bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Significance of Nigella sativa on Histomorphological Variations of Seminiferous Tubules in Doxorubicin Treated Albino Rats
Authors: Kumar Ashok , Rehman Anjum , Sundus Sadia , Fatima Saher , Ahmed Zeeshan , Aijaz Asma
Published: February 2022

Objective: To analyze the impact of nigella sativa on Histomorphological changes in doxorubicin treated albino rats.

Research Design: Experimental research.

Abode of Study: Anatomy Department, BMSI, Karachi, Pakistan.

Materials and Methods: Piloted on 40 albino rats for 35 days in the Anatomy Department of BMSI. They were 3-4 months old and about 221 to 238 gm in weight. Rats were separated into 4 groups, Ao, Bo, Co & Do. Ao represented as control, Bo recieved Doxorubicin (DOX) 0.003g/1000g/ at 7TH day intraperitonealy, Co recieved Nigella sativa 1000mg/1000g everyday oral along with Doxorubicin 0.003g/1000g/ at 7TH day intraperitonealy and Do recieved Nigella sativa 1000mg/kg everyday oral. At the end of experiment, rats were dissected and conserved slides for staining.

Results: Bo showed loss of normal architecture of seminiferous tubules and diverse level of atrophy while condition was improved in Co which were given Doxorubicin with extract of Nigella sativa.

Conclusion: Our result tells us that Nigella sativa amended the histomorphological changes.
Study of Discharge Outlines of Subthalamic Nucleus-Globus Pallidus External and the Favorable Impact of Deep Brain Stimulation in the Parkinson State
Authors: Gupta Shruti , Singh Jyotsna , Kumar Kaushal
Published: February 2022

Aims: The aim of our model is to simulate deep brain stimulation mathematically instead of doing it experimentally to check whether the outlines in Parkinson’s disease helps in reducing the motor symptoms or not. The model is simulated here mathematically because clinical research is not feasible. My model is STN-GPe in which there are different differential equations. Also, to prove that the symptoms for Parkinson’s disease are reduced up to 99.59%.

Study Design: Cross-correlation function.

Place and duration of Study: Study was conducted in private college of Gurugram from January 2021 to September 2021.

Methodology: Self designed, the conduct of the model has been accessible with the support of activity outlines produced in a normal state and Parkinson's state. These outlines have been related by finding out their correlation coefficient for dissimilar values of essential parameters. Here, a single-compartment conductance-based model is taken that concentrates on the subthalamic nucleus and synaptic input from globus pallidus (external). Current model displays extremely nonlinear behavior regarding many essential parameters.

Results: Outcomes show that the activity outlines are extremely penetrating to several essential parameters. Deep brain stimulation is measured as a harmless and well-borne surgical technique to lighten Parkinson’s disease and extra movement ailments indications across some psychiatric situations. So, the deep brain stimulation technique has been applied here mathematically to find the cross-correlation between the two states. With the help of this stimulation, some promising results are obtained.

Conclusion: The conclusion is that DBS is operative at reducing motor indications of parkinsonism by 99.59%.
Formulation and in vitro Evaluation of Diacerein Loaded Transferosomal Topical Gel for the Effective Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Pola Kranthi Kumar , Kumar Rada Santosh
Published: February 2022

Aim: The main objective of the current research work was to formulate and evaluate Diacerein-loaded transferosomal topical gel to overcome the drawbacks associated with oral administration of Diacerein in Osteo arthritis treatment.

Study Design: Transferosomal topical gel

Methodology: Transferosomes were developed using different ratios of Phospholipid® 90G as phospholipid and Span-60 as surfactant and cholesterol as fluidity buffer. The selected best formulation of transferosomes was further optimized as a topical gel using different rate controlling polymers such as hydroxylethyl cellulose (HEC), hydroxyl propyl methylcellulose (HPMC) and, carbopol. Transcutol P was used as a penetration enhancer. In vitro diffusion studies of developed formulations were carried out using Franz diffusion cell apparatus.

Results: The formulations prepared with Hydroxy ethyl cellulose (TBG1, TBG2, TBG3), HPMC (TBG4, TBG5, TBG6) was shown rapid drug release when compared to formulations prepared with carbopol (TBG7, TBG8, TBG9) are showing controlled drug release.Where the formulation prepared with carbopol with 0.75% concentration has shown acceptable extended drug release for 12 hours with acceptable other physico-chemical properties.

Conclusion: It can be concluded that Diacerein-loaded transferosomal gel can be administered topically for the treatment of osteoarthritis with reduced oral side effects.
Stratification of follicular thyroid tumours using data‐independent acquisition proteomics and a comprehensive thyroid tissue spectral library
Authors: Sun Yaoting , Li Lu , Zhou Yan , Ge Weigang , Wang He , Wu Runxin , Liu Wei , Chen Hao , Xiao Qi , Cai Xue , Dong Zhen , Zhang Fangfei , Xiao Junhong , Wang Guangzhi , He Yi , Gao Jinlong , Kon Oi Lian , Iyer Narayanan Gopalakrishna , Guan Haixia , Teng Xiaodong , Zhu Yi , Zhao Yongfu , Guo Tiannan
Published: February 2022

Thyroid nodules occur in about 60% of the population. A major challenge in thyroid nodule diagnosis is to distinguish between follicular adenoma (FA) and carcinoma (FTC). Here, we present a comprehensive thyroid spectral library covering five types of thyroid tissues. This library includes 121 960 peptides and 9941 protein groups. This spectral library can be used to quantify up to 7863 proteins from thyroid tissues, and can also be used to develop parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) assays for targeted protein quantification. Next, to stratify follicular thyroid tumours, we compared the proteomes of 24 FA and 22 FTC samples, and identified 204 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs). Our data suggest altered ferroptosis pathways in malignant follicular carcinoma. In all, 31 selected proteins effectively distinguished follicular tumours. Of those DEPs, nine proteins were further verified by PRM in an independent cohort of 18 FA and 19 FTC. Together, we present a comprehensive spectral library for DIA and targeted proteomics analysis of thyroid tissue specimens, and identified nine proteins that could potentially distinguish FA and FTC.
Electron‐Deficient Sites for Improving V2+/V3+ Redox Kinetics in Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Huang Rongjiao , Liu Suqin , He Zhen , Zhu Weiwei , Ye Guanying , Su Yuke , Deng Weiwen , Wang Jue
Published: February 2022

Fundamental kinetics of the V2+/V3+ of vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) are still not well understood despite tremendous efforts in improving the sluggish kinetics of V2+/V3+. This article first reveals the rate‐determining step in the electrochemical oxidation of V2+ to V3+ by exploring the reaction kinetics. Thereafter, TiB2 with abundant electron‐deficient sites, which possesses a strong electron‐accepting ability, is demonstrated to improve the rate‐determining step of V2+/V3+ by enhancing the electron transfer from V2+ to the electrode. The mechanism of TiB2 for boosting V2+/V3+ kinetics is also unraveled by analyzing the reaction order. VRFB with the electron‐deficient TiB2 demonstrates a remarkable enhancement in the electrochemical performance, exhibiting an excellent rate performance from 70 to 300 mA cm−2. The energy efficiency is improved by 14.06% compared to the cell with the pristine electrode at 150 mA cm−2 for 300 cycles. This study is critical for not only proposing the promising electron‐deficient catalyst in VRFB application but also promoting fundamental understanding and offering a design strategy for achieving superior performance electrocatalysts in VRFB.
Digital Light Processing of Dynamic Bottlebrush Materials
Authors: Choi Chungryong , Okayama Yoichi , Morris Parker T. , Robinson Lindsay L. , Gerst Matthias , Speros Joshua C. , Hawker Craig J. , Read de Alaniz Javier , Bates Christopher M.
Published: February 2022

Bottlebrush elastomers have attracted significant attention as a class of super‐soft materials with a storage modulus (G′) less than the intrinsic entanglement shear modulus (Ge), but current processing strategies have been limited to molding or extrusion‐based 3D printing. Here, the ability to 3D print bottlebrush elastomers via digital light processing (DLP) is demonstrated through the design of novel resin components and building blocks. In particular, mono‐telechelic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) macromonomers with a 1,2‐dithiolane end group derived from α‐lipoic acid (LA) undergo fast and efficient copolymerization with PEG diacrylates under light (≤405 nm) in the presence of a photoinitiator to generate crosslinked bottlebrush networks containing dynamic disulfide backbones. This allows objects that are both super‐soft and solvent‐free to be printed with a commercial DLP printer. The resulting materials undergo dynamic disulfide exchange when exposed to ultraviolet light (365 nm) or elevated temperatures, facilitating reprocessing and postfabrication healing. These results establish a simple design strategy for the preparation of DLP resins based on natural building blocks (α‐lipoic acid), leading to materials with unique properties that broaden the utility of light‐based 3D printing with user‐friendly chemistry.
Reconfigurable Quasi‐Nonvolatile Memory/Subthermionic FET Functions in Ferroelectric–2D Semiconductor vdW Architectures
Authors: Wang Zhongwang , Liu Xiaochi , Zhou Xuefan , Yuan Yahua , Zhou Kechao , Zhang Dou , Luo Hang , Sun Jian
Published: February 2022

The functional reconfiguration of transistors and memory in homogenous ferroelectric devices offers significant opportunities for implementing the concepts of in‐memory computing and logic‐memory monolithic integration. Thus far, reconfiguration is realized through programmable doping profiles in the semiconductor channel using multiple‐gate operation. This complex device architecture limits further scaling to match the overall chip requirements. Here, reconfigurable memory/transistor functionalities in a ferroelectric‐gated van der Waals transistor by controlling the behavior of ferroelectric oxygen vacancies at the interface are demonstrated. Short‐ and long‐term memory functions are demonstrated by modulating the border oxygen vacancy distribution and the associated charge dynamics. The quasi‐nonvolatile long‐term memory exhibits data retention of over 105 s and endurance of up to 5 × 105 cycles, verifying its applicability as a potential device platform for neuromorphic networks. More importantly, by modulating the ferroelectricity of the interfacial domains with the interactions of oxygen vacancies, a hysteresis‐free logic transistor is realized with a subthermionic subthreshold swing down to 46 mV dec−1, which resembles a negative‐capacitance field‐effect transistor. The new concept of achieving functional reconfiguration with prior device performance in a single‐gate ferroelectric field‐effect transistor is of great advantage in future integrated circuit applications.
Universal Solution Synthesis of Sulfide Solid Electrolytes Using Alkahest for All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Lee Ji Eun , Park Kern‐Ho , Kim Jin Chul , Wi Tae‐Ung , Ha A. Reum , Song Yong Bae , Oh Dae Yang , Woo Jehoon , Kweon Seong Hyeon , Yeom Su Jeong , Cho Woosuk , Kim KyungSu , Lee Hyun‐Wook , Kwak Sang Kyu , Jung Yoon Seok
Published: February 2022

The wet‐chemical processability of sulfide solid electrolytes (SEs) provides intriguing opportunities for all‐solid‐state batteries. Thus far, sulfide SEs are wet‐prepared either from solid precursors suspended in solvents (suspension synthesis) or from homogeneous solutions using SEs (solution process) with restricted composition spaces. Here, a universal solution synthesis method for preparing sulfide SEs from precursors, not only Li2S, P2S5, LiCl, and Na2S, but also metal sulfides (e.g., GeS2 and SnS2), fully dissolved in an alkahest: a mixture solvent of 1,2‐ethylenediamine (EDA) and 1,2‐ethanedithiol (EDT) (or ethanethiol). Raman spectroscopy and theoretical calculations reveal that the exceptional dissolving power of EDA–EDT toward GeS2 is due to the nucleophilicity of the thiolate anions that is strong enough to dissociate the GeS bonds. Solution‐synthesized Li10GeP2S12, Li6PS5Cl, and Na11Sn2PS12 exhibit high ionic conductivities (0.74, 1.3, and 0.10 mS cm−1 at 30 °C, respectively), and their application for all‐solid‐state batteries is successfully demonstrated.
3D Pine‐Needle‐Like W18O49/TiO2 Heterostructures as Dual‐Band Electrochromic Materials with Ultrafast Response and Excellent Stability
Authors: Huang Ya , Wang Baoshun , Bai Xiaojuan , Han Ying , Zhang Wenshuo , Zhou Chenhui , Meng Haibing , Chen Fengxiang , Wu Xueke , Jiang Qinyuan , Li Run , Zhang Shiliang , Jia Xilai , Zhang Rufan
Published: February 2022

Dual‐band electrochromic (EC) smart windows, which can selectively modulate visible (VIS) and near‐infrared (NIR) light are widely regarded as one of the most attractive options to drastically reduce energy consumption in modern buildings. However, dual‐band EC smart windows still face many challenges such as weak modulation selectivity between VIS and NIR bands, low switching speed, poor durability, and high cost. Here, inspired by pine needles, a unique pine‐needle‐like (PNL) W18O49/TiO2 heterostructure is rationally constructed with W18O49 nanothorns (as branches) and TiO2 nanofibers (as backbones). The PNL‐W18O49/TiO2 heterostructures exhibit superior dual‐band EC performance in both VIS and NIR bands, which can block up to 81.4% of the VIS light at 633 nm and 91.3% of NIR at 1800 nm, and they also show extremely short bleaching/coloring time (0.9/1.2 s) and excellent stability (85% of capacity retention after 20 000 cycles) in a narrow potential window of −0.8 to 0.6 V. Besides, abundant patterned EC layers on a fluorine‐doped‐tin‐oxide‐coated conductive glass and flexible polyester conductive films can also be realized. This work provides an effective way for dual‐band EC materials’ design and their further development in smart windows and intelligent displays.
Template‐Assisted Self‐Assembly of Colloidal Silicon Nanoparticles for All‐Dielectric Nanoantenna
Authors: Negoro Hidemasa , Sugimoto Hiroshi , Hinamoto Tatsuki , Fujii Minoru
Published: February 2022

A solution‐based bottom‐up process to produce one‐ and two‐dimensional arrays of densely packed spherical nanoparticles (NPs) of crystalline silicon (Si), having the lowest order Mie resonance in the visible range, is developed. First, an agglomeration‐free solution of Si NPs with a narrow size distribution is prepared. By using grooves fabricated on the surface of a polymer as a template, arrays of Si NPs with different shapes are formed by a template‐assisted self‐assembly method, and then they are transferred to an arbitrary substrate. To demonstrate proper formation of Si NP arrays, polarization‐resolved scattering spectra are measured for different size linear arrays, i.e., a monomer to a pentamer, of Si NPs placed on a silica substrate. The observed spectra are well‐reproduced by the numerical simulations. When the polarization direction of incident light is parallel to the array axis, the scattering spectra are strongly modified from that of a Si NP monomer due to near‐field coupling of the electric dipole (ED) modes. In a Si NP tetramer, the peak of the ED mode overlaps with that of the magnetic dipole (MD) mode and strong forward scattering is observed at the MD peak wavelength due to the Kerker effect.
Deep Transfer Learning: A Fast and Accurate Tool to Predict the Energy Levels of Donor Molecules for Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Moore Gareth John , Bardagot Olivier , Banerji Natalie
Published: February 2022

Molecular engineering is driving the recent efficiency leaps in organic photovoltaics (OPVs). A presynthetic determination of frontier energy levels makes the screening of potential molecules more efficient, exhaustive, and cost‐effective. Here, a convolutional neural network is developed to predict the highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (HOMO/LUMO) levels of donor molecules for OPV. The model takes a 2D structure image and returns a prediction of its HOMO/LUMO levels comparable to experimental values. Insufficient experimental datasets are overcome with transfer learning where the model is initially trained on the large Harvard Clean Energy Project dataset and then fine‐tuned using experimental data from the Harvard Organic Photovoltaic dataset. Error margins on predicted HOMO/LUMO levels below 200 meV are achieved, without any chemical knowledge implemented. Noticeably, the model outputs have higher accuracy and precision than corresponding density functional theory (DFT) estimations. The model and its limitations are further tested on a home‐built dataset of commercially available donor polymers reported in OPVs (e.g., P3HT, PTB7‐Th, PM6, D18). The results demonstrate both the practical utility of this model, to foster rational molecular engineering for OPV optimization, and the potential for deep learning techniques, in general, to revolutionize the energy materials research and development sector.
Discovery and Application of Postnatal Nucleus Pulposus Progenitors Essential for Intervertebral Disc Homeostasis and Degeneration
Authors: Gao Bo , Jiang Bo , Xing Wenhui , Xie Zaiqi , Luo Zhuojing , Zou Weiguo
Published: February 2022

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) results from the dysfunction of nucleus pulposus (NP) cells and the exhaustion of NP progenitors (ProNPs). The cellular applications of NP cells during IDD are currently limited due to the lack of in vivo studies showing whether NP cells are heterogeneous and contain ProNPs throughout postnatal stages. In this study, single‐cell RNA sequencing of purified NP cells is used to map four molecularly defined populations and urotensin II receptor (UTS2R)‐expressing postnatal ProNPs is identified, which are markedly exhausted during IDD, in mouse and human specimens. The lineage tracing shows that UTS2R+ ProNPs preferentially resides in the NP periphery with its niche factor tenascin‐C and give rise to functional NP cells. It is also demonstrated that transplanting UTS2R+ ProNPs with tenascin‐C into injured intervertebral discs attenuate the progression of IDD. The study provides a novel NP cell atlas, identified resident ProNPs with regenerative potential, and revealed promising diagnostic and therapeutic targets for IDD.
Construction of Chiral Quaternary Carbon Stereocenters by Asymmetric Michael Addition of 4‐Amido‐5‐hydroxylpyrazoles to Ethylene Sulfonyl Fluoride
Authors: Chen Jie , Zhang Yue , Zhu Dong‐yu , Zhang Xue‐jing , Yan Ming
Published: February 2022

Construction of chiral quaternary carbon sterocenters especially spirocycles in complex organic molecules is one of the great synthetic challenges. Using a quinine‐derived squaramide catalyst, the enantioselective Michael addition of 4‐amido‐5‐hydroxypyrazoles to ethylene sulfonyl fluoride (ESF) was developed. This method provides a facile strategy to access a series of structurally diverse pyrazolone derivatives with excellent yields and enantioselectivities. The introduction of quaternary carbon stereocenters and sulfonyl fluoride group leads to the valuable candidates for the drug discovery. Furthermore, the products could be transferred to the spirocyclic derivatives under mild reaction conditions without any loss of the enantioselectivities.
Low Current‐Density Stable Zinc‐Metal Batteries Via Aqueous/Organic Hybrid Electrolyte
Authors: Chen Yue , Guo Shan , Qin Liping , Wan Qiangwei , Pan Yicai , Zhou Miao , Long Mengqiu , Fang Guozhao , Liang Shuquan
Published: February 2022

Zinc‐metal batteries (ZMBs) are promising for large‐scale energy storage devices due to their intrinsically safe, low‐cost and environmentally friendly nature. ZMBs with vanadium‐based cathodes have exhibited excellent performance, however, many side reactions due to the presence of innumerable water molecules in aqueous electrolyte hinder their commercialization. Herein, high‐proportioned polyethylene glycol was introduced as solvent to form an aqueous/organic hybrid electrolyte, which limits the activity of free water molecules and lowers the risk of side reactions, such as cathode dissolution, zinc dendrites and H2 evolution. As a result, a good reversible zinc plating/stripping over 3000 h for zinc anode and an excellent cycle stability with 96 % retention after 50 cycles at low current density of 0.1 A g−1 for vanadium‐based cathode were obtained, respectively. Importantly, to simulate the stability in actual application environment, a test mode at low current density under both continuous and intermittent electrochemical charge/discharge was conducted, which further demonstrated the superiority of this hybrid electrolyte. Finally, as a practical illustration, the pouch cells of 3 cm×3 cm exhibit a high capacity of 300 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 with a good retention of 81.7 % after 200 cycles, and even up to 500 cycles at 0.5 A g−1. This work is expected to provide new opportunities for high‐performance hybrid electrolyte for the practical ZMBs.
Electrical signalling in prokaryotes and its convergence with quorum sensing in Bacillus
Authors: Bavaharan Abhirame , Skilbeck Christopher
Published: February 2022

The importance of electrical signalling in bacteria is an emerging paradigm. Bacillus subtilis biofilms exhibit electrical communication that regulates metabolic activity and biofilm growth. Starving cells initiate oscillatory extracellular potassium signals that help even the distribution of nutrients within the biofilm and thus help regulate biofilm development. Quorum sensing also regulates biofilm growth and crucially there is convergence between electrical and quorum sensing signalling axes. This makes B. subtilis an interesting model for cell signalling research. SpoOF is predicted to act as a logic gate for signalling pathway convergence, raising interesting questions about the functional nature of this gate and the relative importance of these disparate signals on biofilm behaviour. How is an oscillating signal integrated with a quorum signal? The model presented offers rich opportunities for future experimental and theoretical modelling research. The importance of direct cell‐to‐cell electrical signalling in prokaryotes, so characteristic of multicellular eukaryotes, is also discussed.
A novel highly specific colorimetric fluorescent probe for the detection of nitrite in aqueous solution
Authors: Xu Jing , Shi Yanfeng , Xu Gongwei , Zhao Qinrui , Hui Li , Zhang Shuo , Zhu Baocun , Xu Zhenghe , Bian Zhen
Published: February 2022

Developing an effective method for the detection of nitrite (NO2−) ions in the natural environment especially in environmental waters and soils is very necessary, since they will cause serious damage to human health once excess NO2− ions enters the human body. Therefore, a new colorimetric fluorescent probe NB‐NO2− for determining NO2− ions was designed, which possesses good water‐solubility and satisfactory selectivity over other common ions for NO2− ions. The addition of NO2− ions changed the color of solution from blue to colorless seen by the naked‐eye. Furthermore, through test and calculation, the detection limit of the probe NB‐NO2− is 129 nM. Based on the earlier excellent characteristics, the probe NB‐NO2− was successfully used for monitoring NO2− ions in environmental waters and soils.
Evidence‐based lifestyle medicine interventions to enhance the mental health of law enforcers in Hong Kong: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chu Louise Wing‐ping , Lau Rebecca Wing‐man , Mak Ingrid Wing‐Fun
Published: February 2022

Law enforcers are stressed, but they may be reluctant to seek psychological support due to the stigmatization of mental illness in the law enforcement culture. Given the relatively stigma‐free lifestyle medicine intervention, a two‐arm pilot randomized controlled trial was conducted in the Hong Kong police force to examine the efficacy of integrated lifestyle medicine practices in enhancing the mental health of law enforcers. A total of 18 participants were randomly assigned to the intervention and waitlist control groups. The intervention group attended a 6‐week lifestyle medicine program consisting of five lifestyle factors. On analyzing the results of the Patient Health Questionnaire using a paired sample t‐test, a statistically significant intervention effect was found. This implies that participants had significantly better general psychological well‐being after the intervention in this pilot study. In conclusion, the present findings provide preliminary support to promote the relatively stigma‐free lifestyle medicine interventions in law enforcement. Nevertheless, further research effort with a larger sample size is warranted to provide empirical support for the efficacy of integrated lifestyle medicine programme.
Road‐testing child protection typologies: A case study in Lebanon
Authors: El‐Hoss Thomas , Brown Louise
Published: February 2022

Over the past three decades a small number of influential writers have bravely attempted to develop theoretical models for understanding and comparing the complex development of child protection systems across different countries. The foremost frameworks have compared the dynamics of child protection arrangements in high‐income countries, with little attention being given to middle‐ and low‐income countries and, more specifically, the MENA region. This paper presents Lebanon's child protection model and highlights factors that have led to its unique development in the last 20 years. It contends that Lebanon's child protection system is pluralistic in nature, with responsibilities for the ultimate safety and wellbeing of children diffused among a variety of stakeholders. As a relatively new domain of practice for the state, the protection of children in Lebanon has become implicated in the ever‐present national debates regarding the correct balance of authority between state, religion and citizen. A parallel system of decision‐making exists with a state‐run system struggling to find its place alongside customary religious courts unlikely to relinquish their power over family affairs. Through an examination of Lebanon, the paper aims to further road test the most recent typology and address its applicability to one Middle East country.
Two Olean‐27‐carboxylic Acid‐Type Triterpenoids as Chemical Markers Isolated from Saxifraga umbellulata
Authors: Jiang Wei , Wu Ren , Ren Gang , Qiu Yongwei , Du Xiaolang , Mu Zejing , Tan Ting , Li Shanshan , Li Bo , Li Wanzhi , Hu Yaxin , Zhang Qi , Wei Rongrui , Zhong Guoyue
Published: February 2022

Two olean‐27‐carboxylic acid‐type triterpenoids (1 and 2) were isolated from Saxifraga umbellulata (Saxifragaceae), representing the first case in the chemical discoveries of genus Saxifraga. Compound 1 was determined to be a new compound named ‘Saxifragic acid’ based on the comprehensive spectroscopic and X‐ray crystallographic analyses. Compound 2 (deacetylated saxifragic acid) is a known compound reported before, but its absolute configuration through X‐ray crystallographic analyses was first described here. In addition, their cytotoxicity against five digestive human cancer cell lines (BGC‐823, GBC‐SD, CCC‐9810, HT‐29, and HepG2) and hepatoprotective activity against CCl4‐induced L‐o2 cell injury in vitro were evaluated. Interestingly, UPLC‐QTOFMS analysis showed that these two compounds could be used as chemical markers to discriminate between S. umbellulata and S. tangutica, both of which are used for the treatment of hepatobiliary diseases in traditional Tibetan medicine.
Acremocholone, an Anti‐Vibrio Steroid from the Marine Mesophotic Zone Ciocalypta Sponge‐Associated Fungus Acremonium sp. NBUF150
Authors: Feng Yun‐Ping , Wang Hong‐Kun , Wu Jia‐Ling , Shao Peng , Zhou Wen‐Li , Lai Qi‐Liang , Lin Hou‐Wen , Naman C. Benjamin , Wang Ting‐Ting , He Shan
Published: February 2022

Mesophotic coral ecosystems (MCEs) represent an underexplored source of intriguing natural products. Efforts to discover bioactive metabolites from sponge‐associated fungi in MCEs identified a new steroid, acremocholone (1) and its three known analogs (2–4), from Acremonium sp. NBUF150. The Acremonium sp. NBUF150 was isolated from a Ciocalypta sponge located 70 m deep within the South China Sea. The planar structures and absolute configuration of 1–4 were determined from NMR‐derived spectroscopic data, HR‐ESI‐MS, and X‐ray crystallography. Compound 1 exhibited antimicrobial inhibition against Vibrio scophthalmi, V. shilonii and V. brasiliensis at minimum inhibitory concentrations of 8 μg/mL; compound 2 inhibited V. shilonii and V. brasiliensis at 8 and 32 μg/mL, respectively, and compound 4 inhibited growth of V. brasiliensis at 16 μg/mL. Sponge associated fungi from MCEs represent a promising resource of anti‐Vibrio drug leads for aquaculture use.
Challenges and outcomes of the double kissing crush stenting technique: Insights from the PROGRESS‐BIFURCATION registry
Authors: Simsek Bahadir , Kostantinis Spyridon , Karacsonyi Judit , Vemmou Evangelia , Nikolakopoulos Ilias , Assali Maen , Burke M. Nicholas , Garcia Santiago , Wang Yale , Chavez Ivan , Goessl Mario , Sorajja Paul , Mooney Michael , Poulose Anil , Traverse Jay , Rangan Bavana V. , Brilakis Emmanouil S.
Published: February 2022

Background

Although the double kissing (DK) crush stenting technique can provide excellent outcomes in percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of bifurcation lesions, it can be challenging to perform.

Methods

We examined the clinical and angiographic characteristics, challenges encountered, and procedural outcomes of bifurcation PCI with DK crush in Prospective Global Registry of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Bifurcation Lesions (PROGRESS‐BIFURCATION, NCT05100992).

Results

DK crush was used in 48 of 435 bifurcation lesions (11%). Technical success was 100%, procedural success was 96%, and the incidence of in‐hospital major adverse cardiovascular events was 4%. Challenges while performing DK crush were encountered in 26 lesions (54%): (1) difficulty in side branch (SB) first rewiring (38%) that was overcome with the use of a new guidewire (30%) or a microcatheter (15%); (2) inability to deliver balloon to an SB for the first kiss (54%) that was overcome with the use of a smaller balloon (86%), rewiring (29%), microcatheter (14%), and increased support 7%; (3) difficulty in SB second rewiring (19%) that was overcome with the use of a new guidewire (80%) and/or microcatheter (60%). DK crush was more often performed in left main and proximal left anterior descending artery lesions (70% vs. 50%, p = 0.014). DK crush cases required more contrast (198 ± 84 ml vs. 163 ± 70 ml, p = 0.003), fluoroscopy time (35 ± 20 min vs. 25 ± 21 min, p = 0.004), and lasted longer (137 ± 69 min vs. 99 ± 66 min, p = 0.001) compared with non‐DK crush techniques.

Conclusions

While challenges are common when performing DK crush bifurcation stenting, success rates are high and complication rates are low.
The Role of Singlet Oxygen, Superoxide, Hydroxide, and Hydrogen Peroxide in the Photoelectrochemical Response of Phenols at a Supported Highly Fluorinated Zinc Phthalocyanine
Authors: Neven Liselotte , Barich Hanan , Pelmuş Marius , Gorun Sergiu M. , De Wael Karolien
Published: February 2022

Photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensing of phenolic compounds using singlet oxygen (1O2)‐generating photocatalysts has emerged as a powerful detection tool. However, it is currently not known how experimental parameters, such as pH and applied potential, influence the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and their photocurrents. In this article, the PEC response was studied over the 6 to 10 pH range using a rotating (ring) disk (R(R)DE) set‐up in combination with quenchers, to identify the ROS formed upon illumination of a supported photosensitizer, F64PcZn. The photocurrents magnitude depended on the applied potential and the pH of the buffer solution. The anodic responses were caused by the oxidation of O2.−, generated due to the quenching of 1O2 with −OH and the reaction of 3O2 with [F64Pc(3‐)Zn]. The cathodic responses were assigned to the reduction of 1O2 and O2.−, yielding H2O2. These insights may benefit 1O2 – based PEC sensing applications.
Fast Reaction Limit with Nonmonotone Reaction Function
Authors: Perthame Benoît , Skrzeczkowski Jakub
Published: February 2022

We analyse the fast reaction limit in the reaction‐diffusion system with nonmonotone reaction function and one nondiffusing component. As speed of reaction tends to infinity, the concentration of the nondiffusing component exhibits fast oscillations. We identify precisely its Young measure which, as a by‐product, proves strong convergence of the diffusing component, a result that is not obvious from a priori estimates. Our work is based on an analysis of regularization for forward‐backward parabolic equations by Plotnikov. We rewrite his ideas in terms of kinetic functions which clarifies the method, brings new insights, relaxes assumptions on model functions, and provides a weak formulation for the evolution of the Young measure. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Cellular Microbiaxial Stretching Assay for Measurement and Characterization of the Anisotropic Mechanical Properties of Micropatterned Cells
Authors: Rothermel Taylor M. , Cook Bernard L. , Alford Patrick W.
Published: February 2022

Characterizing the mechanical properties of single cells is important for developing descriptive models of tissue mechanics and improving the understanding of mechanically driven cell processes. Standard methods for measuring single‐cell mechanical properties typically provide isotropic mechanical descriptions. However, many cells exhibit specialized geometries in vivo, with anisotropic cytoskeletal architectures reflective of their function, and are exposed to dynamic multiaxial loads, raising the need for more complete descriptions of their anisotropic mechanical properties under complex deformations. Here, we describe the cellular microbiaxial stretching (CμBS) assay in which controlled deformations are applied to micropatterned cells while simultaneously measuring cell stress. CμBS utilizes a set of linear actuators to apply tensile or compressive, short‐ or long‐term deformations to cells micropatterned on a fluorescent bead‐doped polyacrylamide gel. Using traction force microscopy principles and the known geometry of the cell and the mechanical properties of the underlying gel, we calculate the stress within the cell to formulate stress‐strain curves that can be further used to create mechanical descriptions of the cells, such as strain energy density functions. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Assembly of CμBS stretching constructs

Basic Protocol 2: Polymerization of micropatterned, bead‐doped polyacrylamide gel on an elastomer membrane

Support Protocol: Cell culture and seeding onto CμBS constructs

Basic Protocol 3: Implementing CμBS stretching protocols and traction force microscopy

Basic Protocol 4: Data analysis and cell stress measurements
SOLPS‐ITER EU‐DEMO modelling with drifts and kinetic neutrals
Authors: Vekshina Elena , Korzueva Veronika , Rozhansky Vladimir , Senichenkov Ilya , Kaveeva Elizaveta , Veselova Irina , Coster David , Subba Fabio
Published: February 2022

The edge transport modelling of EU‐DEMO burning plasma is performed by SOLPS‐ITER transport code with kinetic neutrals and full drifts and currents switched on. The efficiency of Ar and Ne as a divertor radiant is compared for such a condition. It is found from simulations that both Ar and Ne are suitable to reduce the target heat loads below , and to achieve similar profiles at the OMP and along targets, however, Ne seeding rate should be 4.5 times bigger than that of Ar. Analysis of impurity transport results in that Ar is better compressed in divertor than Ne. With both radiants up to 70% of power flux to the computational domain is irradiated, core does not exceed 2.5, core radiation is negligible (less than 8.5% of income power), neutral deuterium pressure in the private flux region is 20 Pa. However, the electron temperature along targets does not reduce below 15 eV in the far scrape‐off layer, which may cause high level of tungsten sputtering.
Blood metabolites predicting mild cognitive impairment in the study of Latinos‐investigation of neurocognitive aging (HCHS/SOL)
Authors: He Shan , Granot‐Hershkovitz Einat , Zhang Ying , Bressler Jan , Tarraf Wassim , Yu Bing , Huang Tianyi , Zeng Donglin , Wassertheil‐Smoller Sylvia , Lamar Melissa , Daviglus Martha , Marquine Maria J. , Cai Jianwen , Mosley Thomas , Kaplan Robert , Boerwinkle Eric , Fornage Myriam , DeCarli Charles , Kristal Bruce , Gonzalez Hector M. , Sofer Tamar
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Blood metabolomics‐based biomarkers may be useful to predict measures of neurocognitive aging.

Methods

We tested the association between 707 blood metabolites measured in 1451 participants from the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos (HCHS/SOL), with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and global cognitive change assessed 7 years later. We further used Lasso penalized regression to construct a metabolomics risk score (MRS) that predicts MCI, potentially identifying a different set of metabolites than those discovered in individual‐metabolite analysis.

Results

We identified 20 metabolites predicting prevalent MCI and/or global cognitive change. Six of them were novel and 14 were previously reported as associated with neurocognitive aging outcomes. The MCI MRS comprised 61 metabolites and improved prediction accuracy from 84% (minimally adjusted model) to 89% in the entire dataset and from 75% to 87% among apolipoprotein E ε4 carriers.

Discussion

Blood metabolites may serve as biomarkers identifying individuals at risk for MCI among US Hispanics/Latinos.
A case for beta regression in the natural sciences
Authors: Geissinger Emilie A. , Khoo Celyn L. L. , Richmond Isabella C. , Faulkner Sally J. M. , Schneider David C.
Published: February 2022

Data in the natural sciences are often in the form of percentages or proportions that are continuous and bounded by 0 and 1. Statistical analysis assuming a normal error structure can produce biased and incorrect estimates when data are doubly bounded. Beta regression uses an error structure appropriate for such data. We conducted a literature review of percent and proportion data from 2004 to 2020 to determine the types of analyses used for (0, 1) bounded data. Our literature review showed that before 2012, angular transformations accounted for 93% of analyses of proportion or percent data. After 2012, angular transformation accounted for 52% of analyses and beta regression accounted for 14% of analyses. We compared a linear model with angular transformation with beta regression using data from two fields of the natural sciences that produce continuous, bounded data: biogeochemistry and ecological elemental composition. We found little difference in model diagnostics, likelihood ratios, andp‐values between the two models. However, we found substantially different coefficient estimates from the back‐calculated beta regression and angular transformation models. Beta regression provides reliable parameter estimates in natural science studies where effect sizes are considered as important as hypothesis testing.
A Practical Guide for Using Electrochemical Dilatometry as Operando Tool in Battery and Supercapacitor Research
Authors: Escher Ines , Hahn Matthias , A. Ferrero Guillermo , Adelhelm Philipp
Published: February 2022

Lithium‐ion batteries and related battery concepts show an expansion and shrinkage (“breathing”) of the electrodes during cell cycling. The dimensional changes of an individual electrode or a complete cell can be continuously measured by electrochemical dilatometry (ECD). The obtained data provides information on the electrode/cell reaction itself but can be also used to study side reactions or other relevant aspects, e.g., how the breathing is influenced by the electrode binder and porosity. The method spans over a wide measurement range and allows the determination of macroscopic as well as nanoscopic changes. It has also been applied to supercapacitors. The method has been developed already in the 1970s but recent advancements and the availability of commercial setups have led to an increasing interest in ECD. At the same time, there is no “best practice” on how to evaluate the data and several pitfalls exist that can complicate the comparison of literature data. This review highlights the recent development and future trends of ECD and its use in battery and supercapacitor research. A practical guide on how to evaluate the data is provided along with a discussion on various factors that influence the measurement results.
Eliciting risk preferences that predict risky health behavior: A comparison of two approaches
Authors: Yang Murong , Roope Laurence S. J. , Buchanan James , Attema Arthur E. , Clarke Philip M. , Walker A. Sarah , Wordsworth Sarah
Published: February 2022

Information on attitudes to risk could increase understanding of and explain risky health behaviors. We investigate two approaches to eliciting risk preferences in the health domain, a novel “indirect” lottery elicitation approach with health states as outcomes and a “direct” approach where respondents are asked directly about their willingness to take risks. We compare the ability of the two approaches to predict health‐related risky behaviors in a general adult population. We also investigate a potential framing effect in the indirect lottery elicitation approach. We find that risk preferences elicited using the direct approach can better predict health‐related risky behavior than those elicited using the indirect approach. Moreover, a seemingly innocuous change to the framing of the lottery question results in significantly different risk preference estimates, and conflicting conclusions about the ability of the indicators to predict risky health behaviors.
Towards a national strategy for the provision of spiritual care during major health disasters: A qualitative study
Authors: Papadopoulos Irena , Lazzarino Runa , Koulouglioti Christina , Ali Sheila , Wright Steve
Published: February 2022

Background

Spirituality is beneficial to health. Evidence around the benefits of Spiritual care (SC) is advancing, and training is becoming part of healthcare professional development. As the COVID‐19 crisis showed, during major health disasters (MHDs), the demand for SC grows exponentially, while the burden of care and focus on preserving life often hamper its provision. Nonetheless, existing health emergency strategic frameworks lack preparedness for the provision of SC.

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify the components for a National Strategy (NS) for the provision of SC during MHDs.

Methods

Descriptive, cross‐sectional, qualitative phenomenological design based on individual, semi‐structured e‐interviews with nursing managers and National Health Service/volunteer chaplains based in England. Thematic analysis of 25 e‐interview data was performed based on a dialogic collaborative process.

Results and Discussion

Eleven themes were identified as components of the proposed NS. From these components, specific recommendations for practical actions are provided. An integrated framework approach and smart investments in resources, staff training and technologies should be led by the paradigm of culturally competent and compassionate care.

Conclusion

The need to have strategic frameworks, both national and local, that better equip a country healthcare sector to prevent, face, and recover from MHDs is paramount. Catering for the spiritual needs of the affected population should be a key aspect of any health emergency strategy to ensure the preservation of quality care.
Idiographic patient reported outcome measures (I‐PROMs) for routine outcome monitoring in psychological therapies: Position paper
Authors: Sales Célia M. D. , Ashworth Mark , Ayis Salma , Barkham Michael , Edbrooke‐Childs Julian , Faísca Luís , Jacob Jenna , Xu Dan , Cooper Mick
Published: February 2022

Idiographic patient‐reported outcome measures (I‐PROMs) are a growing set of individualized tools for use in routine outcome monitoring (ROM) in psychological therapies. This paper presents a position statement on their conceptualization, use, and analysis, based on contemporary evidence and clinical practice. Four problem‐based, and seven goal‐based, I‐PROMs, with some evidence of psychometric evaluation and use in psychotherapy, were identified. I‐PROMs may be particularly valuable to the evaluation of psychological therapies because of their clinical utility and their alignment with a patient‐centered approach. However, there are several challenges for I‐PROMs: how to generate items in a robust manner, their measurement model, methods for establishing their reliability and validity, and the meaning of an aggregated I‐PROM score. Based on the current state of the literature, we recommend that I‐PROMs are used to complement nomothetic measures. Research recommendations are also made regarding the most appropriate methods for analyzing I‐PROM data.
Effect of rare earth element Y(III) on short‐term denitrification performance of anaerobic ammonia oxidized granular sludge
Authors: Wan Kai , Yu Ye , Xiao Chunqiao , Hu Jinggang , Liu Xuemei , Deng Xiangyi , Chi Ruan
Published: February 2022

BACKGROUND

The ammonia‐nitrogen wastewater generated during rare‐earth mining poses a serious hazard to the environment around the mine. This type of wastewater is difficult to treat using conventional biological methods due to its low carbon‐to‐nitrogen ratio. Anaerobic ammonia oxidation (anammox) has become the first choice for treating rare earth mine wastewater. However, the effect of rare earth elements (REEs) in wastewater on anammox bacteria has been insufficiently studied, and this limits the application of this process. Yttrium is a rare earth element present in wastewater, and the study of its effect on anammox can help in the application of this process in rare earth mine wastewater.

RESULTS

The effect of Y(III) on anammox granular sludge was studied using batch experiments. Anammox activity decreased with increasing Y(III) concentration, from 64.78 ± 0.28 to 17.15 ± 2.70 mg g−1 VSS day−1. The semi‐inhibitory concentration (IC50) of Y(III) for anammox activity was 30.36 mg L−1. Y (III) exhibited low promotion and high inhibition of anammox bacterial extracellular polymer secretion (EPS). Comparing the kinetic models, the Loung model is better suited for describing the kinetic equation of substrate concentration on anammox.

CONCLUSION

The acute toxicity of Y(III) to anaerobic sludge is influenced by the substrate and Y (III) concentrations. EPS‐based defence strategies play an important role in counteracting the toxicity of Y(III). The Edwards model fits the experimental data well and is suitable for predicting the inhibition of anammox activity by the substrate concentration. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).