bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cooperative and Orthogonal Switching in the Solid State Enabled by Metal‐Organic Framework Confinement Leading to a Thermo‐Photochromic Platform
Authors: Wilson Gina R. , Park Kyoung Chul , Thaggard Grace C. , Martin Corey R. , Hill Austin R. , Haimerl Johanna , Lim Jaewoong , Maldeni Kankanamalage Buddhima K. P. , Yarbrough Brandon J. , Forrester Kelly L. , Fischer Roland A. , Pellechia Perry J. , Smith Mark D. , Garashchuk Sophya , Shustova Natalia B.
Published: July 2023

Cooperative behavior and orthogonal responses of two classes of coordinatively integrated photochromic molecules towards distinct external stimuli were demonstrated on the first example of a photo‐thermo‐responsive hierarchical platform. Synergetic and orthogonal responses to temperature and excitation wavelength are achieved by confining the stimuli‐responsive moieties within a metal–organic framework (MOF), leading to the preparation of a novel photo‐thermo‐responsive spiropyran‐diarylethene based material. Synergistic behavior of two photoswitches enables the study of stimuli‐responsive resonance energy transfer as well as control of the photoinduced charge transfer processes, milestones required to advance optoelectronics development. Spectroscopic studies in combination with theoretical modeling revealed a nonlinear effect on the material electronic structure arising from the coordinative integration of photoresponsive molecules with distinct photoisomerization mechanisms. Thus, the reported work covers multivariable facets of not only fundamental aspects of photoswitch cooperativity, but also provides a pathway to modulate photophysics and electronics of multidimensional functional materials exhibiting thermo‐photochromism.
Marine carrageenan‐based NiO nanocatalyst in solvent‐free synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives
Authors: Buazar Foad , Sayahi Mohammad Hosein , Zarei Sefiddashti Arezoo
Published: July 2023

This study presents the preparation of nickel oxide nanoparticles (NiO NPs) in the presence of marine seaweed kappa‐carrageenan (κ‐carrageenan) polysaccharide as a green stabilizer and coating agent under optimal conditions. Thermal gravimetric analyzer (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) results revealed thermal stability and the presence of functional groups of κ‐carrageenan‐coated NiO (NiO@κ‐Car) NPs. The color change of the solution from green to black and advent peak at 320 nm primitively confirmed the formation of NiO NPs. Further, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of NiO@κ‐Car demonstrate rather irregular spherical and cubic morphology, showing an average size of 18 ± 1.5 nm. Further, X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirms that NiO NPs appear as cubic crystal structures with a crystallite size of 23.7 nm. According to the turnover number (TON) and turnover frequency (TOF) results, green NiO@κ‐Car exhibits superior catalytic efficiency in one‐pot multicomponent synthesis of polyhydroquinoline derivatives under free‐solvent conditions. Hydrogen‐1 (1H) and carbon‐13 (13C) nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra indicated the successful synthesis of various organic products. The key advantages of the proposed efficient synthetic protocol include reusability of the catalyst (four runs), simple workout, high yield of the products, environmental sustainability, and solvent‐free reaction condition. A possible mechanism was also suggested, indicating the role of NiO@κ‐Car as a proficient heterogeneous nanocatalyst in the reaction.
A Tetrazine‐Caged Carbon‐Dipyrromethene as a Bioorthogonally Activatable Fluorescent Probe
Authors: Tam Leo K. B. , Lo Pui‐Chi , Cheung Peter Chi Keung , Ng Dennis K. P.
Published: July 2023

A water‐soluble 1,2,4,5‐tetrazine‐substituted carbon‐dipyrromethene (C–DIPY) was synthesized from the previously reported carbonyl pyrrole dimer through a two‐step procedure. Owing to the presence of a tetrazine moiety, the fluorescence emission of this compound was largely quenched in phosphate‐buffered saline at pH 7.4. Upon addition of a bicyclo[6.1.0]non‐4‐yne (BCN) derivative, the tetrazine‐based quenching component of the compound was disrupted through the inverse electron‐demand Diels‐Alder reaction to restore the fluorescence in up to 6.6‐fold. This bioorthogonal activation was also demonstrated using U‐87 MG human glioblastoma cells, in which the fluorescence intensity of this C–DIPY could be enhanced by 8.7‐fold upon post‐incubation with the BCN derivative. The results showed that this tetrazine‐caged C–DIPY can serve as a bioorthogonally activatable fluorescent probe for bioimaging. The compound, however, was found to reside preferentially in the lysosomes instead of the mitochondria of the cells as predicted based on its cationic character, which could be attributed to its energy‐dependent endocytic cellular uptake pathway, for which lysosomes are the end station.
Coordinated Distributed Experiments in Higher Education: A Low Barrier to Entry and Potential for Student Projects
Authors: Koomen Michele , Ross Jake , Hinrichs Emelia , Hofstede Ellen , Grimes Jolie , Mohl Emily
Published: July 2023

This mixed‐methods research focused on the implementation of a coordinated distributed experiment (CDE) investigating local adaptation in common milkweed (Asclepias syriaca), a host plant for the monarch butterfly population. Faculty participants were recruited from the Ecological Research as Education Network (EREN) who recruited their former undergraduate students. Quantitative data were drawn from the Milkweed Local Adaptation (MLA) CDE database across the three project years. Qualitative data included faculty survey responses, semi‐structured interviews of faculty and former undergraduates, and review of undergraduate research posters, papers, and curricula using rubrics aligned with 4DEE and Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) benchmarks. Analysis of the MLA CDE database illustrates a decline in both participating institutions and in counts of milkweed stems over the project (2018–2020). Qualitative data analysis revealed that CDEs: (1) offer opportunities for higher education faculty and their students to be part of research including developing skills of data collection, analysis, and interpretation; (2) have unexpected challenges; and (3) can inspire undergraduate students to develop independent research projects or curricular modules for use in formal 6–12 classrooms. Broader ecological educational implications of our outcomes for higher education faculty and their undergraduate students include: (1) recommendation that faculty members involved ought to be proactively informed about potential challenges and provided with guidance on how to mitigate them; (2) mitigating challenges with model studies to try to estimate the sample size and redundancy likely to produce robust data; and (3) proactive use of the educational network to understand institutional use of the CDE project with undergraduates.
Implications of AAV affinity column reuse and vector stability on product quality attributes
Authors: Soni Harshal , Lako Ira , Placidi Matteo , Cramer Steven M.
Published: July 2023

In this work, the implications of AAV9 capsid design and column reuse on AAV9 vector product quality were assessed with POROS CaptureSelect (PCS) AAVX and AAV9 resins using sf9 insect cell‐derived model AAV9 vectors with varying viral protein (VP) ratios. Chromatographic experiments with purified drug substance AAV9 model feeds indicated consistent vector elution profiles, independent of adeno‐associated virus (AAV) VP ratio, or cycle number. In contrast, the presence of process impurities in the clarified lysate feeds resulted in clear changes in the elution patterns. This included increased aggregate content in the vector eluates over multiple cycles as well as clear differences in the performance of these affinity resin systems. The AAV9‐serotype specific PCS AAV9 column, with lower vector elution pH, resulted in higher aggregate content over multiple cycles as compared to the serotype‐independent PCS AAVX column. Further, the results with vectors of varying VP ratio indicated that while one vector type eluate displayed higher aggregation in both affinity columns over column reuse, the eluate with the other vector type did not exhibit changes in the aggregation profile. Interestingly, vector aggregates in the affinity eluates also contained double‐stranded DNA impurities and histone proteins, with similar trends to the aggregate levels. This behavior upon column reuse indicates that these host cell impurities are likely carried over to subsequent runs due to incomplete clean‐in‐place (CIP). These results indicate that feed impurities, affinity resin characteristics, elution pH, column CIP, and vector stability can impact the reusability of AAV affinity columns and product quality.
Demystifying PCR tests, challenges, alternatives, and future: A quick review focusing on COVID and fungal infections
Authors: Sajeer Paramabth Muhammad , Varma Manoj
Published: July 2023

The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique is one of the most potent tools in molecular biology. It is extensively used for various applications ranging from medical diagnostics to forensic science and food quality testing. This technique has facilitated to survive COVID‐19 pandemic by identifying the virus‐infected individuals effortlessly and effectively. This review explores the principles, recent advancements, challenges, and alternatives of PCR technique in the context of COVID‐19 and fungal infections. The introduction of PCR technique for anyone new to this field is the primary aim of this review and thereby equips them to understand the science of COVID‐19 and related fungal infections in a simplistic manner.
Design, Synthesis, and Bioactivity Evaluation of Novel Rosin Diterpenoid Derivatives as Potential Anti‐glioma Agents
Authors: Ou Jiayi , Tan Weiyun , Chen Gong , Yang Xianjing , Luo Yan , Jin Xiaobao , Ye Lianbao
Published: July 2023

Glioma is the most common brain tumor and its treatment options are limited. Abietic acid and dehydroabietic acid are tricyclic diterpenoid oxygen compounds with strong lip solubility and anti‐glioma activity. In this study, novel rosin diterpenoid derivatives were designed and synthesized using abietic acid and dehydrogenated abietic acid as lead compounds and their activities against T98G, U87MG, and U251 cells were evaluated by CCK‐8 methods. The in vivo activity of compounds with stronger activity in vitro was preliminarily studied through the Zebrafish model. The results showed that the IC50 values of B6, B8, B10, and B12 were 11.47 to 210.6 μM, which were exhibited higher antiproliferative potency against T98G, U87MG, and U251. The scratch experiment showed that B12 inhibited the migration of T98G in a time‐dependent and concentration‐dependent manner. The results of in vivo activity further explained that B12 could inhibit the proliferation of the T98G. The pKa values of B6, B8, B10, and B12 were 7.17 to 7.35, which were within the ideal range of glioma drugs. The ADME predictions indicated that these derivatives could pass through the blood‐brain barrier. In addition, molecular docking primarily explained interaction between compounds and protein. These results suggested that B12 should be a promising candidate that merits further attention in the development of anti‐glioma drugs.
Sharing Failure as a Graduate Student
Authors: Stella Gianna
Published: July 2023

Graduate students face failure on a regular basis. Should they keep these failures hidden away or share them with others? One graduate student contemplates this question and shares her own experiences.
Investigating the Dynamics of Pt/CeO2 Catalysts at the Powder Agglomerate Scale by Combining In Situ Hyperspectral Raman Imaging and SEM‐EDX Analysis
Authors: Molinet‐Chinaglia Clément , Piccolo Laurent , Loridant Stéphane
Published: July 2023

The dynamics of Pt/CeO2 catalysts is a hot topic since its knowledge can be used to (re)generate more active sites for redox reactions, even at low temperature (<500 °C). While numerous works focus on the atomic scale, the spatial extent of Pt surface diffusion is poorly known. In this work, it is evaluated at the powder agglomerate scale using an original methodology combining SEM‐EDX analysis and in situ optical/microRaman hyperspectral imaging performed on a Pt/CeO2+CeO2 mechanical mixture. No intergranular diffusion of platinum during redox cycles at 500 °C is revealed by these techniques, in particular by the Raman images of Ce3+ and peroxo species, which are highly sensitive to the presence of Pt atoms. It strongly suggests that Pt surface diffusion takes place only at the nanometer scale and could be limited by atom trapping on Pt/CeO2 agglomerates. Our method for investigating diffusion processes at the micrometer scale may be extended to other thermochemical conditions and other materials.
Borenium‐Ions in Catalytic Aromatic C−H Borylation
Authors: Tan Xinyue , Wang Huadong
Published: July 2023

The catalytic C−H borylation of (hetero)arenes involving borenium species has witnessed fast development in the past decade. This review aims at summarize recent progress made in this field, with an emphasis on synthetic application and reaction mechanisms.
Preparation of 3‐D Porous Pure Al Electrode for Al‐Air Battery Anode and Comparison of its Electrochemical Performance with a Smooth Surface Electrode
Authors: Kahveci Osman
Published: July 2023

This study compared the electrochemical performances of porous surface electrodes obtained by the salt casting process against a smooth surface electrode. Potentiodynamic polarization test, linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests of porous and smooth Al electrodes were performed using 0.5 M NaOH solution. According to the Tafel analysis, the Jcor value of the Al‐porous electrode was measured as 3.23 mA cm−2, which is approximately 55 % higher than the Al‐smooth electrode. The Ecor value was more negative for the Al‐porous electrode. Results of the low charge transfer resistance (2.2 Ω) of the Al‐porous electrode compared to the Al‐smooth electrode (2.8 Ω) concluded that the porous surface was increased the current density by increasing charge transport due to higher surface area. The galvanostatic discharge tests of the electrodes were carried out in an Al‐air battery test cell using a graphite carbon air cathode. As a result, the power density of the Al‐porous electrode was approximately 42 % higher than the Al‐smooth surface electrode.
Germylenes Exhibiting Solid‐State Emissions that Extend to NIR
Authors: Shukla Pratima , Nath Acharyya Jitendra , Mahawar Pritam , Kumar Hemant , Chandra Joshi Prakash , Kumar Singh Vivek , Vijaya Prakash G. , Nagendran Selvarajan
Published: July 2023

Low‐valent main group compounds that fluoresce in the solid‐state were previously unknown. To address this, we investigated room‐temperature photoluminescence from a series of crystals of germylenes 3–8 in this article; they exhibited emissions nearly reaching the NIR. Germylene carboxylates (3–8) were synthesized by reacting dipyrromethene stabilized germylene pyrrolide (2) with carboxylic acids such as acetic acid, trifluoroacetic acid, benzoic acid, p‐cyanobenzoic acid, p‐nitrobenzoic acid, and acetylsalicylic acid.
Bridging the Gap between Zeolites and Dense Silica Polymorphs: Formation of All‐Silica Zeolite with High Framework Density from Natural Layered Silicate Magadiite
Authors: Koike Masakazu , Grosskreuz Isabel , Asakura Yusuke , Miyawaki Ritsuro , Gies Hermann , Wada Hiroaki , Shimojima Atsushi , Marler Bernd , Kuroda Kazuyuki
Published: July 2023

A silica zeolite (RWZ‐1) with a very high framework density (FD) was synthesized from highly crystalline natural layered silicate magadiite, bridging the gap between the two research areas of zeolites and dense silica polymorphs. Magadiite was topotactically converted into a 3D framework through two‐step heat treatment. The resulting structure had a 1D micropore system of channel‐like cavities with an FD of 22.1 Si atoms/1000 Å3. This value is higher than those of all other silica zeolites reported so far, approaching those of silica polymorphs (tridymite (22.6) and α‐quartz (26.5)). RWZ‐1 is a slight negative thermal expansion material with thermal properties approaching those of dense silica polymorphs. It contributes to the creation of a new field on microporous high‐density silica/silicates. Synergistic interactions are expected between the micropores with molecular sieving properties and the dense layer‐like building units with different topologies which provide thermal and mechanical stabilities.
Für eine umweltfreundliche Abwasserreinigung
Authors: Haermeyer Jörg
Published: July 2023

Der großtechnische Einsatz von granulierter Aktivkohle (GAK) in der 4. Reinigungsstufe ist im Vergleich zur Verwendung von Pulveraktivkohle (PAK) nur in geringem Umfang in der Abwasserreingung verbreitet. Dabei liegen die Vorteile einer wiederholten Reaktivierung und der damit verbundenen mehrfachen Wiederverwendung im Sinne einer umweltfreundlichen Kreislaufführung auf der Hand.
Kohlendioxid aus der Atomsphäre entfernen
Authors: Böhringer Christine
Published: July 2023

Direct Air Capture (DAC) ist eine aufstrebende Technologie, die das Potenzial hat, den Klimawandel zu bekämpfen, indem sie direkt Kohlendioxid (CO2) aus der Atmosphäre entfernt. Eine gängige Methode besteht darin, Luft durch chemische Lösungen zu leiten, die CO2 absorbieren können. Das absorbierte CO2 wird dann isoliert und entweder zur Speicherung oder zur Nutzung in verschiedenen Industrieprozessen verwendet. Messtechnik von Endress+Hauser sorgt für die Effizienz und Sicherheit der Prozesse.
Klärschlamm: Schadstoff‐ und Rohstoffquelle zugleich
Authors: Dous Andreas , Kirchhof Jan
Published: July 2023

Die thermische Klärschlammverwertung schafft die Voraussetzungen für das Recycling von Phosphor. Im niedersächsischen Helmstedt ist die erste der aktuell fünf geplanten Klärschlamm‐Monoverbrennungsanlagen (KVA) im Herbst 2022 in Betrieb gesetzt worden. Die eingesetzte Wirbelschichttechnologie zählt zu den Leitverfahren bei partikelbildenden Prozessen und eignet sich hervorragend für die wirtschaftliche Herstellung maßgeschneiderter Dünger.
Fahrzeugkatalysatoren zerkleinern
Authors: Klein Dagmar
Published: July 2023

In Fahrzeugkatalysatoren sind Edelmetalle enthalten, die sich zu recyceln lohnen kann. Der Edelmetallgehalt lässt sich analytisch bestimmen. Für die Probenvorbereitung ist eine Pulverisierung der Katalysatorwabenkerne notwendig, die mit Schneid‐ und Planentenmühlen erfolgen kann.
π‐Extended End Groups Enable High‐Performance All‐Polymer Solar Cells with Near‐Infrared Absorption
Authors: Yu Linfeng , Xiao Haiqin , Shi Yu , Guo Xia , Xia Xinxin , Lu Xinhui , Zhang Maojie
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Narrow‐bandgap n‐type polymers are essential for advancing the development of all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs). Herein, we developed a novel polymer acceptor PNT with π‐extended 2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐cyclopenta[b]naphthalen‐1‐ylidene) malononitrile (CPNM) end groups. Compared to commonly used 2‐(3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐cyclopenta[b]naphthalen‐1ylidene) malononitrile (IC) units, CPNM units have a further extended fused ring, providing the PNT polymer with extended absorption into the near‐IR region (903 nm) and exhibiting a narrow optical bandgap (1.37 eV). Furthermore, PNT exhibits a high electron mobility (6.79 × 10−4 cm2·V−1·S−1) and a relatively high‐lying lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy level of −3.80 eV. When blended with PBDB‐T, all‐PSC achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.7% and a high short‐circuit current density (JSC) of 24.4 mA·cm−2, mainly attributed to broad absorption (600—900 nm) and efficient charge separation and collection. Our study provides a promising polymer acceptor for all‐PSCs and demonstrates that π‐extended CPNM units are important to achieve high‐performance for all‐PSCs.
Silane or Siloxane‐Side‐Chain Engineering of Photovoltaic Materials for Organic Solar Cells†
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhang Xu , Zou Wentao , Xu Huajun , Kan Yuanyuan , Sun Yanna , Gao Ke
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

With the tactful material design, skillful device engineering, and in‐depth understanding of morphology optimization, organic solar cells (OSCs) have achieved considerable success. Therefore, OSCs have reached high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) exceeding 19%. Especially, continuously emerging new materials have been considered as one of the key factors to improve the PCEs of OSCs. Among molecular design strategies, side‐chain engineering is an easy and commonly‐used means which can optimize the solubility, alter intermolecular stacking arrangement, fine‐tune the open circuit voltage (VOC), thus ultimately improve the performance. As hybrid side chains, silane and siloxane side chains have considerable effects, not only in increasing the carrier mobility and tuning the energy level, but also in affecting the crystallinity and molecular orientation. In this review, the latest developments in photovoltaic materials based on silane and siloxane side chains are presented to illustrate the structure‐property relationships. The review comprehensively includes silane‐side based polymer/small molecule donors; siloxane‐side based polymer/small molecule donors, and polymer/small molecule acceptors. Then the similarities and differences between these two side chains are demonstrated. Finally, the possible applications and future prospects of silane and siloxane side chains are presented.
Acute toxicity comparison of magnetic resonance‐guided adaptive versus fiducial or computed tomography‐guided non‐adaptive prostate stereotactic body radiotherapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Leeman Jonathan E. , Shin Kee‐Young , Chen Yu‐Hui , Mak Raymond H. , Nguyen Paul L. , D’Amico Anthony V. , Martin Neil E.
Published: July 2023

Background

Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is gaining wider adoption for prostate cancer management but there remain significant toxicity risks when delivering prostate SBRT with standard techniques. Magnetic resonance‐guided daily adaptive SBRT (MRg‐A‐SBRT) offers technological advantages in precision of radiation dose delivery, but the toxicity profile associated with MRg‐A‐SBRT compared to more standardly used fiducial or computed tomography‐guided non‐adaptive prostate SBRT (CT‐SBRT) remains unknown.

Methods

A meta‐analysis to compare acute toxicity rates associated with MRg‐A‐SBRT and CT‐SBRT for prostate cancer was performed in compliance with PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE (PubMed) and Google Scholar were searched for prospective studies of prostate SBRT that were published between January 1, 2018 and August 31, 2022. Random effects and fixed effects models were used to estimate pooled toxicity rates, and meta‐regression was performed to compare toxicity between MRg‐A‐SBRT and CT‐SBRT study groups.

Results

Twenty‐nine prospective studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria and included a total of 2547 patients. The pooled estimates for acute grade 2 or higher (G2+) genitourinary (GU) and gastrointestinal (GI) toxicity for MRg‐A‐SBRT were 16% (95% confidence interval [CI], 10%–24%) and 4% (95% CI, 2%–7%) and for CT‐SBRT they were 28% (95% CI, 23%‐33%) and 9% (95% CI, 6%‐12%), respectively. On meta‐regression, the odds ratios for acute G2+ GU and GI toxicities comparing MRg‐A‐SBRT and CT‐SBRT were 0.56 (95% CI, 0.33–0.97, p = .04) and 0.40 (95% CI, 0.17–0.96, p = .04), respectively.

Conclusion

MRg‐A‐SBRT is associated with a significantly reduced risk of acute G2+ GU or GI toxicity compared to CT‐SBRT. Longer follow‐up will be needed to evaluate late toxicity and disease control outcomes.

Plain language summary

Magnetic resonance imaging‐guided daily adaptive prostate stereotactic radiation (MRg‐A‐SBRT) is a treatment that may allow for delivery of prostate radiation more precisely than other radiotherapy techniques, but it is unknown whether this reduces side effects compared to standardly used computed tomography‐guided SBRT (CT‐SBRT).

In this systematic review and meta‐analysis combining data from 29 clinical trials including 2547 patients, it was found that the risk of short‐term urinary side effects was reduced by 44% and the risk of short‐term bowel side effects was reduced by 60% with MRg‐A‐SBRT compared to CT‐SBRT.
Facile Synthesis of Ultrafine and Highly Dispersible MnO2 Nanoparticles for Energy Storage in Supercapacitors
Authors: Liu Zichuan , Peng Linghui , Shen Lingling , Qiu Hongbo , Fan Weiren , Wang Tao , Zhu Bocheng , Jiang Xuchuan
Published: July 2023

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) has been extensively investigated as an electrode material for supercapacitors because of its high theoretical capacitance, great abundance, and low toxicity. To obtain satisfactory capacitance performance, in recent years, many efforts have been dedicated to the fabrication of MnO2 nanoparticles that offer a larger specific surface area and an escalated chemical activity. Beyond them, the ideal dispersibility of nanoparticles in a liquid medium is also of vital importance when processing those powdery materials into slurry ones for some particular uses, such as editable and ink‐printing supercapacitor devices. In this study, the as‐synthesized ultrafine MnO2 nanoparticles having excellent dispersibility in water can be prepared via a facile one‐step hydrothermal route, with a uniform size in diameter of 200 nm exhibiting a large specific surface area of ~389.7 m2 g−1, and a high specific capacitance of 135.7 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1.
RNA Secondary Structure Analysis Using RNAstructure
Authors: Ali Sara E. , Mittal Abhinav , Mathews David H.
Published: July 2023

RNAstructure is a user‐friendly program for the prediction and analysis of RNA secondary structure. It is available as a web server, a program with a graphical user interface, or a set of command line tools. The programs are available for Microsoft Windows, macOS, or Linux. This article provides protocols for prediction of RNA secondary structure (using the web server, the graphical user interface, or the command line) and high‐affinity oligonucleotide binding sites to a structured RNA target (using the graphical user interface). © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Predicting RNA secondary structure using the RNAstructure web server

Alternate Protocol 1: Predicting secondary structure and base pair probabilities using the RNAstructure graphical user interface

Alternate Protocol 2: Predicting secondary structure and base pair probabilities using the RNAstructure command line interface

Basic Protocol 2: Predicting binding affinities of oligonucleotides complementary to an RNA target using OligoWalk
Impact of independent director network on corporate green innovation: Evidence from Chinese listed companies
Authors: Qiu Qiang , Yu Jinyue
Published: July 2023

Green innovation has an essential impact on harmonizing the relationship between the ecological environment and economic development, and alleviating environmental problems. Drawing on social network theory, this article proposes the relationship between the social network of independent directors and corporate green innovation. Using the data from listed Chinese companies from 2008 to 2020, this study finds independent directors in the center of the network can significantly promote corporate green innovation. The promotion is stronger in non‐state enterprises and heavy polluters. Further research finds that internal and external corporate contexts can influence the relationship between independent director networks and green innovation. With the more slack resources, the higher operational risk level, and the more competitive the market, the role of the independent directors' social network on corporate green innovation is stronger. This article contributes to the understanding of the impact mechanisms of corporate green innovation and also helps promote green innovation.
Optimisation of multi‐tier supply chain distribution networks with corporate social responsibility concerns in fast‐fashion retail
Authors: Fares Naila , Lloret Jaime , Kumar Vikas , de Leeuw Sander , Barnes Liz
Published: July 2023

This study analyses the problem of multi‐tier supply chains, including suppliers, producers, wholesalers, and retailers. Decision‐makers should analyse the social, environmental, and economic constraints in a multi‐dimensional business context. We analyse these issues by considering the corporate social responsibility (CSR) concerns. A scorecard‐based mathematical model, consisting of mixed‐integer linear programming, is developed to assist fast‐fashion decision‐makers in supply chain policy formulation. The model is validated through a practical case study using IBM CPLEX Optimizer. The results indicate that involving the social aspect can increase the profit compared to considering only the economic impact, under high environmental costs with low return on investment. Furthermore, the mathematical model is able for the case study to optimise the distribution network of the entire multi‐tier supply chain, considering CSR concerns, in less than 5 s. This research has implications for the advancement of multi‐tier supply chain optimisation and provides a basis for future distribution decisions for firm stakeholders.
Zn‐ion Batteries: Charge Storing Mechanism and Development Challenges
Authors: Chodankar Nilesh R. , Shinde Pragati A. , Patil Swati J. , Rama Raju Ganji Seeta , Hwang Seung‐Kyu , Marje Supriya J. , Tyagaraj Harshitha B. , Al Hajri Ebrahim , Al Ghaferi Amal , Huh Yun Suk , Han Young‐Kyu
Published: July 2023

Improving the energy share of renewable energy technologies is the only solution to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. The high‐performing green battery energy storage technologies are critical for storing energy to address the intermittent nature of renewable energy resources. In recent years, aqueous batteries, particularly Zn‐ion batteries (ZIBs), have achieved and shown great potential for stationary energy storage systems owing to their low cost and safer operation. However, the practical applications of the ZIBs have significantly been impeded due to the gap between the breakthroughs achieved in academic research and industrial developments. The present review discusses the ZIB′s advantages, possibilities, and shortcomings for stationary energy storage systems. The Review begins with a brief introduction to the ZIBs and their charge storage mechanisms based on the structural properties of cathode materials. The scientific and technical challenges that obstruct the commercialization of the ZIBs are discussed in detail concerning their impact on accelerating the utilization of the ZIBs for real‐life applications. The final section highlights the outlook on research in this flourishing field.
Cannabidiol ameliorates inflammatory response partly by AGE‐RAGE pathway in diabetic mice
Authors: Li Shuai , Fan Chunxiang , Li Xu , Li Shanshan , Yu Tianfei , Zhang Weiwei , Ma Tianyi , Zhao Ming , Li Deshan , Xiao Wei , Shan Anshan
Published: July 2023

Cannabidiol (CBD), the most abundant nonpsychoactive constituent of Cannabis sativa plant, is a promising potential pharmacotherapy for the treatment of diabetes and associated comorbidities. Previous studies have shown the potential of CBD to prevent diabetes in mice, the precise mechanisms of action remain unclear. The purpose of this study was to explore the mechanism of CBD alleviating hyperglycemia. The results demonstrated that CBD reduced blood glucose of STZ‐induced diabetic mice without causing hypoglycemia. To elucidate the possible mechanisms of CBD effect, RNA‐seq analysis was performed on high glucose‐induced human mesangial cells (HMCs). By cluster analysis of differential genes, the results showed that advanced glycation end products‐receptor of advanced glycation endproducts (AGE‐RAGE) pathway‐related genes CCL2 and interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) play an important role in the biological of CBD. The expression of CCL2 and IL‐1β were significantly increased in HMCs. Whereas, treatment with CBD decreased the expression of CCL2 and IL‐1β. In addition, CBD significantly reduced AGE‐RAGE levels in high glucose‐induced HMCs. Similar results were confirmed in diabetic mice. In conclusion, we discovered for the first time that CBD ameliorates hyperglycemia partly through AGE‐RAGE mediated CCL2/IL‐1β pathway.
Diols Speed Up Guanidine Base Catalyzed Claisen‐Schmidt Condensation to Produce New 15‐Arylidene Steroids
Authors: Ispán Dávid , Küzdő Áron , Fonyó Máté , Gömöry Ágnes , Tumanov Nikolay , Wouters Johan , Mahó Sándor , Lendvay György , Skoda‐Földes Rita
Published: July 2023

Considerable acceleration was observed in the guanidine‐base catalysed Claisen‐Schmidt condensation of benzaldehyde and a 17α‐methyl‐18‐nor‐5α,13α‐androstan‐16‐one (1) in the presence of ethylene glycol. Rate‐enhancement effects of various alcohols and diols were compared. In quantum chemical calculations, coordination of the carbonyl group of the substrate was found to reduce the potential barrier to the proton transfer from the α carbon and thus facilitate the formation of the anion that attacks the aldehyde. Both the experiments and the calculations showed that diols enhance the reactivity more efficiently than alcohols. Ethylene glycol/guanidine‐base mixtures were found to be efficient catalysts and solvents in the synthesis of a range of new 17α‐methyl‐18‐nor‐13α‐15‐arylidene steroids. This solvent mixture has a further advantage: the crude products can be isolated by simple extraction after introduction of CO2. It is also shown that by the proper choice of the base, the base/diol mixture can be recycled.
Modeling temporally misaligned data across space: The case of total pollen concentration in Toronto
Authors: Zapata‐Marin Sara , Schmidt Alexandra M. , Weichenthal Scott , Lavigne Eric
Published: July 2023

Due to the high costs of monitoring environmental processes, measurements are commonly taken at different temporal scales. When observations are available at different temporal scales across different spatial locations, we name it temporal misalignment. Rather than aggregating the data and modeling it at the coarser scale, we propose a model that accounts simultaneously for the fine and coarser temporal scales. More specifically, we propose a spatiotemporal model that accounts for the temporal misalignment when one of the scales is the sum or average of the other by using the properties of the multivariate normal distribution. Inference is performed under the Bayesian framework, and uncertainty about unknown quantities is naturally accounted for. The proposed model is fitted to data simulated from different spatio‐temporal structures to check if the proposed inference procedure recovers the true values of the parameters used to generate the data. The motivating example consists of measurements of total pollen concentration across Toronto, Canada. The data were recorded daily for some sites and weekly for others. The proposed model estimates the daily measurements at sites where only weekly data was recorded and shows how the temporal aggregation of the measurements affects the associations with different covariates.
Gallium indium nitrate doped PbS and MoS2 with ligands based photovoltaic cell structure for enhanced efficiency incorporating transformer based module with hydro Ferron chloride thermal sub cell cooling system
Authors: Kumar Amarendra , Alam Md Irshad
Published: July 2023

A solar photovoltaic cell that is efficient and produces more power while taking up less area by absorbing high‐light energy. To improve the efficiency of the photovoltaic cell (PV), recombination technique is used in the absorption layers of the solar cell. The existing recombination techniques developed by the absorbers have weak interconnectivity, which may leads to defects, and efficiency is reduced due to the high resistance in diffusion length. So, “GNI‐doped PbS and MoS2 with ligands‐based PV structure” is proposed to improve the interconnection between the layers of the Solar cell. Here, gallium nitride (GaN) and indium nitride (InN) act as anode and cathode in first and third layer, to get the better interconnection by interchanging oxide ions where the Gallium Indium nitrate used as semiconductor. To improve the durability, second layer is doped with Bi3+ with Fe3+, which has a rhombohedral perovskite structure. Molybdenum di‐Sulfide (MoS2) is used in the last layer to improve light absorption. To maintain surface passivation, transformer‐based PV module with an HFC Thermal sub cell is employed in which Hydro Ferron chloride combined with Nano graphene platelets is to avoid Potential Induced Degradation and transformers to eliminate the stray current. While implementing, with very low cost the power conversion efficiency of proposed design increased upto 17%.
Cellular antioxidant activity measurement: An alternative to chemical antioxidant methods?
Authors: Granato Daniel
Published: July 2023

Oxidative stress occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) overpasses their degradation and buffering by endogenous antioxidants and those derived from the diet (exogenous antioxidants). In food science and nutrition, assessing antioxidant activity relies on chemical reactions—chemical test‐tube assays—and human and murine cell lines. Usually, an ROS inductor, such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or peroxyl radicals (ROO•), is used to induce oxidation. Some biomarkers related to endogenous protection (i.e., catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase), oxidation‐end products (i.e., malondialdehyde), and intracellular ROS generation can be quantitatively determined. Herein, some insights into using human cell lines and related biomarkers are described, and the downsides of using chemical antioxidant assays are explained. In conclusion, research on antioxidants should be based on using relevant human cell cultures. In contrast, chemical antioxidant assays should be limited to an initial screening as their physiological importance is negligible.
Pharmacological effect of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach extracts against lead‐induced toxicity in rats
Authors: Rasool Naeem , Omer Muhammad Ovais , Javeed Aqeel , Nawaz Muhammad , Imran Muhammad , Hussain Muzzamal , Mushtaq Zarina , AL Jbawi Entessar
Published: July 2023

Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach (Papilionaceae) is a medicinal plant, cultivated in northern areas of Pakistan. The consumption of trace minerals (lead) is very toxic to the vital organs of the body, therefore the overcome of these minerals is very necessary. In this regard, this study aimed to assess the potential pharmacological effect of aqueous and ethanolic extract of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach against pb‐induced oxidative stress, histological changes in Pb‐induced rats' liver and kidney, and anti‐inflammatory effect. The metal concentrations in liver and kidney homogenates were measured through atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The antioxidant activity was measured through DPPH and FRAP assay. Pb concentrations were significantly higher in liver and kidney homogenates after injection of Pb acetate was given intraperitoneally (45.2 ± 6.8 and 58.8 ± 7.9, respectively; p < .0001). The level of Pb in liver and kidney homogenates was significantly reduced by aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach. The Pb + Aq‐600 mg/kg‐treated rats exhibited a protective effect on hepatocytes cells against Pb‐induced liver injury and restored the cells of the kidney. Pb + Aq‐600 mg/kg showed higher antioxidant activity as compared to other treated groups. The highest decreased MDA level was found in liver and kidney homogenate of Pb + Aq‐600 mg/kg rats (11.2 ± 1.51 nmol/mg; p < .001) and GSH and CAT levels tended to normal after treatment of Pb + Aq‐600 mg/kg in rats. The ALAD, ALT, AST, and ALP level were enhanced and tended to be normal after the Aq‐400 and Aq‐600 mg/kg treatment in Pb‐exposed rats. The result showed that 600 mg/kg Aq + Pb exhibited significant (p < .001) anti‐inflammatory activity. The findings of this study concluded that treatment of the aqueous extract of Argyrolobium roseum (Camb.) Jaub & Spach reduces the renal and hepatic damage in Pb‐induced rats and it also decreases oxidative stress via improving antioxidant components.
Fabrication of green colorimetric smart packaging based on basil seed gum/chitosan/red cabbage anthocyanin for real‐time monitoring of fish freshness
Authors: Nadi Maryam , Razavi Seyed Mohammad Ali , Shahrampour Dina
Published: July 2023

Novel green intelligent films based on basil seed gum (BSG)/chitosan containing red cabbage extract (RCA) (0, 2.5, 5, and 10, % (v/v)) as a colorimetric indicator for food freshness detection were fabricated by casting method. The physicochemical, barrier, mechanical, and antioxidant characteristics, as well as sensitivity to pH and ammonia gas of smart edible packaging films, were investigated. The interaction of anthocyanin extract as a natural dye with biopolymers in films characterized by FTIR spectroscopy and SEM images revealed their suitable compatibility. The film with maximum anthocyanin content (10% (v/v)) appeared robust color changes against various pH and ammonia gas levels. The color of indicator films when exposed to alkaline, neutral and acidic buffers are indicated with green, blue, and red colors, respectively. The DPPH radical scavenging activity of smart BSG/chitosan films improved from 23% to 90.32% with increasing RCA content from 2.5 to 10% (v/v). Generally, the incorporation of RCA in film structure enhanced their solubility, WVP, ΔE, turbidity, and flexibility, and reduced tensile strength. The observations successfully confirmed the efficacy of pH‐sensitive indicator smart film based on BSG/chitosan for evaluation of fish spoilage during storage.
European experience with the Afirma Gene Expression Classifier for indeterminate thyroid nodules: A clinical utility study in the Netherlands
Authors: Lončar Ivona , van Velsen Evert F. S. , Massolt Elske T. , van Kemenade Folkert J. , van Engen‐van Grunsven Adriana C. H. , van Hemel Bettien M. , van Nederveen Francien H. , Netea‐Maier Romana , Links Thera P. , Peeters Robin P. , van Ginhoven Tessa M.
Published: July 2023

Background

The Gene Expression Classifier (GEC) and Genomic Sequencing Classifier (GSC) were developed to improve risk stratification of indeterminate nodules. Our aim was to assess the clinical utility in a European population with restrictive diagnostic workup.

Methods

Clinical utility of the GEC was assessed in a prospective multicenter cohort of 68 indeterminate nodules. Diagnostic surgical rates for Bethesda III and IV nodules were compared to a historical cohort of 171 indeterminate nodules. Samples were post hoc tested with the GSC.

Results

The GEC classified 26% as benign. Surgical rates between the prospective and historical cohort did not differ (72.1% vs. 76.6%). The GSC classified 59% as benign, but misclassified six malignant lesions as benign.

Conclusion

Implementation of GEC in management of indeterminate nodules in a European country with restrictive diagnostic workup is currently not supported, especially in oncocytic nodules. Prospective studies with the GSC in European countries are needed to determine the clinical utility.
Off/on Switching of Electric Current as a Strategy for One‐Pot Synthesis of Bromoarylpyridines by Cross‐Coupling/ C−H Bromination
Authors: Hirota Yamato , Fujie Takaya , Kochi Takuya , Kakiuchi Fumitoshi
Published: July 2023

An “OFF/ON” electric current switching protocol was developed as a new strategy for one‐pot organic synthesis. Suzuki‐Miyaura coupling of 2‐bromopyridines with arylboronic acids in an electrochemical cell was performed without applying an electric current, and subsequently, the Pd‐catalyzed electrochemical C−H bromination was conducted using the already‐present Pd catalyst to obtain 2‐(2‐bromoaryl)pyridines as products. The one‐pot synthesis of bromoarenes can also be achieved without adding an external Br source in the second step. Furthermore, an OFF/ON/OFF two‐times switching protocol also realized the formation of an N‐containing teraryl derivative.
Peripartum hysterectomy: A 9‐year population‐based study in Slovakia
Authors: Adamec Adam , Vargova Maria , Kristufkova Alexandra , Niznanska Zuzana , Korbel Miroslav
Published: July 2023

Objective

To assess the incidence of peripartum hysterectomy (PH) in Slovakia. Additionally, we wanted to describe reasons for the procedure, associated clinical circumstances, and complications.

Methods

This was a descriptive, population‐based study among women who underwent PH in Slovakia between January 2012 and December 2020. Peripartum hysterectomy was defined as surgical removal of the uterus from the peripartum period up to 42 days postpartum. Data were obtained retrospectively from the standardized questionnaires that are completed in Slovakia for any case of PH. The background population consisted of all other women who delivered during the study period.

Results

Of the 436 136 births, there were 397 cases of PH, giving an incidence of 0.91 per 1000 births. It was higher with advanced maternal age, multiparity, multiple pregnancies, and cesarean deliveries. The main reasons for the procedure were placental pathologies and uterine atony in 52.9% and 33.0%, respectively. A total of 150 (37.8%) women required admission to an intensive care unit. The mortality rate was 1.5%.

Conclusion

The incidence of PH is relatively high in Slovakia when compared with other European countries, highlighting the need to improve prenatal diagnosis of morbidly adherent placenta and the management of peripartum hemorrhage.
Using a Machine Learning Tool to Support High‐Stakes Decisions in Child Protection
Authors: Vaithianathan Rhema , Benavides‐Prado Diana , Dalton Erin , Chouldechova Alexandra , Putnam‐Hornstein Emily
Published: July 2023

Machine learning decision support tools have become popular in a range of social domains including healthcare, criminal justice, and child welfare. But the design of these tools often fails to consider the potentially complex interactions that happen between the tools and humans. This lack of human‐centered design is one reason that so few tools are actually deployed, and even if they are, struggle to achieve impact. In this article we present the example of the Allegheny Family Screening Tool, a machine learning model used since 2016 to support hotline screening of child maltreatment referrals. We describe aspects of human‐centered design that contributed to the successful deployment of this tool, including agency leadership and ownership, transparency by design, ethical oversight, community engagement, and social license. Finally, we identify potential next‐steps to encourage greater integration of human‐centered design into the development and implementation of machine learning decision support tools.