bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene Nanoplatelet Exoskeleton on Polyurethane Foam to Produce Flame‐Retardant, Piezoresistive, and Electromagnetic Interference Shielding Surfaces
Authors: Weldemhret Teklebrahan Gebrekrstos , Lee Dong‐Woo , M.N. Prabhakar , Iqbal Aamir , Koo Chong Min , Park Yong Tae , Song Jung Il
Published: August 2023

Polyurethane foam (PUF)’s porous structure, light weight, flexibility, and low‐cost properties make it useful in various cutting‐edge technologies. However, time‐consuming, costly, and complicated surface modification methods severely hinder its commercial applications. Herein, an ultrafast, simple, and cost‐effective surface modification method based on the evaporation of a low boiling point solvent to prepare a multifunctional graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)‐decorated PUF (GNP@PUF) is proposed. Due to the passive heat barrier of GNP sheets, the resulting sponge exhibits excellent flame retardancy by reducing the critical fire retardancy metrics, that is, peak heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke release by 72%, 50%, and 81%, respectively. In addition, GNP@PUF can function as a piezoresistive sensor and electromagnetic interference (EMI)‐shielding material. As a piezoresistive sensor, it exhibits a wide‐compressive pressure (2.4–112 kPa)/strain (5–70%) range and ultra‐fast response/relaxation time (48/35 ms), wide‐stretching strain (5–100%) range, and it can detect minute human motions by being attached to different parts of the human body. Meanwhile, the composite foam displays good absorption‐dominant EMI shielding performance (≈38 dB), possibly due to conductive dissipation and multiple reflections/scattering of EM waves inside the 3D conductive graphene network. This study provides a simple coating technique for developing multifunctional lightweight foam materials.
Cell Granularity Reflects Immune Cell Function and Enables Selection of Lymphocytes with Superior Attributes for Immunotherapy
Authors: Wu Tongjin , Tan Joel Heng Loong , Sin Wei‐Xiang , Luah Yen Hoon , Tan Sue Yee , Goh Myra , Birnbaum Michael E. , Chen Qingfeng , Cheow Lih Feng
Published: August 2023

In keeping with the rule of “form follows function”, morphological aspects of a cell can reflect its role. Here, it is shown that the cellular granularity of a lymphocyte, represented by its intrinsic side scatter (SSC), is a potent indicator of its cell state and function. The granularity of a lymphocyte increases from naïve to terminal effector state. High‐throughput cell‐sorting yields a SSChigh population that can mediate immediate effector functions, and a highly prolific SSClow population that can give rise to the replenishment of the memory pool. CAR‐T cells derived from the younger SSClow population possess desirable attributes for immunotherapy, manifested by increased naïve‐like cells and stem cell memory (TSCM)‐like cells together with a balanced CD4/CD8 ratio, as well as enhanced target‐killing in vitro and in vivo. Altogether, lymphocyte segregation based on biophysical properties is an effective approach for label‐free selection of cells that share collective functions and can have important applications for cell‐based immunotherapies.
State‐dependent risky choices in primates: Variation in energy budget does not affect tufted capuchin monkeys' (Sapajus spp.) risky choices
Authors: Ciacci Filippo , Mayerhoff Stella , De Petrillo Francesca , Gastaldi Serena , Brosnan Sarah Frances , Addessi Elsa
Published: August 2023

Economic models predict that rational decision makers' choices between a constant, “safe” option and a variable, “risky” option leading, on average, to the same payoff, should be random. However, a wealth of research has revealed that, when faced with risky decisions, both human and nonhuman animals deviate from economic rationality. According to the risk‐sensitivity theory, individuals should prefer a safe option when they are in a positive energy state and a risky option when they are in a negative energy state. The abundance/risk hypothesis proposes that individuals should prefer risky options when diet quality exceeds their nutritional requirements. We tested how energy budget affects decision making under risk by presenting 22 capuchins belonging to two colonies (IT: N = 12, US: N = 10) with a risky choice task. Capuchins had to choose between a constant option (always four food items) and a variable option (one or seven food items with a 50% probability) in two conditions. In the Low‐energy condition capuchins were tested before their main meal, whereas in the High‐energy condition they were tested following a high‐caloric meal. In neither colony did we find a significant difference between conditions, suggesting that the energy budget did not affect risk preferences. However, we found differences between colonies in their general response to risky choices: US capuchins were more risk‐prone after selecting a safe option than a risky option and after selecting a bad (one food item) than a good (seven food items) risky option, whereas this did not hold true in IT capuchins. Furthermore, in the IT colony, males were more risk‐prone under the High‐energy condition compared to the Low‐energy condition. Subtle differences in individual characteristics, management conditions, or stochastic founder effects may be implied, with relevant consequences for the outcomes of research on risky decision‐making across laboratories.
Terminally Chlorinated and Thiophene‐linked Acceptor‐Donor‐Acceptor Structured 3D Acceptors with Versatile Processability for High‐efficiency Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Chen Hongbin , Kan Bin , Wang Peiran , Feng Wanying , Li Longyu , Zhang Shuchao , Chen Tianqi , Yang Yang , Duan Tainan , Yao Zhaoyang , Li Chenxi , Wan Xiangjian , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2023

To exploit the potential of our newly developed three‐dimensional (3D) dimerized acceptors, a series of chlorinated 3D acceptors (namely CH8‐3/4/5) were reported by precisely tuning the position of chlorine (Cl) atom. The introduction of Cl atom in central unit affects the molecular conformation. Whereas, by replacing fluorinated terminal groups (CH8‐3) with chlorinated terminal groups (CH8‐4 and CH8‐5), the red‐shift absorption and enhanced crystallization are achieved. Benefiting from these, all devices received promising power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) over 16 % as well as decent thermal/photo‐stabilities. Among them, PM6:CH8‐4 based device yielded a best PCE of 17.58 %. Besides, the 3D merits with multi alkyl chains enable their versatile processability during the device preparation. Impressive PCEs of 17.27 % and 16.23 % could be achieved for non‐halogen solvent processable devices prepared in glovebox and ambient, respectively. 2.88 cm2 modules also obtained PCEs over 13 % via spin‐coating and blade‐coating methods, respectively. These results are among the best performance of dimerized acceptors. The decent performance of CH8‐4 on small‐area devices, modules and non‐halogen solvent‐processed devices highlights the versatile processing capability of our 3D acceptors, as well as their potential applications in the future.
Low‐cost and Non‐flammable Eutectic Electrolytes for Advanced Zn‐I2 Batteries
Authors: Hao Junnan , Yuan Libei , Zhu Yilong , Bai Xiaowan , Ye Chao , Jiao Yan , Qiao Shi‐Zhang
Published: August 2023

As a burgeoning electrolyte system, eutectic electrolytes based on ZnCl2/Zn(CF3SO3)2/Zn(TFSI)2 have been widely proposed in advanced Zn‐I2 batteries; however, safety and cost concerns significantly limit their applications. Here, we report new‐type ZnSO4‐based eutectic electrolytes that are both safe and cost‐effective. Their universality is evident in various solvents of polyhydric alcohols, in which multiple −OH groups not only involve in Zn2+ solvation but also interact with water, resulting in the high stability of electrolytes. Taking propylene glycol‐based hydrated eutectic electrolyte as an example, it features significant advantages in non‐flammability and low price that is <1/200 cost of Zn(CF3SO3)2/Zn(TFSI)2‐based eutectic electrolytes. Moreover, its effectiveness in confining the shuttle effects of I2 cathode and side reactions of Zn anodes is evidenced, resulting in Zn‐I2 cells with high reversibility at 1 C and 91.4 % capacity remaining under 20 C. After scaling up to the pouch cell with a record mass loading of 33.3 mg cm−2, super‐high‐capacity retention of 96.7 % is achieved after 500 cycles, which exceeds other aqueous counterparts. This work significantly broadens the eutectic electrolyte family for advanced Zn battery design.
Accelerating Ethanol Complete Electrooxidation via Introducing Ethylene as the Precursor for the C−C Bond Splitting
Authors: Chen Teng , Xu Shen , Zhao Taotao , Zhou Xiaohang , Hu Jianqiang , Xu Xin , Liang Chenjia , Liu Min , Ding Weiping
Published: August 2023

The crucial issue restricting the application of direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) is the incomplete and sluggish electrooxidation of ethanol due to the chemically stable C−C bond thereof. Herein, a unique ethylene‐mediated pathway with a 100 % C1‐selectivity for ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) is proposed for the first time based on a well‐structured Pt/Al2O3@TiAl catalyst with cascade active sites. The electrochemical in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS) analysis disclose that ethanol is primarily dehydrated on the surface of Al2O3@TiAl and the derived ethylene is further oxidized completely on nanostructured Pt. X‐ray absorption and density functional theory (DFT) studies disclose the Al component doped in Pt nanocrystals can promote the EOR kinetics by lowering the reaction energy barriers and eliminating the poisonous species. Strikingly, Pt/Al2O3@TiAl exhibits a specific activity of 3.83 mA cm−2Pt, 7.4 times higher than that of commercial Pt/C and superior long‐term durability.
The Lucigenin Assay: Measuring Anion Transport in Lipid Vesicles**
Authors: Chvojka Matúš , Singh Anurag , Cataldo Alessio , Torres‐Huerta Aaron , Konopka Marcin , Šindelář Vladimír , Valkenier Hennie
Published: August 2023

Synthetic anion transporters are developed to transport anions across lipid membranes with the long‐term perspective of biological applications. The lucigenin assay is a popular tool to study their transport of chloride and other anions in liposomes. It relies on the quenching of the fluorescence of encapsulated lucigenin by anions, which can be monitored by fluorescence spectroscopy. This article provides a tutorial introduction to the practical use and understanding of the lucigenin assay. It describes in detail how to use this assay to monitor chloride/nitrate antiport in liposomes, process and interpret the data, and solve common issues. Variations of the assay enabling the investigation of the transport of other anions and transport mechanisms are discussed. Furthermore, a zwitterionic analogue of lucigenin is demonstrated to have advantages for use in experiments over longer time scales, as it does not leak out of the liposomes, or when studying chloride uniport, as it avoids interference from antiport with nitrate that is present in commercial lucigenin.
Various polymorphs of calcium carbonate and poly(ethylene) glycol as thermal energy storage materials
Authors: Ranjane Prathamesh , Deshpande Madhura , Kulkarni Prashant S.
Published: August 2023

The present study investigates, thermal properties of polyethylene glycol (PEG) and various polymorphs of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) as blends. The prepared calcite, aragonite, and vaterite forms of CaCO3 were confirmed by x‐ray diffraction (XRD). Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC) revealed that, PEG‐calcite blend (composition 40/60 wt%), exhibited maximum enthalpy (112.9 ± 0.87 J/g). Aragonite and vaterite blends of similar composition displayed lower enthalpies (73.7 ± 0.61 J/g and 61.3 ± 0.75 J/g), which can be attributed to irregularities in crystal lattice and secondary interactions. Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA) of PEG‐calcite revealed its impressive thermal stability, as blend was stable up to 423°C, higher than decomposition temperature of PEG. DSC analysis of PEG‐calcite after 50 cycles showcased excellent thermal reliability of blend, with enthalpy decreasing to only 108.5 ± 0.52 J/g. Stability of material was further supported by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), where position and shape of peaks were found to be intact, suggesting no new compound formation. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) suggested strong adhesion and wrapping of PEG around calcite particles, facilitated by cross‐hydrogen bonding between carbonate group and PEG. PEG‐calcite blend exhibited high thermal conductivity (0.74 ± 0.05 W/mK), highlighting potential applications in thermal management systems.
Fish morphological and parasitological traits as ecological indicators of habitat quality in a Mediterranean coastal lagoon
Authors: Almeida David , Cruz Alejandra , Llinares Carla , Torralva Mar , Lantero Esther , Fletcher David H. , Oliva‐Paterna Francisco J.
Published: August 2023

Coastal lagoons are key ‘transitional’ aquatic environments for biodiversity conservation. Ecological indicators are useful tools for the management of water resources in the European Union. Among different biological communities, fish are a very sensitive tool to assess environmental integrity. Indeed, their parasites can be used as complementary indicators of habitat quality. Yet there is still a deep lack of information on ecological assessment using fish (along with their parasites) for coastal lagoons, particularly for the Iberian Peninsula.

The aim of the present study was to assess the use of fish morphology and their parasite communities as ecological indicators of anthropogenic impact within the Mar Menor coastal lagoon (SE Spain), a Mediterranean area of special conservation concern for European/Iberian biodiversity.

Fish samples (black‐striped pipefish Syngnathus abaster and marbled goby Pomatoschistus marmoratus) were collected in August 2022 from the Littoral (high level of nutrient enrichment) and Barrier habitats. Physical status (both external and internal indices), asymmetry (level of developmental instability), parasite load, diversity and life‐cycle complexity were compared between habitat types.

Body condition and mainly the health assessment index were better in the Barrier habitat. Except for pectoral fins in pipefish, the fluctuating asymmetry was statistically greater in the Littoral habitat (i.e. with eutrophication leading to poorer fish development). The parasite load was higher in the Littoral habitat for both host fish species. However, the diversity and life‐cycle complexity of parasite communities were statistically lower in the Barrier habitat (a structurally simpler environment) only for gobies.

This study demonstrates an elevated potential for certain fish morphological and parasitological traits to be considered as good ecological indicators of environmental health. This could help environmental managers and policy makers to design effective monitoring programmes to detect impacts within valuable areas for conservation, such as the Mar Menor coastal lagoon.
Disclosing an autism diagnosis: A social identity approach
Authors: Togher Katie , Jay Sarah
Published: August 2023

Autistic people face a difficult dilemma around whether or not to disclose their diagnosis because autistic people are a stigmatized social group. The central aim of this study was to examine if a social identity approach could be useful in understanding the factors that predict the likelihood of autistic adults disclosing their autism diagnosis in social settings, in the workplace, in educational settings and in the family. The social identity approach predicts that autistic people may cope with this dilemma by using an individualistic strategy to distance themselves from their autistic social identity. Alternatively, they may embrace their autistic social identity and use a collective strategy to resist stigma and advocate for autistic people. We present a survey based cross‐sectional study (n = 175) with autistic adults living in Ireland. Participants completed a series of measures; autism social identification, stigma consciousness, and individualistic and collective strategy use to assess disclosing in the four settings. The overall models in each of the four regressions were significant. Autism social identification positively predicted disclosure in social, workplace and educational settings, while stigma consciousness negatively predicted disclosure in the family and in the workplace. Interestingly, over and above these predictors individualistic strategy use negatively predicted disclosure in each of the four settings, while collective strategy use positively predicted disclosure in social, educational and family settings. Our novel social identity approach was useful for explaining autistic adults' strategies to cope with the complex disclosure dilemma. Strengths, limitations, and directions for future research are discussed.
Reproductive and neurobehavioral effects of dinotefuran in an F1‐generation toxicity study in mice
Authors: Tanaka Toyohito , Suzuki Jin , Inomata Akiko
Published: August 2023

Background

Few studies were found for neurobehavioral toxicity of dinotefuran in mammals. This study was designed to evaluate the reproductive and neurobehavioral effects of dinotefuran exposure in mice.

Methods

Dinotefuran was given in the diet to provide levels of 0% (control), 0.015%, 0.03%, and 0.06% from 5 weeks of age of the F0 generation to 11 weeks of age of the F1 generation in mice. Selected reproductive and neurobehavioral parameters were measured.

Results

Movement time increased with a significant dose‐related trend, and the related variables of rearing time decreased in significant dose‐related trends in adult males in the F0 generation. Litter size and weight increased in significant dose‐related trends, and sex ratio decreased in a significant dose‐related trend. The average body weight of offspring increased in a significant dose‐related trend on postnatal day (PND) 21 in both sexes. In the olfactory orientation on PND 14 in female offspring, the time required lengthened in a significant dose‐related trend. In male offspring, total distance and the average speed decreased in significant dose‐related trends, and the average time of rearing, number of defecations, and frequencies of mice with urination increased in a significant dose‐related trend. In female offspring, the related variables of rearing increased in significant dose‐related trends. In spontaneous behavior of males, the parallel lines during the control and treatment groups indicated a significant distance in the number of horizontal activities.

Conclusions

The dose levels of dinotefuran in the present study produced several adverse effects on reproductive and neurobehavioral parameters in mice.
Clinical outcome of therapy‐related acute myeloid leukemia patients. Real‐life experience in a University Hospital and a Cancer Center in France
Authors: Belhabri Amine , Heiblig Mael , Morisset Stephane , Vila Liliana , Santana Clémence , Nicolas‐Virelizier Emmanuelle , Hayette Sandrine , Tigaud Isabelle , Plesa Adriana , Labussiere‐Wallet Hélène , Sobh Mohamad , Michallet Anne‐Sophie , Marie Balsat , Nicolini Franck‐Emmanuel , Guillermin Yann , Gaëlle Fossard , Lebras Laure , Rey Philippe , Jauffret‐Bertholon Lucie , Laude Marie‐Charlotte , Sandrine Loron , Michallet Mauricette
Published: August 2023

Background

t‐AML occurs after a primary malignancy treatment and retains a poor prognosis.

Aims

To determine the impact of primary malignancies, therapeutic strategies, and prognostic factors on clinical outcomes of t‐AML.

Results

A total of 112 adult patients were included in this study. Fifty‐Five patients received intensive chemotherapy (IC), 33 non‐IC, and 24 best supportive care. At t‐AML diagnosis, 42% and 44% of patients presented an unfavorable karyotype and unfavorable 2010 ELN risk profile, respectively. Among treated patients (n = 88), 43 (49%) achieved complete remission: four out of 33 (12%) and 39 out of 55 (71%) in non‐IC and IC groups, respectively. With a median follow‐up of 5.5 months, the median overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS) for the whole population were 9 months and 6.3 months, respectively, and for the 88 treated patients 13.5 months and 8.2 months, respectively. Univariate analysis on OS and DFS showed a significant impact of high white blood cells (WBC) and blast counts at diagnosis, unfavorable karyotype and ELN classification. Multivariate analysis showed a negative impact of WBC count at diagnosis and a positive impact of chemotherapy on OS and DFS in the whole population. It also showed a negative impact of previous auto‐HCT and high WBC count on OS and DFS and of IC on OS in treated patients which disappeared when we considered only confounding variables (age, previous cancers, marrow blasts, and 2010 ELN classification). In a pair‐matched analysis comparing IC treated t‐AML with de novo AML, there was no difference of OS and DFS between the two populations.

Conclusion

We showed, in this study that t‐AML patients with unfavorable features represented almost half of the population. Best outcomes obtained in patients receiving IC must be balanced by known confounding variables and should be improved by using new innovative agents and therapeutic strategies.
Genetically predicted childhood body mass index and lung cancer susceptibility: A two‐sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wu Dongsheng , Zhou Jian , Huang Yuchen , Zheng Quan , Wang Tengyong , Liu Lunxu
Published: August 2023

Background

The association between adult body mass index (BMI) and lung cancer (LC) susceptibility have been reported, but the causal relationship with childhood BMI remains largely unclear. To evaluate the causal effect of childhood BMI on LC susceptibility, a two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study was performed.

Methods

The two‐sample MR analysis utilized 25 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) as instrumental variables for childhood BMI. Genetic summary data from the International Lung Cancer Consortium and FinnGen databases were analyzed to estimate the causal effect of these SNPs on LC susceptibility. The IVW method was employed as the primary analysis, supplemented by the Weighted Median, MR‐Egger, and MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier test.

Results

Our findings indicated that there was no causal association between childhood BMI and the susceptibility of LC (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.90–1.17, p = 0.705), lung adenocarcinoma (OR: 0.99, 95% CI: 0.86–1.13, p = 0.832), lung squamous cell carcinoma (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.84–1.13, p = 0.726), and small cell LC (OR: 1.09, 95% CI: 0.82–1.45, p = 0.554) based on the IVW as well as other methods employed. Furthermore, these findings indicated no causal effect of childhood BMI on the LC susceptibility in both ever smokers and never smokers.

Conclusion

This study did not conclude a causal effect between childhood BMI and LC susceptibility. However, given the complex nature of cancer development, further studies are needed to verify these findings.
Solitary pulmonary metastases at first recurrence of osteosarcoma: Presentation, treatment, and survival of 219 patients of the Cooperative Osteosarcoma Study Group
Authors: Mettmann Vanessa L. , Baumhoer Daniel , Bielack Stefan S. , Blattmann Claudia , Friedel Godehard , von Kalle Thekla , Kager Leo , Kevric Matthias , Nathrath Michaela , Sorg Benjamin , Dürken Matthias , Hecker‐Nolting Stefanie
Published: August 2023

Background

To evaluate patient and tumour characteristics, treatment and their impact on survival in patients with a solitary pulmonary metastasis at first relapse of high‐grade osteosarcoma.

Procedure

Two‐hundred and nineteen consecutive patients who had achieved a complete surgical remission and then developed a solitary pulmonary metastasis at first recurrence of high‐grade osteosarcoma were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Two hundred and three (94.9%) of 214 patients achieved a second complete remission. After a median time from initial diagnosis of osteosarcoma to first relapse of 2.3 years (range, 0.3–18.8 years), actuarial post‐relapse overall survival after 2 and 5 years was 72.0% and 51.2%. Post‐relapse event‐free survival was 39.1% and 31.1%. Median follow‐up time was 3.2 years (range, 0.1–29.4 years). A longer time until first relapse and diagnosis due to imaging were positive prognostic factors in uni‐ and multivariate analyses, as were a second complete surgical remission and, in regard to death, the absence of a subsequent relapse. The use of salvage chemotherapy and radiotherapy were not associated with patient outcomes, nor was the surgical approach (thoracoscopy vs. thoracotomy) nor the exploration (uni‐ vs. bilateral).

Conclusion

Approximately half of the patients who experience a solitary pulmonary relapse at first recurrence of osteosarcoma remain alive 5 years after this first relapse. Only one third will remain disease‐free. A complete surgical resection of the lesion is essential for long‐term survival while relapse chemotherapy does not seem to improve survival. Innovative therapies are required to improve outcomes.
How can counselling training courses better prepare their trainee therapists to work with LGBTQ+ clients?
Authors: Carrington Michael , Sims Michael
Published: August 2023

Aim

The purpose of this study was to explore the clinical and training experiences of recently qualified, LGBTQ+ identifying therapists who work with sexuality and gender diverse clients, in order to discover ways in which counselling training organisations might better prepare their trainees to work competently with this particular client group.

Method

One‐to‐one, semistructured interviews with five therapists were conducted. Data collected from these interviews were subsequently analysed using the seven steps of interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings

The analysis revealed six superordinate themes: Enhance tutors' LGBTQ+ knowledge and cultural awareness; Provide students with adequate supervision; Teach a range of LGBTQ+ topics; Integrate LGBTQ cultural competence training throughout the curriculum; Invite LGBTQ+ specialists; and Signpost students to additional resources.

Conclusions

Participants felt unprepared by their entry‐level counselling training to work with LGBTQ+ clients. The perceived lack of LGBTQ+ knowledge and understanding of their tutors was regarded as a contributing factor to the limited time and depth of LGBTQ cultural competence training received. Several suggestions to improve training in this area were offered.

Recommendations

Entry‐level counselling training courses should integrate LGBTQ cultural competence training throughout their curriculums in order to adequately prepare their trainees to work competently with LGBTQ+ clients. Additionally, it is important that counselling educators maintain their own LGBTQ+ knowledge, understanding and skills.
CuII Pyrazolyl‐Benzimidazole Dinuclear Complexes with Remarkable Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Chkirate Karim , Ati Gamal Al , Karrouchi Khalid , Fettach Saad , Chakchak Hind , Mague Joel T. , Radi Smaail , Adarsh N. N. , Abbes Faouzi My El , Essassi El Mokhtar , Garcia Yann
Published: August 2023

Three dinuclear coordination complexes generated from 1‐n‐butyl‐2‐((5‐methyl‐1H‐pyrazole‐3‐yl)methyl)‐1H‐benzimidazole (L), have been synthesized and characterized spectroscopically and structurally by single crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. Reaction with iron(II) chloride and then copper(II) nitrate led to a co‐crystal containing 78 % of [Cu(NO3)(μ‐Cl)(L’)]2 (C1) and 22 % of [Cu(NO3)(μ‐NO3)(L’)]2 (C2), where L was oxidized to a new ligand L’. A mechanism is provided. Reaction with copper chloride led to the dinuclear complex [Cu(Cl)(μ‐Cl)(L)]2 (C3). The presence of N−H⋅⋅⋅O and C−H⋅⋅⋅O intermolecular interactions in the crystal structure of C1 and C2, and C−H⋅⋅⋅N and C−H⋅⋅⋅Cl hydrogen bonding in the crystal structure of C3 led to supramolecular structures that were confirmed by Hirshfeld surface analysis. The ligands and their complexes were tested for free radical scavenging activity and ferric reducing antioxidant power. The complex C1/C2 shows remarkable antioxidant activities as compared to the ligand L and reference compounds.
Ru(II)‐Cyanine Complexes as Promising Photodynamic Photosensitizers for the Treatment of Hypoxic Tumours with Highly Penetrating 770 nm Near‐Infrared Light
Authors: Gandioso Albert , Izquierdo‐García Eduardo , Mesdom Pierre , Arnoux Philippe , Demeubayeva Nurikamal , Burckel Pierre , Saubaméa Bruno , Bosch Manel , Frochot Céline , Marchán Vicente , Gasser Gilles
Published: August 2023

Light‐activated treatments, such as photodynamic therapy (PDT), provide temporal and spatial control over a specific cytotoxic response by exploiting toxicity differences between irradiated and dark conditions. In this work, a novel strategy for developing near infrared (NIR)‐activatable Ru(II) polypyridyl‐based photosensitizers (PSs) was successfully developed through the incorporation of symmetric heptamethine cyanine dyes in the metal complex via a phenanthrimidazole ligand. Owing to their strong absorption in the NIR region, the PSs could be efficiently photoactivated with highly penetrating NIR light (770 nm), leading to high photocytotoxicities towards several cancer cell lines under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions. Notably, our lead PS (Ru‐Cyn‐1), which accumulated in the mitochondria, exhibited a good photocytotoxic activity under challenging low‐oxygen concentration (2 % O2) upon NIR light irradiation conditions (770 nm), owing to a combination of type I and II PDT mechanisms. The fact that the PS Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), the metabolite of the clinically approved 5‐ALA PS, was found inactive under the same challenging conditions positions Ru‐Cyn‐1 complex as a promising PDT agent for the treatment of deep‐seated hypoxic tumours.
Chemical Tailoring of β‐Cyclodextrin‐Graphene Oxide for Enhanced Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Adsorption from Drinking Water
Authors: Tunioli Francesca , Marforio Tainah D. , Favaretto Laura , Mantovani Sebastiano , Pintus Angela , Bianchi Antonio , Kovtun Alessandro , Agnes Marco , Palermo Vincenzo , Calvaresi Matteo , Navacchia Maria Luisa , Melucci Manuela
Published: August 2023

We report on the synthesis of β‐cyclodextrin (βCD) modified graphene oxide (GO) nanosheets, having different sized alkyl linkers (GO‐Cn‐βCD) and their exploitation as sorbent of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from drinking water. βCD were functionalized with a pending amino group, and the resulting precursors grafted to GO nanosheets by epoxide ring opening reaction. Loading of βCD units in the range 12 %–36 % was estimated by combined XPS and elemental analysis. Adsorption tests on perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), a particularly persistent PFAS selected as case study, revealed a strong influence of the alkyl linker length on the adsorption efficiency, with the hexyl linker derivative GO‐C6‐βCD outperforming both pristine GO and granular activated carbon (GAC), the standard sorbent benchmark. Molecular dynamic simulations ascribed this evidence to the favorable orientation of the βCD unit on the surface of GO which enables a strong contaminant molecules retention.
Chemoimmunotherapy in patients with extensive‐stage small cell lung cancer and a poor performance status
Authors: Agarwal Muskan , Liu Alex , Almquist Daniel , Langlais Blake T. , Leventakos Konstantinos , Yu Nathan Y. , Manochakian Rami , Ernani Vinicius
Published: August 2023

Background

Immune checkpoint inhibitor combined with platinum‐etoposide is the standard first‐line therapy for patients with extensive‐stage small cell lung cancer (ES‐SCLC). The phase 3 clinical trials that led to the approval of chemoimmunotherapy in ES‐SCLC excluded patients who had an Eastern Cooperative Group (ECOG) performance status (PS) of 2–3. Therefore, data on the efficacy of chemoimmunotherapy in patients with an ECOG PS of 2–3 are limited.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed on patients diagnosed with ES‐SCLC who received chemoimmunotherapy (atezolizumab or durvalumab) within the Mayo Clinic Health System between January 2016 and January 2021. The objective of this study was to compare the overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and best clinical response to therapy in patients with an ECOG PS of 0–1 vs. patients with an ECOG PS of 2–3 who received chemoimmunotherapy for newly diagnosed ES‐SCLC.

Results

In total, 82 patients were included in the study. The mean ± standard deviation age was 68.1 ± 8.3 years. Of these, 56 patients were identified with an ECOG PS of 0–1, and 26 patients were identified with an ECOG PS of 2–3. The median PFS was similar regardless of ECOG PS (5.8 months [95% CI, 4.3–6.0 months] in the ECOG PS 0–1 group vs. 4.1 months [95% CI, 3.8–6.9 months] in the ECOG PS 2–3; p = .2994). The median OS was also similar regardless of ECOG PS (10.6 months [95% CI, 8.4–13.4 months] in the ECOG PS 0–1 group vs. 9.3 months [95% CI, 4.9–12.8 months]; p = .2718) in the ECOG PS 2‐3 group.

Conclusions

The study results demonstrated no significant difference in PFS or OS among the ECOG PS 2–3 and ECOG PS 0–1 groups. Therefore, chemoimmunotherapy should be considered for patients who have ES‐SCLC with an ECOG PS of 2–3.
Convergence in patient and therapist alliance ratings early in treatment with Personality Assessment Inventory clinical scales and subscales
Authors: Cersosimo Bianca H. , Hilsenroth Mark J. , Bornstein Robert F. , Gold Jerold R. , Blais Mark A.
Published: August 2023

We examined discrepancies in 81 patient‐therapist dyads' alliance ratings early in treatment (3rd or 4th session) in relation to Personality Assessment Inventory clinical scales, subscales and global psychopathology. Results indicated that PAI global psychopathology (mean clinical elevation) and the scales of Aggression [AGG], Somatization [SOM], and Anxiety‐Related Disorders [ARD] were significantly, negatively associated with an absolute difference of patient and therapist alliance ratings at Session 3. Higher initial scores on these clinical scales at treatment onset are associated with less difference (i.e., more convergence) in patient/ therapist ratings of alliance at Session 3. Correlations between PAI clinical subscales and absolute differences of patient and therapist alliance ratings at Session 3 also demonstrated statistically significant inverse relationships for several PAI subscales of Aggression‐ Attitude [AGG‐A], Aggression‐Physical [AGG‐P], Somatic‐ Health Concerns [SOM‐H], Anxiety‐Related Disorders‐Traumatic Stress [ARD‐T], Anxiety‐Related Disorders‐ Obsessive Compulsive [ARD‐O], Borderline Features‐Affective Instability [BOR‐A], Borderline‐ Self‐Harm [BOR‐S], Anxiety‐Physiological [ANX‐P], Depression‐Physiological [DEP‐P] and Antisocial‐Stimulus Seeking [ANT‐S]. Again, higher scores on these subscales at treatment onset are associated with less difference (i.e., more convergence) in patient/therapist ratings. We also examined group differences between patients rating alliance higher (Group 1) and therapists rating alliance higher (Group 2) and found that Group 1 had significantly lower scores on Mania‐Activity Level [MAN‐A]. Clinical implications of results are discussed.
Concurrent Gabapentin and Opioid Use and Risk of Mortality in Medicare Recipients with Non‐Cancer Pain
Authors: Corriere Meghan A. , Daniel Laura L. , Dickson Alyson L. , Nepal Puran , Hall Kathi , Plummer W. Dale , Dupont William D. , Murray Katherine T. , Stein C. Michael , Ray Wayne A. , Chung Cecilia P.
Published: August 2023

Gabapentin is prescribed for pain and is perceived as safe generally. However, gabapentin can cause respiratory depression, exacerbated by concomitant central nervous system depressants (e.g., opioids), a concern for vulnerable populations. We compared mortality rates among new users of either gabapentin or duloxetine with or without concurrent opioids in the 20% Medicare sample. We conducted a new‐user design retrospective cohort study, in Medicare enrollees ages 65–89 years with noncancer chronic pain and no severe illness who filled prescriptions between 2015 and 2018 for gabapentin (n = 233,060) or duloxetine (n = 34,009). Daily opioid doses, estimated in morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs), were classified into none, low (0 < MME < 50), and high (≥ 50 MME), based on Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommendations. The outcomes were all‐cause mortality (primary) and out‐of‐hospital mortality (secondary). We used inverse probability of treatment weighting to adjust for differences between gabapentin and duloxetine users. During 116,707 person‐years of follow‐up, 1,379 patients died. All‐cause mortality rate in gabapentin users was 12.16 per 1,000 person‐years vs. 9.94 per 1,000 in duloxetine users. Risks were similar for users with no concurrent opioids (adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.80–1.31) or low‐dose daily opioids (aHR = 1.06, 95% CI: 0.63–1.76). However, gabapentin users receiving concurrent high‐dose daily opioids had an increased rate of all‐cause mortality compared with duloxetine users on high‐dose opioids (aHR = 2.03, 95% CI: 1.19–3.46). Out‐of‐hospital mortality yielded similar results. In this retrospective cohort study of Medicare beneficiaries, concurrent use of high‐dose opioids and gabapentin was associated with a higher all‐cause mortality risk than that for concurrent use of high‐dose opioids and duloxetine.
A Zwitterionic Tetrastanna(II) Cyclic Crown
Authors: Sahoo Padmini , Chibde Purva , Das Satyabrata , Banerjee Subhrashis , Mali Bhupendra P. , Vanka Kumar , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Yildiz Cem. B. , Majumdar Moumita
Published: August 2023

A 12‐membered zwitterionic tetrastanna(II) cycle 1 having a crown ether‐like topology has been isolated from the deprotonation of 1,1′‐methylenediimidazole (B) with two equivalents of Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2 (A). The solid‐state structure and NMR analysis confirms the tetrastanna(II) cycle 1 to be comprised of two stannate(II) and two stannyliumylidene ion pairs in alternating positions of the heterocycle. Computational analysis shows greater nucleophilicity at the proximally located stannate(II) centers. Nonetheless, the tetrastanna(II) cycle 1 remains poorly reactive due to engagement of SnII lone pair electrons in intramolecular donor‐acceptor interactions. Simple deprotonation reaction between Sn[N(SiMe3)2]2 (A) and N‐(diisopropylphenyl)imidazole (C) in equimolar ratio has led to a stannylene 2, involving the formation of a Sn−C covalent bond with the anionic imidazol‐2‐yl carbon center along with the release of NH(SiMe3)2. Compound 2 exists as a dimer, where the unsubstituted ring nitrogen atom coordinated intermolecularly to the other stannylene center.
Sexual violence and traumatic identity change: Evidence of collective post‐traumatic growth
Authors: Muldoon Orla T. , Nightingale Alastair , Lowe Robert , Griffin Siobhan M. , McMahon Grace , Bradshaw Daragh , Borinca Islam
Published: August 2023

Recent research indicates that social identities play a crucial role in the connection between adversity, post‐traumatic stress, and overall psychological well‐being. Understanding of how trauma influences collective dimensions of the self, positively or negatively, is limited. This study focuses on analysing publicly accessible narratives of four women who chose to waive their anonymity after the conviction of the men who had attacked and sexually assaulted them in Ireland. Thematic analysis highlighted two themes that signal (i) collective dimensions to this personal trauma, (ii) attempts to reconstruct social identities in the aftermath of trauma. Women presented their experiences as having the potential to amplify positive connections with others despite the wider embedded sociocultural understanding of sexual assault. These changes were associated with redefinition of social identities. Discussion highlights the potential for personal and intimate trauma to result in positive social identity change; a phenomenon that we label collective post‐traumatic growth.
The role of Transcription Factor IIH complex in nucleotide excision repair
Authors: Hoag Allyson , Duan Mingrui , Mao Peng
Published: August 2023

DNA damage occurs throughout life from a variety of sources, and it is imperative to repair damage in a timely manner to maintain genome stability. Thus, DNA repair mechanisms are a fundamental part of life. Nucleotide excision repair (NER) plays an important role in the removal of bulky DNA adducts, such as cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers from ultraviolet light or DNA crosslinking damage from platinum‐based chemotherapeutics, such as cisplatin. A main component for the NER pathway is transcription factor IIH (TFIIH), a multifunctional, 10‐subunit protein complex with crucial roles in both transcription and NER. In transcription, TFIIH is a component of the pre‐initiation complex and is important for promoter opening and the phosphorylation of RNA Polymerase II (RNA Pol II). During repair, TFIIH is important for DNA unwinding, recruitment of downstream repair factors, and verification of the bulky lesion. Several different disease states can arise from mutations within subunits of the TFIIH complex. Most strikingly are xeroderma pigmentosum (XP), XP combined with Cockayne syndrome (CS), and trichothiodystrophy (TTD). Here, we summarize the recruitment and functions of TFIIH in the two NER subpathways, global genomic (GG‐NER) and transcription‐coupled NER (TC‐NER). We will also discuss how TFIIH's roles in the two subpathways lead to different genetic disorders.
Food safety knowledge among 7th‐grade middle school students: A report of a Brazilian municipal school using workshop‐based educational strategies
Authors: Brandão Maria Aparecida da Ressurreicão , Bello Maria Elvira do Rego Barros , de Souza Manuella Farias , Carvalho Maria Rita de Jesus , Maciel Bianca Mendes
Published: August 2023

Practical methodologies that include food safety and hygiene education in pedagogical activities are strategies to prevent foodborne diseases (FBDs). Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate the knowledge of 7th‐grade middle school students regarding food microbiology and food safety, and to apply workshop‐based educational strategies that focus on scientific literacy. The students (144) were initially evaluated using a Likert‐scale questionnaire (pre‐intervention, Q0) with ten objective questions on microbiology and food safety. Once the questionnaire was evaluated, interventions were conducted through five science workshops of 50 min, over a period of 5 months. The workshops included educational games, laboratory practices, videos, and lectures that addressed microorganisms that are known to cause the most common FBDs in Brazil. After each workshop, students were asked to express their opinions and understanding of the content through semi‐structured interviews. Six months after the end of the practical interventions, the students completed a second identical Likert‐scale questionnaire (post‐intervention, Q1), and the answers to both questionnaires (Q0 and Q1) were analyzed by calculating the middle rank. The middle rank of Q1 (mean = 0.65 ± 0.13) was 21% greater than the middle rank of Q0 (mean = 0.44 ± 0.16), and statistical significance was observed (p = .0135). This demonstrates that new information acquired during the workshops positively influenced learning. We believe that when practical approaches to food safety are included in school education as a priority, the prevalence of FBD will decrease.
Report of a vagal paraganglioma at the cervicothoracic junction
Authors: Yun Jun , Kapustin Danielle , Omorogbe Aisosa , Rubin Samuel J. , Nicastri Daniel G. , De Leacy Reade A. , Khorsandi Azita , Urken Mark L.
Published: August 2023

Background

Vagus nerve paragangliomas are rare tumors, comprising 0.03% of head and neck neoplasms. These tumors are usually located cephalad to the hyoid bone, and there is only one previously reported case that arose from the lower third of the neck.

Methods

We describe the second reported case of a lower neck vagus nerve paraganglioma that was managed with a limited sternotomy for access and surgical removal.

Results

A 66‐year‐old male presented with a long‐standing lesion of the cervicothoracic junction. CT, MRI, and Ga‐68 DOTATATE PET/CT showed an avidly enhancing 5.2 × 4.2 × 11.5 cm mass extending from C6 to approximately T4 level. FNA confirmed the diagnosis. The patient underwent catheter angiography and embolization via direct puncture technique followed by excision of the mass via a combined transcervical and limited sternotomy approach.

Conclusion

We describe an unusual case of vagal paraganglioma at the cervicothoracic junction with retrosternal extension requiring a sternotomy for surgical excision.
‘I actually thought that I was going to die’: Lessons on the rip current hazard from survivor experiences
Authors: Cornell Samuel , Brander Robert W. , Roberts Amelia , Koon William , Peden Amy E. , Lawes Jasmin C.
Published: August 2023

Background

Rip currents are strong, narrow, fast‐flowing currents of water that occur on many beaches and in Australia contributing to 26 drowning deaths and several thousand lifeguard/lifesaver rescues each year. Educating the public about the rip current hazard is a primary focus of beach safety practitioners, but there has been a lack of qualitative research exploring the firsthand experiences of being caught in a rip current to assist in this regard. The aim of this study was to analyse interviews of rip current survivors to understand more about how people react when unintentionally caught in a rip current in order to help guide future public education to mitigate rip current drowning.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 56 individuals (primarily Australian‐born) about their experience of being caught in a rip current. Interviewees were recruited via an online survey and varied in age and self‐reported swimming ability.

Results

Thematic analysis revealed three key temporal elements to the rip current experience: Before the Rip in which lack of awareness and knowledge, complacency, over‐confidence, and attitude were prevalent themes; During the Rip which identified panic and temporary inhibition of decision‐making, physical response, prior experience, and relationships with other beach users as themes; and After the Rip where post‐rip effects and rip safety messaging and education were key themes. The importance of experiential immersion was a prevalent thread throughout all phases of the thematic analysis.

Discussion

Our research shows that being caught in a rip current can be an intense and traumatic experience and that lessons learned from survivors have significant implications for improving existing and future rip current education efforts. In this regard, we provide several recommendations based on evidence‐based insights gained from our interviews including the development of immersive rip current experience using virtual reality.

So What

Despite the prevalence of rip currents causing drowning deaths and rescues, there has been a lack of qualitative research on firsthand experiences to aid in public education. These interviews emphasise the intense and traumatic nature of being caught in a rip current, underscoring the need for improved rip current education to aid in prevention of this, often harrowing, experience.