bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tepperotettix reliqua (Orthoptera: Tetrigidae), a lonely Papuan relict in Australia
Authors: Kasalo Niko , Fisher Nicholas John , Creek Evan , Connors Matthew
Published: February 2023

Australia is a biogeographically interesting region in which Tetrigidae are understudied. This paper provides numerous new records of the species Tepperotettix reliqua Rehn, 1952 and expands the information about its distribution and habitat. With nearly 300 hundred published records, this species becomes one of the most well-known tetrigid from Australia. The literature regarding the species is critically reviewed and discussed. A discussion comparing T. reliqua to similar species is carried out to review the hypotheses regarding its taxonomy and evolution. The species Devriesetettix dorreus Tumbrinck, 2014a is found to be a probable close relative of T. reliqua but their evolutionary history remains a mystery. Both species do not possess the morphology that would allow them to be classified under Cladonotinae but without a comprehensive review, it is difficult to properly place them.
Growth and Trend in Area, Production, and Yield of Wheat Crops in Uttar Pradesh: A Johansen Co-integration Approach
Authors: Khan Amir , Ansari Saghir Ahmad , Ansari Shoaib , Rehmat Alfishan , Fateh Mohd , Khan Mohd Shadab
Published: February 2023

This study investigated wheat crop area, production, and yield in Uttar Pradesh. Wheat crop data from 1990-91 to 2019-20 were obtained. Compound growth rate and trend analysis show that wheat crop area has reduced due to shift of rabi crops. The growth in Uttar Pradesh's per-hectare yield boosted wheat production from 1990-91 to 2019-20. The methods were calculated indicate use of semi log trend function and Johansen cointegration results, which reveal that number of irrigations affects wheat production. The study founds that cropping intensity, fertilizer, and transportation positively affected wheat production.
Regional Disparities in the Level of Economic Development in Nashik District: A Geographical Analysis
Authors: Ahire Dhanraj Kalu , Bachhav N. B.
Published: February 2023

The present investigation was studying the regional disparities in level of economic development of Nashik district a geographical analysis. It was based on secondary data collected from different government organizations and in government reports. The data covered 2021-22. All the sectors of economic development indicators, cropping intensity, irrigation intensity, area under crops, electricity usage, working population, road distances, percentage of BPL family, were considered for this study. The Z score method was applied in analysing the measurement of economic development. The studied regional diversity which was found in economic development in the study region. High development was found in Nashik, Malegoan, Niphad and Baglan.tahsil while moderate economic development was recorded in Chandwad, Dindori, Sinnar and Yeola tahsils. Surgana, Kalwan, Deola, Nandgoan, Peint, Triembak and Igatpuri tahsil have recorded the lowest economic development. In comparison to other regions, Thus, physical features like topography, soil, rainfall, forest cover and manmade features like concentration of tribal population, percentage working population, crop and irrigation intensity were affected by uneven economic development in this study region. The present paper gave the geographical analysis of economic development in Nashik district during the period of 2021-22.
A Review on Benzothiazole Derivatives and Their Biological Significances
Authors: Mahapatra Rima , Hazra Kuntal
Published: February 2023

Benzothiazole is a molecule that has a wide range of pharmacological activities. The addition of a fluorine atom into the structure of benzothiazole enhances the various activities of the drug as the alteration of hydrogen or oxygen atom from a carbon bond by a fluorine atom improves desirable pharmacological properties such as greater biological half-life, higher ability to bind with the targeted receptor, and also enhances the lipophilic character of the drug. The special property that makes fluorine a very important molecule in the drug discovery includes a very small radius of the fluorine atom, a higher attacking power towards electrons, and a very low polarizability of the fluorine atom. Literature reveals that strong electron-attacking groups like fluorine in the structure of benzothiazole can exhibit anticancer activity of the drug, benzothiazole with Sulphonamide or with beta-lactam ring enhances the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Benzothiazole with oxadiazole shows potent anthelmintic activity [1-5].
Characteristics of Prior Authorization Policies for New Drugs in Medicare Part D
Authors: Naci Huseyin , Forrest Robin , Zhai Mike , Stofesky Amanda R. , Kesselheim Aaron S.
Published: February 2023

This cross-sectional study examines the characteristics of prior authorization policies for new drugs in Medicare Part D to understand whether they are consistent with US Food and Drug Administration indications.
Association of Long-term Exposure to Particulate Air Pollution With Cardiovascular Events in California
Authors: Alexeeff Stacey E. , Deosaransingh Kamala , Van Den Eeden Stephen , Schwartz Joel , Liao Noelle S. , Sidney Stephen
Published: February 2023

Importance

Long-term exposure to fine particulate air pollution (PM2.5) is a known risk factor for cardiovascular events, but controversy remains as to whether the current National Ambient Air Quality Standard (12 μg/m3 for 1-year mean PM2.5) is sufficiently protective.

Objective

To evaluate the associations between long-term fine particulate air pollution and cardiovascular events using electronic health record and geocoded address data.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study included adults in the Kaiser Permanente Northern California integrated health care system during 2007 to 2016 and followed for up to 10 years. Study participants had no prior stroke or acute myocardial infarction (AMI), and lived in Northern California for at least 1 year. Analyses were conducted January 2020 to December 2022.

Exposure

Long-term exposure to PM2.5. Individual-level time-varying 1-year mean PM2.5 exposures for every study participant were updated monthly from baseline through the end of follow-up, accounting for address changes.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Incident AMI, ischemic heart disease (IHD) mortality, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Cox proportional hazards models were fit with age as time scale, adjusted for sex, race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, smoking, body mass index, baseline comorbidities, and baseline medication use. Associations below the current regulation limit were also examined.

Results

The study cohort included 3.7 million adults (mean [SD] age: 41.1 [17.2] years; 1 992 058 [52.5%] female, 20 205 [0.5%] American Indian or Alaskan Native, 714 043 [18.8%] Asian, 287 980 [7.6%] Black, 696 796 [18.4%] Hispanic, 174 261 [4.6%] multiracial, 1 904 793 [50.2%] White). There was a 12% (95% CI, 7%-18%) increased risk of incident AMI, a 21% (95% CI, 13%-30%) increased risk of IHD mortality, and an 8% (95% CI, 3%-13%) increased risk of CVD mortality associated with a 10 μg/m3 increase in 1-year mean PM2.5. PM2.5 exposure at moderate concentrations (10.0 to 11.9 μg/m3) was associated with increased risks of incident AMI (6% [95% CI, 3%-10%]) and IHD mortality (7% [95% CI, 2%-12%]) compared with low concentrations (less than 8 μg/m3).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this study, long-term PM2.5 exposure at moderate concentrations was associated with increased risks of incident AMI, IHD mortality, and CVD mortality. This study’s findings add to the evidence that the current regulatory standard is not sufficiently protective.
Cell‐free chromatin immunoprecipitation can determine tumor gene expression in lung cancer patients
Authors: Trier Maansson Christoffer , Meldgaard Peter , Stougaard Magnus , Nielsen Anders Lade , Sorensen Boe Sandahl
Published: February 2023

Cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) in blood plasma can be bound to nucleosomes that contain post‐translational modifications representing the epigenetic profile of the cell of origin. This includes histone H3 lysine 36 trimethylation (H3K36me3), a marker of active transcription. We hypothesised that cell‐free chromatin immunoprecipitation (cfChIP) of H3K36me3‐modified nucleosomes present in blood plasma can delineate tumour gene expression levels. H3K36me3 cfChIP followed by targeted NGS (cfChIP‐seq) was performed on blood plasma samples from non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients (NSCLC, n = 8), small‐cell lung cancer (SCLC) patients (SCLC, n = 4) and healthy controls (n = 4). H3K36me3 cfChIP‐seq demonstrated increased enrichment of mutated alleles compared with normal alleles in plasma from patients with known somatic cancer mutations. Additionally, genes identified to be differentially expressed in SCLC and NSCLC tumours had concordant H3K36me3 cfChIP enrichment profiles in NSCLC (sensitivity = 0.80) and SCLC blood plasma (sensitivity = 0.86). Findings here expand the utility of cfDNA in liquid biopsies to characterise treatment resistance, cancer subtyping and disease progression.
A two‐step treatment planning strategy incorporating knowledge‐based planning for head‐and‐neck radiotherapy
Authors: Liu Han , Sintay Benjamin , Wiant David
Published: February 2023

Purpose

There has been much research interest in automated head‐and‐neck (HN) planning with the goal of reducing planning time and inter‐planner variability while improving plan quality. However, clinical uses are still limited and institution‐dependent due to the plan complexity. This work aims to investigate whether the use of a novel semi‐automated two‐step optimization method (TSP) can improve the quality and efficiency of planning while providing a simple framework that other institutions can follow.

Methods and materials

Forty patients (two and three prescription isodose levels) were retrospectively studied. Plans were generated by TSP which incorporates a knowledge‐based planning solution. Comparisons were performed for plan conformity and selected dose‐volume indices between clinical plan (CP) and TSP. Blind reviews were carried out by 15 clinicians to determine preference between the CP and TSP, as well as clinical suitability.

Results

For majority of patients studied, TSP had similar or slightly better conformity for the high‐dose PTV, and better conformity for the low‐dose PTV and 45 Gy isodose lines compared to CP. The only statistically significant difference observed for the serial organs was a reduction of the spinal cord maximum dose with TSP. Except for left parotid gland (Dmean and V30 for both 2R× and 3R× groups) and oral cavity (Dmean for 3R× group), TSP had significant dose reductions for all parallel organs compared to CP. Blind reviewers either showed preference/no preference for 57.2%/21.7% (2R×) and 57.5%/27.8% (3R×) of TSP compared with CP. Excluding no preference votes, 60% of TSP were preferred. TSP was selected majority of the time when looking at the vote distribution for each patient individually.

Conclusion

Our TSP allows plans to be created within 90‐min time frame while offering improvements in plan quality and less inter‐planner variability as compared to traditional planning techniques.
NAMA comments on Part 8 NPRM to revise methadone treatment regulations
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2023

In December, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) released a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would make permanent the take‐home exemptions for methadone under which, due to COVID‐19, it was possible for “less stable” patients to receive more take‐homes (https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.33643). In addition, the proposal would remove the one‐year requirement for opioid use disorder (OUD), remove the reliance on toxicology tests and the length of time in treatment, and allow telehealth inductions by methadone.
Facing another leadership transition, Caron leverages its succession plan
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: February 2023

In a span of less than two years, addiction treatment titan Caron Treatment Centers has seen the resignation of both its longtime CEO and, more recently, the young leader chosen as his successor. This extent of turnover at the highest level would likely cause many organizations to teeter, but at Caron, it simply triggered more planned steps in a leadership development process that has been years in the making.
Tailoring the Interfacial Electric Field Using Silicon Nanoparticles for Stable Zinc‐ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Haiyang , Yan Wen , Xing Yimin , Li Lin , Liu Jiayi , Li Li , Huang Peng , Lai Chao , Wang Chao , Chen Weihua , Chou Shulei
Published: February 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are among the most promising next‐generation energy storage systems due to their high level of safety, environmental friendliness, and low cost. However, the dendritic growth of Zn deposition leads to low Coulombic efficiency and severe capacity degradation, which limits their large‐scale application. In this study, silicon nanoparticles are used as electrolyte additives which can regulate the uniform electrodeposition of Zn by the formation of SiOZn bonds. Theoretical calculations and experimental investigations demonstrate that the silicon layer regulates the interfacial charge distribution, resulting in a lower nucleation energy barrier for the Zn anode. Consequently, Zn|Zn symmetric cells with nano‐Si electrolyte additives achieve remarkable cycling stability for 1250 cycles at 5 mA cm−2. When coupled with NaV3O8 cathodes, the resulting ZIBs deliver a high reversible capacity of 250 mAh g−1 and significantly improved capacity retention after long‐term cycles.
Quinoxaline‐Based X‐Shaped Sensitizers as Self‐Assembled Monolayer for Tin Perovskite Solar cells
Authors: Afraj Shakil N. , Kuan Chun‐Hsiao , Lin Jian‐Sing , Ni Jen‐Shyang , Velusamy Arulmozhi , Chen Ming‐Chou , Diau Eric Wei‐Guang
Published: February 2023

Four X‐shaped quinoxaline‐based organic dyes, PQx (1), TQx, (2), PQxD (3), and TQxD (4) (D = dye sensitizers) are developed and served as p‐type self‐assemble monolayer (SAM) for tin perovskite solar cells (TPSC). Thermal, optical, and electrochemical properties of these SAMs are thoroughly investigated and characterized. Tin perovskite layers are successfully deposited on these four SAM surfaces according to a two‐step approach and the devices exhibit power conversion efficiency in the order of TQxD (8.3%) > TQx (8.0%) > PQxD (7.1%) > PQx (6.1%). With thiophene π‐extended conjugation unit in SAM structure, TQxD (4) exhibits the highest hole extraction rates, greatest hole mobilities, and slowest charge recombination to achieve great device performance of 8.3%, which is the current best result for SAM‐based TPSC ever reported. Furthermore, all devices except PQx shows great enduring stability for the performance retaining ≈90% of their original values for shelf storage over 1600 h.
Achieving Stable Zinc Metal Anode Via Polyaniline Interface Regulation of Zn Ion Flux and Desolvation
Authors: Li Bin , Liu Shude , Geng Yifei , Mao Caiwang , Dai Lei , Wang Ling , Jun Seong Chan , Lu Bingan , He Zhangxing , Zhou Jiang
Published: February 2023

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries feature high safety, low cost, and relatively high energy density; however, their cycle life is hindered by severe Zn dendrite formation and water‐induced parasitic reactions. Herein, a porous polyaniline (PANI) interfacial layer is developed on the surface of Zn metal anode to regulate the transport and deposition of Zn2+, achieving an ultra‐stable and highly reversible Zn anode. Specifically, the abundant polar groups (NH and N) in PANI have a strong attraction to H2O, which can trap and immobilize H2O molecules around Zn2+. Moreover, the protective layer regulates ion flux and deposition behavior of Zn2+ through the ion confinement effect. Consequently, the Zn@PANI anode exhibits improved reversible plating/stripping behavior with a low nucleation overpotential (37.9 mV) at 2.0 mA cm‐2 compared to that of bare Zn anode. The MnO2//Zn@PANI cell demonstrates a high capacity retention of 94.3% after 1000 cycles at 1.0 A g−1. This study lays the foundation for accessible interface engineering and in‐depth mechanistic analysis of Zn anode.
Modulating Trinary‐Heterostructure of MoS2 via Controllably Carbon Doping for Enhanced Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Gao Bo , Zhao Yiwei , Du Xiaoye , Qian Dan , Ding Shujiang , Xiao Chunhui , Wang Jin , Song Zhongxiao , Jang Ho Won
Published: February 2023

Understanding the phase transitions process of 2D transition metal dichalcogenides (2D‐TMDs) from semiconducting (2H) to metallic (1T, 1T′) phase provides directionality for the iteration of hydrogen evolution catalysis. So far, the phase engineering methods are intensively explored, serving as practical tools for discovering low‐cost novel nanomaterials for electronic and electrode devices in the realm of energy storage and catalysis. However, the heterostructures between 2H/1T, 2H/1T′, or 1T/1T′, functionalizing as critical active sites in the electrocatalytic process, are overlooked. Herein, a facile carbon doping paradigms, enabling augmentation of MoS2 phase transition, together with density functional theory calculations and rationales to explain the counterintuitive directionality of transitions is reported. The experiment and simulation results indicate that the existence of carbon as interstitial atoms is more favorable to the phase transition than the substitution atoms. The heterogeneous interfaces between 2H and 1T or 1T′ are more conducive to charge transfer. As expected, the trinary‐heterostructure nanofilm displays excellent electrocatalytic activities both in micro‐electrochemical measurements and conventional electrolytic cells. The results provide a fresh insight into the 2D‐TMDs phase transition mechanism and guide for trinary‐heterostructure electrocatalysts for scalable production.
Effects of Halogenation of Small‐Molecule and Polymeric Acceptors for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Yu Han , Wang Yan , Zou Xinhui , Han Han , Kim Ha Kyung , Yao Zefan , Wang Zhibo , Li Yuhao , Ng Ho Ming , Zhou Wentao , Zhang Jianquan , Chen Shangshang , Lu Xinhui , Wong Kam Sing , Zhu Zonglong , Yan He , Hu Huawei
Published: February 2023

Tuning the properties of non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) through halogenation, including fluorination and chlorination, represents one of the most promising strategies to boost the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, it remains unclear how the F and Cl choice influences the molecular packing and performance between small‐molecule and polymeric acceptors. Here, a series of small‐molecule and polymeric acceptors with different amounts and types of halogenation is synthesized, and the effects of fluorination and chlorination between small‐molecule and polymeric acceptors are investigated. It is found that chlorinated small‐molecule acceptors lead to longer exciton diffusion length and better performance compared to the corresponding fluorinated ones, which attributes to their stronger intermolecular packing mode. For polymer acceptors, in contrast, the fluorinated polymers achieve a denser packing mode and better performance, because chlorinated polymers exhibit reduced intrachain conjugation between end group moieties and linker units. This study demonstrates different halogenation effects on the packing modes and performances for small‐molecule and polymeric acceptors, which provides important guidance for the molecule design of high‐performance acceptors for OSCs.
Precision Hydrogels for the Study of Cancer Cell Mechanobiology
Authors: Sievers Jana , Mahajan Vaibhav , Welzel Petra B. , Werner Carsten , Taubenberger Anna
Published: February 2023

Cancer progression is associated with extensive remodeling of the tumor microenvironment (TME), resulting in alterations of biochemical and biophysical cues that affect both cancer and stromal cells. In particular, the mechanical characteristics of the TME extracellular matrix undergo significant changes. Bioengineered polymer hydrogels can be instrumental to systematically explore how mechanically changed microenvironments impact cancer cell behavior, including proliferation, survival, drug resistance, and invasion. This article reviews studies that have explored the impact of different mechanical cues of the cells’ 3D microenvironment on cancer cell behavior using hydrogel‐based in vitro models. In particular, advanced engineering strategies are highlighted for tailored hydrogel matrices recapitulating the TME's micrometer‐ and sub‐micrometer‐scale architectural and mechanical features, while accounting for its intrinsically heterogenic and dynamic nature. It is anticipated that such precision hydrogel systems will further the understanding of cancer mechanobiology.
Circulatory Support: Artificial Muscles for the Future of Cardiovascular Assist Devices
Authors: Pirozzi Ileana , Kight Ali , Han Amy Kyungwon , Cutkosky Mark R. , Dual Seraina A.
Published: February 2023

Artificial muscles enable the design of soft implantable devices which are poised to transform the way we mechanically support the heart today. Heart failure is a prevalent and deadly disease, which is treated with the implantation of rotary blood pumps as the only alternative to heart transplantation. The clinically used mechanical devices are associated with severe adverse events, which are reflected here in a comprehensive list of critical requirements for soft active devices of the future: low power, no blood contact, pulsatile support, physiological responsiveness, high cycle life, and less‐invasive implantation. In this review, prior art in artificial muscles for their applicability in the short and long term is investigated and critically evaluated. The main challenges regarding the effectiveness, controllability, and implantability of recently proposed actuators are highlighted and the future perspectives for attachment, physiological responsiveness, durability, and biodegradability as well as equitable design considerations are explored.
Highly Active and Stable NiCuMo Electrocatalyst Supported on 304 Stainless Steel Porous Transport Layer for Hydrogen Evolution in Alkaline Water Electrolyzer
Authors: Zaffora Andrea , Di Franco Francesco , Pupillo Davide , Seminara Barbara , Tranchida Giada , Santamaria Monica
Published: February 2023

Several functionalized porous transport layers with Pt‐free electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution reaction in alkaline conditions, based on Ni, Cu, and Mo, are prepared through electrodeposition onto a 304 stainless steel mesh. Morphological characterization confirms the fabrication of electrodes with high electrochemical surface active area due to the formation of hierarchical nanostructures. Mo presence into the electrocatalysts increases the activity toward the hydrogen evolution reaction. The optimization of electrodeposition process leads to the preparation of highly active NiCuMo electrocatalyst that exhibits near zero onset overpotential and overpotentials of 15 and 113 mV at 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, in 1 m KOH electrolyte. Moreover, this electrocatalyst shows superior stability with respect to other Pt‐free electrocatalysts, reaching 100 h of durability with low overpotentials value demonstrating the successful preparation of very promising functionalized porous transport layers for future‐generation alkaline electrolyzers.
Three‐Dimensional Humanized Model of the Periodontal Gingival Pocket to Study Oral Microbiome
Authors: Adelfio Miryam , Martin‐Moldes Zaira , Erndt‐Marino Joshua , Tozzi Lorenzo , Duncan Margaret J. , Hasturk Hatice , Kaplan David L. , Ghezzi Chiara E.
Published: February 2023

The oral cavity contains distinct microenvironments that serve as oral barriers, such as the non‐shedding surface of the teeth (e.g., enamel), the epithelial mucosa and gingival tissue (attached gingiva) where microbial communities coexist. The interactions and balances between these communities are responsible for oral tissue homeostasis or dysbiosis, that ultimately dictate health or disease. Disruption of this equilibrium can lead to chronic inflammation and permanent tissue damage in the case of chronic periodontitis. There are currently no experimental tissue models able to mimic the structural, physical, and metabolic conditions present in the human oral gingival tissue to support the long‐term investigation of host–pathogens imbalances. Herein, the authors report an in vitro 3D anatomical gingival tissue model, fabricated from silk biopolymer by casting a replica mold of an adult human mandibular gingiva to recreate a tooth‐gum unit. The model is based on human primary cultures that recapitulate physiological tissue organization, as well as a native oxygen gradient within the gingival pocket to support human subgingival plaque microbiome with a physiologically relevant level of microbial diversity up to 24 h. The modulation of inflammatory markers in the presence of oral microbiome indicates the humanized functional response of this model and establishes a new set of tools to investigate host–pathogen imbalances in gingivitis and periodontal diseases.
Amorphous K‐Buserite Microspheres for High‐Performance Aqueous Zn‐Ion Batteries and Hybrid Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Zhi‐Qiang , Chen Hong‐Ming , Liu Xiao‐Dong , Song Li‐Ying , Zhang Bu‐Sheng , Yang Yun‐Guo , Zhang Zhao‐Cheng , Li Qian , Gao Tian‐Qi , Bai Jing , Lau Woon‐Ming , Zhou Dan
Published: February 2023

Aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs) and Zn‐ion hybrid supercapacitors (AZHSCs) are considered promising energy‐storage alternatives to Li‐ion batteries due to the attractive merits of low‐price and high‐safety. However, the lack of suitable cathode materials always hinders their large‐scale application. Herein, amorphous K‐buserite microspheres (denoted as K‐MnOx) are reported as cathode materials for both AZIBs and AZHSCs, and the energy‐storage mechanism is systematically revealed. It is found that K‐MnOx is composed of rich amorphous K‐buserite units, which can irreversibly be transformed into amorphous Zn‐buserite units in the first discharge cycle. Innovatively, the transformed Zn‐buserite acts as active materials in the following cycles and is highly active/stable for fast Zn‐diffusion and superhigh pseudocapacitance, enabling the achievement of high‐efficiency energy storage. In the AZIBs, K‐MnOx delivers 306 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.1 A g−1 with 102% capacity retention, while in the AZHSCs, it shows 515.0/116.0 F g−1 at 0.15/20.0 A g−1 with 92.9% capacitance retention at 5.0 A g−1 after 20 000 cycles. Besides, the power/energy density of AZHSCs device can reach up to 16.94 kW kg−1 (at 20 A g−1)/206.7 Wh kg−1 (at 0.15 A g−1). This work may provide some references for designing next‐generation aqueous energy‐storage devices with high energy/power density.
Synthesis of Linear Black Gold Nanostructures Processable as Sunlight and Low‐Energy Light Collecting Films for Photo‐Thermoelectricity
Authors: Kim Jeong Han , Pyun Seung Beom , Choi Min Ju , Yeon Ji Won , Hwang Young Ji , Cho Eun Chul
Published: February 2023

As one of the effort to cope with the energy crisis and carbon neutrality, utilization of low‐grade energy generated indoors (e.g., light) is imperative because this saves building and house energy, which accounts for ≈40% of total energy consumption. Although photovoltaic devices could contribute to energy savings, it is also necessary to harvest heat from indoor lights to generate electricity because the light absorbed by materials is mostly transformed into heat. For daily life uses, materials should not only have high absorptance and low emittance but also be easily processed into various forms. To this end, this work synthesizes black aqueous suspensions containing winding and bent linear gold nanostructures with diameters of 3–5 nm and length‐to‐diameter ratios of ≈4–10. Their optical and photo‐thermal characteristics are understood through experimental and theoretical investigations. Black gold nanostructures are conveniently processed into metal‐dielectric films on metal, glass, and flexible substrates. The film on copper has an absorptance of 0.97 and an emittance of 0.08. Under simulated sunlight and indoor LED light illumination, the film has equivalent photo‐thermal and photo‐thermoelectric performances to a top‐tier sunlight‐collecting film. This work attempts to modify the film structure to generate more usable electricity from low‐energy indoor light.
Ultrathin, Soft, Bioresorbable Organic Electrochemical Transistors for Transient Spatiotemporal Mapping of Brain Activity
Authors: Wu Mengge , Yao Kuanming , Huang Ningge , Li Hu , Zhou Jingkun , Shi Rui , Li Jiyu , Huang Xingcan , Li Jian , Jia Huiling , Gao Zhan , Wong Tsz Hung , Li Dengfeng , Hou Sihui , Liu Yiming , Zhang Shiming , Song Enming , Yu Junsheng , Yu Xinge
Published: February 2023

A critical challenge lies in the development of the next‐generation neural interface, in mechanically tissue‐compatible fashion, that offer accurate, transient recording electrophysiological (EP) information and autonomous degradation after stable operation. Here, an ultrathin, lightweight, soft and multichannel neural interface is presented based on organic‐electrochemical‐transistor‐(OECT)‐based network, with capabilities of continuous high‐fidelity mapping of neural signals and biosafety active degrading after performing functions. Such platform yields a high spatiotemporal resolution of 1.42 ms and 20 µm, with signal‐to‐noise ratio up to ≈37 dB. The implantable OECT arrays can well establish stable functional neural interfaces, designed as fully biodegradable electronic platforms in vivo. Demonstrated applications of such OECT implants include real‐time monitoring of electrical activities from the cortical surface of rats under various conditions (e.g., narcosis, epileptic seizure, and electric stimuli) and electrocorticography mapping from 100 channels. This technology offers general applicability in neural interfaces, with great potential utility in treatment/diagnosis of neurological disorders.
Reflections on an ADR Life: CPR Founder James Henry's Memorial
Authors: Bleemer Russ
Published: February 2023

A Nov. 13 Celebration of Life for CPR founder James F. Henry provided a public set of remembrances of his remarkable life and his career, which revolutionized commercial conflict resolution.
Focusing on the Neutral's Role in Setting Up Americans with Disabilities Act Mediation
Authors: Cohen Judy , Braun Joan , Frost Lynda , Wood Erica F.
Published: February 2023

Last month, the authors introduced the foundational basis of the capacity to mediate and how it affects the process. See “ADA Mediation, Updated: Revisiting 30 Years of Disabilities Practice,” 41 Alternatives 19 (February 2023) (available at bit.ly/3jTICQE), which contains sidebars on methodology, the series lineup, and resources. After four mini‐chapters last month, this article views capacity issues through a case study, the application of the Model Standards of Conduct for Mediators, and some of the factors that limit a participant's ability to mediate.
Pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease: Involvement of the choroid plexus
Authors: Čarna Maria , Onyango Isaac G. , Katina Stanislav , Holub Dušan , Novotny Jan Sebastian , Nezvedova Marketa , Jha Durga , Nedelska Zuzana , Lacovich Valentina , Vyvere Thijs Vande , Houbrechts Ruben , Garcia‐Mansfield Krystine , Sharma Ritin , David‐Dirgo Victoria , Vyhnalek Martin , Texlova Kateřina , Chaves Hernan , Bakkar Nadine , Pertierra Lucia , Vinkler Mojmir , Markova Hana , Laczo Jan , Sheardova Kateřina , Hortova‐Kohoutkova Marcela , Frič Jan , Forte Giancarlo , Kaňovsky Petr , Belaškova Silvie , Damborsky Jiři , Hort Jakub , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Bowser Robert , Sevlever Gustavo , Rissman Robert A. , Smith Richard A. , Hajduch Marian , Pirrotte Patrick , Spacil Zdenek , Dammer Eric B. , Limbäck‐Stokin Clara , Stokin Gorazd B.
Published: February 2023

The choroid plexus (ChP) produces and is bathed in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD) shows extensive proteomic alterations including evidence of inflammation. Considering inflammation hampers functions of the involved tissues, the CSF abnormalities reported in these conditions are suggestive of ChP injury. Indeed, several studies document ChP damage in aging and AD, which nevertheless remains to be systematically characterized. We here report that the changes elicited in the CSF by AD are consistent with a perturbed aging process and accompanied by aberrant accumulation of inflammatory signals and metabolically active proteins in the ChP. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) imaging shows that these molecular aberrancies correspond to significant remodeling of ChP in AD, which correlates with aging and cognitive decline. Collectively, our preliminary post‐mortem and in vivo findings reveal a repertoire of ChP pathologies indicative of its dysfunction and involvement in the pathogenesis of AD.

Highlights

Cerebrospinal fluid changes associated with aging are perturbed in Alzheimer's disease

Paradoxically, in Alzheimer's disease, the choroid plexus exhibits increased cytokine levels without evidence of inflammatory activation or infiltrates

In Alzheimer's disease, increased choroid plexus volumes correlate with age and cognitive performance
Divergent Asymmetric Total Synthesis of (−)‐Voacafricines A and B
Authors: Andres Rémi , Wang Qian , Zhu Jieping
Published: February 2023

A divergent asymmetric total synthesis of voacafricines A and B, hexacyclic monoterpene indole alkaloids, has been accomplished featuring the following key steps: a) a catalyst‐controlled asymmetric Pictet–Spengler reaction of 6‐methoxytryptamine with a chiral α‐ketoester affording a 1,1‐disubstituted tetrahydro‐β‐carboline in excellent yield and diastereoselectivity; b) oxidative cleavage of a 3,5‐disubstituted cyclopentene furnishing a dialdehyde intermediate, which was effectively differentiated through spontaneous cyclization with the neighboring hydroxy and secondary amine functions; c) intramolecular nucleophilic addition of a tertiary amino nitrogen atom to the in situ generated oxonium species generating stereoselectively an unprecedented 8‐alkyl octahydro‐2H‐5,8‐methanofuro[2,3‐b]azepin‐8‐ium motif bearing five contiguous stereocenters. The synthesis confirmed the absolute configuration of these two natural products.
GTN057, a komaroviquinone derivative, induced myeloma cells' death in vivo and inhibited c‐MET tyrosine kinase
Authors: Okayama Mikio , Fujimori Kota , Sato Mariko , Samata Koichi , Kurita Koki , Sugiyama Hiromu , Suto Yutaka , Iwasaki Genji , Yamada Taketo , Kiuchi Fumiyuki , Ichikawa Daiju , Matsushita Maiko , Hirao Maki , Kunieda Hisako , Yamazaki Kohei , Hattori Yutaka
Published: February 2023

Objective

Despite the development of newly developed drugs, most multiple myeloma (MM) patients with high‐risk cytogenetic abnormalities such as t(4;14) or del17p relapse at anin early stage of their clinical course. We previously reported that a natural product,komaroviquinone (KQN), isolated from the perennial semi‐shrub Dracocephalum komarovi, i.e., komaroviquinone (KQN) and its derivative GTN024 induced the apoptosis of MM cells by producing reactive oxygen species (ROS), but both exhibited significant hematological toxicity. Aim of this study is to clarify anti‐tumor activity, safety and pharmacokinetics of GTN057, an optimization compound of KQN in vivo.

Methods

ICR/SCID xenograft model of KMS11, a t(4;14) translocation‐positive MM cell line, was used for in vivo study. Mice pharmacokinetics of GTN057 and the degradation products were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS.

Results

Herein, our in vitro experiments revealed that GTN057 is much less toxic to normal hematopoietic cells, induced the apoptosis of both MM cell lines andpatient samples, including those with high‐risk cytogenetic changes. A xenograft model of a high‐risk MM cell line demonstrated that GTN057 significantly delayed the tumor growth with no apparent hematological or systemic toxicities in vivo. The pathological examination of GTN057‐treated tumors in vivoshowed revealed apoptosis of MM cells and anti‐angiogenesis. In addition to the production of ROS, GTN057 inhibited the downstream signaling of c‐MET, a receptor tyrosine kinase a receptor forand hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) receptor. Thus, GTN057 is less toxic and is able tomay be a candidate drug for treating MM patients, via multifunctional mechanisms. We have also extensively studied the pharmacologyical analysis of GTN057. The metabolites of GTN057, (e.g.,such as GTN054), may also have anti‐tumorantitumor activity.

Conclusion

Natural products or and their derivatives can could be good sources of antineoplastic drugs even for high‐risk cancer.
Hovenianin A Alleviates Hepatic Fibrosis by Inhibiting the PI3K/AKT Pathway in TGF‐β1‐Induced HSCs Based on Network Pharmacology and Transcriptomic Analysis
Authors: Kuang Xiaolan , Ma Ting , Cai Wanna , Yang Jianzhan , Sun Biao , Zhang Xiaoqi , Liu Bo , Wang Sumei , Xu Fangfang
Published: February 2023

Hepatic fibrosis is a global health problem, which currently has no FDA approved antifibrotic therapy yet. This study aimed to explore the mechanism of Hovenia genus in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis by an integrative strategy combining network pharmacology analysis, molecular docking, transcriptomics and experimental validation. The traditional Chinese medicine systems pharmacology (TCMSP) database and literatures were used to collect the components of Hovenia genus. Public databases including GeneCards, TTD, PharmGkb were used to acquire the putative targets. The GO and KEGG analysis were applied to explore the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, The TGF‐β1 induced hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) model were performed to evaluate the anti‐hepatic fibrosis activity of Hovenia genus. The RT‐qPCR, Western blotting and flow cytometry experiments were used to validate the anti‐hepatic fibrosis mechanisms of Hovenianin A. The KEGG analysis of network pharmacology and transcriptomics revealed that the core targets mainly enriched in PI3K‐Akt signaling pathways. The cell screening results indicated flavonoids were the main active ingredients of Hovenia. Hovenianin A, a bioactive bisflavonol, was validated to promote the apoptosis of HSCs by inhibiting PI3K‐Akt pathway. Molecular docking further corroborated the binding sites between Hovenianin A and AKT1. In summary, Hovenia may have therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis by modulating the PI3K‐Akt apoptosis pathway. Our findings may facilitate the development of Hovenia genus, which could help to treat liver fibrosis in the future.
School meals to have less sugar and sodium, more whole wheat
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: February 2023

In February, the USDA announced plans to upgrade the school meals children receive. Through major initiatives in the school meals program, the USDA is setting higher standards.
Spontaneous splenic pseudocyst: Case report of a rare entity
Authors: Tiwari Govinda Prasad , Poudel Ramchandra , Nepal Sabin , Dhakal Sushil
Published: February 2023

Splenic cysts are classified on the basis of epithelial lining, either primary or secondary. Primary cysts are further divided as parasitic and nonparasitic. The secondary cysts are usually post traumatic or after a splenic extension of pancreatic pseudocyst. However, not all pseudocysts are associated with trauma. Mostly, they are asymptomatic (30%–60%) and usually grow in size to cause compressive symptoms. Splenic pseudocysts should be differentiated with other malignant and nonmalignant pathology, specifically hydatid cysts, in order to manage them correctly. The walls of pseudocysts may be degenerative or calcified, which may resemble hydatid cysts. Here, we present a case of a non‐traumatic splenic cyst masquerading as a hydatid cyst preoperatively. The patient was taken up for surgery and intraoperatively noted to be a hemorrhagic cyst with a non‐splenic cyst wall. We decided to preserve the spleen with marsupialisation of cyst and omentoplasty. On histopathology, the diagnosis of a pseudocyst of spleen was made in view of absent epithelial lining. We would like to report this case because of the diagnostic dilemma, its clinical rarity and, even more, in the absence of any history of trauma.
Progress and perspective of single‐atom catalysts for membrane electrode assembly of fuel cells
Authors: Song Zhongxin , Li Junjie , Zhang Qianling , Li Yongliang , Ren Xiangzhong , Zhang Lei , Sun Xueliang
Published: February 2023

A fuel cell is an energy conversion device that can continuously input fuel and oxidant into the device through an electrochemical reaction to release electrical energy. Although noble metals show good activity in fuel cell‐related electrochemical reactions, their ever‐increasing price considerably hinders their industrial application. Improvement of atom utilization efficiency is considered one of the most effective strategies to improve the mass activity of catalysts, and this allows for the use of fewer catalysts, saving greatly on the cost. Thus, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) with an atom utilization efficiency of 100% have been widely developed, which show remarkable performance in fuel cells. In this review, we will describe recent progress on the development of SACs for membrane electrode assembly of fuel cell applications. First, we will introduce several effective routes for the synthesis of SACs. The reaction mechanism of the involved reactions will also be introduced as it is highly determinant of the final activity. Then, we will systematically summarize the application of Pt group metal (PGM) and nonprecious group metal (non‐PGM) catalysts in membrane electrode assembly of fuel cells. This review will offer numerous experiences for developing potential industrialized fuel cell catalysts in the future.
Fast capture and stabilization of Li‐ions via physicochemical dual effects for an ultra‐stable self‐supporting Li metal anode
Authors: Zhang Xuzi , Li Yue , Zhang Hao , Li Ge
Published: February 2023

Lithium (Li) metal is regarded as one of the most promising anode candidates for next‐generation batteries due to its extremely high specific capacity and low redox potential. However, its application is still hindered by the uncontrolled growth of dendritic Li and huge volume fluctuation during cycles. To address these issues, flexible and self‐supporting three‐dimensional (3D) interlaced N‐doped carbon nanofibers (NCNFs) coated with uniformly distributed 2D ultrathin NiCo2S4 nanosheets (denoted CNCS) were designed to eliminate the intrinsic hotspots for Li deposition. Physicochemical dual effects of CNCS arise from limited surface Li diffusivity with a higher Li affinity, leading to uniform Li nucleation and less random accumulation of Li, as confirmed by ab initio molecular dynamics simulations. Due to the unique structure, exchange current density is reduced significantly and metallic Li is further contained within the interspace between the NCNF and NiCo2S4 nanosheets, preventing the formation of dendritic Li. The symmetric cell with a Li/CNCS composite anode shows a long‐running lifespan for almost 1200 h, with an exceptionally low and stable overpotential under 1 mA cm−2/1 mAh cm−2. A full cell coupled with a LiFePO4 cathode at a low N/P ratio of 2.45 shows typical voltage profiles but more significantly enhanced performance than that of a LiFePO4 cathode coupled with a bare Li anode.
Kinase Degraders, Activators, and Inhibitors: Highlights and Synthesis Routes to the Chemical Probes on opnMe.com, Part 1
Authors: Gollner Andreas , Heine Claudia , Hofbauer Karin S.
Published: February 2023

Kinases are among the most important and successful drug targets. Chemical probe compounds have played a critical role in elucidating the role of kinases in many biological pathways. There are currently twelve well‐validated chemical probes that target kinases available free‐of‐cost via the Molecules to Order (M2O) arm of Boehringer Ingelheim's open innovation platform, opnMe.com. Here we present a summary of the key data for each of these probe compounds and the synthesis routes to all twelve compounds. We hope this will aid researchers who use or plan to use these compounds in their research.
Thermal comfort and energy performance improvement by optimization of shading devices using improved Battle Royal algorithm
Authors: Hu Guiqiu , Hu Xiji , Pouramini Somayeh
Published: February 2023

China's building energy consumption accounts for 27.5% of China's total energy demand. This amount is increasing because of the considerable increase in the rate of household equipment mostly in air‐conditioning systems. In this study, the TRNSYS simulation tool and improved Battle Royal optimizer (IBRO) is coupled for energy optimization of the building based on the simulation to study the impact of the overhangs optimization. The thermal comfort enhancement is evaluated in three case studies of three different weather conditions in China. To validate the achieved results, a comparison of the optimum values with benchmark cases is performed with consideration of heating and cooling demands, and yearly discomfort percentage. According to the achievements, an improvement can be seen in the comfort level. Also, the cooling demand is decreased by 4.2% for Shanghai.
Chemoenzymatic Cascade Reaction for the Valorization of the Lignin Depolymerization Product G−C2‐Dioxolane Phenol
Authors: Terholsen Henrik , Meyer Jule R. H. , Zhang Zhenlei , Deuss Peter J. , Bornscheuer Uwe T.
Published: February 2023

Combining solid acid catalysts with enzyme reactions in aqueous environments is challenging because either very acidic conditions inactivate the enzymes, or the solid acid catalyst is neutralized. In this study, Amberlyst‐15 encapsulated in polydimethylsiloxane (Amb‐15@PDMS) is used to deprotect the lignin depolymerization product G−C2 dioxolane phenol in a buffered system at pH 6.0. This reaction is directly coupled with the biocatalytic reduction of the released homovanillin to homovanillyl alcohol by recombinant horse liver alcohol dehydrogenase, which is subsequently acylated by the promiscuous acyltransferase/hydrolase PestE_I208A_L209F_N288A in a one‐pot system. The deprotection catalyzed with Amb‐15@PDMS attains up to 97 % conversion. Overall, this cascade enables conversions of up to 57 %.