bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct neuroinflammatory patterns between cerebral microbleeds and microinfarcts in cerebral amyloid angiopathy
Authors: Puy Laurent , Barus Romain , Pasi Marco , Pétrault Maud , Deramecourt Vincent , Cordonnier Charlotte , Bérézowski Vincent
Published: November 2024

In this neuropathological study, we investigated neuroinflammation surrounding recent and old cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and cerebral microinfarcts (CMIs) in 18 cases of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). We used several serial stainings and immunolabellings to identify microvascular lesions, define their recent or old stage, and characterize neuroinflammatory response (scavenging activity and astrogliosis). We found that both CMBs and CMIs induce a neuroinflammatory response, which was more pronounced in old lesion than recent. Astrogliosis and scavenging activity were differentially prominent according to the ischemic/hemorrhagic nature of the lesion. Our findings provide insights into the pathophysiology of microvascular injuries in CAA.
Influence of Cooling Rate on Primary Silicon Size in Hypereutectic Al–Si Alloy Fabricated by Laser Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Tisha Layla Shams , Knoop Daniel , Ellendt Nils , Toenjes Anastasiya
Published: November 2024

Herein, the effects of cooling rate on primary silicon (Si) phases in laser powder bed fusion (PBF‐LB/M) processed hypereutectic Al–Si alloy are investigated. These alloys are particularly in demand for automotive and electronic applications, thanks to their excellent wear and thermal properties. Nevertheless, when processed by conventional methods like casting with comparatively lower cooling rates, the coarse primary Si phases are responsible for increasing brittleness and inducing crack propagation. The refinement of the primary silicon phases is aimed to be achieved through the PBF‐LB/M process, which offers a high cooling rate. The primary Si phases are observed under three different thermal substrate plate conditions—untempered, with cooling and heating, and additionally with varying volume energy density. Furthermore, the impact of primary Si size on the hardness of the fabricated samples is evaluated. The findings show that a faster cooling rate has a notable effect on refining the primary Si size. Then, hardness is directly affected by the primary Si size, with larger Si resulting in decreased hardness.
Optimizing Sodium Ion Adsorption Through Robust d–d Orbital Modulation for Efficient Capacitive Deionization
Authors: Yu Muran , Li Daqing , Sui Guozhe , Guo Dongxuan , Chu Dawei , Li Yue , Chai Dong‐Feng , Li Jinlong
Published: November 2024

Unraveling the fundamental mechanisms of sodium ion adsorption behavior is crucial for guiding the design of electrode materials and enhancing the performance of capacitive deionization systems. Herein, the optimization of sodium ion adsorption is systematically investigated through the robust d–d orbital interactions within zinc‐doped iron carbide, facilitated by a novel liquid nitrogen quenching treatment. Liquid nitrogen quenching treatment can enhance the coordination number, strengthen d–d orbital interactions, promote electron transfer, and shift the d‐band center of Fe closer to the Fermi level, thereby enhancing sodium ions adsorption energy. Consequently, the obtained electrode material achieves a superior gravimetric adsorption capacity of 121.1 mg g−1 and attractive cyclic durability. The adsorption capacity is highly competitive compared to the vast majority of related research works in the field of capacitive deionization. Furthermore, sodium ion adsorption/desorption mechanisms are substantiated through ex situ techniques, revealing dynamic atomic and electronic structure evolutions under operational conditions. This work demonstrates that optimizing sodium ion adsorption via robust d–d orbital modulation enabled by liquid nitrogen quenching treatment is an effective approach for developing efficient capacitive deionization electrode materials.
Construction and 3D Printing of Multiscale Silk Fiber‐Cellulose Composite Networks Based on Ionic Liquids
Authors: Zou Chenglong , Lv Jiayi , Zhu Kai , Jiao Yidan , Rong Jinyun , Zhang Wenzhe , He Xiyang , Pan Qizhu , Zhang Xiucheng , Hua Xin , Liu Bing
Published: November 2024

Microscopic defects in the amorphous regions of natural cellulose affect the mechanical properties of their materials. After dissolution and regeneration, cellulose's mechanical properties are still insufficient for application in advanced materials. Conventional compounding and crosslinking techniques with toxic crosslinking agents are not only cumbersome, but also have limited performance enhancement in cellulose materials Therefore, much attention has been paid to designing and developing more straightforward and efficient cellulose reinforcement technologies. Herein, an in situ multiscalarization strategy is used to form multiscale silk fiber‐cellulose composites (MS‐C) by the gradual nanosizing of silk fibers (SF) under heating in a 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium chloride solution of cellulose (Cel‐BmimCl). MS‐C are constructed from micro and nano SF, fibroin chains, and cellulose molecules into a multidimensional network. Due to its advantage of multiscale structure, MS‐C has excellent mechanical properties, the tensile strength and Young's modulus, which are 123.06% and 91.68% higher than that of pure regenerated cellulose after 5h heating treatment. Besides, MS‐C has good biocompatibility and can be molded or 3D printed with direct ink writing, showing broad application prospects in medical, bioengineering, and other fields. This multiscale enhancement strategy can also be extended to the research and application of biopolymers such as natural polysaccharides or proteins.
Transient Optical Modulation in Vanadium and Selenium Doped MoS2 by Carrier–Carrier and Carrier–Phonon Interactions
Authors: Upadhyay Bhuvan , Maity Dipak , Anil Sreekant , Narayanan Tharangattu N. , Pal Suman Kalyan
Published: November 2024

Doping and alloying induce defect states in atomically thin transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs), leading to strong carrier–phonon interactions. The robust excitonic behavior of these layered materials can be modified by injecting a high density of charge carriers. However, comprehending the influence of carrier–phonon and carrier–carrier interactions on the optical properties of 2D materials is crucial for their optoelectronic and photonic applications. Here, transient absorption (TA) spectroscopy is employed to demonstrate the modulation of the transient optical behavior of TMDCs through doping and excitation near Mott density. The TA spectra reveal broadening attributed to carrier–carrier and carrier–phonon interactions, with the broadening being particularly pronounced in vanadium (V) doped TMDCs due to the hybridization of defect and exciton transitions. Analysis of TA kinetics suggests the involvement of various carrier species in the carrier dynamics of TMDCs, with the influence of mid‐gap carriers dominating at higher excitation densities. Nonetheless, the presence of strong carrier–phonon coupling in V‐doped TMDCs is demonstrated by temperature‐dependent Raman and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The results reveal that the enhanced coupling between acoustic phonons and carriers can lead to multiphonon emission. The findings of this study hold promise for controlling the optical response of TMDCs in ultrafast optoelectronic applications.
Highly Elastic Full Hydrocarbon Ultralong RTP Polymers with Visible Light Excitable S0→T1 Population
Authors: Liu Guanyu , Zhang Shiguo , Chen Junwu , Xue Shanfeng , Sun Qikun , Yang Wenjun
Published: November 2024

Highly elastic ultralong organic room temperature phosphorescence (RTP) polymers are highly desired in wearable optoelectronic fields, but they are hardly realized in rubbers since chain segment motions deactivate triplet excitons. In the current work, it is revealed that polystyrene (PS) can inhibit triplet thermal deactivation of coronene (Cor), and it is the serious oxygen diffusion and quenching that disables RTP emission of Cor/polymers. In view of oxygen barrier function of rubbers, PS−polyisoprene−PS tri‐block elastomers (SIS) are used as Cor's doping matrices. The results show that Cor/SIS sheets show bright and ultralong afterglow with RTP lifetime up to 3.64 s in air after brief 365 nm light excitation. More impressively, Cor/SIS and its red fluorescent dye doped sheets all exhibit ultralong room temperature afterglow under large dynamic elastic deformation. Further, all these sheets exhibit long‐wave blue light excited afterglow despite Cor/SIS having no visible light absorption band, and the unique photoexcitation and emission mechanism is verified. This work not only provides the development strategy of the latest elastic RTP materials, but also will evoke a fresh understanding on organic doped RTP polymers.
Oxygen Vacancy Sites Enable Efficient Photocatalytic Oxidation of Nitric Oxide: The Role of W/Mo Valence Transition in Bi2W(Mo)O6‐x
Authors: Yang Chaoyang , Zhang Junlei , Yu Guojia , Zhu Mingshan , Ravi Sai Kishore
Published: November 2024

Oxygen vacancy (Ov) sites play a critical role in the activation and deep oxidation of nitric oxide (NO). However, controlling the concentration and type of Ov remains a significant challenge. In this study, Bi2W(Mo)O6‐x is investigated as a model system and demonstrates that increasing the concentration of Ov substantially enhances the efficiency of air NO removal. Increasing the Ov concentrations in Bi2WO6‐x and Bi2MoO6‐x improves NO removal efficiency ≈12‐ and 11‐fold, respectively, compared to their low‐Ov counterparts. This enhancement is attributed to improved adsorption and activation of NO/O2 molecules, better separation and transfer of photogenerated carriers, and increased visible light absorption. Notably, Bi2WO6‐x remains highly stable over ten recycling tests for continuous air NO deep photooxidation, while Bi2MoO6‐x shows a 43.5% decrease in efficiency after ten runs. This sustained performance is attributed to stable Ovs without changes in metal ion valence, unlike Bi2MoO6‐x, where instability arises from the reduction of Mo6+ to Mo4+. In situ DRIFTS reveals possible pathways for the deep photooxidation of NO to nitrate (NO3−). This study provides valuable insights into designing high‐performance, durable catalysts by effectively controlling Ov concentration and type, paving the way for efficient photocatalytic air purification technologies.
Virtual screening of plant‐derived molecules against zinc‐dependent imipenemases in class B metallo‐β‐lactamases of Acinetobacter baumannii
Authors: Gopikrishnan Mohanraj , Doss C George Priya
Published: November 2024

Metallo‐β‐lactamases (MBLs), enzymes of class B, employ zinc ions to degrade β‐lactam antibiotics such as penicillins, cephalosporins, carbapenems, and cephamycins. Carbapenem‐resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) is linked to the existence of carbapenemase enzymes such as oxacillinase and MBL. The most prevalent resistance mechanisms include imipenemases (IMP), verona integron‐encoded MBL, and New Delhi MBL‐1. The effectiveness of current antibiotics against the MBL enzyme is limited due to the presence of metal ions, underscoring the need for new antimicrobial agents. Recent research has demonstrated that natural compounds can effectively inhibit MBL. This study aims to screen natural phytochemicals against IMP‐2 MBL using in silico virtual screening techniques via AutoDock Vina and molecular dynamic simulations with GROMACS for 200 ns, followed by molecular mechanics/Poisson‒Boltzmann surface area analysis. This procedure identified new lead molecules against A. baumannii that produce IMP. A total of 588 natural compounds were screened against IMP, along with the imipenem substrate and known inhibitors of L‐captopril. The top four compounds, N025‐0038 (NC1), N062‐0008 (NC2), eupalitin, and Rosmorinic acid, demonstrated binding affinities of ‒8.5, ‒8.4, ‒7.5, and ‒7.2 kcal/mol, respectively. The structural stability of these complexes was observed to be maintained throughout the simulation in a dynamic environment, as determined by molecular dynamics trajectory analysis, and all these compounds met the SWISS‐ADME (adsorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) properties. NC1 and NC2 compounds are considered potential drug molecules against IMP. However, while these selected compounds showed superior binding energy in computational analysis, further in vitro analysis is required to establish an effective drug regimen against A. baumannii that produces IMP.
Staying Too Late at the Table: Retiring CEOs Should Not Remain on the Board
Authors: Santora Joseph C.
Published: November 2024

Dr. Joseph C. Santora is the founder of TST, Inc., a management consulting company, editor of the International Leadership Journal, and an executive educator. In this article, he explores the rationale for former CEOs not to assume the board chair position.
Digital transformation, environmental regulation and enterprises' ESG performance: Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Jie
Published: November 2024

Company's digital transformation and Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance are crucial for their development, but there is little literature that considers whether and how digital transformation improve ESG performance, the impact of environmental regulations is also easily overlooked, we attempt to fill this gap. Based on data related to Chinese listed enterprises from 2011 to 2020, we focus on the internal digital transformation of enterprises, analyze and empirically test the direct and mediating influence of digital transformation on enterprises' ESG performance, as well as the moderating effect of external environmental regulations. The results show that digital transformation improves ESG performance. Heterogeneity analysis found that digital transformation had different impacts on different dimensions of enterprise ESG performance. Further analysis indicates that enterprises' green innovation and labor demand play a mediating role in the relationship between enterprises' digital transformation and ESG performance. Regional formal environmental regulation and informal environmental regulation moderates the path of firms' digital transformation promoting green innovation level to enhance ESG performance. This paper provides micro evidence in China for exploring the improvement of enterprises' ESG performance and provides relevant ideas for understanding the effect of digital transformation.
Differences in Immune Cell‐Derived Circular RNA Between Fulminant Type 1 Diabetes and Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Yin Wenfeng , Luo Shuoming , Qiu Junlin , Xiao Zilin , Zhang Ziwei , Wang Rui , Xie Zhiguo , Li Xia , Zhou Zhiguang
Published: November 2024

Aims

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are associated with fulminant type 1 diabetes (FT1D) and type 1 diabetes (T1D). However, the differences in circRNAs between FT1D and T1D remain unclear. Our objective is to identify peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs)‐derived circRNAs in FT1D and T1D and explore their potential functions.

Materials and methods

PBMCs were extracted from six patients with FT1D and age‐, sex‐, and duration‐matched T1D patients. The Arraystar Human circRNA Array was utilised to obtain circRNA expression profiles. Seven aberrantly expressed circRNAs were selected for determining expression levels in another independent cohort (FT1D subjects n = 35, T1D subjects n = 70, and controls n = 100) using real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR). Biological functions, circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA networks, and the coding potential of circRNAs were predicted through bioinformatics analysis.

Results

In total, 145 differentially expressed circRNAs were identified in FT1D and T1D, with 63 upregulated and 82 downregulated circRNAs. Hsa_circRNA_038288, hsa_circRNA_104405, and hsa_circRNA_405498 were successfully validated among the 7 aberrantly expressed circRNAs selected to determine expression levels. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that majority of the parent genes of circRNAs are enriched in signalling pathways such as RNA transport, ubiquitin‐mediated proteolysis, and focal adhesion. Hsa_circRNA_038288 appears to play a role in 51 circRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA signalling pathways associated with immune regulation and diabetes. Additionally, hsa_circRNA_038288 potentially exhibits coding potential and is involved in the progression of both FT1D and T1D.

Conclusions

Significant differences in immune cell‐derived circRNAs were found between FT1D and T1D patients, offering novel insights into the molecular mechanisms that distinguish FT1D from T1D.
Metabolic abnormalities and reprogramming in cats with naturally occurring hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Li Qinghong , Homilius Max , Achilles Erin , Massey Laura K. , Convey Victoria , Ohlsson Åsa , Ljungvall Ingrid , Häggström Jens , Boler Brittany Vester , Steiner Pascal , Day Sharlene , MacRae Calum A. , Oyama Mark A.
Published: November 2024

Background and aims

The heart is a metabolic organ rich in mitochondria. The failing heart reprograms to utilize different energy substrates, which increase its oxygen consumption. These adaptive changes contribute to increased oxidative stress. Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a common heart condition, affecting approximately 15% of the general cat population. Feline HCM shares phenotypical and genotypical similarities with human HCM, but the disease mechanisms for both species are incompletely understood. Our goal was to characterize global changes in metabolome between healthy control cats and cats with different stages of HCM.

Methods

Serum samples from 83 cats, the majority (70/83) of which were domestic shorthair and included 23 healthy control cats, 31 and 12 preclinical cats with American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) stages B1 and B2, respectively, and 17 cats with history of clinical heart failure or arterial thromboembolism (ACVIM stage C), were collected for untargeted metabolomic analysis. Multiple linear regression adjusted for age, sex and body weight was applied to compare between control and across HCM groups.

Results

Our study identified 1253 metabolites, of which 983 metabolites had known identities. Statistical analysis identified 167 metabolites that were significantly different among groups (adjusted P < 0.1). About half of the differentially identified metabolites were lipids, including glycerophospholipids, sphingolipids and cholesterol. Serum concentrations of free fatty acids, 3‐hydroxy fatty acids and acylcarnitines were increased in HCM groups compared with control group. The levels of creatine phosphate and multiple Krebs cycle intermediates, including succinate, aconitate and α‐ketoglutarate, also accumulated in the circulation of HCM cats. In addition, serum levels of nicotinamide and tryptophan, precursors for de novo NAD+ biosynthesis, were reduced in HCM groups versus control group. Glutathione metabolism was altered. Serum levels of cystine, the oxidized form of cysteine and cysteine‐glutathione disulfide, were elevated in the HCM groups, indicative of heightened oxidative stress. Further, the level of ophthalmate, an endogenous glutathione analog and competitive inhibitor, was increased by more than twofold in HCM groups versus control group. Finally, several uremic toxins, including guanidino compounds and protein bound putrescine, accumulated in the circulation of HCM cats.

Conclusions

Our study provided evidence of deranged energy metabolism, altered glutathione homeostasis and impaired renal uremic toxin excretion. Altered lipid metabolism suggested perturbed structure and function of cardiac sarcolemma membrane and lipid signalling.
Solar Powered Electric Vehicle Charging Station With Integrated Battery Storage System
Authors: Shukla Aradhana , Shukla Harisharanam , Yadav Satish Kumar , Singh Jyotsna , Singh Rajendra Bahadur
Published: November 2024

The shift towards electrical vehicles (EVs) can be an important alternative to internal combustion engines for sustainable energy solutions. However, increased EV adoption will increase the charging demand, and there will be a load on the grid electricity. Integrating solar photovoltaic systems with EV charging infrastructure will not only support environmental goals, but also ensure a more resilient and self‐sufficient energy system. A standalone PV system is a good option to reduce the stress on the grid for charging EVs. This present work pivots on the design and performance assessment of a solar photovoltaic system customized for an electric vehicle charging station in Bangalore, India. For this purpose, we have used the PVsyst software to design and optimize a standalone PV system with battery energy storage for EV charging stations. The result shows that 51.1 kWp PV system will be sufficient to meet the energy demand of the charging station by producing 98 313 kWh array energy. The proposed system showed a good average performance ratio of 68.90%. This study shows that the integration of standalone solar photovoltaic systems with EV charging stations is crucial in India and other countries to alleviate grid stress and promote sustainable energy use. This approach not only supports the transition to cleaner transportation but also enhances energy security and reduces dependency on fossil fuels.
Performance enhancement for a novel cylindrical system Li‐ion battery with MXene‐based dielectric fluid for immersion cooling
Authors: Singh Nilesh Krishnadhari , Sahoo Rashmi Rekha
Published: November 2024

This research looks at the impact of dielectric fluids and fluid speeds on cell temperature control in innovative cylindrical lithium‐ion batteries during high‐rate discharges (C‐rate) using the multiscale multidomain battery model. The goal is to improve the battery thermal management system to increase battery performance, longevity, and safety. The present study includes reducing thermal strains, enhancing efficacy, and forestalling overheating risks across various applications in electrified systems. The assessment focuses on four dielectric fluids—ester, mineral, kerosene, and Novec 7200—flowing at 0.01 m/s to gauge their efficiency in managing cell temperatures. Results demonstrate the criticality of effective thermal management in maintaining optimal battery performance and longevity. Ester oil emerges as the most efficient coolant, maintaining cell temperatures at 305.84 K and showcasing a 44% reduction compared with scenarios without coolant. In contrast, kerosene oil, mineral oil, and Novec 7200 yield temperature reductions of 42.86%, 42.51%, and 43.11%, respectively. Furthermore, combining 1% v/v. MXene nanoparticles with ester oil enhance cooling capabilities, with remarkable cell temperature reductions of 50% at 0.01 m/s velocity. Subsequent increments in flow velocity lead to enhanced cooling effects: at 0.05 and 0.1 m/s, reductions reach 51.89% and 52.155%, escalating to 52.58% and 54% at 0.5 and 1.0 m/s, correspondingly.
How to Teach Creativity When There's No Such Thing as Creativity
Authors: Baer John
Published: November 2024

There is an infinity of realized and potential creative things, creative ideas, and creative performances, and yet there is no such thing as creativity, at least not in the two ways most of us think about creativity. (1) There is no general essence of creativity, no indispensable factor or shared quality that is an intrinsic part of all creative ideas, performances, or products. Creativity and expertise are very different things, but what makes a painting, a scientific theory, or a dance performance creative varies across domains in the same way that what constitutes expertise varies in these different disciplines. (2) And just as learning what a haiku is will not increase one's expertise in cooking or cosmology, developing creative‐thinking skills helpful in writing poetry will not make one a more creative chef or astronomer. Despite these constraints, it has been shown that creativity training can often result in more creative products, ideas, and performances, but primarily when trainers have put aside these two misguided and counter‐productive ways to conceptualize creativity.
Valorization of soybean by‐products for sustainable waste processing with health benefits
Authors: Usman Muhammad , Li Qing , Luo Daozhen , Xing Yongxiu , Dong Dengfeng
Published: November 2024

Soybean is a rapidly growing agricultural crop, fueled by the rising global demand for animal feed, plant‐based proteins and essential nutrients for human consumption. Soybeans contain a wide range of essential nutrients that are vital for health and may play a significant role in disease prevention. Their nutritious composition has led to a diverse range of soy‐based foods and derivatives available on the market. A substantial amount of soybeans is allocated to the animal feed sector, human consumption, nutraceuticals and other industrial applications. Soybean has superior protein quality and digestibility compared to other legumes. It also contains abundant amounts of isoflavones, phytosterols and minerals that augment its nutritional value as a constituent of the human diet. Many different by‐products are produced during the processing of soy. Due to a lack of sustainable food manufacturing practices, a sustainable amount of these by‐products is discarded as waste, posing environmental challenges. Developing an effective waste management system for soybean by‐products can help address public health concerns and provide a cost‐efficient way to repurpose valuable components of soy, such as soy meal, okara and soy whey. Such valorization can mitigate the environmental impact of waste and contribute to malnutrition. This study aims to evaluate the sustainable use of soy by‐products to help preserve biodiversity and reduce food insecurity. This article thoroughly examines the fundamental components of soybean use in the fields of health and soybean by‐product processing. It provides a summary of cost‐efficient, feasible and ideal processing technologies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Effect of Grasses on Native Tree Seedling Establishment Along a Water Stress Gradient: Results of Forest and Greenhouse Experiments
Authors: Trinco Fabio Daniel , Rusch Verónica Elena , Cardozo Andrea , Garibaldi Lucas Alejandro , Tittonell Pablo Adrián
Published: November 2024

Anthropogenic activities such as cattle grazing and forest clearing have led to the establishment of early successional grass layers in some native forests, which may inhibit or entirely prevent native tree regeneration. We hypothesize that increased grass coverage reduces or eliminates the establishment of native tree seedlings by limiting water availability to seeds and seedlings. This study aims to evaluate the impact of grass cover on tree seedling survival under varying levels of soil water stress. We conducted a field experiment using 36 experimental exclosures in two northwest Patagonian valleys, representing a regional gradient in altitude, rainfall, and tree canopy openness. Additionally, a greenhouse experiment was performed with 36 pots, manipulating four levels of grass cover and three levels of water stress. Results from both experiments showed similarities: in the field, the likelihood of finding a live tree seedling was approximately 2.78 times higher in areas without grass compared with grass‐covered sites. In the greenhouse, the presence of grass reduced the final number of established seedlings by an average of 43% across all irrigation levels, indicating significant water competition. These findings suggest that management practices promoting grass invasion could severely hinder tree regeneration in forests not adapted to large herbivore intensive grazing. Such situation may be exacerbated in regions suffering water limitation in the growing season or where the climate change would intensify water stress.
THREE LEADERSHIP PERSPECTIVES FOR ENHANCING THE ORCHESTRA CONDUCTOR METAPHOR
Authors: Chang Tiffany
Published: November 2024

The author is an award‐winning orchestral and opera conductor, and music conservatory professor, who remarks on the way that “the conductor is such a common metaphor in executive leadership.” Yet she discovered that these notions can be flawed because of misconceptions about what a conductor actually does, on the podium and outside it. She provides an “insider’s perspective,” that in her words, (1) the conductor is a storyteller, (2) listening is the conductor’s most important job, and (3) musicians don’t actually follow conductors. Within the first perspective, she takes “four approaches: investigate clues, find meaning, get buy‐in, and be a reverse‐engineer.” She relates that “It’s fascinating that different conductors can gather different stories based on their own worldviews, lived experiences, and artistic values. This results in many different possible performances of the same piece of music. That’s the magic of interpretation.” In perspective two, she describes “three types of awareness: situation‐aware, self‐aware, other‐aware.” Regarding teamwork in perspective three: “The best conductors enable teamwork and stay out of the way. They don’t insist on their help when it may be unhelpful.” Finally, she reminds us that “a conductor faces the same challenges as any leader embedded within a top‐down management structure.”
HOW LEADERS CAN APPLY THE PAUSE PRINCIPLE IN DIFFICULT INTERACTIONS
Authors: Kane Cynthia
Published: November 2024

The author, CEO and Founder of the Kane Intentional Communication Institute, LLC, contends that “at the forefront of creating a thriving culture is the way those in leadership positions communicate, especially under pressure.” While many companies conduct programs to aid in communication under pressure and in crucial encounters, the effects wear off not long after these interventions. “To keep our cool in high pressure moments,” she writes, “we need to put our attention not on the words we use or how we’re listening but on that split second between the other person’s words and our reaction.” Her own experiences led her to create what she terms the Pause Principle. One part of the latter is the SOFTEN practices, which she says “are mindfulness‐based practices.” The elements are Sensation, Own Your Discomfort, Focus on the Present, Take a Breath, Eyes Toward Another, Need to Say, Within Focus, she writes “Refocusing and redirecting our attention to the present moment helps us find our way out of the never‐ending cycle so we feel grounded, balanced, and centered again.” And for breathing, she recommends “inhaling for the count of five, holding the breath for the count of five, and then exhaling for the count of five.”
Postbiotics as Antiinflammatory and Immune‐Modulating Bioactive Compounds in Metabolic Dysfunction‐Associated Steatotic Liver Disease
Authors: Yilmaz Yusuf
Published: November 2024

Postbiotics, defined as products or metabolic byproducts secreted by live bacteria or released after bacterial lysis, are emerging as promising therapeutic agents for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). This review explores the antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties of various postbiotics, including exopolysaccharides, lipoteichoic acid, short‐chain fatty acids, hydrogen sulfide, polyamines, tryptophan derivatives, and polyphenol metabolites. These compounds have demonstrated potential in mitigating steatotic liver infiltration, reducing inflammation, and slowing fibrosis progression in preclinical studies. Notably, postbiotics exert their beneficial effects by modulating gut microbiota composition, enhancing intestinal barrier function, optimizing lipid metabolism, reducing hepatic inflammation and steatosis, and exhibiting hepatoprotective properties. However, translating these findings into clinical practice requires well‐designed trials to validate efficacy and safety, standardize production and characterization, and explore personalized approaches and synergistic effects with other therapeutic modalities. Despite challenges, the unique biological properties of postbiotics, such as enhanced safety compared to probiotics, make them attractive candidates for developing novel nutritional interventions targeting the multifactorial pathogenesis of MASLD. Further research is needed to establish their clinical utility and potential to improve liver and systemic outcomes in this increasingly prevalent condition.
Low‐rank iterative infilling for zero echo‐time (ZTE) imaging
Authors: Huo Zimu , de Arcos José , Wiesinger Florian , Kaggie Joshua D. , Graves Martin J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

A new referenceless low‐rank reconstruction technique has been introduced to address the issue of missing samples within the Zero Echo Time (ZTE) dead‐time gap.

Methods

The proposed method reformulates the in‐filling of the missing samples as an inverse problem subject to low‐rank constraints. Its performance and robustness are evaluated through a comparative analysis that combines Monte Carlo computational simulations and data obtained from in vivo experiments.

Results

The proposed method is tested for dead‐time gaps ranging up to 4.5 Nyquist dwells, across signal‐to‐noise ratio levels of 5, 10, 15, and 20 dB. Consistently superior performance is observed across all cases compared to algebraic and parallel imaging methods. The speed for convergence decreases exponentially as the dead‐time gap expands.

Conclusion

The proposed method enables artifact‐free reconstruction up to dead‐time gap of 4 Nyquist dwells and thereby supports ZTE imaging up to an imaging bandwidth of kHz (assuming transmit and receive switching less than 30 s). It demonstrates superior performance compared to algebraic and parallel imaging methods.
Enhancing resistance welding strength of carbon fiber/polycaprolactam thermoplastic composites through coupling agent‐modified metal heating elements
Authors: Liu Siyuan , Wang Yake , Wu Zhisheng , Li Jucai , Li Yan
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the impact of coupling agent‐modified resistance welding heating elements on the welding strength of carbon fiber‐reinforced polyamide 6 (PA6) thermoplastic composites. Silane coupling agent KH550 and titanate coupling agent UP‐201 were used to modify heating elements made of 304 stainless steel mesh. Optimal modification parameters for KH550‐modified stainless steel mesh (SSM) were determined using orthogonal experiments, resulting in maximum single lap shear strength (LSS) of 17.05 MPa under specific welding conditions. Comparative tests demonstrated the enhancement effect of UP‐201‐modified SSM on LSS. Additionally, two experimental schemes were used to study the synergistic enhancement effect of KH550 and UP‐201 on the LSS of resistance welded joints. The findings indicate that both coupling agents improve the welding strength, with significant differences in their individual and combined effects.

Highlights

This study explores carbon fiber reinforced Nylon 6, an innovative thermoplastic.

Analyzed effects of modified heating elements on joint shear strength.

Examined silane and titanate coupling agents' effects on weld joint shear strength.

Investigated synergistic effects of silane and titanate agents on weld joint strength.

Investigated the synergistic enhancement mechanism of silane and titanate agents.
Absolute Quantification of Phenylbutanoids in Zingiber cassumunar Roxb. Rhizome by Quantitative 1H NMR
Authors: Seaho Boonwiset , Lekwongphaiboon Chatkamon , Tayana Ngampuk , Inthakusol Wichayasith , Kongkiatpaiboon Sumet , Mahavorasirikul Wiratchanee , Prateeptongkum Saisuree , Duangdee Nongnaphat
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Quantitative determination of pharmacologically active constituents in medicinal plants is critical for quality control. Due to the chemical complexity of the crude plant extracts, the presence of interfering compounds is often problematic for the unambiguous quantitation of the designed bioactive compounds. Considering the method of quantification, quantitative NMR spectroscopy (qNMR) has gained substantial popularity as a powerful and effective technique for both qualitative and quantitative analyses of natural products.

Objective

The aim of this study is to develop a quantitative NMR method for quantifying the bioactive phenylbutanoids in Zingiber cassumunar rhizome crude extract.

Methods

Quantitative 1H NMR (qHNMR) measurements were performed on a 600 MHz NMR spectrometer using an internal standard for the determination of the absolute quantities of four phenylbutanoids in Z. cassumunar rhizome crude extract.

Results

The direct quantification of four characteristic phenylbutanoids, i.e., (E)‐1‐(3′,4′‐dimethoxyphenyl)butadiene (DMPBD), (E)‐1‐(2′,4′,5′‐trimethoxyphenyl)butadiene (TMPBD), (E)‐4‐(3′,4′‐dimethoxyphenyl)but‐3‐en‐1‐ol, and (E)‐4‐(3′,4′‐dimethoxyphenyl)but‐3‐en‐1‐yl acetate, in crude extract by qHNMR using an internal standard was achieved, with high specificity and sensitivity. The selected 1H NMR signals could unambiguously be assigned and did not overlap with other resonances, including the highly similar compounds DMPBD and TMPBD. The method is linear in the concentration range of 0.70–14.52 mg/mL, with a limit of quantification of 0.46–0.68 mg/mL. The RSD values of intraday and interday precisions are in the range of 0.23%–0.74% and 0.29%–0.52%, respectively. The average recoveries are 99.54%–100.18%.

Conclusions

A rapid, accurate, and precise method using 1H NMR for the simultaneous quantitation of four phenylbutanoids in the crude extract of Z. cassumunar rhizome was developed and validated.
Heparin and heparan sulfate—The essence of sequence
Authors: Kjellén Lena , Lindahl Ulf
Published: November 2024

Heparin, discovered as an anticoagulant more than 100 years ago, is composed of the same structural units as heparan sulfate, and their biosynthesis in the Golgi compartment is carried out by the same families of enzymes. However, while heparin is restricted to mast cells, heparan sulfate is widely distributed and is found at the cell surface of most, if not all, cells in the body and also in basement membranes and the extracellular matrix surrounding cells. Compared to the highly sulfated heparin, heparan sulfate has a complex and variable structure that yet appears regulated in tissue‐specific fashion. Interactions of proteins with heparan sulfate may be controlled through subtle structural changes of binding saccharide domains, resulting in modulated functional response. Unpredicted effects of enzyme overexpression on heparan sulfate structure point to key roles for interacting enzyme networks—the "GAGosome"—in regulation of heparan sulfate biosynthesis.
Managing knowledge and sustainability in resource constrained disaster environments
Authors: Sumbal Muhammad Saleem , Tariq Adeel , Ahmad Awais , Cerchione Roberto , Papa Armando
Published: November 2024

Organizations use both tangible and intangible resources for their existence to achieve sustainable development goals. Organizational knowledge mainly comprises of tacit knowledge held by employees. It becomes more critical when the situations are unpredictable, for example in rescue/disaster projects involving human lives at risk. Tacit knowledge utilization has been understudied particularly in such environments bounded by resource constraint and sustainability issues. This qualitative research attempts to fill this gap by collecting data from the knowledge workers in a large public sector non‐profit rescue organization. The study reveals various individual level, group level, organizational level, community level, and situational level factors, which impact the tacit knowledge utilization of rescue workers to properly execute emergency life threatening rescue operations and sustainability issues.
Design, Synthesis, and Insecticidal Activity of 3‐(6‐Methyltriazinone)‐3,4‐dihydrobenzo[b][1,5]diazin‐2(1H)‐ones: Conformationally Restricted Pymetrozine Analogues
Authors: Li Xiaoyang , Zhou Cong , Yang Wulin , Li Zhong , Cheng Jiagao
Published: November 2024

A series of novel 3‐(6‐methyltriazinone)‐3,4‐dihydrobenzo[b][1,5]diazin‐2(1H)‐one derivatives was designed and synthesized as conformationally restricted analogues of insecticide pymetrozine. Conformational and physicochemical properties analyses indicated the rationality in reducing the energy barrier between the lowest‐energy and predicted bioactive conformations, as well as pesticide‐likeness. Insecticidal bioassays showed that the optimal compound VI‐6b exhibited a mortality rate of 67.7% against Aphis craccivora at 400 mg L−1. The molecular docking study of VI‐6b within the Nilaparvata lugens TRPV channel elucidated the predicted binding mode, wherein VI‐6b forms hydrogen bonds with Arg646 and Glu727, while engaging in π‐π interactions with Phe688. However, physicochemical properties revealed that low lipophilicity and poor aqueous solubility limited the insecticidal efficacy of these novel compounds. This study provides valuable insights for the future design of insecticides targeting the TRPV channel.
Association Between FABP7‐5‐HT Pattern and Anxiety or Depression in Patients With Psoriasis: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Huang Dawei , Jiang Yuxiong , Wu Min , Ma Rui , Yu Yingyuan , Zhong Xiaoyuan , Li Ying , Chen Jianhua , Tan Fei , Lu Jiajing , Shi Yuling
Published: November 2024

Psoriasis exhibits a higher incidence of anxiety and depression. However, the diagnostic process heavily relies on subjective evaluation. Fatty acid‐binding protein 7 (FABP7) and serotonin (5‐HT) are considered as potential plasma biomarkers. We aimed to investigate the potentiality of plasma FABP7 and 5‐HT as biomarkers for predicting anxiety and depression in psoriasis. Data were analysed from 140 patients with psoriasis in the Shanghai Psoriasis Effectiveness Evaluation CoHort (SPEECH). Unsupervised clustering was employed to group patients based on their FABP7 and 5‐HT profiles. Subsequently, patients were categorised into Group 1 (lower FABP7 and higher 5‐HT) or Group 2. Multivariate logistic regression was employed to investigate the correlation between the FABP7‐5‐HT pattern and anxiety or depression in psoriasis patients. Patients with psoriasis have a higher incidence of anxiety or depression, as well as higher levels of FABP7 and lower levels of 5‐HT. After clustering patients using K‐means clustering, Group 2 showed a higher body mass index, a higher incidence of hypertension, more severe psoriasis, and more significant anxiety and depression compared to Group 1. Multivariate logistic regression shows that adjusting for covariates except PASI, duration of psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis, Group 2 had a higher risk of anxiety and depression compared to Group 1. Further adjustment for covariates yielded similar results. Pattern of FABP7‐5‐HT that may indicate an association with psoriasis accompanied by anxiety or depression.
Artificial Light‐Harvesting Systems with a Three‐Step Sequential Energy Transfer Mechanism for Efficient Photocatalytic Minisci‐Type Late‐Stage Functionalization
Authors: Zhang Rong‐Zhen , Niu Kai‐Kai , Bi Yu‐Song , Liu Hui , Han Ning , Xing Ling‐Bao
Published: November 2024

The natural process of photosynthesis involves a series of consecutive energy transfers, but achieving more steps of efficient energy transfer and photocatalytic organic conversion in artificial light‐harvesting systems (ALHSs) continues to pose a significant challenge. In the present investigation, a range of ALHSs showcasing a sophisticated three‐step energy transfer mechanism is designed, which are meticulously crafted using pillar[5]arene (WP[5]) and p‐phenylenevinylene derivative (PPTPy), utilizing host‐guest interactions as energy donors. Three distinct types of fluorescent dyes, namely Rhodamine B (RhB), Sulforhodamine 101 (SR101), and Cyanine 5 (Cy5), are employed as acceptors of energy. Starting from PPTPy‐2WP[5], energy is sequentially transferred to RhB, SR101, and Cy5, successfully constructing a multi‐step continuous energy transfer system with high energy transfer efficiency. More interestingly, as energy is progressively transferred, the efficiency of superoxide anion radical (O2•−) generation gradually increased, while the efficiency of singlet oxygen (1O2) generation decreased, achieving the transformation from type II photosensitizer to type I photosensitizer. Furthermore, in order to fully utilize the energy harvested and reactive oxygen species (ROS) obtained, the ALHSs employ a multi‐step sequential energy transfer process to enhance Minisci‐type alkylation reactions with aldehydes through photocatalysis for late‐stage functionalization in an aqueous environment, achieving a 91% yield.
Designing and Controlling Transient Supramolecular Gels
Authors: Bowley Emma L. , Bianco Simona , Stewart Fin Hallam , Wallace Chloe M. , Ginesi Rebecca E. , Loch Alex S. , Rosenthal Martin , Smith Andrew J. , Adams Dave J.
Published: November 2024

Supramolecular systems are often designed such that a steady state exists. However, the ability to design systems with pre‐determined changes in state can lead to highly dynamic materials, with evolving supramolecular structures and adaptable material properties. This approach is of great interest from the perspective of designing adaptive systems as well as from a broader systems chemistry perspective. Here, we report how a transient system can be altered to access different mechanical properties and transitions by varying the trigger and temperature. The aging of these systems is also explored, as the networks continually evolve long past the common cut‐off point of analysis of one day. We therefore provide new insights into the control of transient gels, as well as an understanding as to the underpinning supramolecular structures and how they evolve with time.
The effect of adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells against high fructose diet induced liver dysfunction and dysbiosis
Authors: Mohammed Marwa Abdeltawab , Hay Nesma Hussein Abel , Mohammed Maha Tarek , Mahmoud Hoda Sayed , Ahmed Manar Yehia , Abdelmenem Ahmed , Abdelrahim Dina Sayed
Published: November 2024

High fructose diet (HFrD) has been approved to be involved in the pathogenesis of insulin resistance. Mesenchymal stem cells have a vital role in the treatment of various diseases including metabolic disturbances. We investigated the effect of Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADMSCs) against HFrD-induced metabolic disorders and the molecular mechanisms for this effect. Rats were divided into 3 groups; control, HFrD, and combined HFrD with ADMSCs. We assessed liver functions, gut microbiota activity, oxidative stress, adiponectin, and IL10 levels. Also, we measured SREBP-1, IRS-1 expression using Western blot, and Malat1 expression using rt-PCR. ADMSCs antagonized metabolic abnormalities induced by HFrD in the form of improvement of liver functions and alleviation of oxidative stress. In addition, ADMSCs ameliorated gut microbiota activity besides the elevation of adiponectin and IL10 levels. ADMSCs attenuated insulin resistance through upregulation of IRS1 and downregulation of SREBP-1 and Malat1. ADMSCs can protect against HFrD-induced metabolic hazards.