bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photocatalytic Membranes Toward Practical Environmental Remediation: Fundamental, Fabrication, and Application
Authors: Wu Tao , Yang Yawei , Zhao Qi , Lin Ziyan , Huang Ruilong , Li Tonghui , Liu Yihong , Luo Lingdi , Gao Bowen , Que Wenxiu
Published: December 2023

With the serious pollution of water resources in the process of social development, green and environmentally friendly photocatalytic technology has gradually attracted widespread attention. Though photocatalytic theory and technology are relatively mature, the current research is mainly focused on powders and less on the photocatalytic membranes, and few real practical cases of photocatalysis are studied. To summarize and update these advanced studies, this paper introduces the latest progress in photocatalytic membranes including discussing the differences of photocatalytic mechanism between free and fixed photocatalytic systems and the design philosophy of photocatalytic membranes. At the same time, some common fabrication methods, including in situ growth, coating, spinning, casting, and foaming methods are analyzed. Besides, the photocatalytic performances of different photocatalytic membranes in the actual environment and their use conditions are explored. Finally, a critical view of future trends is included. The explanation of the photocatalytic mechanism, large‐scale production, and the practicality of photocatalytic products are all problems that need to be solved in the future.
Transgelin Promotes Glioblastoma Stem Cell Hypoxic Responses and Maintenance Through p53 Acetylation
Authors: Li Huan , Song Chao , Zhang Yang , Liu Guohao , Mi Hailong , Li Yachao , Chen Zhiye , Ma Xiaoyu , Zhang Po , Cheng Lidong , Peng Peng , Zhu Hongtao , Chen Zirong , Dong Minhai , Chen Sui , Meng Hao , Xiao QunGen , Li Honglian , Wu Qiulian , Wang Baofeng , Zhang Suojun , Shu Kai , Wan Feng , Guo Dongsheng , Zhou Wenchao , Zhou Lin , Mao Feng , Rich Jeremy N. , Yu Xingjiang
Published: December 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a lethal cancer characterized by hypervascularity and necrosis associated with hypoxia. Here, it is found that hypoxia preferentially induces the actin‐binding protein, Transgelin (TAGLN), in GBM stem cells (GSCs). Mechanistically, TAGLN regulates HIF1α transcription and stabilizes HDAC2 to deacetylate p53 and maintain GSC self‐renewal. To translate these findings into preclinical therapeutic paradigm, it is found that sodium valproate (VPA) is a specific inhibitor of TAGLN/HDAC2 function, with augmented efficacy when combined with natural borneol (NB) in vivo. Thus, TAGLN promotes cancer stem cell survival in hypoxia and informs a novel therapeutic paradigm.
Advances in Multi‐Terminal Transistors as Reconfigurable Interconnections for Neuromorphic Sensing and Processing
Authors: Ng Si En , Vishwanath Sujaya Kumar , Yang Jingting , Periyal Srilakshmi Subramanian , Nirmal Amoolya , Jamaludin Nur Fadilah , John Rohit Abraham , Mathews Nripan
Published: December 2023

Inspired by the brain, neuromorphic computing seeks to improve data‐centric applications in terms of power consumption and device footprint. The processing efficiency can be attributed to reconfigurable connections coupled with complex dynamics and efficient data sensing and signal processing. With field‐effect tunability, the three‐terminal thin‐film transistor is initially explored as a switch. Recently, transistors with added gates and modes have been fashioned as multi‐terminal devices capable of interconnecting complex networks and transducing multiple inputs. Here, the advances in both the semiconducting channel material and the configurational design of multi‐terminal devices are reviewed. The use of strong coupling and dynamical material properties in novel ion‐based capacitors, mixed‐ionic‐electronic semiconductors, low‐dimensional confined systems, stimuli‐responsive materials and redox‐active semiconductors has enabled new neuromorphic functionalities. These include improving reconfigurability using the regulatory ability of homeostasis, dendritic integration of sensory signals and the synaptic competition of resources. The transistor devices are also highly relevant in circuits that improve the efficiency of sensory transduction and signal processing; stimuli‐responsive semiconductors that adapt to the sensory inputs can be employed in the transistors and highly efficient sensorimotor connections between sensors and actuators can be emulated. These highly efficient, low‐complexity analog devices are crucial design elements for next‐generation neuromorphic systems.
In situ Construction of Multifunctional Surface Coatings on Zinc Metal for Advanced Aqueous Zinc–Iodine Batteries
Authors: Wang Gulian , Yao Qian , Dong Jingjing , Ge Wenjing , Wang Nana , Bai Zhongchao , Yang Jian , Dou Shixue
Published: December 2023

Aqueous zinc–iodine batteries (Zn–I2) demonstrate great promise in large scale energy storage systems. However, their practical application faces significant challenges including dendrite formation, corrosion caused by polyiodine ions, and other side reactions at the zinc anode side. Herein, a facile and efficient pretreatment method for zinc anodes through the substitution reaction of Zn and SnF2 to create a dense and durable multifunctional surface layer (MSL). The MSL comprise tin (Sn) and ZnF2 phases on the zinc metal, in which Sn possesses good zinc affinity and a high hydrogen evolution overpotential, while ZnF2 provides pathways for radial ion transport. Importantly, both have a low binding energy with polyiodine ions, preventing the failure of the interface layer. Therefore, this interface layer can effectively mitigate zinc metal electrode dendrite formation, corrosion from polyiodine ions, and other side reactions induced by water, simultaneously. As a result, the Zn–I2 batteries performance is greatly improved and exhibited a stable cycling to 20 000 times with 80% capacity retention at a current density of 2 A g−1. Even the I2 loading is increased to 8 mg cm−2, it can still cycle stably for 5000 cycles with a capacity retention of 94%.
Identification and assessment of supply chain risks: The case of food hubs
Authors: Artoonian Tatevik Avetisyan , Ross R. Brent , Shupp Robert S.
Published: December 2023

The supply chain risk management literature highlights the importance of ex‐ante identification and assessment of risks to ensure continuity of firms, in particular, and the high performance of supply chains in which they operate, in general. Supply chain disruptions are harmful and costly for firms. The risk of such disruptions can be particularly consequential for firms in emerging industries that lack resources and for which dominant organizational and supply chain designs do not yet exist. Within local and regional food supply chains, food hubs are nascent enterprises coordinating these supply chains. Building off the existing supply chain risk management literature, this study identifies and assesses the perceived supply chain risks faced by U.S. food hubs. The study employs an exploratory sequential mixed methods research design and the Failure Mode and Effect Analysis methodology for this purpose. The results show risks related to imbalances in food supply and demand, logistical delays, human resources, and infrastructure capacity limitations were perceived to be the highest priority supply chain risks for the U.S. food hubs before the COVID‐19 pandemic. The study further provides insights on association between food hub characteristics and risk, as well as association between risk preferences and risk perceptions of food hub managers [EconLit Citations: L29 Other (Firm Supply Chain Risk Management)].
Examining environmental proactivity in the Spanish wine industry: The moderating role of size
Authors: Carchano Marcos , Carrasco Inmaculada , González Angela
Published: December 2023

The value of proactive environmental strategies to achieve and maintain competitive advantages in the business sphere has been widely acknowledged in recent years. However, mixed results can still be found regarding the determinants and consequences of the implementation of such practices. This study investigates the determinants of environmental proactivity in Spanish wineries, focusing on the role of company size in linking internal motivations and stakeholder pressure with proactive environmental strategy using the natural resource‐based view. So far, no research of this type has been carried out for the Spanish wine sector. A structural equation model is proposed based on partial least squares applied to a sample of 251 wine companies to evaluate both the direct relationships and the moderating effect. The study identifies internal motivations, community pressure, and regulatory pressure as determinants of proactive environmental strategy. Company characteristics play an essential role in decision‐making when dealing with environmental issues proactively. Small companies tend to be more influenced by internal motivations, while larger companies are driven to undertake environmental actions based on external pressures. Additionally, we found that managers who take a proactive approach to environmental protection can achieve financial rewards. These findings provide important implications for both policymakers and managers by offering new theoretical and empirical insight into how proactive environmental strategy affects financial performance in the case of Spain's wine companies. [EconLit Citations: O31, Q55, C30].
Recent advances of aggregation‐induced emission in body surface organs
Authors: Li Hang , Zhang Tingting , Liao Yingying , Liu Chutong , He Yisheng , Wang Yongfei , Li Conglei , Jiang Cheng , Li Chenzhong , Luo Guanghong , Xiang Zhongyuan , Duo Yanhong
Published: December 2023

The surface organs mainly comprise the superficial layers of various parts of the mammalian body, including the skin, eyes, and ears, which provide solid protection against various threats to the entire body. Damage to surface organs could lead to many serious diseases or even death. Currently, despite significant advancements in this field, there remain numerous enigmas that necessitate expeditious resolution, particularly pertaining to diagnostic and therapeutic objectives. The advancements in nanomedicine have provided a significant impetus for the development of novel approaches in the diagnosis, bioimaging, and therapy of superficial organs. The aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) phenomenon, initially observed by Prof. Ben Zhong Tang, stands out due to its contrasting behavior to the aggregation‐caused quenching effect. This discovery has significantly revolutionized the field of nanomedicine for surface organs owing to its remarkable advantages. In this review of literature, we aim to provide a comprehensive summary of recent advances of AIE lumenogen (AIEgen)‐based nanoplatforms in the fields of detection, diagnosis, imaging, and therapeutics of surface organ‐related diseases and discuss their prospects in the domain. It is hoped that this review will help attract researchers’ attention toward the utilization of this field for the exploration of a wider range of biomedical and clinical applications.
Genetic characterization of the ALFA study: Uncovering genetic profiles in the Alzheimer's continuum
Authors: Vilor‐Tejedor Natalia , Genius Patricia , Rodríguez‐Fernández Blanca , Minguillón Carolina , Sadeghi Iman , González‐Escalante Armand , Crous‐Bou Marta , Suárez‐Calvet Marc , Grau‐Rivera Oriol , Brugulat‐Serrat Anna , Sánchez‐Benavides Gonzalo , Esteller Manel , Fauria Karine , Molinuevo José Luis , Navarro Arcadi , Gispert Juan Domingo ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative,   for the ALFA study
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTION

In 2013, the ALzheimer's and FAmilies (ALFA) project was established to investigate pathophysiological changes in preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD), and to foster research on early detection and preventive interventions.

METHODS

We conducted a comprehensive genetic characterization of ALFA participants with respect to neurodegenerative/cerebrovascular diseases, AD biomarkers, brain endophenotypes, risk factors and aging biomarkers. We placed particular emphasis on amyloid/tau status and assessed gender differences. Multiple polygenic risk scores were computed to capture different aspects of genetic predisposition. We additionally compared AD risk in ALFA to that across the full disease spectrum from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI).

RESULTS

Results show that the ALFA project has been successful at establishing a cohort of cognitively unimpaired individuals at high genetic predisposition of AD.

DISCUSSION

It is, therefore, well‐suited to study early pathophysiological changes in the preclinical AD continuum.

Highlights

Prevalence of ε4 carriers in ALzheimer and FAmilies (ALFA) is higher than in the general European population

The ALFA study is highly enriched in Alzheimer's disease (AD) genetic risk factors beyond APOE

AD genetic profiles in ALFA are similar to clinical groups along the continuum

ALFA has succeeded in establishing a cohort of cognitively unimpaired individuals at high genetic AD risk

ALFA is well suited to study pathogenic events/early pathophysiological changes in AD
Achieving Strong Magnon Blockade through Magnon Squeezing in a Cavity Magnetomechanical System
Authors: Amazioug M. , Dutykh D. , Teklu B. , Asjad M.
Published: December 2023

A scheme that harnesses magnon squeezing under weak pump driving within a cavity magnomechanical system to achieve a robust magnon (photon) blockade is proposed. Through meticulous analytical calculations of optimal parametric gain and detuning values, the objective is to enhance the second‐order correlation function. The findings demonstrate a substantial magnon blockade effect under ideal conditions, accompanied by a simultaneous photon blockade effect. Impressively, both numerical and analytical results are found to be in complete accord, providing robust validation for the consistency of the findings. It is anticipated that the proposed scheme will serve as a pioneering approach toward the practical realization of magnon (photon) blockade in experimental cavity magnomechanical systems.
Surface Activation by Single Ru Atoms for Enhanced High‐Temperature CO2 Electrolysis
Authors: Song Yuefeng , Min Junyong , Guo Yige , Li Rongtan , Zou Geng , Li Mingrun , Zang Yipeng , Feng Weicheng , Yao Xiaoqian , Liu Tianfu , Zhang Xiaomin , Yu Jingcheng , Liu Qingxue , Zhang Peng , Yu Runsheng , Cao Xingzhong , Zhu Junfa , Dong Kun , Wang Guoxiong , Bao Xinhe
Published: December 2023

Cathodic CO2 adsorption and activation is essential for high‐temperature CO2 electrolysis in solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOECs). However, the component of oxygen ionic conductor in the cathode displays limited electrocatalytic activity. Herein, stable single Ruthenium (Ru) atoms are anchored on the surface of oxygen ionic conductor (Ce0.8Sm0.2O2‐δ, SDC) via the strong covalent metal‐support interaction, which evidently modifies the electronic structure of SDC surface for favorable oxygen vacancy formation and enhanced CO2 adsorption and activation, finally evoking the electrocatalytic activity of SDC for high‐temperature CO2 electrolysis. Experimentally, SOEC with the Ru1/SDC‐La0.6Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3‐δ cathode exhibits a current density as high as 2.39 A cm−2 at 1.6 V and 800 °C. This work expands the application of single atom catalyst to the high‐temperature electrocatalytic reaction in SOEC and provides an efficient strategy to tailor the electronic structure and electrocatalytic activity of SOEC cathode at the atomic scale.
A Microporous Poly(Arylene Ether) Platform for Membrane‐Based Gas Separation**
Authors: Guo Sheng , Yeo Jing Ying , Benedetti Francesco M. , Syar Duha , Swager Timothy M. , Smith Zachary P.
Published: December 2023

Membrane‐based gas separations are crucial for an energy‐efficient future. However, it is difficult to develop membrane materials that are high‐performing, scalable, and processable. Microporous organic polymers (MOPs) combine benefits for gas sieving and solution processability. Herein, we report membrane performance for a new family of microporous poly(arylene ether)s (PAEs) synthesized via Pd‐catalyzed C−O coupling reactions. The scaffold of these microporous polymers consists of rigid three‐dimensional triptycene and stereocontorted spirobifluorene, endowing these polymers with micropore dimensions attractive for gas separations. This robust PAE synthesis method allows for the facile incorporation of functionalities and branched linkers for control of permeation and mechanical properties. A solution‐processable branched polymer was formed into a submicron film and characterized for permeance and selectivity, revealing lab data that rivals property sets of commercially available membranes already optimized for much thinner configurations. Moreover, the branching motif endows these materials with outstanding plasticization resistance, and their microporous structure and stability enables benefits from competitive sorption, increasing CO2/CH4 and (H2S+CO2)/CH4 selectivity in mixture tests as predicted by the dual‐mode sorption model. The structural tunability, stability, and ease‐of‐processing suggest that this new platform of microporous polymers provides generalizable design strategies to form MOPs at scale for demanding gas separations in industry.
Synergy of Oxygen Vacancies and Base Sites for Transfer Hydrogenation of Nitroarenes on Ceria Nanorods
Authors: Yuan Ziliang , Huang Liang , Liu Yuanshuai , Sun Yong , Wang Guanghui , Li Xun , Lercher Johannes A. , Zhang Zehui
Published: December 2023

CeO2 nanorod based catalysts for the base‐free synthesis of azoxy‐aromatics via transfer hydrogenation of nitroarenes with ethanol as hydrogen donor have been synthesized and investigated. The oxygen vacancies (Ov) and base sites are critical for their excellent catalytic properties. The Ov, i.e., undercoordinated Ce cations, serve as the sites to activate ethanol and nitroarenes by lowering the energy barrier to transfer hydrogen from α−Csp3−H in ethanol to the nitro group coupling it to the redox reactions between Ce3+ and Ce4+. At the same time, the base sites catalyze the condensation step to selectively produce azoxy‐aromatics. The catalytic route opens a much improved way to use non‐noble metal oxides without additives for the selective functional group reduction and coupling reactions.
Synthesis of α,ω‐End Functionalized Polydienes: Allylic‐Bearing Heteroleptic Aluminums for Selective Alkylation and Transalkylation in Coordinative Chain Transfer Polymerization
Authors: Liu Pibo , Yang Xiao , Li He , Zhang Songbo , Hu Yanming , Zhou Guangyuan , Hadjichristidis Nikos
Published: December 2023

There are still challenges in the preparation of difunctional stereoregular polydienes, especially for the construction of initiating chain‐end functionalization. Coordinative chain transfer polymerization (CCTP) provides a way to achieve the goal but usually requires sophisticated functionalized catalysts as well as expensive chain transfer agents (CTAs). In this work, heteroleptic aluminum with oligo(dienyl) substituents (oligo‐Al agents) were readily prepared by living anionic polymerization (LAP) technique. The oligo‐Al agents used in Nd‐mediated CCTPs of dienes exhibit highly selective alkylation and transalkylation features. Kinetics and transfer efficiency studies using 1H NMR, 13C NMR, 1H‐13C HSQC, and Dosy NMR analyses revealed that the resulting polydienes possess substituents at the initiating chain‐end that have transferred from the oligo‐Al agents. The functionalization efficiency of the initiating chain‐end is up to 99 %, and the molar mass regulation efficiency of heteroleptic aluminum is higher than that of the traditional CTA AliBu2H (0.608 vs. 0.410). Based on the experimental results and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we propose a mechanism in which allylic‐Al acts as an efficient alkylating moiety in catalyst preformation and also as an effective transfer agent in polymerization. Taking advantage of these features, di‐functionalized polyisoprene, polybutadiene, and poly(isoprene‐co‐butadiene) can be facilely synthesized.
Adjusting the Architecture of Heptagonal Metallo‐Macrocycles by Embedding Metal Nodes into the Backbone
Authors: Zhao He , Wijerathna A. M. Shashika D. , Dong Qiangqiang , Bai Qixia , Jiang Zhiyuan , Yuan Jie , Wang Jun , Chen Mingzhao , Zirnheld Markus , Li Rockwell , Liu Die , Wang Pingshan , Zhang Yuan , Li Yiming
Published: December 2023

Coordination‐driven self‐assembly has been extensively employed for the bottom‐up construction of discrete metallo‐macrocycles. However, the prevalent use of benzene rings as the backbone limits the formation of large metallo‐macrocycles with more than six edges. Herein, by embedding metal nodes into the ligand backbone, we successfully regulated the ligand arm angle and assembled two giant heptagonal metallo‐macrocycles with precise control. The angle between two arms at position 4 of the central terpyridine (tpy) extended after complexation with metal ions, leading to ring expansion of the metallo‐macrocycle. The assembled structures were straightforwardly identified through multi‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy (1H, COSY, NOESY), multidimensional mass spectrometry analysis (ESI‐MS and TWIM‐MS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), as well as scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). In addition, the catalytic performances of metallo‐macrocycles in the oxidation of thioanisole were studied, with both supramolecules exhibiting good conversion rates. Furthermore, fiber‐like nanostructures were observed from single‐molecule heptagons by hierarchical self‐assembly.
Living Materials Based Dynamic Information Encryption via Light‐Inducible Bacterial Biosynthesis of Quantum Dots
Authors: Niu Luqi , Yu Lin , Jin Chenyang , Jin Kai , Liu Zhen , Zhu Tao , Zhu Xiaohui , Zhang Yong , Wu Yihan
Published: December 2023

Microbial biosynthesis, as an alternative method for producing quantum dots (QDs), has gained attention because it can be conducted under mild and environmentally friendly conditions, distinguishing it from conventional chemical and physical synthesis approaches. However, there is currently no method to selectively control this biosynthesis process in a subset of microbes within a population using external stimuli. In this study, we have attained precise and selective control over the microbial biosynthesis of QDs through the utilization of an optogenetically engineered Escherichia coli (E. coli). The recombinant E. coli is designed to express smCSE enzyme, under the regulation of eLightOn system, which can be activated by blue light. The smCSE enzymes use L‐cysteine and Cd2+ as substrates to form CdS QDs. This system enables light‐inducible bacterial biosynthesis of QDs in precise patterns within a hydrogel for information encryption. As the biosynthesis progresses, the optical characteristics of the QDs change, allowing living materials containing the recombinant E. coli to display time‐dependent patterns that self‐destruct after reading. Compared to static encryption using fluorescent QD inks, dynamic information encryption based on living materials offers enhanced security.
Enrichment of EPA and DHA by enzymatic ethanolysis: Effects of lipases from Thermomyces lanuginosus, Rhizomucor miehei, Rhizopus oryzae and Candida antarctica
Authors: Qiao Miao , Hua Xin , Yuan Yongjun , Cao Xi
Published: December 2023

This work attempts to achieve the enrichment of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in acylglycerols as well as biodiesel production by investigating the performance of various lipases in ethanolysis. The ethanolysis activities of five immobilized lipases in decreasing order were as follows: Lipozyme TL IM, Novozym 40086/Lipozyme RM IM, Novozym 435 and Rhizopus oryzae lipase immobilized on polypropylene (RO PP). EPA could be enriched to a certain content by Lipozyme TL IM, Novozym 40086, Lipozyme RM IM, and RO PP. The enrichment of DHA was achieved well by those four sn‐1,3 regioselective lipases, and DHA contents in acylglycerols were the highest when Lipozyme TL IM and Novozym 40086 were used, reaching 2.87‐fold and 2.81‐fold of the initial content. However, Novozym 435 could not enrich EPA and DHA effectively. Fatty acid ethyl esters produced in this work contained abundant palmitic acid and palmitoleic acid, which could be ideal biodiesel considering their chain length. The competitive factors of five lipases towards DHA were all significantly higher than those towards EPA. When Lipozyme TL IM and Novozym 40086 achieved the maximum DHA contents, their DHA recoveries in acylglycerols reached 91.87% and 89.00%, respectively. The DHA recoveries were all significantly higher than the corresponding EPA recoveries in the reactions catalyzed by five lipases. Moreover, Lipozyme TL IM could be a potential lipase for the separation of EPA and DHA. This study may promote the full use of fish oil and broaden the application of lipases.
Boosting the Performance of Zn Electrode in Aqueous Electrolytes via Trace Amount of Organic Molecules
Authors: Huang Haiji , Wang Yan , Xie Dongmei , Sun Jianyang , Zhao Jiachang , Rao Pinhua , Mook Choi Won , Mao Jianfeng
Published: December 2023

The poor performance of Zn electrode in aqueous electrolytes prevents the practical application of aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (AZIBs). Here, 2‐Pyrrolidinone (Pr) is introduced into conventional ZnSO4 electrolytes as additive and only 3 vol.% addition (Pr−to−H2O volume ratio) enables boosted performance. The Pr molecules are preferentially adsorbed on the surface of Zn electrodes to promote the uniform deposition of Zn ions and modulate the solvation structure of Zn2+ to inhibit the side reactions. As a result, the Zn electrode is boosted to run over 1200 h during charge/discharge cycling processes and delivers high average coulombic efficiency (CE) of 99.9 % under 1 mA cm−2, 1 mAh cm−2. Even under harsh testing conditions of 20 mA cm−2 and 20 mAh cm−2, Zn electrode still run over 100 h, which is much longer than that at pristine electrolyte (25 h). Moreover, the Zn||MnO2 full cells with the Pr additive exhibit a high capacity of 201 mAh g−1 and good capacity retention of 89 % after 550 cycles at 0.5 A g−1.
Quantitative analysis of the impact of membrane permeability on intestinal first‐pass metabolism of CYP3A substrates
Authors: Yasugi Yugo , Shirasaka Yoshiyuki , Tamai Ikumi
Published: December 2023

The aim of this study was firstly to investigate the effect of membrane permeability on the intestinal availability (Fg) of 10 cytochrome P450 3A4 substrates with differing permeability (Papp) and metabolic activity (CLint) using Madin‐Darby canine kidney II (MDCKII) cells expressing human CYP3A4 (MDCKII/CYP3A4 cells), and secondly to confirm the essential factors by simulations. A membrane permeation assay using MDCKII/CYP3A4 cells showed a significant correlation between human intestinal extraction ratio (ER) (Eg (=1 − Fg)) and in vitro cellular ER (r = 0.834). This relationship afforded better predictability of Eg values than the relationship between Eg and CLint,HIM values obtained from human intestinal microsomes (r = 0.598). An even stronger correlation was observed between 1 − Fa·Fg and ER (r = 0.874). Simulation with a cellular kinetic model indicated that ER is sensitive to changes of PSpassive and CLint values, but not to the intracellular unbound fraction (fu,cell) or P‐gp‐mediated efflux (PSP − gp). It may be concluded that, based on the concentration–time profile of drugs in epithelial cells, transmembrane permeability influences Fg (or ER) and drug exposure time to metabolizing enzymes for P450 substrate.
Citrus/urea nitrogen‐doped carbon quantum dots as nanosensors for vanillin determination in infant formula and food products via factorial experimental design fluorimetry and smartphone
Authors: El Hamd Mohamed A. , El‐Maghrabey Mahmoud , Almawash Saud , Radwan Aya Saad , El‐Shaheny Rania , Magdy Galal
Published: December 2023

Vanillin is a flavouring agent that is prohibited for use in infant food products with ages lower than 6 months. Excessive vanillin usage could lead to eating disorders, nausea, headache, and vomiting. Therefore, it is essential to control the contents of vanillin in food samples, especially in infant formula. Here, we developed a highly sensitive nanosensor for vanillin based on using green synthesized highly fluorescent (QY = 29.5%) N‐doped carbon quantum dots (N‐CQDs) as a turn‐off fluorescent nanoprobe. The N‐doped CQDs synthesis was adopted using citrus bulb squeeze extract and the commonly used fertilizer, urea, as substrates. After mixing with vanillin, the fluorescence of the N‐CQDs was largely quenched in a vanillin concentration‐dependent manner. The sensing conditions were optimized by quality‐by‐design using a two‐level full factorial design (22 FFD). The N‐doped CQDs could detect vanillin in the range 0.1–12.0 μg/ml with a limit of detection of 0.013 μg/ml. Next, a smartphone imaging‐based assay combined with a UV chamber was adopted and applied for vanillin determination. This simple detection technique showed sensitivity similar to that of the conventional fluorimetric method. Both conventional and smartphone‐based methods were successfully applied for the determination of vanillin in infant milk formula and biscuits and could detect real vanillin concentrations in the analyzed samples with high % recoveries (94.5% to 105.5%). At last, the biocompatibility of the newly synthesized N‐CQDs was tested, and it was found to be an excellent candidate for cancer cell imaging.
The relationship between clinicopathological variables, systemic inflammation, and CT‐derived body composition with survival in patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer receiving nivolumab as a second‐line treatment
Authors: Saeed Randa , McGovern Josh , Bench Hugo , Dolan Ross D. , McMillan Donald C. , Cascales Almudena
Published: December 2023

Background

Second‐line immunotherapy is currently recognized to help only a subset of patients with advanced forms of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The current study analyzes the connection between prior treatment host/tumor characteristics and survival in advanced NSCLC patients receiving nivolumab as a second‐line therapy.

Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was carried out on individuals with advanced NSCLC receiving second‐line Nivolumab with palliative intent between February 2016 and May 2019 across three health boards in NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, Lanarkshire, Ayrshire, and Arran in Scotland to examine the association between systemic inflammation, body composition, and survival were determined using computed tomography (CT).

Results

The current study investigates the connection between prior treatment host/tumor characteristics and survival in advanced NSCLC patients receiving nivolumab as a second‐line therapy. The majority were 65 years of age or older (51%), female (53%), had adenocarcinoma (53%), and had good performance status (ECOG 0/1) (86%). Most patients had high SFI (70%) or VFA (54%). The median overall survival after starting Nivolumab was 15 months. ECOG‐PS and hypoalbuminemia were significant predictors of 12‐month survival in patients with advanced NSCLC following Nivolumab treatment, according to Cox regression (p‐value = 0.047 and 0.014, respectively).

Conclusion

In patients with advanced NSCLC receiving Nivolumab as a second‐line therapy, ECOG‐PS and hypoalbuminemia were strongly associated with survival. Systemic inflammation and hypoalbuminemia measurements may enhance the ECOG‐PS stratification of expected outcomes.
Linagliptin in combination with insulin suppresses apoptotic unfolded protein response in ovaries exposed to type 1 diabetes
Authors: Okan Aslı , Demir Necdet , Doğanyiğit Züleyha
Published: December 2023

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the main causes of ovarian atresia, but its molecular effect on the ovaries is not fully understood. Accumulating evidence suggests that T1DM causes excessive endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and insufficient adaptive unfolded protein response that triggers proapoptotic signaling pathways in ovarian tissue. In addition, problems such as amenorrhea and infertility, which are frequently seen in women with T1DM, continue despite the intensification of insulin therapy and improvement of metabolic control. Therefore new, and adjunctive treatments for women with T1DM need to be explored. We aimed to examine how the use of linagliptin, which has blood sugar‐lowering effects and high antioxidant activity, together with insulin affects the expression levels of proteins and genes that play a role in ER stress in type 1 diabetic mouse ovaries. Eighty‐four Balb/C 6‐week‐old female mice were randomly divided into seven groups: control, vehicle, diabetes + insulin, diabetes + linagliptin, diabetes + linagliptin + insulin, diabetes + TUDCA, and diabetes + TUDCA + insulin. TUDCA (an inhibitor of ER stress) groups are positive control groups created to compare linagliptin groups in terms of ER stress. Linagliptin and TUDCA were given by oral gavage and 1U insulin was administered subcutaneously for 2 weeks. A significant decrease was observed in the MDA and NOX1 levels and the number of atretic follicles in the ovaries of the diabetes + linagliptin + insulin group compared to the diabetes + insulin group. The use of linagliptin and insulin increased the expression of pro‐survival XBP1s transmembrane protein and decreased the expression of proapoptotic ATF4, pJNK1/2, cleaved caspase 12, and cleaved caspase 3 in mouse ovaries. Our study provides new therapeutic evidence that linagliptin administered in addition to insulin induces ER stress mechanism‐dependent survival in ovaries with type 1 diabetes.
Review of intravascular lithotripsy for treating coronary, peripheral artery, and valve calcifications
Authors: Gruslova Aleksandra B. , Inanc Ibrahim H. , Cilingiroglu Mehmet , Katta Nitesh , Milner Thomas E. , Feldman Marc D.
Published: December 2023

Management of intracoronary calcium (ICC) continues to be a challenge for interventional cardiologists. There have been significant advances in calcium treatment devices. However, there still exists a knowledge gap regarding which devices to choose for the treatment of ICC. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the principles of intravascular lithotripsy (IVL) and clinical data. The technique of IVL will then be compared to alternative calcium treatment devices. Clinical data will be reviewed concerning the treatment of coronary, peripheral artery and valvular calcifications. Controversies to be discussed include how to incorporate IVL into your practice, what is the best approach for treating calcium subtypes, how to approach under‐expanded stents, what is the ideal technique for performing IVL, how safe is IVL, whether imaging adds value when performing IVL, and how IVL fits into a treatment program for peripheral arteries and calcified valves.
Intra‐stent aortic wall aneurysm formation after Be‐graft covered stent implant
Authors: Bianco Lisa , Rebonato Micol , Butera Gianfranco
Published: December 2023

Aortic wall injuries may occur after interventional treatment of aortic coarctation (CoA), especially after balloon angioplasty. We reported on a patient who presented with an intra‐stent aneurysm formation after direct stenting of a native near atretic aortic CoA by using a BeGraft Aortic stent. This evidence supports the need to maintain a strict follow‐up protocol. A computed tomography scan is mandatory, after covered stent implantation as well, especially in high‐risk cases and even in the absence of any immediate apparent complication.
A case report of angiosarcoma originating from the tongue
Authors: Kusaka Iori , Katagiri Katsunori , Saito Daisuke , Ohashi Yu , Oikawa Shin‐ichi , Tsuchida Kodai , Miyaguchi Jun , Kusaka Takahiro , Ikeda Ryoukichi , Shiga Kiyoto
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Angiosarcoma is a rare malignant disease with an extremely poor prognosis, showing rapid progression of the local tumor and/or distant metastases. Although multidisciplinary approach including systemic chemotherapy and radiation therapy is ideal for this disease, surgical resection have a role in disease control and should be performed as soon as possible.

Angiosarcomas originating from the tongue are rare and have extremely malignant features, leading to a poor prognosis. Herein, we report the case of a patient with angiosarcoma arising from the tongue who was successfully treated surgically. A 71‐year‐old man was diagnosed with a mass on the right side of his tongue and visited the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery at our hospital. The patient was referred to our department for further examination and treatment after a biopsy of the right edge of the tongue. An irregularly raised tumor 50 mm in length was noted on the right lingual border. The preoperative diagnosis was a primary angiosarcoma of the tongue (clinical stage, T3N2bM0, Stage IV). As his tumor had been growing rapidly, he emergently underwent partial right‐sided tongue resection and right neck dissection without reconstructive surgery. The histopathological diagnosis was pT3N0. Postoperatively, the patient showed no signs of recurrence or metastasis during the 1‐year follow‐up. As for angiosarcomas, surgical resection is the only curative treatment, and surgery should be performed as soon as possible after the final diagnosis.
Influence of Environmental Conditions on Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Hu Lang , Sai Xuxu , Liu Xiaoju , Chen Zhou , Wang Guoxiong , Yi Xiaodong
Published: December 2023

In order to address the greenhouse effect and achieve the artificial carbon cycle, the electrocatalytic reduction reactions offer an effective approach for converting carbon dioxide (CO2) into valuable chemicals. In addition to the rational design of catalyst structure to improve the high selective conversion of CO2, exploring the influence of environmental conditions on the reaction path and product types is one of the keys to realizing the high selective conversion of CO2. In this review, we illustrate the important influence of changes in environmental conditions on the effectiveness of electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR) technology from the design of the reactor, the selection of the electrolyte, and the setting of the reaction conditions (pressure, temperature, etc.). Through in‐depth understanding and optimization of these factors, the efficiency and selectivity of the CO2RR can be further improved to promote the development of CO2 conversion technology.
Electrochemical Sensing Based on Nanofibers Modified Electrodes for Application in Diagnostic, Food and Waste Water Samples
Authors: Nazari Maryam , Kashanian Soheila , Parnianchi Fatemeh , Hasanvand Zahra , Mohebbi Marjan , Joseph Yvonne , Rahimi Parvaneh
Published: December 2023

Electrochemical sensors and biosensors are today important analytical and monitoring tools in various fields, from agriculture and the food industry to environmental and biomedical/pharmaceutical applications. In particular, the integration of nanotechnology with electrochemical sensors and biosensors to develop a new generation of sensor platforms has made enormous progress in recent years. The outstanding properties of one‐dimensional (1D) nanofibers (NFs), such as high porosity, superior mechanical properties and high specific surface area have made them attractive electrocatalysts, support materials for the immobilization of biomolecules as well as mimetic materials for sensing and biosensing applications. Moreover, the possibility of fabricating multifunctional composites based on NFs increases (bio)sensing capabilities through synergistic effects and additive properties. This review describes the progress made over the last decade in the use of multifunctional NFs‐based composites as modified electrodes for the sensing of various analytes in biomedical, food, and wastewater treatment applications. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview and a guide for researchers from different disciplines to fabricate and improve their selective NFs‐based (bio)sensor platforms for the detection of desired analytes or multi‐analytes.
Exploration of Strong Metal‐Support Interaction in Heterogeneous Catalysts by in situ Transmission Electron Microscopy
Authors: Jiang Yongjun , Dai Sheng
Published: December 2023

The phenomenon of strong metal‐support interaction (SMSI) observed in supported metal catalysts, usually accompanied by the formation of the encapsulation layer on metal nanoparticles, has attracted extensive research attention due to its significance in heterogeneous catalysis. Notably, great progress has been made in recent years in investigating SMSI by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM), along with an enhanced comprehension of the underlying mechanisms governing SMSI formation. This emerging topic summarizes recent progress utilizing in situ TEM to study the interaction between metal and support and the relationship between the structure and performance of the supported catalyst under reaction conditions. A brief perspective about the use of in situ TEM for further study of SMSI is also presented, showing prospects in this field that will stimulate further upsurging research in promoting the catalytic efficiency of supported catalysts.
The impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) score on dividend payment of large family firms: What is the role of financial constraints? International evidence
Authors: Maquieira Carlos P. , Espinosa‐Méndez Christian , Arias José T.
Published: December 2023

This article studies the relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) score and dividend payment for 274 large family firms in the period 2015–2021. This research has three contributions to the literature. First, to the best of our knowledge this is the first article to focus on large family firms considering their greater importance in stock ownership around the world. Second, this sample covers both developed and emerging nations. Third, our study not only establishes a connection between ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria and dividend payments but also considers how financial constraints moderate the relationship between ESG scores and dividend payments. The results indicate a positive influence of ESG scores on dividend payments. Furthermore, financial constraints of family firms are negatively related to dividend payments. Finally, the moderating effect of financial constraints on the relationship between dividend payment and ESG show that for high levels of financial constraints that dividends are less sensitive to ESG score. The opposite effect is reported when firms show low levels of financial constraints. Practically speaking, the study demonstrates the value of creating a dividend policy that is in line with the ESG score because they are complementary signals. Additionally, it is important to consider financial limitations when planning financial reserves in family firms. This is due to the diminished correlation between ESG score and dividend payments in the presence of financial constraints.
Evaluation of an electrochemical sensor and comparison with spectroscopic approaches as used today in practice for harm reduction in a festival setting—A case study: Analysis of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine samples
Authors: Deconinck Eric , Polet Marie A. , Canfyn Michaël , Duchateau Céline , De Braekeleer Kris , Van Echelpoel Robin , De Wael Karolien , Gremeaux Lies , Degreef Maarten , Balcaen Margot
Published: December 2023

More and more countries and organisations emphasise the value of harm reduction measures in the context of illicit drug use and abuse. One of these measures is drug checking, a preventive action that can represent a quick win by tailored consultation on the risks of substance use upon analytical screening of a submitted sample. Unlike drop‐in centres that operate within a fixed setting, enabling drug checking in a harm reduction context at events requires portable, easy to use analytical approaches, operated by personnel with limited knowledge of analytical chemistry. In this case study, four different approaches were compared for the characterisation of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine samples and this in the way the approaches would be applied today in an event context. The four approaches are mid‐infrared (MIR), near‐infrared, and Raman spectroscopy, which are today used in drug checking context in Belgium, as well as an electrochemical sensor approach initially developed in the context of law enforcement at ports. The MIR and the electrochemical approach came out best, with the latter allowing for a direct straightforward analysis of the percentage 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (as base equivalent) in the samples. However, MIR has the advantage that, in a broader drug checking context, it allows to screen for several molecules and so is able to identify unexpected active components or at least the group to which such components belong. The latter is also an important advantage in the context of the growing emergence of new psychotropic substances.
Saproxylic beetles' morphological traits and higher trophic guilds indicate boreal forest naturalness
Authors: Wetherbee Ross , Birkemoe Tone , Burner Ryan C. , Sverdrup‐Thygeson Anne
Published: December 2023

Forests contribute to numerous ecosystem functions and services and contain a large proportion of terrestrial biodiversity, but they are being negatively impaced by anthropogenic activities. Forests that have never been clear‐cut and have old growth characteristics, termed “near‐natural,” often harbor different and richer species assemblages than managed forests. Alternative management strategies may be able to balance the needs of biodiversity with the demands of forestry, but evaluation efforts are limited by the challenges of measuring biodiversity. Species richness is frequently used as a simple measure of biodiversity, but research indicates that it may not adequately capture community‐level changes. Alternatively, trait‐based measures of biodiversity may prove to be useful, but research is lacking. In this paper, we use a large dataset that includes 339 obligate saproxylic beetle species collected over a decade in the boreal region throughout southern Norway to: (1) establish if there is a difference in beetle community composition between near‐natural and managed forests; and (2) determine which measures of beetle biodiversity best indicate forest naturalness. We arranged the sites in an ordination space and tested for differences in community composition between these forest types. We also tested different measures of biodiversity to determine which were the most predictive of forest naturalness. We found a clear difference in community composition between near‐natural and managed forests. Additionally, three measures of biodiversity were most predictive of forest naturalness: proportional abundance of predators, community weighted mean (CWM) of wing length, and CWM of body roundness. The probability that a forest was near‐natural increased with the proportional abundance of predators but decreased with CWM wing length and body roundness. Although species richness was higher in near‐natural forests, the effect was not significant. Overall, our findings underscore the conservation value of near‐natural forests and highlight the potential of several measures of biodiversity for determining forest quality.