bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nanocatalyst Design for Long‐Term Operation of Proton/Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Jin Haneul , Ruqia Bibi , Park Yeji , Kim Hee Jin , Oh Hyung‐Suk , Choi Sang‐Il , Lee Kwangyeol
Published: December 2020

Long‐term catalyst stability is essential for the commercialization of hydrogen generation by electrocatalytic water‐splitting. Current research, however, mainly focuses on improving electrode activity of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the cathode and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at the anode of electrolyzers, although the maintenance of long‐term performance poses a bigger challenge. To shift the focus of research to the issue of catalyst stability, this review describes the mechanism of HER/OER catalyst degradation based on catalyst dissolution and agglomeration, and summarizes representative catalyst designs for achieving stable catalysts in long‐term water electrolysis operation. Additionally, various strategies toward the improvement of HER/OER stability are evaluated, and potential effective guidelines for the design of stable catalysts are suggested.
Highly Thermal Conductive Separator with In‐Built Phosphorus Stabilizer for Superior Ni‐Rich Cathode Based Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Zuo Lan‐Lan , Ma Qiang , Li Shi‐Cai , Lin Ben‐Cai , Fan Min , Meng Qing‐Hai , Wu Xiong‐Wei , Guo Yu‐Guo , Zeng Xian‐Xiang
Published: December 2020

The movement toward cobalt‐free cathode materials has served as a motivation for increased research in layered nickel‐rich cathodes for next generation metal batteries. Unfortunately, Ni‐rich cathode materials suffer from low capacity retention and poor thermal stability due to phase transition that results in issues such as the oxygen evolution reaction, hindering its extensive implementation. Herein, highly pliable separators with a 3D porous structure are prepared via a facile phase‐inversion method from an inorganic phosphorus‐based flame retardant and a thermally conductive graphene oxide additive. Benefiting from its 3D porous structure, in‐built radical scavenger, and uniform thermal distribution, the obtained separator enables a near‐single Li+ migration ( = 0.8) by blocking large‐size anions, driving the LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2/Li metal batteries to 188.8 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C, and demonstrating a capacity retention of 82.2% versus 41.4% for commercial polyolefin separators after 200 cycles, as well as excellent dendrite‐suppressing capabilities by reducing localized temperature hotspots and enabling sufficient mass transfer. This work also suggests a new alternative pathway for stabilizing reactive electrode materials for other high‐energy battery systems.
Reusable Silica‐Supported Ammonium BINSate Catalysts for Enantio‐ and Diastereoselective Friedel–Crafts‐Type Double Aminoalkylation of N‐Alkylpyrroles with Aldimines
Authors: Hatano Manabu , Zhao Xue , Mochizuki Takuya , Maeda Kyogo , Motokura Ken , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: December 2020

Silica‐supported ammonium (R)‐BINSate catalysts for the enantio‐ and diastereoselective Friedel–Crafts‐type double aminoalkylation of N‐benzyl‐ or N‐methylpyrrole with aldimines were developed. The present heterogeneous catalysts showed high catalytic activity compared to our previous homogeneous (R)‐BINSA ammonium catalysts, which were effective for single aminoalkylation. Simple aldimines could be used, and the corresponding pyrrole‐derived chiral C2‐symmetric triamines were obtained in the dl‐form with good to extremely high enantioselectivities. The heterogeneous catalyst could be easily recovered and reused three times without any loss of catalytic activity or enantiocontrol. An XPS analysis supported precise preparation of the catalysts in situ and with good quality after recycling three times. From the perspective of modern green chemistry with fine asymmetric organocatalysis, the development of such chiral strong Brønsted acid catalysts might be useful for both laboratory and industrial applications.
Prehospital extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation for cardiac arrest patients in rural areas: a case report of two patients
Authors: Fujita Kensuke , Konn Akihide , Ogura Takayuki , Kon Yuri , Kondo Eiji , Konno Shingo , Nodagashira Tatsuya
Published: December 2020

Background

The prognosis of out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest remains poor, especially for cardiopulmonary arrest patients in rural areas with longer transport duration to hospitals.

Case Presentation

In June 2016, we began providing prehospital extracorporeal life support using a mobile operating room for emergency surgery. We report two patients who survived after receiving prehospital extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation and were discharged. A patient with cardiopulmonary arrest from accidental hypothermia due to drowning survived with good neurological outcomes after on‐site extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation immediately after rescue. The other patient who survived experienced cardiopulmonary arrest at his workplace, which was approximately 90 min from the center. Prehospital extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation shortened the cardiopulmonary arrest time by an estimated 30 min, and the patient survived until the hospital.

Conclusion

Prehospital extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation has the potential to save lives in rural areas by reducing low‐flow time.
Self‐Resistance in the Biosynthesis of Fungal Macrolides Involving Cycles of Extracellular Oxidative Activation and Intracellular Reductive Inactivation
Authors: Zhang Yalong , Bai Jian , Zhang Le , Zhang Chen , Liu Bingyu , Hu Youcai
Published: December 2020

Self‐resistance genes are employed by many microbial producers of bioactive natural products to avoid self‐harm. Herein, we describe a unique strategy for self‐resistance toward a macrolide antibiotic, A26771B (1), identified by elucidating its biosynthetic pathway in the fungus Penicillium egyptiacum. A highly reducing polyketide synthase and a trans‐acting thioesterase generate the macrolide backbone, and a cytochrome P450 and an acyltransferase, respectively catalyze hydroxylation and succinylation to form the prodrug berkeleylactone E (2). Then, extracellular oxidative activation by a secreted flavin‐dependent oxidase forms 1, while intracellular reductive inactivation by a short‐chain reductase reforms 2, forming a redox cycle. Our work illustrates a unique redox‐mediated resistance mechanism for fungal antibiotics and contributes to the understanding of antibiotic biosynthesis and resistance.
Peri‐operative management of an adult with tetra‐amelia undergoing major abdominal surgery
Authors: Loughnan A. , Milan Z.
Published: December 2020

Tetra‐amelia is a rare birth defect characterised by the complete absence of all four limbs. Affected infants are often stillborn or die shortly after birth. There is therefore limited experience in the management of this condition in surviving adults, and published guidelines on peri‐operative and anaesthetic management do not exist. We present a 34‐year‐old woman with tetra‐amelia who underwent an elective distal pancreatectomy and splenectomy for a mucinous tumour of the body and tail of the pancreas. The anaesthetic challenges highlighted by this case include difficult intravenous access, unachievable blood pressure monitoring, management of fluid balance status peri‐operatively, effective drug dose titration and temperature management. In the absence of intra‐operative blood pressure monitoring, other modalities were used to monitor haemodynamic and volume status peri‐operatively. As drug dosing guidelines do not exist for this condition and drug pharmacodynamics may be unpredictable, we recommend careful dose titration and bespoke multimodal analgesia, which is best achieved in a high dependency setting.
Association Between Bone Mineral Density and Autoantibodies in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Amkreutz Josephine A. M. P. , de Moel Emma C. , Theander Lisa , Willim Minna , Heimans Lotte , Nilsson Jan‐Åke , Karlsson Magnus K. , Huizinga Tom W. J. , Åkesson Kristina E. , Jacobsson Lennart T. H. , Allaart Cornelia F. , Turesson Carl , van der Woude Diane
Published: December 2020

Objective

Autoantibodies, such as anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), have been described as inducing bone loss in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which can also be reflected by bone mineral density (BMD). We therefore examined the association between osteoporosis and autoantibodies in two independent RA cohorts.

Methods

Dual x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) of the lumbar spine and left hip was performed in 408 Dutch patients with early RA during 5 years of follow‐up and in 198 Swedish patients with early RA during 10 years of follow‐up. The longitudinal effect of ACPAs and other autoantibodies on several BMD measures was assessed using generalized estimating equations.

Results

In the Dutch cohort, significantly lower BMD at baseline was observed in ACPA‐positive patients compared to ACPA‐negative patients, with an estimated marginal mean BMD in the left hip of 0.92 g/cm2 (95% confidence interval [95% CI] 0.91–0.93) versus 0.95 g/cm2 (95% CI 0.93–0.97) (P = 0.01). In line with this, significantly lower Z scores at baseline were noted in the ACPA‐positive group compared to the ACPA‐negative group (estimated marginal mean Z score in the left hip of 0.18 [95% CI 0.08–0.29] versus 0.48 [95% CI 0.33–0.63]) (P < 0.01). However, despite clear differences at baseline, ACPA positivity was not associated with greater decrease in absolute BMD or Z scores over time. Furthermore, there was no association between BMD and higher levels of ACPAs or other autoantibodies (rheumatoid factor and anti–carbamylated protein antibodies). In the Swedish cohort, ACPA‐positive patients tended to have a higher prevalence of osteopenia at baseline (P = 0.04), but again, ACPA positivity was not associated with an increased prevalence of osteopenia or osteoporosis over time.

Conclusion

The presence of ACPAs is associated with significantly lower BMD at baseline, but not with greater BMD loss over time in treated RA patients. These results suggest that ACPAs alone do not appear to contribute to bone loss after disease onset when disease activity is well‐managed.
Novel Majeed Syndrome–CausingLPIN2Mutations Link Bone Inflammation to Inflammatory M2 Macrophages and Accelerated Osteoclastogenesis
Authors: Bhuyan Farzana , de Jesus Adriana A. , Mitchell Jacob , Leikina Evgenia , VanTries Rachel , Herzog Ronit , Onel Karen B. , Oler Andrew , Montealegre Sanchez Gina A. , Johnson Kim A. , Bichell Lena , Marrero Bernadette , De Castro Luis Fernandez , Huang Yan , Calvo Katherine R. , Collins Michael T. , Ganesan Sundar , Chernomordik Leonid V. , Ferguson Polly J. , Goldbach‐Mansky Raphaela
Published: December 2020

Objective

To identify novel heterozygousLPIN2mutations in a patient with Majeed syndrome and characterize the pathomechanisms that lead to the development of sterile osteomyelitis.

Methods

Targeted genetic analysis and functional studies assessing monocyte responses, macrophage differentiation, and osteoclastogenesis were conducted to compare the pathogenesis of Majeed syndrome to interleukin‐1 (IL‐1)–mediated diseases including neonatal‐onset multisystem inflammatory disease (NOMID) and deficiency of the IL‐1 receptor antagonist (DIRA).

Results

A 4‐year‐old girl of mixed ethnic background presented with sterile osteomyelitis and elevated acute‐phase reactants. She had a 17.8‐kb deletion on the maternalLPIN2allele and a splice site mutation, p.R517H, that variably spliced out exons 10 and 11 on the paternalLPIN2allele. The patient achieved long‐lasting remission receiving IL‐1 blockade with canakinumab. Compared to controls, monocytes and monocyte‐derived M1‐like macrophages from the patient with Majeed syndrome and those with NOMID or DIRA had elevated caspase 1 activity and IL‐1β secretion. In contrast, lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated, monocyte‐derived, M2‐like macrophages from the patient with Majeed syndrome released higher levels of osteoclastogenic mediators (IL‐8, IL‐6, tumor necrosis factor, CCL2, macrophage inflammatory protein 1α/β, CXCL8, and CXCL1) compared to NOMID patients and healthy controls. Accelerated osteoclastogenesis in the patient with Majeed syndrome was associated with higher NFATc1 levels, enhanced JNK/MAPK, and reduced Src kinase activation, and partially responded to JNK inhibition and IL‐1 (but not IL‐6) blockade.

Conclusion

We report 2 novel compound heterozygous disease‐causing mutations inLPIN2in an American patient with Majeed syndrome.LPIN2deficiency drives differentiation of proinflammatory M2‐like macrophages and enhances intrinsic osteoclastogenesis. This provides a model for the pathogenesis of sterile osteomyelitis which differentiates Majeed syndrome from other IL‐1–mediated autoinflammatory diseases.
Topic diversity: A discipline scheme‐free diversity measurement for journals
Authors: Bu Yi , Li Mengyang , Gu Weiye , Huang Win‐bin
Published: December 2020

Scientometrics has many citation‐based measurements for characterizing diversity, but most of these measurements depend on human‐designed categories and the granularity of discipline classifications sometimes does not allow in‐depth analysis. As such, the current paper proposes a new measurement for quantifying journals' diversity by utilizing the abstracts of scientific publications in journals, namely topic diversity (TD). Specifically, we apply a topic detection method to extract fine‐grained topics, rather than disciplines, in journals and adapt certain diversity indicators to calculate TD. Since TD only needs as inputs abstracts of publications rather than citing relationships between publications, this measurement has the potential to be widely used in scientometrics.
Tackling modern‐day crises: Why understanding multilevel interconnectivity is vital
Authors: Mazzocchi Fulvio
Published: December 2020

Complex crises like the coronavirus pandemic are showing us that modern societies are becoming increasingly unable to live in equilibrium with nature. These crises are the result of multiple causes, which interact at different scales and across different domains. Therefore, investigating their proximate causes is not enough to fully understand them. It is also crucial to take into account the structural factors involved. As concerns the global pandemic, I suggest four levels of analysis: (i) the surface or “proximate” level of the crisis; (ii) the human–environment–animal interface, as pointed out by the One Health approach; (iii) the broader socioeconomic context; and (iv) the deeper or worldview level. Furthermore, I argue that there is the need for a mindset shift if we want to properly trace causality. Much more attention must be given to the study of multilevel connecting patterns and nonlinear mechanisms as the producers of emergent global effects.
Gamma irradiating chromatography columns enables bioburden‐free integrated continuous biomanufacturing
Authors: Varner Chad , Patil Rohan , Godawat Rahul , Warikoo Veena , Konstantinov Konstantin , Brower Kevin P.
Published: December 2020

An important consideration for integrated continuous biomanufacturing is that the downstream chromatography steps integrated with the bioreactor should maintain a low bioburden state throughout the entire duration of the operation. One potential strategy to achieve this is to start bioburden‐free and functionally close the chromatography system. While chromatography skids themselves can be rendered bioburden‐free, limitations exist in applying these methods to chromatography columns. The small column sizes used in continuous multicolumn chromatography enable gamma irradiation of disposable columns to render them bioburden‐free. However, this approach has not been widely implemented, likely because gamma irradiation can negatively impact resin performance. Here, several protective mobile‐phase modifiers were screened and shown to help chromatography resins retain naïve‐like performance. Gamma irradiated columns were then integrated into perfusion bioreactors for continuous capture. Successful integrated continuous capture downstream of perfusion bioreactors for greater than 40 days using protein A, custom affinity, and non‐affinity capture resins for multiple biologic modalities is demonstrated in development and commercial settings. No indications of time‐based performance decline or bioburden growth have been observed. This strategy enables bioburden‐free integrated continuous biomanufacturing operations and could allow full process closure and decreased environmental control requirements for facilities; thus, permitting simultaneous multi‐product operations in a ballroom arrangement.
An ultrasound assisted extraction–solid‐phase extraction–ultra‐performance liquid chromatography combined strategy for atropine determination in Atropa belladonna leaves
Authors: Koetz Mariana , Klein‐Junior Luiz C. , Santos Marí C. , da Silva Thamires A. , Toson Natally S.B. , Henriques Amélia T.
Published: December 2020

Atropine is an antimuscarinic alkaloid identified in Atropa belladonna. In pharmacopeias, percolation is standardized as an extraction method for A. belladonna leaves, along with liquid–liquid extraction as a cleanup procedure and titration as an analytical method for assaying the atropine in the leaves. In this study, a faster, solvent‐saving, and more reliable method for quality control of A. belladonna samples was developed. Ultrasound‐assisted extraction was proposed and optimized by fractional factorial design followed by Box–Behnken design. For modeling atropine content, the following optimal conditions were established: particle size, 180 μm; percentage methanol in water, 50%; volume of solvent, 15 ml; time of extraction, 60 min; and number of extractions, two. This led to a significant improvement in atropine extraction (P < 0.001). For cleanup, solid‐phase extraction was used as an alternative to liquid–liquid extraction, giving similar results, with higher reproducibility. Finally, for the atropine assay, a UPLC method was validated as a substitute for the classic titration method. Taken together, the development of an ultrasound‐assisted extraction–solid‐phase extraction–UPLC approach allowed the determination of atropine content in A. belladonna leaves in a time‐ and solvent‐saving manner, with high reliability.
Determination of dexamethasone acetate in CETETH 20‐based in liquid crystalline systems using HPLC
Authors: Oyafuso Márcia Helena , Fonseca‐Santos Bruno , Kogawa Ana Carolina , Carvalho Flávia Chiva , Gremião Maria Palmira Daflon , Chorilli Marlus
Published: December 2020

Dexamethasone acetate (DEX), a potent anti‐inflammatory, is used primarily in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. It was incorporated in CETETH 20 (polyoxyethylene 20 cetyl alcohol)–based liquid crystalline systems to enhance the purpose of the drug. Concomitant with the pharmaceutical technology performed, a HPLC method was developed and validated for the quantification of dexamethasone acetate in CETETH 20‐based liquid crystalline systems for the evaluation of the drug in the new matrix. The method was performed using a C18 column with acetonitrile:methanol:water (35:35:30, v/v/v) as the mobile phase at a flow rate of 0.8 mL min−1 at 239 nm. The method was linear in the range of 1–25 μg mL−1; the limit of quantification and limit of detection were 0.05 and 0.16 μg mL−1, respectively; the accuracy of the method was 99.92% (relative standard deviation < 1%), and it presented intra‐day and inter‐day precision with deviations less than 1%. In this context, the method was successfully used to determine the incorporation efficiency of DEX in CETETH 20‐based liquid crystalline systems and can be easily used by pharmaceutical companies and laboratories around the world.
Mental health consequences of infections by coronaviruses including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)
Authors: Khan Suliman , Siddique Rabeea , Xiaoyan Wang , Zhang Ruiyi , Nabi Ghulam , Sohail Afzal Muhammad , Liu Jianbo , Xue Mengzhou
Published: December 2020

Background

Anxiety and stress like mental illnesses are the common outcomes of viral epidemics and pandemics. Novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) outbreak caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus virus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) was first reported in Wuhan, China, and then spread all over the world in a short time.

Objectives

To highlight and discuss the impact of COVID‐19 pandemic on mental or psychological health.

Method

Literature search and collection of the information were performed using PubMed, the reports from the World health organization, and the Center for disease control and prevention.

Results

COVID‐19 infection has already been declared as a global pandemic, which in association with infodemic has increased the risk of psychiatric/psychological disorders. A large population of the world is prone to develop anxiety, depressive disorders, and other mental abnormalities. Therefore, timely psychological interventions and preventive strategies are required. Moreover, the infection has been reported to be linked with cerebrovascular conditions; therefore, patients with underlying cerebrovascular diseases should be given attention.

Conclusion

COVID‐19‐mediated mental health complications and cerebrovascular conditions may cause a huge burden on healthcare communities in the future. Therefore, timely intervention and the development or application of preventive strategies are required to decrease the risk of neurological consequences.
Biomarkers of treatment response in patients with progressive multiple sclerosis treated with high‐dose pharmaceutical‐grade biotin (MD1003)
Authors: Collongues Nicolas , Kuhle Jens , Tsagkas Charidimos , Lamy Julien , Meyer Nicolas , Barro Christian , Parmar Katrin , Amann Michael , Wuerfel Jens , Kappos Ludwig , Moreau Thibault , de Seze Jerome
Published: December 2020

Background

High‐dose pharmaceutical‐grade biotin (MD1003) has positive effects on disability in progressive multiple sclerosis (PMS), but its mechanism of action remains unclear. The objective of our study was to quantify the effect of MD1003 in patients with PMS, using clinical response, plasma neurofilament light chain (pNfL) levels, and brain (BV) or cervical spinal cord volume (CSCV).

Materials and methods

Forty‐eight patients with PMS newly treated with MD1003 were followed during one year. Patients were assessed clinically using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), the nine‐hole peg test (9HPT), and the 25‐foot walk time (25FWT). CSCV was quantified using CORDIAL software and BV using SIENA or SIENAX. We measured pNfL level using SIMOA at several time points. Bayesian linear and logistic regressions were used to evaluate potential prognostic factors.

Results

Treatment response, defined as a significant decrease of EDSS, 25FWT, or 9HPT at 1 year, was observed in 13 patients (27%). A gain of volume was noted in 7/24 patients for brain and in 10/19 patients for cervical spinal cord. The strongest predictors of poor treatment response were a high pNfL level at MD1003 onset (OR 0.96; 95% CI [0.91; 1]), high age at MS onset (OR 0.95; 95% CI [0.89; 1.01]), and an increase in brain lesion load during MD1003 treatment (OR 0.81; 95% CI [0.55; 1.05]).

Conclusions

MD1003 treatment was associated with clinical, BV, and CSCV improvement at 1 year. The correlation between the levels of pNfL at baseline, the age at multiple sclerosis onset, and a treatment response at M12 is consistent with a better effect in less disabled patients.
The Association between Neprilysin gene polymorphisms and Alzheimer’s disease in Tibetan population
Authors: Chen Siwei , Mima Dunzhu , Jin Haiqiang , Dan Qu , Wang Fei , Cai Juan , Shi Lin , Wang Huali , Du Ailian , Tang Ying , Sun Yongan
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a well‐known neurodegenerative disease, of which the hallmark is the disposition of β‐amyloid (Aβ) in the form of plaque in the brain. Neprilysin (NEP) is the major enzyme to degrade Aβ and prevent accumulation of Aβ. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the correlation between the NEP gene polymorphisms and AD in Chinese Tibetan population.

Methods

Ninety‐nine sporadic AD Tibetan patients and 113 healthy Tibetan controls were enrolled in this study. The genotype frequencies and allele frequencies of multiple NEP gene loci were analyzed using the case–control association analysis.

Results

No significant correlation was found between polymorphisms of NEP gene loci (rs9829757, rs1816558, rs6776185, rs3736187, rs701109, rs989692) and the occurrence of AD in Tibetan population. However, allele C of NEP gene locus (rs701109) and allele T of gene locus (rs3736187) were possible risk factors of male AD patients in Tibetan population.

Conclusions

NEP gene loci (rs701109, rs989692, rs9829757, rs3736187, rs1816558, rs6776185) were polymorphic in Tibetan population. No difference was found between these loci but for that male gender combined with allele C of NEP gene locus (rs701109) and T of gene locus (rs3736187) might be risk factors for AD in Tibet.
Embedding trauma‐informed practice within the education sector
Authors: Berger Emily , Martin Karen
Published: December 2020

This commentary discusses the lack of evidence regarding trauma‐informed practice in schools and the challenges caused by inconsistent definitions, lack of program integration and lack of school policies related to trauma‐informed practice. These approaches are argued as being essential for greater uptake and sustained delivery of trauma‐informed practice in schools.
Effect of Non‐Volatile Constituents of Elsholtzia ciliata (Thunb.) Hyl. from Southern Vietnam on Reactive Oxygen Species and Nitric Oxide Release in Macrophages
Authors: Nguyen Dieu T. X. , Tran Hung , Schwaiger Stefan , Stuppner Hermann , Marzocco Stefania
Published: December 2020

The extract of Elsholtzia ciliata aerial parts was subjected to bio‐guided isolation using the intercellular ROS reduction in J774A.1 macrophages to monitor the anti‐oxidative activity. Fifteen compounds were isolated from the active fractions including eleven flavonoids (vitexin, pedalin, luteolin‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, apigenin‐5‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, apigenin‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, chrysoeriol‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, 7,3′‐dimethoxyluteolin‐6‐O‐β‐d‐glucopyranoside, luteolin, 5,6,4′‐trihydroxy‐7,3′‐dimethoxyflavone, 5‐hydroxy‐6,7‐dimethoxyflavone (compound 13), 5‐hydroxy‐7,8‐dimethoxyflavone); three hydroxycinnamic acid derivatives (caffeic acid, 4‐(E)‐caffeoyl‐l‐threonic acid, 4‐O‐(E)‐p‐coumaroyl‐l‐threonic acid) and one fatty acid (α‐linolenic acid). The biological evaluation of these compounds (10–2.5 μm) indicated that all of them exerted good antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activities, in particular compound 13.
Granule morphological and structural variability of Thai certified glutinous rice starches in relation to thermal, pasting, and digestible properties
Authors: Thitisaksakul Maysaya , Sangwongchai Wichian , Mungmonsin Urairat , Promrit Pennapa , Krusong Kuakarun , Wanichthanarak Kwanjeera , Tananuwong Kanitha
Published: December 2020

Background and objectives

Variation in composition and functionality of glutinous rice starch greatly affects their industrial application. This study examined the starch compositional, structural, and functional variability among five Thai glutinous rice cultivars, and the effect of molecular structure and composition on starch functionality was pinpointed.

Findings

Amylose content, amylopectin chain‐length distribution (CLD), and relative crystallinity were not different among the cultivars (p ≤ .05), whereas RD14 possessed largest mean granule diameter. Conclusion temperature of gelatinization and peak viscosity (PV) were lowest in RD6 and RD10, respectively, while RD6, RD10, and RD14 had lower breakdown (BD) compared to others. Despite small variation within each parameter, multivariate analysis revealed the distinct characteristic of waxy donor, RD6, and RD10 compared to others. Proportion of amylopectin B1 chains and granule size showed negative correlation (r > 0.5) with PV and BD, respectively, whereas proportion of amylopectin B2 chains positively correlated (r > 0.5) with PV and final viscosity (FV).

Conclusion

Amylopectin CLD and starch granule size were the key factors determining starch pasting properties among these waxy rice genotypes.

Significance and novelty

Variations in composition, structure, and properties of Thai glutinous rice starches were observed, which could be adopted for a diverse array of end uses.
Concealed urogenital schistosomiasis causing chronic pelvic pain: A case report
Authors: Majangara Karaga Rumbidzai
Published: December 2020

Urogenital schistosomiasis may mimic or co‐exist with other disease. Clinicians should maintain a high index of suspicion for schistosomiasis in women from endemic areas and travelers to avoid significant morbidity and unnecessary interventions.
Black Phosphorus Quantum Dots Modified CdS Nanowires with Efficient Charge Separation for Enhanced Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Liu Fulai , Wang Zhuan , Weng Yuxiang , Shi Rui , Ma Wangjing , Chen Yong
Published: December 2020

Constructing a high‐quality interface with strong coupling interaction is highly desirable in composite photocatalysts for the efficient interfacial charge transfer. Herein, we prepared black phosphorus quantum dots/CdS (BPQDs/CdS) binary composites with tight interfacial contact via a facile electrostatic self‐assembly approach for efficient photocatalytic H2 evolution. The optimized H2 evolution rate of 3 wt % BPQDs/CdS can reach up to 9.9 mmol g−1 h−1 in lactic acid aqueous solution, 99 and 5.5 times greater than that of pristine BPQDs and CdS, respectively. Benefiting from the strong interface interaction between CdS and BPQDs in well‐contacted BPQDs/CdS composites, efficient charge separation can be achieved, leading to enhanced photocatalytic H2 evolution activity. Notably, the rapid transfer of photogenerated electrons from CdS to BPQDs was unambiguously confirmed by time‐resolved transient absorption spectroscopy.
Size Refinement of Copper Nanoparticles: A Perspective from Electrochemical Nucleation and Growth Mechanism
Authors: Yang Guannan , Zeng Xian , Wang Pengyu , Li Chao , Xu Guangdong , Li Zhen , Luo Jiye , Zhang Yu , Cui Chengqiang
Published: December 2020

In this paper, isotropic copper nanoparticles (CuNPs) were successfully sythesized by using Cu(CH3COO)2 and ascorbic acid in absolute ethanol solution. With the addition of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) protective additive, the size distribution range of the synthesized CuNPs was significantly reduced from 650±415 nm to 51±12 nm. Electrodeposition analysis revealed that PVP could greatly suppress the reduction of Cu but had no prominent effects on the deposition mechanism. Based on the potentiostatic deposition results, a growth model was proposed to improve the applicability of the Scharifker‐Hills model by considering both the surface inhibition effect and the mass diffusion during the growth process of Cu nuclei. The experimental data fitted well with the prediction results from the proposed model, indicating that the electrodeposition of Cu followed the progressive nucleation process. The PVP additive could inhibit the deposition and growth of Cu by increasing the surface inhibition for cation incorporation on the nuclei, which was probably the main reason for the refinement of the sythesized CuNPs. Our findings can provide insights for the preparation of metallic nanoparticles and the understanding of their deposition mechanism.
Polyoxometalate‐Based Nanomaterials Toward Efficient Cancer Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Lu Fei , Wang Mengzhen , Li Na , Tang Bo
Published: December 2020

As an emerging class of inorganic metal oxides, organically functionalized polyoxometalates (POMs) or POM‐based nanohybrids have been demonstrated promising potential for the inhibition of various cancer types by the virtue of their diversity in structures and significantly reduced toxicity. This contribution summarizes the latest achievement of POM‐based nanomaterials in cancer diagnosis and various therapeutics to put forward our fundamental viewpoints on the design principles of modified POMs based on their application. In addition, major challenges and perspectives in this field are also discussed. We expect that this review will provide a valuable and systematic reference for the further development of POM‐based nanomaterials.
Enantioselective Cleavage of Cyclobutanols Through Ir‐Catalyzed C−C Bond Activation: Mechanistic and Synthetic Aspects
Authors: Ratsch Friederike , Strache Joss Pepe , Schlundt Waldemar , Neudörfl Jörg‐Martin , Adler Andreas , Aziz Sarwar , Goldfuss Bernd , Schmalz Hans‐Günther
Published: December 2020

The Ir‐catalyzed conversion of prochiral tert‐cyclobutanols to β‐methyl‐substituted ketones proceeds under comparably mild conditions in toluene (45–110 °C) and is particularly suited for the enantioselective desymmetrization of β‐oxy‐substituted substrates to give products with a quaternary chirality center with up to 95 % ee using DTBM‐SegPhos as a chiral ligand. Deuteration experiments and kinetic isotope effect measurements revealed major mechanistic differences to related RhI‐catalyzed transformations. Supported by DFT calculations we propose the initial formation of an IrIII hydride intermediate, which then undergoes a β‐C elimination (C−C bond activation) prior to reductive C−H elimination. The computational model also allows the prediction of the stereochemical outcome. The Ir‐catalyzed cyclobutanol cleavage is broadly applicable but fails for substrates bearing strongly coordinating groups. The method is of particular value for the stereo‐controlled synthesis of substituted chromanes related to the tocopherols and other natural products.
Ni2P Interlayer and Mn Doping Synergistically Expedite the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Kinetics of Co2P
Authors: Du Yunmei , Wang Wensi , Zhao Huimin , Liu Yanru , Li Shaoxiang , Wang Lei , Liu Bin
Published: December 2020

Transition metal phosphide is regarded as one of the most promising candidates to replace noble‐metal hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts. Nevertheless, the controllable design and synthesis of transition metal phosphide electrocatalysts with efficient and stable electrochemical performance are still very challenging. Herein, a novel hierarchical HER electrocatalyst consisting of three‐dimensional (3D) coral‐like Mn‐doped Co2P@an intermediate layer of Ni2P generated in situ by phosphorization on Ni foam (MnCoP/NiP/NF) is reported. Notably, both the incorporation of Mn and introduction of the Ni2P interlayer promote Co atoms to carry more electrons, which is beneficial to reduce the force of the Co−H bond and optimize the adsorption energy of hydrogen intermediate (|ΔGH*|), thereby making MnCoP/NiP/NF exhibit outstanding HER performance with onset overpotential and Tafel slope as low as 31.2 mV and 61 mV dec−1, respectively, in 1 m KOH electrolyte.
Sensing Mechanism of Excited‐State Intermolecular Hydrogen Bond for Phthalimide: Indispensable Role of Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Authors: Wang Dongdong , Bai Tianxin , Wang Xue , Xiong Yuting , Zhang Yahui , Shi Zhenqiang , Zhang Fusheng , Lu Wenqi , Qing Guangyan
Published: December 2020

Main observation and conclusion

Excited‐state hydrogen bond strongly affects the intramolecular charge conversion process, which is very suitable for the design and development of high‐performance fluorescent probes. However, as one of the most common solvents or additives used in sensing, the role of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) in the system of the excited‐state hydrogen bond is seldom explored. As the goal of this research, we investigated the sensing mechanism of a CORM3‐green fluorescent probe system for carbon monoxide releasing molecule (CORM‐3) detection and tracking in vivo, through quantum chemistry calculations based on density‐functional‐theory (DFT)/ time‐dependent density‐functional‐theory (TDDFT) methods. Based on the analysis of the solvent effect of DMSO by the reduced density gradient function and IR spectroscopy, we provided a new strategy to explain the fluorescence mechanism. Subsequently, we verified the result through the potential energy curve of Phthalimide (PTI, the reduced product of CORM3‐green). The excited‐state hydrogen bond between PTI and DMSO promotes radiation transition and leads to obvious difference in the photophysical properties of PTI and PTI‐DMSO.
Protein Sequence Analysis Using the MPI Bioinformatics Toolkit
Authors: Gabler Felix , Nam Seung‐Zin , Till Sebastian , Mirdita Milot , Steinegger Martin , Söding Johannes , Lupas Andrei N. , Alva Vikram
Published: December 2020

The MPI Bioinformatics Toolkit (https://toolkit.tuebingen.mpg.de) provides interactive access to a wide range of the best‐performing bioinformatics tools and databases, including the state‐of‐the‐art protein sequence comparison methods HHblits and HHpred. The Toolkit currently includes 35 external and in‐house tools, covering functionalities such as sequence similarity searching, prediction of sequence features, and sequence classification. Due to this breadth of functionality, the tight interconnection of its constituent tools, and its ease of use, the Toolkit has become an important resource for biomedical research and for teaching protein sequence analysis to students in the life sciences. In this article, we provide detailed information on utilizing the three most widely accessed tools within the Toolkit: HHpred for the detection of homologs, HHpred in conjunction with MODELLER for structure prediction and homology modeling, and CLANS for the visualization of relationships in large sequence datasets. © 2020 The Authors.

Basic Protocol 1: Sequence similarity searching using HHpred

Alternate Protocol: Pairwise sequence comparison using HHpred

Support Protocol: Building a custom multiple sequence alignment using PSI‐BLAST and forwarding it as input to HHpred

Basic Protocol 2: Calculation of homology models using HHpred and MODELLER

Basic Protocol 3: Cluster analysis using CLANS
Multiparametric High‐Content Assays to Measure Cell Health and Oxidative Damage as a Model for Drug‐Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Pohan Grace , Espinosa Jether Amos , Chen Steven , Ang Kenny K. , Arkin Michelle R. , Markossian Sarine
Published: December 2020

Drug‐induced liver injury is an important cause of non‐approval in drug development and the withdrawal of already approved drugs from the market. Screening human hepatic cell lines for toxicity has been used extensively to predict drug‐induced liver injury in preclinical drug development. Assessing hepatic‐cell health with more diverse markers will increase the value of in vitro assays and help predict the mechanism of toxicity. We describe three live cell‐based assays using HepG2 cells to measure cell health parameters indicative of hepatotoxicity. The first assay measures cellular ATP levels using luciferase. The second and third assays are multiparametric high‐content screens covering a panel of cell health markers including cell count, mitochondrial membrane potential and structure, nuclear morphology, vacuolar density, and reactive oxygen species and glutathione levels. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Measurement of cellular ATP content

Basic Protocol 2: High‐content analysis assay to assess cell count, mitochondrial membrane potential and structure, and reactive oxygen species

Basic Protocol 3: High‐content analysis assay to assess nuclear morphology, vacuoles, and glutathione content

Support Protocol 1: Subculturing and maintaining HepG2 cells

Support Protocol 2: Plating HepG2 cell line

Support Protocol 3: Transferring compounds by pin tool

Support Protocol 4: Generating dose‐response curves
A label propagation algorithm for community detection on high‐mixed networks
Authors: Wu Qingshou , Chen Rongwang , Wang Lijin , Guo Kun
Published: December 2020

Community detection on high‐mixed networks has been a challenging problem for complex network researchers. In a Lancichinetti–Fortunato–Radicchi (LFR) network with a mixing parameter mu greater than or equal to 0.5, the quality of the communities partitioned by currently available algorithms will decrease rapidly with increasing mu. To address this issue, we propose a label propagation algorithm on high‐mixed networks, called LPA‐HM, for community detection. In our algorithm, the initial node labels are preprocessed using the number of common neighbors of the nodes, which greatly reduces the initial number of labels and thus improves the quality of the subsequent label propagation process. During the label propagation stage, each node is given the label that is shared by the maximum number of its neighbors. If there are several labels that meet this requirement, the influence of the labels' nodes is calculated, and the label with the maximum total influence is selected as the label of the current node. Early stop conditions based on modularity and run‐to‐run changes in the number of detected communities are incorporated in the algorithm to prevent label overpropagation. The communities that fail to satisfy the definition of weak communities are merged with their most similar neighboring communities. In experiments based on real networks and LFR networks, it is found that the LPA‐HM algorithm is well suited to community detection in a variety of networks. In a high‐mixed LFR network with mu = 0.7, the NMI measure of the LPA‐HM algorithm's community detection performance is still greater than 0.9.
Gene Editing in Dimorphic Fungi Using CRISPR/Cas9
Authors: Kujoth Gregory C. , Sullivan Thomas D. , Klein Bruce S.
Published: December 2020

Dimorphic fungi in the genera Blastomyces, Histoplasma, Coccidioides, and Paracoccidioides are important human pathogens that affect human health in many countries throughout the world. Understanding the biology of these fungi is important for the development of effective treatments and vaccines. Gene editing is a critically important tool for research into these organisms. In recent years, gene targeting approaches employing RNA‐guided DNA nucleases, such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR‐associated nuclease 9 (Cas9), have exploded in popularity. Here, we provide a detailed description of the steps involved in applying CRISPR/Cas9 technology to dimorphic fungi, with Blastomyces dermatitidis in particular as our model fungal pathogen. We discuss the design and construction of single guide RNA and Cas9‐expressing targeting vectors (including multiplexed vectors) as well as introduction of these plasmids into Blastomyces using Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation. Finally, we cover the outcomes that may be expected in terms of gene‐editing efficiency and types of gene alterations produced. © 2020 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Construction of CRISPR/Cas9 targeting vectors

Support Protocol 1: Choosing protospacers in the target gene

Basic Protocol 2: Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation of Blastomyces

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of electrocompetent Agrobacterium

Support Protocol 3: Preparation and recovery of Blastomyces frozen stocks
Analytical Review of Life‐Cycle Environmental Impacts of Carbon Capture and Utilization Technologies
Authors: Garcia‐Garcia Guillermo , Fernandez Marta Cruz , Armstrong Katy , Woolass Steven , Styring Peter
Published: December 2020

Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) has been proposed as a sustainable alternative to produce valuable chemicals by reducing the global warming impact and depletion of fossil resources. To guarantee that CCU processes have environmental advantages over conventional production processes, thorough and systematic environmental impact analyses must be performed. Life‐Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a robust methodology that can be used to fulfil this aim. In this context, this article aims to review the life‐cycle environmental impacts of several CCU processes, focusing on the production of methanol, methane, dimethyl ether, dimethyl carbonate, propane and propene. A systematic literature review is used to collect relevant published evidence of the environmental impacts and potential benefits. An analysis of such information shows that CCU generally provides a reduction of environmental impacts, notably global warming/climate change, compared to conventional manufacturing processes of the same product. To achieve such environmental improvements, renewable energy must be used, particularly to produce hydrogen from water electrolysis. Importantly, different methodological choices are identified that are being used in the LCA studies, making results not comparable. There is a clear need to harmonize LCA methods for the analyses of CCU systems, and more importantly, to document and justify such methodological choices in the LCA report.
Rapamycin and abundant TCR stimulation are required for the generation of stable human induced regulatory T cells
Authors: Kim Juewan , Hope Christopher M , Perkins Griffith B , Stead Sebastian O , Scaffidi Jacqueline C , Kette Francis D , Carroll Robert P , Barry Simon C , Coates Patrick Toby
Published: December 2020

Objectives

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) are a vital sub‐population of CD4+ T cells with major roles in immune tolerance and homeostasis. Given such properties, the use of regulatory T cells for immunotherapies has been extensively investigated, with a focus on adoptive transfer of ex vivo expanded natural Tregs (nTregs). For immunotherapies, induced Tregs (iTregs), generated in vitro from naïve CD4+ T cells, provide an attractive alternative, given the ease of generating cell numbers required for clinical dosage. While the combination of TGF‐β, ATRA and rapamycin has been shown to generate highly suppressive iTregs, the challenge for therapeutic iTreg generation has been their instability. Here, we investigate the impact of rapamycin concentrations and α‐CD3/CD28 bead ratios on human iTreg stability.

Methods

We assess iTregs generated with various concentrations of rapamycin and differing ratios of α‐CD3/CD28 beads for their differentiation, stability, expression of Treg signature molecules and T helper effector cytokines, and Treg‐specific demethylation region (TSDR) status.

Results

iTregs generated in the presence of TGF‐β, ATRA, rapamycin and a higher ratio of α‐CD3/CD28 beads were highly suppressive and stable upon in vitro re‐stimulation. These iTregs exhibited a similar expression profile of Treg signature molecules and T helper effector cytokines to nTregs, in the absence of TSDR demethylation.

Conclusion

This work establishes a method to generate human iTregs which maintain stable phenotype and function upon in vitro re‐stimulation. Further validation in pre‐clinical models will be needed to ensure its suitability for applications in adoptive transfer.