bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antimicrobial Activities of the Endophytic Fungus, Fusarium equiseti, Isolated from The leaves of Ocimum gratissimum
Authors: Adione Nnamdi Markben , Onyeka Ifeanyi Peter , Abba Chika Christiana. , Okoye Nkeoma Nkasi , Eze Peter Maduabuchi , Umeokoli Blessing Ogechukwu. , Anyanwu OgechI Ozioma. , Okoye Festus Basden Chiedu
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Fungal endophytes of medicinal plants origin are gaining increasing interest as sources of novel bioactive agents with therapeutic capacity. This study was designed to identify and evaluate secondary metabolites isolated from Fusarium equiseti; an endophytic fungus isolated from leaves of Ocimum gratissimum for their antimicrobial potentials.

Methods: The isolation and molecular identification of the endophytic fungus, as well as fermentation, and extraction of secondary metabolites were carried out following standard laboratory procedures. The crude extract was partially purified by partitioning into different fractions using column chromatographic techniques and the fractions were tested for antimicrobial activity. The phytoconstituents in the bioactive fractions were detected by dereplication using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography linked with Diode Array Detection (HPLC-DAD).

Results:  Our findings showed that fraction 4 (DCM/ Methanol fraction 95:5) exhibited moderate to strong inhibition against the test micro-organisms namely, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans with MIC values in the range of 0.03 to 1 mg/mL but had no inhibition against Aspergillus niger and Salmonella typhi. The compounds detected in the HPLC assay include Phomoxanthone A, Scalarolide, equisetin, epi-equisetin an episomer of equisetin, Naamine A, Carbonarone A, destruxin B, cytosporin G, and WLIP (β-hydroxydecanoyl-Leu1-D Glu-De-Thr-Dval-DLeu3 DSer-Leu-Dser-Ile). These compounds have been reported to possess antimicrobial activity.

Conclusion: The detection of these metabolites further confirms the potential of the endophytic fungus, Fusarium equiseti isolated from leaves of Ocimum gratissimum as a potential source of bioactive molecules for treatment of infectious diseases.
Endoscopic Assisted Supraorbital Approach for Tumors of Anterior and Middle Skull Base
Authors: E. Shamia Mohamed , M. Abdelmonem Ahmed , Awad Tariq , E. Negm Nader , M. Kamal Medhat
Published: August 2022

Background Data: The supraorbital eyebrow approach is a minimally invasive keyhole technique that offers wide access to the anterior skull base and parasellar region using the subfrontal corridor, with assistances of neuroendoscopy The approach through the eyebrow permits access to a number of lesions in the subfrontal corridor with minimal brain retraction and a much smaller area of potential injury of main structures.

Study Design: This study is a follow up study.

Objective: To evaluate the role of supraorbital endoscopic approach for tumors of anterior and middle skull base.

Patients and Methods: All the operations were performed at Suez Canal University hospitals, in about 24 months, the first 30 patients having tumors of anterior and middle skull base fulfilling the inclusion criteria were included in this prospective study.

Results: Endoscopy can play an important role in improving visualization through the keyhole corridor. With the use of neuroendoscopy, the reach of this approach may be extended even further to include the pituitary fossa, the top third of the clivus, the interpeduncular cistern, the anterior third ventricle, and the medial and anterior temporal lobe and middle fossa.The major advantage of the supraorbital over the endonasal route is a simplified skull base closure and reduced risk of postoperative CSF leak. It is a valuable approach for selected patients. Neuromonitoring may further increase surgical safety.

Conclusion: The approach through the eyebrow permits access to a number of lesions in the subfrontal corridor With the use of the assisstence of neuroendoscopy, with minimal brain retraction and a much smaller area of potential injury of anatomical structures.
PLANEJAMENTO URBANO E SANEAMENTO BÁSICO: ANÁLISE SOBRE A IMPLEMENTAÇÃO DAS DIRETRIZES DE SANEAMENTO BÁSICO ESTABELECIDAS NO PDDU 2016 DE SALVADOR
Authors: Magalhães Marcela de Almeida Souza , Moraes Luiz Roberto Santos
Published: August 2022

Ao longo dos anos, o planejamento urbano no Brasil gerou planos e propostas que, mesmo visando a melhoria de vida da população, deixou à margem parcelas da sociedade. Do urbanismo sanitarista ao empreendedorismo urbano, a estrutura social e o modelo econômico das cidades vem resultando num desenvolvimento heterogêneo, excludente e segregador. O acesso à serviços públicos de qualidade representa uma frente de luta do direito à cidade, de tal modo que a privação de serviços públicos de saneamento básico, deve ser combatida também em termos de gestão e não somente a prestação de serviços em si. Embora muito se tenha avançado no âmbito do saneamento básico, Salvador configura-se como uma cidade desigual em diversos aspectos, inclusive em relação ao acesso aos serviços públicos de saneamento básico. Esse trabalho tem como objetivo analisar a implementação das diretrizes de saneamento básico sob a ótica do planejamento urbano, tendo o Plano Diretor de Desenvolvimento Urbano-PDDU 2016 de Salvador como referência. A pesquisa se dividiu em três etapas, consistindo a primeira na revisão da legislação específica e pesquisa documental. A segunda etapa contemplou a análise do PDDU 2016 de Salvador, Lei n. 9.069/2016, quanto às diretrizes estabelecidas para o saneamento básico a serem investigadas em relação à sua implementação, comparando com o que já foi implementado. Por fim, na terceira etapa foi realizado uma série de entrevistas semiestruturadas com representantes das instituições responsáveis pela gestão do saneamento básico em Salvador. Como resultado, a gestão do saneamento básico em Salvador encontra-se fragmentada e pouco articulada, tanto em relação aos prestadores, entes e órgãos quanto aos próprios componentes do saneamento básico. Consequentemente, a gestão municipal encontra dificuldade em colocar em prática princípios fundamentais como equidade, universalização e intersetorialidade na política pública de saneamento básico do Município.
Umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes alleviate collagen‐induced arthritis by balancing the population of Th17 and regulatory T cells
Authors: Fu Yanxia , Li Jun , Zhang Ziyu , Ren Fangli , Wang Yinyin , Jia Huihui , Liu Yihe , Chang Zhijie
Published: August 2022

Exosomes released by mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are thought to function as extensions of the MSCs. However, it remains unclear whether exosomes derived from human umbilical cord MSCs (HUMSCs) possess immunoregulatory functions in rheumatoid arthritis. We report that when mice with collagen‐induced arthritis were injected with exosomes derived from HUMSC (HUMSC‐Exo), their paws became less swollen, and they had lower serum pro‐inflammatory cytokine and anti‐collagen IgG levels, and decreased synovial hyperplasia. The HUMSC‐Exo appeared to restore the balance between Th17 and Treg cells, and this effect was accompanied by reduced IL‐17 and enhanced TGF‐β and IL‐10 levels. These findings suggest that HUMSC‐Exo function as important regulator of the balance between Th1/Th17 and Treg cells during immune and inflammatory responses.
From the ground up: Patterns and perceptions of herbaceous diversity in organic coffee agroecosystems
Authors: Archibald Sarah , Allinne Clementine , Cerdán Carlos R. , Isaac Marney E.
Published: August 2022

Smallholder farms that transition to organic and biodiverse production are increasingly recognized as strongholds of agrobiodiversity, with emerging work identifying important outcomes such as enhancing crop portfolios, mitigating extreme climate events and contributing to farmer well‐being. Yet the emergent herbaceous communities in these organic systems remain understudied, with the functional diversity and management of this stratum relatively unknown.

This study identifies the taxonomic and functional diversity of the herbaceous community in organic coffee agroforestry systems, and describes the extent of this diversity with farm, and farmer, attributes. We measured leaf‐level functional traits (e.g. specific leaf area) of the herbaceous community to derive functional diversity indices and collected localized environmental conditions on 15 organic coffee farms in Central Valley, Costa Rica. We also conducted semi‐structured interviews with nine farmers to construct mental models on herbaceous community management using a cognitive mapping approach.

In total, 38 species from 20 taxonomic families were present in these organic coffee systems. The herbaceous communities were functionally diverse; however, functional evenness increased with canopy openness, suggesting that farms adopting agroforestry tend to have a more functionally diverse herbaceous stratum.

Farmer perception of plant traits in the herbaceous community was differentiated into competitive (weeds) or neutral/positive effects. These perceptions aligned with well‐established functional trait trade‐offs. The mental models representing farmer decision‐making processes were highly variable, with a nearly 30% increase in cognitive map density from the simplest map to the most complex; this complexity in mental models was a key explanatory variable in the level of functional diversity of the herbaceous community.

Organic management practices that support agroforestry practices also, in turn, promote a functionally diverse herbaceous stratum. We show that functional trait syndromes in these herbaceous communities in agroforestry systems are linked with farmer perceptions of traits, and that highly interconnected farm decision‐making is related to greater functional diversity in the herbaceous community. Understanding pathways of farmer decision‐making on managing this herbaceous community can appropriately situate on‐farm practice and policy for the transition to organic production, and inform emerging agri‐environmental programs.
Real‐time analysis and display of quantitative measures to track and improve clinical workflow
Authors: Munbodh Reshma , Roth Toni M. , Leonard Kara L. , Court Robert C. , Shukla Utkarsh , Andrea Sarah , Gray Marissa , Leichtman Gregg , Klein Eric E.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Radiotherapy treatment planning is a complex process with multiple, dependent steps involving an interdisciplinary patient care team. Effective communication and real‐time tracking of resources and care path activities are key for clinical efficiency and patient safety.

Materials and Methods

We designed and implemented a secure, interactive web‐based dashboard for patient care path, clinical workflow, and resource utilization management. The dashboard enables visualization of resource utilization and tracks progress in a patient's care path from the time of acquisition of the planning CT to the time of treatment in real‐time. It integrates with the departmental electronic medical records (EMR) system without the creation and maintenance of a separate database or duplication of work by clinical staff. Performance measures of workflow were calculated.

Results

The dashboard implements a standardized clinical workflow and dynamically consolidates real‐time information queried from multiple tables in the EMR database over the following views: (1) CT Sims summarizes patient appointment information on the CT simulator and patient load; (2) Linac Sims summarizes patient appointment times, setup history, and notes, and patient load; (3) Task Status lists the clinical tasks associated with a treatment plan, their due date, status and ownership, and patient appointment details; (4) Documents provides the status of all documents in the patients' charts; and (5) Diagnoses and Interventions summarizes prescription information, imaging instructions and whether the plan was approved for treatment. Real‐time assessment and quantification of progress and delays in a patient's treatment start were achieved.

Conclusions

This study indicates it is feasible to develop and implement a dashboard, tailored to the needs of an interdisciplinary team, which derives and integrates information from the EMR database for real‐time analysis and display of resource utilization and clinical workflow in radiation oncology. The framework developed facilitates informed, data‐driven decisions on clinical workflow management as we seek to optimize clinical efficiency and patient safety.
Biomechanically‐Adapted Immunohydrogels Reconstructing Myelin Sheath for Peripheral Nerve Regeneration
Authors: Wang Yifan , Yan Zhiwen , Liu Wenjun , Liu Chunlin , Xu Nan , Wu Yixian , Sun Fengbo , Wang Xiumei , Qian Yun , Jiang Le , Sun Xiaodan
Published: August 2022

Myelin sheath reconstruction plays an important role in peripheral nerve regeneration. But the hindered reconstruction of myelin sheath, due to the inadequate repair phenotypes of macrophages and Schwann cells after peripheral nerve injury, often causes poor functional nerve recovery. Here, biomechanically‐adapted immunohydrogels are prepared as the FK506‐loaded platforms and nerve tissue engineering scaffolds to reconstruct myelin sheath for peripheral nerve regeneration. By immunofluorescent staining, an increase in the proportion of F4/80+ markers reveals that the biomechanically‐adapted scaffolds facilitate recruitment of macrophages. Furthermore, the high Interleukin 10 (IL‐10) mRNA expression level suggests the anti‐inflammation learning effects of FK506 in vitro, which is further confirmed by a high CD206/TNF‐α ratio in the FK506 Gel group in vivo. The immune learning effects are positively related to the increase in compactness and thickness of myelin sheath, indicating the synergy of structural reconstruction of myelin sheath and M2 phenotype polarization of macrophages. All these data indicate that the biomechanically‐adapted immunohydrogels enhance recruitment of macrophages, educate M2 polarization of macrophages and promote a neuroprotective environment, which in consequence reconstructs myelin sheath for peripheral nerve regeneration.
Copper‐Catalyzed Acylhalogenation of 3‐Methylanthranils with Acid Halides: Synthesis of N‐(2‐(2‐Haloyl)phenyl)amides
Authors: Liang Baihui , Wen Tingting , Chen Guanrui , Cai Zechun , Xu Jucai , Chen Xiuwen , Zhu Zhongzhi
Published: August 2022

A copper‐catalyzed acylhalogenation reaction of 3‐methylanthranils with acid halides, which utilizes the acyl halide as both the acylating and halogenating source, is described. This process involves N−O/C−H/C−X bond cleavages and C−N/C−X bond formations to furnish N‐(2‐(2‐haloyl)phenyl)amides. Furthermore, this difunctional conversion using the N−O bond and oxygen as oxidants displays good tolerance for different functional groups.

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One Pot Synthesis of 1,2‐Disubstituted Ethanones by Base‐Mediated Reductive Homocoupling of Aldehydes
Authors: Zhang Guohui , Liang Qianqian , Yang Wei , Jiang Shaohua , Wang Zhiping , Zhang Chunyan , Zhang Guoying
Published: August 2022

Reductive homocoupling transformations mediated by bases and TMSCN have been used as a strategy for synthesis of 1,2‐disubstituted ethanones. This protocol provides a method for synthesizing functionalized ethanones from aldehydes in one pot without transition metals.

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Catalyst‐Free, One‐Pot, Three‐Component Synthesis of 3‐Arylsulfonylated Thioflavones
Authors: Bhat Vighneshwar Shridhar , Lee Anna
Published: August 2022

A one‐pot, three‐component synthesis of 3‐arylsulfonylated thioflavones has been developed. The reactions were carried out without using any catalysts or additives. The desired products were obtained through intramolecular radical cyclization. This process provides an alternative route for the synthesis of thioflavone derivatives, which have been found in various bioactive compounds.

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Property Regulation Principle in Mn‐Doped BF–BT Ceramics: Competitive Control of Domain Switching By Defect Dipoles and Domain Configuration
Authors: Li Bing , Li Chongyang , Zheng Ting , Wu Jiagang
Published: August 2022

Mn‐doping is reported to be an effective strategy to obtain better electrical property in bismuth ferrite‐barium titanate (BF‐BT)‐based ceramics, while the property regulation principle and its potential physical mechanism is still poorly understood. For disclose the veil of Mn‐doping enhancing properties, the typical material system BF‐BT–xMnO2mol% is designed and the effects of Mn‐doping on multilevel structures and external fields stimulated electrical properties are deeply investigated. Mn‐doping induced structure disorder and defect dipoles lead to the formation of nanodomain and the variation of local structure, contributing to intrinsic enhancement of polarization. Especially, electrical properties under different electric and temperature fields reveal that there is a competitive control of domain switching by defects and domain configuration, which is also verified by domain writing technology and switching spectroscopy piezore‐sponse force microscopy. That is, the defect dipoles have pinning effect on domain to hinder domain switching, leading to smaller polarization and indistinctive electrostrain at low fields. While the nanodomain reduces intrinsic coercive field and promotes domain switching, generating much larger polarization and electrostrain at high fields. lt is believed the decoding of domain switching behavior controlled by defect and domain can provide a paradigm to understand the property evolution in chemically modified BF‐BT.
Optical Vortices with A Quadratic Azimuthal Phase Dependence
Authors: Ikonnikov Denis A. , Kotlyar Victor V. , Kovalev Alexey A. , Vyunishev Andrey M.
Published: August 2022

The light diffraction on fork‐shaped binary phase holograms (BPHs) with quadratic azimuthal phase term is considered. The distribution of intensity and phase, including positions of singularities and their number on the value of the quadratic term is revealed and analyzed. A simple analytical expression for the total topological charge (TC) of optical vortices (OVs) is derived for arbitrary power of azimuthal phase dependence. In order to visualize the phase distributions and phase singularities, interference measurements are carried out. The results of analytical and numerical calculations are confirmed by experimental data. These results may provide new possibilities for optical trapping and manipulation.
Highly Strained Bi‐MOF on Bismuth Oxyhalide Support with Tailored Intermediate Adsorption/Desorption Capability for Robust CO2 Photoreduction
Authors: Yue Xiaoyang , Cheng Lei , Li Fang , Fan Jiajie , Xiang Quanjun
Published: August 2022

Herein, using as‐designed surface‐mounted Bismuth‐based metal‐organic framework (Bi‐MOF) on two‐dimensional BiOBr support, as an operable platform for site‐specific strain engineering to tailor the intermediate adsorption/desorption capability in CO2 photocatalytic conversion is proposed. Giant compressive strain up to 7.85 % is successfully induced on the surface‐mounted Bi‐MOF revealed by HRTEM images and geometric phase analysis as well as in situ Raman characterization, which largely downshifts the p band center of Bi nodes and intensifies their unsaturated state. In‐depth explorations are put onto p‐p (Bi 6p and CO2/CO 2p) orbital hybridization. Taking the adsorption process as an example, the 1π and 7σ frontier molecule orbitals of CO2 2p for both the strain‐free and strained models shift downwards the Fermi level, indicative of fast adsorption of CO2. Meanwhile, strain engineering further induces new non‐degenerate orbital overlapping near 1π and intensified overlapping of 7σ orbitals, stimulating the fast activation of absorbed CO2 molecules.
Luminescence Lifetime Imaging Based on Lanthanide Nanoparticles
Authors: Zhu Xinyan , Wang Xiaohan , Zhang Hongxin , Zhang Fan
Published: August 2022

Luminescence lifetime imaging has exhibited significant advantages over traditional optical imaging in terms of precise quantification detection because of the intrinsic stability of luminescence lifetimes. Recently, great emphasis has been put on the exploration of lanthanide‐doped nanoparticles (LnNPs) with long‐lived luminescence. The long luminescence lifetime of LnNPs not only makes it easier to filter out background signals during imaging, but also provides a wide range of tunable lifetime. Here, we introduce the luminescence mechanisms of LnNPs, the key strategies for luminescence lifetime modulation, data acquisition methods, and several cutting‐edge applications in lifetime imaging systems. Then we describe several prospects to inspire efforts for improving technologies and extending applications of luminescence lifetime imaging.
ppm Pd‐Containing Nanoparticles as Catalysts for Negishi Couplings … in Water
Authors: Hu Yuting , Wong Madison J. , Lipshutz Bruce H.
Published: August 2022

New technology is reported that enables Negishi couplings to be run under sustainable, far greener conditions. Thus, ppm Pd‐containing nanoparticles (NPs) have been developed that catalyze couplings in recyclable water under very mild conditions. These heterogeneous reactions involve loadings of Pd of typically only 2500 ppm (0.25 mol %). Highly functionalized aromatic and heteroaromatic bromides readily participate, including examples taken from the Merck Informer Library indicative of the functional group tolerance associated with these couplings. Direct comparisons with existing literature routes are made. Very low residual levels of Pd in newly formed products are to be expected, as determined by ICP‐MS. The reagent involved has been extensively characterized via DLS, TEM, cryo‐TEM, and EDX measurements.
Highly Efficient Near‐Infrared Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Emitters in Non‐Doped Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Zhao Mengyu , Li Mengke , Li Wei , Du Songyu , Chen Zhenyu , Luo Ming , Qiu Yi , Lu Xumin , Yang Shengyi , Wang Zhichuan , Zhang Jiashen , Su Shi‐Jian , Ge Ziyi
Published: August 2022

Constructing organic near‐infrared (NIR) luminescent materials to confront the formidable barrier of “energy gap law” remains challenging. Herein, two NIR thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) molecules named T‐β‐IQD and TIQD were developed by connectingN,N‐diphenylnaphthalen‐2‐amine and triphenylamine with a novel electron withdrawing unit 6‐(4‐(tert‐butyl)phenyl)‐6H‐indolo[2,3‐b]quinoxaline‐2,3‐dicarbonitrile. It is confirmed NIR‐TADF emitters concurrent with aggregation‐induced emission effect, J‐aggregate with intra‐ and intermolecular CN⋅⋅⋅H−C and C−H⋅⋅⋅π interactions, and large center‐to‐center distance in solid states can boost the emissive efficiencies both in thin films and non‐doped organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). Consequently, the T‐β‐IQD‐based non‐doped NIR‐OLED achieved the maximum external quantum efficiency (EQEmax) of 9.44 % with emission peak at 711 nm, which is one of the highest efficiencies reported to date for non‐doped NIR‐OLEDs.
Metal Nanoparticles on Lipophilic Nanographenes
Authors: Takahashi Shusaku , Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: August 2022

Utilization of graphitic domains on nanographenes (NGs) for anchoring metal nanoparticles (NPs) can open the door for their applications in catalysis. Reported examples employ hydrophilic graphene oxides as substrates, making it difficult to coexist with organic substrates in organic solvents. The title NGs are metal NP‐doped lipophilic NGs (M‐NG1). Various metal cations form NPs with a diameter of a few to tens of nanometers on the basal plane. Owing to the lipophilic nature of NG1, M‐NG1 is prepared by the reduction of the basal plane with sodium in THF followed by the addition of metal salts. Au‐NPs on NG1 allow anchoring an organic thiol carrying an anthracene fluorophore, which is a proof of concept of composite materials utilizing the surface of NGs. The assessment of the catalytic function of Pd‐NG1 reveals that chlorobenzene and bromobenzene yield a coupling product, and fluorobenzene also undergoes the reactions, demonstrating the catalytic function of Pd‐NG1.
Transition‐Metal‐Free Barium Hydride Mediates Dinitrogen Fixation and Ammonia Synthesis
Authors: Guan Yeqin , Liu Chuangwei , Wang Qianru , Gao Wenbo , Hansen Heine Anton , Guo Jianping , Vegge Tejs , Chen Ping
Published: August 2022

Transition‐metal‐mediated dinitrogen fixation has been intensively investigated. The employment of main group elements for this vital reaction has recently sparked interest because of new dinitrogen reaction chemistry. We report ammonia synthesis via a chemical looping process mediated by a transition‐metal‐free barium hydride (BaH2). Experimental and computational studies reveal that the introduction of hydrogen vacancies is essential for creating multiple coordinatively unsaturated Ba sites for N2 activation. The adjacent lattice hydridic hydrogen (H−) then undergoes both reductive elimination and reductive protonation to convert N2 to NHx. The ammonia production rate supports this hydride‐vacancy mechanism via a chemical looping route that far exceeds that of a catalytic process. The BaH2‐mediated chemical looping process has prospects in future technologies for ammonia synthesis using transition‐metal‐free materials.
Transmembrane Shuttling of Photosynthetically Produced Electrons to Propel Extracellular Biocatalytic Redox Reactions in a Modular Fashion
Authors: Jurkaš Valentina , Weissensteiner Florian , De Santis Piera , Vrabl Stephan , Sorgenfrei Frieda A. , Bierbaumer Sarah , Kara Selin , Kourist Robert , Wangikar Pramod P. , Winkler Christoph K. , Kroutil Wolfgang
Published: August 2022

Many biocatalytic redox reactions depend on the cofactor NAD(P)H, which may be provided by dedicated recycling systems. Exploiting light and water for NADPH‐regeneration as it is performed, e.g. by cyanobacteria, is conceptually very appealing due to its high atom economy. However, the current use of cyanobacteria is limited, e.g. by challenging and time‐consuming heterologous enzyme expression in cyanobacteria as well as limitations of substrate or product transport through the cell wall. Here we establish a transmembrane electron shuttling system propelled by the cyanobacterial photosynthesis to drive extracellular NAD(P)H‐dependent redox reactions. The modular photo‐electron shuttling (MPS) overcomes the need for cloning and problems associated with enzyme‐ or substrate‐toxicity and substrate uptake. The MPS was demonstrated on four classes of enzymes with 19 enzymes and various types of substrates, reaching conversions of up to 99 % and giving products with >99 % optical purity.
Physical and Chemical Cues at the Nano–Bio Interface for Immunomodulation
Authors: Wang Feng‐Yuan , Qiu Tianze , Ling Yun , Yang Yannan , Zhou Yaming
Published: August 2022

Immunomodulation has made remarkable progress in fighting infectious disease and cancer. Conventionally, immunomodulation largely relies on chemical/biochemical agents, which, unfortunately, suffer from sever off‐target adverse effects. Recent insights into nano–bio interactions suggest that nanomaterials can directly participate in immunomodulation. A range of physical and chemical cues at the nano–bio interface have been harnessed to regulate diverse immuno‐signaling for disease control and treatment. In this Minireview, we summarize recent studies on the physical and chemical cues enabled by intrinsic nanomaterials to trigger immunological signaling. First, we discuss physical cues mediated by surface topography, hydrophobicity, charge, and heat at the nano–bio interface for immunomodulation. Then, various nanomaterials enabled chemical cues, such as metal species and oxidative species are outlined. Finally, our perspectives on challenges and possible future directions are provided.
Enhancing physicochemical, mechanical, and bioactive performances of monetite nanoparticles reinforced chitosan‐PEO electrospun scaffold for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Singh Yogendra Pratap , Mishra Balaram , Gupta Mukesh Kumar , Mishra Narayan Chandra , Dasgupta Sudip
Published: August 2022

In the current work, monetite (DCPA) nanoparticles incorporated chitosan (CH)‐based composite was prepared using by electrospinning technique. A smooth and defect‐free fibrous matrix with an average fiber diameter in the range between 311 ± 13 to 380 ± 28 nm was obtained for 5 wt% (CH‐DCPA5) and 7 wt% DCPA (CH‐DCPA7) containing electrospun scaffolds. The results indicated that the addition of 7 wt% DCPA nanoparticles to chitosan caused an increase in the tensile strength of scaffolds from 6.2 to 12.34 MPa. A slow degradation rate (~37% in 28 days) indicates its suitability for bone tissue regeneration. A study on the biomineralization capability of the electrospun scaffolds after their immersion in simulated body fluid in vitro revealed that the addition of DCPA strongly promoted the deposition of the apatite layer onto electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds. The culture of MG‐63 osteoblast cells on the scaffolds demonstrated that the incorporation of DCPA nanoparticles into the chitosan polymeric matrix helped in the adhesion, spreading, and migration of cells. CH‐DCPA5 and CH‐DCPA7 scaffolds exhibited a higher capacity to proliferate osteoblast cell lines as compared to pure CH scaffold as confirmed by MTT assay and qualitative cell viability analysis from fluorescence microscopy. Immunocytochemistry analysis for osteocalcin expression revealed a higher capacity of DCPA‐containing scaffolds to differentiate MG‐63 cells into bone lineage as compared to pure chitosan scaffolds. DCPA incorporation into chitosan also resulted in MG‐63 cultured on to it to elicit higher alkaline phosphatase activity suggesting the highest capacity of CH‐DCPA7 to differentiate MG 63 cell line among all the scaffolds studied here. The results indicated superior osteogenic properties of DCPA nanoparticle reinforced chitosan matrix for use in BTE in the form of nanofibrous scaffolds.
Advance in barnacle cement with high underwater adhesion
Authors: Xu Zhenzhen , Liu Zhongcheng , Zhang Chao , Xu Donggang
Published: August 2022

Adhesives play an important role in the areas of biomedicine and engineering manufacture. Barnacle cement is a polyprotein complex secreted by barnacle, which can bind with various kinds of underwater substances; therefore, becoming a hotspot of new bionic adhesive materials because of its superior adhesion. The low solubility and complicated secretion process of barnacle cement hinder current understanding of its components, physicochemical properties, synthetic process, and so forth. This review mainly summarizes the latest research advances and applicable potentials of barnacle cement characterized by rapid adhesion, uneasy degradation, polymerized curing in an underwater environment, and so forth, and provides reference for both research and development of bioinspired synthetic wet adhesives.
Resolving Graphite‐Electrolyte Interphase of Lithium‐Ion Batteries using Air‐Tight Ambient Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Sahraeian Taghi , Zheng Jingfeng , Lalisse Remy F. , Hadad Christopher M. , Wu Yiying , Badu‐Tawiah Abraham K.
Published: August 2022

The formation of a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) at graphite electrode is necessary for lithium‐ion batteries (LIB) to prevent excessive degradation of electrolytes. Until now, the exact organic composition of SEI has not been decisively determined with lithium ethylene mono‐carbonate (LEMC) being one of the debated components. An air‐tight ambient mass spectrometry (MS) platform is developed to directly characterize the air‐sensitive organic components present in SEI. Ionization occurs via a solvent‐free field‐induced process at atmospheric pressure. Our experimental data, based on tandem MS analysis, revealed LEMC to be the major organic component in SEI. This result resolves a long‐standing mystery surrounding the composition of native SEI in LIB, where no trace of the other debated compound, lithium ethylene dicarbonate, was detected. The energetics of fragmentation of LEMC and the corresponding stabilities of various ionic species detected during the air‐tight ambient MS analysis were calculated using density functional theory (DFT). Our findings confirmed favorable protonation energies and suggested the molecular structures for many of the detected species. Solvent (i. e., ethylene carbonate)‐induced stabilization effects observed during the ionization process were also confirmed by DFT. The reported study encourages the routine use of ambient mass spectrometry to characterize both anodic and cathodic electrodes of all battery types as well as to study other air‐sensitive materials in their native state.
Open or Closed? Elucidating the Correlation between Micropore Nature and Sodium Storage Mechanisms in Hard Carbon
Authors: Surendran Vishnu , Hema Radhika Krishna , Hassan Muhammed Shafeek Oliyantakath , Vijayan Vinesh , Shaijumon Manikoth M.
Published: August 2022

The sodium storage mechanism related to a high voltage slope region and a low voltage plateau region observed commonly in hard carbon (HC) is still a topic of debate. The difference in physicochemical properties of controllably synthesized carbon reflects the ambiguity in explaining their charge storage mechanism. Herein, we attempt to unravel the sodium storage mechanism using HCs with controlled ′closed′ and ′open′ porosities. Opening the ′closed′ pores diminishes the plateau region but does not affect the slope region. Electrochemical measurements coupled with N2 and CO2 gas adsorption studies reveal a strong correlation between closed pores with a diameter (d), 0.4 < d <1.5 nm and capacity contribution from the plateau region, supporting the adsorption/intercalation‐pore filling model. Solid‐state NMR measurements confirm the near metallic state of sodium in the ′closed′ micropores of HCs at potentials close to 0 V (vs. Na).
Non‐fuel uses for fatty acid methyl esters
Authors: Karis Dylan , Cain Robert , Young Kenneth , Shand Alexander , Holm Trevor , Springer Ethan
Published: August 2022

For the past two decades, biodiesel has been the workhorse for pioneering green fuel alternatives to petroleum diesel. Recent advancements in decarboxylation of fatty acid feedstocks through hydrogen treatment or the use of fatty acid photo decarboxylase have led to increasing interest in renewable diesel as the next ‘state of the art’. This paradigm shift has caused concern among traditional biodiesel producers, whose infrastructure may not be suitable for renewable diesel, that the supply chain and market demand for biodiesel will be disrupted. However, there are numerous alternative (non‐fuel) uses for biodiesel, which has applications in solvents, lubricants, feedstock chemicals, and more. This review seeks to highlight the advantages of using biodiesel in these industries and the potential for further research and development. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development and external validation of a novel nomogram to predict prostate cancer in biopsy‐naïve patients with PSA <10 ng/ml and PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3 lesions
Authors: Hu Can , Sun Jiale , Xu Zhenyu , Zhang Zhiyu , Zhou Qi , Xu Jiangnan , Chen Hao , Wang Chao , Ouyang Jun
Published: August 2022

Objective

To develop and externally validate a novel nomogram in biopsy‐naïve patients with prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) <10 ng/ml and PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3 lesions.

Methods

We retrospectively collected 307 men that underwent initial biopsy from October 2015 to January 2022 in Cohort 1 (The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University). External cohort (Cohort 2, Kunshan Hospital) included 109 men that met our criteria from July 2016 to June 2021. By Slicer‐3D Software, the volume of all lesions was divided into two subgroups (PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3a and 3b). Logistic regression analysis was performed to screen for variables and construct nomogram by analyzing clinical data from Cohort 1. Receiver operating characteristics curve analysis, calibration plot and decision curve analysis (DCA) were plotted to validate the nomogram in external cohort.

Results

A total of 70 (22.8%) patients was diagnosed with prostate cancer in Institution 1. Among them, 34 (11.1%) had clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa). Age, prostate‐specific antigen density, digital rectal examination, PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3 subgroups (3a and 3b) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC, <750 mm2/s) were predictive factors for prostate cancer (PCa) and csPCa. High area under the curve of the nomogram was found in Cohort 1 and Cohort 2 for PCa (0.857 vs. 0.850) and for csPCa (0.896 vs. 0.893). Calibration curves showed excellent agreement between the predicted probability and actual risk for the models in internal and external validation. The DCA demonstrated net benefit of our nomogram.

Conclusion

Until now, this is the first nomogram that predicts PCa and csPCa in biopsy‐naïve patients with PSA <10 ng/ml and PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3 lesions. Furthermore, PI‐RADS v2.1 = 3 subgroups were considered to be an independent risk factor in our model. Our nomogram may assist urologists in biopsy decision making for these so‐called “double gray zone” patients.
Competing risk analysis of cardiovascular death in patients with primary gallbladder cancer
Authors: Chen Chong , Xu Fengshuo , Yuan Shiqi , Zhao Xuenuo , Qiao Mengmeng , Han Didi , Lyu Jun
Published: August 2022

Background

Developments in medical technology are resulting in continuous decreases in the cancer mortality rate of patients with gallbladder cancer, while non‐cancer deaths in cancer patients are becoming more common. The main cause of this is cardiovascular mortality (CVM). The purpose of this study was to determine the CVM risk in patients with primary gallbladder cancer (PGC).

Methods

We extracted information on patients in the SEER database who were diagnosed with PGC from 2004 to 2015, compared CVM in patients with PGC with the general United States population, and calculated standardized mortality rates (SMRs) and the absolute excess risk. A competing risks model was used to identify and analyze the independent risk factors for cardiovascular death in patients with PGC.

Results

This study included 5925 patients, 247 of whom died from cardiovascular disease. The SMR of cardiovascular death in patients with PGC was 15.84 (95% confidence interval: 15.83–15.85), and the SMR was slightly lower in male than female patients. The competing risks analysis indicated that age, marital status, cancer cell differentiation, chemotherapy status, and year of diagnosis were risk factors for cardiovascular death in patients with PGC.

Conclusions

The CVM risk is considerably higher in patients with PGC than in the general population. It is therefore very necessary to apply cardioprotective interventions to patients with PGC.
A Photochemoenzymatic Hunsdiecker‐Borodin‐Type Halodecarboxylation of Ferulic Acid
Authors: Zippilli Claudio , Bartolome Miguel Jimenez , Hilberath Thomas , Botta Lorenzo , Hollmann Frank , Saladino Raffaele
Published: August 2022

A photochemoenzymatic halodecarboxylation of ferulic acid was achieved using vanadate‐dependent chloroperoxidase as (bio)catalyst and oxygen and organic solvent as sole stoichiometric reagents in a biphasic system. Performance and selectivity were improved through a phase transfer catalyst, reaching a turnover number of 660.000 for the enzyme.
Central mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the mandible deriving from odontogenic cyst: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Loreti Andrea , Ornella Abate , Arelli Floriana , Spallone Diana , Bruno Edoardo , De Luca Pietro , Costarelli Leopoldo , Camaioni Angelo
Published: August 2022

Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma (MEC) it can origin from a mandibular odontogenic cyst. We report the case of a 63‐year‐old man with MEC of the right retromolar trigonum of the mandibula. We performed a wide mandibular excision and immediate reconstruction with a fibula bone free flap.
Size‐Dependent Structural Alterations in Ag Nanoparticles during CO2 Electrolysis in a Gas‐Fed Zero‐Gap Electrolyzer
Authors: Hu Huifang , Liu Menglong , Kong Ying , Montiel Iván Zelocualtecatl , Hou Yuhui , Rudnev Alexander V. , Broekmann Peter
Published: August 2022

Ag nanoparticles (NPs) are efficient electrocatalysts for electrochemical CO2‐to‐CO conversion. However, NPs are thermodynamically unstable and can undergo structural alterations under electrolysis operating conditions. These structural changes may play a crucial role in the deterioration of CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) performance on the long‐term electrolysis time scale. Here, we studied the effect of NP size on NP degradation during CO2RR. Polyvinylpyrrolidone‐capped 10, 40, and 100 nm Ag NPs deposited on a gas diffusion electrode were used as testbed catalysts in a gas‐fed zero‐gap electrolyzer. Inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry indicated insignificant catalyst‐material detachment after galvanostatic CO2 electrolysis. Scanning electron microscopy analysis showed that smaller NPs tended to agglomerate during CO2 electrolysis. 100 nm NPs formed agglomerates consisting of only two‐three NPs and underwent pronounced fragmentation with the formation of particles several nanometers in size. The fragmentation was associated with cathodic corrosion of Ag NPs under conditions of intensive CO2RR and hydrogen evolution.
Understanding risk factors for cancer: What's new and how can it help reduce the cancer burden?
Authors: Glanz Karen , Chen Jinbo , Joffe Steven
Published: August 2022

The article by Patel et al. provided new analyses of two large cohorts that are largely confirmatory of known risk factors for cancer. Although this work was provocative, there is still work to be done to demonstrate the practical utility of describing cancer as a single endpoint and to validate multicancer detection tests as an evidence‐based strategy to improve cancer outcomes.
Key risk factors for the relative and absolute 5‐year risk of cancer to enhance cancer screening and prevention
Authors: Patel Alpa V. , Deubler Emily , Teras Lauren R. , Colditz Graham A. , Lichtman Cari J. , Cance William G. , Clarke Christina A.
Published: August 2022

Background

This study identifies populations who may benefit most from expanded cancer screening.

Methods

Two American Cancer Society prospective cohort studies, Cancer Prevention Study‐II Nutrition Cohort and Cancer Prevention Study‐3, were used to identify the risk factors associated with a > 2% absolute risk of any cancer within 5 years. In total, 429,991 participants with no prior personal history of cancer were followed for cancer for up to 5 years. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals for association. By using these hazard ratios, individualized coherent absolute risk estimation was used to calculate absolute risks by age.

Results

Overall, 15,226 invasive cancers were diagnosed among participants within 5 years of enrollment. The multivariable‐adjusted relative risk of any cancer was strongest for current smokers compared with never‐smokers. In men, alcohol intake, family history of cancer, red meat consumption, and physical inactivity were also associated with risk (p < .05). In women, body mass index, type 2 diabetes, hysterectomy, parity, family history of cancer, hypertension, tubal ligation, and physical inactivity were associated (p < .05). The absolute 5‐year risk exceeded 2% among nearly all participants older than 50 years and among some participants younger than 50 years, including current or former smokers (<30 years since quitting) and long‐term nonsmokers with a body mass index >25 kg/m2 or a first‐degree family history of cancer. The absolute 5‐year risk was as high as 29% in men and 25% in women.

Conclusions

Older age and smoking were the two most important risk factors associated with the relative and absolute 5‐year risk of developing any cancer.
A telehealth intervention for symptom management, distress, and adherence to adjuvant endocrine therapy: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jacobs Jamie M. , Post Kathryn , Massad Katina , Horick Nora K. , Walsh Emily A. , Cohn Julia , Rapoport Chelsea S. , Clara Amy J. , Antoni Michael H. , Safren Steven A. , Partridge Ann H. , Peppercorn Jeffrey M. , Park Elyse R. , Temel Jennifer S. , Greer Joseph A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Patients taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) after breast cancer face adherence challenges and symptom‐related distress. We conducted a randomized trial to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a telehealth intervention (Symptom‐Targeted Randomized Intervention for Distress and Adherence to Adjuvant Endocrine Therapy [STRIDE]) for patients taking AET.

Methods

From October 2019 to June 2021, 100 patients reporting difficulty with AET were randomly assigned to either STRIDE or a medication monitoring (MedMon) control group. STRIDE included six weekly small‐group videoconferencing sessions and two individual calls. We defined feasibility as having >50% of eligible patients enroll, >70% complete the 12‐week assessment, and > 70% of STRIDE patients complete ≥4/6 sessions. We monitored adherence with the Medication Event Monitoring System Caps (MEMS Caps). At baseline and 12‐ and 24‐weeks after baseline, patients self‐reported adherence (Medication Adherence Report Scale), AET satisfaction (Cancer Therapy Satisfaction Questionnaire), symptom distress (Breast Cancer Prevention Trial‐Symptom Checklist), self‐management of symptoms (Self‐efficacy for Symptom Management‐AET), coping (Measure of Current Status), quality of life (QOL; Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy‐Breast), and mood (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale). We used linear mixed effects models to assess the effect of STRIDE on longitudinal outcomes.

Results

We enrolled 70.9% (100/141) of eligible patients; 92% completed the 12‐week assessment, and 86% completed ≥4/6 STRIDE sessions. Compared with MedMon, STRIDE patients reported less symptom distress (B[difference] = −1.91; 95% CI, −3.29 to −0.52; p = .007) and better self‐management of AET symptoms, coping, QOL, and mood. We did not observe significant differences in AET satisfaction or adherence.

Conclusions

STRIDE is feasible and acceptable, showing promise for improving outcomes in patients taking AET after breast cancer.

Lay summary

Patients taking adjuvant endocrine therapy (AET) after breast cancer may face challenges while following their treatment regimen.

In this randomized controlled trial of 100 patients taking AET, a brief, small‐group virtual intervention (STRIDE) was well‐received by patients and led to improvements in how upset patients were due to symptoms, how confident they were in managing symptoms, and how well they could cope with stress. Thus, STRIDE is a promising intervention and should be tested in future multi‐site trials.
Strategies for the Construction of Functional Materials Utilizing Presynthesized Metal‐Organic Cages (MOCs)
Authors: Li Tian‐Tian , Liu Shu‐Na , Wu Liang‐Hua , Cai Song‐Liang , Zheng Sheng‐Run
Published: August 2022

Metal‐organic cages (MOCs) that assemble from metal ions or metal clusters and organic ligands have attracted the interest of the scientific community because of their various functional coordination cavities. Unlike metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) with infinite frameworks, MOCs have discrete structures, making them soluble and stable in certain solvents and facilitating their application as starting reagents in the further construction of single components or composite materials. In recent years, increasing progress has been made in this field. In this review, we introduce these works from the perspective of design strategies, and focus on how presynthesized MOCs can be used to construct functional materials. Finally, we discuss the challenges and development prospects in this field.