bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The DIVIDED SELF metaphor: A cognitive-linguistic study of two poems by Nabokov
Authors: Barreras Gómez Mª Asunción
Published: June 2015

This paper will approach two of Nabokov’s poems from the perspective of embodied realism in Cognitive Linguistics. We will shed light on the reasons why we believe that Nabokov makes use of the DIVIDED SELF metaphor in his poetry. In the analysis of the poems we will explain how the Subject is understood in the author’s life in exile whereas the Self is understood in the author’s feelings of anguish and longing for his Russian past. Finally, we will also explain how Nabokov’s use of the DIVIDED SELF metaphor thematically structures both poems.
Target frames in British hotel websites
Authors: Fuster-Márquez Miguel , Pennock-Speck Barry
Published: June 2015

This article centres on four-word phrase frames in British hospitality websites. Our aim is to identify those frames that are specific to this website genre, which we call target frames. Each phrase frame represents an identical sequence of words except for one variable word, that is A*BC or AB*D. The words that fill the slot, marked with an asterisk, are called fillers. We used a corpus-driven approach using KfNgram software to identify the phrase frames in our corpus (COMETVAL). We regard phrase frames as genre-specific when they are significantly more frequent than those found in the written section of the BNC, which represents General British English. We further filtered our selection of phrase frames by eliminating those which were not semantically homogenous with regard to the variable words they contained. Only in this way could the 76 phrase frames we identified be classified according to their primary discourse function. We contend that our study is a valuable addition to the literature on phraseology and can be of use in pedagogical and professional settings.
Rapid categorization of natural face images in the infant right hemisphere
Authors: de Heering Adélaïde , Rossion Bruno
Published: June 2015

Human performance at categorizing natural visual images surpasses automatic algorithms, but how and when this function arises and develops remain unanswered. We recorded scalp electrical brain activity in 4–6 months infants viewing images of objects in their natural background at a rapid rate of 6 images/second (6 Hz). Widely variable face images appearing every 5 stimuli generate an electrophysiological response over the right hemisphere exactly at 1.2 Hz (6 Hz/5). This face-selective response is absent for phase-scrambled images and therefore not due to low-level information. These findings indicate that right lateralized face-selective processes emerge well before reading acquisition in the infant brain, which can perform figure-ground segregation and generalize face-selective responses across changes in size, viewpoint, illumination as well as expression, age and gender. These observations made with a highly sensitive and objective approach open an avenue for clarifying the developmental course of natural image categorization in the human brain.
ATM regulation of IL-8 links oxidative stress to cancer cell migration and invasion
Authors: Chen Wei-Ta , Ebelt Nancy D , Stracker Travis H , Xhemalce Blerta , Van Den Berg Carla L , Miller Kyle M
Published: June 2015

Ataxia-telangiectasia mutated (ATM) protein kinase regulates the DNA damage response (DDR) and is associated with cancer suppression. Here we report a cancer-promoting role for ATM. ATM depletion in metastatic cancer cells reduced cell migration and invasion. Transcription analyses identified a gene network, including the chemokine IL-8, regulated by ATM. IL-8 expression required ATM and was regulated by oxidative stress. IL-8 was validated as an ATM target by its ability to rescue cell migration and invasion defects in ATM-depleted cells. Finally, ATM-depletion in human breast cancer cells reduced lung tumors in a mouse xenograft model and clinical data validated IL-8 in lung metastasis. These findings provide insights into how ATM activation by oxidative stress regulates IL-8 to sustain cell migration and invasion in cancer cells to promote metastatic potential. Thus, in addition to well-established roles in tumor suppression, these findings identify a role for ATM in tumor progression.
Babies get it right
Authors: Hadley Hillary , Scott Lisa
Published: June 2015

Infants use a region on the right side of their brain to distinguish between human faces and objects.
The Resurgence of Mpox in Africa
Authors: Rivers Caitlin , Watson Crystal , Phelan Alexandra L.
Published: August 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the current mpox outbreak in Africa and why countries worldwide must urgently act to address it after the World Health Organization declared the event a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
Individual- and Community-Level Risk Factors of Cancer-Related Financial Hardship Among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Dhir Apoorv , Stensland Kristian Donald , Herrel Lindsey Allison , Sekar Rishi Robert
Published: August 2024

This cross-sectional study estimates the prevalence of financial hardship among cancer survivors and investigates its associations with individual- and community-level characteristics.
Hydrogel‐Based Capacitive Sensor Model for Ammonium Monitoring in Aquaculture
Authors: Mirzaee Mohammad , Askari‐sedeh Mahdi , Zolfagharian Ali , Baghani Mostafa
Published: August 2024

Monitoring aquaculture water quality, especially ammonium levels affecting fish health, is challenging due to limitations in traditional methods. This study presents an innovative capacitive sensor with an ionic hydrogel transducer for real‐time ammonium concentration monitoring. The sensor operates through ammonium‐induced dissociation in the hydrogel, causing osmotic pressure changes and altering electrode capacitance. Analytical formulations verified by finite element simulations demonstrate the sensor's ability to detect varying ammonium levels. Detailed analysis covers diffusion kinetics, swelling behavior, stress distributions, voltage variations, and ion equilibrium concentrations. The findings show a 20% increase in capacitance change within 200 s, even with a 3 μM ammonium concentration exposure. Additionally, the capacitance change plateau at ammonium levels exceeding 1 mM. The presented concept offers a promising and cost‐effective approach to addressing the limitations of traditional methods, paving the way for future research and development in real‐time water quality monitoring in aquaculture systems.
Stretchable Anisotropic Conductive Film with Position‐Registered Conductive Microparticles Used for Strain‐Insensitive Ionic Interfacing in Stretchable Ionic Sensors
Authors: Park Doowon , Kwak Hyunsu , Kim Seonghyeon , Choi Hyeongseok , Lim Ighyun , Kwak Mingyu , Kim Ik‐Soo , Park Hyeji , Eom In‐Yong , Lee Jung‐Woon , Park Ikbum , Lee Anna , Jeong Unyong
Published: August 2024

Numerous approaches are explored to achieve precise position registry of microparticles (MPs) with minimal defects; however, MP assembly in a periodic pattern or an arbitrary manner has been a challenging issue over the past several decades. Utilizing the position‐registered conductive MPs, polymer composites of the MPs are used as anisotropic conductive film (ACF) and soft interfacing. One of the remaining challenges is maintaining the MP positions while producing or utilizing the ACF. This study proposes a simple strategy to produce a stretchable ACF (S‐ACF) by mechanical rubbing, without disturbing the MP positions during the production and use. A practical means of precise MP positioning on a ultraviolet (UV)‐patternable soft template is investigated first. This study investigates, through both experiment and finite element method calculation, the relationship between local adhesion of the template and mechanical rubbing variables (pressure, rubbing velocity, and MP size). Based on this exploration, a fast and simple method to fabricate large‐area S‐ACF is presented. This study demonstrates that the S‐ACF can be used for electronic interfacing in stretchable devices and for ionic interfacing to remove the effect of external mechanical force in ionic sensors.
l‐Asparaginase Bio‐Betters: Insight Into Current Formulations, Optimization Strategies and Future Bioengineering Frontiers in Anti‐Cancer Drug Development
Authors: Sonowal Sukanya , Pathak Kalyani , Das Dibyajyoti , Buragohain Kabyashree , Gogoi Ankita , Borah Nikha , Das Aparoop , Nath Ratul
Published: August 2024

Cancer remains a persistent global health concern, representing a significant challenge in medical science and patient care. In this context, l‐asparaginase has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent due to its unique ability to deplete circulating asparagine, thereby selectively targeting cancer cells. However, despite its potential, current formulations of l‐asparaginase are not without limitations. Issues such as immunogenicity, short half‐life, and variable efficacy present hurdles in its widespread clinical application. To overcome these hurdles, researchers are focusing on developing bio‐better versions of l‐asparaginase. These bio‐betters aim to enhance stability, reduce immunogenicity, and optimize enzyme kinetics, thus improving treatment outcomes. This review critically assesses the current landscape of l‐asparaginase bio‐betters, offering insights into ongoing formulations and advancements, optimization strategies, and future bio‐engineering frontiers. It discusses modifications to enhance therapeutic properties and explores innovative approaches like in‐silico enzyme engineering and artificial intelligence, highlighting their potential to improve the therapeutic profile of l‐asparaginase. Challenges and debates surrounding the l‐asparaginase mechanism are also addressed. By addressing current challenges and outlining future directions, this review aims to contribute to the advancement of anti‐cancer therapeutics, particularly in the context of l‐asparaginase bio‐better research.
Cationic Adiposomes as a Delivery System for Neogambogic Acid for the Treatment of Multiple Cancers
Authors: Zhang Gaoxin , Zhi Zelun , Pan Bin , Li Zemin , Zhang Shuyan , Wu Zhenzhen , Bu Pengcheng , Cao Zhen , Liu Pingsheng
Published: August 2024

Neogambogic acid (NGA) is a potent antitumor drug but faces significant obstacles to clinical application, including extremely poor water solubility and systemic toxicity. To overcome these obstacles, a newly developed nanoparticle, adiposome, that consists of a neutral lipid core wrapped with a phospholipid‐monolayer membrane, is utilized for the delivery of NGA. In this study, NGA‐loaded cationic adiposomes (NGA‐C‐ADs) are constructed in which NGA is encapsulated within the neutral lipid core and surrounded by phospholipids and a cationic lipid. The concentration of NGA in NGA‐C‐ADs achieved is as high as 1.0 mg mL−1, which is 2 000‐fold higher than in aqueous buffer alone. Moreover, in vitro cell tests revealed that NGA‐C‐ADs exhibited higher cytotoxicity against various cancer cell lines compared to free NGA. In addition, in vivo anti‐tumor animal studies demonstrate that NGA‐C‐ADs effectively inhibit tumor growth in subcutaneous CT26 tumor‐bearing mice and also suppress chemically‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma without obvious toxicity to major organs. These findings suggest that NGA‐C‐ADs hold promise as a potential treatment for multiple cancers.
High‐Strength, Antiswelling Directional Layered PVA/MXene Hydrogel for Wearable Devices and Underwater Sensing
Authors: Zhang Shipeng , Guo Fengmei , Gao Xue , Yang Mengdan , Huang Xinguang , Zhang Ding , Li Xinjian , Zhang Yingjiu , Shang Yuanyuan , Cao Anyuan
Published: August 2024

Hydrogel sensors are widely utilized in soft robotics and tissue engineering due to their excellent mechanical properties and biocompatibility. However, in high‐water environments, traditional hydrogels can experience significant swelling, leading to decreased mechanical and electrical performance, potentially losing shape, and sensing capabilities. This study addresses these challenges by leveraging the Hofmeister effect, coupled with directional freezing and salting‐out techniques, to develop a layered, high‐strength, tough, and antiswelling PVA/MXene hydrogel. In particular, the salting‐out process enhances the self‐entanglement of PVA, resulting in an S‐PM hydrogel with a tensile strength of up to 2.87 MPa. Furthermore, the S‐PM hydrogel retains its structure and strength after 7 d of swelling, with only a 6% change in resistance. Importantly, its sensing performance is improved postswelling, a capability rarely achievable in traditional hydrogels. Moreover, the S‐PM hydrogel demonstrates faster response times and more stable resistance change rates in underwater tests, making it crucial for long‐term continuous monitoring in challenging aquatic environments, ensuring sustained operation and monitoring.
Interpretability of operative and pathological reports for radiotherapy planning of sinonasal carcinomas: An ancillary study of the GORTEC 2016‐02 SANTAL trial
Authors: Labarre Coline , Carsuzaa Florent , Fieux Maxime , Verillaud Benjamin , Moya Plana Antoine , de Gabory Ludovic , Patron Vincent , Ferrand Francois‐Régis , Thariat Juliette
Published: August 2024

Key points

Interpretation of surgical mapping is essential for postoperative radiotherapy planning.

Operative and pathological reports lack comprehensive information on margins quality and tissue block mapping.

Standardizing reports is essential to reduce uncertainties, aiming for less morbid poRT.
Plasma‐Enabled Process with Single‐Atom Catalysts for Sustainable Plastic Waste Transformation
Authors: Yu Xiao , Rao Zhiqiang , Chen Guoxing , Yang Yuantao , Yoon Songhak , Liu Lina , Huang Zeai , Widenmeyer Marc , Guo Heng , Homm Gert , Kunz Ulrike , Liu Xingmin , Ionescu Emanuel , Molina‐Luna Leopoldo , Tu Xin , Zhou Ying , Weidenkaff Anke
Published: August 2024

The escalating issue of plastic waste generation has prompted the search for an effective solution to address these challenges. In this study, we present a novel plasma‐enabled strategy for the rapid breakdown of various types of plastic wastes, including mixtures, into high‐value carbon nanomaterials and hydrogen. The H2 yield and selectivity achieved through the implemented catalyst‐free plasma‐enabled strategy are 14.2 and 5.9 times higher, respectively, compared to those obtained with conventional thermal pyrolysis under similar conditions. It is noteworthy that this catalyst‐free plasma alone approach yields a significantly higher energy yield of H2 (gH2/kWh) compared to other pyrolysis processes. By coupling plasma pyrolysis with thermal catalytic process, employing of 1 wt . % M/CeO2 (M=Fe, Co, and Ni) atomically dispersed catalysts can further enhance hydrogen production. Specifically, the 1 wt . % Co/CeO2 catalyst demonstrated excellent catalytic performance throughout the 10 cycles of plastic waste decomposition, achieving the highest H2 yield of 46.7 mmol/gplastic (equivalent to 64.4 % of theoretical H2 production) and nearly 100 % hydrogen atom recovery efficiency at the 7th cycle. Notably, the H2 yield achieved over the atomically dispersed Fe on CeO2 surface (1 wt . % Fe/CeO2) in the integrated plasma‐thermal catalytic process is comparable to that obtained with Fe particles on CeO2 surface (10 wt . % Fe/CeO2). This outcome, demonstrated with single‐atom catalysts, offers a promising avenue for cost‐effective and efficient chemical plastic recycling. Through a combination of experimental and computational efforts, we have provided an in‐depth understanding of the catalytic mechanisms of the investigated single atom catalysts in the developed plasma‐enabled process. This innovative and straightforward approach provides a promising and expedient strategy for continuously converting diverse plastic waste streams, including mixed and contaminated sources, into high‐value products conducive to a circular plastic economy.
Proton‐Driven Dynamic Behavior of Nanoconfined Water in Hydrophilic MXene Sheets
Authors: Hou Pengfei , Tian Yumiao , Xie Yu , Li Quan , Chen Gang , Du Fei , Wu Jianzhong , Ma Yanming , Meng Xing
Published: August 2024

Liquid water under nanoscale confinement has attracted intensive attention due to its pivotal role in understanding various phenomena across many scientific fields. MXenes serve an ideal paradigm for investigating the dynamic behaviors of nanoconfined water in a hydrophilic environment. Combining deep neural networks and an active learning scheme, here we elucidate the proton‐driven dynamics of water molecules confined between V2CTx sheets using molecular dynamics simulation. Firstly, we have found that the Eigen and Zundel cations can inhibit water‐induced oxidation by adjusting the orientation of water molecules, thus proposing a general antioxidant strategy. Besides, we also identified a hexagonal ice phase with abnormal bonding rules at room temperature, rather than only at ultralow temperatures as other studies reported, and further captured the proton‐induced water phase transition. This highlighted the importance of protons in the maintaining stable crystal phase and phase transition of water. Furthermore, we discussed the conversions of different water structures and water diffusivity with changing proton concentrations in detail. The results provide useful guidance in practical applications of MXenes including developing antioxidant strategies, identifying novel 2D water phases and optimizing energy storage and conversion.
Triazole‐, piperazine‐, and DOPO‐containing eugenol‐based reactive flame retardant for unsaturated polyester resin
Authors: Ozukanar Ozge , Sagdic Gokhan , Çakmakçı Emrah , Özmen Fadime Karaer , Üreyen Mustafa E. , Gunay Ufuk Saim , Durmaz Hakan , Kumbaraci Volkan
Published: August 2024

The flammability of unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) limits their applications. Herein, a reactive P‐ and N‐containing flame retardant (DPET) having triazole and piperazine rings is reported. The 9,10‐Dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene 10‐oxide (DOPO) was used to introduce P atoms, and eugenol was used to import reactive double bonds to DPET. Different ratios of DPET were mixed with a commercial UPR and the thermal, mechanical, optical, and flame retardancy properties were measured. The addition of 15% of DPET into neat UPR led to a decrease in the water contact angle from 70° ± 2 to 61° ± 2. The gel content values of the UPRs were found to change between 97.5% and 89%. The optical properties of the UPR were adversely affected by the incorporation of DPET. The modulus of the DPET‐containing UPRs increased with increasing amount of DPET and 15% of DPET‐containing UPR displayed a modulus value of 1784 ± 86 MPa. When 15% DPET was added to neat UPR, char yields were increased (from 5.6% to 16.6%). Limiting oxygen index (LOI) values increased with increasing amounts of DPET and reached up to 23.4%. Micro cone calorimeter (MCC) test results showed up to a 20.5% reduction in the peak heat release rate (PHRR) of the UPR when 15% DPET was added.
From mind‐deadness to mindedness, from collaboration to cooperation
Authors: Amir Dana
Published: August 2024

Looking at the October 7, 2023, events in Israel, this paper suggests a unique configuration of Bion's minus links, called "broken links." The broken links not only represent a negation of a connection—but also a negation of the object. When the link of Love is broken, it is replaced by a unique formation of Love without an object, in which the lack‐of‐object installs itself as the sole object, replacing the work of mourning with pseudo, blank mourning. When the link of Hate is broken, the result is a murderous version of hatred, one that exceeds any proportion or context. When the link of Knowledge is broken, what ensues is a language that functions as a sealing material: instead of signifying and making differences, it drives to overgeneralize, erase differences, and remove distinctions, losing its metaphorical qualities and reducing to its literal meaning. These broken links lead to another twisted link: the link of solidarity, turning positive solidarity, which is based on cooperation—into negative solidarity, based on collaboration. The discussion suggests the shift from the state of mind‐deadness, characterizing broken links on both sides of the conflict, to the state of mindedness, in which the links are reclaimed and restored.
Muscle Tissue Transcriptome of Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathy Reflects the Muscle Damage Process by Monocytes and Presence of Skin Lesions
Authors: Izuka Shinji , Umezawa Natsuka , Komai Toshihiko , Sugimori Yusuke , Kimura Naoki , Mizoguchi Fumitaka , Fujieda Yuichiro , Ninagawa Keita , Iwasaki Takeshi , Suzuki Katsuya , Takeuchi Tsutomu , Ohmura Koichiro , Mimori Tsuneyo , Atsumi Tatsuya , Kawakami Eiryo , Suzuki Akari , Kochi Yuta , Yamamoto Kazuhiko , Yasuda Shinsuke , Okamura Tomohisa , Ota Mineto , Fujio Keishi
Published: August 2024

Objective

We aim to investigate transcriptomic and immunophenotypic features of muscle specimens from patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathy (IIM).

Methods

Bulk RNA‐sequencing was performed on muscle biopsy samples from 16 patients with dermatomyositis (DM) and 9 patients with polymyositis (PM). Seven tested positive for anti‐aminoacyl transfer RNA synthetase antibodies in the patients with DM (ARS‐DM). We conducted weighted gene coexpression network analysis (WGCNA), differentially expressed gene (DEG) analysis, and gene set variation analysis to assess contributions of specific pathways. Cell proportions in muscle specimens were estimated using a deconvolution approach.

Results

WGCNA revealed significant positive correlations between serum creatine kinase (CK) levels and gene modules involved in cellular respiration, phagocytosis, and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Significant positive correlations were also observed between CK levels and proportions of CD16‐positive and negative monocytes and myeloid dendritic cells. Notably, patients with DM demonstrated enrichment of complement and interferon‐α and γ pathway genes compared with those with PM. Furthermore, ARS‐DM demonstrated a higher proportion of Th1 cells and DEGs related to OXPHOS. Additionally, serum Krebs von den Lungen‐6 levels correlated with gene modules associated with extracellular matrix and the transforming growth factor‐β signaling pathway.

Conclusion

Our study highlights a significant involvement of monocytes in muscle damage and delineates pathologic differences among IIM subtypes. DM was characterized by complement and interferon‐α and γ signaling, whereas ARS‐DM was associated with OXPHOS. Distinctive gene expression variations in muscle specimens suggest that different pathologic mechanisms underlie muscle damage in each IIM phenotype.

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Motor, cognitive, and socio‐cognitive mechanisms explaining social skills in autism and typical development
Authors: Estrugo Yael , Bar Yehuda Shahar , Bauminger‐Zviely Nirit
Published: August 2024

Challenges in social functioning are considered a core criterion for diagnosing autism. Although motor skills, executive functioning (EF), and theory of mind (ToM) abilities independently affect social challenges and are interconnected, these abilities' shared contribution to the explanation of social functioning in autism remains under‐investigated. To address this disparity, we examined the motor, EF, and ToM abilities of 148 autistic and non‐autistic youth (ages 6–16 years), evaluating these variables' impact on social ability and their interconnections. Our mediation model exploring the contribution of motor, EF, and ToM skills explained 85% of the variance in social functioning (Social Responsiveness Scale—SRS‐2). Analysis yielded a direct path from study group to SRS‐2‐social (typically developing‐TD > autistic) and two main parallel indirect joint paths: (a) Group ➔ motor ➔ EF ➔ SRS‐2‐social; and (b) Group ➔ motor ➔ ToM ➔ SRS‐2‐social. In two secondary indirect paths, autistic children showed lower motor skills, which in turn explained their higher EF and/or ToM impairment, which in turn explained their higher social skills impairment. Put differently, our results suggest that better EF and TOM proficiency may compensate for poorer motor skills. Findings also indicated that the collective impact of motor, EF, and ToM skills on social functioning, along with the mediating role played by EF and ToM on the social‐motor linkage, may contribute to understanding individual differences in the social functioning of autistic children. These conclusions call for the inclusion of motor, EF, and ToM activities into daily practices to facilitate social functioning.
Development and validation of a nomogram model for predicting venous thromboembolism risk in lung cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: A cohort study in China
Authors: Liang Guanzhong , Hu Zuhai , Xu Qianjie , Wang Guixue , Wang Ying , Li Xiaosheng , Zhang Wei , Lei Haike
Published: August 2024

Objective

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) poses a significant threat to lung cancer patients, particularly those receiving treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). We aimed to develop and validate a nomogram model for predicting the occurrence of VTE in lung cancer patients undergoing ICI therapy.

Methods

The data for this retrospective cohort study was collected from cancer patients admitted to Chongqing University Cancer Hospital for ICI treatment between 2019 and 2022. The research data is divided into training and validation sets using a 7:3 ratio. Univariate and multivariate analyses were employed to identify risk factors for VTE. Based on these analyses, along with clinical expertise, a nomogram model was crafted. The model's predictive accuracy was assessed through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves, calibration curves, decision curve analysis, clinical impact curve, and other relevant metrics.

Results

The initial univariate analysis pinpointed 13 potential risk factors for VTE. The subsequent stepwise multivariate regression analysis identified age, Karnofsky performance status, chemotherapy, targeted, platelet count, lactate dehydrogenase, monoamine oxidase, D‐dimer, fibrinogen, and white blood cell count as significant predictors of VTE. These 10 variables were the foundation for a predictive model, illustrated by a clear and intuitive nomogram. The model's discriminative ability was demonstrated by the ROC curve, which showed an area under the curve of 0.815 (95% CI 0.772–0.858) for the training set, and 0.753 (95% CI 0.672–0.835) for the validation set. The model's accuracy was further supported by Brier scores of 0.068 and 0.080 for the training and validation sets, respectively, indicating a strong correlation with actual outcomes.

Conclusion

We have successfully established and validated a nomogram model for predicting VTE risk in lung cancer patients treated with ICIs.
Avatar effect of AI‐enabled virtual streamers on consumer purchase intention in e‐commerce livestreaming
Authors: Sun Luping , Tang Yanfei
Published: August 2024

In recent years, digital avatars employed as virtual streamers are experiencing a surge in popularity in e‐commerce livestreaming. However, the influence of the avatars' anthropomorphic features on their effectiveness as virtual streamers remains unclear. This study investigates the avatar effect of artificial intelligence‐enabled virtual streamers, wherein their form and behavioral realism interactively affect consumer purchase intention. Three lab experiments with 604 participants were conducted to test this effect and its underlying mechanism and boundary conditions. Based on the findings, behavioral realism positively affects consumer purchase intention only when the virtual streamers' form realism is low. Parasocial interactions underpin this avatar effect, which only holds when consumers exhibit a communal relationship norm orientation. When consumers possess an exchange relationship norm orientation, the effect of behavioral realism becomes positive regardless of the level of form realism. Overall, our study proposes an avatar effect in livestreaming, and extends the literature by offering insights on the interactive effect of the anthropomorphic features of human‐like avatars (as virtual streamers) on the effectiveness of e‐commerce livestreaming. By revealing the mechanisms and boundary conditions of this effect, our conclusions offer guidance for companies in developing appropriate combinations of form and behavioral realism for the avatars of virtual streams while considering consumer characteristics.
Rh‐Catalyzed Hydroamination of Allenes: Asymmetric N‐Allylation of Amino Acids and Peptides
Authors: Damer Edward , Breit Bernhard
Published: August 2024

In the growing field of peptidomimetics, there is a constant need for new synthetic methods to generate new bioactive compounds. Herein, we present an atom‐economic approach for the branched‐selective allylation of aliphatic amine moieties of α‐amino acids and small oligopeptides. This Rh‐catalyzed hydroamination of allenes with a commercially available ligand forms a new stereocenter, often chemoselectively, in a catalyst‐controlled manner, providing high yields and stereoselectivities without the need for an additive. The method is shown to be effective in gram scale without the need for column chromatography for purification, and ready‐to‐use allylated substrates for solid‐phase peptide synthesis can be synthesized in two steps from the products of the catalysis.
Interrogating Explicit Solvent Effects on the Mechanism and Site‐Selectivity of Aryl Halide Oxidative Addition to L2Pd(0)
Authors: Lu Jingru , Celuszak Holly , Paci Irina , Leitch David C.
Published: August 2024

We report a study of solvent effects on the rate, selectivity, and mechanism of (hetero)aryl (pseudo)halide oxidative addition to Pd(PCy3)2 as an exemplar of L2Pd(0) species. First, 2‐chloro‐3‐aminopyridine is observed to undergo faster oxidative addition in toluene compared to more polar solvents, which is not consistent with the trend we observe with many other 2‐halopyridines. We attribute this to solvent basicity hydrogen bonding between solvent and substrate. Greater hydrogen bond donation from the substrate leads to a more electron‐rich aromatic system, and therefore slower oxidative addition. We demonstrate how this affects rate and site‐selectivity for hydrogen bond donating substrates. Second, electron‐deficient multihalogenated pyridines exhibit improved site‐selectivity in polar solvents, which we attribute to different C−X sites undergoing oxidative addition by two different mechanisms. The C−X site that favours the more polar nucleophilic displacement transition state is preferred over the site that favours a less‐polar 3‐centered transition state. Finally, (hetero)aryl triflates consistently undergo faster oxidative addition in more polar solvents, which we attribute to highly polar nucleophilic displacement transition states. This leads to improved site‐selectivity for C−OTf oxidative addition, even in the presence of highly reactive 2‐pyridyl halides.
Dynamics of pH Oscillators in Continuous Stirred Tanks in Series
Authors: Galanics Csenge , Szalai István
Published: August 2024

Complex reaction networks with positive and negative feedback can produce diverse nonlinear phenomena in open reactors, such as multistability and oscillations. pH oscillators driven by hydrogen or hydroxide autocatalytic processes show sustained oscillations in continuously stirred tank reactors (CSTR) but only a sharp pH switch in batch. Here, we present a numerical study on the dynamics of pH oscillators in a series of CSTRs. We show a critical residence time under which bistability and above which oscillations develop. The dynamics of the CSTR cascade show the cross‐shaped phase diagram of nonlinear activatory inhibitory systems. In the domain of oscillations, one reactor starts to oscillate autonomously and induces forced complex oscillations in the following tanks with damped amplitudes. These results, with their practical implications, may contribute to understanding the recent experimental observations of nonlinear phenomena in the presence of a residence time ramp and inspire further research in this area.
Reactivity of Atomic Oxygen Radical Anions in Metal Oxide Clusters
Authors: Zhao Xi‐Guan , Zhao Yan‐Xia , He Sheng‐Gui
Published: August 2024

Atomic oxygen radical anion (O⋅−) represents an important type of reactive centre that exists in both chemical and biological systems. Gas‐phase atomic clusters can be studied under isolated and well controlled conditions. Studies of O⋅−‐containing clusters in the gas‐phase provide a unique strategy to interpret the chemistry of O⋅− radicals at a strictly molecular level. This review summarizes the research progresses made since 2013 for the reactivity of O⋅− radicals in the atomically precise metal oxide clusters including negatively charged, nanosized, and neutral heteronuclear metal clusters benefitting from the development of advanced experimental techniques. New electronic and geometric factors to control the reactivity and product selectivity of O⋅− radicals under dark and photo‐irradiation conditions have been revealed. The detailed mechanisms of O⋅− generation have been discussed for the reaction systems of nanosized and heteroatom‐doped metal oxide clusters. The catalytic reactions mediated by the O⋅− radicals in metal clusters have also been successfully established and the microscopic mechanisms about the dynamic generation and depletion of O⋅− radicals have been clearly understood. The studies of O⋅− containing metal oxide clusters in the gas‐phase provided new insights into the chemistry of reactive oxygen species in related condensed‐phase systems.
Variability in predicted deleterious mutations among barley accessions conserved ex situ
Authors: Fu Yong‐Bi
Published: August 2024

Understanding the genetic cost for long‐term conservation of more than 7 million plant germplasm accessions in 1750 genebanks worldwide requires knowledge about the extent and variation of deleterious mutations within and among conserved germplasm collections. Our recent study revealed a wide range of mutations predicted to be deleterious to gene function and averaged sample‐wise mutation burden per deleterious locus across barley, wheat, oat, soybean, maize, rapa, and sunflower germplasm collections. Here we report the extent and variation of predicted deleterious mutations among nine accessions of a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) collection from an RNA‐Seq analysis of 16 individual samples of each accession. The assayed accessions were found to vary significantly in the number and proportion of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) predicted to be deleterious mutations (ranging from 242 to 314 with a mean of 270 and from 0.00073 to 0.00099 with a mean of 0.00086, respectively). Similarly, a significant variation was also observed in the averaged sample‐wise mutation burden estimates per deleterious locus, ranging from 0.541 to 0.747 with a mean of 0.681. Cultivar accessions had higher averages in the proportions of the predicted deleterious SNPs and in the averaged sample‐wise mutation burden estimates than landrace accessions (0.00090 vs. 0.00082 and 0.695 vs. 0.663, respectively). The estimates of deleterious base‐substitution mutations (×10−8) for the nine accessions varied from 0.313 to 0.406 with a mean of 0.349. These within‐collection findings are useful for understanding the genetic cost in conserved germplasm and have implications for long‐term germplasm management and conservation.
An improved modulation algorithm for the dual‐output six‐switch inverter with reduced switching frequency
Authors: Li Xiangfeng , Yang Zetao , Guo Fang , Liao Hui
Published: August 2024

The six‐switch inverter has gained significant attention due to its ability to achieve dual AC voltage outputs with fewer semiconductor power devices. However, with existing pulse width modulation (PWM) algorithms, the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices is twice that of the other four power devices at the upper and lower ends. Therefore, this paper proposes an improved PWM algorithm for the six‐switch converter based on the unipolar modulation principle. The proposed algorithm can significantly reduce the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices. Research results indicate that, under optimal conditions, the switching frequency of the two middle‐position power devices is as low as the frequency of the AC output voltages, and in the worst‐case scenario, it is only half the carrier frequency. Consequently, the efficiency of the inverter is effectively improved. Additionally, analysis results suggest that, given the same switching frequencies of power devices, the modulation algorithm proposed in this paper for controlling the converter also results in lower Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) for the output voltages compared to traditional modulation algorithms.
Design of the non‐associative learning memristive circuit and the application to brightness adaptation
Authors: Lin Mi , Zhou Zhangzhi , Zhou Xuanxuan , Zhang Chong
Published: August 2024

Non‐associative learning plays an important role in the biological and cognitive systems and is one of the important pathways for unsupervised learning in biology. The proposed non‐associative learning memristive circuit is composed of a synapse module, a memristive neuron module, and a response boosting module. The circuit can simulate the characteristics of habituation and sensitization, which attenuates the output response when receiving repeated input stimuli and augments the output response when receiving strong input stimuli, and the circuit also has a certain anti‐interference ability. Additionally, the designed circuit is suitable for adaptive replication experiments in visual systems and automatic exposure compensation systems, demonstrating the practicality of the circuit.
Optically transparent coplanar wideband antenna for vehicular communication
Authors: Shanmuganathan Shanmathi , Kanagasabai Malathi , Alsath M. Gulam Nabi , Ramadoss Shini , Palaniswamy Sandeep Kumar
Published: August 2024

The presented state of the art is a novel coplanar optically transparent antenna designed to operate in extended GSM, L‐band, and UWB applications for vehicular communication. The presented radiator operates using a coplanar waveguide feed mechanism without a separate ground plane layer with a minimal conductive surface to enhance the transparency of the proposed antenna. The proposed antenna design has dimensions of 40 × 20 mm2, and a transparent material of soda–lime glass is used as a substrate with a dielectric constant of 7. The radiating element over the substrate is the conductive film fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) with a sheet resistance of 7 Ω/sq. The operating frequency range of the designed antenna is from 0.86 to 14.45 GHz, which encloses the E‐GSM (900 MHz), L‐band (1–2 GHz), and UWB (3.1–10.6 GHz) frequencies. The peak gains at the operating frequencies are 1, 1.6, and 4.34 dBi, respectively. The designed antenna is fabricated and measured, and the performance metrics are plotted and compared. Since the transparent antenna is designed, the tendency of a substance to conduct light is measured as the optical transmittance, and it is calculated as 95% in the glass reference and 82% in the air reference.
Asiaticoside enhances the effect of propofol on the invasion, ferroptosis and immune escape of bladder cancer
Authors: Jin Ming , He Kun , Zhen Shuqing , Wang Yanqiao , Guo Huifang , Shen Hongxia , Ping Fumin
Published: August 2024

Bladder cancer is a highly prevalent malignancy. Asiaticoside (AC), a triterpenoid derivative, exhibits antitumor effect on different tumors. This study aimed to explore the role and mechanism of AC on bladder cancer. J82 and T24 cells were treated with AC and/or propofol, and nude mice were subcutaneously administrated with T24 cells. The effect and mechanism of AC and/or propofol were explored by cell counting kit‐8, transwell, flow cytometry, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, immunohistochemistry and western blot assays both in vitro and in vivo. Cell viability of J82 and T24 cells was inhibited by AC with a IC50 value of 2.43 μM and 2.16 μM, and by propofol with a IC50 value of 42.51 μM and 48.37 μM, respectively. AC or propofol alone decreased cell proliferation, invasion, and immune escape with the increased ferroptosis, as well as downregulating the level of the PI3K/AKT pathway in both animal and cell experiments. The effect of propofol on the above‐mentioned indicators was further enhanced with the co‐treatment of AC in vitro and in vivo. Taken together, AC promoted the ameliorative effect of propofol on bladder cancer involved in PI3K/AKT pathway.
Changing trends in anabolic‐androgenic steroid use within Scottish prisons: Detection, prevalence, and quantitation
Authors: Norman Caitlyn , Harries Richard L. , Reid Robert , Nisbet Lorna A. , Nic Daéid Niamh
Published: August 2024

Anabolic‐androgenic steroids (AASs) are a subclassification of image performance enhancing drugs (IPEDs). While AAS use is most prevalent among people in athletics, there is also high lifetime prevalence of AAS use among prisoners. This study reports the qualitative detection of AASs in seized samples from the Scottish prisons from 2019–2023. Additionally, methods were developed for the quantitative analysis of AASs using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and applied to 61 samples of tablets or powders seized from Scottish prisons between July 2022 and July 2023. Since 2022, there has been an increase in AAS detections in the Scottish prisons. Oxymetholone was the most prevalent AAS, followed by metandienone (methandrostenolone, methandienone), methyltestosterone, oxandrolone, mestanolone (methylandrostanolone), stanozolol, and androstenedione. Multiple AASs were found in 21 samples and 10 samples contained other drugs, including amitriptyline, sertraline, zopiclone, mirtazapine, sildenafil, etizolam, Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol, and the synthetic cannabinoid MDMB‐INACA. Most AAS samples were tablets (77.0%), although they were also detected in powders, herbal material, e‐cigarettes, and a fragmented soap bar‐type sample. There was a large variation in the concentration of AASs in the tablets and powders seized from the Scottish prisons, demonstrating AASs are another highly variable component of the polydrug use situation in prisons, the effects of which need to be examined further.
Insects in temperate urban parks face stronger selection pressure from the cold than the heat
Authors: Bujan Jelena , Bertelsmeier Cleo , Ješovnik Ana
Published: August 2024

Urban areas experience higher temperatures compared to rural areas and as such, are increasingly considered places of acclimatization and adaptation to warming. Small ectotherms, such as insects, whose body temperature rises with habitat temperature, are directly affected by temperature changes. Thus, warming could have a profound effect on insect behavior and physiology. To test if the urban heat island effect drives higher thermal tolerance and activity changes, we used globally distributed and abundant insects—ants. We measured the heat and cold tolerance of 14 ant species distributed across urban and peri‐urban areas. As thermal traits are often correlated with ant foraging, we measured foraging activity during three consecutive years across eight sites. Contrary to our prediction, ants exposed to the urban heat island effect did not have a higher heat tolerance than peri‐urban ants. Instead, cold tolerance varied across habitats, with ants from the cooler, peri‐urban habitats being able to tolerate lower temperatures. We recorded the same pattern of invariant heat and higher cold tolerance for ants in the canopy, compared to ground nesting ants. Ant activity was almost 10 times higher in urban sites and best predicted by cold, not heat tolerance. These unexpected results suggest that we need to rethink predictions about urban heat islands increasing insect heat tolerance in urban habitats, as cold tolerance might be a more plastic or adaptable trait, particularly in the temperate zone.
Large carpenter bees show high dispersal in a tropical semi‐arid region susceptible to desertification
Authors: Brasil Sandara N. R. , Araujo Francisca Soares , Brelsford Alan , Faria Christiana M. A. , Zanette Lorenzo R. S. , Woodard S. Hollis
Published: August 2024

Desertification is a major threat to biodiversity in arid areas of the world, partly because many organisms in these regions already exist at or near the limits of their movement and physiology. Here, we used molecular data to investigate patterns of persistence and dispersal in an ecologically and economically important carpenter bee (Xylocopa grisescens Lepeletier) found throughout the semiarid Caatinga region of Brazil. We used a genome‐wide approach (double digest restriction‐site associated DNA, ddRAD) to gather genetic data from bees sampled from eight sites within a semiarid region subject to desertification in Northeastern Brazil. Across all populations, we observed a consistent heterozygosity and effective population size deficit along with low genetic differentiation. We did not find strong evidence of dispersal limitations caused by desertification in this study system despite data collection from sites up to 300 km distant. Thus, our data suggest that human‐mediated changes in the Caatinga, such as habitat loss, have impacted the population genetic patterns of X. grisescens. However, these impacts have also been softened by the species' biological characteristics, such as its relatively high capacity for movement. This study provides insights into how habitat changes might impact the long‐term survival of large solitary bees.
An ant‐mimicking ant on an oceanic archipelago: Camponotus guanchus mimics Crematogaster alluaudi—An analogy with the situation of Camponotus lateralis (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Pérez‐Delgado Antonio J. , Wagner Herbert C.
Published: August 2024

Mimicry, that is, the imitation of any unpalatable or defensive species by another, has been of central interest to evolutionary research since Darwin's lifetime. Two ant species, Camponotus guanchus Santschi, 1908 and Crematogaster alluaudi Emery, 1893, endemic to the Canary Islands, occur in two color‐morphs: While the head of workers is always reddish and the gaster blackish, the mesosoma (inclusive waist) is either fully reddish or fully blackish. In addition to the obvious morphological and coloration similarities, we provide evidence of mimicry: (i) Ca. guanchus was found only within the area of Cr. alluaudi. (ii) Color morphs are geographically non‐randomly distributed: Workers of both species from 16 localities of syntopic occurrences shared in eight cases a blackish and in eight cases a reddish mesosoma. Hence, Ca. guanchus mimics both local color‐morphs of Cr. alluaudi. We consider a fascinating analogy with the Mediterranean mimicry system in Camponotus lateralis (Olivier, 1792) and its model species of the Crematogaster scutellaris (Olivier, 1792) group on an island scale. Additionally, we present two endemic bug species, Perenotus stysi (Ribes et al., 2008) and P. malobae Roca‐Cusachs & Goula, 2016, as mimics of those Cr. alluaudi workers having a reddish mesosoma. Our distribution, coloration, frequency, and behavioral data as well as the analogy with Ca. lateralis and the Cr. scutellaris group suggest a Batesian‐mimicry system in which Ca. guanchus, Perenotus stysi, and P. malobae mimic the unpalatable and aggressive Cr. alluaudi as an antipredator adaptation.