bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Poor sleep quality and stress differentially predict delay discounting for food, but not money, in college students
Authors: Law Olivia , Rasmussen Erin B.
Published: September 2023

Early college is a time when eating habits change and subsequent weight gain may occur. Moreover, college students report higher stress levels and poorer sleep quality while enrolled in courses. This study investigated the extent to which stress and sleep quality in college students may be related to delay discounting (DD) for food—a psychological process in which immediate outcomes are preferred over larger, more delayed outcomes. College students (N = 297) completed the Food Choice Questionnaire (FCQ) and the Monetary Choice Questionnaire (MCQ)—measures of food and monetary DD, respectively. The Perceived Stress Scale (PSS), the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), and measures of subjective hunger, substance use, and demographic variables were also administered. Perceived stress was related to poor sleep quality, alcohol use, substance use, and vaping. Analyses revealed that, when controlling for subjective hunger, perceived stress and poor sleep quality contributed unique variance to food DD, though in opposing directions. Perceived stress uniquely predicted preferences for immediate food, a phenomenon consistent with stress‐induced urgent eating. Poor sleep quality uniquely predicted preferences for larger amounts of delayed food, a pattern consistent with eating later in the day. Stress and sleep quality, when controlling for substance use variables, were unrelated to monetary discounting. Stress and poor sleep quality, then, predict independent and opposing discounting processes in college students that are food‐specific, as opposed to more general cross‐commodity processes.
Vitomics: A novel paradigm for examining the role of vitamins in human biology
Authors: Lucock Mark D.
Published: September 2023

The conventional view of vitamins reflects a diverse group of small molecules that facilitate critical aspects of metabolism and prevent potentially fatal deficiency syndromes. However, vitamins also contribute to the shaping and maintenance of the human phenome over lifecycle and evolutionary timescales, enabling a degree of phenotypic plasticity that operates to allow adaptive responses that are appropriate to key periods of sensitivity (i.e., epigenetic response during prenatal development within the lifecycle or as an evolved response to environmental challenge over a great many lifecycles). Individually, vitamins are important, but their effect is often based on nutrient‐nutrient (vitamin‐vitamin), nutrient‐gene (vitamin‐gene), and gene‐gene interactions, and the environmental influence of shifting geophysical cycles, as well as evolving cultural practices. These ideas will be explored within what I refer to as the “adaptive vitome (vitomics)” paradigm.
Validated HPLC‐UV method for amphotericin B quantification in a critical patient receiving AmBisome and treated with extracorporeal replacement therapies
Authors: Ezquer‐Garin Carlos , Aguilar Gerardo , Ferriols‐Lisart Rafael , Alos‐Almiñana Manuel
Published: September 2023

Amphotericin B (AMB) is a polyene macrolide antifungal agent used for treating invasive fungal infections. Liposomal AMB is a lipid dosage form, available as AmBisome, which reduces the toxicity of the drug. A simple HPLC‐UV method was developed for the determination of AMB in plasma to study its pharmacokinetic profile in a critical patient receiving AmBisome and treated with extracorporeal replacement therapies. Sample preparation was performed using plasma deproteinization and drug release from liposome by the addition of acetonitrile (ACN)/zinc sulfate and ultrasonication. Chromatographic separation was performed using a C18 column and a mobile phase consisting of phosphate buffer (pH 3.0)/ACN (65/35, v/v). The UV detector was set at 407 nm. The total run time analysis was 23 min. The method was validated according to the standard guidelines and applied to study the pharmacokinetics of AMB in a critical patient. The total run time analysis obtained was shorter than that of the previously reported methods, being useful for therapeutic drug monitoring or pharmacokinetic profile research.
Advances in sensor developments for cell culture monitoring
Authors: Kim Ka Ram , Yeo Woon‐Hong
Published: September 2023

Cell culture encompasses procedures for extracting cells from their natural tissue and cultivating them under controlled artificial conditions. During this process, various factors, including cell physiological/morphological properties, culture environments, metabolites, and contaminants, have to be precisely controlled and monitored for the survival of cells and the pursuit of the desired properties of the cells. This review summarizes recent advances in sensor technologies and manufacturing strategies for various cell culture platforms using traditional plastics, microfluidic chips, and scalable bioreactors. We share the details of newly developed biological sensors, chemical sensors, optical sensors, electronic chip technologies, and material integration methods. The precise control of parameters based on the feedback by these sensors and electronics enhances cell culture quality and throughput.
Evaluation of the relationship between idiopathic restless legs syndrome and serum hepcidin levels
Authors: Alaçam Köksal Semra , Boncuk Ulaş Sena , Acar Bilgehan Atılgan , Acar Türkan , Güzey Aras Yeşim , Köroğlu Mehmet
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The relationship between restless legs syndrome (RLS) and iron deficiency is a well‐known topic. However, the etiology of the disease has not been determined. As the central iron deficiency is the most critical biological abnormality for RLS, we planned a study examining the relationship between RLS and hepcidin, which is the only regulatory hormone of iron metabolism known so far.

Methods

International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group diagnostic criteria (2014) were taken as a basis. A total of 40 RLS patients and 40 healthy controls were included in the study. To avoid the potential variables that might cause secondary RLS, all the participants were asked to provide hemogram, ferritin, iron, thyroid function tests, and sedimentation analysis. The hepcidin levels were measured with a Human Hepcidin (Hepc 25) ELISA kit (MyBioSource).

Results

The statistically significant results of our analysis show that the red blood cell count, the neutrophil count, the percentage of lymphocytes and neutrophils, and, more distinctively, hepcidin levels were higher in RLS patients in comparison with the control group.

Conclusion

In this study, no differences were found in iron and ferritin values. High levels of hepcidin, the main regulator of iron metabolism, in those with primary RLS support the possibility that hepcidin may play a role in the pathogenesis of RLS. We think that larger studies on this subject can give clearer ideas.
GestureTeach: A gesture guided online teaching interactive model
Authors: Liu Hongjun , Yao Chao , Zhang Yalan , Ban Xiaojuan
Published: September 2023

Online education has become more popular and effective due to the availability of high‐speed internet and technological innovations, which allow people from different locations to access educational resources and opportunities. However, online classes often face challenges such as limited interactivity and display options, which can affect the quality and effectiveness of the online learning experience. In this article, we propose GestureTeach, a new pedagogical paradigm that enables free handwriting interaction and animation generation for online teaching. GestureTeach uses gestures as a natural and intuitive way of interaction, which enhances the teacher's intention expression and the student's engagement. GestureTeach also generates animations from handwritten sketches, which improves the display effects of the interaction and the student's knowledge comprehension. We conducted a two‐stage study with 15 teachers and 90 students to evaluate the effectiveness of GestureTeach in facilitating classroom interaction. The results show that GestureTeach is preferred by both teachers and students over traditional online teaching methods and has the potential to transform the online teaching landscape by providing a seamless and interactive experience.
Consumer response journey following a product‐harm crisis: The role of online brand communities
Authors: Casey Julia , Huang Yimin (Stephanie) , Chen Shijiao (Joseph)
Published: September 2023

Online brand communities can serve as a crucial information source about a product‐harm crisis and allow consumers to seek information from others and share their opinions in a social dynamic environment. The role of an online brand community in shaping consumer responses following such a crisis nevertheless remains under‐researched. Drawing from attribution theory, this research explores the dynamic and holistic consumer journey in online brand communities following a product‐harm crisis, specifically examining consumer attribution as the key mechanism and consumers' decision to forgive the brand as the outcome response. This research includes two studies. First, a netnographic pilot study is conducted to provide real‐world evidence for the research phenomenon and to explore consumer responses within the natural setting of an online brand community. Second, the main study uses an interpretivist epistemological approach to track the unfolding process and capture the evolution of consumer attribution and forgiveness. The results show the social nature of attribution as members engage with others in online brand communities, seeking and verifying information, sensemaking and forming opinions. The findings make theoretical contributions to the literature on attribution and product‐harm crisis. The findings from the research also help brands make informed decisions on crisis management strategies.
Improving the Enantioselectivity of CHMOBrevi1 for Asymmetric Synthesis of Podophyllotoxin Precursor
Authors: Huang Shou‐Cheng , Zhang Yi‐Ke , Geng Qiang , Huang Qi‐Kang , Xu Jian‐He , Chen Yi‐Feng , Yu Hui‐Lei
Published: September 2023

(R)‐β‐piperonyl‐γ‐butyrolactones are key building blocks for the synthesis of podophyllotoxin, which have demonstrated remarkable potential in cancer treatment. Baeyer‐Villiger monooxygenases (BVMOs)‐mediated asymmetric oxidation is a green approach to produce chiral lactones. While several BVMOs were able to oxidize the corresponding cyclobutanone, most BVMOs gave the (S) enantiomer while Cyclohexanone monooxygenase (CHMO) from Brevibacterium sp. HCU1 gave (R) enantiomer, but with a low enantioselectivity (75 % ee). In this study, we use a strategy called “focused rational iterative site‐specific mutagenesis” (FRISM) at residues ranging from 6 Å from substrate. The mutations by using a restricted set of rationally chosen amino acids allow the formation of a small mutant library. By generating and screening less than 60 variants, we achieved a high ee of 96.8 %. Coupled with the cofactor regeneration system, 9.3 mM substrate was converted completely in a 100‐mL scale reaction. Therefore, our work reveals a promising synthetic method for (R)‐β‐piperonyl‐γ‐butyrolactone with the highest enantioselectivity, and provides a new opportunity for the chem‐enzymatic synthesis of podophyllotoxin.
A novel combination of mutations leading to congenital ichthyosis and ichthyosis vulgaris
Authors: Shearer Zackary , White Gwenevere , Steed John Zachary , Brown Carla , Venable Tara , Baber Megan
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Coexistence of TGM1 and FLG mutations in a newborn with congenital ichthyosis is not well described in the literature. Early genetic testing and counseling are crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management. Further exploration of associated problems, including hearing loss and developmental delay, is warranted in patients with these mutations.
Are artificial intelligence large language models a reliable tool for difficult differential diagnosis? An a posteriori analysis of a peculiar case of necrotizing otitis externa
Authors: Pugliese Giorgia , Maccari Alberto , Felisati Elena , Felisati Giovanni , Giudici Leonardo , Rapolla Chiara , Pisani Antonia , Saibene Alberto Maria
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Large language models have made artificial intelligence readily available to the general public and potentially have a role in healthcare; however, their use in difficult differential diagnosis is still limited, as demonstrated by a case of necrotizing otitis externa.

This case report presents a peculiar case of necrotizing otitis externa (NOE) with skull base involvement which proved diagnostically challenging. The initial patient presentation and the imaging performed on the 78‐year‐old patient suggested a neoplastic rhinopharyngeal lesion and only after several unsuccessful biopsies the patient was transferred to our unit. Upon re‐evaluation of the clinical picture, a clinical hypothesis of NOE with skull base erosion was made and confirmed by identifying Pseudomonas aeruginosa in biopsy specimens of skull base bone and external auditory canal skin. Upon diagnosis confirmation, the patient was treated with culture‐oriented long‐term antibiotics with complete resolution of the disease. Given the complex clinical presentation, we chose to submit a posteriori this NOE case to two large language models (LLM) to test their ability to handle difficult differential diagnoses. LLMs are easily approachable artificial intelligence tools that enable human‐like interaction with the user relying upon large information databases for analyzing queries. The LLMs of choice were ChatGPT‐3 and ChatGPT‐4 and they were requested to analyze the case being provided with only objective clinical and imaging data.
Twists and turns: A case report of cecal volvulus
Authors: Sapkota Aashish , Batajoo Aashna , Lamichhane Samit , Shrestha Alok , Bhatt Nidhi
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

We present a case of a 22‐year‐old male presenting in the emergency room with colicky abdominal pain, vomiting, and abdominal distension for which an early computed tomography scan was done and diagnosed as cecal volvulus. Following diagnosis case was managed promptly by laparotomy with right hemicolectomy and primary anastomosis.
Influence of Particles on the Roller Discharge of Thin‐Film Filtration without Gas Throughput
Authors: Bächle Volker , Gleiß Marco , Nirschl Hermann
Published: September 2023

If fine and compressible particle systems need to be separated, the ground layer compaction caused by the compacting of the filter cake leads to high flow resistances. Thin‐film filtration is a suitable method to avoid the limiting effect of the filter cakes. Gas‐impermeable filter membranes prevent shrinkage cracking, which can occur during demoisturing of the filter cakes. Titanium dioxide and baker's yeast are used as model particle systems, which are present in different concentrations and are filtered with track‐etched membranes in different particle‐to‐pore size ratios. The parameters determined during the investigation are the residual moisture, the specific solid mass, and the completeness of the discharge. Filtration causes progressive blocking of the membrane pores, resulting in filter medium resistances that are increased by up to a factor of 175. Metabolism of yeast can cause bubbles to accumulate on the membrane and decreasing the free filter area. Without regeneration the specific solid mass flow rate is reduced by 61 % for titanium dioxide and by 13 % for yeast under ideal conditions of this experimental study.
Ruthenium and Iron Co‐doped Molybdenum Carbide as a Stable Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalyst in Harsh Electrolyte
Authors: Fu Xiao Peng , Sun Kai Zhi , Li Xiaoxia , Guan Xu Hao , Mao Fang Xin , Yang Hua Gui , Liu Peng Fei
Published: September 2023

Electrocatalytic water splitting is one of the most commercially valuable pathways of hydrogen production especially combined with renewable electricity; however, efficient and durable electrocatalysts are urgently needed to reduce electric energy consumption. Here, we reported a Ru and Fe co‐doped Mo2C on nitrogen doped carbon via a controllable two‐step method, which can be used for efficient and enduring hydrogen evolution reaction. At 10, 100 and 200 mA cm−2 in acidic electrolyte, the resultant Ru‐Fe/Mo2C@NC delivered low overpotentials of 31, 78 and 103 mV, respectively, which are comparable to that of the commercial Pt/C (20 wt %). At an applied current density of 100 mA cm−2, stable hydrogen production was conducted for 120 h without obvious degradation. In alkaline media, Ru‐Fe/Mo2C@NC can also deliver a current density of 100 mA cm−2 for more than 100 h. Furthermore, the Ru‐Fe/Mo2C@NC electrocatalyst was used as cathode in an anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer under industrial environments for robust hydrogen production. The characterization and electrochemical results prove the synergism effects between Ru, Fe dopants and Mo2C for promoting hydrogen evolution activity. This work would pave a new avenue to fabricate low‐cost, high‐performance hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts for industrial water electrolyzers.
Modellierung und Simulation der templatgestützten Synthese von porösen Kohlenstoffgerüsten mittels COMSOL Multiphysics
Authors: Plattfaut Julia , Suckow Mathias , Klepel Olaf , Erlitz Marcel , Arellano-Garcia Harvey
Published: September 2023

Mithilfe einer templatgestützten Synthese wurden poröse Kohlenstoffgerüste unter Verwendung von Silicagel als Templat hergestellt. Die chemische Gasphaseninfiltration (CVI) wurde hierbei als Synthese verwendet. Unter Variation verschiedener Reaktionsparameter zur Optimierung der Kohlenstoffabscheidung wurde dieser Prozess mathematisch modelliert and simuliert. Dabei konnten die experimentellen Ergebnisse gut mit den Modellen nachgebildet werden. Die zusätzliche Beschreibung der laminaren Strömung verbessert die Übereinstimmung deutlich.
Alkalische Aktivierung und Reaktivierung von Sekundärrohstoffen der Bau‐ und Abbruchindustrie
Authors: Kugler Felix , Krcmar Wolfgang , Teipel Ulrich
Published: September 2023

Die vorliegende Arbeit beschäftigt sich mit der Herstellung von Geopolymeren aus Ziegelmehl und Mischbauschutt mithilfe einer alkalischen Aktivator‐Lösung. Die Studie hat zum Ziel, zu untersuchen, ob sich diese Geopolymere mehrfach reaktivieren lassen, ohne neues Ausgangsmaterial hinzufügen zu müssen, und wie sich die Anzahl der Reaktivierungen auf die Struktur und die werkstofftechnischen Eigenschaften auswirkt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Geopolymere aus einer Mischung aus Ziegelmehl und Mischbauschutt hergestellt werden können und sich bis zu drei Mal aufmahlen und reaktivieren lassen.
Thin‐Film Composite Membranes for Organic Solvent Nanofiltration
Authors: Du Meiling , Chen Li , Yang Hao , Zeng Xinjuan , Tan Yunfei , Dong Lichun , Zhou Cailong
Published: September 2023

Organic solvent nanofiltration (OSN) is an emerging separation technology. Significant efforts have been dedicated to designing and fabricating thin film composite (TFC) membranes for OSN in recent years. The development and utilization of TFC membranes in OSN are paramount in ensuring the permeability of organic solvent and rejection of solute. Additionally, researchers have delved into optimizing preprocessing and post‐treatment procedures during preparation. The preparation process has emerged as another avenue for improving the separation performance of TFC membranes. Simultaneously, various supports have been explored to enhance the TFC membranes′ performance, including polymer substrates and inorganic substrates, as well as the interlayers between the substrate and the TFC membrane, each with unique advantages and disadvantages, and the choices of support depend on the specific requirements of the intended application. The limitations of conventional membranes could be overcome and thus achieve superior performance via an improved preparation strategy of the TFC membranes. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the preparation process for TFC membranes, including a detailed discussion of the preparation methods, the optimizing processes, and the substrates.
Aza‐Michael Addition in Explicit Solvent: A Relative Energy Gradient–Interacting Quantum Atoms Study
Authors: Cador Aël , Tognetti Vincent , Joubert Laurent , Popelier Paul L. A.
Published: September 2023

Aza‐Michael additions are key reactions in organic synthesis. We investigate, from a theoretical and computational point of view, several examples ranging from weak to strong electrophiles in dimethylsulfoxide treated as explicit solvent. We use the REG‐IQA method, which is a quantum topological energy decomposition (Interacting Quantum Atoms, IQA) coupled to a chemical‐interpretation calculator (Relative Energy Gradient, REG). We focus on the rate‐limiting addition step in order to unravel the different events taking place in this step, and understand the influence of solvent on the reaction, with an eye on predicting the Mayr electrophilicity. For the first time, a link is established between an REG‐IQA analysis and experimental values.
Facile Fabrication of Dual‐Activatable Gastrointestinal‐Based Nanocarriers for Safe Delivery and Controlled Release of Methotrexate
Authors: Chen Shuai , Nie Zheng‐Quan , Zhu Fang‐Dao , Yang Cui‐Ting , Yang Jian‐Mei , He Jun‐Nan , Liu Xiao‐Qing , Zhang Jin , Zhao Yan
Published: September 2023

Colon cancer is emerging as one of the most common cancers worldwide, ranking in the top three in morbidity and mortality. Oral methotrexate (MTX) has been employed as a first‐line treatment for various cancers, such as colon, breast, and lung cancer. However, the complexity and particularity of the gastrointestinal microenvironment and the limitations of MTX itself, including severe adverse effects and instability, are the main obstacles to the safe delivery of MTX to colon tumor sites. Herein, an innovative oral administrated anticancer therapeutic MTX@Am7CD/SDS NPs equipped with both pH and temperature sensitivity, which could effectively prevent MTX@Am7CD/SDS NPs from being degraded in the acidic environment mimicking the stomach and small intestine, thus harboring the potential to accumulate at the site of colon lesions and further release intestinal drug under mild conditions. In cellular assays, compared with free MTX, MTX@Am7CD/SDS NPs showed a favorable tumor inhibition effect on three tumor cell lines, as well as excellent cell uptake and apoptosis‐inducing effect on SW480 cells. Therefore, this work provides a feasible solution for the safe use of MTX in the treatment of colon cancer and even other intestinal diseases.
A Calcination‐Free Sol‐Gel Method to Prepare TiO2‐Based Hybrid Semiconductors for Enhanced Visible Light‐Driven Hydrogen Production
Authors: Yang Kang , Wei Dan , Jia Chunman , Li Jianwei
Published: September 2023

Invited for this month's cover are the collaborating groups of Dr. Jianwei Li at the University of Turku and Prof. Chunman Jia, Kang Yang and Dan Wei at Hainan University. The cover image compares the structure of calcined (left) and non‐calcined (right) rutile TiO2 doped with a molecule NA. The calcination process enlarges the pores in TiO2, reducing its surface area and hydrogen production efficiency under visible light. The “sad face” symbolizes the damaged pore structure. Conversely, doping TiO2 with NA without high‐temperature calcination forms a covalent bond, resulting in smaller pores, larger surface area, and improved hydrogen production efficiency. The “smiley face” represents the structurally intact TiO2 hybrid material. More information can be found in the Research Article by Jianwei Li, Chunman Jia, and co‐workers.
Riding the waves or fighting the tides? Female leaders' CSR engagement
Authors: Deng Xin , Rao Kathyayini Kathy , Qian Wei
Published: September 2023

This study examines how organizational factors interact with individual factors in influencing female leaders' intentions to engage in corporate social responsibility (CSR) through the lens of planned behavior. Through in‐depth interviews with 20 female corporate leaders from Australia and China, seven themes emerged as factors shaping their CSR engagement. We examined those factors using the theory of planned behavior (TBP) conceptual framework, and found that organizational factors, especially corporate culture and peer influence, dominated female leaders' intentions to engage in CSR. Power interacts with culture and affects female leaders in two countries in different manners: in China, the distance to top corporate power determines female leaders' intentions toward and the way they engage in CSR, while lack of critical mass is often cited by their Australian counterparts as the main factor deterring their CSR engagement. This study demonstrates how organizational factors shape leaders' CSR decisions, reveals the nuances behind the gender–CSR link, and posits for different remedies to unleash the power of female leaders in different cultures.
Preservation of genetic diversity in a highly fragmented population of the gray‐sided vole Myodes rufocanus in an intensive farming region
Authors: Ishibashi Yasuyuki
Published: September 2023

Individual dispersal plays an important role in preserving genetic diversity in density‐fluctuating populations of arvicoline rodents. When habitats are fragmented and dispersal between habitats is severely constrained, genetic diversity can be lost. Here, I investigated whether genetic diversity in the gray‐sided vole Myodes rufocanus was preserved in an intensive farming region in Japan, where voles inhabited isolated windbreak forests along the borders of plowed lands. Genetic structure was examined in 673 vole samples (330 in spring and 343 in fall) collected at 34 windbreak forests located 0.35–20 km apart. A part of the control region (425 bp) of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was sequenced in 673 voles, yielding 76 haplotypes. Genetic differentiation of maternally inherited mtDNA among trapping sites was markedly lower in males than in females in both seasons, indicating strong male‐biased dispersal. Genotypes at six microsatellite DNA loci were determined in 494 voles (245 in spring and 249 in fall) from 18 trapping sites, and loci harbored 16–24 alleles. The mean number of alleles per locus (allelic diversity) at trapping sites was positively correlated with the number of examined individuals (density) in both seasons, and the relationship was very similar to that of a previous study performed in much less fragmented populations. The genetic differentiation of microsatellite DNA among trapping sites decreased considerably from spring to fall. In a STRUCTURE analysis with a most probable cluster number of two, closer trapping sites showed more similar mean values of cluster admixture proportions. The present findings indicate that gene flow among isolated windbreak forests, which occurred mainly by dispersal of males, was not restrained in this intensive farming region. Furthermore, the results suggest that genetic diversity in the study population was preserved as well as in less fragmented populations.
A Strategy for Improving the Efficiency of Boronic Acid Catalysis in the Synthesis of Amides
Authors: Almetwali Fatima , Rouden Jacques , Blanchet Jérôme
Published: September 2023

This study outlines the development of novel boronic acids as catalysts for the direct synthesis of amides from carboxylic acids and amines. The Lewis acidity of the boronic acids was estimated by means of computational techniques, and the observed increase in catalytic activity was corroborated by kinetic data derived from a model reaction. Our investigations led to the discovery of a set of ortho‐(sulfonyloxy)benzeneboronic acids that compared favorably with the established state‐of‐the‐art. These newly developed catalysts demonstrated efficacy in the coupling of aliphatic, aromatic, and heteroaromatic acids, as well as primary and secondary amines.
Sulfur‐Centered Radicals in Visible Light Isocyanide Photochemistry
Authors: Russo Camilla , Brunelli Francesca , Tron Gian Cesare , Giustiniano Mariateresa
Published: September 2023

Sulfur‐centered radicals have a key role in a plethora of synthetic organic transformations, whose scope has been further expanded thanks to the possibility to generate such species under visible light photocatalytic conditions. This review focuses on those transformations involving isocyanides and sulfur‐centered radicals with the aim to highlight the chemical space accessible, both in terms of complexity and diversity, and the mechanistic rational underpinning the current and future development of such chemical methodologies.
Modulating contact properties by molecular layers in organic thin‐film transistors
Authors: Sun Li , Li Yating , Xie Jiacheng , Zhou Liqi , Wang Peng , Xu Jian‐Bin , Shi Yi , Wang Xinran , He Daowei
Published: September 2023

Advanced organic devices and circuits demand both ultrahigh charge carrier mobilities and ultralow‐resistance contacts. However, due to a larger access resistance in staggered organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs), the achievement of ultralow contact resistance () is still a challenge. The modulation of contact resistance by molecular layers near the interface has been rarely reported. Here, we demonstrate that few‐layer organic single crystals are grown on hafnium oxide (HfO2) by solution‐shearing epitaxy. We utilize these organic crystals to fabricate bottom‐gate staggered OTFTs with different contact processes. The results show that the contact properties of OTFTs are obviously modulated by crystal layers. The tri‐layer (3L) evaporated‐Au C10‐DNTT OTFTs exhibit optimal electrical performance, including ultralow of 5.6 Ω ∙ cm, recorded transfer length of 0.4 μm, field‐effect mobility over 14 , threshold voltage lower than 0.3 V, and long‐term air stability over 8 months. The main cause is that the metal atoms can penetrate into the charge transport layer, with damage‐free, in 3L evaporated‐Au OTFTs; nevertheless, it cannot be realized in other cases. Due to layer stacking of conjugated molecules and polymers, our strategy can efficiently modulate the contact resistance to aid the development of high‐performance organic devices and circuits.
Production and characterization of composite activated carbon from potato peel waste for cyanide removal from aqueous solution
Authors: Salman Sami D. , Rashid Israa M.
Published: September 2023

This research presents a response surface methodology (RSM) with I‐optimal method of DESIGN EXPERT (version 13 Stat‐Ease) for optimization and analysis of the adsorption process of the cyanide from aqueous solution by activated carbon (AC) and composite activated carbon (CuO/AC) produced by pyro carbonic acid microwave using potato peel waste as raw material. Pyrophosphate 60% (wt) was used for impregnation with an impregnation ratio 3:1, impregnation time of 4 h at 25°C, radiant power of 700 W, and activation time of 20 min. Batch experiments were conducted to determine the removal efficiency of cyanide from aqueous solution to evaluate the influences of various experimental parameters such as contact time, cyanide concentration, initial pH, and dosage of adsorbent on cyanide removal efficiency. The statistical analysis showed that the quadratic model was significant. The model very low probability value (p‐value < 0.0001) for activated carbon and composite activated carbon, and the analysis of variance showed a high coefficient of specification values of adjusted R2 (model accuracy with observation) and predicted R2 (model accuracy without observation). The optimum conditions suggested by the model for the process variable were 160 min, pH = 10, 10 mg/L, 0.1 g/50 mL, for time, pH, concentration, activated carbon, and composite activated carbon dose, respectively. The maximum removal efficiency at these conditions was 98.2% for AC and 99.35% for CuO/AC. The equilibrium adsorption data obtained were analyzed by Langmuir and Freundlich isotherm models and results showed that it was better described by the Freundlich model. Likewise, the data of adsorption kinetic was analyzed using two models: pseudo‐first‐order and pseudo‐second‐order. The results showed that adsorption kinetics was well performed by the pseudo‐second‐order model.
Carbon Dioxide Removal Estimation Method to Remove Cumulative Anthropogenic CO2 Emissions Distribution to Natural Sinks
Authors: Fiume Shannon
Published: September 2023

We provide a method to estimate how to determine the amount of carbon to
remove to affect the cumulative emitted anthropogenic carbon dioxide for
Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) targets when climate modeling is
unavailable. Additionally, comparing the growth in anthropogenic carbon
dioxide emissions to the late-Holocene atmospheric carbon dioxide
concentration for historical context and present hypothetical emissions
declines for climate restoration. We explore the recent historical
context of cumulative anthropogenic carbon dioxide emissions and how it
has induced increases to each of the natural sinks: the oceans,
atmosphere, and land. The magnitude of cumulative emissions is obscured
when only considering yearly emissions change. A possible baseline
CO concentration of 280.9 ± 0.9 ppm for pre-human
change stretching from 600 BCE to 1750 CE was found and could be
explored separately. We show multiple speculative emission declines to
zero cumulative CO emissions to reach complete climate
restoration. For groups seeking climate restoration, which completes in
less than half a human lifespan, a pair of emission declines are
presented, which complete in twenty years. The declines bound a
possibility horizon of complete climate restoration ending with 2100
targets. There is a tradeoff between how fast the climate can be
restored compared to how long humans can continue to emit carbon dioxide
from the use of fossil fuels and land use change. We conclude with
hypothesized climate reversibility through hypothesized emissions
declines.
Interval time series forecasting: A systematic literature review
Authors: Wang Piao , Gurmani Shahid Hussain , Tao Zhifu , Liu Jinpei , Chen Huayou
Published: September 2023

Interval time series forecasting can be used for forecasting special symbolic data comprising lower and upper bounds and plays an important role in handling the complexity, instability, and uncertainty of observed objects. The purpose of this research is to identify the most widely used definition of interval time series; classify existing research into mature research, current research focus, and research gaps within the defined framework; and recommend future directions for interval forecasting research. To achieve this goal, we have conducted a systematic literature review, comprising search strategy planning, screening mechanism determination, document analysis, and report generation. During the search strategy planning stage, eight literature search libraries are selected to obtain the most extensive studies (total of 525 targets). In the screening‐mechanism determination stage, through the inclusion and exclusion mechanism, the literature that is repetitive, of low‐relevance, and from other fields are discarded, and 125 studies are finally selected. In the document analysis stage, tag‐based methods and classification grids are selected to analyze the shortlisted studies. The results show that there are still numerous research gaps in interval time series forecasting, such as the establishment of hybrid models, application of multisource information, development and application of evaluation techniques, and expansion of application scenarios. In the report‐generation stage, the problems that have been solved and encountered in interval forecasting are summarized, and future research directions are proposed. Finally, the most significant contribution of this research is to provide an overview of interval time series forecasting for easy reference by researchers and to facilitate further research.
Phellinus merrillii extracts induce apoptosis of vascular smooth muscle cells via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways
Authors: Chou Pei‐Yu , Lu Ya‐Ting , Sheu Ming‐Jyh
Published: September 2023

Restenosis frequently occurs after balloon angioplasty. Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI)‐induced artery damage is a significant part of triggering restenosis of the vascular smooth muscles (VSMC). This study aimed to study how ethanol extract of Phellinus merrillii (EPM) affected balloon injury‐induced overgrowth of VSMC, indicating neointima formation. Firstly, our results demonstrated that EPM notably decreased VSMC viability. A fragmentation assay and Annexin V/Propidium Iodide apoptosis assay showed that higher doses of EPM significantly induced the apoptosis of VSMC after 24 h of exposure. Total protein extracted from VSMC treated with EPM in various time and concentration periods was then conducted in Western blotting analysis. Our data demonstrated that EPM substantially elevated the p53, p21, Fas, Bax, p‐p38, and active caspase‐3 protein expressions. The results indicated that EPM induces VSMC apoptosis via intrinsic and extrinsic pathways. Also, our results demonstrated that EPM effectively attenuated the balloon injury‐induced neointima formation. In conclusion, the information offers a mechanism of EPM in inducing the VSMC apoptosis, thus as a potential interference for restenosis.
Analysing of palaeoenvironment and organic matter enrichment: A case study from the Triassic Yanchang Formation in the southern Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Yang Renchao , Li Yang , He Faqi , Wu Xuepeng
Published: September 2023

The organic‐rich shale of the seventh Oil Member (Chang 7 Member for short) of the Middle‐Late Triassic Yanchang Formation is extensively distributed in the southern margin of the Ordos Basin. Understanding the palaeoenvironmental conditions during the sedimentary period of the Chang 7 Member is crucial to exploring the main factors that control the enrichment of organic matter in high‐quality source rocks. In this study, lithofacies analysis was conducted, and samples were collected from the N36 well located in the southern part of the Ordos Basin. Subsequently, element geochemical analysis was performed to reconstruct the palaeoenvironment, and total organic carbon (TOC) tests were conducted to analyse the characteristics of organic matter enrichment. The findings indicate that the sedimentary period of the Chang 7 Member was characterized by a relatively warm and humid palaeo‐climate and a brackish water environment with oxygen‐poor or sub‐oxygen‐rich conditions, and a gradual decrease in palaeo‐water depth. The parent rock types were mainly felsic igneous rock and intermediate igneous rock, which provide limited nutritional elements for primary producers. The enrichment of organic matter in the Chang 7 Member is influenced by several factors, mainly including palaeo‐salinity, palaeo‐water depth, palaeo‐redox conditions, terrestrial inputs, and palaeo‐climate. The warm and humid palaeo‐climate, higher palaeo‐productivity, relatively higher palaeo‐salinity, lower terrigenous input, deeper palaeo‐water depth, and better preservation conditions are conducive to the development of high‐quality source rock in the Chang 7 Member.
Alpha and theta band activity share information relevant to proactive and reactive control during conflict‐modulated response inhibition
Authors: Pscherer Charlotte , Wendiggensen Paul , Mückschel Moritz , Bluschke Annet , Beste Christian
Published: September 2023

Response inhibition is an important instance of cognitive control and can be complicated by perceptual conflict. The neurophysiological mechanisms underlying these processes are still not understood. Especially the relationship between neural processes directly preceding cognitive control (proactive control) and processes underlying cognitive control (reactive control) has not been examined although there should be close links. In the current study, we investigate these aspects in a sample of N = 50 healthy adults. Time‐frequency and beamforming approaches were applied to analyze the interrelation of brain states before (pre‐trial) and during (within‐trial) cognitive control. The behavioral data replicate a perceptual conflict‐dependent modulation of response inhibition. During the pre‐trial period, insular, inferior frontal, superior temporal, and precentral alpha activity was positively correlated with theta activity in the same regions and the superior frontal gyrus. Additionally, participants with a stronger pre‐trial alpha activity in the primary motor cortex showed a stronger (within‐trial) conflict effect in the theta band in the primary motor cortex. This theta conflict effect was further related to a stronger theta conflict effect in the midcingulate cortex until the end of the trial. The temporal cascade of these processes suggests that successful proactive preparation (anticipatory information gating) entails a stronger reactive processing of the conflicting stimulus information likely resulting in a realization of the need to adapt the current action plan. The results indicate that theta and alpha band activity share and transfer aspects of information when it comes to the interrelationship between proactive and reactive control during conflict‐modulated motor inhibition.
Reservoir operation impacts on streamflow and sediment dynamics in the transboundary river basin, Vietnam
Authors: Bui Thao T. P. , Kantoush Samehahmed , Kawamura Akira , Du Tien L. T. , Bui Nuong Thi , Capell René , Nguyen Ngoc T. , Du Bui Duong , Saber Mohamed , Tetsuya Sumi , Lee Hyongki , Saleh Ali , Lakshmi Venkataraman , Bartosova Alena , Van Binh Doan , Nguyen Binh Quang , Nguyen Tra T. T.
Published: September 2023

Human interventions activities around the world, particularly reservoir operation, have dramatically altered hydrological and sediment regimes in most of the major river basins. In the Mekong River, specifically the Upper Srepok River Basin (USRB) which is a main tributary of the river basin connected to the Mekong Delta's rice bowl and the Tonle Sap Lake's top inland fisheries, there are increasing concerns about the impacts of cascade reservoir operations on downstream streamflow and sediment budgets. Previous studies estimating impacts either relied solely on observed data or did not verify simulations of regulated streamflow. Using a process‐based hydrological model calibrated and validated for both natural and regulated streamflow in the USRB, it was found that the monthly hydrological changes were up to ±20% compared to pre‐dam periods at the most downstream station bordering between Vietnam and Cambodia (i.e., Ban Don station). The basin also experienced a slight decrease (less than 2%) in annual streamflow. Additionally, average and peak suspended sediment concentration decreased significantly in both of the annual and seasonal periods. At the Ban Don station, sediment loads were reduced 140 thousand tons/year (i.e., 15%) compared to pre‐dam period. Most of the changes in streamflow and sediment budgets in the basin were driven by the Buon Tua Srah reservoir, which had the highest degree of regulation in the basin. Therefore, integrated and transboundary water and sediment management, particularly at Buon Tua Srah reservoir, needs to be developed for the sustainability of the river basin.
Oxycodone alleviates mifepristone‐stimulated human endometrial stromal cell injury by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Aibing , Yao Fei , Shen Mingkun
Published: September 2023

Background

Endometrial injury is a common disease in women caused by intrauterine inflammation, infections, and endocrine disorders. Human endometrial stromal cells (hEndoSCs) can maintain endometrial homeostasis and play an important role in repairing endometrial injury. Mifepristone, a steroidal anti‐progesterone drug, is widely used in the field of reproductive medicine worldwide. Mifepristone‐induced hEndoSC injury has been used to study endometrial injury in vitro. At present, the pathogenesis and potential regulatory mechanisms of oxycodone in endometrial injury remain unknown.

Aims

We aimed to evaluate the functions of oxycodone in mifepristone‐stimulated hEndoSC injury and analyze its potential molecular mechanism.

Materials & Methods

hEndoSC viability, cytotoxicity, and apoptosis were analyzed using the methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay, the lactate dehydrogenase assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. Furthermore, the levels of cleaved‐Caspase3, Keap1, Nrf2, HO‐1, and NQO1 were assessed using reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis, and the release of inflammatory cytokines was determined using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

We observed that oxycodone had no adverse effects on hEndoSCs; rather, it protected hEndoSCs against mifepristone‐induced endometrial damage, as confirmed by the enhanced cell viability, reduced number of apoptotic cells, decreased Caspase3 activity and inflammatory cytokine secretion, and increased Keap1/Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway‐related protein expression. In addition, we found that the protective effects of oxycodone on mifepristone‐induced hEndoSC injury were inhibited by ML385 (a Keap1/Nrf2/HO‐1 inhibitor).

Conclusion

In summary, we confirmed that oxycodone alleviates mifepristone‐induced hEndoSC injury by activating the Keap1/Nrf2/HO‐1 signaling pathway.
Effects of albiflorin on oxidative stress and inflammatory responses in rats with acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Fang Pengfei , Wang Yi , Sun Fengqi , Lin Haisheng , Zhang Xindong
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Oxidative stress and inflammatory responses are often the predominant detrimental factors associated with spinal cord injury (SCI). This study investigates the potential therapeutic effects of albiflorin (AF) on alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress in the rat model with SCI.

Methods

Initially, the behavior of SCI‐induced rats is examined by Basso−Beattie−Bresnahan score and the inclined plane examination. Then, the immunohistochemical staining of inflammasome‐related protein (for instance, NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains‐containing protein 3, NLRP3) is performed in combination with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of corresponding proinflammatory factors to assess the immunomodulatory effects of AF. Further, the markers involved in oxidative stress are examined by ELISA and western blot analysis analyses.

Results

These findings indicated that AF could alleviate motor dysfunction and the loss of neuron cells in SCI‐induced rats. Mechanistically, AF could attenuate the inflammatory responses by reducing oxidative stress and activating nuclear erythroid‐related factor 2 (Nrf2)/heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) pathway in SCI rats. Depleting the antioxidant capacity by inhibiting glutathione biosynthesis could counteract the anti‐inflammatory activity of AF in SCI rats.

Conclusions

Together, our data suggested that AF could serve as a potential therapeutic agent against the aggravation of SCI in rats.