bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cone‐Shaped Electrodes for Capacitive Tactile Sensors with High Sensitivity and Broad Linearity Range
Authors: Chen Liting , Zheng Bingying , Ye Jinhua , Wu Haibin
Published: September 2023

Flexible tactile sensors with high sensitivity typically suffer from a dramatically reduces pressure resolution with increasing pressure, resulting in narrow linear ranges and limited application scenarios. Herein, a capacitive tactile sensor based on cone‐shaped electrodes (CSE) that can maintain high sensitivity over a broad linearity range is proposed. The linear response comes from the novel sensing mechanism based on the change in the facing electrode area and the rational design of the conical architecture. Finite element analysis (FEA) confirms that the interfacial contact area between the elastic electrodes and the dielectric layer can respond linearly to pressure over a broad spectrum. Based on this strategy, the fabricated sensors perform a high sensitivity (0.23 kPa−1) and superior linearity (R2 = 0.999) across a wide pressure range of up to 130 kPa. The sensors demonstrate several key features, such as good repeatability, fast response speed, low detection limit, and high durability. These attributes enable the successful use of the sensors for monitoring artery pulses and providing weighting capabilities to robots, showing promising potential for applications in daily health monitoring and human‐machine interaction.
Synthesis of Furfural Sulfides and 4‐Alkylthiopyridines via Heterocyclization of α‐Acyl Ketene Dithioacetals
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxuan , Chang Jian , Chen Chong , Zhai Qianqian , Li Shengnan , Song Xiaoning
Published: September 2023

Herein, we devised a synthetic approach for skeletally diversified furfuryl sulfides and 4‐alkylthiopyridines involving the heterocyclization of flexible α‐acyl ketene dithioacetals, enabled by cooperative Pd/Cu catalysis. The overall transformation was initiated by acyl‐directed desulfurative Sonogashira coupling, which was proposed as the key step in surmounting the competitive carbothiolation pathway. This step was followed by 1,6‐addition of either a S‐ or N‐nucleophile and intramolecular cyclization. Notably, the two different annulation reactions featured readily accessible starting materials, selective cleavage and reassembly of multiple chemical bonds, broad functional group tolerance, pharmacologically significant heterocyclic products with high regio‐ and chemoselectivities, and high atom economy.
Photocatalytic N‐Alkylation of NH‐Sulfoximines via Anti‐Markovnikov Hydroamination of Alkenes
Authors: Wang Cong , Jia Tiezheng
Published: September 2023

Sulfoximines, the isoelectronic with sulfones, represent a class of alternative and intriguing motifs in both discovery program and agrochemistry. N‐Alkylation on imines could significantly improve their bioactivities, but the lack of general method has hindered their further uptake by medicinal chemistry and drug development. Herein, we present a mild photocatalytic anti‐Markovnikov hydroamination of alkenes to construct N‐alkylated sulfoximines with broad substrate tolerance on primary, secondary and tertiary alkyl substituents as well as a diverse range of sulfoximines. The mechanistic studies support the photocatalytic pathway, and demonstrate that the alkene radical cation rather than the iminium radical serves as the key intermediate in the transformation.
Photoredox‐Catalyzed Trifunctionalization of 5‐Heteroaryl‐Substituted 1‐Hexenes or 5‐hexenenitriles via Remote Heteroaryl or Cyano Group Migration
Authors: Guo Kang
Published: September 2023

A photoredox‐catalyzed trifunctionalization of 5‐heteroaryl‐substituted 1‐hexenes via remote heteroaryl migration and a photoredox‐catalyzed trifunctionalization of 5‐hexenenitriles via cyano migration are reported. This protocol provides access to a broad scope of CFnR‐containing ketones with high molecular complexity and functional group diversity. The reaction features mild conditions and high chemo‐ and regioselectivities. The success of gram‐scale reactions and the versatility of products in derivative synthesis illustrated the potential value of this transformation in synthetic chemistry.
Giant Piezoelectric Output and Stability Enhancement in Piezopolymer Composites with Liquid Metal Nanofillers
Authors: Liu Jingyan , Zeng Shi , Zhang Mingrui , Xiong Juan , Gu Haoshuang , Wang Zhao , Hu Yongming , Zhang Xianghui , Du Yi , Ren Long
Published: September 2023

Integrating nanomaterials into the polymer matrix is an effective strategy to optimize the performance of polymer‐based piezoelectric devices. Nevertheless, the trade‐off between the output enhancement and stability maintenance of piezoelectric composites usually leads to an unsatisfied overall performance for the high‐strength operation of devices. Here, by setting liquid metal (LM) nanodroplets as the nanofillers in a poly(vinylidene difluoride) (PVDF) matrix, the as‐formed liquid‐solid/conductive‐dielectric interfaces significantly promote the piezoelectric output and the reliability of this piezoelectric composite. A giant performance improvement featured is obtained with, nearly 1000% boosting on the output voltage (as high as 212 V), 270% increment on the piezoelectric coefficient (d33∼51.1 pC N−1) and long‐term reliability on both structure and output (over 36 000 cycles). The design of a novel heterogenous interface with both mechanical matching and electric coupling can be the new orientation for developing high performance piezoelectric composite‐based devices.
High‐Performance Binary All‐Polymer Solar Cells with Efficiency Over 18.3% Enabled by Tuning Phase Transition Kinetics
Authors: Bi Pengqing , Zhang Tao , Cui Yong , Wang Jianqiu , Qiao Jiawei , Xian Kaihu , Chua Xian Wei , Chen Zhihao , Goh Wei Peng , Ye Long , Hao Xiaotao , Hou Jianhui , Yang Le
Published: September 2023

All‐polymer solar cells (All‐PSCs) are considered to be the most promising candidates for realizing efficient and stable organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the challenge of controlling morphology has hindered the performance of All‐PSCs. Compared to small molecule acceptors, polymer acceptors play a more crucial role in obtaining an ideal morphology for All‐PSCs. The molecular weight of polymer acceptors is one of the key factors determining the morphological and mechanical properties as well as the interactions with donors. Herein, by using a monomer of PYIT (PYIT1) and PYITs with low (PYIT2) and high (PYIT3) molecular weights, the impact of molecular weight of the polymer acceptor is systematically investigated on the phase transition process, morphological, and photovoltaic properties. It is found that tuning the molecular weight effectively regulates the phase transition process of the polymer acceptor and its interaction with the polymer donor. This induces significant effects on the aggregation behaviors of the polymers. Appropriate molecular weight polymer acceptors can facilitate favorable phase separation morphology. With PBQx‐Cl as the donor and PYIT2 as acceptor, a high‐performance binary All‐PSC is achieved with an efficiency of 18.39%. This study provides deep insights into the performance enhancement of All‐PSCs through rational polymer acceptor design.
Boosting Active Species Ru‐O‐Zr/Ce Construction at the Interface of Phase‐Transformed Zirconia‐Ceria Isomerism toward Advanced Catalytic Cathodes for Li‐CO2 Batteries
Authors: Deng Qinghua , Yang Yong , Yin Kai , Yi Jiachen , Zhou Yuming , Zhang Yiwei
Published: September 2023

Optimized structural support widely affects the improvement of interface structure, promoting the quantity and quality of active species simultaneously for Lithium battery cathodes. Herein, a highly dispersed and anchored active species at the interface of the Zr/CeO2(111) are achieved and are used for advanced Li‐CO2 batteries cathodes. Benefiting from the abundant Ru‐O‐Zr/Ce site, the CO2 adsorption and reduction is enhanced by the migration of the electron density in the C═O of CO2 to Ru. The established Li‐CO2 batteries exhibit excellent activity of 21 075 mAh g−1 and outstanding durability of over 167 cycles as well as low overpotential with 1.03 V at a discharge/recharge rate of 100 mA g−1. The executed experiments combined with DFT calculations unveil that the cubic bimetallic oxide supported Ru exhibits optimized electronic structure at the interface compared to the monoclinic or tetragonal monometallic oxide support, promoting the increase of discharge voltage (from ≈2.5 to 2.73 V). Fundamentally, the redistribution of electron density on the active species Ru‐O‐Zr/Ce are intrinsic to above positive change, which are promoted by the synergistic interaction of Zr and Ce. This investigation provides an approach for the advancement of Li‐CO2 batteries catalytic cathodes and for the promotion of “carbon neutral” goals.
Composite Lithium Metal Structure to Mitigate Pulverization and Enable Long‐Life Batteries
Authors: Yu Sicen , Wang Shen , Miao Qiushi , Hui Zeyu , Hyun Gayea , Holoubek John , Yu Xiaolu , Gao Junwei , Liu Ping
Published: September 2023

In lithium metal batteries, non‐uniform stripping of lithium results in pit formation, which promotes subsequent non‐uniform, dendritic deposition. This viscous cycle leads to pulverization of lithium which promotes cell shorting or capacity degradation, symptoms further exaggerated by high electrode areal loading and lean electrolytes. To address this challenge, a composite lithium metal anode is engineered that contains uniformly distributed, nanometer‐sized carbon particles. This composite lithium is shown to strip more uniformly since the growth of non‐uniform pits is intercepted by the carbon particles. This mechanism is corroborated by a continuum electrochemical model. Subsequent lithium deposition on carbon particles is also found to be more uniform than on the surface with irregular pits. Notably, the pulverization rate of composite lithium is 26 times slower than that of commercial lithium. Moreover, in a Li‐S battery with sulfurized polyacrylonitrile cathode, the use of the composite anode extends the cycle life by three times when the areal capacity is 8 mAh cm−2. The approach of using an engineered lithium composite structure to address challenges during both stripping and plating can inform future designs of lithium metal anodes for high areal capacity operations.
Dinuclear Gold‐Catalyzed para‐Selective C−H Arylation of Undirected Arenes by Noncovalent Interactions
Authors: Liu Duan‐Yang , Han Jie , Liu Kai , Cheng Yaohang , Tan Hairen , Yang Xiaoliang , Li Weipeng , Xie Jin
Published: September 2023

The regioselectivity of C−H functionalization is commonly achieved by directing groups, electronic factors, or steric hindrance, which facilitate the identification of reaction sites. However, such strategies are less effective for reactants such as simple monofluoroarenes due to their relatively low reactivity and the modest steric demands of the fluorine atom. Herein, we present an undirected gold‐catalyzed para‐C−H arylation of a wide array of monofluoroarenes using air‐stable aryl silanes and germanes at room temperature. A high para‐regioselectivity (up to 98 : 2) can be realized by utilizing a dinuclear dppm(AuOTs)2 (dppm=bis(diphenylphosphino)methane) as the catalyst and hexafluorobenzene as the solvent. This provides a general and practical protocol for the concise construction of structurally diverse para‐arylated monofluoroarenes through C−H activation manner. It features excellent functional group tolerance and a broad substrate scope (>80 examples). Besides, this strategy is also robust for other simple monosubstituted arenes and heteroarenes. Our mechanistic studies and theoretical calculations suggest that para‐C−H selectivity arises from highly electrophilic and structurally flexible dinuclear Ar−Au(III)−Au(I) species, coupled with noncovalent interaction induced by hexafluorobenzene.
Characterization of alginate from Antarctic Himantothallus grandifolius (Phaeophyceae) and preparation of polyelectrolyte complexes with chitosan
Authors: Candia Carolina , Gallardo‐Moya Daniel , Guerrero Juan , Leal David , Mansilla Andrés , Martínez‐Gómez Fabián , Matsuhiro Betty , Yáñez‐S Mauricio
Published: September 2023

Hydrogels are three‐dimensional polymeric materials with applications in various areas such as biomedicine, tissue engineering, pollutant capture systems, and so forth. However, its application is limited due to the reproducibility of its properties. Factors such as the composition of the constituents, the type of union between the polymer chains, and the crosslinking time play a crucial role in ensuring its reproducibility. In this study, the objective is to prepare a matrix with well‐defined properties that ensure controlled release processes. Treatment of Himantothallus grandifolius with Na2CO3 aqueous solution afforded in 18.9% yield alkaline extract. Hydrogels were prepared by ionic complexation of alginate from H. grandifolius, and polyguluronate enriched alginate from Desmarestia ligulata with chitosan stabilized by immersion in 0.1 M CaCl2 solution; better swelling ratio in water was found for hydrogels with low molecular weight chitosan (MW 125,000 g/mol) than those with medium molecular weight chitosan (MW450,000–500,000 g/mol). Liberation of the model drug metformin hydrochloride from alginates: chitosan complexes (3:1) at pH 1.5 was especially low for hydrogel from H. grandifolius during the first 2 h; 70% of metformin was released at pH 6.5 after 24 h. This polyelectrolyte complex constitutes a good material for potential application in biomedicine considering its cationic and anionic characteristics.
Dual Pd‐Acid Sites Confined in a Hierarchical Core‐Shell Structure for Hydrogenation of Nitrobenzene
Authors: Wang Yi‐Tian , Wu Si‐Ming , Luo Guo‐Qiang , Xiao Shi‐Tian , Pu Fu‐Fei , Wang Li‐Ying , Chang Gang‐Gang , Tian Ge , Yang Xiao‐Yu
Published: September 2023

A core‐shell structured Pd@TS‐1@meso‐SiO2 catalyst with confined Pd nanometals has been fabricated by one‐pot synthesis, impregnation method and sol‐gel method. With the promotion of acid sites and protection of mesoporous silica shell, Pd@TS‐1@meso‐SiO2 shows higher activity than commercial comparison and higher stability than sample without mesoporous silica shell in the hydrogenation of nitrobenzene. The schematic illustration of the synergy effect is also proposed.
Metabolomics provides insights into acceleration of bone healing in fractured patients with traumatic brain injuries
Authors: Xia Demeng , Wu Rui , Xue Qian , Jiang Gehan , Xu Shuogui
Published: September 2023

While clinical surveys have frequently reported that patients with traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and comorbidities experience faster healing, the underlying mechanisms have been investigated but remain unclear. As a comprehensive comparison and analysis of the metabolic characteristics of these two pathologies have not been undertaken, we developed a rat model of fracture and TBI and collected serum samples for metabolomic analysis using ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole time‐of‐flight MS (UHPLC–Q‐TOF/MS). In total, we identified 40 differential metabolites and uncovered related pathways and potential mechanisms, including aminoacyl‐transfer RNA biosynthesis; differential amino acids such as leucine, cholylhistidine, aspartyl‐lysine; and related lipid metabolism, and discussed their impacts on bone formation in detail. This study highlights that the UHPLC–Q‐TOF/MS–based metabolomics approach offers a better understanding of the metabolic links between TBI and accelerated bone recovery.
Associations between depression and cancer risk among patients with diabetes mellitus: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Shi‐Heng Wang , Hsu Le‐Yin , Lin Mei‐Chen , Wu Chi‐Shin
Published: September 2023

Background

The co‐occurrence of depression and diabetes mellitus has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer. This study aimed to investigate whether depression further amplifies the risk of cancer among individuals with diabetes.

Methods

This population‐based matched cohort study utilized Taiwan's National Health Insurance claims database. A total of 85,489 newly diagnosed diabetic patients with depressive disorders were selected, along with 427,445 comparison subjects. The matching process involved age, sex, and the calendar year of diabetes onset. The average follow‐up duration for the two cohorts was 6.4 and 6.5 years, respectively. The primary outcome of interest was the occurrence of overall cancer or cancer at specific anatomical sites.

Results

The adjusted hazard ratios for overall cancer incidence were 1.08 (95% CI, 1.05–1.11). For site‐specific cancers, depression exhibited significant associations with oropharyngeal, esophageal, liver, gynecological, prostate, kidney, and hematologic malignancies among patients with diabetes. Notably, a severity‐response relationship was observed, indicating that patients with recurrent episodes of major depressive disorders exhibited a higher incidence of cancer compared to those diagnosed with dysthymia or depressive disorder not otherwise specified. Furthermore, the strength of the association between depression and cancer risk was more pronounced among younger patients with diabetes as opposed to older adults. However, no significant relationship was observed between adherence to antidepressant treatment and cancer risk.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicate a significant association between depression and an elevated risk of cancer among individuals diagnosed with diabetes. Future investigations should replicate our findings, explore the effects of pharmacological and non‐pharmacological treatments on cancer risk, and identify the underlying mechanisms.
Hyper IgE syndrome‐related disease treated with dupilumab: A case report
Authors: Kao Andrew S. , Deirawan Hany , Poowuttikul Pavadee , Daveluy Steven
Published: September 2023

Phosphoglucomutase 3 (PGM3) catalyzes the glycosylation of immune system precursor proteins. Its impairment leads to severe infections and other developmental, musculoskeletal, and nervous system defects. We present a case of a 2‐month‐old female patient with recurrent infections and diffuse eczematous dermatitis recalcitrant to corticosteroids. A next‐generation sequencing NGS gene panel for inherited immune dysfunction syndromes revealed multiple variants of unknown significance in key immune regulators, specifically heterozygous mutation c.337C⟩G (p.Pro113Ala) on exon 4 of PGM3 as a novel variant in the PGM3 associated diseases. Off‐label use of dupilumab resulted in rapid improvement.
Arteriovenous thrombosis, a complication of induction therapy with all‐trans retinoic acid for acute promyelocytic leukemia: A case report
Authors: Tondro Anamag Farhad , Hashemi Negin , Sanaat Zohreh , Khadivi Heris Hengameh , Moslemi Mohammadreza
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

We report a case of arterial and venous thrombosis during induction therapy. This case emphasizes considering some degree of caution for thrombotic events in APL patients which was represented in our case as abdominal pain. Rapid initiation of anticoagulation and preventive measures is suggested for better management of the condition.
Detection of the storage time of light bruises in yellow peaches based on spectrum and texture features of hyperspectral image
Authors: Li Bin , Zou Ji‐ping , Yin Hai , Liu Yan‐de , Zhang Feng , Ou‐yang Ai‐guo
Published: September 2023

Yellow peaches are soft, and they bruise easily; the bruised areas of them are prone to breed bacteria and molds, so the consumption and the safety of related products of yellow peaches are affected by the difference in the storage time of light bruises in them. In order to accurately distinguish of the storage time of light bruises in yellow peaches, the spectra of the sample bruised region were combined with texture features extracted based on gray‐level co‐occurrence matrix (GLCM), and the deep learning algorithm was used for modeling. A total of 80 samples were prepared in the experiment, and the hyperspectral images of them were acquired at four time periods (2, 8, 24, and 48 h), and the reflection spectral data as well as the texture features of the bruised samples were extracted from the hyperspectral images. First, the random forest (RF) and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) models were built based on spectral, texture, and spectral features combined with texture features (Feature Fusion 1), respectively, and the best model discrimination was the RF model under Feature Fusion 1, with an overall accuracy of 98.33%. In order to remove the redundant information of spectrum, the UVE and CARS algorithms were used to screen the normalized spectral feature data, and then, the texture features were combined again (Feature Fusion 2), and the RF and XGBoost models were built. The results show that the optimal model for distinguishing the storage time of yellow peaches after bruising is the RF model under Feature Fusion 2 (CARS), with an overall accuracy of 98.33%. In summary, this study shows that spectral features combined with texture features can be used to effectively improve the model's discrimination of storage time after bruising of yellow peaches, and it also provides a certain theoretical basis for hyperspectral imaging technology to discriminate storage time after bruising of fruits.
Graphene Oxide Nanosheets Hamper Glutamate Mediated Excitotoxicity and Protect Neuronal Survival In An In vitro Stroke Model
Authors: Tortella Lorenza , Santini Irene , Lozano Neus , Kostarelos Kostas , Cellot Giada , Ballerini Laura
Published: September 2023

Small graphene oxide (s‐GO) nanosheets reversibly downregulate central nervous system (CNS) excitatory synapses, with potential developments as future therapeutic tools to treat neuro‐disorders characterized by altered glutamatergic transmission. Excitotoxicity, namely cell death triggered by exceeding ambient glutamate fueling over‐activation of excitatory synapses, is a pathogenic mechanism shared by several neural diseases, from ischemic stroke to neurodegenerative disorders. In this work, CNS cultures were exposed to oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD) to mimic ischemic stroke in vitro, and it is show that the delivery of s‐GO following OGD, during the endogenous build‐up of secondary damage and excitotoxicity, improved neuronal survival. In a different paradigm, excitotoxicity cell damage was reproduced through exogenous glutamate application, and s‐GO co‐treatment protected neuronal integrity, potentially by directly downregulating the synaptic over‐activation brought about by exogenous glutamate. This proof‐of‐concept study suggests that s‐GO may find novel applications in therapeutic developments for treating excitotoxicity‐driven neural cell death.
Enantioselective Dearomative [4+2] Cycloaddition Reaction of 1‐Naphthols with In‐Situ Generated ortho‐Quinone Methides
Authors: Ranjan Sahoo Sushree , Gupta Khushboo , Singh Vinod K.
Published: September 2023

We disclose a catalytic, enantioselective dearomative reaction of non‐functionalized 1‐naphthols, which poses a synthetic challenge to organic chemists because of the relative ease of rearomatization via the elimination of a proton. In this work, the direct dearomatization of non‐functionalized 1‐naphthols was achieved through a chiral phosphoric acid (CPA) catalyzed enantioselective dearomative [4+2] cycloaddition reaction with in‐situ generated ortho‐quinone methides (o‐QMs). The reported convergent method allows the use of readily available simple 1‐naphthols without pre‐functionalization, furnishing a variety of naphthopyran derivatives in good yields (up to 96 %) and moderate to excellent enantioselectivities (up to >99 % ee) under mild reaction conditions. The observed regio‐, diastereo‐, and enantioselectivities are the keys to the success of the current strategy utilizing o‐QM as a diene surrogates, in combination with CPA catalysis.
Structural and Chemical Properties of NiOx Thin Films: Oxygen Vacancy Formation in O2 Atmosphere
Authors: Blume Raoul , Calvet Wolfram , Ghafari Aliakbar , Mayer Thomas , Knop‐Gericke Axel , Schlögl Robert
Published: September 2023

NiOx films on Si(111) were put in contact with oxygen at elevated temperatures. During heating and cooling in oxygen atmosphere Near Ambient Pressure (NAP)‐XPS and ‐XAS and work function (WF) measurements reveal the creation and replenishing of oxygen vacancies in dependence of temperature. Oxygen vacancies manifest themselves as a distinct O1s feature at 528.9 eV on the low binding energy side of the main NiO peak as well as by a distinct deviation of the Ni2p3/2 spectral features from the typical NiO spectra. DFT calculations reveal that the presence of oxygen vacancies leads to a charge redistribution and altered bond lengths of the atoms surrounding the vacancies causing the observed spectral changes. Furthermore, we observed that a broadening of the lowest energy peak in the O K‐edge spectra can be attributed to oxygen vacancies. In the presence of oxygen vacancies, the WF is lowered by 0.1 eV.
Photo‐Electro‐Biochemical H2 Production Using the Carbon Material‐Based Cathode Combined with Genetically Engineered Escherichia coli Whole‐Cell Biocatalysis
Authors: Honda Yuki , Yuki Risa , Hamakawa Reina , Fujii Hiroshi
Published: September 2023

Abio/bio hybrids, which incorporate biocatalysts that promote efficient and selective material conversions under mild conditions into existing catalytic reactions, have attracted considerable attention for developing new catalytic systems. This study constructed a H2‐forming biocathode based on a carbon material combined with whole‐cell biocatalysis of genetically‐engineered‐hydrogenase‐overproducing Escherichia coli for the photoelectrochemical water splitting for clean H2 production. Low‐cost and abundant carbon materials are generally not suitable for H2‐forming cathode due to their high overpotential for proton reduction; however, the combination of the reduction of an organic electron mediator on the carbon electrode and the H2 formation with the reduced mediator by the redox enzyme hydrogenase provides a H2‐forming cathodic reaction comparable to that of the noble metal electrode. The present study demonstrates that the recombinant E. coli whole cell can be employed as a part of the H2‐forming biocathode system, and the biocathode system wired with TiO2 photoanode can be a photoelectrochemical water‐splitting system without external voltage assistance under natural pH. The findings of this study expand the feasibility of applications of whole‐cell biocatalysis and contribute to obtaining solar‐to‐chemical conversions by abio/bio hybrid systems, especially for low‐cost, noble‐metal‐free, and clean H2 production.
Optimization and validation of in vivo flow cytometry chimeric antigen receptor T cell detection method using CD19his indirect staining
Authors: Zaninelli Silvia , Meli Cristian , Borleri Gianmaria , Quaroni Michele , Pavoni Chiara , Gaipa Giuseppe , Biondi Andrea , Introna Martino , Golay Josée , Rambaldi Alessandro , Rambaldi Benedetta
Published: September 2023

CD19‐targeted chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR‐T) cell therapy has shown unprecedented results in patients with B cell relapsed/refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (R/R‐ALL) and B cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas where no other curative options are available. In vivo monitoring of CAR‐T cell kinetics is fundamental to understand the correlation between CAR‐T cells expansion and persistence with treatment response and toxicity development. The aim of this study was to define a robust, sensitive, and universal method for CAR‐T cell detection using flow cytometry. We set up and compared with each other three assays for CD19 CAR‐T cell detection, all based on commercially available reagents. All methods used a recombinant human CD19 protein fragment recognized by the single‐chain variable fragment of the CAR construct. The two indirect staining assays (CD19his + APC‐conjugated antihistidine antibody and CD19bio + APC‐conjugated antibiotin antibody) showed better sensitivity and specificity compared with the direct staining with CD19‐FITC, and CD19his had a better cost‐effective profile. We validated CAR detection with CD19his with parallel quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction data and we could demonstrate a strong positive correlation. We also showed that CD19his staining can be easily included in a multicolor flow cytometry panel to achieve additional information about the cell phenotype of CAR‐T cell positive subpopulations. Finally, this method can be used for different anti‐CD19 CAR‐T cell products and for different sample sources. These data demonstrate that detection of CAR‐T cells by CD19his flow cytometry staining is a reliable, robust, and broadly applicable tool for in vivo monitoring of CAR‐T cells.
Thermal refuge use and parasitism: Spatiotemporal variation in anchor worm and lamprey wounds on Klamath redband trout
Authors: Ortega Jordan D. , Hahlbeck Nicholas , Derrickson Chris , Tinniswood William , Levi Taal , Armstrong Jonathan
Published: September 2023

Climate warming is increasing maximum temperatures during summer such that they more frequently exceed the thermal tolerances of ectotherms, particularly cold‐water fishes. One way that species can avoid thermal stress is by moving to thermal refuge habitats. Thermal refuges remain suitably cool during summer and are often complementary to foraging, spawning, and rearing habitats. Although the benefits associated with the thermal aspects of refuges are well studied, much less is known about potential costs associated with nonthermal aspects. For example, crowding of cold‐water fishes into seasonal refuge habitats could increase parasite loads and cause declines in fitness. We assessed lamprey and anchor worm parasitism in Upper Klamath Lake where adfluvial redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss newberrii) move to thermal refuge habitats during summer. We sampled trout in Upper Klamath Lake during spring and in adjacent thermal refuge habitats during summer. We also evaluated survival as a function of lamprey wounding using motion‐sensing radio tags. There was a fourfold decline in the number of lamprey wounds on trout upon the onset of thermal refuge use. In contrast, cases of severe anchor worm (≥20 sores) increased threefold during thermal refuge use. Survival in thermal refuge was not different for lamprey‐wounded trout than for trout that migrated to thermal refuge without lamprey wounds. We found that both parasites were absent in a lotic population of redband trout downstream that lacked access to thermal refuge. Thus, the effects of seasonal refuge use on parasite load varied depending on the parasite taxon considered and local habitat conditions, implying that managers will likely require empirical data for focal habitats and taxa to understand how parasitism affects thermal refuge use.
Ligand and Linkage Isomers of Bis(ethylthiocarbamato) Copper Complexes with Cyclic C6H8 Backbone Substituents: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antiproliferation Activity
Authors: Bajaj Kritika , Andres Sarah A. , Hofsommer Dillon T. , Chekwube Michael Okolocha , Mashuta Mark S. , Bates Paula J. , Buchanan Robert M. , Grapperhaus Craig A.
Published: September 2023

A series of isomeric bis(alkylthiocarbamate) copper complexes have been synthesized, characterized, and evaluated for antiproliferation activity. The complexes were derived from ligand isomers with 3‐methylpentyl (H2L2) and cyclohexyl (H2L3) backbone substituents, which each yield a pair of linkage isomers. The thermodynamic products CuL2a/3a have two imino N and two S donors resulting in three five‐member chelate rings (555 isomers). The kinetic isomers CuL2b/3b have one imino and one hydrazino N donor and two S donors resulting in four‐, six‐, and five‐member rings (465 isomers). The 555 isomers have more accessible CuII/I potentials (E1/2=−811/−768 mV vs. ferrocenium/ferrocene) and lower energy charge transfer bands than their 465 counterparts (E1/2=−923/‐854 mV). Antiproliferation activities were evaluated against the lung adenocarcinoma cell line (A549) and nonmalignant lung fibroblast cell line (IMR‐90) using the MTT assay. CuL2a was potent (A549EC50=0.080 μM) and selective (IMR‐90EC50/A549EC50=25) for A549. Its linkage isomer CuL2b had equivalent A549 activity, but lower selectivity (IMR‐90EC50/A549EC50=12.5). The isomers CuL3a and CuL3b were less potent with A549EC50 values of 1.9 and 0.19 M and less selective with IMR‐90EC50/A549EC50 ratios of 2.3 and 2.65, respectively. There was no correlation between reduction potential and A549 antiproliferation activity/selectivity.
Optimization of geometric parameters of hydraulic turbine runner in turbine mode based on ISMA and BPNN
Authors: Wang Yameng , Chen Jinbao , Zhang Lihong , Zheng Yang
Published: September 2023

The hydraulic turbine in turbine mode (TMHT) has significant advantages in residual energy recovery, but rapid optimization of its runner parameters has always been a challenge. To address this issue, the optimization algorithm ISMA‐BPNN is proposed based on the improved slime mold algorithm (ISMA) and back propagation neural network (BPNN). First, an efficiency characteristic neural network (ECNN) and a water head characteristic neural network (HCNN), which take the geometric parameters of the runner as input, and the efficiency and water head as outputs, respectively, are constructed by combining the orthogonal test‐based sample data, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and BPNN. Then, the slime mold algorithm is improved and the optimal runner geometric parameters are obtained based on the ISMA, ECNN, and HCNN, to achieve rapid optimization of the TMHT runner. Finally, the CFD‐based numerical calculation accuracy is verified through real machine tests, and the feasibility of the ISMA‐BPNN‐based rapid optimization strategy for TMHT performance is further verified through CFD numerical simulation.
An insight into a combined effect of backsheet and EVA encapsulant on field degradation of PV modules
Authors: Buerhop Claudia , Pickel Tobias , Stroyuk Oleksandr , Hauch Jens , Peters Ian Marius
Published: September 2023

Polymer components, in particular, backsheets (BSs) and ethylene‐vinyl acetate (EVA) encapsulants, play a crucial role in the degradation of commercial silicon photovoltaic (PV) modules. Degradation mechanisms depend in a complex way on the composition and properties of all involved polymers. In this study, we demonstrate that differences in the composition of EVA encapsulants, in particular, the presence of additives, such as UV blockers, affect the degradative processes in a decisive way, even for modules with identical BSs. A combination of spectral, imaging, and electrical characterization techniques applied in a mixed lab/field study showed that the field aging of PV modules with the same BSs and different encapsulant components results in the development of different degradation signs, such as insulation resistance loss, corrosion of metal interconnects, water ingress, oxidation depth in the encapsulant, and potential‐induced degradation, depending on the presence of additives in the encapsulant. The present study provides an outlook on the complex influence of polymer components on the lifetime and performance of silicon PV modules.
Characteristics of choice and satisfaction regarding the use of ultraviolet blockers in the golf population in Republic of Korea: A quantitative study
Authors: Choi Jiahn , Kwon Ki Han
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Korea's golf population surpassed 5 million (5.15 million) as of 2020 according to data analyzed by Shinhan Financial Investment in 2021. Due to the continuous increase in the golf population, it is necessary to study the use of specific sunscreens. Men and women are using sunscreen selective attributes based on the actual use and perception of sunscreens for life. A questionnaire survey was conducted for an analysis of the effect of product satisfaction.

Methods

Statistical processing of materials collected by the data analysis method is analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science WIN 25.0 statistical package program through the process of data coding and data cleaning.

Results

This exercise was done under 3–4 h of strong ultraviolet (UV) rays, so products that have ensured the durability of UV protection are needed. Among the demographic characteristics of the golf population, gender, age, academic background, occupation, marriage status, and monthly income were investigated, and it was confirmed that the information path of a particular product was affected by the choice of purchase, increasing satisfaction and repurchase.

Conclusion

An analysis of the paper's survey showed that men's awareness and interest in sunscreens increased. It is expected that differentiated strategies will be needed for products that match the actual conditions and aptitudes of the effective golf population.
Vitamin B12 effectiveness in the management of hospitalized COVID‐19 and its clinical outcomes and complications: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Erfani Zahra , Alizadeh Nafiseh , Faraji Neda , Teymouri Alireza
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Since 2019, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has spread and challenged the health care system for treatment which is mainly limited to supportive care. It is well‐established that malnutrition impedes the immunity in human bodies, and makes it vulnerable to microorganisms. Vitamin B12 is one of the agents that has critical roles in body systems. Thus, the following clinical trial was conducted to assess its possible therapeutic value in COVID‐19 patients.

Method

The present randomized clinical trial was carried out in Baharlou Hospital, and patients with confirmed COVID‐19 infection within 24 h of admission were included. We used quadruple blocks randomization to divide patients into groups of case and control. The case group received 1000 mg of vitamin B12, daily for 7 day while the patients in control group were administered distilled water as placebo. The studied outcomes were duration of hospitalization, need for intensive care unit (ICU), mechanical ventilation, mortality rate and laboratory findings. The statistical analysis was done via SPSS version 22.

Results

After implementing inclusion and exclusion criteria, 34 participants were included in the study, 20 of which were male. Serum levels of creatinine, LDH (Lactate dehydrogenase), Ferritin, and CRP (C‐reactive protein) had decreased in both groups. The improving changes of CRP, LDH, ferritin and creatinine was higher in case group. The increase of Alanine Transaminase and D‐dimer was higher in control group. however there was no statistically significant difference. More patients were admitted to ICU in the control group but the difference was not statistically significant. Duration of hospitalization did not differ statistically between the groups. No in hospital mortality has been recorded.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that vitamin B12 supplementation seem to have curative effect in COVID‐19. Nutritious diet is necessary for proper functioning of the immune system. Since malnutrition is associated with poor prognosis in COVID‐19 patients, and limited number of participants in this study, we suggest performing meta‐analysis on similar studies to reach reliable result.
Ayurveda for managing noncommunicable diseases in organisation for economic co‐operation and development: A qualitative systematic review protocol on experiences, perceptions, and perspectives of ayurvedic practitioners and patients
Authors: Egwumba Patricia , Nellums Laura , Bains Manpreet , Chattopadhyay Kaushik
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Ayurveda is a traditional medicine that originated in the Indian subcontinent, and its use remains widespread in the Indian subcontinent, especially for managing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). It is also becoming increasingly popular in the Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries as complementary and alternative medicine. Qualitative research studies have been conducted in various OECD countries to explore the experiences, perceptions, and perspectives of Ayurvedic practitioners and patients with NCDs regarding the usage of Ayurveda for managing these conditions. However, to date, no systematic review on this topic has been published. Therefore, this systematic review aims to synthesize the experiences, perceptions, and perspectives of Ayurvedic practitioners and patients with NCDs on the usage of Ayurveda for managing these conditions in OECD countries.

Methods

The systematic review will be conducted in accordance with the joanna briggs institute systematic review guideline on qualitative evidence. We will include qualitative research studies conducted among Ayurvedic practitioners or adult patients with NCDs in any OECD member country to explore experiences, perceptions, or perspectives regarding the usage of Ayurveda for managing NCDs. MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PsycINFO (Ovid), AMED, and Web of Science will be searched to identify published studies. EthOS and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses will be searched to identify unpublished studies. No date or language restrictions will be applied. Initially, a narrative synthesis will be conducted. Where possible, study findings will be pooled using the meta‐aggregation approach.
Coping with the COVID‐19 pandemic by strengthening immunity as a nonpharmaceutical intervention: A major public health challenge
Authors: Uddin Nizam , Acter Thamina , Rashid Md. Harun‐Ar , Chowdhury Akibul Islam , Jahan Effat Ara
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

The global Coronavirus‐2 outbreak has emerged as a significant threat to majority of individuals around the world. The most effective solution for addressing this viral outbreak is through vaccination. Simultaneously, the virus's mutation capabilities pose a potential risk to the effectiveness of both vaccines and, in certain instances, newly developed drugs. Conversely, the human body's immune system exhibits a robust ability to combat viral outbreaks with substantial confidence, as evidenced by the ratio of fatalities to affected individuals worldwide. Hence, an alternative strategy to mitigate this pandemic could involve enhancing the immune system's resilience.

Methods

The research objective of the review is to acquire a comprehensive understanding of the role of inflammation and immunity in COVID‐19. The pertinent literature concerning immune system functions, the impact of inflammation against viruses like SARS‐CoV‐2, and the connection between nutritional interventions, inflammation, and immunity was systematically explored.

Results

Enhancing immune function involves mitigating the impact of key factors that negatively influence the immune response. Strengthening the immune system against emerging diseases can be achieved through nonpharmaceutical measures such as maintaining a balanced nutrition, engaging in regular exercise, ensuring adequate sleep, and managing stress.

Conclusion

This review aims to convey the significance of and provide recommendations for immune‐strengthening strategies amidst the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic.
Longer cluster hanging time decreases the impact of grapevine red blotch disease in Vitis vinifera L. Merlot across two seasons
Authors: Girardello Raul C , Rumbaugh Arran , Perry Anji , Heymann Hildegarde , Brenneman Charles , Oberholster Anita
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Grapevine red blotch virus (GRBV) is a recently discovered virus and a major concern for the wine industry. Prior research indicated that GRBV delays grape ripening by reducing °Brix and anthocyanin concentrations in grapes from infected vines, resulting in higher ethanol concentrations in wines made from healthy fruit compared to diseased vines, which have an impact on sensory properties. In this study, infected fruit (Vitis vinifera L. Merlot) was sequentially harvested (in 2016 and 2017) and chaptalized (in 2017) to ameliorate the impact of GRBV on grape and final wine composition.

RESULTS

Chemical parameters including phenolic and volatile profiles of grapes and their subsequent wines were measured. Sensory properties were determined by descriptive analyses. Results demonstrated that GRBV decreased sugar accumulation and anthocyanin synthesis in grapes. Wines from GRBV grapes harvested at later ripening stage produced wines that were more similar chemically and sensorially to wines made from healthy fruit than to wines made from GRBV fruit harvested earlier.

CONCLUSION

A longer hang time of GRBV grapes is a potential strategy to mitigate the impacts of GRBV. However, chaptalization of diseased fruit must was inefficient at increasing similarities to wines made from healthy fruit. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Multiscale and multifunctional analysis of the coupling relationship between land use and desertification
Authors: Li Dajing , Xu Erqi , Zhang Hongqi
Published: September 2023

Understanding the interactions between land use and desertification in arid regions is crucial for both improving human well‐being and achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. However, there has been limited research on the effect of spatial scale on this relationship, especially within different land utilization function orientations. We used a revised coupling relationship index to analyze the complex interactions and dynamic changes between land use and desertification with multiscale and multifunctional oriented regions in the Tarim Basin, northwest China. Our results showed that the coupling relationship was more significant in small watersheds than in large watersheds. An inverted U‐shaped curve was observed for the coupling relationship with an increase in the proportion of cultivated land, which changed with the land utilization function orientations. The watersheds with a high proportion of unused land and a fragile ecological environment were dominated by negative coupling. Watersheds with roughly equal proportions of forest–grassland and cultivated land showed positive coupling and followed an inverted U‐shaped trend. Watersheds with a relatively high proportion of cultivated land may achieve a win–win situation with both the reclamation of cultivated land and the control of desertification. Our study proves the necessity of research about the coupling differences in different functional oriented regions and may also help to suggest action priorities to desertification control and ecological restoration.