bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diuretic and Antiurolithic Effect of Garcinia humilis (Vahl) C.D. Adams Leaves, a Medicinal Plant Native to South American Countries
Authors: Mariano Luísa Nathália Bolda , Pontioli Daiane Aline , da Silva Ana Aline , Niero Rivaldo , Cechinel‐Filho Valdir , de Souza Priscila
Published: August 2022

This study evaluated the diuretic and antiurolithic effect of methanolic extract (MEGHL), dichloromethane (DCM), and ethyl acetate (EtA) fractions obtained from the leaves of Garcinia humilis, a medicinal plant known as achachairu and native to South American countries such as Bolivia, Peru, and Brazil. For the analysis of diuretic effect, the female rats received the treatment with MEGHL (3, 10, and 30 mg/kg), DCM (1, 3 and 10 mg/kg), EtA (1, 3, and 10 mg/kg), hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ; 10 mg/kg), or vehicle (VEH) after an overload of saline solution. At the end 8 h of the experiment, the urinary parameters were measured. Additionally, the antiurolithic effect was analyzed, in which sodium oxalate was added in synthetic urine in the presence or absence of MEGHL, DCM, and EtA in different concentrations (0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/mL). MEGHL, DCM, and EtA were able to promote 8‐h diuresis in rats. MEGHL treatment at dose 30 mg/kg was accompanied by increased urinary Na+, K+ and Cl− excretion. Moreover, the DCM and EtA fractions treatment increased K+ and Cl− excretion in the urine, although it does not cause any change in Na+ elimination. All the preparations were able to exert an antiurolithic effect in vitro, decreasing the number of calcium oxalate crystals of the monohydrate and dihydrate types. Taking together, the results presented herein showed that the preparations of G. humilis leaves are promising strategies to induce diuresis and antiurolithic effects.
Metal‐catalyzed Radical Trifluoromethylthiolation of Aryl Boronic Acids in the Aqueous Phase
Authors: Shao Xiao , Zhou Shengnan , Hu Zhaoxin , Zha Yuxin , Wu Shengxia , Wang Xiaoyu , Xu Shengtao , Zhou Haipin
Published: August 2022

We successfully developed an efficient and environment‐friendly reaction with aryl boronic acids to obtain a wide range of trifluoromethylthiolated molecules in satisfactory yields. Investigations of the reaction mechanism indicated that this transformation proceeds via a free radical pathway. Compared to the previously reported radical strategies, the reagent 2 d was thermally stable, easily synthesized, and a scalable trifluoromethylthiolating reagent. This method will enable organic chemists to easily synthesize molecules bearing the SCF3 group under conditions that are compatible with various other functional groups.
Discrete Events of Ionosomes at the Water/Toluene Micro‐Interface
Authors: Zhang Jingyan , Huang Linhan , Fang Taoxiong , Du Feng , Xiang Zhipeng , Zhang Jingcheng , Chen Ran , Peljo Pekka , Ouyang Gangfeng , Deng Haiqiang
Published: August 2022

Emulsification is a powerful technique for dispersing one fluid (water or oil) in the form of tiny droplets within an immiscible continuous fluid (oil or water). Hence, emulsion is an essential component of medicine, food, and shampoo, to name a few. An emulsifier, e. g., a surfactant, is normally added inside emulsions to stabilize the water/oil interfaces. Ionosomes, nanoscopic water droplets enclosed solely by an ionic bilayer, in which one layer formed from small and more mobile hydrated ions residing in the inner aqueous side and another layer formed from lipophilic bulky counter‐ions riveted tightly in the adjacent outer oil side, were generated and in‐situ counted “one at a time” at a polarized water/toluene micro‐interface. Chemical polarization through the biphasic distribution of an antagonistic salt proved the proposed ionic bilayer structure of ionosomes. Promotion effect on Li+–ionosomes revealed by single‐entity electrochemistry for quaternary ammonium cations with different alkyl chain length and with different concentration sheds new light on the mechanism of ionosomes. Fusion of a Li+–ionosome with the polarized soft micro‐interface follows the bulk electrolysis model.
Proton Conduction at High Temperature in High‐Symmetry Hydrogen‐Bonded Molecular Crystals of RuIII Complexes with Six Imidazole–Imidazolate Ligands
Authors: Tadokoro Makoto , Itoh Masaki , Nishimura Ryota , Sekiguchi Kensuke , Hoshino Norihisa , Kamebuchi Hajime , Miyazaki Jun , Kobayashi Fumiya , Mizuno Motohiro , Akutagawa Tomoyuki
Published: August 2022

Invited for the cover of this issue is mainly the group of Makoto Tadokoro and co‐workers at Tokyo University of Science. Other co‐workers are Masaki Itoh, Ryota Nishimura, Kensuke Sekiguchi (TUS students), Dr. Norihisa Hoshino (Tohoku Univ.), Dr. Hajime Kamebuchi (Nihon Univ.), Dr. Jun Miyazaki (Tokyo Denki Univ.), Prof. Motohiro Mizuno (Kanazawa Univ.) and Prof. Tomoyuki Akutagawa (Tohoku Univ.). The image depicts on two mechanisms of proton transport rotations of the proton‐conductive starburst molecule [RuIII(HIm)3(Im)3]. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202201397.
Use of breast surveillance between women with pathogenic variants and variants of uncertain significance in breast cancer susceptibility genes
Authors: Makhnoon Sukh , Chen Minxing , Levin Brooke , Ensinger Megan , Mattie Kristin D. , Grana Generosa , Shete Sanjay , Arun Banu K. , Peterson Susan K.
Published: August 2022

Background

Use of surveillance mammography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been understudied among women with variant of uncertain significance (VUS) compared to pathogenic and likely pathogenic variants (P/LP).

Methods

Using data from two cancer settings, we calculated use of risk‐reducing mastectomy (RRM) and surveillance during each 13‐month span after genetic testing up to 6 years afterwards for a cohort of genetically elevated risk women.

Results

Of 889 women, VUS carriers were less likely to undergo RRM compared to those with P/LP (hazard ratio [HR], 0.17; p = <.001) and high‐risk women were more likely to undergo RRM than average‐risk women (HR, 3.91; p = .005). Longitudinally, surveillance use among unaffected women decreased from 49.8% in the first year to 31.2% in the sixth year after genetic testing. In comparison, a greater proportion of women with a personal history of breast cancer underwent surveillance, which increased from 59.3% in the first year to 63.6% in the sixth year after genetic testing. Mammography rates did not differ between women with P/LP and VUS within the first 13 months after genetic testing and up to 4 years afterward. Over the first 4 years after genetic testing, women with VUS were less likely to undergo annual MRIs compared to P/LP.

Conclusion

The authors found that VUS, whether in high or moderate penetrance breast cancer susceptibility genes, was associated with lower use of annual breast MRI compared to P/LP variants and equivalent use of annual mammography. These results add important evidence regarding VUS‐related breast surveillance.
Uncovering additional predictors of urothelial carcinoma from voided urothelial cell clusters through a deep learning–based image preprocessing technique
Authors: Levy Joshua J. , Liu Xiaoying , Marotti Jonathan D. , Kerr Darcy A. , Gutmann Edward J. , Glass Ryan E. , Dodge Caroline P. , Suriawinata Arief A. , Vaickus Louis J.
Published: August 2022

Background

Urine cytology is commonly used as a screening test for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma for patients with risk factors or hematuria and is an essential step in longitudinal monitoring of patients with previous bladder cancer history. However, the semisubjective nature of current reporting systems for urine cytology (e.g., The Paris System) can hamper reproducibility. For instance, the incorporation of urothelial cell clusters into the classification schema is still an item of debate and perplexity among expert cytopathologists because several previous works have disputed their diagnostic relevance.

Methods

In this work, an automated preprocessing tool for urothelial cell cluster assessment was developed that divides urothelial cell clusters into meaningful components for downstream assessment (ie, population‐based studies, workflow automation).

Results

In this work, an automated preprocessing tool for urothelial cell cluster assessment was developed that divides urothelial cell clusters into meaningful components for downstream assessment (ie, population‐based studies, workflow automation). Results indicate that cell cluster atypia (i.e., defined by whether the cell cluster harbored multiple atypical cells, thresholded by a minimum number of cells), cell border overlap and smoothness, and total number of clusters are important markers of specimen atypia when considering assessment of urothelial cell clusters.

Conclusions

Markers established through techniques to separate cell clusters may have wider applicability for the design and implementation of machine learning approaches for urine cytology assessment.
Identification of Lithocholic Acid as a Molecular Glass Host for Room‐Temperature Phosphorescent Materials
Authors: Flynn John J. , Marsh Zachary M. , Krein Douglas M. , Wolf Steven M. , Haley Joy E. , Vasquez Erick S. , Cooper Thomas M. , Godman Nicholas P. , Grusenmeyer Tod A.
Published: August 2022

Lithocholic acid was identified as a molecular glass host material for room temperature phosphorescent (RTP) chromophores. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) was performed on a series of structurally similar, biologically sourced molecules, including lithocholic acid, β‐estradiol, cholesterol, and β‐sitosterol, in an effort to identify new amorphous molecular glasses independent of plasticizing additives. DSC analysis revealed lithocholic acid and β‐estradiol form stable molecular glasses post thermal processing unlike neat cholesterol and β‐sitosterol. The ability of lithocholic acid and β‐estradiol to stabilize high wt. % loadings of d10‐pyrene and a mixture of d10‐pyrene and an iridium chromophore, bis(2,4‐difluorophenylpyridinato)‐tetrakis(1‐pyrazolyl)borate iridium(III) (FIr6), was also investigated. All β‐estradiol formulations show β‐estradiol cold crystallization. Optical microscopy and wide angle X‐ray scattering measurements suggest spherulite β‐estradiol crystals form during this process. Finally, time‐resolved luminescence and phosphorescence quantum yield experiments show that the d10‐pyrene RTP lifetime is longer and the d10‐pyrene phosphorescence quantum yield is higher in lithocholic acid molecular glasses than in β‐estradiol molecular glasses. The discrepancy in lifetime and quantum yield values is explained by quantitatively smaller rates of non‐radiative decay from the triplet state of d10‐pyrene in lithocholic acid.
Construction of Fluorine‐ and Piperazine‐Engineered Covalent Triazine Frameworks Towards Enhanced Dual‐Ion Positive Electrode Performance
Authors: Wang Tao , Gaugler James Anthony , Li Meijia , Thapaliya Bishnu Prasad , Fan Juntian , Qiu Liqi , Moitra Debabrata , Kobayashi Takeshi , Popovs Ilja , Yang Zhenzhen , Dai Sheng
Published: August 2022

Organic positive electrodes featuring lightweight and tunable energy storage modes by molecular structure engineering have promising application prospects in dual‐ion batteries. Herein, a series of highly porous covalent triazine frameworks (CTFs) were synthesized under ionothermal conditions using fluorinated aromatic nitrile monomers containing a piperazine ring. Fluorinated monomers can result in more defects in CTFs, leading to a higher surface area up to 2515 m2 g−1and a higher N content of 11.34 wt % compared to the products from the non‐fluorinated monomer. The high surface area and abundant redox sites of these CTFs afforded high specific capacities (up to 279 mAh g−1at 0.1 A g−1), excellent rate performance (89 mAh g−1at 5 A g−1), and durable cycling performance (92.3 % retention rate after 500 cycles at 2.0 A g−1) as dual‐ion positive electrodes.
Application‐Based Prospects for Dual‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Holoubek John , Chen Zheng , Liu Ping
Published: August 2022

Dual‐ion batteries (DIBs) exhibit a distinct set of performance advantages and disadvantages due to their unique storage mechanism. However, the current cyclability/energy density tradeoffs of anion storage paired with the intrinsic required electrolyte loadings of conventional DIBs preclude their widespread adoption as an alternative to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Despite this, their reduced desolvation penalty and low‐cost electrode materials may warrant their employment for low‐temperature and/or grid storage applications. To expand beyond these applications, this Perspective reviews the prospects of solid salt storage and halogen intercalation‐conversion as viable methods to increase DIB energy densities to a level on‐par with LIBs. Fundamental limitations of conventional DIBs are examined, technology spaces are proposed where they can make meaningful impact over LIBs, and potential strategies are outlined to improve cell‐level energy densities necessary for the widespread adoption of DIBs.
Heterologous booster vaccination with CoronaVac following prime vaccination with mRNA vaccine
Authors: Goh Yun Shan , Fong Siew‐Wai , Rouers Angeline , Chang Zi Wei , Tay Matthew Zirui , Chavatte Jean‐Marc , Zhuo Nicole Ziyi , Hor Pei Xiang , Loh Chiew Yee , Huang Yuling , Wong Joel Xu En , Tan Yong Jie , Lim Daniel Rui Xiang , Wang Bei , Ngoh Eve Zi Xian , Salleh Siti Nazihah Mohd , Lee Raphael Tze Chuen , Pada Surinder , Sun Louisa Jin , Ong Desmond Luan Seng , Somani Jyoti , Lee Eng Sing ,   NCID Study Group,   COVID‐19 Study Group, Maurer‐Stroh Sebastian , Wang Cheng‐I , Leo Yee‐Sin , Lin Raymond TP , Ren Ee Chee , Lye David C , Young Barnaby Edward , Lim Poh Lian , Ng Lisa FP , Renia Laurent
Published: August 2022

Objective

Despite the high vaccine efficacy of mRNA COVID‐19 vaccines, there are individuals who developed excessive reactogenic and/or allergic responses after the first mRNA dose and were considered ineligible for further mRNA doses. CoronaVac, an inactivated SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccine, is recommended in Singapore as an alternative.

Methods

Individuals, ineligible for further mRNA vaccines (BNT162b2 or mRNA‐1273) because of excessive reactive responses to prime mRNA vaccination, were recruited and offered two doses of CoronaVac as booster vaccination 38–224 days post their mRNA vaccine dose. Individuals who did not develop any excessive reactive responses after the prime mRNA vaccination were also recruited and given another mRNA vaccine as booster vaccination. Blood samples were collected at days 0, 21 and 90 post first CoronaVac dose and mRNA dose, respectively, for analysis.

Results

We showed that two CoronaVac booster doses induced specific immunity in these mRNA vaccine‐primed individuals. Although the spike‐specific antibody response was lower, their memory B cell response against the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein was similar, compared with individuals who received two BNT162b2 injections. The spike‐specific memory T cell response also increased following CoronaVac booster doses. However, specific immunity against the Omicron variant was low, similar to individuals with two BNT162b2 doses.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that while mRNA vaccine‐primed individuals can opt for two subsequent doses of CoronaVac, an additional dose may be necessary to achieve protection, especially against newly emerging immune escape variants such as Omicron.
Whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing analysis of circulating tumour DNA for the detection and molecular classification of cancer
Authors: Gao Yibo , Zhao Hengqiang , An Ke , Liu Zongzhi , Hai Luo , Li Renda , Zhou Yang , Zhao Weipeng , Jia Yongsheng , Wu Nan , Li Lingyu , Ying Jianming , Wang Jie , Xu Binghe , Wu Zhihong , Tong Zhongsheng , He Jie , Sun Yingli
Published: August 2022

Background

Cancer cell–specific variation and circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) methylation are promising biomarkers for non‐invasive cancer detection and molecular classification. Nevertheless, the applications of ctDNA to the early detection and screening of cancer remain highly challenging due to the scarcity of cancer cell–specific ctDNA, the low signal‐to‐noise ratio of DNA variation, and the lack of non‐locus‐specific DNA methylation technologies.

Methods

We enrolled three cohorts of breast cancer (BC) patients from two hospitals in China (BC: n = 123; healthy controls: n = 40). We developed a ctDNA whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing technology employing robust trace ctDNA capture from up to 200 μL plasma, mini‐input (1 ng) library preparation, unbiased genome‐wide coverage and comprehensive computational methods.

Results

A diagnostic signature comprising 15 ctDNA methylation markers exhibited high accuracy in the early (area under the curve [AUC] of 0.967) and advanced (AUC of 0.971) BC stages in multicentre patient cohorts. Furthermore, we revealed a ctDNA methylation signature that discriminates estrogen receptor status (Training set: AUC of 0.984 and Test set: AUC of 0.780). Different cancer types, including hepatocellular carcinoma and lung cancer, could also be well distinguished.

Conclusions

Our study provides a toolset to generate unbiased whole‐genome ctDNA methylomes with a minimal amount of plasma to develop highly specific and sensitive biomarkers for the early diagnosis and molecular subtyping of cancer.
Pre‐operative risk factors for driveline infection in left ventricular‐assist device patients
Authors: Köhler Ann‐Kristin , Körperich Hermann , Morshuis Michiel , Freytag Claudia Christine , Gummert Jan , Burchert Wolfgang , Preuss Rainer , Körfer Jan
Published: August 2022

Aims

Implantation of left ventricular‐assist devices (LVAD) to treat end‐stage heart failure is of increasing relevance due to donor shortage. Infections of the driveline are common adverse events. LVAD infections can lead to high urgency listings for transplantation. However, transplantation in patients with infection leads to worse post‐transplantation outcomes. This study aims to evaluate specific risk factors for driveline infections at the time of implantation.

Methods and results

Four hundred forty‐one patients receiving either Heartmate II or Heartware system from August 2009 to October 2013 were assessed. An expert committee sorted patients into four different groups concerning the likeliness of infection. Twenty‐eight (6%) of discussed infection cases were judged as secured, 33 (7%) as likely, 18 (4%) as possible, and 20 (4%) as unlikely. The remaining 342 (78%) subjects showed either no signs of infection at all times (329 [75%]) or developed signs of infection in a second observation period within 1 year after ending of the first observation period (13 [3%]). For a better discriminatory power, cases of secured and likely infections were tested against the group with no infection at all times in a Cox proportional hazard model. Among all variables tested by univariate analysis (significance level P < 0.15), only age (P = 0.07), LVAD‐type (P = 0.12), need for another thoracic operation (P = 0.02), and serum creatinine value (P = 0.02) reached statistical significance. These were subsequently subjected to multivariate analysis to calculate the cumulative risk of developing a drive infection. The multivariate analysis showed that of all the potential risk factors tested, only the necessity of re‐thoracotomy or secondary thoracic closure had a significant, protective effect (hazard ratio [95% CI] = 0.45 [0.21–0.95]; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

This single‐centre cohort study shows that driveline infections are common adverse events. The duration of support represents the major risk factor for LVAD driveline infections.
NaOH/BEt3 Catalyzed Regioselective Hydroboration of Epoxides to Secondary Alcohols
Authors: Wang Jiali , Yao Wubin , Hu Dandan , Qi Xinxin , Zhang Jun‐Qi , Ren Hongjun
Published: August 2022

A regioselective hydroboration/hydrolysis of epoxides with pinacolborane catalyzed by NaOH/BEt3 was achieved. Glycidyl oxide, styrene oxide and adamantane epoxide underwent facile hydroboration/deprotection to provide secondary alcohols with exclusive selectivity in good to excellent yields. Moreover, the stereochemistry of epoxides could also be well retained, and the corresponding secondary alcohols were obtained with high optical activity under alkaline catalysis. Significantly, in this reaction, diverse functional groups can be compatible, including hydrogenation‐sensitive groups, such as carbon‐carbon double bonds and halogens.
A critical review on inductive wireless power transfer charging system in electric vehicle
Authors: Palani Geetha , Sengamalai Usha
Published: August 2022

Considering a prospect where a driverless electric vehicle (EV) requires an automatic charging system that does not need a person to do anything. In this case, there is a need for a fully automated, fast, safe, cost‐effective, and reliable charging infrastructure that can be used for EVs and other EVs. This infrastructure must also be profitable and allow for quick adoption in electric transportation systems. Wireless charging methods may allow you to understand these characteristics. Wireless power transfer (WPT) is a future technology that offers flexibility, convenience, safety, and the capacity to be automated. Due to its high efficiency and ease of maintenance, resonant inductive wireless charging should get more attention in WPT techniques than other WPT methods. This literature provides an overview of the status of Resonant Inductive Wireless Power Transfer Charging technology, as well as a look at the current and prospects of the wireless EV industry. First, the article provides a brief history of wireless charging technologies, outlining the benefits and drawbacks. Then, the research assists in a comparative analysis of various types of WPT methodologies, control strategies, and compensation networks that have been done so far. The static and dynamic charging procedures, as well as their features, are shown. To increase charging power, a novel approach to the usage of superconducting materials in coil designs is examined, and their potential influence on wireless charging is highlighted. The detailed role and importance of power electronics, as well as the many types of converters utilized in diverse applications, are highlighted. The batteries and their management systems, as well as numerous WPT difficulties, are also discussed. Different trades are investigated, including cyber security economic consequences, health and safety, foreign object identification, and the effect and influence on the distribution grid. This article also highlights the opportunities and challenges associated with wireless charging systems. We anticipate that our effort will contribute to the advancement of WPT system research and development.
When action prediction grows old: An fMRI study
Authors: Sacheli Lucia Maria , Verga Chiara , Zapparoli Laura , Seghezzi Silvia , Tomasetig Giulia , Banfi Giuseppe , Paulesu Eraldo
Published: August 2022

Predicting the unfolding of others' actions (action prediction) is crucial for successfully navigating the social world and interacting efficiently. Age‐related changes in this domain have remained largely unexplored, especially for predictions regarding simple gestures and independent of contextual information or motor expertise. Here, we evaluated whether healthy aging impacts the neurophysiological processes recruited to anticipate, from the observation of implied‐motion postures, the correct conclusion of simple grasping and pointing actions. A color‐discrimination task served as a control condition to assess the specificity of the age‐related effects. Older adults showed reduced efficiency in performance that was yet not specific to the action prediction task. Nevertheless, fMRI results revealed task‐specific age‐related differences: while both groups showed stronger recruitment of the lateral occipito‐temporal cortex bilaterally during the action prediction than the control task, the younger participants additionally showed a higher bilateral engagement of parietal regions. Importantly, in both groups, the recruitment of visuo‐motor processes in the right posterior parietal cortex was a predictor of good performance. These results support the hypothesis of decreased involvement of sensorimotor processes in cognitive tasks when processing action‐ and body‐related stimuli in healthy aging. These results have implications for social interaction, which requires the fast reading of others' gestures.
Economic shocks, health, and social protection: The effect of COVID‐19 income shocks on health and mitigation through cash transfers in South Africa
Authors: Ohrnberger Julius
Published: August 2022

COVID‐19 caused an unprecedented health and economic crisis. Nation‐wide lockdowns triggered major economic disruptions across the world. We provide evidence of the impact of these extreme economic shocks on health outcomes across wealth levels. We further identify if cash transfers can mitigate the negative health effects for the most economically vulnerable. The study focuses on South Africa, an Upper Middle‐Income Country with high levels of inequality, a large informal labor market and with low levels of social welfare. Using difference‐in‐difference estimation (DD) on a longitudinal sample of 6437 South Africans, we find that the lockdown income shock significantly reduces health by 0.2 standard deviations (SD). We find no difference of the effect across wealth quartiles. Exposure to a cash transfer program mitigates the negative health effects for recipients in the lowest wealth quartile to 0.25 SD compared to 0.4 SD for non‐recipients. Full mitigation occurs for individuals exposed to an on average higher scale‐up of the cash transfer program. Our analysis shows that a lockdown induced income shock caused adverse health outcomes; however, a pro‐poor cash transfer program protected the most economically vulnerable from these negative health effects.
LncRNA NEAT1 induces autophagy through the miR‐128‐3p/ADAM28 axis to suppress apoptosis of nonsmall‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Xie Yue , Zheng Zhao‐Wei , He Hao‐Ting , Chang Zhi‐Bo
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to identify the molecular mechanism underlying NEAT1 regulation of non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) autophagy and apoptosis. The expression levels of NEAT1, miR‐128‐3p, and ADAM28 in NSCLC tissues and cells were examined using qRT‐PCR. The relationships between NEAT1, miR‐128‐3p, and ADAM28 expression levels and prognosis of NSCLC patients were investigated using the Kaplan–Meier analysis method. The interactions between NEAT1, miR‐128‐3p, and ADAM28 were confirmed by dual‐luciferase reporter assay or FISH assay. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were detected by CCK‐8 and flow cytometry assays, respectively. Apoptosis and autophagy‐related proteins Bax, cleaved caspase‐3, cleaved caspase‐9, Bcl‐2, LC3, Beclin‐1, and p62 were analyzed by western blotting. Finally, an in vivo NSCLC mouse xenograft model was established to confirm the in vitro data. We showed NEAT1 and ADAM28 expression levels were upregulated, while the miR‐128‐3p level was downregulated in NSCLC tissues and cells. NSCLC patients with high NEAT1 expression levels, low miR‐128‐3p levels, or high ADAM28 levels had significantly reduced overall survival times. Silencing of NEAT1 inhibited NSCLC cell autophagy and promoted apoptosis by sponging miR‐128‐3p. MiR‐128‐3p directly targeted ADAM28 and suppressed ADAM28 expression, which led to deactivation of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. Furthermore, ADAM28 overexpression attenuated miR‐128‐3p overexpression‐induced apoptosis and autophagy inhibition in NSCLC by increasing the phosphorylation of JAK2 and STAT3. NEAT1 depletion or miR‐128‐3p overexpression inhibited autophagy and promoted apoptosis in vivo by suppressing ADAM28. In other word, silencing NEAT1 inhibited autophagy and then promoted NSCLC cell apoptosis by deactivating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway through regulation of miR‐128‐3p/ADAM28 axis.
Differential Migration and Proliferation Potential of the Hydrogel Aided 3D Tumoroid
Authors: Modi Unnati , Kedaria Dhaval , Vasita Rajesh
Published: August 2022

For substantial in vitro cancer biology research, the 3D cell culture method has now been regarded as more suitable model expected to be recapitulating maximum in vivo tumor mass relevance. Despite of available techniques to develop in vitro 3D models, a system availing a physiologically relevant in vitro 3D model of primary lung adenocarcinoma with extracellular matrix (ECM) mimicry and similar tumorigenic properties still remains a quest. Thus, in the present study, chemically modified Dextran‐Chitosan (MDC) hydrogel has been developed as a 3D tumoroid aiding scaffold. The 3D A549 tumoroids aided by the MDC scaffold have physiologically relevant proliferation, migration, invasive potential, and Gefitinib [targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)] efficacy as compared to the 2D cultured cells. The surface topography and wettability of hydrogel availed in vivo micro tumor mass mimicking Lung adenocarcinoma 3D in vitro model. Thus, opening an innovative avenue for elucidating the disease mechanism and drug efficacy on relevant 3D cancer models in vitro.
Thermomechanical Degradation of Polypropylene – Polystyrene Blends During Extrusion‐Based Melt Blending – A First Survey of Shear‐Induced Molecular Architecture Changes
Authors: Fan Zengxuan , Yu Zhou , Steuernagel Leif , Fischlschweiger Michael
Published: August 2022

Polymer blends made of plastic waste and manufactured by extrusion‐based melt blending are of particular importance for mechanical recycling in the context of tailoring material properties for value‐added applications. For both, property tailoring and for suppressing downcycling, it is inevitable to understand the thermomechanical degradation behavior of the blends, induced by melt‐blending. In this investigation, the thermomechanical degradation of polypropylene (PP) – polystyrene (PS) blends are analyzed for different blend compositions based on cross‐fractionation chromatography. This method allows for the first time to separate PP from PS with simultaneously analyzing the change in the molecular architecture distribution due to thermomechanical degradation. It is revealed that the melt‐blending induced degradation effect is primarily occurring in PP, where besides a reduction of chain length, significant chain irregularities are generated. It is observed that PP degradation is increasing with a growing proportion of PS. These new findings offer the first insights into the thermomechanical degradation of PP/PS blends.
Transparent and Self‐Healing Elastomers for Reconfigurable 3D Materials
Authors: Yimyai Tiwa , Pena‐Francesch Abdon , Crespy Daniel
Published: August 2022

Transparent soft materials are widely used in applications ranging from packaging to flexible displays, wearable devices, and optical lenses. Nevertheless, soft materials are susceptible to mechanical damage, leading to functional failure and premature disposal. Herein, a transparent self‐healing elastomer that is able to repair the polymer network via exchange reactions of dynamic disulfide bonds is introduced. Due to its self‐healing ability, the mechanical properties of the elastomer can be recovered as well as its transparency after multiple cycles of abrasion and healing. The self‐healing polymer is fabricated into 3D structures by folding or modular origami assembly of planar self‐healing polymer sheets. The 3D polymer objects are employed as storage containers of solid and liquid substances, reactors for photopolymerization, and cuvettes for optical measurements (exhibiting superior properties to those of commercial cuvettes). These dynamic polymers show outstanding mechanical, optical, and recycling properties that could potentially be further adapted in adaptive smart packaging, reconfigurable materials, optical devices, and recycling of elastomers.
Spatiotemporal Control Over Base‐Catalyzed Hydrogelation Using a Bilayer System
Authors: Ravarino Paolo , Panja Santanu , Adams Dave J.
Published: August 2022

Controlling the formation and directional growth of hydrogels is a challenge. In this paper, a new methodology to program the gel formation both over space and time is proposed, using the diffusion and subsequent hydrolysis of 1,1′‐carbonyldiimidazole from an immiscible organic solution to the aqueous gel media.
Comprehensive characterization of AA 2024T3 fiber metal laminate with nanosilica‐reinforced epoxy based polymeric composite panel for lightweight applications
Authors: Vijayan Muniyan , Selladurai Velappan , Balaganesan Gurusamy , Suganya Priyadharshini Ganesan
Published: August 2022

Fiber metal laminates (FMLs) are a hybrid composite material used in aircraft structural parts. They are fabricated by stacking thin aluminum sheets with a fiber‐reinforced polymer composite. In this research work, nanosilica was mixed with epoxy resin in different weight percentages such as 0, 1, 3, 5, and 7 wt% for the preparation of FML. Nanosilica was used as a secondary reinforcement in the epoxy resin to improve the interfacial bonding and mechanical strength of the FML. The morphology and chemical compositions of the cured nanosilica‐dispersed epoxy resin and aluminum were examined using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, field‐emission scanning electron microscope, and energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis. Thermogravimetric analysis was used to investigate the thermal stability of epoxy before and after the addition of nanosilica. FML was prepared using the hand layup and compression molding processes by sandwiching thin aluminum alloy sheet and E‐glass fiber. The FML specimens were cut using an abrasive water jet machine as per ASTM standards for determining their mechanical characteristics such as tensile strength, flexural strength, and short‐beam strength. Vibrational analysis was undertaken, and the natural frequency and damping factor for the FML specimens were determined. The results revealed that the tensile strength of pure FML was increased by 7% for 3 wt% nanosilica‐dispersed FML. Flexural and interlaminar shear strength was increased by 30.5% and 10.9%, respectively for the 1 wt% nanosilica‐dispersed FML was compared to pure FML.
Influence of personality profile in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy on quality of life following surgical treatment: A 1‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Iurina Elena , Bailles Eva , Carreño Mar , Donaire Antonio , Rumià Jordi , Boget Teresa , Bargalló Núria , Setoain Xavier , Roldan Pedro , Conde‐Blanco Estefanía , Centeno María , Pintor Luis
Published: August 2022

The objectives of this study are to determine the influence of personality profile in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy on quality of life (QoL) after surgical treatment and compare the results with a non‐surgical control group at the 1‐year follow‐up. We conducted a prospective, comparative, controlled study, including 70 patients suffering from drug‐resistant epilepsy. Demographic, psychiatric, neurological, and psychological data were recorded at the baseline and at the 1‐year follow‐up. Assessment of personality dimensions was performed using the NEO‐FFI‐R questionnaire; severity of anxiety and depression were assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and QoL was evaluated using the QOLIE‐31. At the 1‐year follow‐up, comparing the control and the surgical groups, we detected differences in scores of most items of QoL, which were higher in those patients who had undergone surgery. High levels of Conscientiousness and Openness to experience at the baseline in patients who underwent surgery predicted better post‐surgical outcomes in the QoL scores, whereas high neurotic patients showed worse QoL results. Postoperative changes in QoL in patients were associated with the personality profile at the baseline. QoL measures significantly improved in the surgical group compared with the non‐surgical group but were not associated with baseline or postoperative seizure frequency at 1 year.
Collection of native Theobroma cacao L. accessions from the Ecuadorian Amazon highlights a hotspot of cocoa diversity
Authors: Fouet Olivier , Loor Solorzano Rey Gaston , Rhoné Bénédicte , Subía Cristian , Calderón Darío , Fernández Fabián , Sotomayor Ignacio , Rivallan Ronan , Colonges Kelly , Vignes Hélène , Angamarca Freddy , Yaguana Byron , Costet Pierre , Argout Xavier , Lanaud Claire
Published: August 2022

Societal Impact Statement

“Fine flavor” cocoa, known for its superior flavor and aroma, commands a higher price for farmers than “bulk” cocoa produced for market. These fine flavor cocoa varieties make an important contribution to the agricultural sector in Ecuador. However, cocoa diversity is threatened by deforestation. The effective preservation, characterization, and use of cocoa tree diversity are therefore essential to the future development of this market. We carried out participatory collection surveys with local communities in the Ecuadorian Amazon Forest, to evaluate the genetic diversity of native cocoa trees and protect trees as a resource for local communities. Accessing this wealth of diversity will aid farmers to safeguard cocoa against climate change and develop new varieties for market.

The aromatic Nacional variety of Theobroma cacao, emblematic of Ecuador, is highly sought after by the chocolate industry. The modern Nacional is a hybrid population resulting from genetic admixture that has lost the specificity of the ancestral variety. In the context of progressive forest disappearance, the objective of our study was to collect, safeguard, and evaluate native aromatic cocoa trees from Ecuadorian Amazon areas previously identified as areas of origin of the Nacional variety, as well as those that extend toward the northern Amazon.

Four collection expeditions were organized in the Ecuadorian Amazon provinces of Zamora‐Chinchipe, Morona‐Santiago, and Pastaza in close collaboration with local communities. A total of 283 native accessions were collected and safeguarded at experimental stations and in local communities. The genetic diversity of the cocoa trees was analyzed by comparison to known genetic groups with a set of 48 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers.

This new collection clearly enriches the currently known diversity and improves knowledge of the global genetic structure of cocoa trees. Our results clarify the geographic origin of the Nacional variety in the vicinity of an archeological site that housed a Maya Chinchipe population that consumed cacao 5,000 years ago. In addition, our analyses revealed clues to the origin of Criollo, another ancient variety with a fine flavor.

These new genetic resources will be used in breeding programs for the varietal improvement of new aromatic cocoa varieties and more globally for the selection of new varieties adapted to environmental changes.
Synthesis of SnS2/Carbon Quantum Dots/g‐C3N4 Composite and Its Photocatalytic Property
Authors: Jin Tao , Liu Chengbao , Chen Feng , Qian Junchao , Qiu Yongbin , Meng Xianrong , Chen Zhigang
Published: August 2022

Photocatalytic degradation of organic pollutants is considered an ideal method to solve the global environmental pollution problem. In this method, photocatalytic materials are regarded as the key factor. As an n‐type photocatalytic material, graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) has attracted much attention due to its suitable bandgap, nontoxicity, and high photostability. However, g‐C3N4 still has defects such as insufficient visible light absorption, low specific surface area, and easy recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, which lead to the poor photocatalytic performance of g‐C3N4. Herein, to solve the above problems, thiourea, lemon juice, and tin chloride pentahydrate are used as precursors, while carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are used as electron mediators, and the third phase SnS2 is introduced by a hydrothermal and ultrasonic composite method. SnS2/CQDs/g‐C3N4 composites with Z‐type heterojunction are successfully prepared. The results show that the SnS2/CQDs/g‐C3N4 has a 2D0D2D structure, which effectively inhibits the recombination of photogenerated electron–hole pairs, making the material have better photocatalytic degradation activity for Rhodamine B (RhB). When the mass ratio of SnS2 is 15%, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of RhB by the composite reaches the best, which is 87.8%. After four cycles, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency of the 15% SnS2/CQDs/g‐C3N4 composite still remains at 82.9%.
Electric and Magnetic Properties of Bi0.80Ba0.20FeO3‐Doped Ba0.85Ca0.15Ti0.90Zr0.10O3 Ceramics Prepared via the Solid‐State Combustion Technique
Authors: Thawong Pichittra , Prasertpalichat Sasipohn , Suriwong Tawat , Pinitsoontorn Supree , Vittayakorn Naratip , Pulphol Phieraya , Bongkarn Threerachai
Published: August 2022

Lead‐free (1−x)Ba0.85Ca0.15Ti0.90Zr0.10O3–xBi0.80Ba0.20FeO3 [(1−x)BCTZ–xBBF] ceramics, with BBF content (x) between 0 and 0.4, are prepared via the solid‐state combustion technique. The effect of BBF content on the phase formation, microstructure, and electric and magnetic properties of BCTZ is studied. From the Rietveld refinement analysis, the BCTZ ceramic shows coexisting orthorhombic and tetragonal phases, with a ratio of 35.4:64.6 and the percentage of the tetragonal phase continuously increases when x increases from 0.02 to 0.1, and becomes purely tetragonal at x ≥ 0.2. When x increases, the average grain size, density, and relative density continuously decrease while the unit cell volume enlarges. The dielectric constant at room temperature (εR) tends to decrease while the dielectric loss at room temperature (tan δR) increases with increased BBF content. For x = 0, a pure BCTZ ceramic, a well‐saturated P–E loop is observed with a polarization (Pr) and coercive field (Ec) of 8.94 μC cm−2 and 4.06 kV cm−1, respectively. The ferroelectricity drastically decreases with x = 0.02. For x ≥ 0.06, the leakage current increases, which suppresses the ferroelectricity. With no BBF content (x = 0), the ceramic has diamagnetic properties that change to paramagnetic properties with x = 0.02–0.06 and finally to ferromagnetic properties when the BBF increases between 0.10 and 0.40. For x = 0.10–0.40, the remnant magnetization (Mr) continuously increases.
A case of schwannoma at the origin of the right recurrent laryngeal nerve resected under uniportal video‐assisted thoracic surgery
Authors: Kamimura Go , Ueda Kazuhiro , Takeda Aya , Maeda Koki , Aoki Masaya , Sato Masami
Published: August 2022

Mediastinal neurogenic tumours are mostly derived from sympathetic nerves and intercostal nerves, and vagus nerve‐derived schwannomas are rare. We encountered a tumour originating from the origin of the recurrent laryngeal nerve that was accompanied by the azygos lobe, which made it difficult to approach; it was ultimately able to be removed via uniportal video‐assisted thoracic surgery. This case involved a 63‐year‐old female patient. There were no particular symptoms, but an abnormal chest shadow was noted on an imaging examination. Chest imaging revealed a smooth‐surfaced mass in the upper right mediastinum with the azygos lobe. A diagnosis of schwannoma was made by imaging, and the patient underwent resection via uniportal video‐assisted thoracic surgery. The tumour, which originated from the origin of the right recurrent laryngeal nerve, was sharply removed without causing recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy.
Photocatalytic Methane Conversion to C1 Oxygenates over Palladium and Oxygen Vacancies Co‐Decorated TiO2
Authors: Gong Zhuyu , Luo Lei , Wang Chao , Tang Junwang
Published: August 2022

Direct methane conversion to value‐added chemicals through photocatalysis is promising but still has great challenges in both efficient activation of C–H bonds and suppression of over‐oxidation. Herein, palladium nanoparticles and oxygen vacancies (OVs) co‐modified TiO2 photocatalysts are prepared and employed for photocatalytic CH4 conversion at room temperature. Under optimized conditions with O2 and water as the oxidants, a high yield of liquid oxygenates, e.g., 54 693 μmol g−1 h−1 with a nearly 100% selectivity has been achieved. Mechanism investigations reveal that Pd and OVs synergistically promote charge separation, with Pd and OVs acting as hole and electron acceptors, respectively. Isotopic experiments elucidate that both H2O and O2 are oxygen sources for oxygenate production, where O2 is the predominant one.
Molecular insights on the conflicting generic boundaries in the Carduncellus‐Carthamus complex (Compositae)
Authors: Vilatersana Roser , Calleja Juan Antonio , Herrando‐Moraira Sonia , Garcia‐Jacas Núria , Susanna Alfonso
Published: August 2022

The Carthamus‐Carduncellus complex is formed by approximately 50 taxa that are widely distributed throughout the Mediterranean basin and western Asia. The generic delineation of this complex has always been controversial. Currently, there are three widely diverging taxonomical proposals, suggesting that the complex is formed by (1) a single genus, Carthamus; (2) two genera, Carduncellus and Carthamus; and (3) four genera, Carduncellus, Carthamus, Femeniasia, and Phonus. The generic classification has varied depending on the importance assigned to some morphological characters, i.e., the morphology/structure of pappus, achenes, and involucral bracts. All these generic changes have complicated the nomenclature of the complex, leading to species wandering between four different genera. To objectively assess the taxonomic delimitation of this complex, we carried out phylogenetic analyses using nuclear (external and internal transcribed spacers of rDNA) and plastid (ndhF, trnH, rpl32, trnT) data, as well as multispecies coalescent model analyses on near‐complete sampling. Phylogenetic reconstructions resolved two monophyletic groups, Carthamus s.str. and Carduncellus s.l. Within the latter, some groups could be differentiated, such as the monophyletic genus Phonus and the monospecific Femeniasia. Our multispecies coalescent analyses strongly support a classification based on four genera in the complex Carthamus‐Carduncellus. In contrast, classifications based on only one or two genera lack relevant support. However, the absence of synapomorphic morphological characters that define the Carduncellus lineage (Carduncellus, Phonus, Femeniasia), and the possible hybridization in the ancestral lineages detected by incongruences between plastid and nuclear markers make it difficult to define clear generic boundaries. We propose maintaining the hypothesis of four genera, which was the first classification supported by molecular evidence, pending a broader study (both molecular and morphological) to reach a more definitive delineation and avoid more unfounded generic changes.