bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
More than one‐half of the variance in in vivo proton MR spectroscopy metabolite estimates is common to all metabolites
Authors: Prisciandaro James J. , Zöllner Helge J. , Murali‐Manohar Saipavitra , Oeltzschner Georg , Edden Richard A. E.
Published: January 2023

The present study characterized associations among brain metabolite levels, applying bivariate and multivariate (i.e., factor analysis) statistical methods to total creatine (tCr)‐referenced estimates of the major Point RESolved Spectroscopy (PRESS) proton MR spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) metabolites (i.e., total NAA/tCr, total choline/tCr, myo‐inositol/tCr, glutamate + glutamine/tCr) acquired at 3 T from medial parietal lobe in a large (n = 299), well‐characterized international cohort of healthy volunteers. Results supported the hypothesis that 1H‐MRS–measured metabolite estimates are moderately intercorrelated (Mr = 0.42, SDr = 0.11, ps < 0.001), with more than one‐half (i.e., 57%) of the total variability in metabolite estimates explained by a single common factor. Older age was significantly associated with lower levels of the identified common metabolite variance (CMV) factor (β = −0.09, p = 0.048), despite not being associated with levels of any individual metabolite. Holding CMV factor levels constant, females had significantly lower levels of total choline (i.e., unique metabolite variance; β = −0.19, p < 0.001), mirroring significant bivariate correlations between sex and total choline reported previously. Supplementary analysis of water‐referenced metabolite estimates (i.e., including tCr/water) demonstrated lower, although still substantial, intercorrelations among metabolites, with 37% of total metabolite variance explained by a single common factor. If replicated, these results would suggest that applied 1H‐MRS researchers shift their analytical framework from examining bivariate associations between individual metabolites and specialty‐dependent (e.g., clinical, research) variables of interest (e.g., using t‐tests) to examining multivariable (i.e., covariate) associations between multiple metabolites and specialty‐dependent variables of interest (e.g., using multiple regression).
Bidirectional effects of voluntary exercise on the expression of Bdnf isoforms in the hippocampus of Hatano rat strains displaying different activity levels
Authors: Chiba Shuichi , Asano Hikaru , Moriya Shogo , Hatakeyama Taichi , Kobayashi Shohei , Ohta Ryo , Kawaguchi Maiko
Published: January 2023

Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor has functional mRNA isoforms, whose expression is assumed to mediate the beneficial effects of exercise in neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aims to reveal the mechanism of intensity‐dependent effects of voluntary exercise, focusing on the expression of Bdnf mRNA isoforms in Hatano rats. Animals with different voluntary activity were housed in cages with a locked or unlocked wheel for 5 weeks. The expression levels of Bdnf isoforms and the corresponding coding sequences (CDS) were measured in the hippocampus using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). We found that exercise increased the expression of Bdnf isoform containing exon 1 in the high‐intensity‐running strain and decreased the expressions of Bdnf exon 1, 3, 6, 7, 8, and 9a in mild‐intensity‐running animal. The expression of Bdnf CDS was increased by exercise in both strains. These results suggest that expressions of Bdnf isoforms depend on the intensities of voluntary exercise, but the involvement of subjects' genetic background could not be excluded. Our finding also implies that the bidirectional effects of exercise may not be mediated via the final product of Bdnf.
Towards an open innovation ecosystem in the cultural industry: The bright side of trust and the dark side of measurement
Authors: Dianova Vera , Miniero Giulia , Suleiman David
Published: January 2023

The concept of open innovation ecosystems is receiving increasing attention in academic literature, but its application to the cultural industries and, more specifically, to philanthropically‐funded cultural initiatives, remains a largely unexplored domain. This study, leveraging on in‐depth interviews with stakeholders, observation and immersion in the field, employs primary qualitative data from a philanthropically‐funded cultural initiative and applies the ecosystem‐as‐structure conceptual framework to study the factors that have enabled a nascent open innovation ecosystem in the cultural industries to emerge. Findings point to a number of essential components and characteristics of the emergent ecosystem that are crucial elements of success in the view of key stakeholders. The findings consequently shed light on the managerial practices and strategy that facilitate the success of a philanthropically‐funded artistic initiative which fosters the creation of a new open innovation arts ecosystem.
Synthesis of Bis(3‐indolyl)methanes Mediated by Potassium tert‐Butoxide
Authors: Santos A. Sofia , Ferro Rita D. , Viduedo Nuno , Maia Luísa B. , Silva Artur M. S. , Marques M. Manuel B.
Published: January 2023

The indole moiety is an important N‐heterocycle found in natural products, and a key structural component of many value‐added chemicals including pharmaceuticals. In particular, bis(3‐indolyl)methanes (BIMs) are an important subgroup of indoles, composed of two indole units. Herein, we report the development of a simple method to access BIMs derivatives in yields of up to 77 % by exploiting a tBuOK‐mediated coupling reaction of indoles and benzyl alcohols.
Rotamerism and tautomerism in hydrazone derivatives of ethylacetoacetate: Spectroscopic features, Hammett relationships, and computational calculations
Authors: Zamanloo Mohammad Reza , Salmanzadeh Rogayeh , Esrafili Mehdi D. , Seyednoruziyan Bahareh , Imanzadeh Gholamhassan H. , Eskandari Habibollah
Published: January 2023

Hydrazone derivatives ofβ‐dicarbonyl compounds illustrate an integrated configurational and conformational changes, which make them be considered as probe in disclosing H‐bonding importance in hydrogen transfer and switching. The ethyl‐3‐oxo‐butanoate derivatized hydrazones were synthesized by Japp–Klingemann reaction and were characterized in view of chromatographic and spectroscopic behavior employing thin layer chromatography, infrared (IR), ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐vis), and1H and13C nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) techniques. Conformational isomerization between two possible rotamers along with their tautomeric forms was identified and investigated in detail regarding to resonance‐assisted H‐bonding (RAHB) concept by the referred spectroscopic measurements. Furthermore, substituent impacts were assessed using the acquired spectroscopic data and evaluated for structure–property correlation on the base of Hammett relationships. All of the hydrazone derivatives were found to equilibrate in acetone solution, and more of them existed in one rotameric form in solid state. The aryl substituents influence the intermolecular and intramolecular interactions differently, because the derivatives could be isolated as two distinct crystals only in a few members. Moreover, the RAHB concept was found to stabilize the conformational isomers of the hydrazone derivatives to different degrees leading to distinct equilibrium constant. Quantum chemical calculations (DFT/B3LYP) were also used to characterize the nature of the RAHB and examine the rotameric transformation process and substituent impacts on the rotamerization equilibrium.
Impact of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) membranes pretreatments on their physicochemical properties and fuel cell performances
Authors: Daoudi Meriem , Ferri Evelise , Tougne Claire , El Kaddouri Assma , Perrin Jean‐Christophe , Dillet Jérôme , Gonon Laurent , Mareau Vincent , Mendil‐Jakani Hakima , Dufaud Veronique , Espuche Eliane , Lottin Olivier
Published: January 2023

This work focuses on the impact of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (sPEEK) membrane pretreatments on fuel cell performance, starting from two different batches of Fumapem E730 from Fumatech, acquired in 2019 and in 2020. sPEEK membranes are possible lower cost alternatives to perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes for proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) applications. Before use, they must be pretreated to ensure a complete protonic substitution and removal of residual reagents/solvent: the simplest protocol consists in soaking the membrane in an acid solution followed by a rinsing step in water. In addition to this acidification step, hydrothermal (HT) treatments in water at high temperature for a few hours to a few days were also considered herein, as well as a hydro‐alcoholic (HA) step, because of their expected effects on membrane nanostructure. Overall, four different protocols were used. The membrane water uptake, water self‐diffusion, proton conductivity, and fuel cell performance—under H2/O2—were measured. It was found that in the best case—membranes from the 2020 batch subjected to HA followed by 72 h HT pretreatments—the fuel cell performances exceeded those obtained with a PFSA membrane (Nafion XL). This is explained by a higher protonic conductivity, probably resulting from a better sPEEK nano‐structuration.
A case‐control study of the effects of Aspergillus clinical phenotypes on pulmonary functions in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Nayir Buyuksahin Halime , Dogru Deniz , Emiralioglu Nagehan , Ademhan Tural Dilber , Özsezen Beste , Sunman Birce , Guzelkaş Ismail , Alboğa Didem , Arikan‐Akdagli Sevtap , Sarıbaş Zeynep , Gulmez Dolunay , Alp Alpaslan , Hazırolan Gülşen , Soyer Özge , Şekerel Bülent Enis , İnam Gözde , Irmak İlim , Damadoğlu Ebru , Kalyoncu Fuat , Yalçın Ebru , Ozcelik Ugur , Kiper Nural
Published: January 2023

Introduction

There are no precise data about the effect of Aspergillus infection on lung function other than allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA) in patients with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). Here, we aimed to determine clinical phenotypes caused by Aspergillus spp. using laboratory and immunologic parameters and to compare Aspergillus phenotypes in terms of pulmonary function tests (PFT) prospectively.

Methods

Twenty‐three pwCF who had Aspergillus isolation from respiratory cultures in the last year (case group) and 20 pwCF without Aspergillus isolation in sputum (control group) were included. Aspergillus immunoglobulin (Ig)‐G, Aspergillus IgE, Aspergillus polymerase chain reaction (PCR), galactomannan, total IgE from blood samples, and Aspergillus PCR and galactomannan from sputum, and skin prick test reactivity to Aspergillus antigen were used to distinguish different Aspergillus phenotypes. Pulmonary functions and frequency of pulmonary exacerbations were evaluated during a 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

Of 23 pwCF, 11 (47.8%) had Aspergillus colonization, nine (39.1%) had Aspergillus bronchitis, and three (13%) had ABPA. Aspergillus infection was not associated with worse z‐scores of forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1) (p = 0.612), forced vital capacity  (p = 0.939), and the median FEV 1% decline (0.0%/year vs. −4.7%/year, p = 0.626). The frequency of pulmonary exacerbations in the Aspergillus infected and noninfected groups was similar.

Conclusion

Although Aspergillus spp. Isolation in pwCF was not associated with decreased lung function, a further decline was seen in the ABPA subgroup, and frequent pulmonary exacerbations during the 1‐year follow‐up.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of the curcumin and piperine combination on lipid profile in patients with metabolic syndrome and related disorders
Authors: Hosseini Hossein , Ghavidel Farideh , Panahi Ghodratollah , Majeed Muhammed , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: January 2023

Metabolic syndrome is characterized by multiple metabolic disorders. Several studies indicated that curcumin plus piperine could affect lipids profiles in various diseases. The present meta‐analysis aims to assess the effect of curcumin plus piperine on lipid profiles in patients with MetS and associated disorders using a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials. Trials were searched by several electronic databases up to May 2022. The Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis (CMA) version3 software carried out this systematic review and meta‐analysis. Random‐effects model and the inverse variance method were used to conduct the meta‐analysis. We evaluated the publication bias and heterogeneity of all eligible studies. In addition, subgroup analyses and sensitivity assessments were performed to assess potential sources of heterogeneity. The combined results by the random‐effects model demonstrated that curcumin plus piperine significantly decreased total cholesterol and LDL‐C in patients suffering from metabolic syndrome. In comparison, the results of the overall effect size did not show any significant change in triglyceride concentrations. Our results were robust in sensitivity analysis and were not dependent on the dose of curcumin, the dose of piperine, and the duration of treatment. Our results showed that co‐administration of piperine and curcumin supplementation improves the lipid profile in metabolic syndrome. However, further long‐term RCTs are required to ascertain their clinical benefit.
Integrating spatial dependence into functional clustering of NDVI in the Ecuadorian Andes
Authors: Chuquin Jeysson , Maigua Alexandra , Flores Miguel , Mateu Jorge , Torres Sandra , Zapata‐Ríos Xavier
Published: January 2023

Spatial dependence into environmental data is an influential criterion in clustering processes, as the resulting clustering outputs depend very much upon such spatial structure. As classical methods do not take spatial dependence in consideration, the inclusion of this structure produces unexpected but more realistic results and clusters of curves that may not be similar in shape or behavior. In this paper, clustering is made using the KMSCFD algorithm for spatially correlated functional data. The methodology was developed through weighting the distance matrix between the curves with the trace‐variogram calculated with the coefficients of the basis functions resulting from a data smoothing operation. For the validation of the method, a number of simulated scenarios were tested together with an application to Normalized Difference Vegetation Index data derived from a high elevation ecosystem in the Ecuadorian Andes. Quality indices are implemented to obtain the appropriate number of clusters. The analysis showed five different regions that were latitudinally distributed.
Minimally invasive microsurgical decompression of the lumbar spine using a novel robotised digital microscope: A preliminary experience
Authors: Rossini Zefferino , Tropeano Maria Pia , Franzini Andrea , Bono Beatrice C. , Raspagliesi Luca , Fornari Maurizio , Pessina Federico
Published: January 2023

Background

The operative microscope (OM) represents, to date, the standard for neurosurgical procedures. However, new technologies have been proposed during the latest years to overcome its limitations, from high‐quality exoscopes to complex robotised visualisation systems. We report our preliminary experience with a novel digital robotised microscope, the BHS RoboticScope (RS), for minimally invasive spinal surgery.

Methods

We employed the RS in five consecutive patients who underwent bilateral lumbar spine decompression through a monolateral approach. Patient outcomes, device technical characteristics and the surgeon's personal perspectives have been evaluated.

Results

No complications occurred. All procedures were concluded without switching to the microscope. Image quality, lightning, depth perception and freedom of movement were judged satisfactory as compared to the standard microscope.

Conclusion

The easy maneuverability and the high quality of pictures provided by the RS device improve the surgeon's comfort in deep fields, representing an effective option for minimally invasive spinal procedures.
Synthesis of Acrylate‐Functionalized Polyglycerols and an Investigation of their UV Curing Behaviors
Authors: You A‐Rang , Kim Jeong‐Yeon , Ryu Sang‐Woog
Published: January 2023

In this study, hyperbranched polyglycerol (HPG) is synthesized via ring‐opening polymerization of a glycidol monomer. An epoxy group is introduced at the end of HPG through a reaction with epichlorohydrin in a one‐pot process. The number of epoxy groups introduced increase proportional to the amount of boron‐trifluoride‐tetrahydrofuran catalyst used. In addition, acrylate‐functionalized polyglycerol (AG) is synthesized via a reaction of the epoxy group with an acrylic acid, and a maximum of 5.7 acrylate groups are introduced per molecule. AG shows photocuring behavior with the photoinitiator Irgacure 819, while viscosity is adjusted from 18 to 2947 cPs by introducing up to 80 wt% 2‐hydroxyethyl acrylate (2‐HEA). Diluted resin can cure over 97 wt% even with a short UV irradiation period of 20 s. Furthermore, hydrophilicity increases proportional to the amount of 2‐HEA added, and water absorption can be controlled in the range of 30–124 wt%.
Hepta‐nuclear Zinc Tungstophosphate Nano‐cluster [Zn7(H2O)2(OH)2P2W25O94]16−: Synthesis, Characterization and its Catalytic Application in Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Das Vivek , Hussain Firasat
Published: January 2023

A new hepta‐nuclear Zinc tungstophosphate nano‐cluster of formula K14[Zn7(H2O)2(OH)2P2W25O94]Zn(H2O)4 ⋅ 35H2O (1 a) was synthesized under environment‐friendly conditions in a one‐pot reaction procedure. The isolated crystalline compound was synthesized by reacting Zn(NO3)2 ⋅ 6H2O with the potassium salt of tungstophosphate precursor, K14[P2W19O69(H2O)] ⋅ 24H2O in the presence of Ce(NO3)3 ⋅ 6H2O in a solution of potassium chloride. The synthesized compound was characterized by instrumentation techniques such as fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, single crystal X‐ray diffraction (SC‐XRD), 31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), powder X‐ray diffraction (P‐XRD) and energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) spectroscopy.The compound also shows a good catalytic activity for the oxidation of alcohols.
Diversity Oriented Approach to New Tetrahedral Building Blocks by Ring‐Closing Metathesis
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Solanke Balaji U.
Published: January 2023

We disclose an approach to a library of novel multidimensional O‐heterocycles based on a rigid, tetrahedral core. New derivatives of tetraphenylmethane (TPM) have been synthesized by employing Claisen rearrangement (CR) and ring‐closing metathesis (RCM) as key steps. Mono‐, di‐, tri‐, and tetra‐substituted benzofurans, 2H‐chromenes, and benzoxepine derivatives are reported. Various heterocyclic cores present in these compounds are key structural elements present in several natural products and pharmaceuticals as well as valuable precursors for the construction of complex molecules with the tetrahedral framework. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report involving the synthesis of five‐, six‐, and seven‐membered O‐heterocycles in TPM core and the basecatalyzed inexpensive synthesis of several isomerized intermediates that are useful to prepare oxacycles such as benzofuran and 2H‐chromenes. The symmetrical and unsymmetrical one, two, three, and four‐armed architecture of TPM makes it a valuable starting point for building complex molecular and supramolecular architectures. To expand the unmet chemical space of the TPM core, we have prepared twenty new derivatives by a unified approach. Additionally, we report a simple, catalyst‐free, and inexpensive recipe for double bond isomerization based on KOtBu to assemble various oxacycles derived from different trityl chloride derivatives.
Coping and depressive symptoms in family carers of dependent adults aged 18 and over: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Muñoz‐Cruz Juan Carlos , López‐Martínez Catalina , Orgeta Vasiliki , Del‐Pino‐Casado Rafael
Published: January 2023

Being a family carer is associated with increased risk of experiencing depressive symptoms. Despite many decades of research investigating the association between coping strategies and depressive symptoms in carers results across studies remain contradictory. The objective of this study was to systematically review evidence on the association between depressive symptoms and coping strategies in carers of dependent people aged 18 and over and investigate potential sources of heterogeneity of findings. The study design was a systematic review and meta‐analysis. We searched Pubmed, CINAHL, PsycINFO and LILACS up to April 2021. We performed meta‐analyses following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement and several subgroup analyses to investigate whether cause of caring dependency, study design, and controlling for several biases influenced results. Fifty‐nine studies met our inclusion criteria. We found a robust and statistically significant association between greater use of dysfunctional coping and higher depressive symptoms. Greater use of emotion‐focussed coping was associated with fewer depressive symptoms only in studies controlling for confounding bias. Use of problem‐focussed coping was related to fewer depressive symptoms in carers of frail older people. The combined use of both problem‐focussed and emotion‐focussed coping was associated with lower symptoms of depression. Our review concludes that the broad domain of dysfunctional coping is consistently associated with higher levels of depressive symptoms in carers. After controlling for confounders, emotion‐focussed coping and several of its individual strategies were consistently associated with fewer depressive symptoms. Whilst problem‐focussed coping and some of its individual strategies are also associated with lower depressive symptoms, these strategies may not be as helpful in all caregiving groups.
Who depends on why: Toward an endogenous, purpose‐driven mechanism in organizations' reference selection
Authors: Luger Johannes
Published: January 2023

Research Summary

This paper investigates how firms select reference organizations, that is, other firms to which they compare themselves. We question the exogenous nature of references (i.e., them being defined via industry‐categorizations) but suggest that, via motivations or purposes, firms endogenously select them. We evaluate our findings when analyzing proprietary data on hotels' self‐selection of comparison‐hotels. In support of our arguments, we find that in situations of increased uncertainty regarding firms' own relative abilities and standing, firms make adjustments to their selected references toward more similar ones. This enables them to obtain more diagnostic information about their relative abilities and this effect holds constant of (exogenous) industry‐entry or exit events. Our findings contribute to an updated understanding about the role of comparison organizations in firms' decision‐making.

Managerial Summary

Prior work shows that comparisons with other firms (i.e., references) play an important role for our understanding of firms' decision‐making. For example, performance comparisons with references can trigger search or a decision‐need, ultimately, leading to acquisition‐decisions, new‐product‐introductions, and the like. When questioning the selection of such references, prior work has typically derived them from (exogenous) industry‐categorizations. We review this practice by relying on rare, longitudinal data on firms' reference self‐selection. When controlling for industry level effects, we find that firms adapt references as a function of changes in their comparison needs (e.g., self‐assessment). This is important because it implies an endogenous reference selection mechanism and shifts the attention from industry‐categorizations toward an understanding of comparison needs and their emergence when attempting to understand firms' decision‐making.
Gradient Type‐II CdSe/CdSeTe/CdTe Core/Crown/Crown Heteronanoplatelets with Asymmetric Shape and Disproportional Excitonic Properties
Authors: Shabani Farzan , Martinez Pedro Ludwig Hernandez , Shermet Nina , Korkut Hilal , Sarpkaya Ibrahim , Dehghanpour Baruj Hamed , Delikanli Savas , Isik Furkan , Durmusoglu Emek Goksu , Demir Hilmi Volkan
Published: January 2023

Characterized by their strong 1D confinement and long‐lifetime red‐shifted emission spectra, colloidal nanoplatelets (NPLs) with type‐II electronic structure provide an exciting ground to design complex heterostructures with remarkable properties. This work demonstrates the synthesis and optical characterization of CdSe/CdSeTe/CdTe core/crown/crown NPLs having a step‐wise gradient electronic structure and disproportional wavefunction distribution, in which the excitonic properties of the electron and hole can be finely tuned through adjusting the geometry of the intermediate crown. The first crown with staggered configuration gives rise to a series of direct and indirect transition channels that activation/deactivation of each channel is possible through wavefunction engineering. Moreover, these NPLs allow for switching between active channels with temperature, where lattice contraction directly affects the electron–hole (e–h) overlap. Dominated by the indirect transition channels over direct transitions, the lifetime of the NPLs starts to increase at 9 K, indicative of low dark‐bright exciton splitting energy. The charge transfer states from the two type‐II interfaces promote a large number of indirect transitions, which effectively increase the absorption of low‐energy photons critical for nonlinear properties. As a result, these NPLs demonstrate exceptionally high two‐photon absorption cross‐sections with the highest value of 12.9 × 106 GM and superlinear behavior.
Evolution of Carbonate‐Intercalated γ‐NiOOH from a Molecularly Derived Nickel Sulfide (Pre)Catalyst for Efficient Water and Selective Organic Oxidation
Authors: Ghosh Suptish , Dasgupta Basundhara , Kalra Shweta , Ashton Marten L. P. , Yang Ruotao , Kueppers Christopher J. , Gok Sena , Alonso Eduardo Garcia , Schmidt Johannes , Laun Konstantin , Zebger Ingo , Walter Carsten , Driess Matthias , Menezes Prashanth W.
Published: January 2023

The development of a competent (pre)catalyst for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) to produce green hydrogen is critical for a carbon‐neutral economy. In this aspect, the low‐temperature, single‐source precursor (SSP) method allows the formation of highly efficient OER electrocatalysts, with better control over their structural and electronic properties. Herein, a transition metal (TM) based chalcogenide material, nickel sulfide (NiS), is prepared from a novel molecular complex [NiII(PyHS)4][OTf]2 (1) and utilized as a (pre)catalyst for OER. The NiS (pre)catalyst requires an overpotential of only 255 mV to reach the benchmark current density of 10 mA cm−2 and shows 63 h of chronopotentiometry (CP) stability along with over 95% Faradaic efficiency in 1 m KOH. Several ex situ measurements and quasi in situ Raman spectroscopy uncover that NiS irreversibly transformed to a carbonate‐intercalated γ−NiOOH phase under the alkaline OER conditions, which serves as the actual active structure for the OER. Additionally, this in situ formed active phase successfully catalyzes the selective oxidation of alcohol, aldehyde, and amine‐based organic substrates to value‐added chemicals, with high efficiencies.
Activity Regulating Strategies of Nanozymes for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ding Xiaoteng , Zhao Zhen , Zhang Yanfang , Duan Meilin , Liu Chengzhen , Xu Yuanhong
Published: January 2023

On accounts of the advantages of inherent high stability, ease of preparation and superior catalytic activities, nanozymes have attracted tremendous potential in diverse biomedical applications as alternatives to natural enzymes. Optimizing the activity of nanozymes is significant for widening and boosting the applications into practical level. As the research of the catalytic activity regulation strategies of nanozymes is boosting, it is essential to timely review, summarize, and analyze the advances in structure–activity relationships for further inspiring ingenious research into this prosperous area. Herein, the activity regulation methods of nanozymes in the recent 5 years are systematically summarized, including size and morphology, doping, vacancy, surface modification, and hybridization, followed by a discussion of the latest biomedical applications consisting of biosensing, antibacterial, and tumor therapy. Finally, the challenges and opportunities in this rapidly developing field is presented for inspiring more and more research into this infant yet promising area.
Heteroatom Doped Amorphous/Crystalline Ruthenium Oxide Nanocages as a Remarkable Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Dandan , Wu Zeyi , Liu Jiajia , Gu Hongfei , Li You , Li Xueyan , Liu Shan , Liu Shange , Zhang Jiatao
Published: January 2023

Developing robust and highly active bifunctional electrocatalysts for overall water splitting is critical for efficient sustainable energy conversion. Herein, heteroatom‐doped amorphous/crystalline ruthenium oxide‐based hollow nanocages (M‐ZnRuOx (MCo, Ni, Fe)) through delicate control of composition and structure is reported. Among as‐synthesized M‐ZnRuOx nanocages, Co‐ZnRuOx nanocages deliver an ultralow overpotential of 17 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a small Tafel slope of 21.61 mV dec−1 for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), surpassing the commercial Pt/C catalyst, which benefits from the synergistic coupling effect between electron regulation induced by Co doping and amorphous/crystalline heterophase structure. Moreover, the incorporation of Co prevents Ru from over‐oxidation under oxygen evolution reaction (OER) operation, realizing the leap from a monofunctional to multifunctional electrocatalyst and then Co‐ZnRuOx nanocages exhibit remarkable OER catalytic activity as well as overall water splitting performance. Combining theory calculations with spectroscopy analysis reveal that Co is not only the optimal active site, increasing the number of exposed active sites while also boosting the long‐term durability of catalyst by modulating the electronic structure of Ru atoms. This work opens a considerable avenue to design highly active and durable Ru‐based electrocatalysts.
Minimal Architecture Lithium Batteries: Toward High Energy Density Storage Solutions
Authors: Celè Jacopo , Franger Sylvain , Lamy Yann , Oukassi Sami
Published: January 2023

The coupling of thick and dense cathodes with anode‐free lithium metal configuration is a promising path to enable the next generation of high energy density solid‐state batteries. In this work, LiCoO2 (30 µm)/LiPON/Ti is considered as a model system to study the correlation between fundamental electrode properties and cell electrochemical performance, and a physical model is proposed to understand the governing phenomena. The first cycle loss is demonstrated to be constant and independent of both cathode thickness and anode configuration, and only ascribed to the diffusion coefficient's abrupt fall at high lithium contents. Subsequent cycles achieve close to 100% coulombic efficiency. The examination of the effect of cathode thickness demonstrate a nearly linear correlation with areal specific capacity for sub‐100 µm LiCoO2 and 0.1 mA cm−2 current density. These findings bring new insights to better understand the energy density limiting factors and to suggest potential optimization approaches.
Automated Multi‐ and Block‐Copolymer Writing in Mesoporous Films Using Visible‐Light PET‐RAFT and a Microscope
Authors: Förster Claire , Lehn Robert , Andrieu‐Brunsen Annette
Published: January 2023

For high throughput applications, e.g., in the context of sensing especially when being combined with machine learning, large sample numbers in acceptable production time are required. This needs automated synthesis and material functionalization concepts ideally combined with high precision. To automate sensing relevant mesopore polymer functionalization while being highly precise in polymer placement, polymer amount control, and polymer sequence design, a process for polymer writing in mesoporous silica films with pore diameter in the range of 13 nm is developed. Mesoporous films are functionalized with different polymers in adjustable polymer amount including block‐copolymer functionalization in an automated process using a visible‐light induced, controlled photo electron/energy transfer‐reversible addition‐fragmentation chain‐transfer (PET‐RAFT) polymerization. While transferring this PET‐RAFT to a commercially available microscope, direct, automated laser writing of three different polymers, as well as polymer re‐initiation is demonstrated. Using a laser diameter of ≈72 µm, significantly smaller polymer spots of ≈7 µm in diameter are realized. Micrometerscale resolved polymer images including block‐copolymers are written into mesoporous layers covering millimeter scale areas requiring a writing time in the range of one second per polymer spot.
Effects of Xanthan Gum Addition and Extrusion Parameters on Properties of Starch‐Based Fried Corn Extrudates
Authors: Gümüşay Özlem Aktürk , Sadıkoğlu Hasan , Şeker Mahmut
Published: January 2023

Starch‐based corn grits are extruded and then the extrudates are fried to development for corn snacks with low oil content, improved texture, and preserved color characteristics. Effects of screw speed (100–300 rpm), feed moisture (37–47%), and xanthan gum (XG) level (0–1%) on expansion, oil absorption, hardness, color, and microstructural properties of fried extrudates are examined. Increased screw speed increases expansion index (EI) due to enhanced starch gelatinization. Elevated feed moisture content increases EI as a result of the low solubility index of starch‐based extrudates. The oil absorption of extrudates increases as screw speed and moisture content are elevated as a result of holes in the surface after frying. On the other hand, the incorporation of XG decreases oil absorption due to reduced holes on the surface. Hardness values range from 7.58 ± 0.47 to 42.26 ± 1.44 N. Increasing moisture content decreases the hardness of fried extrudates while increasing screw speed results inan increase in hardness. The incorporation of XG increases the hardness of extrudates. Increased screw speed, feed moisture, and XG ratio increase the lightness value and decrease the redness value. Browning index (BI) is decreased with an increase in feed moisture and XG level.
Research Progress on Biological Activities of Polysaccharides from Edible Fungus
Authors: Sang Yumei , Han Xunze , Gao Yuchao , Hao Zitong , Zeng Yuan , Dai Shasha , Xue Hongkun
Published: January 2023

Edible fungus is widely eaten because of their delicious taste and high nutritional value. Growing evidence indicates that edible fungus is rich in various active ingredients including polysaccharides, proteins, fats, vitamins, and other ingredients. Polysaccharides are one of the main active ingredients of edible fungi. Increasing research has confirmed that edible fungus polysaccharides (EFPs) show multiple biological activities such as antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐tumor, immune regulation, anti‐virus, gut microbiota regulation, hypoglycemic, etc. Hence, EFP related research has received more and more attention due to their non‐toxic, high medical, and nutritional values. This paper reviews the latest research progress of EFPs biological activities, and looks forward to their future development trend. This review provides a theoretical basis for studying the application of EFPs in the fields of biomedicine, cosmetics, health food, and promotes the development and utilization of EFPs.
Dealing with stress at work
Authors: Kirby Roger
Published: January 2023

In this editorial, Professor Roger Kirby, Editor‐in‐Chief of Trends in Urology and Men's Health, reflects on the negative impact of stress on health care professionals and shares useful stress management techniques.
Analysis of mRNA Subcellular Distribution in Collective Cell Migration
Authors: Bradbury Joshua J. , Lovegrove Holly E. , Giralt-Pujol Marta , Herbert Shane P.
Published: January 2023

The movement of groups of cells by collective cell migration requires division of labor between group members. Therefore, distinct cell identities, unique cell behaviors, and specific cellular roles are acquired by cells undergoing collective movement. A key driving force behind the acquisition of discrete cell states is the precise control of where, when, and how genes are expressed, both at the subcellular and supracellular level. Unraveling the mechanisms underpinning the spatiotemporal control of gene expression in collective cell migration requires not only suitable experimental models but also high-resolution imaging of messenger RNA and protein localization during this process. In recent times, the highly stereotyped growth of new blood vessels by sprouting angiogenesis has become a paradigm for understanding collective cell migration, and consequently this has led to the development of numerous user-friendly in vitro models of angiogenesis. In parallel, single-molecule fluorescent in situ hybridization (smFISH) has come to the fore as a powerful technique that allows quantification of both RNA number and RNA spatial distribution in cells and tissues. Moreover, smFISH can be combined with immunofluorescence to understand the precise interrelationship between RNA and protein distribution. Here, we describe methods for use of smFISH and immunofluorescence microscopy in in vitro angiogenesis models to enable the investigation of RNA and protein expression and localization during endothelial collective cell migration.
Approaches to Determine Nuclear Shape in Cells During Migration Through Collagen Matrices
Authors: Svoren Martin , Camerini Elena , van Erp Merijn , Yang Feng Wei , Bakker Gert-Jan , Wolf Katarina
Published: January 2023

Fibrillar collagen is an abundant extracellular matrix (ECM) component of interstitial tissues which supports the structure of many organs, including the skin and breast. Many different physiological processes, but also pathological processes such as metastatic cancer invasion, involve interstitial cell migration. Often, cell movement takes place through small ECM gaps and pores and depends upon the ability of the cell and its stiff nucleus to deform. Such nuclear deformation during cell migration may impact nuclear integrity, such as of chromatin or the nuclear envelope, and therefore the morphometric analysis of nuclear shapes can provide valuable insight into a broad variety of biological processes. Here, we describe a protocol on how to generate a cell-collagen model in vitro and how to use confocal microscopy for the static and dynamic visualization of labeled nuclei in single migratory cells. We developed, and here provide, two scripts that (Fidler, Nat Rev Cancer 3(6):453–458, 2003) enable the semi-automated and fast quantification of static single nuclear shape descriptors, such as aspect ratio or circularity, and the nuclear irregularity index that forms a combination of four distinct shape descriptors, as well as (Frantz et al., J Cell Sci 123 (Pt 24):4195–4200, 2010) a quantification of their changes over time. Finally, we provide quantitative measurements on nuclear shapes from cells that migrated through collagen either in the presence or the absence of an inhibitor of collagen degradation, showing the distinctive power of this approach. This pipeline can also be applied to cell migration studied in different assays, ranging from 3D microfluidics to migration in the living organism.
The geometric νSMEFT: operators and connections
Authors: Talbert Jim
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We write down a geometric realization of the Standard Model Effective Field Theory (SMEFT) extended by nf flavours of light sterile neutrinos, a so-called geoνSMEFT. As with the geoSMEFT introduced by Helset, Martin and Trott, we show that a refactorization of the νSMEFT’s operator product expansion is possible, such that two- and three-point composite operator forms are dressed with field-space connections composed of towers of Higgs dressings and symmetry generators, valid at all-orders in the $$ {\overline{v}}_T/\Lambda $$

v
¯

T

/
Λ
expansion parameter of the EFT $$ \left({\overline{v}}_T\equiv \sqrt{2\left\langle {H}^{\dagger }H\right\rangle}\right) $$

v
¯

T

≡

2

H
†

H

. These connections are parameterized by real Higgs coordinates and contribute to the field-space geometry of the (ν)SMEFT, with structure linked to the strength of Beyond-the-(ν)Standard Model physics encoded in $$ {\overline{v}}_T/\Lambda $$

v
¯

T

/
Λ
. In addition to enumerating the relevant composite operators and associated connections, we briefly outline the route to calculating all-$$ {\overline{v}}_T/\Lambda $$

v
¯

T

/
Λ
-orders amplitudes, including the flavor-invariant theory required to understand the neutrino mass-eigenstate basis geometrically.
Detection of antibodies against the huntingtin protein in human plasma
Authors: Denis Hélèna L. , Alpaugh Melanie , Alvarez Claudia P. , Fenyi Alexis , Barker Roger A. , Chouinard Sylvain , Arrowsmith Cheryl H. , Melki Ronald , Labib Richard , Harding Rachel J. , Cicchetti Francesca
Published: January 2023

Huntington’s disease (HD) is a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder resulting from a CAG expansion in the huntingtin (HTT) gene, which leads to the production and accumulation of mutant huntingtin (mHTT). While primarily considered a disorder of the central nervous system, multiple changes have been described to occur throughout the body, including activation of the immune system. In other neurodegenerative disorders, activation of the immune system has been shown to include the production of antibodies against disease-associated pathological proteins. However, the existence of mHTT-targeted antibodies has never been reported. In this study, we assessed the presence and titer of antibodies recognizing HTT/mHTT in patients with HD (n = 66) and age- and gender-matched healthy controls (n = 66) using a combination of Western blotting and ELISA. Together, these analyses revealed that antibodies capable of recognizing HTT/mHTT were detectable in the plasma samples of all participants, including healthy controls. When antibody levels were monitored at different disease stages, it was observed that antibodies against full-length mHTT were highest in patients with severe disease while antibodies against HTTExon1 were elevated in patients with mild disease. Combined, these results suggest that antibodies detecting different forms of mHTT peak at different disease stages.
A pivot-based simulated annealing algorithm to determine oblique splits for decision tree induction
Authors: Bollwein Ferdinand
Published: January 2023

We describe a new simulated annealing algorithm to compute near-optimal oblique splits in the context of decision tree induction. The algorithm can be interpreted as a walk on the cells of a hyperplane arrangement defined by the observations in the training set. The cells of this hyperplane arrangement correspond to subsets of oblique splits that divide the feature space in the same manner and the vertices of this arrangement reveal multiple neighboring solutions. We use a pivoting strategy to iterate over the vertices and to explore this neighborhood. Embedding this neighborhood search in a simulated annealing framework allows to escape local minima and increases the probability of finding global optimal solutions. To overcome the problems related to degeneracy, we rely on a lexicographic pivoting scheme. Our experimental results indicate that our approach is well-suited for inducing small and accurate decision trees and capable of outperforming existing univariate and oblique decision tree induction algorithms. Furthermore, oblique decision trees obtained with this method are competitive with other popular prediction models.
The economic impact of the first wave of the pandemic on 50+ Europeans
Authors: Bonfatti Andrea , Pesaresi Greta , Weber Guglielmo , Zambon Nancy
Published: January 2023

We analyse the effects of the first wave of the COVID-19 crisis on the economic situation of 50+ Europeans. We construct a financial distress indicator that captures experiencing an income loss, difficulties to make ends meet and the need to postpone payments. We find that education and income before the pandemic has a protective role, and so does being past retirement age. For households under retirement age, instead, the pandemic has exacerbated inequalities. We also investigate whether households report worse difficulties in making ends meet compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. We show that their ability to make ends meet worsens more with income losses during the pandemic compared to losses experienced in the two-year period before the pandemic.
Suizide im Kindes- und Jugendalter
Authors: Falge S. , Radeloff D. , Dreßler J.
Published: January 2023

Hintergrund

Suizide stellen in Westeuropa nach Verkehrsunfällen den zweit- oder drittgrößten Anteil an Todesfällen von Kindern, Jugendlichen und Heranwachsenden dar und sind eine extreme Belastung für die Hinterbliebenen.

Methodik

In der anonymisierten Datenanalyse wurden nichtnatürliche Todesfälle von Kindern, Jugendlichen und Heranwachsenden im Einzugsgebiet des Instituts für Rechtsmedizin Leipzig, Sachsen, im Zeitraum 1998–2017 analysiert. Suizide wurden auf die Häufigkeit bezüglich des Geschlechts und der Methode hin untersucht und ihr Zusammenhang mit Alkohol- oder Drogenkonsum und psychiatrischen Erkrankungen dargestellt.

Ergebnisse

Es zeigten sich signifikant mehr männliche als weibliche Suizidenten (p < 0,05). Keiner von ihnen war jünger als 12 Jahre. Als häufigste Suizidmethode erwies sich der Bahnsuizid (27 %), gefolgt von Sturz aus großer Höhe (22 %), Intoxikation (21 %) und Erhängen (12 %). Es zeigte sich ein signifikanter Zusammenhang zwischen Suiziden und positiven toxikologischen Befunden (X2 = 27,16; p < 0,001), und es konnten Hinweise auf psychiatrische Erkrankungen bei Suizidenten herausgearbeitet werden.

Schlussfolgerungen

Substanzmissbrauch und psychiatrische Erkrankungen sind mit Suiziden bei Kindern, Jugendlichen und Heranwachsenden assoziiert. Eine besondere Bedeutung wird in diesem Kontext psychiatrischen Erkrankungen beigemessen, da diese das Suizidrisiko stark erhöhen können. Eine große Rolle in der Suizidprävention spielt das soziale Umfeld. Dieses kann durch rechtzeitiges Erkennen möglicher Vorzeichen – beispielsweise Veränderung des Verhaltens, Verletzungen oder Substanzkonsum – entscheidend aktiv werden.
New food, new technology: innovative spreadable cream with strawberry syrup
Authors: de Lima Gabriela Basto , Ganhão Sofia , Ruivo Paula , Oliveira M. Adelaide , Macedo Antónia , Brandão Carlos , Guerra Manuela , Morgado Cátia , Alves Marco , Henriques Marília
Published: January 2023

A strawberry spreadable cream was developed, valorizing regional raw materials, contributing to food waste reduction and agri-food ecosystem sustainability. Spreadable creams are water-in-oil emulsions whose lipid phase normally contains a blend of vegetable oils, natural colourants, stabilizers, emulsifiers, flavourings, antioxidants, lecithin, and fat-soluble vitamins. The aqueous phase normally contains skim milk proteins and small quantities of other ingredients, such as salt, preservatives, thickeners, and water-soluble vitamins. The methodology involved the experimental technological development articulated with microbiological, proximal, physicochemical, and sensorial analysis. This new product revealed nutritional advantages over similar products already on the market. The final prototype was subjected to food pairing and food design with incremental acceptance according to gastronomic use, in addition to its direct use as a spreadable cream. This work was part of the project Agrio et Emulsio—new products development (POCI-01-0145-FEDER-023583), whose main objective was the formulation and design of innovative food emulsions based on processed raw materials, with potential application in certain markets such as gourmet, diet, and vegan.