bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Examining Strategic human resource management and organizational effectiveness in Pakistani organizations
Authors: Khawaja Khurram Jawad , Azhar Sarwer , Arshad Attique
Published: December 2014

PurposeSHRM is facing potential theoretical challenge in terms of unveiling “black box” mystery lies between logical and strategic application of SHRM and its impact on organizational effectiveness. To explore the gap between HR contribution and competitive advantage gained by the organizations, a viable mediating framework is needed in SHRM.Design/Methodology/ApproachIn the awake of rising world interest in SHRM, this paper aimed to analyze the scholarly works on SHRM those offer to stimulate mechanisms and configurations through which SHRM can serve to improve organizational effectiveness. Outcome of the debate is likely to use in future empirical research.FindingsOrganization needs to distinguish itself in performance and strategy from the other organizations. Improvement in resources helps the organizations to gain competitive advantage. Resource-based view of the firm used as a lens for this study explains that difference in business’s performance is dependent upon resources owned by the business. This study attempts to offer a framework that proposes a strategy to distinguish itself in performance. HRM management set up in an organization gets influenced by HR system, and practices prevalent in the organization, workforce skills, employee level of competence, employee commitment and engagement. An organization cannot remain aloof from the repercussions of extraneous conditions such as political, economic, sociological, technological, legal and environment.Limitations and Future Research DirectionsThis conceptual study is limited to state and status of strategic HRM activities in Pakistani organizations. Future study may conduct empirical research by including employee perceptions as unit of analysis at the province level.Practical Implications The study is of great value to Pakistani organizations to excel on organizational effectiveness to optimize financial performance. This study offers a practical and rudimentary framework to implement desired strategic human resource management to gain organizational effectiveness.Key wordsSHRM, organizational effectiveness, Pakistan, framework
A Proposed Talent Management Model for Leader-Managers in State-Owned Enterprises in China
Authors: Brown Leann M.
Published: December 2014

Due to the continued reform of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in China, SOE leaders face many challenges competing in a rapidly changing global marketplace.  Not only are leaders tasked to manage change, but they must also deliver results and increase revenue through human capital.  The need for stronger human capital and human resources (HR) must play a stronger role in SOEs by adopting new strategies for talent management.The purpose of this study explores the experiences and perceptions of leader-managers as it relates to talent management in SOEs in China. Upon conducting phenomenological interviews with 11 state-owned companies and 17 leader-manager participants, analysis was completed to determine themes related to leadership-management selection, development, and practices in SOEs in China.  Themes emerged from the data analysis including organizational structure and its influence on leader-manager selection; an overview of the leadership pipeline present in SOEs including the recruitment and selection process and succession planning strategies; HR’s role within the recruitment and selection process; leadership-management development through experience and other development strategies; influence of Chinese and Western culture and on talent management and leader-manager practices.The findings were synthesized to introduce a proposed talent management model for SOEs in China.  The proposed model provides HR practitioners a framework to manage talent within their organizations, in particular in the areas of recruiting, developing, and retaining successful leader-managers within SOEs in China.
Factors Influencing the Adoption of E-Leader: An Empirical Field Study of Jordanian Banks
Authors: Qteishat Mazen Kamal
Published: December 2014

Recently, managers in the banking industry face challenges in leading employees who are geographically dispersed. The e-leader approach to leadership represents a solution to this challenge because it allows leaders to use technology to implement leadership processes. This research used data obtained from bank managers in Jordan to test a model of e-leader adoption derived from the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). 240 questionnaires were distributed to managers with 216 returned; however, 193 of the returned questionnaires were used for the purpose of this study. The findings provided support for the proposition that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, reliability, and responsiveness influence attitudes towards e-leader adoption. The findings also showed that these five variables accounted for almost half of the variance in attitude towards e-leader adoption. A positive attitude towards e-leader adoption accounts for a substantial amount of the variance in actual e-leader adoption.
Attitude of Private and Public Sector Employees towards Female Managers in Ghana
Authors: Arkorful Helen K. , Doe Frederick , Agyemang Collins B.
Published: December 2014

Many think-tanks and advocacy groups have sought to highlight the need to embrace women not only in mainstream employment but more importantly in leadership. The present study, which is a comparative study, looked at the differences between the traditional view of women and the attitude of employees towards female managers in the private and public sectors of Ghana. The study purposively selected 120 respondents from two private and public sector organizations with parity. Independent‘t’ test was employed in analysing the four hypotheses. Employees from public organizations showed more favourable attitude towards female managers than employees from the private sector. Employees who had had satisfying previous interactions with female managers were likely to express positive attitude toward them than those who had had regrettable experiences. Female employees and younger employees demonstrated more favourable attitudes toward female managers than male and older employees. The present findings lend support to the social identity theory that women would be more receptive than male to the appropriateness of having women serve in managerial roles but contradict the position of the role incongruity theory that women performing agentic roles characteristic of men will be resisted because they are performing roles uncharacteristic of their gender. Implication for employers, administrators and policy makers are discussed.
Staff Recruitment and Selection Process in the Nigerian Public Service: What is to be done?
Authors: Omisore Bernard Oladosu , Okofu Bernadette Ivhaorheme
Published: December 2014

The recruitment and selection of staff in any organization be it public or private sector is of paramount importance to the organization.  This is so because it is the staff that turns the vision and mission of the organization into reality.  Thus, the objectives of any organization can only be realized through the effective co-ordination of the human resource (staff) of the organization.  This paper attempts an examination of the process of staff recruitment and selection in the public service of Nigeria.Five relevant research questions were raised and addressed.  Descriptive statistics was used to analyse the data collected from respondents to the questionnaire designed for this purpose.  The results obtained showed that merit is often jettisoned on the altar of ethnicity and religion in recruitment into the public service in Nigeria.  Since the public service is directly controlled and regulated by the government, the Nigerian Federal Character    Principle was largely complied with. The study also reveals that though there are stipulated periods for recruitment and selection into the public service, these are often sidelined. This paper concludes by recommending that for government to operate the most efficient administrative service that would be beneficial to all, her recruitment and selection policies into the Nigerian public services should be unfettered. It should be able to absorb the most qualified, technically sound, disciplined and committed human resource that would in turn help government achieve the objectives of governance.
Total Quality Management in Higher Education: A Review
Authors: In'airat Mohammed Hasan. , Kassem Amer Hani Al-
Published: December 2014

Total Quality Management (TQM) is a perception, which educational institutions can only attain through long period of planning, by the formulation and execution of annual quality program, which substantially moves towards the accomplishment of the vision. Application of TQM concepts is one of such degree, which will go a long way in reviving the higher education system. This study endeavors to analyze TQM in higher education and outline the literature on Critical Success Factors (CSF) and its execution in all areas. The study concludes the CSF and its execution in higher education institutions.  Some institutions already enjoyed the advantages of TQM methods in their programs with determination and strict adoption of the system to achieve their goals.  The insight of this review is giving feedbacks of the recent studies on how TQM system will be able to utilize different instruments and hypothesis to legitimize employees, create a positive friendly environment and highlight the necessity of the students to bring out the best in them.
Effect of Thermal Process and Filtration on the Antioxidant Activity and Physicochemical Parameters of Agave atrovirens Extracts
Authors: Olvera-Garcia Victor , Cardador-Martinez Anaberta , Martin del Campo Sandra T.
Published: December 2014

Recently agave plants are being used in the production of syrups that are consumed by diabetic people in order to control their blood glucose levels; unfortunately a deep characterization of this kind of products has not been made. In this study the juice obtained from Agave atrovirens leaves (CE) was filtered and cooked (FE) and evaporated until it has a solid content of 20 ºBx (TE), and the effect of the process in some parameters like pH, acidity, solid content, 5-Hydroxymethylfurfural (5-HMF) and compounds with biological properties like saponins and phenolic compounds as well as antioxidant activity were evaluated. Once FE was concentrated, a dark brown liquid with a pH of 5.32 was obtained; the content of phenolics and saponins undergoes slightly modifications trough the complete process. 5-HMF was only detected in CE but not in FE and TE. Filtering decrease acidity, total phenolics, saponins, 5-HMF and the antiradical activity (ARA); and evaporation increase the content of reducing sugars and tends to increase the ARA value. For this study, we can conclude that the negative impact associated to a thermal process on bioactive compounds like phenols and antioxidant activity is negligible hence Agave atrovirens leaves could be a source of a product with phytochemicals.
Risk factors for HIV infection among circumcised men in Uganda: a case‐control study
Authors: Ediau Michael , Matovu Joseph KB , Byaruhanga Raymond , Tumwesigye Nazarius M , Wanyenze Rhoda K
Published: January 2015

Introduction

Male circumcision (MC) reduces the risk of HIV infection. However, the risk reduction effect of MC can be modified by type of circumcision (medical, traditional and religious) and sexual risk behaviours post‐circumcision. Understanding the risk behaviours associated with HIV infection among circumcised men (regardless of form of circumcision) is critical to the design of comprehensive risk reduction interventions. This study assessed risk factors for HIV infection among men circumcised through various circumcision approaches.

Methods

This was a case‐control study which enrolled 155 cases (HIV‐infected) and 155 controls (HIV‐uninfected), all of whom were men aged 18–35 years presenting at the AIDS Information Center for HIV testing and care. The outcome variable was HIV sero‐status. Using SPSS version 17, multivariable logistic regression was performed to identify factors independently associated with HIV infection.

Results

Overall, 83.9% among cases and 56.8% among controls were traditionally circumcised; 7.7% of cases and 21.3% of controls were religiously circumcised while 8.4% of cases and 21.9% of controls were medically circumcised. A higher proportion of cases than controls reported resuming sexual intercourse before complete wound healing (36.9% vs. 14.1%;p<0.01). Risk factors for HIV infection prior to circumcision were:being in a polygamous marriage (AOR: 6.6, CI: 2.3–18.8) and belonging to the Bagisu ethnic group (AOR: 6.1, CI: 2.6–14.0). After circumcision, HIV infection was associated with: being circumcised at >18 years (AOR: 5.0, CI: 2.4–10.2); resuming sexual intercourse before wound healing (AOR: 3.4, CI: 1.6–7.3); inconsistent use of condoms (AOR: 2.7, CI: 1.5–5.1); and having sexual intercourse under the influence of peers (AOR: 2.9, CI: 1.5–5.5). Men who had religious circumcision were less likely to have HIV infection (AOR: 0.4, 95% CI: 0.2–0.9) than the traditionally circumcised but there was no statistically significant difference between those who were traditionally circumcised and those who were medically circumcised (AOR: 0.40, 95% CI: 0.1–1.1).

Conclusions

Being circumcised at adulthood, resumption of sexual intercourse before wound healing, inconsistent condom use and having sex under the influence of peers were significant risk factors for HIV infection. Risk reduction messages should address these risk factors, especially among traditionally circumcised men.
Normalisation of brain connectivity through compensatory behaviour, despite congenital hand absence
Authors: Hahamy Avital , Sotiropoulos Stamatios N , Henderson Slater David , Malach Rafael , Johansen-Berg Heidi , Makin Tamar R
Published: January 2015

Previously we showed, using task-evoked fMRI, that compensatory intact hand usage after amputation facilitates remapping of limb representations in the cortical territory of the missing hand (Makin et al., 2013a). Here we show that compensatory arm usage in individuals born without a hand (one-handers) reflects functional connectivity of spontaneous brain activity in the cortical hand region. Compared with two-handed controls, one-handers showed reduced symmetry of hand region inter-hemispheric resting-state functional connectivity and corticospinal white matter microstructure. Nevertheless, those one-handers who more frequently use their residual (handless) arm for typically bimanual daily tasks also showed more symmetrical functional connectivity of the hand region, demonstrating that adaptive behaviour drives long-range brain organisation. We therefore suggest that compensatory arm usage maintains symmetrical sensorimotor functional connectivity in one-handers. Since variability in spontaneous functional connectivity in our study reflects ecological behaviour, we propose that inter-hemispheric symmetry, typically observed in resting sensorimotor networks, depends on coordinated motor behaviour in daily life.
Aboveground Arthropod Composition, Abundance and Guild Structure in Upland Rice Agro-ecosystem at Matalam, North Cotabato, Philippines
Authors: BALLERAS GINA D. , ENDONELA LEAH E.
Published: December 2014

With the recent innovations in the field of ecological pest management,conservation and enhancement of biological diversity at any rice agro-ecosystemshas received considerable attention. The composition and abundance ofaboveground arthropods was assessed on upland rice fields in Matalam, NorthCotabato, Southern Mindanao, Philippines. Sampling and monitoring was doneusing malaise trapping, sweep netting and direct counting techniques. A total of29 arthropod species belonging to 21 families in nine orders were documented.The collected samples were comprised of 40% insect pests, 53% predators and7% parasitoids. The three most abundant insect pests were rice bug (Leptocorisaoratorius), rice seedling maggot (Atherigona oryzae), and pink stemborer (Sesamia inferens). The predators are dominated by lady bird beetle (Micraspis spp.), social wasp (unknown) and long-jawed spider (Tetragnatha maxillosa). Ichneumonids,Braconids and Tachinids, though in smaller numbers, were present throughoutthe cropping season. More importantly, the study reported the presence of four rice stem borer species – Scirpophaga innotta, Scirpophaga incertulas, Sesamia infere and Chilo suppressalis and two rice grain bug species – Paraeucosmetuspallicornis and Elasmolomus sordidus in Matalam. The occurrence, compositionand abundance of insect pests and associated natural enemies vary with ricegrowth and developmental stages. The negative Pearson’s correlation coefficient (r= -0.31) between the insect pests and natural enemies was attributed to effectivecultural management practices which have been developed through decades ofsubsistence upland rice farming.Keywords: Ecology, aboveground arthropods, upland rice agro-ecosystem, sampling andmonitoring, Philippines
Patient-Reported Outcome Measures in Cancer Care
Authors: Balitsky Amaris K. , Rayner Daniel , Britto Joanne , Lionel Anath C. , Ginsberg Lydia , Cho Wanjae , Wilfred Ann Mary , Sardar Huda , Cantor Nathan , Mian Hira , Levine Mark N. , Guyatt Gordon H.
Published: August 2024

Importance

Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) come directly from the patient, without clinician interpretation, to provide a patient-centered perspective.

Objective

To understand the association of PROM integration into cancer care with patient-related, therapy-related, and health care utilization outcomes.

Data Sources

Searches included MEDLINE and MEDLINE Epub ahead of print, in-process, and other nonindexed citations; Embase databases (OvidSP); PsychINFO; CENTRAL; and CINAHL from January 1, 2012 to September 26, 2022.

Study Selection

Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that enrolled adult patients (ages 18 years and older) with active cancer receiving anticancer therapy using a PROM as an intervention.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

Pairs of review authors, using prepiloted forms, independently extracted trial characteristics, disease characteristics, and intervention details. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses reporting guideline was followed. Random-effects analyses were conducted.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Overall mortality, health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures, and hospital utilization outcomes.

Results

From 1996 to 2022, 45 RCTs including 13 661 participants addressed the association of PROMs with outcomes considered important to patients. The addition of a PROM likely reduced the risk of overall mortality (HR, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.72-0.98; moderate certainty), improved HRQoL (range 0-100) at 12 weeks (mean difference [MD], 2.45; 95% CI, 0.42-4.48; moderate certainty). Improvements of HRQoL at 24 weeks were not significant (MD, 1.87; 95% CI, −1.21 to 4.96; low certainty). There was no association between the addition of a PROM and HRQoL at 48 weeks. The addition of a PROM was not associated with reduced ED visits (OR, 0.74; 95% CI, 0.54-1.02; low certainty) or hospital admissions (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.73-1.02; low certainty).

Conclusion and Relevance

The findings of this study suggest that the integration of PROMs into cancer care may improve overall survival and quality of life.
Benchmarking Emergency Physician EHR Time per Encounter Based on Patient and Clinical Factors
Authors: Iscoe Mark S. , Venkatesh Arjun K. , Holland Margaret L. , Krumholz Harlan M. , Sheares Karen Dorsey , Melnick Edward R.
Published: August 2024

This cross-sectional study assesses the associations between patient and clinical factors and variations in time emergency department physicians spend using electronic health record (EHR) systems.
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment and Hypertensive Adverse Outcomes in Pregnancy
Authors: Lee Yi-Chieh , Chang Yun-Chen , Tseng Liang-Wei , Lin Wan-Ni , Lu Chun-Ting , Lee Li-Ang , Fang Tuan-Jen , Cheng Wen-Nuan , Li Hsueh-Yu
Published: August 2024

Importance

Pregnancy may contribute to the development or exacerbation of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and increase the risk of gestational complications. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the first-line and criterion standard treatment for OSA and is regarded as the most feasible choice during pregnancy. However, the association between CPAP therapy in pregnant women with OSA and reduced gestational complications remains inconclusive.

Objective

To investigate the association between CPAP therapy in pregnant women with OSA and the reduction of adverse hypertensive outcomes during gestation.

Data Sources

Keyword searches of PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Clinical Trials were conducted from inception to November 5, 2023.

Study Selection

Original studies reporting the treatment effect of CPAP use on lowering hypertension and preeclampsia risks in pregnant women with OSA were selected.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was followed in the reporting of reviews. Data were independently extracted by 2 authors. Random-effects model meta-analyses were performed and risk ratios (RRs) reported. Subgroup analysis, meta-regression based on age and body mass index (BMI; calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared), and publication bias assessment were also conducted.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary outcome was the RR of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia between pregnant women with OSA receiving CPAP treatment and those who did not receive CPAP treatment.

Results

Six original studies in 809 participants (mean age, 31.4 years; mean BMI, 34.0) were identified and systematically reviewed for meta-analysis. The pooled results showed significant differences between the intervention (CPAP use) and the control (non-CPAP use) groups in reducing the risk of gestational hypertension (RR, 0.65; 95% CI, 0.47-0.89; P = .008) and preeclampsia (RR, 0.70; 95% CI, 0.50-0.98; P = .04). Meta-regression revealed that patients’ age (coefficient, −0.0190; P = .83) and BMI (coefficient, −0.0042; P = .87) were not correlated with reduction of risk of hypertension and preeclampsia.

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that implementing CPAP treatment in pregnant women with OSA may reduce the risk of gestational hypertension and preeclampsia.
Development of the 2023 ACR/EULAR Antiphospholipid Syndrome Classification Criteria, Phase III‐D Report: Multicriteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Barbhaiya Medha , Zuily Stephane , Amigo Mary‐Carmen , Andrade Danieli , Avcin Tadej , Bertolaccini Maria Laura , Branch D. Ware , Costedoat‐Chalumeau Nathalie , Crowther Mark , Ramires de Jesus Guilherme , Devreese Katrien M. J. , Frances Camille , Garcia David , Gómez‐Puerta Jose A. , Guillemin Francis , Levine Steven R. , Levy Roger A. , Lockshin Michael D. , Ortel Thomas L. , Petri Michelle , Sanna Giovanni , Sciascia Savino , Seshan Surya V. , Tektonidou Maria G. , Wahl Denis , Willis Rohan , Yelnik Cecile , Hendry Alison , Naden Ray , Costenbader Karen , Erkan Doruk ,   the ACR/EULAR APS Classification Criteria Collaborators
Published: August 2024

Objective

The 2023 American College of Rheumatology/EULAR antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) classification criteria development, which aimed to identify patients with high likelihood of APS for research, employed a four‐phase methodology. Phase I and II resulted in 27 proposed candidate criteria, which are organized into laboratory and clinical domains. Here, we summarize the last stage of phase III efforts, employing a consensus‐based multicriteria decision analysis (MCDA) to weigh candidate criteria and identify an APS classification threshold score.

Methods

We evaluated 192 unique, international real‐world patients referred for “suspected APS” with a wide range of APS manifestations. Using proposed candidate criteria, subcommittee members rank ordered 20 representative patients from highly unlikely to highly likely to have APS. During an in‐person meeting, the subcommittee refined definitions and participated in an MCDA exercise to identify relative weights of candidate criteria. Using consensus decisions and pairwise criteria comparisons, 1000Minds software assigned criteria weights, and we rank ordered 192 patients by their additive scores. A consensus‐based threshold score for APS classification was set.

Results

Premeeting evaluation of 20 representative patients demonstrated variability in APS assessment. MCDA resolved 81 pairwise decisions; relative weights identified domain item hierarchy. After assessing 192 patients by weights and additive scores, the Steering Committee reached consensus that APS classification should require separate clinical and laboratory scores, rather than a single‐aggregate score, to ensure high specificity.

Conclusion

Using MCDA, candidate criteria preliminary weights were determined. Unlike other disease classification systems using a single‐aggregate threshold score, separate clinical and laboratory domain thresholds were incorporated into the new APS classification criteria.
Strongly Coupled NbSe2 Ultrathin Nanosheets/Graphene Heterostructure Facilitates Potassium Ion Storage
Authors: Zhou Jinhui , Zhao Shuoqing , Lv Fan , Luo Heng , Zhang Shipeng , Zhang Wenshu , Lin Fangxu , Zhang Weiyu , Wang Kai , Wang Dawei , Guo Shaojun
Published: August 2024

Layered transition metal dichalcogenides are of intensive interest for potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) due to their high theoretical capacity, relatively low working potential, and layered structures. However, the limited interlayer spacing poses challenges in accommodating large‐radius potassium ions, significantly affecting their rate and cycling performances, particularly for selenide counterparts. Herein, a class of the strongly coupled NbSe2 nanosheets (NSs)/graphene (G) heterostructure with expanded interlayer spacings and high electron conductivity for boosting the performance of potassium storage is reported. NbSe2 NSs/G delivers a reversible capacity of 348.4 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1, exceptional rate performance (117.5 mAh g−1 at an ultrahigh current density of 10.0 A g−1), and excellent cycle stability (capacity retention of 167.8 mAh g−1 after 2350 cycles under 2.0 A g−1), placing it among the top performers in reported TMD‐based PIB anodes. In situ XRD and Raman measurements reveal the intercalation‐based mechanism in NbSe2 NSs/G and the introduction of graphene can alleviate the severe volume change, making it possess superior rate performance and cycle stability Prominently, full‐cell PIBs employing NbSe2 NSs/G anodes demonstrate remarkable rate capability, and achieve a high energy density of 103.0 Wh kg−1 and a high power density of 1140.6 W kg−1.
Structural Regulation of Au‐Pt Bimetallic Aerogels for Catalyzing the Glucose Cascade Reaction
Authors: Wang Cui , Wang Lingwei , Nallathambi Varatharaja , Liu Yuanwu , Kresse Johannes , Hübner René , Reichenberger Sven , Gault Baptiste , Zhan Jinhua , Eychmüller Alexander , Cai Bin
Published: August 2024

Bimetallic nanostructures are promising candidates for the development of enzyme‐mimics, yet the deciphering of the structural impact on their catalytic properties poses significant challenges. By leveraging the structural versatility of nanocrystal aerogels, this study reports a precise control of Au–Pt bimetallic structures in three representative structural configurations, including segregated, alloy, and core–shell structures. Benefiting from a synergistic effect, these bimetallic aerogels demonstrate improved peroxidase‐ and glucose oxidase‐like catalytic performances compared to their monometallic counterparts, unleashing tremendous potential in catalyzing the glucose cascade reaction. Notably, the segregated Au–Pt aerogel shows optimal catalytic activity, which is 2.80 and 3.35 times higher than that of the alloy and core–shell variants, respectively. This enhanced activity is attributed to the high‐density Au–Pt interface boundaries within the segregated structure, which foster greater substrate affinity and superior catalytic efficiency. This work not only sheds light on the structure–property relationship of bimetallic catalysts but also broadens the application scope of aerogels in biosensing and biological detections.
Bubble‐Guidance Breaking Gas Shield for Highly Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Li Yuliang , Li Ke , Li Lu , Gao Jinxin , Wang Zhaoyang , Zou Wentao , Li Honghao , Zhang Qiuya , Li Yan , Zhang Xiaofang , Tian Dongliang , Jiang Lei
Published: August 2024

Overall water splitting is a promising technology for sustainable hydrogen production, but the primary challenge is removing bubbles from the electrode surface quickly to increase hydrogen production. Inspired by the directional fluid transport properties of natural biological surfaces like Nepenthes peristome and Morpho butterfly's wings, here a strategy is demonstrated to achieve highly efficient overall water splitting by a bubble‐guidance electrode, that is, an anisotropic groove‐micro/nanostructured porous electrode (GMPE). Gradient groove micro/nanostructures on the GMPE serve as high‐speed bubble transmission channels and exhibit superior bubble‐guidance capabilities. The synergistic effect of the asymmetric Laplace pressure generated between microscale porous structure and groove patterns and the buoyancy along the groove patterns pushes the produced bubbles directionally to spread, transport, and detach from the electrode surface in time. Moreover, the low adhesive nanosheet arrays are beneficial to reduce bubble size and increase bubble release frequency, which cooperatively improve mass transfer with the microscale structure. Notably, GMPE outperforms planar‐micro/nanostructured porous electrode (PMPE) in hydrogen/oxygen evolution reactions, with GMPE||GMPE showing better water splitting performance than commercially available RuO2||20 wt.% Pt/C. This work improves electrodes for better mass transfer and kinetics in electrochemical reactions at solid‐liquid‐gas interfaces, offering insight for designing and preparing gas‐involved photoelectrochemical electrodes.
Long‐Range Non‐Coulombic Coupling at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 Interface
Authors: Nethwewala Aditi , Eom Kitae , Yu Muqing , Ramachandran Ranjani , Eom Chang‐Beom , Irvin Patrick , Levy Jeremy
Published: August 2024

The LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface hosts a plethora of gate‐tunable electronic phases. Gating of LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interfaces is usually assumed to occur electrostatically. However, increasing evidence suggests that non‐local interactions can influence and, in some cases, dominate the coupling between applied gate voltages and electronic properties. Here, quasi‐1D ballistic electron waveguides are sketched at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface as a probe to understand how gate tunability varies as a function of spatial separation. Gate tunability measurements reveal the scaling law to be at odds with the pure electrostatic coupling observed in traditional semiconductor systems. The non‐Coulombic gating at the interface is attributed to a long‐range nanoelectromechanical coupling between the gate and electron waveguide, possibly mediated by the ferroelastic domains in SrTiO3. The long‐range interactions at the LaAlO3/SrTiO3 interface add unexpected richness and complexity to this correlated electron system.
Multifunctional Metasurface: Holography and Spot Cloud Projection
Authors: Guo Shuhan , Shao Yifan , Zhan Junjie , Yu Jiaqi , Wang Yubo , Choudhury Pankaj K. , Hernandez‐Figueroa Hugo E. , Ma Yungui
Published: August 2024

Multifunctionality, integration, and miniaturization are the mainstream trends in modern device development. However, optical display and depth perception, essential for innovative applications like intelligent driving and mixed reality, are typically achieved separately in complex and bulky optical systems. Metasurfaces, ultrathin artificial optical surfaces with strong light–matter interaction capabilities at the nanoscale, offer a versatile platform for creating multifunctional, highly integrated, and miniaturized devices by fully exploring spatial multiplexing and utilizing variables like location, polarization, and frequency. In this study, a multifunctional metasurface that integrates meta‐holography with Dammann gratings is presented. By engineering the phase profile, the device can display specific holographic images in the Fresnel region while simultaneously producing a high‐density spot cloud with over 37 000 spots covering the entire half space. As a proof‐of‐concept, a projection and reconstruction experiment is performed to elaborate its potential for retrieving three‐dimensional (3D) spatial information of real scenarios. The simultaneous generation of display and point cloud holds significant promise for applications in cutting‐edge imaging technologies such as intelligent driving and robot vision.
Effect of abdominal adipose tissue glucose uptake on brain aging
Authors: Lu Weizhao , Duan Yanhua , Li Kun , Cheng Zhaoping , Qiu Jianfeng
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

Abdominal adipose tissue (AT) mass has adverse effects on the brain. This study aimed to investigate the effect of glucose uptake by abdominal AT on brain aging.

METHODS

Three‐hundred twenty‐five participants underwent total‐body positron emission tomography scan. Brain age was estimated in an independent test set (n = 98) using a support vector regression model that was built using a training set (n = 227). Effects of abdominal subcutaneous and visceral AT (SAT/VAT) glucose uptake on brain age delta were evaluated using linear regression.

RESULTS

Higher VAT glucose uptake was linked to negative brain age delta across all subgroups. Higher SAT glucose uptake was associated with negative brain age delta in lean individuals. In contrast, increased SAT glucose uptake demonstrated positive trends with brain age delta in female and overweight/obese participants.

DISCUSSION

Increased glucose uptake of the abdominal VAT has positive influences on the brain, while SAT may not have such influences, except for lean individuals.

Highlights

Higher glucose uptake of the visceral adipose tissue was linked to decelerated brain aging.

Higher glucose uptake of the subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) was associated with negative brain age delta in lean individuals.

Faster brain aging was associated with increased glucose uptake of the SAT in female and overweight and obese individuals.
N‐Heterocyclic Carbene Enabled Copper Catalyzed Asymmetric Synthesis of Pyrimidinyl Phosphine with both Axial and P‐Stereogenicity
Authors: Cui Ranran , Zhang Yuxiang , Huang Zhuo , Yuwen Liyan , Xu Yuming , Zhang Qing‐Wei
Published: August 2024

P‐stereogenic phosphines, renowned for their utility as ligands and catalysts, have been instrumental in the field of asymmetric catalysis. However, the catalytic asymmetric synthesis of chiral ligands possessing both axial and phosphine chirality remains a significant challenge. Here, we present the successful demonstration of a Cu‐catalyzed asymmetric C−P construction using in situ generated secondary phosphine and heteroaryl chloride. By introducing a chiral NHC ligand and an achiral diphosphine auxiliary ligand, we effectively alleviated the poisoning effect caused by phosphine(III) compounds and suppressed the nonenantioselective background reaction. The reaction exhibited excellent enantioselectivity, with up to 96 % ee, and good diastereoselectivity, with up to 14 : 1 dr, when employing less sterically hindered secondary phosphines. This particular substrate poses a significant challenge due to its strong poisoning effect in copper catalysis.
Enhanced Alkene Oxidative Cleavage in Water via Photoexcited FeIV Species within Covalent Organic Framework Thin Films
Authors: Majumder Poulami , Mohata Shibani , Sasmal Himadri Sekhar , Chandra Bittu , Kuiry Himangshu , Banerjee Rahul
Published: August 2024

The oxidative cleavage of alkenes is a crucial step in synthesizing key organic molecules featuring carbonyl functional groups prevalent in natural products and pharmaceuticals. We introduce a photochemical method for heterogeneous C=C bond cleavage, employing photo‐catalytically generated [(bTAML)FeIV−O−FeIV(bTAML)]− species (where bTAML stands for biuret‐modified tetraamido macrocyclic ligand) in aqueous environments under gentle conditions. Leveraging the photosensitizing properties of Covalent Organic Frameworks (COFs) and their advantageous morphological traits as films, we enhance the reaction by closely associating the substrate with the catalyst. This study marks the inaugural demonstration of Fe2IV‐μ‐oxo radical cation and FeIV=O species facilitating alkene cleavage in water against a backdrop of a hydrophobic COF. Through comprehensive mechanistic studies, including control experiments, we confirm that these two high‐valent iron oxo species collaborate to cleave alkenes, forming an intermediate epoxide. Our approach yields moderate to high success across various alkenes, displaying diverse functional groups (achieving up to 75 % yield) with notable efficiency and selectivity towards aldehyde/ketone products. Moreover, the heterogeneous COF film, immobilizing (Et4N)2[FeIII(Cl)bTAML], exhibits exceptional recyclability, enduring up to four cycles.
Ferroptose‐induzierender Co(III) Polypyridin Sulfasalazin Komplex für die verbesserte Krebstherapie
Authors: Montesdeoca Nicolás , Johannknecht Lukas , Efanova Elizaveta , Heinen‐Weiler Jacqueline , Karges Johannes
Published: August 2024

Trotz erheblicher Verbesserungen bei der Behandlung von Krebstumoren in den letzten Jahrzehnten bleibt Krebs eine der tödlichsten Krankheiten weltweit. Um die Unzulänglichkeiten der derzeit angewandten chemotherapeutischen Behandlungen zu überwinden, wurden viele Forschungsanstrengungen auf die Entwicklung von Ferroptose‐induzierenden Antikrebsmitteln gerichtet. Die Ferroptose ist eine neu beschriebene Form des regulierten, nicht‐apoptotischen Zelltods, der in der Klinik ein hohes Potenzial besitzt. In diesem Artikel wird über die chemische Synthese und biologische Evaluation eines Co(III) Polypyridin Sulfasalazin Komplexes als Ferroptose‐Induktor berichtet. Nach dem Eindringen in die Krebszellen reicherte sich der Metallkomplex vor allem in den Mitochondrien an und löste dort die Produktion von Hydroxy‐Radikalen und Lipidperoxiden aus, was schließlich zum Zelltod durch Ferroptose führte. Die Verbindung vernichtete nachweislich verschiedene Krebszellen sowie multizelluläre Kolonkarzinom‐Tumor‐Sphäroide. Soweit wir wissen, handelt es sich bei dieser Studie um das erste Beispiel für einen Co(III)‐Komplex, der Ferroptose auslösen kann.
Ferroptosis Inducing Co(III) Polypyridine Sulfasalazine Complex for Therapeutically Enhanced Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Montesdeoca Nicolás , Johannknecht Lukas , Efanova Elizaveta , Heinen‐Weiler Jacqueline , Karges Johannes
Published: August 2024

Despite significant improvements in the treatment of cancerous tumors in the last decades, cancer remains one of the deadliest diseases worldwide. To overcome the shortcomings of currently applied chemotherapeutic treatments, much research efforts have been devoted towards the development of ferroptosis inducing anticancer agents. Ferroptosis is a newly described form of regulated, non‐apoptotic cell death that is associated with high potential inside the clinics. Herein, the chemical synthesis and biological evaluation of a Co(III) polypyridine sulfasalazine complex as a ferroptosis inducer is reported. Upon entering the cancerous cells, the metal complex primarily accumulated in the mitochondria, triggering the production of hydroxy radicals and lipid peroxides, ultimately causing cell death by ferroptosis. The compound demonstrated to eradicate various monolayer cancer cells as well as colon carcinoma multicellular tumor spheroids. To the best of our knowledge this study reports on the first example of a Co(III) complex that is capable of inducing ferroptosis.
An EM‐based likelihood inference for degradation data analysis using gamma process
Authors: Palayangoda Lochana , Balakrishnan N.
Published: August 2024

The gamma process is widely used for the lifetime estimation of highly reliable products that degrade over time. Typically, incomplete likelihood is used to estimate the model parameters and the reliability estimates for the first passage time distribution of the gamma process; however, it (i.e., pseudo method) does not consider interval censoring and right censoring information of the degradation data. In this work, the expectation‐maximization algorithm‐based method (EM method) is developed for the estimation of the gamma process model parameters and the reliability estimates incorporating interval censoring and right censoring. The asymptotic variance–covariance matrix and the asymptotic confidence intervals for the parameters are constructed, and then a comparison between the pseudo method and the EM method is made. Monte Carlo simulation studies and real‐life data applications are conducted in order to illustrate the performance of the proposed EM method over the pseudo method.
Axillary and subclavian venous spasm during pacemaker implantation – A case report and literature review
Authors: Venet Amelie , Vergier Romain , Cenac Kurlene , Inamo Jocelyn , Müssigbrodt Andreas
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Venous spasm is an important reason for complicated or failed implantations of cardiac implantable electronic devices. Prevention or risk reduction of venous spasm during cardiac implantable electronic device implantation may be achieved by ultrasound or fluoroscopic imaging prior to puncture, cephalic vein cut‐down, sufficient pre‐ and perioperative hydration, nitroglycerin injection and effective sedation, and analgesia.

This case report with literature review focuses on venous spasm as a potential cause for complicated implantations of cardiac implantable electronic devices. The case report is clinically relevant as it describes a progressive spasm affecting the axillary and the subclavian vein. A 66‐year‐old female complained of symptomatic atrial fibrillation (AF) and atypical atrial flutter despite interventional and medical treatment. As an ultimate treatment, she was scheduled for pacemaker implantation and atrioventricular node ablation. Several puncture attempts of the axillary vein failed. Despite venous blood aspiration, no guidewires could be advanced into the axillary vein. We performed a first venogram revealing significant spasm of the axillary vein. Another failed venous puncture occurred after change of access site to the subclavian vein. A second venogram displayed progression of the spasm, now affecting both the axillary and the subclavian veins. Normal saline perfusion was administered as well as intravenous isosorbide. Unfortunately, a repeated venogram after 15 min waiting time showed persistence of the spasm, still affecting both veins. The procedure was discontinued as the patient became uncomfortable. Venous spasm is an important reason for complicated or failed implantations of cardiac implantable electronic devices. Commonly used medical prevention and treatment are intravenous fluids and nitroglycerin. Prevention or risk reduction of venous spasm during cardiac implantable electronic device implantation may be achieved by ultrasound or fluoroscopic imaging prior to puncture, cephalic vein cut‐down, sufficient pre‐ and perioperative hydration, nitroglycerin injection and effective sedation and analgesia.
Ternary‐Grafted Starch‐Based Hydrogel with Improved Adsorption Capacity for Dyes
Authors: Haihua Li , Jingyu Guan , Yuqi Yang , Yuxuan Zheng , Yuhua Gao , Meifang Yan , Na Li , Lihui Zhang , Shengxiu Ma , Chen Chen , Jian Liu , Shuxing Mei , Shasha Wang
Published: August 2024

Biomass‐based hydrogels can be used as the adsorbents in sewage water, as they have good adsorption capacity for heavy ions and dyes. A ternary‐grafted starch‐based hydrogel, St1.0/CMC0.5/P(AM3.0‐AA5.0‐AMPS1.0), was prepared using cornstarch (St) and sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) as raw materials, with acrylamide (AM), acrylic acid (AA), and 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane sulfonic acid (AMPS) as graft monomers. Due to the introduction of CMC and AMPS, the number and type of effective adsorption functional groups in the St1.0/CMC0.5/P(AM3.0‐AA5.0‐AMPS1.0) hydrogel increased, leading to an improved adsorption capacity and removal rate for methylene blue (MB). The maximum adsorption capacity and removal rate for MB could be 1624.49 mg/g and 91.8 %, respectively, at 25 °C. According to the adsorption isotherm and adsorption kinetics, the MB adsorption process on the hydrogel occurs according to the Langmuir isotherm model and quasi‐second‐order kinetics via a chemisorption process occurring on the adsorbent monolayer. Moreover, the St1.0/CMC0.5/P(AM3.0‐AA5.0‐AMPS1.0) hydrogel displayed good regeneration performance. The removal rate for MB could still achieve 84.3 % after the hydrogel was reused four times.
Design, Synthesis, and In Vitro and In Silico Evaluation of 1,3,4‐Oxadiazoles as Anti‐Trypanosoma cruzi and Anti‐Leishmania mexicana Agents
Authors: Delgado‐Maldonado Timoteo , Moreno‐Rodríguez Adriana , González‐Morales Luis D. , Flores‐Villegas Any Laura , Rodríguez‐González Jorge , Rodríguez‐Páez Lorena , Aguirre‐Alvarado Charmina , Sánchez‐Palestino Luis M. , Ortiz‐Pérez Eyra , Rivera Gildardo
Published: August 2024

A series of novel 4‐acetyl‐1,3,4‐oxadiazole derivatives was designed and synthesized for their biological evaluation in vitro against Trypanosoma cruzi (T. cruzi) and Leishmania mexicana (L. mexicana). Additionally, all compounds were evaluated by molecular docking on the cruzain of T. cruzi (TcCz) and the cysteine protease B (CPB) of L. mexicana (LmCPB) to know their potential mechanism of binding. Compound OX‐12 had better trypanocidal activity against NINOA (IC50=10.5 μM) and A1 (IC50=21.7 μM) T. cruzi strains that reference drug benznidazole (IC50=30.3 μM and 39.8 μM, respectively). Compound OX‐2 had the best biological activity against L. mexicana in M379 (IC50=11.9 μM) and FCQEPS (IC50=34.0 μM) strains that the reference drug glucantime (IC50>120 μM). All the compounds showed important interactions with residues on the active site of TcCz (Gly66, Trp26, Leu67, and Ala138) and LmCPB (Gly67, Asn62, Leu68, and Ala140). Finally, the molecular dynamics simulations of the compound OX‐12 shown moderate stability from 40–115 ns with an RMSD value of 6.5 Å. Meanwhile, compound OX‐2 showed a minor stability in complex with CPB from 25–200 ns of simulation (RMSD<9 Å). These results encourage to develop more potent and efficient trypanocidal and leishmanicidal agents using the 1,3,4‐oxadiazole scaffold.