bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rational Design of Covalent Organic Frameworks as Photocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Li Zhen , Liu Chengcheng , Deng Qiwen , Deng Weiqiao
Published: July 2024

Photocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production represents a crucial approach for obtaining green energy through artificial solar energy utilization, offering a sustainable method for energy generation that helps mitigate energy shortages and protect the environment. Among the numerous photocatalytic materials, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have garnered significant attention and intensive study from researchers due to their distinctive benefits, such as porosity, pre‐design capability, and tunability at the atomic level. Significant advancements are made in the development of materials, enhancement of performance, and comprehension of mechanisms. In this review, recent advancements in COF‐based photocatalytic water splitting are spotlighted, both in half‐reactions and overall reactions, with a particular emphasis on the rational design of COF structures to regulate the materials' optical and electrical properties, as well as the fundamental processes of photocatalysis. Drawing from current research in this field, the existing challenges, and potential opportunities are also discussed for future development.
Remote Magneto–Thermal Modulation of Reactive Oxygen Species Balance Enhances Tissue Regeneration In Vivo
Authors: Tommasini Giuseppina , Sol‐Fernández Susel Del , Flavián‐Lázaro Ana Cristina , Lewinska Anna , Wnuk Maciej , Tortiglione Claudia , Moros María
Published: July 2024

One of the hallmarks of tissue repair is the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which modulate processes such as cell proliferation. Although several attempts have been made to manipulate ROS levels to increase tissue repair, the lack of techniques able to remotely manipulate the redox homeostasis with spatio–temporal fashion has hindered its progress. Herein, a new approach for tuning the ROS levels using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) that act as nanoheaters when exposed to an alternating magnetic field is presented. Two manganese–iron oxide (MnxFe3−xO4) MNPs (with a low and a high Mn2+ content) are designed and probed for the possibility of modulating the ROS balance by magneto–thermal stimulation in the invertebrate model organism Hydra vulgaris, able to fully regenerate. By evaluating the expression of selected genes involved in the maintenance of ROS homeostasis and proliferation pathways, a biphasic modulation of the ROS levels played by the MNPs is found. While MNPs with a lower Mn2+ content are able to positively modulate the regeneration potential under magnetostimulation, MNPs with a higher Mn2+ content cause a different redox imbalance, negatively affecting the regeneration dynamic. This innovative approach reveals a novel way of manipulating redox homeostasis that can advance in the field of tissue engineering.
Magneto‐Ionic Control of Coercivity and Domain‐Wall Velocity in Co/Pd Multilayers by Electrochemical Hydrogen Loading
Authors: Bischoff Madeleine , Ehrler Rico , Engelhardt Felix , Hellwig Olav , Leistner Karin , Gößler Markus
Published: July 2024

Magneto‐ionics, as the electrochemical reconfiguration of magnetic materials at low gating voltages, is a highly energy‐efficient alternative to control magnetism. For the fastest magneto‐ionic concept based on hydrogen, fundamental mechanisms are currently under debate, mainly because quantitative compositional information inside the magnetic materials upon gating is lacking. Using the electrochemical hydrogen loading of Co/Pd multilayers with perpendicular anisotropy, this study demonstrates that the hydrogen concentration inside the magnetic material determines its magnetic properties. Hydrogen concentrations up to a maximum of (0.24 ± 0.01) hydrogen atoms per metal atom can be set deterministically by voltage and are quantified via flow‐cell coulometry. With increasing hydrogen concentration, a continuous increase in coercivity of up to 15% and a decrease in magnetic domain‐wall velocity by an order of magnitude are observed using in situ MOKE microscopy. This enables the voltage‐controlled stop‐and‐go of domain walls. These magneto‐ionic effects can be explained by an increasing perpendicular anisotropy with increasing hydrogen content in Co/Pd multilayers, which is supported by theory. Importantly, the approach should be transferable to other ionic systems, such as lithium‐ or oxygen‐based ones, where it can uncover the yet hidden effects of ionic concentration on the magnetic properties and guide the design of functional magneto‐ionic devices.
The impact of the Russia–Ukraine war on stock prices, profits and perceptions in the food supply chain
Authors: Höhler Julia , Harmens Ivo , Lansink Alfons Oude
Published: July 2024

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 had profound consequences for the global economy. As both countries are major commodity exporters, the food value chain was also affected. This study investigates the impact of the invasion on stock prices, profitability and sentiments of agribusinesses along the food supply chain by using an event study, financial data, and a sentiment analysis of annual reports. Overall, the findings show that firms in the food value chain were negatively impacted, with regional and sector‐specific differences. Agribusiness firms in Europe and Japan were more negatively impacted by the war than those in the United States. Stock prices of Brewers, Packaged Food and Meats, Soft drinks, and Tobacco firms were negatively impacted by the invasion, while other sectors experienced no or little impact on stock prices. Fertilizers and Agrochemicals firms overall achieved a higher profitability in 2022 compared to previous years. [EconLit Citations: G01, G12, E44, Q01].
Schrittweiser Abbau von weißem Phosphor: Experimentelle und computergestützte Studien zum Mechanismus der P4‐Hydrostannylierung
Authors: Cammarata Jose , Westermair Franz F. , Coburger Peter , Duvinage Daniel , Janssen Marvin , Uttendorfer Maria K. , Beckmann Jens , Gschwind Ruth M. , Wolf Robert , Scott Daniel J.
Published: July 2024

Die Hydrostannylierung der wichtigen Basischemikalie weißer Phosphor (P4) ermöglicht in einer Eintopf‐Reaktion und sogar auf katalytischem Weg die Synthese nützlicher P1‐Produkte. Bisher ist das mechanistische Verständnis dieser Methode jedoch mangelhaft, was die Nutzung für weitere Reaktionen einschränkt. Mit Hilfe von sterisch anspruchsvollen Zinnhydriden, zeitaufgelösten 31P‐NMR‐Experimenten und DFT‐Rechnungen geben wir nun fundierte Einblicke in den Mechanismus der P4‐Hydrostannylierung und beschreiben die Identifikation und Isolierung bisher unbekannter Reaktionsintermediate. Die Ergebnisse erlauben Rückschlüsse zur Kinetik der Reaktion und liefern praktische Hinweise für zukünftige Arbeiten auf dem Gebiet der P4‐Aktivierung.
Sensory over‐responsivity and atypical neural responses to socially relevant stimuli in autism
Authors: Than A. , Patterson G. , Cummings K. K. , Jung J. , Cakar M. E. , Abbas L. , Bookheimer S. Y. , Dapretto M. , Green S. A.
Published: July 2024

Although aversive responses to sensory stimuli are common in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), it remains unknown whether the social relevance of aversive sensory inputs affects their processing. We used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate neural responses to mildly aversive nonsocial and social sensory stimuli as well as how sensory over‐responsivity (SOR) severity relates to these responses. Participants included 21 ASD and 25 typically‐developing (TD) youth, aged 8.6–18.0 years. Results showed that TD youth exhibited significant neural discrimination of socially relevant versus irrelevant aversive sensory stimuli, particularly in the amygdala and orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), regions that are crucial for sensory and social processing. In contrast, ASD youth showed reduced neural discrimination of social versus nonsocial stimuli in the amygdala and OFC, as well as overall greater neural responses to nonsocial compared with social stimuli. Moreover, higher SOR in ASD was associated with heightened responses in sensory‐motor regions to socially‐relevant stimuli. These findings further our understanding of the relationship between sensory and social processing in ASD, suggesting limited attention to the social relevance compared with aversiveness level of sensory input in ASD versus TD youth, particularly in ASD youth with higher SOR.
Environmental, social, and governance and hierarchical network data envelopment analysis firm efficiencies of Japan Airlines' supply chain
Authors: Kweh Qian Long , Ting Irene Wei Kiong , Asif Jawad , Lu Wen‐Min
Published: July 2024

Although environmental, social, and governance (ESG) have been recognized for its overall impact on firm efficiency, research on the effects of the three main and multiple sub elements of ESG, especially in the airline industry, has been lacking. Thus, we analyze the impacts of overall ESG, its three main elements, and each sub elements of ESG on the firm efficiency of 29 suppliers, partners, and customers of Japan Airlines over the period of 2013–2022. First, we employ a two‐stage hierarchical network data envelopment analysis (DEA) technique that assesses the interrelationships and interdependencies among the supply chain players in contributing toward achieving their respective operating and profitability efficiencies. Second, we run ordinary least squares regression analyses with 5000 bootstrap replications and determine that overall ESG and its three main elements are positively linked with firm efficiencies. The sub elements of ESG have different impacts on firm efficiencies. That is, resource use and environmental innovation under the Environmental element and human rights and product responsibility under the Social element show significantly positive associations with firm efficiencies. All Governance sub elements positively affect firm efficiencies. The outcomes of this study will be valuable for managers at Japan Airlines and other policymakers within its supply chain because it highlights the importance of focusing on the three main and sub elements of ESG and employing the accurate firm efficiency measurement method when interrelationships and interdependencies of decision‐making units exist.
The emotional states and associated behavioral responses (flexible‐adaptive behaviors vs. inflexible‐maladaptive behaviors) of cancer patients during the SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak: A multi‐center cross‐sectional study in Italy
Authors: Deledda Giuseppe , Poli Sara , Giansante Matteo , Geccherle Eleonora , Fantoni Giovanna , Romaniello Incoronata , Gabriella Farina , Verzè Matteo , Nicolis Fabrizio , Gori Stefania
Published: July 2024

Objective

Distress during SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak affected also cancer patients' well‐being. Aim of this study was to investigate patient' reactions and behavior (flexible‐adaptive vs. inflexible‐maladaptive) during the SARS‐CoV‐2 outbreak.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was designed with a self‐report questionnaire, “the ImpACT questionnaire,” developed for the study. Regression analysis was performed on data.

Results

Four hundred and forty five cancer patients from 17 Italian regions participated in the study. 79.8% of participants were female (mean age of 58 years). 92.6% of participants reported feeling vulnerable to COVID‐19 contagion; 75.6% reported helpless, 62.7% sad, 60.4% anxious, and 52.0% anger. Avoidance of thinking about coronavirus is the principal maladaptive behavior that emerged. Participants who reported feeling anxious were more likely to have fear of staff being infected with COVID‐19 (OR = 3.01; 95% CI = 1.49–6.30) and to have disrupted sleep due to worry (OR = 2.42; 95% CI = 1.23–4.83). Younger participants reported more anxiety (OR = 0.97; 95% CI = 0.94–1.00); men reported feeling calm more than women (OR = 2.60; 95% CI = 1.27–5.43).

Conclusions

Majority of cancer patients reported serious concerns regarding SARS‐CoV‐2 infection; reliable information and psychological support must be offers to respond to these needs.
Student‐generated metaphor in research supervision: An arts‐based method
Authors: Ramsey‐Wade Christine E. , Cott Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Previous research has highlighted the impact and importance of the use of client‐generated metaphor in psychotherapy (Cott, 2020). While researching this topic, we began to incorporate student‐generated metaphor into the research supervision process. This was found to enhance the supervision relationship, providing a quick and immediate insight into the supervisee's lived experience and pastoral needs at each stage of the research journey. This work developed into an arts‐based research supervision method, which reduced the power differential in the supervisory relationship, and made space for the supervisee to communicate their learning experience on their own terms. In this paper, we will set out the rationale for using student‐generated metaphor in research supervision and share further student feedback on this process, including future ideas for research and practice. We argue that theory and research on research supervision often neglect its pastoral component, and that providing excellent pastoral support to postgraduate researchers is key. The paper will conclude by making the case that the use of student‐generated metaphor in research supervision can be a simple and effective way to bring the supervisory relationship into focus.
Anti‐Inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential of Green Synthesized Iron Zinc Oxide (Fe0.25‐ZnO) Nanoparticles of the Elaeagnus angustifolia
Authors: Imraish Amer , Thiab Tuqa Abu , Zihlif Malek , Al‐Hunaiti Afnan
Published: July 2024

Research interest in examining Elaeagnus angustifolia’s potential as a source of anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant agents has grown as a result of the plant's endorsement as a rich source of bioactive chemicals with promising anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activity. In this study, zinc oxide (Fe0.25‐ZnO) bimetallic nanoparticles (E.ang‐Fe0.25‐ZnO NPs) were synthesized using an aqueous extract of Elaeagnus angustifolia. Synthesized Fe0.25‐ZnO nanoparticles were characterized by FTIR and XRD. The anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities were investigated in LPS‐stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophages using RT‐PCR and ELISA techniques for antioxidant‐ and inflammation‐related genes. The concentration of 39.6 μg/ml of E.ang‐Fe0.25‐ZnO NPs demonstrated a significant anti‐inflammatory activity by suppressing the mRNA levels of TNF‐α and IL‐6 by 88.3 %±1.9 and 93.6 %±0.1, respectively, compared to LPS‐stimulated cells. This was confirmed by the significant reduction of TNF‐α and IL‐6 secretion levels from 95.2 and 495.6 pg/ml in LPS‐stimulated cells to 5.6 and 26.5 pg/ml in E.ang‐Fe0.25‐ZnO treated group. In addition, E.ang‐Fe0.25‐ZnO NPs nanoparticles treatment significantly enhanced the expression of antioxidant‐related genes, SOD and CAT. Together, our results proved that phyto‐mediated Fe0.25‐ZnO nanoparticles using Elaeagnus angustifolia have great potential in biomedical applications such as anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant.
Three Undescribed Protoilludane‐Type Sesquiterpene Aryl Esters from Armillaria gallica
Authors: Zhang Jing‐Jing , Yang Song‐Xue , Zhang Xing‐Jie , Li Na , He Xiao‐Ting , Xiao Wei‐Lie , Cheng Li‐Jun , Li Xiao‐Li
Published: July 2024

Three previously undescribed protoilludane‐type sesquiterpene aryl esters, armillanals A−C (1–3), along with seven known ones (4–10) were obtained from Armillaria gallica Marxm. & Romagn. Compounds 1 and 2 were a rare class of sesquiterpenes featuring the Δ2(3) and Δ12(13)‐protoilludane skeleton. Their structures were established by extensive spectroscopic methods. Based on electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculations, the absolute configurations of three new compounds (1–3) were determined. The anti‐inflammatory activity of compounds 1–10 was screened and compound 3 could dose‐dependently decrease the level of lactate dehydrogenase, showing IC50 value of 4.525 μM.
Innovative Photocatalyst Design: Advancing ZnO/MIL‐100(Fe) through Atomic Layer Deposition in Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Parsa Amouzesh Seyed , Zandjou Mahshid , Ali Khodadadi Abbas , Mortazavi Yadollah , Hooriabad Saboor Fahimeh , Saris Seryio , Javanmard Alireza , Alirezayi Samira , Asgari Mehrdad
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the integration of ZnO nanoparticles into the MIL‐100(Fe) framework using atomic layer deposition (ALD) at atmospheric pressure, varying ALD cycles from 0.5 to 2. The goal is to enhance the photocatalytic efficiency of MIL‐100(Fe) in water splitting under ultraviolet light. Among the composites, the ZnO/MIL‐100(Fe) synthesized with a 1‐cycle ALD process stands out, demonstrating superior hydrogen evolution rates (8465 μmol g−1 h−1) and improved durability, surpassing the base MIL‐100(Fe) in repeated photocatalytic water splitting (PWS) trials. Comprehensive characterization using various analytical techniques, including BET analysis, DRS, EDS, SEM, TEM, XRD, FT‐IR, Raman, and PL, sheds light on the structural, chemical, and optical properties of the MIL‐100(Fe)/ZnO materials, confirming successful ZnO deposition within the MIL‐100(Fe) structure. Furthermore, the enhancement in photocatalytic activity is associated with increased absorption intensity and reduced trap sites, implying improved charge carrier dynamics and separation. The inclusion of ZnO not only reduced the bandgap of composites, but also influences the photoluminescence characteristics significantly, leading to a reduction in non‐radiative recombination and enhancing the availability of photogenerated electrons for photocatalytic reactions. Specifically, the increased photoluminescence intensity observed with ZnO/MIL‐100(Fe) composites indicates a higher defect density, which corresponds to more active sites for photocatalysis.
Design, Synthesis, and Photophysical Characterization of Biocompatible Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Carbazole‐Coumarins for Sensing Applications
Authors: Cocco Andrea , Paniziutti Sara , Olla Chiara , Corpino Riccardo , Maria Carbonaro Carlo , Carlo Ricci Pier , Melis Nicola , Caria Paola , Sanna Giuseppina , Zysman‐Colman Eli , Secci Francesco
Published: July 2024

A series of fluorescent carbazole‐coumarins exhibiting good photoluminescence quantum yields and thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) properties have been designed and synthetized using computer‐aided density functional theory calculations. The TADF characteristics of the carbazole‐coumarins were systematically explored both in solution and in the solid state, utilizing poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) as a matrix. The study revealed that the introduction of carbazole units onto the coumarin benzene ring led to compounds with thermally induced reverse intersystem crossing and delayed fluorescence. The study further demonstrated the potential utility of these compounds in practical applications by incorporating them into a Cmr‐PMMA‐based sensor for molecular oxygen detection. The resulting sensor exhibited promising performance, highlighting the adaptability and efficacy of the synthesized TADF‐carbazole‐coumarin compounds for reversible molecular oxygen sensing.
Superlong Metal–Organic Framework Nanowire Fabricated via Steam‐Assisted Conversion
Authors: Zhang Liying , He Wenxiu , Yuan Hehe , Shao Lei , Chen Huan , Fu Yu
Published: July 2024

1D nanomaterials have attracted great attention due to their outstanding anisotropic and linear structures. A facile method is developed to fabricate 1D copper metal–organic framework nanowires (Cu‐MOF‐NW) through steam‐assisted conversion from Cu‐MOF precursors. During the steam‐assisted conversion, Cu‐MOF precursor gradually dissolves in methanol steam, and then recrystallized into Cu‐MOF‐NW, which shows high aspect ratio of about 600 and identical crystal structure of MOF‐74. As‐prepared Cu‐MOF‐NW with multiscale porous structure can effectively remove cationic dyes even in dye mixture. Moreover, Cu‐MOF‐NW, as an ideal template, is calcined to form Cu nanoparticle‐doped carbon nanofiber with maintaining its 1D morphology, which shows excellent electrocatalytic activity for the non‐enzymatic sensing of glucose.
Carbon Chain Length in a Novel Anticancer Aryl‐Urea Fatty Acid Modulates Mitochondrial Targeting, Reactive Oxygen Species Production and Cell Killing
Authors: Elmaghrabi Yasmin A. , Roseblade Ariane , Rahman Khalilur , Rawling Tristan , Murray Michael
Published: July 2024

The cancer cell mitochondrion could be a promising target for the development of new anticancer agents. 16‐([3‐chloro‐5‐(trifluoromethyl)‐phenyl]carbamoylamino)hexadecanoic acid (2) is a novel aryl‐urea fatty acid that targets the mitochondrion in MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cells and activates cell death. In the present study, the relationships between alkyl chain length in 2 analogues, mitochondrial disruption and cell killing were evaluated. The chain‐contracted C13‐analogue 7 c optimally disrupted the mitochondrial membrane potential (IC50 4.8±0.8 μM). In addition, annexin V‐FITC/7‐AAD assays demonstrated that 7 c was the most effective cell killing analogue and C11 BODIPY (581/591) assays demonstrated that 7 c was also most effective in generating reactive oxygen species in MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Together, carbon chain length is a key factor that determines the capacity of 2 analogues to disrupt the mitochondrial membrane, induce the production of reactive oxygen species and kill breast cancer cells. As an aryl‐urea with enhanced activity and improved drug‐like properties, 7 c may be a suitable lead molecule for entry into a program of development of these molecules as anticancer agents.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Carbapenem/Metallo‐β‐Lactamase Inhibitor Conjugates
Authors: Gao Mei‐Ling , Kotsogianni Ioli , Skoulikopoulou Foteini , Brüchle Nora C. , Innocenti Paolo , Martin Nathaniel I.
Published: July 2024

Antibiotics, particularly the β‐lactams, are a cornerstone of modern medicine. However, the rise of bacterial resistance to these agents, particularly through the actions of β‐lactamases, poses a significant threat to our continued ability to effectively treat infections. Metallo‐β‐lactamases (MBLs) are of particular concern due to their ability to hydrolyze a wide range of β‐lactam antibiotics including carbapenems. For this reason there is growing interest in the development of MBL inhibitors as well as novel antibiotics that can overcome MBL‐mediated resistance. Here, we report the synthesis and evaluation of novel conjugates that combine a carbapenem (meropenem or ertapenem) with a recently reported MBL inhibiting indole carboxylate scaffold. These hybrids were found to display potent inhibition against MBLs including NDM‐1 and IMP‐1, with IC50 values in the low nanomolar range. However, their antibacterial potency was limited. Mechanistic studies suggest that despite maintaining effective MBL inhibiting activity in live bacteria, the new carbapenem/MBL inhibitor conjugates have a reduced ability to engage with the bacterial target of the β‐lactams.
Highly Efficient and Robust Platinum Nanocluster Catalyst Mediated by Polyamine Amidine‐Decorated Mesoporous Polymer Beads
Authors: Li Chenhui , Li Bingxin , Jin Ming , Wan Decheng , Chen Biqiong
Published: July 2024

Platinum nanoclusters (PtNCs) are promising in catalysis due to their large specific surface area and unique physicochemical properties. Here, ultrasmall and uniform PtNCs are facilely synthesized with the mediation of amidine‐functionalized polyamines patched on mesoporous poly(divinylbenzene‐4‐vinylbenzyl chloride) beads. When each ligand patch has 14 amidines, ultrafine PtNCs (with the size as low as 1.1±0.1 nm) are formed as a result of several factors: deprotonated amidines (carbenes) strongly passivate on Pt atoms, amidines act as co‐stabilizers along with weak polyamine ligands, and PtNCs are confined to discrete ligand patches. When one ligand patch contains 9.3 amidines, the resulting PtNCs (1.7±0.3 nm) reach the highest turnover frequency of 536 h−1 for the catalytic reduction of 4‐nitrophenol in a batch reaction. This catalyst remains rather stable in a continuous flow test as a 4‐nitrophenol conversion of over 95 % is still achieved after running consecutively for 10 h.
Boosting semi‐supervised learning under imbalanced regression via pseudo‐labeling
Authors: Zong Nannan , Su Songzhi , Zhou Changle
Published: July 2024

Imbalanced samples are widespread, which impairs the generalization and fairness of models. Semi‐supervised learning can overcome the deficiency of rare labeled samples, but it is challenging to select high‐quality pseudo‐label data. Unlike discrete labels that can be matched one‐to‐one with points on a numerical axis, labels in regression tasks are consecutive and cannot be directly chosen. Besides, the distribution of unlabeled data is imbalanced, which easily leads to an imbalanced distribution of pseudo‐label data, exacerbating the imbalance in the semi‐supervised dataset. To solve this problem, this article proposes a semi‐supervised imbalanced regression network (SIRN), which consists of two components: A, designed to learn the relationship between features and labels (targets), and B, dedicated to learning the relationship between features and target deviations. To measure target deviations under imbalanced distribution, the target deviation function is introduced. To select continuous pseudo‐labels, the deviation matching strategy is designed. Furthermore, an adaptive selection function is developed to mitigate the risk of skewed distributions due to imbalanced pseudo‐label data. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is validated through evaluations of two regression tasks. The results show a great reduction in predicted value error, particularly in few‐shot regions. This empirical evidence confirms the efficacy of our method in addressing the issue of imbalanced samples in regression tasks.
A Review of Design Strategies in SiO/C Composite Anodes for Rechargeable Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Luo Tan , Jiang Hao , Qing Zhi , Zhang Zhengying , Li Liyang , Fang Dong
Published: July 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in electric vehicles, portable electronic devices, clean energy storage, and other fields due to their long service life, high energy density, and low self‐discharge rate, which also puts forward higher requirements for the performance of lithium‐ion batteries. As an anode for lithium‐ion batteries, SiO materials have garnered significant attention from researchers due to its high specific capacity (2400 mAh g−1), abundance of raw materials, and simple preparation. However, its large volume change (~200 %) and poor electrical conductivity hinder its large‐scale commercial application. Researchers employ various methods to reduce the volume change of SiO during lithium intercalation and improve its structural stability during cycling. This work mainly reviews the chemical structure and lithium storage mechanism of SiO, as well as the latest research progress on the preparation methods of SiO/C anode materials, focusing on summarizing the following preparation strategies: chemical vapor deposition, mechanical ball milling, spray drying, and in‐situ reduction/oxidation methods. The obtained SiO‐based anode materials’ structural characteristics and electrochemical properties are compared and summarized. Finally, this review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the current preparation methods, the future research directions, and the development prospects of SiO‐based anode materials.
A new winding structure with low common‐mode current in input series output parallel planar transformer LLC converter
Authors: Tang Yu , Jia Purui
Published: July 2024

MHz switches and integrated magnetic planar transformers (PT) promote the high density and miniaturization of DC/DC converters. The parasitic parameters of the PT at high frequency significantly affect the performance of converters, resulting in severe electromagnetic interference (EMI) problems. Firstly, this paper proposes a new common‐mode (CM)‐suppression winding structure for the input series output parallel (ISOP) matrix transformer LLC converter. The sources and conduction principle of CM noise are analyzed. Furthermore, this optimization based on winding shape and position is simple and feasible, suppressing the CM noise significantly. Compared with conventional multilayer winding structure, this optimization increases the current‐carrying area by 2.8%–5.9%, effectively improving the primary current distribution. In addition, the proposed structure makes the best planar windings in footprint with expanded windings, bringing the simplest layout in the primary winding. Finally, a 1 MHz 400 V/12 V 300 W LLC converter is constructed to verify the effect of this winding structure. The results show that a 40% reduction in CM current can be achieved while maintaining the current balance.
Recontextualising Stenhouse: Instantiations of the ‘teacher as researcher’ metaphor in Greece and Cyprus
Authors: Philippou Stavroula , Tsafos Vassilis
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the transfer, translation and recontextualisation of Laurence Stenhouse's work, as encapsulated in the ‘teacher as researcher’ metaphor, to the Greek language and in the fields of research and policy in Greece and Cyprus. We first briefly frame action research work as emerging through and within a specific space‐time (and in conversation with others in North America, Australia and Europe). We then trace its translation from English to Greek in specific key publications in books and articles (including his 1975 seminal work An introduction to curriculum research and development), which have since been central to curriculum studies as an academic field in both countries. We then construct four vignettes as cases of different uses of the metaphor in different fields. The first two refer to the institutional context of a new type of school called ‘second chance schools’ and a state policy for the professional development of teachers in Greece. The other two refer to an initial teacher education university programme and to the most recent school curriculum change in the Republic of Cyprus. We conclude by discussing certain patterns of constriction across the four vignettes in the recontextualisation of the ‘teacher as researcher’ to particular aspects of the metaphor as it morphed in two rather centralised contexts with a strong historical presence of a formal, state‐mandated curriculum and of teachers as public servants. Despite these patterns of constriction, we also note how other aspects of the metaphor provided conditions for some transformation.
Weight History Correlates of Resting Energy Expenditure in Women With Bulimia Nervosa
Authors: Singh Simar , Mayer Laurel , Rosenbaum Michael , Lowe Michael R.
Published: July 2024

Objective

Among those with bulimia nervosa, weight suppression has been associated with illness severity and treatment prognosis. Although significant weight loss is known to reduce metabolic rate, the relation between weight suppression and resting energy expenditure (REE) in bulimia nervosa has not been examined. This study tested the hypothesis of an inverse relation between weight suppression and REE in a sample of women with bulimia nervosa (N = 84).

Methods

In primary analyses, linear regressions were conducted between weight suppression and REE, corrected for fat‐free mass. In follow‐up, exploratory analyses, stepwise linear regressions were conducted to explore the main and interaction effects of weight history and weight suppression on REE.

Results

Neither traditional (TWS) nor developmental weight suppression (DWS) correlated with REE. Results from exploratory analyses, however, revealed a medium‐to‐large inverse relation between several weight history variables and REE (highest past weight, sr2 = 0.05; lowest postmorbid weight, sr2 = 0.07; current weight, sr2 = 0.05). Additionally, DWS interacted with current (sr2 = 0.08) and highest premorbid (sr2 = 0.05) z‐BMI to influence REE with a medium‐to‐large effect. For individuals low in current and premorbid z‐BMIs, higher DWS associated with lower REE levels. However, for individuals at higher premorbid z‐BMIs, higher DWS unexpectedly associated with greater REE levels.

Discussion

In this sample of women with bulimia nervosa, reduced REE associated with higher weights across all timepoints. If the interaction effect between DWS and z‐BMI history persists in future studies, this may indicate unique challenges faced by individuals low in z‐BMI and high in DWS related to weight gain and normalization of eating.
Challenging trophic position assessments in complex ecosystems: Calculation method, choice of baseline, trophic enrichment factors, season and feeding guild do matter: A case study from Marquesas Islands coral reefs
Authors: Letourneur Yves , Fey Pauline , Dierking Jan , Galzin René , Parravicini Valeriano
Published: July 2024

Assessments of ecosystem functioning are a fundamental ecological challenge and an essential foundation for ecosystem‐based management. Species trophic position (TP) is essential to characterize food web architecture. However, despite the intuitive nature of the concept, empirically estimating TP is a challenging task due to the complexity of trophic interaction networks. Various methods are proposed to assess TPs, including using different sources of organic matter at the base of the food web (the ‘baseline’). However, it is often not clear which methodological approach and which baseline choices are the most reliable. Using an ecosystem‐wide assessment of a tropical reef (Marquesas Islands, with available data for 70 coral reef invertebrate and fish species), we tested whether different commonly used TP estimation methods yield similar results and, if not, whether it is possible to identify the most reliable method. We found significant differences in TP estimates of up to 1.7 TPs for the same species, depending on the method and the baseline used. When using bulk stable isotope data, the choice of the baseline significantly impacted TP values. Indeed, while nitrogen stable isotope (δ15N) values of macroalgae led to consistent TP estimates, those using phytoplankton generated unrealistically low TP estimates. The use of a conventional enrichment factor (i.e. 3.4‰) or a ‘variable’ enrichment factor (i.e. according to feeding guilds) also produced clear discrepancies between TP estimates. TPs obtained with δ15N values of source amino acids (compound‐specific isotope analysis) were close to those assessed with macroalgae. An opposite seasonal pattern was found, with significantly lower TPs in winter than in summer for most species, with particularly pronounced differences for lower TP species. We use the observed differences to discuss possible drivers of the diverging TP estimates and the potential ecological implications.
Variations of floral temperature in changing weather conditions
Authors: Harrap Michael J. M. , de Vere Natasha , Hempel de Ibarra Natalie , Whitney Heather M. , Rands Sean A.
Published: July 2024

Floral temperature is a flower characteristic that has the potential to impact the fitness of flowering plants and their pollinators. Likewise, the presence of floral temperature patterns, areas of contrasting temperature across the flower, can have similar impacts on the fitness of both mutualists. It is currently poorly understood how floral temperature changes under the influence of different weather conditions, and how floral traits may moderate these changes. The way that floral temperature changes with weather conditions will impact how stable floral temperatures are over time and their utility to plants and pollinators. The stability of floral temperature cues is likely to facilitate effective plant–pollinator interactions and play a role in the plant's reproductive success. We use thermal imaging to monitor how floral temperatures and temperature patterns of four plant species (Cistus ‘snow fire’ and ‘snow white’, Coreopsis verticillata and Geranium psilostemon) change with several weather variables (illumination, temperature; windspeed; cloud cover; humidity and pressure) during times that pollinators are active. All weather variables influenced floral temperature in one or more species. The directionality of these relationships was similar across species. In all species, light conditions (illumination) had the greatest influence on floral temperatures overall. Floral temperature and the extent to which flowers showed contrasting temperature patterns were influenced predominantly by light conditions. However, several weather variables had additional, lesser, influences. Furthermore, differences in floral traits, pigmentation and structure, likely resulted in differences in temperature responses to given conditions between species and different parts of the same flower. However, floral temperatures and contrasting temperature patterns that are sufficiently elevated for detection by pollinators were maintained across most conditions if flowers received moderate illumination. This suggests the presence of elevated floral temperature and contrasting temperature patterns are fairly constant and may have potential to influence plant–pollinator interactions across weather conditions.
Temporal patterns in multiple stressors shape the vulnerability of overwintering Arctic zooplankton
Authors: Dania Albini , Lutier Mathieu , Heimböck Martin P. , Heuschele Jan , Søreide Janne E. , Jackson Michelle C. , Dinh Khuong V.
Published: July 2024

The Arctic polar nights bring extreme environmental conditions characterised by cold and darkness, which challenge the survival of organisms in the Arctic. Additionally, multiple anthropogenic stressors can amplify the pressure on the fragile Arctic ecosystems during this period. Determining how multiple anthropogenic stressors may affect the survival of Arctic life is crucial for ecological risk assessments and management, but this topic is understudied. For the first time, our study investigates the complex interactions of multiple stressors, exploring stressor temporal dynamics and exposure duration on a key Arctic copepod Calanus glacialis during the polar nights. We conducted experiments with pulse (intermittent) and press (continuous) exposure scenarios, involving microplastics, pyrene and warming in a fully factorial design. We observed significant effects on copepod survival, with pronounced impacts during later stressor phases. We also detected two‐way interactions between microplastics and pyrene, as well as pyrene and warming, further intensified with the presence of a third stressor. Continuous stressor exposure for 9 days (press‐temporal scenario) led to greater reductions in copepod survival compared to the pulse‐temporal scenario, characterised by two 3‐day stressor exposure phases. Notably, the inclusion of recovery phases, free from stressor exposure, positively influenced copepod survival, highlighting the importance of temporal exposure dynamics. We did not find behaviour to be affected by the different treatments. Our findings underscore the intricate interactions amongst multiple stressors and their temporal patterns in shaping the vulnerability of overwintering Arctic copepods with crucial implications for managing Arctic aquatic ecosystems under the fastest rate of ongoing climate change on earth.
Diagnostic evaluation of patients with epileptic spasms in the era of next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Mir Ali , AlQahtani Mohammed , Amer Fawzia , AlBaradie Raidah , AlOtaibi Wajd , AlGhamdi Fouad , Khallaf Hamoud , Bashir Shahid , Costain Gregory , Aljouda Liali , Housawi Yousef
Published: July 2024

Objective

Epileptic spasms (ES) can be caused by a variety of etiologies. However, in almost half of cases, the etiology is unidentified. With the advent of next‐generation sequencing (NGS), the recognition of genetic etiologies has increased.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with ES who were evaluated in the comprehensive epilepsy program at King Fahad Specialist Hospital Dammam between 2009 and 2022.

Results

Our data show that in 57.7% of patients with ES, the etiology was unidentified after a standard clinical evaluation and neuroimaging. Of these patients, n = 25 (35.2%) received a genetic diagnosis after some form of genetic testing, and 3.1% of patients from specialized metabolic work indicated the need for genetic testing to confirm the diagnosis. Karyotyping led to a diagnosis in 3.6% of patients, and chromosomal microarray led to a diagnosis in 7.1%. An NGS epilepsy gene panel (EP) was done for 45 patients, leading to a diagnosis in 24.4% (n = 11). Exome sequencing was done for 27 patients, including n = 14 with non‐diagnostic panel testing; it led to a diagnosis in 37.3% (n = 10). Exome sequencing led to a diagnosis in 61.5% of patients without a previous panel test and in only two patients who had previously had a negative panel testing.

Significance

In this article, we present the diagnostic evaluations of ES for a cohort of 123 patients and discuss the yield and priority of NGS for evaluating ES. Our findings suggest that exome sequencing has a higher diagnostic yield for determining the etiology of ES in patients for whom the etiology is still unclear after an appropriate clinical assessment and a brain MRI.
A study on the configuration of factors influencing overweight and obesity in adolescents based on fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis
Authors: Song Yiwen , Li Xinru , Hu Bingqin , Chen Yitong , Cui Peiyao , Liang Yifang , He Xin , Yang Guofeng , Li Jinghua
Published: July 2024

Objective

Overweight and obesity among adolescents are grave public health issues around the world. Although the conditions that contribute to obesity have been extensively researched, little is known about how multiple conditions interact to cause overweight and obesity. The current study intends to investigate the histomorphic configuration pathways of several conditions of adolescent overweight and obesity by gender.

Method

The data came from a social survey conducted in June 2021 in Changchun, Jilin Province, China. The sample collected was 14‐year‐old adolescents, including 167 boys and 137 girls. The school physicians examined the participants' weight and height, and questionnaires were used to collect risk indicators from adolescents, such as sleep duration, electronic screens times, consumption of sugary drinks and fried foods, and physical activity. Simultaneously, a Fuzzy Qualitative Comparative Analysis will be performed to investigate the combinations of diverse conditions.

Result

We found that there is no determining necessary condition that, once present, directly determines that an individual is in a state of overweight and obesity. Simultaneously, this study revealed nine alternative configurational paths of overweight and obesity in teenagers of different genders, with a concordance of 0.805 for six male groupings and 0.916 for three female groupings. The outcomes of overweight obesity in adolescents under different genders are similar but not identical.

Conclusion

This study examined the interactions of a number of conditions from the individual, behavioral, learning and living environment that led to the same overweight obese outcome among adolescents of different genders. Our research will be useful to policymakers in that interventions should take into account the combined effects of a number of different aspects rather than focusing on a single factor that causes overweight and obesity.
Treatment of bone‐cartilage defects with dual‐layer tissue‐engineered scaffolds loaded with icariin and quercetin
Authors: Dai Guoda , Xu Chen , Han Baoguo , Wang Zhichen , Cai Jianpin , You Wulin , Zhang Yafeng
Published: July 2024

Over the past few decades, significant research has been conducted on tissue‐engineered constructs for cartilage repair. However, there is a growing interest in addressing subchondral bone repair along with cartilage regeneration. This study focuses on a bilayer tissue engineering scaffold loaded with icariin (ICA) and quercetin (QU) for simultaneous treatment of knee joint cartilage and subchondral bone defects. The cytotoxicity of dual‐layer scaffolds loaded with ICA and QU was assessed through live/dead cell staining. Subsequently, these dual‐layer scaffolds loaded with ICA and QU were implanted into cartilage and subchondral bone defects in Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats. The repair effects were evaluated through macroscopic observation, computed tomography, and immunohistochemistry. After 12 weeks of implantation of dual‐layer scaffolds loaded with ICA and QU into the cartilage and bone defects of SD rats, better repair effects were observed in both cartilage and bone defects compared to the blank control group. We found that the dual‐layer tissue‐engineered scaffold loaded with ICA and QU had excellent biocompatibility and could effectively repair articular cartilage and subchondral bone injuries, showing promising prospects for clinical applications.
Amino acid metabolic reprogramming in the tumor microenvironment and its implication for cancer therapy
Authors: Zhang Jiarong , Chen Mingjian , Yang Yuxin , Liu Ziqi , Guo Wanni , Xiang Pingjuan , Zeng Zhaoyang , Wang Dan , Xiong Wei
Published: July 2024

Amino acids are essential building blocks for proteins, crucial energy sources for cell survival, and key signaling molecules supporting the resistant growth of tumor cells. In tumor cells, amino acid metabolic reprogramming is characterized by the enhanced uptake of amino acids as well as their aberrant synthesis, breakdown, and transport, leading to immune evasion and malignant progression of tumor cells. This article reviews the altered amino acid metabolism in tumor cells and its impact on tumor microenvironment, and also provides an overview of the current clinical applications of amino acid metabolism. Innovative drugs targeting amino acid metabolism hold great promise for precision and personalized cancer therapy.
Gene expression differences associated with intrinsic hindfoot muscle loss in the jerboa, Jaculus jaculus
Authors: Tran Mai P. , Ochoa Reyes Daniel , Weitzel Alexander J. , Saxena Aditya , Hiller Michael , Cooper Kimberly L.
Published: July 2024

Vertebrate animals that run or jump across sparsely vegetated habitats, such as horses and jerboas, have reduced the number of distal limb bones, and many have lost most or all distal limb muscle. We previously showed that nascent muscles are present in the jerboa hindfoot at birth and that these myofibers are rapidly and completely lost soon after by a process that shares features with pathological skeletal muscle atrophy. Here, we apply an intra‐ and interspecies differential RNA‐Seq approach, comparing jerboa and mouse muscles, to identify gene expression differences associated with the initiation and progression of jerboa hindfoot muscle loss. We show evidence for reduced hepatocyte growth factor and fibroblast growth factor signaling and an imbalance in nitric oxide signaling; all are pathways that are necessary for skeletal muscle development and regeneration. We also find evidence for phagosome formation, which hints at how myofibers may be removed by autophagy or by nonprofessional phagocytes without evidence for cell death or immune cell activation. Last, we show significant overlap between genes associated with jerboa hindfoot muscle loss and genes that are differentially expressed in a variety of human muscle pathologies and rodent models of muscle loss disorders. All together, these data provide molecular insight into the process of evolutionary and developmental muscle loss in jerboa hindfeet.