bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of the Enantioselectivity and Recognition Mechanism of Allyl‐β‐CD Modified Organic Polymer Monolithic Capillary Column
Authors: Jia Chaoheng , Li Futao , Li Anqi , Li Qiwen , Huang Lu
Published: July 2024

Allyl‐β‐CD was synthesized and used as the chiral functional monomer to prepare chiral organic polymer monolithic columns in capillary HPLC. First, the enantioselectivity of the prepared allyl‐β‐CD modified organic polymer monolithic capillary columns was investigated. Then, the influences of enantioseparation conditions of chiral drugs were further explored. Finally, the recognition mechanism was studied by molecular docking with AutoDock. Complete enantioseparations of four chiral drugs as well as partial enantioseparations of eight chiral drugs have been achieved. Results showed that the RSD values for run‐to‐run, day‐to‐day, and column‐to‐column variations ranged from 1.2% to 4.6%, 1.4% to 4.7%, and 2.0% to 6.1%, respectively. The enantioselectivity factor rather than resolution is correlated with the binding free energy difference between enantiomers with allyl‐β‐CD. Furthermore, the abundant ether bonds, hydroxyl groups, and hydrophobic cavities in cyclodextrin are responsible for the enantioseparation ability of the chiral monolithic capillary columns.
Der Geschmack des schwarzen Goldes
Authors: Hübner Karl
Published: July 2024

Vanille ist eine der bedeutendsten Geschmacks‐ und Duftnoten in der Welt der Lebensmittel und Parfüms. Die wichtigste Aroma‐Komponente der Vanille‐Schote ist dabei Vanillin. 1874 wurde zum ersten Mal ein chemischer Syntheseweg für diese Substanz patentiert. Bis heute hat die Herstellung von Vanillin große industrielle Bedeutung. Die Syntheserouten haben sich dabei im Laufe von 150 Jahren häufig verändert.
Tailoring neoadjuvant systemic therapy in breast cancer: “The advent of a personalized approach”—The Breast‐Gynecological and Immuno‐Oncology International Cancer Conference (BGICC) consensus and recommendations
Authors: Elghazaly Hesham , Azim Hamdy A. , Rugo Hope S. , Cameron David , Swain Sandra M. , Curigliano Giuseppe , Harbeck Nadia , Tripathy Debu , Arun Banu , Aapro Matti , Piccart Martine , Cardoso Fatima , Gligorov Joseph , Elghazawy Hagar , El Saghir Nagi S. , Penault‐Llorca Frederique , Perez Edith A. , Poortmans Philip , Abdelaziz Hany , El‐Zawahry Heba M. , Kassem Loay , Sabry Mohamed , Viale Giuseppe , Al‐Sukhun Sana , Gado Neven , Leung Jessica W. T. , Ezz Elarab Lobna , Cardoso Maria João , Abdel Karim Khaled , Foheidi Meteb , Elmaadawy Merit M. , Conte Pierfranco , Selim Ashraf S. M. , Kandil Alaa , Kamal Rasha M. , Paltuev Ruslan M. , Guarneri Valentina , Abulkhair Omalkhair , Zakaria Omar , Golshan Mehra , Orecchia Roberto , ElMahdy Manal , Abdel‐Aziz Ahmed M. , Eldin Nermean Bahie
Published: July 2024

Background

The management of early breast cancer (BC) has witnessed an uprise in the use of neoadjuvant therapy and a remarkable reshaping of the systemic therapy postneoadjuvant treatment in the last few years, with the evolution of many controversial clinical situations that require consensus.

Methods

During the 14th Breast‐Gynecological and Immuno‐Oncology International Cancer Conference held in Egypt in 2022, a panel of 44 BC experts from 13 countries voted on statements concerning debatable challenges in the neo/adjuvant treatment setting. The recommendations were subsequently updated based on the most recent data emerging. A modified Delphi approach was used to develop this consensus. A consensus was achieved when ≥75% of voters selected an answer.

Results and Conclusions

The consensus recommendations addressed different escalation and de‐escalation strategies in the setting of neoadjuvant therapy for early BC. The recommendations recapitulate the available clinical evidence and expert opinion to individualize patient management and optimize therapy outcomes. Consensus was reached in 63% of the statements (52/83), and the rationale behind each statement was clarified.
Encapsulated Atomic Hydrogen in Octamethyl‐POSS Cages: A Pulsed EPR Study
Authors: Mitrikas G.
Published: July 2024

Encapsulated atomic hydrogen in polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) cages is a promising candidate for spin‐based quantum technologies. Key parameters such as spin relaxation times and magnetic interactions with surrounding electron and nuclear spins can be typically probed with advanced electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) methods. Here we present a detailed pulsed EPR study of the species H@Si8O12R8 with R=CH3, namely encapsulated atomic hydrogen in the octamethyl POSS derivative. The temperature dependence of the spin‐lattice relaxation rate 1/
is analyzed in terms of a Raman process with a Debye temperature of
K and a thermally activated process with
(552 cm−1), whereas, the phase memory time
shows the typical shortening behaviour at
K observed for all methyl‐containing derivatives. The hyperfine coupling of the cage
Si nuclei is measured by hyperfine sublevel correlation (HYSCORE) spectroscopy and is found to fulfil the so‐called “matching condition” at the low‐field EPR transition. The potential of this paramagnetic molecule to perform one‐qubit quantum operations is probed by room‐temperature Rabi oscillations.
Protocol for the Growth and Maturation of hiPSC‐Derived Kidney Organoids using Mechanically Defined Hydrogels
Authors: Krupa Ivan , Treacy Niall J. , Clerkin Shane , Davis Jessica L. , Miller Aline F. , Saiani Alberto , Wychowaniec Jacek K. , Reynaud Emmanuel G. , Brougham Dermot F. , Crean John
Published: July 2024

With recent advances in the reprogramming of somatic cells into induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs), gene editing technologies, and protocols for the directed differentiation of stem cells into heterogeneous tissues, iPSC‐derived kidney organoids have emerged as a useful means to study processes of renal development and disease. Considerable advances guided by knowledge of fundamental renal developmental signaling pathways have been made with the use of exogenous morphogens to generate more robust kidney‐like tissues in vitro. However, both biochemical and biophysical microenvironmental cues are major influences on tissue development and self‐organization. In the context of engineering the biophysical aspects of the microenvironment, the use of hydrogel extracellular scaffolds for organoid studies has been gaining interest. Two families of hydrogels have recently been the subject of significant attention: self‐assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs), which are fully synthetic and chemically defined, and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels, which are semi‐synthetic. Both can be used as support matrices for growing kidney organoids. Based on our recently published work, we highlight methods describing the generation of human iPSC (hiPSC)‐derived kidney organoids and their maturation within SAPHs and GelMA hydrogels. We also detail protocols required for the characterization of such organoids using immunofluorescence imaging. Together, these protocols should enable the user to grow hiPSC‐derived kidney organoids within hydrogels of this kind and evaluate the effects that the biophysical microenvironment provided by the hydrogels has on kidney organoid maturation. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Directed differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) into kidney organoids and maturation within mechanically tunable self‐assembling peptide hydrogels (SAPHs)

Alternate Protocol: Encapsulation of day 9 nephron progenitor aggregates in gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogels.

Support Protocol 1: Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) culture.

Support Protocol 2: Organoid fixation with paraformaldehyde (PFA)

Basic Protocol 2: Whole‐mount immunofluorescence imaging of kidney organoids.

Basic Protocol 3: Immunofluorescence of organoid cryosections
Analysis of Mucin‐Domain Glycoproteins Using Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Mahoney Keira E. , Malaker Stacy A.
Published: July 2024

Mucin‐domain glycoproteins are characterized by their high density of glycosylated serine and threonine residues, which complicates their analysis by mass spectrometry. The dense glycosylation renders the protein backbone inaccessible to workhorse proteases like trypsin, the vast heterogeneity of glycosylation often results in ion suppression from unmodified peptides, and search algorithms struggle to confidently analyze and site‐localize O‐glycosites. We have made a number of advances to address these challenges, rendering mucinomics possible for the first time. Here, we summarize these contributions and provide a detailed protocol for mass spectrometric analysis of mucin‐domain glycoproteins. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Enrichment of mucin‐domain glycoproteins

Basic Protocol 2: Enzymatic digestion of mucin‐domain glycoprotein(s)

Basic Protocol 3: Mass spectrometry data collection for O‐glycopeptides

Basic Protocol 4: Mass spectrometry data analysis of O‐glycopeptides
Design of low‐stress ultrahigh‐gain dc–dc converter with coupled inductor
Authors: Quan Limin , Zhang Min , Zhang Yong , Yuan Chenggong
Published: July 2024

The dc–dc converter plays a vital role in renewable energy power generation systems. To enhance the boost range and supply stable output voltage for the power grid, This paper propose an improved low‐stress ultrahigh‐gain dc–dc converter. First, a voltage multiplier cell is designed stemming from a three‐winding coupled inductor and a switched capacitor (SC), which can obtain ultrahigh voltage gain. In the improved voltage multiplier cell, the number of semiconductor devices is reduced, resulting in a decrease in capacitor voltage stress. Moreover, a passive clamp circuit uses the new SC, which can suppress oscillation peak voltage and absorb the leakage energy of the coupled winding. Furthermore, we deduce the operating mode of the proposed converter . Compared with other advanced topologies, the proposed topology outperforms boosting capacity, component stress, and efficiency. To stabilize the output voltage, the converter is closed‐loop controlled. Finally, experiments on the 180 W prototype have demonstrated the reliability and effectiveness of the proposed topology.
Temporal and individual variation in the feeding habits of Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus)
Authors: Mori Tomoki , Mori Saki N. , Izumiyama Shigeyuki
Published: July 2024

Foraging plays a vital role in the survival of wildlife, and shifts in food availability can impact species fitness and survival. Ursids are known to consume a wide variety of foods and are known to be opportunistic omnivores. Consequently, seasonal shifts in diet, which correspond to temporal and spatial shifts in the availability of food resources, have long captivated researchers studying the foraging behavior of Ursidae. Nevertheless, comprehensive dietary studies encompassing both the population and individual levels remain scarce. In this study, we investigated the dietary patterns of Asiatic black bears (Ursus thibetanus) at both the population and individual levels, using data collected through GPS collars and field surveys of individual bear scat samples in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, from 2016 to 2020. From early April to late June, bears mainly foraged on green vegetation. During this period, male and large‐bodied female bears showed a strong preference for green vegetation. Small‐bodied female bears also ate mostly green vegetation but tended to consume more fruit than other bears towards the end of this period. From June to October, bears' diets included a substantial amount of fruit, with notable peaks in fruit consumption in late June and early September. During the summer months, female bears often incorporated social insects into their diet compared to the population‐level trend. In mid‐September, the consumption of seeds from the Fagaceae family surged, becoming the primary dietary component during this period. This trend was consistently observed across the population. These findings underscore the importance conducting in‐depth dietary analyses that take into account individual characteristics such as sex, age, and body weight.
Genetic diversity and shallow genetic differentiation of the endangered scaly‐sided merganser Mergus squamatus
Authors: Shen Yulong , Gong Ye , Solovyeva Diana , Wang Lin , Li Mu , Hu Mengxuan , Jiang Yiwei , Vartanyan Sergey , Wang Haitao
Published: July 2024

Examining patterns of genetic diversity are crucial for conservation planning on endangered species, while inferring the underlying process of recent anthropogenic habitat modifications in the context potential long‐term demographic changes remains challenging. The globally endangered scaly‐sided merganser (SSME), Mergus squamatus, is endemic to a narrow range in Northeast Asia, and its population has recently been contracted into two main breeding areas. Although low genetic diversity has been suggested in the Russian population, the genetic status and demographic history of these individuals have not been fully elucidated. We therefore examined the genetic diversity and structure of the breeding populations of the SSME and investigated the relative importance of historical and recent demographic changes to the present‐day pattern of genetic diversity. Using 10 nuclear microsatellite (SSR) markers and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region sequences, we found limited female‐inherited genetic diversity and a high level of nuclear genetic diversity. In addition, analysis of both markers consistently revealed significant but weak divergence between the breeding populations. Inconsistent demographic history parameters calculated from mtDNA and bottleneck analysis results based on SSR suggested a stable historical effective population size. By applying approximate Bayesian computation, it was estimated that populations started to genetically diverge from each other due to recent fragmentation events caused by anthropogenic effects rather than isolation during Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) and post‐LGM recolonization. These results suggest that limited historical population size and shallow evolutionary history may be potential factors contributing to the contemporary genetic diversity pattern of breeding SSME populations. Conservation efforts should focus on protecting the current breeding habitats from further destruction, with priority given to both the Russian and Chinese population, as well as restoring the connected suitable breeding grounds.
Eligibility of Asian and European registry patients for phase III trials in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction
Authors: Lim Yvonne Mei Fong , Asselbergs Folkert W. , Bagheri Ayoub , Denaxas Spiros , Tay Wan Ting , Voors Adriaan , Lam Carolyn Su Ping , Koudstaal Stefan , Grobbee Diederick E. , Vaartjes Ilonca
Published: July 2024

Aims

Traditional approaches to designing clinical trials for heart failure (HF) have historically relied on expertise and past practices. However, the evolving landscape of healthcare, marked by the advent of novel data science applications and increased data availability, offers a compelling opportunity to transition towards a data‐driven paradigm in trial design. This research aims to evaluate the scope and determinants of disparities between clinical trials and registries by leveraging natural language processing for the analysis of trial eligibility criteria. The findings contribute to the establishment of a robust design framework for guiding future HF trials.

Methods and results

Interventional phase III trials registered for HF on ClinicalTrials.gov as of the end of 2021 were identified. Natural language processing was used to extract and structure the eligibility criteria for quantitative analysis. The most common criteria for HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) were applied to estimate patient eligibility as a proportion of registry patients in the ASIAN‐HF (N = 4868) and BIOSTAT‐CHF registries (N = 2545). Of the 375 phase III trials for HF, 163 HFrEF trials were identified. In these trials, the most frequently encountered inclusion criteria were New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class (69%), worsening HF (23%), and natriuretic peptides (18%), whereas the most frequent comorbidity‐based exclusion criteria were acute coronary syndrome (64%), renal disease (55%), and valvular heart disease (47%). On average, 20% of registry patients were eligible for HFrEF trials. Eligibility distributions did not differ (P = 0.18) between Asian [median eligibility 0.20, interquartile range (IQR) 0.08–0.43] and European registry populations (median 0.17, IQR 0.06–0.39). With time, HFrEF trials became more restrictive, where patient eligibility declined from 0.40 in 1985–2005 to 0.19 in 2016–2022 (P = 0.03). When frequency among trials is taken into consideration, the eligibility criteria that were most restrictive were prior myocardial infarction, NYHA class, age, and prior HF hospitalization.

Conclusions

Based on 14 trial criteria, only one‐fifth of registry patients were eligible for phase III HFrEF trials. Overall eligibility rates did not differ between the Asian and European patient cohorts.
Tungsten oxide‐iodide/poly‐2‐aminobenzenethiol nanocomposite with iodine intercalation as a promising electrode for potentiometric sensing of Pb2+ ions in water
Authors: Alnuwaiser Maha Abdallah , Rabia Mohamed
Published: July 2024

Tungsten oxide‐iodide/poly‐2‐aminobenzenethiol nanocomposite (WO2I2/P2ABT) is created through the introduction of iodine into polymer chains, where iodine serves as an oxidizing agent during the synthesis process. With a highly porous structure, the sensing capabilities of WO2I2/P2ABT for detecting Pb2+ ions are successfully demonstrated, revealing a Nernstian slope of 26.2 mV/decade. This detection is accomplished through a simple potentiometric technique, employing a simple two‐electrode cell setup. To further validate its performance, cyclic voltammetry is conducted using a three‐electrode system, revealing a remarkable sensitivity of 7.2 × 10−5 A M−1 for Pb2+ ions. The nanocomposite sensor's selectivity is rigorously examined by subjecting it to testing in the presence of 0.01 M interfering ions. The results unequivocally demonstrate that the sensor remains unresponsive to these interfering ions, underscoring its remarkable selectivity for Pb2+ ions. Moreover, the sensor's behavior is evaluated under real‐world conditions using natural samples, where, no indications of interference from other ions are observed. This is estimated by the absence of cyclic peaks in the voltammogram, indicating the sensor's unique ability to selectively detect Pb2+ ions without being perturbed by other ions that may be naturally occurring in the samples. These findings emphasize the nanocomposite sensor's potential for a wide array of applications in environmental monitoring and analytical chemistry. Its extraordinary combination of high sensitivity, impeccable selectivity, and robust performance in practical scenarios establishes it as an invaluable tool for detecting Pb2+ ions across various contexts.
Effect of fertilizers on yield, phytochemical, and antioxidant properties of Cucurbita moschata fruits
Authors: Vanessa Boudjeka Guemkam , Alice Tchiazé Ifoué , William Djeukeu Asongni , Adelaide Demasse Mawamba , Gisèle Loé‐Etame , Condurache Nina‐Nicoleta , Milea Ștefania‐Adelina , Cotarlet Mihaela , Fabrice Dongho Dongmo , Inocent Gouado , Iordachescu Gabriela
Published: July 2024

The nutritional and functional properties of squashes are influenced by various factors, such as the stage of plant development, soil composition, and type of fertilizer. This study evaluates the impact of various organic fertilizers on Cucurbita moschata D. properties. For this purpose, squashes were fertilized using Ash at 10 kg/25 m2, bovine compost at 62.5 kg/25 m2, and a 1:1 mixture of ash and bovine compost. Negative control (without fertilizers) and positive control (NPK 20‐10‐10 at 2 kg/25 m2) were included. Post‐harvest, the yield, carotenoids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and antioxidant activities were assessed. Ash fertilizer resulted in the highest number of fruits per plant (2.20 ± 0.16). Regarding flavonoids, the bovine compost yielded the highest level (428.67 ± 2.62 mg/100 g of edible portion). The mixture of ash and bovine compost produced fruits with the highest content of total carotenoids, β‐carotene, lycopene, and total phenolic compounds (249.7 ± 3.68, 219.80 ± 3.41, 26.07 ± 0.41, and 575.00 ± 9.95 mg/100 g of edible portion, respectively). Moreover, carotenoids extracted from this mixture exhibited the highest inhibition of DPPH and ABTS free radicals (30.87 ± 0.65 and 47.32 ± 1.30%, respectively). This research suggests that the use of a mixture of ash and bovine compost could significantly enhance the yield of squashes and their phytochemical and antioxidant potential.
Synthesis and evaluation of Maillard conjugates for encapsulation and controlled delivery of quercetin under simulated gastrointestinal tract conditions
Authors: Cabrera‐Ramírez Angel H. , Manríquez‐Medina Marisol , Romero‐Robles Laura E. , Chavez‐Santoscoy Rocio A.
Published: July 2024

Encapsulation of bioactive molecules for therapeutic use is gaining great interest in the scientific community. Several encapsulation methodologies have been evaluated, sacrificing, in some cases, either encapsulation efficiency or compound integrity. Our work developed Maillard conjugates (MCs) based on the whey protein (WP)‐Maltodextrin (MD) interaction to encapsulate quercetin by freeze‐drying. The WP:MD ratio used (1:2 or 1:3) yielded the formation of MCs, demonstrated by an increased browning index and changes in the protein secondary structure. Freeze‐drying showed high encapsulation efficiency, reaching 87.65% and 84.72% in treatments loaded with 3.3 mg quercetin/g MCs. Quercetin‐loaded MCs showed spherical‐shape (4–10 μm) and a negative charge, suggesting colloidal stability. Moreover, in vitro tests demonstrated a sustained release of quercetin throughout the oral, gastric, and intestinal phases, highlighting the MCs efficacy as bioactive delivery systems. This work provides useful information to design bioactive compound delivery systems for food and pharmaceutical applications.
TBM excavation of São Paulo Metro Line 6 South in heterogeneous ground in urban area
Authors: Comulada Marc , Aguiar Gustavo , Vassallo Crisci Mike , Reig Ramos Maria Isabel
Published: July 2024

The São Paulo Metro is expanding its network in the São Paulo Metropolitan Area inhabited by 21 million people. Metro Line 6 connects the north of the city to the existing metro network further South. The construction of Line 6 currently represents the largest infrastructure project in Latin America, combining the excavation of tunnel boring machine (TBM) and conventional tunnels, cut‐and‐cover stations and a number of deep emergency exit shafts. This paper presents the main features of the TBM tunnel excavated in the South stretch through the Tertiary soils of the São Paulo Basin and through the challenging Embu Complex, which consists of a mixture of fractured rock, saprolite and residual soils. The alignment runs under the dense urban grid of São Paulo under high‐rise buildings and other infrastructure, such as existing Metro lines.
Efficacy of trametinib in a metastatic urothelial carcinoma patient with a BRAF mutation
Authors: Karasawa Hiroyuki , Yasumizu Yota , Kosaka Takeo , Shimoi Tatsunori , Oya Mototsugu
Published: July 2024

Introduction

BRAF mutations in bladder cancer are rare. MEK inhibitors have excellent clinical benefits in the treatment of melanoma.

Case presentation

A 60‐year‐old male was diagnosed with muscle‐invasive bladder cancer and underwent total cystectomy and ileal conduit diversion. Despite 4 cycles of gemcitabine and cisplatin chemotherapy and 3 courses of pembrolizumab, the left obturator lymph node enlarged. Cancer multi‐gene panel testing confirmed the BRAF G469A mutation and trametinib was recommended. Three months after the initiation of trametinib (2 mg, qd), the left obturator lymph node shrank by more than 50%. The disease has remained stable for more than 18 months.

Conclusion

The present case indicates the potential of trametinib to treat mBUC patients with the BRAF G469A mutation in this setting.
Investigation of the relationship between the sense of coherence and the level of depression in mothers of children with autism
Authors: Durankuş Ferit , Erdoğan Fırat , Durankuş Ramazan , Gulek Ayse , Bas Raif Kaan , Albayrak Yakup , Yilmaz Kübra
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder originating from early childhood. Although there are studies investigating the sense of coherence in caregivers of children with ASD, there is not a previous study in our country. In this study, we aimed to examine the relationship between the sense of coherence and depression levels in mothers of children with ASD.

Method

Seventy‐five mothers of children followed up in rehabilitation centers with the diagnosis of ASD were included in this study. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and Sense of Coherence Scale‐13 (SOC‐13) were administered to mothers. Participants were divided into two groups: a depressive group and a control group according to the BDI cut‐off score. SOC‐13 total score and sub‐scores were compared between these groups.

Results

According to the BDI cut‐off score, 45 participants (60%) were included in the depressive group. Total SOC‐13 score and sub‐scores were found to be statistically significantly lower in the depressive group compared with the control group.

Conclusion

Our study is the first study in our country to examine the relationship between the sense of coherence and depression in mothers of children with ASD. The results showed that there was a significant negative correlation between depression scores and sense of coherence. It is predicted that psychological interventions that will improve the sense of coherence of mothers with children with ASD may play an important role in the treatment of depression, thus leading to an increase in the quality of care provided by parents.
Soil hydro‐physical variables and crop residues determinate runoff, soil loss, and glyphosate and AMPA concentration in the aqueous phase under simulated rainfall events
Authors: Sainz Daiana , Behrends Kraemer Filipe , Carfagno Patricia , Eiza Maximiliano , Chagas Celio
Published: July 2024

Soil structural degradation and water erosion processes were observed even in no‐tillage schemes in the Pampas region. Within these conservation systems, agrochemical application per hectare is one of the highest globally. Thus, this entails a serious risk of water contamination. The objectives of this study were to (1) test the hypothesis that the hydrological dynamics and sediment concentration related to surface runoff were conditioned by soil structure regardless of the presence of maize (Zea mays L.) crop residue and (2) assess the incidence of maize crop residue on glyphosate and aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA) concentration in runoff. The soil under study corresponded to Arroyo Dulce Series (Typic Argiudoll silty loam soil). Rain simulations were performed in the laboratory on undisturbed soil samples. Total runoff and infiltration rate were similar between treatments with C(+) and without C(−) maize crop residues (C(+) 1381.40 mL and 14.27 mm h−1, C(−): 1529.70 mL and 21.67 mm h−1). The C(−) treatments showed a higher sediment concentration than C(+) (1.58 and 0.42 g 100 mL−1, respectively). Glyphosate and AMPA average values in runoff were 15.9 and 33.9 µg L−1. High variability of the hydro‐physical properties and occurrence of soil structure, particularly platy ones, were detected. The hydrological variables were conditioned mainly by the occurrence of platy structures regardless of crop residue presence. Glyphosate concentration was increased in the first runoff event by the presence of corn residues, while AMPA concentrations were higher in the second runoff event in both residue treatments. In this study, maize residue on the soil surface protected the soil from sediment detachment but did not change runoff or infiltration. Thus, the implementation of agricultural management practices that promote vegetative residue cover has shown positive results to erosion.
Computed tomography findings of 50 patients diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia: A case series
Authors: Ueda Akihito , Nohara Kanji , Fujii Nami , Nakajima Kazuhiro , Miyauchi Yumiko , Inoue Yutaka
Published: July 2024

The effect of neglecting imaging in aspiration pneumonia diagnosis is not well understood. In this study, the computed tomography images of 50 patients diagnosed with aspiration pneumonia were retrospectively analyzed by three radiologists at a different hospital. Among these cases, 32%–42% were not classified as aspiration pneumonia based on imaging. Thus, imaging features may not have been adequately considered for diagnosing aspiration pneumonia. Although not all patients with aspiration pneumonia can be diagnosed based on imaging, aspiration pneumonia should be considered in the diagnosis as cases that are clearly nonaspiration pneumonia can be misdiagnosed as aspiration pneumonia.
A novel approach to detect glucose concentration using active cavity Whispering Gallery Mode sensor
Authors: Et‐Tijani El Metouy , Poffo Luiz , Velly Christelle , Féron Patrice , Abel‐Tiberini Laetitia
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a new approach to particle detection using an active microresonator operating in the transparency regime. Simulations demonstrate that when particles interact with the microresonator surface, they induce optical losses. To compensate for these losses, the optical gain is amplified to restore the transparency regime. Simulation results show a linear relationship between nanoparticle concentration and the pump power required to compensate for optical losses. By the use of microresonator with a very high quality factor, this approach offers an accurate and sensitive method for detecting nanoparticles, without the need for complex equipment.
Adaptive traits of Planctomycetota bacteria to thrive in macroalgal habitats and establish mutually beneficial relationship with macroalgae
Authors: Gao Xueyan , Xiao Yihua , Wang Ziwei , Zhao Hanshuang , Yue Yufei , Nair Shailesh , Zhang Zenghu , Zhang Yongyu
Published: July 2024

Bacteria and macroalgae share an inseparable relationship, jointly influencing coastal ecosystems. Within macroalgae habitats, Planctomycetota, a group of bacteria notoriously challenging to cultivate, often dominate. However, the mechanisms facilitating their persistence in this environment remain unclear. Here, we successfully isolated a novel Planctomycetota bacterium, Stieleria sp. HD01, from the surface of kelp. We demonstrated that HD01 possesses a robust ability to metabolize fucoidan, which constitutes half of the kelp‐derived organic carbon and exhibits resistance to attack by most microorganisms. Moreover, HD01 can utilize a broad spectrum of other organics, indicating its metabolic versatility and competitive prowess within algal environments. Additionally, HD01 can secrete antagonistic substances against other bacteria, form biofilms, and employ superoxide dismutase and catalase to resist oxidative stress, further consolidating its ecological fitness. Comparative metagenomics analysis suggested that Planctomycetota may have a mutually beneficial relationship with kelp.
Revealing elusive conformations of sucrose from hydrogen bond J‐coupling in H2O: A combined NMR and quantum mechanics study
Authors: Kwon Jeahoo , Reeves Hannah L. , Wang Lee‐Ping , Freedberg Darón I.
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen bonding is a crucial feature of biomolecules, but its characterization in glycans dissolved in aqueous solutions is challenging due to rapid hydrogen exchange between hydroxyl groups and H2O. In principle, the scalar (J) coupling constant can reveal the relative orientation of the atoms in the molecule. In contrast to J‐coupling through H‐bonds reported in proteins and nucleic acids, research on J‐coupling through H‐bonds in glycans dissolved in water is lacking. Here, we use sucrose as a model system for H‐bonding studies; its structure, which consists of glucose (Glc) and fructose (Frc), is well‐studied, and it is readily available. We apply the in‐phase, antiphase‐HSQC‐TOCSY and quantify previously unreported through H‐bond J‐values for Frc–OH1–Glc–OH2 in H2O. While earlier reports of Brown and Levy indicate this H‐bond as having only a single direction, our reported findings indicate the potential presence of two involving these same atoms, namely, G2OH ➔ F1O and F1OH ➔ G2O (where F and G stand for Frc and Glc, respectively). The calculated density functional theory J‐values for the G2OH ➔ F1O agree with the experimental values. Additionally, we detected four other possible H‐bonds in sucrose, which require different phi, psi (ϕ, ψ) torsion angles. The ϕ, ψ values are consistent with previous predictions of du Penhoat et al. and Venable et al. Our results will provide new insights into the molecular structure of sucrose and its interactions with proteins.
Enhanced electromechanical performance of Nafion actuator doped by poly(ethylene glycol)‐grafted graphene oxide
Authors: Ma Li , Guo Xiaowei , Mei Longxiang , Wang Lehui , Gui Yanghai , Guo Dongjie
Published: July 2024

Current ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC) actuators have severe actuation drawbacks (i.e. low force output and poor stability), hampering their applications. To address these issues, poly(ethylene glycol)‐grafted graphene oxide (PEG‐GO) is synthesized and incorporated into a Nafion matrix, thus producing a PEG‐GO hybrid Nafion film with better physiochemical properties for fabricating a high‐performance, low‐cost IPMC actuator. The modification of PEG to GO not only prevents GO agglomeration and sedimentation, but also avoids loss of PEG in water. Driven by a 0.2 Hz, 2.5 V electric field, the hybrid IPMC actuator exhibits superior electromechanical behaviors, i.e. a swing angle of 110.3°, a blocking force of 6.89 mN and a stable working time of 485 s, respectively increasing by 92%, 209% and 294% when compared to a pure Nafion actuator. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Perceptions of medical doctors and patients about imaging for people with low back pain: A qualitative study
Authors: Barbosa Mariana M. , dos Santos Anna Julia M. , Galli Nilva , Vidal Rubens V. C. , Grande Guilherme H. D. , Oliveira Crystian B.
Published: July 2024

Background

Low‐value care is the use of substitutive/ineffective/harmful strategies based on available evidence, and it is considered one of the main contributors to the burden related to low back pain in health care systems. The use of routine imaging for patients with low back pain is the main example of inappropriate care. Therefore, understanding the perceptions of medical doctors and patients from Brazil about this practice may help propose strategies to reduce imaging rates.

Objective

To investigate the perceptions of medical doctors and patients about imaging for the diagnosis of nonspecific low back pain.

Design

A qualitative study using the framework analysis method.

Settings

Primary and secondary care.

Participants

Fifteen patients with low back pain and 15 doctors participated in this study.

Data Collection

Sociodemographic data were collected from all participants, and the interviews were performed using a set of questions created based on the literature.

Main Results

Patients and doctors believe that the main reason for ordering imaging tests is to identify the source of pain, and imaging could be useful for tracking disease progression over time or if there is a lack of improvement after treatment. Patients' expectations and pressures play a role in the decision to order imaging tests, but clinicians believe that education is the preferred strategy to reduce imaging rates.

Conclusion

Identifying the source of pain, tracking the disease progression, and patients' expectations and pressures were the main drivers of imaging requests for low back pain. Educational strategies were suggested to reduce the use of routine imaging.
Effects of Al2O3 Rear Interface Passivation on the Performance of Bifacial Kesterite‐Based Solar Cells with Fluorine‐Doped Tin Dioxide Back Contact
Authors: Sawa Hezekiah B. , Babucci Melike , Keller Jan , Platzer Björkman Charlotte , Mlyuka Nuru R. , Samiji Margaret E.
Published: July 2024

Herein, ultrathin Al2O3 is investigated as a rear interface passivation layer for kesterite solar cells with F:SnO2 (FTO) back contact for potential performance improvement. On the passivation layer, a thin Mo layer is deposited to improve the FTO's ohmicity. Further, NaF is evaporated on the copper zinc tin sulfide (CZTS) precursors to create openings at the passivation layer and achieve Na‐induced benefits in the absorber. The CZTS absorbers deposited directly on the Al2O3‐coated FTO peel off, while those with Mo interlayer do not. For pure sulfide kesterite devices, the Al2O3 layer reduces the short‐circuit current density (JSC), resulting in poor device efficiency. On the other hand, significantly higher JSC is realized for mixed sulfide and selenide kesterite devices with Al2O3 passivation layer, with the current density–voltage curve suggesting a reduced barrier height at the rear interface. As a result, the efficiency is improved from 1.5% for devices without Al2O3 to 4.6% for those with Al2O3. Likewise, improved external quantum efficiency response is observed in the devices with passivation layer for backside and frontside illumination. Therefore, contribution of Al2O3 passivation layer to the performance of kesterite‐based solar cells is evident from the results of this study.
In Situ Sulfonated Mesoporous Polydivinylbenzene as a Solid Acid Catalyzed the Condensation of Phenol and Acetone
Authors: Wei Ning , Wang Qingyin , Guo Li , Wang Danjun , Chen Tong , Wang Gongying
Published: July 2024

Sulfonated mesoporous polydivinylbenzene solid acid was prepared by in situ sulfonation method, and the physical chemical properties of this solid acid was characterized by XRD, BET, FT‐IR, etc. Acid density of sulfonated mesoporous polydivinylbenzene was characterized by acid base titration, and the result showed that the acid density was 1.58 mmol H+/g. The condensation of phenol and acetone was used as a probe reaction to investigate the catalytic performance of sulfonated mesoporous polydivinylbenzene as a solid acid. Results showed that the phenol conversion rate could approach theoretical conversion rate with Bisphenol‐A selectivity of 91 % at 90 °C. More importantly, sulfonated mesoporous polydivinylbenzene had good stability, and after repeated use for five times, the catalytic performance was not significantly reduced.
Micellization Behavior and Thermodynamic Characteristics of Saponin and SDS: The Impact of Silica Nanoparticles for Subsurface Formation Interaction Studies
Authors: Muneer Rizwan , Alimkulov Rustam , Eghtesadi Neda , Ormantayeva Anar , Thanh Pham Tri , Abbas Azza Hashim
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the temperature‐dependent micellization behaviors of saponin and sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) surfactants, which are both important for chemical enhanced oil recovery (CEOR). It also evaluates the effect of silica nanoparticles (SiO2) on these behaviors, given the growing interest in nanoparticle‐enhanced surfactants. The research focuses on the tunable properties of nanoparticle‐surfactant combinations. The structural differences between saponin and SDS were identified using FT‐IR and H‐NMR. The Du Noüy ring method was used to measure surface tension at various concentrations and temperatures (25–75 °C). FTIR analysis showed distinct differences between SDS and Saponin, associated with head group where there is hydroxyl groups in SDS solution. H‐NMR showed higher complexity of Saponin's structure, evidenced by its diverse sugar‐related proton peaks. Both SDS and Saponin reduce surface tension with temperature; SDS is more effective, lowering it to 42.1 mN/m versus 48.5 mN/m for Saponin. With SiO2, tensions drop to 39.2 mN/m for SDS and 45.5 mN/m for Saponin. Both surfactants maintain CMCs under reservoir temperature in the 0.05–0.1 wt % range. Saponin exhibited a more negative ΔG° and consistently negative ΔH°, indicating a thermodynamically favorable exothermic reaction. The novelty of this study lies in its focus on both anionic and nonionic surfactants under simulated reservoir conditions. The study focuses on the role of nanoparticles in enhancing surfactant stability and efficiency by addressing thermodynamic parameters.
Recent Progress in Solketal Synthesis from Glycerol and Acetone
Authors: Wang Lumei , Du Xiao , Zhang Dian , Hu Tiantian , Ren Dezhang , Huo Zhibao
Published: July 2024

The extensive use of biodiesel leads to the excess of glycerol as a by‐product. But as a carbon resource, it has been increasingly used in organic synthesis of high value‐added derivatives in recent years. Among them, solketal is one of the most important derivatives of glycerol, which is generated by the reaction of glycerol and acetone. Based on a large number of relevant literatures, this paper systematically summarized the relevant researches in recent ten years. We systematically summary the latest research progress on the synthesis of solketal by glycerol and acetone. We have focused on a systematic study of four different reaction mechanisms for the ketonation reaction of glycerol and acetone. And the types of catalysts were classified into two categories, homogeneous catalysts and non‐homogeneous catalysts, and the non‐homogeneous catalysts were further classified in more details for the study. This review provides a more comprehensive reference for the ketal reaction of glycerol and acetone, and develops some new ideas for the transformation.
Facile Preparation of MXene Decorated PANI/Lignosulfonate Nanocomposite Film Electrodes for Electrochemical Supercapacitors
Authors: Wang Mingkun , Xie Hangming , He Zhiwei
Published: July 2024

MXenes are a large family of two‐dimensional transition‐metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides with large surface area and metal conductivity. They have not been widely used as electrodes in the field of supercapacitors because of their low specific capacity, poor chemical stability, and tendency towards self‐stacking. Herein, a three‐component nanocomposite film electrode has been successfully achieved, consisting of MXene nanosheets, polyaniline (PANI), and lignosulfonate (LGS). The PANI‐LGS nanocomposite was prepared through the oxidative polymerization of PANI in the presence of LGS, and then MXene decorated PANI/LGS (labeled as MPL) nanocomposite films were facilely self‐assembled via a vacuum‐assisted filtration by using the dispersion. Compared with pure PANI and PANI‐LGS, the MPL nanocomposite film electrode possesses better conductivity, showing a high specific capacitance of 559 F/g at a scan rate of 5 mV/s and a capacity retention rate of 92.2 % after 1000 cycles at a current density of 10 A/g. This study demonstrates that the doping of LGS and MXene can significantly improve the electrochemical performance of PANI‐based composite materials. Thus, the convenient preparation and excellent electrochemical performance of MPL show great potentials in the application of high‐performance electrodes for supercapacitors.
Synthesis of Novel 6‐(2‐Thienyl)‐2,2′‐Bipyridine Ligands Using “1,2,4‐Triazine” Methodology: an Unexpected Demethylation During the Aza‐Diels‐Alder Reaction with 2,5‐Norbornadiene
Authors: Shtaitz Yaroslav K. , Ladin Evgeny D. , Valieva Maria I. , Kopchuk Dmitry S. , Nikonov Igor L. , Zyryanov Grigory V. , Khalymbadzha Igor A. , Fatykhov Ramil F. , Sharutin Vladimir V.
Published: July 2024

New 2‐(di)methoxythienyl substituted ligands of the 2,2′‐bipyridine series containing various aromatic substituents at the C3 position were obtained in yields of up to 90 %. A “1,2,4‐triazine” methodology involving an SNH reaction in 1,2,4‐triazine followed by an aza‐Diels‐Alder reaction with 2,5‐norbornadiene was used to synthesize the target compounds. When the Diels‐Alder reaction was carried out in an autoclave, an unexpected demethylation reaction was observed, leading to the formation of oxo‐thienyl substituted products. A mechanism for the reaction that occurred has been proposed on the basis of identified byproducts. Preliminary studies on the photophysical and coordination properties of the obtained compounds were also carried out. In particular, the possibility of obtaining a platinum(II) complex with the demethylation product was demonstrated.
Additive‐Controlled Divergent [4+2] Cycloaddition and 1,4‐Michael Addition Reaction of Benzofuran‐Derived Azadienes with Enamides: Access to Decahydrobenzofuro[3,2‐b]quinolines
Authors: Tian Yuqi , Shi Ruijie , Gao Limei , Zheng Yongsheng
Published: July 2024

We describe herein the additive‐controlled divergent [4+2] cycloaddition and 1,4‐Michael addition reaction of benzofuran‐derived azadienes (BDAs) with enamides. An unprecedented [4+2] cycloaddition reaction of BDAs and enamide compounds was developed in the presence of 4 Å MS, providing a variety of structurally complex decahydrobenzofuro[3,2‐b]quinolines (13 examples) in moderate to excellent yields (59–98 % yields) with single diastereoisomer obtained. While employing MgSO4 as desiccant, the chemoselectivity was switched to the 1,4‐addition reactions, leading to a wide range of highly functionalized hybrids of benzofurans and enamide compounds (25 examples) in 25–94 % yields under mild conditions.
Azaspiroketal as Novel Auxochrome for Enhancing the Fluorescence Brightness and Solubility of Naphthalimide and Nitrobenzoxadiazole Dyes
Authors: Indurthi Harish K. , Goswami Pooja , Das Samarpita , Saha Pallavi , Koch Biplob , Sharma Deepak K.
Published: July 2024

The majority of fluorescence imaging techniques make considerable use of fluorescent dyes. Nevertheless, many structural modification techniques currently in use could not adjust the fluorophores′ properties (such as brightness, photostability, water solubility, and permeability). Herein, we report azaspiroketal‐based auxochrome on naphthalimide and nitrobenzoxadiazole dyes. Their photophysical parameters revealed higher brightness and solubility than their azetidine counterparts in aqueous solution. Computational experiments were performed to study the electronic effect of azetidine and azaspiroketal on both dyes. Cytotoxicity assay indicated that azaspiroketal‐based fluorophores are safe to use for their biological application. The photobleaching studies and successful application of new dyes in bioimaging were demonstrated in MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines.
Synthesis of Copper Oxide Nanoparticles Using Leaf Extracts of Dillenia Indica and Mikania Micrantha: Investigation of their Potential as Photocatalysts and Antibacterial Agents
Authors: Sarifujjaman Md. , Pal Protap Kumar , Saha Prianka , Rahman S. M. Mahbubur , Islam Md. Emdadul , Rahman Md. Mahbubor , Habib Md. Ahsan , Mahiuddin Md.
Published: July 2024

The fields of biomedicine and catalysis have both shown a great deal of interest in copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs). Green synthesis methods are being frequently employed to develop highly active CuONPs. This research investigates the potential photocatalytic and antibacterial applications of two CuONPs that were synthesized utilizing extracts from Dillenia indica (D‐CuONPs) and Mikania micrantha (M‐CuONPs) leaves. Analysis using electron microscopy revealed that CuONPs are uniformly spherical and average size around 15 nm. The development of single‐phase CuONPs with a monoclinic structure is shown by X‐ray diffraction studies. The FTIR peaks at 695 cm−1 and 860 cm−1 represent a stretching of Cu−O, signifying the formation of CuO nanostructure. The EDX profiles stated that the CuONPs are correlated with compliantly intensified Cu and O signals. Under solar irradiation, around 90 % of congo red (CR) dye was degraded by both CuONPs in 120 min, with the rate constants of 0.0187 and 0.0174 min−1, respectively. Furthermore, CuONPs have excellent antibacterial activity against bacteria belonging to both Gram classes. Overall, CuONPs hold great potential for inhibiting the growth of pathogenic bacteria and for degrading organic dyes in the presence of sunlight. As such, they can be manufactured on a large scale using plant sources.