bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recruitment of cognitive control regions during effortful self-control is associated with altered brain activity in control and reward systems in dieters during subsequent exposure to food commercials
Authors: Lopez Richard B. , Courtney Andrea L. , Wagner Dylan D.
Published: February 2019

Engaging in effortful self-control can sometimes impair people’s ability to resist subsequent temptations. Existing research has shown that when chronic dieters’ self-regulatory capacity is challenged by prior exertion of effort, they demonstrate disinhibited eating and altered patterns of brain activity when exposed to food cues. However, the relationship between brain activity during self-control exertion and subsequent food cue exposure remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated whether individual differences in recruitment of cognitive control regions during a difficult response inhibition task are associated with a failure to regulate neural responses to rewarding food cues in a subsequent task in a cohort of 27 female dieters. During self-control exertion, participants recruited regions commonly associated with inhibitory control, including dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Those dieters with higher DLPFC activity during the initial self-control task showed an altered balance of food cue elicited activity in regions associated with reward and self-control, namely: greater reward-related activity and less recruitment of the frontoparietal control network. These findings suggest that some dieters may be more susceptible to the effects of self-control exertion than others and, whether due to limited capacity or changes in motivation, these dieters subsequently fail to engage control regions that may otherwise modulate activity associated with craving and reward.
Perceptions of Senior High School Students and Teachers on the Course Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person
Authors: Telan Jomabier
Published: February 2019

The course Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person is relatively new. Unlike other courses in the fields of Humanities, Sciences, and Mathematics which were also offered in the Senior High School Program, no formal research has been made in order to fortify or assess its utility and efficacy. Truly, the implementation of the Senior High School in June 2016 brought an utter change in the Philippine educational system. It was also expected that problems and issues arose from it. Thus, this study aimed to know the perceptions of nine (9) Senior High School students and two (2) Senior High School teachers on the course Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person. The participants were selected through quota sampling. Their personal experiences and point of views on the course are of great importance in this study. So, to deeply extract the data, the researcher used a qualitative-phenomenological design. Personal interview and focus group discussion were the means to get the data from the participants. The findings include: (a) Good implications of the subject; (b) Issues raised by the teachers; (c) and problems encountered by students and teachers. Hence, the students and teachers in this study did find good implications, issues, and problems in the course Introduction to Philosophy of the Human Person.
Higher LEAP: Learning Area Coordinators' Leadership Approaches and Faculty Performance in a Philippine University
Authors: Robiños John Robby , Perez Romelia , Jonas Edelina
Published: February 2019

Leadership is a connection between those who aim to influence and those who choose to be influenced and follow. Leaders at all levels practice definite patterns and systems that guide them to perform at their best.  The descriptive-correlational study was conducted to identify the most common leadership approaches of learning area coordinators and determine its association with their faculty performance rating. Seventy - six senior high school faculty members were randomly selected to answer an adopted leadership practices inventory instrument developed by Kouzes and Posner. The survey questionnaire measured the learning area coordinators' level of application of the five leadership approaches. Faculty performance evaluation was also retrieved.  Data analysis was carried out using the Chi-square test of correlation. The study findings revealed that learning area coordinators apply the five leadership approaches (modeling the way, inspiring a shared vision, challenging the process, enabling others to act and encouraging the heart) very frequently. Furthermore, about 70% of faculty performed from very satisfactorily to outstanding. Among these leadership approaches, it is modeling the way, challenging the process and encouraging the heart that was associated, X2 (15, 76 = 27.91, 33.66 and 33.11) =24.99, p<.05) to faculty performance evaluation. Based on the findings, recommendations that would enhance and develop leadership styles and practices are given.
Influence of Nitrogen on the Plant Growth and Seed Quality of Three T. (Transplanting) Aman Rice Varieties
Authors: Sultana Rezoana , Siddikee Muhibur Rahaman , Hasan Mahmudul , Rahman Tanjina , Ahmed Arif , Amin A. K. M. Ruhul
Published: February 2019

A field experiment was conducted at the Agronomy field of central research farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh during the period from June 2014 to December 2014 to study the influence of nitrogen on growth and seed quality of T. Aman rice variety with interaction effects between nitrogen doses and T. Aman rice varieties. The experiment consisted of two factors such as nitrogen fertilizer and variety. these were as follows: Factor A: Nitrogenous fertilizer (6 levels) viz. N0- controlled, N1- 50% less than BRRI recommended dose, N2- 25% less than BRRI recommended dose, N3- BRRI Recommended dose, N4- 25% higher than BRRI recommended dose, N5- 50% higher than BRRI recommended dose and Factor B: T. Aman rice (3 varieties) viz. V1 – BRRI dhan44, V2 - BRRI dhan54, V3 - BRRI dhan56. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Nitrogen was assigned to main plots and variety to sub-plots. In case of different levels of nitrogen, the treatment N4 (25% higher than BRRI recommended dose) showed good morphological growth and also produced good quality seed than other treatments which is also true for variety V1 (BRRI dhan44). The interaction of N4V1 (25% higher than recommended dose with BRRI dhan44) treatment is suitable for producing better plant growth and seed of T. Aman rice. The study was concluded that higher dose of urea than BRRI recommendation dose with BRRI dhan44 variety produced good quality seed.
Enhancing Sustainable Stingless Beekeeping Production through Technology Transfer and Human Resource Development in Relationship with Extension Agents Work Performance among Malaysian Beekeepers
Authors: Isah Ibrahim Aliyu , Olagunju Oluwatoyin , Ismail Mohd Mansor , Hassan Salim , Man Norsida
Published: February 2019

Stingless beekeeping is not only a profitable activity to Malaysian beekeepers but also to Malaysian economy. However, natural honey has faced some difficulties which resulted to low production due to lack of information on improved technology as well as capacity and potential building of stingless beekeeping farmers which depend mostly on information received from the extension agents. Hence, it is the responsibility of the extension agents to give useful information on the available technology and develop the capacity of the farmers to take right decision that will improve their level of production. This study assessed how technology transfer and human resource development skills influences work performance of the extension agents towards sustainable beekeeping production among beekeepers. The study sought to establish the role of relevant technology transfer and human resource development skills in effective performance. The research design was descriptive and quantitative survey of stingless beekeepers on technology transfer and human resource development by the extension agent. Data was obtained from 54 beekeeping farmers and was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed that technology skill, technology dissemination skill, technology evaluation skill, Decision making process skill, Leadership development skill and work performance were rated moderate by stingless beekeeping farmers while Social skill was rated high. Significant and positive correlation (P<0.01) existed between all variables and performance. Regression results showed that leadership development skill, Decision making process skill, and social skill are significant (P = .05), while technology skill, technology dissemination skill, technology evaluation skill are not significant. The highest contributing factor is social skill (β=.446). Beekeeping is a profitable project in Malaysia and can be sustained if the extension services and programmes are well carried out by competent extension agents and relevant agricultural government agency.
Incidence of Restoration Replacement in South-Canara Population - An Epidemiological Survey
Authors: Qaiser Shazeena , Devadiga Darshana , Hegde Mithra N. , Shetty Nireeksha
Published: February 2019

Aim: Aim of the present study was to determine the incidence of restoration replacement and associated factors among South Canara population.

Place of Study: Department of Conservative Dentistry and Endodontics, AB Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences, Deralakatte, Mangaluru.

Duration of Study: May 15, 2018-June 15, 2018 (1 month).

Methodology: 2000 patients were examined using mouth mirror and explorer under good lighting facilities, followed by a questionnaire to determine the incidence of restoration replacement and the parameters checked for correlations were type of the restorative material, class of the restoration, reason for the failure, type and position of the tooth, and patient factors such as age-group, gender and oral hygiene measures followed.

Statistical Analysis: Data obtained was statistically analysed by using IBM SBSS version 24.

Differences between variables were analysed by Chi-square test.

Results and Conclusion: Significant differences were found in case of age groups, reason of replacement and the class of restoration The incidence of restoration replacement was 18.2% as 364 patients out of 2000 patients showed the need for replacements. The main cause of the failure was secondary caries followed by material fracture and discoloration. Amalgam was the most commonly replaced restorative material and lower molar teeth showed more failures. It also indicated that replacements were more prevalent in males and for individuals brushing once daily followed by ones with occasional brushing and lastly who brushed twice daily.
The Arbitrary l-state Solutions of the Hellmann Potential by Feynman Path Integral Approach
Authors: Kandirmaz Nalan
Published: February 2019

In this study, we used the Path integral method to obtain the bound state solutions of the Hellmann potential. Firstly we analytically derived the radial kernel expression of the Hellmann potential using the approximation of the centrifugal term and space-time transformations. Then we calculated the exact energy spectrum and the normalized eigenfunction from the poles of the Green function and their residues. We expressed normalized wave functions in terms of Jacobi polynoms and Hypergeometric functions.
MD-Granting Medical Schools in the US, 2023-2024
Authors: Barzansky Barbara , Walker Felicia
Published: November 2024

This Appendix presents data derived from the 2023-2024 Liaison Committee on Medical Education Annual Medical School Questionnaire-Part II.
Target Serum Urate Achievement and Chronic Kidney Disease Progression in Patients With Gout and Kidney Disease
Authors: Wang Yilun , Dalbeth Nicola , Terkeltaub Robert , Zhang Yuqing , Li Xiaoxiao , Zeng Chao , Lei Guanghua , Wei Jie
Published: November 2024

Importance

Clinicians often approach urate-lowering therapy (ULT) cautiously in patients with gout and impaired kidney function because they are concerned about the risk of progression to severe or end-stage kidney disease. However, evidence from randomized clinical trials of this association remains inconclusive.

Objective

To evaluate the association between achieving target serum urate level with ULT and progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to severe or end-stage in patients with gout and impaired kidney function.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This was a cohort study using the target trial emulation approach using data from a general practice database (IQVIA Medical Research Database) for 2000 to 2023. Eligible patients were 40 to 89 years old and had gout and CKD stage 3. Data analyses were performed from November 2023 to September 2024.

Exposures

Lowering serum urate level to target level (<6 mg/dL) using ULT.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Severe or end-stage kidney disease, determined by an estimated glomerular filtration rate of less than 30 mL/min/1.73 m2 on at least 2 occasions more than 90 days apart within 1 year, or at least 1 Read code (per the Refined Etiology, Anatomical Site, and Diagnosis classification) for CKD stages 4 or 5, hemodialysis, peritoneal dialysis, or kidney transplant. The prespecified noninferiority margin of the hazard ratio (HR) was set at 1.2, comparing those who achieved the target serum urate level with those who did not.

Results

Among the 14 792 participants (mean [SD] age, 73.1 [9.5] years; 9215 men [62.3%] and 5577 women [37.7%]) with gout and with CKD stage 3, the 5-year risk of severe or end-stage kidney disease was 10.32% for those who achieved the target serum urate level and 12.73% for those who did not. Compared with those not achieving the target level, the adjusted 5-year risk difference and HR of severe or end-stage kidney disease for patients achieving the target serum urate level was −2.41% (95% CI, −4.61% to −0.21%) and 0.89 (95% CI, 0.80 to 0.98), respectively.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study indicate that in patients with gout and CKD stage 3, lowering serum urate level to less than 6 mg/dL vs 6 mg/dL or greater using ULT was not associated with an increased risk of severe or end-stage kidney disease. These findings support optimizing ULT to achieve target serum urate levels when treating patients with gout and impaired kidney function.
Modeling Health and Economic Outcomes of Eliminating Sex Disparities in Youth Physical Activity
Authors: Tamura Kosuke , Martinez Marie F. , Deng Yangyang , Heneghan Jessie , Weatherwax Colleen , Velmurugan Kavya , Chin Kevin L. , Rogers Breanna , Moniruzzaman Mohammad , Whitley Meredith , Bartsch Sarah M. , O’Shea Kelly J. , Dibbs Alexis , Scannell Sheryl , Lee Bruce Y.
Published: November 2024

Importance

Sex disparities in physical activity (PA) and sports participation among US children and adolescents have been persistent. Quantifying the impact of reducing or eliminating these disparities may help determine how much to prioritize this problem and invest in interventions and policies to reduce them.

Objective

To quantify what might happen if existing PA and sports participation disparities were reduced or eliminated between male and female children and adolescents.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This simulation study used an agent-based model representing all children (aged 6 to 17 years) in the US, their PA and sports participation levels, and relevant physical and physiologic characteristics (eg, body mass index) as of 2023. Experiments conducted from April 5, 2024, to September 10, 2024, simulated what would happen during the lifetime of each cohort member if PA and sports participation levels for female participants were increased (to varying degrees) to match male participants in the same age group.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Health outcomes, such as body mass index, incidence of weight-related conditions (eg, stroke, coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer), and economic outcomes (eg, direct medical costs and productivity losses).

Results

This simulation study modeled 8 299 353 US children and adolescents (4 240 119 [51.1%] male and 4 059 234 [48.9%] female) aged 6 to 17 years. Eliminating PA sex disparities averted 28 061 (95% CI, 25 358-30 763) overweight and obesity cases per cohort by age 18 years, which in turn averted 4869 (95% CI, 4007-5732) weight-related disease cases during their lifetimes and resulted in recurring savings of $333.45 million (95% CI, $290.22 million to $376.68 million) in direct medical costs and $446.42 million (95% CI, $327.39 million to $565.44 million) in productivity losses (in 2024 US dollars) for every new cohort of 6- to 17-year-olds. Reducing PA disparities by 50% averted 9027 (95% CI, 6942-11 112) overweight and obesity cases. Eliminating sex disparities in sports participation averted 41 499 (95% CI, 37 874-45 125) cases of overweight and obesity and 8939 (95% CI, 8088-9790) weight-related disease cases during their lifetimes, generating recurring savings of $713.48 million (95% CI, $668.80 million to $758.16 million) in direct medical costs and $839.68 million (95% CI, $721.18 million to $958.18 million) in productivity losses.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this simulation study of youth PA and sports participation, eliminating sex disparities could save millions of dollars for each new cohort of 6- to 17-year-olds, which could exceed the cost of programs and investments that could enable greater equity.
Measuring Intelligence in 3 Min: Concurrent, Convergent and Discriminant Validity of the Baddeley Reasoning Test
Authors: Furnham Adrian
Published: November 2024

This paper used the author's full data archive to examine the correlates of the Baddeley Reasoning Test (BRT) in six studies with a student population. The correlations between the BRT and Wonderlic Personnel Test (WPT), a 12‐min, well‐established American test of general intelligence, ranged from 0.46 < r < 0.65 in six data sets. Correlations (uncorrected) with a measure of General Knowledge in three studies showed 0.17 < r < 0.36. BRT scores correlated with the Raven's Progressive Matrices r = 0.59. Correlations with a creativity test in four studies was, as predicted, not statistically significant. The usefulness of the BRT is discussed, along with its limitations, particularly criterion‐related validity and range restrictions with attenuation of correlations.
A Highly Sensitive Surface Electrode for Electrophysiological Monitoring
Authors: Lu Jiang , Li Qianming , Huang Qingyun , Li Dan , Jiao Yiding , Wang Yuanzhen , Li Yiran , Zou Kuangyi , Chen Zilin , Gu Jiayi , Zhang Hanting , Wang Jiacheng , Li Fangyan , Yang Shuo , Ye Tingting , Song Jie , He Er , Zhang Ye
Published: November 2024

Surface electrodes monitoring various electrophysiological activities with high sensitivity are crucial for studying electrical phenomena in living organisms. However, the sensitivity of current surface electrodes is limited due to electron transmission losses and signal attenuation at the electrode‐skin interface. Here, a bicontinuous liquid metal/polymer film electrode is developed, in which up to 92 wt.% of liquid metal is stably immobilized within a 3D continuous polymer network via electrostatic interactions. This electrode facilitates fast electron transport, enhances skin adhesion through hydrogen bonding, and ensures conformal contact due to its flexibility. As a result, the electrode achieves a sensitivity of 20 µV N−1, representing an improvement of 400% over the highest performance reported to date. This leap in sensitivity enables the high‐resolution monitoring of electrophysiological signals, allowing for earlier and more accurate identification of myocardial infarction abnormalities. Moreover, this high‐sensitivity electrode has the potential to develop an intelligent sensory system for material recognition and provide real‐time warnings in hazardous situations for individuals with tactile impairments.
Iron(III) Triflate‐Assisted Skeletal Rearrangement of Warfarin Framework: A Direct Synthetic Route to a Diverse Series of Biorelevant Flavone‐Coumarin Molecular Hybrids
Authors: Bhowmick Anindita , Brahmachari Goutam
Published: November 2024

We herein disclose a new synthetic strategy for a diverse series of biologically interesting flavone‐coumarin molecular hybrids based on iron(III) triflate‐assisted direct and straightforward skeletal rearrangement of warfarin framework upon heating warfarin analogs in N, N‐dimethylformamide (DMF). Good yields, reasonable reaction time, broad substrate scope and tolerance of various functional groups, scalability, and operational simplicity are the key features of this newly developed method.
Bridging Electrolyte Bulk and Interfacial Chemistry: Dynamic Protective Strategy Enable Ultra‐Long Lifespan Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Wu Qing , Zhang Jinlong , Yang Song , Luo Fusheng , Yan Zeyu , Liu Xiude , Xie Haibo , Huang Jun , Chen Yiwang
Published: November 2024

The main bottleneck of rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs) is their limited cycle lifespans stemming from the unhealthy electrolyte bulk and fragile interface, especially in the absence of dynamic protection mechanism between them. To overcome this limitation, benefitting from their synergistic physical and chemical properties, chitin nanocrystals (ChNCs) are employed as superior colloid electrolyte to bridge electrolyte bulk and interfacial chemistry for ultra‐long lifespan AZBs. This unique strategy not only enables continuous optimization of the electrolyte bulk and interfacial chemistry within the battery but also facilitates self‐repairing of mechanical damage both internally and externally, thereby achieving comprehensive, persistent, and dynamic protection. As a result, the modified zinc (Zn) cells present high Zn plating/stripping coulombic efficiencies of 97.71 % ~99.81 % from 5 to 100 mA cm−2, and remarkably service lifespan up to 8,200 h (more than 11 months). Additionally, the Zn//MnO2 full cell exhibits a high capacity retention of 70.1 % after 3,000 cycles at 5 A g−1. This dynamic protective strategy to challenge aqueous Zn chemistry may open up a new avenue for building better AZBs and beyond.
NADH Analogues Enable Metal‐ and Light‐Free Decarboxylative Functionalization
Authors: Liang Lei , Wang Yue‐Hui , Cui Cheng‐Xing , Deng Xiao‐Shan , Wang Song‐Lin , Guo Hai‐Ming , Li Yingzi , Niu Hong‐Ying , Mao Runze
Published: November 2024

Here we report a metal‐ and light‐free decarboxylative functionalization approach enabled by reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) analogues. The efficient and operationally simple approach, conducted in 5 minutes from in situ preparation of aryliodine (III) dicarboxylates under open‐air and ambient conditions, enables diverse bond formation and exhibits a broad substrate scope of over 70 examples. Late‐stage functionalization of drug molecules and natural products further demonstrates the synthetic utility of this method. Combined experimental and computational studies elucidate the mechanistic pathway. These transformations streamline the synthesis of sp3 carbon‐enriched compounds, adding a new dimension to classical decarboxylative reactions.
Ligand‐Tuning Metallic Sites in Molecular Complexes for Efficient Water Oxidation
Authors: Gao Yun , Yang Chengdong , Sun Fenglei , He Daping , Wang Xinqiang , Chen Jian , Zheng Xiaobo , Liu Runcong , Pan Hongge , Wang Dingsheng
Published: November 2024

Metal‐organic hybrid catalysts with highly tunable single‐sites are promising for oxygen‐evolution reaction (OER), but molecular‐scale understanding of underlying reaction mechanisms still remain elusive on these bulk materials. Herein, we report a direct construction of heterogenized molecular complexes stabilized on carbon substrates via coordinating Fe−Ni sites with four aromatic carboxylate ligands (FeNi‐Lx). The ligands‐tuning π‐π stacking interaction between aromatic carboxylate ligands and carbon supports promote the oxidative charge accumulation on Fe−Ni sites via fast electron transferring, thus the optimized FeNi‐Lx rendering a mass activity of 6680 A gFe/Ni−1 at 0.3 V overpotential. In situ characteristics and theoretical analysis demonstrate that the OH− nucleophilic attack on hypervalent iron sites induce the reconstruction of active Fe−O−Ni species, accompanying with fast valence increasing. Whereas, during OER, the unexpected valence reduction of Fe−O−Ni sites would be attributed to the oxygen‐generating from OOH* intermediates. These findings would establish an essential understanding of the origin of active centers in molecular complexes catalysts for oxygen‐evolution.
Flux Synthesis of Robust Polyimide Covalent Organic Frameworks with High‐Density Redox Sites for Efficient Proton Batteries
Authors: Yang Yi , Wang Sa , Duan Yuqing , Wang Ting , Wang Fengdong , Zhu Haitao , Wang Zhifang , Zhang Kai , Cheng Peng , Zhang Zhenjie
Published: November 2024

Aqueous proton batteries are attracting increasing attention in the large‐scale next‐generation energy storage field. However, the electrode materials for proton batteries often suffer from low specific capacity and unsatisfactory cycle durability. Herein, we synthesize two highly crystalline and robust polyimide covalent organic frameworks (COFs) through a solvent‐free flux synthesis approach with benzoic acid as a flux and catalyst. The as‐synthesized COFs possess enriched redox‐active sites for proton storage and intrinsic Grotthuss proton conduction, rendering them ideal candidates for proton electrode materials. The optimal COF electrodes achieve a high specific capacity of 180 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g, among the highest COF‐based proton batteries, and exhibit an outstanding rate capability of up to 100 A/g and long‐term cycling stability with capacity retention of 99 % after 5000 cycles at 5 A/g. The assembled full cells deliver a specific capacity of 150 mAh/g at 0.2 A/g with a maximum energy density of 72 Wh/kg and a maximum supercapacitor‐level power density of 64 kW/kg, surpassing all reported COF‐based systems. This work paves a new avenue for the design of electrode materials for aqueous proton batteries with high energy density, power density, rate capability and long‐term cycling stability.
Counterions Determine if Metal‐Organic Cages Convert SO2 to Sulfate or Reversibly Adsorb It
Authors: Percástegui Edmundo G. , Sánchez‐González Elí , de Jesús Valencia‐Loza Sergio , Cruz‐Nava Sofía , Jancik Vojtech , Martínez‐Otero Diego
Published: November 2024

The continuous emission of harmful gases into the atmosphere damages the environment, air quality, and public health worldwide. To mitigate their impact, materials that capture and chemically inactivate gases are required; however, integrating and precisely controlling both abilities within a single material remains challenging. Herein, we demonstrate for the first time that switching between SO2‐physisorption and chemisorption is possible for porous materials by using different counterions, as illustrated with a series of Pd6L8 Metal‐Organic Cages (MOCs). Pd‐MOCs bearing BF4−, PF6−, or SO42− expressed reversible adsorption (up to 3.6 mmol g−1), cyclability, and SO2/CO2 selectivity. NO3− promoted conversion of SO2 to sulfate, as corroborated with M6L8 cages built on Co(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) ions. Noteworthy, the nitrate derivative of Pd6L8 captures 6.0 mmol g−1 of SO2, cleanly transforms it to SO42− within its cavity in 94 % yield at room temperature, it is quantitatively regenerated, and tolerates humid SO2; such qualities are unprecedented for SO2 adsorbents. The deliberate use of counterions for modulating adsorption could be applied to charged MOFs, COFs, or POCs, potentially leading to the development of new reactivity or catalysis pathways for advanced applications against contaminant gases.
Unraveling the Multifunctional Mechanism of Fluoroethylene Carbonate in Enhancing High‐Performance Room‐Temperature Sodium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Weng Shixiao , Liu Yang , Lu Suwan , Xu Jingjing , Xue Jiangyan , Tu Haifeng , Wang Zhicheng , Liu Lingwang , Gao Yiwen , Sun Guochao , Li Hong , Wu Xiaodong
Published: November 2024

Room‐temperature sodium‐sulfur (RT Na−S) batteries has attracted growing attentions in large‐scale energy storage technology, while the serious shuttle effect and interface side reaction limit its practical application. Despite fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) has been widely used as an electrolyte additive or co‐solvent to facilitate the optimization of electrode‐electrolyte interphase in RT Na−S batteries, its crucial influence and mechanism have not been clearly understood. Herein, we deeply reveal the two‐steps cathode‐electrolyte interphase (CEI) formation by using FEC as the exclusive electrolyte solvent. The results demonstrate that FEC participates in both rapid nucleophilic reaction and electrochemical decomposition on cathode, which can effectively in situ construct a unique “chocolate‐cookie” shaped CEI consisted of NaF‐rich double layers. This CEI eliminates the shuttle effect and ensures the solid‐solid conversion of sulfur. Along with the stable F‐rich solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) formed on the Na anode, the RT Na−S battery delivers an impressive performance (456 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles at 0.5 C) with almost 100 % Coulombic efficiency. This significantly simplifies electrolyte design and provides valuable insights into the application of FEC in practical Na−S batteries.
Set‐membership state estimation for complex networks with chance constraints under multi‐modal deception attacks
Authors: Shi Miaomiao , Hu Chen , Guo Jian , Ma Lifeng , Yi Xiaojian
Published: November 2024

This paper focuses on the state estimation issue for a type of complex networks (CNs) subject to cyberattacks. A multi‐modal deception attack (MMDA) model is introduced, in which different deception attack tactics target distinct sensor nodes randomly when signals are transported throughout the network to the filter. The objective is to propose design a proportional‐integral observer (PIO), ensuring that estimation errors at each single nodes are contained, with a chance not lower than a predefined value, inside certain pre‐specified ellipsoidal bounds. Sufficient conditions for the feasibility of the mentioned filtering technique are established using convex optimization techniques. The required observer parameters are subsequently determined by resolving the relevant matrix inequalities at each time step. Within the provided framework, two sub‐optimization problems are formulated to identify locally optimal estimation performance. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed paradigm is shown via a numerical simulation example.
Feasibility of low‐power low‐resolution laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy for quantification of Mg in fermented soybean pastes
Authors: Jung Hyemin , Oh Yujin , Kwon Minji , Choi Hanbeom , Kim Hyang , Kumar Sandeep , Han Song‐Hee , Kim Hojin , Kim Haejin , Nam Sang‐Ho , Lee Yonghoon
Published: November 2024

This study explores the use of a cost‐effective laser‐induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) instrument for analyzing magnesium (Mg) in fermented soybean pastes. Composed of soybeans and salts, these pastes are rich in proteins and minerals. A low‐power diode‐pumped solid‐state laser and a miniature low‐resolution spectrometer were used to analyze nine products, with Mg concentrations previously determined via inductively‐coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy. The LIBS spectra showed Mg II and Mg I emission peaks at 279.8 and 285.2 nm, respectively, used to create univariate calibration models. Additionally, a partial‐least‐squares regression (PLS‐R) model showed superior accuracy. Mg concentrations correlated with the types of salts used. The study demonstrates the feasibility of using real products as calibration standards for LIBS, supported by other methods. The compact, low‐cost LIBS instrument offers an alternative for quantitative mineral analysis and raw material identification in fermented soybean pastes.
Identification of a Nuclear Localization Signal (NLS) in Human Transcription Elongation Factor ELL2
Authors: Kohrt Stephan , Baheerathan Abarna , Prokscha Jonas , Zwosta Alexandra , Sticht Heinrich , Thoma‐Kress Andrea K.
Published: November 2024

ELL2 is a transcription elongation factor suppressing transcriptional pausing of RNA polymerase II, thereby enhancing gene expression. In accordance with the nuclear localization of ELL2, the protein is supposed to carry out its function in promoting transcription in the nucleus. Yet, it is unknown whether ELL2 carries a nuclear localization signal (NLS). In this study, we identify the NLS of ELL2. In silico analysis resulted in prediction of a strong bipartite NLS with an exceptionally high score at amino acids 311–338 in the conserved region R1 of ELL2. Confocal laser scanning microscopy of a series of ELL2 truncation mutants and quantitative analysis of images verified the presence of R1 to be decisive for nuclear localization of ELL2 suggesting that the predicted NLS is accurate. Deletion of key basic amino acids within the putative NLS in silico and in vitro showed that K319, R320, and K333/K334 are crucial for ELL2's nuclear accumulation, thus confirming the predictions. The isolated ELL2‐NLS was able to translocate an unrelated NLS‐mapping system into the nucleus underlining the strength of the NLS. Taken together, we identified the NLS of ELL2 and mapped individual aa that are crucial for nuclear localization of ELL2.
Physical, nutritional, and bioactive components, in vitro starch digestibility, and textural and organoleptic properties of Beyşehir tarhana with various oleaster parts
Authors: Şahin Nazlı , Cingöz Ali , Sayaslan Abdulvahit
Published: November 2024

Background and Objective

This study has three main objectives: (1) to analyze the physical and nutritional properties, bioactive component concentrations, and in vitro digestibility of Beyşehir tarhana containing different parts of oleaster; (2) to investigate the effect of incorporating oleaster on textural properties; and (3) to evaluate the influence of the different parts of oleaster on the organoleptic characteristics of Beyşehir tarhana.

Findings

The control tarhana showed higher L* and b* values, while tarhana samples with various oleaster parts exhibited the highest a* value (p < .05). Incorporating oleaster components led to significant alterations in protein, ash, fat, dietary fiber, in vitro starch digestibility, total phenolic substance, antioxidant capacity, and the texture and organoleptic properties of Beyşehir tarhana compared to the control (p < .05).

Conclusions

The production of Beyşehir tarhana containing different parts of oleaster components led to highly encouraging outcomes, presenting an exciting opportunity for its future production.

Significance and Novelty

Beyşehir tarhana differs from traditional tarhana as it undergoes a less extensive fermentation process. It can be consumed as is, or after frying or baking. The addition of different ingredients is crucial due to the limited fermentation and frying processes.
Versatile, Extrudable and Luminescent Tripodal BTA‐Terpyridine (tpy) Gel Cross‐Linked with d‐ and f‐Block Metal Ions
Authors: Gudmundsson Tómas A. , Kotova Oxana , Barwich Sebastian , Möbius Matthias E. , Gunnlaugsson Thorfinnur
Published: November 2024

The low molecular weight gelator (LMWG) 1 based on the tripodal benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxamide (BTA) motif, capped with terpyridine (tpy) units, was shown to form supramolecular gels with versatile functionalities such as self‐healing, while the cross‐linking of its fibers with d‐ and f‐block metal ions led to modified photophysical properties, the obtained gels were additionally capable of extrusion.
Diastereoselective Synthesis of N‐Heterocycle Substituted Cyclobutanes via Michael Addition onto Cyclobutenes
Authors: Robert Emma G. L. , Waser Jerome
Published: November 2024

Herein, we present a method for the diastereoselective synthesis of N‐heterocycle‐substituted cyclobutanes from commercially available bromocyclobutanes. This method enables the efficient formation of various heterocyclic aminocyclobutane esters and amides using simple reagents. Notably, N‐nucleophiles such as imidazoles, azoles, and nucleobase derivatives were successfully incorporated, enhancing the chemical diversity of small ring building blocks for medicinal chemistry applications.
Rose essential oils: Current trends, mapping of extraction techniques, chemical analysis, therapeutic applications, and by‐product valorization
Authors: He Aimin , Putra Nicky Rahmana
Published: November 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent advancements in the extraction, chemical analysis, therapeutic applications, and valorization of by‐products from rose essential oils, with a focus on emerging trends and technologies. Traditional extraction methods, such as hydrodistillation and steam distillation, are compared with modern techniques, including supercritical CO2 extraction (SFE), ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE), and microwave‐assisted extraction (MAE). These modern techniques offer improved efficiency, yield, and sustainability, while preserving the chemical integrity of bioactive compounds. Influential extraction parameters, such as temperature, pressure, and extraction time, are analyzed to highlight their impact on yield and chemical composition. Special attention is given to the valorization of rose by‐products, which show potential for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industry applications. Studies demonstrate the promising antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti‐cancer activities of rose by‐products. The growing demand for sustainable extraction methods and high‐quality natural products highlights the importance of optimizing these technologies. This review also discusses future research directions in the field of rose essential oils, focusing on the integration of advanced extraction methods and the development of value‐added products.
Electrochemical Deposition of Silver Nanoparticle Assemblies on Carbon Ultramicroelectrode Arrays
Authors: Weber Courtney J. , Strom Natalie E. , Vagnoni Emma M. , Simoska Olja
Published: November 2024

Silver nanoparticle (AgNP) assemblies combined with electrode surfaces have a myriad of applications in electrochemical energy storage and conversion devices, (bio)sensor development, and electrocatalysis. Among various nanoparticle synthesis methods, electrochemical deposition is advantageous due to its ability to control experimental parameters, enabling the formation of low‐nanoscale (<50 nm) particles with narrow size distributions. Herein, we report the electrodeposition of AgNPs on a unique electrode platform based on carbon ultramicroelectrode arrays (CUAs), exploring several experimental variables including potential, time, and silver ion concentration. Extensive scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed that more reductive deposition potentials resulted in higher counts of smaller‐sized AgNPs. While previous studies have employed planar, macro‐sized electrodes with millimolar silver ion concentrations and minute‐long times for AgNP electrodeposition, our results demonstrate that lower Ag+ concentrations (50–100 μM) and shorter deposition times (15–30 s) are sufficient for successful AgNP formation on CUAs. These findings are attributed to enhanced mass transfer from the radial diffusion of the array‐based CUAs. The quantity of deposited Ag was determined to be 1100±200 nmol cm−2, consistent with AgNP‐modified CUA electrocatalytic activity for hydrogen peroxide reduction. This study emphasizes the importance of carefully considering AgNP electrodeposition parameters on unconventional electrode surfaces.
Discovering Severe Adverse Reactions From Pharmacokinetic Drug–Drug Interactions Through Literature Analysis and Electronic Health Record Verification
Authors: Jeong Eugene , Su Yu , Li Lang , Chen You
Published: November 2024

While drug–drug interactions (DDIs) and their pharmacokinetic (PK) mechanisms are well‐studied prior to drug approval, severe adverse drug reactions (SADRs) caused by DDIs often remain underrecognized due to limitations in pre‐marketing clinical trials. To address this gap, our study utilized a literature database, applied natural language processing (NLP) techniques, and conducted multi‐source electronic health record (EHR) validation to uncover underrecognized DDI‐SADR signals that warrant further investigation. PubMed abstracts related to DDIs from January 1962 to December 2023 were retrieved. We utilized PubTator Central for Named Entity Recognition (NER) to identify drugs and SADRs and employed SciFive for Relation Extraction (RE) to extract DDI‐SADR signals. The extracted signals were cross‐referenced with the DrugBank database and validated using logistic regression, considering risk factors including patient demographics, drug usage, and comorbidities, based on EHRs from Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and the All of Us research program. From 160,321 abstracts, we identified 111 DDI‐SADR signals. Seventeen were statistically significant (13 by one EHR and 4 by both EHR databases), with 9 being previously not recorded in the DrugBank. These included methadone‐ciprofloxacin‐respiratory depression, oxycodone‐fluvoxamine‐clonus, tramadol‐fluconazole‐hallucination, simvastatin‐fluconazole‐rhabdomyolysis, ibrutinib‐amiodarone‐atrial fibrillation, fentanyl‐diltiazem‐delirium, clarithromycin‐voriconazole‐acute kidney injury, colchicine‐cyclosporine‐rhabdomyolysis, and methadone‐voriconazole‐arrhythmia (odds ratios (ORs) ranged from 1.9 to 35.83, with P‐values ranging from < 0.001 to 0.017). Utilizing NLP to extract DDI‐SADRs from Biomedical Literature and validating these findings through multiple‐source EHRs represents a pioneering approach in pharmacovigilance. This method uncovers clinically relevant SADRs resulting from DDIs that were not evident in pre‐marketing trials or the existing DDI knowledge base.
Metal‐organic Framework‐derived NiO/ZnO Composites for Photoelectrocatalytic Reduction of Cr(VI)
Authors: Zhang Huayu , Nan Jiejie , Ning Xiaoting , Hu Lianjiang , Shao Qian , Zhang Jing , El‐Bahy Zeinhom M. , Qiu Hua , Ibrahim Mohamed M. , Mersal Gaber A. M. , Ge Ruixiang , Guo Zhanhu
Published: November 2024

Ni/Zn‐MOF composites with photoelectrocatalytic (PEC) performance for Cr(VI) reduction were prepared via hydrothermal method and calcinating method. The as‐prepared NiO/ZnO composites exhibited uniform morphology. When being subjected to an external voltage of 0.7 V and irradiated with visible light for 120 min, the NiO/ZnO composite exhibited a Cr (VI) reduction efficiency of almost 100 %, outperforming ZnO and NiO counterparts. The effects of the content of NiO to ZnO and different calcination temperatures on PEC performance were also investigated. Additionally, elimination experiments results indicated that photo‐generated electrons (e−) play a crucial role in the catalytic reduction of Cr(VI). The notable enhancement in the photoelectrocatalytic performance can be credited to the applied bias voltage and the formation of a p‐n heterojunction between NiO and ZnO. Consequently, the NiO/ZnO nanocomposites exhibit significant potential for the PEC reduction of Cr(VI). This capability underscores the promise of NiO/ZnO nanocomposites for applications in the photoelectrocatalytic reduction of Cr(VI) and related environmental remediation processes.
Tailoring N and S Heteroatoms Through Rational Design in Carbon Nanotubes‐Graphene Composites for Enhanced Zn‐Air Battery Performance
Authors: Béjar José , De‐la‐Fuente Valerio Omar , Ramos‐Castillo Carlos M. , Aguilar‐Elguezabal Alfredo , Guerra‐Balcázar Minerva , Rebolledo‐Chávez Juan Pablo F. , Arjona Noé , Álvarez‐Contreras Lorena
Published: November 2024

Cathodic materials significantly influence the performance, durability, and sustainability of primary zinc‐air batteries (ZABs). This study focuses on the rational design of highly active metal‐free composites by tailoring the content of N and S heteroatoms in carbon nanotube‐graphene (CNTG) composites. The oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) tests showed onset potentials (Eo) of 0.88 V (N‐CNT) and 0.89 V (N‐graphene) for individual materials and 0.92 V for the N‐CNTG composite, highlighting the advantage of using a composite materialThe N content varied with dicyandiamide and urea, displaying changes in the surface area and N content (7.09 vs. 5.30 at. %), and in pyridinic and quaternary N species. The N content varied with dicyandiamide and urea, showing changes in the surface area and N content (7.09 vs. 5.30 at. %), and in pyridinic and quaternary N species. The abundance of pyridinic‐N species in N‐CNTG using urea enabled a higher ORR activity (Eo=0.92 V). The S incorporation through thiourea improved the Eo to 0.94 V (Pt/C=1.03 V). And, the combination of urea and thiourea resulted in a highly active and durable N,S‐CNTG material, displaying a Eo of 0.96 V, and an activity loss of 8.7 % (Pt/C=25.4 %) after 2000 cycles. In ZAB mode, this material displayed a voltage of 1.35 V, a power density of 107 mW cm−2, and a specific capacity of 1060 mA h g−1.
Enhancing Lignin‐Carbohydrate Complexes Production and Properties With Machine Learning
Authors: Diment Daryna , Löfgren Joakim , Alopaeus Marie , Stosiek Matthias , Cho MiJung , Xu Chunlin , Hummel Michael , Rigo Davide , Rinke Patrick , Balakshin Mikhail
Published: November 2024

Lignin‐carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) present a unique opportunity for harnessing the synergy between lignin and carbohydrates for high‐value product development. However, producing LCCs in high yields remains a significant challenge. In this study, we address this challenge with a novel approach for the targeted production of LCCs. We optimized the AquaSolv Omni (AqSO) biorefinery for the synthesis of LCCs with high carbohydrate content (up to 60/100 Ar) and high yields (up to 15 wt %) by employing machine learning (ML). Our method significantly improves the yield of LCCs compared to conventional procedures, such as ball milling and enzymatic hydrolysis. The ML approach was pivotal in tuning the biorefinery to achieve the best performance with a limited number of experimental trials. Specifically, we utilized Bayesian Optimization to iteratively gather data and examine the effects of key processing conditions–temperature, process severity, and liquid‐to‐solid ratio–on yield and carbohydrate content. Through Pareto front analysis, we identified optimal trade‐offs between LCC yield and carbohydrate content, discovering extensive regions of processing conditions that produce LCCs with yields of 8–15 wt % and carbohydrate contents ranging from 10–40/100 Ar. To assess the potential of these LCCs for high‐value applications, we measured their glass transition temperature (Tg), surface tension, and antioxidant activity. Notably, we found that LCCs with high carbohydrate content generally exhibit low Tg and surface tension. Our biorefinery concept, augmented by ML‐guided optimization, represents a significant step toward scalable production of LCCs with tailored properties.