bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hochenergetisches Kugelmahlen ermöglicht eine ultraschnelle Wittig‐Olefinierung unter atmosphärischen und lösungsmittelfreien Bedingungen
Authors: Templ Johanna , Schnürch Michael
Published: August 2024

30 Sekunden zum Erfolg! – Die Wittig‐Reaktion, eine grundlegende und weit verbreitete Reaktion in der organischen Synthesechemie, ermöglicht die effiziente Umwandlung von Carbonylverbindungen zu den entsprechenden Olefinen unter Verwendung von Phosphoniumsalzen. Traditionell ist ein sorgfältiger Reaktionsaufbau, einschließlich der vorangestellten Bildung einer reaktiven Ylid‐Spezies durch Deprotonierung eines Phosphoniumsalzes, entscheidend, um hohe Ausbeuten unter klassischen, lösungsmittelbasierten Bedingungen zu erzielen. In diesem Bericht stellen wir ein noch nie dagewesenes Protokoll für eine ultraschnelle mechanisch induzierte Wittig‐Reaktion unter lösungsmittelfreien Bedingungen vor, welches eine mühsame initiale Ylid‐Bildung unter striktem Luft‐ und Feuchtigkeitsausschluss oft überflüssig macht. Eine Reihe von Aldehyden und Ketonen wurde mit verschiedenen Phosphoniumsalzen mittels hochenergetischem Kugelmahlen umgesetzt, wobei die entsprechenden Olefine häufig in nur 30 Sekunden zugänglich waren.
Constructing Quasi‐Single Ion Conductors by a β‐Cyclodextrin Polymer to Stabilize Zn Anode
Authors: Zhang Guoqun , Fu Lulu , Chen Yuan , Fan Kun , Zhang Chenyang , Dai Huichao , Guan Linnan , Guo Haoyu , Mao Minglei , Wang Chengliang
Published: August 2024

Aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising for the next‐generation large‐scale energy storage. However, the Zn anode remains facing challenges. Here, we report a cyclodextrin polymer (P‐CD) to construct quasi‐single ion conductor for coating and protecting Zn anodes. The P‐CD coating layer inhibited the corrosion of Zn anode and prevented the side reaction of metal anodes. More important is that the cyclodextrin units enabled the trapping of anions through host–guest interactions and hydrogen bonds, forming a quasi‐single ion conductor that elevated the Zn ion transference number (from 0.31 to 0.68), suppressed the formation of space charge regions and hence stabilized the plating/striping of Zn ions. As a result, the Zn//Zn symmetric cells coated with P‐CD achieved a 70.6 times improvement in cycle life at high current densities of 10 mA cm−2 with 10 mAh cm−2. Importantly, the Zn//K1.1V3O8 (KVO) full‐cells with high mass loading of cathode materials and low N/P ratio of 1.46 reached the capacity retention of 94.5 % after 1000 cycles at 10 A g−1; while the cell without coating failed only after 230 cycles. These results provide novel perspective into the control of solid‐electrolyte interfaces for stabilizing Zn anode and offer a practical strategy to improve AZIBs.
Metallic Impurities in Electrolysis: Catalytic Effect of Pb Traces in Reductive Amination and Acetone Reduction
Authors: Kümper Justus , Mürtz Sonja D. , Guan Yani , Kumari Simran , Hausoul Peter J. C. , Kurig Nils , Sautet Philippe , Palkovits Regina
Published: August 2024

The electrochemical hydrogenation (e‐hydrogenation) of unsaturated compounds like imines or carbonyls presents a benign reduction method. It enables direct use of electrons as reducing agent, water as proton source, while bypassing the need for elevated temperatures or pressures. In this contribution, we discuss the active species in electrocatalytic reductive amination with the transformation of acetone and methylamine as model reaction. Surprisingly, lead impurities in the ppm‐range proved to possess a significant effect in e‐hydrogenation. Accordingly, the influence of applied potential and cathode material in presence of 1 ppm Pb was investigated. Finally, we transferred the insights to the reduction of acetone manifesting comparable observations as for imine reduction. The results suggest that previous studies on electrochemical reduction in the presence of lead electrodes should be re‐evaluated.
Preparation and Properties of 3D Spherical Bi2S3/Bi2O2CO3 Photocatalytic Materials Self‐Assembled by 2D Nanosheets
Authors: Zhou Ce , Wang Xiao‐li , Yu Hui , Yang Ming , Dong Xiang‐ting , Yang Ying
Published: August 2024

The micro‐morphology of photocatalytic materials has a great influence on their photocatalytic performance. Quantum dots can provide the plasmon resonance effect and broaden the wavelength range of light absorption. In this study, a kind of 3D spherical flower‐like structure was constructed by self‐assembly of 2D nanosheets, the Bi2S3 particles with 5 ± 1 nm diameter were modified on the surfaces of Bi2O2CO3 nanosheets to prepare the Bi2S3/Bi2O2CO3 composite. The energy level difference (0.45 eV) between the conduction bands (CB) of Bi2S3 and Bi2O2CO3 led to which the e− was transferred to CB of Bi2O2CO3. The energy level difference (0.83 eV) between the CB of Bi2O2CO3 and the valence band (VB) of Bi2S3 was much smaller than the band gap (1.28 eV) of Bi2S3, and it led to which the electrons on the CB of Bi2O2CO3 were recombined with the holes on the VB of Bi2S3. A kind of innovative type heterojunction was constructed between Bi2S3 and Bi2O2CO3, which encouraged the photogenerated h+ and ·OH to be located on the VB of Bi2O2CO3 with the strongest oxidation potential, the prepared material showed excellent performance for the photodegradation of RhB, and the active groups were also controlled in the photocatalysis process.
Design and Synthesis of a Novel Catalytic System Based on Pd Supported on Alumina Extrudates for Hydrotreating of PAO Lubricants
Authors: Karimi Mahsa , Sadjadi Samahe , Arabi Hassan , Bahri‐Laleh Naeimeh , Poater Albert
Published: August 2024

The development of hydrogenation processes for polyalphaolefin (PAO) lubricants, which hold commercialization potential, is a challenging endeavor. Here, we synthesized and characterized rod‐shaped γ‐alumina supported Pd catalyst for PAO hydrofinishing, comparing it with γ‐alumina supported Ni catalyst. Results indicated that Pd/Al2O3 catalyst efficiently promoted PAO hydrofinishing, whereas Ni‐based catalyst exhibited lower activity. Optimization of reaction variables using the one‐factor‐at‐a‐time method revealed that hydrogenated polyalphaolefin could be achieved with a 90% yield using a 5 wt.% catalyst, a hydrogen pressure of 12 bar, at 130°C after 7 h. The superior performance of the fabricated catalysts, coupled with the use of rod‐shaped alumina suitable for large‐scale hydrogenation reactors, suggests the versatility of the process for potential commercialization. Additionally, the higher performance of Pd/alumina compared to Ni/alumina catalyst was computationally assessed at the molecular level using DFT methods.
Enzymatic depolymerization of polyester: Foaming as a pretreatment to increase specific surface area
Authors: Patel Akanksha , Chang Allen C. , Abid Umer , Ayafor Christian , Wong Hsi‐Wu , Xie Dongming , Sobkowicz Margaret J.
Published: August 2024

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is widely used for its high strength‐to‐weight ratio, gas barrier properties, and chemical resistance. The growing PET use highlights the demand for a better recycling system. Enzymatic recycling, alongside mechanical and chemical methods, is eco‐friendly and yields properties similar to virgin PET. Substrate properties (Tg, crystallinity, and specific surface area [SSA]) and enzyme stability significantly impact conversion efficiency. Higher SSA and lower crystallinity tend to yield improved depolymerization when employing leaf compost‐cutinase (LCC‐ICCG) enzymes. This study explored melt extrusion and foaming as pretreatment techniques to modify PET structural properties, using a low‐cost chemical foaming agent (CFA). The monomer conversion rate and efficiency during depolymerization were measured and related to the processing, extrudate micro‐ and meso‐structure, and polyester type. Pretreated PET substrates showed reduced Tg, crystallinity, density, and enhanced SSA, resulting in a 90% mass loss for foamed RPET and VPET substrates within 2 days. In contrast, PET with ~30% of cyclohexanedimethanol comonomer exhibited a nearly 50% lower depolymerization rate, with zero BHET production. It indicates that the combination of low crystallinity, low Tg, and high SSA leads to improved monomer conversion. These findings emphasize the significance of amorphization and foaming in enhancing PET enzymatic depolymerization.
Robot‐assisted crack detection on complex shaped components using constant‐speed scanning infrared thermography with laser line excitation
Authors: Pech‐May Nelson W. , Lecompagnon Julien , Hirsch Philipp , Ziegler Mathias
Published: August 2024

Infrared thermography (IRT) using a focused laser is effective for surface defect detection. Nevertheless, testing complex‐shaped components remains a challenging task. The state‐of‐the‐art focuses on testing a limited region of interest rather than the full sample. Thus, detection and location of surface defects has been less researched. Most attempts require a manual scan of the full sample, which makes it hard to reconstruct the full scanned surface. Here, we introduce a reliable workflow for crack detection and semi‐automated inspection of complex‐shaped components using IRT excited with a laser line. A 6‐axis robot arm is used for moving the sample in front of the setup. This approach has been tested on a section of a rail and a gear, both containing defects due to heavy use. Crack detection is based on the segmentation of thermograms obtained by Fourier transform of sorted temperatures. Moreover, texture mapping is used to visualize a reconstructed thermogram on the 3D model of the sample. Our approach illustrates a reliable process towards the digitalization of thermographic testing.
Habitat Selection and Negative Effect of River Regulation on the Abundance of the Common Sandpiper (Actitis hypoleucos), a Riparian Shorebird
Authors: Elas Marek , Grabska‐Szwagrzyk Ewa , Meissner Włodzimierz
Published: August 2024

Rivers and other freshwater ecosystems have been severely changed by humans. This resulted in a distinct decline in the abundance of many aquatic organisms, as well as those living in water‐dependent habitats. Our work aimed to study the habitat selection of breeding common sandpipers (Actitis hypoleucos) and the impact of river regulation on the occurrence of this species.

Data were collected on a 100‐km stretch of the Vistula River, a semi‐natural, lowland and large European river. The distribution of birds was determined based on two censuses, while environmental variables were collected based on Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery classification, digital elevation model (DEM), digital surface model (DSM) and official data of river regulations.

The length of the shoreline of either the river or vegetated islands had a positive effect on the number of breeding territories of the common sandpiper. This indicates the importance of the presence of a natural riverbed with a complex shoreline. Moreover, sandpipers preferred islands over the river shores as nesting habitat. River regulations, such as groynes and riprap, had a negative impact on the abundance of breeding common sandpipers even though the river regulation was not intensive. The negative effect has been persisting for many years after the regulation was implemented, despite the degradation of regulatory structures over this period.
Parent‐mediated intervention in infants with an elevated likelihood for autism reduces dwell time during a gaze‐following task
Authors: Bedford Rachael , Green Jonathan , Gliga Teodora , Jones Emily H. , Elsabbagh Mayada , Pasco Greg , Wan Ming Wai , Slonims Vicky , Charman Tony , Pickles Andrew , Johnson Mark H. ,   The BASIS Team
Published: August 2024

Cognitive markers may in theory be more sensitive to the effects of intervention than overt behavioral measures. The current study tests the impact of the Intervention with the British Autism Study of Infant Siblings—Video Interaction for Promoting Positive Parenting (iBASIS‐VIPP) on an eye‐tracking measure of social attention: dwell time to the referred object in a gaze following task. The original two‐site, two‐arm, assessor‐blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) of this intervention to increase parental awareness, and responsiveness to their infant, was run with infants who have an elevated familial likelihood for autism (EL). Fifty‐four EL infants (28 iBASIS‐VIPP intervention, 26 no intervention) were enrolled, and the intervention took place between 9 months (baseline) and 15 months (endpoint), with gaze following behavior measured at 15 months. Secondary intention to treat (ITT) analysis showed that the intervention was associated with significantly reduced dwell time to the referent of another person's gaze (β = −0.32, SE = 0.14, p = 0.03) at 15‐month treatment endpoint. Given the established link between gaze following and language, the results are considered in the context of a previously reported, non‐significant and transient trend toward lower language scores at the treatment endpoint (Green et al. (2015) The Lancet Psychiatry, 2(2), 133–140). Future intervention trials should aim to include experimental cognitive measures, alongside behavioral measures, to investigate mechanisms associated with intervention effects.
Exploring the synergistic effects of circular economy, Industry 4.0 technology, and green human resource management practices on sustainable performance: Empirical evidence from Indian companies
Authors: De Tanmoy , Verma Pratima , Gangaraju Phanitha Kalyani , Nibhanupudi Siva Bhaskar Akhil , Mahlawat Seema , Kumar Vimal , Singh Sumanjeet
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the synergistic effects of circular economy (CE) practices, Industry 4.0 technology, and green human resource management (HRM) practices on sustainability and performance in Indian companies. CE focuses on resource efficiency, waste minimization, and material recyclability. Industry 4.0 incorporates modern digital technologies into manufacturing, resulting in smart factories that are more efficient and flexible. Green HRM practices include implementing human resource rules that promote environmental sustainability. Using structural equation modeling (SEM) on data from 213 respondents across various Indian firms, our research reveals several novel insights, such as CE practices significantly enhancing sustainability, demonstrating their critical role in minimizing waste and improving resource management; moderating the role of Industry 4.0: Industry 4.0 technology moderates the relationship between CE practices and sustainability, and green HRM practices positively affect CE practices and sustainable performance. Moreover, the study's uniqueness stems from its comprehensive approach, which reveals that combining these three elements CE practices, Industry 4.0 technology, and green HRM creates a powerful synergy that significantly improves both sustainability efforts and overall company performance, providing actionable insights for business looking to implement more effective and integrated sustainability strategies. These findings offer a valuable roadmap for companies aiming to achieve more impactful and cohesive sustainability initiatives.
Circular business model innovation and cognitive framing: Addressing the “missing micro”
Authors: Matoh Suzana , Russell Sally V. , Roelich Katy , Randles Sally
Published: August 2024

Circular business model innovation is an important driver for the implementation of circular economy across industries and has become one of the central research debates in recent years. However, while macro‐, meso‐, and organizational level factors influencing circular business model innovation have attracted vast research interest, less is known about micro‐, individual level factors. The question driving this paper is how do individuals' cognitive frames of sustainability influence their conceptualization of new circular business models? We argue that the notion of cognitive frames can help to address the problem of how individuals respond to new concepts with which they are unfamiliar, such as circular business models. The study is based on a multi‐stakeholder project Alpha (anonymized), which involved circular business model innovation for resource recovery from waste. Findings suggest that cognitive frames are of primary importance for sensemaking of circular business models and can influence sustainability aspects considered for value creation, value delivery, and value capture.
Country‐level analysis of the relationships between sustainability and the textile–clothing–leather–footwear industries
Authors: Khatami Fahimeh , Rinaldi Francesca Romana , Salvato Carlo , Ferraris Alberto
Published: August 2024

The current study aims to investigate the relationships between sustainability and the textile–clothing–leather–footwear (TCLF) industries in four countries, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain. The quantitative approach involved using the linear regression model for data from 2010 to 2020 related to three independent variables of TCLF configurations and six dependent variables of sustainability. Our findings show significant positive relationships between the trade balance values of agricultural raw materials (TB of ARM), footwear (TB of FOOT), and textiles and clothing (TB of TEXT), which were recognized as the key variables of the TCLF industries with overall sustainability and an emerging circular economy in the study areas. Among the four countries, the strongest correlations between TCLF industries and sustainability belonged to Italy. The novelty of this research lies in identifying the relevant variables from the World Integrated Trade Solution (WITS) and Eurostat databases to evaluate the TCLF industries–sustainability relationships at the country level.
Does a weekly ward‐based interpersonal therapy group reduce psychological distress for women in an acute psychiatric inpatient hospital? A service evaluation
Authors: Staite Emily , Francine Farah
Published: August 2024

Background

There is a limited amount of research assessing the effectiveness of group therapy on acute inpatient psychiatric wards, and mixed results from research assessing inpatient psychological therapies in general. Previous studies highlight challenges for conducting research on psychiatric inpatient hospitals, such as short admissions, high patient turnover, engagement challenges, acuteness of illness, overmedication and feelings of stigma and disempowerment.

Aims

This service evaluation aims to assess whether weekly ward‐based interpersonal group therapy reduces short‐term psychological distress for women on an acute psychiatric inpatient ward in inner‐city London (Tower Hamlets), UK.

Methods

This service evaluation compared psychological distress, as measured by the Clinical Outcomes in Routine Evaluation 10 (CORE‐10), pre‐ and post‐intervention for women attending a weekly ward‐based interpersonal therapy group between February 2023 and August 2023.

Results

There were 46 participants included in the analysis. There was an 11.3% decrease in the mean CORE‐10 score post‐intervention. Four (9%) patients exhibited significant and reliable change (i.e. short‐term psychological distress reduced to a ‘healthy’ level). A further three (7%) patients exhibited no significant change. Short‐term psychological distress did not significantly deteriorate for any patients who attended the ward‐based interpersonal therapy group.

Conclusion

It is feasible to collect pre‐ and post‐outcome data to assess psychological distress following a weekly ward‐based interpersonal therapy group over a 6‐month period, which meet acceptable a priori sample size calculations. The group appears to have an immediate positive impact for the majority (95%) of patients where short‐term psychological distress reduced or stayed the same; however, this was only significant for 16% of patients. It would be important to collect qualitative data, ideally using multiple methods or data sources for triangulation, in order to corroborate and strengthen the current findings. Practitioners cannot rely solely on the results of this study to demonstrate effectiveness of psychotherapeutic group interventions in acute inpatient settings.
Developing the professional identity of school counsellors in the Asia Pacific: Challenges and ways forward
Authors: Harrison Mark G. , Kee Low Poi
Published: August 2024

Background

School counselling in the Asia Pacific region has experienced enormous development in the last few decades but faces many serious challenges as counsellors seek to respond to the needs of young people in a complex and fast‐changing environment.

Aims

This article aimed to explore the challenges school counsellors face in finding a clear identity and sense of purpose.

Discussion

We outline the antecedents and consequences of a weak counsellor identity. We suggest that the future development of school counselling in the region rests on responding to the challenge of school counsellors finding a clear and robust identity by (1) adopting an ecological perspective and (2) developing culture‐specific, indigenous ways of counselling.

Conclusion

Given that the development of school counselling in this region has a long way to go, we briefly sketch some research priorities for the years ahead, which may contribute to the realisation and articulation of a stronger professional identity for school counsellors.
Three‐dimensional printed model reconstruction in intraoperative use for glass penetrating facial tissue removal
Authors: Basovsky Filip , Capek Lukas , Kucera Ivo , Ptacek Frantisek , Kriz Jakub
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

In the anatomically complex terrain of the head and neck, the use of 3D intraoperative models serves as an effective verification tool, determining the size, shape, and number of foreign bodies. This allows the main operator to maximize their capacities for careful wound revision and receive real‐time information about the remaining content of the sought‐after bodies.

Penetrating foreign bodies of various origins in the head and neck are uncommon, but potentially hazardous injuries. Complete removal of foreign bodies from soft tissues is essential for optimal healing, minimizing complications, and significantly reducing the risk of the need for reoperation. Despite various technological systems and safeguards available, unintentionally retained surgically placed foreign bodies remain difficult to eliminate completely. A 34‐year‐old female patient with a cut on the right side of her face who was initially treated with sutures at a general surgical clinic presented for a follow‐up examination. A foreign body was verified subcutaneously on the anterior–posterior x‐ray image on the right side. Computed tomography confirmed a total of 7 foreign bodies with a density corresponding to dental enamel, distributed subcutaneously, subfascially, and intramuscularly in the right temporal region. As part of the preoperative preparation and analysis, the bone segment of the right temporal fossa with the zygomatic bone and the glass fragments were segmented from the CT data and printed on an SLA printer. The physical 3D models were autoclave sterilized and present during surgery. The position, shape, and number of each individual glass fragment was compared with 3D‐printed one. The benefits of producing 3D models of foreign bodies are undeniable, particularly in their perioperative comparison with the removed foreign bodies from wounds.
Polypoid endometriosis—An exceptional subtype of endometriosis mimicking an aggressive pelvic cancer
Authors: Mahiou Katia , Harizay Fara Tanjona , Lanouziere Morgane , Martz Olivia , Filipuzzi Laurence , Rousselet Jean‐Marc , Martin Laurent , Arnould Laurent , Vega Mathilde Funes De La , Bergeron Anthony
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Polypoid endometriosis is a rare manifestation of endometriosis, which may mimic pelvic cancer. This subtype commonly encountered in post‐menopausal women may be wrongly mistaken for a neoplasm on clinical, radiological, perioperative or pathologic assessments leading to inadequate treatment.
Ovarian hemangioma: A rare encounter
Authors: Singh M. , Subedi P. , Adhikari B. , Sherchan A. , Bajrachrya A. , Mohanty S. , Dhakal H. P.
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Ovarian hemangioma, though rare and asymptomatic, can mimic malignant ovarian tumors, thus it is necessary for comprehensive histopathological and immunohistochemical evaluation for accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.
Spontaneous neck hematoma associated with parathyroid adenoma
Authors: Okano Mitsumasa , Yui Mitsuko , Teshima Masanori , Sakaguchi Kazuhiko
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

We should consider parathyroid extraglandular bleeding for patients with acute neck pain and swelling. Evaluation of serum calcium and parathyroid hormone levels is crucial for a suspected neck hematoma associated with parathyroid adenoma.
A rare case of symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural erythema with tamoxifen use
Authors: Hussain Syed Ather , Berenji Ryan , Faisal Sarah , Ali Liaqat , Knavel Ashley
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Symmetrical drug‐related intertriginous and flexural erythema is characterized by a diffuse symmetric rash of the gluteal and intertriginous areas with only one published report of association with tamoxifen. It is imperative for clinicians to recognize tamoxifen‐induced SDRIFE to avoid life‐threatening dermatologic complications, which can be resolved with discontinuation of tamoxifen.
Tert‐butyl hydroperoxide induces trabecular meshwork cells injury through ferroptotic cell death
Authors: Yan Xuejing , Liu Qian , Wu Shen , Fan Xiaowei , Teng Yufei , Wang Ningli , Zhang Jingxue
Published: August 2024

Trabecular meshwork (TM) tissue has a crucial role in regulating aqueous humor circulation in the eye, thus maintaining normal intraocular pressure (IOP). TM dysfunction causes IOP elevation, which leads to glaucoma. To investigate biological changes in TM tissue in patients with glaucoma, we analyzed the mRNA expression microarray dataset, GSE27276. Gene ontology analysis indicated that redox microenvironment imbalance is among the main changes of TM tissue in patients with glaucoma. Subsequently, we induced oxidative stress in TM cells using the tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (tBHP) treatment, to generate in vivo and in vitro models, and conducted mRNA sequencing to identify genes with critical roles in maintaining the redox microenvironment balance. We found that the tBHP caused TM dysfunction in vivo, characterized by aqueous humor circulation resistance, IOP elevation, and TM cell death. Further, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis showed that ferroptosis signaling was enriched in tBHP‐treated TM cells. Consistently, in vitro analyses showed that levels of reactive oxygen species, ferric ion, and malondialdehyde were increased after the tBHP treatment, indicating TM cell ferroptosis. Furthermore, inhibiting ferroptosis alleviated tBHP‐induced TM cell injury. This study provides new insights suggesting that inhibition of ferroptosis has potential as a treatment for glaucoma.
Thiazolo[5,4‐d]Thiazole‐Linked Conjugated Porous Organic Polymers for Visible Light‐Driven C−N Bond Formation Reactions
Authors: He Yuan‐Yuan , Ma Zhang‐Peng , Liu Chun‐Hua , Zhu Yuan‐Yuan
Published: August 2024

Due to their unique semiconducting properties, conjugated porous organic polymers (CPOPs) have garnered significant interest in various photocatalysis applications. In this study, we synthesize three thiazolo[5,4‐d]thiazole (TzTz)‐linked CPOPs with three polyaryl rigid cores of benzene (CPOP1), pyrene (CPOP2), and triazine (CPOP3). We investigated their efficacy in catalyzing visible light‐driven C−N bond formation reactions, including C−N cross‐couplings between aryl bromides and amines and amination reactions from aryl bromides and sodium azides. Among the three, only CPOP2, combined with NiCl2 or Ni(dtbbpy)Cl2, effectively facilitated these transformations. Notably, CPOP2 exhibited photocatalytic activities approximately six times higher than its small molecular counterpart C1 in both reactions. The CPOP catalyst was easily recovered through centrifugal separation and reused for five catalytic cycles with minimal loss of activity. Theoretical calculations revealed that the deliberate structural design of polyaryl moieties could effectively tune the energy gap, which is crucial for the photocatalytic activity in organic reactions. This study, therefore, demonstrates a novel application of TzTz‐linked CPOPs for heterogeneous photocatalytic organic transformations.
Discrete Macrocyclic Polymer Hosts‐Induced Cascade Luminescence Enhancement and Application in Bioimaging
Authors: Zhu Yu‐Qi , Chen Zhaojun , Chen Zhong‐Yuan , Zhou Zhi‐Wei , Bai Qian , Wu Ming‐Xue , Wang Xing‐Huo
Published: August 2024

The integration of polymers, supramolecular macrocycles and aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) molecules provides numerous possibilities for constructing various functional supramolecular systems. Herein, we constructed supramolecular assembled systems based on discrete macrocyclic polymer hosts via the cooperation of hydra‐headed macrocycles containing two or three pillar[5]arene units (defined as P2, P3), the block polymer F127 and AIE molecules (alkyl‐cyano modified tetraphenylethene, alkyl‐triazole‐cyano modified 9,10‐distyrylanthracene, defined as TPE‐(CN)4 and DSA‐(TACN)2). Compared with the binary assembly between hydra‐headed hosts or F127 and AIE molecules, cascaded supramolecular assembly‐induced emission enhancement (SAIEE) in aqueous solution was achieved in discrete macrocyclic polymer‐based supramolecular assembled systems. Considering the cascaded SAIEE performance, we have successfully applied discrete macrocyclic polymer‐based supramolecular assembled systems to bioimaging and constructed an artificial light‐harvesting system (LHs) to explore more potential applications. The supramolecular assembly form of discrete macrocyclic polymers hosts and AIE molecules proposed in this work provides new inspiration for the construction and application of high‐performance supramolecular luminescent systems.
Characteristics of Patients With Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Belgium and Current Treatment Patterns for the Management of Elevated LDL‐C Levels
Authors: Maury Eléonore , Brouyère Samuel , Jansen Mieke
Published: August 2024

Background

Dyslipidemia remains the major cause of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). Lipid management in patients with increased cardiovascular (CV) risk needs improvement across Europe, and data gaps are noticeable at the country level.

Hypothesis

We described the current treatment landscape in Belgium, hypothesizing that lipid management in patients with ASCVD remains inadequate and aiming to understand the reasons.

Methods

Using data from an anonymized primary care database in Belgium derived from 494 750 individuals, we identified those with any CV risk factor between November 2019 and October 2022 and described the clinical features of patients with ASCVD. The main outcomes were the proportion of patients (i) receiving lipid‐lowering therapies (LLTs), (ii) per low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) threshold, stratified per LLT, (iii) reaching the 2021 ESC recommended LDL‐C goals, and (iv) LDL‐C reduction per type of LLT was also determined.

Results

Among 40 888 patients with very high CV risk, 24 859 had established ASCVD. Most patients with ASCVD were either receiving monotherapy (59.6%) or had no documented LLT (25.1%). Further, 64.2% of those with no documented LLT exhibited LDL‐C levels ≥ 100 mg/dL. Among common treatment options, one of the greatest improvements in LDL‐C levels was achieved with combination therapy of statin and ezetimibe, reducing LDL‐C levels by 41.5% (p < 0.0001). Yet, in this group, 24.8% of patients had still LDL‐C levels ≥ 100 mg/dL and only 20.7% were at goal.

Conclusion

Our study emphasizes the importance of developing strategies to help patients achieve their LDL‐C goals, with a focus on supporting the implementation of combination LLT in routine clinical practice.
How to Find a Fragment: Methods for Screening and Validation in Fragment‐Based Drug Discovery
Authors: Kirkman Tim , dos Santos Silva Catharina , Tosin Manuela , Bertacine Dias Marcio Vinicius
Published: August 2024

Fragment‐based drug discovery (FBDD) is a crucial strategy for developing new drugs that have been applied to diverse targets, from neglected infectious diseases to cancer. With at least seven drugs already launched to the market, this approach has gained interest in both academics and industry in the last 20 years. FBDD relies on screening small libraries with about 1000–2000 compounds of low molecular weight (about 300 Da) using several biophysical methods. Because of the reduced size of the compounds, the chemical space and diversity can be better explored than large libraries used in high throughput screenings. This review summarises the most common biophysical techniques used in fragment screening and orthogonal validation. We also explore the advantages and drawbacks of the different biophysical techniques and examples of applications and strategies.
Evaluation of 2D Tantalum Carbide MXene for Room to Mid‐temperature Thermoelectric Applications
Authors: Syamsai Ravuri , Vijay Vaiyapuri , Easwaran Senthil Kumar , Navaneethan Mani
Published: August 2024

Tantalum carbide MXene (Ta4C3Tx) were synthesized via HF etching of the Al intermediate layer from the parental tantalum aluminium carbide MAX phase (Ta4AlC3). The structural and vibrational studies confirm the formation of MXene from the MAX phase without disturbing the hexagonal crystal structure. The synthesized samples were analysed using XRD to understand the phase structure. In and out of plane vibrational properties were examined by Raman spectrometer. XPS confirms the successful HF etching of Al in MXene phase and all other elemental configurations. HR‐SEM and HR‐TEM revile the exfoliated layered structure of the MXene and hexagon diffraction pattern of the tantalum carbide MXene sample with increased d‐spacing. The TGA analysis demonstrated the thermal stability of the as‐synthesized post measured compounds. The synthesized tantalum carbide MXene shows stable thermoelectric properties over six thermal cycles. The temperature dependent transport properties were measured from 303 K to 803 K. Ta4C3Tx MXene shows a maximum Seebeck coefficient of 13.8 μV/K and a power factor of 1.88 μW/mK2 with the low lattice thermal conductivity of 5.42 W/mK at 803 K. In this present investigation, Tantalum carbide MXene demonstrated a decent thermoelectric property with high thermal cycling stability.
A Pooled Population Pharmacokinetic Study of Oral and Intravenous Administration of Clavulanic Acid in Neonates and Infants: Targeting Effective Beta‐Lactamase Inhibition
Authors: Schouwenburg Stef , Keij Fleur M. , Tramper‐Stranders Gerdien A. , Kornelisse René F. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , De Cock Pieter A. J. G. , Dhont Evelyn , Watt Kevin M. , Muller Anouk E. , Flint Robert B. , Koch Birgit C. P. , Allegaert Karel , Preijers Tim
Published: August 2024

Data published on the oral clavulanic acid pharmacokinetics in the pediatric population is lacking. This research aimed to describe clavulanic acid disposition following oral and intravenous administration and to provide insights into clavulanic acid exposure based on threshold concentrations for (pre‐)term neonates and infants. This pooled population pharmacokinetic study combined four datasets for analysis in NONMEM v7.4.3. Clavulanic acid exposure was simulated using the percentage of time above the threshold concentrations (%fT > CT). Multiple dosage regimens and amoxicillin/clavulanic acid dosage ratios were evaluated. The cohort consisted of 89 (42 oral, 47 intravenous) subjects (403 samples) with a median (range) postnatal age 54.5 days (0–365), gestational age 37.4 weeks (23.0–41.7), and current bodyweight 3.9 kg (0.6–9.0). A one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption best described clavulanic acid pharmacokinetics with postnatal age as a covariate on the inter‐individual variability of clearance. Oral bioavailability was 24.4% in neonates up to 10 days of age. An oral dosing regimen 90 mg/kg/day amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (4:1 ratio) resulted in 40.2% of simulated patients achieving 100% fT > CT,2mg/L. An amoxicillin/clavulanic acid ratio of 4:1 is preferred for neonatal oral regimens due to the higher exposure along the entire %fT > CT range (0–100%) as ratios higher than 4:1 might result in inadequate exposure. Our results highlight substantial exposure differences (%fT > CT) when using threshold concentrations of 1 mg/L vs. 2 mg/L. This first population pharmacokinetic model for clavulanic acid in neonates may serve as a foundational step for future research, once more precise clavulanic acid targets become available.
Corporate environmentalism and value creation: Investigating the role of shared independent directors in green technology adoption and financial performance
Authors: Khan Jalal , Fengyun Wu , Fawad Arshad
Published: August 2024

Using social network theory and resource dependence theory, this study undercovers whether independent directors' interlocks contribute directly to the corporate financial performance of Chinese firms or indirectly through green technology innovation. Furthermore, we scrutinize how the environmental protection management system affects the path between independent directors' interlocks and green technology innovation. Using a sample of 4902 listed firms in China over the period of 2010–2022, the results indicate that firms possess interlocks through their independent directors play a crucial role in fostering performance and developing low‐carbon technologies. With an environmental protection management system, the impact of the independent directors' interlocks on corporate green technology innovation is stronger, indicating the significant role of corporate internal environmental context. This study offers practical implications for firms and policymakers by demonstrating how independent director interlocks can simultaneously advance corporate and national economic and environmental objectives.
The moderating role of investor sentiments between sustainability reporting and firm reputation. Evidence from Chinese listed firms
Authors: Abideen Zain Ul
Published: August 2024

This study explores the relationship between sustainability reporting, investor sentiments, and firm reputation in the Chinese stock market. Utilizing panel data from 2018 to 2023 on non‐financial A‐share firms in China, this study employs OLS regression and advanced techniques to ensure robustness, including tests for heteroskedasticity and addressing endogeneity concerns through 2SLS, and potentially the two‐step GMM approach. Analysis exhibits a positive relationship between sustainability reporting, investor sentiments, and firm reputation. Strong sustainability practices correlate with more positive investor sentiment and enhanced firm reputation, aligning with sustainable development principles. Limitations include the restricted data timeframe, suggesting broader insights could be gained by extending the analysis period. Additionally, the study's focus on brand equity as a metric for reputation may overlook other facets. Future research could explore alternative reputation metrics and measurement methods. Integrating environmental, social, and governance reporting into corporate strategies can drive long‐term value creation and sustainable development, offering actionable insights for policymakers, investors, and corporate decision‐makers. This study contributes unique insights into how sustainability reporting influences investor sentiment and firm reputation within the Chinese stock market context, leveraging the SR framework and focusing on firms in China, thus providing valuable perspectives on a dynamic market.
Schistosoma excretory/secretory products: an untapped library of tolerogenic immunotherapeutics against food allergy
Authors: Rogers Madeleine , Kamath Sandip , McManus Donald , Jones Malcolm , Gordon Catherine , Navarro Severine
Published: August 2024

Food allergy (FA) is considered the ‘second wave’ of the allergy epidemic in developed countries after asthma and allergic rhinitis with a steadily growing burden of 40%. The absence of early childhood pathogen stimulation embodied by the hygiene hypothesis is one explanation, and in particular, the eradication of parasitic helminths could be at play. Infections with parasites Schistosoma spp. have been found to have a negative correlation with allergic diseases. Schistosomes induce regulatory responses to evade immune detection and ensure their long‐term survival. This is achieved via excretory/secretory (E/S) products, consisting of proteins, lipids, metabolites, nucleic acids and extracellular vesicles, representing an untapped therapeutic avenue for the treatment of FA without the unpleasant side‐effects and risks associated with live infection. Schistosome‐derived immunotherapeutic development is in its infancy and novel discoveries are heavily technology dependent; thus, it is essential to better understand how newly identified molecules interact with host immune systems to ensure safety and successful translation. This review will outline the identified Schistosoma‐derived E/S products at all life cycle stages and discuss known mechanisms of action and their ability to suppress FA.
Micritisation products in the inner ramp settings of the Abu Dhabi Lagoon
Authors: Teillet Thomas , Harkat Mohamed , Hachmann Kai , Garuglieri Elisa , Chandra Viswasanthi , Daffonchio Daniele , Sánchez‐Román Mónica , Vahrenkamp Volker
Published: August 2024

In numerous carbonate reservoirs in the Middle East, peloidal packstone‐grainstones are rock types with excellent pore storage potential in micritised microporous grains. However, the origin of the micro‐porosity and associated micro‐spar remains unclear, and one hypothesis is that both micro‐spar and porosity originate from early marine micritisation and were later altered during subsequent diagenesis (i.e. cementation recrystallisation). The south‐eastern coast of the Arabian Gulf is recognised as a modern, albeit miniature, depositional setting analogue to Mesozoic carbonate sequences that form the supergiant reservoirs of the Middle East. Using optical microscopy, backscattered scanning electron microscopy and carbon and oxygen stable isotope analysis the present study aims to document the nature of internal microstructures of micritic envelopes and peloids from the surface sediments of various sub‐environments of the Abu Dhabi Lagoon. Results highlight a high degree of diversity and heterogeneities of most micritic envelopes and peloids observed across the sub‐environments. First, carbonate grains from ooid and bioclastic shoals show the simpler micritic envelopes. Here, micritic envelopes and peloids show sparse microborings filled with banded radial aragonite cement, a pattern of production of cryptocrystalline texture (e.g. micritisation) that is similar to the sequence of micritisation observed in the modern sediment of the Great Bahama Bank. Conversely, in the subtidal and intertidal zones with mangroves or seagrass, the micritic envelopes and peloids are much more complex and show multiple generations of microborings that are either empty or filled with carbonate materials of varying types (i.e. various cements, fragments, etc.).
Caregiver burden and depression among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other nonheterosexual individuals in the United States: Analysis of BRFSS 2015–2018
Authors: Xie Hui , Wen Chi , Li Yannan , Theodoropoulos Nicholas , Wang Qian
Published: August 2024

The number of caregivers in the US continues to rise. However, the epidemiology and mental health among lesbian, gay, bisexual, and other nonheterosexual (LGB+) caregivers remain unknown. We aimed to characterize the epidemiology of caregiving burden/information among LGB+ caregivers in the United States, as well as to examine depression and related risk factors. By using the data from the 2015–2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), we conducted weighted hierarchical logistic regression models to explore the associations between depression, caregiving information, health behaviors, sex, and sexual orientation among an estimated population of 9,521,313 LGB+ caregivers. Among the caregivers aged 18–79 years, 4.81% identified as LGB+. Notably, 19.21% of the caregivers reported experiencing depression, with distinctive rates observed among male LGB+ caregivers and female LGB+ caregivers were 38.22% and 51.43%, respectively. Meanwhile, nearly 45.00% of male LGB+ caregivers offered care to nonrelatives, a significantly higher rate compared to their heterosexual counterparts (23.32%, p < 0.001). The logistic regression models revealed that both male LGB+ caregivers (odds ratio [OR]: 3.56; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.45–8.77) and female LGB+ caregivers (OR: 2.38; 95% CI: 1.00–5.63) exhibited a higher likelihood of reporting depression compared to male heterosexual peers. Additionally, caregivers seeking support services for their caregiving responsibilities were more likely to report depression (OR: 1.47; 95% CI: 1.12–1.94). Our study revealed higher caregiving burden and depression among LGB+ caregivers in the United States, warranting further research and targeted support to address their unique challenges and improve services to caregivers.
The importance of heuweltjie patch isolation, size, and quality for arthropods in the Succulent Karoo, South Africa
Authors: Davids Liaam , Pryke James S. , Seymour Colleen L.
Published: August 2024

A characteristic feature of Earth's drylands is the patchy nature of the vegetation, often referred to as a two‐phase mosaic landscape, comprised of a homogenous matrix containing distinctive vegetated patches. The latter are considered vital for ecosystem functioning as they provide refuge to biota from unsuitable conditions. Ground‐living (epigeic) and foliage arthropods contribute to dryland biodiversity patterns and processes, but little is known of how their richness, abundance, and composition varies between patches and the matrix in these systems. Throughout the Succulent Karoo, South Africa, such patches (earthen mounds referred to as heuweltjies) are hotspots for both floral and faunal diversity. We investigate how epigeic and foliage‐dwelling arthropod species richness, abundance, and community composition respond to heuweltjie patch characteristics, particularly isolation (distance to nearest neighbor, average distance to nearest neighbor, patch density), size (area), and quality (average plant height, dead plant cover, leaf litter cover, termite frass) during a severe drought. Patch isolation and quality were significantly correlated with arthropod richness, abundance, and community composition. More specifically, average proximity of sampled heuweltjies to other neighboring heuweltjies, termite frass, and vegetation structure (height, leaf litter and dead plant cover) were key determinants for epigeic and foliage‐dwelling arthropods' species richness, abundance, and community composition. The uniqueness of these mounds as landscape features increases niche and microhabitat availability for arthropods. This emphasizes their importance as promoters of landscape heterogeneity and highlight heuweltjies as key to the spatial distribution of arthropod assemblages in the Succulent Karoo.