bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, Characterization, Density Functional Theory Study, Antibacterial Activity and Molecular Docking of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐8
Authors: Amur Safdar Ali , Sharma Bharat Prasad , Soomro Najaf Ali , Khuhro Quratulain , Tariq Muhammad , Liang Hao , Kazi Mohsin , Nur‐e‐Alam Mohammad
Published: November 2024

In this study, Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) nanomaterials were synthesized using a co‐precipitation one‐pot method that uses ethanol, methanol, and water as solvents for the precursors (2‐methylimidazole and Zinc nitrate hexahydrate), resulting in yields of 66.77%, 73.14%, and 68.12%, respectively. The as‐synthesized ZIF‐8 nanomaterials were thoroughly characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis, transmission electron microscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. The X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the crystallite size of ethanol‐based ZIF‐8 (24.76 ± 1.67 nm) was smaller than those synthesized in water (26.92 ± 1.89 nm) and methanol (31.39 ± 1.03 nm). However, methanol‐based ZIF‐8 exhibited lower crystallinity (85.93%) than water‐based ZIF‐8 (91.48%) and ethanol‐based ZIF‐8 (92.71%). Zeta potential studies revealed that ethanol‐based ZIF‐8 had a larger surface charge (+37 mV) than water‐based ZIF‐8 (+35 mV) or methanol‐based ZIF‐8 (+24 mV) |SPINPDF101. Transmission electron microscopy analysis confirmed particle sizes of 54.35 ± 2.11 nm for ethanol‐based ZIF‐8, 57.91 ± 2.26 nm for water‐based ZIF‐8, and 63.25 ± 4.12 nm for methanol‐based ZIF‐8. Thermogravimetric analysis indicated thermal stability up to 800 °C, with mass losses of 55.98% for ethanol‐ZIF‐8, 50.12% for water‐based ZIF‐8, and 65.36% for methanol‐based ZIF‐8 by 600 °C. In antibacterial studies, water‐based ZIF‐8 exhibited the largest zone of growth inhibition (17.30 ± 0.26 mm) against Escherichia coli compared to ethanol‐based ZIF‐8 (15.57 ± 0.32 mm) and methanol‐based ZIF‐8 (14.70 ± 0.20 mm). Pearson's correlation study revealed that zeta potential, crystallinity, and antibacterial activity are positively related. Furthermore, water‐based ZIF‐8, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of 50 μg/100 μL, confirmed evident cell membrane disruption. Molecular docking experiments revealed ZIF‐8's significant binding affinity for the E. coli protein 5AZC, supporting its robust antibacterial activity.
Reducible Drug Pyrazinamide as a Powerful Ligand to Assist Copper (II)‐Catalyzed N‐Arylation
Authors: Chai Mengliang , Wang Sha , Wu Fengtian
Published: November 2024

Herein, pyrazinamide (L1) was used as a powerful ligand to promote a CuSO4‐catalyzed reaction between aryl halides and imidazole (HID) under mild conditions, generating various N‐arylation products in good to excellent yields. The findings indicate that CuSO4 was reduced and coordinated with L1 to form [CuIL1], which activated ArX to produce [ArCuIL1X] through oxidative addition. This intermediate subsequently underwent reductive elimination to form N‐arylation products, with [ArCuILID] being generated from a reaction between [ArCuIL1X] and HID. This method was successfully extended to the synthesis of 2‐phenylindole and pyrrolo[1,2‐a]quinoxaline under mild conditions. The method significantly enhances the efficiency and cost effectiveness of C‐N coupling reaction.
Microwave‐Assisted/Pd‐Catalyzed Regioselective Double C‐N Arylations of 1,2,3‐Triiodobenzene: Efficient and Unexpected Synthesis of N1,N2‐Bis(2,3‐diiodoaryl)benzene‐1,2‐diamines
Authors: Al‐Zoubi Raed M. , Obaidawi Manal J. , Al‐Jammal Walid K. , Shkoor Mohanad , Bani‐Yaseen Abdulilah D.
Published: November 2024

A simple, direct, and regioselective protocol to the synthesis of N1,N2‐bis(2,3‐diiodoaryl)benzene‐1,2‐diamines through highly regioselective microwave‐assisted/palladium‐catalyzed double C‐N arylations of 1,2,3‐triiodobenzene and benzene‐1,2‐diamine is reported. Remarkably, the C‐N arylations proceeded bimolecularly at the terminal positions, the most active and less hindered position. This process was efficient and tolerated a wide range of substrates. The reaction of electron‐rich/neutral 1,2,3‐triiodoarene systems and electron‐rich 1,2‐diamines under the optimized conditions provided the highest isolated yields. This article describes a method for the first and unprecedented synthesis of tetra‐iodinated N1,N2‐diarylbenzene‐1,2‐diamine and iodinated 5,10‐dihydrophenazine products that is regioselective and scalable and provides useful derivatives for other chemical reactions especially in the synthesis of new NHC ligands.
ZIF‐67 derivatives of NiCo2S4 Decorated in Salen‐Complex Amine Functionalization GO Layers for High‐Performance Applications in Supercapacitor Devices
Authors: Vijaya N. , Sujitha S. Daisylin Anbu , Shankar Amalraj , Khot Suhas , Kanna C. Barath , AlSalhi Mohamad S. , Selvankumar T. , Kim Seong‐Cheol , Santhamoorthy Madhappan , Ramesh Pugalenthi
Published: November 2024

The study develops polyamine‐functionalized graphene oxide–supported NiCo2S4 nanomaterial using a metal–organic framework (MOF). This modification adds free amines and oxygen functionality to the graphene oxide electrode surface, resulting in the decrease in the 2 theta value from 11.2 to 7.1 and an increase in the interlayer spacing value from 1.4 to 7.8 nm. This modification enhances the surface properties, leading to improved wettability and dispersion stability. Additionally, bimetallic nanoparticles of NiCo2S4, synthesized via the ZIF‐67 MOF template, further enhance performance. Analysis confirms the successful fabrication of ZIF‐67/f‐GO/NiCo2S4 electrode material through various techniques such as XPS spectra, FE‐SEM, XRD, and Raman spectra. The resulting Salen‐fGO@NiCo2S4 composite exhibits impressive specific capacitance, reaching 2581.65 F g−1 at 10 A g−1 with 82% capacity retention after 5000 cycles. Employing this composite in a hybrid supercapacitor yields remarkable energy and power densities of 40 and 920 W kg−1, individually, while maintaining 74% capacity retention rate at 10 A g−1. These findings offer promising prospects for advanced energy storage applications.
Strategic management of employee churn: Leveraging machine learning for sustainable development and competitive advantage in emerging markets
Authors: Agrawal Poorva , Ghangale Seema , Dhar Bablu Kumar , Nirmal Nilesh
Published: November 2024

Employee churn or attrition presents significant challenges, especially in emerging markets, where it can disrupt business operations and inflate recruitment costs. This research leverages machine learning techniques to predict employee churn, focusing on developing sustainable and inclusive retention strategies that enhance business competitiveness. By analyzing a range of predictive algorithms and key variables associated with churn, the study identifies the most effective models for predicting attrition. A comprehensive exploratory data analysis was conducted using an indigenous machine learning model, offering practical insights for human resource management in emerging markets. The findings align with the sustainable development goals (SDGs), promoting decent work, and economic growth. This study contributes to business strategy by proposing data‐driven solutions for workforce stability and sustainable development.
How do therapists in the UK navigate the issue of loneliness when working with destitute asylum seekers? A focus group using reflexive thematic analysis
Authors: Gerayeli Elmira , Kyriakopoulos Alex
Published: November 2024

Background

This research study explores how therapists in the United Kingdom (UK) navigate the issue of loneliness when working with destitute asylum seekers (DAS). Loneliness and social isolation have adverse effects on the mental and physical health of individuals, and migrants, including asylum seekers and refugees, are particularly vulnerable to these challenges.

Aim

The study aimed to provide valuable insights into the strategies employed by therapists to address loneliness in this specific population and may contribute to the development of effective interventions and programmes in mental health services for asylum seekers.

Findings

Braun and Clarke's reflexive thematic analysis of focus group data revealed two main themes: (1) perceived factors that impact loneliness and (2) therapeutic strategies for alleviating loneliness.

Conclusion

This paper concludes with a discussion of the findings of this study and provides recommendations for future research directions, aiming to further enhance our understanding and support for DAS in addressing loneliness and to continue improving mental health services for this vulnerable population.
Overcoming clay structure challenges in lithium recovery from boron waste using high‐temperature pressure acid leaching
Authors: Younes Noha Nagy , Turan Mehmet Deniz , Erdem Mehmet
Published: November 2024

Boron mines contain significant amounts of lithium along with boron. After boron is extracted, lithium remains in the waste, which has a carbonate‐hosted clay‐type structure, along with other impurities. The scarcity of lithium resources and the increasing need for lithium worldwide make such resources economically important. Although the best hydrometallurgical method for the recovery of lithium trapped within the clay‐structured mineral resources is roasting with chemicals to disrupt the clay structure and acid leaching, the process is quite difficult and costly due to the high energy and chemical addition requirements. To overcome this challenge, this study proposed a high‐temperature–pressure sulphuric acid leaching process to recover lithium from the boron waste. Under the optimized conditions (liquid/solid ratio: 10, acid concentration: 1 M, temperature: 150°C, and contact time: 120 min), 100% of lithium was leached. The leaching mechanism was determined through mineral characterization (X‐ray diffractometry [XRD], X‐ray fluorescence spectrophotometer [XRF], scanning electron microscopy–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy [SEM–EDX], Mastersizer), and a shrinking core heterogeneous kinetics model. It was found that high‐temperature–pressure sulphuric acid leaching disrupted clay structure and promoted the leaching of lithium, the leaching kinetics fit the shrinking core heterogeneous kinetics model, and was controlled by a dual mechanism with ash diffusion and chemical reactions on the particle surface. The reaction rate constants increased with increasing temperature, and the activation energy was found to be 32.17 kJ/mol.
Mapping Biodiversity Conservation Priorities for Protected Areas for Spatial Optimization: A Case Study in the Songnen Plain, China
Authors: Sun Qiaoyun , Yu Jianqi , Zeng Yingran , Gai Yifang , Wang Jia , Zhang Yujun
Published: November 2024

The decline in biodiversity poses a serious threat to natural ecosystems and has become one of the most pressing global environmental issues. Establishing conservation priorities for protected areas (PAs) is one of the most direct and effective biodiversity conservation measures. However, conservation gaps arise as a result of existing problems in spatial layout of PAs, including overlapping protection scopes, artificial fragmentation of natural ecological regions, as well as “over‐protection” and “over‐exploitation.” To optimize the spatial layout of PAs and improve the efficiency of biodiversity conservation, we employed the Habitat Quality module of the Integrated Assessment of Ecosystem Services and Tradeoffs (InVEST) model and the Maximum Entropy (MaxEnt) model to assess the PAs in the Songnen Plain, China. The combined model (MaxEnt‐InVEST) revealed that the conservation priorities for PAs in the Songnen Plain occupied a total area of 14,764.14 km2 (10.24% of the total area of the Songnen Plain). The conservation priorities outside PAs occupied a total area of 7858.45 km2 (5.45% of the total area of the Songnen Plain) and were primarily distributed in the northeastern, central, and southwestern regions of the Songnen Plain. This indicated that existing PAs did not offer adequate protection for local biodiversity. The consistency of our combined modeling framework was 72.11%, which enabled a more accurate assessment of biodiversity hotspots and respects the land uses of the Songnen Plain. In addition, the modeling framework successfully created maps of conservation gaps of biodiversity hotspots based on actual species distribution data and considers current land uses. Our study was aimed at optimizing the spatial conservation efficiency of the Songnen Plain by assessing the conservation gaps in the Songnen Plain. It could provide a reference for the future development of a PA system centering on national parks.
Electrochemical Sensing/Biosensing ‐ Bench to Market
Authors: Janegitz Bruno
Published: November 2024

The proposition of new sensors based on carbon (nano)structures as well as metal (nano)particles is a great alternative for electroanalysis. In this context, graphite, carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon black and fullerene, as well as gold, silver, platinum, copper are the most common materials employed [1]. Also, biomolecules such as antibodies, DNA sequences, enzymes and aptamers can be promising molecular recognition elements and enable specific sensor/biosensor designs, with interferent species [2]. Since the pioneering works from Professor Joseph Wang [3,4], the screen‐printed and disposable electrodes have been reported in the literature as options to be used in point‐of‐care and point‐of use sites. Also, the evolution of 3D printing [5] and wearable devices have led to an increase in the number of papers reporting on their use.. The “Achilles heel” is that the laboratory creations don't make it to the market place [6]. Therefore, academia needs to think more about in the validation, demonstration and promotion of the laboratory developed technology with of new companies based on startups, for example, to attract investments and promote these sensors to commercial ones. In this context, the special issue “Electrochemical Sensing/Biosensing ‐ Bench to Market” brings the discussion and advances of electrochemical sensors, which can be used in many areas, such as medical, environmental, food safety, pharmaceutical, and forensic. For this purpose, the preparation, characterization, and application of these devices have attracted interest. Studies of the production, shelf‐life as well as reproducibility, and repeatability have been highlighted for mass production. Important subjects such as screen printing, and 3D printing are welcome for submissions. Therefore, we expect you to enjoy this Special Issue published in Electroanalysis. References   [1] R. M. Silva, A; D. Silva, J. R. Camargo, B. S. Castro., L. Muniz Meireles P. S. Silva B. C. Janegitz , T. A. Silva, Biosensors 2023, 13(4), 453 [2] L. C.Brazaca, P. L. Santos, P. R. Oliveira, D. P. Rocha, J. S. Stefano, C. Kalinke, R. A. A. Muñoz, J. A. Bonacin, B. C. Janegitz, E. Carrilho, Analytica Chimica Acta 2021, 1159, 338384 [3] J. Wang, M. Pedrero, H. Sakslund, O. Hammerich, J. Pingarron, Analyst, 1996,121, 345 [4] J. Wang, B. Tian, Analytical Chemistry, 1992, 64, 15, 1706 [5] R. D. Crapnell, C. Kalinke, L. R. G. Silva , J. S. Stefano, R. J. Williams, R. A. A. Munoz, J. A. Bonacin, B. C. Janegitz, C. E. Banks, Materials Today, 2017, 71, 73 [6] L. C. Brazaca , J. A. Bonacin , R. A. A. Muñoz , B. C. Janegitz , E. Carrilho. Brazilian Journal of Analytical Chemistry 2024, 11, 43, 15.
A Double‐Arch‐Structured Hybrid Triboelectric and Piezoelectric Nanogenerator Based on Polyvinylidene Fluoride/Graphene Oxide Composite Films
Authors: Feng Yunhao , Xu Jing , Dai Yang , Cui Xiao , Zhong Xiaojiang
Published: November 2024

In this study, a methodology for fabricating double‐arch triboelectric and piezoelectric composite nanogenerators using polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and graphene oxide (GO) is presented. Initially, nanofiber films comprising PVDF/GO are synthesized through electrostatic spinning. Subsequently, the PVDF/GO film is integrated with cotton fibers and a copper electrode to construct the triboelectric layer. In contrast, another portion of the PVDF/GO film, alongside a copper electrode, comprises the piezoelectric layer, with the central copper electrode acting as a common electrode. Finally, a double‐arch structure is established by employing polyethylene terephthalate film to facilitate synergistic operation between the triboelectric and piezoelectric layers. In the experimental results, it is indicated that the maximum open‐circuit voltage and short‐circuit current of the triboelectric layer of the double‐arch structure are 330 V and 36 μA, respectively, representing increases of 44% and 50% compared to those of the sandwich triboelectric structure. Additionally, the maximum open‐circuit voltage and short‐circuit current of the piezoelectric layer are 22 V and 4 μA, respectively, reflecting enhancements of 57% and 100% over those of conventional sandwich piezoelectric structures. The output power of the double‐arch composite nanogenerator is capable of lighting up 120 light‐emitting diodes. Thus, this composite nanogenerator shows great potential as an environmentally friendly energy source.
Early Warning of Energy Storage Battery Fault Based on Improved Autoformer and Adaptive Threshold
Authors: Cheng Guixue , Zhang Nana , Liu Hongsheng
Published: November 2024

To enhance voltage prediction accuracy in energy storage batteries and address the limitations of fixed threshold warning methods, a fault warning approach based on an improved Autoformer model and adaptive thresholds is proposed. First, a spatiotemporal filtering layer is introduced into the autocorrelation mechanism to analyze the trend features of voltage sequences across different frequency domains. Additionally, an adaptive gating residual connection is used to link the sublayer and current layer output features, which helps to improve the model's adaptive feature selection capability. This innovation enables the development of a robust voltage prediction model based on the enhanced Autoformer. Then, a similarity‐based adaptive threshold, using interval estimation, is employed to rapidly track variations in battery voltage, enabling dynamic adjustment of voltage thresholds. Finally, the proposed method is validated with real voltage data from an operational energy storage station. The experimental results shows that the proposed model has higher accuracy and robustness compared to similar methods. The adaptive threshold can reduce the false alarm rate by ≈18% and issue alarms at three sampling points ahead of the battery management system alarm, improving fault warning accuracy and illustrating that early fault warning is effectively and practically carried out using the method.
Distributed photovoltaic reactive power control strategy based on improved multiobjective particle swarm algorithm
Authors: Liu Hongli , Li Hao , Li Ji , Shao Lei
Published: November 2024

Distributed power supply access to the distribution network, although it can effectively support the band voltage, will also cause problems such as voltage overruns at the point of grid connection and large network losses, so this paper establishes a reactive power optimization model containing three objectives: network loss, voltage fluctuation rate, and static reactive power generator (SVG) installation capacity in distributed photovoltaic power generation scenarios by taking advantage of the characteristics of SVG that both absorb and send out reactive power. A multiobjective particle swarm algorithm with an adaptive grid and roulette mechanism is introduced to ensure the uniformity and diversity of the Pareto boundaries under the constraint that the output of each device does not exceed the constraints, and to obtain the optimal set of solutions capable of coping with the stochastic fluctuations of distributed power sources. When the algorithm is compared with three other algorithms, such as nondominated sorting genetic algorithm‐II, the results show that it reduces the network loss by about 25% and significantly improves the voltage fluctuation rate.
Carbon dioxide hydrate formation in porous media under dynamic conditions
Authors: Guo Boyun , Islam Muhammad‐Towhidul , Mahmood Md‐Nahin
Published: November 2024

Injecting carbon dioxide (CO2) into subsea water zones where the in situ temperatures are below the hydrate‐forming temperature of CO2 has been recently proposed to lock CO2 inside the water zones in solid hydrate form. It is a common concern that CO2 may form hydrates during the injection period that will reduce well injectivity. CO2 injection into sandstone cores under simulated subsea temperatures of 2°C and 3°C was investigated in this study. Experimental result shows that, at 2°C temperature, flowing CO2 at Darcy velocity 0.033 cm/s begins to form hydrate in the sandstone core at about 3.06 MPa (450 psi), which is much higher than the minimum required pressure of 1.5 MPa (220 psi) for CO2 to form hydrate in static condition. The pressure ratio is 450/220 = 2.05. At 3°C temperature, flowing CO2 at Darcy velocity 0.045 cm/s begins to form hydrate in sandstone core at about 3.67 MPa (540 psi), which is much higher than the minimum required pressure of 1.87 MPa (275 psi) for CO2 to form hydrate in static conditions. The pressure ratio is 540/275 = 1.96. The reason why the required minimum pressure for CO2 to form hydrates in dynamic conditions is about double the required hydrate‐forming pressure in static conditions is not fully understood. It is speculated that the shear rate effect of flowing fluids should slow down the growth of hydrate crystals or break down hydrate films, resulting in delayed formation of bulk CO2 hydrates. More investigations in this area are needed in the future.
It Matters How You Got There and Who Else Is Doing It: Examining the Effects of Two Social‐Contextual Characteristics of Working From Home
Authors: McAlpine Kristie L. , Bell Bradford S. , Léon Emmanuelle
Published: November 2024

Drawing on self‐determination theory, this study advances our understanding of employees' experiences working from home (WFH). Specifically, we examine the effects of two social‐contextual characteristics of WFH arrangements: whether employees voluntarily initiate their arrangement (WFH initiation) and the proportion of WFH employees in a unit (WFH density). We conducted multilevel analyses on a multisource dataset drawn from organizational HR records and two surveys of 2115 WFH employees in a Fortune 500 organization. Employees who voluntarily initiated WFH, rather than at their employer's direction, experienced higher job autonomy and lower isolation. WFH employees in units with a lower proportion of other WFH employees experienced higher job autonomy. WFH initiation and WFH density also had effects on several distal employee outcomes, including job satisfaction, organizational knowledge, and turnover intentions, through their effects on job autonomy and isolation. Our findings provide valuable insight into the experiences of WFH employees and call attention to two important, yet understudied, factors that shape these experiences.
Design Optimization of a Plate‐Fin Heat Exchanger With Metaheuristic Hybrid Algorithm
Authors: Pachpute Santosh L. , More Kiran C.
Published: November 2024

This paper introduces a novel approach to enhance the heat transfer efficiency of a plate‐fin heat exchanger. The metaheuristic hybrid approach combines particle swarm optimization (PSO) with the genetic algorithm (GA). Seven critical design parameters are used as variables. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of this hybrid method through a case study based on existing literature. The numerical results show the superior performance of the hybrid genetic algorithm particle swarm optimization over conventional GA and PSO techniques. The hybrid method achieves an optimal configuration with increased accuracy in a shorter computational time, offering significant time and cost savings in the design process.
COVID‐19, Board of Directors and Pessimism in Annual Reports: An Intention to Mitigate Litigation Risk
Authors: Albitar Khaldoon , Elmarzouky Mahmoud , Karim ATM Enayet , Gerged Ali Meftah
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of corporate COVID‐19 disclosure on the negative tone (pessimism) in annual reports. We also investigate how board size and board independence influence pessimism in annual reports. Using a U.K. sample from 2020, we employ various techniques to explore the COVID‐19 disclosure‐pessimism nexus. Our findings, supported by Tobit regression and a two‐stage least squares (2SLS) model, reveal a positive association between COVID‐19 disclosure and pessimism in annual reports. We observe that managers tend to disclose COVID‐19 information pessimistically as a risk mitigation strategy, aiming to prevent future earning shocks and potential litigation costs. Interestingly, our results also indicate that large boards and independent directors can bolster governance power, safeguarding firms against potential litigation costs by increasing pessimism in annual reports, both during and beyond the COVID‐19 pandemic.
The Jahn–Teller distortion‐induced electronic structure regulation of Mn‐doped Co3O4 for enhanced acetone detection
Authors: Zhao Liang , Xin Congcong , Yu Chengchao , Xing Yunpeng , Wei Zefeng , Zhang Hongda , Fei Teng , Liu Sen , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Tong
Published: November 2024

The modulation of the electronic structure of metal oxides is crucial to enhance their gas‐sensing performance. However, there is lacking in profound study on the effect of electronic structure regulation on sensing performance. Herein, we propose an innovative strategy of Jahn–Teller distortion‐induced electronic configuration regulation of Co3O4 to improve acetone sensing performance. After the introduction of Mn3+ into Co3O4 (Mn‐Co3O4), the Jahn–Teller distortion of high‐spin Mn3+ (t2g3eg1) conversed to low‐spin Mn4+ (t2g3eg0), resulting in conversion of Co3+ (t2g6eg0) into Co2+ (t2g6eg1). As expected, Mn‐Co3O4 exhibits a high response value of 46.7 toward 100 ppm acetone, low limit of detection of 0.75 ppb, high selectivity, and high stability, which are overwhelmingly superior to previous Co3O4‐based acetone sensors. The dynamics and thermodynamics analysis demonstrate that the Mn doping improves sensing reaction rate, reduces reaction barrier, and promotes the charge transfer. The theoretical calculations further prove the charge transfer from Mn to Co derived from Jahn–Teller distortion and support promoting the adsorption of acetone on Co3O4 by Mn dopant. Moreover, we demonstrated the substantial potential application of Mn‐Co3O4 sensor as a monitoring gas sensor in pest resistance of Arabidopsis. This work provides a new strategy to design sensing materials from electronic configuration perspective.

image
Only time will tell: How teams centralize their voice around competent members over time to perform better
Authors: Wu Jing , Tangirala Subrahmaniam , van Knippenberg Daan , Shu Rui
Published: November 2024

We posit that time significantly impacts how voice—members' expression of work‐related ideas—becomes unequally distributed within teams. Building upon insights from expectation states theory (EST), we propose that over time, voice becomes more centralized in teams, especially around members who are more competent than others. Moreover, we argue that teams whose members are higher in conscientiousness or openness to experience are better able to place more competent members in central speaking roles early on as well as progressively replace less competent members with more competent ones in those roles. Finally, we predict that, in comparison to teams that have egalitarian voice distributions, those that end up with more centralized voice distributions perform better when they give their most competent members more dominant speaking roles and perform worse when they do not. We found general support for these arguments in a study using four waves of data collected over time from 175 student project teams. Thus, we highlight how voice centralization does not always have negative consequences for teams but can benefit teams in certain circumstances. We discuss the implications of our findings for theory and practice.
Analysis of salinity‐induced metabolome changes in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) roots and shoots: hydroponic versus microplot cultivation
Authors: Zayed Ahmed , Goyal Vinod , Kiran Kiran , Attia Heba , Farag Mohamed A.
Published: November 2024

Background

Brassica juncea L. (family Brassicaceae) or Indian mustard is a fast‐growing oilseed crop. Climate changes mean that it is very important to evaluate the effects of salinity stress on B. juncea. The aim of this study was therefore to show the metabolic effect of salinity stress on shoots and roots using two cultivation models – hydroponic and microplot – in different cultivars, including RH‐725 and RH‐761. Salinity levels of 5, 7.5, and 10 dS m⁻¹ were investigated, and compared with a control of 0 dS m⁻¹, using untargeted metabolomics with gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) post‐silylation, focusing on metabolic markers such as proline and glycine‐betaine.

Results

A total of 56 metabolites were identified, with the most prevalent classes belonging to sugars (8), followed by organic acids (13), amino acids (11), and fatty acids/esters (11). Shoots were found to have a higher sugar content than roots. Increases in unsaturated fatty acids were also associated with salinity stress, compared with a decrease in saturated fatty acids. Absolute levels of proline and glycine‐betaine correlated with salinity stress, with the largest increases detected in shoots grown under hydroponic conditions, particularly for the RH‐761 cultivar. Multivariate data analyses revealed that roots were more affected than shoots, regardless of cultivation model.

Conclusion

These findings might explain the different metabolic behavior of B. juncea's roots and shoots under various levels of salinity, associated with higher levels of free sugars in shoots and lipids in roots. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Producing high‐colloidal‐stability sesame paste: structural role of stone milling‐modified protein
Authors: Yang Dongmei , Du Chenxing , Tang Zijian , Duan Zhangqun , Luo Shuizhong , Zheng Zhi
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Sesame paste faces issues with poor colloidal stability during storage, thereby affecting product quality and consumer experience. This study aimed to modify the proteins in sesame paste through stone milling and investigated the differences in stability produced in this environment, with the goal of addressing this issue.

RESULTS

As the number of grinding times increased from one to three, the median diameter of sesame paste significantly decreased from 85 to 74 μm (P < 0.05), and the centrifugal oil separation rate dropped from 9.05% to 6.82%. Rheological measurements indicated an increase in the flow behavior index (n) from 0.51 to 0.61. Confocal laser scanning microscopy results revealed a more uniform co‐distribution of protein and oil when ground thrice. The β‐sheet content of the protein in sesame paste increased from 52.92% to 56.34%, with enhancements in surface hydrophobicity, hydrophobic interactions and emulsification of protein. When the number of grinding times increased to five, the particle size of the sesame paste was further reduced and the β‐sheet content of the protein decreased to 51.00%, while the oil separation rate increased to 7.78%.

CONCLUSION

Stone milling induces structural modifications in proteins, which in turn alter the internal structure of sesame paste, resulting in varying levels of oil separation at different grinding times. Among them, sesame paste ground thrice showed a 25% reduction in the oil separation rate and experienced minimal oil separation over 120 days, making it suitable for practical production. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
The proteomic landscape of extracellular vesicles derived from human intervertebral disc cells
Authors: Li Li , Al‐Jallad Hadil , Sun Aiwei , Georgiopoulos Miltiadis , Bokhari Rakan , Ouellet Jean , Jarzem Peter , Cherif Hosni , Haglund Lisbet
Published: November 2024

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) function as biomarkers and are crucial in cell communication and regulation, with therapeutic potential for intervertebral disc (IVD)‐related low back pain (LBP). EV cargo is often affected by tissue health, which may affect the therapeutic potential. There is currently limited knowledge of how the cargo of IVD cell‐derived EVs varies with tissue health and how differences in proteomic profile affect the predicted biological functions.

Methods

Our study purified EVs from human IVD cell conditioned media by size‐exclusion chromatography. Nanoparticle tracking analysis was conducted to measure EV size and concentration. Transmission electron microscopy and Western blot were performed to examine EV structure and markers. Tandem mass tag‐mass spectrometry was conducted to determine protein cargo.

Results

Most EVs were exosomes and intermediate microvesicles with an increasing amount linked to disease progression. Of the proteins detected, 88.6% were shared across the non‐degenerate, mildly‐degenerate, and degenerate samples. GO and KEGG analyses revealed that cargo from the mildly‐degenerate samples was the most distinct, with the proteins in high abundance strongly associated with extracellular matrix (ECM) organization and structure. Shared proteins, highly expressed in the non‐degenerate and degenerate samples, showed strong associations with cell adhesion, ECM–receptor interaction, and vesicle‐mediated transport, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that EVs from IVD cells from tissue with different degrees of degeneration share a majority of the cargo proteins. However, the level of expression differs with degeneration grade. Cargo from the mildly‐degenerate samples exhibits the most differences. A better understanding of changes in EV cargo in the degenerative process may provide novel information related to molecular mechanisms underlying IVD degeneration and suggest new potential treatment modalities for IVD‐related LBP.
Detection of Nonlinearity in Photonic Lattices
Authors: Jia Pengbo , Li Zhaochen , Xia Shiqiang , Bongiovanni Domenico , Tang Liqin , Qi Wenrong , Zhang Yingying , Zhao Xingdong , Su Keyu , Zhu Zunlue , Hu Yi
Published: November 2024

Although periodic photonic structures, especially associated with nonlinearity, play a prominent role in optics nowadays, effective detection of their nonlinearity still remains a critical challenge. Here, an approach is proposed to detect the nonlinearity of photonic lattices in a direct way. By properly launching structured beams, namely Airy beams, into the lattices, the nonlinear response function of the discrete system can be directly obtained in the nonlinearly‐shaped beam profiles. To be specific, a single Airy beam is utilized to map self‐defocusing nonlinearity, while self‐focusing nonlinearity, which is hard to visualize in the bulk case, is readily discerned by employing double Airy beams in photonic structures. The proposed method is validated numerically and experimentally by detecting different types of nonlinearities of photonic lattices fabricated in a nonlinear crystal. These findings introduce a promising route for characterizing the nonlinear response of optical structures, thereby broadening the scope of nonlinear measurement and is expected to be extended into other periodic photonic structures.
Fluorinated Polymeric Multilayers by Off‐Stoichiometric Thiol‐Ene Photopolymerization
Authors: Trusiano Giuseppe , Joly‐Duhamel Christine , Friesen Chadron M. , Bongiovanni Roberta , Vitale Alessandra
Published: November 2024

This article reports the synthesis of a novel perfluoropolyalkylether (PFPAE) vinylether monomer and its use as a comonomer in the thiol‐ene photopolymerization of a trifunctional thiol together with a trifunctional vinylether. The crosslinked copolymers are obtained in the form of few mm thick layers and characterized. By changing the thiol/ene ratio, the polymers are optimized to tailor their surface composition and obtain adhesion between two thick layers despite the presence of the fluorinated monomer. The final bilayered structures are adhesive, and appeared chemically resistant, with good dimensional stability: therefore, these fluorinated thiol–ene based copolymers are likely to be of interest for applications based on layer‐by‐layer processes, such as additive manufacturing and microfluidics.
Socioeconomic mobility, metabolic health, and diet: mediation via subjective socioeconomic status
Authors: Bittner Julia M. P. , Gilman Stephen E. , Chen Zhen , Perkins Neil J. , Cheon Bobby K.
Published: November 2024

Objective

Socioeconomic mobility, i.e., changing socioeconomic status (SES) between adolescence and adulthood, may impact health through changing resources, social status, and health‐related behaviors. This analysis examined whether subjective SES contributes to associations of mobility with metabolic health (BMI and metabolic syndrome) and unhealthy diets (fast‐food consumption and sugar‐sweetened beverage [SSB] consumption).

Methods

National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health data were used (n = 4132). Mobility was defined as the difference between adolescent (collected 1994–1995, ages 11–19 years) and adult (collected 2016–2018, ages 33–43 years) SES. Linear and logistic regressions examined associations of mobility with metabolic and dietary outcomes and mediation by subjective SES.

Results

Substantial upward mobility was associated with lower risk of high SSB consumption compared with stable disadvantaged SES (risk difference: −0.10 [95% CI: −0.16 to −0.041]). Subjective SES mediated associations of upward, but not downward, mobility with risks of developing metabolic syndrome, high fast‐food consumption, and high SSB consumption; upward mobility was associated with higher subjective SES and lower risks of poor metabolic and dietary outcomes.

Conclusions

The finding that subjective SES contributed to associations between upward mobility and better health may inform development of interventions designed to promote healthier diets and reduce socioeconomic disparities in metabolic health.
In silico and functional analysis identifies key gene networks and novel gene candidates in obesity‐linked human visceral fat
Authors: Wang Lijin , Seshachalam Pratap Veerabrahma , Chua Ruiming , Zhou Hongwen , Lei Sun , Ghosh Sujoy
Published: November 2024

Objective

Visceral adiposity is associated with increased proinflammatory activity, insulin resistance, diabetes risk, and mortality rate. Numerous individual genes have been associated with obesity, but studies investigating gene regulatory networks in human visceral obesity have been lacking.

Methods

We analyzed gene regulatory networks in human visceral adipose tissue (VAT) from 48 and 11 Chinese patients with and without obesity, respectively, using gene coexpression and gene regulatory network construction from RNA‐sequencing data. We also conducted RNA interference‐based functional tests on selected genes for effects on adipocyte differentiation.

Results

A scale‐free gene coexpression network was constructed from 360 differentially expressed genes between VAT samples from patients with and without obesity (absolute log fold change > 1, false discovery rate [FDR] < 0.05), with edge probability > 0.8. Gene regulatory network analysis identified candidate transcription factors associated with differentially expressed genes. A total of 15 subnetworks (communities) displayed altered connectivity patterns between obesity and nonobesity networks. Genes in proinflammatory pathways showed increased network connectivity in VAT samples with obesity, whereas the oxidative phosphorylation pathway displayed reduced connectivity (enrichment FDR < 0.05). Functional screening via RNA interference identified genes such as SOX30, SIRPB1, and OSBPL3 as potential network‐derived candidates influencing adipocyte differentiation.

Conclusions

This approach highlights the network architecture in human obesity, identifies novel candidate genes, and generates new hypotheses regarding network‐assisted gene regulation in VAT.
Analysis of Adherence to AAO‐HNSF Clinical Practice Guidelines for Sudden Hearing Loss
Authors: Sciscent Bao Y. , Lorenz F. Jeffrey , Eberly Hänel W. , Rothka Andrew J. , Whitaker Mark E. , Goyal Neerav
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess adherence to the 2019 American Academy of Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck Surgery (AAO‐HNSF) guidelines for the diagnosis and management of sudden hearing loss (SHL) and sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

TriNetX, a de‐identified healthcare database.

Methods

Evaluation focused on the percentage of patients undergoing proper guideline‐adherent workup and treatment for SHL. Key measures include audiogram testing within 2 weeks for distinguishing SSNHL from CHL. For SSNHL patients, MRI or auditory brainstem response (ABR) testing should be obtained, and steroids and/or hyperbaric oxygen may be offered within 2 weeks.

Results

There were 24,203 SHL patients, 59.1% (n = 14,309) of whom underwent recommended audiogram testing, with 35.8% (n = 8,674) completing it within 2 weeks. Overall, 3,107 were diagnosed with unilateral SSNHL, 104 with unilateral conductive hearing loss (CHL), 121 with mixed hearing loss, and 10,977 were lost to follow‐up. Among 3,107 SSNHL cases, just 25.5% (n = 791) obtained MRI/ABR within 1 month, and vestibular schwannoma was diagnosed in 3.5% (n = 28). Additionally, steroids were prescribed to 54.5% (n = 1,692), and <0.3% (n ≤ 10) received hyperbaric oxygen. In accordance with strong recommendations against or insufficient evidence to support the following diagnostics and treatments, 2.0% (n = 63) underwent a CT scan, less than 0.3% (n ≤ 10) were prescribed vasodilators or thrombolytics, and 3.5% (n = 108) were on antivirals.

Conclusion

There is a significant opportunity for improvement in evaluating patients with SHL, specifically SSNHL. Proper adherence to guidelines may improve screening, detection, and management of neurotologic pathologies, including vestibular schwannoma.
Support Experiences and Wishes of Bereaved Parents After the Loss of Their Child to Cancer
Authors: Vokinger Anna Katharina , Pedraza Eddy Carolina , Tinner Eva Maria , von Bueren André Oscar , Scheinemann Katrin , Bergstraesser Eva , Michel Gisela , De Clercq Eva
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The death of a child has a tremendous impact on parents’ lives. The experience of parents who have lost a child to cancer may differ from other bereavement experiences, including other childhood and adulthood causes of death, because of the uncertainty of the prognosis, the aggressive treatment, and the potential for regret about treatment decisions. Bereavement care remains scarce, and effective interventions to meet the diverse needs of parents have not been defined.

Objective

To provide insights on bereaved parents’ experiences, their needs, and wishes of support following the loss of their child to cancer.

Methods

We conducted 18 qualitative, in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with 23 bereaved parents (seven fathers, 16 mothers), and used reflexive thematic analysis to analyze the data.

Results

Parents received both informal and professional support. Regarding informal support, parents expressed a high level of ambivalence rooted in grief illiteracy. Parents also recognized their own struggles to express what forms of informal support they would have liked to receive. Support provided by healthcare professionals, institutions, and organizations involved in the children's care or in bereavement was inconsistent due to personnel time constraints, interpersonal relationships, or disruptions due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. These factors could result in parents not having access to certain forms of support or not receiving long‐term support.

Conclusion

Improving grief literacy may strengthen informal support and make discussions of grief and death less taboo. Institutional policies, training, and networking may help to ensure that support provided by healthcare professionals, institutions, and organizations is less vulnerable to inconsistencies.
Tunable negative permittivity behavior and excellent electromagnetic shielding performance of pyrolytic carbon‐glass fiber felt/epoxy resin metacomposites
Authors: Cui Heng , Cheng Chuanbing , Hu Zhiyuan , Wang Xinle , Ma Rongwei , Liu Yuanhui , Li Chenxu , Li Yibo , Wang Zhihao , Chen Min , Fan Runhua
Published: November 2024

Effective and accurate adjustment of negative permittivity behavior is worthy of further investigation. Herein, pyrolytic carbon‐glass fiber felt/epoxy resin (PyC‐GFF/ER) metacomposites with tunable negative permittivity were prepared using an impregnation‐calcination method. The permittivity, electrical conductivity, and electromagnetic shielding performance of the polymer metacomposites were investigated. Due to the inherent three‐dimensional structural network of GFF, the PyC adhering to the surface of glass fiber easily formed a conductive network in the composites. As the PyC content increased in the ER composites, the conductivity mechanism changed from hopping conduction to metal‐like conduction. The ER composites with high PyC contents showed negative permittivity behavior and the epsilon‐near‐zero response owing to the low frequency plasma state of free electrons in the PyC‐conduction network. By controlling the PyC content, the negative permittivity behavior of ER composites could be effectively tuned. With the increase in PyC content, the values of negative permittivity increased, and the epsilon‐near‐zero frequency shifted to a higher frequency. Moreover, the ER composites with high PyC contents showed excellent electromagnetic shielding properties (29.4 dB) at X‐band. This work not only provided a feasible method to realize the tunable negative permittivity of polymer metacomposites, but also promoted its application in the microwave field.

Highlights

The pyrolytic carbon‐glass fiber felt/epoxy resin composites were fabricated.

The negative permittivity was first reported in the PyC‐GFF/ER composites.

Tunable negative permittivity could be well explained by Drude model.

The polymer composites had excellent electromagnetic shielding property.
Endophytic Bacillus velezensis GsB01 controls Gleditsia sinensis wilt by secreting antifungal metabolites and modulates symbiotic microbiota within trees
Authors: Zeng Jian‐Yong , Chen Kai‐Di , Wei Bu‐Fei , Cui Ze‐Zhao , Xu Zi‐Yi , Wang Hua‐Ling , Li Hui‐Ping
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Identifying effective biological control agents against fungal pathogens and determining their mechanisms of action are important in the control of plant diseases.

RESULTS

In this study, we isolated an endophytic bacterial strain, GsB01, from the branches of asymptomatic Gleditsia sinensis. Multi‐locus sequence analysis identified the strain as Bacillus velezensis. GsB01 exhibited significant antifungal activity against Thyronectria austroamericana, the causative agent of G. sinensis wilt. Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry identified four consistently present antimicrobial compounds in GsB01 metabolite fractions with high antifungal activity: macrolactin A, bacillaene A, surfactin, and iturin. GsB01's active metabolite fractions altered the metabolic profiles of T. austroamericana, disrupting seven pathways, including arginine biosynthesis, nucleotide metabolism, purine metabolism, and the pentose phosphate pathway. Furthermore, absolute quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis suggested that GsB01 may increase the abundance of endophytic bacteria in G. sinensis. The 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing revealed changes in the endophytic landscape in stems and roots following GsB01 introduction, particularly with significant variation in the dominant bacterial genera within the stems.

CONCLUSION

The study highlights GsB01's potential against plant wilt and suggests that its antifungal activity is achieved by secreting antifungal metabolites. The study also recorded changes in the symbiotic microbiota within trees that had been infected with a pathogenic fungus and subsequently treated with an endophytic antagonistic bacterial strain. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.