bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimum Pensions and Regional Income Redistribution in Spain
Authors:   University of the Basque Country, PEINADO PATRICIA , SERRANO FELIPE ,   University of the Basque Country
Published: January 2025

One of the instruments used to combat poverty among the elderly is the minimum pension. In Spain,
minimum pension is yearly set by government and has a positive effect on income redistribution between regions. In this contribution we analyze and quantify such redistribution. Results show that
pensions in regions with low per capita income draw higher amount of supplement than regions with
high per capita income. In short, the positive effect of the minimum pension on the income redistribution of the retired population is associated with a relative pension benefit improvement for pensioners in poor regions (above the national average).
Fisheries Research Based on Experimental Fishing Methods in the Coastal Area of Rembang Regency, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Prihantoko Kukuh Eko , Saputra Rafi Zulmy
Published: January 2025

Rembang Regency coastal area is one of the central fishing production in Central Java Province. Various types of fishing gear are used by fishermen for fishing operations and are developed independently. Much research has been conducted in this area related to capture fisheries. This study aims to analyze the research development that uses experimental fishing methods. This study uses a systematic literature review method based on Published or Perish application tools. The results showed that 9 (nine) types of fishing gear were the object of research in the coastal area of Rembang Regency in 2013-2022. Experimental fishing methods have been carried out on 5 (five) types of fishing gear, namely small bottom trawl (arad), folding box traps (bubu lipat), longline (pancing rawai), squid jigging (pancing cumi), and gillnet (jaring insang). Experimental fishing research has been conducted on small bottom trawls, including towing speed and mesh size modification. Folding box traps were studied with escape gap and fishing time variables. Hooks and lines were studied with fish-hook materials and various bait variables. Gill net was studied with webbing modified. The results of this study provide knowledge of the potential for experimental fishing research that can be applied in the future, especially to understand fishing activities in the coastal areas of Rembang regency.
Determinants of Non-Adherence to Antiretroviral Therapy among HIV Positive Adolescents in a Tertiary Hospital in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Bem Tar , Nnaemeka Nwagbo Ambrose , Chukwuemeka Odo Micheal , Ngbede Ocheifa Matthew
Published: January 2025

Aim: The aim of this present study was to determine the prevalence of non-adherence to ART and identify the determinants of non-adherence among HIV-positive adolescents attending a tertiary hospital in north central Nigeria. Non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is a major problem in the care of HIV positive adolescents on antiretroviral treatment because it is thought to impact negatively on their treatment. The prevalence of non-adherence to antiretroviral therapy among adolescent in sub-Saharan Africa is between 40 and 50%. Nigeria has a prevalence of 58%.
Study Design: Using a facility-based cross-sectional study,
Place and Duration of the Study: At sexually transmitted infections clinic, Federal Medical Centre Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria from January 2023 to October 2024.
Methodology: A total of 417 consenting HIV-positive adolescents aged 10-19 years, who had been on ART for at least six months, were recruited using convenience sampling. Data collection included socio-demographic characteristics, the eight-item Morisky medication adherence scale (8-mmas), and an eight-item self-developed scale to assess barriers to adherence. Data analysis was conducted using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) software (version 23.0). Socio-demographic characteristics, prevalence of non-adherence, and determinants of non-adherence were reported as percentages. Chi-square, fisher test, and logistic regression were employed to identify determinants of non-adherence, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.
Results: The prevalence of non-adherence to ART among the study participants was 77.7%. Non-adherence was significantly associated with age, education level, occupation, ethnicity, and fear of stigmatization.
Conclusion: Enhanced adherence counseling, targeted interventions for at-risk adolescents, and a comprehensive approach that includes adherence assessment for those fearing stigmatizations and with unsuppressed viral loads are recommended. These strategies may improve long-term therapeutic success and facilitate the transition from pediatric to adult care in this population.
Production Challenges of Maize in Pakistan: Biotic and Abiotic Factors and Management Approaches
Authors: Batool Rida , Farzand Muqaddas , Ashraf Adeela , Ahmed Sunaina , Mehmood Muzamal , Arif Ali Raza , Ashraf Muhammad Ahmad
Published: January 2025

Maize production in Pakistan faces numerous challenges that hinder large-scale cultivation as well as production. These challenges are primarily biotic, includes weeds, nematodes, disease pathogens, and pests (both vertebrate and invertebrate). Furthermore, there are a number of abiotic obstacles, including soil-related problems, unfavorable weather, nutritional deficits, agronomic, logistical, and societal limitations. Given the growing global population, many of whom rely on maize as a staple food, and its industrial uses, this paper recommends several solutions. Key strategies include adopting proper pest control measures through cultural, chemical, and other methods. For example, pests can be managed by adjusting planting depth expanding the number of extension agents in the area, establishing plant quarantine laboratories, providing soil amendments, and enhancing soil and water management. Cooperatives should be established by farmers to make agricultural inputs more accessible. Furthermore, the government should consider purchasing surplus maize from farmers and offering price incentives to boost the national food reserve, so assisting in resolving the world food issue.
Impact of Weather Variables on Phenophase and Yield of Kharif Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Central Zone of Kerala
Authors: Jyothi Chandana B. , Davis P. Lincy , Ajithkumar B. , Latha A. , M. Sajitha Vijayan. , Vysakh Arjun , K. R Riya
Published: January 2025

Rice is the most commonly consumed crop worldwide, serving as a staple food for almost half of the global population. A field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Mannuthy, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala during kharif season 2023 to assess the impact of weather variables on the growth, development and yield of two short-duration rice varieties, Jyothi and Manuratna. The study revealed that the duration of phenophases varied significantly depending on planting dates and weather conditions. Jyothi variety took longer duration to reach physiological maturity compared to Manuratna. Maximum and minimum temperatures during active tillering to panicle initiation (P2) and heading to 50% flowering (P5) stages had a negative influence on phenophase duration for both varieties, while rainfall positively impacted the duration of active tillering (P1) and physiological maturity (P6). Grain yield varied significantly with planting dates. The higher temperatures during critical growth phases have resulted in reduced yield. Bright sunshine hour positively influenced the yield during 50% flowering to physiological maturity in Manuratna.
Exploring the Potential of Nigella Sativa Seeds: A Modern Perspective on an Ancient Remedy
Authors: Thakur Ankur , Pathania Komal , Sharma Lovish , Deepika
Published: January 2025

Nigella sativa (N. Sativa) seeds are widely recognized for their medicinal properties, which make them valuable for both the culinary and pharmaceutical industries. The traditional plant that is most widely used is N. sativa and also known by other names like black cumin and kalonji. The N. Sativa is grown and distributed throughout India, primarily in the states of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Bengal, and Assam, as well as in Bangladesh, Bangladesh, Syria, Lebanon, Israel, and South Europe. Numerous beneficial and bioactive chemical components, including thymoquinoline, thymoquinone, alpha hydrine, alpha pinene, p-cymene, alkaloides like nigellicimine and nigellicimine N-oxide, sesquiterpenes and thymol, are found in N. Sativa. Due to these bioactive chemical constituents N. Sativa have many biological activities like antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibiotic etc. The review helps to introduce about the current trends about numerous drawing out techniques, including cold extraction, microwave-assisted extraction (MEA), and ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), have been widely used to maximize the yield of these bioactive compounds. These methods are effective in isolating the highest percentage of the seed’s chemical constituents. Nigella sativa has established amazing medicinal properties, chiefly in its ability to combat various types of cancer such as blood, skin, cervical, colon, liver, prostate, breast, and kidney cancers. Beyond cancer treatment, the seed extract, oil, and whole seeds have shown effectiveness in managing conditions like oxidative stress, hypertension, diabetes, ulcers, epilepsy, fatty liver, asthma, arthritis, and inflammatory diseases. Furthermore, Nigella sativa also shows potential intreating parasitic infections
Utilization of Disposable Mask Waste and Coconut Fiber as an Acoustic Composite Material
Authors: Ramadhani Khairunnissa , Aziz Arrizal Abdul , Ramadhan Miftahul Akbar , Alifah Amara Huaida , Ramadhan Try
Published: January 2025

This research aims to utilize disposable mask waste and coconut fiber as an acoustic composite material and identify its sound absorption characteristics. The method used in this research is an experiment to produce four samples with different non-woven polypropylene and coconut fiber composition. The samples went through multiple tests to identify its morphology, mass change in different temperatures, density, and sound absorption coefficient. The result of this research shows that these materials display sound absorption characteristics and can be applied for acoustic purposes. Acoustic material with 100% non-woven polypropylene displays the best sound absorber characteristics, especially for 500Hz frequency sound. However, acoustic material with composition of 90% non-woven polypropylene and 10% coconut fiber shows a better sound absorption coefficient in 2000Hz frequency.
As Laws Restricting Health Care Surge, Some US Physicians Choose Between Fight or Flight
Authors: Suran Melissa
Published: May 2023

In this Medical News article, 13 physicians and health care experts spoke with JAMA about the increasing efforts to criminalize evidence-based medical care in the US.
Eruptive Acral Nevi Secondary to Treatment With Chemotherapy
Authors: Stewart Catherine J. , Hawkins C. Nicole
Published: May 2023

This case report describes an eruption of junctional nevi on the dorsum of both feet.
Association of Somatic ATP2A2 Damaging Variants With Grover Disease
Authors: Seli Devin , Ellis Katharine T. , Goldust Mohamad , Shah Khadim , Hu Ronghua , Zhou Jing , McNiff Jennifer M. , Choate Keith A.
Published: May 2023

Importance

Grover disease (GD), a truncal eruption that typically occurs in older individuals, is exacerbated by sweating, irradiation, cancers, medications, kidney failure, and organ transplantation. The pathobiology of GD remains unknown.

Objective

To determine if damaging somatic single-nucleotide variants (SNVs) are associated with GD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

In this retrospective case series, we identified consecutive patients from a dermatopathology archive over a 4-year period (January 2007 to December 2011) who had 1 biopsy with a clinical diagnosis of GD confirmed via histopathologic findings and another non-GD biopsy. Participant DNA was extracted from both biopsy tissues and sequenced to high depth with a 51-gene panel to screen for SNVs in genes previously associated with acantholysis and Mendelian disorders of cornification. Analysis took place between 2021 and 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Comparative analysis of sequencing data from paired GD and control tissue was employed to identify SNVs predicted to affect gene function, which were exclusive to, or highly enriched in, GD tissue.

Results

Overall, 12 of 15 cases of GD (12 men and 3 women; mean [SD] age, 68.3 [10.0] years) were associated with C>T or G>A ATP2A2 SNVs in GD tissue; all were predicted to be highly damaging via combined annotation dependent depletion (CADD) scores, and 4 were previously associated with Darier disease. In 9 cases (75%), the GD-associated ATP2A2 SNV was absent from control tissue DNA, and in 3 cases (25%), ATP2A2 SNVs were enriched 4- to 22-fold in GD vs control tissue.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this case series study of 15 patients, damaging somatic ATP2A2 SNVs were associated with GD. This discovery expands the spectrum of acantholytic disorders associated with ATP2A2 SNVs and highlights the role of somatic variation in acquired disorders.
Association of Trauma With Long-Term Risk of Death and Immune-Mediated or Cancer Disease in Same-Sex Twins
Authors: Eskesen Trine O. , Sillesen Martin , Pedersen Jacob Krabbe , Pedersen Dorthe Almind , Christensen Kaare , Rasmussen Lars S. , Steinmetz Jacob
Published: May 2023

Importance

Immediate consequences of trauma include a rapid and immense activation of the immune system, whereas long-term outcomes include premature death, physical disability, and reduced workability.

Objective

To investigate if moderate to severe trauma is associated with long-term increased risk of death or immune-mediated or cancer disease.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This registry-based, matched, co-twin control cohort study linked the Danish Twin Registry and the Danish National Patient Registry to identify twin pairs in which 1 twin had been exposed to severe trauma and the other twin had not from 1994 to 2018. The co-twin control design allowed for matching on genetic and environmental factors shared within twin pairs.

Exposure

Twin pairs were included if 1 twin had been exposed to moderate to severe trauma and the other twin had not (ie, co-twin). Only twin pairs where both twins were alive 6 months after the trauma event were included.

Main Outcome and Measure

Twin pairs were followed up from 6 months after trauma until 1 twin experienced the primary composite outcome of death or 1 of 24 predefined immune-mediated or cancer diseases or end of follow-up. Cox proportional hazards regression was used for intrapair analyses of the association between trauma and the primary outcome.

Results

A total of 3776 twin pairs were included, and 2290 (61%) were disease free prior to outcome analysis and were eligible for the analysis of the primary outcome. The median (IQR) age was 36.4 (25.7-50.2) years. The median (IQR) follow-up time was 8.6 (3.8-14.5) years. Overall, 1268 twin pairs (55%) reached the primary outcome; the twin exposed to trauma was first to experience the outcome in 724 pairs (32%), whereas the co-twin was first in 544 pairs (24%). The hazard ratio for reaching the composite outcome was 1.33 (95% CI, 1.19-1.49) for twins exposed to trauma. Analyses of death or immune-mediated or cancer disease as separate outcomes provided hazard ratios of 1.91 (95% CI, 1.68-2.18) and 1.28 (95% CI, 1.14-1.44), respectively.

Conclusion and Relevance

In this study, twins exposed to moderate to severe trauma had significantly increased risk of death or immune-mediated or cancer disease several years after trauma compared with their co-twins.
Preoperative assessment of pleural adhesions in patients with lung cancer based on quantitative motion analysis with dynamic chest radiography: A retrospective study
Authors: Tanaka Rie , Matsumoto Isao , Takayama Tetsuya , Ohkura Noriyuki , Inoue Dai
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Preoperative assessment of pleural adhesion is crucial for appropriate surgical planning. This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate the usefulness of motion analysis using dynamic chest radiography (DCR) for assessing pleural adhesions.

Methods

Sequential chest radiographs of 146 lung cancer patients with or without pleural adhesions (n = 25/121) were obtained using a DCR system during respiration (registration number: 1729). The local motion vector was measured, and the percentage of poor motion area to the maximum expiration lung area (%lung area with poor motion) was calculated. Subsequently, percentage values ≥49.0% were considered to indicate pleural adhesions. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated to assess the prediction performance. The percentage of lung area with poor motion was compared between patients with and without pleural adhesions (p < 0.05).

Results

DCR‐based motion analysis correctly predicted pleural adhesions in 21 out of 25 patients, with 47 false‐positive results (sensitivity, 84.0%; specificity, 61.2%; PPV, 30.9%; NPV, 94.9%). The lung with pleural adhesions showed a significantly greater %lung area with poor motion than the opposite lung in the same patient, similar to the cancerous lung in patients without pleural adhesions.

Conclusion

On DCR‐based motion analysis, pleural adhesions could be indicated by an increase in the percentage of lung area with poor motion. Although the proposed method cannot identify the exact location of pleural adhesions, information regarding the presence or absence of pleural adhesions provided by DCR would help surgeons prepare for challenging surgeries and obtain informed consent from patients.
Dominant‐negative variant in SLC1A4 causes an autosomal dominant epilepsy syndrome
Authors: Pujol‐Giménez Jonai , Mirzaa Ghayda , Blue Elizabeth E. , Albano Giuseppe , Miller Danny E. , Allworth Aimee , Bennett James T. , Byers Peter H. , Chanprasert Sirisak , Chen Jingheng , Doherty Daniel , Folta Andrew B. , Gillentine Madelyn A. , Glass Ian , Hing Anne , Horike‐Pyne Martha , Leppig Kathleen A. , Parhin Azma , Ranchalis Jane , Raskind Wendy H. , Rosenthal Elisabeth A. , Schwarze Ulrike , Sheppeard Sam , Strohbehn Samuel , Sybert Virginia P. , Timms Andrew , Wener Mark ,   University of Washington Center for Mendelian Genomics (UW‐CMG), Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN), Bamshad Michael J. , Hisama Fuki M. , Jarvik Gail P. , Dipple Katrina M. , Hediger Matthias A. , Stergachis Andrew B.
Published: May 2023

SLC1A4 is a trimeric neutral amino acid transporter essential for shuttling L‐serine from astrocytes into neurons. Individuals with biallelic variants in SLC1A4 are known to have spastic tetraplegia, thin corpus callosum, and progressive microcephaly (SPATCCM) syndrome, but individuals with heterozygous variants are not thought to have disease. We identify an 8‐year‐old patient with global developmental delay, spasticity, epilepsy, and microcephaly who has a de novo heterozygous three amino acid duplication in SLC1A4 (L86_M88dup). We demonstrate that L86_M88dup causes a dominant‐negative N‐glycosylation defect of SLC1A4, which in turn reduces the plasma membrane localization of SLC1A4 and the transport rate of SLC1A4 for L‐serine.
The effects of load reduction instruction on educational outcomes: An intervention study on hands‐on inquiry‐based learning in science
Authors: Kadir Munirah Shaik , Yeung Alexander Seeshing , Caleon Imelda Santos , Diallo Thierno M. O. , Forbes Anne , Koh Wei Xun
Published: May 2023

Load reduction instruction (LRI) is an instructional approach designed to manage the cognitive load on students as they learn complex learning materials. According to Cognitive Load Theory, complex learning is associated with high cognitive load and when not effectively managed, could impede learning. Inquiry‐based learning with hands‐on component, where students conduct experiments to find solutions to problems, are known to incur high cognitive load. In this study, we examined the effects on students' educational outcomes when the five key principles of the LRI framework were implemented to reduce the cognitive load of inquiry‐based learning with hands‐on involvement. Multiple regression analysis was used to compare the educational outcomes of the intervention and control groups. The control group also experienced hands‐on inquiry‐based learning, but without LRI. Results showed that students in the intervention group had better outcomes, indicating the effectiveness of LRI in managing the high cognitive load of complex instruction.
Adaptive fuzzy finite‐time fault‐tolerant control design for nonlinear pure‐feedback systems with sensor faults
Authors: You Guodong , Shen Zhifang , Xu Bin , Zhang Chuanlei , Zhao Shuangle , Hou Xiaoxin , Liu Zhifeng
Published: May 2023

This article investigates an adaptive fuzzy finite‐time fault‐tolerant control (FTC) scheme for nonlinear pure‐feedback systems (PFSs) with sensor faults. The pure‐feedback system in this article includes time‐varying fault factors and unknown nonlinear functions. Choose the time‐varying fault separation method to keep the fault parameters away from the actual state to avoid coupling problems. Using the mean‐value theorem (MVT) to handle the non‐affine functions in the system and effectively decouple the control input signals. The approximation capability of the fuzzy logic systems (FLSs) is utilized to handle the unknown functions in the system and combined with the backstepping techniques for the construction of the adaptive fault‐tolerant controller. Using Lyapunov theory to verify the stability of closed‐loop system. Finally, choose two simulation examples verified the validity of the control strategy.
In Situ Self‐Assembly Supramolecular Antagonist Reinforces Radiotherapy by Inhibiting Tumor Apoptosis Evasion
Authors: Hou Xiaoxue , Yang Lijun , Li Paiyun , Liu Jinjian , Zhang Yumin , Wang Qian , Wang Dianyu , Peng Shiyu , Su Linzhu , Zhang Wenxue , Huang Fan , Liu Jianfeng
Published: May 2023

Radiosensitizers hold great promise for enhanced cancer radiotherapeutics. However, apoptosis evasion of cancerous cells usually limits the efficiency of radiosensitive strategies. Herein, an in situ self‐assembled supramolecular antagonist is developed to reinforce the treatment outcome of radiotherapy by inhibiting tumor apoptosis evasion. The supramolecular antagonist is composed of self‐assembled peptide functionalized with apoptosis‐inducing peptide SmacN7 and alkaline phosphatase (ALP)‐responsive group. Upon reaching the tumor site, the supramolecular antagonist can in situ form membrane‐localized nanofibers triggered by ALP overexpressing in tumor cells, leading to enhanced cellular internalization. As a result, the cell‐permeable supramolecular antagonist effectively binds to the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) and eliminates their inhibitory effect on caspase activity, thereby remarkably blocking the apoptosis evasion of tumor cells and boosting the therapeutic efficacy of radiotherapy. Furthermore, in vivo studies confirm that treatment with in situ self‐assembled supramolecular antagonists can enhance radiation‐induced tumor destruction without perceptible systemic toxicity. This study offers a novel strategy of tumor apoptosis evasion inhibition to potentiate radiotherapy, which may be instructive to the development of advanced cancer therapies.
Interlayer Spacing Regulation by Single‐Atom Indiumδ+–N4 on Carbon Nitride for Boosting CO2/CO Photo‐Conversion
Authors: Ding Cheng , Lu Xinxin , Tao Bo , Yang Liuqing , Xu Xiaoyong , Tang Lanqin , Chi Haoqiang , Yang Yong , Meira Debora Motta , Wang Lu , Zhu Xi , Li Si , Zhou Yong , Zou Zhigang
Published: May 2023

Simultaneous optimization on bulk photogenerated‐carrier separation and surface atomic arrangement of catalyst is crucial for reactivity of CO2 photo‐reduction. Rare studies capture the detail that, better than in‐plane regulation, interlayer‐spacing regulation may significantly influence the carrier transport of the bulk‐catalyst thereby affecting its CO2 photo‐reduction in g‐C3N4. Herein, through a single atom‐assisted thermal‐polymerization process, single‐atom In‐bonded N‐atom (Inδ+–N4) in the (002) crystal planes of g‐C3N4 is originally constructed. This Inδ+–N4 reduces the (002) interplanar spacing of g‐C3N4 by electrostatic adsorption, which significantly enhances the separation of bulk carriers and greatly promotes the reactivity of CO2 photoreduction. The CO2 photo‐conversion performance of this resulted single‐atom In modified g‐C3N4 is significantly superior to other single atom loaded carbon nitride catalysts. Moreover, the Inδ+–N4 enhances the CO2 adsorption on g‐C3N4, reduces the *COOH formation energy, and optimizes the reaction path. It achieves a remarkable 398.87 µmol g−1 h−1 yield rate, 0.21% apparent quantum efficiency, and nearly 100% selectivity for CO without any cocatalyst or sacrificial agent. Through d(002) modulation of carbon nitride by single In atom, this study provides a ground‐breaking insight for reactivity enhancement from a double‐gain view of bulk structural control and surface atomic arrangement for CO2‐reduction photocatalysts.
Photophysical Properties of Pyrene‐Substituted nido‐Carborate Anion and the Change of Luminescence Species by Counter Cations in Solution and Solid States
Authors: Yanagihara Takumi , Tanaka Kazuo
Published: May 2023

This study reports unique luminescent properties of pyrene‐substituted nido‐carborate anion (PYnCA) with two counter cations, tetrabutylammonium (NBu4+) and tetraphenylphosphonium (PPh4+). It is revealed that PYnCA shows twisted intramolecular charge transfer (TICT) emission by the change of the dihedral angle between pyrene and the CcageCcage bond in the carborane unit in the excited state. Although the structure of nCA is almost same as that of ortho‐carborane (oC), the photophysical processes of both pyrene‐substituted compounds are completely different. The study also succeeds in modulating the luminescence species by counter cations in both solution and solid states. To the best of the current knowledge, this is the first report that anion‐based luminescent materials can show the different luminescent species not only in solution but also in the mechanochromic behaviors depending on the type of counter cations. This fundamental research on nCA demonstrates anion‐based emitters as a new platform for stimuli‐responsive materials.
Merging Continuous Flow Technology, Photochemistry and Biocatalysis to Streamline Steroid Synthesis
Authors: Tomarelli Elena , Cerra Bruno , Mutti Francesco G. , Gioiello Antimo
Published: May 2023

Since their structural elucidation in 1935, the introduction and substitution of functional groups and the modification of the steroidal scaffolds have been a fertile ground of research for synthetic and medicinal chemists. The discovery of steroids with hormonal and pharmacological activity has stimulated tremendous efforts to the development of highly selective and efficient synthetic procedures. Despite the progress made, steroid chemistry remains challenging and the preparation of steroidal compounds of pharmaceutical interests and in clinical practice, often requires long and elaborated synthesis. In recent years, a new impetus in the field came with the advent of enabling chemical technologies, such as continuous flow chemistry, which are exploited to overcome problems that arise from batch synthesis. Although it is still a niche sector, the use of flow technology in steroid synthesis and functionalization holds the premise to empower methodology development and to provide innovative tactics also for many hitherto uncharted chemistries. In this review, scientific contributions are reported and discussed in terms of flow set‐up and advantages offered concerning process efficiency, optimization, waste minimization, safety improvement, easy scale‐up and costs. We also highlight the main challenges, key improvements and the future trajectory in the application of continuous flow chemistry and its implementation to different disciplines such as photochemistry and biocatalysis with the ultimate goal of streamlining steroid synthesis.
Enhanced Solar CO2 Photoreduction to Formic Acid by Platinum Immobilization on Bipyridine Covalent Triazine Framework with Defects
Authors: Kaya Kerem , Ditz Daniel , Jaworski Aleksander , Chen Jianhong , Monti Susanna , Barcaro Giovanni , Budnyk Serhiy , Slabon Adam , Palkovits Regina
Published: May 2023

The immobilization and structural analysis of platinum nanoparticles on a nitrogen‐rich, bipyridine‐containing covalent triazine framework (bpyCTF) having structural defects are disclosed by taking advantage of 15N solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance measurements at natural 15N isotope abundance and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic analyses. The photocatalyst (Pt@bpyCTF) with structural defects reduces CO2 to formic acid (FA) at a rate of 152 µmol h−1g−1 and a selectivity higher than 95% over CO and H2 in water under simulated solar light. The presence of amine defects and the immobilization of Pt cause improvement in the photocurrent density and CO2 capture capacity (≈8% by weight) despite the moderate surface area (0.54 cm3 g−1)of the photocatalyst. Theoretical models and density functional theory calculations are employed to investigate the possible CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) mechanisms. Considering the exceptional CO2 capture capacity and high FA production using only CO2‐bubbled water, this work highlights the great potential of nitrogen‐rich CTFs for photocatalyzed CO2RRs under green conditions.
Development of siRNA and Budesonide Dual‐Loaded Hybrid Lipid–Polymer Nanoparticles by Microfluidics Technology as a Platform for Dual Drug Delivery to Macrophages: An In Vitro Mechanistic Study
Authors: Cerdá Sandra López , Fontana Flavia , Wang Shiqi , Correia Alexandra , Molinaro Giuseppina , Tello Rubén Pareja , Hirvonen Jouni , Celia Christian , Barreto Goncalo , Santos Hélder A.
Published: May 2023

Macrophages play a key role in the development of many diseases, like tissue injury, cancer, and autoimmune diseases. So far, single‐drug loaded nanoparticles are developed to target macrophages. Nevertheless, macrophage dysregulation can induce multiple conditions, i.e., inflammation and fibrosis. Therefore, the simultaneous codelivery of a small molecule drug and a small interfering RNA (siRNA) for gene silencing may be beneficial to modulate macrophage dysfunction. Herein, hybrid lipid–polymer nanoparticles (LPNs) coloaded with both budesonide and enhanced green fluorescence protein siRNA (eGFP‐siRNA) as model anti‐inflammatory small molecule drug and siRNA, respectively, are developed by an optimized microfluidics method. Specifically, a poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) core is coated by a lipid shell, and LPNs with size homogeneity and colloidal stability are obtained. Both payloads are loaded efficiently, and a controlled release is achieved. Additionally, LPNs are nontoxic in murine RAW 264.7 cells and human THP‐1 cells and are efficiently taken up by these cells. Finally, the transfection efficiency of dual‐loaded LPNs is high at low LPNs doses, thus proving the suitability of this nanosystem for gene silencing. Overall, the optimized LPNs are a suitable nanoplatform for the dual drug delivery to macrophages for the treatment of complex conditions requiring dual therapeutic approaches.
Deep Learning Model to Predict Ice Crystal Growth
Authors: Tseng Bor‐Yann , Guo Chen‐Wei Conan , Chien Yu‐Chen , Wang Jyn‐Ping , Yu Chi‐Hua
Published: May 2023

The demand for highly specific and complex materials has made the development of controllable manufacturing processes crucial. Among the numerous manufacturing methods, casting is important because it is economical and highly flexible regarding the geometry of manufactured parts. Since solidification is an important stage in the casting process that influences the properties of the final product, the development of a controllable solidification process using modeling methods is necessary to create superior structural properties. However, traditional modeling methods are computationally expensive and require sophisticated mathematical schemes. Therefore, a deep learning model is proposed to predict the morphology of the dendritic crystal growth solidification process, along with a reinforcement learning model to control the solidification process. By training the deep learning model with data generated using the phase field method, the solidification process can be successfully predicted. The crystal growth structures are designed to be altered by adjusting the degree of supercooling in the deep learning model while implementing reinforcement learning to control the dendritic arteries. This research opens new avenues for applying artificial intelligence to the optimization of casting processes, with the potential to utilize it in the processing of advanced materials and to improve the target properties of material design.
Miscibility Regulation and Thermal Annealing Induced Hierarchical Morphology Enables High‐Efficiency All‐Small‐Molecule Organic Solar Cells Over 17%
Authors: Guo Jing , Qiu Beibei , Xia Xinxin , Zhang Jinyuan , Qin Shucheng , Li Xiaojun , Lu Xinhui , Meng Lei , Zhang Zhanjun , Li Yongfang
Published: May 2023

Achieving an ideal morphology to realize efficient charge generation and transport is an imperative avenue to improve the photovoltaic performance of all small‐molecule organic solar cells (SM‐OSCs). Here, ternary SM‐OSCs are fabricated based on a new small molecule donor, SM‐mB, and an alloyed blend acceptor of Y6 and its derivative, L8‐BO, and desirable hierarchical morphology with appropriate nanoscale phase separation is successfully realized through adjusting the thermal annealing treatment conditions and compositions of mixed acceptors in the active layer. Then the ternary SM‐OSCs achieve an excellent PCE of 17.06 %, which is one of the best results for the SM‐OSCs so far. The desirable morphology can be ascribed to the optimization of the miscibility‐driven donor and acceptor blend morphology that takes full advantage of the individual advantages of both acceptors, which facilitate efficient charge generation and extraction with more balanced charge carrier mobilities. More importantly, the photovoltaic performance of the ternary SM‐OSCs possesses a high tolerance to the device fabrication conditions, including thermal annealing treatment, and is insensitive to film thickness, which is beneficial for large‐area manufacture and future practical applications.
Evaluation of clinical response to empirical antimicrobial therapy on day 7 and mortality in the intensive care unit: sub‐analysis of the DIANA study Japanese data
Authors: Tanaka Chie , Tagami Takashi , Kuno Masamune , Unemoto Kyoko ,   DIANA Study Japanese Group
Published: May 2023

Aim

It is not clear whether evaluating the clinical response to antibiotic use at day 7 among critically ill patients accurately predicts outcomes. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between clinical response to the initial empiric therapy on day 7 and mortality.

Methods

The determinants of antimicrobial use and de‐escalation in critical care (DIANA) study was an international, multicenter, observational study on antibiotic use in the intensive care unit (ICU). ICU patients ages over 18 years in whom an empiric antimicrobial regimen in Japan was initiated were included. We compared patients who were evaluated as cured or improved (“effective”) 7 days after starting antibiotic treatment with patients who were evaluated as deteriorated (“failure”).

Results

Overall, 217 (83%) patients were in the effective group, and 45 (17%) were in the failure group. Both the infection‐related mortality rate in the ICU and the in‐hospital infection‐related mortality rate in the effective group were lower than those in the failure group (0% versus 24.4%; P < 0.01 and 0.5% versus 28.9%; P < 0.01, respectively).

Conclusion

Assessment of efficacy of empiric antimicrobial treatment on day 7 may predict a favorable outcome among patients suffering from infection in the ICU.
A New Sodium Thioborate Fast Ion Conductor: Na3B5S9
Authors: Zhou Laidong , Bazak J. David , Singh Baltej , Li Chang , Assoud Abdeljalil , Washton Nancy M. , Murugesan Vijayakumar , Nazar Linda F.
Published: May 2023

We report a new sodium fast‐ion conductor, Na3B5S9, that exhibits a high Na ion total conductivity of 0.80 mS cm−1 (sintered pellet; cold‐pressed pellet=0.21 mS cm−1). The structure consists of corner‐sharing B10S20 supertetrahedral clusters, which create a framework that supports 3D Na ion diffusion channels. The Na ions are well‐distributed in the channels and form a disordered sublattice spanning five Na crystallographic sites. The combination of structural elucidation via single crystal X‐ray diffraction and powder synchrotron X‐ray diffraction at variable temperatures, solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance spectra and ab initio molecular dynamics simulations reveal high Na‐ion mobility (predicted conductivity: 0.96 mS cm−1) and the nature of the 3D diffusion pathways. Notably, the Na ion sublattice orders at low temperatures, resulting in isolated Na polyhedra and thus much lower ionic conductivity. This highlights the importance of a disordered Na ion sublattice—and existence of well‐connected Na ion migration pathways formed via face‐sharing polyhedra—in dictating Na ion diffusion.
Supramolecular Peptide Nanostructures Regulate Catalytic Efficiency and Selectivity
Authors: Li Zhao , Joshi Soumil Y. , Wang Yin , Deshmukh Sanket A. , Matson John B.
Published: May 2023

We report three constitutionally isomeric tetrapeptides, each comprising one glutamic acid (E) residue, one histidine (H) residue, and two lysine (KS) residues functionalized with side‐chain hydrophobic S‐aroylthiooxime (SATO) groups. Depending on the order of amino acids, these amphiphilic peptides self‐assembled in aqueous solution into different nanostructures:nanoribbons, a mixture of nanotoroids and nanoribbons, or nanocoils. Each nanostructure catalyzed hydrolysis of a model substrate, with the nanocoils exhibiting the greatest rate enhancement and the highest enzymatic efficiency. Coarse‐grained molecular dynamics simulations, analyzed with unsupervised machine learning, revealed clusters of H residues in hydrophobic pockets along the outer edge of the nanocoils, providing insight for the observed catalytic rate enhancement. Finally, all three supramolecular nanostructures catalyzed hydrolysis of the l‐substrate only when a pair of enantiomeric Boc‐l/d‐Phe‐ONp substrates were tested. This study highlights how subtle molecular‐level changes can influence supramolecular nanostructures, and ultimately affect catalytic efficiency.
Merging Boron and Carbonyl based MR‐TADF Emitter Designs to Achieve High Performance Pure Blue OLEDs**
Authors: Wu Sen , Zhang Le , Wang Jingxiang , Kumar Gupta Abhishek , Samuel Ifor D. W. , Zysman‐Colman Eli
Published: May 2023

Multiresonant thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) compounds are attractive as emitters for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) as they can simultaneously harvest both singlet and triplet excitons to produce light in the device and show very narrow emission spectra, which translates to excellent color purity. Here, we report the first example of an MR‐TADF emitter (DOBDiKTa) that fuses together fragments from the two major classes of MR‐TADF compounds, those containing boron (DOBNA) and those containing carbonyl groups (DiKTa) as acceptor fragments in the MR‐TADF skeleton. The resulting molecular design, this compound shows desirable narrowband pure blue emission and efficient TADF character. The co‐host OLED with DOBDiKTa as the emitter showed a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 17.4 %, an efficiency roll‐off of 32 % at 100 cd m−2, and Commission Internationale de l’Éclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.14, 0.12). Compared to DOBNA and DiKTa, DOBDiKTa shows higher device efficiency with reduced efficiency roll‐off while maintaining a high color purity, which demonstrates the promise of the proposed molecular design.
Thermal and redox responsive polyamidoamine dendrimer–poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) bridged by disulfide linkages for targeted and controlled drug delivery system
Authors: Luu Cuong Hung , Nguyen Dinh Tien Dung , Chee Ching Yern , Thi Tram Chau Nguyen , Nguyen Dong Yen Pham , Nguyen Dai Hai , Nguyen Cuu Khoa
Published: May 2023

Multifactor‐responsive nanomaterials have been playing a vital role in drug delivery developments. Given the advantages of nanotechnology‐based systems, employing stimuli‐sensitive agents could offer a step forward to targeted drug delivery. Hence, we targeted to apply both thermal and redox‐sensitive agents, which are poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPAM) and disulfide, onto a classic platform polyamidoamine (PAMAM) dendrimer. In particular, PAMAM G3.5 was first grafted by an outermost layer composed of cystamine moieties and partially grafted with PNIPAM segments. This novel nanomaterial was successfully verified by FTIR, 1H NMR, and Raman spectroscopy. Besides, morphological and surface characteristics were observed by DLS, TEM, and zeta potential. Our novel drug delivery system displayed a spherical shape with a hydrodynamic size of 43.61 ± 6.04 nm at 37°C and 68.99 ± 4.69 nm at 15°C, which proved its thermoresponsiveness. In parallel, the response of the nanoparticles toward redox concentration variation was testified that demonstrated a controlled drug release highly depending on physiological stimuli. We have also conducted in vitro DOX release and cytocompatibility of this drug delivery system, which can premise a smart strategy for nanoengineering in targeted drug delivery for cancer therapy.
Toxicity reduction of natural rubber gloves using protein crosslinking technique
Authors: Suwandittakul Piyada , Montha Suriyakamon , Ubol Preeyawis Na , Kongkaew Chaveewan , Kositanont Chayanoot
Published: May 2023

For natural rubber (NR) gloves, residual latex processing chemicals are the important substances that cause adverse reactions to users who are sensitive to them. Many attempts have therefore been made to reduce or eliminate these leachable chemicals from the gloves such as natural compound addition and polymer coating. The current study proposed a novel alternative method to reduce chemical allergens from NR gloves by protein crosslinking through the Maillard reaction that is possible to adapt to the existing glove production. Commercial NR gloves were initially treated with various concentrations of glutaraldehyde, a crosslinking agent, ranging from 0.00% to 1.00%w/w prior to being tested for cytotoxicity, contact angle, water absorption, and mechanical properties. Artificial sweat and culture medium with serum (complete medium) were used as vehicles for in vitro cytotoxicity tests. Results from the test revealed that, regardless of the vehicle type, increasing glutaraldehyde concentration reduced the toxicity of NR gloves, indicating the reduction of leachable toxic substances after the treatment. Contact angle and water absorption resistance were found to increase with increasing glutaraldehyde concentration, reflecting the enhanced hydrophobicity of the treatment. The mechanical properties of the gloves were not significantly different after such treatment. The results confirm the potential use of this protein crosslinking method to reduce the allergy problem of NR gloves.
The effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation applied at different muscle lengths on muscle architecture and sarcomere morphology in rats
Authors: Uçar Nehir , Öner Hakan , Kuş Murat Abdulgani , Karaca Harun , Fırat Tüzün
Published: May 2023

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is often used to increase muscle strength and functionality. Muscle architecture is important for the skeletal muscle functionality. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of NMES applied at different muscle lengths on skeletal muscle architecture. Twenty‐four rats were randomly assigned to four groups (two NMES groups and two control groups). NMES was applied on the extensor digitorum longus muscle at long muscle length, which is the longest and stretched position of the muscle at 170° plantar flexion, and at medium muscle length, which is the length of the muscle at 90° plantar flexion. A control group was created for each NMES group. NMES was applied for 8 weeks, 10 min/day, 3 days/week. After 8 weeks, muscle samples were removed at the NMES intervention lengths and examined macroscopically, and microscopically using a transmission electron microscope and streo‐microscope. Muscle damage, and architectural properties of the muscle including pennation angle, fibre length, muscle length, muscle mass, physiological cross‐sectional area, fibre length/muscle length, sarcomere length, sarcomere number were then evaluated. There was an increase in fibre length and sarcomere number, and a decrease in pennation angle at both lengths. In the long muscle length group, muscle length was increased, but widespread muscle damage was observed. These results suggest that the intervention of NMES at long muscle length can increase the muscle length but also causes muscle damage. In addition, the greater longitudinal increase in muscle length may be a result of the continuous degeneration‐regeneration cycle.
BENDing with Polycomb in pluripotency and cancer
Authors: Khan Abid , Prasanth Supriya G.
Published: May 2023

Three recent publications on BEND3 firmly establish its role as a novel sequence‐specific transcription factor that is essential for PRC2 recruitment and maintenance of pluripotency. Here, we briefly review our current understanding of the BEND3‐PRC2 axis in the regulation of pluripotency and also explore the possibility of a similar connection in cancer.
A microfluidic lung‐on‐a‐chip based on biomimetic hydrogel membrane
Authors: Shen Chong , Yang Huiming , She Wenqi , Meng Qin
Published: May 2023

Lung‐on‐chips have showed great promise as a tool to recapitulate the respiratory system for investigation of lung diseases in the past decade. However, the commonly applied artificial elastic membrane (e.g., polydimethylsiloxane, PDMS) in the chip failed to mimic the alveolar basal membrane in the composition and mechanical properties. Here we replaced the PDMS film by a thin, biocompatible, soft, and stretchable membrane based on F127‐DA hydrogel that well approached to the composition and stiffness of extracellular matrix in human alveoli for construction of lung‐on‐a‐chip. This chip well reconstructed the mechanical microenvironments in alveoli so that the epithelial/endothelial functions were highly expressed with a well established alveolar‐capillary barrier. In opposite to the unexpectedly accelerated fibrotic process on the PDMS‐based lung‐on‐a‐chip, HPAEpiCs on hydrogel‐based chip only presented fibrosis under nonphysiologically high strain, well reflecting the features of pulmonary fibrosis in vivo. This physiologically relevant lung‐on‐a‐chip would be an ideal model in investigation of lung diseases and for development of antifibrosis drugs.