bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring Chinese Students’ Learning Experiences in a Private Higher Education Institution in the Philippines towards a Proposed Global Engagement Initiative Program
Authors: Peng Shao
Published: January 2025

n response to the growing number of foreign students in the Philippines, Philippine higher education institutions have begun offering competitive programs to establish a global presence and foster internationalization. This study explored the educational experiences of Chinese graduate students at St. Paul University Manila. Through a qualitative research approach, the study explored Chinese students’ motivation for participating in an international program in a private higher education institution, expectations and their significant learning experiences as an international student, goal achievements in the international program, and their advice and recommendations for future international higher education students. Using a phenomenological research method incorporating open-ended questionnaires, the study analyzed narratives and reflections from the participants to understand their academic, cultural, and personal adaptation processes. The findings underscore key motivators, including career advancement, cultural exchange, and the institution's reputation. Themes reveal that students highly value the quality of education, multicultural interactions, and the opportunity to improve their English communication skills. These findings served as a basis for proposing a “Global Engagement Initiative” Program to enrich international students' experiences through tailored support services and intercultural programs. This initiative is envisioned to address students’ academic needs and foster their integration and satisfaction, enhancing St. Paul University’s and other private universities’ global appeal and support for international education.
Unlocking Math Success: Effect of an Intervention Program on Fifth Graders
Authors: Leonano Adora , Jhacell De Rosas , Reyes Jocelyn
Published: January 2025

Mathematics education aims to enhance students' computational skills and problem-solving abilities, as outlined in the numeracy curriculum. However, addressing the diverse needs of learners, particularly in terms of numerical skills, remains a challenge for many schools and educators. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mathematics Intervention Program (MIP) designed to reduce low performance among fifth graders. The study employed a quasi-experimental research design with 93 participants from Calamba Elementary School, focusing on the significant portion of students—75.3%—who were identified as low achievers based on result of the second periodical test. Pre-tests and post-tests were utilized to collect data, which were analyzed using statistical tools such as frequency distribution, percentage, mean, Mean Percentage Score (MPS), standard deviation, and the t-test. Results indicated a significant improvement in students' mathematical performance after the intervention. The findings provide strong evidence that the MIP, which incorporates the Concrete Pictorial Abstract (CPA) approach and explicit instruction, is effective in enhancing mathematical proficiency and addressing foundational gaps in numeracy.
Prospects of Oil Spill Remediation in the Niger Delta, Nigeria: A Case Study of Bodo Creek
Authors: D. K. Nkeeh, , U. Korfii, , U. Ugada, , B. D. Vaah
Published: January 2025

Remediation of oil spill contaminated sites is very important in the actualization of the goals of the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (UNDER) project. Conventional and artisanal oil explorations have resulted in several oil spill incidence within the Niger Delta. The volume of spilled oil in Bodo Creek was estimated to be 103,000 - 311,000 barrels. Shoreline flushing and artificial mangrove revegetation are key aspects of the remediation process. This review was done to assess the effect of the oil spill remediation on the recovery of flora and fauna in Bodo Creek.  The data was mined from the literature on pre-spill, post-spill and post-remediation studies from the same study Stations in Bodo Creek. This review reported oil exploration and oil spills in the study area. The study reviewed oil spill remediation approaches as well as the highlights on the recovery trend of macroinvertebrate following oil spill remediation. Prospects of oil spill remediation including; oil degradation, improved economy, carbon sequestration and coastal protection are reported in this study. What is the correlation between oil spill remediation and the recovery of flora and fauna? We hypothesized that the remediation would result in faster recovery of macroinvertebrate. The study found that remediation results in faster recovery of macroinvertebrate. This paper concluded that further research is necessary in order to develop unique oil spill remediation approaches to serve as the template for oil spill remediation in other parts of the Niger Delta as proper oil spill remediation efforts are necessary to tackle the severe consequences of oil spills in the environment. There is a need for collaboration between the oil spill remediation agency and researchers. It is also important to publish findings from empirical studies on remediation.
Impact of Irrigation Regime and Organic Amendments on Soil Physical Properties, Nutrient Availability, and Productivity in Calcareous Soil
Authors: Sary Dalal H. , EL-Rahman Zeinab M. Abd , EL-Sedfy Osama F.
Published: January 2025

The scarcity of irrigation water in Egypt requires addressing severe water scarcity, such as deficit irrigation and using organic amendments to improve water use efficiency in agriculture. A field experiment was conducted at El-Nubaria Agricultural Research Station in the summer of 2022 for maize and the winter of 2022/2023 for wheat to study the impact of organic amendments and irrigation regime on calcareous soil properties and productivity. The experiment involved a split-plot design with three replicates, irrigation regime was placed in main plots (50% (I50), 75% (I75), and 100% (I100) of ETc) and organic amendments in subplots included five treatments: 1) 9.6 ton ha-1 (B1), 2) 14.4 ton ha-1 (B2) of biochar, 3) potassium humate at the rate of 1.5% (KH1), 4) 3% (KH2) and 5) compost (12 ton ha-1). The obtained results indicated that compost, followed by B2 (14.4 ton ha-1), achieved the highest soil organic matter value. Applied I100 had the highest soil available NPK and micronutrients, followed by I75. Organic amendments significantly affected the soil availability of N, P, K, Fe, Mn and Zn. The maximum potassium content in grains was achieved using I100, followed by I75. The influence of organic amendments on field capacity and available water took the descending order: B1> KH1> compost. Water use efficiency was negatively impacted by increasing the amount of applied irrigation water. Applying I100 resulted in a significant increment in wheat and maize grain yields, followed by I75. The influence of organic amendments on wheat grain yield took the descending order: compost > potassium humate > biochar, while the effect on maize grain yield took the descending order: potassium humate > compost > biochar.
Arresting Rancidity in Pearl Millet Flour through Halogen Air Frier Treatment
Authors: G M Vinay , Akbari S H , Modi R B , Srilatha P , R Prakasha
Published: January 2025

Background: Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum), a highly nutritious and climate-resilient cereal, is constrained in its utilization due to rapid rancidity and bitterness in its flour. These issues stem from lipid oxidation and the enzymatic activities of lipase and lipoxygenase, which significantly limit the shelf life and consumer acceptability of the flour.
Aim: This study examines the impact of halogen air frying treatment on the enzymatic activity and color characteristics of pearl millet flour.
Study Design: The study was carried out at College of Food Processing Technology and Bio Energy, Anand, in the year 2024.
Methodology: Pearl millet grains were subjected to halogen air fry treatment at temperatures ranging from 110°C to 150°C for durations of 1 to 4 minutes, with a bed thickness of 0.5 cm.
Findings: The results indicate a significant reduction in lipase activity in the treated samples compared to the control, with negligible levels observed at 150°C after 4 minutes. Additionally, lipoxygenase activity was found to be completely inactivated at temperatures of 140°C and 150°C for the same duration. Furthermore, the treated flour demonstrated increased redness and yellowness, highlighting alterations in color values attributable to the heat treatment. These findings suggest that halogen air frying serves as an effective pre-milling treatment for inactivating enzymes responsible for rancidity in pearl millet flour.
Conclusion: This intervention effectively tackles the issue of rancidity while simultaneously prolonging the shelf life of flour, thereby enhancing its overall quality and acceptability. The use of halogen air frying presents a promising and efficient strategy for improving the functional properties of pearl millet flour, facilitating its broader application in food-related industries.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency of Hydrodealkylation (HDA) Toluene for Benzene Production through Optimizing Utility Tool (Pinch Analysis)
Authors: Pardede Audrey Olivia Adlai , Itsnainie Izzah Nabila , Fazila Sanandha Azwa , Kamila Sinta
Published: January 2025

Benzene is one of the chemicals widely used in domestic and industrial products. There have been many extensive studies conducted on hydrodealkylation processes to produce benzene from toluene to achieve the optimum result. Aspen hysys V.11 used to simulate hydrodealkylation process. In this study, this work aims to optimize energy efficiency and manage the heat generated by the highly exothermic hydrodealkylation reaction by adjusting the utility type of the heater and cooler. The results of the analysis and calculations, the utility modifications in the heat exchanger network system have proven to have a positive impact on energy efficiency and overall performance. With high energy efficiency, the system is able to reduce reliance on auxiliary utilities while improving the sustainability of the production process. This approach is not only beneficial from an operational perspective but also contributes significantly to cost savings and reduced environmental impact, making it a very viable solution to implement. Copyright © 2024 by Authors, Published by Universitas Diponegoro and BCREC Publishing Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
An Appreciatiation Of Kambale Mbokani’s Poem ‘Esprit Ya Bien’
Authors: Germain Ass Betilombe Muvirwa
Published: January 2025

Cet article est centré sur l’appréciation du poème ‘Esprit Ya Bien’ sur base des paramètres ci-après : substance,
langue, figures de style, effets de strophe et vers attrayants. Les bons traits du poème qui fait l’objet du présent
article sont démontrés au lecteur afin qu’il s’y intéresse. En plus, il est prouvé dans cet article qu’il ne faudrait pas se limiter à l’appréciation d’un poème mais il faut aussi donner son point de vue.
Improved Corrosion and Long‐Term Immersion Behavior in 3.5 wt% NaCl Solution of Laser Powder Bed Fusion Produced Ti5Cu After Heat Treatment
Authors: Wang Xin , Qin Peng , Sun Hongqi , Zhang Lai-Chang
Published: June 2023

This work investigates the corrosion behavior and mechanism of laser powder bed fusion produced (LPBFed) Ti5Cu and its heat‐treated counterparts in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution. The results indicate that heat treatment can enhance the corrosion resistance of LPBFed Ti5Cu by generating Ti2Cu phase, and heat treatment at higher temperature enhances corrosion resistance by forming a stable oxide film with a lower electron diffusion rate. The existence of Ti2Cu phase in the heat‐treated sample acts as the microanode that decelerates the corrosion on α‐Ti phase (prior dissolution of Ti2Cu phase). The long‐term immersion test results also confirm that the Ti2Cu phase present in HT900 (at higher heat‐treatment temperature) provides a better protective effect against corrosion compared to the one in HT740 and as‐LPBFed samples. Compared with the heat‐treated counterparts, the worst corrosion resistance of the as‐LPBFed Ti5Cu is attributed to that the acidic environment (e.g., Cl−) increases the electron diffusion rate in the film/solution interface, which makes the thermodynamically unstable α'‐Ti phase be preferentially corroded.
Low‐Cost, Safe, and Ultra‐Long Cycle Life Zn–K Hybrid Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhan Jialu , Zhu Wei , Liu Yuansheng , Li Mengjie , Zhao Jiwei , Su Hai , Ding Jia , Sun Jie , Xu Yunhua
Published: June 2023

Zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are viewed as a promising energy storage system for large‐scale applications thanks to the low cost and wide accessibility of Zn‐based materials, the high theoretical capacity of Zn anode, and their high level of safety. However, the practical application of ZIBs is hindered by the rapid performance degradation. Herein, a Zn–K hybrid ion battery design is proposed using a high‐quality Prussian blue cathode and a nonflammable Zn–K hybrid ion electrolyte. The electrochemical process is divided into two parts, with K+ insertion/extraction occurring at the cathode side and Zn2+ plating/stripping occurring at the anode side, which avoids structure destruction caused by Zn2+ insertion in the cathode. The non‐flammable electrolyte not only ensures high safety but also effectively suppresses dendrite growth on the Zn anode. The hybrid cells demonstrate a high capacity of 151.0 mAh g−1, a high voltage of 1.74 V (vs Zn2+/Zn), and an ultra‐long cycle life of 15 000 cycles. Combining the nonflammable nature of the electrolyte, the abundance of raw materials, and good electrochemical performance, the Zn–K hybrid ion battery system promises a promising future for renewable energy storage applications.
TiO2‐Induced Conversion Reaction Eliminating Li2CO3 and Pores/Voids Inside Garnet Electrolyte for Lithium–Metal Batteries
Authors: Luo Piao , Zeng Binwen , Li Wei , Zheng Guangli , Su Kexin , Liang Lecheng , Song Huiyu , Du Li , Cui Zhiming
Published: June 2023

Garnet Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) is regarded as a promising solid electrolyte due to its high Li+ conductivity and excellent chemical stability, but suffers from grain boundary resistance and porous structure which restrict its practical applications in lithium–metal batteries. Herein, a novel and highly efficient TiO2‐induced conversion strategy is proposed to generate Li ion‐conductive Li0.5La0.5TiO3, which can simultaneously eliminate the pre‐existing pores/voids and contamination Li2CO3. The Li/LLZTO‐5TiO2/Li symmetric cell exhibits a high critical current density of 1.1 mA cm−2 at 25°C, and the long‐term lithium cycling stability of over 1500 h at 0.1 mA cm−2. More importantly, the excellent performance of LLZTO‐5TiO2 electrolyte is verified by LiCoO2/LiFePO4 coupled full cells. For example, The LiCoO2 coupled full cell exhibits a significant discharge rate capacity of 108 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, and a discharge capacity retention rate of 91.23% even after 150 cycles of charge and discharge. COMSOL Multiphysics and density functional theory calculation reveal that LLZTO‐5TiO2 electrolyte has a strong lithium affinity and uniform Li ions distribution, which can improve the cycle stability of Li–metal batteries by preventing dendrite growth.
Microfluidic Controllable Preparation of Iodine‐131‐Labeled Microspheres for Radioembolization Therapy of Liver Tumors
Authors: Jiang Qing‐Rong , Pu Xing‐Qun , Deng Chuan‐Fu , Wang Wei , Liu Zhuang , Xie Rui , Pan Da‐Wei , Zhang Wen‐Jie , Ju Xiao‐Jie , Chu Liang‐Yin
Published: June 2023

Transcatheter arterial radioembolization (TARE) is of great significance for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the existing radioembolic microspheres still have problems such as non‐degradability, non‐uniform size, and inability to directly monitor in vivo, which hinders the development of TARE. In this paper, a novel radioembolic agent, 131I‐labeled methacrylated gelatin microspheres (131I‐GMs), is prepared for the treatment of HCC. Water‐in‐oil (W/O) emulsion templates are prepared by a simple one‐step microfluidic method to obtain methacrylated gelatin microspheres (GMs) after UV irradiation. A series of GMs with uniform and controllable size is obtained by adjusting the flow rate of each fluid. Both air‐dried and freeze‐dried GMs can quickly restore their original shape and size, and still have good monodispersity, elasticity, and biocompatibility. The radiolabeling experiments show that 131I can efficiently bind to GMs by chloramine‐T method, and the obtained 131I‐GMs have good radioactive stability in vitro. The results of in vivo TARE treatment in rats show that 131I‐GMs can be well retained in the hepatic artery and have a good inhibitory effect on the progression of liver cancer, showing the potential for the treatment of HCC.
The Importance of Effective Ligand Concentration to Direct Epithelial Cell Polarity in Dynamic Hydrogels
Authors: Rijns Laura , Hagelaars Maria J. , van der Tol Joost J. B. , Loerakker Sandra , Bouten Carlijn V. C. , Dankers Patricia Y. W.
Published: June 2023

Epithelial cysts and organoids are multicellular hollow structures formed by correctly polarized epithelial cells. Important in steering these cysts from single cells is the dynamic regulation of extracellular matrix presented ligands, and matrix dynamics. Here, control over the effective ligand concentration is introduced, decoupled from bulk and local mechanical properties, in synthetic dynamic supramolecular hydrogels formed through noncovalent crosslinking of supramolecular fibers. Control over the effective ligand concentration is realized by 1) keeping the ligand concentration constant, but changing the concentration of nonfunctionalized molecules or by 2) varying the ligand concentration, while keeping the concentration of non‐functionalized molecules constant. The results show that in 2D, the effective ligand concentration within the supramolecular fibers rather than gel stiffness (from 0.1 to 8 kPa) regulates epithelial polarity. In 3D, increasing the effective ligand concentration from 0.5 × 10−3 to 2 × 10−3 m strengthens the effect of increased gel stiffness from 0.1 to 2 kPa, to synergistically yield more correctly polarized cysts. Through integrin manipulation, it is shown that epithelial polarity is regulated by tension‐based homeostasis between cells and matrix. The results reveal the effective ligand concentration as influential factor in regulating epithelial polarity and provide insights on engineering of synthetic biomaterials for cell and organoid culture.
Robust Sub‐5 Nanometer bis(Diarylcarbene)‐Based Thin Film for Molecular Electronics and Plasmonics
Authors: Xu Wenrui , Wang Dandan , Guo Qianqian , Zhu Shu , Zhang Lan , Wang Tao , Moloney Mark G. , Du Wei
Published: June 2023

In miniaturized electronic and optoelectronic circuits, molecular tunnel junctions have attracted enormous research interest due to their small footprint, low power consumption, and rich molecular functions. However, the most popular building blocks used in contemporary molecular tunnel junctions are thiol molecules, which attach to electrode surfaces via a metal‐thiolate (MS) bond, showing low stability and usually quick degradation within several days. To pave the way for more widely applicable and stable molecular tunnel junctions, there is a need to develop new molecular anchoring groups. Here, this work demonstrates robust and air‐stable molecular tunnel junctions with a sub‐5 nanometer bis(diarylcarbene)‐based thin film as the tunneling barrier, which anchors to the electrode surface via a AuC bond. The bis(diarylcarbene)‐based molecular tunnel junctions exhibit high thermal stability against heating up to 200 °C and long storage lifetime over 5 months in an ambient environment. Both electrical and optical performance of these bis(diarylcarbene)‐based molecular junctions are characterized systematically, showing similar behaviors to thiol‐based junctions as well as largely improved emission stability. This research highlights the excellent performance of bis(diarylcarbene)‐based molecular tunnel junctions, which could be useful for applications in molecular electronics and plasmonics.
Engineering Functionalized 2D Metal‐Organic Frameworks Nanosheets with Fast Li+ Conduction for Advanced Solid Li Batteries
Authors: Xu Laiqiang , Xiao Xuhuan , Tu Hanyu , Zhu Fangjun , Wang Jing , Liu Huaxin , Huang Weiyuan , Deng Wentao , Hou Hongshuai , Liu Tongchao , Ji Xiaobo , Amine Khalil , Zou Guoqiang
Published: June 2023

Solid‐state batteries can ensure high energy density and safety in lithium metal batteries, while polymer electrolytes are plagued by slow ion kinetics and low selective transport of Li+. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are proposed as emerging fillers for solid‐state poly(ethylene oxide)(PEO) electrolytes, however, developing functionalized MOFs and understanding their roles on ion transfer has proven challenging. Herein, combining computational and experimental results, the functional group regulation in MOFs can effectively change surficial charge distribution and limit anion movement is revealed, providing a potential solution to these issues. Specifically, functionalized 2D MOF sheets are designed through molecular engineering to construct high‐performance composite electrolytes, where the electron‐donating effect of substituents in 2D‐MOFs effectively limits the movement of ClO4− and promotes mechanical properties and ion migration numbers (0.36 up to 0.64) of PEO. As a result, Li/Li cells with composite electrolyte exhibit superior cyclability for 1000 h at a current density of 0.2 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, the solid LiFePO4/Li battery delivers highly reversible capacities of 148.8 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. These findings highlight a new approach for anion confinement through the use of functional group electronic effects, leading to enhanced ionic conductivity, and a feasible direction for high‐performance solid‐state batteries.
Grignard Reagent‐Mediated Regioselective 1,8‐Addition of α‐(2‐Thienylidene)‐β‐ketosulfones
Authors: Chang Meng‐Yang , Chen Kuan‐Ting , Chen Hsing‐Yin
Published: June 2023

Grignard reagent‐mediated and solvent‐controlled regioselective 1,8‐addition of α‐(2‐thienylidene)‐β‐ketosulfones provides diversified substituted 2‐thienylmethyl β‐ketosulfones in moderate yields in a diethyl ether–dioxane cosolvent and dioxane (v/v=4/1) under ice‐bath conditions. The 1,4‐addition of α‐heterocyclic β‐ketosulfones was also studied. The structure of the key product was confirmed via X‐ray analysis. The uses of various reaction solvents and organomagnesium bromides were investigated for transition metal‐free C−H functionalization. Related plausible mechanisms are proposed and discussed. The DFT calculations are utilized to rationalize the regioselectivity of the 1,8‐addition reaction.
Self‐Propelled Nanoswimmers in Biomedical Sensing
Authors: Chen Qianfan , Liang Kang
Published: June 2023

Micro/nanomotors are nano‐devices that can convert energy into power to achieve self‐propulsion. Compared to ordinary nanoparticles, the driving force of nanomotors is their unique advantage. This driving force enables the controllable movement with defined direction and speed, allowing these nanoswimmers to perform more complex functions. Biomarkers are important parameters in clinical medicine and are closely related to disease prediction, diagnosis, and condition monitoring. Existing clinical biomarker monitoring and detection methods often require sophisticated equipment and complex operations. The use of micro/nanomotors is expected to greatly simplify these processes with better sensitivity and reliability. This article introduce the major classes of nanoswimmers based on their sources of energy and driving modes, as well as discuss how nanoswimmers can be used as nanosensors for biomarker detection.
Prelithiation: A Critical Strategy Towards Practical Application of High‐Energy‐Density Batteries
Authors: Zhang Hongqiang , Cheng Jun , Liu Hongbin , Li Deping , Zeng Zhen , Li Yuanyuan , Ji Fengjun , Guo Yixuan , Wei Youri , Zhang Shuai , Bai Tiansheng , Xu Xiao , Peng Ruiqin , Lu Jingyu , Ci Lijie
Published: June 2023

To meet the demand for high‐energy‐density batteries, alloy‐type and conversion‐type anode materials have attracted growing attention due to their high specific capacity. However, the huge irreversible lithium loss during initial cycling significantly reduces the energy density of the full cell, which limits their practical applications. Fortunately, various anode prelithiation techniques have been developed to compensate for the initial lithium loss. At the same time, the cathode prelithiation has been proposed and demonstrated remarkable enhancement in the electrochemical performance, along with excellent scalability and compatibility with the existing battery production processes. Here, recent advances are reviewed in the prelithiation of both anodes and cathodes, and the key challenges are discussed in front of their practical applications. It is aimed to provide better recommendations and assistance for its large‐scale practical applications.
Views on the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on health in people with Down syndrome from diverse backgrounds
Authors: Santoro Stephanie L. , Baker Sandra , Blake Jasmine M. , Cabrera Maria J. , Caughman Kelli , Chung Jeanhee , Cullen Sarah , Gallagher Maureen , Haugen Kelsey , Hoke‐Chandler Roxanne , Krell Kavita , Maina Julius , McLuckie Diana , Merker Vanessa L. , Michael Carie , O'Neill Kate , Peña Angeles , Pless Albert , Royal Dina , Slape Michelle , Spinazzi Noemi Alice , Torres Amy , Torres Carlos G. , Skotko Brian G.
Published: June 2023

Down syndrome (DS) has a unique medical and psychological profile. To date, few studies have asked individuals with DS about their views of health, and fewer have explored the impact of COVID‐19 on the health of individuals with DS and their families. We used a mixed methods approach including two studies on the health of individuals with DS and their parents conducted during the COVID‐19 pandemic: (1) eight virtual focus groups, comprised of 20 parents and 8 individuals with DS to obtain participants' views of health, and (2) a 20‐item questionnaire on health care experience of patients with DS who are African American or come from primarily Spanish‐speaking homes. Focus group transcripts were coded using a hybrid inductive/deductive framework and thematically analyzed using the Framework Method. This questionnaire included questions regarding the impact of COVID‐19 on caregivers and their loved ones with DS; responses to these questions were summarized using descriptive statistics. Individuals with DS discussed the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on their physical and social health including masking, online learning, and online communication with friends and family. Parents of individuals with DS discussed how the COVID‐19 pandemic negatively impacted their child's physical, social, and mental health, as a result of virtual schooling and decreased socialization. There were unexpected positives of the pandemic such as improved hygiene and eased scheduling with telehealth visits. Caregivers noted COVID‐19 impacted their own anxiety, employment, and other domains that have potential ripple effects on the health of their children. The COVID‐19 pandemic had a pervasive impact on the mental health and wellness of caregivers as well as the physical, social, and mental health of individuals with DS.
Selective Vinylogous Aldol Reactions of β‐Methyl‐Substituted Cyclic Enones with Isatins Catalyzed by DBU and Pyrrolidine to Afford 3‐Substituted 3‐Hydroxyoxindoles
Authors: Bethi Venkati , Zahra Syeda Bakhtawar , Rupanawar Bapuaro D. , Tanaka Fujie
Published: June 2023

The development of regioselective aldol reactions of β‐methyl‐substituted cyclic enone derivatives with isatins to afford the aldol products with the bond formation at the methyl group of the β‐methyl‐substituted cyclic enone derivatives is described. Catalyst systems composed of DBU and pyrrolidine with DMSO were identified that resulted in the aldol reactions with almost perfect regioselectivities. DBU, pyrrolidine, and DMSO were all required to selectively afford the γ‐position‐reacted aldol products. With the use of this method, the scope of the 3‐substituted 3‐hydroxyoxindole derivatives that can be concisely synthesized was expanded.
Synthetic Modulation of an Unstable Dehydrosecodine‐type Intermediate and Its Encapsulation into a Confined Cavity Enable Its X‐ray Crystallographic Observation
Authors: Tay Gavin , Wayama Toshiaki , Takezawa Hiroki , Yoshida Satoshi , Sato Sota , Fujita Makoto , Oguri Hiroki
Published: June 2023

Numerous indole alkaloids such as the iboga‐ and aspidosperma‐type are believed to be biosynthesized via a common hypothetical intermediate, dehydrosecodine. The highly reactive nature of dehydrosecodine‐type compounds has hampered their isolation and structural elucidation. In this study, we achieved the first X‐ray structural determination of a dehydrosecodine‐type compound by integrating synthetic optimization of the reactivity and stabilizing the fragile molecule by encapsulation into a supramolecular host. Formation of a 1 : 1 complex of the dehydrosecodine‐type labile guest bearing both vinyl indole and dihydropyridine units with the host was observed. This integrated approach not only provides insights into the biosynthetic conversions but also allows stabilization and storage of the reactive and otherwise short‐lived intermediate within the confined hydrophobic cavity.
Influence of Oslo crystallizer structure characteristics on crystallization process
Authors: Chen Zhirong , Xiang Yanting , Cai Weiling , Yuan Shenfeng , Yin Hong
Published: June 2023

The liquid–solid multiphase flow in Oslo crystallizer was simulated by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and described by Euler–Euler model and k‐ε turbulence model. The velocity field and solid phase concentration field in Oslo crystallizer with different structural elements were systematically studied. The results show that, within the range of 0–82.5°, the fluid velocity and axial mixing in the evaporation chamber are significantly affected by the inlet pipe structure, and the length of the central downcomer also has distinct impact on the crystal classification ability of the crystallizer. As the angle between the axis of the inlet pipe and the tangent line at the inlet point increases, the tangential velocity in the evaporation chamber decreases, the axial velocity near the wall increases, and the volume fraction of solid particles decreases. As the length of the central downcomer increases, the position of the vortex center gradually goes up and moves towards the wall. In order to obtain high‐quality products and extend the continuous operation cycle of the device, the angle between the axis of the inlet pipe and the tangent line at the inlet point should be 60–75°, and the distance between the central downcomer and the bottom of the crystallizer should be .8 m.
Pressure dependent analysis in premise plumbing system modeling
Authors: Burkhardt Jonathan B. , Minor John , Shang Feng , Platten William E.
Published: June 2023

Modeling premise plumbing systems requires accurate treatment of fixture‐specific pressure and flow rate relationships. Each fixture in a building may experience different flow rates based on variable service pressure, its unique pressure‐flow behavior, and demands throughout the building. Unique experimentally derived pressure‐flow parameters for four faucets, a shower/tub fixture, and toilet were developed. The Water Network Tool for Resilience (WNTR) was also used to explore the impact of premise plumbing systems on water distribution systems through two simple skeletonization cases. Minimum pressures for nodes in water distribution system models that represent demand aggregated premise plumbing systems will likely be non‐zero and must capture additional pressure drop or elevation differences at the building scale and associated components, such as water meters or backflow preventers. Results showed that flow rates are impacted by pressure in these systems in complex ways, and usage and system characteristics must be considered to be modeled accurately.
Efficacy of front‐line immunochemotherapy for transplant‐ineligible mantle cell lymphoma: A network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Jing Caixia , Zhao Ailin , Wang Jinjin , Niu Ting
Published: June 2023

Background

There is no standard first‐line immunochemotherapy regimen for transplant‐ineligible patients with mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) currently, and the efficacy of various treatment remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a Bayesian network meta‐analysis (NMA) of all eligible randomized controlled trials. Pairwise comparisons and ranking of different first‐line treatment options were performed.

Results

Nine studies were included in the NMA, involving a total of 2897 MCL patients. The BR‐Ibrutinib+R regimen showed the best progression‐free survival (PFS), with a surface under the cumulative ranking curve (SUCRA) of 0.89 and probability of being the best treatment (PbBT) of 69%. The VR‐CAP regimen was the most potential intervention to improve overall survival (OS), with a SUCRA of 0.89 and PbBT of 63%. Compared with the R‐CHOP regimen, the BR regimen achieved a better PFS (hazard ratio [HR] 0.45 [95% credible interval 0.2–0.96]). The BR‐Ibrutinib+R regimen (HR 0.14 [0.02–0.99]), BR+R regimen (HR 0.19 [0.034–0.99]), and BR regimen (HR 0.3 [0.08–1.03]) were superior to CHOP regimen with better PFS. The R‐FC regimen (HR 2.27 [1.01–5.21]) or FC regimen (HR 3.17 [1.15–8.71]) was inferior to the VR‐CAP regimen with a worse OS.

Conclusions

Our study presents the most promising first‐line treatment strategy for transplant‐ineligible MCL patients in terms of PFS and OS, which provides innovative treatment strategy for MCL treatment.
Hantzsch Ester as Efficient and Economical NAD(P)H Mimic for In Vitro Bioredox Reactions
Authors: Guo Yuan‐Yang , Tian Ze‐Hua , Han Yu‐Chen , Ma Dandan , Shao Tianju , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: June 2023

Biocatalysis has emerged as a valuable and reliable tool for industrial and academic societies, particularly in fields related to bioredox reactions. The cost of cofactors, especially those needed to be replenished at stoichiometric amounts or more, is the chief economic concern for bioredox reactions. In this study, a readily accessible, inexpensive, and bench‐stable Hantzsch ester is verified as the viable and efficient NAD(P)H mimic by four enzymatic redox transformations, including two non‐heme diiron N‐oxygenases and two flavin‐dependent reductases. This finding provides the potential to significantly reduce the costs of NAD(P)H‐relying bioredox reactions.
Autofluorescent Artemisinin‐Benzimidazole Hybrids via Organo‐Click Reaction: Study of Antiviral Properties and Mode of Action in Living Cells
Authors: Herrmann Lars , Hahn Friedrich , Grau Benedikt W. , Wild Markus , Niesar Aischa , Wangen Christina , Kataev Evgeny , Marschall Manfred , Tsogoeva Svetlana B.
Published: June 2023

Drug modification by a fluorescent label is a common tool for studying its mechanism of action with fluorescence microscopy techniques. However, the attachment of a fluorescent label can significantly alter the polarity, solubility, and biological activity of the investigated drug, and, as a result, the studied mechanism of action can be misrepresented. Therefore, developing efficient drugs, which are inherently fluorescent and can be tracked directly in the cell is highly favorable. Here an easy formation of fluorescent hybrid drugs is presented, generated by a combination of two readily available non‐fluorescent pharmacophores via a non‐cleavable linker using a Ramachary‐Bressy‐Wang organocatalyzed azide‐carbonyl [3+2] cycloaddition (organo‐click) reaction. All newly prepared fluorescent compounds showed strong anti‐HCMV activity (EC50 down to 0.07±0.00 μM), thus presenting a very promising drug developmental basis compared to the approved drug ganciclovir (EC50 2.60±0.50 μM). Remarkably, in vitro fluorescent imaging investigation of new compounds revealed induced changes in mitochondrial structures, which is a phenotypical hallmark of antiviral activity. This approach opens up new vistas for the easy formation of potent fluorescent drugs from readily available non‐fluorescent parent compounds and might facilitate insight into their mode of action in living cells, avoiding the requirement of linkage to external fluorescent markers.
London Dispersion Effects on the Stability of Heavy Tetrel Molecules
Authors: Mears Kristian L. , Power Philip P.
Published: June 2023

London dispersion (LD) interactions, which stem from long‐range electron correlations arising from instantaneously induced dipoles can occur between neighboring atoms or molecules, for example, between H atoms within ligand C−H groups. These interactions are currently of interest as a new method of stabilizing long bonds and species with unusual oxidation states. They can also limit reactivity by installing LD enhanced groups into organic frameworks or ligand substituents. Here, we address the most recent advances in the design of LD enhanced ligands, the sterically counterintuitive structures that can be generated and the consequences that these interactions can have on the structures and reactivity of sterically crowded heavy group 14 species.
N2′‐Branched Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonates Containing 9‐Deazahypoxanthine as Inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum 6‐Oxopurine Phosphoribosyltransferase
Authors: Vaňková Karolína , Keough Dianne T. , Hocková Dana , Guddat Luke W. , Janeba Zlatko
Published: June 2023

Twelve N2′‐branched acyclic nucleoside phosphonates and bisphosphonates were synthesized as potential inhibitors of Plasmodium falciparum hypoxanthine‐guanine‐xanthine phosphoribosyltransferase (PfHGXPRT), the key enzyme in the purine salvage pathway for production of purine nucleotides. The chemical structures were designed with the aim to study selectivity of the inhibitors for PfHGXPRT over human HGPRT. The newly prepared compounds contain 9‐deazahypoxanthine connected to a phosphonate group via a five‐atom‐linker bearing a nitrogen atom (N2′) as a branching point. All compounds, with the additional phosphonate group(s) in the second aliphatic linker attached to N2′ atom, were low micromolar inhibitors of PfHGXPRT with low to modest selectivity for the parasite enzyme over human HGPRT. The effect of the addition of different chemical groups/linkers to N2′ atom on the inhibition constants and selectivity is discussed.
Programming heterogeneous architectures using hierarchical tasks
Authors: Faverge Mathieu , Furmento Nathalie , Guermouche Abdou , Lucas Gwenolé , Namyst Raymond , Thibault Samuel , Wacrenier Pierre‐André
Published: June 2023

Task‐based systems have become popular due to their ability to utilize the computational power of complex heterogeneous systems. A typical programming model used is the Sequential Task Flow (STF) model, which unfortunately only supports static task graphs. This can result in submission overhead and a static task graph that is not well‐suited for execution on heterogeneous systems. A common approach is to find a balance between the granularity needed for accelerator devices and the granularity required by CPU cores to achieve optimal performance. To address these issues, we have extended the STF model in the StarPU runtime system by introducing the concept of hierarchical tasks. This allows for a more dynamic task graph and, when combined with an automatic data manager, it is possible to adjust granularity at runtime to best match the targeted computing resource. That data manager makes it possible to switch between various data layout without programmer input and allows us to enforce the correctness of the DAG as hierarchical tasks alter it during runtime. Additionally, submission overhead is reduced by using large‐grain hierarchical tasks, as the submission process can now be done in parallel. We have shown that the hierarchical task model is correct and have conducted an early evaluation on shared memory heterogeneous systems using the Chameleon dense linear algebra library.
Light‐Switchable Metal Complexes: Introducing Photoresponsive Behaviour Through Azoheteroarenes
Authors: Gupta Debapriya , Gaur Ankit Kumar , Kumar Himanshu , Singh Sapna , Venkataramani Sugumar
Published: June 2023

Azoheteroarenes are emerging classes of photoswitches with versatile scaffolds that offer distinct features such as efficient photoisomerization, tunable stability of the photoswitched states, and bidirectional photoswitching. Moreover, the heteroatoms of such photoswitches exhibit coordination ability to bind to the metal centers. The resulting azoheteroarene‐based metal complexes can be designed and developed to tune various metal‐based properties towards intriguing applications such as in optics, magnetic properties, data storage applications, and catalysis. Despite the diverse utility of azopyridines in such contexts, other azoheteroarenes, particularly the state‐of‐the‐art five‐membered heterocycle‐based photoswitches, remain under‐explored. In this Review, we describe the diverse classes of azoheteroarene‐coordinated metal complexes reported in the literature and survey their photoswitching behaviour and applications. Furthermore, we identify potential azoheteroarene candidates for building photochrome‐coupled metal complexes and supramolecular architectures for maximizing the photo‐tuning of metal‐related properties.
Traditional serrated adenoma with superficially serrated adenoma: A case treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection with detailed endoscopic observation and pathological study
Authors: Sato Momoka , Kato Tomoji , Tezen Yu , Hayashi Takeshi , Matsui Toru , Kobayashi Katsuya , Sekigawa Kenichiro , Tajiri Ryosuke , Mitsui Hiroshi
Published: June 2023

A new subtype of serrated lesions, superficially serrated adenoma (SuSA), has been proposed as a lesion that histopathologically exhibits the morphological features of both conventional adenomas and serrated lesions and is difficult to classify as either one. SuSA has been elucidated to be a precursor lesion of KRAS‐type traditional serrated adenoma. It has also been reported that SuSA may have malignant potential.

We report a case treated with endoscopic submucosal dissection and detailed observation. Endoscopy revealed a raised lesion with a two‐tier raised appearance in the sigmoid colon: a tall pinecone‐like reddish structure and flattened whitish elevation on white light imaging. Magnifying narrow‐band imaging revealed conspicuous blood vessels in the pinecone‐like structure and slightly dilated reticular vessels in the flattened area. Crystal violet staining showed that the pinecone‐like structure had a type IVH pit pattern and the flattened area had a stellate to slightly elongated type IIIH pit pattern diagnosed based on Kudo's classification and other pit pattern classification systems. Ki67‐positive cells were distributed in the basal and middle layers of the gland in the flattened elevated area. Genetic analysis results were positive for KRAS mutation and negative for BRAF mutation. Histopathological examination revealed a traditional serrated adenoma in the pinecone‐like structure and SuSA in the adjacent flattened elevated area.
Population structure and phylogeography of three closely related tree peonies
Authors: Liu Guangli , Xue Ge , Zhao Tingting , Li Yang , Yue Liangliang , Song Huixing , Liu Qinglin
Published: June 2023

Paeonia decomposita, Paeonia rotundiloba, and Paeonia rockii are three closely related species of Sect. Moutan is distributed in the montane area of the Eastern Hengduan Mountain region. Understanding the population history of these three tree peony species could contribute to unraveling the evolutionary patterns of undergrowth species in this hotspot area. We used one nuclear DNA marker (internal transcribed spacer region, ITS) and two chloroplast DNA markers (matK, ycf1) to reconstruct the phylogeographic pattern of the populations. In total, 228 individuals from 17 populations of the three species were analyzed in this study. Three nuclear clades (Clade I – Clade III) and four maternal clades (Clade A – Clade D) were reconstructed. Molecular dating suggested that young lineages diverged during the late Pliocene and early Pleistocene, younger than the uplift of the Hengduan Mountains but older than the last glacial maximum (LGM). Significant population and phylogeographic structures were detected at both markers. Furthermore, the populations of these tree peonies were overall at equilibrium during the climatic oscillations of the Pleistocene. The simulated palaeoranges of the three species during the LGM period mostly overlapped, which could have led to cross‐breeding events. We propose an evolutionary scenario in which mountain orogenesis around the Hengduan Mountain area triggered parapatric isolation between maternal lineages of tree peonies. Subsequent climatic fluctuations drove migration and range recontact of these populations along the valleys. This detailed evolutionary history provides new insights into the phylogeographic pattern of species from mountain‐valley systems.
Renal tubular damage and clinical outcome in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Otaki Yoichiro , Watanabe Tetsu , Shimizu Mari , Tachibana Shingo , Sato Junya , Kobayashi Yuta , Saito Yuji , Aono Tomonori , Tamura Harutoshi , Kato Shigehiko , Nishiyama Satoshi , Takahashi Hiroki , Arimoto Takanori , Watanabe Masafumi
Published: June 2023

Aims

Despite advances in heart failure (HF) treatment, HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) remains a health problem with a high mortality rate. HFpEF is composed of diverse phenogroups, of which patients with concomitant renal impairment have worse outcomes. Renal tubular damage (RTD) is associated with the development of HF and chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, the impact of RTD on HF progression in patients with HFpEF and CKD remains unclear. The aim of the present study was to examine whether RTD could predict HF‐related events in patients with HFpEF and CKD.

Methods and results

We measured RTD markers, such as urinary β2‐microglobulin to creatinine ratio (UBCR) and N‐acetyl‐β‐d‐glucosamidase (NAG) level, in 319 consecutive patients with HFpEF and CKD who were hospitalized for acute HF (49% females, mean age 76 ± 12). Based on previous reports, high UBCR and high NAG levels were defined as UBCR ≥300 μg/gCr and NAG >14.2 U/gCr, respectively. There were 91 HF‐related events, defined as HF hospitalizations or HF deaths, during the median follow‐up period of 5.2 years. The prevalence of high UBCR increased with advancing New York Heart Association functional class and albuminuria. Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated that patients with high UBCR had more HF‐related events than those with normal or low UBCR. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analyses demonstrated that high UBCR, but not high NAG level, was an independent predictor of HF‐related events after adjusting for confounding risk factors in patients with HFpEF and CKD (hazard ratio, 2.60; 95% confidence interval, 1.52–4.72; P = 0.0009). UBCR significantly improved the C‐statistic, with a significant net reclassification index and integrated discrimination improvement (0.738 vs. 0.684; P = 0.0244).

Conclusion

RTD, as assessed by a high UBCR, was associated with the severity and clinical outcomes of HFpEF and CKD, indicating that it could be a feasible marker for HF progression.