bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Universal Source‐Template Route to Metal Selenides Implanting on 3D Carbon Nanoarchitecture: Cu2−xSe@3D‐CN with SeC Bonding for Advanced Na Storage
Authors: Yuan Jun , Yu Biao , Pan Duo , Hu Xiang , Chen Junxiang , Aminua Mujtaba , Liu Yangjie , Sheng LiangMei , Chen Yuhua , Wu Yongmin , Zhan Hongbing , Wen Zhenhai
Published: July 2023

The development of high‐performance sodium ion batteries (SIBs) is heavily relied on the exploration of the appropriate electrode material for Na+ storage, which ought to feature merits of high capacity, easy‐to‐handle synthesis, high conductivity, expedite mass transportation, and stable structure upon charging–discharging cycle. Herein, a universal source‐template method is reported to synthesize a variety of transition metal (e.g., V, Sb, W, Zn, Fe, Co, Ni, and Cu) selenides implanting on N doped 3D carbon nanoarchitecture hybrids (MmSen@3D‐CN) with powerful SeC bonding rivet. Benefiting from the superior architecture and potent SeC bonding between Cu2−xSe and N‐doped 3D carbon (3D‐CN), the Cu2−xSe@3D‐CN nanohybrids, as anode of SIBs, show high capacity, high‐rate capability, and long‐cycle durability, which can deliver a reversible capacity of as high as 386 mAh g−1, retain 219 mAh g−1 even at 10 A g−1, and run durably over thousands of charging–discharging cycles. The Cu2−xSe@3D‐CN as anode is also evaluated by developing a full SIB by coupling with the Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode, which can deliver high energy density and show excellent stability, shedding light on its potential in practical application.
Near‐Infrared Light‐Enhanced Generation of Hydroxyl Radical for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhang Qianqian , Li Yang , Jiang Chunhuan , Sun Wenbo , Tao Jingwei , Lu Lehui
Published: July 2023

Hydroxyl radical (•OH) as a highly oxidizing reactive oxygen species can induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in cancer treatment. However, high‐efficiency cancer immunotherapy is still a huge challenge due to the low •OH generation efficiency in the tumor microenvironment, resulting in insufficient immunogenicity and the poor immune response. Here, a near‐infrared (NIR) light‐enhanced •OH generation strategy is developed for cancer immunotherapy by using a copper‐based metal‐organic framework (Cu‐DBC) nanoplatform. With this strategy, the generation efficiency of •OH under NIR irradiation is increased 7.34 times than that without NIR irradiation, which induces robust ICD and immune response, thus leading to primary tumor elimination and the inhibition of distant tumor growth and tumor lung metastasis. Experimental results show that Cu‐DBC can induce •OH boosting through photothermal (PT)‐enhanced Cu‐catalytic Fenton‐like reaction and photocatalytic electron transfer under NIR light irradiation to amplify tumor ICD for immunotherapy.
Engineering Sub‐Nanometer Hafnia‐Based Ferroelectrics to Break the Scaling Relation for High‐Efficiency Piezocatalytic Water Splitting
Authors: Su Ran , Zhang Jiahui , Wong Vienna , Zhang Dawei , Yang Yong , Luo Zheng‐Dong , Wang Xiaojing , Wen Hui , Liu Yang , Seidel Jan , Yang Xiaolong , Pan Ying , Li Fa‐tang
Published: July 2023

Reversible control of ferroelectric polarization is essential to overcome the heterocatalytic kinetic limitation. This can be achieved by creating a surface with switchable electron density; however, owing to the rigidity of traditional ferroelectric oxides, achieving polarization reversal in piezocatalytic processes remains challenging. Herein, sub‐nanometer‐sized Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) nanowires with a polymer‐like flexibility are synthesized. Oxygen K‐edge X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and negative spherical aberration‐corrected transmission electron microscopy reveal an orthorhombic (Pca21) ferroelectric phase of the HZO sub‐nanometer wires (SNWs). The ferroelectric polarization of the flexible HZO SNWs can be easily switched by slight external vibration, resulting in dynamic modulation of the binding energy of adsorbates and thus breaking the “scaling relationship” during piezocatalysis. Consequently, the as‐synthesized ultrathin HZO nanowires display superb water‐splitting activity, with H2 production rate of 25687 µmol g−1 h−1 under 40 kHz ultrasonic vibration, which is 235 and 41 times higher than those of non‐ferroelectric hafnium oxides and rigid BaTiO3 nanoparticles, respectively. More strikingly, the hydrogen production rates can reach 5.2 µmol g−1 h−1 by addition of stirring exclusively.
Advances in Catalytic Asymmetric Construction of Quaternary Stereogenic Centers by Conjugate Addition to β,β‐Disubstituted Nitroalkenes
Authors: Paladhi Sushovan , Hyun Park Jin , Jana Barnali , Yong Bae Han , Eui Song Choong
Published: July 2023

Quaternary stereogenic centers are of great importance because of their prevalence in a series of bioactive natural products and pharmaceuticals. Although the catalytic asymmetric construction of these highly congested centers poses a formidable challenge, this field has been extensively explored in the past few decades, and several elegant strategies, such as the asymmetric conjugate addition to β,β‐disubstituted nitroalkenes, have been developed. The resultant β‐nitro quaternary stereocenters can be conveniently transformed into the corresponding β‐amino quaternary stereocenters commonly found in bioactive compounds. This review summarizes the recent advances in the construction of all‐carbon quaternary or hetero‐carbon quaternary stereocenters via metal‐catalyzed and organocatalyzed asymmetric conjugate addition to β,β‐disubstituted nitroalkenes, focusing on the scope, applications, and mechanisms of these reactions.
Reconfigurable Magnetic Liquid Building Blocks for Constructing Artificial Spinal Column Tissues
Authors: Luo Chao , Liu Xubo , Zhang Yifan , Dai Haoyu , Ci Hai , Mou Shan , Zhou Muran , Chen Lifeng , Wang Zhenxing , Russell Thomas P. , Sun Jiaming
Published: July 2023

All‐liquid molding can be used to transform a liquid into free‐form solid constructs, while maintaining internal fluidity. Traditional biological scaffolds, such as cured pre‐gels, are normally processed in solid state, sacrificing flowability and permeability. However, it is essential to maintain the fluidity of the scaffold to truly mimic the complexity and heterogeneity of natural human tissues. Here, this work molds an aqueous biomaterial ink into liquid building blocks with rigid shapes while preserving internal fluidity. The molded ink blocks for bone‐like vertebrae and cartilaginous‐intervertebral‐disc shapes, are magnetically manipulated to assemble into hierarchical structures as a scaffold for subsequent spinal column tissue growth. It is also possible to join separate ink blocks by interfacial coalescence, different from bridging solid blocks by interfacial fixation. Generally, aqueous biomaterial inks are molded into shapes with high fidelity by the interfacial jamming of alginate surfactants. The molded liquid blocks can be reconfigured using induced magnetic dipoles, that dictated the magnetic assembly behavior of liquid blocks. The implanted spinal column tissue exhibits a biocompatibility based on in vitro seeding and in vivo cultivating results, showing potential physiological function such as bending of the spinal column.
CpxA/R‐Controlled Nitroreductase Expression as Target for Combinatorial Therapy against Uropathogens by Promoting Reactive Oxygen Species Generation
Authors: Ren Hao , Zhong Zixing , Zhou Shuang , Wei Yiyang , Liang Yujiao , He Huiling , Zheng Zijian , Li Mengyuan , He Qian , Long Tengfei , Lian Xinlei , Liao Xiaoping , Liu Yahong , Sun Jian
Published: July 2023

The antibiotic resistances emerged in uropathogens lead to accumulative treatment failure and recurrent episodes of urinary tract infection (UTI), necessitating more innovative therapeutics to curb UTI before systematic infection. In the current study, the combination of amikacin and nitrofurantoin is found to synergistically eradicate Gram‐negative uropathogens in vitro and in vivo. The mechanistic analysis demonstrates that the amikacin, as an aminoglycoside, induced bacterial envelope stress by introducing mistranslated proteins, thereby constitutively activating the cpxA/R two‐component system (Cpx signaling). The activation of Cpx signaling stimulates the expression of bacterial major nitroreductases (nfsA/nfsB) through soxS/marA regulons. As a result, the CpxA/R‐dependent nitroreductases overexpression generates considerable quantity of lethal reactive intermediates via nitroreduction and promotes the prodrug activation of nitrofurantoin. As such, these actions together disrupt the bacterial cellular redox balance with excessively‐produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) as “Domino effect”, accelerating the clearance of uropathogens. Although aminoglycosides are used as proof‐of‐principle to elucidate the mechanism, the synergy between nitrofurantoin is generally applicable to other Cpx stimuli. To summarize, this study highlights the potential of aminoglycoside‐nitrofurantoin combination to replenish the arsenal against recurrent Gram‐negative uropathogens and shed light on the Cpx signaling‐controlled nitroreductase as a potential target to manipulate the antibiotic susceptibility.
Carbon Vacancies Steer the Activity in Dual Ni Carbon Nitride Photocatalysis
Authors: Marchi Miriam , Raciti Edoardo , Gali Sai Manoj , Piccirilli Federica , Vondracek Hendrik , Actis Arianna , Salvadori Enrico , Rosso Cristian , Criado Alejandro , D'Agostino Carmine , Forster Luke , Lee Daniel , Foucher Alexandre C. , Rai Rajeev Kumar , Beljonne David , Stach Eric A. , Chiesa Mario , Lazzaroni Roberto , Filippini Giacomo , Prato Maurizio , Melchionna Michele , Fornasiero Paolo
Published: July 2023

The manipulation of carbon nitride (CN) structures is one main avenue to enhance the activity of CN‐based photocatalysts. Increasing the efficiency of photocatalytic heterogeneous materials is a critical step toward the realistic implementation of sustainable schemes for organic synthesis. However, limited knowledge of the structure/activity relationship in relation to subtle structural variations prevents a fully rational design of new photocatalytic materials, limiting practical applications. Here, the CN structure is engineered by means of a microwave treatment, and the structure of the material is shaped around its suitable functionality for Ni dual photocatalysis, with a resulting boosting of the reaction efficiency toward many CX (X = N, S, O) couplings. The combination of advanced characterization techniques and first‐principle simulations reveals that this enhanced reactivity is due to the formation of carbon vacancies that evolve into triazole and imine N species able to suitably bind Ni complexes and harness highly efficient dual catalysis. The cost‐effective microwave treatment proposed here appears as a versatile and sustainable approach to the design of CN‐based photocatalysts for a wide range of industrially relevant organic synthetic reactions.
18.1% Ternary All‐Polymer Solar Cells Sequentially Processed from Hydrocarbon Solvent with Enhanced Stability
Authors: Zhao Chaoyue , Ma Ruijie , Hou Yiwen , Zhu Liangxiang , Zou Xinhui , Xiong Wenzhao , Hu Huawei , Wang Lihong , Yu Han , Wang Yajie , Zhang Guoping , Yi Jicheng , Chen Lu , Wu Dan , Yang Tao , Li Gang , Qiu Mingxia , Yan He , Li Shunpu , Zhang Guangye
Published: July 2023

All‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs) have promising potential for industrial production due to their superior stability. Recently, the widespread application of the polymerized small molecule acceptor (PSMA) has led to a surge in the efficiency of all‐PSCs. However, the high efficiencies of these devices generally rely on the use of the highly volatile solvent, chloroform (CF). Furthermore, the molecular weights of PSMA are lower than polymer donors, yet their crystallinity is weaker than typical small molecules, making most PSMA‐based all‐PSCs suffer from low electron mobility. To improve device performance and facilitate large scale production of all‐PSCs, it is necessary to enhance electron mobility and avoid the use of CF. This paper investigates the use of sequential processing (SqP) for active layer preparation using toluene as the solvent to address these issues. This work reports 18.1% efficient all‐PSC devices, which is the highest efficiency of all‐PSCs prepared using non‐halogen solvents. This work systematically compares the conventional blend‐casting method with the SqP method using PM6 as the donor and PY‐V‐γ and PJ1‐γ as the acceptors, and compares the performance of binary and ternary blends in both methods. Finally, this work measures the device stability and finds that SqP can significantly improve the photostability of the device.
The importance of gynecological examination in adolescent girls and adult women with Prader–Willi syndrome
Authors: Srebnik Naama , Kalifa Tal Margaliot , Hirsch Harry J. , Benarroch Fortu , Eldar‐Geva Talia , Gross‐Tsur Varda
Published: July 2023

Current published guidelines for routine care of women with Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) do not include recommendations for gynecologic examinations. We describe our experience with gynecological examinations in women with PWS and offer recommendations for routine health care for these patients. Data were collected on all 41 PWS females ages ≥12 year, followed in our national Israeli multidisciplinary clinic between the years 2011 and 2022. Menstrual data and findings on external gynecological examination, including evaluation of the vulva and hymen were recorded at yearly visits. During the gynecological evaluation the topic of sexual education was discussed. Pelvic ultrasound, specifically for antral follicular count, was performed for those visiting the clinic during 2020–2022. Blood samples for luteinizing hormone (LH), follicular stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol were obtained routinely and DEXA scans for bone density were done when indicated. Of the 41 women, (median age at start of follow‐up 17 years, range [12.3–39], BMI 30.4 kg/m2 [IQR 23.5–37.1]), 39 women agreed to external gynecological examination. Eleven women (27%) had spontaneous menses, with menarche at the age of 14 to as late as 31 years. The hymen was intact in all except one. Poor hygiene was observed in eight women, three women with vulvovaginitis, and five with irritated vulva related to poor hygiene. Gynecological ultrasound was performed in 27 women. In 22, endometrial thickness was less than 5 mm. The median antral follicular count (AFC) was 6 (<10th percentile for age). No correlation between AFC and menstruation or BMI was found. Mean FSH level was 5.7 ± 3.6 IU, LH was 2.29 ± 2.23, and estradiol was 128 ± 76 pmol/L. Data on DEXA measurements were available in 25 women aged 16–39. Median spine T score was −1.3 (range between 0.5 and −3.7), and hip T score was −1.2 (range between 0.8 and −3.3). A negative correlation was found between endometrial thickness and the presence of osteopenia or osteoporosis (r = −0.5, p = 0.013). Despite our recommendations, only eight of 14 women agreed to hormonal treatment or contraception. One woman who received treatment had a thromboembolic event. Routine health care for women with PWS should include gynecological examinations. The gynecological evaluation should include external genital examination, assessment of hygiene, obtaining a blood sample for hormone levels, and documenting a history of sexual experience or sexual abuse. Hormonal treatment or contraception should be offered when appropriate.
A decade on: The achievements and challenges of the National Disability Insurance Scheme's implementation
Authors: Dickinson Helen , Yates Sophie
Published: July 2023

The National Disability Scheme began implementation in 2013 and in this article we reflect on its first decade. We explore why the National Disability Scheme was introduced and key design elements of the scheme before examining significant areas of debates that have emerged over this period, namely: co‐design of the scheme with people with disability; scheme costs; Tier 2 services; administrative burden and its unequal impact on different groups of participants; and market stewardship. We argue that many people accessing the NDIS have seen their lives transformed in a positive sense, but this is not the case for all and there remain some significant challenges with the scheme. The paper concludes by looking ahead and thinking about what might happen next for the NDIS to realise its full potential for all participants.
Cross‐Polarization Schemes for Improved Heteronuclear Transfers Involving Labile Protons in Biomolecular Solution NMR
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Grün J. Tassilo , Novakovic Mihajlo , Kupce Eriks , Rosenzweig Rina , Frydman Lucio
Published: July 2023

INEPT‐based experiments are widely used for 1H→15N transfers, but often fail when involving labile protons due to solvent exchanges. J‐based cross polarization (CP) strategies offer a more efficient alternative to perform such transfers, particularly when leveraging the Hwater
HN exchange process to boost the 1H→15N transfer process. This leveraging, however, demands the simultaneous spin‐locking of both Hwater and HN protons by a strong 1H RF field, while fulfilling the γHB1,H=γNB1,N Hartmann‐Hahn matching condition. Given the low value of γN/γH, however, these demands are often incompatible—particularly when experiments are executed by the power‐limited cryogenic probes used in contemporary high field NMR. The present manuscript discusses CP alternatives that can alleviate this limitation, and evaluates their performance on urea, amino acids, and intrinsically disordered proteins. These alternatives include new CP variants based on frequency‐swept and phase‐modulated pulses, designed to simultaneously fulfill the aforementioned conflicting conditions. Their performances vis‐à‐vis current options are theoretically analyzed with Liouville‐space simulations, and experimentally tested with double and triple resonance transfer experiments.
Single‐Nitrogen Atom Incorporation into B=B Bond via the N=N Bond Splitting of Diazo Compound and Diazirine
Authors: Zhu Lizhao , Kinjo Rei
Published: July 2023

Triboraazabutenyne 3 is synthesized by the reaction of diboraazabutenyne 1 with aryl boron dibromide followed by the reduction. The ligand exchange to replace phosphine on the terminal sp2 B atom with carbene furnishes 4. 11B NMR, solid‐state structures, and computational studies disclose that 3 and 4 feature the extremely polarized B=B bond. 4 readily splits the N=N bond of both diazo compound and diazirine under ambient conditions, whereby one nitrogen atom is incorporated into the B=B moiety leading to a neutral diboraazaallene 6. The mechanism of the reaction between 4 and diazo compound is extensively investigated by density functional theory (DFT) calculations, as well as the isolation of an intermediate.
Design and Application of Peptide‐Mimic Phosphonium Salt Catalysts in Asymmetric Synthesis
Authors: Fang Siqiang , Liu Zanjiao , Wang Tianli
Published: July 2023

Chiral phosphonium salt catalysis, traditionally classified as a type of phase transfer catalysis, has proven to be a powerful strategy for the stereoselective preparation of diverse optically active molecules. However, there still remain numerous forbidding issues of reactivity and selectivity in such well‐known organocatalysis system. Accordingly, the development of new and high‐performance phosphonium salt catalysts with unique chiral backbones is highly desirable, yet challenging. This Minireview describes the prominent endeavours in the development of a new family of chiral peptide‐mimic phosphonium salt catalysts with multiple hydrogen‐bonding donors and their applications in a plethora of enantioselective synthesis during the past few years. Hopefully, this minireview will pave a way for further developing much more efficient and privileged chiral ligands/catalysts featuring exclusively catalytic ability in asymmetric synthesis.
A Redox‐Responsive Ferrocene‐Based Capsule Displaying Unusual Encapsulation‐Induced Charge‐Transfer Interactions
Authors: Toyama Kazuki , Tanaka Yuya , Yoshizawa Michito
Published: July 2023

A ferrocene‐based capsule is spontaneously and quantitatively formed in water by the assembly of bent amphiphiles carrying two ferrocene units. The disassembly and assembly of the new organometallic capsule, with a well‐defined and highly condensed ferrocene core, are demonstrated by chemical redox stimuli in a fully reversible fashion under ambient conditions. In contrast to previously reported multiferrocene assemblies, only the present capsule efficiently encapsulates typical organic/inorganic dyes as well as electron‐accepting molecules in water. As a result, unusual host‐guest charge‐transfer (CT) interactions, displaying relatively wide absorption bands in the visible to near‐infrared region (λ=650–1350 nm), are observed upon the encapsulation of acceptors (i.e., chloranil and TCNQ). The resultant encapsulation‐induced CT interactions can be released by a redox stimulus through the disassembly of the capsule.
Optimization of nanofiber‐caproate/laurate esters synthesis, their characterization, and usage as emulsifier in o/w emulsion
Authors: Erinç Özlem , Erinç Hakan , Mert Behiç , Özbey Ayşe
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study is to optimize the esterification of nanofibers with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides at different substitution degrees' (DS) and to investigate the usage of nanofiber derivatives in model emulsions. First, cellulosic material was obtained and milled into nanofibers using a micro‐fluidizer. Then, these nanofibers were esterified with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides in a solvent of DMAc/LiCl with DMAP as an acid scavenger. The esterification of nanofibers with caproyl/lauroyl chlorides was optimized for fatty acid chloride mole and reaction time. Esterification reactions were carried out at 80°C with various molar ratios of acyl chlorides (3–15 moles) versus anhydroglucose unit of nanofibers and for various time durations (30–360 min). The hydrophobic derivatives with DS in the range of 0.34–2.77 were successfully obtained. Using the data obtained as a result of the optimization, nanofiber‐fatty acid esters with different DS (0.50–2.75) were produced and characterized. Analyzes showed that the esterification process was successful and as the degree of esterification increased, the crystallinity index and thermal stability of the derivatives decreased. Then, the nanofiber‐caproate/laurate esters with different DS were used as emulsifier (0.5 wt%) in an oil‐in‐water model emulsion containing 25 wt% oil and the emulsions were analyzed. The nanofiber caproate/laurate esters with a DS of 0.50–1.25 were suitable for o/w emulsions, while samples with a DS of 2.00 and above were not found suitable. Emulsions prepared by using nanofiber derivatives with 1.25 DS had higher G′ and G″ and viscosity values and lower droplet sizes than those of other group.
Preparation of polyborosiloxanes with systematically changed mechanical properties and correlation of their structure/property relationship
Authors: Xing Tao , Chen Kequan , Wang Yiran , Wu Zongze , Xu Yangguang , Xu Yong
Published: July 2023

Polyborosiloxanes (PBSs) are an important class of polymer as they serve as the platform for developing dynamic networks with versatile viscoelastic properties. However, an effective and systematic way to tuning the properties of these polymers is still lacking. Here in this work, we report a new method to preparing PBSs with versatile properties. By increasing the degree of polymerization of boronic acid end‐functionalized polydimethylsiloxane, a series of well‐defined PBSs with different mechanical properties were obtained. Various instruments such as Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectrometer, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectrometer and rheometer have been used to characterize the obtained products. By looking into the results we found rheological behaviors of these samples were closely related to their specific microstructures, shear stiffening of these polymers were directly related to the dynamics of hydrogen bonds rather than dative BO bonds. These new findings provide important insights for the development of PBSs with desired properties.
Form‐stable phase change materials supported by nanostructured zinc polyacrylate weakening super cooling of polyethylene glycol
Authors: Shen Xinyi , Luo Dan , Li Na , Wu Sha , Lei Jingxin , Wang Yuechuan , Xiao Yao , He Ping
Published: July 2023

In order to solve the leakage and distinct super cooling issues of polyethylene glycol (PEG), zinc polyacrylate was used as the supporting material to prepare PEG‐based form‐stable phase change materials (FSPCMs) in this paper. The polyacrylate fractions of zinc polyacrylate are crosslinked by zinc ions through electrovalent bonding. Due to the strong intermolecular force between PEG molecules and the crosslinked polyacrylate fractions, the PCMs have stabilized shape even at 90°C. Zinc ions will gather together because of the incompatibility between PEG matrix and zinc ions, to form nanostructure as the nucleating agent of PEG, weakening the supercooling of the FSPCMs. The enthalpy change values of the FSPCMs in the phase transition processes are all above 120.0 J g−1, showing good thermal energy storage capacity. Additionally, the FSPCMs after 100 times of thermal cycling possess similar thermal properties to the original ones, indicating that the nanostructured zinc polyacrylate has stable interaction with the PEG matrix.
Changes in Gene Expression After Exposing Arabidopsis thaliana Plants to Nanosecond High Amplitude Electromagnetic Field Pulses
Authors: Porcher Alexis , Wilmot Nancy , Bonnet Pierre , Procaccio Vincent , Vian Alain
Published: July 2023

The biological effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields due to wireless technologies and connected devices are a subject of particular research interest. Ultrashort high‐amplitude electromagnetic field pulses delivered to biological samples using immersed electrodes in a dedicated cuvette have widely demonstrated their effectiveness in triggering several cell responses including increased cytosolic calcium concentration and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. In contrast, the effects of these pulses are poorly documented when electromagnetic pulses are delivered through an antenna. Here we exposed Arabidopsis thaliana plants to 30,000 pulses (237  kV m−1, 280 ps rise‐time, duration of 500 ps) emitted through a Koshelev antenna and monitored the consequences of electromagnetic fields exposure on the expression levels of several key genes involved in calcium metabolism, signal transduction, ROS, and energy status. We found that this treatment was mostly unable to trigger significant changes in the messenger RNA accumulation of calmodulin, Zinc‐Finger protein ZAT12, NADPH oxidase/respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH) isoforms D and F, Catalase (CAT2), glutamate‐cystein ligase (GSH1), glutathione synthetase (GSH2), Sucrose non‐fermenting‐related Kinase 1 (SnRK1) and Target of rapamycin (TOR). In contrast, Ascorbate peroxidases APX‐1 and APX‐6 were significantly induced 3 h after the exposure. These results suggest that this treatment, although quite strong in amplitude, is mostly ineffective in inducing biological effects at the transcriptional level when delivered by an antenna. © 2023 The Authors. Bioelectromagnetics published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Bioelectromagnetics Society.
Change and challenge: An online course in Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Authors: Zhong Dan , Liu Yang‐Wuyue , Huang Gang , Xu Zhizhen , Zhao Yuanyin , He Wenhui , Sun Jianbin , He Fengtian , Chen Shan , Dai Shuang‐Shuang
Published: July 2023

The development of information technology and portable devices has sparked a revolution in the field of education, facilitating access to diverse educational resources and lifelong learning. In particular, the COVID‐19 pandemic has accelerated the transition from face‐to‐face to distance teaching, which requires online education to be provided worldwide. Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are key basic medical courses in laboratory‐based science that cover complicated theories and applications. The balance between traditional and online courses, and the effectiveness of online courses, are fundamental to the teaching quality of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. In this study, we explored the concepts, designs, and practices of a new blended online course and identified potential challenges. We hope that our experiences will provide new ideas for online teaching and promote teaching reform and the development of Medical Biochemistry and Molecular Biology education.
Large‐scale pathogenicity prediction analysis of cancer‐associated kinase mutations reveals variability in sensitivity and specificity of computational methods
Authors: Akula Sravani , Mullaguri Sai Charitha , Melton Niklas Max , Katta Archana , Naga Venkata Sai Giridhar Reddy , Kandula Shyamson , Pedada Raj Kumar , Subramanian Janakiraman , Kancha Rama Krishna
Published: July 2023

Background

Mutations in kinases are the most frequent genetic alterations in cancer; however, experimental evidence establishing their cancerous nature is available only for a small fraction of these mutants.

Aims

Predicition analysis of kinome mutations is the primary aim of this study. Further objective is to compare the performance of various softwares in pathogenicity prediction of kinase mutations.

Materials and methods

We employed a set of computational tools to predict the pathogenicity of over forty‐two thousand mutations and deposited the kinase‐wise data in Mendeley database (Estimated Pathogenicity of Kinase Mutants [EPKiMu]).

Results

Mutations are more likely to be drivers when being present in the kinase domain (vs. non‐kinase domain) and belonging to hotspot residues (vs. non‐hotspot residues). We identified that, while predictive tools have low specificity in general, PolyPhen‐2 had the best accuracy. Further efforts to combine all four tools by consensus, voting, or other simple methods did not significantly improve accuracy.

Discussion

The study provides a large dataset of kinase mutations along with their predicted pathogenicity that can be used as a training set for future studies. Furthermore, a comparative sensitivity and selectivity of commonly used computational tools is presented.

Conclusion

Primary‐structure‐based in silico tools identified more cancerous/deleterious mutations in the kinase domains and at the hot spot residues while having higher sensitivity than specificity in detecting deleterious mutations.
Comparison of Immobilized and Free Amyloglucosidase Process in Glucose SyrupsProduction from White Sorghum Starch
Authors: Taibi Houria , Boudries Nadia , Abdelhai Moufida , Lounici Hakim
Published: July 2023

Optimum conditions for glucose syrups production from white sorghum were studied through sequential liquefaction and saccharification processes. In the liquefaction process, a maximum dextrose equivalent (DE) of 10.98 % was achieved using 30 % (w/v) of starch and Termamyl ɑ‐amylase from Bacillus licheniformis. Saccharification was performed by free and immobilized amyloglucosidase from Rhizopus mold at 1 % (w/v). DE values of 88.32 % and 79.95 % were obtained from 30 % (w/v) of starch with, respectively, free and immobilized enzyme. The immobilized Amyloglucosidase in calcium alginate beads showed reusable capacity for up to 6 cycles with 46 % of the original activity retained. The kinetic behaviour of immobilized and free enzyme gives Km value of 22.13 and 16.55 mg mL−1 and Vmax of 0.69 and 1.61 mg mL−1 min−1, respectively. The hydrolysis yield using immobilized amyloglucosidase were lower than that of the free one. However, it is relevant to reuse enzyme without losing activity in order to trim down the overall costs of enzymatic bioprocesses as starch transformation into required products in industrial manufacturing. Hydrolysis of sorghum starch using immobilized amyloglucosidase represents a promising alternative towards the development of the glucose syrups production process and its utilization in various industries.
Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a pediatric patient: A typical presentation with oral manifestations
Authors: Shakya Royasa , Koirala Bandana , Dongol Ashok , Maharjan Iccha Kumar , Keshwar Shashi , Jain Neetu , Shrestha Ashish
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a rare hematological disorder characterized by abnormal proliferation of Langerhans cells. Head and neck region is commonly involved with oral manifestations appearing first in many instances. A thorough knowledge of the disorder and an interdisciplinary approach warrant for the better outcome of the condition.
Endogenous listeria monocytogenes endophthalmitis in a cirrhotic patient
Authors: Song Huping , Zhou Yunyun , Chen Tao , Wang Jingbo
Published: July 2023

Endogenous endophthalmitis caused by listeria monocytogenes is rare and serious, which is easily misdiagnosed initially. We present one case of endogenous endophthalmitis due to listeria monocytogenes in a cirrhotic patient, whose diagnosis was delayed 17 days after admission.
Data‐driven Design of Enhanced In‐based Catalyst for CO2 to Methanol Reaction
Authors: Khatamirad Mohammad , Fako Edvin , De Sandip , Müller Matthias , Boscagli Chiara , Baumgarten Robert , Ingale Piyush , d'Alnoncourt Raoul Naumann , Rosowski Frank , Schunk Stephan Andreas
Published: July 2023

The environmental impact of unsustainable CO2 emissions calls for immediate action. One of the main methods for large‐scale reduction of CO2 emissions is conversion of carbon dioxide to valuable feedstocks like energy carriers or chemicals. Realization of this goal requires catalysts showing high‐performance characteristics under the relevant industrial conditions. In recent years, In2O3‐based catalysts have been discussed as target materials for conversion of CO2 to methanol in the presence of hydrogen. Optimization of this catalytic system via conventional routes requires massive resources in terms of extensive testing, synthesis, and characterization. In our study, we take an alternative approach and exploit high‐throughput computation to create a database for oxygen vacancy formation energy and explore a large number of candidates, which motivates the selection of a subset of materials for the synthesis of bulk and supported catalysts, to be tested in hydrogenation of CO2 to methanol. The method shows the impact, as results show improved performance for selected candidates, compared to the reference In2O3‐system. This confirms the potential of the selected descriptors as criteria for a new way of targeted design of alternative catalysts.
Hydrocracking of Model Substances on Pt/H‐ZSM‐5 under an Imitated Fischer‐Tropsch Product Gas Composition
Authors: Oppmann Nicolas , Jess Andreas
Published: July 2023

Combining Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis (FTS) and subsequent cracking of unwanted long‐chain primary FT products in a tandem process is a successful procedure to improve the selectivity towards liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). To simplify the process, both reactions are carried out consecutively without prior product separation after FTS. In this work, the gas composition after FTS is imitated and, thus, the influence of unreacted CO and the by‐product water on the hydrocracking of n‐hexadecane as model substance is investigated. Furthermore, the reaction of alcohols and LPG components on a bifunctional Pt/H‐ZSM‐5 zeolite was examined as they are typically found in FT products. The cracking is affected negatively by the presence of CO, which is why a product separation upstream of hydrocracking after FTS can be considered as useful.
Transition Metal‐Free N−S Bond Cleavage and C−N Bond Activation of Ugi‐Adducts for Rapid Preparation of Primary Amides and α‐Ketoamides
Authors: Liu Chao , Van der Eycken Johan , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: July 2023

A novel method of transition metal‐free N−S bond cleavage and subsequent C−N bond activation of Ugi‐adducts was developed. Diverse primary amides and α‐ketoamides were prepared in a rapid, step‐economical and highly efficient manner in two steps. This strategy features excellent chemoselectivity, high yield and functional‐group tolerance. Primary amides derived from the pharmaceuticals probenecid and febuxostat were prepared. This method opens a new pathway for the simultaneous synthesis of primary amides and α‐ketoamides in an environmentally friendly manner.
Tetra‐Face‐Capped Octahedra in a Tetrahedra Network – Structure Determination and Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy of SrAl5P4N10O2F3
Authors: Pointner Monika M. , Oeckler Oliver , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: July 2023

Tetrahedra‐based nitridophosphates show a rich structural chemistry, which can be further extended by incorporating cations in higher coordinated positions, for example, in octahedral voids or by substituting the nitrogen atoms in the network with other anions. Following this approach, SrAl5P4N10O2F3 was synthesized at high‐temperature and high‐pressure conditions using a multianvil press (1400 °C, 5 GPa) starting from Sr(N3)2, c‐PON, P3N5, AlN, and NH4F. SrAl5P4N10O2F3 crystallizes in space group
with a=11.1685(2) and c=7.84850(10) Å. Atomic‐resolution EDX mapping with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) indicates atom assignments, which are further corroborated by bond‐valence sum (BVS) calculations. Ten Al3+‐centered octahedra form a highly condensed tetra‐face‐capped octahedra‐based unit that is a novel structure motif in network compounds. A network of vertex‐sharing PN4 tetrahedra and chains of face‐sharing Sr2+‐centered cuboctahedra complement the structure. Eu2+‐doped SrAl5P4N10O2F3 shows blue emission (λem=469 nm, fwhm=98 nm; 4504 cm−1) when irradiated with UV light.
Improvements in self‐confidence and satisfaction with self‐injection after introducing self‐injection of dupilumab in patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ito Makoto , Kamata Masahiro , Ishikawa Takeko , Uchida Hideaki , Suzuki Shoya , Takeshima Ryosuke , Watanabe Ayu , Mizukawa Itsumi , Egawa Shota , Fukaya Saki , Hayashi Kotaro , Fukuyasu Atsuko , Tanaka Takamitsu , Tada Yayoi
Published: July 2023

Dupilumab was approved for treating adult patients with atopic dermatitis (AD) refractory to topical therapy in Japan in April 2018, and self‐injection of dupilumab has been available since May 2019. Subcutaneous self‐injection of medication has benefits for patients and the healthcare system. However, anxiety about self‐injection, lack of confidence, and the complicated procedure could prevent initiating self‐injection. In this study, we assessed the experience of AD patients treated with dupilumab before and after introducing self‐injection, utilizing the Self‐Injection Assessment Questionnaire (SIAQ). Adult AD patients who received dupilumab by self‐injection and had been treated for more than 3 months after initiating self‐injection in our hospital from March 1, 2020, to June 19, 2021, were included in this study. Patients rated their perceptions about self‐injections using the SIAQ before the first self‐injection and 3 months after initiating self‐injection. Data were collected retrospectively from their charts. Data on 36 patients were analyzed. The mean age was 34.1 ± 11.5 years. Twenty patients used a prefilled auto‐injector, and the others used a prefilled syringe. Scores on self‐confidence and satisfaction with self‐injection significantly improved after introducing self‐injection. Feelings about injections improved in patients over 40 years and in those who felt anxious about self‐injection. A strong correlation in scores between satisfaction with self‐injection and the ease of use was observed. The results were not affected by clinical severity, gender, or device. Our results could encourage patients who dither to introduce self‐injection of dupilumab due to anxiety and/or lack of self‐confidence about self‐injection to initiate self‐injection.
Case series of catheter‐based arrhythmia ablation in 13 pregnant women
Authors: Mladoniczky Sára , Nagy Zsófia , Földesi Csaba , Som Zoltán , Bálint Hajnalka O. , Környei László , Ruzsa Diána , Fődi Eszter , Simor Tamás , Kardos Attila
Published: July 2023

Background

Catheter ablation is a rarely used procedure to treat arrhythmias during pregnancy.

Hypothesis

In the case of maternal arrhythmia during pregnancy, zero‐fluoroscopic catheter ablation is preferable to medical treatment.

Methods

Between April 2014 and September 2021, we examined the demographic data, procedural parameters, and fetal and maternal outcomes in pregnant women undergoing ablation at the Gottsegen National Cardiovascular Center and University of Pécs Medical School, Heart Institute.

Results

Fourteen procedures (14 electrophysiological studies [EPS], 13 ablations) performed on 13 pregnant women (age 30.3 ± 5.2 years, primipara n = 6) were studied. During EPS, 12 patients had inducible arrhythmias. Atrial tachycardia was confirmed in three, atrioventricular re‐entry tachycardia via manifest accessory pathway (AP) in three, and via concealed AP in one case. Atrioventricular nodal re‐entry tachycardia was confirmed in three and sustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in two cases. Eleven radiofrequency ablation (84.6%) and two cryoablation (15.4%) were performed. The electroanatomical mapping system was used in all cases. Transseptal puncture was performed in two cases (15.4%) due to left lateral APs. The mean procedure time was 76.0±33.0 minutes. All procedures were performed without fluoroscopy. No complications occurred. During the follow‐up, arrhythmia‐free survival was achieved in all cases, but in two patients, we used antiarrhythmic drugs (AADs) to achieve it. APGAR score was within the normal range in all cases [median (interquartile range), 9.0/10.0 (9.0–10.0/9.3–10.0)].

Conclusions

Zero‐fluoroscopic catheter ablation was an effective and safe treatment option for our 13 pregnant patients. Catheter ablation may have less side effects on fetal development than the use of AADs during pregnancy.
Rare Spin Avoided σ‐σ Diradical Planar Tetracoordinate Boron Cluster: A Proto‐Star for Planar Pentacoordination
Authors: Gohain Namrata , Bordoloi Abhik , Kalita Amlan J. , Guha Ankur K.
Published: July 2023

We report a global planar star‐like cluster B3Li3 featuring three planar tetracoordinate boron centres with a rare spin avoided σ‐σ diradical character. The cluster was found to be stable towards dissociation into different fragments. The spin density was found to be localized solely on the three boron atoms in the molecular plane. This spin avoided σ‐σ diradical character leads to the extension of the coordination number to yield a neutral B3Li3H3 and a cationic B3Li3H3+ cluster with three planar pentacoordinate boron centres in their global minimum structures. The planar geometry of the aninonic B3Li3H3− cluster is slightly higher in energy. The planar global clusters were found to maintain planarity in their ligand protected benzene bound complexes, B3Li3(Bz)3, B3Li3H3(Bz)3 and B3Li3H3(Bz)3+ with high ligand dissociation energies offering candidature for experimental detection.
Colonization success of a tree‐killing bark beetle: Geographic variation and mismatch with host preference
Authors: Takagi Etsuro
Published: July 2023

The preference–performance hypothesis (PPH) predicts that female insects maximize their fitness by ovipositing on hosts where their offspring perform the best. The preference–performance relationships in bark beetles are complex because before offspring development can occur in the phloem, adult bark beetles must first successfully invade host trees, and then construct galleries beneath the bark. Therefore, a positive correlation between host preference and successful colonization is necessary for the PPH in bark beetles to hold (i.e., the preference–colonization hypothesis in bark beetles). In this study, through field choice experiments, I investigated the successful colonization of the bark beetle, Polygraphus proximus, within four allopatrically distributed Abies species across a distinct biogeographic boundary in Japan. The results of this study showed that the biogeographic boundary did not limit the successful colonization by P. proximus. I observed that successful colonization was low in A. firma, despite it being an exotic species in the study sites and the most preferred at the study sites, indicating a mismatch between preference and colonization success. Additionally, I observed that A. sachalinensis had a high colonization success rate, even though it was the least preferred species at the study sites.
Working with a sleep‐deprived or a cognitively enhanced team member compromises motivation to contribute to group performance
Authors: Sattler Sebastian , Häusser Jan A. , Faber Nadira S.
Published: July 2023

How does knowing another team member is cognitively impaired or enhanced affect people's motivation to contribute to the team's performance? Building on the Effects of Grouping on Impairments and Enhancements (GIE) framework, we conducted two between‐subjects experiments (Ntotal = 2,352) with participants from a representative, nationwide sample of the working population in Germany. We found that another group member's impairment (sleep deprivation) and enhancement (taking enhancement drugs) lowered participants’ intentions to contribute to the team's performance. These effects were mediated by lowered perceived competence (enhancement and impairment) and warmth (only enhancement) of the other group member. The reason for being impaired or enhanced (altruistic vs. egoistic reason) moderated the indirect effect of the impairment on intended effort via warmth. Our results illustrate that people's work motivation is influenced by the psychophysiological states of other group members. Hence, the enhancement of one group member can have the paradoxical effect of impairing the performance of another.
Geometry‐guided semantic segmentation for post‐earthquake buildings using optical remote sensing images
Authors: Wang Yu , Jing Xin , Xu Yang , Cui Liangyi , Zhang Qiangqiang , Li Hui
Published: July 2023

Deep‐learning‐based automatic recognition of post‐earthquake damage for urban buildings is increasingly in demand for rapid and precise assessment of seismic hazards from optical remote sensing images. In this study, a novel loss function fusing geometric consistency constraint (GCC) with cross‐entropy (CE) loss is designed for post‐earthquake building segmentation with complex geometric features across multiple scales. Specifically, the GCC loss incorporates three critical components, namely, split line length, curvature, and area, and enables the exact extraction of the geometric constraints of boundary and region for damaged buildings. Through the optimization of multiple key coefficients of GCC loss, the proposed method achieves significant performance improvements in semantic segmentation, which is attributed to the enhanced ability to identify and capture the pixel relationship near the boundary. Merging GCC in the loss function enables faster and more accurate convergence of predicted values towards the ground truth during the training process, surpassing the performance of the CE loss alone. The results show that the combination of GCC and CE losses achieves the largest validation mIoU of 86.98% for damaged buildings segmentation, which facilitates post‐earthquake assessment with high accuracy. Moreover, incorporating GCC leads to more precise and robust seismic damage segmentation by effectively improving edge closure, removing internal noise, and reducing false‐positive and false‐negative misrecognition. In addition, the GCC term further validates the effectiveness of improving segmentation tasks for other networks (e.g., DeepLabv3+). The GCC‐derived method exhibits its desirable performance on segmentation accuracy, portability, and universality for building recognition with complex geometric features and post‐earthquake scenes.