bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
INCLUSIVE INVESTMENT IN THE SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF THE AGRICULTURAL SECTOR AND RURAL AREAS OF UKRAINE
Authors:   State Biotechnology University, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Stepanenko Sergii , Kryukova Irina ,   Odessa State Agrarian University, Odessa, Ukraine, Khalin Stanislav ,   “Ukrainian Research Institute of Forecasting and Testing machinery and technology for agricultural production named after Leonid Pohorily”, Doslydnitske Village, Ukraine, Podsokha Anna ,   Chuguyiv Division of Chamber Inspections of the Directorate for Identifying and Processing Tax Risks of the Main Directorate of the DPS in the Kharkiv Region, Kharkiv, Ukraine
Published: October 2023

This scientific study is devoted to solving the tasks of overcoming these negative trends at the expense of substantiating the mechanism of inclusive investment. The article examines the essence and role of the inclusive investment mechanism in agricultural business. Based on the system of fundamental indicators, an assessment of the current level of sustainable development of the agricultural sector of Ukraine was carried out. The main trends accompanying the agrarian sectorâ€™s transition to sustainable development principles have been identified. The main directions of investment in the rural business of Ukraine have been revealed. An analysis of the sources, volumes, and dynamics of agricultural investment in solving the problems of sustainable development of agribusiness and rural areas was carried out. A prospective assessment of the amount of inclusive investment resources in the agricultural sector and the rural regions is given. The main problematic aspects related to the process of inclusive investment in Ukrainian agrarian business are characterized. The critical organizational and economic principles of forming a sustainable business model for developing an agricultural industry based on inclusive investment are substantiated. The conducted studies confirmed the presence of transformational changes in the economy of the agricultural sector of Ukraine in the direction of achieving the goals and objectives of sustainable development. The research results formed the basis for substantiating practical proposals and recommendations for improving the process of attracting inclusive investments in agricultural business and the development of rural areas.
PROSPECTS FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE ESG CONCEPT IN THE FACE OF NEW CHALLENGES
Authors:   Odesa National University of Technology, Odesa, Ukraine, Lagodiyenko Oleg , Lagodiienko Volodymyr ,   Odesa National University of Technology, Odesa, Ukraine, Ivanchenkova Larysa ,   Odesa National University of Technology, Odesa, Ukraine, Romanashenko Iryna ,   State Biotechnology University, Kharkiv, Ukraine, Laskaiev Oleksandr ,   Odesa National University of Technology, Odesa, Ukraine
Published: October 2023

Regulators and businesses worldwide are gradually understanding the importance of climate change adaptation and mitigation measures. Therefore, decision-makers - national regulators, regional authorities, and heads of corporations - need an appropriate toolkit that ensures adequate decisionmaking based on quantitative assessments of various decarbonization and adaptation scenarios. The most promising tools for the decarbonization of the economy are analyzed. It was noted that technological modernization and structural transformation of the industry within the framework of decarbonization are necessary for the positive effect of the transition to lowcarbon development. It was emphasized that enterprises should independently form their ESG strategies to adapt to climate change. Applying an ESG strategy in the long term means increasing business competitiveness and profitability. ESG analysis can help identify several potential long-term financial risks and opportunities, including the possible impact of future carbon regulations and cost savings associated with more efficient use of resources. It was noted that the decarbonization of the economy creates new opportunities for developing green finance and low-carbon technologies. Still, at the same time, it is necessary to remember about possible risks of different nature. The transition to sustainable development is perceived as an objective requirement of time, determining the future of any country. This is not only a problem of the contradiction between the development of economic potential and the limited possibilities of technogenic load on the environment but also a contradiction between the moral principles that a large part of society adheres to and the axioms of social justice.
Is ambiguity a source of inequity? Nominalization in sustaining and effacing power asymmetries
Authors: Adams Heather , González-Ruiz Víctor
Published: October 2023

This article explores the tendency to nominalization in legal discourse from different perspectives, underscoring arguments from the field of critical discourse analysis (in particular, those related to the detrimental consequences that omitting the agent may entail), and offers a qualitative case study regarding the use of nouns in the informative texts given by the Spanish Social Security department on its web about a minimum wage benefit scheme. For this case study, we have used the framework proposed by Willerton (2015) involving his BUROC model, aimed at identifying the circumstances in which plain language should be a priority. As an answer to the question posed in the title of this article, the findings suggest that excessive nominalization harms the lay reader’s ability to comprehend and, as a result, places him or her in a disadvantageous position in legal settings; however, the results also indicate that it is the writer’s overall lack of empathy towards the reader which ultimately has the most negative impact on legal communication.
Prognostic analyses of genes associated with anoikis in breast cancer
Authors: Cao Jingyu , Ma Xinyi , Zhang Guijuan , Hong Shouyi , Ma Ruirui , Wang Yanqiu , Yan Xianxin , Ma Min
Published: October 2023

Breast cancer (BRCA) is the most diagnosed cancer worldwide and is responsible for the highest cancer-associated mortality among women. It is evident that anoikis resistance contributes to tumour cell metastasis, and this is the primary cause of treatment failure for BRCA. However, anoikis-related gene (ARG) expression profiles and their prognostic value in BRCA remain unclear. In this study, a prognostic model of ARGs based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database was established using a least absolute shrinkage and selection operator analysis to evaluate the prognostic value of ARGs in BRCA. The risk factor graph demonstrated that the low-risk group had longer survival than the high-risk group, implying that the prognostic model had a good performance. We identified 11 ARGs that exhibited differential expression between the two risk groups in TCGA and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. Through Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopaedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses, we revealed that the screened ARGs were associated with tumour progression and metastasis. In addition, a protein–protein interaction network showed potential interactions among these ARGs. Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis suggested that the Notch and Wnt signalling pathways were overexpressed in the high-risk group, and gene set variation analysis revealed that 38 hallmark genes differed between the two groups. Moreover, Kaplan–Meier survival curves and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to identify five ARGs (CD24, KRT15, MIA, NDRG1, TP63), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction was employed to assess the differential expression of these ARGs. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were then performed for the key ARGs, with the best prediction of 3 year survival. In conclusion, ARGs might play a crucial role in tumour progression and serve as indicators of prognosis in BRCA.
Evaluation of drought stress level in Sargent’s cherry (Prunus sargentii Rehder) using photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and proline content analysis
Authors: Jin Eon Ju , Yoon Jun-Hyuk , Lee Hyeok , Bae Eun Ji , Yong Seong Hyeon , Choi Myung Suk
Published: October 2023

Sargent’s cherry trees (Prunus sargentiiRehder) are widely planted as an ornamental, climate change-sensing species. This study investigated changes in the soil moisture content, fresh weight, photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence properties, and the chlorophyll and proline content of four-year-old P. sargentii seedlings after 30 days of drought stress. In the trees subjected to drought stress treatment, soil moisture content decreased, and the fresh weight of the aboveground part of the plant decreased. However, there was no significant difference in the root growth of the dried plants. Among the photosynthesis parameters, Pn MAX, E and gs showed a significant (p  <  0.001) decrease after 15 days in dry-stressed seedlings, but there was no difference between treatments in WUE until 20 days, and there was a significant (p  <  0.001) difference after 24 days. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, Fv/Fm, ΦPSII, Rfd, NPQ, and Pn MAX, also increased after 10 days in dry-stressed seedlings, but these changes did not reach statistical significance compared to the control treatment. These results may suggest that drought stress highly correlates with photosynthesis and chlorophyll fluorescence parameters. Chlorophyll content also significantly decreased in the seedlings under drought stress compared with the control treatment. The proline content decreased until the 10th day of drought stress treatment and increased after the 15th day, showing an increase of 10.9% on the 15th day and 57.1% on the 30th day, compared to the control treatment. These results suggest that photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters, and proline content can be used to evaluate drought stress in trees. The results of this study can contribute to the management of forests, such as the irrigation of trees when pore control ability and photosynthesis ability decrease.
Dead but not forgotten: complexity of Acropora palmata colonies increases with greater composition of dead coral
Authors: Engleman Abigail , Cox Kieran , Brooke Sandra
Published: October 2023

Coral reefs are highly biodiverse ecosystems that have declined due to natural and anthropogenic stressors. Researchers often attribute reef ecological processes to corals’ complex structure, but effective conservation requires disentangling the contributions of coral versus reef structures. Many studies assessing the relationships between reef structure and ecological dynamics commonly use live coral as a proxy for reef complexity, disregarding the contribution of dead coral skeletons to reef habitat provision or other biogeochemical reef dynamics. This study aimed to assess the contribution of dead coral to reef complexity by examining structural variations in live and dead Acropora palmata colonies. We used photogrammetry to reconstruct digital elevation models (DEMs) and orthomosaics of the benthic region immediately surrounding 10 A. palmata colonies. These reconstructions were used to quantify structural metrics, including surface rugosity, fractal dimension, slope, planform curvature, and profile curvature, as a function of benthic composition (i.e., live A. palmata, dead A. palmata, or non-A. palmata substrate). The results revealed that dead coral maintained more varied profile curvatures and higher fractal dimensions than live or non-coral substrate. Conversely, A. palmata colonies with a higher proportion of live coral displayed more uniform structure, with lower fractal dimensions and less variability in profile curvature measures. Other metrics showed no significant difference among substrate types. These findings provide novel insights into the structural differences between live and dead coral, and an alternative perspective on the mechanisms driving the observed structural complexity on reefs. Overall, our results highlight the overlooked potential contributions of dead coral to reef habitat provision, ecological processes, and other biogeochemical reef dynamics, and could have important implications for coral reef conservation.
Impacts of land use change on native plant-butterfly interaction networks from central Mexico
Authors: Muñoz-Galicia Deysi , Lara Carlos , Castillo-Guevara Citlalli , Cuautle Mariana , Rodríguez-Flores Claudia
Published: October 2023

Background

Land use change is a key catalyst of global biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. Deforestation and conversion of natural habitats to agricultural or urban areas can profoundly disrupt plant-flower visitor interactions by altering their abundances and distribution. Yet, specific studies analyzing the effects of land use change on the structure of networks of the interactions between particular groups of flower visitors and their plants are still scarce. Here, we aimed to analyze how converting native habitats affects the species composition of butterfly communities and their plants, and whether this, in turn, leads to changes in the structure of interaction networks in the modified habitats.

Methods

We performed bi-monthly censuses for a year to record plant-butterfly interactions and assess species diversity across three habitat types, reflecting a land-use change gradient. From original native juniper forest to urban and agricultural zones in central Mexico, one site per land use type was surveyed. Interactions were summarized in matrices on which we calculated network descriptors: connectance, nestedness and modularity.

Results

We found highest butterfly diversity in native forest, with the most unique species (i.e., species not shared with the other two sites). Agricultural and urban sites had similar diversity, yet the urban site featured more unique species. The plant species richness was highest in the urban site, and the native forest site had the lowest plant species richness, with most of the plants being unique to this site. Butterfly and plant compositions contrasted most between native forest and modified sites. Network analysis showed differences between sites in the mean number of links and interactions. The urban network surpassed agriculture and native forest networks in links, while the native forest network had more interactions than the agriculture and urban networks. Native plants had more interactions than alien species. All networks exhibited low connectance and significant nestedness and modularity, with the urban network featuring the most modules (i.e., 10 modules).

Conclusions

Converting native habitats to urban or agricultural areas reshapes species composition, diversity and interaction network structure for butterfly communities and plants. The urban network showed more links and modules, suggesting intricate urban ecosystems due to diverse species, enhanced resources, and ecological niches encouraging interactions and coexistence. These findings emphasize the impacts of land use change on plant-butterfly interactions and the structure of their interaction networks.
Physical activity, problematic smartphone use, and burnout among Chinese college students
Authors: Zhu Lianghao , Hou Junli , Zhou Bojun , Xiao Xi , Wang Jingqiang , Jia Wanping
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between physical activity (PA), problematic smartphone use (PSU), and burnout, as well as to identify whether there is a mediating role for PSU. We recruited 823 college students (Mage = 18.55, SD = 0.83) from Wuhan, China, in December 2022, including 499 males and 324 females. Demographic information, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form (IPAQ-SF), the Smartphone Addiction Scale-Short Version (SAS-SV), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey (MBI-SS) were used for assessments. Pearson correlation analysis showed that PA was significantly associated with PSU (r = −0.151, p < 0.001), PSU was significantly associated with burnout (r = 0.421, p < 0.001), and the association between PA and burnout was not statistically significant (r = −0.046, p > 0.05). The results of the mediation model test showed that PA could not predict burnout directly; it instead predicted burnout entirely indirectly through PSU. Furthermore, PSU mediated the predictive effect of PA on exhaustion and cynicism. In conclusion, there is no direct connection between PA levels and burnout. PA indirectly affects burnout through PSU, but does not fully apply to the three different dimensions of exhaustion, cynicism, and professional efficacy.
Reconocimiento de trayectorias de aprendizajes en el currículum formal de las instituciones de educación superior: un estudio de caso
Authors:   , López Caihuan Jocelyn del Carmen
Published: October 2023

El presente estudio analiza la implementación de los mecanismos establecidos para el reconocimiento de aprendizajes informales y no formales en dos carreras tecnológicas de ingreso especial de las áreas de construcción y administración, ambas con seis semestres de duración, pertenecientes a una Universidad Pública de la Región Metropolitana. Para esto, se realizó un diagnóstico en el ámbito curricular, utilizándose para ello revisión documental, entrevistas semiestructuradas y grupos focales, posteriormente se analizaron las fortalezas y debilidades de los mecanismos de reconocimiento de aprendizaje implementados en ambas carreras. A partir del análisis de la evidencia empírica recogida, de los referentes teóricos y de las particularidades contextuales, se diseñó una propuesta de fortalecimiento que considera dos vías: i) el reconocimiento de aprendizajes como mecanismo de ingreso para estudiantes que no cumplen con los requisitos de acceso a la carrera; ii) mecanismo de disminución de la carga académica durante la trayectoria formativa, para aquellos estudiantes que una vez dentro del programa y ya cursado los primeros semestres de formación teórica de ambas carreras, puedan optar a esta opción en caso de contar con experiencia laboral en el área. La propuesta diseñada, aporta elementos para que otras carreras de similares características a las analizadas en este estudio, puedan avanzar en procesos y mecanismos de reconocimiento de trayectorias de aprendizajes a estudiantes que acceden a planes de ingreso especial al interior de la Institución.
Integración de la operación de embalses multipropósito en sistemas hídricos a escala de cuenca y sistemas eléctricos de gran escala
Authors:   , Durán Flores Antonia Ignacia Paz
Published: October 2023

Los fenómenos climáticos, particularmente las sequias hidrológicas, han impulsado un cambio de paradigma en las estrategias de planificación de embalses. La operación de embalses multipropósito juega un papel fundamental en la gestión de los recursos hídricos almacenados, apoyando diversas actividades como la generación de electricidad y el riego agrícola. Con el objetivo de analizar la planificación y simulación de los sistemas de energía y agrícolas, se propone un enfoque integrado que combina un modelo de coordinación hidrotérmica y un modelo de gestión de recursos hídricos. La metodología permite evaluar en diferentes escenarios hidrológicos las políticas que definen la operación de un embalse multipropósito y su desempeño. Además, se realiza una modificación a esta política, mejorando la prioridad al sector agrícola y se evalúa su efecto frente a variaciones hidrológicas en lo afluentes. Esta metodología se desarrolla en lago Laja, un embalse multipropósito relevante en capacidad de generación hidroeléctrica y con grandes extensiones de predios para riego. Con perspectiva hacia el año 2025, los resultados demuestran que los cambios hidrológicos impactan directamente en el desempeño eléctrico y agrícola, ya que las condiciones de sequía conducen a un aumento en la generación térmica, los costos, la intensidad de emisiones y los déficits. Además, la modificación de la política revela trade-offs entre la intensidad de emisiones del sector eléctrico y los déficits agrícolas, donde los escenarios secos indican que mejorar la confiabilidad agrícola resulta en un bajo costo de emisiones, incentivando a promoción de políticas que estén alineada con los objetivos de carbono neutralidad.
Proposta de implementação de marketing empresarial para enriquecer as estratégias de divulgação e otimizar a estrutura, promover melhor engamento com os clientes: estudo de caso realizado na distribuidora Kibarato Cereal
Authors: Florentino Gabriella de Azevedo , Dos Santos Gilmara Costa , Roberto José Carlos Alves , Pinto Junior José Roberto Lira
Published: October 2023

Este estudo de caso realizado na empresa de pequeno porte Kibarato Cereal, localizada na cidade de Manaus, estado do amazonas, surgiu a partir do diagnóstico organizacional realizado na empresa, onde avaliou-se que esta precisava operar com maior ênfase na área de marketing, sobretudo no que tange ao uso de ferramentas dentro da organização em busca de melhorar os resultados operacionais e financeiros. Diante este cenário identificou-se a probabilidade do uso de marketing empresarial. Entretanto, o presente artigo buscou resolver a seguinte questão norteadora: “Como a empresa pode otimizar sua estrutura e estratégias de marketing de divulgação para alcançar um público mais amplo e promover um maior engajamento dos clientes?”. Seu objetivo geral é demonstrar os benefícios da implementação das ações interventivas no marketing empresarial, tendo como objetivo criar uma estratégia de marketing de divulgação para alcançar um público mais amplo e otimizar sua estrutura pensando no seu público alvo. Este artigo se caracteriza como um estudo de caso de natureza qualitativa com seus objetivos exploratório-descritivos, sendo uma pesquisa bibliográfica. Por fim, conclui-se que as principais ferramentas sugeridas para aplicação foram o Endomarketing, o Kaizen, uma reestruturação da mão-de-obra e um investimento em divulgações da marca, o qual ajudaram a estabelecer as diretrizes para abordar a resolução de problemas e apresentar soluções que atendam as demandas da organização.
Isotretinoin for Treatment of Acne
Authors: Barbieri John S.
Published: October 2023

This JAMA Dermatology Patient Page discusses isotretinoin for treatment of acne.
Survival Outcomes by Race and Ethnicity in Veterans With Nonmetastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Rasmussen Kelli M. , Patil Vikas , Li Chunyang , Yong Christina , Appukkuttan Sreevalsa , Grossman Jamie Partridge , Jhaveri Jay , Halwani Ahmad S.
Published: October 2023

Importance

Racial and ethnic disparities in prostate cancer are poorly understood. A given disparity-related factor may affect outcomes differently at each point along the highly variable trajectory of the disease.

Objective

To examine clinical outcomes by race and ethnicity in patients with nonmetastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) within the US Veterans Health Administration.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A retrospective, observational cohort study using electronic health care records (January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2021) in a nationwide equal-access health care system was conducted. Mean (SD) follow-up time was 4.3 (3.3) years. Patients included in the analysis were diagnosed with prostate cancer from January 1, 2006, to December 30, 2020, that progressed to nmCRPC defined by (1) increasing prostate-specific antigen levels, (2) ongoing androgen deprivation, and (3) no evidence of metastatic disease. Patients with metastatic disease or death within the landmark period (3 months after the first nmCRPC evidence) were excluded.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was time from the landmark period to death or metastasis; the secondary outcome was overall survival. A multivariate Cox proportional hazards model, Kaplan-Meier estimates, and adjusted survival curves were used to evaluate outcome differences by race and ethnicity.

Results

Of 12 992 patients in the cohort, 826 patients identified as Hispanic (6%), 3671 as non-Hispanic Black (28%; henceforth Black), 7323 as non-Hispanic White (56%; henceforth White), and 1172 of other race and ethnicity (9%; henceforth other, including American Indian or Alaska Native, Asian, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander, unknown by patient, and patient declined to answer). Median time elapsed from nmCRPC to metastasis or death was 5.96 (95% CI, 5.58-6.34) years for Black patients, 5.62 (95% CI, 5.11-6.67) years for Hispanic patients, 4.11 (95% CI, 3.96–4.25) years for White patients, and 3.59 (95% CI, 3.23-3.97) years for other patients. Median unadjusted overall survival was 6.26 (95% CI, 6.03-6.46) years among all patients, 8.36 (95% CI, 8.0-8.8) years for Black patients, 8.56 (95% CI, 7.3-9.7) years for Hispanic patients, 5.48 (95% CI, 5.2-5.7) years for White patients, and 4.48 (95% CI, 4.1-5.0) years for other patients.

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study of patients with nmCRPC suggest that differences in outcomes by race and ethnicity exist; in addition, Black and Hispanic men may have considerably improved outcomes when treated in an equal-access setting.
Potential effect of managing connectivity to contain disease spread among free‐ranging wild boar (Sus scrofa) in disparate landscapes
Authors: Vargas‐Amado Maria Elena , Vidondo Beatriz , Fischer Claude , Pisano Simone Roberto Rolando , Grütter Rolf
Published: October 2023

Landscape connectivity is a major factor shaping the spread of pathogens in wildlife populations. By managing connectivity, transmission pathways can be broken and disease spread be contained, particularly in the early phases of an outbreak. Having witnessed recent outbreaks of African Swine Fever in free‐ranging wild boar (Sus scrofa) in Belgium, Germany and Italy, offices for disease control are on the alert also in other western European countries.

This study investigates the potential effect of managing landscape connectivity to contain disease spread among free‐ranging wild boar in disparate landscapes. It involves research into (1) the ease with which wildlife corridors can be blocked for wild boar, (2) the connectivity of wild boar habitat and (3) the impact of landscape fragmentation on connectivity management. This is addressed by carrying out GIS analyses and performing graph operations on the wild boar networks in different biogeographical regions of Switzerland.

The results of doing research into the three above‐mentioned objects show that, regarding the first, most wildlife corridors are hard to block for wild boar, because their features or location make fencing difficult. Regarding the second, the wild boar habitat is connected. Opening wildlife passages that are currently under construction may allow wild boar to disperse to hitherto uncolonized areas. Regarding the third, all wild boar networks could be partially decomposed by blocking the easy to block corridors and closing the passages. Network decomposition would be easiest to achieve in the region where the built infrastructure is most abundant. All over Switzerland, the potential epidemic size could be reduced by 25% when blocking the minimal set of corridors and passages that cut the networks to non‐decomposable components.

This study suggests that (a) combining connectivity analysis with fragmentation analysis is key to explaining why a specific measure of disease containment is more effective in one landscape than in the other, (b) complementing the permeability model with a species distribution model is essential to identify connected habitat patches for the species of concern and (c) connectivity metrics should consider also the surface area of occupied habitat patches and relative abundance of the species of concern.
Memory and metamemory in everyday settings: Assessing recall, recognition, and naming using car brand logos
Authors: Mayas Julia , Prieto Antonio , Montoro Pedro R.
Published: October 2023

Previous research on incidental memory in everyday settings has shown that frequent exposure to stimuli does not guarantee accurate representation in memory. In two studies, we explored the memory and metamemory of car brand logos using recall (drawing) and recognition tasks (Study 1) or a naming task (Study 2). The results showed that memory accuracy for logos was modest in the recall and recognition tasks; nevertheless, the participants' accuracy in naming the visually displayed car logos was almost perfect. The participants showed overconfidence in their ability to recall and recognize car logos prior to their performance, which was adjusted after completing the recall task. Overconfidence was absent in the naming tasks. These results replicate the modest visual memory and metacognitive adjustments in recall and recognition tasks found in previous studies and contrast with participants' better memory performance and metacognitive adjustments in the naming task.
Flexural Behavior of Bidirectionally Graded Lattice
Authors: Rodrigo Chamini , Xu Shanqing , Durandet Yvonne , Fraser Darren , Ruan Dong
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the flexural behavior of newly designed bidirectionally graded lattice beams with body‐centered cubic unit cells made of stainless steel 316 L. Uniform and unidirectionally graded lattice beams are also studied for comparison. All the lattice beams are fabricated by electron beam melting and tested under quasi‐static bending loads. The experimental results reveal that the flexural stiffness and strength of bidirectional lattice beams are higher than those of both the uniform and unidirectional counterparts. The unidirectional lattice beams display the lowest strength owing to the easier collapse of thinner lattice layers on the impact side with the indenter. Finite element models, developed and validated using the experimental results, are used to evaluate the effects of the density gradient and the loading velocity on the performance of bidirectional lattice beams. The parametric study shows that the flexural stress and the specific energy absorption capacity of bidirectional functionally graded lattice beams increase with increasing loading velocity and can be enhanced by manipulating the layer density gradient.
Engineered Heterogenous Subnanochannel Membranes with a Tri‐Continuous Pore Structure of Large Geometry Gradient for Massively Enhanced Osmotic Power Conversion from Organic Solutions
Authors: Fauziah Amalia Rizki , Yeh Li‐Hsien
Published: October 2023

Heterogenous nanofluidic membranes with bi‐layer structures and ionic diode effect are shown great potential in efficiently harvesting the energy existing in a salinity gradient (or called the osmotic power conversion). However, exploitation of a heterogenous membrane with superior ion selectivity, excellent conductance, and strong ionic diode characteristics has remained a great challenge. Here, a novel heterogenous subnanochannel membrane with a tri‐continuous pore structure of a large geometry gradient ranging from sub‐nanoscale to nanoscale to sub‐microscale, which is composed of a thin and crack‐free layer of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8)/polystyrene sulfonate (PSS) membranes and an aligned branch‐type alumina nanochannel membrane (BANM) is reported. It is demonstrated that such a tri‐continuous pore structure can endow the exploited membrane, ZIF‐8/PSS@BANM, with enhanced ion selectivity, strong ion current rectification, and ultrafast ion transport properties, in organic electrolyte solutions. Thus, an amazingly high power of ≈50.5 W m−2 is produced by mixing a 2 m LiCl‐methanol and pure methanol solutions, which is over 45‐fold higher than the existing membranes. Realizing high ion selectivity and amplified directional ion transport at sub‐nanoconfined spaces in organic solvents paves the new way to develop ion‐channel‐mimetic membranes toward efficient ion separation and high‐performance energy harvesters for battery applications.
Functional Nanozymes Consisting of Co2+‐ZIF‐67 Metal‐Organic Framework Nanoparticles and Co2+‐ZIF‐67/Polyaniline Conjugates
Authors: Wu Yi , Qin Yunlong , Muppidathi Marieeswaran , Carmieli Raanan , Fadeev Michael , Lei Wu , Xia Mingzhu , Willner Itamar
Published: October 2023

Co2+‐ZIF‐67 metal‐organic framework nanoparticles (NMOFs), act as nanozymes catalyzing diverse processes, including peroxidase, oxidase, and catalase activities. Peroxidase activities are reflected by the nanozyme‐catalyzed H2O2 oxidation of dopamine to aminochrome, the H2O2 oxidation of NADH to NAD+, the H2O2‐catalyzed generation of chemiluminescence through oxidation of luminol, and the H2O2‐mediated oxidation of aniline to polyaniline. Oxidase activities of the nanozyme are demonstrated by the Co2+‐ZIF‐67 NMOFs catalyzed aerobic oxidation of dopamine to aminochrome and of NADH to NAD+, and catalase activities of the nanozyme are reflected by the catalytic decomposition of H2O2. Moreover, the Co2+‐ZIF‐67 catalyzed oxidation of aniline to polyaniline (PAN) by H2O2 is accompanied by the coating of NMOFs with PAN to yield a Co2+‐ZIF‐67/PAN hybrid material. Coating the particles in the presence of guest substrates leads to molecular imprinted PAN matrices revealing enhanced ZIF‐67 catalyzed transformations as compared to non‐imprinted PAN matrices. This is demonstrated by imprinting of 2,2′‐azinobis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic acid), ABTS2−, in the PAN coating and the 3.3‐fold enhanced catalyzed oxidation of ABTS2− by H2O2, as compared to the non‐imprinted PAN hybrid composite. Moreover, imprinting of L‐/D‐DOPA in the PAN coating of Co2+‐ZIF‐67 NMOFs leads to chiro‐selective H2O2‐guided oxidation of L‐/D‐DOPA to dopachrome by the NMOFs/PAN composite.
Highly Stretchable yet Degradable and Recyclable Conductive Composites with Liquid Metal Nanodroplets as Physical Crosslinks
Authors: Zhong Dingling , Shi Shiyang , Yang Xiaolong , Handschuh‐Wang Stephan , Zhang Yaokang , Gan Tiansheng , Zhou Xuechang
Published: October 2023

Liquid metal (LM) droplet‐embedded polymer composites with exceptional thermal, electrical, and mechanical characteristics are attractive for applications in soft electronics and thermal management. Generally, a high volume fraction of LMs is required for desirable thermal and electrical properties, and thus recycling of LMs is favorable and cost effective. However, recycling LMs from composites remains a formidable challenge because the LM droplets are typically dispersed into a permanent covalently crosslinked polymer matrix. Here, a facile synthesis of LM‐polymer composites with high electrical conductivity (1800 S cm−1), high stretchability (1400% tensile strain), as well as degradability and recyclability is reported. The composite comprises a poly(2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate) hydrogel that is physically crosslinked by LM nanodroplets as a polymer matrix and either LM microdroplets or silver microflakes as a conductive filler. A postdrying process improves the mechanical performance of the composite while creating percolating pathways via the rearrangement of the conductive fillers, imparting high electrical conductivity to the composite. Moreover, the composites are readily degraded and dissolved in aqueous alkali solutions at room temperature thanks to the reactive nature of LM crosslinks, enabling high recycling efficiency of ≈80% and 95% for composites with LM microdroplets and silver microflakes as conductive fillers, respectively.
High‐Toughness and High‐Strength Solvent‐Free Linear Poly(ionic liquid) Elastomers
Authors: Li Lingling , Wang Xiaowei , Gao Shuna , Zheng Sijie , Zou Xiuyang , Xiong Jiaofeng , Li Weizheng , Yan Feng
Published: October 2023

Solvent‐free elastomers, unlike gels, do not suffer from solvent evaporation and leakage in practical applications. However, it is challenging to realize the preparation of high‐toughness (with both high stress and strain) ionic elastomers. Herein, high‐toughness linear poly(ionic liquid) (PIL) elastomers are constructed via supramolecular ionic networks formed by the polymerization of halometallate ionic liquid (IL) monomers, without any chemical crosslinking. The obtained linear PIL elastomers exhibit high strength (16.5 MPa), Young's modulus (157.49 MPa), toughness (130.31 MJ m−3), and high crack propagation insensitivity (fracture energy 243.37 kJ m−2), owing to the enhanced intermolecular noncovalent interactions of PIL chains. Furthermore, PIL elastomer‐based strain, pressure, and touch sensors have shown high sensitivity. The linear noncovalent crosslinked network endows the PIL elastomers with self‐healing and recyclable properties, and broad application prospects in the fields of flexible sensor devices, health monitoring, and human–machine interaction.
Icariin attenuates the calcification of vascular smooth muscle cells through ERα – p38MAPK pathway
Authors: He Jieyu , Wang Yanjiao , Zhan Junkun , Li Shuang , Ni Yuqing , Huang Wu , Long Limin , Tan Pan , Wang Yi , Liu Youshuo
Published: October 2023

Objective

To investigate the relationship between icariin and the osteoblastic differentiation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and the signal pathway involved.

Methods

We applied a universally accepted calcification model of VSMCs induced by β glycerophosphate. Then the VSMCs calcification was observed by treatment with icariin and/or inhibitors of estrogen receptors (ERs) and p38‐mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling.

Results

Icariin inhibited osteoblastic differentiation and mineralization of VSMCs due to decreased ALP activity and Runx2 expression. Further study demonstrated that icariin exerted this suppression effect through activating p38‐MAPK but not extracellular‐regulated kinase, JNK or Akt. An inhibitor of p38‐MAPK partially reversed the inhibitory effects of icariin on osteoblastic differentiation. Interestingly, treatment of VSMCs with an ER antagonist ICI182780 and a selective ERα receptor antagonist PPT attenuated icariin‐mediated inhibition effect of VSMCs calcification, associated with suppression of p38‐MAPK phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Icariin inhibited the osteoblastic differentiation of VSMCs, and that the inhibitory effects were mediated by p38‐MAPK pathways through ERα.
Recent trends in organ‐preserving pancreatectomy: Its problems and clinical advantages compared with other standard pancreatectomies
Authors: Kato Hiroyuki , Asano Yukio , Ito Masahiro , Arakawa Satoshi , Horiguchi Akihiko
Published: October 2023

In this review article, we focus on recent papers on organ‐preserving pancreatectomy procedures published since 2010. When comparing central pancreatectomy (CP) and distal pancreatectomy (DP), most studies have concluded that the CP group exhibited significantly lower incidence of new‐onset diabetes or diabetes exacerbation than the DP group postoperatively. However, because of increased incidence of morbidities such as pancreatic fistula, the surgeon faces a considerable trade‐off between increased short‐term morbidity and long‐term preservation of endocrine function. When the outcomes of two types of spleen‐preserving DP (Kimura and Warshaw procedures) are compared, most studies mentioned the low incidence of postoperative gastric varices and splenic infarction with the Kimura procedure. Although there are several reports regarding the effect of spleen preservation on prevention of postoperative infections, no report on the contribution of spleen preservation to the prevention of overwhelming post‐splenectomy infection is seen. The advantages of duodenum‐preserving pancreatic head resection (DPPHR) concerning endocrine and exocrine functions continue to be subjects of discussion, mainly due to the limited number of institutions that have adopted this approach; however, DPPHR should be presented as an option for patients due to its low incidence of postoperative cholangitis. Organ‐preserving pancreatectomy requires meticulous surgical techniques, and postoperative complications may increase with this surgery compared with standard pancreatectomy, which may be influenced by the surgeon's skill and the surgical facility where the procedure is performed. Nonetheless, this technique has significant long‐term advantages in terms of endocrine and exocrine functions and its wider adoption in the future is expected.
A Lantern‐Shaped Pd(II) Cage Constructed from Four Different Low‐Symmetry Ligands with Positional and Orientational Control: An Ancillary Pairings Approach
Authors: Preston Dan , Evans Jack D.
Published: October 2023

One of the key challenges of metallo‐supramolecular chemistry is to maintain the ease of self‐assembly but, at the same time, create structures of increasingly high levels of complexity. In palladium(II) quadruply stranded lantern‐shaped cages, this has been achieved through either 1) the formation of heteroleptic (multi‐ligand) assemblies, or 2) homoleptic assemblies from low‐symmetry ligands. Heteroleptic cages formed from low‐symmetry ligands, a hybid of these two approaches, would add an additional rich level of complexity but no examples of these have been reported. Here we use a system of ancillary complementary ligand pairings at the termini of cage ligands to target heteroleptic assemblies: these complementary pairs can only interact (through coordination to a single Pd(II) metal ion) between ligands in a cis position on the cage. Complementarity between each pair (and orthogonality to other pairs) is controlled by denticity (tridentate to monodentate or bidentate to bidentate) and/or hydrogen‐bonding capability (AA to DD or AD to DA). This allows positional and orientational control over ligands with different ancillary sites. By using this approach, we have successfully used low‐symmetry ligands to synthesise complex heteroleptic cages, including an example with four different low‐symmetry ligands.
1‐Azaspiro[3.3]heptane as a Bioisostere of Piperidine**
Authors: Kirichok Alexander A. , Tkachuk Hennadii , Kozyriev Yevhenii , Shablykin Oleh , Datsenko Oleksandr , Granat Dmitry , Yegorova Tetyana , Bas Yuliya P. , Semirenko Vitalii , Pishel Iryna , Kubyshkin Vladimir , Lesyk Dmytro , Klymenko‐Ulianov Oleksii , Mykhailiuk Pavel K.
Published: October 2023

1‐Azaspiro[3.3]heptanes were synthesized, characterized, and validated biologically as bioisosteres of piperidine. The key synthesis step was thermal [2+2] cycloaddition between endocyclic alkenes and the Graf isocyanate, ClO2S−NCO, to give spirocyclic β‐lactams. Reduction of the β‐lactam ring with alane produced 1‐azaspiro[3.3]heptanes. Incorporation of this core into the anesthetic drug bupivacaine instead of the piperidine fragment resulted in a new patent‐free analogue with high activity.
Neuroprotective Bioorthogonal Catalysis in Mitochondria Using Protein‐Integrated Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Frameworks
Authors: Tang Jiakang , Liu Ji , Zheng Qizhen , Yao Rui , Wang Ming
Published: October 2023

Mitochondria‐targeted bioorthogonal catalysis holds promise for controlling cell function precisely, yet achieving selective and efficient chemical reactions within organelles is challenging. In this study, we introduce a new strategy using protein‐integrated hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) to enable synergistic bioorthogonal chemical catalysis and enzymatic catalysis within mitochondria. Utilizing catalytically active tris(4,4′‐dicarboxylicacid‐2,2′‐bipyridyl) ruthenium(II) to self‐assemble with [1,1′‐biphenyl]‐4,4′‐biscarboximidamide, we synthesized nanoscale RuB‐HOFs that exhibit high photocatalytic reduction activity. Notably, RuB‐HOFs efficiently enter cells and preferentially localize to mitochondria, where they facilitate bioorthogonal photoreduction reactions. Moreover, we show that RuB‐HOFs encapsulating catalase can produce hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in mitochondria through photocatalytic reduction of pro‐H2S and degrade hydrogen peroxide through enzymatic catalysis simultaneously, offering a significant neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress. Our findings not only introduce a versatile chemical toolset for mitochondria‐targeted bioorthogonal catalysis for prodrug activation but also pave the way for potential therapeutic applications in treating diseases related to cellular oxidative stress.
Photosynthesis of Benzonitriles on BiOBr Nanosheets Promoted by Vacancy Associates
Authors: Han Tong , Cao Xing , Chen Hsiao‐Chien , Ma Junguo , Yu Yuan , Li Yuhuan , Xu Wei , Sun Kaian , Huang Aijian , Chen Zheng , Chen Chen , Zhang Hongjun , Ye Bangjiao , Peng Qing , Li Yadong
Published: October 2023

Photocatalytic organic functionalization reactions represent a green, cost‐effective, and sustainable synthesis route for value‐added chemicals. However, heterogeneous photocatalysis is inefficient in directly activating ammonia molecules for the production of high‐value‐added nitrogenous organic products when compared with oxygen activation in the formation of related oxygenated compounds. In this study, we report the heterogeneous photosynthesis of benzonitriles by the ammoxidation of benzyl alcohols (99 % conversion, 93 % selectivity) promoted using BiOBr nanosheets with surface vacancy associates. In contrast, the main reaction of catalysts with other types of vacancy sites is the oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde or benzoic acid. Experimental measurements and theoretical calculations have demonstrated a specificity of vacancy type with respect to product selectivity, which arises from the adsorption and activation of NH3 and O2 that is required to promote subsequent C−N coupling and oxidation to nitrile. This study provides a better understanding of the role of vacancies as catalytic sites in heterogeneous photocatalysis.
Synergistic Interplay of Dual‐Active‐Sites on Metallic Ni‐MOFs Loaded with Pt for Thermal‐Photocatalytic Conversion of Atmospheric CO2 under Infrared Light Irradiation
Authors: Ma Weimin , Sun Jingxue , Yao Shunyu , Wang Yutao , Chen Gang , Fan Guodong , Li Yingxuan
Published: October 2023

Infrared light driven photocatalytic reduction of atmospheric CO2 is challenging due to the ultralow concentration of CO2 (0.04 %) and the low energy of infrared light. Herein, we develop a metallic nickel‐based metal–organic framework loaded with Pt (Pt/Ni‐MOF), which shows excellent activity for thermal‐photocatalytic conversion of atmospheric CO2 with H2 even under infrared light irradiation. The open Ni sites are beneficial to capture and activate atmospheric CO2, while the photogenerated electrons dominate H2 dissociation on the Pt sites. Simultaneously, thermal energy results in spilling of the dissociated H2 to Ni sites, where the adsorbed CO2 is thermally reduced to CO and CH4. The synergistic interplay of dual‐active‐sites renders Pt/Ni‐MOF a record efficiency of 9.57 % at 940 nm for converting atmospheric CO2, enables the procurement of CO2 to be independent of the emission sources, and improves the energy efficiency for trace CO2 conversion by eliminating the capture media regeneration and molecular CO2 release.
Polyurethane toughened covalent adaptive networks epoxy composite based on thermoreversible Diels‐Alder reaction: Self‐healable, shape memory, and recyclable
Authors: Li Xinfeng , Zhang Tianyi , Song Baiqing , Yang Kaili , Hao Xiaoqiong , Ma Jianhua
Published: October 2023

Covalent adaptive networks (CANs) epoxy based on the Diels‐Alder (DA) reaction usually are commonly used for self‐healing materials. However, poor toughness greatly limits its application in innovative materials. Herein, based on retaining the excellent dynamic characteristics of DA reactive CANs, we introduced thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) in situ during crosslinking, improving the composite material's strength and toughness. A multicomponent polymeric system with advanced performance can be produced by the individual components on the condition of the synergistic hybrid effects. Molecular‐level interlocking polymer networks between the chain entanglement of TPU and the reversible covalent crosslink of DFB were formed by the topological reorganization of these two immiscible polymers. As the gelation proceeds, a homogenous structure instead of conventional phase separation is formed. When the mixing ratio of DFB and TPU is 1:1, the tensile strength of the prepared sample reaches 35 MPa, and the elongation at break reaches 110%. At the same time, the composites possess good thermal stability and solvent resistance due to the presence of interlocking polymer networks. Furthermore, these DFB‐TPU composites show excellent shape memory, self‐healing, and closed‐loop recycling properties.