bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nickelacyclobutanes: Versatile Reactivity and Role as Catalytic Intermediates
Authors: Sansores‐Paredes María L. G. , Pérez‐García Pablo M. , Moret Marc‐Etienne
Published: June 2023

Metallacyclobutanes are intermediates in several catalytic cycles such as olefin metathesis and cyclopropanation. Furthermore, nickel is attracting attention as a versatile, earth‐abundant metal in developing new homogeneous catalytic transformations. In this context, the current literature on nickelacyclobutanes and their role in catalysis is reviewed. First, catalytic reactions involving a (putative) nickelacyclobutane intermediate are discussed, including cyclopropanations and various transformations of methylenecyclopropane. Second, studies of the stoichiometric reactivity of nickelacyclobutanes relying on their direct observation or even isolation are detailed. In particular, the relationship between the structure of nickelacyclobutanes and their reactivity is highlighted. Finally, future prospects for the development of new catalytic transformations relying on nickelacyclobutane intermediates are briefly outlined.
Metal‐Free Oxyacetoxylation of Arylynamines and Ynamides To Construct α‐Acetoxyl Amides
Authors: Long Rong , Huang Shaoling , Wu Han‐Kui , Iqbal Naila , Wu Na
Published: June 2023

Ynamides/arylynamines are challenging substrates for oxyacetoxylation, especially due to various reactive sites of the N‐heteroaryl ring. Herein, we report a metal‐free PhI(OAc)2‐mediated oxyacetoxylation of arylynamines/ynamides to provide α‐acetoxyl amides in good to excellent yields. The transformation completes in a short time to afford solely the product in a highly regio‐ and chemo‐selective manner through β‐iodo keteneiminium intermediate, without functionalising the N‐heteroaryl moiety.
Base‐Promoted Difunctionalization of Alkynes: One‐Pot Synthesis of Polysubstituted Chromones
Authors: Wang Mengdan , Cheng Lu , Ma Junying , Lu Weiwei , Wang Junling
Published: June 2023

A transition‐metal‐free one‐pot procedure for the difunctionalization of alkynes by C−C triple bond oxidation and transformation towards chromone derivatives has been developed. It involves cascade reactions for carbonylation of alkynes, base‐promoted C−C σ‐bond cleavage, and intramolecular cyclization. This procedure provides an efficient protocol for the synthesis of polysubstituted chromones from readily available starting materials.
Fire reaction properties of bio‐based aggregates used in thermally insulated building components
Authors: Rocha Monique , Gomes Bruno , Aguiar Amanda , Landesmann Alexandre , Hasparyk Nicole Pagan , Toledo Filho Romildo
Published: June 2023

Bio‐based aggregates can be seen as one of the promising alternatives to reduce the environmental impacts of buildings due to their lower carbon footprint and energy efficiency. They have great potential to be incorporated into inorganic matrices and produce insulating materials. However, there is a lack of information about the flammability of these materials. This work presents the results of an experimental investigation of the fire behaviour of bio‐based materials. In this study, wastes of bamboo, wood shavings and rice husk were used and were evaluated for their fire performance in the natural state and after treatment in an alkaline solution. The fire reaction properties were determined by using a Mass Loss Cone Calorimeter in order to obtain the parameters of heat release rate (HRR), total heat released (THR), effective heat of combustion (EHC), total mass loss (TML), ignition time (IT) and time of combustion (TC). In addition, physical characterization and thermogravimetric tests were carried out as well as scanning electron microscopy analyses. The results show that the alkaline treatment of the bio‐based aggregates is able to reduce the average HRR and the EHC of all bio‐aggregates but does not delay the ignition of these materials. Among the residues studied, rice husk presented the lowest peaks and averages of HRR, THR, total mass loss, EHC and time to flameout; however, the ignition occurred faster.
Ergonomic assessment for designing manual material handling tasks at a food warehouse in India: A case study
Authors: Adhaye Amit M. , Jolhe Dhananjay A.
Published: June 2023

Manual handling of heavy grain bags is a commonplace activity across agriculture produce supply chain. In the present research, a manual material handling involving lifting, lowering, and carrying grain bags along the paths of variable characteristics is critically analyzed to explore the risk associated with it. The humans engaged in this activity are found to be facing discomfort, suffering from pain and musculoskeletal disorders, and undergoing medication for the same. This study proposes and demonstrates a structured ergonomic evaluation methodology to not only assess the level of discomfort/pain but also evaluate risk factors such as load handled, method of handling, frequency of handling, awkward postures, path characteristics, and so on. It employs a systematic multimethod approach consisting of Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire and Borg Rating of Perceived Exertion, Ovako Working posture Assessment System, NIOSH Lifting Equation, Rapid Entire Body Assessment, and Key Indicator Method. The study reveals that about 94% of the sample population suffered from moderate to severe discomfort in ankle, knee, and lower back. Eight basic activities responsible for risky postures are identified. Frequency of handling, weight being handled, back bending/twisting, poor coupling, and walking surface are observed as major contributors to musculoskeletal discomfort. Carrying on shoulder is found to be riskier than carrying on back; however, the risk is found to be significantly lowered by carrying on backpack. The present study identifies the need for task redesign, proper gripping arrangements, auxiliary devices for lifting/carrying, and improvement in the path characteristics.
SLE initially presenting with neuropsychiatric manifestations and seizure, case report
Authors: Khormi Abdulrahman Ali M. , Hijazi Faisal Taher
Published: June 2023

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a multisystem autoimmune disorder exhibiting variable disease courses and multiple clinical manifestations. SLE's aetiology remains unclear; however, different environmental (e.g., ultraviolet light, infections, drugs, etc.), genetic, and hormonal factors are potentially involved. A positive family history and history of having other autoimmune illnesses are considered high‐risk factors for SLE; nevertheless, most SLE cases are scattered. The 2019 European League Against Rheumatism/American College of Rheumatology classification criteria for SLE include at least one positive antinuclear antibody test as a mandatory entry criterion, followed by additive weighted standards grouped in seven clinical (constitutional, haematological, neuropsychiatric, serosal, musculoskeletal, renal, and mucocutaneous) and three immunological (antiphospholipid antibodies, complement proteins, and SLE‐specific antibodies) domains weighted from 2 to 10, with patients accumulating ≥10 points being diagnosed with SLE. Herein, we report a case of neuropsychiatric lupus, a rare and severe form of SLE.
The Supra‐System Model
Authors: McDermott Tom , Alexander Kelly , Wallace Richard
Published: June 2023

This article presents an initial set of concepts resulting from research by the Office of the Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (OUSD/RE) and the Systems Engineering Research Center (SERC) under an initiative called “systems engineering modernization” (SEMOD). This article discusses the “supra‐system model,” which evolved as a different view of systems engineering lifecycle activities across the entire life of an engineered system. This view promotes systems engineering as a continuous process that is 1) iterative across the full life of a system and 2) managed through a digital transformation centered on data and models. This article also discusses the value of “shared and authoritatively managed data and models” in the lifecycle of future systems. These together present a modernized view of systems engineering where “seamless and efficient transfer of data and models” will support practices that are “more agile and responsive to changing stakeholder needs.”
Diversification in the tourism sector and economic growth in Australia: a disaggregated analysis
Authors: Solarin Sakiru Adebola , Lasisi Taiwo Temitope , Hossain Md. Emran , Bekun Festus Victor
Published: June 2023

In most countries inclusive of Australia, tourism policies do not only deal with how to diversify tourism markets but also how to diversify tourism activities. Efforts are often made to increase the inflows of tourists from different source markets and to improve arrivals for various tourism activities. However, the existing literature on the economic impact of the diversification of the sector has not dealt with the economic impact of diversification of tourism markets. This study aims to examine the economic impact of diversification of both tourism markets and tourism activities. Using a newly developed tourism diversification index, the focus of the study is on Australia for the period, 1976–2020. Utilizing a dynamic autoregressive lag simulation approach, the results suggest that diversification of tourism markets and activities generated positive economic growth in Australia in line with the notion of tourism‐led growth hypothesis. Empirical results outline that a 1% increase in diversification of tourism markets and activities generated increases in the gross domestic product by 0.010% and 0.070%, respectively. One of the implications of the results is that policies to diversify tourism markets and activities will be beneficial to the economy in Australia.
Morphological and physiological impacts of salinity on colonial strains of the cyanobacteria Microcystis aeruginosa
Authors: Bormans Myriam , Legrand Benjamin , Waisbord Nicolas , Briand Enora
Published: June 2023

In the context of global change and enhanced toxic cyanobacterial blooms, cyanobacterial transfer to estuaries is likely to increase in frequency and intensity and impact animal and human health. Therefore, it is important to evaluate the potential of their survival in estuaries. In particular, we tested if the colonial form generally observed in natural blooms enhanced the resistance to salinity shock compared to the unicellular form generally observed in isolated strains. We tested the impact of salinity on two colonial strains of Microcystis aeruginosa, producing different amounts of mucilage by combining classical batch methods with a novel microplate approach. We demonstrate that the collective organization of these pluricellular colonies improves their ability to cope with osmotic shock when compared to unicellular strains. The effect of a sudden high salinity increase (S ≥ 20) over 5 to 6 days had several impacts on the morphology of M. aeruginosa colonies. For both strains, we observed a gradual increase in colony size and a gradual decrease in intercellular spacing. For one strain, we also observed a decrease in cell diameter with an increase in mucilage extent. The pluricellular colonies formed by both strains could withstand higher salinities than unicellular strains studied previously. In particular, the strain producing more mucilage displayed a sustained autofluorescence even at S = 20, a limit that is higher than the most robust unicellular strain. These results imply survival and possible M. aeruginosa proliferation in mesohaline estuaries.
XRCC1, ABCB1, CYP3A5 and GSTP1 gene polymorphism associated with platinum‐based drugs induced hematotoxicity in Chinese oesophageal cancer patients
Authors: Chen Shuang , Xiao Xiao , Chen Jianliang , Chen Yun , Wang Zixian , Qiu Guodong , Zhang Shuyao , Zhong Shilong
Published: June 2023

Background

Hematotoxicity, including severe myelosuppression, is a common adverse drug reaction (ADR) during platinum‐based treatment for oesophageal cancer (EC).

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with platinum‐induced hematotoxicity in patients with EC, as the relationship between SNPs and this ADR is incompletely demonstrated.

Methods

A total of 262 patients receiving platinum‐based chemotherapy (cisplatin, nedaplatin, carboplatin and oxaliplatin) were enrolled in this study. Ten SNPs in eight genes were genotyped via multiplex polymerase chain reaction and sequenced to evaluate their relationship with severe myelosuppression and its subset of leukopenia and neutropenia.

Results

Multivariate logistic analysis of cisplatin cohort in severe leukopenia group showed an odds ratio (OR) of GG + GA versus AA in ABCB1 rs1045642 was 5.83 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.63–20.83, p = 0.007, false discovery rate (FDR) = 0.028), while the OR of AA versus AG + GG in rs1128503 was 0.34 (95% CI 0.14–0.86, p = 0.022, FDR = 0.044). In nedaplatin cohort of neutropenia group, the OR of AA versus GG, AA + AG versus GG in GSTP1 rs1695 was 10.34 (95% CI 1.71–62.40, p = 0.011, FDR = 0.040) and 7.48 (95% CI 1.37–40.81, p = 0.020, FDR = 0.040) respectively. XRCC1 rs1799782 GG genotype in nedaplatin cohort of myelosuppression group and CYP3A5 rs776746 CT genotype in nedaplatin cohort of severe leukopenia group and platinum cohorts of all groups appeared to be risk factors with the p values less than 0.05, but FDR values were all greater than 0.05.

Conclusion

This study identified SNPs of XRCC1, ABCB1, CYP3A5 and GSTP1 related to hematotoxicity of platinum‐based drugs, thereby providing a novel theoretical basis for the prediction and prevention of ADRs in platinum‐based chemotherapy.
Accelerated dynamic MR imaging with joint balanced low‐rank tensor and sparsity constraints
Authors: He Jingfei , Mi Chenghu , Liu Xiaotong , Zhao Yuanqing
Published: June 2023

Background

Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging (DMRI) is an essential medical imaging technique, but the slow data acquisition process limits its further development.

Purpose

By exploiting the inherent spatio‐temporal correlation of MR images, low‐rank tensor based methods have been developed to accelerate imaging. However, the tensor rank used by these methods is defined by an unbalanced matricization scheme, which cannot capture the global correlation of DMR data efficiently during the reconstruction process.

Methods

In this paper, an effective reconstruction model is proposed to achieve accurate reconstruction by using the tensor train (TT) rank defined by a well‐balanced matricization scheme to exploit the hidden correlation of DMR data and combining sparsity. Meanwhile, the ket augmentation (KA) technology is introduced to preprocess the DMR data into a higher‐order tensor through block structure addressing, which further improves the ability of TT rank to explore the local information of the image. In order to solve the proposed model, the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) is used to decompose the optimization problem into several unconstrained subproblems.

Results

The performance of the proposed method was validated on the 3D DMR image dataset by using different sampling trajectories and sampling rates. Extensive numerical experiments demonstrate that the reconstruction quality of the proposed method is superior to several state‐of‐the‐art reconstruction methods.

Conclusions

The proposed method successfully utilizes the TT rank to explore the global correlation of DMR images, enabling more detailed information of the image to be captured. Besides, with the sparse priors, the proposed method can further improve the overall reconstruction quality for highly undersampled MR images.
Longitudinal characteristics of insight and clinical factors in patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Sakai Yoshie , Ito Satsuki , Matsumoto Junya , Yasuda Yuka , Yamamori Hidenaga , Fujimoto Michiko , Hasegawa Naomi , Ishimaru Keiichiro , Miura Kenichiro , Hashimoto Ryota
Published: June 2023

Aims

Schizophrenia is a psychiatric disorder presenting a lack of insight. Although insight changes over time, longitudinal studies of insight in schizophrenia are scarce. Furthermore, most previous studies on insight and intelligence have not measured full‐scale IQ and have not been able to examine the relationship between detailed dimensions of cognitive function and insight. In this study, we assessed insight at two time points and assessed dimensions of cognitive function.

Methods

A total of 163 patients with schizophrenia participated in the study. We evaluated insight at two time points to understand the patterns of change and examined the association between insight and clinical variables. Additionally, we examined the relationship between the dimensions of cognitive function and insight.

Results

The patients were divided into three groups based on their change in insight over time: stable at a low level of insight (poor insight), stable at a high level of insight (good insight), and changed in insight over time (unstable insight). Those in the poor insight group had lower general intelligence scores than those in the good insight and unstable insight groups. Regarding cognitive function, verbal comprehension was associated with the level of insight at baseline and follow‐up. Regarding psychiatric symptoms, the poor insight group exhibited more severe symptoms than the other two groups, especially regarding positive symptoms.

Conclusions

Our classification of patients based on changes in insight revealed that poor insight patients had impaired cognitive function, especially verbal comprehension, and more severe positive symptoms than good insight or unstable insight patients.
Neilan's divergence‐free finite elements for Stokes equations on tetrahedral grids
Authors: Zhang Shangyou
Published: June 2023

The Neilan ‐ divergence‐free finite element is stable on any tetrahedral grid, where the piece‐wise polynomial velocity is on the grid, on edges and at vertices, and the piece‐wise polynomial pressure is on edges and at vertices. However the method does not work if the exact pressure solution does not vanish on all domain edges, because of the excessive continuity requirements. We extend the Neilan element by removing the extra requirements at domain boundary edges. That is, if a vertex is on a domain boundary edge and if an edge has one endpoint on a domain boundary edge, the velocity is only at the vertex and on the edge, respectively, and the pressure is totally discontinuous there. Under the condition that no tetrahedron in the grid has more than one face‐triangle on the domain boundary, we prove that the extended finite element is stable, and consequently produces solutions of optimal order convergence for all Stokes problems. A numerical example is given, confirming the theory.
Tailored presolve techniques in branch‐and‐bound method for fast mixed‐integer optimal control applications
Authors: Quirynen Rien , Di Cairano Stefano
Published: June 2023

Mixed‐integer model predictive control (MI‐MPC) can be a powerful tool for controlling hybrid systems. In case of a linear‐quadratic objective in combination with linear or piecewise‐linear system dynamics and inequality constraints, MI‐MPC needs to solve a mixed‐integer quadratic program (MIQP) at each sampling time step. This paper presents a collection of exact block‐sparse presolve techniques to efficiently remove decision variables, and to remove or tighten inequality constraints, tailored to mixed‐integer optimal control problems. In addition, we describe a novel approach based on a heuristic presolve algorithm to compute a feasible but possibly suboptimal MIQP solution. We present benchmarking results for a C code implementation of the proposed BB‐ASIPM solver, including a branch‐and‐bound (B&B) method with the proposed tailored presolve techniques and an active‐set based interior point method (ASIPM), compared against multiple state‐of‐the‐art MIQP solvers on a case study of motion planning with obstacle avoidance constraints. Finally, we demonstrate the feasibility and computational performance of the BB‐ASIPM solver in embedded system on a dSPACE Scalexio real‐time rapid prototyping unit for a second case study of stabilization for an underactuated cart‐pole with soft contacts.
Valuation of bimetallic Pd/Ni nanoparticles catalyst for the applications in direct methanol fuel cells
Authors: Awad Somia , AL‐sheqefi F. U. Y. , Al‐Ahmadi Ameenah N. , Ibrahim Mohamed , Abdel‐Hady Esam E.
Published: June 2023

The electrospinning method has been successfully employed to prepare various percentages of less expensive nickel/palladium (NP) nanofiber catalysts as an alternative to platinum in direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC). The chemical structure, morphological characteristics, and electrochemical (EC) properties have been investigated using a variety of analysis techniques. According to the scanning electron microscope (SEM), all prepared samples with different Pd concentrations exhibit good nanofiber form and a distinct nanoparticle look. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) reveals an amorphous carbon nanofiber structure with imbedded crystalline spheres of nickel and palladium. The carbonized polyvinyl alcohol nanofibers (PVANFs) have a steady and even distribution of nickel and palladium with an accurate nickel and palladium content, according to the energy dispersive X‐ray mapping results. The lack of hydroxide or oxide phases in the X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern proves that Ni–Pd nanoparticles are present in the metallic phase. For the electrooxidation of methanol, urea, and an isopropanol‐methanol mixture, the electrocatalytic features of the fabricated samples have been examined. EC results show that methanol has the best electrocatalytic properties. Hence, NP nanofiber catalysts could be a promising candidate to replace platinum in DMFC.
Structural health monitoring of natural fiber‐based hybrid composites
Authors: Saleem M. , Orra Kashfull , Arumugam V.
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this article is to evaluate mechanical behavior, detect early damage, and understand failure mechanisms of natural fiber composites using acoustic emission testing (AE). Natural fiber composites are increasingly used in various applications due to their low cost, renewable and biodegradable nature, and excellent mechanical properties. However, their mechanical behavior and failure mechanisms are complex and must be better understood, and nondestructive testing methods are required to evaluate their performance. The article discusses the AE behavior of banana‐ramie‐epoxy composites in tensile tests for the first time. The composites were fabricated by compression molding with 4‐layer banana‐ramie epoxy at 0° stacking. The AE signals were recorded and analyzed during the test using a piezoelectric high‐frequency sensor to identify the different types of AE events. The results showed that the composites exhibited high levels of AE activity at different stages. AE signals were closely related to the damage mechanisms occurring in the composites, such as fiber/matrix debonding, fiber breakage, and matrix cracking. This research results also suggest that AE can help optimize the design and performance of novel composites in practical applications.
Psychological and behavioral symptoms in patients with melanoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Danielsen Josefine T. , Strøm Louise , Knutzen Sofie M. , Schmidt Henrik , Amidi Ali , Wu Lisa M. , Zachariae Robert
Published: June 2023

Objective

Improved survival rates have made it increasingly important for clinicians to focus on cancer survivorship issues affecting the quality of life of melanoma patients. To provide a comprehensive overview of the disease and treatment‐related issues affecting such patients, we conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of the literature to estimate the prevalence of symptoms of depression, anxiety, fatigue, sleep disturbance, and cognitive problems among melanoma patients, both uveal and cutaneous, before, during and after treatment.

Methods

The review was preregistered with PROSPERO (#CRD42020189847) and reported following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines. A comprehensive search of the literature published up until June 2022 was undertaken using PubMed, PsycInfo, the Cochrane Library, and CINAHL. Two independent reviewers screened 1418 records and quality‐rated included studies. The reported prevalence rates of symptoms were pooled using a random‐effects model.

Results

Sixty‐six studies including a total of 12,400 melanoma patients published between 1992 and 2022 were included. Pooled prevalence rates ranged from 6% to 16% for depression and 7%–30% for anxiety across diagnoses (uveal and cutaneous melanoma) and assessment time points. One third of the patients (35%) reported clinically significant fatigue, 20%–44% had cognitive complaints, while prevalence of sleep disturbance was not reported. Quality assessment indicated that 80% of the studies were of good quality.

Conclusion

A large body of research shows that depression and anxiety symptoms are prevalent in melanoma patients before, during and after treatment. However, research examining other symptoms known to affect quality of life, such as fatigue, sleep disturbances, and cognitive problems, is still needed.
The effect of nose clip on exercise‐induced bronchoconstriction in adolescents
Authors: Spivak Ilia , Gut Guy , Hanna Moneera , Gur Michal , Shallufi George , Ben‐David Yael , Nir Vered , Hakim Fahed , Bentur Lea , Bar‐Yoseph Ronen
Published: June 2023

Background

Oral breathing is considered to increase hyper‐responsiveness of the airways. Data on the need for nose clip (NC) during exercise challenge test (ECT) in children and adolescents is scarce. Ouraim was to evaluate the role of NC during ECT in children and adolescents.

Methods

A prospective, cohort study; children referred for ECT were evaluated on two separate visits, with and without a NC. Demographic, clinical data and measurements of lung functions were recorded. Allergy and asthma control were evaluated by Total Nasal Symptoms Score (TNSS) and Asthma Control Test (ACT) questionnaires.

Results

Sixty children and adolescents (mean age 16.7 ± 1.1 years, 38% Female,) performed ECT with NC and 48 (80%) completed visit 2 (ECT without NC), 8.7 ± 7.9 days after visit 1. Following exercise, 29/48 patients (60.4%) with NC had a decline of ≥12% in forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (positive ECT) compared to only 16/48 (33.3%) positive tests without NC (p = 0.0008). Test result was changed in 14 patients from positive ECT (with NC) to negative ECT (no NC) and in only one patient from negative to positive. The use of NC resulted in greater FEV1 decline (median 16.3% predicted, IQR 6.0−19.1% predicted vs. median 4.5% predicted, IQR 1.6−18.4% predicted, p = 0.0001), and better FEV1 increase after bronchodil at or inhalation compared to ECT without NC. Higher TNSS scores did not predict higher probability to positive ECT.

Conclusions

The use of NC during ECT increases detection rate of exercise induced bronchoconstriction during ECT in the pediatric population. These findings strengthen the recommendation of nasal blockage during ECT in children and adolescents.
Follow‐up bronchoscopy in a child with bronchial dielafoy disease
Authors: Madhusudan Manoj , Chandra Tejaswi , Jingade Srikanta
Published: June 2023

We previously reported an 11‐year‐old girl with Bronchial Dieulafoy disease who presented with an endobronchial lesion. She had an underlying bronchial vascular malformation for which she underwent embolization, and had remained asymptomatic since. On follow‐up, a near‐total resolution of the endobronchial lesion was observed.
Doped Lateral Organic Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Palassery Ithikkal Jaseela , Izawa Seiichiro , Hiramoto Masahiro
Published: June 2023

Doping effects on organic lateral photovoltaic cells with separated carrier‐generating and doped carrier‐transporting layers are investigated. A doping concentration of 100 ppm into the lateral hole and electron transporting layers doubles the photocurrent density by forming a built‐in potential between the layers in the vertical direction of the lateral cell, which accelerates carrier generation. A higher doping concentration induces trap‐assisted recombination at direct C8‐BTBT/PTCDI‐C8 contact points and causes a decrease in photocurrent density.
A Novel Z‐Scheme Heterostructured Bi2S3/Cu‐TCPP Nanocomposite with Synergistically Enhanced Therapeutics against Bacterial Biofilm Infections in Periodontitis
Authors: Kong Qingchao , Qi Manlin , Li Wen , Shi Yujia , Su Jing , Xiao Shimeng , Sun Jiao , Bai Xue , Dong Biao , Wang Lin
Published: June 2023

Porphyrin‐based antibacterial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has found widespread applications in treating periodontitis. However, its clinical use is limited by poor energy absorption, resulting in limited reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. To overcome this challenge, a novel Z‐scheme heterostructured nanocomposite of Bi2S3/Cu‐TCPP is developed. This nanocomposite exhibits highly efficient light absorption and effective electron–hole separation, thanks to the presence of heterostructures. The enhanced photocatalytic properties of the nanocomposite facilitate effective biofilm removal. Theoretical calculations confirm that the interface of the Bi2S3/Cu‐TCPP nanocomposite readily adsorbs oxygen molecules and hydroxyl radicals, thereby improving ROS production rates. Additionally, the photothermal treatment (PTT) using Bi2S3 nanoparticles promotes the release of Cu2+ ions, enhancing the chemodynamic therapy (CDT) effect and facilitating the eradication of dense biofilms. Furthermore, the released Cu2+ ions deplete glutathione in bacterial cells, weakening their antioxidant defense mechanisms. The synergistic effect of aPDT/PTT/CDT demonstrates potent antibacterial activity against periodontal pathogens, particularly in animal models of periodontitis, resulting in significant therapeutic effects, including inflammation alleviation and bone preservation. Therefore, this design of semiconductor‐sensitized energy transfer represents an important advancement in improving aPDT efficacy and the treatment of periodontal inflammation.
Kinetics‐Driven Dual Hydrogen Spillover Effects for Ultrasensitive Hydrogen Sensing
Authors: Cai Haijie , Luo Na , Wang Xiaowu , Guo Mengmeng , Li Xiaojie , Lu Bo , Xue Zhenggang , Xu Jiaqiang
Published: June 2023

Palladium (Pd)‐modified metal oxide semiconductors (MOSs) gas sensors often exhibit unexpected hydrogen (H2) sensing activity through a spillover effect. However, sluggish kinetics over a limited Pd‐MOS surface seriously restrict the sensing process. Here, a hollow Pd‐NiO/SnO2 buffered nanocavity is engineered to kinetically drive the H2 spillover over dual yolk‐shell surface for the ultrasensitive H2 sensing. This unique nanocavity is found and can induce more H2 absorption and markedly improve kinetical H2 ab/desorption rates. Meanwhile, the limited buffer‐room allows the H2 molecules to adequately spillover in the inside‐layer surface and thus realize dual H2 spillover effect. Ex situ XPS, in situ Raman, and density functional theory (DFT) analysis further confirm that the Pd species can effectively combine H2 to form Pd‐H bonds and then dissociate the hydrogen species to NiO/SnO2 surface. The final Pd‐NiO/SnO2 sensors exhibit an ultrasensitive response (0.1–1000 ppm H2) and low actual detection limit (100 ppb) at the operating temperature of 230 °C, which surpass that of most reported H2 sensors.
Exploiting High‐Voltage Stability of Dual‐Ion Aqueous Electrolyte Reinforced by Incorporation of Fiberglass into Zwitterionic Hydrogel Electrolyte
Authors: Zhanadilov Orynbay , Kim Hee Jae , Lai Hou‐Jen , Jiang Jyh‐Chiang , Konarov Aishuak , Mentbayeva Almagul , Bakenov Zhumabay , Sohn Kee‐Sun , Kaghazchi Payam , Myung Seung‐Taek
Published: June 2023

Rechargeable zinc aqueous batteries are key alternatives for replacing toxic, flammable, and expensive lithium‐ion batteries in grid energy storage systems. However, these systems possess critical weaknesses, including the short electrochemical stability window of water and intrinsic fast zinc dendrite growth. Hydrogel electrolytes provide a possible solution, especially cross‐linked zwitterionic polymers that possess strong water retention ability and high ionic conductivity. Herein, an in situ prepared fiberglass‐incorporated dual‐ion zwitterionic hydrogel electrolyte with an ionic conductivity of 24.32 mS cm−1, electrochemical stability window up to 2.56 V, and high thermal stability is presented. By incorporating this hydrogel electrolyte of zinc and lithium triflate salts, a zinc//LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4 pouch cell delivers a reversible capacity of 130 mAh g−1 in the range of 1.0–2.2 V at 0.1C, and the test at 2C provides an initial capacity of 82.4 mAh g−1 with 71.8% capacity retention after 1000 cycles with a coulombic efficiency of 97%. Additionally, the pouch cell is fire resistant and remains safe after cutting and piercing.
Rugged Forest Morphology of Magnetoplasmonic Nanorods that Collect Maximum Light for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Goddati Mahendra , Nguyen Huu‐Quang , Kang Sohyun , Gicha Birhanu Bayissa , Tufa Lemma Teshome , Nwaji Njemuwa , Nguyen My‐Chi Thi , Gwak Juyong , Lee Jaebeom
Published: June 2023

A feasible nanoscale framework of heterogeneous plasmonic materials and proper surface engineering can enhance photoelectrochemical (PEC) water‐splitting performance owing to increased light absorbance, efficient bulk carrier transport, and interfacial charge transfer. This article introduces a new magnetoplasmonic (MagPlas) Ni‐doped Au@FexOy nanorods (NRs) based material as a novel photoanode for PEC water‐splitting. A two stage procedure produces core–shell Ni/Au@FexOy MagPlas NRs. The first‐step is a one‐pot solvothermal synthesis of Au@FexOy. The hollow FexOy nanotubes (NTs) are a hybrid of Fe2O3 and Fe3O4, and the second‐step is a sequential hydrothermal treatment for Ni doping. Then, a transverse magnetic field‐induced assembly is adopted to decorate Ni/Au@FexOy on FTO glass to be an artificially roughened morphologic surface called a rugged forest, allowing more light absorption and active electrochemical sites. Then, to characterize its optical and surface properties, COMSOL Multiphysics simulations are carried out. The core–shell Ni/Au@FexOy MagPlas NRs increase photoanode interface charge transfer to 2.73 mAcm−2 at 1.23 V RHE. This improvement is made possible by the rugged morphology of the NRs, which provide more active sites and oxygen vacancies as the hole transfer medium. The recent finding may provide light on plasmonic photocatalytic hybrids and surface morphology for effective PEC photoanodes.
Construction of Dual‐Channel Water Transport in Mesoporous Silica Low Humidity Sensors to Achieve High Sensitivity
Authors: Ma Zhiyan , Miao Xiaoya , Song Yaping , Yu Yunlong , Wu Ke , Liu Sen , Fei Teng , Zhang Tong
Published: June 2023

In this paper, strong hydrophilic poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) are selectively grafted on different positions (mesoporous channels and outer surface) of mesoporous silica via thiol‐ene click chemical reaction. The purposes of selective grafting are on the one hand, to explore the differences of adsorption and transportation of water molecules in mesoporous channels and on the outer surface, and on the other hand, to combine the two approaches (intra‐pore grafting and external surface grafting) to reasonably design SiO2@PILs low humidity sensing film with synergetic function to achieve high sensitivity. The results of low relativehumidity （RH） sensing test show that the sensing performance of humidity sensor based on mesoporous silica grafted with PILs in the channels is better than that of humidity sensor based on mesoporous silica grafted with PILs on the outer surface. Compared with water molecules transport single channel, the construction of dual‐channel water transport significantly improves the sensitivity of the low humidity sensor, and the response of the sensor is up to 4112% in the range of 7–33% RH. Moreover, the existence of micropores and the formation of dual‐channel water transport affect the adsorption/desorption behaviors of the sensor under different humidity ranges, especially below 11% RH.
The global challenge of cancer governance
Authors: Lunt Neil
Published: June 2023

The global cancer statistics are stark, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, around one in six of all deaths globally. The World Health Organization estimates that 70% of these cancer deaths occur in low‐ and middle‐income countries and cancer will continue to rise as a proportion of deaths in these settings. We may usefully characterize cancer as a “social mess,” a set of interrelated problems and other messes including poverty and social determinants of health. One part of cancer's “messiness” is the governance deficit around cancer burden and regional inequities This policy paper assesses the field of global oncology governance and the interplay of legal instruments, soft law, national developments, donor activities, as well as partnerships, networks, and coalitions. Cancer governance is central to tackling cancer inequalities. Continuing to probe the complexities of cancer governance requires attention to market mechanisms, international agreements, soft power, political willpower, partnerships, collaborations and networks, and patient participation. Governance is inseparable from “paradigmatic” framings and cancer must be seen as a human rights issue.
Introduction
Authors: Matarese Vera , De Baerdemaeker Siska , Mills Boyd Nora
Published: June 2023

This volume is the first edited collection of philosophy of astrophysics. In this introductory chapter, we provide a brief history of the rise of philosophy of astrophysics as a distinct subdiscipline in philosophy of science, brief summaries of the chapters in the volume and their interrelated themes, and a few suggestions for further work.
On the Epistemology of Observational Black Hole Astrophysics
Authors: Doboszewski Juliusz , Lehmkuhl Dennis
Published: June 2023

We discuss three philosophically interesting epistemic peculiarities of black hole astrophysics: (1) issues concerning whether and in what sense black holes do exist; (2) how to best approach multiplicity of available definitions of black holes; (3) short (i.e., accessible within an individual human lifespan) dynamical timescales present in many of the recent, as well as prospective, observations involving black holes. In each case we argue that the prospects for our epistemic situation are optimistic.
Extragalactic Reality Revisited: Astrophysics and Entity Realism
Authors: Allzén Simon
Published: June 2023

Astrophysics is a scientific field with a rich ontology of individual processes and general phenomena that occur in our universe. Despite its central role in our understanding of the physics of the universe, astrophysics has largely been ignored in the debate on scientific realism. As a notable exception, Hacking (Philos Sci 56(4):555–581, 1989) argues that the lack of experiments in astrophysics forces us to be anti-realist with respect to the entities which astrophysics claim inhabit the universe. In this paper, I investigate the viability of astrophysical realism about black holes, given other formulations of entity realism, specifically Cartwright’s (How the Laws of Physics Lie. Oxford University Press, 1983), and Chakravartty’s (A Metaphysics for Scientific Realism: Knowing the Unobervable. Cambridge University Press, 2007) versions of entity realism. I argue that on these accounts of entity realism, you cannot be a realist with respect to black holes, and likewise, if you want to be a realist about black holes, you cannot be an entity realist of these particular strands.
Reflections by a Theoretical Astrophysicist
Authors: Heng Kevin
Published: June 2023

A theoretical astrophysicist discusses the principles and rules-of-thumb underlying the construction of models and simulations from the perspective of an active practitioner, where it is emphasised that they are designed to address specific scientific questions. That models are valid only within a restricted space of parameters and degenerate combinations of parameter values produce the same observable outcome are features, and not bugs, of competent practice that fit naturally within a Bayesian framework of inference. Idealisations within a model or simulation are strongly tied to the questions they are designed to address and the precision at which they are confronted by data. If the practitioner visualises a hierarchy of models of varying sophistication (which is standard practice in astrophysics and climate science), then de-idealisation becomes an irrelevant concept. Opportunities for future collaborations between astrophysicists and philosophers of science are suggested.
Hybrid Enrichment of Theory and Observation in Next-Generation Stellar Population Synthesis
Authors: Patton Lydia
Published: June 2023

Next-generation observational surveys in astronomy provide empirical data with increasingly high resolution and precision. After presenting the basic methods of population synthesis (via Conroy C, Ann Rev Astronom Astrophys 51:393–455, 2013; Maraston C, Mon Not Royal Astronom Soc 362:799–825, 2005), this paper argues for several related conclusions. The increased precision of the new methods requires the development of improved theoretical resources and models to provide the richest interpretation of the new data (as argued by Maraston C, Strömbäck G, Monthly Not Royal Astronom Soc 418:2785–2811, 2011). The measurement of physical variables and parameters in population synthesis is best understood using a model-based account along the lines of (Tal E, The epistemology of measurement: a model-based approach. Dissertation, The University of Toronto, 2012) and (Parker WS, Br J Philos Sci 68:273–304, 2017). Finally, in the case of population synthesis, improved empirical data does not dispense with the need for theoretical reasoning in post-data analysis. In fact, the high-resolution data used in next-generation population synthesis demands ever richer theories and models, a process that results in hybrid enrichment of theoretical and observational methods and results.
Doing More with Less: Dark Matter & Modified Gravity
Authors: Martens Niels C. M. , King Martin
Published: June 2023

Two approaches have emerged to resolve discrepancies between predictions and observations at galactic and cosmological scales: introducing dark matter or modifying the laws of gravity. Practitioners of each approach claim to better satisfy a different explanatory ideal, either unification or simplicity. In this chapter, we take a closer look at the ideals and at the successes of these approaches in achieving them. Not only are these ideals less divisive than assumed, but moreover we argue that the approaches are focusing on different aspects of the same ideal. This realisation opens up the possibility of a more fruitful trading zone between dark matter and modified gravity communities.
Stellar Structure Models Revisited: Evidence and Data in Asteroseismology
Authors: Suárez Mauricio
Published: June 2023

This paper advances further an ongoing project to understand the history of stellar structure modelling and its inferential practice. It does so by taking a harder look at the data: how it is collected, analysed statistically, and represented in HR diagrams and stellar structure models alike. The focus is ultimately on the sorts of strong observational constraints revealed in the last two decades within the new and expanding field of asteroseismology. It is argued that the typical inferential practices in asteroseismology, while richly loaded with modelling assumptions of their own, do not raise any circularity worries that may compromise the quality or value of the data.
Idealizations in Astrophysical Computer Simulations
Authors: Jacquart Melissa , Arcadia Regy-Null R.
Published: June 2023

This chapter examines some of the philosophical literature on idealizations in science and the epistemic challenges idealizations potentially pose for astrophysical methodology, particularly its use of computer simulations. We begin by surveying philosophical literature on idealization connected to (1) kinds of idealizations deployed in science, (2) the aims of idealization in science, and (3) various strategies for de-idealization. Using collisional ring galaxy simulations as a case study, we examine how these three themes play out in the context of astrophysical computer simulations. Ultimately, we argue that deploying de-idealization strategies is central to bolstering epistemic confidence in simulations in astrophysics. We conclude with some remarks on the role of idealization in the context of astrophysical computer simulations more generally.
Local Expert Perceptions of Creeping Environmental Changes and Responses in Maldives
Authors: Stojanov Robert , Kelman Ilan
Published: June 2023

For the last several decades, low-elevation islands have been highlighted as being at the forefront of facing the impact of creeping environmental changes, notably from human-caused climate change. The islands’ low elevation, including in the Indian Ocean, has led to considering migration due to coastal erosion, sea-level rise, acidifying oceans, salinity intrusion, and changes in monsoon patterns and hence rainfall. Maldives is experiencing such creeping environmental changes which are often stated as being key factors affecting Maldivian society, livelihoods, and futures. Evidence from Maldivians, however, is that they perceive future sea-level rise to be a serious challenge at the national level, but rarely accept it as a local difficulty requiring action. Migration from their islands to other countries might be a potential option, especially when combined with other reasons for relocating, but they generally prefer to stay and adjust to all ongoing changes. Within this context, this paper reports field research from August 2013 in the capital Malé and nearby residential islands, using qualitative interviews with fifteen local experts. The results suggest that, besides a set of actually experienced changes, creeping environmental changes are perceived as being one of the important factors affecting Maldivian society and livelihoods. The results and interpretation, including in the context of major changes from the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, identify some dissonance in understandings of possible impacts and resultant actions, in terms of recognising what might happen to the country yet not fully considering the action-related implications.
Health Beyond Borders: Migration and Precarity in South Asia
Authors: Kapilashrami Anuj , John Ekatha Ann
Published: June 2023

Migration patterns in South Asia are defined by temporary migration of low-wage labourers within and across national borders. The conditions in which migrants move, live and work expose them to multiple health risks that cause chronic ailments, mental health problems, and increase their susceptibility to airborne and waterborne diseases. Despite this, public policies and mainstream discourses in the region overlook migrants’ health needs or tend to pathologize them as carriers of infectious diseases. In this chapter, we take stock of the regional evidence on migrants’ health, presenting an overview of their health and the underlying social and structural determinants. In reviewing this evidence, we identify the high-risk and disempowering conditions in which they work, the transient nature of their lives and livelihoods, and the intersecting inequalities they face based on distinct aspects of their social location. Together, these conditions, identities and social locations produce distinct yet inter-related and interlocking oppressive states of insecurity, disempowerment, dispossession, exclusion and disposability, locking migrants in a continuing cycle of poverty and ill-health.