bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Adaptive Imaging Parameters to Improve PEGylated Ultrasmall Iron Oxide Nanoparticles‐Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Li Cang , Shan Shanshan , Chen Lei , Afshari Mohammad Javad , Wang Hongzhao , Lu Kuan , Kou Dandan , Wang Ning , Gao Yang , Liu Chunyi , Zeng Jianfeng , Liu Feng , Gao Mingyuan
Published: August 2024

The PEGylated ultrasmall iron oxide nanoparticles (PUSIONPs) exhibit longer blood residence time and better biodegradability than conventional gadolinium‐based contrast agents (GBCAs), enabling prolonged acquisitions in contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance angiography (CE‐MRA) applications. The image quality of CE‐MRA is dependent on the contrast agent concentration and the parameters of the pulse sequences. Here, a closed‐form mathematical model is demonstrated and validated to automatically optimize the concentration, echo time (TE), repetition time (TR) and flip angle (FA). The pharmacokinetic studies are performed to estimate the dynamic intravascular concentrations within 12 h postinjection, and the adaptive concentration‐dependent sequence parameters are determined to achieve optimal signal enhancement during a prolonged measurement window. The presented model is tested on phantom and in vivo rat images acquired from a 3T scanner. Imaging results demonstrate excellent agreement between experimental measurements and theoretical predictions, and the adaptive sequence parameters obtain better signal enhancement than the fixed ones. The low‐dose PUSIONPs (0.03 mmol kg−1 and 0.05 mmol kg−1) give a comparable signal intensity to the high‐dose one (0.10 mmol kg−1) within 2 h postinjection. The presented mathematical model provides guidance for the optimization of the concentration and sequence parameters in PUSIONPs‐enhanced MRA, and has great potential for further clinical translation.
Aggregation‐induced emission biomarkers for early detection of orthopaedic implant failure
Authors: Tavakoli Javad , Hu Qi , Tipper Joanne L. , Tang Youhong
Published: August 2024

In recent years, the substantial increase in total joint replacements for treating degenerative joint disease has heightened concerns regarding implant loosening and failure. This is especially critical as more young patients are undergoing both initial and subsequent joint replacement procedures. These complications often necessitate additional revision surgeries. Unfortunately, current clinical practices lack effective methods for the early detection of implant failure, and there is a noticeable absence of strategies utilizing molecular markers to identify post‐surgery implant issues. This article critically assesses the potential of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) biomarkers in detecting molecular markers relevant to implant failure. It begins by outlining the pathogenesis of implant loosening and identifying pertinent molecular markers. The study then delves into how AIE luminogens (AIEgens) can play a crucial role in detecting processes such as osteogenesis and osteoclastogenesis. Notably, it discusses the utilization of AIEgens in detecting key molecular markers, including TNF‐α, osteocalcin, and urinary N‐terminal telopeptide. The prospect of AIE biomarkers for the early detection of bone loss and implant failure presents a promising avenue for enhancing our understanding of skeletal health and improving clinical outcomes through timely intervention and personalized treatment approaches. Ongoing research and development in this area are crucial for translating AIE‐based technologies into practical tools for optimizing bone health management.
Is cultural appropriateness culturally specific? Intersectional insights from a community‐based participatory mental health intervention study conducted with diverse cultural groups
Authors: Hess Julia Meredith , Magan Ifrah Mahamud , Goodkind Jessica R.
Published: August 2024

Growing evidence supports the importance of culturally appropriate mental health interventions, yet it is not always feasible to develop culturally grounded interventions or adapt existing interventions for each cultural group. In addition, these approaches do not recognize the multiple intersecting aspects of culture and identity that individuals, families, and communities possess. Thus, an essential question is whether culturally appropriate mental health interventions have to be culturally specific. We address this question by examining processes of the Refugee Well‐being Project (RWP), a community‐based mental health intervention for refugees resettled in the United States, which included people from multiple cultural groups (Afghanistan, Great Lakes region of Africa, Iraq, and Syria) and was grounded in common experiences of forcibly displaced people from marginalized backgrounds. RWP incorporates a practice‐based concept of culture, an intersectional view of identity, and a multilevel approach to address postmigration stressors. Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 290 participants at preintervention, followed by interviews at three timepoints with a purposively selected subsample (n = 66). Additional interviews (n = 101) were conducted with refugee and student partners. Four themes demonstrated key principles for creating culturally appropriate interventions with diverse groups: (a) recognize cultural complexity in practice; (b) focus on how racism and discrimination are experienced in everyday life; (c) de‐center dominant US culture; and (d) create an egalitarian, inclusive space to put principles into action. We conclude that mental health interventions implemented with multiple, diverse groups can be culturally appropriate and effective without being culturally specific.
Recessive loss‐of‐function variants in DPH1 identified as the molecular cause in a sibling pair previously diagnosed with Fine–Lubinsky syndrome
Authors: Waskow Emily R. ,   Undiagnosed Diseases Network, Emrick Lisa T. , Rosenfeld Jill A. , Ketkar Shamika , Burrage Lindsay C. , Scott Daryl A.
Published: August 2024

Fine–Lubinsky syndrome is a rare clinically defined syndrome sometimes referred to as brachycephaly, deafness, cataract, microstomia, and impaired intellectual development syndrome. Here we provide a clinical and molecular update for a sibling pair diagnosed with Fine–Lubinsky syndrome. An extensive genetic work‐up, including chromosomal microarray analysis and quad exome sequencing, was nondiagnostic. However, a research reanalysis of their exome sequencing data revealed that both were homozygous for an intronic c.749+39G>A [NM_001383.6] variant in DPH1. RNAseq analysis performed on RNA from fibroblasts revealed significantly reduced expression of DPH1 transcripts suggestive of abnormal splicing followed by nonsense mediated mRNA decay. Since the phenotypes of this sibling pair were consistent with those associated with the inheritance of biallelic pathogenic variants in DPH1, they were given a diagnosis of developmental delay with short stature, dysmorphic facial features, and sparse hair 1 (DEDSSH1). This leads us to recommend that all individuals with a clinical diagnosis of Fine–Lubinsky syndrome be screened for variants in DPH1. The clinical histories of this sibling pair emphasize that hearing loss associated with DEDSSH1 may remit over time and that individuals with DEDSSH1 should be monitored for the development of cardiomyopathy. This case also demonstrates the clinical utility of RNAseq as a means of functionally validating the effects of intronic variants that may affect splicing.
Lumbarization and sacralization: Domains of their co‐occurrence with other costal‐vertebral transformations are not identical
Authors: Tague Robert G.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study evaluates whether sacralization of a lumbar vertebra and lumbarization of a sacral vertebra are a paired duality but with opposite expressions; the former is associated with 23 presacral vertebrae (PSV) and the latter with 25 PSV. Are sacralization and lumbarization local phenomena, involving only vertebra (V) 24 and V25, or are they associated with other costal‐vertebral transformations?

Materials and Methods

Study sample is of skeletonized humans, 431 females and 1405 males, who were 20–49 years of age‐at‐death and who died in the United States in the 20th and 21st centuries. Data collected are numbers of PSV and sacral vertebrae, presence of rib of V7, position of diaphragmatic vertebra, and transverse process and rib lengths of V5–V9, V18–V19, and V21–V22.

Results

Females and males differ significantly in numbers of PSV. Both sexes show significant differences among individuals with 23 PSV, 24 PSV, and 25 PSV: (1) individuals with 23 PSV have the shortest ribs, whereas those with 25 PSV have the longest ribs, of V18 and V19; and (2) individuals with 23 PSV have the highest frequency of 6 sacral vertebrae, whereas those with 25 PSV have the highest frequency of 5 sacral vertebrae.

Discussion

Individuals with 23 PSV and 25 PSV show posterior and anterior homeotic transformation, respectively, of the thoracic‐lumbar and lumbar‐sacral boundaries, but only individuals with 25 PSV show transformation of the sacral–coccygeal boundary. As co‐occurring costal‐vertebral transformations differ between sacralization and lumbarization, inferentially the set of genes that influences these vertebrae also differs.
Measuring Kinetics under Vibrational Strong Coupling: Testing for a Change in the Nucleophilicity of Water and Alcohols
Authors: Muller Cyprien , Mayer Robert J. , Piejko Maciej , Patrahau Bianca , Bauer Valentin , Moran Joseph
Published: August 2024

Vibrational Strong Coupling (VSC) has been reported to change the rate of organic reactions. However, a lack of convenient and reliable methods to measure reaction kinetics under VSC makes it challenging to obtain mechanistic insight into its influence, hindering progress in the field. Here, we use recently developed fixed‐width optical cavities to obtain large kinetic datasets under VSC with small errors (±1–5 %) in an operationally simple manner using UV/Vis spectroscopy. The setup is used to test whether VSC changes a fundamental kinetic property of polar reactions, nucleophilicity, for water and alcohols, species commonly used in VSC‐modified chemistry. We determined the rate constants for nucleophilic capture with a library of benzhydrilium ions as reference electrophiles with and without strong coupling of the nucleophile's key vibrations. For all investigated combinations of electrophiles and nucleophiles, only minor changes in the observed rate constants of the reactions were observed independently of the coupled bands. These results indicate that VSC does not substantially alter the nucleophilicity of water and alcohols, suggesting that polar reactions are modified through other, presently unknown mechanisms. Fixed‐width cavities allow for convenient and reproducible UV/Vis kinetics, facilitating mechanistic studies of VSC‐modified chemistry.
Elektrochemische Homo‐ und Kreuzcyclisierung von Alkinen und Nitrilen für die regio‐ und chemoselektive Synthese von 3,6‐Diarylpyridinen
Authors: Ghosh Mangish , Mandal Tirtha , Lepori Mattia , Barham Joshua‐Philip , Rehbein Julia , Reiser Oliver
Published: August 2024

Wir berichten eine elektrochemische [2+2+2]‐Cyclisierung von Alkinen mit Nitrilen, bei der in einem einzigen Schritt aus kostengünstigen, leicht verfügbaren Ausgangsmaterialien substituierte Pyridine gebildet werden. Durch die Kombination von Elektrochemie und einem Triarylamin‐Redoxvermittler kann auf Übergangsmetalle und zusätzliche Oxidationsmittel verzichtet werden. Neben der Bildung von Diarylpyridinen über die Homokupplung zweier identischer Alkine ist auch die Heterokupplung zweier unterschiedlicher Alkine in Abhängigkeit von ihren elektronischen Eigenschaften möglich, was die beispiellose Kontrolle der Chemoselektivität in diesem katalytischen [2+2+2]‐Prozess unterstreicht. Mechanistische Untersuchungen wie Cyclovoltammetrie und Crossover‐Experimente in Verbindung mit DFT‐Berechnungen deuten auf die einleitende Oxidation eines Alkins als Schlüsselschritt hin, der zur Bildung eines Vinylradikalkation führt. Der Einsatz der Durchflusstechnik erwies sich als entscheidend für ein effizientes Scale‐up des Prozesses. Die Nützlichkeit der Produkte wird durch die Synthese von Molekülen mit ausgedehnten π‐Systemen veranschaulicht, die für die Material‐ oder Arzneimittelsynthese relevant sind.
A Review of the Use of the Nickel Catalyst in Azide‐Alkyne Cycloaddition Reactions
Authors: Sarreshtehdar Aslaheh Hamideh , Payamifar Sara , Poursattar Marjani Ahmad
Published: August 2024

Trying to find beneficial and effective catalysis for synthesizing biologically active and valuable 1,2,3‐triazoles is continually being studied to make the procedure more efficient, green, and eco‐friendly. The click reaction is famous in green chemistry for its high selectivity and efficiency in generating 1,2,3‐triazoles with important pharmaceutical and biological activities. 1,3‐Dipolar cycloaddition reaction of organic azides and alkynes by copper‐mediated have a great deal of attention paid to and developed to provide 1,2,3‐triazoles. However, utilizing Cu(II) species frequently requires a reducing reagent, making this approach less atom‐economic. Recently, notable progress has been made in designing and developing metal‐catalyzed click reactions to prepare 1,2,3‐triazoles. As appropriate alternatives to copper catalysts, nickel catalysts can be a good choice in click reactions. This review thoroughly studies the excellent potential of nickel catalysts in azide‐alkyne cycloaddition reactions and recommends using them as proper alternatives to traditional copper catalysts. This review can pave the path for further application of nickel catalysts in click reactions.
The effect of silicon incorporation on hybrid polyurethane‐imide elastomers with graphite flakes: Unique microstructures, conducting properties, and mechanical properties
Authors: Jiang An‐ji , Xia Wei , Fang Yu , Huang Jin , Zhang Peng
Published: August 2024

In this paper, a series of silicon hybrid polyurethane‐imides (SPUI) with high stability were constructed by introducing diphenylsilanediol (DPSD) and imidization effect, in which the segment character and hydrogen bonding were adjusted. Various “sea‐island” microphase separations, similar evolution from blooming flower to bud like microdomains was originating from the hard segment clusters, where the segment distribution was labeled and visualized by the stacking of silicon heteroatom. Comparing with pure polyurethane (PU), tensile strength and elongation at break for SPUIs increased from 0.71 ± 0.04 to 17.67 ± 1.84 MPa and from 84.39% ± 6.79% to 202.38% ± 14.50%, respectively. Interestingly, the silicon‐induced aggregates of hard segments in SPUI/graphite flakes (SPUI/GFs), densely crowded around GFs except for some dispersions, revealing similar coupling agent characters of SPUI and self‐affinity with GFs. Thus, the high performance was achieved due to adjustable percolation and cross‐linking networks. Percolation thresholds were decreased from 2.04 to 0.61 wt% and the conductivity of 1.0 × 100 S/m at GFs contents of 5.0 wt% for SPUIz/GFs‐500 was achieved, 2–3 orders of magnitude higher than that of SPUIz/GFs‐2000 except for high stability in conductivity, far lower than those of reported composites. Finally, this study was of great significance for developing functional PU materials with high performance.
Preparation and properties of solvent induced biodegradable thermosetting poly (siloxane urethane)
Authors: Zhang Hao , Qi Xi , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Yujie , Li Ning , Zeng Fanglei , Jiang Shengling , Ding Jianning
Published: August 2024

It is difficult to recycle classic thermosetting plastics. Although some of them can be reprocessed, the mechanical properties decline linearly after processing. In addition, most thermosetting plastics are not environmentally friendly and difficult to degrade, resulting in a lot of pollution and limiting their practical application potential. In this paper, the prepolymer is synthesized by using castor oil (CO), hydroxyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS‐OH), and toluene diisocyanate (TDI). Using 4,4'‐diaminodiphenyl disulfide (ODD) as a chain extender with dynamic disulfide bond and aniline (An) as a blocking agent, polysiloxane‐aminoester (SiCPUO) with recyclable function under DMF induction was prepared. The effect of the amount of rigid chain extender (ODD) containing disulfide bond on the properties of SiCPUO was studied, its heat resistance will first increase and then decrease with the increase of ODD content, especially the mechanical properties are more obvious, this trend has never been reported before; the mechanical properties and recyclability of SiCPUO are tested, and the comprehensive performance of SiCPUO2 is the best, the tensile strength is 0.84 MPa and the elongation at break was 65.81%; the solubility test of different solvents showed that it has recyclability, recovery rate is 95%;the material has self‐healing function, the repair efficiency is up to 95%.
Machine learning‐based time series analysis of polylactic acid bead foam extrusion
Authors: Shah Karim Ali , Albuquerque Rodrigo Q. , Brütting Christian , Ruckdäschel Holger
Published: August 2024

Understanding the behavior of polymer melts during extrusion is essential for optimizing processes and developing new materials. However, analyzing the continuous data generated by an extruder poses significant challenges. This paper investigates the utility of machine learning in predicting melt pressure at the die plate in polylactic acid (PLA) bead foam extrusion, a critical parameter in the extrusion process. Utilizing a random forest (RF) model, we examine how various processing parameters influence melt pressure. By segmenting the data into time‐delayed intervals, we achieve accurate predictions. We present forecasts of melt pressure at the die for intervals of 5 s, 1 min, and 5 min, demonstrating particularly strong performance for the 5‐min forecast with a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 1.88 and the coefficient of determination ( score) of 0.90. By exploring time series data, our study demonstrates the effectiveness of the RF model and provides a foundation for more advanced and precise control strategies in polymer bead extrusion processes.
Photochemical Action of Far‐UVC Radiation (222 nm) in Wastewater Treatment and Indoor Air Disinfection
Authors: Das Aurosikha , Monika  , Kunwar Ambarish
Published: August 2024

Ultraviolet‐ C irradiation can effectively disinfect various pathogens present in air, surfaces, and water. Various recent research studies suggest use of KrCl* (krypton‐chloride) excimer lamps to disinfect high‐risk public spaces having pathogenic bateria and viruses, as they emit Far‐UVC radiation (222 nm) with lower health risks than germicidal UVC (254 nm). The purification of water and air having pollutants and pathogens is a critical challenge in environmental protection and public health assurance. Far‐UVC excimer lamps (222 nm) have shown potential in decontaminating various organic pollutants, however, their efficacy against inorganic pollutants present in wastewater and indoor air as well as associated chemistry requires further investigations for wider acceptance. This review examines various photochemical action of Far‐UVC radiation (222 nm) in wastewater treatment and indoor air disinfection, elaborating their potential for inorganic pollutant removal in wastewater as well as challenges associated with their application in disinfection of indoor air.
Stimulus effects of extremely low‐frequency electric field exposure on calcium oscillations in a human cortical spheroid
Authors: Saito Atsushi , Shiina Takeo , Sekiba Yoichi
Published: August 2024

High‐intensity, low‐frequency (1 Hz to 100 kHz) electric and magnetic fields (EF and MF) cause electrical excitation of the nervous system via an induced EF (iEF) in living tissue. However, the biological properties and thresholds of stimulus effects on synchronized activity in a three‐dimensional (3D) neuronal network remain uncertain. In this study, we evaluated changes in neuronal network activity during extremely low‐frequency EF (ELF‐EF) exposure by measuring intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) oscillations, which reflect neuronal network activity. For ELF‐EF exposure experiments, we used a human cortical spheroid (hCS), a 3D‐cultured neuronal network generated from human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)‐derived cortical neurons. A 50 Hz sinusoidal ELF‐EF exposure modulated [Ca2+]i oscillations with dependencies on exposure intensity and duration. Based on the experimental setup and results, the iEF distribution inside the hCS was estimated using high‐resolution numerical dosimetry. The numerical estimation revealed threshold values ranging between 255–510 V/m (peak) and 131–261 V/m (average). This indicates that thresholds of neuronal excitation in the hCS were equivalent to those of a thin nerve fiber.
Novel low‐band gap non‐fullerene acceptors based on IDIC core as potential photovoltaic materials
Authors: Ravindran Radhiha , Kim Inchan , Kim Yun‐Hi , Kwon Soon‐Ki
Published: August 2024

Three novel non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) (PhBu‐IDT‐BT‐IC, PhBu‐IDT‐BT‐IC4F and PhBu‐IDT‐BT‐IC4Cl) based on 3,8‐dioctyl‐indaceno[1,2‐b:5,6‐b’]dithiophene (IDT) core have been designed and synthesized with and without halogen (F and Cl) substitution. The NFAs showed high thermal stability. The ultraviolet–visible absorption studies in solution and thin film for the three acceptors revealed maximum absorption from 687 to 732 nm and 731 to 847 nm, respectively. The onset of absorption in the thin film was found to be extending up to around 960 nm for PhBu‐IDT‐BT‐IC4Cl. The optical band gap ranged from 1.30 to 1.41 eV, which are very low and useful for photovoltaic application. The introduction of halogen appreciably altered the LUMO energy levels, whereas the HOMO energy levels were nearly intact. These small molecule non‐fullerene acceptors could be used as potential acceptors in bulk heterojunction organic photovoltaic (BHJ‐OPV) applications.
Exploration of resting‐state brain functional connectivity as preclinical markers for arousal prediction in prolonged disorders of consciousness: A pilot study based on functional near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Luo Yaomin , Wang Lingling , Yang Yuxuan , Jiang Xin , Zheng Kaiyuan , Xi Yu , Wang Min , Wang Li , Xu Yanlin , Li Jun , Xie Yulei , Wang Yinxu
Published: August 2024

Background

There is no diagnostic assessment procedure with moderate or strong evidence of use, and evidence for current means of treating prolonged disorders of consciousness (pDOC) is sparse. This may be related to the fact that the mechanisms of pDOC have not been studied deeply enough and are not clear enough. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the mechanism of pDOC using functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to provide a basis for the treatment of pDOC, as well as to explore preclinical markers for determining the arousal of pDOC patients.

Methods

Five minutes resting‐state data were collected from 10 pDOC patients and 13healthy adults using fNIRS. Based on the concentrations of oxyhemoglobin (HbO) and deoxyhemoglobin (HbR) in the time series, the resting‐state cortical brain functional connectivity strengths of the two groups were calculated, and the functional connectivity strengths of homologous and heterologous brain networks were compared at the sensorimotor network (SEN), dorsal attention network (DAN), ventral attention network (VAN), default mode network (DMN), frontoparietal network (FPN), and visual network (VIS) levels. Univariate binary logistic regression analyses were performed on brain networks with statistically significant differences to identify brain networks associated with arousal in pDOC patients. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were further analyzed to determine the cut‐off value of the relevant brain networks to provide clinical biomarkers for the prediction of arousal in pDOC patients.

Results

The results showed that the functional connectivity strengths of oxyhemoglobin (HbO)‐based SEN∼SEN, VIS∼VIS, DAN∼DAN, DMN∼DMN, SEN∼VIS, SEN∼FPN, SEN∼DAN, SEN∼DMN, VIS∼FPN, VIS∼DAN, VIS∼DMN, HbR‐based SEN∼SEN, and SEN∼DAN were significantly reduced in the pDOC group and were factors that could reflect the participants' state of consciousness. The cut‐off value of resting‐state functional connectivity strength calculated by ROC curve analysis can be used as a potential preclinical marker for predicting the arousal state of subjects.

Conclusion

Resting‐state functional connectivity strength of cortical networks is significantly reduced in pDOC patients. The cut‐off values of resting‐state functional connectivity strength are potential preclinical markers for predicting arousal in pDOC patients.
Prison mental health in South‐East Asia: A narrative review
Authors: Arafat S. M. Yasir , Kar Sujita Kumar , Abhayanayake Chittahari , Sharma Pawan , Marthoenis M.
Published: August 2024

Background

South‐East Asia is a densely populated region with a considerable, however, under‐prioritized mental health burden. Little is known about the mental health burden and services status in the prisons of the region.

Objectives

We aimed to investigate the individual country‐wise prison mental health status in South‐East Asian region.

Methods

We performed a narrative review based on the evidence available in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Google, and Google Scholar considering the review objectives. We highlighted country perspectives on total population, prison numbers, prisoner numbers, the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and suicide among prisoners, prison mental health services, current challenges, and ways ahead.

Results

We discussed the prison mental health of five countries (Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka). We found overcrowding (131.4%–215.6%) in the prisons, a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders in the prisons (40%–100%), negligible prison mental health services, and a lack of data on prison suicide with some variations among the five countries. Among the countries, Bangladesh has the highest prevalence (66.4%–100%) of psychiatric morbidity with an absence of a mental health system.

Conclusions

Prison mental health in tSouth‐East Asia is a neglected domain and warrants attention regarding ensuring adequate mental health services to the prisoners as there are high unmet mental health needs and an absence of poorly supported mental health needs.
The role of green marketing strategies for a competitive edge: A case study about analysis of leading green companies in Jordan
Authors: Eyadat Ahmad Ali , Almuhana Mohammad , Al‐Bataineh Tarique
Published: August 2024

This study aims to explore the relationship among green marketing practices, leadership commitment, and environmental performance specifically within Jordan's pharmaceutical industry. It explores the impact of green marketing strategies on the competitive advantage of leading green companies in Jordan. The limitations of this study focused on the Jordanian market, and its findings are not generalizable to other countries due to market contrasts. A quantitative approach was employed to address the research question of “to what extent” these strategies contribute. The theory of the resource‐based view (RBV) was applied to this topic because it suggests that a firm's competitive advantage and performance are primarily determined by its unique resources and capabilities. The research instrument consists of 9 factors clarifying the role of green marketing strategies in improving the competitive edge of leading green companies in Jordan. The population of this study includes all implementing managers of Jordanian leading green companies, while the sample of this study consists of 32 implementing managers. After distributing the scale to the participants of this study, their responses were collected and discussed carefully. Then, their responses were analyzed by using SPSS statistical tests. The results show a significant positive correlation between green marketing strategies and competitive edge. This indicates that leading Jordanian green companies actively gain “green marketing” initiatives to gain and maintain a competitive advantage in the market. The study concludes that embracing green marketing is crucial for Jordanian green companies to compete effectively and achieve sustained success. Novelty or originality in this research looks for specific statements that indicate to a novel theoretical approach, a new methodology, or an innovative application of existing theories, or a unique data. This adds new ideas to the knowledge of this study.
Hericium erinaceus Extract Induces Apoptosis via PI3K/AKT and RAS/MAPK Signaling Pathways in Prostate Cancer Cells
Authors: Atmaca Harika , Çamli Pulat Çisil , Ilhan Suleyman , Kalyoncu Fatih
Published: August 2024

Prostate cancer (PCa) is increasing globally, surpassing lung cancer in incidence. Despite available treatment options, prostate cancer remains incurable. Hence, novel therapeutic strategies are urgently needed to treat PCa. Hericium erinaceus (HE), a medicinal mushroom, offers diverse therapeutic benefits. We examined HE's effects on PCa cells, preparing an ethanol extract and identifying its volatile compounds through GC‐MS. MTT assay assessed cell viability, while specific inhibitors and western blotting explored HE's impact on PI3K/AKT and RAS/MAPK pathways. Flow cytometry and ELISA evaluated apoptosis induction. HE showed concentration‐ and time‐dependent cytotoxicity on PCa cells with minimal effects on normal cells. Mechanistically, HE suppressed PI3K/AKT and RAS/MAPK pathways, reducing phosphorylated protein levels. Moreover, it induced PCa cell apoptosis. These findings suggest HE as a potential therapeutic for prostate cancer, shedding light on its cytotoxic and apoptotic effects for further investigation.
Design, Synthesis, Evaluation of Antitubercular Activity and Insilco Studies of Novel 1,5‐Naphthyridin‐2(1H)‐One Pendent 1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Chilakala Nagendra Babu , Roy Arnab , Kalia Nitin Pal , Thumma Vishnu , Raju B. , Etnoori Sharada , Premalatha K.
Published: August 2024

A library of 1,5‐Naphthyridin‐2(1H)‐one based 1,2,3‐triazole analogues (11a–q) were synthesized via series of reactions such as protection, oxidation, cyclization and click chemistry. The new molecules were tested for their antitubercular activity against M. tuberculosis mc26230 and determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) employing Rifampicin as reference. The 3‐cyano and 4‐cyano substituted analogues 11e and 11f displayed superior activity with an MIC value of 4.0 μg/ml. Additionally, these potent molecules were tested for determination of their MBC values and ATP depletion assay showed a hopeful relative luminescence. Additionally, determined the MIC of 11e and 11f against multi‐drug resistant strains of M. tuberculosis viz. mc2 8243, mc2 8247 and mc2 8259. The cytotoxicity of these two molecules presented no effects on normal cell. The profound results of these two molecules proved them as potential antitubercular agent. Further, molecular docking studies were portrayed against crystal structure of M. tuberculosis dihydrofolate reductase which garnered promising docking scores and binding interactions such as H‐bond and hydrophobic. ADME prediction revealed their favorable drug‐likeness characteristics.
Phyllanretiosides A and B: Two Undescribed Compounds from Phyllanthus Reticulatus with Nitric Oxide Production Inhibition and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Yen Duong Thi Hai , Tai Bui Huu , Yen Pham Hai , Hoang Nguyen Huy , Huong Phan Thi Thanh , Bang Ngo Anh , Dung Duong Thi , Trang Do Thi , Anh Le Tuan , Van Kiem Phan
Published: August 2024

Phytochemical study on the methanol extract of the leaves of Phyllanthus reticulatus led to the isolation of two new compounds, phyllanretiosides A (1) and B (2) together with ten known ones (3–12). Their chemical structures were determined by HR‐ESI‐MS, NMR, and ECD spectra in comparison with the literature. Three ellagitannins, phyllanretioside A (1), corilagin (3), and phyllanthusiin C (4) inhibited lipopolysaccharide(LPS)‐induced nitric oxide production in RAW 264.7 cells with IC50 values of 63.2, 83.2, and 5.6 μM, respectively. In addition, compounds 1, 3, and 4 exhibited significantly antimicrobial activity (MICs: 16–128 μg/mL) towards some of seven microbial strains.
Novel Insecticidal Pyridylhydrazono Derivatives Identified via Scaffold Hopping and Conformation Regulation Strategies
Authors: Li Xiaoyang , Zhou Cong , Yang Wulin , Li Zhong , Cheng Jiagao
Published: August 2024

Insect transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) channels are critical targets for insecticides. In this study, various scaffold‐hopping strategies were employed in the rational design of pyridylhydrazono derivatives as potential insect TRPV channels modulators. Insecticidal bioassay demonstrated that the initial target compounds exhibited lower insecticidal activity compared to pymetrozine, with the optimal compound B3 exhibiting a mortality rate of 53.3 % against Aphis craccivora at 400 mg L−1. Conformation analysis indicated that the high energy barrier required for the transition from the lowest‐energy conformation to the active conformation may be a key factor contributing to the reduced insecticidal activities of the target compounds. Further structural optimizations aimed at reducing this energy barrier through binding mode‐based conformation regulation led to the identification of optimal target 4‐(3′‐pyridylhydrazono)pyrazol‐5‐one derivatives C1 and C2. These compounds exhibited reduced transition energy barriers and improved insecticidal activity, with moderate mortality rate of 66.3 % and 75.7 % against A. craccivora at 400 mg L−1, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights for future research on the discovery of insect TRPV modulators and have significant implications for the development of more effective agricultural insecticides.
Organ‐On‐A‐Chip Devices: Technology Progress and Challenges
Authors: Obeid Pierre J. , Yammine Paolo , El‐Nakat Hanna , Kassab Rima , Tannous Tony , Nasr Zeina , Maarawi Therese , Dahdah Norma , El Safadi Ali , Mansour Agapy , Chmayssem Ayman
Published: August 2024

Organ‐On‐a‐Chip (OOC) is a multichannel 3D‐microfluidic cell‐culture system incorporated in a chip that simulates the behavior of an organ. This technology relies on a multidisciplinary science that benefits from and contributes in the progress of many fields including microbiology, microfluidics, biomaterials, and bioengineering. This review article summarizes the progress and achievements of various organ‐on‐chip technologies. It highlights the significant advantages of this technology in terms of reducing animal testing and providing personalized medical responses. In addition, this paper demonstrates how OOC is becoming a promising and powerful tool in pharmaceutical research to combat diseases. It predicts not only the effects of drugs on the target organs but also, using body‐on‐a‐chip systems, it may provide insights into the side effects of the drug delivery on the other organs. Likewise, the models used for the construction of various organ‐on‐a‐chip devices are investigated along with the design and materials of microfluidic devices. For each OOC, the integrated monitoring devices within the chips (e. g., sensors and biosensors) are discussed. We also discuss the evolution of FDA regulations and the potential in the near future for integrating OOCs into protocols that support and reduce the need for and the failure rates in preclinical and clinical studies.
Interdependent Dynamic Nitroaldol and Boronic Ester Reactions for Complex Dynamers of Different Topologies
Authors: Karalius Antanas , Qi Yunchuan , Ayinla Mubarak , Szabó Zoltán , Ramström Olof
Published: August 2024

Complex dynamic systems displaying interdependency between nitroaldol and boronic ester reactions have been demonstrated. Nitroalkane‐1,3‐diols, generated by the nitroaldol reaction, were susceptible to ester formation with different boronic acids in aprotic solvents, whereas hydrolysis of the esters occurred in the presence of water. The boronic ester formation led to significant stabilization of the nitroaldol adducts under basic conditions. The use of bifunctional building blocks was furthermore established, allowing for main chain nitroaldol‐boronate dynamers as well as complex network dynamers with distinct topologies. The shape and rigidity of the resulting dynamers showed an apparent dependency on the configuration of the boronic acids.
Impacting the Surface Chemistry of NiAu by Immobilizing on MgO/N‐Rich Nanoporous Carbon Heterostructures for Boosting Catalytic Activities
Authors: Nithya Kesavan , Anbuselvan Natarajan , Anbarasan Rajagopal , Vasantha Vairathevar Sivasamy , Suresh Devarajan , Amali Arlin Jose
Published: August 2024

Tuning the physical and chemical interaction between metal–metal′ (M−M′) and metal–support is an ideal way to realize enhanced catalytic activity of metal nanoparticles (NPs). As a proof of concept, herein we report the fabrication of nickel‐gold (Ni−Au) alloy nanoparticles attached to N‐doped nanoporous carbon (NPC) intervened with MgO (Ni73Au27@MgO‐NPC), achieved through the impregnation of metal precursors into Schiff‐base network polymer (SNP) framework along with Mg(OH)2 and pyrolysis at 800 °C in N2 atmosphere. With high stability and heterogeneity, the nickel rich Ni73Au27@MgO‐NPC exhibited higher catalytic activities with turnover frequencies of 29,272 h−1 (hydrogenation of p‐nitrophenol), 93,843 h−1 (degradation of methyl orange), and 2,218 h−1 (epoxidation of stilbene), compared to commercial 10 wt % Pd/C. Enhanced catalytic activity is correlated to the synchronized electron density enhancement in Au, by Ni and MgO/N‐rich nanoporous carbon heterostructures, as evident from detailed X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopic studies.
Progress in Pharmacometrics Implementation and Regulatory Integration in Africa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ndzamba Bonginkosi S'fiso , Egieyeh Samuel , Fasinu Pius
Published: August 2024

The availability of clinical trial data, advocacy, and increased funding has facilitated the implementation of pharmacometrics in Africa, resulting in the establishment of additional training programs for pharmacometricians. This study conducted a systematic review to evaluate the progress made from the implementation of pharmacometrics in clinical drug development and its adoption into drug approval by regulatory authorities in Africa. We performed a comprehensive literature search using major databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar. The study included articles published until 2024, with no lower cutoff. Articles were excluded if not addressing the research question or of pharmacometrics studies done outside Africa with no collaboration with African researchers (study setting). For the review, a total of 121 articles were included for analysis. Among the reported pharmacometrics approaches, Population pharmacokinetics modeling approaches are the most used (95 (78.5%)). South Africa and Uganda researchers have the most research output in pharmacometrics in Africa (82 (89.1%) and 7 (7.61%), respectively), with the University of Cape Town (South Africa) producing the highest (71 (78.8%)) of all article in Africa. The most studied conditions are TB (43 (35.5%)), HIV (33 (27.3%), TB and HIV (22 (18.2%)), and malaria (12 (9.92%). Pharmacometrics is gaining momentum in Africa, and the progress made since inception will significantly improve the safety and efficacy of therapeutic agents used to treat HIV, TB, and other emerging conditions.
A Compendium of Methodically Determined Ground‐ and Excited‐State Properties of Homoleptic Ruthenium(II) and Osmium(II) Photosensitizers
Authors: Glaser Felix , De Kreijger Simon , Achilleos Katerina , Satheesh Lakshmi Narayan , Ripak Alexia , Chantry Noémie , Bourgois Céline , Quiquempoix Sophie , Scriven Joffrey , Rubens Julien , Vander Wee‐Léonard Milan , Daenen Martin , Gillard Martin , Elias Benjamin , Troian‐Gautier Ludovic
Published: August 2024

The one‐pot synthesis of a total of 32 ruthenium(II) and osmium(II) photosensitizers bearing substituted 2,2’‐bipyridines, 1,10‐phenanthrolines, and diaza ligands is reported. Whereas most of these photosensitizers were already reported in the literature, the present study offers extensive datasets of ground‐ and excited‐state properties highly desirable for future development in e. g., machine learning, artificial intelligence, and photoredox catalysis. All photosensitizers absorbed light intensely in the visible part of the spectrum, with the Os(II) photosensitizers absorbing further into the red part. Excited‐state lifetimes and photoluminescence quantum yields were generally larger for Ru(II) photosensitizers than for Os(II) analogs, which agrees with the energy gap law. The excited‐state redox potentials were determined for all investigated photosensitizers covering a range of −0.21 to −1.35 V vs. SCE for excited‐state oxidation and 0.14 to 1.48 V vs. SCE for excited‐state reduction. A procedure for counterion exchange to generate the corresponding PF6−, Cl−, BF4−, NO3−, OTf−, ClO4−, and BArF− is reported for six photosensitizers. The synthetic ease, detailed report of fundamental photophysical properties, and a broad range of excited‐state redox potentials open opportunities for systematic investigations in several applications and further streamline developments in photoredox catalysis.
Highly Stable Subnanometric PtIn Clusters for the Selective Dehydrogenation of Alkanes
Authors: Li Chengeng , Meyer Randall J. , Yacob Sara , Gomez Elaine , Lopez‐Haro Miguel , Calvino Jose J. , Moliner Manuel , Serna Pedro , Corma Avelino
Published: August 2024

Subnanometric PtIn clusters have been synthesized within pure silica MFI zeolites by post‐synthetic incorporation of In to Pt@K‐MFI. The optimized PtIn@K‐MFI catalyst outcompetes state‐of‐the‐art PtSn formulations in ethane and propane dehydrogenations, avoiding the need of large excess of Pt promoters and harsh reductive conditions.
Hierarchically Porous Fe−N−C Single‐Atom Catalysts via Ionothermal Synthesis for Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Kisand Kaarel , Sarapuu Ave , Douglin John C. , Kikas Arvo , Käärik Maike , Kozlova Jekaterina , Aruväli Jaan , Treshchalov Alexey , Leis Jaan , Kisand Vambola , Kukli Kaupo , Dekel Dario R. , Tammeveski Kaido
Published: August 2024

Platinum group metal (PGM)‐free electrocatalysts have emerged as promising alternatives to replace Pt for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in anion exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs). However, traditional synthesis methods limit the single‐atom site density due to metal agglomeration at higher temperatures. This work explores the preparation of hierarchically porous atomically dispersed electrocatalysts for the ORR. The materials were prepared via ionothermal synthesis, where magnesium nitrate was used to prepare hierarchically porous carbon materials. The in‐situ formed Mg‐Nx sites were trans‐metalated to yield ORR‐active Fe‐Nx sites. The resulting carbon‐based catalysts displayed excellent electrocatalytic activity, attributed to the atomically dispersed Fe‐Nx active sites and high meso‐ and macroporosity that enhanced the mass transport and exposed more accessible active sites.
Extracellular vesicles as the next‐generation modulators of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of medications and their potential as adjuvant therapeutics
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Nordin Joel Z. , McLachlan Andrew J. , Chrzanowski Wojciech
Published: August 2024

Background and main body

Pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) are central concepts to guide the dosage and administration of drug therapies and are essential to consider for both healthcare professionals and researchers in therapeutic planning and drug discovery. PK/PD properties of a drug significantly influence variability in response to treatment, including therapeutic failure or excessive medication‐related harm. Furthermore, suboptimal PK properties constitute a significant barrier to further development for some candidate treatments in drug discovery. This article describes how extracellular vesicles (EVs) affect different aspects of PK and PD of medications and their potential to modulate PK and PD properties to address problematic PK/PD profiles of drugs. We reviewed EVs' intrinsic effects on cell behaviours and medication responses. We also described how surface and cargo modifications can enhance EV functionalities and enable them as adjuvants to optimise the PK/PD profile of conventional medications. Furthermore, we demonstrated that various bioengineering strategies can be used to modify the properties of EVs, hence enhancing their potential to modulate PK and PD profile of medications.

Conclusion

This review uncovers the critical role of EVs in PK and PD modulation and motivates further research and the development of assays to unfold EVs’ full potential in solving PK and PD‐related problems. However, while we have shown that EVs play a vital role in modulating PK and PD properties of medications, we postulated that it is essential to define the context of use when designing and utilising EVs in pharmaceutical and medical applications.

Highlights

Existing solutions for pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics modulation are limited.

Extracellular vesicles can optimise pharmacokinetics as a drug delivery vehicle.

Biogenesis and administration of extracellular vesicles can signal cell response.

The pharmaceutical potential of extracellular vesicles can be enhanced by surface and cargo bioengineering.

When using extracellular vesicles as modulators of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, the ‘context of use’ must be considered.
Compensatory evolution of chromosomes and plasmids counteracts the plasmid fitness cost
Authors: Liu Ziyi , Zhao Qiuyun , Xu Chenggang , Song Houhui
Published: August 2024

Plasmids incur a fitness cost that has the potential to restrict the dissemination of resistance in bacterial pathogens. However, bacteria can overcome this disadvantage by compensatory evolution to maintain their resistance. Compensatory evolution can occur via both chromosomes and plasmids, but there are a few reviews regarding this topic, and most of them focus on plasmids. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of the currently reported mechanisms underlying compensatory evolution on chromosomes and plasmids, elucidate key targets regulating plasmid fitness cost, and discuss future challenges in this field. We found that compensatory evolution on chromosomes primarily arises from mutations in transcriptional regulatory factors, whereas compensatory evolution of plasmids predominantly involves three pathways: plasmid copy number regulation, conjugation transfer efficiency, and expression of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes. Furthermore, the importance of reasonable selection of research subjects and effective integration of diverse advanced research methods is also emphasized in our future study on compensatory mechanisms. Overall, this review establishes a theoretical framework that aims to provide innovative ideas for minimizing the emergence and spread of AMR genes.
Alkali Metal Ion Tuning of a Crown Ether‐Appended Porphyrin for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Surendran Adarsh Koovakattil , Veenman Elija , Roithová Jana
Published: August 2024

Iron‐porphyrin systems are among the best catalysts to reduce selectively CO2 to CO. Electronic modification of the porphyrin skeleton by substituents can enhance the catalytic efficiency of the complexes. In this work, we modified the iron porphyrin complex with crown‐ether auxiliaries and tested the effect of complexation with alkali metals on their electrocatalytic properties for CO2 reduction. The presence of Na+ or K+ resulted in a positive shift of the onset potential by 210 mV while not compromising the catalytic current. This effect was maintained after the immobilization at the vulcanized carbon support, and the catalyst showed the Faradaic efficiency above 90 % for CO2 to CO reduction in aqueous solution of NaHCO3 or KHCO3 in a wide range of overpotentials. Hence, host‐guest chemistry at the periphery of the CO2 reduction catalysts can tune the electronic properties of the catalysts and thereby increase the catalytic efficiency.