bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Dynamic Kinetic Asymmetric Hydrosilylation to Access Silicon‐Stereogenic Center
Authors: Zeng Yan , Fang Xiao‐Jun , Tang Ren‐He , Xie Jing‐Yu , Zhang Feng‐Jiao , Xu Zheng , Nie Yi‐Xue , Xu Li‐Wen
Published: November 2022

Strategies on the construction of enantiomerically pure silicon‐stereogenic silanes generally relies on desymmetrization of prochiral and symmetric substrates. However, dynamic kinetic asymmetric transformations of organosilicon compounds have remained underdeveloped and unforeseen owing to a lack of an effective method for deracemization of the static silicon stereocenters. Here we report the first Rh‐catalyzed dynamic kinetic asymmetric intramolecular hydrosilylation (DyKAH) with “silicon‐centered” racemic hydrosilanes that enables the facile preparation of silicon‐stereogenic benzosiloles in good yields and excellent enantioselectivities. The special rhodium catalyst controlled by non‐diastereopure‐type mixed phosphine‐phosphoramidite ligand with axial chirality and multiple stereocenters can induce enantioselectivity efficiently in this novel DyKAH reaction. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that the amide moiety in chiral ligand plays important role in facilitating the SN2 substitution of chloride ion to realize the chiral inversion of silicon center.
Towards multifunctional landscapes coupling low carbon feed and bioenergy production with restorative agriculture: Economic deployment potential of grass‐based biorefineries
Authors: Yilmaz Balaman Sebnem , Berndes Göran , Cederberg Christel , Rosenqvist Håkan
Published: November 2022

Grass‐based biomass from grasslands can be used as feedstock in green biorefineries (GBs) that produce a range of biobased products. In addition, adjustments made as part of crop rotation to increase areas under temporary grasslands can yield benefits such as carbon sequestration, increased soil productivity, reduced eutrophication and reduced need for pesticides. In this paper, a flexible modeling framework is developed to analyze the deployment options for GBs that use grass–clover to produce protein feed and feedstock for bioenergy. The focus is placed on optimal deployment, considering system configuration and operation, as well as land use changes designed to increase grass–clover cultivation on cropland. A case study involving 17 counties in Sweden showed that the deployment of GB systems could support biomethane and protein feed production corresponding to 5–60 and 13–154%, respectively, of biomethane and soybean feed imports to Sweden in 2020. © 2022 The Authors. Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biorefining published by Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
An assessment of the reliability of 52 enhanced preliminary embryofetal development studies to detect developmental toxicity
Authors: Barrow Paul
Published: November 2022

Background

Preliminary embryofetal development (pEFD) data from two species are currently recommended before inclusion of women of child‐bearing potential (WOCBP) in clinical trials in Europe or Japan, but not before trials in the United States. The ICH S5(R3) guideline advises an “enhanced” study design for this purpose.

Methods

The reliability of pEFD studies was assessed by comparing the outcome of 52 enhanced pEFD studies (25 rat, 23 rabbit, and 4 mouse) with the results of the definitive nonclinical EFD assessment.

Results

Four pEFD studies revealed severe developmental hazard without the need for a main EFD study. Only one pEFD study failed to detect drug‐related teratogenicity or pregnancy failure subsequently detected in the main study. There were, however, some false positive and some equivocal pEFD study results. Of the 48 pEFD studies for which a main EFD study was performed, 16 (33%) failed to accurately predict (within two‐fold) the no adverse effect level (NOAEL) for developmental toxicity subsequently defined in the main EFD study. Skeletal examination of fetuses in the pEFD study was necessary was to detect drug‐induced malformations. One quarter (23%) of EFD investigations revealed malformations and/or pregnancy failure at one dose level or more.

Conclusions

pEFD studies are effective for the detection of serious or irreversible effects on embryofetal development, provided that full fetal examinations are completed. They are not, however, sufficiently powered to reliably define the NOAEL for developmental toxicity. The regulatory impact of pEFD studies remains obscure since maximum pregnancy prevention precautions are required in clinical trials in all regions until the results of the main EFD studies are available.
The Double Legacy of Bernalism in Science Diplomacy
Authors: Ienna Gerardo
Published: November 2022

Recent debates in the history of science aimed at reconstructing the history of scientific diplomacy have privileged the analysis of forms of diplomacy coming from above. Instead, the objective of this paper is to raise awareness of these debates by looking at attempts at scientific diplomacy from below. Such a shift in perspective might allow us to observe the impact of marginalized social agents on the construction of international diplomatic choices. This article particularly focuses attention on how the legacy of Bernalism has fostered the emergence of two different types of science diplomacy. On the one hand, Bernalism has influenced the goals of organizations such as UNESCO and the World Peace Council, which are forms of science diplomacy I would term from above. On the other hand, Bernalism has also been at the origin of radical scientific movements that I propose to interpret as forms of scientific diplomacy from below. These have, in fact, played a cardinal role not only in raising public awareness of the social and political roles of science, but also in the more direct participation of scientists in defining the political objectives of their research activity. From this point of view, I analyze how an association like the World Federation of Scientific Workers proposed (at least in the beginning) greater democratic participation than the top‐down structures of other forms of scientific internationalism.
Evaluating the behavior and principle of deep eutectic solvent on ephedrine‐type alkaloid extraction from Ephedrae Herba
Authors: Liu Yongjing , Zhang Suxia , Lou Li , Yan Tang , Xu Wei
Published: November 2022

In this study, deep eutectic solvent (DES), as a new green solvent, was used to extract bioactive alkaloids from Ephedrae Herba using supersonic extraction. In a variety of tested hydrophilic and hydrophobic DESs, DES composed of choline chloride and xylitol was proved to be the most efficient solvent. Factors affecting extraction efficiency, including the mole ratio of hydrogen bond acceptor/hydrogen bond donor, water contention, and solid/liquid ratio, were optimized individually. Under optimal conditions, the yield of ephedrine (EP) and pseudoephedrine obtained using this new method was 14.24 and 4.32 mg/g, respectively, which was higher than that using the traditional solvent (acidified water and methanol). Furthermore, the extraction mechanism of DES and EP was investigated using molecular dynamics simulation study. Structural properties such as radial distribution functions and average number of hydrogen bonds were then computed. The results showed that hydrogen bonds and van der Waals forces are important driving forces of extraction; in addition, the hydrogen bonds between the Cl atom of choline chloride and N atom of EP played a dominant part in the extraction process. Based on the extraction principle, the extraction method using choline chloride as extraction solvent was also discussed.
How Bases Catalyze Diels‐Alder Reactions
Authors: Yu Song , Tiekink Eveline H. , Vermeeren Pascal , Bickelhaupt F. Matthias , Hamlin Trevor A.
Published: November 2022

We have quantum chemically studied the base‐catalyzed Diels‐Alder (DA) reaction between 3‐hydroxy‐2‐pyrone and N‐methylmaleimide using dispersion‐corrected density functional theory. The uncatalyzed reaction is slow and is preceded by the extrusion of CO2 via a retro‐DA reaction. Base catalysis, for example, by triethylamine, lowers the reaction barrier up to 10 kcal mol−1, causing the reaction to proceed smoothly at low temperature, which quenches the expulsion of CO2, yielding efficient access to polyoxygenated natural compounds. Our activation strain analyses reveal that the base accelerates the DA reaction via two distinct electronic mechanisms: i) by the HOMO‐raising effect, which enhances the normal electron demand orbital interaction; and ii) by donating charge into 3‐hydroxy‐2‐pyrone which accumulates in its reactive region and promotes strongly stabilizing secondary electrostatic interactions with N‐methylmaleimide.
Comparative Screening of DalPhos/Ni Catalysts in C‐N Cross‐couplings of (Hetero)aryl Chlorides Enables Development of Aminopyrazole Cross‐couplings with Amine Base
Authors: Martinek Nicole , Morrison Kathleen M. , Field Justin M. , Fisher Samuel A. , Stradiotto Mark
Published: November 2022

A systematic competitive evaluation of the DalPhos ligand family in nickel‐catalyzed N‐arylation chemistry is reported, involving primary (linear and branched) and secondary alkylamines, as well as a primary five‐membered heteroarylamine (aminopyrazole), in combination with a diverse set of test electrophiles and bases (NaOtBu, K2CO3, DBU/NaTFA). In addition to providing optimal ligand/catalyst identification, and bringing to light methodology limitations (e. g., unwanted C−O cross‐coupling with NaOtBu), our survey enabled the development of the first efficient catalyst system for heteroatom‐dense C−N cross‐coupling of aminopyrazoles and related nucleophiles with (hetero)aryl chlorides by use of an amine ‘dual‐base’ system.
Edge‐Decorated Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons by an Oxidative Coupling Approach
Authors: Gilmartin Philip , Vu Cassandra , Rotella Madeline , Kaur Jasjit , Kozlowski Marisa
Published: November 2022

Oxidative phenol coupling reduces reliance on halo/metalated substrates used in conventional redox neutral couplings. A new strategy for constructing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that incorporates oxidative phenol coupling is outlined in a three‐stage approach: oxidative fragment coupling, linking of the two resultant units, and oxidative cyclization. The protocol allows rapid assembly of both planar and helical systems with a high degree of edge functionalization. The incorporation of 12 alkoxy groups on systems with 12 rings gave rise to lower optical gaps compared to systems with a lesser degree of edge functionalization.
Numerical Investigation of the Heating Process of the Walls in Steam Sterilizers
Authors: Pletzer Simon , Miranda Marco , Lucchesi Marzia , Magno Marino , Hochenauer Christoph
Published: November 2022

The basic principle of steam sterilization is based on high heat transfer rates from the steam to the medical device. In order to carry out this process as well as possible, the walls of the pressure chamber must be preheated. One way is to heat it with steam from the inside. To investigate this process, a three‐phase CFD model was developed, which can be used to determine the saturation temperature as a function of the partial pressure using a user‐defined function. For validation, the pressure, temperature (fluid and solid) and condensate content were measured. Results show that the model is excellently suited for predicting all relevant variables.
Electrometallurgical recovery of nickel and vanadium from spent desulphurization catalysts using an acidic leaching–electrolysis technique
Authors: Ghalehkhondabi Vahab , Fazlali Alireza , Ghasemi Fatemeh
Published: November 2022

Spent desulphurization catalysts are considered a major secondary source of valuable metals. The contents of nickel and vanadium present in these catalysts, accompanied by environmental rules, have attracted scientists to explore diverse options for their effective processing. The electrometallurgy recovery of Ni and V from the spent desulphurization Ni‐Mo‐V/Al2O3 catalyst is described in this study. Using flat plate graphite electrodes, the electrochemical deposition of Ni and V from spent catalyst in an acid solution (HNO3/H2SO4) was investigated. By the central composite design of the response surface methodology, the effect of the operating factors was examined and optimized. At the ideal conditions of reaction temperatures of 84.0 and 42.0°C, electrolysis times of 5.6 and 4.4 h, liquid/solid ratios of 22.7 and 15.4 ml/g, and current densities of 229.0 and 255.6 A/m2, respectively, the recovery efficiencies of Ni and V were 81.96% and 93.07%. The statistical analysis revealed that the expected data (R2 = 0.9984 and R2 = 0.9883) were in good agreement with the observed data (R2 = 0.9984), with an average variation from experimental data of 0.78% and 0.65% for the optimum conditions of Ni and V recovery, respectively. It shows that the Ni and V nanoparticles deposited have a spherical form with purities of 84.39% and 90.76%, respectively. Because of its great efficiency and purity, the current study can provide a dependable procedure for extracting Ni and V from solid waste.
Microporous Nitrogen‐Rich Polymers via Ullmann Coupling Reaction for Selective Adsorption of C2H2 over CH4†
Authors: Huang Jitao , Peng Qinfang , Liu Chulong , Ye Yingxiang , Chen Liangji , Lv Yuanchao , Yang Yisi , Chen Shimin , Xiang Fahui , Zhang Hao , Zhang Zhangjing , Xiang Shengchang
Published: November 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Acetylene purification from methane is challenging in the field of porous organic polymers (POPs). Herein, we have provided one‐pot Ullmann coupling reaction to synthesize a series of POPs with rich N‐sites, named FJU‐POP‐n, wherein the low‐cost and non‐toxic Cu(acac)2 and environmental‐friendly glycerol are employed as catalyst and solvent, respectively. These POPs constructed by aromatic amine and haloarene monomers exhibit different steric configurations and pore sizes. Among these, FJU‐POP‐4 with abundant N‐functional sites and suitable pore size exhibits ultra‐high selective separation for C2H2/CH4 (307.1, 50 : 50) at ambient conditions, the highest among the reported MOFs and POPs with nitrogen‐sites as only functional species. Dynamic fixed bed breakthrough and regeneration experiments confirm structural stability and reproducibility, indicating their promising application in selective separation.
Tuning the Electromagnetic Shielding Mechanism with Nitrogen‐doped Graphene Aerogels
Authors: Álvarez Marcos , Baselga Juan , Pozuelo Javier
Published: November 2022

The electromagnetic shielding efficiency of a given material can be quantified as the sum of three contributions: reflection, absorption, and multiple reflections, which under certain conditions can be reduced to the first two, which are the main shielding processes decisive for its further application. A simple process to prepare nitrogen‐doped graphene aerogels followed by subsequent thermal treatments is proposed to adapt and control the shielding mechanisms that take place to the possible requirements of the system. Nitrogen‐doped aerogels are prepared by the addition of urea in the hydrothermal synthesis and subsequent heat treatments at 500 and 1000 °C. Reflection/absorption power ratio values of unity down to values as low as 0.2 are obtained. This study represents an advance in electromagnetic shielding materials and the adaptation of these to the needs of different applications, reducing the traditional negative environmental impact of these devices.
Performance evaluation of nonlinear energy scavenging overlay networks
Authors: Le‐Thanh Toi , Ho‐Van Khuong
Published: November 2022

This paper investigates a nonlinear energy scavenging overlay network (NLESON) wherein a primary source (PS) communicates with a primary destination (PD) probably under aid of a secondary source (SS) who communicates with a secondary destination (SD). SS is a power‐constrained device, and thence, its operation relies on energy harvested by a practical nonlinear energy scavenger. To support PS and exploit the harvested energy at most, SS adaptively switches between single and superposition modes where the single mode allows SS to transmit solely its signal with the entire harvested energy and the superposition mode asks SS to transmit both—its signal and amplified primary signal—with different power fractions. Moreover, for increasing the probability of successfully decoding primary signal at PD and SD, which then reduces considerably primary interference on secondary signal in the superposition mode, we leverage both direct channels (PS‐PD and PS‐SD) and apply both signal combining paradigms (maximum ratio combining and selection combining). The outage/throughput performance of the NLESON is assessed quickly through the proposed closed‐form expressions over
shadowed fading channels. Various results exposed the effectiveness of the aforementioned solutions for the NLESON and their flexibility in controlling system performance.
“Can you see me?” Videoconferencing and eating disorder risk during COVID‐19: Anxiety, impairment, and mediators
Authors: Hart Laura M. , Mitchison Deborah , Fuller‐Tyszkiewicz Matthew , Giles Sarah , Fardouly Jasmine , Jarman Hannah K. , Damiano Stephanie R. , McLean Siân A. , Prichard Ivanka , Yager Zali , Krug Isabel
Published: November 2022

Objective

The use of videoconferencing has increased during the pandemic, creating prolonged exposure to self‐image. This research aimed to investigate whether eating disorder (ED) risk was associated with videoconferencing performance for work or study and to explore whether the use of safety behaviors and self‐focused attention mediated the relationship between ED risk and perceived control over performance anxiety, impaired engagement, or avoidance of videoconferencing for work or study.

Method

In 2020, an online survey was distributed within Australia to those aged over 18 years via academic and social networks, measuring: use of videoconferencing for work/study, demographics, ED risk, safety behaviors for appearance concerns, self‐focused attention, perceived control over performance anxiety, perceived engagement impairment, and avoidance of videoconferencing. A total of 640 participants (77.3% female, Mage = 26.2 years) returned complete data and were included in analyses.

Results

245 participants (38.7%) were considered at‐risk for EDs (SCOFF > 2). Those at‐risk reported significantly more safety behaviors, self‐focused attention, impaired engagement, and avoidance, plus lower perceived control over performance anxiety than those not at‐risk. Multiple mediation models found the effects of ED risk on control over performance anxiety, impaired engagement, and avoidance were partially mediated by safety behaviors and self‐focused attention.

Discussion

Our cross‐sectional findings suggest videoconferencing for work/study‐related purposes is associated with performance anxiety, impaired engagement, and avoidance among individuals at‐risk for EDs. Poorer videoconferencing outcomes appear more strongly related to social anxiety variables than ED status. Clinicians and educators may need to provide extra support for those using videoconferencing.

Public Significance

Because videoconferencing often involves seeing your own image (via self‐view) we wondered whether the appearance concerns experienced by those with eating disorders (EDs) might interfere with the ability to focus on or to contribute to work/study videoconferencing meetings. We found that although those with EDs experience more impairments in their videoconferencing engagement/contribution, these were linked just as strongly to social anxiety as they were to appearance concerns.
Infiltration and soil water repellency in Theobroma cacao plantations: Stand and seasonal effects
Authors: Farrick Kegan K. , Gittens Darnell
Published: November 2022

Our understanding of the hydrological processes in cocoa agroforests is extremely limited. Most work has focused on characterising throughfall and transpiration processes under various management approaches and climate change scenarios. However, little is currently understood about how soil water movement is driven by infiltration and hydraulic conductivity. We monitored the soil properties, soil water repellency and hydraulic conductivity in a 5‐, 12‐ and >30‐year‐old cocoa plantation in the wet and dry seasons. During the wet season, repellent conditions were absent in all stands, while the hydraulic conductivity showed no significant differences among them. This suggests that stand age has little effect on water movement during the wet period. During the dry season, the soil at the 5‐ and 12‐year‐old stands became extremely repellent and was twice as severe as that of the >30‐year‐old plantation. It was expected that the extreme repellency in the younger stands would reduce infiltration rates; however, higher rates were recorded in the 5‐ and 12‐year‐old stands. This was likely due to the presence of large, deep soil cracks, which enhanced preferential flow. As the repellency was not significantly correlated with soil properties, we hypothesised that the high grass/sedge cover and temperatures in the 5‐ and 12‐year‐old stands enhanced it. While further research is needed to investigate the role that grass and sedges play in developing repellent conditions, managing their cover may prove beneficial for the growth and survival of young cocoa trees.
High‐frequency decay of Fourier spectra of strong motion acceleration and nonlinear site response
Authors: Gičev Vlado , Trifunac Mihailo D.
Published: November 2022

We examine how the decay of high‐frequency amplitudes of Fourier spectra of strong earthquake ground acceleration (described in seismological literature by the slope parameter ) depends on the soil and geological site conditions at the recording stations in the Los Angeles metropolitan area. Then, we introduce a Gedanken numerical experiment, in which we analyze nonlinear wave motion in shallow soil and show that it also leads to similar decay of the high‐frequency spectral amplitudes. The results of both of our studies are consistent with the interpretation that the decay of high‐frequency Fourier spectra of strong motion acceleration, described by , occurs at the recording site near the ground surface.
Adenovirus vector and mRNA vaccines: Mechanisms regulating their immunogenicity
Authors: Provine Nicholas M. , Klenerman Paul
Published: November 2022

Replication‐incompetent adenovirus (Ad) vector and mRNA‐lipid nanoparticle (LNP) constructs represent two modular vaccine platforms that have attracted substantial interest over the past two decades. Due to the COVID‐19 pandemic and the rapid development of multiple successful vaccines based on these technologies, there is now clear real‐world evidence of the utility and efficacy of these platforms. Considerable optimization and refinement efforts underpin the successful application of these technologies. Despite this, our understanding of the specific pathways and processes engaged by these vaccines to stimulate the immune response remains incomplete. This review will synthesize our current knowledge of the specific mechanisms by which CD8+ T cell and antibody responses are induced by each of these vaccine platforms, and how this can be impacted by specific vaccine construction techniques. Key gaps in our knowledge are also highlighted, which can hopefully focus future studies.
Effects of altered salt intake and diet on cytokines in humans: A 20‐week randomized cross‐over intervention study
Authors: Niiranen Teemu , Erlund Iris , Jalkanen Sirpa , Jula Antti , Salmi Marko
Published: November 2022

High sodium concentration alters leukocyte activation, and in particular T‐helper (Th) lymphocyte polarization, and drives the development of autoimmune diseases in mouse studies. Similar results have been obtained with human leukocytes under in vitro settings and in few observational studies. Therefore, salt has been implicated as a risk factor for autoimmune diseases. Here, we examined whether physiologically relevant changes in salt intake or diet alter cytokine concentrations. In a 20‐wk double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled study 106 participants were randomized to Habitual and Healthy Nordic diets, and further to Usual Sodium and Reduced Sodium intake groups using a cross‐over setup. Plasma concentrations of 45 cytokines were measured at three different time‐points using a multiplex assay. Repeated analyses of covariance revealed that high salt ingestion (or changes in the diet) did not induce significant changes in any of the signature cytokines controlling Th1, Th2 or Th17 polarization. Several other pro‐inflammatory interleukins, chemokines and growth factors were also unaffected by the level of salt intake or changes in the diet. We conclude that in humans clinically relevant changes in salt intake or diet do not have reflections on the systemic concentrations of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in vivo.
Surface sampling capillary electrophoresis–mass spectrometry for a direct chemical characterization of tissue and blood samples
Authors: Golubova Anastasia , Lanekoff Ingela
Published: November 2022

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a powerful separation tool for non‐targeted analysis of chemically complex samples, such as blood, urine, and tissue. However, traditionally CE requires samples in solution for analysis, which limits information on analyte distribution and heterogeneity in tissue. The recent development of surface sampling CE–mass spectrometry (SS‐CE–MS) brings these advantages of CE to solid samples and enables chemical mapping directly from the tissue surface without laborious sample preparation. Here, we describe developments of SS‐CE–MS to increase reproducibility and stability for metabolite, lipid, and protein extraction from tissue sections and dried blood spots. Additionally, we report the first electrokinetic sequential sample injection for high throughput analysis. We foresee that the wide molecular coverage from a distinct tissue region in combination with higher throughput will provide novel information on biological function and dysfunction.
Graphene Aerogel‐Supported Phase‐Change Material for Pyroelectric Energy Harvesting: Structural Modification and Form Stability Analysis
Authors: Yu Chengbin , Song Young Seok
Published: November 2022

3D porous graphene aerogel (GA) has a capability to infiltrate plenty of phase‐change materials (PCM) into the internal pore. Since carbon‐based materials can offer excellent solar light absorption and conversion of thermal energy, they are widely used as container‐like supporting materials. In general, the GA shows a volume shrinkage problem due to the capillary force during the infiltration process, thus causing a loss in pore volume, that is, PCM weight loss. The PCM amount is proportional to both the absorbed and released thermal energies. Herein, cysteamine is introduced to bind GA. The PCM composite can reduce the volume shrinkage and have an excellent form stability even under the external force. Two kinds of PCMs are connected to a pyroelectric electrode to generate electrical energy. In addition, finite‐element method estimates the temperature profile and electrical peaks to confirm experimental results.
Mixed transitional metal oxide of MnFe2O4 synthesized by solution combustion method and their electrochemical applications
Authors: Kommu Parameshwar , Dash Ritambhara , Singh Gajendra Prasad , Bhattacharyya Arnab S.
Published: November 2022

Mixed transition metal oxide (MTMO) MnFe2O4 was synthesized by the solution combustion method. The X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the cubic spinel structure with space group Fd3m. A specific capacity of 136 mAh g−1 in 1 M KOH and 193 mAh g−1 in 1 M LiOH was obtained through cyclic voltammetry. The formation of nanoparticles of size around 40 nm and porous nature of the surface was observed under field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) which reveals its use as electrode material in Li‐ion batteries. An absorption edge around 500 nm and a band gap of 1.56 eV were obtained from UV spectra. This lower band gap will cause easier excitation of the electrons useful for energy storage devices.
Mining industrial materials as heterogeneous catalyst for high value‐added cyclic carbonates production from CO2
Authors: Kanteler Christos , García‐Zubiri Íñigo X. , Pérez Pilar , Sopeña Sergio , Viciano Mónica
Published: November 2022

Chemical fixation of CO2 and its utilization as C1 building block into fine chemicals are among key areas of research to mitigate greenhouse gas effect. The catalysts requirement to form cyclic organic carbonates by coupling reaction between CO2 and epoxides is a well‐stablished strategy for CO2 fixation. In this work, this coupling reaction has been investigated using a catalytic system comprised by a selected industrial mining raw material, with potential valorization interest, and a commercial cocatalyst. Herein, industrial mining raw materials are explored as a renewable, recyclable, nontoxic, cheap, and ready‐available catalysts for the transformation of CO2 into highly valuable products such as cyclic carbonates. Initial experiments with the mining materials and alternative by‐products of industrial valorization interest were carried out using propylene oxide (OP) as an initial selected oxirane. The most active raw materials were fully characterized to study their morphology, composition, and surface hydroxyl groups to determine active basic sites as novel heterogeneous base catalysts. The achieved yield of cyclic carbonate in these preliminary experiments was observed in the range of 37–85% for the different tested catalysts. In the case of the most active by‐product used as catalyst (Sulfamag), propylene carbonate reached the yield of 85% as a higher result obtained under mild conditions. Sulfamag was selected to optimize reaction conditions, including the study of different cocatalysts. Moreover, coupling reactions between CO2 and other aliphatic and aromatic epoxides were also performed efficiently for Sulfamag, showing yields between 71 and 91% and selectivity of 99% under mild conditions, demonstrating their potential as a renewable raw material solid‐based heterogeneous catalyst in the synthesis of different cyclic carbonates from CO2 and epoxides. Furthermore, Sulfamag showed high recycling efficiency in a test of four cycles and the deactivation of catalyst was compared with commercially available MgO. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neural mechanisms of background and velocity effects in smooth pursuit eye movements
Authors: Schröder Rebekka , Keidel Kristof , Trautner Peter , Radbruch Alexander , Ettinger Ulrich
Published: November 2022

Smooth pursuit eye movements (SPEM) are essential to guide behaviour in complex visual environments. SPEM accuracy is known to be degraded by the presence of a structured visual background and at higher target velocities. The aim of this preregistered study was to investigate the neural mechanisms of these robust behavioural effects. N = 33 participants performed a SPEM task with two background conditions (present and absent) at two target velocities (0.4 and 0.6 Hz). Eye movement and BOLD data were collected simultaneously. Both the presence of a structured background and faster target velocity decreased pursuit gain and increased catch‐up saccade rate. Faster targets additionally increased position error. Higher BOLD response with background was found in extensive clusters in visual, parietal, and frontal areas (including the medial frontal eye fields; FEF) partially overlapping with the known SPEM network. Faster targets were associated with higher BOLD response in visual cortex and left lateral FEF. Task‐based functional connectivity analyses (psychophysiological interactions; PPI) largely replicated previous results in the basic SPEM network but did not yield additional information regarding the neural underpinnings of the background and velocity effects. The results show that the presentation of visual background stimuli during SPEM induces activity in a widespread visuo‐parieto‐frontal network including areas contributing to cognitive aspects of oculomotor control such as medial FEF, whereas the response to higher target velocity involves visual and motor areas such as lateral FEF. Therefore, we were able to propose for the first time different functions of the medial and lateral FEF during SPEM.
Spatial variation of grassland canopy affects soil wetting patterns and preferential flow
Authors: Demir Gökben , Michalzik Beate , Filipzik Janett , Metzger Johanna Clara , Hildebrandt Anke
Published: November 2022

Canopies shape net precipitation patterns, which are spatially heterogeneous and control soil moisture response to rainfall. The vast majority of studies on canopy water fluxes were conducted in forests. In contrast, grassland canopies are often assumed to be spatially homogeneous, therefore likely not inducing patches of heterogeneity at and below the soil surface. However, some studies on short‐structured vegetation, such as grasslands, proposed the importance of canopy‐induced heterogeneity for net precipitation. Still, systematic investigations on the effects on soil wetting patterns are missing. Therefore, in this study, we investigated soil moisture response to rainfall in a managed temperate grassland by exploring the individual impacts of spatially varying throughfall, vegetation height, and antecedent soil moisture status on the soil wetting patterns. We applied linear mixed effects models to disentangle the role of grassland canopy versus abiotic drivers. The spatial average soil water response showed diminishing water amounts stored in the upper parts of the soil as the growing season progressed and the soils dried, indicating bypass flow. Spatial variation of grass height was a significant driver of soil wetting patterns along with precipitation and antecedent soil moisture status. Soil wetting was suppressed in locations with tall canopies, although surprisingly, this was not directly related to throughfall patterns. Instead, our results suggest that seasonally drier conditions and the spatial difference in grass development amplify fast flow processes. Ultimately, our results confirm that spatial variation of the canopy affects soil moisture wetting patterns not only in forests but indicate a strong influence of preferential flow on soil water patterns in managed grassland as well.
NGLY1 Deficiency: A Rare Genetic Disorder Unlocks Therapeutic Potential for Common Diseases
Authors: Walber Simon , Partalidou Georgia , Gerling‐Driessen Ulla I. M.
Published: November 2022

The enzyme catalysing the removal of N‐linked glycans from misfolded glycoproteins in the cytosol is an evolutionary well‐conserved glycanase called Peptide:N‐glycanase (PNGase; NGLY1 in humans). NGLY1 hydrolyses the amide bond between an Asn and the proximal N‐acetylglucosamine (GlcNAc) of the attached N‐glycan, thereby converting that particular Asn to Asp. Loss of NGLY1 due to heterozygous‐inactivating mutations cause a rare congenital disorder with a multisystemic clinical phenotype. Since the first case report in 2012, extensive research aiming at understanding the pathophysiology of the disease, revealed several crucial biological functions and pathways that involve NGLY1. Here, we highlight the research progress of the past decade. A special emphasis is given to the important role that NGLY1 plays in the transactivation of the transcription factor (NFE2L1; NRF1) that regulates many processes of cellular homeostasis, including proteasome bounce back and oxidative stress response.
Approach to urethral obstruction in cats. Part 3: addressing underlying concerns and preventing recurrence
Authors: Breheny Craig , McPeake Kevin , Miele Amy , Gunn‐Moore Danièlle
Published: November 2022

Background: The management of cats with urethral obstruction does not end in the clinic. Unless the underlying cause of urethral obstruction is addressed, this problem is likely to recur and this requires a multimodal approach that includes a behavioural assessment and evaluation of the cat's home environment.

Aim of the article: This is the final article in a three‐part series on urethral obstruction in cats. This article focuses on home management to prevent recurrent obstruction, and on addressing underlying feline idiopathic cystitis. The first article discussed presentation and stabilisation, while the second summarised urethral catheterisation and immediate postcatheterisation management.
Servicing and maintaining your practice equipment
Authors: Brown Scott , Butcher Joe
Published: November 2022

The aim of this article is to highlight the importance of, and legal requirements for, regular servicing and routine maintenance of medical equipment in the veterinary practice. Regular servicing will not only ensure that the equipment is ready to be used when needed by veterinary clinical staff (and therefore provide accurate information to aid diagnosis and treatment of patients), but also to guarantee that the animals in the care of a practice and its staff will not be subject to risk from the medical equipment being used. The servicing of medical equipment requires specialist skills and sophisticated test equipment, and this activity should be assigned to professional companies offering these services.
Overview of TFAST and AFAST: point‐of‐care ultrasounds and how to perform them
Authors: Lewis Dan , Bassolino Serena
Published: November 2022

Background: Assessment of emergency patients can be fraught with difficulty. The adoption of certain, straightforward ultrasound techniques can add vital information to assist veterinary surgeons with both initial triage and disease progression.

Aim of the article: This article aims to provide an introductory guide to performing point‐of‐care ultrasound for veterinary practitioners, as well as detailing some of the diagnostic information that can be obtained.
p62 bodies: Phase separation, NRF2 activation, and selective autophagic degradation
Authors: Komatsu Masaaki
Published: November 2022

When p62/Sequestosome‐1 binds to a ubiquitinated protein, it undergoes liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) and forms a membraneless organelle, p62 body. There are two major physiological functions of the p62 body. One is effective autophagic degradation of ubiquitinated proteins and the other is antioxidant stress response, both of which contribute to cellular homeostasis. In this review, I review the history of p62 research in relation to autophagy and outline the formation, degradation, and physiological functions of the p62 body.
Obeticholic acid improved triptolide/lipopolysaccharide‐induced hepatotoxicity by inhibiting caspase‐11‐GSDMD pyroptosis pathway
Authors: Liang Peishi , Zhou Shaoyun , Yuan Ziqiao , Zhang Luyong , Jiang Zhenzhou , Yu Qinwei
Published: November 2022

This study was designed to investigate the potential role of farnesoid X receptor (FXR) in abnormal bile acid metabolism and pyroptosis during the pathogenesis of triptolide (TP)/lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced hepatotoxicity. Moreover, the protective effect of obeticholic acid (OCA) was explored under this condition. In vivo, female C57BL/6 mice were administrated with OCA (40 mg/kg bw, intragastrical injection) before (500 μg/kg bw, intragastrical injection)/LPS (0.1 mg/kg bw, intraperitoneal injection) administration. In vitro, AML12 cells were treated with TP (50 nM) and TNF‐α (50 ng/ml) to induce hepatotoxicity; GW4064 (5 μM) and cholestyramine (CHO) (0.1 mg/ml and 0.05 mg/ml) were introduced to explain the role of FXR/total bile acid (TBA) in it. Serum TBA level was significantly elevated, which was induced by FXR suppression. And both GW4064 and CHO intervention presented remarkable protective effects against TP/TNF‐α‐induced NLRP3 upregulation and pyroptosis pathway activation. Pre‐administration of FXR agonist OCA successfully attenuated TP/LPS‐induced severe liver injury by reducing serum bile acids accumulation and inhibiting the activation of caspase‐11‐GSDMD (gasdermin D) pyroptosis pathway. We have drawn conclusions that TP aggravated liver hypersensitivity to LPS and inhibited FXR‐SHP (small heterodimer partner) axis, which was served as endogenous signals to activate caspase‐11‐GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis contributing to liver injury. OCA alleviated TP/LPS‐induced liver injury accompanied by inhibiting caspase‐11‐GSDMD‐mediated pyroptosis pathway and decreased serum TBA level. The results indicated that FXR might be an attractive therapeutic target for TP/LPS‐induced hepatotoxicity, providing an effective strategy for drug‐induced liver injury.
Front Cover
Authors: Lee Yong‐Jae , Park Eunwoo , Park Kwan Seob , Lim Jun‐Hyuk , Kim Sungmin , Kim Myung‐Sun , Eom Tae Joong
Published: November 2022

Histological analysis is widely used to evaluate injured tendons; however, it has the limitation of being semi‐quantitative. Hence, a quantification method to objectively evaluate the fibrous structure of tendons was developed with exhibiting the optical property of birefringence by using polarization‐sensitive optical coherence tomography (PS‐OCT). The phase retardation images was quantified according to the degree of repetition of the period. The obtained frequency value of the peak from the Fourier transform of the periodic pattern in the phase retardation image indicates the degree of the structural arrangement of collagen fibers. The better the arrangement of the collagen fibers results the higher the frequency values, and a disordered collagen fiber architecture results in a lower repetition frequency value. The scoring method well represented the fibrous structural changes of the injured Achilles tendon according to the wound healing state with a partial‐rupture rat model. Further details can be found in the article by Yong‐Jae Lee, Eunwoo Park, Kwan Seob Park, Jun‐Hyuk Lim, Sungmin Kim, Myung‐Sun Kim, and Tae Joong Eom (e202200065).

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Production of alginates with high viscosifying power and molecular weight by using the AT9 strain of Azotobacter vinelandii in batch cultures under different oxygen transfer conditions
Authors: Medina Abraham , Castillo Tania , Flores Celia , Núñez Cinthia , Galindo Enrique , Peña Carlos
Published: November 2022

Background

Alginate is a polysaccharide constituted by β‐d‐mannuronic acid and α‐l‐guluronic which has several applications in the field of tissue engineering, drug delivery and other biomedical applications. This study aimed to evaluate the production, molecular weight (MW) and viscosifying power of the alginate produced by the strain AT9 cultured in a 3‐L reactor, under three different oxygen transfer rates (OTR).

Results

An increase in the OTRmax, in the range of 3.6–12.4 mmol L−1 h−1 promoted cellular growth and alginate production in the cultures, reaching a specific growth rate of 0.14 h−1 and a maximal alginate concentration of 2.9 g L−1 in cultures developed at 12.4 mmol L−1 h−1. By contrast, at low OTR (3.6 mmol L−1 h−1) a maximal molecular weight of 2927 kDa was obtained and at high OTRmax (12.4 mmol L−1 h−1) the maximal acetylation degree (2–3%) was reached. As a result of the higher acetylation of the alginate, the viscosifying power was the highest (3.16 L g−1).

Conclusion

Overall, our results indicate that by controlling the OTRmax it is possible to manipulate the MW, the acetylation degree and the viscosifying power of bacterial alginates produced by strain AT9. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Development of recombinant adenovirus vector herpes zoster vaccine production process using perfusion strategy with tangential flow filtration system
Authors: Sun Yang , Feng Kai , Nie Jianqi , Huang Lingling , Liu Yupeng , Bai Zhonghu
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Herpes zoster (HZ) causes painful skin and nerve lesions, and its most frequent complication is postherpetic neuralgia. Currently, vaccination is recommended to decrease the incidence of HZ, and cost‐effective vaccine production strategies are required to produce low‐cost vaccines. Perfusion cultivation is now a common trend for increasing bioreactor productivity and overcoming nutritional limitations. The tangential flow filtration (TFF) system has proven to be suitable for perfusion cultures of mammalian cells. However, perfusion cultivation exponentially increases medium consumption, and a proper perfusion strategy should be developed to supply nutrition and save medium at the same time.

RESULTS

In this study, an HEK 293 cell‐based recombinant adenovirus vector herpes zoster (rAdV‐HZ) vaccine production process was developed using a novel TFF perfusion system. First, the perfusion start time, perfusion rate, and glutamine concentration were investigated in shake flasks to increase the cell density with an economical perfusion strategy. Then, the key process parameters (cell concentration at infection, multiplicity of infection, and virus production media) of the rAdV‐HZ production process were optimized using the design of experiments approach, and the robust setpoint and design space of the key process parameters were obtained. Finally, the process parameters at the robust setpoint were successfully scaled up to a 7 L bioreactor with a novel TFF system, yielding an rAdV‐HZ titer of 1.7 × 1010 infectious units mL−1.

CONCLUSION

This study can serve as a baseline for developing an economical perfusion strategy for the large‐scale production of recombinant adenovirus vector‐based vaccines. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Gendered dynamics of state‐led smallholder commercialisation in Ghana. The case of Nkoranza traditional area
Authors: Kugbega Selorm Kobla , Andersson Djurfeldt Agnes
Published: November 2022

Commercial smallholder production is touted as a mechanism for reducing rural poverty and transforming African agriculture. In line with this ideology, the Ghanaian state introduced two policies to provide incentives for commercial food and tree crop cultivation among smallholder farmers. Policy implementation is done in a blanket manner without considerations of gendered differences in agricultural asset distribution, such as land, and the particular sociocultural opportunities and constraints men and women face in undertaking commercial production. The paper investigates these gendered trajectories using a qualitative methodology. Results reveal the varied nature of women's constraints and related levels of vulnerability. Although native women are structurally disadvantaged in commercial food crop production, tree crop commercialisation presents an opportunity for them to reclaim dormant land rights safeguarded by their male kin. These results provide perspective for considering gender‐sensitive agricultural incentives as well as potential for leveraging on the tree crop sector for attaining gender neutrality.
The social contract in Egypt, Lebanon and Tunisia: What do the people want?
Authors: Loewe Markus , Albrecht Holger
Published: November 2022

This article investigates the demand side of social contracts. It asks what people expect from their governments. Drawing on original, nationally representative surveys in Egypt, Tunisia and Lebanon, it explores popular preferences for the three possible government deliverables in social contracts: provision of social and economic services, protection from physical harm and political participation. Findings reveal that citizens expect governments to deliver all three ‘Ps’ (even if this costs a price), yet preferring provision over protection and participation if they have to prioritize. Findings do not show robust preferences among social groups identified by economic, gender, educational and communal differences.