bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid Ginseng‐derived Extracellular Vesicles‐Like Particles with Autologous Tumor Cell Membrane for Personalized Vaccination to Inhibit Tumor Recurrence and Metastasis
Authors: Wang Haoran , Mu Jiankang , Chen Yexing , Liu Yali , Li Xianghui , Li Hao , Cao Peng
Published: February 2024

Personalized cancer vaccines based on resected tumors from patients is promising to address tumor heterogeneity to inhibit tumor recurrence or metastasis. However, it remains challenge to elicit immune activation due to the weak immunogenicity of autologous tumor antigens. Here, a hybrid membrane cancer vaccine is successfully constructed by membrane fusion to enhance adaptive immune response and amplify personalized immunotherapy, which formed a codelivery system for autologous tumor antigens and immune adjuvants. Briefly, the functional hybrid vesicles (HM‐NPs) are formed by hybridizing ginseng‐derived extracellular vesicles‐like particles (G‐EVLPs) with the membrane originated from the resected autologous tumors. The introduction of G‐EVLPs can enhance the phagocytosis of autologous tumor antigens by dendritic cells (DCs) and facilitate DCs maturation through TLR4, ultimately activating tumor‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). HM‐NPs can indeed strengthen specific immune responses to suppress tumors recurrence and metastasis including subcutaneous tumors and orthotopic tumors. Furthermore, a long‐term immune protection can be obtained after vaccinating with HM‐NPs, and prolonging the survival of animals. Overall, this personalized hybrid autologous tumor vaccine based on G‐EVLPs provides the possibility of mitigating tumor recurrence and metastasis after surgery while maintaining good biocompatibility.
Microporous Sulfur–Carbon Materials with Extended Sodium Storage Window
Authors: Eren Enis Oğuzhan , Esen Cansu , Scoppola Ernesto , Song Zihan , Senokos Evgeny , Zschiesche Hannes , Cruz Daniel , Lauermann Iver , Tarakina Nadezda V. , Kumru Barış , Antonietti Markus , Giusto Paolo
Published: February 2024

Developing high‐performance carbonaceous anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) is still a grand quest for a more sustainable future of energy storage. Introducing sulfur within a carbon framework is one of the most promising attempts toward the development of highly efficient anode materials. Herein, a microporous sulfur‐rich carbon anode obtained from a liquid sulfur‐containing oligomer is introduced. The sodium storage mechanism shifts from surface‐controlled to diffusion‐controlled at higher synthesis temperatures. The different storage mechanisms and electrode performances are found to be independent of the bare electrode material's interplanar spacing. Therefore, these differences are attributed to an increased microporosity and a thiophene‐rich chemical environment. The combination of these properties enables extending the plateau region to higher potential and achieving reversible overpotential sodium storage. Moreover, in‐operando small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) reveals reversible electron density variations within the pore structure, in good agreement with the pore‐filling sodium storage mechanism occurring in hard carbons (HCs). Eventually, the depicted framework will enable the design of high‐performance anode materials for sodium‐ion batteries with competitive energy density.
Superflexible and Stretchable Ferroelectric Memory on a Biocompatible Platform
Authors: Chouprik Anastasia , Mikheev Vitalii , Margolin Ilya , Kalika Elizaveta , Spiridonov Maxim , Negrov Dmitrii
Published: February 2024

Next‐generation flexible electronics for healthcare applications require biocompatible flexible non‐volatile memory for data storage. Ultra‐thin ferroelectric hafnium oxide films offer great potential for flexible memories due to their potential flexibility and perfect compatibility with modern technologies. This study presents ultra‐flexible and stretchable memory devices based on 10‐nm‐thick Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 film fabricated by an innovative technology involving encapsulation of the devices in a biocompatible organic package. They exhibit high memory functionality (remanent polarization of 27 µC cm−2) and withstand extreme mechanical conditions, including folding in half, multiple bending up to 150 000 bending cycles as well as tension with loads up to 1.5 kg. Further, flexible devices are employed as a platform to elucidate the fundamental role of mechanical stress in ferroelectricity of hafnia both experimentally and theoretically. Direct in situ experiment demonstrates that in‐plane tension causes changes in spontaneous polarization, coercive voltage, permittivity, and conductivity. First‐principle calculations explain the role of mechanical stress in ferroelectric and dielectric properties of hafnia. In applications, this work establishes a foundation for the implementation of biocompatible, high‐performance flexible ferroelectric memory, and in the field of ferroelectric materials fundamentals, it provides insight into the critical role of the residual mechanical stress that is inevitably present in thin films.
Negative Correlation Between Thermal and Electrical Conductivity in Epsilon‐Negative Nanocomposites
Authors: Wei Zaixin , Liu Yao , Zhang Yan , Aleksanteri Kallioniemi Leevi , Qi Xiangru , Zhang Zidong , Wang Zhongyang , Gao Weibo , Fan Runhua
Published: February 2024

Epsilon‐negative materials (ENMs) hold promise for the advancement of the next generation of electronic devices. Most epsilon‐negative materials strongly correlate with metal properties, which limits their applications in electronic packaging. Instead, achieving a negative permittivity in the insulating state is expected to show the decoupling of electrical and thermal conductivities, and experimental demonstration of this behavior is lacking. In this study, multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)@polydopamine (PDA)‐silver/polyimide (PI) nanocomposites are engineered to achieve weakly negative permittivity, which is attributed to the localized plasma oscillations. The PDA layer and nano‐Ag are exploited to confine electrons with MWCNTs for improving energy transport while perturbing directional current, thereby realizing high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity. This work provides insights into the fundamental nature of heat and charge transport in epsilon‐negative systems.
Solar‐Driven Hydrogen Evolution from Value‐Added Waste Treatment
Authors: Yu Shan , Li Yi , Jiang Anqiang , Chen Yijiang , Duan Yuangang , Ye Jiale , Zhou Ying
Published: February 2024

Hydrogen is one of the most important energy alternatives to conventional fossil‐based fuel. Solar energy based photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) is a salient approach to produce hydrogen fuel but its efficiency is generally limited by the sluggish and energy‐unfavorable oxidation reaction. Meanwhile, waste treatment has become a worldwide problem and clean treatment is highly demanded to avoid the vast greenhouse emission currently. Inspiringly, PHE can be effectively coupled with the favorable photooxidation of many wastes, which kills two birds with one stone. In this review, the recent progress in PHE coupled with waste treatment is presented, where typical solid, liquid, and gas wastes have been briefly discussed. Focusing on the understanding of complicated reaction mechanism and the revelation of oxidation products, the cutting‐edge techniques for photophysics and surface chemistry characterization have been analyzed, which are imperative to facilitate the following investigation. Finally, the developing trend and existing issues in current research are also discussed in detail so that a holistic blueprint of PHE coupled with waste treatment can be portrayed to accelerate their application in a realistic world.
Topological Heusler Magnets‐Driven High‐Performance Transverse Nernst Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Chen Mengzhao , Wang Jialu , Liu Kai , Fan Wusheng , Sun Yan , Felser Claudia , Zhu Tiejun , Fu Chenguang
Published: February 2024

Topological magnets (TMs) with the coupled topology of electronic band structures and spin configuration have exhibited exotic transport properties that are overwhelmingly appealing for transverse thermoelectric applications. Despite the continuous discovery of TMs in recent years, the development of Nernst generators has much lagged. Here, high‐performance Nernst generators are developed utilizing polycrystalline topological Heusler bulk magnets. Benefiting from the robustness of topological effect to grain boundary scattering, polycrystalline Co2MnGa is found to exhibit a large Nernst thermopower of ≈6.5 µV K−1 at 300 K, which is comparable to the previously reported record value in its single crystal. The developed Nernst generators thereby exhibit excellent performance with an output voltage of 5.4 mV and power of 14.3 µW, significantly higher than that of Nernst thermopiles assembled using conventional ferromagnets. These results pave the way to advancing TMs with intrinsically large Berry curvature for transverse thermoelectric applications.
Promoting healthy diets through food reformulation: The demand for “better‐for‐you” beverage
Authors: Zhou Pei , Liu Yizao
Published: February 2024

This study explores how nutrients, new ingredients, and health claims from product reformulation influence consumer decisions, dietary intake, and population health in the beverage market. We focus on the beverage market in the United States as a case study because of the emerging health demand for “better‐for‐you” beverage options. We formulate a random coefficient discrete choice model to evaluate consumer preference for reformulated products in the nonalcoholic beverages market. We find that new ingredients that provide functionality such as energy ingredients, carbonation, or no artificial flavors have a significant positive impact on consumer choices. Further, the use of health claims can significantly increase consumer demand for beverages. Results from simulations suggest that the use of “no/low sugar,” “no/low sodium,” and “no artificial sweetener” health claims will increase the net sugar and sodium intakes from sugar‐sweetened beverages, leading to an increase in body mass index and the incidence of coronary heart disease (CHD) and diabetes. The nutrient reformulation by cutting sugar and sodium content by 10%, on the other hand, will result in a decrease in sugar and sodium consumption, and further lower the incidence of CHD and stroke. However, the policy aimed at lowering the intake of one single nutrient may have an unintended spillover effect on other nutrient intakes, and policymakers should take a comprehensive approach and consider the broader nutrient impact of any policy aimed at reducing a specific nutrient.
Arabidopsis response to copper is mediated by density and root exudates: Evidence that plant density and toxic soils can shape plant communities
Authors: Dingus Abigail , Roslund Marja I. , Brauner Soren , Sinkkonen Aki , Weidenhamer Jeffrey D.
Published: February 2024

Premise

Plants grown at high densities show increased tolerance to heavy metals for reasons that are not clear. A potential explanation is the release of citrate by plant roots, which binds metals and prevents uptake. Thus, pooled exudates at high plant densities might increase tolerance. We tested this exclusion facilitation hypothesis using mutants of Arabidopsis thaliana defective in citrate exudation.

Methods

Wild type Arabidopsis and two allelic mutants for the Ferric Reductase Defective 3 (FRD3) gene were grown at four densities and watered with copper sulfate at four concentrations. Plants were harvested before bolting and dried. Shoot biomass was measured, and shoot material and soil were digested in nitric acid. Copper contents were determined by atomic absorption.

Results

In the highest‐copper treatment, density‐dependent reduction in toxicity was observed in the wild type but not in FRD3 mutants. For both mutants, copper concentrations per gram biomass were up to seven times higher than for wild type plants, depending on density and copper treatment. In all genotypes, total copper accumulation was greater at higher plant densities. Plant size variation increased with density and copper treatment because of heterogeneous distribution of copper throughout the soil.

Conclusions

These results support the hypothesis that citrate exudation is responsible for density‐dependent reductions in toxicity of metals. Density‐dependent copper uptake and growth in contaminated soils underscores the importance of density in ecotoxicological testing. In soils with a heterogeneous distribution of contaminants, competition for nontoxic soil regions may drive size hierarchies and determine competitive outcomes.
A case report on deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 with relapse–remission course and analysis of genotype–phenotype correlation
Authors: Cai Qianyun , Feng Fan , Tian Yanmei , Luo Rong , Mu Dezhi , Yang Fan , Yang Zuozhen , Zhou Zhongjie
Published: February 2024

Deficiency of adenosine deaminase 2 (DADA2) is a monogenic disease caused by biallelic mutations in adenosine deaminase 2 (ADA2). The varying phenotypes of the disease often lead to delayed diagnosis or misdiagnosis. We report an 11‐year‐old boy with DADA2 and provide a preliminary analysis of genotype–phenotype correlation. The age of onset of the disease was 8 years old. The disease successively involved the brainstem, muscles, joints, and cerebrum. After three relapse–remission episodes over 3 years, the patient was finally diagnosed with DADA2 by whole‐exome sequencing. Compound heterozygous variants in the ADA2 gene (NM_001282225.2: c.1072G>A, p.Gly358Arg; c.419dupC, p.Arg141Lysfs*37) were found in the patient. He did not receive anti‐TNF therapy and had no relapse after a 8‐month follow‐up. We identified a novel variant of the ADA2 gene, and the associated disease course may follow a relapse–remission pattern. Homozygous mutations of p.Gly358Arg can cause pure red cell aplasia, whereas compound heterozygous variations may lead to different phenotypes. Variants in the catalytic domain and frameshift mutations may also cause relatively benign phenotypes besides causing hematological disorders. Further studies are needed to clarify the genotypic–phenotypic relationship of this disease.
Lewy body pathology modifies risk factors for cerebral amyloid angiopathy when comorbid with Alzheimer's disease pathology
Authors: Pillai Jagan A. , Bena James , Tousi Babak , Rothenberg Kasia , Keene C. Dirk , Leverenz James B.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) often accompanies dementia‐associated pathologies and is important in the context of anti‐amyloid monoclonal therapies and risk of hemorrhage.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective neuropathology‐confirmed study of 2384 participants in the National Alzheimer Coordinating Center cohort (Alzheimer's disease [AD], n = 1175; Lewy body pathology [LBP], n = 316; and mixed AD and LBP [AD‐LBP], n = 893). We used logistic regression to evaluate age, sex, education, APOE ε4, neuritic plaques, and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) in CAA risk.

RESULTS

APOE ε4 increased CAA risk in all three groups, while younger age and higher NFT stages increased risk in AD and AD‐LBP. In AD‐LBP, male sex and lower education were additional risk factors. The odds of APOE ε4 carrier homozygosity related to CAA was higher in LBP (25.69) and AD‐LBP (9.50) than AD (3.17).

DISCUSSION

AD and LBPs modify risk factors for CAA and should be considered in reviewing the risk of CAA.

Highlights

Lewy body pathology modifies risk factors for cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) when present along with Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology.

In the context of anti‐amyloid monoclonal therapies and their associated risks for hemorrhage, the risk of underlying CAA in mixed dementia with Lewy body pathology needs to be considered.
Energy‐Efficient Electrosynthesis of High Value‐Added Active Chlorine Coupled with H2 Generation from Direct Seawater Electrolysis through Decoupling Electrolytes
Authors: Zhu Wenxin , Wei Ziyi , Ma Yiyue , Ren Meirong , Fu Xue , Li Min , Zhang Chunling , Wang Jianlong , Guo Shaojun
Published: February 2024

Direct saline (seawater) electrolysis is a well‐recognized system to generate active chlorine species for the chloride‐mediated electrosynthesis, environmental remediation and sterilization over the past few decades. However, the large energy consumption originated from the high cell voltage of traditional direct saline electrolysis system, greatly restricts its practical application. Here, we report an acid‐saline hybrid electrolysis system for energy‐saving co‐electrosynthesis of active chlorine and H2. We demonstrate that this system just requires a low cell voltage of 1.59 V to attain 10 mA cm−2 with a large energy consumption decrease of 27.7 % compared to direct saline electrolysis system (2.20 V). We further demonstrate that such acid‐saline hybrid electrolysis system could be extended to realize energy‐saving and sustainable seawater electrolysis. The acidified seawater in this system can absolutely avoid the formation of Ca/Mg‐based sediments that always form in the seawater electrolysis system. We also prove that this system in the half‐flow mode can realize real‐time preparation of active chlorine used for sterilization and pea sprout production.
Synthesis of N‐Difluoromethyl Carbonyl Compounds from N‐Difluoromethylcarbamoyl Fluorides
Authors: Hu Chunyang , Jiang Lvqi , Guo Zihao , Mumtaz Yasir , Liu Jie , Qin Jiarong , Chen Yixing , Lin Zhongquan , Yi Wenbin
Published: February 2024

Fluorinated small molecules are commonly used in functional small‐molecule chemistry, and N‐difluoromethyl (N‐CF2H) compounds are particularly intriguing due to their unique and unexplored physiochemical properties. However, despite limited progress, a general methodological approach to the synthesis of N‐CF2H compounds remains elusive. Here, guided by computation, we present a simple and practical protocol to access N‐CF2H amides and related carbonyl derivatives. The protocol involves a one‐pot conversion of thioformamides through desulfurization‐fluorination and acylation, providing N‐difluoromethylcarbamoyl fluoride building blocks that can be further diversified to a variety of unexplored N‐CF2H carbonyl compounds with rich functionality. Additionally, preliminary studies on their properties and stability showcased their potential application in pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Giant Negative Thermal Expansion in Ultralight NaB(CN)4
Authors: Gao Qilong , Jiao Yixin , Sun Qiang , Sprenger Jan A. P. , Finze Maik , Sanson Andrea , Liang Erjun , Xing Xianran , Chen Jun
Published: February 2024

Negative thermal expansion (NTE) is crucial for controlling the thermomechanical properties of functional materials, albeit being relatively rare. This study reports a giant NTE (αV∼−9.2 ⋅ 10−5 K−1, 100–200 K; αV∼−3.7 ⋅ 10−5 K−1, 200–650 K) observed in NaB(CN)4, showcasing interesting ultralight properties. A comprehensive investigation involving synchrotron X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, and first‐principles calculations has been conducted to explore the thermal expansion mechanism. The findings indicate that the low‐frequency phonon modes play a primary role in NTE, and non‐rigid vibration modes with most negative Grüneisen parameters are the key contributing factor to the giant NTE observed in NaB(CN)4. This work presents a new material with giant NTE and ultralight mass density, providing insights for the understanding and design of novel NTE materials.
Impact of grey energy on optimal wall insulation thickness
Authors: Delmonte Branca , Latz Sebastian , Youmbi Jules , Maas Stefan
Published: February 2024

For decades efforts have been made to reduce the greenhouse gases emissions of buildings by reducing their energy demand with governmental regulations in Europe, pushing towards very low thermal transmittances (U‐values) with ever thicker insulation layers for new buildings. However, there is no linear relationship between the insulation thickness and the heat losses. Therefore, above a certain thickness the consumption of buildings does not decrease significantly. Hereafter a life cycle analysis, including emissions before the building becomes operational is applied to evaluate the impact of the increasing thickness of components on the overall emissions. Publicly available product data sheets are used to compare four insulation materials under three scenarios. These analyses yield interesting results showing that energy‐intensive insulation materials lead to a negative impact in the overall energy balance after a certain thickness. Even though there is not always a pronounced optimum insulation thickness, it is logical that further reductions in U‐value for new buildings should hence be carefully evaluated. The results show that the optimal thickness is around 20 cm for most materials, while the important major savings come from the first 10 cm.
Enabling the use of lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide as electrolyte salt for Li‐ion batteries based on silicon anodes and Li(Ni0.4Co0.4Mn0.2)O2 cathodes by salt additives
Authors: Asheim K. , Holsen I. F. , Renmann V. , Blanco M. V. , Vullum P. E. , Wagner N. P. , Mæhlen J.P. , Svensson A. M.
Published: February 2024

Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) is a promising alternative salt for Li‐ion batteries. Unlike the conventional LiPF6, it is not prone to HF formation, and thus resistant to moisture. However, for cell voltages relevant for high energy cathodes (>4.2 V), the aluminium current collector will corrode in electrolytes based on this salt, and mitigation strategies are needed. Here, the use of Lithium tetrafluoroborate (LiBF4) and Lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) salts as additives is investigated, in order to enable the use of LiFSI‐based electrolytes. The performance of the electrolytes is evaluated separately for high content silicon anodes,
(NMC442) cathodes and the aluminium current collector by electrochemical methods and post mortem analysis by SEM imaging and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Electrolytes with LiDFOB as additive showed the best performance for all components, and were therefore selected for cycling in full cells, composed of silicon anodes and NMC442. Results show that LiFSI‐based electrolytes with LiDFOB additive has an electrochemical performance similar to conventional electrolytes, and is thus a competitive, alternative electrolyte with a low fluorine content. Furthermore, it is verified that the good SEI forming properties of LiFSI based electrolytes known from cycling in half cells, is also preserved during cycling in full cells
Selective hydrophobic interaction chromatography for high purity of supercoiled DNA plasmids
Authors: Božič Klemen , Sedlar Ajda , Kralj Špela , Černigoj Urh , Štrancar Aleš , Sekirnik Rok
Published: February 2024

High purity of plasmid DNA (pDNA), particularly in supercoiled isoform (SC), is used for various biopharmaceutical applications, such as a transfecting agent for production of gene therapy viral vectors, for pDNA vaccines, or as a precursor for linearized form that serves as a template for mRNA synthesis. In clinical manufacturing, pDNA is commonly extracted from Escherichia coli cells with alkaline lysis followed by anion exchange chromatography or tangential flow filtration as a capture step for pDNA. Both methods remove a high degree of host cell contaminants but are unable to generically discriminate between SC and open‐circular (OC) pDNA isoforms, as well as other DNA impurities, such as genomic DNA (gDNA). Hydrophobic interaction chromatography (HIC) is commonly used as polishing purification for pDNA. We developed HIC‐based polishing purification methodology that is highly selective for enrichment of SC pDNA. It is generic with respect to plasmid size, scalable, and GMP compatible. The technique uses ammonium sulfate, a kosmotropic salt, at a concentration selective for SC pDNA binding to a butyl monolith column, while OC pDNA and gDNA are removed in flow‐through. The approach is validated on multiple adeno‐associated virus‐ and mRNA‐encoding plasmids ranging from 3 to 12 kbp. We show good scalability to at least 300 mg of >95% SC pDNA, thus paving the way to increase the quality of genomic medicines that utilize pDNA as a key raw material.
Climate‐neutral labeling for climate‐friendly vs. climate‐harmful food products: Consumer perceptions and implications
Authors: Stremmel Gesa , Elshiewy Ossama , Boztug Yasemin
Published: February 2024

Given the increasing prevalence of climate‐neutral labeled products in the actual marketplace, this study analyzes the impact of climate‐neutral labeling on consumer perceptions and purchase propensity. Only for climate‐harmful products we found that climate‐neutral labeling alters product perceptions and purchase propensity (while not for climate‐friendly products). For climate‐harmful products, a climate‐neutral label leads consumers to value the objective contribution to climate protection associated with the label but also evokes various biased inferences (i.e., the product is perceived to [1] be less resource intensive, [2] use fewer chemicals and pesticides during agricultural production, and [3] be superior regarding ethical product benefits like fair trade and animal welfare). We also found that a more transparent labeling practice, which provides additional information of the label scope, reduces the biased inferences (1–2) or even avoids them (3).
Practice these recommendations to get promoted
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: February 2024

I’m a ponderer, so I’ve had plenty of time to contemplate my career since I retired five years ago. I’ve identified many mistakes I made throughout the years, and many things I did right. My higher education career started out with a job in college recruitment and ended with a job as a chief academic officer. I fulfilled my career goal. It was very satisfying. I had the opportunity to be promoted from within, and to be promoted by changing institutions.
Review recent rulings involving student‐athletes and sexual misconduct
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2024

An overview of the key topics faced by college athletics administrators with citations to noteworthy cases, statutes, regulations, and additional sources.
Combretum micranthum G. Don (Combretaceae): A Review on Traditional Uses, Phytochemistry, Pharmacology and Toxicology
Authors: Tine Yoro , Sene Madieye , Gaye Cheikhouna , Diallo Alioune , Ndiaye Benjamin , Ndoye Idrissa , Wele Alassane
Published: February 2024

Combretum micranthum (Combretaceae) is a medicinal plant widely known and used in Africa to treat a variety of conditions such as diabetes, fever, coughs, bronchitis, diarrhea, pain, malaria and liver disorders, among others. Due to its wide traditional use, in this review, published scientific reports on its composition and pharmacological properties were explored by conducting a literature search of databases. To date, 155 organic compounds including 34 flavonoids, 16 phenolic acids, 14 alkaloids, 15 fatty acids, 14 terpenoids/steroids, 24 amino acids, 8 carbohydrate substances and 30 other organic compounds have been identified from this plant. In addition to these organic compounds, 6 minerals (potassium nitrate, calcium, magnesium, potassium, sodium, iron and zinc) have also been reported. In vitro and in vivo studies have shown that these phytochemicals and plant extracts have a wide range of pharmacological potential, including antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, antihypertensive, nephroprotective, hepatoprotective, anxiolytic, anti‐cholinesterase and antidiarrheal activities. Additionally, no harmful effects have been revealed through studies. Thus, this study could constitute a valuable reference for the valorization of C. micranthum in the pharmaceutical industry.
Methylation of Phenyl Rings in Ester‐Stabilized Phosphorus Ylides Vastly Enhances Their Protonophoric Activity
Authors: Rokitskaya Tatyana I. , Kirsanov Roman S. , Khailova Ljudmila S. , Panteleeva Alisa A. , Lyamzaev Konstantin G. , Korshunova Galina A. , Kotova Elena A. , Antonenko Yuri N.
Published: February 2024

We have recently discovered that ester‐stabilized phosphorus ylides, resulting from deprotonation of a phosphonium salt such as [Ph3PCH2COOR], can transfer protons across artificial and biological membranes. To create more effective cationic protonophores, we synthesized similar phosphonium salts with one ((heptyloxycarbonylmethyl)(p‐tolyl)bromide) or two ((butyloxycarbonylmethyl)(3,5‐xylyl)osphonium bromide) methyl substituents in the phenyl groups. The methylation enormously augmented both protonophoric activity of the ylides on planar bilayer lipid membrane (BLM) and uncoupling of mammalian mitochondria, which correlated with strongly accelerated flip‐flop of their cationic precursors across the BLM.
A functional bread produced by supplementing wheat flour with high β‐glucan hull‐less barley flour
Authors: Koksel Hamit , Cetiner Buket , Ozkan Kubra , Tekin‐Cakmak Zeynep Hazal , Sagdic Osman , Sestili Francesco , Jilal Abderrazek
Published: February 2024

Background and Objectives

High β‐glucan hull‐less barley (cv. Chifaa) was used in functional bread production. Its technological and nutritional properties were compared with the one produced from bread wheat flour.

Findings

Increasing levels of whole barley flour supplementation resulted in consistent increases in the Farinograph water absorption due to the high hydration capacity of β‐glucan in barley flour. Increasing whole barley flour supplementation levels had significant deteriorative effects on all of the bread quality characteristics probably due to dilution of gluten proteins. On the contrary, the mineral, β‐glucan, and phenolic contents and antioxidant capacities of breads supplemented with Chifaa were significantly higher than those of the bread produced from bread wheat.

Conclusion

The glycemic index (GI) of the bread supplemented with 60% barley flour (66.4) was medium while the GI of the 45% barley flour‐supplemented bread (70.1) was very close to the limit value of the medium GI. The lower GI of the barley flour‐supplemented breads might be attributed to their higher β‐glucan contents. The results indicated that 3 g of β‐glucan can be provided from barley flour‐supplemented bread (at 45% and 60%), which is the limit to bear health claim.

Significance and Novelty

The results of the present study indicated that high β‐glucan hull‐less barley can be used to produce functional breads with better nutritional properties. The findings of this study may provide insights that can contribute to the studies on functional foods.
Supervision of counselor trainees in integrated behavioral health settings
Authors: Giresunlu Yesim , Kemer Gulsah , Akpinar‐Elci Muge
Published: February 2024

We pursued an understanding of 21 site supervisors’ perspectives on the focus of counseling supervision in integrated behavioral health settings. Presenting organizational and clinical viewpoints, site supervisors reported mentoring supervisees on administrative and interdisciplinary work along with process‐oriented supervision practices.
A Guide for Mono‐Selective N‐Methylation, N‐Ethylation, and N‐n‐Propylation of Primary Amines, Amides, and Sulfonamides and Their Applicability in Late‐Stage Modification
Authors: Templ Johanna , Schnürch Michael
Published: February 2024

This review provides a comprehensive overview of mono‐alkylation methodologies targeting crucial nitrogen moieties – amines, amides, and sulfonamides – found in organic building blocks and pharmaceuticals. Emphasizing the intersection of chemical precision with drug discovery, the central challenge addressed is achieving one‐pot mono‐selective short‐chain N‐alkylations (methylations, ethylations, and n‐propylations), preventing undesired overalkylation. Additionally, sustainable, safe, and benign alternatives to traditional alkylating agents, including alcohols, carbon dioxide, carboxylic acids, nitriles, alkyl phosphates, quaternary ammonium salts, and alkyl carbonates, are explored. This review, categorized by the nature of the alkylating agent, aids researchers in selecting suitable methods for mono‐selective N‐alkylation.
A global perspective on stepping down chronic spontaneous urticaria treatment: Results of the Urticaria Centers of Reference and Excellence SDown‐CSU study
Authors: Türk Murat , Kocatürk Emek , Ertaş Ragıp , Ensina Luis Felipe , Mariel Ferrucci Silvia , Grattan Clive , Vestergaard Christian , Zuberbier Torsten , Maurer Marcus , Giménez‐Arnau Ana Maria
Published: February 2024

Background

Although there have been significant advances in the treatment of chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) in recent years, there remains a lack of clear guidance on when and how to step down treatment in responders. This study aims to investigate stepping down approaches of different steps of CSU treatment from a global perspective.

Methods

“Stepping down chronic spontaneous urticaria treatment” (SDown‐CSU) is an international, multicenter, observational, cross‐sectional, survey‐based study of the Urticaria Centers of Reference and Excellence (UCARE) network. The questionnaire included 48 questions completed by physicians in the UCARE network.

Results

Surveys completed by 103 physicians from 81 UCAREs and 34 countries were analyzed. Seventy‐eight percent of the participants responded that they had a national urticaria management guideline written by their professional societies and 28% responded that they had to operate under a regulatory guideline proposed by central health funding organizations. Seventy‐two and 58.7% of these national recommendations do not contain any detailed information on when and/or how CSU treatment should be discontinued. There was a lack of detailed information on antihistamines and cyclosporine in particular. A predefined maximum duration was generally not applicable to omalizumab and cyclosporine (81% and 82%, respectively). Nearly all UCAREs step down omalizumab within 6 months from the first controlled status and 42% discontinue cyclosporine after 6 months regardless of the control status.

Conclusions

The findings from the SDown‐CSU study clearly highlight a global need for guidance on the process of stepping down treatment in CSU. Additionally, the study offers a step‐down algorithm applicable to all stages of CSU treatment.
Meta‐analysis of microarray data to determine gene indicators involved in cisplatin resistance in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sheikhshabani Somayeh Hashemi , Modarres Paratoo , Ghafouri‐Fard Soudeh , Amini‐Farsani Zeinab , Khodaee Lavin , Shaygan Nasibeh , Amini‐Farsani Zahra , Omrani Mir Davood
Published: February 2024

Background

Lung cancer is a major cause of cancer‐related mortality worldwide, with a 5‐year survival rate of approximately 22%. Cisplatin is one of the standard first‐line chemotherapeutic agents for non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), but its efficacy is often limited by the development of resistance. Despite extensive research on the molecular mechanisms of chemoresistance, the underlying causes remain elusive and complex.

Aims

We analyzed three microarray datasets to find the gene signature and key pathways related to cisplatin resistance in NSCLC.

Methods and Results

We compared the gene expression of sensitive and resistant NSCLC cell lines treated with cisplatin. We found 274 DEGs, including 111 upregulated and 163 downregulated genes, in the resistant group. Gene set enrichment analysis showed the potential roles of several DEGs, such as TUBB2B, MAPK7, TUBAL3, MAP2K5, SMUG1, NTHL1, PARP3, NTRK1, G6PD, PDK1, HEY1, YTHDF2, CD274, and MAGEA1, in cisplatin resistance. Functional analysis revealed the involvement of pathways, such as gap junction, base excision repair, central carbon metabolism, and Notch signaling in the resistant cell lines.

Conclusion

We identified several molecular factors that contribute to cisplatin resistance in NSCLC cell lines, involving genes and pathways that regulate gap junction communication, DNA damage repair, ROS balance, EMT induction, and stemness maintenance. These genes and pathways could be targets for future studies to overcome cisplatin resistance in NSCLC.
Correlates of supportive care needs among Asian Americans with colorectal, liver, or lung cancer from a web‐based patient navigation portal intervention: The Patient COUNTS study
Authors: Wang Katarina , Chu Janet N. , Oh Debora L. , Shariff‐Marco Salma , Allen Laura , Kuo Mei‐Chin , Wong Ching , Bui Hoan , Chen Junlin , Li Feng Ming , Ma Carmen , Truong Angeline , Gomez Scarlett L. , Nguyen Tung T. , Tsoh Janice Y.
Published: February 2024

Background

Cancer is the leading cause of death among Asian Americans, who often face barriers to cancer care. Cancer supportive care needs among Asian Americans remain understudied.

Aims

We examined cancer supportive care needs and participant factors correlated with these needs, identified profiles of supportive care needs, and examined whether needs profiles are associated with quality of life among Asian American adults.

Methods and Results

We recruited 47 Asian American adults with colorectal, liver, or lung cancer who spoke Chinese, English, or Vietnamese, and were starting or undergoing cancer treatment. We assessed cancer supportive care needs in four domains: cancer information, daily living, behavioral health, and language assistance. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to identify clusters of participants based on their supportive need profiles to further examine the association between need profiles and quality of life (QoL) assessed by the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy.

Participants (mean age = 57.6) included 72% males and 62% spoke English less than very well. Older participants (age ≥ 65) and those with annual income <$50K reported higher daily living needs. Men and younger participants (age < 50) reported higher behavioral health needs. We found three clusters displaying distinct cancer supportive need profiles: Cluster 1 (28% of the sample) displayed high needs across all domains; Cluster 2 (51%) had low needs across all domains; and Cluster 3 (21%) had high needs for cancer information and daily living. Cluster 1 participants reported the lowest QoL.

Conclusion

Cancer supportive care needs among Asian American patients with colorectal, liver, and lung cancer were associated with patient characteristics and QoL. Understanding cancer supportive care needs will inform future interventions to improve care and QoL for Asian American patients with cancer. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03867916.
An assessment of survival outcomes among ovarian cancer patients at the National and Referral Hospital in Kenya
Authors: Mayenga Diana Bironga , Degu Amsalu
Published: February 2024

Background

Ovarian cancer has been shown to have poor survival outcomes attributed to late presentation. In Kenya, information on the survival outcomes of ovarian cancer patients is scarce. Therefore, the objective of this study was to examine the survival outcomes among patients with ovarian cancer treated at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH).

Aims

A hospital‐based retrospective cohort study was performed at KNH to examine the survival outcomes of 112 ovarian cancer patients. The study employed a structured data abstraction tool to acquire patients' relevant socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics from the patient's medical records. The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS version 29.0 statistical software. Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to determine the survival outcome and predictors of mortality among ovarian cancer patients, respectively.

Methods and results

The mean age of the patients in this study was 51.28 ± 14.24 years. Most patients (59.8%) had evidence of distant metastasis during the follow‐up period. One‐third (33%) of patients were deceased. The mean‐cancer‐specific survival time among the study participants was 40.0 ± 3.0 months. The 5‐year survival rate was 44%, with most patients experiencing disease progression during the last follow‐up. Combination therapy (p < .001) was the only statistically significant predictor of mortality in ovarian cancer patients.

Conclusion

The study found that the 5‐year survival rate among ovarian cancer patients was poor, with most patients experiencing disease progression during the last follow‐up period.
Impaired monocyte‐derived dendritic cell phenotype in prostate cancer patients: A phenotypic comparison with healthy donors
Authors: Bakhshi Parisa , Nourizadeh Maryam , Sharifi Laleh , Nowroozi Mohammad R. , Mohsenzadegan Monireh , Farajollahi Mohammad M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Dendritic cells (DCs) play a crucial role in immunity. Research on monocyte‐derived DCs (Mo‐DCs) cancer vaccines is in progress despite limited success in clinical trials. This study focuses on Mo‐DCs generated from prostate cancer (PCA) patients, comparing them with DCs from healthy donors (HD‐DCs).

Methods

Mo‐DCs were isolated from PCA patient samples, and their phenotype was compared to HD‐DCs. Key parameters included monocyte count, CD14 expression, and the levels of maturation markers (HLA‐DR, CD80, CD86) were assessed.

Results

PCA samples exhibited a significantly lower monocyte count and reduced CD14 expression compared to healthy samples (p ⟨ 0.0001). Additionally, PCA‐DCs expressed significantly lower levels of maturation markers, including HLA‐DR, CD80, and CD86, when compared to HD‐DCs (p = 0.123, p = 0.884, and p = 0.309, respectively).

Conclusion

The limited success of DC vaccines could be attributed to impaired phenotypic characteristics. These observations suggest that suboptimal characteristics of Mo‐DCs generated from cancer patient blood samples might contribute to the limited success of DC vaccines. Consequently, this study underscores the need for alternative strategies to enhance the features of Mo‐DCs for more effective cancer immunotherapies.
Metal and Metal Oxides Nanoparticles as Nanofillers for Biodegradable Polymers
Authors: Wawrzyńczak Agata , Chudzińska Jagoda , Feliczak‐Guzik Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

Polymeric materials, despite their many undeniable advantages, nowadays are a major environmental challenge. Thus, in recent years biodegradable polymer matrices have been widely used in various sectors, including the medicinal, chemical, and packaging industry. Their widespread use is due to the properties of biodegradable polymer matrices, among which are their adjustable physicochemical and mechanical properties, as well as lower environmental impact. The properties of biodegradable polymers can be modified with various types of nanofillers, among which clays, organic and inorganic nanoparticles, and carbon nanostructures are most commonly used. The performance of the final product depends on the size and uniformity of the used nanofillers, as well as on their distribution and dispersion in the polymer matrix. This literature review aims to highlight new research results on advances and improvements in the synthesis, physicochemical properties and applications of biodegradable polymer matrices modified with metal nanoparticles and metal oxides.
Acidity of Isomorphic Substituted Zeolites with B, Al and Ga Revisited
Authors: Petelski Andre Nicolai , Peruchena Nélida María , Zalazar María Fernanda
Published: February 2024

Isomorphic substitution of zeolites with B, Al and Ga is a widely used approach in catalysis. The experimentally reported trend of their acidities decreases in the order: Al>Ga>B. However, a consistent explanation is still lacking in the literature. To bring more understanding of this trend, density functional theory computations were conducted on several model systems. First, the acidity of small clusters with two (2T) and five (5T) tetrahedral sites was analyzed. These systems were then projected onto three large void structures: H‐[A]‐BEA (52T), H‐[A]‐FAU (84T) and H‐[A]‐MOR (112T) with A=B, Al, Ga. Our electron density and Interacting Quantum Atom analyses show that the acidity of Al zeolites originates from the much stronger O−Al bond, which is dominated by the electrostatic attraction. The bridging hydroxyl therefore donates more charge density to the metal, the proton becomes more positive and consequently more acidic. Ga zeolites are more acidic than B zeolites due to the greater covalent nature on the O−Ga bond. The resulting acidity, as seen by ammonia, depends on both the acidic oxygen and the charge distribution of the surrounding oxygens exerted by the substituents.
An optimal multipath routing protocol using hybrid gravitational search particle swarm optimization for secure communication
Authors: Roopa Devi Erode Mohan , Hemalatha Thangaraj , Usha Dhanabalan , Nanda Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2024

Communicating large amounts of data requires an encryption solution that ensures fast and secure data transfer. Unfortunately, it faced privacy and security issues, resulting in higher power consumption, data scarcity, energy, diversity, data reliability, low security, and packet loss in the communication process. The goal of this research is to ensure data transfer while conserving energy and protecting data transmission in WSNs. Therefore, this paper proposes a multipath routing protocol using the HGSPSO algorithm, which is a combination of hybrid gravitational search algorithm (HGSA) and particle swarm optimization (PSO), to securely transmit data from one node to another node under public and private key cryptography. The PSO approach is utilized to resolve the energy hole problem by selecting the cluster head in the sink coverage area. The RSA can be employed for data encryption, data decryption, key generation, and sharing. The metrics like acceleration constants and inertial weights are used for the HGSPSO algorithm. The result of this implementation demonstrated that the scheme had a low energy consumption of 36%, a maximum packet delivery ratio (PDR) of 96%, a higher throughput rate of 88%, and a low packet loss of 39%.
Invasion by Cedrela odorata threatens long distance migration of Galapagos tortoises
Authors: Blake Stephen , Cabrera Freddy , Rivas‐Torres Gonzalo , Deem Sharon L. , Nieto‐Claudin Ainoa , Zahawi Rakan A. , Bastille‐Rousseau Guillaume
Published: February 2024

Invasive alien species are among the most pervasive threats to biodiversity. Invasive species can cause catastrophic reductions in populations of native and endemic species and the collapse of ecosystem function. A second major global conservation concern is the extirpation of large‐bodied mobile animals, including long‐distance migrants, which often have keystone ecological roles over extensive spatial extents. Here, we report on a potentially catastrophic synergy between these phenomena that threatens the endemic biota of the Galapagos Archipelago. We used GPS telemetry to track 140 migratory journeys by 25 Western Santa Cruz Island Galapagos tortoises. We plotted the spatial interaction between tortoise migrations and recently established non‐native forest dominated by the invasive tree Cedrela odorata (Cedrela forest). We qualified (a) the proportion of migratory journeys that traversed Cedrela forest, and (b) the probability that this observed pattern occurred by chance. Tortoise migrations were overwhelmingly restricted to small corridors between Cedrela forest blocks, indicating clear avoidance of those blocks. Just eight of 140 migrations traversed extensive Cedrela stands. Tortoises avoid Cedrela forest during their migrations. Further expansion of Cedrela forest threatens long‐distance migration and population viability of critically endangered Galapagos tortoises. Applied research to determine effective management solutions to mitigate Cedrela invasion is a high priority.