bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postvaccinal GABA‐B receptor antibody encephalitis after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccination
Authors: Ahn Seon‐Jae , Lee Soon‐Tae , Chu Kon
Published: September 2022

Several cases of autoimmune encephalitis have been reported after ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 (AZD1222) vaccination. We encountered a male patient who presented with generalized tonic‐clonic seizures, cognitive decline, and gait disturbance that occurred suddenly after the second dose of the ChAdOx1 nCoV‐19 vaccine. Clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) test results were compatible with limbic encephalitis. Synaptic autoantibody tests confirmed serum and CSF GABA B receptor antibodies were present. The patient was treated with immunotherapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and rituximab. This GABA‐B receptor antibody encephalitis case occurred presumably due to transient autoantibody production following vaccine administration.
Influence of Processing Route on the Fracture Resistance of Equal Channel Angular Pressing Deformed Iron
Authors: Hohenwarter Anton , Pippan Reinhard
Published: September 2022

The mechanical behavior of pure iron (Armco‐iron) deformed at 200 °C by equal angular channel pressing using processing route BC is investigated with a focus on the fracture properties. In particular, the fracture toughness in terms of elastic–plastic fracture mechanics is evaluated for different specimen orientations with respect to the last deformation step. In addition, the results are comprehensively compared with material processed by route A. The microstructural features of both deformation routes are presented and the underlying microstructure–property relationships are discussed. Both deformation routes (A and BC) lead to a comparable strength even though the microstructural features differ. Route A contains a banded and well‐aligned structure almost parallel to the extrusion direction. For route BC, the microstructural alignment is rotated with respect to the pre‐crack orientation and the grain structure is more heterogeneous. For both deformation routes, the crack plane orientation plays a significant role in the fracture characteristics. The fracture toughness along the extrusion direction, with substantially low fracture toughness for route A, is markedly enhanced for route BC. Consequently, route BC offers a pathway to obtaining severe plastic deformation (SPD) materials with high damage tolerance and a considerably lower extent of anisotropy.
A Nanoplasmonic Portable Molecular Interaction Platform for High‐Throughput Drug Screening
Authors: Fan Hongli , Huang Liping , Li Rui , Chen Mingqian , Huang Junjie , Xu Hao , Hu Wenjun , Liu Gang L.
Published: September 2022

A fast and reliable method for the detection of molecular interactions in real‐time is necessary for drug screening and control of infections or diseases. Therefore, this study aims to develop a high‐throughput portable nanoplasmonic platform. This is done by integrating a nanocup array‐enhanced surface plasmon resonance (NanoSPR) sensor with a standard 96‐well plate or a simple eight‐pillar device, which can offer rapid and label‐free interaction analysis and highly sensitive binding kinetics for drug screening. To fabricate the wafer‐level NanoSPR biosensor, nanoimprint lithography, electron beam evaporation, and bonding technology have been used to offer low‐cost production on a mass scale. Meanwhile, a variety of ready‐to‐use NanoSPR biosensors are separately modified to demonstrate the high‐quality binding kinetics and affinity of different biomolecular interactions. Owing to their unique optical properties, the two developed portable NanoSPR devices provide the possibility of having a portable benchtop molecular interaction instrument that is very promising for meeting the needs of personal and laboratory testing. This study may pave the way for NanoSPR biosensors to achieve high‐throughput and easy‐to‐use molecular interaction analysis with outstanding performance.
Inducing the Solid–Liquid Conversion of Zinc Metal Anode in Alkaline Electrolytes by a Complexing Agent
Authors: Wu Wanlong , Yang Xianpeng , Wang Kuo , Lin Zirui , Shi Hua‐Yu , Sun Xiaoqi
Published: September 2022

Primary alkaline aqueous batteries with Zn metal anodes have been commercialized and show great promise for secondary batteries. However, Zn undergoes a solid–liquid–solid reaction among Zn, Zn(OH)42−, and ZnO in alkaline electrolytes, and the insulating ZnO formed on the surface easily passivates Zn underneath. Herein, a complexing agent of Br− is added into the KOH electrolyte. Zn is oxidized to Zn–Br complexes instead of Zn(OH)42− during discharge, the former of which exhibits higher solubility. Therefore, Zn undergoes a solid–liquid reaction, and the passivation by ZnO is effectively avoided. Zn is reversibly deposited during charge to form a flat surface on the electrode. Thanks to the excellent kinetics and reversibility of the solid–liquid conversion process, the symmetric cell exhibits a polarization voltage of ≈8 mV at 1 mA cm−2 and only increases to 36 mV at 10 mA cm−2. The cycle life is extended to 900 h at 1 mA cm−2 and 0.5 mA h cm−2, which is 22× of the one in the KOH electrolyte. The KOH/KBr electrolyte is also applicable to a Zn||MnO2 battery, which delivers 92.5% capacity retention after 500 cycles. This study presents an effective strategy to uncover alternative reaction paths for zinc electrode in rechargeable batteries.
Bio‐Inspired Wrinkled Photonic Elastomer with Superior Controllable and Mechanically Stable Structure for Multi‐Mode Color Display
Authors: Lin Ruicheng , Qi Yong , Kou Donghui , Ma Wei , Zhang Shufen
Published: September 2022

Color is an excellent carrier of information between organisms. Photonic elastomers that convert abstract mechanical information into intuitive color information have shown great potential in various application fields. However, angular correlation of structural colors and monotonous color conversion mode affect the accuracy of material information reading and the applicability in diverse application scenarios. Here, inspired by a kind of bright blue spider‐ Poecilotheria metallica, a new wrinkled photonic elastomer structure is reported. Through wrinkling stretchable 1D photonic crystals (1DPCs), photonic elastomers with both one‐directional and omni‐directional angle‐independent brilliant structural colors are realized. It is worth noting that with the hybrid 1DPC and polydimethylsiloxane substrate support, the wrinkled photonic structure and structural color remain stable after 1000 strain cycles, and mechanochromic sensitivity can reach 3.25 nm/%, indicating strong structural stability and sensitive deformation performance under stress. More importantly, by comprehensively manipulating micro‐wrinkle structure and lattice spacing of the photonic films, the structural color can achieve delayed discoloration and invisible‐visible reversible switching performance only through a single strain direction. The proposed wrinkled photonic elastomers have a broad application value in the fields of visual strain sensing, wearable devices, and information encryption. Furthermore, it provides a new strategy for color regulation of photonic materials.
Active Manipulation of Functional Droplets on Slippery Surface
Authors: Han Keyu , Wang Zubin , Han Xiao , Wang Xuan , Guo Pu , Che Pengda , Heng Liping , Jiang Lei
Published: September 2022

Droplet manipulation has drawn enormous attention due to its important role in technological applications from energy and environment to human health. However, the facilely active manipulation of functional droplets on a nonresponsive slippery surface remains a great challenge. Here, triggered by external stimuli (light irradiation, electric field, and magnetic field), an active manipulation of functional droplets is reported, that is propelling the droplets on a nonresponsive slippery surface, without the need fosurface responsiveness. The driven forces are the asymmetrical forces induced by external stimuli. Moreover, the proof‐of‐concept experiments of the coalescence, micro reaction, anti‐gravity force manipulation, and screening of different droplets under external stimuli are demonstrated. All the results indicate that this work can offer a feasible strategy for actively manipulating droplets independent of surface responsiveness and facilitate the development of chemical detection, microfluidics, bioanalysis, and medicines.
Stabilizing Zn Anode Interface by Simultaneously Manipulating the Thermodynamics of Zn Nucleation and Overpotential of Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Wang Huibo , Li Heng , Tang Yuxin , Xu Zhu , Wang Kexuan , Li Qingyuan , He Bingchen , Liu Yi , Ge Mingzheng , Chen Shi , Hao Tianwei , Xing Guichuan , Zhang Yanyan
Published: September 2022

The uncontrollable dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution, and other side‐reactions, originating from the zinc anode, have severely restricted the practical application of aqueous zinc–ion batteries (ZIBs). To address these challenges, a stable solid‐electrolyte‐interface (SEI) layer is constructed through introducing sericin molecules as an electrolyte additive to modulate the Zn nucleation and overpotential of hydrogen evolution. This SEI layer increases the nucleation overpotential during Zn plating, leading to the finer‐grained, dense, and uniform Zn deposition. Meanwhile, the lower unoccupied molecular orbital molecules in SEI layer have a higher reduction potential than H2O, inhibiting hydrogen production, and subsequently suppressing the Zn dendritic and interfacial side‐reactions. Consequently, the Zn|Zn symmetric cells with sericin additives exhibit an extremely prolonged cycling lifetime of 4446 h compared with to bare Zn electrode of 53 h at 1.0 mA cm−2/1.0 mAh cm−2, and a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.29% under a high cumulative plated capacity of 1.0 Ah cm−2tested in Zn|Cu cells. Moreover, the assembled full cells using Na2V6O16·3H2O cathodes endure 2000 cycles with high capacity retention of 81.7% at 5.0 A g−1. This study sheds new light on modulating the process of Zn nucleation and overpotential of H2evolution for durable Zn anode design.
Chiral Hydrogel Accelerates Re‐Epithelization in Chronic Wounds via Mechanoregulation
Authors: Zhu Hanting , Xing Chao , Dou Xiaoqiu , Zhao Yu , Peng Yinbo , Feng Chuanliang , Fang Yong
Published: September 2022

Chronic wounds, such as diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), are a serious clinical problem. It is a challenge for the conventional wound dressings to achieve the desirable therapeutic efficacy due to the lack of biomimetic structural environment for rapid re‐epithelization. Inspired by the naturally existing chiral structures in skin, a novel amino acid‐based chiral hydrogel dressing is developed, consisting of left‐handed or right‐handed helical fibers self‐assembled by l/d–phenylalanine derivatives. Compared to the levorotatory chiral hydrogel (LH), the dextral chiral hydrogel (DH) shows the ability to enhance cell adhesion, proliferation, and migration, and strongly promotes diabetic wound healing and re‐epithelialization with a drug‐free mode. Interestingly, the dextral chiral hydrogel is able to actively increase adsorption of type I collagen and promote proliferation and migration of keratinocyte in an integrin and YAP‐mediated manner. This study not only provides a novel strategy for treatment of chronic wounds by utilizing dextral chiral hydrogel dressings, but also unveils the molecular mechanism for effect of dextral chiral structures on the promoted proliferation of keratinocyte.
Ghrelin Bridges DMV Neuropathology and GI Dysfunction in the Early Stages of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Liu Yizhen , Wang Weiwei , Song Ning , Jiao Lingling , Jia Fengju , Du Xixun , Chen Xi , Yan Chunling , Jiao Jianwei , Jiao Qian , Jiang Hong
Published: September 2022

Ghrelin contributes to the communication between the brain and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Both decreased ghrelin levels and functional GI disorders are early events in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and animal models. However, the reason is not clear. Here it is found that choline acetyltransferase (ChAT)‐positive neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV), are lost in PD transgenic mice. In response to the selective damaging of DMV neurons with mu p75‐SAP, a rapid reduction both in plasma total and active ghrelin levels is observed. While by contrast, chemogenetic activation of DMV cholinergic neurons can increase the plasma ghrelin levels. Impairment of cholinergic neurons is accompanied by GI disorders, including decreased stool wet weight, stool dry weight, small intestine advancing rate, and gastric emptying rate, while exogenous ghrelin treatment can partially ameliorate GI dysfunction of A53T α‐synuclein transgenic mice. Using pseudorabies virus retrograde trace method, the existence of a direct pathway from the stomach fundus to the DMV is shown. Taken together, the findings suggest that the reduction in plasma ghrelin levels in the early stages of PD may be the result of the lesion of cholinergic neurons in the DMV, thus linking neurodegeneration and GI dysfunction in PD.
Self‐Encapsulated Cu Grid for Highly Transparent Conductive Electrode for Transparent Heater and Electrochemical Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Raman Vivekanandan , Selvaraj Aravindha Raja , Kim Seong‐Won , Prabakar Kandasamy , Kim Han‐Ki
Published: September 2022

The conducting metallic grid is a prominent viable candidate for an alternative to indium tin oxide for optoelectronic devices. This metallic grid tends to oxidize quickly, and to avoid oxidization, a passivation layer must be added, which drastically compromises the transmittance. The fabrication of a highly flexible, highly transparent, and conductive copper grid electrode with an outstanding sheet resistance of 0.11 Ω □−1, and excellent transparency of 93.13% is reported. This copper electrode resists oxidization with the help of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS), and even after exposing the electrode to the ambient atmosphere, it shows excellent sheet resistance of 0.12 Ω □−1. This is achieved by the in situ formation of an oxidization‐resistive light‐absorbing PEDOT:PSS layer that encapsulates the Cu microparticles during electrodeposition. The electrode shows excellent mechanical stability with good electromagnetic interference shielding of 19 dB. Moreover, the electrode is developed as a thin film heater, and subjects to electrochemical analysis, which shows a specific capacitance of 81.58 mF cm−2 for supercapacitor application.
In Situ Visualizing the Interfacial Failure Mechanism and Modification Promotion of LAGP Solid Electrolyte toward Li Metal Anode
Authors: Cui Can , Zeng Cheng , Huang Guxin , Feng Xin , Zhang Yue , Zhai Tianyou , Li Huiqiao
Published: September 2022

In‐depth understanding the failure process of solid‐state electrolyte (SSE) and providing potential solutions are crucial for the development of solid‐state batteries (SSBs). Typical techniques are powerful to investigate the chemical/electrochemical degradation of SSE. While, mechanical failure, which would undoubtedly affect battery performance, is difficult to detect by normal techniques and lack effective characterizations. Herein, via in situ electrochemical SEM, the dynamic failure process of SSE is observed, revealing the continuously generated side‐reaction layer and the stress‐induced cracks are the main origins. C3N4 (CN) is introduced as the modification layer for Li and SSE. Via in situ scanning electron microscope, Li growth is regulated by CN from dendrite‐like to particulate‐like growth. The properties of electronic transportation and ionic migration in CN are quantitatively measured, and CN promotion mechanism is revealed. Thanks to CN layer, the interfacial side‐reaction is restrained, simultaneously, Li+ flux becomes well‐distributed for dense Li deposition, preventing stress‐induced mechanical failure in SSE. Li symmetrical batteries with CN can endure the maximum current density up to 2.0 mA cm−2 and stably cycle for 3000 h at 300 µA cm−2. This work suggests a promising method to circumvent SSE degradation against Li and open opportunities for future SSBs.
Do postoperative infectious complications really affect long‐term survival in colorectal cancer surgery? A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Matsuda Akihisa , Maruyama Hiroshi , Akagi Shinji , Inoue Toru , Uemura Kenichiro , Kobayashi Minako , Shiomi Hisanori , Watanabe Manabu , Arai Hiroki , Kojima Yutaka , Mizuuchi Yusuke , Yokomizo Hajime , Toiyama Yuji , Miyake Toru , Yokoyama Yasuyuki , Ishimaru Kei , Takeda Shigeru , Yaguchi Yoshihisa , Kitagawa Yuko
Published: September 2022

Aim

To investigate the impact of postoperative infection (PI), surgical site infection, and remote infection (RI), on long‐term outcomes in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

The Japan Society for Surgical Infection conducted a multicenter retrospective cohort study involving 1817 curative stage I/II/III CRC patients from April 2013 to March 2015. Patients were divided into the No‐PI group and the PI group. We examined the association between PI and oncological outcomes for cancer‐specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) using Cox proportional hazards models and propensity score matching.

Results

Two hundred and ninety‐nine patients (16.5%) had PIs. The 5‐year CSS and OS rates in the No‐PI and PI groups were 92.8% and 87.6%, and 87.4% and 83.8%, respectively. Both the Cox proportional hazards models and propensity score matching demonstrated a significantly worse prognosis in the PI group than that in the No‐PI group for CSS (hazard ratio: 1.60; 95% confidence interval: 1.10‐2.34; P = .015 and P = .031, respectively) but not for OS. RI and the PI severity were not associated with oncological outcomes. The presence of PI abolished the survival benefit of adjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusions

These results suggest that PI after curative CRC surgery is associated with impaired oncological outcomes. This survival disadvantage of PI was primarily derived from surgical site infection, not RI, and PI induced lower efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy. Strategies to prevent PI and implement appropriate postoperative treatment may improve the quality of care and oncological outcomes in patients undergoing curative CRC surgery.
Primates and pandemics: A biocultural approach to understanding disease transmission in human and nonhuman primates
Authors: Radhakrishna Sindhu
Published: September 2022

Investigations into zoonotic disease outbreaks have been largely epidemiological and microbiological, with the primary focus being one of disease control and management. Increasingly though, the human–animal interface has proven to be an important driver for the acquisition and transmission of pathogens in humans, and this requires syncretic bio‐socio‐cultural enquiries into the origins of disease emergence, for more efficacious interventions. A biocultural lens is imperative for the examination of primate‐related zoonoses, for the human‐primate interface is broad and multitudinous, involving both physical and indirect interactions that occur due to shared spaces and ecologies. I use the case example of a viral zoonotic epidemic that is currently endemic to India, the Kysanaur Forest Disease, to show how biocultural anthropology provides a broad and integrative perspective into infectious disease ecology and presents new insights into the determinants of disease outbreaks. Drawing on insights from epidemiology, political ecology, primate behavioral ecology and ethnoprimatology, this paper demonstrates how human‐primate interactions and shared ecologies impact infectious disease spread between human and nonhuman primate groups.
Pharmacological insights into Chukrasia velutina bark: Experimental and computer‐aided approaches
Authors: Jahan Israt , Sakib Shahenur Alam , Alam Najmul , Majumder Mohuya , Sharmin Sanjida , Reza A. S. M. Ali
Published: September 2022

Background

Chukrasia velutina is an enthnomedicinally used plant reported to have significant medicinal values. The present study aimed to explore the pharmacological activities of bark methanol extract using in vitro, in vivo and in silico models.

Methods

The study was designed to investigate the pharmacological effects of methanol extract of Chukrasia velutina bark (MECVB) through in vitro, in vivo and in silico assays. Analgesic activity was tested using formalin‐induced nociception and acetic acid‐induced writhing assays while the antipyretic effect was tested using yeast‐induced hyperthermia in mice model. The antioxidant effect was tested using the DPPH and reducing power assay and the cytotoxic screening was tested using the brine shrimp lethality bioassay. In addition, in silico studies were conducted using computer aided methods.

Results

In the acetic acid‐induced writhing assay, the extract showed 28.36% and 56.16% inhibition of writhing for doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg, respectively. Moreover, a dose‐dependent formalin‐induced licking response was observed in both early and late phase. In yeast‐induced pyrexia, the MECVB exhibited (p < 0.05) antipyretic effect. The extract demonstrated an IC50 value of 78.86 μg/ml compared with ascorbic acid (IC50 23.53 μg/ml) in the DPPH scavenging assay. The compounds sitosterol, 5,7‐dimethoxycoumarin and scopoletin were seen be effective in molecular docking scores against COX‐I (2OYE), COX‐II (6COX) and human peroxiredoxin 5 (1HD2). In ADME/T analysis, 5,7‐dimethoxycoumarin and scopoletin satisfied Lipinski's rule of five and thus are potential drug candidates.

Conclusion

The bark of Chukrasia velutina showed significant analgesic and antipyretic properties and is a potential source of natural anti‐oxidative agents.
Sequential Passivation for Lead‐Free Tin Perovskite Solar Cells with High Efficiency
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Kamarudin Muhammad Akmal , Baranwal Ajay Kumar , Kapil Gaurav , Sahamir Shahrir Razey , Sanehira Yoshitaka , Chen Mengmeng , Wang Liang , Shen Qing , Hayase Shuzi
Published: September 2022

Lead‐free tin perovskite solar cells (PKSCs) have attracted tremendous interest as a replacement for toxic lead‐based PKSCs. Nevertheless, the efficiency is significantly low due to the rough surface morphology and high number of defects, which are caused by the fast crystallization and easy oxidization. In this study, a facile and universal posttreatment strategy of sequential passivation with acetylacetone (ACAC) and ethylenediamine (EDA) is proposed. The results show that ACAC can reduce the trap density and enlarge the grain size (short‐circuit current (Jsc) enhancement), while EDA can bond the undercoordinated tin and regulate the energy level (open‐circuit voltage (Voc) enhancement). A promising 13 % efficiency is achieved with better stability. In addition, other combinations of diketones or amines are selected, with similar effects. This study provides a universal strategy to enhance the crystallinity and passivate defects while fabricating stable PKSCs with high efficiency.
Next Generation Opto‐Jasplakinolides Enable Local Remodeling of Actin Networks**
Authors: Küllmer Florian , Vepřek Nynke A. , Borowiak Malgorzata , Nasufović Veselin , Barutzki Sebastian , Thorn‐Seshold Oliver , Arndt Hans‐Dieter , Trauner Dirk
Published: September 2022

The natural product jasplakinolide is widely used to stabilize F‐actin. Based on extensive structure–activity relationship studies, we have developed a new generation of photoswitchable jasplakinolides that feature rationally designed red‐shifted azobenzene photoswitches. Our lead compound, nOJ, can be activated with longer wavelengths in the visible range (e.g. 440–475 nm) and rapidly returns to its inactive state through thermal relaxation. nOJ enables the reversible control of F‐actin dynamics, as shown through live‐cell imaging, cell migration, and cell proliferation assays. Short, local irradiation with blue light resulted in highly localized and reversible actin aggregation with subcellular precision. Our optical tool can be useful in diverse fields to study actin dynamics with excellent spatiotemporal resolution.
A Three‐Membered Diazo‐Aluminum Heterocycle to Access an Al=C π Bonding Species
Authors: Yan Chenting , Kinjo Rei
Published: September 2022

[1+2] cycloaddition between a cyclic (alkyl)(amino)aluminyl anion (3) and diaryldiazomethane affords an AlN2three‐membered ring species (4). Compound (4) is thermally unstable and spontaneously releases N2gas under the mild reaction condition to generate an ion‐separated species5. An X‐ray study shows that the anionic part of5bears a considerable short exocyclic Al−C bond, and computational studies involving molecular orbital and natural bond orbital analysis indicate the Al=C π bonding character. The Al=C moiety of5undergoes intramolecular C−H activation. Moreover, reaction of5with a diazo compound leads to the reduction and complete cleavage of the N=N double bond.
Sactipeptide Engineering by Probing the Substrate Tolerance of a Thioether‐Bond‐Forming Sactisynthase
Authors: Ali Ataurehman , Happel Dominic , Habermann Jan , Schoenfeld Katrin , Macarrón Palacios Arturo , Bitsch Sebastian , Englert Simon , Schneider Hendrik , Avrutina Olga , Fabritz Sebastian , Kolmar Harald
Published: September 2022

Sactipeptides are ribosomally synthesized peptides containing a unique sulfur to α‐carbon crosslink. Catalyzed by sactisynthases, this thioether pattern endows sactipeptides with enhanced structural, thermal, and proteolytic stability, which makes them attractive scaffolds for the development of novel biotherapeutics. Herein, we report the in‐depth study on the substrate tolerance of the sactisynthase AlbA to catalyze the formation of thioether bridges in sactipeptides. We identified a possible modification site within the sactipeptide subtilosin A allowing for peptide engineering without compromising formation of thioether bridges. A panel of natural and hybrid sactipeptides was produced to study the AlbA‐mediated formation of thioether bridges, which were identified mass‐spectrometrically. In a proof‐of‐principle study, we re‐engineered subtilosin A to a thioether‐bridged, specific streptavidin targeting peptide, opening the door for the functional engineering of sactipeptides.
Improved soy protein adhesives by lignin and polyamide‐epichlorohydrin: Adhesion performance and properties
Authors: Pradyawong Sarocha , Brown Nataniel H. , Zhao Jikai , Qi Guangyang , Zheng Yi , Sun Xiuzhi Susan , Wang Donghai
Published: September 2022

Protein modifications by crosslinkers have been known to be the most effective way to improve the bonding performance of plant‐based protein adhesives. However, utilizing a huge amount of chemical crosslinkers in wood industries rises a concern about product's sustainability and environmental pollution. Therefore, the objective of this study was to improve the water resistance of soy protein (SP) adhesives using renewable bio‐based lignin with minimal use of polyamide‐epichlorohydrin (PAE). The effects of lignin, PAE and combination of lignin‐PAE on SP adhesives were investigated. The results showed that the addition of lignin enhanced the thermal properties of SP adhesives with an increment in the denaturing temperature of 11S protein subunit, whereas PAE elevated the denaturing temperature of 7S protein subunit. Moreover, individual addition of either lignin or PAE increased the elastic modulus and wet adhesion performance of SP adhesives. The same trend was also observed on adhesion performance when both lignin and PAE were used in conjunction. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectra indicated interactions of lignin and PAE to carbonyl, hydroxyl, and amino groups of SP, which lead to a stronger SP network. SP adhesive (10%) modified by a combination of 1% lignin and 1% PAE improved wet adhesion strength by 111% (from 1.8 to 3.8 MPa) with no impact on the spreadability. Further addition of either lignin or PAE did not show a positive effect on the adhesion performance, but rather a decrease in adhesive spreadability due to excessive interactions among SP, lignin, and PAE as well as the interference of the excessive lignin/PAE.
Effect of fiber orientation on the fatigue crack initiation and propagation of glass fiber reinforced plastics
Authors: Sakai Michiya , Arakawa Jinta , Akebono Hiroyuki , Sugeta Atsushi , Ohshita Joji , Tanizawa Hiroki , Shimizu Katsunori , Ogawa Junichi
Published: September 2022

In recent years, glass‐fiber‐reinforced plastic (GFRP) applications have expanded. This study elucidates the fatigue fracture mechanism of GFRP with different fiber orientations and experimentally clarifies the relationship between fiber orientation and fracture mechanism by using specimens with unidirectional simple fiber orientations. First, Static tensile and fatigue tests are performed on two types of specimens with fibers oriented in a single direction (parallel to the load axis and orthogonal to the load axis), and it is found that specimens with a single fiber orientation parallel to the load axis shows higher strength in both tests. Next, In the case of GFRP with fibers oriented parallel to the load axis, it is found that fatigue loading causes fatigue crack initiation at the fiber ends, followed by fiber localized debonding due to crack propagation at the fiber‐matrix interface and that the crack propagation rate gradually decreases and stops. Therefore, this suggests that the increase in fiber length of fibers oriented parallel to the load axis in GFRP leads to an increase in the crack propagation life at the fiber‐matrix interface, which leads to an increase in fatigue life.
A thioredoxin peroxidase protects Pieris rapae from oxidative stress induced by chlorantraniliprole exposure
Authors: Zhao Le , Cao Ye , Wang Dong‐Dong , Chen Nan , Li Shi‐Guang , Liu Su , Li Mao‐Ye
Published: September 2022

Chlorantraniliprole (CAP) is an insecticide widely used to control the small white butterfly (SWB), Pieris rapae. Exposure to CAP can cause oxidative injury in SWB; however, it is unclear if antioxidant enzymes are involved in the defense process. In this study, a thioredoxin peroxidase (PrTPX1) gene was identified from SWB by using a homology search method. The gene encoded a 195 amino‐acid PrTPX1 protein. Sequence characteristics and phylogenetic analysis indicated that PrTPX1 was a typical “2‐Cys” TPX, and the PrTPX1 gene consisted of four exons and three introns. Reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis indicated that the messenger RNA levels of PrTPX1 were highest in third‐, fourth‐ and fifth‐instar larval stages and in the larval midgut. Treatment with sublethal doses (LD20 and LD50) of CAP for 6, 12, 18, and 24 h resulted in increased H2O2 concentration in SWB larvae, indicating insecticide‐induced oxidative stress. The transcriptional levels of PrTPX1 were significantly enhanced in larvae exposed to CAP. Recombinant PrTPX1 protein was expressed in Escherichia coli. Enzymatic assay revealed that the protein displayed antioxidant activity and was able to protect against oxidative challenge. These results indicated that PrTPX1 plays an important role in oxidative stress responses and may contribute to the CAP tolerance in SWB.
Genetic Influences in Cancer‐Associated Myositis
Authors: Patasova Karina , Lundberg Ingrid E. , Holmqvist Marie
Published: September 2022

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare immune‐mediated disorders that primarily affect muscles but also lead to dysfunction in other organs. Five different clinical subphenotypes of IIM have been distinguished: dermatomyositis, polymyositis, inclusion body myositis, antisynthetase syndrome, and immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy. Excess mortality and morbidity associated with IIM are largely attributed to comorbidities, particularly cancer. The risk of malignancy is not equally distributed among IIM groups and is particularly high among patients with dermatomyositis. The cancer risk peaks around 3 years on either side of the IIM diagnosis and remains elevated even 10 years after the onset of the disease. Lung, colorectal, and ovarian neoplasms typically arise before the onset of IIM, whereas melanoma, cervical, oropharyngeal, and nonmelanoma skin cancers usually develop after IIM diagnosis. Given the close temporal proximity between IIM diagnosis and the emergence of malignancy, it has been proposed that IIM could be a consequence rather than a cause of cancer, a process known as a paramalignant phenomenon. Thus, a separate group of IIMs related to paramalignant phenomenon has been distinguished, known as cancer‐associated myositis (CAM). Although the relationship between IIM and cancer is widely recognized, the pathophysiology of CAM remains elusive. Given that genetic factors play a role in the development of IIM, dissection of the molecular mechanisms shared between IIM and cancer presents an opportunity to examine the role of autoimmunity in cancer development and progression. In this review, the evidence supporting the contribution of genetics to CAM will be discussed.
Mechanistic Understanding of KOtBu‐Mediated Direct Amidation of Esters with Anilines: An Experimental Study and Computational Approach
Authors: Nad Pinaki , Gupta Kriti , Sen Anik , Mukherjee Arup
Published: September 2022

A sustainable and cost‐effective protocol has been reported for the synthesis of amide bonds from unactivated esters and non‐nucleophilic amines promoted by potassium tert‐butoxide under aerobic conditions. The reaction proceeds under relatively mild conditions, encompassing wide substrate scope. A combined experimental and quantum chemical study has been performed to shed light on the mechanism, which implied that a radical pathway is operating for the present protocol.
Model misspecification and bias for inverse probability weighting estimators of average causal effects
Authors: Waernbaum Ingeborg , Pazzagli Laura
Published: September 2022

Commonly used semiparametric estimators of causal effects specify parametric models for the propensity score (PS) and the conditional outcome. An example is an augmented inverse probability weighting (IPW) estimator, frequently referred to as a doubly robust estimator, because it is consistent if at least one of the two models is correctly specified. However, in many observational studies, the role of the parametric models is often not to provide a representation of the data‐generating process but rather to facilitate the adjustment for confounding, making the assumption of at least one true model unlikely to hold. In this paper, we propose a crude analytical approach to study the large‐sample bias of estimators when the models are assumed to be approximations of the data‐generating process, namely, when all models are misspecified. We apply our approach to three prototypical estimators of the average causal effect, two IPW estimators, using a misspecified PS model, and an augmented IPW (AIPW) estimator, using misspecified models for the outcome regression (OR) and the PS. For the two IPW estimators, we show that normalization, in addition to having a smaller variance, also offers some protection against bias due to model misspecification. To analyze the question of when the use of two misspecified models is better than one we derive necessary and sufficient conditions for when the AIPW estimator has a smaller bias than a simple IPW estimator and when it has a smaller bias than an IPW estimator with normalized weights. If the misspecification of the outcome model is moderate, the comparisons of the biases of the IPW and AIPW estimators show that the AIPW estimator has a smaller bias than the IPW estimators. However, all biases include a scaling with the PS‐model error and we suggest caution in modeling the PS whenever such a model is involved. For numerical and finite sample illustrations, we include three simulation studies and corresponding approximations of the large‐sample biases. In a dataset from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we estimate the effect of smoking on blood lead levels.
Against the “one method fits all data sets” philosophy for comparison studies in methodological research
Authors: Strobl Carolin , Leisch Friedrich
Published: September 2022

Many methodological comparison studies aim at identifying a single or a few “best performing” methods over a certain range of data sets. In this paper we take a different viewpoint by asking whether the research question of identifying the best performing method is what we should be striving for in the first place. We will argue that this research question implies assumptions which we do not consider warranted in methodological research, that a different research question would be more informative, and how this research question can be fruitfully investigated.
Protein structure–function exploration initiative in undergraduate biochemistry and independent research courses
Authors: Trivedi Vishwa D.
Published: September 2022

Protein structure–function relationship serves as the primary learning outcome in any undergraduate biochemistry course. We expanded the protein structure–function exploration, PSFE initiative during COVID‐19 to provide more effective and engaging experience to our undergraduates in biochemistry and independent research courses. Multiple alignments of protein sequences provided crucial insight into sequence conservation across many species and thus allow identification of those sections of the sequence most critical to protein function. We used Anabaena Sensory Rhodopsin, ASR its transducer, ASRT and downstream novel kinase gene products of Anabaena PCC 7120 to seek their alignment with homologs in available database. Pymol served an opportunity to achieve this goal (interactive learning during lab session and stimulation of course content discussion) in interesting ways. The PSFE initiative expansion continued during pandemic using online/hybrid modality. Initially model examples all helical ASR and beta‐sheet ASRT were introduced to connect and integrate our ongoing research interest into classroom activities. Subsequently, undergraduates in biochemistry course were assigned a homolog of model proteins any particular protein of students choice to study and characterize using Pymol in semester. During first phase, each undergraduate worked independently using established guidelines. Student's exploration progress was periodically reviewed in pilot phase with majority of students who perceived it as challenging task successfully completed the assignment. Using the PyMol application to reinforce visual understanding of protein structure was highly satisfying experience that greatly enriched undergraduates understanding and appreciation. This article reports a session from the virtual international 2021 IUBMB/ASBMB workshop, “Teaching Science on BigData.”
MEG measured delta waves increase in adolescents after concussion
Authors: Davenport Elizabeth M. , Urban Jillian E. , Vaughan Christopher , DeSimone Jesse C. , Wagner Ben , Espeland Mark A. , Powers Alexander K. , Whitlow Christopher T. , Stitzel Joel D. , Maldjian Joseph A.
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to determine if delta waves, measured by magnetoencephalography (MEG), increase in adolescents due to a sports concussion.

Methods

Twenty‐four adolescents (age 14–17) completed pre‐ and postseason MRI and MEG scanning. MEG whole‐brain delta power was calculated for each subject and normalized by the subject's total power. In eight high school football players diagnosed with a concussion during the season (mean age = 15.8), preseason delta power was subtracted from their postseason scan. In eight high school football players without a concussion (mean age = 15.7), preseason delta power was subtracted from postseason delta power and in eight age‐matched noncontact controls (mean age = 15.9), baseline delta power was subtracted from a 4‐month follow‐up scan.

ANOVA was used to compare the mean differences between preseason and postseason scans for the three groups of players, with pairwise comparisons based on Student's t‐test method.

Results

Players with concussions had significantly increased delta wave power at their postseason scans than nonconcussed players (p = .018) and controls (p = .027).

Conclusion

We demonstrate that a single concussion during the season in adolescent subjects can increase MEG measured delta frequency power at their postseason scan. This adds to the growing body of literature indicating increased delta power following a concussion.
Curious about the circular economy? Internal and external influences on information search about the product lifecycle
Authors: Di Iorio Vinicio , Testa Francesco , Korschun Daniel , Iraldo Fabio , Iovino Roberta
Published: September 2022

The advent of the circular economy has repurposed traditional consumption habits. It is expanding opportunities for consumers to preserve the ecosystem throughout the whole product lifecycle. Drawing from extant rational and moral theories in behavior change, this research extends the understanding of consumer involvement in the circular economy by investigating whether being exposed to “green” clues can trigger additional information seeking and be empowering to people to contribute to the circular economy. In contrast to some prior research that suggests that information can overload consumers, this research finds that these “green” clues can stimulate greater information seeking, which can make the consumer feel more capable of effecting change through circular economy consumption. This study draws a conceptual model for behavioral change, tested on a representative sample of 4161 individuals across the five largest European countries. Results show that external “green” clues prompt consumers' information search on product lifecycle and ultimately make them feel empowered to contribute to the circular economy. Overall the research suggests that sustainability information can stimulate heightened curiosity and encourage consumers to become willing and active participants in this burgeoning circular economy.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 2‐(Halophenyl)benzoxazole‐5‐Carboxylic Acids as Potential Anti‐Inflammatory and Cytotoxic Agent with Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Thakral Sumit , Kumar Devinder , Thakral Samridhi , Singh Vikramjeet , Muni Nagesh A , Verma Sneha , Pandey Deepak
Published: September 2022

2‐Halogenatedphenyl benzoxazole‐5‐carboxylic acids with mono‐halogen (chloro, bromo and fluoro) substituted at ortho‐, meta‐ and para‐positions on the phenyl ring were designed and synthesized based on significance of presence of halogen in increasing number of marketed halogenated drugs and importance of benzoxazoles. These 2‐alogenatedphenylbenzoxazole‐5‐carboxylic acids and their methyl esters were screened for anti‐inflammatory activity, and cytotoxicity. 2‐(3‐Chlorophenyl)benzoxaole‐5‐carboxylic acid (6b) exhibited significant anti‐inflammatory activity with IC50values of 0.103 mM almost equivalent to the standard drug ibuprofen (0.101 mM). 2‐(4‐Chlorophenyl)benzoxaole‐5‐carboxylic acid (6c) showed excellent cytotoxic activity against 22Rv1 cells (human prostate carcinoma epithelial cell lines) with IC50value of 1.54 μM better than that of standard drug doxorubicin having IC50value of 2.32 μM. More importantly, the selectivity index of this potential molecule was found to be 57.74. Molecular docking analysis resulted in good binding interactions of these compounds with their respective biochemical targetsviz. Cyclooxygenase‐2 and aldo‐keto reductase IC3.
The Argentine MistletoesLigaria cuneifolia(Ruiz & Pav.) Tiegh (Loranthaceae) andPhoradendron liga(Gillies ex Hook. & Arn.) Eichler (Santalaceae). Thirty Years of Research
Authors: Dobrecky Cecilia B. , Lucangioli Silvia E. , Wagner Marcelo L.
Published: September 2022

Ligaria cuneifolia(Ruiz & Pav.) Tiegh (Loranthaceae) andPhoradendron liga(Gillies ex Hook. & Arn.) Eichler (Santalaceae) are regarded as Argentine mistletoes based on their similarities with the European counterpart,Viscum albumL. (Santalaceae). These two species are the most used medicinal plants to treat high blood pressure in the Argentinian population. To provide scientific grounds to their traditional use and therapeutic potential, they were selected as herbal drug candidates. The main findings would support the anti‐hypertensive action, the anticholesterolemic and antioxidant features ofL. cuneifolia, and immunomodulatory properties for both species. Quercetin‐O‐glycosides, galloyl glycosides, and proanthocyanidins are present inL. cuneifoliawhileP. ligashows C‐glycosyl flavones and 3‐deoxyproanthocyanidins. This review summarizes the phytochemical characterization, medicinal properties and reveals promising results warranting future efforts for further investigation.
Caveolin‐1 suppresses hippocampal neuron apoptosis via the regulation of HIF1α in hypoxia in naked mole‐rats
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Wu Wenqing , Zhao Ying , Li Yu , Zhang Chengcai , Zhang Jingyuan , Chen Chao , Cui Shufang
Published: September 2022

Naked mole‐rats (NMRs) (Heterocephalus glaber) are highly social and subterranean rodents with large communal colonies in burrows containing low oxygen levels. The inhibition of severe hypoxic conditions is of particular interest to this study. To understand the mechanisms that facilitate neuronal preservation during hypoxia, we investigated the proteins regulating hypoxia tolerance in NMR hippocampal neurons. Caveolin‐1 (Cav‐1), a transmembrane scaffolding protein, confers prosurvival signalling in the central nervous system. The present study aimed to investigate the role of Cav‐1 in hypoxia‐induced neuronal injury. Western blotting analysis and immunocytochemistry showed that Cav‐1 expression was significantly upregulated in NMR hippocampal neurons under 8% O2 conditions for 8 h. Cav‐1 alleviates apoptotic neuronal death from hypoxia. Downregulation of Cav‐1 by lentiviral vectors suggested damage to NMR hippocampal neurons under hypoxic conditions in vitro and in vivo. Overexpression of Cav‐1 by LV‐Cav‐1 enhanced hypoxic tolerance of NMR hippocampal neurons in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the levels of hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) are also increased under hypoxic conditions. After inhibiting the binding of HIF‐1α to hypoxia response elements in the DNA by echinomycin, Cav‐1 levels were downregulated significantly. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays showed the direct role of HIF1α in regulating the expression levels of Cav‐1 in NMR hippocampal neurons under hypoxic conditions. These findings suggest that Cav‐1 plays a critical role in modulating the apoptosis of NMR hippocampal neurons and warrant further studies targeting Cav‐1 to treat hypoxia‐associated brain diseases.