bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Consuming, Engaging and Confronting Science
Authors: Elam Mark , Bertilsson Margareta
Published: July 2003

As the distance between science and society is collapsed with the growth of contemporary knowledge societies, so a range of different approaches to the democratic governance of science superseding its Enlightenment government is emerging. In light of these different approaches, this article focuses on the figure of the scientific citizen and the variable dimensions of a new scientific citizenship. Three models of democracy - advanced consumer, deliberative and radical/pluralist - are put forward as both partly competing and partly complementary frameworks within which the new rights and responsibilities of the scientific citizen can be articulated and discussed. In each case the theory and practice of scientific citizenship are viewed against the background of contemporary developments within the field of science communication; the rise of the public understanding of science movement; the new enthusiasm for advancing public engagements with science, and the legitimate place of different forms of public protest and dissent within new designs for democratic governance.
Were those Boots Made Just for Walking? Shoes as Performing Objects in Everyday Life and in the Theatre
Authors: Margolies Eleanor
Published: July 2003

This article takes the shoe as a case study for engaging with theories of the object. Semiotic approaches to material objects are discussed, with reference to Barthes, Krampen, and Kress and Van Leeuwen. Jiri Veltruský's important article `Man and Object in the Theatre' and Merleau-Ponty's phenomenological account of the relationship between body and object are presented as useful tools for describing spectators' and performers' experience of materiality in performance. Examples of the use of shoes in actor training and in recent productions are discussed and several distinct approaches are identified: shoes as costume, as indices of their wearers' presence, as `texts' or scripts for movement, as sculptural objects and as independent theatrical subjects.
Heat Transfer Rolls: Function, Application and Design Relationships
Authors: Cozzarin George R. , Womer Timothy W.
Published: July 2003

Heat transfer rolls are used in a multitude of processes within a wide range of industries. The process used to produce a product, and the product itself, dictate the roll's function. The roll Designer must determine the optimum internal design, the most reliable external coating and the proper surface finish in order to achieve the expected performance and, most importantly, the desired end product. There exists a hand full of roll designs that offer as many degrees of heat transfer efficiency. However, there exist numerous coatings that can be applied to the rolls, and hundreds of surface finishes that can be imparted on the coatings. This paper presents itself as a guide to the various designs of heat transfer rolls, the applications they are utilized in, and the analysis used to optimize the design for maximum heat transfer efficiency.
Immunopathology of fatal soybean dust-induced asthma
Authors: Synek M , Anto JM , Beasley R , Frew AJ , Holloway L , Lampe FC , Lloreta JL , Sunyer J , Thornton A , Holgate ST
Published: July 2003

A hypothesis was postulated that the characteristic clinical course of fatal soybean asthma may be reflected by specific immunopathological findings. Seven cases of fatal soybean dust-induced asthma from Barcelona, Spain were compared with 25 fatal asthma cases from New Zealand. Sections of lung tissue were stained by monoclonal antibodies using standard streptavidin-biotin peroxidase technique. The following cell types were identified: mast cells, "activated" eosinophils, neutrophils, monocytes/macrophages, CD3+ T-cells and CD8+ T-cells. The positively staining cells were counted in the epithelium and the submucosa and their numbers expressed per mm and mm2, respectively. The airways were divided into larger (internal perimeter (Pi) > 2 mm) and smaller (Pi < 2 mm). Firstly, all airways were studied together; and subsequently, larger and smaller airways were studied separately. Differences in the numbers of mast cells, eosinophils, neutrophils and monocytes/macrophages between the two groups were not significant. The numbers of CD3+ and CD8+ T-cells were significantly reduced in fatal soybean asthma when all airways were taken together. In larger airways, the difference was not significant in the epithelium, but was significant in the submucosa for CD3+ cells. CD8+ cells were significantly reduced in fatal soybean asthma both in the epithelium and the submucosa. The cell counts in smaller airways were not significantly different either in the epithelium or in the submucosa for CD3+ cells. The numbers of CD8+ cells were not different in the epithelium, but were significantly reduced in the submucosa of fatal soybean asthma cases. We conclude that the numbers of CD3+ and CD8+ T-cells are substantially reduced in fatal soybean asthma. These data together with the clinical features of the fatal attack suggest a different mechanism(s) from that described for most asthma deaths, probably involving anaphylaxis.
Comparison of an expert system with other clinical scores for the evaluation of severity of asthma
Authors: Gautier V , Redier H , Pujol JL , Bousquet J , Proudhon H , Michel C , Daures JP , Michel FB , Godard P
Published: July 2003

"Asthmaexpert" was produced at the special request of several clinicians in order to obtain a better understanding of the medical decisions taken by clinical experts in the management of asthmatic patients. In order to assess the severity of asthma, a new score called Artificial Intelligence score (AI score), produced by Asthmaexpert, was compared with three other scores (Aas, Hargreave and Brooks). One hundred patients were enrolled prospectively in the study during their first consultation in the out-patient clinic. Distribution of severity level according to the different scores was studied, and the reliability between AI and other scores was evaluated by Kappa and MacNemar tests. Correlations with functional parameters were performed. The AI score assessed higher levels of severity than the other scores (Kappa = 18, 28 and 10% for Aas, Hargreave and Brooks, respectively) with significant MacNemar test in all cases. There was a significant correlation between AI score and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) (r = 0.73). These data indicate that the AI score is a severity score which defines higher levels of severity than the chosen scores. Correlations for functional parameters are good. This score appears easy to use for the first consultation of an asthmatic patient.
Night cough in a population-based sample of children: characteristics, relation to symptoms and associations with measures of asthma severity
Authors: Brooke AM , Lambert PC , Burton PR , Clarke C , Luyt DK , Simpson H
Published: July 2003

Nocturnal cough in asthma is a common but poorly understood phenomenon. The aims of this study were to determine the relationship between recorded night cough, reported night cough and current wheeze in a population-based sample of children previously identified as wheezy, and to examine the relationship of nocturnal cough to current symptoms, markers of asthma severity and environmental exposure. Children were reassessed in the early school years by measuring current symptoms, ventilatory function, bronchial reactivity, peak flow variability, respiratory symptom diaries and home monitoring of overnight cough, transcutaneous arterial oxygen saturation, room temperature and humidity. Night studies were performed on 59 asymptomatic children and 41 children with current wheeze. Cough occurred more frequently in current wheezers compared to asymptomatic children (16 out of 41 (39%) vs 11 out of 59 (19%)), and more cough episodes were recorded (median 3.5 vs 2.0). Night cough was not associated with bronchial reactivity, peak flow variability, degree of morning dip, mean overnight arterial oxygen saturation, ventilatory function, maternal smoking or treatment of asthma. However, it was associated with lower overnight air temperature. Although night cough is more common in current wheezers, there is poor agreement between recorded and reported night cough. Objective tests of asthma severity are of little use in predicting its presence in this age group. The sleeping environment deserves further study.
Differential role of actin in lung endothelial and epithelial barrier properties in perfused rabbit lungs
Authors: Ermert L , Rossig R , Hansen T , Schutte H , Aktories K , Seeger W
Published: July 2003

Lung fluid balance is critically dependent on capillary endothelial and alveolar epithelial barrier properties, and cytoskeletal components have been implicated in these barrier functions. In an earlier study, we perfused Clostridium botulinum C2 toxin, which effects selective loss of non-muscle F-actin, through isolated rabbit lungs: a severalfold increase in the capillary filtration coefficient (Kfc) was noted, together with attenuations and disruptions of endothelial cells upon electron microscopic examination. In this model we have investigated the influence of the C2 toxin on alveolar epithelial barrier properties. Epithelial permeability was assessed by continuous monitoring of the transepithelial passage of technetium-labelled diethylenetriamine penta-acetic acid (99mTc-DTPA), offered to the alveolar surface by aerosol technique. Intravascular administration of hydrogen peroxide, used as control agent, was shown to provoke a four- to fivefold increase in the clearance rate of 99mTc-DTPA under conditions of severe fluid leakage into the lung interstitial and alveolar space. Intravascular administration of C2 toxin caused a dose- and time-dependent increase in Kfc values (8-15 fold), but the Tc-DTPA clearance rate was entirely unaffected. Moreover, transbronchial application of C2 toxin again reproduced the manifold increase in Kfc data (about six fold), but the rate of transepithelial passage of the hydrophilic Tc-DTPA complex remained unchanged. We conclude that the barrier properties of the lung microvascular endothelial and epithelial layer are differentially regulated. It is suggested that the actin microfilament system plays a decisive role in the structural and functional integrity of the endothelial but not the epithelial barrier.
Nasal continuous positive airway pressure with supplemental oxygen in coexistent sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome and severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Sampol G , Sagales MT , Roca A , de la Calzada MD , Bofill JM , Morell F
Published: July 2003

The objective of our study was to assess the application of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) with supplemental oxygen for correction of upper airway obstructive episodes and hypoxaemia during sleep in stable patients with sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome (SAHS) and severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Ten male patients with symptomatic SAHS and severe COPD (forced expiratory volume in one second < 50% of predicted) were studied for three consecutive nights. Diagnostic polysomnography was performed the first night and repeated with increasing nCPAP levels, with and without supplemental oxygen on the second and third nights, respectively. Diagnostic polysomnography showed: mean (SD) apnoea-hypopnoea index 41 (22) events.h-1; mean arterial oxygen saturation (Sa,O2) was 86 (2)% and mean desaturation nadir was 81 (4)% during non-rapid eye movement (nREM) sleep and 80 (7)% and 73 (9)%, respectively during REM sleep. The application of nCPAP during the second night corrected apnoeas and hypopnoeas, but mean Sa,O2 remained < 90% in all patients. With the addition of oxygen at a flow of 1.5 L.min-1 at suboptimal nCPAP levels, we observed an increase in apnoea frequency, persistence of apnoeas at nCPAP levels which eliminated them when no supplemental oxygen was administered, and longer duration of apnoeas and hypopnoeas. However, when the effective nCPAP level of the second night was reached with supplemental oxygen during the third night, its efficacy in eliminating apnoeas and hypopnoeas was maintained and, furthermore, all patients presented Sa,O2 > 90%, with no greater hypercapnia cardiac arrhythmias. We conclude that nasal continuous positive airway pressure with supplemental oxygen constitutes a practical therapeutic alternative for hypoxic patients with sleep apnoea-hypopnoea syndrome and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Cocaine-induced Churg-Strauss vasculitis
Authors: Orriols R , Munoz X , Ferrer J , Huget P , Morell F
Published: July 2003

A freebase cocaine-smoking woman developed relapsing fever, bronchoconstriction, arthralgias and weight loss. Pulmonary infiltrates, arthritis, microhaematuria, pruriginous skin rash and mononeuritis multiplex were later added to the clinical picture. Both skin and muscle biopsies showed eosinophilic angiitis. Improvement or worsening of her clinical picture repeatedly coincided with avoidance or use of smoked cocaine, respectively. We suggest that Churg-Strauss vasculitis may be a complication of smoking freebase cocaine.
Screening for Speech and Language Problems in Young Children
Authors: Jin Jill
Published: January 2024

This JAMA Patient Page describes the pros and cons of screening for speech and language problems in children aged 5 years or younger.
Molecular Induced Patching Process Improving Film Quality for High‐Efficiency Cd‐Free Antimony Selenosulfide Solar Cells
Authors: Hu Yue , Huang Lei , Che Bo , Wang Haolin , Liu Aoxing , Zhu Changfei , Tang Rongfeng , Chen Tao
Published: January 2024

The preparation of thin films with flat, compact morphology and fewer defects is the key to the efficiency of solar cells. For antimony selenosulfide (Sb2(S,Se)3), developing flexible preparation methods that can regulate the structure of the films is crucial for the defect control and performance of the devices. Herein, an effective strategy is developed of intervening in the intermediate deposition process of Sb2(S,Se)3 film to regulate its growth on the titanium dioxide (TiO2) electron transport layer (ETL). Thioacetamide (TA) is introduced as an additive and sulfur source during the chemical bath deposition. By reacting with (SbO)OH, it not only eliminates the Sb2O3 phase, but also in‐situ patches the pinholes in the Sb2(S,Se)3 film. In addition, it is found that the increase in sulfur content promotes the transformation of SbS defect to VS defect, while a lower S/Se atomic ratio can simultaneously reduce the formation of SbS and VS defects. As a result, a PCE of 8.52% is obtained, which is the champion efficiency for the solution‐processed TiO2/Sb2(S,Se)3 solar cells. This work provides a guidance for synthesizing high‐quality metal chalcogenide films on oxide substrates in terms of morphology and defect control.
Pentafluoro(phenoxy)cyclotriphosphazene Stabilizes Electrode/Electrolyte Interfaces for Sodium‐Ion Pouch Cells of 145 Wh Kg−1
Authors: Liao Yaqi , Yuan Lixia , Han Yan , Liang Chaofan , Li Zezhuo , Li Zhen , Luo Wei , Wang Donghai , Huang Yunhui
Published: January 2024

Sodium‐ion batteries are competitive candidates for large‐scale energy storage batteries due to the abundant sodium resource. However, the electrode interface in the conventional electrolyte is unstable, deteriorating the cycle life of the cells. Introducing functional electrolyte additives can generate stable electrode interfaces. Here, pentafluoro(phenoxy)cyclotriphosphazene (FPPN) serves as a functional electrolyte additive to stabilize the interfaces of the layered oxide cathode and the hard carbon anode. The fluorine substituting groups and the π–π conjugated ─PN─ structure decrease the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital and increase the highest occupied molecular orbital of FPPN, respectively, realizing the preferential reduction and oxidization of FPPN on the anode and cathode simultaneously, which results in the formation of a uniform, ultrathin, and inorganic‐rich solid electrolyte interlayer and cathode electrolyte interphase. The sodium‐ion pouch cells of 5 Ah capacity rather than coin cells are assembled to evaluate the effect of FPPN. It can retain a high capacity of 4.46 Ah after 1000 cycles, corresponding to a low decay ratio of 0.01% per cycle. The pouch cell also achieves a high energy density of 145 Wh kg−1 and a wide operating temperature of −20–60 °C. This work can attract more attention to the rational electrolyte design for practical applications.
Modulating Luminescence of Double Perovskites by Intrinsic Strain Effect and Applications in White Light Emitting Devices
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Haoyu , Zhang Fan , Dong Xingchen , Guan Wei , Wang Peng , Zhang Shuo , Sui Lina , Gan Zhixing , Dong Lifeng , Yu Liyan
Published: January 2024

Double perovskite (DP) is considered as a promising candidate for single‐component white‐light emitters. However, the photoluminescence (PL) efficiency of the small sized DP, such as microcrystals and nanocrystals, is generally unsatisfactory. In this work, by comparing the Sb/Bi co‐doped Cs2NaInCl6 microcrystals prepared at different conditions, it is revealed that the PL spectral profile and efficiency are highly dependent on intrinsic strain effect. All the Sb/Bi co‐doped Cs2NaInCl6 DPs exhibit blue PL at ≈445 nm and yellow PL at ≈560 nm. When the crystal size decreases, the release of local strain results in a significant quenching in the emission intensity. Accordingly, by optimizing the reaction conditions to introduce sufficient lattice mismatch, high PL quantum yields (QYs) of 76.38% and 86.44% are obtained for blue and yellow PL, respectively. Moreover, a white light‐emitting convertor with a high colour rendering index (CRI) of 90.0 is fabricated, which shows a luminous efficiency of 40.4 lm W−1.
Substrate‐induced Selective α‐C(sp3)−H Activation of N‐alkyl Amines: Synthesis of Coumarin‐fused Quinolinones under Air
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Wan Juan , Yin Lu , Fu Meitian , Huang Chao
Published: January 2024

A substrate‐induced synthesis of coumarin‐fused quinolinones is achieved from 4‐(phenylamino)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐ones using N‐alkyl amines as the solvent and a carbon source under air conditions without any catalysts in one pot. This protocol highlights the special roles of 4‐(phenylamino)‐2H‐chromen‐2‐ones which were not only used as reactants but also as an internal oxidant selectively activated N‐α‐C(sp3)−H bond. This reaction features catalyst‐free, broad substrate scopes (N‐alkyl amines 27 examples and quinolinones 24 examples), operationally simple for the one‐step synthesis, and recovery and recycling of the solvent.
Iodine‐Catalyzed Cascade Reaction of 2‐Styrylbenzaldehydes with Indoles in the Synthesis of 1H‐Indenes via 4π‐Electrocyclization
Authors: Suresh Sundaram , Tsai Hao‐Yu , Han Xin‐Lun , Kavala Veerababurao , Palla Sowndarya , Yao Ching‐Fa
Published: January 2024

A cascade reaction between 2‐styrylbenzaldehydes and indoles has been developed for the synthesis of 1H‐indenes. An iodine‐catalyzed nucleophilic addition of indoles to an aldehyde group of 2‐styrylbenzaldehydes leads to the formation of carbocation intermediates that undergo 4π‐electrocyclization to give indenes with a trisubstituted double bond. These indenes are transformed into thermodynamically more stable products with a fully substituted double bond under the reaction conditions. Minor quantities of indolylbenzo[b]carbazoles are also produced as by‐products.
Recent Developments in Copper‐Based Catalysts for Enhanced Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Yesupatham Manova Santhosh , Honnappa Brahmari , Agamendran Nithish , kumar Sai Yeswanth , Chellasamy Gayathri , Govindaraju Saravanan , Yun Kyusik , Selvam N. Clament Sagaya , Maruthapillai Arthanareeswari , Li Wei , Sekar Karthikeyan
Published: January 2024

The drastic climate change imposing adverse environmental effects receives serious research attention for finding a suitable solution. The replacement of conventional fossil energy sources with renewable and sustainable energy sources is the potential route; and thus, manifests as a viable solution. Accordingly, the electrocatalytic carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction process coupled with the renewable energy source is an emerging strategy for adopting a sustainable approach. However, the existing challenges in designing suitable catalyst, support material, electrolyte, inadequate selectivity, and intermediate reactions of CO2 reduction demand substantial research advancement. Numerous studies reported for the CO2 reduction process highlight the importance of catalyst design and product selectivity. Importantly, the copper‐based catalysts, capable in the output of multi‐carbon products, are reported as a “star” material. This review; therefore, focuses on catalyst design strategies, unique structural/morphological features, and product selectivity of diverse copper‐based catalysts. The outstanding findings of copper‐based catalysts and the corresponding products are critically discussed with adequate figures of merits. The impact of structural/morphological features on product selectivity is discussed in detail. The future scope and author perspectives on copper‐based catalysts for the feasible electrocatalytic CO2 reduction application are summarized.
OptiMo‐LDLr: An Integrated In Silico Model with Enhanced Predictive Power for LDL Receptor Variants, Unraveling Hot Spot Pathogenic Residues
Authors: Larrea‐Sebal Asier , Sasiain Iñaki , Jebari‐Benslaiman Shifa , Galicia‐Garcia Unai , Uribe Kepa B. , Benito‐Vicente Asier , Gracia‐Rubio Irene , Bediaga‐Bañeres Harbil , Arrasate Sonia , Cenarro Ana , Civeira Fernando , González‐Díaz Humberto , Martín Cesar
Published: January 2024

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited metabolic disease affecting cholesterol metabolism, with 90% of cases caused by mutations in the LDL receptor gene (LDLR), primarily missense mutations. This study aims to integrate six commonly used predictive software to create a new model for predicting LDLR mutation pathogenicity and mapping hot spot residues. Six predictive‐software are selected: Polyphen‐2, SIFT, MutationTaster, REVEL, VARITY, and MLb‐LDLr. Software accuracy is tested with the characterized variants annotated in ClinVar and, by bioinformatic and machine learning techniques all models are integrated into a more accurate one. The resulting optimized model presents a specificity of 96.71% and a sensitivity of 98.36%. Hot spot residues with high potential of pathogenicity appear across all domains except for the signal peptide and the O‐linked domain. In addition, translating this information into 3D structure of the LDLr highlights potentially pathogenic clusters within the different domains, which may be related to specific biological function. The results of this work provide a powerful tool to classify LDLR pathogenic variants. Moreover, an open‐access guide user interface (OptiMo‐LDLr) is provided to the scientific community. This study shows that combination of several predictive software results in a more accurate prediction to help clinicians in FH diagnosis.
A Closed‐Loop Recyclable Low‐Density Polyethylene
Authors: Unger Christoph , Schmalz Holger , Lipp Jannis , Kretschmer Winfried P. , Kempe Rhett
Published: January 2024

Low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most important plastics, which is produced unfortunately under extreme conditions. In addition, it consists of robust aliphatic C─C bonds which are challenging to cleave for plastic recycling. A low‐pressure and ‐temperature (pethylene = 2 bara, T = 70 °C) macromonomer‐based synthesis of long chain branched polyethylene is reported. The introduction of recycle points permits the polymerization (grafting to) of the macromonomers to form the long chain branched polyethylene and its depolymerization (branch cleavage). Coordinative chain transfer polymerization employing ethylene and co‐monomers is used for the synthesis of the macromonomers, permitting a high flexibility of their precise structure and efficient synthesis. The long chain branched polyethylene material matches key properties of low‐density polyethylene.
Retention amount and flow behavior of droplets on cross‐fiber intersections during coalescence separation
Authors: Lu Zhaojin , Zhang Lian , Yang Xiaoyong , Ding Zhenjie , Bai Zhishan
Published: January 2024

Cross fibers at different angles are essential for enhancing the separation of emulsions as the basic structure in fiber fillers. In this article, the retention and detachment process of droplets on fiber intersection were investigated using high‐speed camera technology to explore the critical volume, slip path and droplet oscillation. The results indicate that the critical volume retained on the intersection is significantly affected by the fiber slope, cross angle between fibers, and liquid viscosity. A droplet‐fiber interfacial force balance model is established to predict the critical volume and the tilt angle corresponding to maximum critical volume. The switching behaviors of selected fiber slippage depend on the slope, diameter, and affinity of the fiber. Compared with the lipophobic fiber woven mesh, the droplets on the lipophilic fiber mesh slip upward with a larger oscillate deformation and obvious periodicity. The mean deformation of droplets is 1.16 times that on lipophobic fiber.
Green synthesis of palladium nanoparticles mediated by Acer L. leaves as reducing agent, stabilizer, and carrier for Suzuki reaction
Authors: Wang Zhen , Wu Mianyuan , Lv Zhaoyi , Bai Xuefeng
Published: January 2024

Plant fiber‐supported palladium nanocatalysts (Pdx/FAL) with high catalytic activity and good stability were synthesized by one‐pot method using Na2PdCl4 as palladium source, Acer L. leaves as reducing agent, stabilizer, and carrier without adding chemical reducing agents or stabilizers. The as‐prepared catalysts were characterized by XRD, FT‐IR, SEM, TEM, and so forth. During the preparation process, the extraction of organic matter from Acer L. leaves, the reduction and stabilization of Pd2+, and the loading of palladium nanoparticles (PdNPs) were carried out simultaneously, which greatly simplified the preparation steps and reduced the cost. Oxygen‐ and nitrogen‐containing groups in the Acer L. leaf extract preferentially formed complexes with Pd2+, and then, the polyphenols reduced Pd2+ to Pd0, which ensured that PdNPs with small particle sizes were formed and embedded in porous plant fibers (extraction residue of Acer L. leaves) with oxygen‐containing groups, thereby improving the catalytic activity and stability of the catalyst. The characterization results showed that the prepared PdNPs with a face‐centered cubic structure were uniformly distributed on the support, and the average particle size was 3.08 nm. The Suzuki coupling reaction of 4‐bromonitrobenzene and phenylboronic acid by the prepared catalysts at 40°C showed that the reaction yield could reach 97.72%, and the TOF could reach 3,240.6 h−1, exhibiting high catalytic performance. The reaction of 4‐bromotoluene with phenylboronic acid gave a yield of 98.58%, which remained above 90% after seven repetitions. This article provided a simple, high‐performance, and eco‐friendly synthesis idea for nanopalladium catalysts.
Nanophotosensitizing through Space Charge Transfer Assemblies of Pentacenequinone Derivative for ‘Metal‐free’ Photoamidation Reactions
Authors: Kaur Kulwinder , Kaur Harpreet , Sharma Rajat , Kumar Sood Ashwani , Kumar Manoj , Bhalla Vandana
Published: January 2024

The present study demonstrates the influence of small portion (20 %) of organic co‐solvent (DMSO/THF/ACN/MeOH) in mixed aqueous media (80 % water) in controlling the size, quantum yield and life time of the through space charge transfer assemblies (TSCT) of pentacenequinone derivative (TPy‐PCQ‐TPy). Among various solvent systems [H2O : DMSO (8 : 2), H2O : THF (8 : 2), H2O : ACN (8 : 2) and H2O : MeOH (8 : 2)] examined, highly emissive (Φf=12 %) and nano‐sized assemblies having long life time (3.11 ns) were formed in H2O : DMSO (8 : 2) solvent system. The solvent dependent differences in the size and excited state properties of TPy‐PCQ‐TPy assemblies are reflected in their photosensitizing behaviour in different solvent systems. Backed by excellent photosensitizing properties, TPy‐PCQ‐TPy assemblies smoothly catalyse the photoamidation reactions between unactivated/activated aldehydes and secondary amine under mild reaction conditions (visible light irradiation, aerial atmosphere, room temperature) in H2O : DMSO (8 : 2) solvent mixture. The as prepared assemblies of TPy‐PCQ‐TPy also exhibit high potential to catalyse the oxidation of benzyl alcohols to aromatic aldehydes, thus, generating a possibility to use aromatic alcohols as the starting material in photoamidation reactions. The real time application of TSCT assemblies has also been demonstrated in gram scale transformation of aromatic aldehydes to aromatic amides and photooxidation of benzyl alcohol to aromatic aldehyde.
Mental wellbeing among higher education students in England during the pandemic: A longitudinal study of COVID‐19 experiences, social connectedness and greenspace use
Authors: Lemyre Anaïs , Chrisinger Benjamin W. , Palmer‐Cooper Emma , Messina Jane P.
Published: January 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic control measures substantially impacted the life of university students in the UK. While multiple studies investigated early stages of the pandemic, focusing on risk factors for depression and anxiety, fewer studies assessed later phases of the pandemic or examined positive protective factors for mental wellbeing. Our longitudinal study investigated changes and associations between COVID‐19 experiences, lifestyle behaviours, social connectedness and mental wellbeing in the second year of the pandemic. The validated Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale was used to measure the primary outcome mental wellbeing. Self‐reported data from 161 university students (18–35‐year‐old) in England was obtained. Data collection took place across two time points with contrasting COVID‐19 epidemiological and countermeasure attributes. T1 occurred in the spring of 2021, during the tail end of the third national lockdown when indoor household mixing was prohibited and vaccination rates were low among 18–35 year olds. T2 took place 6 months later, in the autumn of 2021, when restrictions had ended and vaccination rates were high. Within‐participant changes in students showed that mental wellbeing significantly improved over 6 months, suggesting positive adjustment. Fear of COVID‐19 and engagement in COVID‐19 protective behaviours significantly decreased as pandemic restrictions eased. Physical activity levels were high and did not change over time, while greenspace visits significantly diminished. Social support remained the same and group membership significantly increased over time. Hierarchal regressions revealed that social support was the most critical contributor to mental wellbeing. We discuss lessons for mental wellbeing promotion strategies: encouraging the use of greenspace as locations for distanced social interaction and physical activity in times of lockdown constraints.
Pharmacokinetics, absolute bioavailability, and tissue distribution of WJ‐14, a novel N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonist, in rats by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Huang Weiyin , Zhang Yan , Yang Lishou , Zhang Yiwen , Cheng Lei , Deng Yan , Wu Xinyu , Wang Tingting , Yang Xiaosheng , Ye Linhu
Published: January 2024

To circumvent the limitations of current antidepressants, WJ‐14, a novel N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonist, was synthesized and demonstrated to have remarkable efficiency in the treatment of depression. To illustrate the pharmacokinetics, absolute bioavailability, and tissue distribution of WJ‐14 in rats, a rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry–based analytical method was developed and validated for the separation and detection of WJ‐14 in both plasma and tissue samples. After oral administration, WJ‐14 was rapidly absorbed into the blood with time to reach the maximum plasma concentration (Tmax) within 0.28 h and quickly eliminated with clearance (Cl) exceeding 6.80 L/h/kg and elimination half‐life (t1/2) within 2.69 h. No obvious accumulation was found with mean residencetime (MRT) within 4.10 h. Tissue distribution revealed that WJ‐14 was extensively distributed in the main tissues of rats, and massive amounts of WJ‐14 were distributed in the liver. Extensive distribution and quick elimination led to extremely low absolute bioavailability of WJ‐14 (1.91% of 8.33 mg/kg and 3.30% of 24.99 mg/kg). WJ‐14 was detected in the brain only 0.083 h after oral administration, which is crucial for a rapid‐onset antidepressant candidate. In addition, WJ‐14 likely exhibited a non‐linear pharmacokinetic process at dosages of 8.33 and 24.99 mg/kg. The findings may provide valuable information for subsequent studies on WJ‐14.
Enhancing circular economy practices through the adoption of digital technologies
Authors: Carlos Ricardo Luiz , de Souza Elieber Bragatti , Mattos Claudia A.
Published: January 2024

In transitioning from a linear economy model to a circular business, digital technologies can help manage the flow of restorative and regenerative resources. In this context, the present study aims to evaluate the contribution of digital technologies, such as the internet of things (IoT), Big Data and Blockchain in the execution of circular economy (CE) practices and what mechanisms companies are adopting to integrate digital technologies into the circular context. The research method consists of an exploratory case study with a qualitative approach. Two prominent companies took part in the study. The results indicate benefits highlighted by companies, contemplate that Big Data analysis has improved performance in data processing and management, IoT has added monitoring and traceability to companies' packaging, thus bringing efficiency to recycling, recovery, reuse and disposal, and the Blockchain provides traceability, security and reliability for the implemented practice. This study contributes by exploring the factors that will help explain the mechanism for implementing CE practices. The present study integrates two dimensions (i.e., CE and digital technology). In doing so, it expands previous studies on CE practices by adopting digital technologies. As a practical contribution, the companies in the study understood that integration with startups benefits the development of projects. In addition to innovative proposals, they present digital technologies as management solutions for implementing CE practices.
Is it worth having more female managers? A portfolio risk perspective from the global microfinance industry
Authors: Hossain Md Imran , Mia Md Aslam
Published: January 2024

Promoting gender diversity at different organizational levels remains one of the hotly debated issues in recent years. Motivated by the paucity of research in this area, our study aims to investigate the impact of female managers on the credit risk of microfinance institutions (MFIs). We have collected data from 1004 unique MFIs across 96 countries, covering the period of 2010 to 2018, using the World Bank Mix Market data catalog. The data were then analyzed using several conventional tools and techniques, including endogeneity‐corrected estimators. The findings revealed that the presence of female managers lowers the credit risk of MFIs. The result mostly remains consistent and robust across different techniques and proxies. Therefore, promoting gender diversity at the managerial level could promote the long‐term sustainability of MFIs.
Recent Advances for Seawater Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Zhang Dan , Shi Yue , Yin Jiao , Lai Jianping
Published: January 2024

Hydrogen production from electrolysis of seawater is considered one of the most promising endeavors. However, the complexity of the seawater environment (corrosion‐prone, slow kinetics, and side reactions such as precipitation generation) leaves much room for progress in research on efficient and stable catalysts. In recent years, in order to improve the technology of hydrogen production from electrolytic seawater, scientists have focused on the preparation of catalysts and the design of electrolytes, which has resulted in important progress. In order to further understand the current research status and development prospects of seawater hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), this article summarizes the general design rules for electrocatalysts and electrolytes in seawater HER in recent years. For structure modulation, the effects of catalyst modulation strategies such as heterostructures, elemental doping, manufacturing defects, morphology engineering and others on performance enhancement are highlighted. Overall design guidelines are summarized for the electrolyte and directions for future in‐depth exploration are proposed with a view to the early realization of seawater hydrogen production on an industrial scale.
Recent Advances in the Denitrogenative Annulation Reactions of 1,2,3‐Thiadiazoles
Authors: Tokareva Marina A. , Glukhareva Tatiana V. , Keaveney Sinead T.
Published: January 2024

1,2,3‐Thiadiazoles exhibit versatile reactivity due to their ability to undergo ring cleavage, forming α‐diazothione species through a Dimroth‐type equilibrium. Denitrogenation of the α‐diazothione, induced by high temperature, irradiation, or strong bases, allows generation of a wide range of reactive intermediates. Since 2016, the transition‐metal‐catalyzed denitrogenative transannulation of 1,2,3‐thiadiazoles has garnered significant attention as a promising approach to constructing diverse heterocyclic scaffolds. This review focuses on the denitrogenative reactions of 1,2,3‐thiadiazoles, particularly highlighting the novel rhodium‐catalyzed denitrogenative transannulation transformations along with their mechanisms.
Bacteria at Work – Experimental and Theoretical Studies Reveal the Catalytic Mechanism of Ectoine Synthase
Authors: Andrys‐Olek Justyna , Kluza Anna , Tataruch Mateusz , Heider Johann , Korecki Józef , Borowski Tomasz
Published: January 2024

Ectoine synthase (EctC) catalyses the ultimate step of ectoine biosynthesis, a kosmotropic compound produced as compatible solute by many bacteria and some archaea or eukaryotes. EctC is an Fe2+‐dependent homodimeric cytoplasmic protein. Using Mössbauer spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations and QM/MM calculations, we determined the most likely coordination number and geometry of the Fe2+ ion and proposed a mechanism of the EctC‐catalysed reaction. Most notably, we show that apart from the three amino acids binding to the iron ion (Glu57, Tyr84 and His92), one water molecule and one hydroxide ion are required as additional ligands for the reaction to occur. They fill the first coordination sphere of the Fe2+‐cofactor and act as critical proton donors and acceptors during the cyclization reaction.
FRET‐Amplified Singlet Oxygen Generation by Nanocomposites Comprising Ternary AgInS2/ZnS Quantum Dots and Molecular Photosensitizers
Authors: Oskolkova Tatiana O. , Matiushkina Anna A. , Borodina Lyubov' N. , Smirnova Ekaterina S. , Dadadzhanova Antonina I. , Sewid Fayza A. , Veniaminov Andrey V. , Moiseeva Ekaterina O. , Orlova Anna O.
Published: January 2024

Antibacterial photodynamic therapy (a‐PDT) has emerged as a promising non‐invasive therapeutic modality that utilizes the combination of a photosensitive agent, molecular oxygen, and excitation light to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), demonstrating remarkable activity against multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections. However, the effective use of conventional photosensitizers is significantly limited by a number of their shortcomings, namely, poor water solubility and low selectivity. Herein, we present a novel biocompatible water‐soluble nanocomposite based on hydrophobic tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP) molecules and hydrophilic ternary AgInS2/ZnS quantum dots incorporated into a chitosan matrix as an improved photosensitizer for a‐PDT. We demonstrated that TPP molecules could be successfully transferred into chitosan solution while remaining primarily in the form of monomers, which are capable of singlet oxygen generation. We performed a detailed analysis of the Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) between quantum dots and TPP molecules within the nanocomposite and proposed the mechanism of the singlet oxygen efficiency enhancement via FRET.
Local feature matching and tracking optimization of machine VSLAM based on AG Sinkhorn
Authors: Pan Pan
Published: January 2024

At present, the visual Simultaneous localization and mapping method has a wide range of applications in mobile robots and unmanned driving. However, when the environment changes, the accuracy of the system drops sharply. Aiming at the low matching accuracy of local feature matching and tracking optimization in current visual simultaneous localization and mapping methods, the attention map neural network and Sinkhorn algorithm are used to extract and match the image features. Then, it improves the real‐time performance of the visual simultaneous localization and mapping system by local optimization of feature point matching, and proposes an optimization method for visual simultaneous localization and mapping in view of an end‐to‐end algorithm. The experiment illustrates that in the experimental comparison of HPatches View dataset, the Homography estimation was improved by 0.092, the matching accuracy was improved by 0.087, and the matching recall was improved by 0.038. In the experimental comparison of HPatches Illum dataset, the Homography estimation was improved by 0.015, the matching accuracy is improved by 0.076, and the matching recall was improved by 0.036. The local feature matching and tracking optimization method of the visual Simultaneous localization and mapping system through the attention map neural network and Sinkhorn algorithm can enhance the matching accuracy of local feature matching and tracking optimization in dynamic environment and under changing lighting conditions.
Simultaneous Electrochemical Detection of Dopamine and Uric Acid via Au@Cu‐Metal Organic Framework
Authors: Zhou Feng , Lim H. N. , Ibrahim I. , Endot N. A. , Malek E. A. , Gowthaman N. S. K.
Published: January 2024

The incorporation of noble metals with metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are conducive to the simultaneous electrochemical detection of analytes owing to multiple accessible reaction sites. Herein, Au@Cu‐metal organic framework (Au@Cu‐MOF) is successfully synthesized and modified as a screen‐printed carbon electrode (SPCE), which serves as an excellent electrocatalyst for the oxidation of dopamine (DA) and uric acid (UA). The sensor shows a linear range from 10 μM to 1000 μM, with sensitivity and detection limit of 0.231 μA μM−1 cm−2 and 3.40 μM for DA, and 0.275 μA μM−1 cm−2 and 10.36 μM for UA. Au@Cu‐MOF could realize the individual and simultaneous electrochemical sensing of DA and UA, with distinguishable oxidation peak potentials. Moreover, it exhibits reproducibility, repeatability, and stability. Ultimately, the sensor provides an avenue for an ultrasensitive label‐free electrochemical detection of DA and UA.
Colonic invasive adenocarcinoma with squamoid morules: A case report
Authors: Ishikawa Akira , Tanaka Hidenori , Yamashita Ken , Arihiro Koji , Oka Shiro , Shimomura Manabu , Ohdan Hideki
Published: January 2024

Colorectal adenomas with squamoid morules are rare; however, colorectal adenocarcinomas are even rarer. Herein, we present a case of colorectal adenocarcinoma with squamoid morules arising from the transverse colon. A 60‐year‐old Japanese man underwent a colonoscopy, and a Type 0‐Is polyp was detected in the transverse colon. The endoscopic findings suggested a high possibility of carcinoma invasion into the deep submucosa. However, endoscopic mucosal resection was performed due to the patient's preference. Histopathologically, the tumor cells mostly formed atypical glandular structures corresponding to adenocarcinomas. Solid nests were observed in parts of the tumor, composed of round, small to short spindles. Immunohistochemically, p63 was positive in some areas, CK20 was negative, and the Ki‐67 positive cell rate was almost zero, suggesting a squamoid morule. Based on the above findings, colorectal adenocarcinoma with a squamoid morule was diagnosed; only the fifth case was reported worldwide. Squamoid morules should be carefully differentiated from squamous components of adenosquamous carcinomas.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Alkylation of N‐Heterocycles with Nitriles via Heteroarylphosphonium Intermediates
Authors: Schömberg Fritz , Perić Milica , Vilotijevic Ivan
Published: January 2024

Heteroarylphosphonium salts are easily accessible, versatile intermediates in functionalization of N‐heterocycles. Direct C−C bond formation by net substitution of the phosphine has so far required transition metal catalysts, the use of strongly basic reagents or redox catalysis. Here we describe a C−C bond formation in direct reactions of benzothiazol‐2‐yl‐phosphonium and pyridin‐4‐yl‐phosphonium salts and nitrile anions which, together with the direct synthesis of phosphonium salts from benzothiazoles and pyridines, constitutes an efficient and simple two‐step protocol for C−H functionalization of these heterocycles under mild conditions.
Risk of fibromyalgia following antibiotic prescriptions: A population‐based case–control study
Authors: Armstrong David , Dregan Alex , Ashworth Mark , White Patrick
Published: January 2024

Background

The health of the gut microbiome is now recognized to be an important component of the gut–brain axis which itself appears to be implicated in pain perception. Antibiotics are known to create dysbiosis in the microbiome, so whether fibromyalgia is more commonly diagnosed after antibiotic prescriptions provides a means of exploring the role of the microbiome in the experience of chronic pain.

Methods

A case–control study was carried out using electronic health records collected in the UK's Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD), a comprehensive database of primary care consultations. For each case of diagnosed fibromyalgia, three controls were identified and matched by age, gender and GP practice. The exposure variable was the number and timing of antibiotic prescriptions over previous years. The analysis involved adjusting for a wide range of co‐variates that might be possible confounders.

Results

A total of 44,674 cases of fibromyalgia were identified together with 133,513 controls. After adjusting for co‐variates, it was found that both the total number of prescriptions and their timing was associated with an FM diagnosis. For example, the quartile with the highest number of prescriptions and that with the longest exposure had a greater than three‐fold increase in FM diagnoses (number of prescriptions: odds ratio 3.92; 95% CIs: 3.71–4.13; exposure odds ratio 3.28; CIs: 3.13–3.43). Some antibiotics (such as tetracyclines and metronidazole) seemed to confer greater risk than others.

Conclusions

The results lend support for prior antibiotics being an important risk factor for a diagnosis of FM.

Significance

This study shows an association between the volume as well as timing of prior antibiotic prescriptions and of a subsequent diagnosis of fibromyalgia in primary care.
Implementation of Cyclical Processes in the Moisture Electricity Generation for Continuous Operation
Authors: Bacherikov Yuriy Yu. , Okhrimenko Olga , Liubchenko Oleksii , Ponomarenko Valentina , Tarasov Georgii , Sadigov Azer , Ahmadov Farid , Naghiyev Jalal , Kidalov Valerii , Lyubchyk Sergiy , Lyubchyk Andriy
Published: January 2024

The article presents the results of a study on the generation of electricity using porous Ca6H2O19Si6 structures as an example during moisture adsorption. It has been determined that the potential difference at the contacts of a single‐layer structure of compacted Ca6H2O19Si6 particles depends on the time of formation of the potential‐determining and diffusion layers and processes that destroy the diffusion layer or prevent its formation can increase the efficiency of moisture electric generator. The concept for creating the moisture electric generators based on multilayer structures, which may allow the use of such structures as moisture electric generators for continuous operation under constant external conditions, has been proposed.