bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of sludge from pulp mills in extensive crops: An assessment at a semi‐commercial scale in central South America
Authors: Mazzilli Sebastián Ramón , González Barrios Pablo , Ernst Oswaldo R.
Published: August 2022

Land under agriculture has increased during the last 20 yr in the South American Pampas. Agricultural systems use mostly finite imported sources of P, so the use of local recycled P sources is an alternative. In Uruguay, two current events are relevant to this matter: the increase in the crop area ofBrassica carinata(biofuels production) and the presence of large pulp mills. The working hypothesis was that pulp mill sludge applied prior to sowing carinata crops will substitute the use of inorganic fertilizers, and that the combination of sludge and inorganic fertilizers will increase grain yield. Two on‐farm experiments were conducted, in which carinata was sown during the 2019 winter season and followed after harvest by soybean sown at one site and maize at another. At each site, six treatment strips (30 m wide × 400 m long) were established in a control‐plot design. The treatments corresponded to two sludge types (biosludge and mixed sludge), combined with a traditional N, P, K, S chemical fertilizer (29 kg P ha–1), compared with a control treatment (not fertilized). Carinata yields results do not support the proposed hypothesis, because the yields of the sludge treatments were lower than the chemical fertilization treatments. The limiting factor for the crops was associated with N supply, as the nitrogen nutrition index showed low values. Sludge application did not result in changes in summer crop yields and soil chemical properties. Future studies should focus on the sustained use of combined fertilizer sources over time.
Flame synthesis of tungsten‐doped titanium‐dioxide nanoparticles using novel precursor combination of liquid titanium tetra‐isopropoxide and solid tungsten mesh
Authors: Zhang Yuqian , Dong Zhizhong , Xiong Gang , Tse Stephen D.
Published: August 2022

Tungsten‐doped titanium‐dioxide (W‐TiO2) nanoparticles are successfully synthesized using a multiple‐diffusion‐flame burner with a separate center tube. Vaporized titanium tetra‐isopropoxide (TTIP) precursor issues from a center tube to produce TiO2 nanoparticles, while a tungsten mesh, suspended above the surrounding multiple over‐ventilated hydrogen diffusion flames, serves as the solid‐phase metal doping source. At a lower tungsten loading rate, W‐TiO2 nanoparticles are generated, as indicated by an obvious angle shift of 0.15° for the entire x‐ray diffraction spectrum. However, at a higher tungsten loading rate, homogenous nucleation of WOx occurs before or concurrently with TiO2 nucleation, producing mixed nanopowders, permitting fewer tungsten ions to be doped into TiO2. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopic characterization reveals that the as‐synthesized W‐TiO2 nanoparticles possess augmented absorbing ability in the visible‐light wavelength range, where the band gap is reduced from 3.20 to 3.05 eV, compared with that for the nondoped TiO2 nanoparticles.
Acetic Acid‐Catalyzed Selective Synthesis of N‐Substituted 2‐Amino‐3‐Cyanopyrroles via a Three‐Component Reaction Between Carbohydrates, Primary Amines and Malononitrile
Authors: Xia Mengxin , Moussa Ziad , Judeh Zaher M. A.
Published: August 2022

Direct conversion of unprotected carbohydrates to N‐heterocycles is challenging and highly desirable. A simple three‐component synthesis of N‐substituted 2‐amino‐3‐cyanopyrrole key framework is developed from the reaction between unprotected carbohydrates, malononitrile, and primary amines. The reaction proceeded under mild reaction conditions (AcOH catalyst, EtOH, 60 °C, 2 hours), tolerated a wide substrate scope, worked smoothly on a 4 g scale, and gave the pyrroles in up to 86% yield. The pyrroles were also converted into functional intermediates to demonstrate their versatility. NMR and LC–MS experiments supported a proposed cascade reaction mechanism. The approach demonstrates a robust upcycling process for the challenging synthesis of highly functionalized N‐heterocyclic compounds from unprotected carbohydrates.
The effect of cigarette smoking on first‐trimester crown–rump length
Authors: Stamatopoulos Nicole , Lu Chuan , Vo Samuel , Vaquero Mercedes Espada , Leonardi Mathew , Condous George
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Does cigarette smoking impact the embryonic growth rate in the first trimester?

Methods

This is a retrospective multicentre observational study of 2912 pregnancies. Women who presented to the early pregnancy and perinatal ultrasound units between 2010 and 2019 were included in the study. The data collected included the following: smoking status, the crown–rump length (CRL) of the pregnancy at the first ultrasound that showed an embryonic heart rate, the gestation in days and the CRL at another ultrasound up to the nuchal translucency scan and the gestation in days. Additional demographic data included the following: age, weight, height, parity and mode of delivery.

Of the 2912, complete smoking and demographic data were available for 657 pregnancies. One hundred and thirty‐seven (26.3%) were smokers, and 520 (73.7%) were not. The rate of change of smokers vs non‐smokers between two CRLs and two different days of gestation was calculated. The Wilcoxon rank sum test with continuity correction was used for statistical analysis.

Results

This gives a value of W = 31,940 and a P‐value = 0.06. There is a slight shift in location for the smokers; however, it is not statistically significant. The insignificance may be due to the general large variance in growth rate.

Conclusion

The impact of cigarette smoking on embryonic growth rate detected by CRL in the first trimester is statistically insignificant.
Paediatric orbital ultrasound: Tips and tricks
Authors: Gupta Amit , Arora Shilpa Khanna , Seth Rachna , Kumar Rakesh , Jana Manisha
Published: August 2022

Background

The orbital structures are ideally suited for ultrasound examination due to their superficial location and cystic composition of the eye. However, orbital ultrasound remains an underutilised modality due to preference for other cross‐sectional modalities in general practice.

Aim

In this article, we review the basic principles, clinical uses and technique of orbital ultrasound in peadiatric patients.

Materials and methods

The clinical utility of orbital ultrasound in peadiatric patients is demonstrated using selected cases.

Results

Ultrasound is useful in the diagnosis of various posterior segment pathologies, especially in conditions causing opacification of light‐conducting media of the eye. It is also beneficial in diagnosing various orbital pathologies, particularly in differentiating solid from cystic lesions.

Discussion

The added advantages of its use in children include lack of ionising radiation and reduced requirement of sedation or general anesthesia. Ultrasound is the most practical initial investigation in cases where ophthalmoscopy is limited by opacification of ocular media. The addition of color Doppler on ultrasound can give additional information about the vascularity of the lesion.

Conclusion

Use of ultrasound can be streamlined into the workup of various orbital and ocular pathologies either as an initial investigation or as a problem‐solving tool in cases with a diagnostic dilemma on other modalities.
MRI Clustering Reveals Three ALS Subtypes With Unique Neurodegeneration Patterns
Authors: Tan Harold H. G. , Westeneng Henk‐Jan , Nitert Abram D. , van Veenhuijzen Kevin , Meier Jil M. , van der Burgh Hannelore K. , van Zandvoort Martine J. E. , van Es Michael A. , Veldink Jan H. , van den Berg Leonard H.
Published: August 2022

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify subtypes of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by comparing patterns of neurodegeneration using brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and explore their phenotypes.

Methods

We performed T1‐weighted and diffusion tensor imaging in 488 clinically well‐characterized patients with ALS and 338 control subjects. Measurements of whole‐brain cortical thickness and white matter connectome fractional anisotropy were adjusted for disease‐unrelated variation. A probabilistic network‐based clustering algorithm was used to divide patients into subgroups of similar neurodegeneration patterns. Clinical characteristics and cognitive profiles were assessed for each subgroup. In total, 512 follow‐up scans were used to validate clustering results longitudinally.

Results

The clustering algorithm divided patients with ALS into 3 subgroups of 187, 163, and 138 patients. All subgroups displayed involvement of the precentral gyrus and are characterized, respectively, by (1) pure motor involvement (pure motor cluster [PM]), (2) orbitofrontal and temporal involvement (frontotemporal cluster [FT]), and (3) involvement of the posterior cingulate cortex, parietal white matter, temporal operculum, and cerebellum (cingulate‐parietal–temporal cluster [CPT]). These subgroups had significantly distinct clinical profiles regarding male‐to‐female ratio, age at symptom onset, and frequency of bulbar symptom onset. FT and CPT revealed higher rates of cognitive impairment on the Edinburgh cognitive and behavioral ALS screen (ECAS). Longitudinally, clustering remained stable: at 90.4% of their follow‐up visits, patients clustered in the same subgroup as their baseline visit.

Interpretation

ALS can manifest itself in 3 main patterns of cerebral neurodegeneration, each associated with distinct clinical characteristics and cognitive profiles. Besides the pure motor and frontotemporal dementia (FTD)‐like variants of ALS, a new neuroimaging phenotype has emerged, characterized by posterior cingulate, parietal, temporal, and cerebellar involvement. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:1030–1045
High‐Power Near‐Neutral Aqueous All Organic Redox Flow Battery Enabled with a Pair of Anionic Redox Species
Authors: Gao Mengqi , Salla Manohar , Song Yuxi , Wang Qing
Published: August 2022

Aqueous organic redox flow batteries (AORFBs) are regarded as a promising alternative for low‐cost and durable grid‐scale energy storage. However, the narrow potential gap, chemical lability and membrane fouling in most AORFBs constitute formidable roadblocks for practical applications. Herein, a pair of anionic organic molecules, namely (PPBPy)Br2 and PSS‐TEMPO, are proposed. The (PPBPy)Br2 in anolyte reveals remarkable electrochemical stability without degradation after 1000 cycles, while PSS‐TEMPO in catholyte presents a capacity decay rate as low as 0.012 %/cycle. At near‐neutral conditions, the (PPBPy)Br2/PSS‐TEMPO flow cell exhibits a high voltage of 1.61 V, extremely low permeability across cation‐exchange membrane and thus excellent cycling stability. Notably, a highest peak power density of 509 mW cm−2 has been achieved among reported all‐organic aqueous RFBs. The molecular engineering strategies demonstrated here could provide a credible example of high‐performance AORFBs.
Asymmetric Oxidative Lactonization of Enynyl Boronates
Authors: Zhang Kezhuo , Li Chenchen , Jia Yining , Zhao Wanxiang
Published: August 2022

Oxidation of C−B bonds is extensively used in organic synthesis, materials science, and chemically biology. However, these oxidations are usually limited to the oxidation of C(sp3)−B and C(sp2)−B bonds. The C(sp)−B bond oxidation is rarely developed. Herein we present a novel strategy for the preparation ofγ‐lactones via the oxidation of enynyl boronates. This process successively involves the C(sp)−B bond oxidation, the epoxidation of C−C double bond and the lactonization. This protocol provided variousγ‐lactones and unsaturated butenolides efficiently that are prevalent in numerous nature products and bioactive molecules. Most importantly, asymmetric oxidative lactonization of enynyl boronates was also achieved, providing chiralγ‐lactones in high enantioselectivities and diastereoselectivities. The versatile transformations and ubiquity ofγ‐lactones shed light on the importance of this strategy in the construction and late‐stage functionalization of complex molecules.
Photoredox Activation of Anhydrides for the Solvent‐Controlled Switchable Synthesis of gem‐Difluoro Compounds**
Authors: Giri Rahul , Mosiagin Ivan , Franzoni Ivan , Nötel Nicolas Yannick , Patra Subrata , Katayev Dmitry
Published: August 2022

The incorporation of the gem‐difluoromethylene (CF2) group into organic frameworks is highly sought due to the influence of this unit on the physicochemical and pharmacological properties of molecules. Herein we report an operationally simple, mild, and switchable protocol to access various gem‐difluoro compounds that employs chlorodifloroacetic anhydride (CDFAA) as a low‐cost and versatile fluoroalkylating reagent. Detailed mechanistic studies revealed that electron‐transfer photocatalysis triggers mesolytic cleavage of a C−Cl bond generating a gem‐difluoroalkyl radical. In the presence of alkene, this radical species acts as a unique intermediate that, under solvent‐controlled reaction conditions, delivers a wide range of gem‐difluorinated γ‐lactams, γ‐lactones, and promotes oxy‐perfluoroalkylation. These protocols are flow‐ and batch‐scalable, possess excellent chemo‐ and regioselectivity, and can be used for the late‐stage diversification of complex molecules.
Rationally Designing Efficient Electrocatalysts for Direct Seawater Splitting: Challenges, Achievements, and Promises
Authors: Liu Jianyun , Duan Shuo , Shi Hao , Wang Tanyuan , Yang Xiaoxuan , Huang Yunhui , Wu Gang , Li Qing
Published: August 2022

Directly splitting seawater to produce hydrogen provides a promising pathway for energy and environmental sustainability. However, current seawater splitting faces many challenges because of the sluggish kinetics, the presence of impurities, membrane contamination, and the competitive chloride oxidation reaction at the anode, which makes it more difficult than freshwater splitting. This Review firstly introduces the basic mechanisms of the anode and cathode reactions during seawater splitting. We critically analyze the primary principles for designing catalysts for seawater splitting in terms of both the hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions, including with noble metal, noble metal free, and metal‐free catalysts. Strategies to design effective catalysts, such as active site population, synergistic effect regulation, and surface engineering, are discussed. Furthermore, promises, perspectives, and challenges in developing seawater splitting technologies for clean hydrogen generation are summarized.
The combination of AlN and h‐BN for enhancing the thermal conductivity of thermoplastic polyurethane composites prepared by selective laser sintering
Authors: Zhang Xiyun , Wu Wei , Zhao Tianyu , Li Jianshuo
Published: August 2022

In recent years, with the rapid development of 5G communication technology and microelectronic chip integration technology, smart wearable devices with high thermal conductivity are becoming more and more important. The most common method to improve the thermal conductivity of polymers is to introduce fillers with high thermal conductivity for compounding and build a thermal conductivity network inside the system. At present, the main methods of preparing heat‐conducting composites are hot pressing molding, injection molding, and casting molding, but these traditional molding processes are difficult to prepare heat‐conducting composites with complex shapes and structures. Selective laser sintering (SLS) is a new 3D printing technology, which uses the energy provided by laser to melt polymer powder, then sinter layer by layer, stack layer by layer, and finally form printed products. Compared with the traditional molding process, the SLS process has the advantages of a simple manufacturing process, high molding precision, recyclable materials, and wide application, which can realize the design and development of complex structural parts. In this study, TPU composites were successfully prepared by using thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) polymer as matrix material, AlN and h‐BN as thermally conductive fillers, and SLS technology. When the content of AlN is 20 wt% and the content of h‐BN is 15 wt%, the thermal conductivity of TPU composite is as high as 0.90 W/mK, which is 391% higher than that of pure TPU sintered parts. At this time, the tensile strength of the composite is 17.2 MPa and the elongation at break is 301%, and it still shows good mechanical properties. This work is devoted to proposing a preparation method of flexible and high thermal conductivity composite materials, which can be used to prepare thermal management materials with complex shapes and structures and carriers of smart wearable devices, and has broad application prospects.
A conservation genetics perspective on supportive breeding: A case study of the common nase (Chondrostoma nasus)
Authors: Stoeckle Bernhard C. , Mueller Melanie , Nagel Christoffer , Kuehn Ralph , Geist Juergen
Published: August 2022

Supportive breeding programmes are becoming increasingly crucial for the conservation of many declining freshwater fishes such as the European common nase, Chondrostoma nasus. However, small relict populations are genetically highly vulnerable, and supportive breeding can have a detrimental impact on the genetic composition of the cultured offspring (e.g. as a result of inbreeding, genetic drift, and adaptation to captivity).

This study monitored the genetic effects of a continuing supportive breeding programme of common nase by comparing the genetic diversity of two wild spawning populations with the respective wild offspring and the progeny from captive breeding originating from spawners of the two wild populations, considering genetic variability, genetic differentiation, and inbreeding effects using nine microsatellite markers.

Despite low genetic differentiation, the offspring from captive breeding and from one of the natural populations (River Sims) were remarkably different genetically, as indicated by pairwise analyses of genetic divergence (FST from 0.028 to 0.070; Jost's DEST from 0.080 to 0.205) and the discriminant analysis of principal components. The mean number of alleles and mean allelic richness in the captive‐bred offspring and also in the wild offspring of the River Sims were lower than for wild populations of spawners and natural offspring of the River Mangfall, and signs of inbreeding effects were detected (F = 0.106 for captive bred and 0.048 for natural offspring).

The observed effects can probably be attributed to the limited number of spawners (two females and three males) used for captive breeding. In addition, the results support previous evidence on recruitment problems of the Sims population, such as a reduced hatching success.

Collecting fertilized eggs from the wild and rearing them in captivity (repatriation approach) could be an alternative to stripping a limited number of spawners and thereby to improve the conservation of genetic diversity of natural populations.
Rare earth metal‐doped Zintl phase thermoelectric materials: The Yb5−xRExAl2Sb6 (RE=Pr, Nd, Sm) system
Authors: Hong Yeongjin , Yeon Seongbeom , Jeong Jiwon , Moon Dohyun , You Tae‐Soo
Published: August 2022

Three Zintl phase solid solutions in the Yb5 − xRExAl2Sb6 (RE = Pr, Nd, Sm) system have successfully been synthesized by arc melting followed by annealing. The isotypic crystal structure of these compounds was characterized by PXRD and SXRD analyses, and their Ca5Al2Bi6‐type structure (space group Pbam, Z = 2) was described as a combination of (1) the 3‐dimensional anionic [Al2(Sb4Sb4/2)] frameworks and (2) the space‐filling cations Yb2+ and RE3+ located in between the anionic frameworks. In particular, the anionic frameworks were originally built from the two neighboring tetrahedral [AlSb4] moieties via the Sb1‐Sb1 bridges. The site‐preference of RE3+ for the Yb3/RE‐site with the mixed occupation ratio between ca. 9% and 16% of RE3+ was elucidated by the size‐factor criterion based on the size match between the cationic size and the site volume. The band structures, density of states, and crystal orbital Hamilton population curve analyses were conducted by the tight‐binding linear muffin‐tin orbital method, and the results proved that the RE3+‐doping increased the band degeneracies and the number of resonance peaks near the Fermi level resulting in the improved Seebeck coefficients. The electrical transport property measurements proved that despite the successful addition of n‐type RE3+ dopants in the title Yb5 − xRExAl2Sb6 system, the electrical conductivity decreased due to the canceling off of the newly added n‐type carriers by the already existing p‐type carriers resulting in still the p‐type character. However, the enhanced Seebeck coefficients predicted by the increased effective mass from the DFT calculations eventually improved the overall power factor of the RE3+‐doped title compounds.
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and retinal changes in optical coherence tomography: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nepal Gaurav , Kharel Sanjeev , Coghlan Megan Ariel , Yadav Jayant Kumar , Parajuli Pawan , Pandit Kamal , Shing Yow Ka , Ojha Rajeev
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Increasing evidence suggests Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) as a widespread pathological process comprising nonmotor features like fatigue, mild sensory symptoms, cognitive decline, and visual impairment. Measurements of retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) thickness using Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) may correlate with the neurodegeneration associated with ALS. In addition to RNFL thickness, other OCT parameters have been explored in the context of diagnosing ALS and predicting disease severity. In this study, we explore the possibility that OCT parameters of patients with ALS may differ significantly from those of healthy controls and thus serve as biomarkers for the disease and its progression.

Materials and methods

Between 2010 and 2021, the PubMed and EMBASE databases were examined for English language literature. ALS severity was assessed using the revised ALS functional rating scale (ALSFRS‐R). The pooled mean differences in RNFL thickness between ALS patients and controls were calculated using the Standard Mean Difference (Hedges's g) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) in STATA software version 16.

Results

Eleven studies were reviewed for data collection. RNFL thickness was not statistically significantly different between ALS patients (n = 412) and controls (n = 376) (Hedges's g = –0.22; 95% CI: –0.51 to 0.07, I2 = 73.04%, p = .14). However, the thickness of inner nuclear layer was significantly different between ALS patients and controls (Hedges's g = –0.38; 95% CI: –0.61 to 0.14, I2 = 14.85%, p = .00).

Conclusion

Our meta‐analysis found that RNFL thickness as a whole or by individual quadrants was not significantly different between ALS patients and controls while the inner nuclear layer (INL) was substantially thinner.
Efficient angiography simulation for complex vessels
Authors: Huang Dongjin , Zhou Shuhua , Zeng Ziyang , Shi Yongsheng
Published: August 2022

Angiography simulation is a critical step in virtual interventional surgery. However, the blood vessels are always complex and irregular, which poses a significant challenge to the accuracy and efficiency of simulation. In this paper, we present a novel method to simulate contrast media propagation, which can efficiently and accurately deal with various complex vascular structures and the coupling between blood and contrast media. Our method represents the vascular structures by signed distance functions and to impose boundary conditions, and then we compute the boundary volume by Gauss–Kronrod quadrature, which yields more accurate results even in complex vessels. Furthermore, we improve the simulation's initialization efficiency and real‐time force computational efficiency by precomputing the boundary volume values throughout the vascular structure and saving them to a volume map, which can be queried very efficiently during runtime. Moreover, we add term to the multiple‐fluid model to handle the vascular viscosity, which achieves a more realistic effect. Experiments show that our method obtains more smooth and accurate particle states, and significantly improves initialization efficiency. Finally, we invited 12 clinicians to evaluate the algorithm and verify the clinical value of our algorithm.
Epipolythiodioxopiperazine‐Based Natural Products: Building Blocks, Biosynthesis and Biological Activities
Authors: Huber Eva M.
Published: August 2022

Epipolythiodioxopiperazines (ETPs) are fungal secondary metabolites that share a 2,5‐diketopiperazine scaffold built from two amino acids and bridged by a sulfide moiety. Modifications of the core and the amino acid side chains, for example by methylations, acetylations, hydroxylations, prenylations, halogenations, cyclizations, and truncations create the structural diversity of ETPs and contribute to their biological activity. However, the key feature responsible for the bioactivities of ETPs is their sulfide moiety. Over the last years, combinations of genome mining, reverse genetics, metabolomics, biochemistry, and structural biology deciphered principles of ETP production. Sulfurization via glutathione and uncovering of the thiols followed by either oxidation or methylation crystallized as fundamental steps that impact expression of the biosynthesis cluster, toxicity and secretion of the metabolite as well as self‐tolerance of the producer. This article showcases structure and activity of prototype ETPs such as gliotoxin and discusses the current knowledge on the biosynthesis routes of these exceptional natural products.
One‐Pot Chemoenzymatic Synthesis of Microviridin Analogs Containing Functional Tags
Authors: Scholz Stella , Kerestetzopoulou Sofia , Wiebach Vincent , Schnegotzki Romina , Schmid Bianca , Reyna‐González Emmanuel , Ding Ling , Süssmuth Roderich D. , Dittmann Elke , Baunach Martin
Published: August 2022

Microviridins are a prominent family of ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptides (RiPPs) featuring characteristic lactone and lactam rings. Their unusual cage‐like architecture renders them highly potent serine protease inhibitors of which individual variants specifically inhibit different types of proteases of pharmacological interest. While posttranslational modifications are key for the stability and bioactivity of RiPPs, additional attractive properties can be introduced by functional tags. To date – although highly desirable – no method has been reported to incorporate functional tags in microviridin scaffolds or the overarching class of graspetides. In this study, a chemoenzymatic in vitro platform is used to introduce functional tags in various microviridin variants yielding biotinylated, dansylated or propargylated congeners. This straightforward approach paves the way for customized protease inhibitors with built‐in functionalities that can help to unravel the still elusive ecological roles and targets of this remarkable class of compounds and to foster applications based on protease inhibition.
A Type III Polyketide Synthase Specific for Sporulating Negativicutes is Responsible for Alkylpyrone Biosynthesis
Authors: Bredy Florian , Ishida Keishi , Hertweck Christian
Published: August 2022

Genomic analyses indicate that anaerobic bacteria represent a neglected source of natural products. Whereas a limited number of polyketides have been reported from anaerobes, products of type III polyketide synthases (PKSs) have remained unknown. We found a highly conserved biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) comprising genes putatively encoding a type III PKS and a methyltransferase in genomes of the Negativicutes, strictly anaerobic, diderm bacteria. By in vivo and in vitro expression of a type III PKS gene, dquA from the oak‐associated Dendrosporobacter quercicolus in E. coli we show production of long‐chain alkylpyrones. Intriguingly, this BGC is specific for sporulating Sporomusaceae but absent in related Negativicutes that do not sporulate, thus suggesting a physiological role.
Strategies for immortalisation of amnion‐derived mesenchymal and epithelial cells
Authors: Ansari Aneesa , Denton Kate M. , Lim Rebecca
Published: August 2022

Mesenchymal (human amniotic mesenchymal stem cell [HAMSC]) and epithelial cells (human amnion epithelial cell [HAEC]) derived from human amniotic membranes possess characteristics of pluripotency. However, the pluripotency of HAMSC and HAEC are sustained only for a finite period. This in vitro cell growth can be extended by cell immortalisation. Many well‐defined immortalisation systems have been used for artificially overexpressing genes such as human telomerase reverse transcriptase in HAMSC and HAEC leading to controlled and prolonged cell proliferation. In recent years, much progress has been made in our understanding of the cellular machinery that regulates the cell cycle when immortalised. This review summarises the current understanding of molecular mechanisms that contribute to cell immortalisation, the strategies that have been employed to immortalise amnion‐derived cell types, and their likely applications in regenerative medicine.
Plasma‐Assisted Coupling Reactions of Dinitrogen and Carbon Dioxide Mediated by Monometallic YB1–4−⋅Anions: Carbon−Nitrogen Bond Formation
Authors: Chen Zhi‐Ying , Wang Ming , Ma Jia‐Bi
Published: August 2022

Transition‐metal catalyzed coupling to form C−N bonds is significant in chemical science. However, the inert nature of N2 and CO2 renders their coupling quite challenging. Herein, we report the activation of dinitrogen in the mild plasma atmosphere by the gas‐phase monometallic YB1–4− anions and further coupling of CO2 to form C−N bonds by using mass spectrometry and theoretical calculation. The observed product anions are NCNBO− and N(BO)2−, accompanied by the formation of neutral products YO and YB0–2NC, respectively. We can tune the reactivity and the type of products by manipulating the number of B atoms. The B atoms in YB1–4N2− act as electron donors in CO2 reduction reactions, and the carbon atom originating from CO2 serves as an electron reservoir. This is the first example of gas‐phase monometallic anions, which are capable to realize the functionalization of N2 with CO2 through C−N bond formation and N−N and C−O bond cleavage.
A Symmetrically π‐Expanded Carbazole Incorporating Fluoranthene Moieties
Authors: Vogel Alexander , Schreyer Till , Bergner John , Rominger Frank , Oeser Thomas , Kivala Milan
Published: August 2022

A novel doubly cyclopentannulated carbazole which is accessible through a successive π‐expansion of di(1‐naphthylamine) is disclosed. The carbazole moiety is generated in the final step through intramolecular oxidative coupling. The π‐expansion of carbazole resulted in strongly altered optoelectronic and electrochemical properties. The solid‐state structure features an interesting packing motif with alternating face‐to‐face π⋅⋅⋅π and edge‐to‐face C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions. The experimental findings were corroborated by theoretical calculations.
Inhibitory Effect of DMSO on Halohydrin Dehalogenase: Experimental and Computational Insights into the Influence of an Organic Co‐solvent on the Structural and Catalytic Properties of a Biocatalyst
Authors: Milčić Nevena , Stepanić Višnja , Crnolatac Ivo , Findrik Blažević Zvjezdana , Brkljača Zlatko , Majerić Elenkov Maja
Published: August 2022

Although the application of organic solvents in biocatalysis is well explored, in‐depth understanding of the interactions of solvent with proteins, in particular oligomeric ones, is still scant. Understanding these interactions is essential in tailoring enzymes for industrially relevant catalysis in nonaqueous media. In our study, the homotetrameric enzyme halohydrin dehalogenase (HHDH) from Agrobacterium radiobacter AD1 (HheC) was investigated, as a model system, in DMSO/water solvent mixtures. DMSO, the most commonly used co‐solvent for biocatalytic transformations, was found to act as a mixed‐type inhibitor with a prevalent competitive contribution. Even 5 % (v/v) DMSO inhibits the activity of HheC by half. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations showed that DMSO keeps close to Ser‐Tyr catalytic residues forming alternate H‐bonds with them. Stability measurements paired with differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic light scattering methods and MD studies revealed that HheC maintains its structural integrity with as much as 30 % (v/v) DMSO.
Revealing Phosphorus Nitrides up to the Megabar Regime: Synthesis of α′‐P3N5, δ‐P3N5 and PN2
Authors: Laniel Dominique , Trybel Florian , Néri Adrien , Yin Yuqing , Aslandukov Andrey , Fedotenko Timofey , Khandarkhaeva Saiana , Tasnádi Ferenc , Chariton Stella , Giacobbe Carlotta , Bright Eleanor Lawrence , Hanfland Michael , Prakapenka Vitali , Schnick Wolfgang , Abrikosov Igor A. , Dubrovinsky Leonid , Dubrovinskaia Natalia
Published: August 2022

Non‐metal nitrides are an exciting field of chemistry, featuring a significant number of compounds that can possess outstanding material properties. These properties mainly rely on maximizing the number of strong covalent bonds, with crosslinked XN6 octahedra frameworks being particularly attractive. In this study, the phosphorus–nitrogen system was studied up to 137 GPa in laser‐heated diamond anvil cells, and three previously unobserved phases were synthesized and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy measurements and density functional theory calculations. δ‐P3N5 and PN2 were found to form at 72 and 134 GPa, respectively, and both feature dense 3D networks of the so far elusive PN6 units. The two compounds are ultra‐incompressible, having a bulk modulus of K0=322 GPa for δ‐P3N5 and 339 GPa for PN2. Upon decompression below 7 GPa, δ‐P3N5 undergoes a transformation into a novel α′‐P3N5 solid, stable at ambient conditions, that has a unique structure type based on PN4 tetrahedra. The formation of α′‐P3N5 underlines that a phase space otherwise inaccessible can be explored through materials formed under high pressure.
Restrictive Regulation of Ionic Liquid Quaternary Ammonium Salt in SBA‐15 Pore Channel for Efficient Carbon Dioxide Conversion
Authors: Liu Shaoqing , Hou Xueyan , Xu Aihao , Chu Bingxian , Li Yunxi , Jin Lijian , Lu Jinkai , Dong Lihui , Fan Minguang
Published: August 2022

Herein, the synthesis of a new type of catalyst, SBA−M (Schiff complex of different metal types grafted on SBA‐15) based on a quaternization reaction, is described. Various amounts of ionic liquid were grafted into the pore channels of SBA‐15 using the post‐grafting method, which allowed the ionic liquid to be grafted into the pore channels restrictively. Notably, over six cycles, SBA−Mn (0.2) has been shown to maintain its catalytic activity and stability. In addition, a reaction mechanism for the cycloaddition of CO2with epoxides based on density‐functional theory is proposed. The cycloaddition reaction of CO2and epoxides is an efficient way of carbon fixation. It is demonstrated that the metal coordinated with the oxygen atom of the epoxides and that a halogen attacked the carbon of epoxides. Moreover, theoretical calculations and synthesis strategy provide a new approach for CO2conversion.
Integrated Process Design and Life Cycle Assessment of Carbon Monoxide Provision from Basic Oxygen Furnace Gas
Authors: Hense Janik , Bachmann Marvin , Polte Lukas , von der Aßen Niklas , Jupke Andreas
Published: August 2022

Vacuum pressure swing adsorption (VPSA) processes are promising separation technologies to recover valuable compounds from industrial off‐gases. In this work, the separation of CO from basic oxygen furnace gas (BOFG) with a three‐bed VPSA process for high‐purity applications using a dynamic process model is analyzed. The analysis evaluates technical operating ranges for providing 99.9 % pure CO and assesses system‐wide environmental impacts using life cycle assessment. The results show that CO from BOFG as feedstock for chemicals reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by about 10 % for Germany's current grid mix regardless whether the VPSA process operates at maximum productivity (0.18 Nm3h−1kg−1ads) or maximum recovery (95.7 %). Further reduction in GHG emissions by up to 68 % can be achieved using renewable energy albeit increasing other environmental impacts such as mineral and metal depletion. Overall, VPSA offers a viable, short‐term solution for providing low‐carbon CO from BOFG.
Preparation and characterization of PVA‐g‐GO/PVA/PAN composite membrane for pervaporation desalination
Authors: Zeng Zheng , Yuan Haikuan , Lu Jie
Published: August 2022

Graphene oxide (GO) has extensive applications in membrane‐based separations, but its dispersion in the membrane has always been a problem due to the presence of π–π interactions in GO nanosheets. In this study, a grafting reaction was designed by using poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) for GO grafting modification and poly (vinyl alcohol)‐g‐graphene oxide (PVA‐g‐GO) nanocomposites were synthesized. The grafting material to GO was the same as the basic separation polymer material. PVA‐g‐GO showed better dispersibility and hydrophilicity than GO, and a series of composite membranes were prepared using a polyacrylonitrile (PAN) ultrafiltration (UF) membrane as a substrate. PVA‐g‐GO nanocomposites and membranes were characterized by using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), water contact angle, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), etc. The addition of PVA‐g‐GO improved both the separation performance and anti‐swelling property of the composite membrane, and the PVA‐g‐GO/PVA/PAN composite membrane loaded with 2 wt.% PVA‐g‐GO obtained a high flux of 4.46 kg/m2 · h and a high rejection of 99.99% when dehydrating 3.5 wt.% NaCl solution at 30°C by pervaporation.
Patient‐reported outcomes among patients with systemic mastocytosis in routine clinical practice: Results of the TouchStone SM Patient Survey
Authors: Mesa Ruben A. , Sullivan Erin M. , Dubinski David , Carroll Brittany , Slee Valerie M. , Jennings Susan V. , Finnerty Celeste C. , Bohannon Linda S. , Mathias Susan D. , Lahue Betsy J. , Castells Mariana C.
Published: August 2022

Background

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) is a rare clonal neoplasm driven by KIT D816V and other mutations. Data were collected from the patient perspective on disease burden and included an SM‐specific symptom assessment tool.

Methods

US adults aged 18 years and older with a self‐reported SM diagnosis completed an online TouchStone SM Patient Survey of 100 items, including the 12‐item Short‐Form Health Survey, the Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis Symptom Assessment Form, and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire, as well as questions about SM diagnosis, the impact of SM on daily activities, work impairment, and health care use. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Fifty‐six individuals completed the survey (89% women; median age, 48 years; mean time since diagnosis, 6.7 years), reporting indolent SM (66%), aggressive SM (9%), smoldering SM (5%), and unknown SM subtype (18%). Over a 1‐year recall, respondents reported seeking emergency care for anaphylaxis (30%) and taking three or more prescription medications (52%) for SM. Over one half of patients (54%) reduced their work hours because of SM, and 64% avoided leaving home because of symptoms. A majority of respondents (93%) had experienced ≥10 SM‐related symptoms, noting that the most bothersome were anaphylactic episodes (18%), abdominal/stomach pain (16%), diarrhea/loose stools (13%), and fatigue (11%). Whereas an Indolent Systemic Mastocytosis Symptom Assessment Form‐derived total symptom score of 28 is used to indicate moderate‐to‐severe symptoms, the mean total symptom score was 52.7. Mental and physical component summary scores from the 12‐item Short‐Form Health Survey were below population norms.

Conclusions

Patients who were surveyed reported substantial symptom burden and unmet needs because of SM, as evidenced by seeking emergency care and reporting bothersome symptoms, poor quality of life, and reduced work hours and productivity.

Lay summary

The objective of this research was to understand the burden and unmet needs in the rare disease of systemic mastocytosis (SM) to guide future care.

Fifty‐six patients completed an online survey containing questions about their diagnosis, medications, health care use, quality of life, and SM symptoms.

The results demonstrated that SM is associated with severe and burdensome symptoms, anaphylactic events, emergency department visits, use of multiple medications, reduced ability to work, and poor physical and psychological quality of life.

These findings suggest the need for future advances to address unmet needs in patients affected by SM.
CAR‐T therapy as a consolidation in remission B‐ALL patients with poor prognosis
Authors: Yin Zhichao , Lin Yuehui , Liu Dan , Tong Chunrong , Liu Shuangyou
Published: August 2022

Background

To date, almost all studies regarding chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy for B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL) were performed in refractory/relapsed (r/r) or minimal residual disease‐positive patients. CAR‐T therapy in remission patients has not been reported.

Aim

To observe the treatment outcome of CAR‐T cells for remission B‐ALL patients with poor prognosis.

Methods and Results

CAR‐T treatment was applied to two B‐ALL patients in remission status who had poor prognostic factors and refused transplantation, and one case was unable to accept standard chemotherapy owing to multiple complications. The procedure of CAR‐T therapy in these two remission patients was the same as that in r/r B‐ALL patients. Lentiviral vectors encoding second generation CARs composed of CD3ζ and 4‐1BB were used to produce CAR‐T cells. Lymphodepleting agents fludarabine and cyclophosphamide were administered prior to cell infusion. Grade I cytokine release syndrome occurred after each T‐cell infusion and there was no neurotoxicity. CAR‐T treatment followed by non‐intensive maintenance chemotherapy and targeted drugs allowed both patients to obtain a long‐term event‐free survival of more than three and a half years without transplantation.

Conclusions

CAR‐T therapy could be used in high‐risk B‐ALL patients as a consolidation to avoid transplantation, the combination of CAR‐T and following maintenance therapy may be better than CAR‐T alone for durable remission.
A systematic review and narrative synthesis of indirect psychological intervention in acute mental health inpatient settings
Authors: Man Holly , Wood Lisa , Glover Naomi
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Psychologists frequently deliver indirect psychological interventions in mental health inpatient settings to support staff to reflect upon and improve their clinical practice. However, research into these interventions is sparse. Therefore, this study aimed to undertake a systematic review and narrative synthesis of the indirect psychological interventions used in mental health inpatient settings.

Methods

MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Embase were searched for eligible studies and forward‐citation searching was undertaken. A narrative synthesis was undertaken to synthesize results. The quality of studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.

Results

Ten studies were included in the review, and all utilized a small to moderate sample size. We identified five categories of interventions involving a range of methodologies and the studies were assessed to be of good to adequate quality. The most common type of indirect intervention employed was case formulation sessions. Other types of indirect interventions included formal clinical supervision, reflective practice and staff practice‐based education sessions. Overall, the utilization of indirect psychological interventions shows promise, particularly case formulation sessions.

Conclusions

The use of indirect psychological interventions within mental health inpatient settings may have benefits for patient care. However, additional larger scale research is required to further develop the evidence base of indirect interventions for this setting.
Surface Modification of Y2Ti2O5S2 with Co3O4 Co‐catalyst for Photocatalytic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Lin Lihua , Polliotto Valeria , Vequizo Junie Jhon M. , Tao Xiaoping , Liang Xizhuang , Ma Yiwen , Hisatomi Takashi , Takata Tsuyoshi , Domen Kazunari
Published: August 2022

Y2Ti2O5S2 (YTOS), an oxysulfide material, has attracted attention as a photocatalyst due to its optical absorption at wavelengths up to 650 nm, and its ability to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. However, the performance of YTOS in photocatalytic water splitting has remained low. One important factor accounting for this poor activity is the absence of highly efficient active sites. Surface modification with oxygen‐evolution co‐catalysts is indispensable for enhancing the activity and durability of non‐oxide narrow‐bandgap photocatalysts. Herein, we report the preparation of cobalt oxide (Co3O4)‐loaded YTOS for photocatalytic oxygen evolution. The Co3O4 co‐catalyst was loaded by thermal decomposition of cobalt nitrate. The as‐obtained sample showed significantly enhanced activity in the oxygen evolution reaction compared with unmodified or IrO2‐loaded YTOS. Transient absorption spectroscopy revealed that the Co3O4 co‐catalyst captured holes and promoted charge separation, which accounted for the enhanced activity.
Spreading the Landscape of Dual Ion Batteries: from Electrode to Electrolyte
Authors: Liu Meiqi , Zhang Wei , Zheng Weitao
Published: August 2022

The working mechanism of a dual‐ion battery (DIB) differs from that of a lithium‐ion battery (LIB) in that the anions in the electrolyte of the former can be intercalated as well. Researchers have been paying close attention to this device because of its high voltage, low price, and environmental friendliness. However, DIBs are still in their early research stages, and numerous issues need to be addressed and investigated further. Initially, this Review explains how DIBs work in principle and discusses the progress of electrode materials for cathode and anode. Furthermore, since the electrolytes used as the active material, as well as anion, solvent, and additives, have a significant impact on the DIB's capacity and voltage, the current status is also presented in terms of electrolytes, followed by an outlook on confronting the challenges. A comprehensive summary from electrode to electrolyte will guide the development of next‐generation DIBs.
A low jitter sub‐sampling phase‐locked loop with sampling thermal noise cancellation technique
Authors: Li Zhen , Li Zhenrong , Wang Xudong , Wang Zeyuan , Zhuang Yiqi
Published: August 2022

The traditional sub‐sampling phase‐locked loop faces the tradeoffs between phase noise and spur, in that low in‐band phase noise requires large sampling capacitor size but at the sacrifice of spur performance. This paper presents a sub‐sampling PLL aimed at minimizing in‐band phase noise via sampling thermal noise cancellation technique. It enables the substantial reduction of in‐band phase noise while reducing the sampling capacitor size. In addition, due to the reduction of the sampling capacitance, the reference spur performance of the PLL is improved, and the power consumption of the isolation buffer is reduced. Implemented in a 65 nm CMOS process, the in‐band phase noise at 200 kHz offset is −133.4 dBc/Hz at 2.2 GHz and integrated jitter is 80 fsrms. The reference spur is −67 dBc. It consumes 5.5 mA from 1.2 V supply and occupies 0.72 mm2.