bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stability of Immobilized Chemosensor‐Filled Vesicles on Anti‐Fouling Polymer Brush Surfaces
Authors: Yang Wenwu , Xiao Jiangxiong , Yang Bingquan , Mathew George , Schäfer Andreas H. , Hirtz Michael
Published: May 2024

The characterization of phospholipid membrane permeability for small molecules is crucial for many applications in drug discovery and biomedical research in general. Here, chemosensor‐laden vesicles offer an attractive platform for permeability assays. In this work, the stability of immobilized chemosensor‐filled vesicles is explored on anti‐fouling polymer brush surfaces for potential use in monitoring small molecule membrane permeability. The study focuses on the development of a method for immobilizing sensor‐loaded vesicles into arbitrary patterns on surfaces and characterizing their stability under changing temperatures and compositions. As substrate to enable intact, long‐term stable vesicle immobilization reactive polymer brushes with anti‐fouling properties are used. Utilizing microchannel cantilever spotting, biotin moieties are introduced on the polymer brush surface, enabling stable tethering of vesicles through streptavidin‐biotin interactions. The immobilized vesicles are monitored through fluorescence microscopy for their response to analytes under changing environmental parameters and vesicle composition. A higher stability of immobilized vesicles compared to free‐floating ones is observed, with permeability only at elevated temperatures. By tuning vesicle compositions, permeability at lower temperatures can be raised again. Overall, the study provides insights into a novel approach for vesicle immobilization, showcasing the potential of surface‐bound vesicles for applications in microfluidic systems and as biosensors in various assays.
Pure Tunable Emissions from Cesium Manganese Bromide by Monitoring the Crystal Fields Through a Sustainable Approach
Authors: Dutta Subhajit , Panchanan Swagata , Kumar Surjeet , Jaafreh Russlan , Yoo Jung Hyeon , Kwon Seok Bin , Hamad Kotiba , Dastgeer Ghulam , Yoon Dae Ho
Published: May 2024

Research on manganese (Mn) halide perovskite derivatives with tunable emissions and high color purity have gathered a significant amount of attention for display technology. Despite of mesmerizing optical properties, the synthesis of these all‐inorganic Mn halide compounds is followed by complex and toxic processes. Second, a precise control over the synthesis parameters is mandatory to achieve their pure emissions. Therefore, an ecologically sustainable water‐based solution approach is adapted here to tailor the phases and emissions of cesium manganese bromide (Cs‐Mn‐Br) perovskite derivatives. It is observed that a controlled injection of solution stabilizer plays a pivotal role in engineering the intrinsic properties of Mn halide perovskites. This solution stabilizer interacts with the Mn‐ions of those perovskite derivatives influencing their surrounding coordination environment and pure emission from then. A pure green emission with PLQY of 82% is achieved from as prepared Cs3MnBr5, whereas CsMnBr3 showed a red emission with PLQY of ≈20%. Encouraged by these properties phosphor‐driven light emitting diodes (LED) are designed that show a steady electroluminescence intensity. The CIE coordinates of the Cs3MnBr5 and CsMnBr3 LED prototypes are at (0.224, 0.659) and (0.688, 0.316). This study showcases simple, eco‐friendly tactics for developing green and red LED prototypes contributing toward sustainable device design.
Inhibition of METTL3 Alleviates NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation via Increasing Ubiquitination of NEK7
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Yang Xiaoyu , Huang Shenzhen , Lin Guifeng , Lei Kexin , Wang Qian , Lin Weimin , Li Hanwen , Qi Xingying , Seriwatanachai Dutmanee , Yang Shengyong , Shao Bin , Yuan Quan
Published: May 2024

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification, installed by METTL3‐METTL14 complex, is abundant and critical in eukaryotic mRNA. However, its role in oral mucosal immunity remains ambiguous. Periodontitis is a special but prevalent infectious disease characterized as hyperinflammation of oral mucosa and bone resorption. Here, it is reported that genetic deletion of Mettl3 alleviates periodontal destruction via suppressing NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Mechanistically, the stability of TNFAIP3 (also known as A20) transcript is significantly attenuated upon m6A modification. When silencing METTL3, accumulated TNFAIP3 functioning as a ubiquitin‐editing enzyme facilitates the ubiquitination of NEK7 [NIMA (never in mitosis gene a)‐related kinase 7], and subsequently impairs NLRP3 inflammasome assembly. Furtherly, Coptisine chloride, a natural small‐molecule, is discovered as a novel METTL3 inhibitor and performs therapeutic effect on periodontitis. The study unveils a previously unknown pathogenic mechanism of METTL3‐mediated m6A modifications in periodontitis and indicates METTL3 as a potential therapeutic target.
Transmural Flow Upregulates PD‐L1 Expression in Microvascular Networks
Authors: Wan Zhengpeng , Zhang Shun , Zhong Amy X. , Xu Liling , Coughlin Mark F. , Pavlou Georgios , Shelton Sarah E. , Nguyen Huu Tuan , Hirose Satomi , Kim Seunggyu , Floryan Marie A. , Barbie David A. , Hodi F. Stephen , Kamm Roger D.
Published: May 2024

Endothelial programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression is higher in tumors than in normal tissues. Also, tumoral vasculatures tend to be leakier than normal vessels leading to a higher trans‐endothelial or transmural fluid flow. However, it is not clear whether such elevated transmural flow can control endothelial PD‐L1 expression. Here, a new microfluidic device is developed to investigate the relationship between transmural flow and PD‐L1 expression in microvascular networks (MVNs). After treating the MVNs with transmural flow for 24 h, the expression of PD‐L1 in endothelial cells is upregulated. Additionally, CD8 T cell activation by phytohemagglutinin (PHA) is suppressed when cultured in the MVNs pre‐conditioned with transmural flow. Moreover, transmural flow is able to further increase PD‐L1 expression in the vessels formed in the tumor microenvironment. Finally, by utilizing blocking antibodies and knock‐out assays, it is found that transmural flow‐driven PD‐L1 upregulation is controlled by integrin αVβ3. Overall, this study provides a new biophysical explanation for high PD‐L1 expression in tumoral vasculatures.
Bi Nanospheres Embedded in N‐Doped Carbon Nanowires Facilitate Ultrafast and Ultrastable Sodium Storage
Authors: Yao Qian , Zheng Cheng , Liu Kejun , Wang Mingyue , Song Jinmei , Cui Lifeng , Huang Di , Wang Nana , Dou Shi Xue , Bai Zhongchao , Yang Jian
Published: May 2024

Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are considered as the ideal candidates for the next generation of electrochemical energy storage devices. The major challenges of anode lie in poor cycling stability and the sluggish kinetics attributed to the inherent large Na+ size. In this work, Bi nanosphere encapsulated in N‐doped carbon nanowires (Bi@N‐C) is assembled by facile electrospinning and carbonization. N‐doped carbon mitigates the structure stress/strain during alloying/dealloying, optimizes the ionic/electronic diffusion, and provides fast electron transfer and structural stability. Due to the excellent structure, Bi@N‐C shows excellent Na storage performance in SIBs in terms of good cycling stability and rate capacity in half cells and full cells. The fundamental mechanism of the outstanding electrochemical performance of Bi@N‐C has been demonstrated through synchrotron in‐situ XRD, atomic force microscopy, ex‐situ scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and density functional theory (DFT) calculation. Importantly, a deeper understanding of the underlying reasons of the performance improvement is elucidated, which is vital for providing the theoretical basis for application of SIBs.
Calcium Alginate Core–Shell Liquid Beads Encapsulated with Microalgae for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Tran Du Tuan , Nguyen Nhat‐Khuong , Yadav Ajeet Singh , Chuang Ann , Burford Michele , Galogahi Fariba Malekpour , Sreejith Kamalalayam Rajan , Nguyen Nam‐Trung
Published: May 2024

Liquid beads are core–shell particles with a liquid core and a solid shell. Calcium alginate liquid beads have been emerging as a promising platform for cell encapsulation. These beads have demonstrated their capability of encapsulating and culturing a wide range of human cells for tissue engineering. However, a significant research gap remains in the application of alginate liquid beads for encapsulating photosynthetic microorganisms. Herein, fast‐growing microalgae strain Chlorella vulgaris is encapsulated into calcium alginate liquid beads to facilitate the removal of nutrients from wastewater, minimizing the risk of eutrophication. Liquid bead‐microalgae systems are prepared, using different calcium ion concentrations as crosslinking ions. It has been thoroughly characterized for their morphologies, cell growth patterns, nutrient removal capabilities, and overall stability throughout the wastewater treatment process, with upflow anaerobic sludge blanket effluent as the wastewater model. The results indicate that the liquid bead‐microalgae system with the highest calcium ion concentration (5%) performs more efficiently, exhibiting a well‐formed crosslinking structure, leading to rapid cell growth with the highest cell density and the most effective removal of nutrients. The findings from this study provide valuable insights for future optimization and upscaling efforts in wastewater treatment systems based on calcium alginate liquid beads.
SMAD4 mosaicism in juvenile polyposis: Essential contribution of somatic analysis in diagnosis
Authors: Vautier Sabine , Mauillon Jacques , Parodi Nathalie , Bou Jacqueline , Kasper Edwige , Manase Sandrine , Houdayer Claude , Baert‐Desurmont Stéphanie
Published: May 2024

Juvenile polyposis syndrome (JPS) is a rare disease characterized by multiple hamartomatous polyps in the gastrointestinal tract, associated with pathogenic variants of BMPR1A and SMAD4. We present the description of SMAD4 mosaicism in a 30‐year‐old man who had caecum adenocarcinoma, 11 juvenile colon polyps and epistaxis since childhood. We conducted NGS polyposis and CRC panel analysis on DNA extracted from two polyps, revealing a likely pathogenic SMAD4 variant: NM_005359.5:c. 1600C>T, p.(Gln534*). This variant was then identified at a very low frequency on blood and normal colonic tissue, by targeted visualization of previously obtained NGS data. These findings support the presence of a likely pathogenic mosaic SMAD4 variant that aligns with the patient's phenotype. Given the relatively frequent occurrence of de novo SMAD4 mutations, somatic mosaicism could account for a significant proportion of sporadic JPS patients with unidentified pathogenic variants. This case underscores the diagnosis challenge of detecting mosaicism and emphasizes the importance of somatic analyses.
Acute alcohol intoxication presenting acquired lesion of the corpus callosum in a young healthy woman: A case of possible Marchiafava–Bignami disease
Authors: Watanabe Makoto , Atagi Nobuhito , Makino Yosuke , Kooguchi Kunihiko , Ohta Bon
Published: May 2024

Background

Marchiafava–Bignami disease is a rare neurological disease characterized by acquired lesions of the corpus callosum. Although the major causative etiology is chronic alcoholism, a case caused by acute alcohol intoxication has not yet been reported.

Case Presentation

A 19‐year‐old female with no known medical history or a history of chronic alcohol consumption was brought to the emergency department in a coma after binge alcohol consumption. Even after an overnight observation, she remained comatose. After a thorough examination including magnetic resonance imaging, which showed lesions of the corpus callosum, she was treated with thiamine for Marchiafava–Bignami disease. She recovered completely and at the follow‐up, the callosum lesion had resolved.

Conclusion

This is a rare case within the spectrum of Marchiafava–Bignami disease caused by acute consumption of alcohol. Clinicians should be aware of this potentially devastating critical condition among patients with severe alcohol intoxication, which might have been overlooked.
Gold‐Catalysed Heck Reaction: Fact or Fiction? Correspondence on “Unlocking the Chain Walking Process in Gold Catalysis”
Authors: Budzelaar Peter H. M. , Bochmann Manfred , Landrini Martina , Rocchigiani Luca
Published: May 2024

Two recent high‐profile publications reported the formation of Heck‐type arylated alkenes catalysed by MeDalPhosAuCl/AgOTf (J. Am. Chem. Soc. 2023, 145, 8810) and their cyclisation to tetralines (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2023, e202312786). It was claimed that these were the first demonstrations in gold catalysis of alkene insertion into Au‐aryl bonds, β‐H elimination and chain‐walking by Au−H dications. We show here that in fact this chemistry is a two‐stage process. Only the first step, the production of an alkyl triflate ester as the primary organic product by the well‐known alkene heteroarylation sequence, involves gold. The subsequent formation of Heck‐type olefins and their cyclisation to tetralines represent classical H+‐triggered carbocationic chemistry. These steps proceed in the absence of gold with identical results. Literature claims of new gold reactivity such as chain walking by the putative [LAuH]2+ dication have no basis in fact.
Solvation Properties of Neutral Gold Species in Supercritical Water Studied By THz Spectroscopy
Authors: Noetzel Jan , Schienbein Philipp , Forbert Harald , Marx Dominik
Published: May 2024

Supercritical water provides distinctly different solvation properties compared to what is known from liquid water. Despite its prevalence deep in the Earth's crust and its role in chemosynthetic ecosystems in the vicinity of hydrothermal vents, molecular insights into its solvation mechanisms are still very scarce compared to what is known for liquid water. Recently, neutral metal particles have been detected in hydrothermal fluids and proposed to explain the transport of gold species to ore deposits on Earth. Using ab initio molecular dynamics, we elucidate the solvation properties of small gold species at supercritical conditions. The neutral metal clusters themselves contribute enormous THz intensity not because of their intramolecular vibrations, but due to their pronounced electronic polarization coupling to the dynamical supercritical solvent, leading to a continuum absorption up to about 1000 cm−1. On top, long‐lived interactions between the gold clusters and solvation water leads at these supercritical conditions to a sharp THz resonance that happens to be close to the one due to H‐bonding in liquid water at ambient conditions. The resulting distinct resonances can be used to analyse the solvation properties of neutral metal particles in supercritical aqueous solutions.
Total Synthesis of Lissodendoric Acid A
Authors: Ippoliti Francesca M. , Wonilowicz Laura G. , Adamson Nathan J. , Darzi Evan R. , Donaldson Joyann S. , Nasrallah Daniel J. , Mehta Milauni M. , Kelleghan Andrew V. , Houk K. N. , Garg Neil K.
Published: May 2024

We describe a full account of our synthetic strategy leading to the first total synthesis of the manzamine alkaloid lissodendoric acid A . These efforts demonstrate that strained cyclic allenes are valuable synthetic building blocks and can be employed efficiently in total synthesis.
Synthesis and characterization of new Ce doped‐semiconductor nanocomposite with high specific capacitance
Authors: Hashemibagha Mehri , Alemi Abdolali , Tadjarodi Azadeh
Published: May 2024

In this study, we introduce an effective strategy to prepare electrodes containing new nanocomposites with high specific capacity. This research led to the preparation of CoFe2‐xCexO4/rGO‐Pani nanocomposite with an extraordinary specific capacitance of 3257.83 F·g−1 (at 10 mV·s−1), a power density of 349.951 W/kg, and an energy density of 3.52 Wh/kg. Also, electrical conductivity studies for new nanocomposite showed good electrical conductivity and better semiconducting properties compared with its similar compounds. Also, the synthesized compounds were characterized and identified by other analyses. FT‐IR analysis for reduced graphene oxide showed that graphene oxide was well reduced. It also confirmed the presence of Ce‐O for both CoFe2‐xCexO4/rGO‐Pani and CoFe2O4‐CeO2/rGO‐Pani magnetic nanocomposites. XRD analysis confirmed the crystal structure for rGO, CoFe2‐xCexO4/rGO‐Pani, and CoFe2O4‐CeO2/rGO‐Pani. VSM analysis was done to check the magnetic properties of the nanocomposite, and the magnetic values were measured as expected. In the following, morphological studies and the uniformity of distribution of elements in magnetic nanocomposite were carried out with FE‐SEM and Map, respectively.
The multi‐stage gasification process of low‐rank coal samples from gravity separation process
Authors: Mai Thuan Duc , Sebe Emese , Koós Tamás , Kállay András Arnold
Published: May 2024

The separation process is a well‐established method for beneficiation technologies of low‐rank coal, especially in the case of utilization in the thermochemical processes. In this study, three coal samples, including the original low‐rank coal sample and two coal samples (C1 and C2) from the gravity separation process of the original coal sample, were gasified in a multi‐stage gasification process at the gasification temperature of 900°C and the steam‐to‐carbon (S/C) ratio of 1.00 and 1.25. The separation process led to a significant improvement in the quality of coal samples. This improvement is particularly characterized by a higher carbon and volatile fractions and a lower ash content compared with the original coal. This could be the main reason for the higher gasification performance in the case of the experiment of C1 and C2 coal samples. The volume of syngas obtained from gasification experiments of C1 and C2 samples increased between 1.3 and 1.5 times that of the original coal sample. At all S/C ratios and 900°C, the gasification experiment of the C2 sample produced the highest produced gas yield followed by the gasification experiment of the C1 sample. From the chemical point of view, the produced gas had an H2/CO ratio close to the desired ratio of 2.00, which is suitable for chemical synthesis processes. In the case of C1 sample experiments, the H2/CO ratios were 2.11 and 2.18 at S/C ratios of 1.00 and 1.25, respectively. For the experiments of the C2 sample, the H2/CO ratio reached 1.88 and 2.00 at S/C ratios of 1.00 and 1.25, respectively.
A novel intralamellar semi‐bioresorbable keratoprosthesis—Part A: Design conception, material perspective, and device manufacturing
Authors: Sunka Krishna Chaitanya , Byram Prasanna Kumar , Paikkattil Nidhin , Chaudhuri Bhaskar Ray , Dhara Santanu
Published: May 2024

Corneal diseases are a significant cause of visual impairment and blindness. The first‐line treatment for corneal opacity is penetrating keratoplasty (human donor cornea transplantation). At present, keratoprosthesis (KPro), an artificial cornea, is the last resort for correcting end‐stage corneal blindness and is usually supported by donor tissue. This article describes a new intralamellar tissue‐free KPro design concept and its preparation method. Wherein, an injection‐molding route is adopted to create a mechanically and structurally stable near‐KPro geometry using a photo‐polymerized poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (pHEMA) with 4% Bisphenol A dimethacrylate (BisMA) crosslinked (PC4) hydrogel composition. Prior to this, the physico‐mechanical properties of crosslinked hydrogels matching corneal tissue are identified, and the surface morphological characteristics of silk cocoon membranes are ascertained in choosing suitable KPro materials. Cytocompatibility tests on PC4 and silk‐incorporated PC4 hydrogels using rabbit corneal fibroblast cell‐line evidenced enhancement in cell growth on silk‐PC4 surfaces. Furthermore, near KPro geometry is surface‐profiled to create a one‐of‐a‐kind design with clear optics and a silk‐bioactivated composite‐based haptic‐flange hydrogel network containing site‐specific submillimeter‐scale perforations to improve tissue integration. Considering this unique KPro geometry, the optic‐haptic‐flange construct is a tissue‐free semi‐bioresorbable hydrogel device presumed to provide stability under the influence of intraocular pressure (IOP) and eyelid shear. Through this study, it is identified new KPro materials facilitate significant cytocompatibility while complimented with site‐specific novel design would offer tissue ingrowth with gradual resorption of silk, leaving behind a stable intralamellar tissue integrated with hydrogel when implanted in the corneal niche.
The development of high‐strength, anticorrosive, and strongly adhesive polyaspartate polyurea coating suitable for pipeline spray repairs
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Du Mingrui , Fang Hongyuan , Zhao Peng , Yao Xupei , Chen Shiao
Published: May 2024

This study synthesized polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)‐modified polyaspartate polyurea (PPPU) with different ratios, considering the practical performance requirements of underground water supply pipeline spray repair materials. The successful synthesis of PPPU was confirmed using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer (FTIR) spectroscopy. The influence of the ratio of the two components and the content of ‐aminopropyl terminated polydimethylsiloxane (APT‐PDMS) on the drying time and tensile performance of PPPU coatings was evaluated. Based on this evaluation, a superior ratio for PPPU coatings was proposed. Subsequently, the bonding performance, hydrophobicity, and corrosion resistance of PPPU coatings at the superior ratio were tested. The results indicate that as the mass ratio of polyaspartic acid ester to hexamethylene diisocyanate trimer increases, both the drying time and tensile strength of the coating decrease. The addition of APT‐PDMS results in a decrease in the tensile strength of PPPU, but an increase in its elongation at break. The peak value of elongation at break is achieved when the APT‐PDMS content is 5%, making the PPPU2‐1‐5 coating the superior ratio for spray application on water supply pipelines. Through experiments, it was determined that the bonding strength of the PPPU2‐1‐5 coating with cement mortar under dry and humid conditions, static water contact angle (93.4°), and corrosion resistance performance are superior to those of the unmodified polyurea coating, demonstrating its application advantages. The conclusions drawn in this study provide a theoretical foundation for the practical engineering application of PPPU.
Inclusive global scholarly communication: Toward a just and healthier information ecosystem
Authors: Ford Angel Y. , Alemneh Daniel G.
Published: May 2024

Scholarly communication has long been a central topic in the field of information science. However, philosophical, and even perhaps some legal reflections, including the moral and ethical considerations of the health of information ecosystems, are fairly recent developments. In fact, recent topics are propelled by various contextual factors including economic, disciplinary, societal norms, and cultures. This article explores literature discussing the plight of scholars in low‐ and middle‐income countries that struggle to engage in scholarly communications in their fields. This topic has been explored for years, however, has often been addressed in disciplines outside of information science and knowledge management. This study posits that critical investigations lift this issue to one of justice and suggest a new critical lens that would rely on several existing lenses, including those developed to expand epistemic injustice, as well as exploring areas and perspectives that have not yet found their way into the mainstream literature. The analysis provides alternative approaches and discourse around the democratization of scholarly communications, all toward achieving a just and healthier global information ecosystem.
Capturing CO2 through High Surface Area Activated Carbon Derived from Seed Shells of Balanites Aegyptiaca
Authors: Asmaly Hamza A. , Khalil Abdullah , Hakeem Abbas Saeed , Mohammed Ardelshifa M. E.
Published: May 2024

Activated carbon is an attractive adsorbent for capturing various environmental pollutants, including CO2. Herein, an optimal synthesis and impressive performance of activated carbon made from Balanites aegyptiaca (Desert date) seed shells is reported, which is an abundant agricultural waste in the Middle East and Africa. The synthesis route involved pretreating the biomass with KOH and heating it under a suitable temperature profile. An optimal KOH‐to‐biomass ratio and multi‐stage carbonization yielded activated carbon with a surface area above 3000 m2/g and an average pore size of nearly 4.1 nm. At 0 °C, this activated carbon exhibited CO2 uptake of 11.3 mmol g−1 that surpassed the uptake capacity of previously reported activated carbons. The selectivity towards CO2 was also found to be significantly higher compared to other gases. Thus, the present approach demonstrates an efficient conversion of agricultural waste to activated carbon for capturing CO2 and other environmental contaminants.
Metal Ion Responsive Luminescent Bio‐Templated Co‐Assemblies: Label‐Free Detection of Multi‐Metal Ions in Aqueous Media
Authors: Hiremath Sharanabasava D. , Kumar Nitish , Banerjee Supratim
Published: May 2024

Recently, anionic bio‐templates have emerged as promising platforms for designing dynamic and stimuli‐responsive chromophoric assemblies capable of light harvesting in aqueous media thereby mimicking natural photosynthesis. Here, we present multi‐metal ion‐responsive luminescent co‐assemblies between cationic pyrene‐imidazolium amphiphile and anionic bio‐templates (ATP, heparin, and DNA) in aqueous media. The anionic bio‐templates enhance Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) in the co‐assemblies, with pyrene serving as an excellent donor for generating tunable multi‐luminescent materials with embedded acceptor dyes. However, a significant loss in energy transfer towards acceptor dyes was observed in the presence of various metal ions, attributed to excimeric emission quenching facilitated by electron transfer between the pyrene chromophore and metal ions. Interestingly, detailed studies revealed that only ATP‐based co‐assemblies exhibited quenching phenomena in the presence of metal ions, contrasting with heparin and ctDNA co‐assemblies. Additionally, label‐free detection of multi‐metal ions in aqueous environments, such as Fe2+, Fe3+, and Cu2+ ions, was successfully achieved with lower detection limits of 0.01 μM (3 ppb), 0.12 μM (30 ppb), and 0.58 μM (150 ppb) respectively. These co‐assemblies hold significant promise for practical applications in environmental and biomedical sensing, enabling sensitive monitoring of metal ion concentrations.
Accelerated failure time frailty model for modeling multiple systems subject to minimal repair
Authors: Pereira Edilenia Queiroz , Junior Oilson Alberto Gonzatto , Tomazella Vera Lucia Damasceno , Morita Lia Hanna Martins , Mota Alex L. , Louzada Neto Francisco
Published: May 2024

This article presents accelerated failure time models with and without frailty for modeling multiple systems subject to minimal repair. The study considers the conventional accelerated failure time model, the accelerated failure time model with Gamma frailty, and proposes the accelerated failure time model with weighted Lindley frailty, which has attractive properties such as a closed‐form Laplace transform. The proposed model extends the accelerated failure time model with the intensity function of a power law process. It retains the direct physical interpretation of the original accelerated failure time model, in which the role of covariates is to accelerate or decelerate the time to each repair. This framework includes parametric approaches to model fitting, which we consider for estimating the vector of regression parameters under this model and the parameter in the baseline intensity functions. The methodology is illustrated with a simulation study and a toy example to demonstrate the applicability of these models in the industrial context.
Proud to Be Dishonest: Emotional Consequences of Altruistic Versus Egoistic Dishonesty
Authors: Shuster Shaked , Eyal Tal , Ayal Shahar , Moran Simone
Published: May 2024

We explore and demonstrate the anticipated and actual emotions that are experienced by individuals who engage in dishonest behaviors that benefit others (altruistic dishonesty) versus the self (egoistic dishonesty), and primarily focus on the positive emotion of pride. Across three preregistered experiments (one scenario experiment and two incentivized behavioral ones), we found that engaging in altruistic dishonesty was not only more prevalent than egoistic dishonesty but also evoked more pride and less guilt and shame. Interestingly, the increase in pride and decrease in guilt and shame when cheating solely for the benefit of others were attenuated when participants cheated for the benefit of both others and themselves. These findings shed further light on the emotional processes involved in dishonesty and highlight the understudied role of pride. The positive association between engaging in altruistic dishonesty and pride may explain the relatively high rates of altruistic dishonesty observed in the current and previous studies, as it suggests that having an altruistic justification may not only enable cheaters to maintain a clear conscience but also even boost how they feel about themselves.
The influence of solvent refractive index on the photoluminescence decay of thick‐shell gradient‐alloyed colloidal quantum dots investigated in a wide range of delay times
Authors: Zatryb Grzegorz , Adamski Adrian , Chrzanowski Maciej , Żak Andrzej M. , Podhorodecki Artur
Published: May 2024

Colloidal semiconductor quantum dots have many potential optical applications, including quantum dot light‐emitting diodes, single‐photon sources, or biological luminescent markers. The optical properties of colloidal quantum dots can be affected by their dielectric environment. This study investigated the photoluminescence (PL) decay of thick‐shell gradient‐alloyed colloidal semiconductor quantum dots as a function of solvent refractive index. These measurements were conducted in a wide range of delay times to account for both the initial spontaneous decay of excitons and the delayed emission of excitons that has the form of a power law. It is shown that whereas the initial spontaneous PL decay is very sensitive to the refractive index of the solvent, the power‐law delayed emission of excitons is not. Our results seem to exclude the possibility of carrier self‐trapping in the considered solvents and suggest the existence of trap states inside the quantum dots. Finally, our data show that the average exciton lifetime significantly decreases as a function of the solvent refractive index. The change in exciton lifetime is qualitatively modeled and discussed.
Real‐world safety and effectiveness of anamorelin for cancer cachexia: Interim analysis of post‐marketing surveillance in Japan
Authors: Takayama Koichi , Kojima Ai , Honda Chikara , Nakayama Masahiro , Kanemata Satomi , Endo Toshimitsu , Muro Kei
Published: May 2024

Background

Anamorelin was approved in Japan in 2021 to treat cancer cachexia associated with non‐small cell lung, gastric, pancreatic, or colorectal cancers. Post‐marketing surveillance is being conducted to evaluate the real‐world safety and effectiveness of anamorelin.

Methods

This prospective, observational surveillance registered all patients who started treatment with anamorelin after April 21, 2021. Hyperglycemia, hepatic impairment, conduction disorders, and their associated adverse events related to treatment were defined as main safety specifications. Body weight (BW) and appetite were assessed as effectiveness specifications.

Results

This analysis was based on data as of January 21, 2023. The safety and effectiveness analysis sets included 6016 and 4511 patients, respectively. Treatment‐related adverse events in ≥1% of patients were hyperglycemia (3.9%) and nausea (2.6%). The incidences of hyperglycemia, hepatic impairment, conduction disorders, and their associated adverse events related to treatment were 4.8%, 1.2%, and 1.1%, respectively. The mean changes (standard error [SE]) in BW from baseline to weeks 3, 12, 24, and 52 were 0.64 (0.05) kg, 1.19 (0.12) kg, 1.40 (0.21) kg, and 1.42 (0.39) kg, respectively. The mean changes (SE) in Functional Assessment of Anorexia/Cachexia Treatment 5‐item Anorexia Symptom Scale total scores from baseline to weeks 3, 12, 24, and 52 were 3.2 (0.09), 4.8 (0.18), 5.2 (0.30), and 5.3 (0.47), respectively, exceeding the clinically meaningful improvement score (2.0 points).

Conclusion

The overall safety of anamorelin raised no new safety concerns, although continued caution may be required for hyperglycemia and nausea. Improvements in BW and appetite were also observed in real‐world clinical settings.
Current Progress on Dual‐Layer Hollow Fiber Mixed‐Matrix Membrane in CO2 Capture
Authors: Zeeshan Muhammad Hamad , Yeong Yin Fong , Chew Thiam Leng
Published: May 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas which is mainly found in natural gas (NG), biogas, and flue gas. Anthropogenic CO2 emissions are the direct result of burning fossil fuels. Meanwhile, pre‐ and postcombustion CO2 separation is a current state of CO2 removal method in an extensive manner. From environmental, economic, and transportation perspectives, removal of CO2 has driven the development of its separation process technology. Among the reported technologies, membrane‐based gas separation technologies have grown substantially, breakthroughs and advances in past decades. This review paper aims to provide an overview on competitive gas separation processes, different types of membranes available, gas transport mechanisms, and fabrication process of hollow fiber membranes, particularly dual‐layer hollow fiber membrane. The performance of the membranes in CO2 separation and effect of spinning parameters on the formation of hollow fiber membranes are highlighted. In addition, approaches to improve the dual‐layer adhesion, strategies to enhance the filler compatibility in the development of dual‐layer hollow fiber mixed‐matrix membranes, and effect of post‐treatments on the gas separation performance of membrane are also discussed. Finally, challenges and future perspectives of dual‐layer hollow fiber mixed‐matrix membranes toward CO2 capture, particularly on CO2/CH4 and CO2/N2 separation, are also included, due to its substantial and direct relevance to the gas separation industry.
Cytokine storm modulation using cholecalciferol and low dose gamma radiation in Escherichia coli infected mice
Authors: Abdel‐Hamid Gehan R. , Mostafa Dalia M. , Fathy Rasha M. , Lotfy Dina M. , Osman Soheir
Published: May 2024

This work investigates the efficiency of cholecalciferol and low dose gamma radiation in modulating cytokine storm through their impact on inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokine and protecting against lung and liver injuries. Male Swiss albino mice were exposed to 0.2 Gy gamma radiation/week for four consecutive weeks then injected intraperitoneally (i.p) with a single dose of 8.3 × 106 CFU Escherichia coli/g b.w. then injected i.p. with 1.0 mg/kg cholecalciferol (Vit D3) for 7 days starting 4 h after E. coli injection. The results revealed that Cholecalciferol and low dose gamma radiation caused significant depletion in the severity of E. coli infection (colony forming unit per milliliter), log10 of E. coli, Tumor necrosis factor alpha, Interleukin 6, VEGF, alanine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase levels and significant elevation in IL‐10, IL‐4, and HO‐1. Immunohistochemical analysis of caspase‐3 expression in lung tissue section showed low caspase‐3 expression in cholecalciferol and low dose gamma radiation treated group. Histopathological examinations were performed in both lung and liver tissues which also emphasis the biochemical findings. Our results exhibit the importance of cholecalciferol and low dose gamma radiation in improving liver function and providing anti‐inflammatory response in diseases causing cytokine storm.
Unsuccessful laparoscopic resection of a large pelvic solitary fibrous tumor: A case report
Authors: Shao Xuping , Zhang Haomeng , Wang Yanqiu , Li Changzhong , Wan Jipeng , Zou Yonghui
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

We present a rare case of a female pelvic solitary fibrous tumor unsuccessfully resected using single‐port laparoscopy, requiring conversion to laparotomy. Although the resection was successful, the surgical approach could have been improved. For large tumors, minimally invasive results are possible with flexible choices of equipment and incision position.
Pedicle ossification after fibular flap reconstruction of maxillary defects: A case report and literature review
Authors: Zou Bo
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

The phenomenon of vessel pedicle ossification is a noteworthy aspect of the repair and reconstruction of maxillofacial defects. Imaging findings typically reveal high‐density shadows within the vascular pedicle pathway, which may be managed through conservative observation or surgical intervention as deemed appropriate.

Vessel pedicle ossification is a relatively uncommon complication associated with the reconstruction of oral and maxillofacial tissue defects using free tissue flap repair. In this paper, we report a case of pedicle ossification and conduct a comprehensive review of previous literature. A 39‐year‐old man presented with a limited ability to open his mouth 6 months after fibular flap reconstruction of the mandible. Plain film X‐ray and computed tomography (CT) indicated pedicle ossification. Two years after the initial operation, the restriction in the patient's ability to open his mouth had not worsened, although there were more pronounced radiographic abnormalities.
Arthrogryposis, renal dysfunction, cholestasis syndrome with a novel mutation in two siblings
Authors: Rehman Rahiya , Gonzalez Leslia , Kolbe Kelsey , Faizan Mohammed Khurram , Brucker William , Cerezo Carolina
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

This current case series adds to the spectrum of Arthrogryposis renal dysfunction cholestasis (ARC)‐associated variants. Increased awareness and early genetic testing for ARC are suggested in cases with failure to thrive, renal tubular dysfunction, and rickets, even when the degree of cholestasis is mild. Prompt identification and intervention may improve the quality of life.
Overcoming Challenges in Electrosynthesis Using High‐Throughput Electrochemistry: Hypervalent Iodine‐Mediated Phenol Dearomatization, a Case Study
Authors: Juneau Antoine , Abdolhosseini Marzieh , Rocq Camille , Pham Hanh D. M. , Pascall Mia , Khaliullin Rustam Z. , Canesi Sylvain , McCalla Eric , Mauzeroll Janine
Published: May 2024

Despite many recent efforts, the field of organic electrosyn‐thesis faces important challenges due to the intricate nature of heterogeneous redox processes, the wide parameter space to be explored and the lack of standardized methods. To overcome these limitations, we developed a cost‐effective high‐throughput electrochemical (HTE) reactor capable of running 24 individually controlled parallel reactions. This system allows the rapid testing of electrochemical parameters on a given reaction, assessing not only yield but also reproducibility. Using the hypervalent iodine‐mediated dearomatization of phloretic acid as a demonstration of HTE capabilities, we ran more than 200 electrosyntheses in different experimental conditions and demonstrate the effect of parameters such as total charge transferred, current, electrode materials, electrolyte formulation and concentration, mediator formulation and concentration and electrochemical technique of oxidation. Notably, this report demonstrates that while catalytic amounts of iodine mediator can be used successfully, the reproducibility may be affected, which calls for a cautious approach when developing similar transformations. Using cyclic voltammetry, density functional theory, chronopotentiometry, and Raman spectroscopy, we shed light on the causes of this issue.
Gaining Insights into the Interplay between Optical and Magnetic Properties in Photoexcited Coordination Compounds
Authors: Braun Jonas , Powell Annie K. , Unterreiner Andreas‐Neil
Published: May 2024

We describe early and recent advances in the fascinating field of combined magnetic and optical properties of inorganic coordination compounds and in particular of 3d–4f single molecule magnets. We cover various applied techniques which allow for the correlation of results obtained in the frequency and time domain in order to highlight the specific properties of these compounds and the future challenges towards multidimensional spectroscopic tools. An important point is to understand the details of the interplay of magnetic and optical properties through performing time‐resolved studies in the presence of external fields especially magnetic ones. This will enable further exploration of this fundamental interactions i. e. the two components of electromagnetic radiation influencing optical properties.
Interaction of C60 with Methylammonium Lead Iodide Perovskite Surfaces: Unveiling the Role of C60 in Surface Engineering
Authors: George Gibu , Posada‐Pérez Sergio
Published: May 2024

Understanding the interaction between fullerene (C60) and perovskite surfaces is pivotal for advancing the efficiency and stability of perovskite solar cells. In this study, we investigate the adsorption behavior of C60 on methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) surfaces using periodic density functional theory calculations. We explore various surface terminations and defect configurations to elucidate the influence of surface morphology on the C60‐perovskite interaction, computing the adsorption energy and transfer of charge. Our results reveal distinct adsorption energies and charge transfer mechanisms for different surface terminations, shedding light on the role of surface defects in modifying the electronic structure and stability of perovskite materials. Furthermore, we provide insights into the potential of C60 to passivate surface defects, playing a relevant role in the surface reconstruction after the formation of defects. This comprehensive understanding of C60‐perovskite interactions offers valuable guidelines about the role of fullerenes on surface structure and reconstruction.
Tunable Optical Anisotropy in Rare‐Earth Borates with Flexible [BO3] Clusters
Authors: Long Xiangyu , An Ran , Lv Yan , Wu Xueyan , Mutailipu Miriding
Published: May 2024

Borates have garnered a lot of attention in the realm of solid‐state chemistry due to their remarkable characteristics, in which the synthesis of borates with isolated [BO3] by adding rare‐earth elements is one of the main areas of structural design study. Five new mixed‐metal Y‐based rare‐earth borates, Ba2ZnY2(BO3)4, KNa2Y(BO3)2, Li2CsY4(BO3)5, LiRb2Y(BO3)2, and RbCaY(BO3)2, have been discovered using the high‐temperature solution approach. Isolated [BO3] clusters arranged in various configurations comprise their entire anionic framework, allowing for optical anisotropy tuning between 0.024 and 0.081 under 1064 nm. In this study, we characterize the relative placements of their [BO3] groups and examine how their structure affects their characteristics. The origin of their considerable optical anisotropy has been proven theoretically. This study unequivocally demonstrates that even a slight alteration to borates′ anionic structure can result in a significant improvement in performance.
New methods for resolution of hydroxychloroquine by forming diastereomeric salt and adding chiral mobile phase agent on RP‐HPLC
Authors: Chen Chen , Peng Yangfeng , Wei Yongming , Liu Mengyuan , Wang Yu , Xiong Siqi , Li Huiyi , He Quan
Published: May 2024

Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), 2‐([4‐([7‐Chloro‐4‐quinolyl]amino)pentyl]ethylamino)ethanol, exhibited significant biological activity, while its side effects cannot be overlooked. The RP‐HPLC enantio‐separation was investigated for cost‐effective and convenient optical purity analysis of HCQ. The thermodynamic resolution of Rac‐HCQ, driven by enthalpy and entropy, was achieved on the C18 column using Carboxymethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (CM‐β‐CD) as the chiral mobile phase agent (CMPA). The effects of CCM‐β‐CD, pH, and triethylamine (TEA) V% on the enantio‐separation process were explored. Under the optimum conditions at 24°C, the retention times for the two enantiomers were and , resulting in . The resolution via diastereomeric salt formation of Rac‐HCQ was developed to obtain the active pharmaceutical ingredient of single enantiomer S‐HCQ. Di‐p‐Anisoyl‐L‐Tartaric Acid (L‐DATA) was proved effective as the resolution agent for Rac‐HCQ. Surprisingly, it was found that refluxing time was a key fact affecting the resolution efficiency, which meant the kinetic dominate during the process of the resolution. Four factors—solvent volume, refluxing time, filtration temperature, and molar ratio—were optimized using the single‐factor method and the response surface method. Two cubic models were established, and the reliability was subsequently verified. Under the optimal conditions, the less soluble salt of 2L‐DATA:S‐HCQ was obtained with a yield of 96.9% and optical purity of 63.0%. The optical purity of this less soluble salt increases to 99.0% with a yield of 74.2% after three rounds recrystallization.
Ein Überblick zum Recycling und zur Verwertung glasfaserverstärkter Kunststoffe
Authors: Milek Magdalena , Fuhrmann Sindy
Published: May 2024

Faserverbundmaterialien sind Schlüsselkomponenten in Zukunftstechnologien. Daraus resultiert eine stark ansteigende Nachfrage und es sind steigende Abfallmengen zu erwarten. Das Faserverbundmaterialrecycling ist seit einigen Jahren ein intensiv erforschtes Themengebiet. Den größten Anteil bilden mit 95 Gew.‐% glasfaserverstärkte Kunststoffe. In diesem Übersichtsartikel liegt der Fokus auf der Wiederverwertung glasfaserverstärkter Kunststoffe. Deren Effektivität und Anwendbarkeit werden beurteilt und der aktuelle Stand der Forschung wird zusammengefasst.