bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Associations of Alzheimer's Disease Pathology and Small Vessel Disease With Cerebral White Matter Degeneration: A Tract‐Based MR Diffusion Imaging Study
Authors: Li Kaicheng , Wang Shuyue , Luo Xiao , Zeng Qingze , Liu Xiaocao , Hong Luwei , Li Jixuan , Hong Hui , Xu Xiaopei , Zhang Yao , Jiaerken Yeerfan , Zhang Ruiting , Xie Linyun , Xu Shan , Zhang Xinyi , Chen Yanxing , Liu Zhirong , Zhang Minming , Huang Peiyu
Published: September 2023

Background

White matter (WM) degeneration is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear.

Purpose

To investigate how amyloid‐β (Aβ), tau, and small vascular disease (SVD) jointly affect WM degeneration in subjects along AD continuum.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

152 non‐demented participants (age: 55.8–91.6, male/female: 66/86) from the ADNI database were included, classified into three groups using the A (Aβ)/T (tau)/N pathological scheme (Group 1: A−T−; Group 2: A+T−; Group 3: A+T+) based on positron emission tomography data.

Field Strength/Sequence

3T; T1‐weighted images, T2‐weighted fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery images, T2*‐weighted images, diffusion‐weighted spin‐echo echo‐planar imaging sequence (54 diffusion directions).

Assessment

Free‐water diffusion model (generated parameters: free water, FW; tissue fractional anisotropy, FAt; tissue mean diffusivity, MDt); SVD total score; Neuropsychological tests.

Statistical Tests

Linear regression analysis was performed to investigate the independent contribution of AD (Aβ and tau) and SVD pathologies to diffusion parameters in each fiber tract, first in the entire population and then in each subgroup. We also investigated associations between diffusion parameters and cognitive functions. The level of statistical significance was set at p < 0.05 (false discovery rate corrected).

Results

In the entire population, we found that: 1) Increased FW was significantly associated with SVD and tau, while FAt and MDt were significantly associated with Aβ and tau; 2) The spatial pattern of fiber tracts related to a certain pathological marker is consistent with the known distribution of that pathology; 3) Subgroup analysis showed that Group 2 and 3 had more alterations of FAt and MDt associated with Aβ and tau; 4) Diffusion imaging indices showed significant associations with cognitive score in all domains except memory.

Data Conclusion

WM microstructural injury was associated with both AD and SVD pathologies, showing compartment‐specific, tract‐specific, and stage‐specific WM patterns.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
The role of discrete emotions in job satisfaction: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Williams Courtney E. , Thomas Jane Shumski , Bennett Andrew A. , Banks George C. , Toth Allison , Dunn Alexandra M. , McBride Andrew , Gooty Janaki
Published: September 2023

The relationship between emotions and job satisfaction is widely acknowledged via affective events theory (AET). Despite its widespread use, AET was not designed to address why specific emotions might differentially relate to job satisfaction. We utilize appraisal theory of emotion to refine AET and provide this nuanced theorizing. We meta‐analytically test our ideas with 235 samples across 99 883 individuals and 22 600 intra‐individual episodes. We test two approaches—specific emotion experiences (16 discrete emotions) versus general emotion experiences (positive or negative emotions)—and present empirical evidence of their similarities and differences with job satisfaction. Our findings suggest that specific emotions with circumstance‐agency appraisals (e.g., depression and happiness) have the strongest associations with job satisfaction compared to emotions with self‐ and other‐agency appraisals and general emotion experiences. However, more variability is observed for negative emotions and job satisfaction compared to positive emotions. Further, we address and even challenge influential critiques of emotions and job satisfaction via a meta‐analytic test of five moderators—emotion intensity versus frequency, target of emotion, job satisfaction measure, level of analysis, and time referent for emotion and job satisfaction recall. In sum, we advance academic and practitioner understanding of the relationship between emotions and job satisfaction.
When does hindrance appraisal strengthen the effect of challenge appraisal? The role of goal orientation
Authors: Lu Xinxin , Kluemper Donald , Tu Yidong
Published: September 2023

Challenge and hindrance appraisals are important to understand the effect of job demands. To date, challenge and hindrance appraisals have been studied in tandem. However, it is unknown whether, how, and when the two appraisals jointly affect employee performance. Integrating effort justification theory and goal orientation theory, the current manuscript seeks to investigate the three‐way interaction effects of challenge appraisal, hindrance appraisal, and both performance‐prove goal orientation and learning goal orientation on task performance via job meaningfulness and activated positive emotions. In a diary study among 96 employees over 10 consecutive workdays (NOccasion = 960, NEmployee = 96), we found that at the daily level, hindrance appraisal strengthens (a) the effects of challenge appraisal of job demands on job meaningfulness and activated positive emotions and (b) the indirect effects of challenge appraisal on task performance via job meaningfulness and activated positive emotions. Furthermore, the strengthening effects of hindrance appraisal are more pronounced as individual trait performance‐prove goal orientation increases, but they do not vary as individual trait learning goal orientation decreases. These research findings shed light on effort justification in explaining the interaction effects of challenge and hindrance appraisals and the role of goal orientation in the process.
Mineral‐solubilizing microbial inoculants facilitate the rejuvenation of soil multifunctionality and plant growth at abandoned mine sites
Authors: Li Chong , Jia Zhaohui , Tang Yingzhou , Zhang Shuifeng , Li Tao , Ma Shilin , Nie Hui , Zhai Lu , Zhang Bo , Liu Xin , Zhang Jinchi , Müller Christoph
Published: September 2023

The mining industry continues to have considerable adverse effects on ecosystems, which necessitates the development of robust and effective strategies for the remediation of abandoned mine sites. One such approach involves the integration of mineral‐solubilizing microorganisms into existing external soil spray seeding technologies. These microorganisms have the capacity to reduce mineral particle sizes, stimulate plant growth, and facilitate the release of essential soil nutrients. Despite the potential benefits of mineral‐solubilizing microbial inoculants, their impacts on overall soil multifunctionality and microbial communities, associations with microbial diversity, soil multifunctionality, and plant growth remain largely unknown. To bridge these knowledge gaps, we conducted a 1‐year greenhouse experiment, which involved a comprehensive assessment of various parameters including soil nutrients, enzyme activities, functional gene copies, and microbial communities. Our findings unveiled that the application of mineral‐solubilizing microbial inoculants led to a significant augmentation of soil multifunctionality. Additionally, the application of microbial inoculants increased the relative abundances of Bacilli (class), Bacillales (order), Bacillaceae (family), and Bacillus (genus). While no significant relationship emerged between microbial alpha diversity and soil multifunctionality, our investigation found positive correlations between the Bacillus groups, keystone ecological cluster, and soil multifunctionality. Furthermore, our results suggested that the indirect impact of microbial inoculants on plant growth was primarily channeled indirectly through their influence on Bacilli, keystone ecological cluster, and soil multifunctionality, as opposed to changes in the overall bacterial or fungal diversity. Overall, our study underscores the significance of mineral‐solubilizing microbial inoculants for the rejuvenation of abandoned mine sites, while providing valuable insights for future research aimed at optimizing the efficacy of external soil spray seeding techniques.
Study of Electrospun PVDF/GO Nanofibers as a Conductive Piezoelectric Heart Patch for Potential Support of Myocardial Regeneration
Authors: Doustvandi Bahareh , Imani Rana , Yousefzadeh Maryam
Published: September 2023

Heart patches are currently being utilized to repair damaged myocardium and are a promising way to address the limitations of current therapeutic strategies. Given the electromechanical nature of cardiac tissue, conductive or piezoelectric materials are of interest to researchers. An electrospinning method is used to synthesize and evaluate polyvinylidene fluoride/graphene oxide (PVDF/GO) nanocomposites. Effects of GO concentration (0, 0.1, 0.3, 0.5, 0.7, and 1 wt%) on the main physical‐mechanical characteristics of the patch are studied. Results show nanofibers containing 0.7 wt% GO with a diameter of 857 ± 168 nm, provide excellent tensile strength (0.51 ± 10.34 MPa). Fourier transform infrared and X‐ray diffraction analysis confirm the increase of the β‐polymer phase by adding 1 wt% of GO from 63% to 86%. However, the highest output voltage in the piezoelectric shock test is recorded at 9.44 V for a concentration of 0.5 wt%, which is increased by 8.2 times compared to the neat PVDF. In addition, human umbilical vein endothelial cell culture on the electrospun patches confirmed no toxicity as well as increased cell growth and proliferation (3.4 times) over 7 d. The developed material has the potential to be utilized as a heart patch due to its promising characteristics.
Characterization of fatty acid forms using benchtop NMR in omega‐3 oil supplements
Authors: Remy Carla , Danoun Saïda , Delample Mathieu , Morris Cameron , Gilard Véronique , Balayssac Stéphane
Published: September 2023

Omega‐3 fatty acid supplements, such as fish oil and plant‐based oils, have gained popularity because of their potential health benefits. However, the quality and composition of these supplements can vary widely, particularly in terms of the two main forms of omega‐3 fatty acids: triacylglycerols (TAGs) and ethyl esters (EEs). TAGs are the natural form found in fish oil but are prone to oxidation, whereas EEs are more stable but less well absorbed by the body. Differentiating between these forms is crucial for assessing the efficacy and tolerance of omega‐3 supplements. This article describes a novel approach to differentiate between TAG and EE forms of omega‐3 fatty acids in dietary supplements, utilizing a 60‐MHz benchtop nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer. The proposed method using 1H and 1H‐1H COSY NMR provides a quick and accurate approach to screen the forms of omega‐3 fatty acids and evaluate their ratios. The presence of diacylglycerol (DAGs) in some supplements was also highlighted by this method and adds some information about the process used (i.e., esterification/enrichment). The affordability and user‐friendliness of benchtop NMR equipment make this method feasible for food processing companies or quality control laboratories. In this study, 24 oil supplements were analyzed using NMR analysis in order to demonstrate the potential of this method for the differentiation of TAG and EE forms in omega‐3 supplements.
Remediation of charged organic pollutants—binding motifs for highly efficient water cleaning with nanoparticles
Authors: Eigen Andreas , Schmidt Victoria , Sarcletti Marco , Freygang Selina , Hartmann‐Bausewein Andreas , Schneider Vanessa , Zehetmeier Anna , Mauritz Vincent , Müller Lukas , Gaß Henrik , Rockmann Linda , Crisp Ryan W. , Halik Marcus
Published: September 2023

Many charged organic molecules behave as persistent and hazardous pollutants with harmful effects on human health and ecosystems. They are widely distributed related to their charged molecular structure that provides water solubility. In order to track the fate and behavior of such pollutants, charged dyes with specific absorption in the visible spectra serve as convenient model compounds. We provide a platform of smart adsorbers that efficiently remediate positively and negatively charged dyes (crystal violet and Amaranth) from water. Metal oxide nanoparticles serve as a core with an intrinsically large surface area. The surface potential was tuned towards positive or negative by decorating the cores with self‐assembled monolayers of dedicated long‐chained phosphonic acid derivatives. Selective remediation of the dyes was obtained with corresponding oppositely charged core‐shell nanoparticles. Mixed dye solution can be cleaned by a cascade approach or by applying both particle systems simultaneously. The removal efficiency was determined as a function of particle concentration via UV‐spectroscopy. The results of remediation experiments at different pH values and using superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticle cores lead to a simple process with recycling capability.
A Legendre spectral‐Galerkin method for fourth‐order problems in cylindrical regions
Authors: Zheng Jihui , An Jing
Published: September 2023

A spectral‐Galerkin method based on Legendre‐Fourier approximation for fourth‐order problems in cylindrical regions is studied in this paper. By the cylindrical coordinate transformation, a three‐dimensional fourth‐order problem in a cylindrical region is transformed into a sequence of decoupled fourth‐order problems with two dimensions and the corresponding pole conditions are also derived. With appropriately constructed weighted Sobolev space, a weak form is established. Based on this weak form, a spectral‐Galerkin discretization scheme is proposed and its error is rigorously analyzed by defining a new class of projection operators. Then, a set of efficient basis functions are used to write the discrete scheme as the linear systems with a sparse matrix based on tensor product. Numerical examples are presented to show the efficiency and high‐accuracy of the developed method. Finally, an application of the proposed method to the fourth‐order Steklov problem and the corresponding numerical experiments once again confirm the efficiency and spectral accuracy of the method.
Rapid increases in BMI waist to height ratio during adolescence and subsequent neurobehavioral deficits
Authors: Yu Ting , Jiang Yining , Fan Jue , Guo Xiangrong , Hua Hui , Xu Dongqing , Wang Yuefen , Yan Chonghuai , Xu Jian
Published: September 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore prospective relationships between changing patterns of BMI/waist to height ratio (WHtR) during adolescence and subsequent neurobehavioral development.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, randomized stratified sampling was used to recruit six middle schools and 609 students in Shanghai, China. In Grades 6, 7, and 9, the Youth Self Report scale was used to assess student neurobehavioral status and anthropometric measurements were conducted to calculate BMI z scores and WHtRs. Longitudinal data were analyzed using latent class mixture modeling to delineate trajectories of BMI z scores (“stable,” “decreasing,” “rapidly increasing”) and WHtRs (“stable,” “rapidly increasing”), and their associations with neurobehavioral status in Grade 9 were assessed.

Results

In Grades 6 through 9 (ages 11–15 years), the prevalence of overall obesity and abdominal obesity ranged from 10.7% to 13.0% and 13.0% to 19.8%, respectively. Compared with the stable BMI z score trajectory, the rapidly increasing BMI z score trajectory was longitudinally associated with delinquent behavior, aggressive behavior, and externalizing problems (incidence rate ratio: 1.564–1.613, adjusted p < 0.05). Compared with the stable WHtR trajectory, the rapidly increasing WHtR trajectory significantly predicted increased risks of social problems and delinquent behavior (incidence rate ratios: 1.776–1.967, adjusted p < 0.05). Significant associations of the rapidly increasing BMI z score/WHtR trajectories with subsequent neurobehavioral deficits were observed among girls (adjusted p < 0.05) but not among boys (adjusted p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Rapid increases in BMI or WHtR during adolescence could predict subsequent neurobehavioral deficits, especially for externalizing behaviors. Timely intervention for weight control may be considered to promote adolescent mental health.
Proposing anti‐counterfeiting pharmacopoeia quality markers for Shenlingbaizhu granule based on UHPLC‐Q‐orbitrap‐MS identification
Authors: Zeng Jingyuan , Li Xican , Cai Rongxin , Chen Ban , Li Chunhou , Hu Qingzhong , Sun Yue
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Shenlingbaizhu granule, a Traditional Chinese Medicine prescription comprising Renshen, Gancao, and Shanyao, is widely consumed in China nowadays.

Objective

The study tries to propose pharmacopoeia quality markers (Q‐markers) to prevent counterfeiting involving Renshen, Gancao, and Shanyao.

Methodology

A novel strategy, that is, library‐based ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole‐orbitrap mass spectrometry, was used to analyse the lyophilised aqueous powder of Shenlingbaizhu granule. Subsequently, quantum chemistry calculation and UV‐vis spectra scanning were also performed through theoretical or experimental approaches.

Result

Thirty‐two isomers have been strictly distinguished, especially positional isomeric isochlorogenic acid B versus isochlorogenic acid C, positional isomeric schaftoside versus isoschaftoside, positional isomeric ginsenoside Rg2 versus 20S‐ginsenoside Rg3, and stereoisomeric 20S‐ginsenoside Rg3 versus 20R‐ginsenoside Rg3. Seventeen compounds were unexpectedly observed, particularly scoparone and pectolinarigenin, while a total of 76 bioactive compounds have been putatively identified in the study. The quantum chemistry calculation and UV‐vis spectra scanning results revealed that glycyrrhizic acid, ginsenoside Re, ginsenoside Rb1, and diosgenin displayed different dipole moment values and maximum absorption wavelengths from each other.

Conclusion

The study recommends glycyrrhizic acid, ginsenoside Re, ginsenoside Rb1, and diosgenin as four anti‐counterfeiting Q‐markers for the pharmacopoeia. The anti‐counterfeiting Q‐markers can be detected using conventional HPLC. The observation of 17 unexpected compounds updates our knowledge regarding the bioactives of Shenlingbaizhu granule.
The Good Behavior Game for students with special educational needs in mainstream education settings: A scoping review
Authors: Jornevald Maria , Pettersson‐Roll Lise , Hau Hanna
Published: September 2023

The Good Behavior Game (GBG) is a classroom management strategy that consistently demonstrates its ability to promote positive behaviors and peer relations among students, with immediate and long‐term benefits. This scoping review aimed to provide an overview of peer‐reviewed research on the GBG specifically focused on students with special educational needs (SEN) in mainstream education settings. Following a systematic search‐and‐selection procedure, 30 studies were included, 26 with an experimental design and 4 with a qualitative/mixed‐methods design. SEN participants were mainly subgroups of students with baseline assessments of emotional‐behavioral difficulties; there was, however, substantial clinical and methodological heterogeneity across studies. Integrative findings from quantitative and qualitative studies indicate that the GBG benefits most students with SEN in mainstream settings, while results for students with severe socio‐behavioral difficulties are ambiguous. We identified a paucity of research on students with neurodevelopmental diagnoses such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or autism spectrum disorder, as well as on the perspectives of students and teachers and challenges associated with the GBG for students with severe difficulties. Schools implementing the GBG should be aware that some students may need individual adaptations to participate in the GBG, and teachers may need support to implement these adaptations.
Self‐regulation and procrastination in college students: A tale of motivation, strategy, and perseverance
Authors: Elizondo Karla , Valenzuela Rafael , Pestana José V. , Codina Nuria
Published: September 2023

Procrastination is a delay in an intended course of action and, thus, a self‐regulation failure hindering growth and well‐being. Contrarily, self‐regulation is a set of cognitive and metacognitive skills and strategies supporting goal‐directed behavior. There is ongoing discussion regarding the extent to which (and the ways in which) promoting self‐regulation may counteract procrastination. On the one hand, it is argued that procrastination is linked with stable personal dispositions; on the other hand, it is said that this problematic behavior is associated with contextual influences. To deepen the understanding of these relationships, we used structural equation modeling (SEM) to test a theory‐driven model integrating four self‐regulation factors (goal setting, decision making, persevering, and learning from mistakes) and two measures of procrastination (irrational and academic). We hypothesized that goal setting, decision making, and perseverance would sequentially mediate between learning from mistakes and procrastination outcomes, thus, suggesting that cognitive‐motivational (learning from mistakes, goal setting), strategic (decision making), and volitional (perseverance) factors may all be necessary for successful self‐regulation, which could potentially be promoted by contextual influences. Participants of the present study were 433 Chilean university students (304 women, 129 men, M = 20.74 years, SD = 2.86) who completed measures for procrastination and self‐regulation. Findings support the important roles of goal setting and perseverance for successful self‐regulation and suggest that goal setting may mediate the effects of learning from mistakes on perseverance and decision making; whereas perseverance may mediate the effects of goal setting and decision making on procrastination variations. These results suggest that the negative effects of motivational and strategic factors of self‐regulation on procrastination may depend at least partly on the abilities to improve goals and persevere. Taking into account these critical roles in dealing with procrastination, it seems appropriate to support college students' self‐regulation skills and strategies, raising awareness about the indispensability of adequate goal setting and persistence in following through with intended courses of action.
Factors influencing behavioral cough suppression therapy in children with nonspecific chronic cough
Authors: Fujiki Robert Brinton , Wright Miranda L. , Fujiki Amanda E. , Thibeault Susan L.
Published: September 2023

Background

Behavioral cough suppression therapy (BCST) with a speech–language pathologist is a common treatment for chronic nonspecific cough (a.k.a., tic cough) in children. Yet, the outcomes and duration of pediatric BCST have eluded formal investigation. This study examined whether BCST improves cough in children with nonspecific cough and factors that predict the course of treatment. Additionally, the cough characteristics and comorbidities associated with the condition were examined.

Methods

A retrospective, observational cohort design was utilized. Cough characteristics, medical history, and BCST treatment details and outcomes for 151 children were extracted from the electronic medical record of a large outpatient pediatric otolaryngology clinic.

Results

Cough was dry and onset unaccompanied by illness in most cases. Roughly half of patients reported gradual onset and cough proceeded by tickle. On average, patients experienced symptoms for 19 months (SD = 20.09) before diagnosis. Rates of comorbid General Anxiety Disorder were elevated compared to pediatric norms. Additionally, high rates of asthma (22.1%), reflux (62.3%), and disordered sleep breathing (19.2%) were observed. Common findings on laryngoscopy included interarytenoid edema and erythema. Vocal fold changes were observed in 22.9% of children. BCST reduced cough in 92.5% of patients following an average of 1.7 sessions. Comorbid behavioral health diagnoses (p = 0.013) or induced laryngeal obstruction symptoms (p = 0.025) were significant predictors of increased therapy sessions. Cough proceeded by tickle significantly predicted fewer sessions in therapy (p = 0.011).

Interpretation

Although randomized clinical trials are needed, these data suggest that BCST is a low‐risk, effective treatment for children with nonspecific cough.
Effects of encapsulation of manganin gauges on the pressure profiles from shock initiation experiments
Authors: Miao Feichao , Jiang Tao , Li Dandan , Zhang Xiangrong , Zhou Lin
Published: September 2023

The Lagrangian test can measure the shock initiation process of explosives for different incident shock pressures. The manganin gauges record pressure histories for several DNAN‐based melt‐cast explosives. The encapsulation of the gauges results in three types of characteristic signals: (1) a step signal on the low‐pressure shock front, (2) a flatten Von Neuman's (VN's) spike on the high‐pressure shock front, and (3) a V‐shape signal behind the shock front. To reveal the mechanism underlying these characteristic signals, a one‐dimensional Lagrangian hydrocode, was used to simulate the propagation of a sustained shock in both ideal and non‐ideal systems. The simulation results show that the impedance mismatch between encapsulation material and explosives is the main reason for the three characteristic signals. The calibration of shock initiation model should take the encapsulation material into account so as to determine shock initiation model parameters accurately.
Identification of sex pheromone in Macdunnoughia crassisigna Warren (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) and field optimization of the sex attractant
Authors: Wang Liuyang , Yang Chaoxia , Mei Xiangdong , Guo Bingbo , Yang Xinling , Zhang Tao , Ning Jun
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Sex pheromones have proven to be a viable tool for monitoring and controlling pests and is an important part of integrated pest management (IPM). The noctuid moth Macdunnoughia crassisigna Warren poses a significant threat as a defoliator pest, impacting soybean and cruciferous vegetable production and quality in East Asia. However, a lack of comprehensive knowledge about its sexual chemical signaling hampers the development of semiochemical‐based IPM approaches for M. crassisigna.

RESULTS

We first determined the mating rhythms of M. crassisigna. We then collected pheromones from the sex glands of virgin females at the mating peak and analyzed their components using gas chromatography–electroantennogram detection analysis. The results showed that three components elicited significant electrophysiological responses in male antennae. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis characterized these components as (Z)‐7‐dodecene acetate (Z7‐12:OAc), (Z)‐9‐tetradecene acetate (Z9‐14:OAc), and (Z)‐11‐hexadecen‐1‐ol (Z11‐16:OH). Further field experiments indicated that the mixture of Z7‐12:OAc and Z9‐14:OAc at a ratio of 3:1 displayed significant attractivity to males, confirming its role as a putative sex pheromone of M. crassisigna. Long‐term monitoring tests showed that traps baited with these pheromone lures effectively mirrored the population dynamics of M. crassisigna.

CONCLUSION

This study successfully identified and validated the sex pheromone released by female M. crassisigna and formulated potent sex lures for field‐based pest monitoring. These findings enriched our understanding of chemical communication in Noctuidae and laid a foundation for developing practical monitoring and control methods against M. crassisigna. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Theoretical Investigation of Quantum Capacitance of M2C MXenes as Supercapacitor Electrode
Authors: Yin She-Hui , Li Xiao-Hong , Cui Hong-Ling
Published: September 2023

MXenes are promising electrode materials due to their excellent performance. However, the quantum capacitance (Cdiff) and surface storage charge (Q) of bare M2C are little reported theoretically up to now. Herein, Cdiff and Q of 12 M2C MXenes related with 3d, 4d, and 5d transition metal (TM) atoms are investigated in aqueous and ionic/organic systems. All M2C MXenes are metallic. M2C with 5d TM are cathode materials. M2C with 4d TM are also cathode materials except Y2C MXene. For M2C with 3d TM, Sc2C and Mn2C are cathode materials, while Ti2C, V2C, and Cr2C are anode materials, especially for Ti2C and V2C with larger |Qp|/|Qn| and Qp. The broadened voltage maintains the type of electrode materials. W2C is the least promising cathode material in broad voltage.
Commercial‐scale removal of short‐chain PFAS in a batch‐wise adsorptive bubble separation process by dosing with cationic co‐surfactant
Authors: Stevenson Paul , Karakashev Stoyan I.
Published: September 2023

Studies performed by Burns et al. in 2021 and 2022 demonstrated that a three‐stage batch‐wise adsorptive bubble separation process, surface active foam fractionation (SAFF), is effective at removing most per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) from contaminated groundwaters and landfill leachates. However, PFAS species with very low adsorption coefficients to bubble surfaces are difficult to remove, which is parallel to the difficulties in removing short‐chain PFAS in granulated activated carbon beds and other solid media. It is well known that the adsorption coefficient to bubble surfaces improves in the presence of electrolytes in solution and it has previously been shown that this improves the removal of PFAS. By developing a correlation for the removal percentage of one species or another of PFAS due to SAFF in commercial‐scale processes as a function of the adsorption coefficient, it is possible to generally estimate the removal percentage of any PFAS. The addition of a cationic co‐surfactant, cetrimonium bromide, to the feed can significantly further improve the adsorption coefficient and, as a consequence, materially improve the removal of short‐chain PFAS due to SAFF. A method for estimating this improved performance is in qualitative agreement with plant trials of SAFF at a North American site with a history of groundwater contamination due to the use of aqueous film forming foams firefighting foams, but the precise improvements appear to be dependent upon the concentration of the added co‐surfactant. The required concentration of co‐surfactant is significantly larger than might be expected on charge equivalence considerations, and this may be due to its consumption by other species in the feed, including PFAS that have not been accounted for. It is noted that the SAFF process may not be true foam fractionation and may, instead, be a bubble fractionator, both of which can be collectively described by the term “adsorptive bubble separation processes.”
Characterization of Secondary Metabolites Identified in Lentinula edodes and Determination of Their Biological Activities by in‐silico Antioxidant Screening
Authors: Amin Zeemal Seemab , Afzal Muhammad , Riaz Tanzeela
Published: September 2023

Mushrooms, like other fungi, are unique in the living world They have been assigned to the kingdom of Myceteae. Lentinula edodes(shiitake), is second‐largest and most often consumed edible mushroom in the world. Shiitake mushroom possess large capability to be used as food as it contains carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals, fibers, fatty acids, amino acids, etc. In current study powdered form mushroom used to form semisolid extract in selected fractions (Butanol, ethyl acetate, hexane, chloroform and aqueous). The aim of the current study was to explore phytoconstituents which have biological activities in selected fractions (n. hexane chloroform, and ethyl acetate) of methanolic extract of Lentinula edodes.GC‐MS, and HPLC analysis presented the secondary metabolites in all the selected fractions under taken. Chloroform fraction had the highest total phenolic, and total flavonoid which exhibited the maximum in vitro antioxidant ABTS potential (74.78±0.83) potential at 350 μg/mL while ethyl acetate has moderate and n‐hexane shows least concentration. Hemolysis essay showed less than 10 % lysis of RBC, s which indicates that fractions under study are active, and safe to use as herbal medicine. Biomolecules detected through HPLC and GC‐MS in fractions under study showed significant inhibition in paw inflammation (1.18±0.06) and yeast induced pyrexia (36.8±0.68) in dose dependent manner. Furthermore, In‐silico study showed that 4H‐Furo[3,2‐b] pyrrole‐5‐carboxylic acid have a strong interaction to NADPH oxidase, Myeloperoxidase as compared to standard Melatonin which shows best antioxidant compound which was confirmed in chloroform fraction.The outcomes of this research indicated that L. edodes significantly reduced inflammation and have ability to scavenge free radicals, prevent protein denaturation, also indicate the possible use in food and nutraceutical applications as an antioxidant, antipyretic, anti‐inflammatory, and antidiabetic agent.
Microwave‐assisted Four‐component Cascade Reaction: One‐pot Rapid Access in the Metal‐free Synthesis of Fully Substituted Pyrroles
Authors: Zhang Zhou , Li Jingpeng , Wang Zhuoyu , Xie Mengxi , Xia Xiansong , Huang Chao
Published: September 2023

A simple and rapid methodology for the synthesis of fully substituted pyrroles was accomplished by the reaction microwave‐assisted from amines, 4‐hydroxycoumarins, and ketones. This protocol proceeds via ketones Csp3−H oxidation Michael addition/ cyclization/ aromatization four‐component cascade reaction affording the fully substituted pyrrole in moderate to excellent yields only in 3 min. Simple reaction conditions, high yields, and compatibility are the advantages of this protocol.
A Fluorescent Benzothiazole Probe for the Detection of Carboxylesterase and Carbamate Pesticides
Authors: Feng Jingyi , Gong Yue , Bai Yuchen , Yang Shaoxiang , Tian Hongyu , Sun Baoguo
Published: September 2023

A benzothiazole fluorescent probe (probe 1) was developed for the determination of carboxylesterase and carbamate pesticides. The probe used benzothiazole as the fluorescent group and chlorophenyl acetate as the recognition group. The recognition mechanism of probe 1 for carboxylesterase was based on the enzymatic hydrolysis of chlorophenyl acetate by carboxylesterase. The solution of probe 1 gradually changed from light blue to dark blue as the concentration of carbamate pesticide increased. Probe 1 could detect the concentration of carbamate pesticide based on the linear functional relationship between the R/B*G (red, blue, green) value of the probe 1 solution photo and the concentration of carbaryl without professional personnel and equipment. Additionally, probe 1 was successfully used to detect the concentration of carbaryl in actual samples based on the curve function relationship between the fluorescence intensity of probe 1 at 434 nm and the concentration of carbaryl.
Lewis Acidity of Hydrosilanes: Synthesis of β‐Alkoxy Alcohols via the Triphenylsilane‐Catalyzed Ring‐Opening Reaction of Epoxides
Authors: Hashimoto Toru , Nishikimura Kohei , Hojo Makoto
Published: September 2023

Triphenylsilane (Ph3SiH) works as a Lewis‐acidic catalyst for the ring‐opening reaction of di‐ and tri‐substituted epoxides with alcohols, yielding β‐alkoxy alcohols under nearly neutral reaction conditions. This operationally simple protocol allows the facile synthesis of β‐alkoxy alcohols in good‐to‐excellent yield.
Visual Color Change During Spin‐coating Guiding the Quality of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 Films
Authors: Wang Zuoyun , Meng Rutao , Guo Hongling , Sun Yali , Xu Xuejun , Xu Han , Li Jianpeng , Zhang Yi
Published: September 2023

Solution method provides a low‐cost and environmentally friendly route for the fabrication of Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) thin‐film solar cells. However, uncontrollable quality of the CZTSSe absorber layer will severely limit the device's performance. In this study, it is find that the thickness and the quality of the formed precursor is not stable because of the variation of the viscosity of the precursor solution. Combined by different characterization methods, the results disclose that such change is strongly related to the reflected color of the first coating layer during precursor growth. Further studies disclose that only by maintaining the appropriate reflected color can a well‐crystallized CZTSSe film be prepared, thereby obtaining good solar cell efficiency. This semi‐empirical pattern is confirmed by thin‐film interference theory. Under the guidance of this method, CZTSSe absorbers with high quality are obtained easily, and the highly efficient CZTSSe solar cell can be fabricated easily. This study provides a feasible and effective strategy to obtain the optimal structure and composition of CZTSSe film toward the production of highly efficient kesterite solar cells, which can also be widely applied to the preparation of other films by solution‐based method.
A new approach for the strength interaction diagram of FRP strengthened square steel reinforced high strength concrete columns
Authors: Mai Anh Duc , Sheikh M. Neaz , Nguyen Quang Trung , Pham Anh Duc , Hadi Muhammad N. S.
Published: September 2023

This paper proposed a new approach for the strength interaction diagram (N‐M diagram) of FRP strengthened square steel reinforced high strength concrete (SSRHSC) column, considering the influence of the applied load eccentricity on the ultimate conditions of FRP strengthened high‐strength concrete (HSC). The analytical model for the strength interaction diagram of FRP strengthened SSRHSC (FRPS‐SSRHSC) columns, which incorporated the stress–strain models of constitutive materials into the rectangular stress block (RSB) method, was developed and verified against test data. The strength interaction diagrams of FRPS‐SSRHSC columns developed based on the proposed analytical model matched well with the test results, while the strength interaction diagrams developed using available design codes overestimated the experimental strength interaction diagrams. The effect of confinement ratio and longitudinal FRP strengthening on the strength interaction diagrams was examined via parametric analyses. It was found that longitudinal strengthening had a negligible influence on the axial load and bending moment when the axial load was applied at a small eccentricity but had a substantial influence when the axial load was applied at a large eccentricity.
The role of LOXL2 induced by glucose metabolism-activated NF-κB in maintaining drug resistance through EMT and cancer stemness in gemcitabine-resistant PDAC
Authors: Lee Yun Sun , Kim Hyung Sun , Kim Hyo Jung , Kang Hyeon Woong , Lee Da Eun , Kim Myeong Jin , Hong Woosol Chris , Kim Ju Hyun , Kim Minsoo , Cheong Jae-Ho , Park Joon Seong
Published: September 2023

Gemcitabine is considered a standard treatment for pancreatic cancer, but developing drug resistance greatly limits the effectiveness of chemotherapy and increases the rate of recurrence. Lysyl oxide-like 2 (LOXL2) is highly expressed in pancreatic cancer and is involved in carcinogenesis and EMT regulation. However, studies on the role of LOXL2 in drug resistance are limited. Here, we investigated the mechanism of LOXL2 induction and the effect of LOXL2 on EMT and CSC in gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer. Glucose metabolism was activated in gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer cells, and NF-κB signaling was regulated accordingly. Activated NF-κB directly induces transcription by binding to the promoters of LOXL2 and ZEB1. The EMT process was significantly inhibited by the coregulation of ZEB1 and LOXL2. In addition, LOXL2 inhibition reduced the expression of cancer stemness markers and stemness by regulating MAPK signaling activity. LOXL2 inhibits tumor growth of gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer cells and increases the sensitivity to gemcitabine in mouse models.

Key messages

We identified a specific mechanism for inducing LOXL2 overexpression in gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer. Taken together, our results suggest LOXL2 has an important regulatory role in maintaining gemcitabine resistance and may be an effective therapeutic target to treat pancreatic cancer.
Voluntary wheel running during adolescence prevents the increase in ethanol intake induced by social defeat in male mice
Authors: Reguilón Marina D. , Ferrer-Pérez Carmen , Manzanedo Carmen , Miñarro José , Rodríguez-Arias Marta
Published: September 2023

Rationale

Exposure to social defeat (SD) induces a depressive phenotype, increased ethanol seeking and consumption, accompanied by activation of the neuroinflammatory response. However, a resilient response can be potentiated through physical exercise in the form of voluntary wheel running (VWR) during or after exposure to social stress. Therefore, the aim of this study was to test whether physical exercise during adolescence prior to being exposed to SD can enhance resilience to the increase in ethanol intake.

Methods

Male mice had access to VWR during adolescence and the effects of social defeat (4 sessions every 72 h) on oral ethanol self-administration (SA) was evaluated. Based on the social interaction test, mice were classified as resilient or susceptible to depressive-like behavior. Two weeks after the last encounter, mice were subjected to the drinking in the dark and oral ethanol SA paradigms. Mice were then sacrificed to measure brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the striatum and hippocampus.

Results

As expected, susceptible mice increased ethanol intake in the oral SA protocol. However, susceptible mice in the exercise condition did not increase ethanol intake, showing similar consumption and motivation for ethanol than the control and resilient groups. On the other hand, decreased BDNF levels were observed in susceptible mice in both experimental conditions compared to the control groups after ethanol SA.

Conclusions

The pre-exposure of VWR prevented the increase in consumption and motivation for ethanol induced by SD in susceptible mice. On the other hand, it appears that VWR did not exhibit any significant long-term effects on BDNF signaling, which is mainly affected in susceptible mice after ethanol intake.
Putrescine, in Combination with Gibberellic Acid and Salicylic Acid, Improves Date Palm Fruit Quality via Triggering Protein and Carbohydrate Accumulation and Enhancing Mineral, Amino Acid, Sugar, and Phytohormone Acquisition
Authors: Talaat Neveen B. , Nesiem Mohamed R. A. , Gadalla Ezz G. , Ali Shaimaa F.
Published: September 2023

Putrescine (Put), gibberellic acid (GA3), and salicylic acid (SA) are involved in improving fruit growth and development. This is the first study investigating the effect of 1 mM Put, 100 mg L-1 GA3, and 100 mg L-1 SA on Phoenix dactylifera, cv. Zaghloul fruits. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design during two successive seasons and five treatments [control (distilled water spray), Put, Put + GA3, Put + SA, and Put + GA3 + SA] were sprayed at the Hababouk (cell division) stage and Kimri [unripe green (cell elongation)] stage. Our results showed that all treatments significantly improved the yield and quality of ‘Zaghloul’ fruit by increasing the dry matter, crude fiber, ash, total soluble solids, (reducing, non-reducing, and total soluble) sugars, carbohydrate, protein, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sodium, zinc, iron, and manganese content as well as the peroxidase and catalase activity. Compared with the control treatment, exogenous applications also enhanced the amino acid (glutamic acid, aspartic acid, proline, glycine, alanine, arginine, cysteine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, serine, threonine, tyrosine, valine) acquisition and phytohormone (indole-3-acetic acid, cytokinins, GA3, SA) content, while decreasing the percentage of moisture, total acidity, total phenols, and tannins. The novel evidence indicates that among all treatments, application of diamine (Put), in combination with phytohormones (GA3 and SA), has the greatest effect on improving ‘Zaghloul’ fruit yield by up-regulating the nutrient acquisition, sugar accumulation, amino acid profile, antioxidant response, and phytohormone performance. These findings support the use of Put in conjunction with GA3 and SA to improve fruit yield and quality.
Circadian entrainment to red-light Zeitgebers and action spectrum for entrainment in the jewel wasp Nasonia vitripennis
Authors: Wang Yifan , Jin Lijing , Belušič Gregor , Beukeboom Leo W. , Wertheim Bregje , Hut Roelof A.
Published: September 2023

Light is the most important environmental cue for the circadian system of most organisms to stay synchronized to daily environmental changes. Like many other insects, the wasp Nasonia vitripennis has trichromatic compound eye-based colour vision and is sensitive to the light spectrum ranging from UV to green. We recently described a red-sensitive, ocelli-based photoreceptor, but its contribution to circadian entrainment remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the possibility of Nasonia circadian light entrainment under long-wavelength red LED light–dark cycles and characterized the strength of red light as a potential Zeitgeber. Additionally, we measured the possibility of entrainment under various light intensities (from 5·1012 to 4·1015 photons·cm−2·s−1) and a broader range of wavelengths (455—656 nm) to construct corresponding action spectra for characterizing all circadian photoreceptors involved in photic entrainment. We also conducted electroretinogram (ERG) recordings for each wavelength in the compound eyes. Our findings demonstrate that Nasonia can entrain under red light dark cycles, and the sensory pathway underlying the red-light Zeitgeber response may reside in the ocelli. Combined with findings from previous research, we pose that blue- and green-sensitive rhodopsin photoreceptor cells function as the major circadian photoreceptors in both circadian entrainment by light–dark cycles and circadian phase shifts by light pulses, whereas the red-sensitive photoreceptor cell requires higher light intensity for its role in circadian entrainment by light–dark cycles.