bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
π–π Interaction‐Induced Organic Long‐wavelength Room‐Temperature Phosphorescence for In Vivo Atherosclerotic Plaque Imaging
Authors: Zhang Yufan , Li Jisen , Zhao Jiliang , Li Xuefei , Wang Zhimei , Huang Yicheng , Zhang Hongkai , Liu Qian , Lei Yunxiang , Ding Dan
Published: December 2023

Room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have great potential for in vivo imaging because they can circumvent the autofluorescence of biological tissues. In this study, a class of organic‐doped long‐wavelength (≈600 nm) RTP materials with benzo[c][1,2,5] thiadiazole as a guest was constructed. Both host and guest molecules have simple structures and can be directly purchased commercially at a low cost. Owing to the long phosphorescence wavelength of the doping system, it exhibited good tissue penetration (10 mm). Notably, these RTP nanoparticles were successfully used to image atherosclerotic plaques, with a signal‐to‐background ratio (SBR) of 44.52. This study provides a new approach for constructing inexpensive red organic phosphorescent materials and a new method for imaging cardiovascular diseases using these materials.
Wavelength Selective Photocontrol of Hybrid Azobenzene‐Spiropyran Photoswitches with Overlapping Chromophores
Authors: Saßmannshausen Torben , Kunz Anne , Oberhof Nils , Schneider Friederike , Slavov Chavdar , Dreuw Andreas , Wachtveitl Josef , Wegner Hermann A.
Published: December 2023

Compounds with multiple photoswitching units are appealing for complex photochemical control of molecular materials and nanostructures. Herein, we synthesized novel meta‐ and para‐ connected (related to the nitrogen of the indoline) azobenzene‐spiropyran dyads, in which the central benzene unit is shared by both switches. We investigated their photochemistry using static and time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy as well as quantum chemical calculations. In the meta‐compound, the individual components are photochemically decoupled due to the meta‐pattern. In the para‐compound the spiro‐connectivity leads to a bifunctional photoswitchable system with a red‐shifted absorption. The azobenzene and the spiropyran can thus be addressed and switched independently by light of appropriate wavelength. Through the different connectivity patterns two different orthogonally photoswitchable systems have been obtained which are promising candidates for complex applications of light control.
Counterion Effect in Cobaltate‐Catalyzed Alkene Hydrogenation
Authors: Gawron Martin , Gilch Franziska , Schmidhuber Daniel , Kelly John A. , Horsley Downie Thomas M. , Jacobi von Wangelin Axel , Rehbein Julia , Wolf Robert
Published: December 2023

We show that countercations exert a remarkable influence on the ability of anionic cobaltate salts to catalyze challenging alkene hydrogenations. An evaluation of the catalytic properties of [Cat][Co(η4‐cod)2] (Cat=K (1), Na (2), Li (3), (Depnacnac)Mg (4), and N(nBu)4 (5); cod=1,5‐cyclooctadiene, Depnacnac={2,6‐Et2C6H3NC(CH3)}2CH)]) demonstrated that the lithium salt 3 and magnesium salt 4 drastically outperform the other catalysts. Complex 4 was the most active catalyst, which readily promotes the hydrogenation of highly congested alkenes under mild conditions. A plausible catalytic mechanism is proposed based on density functional theory (DFT) investigations. Furthermore, combined molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and DFT studies were used to examine the turnover‐limiting migratory insertion step. The results of these studies suggest an active co‐catalytic role of the counterion in the hydrogenation reaction through the coordination to cobalt hydride intermediates.
Insulin‐like Growth Factor 2‐Tagged Aptamer Chimeras (ITACs) Modular Assembly for Targeted and Efficient Degradation of Two Membrane Proteins
Authors: Tian Yuan , Miao Yanyan , Guo Pei , Wang Junyan , Han Da
Published: December 2023

Overexpression of pathogenic membrane proteins drives abnormal proliferation and invasion of tumor cells. Various strategies to durably knockdown membrane proteins with heterobifunctional degraders have been successfully developed, including LYTAC, KineTAC, and AbTAC. However, challenges including complicated synthetic procedures and the inability to simultaneously degrade multiple pathogenic proteins still exist. Herein, we developed insulin‐like growth factor 2 (IGF2)‐tagged aptamer chimeras (ITACs) that link the cell‐surface lysosome‐targeting receptor IGF2R and membrane proteins of interest (POIs) based on specific recognition of aptamers to the POIs and high‐affinity binding of IGF2 to IGF2R. We demonstrated that ITACs exhibit robust degradation efficiency of various membrane proteins in multiple cell lines. Furthermore, systematic studies revealed that a moderate cell‐surface IGF2R level is responsible for the excellent degradation performance of ITACs. Importantly, we further established a modular assembly strategy that allows assembly of one IGF2 with two aptamers with precise stoichiometry (dITACs), enabling cooperative and simultaneous degradation of two membrane proteins. This work provides an efficient and facile target membrane protein degradation platform and will shed light on the treatment of diseases related to the overexpression of membrane proteins.
Metal‐Free 1,3‐Boronate Rearrangement to Ketones Driven by Visible Light
Authors: Hao Kejia , Li Defang , Fu Dongmin , Zou Peng , Xie Shasha , Lan Yu , Chen Yiyun
Published: December 2023

Boronate rearrangements, such as the Matteson and Petasis reactions, are valuable metal‐free reactions for the transfer of the carbo group on boron to intramolecular electrophilic sites. However, only highly reactive electrophiles are suitable, and ketones are too inactive for those boronate rearrangements due to the high energy barriers. We disclose here the 1,3‐boronate rearrangement to ketones, for which a high energy barrier (44.9 kcal/mol) is prohibitory for thermal reactions in the ground state. The reaction is enabled by the key keto‐enol‐boronate bidentate complex formation in situ, which absorbs visible light to reach the excited state for the chemoselective 1,3‐boronate rearrangement to ketones. Experimental and computational investigations exclude free radical intermediates from organoboronates. The aryl, alkenyl, and alkyl boronic acids react with various 1,3‐diketones driven by visible light irradiation to construct structurally diverse β‐keto tertiary alcohols under metal‐free conditions. The reaction demonstrates substrate diversity with 58 examples, yields up to 98 %, and it is suitable for gram‐scale synthesis.
Bifunctional Peptide Nanofibrils for Targeted Protein Degradation
Authors: Lin Zongtao , Garcia Benjamin A. , Lv Dongwen
Published: December 2023

Proteolysis targeting chimera (PROTAC) is a state‐of‐the‐art technology for ablating undruggable targets. A PROTAC degrader achieves targeted protein degradation (TPD) through the simultaneous binding of a protein of interest (POI) and an E3 ligase to form a ternary complex. A nanofibril‐based PROTAC strategy to form a polynary (E3)m : PROTAC : (POI)n complex has not been reported in the TPD field up to this point. A recent innovation shows that a POI ligand and E3 ligase ligand don't have to be within a fused degrader molecule. Instead, they can be recruited to cellular proximity by a self‐assembly‐driving peptide and click chemistry. The resulting nanofibrils can recruit multiple POI and E3 ligase molecules to form a polynary complex as a degradation center. The so‐called Nano‐PROTAC provides a novel approach for TPD in cancer therapy.
Triptycene Branched Poly(aryl‐co‐aryl piperidinium) Electrolytes for Alkaline Anion Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells and Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Hu Chuan , Kang Na Yoon , Kang Hyun Woo , Lee Ju Yeon , Zhang Xiaohua , Lee Yong Jun , Jung Seung Won , Park Jong Hyeong , Kim Myeong‐Geun , Yoo Sung Jong , Lee So Young , Park Chi Hoon , Lee Young Moo
Published: December 2023

Alkaline polymer electrolytes (APEs) are essential materials for alkaline energy conversion devices such as anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs) and water electrolyzers (AEMWEs). Here, we report a series of branched poly(aryl‐co‐aryl piperidinium) with different branching agents (triptycene: highly‐rigid, three‐dimensional structure; triphenylbenzene: planar, two‐dimensional structure) for high‐performance APEs. Among them, triptycene branched APEs showed excellent hydroxide conductivity (193.5 mS cm−1@80 °C), alkaline stability, mechanical properties, and dimensional stability due to the formation of branched network structures, and increased free volume. AEMFCs based on triptycene‐branched APEs reached promising peak power densities of 2.503 and 1.705 W cm−2 at 75/100 % and 30/30 % (anode/cathode) relative humidity, respectively. In addition, the fuel cells can run stably at a current density of 0.6 A cm−2 for 500 h with a low voltage decay rate of 46 μV h−1. Importantly, the related AEMWE achieved unprecedented current densities of 16 A cm−2 and 14.17 A cm−2 (@2 V, 80 °C, 1 M NaOH) using precious and non‐precious metal catalysts, respectively. Moreover, the AEMWE can be stably operated under 1.5 A cm−2 at 60 °C for 2000 h. The excellent results suggest that the triptycene‐branched APEs are promising candidates for future AEMFC and AEMWE applications.
Phenolics of mustard seeds: A review on composition, processing effect and their bioactvities
Authors: Nguyen Thu , Nandasiri Ruchira , Fadairo Olamide , Eskin N. A. Michael
Published: December 2023

Mustard seeds have been used since ancient times contributing great economic value to global agriculture. Canada, one of the world's top producers, grows three main mustard varieties, white /yellow, (Brassica hirta/Sinapis alba), black (Brassica nigra) and Oriental (Brassica juncea). Besides their high protein and lipid content, mustard varieties are a rich source of phenolic compounds. This review will cover mustard seed components including lipids, glucosinolates, and sinapates. The latter are the main phenolic compounds in mustard and include sinapine, sinapic acid and its conversion to canolol. The important bioactivities associated with mustard phenolics, has led to efforts to improve the methods for their extraction. The use of green technology is crucial for producing these phenolics while minimizing any detrimental effects to the environment. The important antioxidant and anticancer activities of these phenolics will also be reviewed.
Ecological correlates of three‐dimensional muscle architecture within the dietarily diverse Strepsirrhini
Authors: Dickinson Edwin , Manzo Madison , Davis Cassidy E. , Kolli Shruti , Schwenk Alysa , Carter Ashley , Liu Cindy , Vasipalli Nimi , Ratkiewicz Aleksandra , Deutsch Ashley R. , Granatosky Michael C. , Hartstone‐Rose Adam
Published: December 2023

Analysis of muscle architecture, traditionally conducted via gross dissection, has been used to evaluate adaptive relationships between anatomical form and behavioral function. However, gross dissection cannot preserve three‐dimensional relationships between myological structures for analysis. To analyze such data, we employ diffusible, iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (DiceCT) to explore the relationships between feeding ecology and masticatory muscle microanatomy in eight dietarily diverse strepsirrhines: allowing, for the first time, preservation of three‐dimensional fascicle orientation and tortuosity across a functional comparative sample. We find that fascicle properties derived from these digital analyses generally agree with those measured from gross‐dissected conspecifics. Physiological cross‐sectional area was greatest in species with mechanically challenging diets. Frugivorous taxa and the wood‐gouging species all exhibit long jaw adductor fascicles, while more folivorous species show the shortest relative jaw adductor fascicle lengths. Fascicle orientation in the parasagittal plane also seems to have a clear dietary association: most folivorous taxa have masseter and temporalis muscle vectors that intersect acutely while these vectors intersect obliquely in more frugivorous species. Finally, we observed notably greater magnitudes of fascicle tortuosity, as well as greater interspecific variation in tortuosity, within the jaw adductor musculature than in the jaw abductors. While the use of a single specimen per species precludes analysis of intraspecific variation, our data highlight the diversity of microanatomical variation that exists within the strepsirrhine feeding system and suggest that muscle architectural configurations are evolutionarily labile in response to dietary ecology—an observation to be explored across larger samples in the future.
Cross‐sectoral citrus sugarcane biorefinery: polyhydroxyalkanoates production in Brazil
Authors: Kanbe Mariana Teixeira , da Silva Luiziana Ferreira , Gomez José Gregório Cabrera
Published: December 2023

Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHA) are naturally occurring polyesters accumulated by bacteria under conditions of inorganic nutrient limitations and excess carbon. They offer renewable and biodegradable alternatives to petroleum‐based polymers, especially those used in transient single‐use applications. However, PHA still faces high production costs, primarily linked to the carbon source, lower productivity in processes and an early stage of technical development in comparison with well‐established fossil‐based polymers, which challenge its transition to a true commodity market. Recent research has highlighted the potential of renewable, inexpensive, abundant and non‐edible carbon‐rich residues from agriculture, municipal solid waste and industrial byproducts as alternative carbon sources in developing the production process. Recognizing Brazil's position as the leading producer of both citrus and sugarcane, this review introduces a novel citrus–sugarcane biorefinery model for PHA production, capitalizing on the geographical and operational synergies of both sectors. The proposed model integrates wet citrus pulp as a second‐generation carbon source, sugarcane industry fermenters, waste management, solvents and renewable energy from both sectors. Primary challenges involve the need for efficient, low‐cost biomass pre‐treatment to remove limonene and partially extract citric pectin, coupled with the partial hydrolysis of pectin to enhance solubility and reduce viscosity. Additional considerations include determining citrus biomass composition and sugar consumption, screening bacterial diversity for optimal PHA production, and deepening our understanding of the metabolic pathways underpinning the catabolism of citrus residues. Future research should focus on enhancing PHA concentrations and diversity and finally conducting life cycle assessment studies to evaluate the sustainability and feasibility of this proposed model.
A novel sustainable second‐derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric method for the simultaneous determination of olmesartan medoxomil and rosuvastatin calcium in bulk and formulations: Integrated greenness and whiteness evaluation
Authors: Batakoushy Hany A. , Nasr Zeinab Adel , Soliman Marwa M. , Barghash Sona S. , Fouad Fatma A. , Barseem Aya
Published: December 2023

The present research has established a quick and highly sensitive second‐derivative synchronous fluorometric technique for the simultaneous quantification of a binary mixture of olmesartan medoxomil and rosuvastatin calcium. Simultaneously, the suggested approach was used to detect the synchronous fluorescence intensity of the cited drugs at Δ λ = 80 nm in ethanol to determine the concentrations of olmesartan medoxomil and rosuvastatin calcium at 265 and 240 nm, respectively. Various experimental conditions were tested, and each variable was analyzed and optimized. The calibration graphs were shown to be linear within ranges of 0.1–2.0 and 0.5–6.0 μg ml−1 for each drug concentration, respectively. The newly developed Green Solvents Selecting Tool (GSST) was utilized to assess the solvent's sustainability. Furthermore, the proposed method was found to be environmentally friendly after being evaluated with three different tools [the Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI), the Analytical Greenness Metric (AGREE), and the Analytical Eco‐Scale with Eco‐score equal to 95]. The whiteness qualities were also studied using the Red–Green–Blue (RGB12) model, which was recently designed and showed a high score equal to 92.9. The proposed method’s good findings, as well as its ongoing sustainability, simplicity, and economy, stimulate its application in QC laboratories.
Demonstrating the immunostimulatory and cytokine‐augmentation effects of bacterial ghosts on natural killer cells and Caenorhabditis Elegans
Authors: Narayanan Sreeja , Baburajan Adheena Panangattu , Muhammad Mumtaz , Joseph Andrea , Vemula Praveen Kumar , Bhat Sarita Ganapathy
Published: December 2023

The potential of bacteria‐based immunotherapy lies in its ability to inherently enhance immune responses. However, the “liveness” of bacteria poses risks of bacterial escape, nonspecific immuno‐stimulation, and ethical concerns, limiting their acceptability in immunotherapy. In this scenario, nonliving empty bacterial‐cell envelopes, named bacterial ghosts (BGs), have emerged as immuno‐stimulants with the potential to side‐step the limitations of live bacterial therapies. This study demonstrates the capability of BGs in modulating the functionality of NK‐92 cells and Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans), as well as perform as cytokine‐therapy adjuvants. BGs were obtained through a pH‐driven culture method, and were validated for their structural and chemical integrity via electron microscopy and spectroscopy. In NK‐92 cells, BGs have shown significant immuno‐stimulation by boosting the gene‐expression of perforin, granzyme‐B, Fas‐L, and interferon‐gamma by factors of 3.5‐, 1.5‐, 12.5‐, and 8.6‐folds, respectively. Combined BG and IL‐12 treatment yielded a notable 10.2‐fold increase in interferon‐gamma protein expression in 24 h. The BGs also significantly influenced the innate immune response in C. elegans through the upregulation of lysozyme genes viz., ilys‐3 (8.8‐fold) and lys‐2 (3.1‐fold). Our investigation into the impact of BGs on natural killer cells and C. elegans highlights its potential as a valid alternative approach for new‐age immunotherapy and cytokine augmentation.
The pathway towards circular economy: Measuring circular advantage of eco‐innovations
Authors: Brogi Stefano , Menichini Tamara
Published: December 2023

Eco‐Innovation (EI) emerges as an enabler of Circular Economy (CE). A shift to the CE is a powerful opportunity for companies to create significant financial and economic value for business and society: the so‐called “circular advantage”. Companies have a crucial role as accelerators of the CE transition, although the identification and exploitation of CE opportunities that derive from trasformative EI being essential. With the aim to develop a multidimensional and multi‐actor approach to innovation in CE the present paper proposes an integrated Multi‐Criteria Decision‐Making (MCDM) method based on fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Interval‐Valued Triangular Fuzzy Numbers Additive Ratio ASsessment (IVTFN‐ARAS). The proposed method is conceived as a tool to evaluate the ability of Eco‐Innovative solutions to trigger company adoption of CE business models, the exploitation of disruptive technologies, and the enforcement of dynamic capabilities, which are all recognized as drivers of CE advantage. An illustrative application to a set of EU‐funded Eco‐Innovative projects is presented to clarify how the method works in practice. Discussion and suggestions for future research offer guidance to use the method as a policy‐making instrument.
Components of the tumor immune microenvironment based on m‐IHC correlate with prognosis and subtype of triple‐negative breast cancer
Authors: Lin Luyi , Li Haiming , Wang Xin , Wang Zezhou , Su Guanhua , Zhou Jiayin , Sun Shiyun , Ma Xiaowen , Chen Yan , You Chao , Gu Yajia
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

The spatial distribution and interactions of cells in the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) might be related to the different responses of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) to immunomodulators. The potential of multiplex IHC (m‐IHC) in evaluating the TIME has been reported, but the efficacy is insufficient. We aimed to research whether m‐IHC results could be used to reflect the TIME, and thus to predict prognosis and complement the TNBC subtyping system.

Methods

The clinical, imaging, and prognosis data for 86 TNBC patients were retrospectively reviewed. CD3, CD4, CD8, Foxp3, PD‐L1, and Pan‐CK markers were stained by m‐IHC. Particular cell spatial distributions and interactions in the TIME were evaluated with the HALO multispectral analysis platform. Then, we calculated the prognostic value of components of the TIME and their correlations with TNBC transcriptomic subtypes and MRI radiomic features reflecting TNBC subtypes.

Results

The components of the TIME score were established by m‐IHC and demonstrated positive prognostic value for TNBC (p = 0.0047, 0.039, <0.0001 for DMFS, RFS, and OS). The score was calculated from several indicators, including Treg% in the tumor core (TC) or stromal area (SA), PD‐L1+ cell% in the SA, CD3 + cell% in the TC, and PD‐L1+/CD8+ cells in the invasive margin and SA. According to the TNBC subtyping system, a few TIME indicators were significantly different in different subtypes and significantly correlated with MRI radiomic features reflecting TNBC subtypes.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that the m‐IHC‐based quantitative score and indicators related to the spatial distribution and interactions of cells in the TIME can aid in the accurate diagnosis of TNBC in terms of prognosis and classification.
Tryptophan metabolism enzymes are potential targets in ovarian clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Sumei , Gao Yike , Wang Pan , Wang Shu , Wang Yuming , Li Mei , Wang Anqi , Zhao Kun , Zhang Zixin , Sun Jian , Guo Dan , Liang Zhiyong
Published: December 2023

Aim

As the second most prevalent subtype of epithelial ovarian cancers, ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is known for its chemoresistance to conventional platinum‐based therapy. In this work, we examined the tryptophan (Trp) metabolism enzymes' differential expression in patients with OCCC to assess the potential for personalised treatment.

Methods

A total of 127 OCCC tissues were used to construct tissue microarrays, and immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining of the Trp enzymes IDO1, IDO2, TDO2 and IL4I1 was performed. The correlations between Trp enzyme expression and clinical characteristics were analysed.

Results

Positive IDO1, IDO2, TDO2 and IL4I1 staining was identified in 26.8%, 94.5%, 75.6% and 82.7% of OCCC respectively. IDO1‐positive samples were more common in the chemoresistant group than in the platinum‐sensitive group (46.7% vs. 19.8%). Moreover, positive expression of IDO1, TDO2 and IL4I1 was related to advanced stage, metastasis, bilateral tumours, endometriosis and tumour rupture (p < 0.05) respectively. Univariate analysis revealed a significant association between bilateral tumours, lymph node metastasis, advanced stage, distant metastasis and aberrant cytology with a poor prognosis for OCCC, while the absence of residual tumour was correlated with a favourable outcome (p < 0.05). However, only bilateral tumours and lymph node metastases were related to a poor prognosis after multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

This is the first study to investigate the expression of the Trp enzymes IDO1, IDO2, TDO2 and IL4I1 in OCCC tissues. IDO2, TDO2 and IL4I1 were detected in the majority of OCCC. Clinical traits were correlated with IDO1, IDO2, TDO2 and IL4I1 expression. IDO1 may be used as a therapeutic target given the large percentage of chemoresistant cases with IDO1 expression. These results will aid the development of personalised therapies for OCCC.
Trends and age, sex, and race disparities in time to second primary cancer from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Leung Tiffany H. , El Helali Aya , Wang Xiaofei , Ho James C. , Pang Herbert
Published: December 2023

Background

Despite the growth in primary cancer (PC) survivors, the trends and disparities in this population have yet to be comprehensively examined using competing risk analysis. The objective is to examine trends in time to second primary cancer (SPC) and to characterize age, sex, and racial disparities in time‐to‐SPC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted based on Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER). Two datasets for this study are (1) the discovery dataset with patients from SEER‐8 (1990–2019) and (2) the validation dataset with patients from SEER‐17 (2000–2019), excluding those in the discovery dataset. Patients were survivors of lung, colorectal, breast (female only), and prostate PCs.

Results

The 5‐year SPC cumulative incidences of lung PC increased from 1990 to 2019, with the cumulative incidence ratio being 1.73 (95% confidence intervals [CI], 1.64–1.82; p < 0.001). Age disparities among all PCs remained from 2010 to 2019, and the adjusted HRs (aHRs) of all PCs were above 1.43 when those below 65 were compared with those 65 and above. Sex disparity exists among colorectal and lung PC survivors. Racial disparities existed among non‐Hispanic (NH) Black breast PC survivors (aHR: 1.11; 95% CI: 1.07–1.17; p < 0.001). The types of SPC vary according to PC and sex.

Conclusions

Over the past three decades, there has been a noticeably shortened time‐to‐SPC among lung PC survivors. This is likely attributed to the reduced number of lung cancer deaths due to advancements in effective treatments. However, disparities in age, sex, and race still exist, indicating that further effort is needed to close the gap.
A New Method for Urea Synthesis under Environmental Conditions Based on Nucleophilic Addition Reaction During Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Li Peize , Zhang Zhiguo , Yang Xiaoju , Zhu Yanbin , Zhou Zhiming , Jiang Xingxing , Wang Qinglong , Gao Xiaowu , Yang Xuan , Shen Yan , Wang Mingkui
Published: December 2023

Urea (H2NCONH2) is a commercially indispensable chemical as a fertilizer and starting material for the manufacture of many other products. Currently, commercial urea can be prepared with an energy‐consuming process by combining liquid ammonia (NH3) and liquid carbon dioxide (CO2) under high‐temperature and high‐pressure conditions. An alternative approach for synthesis of urea may involve electrochemical synthesis reactions that occur under aqueous and ambient conditions. Here, we propose synthesis of urea via nucleophilic addition reaction during an electrochemical CO2 reduction process in NH4HCO3‐containing electrolytes. The urea formation at a rate of 0.11 mmol g−1 h−1 was achieved on a polycrystalline Au electrode (area: 1 cm2) at a potential of −1.4 V (vs. saturated calomel electrode). Furthermore, the detailed investigations including in‐situ spectroscopic analysis and isotopic labeling characterization reveal the capability of producing urea could be mainly attributed to a spontaneous reaction between the NH3 molecule and the CO2⋅− intermediate. This study promotes the exploration of electrochemical synthesis of high‐value‐added products.
Investigating the Influence of Amorphous/Crystalline Interfaces on the Stability of IrO2 for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Acidic Electrolyte
Authors: Nga Ngo (Sarah Ngo) Thi Hong , Love Jonathan , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: December 2023

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the group of Prof. Anthony O'Mullane from the School of Chemistry and Physics, Queensland University of Technology (QUT). The cover picture shows the presence of crystalline and amorphous domains in an electrodeposited IrO2 film which demonstrate different activity for the oxygen evolution reaction. The presence of amorphous/crystalline interfaces was found to improve the stability of the electrocatalyst. Cover design by Thi Hong Nga Ngo. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300438.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Benzimidazole Atropisomers Featuring a N‐N Axis†
Authors: Ge Fang‐Bei , Yin Qi‐Kun , Lu Chuan‐Jun , Xuan Xuan , Feng Jia , Liu Ren‐Rong
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Atroposelective synthesis of N‐N atropisomers is an emerging area but remains underexplored; in particular, the synthesis of N‐N benzimidazole atropisomers is still unprecedented. Herein, the first enantioselective synthesis of N‐N benzimidazole atropisomers via the palladium‐catalyzed de novo construction of benzimidazole skeleton is presented. With readily available palladium catalyst and biphosphine ligand, a broad range of nonbiaryl benzimidazole and indole‐benzimidazole atropisomers were conveniently accessed in high yields and with excellent enantioselectivities. Significantly, these N‐N benzimidazole atropisomers showed great antitumor activity and selectivity to breast cancer MCF‐7 cells. The simple catalytic system, broad substrate scope, high enantioselectivity, and good bioactivity make this approach highly attractive.
Palladium‐Catalyzed [4+2] and [6+2] Dipolar Cycloadditions for the Construction of Benzo[d]isothiazole 1,1‐Dioxide Fused 1,3‐Oxazinanes and 1,3‐Oxazocanes†
Authors: Chen Lei , Xie Hongling , Xue Yu , Han Zhengyu , Sun Jianwei , Huang Hai
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

The Pd‐catalyzed dipolar cycloaddition represents a significant synthetic strategy for the construction of useful heterocyclic compounds. This study developed the dipolar [4+2] and [6+2] cycloaddition reactions of benzo[d]isothiazole 1,1‐dioxides (BDs) leading to the synthesis of BD‐fused 1,3‐oxazinane and 1,3‐oxazocane derivatives, respectively. In particular, the synthesis of BD‐fused 1,3‐oxazinanes demonstrated regio‐ and enantioselective characteristics, resulting in products with good yields, enantioselectivity and regioselectivity (if applicable). Furthermore, the [6+2] cycloaddition reaction developed in this work represented the first strategy for the synthesis of medium‐sized ring compounds based on BDs.
Grading medullary thyroid carcinoma on fine‐needle aspiration cytology specimens with the International Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma Grading System: A cytologic–histologic correlation
Authors: Viswanathan Kartik , Behrman D. Blake , Lubin Daniel J.
Published: December 2023

Background

Medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) is a rare cancer of parafollicular C‐cell origin. The International MTC Grading System (IMTCGS) incorporates mitotic activity, the presence of necrosis, and the Ki67 proliferation rate (PR) to classify MTCs as low or high grade. The ability to predict IMTCGS grade in cytology was assessed.

Methods

MTCs with cytology and subsequent surgical follow‐up were reviewed. Cytology slides were reviewed for mitotic figures, apoptoses, and necrosis, and a Ki67 PR was calculated when possible. Findings were correlated with final IMTCGS grade.

Results

Twenty‐five MTC fine‐needle aspirations (FNAs) were identified, with nine identified as high grade (36%). By using a PR cutoff of 5%, Ki67 on FNA material (Ki67FNA) showed 92% concordance (n = 22 of 24) with surgical Ki67 and a correlation coefficient (R2) of 0.72. Sensitivity and specificity of Ki67FNA for predicting high‐grade MTC were 38% and 100%, respectively. Multiple mitotic figures were present in a single slide of 43% (n = 3 of 7) of evaluable high‐grade MTCs, whereas only one of 16 low‐grade MTCs showed a single mitotic figure. Definitive apoptoses were present in five of seven high‐grade MTC FNAs but were absent in 16 low‐grade MTCs. The sensitivity and specificity of apoptoses/necrosis on cytology for high‐grade MTCs were 71% and 88%, respectively.

Conclusions

Ki67FNA ≥5% shows low sensitivity but high specificity for predicting high‐grade MTC. The presence of multiple mitotic figures in a single slide or definitive apoptotic bodies are both highly suggestive of high‐grade MTC, and should warrant a close examination for necrosis and a careful Ki67 PR count.
Realizing High Performance Tunable Sensing Mode and Selectivity of Metal Ions Based on Carbon Dot
Authors: Devi Lamabam Rebika , Devi Henam Sylvia , Singh Henam Premananda , Singh Thiyam David
Published: December 2023

We have adopted a straightforward, eco‐friendly and economically profitable pyrolysis route of tailoring quantum dot size carbon particles (CD) from the leaves of Arundo donax. The synthesized uniformly dispersed CD1 and CD2 have an average diameter of 4.5 nm and 3.5 nm respectively as determined via HRTEM. FT‐IR analysis corroborated nitric acid treatment leads to rich surface functionalization of CD2. Experimentally estimated average fluorescence (FL) lifetime of the as‐prepared CD1 and CD2 are 2.31 ns and 3.87 ns respectively. Juxtapose to other metal ions, Cd+2 ions can efficiently quench FL of CD1, while Cr+6 ions, on contrary, prominently enhanced FL of CD2. Benefitting from their FL response, a turn off sensor was built using CD1 to detect Cd+2 ions and a turn on‐off sensor by CD2 to sense Cr+6 with impressive limit of detections of 2.58 nM and 1.73 nM respectively. They exhibit superior performance compare to other documented nanoscopic materials. The FL “turn off” interaction mechanism of CD1 was attributed mainly to static quenching. While that of “turn on‐off” mechanism for CD2 was ascribed to chelation enhanced fluorescence phenomenon and a rare partial combination of inner filter effect plus dominate dynamic type of quenching.
Curriculum in special school contexts: A collaged framework for personalised, individual student learning
Authors: Ronksley‐Pavia Michelle
Published: December 2023

Interpreting and enacting curriculum in any school is a complex undertaking, even more so in special school contexts where teachers must develop and enact appropriate curriculum modifications and accommodations for small groups of students and individual students. In special education contexts, educational modifications are changes teachers make based on a standardised curriculum, in order to be able to support the individual learning of students with intellectual and other profound disabilities, in terms of personalising learning for each student. These modifications are derived from teachers' curriculum (re)interpretations. Conversely, educational accommodations are the adjustments that teachers make in how they deliver the interpreted curriculum through individual learning episodes without changing the existent learning foci. This article presents a theorisation of how some special school educators interpret and reinterpret standardised curriculum to support the individual learning needs of students with moderate to profound disabilities through operationalising a theoretical framework of personalised learning. Operationalising personalised learning in special school contexts is theorised to be a collaged hermeneutical circle, where special education teachers work to (re)interpret curriculum, alongside the individual learning needs evidenced through teacher assessments and observations, and from student individual education plans. Within special school contexts, teachers approach the Australian Curriculum text as collaborative teams and engage in dialogue and planning about the curriculum to be taught and assessed. Thus, they aim to ensure that their students engage with the appropriate curriculum and have opportunities for learning on the same basis as students without their specific needs (i.e. students without disability). Unlike teachers in mainstream schooling contexts, teachers in special schools must (re)interpret curriculum that has not been explicitly developed for the unique learning needs of students with profound disability.
BEE‐quest of the nest: A novel method for eDNA‐based, nonlethal detection of cavity‐nesting hymenopterans and other arthropods
Authors: Sickel Wiebke , Kulow Josephine , Krüger Lasse , Dieker Petra
Published: December 2023

Wild bee populations are facing strong declines due to a variety of stressors, such as habitat loss and pesticide use. Research focused on wild bees has increased over the last three decades, yet species identifications are still relying on lethal sampling approaches, followed by time‐ and labor‐intensive pinning and morphological analysis by experts. The use of DNA metabarcoding for species detection offers a time‐ and cost‐effective complement to traditional approaches and can potentially facilitate nonlethal sampling. We developed a DNA metabarcoding workflow to identify cavity‐nesting Hymenoptera using environmental DNA collected from vacated nest tubes. We compared different nest sizes and sample types and assessed the effect of these parameters on Hymenoptera species detection rates. We also tested whether our method could detect multiple species in mixed‐species nests. The eDNA results were compared to data from morpho‐taxonomical species identifications. Despite limited DNA quantity, we detected Hymenoptera at the species level in 57.4% of our samples. Hymenoptera detection was also possible from single brood cells. In mixed‐species nests, we correctly detected the presence of multiple species. In nests of solitary wasps, we additionally detected other arthropods, which are probably the remains of larval provisions. Morphological and molecular data agreed in large parts. This eDNA approach offers the opportunity for the implementation of large‐scale and nonlethal monitoring of cavity‐nesting Hymenoptera that additionally provides valuable information on trophic interactions.
Acidity constants and protonation sites of cyclic dinucleotides determined by capillary electrophoresis, quantum chemical calculations, and NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Štěpánová Sille , Andris Erik , Gutten Ondrej , Buděšínský Miloš , Dejmek Milan , Břehová Petra , Rulíšek Lubomír , Kašička Václav
Published: December 2023

Cyclic dinucleotides (CDNs) are important second messengers in bacteria and eukaryotes. Detailed characterization of their physicochemical properties is a prerequisite for understanding their biological functions. Herein, we examine acid–base and electromigration properties of selected CDNs employing capillary electrophoresis (CE), density functional theory (DFT), and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy to provide benchmark pKa values, as well as to unambiguously determine the protonation sites. Acidity constants (pKa) of the NH+ moieties of adenine and guanine bases and actual and limiting ionic mobilities of CDNs were determined by nonlinear regression analysis of the pH dependence of their effective electrophoretic mobilities measured by CE in aqueous background electrolytes in a wide pH range (0.98–11.48), at constant temperature (25°C), and constant ionic strength (25 mM). The thermodynamic pKa values were found to be in the range 3.31–4.56 for adenine and 2.28–3.61 for guanine bases, whereas the pKa of enol group of guanine base was in the range 10.21–10.40. Except for systematic shifts of ∼2 pKa, the pKa values calculated by the DFT‐D3//COSMO‐RS composite protocol that included large‐scale conformational sampling and “cross‐morphing” were in a relatively good agreement with the pKas determined by CE and predict N1 atom of adenine and N7 atom of guanine as the protonation sites. The protonation of the N1 atom of adenine and N7 atom of guanine in acidic background electrolytes (BGEs) and the dissociation of the enol group of guanine in alkaline BGEs was confirmed also by NMR spectroscopy.
Essential Assessment of Last‐Decade Progress in Road Energy Harvesting Systems
Authors: Ligęza Paweł
Published: December 2023

An important contemporary challenge regarding sustainable development is the analysis of the possibilities of obtaining and recovering energy, also from unconventional areas. One such issue harvests energy from roads. This idea seems to be so attractive that numerous scientific teams around the world conduct research in this area. The author's systematic analysis of review articles from the last decade raises the question, whether harvesting energy from roads is really as attractive and promising as many researchers predict in their publications. The author hypothesizes that in last decade basically no significant progress has been made in the development and improvement of energy harvesting from roads methods and systems. In many cases, the solutions presented are more technical than scientific novelties. Known solutions are modeled and tested again and again, the systems are complex and expensive, and the energy and economic efficiency is relatively low. In this article, the author focuses on critically revealing the flaws, shortcomings, weaknesses, and erroneous assumptions of large part studies conducted in this field. Based on the criticism, it is aimed to indicate prospective directions of development and encourage researchers to look for innovative, effective solutions in the field of energy harvesting from roads.
Anti‐skin aging effect of sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins in D‐galactose‐induced aging mice
Authors: Liu Xinying , Yuen Michael , Yuen Tina , Yuen Hywel , Wang Min , Peng Qiang
Published: December 2023

Oxidative stress in skin cells caused by changes in the external environment is one of the principal causes of skin aging. Sea buckthorn proanthocyanidins (SBPs) have good free radical scavenging ability. We established a senescence model by injecting 500 mg/kg D‐galactose into the dorsal necks of mice, and then different doses of SBP (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg) were gavaged to explore the effects of SBP on the skin tissues of senescent mice and elucidate the related mechanism of action. The results reveal that SBP can alleviate the skin aging phenomenon caused by D‐galactose‐induced aging. It can also enhance the total antioxidant capacity in the body, thereby strengthening the body's antioxidant defense capability. In addition, SBP can effectively improve skin aging by regulating the TGF‐β1/Smads pathway and MMPs/TIMP system, increasing the relative content of Col I and tropoelastin, further maintaining the stability of collagen fiber and elastic fiber structure. These results will provide the development and production of the antioxidant function of cosmetics and health products, providing a new train of thought.
Social, economic, and health indexes affecting epidemiology of preterm birth: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Mostafaei Shayan , Shamshirsaz Alireza A. , Norooznezhad Amir H.
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Preterm birth (PTB) accompanies with morbidities and mortality among newborns. This study aimed to show that different factors such as economic (adjusted net national income and gross domestic product [GDP] per capita), human developmental (human developmental index), and health (overall health performance, pregnancy prenatal care rate, and modeled estimated maternal mortality rate) indexes might influence the prevalence of PTB.

Methods

To this, the top 10 countries with the highest and lowest prevalence of PTB were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease report for PTB. Then, we have gathered some common indexes for economic (adjusted net national income and GDP per capita), health‐related (overall health performance, pregnancy prenatal care rate, and modeled estimated maternal mortality rate), and combined developmental (human developmental index) factors from different resources including World Bank and United Nations for those countries. The truncated Bayesian linear regression model, decision tree, and k‐means clustering algorithms were used for data analysis.

Results

The results showed Pregnancy Prenatal Care Rate index has a significant effect on the PTB rate in the top 10 countries with the highest prevalence of PTB. Also, for the top 10 less prevalent countries for PTB, it was shown that modeled estimated maternal mortality rate, human developmental index rank, and pregnancy prenatal care rate have significant effects on PTB rate. In addition, the clustering based on the similarities in socioeconomic, human developmental, and health indexes were approximately like with the clustering of the countries based on the PTB rates (Rand index = 0.823).

Conclusion

The results showed studies on the epidemiology of PTB (either worldwide or nation‐based) should consider these confounder factors to obtain accurate results.
The effect of the holy Quran recitation and listening on anxiety, stress, and depression: A scoping review on outcomes
Authors: Moulaei Khadijeh , Haghdoost Ali‐Akbar , Bahaadinbeigy Kambiz , Dinari Fatemeh
Published: December 2023

Background and Aim

Anxiety, stress, and depressive disorders as common mental health problems have adverse effects in different populations. Holy Quran recitation and listening can help reduce these disorders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the Holy Quran on anxiety, stress, and depression.

Materials and Methods

To retrieve eligible studies, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases. The articles were screened and chosen by three researchers. The selection of studies and the data extraction from the studies were done by three researchers using the data collection form based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved by consulting the third and fourth researchers. To report scoping review, we used the PRISMA cheklist.

Results

A total of 174 articles were retrieved from three databases and after removing irrelevant and repetitive articles, 15 articles were included in the current review. All studies were performed in Asia countries. Most studies have examined the effect of Holy Quran recitation and listening on anxiety (45%), stress (30%), and then depression (25%), respectively. The Beck Depression Inventory was the most widely used tool to evaluate the effect of Holy Quran recitation and listening on reducing anxiety, depression and stress. “Reducing the level of anxiety, stress, and depression” and “Simple, affordable, practical and cost‐effective treatment to reduce depression and anxiety” were the most important outcomes of holy Quran recitation.

Conclusions

Based on the results of this study, Quran recitation and listening can be applied as a useful nonpharmacological treatment to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression.
Association between history of hookah use and symptoms of postpartum depression: A population‐based study
Authors: Haile Zelalem T. , Karim Sabrina , Murton Kasey , Patibandla Sravya , Haider Mohammad Rifat
Published: December 2023

Objective

Although several biologic, psychosocial, and behavioral factors have been linked to postpartum depressive symptoms, studies examining the association between non‐cigarette tobacco products and symptoms of postpartum depression are currently lacking. This study examined the association between hookah use and postpartum depressive symptoms.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System 2016–2020. Self‐reported data on hookah use in the last 2 years and maternal mental health were captured using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were performed.

Results

The final study sample consisted of 106 894 participants. Approximately 8.2% of the participants reported postpartum depressive symptoms and 4.1% reported hookah use in the past 2 years. Compared with those without postpartum depressive symptoms, participants with postpartum depressive symptoms were more likely to be hookah users (5.5% vs 4.0%, P < 0.001). After adjustment for confounders, the odds of having postpartum depressive symptoms were significantly higher among participants who used a hookah in the past 2 years compared with non‐users; adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) 1.20 (1.03–1.40); P = 0.022.

Conclusion

In a large, population‐based sample of US women, hookah use in the past 2 years significantly increased the odds of having postpartum depressive symptoms, independent of potential confounders. This finding underscores the need for healthcare providers to communicate effectively about the health risks of hookah use.