bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Halogenation of Tyrosine N‐Oxime Methyl Ester
Authors: Payne Morgan , Fossatti Luke , Chamberland Stephen
Published: November 2024

Efficient syntheses of mono‐, di‐, and heterodihalogenated derivatives of tyrosine N‐oxime methyl ester are reported. Monohalogenation with N‐bromosuccinimide (NBS), N‐chlorosuccinimide (NCS) or N‐iodosuccinimide (NIS) was optimized by addition of acid to suppress dihalogenation, affording bromo, chloro, and iodo derivatives in 71 %, 50–53 %, and 78–80 % yields, respectively. Homodihalogenation utilized a two‐step, one‐flask process via a spirocyclic intermediate, yielding dibromo, dichloro, and diiodo analogues, respectively (75–76 %, 54–56 %, 79–80 %). This strategy was extended to synthesize hetero‐dihalogenated bromochloro, bromoiodo, and chloroiodo derivatives from monohalogenated analogues (50–77 %). Key to this approach was the formation of an oxidized spirocyclic intermediate using excess N‐halosuccinimide, followed by Na₂S₂O₄ reduction. This method ensures complete conversion and simplifies purification. Nine halogenated building blocks were prepared. These methods provide practical access to versatile precursors for natural product synthesis and derivatization, offering potential for diverse synthetic applications including regioselective palladium‐catalyzed couplings.
A Signal‐On Photoelectrochemical Immunosensor Based On Bi2MoO6 Nanosheets for Carcinoembryonic Antigen Analysis
Authors: Chen Yue , Li Bin , Ge Lilin , Cai Fan , Lin Yao
Published: November 2024

Herein, a Bi2MoO6 nanosheet (BMONS)‐based sensing platform for signal‐on photoelectrochemical (PEC) detection of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) is successfully constructed by employing an enzyme‐catalyzed reaction as the signal amplification method. Specifically, as the CEA concentration escalates, a substantial accumulation of immunological complexes is triggered by the interaction between antigens and antibodies, which promptly concentrate glucose oxidase (GOD) within the wells of a 96‐well microplate. These sequestered GOD molecules subsequently catalyze the hydrolysis of glucose to yield H2O2, an efficient hole scavenger, leading to significant amplification of the PEC response from the photosensitive materials. Under meticulously optimized conditions, a broad linear detection range spanning from 0.05 to 50 ng mL–1 with a low limit of detection of 0.023 ng mL–1 is realized for the detection of CEA. This exceptional performance underscores the successful implementation and efficacy of the BMONS‐based PEC‐sensing platform, which offers promising avenues for sensitive and selective biomarker detection.
Neuropsychological morbidity in the First Seizure Clinic: Prominent mood symptoms and memory issues in epilepsy
Authors: Pugh Remy , Vaughan David N. , Jackson Graeme D. , Ponsford Jennie , Tailby Chris
Published: November 2024

Objective

To examine the neuropsychological morbidity across the spectrum of patients presenting to a First Seizure Clinic, and test the hypothesis that cognitive and psychological compromise is especially prominent in those diagnosed with epilepsy.

Methods

A sample of 201 patients referred to the Austin Hospital First Seizure Clinic (FSC) underwent cognitive screening via telephone and psychological screening via online questionnaire, all prior to their diagnostic evaluation (and any attendant treatment recommendation) at the FSC. Rates of cognitive (i.e., scores <10th percentile) and psychological impairment (using established clinical cut scores) were compared against 35 demographically matched controls. Cognitive differences were explored between the most frequently encountered patient subgroups (epilepsy, n = 48; first unprovoked seizure, n = 24; acute symptomatic seizure, n = 24; syncope, n = 35) via a multivariate analysis of variance, with diagnostic labels applied retrospectively after a period of follow‐up.

Results

People with epilepsy were most likely to show cognitive impairments, particularly in learning and memory, with performances worse than all other FSC groups (F [3127] = 2.44, p = 0.03). Clinically significant depressive symptoms were similarly prevalent in all patient groups, with one in three at risk for Major Depressive Disorder. Elevated anxiety symptoms were common across patient groups; however, not significantly different to controls.

Significance

Cognitive impairment in epilepsy and mood problems in all FSC groups are detectable via remote screening as early as the first seizure. Learning and memory difficulties are particularly prevalent in new‐onset epilepsy and may lend diagnostic information when paired with clinical factors.

Plain Language Summary

This study explored cognitive and psychological differences between various patient groups attending an Australian First Seizure Clinic. We found that learning and memory abilities were poorer in people with epilepsy than other patient groups including those with non‐epileptic seizures, and seizure‐mimics (fainting episodes). Therefore, along with standard epilepsy investigations, memory performances could help to predict which patients have epilepsy versus a non‐epileptic condition after a first suspected seizure. Further, approximately one in three from each patient group showed high symptoms of depression and anxiety. The findings highlight the importance of evaluating cognition and mood in people with first seizures.
An IoT‐Based 5G Wireless Sensor Network Employs a Secure Routing Methodology Leveraging DCNN Processing
Authors: Sabri Yassine , Hilmani Adil
Published: November 2024

The security principles of the fifth generation (5G) are anticipated to include robust cryptography models, information security models, and machine learning (ML) powered Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) specifically designed for Internet of Things (IoT) based wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Nevertheless, the existing security models fall short in addressing the dynamic network characteristics of WSNs. In this context, the suggested system introduces a secure and collaborative multi‐watchdog system through the implementation of deep convolutional neural network (DCNN) and distributed particle filtering evaluation scheme (DPFES). The proposed system utilizes deep learning (DL) techniques to create a dynamic multi‐watchdog system that safeguards each sensor node by monitoring its transmissions. Furthermore, the proposed approach includes secure data‐centric and node‐centric evaluation methods that are crucial for enhancing the security of 5G‐based IoT‐WSN networks. The network evaluation processes based on DL facilitate the creation of a secure multi‐watchdog system within dense IoT‐WSN environments. This system enables the deployment of active watchdog IDS agents as needed. The proposed approach includes various components such as a system dynamics model, cooperative watchdog model, Dual Line Minimum Connected Dominating Set (DL‐MCDS), and DL‐based event analysis procedures. From a technical perspective, the system is driven by the implementation of DPFES, which utilizes particle filtering frameworks to analyze network events and establish a secure 5G environment. The system has been successfully implemented, and its results have been compared with those of other similar works. The performance of the proposed cooperative multi‐watchdog system demonstrates a significant improvement of and compared to other techniques.
“I never had a problem with anyone”: The benefits of a life course interview and ethnographic narrative for domestic violence survivors
Authors: Bloom Allison
Published: November 2024

Feminist anthropologists have long emphasized the mutual transformation that occurs with ethnographic fieldwork; in particular, life course interviews can be one such powerful tool. Based on an ethnographic case study with a Uruguayan domestic violence survivor, I draw upon mental health research, feminist traditions, and anthropological scholarship to argue that a life history interview can offer therapeutic benefits when utilized by either practitioners or researchers working with survivors of gender‐based violence. Ultimately, allowing space for survivors to share their narratives on their own terms opens up possibilities for knowledge production towards survivor‐driven support.
Time‐Varying US Government Spending Anticipation in Real Time
Authors: Goemans Pascal , Kruse‐Becher Robinson
Published: November 2024

Due to legislation and implementation lags, forward‐looking economic agents anticipate changes in fiscal policy variables before they actually occur. The literature shows that this foresight poses a challenge to the econometric analysis of fiscal policies. While most of the literature uses fully revised data to investigate the degree of fiscal foresight, we use forecasts from the Survey of Professional Forecasters (SPF), the Greenbook/Tealbook from the Federal Reserve, and the Real‐Time Data Set for Macroeconomists. Furthermore, we distinguish between federal as well as state and local consumption & investment expenditures. We find that real‐time data matter. Using the first release, the SPF nowcast was able to predict 43% of the out‐of‐sample fluctuation in federal government spending growth (only 24% using the most recent release). Moreover, the SPF was able to predict 60% and 52% of the cumulated growth in federal and state & local government spending growth over a 1‐year horizon. We use the Diebold–Mariano tests and model confidence sets to investigate whether SPF forecasts significantly outperform the Greenbook projections and forecasts from purely backward‐looking time series models. Compared to the SPF and Greenbook projections, the time series models perform inferior at most forecast horizons. In addition, so‐called information advantage regressions reveal that most forecasts could be improved by using the information of the SPF. Using rolling windows, we document remarkable time‐variation in the degree of fiscal foresight of the SPF and its information advantage against (augmented) autoregressive models and the Greenbook. Particularly during the 1980s and 2000s, we find a strong degree of anticipation for government spending at the federal level by the SPF and the central bank.
Connectivity‐Based Real‐Time Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Neurofeedback in Nicotine Users: Mechanistic and Clinical Effects of Regulating a Meta‐Analytically Defined Target Network in a Double‐Blind Controlled Trial
Authors: Taebi Arezoo , Mathiak Klaus , Becker Benjamin , Klug Greta Kristin , Zweerings Jana
Published: November 2024

One of the fundamental questions in real‐time functional magnetic resonance imaging neurofeedback (rt‐fMRI NF) investigations is the definition of a suitable neural target for training. Previously, we applied a meta‐analytical approach to define a network‐level target for connectivity‐based rt‐fMRI NF in substance use disorders. The analysis yielded consistent connectivity alterations between the insula and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) as well as the dorsal striatum and the ACC. In the current investigation, we addressed the feasibility of regulating this network and its functional relevance using connectivity‐based neurofeedback. In a double‐blind, sham‐controlled design, 60 nicotine users were randomly assigned to the experimental or sham control group for one NF training session. The preregistered primary outcome was defined as improved inhibitory control performance after regulation of the target network compared to sham control. Secondary outcomes were (1) neurofeedback‐specific changes in functional connectivity of the target network; (2) changes in smoking behavior and impulsivity measures; and (3) changes in resting‐state connectivity profiles. Our results indicated no differences in behavioral measures after receiving feedback from the target network compared to the sham feedback. Target network connectivity was increased during regulation blocks compared to rest blocks, however, the experimental and sham groups could regulate to a similar degree. Accordingly, the observed activation patterns may be related to the mental strategies used during regulation attempts irrespective of the group assignment. We discuss several crucial factors regarding the efficacy of a single‐session connectivity‐based neurofeedback for the target network. This includes high fluctuation in the connectivity values of the target network that may impact controllability of the signal. To our knowledge, this investigation is the first randomized, double‐blind controlled real‐time fMRI study in nicotine users. This raises the question of whether previously observed effects in nicotine users are specific to the neurofeedback signal or reflect more general self‐regulation attempts.
Genetic Interaction Between F‐Box Encoding UCC1 and RRM3 Regulates Growth Rate, Cell Size, and Stress Tolerance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Pandita Monika , Shoket Heena , Kumar Rakesh , Bairwa Narendra K.
Published: November 2024

Ucc1, an F‐box motif‐containing protein of Saccharomyces cerevisiae encoded by UCC1 regulates energy metabolism through proteasomal degradation of citrate synthase Cit2 and inactivation of the glyoxylate cycle when glucose is present as the main carbon source in the growth medium. Rrm3, a Pif1 family DNA helicase, encoded by RRM3 regulates the movement of the replication forks during the DNA replication process. Here in this study, we present evidence of binary genetic interaction between both the genes, UCC1 and RRM3, that determine the growth rate, cell morphology, cell size, apoptosis, and stress response. The absence of both genes UCC1 and RRM3 leads to altered cell morphology, increased growth rate, utilization of alternate carbon sources, resistance to hydrogen peroxide, and susceptibility to acetic acid‐induced apoptosis. Further, the genetic interaction network analysis shows both the genes UCC1 and RRM3 interaction through the SGS1 and cross‐link among metabolic, glyoxylate, DNA replication, and retrograde signaling pathways.
Dental professionals as clinical educators: A transcendental inquiry into training needs
Authors: Fehrenbacher Jennifer E.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Clinical instructors are responsible for educating dental hygiene students in the patient care environment. While these instructors have experience in the dental field, they often do not have pedagogical training, or a background, related to education. The purpose of this qualitative, phenomenological study was to explore the experiences of dental professionals who transitioned from clinical practitioners to clinical instructors at one US dental hygiene program in 2022. As the theoretical underpinning for this study, andragogy offered a lens through which to tailor the creation of training opportunities distinctive to the needs of adult learners. The central research question for this study was, “What are the experiences of dentists and dental hygienists who have transitioned from clinical practice to the role of clinical instructors?” The subquestions guiding this study were “What forms of education, professional development, or support are necessary to help guide the transition from healthcare professional to clinical instructor?” and “How can this education, professional development, or support be delivered to clinical instructors in a way that meets their needs as adult learners?”

Methods

A transcendental phenomenological approach enabled a deeper understanding of participants’ experiences and their thought processes as they transitioned from clinical practitioners to their roles as clinical instructors. Purposeful sampling was used to recruit dentists and dental hygienists who served as clinical instructors in a dental hygiene program at a midwestern public university. Data collection was triangulated using individual interviews, photograph journals, and a virtual focus group. Data analysis was conducted using epoché, phenomenological reduction, imaginative variance, and synthesis of the structural and textural descriptions gathered during data collection.

Results

A total of 13 clinical faculty members participated in all three parts of the study. Five themes were derived from the data collection: life responsibilities, challenges faced, training received, training needed, and training delivery preferences. These themes helped to create an understanding of the phenomena of transitioning from clinical practitioner to clinical instructor as the participants experienced it in addition to training delivery preferences.

Conclusion

The study's findings highlighted the importance of training dentists and dental hygienists to become clinical instructors while using andragogical principles.

IRB approval: This project received Institutional Review Board (IRB) exemption from Liberty University (IRB‐FY22‐23‐285).
Assessing trends for developed INBDE questions: A dental school experience
Authors: Wright Kyle E. , Dragan Irina F. , Finkelman Matthew , Karimbux Nadeem , Shaikh Samar
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess trends related to integrated questions created by fourth‐year dental students as a part of the Basic Science and Clinical Science Spiral Seminar Series (BaSiCSsss) at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine (TUSDM).

Methods

Deidentified BaSiCSsss presentations from 2019 to 2023 were obtained from the Office of Academic Affairs at TUSDM. The integrated questions created by fourth‐year dental students were extracted and compiled into an Excel sheet. Following the Joint Commission on National Dental Examinations (JCNDE) guidelines for the Integrated National Board Dental Examination (INBDE) question construction, each question was evaluated on 13 distinct categories. The categories consisted of 10 foundational knowledge (FK) and three clinical content (CC) areas. Calibration of the two investigators (Kyle E. Wright and Samar Shaikh) was performed. The chi‐square test and Fisher's exact test were used to evaluate trends of FK and CC category representation across the 4 years.

Results

Twelve hundred fifty‐six questions were extracted from the BaSiCSsss presentations between academic years 2019 and 2023. CC1 (diagnosis and treatment planning) emerged as the most represented category at 44.2% of the questions while FK2 (physics and chemistry to explain normal biology and pathobiology) had the least representation at 1.1%. Statistically significant year‐to‐year differences (p < 0.05) were identified in FK1, FK5, FK6, FK8, CC1, and CC2 with FK5, FK6, and CC2 exhibiting a notable downward trend over the 4 years.

Conclusion

The current study highlights the trends in student‐created integrated questions. Understanding these trends may aid in curriculum development, focusing on areas with decreasing representation and ensuring a balanced coverage of topics optimizing learning outcomes.
Enhancing teamwork in higher education: Experiences of podiatry students using SPARKPLUS for self‐ and peer‐assessment in group work
Authors: Kaminski Michelle R. , Raspovic Anita , Munteanu Shannon E.
Published: November 2024

Background

Teamwork is essential for delivering high‐quality healthcare, particularly given the increasing complexity of care due to chronic diseases, comorbidities and limited resources. The necessary skills and attributes for effective teamwork are often taught and assessed through group work within healthcare education programs. While group work can assist the development of skills and attributes of students to be effective team members, it also presents challenges, such as ensuring equitable student contributions. The Self and Peer Assessment Resource Kit (SPARKPLUS) endeavours to increase transparency, address inequities and provide learning‐oriented feedback in group work. However, there is limited evidence on its utility within university health education. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the experiences of podiatry students who used SPARKPLUS for self‐evaluation and peer review during group work.

Methods

Undergraduate podiatry students (n = 102) enrolled in a fourth‐year (final year) project‐based subject provided self‐ and peer‐assessment ratings for two group assessment tasks using SPARKPLUS. Eleven students (10.8%) participated in semi‐structured focus groups, which were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted by two independent reviewers.

Results

Four overarching themes and 11 subthemes were identified: (i) Performance (1a. Equity; 1b. Accountability), (ii) Peer inter‐relationships (2a. Social dynamics; 2b. Fear of consequences), (iii) Feedback and reflection (3a. Self‐reflection; 3b. Receiving and responding to feedback; 3c. Supervisor action; 3d. Avoiding confrontation) and (iv) Utility (4a. Enablers; 4b. Barriers; 4c. Integration throughout course).

Conclusions

Overall, SPARKPLUS encouraged equity, accountability and self‐reflection among group members. There was perceived risk of negative group dynamics and relationships when poor feedback was given. It was equivocal if team member contributions increased. Self‐ and peer‐assessment with SPARKPLUS is a useful approach towards addressing inequities in group work within health education and may offer insight into the development and assessment of teamwork capabilities.
Exploring preferences and support needs for disclosing 47, XXY status: A qualitative study of adults with XXY
Authors: Oeckinghaus Cassandra , Zayhowski Kimberly , Horowitz Kayla , Haghighat Darius
Published: November 2024

There are minimal guidelines regarding the disclosure of XXY, otherwise called Klinefelter syndrome, in healthcare or within the family. The increased use of cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) to screen for fetal aneuploidy and sex chromosomes bolsters the importance of providing genetic counselors, other healthcare professionals (HCPs), and parents with XXY‐led disclosure information. The aim of this qualitative study was to discern the preferences of adults of XXY in the disclosure of XXY status across the lifespan to best inform the clinical and social aspects of their care. Fifteen semi‐structured interviews were conducted with adults with XXY to gain their perspective on healthcare and support needs, the impact their care has had on their perception and acceptance of XXY, as well as their disclosure preferences across age groups. Interviews were coded and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis through a social constructivist lens, from which four themes were generated: (1) lack of support within the healthcare system affects quality of care; (2) stigma and shame impacts XXY individuals' decisions to disclose information to others; (3) communication of XXY genetic results to children should be thoughtful and age‐appropriate; and (4) attention to psychosocial needs is integral to comprehensive care. Novel findings of this study, which include the detrimental impacts of negative disclosure experiences on relationships with HCPs and self‐identity, underscore specific clinical and social support needs for individuals with XXY. This study highlights the need for specialized support across one's lifespan, particularly within interdisciplinary clinics staffed by HCPs knowledgeable about the overall health of individuals with XXY. Participants stress the importance of empathetic delivery of XXY status and discussions on sex and gender to mitigate shame and stigma. Advocating for ongoing support services, including referrals to specialists and mental health resources, participants also endorse a personalized approach to childhood disclosure by parents, or in collaboration with HCPs, aiming to preserve trust, empower the child, and consider their maturity level. This study emphasizes the importance of providing tailored support to individuals with XXY, prioritizing informed decision‐making, emotional well‐being, and holistic care.
Transfer of Rapport in a Simulated Investigative Interview
Authors: Duke Misty C.
Published: November 2024

Recent research into effective investigative interviewing practice has focused on the benefits of interviewer‐interviewee rapport to successful outcomes. However, little research has addressed whether rapport developed between the interviewee and other law enforcement interactants can be transferred to the interviewer‐interviewee relationship. In the current study, 121 college students participated in an interview about their participation in potentially embarrassing illegal or unethical behaviours after having interacted with an experimenter. Participants were randomly assigned to either a rapport‐building experimenter or a neutral experimenter and to either a rapport‐building interviewer or a neutral interviewer. Although interaction with a rapport‐building experimenter did not directly increase perceptions of rapport with the interviewer, across interviewer rapport‐building conditions, it did indirectly affect perceptions of rapport with the interviewer, through perceptions of rapport with the experimenter. Additionally, perceptions of rapport with a rapport‐building interviewer were higher when the experimenter also tried to build rapport. Perceptions of rapport with the experimenter were greater when the interviewer built rapport. These results have implications for strategic use of rapport‐building behaviours among multiple interviewees and for officers who have initial contact with potential interviewees.
Determination of Size, Size Distribution, and Concentration of Nanoparticles Using ICP‐MS in the Context of SERS Substrates
Authors: Horne Julie , Beckers Pierre , Kemik Kevser , De Bleye Charlotte , Sacré Pierre‐Yves , Thelen Nicolas , Hubert Philippe , Ziemons Eric , Hubert Cédric
Published: November 2024

Surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a widely used vibrational spectroscopic technique employing metallic nanostructures to enhance an inherent Raman signal. This study aimed to develop a method for the characterization of SERS substrates in a single analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) equipped with the single particle module (spICP‐MS). For this development, the well‐known Lee‐Meisel protocol was selected as starting point to synthesize gold nanoparticles (AuNps) and silver nanoparticles (AgNps). A spICP‐MS method was successfully developed and gave the mean size, size distribution, and concentration of nanoparticles in only one single analysis. Reference techniques were used to confirm these results namely dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy, and UV–Visible spectroscopy. Thanks to the ICP‐MS characterization, it was observed that AgNps synthesized by chemical reduction presented more variability than the AuNps. The dissolved elements concentration in the suspension was investigated. It appeared that reaction yields were close to 100% for the six syntheses. This analysis may be repeated over time to evaluate the suspension stability and monitor any potential degradation of Nps. To conclude, ICP‐MS is a powerful technique to characterize SERS substrates and could be an interesting alternative to other characterization techniques.
Development of shampoo formulations using plant/microbial biosurfactants as an alternative to shampoos formulated with harsh synthetic surfactants
Authors: Samadi Somayeh , Amani Hossein , Najafpour Ghasem D. , Kariminezhad Hasan , Banaei Abbas
Published: November 2024

The presence of harmful chemical surfactants such as sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) in healthcare products is a challenge that world is facing today. The present study aimed to formulate novel green shampoos using rhamnolipid and saponin instead of chemical surfactants, and comparison with commercial shampoos. Biosurfactants were confirmed by thin layer and high‐performance liquid chromatography, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, and their performance was evaluated by zone inhibition and critical micelle concentration (CMC). The saponin and rhamnolipid reduced the surface tension (ST) of water from 72 to 40 and 30 mN/m at their CMCs, respectively. Four novel shampoo formulations were made with SLS, rhamnolipid, saponin, and a mixture of rhamnolipid and saponin. The green shampoos were evaluated with tests of color, odor, transparency, pH, ST, detergency, solid content, foam type, foam volume, wetting time and microbial contamination standard to determine the physicochemical properties. The green formulations with rhamnolipid, saponin and mixture of rhamnolipid and saponin were clear and transparent with a good odor. Low ST (34.13, 38.83, and 31.73 mN/m), good detergency (63.87%, 57.74%, and 64.45%), comparable solid contents (25.11%, 26.95%, and 27.50%), good wetting time (160, 165, and 153 s), and good foam stability even after 60 min were observed for three green shampoos, respectively. Based on the results, it can be concluded that these green shampoos can compete with commercial shampoos and be a suitable alternative to chemical shampoos containing sulfate and sulfate‐free, especially for children, people with eye and skin sensitivities and with oily hair.
Cultural group and self‐construal moderate the association between expressive suppression and posttraumatic stress disorder symptoms
Authors: Jobson Laura , Qiu Larissa Shiying , Wong Joshua , Li Haoxiang , Lies July , Lau Winnie , Bryant Richard A. , Liddell Belinda J.
Published: November 2024

Few studies have considered the influence of cultural factors on the associations between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and key emotion regulation strategies, such as expressive suppression and reappraisal. This study investigated the influences of cultural background and self‐construal orientation on PTSD symptoms and both suppression and reappraisal. Chinese Australian (n = 129) and European Australian (n = 140) trauma survivors completed an online survey assessing suppression and reappraisal (Emotion Regulation Questionnaire), cultural values (Self Construal Scale), and PTSD symptoms (PTSD Checklist for DSM‐5). We hypothesized that participants in the Chinese Australian group would report higher levels of suppression and reappraisal than those in the European Australian group and that self‐construal and cultural group would moderate both the associations between PTSD symptoms and both suppression reappraisal. Correlation and moderation analyses were performed to examine these hypotheses. Chinese Australian participants reported higher levels of reappraisal than European Australian participants, ηp2 = .05, p < .001. Regardless of cultural group, there was no significant association between reappraisal and PTSD symptoms, B = 0.10, p = .849, 95% CI [−0.93,1.13]. Cultural group and self‐construal moderated the association between suppression and PTSD symptoms, ΔR2 = .02, p = .007, whereas a positive association was observed between suppression and PTSD symptoms; however, this association was not significant for Chinese Australians who endorsed higher levels of interdependence. These findings suggest that suppression may be less strongly associated with PTSD symptoms for Chinese Australians who value interdependence. This finding highlights the importance of considering cultural values in PTSD treatment approaches.
Imatinib Impedes EMT and Notch Signalling by Inhibiting p300 Acetyltransferase in Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sarkar Shilpi , Kandasamy Thirukumaran , Ghosh Siddhartha Sankar
Published: November 2024

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of cancer‐related mortality among women, with current therapeutic approaches often limited by resistance and recurrence, especially in aggressive subtypes like triple‐negative breast cancer. Drug repurposing has emerged as a promising strategy to address these challenges. In this study, we investigate the potential of Imatinib, a repurposed tyrosine kinase inhibitor, to inhibit epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer cells by modulating the Notch signalling pathway. Our findings reveal that Imatinib treatment leads to a significant reduction in cancer cell stemness, invasiveness, and migration potential, alongside decreased colony‐forming ability. EMT reversal was marked by a 2.71‐fold increase in E‐cadherin expression, with concurrent downregulation of mesenchymal markers, including Fibronectin (1.78‐fold) and Slug (2.15‐fold). Mechanistically, Imatinib was found to inhibit p300 acetyltransferase activity, resulting in reduced levels of H3K18Ac and H3K27Ac, which in turn led to the downregulation of key Notch pathway proteins such as HES1 (2.94‐fold), AKT (2.08‐fold), and p21 (1.88‐fold). These results highlight the ability of Imatinib to suppress EMT through modulation of the Notch signalling pathway, offering a novel therapeutic avenue for breast cancer treatment. Overall, Imatinib demonstrates considerable potential for repurposing in breast cancer management by targeting critical oncogenic pathways involved in EMT and cancer progression.
Research on the Collaborative Mechanism of Value Creation in Public–Private Partnership Projects Under Dynamic Trust
Authors: Bu Zehui , Liu Jicai , Lu Zujie
Published: November 2024

Public–private partnership (PPP) is now focused on project value creation, with trust playing a crucial role. This study models trust evolution among stakeholders using evolutionary game theory and simulations, revealing that higher initial and sustained trust boosts project value. However, overreliance on trust can lead to deregulation and neglect of contracts, harming outcomes. Spillover effects and speculative behavior also threaten value creation. The study identifies an optimal incentive range for reputation gains, highlighting the need for balanced trust mechanisms, effective incentives, and penalties to ensure collaboration and project success.
Extended Activity Cliffs‐Driven Approaches on Data Splitting for the Study of Bioactivity Machine Learning Predictions
Authors: López‐Pérez Kenneth , Miranda‐Quintana Ramón Alain
Published: November 2024

The presence of Activity Cliffs (ACs) has been known to represent a challenge for QSAR modeling. With its high data dependency, Machine Learning QSAR models will be directly influenced by the activity landscape. We propose several extended similarity and extended SALI methods to study the implications of ACs distribution on the training and test sets on the model′s errors. Ununiform ACs and chemical space distribution tend to lead to worse models than the proposed uniform methods. ML modeling on AC‐rich sets needs to be analyzed case‐by‐case. Proposed methods can be used as a tool to study the datasets, but as far as generalization, random splitting was the better‐performing data splitting alternative overall.
Modeling and Simulation of Multi‐Material and Complex‐Shaped Gun Propellant Combustion in Closed Vessels
Authors: Lietz Martin
Published: November 2024

The geometric shape and material structure of gun propellant grains control the pressure evolution during combustion and, consequently, the performance of the ammunition. Due to the large number of degrees of freedom, additive manufacturing offers novel opportunities for grain shape and structure design. However, this new freedom necessitates the development of new algorithms for modeling and simulation of surface regression. In traditional combustion models, it is assumed that the propellant′s burn rate is a global quantity on its surface, which enables separate simulation of the surface regression and pressure evolution. To exploit the full potential of additive manufacturing and optimize designs for different applications, it is necessary to simulate grain structures with locally different burn rates on the surface. This work presents a model to simulate quantitatively the combustion of multi‐material and complex‐shaped solid propellant grains in a closed vessel for the first time. A lumped parameter pressure model is coupled with a surface regression simulation based on the level set method. The model is validated by comparison to analytical surface regression. Then, for the first time, a combustion simulation of a multi‐material ball propellant grain consisting of two hemispheres in a closed vessel is presented. Compared to a combustion simulation using global and weighted mean burn rate values, the pressure and vivacity curve shows significant differences. This demonstrates impressively that for predicting the performance potential of multi‐material and complex‐shaped solid gun propellant grains, a quantitative and accurate combustion simulation is indispensable.
Apparatus and Method for High‐Throughput Screening of Pyrotechnic Compositions
Authors: Carlucci Nicholas E. , Shaw Anthony P. , Motyka Mark D. , Poret Jay C. , Westerkamp Kelsey M.
Published: November 2024

During early stages of the pyrotechnics research and development process, it is sometimes unclear what pyrotechnic characteristics a given composition will exhibit. Thermochemical modeling software can assist in determining whether or not a reaction is theoretically possible. However, these calculations and databases do not consider combustion kinetics. Additionally, without qualitative observation of a reaction, it is hard to determine what application a given formulation might be useful for. Initial testing methods do not need to be overly complicated to provide useful observational data for planning future experiments. In this article, one such method involving a channel burning apparatus based on interchangeable parts and designed for high‐throughput screening is presented. Its utility is demonstrated through rapid testing of 39 different pyrotechnic formulations. Across these 39 compositions, observed burning times spanned a range of more than four orders of magnitude. Even from tests involving few samples, stark differences in combustion times and qualitative characteristics are apparent. Advantages and disadvantages of such an apparatus and method are discussed.
Recent Advances in Aluminum Alloy Surface Treatment Technology and Bonding Properties
Authors: Peng Han , Zhou Tai , Fan Yisa , Shangguan Linjian , Zhang Nannan
Published: November 2024

Aluminum alloys are widely used in lightweight automotive structures due to their excellent properties. To deeply explore the development of surface bonding technology, aluminum alloy is selected as the object, and current research status of aluminum alloy surface treatment methods is reviewed. The adhesion mechanism during joint preparation, the method of adhesive selection, and the bonding process are summarized. This overview discusses the impact of different surface treatment processes on aluminum alloy joints from two perspectives: substrate characteristics and joint failure modes. It examines how these processes affect surface roughness, surface morphology, surface contact angle, surface free energy, surface chemical composition, and bonding performance. Additionally, it looks ahead to key directions for future research on adhesive joint performance. The results indicate that surface treatment increases the surface roughness of aluminum alloys, reduces the contact angle, and improves surface wettability. Moreover, chemical elements or functional groups that enhance adhesion are introduced on the surface, improving the bonding capability between the adhesive and the substrate. Compared to single‐surface treatment methods, hybrid treatment methods significantly enhance the surface characteristics of aluminum alloys and are expected to become a primary focus for future research on bonded joint performance.
Site‐Projected Thermal Conductivity: Application to Defects, Interfaces, and Homogeneously Disordered Materials
Authors: Gautam Aashish , Lee Yoon Gyu , Ugwumadu Chinonso , Nepal Kishor , Nakhmanson Serge , Drabold David A.
Published: November 2024

With the rapid advance of high‐performance computing and electronic technologies, understanding thermal conductivity in materials has become increasingly important. This study presents a novel method: the site‐projected thermal conductivity that quantitatively estimates the local (atomic) contribution to heat transport, leveraging the Green–Kubo thermal transport equations. The effectiveness of this approach on disordered and amorphous graphene, amorphous silicon, and grain boundaries in silicon–germanium alloys is demonstrated. Amorphous graphene reveals a percolation behavior for thermal transport. The results highlight the potential of the method to provide new insights into the thermal behavior of materials, offering a promising avenue for materials design and performance optimization.
“Come as you are”: Reconsidering the need for complex quality control when gridding crowd‐sourced weather data
Authors: de Baar Jouke H. S. , van der Schrier Gerard
Published: November 2024

Recording hourly‐mean in situ observations of surface air temperature is a core task of most National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHSs). Now, suppose that a user is looking for a best estimate of past or present air temperature at a user‐specified location. Can crowd‐sourced weather data help a NMHS to serve this need? In this work, we provide a quantitative answer to this question by computing the cross‐validation root‐mean‐squared error for 1704 individual time slices of observed air‐temperature data in the Netherlands over the year 2023. We consider two baseline services: (i) providing station data as a basis for nearest‐neighbour approximation, a service widely used in legal disputes, insurance claim evaluations, etc., and (ii) providing a gridded dataset, a technically more advanced current service. Our results indicate that service (i) is not expected to be improved by including crowd‐sourced data—for example, the observed relative success rate is 14%—while service (ii) is expected to be improved by multi‐fidelity blending with crowd‐sourced data—for example, the observed relative success rate is 91%. Furthermore, our observations indicate that state‐of‐the‐art, well‐tuned quality control of the crowd‐sourced data (i.e., removing 85% of the data) can—in some of the metrics—lead to improvements of the expected performance of service (i), but—in all metrics—degrades the expected performance of service (ii) significantly. We then continue with a sensitivity study of 96 individual time slices of synthetic air‐temperature data to further understand and nuance these conclusions. Zooming out to the larger perspective, when considering the need for quality control, our results indicate that, for service (i), fewer crowd‐sourced data is better, while, for service (ii), more crowd‐sourced data is better.
Stakeholder treatment disparity and employee whistleblowing: A multi‐stakeholder, multidimensional framework of social comparison
Authors: Qian Cuili , Liu Yilin , Takeuchi Riki , Wu Junfeng
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

We integrate social comparison theory into stakeholder research to develop a multi‐stakeholder, multidimensional framework to investigate how firms' relative treatment of employees affects employee whistleblowing. We theorize that a higher compensation disparity between the CEO and employees and treatment disparity between external stakeholders and employees will decrease employees' loyalty, leading to more external whistleblowing. The effects will be amplified with increased external labor market mobility. We use a multi‐method approach to test these predictions. In Study 1, we rely on archival data to test the influence of treatment disparities on whistleblowing. In Study 2, with two experiments, we demonstrate causality and examine employee loyalty as the explanatory mediating mechanism. Our study contributes to stakeholder theory by highlighting the critical implications of stakeholder treatment disparities.

Managerial Summary

This study examines the relationship between firms' treatment toward employees and employee whistleblowing to an outside entity. External whistleblowing may generate unintended short‐term negative consequences for firms. Firms need to be aware of the potential reputational damage of external whistleblowing and make strategic decisions that could prevent such behavior. Based on data from US publicly listed firms from 1992 to 2013 as well as two experiments, we find that employees will make comparisons among different references groups (i.e., CEOs and other stakeholders). Unfavorable comparison will decrease employee loyalty toward the firms, leading to more whistleblowing. This effect is even stronger if employees have more opportunities in the external labor market. The results suggest that firms need to be careful about creating huge disparities in stakeholder treatment.
MXene Electrocatalysts: Transformative Approaches in Hydrogen Production with Alternative Anode Reactions
Authors: Sundarraj Sreenisa , Vadivel Neshanth , Murthy Arun Prasad , Theerthagiri Jayaraman , Choi Myong Yong
Published: November 2024

Water electrolyzer is crucial for producing clean hydrogen, but the traditional approach faces challenges owing to the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) slow kinetics at the anode. Hybrid water splitting replaces the OER with the oxidation of an organic molecule to enhance hydrogen production along with value‐added products. The scarcity of affordable and highly effective catalysts remains a major challenge. MXene, a 2D nanomaterial, has gained substantial attention for its enviable properties, for instance high conductivity, hydrophilicity, and substantial surface area. This review discusses experimental methods for synthesizing MXene and MXene‐based nanocomposites. Furthermore, the small molecules oxidation such as benzyl alcohol, methanol, ethanol, urea, hydrazine, furfural, and formic acid as alternatives to the oxygen evolution reaction is examined. Finally, an understanding of imminent research and the development of MXene‐associated materials in electrocatalytic applications are presented.
Hierarchical Porous Structured Si/C Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries by Dual Encapsulating Layers for Enhanced Lithium‐Ion and Electron Transports Rates
Authors: Zhang Rui , Yu Peilun , Li Zhenwei , Shen Xiaoqing , Yu Yewei , Yu Jie
Published: November 2024

Silicon (Si) is a promising anode material for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high specific capacity and abundance. However, challenges such as significant volume expansion during cycling and poor electrical conductivity hinder its large‐scale application. In this study, the multifunction of sodium polyacrylate (PAAS) utilized to develop a hierarchical porous silicon–carbon anode (Si/SiOx@C) through a simple and efficient method. The hierarchical porous structure successively consists of nano‐silicon cores, SiOx encapsulating layers, surrounding space, and phenolic resin‐derived carbon shells with carbon chains connecting the SiOx layers and carbon shells in the space. The SiOx nanolayers promote Li⁺ transport, while excess PAAS, removed by washing, generates space for volume expansion, improving cycling performance. Residual carbon chains of PAAS and carbon shells form a conducting carbon network, enhancing electron transport and rate performance. As an anode for LIBs, the composite delivers a high reversible capacity of 685.3 mAh g⁻¹ after 1000 cycles at 1 C with a capacity retention rate of 54.7%. Full cells with the Si/SiOx@C anode and LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode exhibit an excellent capacity retention rate of 96.8% after 200 cycles at 1 C. This work provides a novel approach for the rational design and engineering of advanced LIBs.