bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Methods for the Quantification of Ribavirin in Pharmaceutical Preparations, A Comparative Study
Authors: Gungor Serdar , Bulduk Ibrahim
Published: February 2022

Ribavirin is a broad-spectrum antiviral drug and is used to treat diseases caused by many viral infections. In this study, high-pressure liquid chromatographic and UV-Vis spectrophotometric methods were developed, validated and statistically compared to determine the amount of ribavirin in pharmaceutical preparations. HPLC analyses were performed by UV detection at 207 nm using a mobile phase consisting of 20mm KH2P04 with a flow rate of 0.8 mL min-1 on a C18 column. Ultrapure water was used as a solvent in spectrophotometric analyses. The UV spectrum of the standard and sample solutions was recorded between 200 and 400 nm and absorbance values were measured at 207 nm. Both methods were validated according to the procedures described in ICH guidelines Q2(R1) for verification of analytical methods. The results showed that spectrophotometric and liquid chromatographic methods were linear, precise, accurate, rugged, and robust with RSD values less than 1.00%, and the recovery percentage was within standard limits (98-102%). Then a statistical comparison of these two analytical methods was performed, and the results showed no significant difference. As a result, the developed analytical methods were determined to be accurate, highly effective, reliable, fast, simple, and could be used for routine quality control analysis of ribavirin in pharmaceutical formulations.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Carbon from Merbau Sawdust as a Nickel Metal Catalyst Support for Castor Oil Hydrocracking
Authors: Trisunaryanti Wega , Triyono Triyono , Purwono Suryo , Purwanti Aprilia Siti , Sumbogo Satriyo Dibyo
Published: February 2022

Synthesis of mesoporous carbon from merbau sawdust with H2O2 as activator using reflux method followed by carbonization at 800 °C (RC800) had been carried out. This research is aiming to produce effective pathway to synthesize effective nickel-mesoporous carbon catalyst. The nickel metal was impregnated on the mesoporous carbon by wet impregnation using the salt precursor of Ni(NO3)2∙6H2O. The results showed that carbon RC800 and C800 had a specific surface area of 135.18 and 182.48 m2/g. Specific surface area of Ni/RC800 and Ni/C800 catalyst were 41.31 and 7.15 m2/g, respectively. The metal content in Ni/RC800 and Ni/C800 catalyst were 0.83 and 0.92 wt%, respectively. Ni/RC800 catalyst had the highest acidity (7.64 mmol/g) compared to Ni/C800 catalyst (6.99 mmol/g), RC800 (97.43 mmol/g), and C800 (6.17 mmol/g). The Ni/RC800 catalyst has the highest activity with the liquid product conversion of 66.01 wt%. Its selectivity towards gasoline fraction, diesel fraction, alcohol, and organic was 8.06, 1.17, 2.61, and 54.13%, respectively. Copyright © 2022 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Tailor‐Engineered 2D Cocatalysts: Harnessing Electron–Hole Redox Center of 2D g‐C3N4 Photocatalysts toward Solar‐to‐Chemical Conversion and Environmental Purification
Authors: Ling Grayson Zhi Sheng , Ng Sue‐Faye , Ong Wee‐Jun
Published: February 2022

Sparked by natural photosynthesis, solar photocatalysis using metal‐free graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) with appealing electronic structure has turned up as the most captivating technique to the quest for sustainable energy generation and pollution‐free environment. Nonetheless, low‐dimensional g‐C3N4 is thwarted from sluggish kinetics and rapid recombination of photogenerated carriers upon light irradiation. Among multifarious modification strategies, engineering 2D cocatalysts is anticipated to accelerate redox kinetics, augment active sites and ameliorate electron–hole separation of 2D g‐C3N4 for boosted activity thanks to its face‐to‐face contact surface. It is of timely and technological significance to review the 2D/2D interfaces with state‐of‐the‐art 2D cocatalysts, spanning from carbon‐containing to phosphorus‐containing, metal dichalcogenide, and other cocatalysts. Fundamental principles for each photocatalytic application will be introduced. Thereafter, the recent advances of 2D/2D cocatalyst‐mediated g‐C3N4 systems will be critically evaluated based on their interfacial engineering, emerging roles, and impacts toward stability and catalytic efficiency. Importantly, mechanistic insights into the charge dynamics and structure–performance relationship will be deciphered. Last, noteworthy research directions are prospected to deliver insightful ideas for future development of g‐C3N4. Overall, this review is anticipated to serve as a scaffold and cornerstone in designing dimensionality‐dependent 2D cocatalyst‐assisted g‐C3N4 toward renewable energy and ecologically green environment.
Microfluidic Tissue Engineering and Bio‐Actuation
Authors: Filippi Miriam , Buchner Thomas , Yasa Oncay , Weirich Stefan , Katzschmann Robert K.
Published: February 2022

Bio‐hybrid technologies aim to replicate the unique capabilities of biological systems that could surpass advanced artificial technologies. Soft bio‐hybrid robots consist of synthetic and living materials and have the potential to self‐assemble, regenerate, work autonomously, and interact safely with other species and the environment. Cells require a sufficient exchange of nutrients and gases, which is guaranteed by convection and diffusive transport through liquid media. The functional development and long‐term survival of biological tissues in vitro can be improved by dynamic flow culture, but only microfluidic flow control can develop tissue with fine structuring and regulation at the microscale. Full control of tissue growth at the microscale will eventually lead to functional macroscale constructs, which are needed as the biological component of soft bio‐hybrid technologies. This review summarizes recent progress in microfluidic techniques to engineer biological tissues, focusing on the use of muscle cells for robotic bio‐actuation. Moreover, the instances in which bio‐actuation technologies greatly benefit from fusion with microfluidics are highlighted, which include: the microfabrication of matrices, biomimicry of cell microenvironments, tissue maturation, perfusion, and vascularization.
Quantum Materials Manufacturing
Authors: Glavin Nicholas R. , Ajayan Pulickel M. , Kar Swastik
Published: February 2022

The quantum age is just around the corner. As quantum systems become more stable, robust, and mainstream, tackling the challenge of high‐throughput manufacturing will require further developments in materials synthesis, characterization, assembly, and diagnostics. As the building blocks of future technologies scale down to atomic and molecular scales, a paradigm shift in manufacturing will begin to take shape. Inspired by a quantum manufacturing world that elevates the Materials Genome Initiative to the next level, a “human‐in‐the‐loop” framework for high‐throughput manufacturing, which addresses key opportunities and challenges to be overcome, is outlined.
An Electroluminodynamic Flexible Device for Highly Efficient Eradication of Drug‐Resistant Bacteria
Authors: Zhang Jianhong , Jia Qingyan , Yue Zilin , Huo Jingjing , Chai Jin , Yu Luofeng , Nie Renhao , Shao Han , Zhao Yang , Li Peng , Huang Wei
Published: February 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has attracted wide attention in antibacterial applications due to its advantages of spatial‐temporal selectivity, noninvasiveness, and low incidence to develop drug resistance. To make it more convenient, universal, and manipulatable for clinical application, a conceptually antibacterial strategy, namely “electroluminodynamic therapy” (ELDT), is presented by nanoassembly of an electroluminescent (EL) material and a photosensitizer, which is capable of generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) in situ under an electric field, i.e., the fluorescence emitted by the EL molecules excites the photosensitizer to generate singlet oxygen (1O2), for the oxidative damage of pathogens. Based on the scheme of ELDT, a flexible therapeutic device is fabricated through a hydrogel loading with ELDT nanoagents, followed by integration with a flexible battery, satisfying the requirements of being light and wearable for wound dressings. The ELDT‐based flexible device presents potent ROS‐induced killing efficacies against drug‐resistant bacteria (>99.9%), so as to effectively inhibit the superficial infection and promote the wound healing. This research reveals a proof‐of‐concept ELDT strategy as a prospective alternative to PDT, which avoids the utilization of a physical light source, and achieves convenient and effective killing of drug‐resistant bacteria through a hydrogel‐based flexible therapeutic device.
The Design and Bioimaging Applications of NIR Fluorescent Organic Dyes with High Brightness
Authors: Wu Jiaxing , Shi Zhenxiong , Zhu Linlin , Li Jie , Han Xu , Xu Man , Hao Shiping , Fan Yibo , Shao Tao , Bai Hua , Peng Bo , Hu Wenbo , Liu Xiaowang , Yao Chuanhao , Li Lin , Huang Wei
Published: February 2022

Due to the merits of decreased photon attenuation, autofluorescence, and scattering, the near‐infrared (NIR, 700–1700 nm) region is an important window in the field of biomedicine, such as in vivo fluorescence imaging, in which both the optical detection depth and the resolution/contrast have been significantly improved. In particular, for second NIR (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) dyes, biological tissues have almost no background interference. Typical fluorophores have excellent spectral performance and rich functional modification sites and can be optimized into NIR dyes for bioimaging. However, as the absorption/emission wavelength of fluorophores redshift to NIR, it is challenging to keep fluorophores with satisfying brightness. Therefore, for the purpose of increasing the absorption/emission wavelength of dye while promoting its brightness, it is necessary to study the structure–property relationship of the dyes. This review introduces the influences of fluorophores’ structure on their photophysical properties, summarizes the strategies for maintaining high fluorescence brightness along with redshifted absorption/emission wavelengths, and the latest advances of highly fluorescent brightness dyes. Finally, the opportunities and challenges in this emerging field are also provided. The authors aim to provide insightful design guidelines and clear overview of highly bright NIR fluorescent dyes, which might trigger new ideas and applications.
Electrosynthesis of CF3‐Substituted Polycyclic Quinazolinones via Cascade Trifluoromethylation/Cyclization of Unactivated Alkene
Authors: Liu Lei , Zhang Wangqin , Xu Chao , He Jiaying , Xu Zhenhui , Yang Zehui , Ling Fei , Zhong Weihui
Published: February 2022

An atom and step economy cascade trifluoromethylation/cyclization of unactivated alkene with Langlois reagent as a CF3 source is described. A variety of polycyclic quinazolinones were successfully synthesized in 52–81% yields under transition metal‐ and oxidant‐free conditions. The Langlois reagent used in this strategy as a CF3 reagent possesses the advantages of bench‐stablity, cost‐effectivity and high‐efficiency. Additionally, gram‐scale reaction, broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance demonstrated the synthetic usefulness of this protocol.

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Photoredox Catalyzed Trifluoromethyl Radical‐Triggered Trifunctionalization of 5‐HexenenitrilesviaCyano Migration
Authors: Guo Kang , Gu Chen , Li Yun , Xie Xiaofei , Zhang Honglin , Chen Kang , Zhu Yingguang
Published: February 2022

A photoredox catalyzed trifluoromethyl radical‐triggered trifunctionalization of 5‐hexenenitrilesviacyano group migration is reported. The cyano group migration is of high chemo‐selectivity even in the presence of aryl or heteroaryl groups as competitors. This protocol provides a facile access to a broad scope of CF3‐containing compounds with high molecular complexity and functional group diversity. The success of gram‐scale reaction and the versatility of products in derivative synthesis illustrate the potential value of this transformation in synthetic chemistry.

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Feasible Degradation of Polyethylene Terephthalate Fiber‐Based Microplastics in Alkaline Media with Bi2O3@N‐TiO2 Z‐Scheme Photocatalytic System
Authors: Zhou Dawang , Wang Li , Zhang Fangzhou , Wu Jing , Wang Huaping , Yang Jianping
Published: February 2022

Fiber‐based microplastic (FMP) pollution in the wastewater of the textile industry and urban sewage has become an emerging issue and a potential threat to marine life and human health. However, most reported reduction strategies, such as physical adsorption/filtration and chemical‐catalytic degradation are limited by the secondary pollution caused by the desorption of FMPs and inferior degradation performance. Advanced technologies for efficient FMP control remain largely insufficient and underdeveloped. This work reports a Z‐scheme Bi2O3@N‐TiO2 heterojunction synthesized by a solvothermal and wet‐impregnation strategy. Bi2O3@N‐TiO2 degrades ≈10.23 ± 1.91 wt% of polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐FMPs (a major FMP existing in the environment) at pH = 9, which is nearly three times higher than that at pH = 7. Experimental results show that the hydrolysis of PET‐FMPs in alkaline media is the main reason for the superior performance. Importantly, the hydrophilic, weight‐average molecular weight and crystallinity of PET‐FMP are the key factors affecting the photocatalytic degradation performance of PET‐FMPs. This study demonstrates an eco‐friendly strategy for remediation of FMP contamination.
Ultra‐Wideband, Polarization‐Independent, Wide‐Angle Multilayer Swastika‐Shaped Metamaterial Solar Energy Absorber with Absorption Prediction using Machine Learning
Authors: Patel Shobhit K. , Surve Jaymit , Jadeja Rajendrasinh , Katkar Vijay , Parmar Juveriya , Ahmed Kawsar
Published: February 2022

This paper proposes a double layer of gold multipattern swastika (DLMP) resonator based on SiO2 substrate. The average absorption of 95% is achieved for the DLMP metasurface‐based solar absorber in the spectrum (0.1–3 μm) covering the ultraviolet, visible, near‐infrared (NIR), and some range of mid‐infrared regions which makes proposed solar energy absorber ultra‐wideband. The absorptance rate of more than 90% is achieved for the bandwidth of 2516 nm, in absorptance spectrum of 0.314 to 2.830 μm. Shape analysis is also carried out for proposed structure with simulations of five variations and comparative analysis in terms of absorptance response under solar radiation is also presented to check the effect of shape variation on absorption. Furthermore, the influence of several structural parameters on absorptance spectra is also investigated. It is also observed that the absorptance spectrum of proposed solar absorber is angle insensitive for the range of 0° to 70° and is also polarization insensitive. General regression neural network is used to build regression models which can learn and predict the behavior of absorbers in assorted conditions. Experimental results prove that these models can predict the absorber behavior with high accuracy and can reduce the simulation time, resource requirements by 80%.
Efficient Construction of 3‐Fluoroalkylated Oxindoles Enabled by Zwitterion Catalysis
Authors: Kumar Sandeep , Vaishanv Narendra Kumar , Mohanan Kishor
Published: February 2022

3,3‐Disusbtituted oxindoles are important compounds in organic synthesis, and methods to access this class of compounds have always been sought after. Herein, we have identified a new method where a zwitterion generated using a combination of phosphine and para‐quinone methide could efficiently catalyze the 1,6‐conjugate addition of α‐fluoro‐β‐ketoamides to isatin‐derived para‐quinone methides to access 3‐fluoroalkylated oxindoles. It was further shown that the methodology could be extended to arylaldehyde‐derived p‐QMs. Moreover, one of the conjugate addition products was efficiently transformed into oxoindolinyl fluoroacetamide derivative through a K2CO3 mediated deacylation reaction.
A Desaturative Approach for Aromatic Aldehyde Synthesis via Synergistic Enamine, Photoredox and Cobalt Triple Catalysis
Authors: Zhao Huaibo , Caldora Henry P. , Turner Oliver , Douglas James J. , Leonori Daniele
Published: February 2022

Aromatic aldehydes are fundamental intermediates that are widely utilised for the synthesis of important materials across the broad spectrum of chemical industries. Accessing highly substituted derivatives can often be difficult as their functionalizations are generally performed via electrophilic aromatic substitution, SEAr. Here we provide an alternative and mechanistically distinct approach whereby aromatic aldehydes are assembled from saturated precursors via a desaturative process. This novel strategy harnesses the high‐fidelity of Diels–Alder cycloadditions to quickly construct multi‐substituted cyclohexenecarbaldehyde cores which undergo desaturation via the synergistic interplay of enamine, photoredox and cobalt triple catalysis.
The analysis of methylxanthine fractions obtained from Camellia sinensis cultivated in Turkey and effects on the in vitro inhibition of CYP2D6 enzyme
Authors: Attar Azade , Altikatoglu Yapaoz Melda
Published: February 2022

Tea is a worldwide consumed herbal beverage and it was aimed in this study to reveal the major fractions of green and black tea in order to enlighten the in vitro inhibition potency on the well‐known drug metabolizing enzyme CYP2D6 activity. Methylxanthine fractions were extracted from green and black tea and a yield of 0.265 g (1.06%) for 25 g of dried black tea and 0.302 g (1.2%) for 25 g of green tea was calculated. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis represented that the major components of the methylxanthine fractions were caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. Methylxanthine content of black tea was 368.25 ± 4.6 μg/ml caffeine, 89.30 ± 2.3 μg/ml theobromine, and 3.40 ± 0.5 μg/ml theophylline, whereas that of green tea was 176.50 ± 3.7 μg/ml caffeine, 53.85 ± 1.4 μg/ml theobromine, and 2.06 ± 0.7 μg/ml theophylline. The results of concentration‐dependent inhibition studies were 76% green tea, 75% black tea, and 55% caffeine at concentration of 10 mg/ml. The inhibition rates of green and black tea on CYP2D6 activity were 76% and 75%, respectively, where that of quinidine, the well‐known inhibitor of CYP2D6, was 82%. Our results indicate that green and black tea is very likely to modify the CYP2D6 enzyme activity.
Factors associated with maternal consent for use of residual newborn bloodspots in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Authors: Wong Eugene C. , Fisher Sarah C. , Feldkamp Marcia L. , Romitti Paul A. , Nestoridi Eirini , Desrosiers Tania A. ,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: February 2022

Purpose

We investigated factors associated with maternal consent to use residual newborn dried bloodspots (DBS) in a national case–control study of birth defects.

Methods

A subset of sites in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS; 1997–2011) asked participants to provide consent for investigators to retrieve DBS from local newborn screening programs to use for research on risk factors for birth defects. We assessed whether consent differed by factors including maternal age, education, parity, body mass index, language of interview, country of birth, and case–control status.

Results

Of 5,850 mothers of cases and 2,534 mothers of controls, 57% provided consent for the DBS component. Mothers of cases were more likely to participate than mothers of controls (61% vs. 52%), as were mothers who self‐reported white race, >12 years of education, and born in the United States.

Conclusions

Retrieval of DBS can be integrated into retrospective studies of neonatal outcomes including birth defects. In NBDPS, participation in the DBS component was moderate and varied by some sociodemographic factors. Further research is needed to better understand families' perspectives on using residual DBS for secondary research. Representative participation is important to reduce the potential for selection bias in future studies using DBS for children's health research.
Editorial: A case for diversity in educational research and educational practice
Authors: Biesta Gert , Wainwright Emma , Aldridge David
Published: February 2022

In this editorial we explore how diversity might matter for educational research and educational practice. We highlight that diversity constitutes a value in itself and can be valued for its consequences. We suggest that valuing diversity doesn't mean that any diversity is simply acceptable. Diversity, so we argue, requires a criterion, and we suggest that democracy may be a relevant criterion for diversity. We also argue that diversity needs a reference point so that rather than talking about diversity in the abstract, it is important to explore in what particular contexts and settings diversity may matter. Against this background we highlight the importance of methodological, conceptual and theoretical diversity in educational research, also for the sake of the diversity of educational practice.
Simulating denial increases false memory rates for abuse unrelated information
Authors: Bücken Charlotte A. , Mangiulli Ivan , Otgaar Henry
Published: February 2022

Victims of abuse might deny their traumatic experiences. We studied mnemonic effects of simulating false denial of a child sexual abuse narrative. Participants (N = 127) read and empathized with the main character of this narrative. Next, half were instructed to falsely deny abuse‐related information while others responded honestly in an interview. One week later, participants received misinformation for the narrative and interview. In a final source memory task, participants' memory for the narrative and interview was tested. Participants who falsely denied abuse‐related information endorsed more abuse‐unrelated misinformation about the event than honest participants. Abuse‐related false memory rates did not statistically differ between the groups, and false denials were not related to omission errors about (1) the interview and (2) narrative. Hence, victim's memory for abuse‐related information related to their experience might not be affected by a false denial, and inconsistencies surrounding the abuse‐unrelated information are more likely to take place.
Autologous blood injection intracoronary artery for treating slow‐flow and no‐reflow in acute coronary syndrome related to primary pci
Authors: Truong Hoai Lam , Nguyen Xuan Duy , Nguyen Duc Hung , Nguyen Tuan Long
Published: February 2022

Slow‐flow and no‐reflow phenomenon are taken to sudden loss of coronary artery flow, typically after stenting or angioplasty in primary PCI. Otherwise conventional therapy, we report a technique, which autologous blood into intracoronary to supply oxygen and break process thrombosis results in successfully management no‐reflow in primary PCI in ACS.
Coexistence of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and adult‐onset Still's disease
Authors: Ben Salah Raida , Bouattour Yosra , Turki Chourouk , Frikha Faten , Bahloul Zouhir
Published: February 2022

The association of Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and adult‐onset Still's disease (AOSD) is very uncommon. Hereby, we present a case of TTP occurring in patient with a known AOSD and the successful outcome after plasma exchanges.
“Burgundy wine” pleural effusion: An unusual manifestation of acute bacterial empyema
Authors: Kuwahara Daichi , Okazaki Akihito
Published: February 2022

Although empyema diagnosis by thoracentesis is relatively straightforward, the pleural effusion can sometimes be bloody rather than purulent. We report a case of acute empyema with a dark‐red bloody effusion, wherein multiple anaerobic bacteria were detected. Chest imaging findings improved with pleural drainage, intrapleural fibrinolytic therapy, and intravenous antibiotic treatment.
Preoperative diagnosis of gallbladder torsion by magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography: A case report
Authors: Miyata Takashi , San‐nomiya Yuta , Nagayama Taigo , Kin Ryosuke , Nishiki Hisashi , Hashimoto Akifumi , Fujii Yoritaka , Miura Seiko , Kaida Daisuke , Tomita Yasuto , Nakamura Naohiko , Miyashita Tomoharu , Fujita Hideto , Ueda Nobuhiko , Takamura Hiroyuki
Published: February 2022

Gallbladder torsion is a rare and potentially fatal condition presenting with acute abdominal pain. Gallbladder torsion requires early diagnosis and treatment; however, preoperative diagnosis is difficult. In the present case, magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography provided definitive imaging findings and was very useful in making the preoperative diagnosis.
Carbohydrate‐Functionalized Triazolylidene Iridium Complexes: Hydrogenation Catalysis in Water with Asymmetric Induction
Authors: Byrne Joseph P. , Delgado Lidia , Paradisi Francesca , Albrecht Martin
Published: February 2022

Two sets of carbohydrate‐NHC hybrid iridium complexes were synthesised in order to combine properties of carbohydrates and triazolylidene (trz) ligands in organometallic catalysis. One set features a direct trz linkage to the anomeric carbohydrate carbon, while the second set is comprised of an ethyl linker between the two functional units. Deprotection of the carbohydrate afforded hybrid complexes that efficiently catalyse the direct hydrogenation of ketones in water. The catalytic activity of the hybrid complexes was influenced by the pH of the aqueous medium and surpassed the activity of carbohydrate‐free or acetyl‐protected analogues (>90 % vs 13 % yield). While no enantiomeric induction was observed for the ethyl‐linked hybrids, a moderate enantiomeric excess (ee) was induced by the directly linked systems. Moreover, these carbohydrate‐trz hybrid complexes displayed mixed inhibitory activity towards a glycosidase from H. orenii that contain a glucose binding site.
Total Synthesis and Structure Correction of the Cyclic Lipodepsipeptide Orfamide A
Authors: Bando Yuko , Hou Yu , Seyfarth Lydia , Probst Jannik , Götze Sebastian , Bogacz Marta , Hellmich Ute A. , Stallforth Pierre , Mittag Maria , Arndt Hans‐Dieter
Published: February 2022

A total synthesis of the cyclic lipodepsipeptide natural product orfamide A was achieved. By developing a synthesis format using an aminoacid ester building block and SPPS protocol adaptation, a focused library of target compounds was obtained, in high yield and purity. Spectral and LC‐HRMS data of all library members with the isolated natural product identified the 5Leu residue to be d‐ and the 3’‐OH group to be R‐configured. The structural correction of orfamide A by chemical synthesis and analysis was confirmed by biological activity comparison in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, which indicated compound configuration to be important for bioactivity. Acute toxicity was also found against Trypanosoma brucei, the parasite causing African sleeping sickness.
Behavioral Testing Design for Evaluation of Cognitive Disabilities
Authors: Riet Fabrice , Mittelhaeuser Christophe , Lux Aline , Bour Raphael , Selloum Mohammed , Sorg Tania , Herault Yann , Meziane Hamid
Published: February 2022

Intellectual disabilities (ID) constitute a class of human neurodevelopmental diseases and are a major medical and socioeconomic problem owing to their high incidence and enormous burden to the families of those affected. In the past three decades, mutant mouse technologies have provided powerful tools for elucidating the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying behavioral and developmental alterations related to IDs and for addressing new therapeutic strategies, and major progress has been made revealing previously unidentified genes involved in ID. However, the pathological hallmarks of IDs are very heterogeneous in regard to both the functional deficits observed and the severity of the phenotype, even within the same mutation types. For this reason, an appropriate experimental design is required to reduce the risk of false negatives and positives in animal functional genomic studies. This experimental design should address functions important to evaluate, tests, and the appropriate workflow. Here, we propose an extensive behavioral screen with detailed protocols, which was successfully used in a systematic mouse functional genomic approach to gain pathway‐based insights into mechanisms leading to cognitive dysfunction in humans. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Assessment of circadian activity and ingestive behavior

Basic Protocol 2: Assessment of neurological reflexes and motor abilities using the grip and rotarod tests

Basic Protocol 3: Evaluation of anxiety‐related behavior using the elevated plus maze

Basic Protocol 4: Evaluation of recognition memory using the object recognition task

Basic Protocol 5: Evaluation of social behavior using the social recognition test

Basic Protocol 6: Evaluation of working memory using the Y‐maze spontaneous alternation test

Basic Protocol 7: Evaluation of emotional learning and memory using the fear conditioning test
Visualizing Endogenous Necrosomes in Necrosomes by In Situ Proximity Ligation Assay
Authors: Liang Wei , Yuan Junying
Published: February 2022

Necroptosis is a regulated form of necrosis that has been shown to participate in the pathogenesis of major human inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Formation of a necrosome, composed of the RIPK1/RIPK3 complex, drives the execution of necroptosis. Although the co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) assay has been widely used as a biochemical protocol for studying necrosomes, the technical limitations of co‐IP prevent its use for identifying necrosomes in complex tissues and for investigating the subcellular localization of necrosomes. The development of a specific assay for visualizing necrosomes in situ is needed. Here, we developed an in situ proximity ligation assay (PLA), which converts the detection of protein‐protein interaction to detection of DNA product by rolling‐circle amplification for investigating the endogenous necrosome in situ and in tissues. This protocol describes an in situ PLA that we have developed for visualizing endogenous necrosomes in necroptosis in both human and mouse cells and in mouse embryos with sensitivity and specificity. © 2022 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Detection of RIPK1/RIPK3 interaction by in situ proximity ligation assay in human and mouse cells
Measurements of hydrocortisone and cortisone for longitudinal profiling of equine plasma by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Tou Kathy , Cawley Adam , Bowen Christopher , Sornalingam Kireesan , Fu Shanlin
Published: February 2022

The conventional detection of exogenous drugs in equine doping samples has been used for confirmation and subsequent prosecution of participants responsible. In recent years, alternative methods using indirect detection have been investigated due to the expanding number of pharmaceutical agents available with the potential of misuse. The monitoring of endogenous biomarkers such as hydrocortisone (HC) has been studied in equine urine with an international threshold of 1 μg/ml established; however, there is no current threshold for equine plasma. The aim of this research was to investigate plasma concentrations of HC and cortisone (C) in race day samples compared to an administration of Triamcinolone Acetonide (TACA). The reference population (n = 1150) provided HC (6 to 145 ng/ml) and C (0.7 to 13 ng/ml) levels to derive the HC to C ratio (HC/C). Population reference limits (PRLs) were proposed for HC/C values at 0.2 (lower) and 61 (upper). Administration of TACA resulted in down‐regulation of HC/C values below the estimated PRLs for up to 96 h post‐administration. This indirect detection period was longer than the detection of TACA for 72 h. The use of individual reference limits (IRLs) for HC/C values was investigated to support the Equine Biological Passport (EBP), an intelligence model developed by Racing NSW for longitudinal monitoring of biomarkers.
Metabolomics in clinical and forensic toxicology, sports anti‐doping and veterinary residues
Authors: Keen Bethany , Cawley Adam , Reedy Brian , Fu Shanlin
Published: February 2022

Metabolomics is a multidisciplinary field providing workflows for complementary approaches to conventional analytical determinations. It allows for the study of metabolically related groups of compounds or even the study of novel pathways within the biological system. The procedural stages of metabolomics; experimental design, sample preparation, analytical determinations, data processing and statistical analysis, compound identification and validation strategies are explored in this review. The selected approach will depend on the type of study being conducted. Experimental design influences the whole metabolomics workflow and thus needs to be properly assessed to ensure sufficient sample size, minimal introduced and biological variation and appropriate statistical power. Sample preparation needs to be simple, yet potentially global in order to detect as many compounds as possible. Analytical determinations need to be optimised either for the list of targeted compounds or a universal approach. Data processing and statistical analysis approaches vary widely and need to be better harmonised for review and interpretation. This includes validation strategies that are currently deficient in many presented workflows. Common compound identification approaches have been explored in this review. Metabolomics applications are discussed for clinical and forensic toxicology, human and equine sports anti‐doping and veterinary residues.
Validation of a single liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry approach for oxytetracycline determination in bull plasma, seminal plasma and urine
Authors: Bardhi Anisa , Gazzotti Teresa , Pagliuca Giampiero , Mari Gaetano , Barbarossa Andrea
Published: February 2022

Oxytetracycline is a broad‐spectrum antibiotic, which inhibits protein synthesis and is generally used for the treatment of pneumonia, shipping fever, leptospirosis and wound infections in cattle and swine. The present work proposes a novel liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method for oxytetracycline quantification in bull plasma, seminal plasma and urine, requiring limited sample treatment before analysis. Extraction with trichloroacetic acid followed by dilution of the supernatant in mobile phase proved to be effective in all three matrices, allowing to rapidly process large batches of samples. Sharp and symmetrical peak shape was obtained using a BEH C18 reversed‐phase column in a chromatographic run of just 3.5 min. The mass spectrometer operated in positive electrospray ionization mode and monitored specific transitions for oxytetracycline (461.1 → 425.8) and the internal standard demeclocycline (465.0 → 447.6). The method was validated over concentration ranges suitable for field concentrations of oxytetracycline found in each matrix, showing good linearity during each day of testing (R2 always >0.99), as also confirmed by analysis of variance (ANOVA) and lack‐of‐fit tests. Excellent accuracy and precision were demonstrated by calculated bias always within ±15% and CV% below 10% at all quality control (QC) levels in the three matrices. Matrix effect and recovery were investigated for both analytes, which showed consistent and comparable behaviour in each matrix. To our knowledge, this is the first validated approach for mass spectrometric determination of oxytetracycline in seminal plasma and urine. The method was successfully applied to samples collected during a pharmacokinetic study in bulls, allowing to assess the oxytetracycline concentration–time profile in plasma, seminal plasma and urine.
Source of the aeolian sediments in the Yarlung Tsangpo valley and its potential dust contribution to adjacent oceans
Authors: Ling Zhiyong , Yang Shengli , Xia Dunsheng , Wang Xin , Chen Fahu
Published: February 2022

Surface sediments such as aeolian sand, loess/sandy loess, and fluvial/alluvial clastics are widespread in the Yarlung Tsangpo (YT) catchment and across the Tibetan Plateau (TP). However, it is debated whether the source of the aeolian sediments is local or remote, involving transport across large regions, and whether the surface sediments, especially aeolian deposits, are a major source of global dust. Here, we use strontium‐neodymium (Sr‐Nd) isotopic analysis and modern observations of dust emissions to investigate the provenance of aeolian sediments from the YT catchment and adjacent areas during different periods (modern, Holocene, Late Pleistocene), and the relationship between surface sediments of the TP and the dust component of sediments in the Japan Sea and the North Pacific Ocean. Strontium‐87/strontium‐86 (87Sr/86Sr) and neodymium isotopic ratio (εNd) show a wide range of variation in different areas (87Sr/86Sr varies from 0.707996 to 0.731078, and εNd from −6.2 to −13.6), influenced by the composition of the clastic material derived from the local parent rock; additionally, there are no significant variations between size fractions. Due to local recycling the aeolian sedimentary systems in the southern TP are supplied with clastic material from proximal sources, and they are unlikely to receive large quantities of long‐range dust transported from regions such as the Taklimakan desert in Central Asia. Dust emission occurs mainly in the dry season (from March to May) and the dust is carried on the upper‐level westerly jet stream and then deposited downwind in the Japan Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, thus contributing to global dust.
Machine learning for power control in device‐to‐device communications with full‐duplex relays using ITLinQ spectrum sharing scheme
Authors: Taheri Hanjani Zahra , Mohammadi Abbas , Dosaranian‐Moghadam Mohamad , Kazemi Mohammad
Published: February 2022

A proposed mechanism for interference management and scheduling links in device‐to‐device (D2D) networks with full‐duplex relays (FDRs) is FDR‐information theoretic links scheduling (FDR‐ITLinQ).This article employs a machine learning (ML) technique with the FDR ITLinQ spectrum sharing method in D2D communications. In this article, transmission powers of transmitters and corresponding relays are determined with a Full‐duplex relay (PC) mechanism employing genetic algorithm (GA). The objective function is maximizing two main criteria of evaluation of network performance. The first criterion is the average sum rate (ASR), and the second is energy efficiency (EE). In addition, addressing two objectives simultaneously leads to a trade‐off between ASR and EE. Therefore, employing the ML strategy, we determine the transmission powers of transmitters and their corresponding relay pairs. The ML strategy has more flexibility and lower computational complexity in comparison to the traditional optimization methods. The proposed neural network (NN) considers the channel coefficients as inputs and optimal power for transmitters and relays as outputs. The optimal allocated power for new situations and conditions are predicted via trained NN. The simulation results show that the PC mechanism that uses the ML approach has almost the same performance as GA. However, the superiority of ML approach over GA is that the calculation time and system complexity are reduced, which, in turn, makes the proposed scheme applicable to implement in practical networks.
Chemical constituents and bioactivities of hops (Humulus lupulus L.) and their effects on beer‐related microorganisms
Authors: Sun Shaokang , Wang Xiaochen , Yuan Ai , Liu Jianlin , Li Zebin , Xie Dongxiao , Zhang Huimin , Luo Wenqing , Xu Hengyuan , Liu Jinshang , Nie Cong , Zhang Haojun
Published: February 2022

The female inflorescence of hops is traditionally used in the brewing industry to impart bitterness, aroma, flavour and longer shelf life to beer, where the bittering acids are the main compounds that enhance the quality of the beer. In recent years, a wide variety of bioactive compounds have been reported to be present in female flowers. Due to the growing consumer interests in natural ingredients, a great deal of research has been carried out in the last few years to find new sources of functional biomolecules. This paper reviews the recent applications of hops in the food, pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries and provides an overview of the bioactive potential of hops. In addition, the analytical techniques of hops compound are reviewed. The biological activities of hops compound such as antibacterial, antifungal, cardioprotective, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and anticancer are reviewed and the recent effects of hop bittering derivatives on beer‐related microbial activity are also presented. It is thus clear that hops have a high potential as bioactive components for use as preservatives in fresh foods to extend shelf life and as cosmetic formulations for skin care products as well as nutraceutical and health implications.
Efficacy of programmed cell death 1 inhibitor maintenance therapy after combined treatment with programmed cell death 1 inhibitors and anti‐CD19‐chimeric antigen receptor T cells in patients with relapsed/refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and high tumor burden
Authors: Mu Juan , Deng Haobin , Lyu Cuicui , Yuan Jijun , Li Qing , Wang Jia , Jiang Yanyu , Deng Qi , Shen Jichun
Published: February 2022

We studied the efficacy and safety of the combined treatment with programmed cell death 1 (PD‐1) inhibitors and anti‐CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy and subsequent PD‐1 inhibitor maintenance treatment in patients with relapsed/refractory (R/R) diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and high tumor burden. Forty‐four R/R DLBCL patients with high tumor burden were enrolled in this study. The experimental group of 26 patients received combined therapy with PD‐1 inhibitors and anti‐CD19‐CAR T cells, while the control group of 18 patients received anti‐CD19‐CAR T‐cell therapy alone. The objective response rate (ORR) was 65.39% and 61.11% in the combination and control groups, respectively. The PD‐1 inhibitor maintenance therapy was selected for patients who achieved complete response or partial response in the combination therapy group. Progression‐free survival and overall survival rates in the combination group were higher than those in the control group 3 and 12 months after CAR T‐cell infusion. There was no significant difference in the grade of cytokine release syndrome or immune effector cell associated neurotoxic syndrome between the two groups. In the maintenance therapy group, only eight patients experienced grade 1 Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) and three grade 2 CTCAE. Overall, we found that the ORR was not affected by the combination therapy with PD‐1 inhibitors and anti‐CD19‐CAR T cells. However, patients who had achieved the ORR might benefit from PD‐1 inhibitor maintenance therapy after combination therapy without increased side effects.
Health system resilience and health workforce capacities: Comparing health system responses during the COVID‐19 pandemic in six European countries
Authors: Burau Viola , Falkenbach Michelle , Neri Stefano , Peckham Stephen , Wallenburg Iris , Kuhlmann Ellen
Published: February 2022

Background

The health workforce is a key component of any health system and the present crisis offers a unique opportunity to better understand its specific contribution to health system resilience. The literature acknowledges the importance of the health workforce, but there is little systematic knowledge about how the health workforce matters across different countries.

Aims

We aim to analyse the adaptive, absorptive and transformative capacities of the health workforce during the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Europe (January‐May/June 2020), and to assess how health systems prerequisites influence these capacities.

Materials and Methods

We selected countries according to different types of health systems and pandemic burdens. The analysis is based on short, descriptive country case studies, using written secondary and primary sources and expert information.

Results and Discussion

Our analysis shows that in our countries, the health workforce drew on a wide range of capacities during the first wave of the pandemic. However, health systems prerequisites seemed to have little influence on the health workforce's specific combinations of capacities.

Conclusion

This calls for a reconceptualisation of the institutional perquisites of health system resilience to fully grasp the health workforce contribution. Here, strengthening governance emerges as key to effective health system responses to the COVID‐19 crisis, as it integrates health professions as frontline workers and collective actors.
Trends and attribution analysis of modelled evapotranspiration on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Zhang Haoyu , Wang Shuai , Ye Chongchong , Wang Yaping
Published: February 2022

Evapotranspiration (ET) is an important part of the hydrological cycle, significantly influencing water distribution, energy cycle, and plant growth. In the context of global warming and acceleration of the water cycle, it is of great significance to analyse the trend and attribution of ET on the Tibetan Plateau (TP), which is most a sensitive and vulnerable area of the world. In this article, ET products, obtained from the improved Penman–Monteith–Leuning model with 1 km spatial resolution and 8 days temporal resolution, were used to investigate the trend and attribution of modelled ET and its components on the TP during the 2003–2017 period. The modelling results show the ET, soil evaporation (E), and vegetation transpiration (T) present a highly similar spatial pattern, with a distinct decreasing gradient from the humid southeastern areas to the arid northwestern areas of the plateau. In terms of its components, E (269 mm yr−1) contributes about 70% of ET (385 mm yr−1), especially in the northwestern region. Although the relationship between ET and elevation is not clear, the results showed that E increased with elevation, while T exhibited the opposite trend. At the same time, approximately 80% of the grids showed an increasing trend (increasing at a rate of 4.7 mm yr−1), mainly concentrated in the southeastern area, where the increased ET in forests and alpine meadows was the most obvious. Variations of modelled ET on the TP is distinguished into energy‐restricted and water‐restricted regions, corresponding respectively to the eastern region affected by temperature, and the western region controlled by soil moisture. The results of the present study can greatly improve our understanding of the hydrological cycle and the ability to manage water resources on the TP within the context of global climate change.
Two‐dimensional MXenes: New frontier of wearable and flexible electronics
Authors: Ahmed Abbas , Sharma Sudeep , Adak Bapan , Hossain Md Milon , LaChance Anna Marie , Mukhopadhyay Samrat , Sun Luyi
Published: February 2022

Wearable electronics offer incredible benefits in mobile healthcare monitoring, sensing, portable energy harvesting and storage, human‐machine interactions, etc., due to the evolution of rigid electronics structure to flexible and stretchable devices. Lately, transition metal carbides and nitrides (MXenes) are highly regarded as a group of thriving two‐dimensional nanomaterials and extraordinary building blocks for emerging flexible electronics platforms because of their excellent electrical conductivity, enriched surface functionalities, and large surface area. This article reviews the most recent developments in MXene‐enabled flexible electronics for wearable electronics. Several MXene‐enabled electronic devices designed on a nanometric scale are highlighted by drawing attention to widely developed nonstructural attributes, including 3D configured devices, textile and planer substrates, bioinspired structures, and printed materials. Furthermore, the unique progress of these nanodevices is highlighted by representative applications in healthcare, energy, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, and humanoid control of machines. The emerging prospects of MXene nanomaterials as a key frontier in next‐generation wearable electronics are envisioned and the design challenges of these electronic systems are also discussed, followed by proposed solutions.

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