bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Divergent Synthesis of Naphthalenone Spiroindanediones or 4‐Acyl‐1‐naphthols from Aryl Enaminones Featuring Reuse of Dimethylamine
Authors: Yang Chun , Li Bin , Zhang Xinying , Fan Xuesen
Published: May 2024

Presented herein is a switchable synthesis of naphthalenone spiroindanediones or 4‐acyl‐1‐naphthols via condition‐controlled divergent cascade reactions of aryl enaminones with diazoindanediones. When the reaction was carried out in the presence of an oxidative additive, naphthalenone spiroindanedione was formed through C(sp2)−H alkylation followed by simultaneous spiroannulation and elimination of dimethylamine. When the reaction was carried out in the presence of an acid additive, on the other hand, 4‐acyl‐1‐naphthol was formed through ring opening of the spiroindanedione moiety attacked by the in situ released dimethylamine. In addition, the reactions are suitable for gram‐scale applications and compatible with a variety of substrates. Moreover, the naphthol products allow structural elaborations and hybridization with a drug, thus further enhancing the value of this developed method.
Discovering farmers’ views of on‐farm precision experimentation
Authors: Tibbs Reagen G. , Boerngen Maria A.
Published: May 2024

Precision agriculture technologies (PATs) have revolutionized agriculture production and provide many benefits to farmers. Among these benefits is the ability to conduct experiments using PATs and collaborate with researchers in a process known as on‐farm precision experimentation (OFPE). OFPE is a citizen‐science approach that fosters relationships and knowledge‐sharing to address challenges of mutual interest. While the literature on precision agriculture is extensive, little research has addressed farmers’ willingness to conduct OFPE with researchers. Interviews with 11 Illinois farmers revealed high adoption rates of PATs. Interest in collaborating with researchers to conduct OFPE was mixed, with farmers identifying clear channels of communication as the most important factor in their decision to collaborate. While additional study is needed among the larger farming community, these initial insights may contribute to the larger effort to encourage greater collaboration between researchers and farmers to find real‐world solutions to agronomic, economic, and environmental challenges.

Core Ideas

Precision agriculture technologies (PATs) allow farmers to engage in on‐farm precision experimentation (OFPE).

OFPE fosters farmer and researcher collaboration to help address agronomic challenges.

This study provides initial insight into farmers’ perceptions of and interest in OFPE.
A milder form of NSRP1‐associated neurodevelopmental disorder, caused by a missense variant in the nuclear localization signal
Authors: Neuens Sebastian , Kausar Maiza , Kang Sun‐Kyoung , Soblet Julie , Van Dooren Sonia , Olsen Catharina , Janssen Toon , Caljon Ben , Jun Chang‐Duk , Smits Guillaume , Coppens Sandra , Vilain Catheline
Published: May 2024

Nuclear Speckle Splicing Regulator Protein 1 (NSRP1) is a splice factor found in nuclear speckles, which are small membrane‐free organelles implicated in epigenetic regulation, chromatin organization, DNA repair, and RNA modification. Bi‐allelic loss‐of‐function variants in NSRP1 have recently been identified in patients suffering from a severe neurodevelopmental disorder, presenting with neurodevelopmental delay, epilepsy, microcephaly, hypotonia, and spastic cerebral palsy. Described patients acquired neither independent walking nor speech and often showed anomalies on cerebral MRI. Here we describe the case of a 14‐year‐old girl with motor and language delay as well as intellectual disability, who presents an ataxic gait but walks without assistance and speaks in short sentences. Whole‐genome sequencing revealed the compound heterozygous NSRP1 variants c.114 + 2T > G and c.1595T > A (p.Val532Glu). Functional validation using HEK293T cells transfected with either wild‐type or mutated GFP‐tagged Nsrp1 suggests that the Val532Glu variant interferes with the function of the nuclear localization signal, and leads to mislocalization of NSRP1 in the cytosol, thus confirming the pathogenicity of the observed variant. This case helps to expand the phenotypic and genetic spectrum associated with pathogenic NSRP1 variants and indicates that this diagnosis should also be suspected in patients with milder phenotypes.
“Brain‐IT”: Exergame training with biofeedback breathing in neurocognitive disorders
Authors: Manser Patrick , de Bruin Eling D.
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION

The combination of exergame‐based motor‐cognitive training with resonance breathing guided by heart‐rate variability biofeedback (HRV‐BF) targets various relevant mechanisms of action to alleviate the pathological state in mild neurocognitive disorders (mNCD).

METHODS

This randomized controlled trial (RCT) investigated the effectiveness of adding this novel intervention approach to usual care in mNCD. The individualized intervention was delivered via the “Brain‐IT” training concept, which was iteratively co‐designed, tested, and refined with patient and public involvement.

RESULTS

We observed statistically significant effects with large effect sizes for global cognitive performance, immediate verbal recall, and delayed verbal recall in favor of the intervention group. Fifty‐five percent of participants showed a clinically relevant improvement in response to training.

DISCUSSION

Confirmatory RCTs are warranted to investigate whether the observed improvements in cognitive performance translate to affecting the rates of progression to or onset of dementia and test the implementation of the training in clinical practice.

Highlights

We proposed a novel intervention approach for mild neurocognitive disorders.

It combines exergame‐based training with biofeedback‐guided resonance breathing.

Our results confirm the effectiveness of this approach.

Fifty‐five percent of participants showed a clinically relevant improvement in response to training.
Chemoselective Proteomics, Zinc Fingers, and a Zinc(II) Model for H2S Mediated Persulfidation
Authors: Stoltzfus Andrew T. , Ballot Jasper G. , Vignane Thibaut , Li Haoju , Worth Madison M. , Muller Ludovic , Siegler Maxime A. , Kane Maureen A. , Filipovic Milos R. , Goldberg David P. , Michel Sarah L. J.
Published: May 2024

The gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is thought to be involved in the post‐translational modification of cysteine residues to produce reactive persulfides. A persulfide‐specific chemoselective proteomics approach with mammalian cells has identified a broad range of zinc finger (ZF) proteins as targets of persulfidation. Parallel studies with isolated ZFs show that persulfidation is mediated by ZnII, O2, and H2S, with intermediates involving oxygen‐ and sulfur‐based radicals detected by mass spectrometry and optical spectroscopies. A small molecule ZnII complex exhibits analogous reactivity with H2S and O2, giving a persulfidated product. These data show that ZnII is not just a biological structural element, but also plays a critical role in mediating H2S‐dependent persulfidation. ZF persulfidation appears to be a general post‐translational modification and a possible conduit for H2S signaling. This work has implications for our understanding of H2S‐mediated signaling and the regulation of ZFs in cellular physiology and development.
Development of Ti3C2Tx‐based novel immunosensor for cancer biomarker detection
Authors: Sweety  , Kumar Devendra
Published: May 2024

In this study, an ultrasensitive label‐free electrochemical immunosensor based on Ti3C2Tx (Mxene) with a 2D‐layered morphology has been proposed for the detection of EpCAM antigen. A hydrothermal method is employed for the synthesis of Ti3C2Tx by using a less toxic exfoliating reagent, NaBF4. The bioelectrode, BSA/anti‐EpCAM/Ti3C2Tx@ITO, has been fabricated by electrophoretic deposition of Ti3C2Tx onto the ITO electrode, followed by an immobilization of EpCAM antibody. Electrochemical response studies reveal that the immunosensor shows a high sensitivity of 29.22 μA fg−1 ml cm−2 and a wide linear range from 0.1 fg/ml to 100 ng/ml, for EpCAM antigen detection. Further, the good stability of this fabricated immunosensor is an additional advantage for EpCAM antigen detection in serum samples.
One‐pot immobilization of formate dehydrogenase on silica nanoparticles based on catechol chemistry with or without polyethyleneimine
Authors: Chong Ruqing , Meng Lingding , Liao Qiyong , Meng Zihui , Liu Wenfang
Published: May 2024

Converting carbon dioxide into formic acid with formate dehydrogenase (FDH) as a catalyst is a gentle and eco‐friendly process that not only conserves energy and reduces emissions but transforms waste into valuable resource. Enzyme immobilization is a common strategy for improving the stability and recyclability of enzyme, however, the procedures are usually complicated that include surface modification and binding reactions in order to form reliable linkages. Co‐deposition of polydopamine (PDA) with polyethyleneimine (PEI) is a popular surface modification approach in versatile fields, but their co‐deposition with enzymes is rarely reported. Herein, one‐pot immobilization of FDH on SiO2 nanoparticles based on catechol chemistry was attempted for the first time with or without PEI, and the resultant immobilized enzymes, FDH/PDA/PEI‐SiO2 and FDH/PDA‐SiO2, were characterized, and the effects of the composition and deposition conditions on the catalytic performance were investigated. FDH/PDA‐SiO2 exhibited a higher apparent specific activity than FDH/PDA/PEI‐SiO2, which was separately 0.167 and 0.136 mM/h/mg. The activity recovery rate was 464% and 378% of that of free enzyme. After 5 cycles, their relative activity was 82.3% and 87.4%. This research is significant in presenting a simple and high‐efficient one‐pot immobilization method that can be extended to other kinds of enzymes.
Beyond recognition: Memory, desire and the hellish zone of nonbeing in encounters with otherness
Authors: Swartz Sally
Published: May 2024

This paper is an exploration of possible journeys towards freedom from colonial states of mind. These inner worlds are the distorting forms of self‐observation brought about by living under oppressive conditions, and includes those associated with colonialism itself, and also coloniality, the enduring legacy left behind by colonial regimes. Fanon describes the effect of colonialism on subjectivity as creating “a zone of nonbeing” and suggests freedom from it requires internally “an authentic upheaval.” This paper draws the parallels between Fanon's zone of nonbeing and states of mind untethered from the shackles of colonial definition. These states, akin to reverie are potentially the place from which the quest for a new authenticity of being might be found.
Discovery of potent CSK inhibitors through integrated virtual screening and molecular dynamic simulation
Authors: Chen Roufen , Wang Yuchen , Shen Zheyuan , Ye Chenyi , Guo Yu , Lu Yan , Ding Jianjun , Dong Xiaowu , Xu Donghang , Zheng Xiaoli
Published: May 2024

Oncogenic overexpression or activation of C‐terminal Src kinase (CSK) has been shown to play an important role in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) progression, including tumor initiation, growth, metastasis, drug resistance. This revelation has pivoted the focus toward CSK as a potential target for novel treatments. However, until now, there are few inhibitors designed to target the CSK protein. Responding to this, our research has implemented a comprehensive virtual screening protocol. By integrating energy‐based screening methods with AI‐driven scoring functions, such as Attentive FP, and employing rigorous rescoring methods like Glide docking and molecular mechanics generalized Born surface area (MM/GBSA), we have systematically sought out inhibitors of CSK. This approach led to the discovery of a compound with a potent CSK inhibitory activity, reflected by an IC50 value of 1.6 nM under a homogeneous time‐resolved fluorescence (HTRF) bioassay. Subsequently, molecule 2 exhibits strong growth inhibition of MD anderson ‐ metastatic breast (MDA‐MB) ‐231, Hs578T, and SUM159 cells, showing a level of growth inhibition comparable to that observed with dasatinib. Treatment with molecule 2 also induced significant G1 phase accumulation and cell apoptosis. Furthermore, we have explored the explicit binding interactions of the compound with CSK using molecular dynamics simulations, providing valuable insights into its mechanism of action.
Data‐efficient and risk‐based pressure sensor placement optimization for water systems
Authors: Chen Thomas Ying‐Jeh , Dryer Joseph , Rathor Ankur , Hoover Greg , Ganjidoost Amin
Published: May 2024

Deployment of remote metering infrastructure can help utilities improve pressure management and limit pipe break impacts. Since it is cost‐infeasible to install sensors to fully cover an entire system, a risk‐based approach where devices are deployed in areas of systemic vulnerabilities will maximize the benefit of these limited resources. Previous work on sensor allocations requires well‐calibrated hydraulic models that contain a full asset inventory. This high barrier of data requirement makes it difficult to apply existing methods. In this research, we present a more efficient methodology with lower data requirements. Proxies for system vulnerabilities are generated using historic break records, and GIS inventories are used to derive candidate installation points. The problem is presented as a generalized version of the well‐studied maximal coverage location problem, where locations are selected for optimal coverage of risky areas. The workflow is demonstrated on a small suburban utility in Pennsylvania, USA.
Pharmacokinetics of IMM‐H012 in rats using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Wu Shujuan , Wu Jialei , Lin Longquan , Jiang Rongbin , Wang Xianqin , Wen Congcong , Zhu Xia‐yin
Published: May 2024

The present study examined the pharmacokinetics of IMM‐H012 in rat plasma, utilizing ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS/MS). Internal standard cilostazol was employed, and plasma samples were processed using acetonitrile precipitation. A mobile phase (acetonitrile–0.1% formic acid in water) with gradient elution was used to achieve chromatographic separation using a UPLC BEH C18 column. In multiple reaction monitoring mode, electrospray ionization MS/MS was utilized in positive ionization mode. Based on findings, the lower limit of quantification was 2 ng/mL, and the linearity of IMM‐H012 in rat plasma was found to be acceptable within the range of 2–2000 ng/mL (R2 > 0.995). The intra‐day and inter‐day precision relative standard deviation was less than 14% of IMM‐H012 in rat plasma. The matrix effect was within the range of 102%–107%, and the accuracy ranged from 92% to 113%. Pharmacokinetics of IMM‐H012 in rats after oral administration were successfully studied using UPLC‐MS/MS.
Evaluation of quality consistency between dispensing granules and traditional decoction of Bombyx batryticatus based on peptidomics and in silico simulations
Authors: Huang Yayang , Liu Yaxiong , Xiao Xiaotong , Guo Dong , Zeng Wenjie , Luo Zhuoya
Published: May 2024

The application of traditional Chinese medicine dispensing granules is becoming increasingly prevalent. However, the consistency of dispensing granules with traditional decoction remains controversial. In this study, the consistency of peptide composition and pharmacodynamics between dispensing granules and traditional decoction of Bombyx batryticatus (BB) were assessed. A peptidomics method based on LC–tandem mass spectrometry technology was used to evaluate peptide composition similarity between BB traditional decoction and dispensing granules. The results revealed notable differences in peptide sequences between the two dosage forms, with only 8.55% of peptides shared between them. To evaluate the potential pharmacodynamic effects of the two dosage forms on epilepsy, virtual screening was used to identify potential active peptides, including blood–brain barrier permeability, toxicity prediction, and molecular docking. BB traditional decoction demonstrated a higher number and greater abundance of potential active peptides than BB dispensing granules, suggesting that BB traditional decoction may have a more favorable effect in treating epilepsy compared with BB dispensing granules. Moreover, molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation studies confirmed the mechanism of action of active peptides to γ‐aminobutyric acid transporter 1 (GAT‐1). This study provides a scientific basis for the evaluation of quality consistency between BB traditional decoction and dispensing granules.
Exosome‐related lncRNA score: A value‐based individual treatment strategy for predicting the response to immunotherapy in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Yang Zhan , Zhang Xiaoting , Zhan Ning , Lin Lining , Zhang Jingyu , Peng Lianjie , Qiu Tao , Luo Yaxian , Liu Chundi , Pan Chaoran , Hu Junhao , Ye Yifan , Jiang Zilong , Liu Xinyu , Sun Mouyuan , Zhang Yan
Published: May 2024

Background

Exosomes play a crucial role in intercellular communication in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC), while the long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are implicated in tumorigenesis and progression.

Aims

The purpose of this study is to construction a exosomes‐related lncRNA score and a ceRNA network to predict the response to immunotherapy and potential targeted drug in ccRCC.

Methods

Data of ccRCC patients were obtained from the TCGA database. Pearson correlation analysis was used to identify eExosomes‐related lncRNAs (ERLRs) from Top10 exosomes‐related genes that have been screened. The entire cohort was randomly divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort in equal scale. LASSO regression and multivariate cox regression was used to construct the ERLRs‐based score. Differences in clinicopathological characteristics, immune microenvironment, immune checkpoints, and drug susceptibility between the high‐ and low‐risk groups were also investigated. Finally, the relevant ceRNA network was constructed by machine learning to analyze their potential targets in immunotherapy and drug use of ccRCC patients.

Results

A score consisting of 4ERLRs was identified, and patients with higher ERLRs‐based score tended to have a worse prognosis than those with lower ERLRs‐based score. ROC curves and multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that the score could be considered as a risk factor for prognosis in both training and validation cohorts. Moreover, patients with high scores are predisposed to experience poor overall survival, a larger prevalence of advanced stage (III‐IV), a greater tumor mutational burden, a higher infiltration of immunosuppressive cells, and a greater likelihood of responding favorably to immunotherapy. The importance of EMX2OS was determined by mechanical learning, and the ceRNA network was constructed, and EMX2OS may be a potential therapeutic target, possibly exerting its function through the EMX2OS/hsa‐miR‐31‐5p/TLN2 axis.

Conclusions

Based on machine learning, a novel ERLRs‐based score was constructed for predicting the survival of ccRCC patients. The ERLRs‐based score is a promising potential independent prognostic factor that is closely correlated with the immune microenvironment and clinicopathological characteristics. Meanwhile, we screened out key lncRNAEMX2OS and identified the EMX2OS/hsa‐miR‐31‐5p/TLN2 axis, which may provide new clues for the targeted therapy of ccRCC.
Long‐COVID symptoms improved after MDMA and psilocybin therapy: A case report
Authors: Chopra Harman , Furnish Tim , Verduzco‐Gutierrez Monica , Jevotovsky David S. , Castellanos Joel
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Long‐COVID syndrome lacks effective holistic treatment options. We present a case of a 41‐year‐old fully vaccinated female with Long‐COVID syndrome who obtained significant symptomatic relief after self‐medicating with psilocybin and MDMA.

Long‐COVID, a syndrome persisting after the acute phase of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), lacks effective holistic treatment options. We present a case of a 41‐year‐old fully vaccinated female with Long‐COVID syndrome who obtained significant symptomatic relief by self‐prescribing psilocybin and MDMA. Future research is needed to assess safety and efficacy.
Selective Synthesis of Formyl‐2‐Furancarboxylic Acid via Enhanced Adsorption of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural on Composite Catalysts
Authors: Wang Di , Lu Xingyu , Xu Haiyan , Dou Jing , Zhang Xuefei , Xie Zailai , Qi Wei
Published: May 2024

5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) is a widely used biomass platform chemical that plays a crucial role in bridging biomass and fossil resources. Electrocatalytic oxidation of HMF provides an efficient way to obtain high‐value‐added biomass‐derived chemicals, among which the intermediate product 5‐formyl‐2‐furan carboxylic acid (FFCA) has attracted considerable attention. However, the weak adsorption ability of monometallic nickel oxide (NiOx) to HMF in neutral electrolyte restricts its further development, resulting in low HMF conversion and FFCA yield. In this study, we successfully constructed a novel nickel oxide‐platinum oxide hybrid catalyst supported on carbon felt (NiOx‐PtOx/CF), which exhibits an optimized adsorption ability of HMF, leading to the outstanding FFCA yield up to 77 % in the neutral media. The high activity of the NiOx‐PtOx/CF catalyst can be attributed to the redistribution of the electrons and the optimization of the electronic structure on the Ni active site due to the introduction of PtOx on NiOx nanosheets. This study offers valuable insights for the design of efficient multicomponent electrocatalysts for electrocatalytic biomass refinery systems.
The impact of university co‐curricular activities on competency articulation proficiency: A mediated model
Authors: Kanar Adam M. , Heinrich Bill
Published: May 2024

To succeed after graduating, university students must develop and communicate their career‐related competencies to hiring managers or graduate admissions committees. Co‐curricular activities (e.g., volunteering, mentoring) coupled with reflection can facilitate students’ career exploration and help them understand, develop, and apply their career‐related competencies. Yet, as a scientific community, we need to learn more about the role of co‐curricular programming in helping students to effectively articulate their learned competencies. We draw on past research to develop and test a model of university student competency articulation proficiency. A serial mediation model predicted students’ learning goal orientation would influence their co‐curricular engagement, which, in turn, would predict career exploration and decision‐making self‐efficacy and self‐reported competency articulation proficiency. We surveyed 126 students enrolled in co‐curricular programming at a university in North America. Results largely supported the hypothesized model. Learning goal orientation, directly and indirectly, affected career exploration and decision‐making self‐efficacy and competency articulation proficiency.
Detection the internal quality of watermelon seeds based on terahertz imaging technology combined with image smoothing and enhancement algorithm
Authors: Bin Li , Jin‐li Yang , Zhao‐xiang Sun , Shi‐min Yang , Aiguo Ouyang , Yan‐de Liu
Published: May 2024

The cultivation processes of watermelon seed are often affected by issues such as empty shells and defects, resulting in significant losses. To obtain high‐quality seeds, the terahertz imaging technology combined with image smoothing and enhancement algorithm was proposed to reduce the noise and non‐obvious features caused by the influence in the imaging process and realize the non‐destructive, efficient, and accurate detection of the internal quality of watermelon seeds. Initially, a terahertz imaging system with a spatial resolution of 0.4 mm was used to acquire images of watermelon seeds with varying levels of fullness. Subsequently, denoising techniques, including Gaussian filtering, median filtering, bilateral filtering, discrete wavelet transformation denoising, wavelet denoising, and principal component analysis denoising, were used to handle the terahertz spectral images of watermelon seeds in the frequency range of 1–1.5 THz, respectively. Image enhancement operations, involving segmented linear gray‐level transformation and fractional‐order differentiation, were performed on the terahertz images of watermelon seeds after denoising. The optimal image processing approach was determined based on defect assessment through threshold segmentation. Finally, the validation was conducted at a spatial resolution of 0.2 mm. The images at a spatial resolution of 0.4 mm were subjected to wavelet denoising and window slicing in segmented linear gray‐level transformation (WS‐SLT) enhancement; the results exhibited the following improvements in defect accuracy compared with untreated THz images. A 7.74% increase in accuracy was observed for empty seeds, along with a 6.29% increase in the defect ratio for defective seeds 1. The defect ratio for intact seeds was 0, and there was no significant difference in defect ratio accuracy for defective seeds 2. At a spatial resolution of 0.2 mm, the average defect ratio error of THz imaging handled by wavelet denoising and WS‐SLT was approximately 5.04%. In conclusion, the terahertz imaging technology coupled with wavelet denoising and WS‐SLT methods can be used to enhance the accuracy of internal defect detection in watermelon seeds, and it provides a technical foundation and reference for assessing watermelon seed fullness.
Superelastic wood‐based nanogenerators magnifying the piezoelectric effect for sustainable energy conversion
Authors: Wu Tong , Lu Yun , Tao Xinglin , Chen Pan , Zhang Yongyue , Ren Bohua , Xie Feifan , Yu Xia , Zhou Xinyi , Yang Dongjiang , Sun Jin , Chen Xiangyu
Published: May 2024

In the quest for sustainable energy materials, wood is discovered to be a potential piezoelectric material. However, the rigidity, poor stability, and low piezoelectric properties of wood impede its development. Here, we obtained a superelastic roasted wood nanogenerator (RW‐NG) by unraveling ray tissues through a sustainable roasting strategy. The increased compressibility of roasted wood intensifies the deformation of cellulose microfibrils, significantly enhancing the piezoelectric effect in wood. Roasted wood (15 × 15 × 15 mm3, longitudinal × radial × tangential) can generate a voltage and current outputs of 1.4 V and 14.5 nA, respectively, which are more than 70 times that of natural wood. The wood sample can recover 90% of its shape after 5000 compressions at 65% strain, exhibiting excellent elasticity and stability. Importantly, roasted wood does not add any toxic substances and can be safely applied on the human skin as a self‐powered sensor for detecting body movements. Moreover, it can also be assembled into self‐powered wooden floors for energy harvesting. These indicate that roasted wood has great potential for sustainable sensing and energy conversion.
Push–Pull Bis‐Norbornadienes for Solar Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Weber Roza R. , Stindt Charlotte N. , van der Harten Anne‐Lot M. J. , Feringa Ben L.
Published: May 2024

Invited for the cover of this issue are Ben L. Feringa and co‐workers at the University of Groningen. The image depicts an autumn forest with the five molecular switches from our study cycling between their two isomers in the sunlight. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202400482.
The content, evolution and determinants of COVID‐19 disclosures in Canadian financial statements and MD&A documents: An impression management perspective
Authors: Bujaki Merridee , Mansurov Alisher , McConomy Bruce
Published: May 2024

We assess content, evolution and determinants of COVID‐19 disclosures in accounting documents using natural language processing for TSX60 firms. We evaluate sentiment, extent of disclosure, choice of disclosure medium, links to governance, and the relationship with performance. We focus on accounting‐related disclosures, an understudied aspect of corporate responses to the pandemic, and add to the choice of disclosure media literature. Our unique forward‐looking longitudinal approach to understanding the content, evolution and determinants of COVID‐19 corporate disclosures includes an evaluation of how these disclosures are affected by corporate governance and jurisdictional factors. Our findings include evidence of an inverse relationship between causal reasoning in disclosures and performance, with firms attributing poor performance to the pandemic across years, consistent with impression management.
Dynamic scenario deduction analysis for hazardous chemical accident based on CNN‐LSTM model with attention mechanism
Authors: Chen Guohua , Ding Xu , Gao Xiaoming , Li Xiaofeng , Zhou Lixing , Zhao Yimeng , Lv Hongpeng
Published: May 2024

The evolution of hazardous chemical accidents (HCAs) is characterized by uncertainty and complexity. It is challenging for decision‐makers to expeditiously adapt emergency response plans in response to dynamically changing scenario states. This study proposes a data‐driven methodology for constructing accident scenarios and develops a novel hybrid deep learning model for scenario deduction analysis. This model aids in accurately predicting the evolution of HCAs, enabling emergency responders to prepare and implement targeted interventions proactively. First, a framework for constructing an accident scenario database is presented, based on the time‐sequential characteristics of accident progression. This framework employs a data‐driven approach to describe the evolution process of accident scenarios. Second, a deep learning model (CNN‐LSTM‐Attention) that integrates convolutional neural network (CNN), long short‐term memory (LSTM), and attention mechanism (AM) is developed for accident scenario deduction analysis. Finally, to illustrate practical application, a scenario database for HCAs is established. A major HCA case study is conducted to demonstrate the ability of this model to analyze various scenarios, thereby improving emergency decision‐making efficiency. Compared with algorithms such as CNN, LSTM, and CNN‐LSTM, the prediction accuracy of this method ranges from 86% to 93%, signifying an improvement of over 7%. This work provides a reliable framework for supporting decision‐making in emergency management.
Piezoelectric Materials and Pyroelectric Materials:High Efficient Catalysts for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting
Authors: Wang Chengyi , Liu Zhifeng
Published: May 2024

Directly transforming solar energy into chemical compounds via photocatalytic water splitting can continually producing hydrogen, regarded as one of the ultimate sustainable energy sources. The key point of achieving high photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting performance depends on the successful design and synthesis of high‐efficient photocatalysts. However, the slow separation and fast recombination of photo generated charge carriers greatly limit the utilization of solar energy, resulting in low PEC water splitting efficiency. Recently, piezoelectric/pyroelectric effect assisted PEC water splitting brings new sight on improving charger separate and transfer behaviors. In this review, the recent advancements and state‐of‐the‐art progress in piezoelectric/pyroelectric effect assisted PEC water splitting are summarized and discussed. Different types of photocatalysts are classified according to their chemical constitutions and the corresponding advantages of each type are also discussed. Furthermore, the progress of coupling piezoelectric effect and pyroelectric effect in one PEC water splitting system is also introduced. Finally, the prospects, critical challenges and promising strategies for the application of piezoelectric/pyroelectric materials in PEC water splitting are highlighted.
Dispersion‐Driven Cooperativity in Alkyl Perylene Diimide Oligomers: Insights from Density Functional Theory
Authors: Sahu Rahul , Yamijala Sharma S. R. K. C. , Rao Kotagiri Venkata , Reddy Sandeep K.
Published: May 2024

The cooperative mechanism is of paramount importance in the synthesis of supramolecular polymers with desired characteristics, including molecular mass, polydispersity, and morphology. It is primarily driven by the presence of intermolecular interactions, which encompass strong hydrogen bonding, metal‐ligand interactions, and dipole‐dipole interactions. In this study, we utilize density functional theory and energy decomposition analysis to investigate the cooperative behavior of perylene diimide (PDI) oligomers with alkyl chains at their imide positions, which lack the previously mentioned interactions. Our systematic examination reveals that dispersion interactions originating from the alkyl side‐chain substituents play an important role in promoting cooperativity within these PDIs. This influence becomes even more pronounced for alkyl chain lengths beyond hexyl groups. The energy decomposition analysis reveals that the delicate balance between dispersion energy and Pauli repulsion energy is the key driver of cooperative behavior in PDIs. Additionally, we have developed a mathematical model capable of predicting the saturated binding energies for PDI oligomers of varying sizes and alkyl chain lengths. Overall, our findings emphasize the previously undervalued significance of dispersion forces in cooperative supramolecular polymerization, enhancing our overall understanding of the cooperative mechanism.
DIRED: Dual Indicator Random Early Detection for Congestion Control in WSN
Authors: Jadhav Savita , Jadhav Sangeeta
Published: May 2024

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) find applications in diverse fields such as environmental monitoring, healthcare, and military surveillance. Nonetheless, one of the primary challenges encountered by WSNs is congestion. Congestion arises in WSNs when there is a high volume of traffic on the network, leading to significant repercussions. These repercussions encompass packet loss, heightened latency durations, and diminished network efficiency. This paper presents an innovative congestion control mechanism named Dual Indicator Random Early Detection (DIRED). DIRED leverages two indicators, namely queue length and packet loss rate, to dynamically adjust the dropping probability of packets, thereby mitigating congestion and enhancing network performance. For the successful execution of the DIRED model, a congestion control algorithm is introduced. This strategy efficiently prevents the deterioration of network performance that can commonly arise from extremely low packet drop probabilities. Simulations are conducted to evaluate the proposed DIRED model, comparing it with the KACO and KFOA techniques. The results demonstrate that DIRED outperforms KACO and KFOA in terms of network performance, achieving a more optimal balance between performance metrics and packet‐dropping probability.
Superficial radiation therapy in dermatology: A historical perspective
Authors: Bhupalam Vishnu , Hetzel John D. , Awad Nardin , Nestor Mark S.
Published: May 2024

Background

Nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSCs), such as basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), are the most commonly diagnosed type of cancer in the United States, and the incidence of NMSC is increasing. Though surgical excision and Mohs micrographic surgery remain definitive treatments for NMSC, the majority of affected patients are advanced in age and may have relative contraindications to surgery or preferences against it. As such, there is growing value in exploring less‐invasive alternative techniques, such as superficial radiation therapy (SRT). Historically, in the decades following its inception just over a century ago, the field of SRT experienced a boom of innovations that provided the basis for treatment modalities used by dermatologists today.

Aims

This paper outlines the history and evolution of SRT in dermatology and discusses SRT's modern role as an alternative to surgical management of NMSC in select patients.

Conclusion

Although a combination of aging equipment and shifts in interest toward surgical methods diminished the prominence of radiation therapy (RT) in the late 20th century, newer iterations of SRT technology have drawn renewed interest as a nonsurgical extremely effective treatment for NMSC. A brief comparison of key clinical and practical factors indicates that SRT is the optimal choice of RT technique for the definitive management of select NMSCs in patients.
Sunscreens—Where are we now?
Authors: Gao David X. , Lim Henry W. , Mohammad Tasneem F.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Sunscreen serves as an important method for photoprotection, with strong evidence in minimizing photoaging, photocarcinogenesis, photodermatoses, and pigmentary disorders.

Objective

This review explores the legislative status of ultraviolet filters, their mechanisms of action in photoprotection, impact on human health and the environment, secondary photoprotection, and upcoming developments in photoprotection.

Methods

A narrative review of recently published literature was conducted.

Results

Various studies have raised concerns about the impact of sunscreens on the environment and personal health. Further studies are needed in particular to characterize sunscreens' impact on human health. Multiple novel forms of photoprotection are emerging to complement traditional forms of photoprotection.

Conclusions

While the sunscreen market in the US has remained stagnant, innovations in other avenues of photoprotection are emerging.
Maternal early life and prenatal stress in relation to birth outcomes in Argentinian mothers
Authors: Eckermann Henrik Andreas , Lugones Micaela , Abdala Daniel , Roge Horacio , de Weerth Carolina
Published: May 2024

Environmental influences before and during pregnancy significantly impact offspring development. This study investigates open research questions regarding the associations between maternal early life stress (ELS), prenatal psychosocial stress, prenatal hair cortisol (HC), and birth outcomes in Argentinian women. Data on ELS, prenatal life events, HC (two samples representing first and second half of pregnancy), and birth outcomes were collected from middle‐class Argentinian women (N = 69) upon delivery. Linear mixed models indicated that HC increased from the first half to the second half of pregnancy with considerable variability in the starting values and slopes between individuals. Mothers who experienced more ELS, were taller, or more educated, tended to show lower increases in HC. Older age was positively related to HC increases. Our data did not suggest an interaction between ELS and prenatal life events in relation to HC. We found that the change in HC was most likely negatively associated with birth weight. Our data are most compatible with either a weak or the absence of an association between ELS or prenatal life events and absolute values of HC. Mothers with stronger increases in hair cortisol tended to have newborns with slightly lower birth weight. Hence, ELS and birthweight may either have been related to changes in cortisol exposure during pregnancy or to factors that influence accumulation or retention of cortisol in hair.
Estimating human pharmacokinetic parameters for electronic nicotine delivery system products from chemical analyses of their aerosols
Authors: Shiffman Saul , Cohen Gal , Liang Qiwei , Cook David K. , Karles Georgios D.
Published: May 2024

The ability of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) to deliver nicotine is central to their function to substitute for cigarettes, allowing people who smoke to switch away from smoking, thus reducing their exposure to harmful chemicals in cigarette smoke. The nicotine concentration in ENDS e‐liquid has proved to be a poor predictor of nicotine uptake in users. Using meta‐analytic methods to analyze 12 pharmacokinetic studies of nicotine‐salt closed‐system ENDS, this paper examines whether the mass of nicotine/puff of aerosol can predict Cmax in pharmacokinetic studies. Cmax values were available for 38 products, in 58 use conditions (including both controlled [3 s] and ad libitum puffing), comprising 1769 participant observations. Nicotine/puff data reflected chemical analyses of aerosol obtained under nonintense (3 s) or intense (6 s) machine puffing. Meta‐regression analyses (weighted by reliability of Cmax estimate) assessed the relationship of nicotine/puff to Cmax. In some models, empirical data were used to impute the variation in Cmax or the nicotine/puff value under intense puffing. In simple linear models, Cmax was significantly associated with nicotine/puff under all combinations of intense/nonintense and controlled/ad‐libitum conditions, with R2 values of 0.71–0.77. More complex models based on quadratic effects or log[nicotine/puff] did not generally improve upon more parsimonious linear models. Application of the model illustrates the divergence between nicotine concentration in e‐liquids and expected Cmax when other ENDS parameters vary. The meta‐analytic model may have utility in settings where clinical pharmacokinetic data are not available, including product development.
Development of a degradation method for evaluation of edible oils using a contactless quartz crystal complex capacitance sensor
Authors: Oshima Yu , Sohgawa Masayuki , Abe Takashi
Published: May 2024

A method for evaluating the degradation of edible oils using a contactless quartz‐based capacitive detector is reported herein. Oils easily oxidize, resulting in loss of flavor and nutritional value. Therefore, it is necessary to determine oil degradation. We attempted to evaluate the degradation of edible oils by heat and light using this sensor. The results showed the degradation of heated and irradiated oil could be detected. This is due to the compound was formed during heating and irradiation.
Risk and prevalence of Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) among professional female football players
Authors: Dasa Marcus S. , Friborg Oddgeir , Kristoffersen Morten , Pettersen Gunn , Sagen Jorn V. , Torstveit Monica Klungland , Sundgot‐Borgen Jorunn , Rosenvinge Jan H.
Published: May 2024

A high prevalence of low energy availability (LEA) has been reported in female football players. This is of concern as problematic LEA may evolve into a syndromic pattern known as relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs). Given the difficulties in accurately assessing LEA, our study shifts emphasis to measurable indicators of REDs, serving as proxies for health detriments caused by LEA. The present cross‐sectional study aimed to quantify the risk of REDs and to assess the prevalence of indicators indicative of the syndrome. 60 players (tiers 3 and 4) from three Norwegian football teams were analyzed as a single cohort but also stratified based on player position and menstrual status. The proportion of players at risk for REDs was 22%, that is, 17% with mild, 3% with moderate to high, and 2% with very high/extreme risk, respectively. The majority of the cohort (71%) presented with no primary indicators, while 20%, 7%, and 2% presented with one, two, and three primary indicators, respectively. Regarding secondary indicators, 57% had none, 33% had one, and 10% had two indicators. For associated indicators, 30% had none, 42% had one, 18% had two, 8% had three, and 2% had four indicators. Player position did not affect the prevalence of REDs indicators. Among noncontraceptive users (n = 27), secondary amenorrhea (AME) was reported by 30%. These findings indicate that health and performance teams should prioritize universal health promoting strategies rather than selective or indicative strategies. Particularly, focus on nutritional periodization to secure sufficient energy availability, mitigating the risk of problematic LEA and REDs should be addressed.
Conducting Polymers–Metal Chalcogenides Hybrid Composite: Current Trends and Future Prospects Toward Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Agarwal Akanksha , Tolani Raunak , Sankapal Babasaheb R.
Published: May 2024

Conducting polymers have grown in popularity as electrode materials in supercapacitors due to their polymeric mechanical structure and outstanding conductivity. Nanostructured conducting polymers, in particular, have been the focus due to unique properties such as higher surface area, shorter diffusion lengths for ion transport, and a high electrochemical nature. Nonetheless, the volumetric expansion of conducting polymer electrodes after long charge–discharge cycles reduces capacitance retention. Metal chalcogenides, on the other hand, are distinguished from other metallic compounds by their distinctive 2D structure, large theoretical capacities, abundant electrochemical active sites, and tunable shape, enabling them as a potential candidature when combined with conducting polymers to produce a composite material taking “material mutualism” to enhance the properties. Hence, the review focuses on recent advancement in the field of creating conducting polymers–metal chalcogenides composite for supercapacitors. It especially covers how nanoarchitecture, composition, and doping affect the electrochemical characteristics of these composites. A brief introduction of several synthesis procedures is also offered, which includes chemical approaches with and without templates or binder additives. Furthermore, noteworthy works on the fabrication of symmetric and asymmetric devices are highlighted.
Shaking table test and numerical analyses of a multi‐story traditional tower‐style building
Authors: Ling Huaiquan , Xue Jianyang , Qi Liangjie
Published: May 2024

The traditional tower‐style building (TTSB) is an innovative structural form constructed in modern cities imitating the overall appearance of ancient timber pagodas, and it is an extraordinarily cultured high‐rise construction. The limited stipulations for high‐rise TTSBs in the seismic design code pose challenges in assessing the reliable performance of the unique structure subjected to severe earthquakes. This paper presents the shaking table test and numerical analyses of a 1/15‐scale 13‐story TTSB specimen with an integral tower height of 5.36 m, which is a steel frame‐braced core‐tube structure consisting of seven bright floors (built‐out stories evident from the outside, BF) and six dim floors (built‐in stories not apparent from the outside, DF), with transition columns and stiffening trusses around the exterior perimeter. The experimental results showed that the tested tower‐style building had excellent seismic performance and reliable structural integrity. It only experienced minor damage when subjected to extremely high‐intensity motions. The interstory drift, dynamic strain, and floor acceleration response of the core‐tube region with eccentric steel braces were more significant under severe excitation than those with cross‐centered symmetric steel braces. The vertical reaction increased at the upper floor of the tower under vertical acceleration, and differences in the dynamic response of the middle and upper floors were much more apparent after the test. Moreover, 3D numerical simulation models of the tested tower were established and validated against the test responses. Successively, the validated numerical model was used to investigate the influence of the transition column at different floors on the peak interstory drift response and the relevant strain distribution, and the proposal for a proper position of the transition column was recommended at the end.