bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anticancer Potential of A. marmelos Fruit Extract in Human Colon Cancer Cell Lines is Mediated through the Regulation of EMT Signalling Molecules
Authors: Blessy Sheron , Devi R. Gayatri , Selvaraj J. , Priya A. Jothi
Published: January 2022

Background and Aim: A.marmelos is commonly called as Bael and is used as a medicinal plant mostly in the Ayurveda. Bael has the property of gastrointestinal effect. Bael phytochemicals are radioprotective, chemoprotective and it has efficacious properties in the treatment of cancer and its preventions. The main aim of this study is to estimate an anticancer activity of Bael in colon cancer cells of human.

Materials and Methods: Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT), Phosphate-buffered saline(PBS) are used as materials. The cell line used is HT 29. MTT test was used to check cell viability by calorimetric technique. The HT 29 cell was exposed to different mediums. Then the cell viability is calculated. Real time PCR was used to analysis gene expression in which cDNA synthesis was performed in varied sample volume. Melting curves were acquired for all samples. Data is analyzed by comparative CT method. It was analyzed by graph pad prism.

Results: The findings showed that the effect of Bael fruit extraction of HT 29 cells shows a significance of P<0.05. One of the parameters is treated with untreated control cells. The other two parameters are 100μg, 200μg. In Vimentin mRNA and E cadherin mRNA expression one is treated with untreated control cells and 100μg.

Conclusion: This concludes that the properties of the bael can act as an anticancer potential in human colon cancer cell HT 29 through EMT signalling molecules.
Case Report on Intra Arterial Thrombosis
Authors: Ingale Sagar Anilrao , Wankhede Darshana Kumari , Kholhekar Sonali
Published: January 2022

Introduction: A thrombosis is a blood clot in an artery that can be highly harmful because it stops blood from reaching essential organs. Arteries are blood vessels that convey blood from the heart to the rest of the body and the heart muscle.

Clinical Finding: pain in left lower abdomen and as well as thoracic region also and pain in lower limb extremities are also occurred, pulse is 78 beats/ min, and temperature is 98.6°F or 37°.

Diagnostic Evaluation: Blood test:- Hb –14.3 gm%, total RBC count – 4.84 millions/cu mm, RDW – 13.3%, HCT -42.4%, total WBC count –7100/cu mm, monocytes – 03%, granulocyte –70%, lymphocyte – 25%.

Peripheral Smear: RBC:- normocytic normochromic, Platelets:- adequate on smear, No hemiparasite seen Ultrasonography: There is no sonography report founded.

Therapeutic intervention: Inj. Ceftraxine- 19 mg, inj. Hydrotrsol – 100 mg, inj. Heparin – 5000 IV –TDS , tab. Ecosprin – 100 mg –OD, tab. Clopitab- 75 mg – OD.

Outcome: After treatment, the patient has improved his fever, pain in the chest, and lower extremities pain have all been reduced.

Conclusion: Patient was admitted to cardiology ward in hospital with known case of arterial thrombosis and he had complain of fever chest pain and also pain in lower limb. After getting appropriate treatment his condition was improved. Smoking, overweight, and drinking are additional factors that promote intra-arterial thrombosis. After getting therapy, patient's condition significantly improved, and the treatment was continue until final day of care.
Multiple sclerosis and inflammatory bowel disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Xuan , Wan Jian , Wang Min , Zhang Yujie , Wu Kaichun , Yang Fang
Published: January 2022

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are two autoimmune diseases that seriously affect patients' quality of life. Previous studies have established an association between MS and IBD, including Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), but the results were inconsistent. The aim of this study was to quantify the prevalences of and the association between MS and IBD.

Methods

The PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched through November 2020 for studies reporting data on MS among patients with IBD and vice versa. The main outcomes were the proportion of MS in patients with IBD and vice versa, as well as the association (risk ratio [RR]) of IBD in MS and that of MS in IBD.

Results

Based on the analysis of 17 studies, the prevalence of MS in patients with IBD was 0.2% (95% CI 0.1–0.4%), while the prevalence of IBD in patients with MS was 0.6% (95% CI 0.4–0.9%). Patients with MS had a higher prevalence of IBD than controls (RR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.38–1.70, p < 0.00001). There was a similarly high risk of developing CD (RR 1.41, 95% CI 1.14–1.74, p = 0.001) or UC (RR 1.42, 95% CI 1.17–1.71, p = 0.0003) in patients with MS (p for subgroup differences: 0.97). Patients with IBD had a higher prevalence of MS than controls (RR = 1.91, 95% CI 1.06–3.45, p = 0.03).

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware of the increased risk of IBD or MS comorbidity during the diagnostic process. Systematic diagnosis and management at an earlier stage are suggested.
Your ID, please? The effect of facemasks and makeup on perceptions of age of young adult female faces
Authors: Davis Hannah , Attard‐Johnson Janice
Published: January 2022

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, wearing facemasks was mandatory in the United Kingdom except for individuals with medical exemptions. Facemasks cover the full lower half of the face; however, the effect of facemasks on age perception is not yet known. The present study examined whether age estimation accuracy of unfamiliar young adult women is impaired when the target is wearing a facemask. This study also examined whether makeup, which has previously been shown to increase error bias, further impairs age estimation accuracy when paired with a facemask. The findings indicate that both facemasks and makeup tend to result in overestimation of the young women's age compared to neutral faces, but the combination of both is not additive. Individual level analysis also revealed large individual differences in age estimation accuracy ranging from estimates within 1 year of the target's actual age, and age estimates which deviated by up to 20 years.
Polymerized Small Molecular Acceptor with Branched Side Chains for All Polymer Solar Cells with Efficiency over 16.7%
Authors: Li Yun , Song Jiali , Dong Yicai , Jin Hui , Xin Jingming , Wang Shijie , Cai Yunhao , Jiang Lang , Ma Wei , Tang Zheng , Sun Yanming
Published: January 2022

The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of small molecule acceptor (SMA)‐based organic solar cells have already exceeded 18%. However, the development of polymer acceptors still lags far behind their SMA counterparts mainly due to the lack of efficient polymer acceptors. Herein, a series of polymer acceptors named PY‐X (with X being the branched alkyl chain) are designed and synthesized by employing the same central core with the SMA L8‐BO but with different branched alkyl chains on the pyrrole motif. It is found that the molecular packing of SMA‐HD featuring 2‐hexyldecyl side chain used in the synthesis of PY‐HD is similar to L8‐BO, in which the branched alkyl chains lead to condensed and high‐order molecular assembly in SMA‐HD molecules. When combined with PM6, PY‐HD‐based all polymer solar cell (all‐PSC) exhibits a high PCE of 16.41%, representing the highest efficiency for the binary all‐PSCs. Moreover, the side‐chain modification on the pyrrole site position further improves the performance of the all‐PSCs, and the PY‐DT‐based device delivers a new record high efficiency of 16.76% (certified as 16.3%). The work provides new insights for understanding the structure–property relationship of polymer acceptors and paves a feasible avenue to develop efficient conjugated polymer acceptors.
Solution‐Processable Hole‐Transporting Polymers: Synthesis, Doping Study and Crosslinking Induced by UV‐Irradiation or Huisgen‐Click Cycloaddition
Authors: Caldera‐Cruz Enrique , Zhang Kenan , Tsuda Takuya , Tkachov Roman , Beryozkina Tetyana , Kiriy Nataliya , Voit Brigitte , Kiriy Anton
Published: January 2022

A pair of hole‐conducting polymers comprising 3,6‐linked carbazole and meta‐linked anisole derivatives having solubilizing moieties to enable their solution processability, and complementarily reactive side‐groups (azide and alkyne) for cross‐linking, are synthesized and characterized. The polymers can be cross‐linked either by thermal annealing at relatively low temperatures in the 85–110 °C range, or by UV irradiation. A general applicability of the latter for a photolithographic patterning of the hole conducting polymer is proven. The polymers have an ionization potential (IP) of 5.8 eV, close to the IP of a small molecule hole‐conductor tris(4‐carbazoyl‐9‐ylphenyl)amine (TCTA). In combination with a strong dopant hexacyano‐trimethylene‐cyclopropane (CN6CP), but not with commercial 2,3,5,6‐tetrafluoro‐7,7,8,8‐tetracyanoquinodimethane (F4TCNQ), the polymers can be efficiently p‐doped to increase their conductivity by 5–6 orders of magnitude, as measured in devices with a lateral setup. Taken together, these characteristics suggest that the synthesized polymers are promising candidates for their use in solution‐processable organic light‐emitting diodes as hole‐injection layer and hole‐transporting layer materials, which will be verified in the upcoming work.
All About the Interface: Do Residual Contaminants at A High‐Quality h‐BN Monolayer Perylene Diimide Interface Cause Charge Trapping?
Authors: Renn Lukas , Walter Lisa S. , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Weitz R. Thomas
Published: January 2022

Intrinsic charge transport in molecularly thin organic semiconducting crystals is critically sensitive to the quality of the interfaces required to perform the electrical measurements. Most prominent are the dielectric–semiconductor and semiconductor–metal interface. While impacts from the latter on charge transport can be extracted by four‐terminal measurements, the impact of the dielectric interface can only be minimized, typically by utilizing inert dielectrics. Here, it is shown that charge transport in organic field‐effect transistors based on the n‐type small molecule N, N′‐di((S)‐1‐methylpentyl)‐1,7(6)‐dicyano‐perylene‐3,4:9,10‐bis(dicarboximide) (PDI1MPCN2) can be improved up to one order of magnitude by using hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN) as dielectric, compared to a standard SiO2 substrate. Using temperature‐dependent electrical measurements, the charge‐transport properties of devices are systematically analyzed, and high four‐terminal mobilities of up to 5.0 cm2 V−1 s−1 are obtained. The high mobility likely stems from decreased charge‐carrier trapping at the semiconductor‐dielectric interface due to the smooth surface of the inert h‐BN. Nevertheless, the temperature dependencies of the mobility, threshold voltage, and interface‐state trap density suggest that charge‐carrier trapping at the dielectric‐semiconductor interface still exists. By comparing the data to transport studies performed on thin air‐gapped organic films, it is concluded that an interfacial layer (likely water or solvent residues) between h‐BN and the monolayer PDI1MPCN2 causes charge trapping.
Real‐Time Visualization of Hydrogen Distribution in Metals Using Polyaniline: An Ultrasensitive Hydrogenochromic Sensor
Authors: Kakinuma Hiroshi , Ajito Saya , Hojo Tomohiko , Koyama Motomichi , Akiyama Eiji
Published: January 2022

Hydrogen is one of the key elements for the economy based on renewable and sustainable resources. Because a very low concentration of hydrogen in metallic structural materials often causes hydrogen embrittlement and decreases their mechanical property, there is a great interest in the development of an inexpensive and versatile sensor for hydrogen in metals with high sensitivity and high spatial resolution. Here, real‐time visualization of atomic state hydrogen in a metal has been successfully achieved using a hydrogenochromic sensor consisting of a conventionally fabricated polyaniline layer and an interfacial Ni layer plated on the metal surface. The color change of the polyaniline layer due to its hydrogenation reaction can visualize the distribution of atomic state hydrogen in metals. Because the Ni interfacial layer functions as a catalyst for the hydrogenation reaction, the high sensitivity of ≈2 µmol m–2 and high spatial resolution of hundreds of micrometers are realized. This study opens a gate to a general approach for visualizing atomic state hydrogen in metals using polymers. In addition to the easy fabrication process and simple analytical method, the high sensitivity and high spatial resolution make the hydrogenochromic sensor promising for studying hydrogen behavior in metals.
Optoelectronic Devices Based on Scaffold Stabilized Black‐Phase CsPbI3Nanocrystals
Authors: Romero‐Pérez Carlos , Rubino Andrea , Caliò Laura , Calvo Mauricio E. , Míguez Hernán
Published: January 2022

The optoelectronic properties of lead halide perovskites are intimately related to their crystalline phase. For the case of cesium lead iodide (CsPbI3) several polymorphs meet the Goldschmidt tolerance factor, which determines their stability, and form broad band absorber and luminescent phases. However, at room temperature none of them are stable, which prevents their use in optoelectronics. In this work, bare CsPbI3nanocrystals are synthesized in the sub‐10 nm range in the “black”, light emitting, crystalline phase, using a pore controlled SiO2matrix that limits crystal size and confers a certain degree of strain that favors their stability. Quantum confinement effects allow the tuning of the optical properties of the CsPbI3nanocrystals by means of the crystal size. Their suitability as optoelectronic materials is demonstrated by building scaffold supported CsPbI3quantum dot based photovoltaic and light emitting devices.
Optimizing the Back Contact of Kesterites and Perovskites: Band Edge Design and Defect Engineering in Molybdenum Chalcogenides
Authors: Xiang Huiwen , Zhang Jinping , Liang Hanzhen , Zhu Rui , Liu Chengyan , Jia Yu
Published: January 2022

Back contacts, as an important part of solar cell devices, play a critical role in efficient separation of carriers and reduction of interfacial recombination. Here, by analyzing interfacial band alignment, thickness and defect properties of back contacts, a design principle for back contacts is proposed to properly accommodate the interrelated factors of short‐circuit current (Jsc), open‐circuit voltage (Voc), series resistance (Rs), and nonradiative recombination centers (NRCs) at the same time. A preferred back contact should have (i) a high valance band maximum (VBM) and (ii) a low Fermi level relative to absorber to drive hole extraction and block electron leakage, (iii) a thin design under the premise of p+‐type characteristic to effectively reduce Rs, which also ensures a wide depletion region on the absorber side to promote hole collection, and (iv) no additional deep‐level defects as interfacial NRCs. Taking molybdenum chalcogenide as example, p+‐type MoSe2/MoS2 realized by group VB element doping satisfies the design principles and is promising as an excellent back contact for kesterite/perovskite solar cells. This study gives theoretical guidance for designing an ideal back contact and shows how to improve the photovoltaic performance of solar cells by interfacial optimization.
Smart Wireless Near‐Infrared Light Emitting Contact Lens for the Treatment of Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Lee Geon‐Hui , Jeon Cheonhoo , Mok Jee Won , Shin Sangbaie , Kim Su‐Kyoung , Han Hye Hyeon , Kim Seong‐Jong , Hong Sang Hoon , Kim Hwanhee , Joo Choun‐Ki , Sim Jae‐Yoon , Hahn Sei Kwang
Published: January 2022

Diabetic retinopathy is currently treated by highly invasive repeated therapeutic injections and surgical interventions without complete vision recovery. Here, a noninvasive smart wireless far red/near‐infrared (NIR) light emitting contact lens developed successfully for the repeated treatment of diabetic retinopathy with significantly improved compliance. A far red/NIR light emitting diode (LED) is connected with an application‐specific integrated circuit chip, wireless power, and communication systems on a PET film, which is embedded in a silicone elastomer contact lens by thermal crosslinking. After in vitro characterization, it is confirmed that the retinal vascular hyper‐permeability induced by diabetic retinopathy in rabbits is reduced to a statistically significant level by simply repeated wearing of smart far red/NIR LED contact lens for 8 weeks with 120 µW light irradiation for 15 min thrice a week. Histological analysis exhibits the safety and feasibility of LED contact lenses for treating diabetic retinopathy. This platform technology for smart LED contact lens would be harnessed for various biomedical photonic applications.
Effect of the Oxygen Composition Control of HfOx Films on Threshold and Memory Switching Characteristics for Hybrid Memory Applications
Authors: Lee Seungwoo , Kim Seong Hun , Oh Seungyeol , Lee Donghwa , Hwang Hyunsang
Published: January 2022

Considering a high‐density vertical X‐point memory array, the film thickness of an active device for the selector and memory needs to be scaled down. Here, the authors propose an AgTe/HfOx‐based hybrid memory device with a film thickness of less than 10 nm by adopting a bilayer (HfO1.8/HfO2) film using precise composition control. Non‐volatile switching characteristics can be obtained by considering the formation of stable nanoscale Ag filaments in the nanoporous region in non‐stoichiometric HfO1.8 deposited via sputtering. By contrast, volatile switching characteristics are achieved by an unstable atomic‐scale Ag path in stoichiometric HfO2 deposited via plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition. Based on density functional theory calculations, it is confirmed that the stoichiometry of the HfOx film is the key parameter that controls the switching characteristics. The bilayer (HfO1.8/HfO2) device exhibits excellent hybrid memory characteristics, such as distinct read margin (>1.5 V), high ON/OFF ratio (>106), and extremely low OFF current (≈pA), for vertical X‐point memory applications.
Elucidating the Effect of Borate Additive in High‐Voltage Electrolyte for Li‐Rich Layered Oxide Materials
Authors: Li Yixuan , Li Weikang , Shimizu Ryosuke , Cheng Diyi , Nguyen HongNam , Paulsen Jens , Kumakura Shinichi , Zhang Minghao , Meng Ying Shirley
Published: January 2022

Lithium‐rich layered oxides (LRLO) have attracted great interest for high‐energy Li‐ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity. However, capacity decay and voltage fade during the cycling impede the practical application of LRLO. Herein, the use of lithium bis‐(oxalate)borate (LiBOB) as an electrolyte additive is reported to improve the cycling stability in high voltage LRLO/graphite full cells. The cell with LiBOB‐containing electrolyte delivers 248 mAh g−1 initial capacity and shows no capacity decay after 70 cycles as well as 95.5% retention after 150 cycles over 4.5 V cycling. A systematic mechanism study for the LiBOB‐enabled cycling performance improvement is conducted. Analytical electron microscopy under cryo‐condition confirms the formation of a uniform interphase and less phase transformation on the LRLO particle, accompanied by less voltage decay in the cathode. The formation of B‐F species is identified in the cycled electrolyte, elucidating the HF scavenger effect of LiBOB. Due to less HF corrosion on both electrode interphases, a reduced amount of transition metal dissolution and redeposition on the graphite is proved, thereby mitigating the capacity decay in LRLO/graphite full cells. These findings suggest that the borate additive is a promising strategy to optimize high voltage electrolyte for the industrialization of LRLO.
Flexible Film‐Discharge‐Switch Assisted Universal Power Management System for the Four Operation Modes of Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Yan Wenjie , Liu Yuan , Chen Pengfei , Cao Leo N.Y. , An Jie , Jiang Tao , Tang Wei , Chen Baodong , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: January 2022

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are used to harvest high entropy energy. To optimize the energy harvesting, storage and effective utilization, a critical part is the power management system (PMS), which requires an ideal electrical switch as the key component. However, the current switch technologies cannot adapt and enhance the charging for the four operation modes of TENG simultaneously. Herein, a flexible film‐discharge‐switch (FDS), delivering an averaged charge‐enhance factor over 100 under four operation modes of TENG, compared to directly charging a capacitor with conventional rectifier is reported. More specifically, the charge‐enhancement factors of the FDS are 134.3, 64.7, 97.0, and 136.5 for the modes of contact‐separation, lateral sliding, single‐electrode, and freestanding triboelectric layer, respectively. Furthermore, the high flexibility, stability, simplicity, durability, and self‐driven design of FDS endows the switch the possibility of versatile applications in the four modes of TENGs and flexible PMSs in wearable TENG applications. The successful demonstration in TENGs shows the great potential of the FDS in various fields such as micro‐nano energy storage, distributed power supply, and self‐powered systems.
Ethnic and sociodemographic correlates of developmental dysplasia of the hip in newborns from Yucatan, Mexico
Authors: Mendez‐Dominguez Nina , Alvarez‐Baeza Alberto , Estrella‐Castillo Damaris , Lugo Roberto , Villasuso‐Alcocer Víctor , Azcorra Hugo
Published: January 2022

Objectives

To provide an insight of the incidence of congenital developmental dysplasia of the hip in newborns from Yucatan born between 2015 and 2019 and analyze its association with maternal sociodemographic characteristics and neonatal, pregnancy and delivery related aspects.

Methods

Retrospective, population‐based study from Birth Registries database in Yucatan, Mexico between 2015 and 2019. Presence of hip dysplasia was described and analyzed considering three aspects (I) Maternal information (II) Pregnancy and birth (III) Neonatal examination. We obtained incidence rates from each year and the complete studied period. Association between hip dysplasia and maternal, neonatal and pregnancy/delivery variables was analyzed using logistic regression, unadjusted odds ratio and an adjusted model.

Results

Hip dysplasia occurred in 13 per 10 000 live births. Significant associations were found between hip dysplasia and maternal place of residence in a city <50 000 inhabitants, without a local clinic. Propensity to give birth to a neonate with hip dysplasia increased with maternal age and ethnicity, in female newborns and when total number of pregnancy consultations summed <5. Newborns with hip dysplasia were heavier and less susceptible to be delivered vaginally. Congenital developmental hip dysplasia was comparatively more frequent among offspring of Mayan women and suboptimal access to medical care during pregnancy. Female neonates were affected the most, those first‐borns. Neonates with hip dysplasia were heavier and more susceptible to be born by cesarean section.

Conclusion

Maternal, neonatal, and perinatal factors are associated with DDH in Yucatecan infants born during 2015–2019. Factors that describe living conditions seems to have a more important effect on the presence of this condition.
Transformation of a Chiral Glycolic Acid to an Isoaurone: Stereochemical Assignment of a Benzilic Acid Rearrangment Product
Authors: Burke Anthony J. , Teixeira Carla S. S. , Sousa Sergio F.
Published: January 2022

The benzilic acid rearrangement (BAR) has been exploited with great effect over the last decades, used as the key step in many cases to afford complex target structures with interesting properties. Although the reaction is inherentely stereoselective in cyclic systems, the results achieved using acylic diketone systems can be less satisfactory. This report describes a highly stereoselective BAR in an acyclic system that gives a glycolic acid product which is then transformed via an elimination reaction to an unusual isoaurone product, in fact this latter product was the key to unravelling the stereochemistry of the glycolic acid product. The elimination reaction mechanism was studied using computational approaches.
Unexpected Synthesis of Oxadiazole Analogues: Characterization and Energetic Properties
Authors: Kumar Yadav Abhishek , Kumar Parasar , Ghule Vikas D. , Dharavath Srinivas
Published: January 2022

An attractive synthetic route was devaluped for making N‐(4‐(1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐3‐yl)‐1,2,5‐oxadiazol‐3‐yl) formamide (4) and di(1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐3‐yl) methanone O‐(nitrodi(1,2,4‐oxadiazol‐3‐yl)methyl) oxime (6) from commercially available inexpensive malononitrile starting material with easy purification, short experimental time and high yields at room temperature. The chemical structures of 4 and 6 were identified by NMR, IR, EA and verified by single‐crystal X‐ray studies. A plausible mechanism is proposed for the conversion of 4 to 6. Furthermore, both compounds have been evaluated for energetic applications. Based on their insensitive nature and good detonation performance, they are potential energetic materials.
Mentoring Then and Now
Authors: Creo Robert Angelo
Published: January 2022

Over the 40‐plus years of my career as an attorney and neutral, I have had the privilege of mentoring many associates, apprentices, clerks, interns, students, and colleagues.
Development and characterisation research on SnO2‐Al2O3‐NiO/SO42− catalysed epoxidation of soybean oil under hydraulic cavitation
Authors: Zhang Meng , Cheng Qianwei , Chen Tong , Wei Xiaoli , Meng Luli
Published: January 2022

A new hydraulic cavitation‐assisted epoxidation scheme was developed by using a cost‐effective, environment‐friendly, and recyclable solid‐acid catalyst. SnO2‐Al2O3‐NiO/SO42− solid‐acid catalysts were prepared using co‐precipitation and impregnation methods, which were characterised by several techniques and analysed using the Hammett acidity function. The prepared catalysts were found to have a large specific surface area (53.95 m2/g) and abundant acid sites (94 μmol/g). Exhibits higher stability and more effective catalytic activity compared with H2SO4. Under the optimal reaction conditions, the relative conversion to oxirane of 86.97% was obtained in only 1.5 h of reaction time. Moreover, the catalyst could be easily separated and showed satisfactory catalytic activity after five reuse cycles. The current work has clearly demonstrated that the application of hydraulic cavitation technology to the solid‐acid‐catalysed epoxidation reaction of soybean oil can shorten the reaction time, increase the relative conversion to oxirane, and be a viable method with promising applications.
Synthesis, characterization, molecular docking, biological activity, and DNA cleavage studies of Cu(II), Co(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), and Cd(II) Schiff base complexes
Authors: El‐Sonbati Adel Z. , Diab Mostafa A. , El‐Sayed Ahmed K. , Abou‐Dobara Mohamed I. , El‐Sayad Sameh A.
Published: January 2022

Metal complexes of Schiff base ligand 4‐((Z)‐(4‐nitrophenylimino)methyl)benzene‐1,3‐diol (H2L) derived from condensation of 2,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde and p‐nitroaniline were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, 1H NMR spectra, magnetic moment, molar conductance, and ultraviolet (UV)–Visible and thermal analysis. The complexes were proposed to have the formula [M (HL)(OAc)2] where M = Cu (II), Co(II), Ni(II), Mn(II), and Cd(II). The Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectra showed that ligand is coordinated to the metal ions in bidentate manner with donor sites of the azomethine‐N, phenolic‐OH. The synthesized Schiff base ligand and its metal complexes (1)–(5) were screened for their antibacterial activity. Antifungal activities were determined against Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans. Complex (5) showed a high potential cytotoxic activity against growth human lung cancer tumor cell lines. The DNA cleavage properties of the ligand and its complexes have been investigated by gel electrophoresis whose results showed that the Cu(II) complex has a significant oxidative cleavage among other complexes. Addition of H2O2 to the cleavage reaction enhanced the complete DNA degradation for Cu(II) and Co(II) complexes and DNA cleavage for Mn(II) complex. Molecular docking study between the ligand and the receptors (Escherichia coli [3t88], Staphylococcus aureus [3q8u], prostate cancer [2q7l Hormone], breast cancer [1jnx Gene regulation], lung cancer [1x2j], and colon cancer [2hq6]) was carried out, and it was found that the ligand is an efficient compound for all these receptors.
Acidic wood extractives accelerate the curing process of emulsion polymer isocyanate adhesives
Authors: Özparpucu Merve , Sánchez‐Ferrer Antoni , Schuh Mathias , Wilhelm Bianca , Sarkar Riddhiman , Reif Bernd , Windeisen‐Holzhauser Elisabeth , Richter Klaus
Published: January 2022

Emulsion polymer isocyanate (EPI) adhesive is one of the most widely used structural adhesives in the woodworking industry. However, there has been a lack of knowledge on how the EPI‐adhesive interacts with the chemical constituents of wood, in particular, with the wood extractives that are known to influence the bonding quality. In this study, the interactions of the EPI‐adhesive with the water extracts and selected extractives from European wood species were systematically investigated using different analytical techniques. While the alterations in the curing properties of the pure EPI‐adhesive and EPI‐adhesive‐extract mixtures were revealed by in situ rheology and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, evolved gas analysis, and pyrolysis‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, the solid‐state 13C nuclear magnetic resonance were performed for analyzing the final chemical composition of the cured adhesive. Moreover, the influence of the extraction on the mechanical bonding performance was tested by tensile‐shear tests. The study revealed significant interactions between the EPI‐adhesive and tannin‐rich, acidic wood extracts. The acidic chestnut and oak extracts catalyzed the curing reactions and led to a huge increase in the adhesive viscosity. These interactions might affect the bonding quality, for example, adhesive penetration depth and formation of bonding strength, therefore, careful attention is required when bonding acidic wood surfaces.
Trends in particulate matter generation from truck and bus radial tires using a wear tester
Authors: Ha Jin Uk , Lee Hyun Hee , Ryu Gyeongchan , Lee Pyoung‐Chan , Ko Youn Ki , Jeoung Sun Kyoung
Published: January 2022

This study aimed to analyze the trend of particulate matter (PM) generation from tires by nonexhaust systems. These types of PM are lesser known than the airborne PM generated from automotive exhaust systems. Specimens with rubber formulations similar to commercial tires for trucks and buses were artificially abraded, and the generated PM was analyzed. Abrasion of a specimen made of butadiene rubber, which is a synthetic rubber, generated lesser PM than a natural rubber specimen. This reduction of PM generation was particularly significant for PM10. Furthermore, using carbon black (a filler in tires) having small sized particles, the generation of PM2.5 was reduced to a large extent. To study the influence of tire aging on the increased generation of PM, rubber specimens were analyzed after prolonged exposure to a high temperature.
Improving the flame retardancy of epoxy resin with ZIF‐67@GO‐PA nanohybrid as filler
Authors: Wang Hongni , He Zhongjie , Li Xiaoqian , Wang Yudeng , Yao Dongdong , Zheng Yaping
Published: January 2022

Despite many important industrial applications, epoxy resin (EP) suffers from high flammability. To solve the problem, functionalized graphene oxide with Co‐MOF and phytic acid (ZIF‐67@GO‐PA) was successfully prepared. Subsequently, 2 wt% of ZIF‐67@GO‐PA nano‐hybrids were added into EP. Base on the fire test results, the limiting oxygen index value of EP/ZIF‐67@GO‐PA enhances to 29.4% and its UL‐94 achieves V‐0 rating. Moreover, compared with pure EP, the peak heat release rate and total release rate are dramatically decreased by 57.4% and 25.7%, respectively. In addition, the fire growth index was reduced by 64.0%. These superior fire safety properties are due to the catalytic effect of metal oxide and phosphorous compounds produced during the combustion of ZIF‐67@GO‐PA, and the barrier effect of the graphene oxide. Because the denser char blocks the diffusion of heat during combustion, the fire hazard of EP composites is reduced.
Sinestre, deviance, or biology? An investigation of hand dominance in relation to tendon absence
Authors: Zeyl Victoria G. , McHayle Allison , Crozier Joseph W. , Kalliainen Loree K.
Published: January 2022

The present study aimed to examine the relationship between hand dominance and the presence or absence of the flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) in the fifth digit to add to the current body of knowledge. We hypothesized that the absence of the FDS in the right small finger is more prevalent in left‐handed individuals. This was a prospective study conducted from January 2020 to April 2021 and performed at the plastic surgery department of a university hospital. The sample consisted of volunteers with no history of upper limb trauma, surgery, or any other condition. The study included male and female individuals over 18 years old at a local Rhode Island university campus. The FDS tendons of the bilateral fifth fingers were evaluated through clinical testing by an independent examiner. A total of 236 hands from 118 volunteers were analyzed. Left‐hand dominant participants composed of 5% of the population. For these participants, the prevalence of absence of the fifth finger FDS tendon in the right hand was significantly higher than that of right‐hand dominant participants (71.4% vs. 28.8%). No significant difference between sex assigned at birth (male vs. female) was noted and the absence of the FDS in either hand, regardless of hand dominance. The results from the current study demonstrate that anatomy may contribute to one’s preference for left‐handedness. For children who have difficulty using their right hand, perhaps, an assessment of their FDS status may result in earlier acceptance of using their left hand.
Delivery of superoxide dismutase by TAT and abalone peptides for the protection of skin cells against oxidative stress
Authors: Reigado Gustavo Roncoli , Adriani Patricia Pereira , dos Santos Jeniffer Farias , Freitas Bruna Letícia , Fernandes Myrian Thiago Pruschinski , Chambergo Alcalde Felipe Santiago , Leo Patricia , Nunes Viviane Abreu
Published: January 2022

Trichoderma reesei superoxide dismutase (TrSOD) is a well‐characterized enzyme being stable between 30 and 90°C for 1 h with activity at pH between 2.6 and 9.0. This work aimed to clone, express, purify, and evaluate the protective effect antioxidant of this enzyme on skin cells when fused to transactivator of transcription (TAT) protein transduction domain of HIV‐1 and abalone (Ab) peptides to allow cell penetration. TrSOD, TAT‐TrSOD‐Yfp (fused to yellow fluorescent protein), and Ab‐TrSOD were expressed in E. coli and purified as soluble proteins. The cytotoxicity of the enzymes, at the concentrations of 1, 3, and 6 μmol/L, was evaluated for a period of 24 and 48 h of incubation, with no cytotoxic effect on 3T3 fibroblasts. The 3T3 cells were exposed to the oxidant agent tert‐butyl hydroperoxide and evaluated for reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, in the presence or not of the recombinant enzymes. TAT‐TrSOD‐Yfp was able to decrease the generation of ROS by 15% when used in the concentrations of 3 and 6 μmol/L in comparison to the control, but there was no difference in relation to the effect of TrSOD. Ab‐TrSOD, when compared to TrSOD, promoted a decrease in the formation of ROS of 19% and 14% at the concentrations of 1 and 6 μmol/L, respectively, indicating that this recombinant form was more effective in reducing oxidative stress compared to SOD without the cell‐penetrating peptide (CPP). Together, these results indicate that the fusion of SOD with these CPP increased the antioxidant capacity of fibroblasts, identified by the reduction in the generation of ROS. In addition, such molecules, in the concentrations initially used, were not toxic to the cells, opening perspectives for the development of products for antioxidant protection of the skin that may have therapeutic and cosmetic application.
Immobilization of lanthanide doped aluminate phosphor onto recycled polyester toward the development of long‐persistent photoluminescence smart window
Authors: El‐Newehy Mohamed , El‐Hamshary Hany , Abdulhameed Meera Moydeen , Tawfeek Ahmed M.
Published: January 2022

Smart window can be defined as switchable material whose light transmission is altered upon exposure to light, voltage, or heat. However, smart windows are usually produced from expensive and breakable glass materials. Herein, transparent smart window with long‐persistent phosphorescence, high optical transmittance, ultraviolet (UV) protection, rigid, high photostability and durability, an d superhydrophobicity was developed from recycled polyester (PET). Recycled polyester waste (RBW) was simply immobilized with different ratios of lanthanide‐doped aluminate nanoparticles (LdAN) to provide a long‐persistent phosphorescent polyester smart window (LdAN@PET) with an abili ty to persist emitting light for extended time periods. The solid‐state high temperature technique was used to prepare lanthanide‐doped aluminate (LdA) micro‐scale powder. Then, the top‐down technique was applied to afford the corresponding LdAN. Recycled shredded recycled polyester bottles were charged into a hot bath to provide a clear plastic shred bulk, which was then well‐mixed with LdAN and drop‐casted to provide long‐persistent luminescent smart window. In order to improve the phosphor dispersion in the PET bulk, LdAN was synthesized in the nanoparticle form which was characterized utilizing transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For better preparation of translucent smart window of long‐persistent phosphorescent polyester, LdAN must be homogeneously dispersed in the PET matrix without agglomeration. The morphology and chemical composition were studied by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR) spectra), X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy‐dispersion X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX). In addition, spectral profiles of excitation and emission, and decay and lifetime were used to better understand the photoluminescence properties. The hardness properties were also investigated. The developed phosphorescent transparent polyester smart window demonstrated a color switch to intense green underneath UV irradiation and greenish‐yellow under darkness as verified by CIELab color parameters. The afterglow polyester smart window showed an absorption wavelength at 365 nm and two phosphorescence intensities at 442 and 512 nm. An enhanced UV protection, photostability and hydrophobic activity were detected. The luminescent polyester substrates with lower LdAN ratios demonstrated rapid and reversible fluorescent photochromic activity beneath the UV light. The luminescent polyester substrates with higher LdAN contents displayed long‐persistent phosphorescence afterglow. The current strategy can be simply applied for the production of smart windows, low thickness anti‐counterfeiting films and warning signs.
Biochemistry shapes growth kinetics of nitrifiers and defines their activity under specific environmental conditions
Authors: Martinez‐Rabert Eloi , Smith Cindy J. , Sloan William T. , González‐Cabaleiro Rebeca
Published: January 2022

Is it possible to find trends between the parameters that define microbial growth to help us explain the vast microbial diversity? Through an extensive database of kinetic parameters of nitrifiers, we analyzed if the dominance of specific populations of nitrifiers could be predicted and explained. We concluded that, in general, higher growth yield (YXS) and ammonia affinity (a0NH3) and lower growth rate (µmax) are observed for ammonia‐oxidizing archaea (AOA) than bacteria (AOB), which would explain their considered dominance in oligotrophic environments. However, comammox (CMX), with the maximum energy harvest per mole of ammonia, and some AOB, have higher a0NH3 and lower µmax than some AOA. Although we were able to correlate the presence of specific terminal oxidases with observed oxygen affinities (a0O2) for nitrite‐oxidizing bacteria (NOB), that correlation was not observed for AOB. Moreover, the presumed dominance of AOB over NOB in O2‐limiting environments is discussed. Additionally, lower statistical variance of a0O2 values than for ammonia and nitrite affinities was observed, suggesting nitrogen limitation as a stronger selective pressure. Overall, specific growth strategies within nitrifying groups were not identified through the reported kinetic parameters, which might suggest that mostly, fundamental differences in biochemistry are responsible for underlying kinetic parameters.
Development and validation of an immune‐related prognosis signature associated with hypoxia and ferroptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yang Chun‐Bo , Feng Han‐Xin , Dai Chao‐Liu
Published: January 2022

Background

Hypoxia and ferroptosis are crucial in the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and they both affect the immune status of the tumor microenvironment. Previous studies have also shown a link between hypoxia and ferroptosis.

Patients and methods

In all, 814 HCC cases from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases were used as the discovery cohort, and 230 HCC cases from the International Cancer Genome Consortium database were used as the validation cohort. Hypoxia subtypes and ferroptosis subtypes were identified by consensus cluster analysis according to 174 hypoxia‐related genes and 193 ferroptosis‐related genes. The prognostic signature was constructed using the Cox and LASSO regression analyses, and two risk groups were identified. A comprehensive analysis of the clinical and immune characteristics between the two risk groups was further performed.

Results

Two hypoxia subtypes and two ferroptosis subtypes were distinguished and verified; subsequently, a five‐gene prognostic signature was constructed and the risk score could be acquired by the following formula: risk score = 0.0604*Expression (CA9)−0.0714*Expression (ANXA10) + 0.1501*Expression (CDC20)−0.0853*Expression (CYP7A1) + 0.0530*Expression (SPP1). Compared with the low‐risk group, the high‐risk group had a worse prognosis. The high‐risk group also showed a higher level of immune infiltration than the low‐risk group, and immune checkpoints were generally upregulated in the high‐risk group. The antigen presentation ability of the low‐risk group was poor, which may be related to the immune escape mechanism. Drug sensitivity analysis indicated that the high‐ and low‐risk groups were sensitive to tyrosine kinase inhibitors and chemotherapeutic drugs, respectively.

Conclusion

The hypoxia‐, ferroptosis‐, and immune‐associated prognostic signature we constructed could stratify patients with HCC and guide precise treatment.
Production of More Potent Anti‐Candida Labdane Diterpenes by Biotransformation Using Cunninghamella elegans
Authors: Sousa Ingrid P. , De Sousa Teixeira Maria V. , Freitas Jolindo A. , Ferreira Antônio G. , Pires Loren M. , Santos Raquel A. , Heleno Vladimir Constantino Gomes , Furtado Niege A. Jacometti Cardoso
Published: January 2022

Candida species are responsible for causing invasive candidiasis with high mortality rate and their resistance to available antifungal drugs is a major clinical challenge. Biotransformation process of the labdane diterpene ent‐labd‐8(17)‐en‐15,18‐dioic acid (1) carried out with Cunninghamella elegans afforded five new derivatives (compounds 2–6). Unusual regioselective hydroxylation of the methyl group at the C‐20 position of labdane‐type diterpene was achieved and all compounds were subjected to cytotoxicity and antifungal evaluations. Compound 1 and its derivatives were not cytotoxic to normal (MCF‐10A) and tumor (MCF‐7) cell lines. Compounds 2 and 3 exhibited fungistatic activity against all tested Candida strains at lower concentrations than fluconazole. Both compounds also showed the strongest fungicidal activity against C. albicans, which is the most prevalent fungal agent involved in candidemia.
A Bimetallic Nanozyme with Cascade Effect for Synergistic Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Cao Yue , Xu Bo , Zhao Ying , Zhang Tianqi , Wang Yinghui , Wang Daguang , Liu Jianhua , Song Shuyan , Zhang Hongjie
Published: January 2022

Novel nanocomposites were constructed through encapsulation of Au nanoparticles and Ru nanoparticles into dendritic mesoporous silica (DMSN‐Au‐Ru NPs). These exhibit improved effects due to a cascade catalytic ability for the synergistic therapy of cancer. Au nanoparticles with glucose oxidase‐like properties were found to catalyze the oxidation of glucose to produce H2O2, while Ru nanoparticles could decompose H2O2 and produce toxic 1O2 for improved photodynamic therapy (PDT). In addition, the nanocomposites were found to have good photothermal performance under irradiation by near‐infrared (NIR) light. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments show that the nanocomposites have good therapeutic effects due to the cascade catalytic effect and synergistic effect. These findings provide an effective way to design a new generation of nanodrugs for highly efficient cancer treatment.
Anode Materials for Rechargeable Aqueous Al‐Ion Batteries: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Cai Yi , Chua Rodney , Srinivasan Madhavi
Published: January 2022

Rechargeable aqueous Al‐ion batteries (AIBs) have attracted more attention as potential energy storage systems due to their low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. As a crucial role in AIBs, efforts have been devoted to exploring suitable anode material over the past decade. Herein, the latest advances in using Al3+ intercalation and Al deposition anode materials are critically discussed, including current challenges, reaction mechanisms, and achievable electrochemical properties. This review aims to provide a summary of the strategies proposed to date to overcome the anode issues restricting the present rechargeable aqueous AIBs. Emphasis is placed on alleviating the passivation and corrosion problems of metallic Al anode for realizing rechargeable aqueous AIBs with high energy density. Finally, some suggestions are put forward for the guidance of future research directions on the optimization of anode materials in the expectation of promoting further development of rechargeable aqueous AIBs.
Suicidal behaviour in first‐episode psychosis: The relevance of age, perceived stress and depressive symptoms
Authors: Vila‐Badia Regina , Kaplan Marcela , Butjosa Anna , Del Cacho Núria , Serra‐Arumí Clara , Colomer‐Salvans Alicia , Esteban‐Sanjusto Marina , Iglesias‐González Maria , Cuñat Oriol , Del Hoyo‐Buxo Blanca , Profep Group , Usall Judith
Published: January 2022

The onset of first episode psychosis (FEP) is a period of increased risk of suicide, which is 60% higher than in other stages of the disease. This work explored suicidal behaviour and its most relevant factors in a population with FEP and a healthy control (HC) sample. We used the Suicide Risk Scale of Plutchik (SRSP) to assess suicide behaviour, and Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS), Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS), Personal and Social Performance Scale (PSP), Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS) were administered to assess the severity of depression, mania, psychosocial functioning, perceived stress and psychopathology, respectively. Patients with FEP showed a higher prevalence in all measures of suicide behaviour than HC. Younger age and depressive symptoms were the most important predictors of suicide ideation and suicide attempt. More perceived stress and higher hopelessness were the most relevant predictors of suicide risk. Symptoms did not appear to be important factors in suicide behaviour. Younger age, perceived stress and depressive symptoms seem to be the most important factors in suicide behaviours in FEP.