotyping and plant breeding of crops for enhanced ecosystem services
Authors: Griffin Alexandra J. , Jungers Jacob M. , Bajgain Prabin
Published: August 2024

Diversifying and perennializing cropping systems can increase productivity while supporting ecosystem services such as soil protection, nutrient retention, and greenhouse gas mitigation. New crops can help achieve these goals, and advanced computational tools allow plant breeders to rapidly domesticate new crops and select for many traits that support both ecosystem services and profitable production. Intermediate wheatgrass [Thinopyrum intermedium (Host.) Barkworth. & D.R. Dewey; IWG] is a cool‐season perennial grass undergoing domestication to function as a perennial grain crop. Key aboveground domestication traits have been improved to support economically viable yields using genomic selection. However, few studies have quantified belowground traits despite their potential role in conferring ecosystem services. We present a platform for using minirhizotron cameras and machine learning software to analyze rhizotron images for inclusion in genomic selection models. The strength and direction of pairwise correlations between traits were variable with correlation coefficients (r) ranging from −0.27 to 0.99. Grain yield was positively, although weakly, correlated with total root length, area, and volume (r = 0.21, 0.21, and 0.19, respectively). Estimates of narrow sense heritabilities ranged from 0.41 to 0.76 for all traits and 0.46 to 0.66 for root traits. Root trait predictions using a genomic prediction model, measured by correlating model‐predicted values and field‐observed values, ranged from 0.08 to 0.23. Aboveground traits were better predicted (0.17 < r < 0.33). Simply selecting for aboveground traits could result in populations with desirable root traits, but our results demonstrate the potential for genomic selection to aid in advancing populations with specific root traits important for ecosystem services.
Valence Band‐Tunable NiFe Electrocatalyst Triggered by the Dynamic Mo Exudation and Re‐Deposition for Superior High Current Density Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Qiu Tiandong , Jian Rui , Zhang Yufeng , Feng Junjie , Gong Lianxin , Yin Siyi , Li Luming , Zhu Yachao , Chen Si , Deng Jie
Published: August 2024

Developing energy‐ and time‐efficient strategies to derive high‐performance non‐precious electrocatalysts for anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), especially stably working at industrial‐demanding current density, is still a big challenge. In this work, a concise molten salt erosion scenario was devised to rapidly modulate the smooth surface of the commercial NiMo foam substrate into the rough, electronically coupled, and hierarchically porous Ni/Fe/Mo(oxy)hydroxide catalyst layer assembled by the nanosphere array. This self‐supported catalyst is super‐hydrophilic for the alkaline electrolyte and distinguished by a balanced Mo leaching/surface‐readsorption process to tune the metal d band center and electronic perturbation. The altered electronic environment with the favored OER intermediate adsorption behavior attains the outstanding OER activity in terms of a very small overpotential of 230.21 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and an ultra‐long stability for 1179.45 h to sustain the initial commercial‐level current density of ca. 1000 mA cm−2. This superb performance transcends most of the edge‐cutting transition metal peers reported recently and can satisfy the standards of industrial applications. This industrial‐compatible synthesis technology holds profound implications for hydrogen production via water splitting and other electrochemical applications.
Oocyte‐specific deletion of eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5 causes apoptosis of mouse oocytes within the early‐growing follicles by mitochondrial fission defect‐reactive oxygen species‐DNA damage
Authors: Wang Weiyong , Liu Huiyu , Liu Shuang , Hao Tiantian , Wei Ying , Wei Hongwei , Zhou Wenjun , Zhang Xiaodan , Hao Xiaoqiong , Zhang Meijia
Published: August 2024

Background

Mutations in several translation initiation factors are closely associated with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), but the underlying pathogenesis remains largely unknown.

Methods and results

We generated eukaryotic translation initiation factor 5 (Eif5) conditional knockout mice aiming to investigate the function of eIF5 during oocyte growth and follicle development. Here, we demonstrated that Eif5 deletion in mouse primordial and growing oocytes both resulted in the apoptosis of oocytes within the early‐growing follicles. Further studies revealed that Eif5 deletion in oocytes downregulated the levels of mitochondrial fission‐related proteins (p‐DRP1, FIS1, MFF and MTFR) and upregulated the levels of the integrated stress response‐related proteins (AARS1, SHMT2 and SLC7A1) and genes (Atf4, Ddit3 and Fgf21). Consistent with this, Eif5 deletion in oocytes resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction characterized by elongated form, aggregated distribution beneath the oocyte membrane, decreased adenosine triphosphate content and mtDNA copy numbers, and excessive accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide. Meanwhile, Eif5 deletion in oocytes led to a significant increase in the levels of DNA damage response proteins (γH2AX, p‐CHK2 and p‐p53) and proapoptotic proteins (PUMA and BAX), as well as a significant decrease in the levels of anti‐apoptotic protein BCL‐xL.

Conclusion

These findings indicate that Eif5 deletion in mouse oocytes results in the apoptosis of oocytes within the early‐growing follicles via mitochondrial fission defects, excessive ROS accumulation and DNA damage. This study provides new insights into pathogenesis, genetic diagnosis and potential therapeutic targets for POI.

Key points

Eif5 deletion in oocytes leads to arrest in oocyte growth and follicle development.

Eif5 deletion in oocytes impairs the translation of mitochondrial fission‐related proteins, followed by mitochondrial dysfunction.

Depletion of Eif5 causes oocyte apoptosis via ROS accumulation and DNA damage response pathway.