bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three in One: Three Different Molybdates Trapped in a Thiacalix[4]arene Protected Ag72 Nanocluster for Structural Transformation and Photothermal Conversion
Authors: Wang Zhi , Zhu Yan‐Jie , Ahlstedt Olli , Konstantinou Konstantinos , Akola Jaakko , Tung Chen‐Ho , Alkan Fahri , Sun Di
Published: November 2023

Polyoxometalates (POMs) represent crucial intermediates in the formation of insoluble metal oxides from soluble metal ions, however, the rapid hydrolysis‐condensation kinetics of MoVI or WVI makes the direct characterization of coexisted molecular species in a given medium extremely difficult. Silver nanoclusters have shown versatile capacity to encapsulate diverse POMs, which provides an alternative scene to appreciate landscape of POMs in atomic precision. Here, we report a thiacalix[4]arene protected silver nanocluster (Ag72b) that simultaneously encapsulates three kinds of molybdates (MoO42−, Mo6O228− and Mo7O258−) in situ transformed from classic Lindqvist Mo6O192−, providing more deep understanding on the structural diversity and condensation growth route of POMs in solution. Ag72b is the first silver nanocluster trapping so many kinds of molybdates, which in turn exert collective template effect to aggregate silver atoms into a nanocluster. The post‐reaction of Ag72b with AgOAc or PhCOOAg produces a discrete Ag24 nanocluster (Ag24a) or an Ag28 nanocluster based 1D chain structure (Ag28a), respectively. Moreover, the post‐synthesized Ag28a can be utilized as potential ignition material for further application. This work not only provides an important model for unlocking dynamic features of POMs at atom‐precise level but also pioneers a promising approach to synthesize silver nanoclusters from known to unknown.
Chiral Isochalcogenourea‐Catalysed Enantioselective (4+2) Cycloadditions of Allenoates
Authors: Vogl Lukas S. , Mayer Peter , Robiette Raphaël , Waser Mario
Published: November 2023

Allenoates are versatile building blocks which are primarily activated and controlled using chiral tert. phosphine and tert. amine Lewis bases. We herein report the first example of allenoate activation by using chiral isochalcogenoureas (IChU) for formal (4+2) cycloaddition reactions. Compared to established phosphine and amine catalysis, the use of these easily available Lewis bases enables new stereoselective reaction pathways proceeding with high enantioselectivities, diastereoselectivities, and in good yields. In addition, the factors governing enantioselectivity and the origin of the observed differences compared to other commonly used Lewis bases are explained.
Cobalt‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation: Substrate Specificity and Mechanistic Variability
Authors: Chakrabortty Soumyadeep , de Bruin Bas , de Vries Johannes G.
Published: November 2023

Asymmetric hydrogenation finds widespread application in academia and industry. And indeed, a number of processes have been implemented for the production of pharma and agro intermediates as well as flavors & fragrances. Although these processes are all based on the use of late transition metals as catalysts, there is an increasing interest in the use of base metal catalysis in view of their lower cost and the expected different substrate scope. Catalysts based on cobalt have already shown their potential in enantioselective hydrogenation chemistry. This review outlines the impressive progress made in recent years on cobalt‐catalyzed asymmetric hydrogenation of different unsaturated substrates. We also illustrate the ligand dependent substrate specificity as well as the mechanistic variability in detail. This may well guide further catalyst development in this research area.
Design of Chiral β‐Double Helices from γ‐Peptide Foldamers
Authors: Pahan Saikat , Dey Sanjit , George Gijo , Mahapatra Souvik Panda , Puneeth Kumar DRGKoppalu R. , Gopi Hosahudya. N.
Published: November 2023

Chirality is ubiquitous in nature, and homochirality is manifested in many biomolecules. Although β‐double helices are rare in peptides and proteins, they consist of alternating L‐ and D‐amino acids. No peptide double helices with homochiral amino acids have been observed. Here, we report chiral β‐double helices constructed from γ‐peptides consisting of alternating achiral (E)‐α,β‐unsaturated 4,4‐dimethyl γ‐amino acids and chiral (E)‐α,β‐unsaturated γ‐amino acids in both single crystals and in solution. The two independent strands of the same peptide intertwine to form a β‐double helix structure, and it is stabilized by inter‐strand hydrogen bonds. The peptides with chiral (E)‐α,β‐unsaturated γ‐amino acids derived from α‐L‐amino acids adopt a (P)‐β‐double helix, whereas peptides consisting of (E)‐α,β‐unsaturated γ‐amino acids derived from α‐D‐amino acids adopt an (M)‐β‐double helix conformation. The circular dichroism (CD) signature of the (P) and (M)‐β‐double helices and the stability of these peptides at higher temperatures were examined. Furthermore, ion transport studies suggested that these peptides transport ions across membranes. Even though the structural analogy suggests that these new β‐double helices are structurally different from those of the α‐peptide β‐double helices, they retain ion transport activity. The results reported here may open new avenues in the design of functional foldamers.
Non‐Metallic NH4+/H+ Co‐Storage in Organic Superstructures for Ultra‐Fast and Long‐Life Zinc‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Zhang Yehui , Song Ziyang , Miao Ling , Lv Yaokang , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: November 2023

Compared with Zn2+ storage, non‐metallic charge carrier with small hydrated size and light weight shows fast dehydration and diffusion kinetics for Zn‐organic batteries. Here we first report NH4+/H+ co‐storage in self‐assembled organic superstructures (OSs) by intermolecular interactions of p‐benzoquinone (BQ) and 2, 6‐diaminoanthraquinone (DQ) polymer through H‐bonding and π–π stacking. BQ‐DQ OSs exhibit exposed quadruple‐active carbonyl motifs and super electron delocalization routes, which are redox‐exclusively coupled with high‐kinetics NH4+/H+ but exclude sluggish and rigid Zn2+ ions. A unique 4e− NH4+/H+ co‐coordination mechanism is unravelled, giving BQ‐DQ cathode high capacity (299 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), large‐current tolerance (100 A g−1) and ultralong life (50,000 cycles). This strategy further boosts the capacity to 358 mAh g−1 by modulating redox‐active building units, giving new insights into ultra‐fast and stable NH4+/H+ storage in organic materials for better Zn batteries.
Spinal anaesthesia with intravenous sedation for total hip arthroplasty in two patients with a history of orthotopic heart transplantation
Authors: Tseng L. , Al‐Saidi I. , Channagiri V.
Published: November 2023

Many patients with orthotopic heart transplantation later undergo non‐cardiac surgery. Historically, neuraxial anaesthesia has been avoided in these patients because the denervated heart is unable to compensate for hypotension via the baroreceptor reflex. Here, we present the cases of two patients with prior heart transplantation who underwent total hip arthroplasty under spinal anaesthesia with intravenous sedation. In both cases, this technique was well‐tolerated haemodynamically. We propose that spinal anaesthesia with intravenous sedation can be a safe and efficacious anaesthetic technique for selected patients with a history of orthotopic heart transplantation, with careful intraoperative fluid and pharmacological management.
Results of the 2023 AORN Salary and Compensation Survey
Authors: Bacon Donald R. , Stewart Kim A.
Published: November 2023

AORN conducted its 21st annual compensation survey for perioperative nurses in May and June of 2023. A multiple regression model was used to examine how several variables, including job title, education level, certification, experience, and geographic region, affect perioperative nurse compensation. Comparisons between the 2023 data and data from previous years are presented. The effects of other forms of compensation (eg, on‐call compensation, overtime, bonuses, shift differentials, benefits) on total compensation are also examined. Additional analyses explore the current state of the nursing shortage and the sources of job satisfaction and dissatisfaction.
The Effect of Implementing a Standardized Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Pain Management Pathway at an Urban Medical Center in Hawaii
Authors: Doronio Geraldine M. , Lee Amy S. D.
Published: November 2023

Traditional use of opioids to treat postoperative pain may lead to abuse and overdose. The development of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols has helped to shift pain management from traditional methods to evidence‐based best practices involving multimodal analgesia techniques. The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement and determine the effectiveness of a standardized, evidence‐based ERAS pain management pathway for patients undergoing colorectal or gynecology procedures at a medical center in Hawaii. After the intervention, the evaluation of data associated with opioid use, patients’ pain scores, time spent in the postanesthesia care unit, and inpatient length of stay showed that most results were not significant. However, the ERAS pain management pathway did reduce clinical practice variations, intraoperative opioid administration, the time that patients spent in the postanesthesia care unit, and length of stay. The ERAS pain management pathway continues to be used and updated at this facility.
Soft analyzer for sulfur content in tail oil of hydrocracking process based on adaptively regularized dynamic polynomial PLS
Authors: Yao Yating , Shen Xiaohang , Qiao Linke , Zuo Ziteng , Shao Weiming , Zhao Dongya
Published: November 2023

Hydrocracking process is an essential and widely used means to remove impurities such as sulfur, nitrogen, and oxygen from heavy oil in refineries. The sulfur content in the tail oil of the hydrogenation process is a key quality index that must be strictly monitored and controlled. However, the traditional measurement ways of the sulfur content suffer from either large delays or high investment and maintenance costs. To this end, a predictive model named “adaptively regularized dynamic polynomial partial least squares (ARDPPLS)” is proposed to develop soft analyzer for sulfur content estimation. The ARDPPLS takes complicated characteristics of the hydrogenation process into consideration, including process dynamics, nonlinearities, and transportation delays of materials and energies. Specifically, the dynamics and nonlinearities are modeled by the finite impulse response paradigm and polynomial fitting, respectively, and the delays of explanatory variables are automatically determined using differential evolution. In particular, a Bayesian inference‐based adaptive regularization scheme for the polynomial partial least squares is designed to tackle overfitting that results from high‐order variable augmentation and high‐order polynomials. The performance of the ARDPPLS is evaluated by a real‐world industrial wax oil hydrocracking process, showing the effectiveness of the ARDPPLS.
Optimisation of H‐doped WO3 synthesis at ambient conditions for potential acetone gas sensing
Authors: Tamelarasan Ramanath , Lo Newton Well , Muthoosamy Kasturi , Thangalazhy‐Gopakumar Suchithra
Published: November 2023

Tungsten trioxide (WO3) is a highly desired semiconductor metal oxide (SMO) to detect acetone gas which is present at high levels in the breath of diabetic patients. Current research in the biosensor field is focused on the synthesis of sensing material at room temperature to ease fabrication and reduce energy requirements for operations. In this context, hydrogen doping aids in increasing the baseline conductivity of WO3. Therefore, the current research aimed to synthesise H‐doped WO3 at ambient conditions via an ultrasonication‐assisted hydrogenation route. Besides, the independent effects of other factors on hydrogenation were studied. These include synthesis temperature (room temperature to 80°C) and zinc precursor loading (0.8 to 2.0). By varying the concentrations of WO3 for the synthesis, it was determined that the highest degree of hydrogenation was achieved at 10 mg/ml. This was indicated by a visible colour change to dark blue and the highest conductivity. The findings revealed that hydrogenation is less effective at higher temperatures. The most optimum zinc loading was found to be 1.6 where the maximum attainable conductivity was 116.1 mS/cm. This H‐doped WO3 sample was subsequently subjected to diluted acetone sensing performance. The sample showed a significant reduction in resistance towards diluted acetone of 1000 ppm compared to undoped WO3. Thus, findings from this work offer a potential room temperature‐based synthesis method for acetone detection at low concentration.
Preparation and properties of alcohol‐resistant thermal transfer printing inks for multifunctional label printing via physical blending of resins
Authors: Luo Zhuo , Chen Guangyu , Yang Yuanhao , Huang Liuqing , Zhang Chentong , Luo Haixiang , Yu Weiwei , Luo Xuetao
Published: November 2023

Due to the rise of the logistics industry and the widespread use of ink labels, problems such as the narrow operating temperature range of ink, poor alcohol resistance, and insufficient scratch resistance need to be solved urgently. In this work, creates alcohol‐resistant thermal transfer inks by mixing polypropylene chloride (VP‐365) and epoxidized hydrogenated bisphenol A (P) resin and incorporating them into the ink formulation. The synthetic ink has a lower glass transition temperature (118.2°C), allowing the ink to print at lower temperatures. It has small wetting angles (68°, 63°, 58°, 46°, and 40°) and a large adhesion force (10.44 – 14.4 N) for different labels. Further, to evaluate the printing performance of the ink, the ink was scratched under 1000 g pressure and in the environment of isopropyl alcohol to evaluate its printing performance. The produced ink has high scratch resistance (300 times) and good alcohol resistance (140 times). Moreover, the developed ink showed good printability, printing media versatility, high adhesion, and excellent alcohol resistance. The synthesis method is facile and cost‐effective, which paves a novel way towards high‐performance ink printing and thermal transfer technology industries.
Study of long‐term skid and wear resistance of waterborne epoxy resin‐SBRcompound modified emulsified asphalt microsurfacing
Authors: Lu Chuan , Zheng Mulian , Gao Yuan , Ding Xiaoyan , Zhang Wenwu , Chen Wang
Published: November 2023

As an eco‐friendly technology for pavement preventive maintenance, microsurfacing (MS) has the potential properties of cost‐saving and excellent performance benefits in repairing distress. MS also improves the surface function, especially skid resistance, of old pavements that have gradually decayed under the coupled effects of long‐term environment and loads. Reasonable assessments of the long‐term skid and wear resistance of the MS can provide support for accurate decision‐making on preventive maintenance, which in turn reduces maintenance costs and saves maintenance costs, and ensures traffic safety. To evaluate the long‐term skid and wear resistance of MS in different natural and traffic environments, this paper investigated the change of British pendulum number (BPN), rutting depth, and mass loss rate of waterborne epoxy resin‐SBR compound emulsified asphalt micro‐surfacing (WER‐SBR MEAMS) under different environmental factors and traffic conditions based on the self‐developed accelerated loading abrasion instrument. The factors considered in the experiment include temperature, rainfall, UV radiation, speed, and load. The results showed that temperature and vehicle speed had a detrimental effect on the durability of WER‐SBR MEAMS, which was more pronounced after 10,000 wear loading cycles. Reducing immersion time and slowing down the aging rate can improve the durability of WER‐SBR MEAMS. Further, the influence degrees of different factors on the skid and wear resistance of MS were evaluated using the gray correlation method. From the results of the gray correlation analysis, the correlation coefficients between external variables and BPN, rutting depth, and mass loss rate are all greater than 0.8, which indicate that all the variables involved have relatively obvious and regular effects on the skid and wear resistance of WER‐SBR MEAMS.
Magnesium oxide synthesized with Alpinia zerumbet leaf extracts as a sustainable alternative to zinc oxide in nitrile rubber compounds: A comparative vulcanization kinetics investigation
Authors: da Silva Arianne A. , de Souza Marcelo A. V. , F de Sousa Ana Maria , Carvalho Nakédia M. F. , Furtado Cristina R. G.
Published: November 2023

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is the most widely used activator in the rubber industry; however, there is growing concern about its use as it can become toxic to the environment, particularly in aquatic systems. This study describes the synthesis of magnesium oxide (MgO) assisted by the Alpinia zerumbet extract, which is then used as an activator in the replacement of ZnO to vulcanize nitrile rubber (NBR) containing 33% and 45% acrylonitrile (ACN). The t90 for NBR‐33% and NBR‐45% are 20 and 15 min, respectively. This indicates a reduction of 5 min in t90 with an increase in ACN. In comparison, ZnO‐activated NBR compounds exhibit the opposite trend, with t90 increasing from 10 for NBR‐33% to 19 min for NBR‐45%. Furthermore, the decrease in activation energy (Ea) with the increase in conversion for 33%‐MgO and 45%‐MgO indicates that vulcanization with MgO is a complex process. This behavior is comparable to that of 45%‐ZnO, but not for 33%‐ZnO because its Ea remains oscillating at 80–90 kJ mol−1 in the entire conversion range. The crosslink densities of 33%‐MgO and 45%‐MgO are 5.87 and 4.78 mol cm−3, respectively. These values are slightly higher than those for 33%‐ZnO (5.77 mol cm−3) and 45%‐ZnO (4.38 mol cm−3).
Heavy Tetrel Clusters Based on the Bicyclobutane Framework: Bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes, [1.1.1]Propellanes, and Tricyclo[2.1.0.02,5]pentanes
Authors: Ya. Lee Vladimir , Gapurenko Olga A.
Published: November 2023

In this review, the current state of affairs in the novel field of the group 14 element clusters based on the bicyclo[1.1.0]butane framework, namely, bicyclo[1.1.0]butane, [1.1.1]propellane, and tricyclo[2.1.0.02,5]pentane derivatives, are overviewed. Structural similarities and differences between these three classes of highly strained polycyclic compounds are considered from the viewpoint of the critically important nature of their bridgehead bonds. Synthetic strategies towards bicyclo[1.1.0]butanes, [1.1.1]propellanes, and tricyclo[2.1.0.02,5]pentanes, as well as their peculiar structural and bonding features, and specific reactivity, are also presented and discussed in this review.
Prolonged neural encoding of visual information in autism
Authors: Marsicano Gianluca , Casartelli Luca , Federici Alessandra , Bertoni Sara , Vignali Lorenzo , Molteni Massimo , Facoetti Andrea , Ronconi Luca
Published: November 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is associated with a hyper‐focused visual attentional style, impacting higher‐order social and affective domains. The understanding of such peculiarity can benefit from the use of multivariate pattern analysis (MVPA) of high‐resolution electroencephalography (EEG) data, which has proved to be a powerful technique to investigate the hidden neural dynamics orchestrating sensory and cognitive processes. Here, we recorded EEG in typically developing (TD) children and in children with ASD during a visuo‐spatial attentional task where attention was exogenously captured by a small (zoom‐in) or large (zoom‐out) cue in the visual field before the appearance of a target at different eccentricities. MVPA was performed both in the cue‐locked period, to reveal potential differences in the modulation of the attentional focus, and in the target‐locked period, to reveal potential cascade effects on stimulus processing. Cue‐locked MVPA revealed that while in the TD group the pattern of neural activity contained information about the cue mainly before the target appearance, the ASD group showed a temporally sustained and topographically diffuse significant decoding of the cue neural response even after the target onset, suggesting a delayed extinction of cue‐related neural activity. Crucially, this delayed extinction positively correlated with behavioral measures of attentional hyperfocusing. Results of target‐locked MVPA were coherent with a hyper‐focused attentional profile, highlighting an earlier and stronger decoding of target neural responses in small cue trials in the ASD group. The present findings document a spatially and temporally overrepresented encoding of visual information in ASD, which can constitute one of the main reasons behind their peculiar cognitive style.
Einfluss der Bügelschlösser auf das Tragverhalten von Stahlbetonstützen
Authors: Matz Henrik , Empelmann Martin
Published: November 2023

Zur Sicherung der Integrität eines Gesamttragwerks sollten Stahlbetonstützen nach Erreichen ihrer Traglast noch eine definierte Resttragfähigkeit bzw. Robustheit aufweisen. Ein robustes Nachbruchverhalten kann z. B. durch eine geeignete konstruktive Durchbildung erzielt werden. Hierbei wird der Einfluss der Bügelschlösser häufig unterschätzt und baupraktischen Belangen untergeordnet. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird dieser Aspekt experimentell untersucht. Durchgeführte Stützenversuche zeigen deutlich, dass die Ausbildung der Bügelschlösser einen maßgeblichen Einfluss auf das Nachbruchverhalten von Stahlbetonstützen hat und die Regelungen des EC2 sowie die verschiedenen Empfehlungen der kommentierten Fassung nicht zu einem gleichartigen Verhalten führen.
Improved adeno‐associated virus empty and full capsid separation using weak partitioning multi‐column AEX chromatography
Authors: Di Wenjun , Koczera Kyle , Zhang Peilun , Chen Dennis P. , Warren James C. , Huang Chao
Published: November 2023

Recombinant adeno‐associated virus (rAAV) empty and full capsid separation has been a topic of interest in the rAAV gene therapy community for many years and the anion exchange chromatography (AEX) step has undergone various process optimizations to improve rAAV empty capsid separation, including AEX stationary phase, mobile phase, and process parameters. Here, we present a new AEX method that employs both weak partitioning chromatography (WPC) and multi‐column chromatography (MCC) to achieve improved full rAAV percentage in the AEX pool. The WPC technology allows empty rAAV to be displaced by full rAAV during loading, while the MCC technology enables parallel column processing which further increases AEX step productivity. Our results show that, compared to baseline AEX batch chromatography, the AEX‐WPC‐MCC method demonstrated improvements in both AEX pool full rAAV percentage (∼ 20% increase) and rAAV genome recovery (∼ 20% increase). As a result, the productivity (full capsid generated per liter of AEX column per hour of processing time) of the AEX step increased by ∼34‐fold from the baseline AEX batch run to the AEX‐WPC‐MCC run. It is foreseeable that this AEX‐WPC‐MCC method could find applications in large‐scale rAAV manufacturing processes to improve AEX yield and reduce the cost of goods of rAAV manufacturing.
Joining multi‐stakeholder initiatives to fight climate change: The environmental impact of corporate participation in the Science Based Targets initiative
Authors: Romito Stefano , Vurro Clodia , Pogutz Stefano
Published: November 2023

This study theorizes and empirically tests whether firms' decisions to join multi‐stakeholder initiatives, targeting climate mitigation, lead to improved environmental performance. We focus on firms' participations in the Science Based Targets initiative, a multi‐stakeholder initiative meant to support firms in setting greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets in line with the thresholds defined by the Paris Agreement in 2015. The study hypothesizes that participation reduces firm's concerns about uncertainty and encourages investments in timeous internal climate change activities. We used the coarsened exact matching methodology to create a matched sample of European and North American listed firms participating in the initiative and comparable, non‐participating firms over a 3‐year period from 2015 to 2017. The results showed that firms' participation led to lower levels of GHG emissions compared to similar non‐participating counterparts, especially when they committed to the initiative with the intention to follow the proposed indications.
Managing integrated continuous bioprocesses in real time: Deviations in product quality
Authors: Grampp Gustavo , Bosley Allen , Qadan Maen , Schiel John , Spasoff Andy , Valax Pascal , Schaefer Gene
Published: November 2023

The N‐mAb case study was produced by the National Institute for Innovation in Manufacturing Biopharmaceuticals (NIIMBL) to support teaching and learning for both industry and regulators around adoption of advanced manufacturing process technologies such as integrated continuous bioprocesses (ICB) for monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). N‐mAb presents the evolution of an integrated control strategy, from early clinical through process validation and commercial manufacturing with a focus on elements that are unique to ICB. The entire N‐mAb case study is quite comprehensive, therefore this publication presents a summary of the chapter on managing deviations from a state of control in real time. This topic is of critical importance to ICB and is also applicable to batch processes operated at a rapid cadence.
Chemical Characterization, DNA‐Damage Protection, Antiproliferative Activity and in Silico Studies of the Essential Oils from Perralderia coronopifolia Coss.**
Authors: Boussaha Sara , Lassed Somia , Abdelwahab Ahmed B. , Krid Adel , Altun Muhammed , Chalard Pr.Pierre , Chalchat Pr.Jean Claude , Figueredo Gilles , Zama Pr.Djamila , Demirtas Pr.Ibrahim , Benayache Pr.Samir , Benayache Pr.Fadila
Published: November 2023

In this study, for the first time, we analyzed the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) steam‐distilled from the flowers and leaves of Perralderia coronopifolia by GC‐FID/MS. The objective was to explore new anticancer and antioxidant bioactive substances and understand their mechanisms of action through the use of plant‐derived natural products. The major chemical components characterizing the EOs were cis‐chrysanthenyl acetate 1, 6‐oxocyclonerolidol 2, cis‐8‐acetoxychrysanthenyl acetate 3, and 6α‐hydroxycyclonerolidol 4, respectively. Furthermore, the EOs inhibited cell proliferation in HeLa (human cervix carcinoma) and PC3 (human prostate cancer) cells and protected plasmid DNA from oxidative damage caused by UV‐photolyzed H2O2. Employing a molecular docking study, we elucidated the main compounds′ inhibition mechanisms. Consequently, the antitumor activity could be related to the inhibitory property of compound 3 against CDC25B phosphatase. The evaluation of ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity) properties and the density functional theory (DFT) calculations of the major compounds, especially compound 3, offer potential insights for designing and developing new cancer drug candidates. In conclusion, our study provides a framework for future research and development in the field by establishing a scientific foundation for the use of Perralderia coronopifolia essential oils as a prospective source of antioxidant and anticancer agents.
Prenatal sirenomelia diagnosis in the first trimester: A case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Xiaqing , Kong Fengbei , Wu Guoru , Shi Yu
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Sirenomelia is a lethal condition in the perinatal period. The sonographic examination in the first trimester can effectively detect sirenomelia with a high degree of accuracy. Furthermore, vascular examinations using color flow imaging and augmented imaging techniques such as 3D sonography can improve diagnostic accuracy. Parents should get advice from a multidisciplinary team concerning sirenomelia care and prognosis as soon as possible.

Sirenomelia is a rare condition with an uncommon congenital malformation; its most remarkable feature is lower extremity fusion with multiple visceral anomalies. Accordingly, the appearance resembles a mermaid's tail, hence mermaid syndrome. Sirenomelia has an incidence rate of 1.5–4.2 per 100,000 births, a male‐to‐female 2.7:1 ratio, and shows no differences across races. The condition is generally associated with renal agenesis, exterior genitalia defects, a single umbilical artery, and an imperforate anus. Here, we describe the first sirenomelia case in our hospital; a 13‐week‐old fetus with conjoined lower limbs was identified by ultrasound in the first trimester. We discuss this rare case with reference to the literature and provide insights on diagnosing this condition by ultrasound.
Isolated breast hydatid cyst: A case report
Authors: Mesfin Telila , Sahiledengle Biniyam , Taha Muhammadamin , Nigusu Fikadu , Seyoum Kenbon , Geta Girma , Ejigu Neway , Zenbaba Demisu , Gomora Degefa , Beressa Girma , Dadi Sisay , Ibrahim Elias , Tsegaye Mesfin , Kusa Getu , Bezaw Elias
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

A hydatid cyst is a parasitic infestation most frequently caused by the larval tapeworm known as Echinococcus granulosus. Breast hydatidosis is a very uncommon condition that may be the main site or one of its components in cases of extensive hydatidosis. We discussed a 28‐year‐old female patient who had been experiencing left breast pain for a year prior to her presentation.
Metabolic alkalosis masked presentation of diabetic ketoacidosis: A case report
Authors: Wuttiputhanun Thunyatorn , Townamchai Natavudh , Eiam‐Ong Somchai , Takkavatakarn Kullaya
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Managing mixed acid–base disorders can be diagnostically challenging, particularly when metabolic acidosis and metabolic alkalosis occur simultaneously. When dealing with metabolic alkalosis, a comprehensive approach involves taking a detailed medical history, assessing volume status, and performing urine chloride analysis. Routine calculation of the anion gap is important to identify masked wide anion gap metabolic acidosis. We report a case of a 32‐year‐old female with type 1 diabetes mellitus, presented with intractable vomiting for 2 days with hyperglycemia, hypokalemia, and metabolic alkalosis, along with a wide anion gap. She was diagnosed with “diabetic ketoalkalosis” due to diabetic ketoacidosis combined with vomiting‐induced metabolic alkalosis. She became clinically stable after resuscitation with normal saline, intravenous potassium, and intravenous insulin.
Intramuscular cavernous malformation in the temporalis muscle: Diagnosis and treatment of a rare tumor in a rare site
Authors: Jafarian Mohammad , Alizadeh Tabrizi Mohammad Amir , Mashhadi Abbas Fatemeh , Torabi Zahra Sadat
Published: November 2023

Key clinical message

In this case report we present a very rare case of intramuscular cavernous hemangioma in the temporalis muscle which was successfully managed with surgical excision with no evidence of recurrence in follow‐up.
Hashimoto thyroiditis in a lingual thyroid: An interesting case
Authors: Dahal Prajwal , Parajuli Sabina
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Whenever an enlarging mass is seen in throat, possibility of lingual thyroid should be considered. Thyroid function test should be done whenever ectopic thyroid is detected. Imaging (ultrasonography or Tc‐99m scintigraphy) is adequate for diagnosis. Conservative treatment with levothyroxine helps in reducing size of lingual thyroid.

Hashimoto thyroiditis in lingual thyroid results in enlargement of the thyroid gland and oropharyngeal symptoms. Suppression therapy with levothyroxine results in reduction in size of the gland. We present an interesting case of Hashimoto disease in an adolescent female presenting as oropharyngeal mass.
Insight into the Role of the Amino‐Organosilane Modifier in Improving the Catalytic Activity of ZnO‐Supported Gold Species in Base‐Free Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol
Authors: Wolski Lukasz , Sobańska Kamila , Wolska Joanna , Rozmyślak Mateusz , Nowaczyk Grzegorz , Frankowski Marcin , Pietrzyk Piotr
Published: November 2023

Understanding the factors that affect the reactivity of gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) in the catalytic oxidation of organic compounds remains an important issue. Of particular significance is tuning the effect of metal‐support interaction toward improving the catalytic performance of Au NPs. The main goal of this study is to provide new insight into the role of the amino‐organosilane (APMS) modifier, used for anchoring of gold species on ZnO support, in controlling the reactivity of Au NPs in H2O2 activation and the subsequent catalytic oxidation of benzyl alcohol. This study reveals that APMS modifier weakens the electronic interaction between ZnO and Au NPs, leading to a lower catalase‐like activity toward H2O2 in comparison to that observed for modifier‐free gold catalyst of similar size of nanoparticles. As a result, a slower rate of oxygen evolution resulted in higher activity in the oxidation of benzyl alcohol and enabled more efficient utilization of H2O2 under base‐free conditions. No radical species were formed during the oxidation reaction, and molecular oxygen formed in situ in the reaction medium was the primary oxidant responsible for the catalytic conversion of benzyl alcohol.
NDI based C2‐symmetric Chiral Supramolecular Hydrogels Towards Enhanced Conductivity
Authors: Razaq Hamaela , Mehwish Nabila , Xia Jingyi , Feng Chuanliang
Published: November 2023

To comprehend the significance of improved conductive properties in C2‐symmetric hydrogels, it is vital to investigate how non‐gelating achiral functional group isomers influence the conductivity of such supramolecular hydrogels, whereas understanding the major driving forces behind this regulatory process is first and foremost. Herein, we report a hydrogel system containing tryptophan‐conjugated NDI as the backbone (L/D‐NTrp), enabling effective supramolecular assembly with the bipyridyl functional group isomers. This co‐assembly behavior results in materials with exceptional mechanical properties and high conductivities, surpassing most previously reported C2‐symmetrical hydrogels, as well as the ability to form controlled morphologies. Notably, the co‐hydrogels displayed an eight‐fold increase in mechanical strength, making them more robust and resistant to deformation compared to the original gel. Additionally, all hydrogels exhibited favorable electrical conductivity, with the co‐assembled hydrogels showcasing notable performance, making them a promising candidate for use in electronic devices and sensors. This report lays the foundation for further investigation into the properties and potential applications of L/D‐NTrp compound in the range of fields, including drug delivery, tissue engineering, and electronics.
A meta‐analysis investigating the efficacy and adverse events linked to sacubitril‐valsartan in various heart failure subtypes
Authors: Ji Qing
Published: November 2023

Background

Sacubitril‐valsartan, an inhibitor of the angiotensin receptor neprilysin (ARNi), has been purported to exhibit superiority over angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) in individuals diagnosed with heart failure.

Hypothesis

This paper gives an updated meta‐analysis comparing the efficacy and safety of sacubitril‐valsartan to that of standard treatment for different types of heart failure.

Results

The meta‐analysis comprised a total of nine randomized controlled trials (RCTs), incorporating data from a substantial sample size of 15 939 patients. The study observed a decrease in overall mortality and mortality related to cardiovascular causes among patients in the heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) category who were treated with sacubitril‐valsartan. However, no statistically significant variation in this outcome was seen among patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction and HFmrEF. Patients who were administered sacubitril‐valsartan had a notably elevated likelihood of experiencing hypotension. Nevertheless, no significant disparities were observed in terms of other adverse events among the various treatment groups.

Conclusion

Current meta‐analysis provide support for use of sacubitril‐valsartan in decreasing mortality in patients with HFrEF. However, more numbers of studies are required to draw a definite conclusion on other benefits associated with sacubitril‐valsartan use over standard treatment of ACE inhibitors and ARBs.
Mass transport, kinetic model, and application of CO2 adsorption on zeolite 5A granules
Authors: Sangsuradet Supawon , Worathanakul Patcharin
Published: November 2023

Environmental damage ranges from soil degradation, air pollution, and wastewater from human‐induced activity. In this study, to reduce CO2 emission, zeolite granules were prepared manually. In addition, the mass transfer and kinetic adsorption were analyzed to understand the mechanism of CO2 adsorption using mathematical models. We studied the effects of amount of binder, temperature, granule size, and flow rate of CO2 on efficient CO2 adsorption on zeolite 5A granules of different sizes (3–4 and 6–7 mm). The kinetics of CO2 adsorption and mass transfer of zeolite 5A granules were evaluated for the rate‐limiting step. The results showed that decreasing the temperature and the amount of binder increased the CO2 adsorption capacity. We observed the highest CO2 adsorption capacity of 2.84 mmol g−1 at 298 K with 4 wt% of the binder at a flow rate of 2 L h−1. The pseudo‐first‐order sorption behavior was the best model with R2 > 0.9832, whereas the root mean square error model showed an R2 < 0.2136. The Biot number and film diffusion model were used to investigate the importance of external mass transfer on intraparticle diffusion. It was confirmed that the adsorption on sustainable zeolite 5A granules was controlled by film diffusion.
Associations between white matter integrity of the cingulum bundle, surrounding gray matter regions, and cognition across the dementia continuum
Authors: Groechel Renée C. , Alosco Michael L. , Dixon Diane , Tripodis Yorghos , Mez Jesse , Goldstein Lee , Budson Andrew E. , Qiu Wei Qiao , Killiany Ronald J.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Previous Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD) research studies have illustrated the significance of studying alterations in white matter (WM). Fewer studies have examined how WM integrity, measured with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), is associated with volume of gray matter (GM) regions and measures of cognitive function in aged participants spanning the dementia continuum.

Methods

Magnetic resonance imaging and cognitive data were collected from 241 Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Research Center participants who spanned from cognitively normal controls to amnestic mild cognitive impairment to having dementia. Primary DTI tracts of interest were the cingulum ventral (CV) and cingulum dorsal (CD) pathways. GM regions of interest (ROIs) were in the medial temporal lobe (MTL), prefrontal cortex, and retrosplenial cortex. Analyses of covariance models were used to assess differences in WM integrity across groups (control, amnestic mild cognitive impairment, and dementia). Multiple linear regression models were used to assess associations between WM integrity and GM volume, and with measures of memory and executive function.

Results

Differences in WM integrity were shown in both cingulum pathways in participants across the dementia continuum. Associations between WM integrity of both cingulum pathways and volume of selected GM ROIs were widespread. Functionally significant associations were found between WM of the CV pathway and memory, independent of MTL GM volume.

Discussion

Differences in WM integrity of the cingulum bundle and surrounding GM ROI are likely related to the progression of AD/ADRD. Such differences should continue to be studied, particularly in association with memory performance.
The Exciton Model for Molecular Materials: Past, Present and Future?
Authors: Meskers Stefan C. J.
Published: November 2023

In assemblies of identical molecules or chromophores, electronic excitations can be described as excitons, bound electron‐hole pairs that can move from site to site as a pair in a coherent manner. The understanding of excitons is crucial when trying to engineer favorable photophysical properties through structuring organic molecular matter. In recent decades, limitations of the concept of an exciton have become clear. The exciton can hybridize with phonon and photons. To clarify these issues, the exciton is discussed within the broader context of the gauge properties of the electromagnetic force.
LEADER (Leaf Element Accumulation from DEep Roots): A nondestructive phenotyping platform to estimate rooting depth in the field
Authors: Hanlon Meredith T. , Brown Kathleen M. , Lynch Jonathan P.
Published: November 2023

Deeper rooted crops are an avenue to increase plant water and nitrogen uptake under limiting conditions and increase long‐term soil carbon storage. Measuring rooting depth, however, is challenging due to the destructive, laborious, or imprecise methods that are currently available. Here, we present LEADER (Leaf Element Accumulation from DEep Roots) as a method to estimate in‐field root depth of maize plants. We use both X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) spectroscopy and ICP‐OES (inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy) to measure leaf elemental content and relate this to metrics of root depth. Principal components of leaf elemental content correlate with measures of root length in four genotypes (R2 = 0.8 for total root length), and we use linear discriminant analysis to classify plants as having different metrics related to root depth across four field sites in the United States. We can correctly classify the plots with the longest root length at depth (deeper than 30 or 40 cm) with high accuracy (accuracy >0.6) at two of our field sites (Hancock, WI and Rock Spring, PA). We also use strontium (Sr) as a tracer element in both greenhouse and field studies, showing that elemental accumulation of Sr in leaf tissue can be measured with XRF and can estimate root depth. We propose the adoption of LEADER as a tool for measuring root depth in different plant species and soils. LEADER is faster and easier than any other methods that currently exist and could allow for extensive study and understanding of deep rooting.
A protective foliar complex boosts sugarcane quality and energy yield by reducing oxidative stress under drought
Authors: Jacomassi Lucas Moraes , Momesso Letusa , Pacola Marcela , Viveiros Josiane , Siqueira Gabriela Ferraz de , Araújo Júnior Osvaldo , Campos Murilo de , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa
Published: November 2023

Water stress negatively impacts plant morphology and physiology by inducing metabolic oxidative stress, which leads to cellular damage. Applying nutrients and/or organic molecules, such as amino acids, may mitigate the effects of drought stress. In the present study, the effects of a protective foliar complex (PFC) on late‐harvest sugarcane (Saccharum spp L.) (dry season) were evaluated. Four field experiments were carried out in commercial areas of sugarcane production in the central‐south region of Brazil using sugarcane variety CTC4: in the fourth and second ratoons in 2019 and in the fifth and third ratoons in 2020. The treatments consisted of foliar application or no application of the PFC at the beginning of the dry period in June. The PFC was applied at a dose of 10 L ha−1 in a water volume of 100 L ha−1. PFC application increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase) in sugarcane leaves. PFC application also reduced leaf levels of malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). On average, PFC application increased sucrose accumulation by 2.26 and 1.74 Mg ha−1 in 2019 and 2020, respectively, indicating improved raw material quality. In addition, PFC application mitigated damage caused by drought, with average increases in stalk productivity of 10.7 and 7.6 Mg ha−1 in 2019 and 2020, respectively. The positive effects of PFC application on plant antioxidant enzymes enabled greater biomass accumulation and, in turn, higher energy cogeneration.
Blue‐Light Induced Iron‐Catalyzed Synthesis of γ,δ‐Unsaturated Ketones
Authors: Joly Nicolas , Colella Alessandro , Mendy Monique‐Edwige , Mbaye Mbaye Diagne , Gaillard Sylvain , Poater Albert , Renaud Jean‐Luc
Published: November 2023

A visible‐light‐induced iron‐catalyzed α‐alkylation of ketones with allylic and propargylic alcohols as pro‐electrophiles is reported. The diaminocyclopentadienone iron tricarbonyl complex plays a dual role by harvesting light and facilitating dehydrogenation and reduction steps without the help of any exogenous photosensitizer. γ,δ‐Unsaturated ketones can now be accessed through this borrowing hydrogen methodology at room temperature. Mechanistic investigations revealed that the steric hindrance on the δ‐position of either the dienone or ene‐ynone intermediate is the key feature to prevent or decrease the competitive 1,6‐reduction (and consequently the formation of the saturated ketone) and to favor the synthesis of a set of non‐conjugated enones and ynones.
Variance in heat tolerance in bumble bees correlates with species geographic range and is associated with several environmental and biological factors
Authors: Feuerborn Cody , Quinlan Gabriela , Shippee Rachael , Strausser Tori L. , Terranova Tatiana , Grozinger Christina M. , Hines Heather M.
Published: November 2023

Globally, insects have been impacted by climate change, with bumble bees in particular showing range shifts and declining species diversity with global warming. This suggests heat tolerance is a likely factor limiting the distribution and success of these bees. Studies have shown high intraspecific variance in bumble bee thermal tolerance, suggesting biological and environmental factors may be impacting heat resilience. Understanding these factors is important for assessing vulnerability and finding environmental solutions to mitigate effects of climate change. In this study, we assess whether geographic range variation in bumble bees in the eastern United States is associated with heat tolerance and further dissect which other biological and environmental factors explain variation in heat sensitivity in these bees. We examine heat tolerance by caste, sex, and rearing condition (wild/lab) across six eastern US bumble bee species, and assess the role of age, reproductive status, body size, and interactive effects of humidity and temperature on thermal tolerance in Bombus impatiens. We found marked differences in heat tolerance by species that correlate with each species' latitudinal range, habitat, and climatic niche, and we found significant variation in thermal sensitivity by caste and sex. Queens had considerably lower heat tolerance than workers and males, with greater tolerance when queens would first be leaving their natal nest, and lower tolerance after ovary activation. Wild bees tended to have higher heat tolerance than lab reared bees, and body size was associated with heat tolerance only in wild‐caught foragers. Humidity showed a strong interaction with heat effects, pointing to the need to regulate relative humidity in thermal assays and consider its role in nature. Altogether, we found most tested biological conditions impact thermal tolerance and highlight the stages of these bees that will be most sensitive to future climate change.