bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Italian Translation of the Supports Intensity Scale-Children (SIS-C Italian): Measurement Invariance and Differences
Authors: Shaw Leslie A , Thompson James R , Lombardi Marco , Croce Luigi , Speziale Roberta , Gomiero Tiziano , Shogren Karrie A
Published: May 2022

The Supports Intensity Scale – Children's Version (SIS-C) was translated into Italian using a committee approach to translation. Latent modeling approaches enabled the leveraging of the large standardization sample from the U.S. (n = 4,015) to generate translation-specific norms from data collected in Italy (n = 435) for children and youth ranging ages 5-16 years placed in six evenly distributed age groups by country. Findings indicated the structure of the SIS-C (i.e., seven support need domains organized under an overall support needs construct), was supported in the Italian context. However, there were age-related differences in the U.S. and Italian samples. In the Italian sample, norms were established for the 5-8 years, 9-10 years, and 11-16 years age groups. Moreover, the Italian sample also differed from other European samples and SIS-C translations. The importance of understanding cultural contexts in interpreting findings from the SIS-C is discussed, along with ways in which SIS-C findings can be used to inform policy and practice in the Italian context.
Axonal injury in asymptomatic individuals preceding onset of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Jons Daniel , Zetterberg Henrik , Biström Martin , Alonso‐Magdalena Lucia , Gunnarsson Martin , Vrethem Magnus , Blennow Kaj , Nilsson Staffan , Sundström Peter , Andersen Oluf
Published: May 2022

Axonal loss is the main cause of irreversible disability in multiple sclerosis (MS). Serum neurofilament light (sNfL) is a biomarker of axonal disintegration. In this nested case–control study, blood samples from 519 presymptomatic persons (age range 4–39 years) who later received an MS diagnosis showed higher sNfL concentrations than 519 matched controls (p < 0.0001), noticeable at least 10 years before clinical MS onset. Mean values for pre‐MS and control groups were 9.6 pg/mL versus 7.4 pg/mL 0–5 years before onset, and 6.4 pg/mL versus 5.8 pg/mL 5–10 years before onset. These results support that axonal injury occurs early in MS pathogenesis.
Unravelling the Nature of the Intrinsic Complex Structure of Binary‐Phase Na‐Layered Oxides
Authors: Paidi Anil K. , Park Woon Bae , Ramakrishnan Prakash , Lee Seong‐Hun , Lee Jin‐Woong , Lee Kug‐Seung , Ahn Hyungju , Liu Tongchao , Gim Jihyeon , Avdeev Maxim , Pyo Myoungho , Sohn Jung Inn , Amine Khalil , Sohn Kee‐Sun , Shin Tae Joo , Ahn Docheon , Lu Jun
Published: May 2022

The layered sodium transition metal oxide, NaTMO2 (TM = transition metal), with a binary or ternary phases has displayed outstanding electrochemical performance as a new class of strategy cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). Herein, an in‐depth phase analysis of developed Na1−xTMO2 cathode materials, Na0.76Ni0.20Fe0.40Mn0.40O2 with P2‐ and O3‐type phases (NFMO‐P2/O3) is offered. Structural visualization on an atomic scale is also provided and the following findings are unveiled: i) the existence of a mixed‐phase intergrowth layer distribution and unequal distribution of P2 and O3 phases along two different crystal plane indices and ii) a complete reversible charge/discharge process for the initial two cycles that displays a simple phase transformation, which is unprecedented. Moreover, first‐principles calculations support the evidence of the formation of a binary NFMO‐P2/O3 compound, over the proposed hypothetical monophasic structures (O3, P3, O′3, and P2 phases). As a result, the synergetic effect of the simultaneous existence of P‐ and O‐type phases with their unique structures allows an extraordinary level of capacity retention in a wide range of voltage (1.5–4.5 V). It is believed that the insightful understanding of the proposed materials can introduce new perspectives for the development of high‐voltage cathode materials for SIBs.
Engineering the Morphology and Component via Multistep Deposition of CsPbBr3Films toward High Detectivity and Stable Self‐Powered Photodetectors
Authors: Luo Manman , Yan Shikai , Wei Changting , Xue Lu , Liu Chengjun , Fayemi Omolola Esther , Bae Byung Seong , Shafie Suhaidi Bin , Xiao Mei , Li Qing , Zhao Zhiwei , Wu Jun , Lei Wei , Zhang Xiaobing
Published: May 2022

Self‐powered perovskite photodetectors (PDs) have attracted tremendous interest for their promising advantages such as fast response speed and high detectivity. However, they usually suffer from severe operating instability issues stemming from the poor film quality, impurity phase formation, and numerous surface defects. Herein, the high performance and stable self‐powered PD based on CsPbBr3film is demonstrated using a multistep spin‐coating method. The annealing temperature of lead bromide (PbBr2) films and the spin‐cycles of cesium bromide (CsBr) are prioritized, which are two key factors for realizing efficient devices during multistep deposition of perovskite films. Results illustrate that these two factors affect the crystallization, covering properties, and the composition of the final film. The CsPbBr3film prepared from PbBr2treatment at 100 °C and CsBr spin‐coating for 8‐cycles has full coverage, higher phase purity, larger grain size, higher crystallinity, and fewer defects compared with the other counterparts. Therefore, the self‐powered PD based on optimized CsPbBr3film achieves an excellent specific detectivity of 7.01 × 1012Jones at 520 nm at 0 V bias voltage. In addition, 96.6% of the original photocurrent can be maintained after operating for 3600 s with 93% long‐term storage (8 weeks) in ambient air, indicating its potential applications in optoelectronics field.
Nearly 100% Exciton Utilization via Hybridized Inter‐ and Intramolecular Triplet Exciton Harvesting Channels in Blue Fluorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lee Hakjun , Patil Vilas Venunath , Lim Junseop , Min Byeong Ki , Rhee Young Min , Kim Young Kwan , Kim Taekyung , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: May 2022

A highly efficient anthracene‐based 5‐(4‐(10‐phenylanthracen‐9‐yl)phenyl)‐5H‐benzofuro[3,2‐c]carbazole (ATDBF) with nearly 100% exciton utilization efficiency is developed for highly efficient nondoped blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) through inter‐ and intramolecular triplet exciton up‐converting mechanisms. The ATDBF emitter opens hybridized hot excitons, triplet–triplet fusion (TTF), and mixed TTF/hot exciton channels for triplet exciton to singlet exciton conversion. The molecular design adopting a benzofuro[3,2‐c]carbazole (BFCz) donor manages the singlet and triplet excited states for hybridized triplet exciton up‐conversion mechanisms, which enable a high external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 7.93% in the ATDBF blue device with color coordinates of (0.15, 0.06). This is one of the best efficiencies of the nondoped blue OLEDs with a y color coordinate below 0.06.
Recent Advances of Thiamine in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Ning , Yu Xue , Zhang Yuewei
Published: May 2022

Thiamine (VB1) has been proved to be a powerful biocatalyst for various organic transformations. VB1 offers several unique advantages, such as economical, non‐toxic, stable and water soluble. Excellent outcomes have been achieved in synthetic applications using VB1 as a catalyst. This review summarizes recent developments in the field of VB1 biocatalysis, allowing the construction of various biologically active heterocyclic scaffolds.

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Unraveling the Simultaneous Enhancement of Selectivity and Durability on Single‐Crystalline Gold Particles for Electrochemical CO2 Reduction
Authors: Lim Yun Ji , Seo Dongho , Abbas Syed Asad , Jung Haeun , Ma Ahyeon , Lee Kug‐Seung , Lee Gaehang , Lee Hosik , Nam Ki Min
Published: May 2022

Electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction is a mild and eco‐friendly approach for CO2 mitigation and producing value‐added products. For selective electrochemical CO2 reduction, single‐crystalline Au particles (octahedron, truncated‐octahedron, and sphere) are synthesized by consecutive growth and chemical etching using a polydiallyldimethylammonium chloride (polyDDA) surfactant, and are surface‐functionalized. Monodisperse, single‐crystalline Au nanoparticles provide an ideal platform for evaluating the Au surface as a CO2reduction catalyst. The polyDDA‐Au cathode affords high catalytic activity for CO production, with >90% Faradaic efficiency over a wide potential range between −0.4 and −1.0 V versus RHE, along with high durability owing to the consecutive interaction between dimethylammonium and chloride on the Au surface. The influence of polyDDA on the Au particles, and the origins of the enhanced selectivity and stability are fully investigated using theoretical studies. Chemically adsorbed polyDDA is consecutively affected the initial adsorption of CO2 and the stability of the *CO2, *COOH, and *CO intermediates during continuous CO2 reduction reaction. The polyDDA functionalization is extended to improving the CO Faradaic efficiency of other metal catalysts such as Ag and Zn, indicating its broad applicability for CO2 reduction.
Gerüsterweiterung eines Silicoids um ein einzelnes Germaniumatom über isolierte Zwischenprodukte
Authors: Poitiers Nadine E. , Huch Volker , Morgenstern Bernd , Zimmer Michael , Scheschkewitz David
Published: May 2022

Das Wachstum von (Halb‐)Metallclustern ist entscheidend für Keimbildungsprozesse in gasförmigen und kondensierten Phasen. Wir berichten nun über die Isolierung von Zwischenprodukten während der Erweiterung eines stabilen, ungesättigten Siliciumclusters (Silicoid) um ein einzelnes Germaniumatom durch eine Abfolge von Substitution, Umlagerung und Reduktion. Die Reaktion von ligato‐lithiiertem Hexasilabenzpolaren LiSi6Tip5 (Li⋅(thf)2, Tip=2,4,6‐Triisopropylphenyl) mit GeCl2⋅NHC (NHC=1,3‐Diisopropyl‐4,5‐dimethylimidazol‐2‐yliden) liefert zunächst das Produkt mit exohedraler Germanium(II)‐Funktionalität, die dann in eine Si−Si Bindung des Si6‐Gerüsts insertiert. Die gleichzeitige Übertragung der Chlorfunktionalität von Germanium auf ein benachbartes Siliciumatom bewahrt die elektronenpräzise Natur des gebildeten endohedralen Germylens. Der vollständige Einbau des Germaniumheteroatoms in den Si6Ge‐Clusterkern wird schließlich entweder durch Reduktion unter Verlust des koordinierenden NHC oder direkt durch Reaktion von 1Li⋅(thf)2 mit GeCl2⋅1,4‐Dioxan erreicht.
Design, synthesis, and biological activity of novel dithiocarbamate‐methylsulfonyl hybrids as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors
Authors: Osmaniye Derya , Türkeş Cüneyt , Demir Yeliz , Özkay Yusuf , Beydemir Şükrü , Kaplancıklı Zafer A.
Published: May 2022

Carbonic anhydrase (CA) enzymes are involved in many physiological events. These enzymes, which contain Zn2+ in their structure, can be easily inhibited by dithiocarbamate compounds. In addition, CA enzyme inhibitory activities are known in groups such as sulfonamide and methylsulfonyl. For this purpose, in this study, a series of 23 new dithiocarbamate‐methylsulfonyl derivatives were synthesized and their CA enzyme inhibitory activities were investigated. The inhibition potentials of the obtained compounds against the human CA I and CA II enzymes were investigated by the in vitro enzyme isolation method. It is seen that the compounds show activity at the nanomolar level. Molecular docking studies of the compounds were carried out by in silico methods. The poses of compounds 2a, 2e, 2o, and 2t are presented.
Utility Resilience and the Pandemic's Influence
Authors: Kumar Prabha , Borchers Michael , Nayar Subodh
Published: May 2022

Key Takeaways

Four utility leaders discussed realities for their utilities one year into the COVID‐19 pandemic, highlighting key adaptive mechanisms and the long view of their road ahead.

The pandemic provides an introspective mirror for utilities to assess their inherent strengths and vulnerabilities, but also to define and communicate proactive and adaptive best practices.

In the utility sector, decisions of the past dictate the feasible range of responses in the present, and lessons learned today shape potential long‐term resilience.
Do not forget the classical catalyst poisons: The case of biomass to glycols via catalytic hydrogenolysis
Authors: te Molder Thimo D. J. , Kersten Sascha R. A. , Lange Jean‐Paul , Ruiz M. Pilar
Published: May 2022

The conversion of herbaceous biomass to glycols via tungstate catalyzed hydrogenolysis is challenging owing to its high content of extractives, inorganics and S/N, compared with woody biomass. We tested the hydrogenolysis performance of hay in batch autoclave experiments in the presence of soluble sodium polytungstate and Raney Ni at 245°C, both in excess of catalyst as well as under catalyst‐starving conditions. By this method, we found that additional tungstate and Raney Ni poisons, or at least their much higher concentrations, are present in the hay feedstock compared with woody biomass. It turns out that N‐ and in particular S‐containing components present in hay are the root cause for deactivation of the hydrogenation catalyst. From the experimental data we have derived feedstock criteria for N and S that should be targeted in terms of catalyst consumption for operation in an industrially relevant window. These challenging criteria urge the development of effective pretreatments for S/N removal or the employment of S/N‐tolerant catalysts in the field of catalytic biomass conversion. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Agri‐biomass‐based bio‐energy supply model: An inclusive sustainable and circular economy approach for a self‐resilient rural India
Authors: Chaudhary Ved Prakash , Chandra Ram , Denis Derrick Mario , D'Silva Tinku Casper , Isha Adya
Published: May 2022

The present study evaluated the potential of a self‐resilient rural bio‐energy model using a case study from a village in Uttar Pradesh, India. A total biogas potential of 400 329 m3/year was estimated from area using agricultural residues and livestock wastes, thus capable of establishing biogas plants in a centralized (20 to 100 m3) or decentralized (2 to 20 m3) manner. For the three scenarios were considered in this study, i.e., (I) combined electricity and thermal energy generation, (II) for direct cooking, and (III) according to energy requirements, a maximum electricity generation and thermal energy potential were estimated to up to 800 658 and 1 200 988 kWh. A maximum amount of 162 646 kg.year–1 of firewood, 443 190 kg.year–1 of dung cake, 70 996 kg.year–1 of charcoal and 13 713 kg of liquified petroleum gas could be replaced using produced raw biogas, which is even higher if the biogas is upgraded. In the third scenario, a maximum surplus amount of 169 894 m3.year–1 of raw biogas and 221 969 m3.year–1 of upgraded biogas are available if all the available wastes are co‐digested. Vast cost opportunities and greenhouse gas emission reduction could result from replacing conventional cooking fuel and chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizer, contributing to the local circular economy. Eventually, the study proposes and discusses a self‐resilient bio‐energy model comprising energy demand fulfillment, sustainability, and a circular economy for rural India. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnostic accuracy of de‐escalated surgical procedure in axilla for node‐positive breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Yu‐xin , Xu Zheng , Liang Ming‐xing , Liu Zhen , Hou Jun‐chen , Chen Xiu , Xu Di , Fei Yin‐jiao , Tang Jin‐hai
Published: May 2022

Background

More initial clinical node‐positive breast cancer patients achieve axillary pathological complete response (ax‐pCR) after neoadjuvant systemic therapy (NST). Restaging axillary status and performing de‐escalated surgical procedures to replace routine axillary lymph nodes dissection (ALND) is urgently needed. Targeted axillary lymph node biopsy (TLNB) is a novel de‐escalated surgical strategy marking metastatic axillary nodes before NST and targeted dissection and biopsy intraoperatively to tailor individual axillary management.

Methods

This study provided a systematic review and meta‐analysis to evaluate the feasibility and diagnosis accuracy of TLNB. Prospective and retrospective clinical trials on TLNB were searched from Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane. Identification rate (IFR), false‐negative rate (FNR), negative predictive value (NPV), and rate of ax‐pCR were the outcomes of this meta‐analysis.

Results

One thousand nine hundred and twenty patients attempted TLNB, with an overall IFR of 93.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 90.1%–96.2%). IFR of three nodal marking methods, namely iodine seeds, clips, and carbon dye, was 95.6% (95% CI 91.2%–98.7%), 91.7% (95% CI 87.3%–95.4%), and 97.1% (95% CI 89.1%–100.0%), respectively. Of them, 847 patients received ALND, with an overall FNR of 5.5% (95% CI 3.3%–8.0%), and NPV ranged from 90.1% to 96.1%. Regression analysis showed that the overlap of targeted and sentinel biopsied nodes might associate with IFRs and FNRs.

Conclusion

TLNB is a novel, less invasive surgical approach to distinguish initial node‐positive breast cancer that achieves negative axillary conversion after NST. It yields an excellent IFR with a low FNR and a high NPV. A combination of preoperative imaging, intraoperative TLNB with SLNB, and postoperative nodal radiotherapy might affect the future treatment paradigm of primary breast cancer with nodal metastases.
Iridoid Glycosides from Phlomis Medicinalis Diels: Optimized Extraction and Hemostasis Evaluation
Authors: Lu Sitong , Zhang Zhaoyu , Liang Youling , Zhong Qingkun , Li Guangfa , Hu Zhang
Published: May 2022

Phlomis medicinalis Diels, an important perennial herbal plant unique to the Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau, is often used as Tibetan Materia Medicine Radix Phlomii for the treatment of cold, cough, and convergence trauma. In order to efficiently extract the iridoid glycosides from P. medicinalis, an ultrasound‐assisted deep eutectic solvent extraction technique was employed. The main parameters influencing the extraction process were studied through single‐factor tests and the extraction was optimized by using response surface methodology. The hemostasis activity of total iridoid glycosides (TIG) from P. medicinalis was evaluated in vitro and in mice. The optimization results revealed that the optimal process parameters were liquid‐solid ratio 20 : 1, choline chloride‐lactic acid concentration 79 %, and sonication time 34 min, under which a TIG extraction yield of 20.73 % was obtained. Meanwhile, high‐performance liquid chromatography‐photodiode array/mass spectrometry (HPLC‐PDA/MS) was employed to characterize the optimized extract and indicated that TIG from P. medicinalis mainly consisted of sixteen reported iridoid glycosides with a total content of 91.22 %. The experimental results in vivo and in vitro indicated that TIG from P. medicinalis had strong hemostasis activities, which may be achieved by increasing the fibrinogen levels. Therefore, the ultrasound‐assisted deep eutectic solvent extraction is an effective method to extract iridoid glycosides from P. medicinalis and they will be promising candidates to be developed for medical hemostasis agents.
Middle Scale Hydrogen Sulphide Conversion and Valorisation Technologies: A Review
Authors: Spatolisano Elvira , de Angelis Alberto R. , Pellegrini Laura A.
Published: May 2022

The growing energy demand, together with the depletion of sweet gas reservoirs, impose the monetization of ultra‐sour natural gas fields with a high H2S content. To date, in large scale facilities, H2S is removed from natural gas through amine washing and it is converted to sulphur in the Claus process. The Claus process is the leading H2S conversion technology for large scale applications. Regarding small scale plants, scavengers are the most efficient and widely spread choice. On the other hand, present middle scale options show quite high operating costs. Therefore, research efforts are devoted to developing new intermediate scale alternatives with lower costs and easier operability. When developing a new process, the study of the state‐of‐the‐art is the first essential step. No systematic review of H2S valorisation technologies is available in literature. To fill this gap, the aim of this work is to summarize the available processes considering both commercial and novel tendencies for H2S conversion. For each technology, details about process operating conditions are discussed and the typical application is provided, when possible, together with the corresponding pros and cons.
Protein‐Protein Recognition Involved in the Intermodular Transacylation Reaction in Modular Polyketide Synthase in the Biosynthesis of Vicenistatin
Authors: Chisuga Taichi , Miyanaga Akimasa , Eguchi Tadashi
Published: May 2022

The ketosynthase (KS) domain is a core domain found in modular polyketide synthases (PKSs). To maintain the polyketide biosynthetic fidelity, the KS domain must only accept an acyl group from the acyl carrier protein (ACP) domain of the immediate upstream module even when they are separated into different polypeptides. Although it was reported that both the docking domain‐based interactions and KS‐ACP compatibility are important for the interpolypeptide transacylation reaction in 6‐deoxyerythronolide B synthase, it is not clear whether these findings are broadly applied to other modular PKSs. Herein, we describe the importance of protein‐protein recognition in the intermodular transacylation between VinP1 module 3 and VinP2 module 4 in vicenistatin biosynthesis. We compared the transacylation activity and crosslinking efficiency of VinP2 KS4 against the cognate VinP1 ACP3 with the noncognate one. As a result, it appeared that VinP2 KS4 distinguishes the cognate ACP3 from other ACPs.
Grain, flour, and batter properties estimating cake baking potential of wheat flour
Authors: Baik Byung‐Kee , Donelson Thomas
Published: May 2022

Background and Objectives

The experimental baking test is lengthy, low in throughput and not appropriate for evaluating the large number of wheat flours for baking cakes. To explore effective and efficient tools for the estimation of wheat grain and flour quality for making cakes, grain, flour, and batter characteristics were analyzed and their relationships with cake quality parameters were determined.

Findings

Kernel hardness and solvent retention capacities (SRCs) exhibited negative relationships with cake volume. The flow distances and rapid visco analyzer viscosities of flour–water and flour–sucrose batters effectively differentiated wheat flour of varying characteristics, and showed significant relationships with cake volume.

Conclusions

SRCs and flour–water and flour–sucrose batter viscosities are associated with cake volume and could effectively estimate flour quality for baking cakes. Low kernel hardness and low solvent absorption/retention of flour are desirable for baking cakes. Flour–water and flour–sucrose batters that are less viscous and more fluid produce cakes with higher volumes.

Significance and Novelty

The identification of grain, flour, and batter characteristics as effective estimates of cake baking quality would greatly benefit breeders in the screening of breeding lines and millers and bakers in the selection of wheat grain flour for baking cakes.
Electrochemically Exfoliated Layered Carbons as Sustainable Anode Materials for Lead Carbon Hybrid Ultracapacitor
Authors: Muduli Sadananda , Pappu Samhita , Bulusu Sarada V. , Rao Tata N. , Martha Surendra K.
Published: May 2022

Lead‐carbon hybrid ultracapacitors (Pb−C HUC) have become apparent as a way out of the sulfation issue of lead‐acid batteries, simultaneously enhancing the system‘s power density and cycle life. In this work, exfoliated graphene oxides (EGO) were synthesized by the electrochemical exfoliation method followed by chemical activation and carbonization at 600 °C (AEGO‐600). The composite electrode delivered 800 F g−1 capacitance at 1 A g−1. The Pb−C HUC fabricated using AEGO‐600 anode and PbO2 cathode can achieve capacitance of 325 F g−1 at 10 A g−1 and retain 71 % capacitance after 15000 charge‐discharge cycles in the voltage range of 2.3–0.8 V. The highly stable capacitance was due to the formation of layered carbons in AEGO‐600 that enhanced the favorable electrolyte ion assessment to maximum active sites. Owing to the facile, cost‐effective synthesis approach and better charge storage behavior, the activated‐exfoliated graphene oxides thus produced could be suitable candidates for future hybrid ultracapacitor systems.
Methyl Viologens of Bis‐(4’‐Pyridylethynyl)Arenes – Structures, Photophysical and Electrochemical Studies, and their Potential Application in Biology
Authors: Kole Goutam Kumar , Košćak Marta , Amar Anissa , Majhen Dragomira , Božinović Ksenija , Brkljaca Zlatko , Ferger Matthias , Michail Evripidis , Lorenzen Sabine , Friedrich Alexandra , Krummenacher Ivo , Moos Michael , Braunschweig Holger , Boucekkine Abdou , Lambert Christoph , Halet Jean‐François , Piantanida Ivo , Müller‐Buschbaum Klaus , Marder Todd B.
Published: May 2022

A series of bis‐(4’‐pyridylethynyl)arenes (arene=benzene, tetrafluorobenzene, and anthracene) were synthesized and their bis‐N‐methylpyridinium compounds were investigated as a class of π‐extended methyl viologens. Their structures were determined by single crystal X‐ray diffraction, and their photophysical and electrochemical properties (cyclic voltammetry), as well as their interactions with DNA/RNA were investigated. The dications showed bathochromic shifts in emission compared to the neutral compounds. The neutral compounds showed very small Stokes shifts, which are a little larger for the dications. All of the compounds showed very short fluorescence lifetimes (<4 ns). The neutral compound with an anthracene core has a quantum yield of almost unity. With stronger acceptors, the analogous bis‐N‐methylpyridinium compound showed a larger two‐photon absorption cross‐section than its neutral precursor. All of the dicationic compounds interact with DNA/RNA; while the compounds with benzene and tetrafluorobenzene cores bind in the grooves, the one with an anthracene core intercalates as a consequence of its large, condensed aromatic linker moiety, and it aggregates within the polynucleotide when in excess over DNA/RNA. Moreover, all cationic compounds showed highly specific CD spectra upon binding to ds‐DNA/RNA, attributed to the rare case of forcing the planar, achiral molecule into a chiral rotamer, and negligible toxicity toward human cell lines at ≤10 μM concentrations. The anthracene‐analogue exhibited intracellular accumulation within lysosomes, preventing its interaction with cellular DNA/RNA. However, cytotoxicity was evident at 1 μM concentration upon exposure to light, due to singlet oxygen generation within cells. These multi‐faceted features, in combination with its two‐photon absorption properties, suggest it to be a promising lead compound for development of novel light‐activated theranostic agents.
Association between metabolic syndrome and left ventricular geometric change including diastolic dysfunction
Authors: Lee Seung‐Jae , Kim Hyunah , Oh Byeong Kil , Choi Hyo‐In , Sung Ki‐Chul , Kang Jeonggyu , Lee Mi Yeon , Lee Jong‐Young
Published: May 2022

Background

We investigated the association between individual components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and left ventricular (LV) geometric changes, including diastolic dysfunction, in a large cohort of healthy individuals.

Methods

Overall, 148 461 adults who underwent echocardiography during a health‐screening program were enrolled. Geographic characteristics on echocardiography and several markers of LV relaxation function were identified according to individual MetS components. Univariate linear regression analysis and a multivariate regression model adjusted for factors known to influence LV relaxation function were conducted.

Results

The prevalence of LV diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) was higher in the MetS group than in the non‐MetS group (0.56% vs. 0.27%, p < .001). In univariate and multivariate analyses, E/A ratio, e′ velocity, and left atrial volume index were significantly associated with each component of MetS and covariates (all p ≤ .001). In the age‐ and sex‐adjusted model, MetS was significantly associated with LVDD (odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.350 [1.103, 1.652]). However, subjects with more MetS components did not have a significantly higher risk of LVDD. As the analysis was stratified by sex, the multivariate regression model showed that MetS was significantly associated with LVDD only in men (1.3 [1.00, 1.68]) with higher risk in more MetS component (p for trend < .001). In particular, triglyceride (TG) and waist circumference (WC) among MetS components were significantly associated with LVDD in men.

Conclusions

MetS was associated with the risk of LVDD, especially in men, with a dose‐dependent association between an increasing number of components of MetS and LVDD. TG and WC were independent risk factors for LVDD in men.
Nucleation Temperature‐Dependent Synthesis of Polytypic CuInSe2 Nanostructures with Variable Tetrapod‐Like and Core‐Shell Morphologies
Authors: Huang Fei , Ning Jiajia , Tian Jianjun , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: May 2022

Despite the merits of low toxicity and light absorption/emission in the near‐infrared spectral range, synthesis of polytypic CuInSe2 nanocrystals is challenging. Herein, we demonstrate a synthetic approach to produce polytypic CuInSe2 nanocrystals with variable morphologies, such as tetrapods with short or long arms; core/shell nanostructures; and hollow structures formed due to the Kirkendale effect. All polytypic CuInSe2 nanostructures realized in this work consist of a core with a chalcopyrite phase, and arms or shells with a wurtzite phase. With increasing nucleation temperature, the size of the chalcopyrite core gradually increases, while the arms or shells become smaller/thinner, due to the competition between nucleation and growth. This work provides guidance towards the synthesis of polytypic CuInSe2 nanocrystals with tunable size and morphology, and enriches the family of available CuInSe2 nanostructures.
Pneumocephalus as result of nonsurgical peri‐implantitis treatment with an air‐polishing device for submucosal debridement—A case report
Authors: Bruckmann Corinna , Bruckmann Lukas , Gahleitner André , Stavropoulos Andreas , Bertl Kristina
Published: May 2022

Background

A subcutaneous emphysema is an infrequent but potentially life‐threatening complication after dental treatment involving instruments functioning with pressurized air. Emphysemata after the use of high‐speed handpieces and air‐syringes are well documented, however, more recently several reports on emphysemata produced by air‐polishing devices during management of peri‐implant biological complications have appeared. To the best of our knowledge, direct development of pneumocephalus after a dental procedure has never been reported before. Introduction of air likely contaminated with oral bacteria to the intracranial space bares the risk of developing meningitis.

Case Presentation

This case report describes the spreading of a subcutaneous emphysema into the intracranial space (i.e., development of a pneumocephalus) after treatment of a peri‐implantitis lesion with an air‐polishing device equipped with the nozzle for submucosal debridement. A subcutaneous emphysema was noticed during the use of an air‐polishing device and the subsequent computed tomography (CT) examination revealed a quite unexpected spreading of the emphysema into the intracranial space. The patient was admitted to the hospital for close surveillance, CT follow‐up, and intravenous antibiotics to prevent the development of meningitis due to the introduction of air—likely contaminated with oral bacteria—into the intracranial space. After 3 days, the patient was discharged in good condition without any further complications.

Conclusion

In case of an extensive subcutaneous emphysema as result of a dental procedure, a more extended radiographic examination including the mediastinal and cranial space should be considered, to assess the risk for potentially life‐threatening complications.
The N&P Co‐doped Lotus Root Derived Carbon Materials for Highly Sensitive Electrochemical Analysis of Baicalein and Luteolin
Authors: Lu Youluan , Mu Xinwei , Liu Yaopeng , Gao Yi , Shi Zhen , Zheng Yin , Huang Wensheng
Published: May 2022

The application of biomass‐based carbon materials in electrochemical sensing was limited due to their few active sites. So N and P double doped biomass pyrolytic carbon materials were designed in this paper. These gained materials were characterized by a series of characterization test techniques, and used as electrode modification to construct electrochemical sensors to detect baicalein (BA) and luteolin (LU). Under the best test condition, the minimum detectability of BA and LU was (7.8±0.25)×10−9 mol/L and (7.6±0.24)×10−9 mol/L (S/N=3), respectively. And the sensor performed well in the Shuanghuanglian oral liquid and the healthy human urine samples.
Listeria monocytogenes in foods—From culture identification to whole‐genome characteristics
Authors: Osek Jacek , Lachtara Beata , Wieczorek Kinga
Published: May 2022

Listeria monocytogenes is an important foodborne pathogen, which is able to persist in the food production environments. The presence of these bacteria in different niches makes them a potential threat for public health. In the present review, the current information on the classical and alternative methods used for isolation and identification of L. monocytogenes in food have been described. Although these techniques are usually simple, standardized, inexpensive, and are routinely used in many food testing laboratories, several alternative molecular‐based approaches for the bacteria detection in food and food production environments have been developed. They are characterized by the high sample throughput, a short time of analysis, and cost‐effectiveness. However, these methods are important for the routine testing toward the presence and number of L. monocytogenes, but are not suitable for characteristics and typing of the bacterial isolates, which are crucial in the study of listeriosis infections. For these purposes, novel approaches, with a high discriminatory power to genetically distinguish the strains during epidemiological studies, have been developed, e.g., whole‐genome sequence‐based techniques such as NGS which provide an opportunity to perform comparison between strains of the same species. In the present review, we have shown a short description of the principles of microbiological, alternative, and modern methods of detection of L. monocytogenes in foods and characterization of the isolates for epidemiological purposes. According to our knowledge, similar comprehensive papers on such subject have not been recently published, and we hope that the current review may be interesting for research communities.
Measuring biological materials mechanics with atomic force microscopy ‐ Mechanical unfolding of biopolymers
Authors: Gil‐Redondo Juan Carlos , Weber Andreas , Toca‐Herrera José L.
Published: May 2022

Biopolymers, such as polynucleotides, polypeptides and polysaccharides, are macromolecules that direct most of the functions in living beings. Studying the mechanical unfolding of biopolymers provides important information about their molecular elasticity and mechanical stability, as well as their energy landscape, which is especially important in proteins, since their three‐dimensional structure is essential for their correct activity. In this primer, we present how to study the mechanical properties of proteins with atomic force microscopy and how to obtain information about their stability and energetic landscape. In particular, we discuss the preparation of polyprotein constructs suitable for AFM single molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS), describe the parameters used in our force‐extension SMFS experiments and the models and equations employed in the analysis of the data. As a practical example, we show the effect of the temperature on the unfolding force, the distance to the transition state, the unfolding rate at zero force, the height of the transition state barrier, and the spring constant of the protein for a construct containing nine repeats of the I27 domain from the muscle protein titin.

Highlights

1. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) can be used to study the mechanical unfolding of polymers.

2. AFM provides a direct measurement of unfolding (unbinding) forces.

3. Force measurements for different rates provide information about the distance to the transition state and the unfolding rate at zero force.
Pulmonary vein isolation alone versus pulmonary vein isolation with additional extensive ablation for paroxysmal and persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Junarta Joey , Dikdan Sean J. , Upadhyay Naman , Molin Andrea , Bodempudi Sairamya , Warner Eric , Joffe Daniel , Pang Zachary , Frisch Daniel R.
Published: May 2022

Background

The value of additional ablation beyond pulmonary vein isolation for atrial fibrillation (AF) ablation is unclear, especially for persistent AF. It is uncertain whether substrate modification with additional extensive ablation improves outcomes. We reviewed our experience to determine whether pulmonary vein isolation with additional extensive ablation (PVIEA) improves outcomes compared to pulmonary vein isolation alone (PVIA) for AF ablation.

Methods

Consecutive cases of patients with PVIA versus PVIEA were compared between September 9, 2013 and December 12, 2020. Procedural data collected include radiofrequency ablation delivery time (RADT) and arrhythmia inducibility. Clinical data collected include sinus rhythm maintenance post‐procedure.

Results

A total of 235 patients were studied (67 PVIA and 168 PVIEA). RADT was shorter when comparing ablation with PVIA versus PVIEA (32 vs. 40 min; p = .04). More arrhythmias were inducible with PVIEA (p < .01). There was no difference in sinus rhythm maintenance by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis (log‐rank test p = .75), after 3 or 12 months between groups overall, and when stratified by AF type (paroxysmal and persistent), left atrial volume, CHA2DS2‐VASc score, left ventricular ejection fraction, or catheter ablation setting (high‐power short‐duration, standard‐power standard‐duration, temperature‐controlled non‐contact‐force).

Conclusion

AF ablation with PVIA or PVIEA produces similar sinus rhythm maintenance overall and when stratified by catheter setting and AF type. PVIA reduced procedure times and less arrhythmias were inducible post‐ablation.
Inhibitory effects of chitosan grafted chlorogenic acid on antioxidase activity, and lipid and protein oxidation of sea bass (Lateolabrax japonicus) fillets stored at 4 °C
Authors: Yang Xin , Lan Weiqing , Zhao XinYu , Lang Ai , Xie Jing
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Sea bass (Lateolabrax japonicus), a marine fish, is prone to spoilage due to its high nutritional value. Preservatives are commonly used for storage for the production of fish fillets. In this work, chitosan (CS) was grafted onto chlorogenic acid (CA) to obtain a new preservative, chitosan grafted chlorogenic acid (CS‐g‐CA), which could enhance the biochemical properties of chitosan and obtain better antibacterial and antibacterial properties. This study therefore investigated the inhibitory effects of CS‐g‐CA on antioxidant enzyme activity, and lipid and protein oxidation of sea bass fillets stored at 4 °C.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group on day 9, the activity of 63% catalase (CAT), 78% superoxide diamidase (SOD), 73% glutathione peroxide enzyme (GSH‐Px) and 60% DPPH scavenging activity was retained by CS‐g‐CA treatment. Changes in thiobarbituric acid (TBA) and conjugated diene (CD) values were delayed by CS‐g‐CA treatment. The use of CS‐g‐CA retards protein oxidation by inhibiting the formation of free amino acid and carbonyl groups, and maintaining a higher sulfhydryl content. Regarding myofibril degradation, CS‐g‐CA could maintain protein secondary structure by increasing the ratio of α‐helices.

CONCLUSIONS

Chitosan‐grafted chlorogenic acid could protect the activity of antioxidant enzymes and inhibit lipid oxidation by slowing down the production of lipid oxidation products. It also delayed protein oxidation by inhibiting oxidation product generation and stabilizing protein structure. It could therefore be used as a promising preservative for seafood. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Comparative Diagnostic Performance of Estimated Fetal Weight and Isolated Abdominal Circumference for the Detection of Fetal Growth Restriction
Authors: Whitham Megan D. , Reynolds David M. , Urban Amanda R. , Ennen Christopher S. , Dudley Donald J.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To describe the comparative incidence, detection of small‐for‐gestational age (SGA), and composite perinatal morbidity (CPM) associated with diagnostic criteria of fetal growth restriction (FGR) by estimated fetal weight (EFW) <10% with those with isolated abdominal circumference (AC) measurements <10%.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 1587 patients receiving prenatal care and delivery at our institution. We included all patients with ultrasounds and delivery outcomes available, and excluded terminations, second trimester losses, and pregnancies without ultrasounds. EFW was calculated from Hadlock and use of the Duryea centiles, and AC from Hadlock's reference curves. We determined SGA at birth and defined CPM as birthweight less than 3% or birthweight less than 10% with neonatal morbidity.

Results

Of 1587 patients, 28 (1.8%) were classified as FGR by EFW <10%. Three of 12 patients with isolated AC <10% developed EFW <10% later in pregnancy (25%). The performance of each diagnostic criteria were comparable for the outcomes of SGA and CPM, with similar sensitivities, but with decreased specificity for SGA outcome, and an increased false positive rate for patients classified as FGR by isolated AC <10, with a tradeoff of decreased false negatives.

Conclusions

Broadening the diagnosis of FGR to include patients with isolated AC <10 did not significantly increase the detection of pregnancies at risk for SGA or CPM. Our conclusions may be limited by a lack of statistical power given a low frequency of SGA and CPM.
Genetic variants in DDO and PEX5L in peroxisome‐related pathways predict non‐small cell lung cancer survival
Authors: Chen Allan S. , Liu Hongliang , Wu Yufeng , Luo Sheng , Patz Edward F. , Glass Carolyn , Su Li , Du Mulong , Christiani David C. , Wei Qingyi
Published: May 2022

Peroxisomes play a role in lipid metabolism and regulation of reactive oxygen species, but its role in development and progression of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is not well understood. Here, we investigated the associations between 9708 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 113 genes in the peroxisome‐related pathways and survival of NSCLC patients from the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial (PLCO) and the Harvard Lung Cancer Susceptibility (HLCS) study. In 1185 NSCLC patients from the PLCO trial, we found that 213 SNPs were significantly associated with NSCLC overall survival (OS) (p ≤ 0.05, Bayesian false discovery probability [BFDP] ≤ 0.80), of which eight SNPs were validated in the HLCS data set. In a multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression model, two independent SNPs (rs9384742 DDO and rs9825224 PEX5L) were significantly associated with NSCLC survival (hazards ratios [HR] of 1.17 with 95% CI [confidence interval] of 1.06−1.28 and 0.86 with 95% CI of 0.77−0.96, respectively). Patients with one or two protective genotypes had a significantly higher OS (HR: 0.787 [95% CI: 0.620−0.998] and 0.691 [95% CI: 0.543−0.879], respectively). Further expression quantitative trait loci analysis using whole blood and lung tissue showed that the minor allele of rs9384742 DDO was significantly associated with decreased messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels and that DDO expression was also decreased in NSCLC tumor tissue. Additionally, high PEX5L expression levels were significantly associated with lower survival of NSCLC. Our data suggest that variants in these peroxisome‐related genes may influence gene regulation and are potential predictors of NSCLC OS, once validated by additional studies.
The Chinese Parkinson's Disease Registry (CPDR): Study Design and Baseline Patient Characteristics
Authors: Zhou Xiaoxia , Liu Zhenhua , Zhou Xiaoting , Xiang Yaqin , Zhou Zhou , Zhao Yuwen , Pan Hongxu , Xu Qian , Chen Yase , Sun Qiying , Wu Xinyin , Tan Hongzhuan , Li Bin , Yuan Kai , Xie Yali , Liao Weihua , Hu Shuo , Zhu Jianping , Wu Xuehong , Li Jianhua , Wang Chunyu , Lei Lifang , Tang Jiayu , Liu Yonghong , Wu Heng , Huang Wei , Wang Tao , Xue Zheng , Wang Puqing , Zhang Zhentao , Xu Ping , Chen Ling , Wang Qing , Wang Xuejing , Cheng Oumei , Shen Yuefei , Liu Weiguo , Ye Min , You Yong , Li Jinchen , Yan Xinxiang , Guo Jifeng , Tang Beisha ,   for Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders Multicenter Database and Collaborative Network in China (PD‐MDCNC)
Published: May 2022

Background

There is a lack of large multicenter Parkinson's disease (PD) cohort studies and limited data on the natural history of PD in China.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to launch the Chinese Parkinson's Disease Registry (CPDR) and to report its protocol, cross‐sectional baseline data, and prospects for a comprehensive observational, longitudinal, multicenter study.

Methods

The CPDR recruited PD patients from 19 clinical sites across China between January 2018 and December 2020. Clinical data were collected prospectively using at least 17 core assessment scales. Patients were followed up for clinical outcomes through face‐to‐face interviews biennially.

Results

We launched the CPDR in China based on the Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders Multicenter Database and Collaborative Network (PD‐MDCNC). A total of 3148 PD patients were enrolled comprising 1623 men (51.6%) and 1525 women (48.4%). The proportions of early‐onset PD (EOPD, age at onset ≤50 years) and late‐onset PD (LOPD) were 897 (28.5%) and 2251 (71.5%), respectively. Stratification by age at onset showed that EOPD manifested milder motor and nonmotor phenotypes and was related to increased probability of dyskinesia. Comparison across genders suggested a slightly older average age at PD onset, milder motor symptoms, and a higher rate of developing levodopa‐induced dyskinesias in women.

Conclusions

The CPDR is one of the largest multicenter, observational, longitudinal, and natural history studies of PD in China. It offers an opportunity to expand the understanding of clinical features, genetic, imaging, and biological markers of PD progression. © 2022 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
About a fixed‐point‐type transformation to solve quadratic matrix equations using the Krasnoselskij method
Authors: Hernández‐Verón Miguel Ángel , Romero‐Álvarez Natalia
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we study the simplest quadratic matrix equation: . We transform this equation into an equivalent fixed‐point equation, and based on it, we construct the Krasnoselskij method. From this transformation, we can obtain iterative schemes more accurate than the successive approximation method. Moreover, under suitable conditions, we establish different results for the existence and localization of a solution for this equation with the Krasnoselskij method. Finally, we see numerically that the predictor–corrector iterative scheme, with the Krasnoselskij method as a predictor and the Newton method as corrector method, can improve the numerical application of the Newton method when approximating a solution of the quadratic matrix equation.
Flexible and Lightweight RGB LED Video Foil for Digital Signage
Authors: Kall Florian , Blankenbach Karlheinz
Published: May 2022

Method reduces cost, weight, regulations, and complicated installation associated with traditional signage.