bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Synthesis of An Aluminosilicate POS Zeolite with Intersecting 12×11×11‐Member‐Ring Pore Channels by Using a Designed Organic Structure‐Directing Agent
Authors: Cai Xianshu , Zhao Yue , Zhang Jun , Zi Wenwen , Tao Shuo , Jiao Feng , Du Hongbin
Published: April 2022

Large and extra‐large pore zeolites have been widely applied in industrial areas as catalysts, adsorbents, etc. Among them, silica and/or aluminosilicate zeolites have been attracted great attention due to their excellent hydrothermal stability and strong acidity. However, a great deal of zeolite structures are still not available in the form of silica and/or aluminosilicate. Herein, we report the synthesis of pure silica and aluminosilicate large‐pore zeolites, denoted as NUD‐14 and Al‐NUD‐14, respectively, by using a designed cation 1‐ethyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium as an organic structure‐directing agent (OSDA). NUD‐14 has an intersecting 12×11×11‐member ring pore system, which is isostructural to the germanosilicate PUK‐16 zeolite with a POS topology. The OSDAs can be completely removed from the framework by calcination. NUD‐14 and Al‐NUD‐14 possess excellent acid and hydrothermal stabilities, superior to the germanosilicate POS zeolite. The incorporation of Al into the zeolite framework makes the Al‐NUD‐14 zeolite possess medium and strong acidities. The successful synthesis of NUD‐14 consisting of a rare odd‐member ring pore structure may provide a platform for interesting size‐ and shape‐selective catalytic applications.
Improved procedural workflow for catheter ablation of paroxysmal AF with high‐density mapping system and advanced technology: Rationale and study design of a multicenter international study
Authors: Solimene Francesco , Stabile Giuseppe , Ramos Pablo , Segreti Luca , Cauti Filippo Maria , De Sanctis Valerio , Maggio Ruggero , Ramos‐Maqueda Javier , Mont Lluis , Schillaci Vincenzo , Malacrida Maurizio , Garcia‐Bolao Ignacio
Published: April 2022

Background

The antral region of pulmonary veins (PV)s seems to play a key role in a strategy aimed at preventing atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence. Particularly, low‐voltage activity in tissue such as the PV antra and residual potential within the antral scar likely represent vulnerabilities in antral lesion sets, and ablation of these targets seems to improve freedom from AF. The aim of this study is to validate a structured application of an approach that includes the complete abolition of any antral potential achieving electrical quiescence in antral regions.

Methods

The improveD procEdural workfLow for cathETEr ablation of paroxysmal AF with high density mapping system and advanced technology (DELETE AF) study is a prospective, single‐arm, international post‐market cohort study designed to demonstrate a low rate of clinical atrial arrhythmias recurrence with an improved procedural workflow for catheter ablation of paroxysmal AF, using the most advanced point‐by‐point RF ablation technology in a multicenter setting. About 300 consecutive patients with standard indications for AF ablation will be enrolled in this study. Post‐ablation, all patients will be monitored with ambulatory event monitoring, starting within 30 days post‐ablation to proactively detect and manage any recurrences within the 90‐day blanking period, as well as Holter monitoring at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months post‐ablation. Healthcare resource utilization, clinical data, complications, patients' medical complaints related to the ablation procedure and patient's reported outcome measures will be prospectively traced and evaluated.

Discussion

The DELETE AF trial will provide additional knowledge on long‐term outcome following a structured ablation workflow, with high density mapping, advanced algorithms and local impedance technology, in an international multicentric fashion. DELETE AF is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05005143).
Recent Advances in the Applications of Carbon Nanostructures on Optical Sensing of Emerging Aquatic Pollutants
Authors: Gupta Arushi , Kumari Anu , Kaushal Neha , Saifi Anas , Mohanta Girish , Sachdev Abhay , Kumar Kamlesh , Deep Akash , Saha Avishek
Published: April 2022

In recent years, optical sensing based on nanomaterials has emerged as a prospective strategy for monitoring environmental pollution in water. In this context, carbon nanostructures have received increasing attention due to their unique optoelectronic and physiochemical properties. To this end, nanocarbon such as carbon nanotubes, graphene, and carbon dots have been used to develop proof‐of‐concept opto‐chemical sensors for emerging aquatic contaminants, including pesticides, bacterial pathogens, and pharmaceuticals residues. These optical sensors have attracted significant research interest in nanotechnology, material science, and the detection of aquatic pollutants. However, the practical application for detecting contaminants is still limited because of cost‐effectiveness, sensitivities, and selectivity toward the diverse pollutants. This review examines the current trends and challenges in designing and applying carbon nanostructure‐based optical sensors for detecting aquatic contaminants. Finally, a critical perspective on the field and future research directions is provided.
Yb3+‐Doped Phenylethylammonium Lead Bromide 2D Layered Hybrid Perovskite for Near‐Infrared Emission
Authors: Mondal Barnali , Poovathan Athunya , Sheikh Tariq , Nag Angshuman
Published: April 2022

Two‐dimensional (2D) layered hybrid perovskites like phenylethylammonium lead bromide [(PEA)2PbBr4] show interesting optoelectronic properties and improved moisture stability owing to the repeating quantum‐well structure and hydrophobic organic cations, respectively. Doping metal ions in such perovskites leads to exciton‐dopant interactions, imparting new optical properties. Here we report synthesis and optical properties of Yb3+‐doped (PEA)2PbBr4. Crystals show plate‐like morphology with lateral size of few micrometers. Also, ∼3.5 nm thin nanoplatelets are obtained after sonicating the samples. The host absorbs light via excitonic (and band‐band) transition at 407 nm. A part of the generated excitons recombines by emitting light at 414 nm along with host‐related non‐radiative recombination. Another significant part of the excitons recombines by non‐radiatively transferring the energy to the f‐electrons of Yb3+ dopant ions. The Yb3+ ions then de‐excite via f‐f (2F5/2→2F7/2) transition emitting near‐infrared (NIR) radiation with a peak at 997 nm. Such NIR‐emitting semiconductors with improved performances are desired for NIR light‐emitting diode applications.
Chasing Self‐Assembly of Thioether‐Substituted Flavylium Salts in Solution and Bulk State
Authors: Knöller Julius A. , Forschner Robert , Frey Wolfgang , Lang Johannes , Baro Angelika , Zens Anna , Molard Yann , Giesselmann Frank , Claasen Birgit , Laschat Sabine
Published: April 2022

Two series of flavylium triflates carrying alkoxy side chains in the A‐ring (benzo unit of chromylium salt) and thioethers in the B ring (phenyl unit) (On‐Fla‐Sm) as well as thioethers at both A and B ring (Sn‐Fla‐Sm) were synthesized in order to understand the effect of thioether functionalization on their self‐assembly and electronic properties. Concentration‐dependent and diffusion ordered (DOSY) NMR experiments of O1‐iV‐Fla‐S3 indicate the formation of columnar H‐aggregates in solution with antiparallel intracolumnar stacking of the AC unit (chromylium) of the flavylium triflate, in agreement with the solid state structure of O1‐V‐Fla‐S1. Thioether substitution on the B ring changes the linear optical properties in solution, whereas it has no effect on the A ring. According to differential scanning calorimetry, polarizing optical microscopy and X‐ray diffraction bulk self‐assembly of these ionic liquid crystals (ILCs) depends on the total number of side chains, yielding SmA and LamCol phases for ILCs with 2–3 chains and Colro, Colh phases for ILCs with 3–6 chains. Thus, we demonstrated that thioethers are a useful design tool for ILCs with tailored properties.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Metal‐Free C−H Functionalization: Access to New Bioactive Tetrahydroisoquinoline‐Butenolide Hybrids via Domino Amine Oxidation/Vinylogous Mannich Reaction**
Authors: Kersting Lena , Kuhn Leah , Anokhin Maksim , Schuster Florian , Häberli Cécile , Sambyal Shainy , Kumar Halmuthur M. Sampath , Keiser Jennifer , Alabugin Igor , Tsogoeva Svetlana B.
Published: April 2022

An efficient metal‐free visible‐light‐driven two‐step domino reaction towards new bioactive tetrahydroisoquinoline‐butenolide hybrid compounds was developed for the first time. The combination of fluorescein as photosensitizer and thiourea as an additive was found to be the most effective way to promote an aerobic amine oxidation/vinylogous Mannich domino reaction sequence with yields up to 97 % for a broad substrate scope. Both experimental and computational evidence supported the crucial role of singlet oxygen in the developed C−H functionalization reaction. Furthermore, the data suggest that thiourea is essential due to its ability to act as an electron‐transfer mediator and/or scavenger of reactive oxygen species. In addition, in vitro studies of tetrahydroisoquinoline‐butenolide hybrid compounds demonstrated their high antischistosomal and anti‐cancer activities.
Plaque removal by a novel prototype power toothbrush versus a manual toothbrush: A randomized, exploratory clinical study
Authors: Gomez‐Pereira Paola , Axe Alyson , Butler Andrew , Qaqish Jimmy , Goyal Chhaju R.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

This exploratory study investigated plaque removal with a prototype constant, low rotation speed Power Toothbrush (PTB) with two brushing actions: “Gumline” (head rotates in the horizontal axis) and “Interdental” (head rotates in the vertical axis). Gumline alone and “Combined” (Gumline + Interdental) modes were compared with a Reference PTB and a Reference Manual Toothbrush (MTB) after one brushing.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐nine participants were randomized to use each toothbrush once either in the sequence (A) Prototype PTB (in Gumline then Combined mode), (B) reference MTB, and (C) reference PTB or the sequence BAC. There was a minimum 3‐day washout between the use of each toothbrush. Plaque removal was measured using the Rustogi Modified Navy Dental Plaque Index (RMNPI) with change from baseline investigated using an analysis of covariance model. RMNPI scores were calculated on a “whole mouth” basis and along the gingival margin and at proximal sites only.

Results

For the primary efficacy variable, a significant difference was found in favor of the prototype PTB in gumline mode versus the reference MTB for whole mouth plaque score (difference: −0.06; standard error: 0.014; 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.09 to −0.04; p < .0001). Similar significant differences were found in gingival margin and proximal areas (p < .0001). The prototype PTB in gumline mode removed significantly less plaque than the prototype PTB in combined mode and the reference PTB (p < .0001; whole mouth/gingival/proximal areas). The prototype PTB in combined mode removed significantly more plaque than the reference MTB (p < .0001; whole mouth/gingival/proximal areas) and the reference PTB for whole mouth (p = .0214) and gingival margin areas (p = .0010). The reference PTB also removed significantly more plaque than the reference MTB (p < .0001; whole mouth/gingival/proximal areas). All brushes were generally well‐tolerated.

Conclusion

The prototype PTB design, providing two distinct cleaning modalities, can effectively remove plaque to a significantly higher degree than an MTB and a marketed PTB, depending on mode.
Growth, boll development, agronomic performance, and fiber quality of Gossypium barbadense L. in the southeastern U.S. Coastal Plain
Authors: Holladay Sarah K. , Bridges William , Jones Michael A. , Campbell B. Todd
Published: April 2022

Pima (Gossypium barbadense L.) cotton is currently grown commercially in the western United States and has exceptional fiber quality, which provides an economic value almost two times greater than Upland (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cotton. Due to limited experience with Pima production in the southeastern United States, our primary objective was to compare the growth, development, agronomic performance, and fiber quality of four Pima genotypes with a high‐yielding high fiber quality commercial Upland cultivar under irrigated and dryland conditions at different planting dates. Lint yields of all Pima genotypes were ∼50% less and had lower lint percentages (38.0–42.4%) than the Upland genotype (45.7%); however, the Pima genotypes had consistently lower micronaire values and increased fiber strength, length, and uniformity. Although irrigation did not significantly impact agronomic and fiber quality performance, plants grown under supplemental irrigation developed 10% more bolls throughout the season, mostly occurring on monopodial branches and at mainstem nodal positions above 15. Bolls on Pima genotypes were 13–34% smaller than the Upland genotype and developed at more distal and higher nodal positions in the plant canopy. The highest net returns were found in 2019 at the early planting date, displaying the importance of timely planting of Pima genotypes when grown in the southeastern United States. Results suggest that irrigation may not be required for Pima production in the southeast, early planting is preferred to obtain maximum yields, and increasing lint percent, boll number, or earliness through breeding may improve Pima yields in the southeastern United States.
Visible Light‐Driven Selective Reduction of CO2 by Acetylene‐Bridged Cobalt Porphyrin Conjugated Polymers
Authors: Yu Zhen , Xiao Yuting , Guo Shien , Min Feng , Sun Qing , Song Renjie , Li Jinheng
Published: April 2022

Photocatalytic conversion of CO2 into renewable fuels with high efficiency and selectivity is desirable for solar energy utilization, but remains a great challenge. Herein, cobalt(II)‐porphyrin functionalized conjugated polymers with acetylene bridging units, assembled through the Sonogashira cross coupling reaction, as heterogeneous catalysts for CO2 photoreduction were presented. Experimental investigations and density functional theory calculations demonstrated the crucial roles of Co centers in porphyrin units for CO2 activation and conversion, while excessive acetylene group prompted the competing hydrogen evolution reaction and reduced the selectivity. Thus, the CoPor‐DBBP afforded superior activity for the CO generation with a rate of 286.7 μmol g−1 h−1 and high selectivity of up to 90.4 %. This work presents a new insight for rationally designing of porphyrin‐based conjugated polymers as energetic photocatalyst in CO2 reduction.
Charge Modulation at Atomic‐Level through Substitutional Sulfur Doping into Atomically Thin Bi2WO6 toward Promoting Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Teh Yee Wen , Er Chen‐Chen , Kong Xin Ying , Ng Boon‐Junn , Yong Siek‐Ting , Chai Siang‐Piao
Published: April 2022

Photocatalytic reduction of CO2 has attracted enormous interest as a sustainable and renewable source of energy. In the past decade, numerous bulk‐type semiconductors have been developed, but the existing designs suffer many limitations, namely rapid recombination of charge carriers and weak light absorption ability. Herein, a bottom‐up approach was developed to design atomically thin sulfur‐doped Bi2WO6 perovskite nanosheets (S‐BWO) with improved reduction ability, extended visible light absorption, prolonged lifetime of charge carriers, enhanced adsorption of CO2, and reduced work function. Compared with pristine Bi2WO6 (P‐BWO), S‐BWO nanosheets exhibited a 3‐fold improvement in photocatalytic reduction of CO2 under simulated sunlight irradiation. Experimental studies and density functional theory calculations revealed the synergistic roles of atomically thin nanosheets and S atoms in promoting photocatalytic efficiency.
Continuous Room‐Temperature Hydrogen Release from Liquid Organic Carriers in a Photocatalytic Packed‐Bed Flow Reactor
Authors: Ibrahim Malek Y. S. , Bennett Jeffrey A. , Abolhasani Milad
Published: April 2022

Despite the potential of hydrogen (H2) storage in liquid organic carriers to achieve carbon neutrality, the energy required for H2 release and the cost of catalyst recycling have hindered its large‐scale adoption. In response, a photo flow reactor packed with rhodium (Rh)/titania (TiO2) photocatalyst was reported for the continuous and selective acceptorless dehydrogenation of 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroquinoline to H2 gas and quinoline under visible light irradiation at room temperature. The tradeoff between the reactor pressure drop and its photocatalytic surface area was resolved by selective in‐situ photodeposition of Rh in the photo flow reactor post‐packing on the outer surface of the TiO2 microparticles available to photon flux, thereby reducing the optimal Rh loading by 10 times compared to a batch reactor, while facilitating catalyst reuse and regeneration. An example of using quinoline as a hydrogen acceptor to lower the energy of the hydrogen production step was demonstrated via the water‐gas shift reaction.
Cytopathology of the distant metastasis of papillary carcinoma of thyroid
Authors: Shastri Malvika , Kundu Reetu , Rohilla Manish , Gupta Parikshaa , Gupta Nalini , Srinivasan Radhika , Saikia Uma Nahar , Dey Pranab
Published: April 2022

Aims

To describe the cytomorphological features at distant metastatic sites apart from lymph nodes in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC).

Materials and methods

A total of eight cytology cases from seven patients reported as metastatic papillary carcinoma of thyroid were reviewed including available clinical and radiological details. The details clinical and cytological features were studied.

Results

There were a total of five males and two female patients. Two of these patients presented with lung nodules, two patients had bony lesion and lesion in kidney respectively and one patient had both bony and soft tissue lesions. Pleural fluid and bronchoalveolar lavage were received from remaining two patients. Cytology smears revealed papillary clusters and sheets of tumor cells, having round to oval nuclei with pale powdery chromatin, inconspicuous nucleoli and scant to moderate amount of cytoplasm. Nuclear features such as longitudinal nuclear grooves, intranuclear cytoplasmic inclusions were seen in all but one case. Nuclear enlargement and overlapping were variably present.

Conclusions

The diagnosis of metastatic PTC at uncommon locations is difficult. Since many of these locations are amenable to fine needle aspiration or exfoliative cytology evaluation, clinical awareness, and identification of classic cytomorphologic features can offer quick and accurate diagnoses. In cases with occult or unknown PTC presenting with metastases, cytomorphology may help in the prompt suggestion of detecting primary tumor in the thyroid.
Photo‐ and Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction Based on Stable Lead‐Free Perovskite Cs2PdBr6
Authors: Wu Daofu , Wang Cheng , Huo Benjun , Hu Ke , Mao Xinchun , Geng Zhigang , Huang Qiang , Zhang Wenxia , Zeng Jie , Tang Xiaosheng
Published: April 2022

All‐inorganic lead‐free palladium (Pd) halogen perovskites with prominent optoelectronic properties provide admirable potential for selective photo‐ and electroreduction of CO2. But it remains unachieved for effectively converting the CO2 to CO with high selectivity on Pd‐based perovskites driven by solar light or electricity. Herein, high‐quality Cs2PdBr6 microcrystals and nanocrystals were synthesized through a facile antisolvent method. Among all the reported pure‐phase perovskites, the Cs2PdBr6 nanocrystals synthesized at 50 °C performed the highest effectiveness on CO2 to CO conversion generating 73.8 μmol g−1 of CO yield with 100% selectivity under visible light illumination (λ > 420 nm) for 3 h. Meanwhile, for the first time, we report a new application of lead‐free perovskites, in which they are applied to electrocatalysis of CO2 reduction reaction. Noticeably, they showed significant electrocatalytic activity (Faradaic yield: 78% for CO) and operation stability (10 h). And the surface reaction intermediates were dynamically monitored and precisely unraveled according to the in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectra investigation. In combination with the density functional theory calculation, the reaction mechanism and pathways were revealed. This work not only provides significant strategies to enhance the photocatalytic performance of perovskites, but also shows excellent potential for their application in electrocatalysis.
Unpacking notions of residents' responsibility in flood risk governance
Authors: Snel Karin A. W. , Hegger Dries L. T. , Mees Heleen L. P. , Craig Robin Kundis , Kammerbauer Mark , Doorn Neelke , Bergsma Emmy , Wamsler Christine
Published: April 2022

Environmental disasters, and especially floods, are among today's biggest sustainability challenges. The number and intensity of floods are increasing, challenging current governance approaches. Governments worldwide are looking to diversify their flood risk management and adaptation strategies, among others, by increasing resident involvement in flood risk governance. Such involvement of individuals shifts responsibilities from public to private actors. A clear understanding of the extent and implications of this shift is difficult to reach as theoretical perspectives on the concept of responsibility vary. Similarly, grounds for attributing responsibility for flood preparedness and response differ across countries. This lack of analytical and empirical clarity complicates academic and policy discourses on what it actually means to ‘be responsible’. The current article systematises these different approaches to responsibility in flood risk governance. To improve current knowledge on residents' responsibilities in flood risk governance, we present a conceptual framework that distinguishes among four theoretical notions of responsibility: legal responsibility, accountability, perceived responsibility, and moral responsibility. These notions are elucidated with the help of examples of flood risk governance practices in the United States, Germany and the Netherlands. We find that the four notions are closely intertwined. In addition, this article documents divergences between what individuals perceive as their own responsibility in flood risk management and the responsibilities that governments assume. We conclude with a discussion on the tensions between perceived responsibilities and the other three notions. Explicit, transparent and open discussion on these tensions is needed to allow attribution of responsibility in flood risk governance and to reconsider residents' roles in particular.
Emergent geographies of chronic air pollution governance in Southeast Asia: Transboundary publics in Singapore
Authors: Varkkey Helena
Published: April 2022

Haze is a product of in‐situ biomass fires that becomes mobile as it moves across state boundaries in Southeast Asia. The literature on the governance of transboundary air commons has largely been fixed at the national or supranational scalar of reference. Hence, successes and failures tend to be evaluated based on policy and diplomatic (non)progress. This paper contributes to recent literature that argues that haze should be treated as a challenge and opportunity for transboundary governance and not merely transnational governance. Transboundary governance does not restrict the study of cross‐border relations to national scales of analysis but encompasses resource connections that traverse borders at all scales of governance. This paper focuses on Singapore, a state where biomass fires do not occur but where the effects of haze are acutely felt. Among ASEAN member states, Singapore has been viewed as a particularly active player in region‐wide governance on haze. However, the role of non‐state environmental stewardship initiatives in pathfinding, nudging, and signalling state, corporate and regional actors towards emergent transboundary governance arrangements have been underplayed. By focusing on the efforts of the Singapore Institute of International Affairs (SIIA), Singapore Environment Council (SEC), and People's Movement to Stop Haze (PM Haze), this paper explores how transboundary publics can fill policy gaps in transnational haze governance regimes. As a highly depoliticised city‐state, Singapore's experience serves as a microcosm for ways forward within the broader ASEAN geopolitical culture favouring depoliticised ‘engaged non‐indifference’.
Absorption Analysis of Photosystem I in Different Plants for Biohybrid Solar Cell Applications
Authors: Amjadian Saeid , Esmaeilzadeh Mahdi , Ajeian Rasul , Riazi Gholamhossein , Ramakrishna Seeram
Published: April 2022

Biohybrid solar cells, which are inspired by photosynthesis process in plants, are new low‐cost and environmentally friendly solar cells. In this kind of solar cells, photosystem I (PSI), which is the main part of photosynthesis process, is used as light absorber layer. Herein, PSI is extracted from some easily accessible plants, including spinach, Tung‐Oh, chye sim, local endive, beet greens, leek, Swiss chard, and romaine lettuce, and their light absorbance properties are studied. It is shown that the optical bandgap of PSI extracted from all of these plants is about 1.8 eV which indicates the potential of these plants for use in biohybrid solar cells. It is shown that, due to the higher light absorbance, spinach is the best plant for this kind of solar cells. Also, the effect of temperature on light absorbance of PSI extracted from spinach is investigated and shows that the light absorbance of PSI considerably decreases at high‐temperature values. Furthermore, alkaline and acidic environments on PSI light absorbance are studied and shows that the alkaline pH stress has no destructive effect on light absorbance, while the acidic pH stress causes a considerable decrease in light absorbance which is important in biohybrid solar cell fabrication.
Perylenediimide/Graphite Foil‐Based Electrode Materials with Outstanding Cycling Stability for Symmetric Supercapacitor Device Architectures
Authors: Biradar Madan R. , Kale Amol M. , Kim Byung Chul , Bhosale Sidhanath V. , Bhosale Sheshanath V.
Published: April 2022

Herein, pyridine functionalized naphthalenediimide (NDI‐Py) and perylenediimide (PDI‐Py) derivatives are synthesized and characterized using modern techniques. NDI‐Py and PDI‐Py in combination with graphite foil (GF) are employed as electrode materials for supercapacitor (SC) applications. Under the three‐electrode system, the electrode materials based on NDI‐Py/GF and PDI‐Py/GF composite electrode exhibit specific capacitance (C
sp) of about 118 and 179 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1 from cyclic voltammetry (CV) and 132 and 197 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 from galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) curves. The electrochemical performance behaviors of these electrodes are mainly contributed by surface reactions along with the Faradaic redox reactions such as pseudocapacitance. The corresponding two‐electrode symmetric SC device based on PDI‐Py/GF//PDI‐Py/GF exhibits a high energy density of 46 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 3060 W kg−1 at 1 A g−1 current density, which is further retained at 13 Wh kg−1 and 15 300 W kg−1 energy and power density, respectively, at 5 A g−1 current density. Moreover, the symmetrical SC device based on PDI‐Py/GF//PDI‐Py/GF shows outstanding cyclic stability for 10 000 charge–discharge cycles while maintaining 95% of the original capacitance.
Study on distortion energy and stability of gob floor based on stress deviator field
Authors: Shan Renliang , Li Zhaolong , Wang Chunhe , Meng Chi , Wei Yonghui , Li Yongzhen , Tong Xiao , Liu Dong
Published: April 2022

To analyze the plastic failure process and mechanism of gob floor in the process of close‐distance coal seams mining, a simplified mechanical model of the lateral abutment pressure of the gob was proposed to derive the stress of surrounding rock. The distribution characteristics of gob floor stress deviator were obtained, and the effect of geological parameters (coal depth H and horizontal lateral pressure coefficient λ) were studied. By combining Mohr–Coulomb theory, the influence of surrounding rock cohesion c, internal friction angle φ, different coal seam depths H and different horizontal lateral pressure coefficients λ on the distribution of plastic zone of gob floor was obtained. The results showed that the distribution of the plastic zone under different geological factors is roughly the same as that of the stress deviator. This also proves that the excavation of the rock layer causes the redistribution of stress, which leads to the plastic failure of the surrounding rock. To verify the rationality of the proposed model, industrial experiments and simulation experiments were carried out. The results of on‐site investigation showed that the stability and integrity of surrounding rock in the concentration area of stress deviator is far less than that in the low concentration area. In addition, the acoustic wave test and the displacement field monitoring result of surrounding rock in the simulation experiments of a similar model are basically consistent with the distribution of the stress deviator field. These results agree well with the distribution of stress deviator obtained by theoretical calculation.
Stimuli‐responsive crosslinked nanomedicine for cancer treatment
Authors: Xue Xiangdong , Qu Haijing , Li Yuanpei
Published: April 2022

Nanomedicines are attractive paradigms to deliver drugs, contrast agents, immunomodulators, and gene editors for cancer therapy and diagnosis. However, the currently developed nanomedicine suffers from poor serum stability, premature drug release, and lack of responsiveness. Crosslinking strategy can be utilized to overcome these shortcomings by employing stimuli‐responsive chemical bonds to tightly hold the nanostructure and releasing the payloads spatiotemporally in a highly controlled manner. In this Review, we summarize the recently ingenious design of the stimuli‐responsive crosslinked nanomedicines (SCN) in the field of cancer treatment and their advances in circumventing the drawbacks of the conventional drug delivery system. We classify the SCNs into three categories based on the crosslinking strategies, including built‐in, on‐surface, and inter‐particle crosslinking nanomedicines. Thanks to the stimuli‐responsive crosslinkages, SCNs are capable of keeping robust stability during systemic circulation. They also respond to the particular tumoral conditions to experience a series of dynamic changes, such as the changes in size, surface charge, targeting moieties, integrity, and imaging signals. These characteristics allow them to efficiently overcome different biological barriers and substantially improve the drug delivery efficiency, tumor‐targeting ability, and imaging sensitivities. With the examples discussed, we envision that our perspectives can inspire more attempts to engineer intelligent nanomedicine to achieve effective cancer therapy and diagnosis.
Cell‐cultivated food production and processing: A review
Authors: Barzee Tyler J. , El Mashad Hamed M. , Cao Lin , Chio Allan , Pan Zhongli , Zhang Ruihong
Published: April 2022

Cells cultivated in bioreactors offer many possibilities for the production of novel and nutritious food products. Scientific and technological advances in cellular agriculture and processing technologies have allowed for the development of new techniques to utilize in vitro animal cells, plant cells, and microorganisms to mimic the organoleptic and nutritional properties of traditional foods as well as to potentially develop entirely new product classes. This review compiles and discusses the state‐of‐the‐art cellular production and processing systems including 3D printing of customizable cell‐cultivated food products. In addition to the technological state‐of‐the art, this article reviews the nutritional characteristics of cell‐cultivated foods, introduces examples of new food products, and compiles economic characteristics and environmental impacts of each production system as assessed through technoeconomic analyses and lifecycle assessments. The factors influencing consumer acceptance of cell‐cultivated foods are articulated and the potential implications of these new technologies on traditional agricultural industries and food chains are discussed. Lastly, future research and development trajectories are introduced with suggestions for continued development.
Perturbing electron carriers of green algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii for efficient physiological and metabolic regulation
Authors: Zhou Dongqing , Luo Yeling , Zhang Yingqiu , Zhao Chenni , Wu Hui , Fan Jianhua
Published: April 2022

Microalgae are widely used in the field of food bioengineering. There are relatively few studies on the synthesis of intracellular electron carriers in microalgae and their related metabolic effects. In this study, overexpression of Geranyl diphosphate: 4‐hydroxybenzoate geranyltransferase (lepgt), and the addition of 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (4‐HB) as quinone ring precursor were adopted to regulate intracellular plastoquinone (PQ) and ubiquinone (UQ) levels in model algae Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Small changes in PQ and UQ contents could regulate cell growth and metabolism. The expression of lepgt in C. reinhardtii significantly reduced the intracellular contents of PQ and UQ by 49.14% and 98.30%, respectively. The expression of lepgt observably reduced the photosystem activity and respiration rate and increased the contents of neutral lipid and starch by 63.68% and 19.42%, respectively. Exogenous low concentration of 4‐HB (1 mM) can effectively improve the contents of intracellular electron carriers, promote respiration, slightly reduce photosystem efficiency, and increase the maximum specific growth rate by 16.93%. It decreased the protein and oil contents by 15.48% and 15.10%, as well as changed the composition of long‐chain fatty acids. This paper provided a novel strategy for developing microalgal cell factories for future food production by perturbation on electron carriers of green algae.
Prenatal substance use policies and newborn health
Authors: Meinhofer Angélica , Witman Allison , Maclean Johanna Catherine , Bao Yuhua
Published: April 2022

We study the effect of punitive and priority treatment policies relating to illicit substance use during pregnancy on the rate of neonatal drug withdrawal syndrome, low birth weight, low gestational age, and prenatal care use. Punitive policies criminalize prenatal substance use, or define prenatal substance exposure as child maltreatment in child welfare statutes or as grounds for termination of parental rights. Priority treatment policies are supportive and grant pregnant women priority access to substance use disorder treatment programs. Our empirical strategy relies on administrative data from 2008 to 2018 and a difference‐in‐differences framework that exploits the staggered implementation of these policies. We find that neonatal drug withdrawal syndrome increases by 10%–18% following the implementation of a punitive policy. This growth is accompanied by modest reductions in prenatal care, which may reflect deterrence from healthcare utilization. In contrast, priority treatment policies are associated with small reductions in low gestational age (2%) and low birth weight (2%), along with increases in prenatal care use. Taken together, our findings suggest that punitive approaches may be associated with unintended adverse pregnancy outcomes, and that supportive approaches may be more effective for improving perinatal health.
The “m6A writer” METTL3 and the “m6A reader” IGF2BP2 regulate cutaneous T‐cell lymphomas progression via CDKN2A
Authors: Wang Xinchen , Hu Maogui , Yu Lu , Wang Xiaoyan , Jiang Xinlu , Zhang Guihong , Ding Kaiyang
Published: April 2022

It has been established that Cutaneous T‐Cell lymphomas (CTCL) are caused by the monoclonal proliferation of T lymphocytes in the skin. This heterogeneous group of diseases represents a significant source of distress to patients since the diagnosis and treatment are often challenging. As one of the most abundant internal modifications in mRNA in higher eukaryotes, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is widely recognized to affect the development and progression of cancers. However, knowledge on the involvement of m6A in CTCL is still limited. In this work, we revealed the role of METTL3‐mediated m6A modification in CTCL progression. ELISA, western blot, and qRT‐PCR assays demonstrated that METTL3 was significantly downregulated in CTCL cells both in vivo and in vitro. CCK‐8, EdU, flow cytometry, and transwell assays showed that the decline in METTL3 levels was responsible for CTCL cell proliferation and migration. Furthermore, using small interfering RNAs against METTL3 and the RIP assay, we showed that CDKN2A was a key regulator during this process in vitro and in vivo, and insufficient methylation modification blocked the interaction between CDKN2A and m6A reader IGF2BP2, resulting in mRNA degradation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to depict the role of m6A in CTCL development and provide potential bio‐targets for therapy.
A PETAR method for risk assessment of human health and environment on the regional scale
Authors: Guo Kai , Liu Yang , Lan Zeying , Qin Liangjun , Lin Tong , Gan Qiao , Jin Bingbing , Chen Min
Published: April 2022

Risk assessments are necessary to effectively reveal the state of the degradation of living environments on a regional scale. However, risk assessments are often limited by time, cost, and technology, which make conducting effective evaluations difficult. Thus, in this study, the procedure for ecological tiered assessment of risk (PETAR) method was used to analyze the human health and environmental risks in Daye, China. This method first used the United States Environmental Protection Agency's risk assessment approach to qualitatively determine the risk sources, pressures, receptors, and effect endpoints and constructed a conceptual model of threats to the human living environment. Each risk-prone subregion was then evaluated using the fuzzy logic method. Next, a quantitative assessment was conducted for the subregions with the most serious environmental degradation. Finally, quantitative analyses were performed to verify the original hypotheses. The results showed that the high-risk areas were distributed in the industrial regions of Daye, wherein mining and processing clusters and mining settlements are widespread and confirmed the locations of the particular subregions with the most serious human health and environmental risks. This study also validated the practicality of the PETAR method for human health risk assessments in mining areas with large-scale, multifactor, and multihazard paths. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:239–253. © 2022 SETAC
Diagnosis value of miR‐181, miR‐652, and CA72‐4 for gastric cancer
Authors: Tian Wenyan , Pang Xueqin , Luan Fujuan
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To find a useful disease marker for early diagnosis of gastric cancer, we tried to explore the expression of serum miR‐181, miR‐652, and carbohydrate antigen 72‐4 (CA72‐4).

Patients and Methods

According to clinical pathologic stages, 112 patients with gastric cancer were divided into early gastric cancer group (n = 60) and advanced gastric cancer group (n = 52), stage I‐II (n = 65), and stage III‐IV (n = 47). Another 50 cases of gastric benign lesions and 40 healthy controls were also selected. Real‐time quantitative PCR together with chemiluminescence were applied to detect expression levels. ROC curve was applied to judge their diagnostic efficiency. Pearson's correlation analysis was put into use to investigate the relevance of three indicators.

Results

Compared with benign lesions group and control group, significantly higher expression levels were found in patients of gastric cancer (all p < 0.001). Similarly, compared with early gastric cancer group, significantly higher expression levels were found in advanced gastric cancer group (all p < 0.001). The same result was also found in stage III‐IV (all p < 0.001). The best cutoff values were 0.93, 2.38, and 16.94 U/ml, respectively. The area under the curve (0.917, 95%CI: 0.856–0.975) of the three combined diagnosis of early gastric cancer was the largest, and its sensitivity and specificity were 92.5% and 86.8%. And miR‐181 and miR‐652 were positively correlated with CA72‐4 (r = 0.772, p < 0.001, r = 0.853, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Serum miR‐181, miR‐652, and CA72‐4 are closely linked to the occurrence and development of gastric cancer. Combination of three indicators has diagnostic value for early gastric cancer.
hsa_circ_0000285 facilitates thyroid cancer progression by regulating miR‐127‐5p/CDH2
Authors: Zhang Bowei , Li Qiaoling , Song Zhe , Ren Li , Gu Yi , Feng Chao , Wang Jinju , Liu Tong
Published: April 2022

Thyroid cancer (THCA) is a leading endocrine cancer and becomes the fifth most commonly diagnosed malignancy in females. It is confirmed that circular RNAs (circRNAs) perform regulatory potencies in the pathological progress of THCA. Our purpose was to certify the trait of hsa_circ_0000285 (circ_0000285) and investigate its modulatory mechanism in THCA progression. We identified the expression profile of hsa_circ_0000285 in THCA by conducting qRT‐PCR assay. Therewith, the potential of hsa_circ_0000285 in THCA development was determined with a set of functional experiments, including CCK‐8, wound healing assay, Western blot, and xenograft model. The molecular mechanism underlying hsa_circ_0000285 was investigated with bioinformatic analysis, RIP and dual‐luciferase reporter experiments. As opposed to normal samples and cells, hsa_circ_0000285 level was overtly increased in THCA specimens and cells. The downregulation of hsa_circ_0000285 weakened the proliferative and migratory capacity of THCA cells and promoted cell apoptosis. In addition, hsa_circ_0000285 silence suppressed the tumor growth of xenograft model mice in vivo. Notably, we demonstrated that hsa_circ_0000285 might target miR‐127‐5p/CDH2 axis in THCA. Afterward, our findings manifested that miR‐127‐5p attenuation blocked the function of hsa_circ_0000285 depletion in THCA cells. In the final step, CDH2 was proven to mediate the repressive potency of miR‐127‐5p in the malignant behaviors of THCA. Mechanistically, hsa_circ_0000285 induced the development of THCA via functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) of miR‐127‐5p to enhance CDH2 expression, which provided a new perspective for THCA therapy.
Mechanism of action, resistance, synergism, and clinical implications of azithromycin
Authors: Heidary Mohsen , Ebrahimi Samangani Ahmad , Kargari Abolfazl , Kiani Nejad Aliakbar , Yashmi Ilya , Motahar Moloudsadat , Taki Elahe , Khoshnood Saeed
Published: April 2022

Background

Azithromycin (AZM), sold under the name Zithromax, is classified as a macrolide. It has many benefits due to its immunomodulatory, anti‐inflammatory, and antibacterial effects. This review aims to study different clinical and biochemisterial aspects and properties of this drug which has a priority based on literature published worldwide.

Methods

Several databases including Web of Science, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus were searched to obtain the relevant studies.

Results

AZM mechanism of action including the inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis, inhibition of proinflammatory cytokine production, inhibition of neutrophil infestation, and macrophage polarization alteration, gives it the ability to act against a wide range of microorganisms. Resistant organisms are spreading and being developed because of the irrational use of the drug in the case of dose and duration. AZM shows synergistic effects with other drugs against a variety of organisms. This macrolide is considered a valuable antimicrobial agent because of its use as a treatment for a vast range of diseases such as asthma, bronchiolitis, COPD, cystic fibrosis, enteric infections, STIs, and periodontal infections.

Conclusions

Our study shows an increasing global prevalence of AZM resistance. Thus, synergistic combinations are recommended to treat different pathogens. Moreover, continuous monitoring of AZM resistance by registry centers and the development of more rapid diagnostic assays are urgently needed.
Machine learning with a snapshot of data: Spiking neural network ‘predicts’ reinforcement histories of pigeons' choice behavior
Authors: Plessas Anna , Espinosa‐Ramos Josafath I. , Parry Dave , Cowie Sarah , Landon Jason
Published: April 2022

An accumulated body of choice research has demonstrated that choice behavior can be understood within the context of its history of reinforcement by measuring response patterns. Traditionally, work on predicting choice behaviors has been based on the relationship between the history of reinforcement—the reinforcer arrangement used in training conditions—and choice behavior. We suggest an alternative method that treats the reinforcement history as unknown and focuses only on operant choices to accurately predict (more precisely, retrodict) reinforcement histories. We trained machine learning models known as artificial spiking neural networks (SNNs) on previously published pigeon datasets to detect patterns in choices with specific reinforcement histories—seven arranged concurrent variable‐interval schedules in effect for nine reinforcers. Notably, SNN extracted information from a small ‘window’ of observational data to predict reinforcer arrangements. The models' generalization ability was then tested with new choices of the same pigeons to predict the type of schedule used in training. We examined whether the amount of the data provided affected the prediction accuracy and our results demonstrated that choices made by the pigeons immediately after the delivery of reinforcers provided sufficient information for the model to determine the reinforcement history. These results support the idea that SNNs can process small sets of behavioral data for pattern detection, when the reinforcement history is unknown. This novel approach can influence our decisions to determine appropriate interventions; it can be a valuable addition to our toolbox, for both therapy design and research.
Association of periodontitis, missing teeth, and oral hygiene behaviors with the incidence of hypertension in middle‐aged and older adults in Korea: A 10‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Hwang Su‐Yeon , Oh Hannah , Rhee Moo‐Yong , Kang Sangwook , Kim Hae‐Young
Published: April 2022

Background

The relationship between periodontitis and hypertension remains controversial. This study aimed to investigate the association of periodontitis, missing teeth, and oral hygiene behaviors with the incidence of hypertension.

Methods

A total of 104,349 participants were selected from the National Health Insurance System‐Health Screening (NHIS‐HEALS) cohort. Incident hypertension and periodontitis were diagnosed based on the patients’ clinical records and health examinations. A multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed after adjusting for socioeconomic factors, coexisting disease, and health behaviors.

Results

The mean age of the participants was 51.1 years (range, 40–79 years) at baseline, and 55.1% were men. A total of 52,855 incident hypertension cases were identified during the median follow‐up period of 9.6 years. Among the participants, periodontitis (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.02; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.00–1.04), number of missing teeth (for ≥15 group, HR: 1.40; 95% CI: 1.29–1.52), dental scaling (HR: 0.93; 95% CI: 0.91–0.95), and toothbrushing frequency (for ≥3 group, HR: 0.85; 95% CI: 0.83–0.88) were significantly associated with incident hypertension after full adjustments for covariates. While periodontitis was significantly associated with incident hypertension (HR: 1.04; 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) in the middle‐aged group (40–64 years), the effect was insignificant in the older group (≥65 years).

Conclusions

Oral inflammation could contribute to the incidence of hypertension; thus, efforts to reduce oral inflammation should be encouraged. Future intervention studies are warranted to determine whether oral health care could be beneficial in the management of hypertension.