bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraspecific variation in leaf morphology of three widespread woody species along climatic gradients
Authors: Tang Rong , Guo Yanpei , Tang Zhiyao
Published: September 2024

The variation and plasticity of leaf morphology play a pivotal role in the response to environmental changes for plant individuals. Discovering the large-scale pattern of such variation can reveal plants’ general adaptive strategies. We analysed leaf morphology of three widespread woody species in the northern hemisphere using specimen data from the iDigBio and GBIF databases, to investigate the variations in the individual mean traits, in the inter- and intra-individual variability of traits, and in the allometry between traits, along climatic gradients. We found that larger and wider leaves were associated with warmer, wetter and low-sunlight habitats, while smaller but wider leaves are linked to higher wind speed, indicating the response of leaf morphology to multiple climate stresses. The inter-individual variation in leaf area was smaller in colder and windier conditions, suggesting the trait convergence among individuals under environmental filtering, while the intra-individual variation in leaf relative width (RW) was smaller in warmer habitats, indicating the similar growth optimum of leaves within one individual in more favourable conditions. Finally, the allometric exponent between leaf length (X-axis) and width (Y-axis) became greater under lower solar radiation and higher wind speed, while the squared correlation coefficient (r2) indicating phenotypic integration showed a decoupling trend under colder conditions, indicating that climate affected the variation tendency of leaf RW during leaf enlargement. These results reveal the common patterns of leaf morphology responding to climate variation spatially and underscore the necessity to consider inter- and intra-individual variability when examining plant responses to environmental changes.
Melatonin alleviates high glucose-induced cardiomyocyte injury through suppressing mitochondrial FUNDC1-DRP1 axis
Authors: Zheng Junyi , Zhao Lili , Zhang Yingying , He Wenbin , Guo Xukun , Wang Jixiang
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To use H9c2 cardiomyocytes to establish a diabetic cardiomyopathic model by exposing these cells to high glucose (HG), followed by treating them with melatonin (MEL) or plasmid vectors overexpressing FUN14 Domain Containing 1 (FUNDC1).

Methods

We employed quantitative real-time PCR, mitochondrial staining, and biochemical assays to measure the activity of various antioxidant and mitochondrial complex functions under various treatment conditions.

Key findings

Our results showed that HG induced the expression of FUNDC1 and increased mitochondrial oxidative stress and fragmentation, while MEL treatment reversed most of these pathological effects. Moreover, HG exposure activated dynamin-related protein 1 expression and its translocation to mitochondria. Modulation of AMP-activated protein kinase level was found to be another pathological hallmark. In silico molecular docking, analysis revealed that MEL could directly bind the catalytic groove of FUNDC1 through Van der Waal’s force and hydrogen bonding. Finally, MEL ameliorated diabetic cardiomyopathy-induced mitochondrial injury through FUNDC1 in vivo.

Conclusions

Hyperglycemia induced mitochondrial fragmentation and altered electron transport chain complex functions, which could be ameliorated by MEL treatment, suggesting its potential as a cardiovascular therapeutic.
Impact of immunoglobulin preparations on anti-HLA antibody specificity analysis
Authors: Nakagawa Rie , Matsuura Hideaki , Kojima Hayato , Abe Yuko , Yamada Ayuna , Doi Hiroki , Miura Yasuo
Published: September 2024

Background

Donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) targeting human leukocyte antigens (HLAs) substantially reduce the longevity of transplanted organs. Desensitization of DSA-positive renal transplant recipients is achieved through intravenous administration of immunoglobulin (IVIg). However, the presence and detectability of anti-HLA antibodies in IVIg preparations following administration are not fully understood. We aimed to assess whether immunoglobulin preparations contain anti-HLA antibodies that can be detected as passive antibodies when administered into the body.

Methods

We evaluated 3 immunoglobulin preparations from different pharmaceutical companies, using anti-HLA class I and II antibody specificity tests and immunocomplex capture fluorescence analysis (ICFA).

Results

Direct testing for anti-HLA antibodies resulted in high background errors, particularly for Venoglobulin. Diluting Venoglobulin to physiological concentrations revealed the presence of anti-HLA class I antibodies; however, no common alleles were found between the specificity identification test and ICFA.

For Glovenin and Venilon, anti-HLA class I and II antibodies were detected; however, variability was observed across different test reagent lots. Moreover, dilution of the globulin formulation revealed a prozone phenomenon.

Conclusion

The administration of IVIg complicates the accurate detection of anti-HLA antibodies, underscoring the need for careful interpretation of test results post-IVIg administration.
The Experiences of Early Career Music Therapists in a Music-based Peer Supervision Group: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Edmonds Lauren
Published: September 2024

In this study, five early career music therapists participated in a music-based peer supervision group. The participants engaged in improvisational, receptive, and recreative methods over the course of six sessions based on their presenting needs that day. Following each session, the participants completed a reflective journal that focused on aspects of their personal and professional identity. The researcher analyzed the journal entries at the conclusion of the sessions and identified three overarching themes. The themes revealed that the group provided a unique sense of community, helped them confront challenging emotions experienced both personally and professionally, and fostered a reemergence of musical self. The findings were consistent with existing literature about the unique needs early career music therapists face. Recommendations for further investigation and how this data applies to clinical practice are reviewed.
Superior probabilistic computing using operationally stable probabilistic-bit constructed by manganite nanowire
Authors: Wang Yadi , Chen Bin , Gao Wenping , Ye Biying , Niu Chang , Wang Wenbin , Zhu Yinyan , Yu Weichao , Guo Hangwen , Shen Jian
Published: September 2024

Probabilistic computing has emerged as a viable approach to treat optimization problems. To achieve superior computing performance, the key aspect during computation is massive sampling and tuning on the probability states of each probabilistic bit (p-bit), demanding its high stability under extensive operations. Here, we demonstrate a p-bit constructed by manganite nanowire that shows exceptionally high stability. The p-bit contains an electronic domain that fluctuates between metallic (low resistance) and insulating (high resistance) states near its transition temperature. The probability for the two states can be directly controlled by nano-ampere electrical current. Under extensive operations, the standard error of its probability values is less than 1.3%. Simulations show that our operationally stable p-bit plays the key role to achieve correct inference in Bayesian network by strongly suppressing the relative error, displaying the potential for superior computing performance. Our p-bit also serves as high quality random number generator without extra data-processing, beneficial for cryptographic applications.
Iatrogenic acute type A aortic dissection during catheter ablation for idiopathic ventricular premature contraction
Authors: Ishida Shinichi , Takemoto Yoshio , Kimata Ryutaro , Yagami Kei
Published: September 2024

Acute aortic dissection type A during cardiac catheterization has been reported as a rare but fatal complication. We present a case of acute aortic dissection type A occurring during catheter manipulation in the ascending aorta during mapping of ventricular premature contraction via the retrograde approach. In the present case, transthoracic echocardiography showed no pericardial effusion and no flap of the aorta, but intracardiac echo clearly showed the flap. Enhanced computed tomography revealed the aortic dissection, which extended from the ascending aorta to the bilateral common iliac artery, and the false lumen was thrombosed completely. Emergent surgery was performed and the postoperative course was uneventful, and he was discharged with no complications. Aortic dissection is a rare complication of cardiac catheterization, and early detection could prevent a fatal outcome. It is important to detect the signs and symptoms as quickly as possible and perform various diagnostic examinations.
Phenotypic presentation of MEN1 c.758delC (p.Ser253Cysfs*28) pathogenic variant: a case report
Authors: Mancini Antonio , Concolino Paola , Vergani Edoardo , Oliva Alessandro , Macis Giuseppe , Traini Emanuela , Rossi Esther Diana
Published: September 2024

MEN1 is a rare syndrome caused by mutations in the MEN1 gene. We describe a clinical case of MEN1 syndrome associated with a recently discovered pathogenic mutation of MEN1 gene. A 32-year-old man with a history of osteopenia, nephrolithiasis, hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia, impaired fasting glucose, and asthenia was admitted to our outpatient unit. Primary hyperparathyroidism, sustained by three hyperplastic parathyroid glands, was diagnosed. Prolactin- and GH-secreting adenomas were ruled out. After undergoing subtotal parathyroidectomy, the patient was diagnosed with non-functioning pituitary adenoma, three pancreatic lesions, and Cushing syndrome sustained by left adrenal adenoma. The patient underwent left adrenal surgery; somatostatin analogue lanreotide was started for the pancreatic lesions; the pituitary adenoma, being small and non-secreting, was not treated. A genetic test was performed to confirm the diagnosis of MEN1 syndrome, finding an association with a recently discovered mutation: the (NM_130799.2):c.758delC (p.Ser253Cysfs*28) in exon 4.
Right pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum, pneumoretroperitoneum, and subcutaneous emphysema as rare complications after ERCP: a case report
Authors: Bayat Ghassan , Haneyah Farah , Merjaneh Laura , Haddad Sultaneh , Thaljah Aboud , Zambakjian Jack , Ghabally Mike
Published: September 2024

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography is a complex procedure with a significant risk of severe consequences. We herein report a 56-year-old Middle Eastern female who was diagnosed with acute ascending cholangitis. Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography was performed with gallstone absorption and stent implanting. However, the patient developed significant pneumothorax; pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum, pneumoretroperitoneum, and subcutaneous emphysema of the abdomen, chest, right arm and shoulder, face and right orbital area. Radiological studies demonstrated no evidence of perforation on bowel obstruction. The patient was treated successfully with good results and post-operative follow-up was unremarkable. In conclusion, air leakage following endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography without evidence of perforation is extremely rare. While pneumothorax development usually requires thoracostomy; pneumomediastinum, pneumoperitoneum, pneumoretroperitoneum, and subcutaneous emphysema are usually treated conservatively.
Clinicopathologic and molecular characterization of stages II-IV gastric cancer with Claudin 18.2 expression
Authors: Kwak Yoonjin , Kim Tae-Yong , Nam Soo Kyung , Hwang Hye Jung , Han Daeyoung , Oh Hyeon Jeong , Kong Seong-Ho , Park Do Joong , Oh Do-Youn , Lee Hyuk-Joon , Im Seock-Ah , Yang Han-Kwang , Lee Hye Seung
Published: September 2024

Background

Claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2) is a promising target for targeted therapies in gastric cancer (GC). This study investigated the prevalence of CLDN18.2 expression in patients with stages II-IV GC or gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) adenocarcinoma and its correlation with clinicopathologic features and other crucial GC biomarkers.

Methods

We enrolled 1000 patients diagnosed with stages II-IV GC after surgical treatment. Immunohistochemistry for CLDN18 (43-14A clone), PD-L1 (22C3 pharmDx), HER2, and FGFR2 was performed. CLDN18.2 positivity was defined as moderate-to-strong (2+/3+) membranous staining in ≥75% of tumor cells. CLDN18.2 expression was compared with biomarker expression, Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) association and microsatellite instability status, and clinicopathologic features.

Result

CLDN18.2 was positive in 34.4% of the patients. CLDN18.2 positivity was significantly higher in the middle and upper thirds than in the lower third gastric location (P < .001), but there was no correlation with age, sex, or stage (P > .05). CLDN18.2 positivity was rare (2.8%) in mucinous adenocarcinoma but frequent (90.9%) in a majority of gastric carcinomas with lymphoid stroma. CLDN18.2 positivity was higher in EBV-associated (P < .001) and PD-L1-positive (PD-L1 CPS ≥ 5) GC (P = .014) but lower in HER2 positive GC (P = .005). CLDN18.2 positivity was not significantly associated with overall survival and disease-free survival.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive evaluation of CLDN18.2 status and its correlation with the clinicopathologic characteristics of patients with stages II-IV GC in Korea and with crucial biomarkers. It may be valuable for guiding future drug development, expanding treatment options, and ultimately improving patient outcomes in GC.
Highlights of ASCO 2024
Authors: Neugut Alfred I , Bates Susan E
Published: September 2024

Highlights from the ASCO annual meeting are presented.
An electronic energy compensation method for flattening the energy response of SiPM-GGAG:Ce,B based gamma detector
Authors: Srivastava Saurabh , Mitra Pratip , Kumar Amit , Singh Sunil , Tyagi Mohit , Kumar Aerattukkara Vinod , Topkar Anita
Published: September 2024

The energy response of gross gamma dose rate monitors needs to be flat in order to prevent overestimation of dose at low gamma energies. In this paper, a discriminator threshold modulation based electronic energy compensation algorithm has been proposed for SiPM-scintillator based gamma detectors. Theoretical simulation studies were carried out in order to optimize the parameters of the periodic ramp voltage used for modulation of the discriminator threshold of a SiPM-GGAG:Ce,B based gamma dose rate monitor. A customized threshold modulation circuit and signal processing electronics were developed for this gamma detector. For experimentally optimizing the parameters, the energy response studies of the detector, with and without the discriminator threshold modulation, were carried out. With the optimized parameters for a periodic ramp threshold, the count rates for 241Am (60 keV) and 60Co (1173 and 1332 keV) were observed to be within ±30% of the count rate obtained for 137Cs (662 keV). Using the electronic energy compensation techniques presented in this paper, a flat energy response of the SiPM-scintillator gamma detector for the energy range of 60 keV to 1.5 MeV could be achieved.
The LGBT Politics of Religious Nones
Authors: Schwadel Philip , Burke Kelsy , Kazyak Emily
Published: September 2024

Although nonreligious Americans are more likely than religious Americans to support LGBT rights, we know little about variation among the nonreligious. Research points to large political differences among nonreligious Americans, which could extend to views of LGBT rights. Using nationally representative survey data, we find that atheists are sometimes more supportive of LGBT rights than are agnostics; atheists and agnostics are consistently more supportive than the “nothing in particular” (NIPs); and atheists, agnostics, and NIPs are more supportive than most religious Americans. Political orientation partially mediates these associations but robust differences among the nonreligious and between the nonreligious and various religious affiliates remain after controlling for politics. We conclude by noting that just as evangelical Protestants occupy a unique position among the religiously affiliated, atheists are distinct from other nonreligious Americans in their views of LGBT rights, while NIPs more closely align with the religiously affiliated.
Assembly and Evaluation of a Confocal Microscopy Image Analysis Pipeline Useful in Revealing the Secrets of Plant-Fungal Interactions
Authors: Nelson Ashley C. , Kariyawasam Gayan K. , Wyatt Nathan A. , Li Jinling , Haueisen Janine , Stukenbrock Eva H. , Borowicz Pawel , Liu Zhaohui , Friesen Timothy L.
Published: September 2024

The ability of laser scanning confocal microscopy to generate high-contrast 2D and 3D images has become essential in studying plant-fungal interactions. Techniques such as visualization of native fluorescence, fluorescent protein tagging of microbes, green fluorescent protein (GFP)/red fluorescent protein (RFP)-fusion proteins, and fluorescent labeling of plant and fungal proteins have been widely used to aid in these investigations. Use of fluorescent proteins has several pitfalls, including variability of expression in planta and the requirement of gene transformation. Here, we used the unlabeled pathogens Parastagonospora nodorum, Pyrenophora teres f. teres, and Cercospora beticola infecting wheat, barley, and sugar beet, respectively, to show the utility of a staining and imaging pipeline that uses propidium iodide (PI), which stains RNA and DNA, and wheat germ agglutinin labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate (WGA-FITC), which stains chitin, to visualize fungal colonization of plants. This pipeline relies on the use of KOH to remove the cutin layer of the leaf, increasing its permeability, allowing the different stains to penetrate and effectively bind to their targets, resulting in a consistent visualization of cellular structures. To expand the utility of this pipeline, we used the staining techniques in conjunction with machine learning to analyze fungal biomass through volume analysis, as well as quantifying nuclear breakdown, an early indicator of programmed cell death (PCD). This pipeline is simple to use, robust, consistent across host and fungal species, and can be applied to most plant-fungal interactions. Therefore, this pipeline can be used to characterize model systems as well as nonmodel interactions where transformation is not routine.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2024.
Resistance to the Insect Vector Bemisia tabaci Enhances the Robustness and Durability of Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus Resistance Conferred by Ty-1
Authors: Koeda Sota , Fortes Isabel M. , Rodríguez-López Maria J. , Fernández-Muñoz Rafael , Moriones Enrique
Published: September 2024

Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is a begomovirus (genus Begomovirus, family Geminiviridae) transmitted persistently by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. It causes tomato yellow leaf curl disease (TYLCD), resulting in significant yield losses worldwide. TYLCD is controlled mainly by using F1 hybrid tomato cultivars harboring the TYLCV resistance gene Ty-1. However, infected Ty-1-bearing tomato plants accumulate viral DNA, which may eventually lead to the emergence of a resistance-breaking TYLCV variant. Recently, a B. tabaci-resistant tomato line derived from the introgression of type IV leaf glandular trichomes and acylsucrose secretion from wild tomato (Solanum pimpinellifolium) was shown to effectively control the spread of TYLCV. In this study, we combined B. tabaci resistance and Ty-1-based TYLCV resistance to increase the robustness and durability of the TYLCD resistance mediated by Ty-1 in tomato plants. Specifically, we characterized and used a Group 2-like isolate of the Israel strain of TYLCV (TYLCV-IL-G2) that contributes to TYLCD epidemics in southeastern Spain. A comparison with isolates of the previously identified TYLCV variant revealed TYLCV-IL-G2 has a similar host range, but it induces a slightly more severe TYLCD in Ty-1-bearing tomato plants. Moreover, we demonstrated that acylsucrose-producing B. tabaci-resistant tomato plants can limit the spread of TYLCV-IL-G2 better than a near-isogenic line lacking type IV trichomes and unable to secrete acylsucrose. Pyramiding Ty-1-based TYLCV resistance and B. tabaci resistance provided by type IV glandular trichomes helped to decrease the effects of TYLCV on Ty-1-bearing tomato plants as well as the likelihood of TYLCV evolution in infected plants.
Plant-Parasitic Nematode Genera Associated with Date Palm in Central Iraq
Authors: Al-Khafaji Riyadh Talib , Smiley Richard W. , Al-Khafaji Ahmed Riyadh
Published: September 2024

A survey of plant-parasitic nematode genera associated with roots of mature date palm trees was conducted in central Iraq to study their occurrence, population density, and geographical distribution. This study in Baghdad, Babil, Diyala, Karbela, Najaf, and Wasit governorates was conducted from 2019 to 2023, during the months from October to April. A total of 150 soil and root samples were gathered from 46 fields, and plant-parasitic nematodes were extracted and morphologically identified to genus level. Eleven genera of plant-parasitic nematodes were detected in the declining order of frequency: Tylenchorhynchus spp. (20%) in Baghdad, Babil, Diyala, Karbala, and Najaf; Meloidogyne spp. (17.3%) in Baghdad, Babil, Diyala, Najaf, and Wasit; Paratylenchus spp. (16%) in Diyala and Najaf; Helicotylenchus spp. (12%) in Baghdad, Diyala, Najaf, and Wasit; Tylenchus spp. (12%) in Baghdad, Babil, Diyala, Najaf, and Wasit; Aphelenchoides spp. (6.7%) in Babil, Diyala, Karbala, and Wasit; Pratylenchus spp. (4%) in Baghdad, Diyala, Najaf, and Wasit; Ditylenchus spp. (3.3%) in Babil and Najaf; Hoplolaimus spp. (1.3%) in Diyala; and Heterodera spp. and Scutellonema spp. (0.7% each) in Diyala. Population density was low in Baghdad. High population density was recorded for Meloidogyne spp. (37,625 J2/1,000 cm3 of soil) and the lowest population density occurred with Paratylenchus spp. (20 nematodes/1,000 cm3 of soil) in Diyala (Al-Jadidah). This appears to be the first report of occurrences of plant-parasitic nematodes of date palm in central Iraq.
Chemical Efficacy Field Trials for Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci (Angular Leaf Spot) in Nicotiana tabacum
Authors: Webb A. B. , Bailey W. A.
Published: September 2024

Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci tox– is the causal agent of angular leaf spot in dark tobacco. Since 2015, angular leaf spot has become the most significant foliar disease of dark tobacco production in Kentucky and Tennessee. Dark tobacco producers utilize streptomycin sulfate as their primary chemical control for the management of this bacterial disease. Resistance to streptomycin sulfate in P. syringae pv. tabaci isolates from dark tobacco fields in western Kentucky was first observed in 2015. Field trials were developed to evaluate the efficacy of alternative active ingredients compared with streptomycin sulfate. Field trials were conducted in 2020, 2021, and 2022 to evaluate the efficacy of streptomycin sulfate, laminarin, cuprous oxide, Reynoutria sachalinensis, peroxyacetic acid, polyoxin D zinc salt, Ulocladium oudemansii strain U3, and acibenzolar-S-methyl for control of angular leaf spot. In all trials, dark tobacco variety KT D8LC was utilized, as this tobacco variety had previously shown high susceptibility to angular leaf spot. There are no dark tobacco varieties resistant to angular leaf spot. Plots in all years were inoculated with a streptomycin sulfate-sensitive isolate of P. syringae pv. tabaci. Data analysis showed that the streptomycin sulfate performed similarly to most other treatments. No treatment completely eliminated this bacterial disease, but based on these results, cuprous oxide and U. oudemansii strain U3 are suitable for management of angular leaf spot. Implementing a spray regimen with varying active ingredients and modes of action is key in preventing pathogen resistance and decreasing the intensity of angular leaf spot.
Green carbon and the chemical industry of the future
Authors: Sheldon Roger A.
Published: September 2024

The pressing need to mitigate climate change and drastically reduce environmental pollution and loss of biodiversity has precipitated a so-called energy transition aimed at the decarbonization of energy and defossilization of the chemical industry. The goal is a carbon-neutral (net-zero) society driven by sustainable energy and a circular bio-based economy relying on renewable biomass as the raw material. It will involve the use of green carbon, defined as carbon derived from terrestrial or aquatic biomass or organic waste, including carbon dioxide and methane emissions. It will also necessitate the accompanying use of green hydrogen that is generated by electrolysis of water using a sustainable source of energy, e.g. solar, wind or nuclear. Ninety per cent of the industrial chemicals produced in oil refineries are industrial monomers that constitute the precursors of a large variety of polymers, many of which are plastics. Primary examples of the latter are polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and polystyrene. Polyolefins are extremely difficult to recycle back to the olefin monomers and discarded polyolefin plastics generally end up as the plastic waste that is responsible for the degradation of our natural habitat. By contrast, waste biomass, such as the lignocellulose contained in forestry residues and agricultural waste, constitutes a renewable feedstock for the sustainable production of industrial monomers and the corresponding polymers. The latter could be the same polyolefins that are currently produced in oil refineries but a more attractive long-term alternative is to produce polyesters and polyamides that can be recycled back to the original monomers: a paradigm shift to a truly bio-based circular economy on the road to a net-zero chemical industry.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Towards a unified carbon accounting landscape
Authors: McDonald Lewis J. , Hernandez Galvan Jose Luis , Emelue Chukwudi , Pinto Ariane S. S. , Mehta Neha , Ibn-Mohammed Taofeeq , Fender Thomas , Radcliffe Jonathan , Choudhary Alok , McManus Marcelle C.
Published: September 2024

The overarching purpose of carbon accounting is to reduce carbon emissions to meet net-zero targets and minimize the impact of climate change. However, the plethora of methods and approaches used means that products and systems sometimes cannot easily be compared. The mix of regional and life cycle-based systems can mean that we lack global oversight of our emissions and impact. In some situations where a regional approach is used, industry/business/regions are incentivized to reduce their own/territorial emissions, which can mean that an optimal global solution is not adopted. Countries where grid emissions are higher can be selected for production because it reduces regional (not global) carbon levels. Furthermore, these can be areas where the climate impact may be felt the most: not the just transition we aspire to. Our work provides an analysis of the current system together with its challenges and limitations, paving the way towards a more unified framework to create climate justice together with transparent and comparable accounting methodology for industry and regions alike.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
An alternative to petrochemicals: biomass electrovalorization
Authors: Mukadam Zamaan , Scott Soren B. , Titirici Maria Magdalena , Stephens Ifan E. L.
Published: September 2024

Replacing petrochemicals with refined waste biomass as a sustainable chemical source has become an attractive option to lower global carbon emissions. Popular methods of refining lignocellulosic waste biomass use thermochemical processes, which have significant environmental downsides. Using electrochemistry instead would overcome many of these downsides, directly driving chemical reactions with renewable electricity and revolutionizing the way many chemicals are produced today. This review mainly focuses on two furanic platform chemicals that are produced from the dehydration of cellulose, 5-hydroxymethylfurfural and furfural, which can be electrochemically reduced or oxidized to replace fuels and monomers that today are obtained from petrochemicals. Critical parameters such as electrode materials and electrolyte pH are discussed in relation to their influence on conversion efficiency and product distribution.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Contributions of heterogeneous catalysis enabling resource efficiency and circular economy
Authors: Mürtz Sonja D. , Palkovits Regina
Published: September 2024

Our industry today is predominantly based on linear value chains. Raw materials are extracted from primary sources, processed into products, used, and disposed of at the end of their life cycle. This linear economy causes a wide range of negative environmental impacts owing to the resulting greenhouse gas emissions and pollution of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Closed carbon cycles and climate-neutral energy production are essential for the production not only of fuels but also of all chemicals, including plastics and fertilizers, to counteract climate change and further damage to the environment. In this regard, this article discusses the importance of heterogeneous catalysts for selected technologies associated with this transformation of the resource base and energy supply. It discusses the technological framework conditions of a net CO
2
-neutral industry, with a focus on electrocatalytic water-splitting for hydrogen production, as well as the catalytic challenges of production of chemicals for the whole value chain using biomass, CO
2
and plastic waste as raw materials.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
The importance of both catalyst and process design in unlocking sustainable carbon feedstocks through syngas
Authors: Rowsell Elizabeth , Massingberd-Mundy Felicity , Walker Andy , Linthwaite Mark , Skoufa Zinovia , Coe Andrew , Shapcott Stephen , Paterson James
Published: September 2024

As part of its move towards net zero, the chemical industry, over time, will transition away from fossil-based chemical feedstocks towards more sustainable, ‘green’ carbon—biomass, recycled waste and captured carbon dioxide. One gateway to transforming these feedstocks into the vital chemicals and fuels society relies on is via synthesis gas or ‘syngas’—a gaseous mixture of chemical building blocks (H
2
, CO and CO
2
). While today the majority of syngas is produced via steam reforming of natural gas, commercially available technologies are enabling syngas production and transformation from sustainable feedstocks. The optimization of sustainable syngas technologies would not be possible without the integrated development of both catalyst and process technology and the associated skills in chemistry and chemical engineering. This paper covers three example technologies that are unlocking the role of syngas as a gateway to sustainable fuels and chemicals and highlights the innovative developments in catalyst and process design that have enabled their optimization and commercialization.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Carbon dioxide and hydrogen as building blocks for a sustainable interface of energy and chemistry
Authors: Leitner Walter
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen as energy vector from renewable sources and carbon dioxide as carbon source are central elements of a future sustainable interface between energy and chemistry. While often viewed merely as “substitutes” for fossil resources, the current article discusses opportunities to open new synthetic pathways and to generate novel molecular architectures for the delivery of the same or even improved functionalities expected from chemical products. Catalysis is the key science and technology in this endeavour and three general principles for the desing of catalytic systems are proposed as guidelines for fundamental research.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Alkali metal cations enhance CO
2
reduction by a Co molecular complex in a bipolar membrane electrolyzer
Authors: Siritanaratkul Bhavin , Khan Mohammad Danish , Yu Eileen H. , Cowan Alexander J.
Published: September 2024

The electrochemical reduction of CO
2
is a promising pathway for converting CO
2
into valuable fuels and chemicals. The local environment at the cathode of CO
2
electrolyzers plays a key role in determining activity and selectivity, but currently some mechanisms are still under debate. In particular, alkali metal cations have been shown to enhance the selectivity of metal catalysts, but their role remains less explored for molecular catalysts especially in high-current electrolyzers. Here, we investigated the enhancement effects of cations (Na
+
, K
+
, Cs
+
) on Co phthalocyanine (CoPc) in a state-of-the-art reverse-biased bipolar membrane electrolyzer. When added to the anolyte, these cations increased the Faradaic efficiency for CO, except in the case of Na
+
in which the effect was transient, but the effects are convoluted with the transport process through the membrane. Alternatively, these cations can also be added directly to the cathode as chloride salts, allowing the use of a pure H
2
O anolyte feed, leading to sustained improved CO selectivity (61% at 100 mA cm
−2
after 24 h). Our results show that cation addition is a simple yet effective strategy for improving the product selectivity of molecular electrocatalysts, opening up new avenues for tuning their local environment for CO
2
reduction.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
CO
2
hydrogenation to methanol over Pt functionalized Hf-UiO-67 versus Zr-UiO-67
Authors: Sannes Dag Kristian , Pulumati Sri Harsha , Skúlason Egill , Nova Ainara , Olsbye Unni
Published: September 2024

Sustainable methanol formation from CO
2
/H
2
is potentially a key process in the post-fossil chemical industry. In this study, Hf- and Zr-based metal-organic framework (MOF) materials with UiO-67 topology, functionalized with Pt nanoparticles, have been tested for CO
2
hydrogenation at 30 bar and 170–240°C. The highest methanol formation rate, 14 mol
methanol
mol
Pt
−1
h
−1
, was obtained over a Hf-based catalyst, compared with the maximum of 6.2 mol
methanol
mol
Pt
−1
h
−1
for the best Zr-based analogue. However, changing the node metal did not significantly affect product distribution or apparent activation energy for methanol formation (44–52 kJ mol
−1
), strongly indicating that the higher activity of the Hf-based analogues is associated with a higher number of active sites. Both catalysts showed stable catalytic performance during testing under kinetic conditions, but the addition of 2 vol% water to the feed induced catalyst deactivation, in particular the Hf-MOFs. Interestingly, mainly methanol and methane formation rates decreased, while CO formation rates were less affected by deactivation. No direct correlation was found between catalytic stability and framework stability (crystallinity, specific surface area). Experimental and computational studies suggest that water adsorption strength to the MOF node may affect the relative catalytic stability of Hf-UiO-67-Pt versus Zr-UiO-67-Pt methanol catalysts.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
The potential of green ammonia in the de-fossilization of the steel, glass and cement industries
Authors: El-Kadi Joseph , Kinhal Krishna V. , Liedtke Luc , Pinzón-Ramírez Juan Luis , Smith Collin , Torrente-Murciano Laura
Published: September 2024

The development of new technologies for the synthesis of green ammonia using exclusively hydrogen from water and nitrogen from air in processes driven exclusively by renewable energy is poised to decarbonize the production of this important molecule for the production of green fertilizers as well as offering a carbon-free vector for the long-term storage of renewable energy. In this article, we explore and quantify the CO
2
emission reduction potential of green ammonia, evaluating how it can facilitate the decarbonization of other hard-to-abate industrial processes such as steel, glass and cement industries. Green ammonia can be used as a direct replacement of fossil fuels used as energy sources in the different processes. In addition, green ammonia can facilitate the electrification of the processes (so-called Power-to-X) by storing renewable energy in the long term to balance a decarbonized grid against intermittent renewable energy supplies.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Influence of Pd, Pt and Au nanoparticles in the photocatalytic performance of N-TiO
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support under visible light
Authors: Medina J. C. , Warren Eleanor , Morgan David , Gow Isla E. , Edwards Jennifer
Published: September 2024

In this article, we report the modification and photocatalytic evaluation of commercial TiO
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-P25 under visible light for methyl orange (MO) dye degradation under visible light. The activity of materials doped with N, Pd, Pt and Au on to the TiO
2
-P25 was evaluated, with optimal photocatalytic performance achieved using Au nanoparticles doped on an N-functionalized titania surface. X-ray diffraction (XRD), physical nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherm curves, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), diffuse reflectance spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) were used to study the structural and textural properties of the samples. The chemical species present in the bulk and surface of the catalysts were identified using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and microwave plasma-atomic emission spectroscopy. The results show that Au/N-TiO
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photocatalyst presents a remarkable enhanced activity for MO dye degradation, under visible light illumination, reaching 100% after 4 h. The enhanced photocatalytic activity using this composite is attributable to the well-dispersed and small size of Au nanoparticles, large surface area, reduction of band-gap energy and the interaction between nitrogen and Au which promoted a synergistic effect.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Mission-oriented innovation for sustainable polymers in liquid formulation
Authors: Massey-Brooker Anju , Conway Rowan
Published: September 2024

Industrial chemical producers and formulators are increasingly conscious of their responsibility in stewarding planetary resources and minimizing harm to the environment. In 2019, the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) engaged an industry task force from across the value chain to drive technical research to classify a new class of polymer—polymers in liquid formulation (PLFs). Building on this, the task force called for step change in sustainability practices for PLFs and instigated a design and development process to identify research themes and priorities that could accelerate innovation in this area. However, a key challenge was that as a novel classification, PLFs were largely unknown outside the chemistry community and entirely absent from the mainstream research agenda. To establish the demand-pull requirements of the value chain for sustainable PLFs, the RSC used a ‘mission-oriented’ innovation framework to enable the taskforce to co-design an ideal-type portfolio of research and innovation projects, and to set out a realistic roadmap for transition. This perspective article presents a summary of the activities carried out by the task force in its pursuit of mission-oriented innovation for PLFs and describes the strategic design method used to enable cross-value chain consensus on action for PLF sustainability, build system-wide innovation ecosystems and explore common-good scenarios.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future’.
Re-analyzedAPOL1kidney data support new ethics of ‘race’
Authors: Burke Cyril O. , Tanzer Joshua Ray , Toffaletti John G. , Burke Leanne M.
Published: September 2024

OBJECTIVES

Research on ‘racial’ differences and racialized diseases often stresses genetics over social conditions, perhaps because some medical journals limit (or exclude) as social ‘Commentary’ discussion of ‘race’ as a proxy for social determinants of health. Yet, anthropology research shows that ‘race’ is socially constructed. From before birth, persistent US ‘racial’ segregation racializes health, education, employment, and access.

We hypothesized that selective recruitment into US military service, equal opportunity for military training and jobs, and earned access to Veterans Administration Healthcare could mitigate ‘racial’ differences created by racialized early-life deprivations and harms (i.e., social determinants of health). We examined veteran status and the starkest ‘racial’ disparity in healthcare—chronic kidney disease.

METHODS

First, we defined terms to ensure cross-cultural clarity by orienting international colleagues to the semantics of socially constructed ‘race’ (in Europe) and overt and subtle racialization of health (in the US). Second, we removed ‘race correction’ from estimated glomerular filtration rate and kidney failure under more equal conditions of US veterans. Third, we used data re-analysis and close examination of social cofactors to suggest alternative mechanisms for links between socially constructed ‘race’, apolipoprotein L1 gene variants, and racialized kidney disease.

RESULTS

Our research found no ‘racial’ disparity in kidney failure under more equal social conditions and that geographically localized “ancestry markers” may proxy for ‘race’. ‘Colorism’ may be associated with apolipoprotein L1 variants linked to ‘racial’ (e.g., pigmentary) genes.

CONCLUSIONS

Under equal conditions, comparable outcomes should be the expected norm for all, regardless of socially constructed ‘race’, ethnicity, or nationality. Disparity between socially constructed categories implies disparate social conditions. International collaboration to discourage misuse of socially constructed ‘race’ in medical care and research is an actionable Population Health initiative with potentially high impact but low effort and cost.

STRENGTHS OF THIS STUDY

Reminds readers of cross-cultural conflicts in socially constructed ‘race’.

Introduces international observers to racialization of health in the US.

Re-analyzes socially constructed ‘race’ under more equal conditions.

Applies new ethics, recommended by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, to older research on socially constructed ‘race’.

Abstract Figure
Automating Individualized Patient Notification of Drug Recalls: Complex Challenges
Authors: Gadgil Meghana D. , Pavlakos Rose , Carini Simona , Turner Brian , Elder Ileana , Hess William , Houle Lisa , Huff Lavonia , Johanson Elaine , Jones Carole , Liang Daphne , Ogonowski Pamela , Phipps Joshua , Peryea Tyler , Sim Ida
Published: September 2024

Background

Consumer-level drug recalls usually require action by individual patients. FDA has public-facing outlets to inform consumers and healthcare professionals about drug safety information including recalls, but consumers may not be aware of them. Prescribers are not notified about which of their patients are affected. The process may lead some patients to stop taking their medications.AimTo leverage the FDA’s Healthy Citizen prototype platform, which provides information about recalls, to automatically notify patients of relevant recalls.

Method

We developed and evaluated an electronic notification system in the Primary Care and Cardiology practices at a large urban, academic medical center. Using structured interviews, we assessed qualitative feedback on the system and portal messaging from a convenience sample of 9 patients.

Results

Program DescriptionThe healthcare portal scanned the FDA Healthy Citizen Application Programming Interface nightly to detect new recalls, identified patients who had those medications in their electronic health record (EHR) medication list, and sent them a message through the EHR patient portal with a link to a customized FDA information display.Program EvaluationThe system was technically functional, but it was not possible to trace a medication prescription from the EHR to specific lot numbers dispensed to that patient by a community pharmacy.

Discussion

Lack of an accurate electronic audit trail from prescription to dispensed medication precludes clinical deployment of automated drug recall notification.
In vivo assessment of cardiac radiofrequency ablation in a large-animal model using photoacoustic-ultrasound imaging
Authors: Mathuria Nilesh , Vishwanath Krithik , Fallon Blake C. , Martino Antonio , Brero Giorgio , Willson Richard C. , Valderrabano Miguel , Filgueira Carly S. , Bouchard Richard R.
Published: September 2024

One of the fundamental unmet clinical needs within cardiac electrophysiology is intraoperative assessment of catheter ablation, which can lead to recurrent arrhythmias and subsequent complications if ineffective. This work demonstrates photoacoustic imaging (PAI) of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) lesions in anin vivoswine model (n=3). Spectral unmixing of PAI data provides local myocardial characterization (e.g., oxygen saturation & tissue ablation) by overlaying unmixed PAI images with B-mode ultrasound imaging (PAI/US), with the latter providing anatomical context. Based on stained gross pathology, areas of central tissue necrosis coincided with increases in unmixed ablated regions of the myocardium. An average contrast-to-noise ratio of 2.8±0.2 confirmed lesion detectability, while the lesion dimensions quantified from PAI and pathology did not present significant differences.In vivoPAI of RFA lesions to determine ablation characteristics could lead to a paradigm shift in catheter ablation assessment and improve clinical outcomes.