bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dihydroartemisinin enhances gefitinib cytotoxicity against lung adenocarcinoma cells by inducingROS‐dependent apoptosis and ferroptosis
Authors: Lai Xiang‐Yu , Shi Yu‐Mei , Zhou Ming‐Ming
Published: April 2023

The application of epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs), such as gefitinib, has shifted lung cancer treatment from empirical chemotherapy to targeted molecular therapy. However, acquired drug resistance is inevitable in almost all non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients treated with gefitinib. Combined treatment with dihydroartemisinin (DHA) and gefitinib produced a better inhibitory effect on lung adenocarcinoma than gefitinib treatment alone; however, the specific mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to assess the underlying mechanism of this combination treatment. We prepared gefitinib‐resistant A549 cells and investigated whether apoptosis and ferroptosis were involved in the sensitizing effect of DHA. Treatment with 5 μM gefitinib resulted in rupturing and floatation of A549 cells in the medium, while A549‐GR cells were found to be insusceptible to gefitinib. However, treatment with DHA substantially inhibited the proliferation of A549‐GR cells in a dose‐dependent manner accompanied by increased apoptosis and ferroptosis. The accumulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) was crucial for the inhibitory effect of DHA on A549‐GR cells. Moreover, cellular autophagy was significantly upregulated post‐DHA treatment. The combined treatment of DHA and gefitinib resulted in inhibition of proliferation of A549, H1975, and HCC827 cells, and ROS accumulation and a remarkable induction of apoptosis was observed in A549‐GR cells. DHA significantly induced apoptosis and ferroptosis in a dose‐dependent manner and exhibited high cellular toxicity on A549‐GR cells when combined with gefitinib.
On the stochastic linear quadratic optimal control problem by piecewise constant controls: The infinite horizon time case
Authors: Drăgan Vasile , Popa Ioan‐Lucian , Aberkane Samir
Published: April 2023

This paper is devoted to the problem of indefinite stochastic linear quadratic (LQ) optimal control by piecewise constant controls in an infinite horizon case. By restricting the set of admissible controls to the class of piecewise constant stochastic processes, we reformulated the above control problem under the setting of systems modeled by Itô differential equations controlled by impulses. We show that the solution in a state feedback form of the indefinite stochastic LQ control problem is equivalent to the existence of a global stabilizing solution associated to a class of backward matrix linear differential equations with a Riccati type jumping operators.
Modeling the herd prey response to individualistic predators attacks
Authors: Acotto Francesca , Venturino Ezio
Published: April 2023

In this paper, we consider predators hunting on prey gathered in groups and in such way exhibiting the possibility of reducing the predators pressure. To model this feature, however, we depart from the Holling type II (HTII) response function, in that we assume that a sufficiently large set of prey could respond to individualistic attacks and therefore induce the predator to renounce. The basic idea is described at first in a simple two‐populations predator‐prey system. It is then expanded considering the generalist predators to deal with two prey. In the first case, both are gathered in herds, and in the second one, one of the two instead behaves individualistically. The net outcome is an enhanced survival for the prey with respect to both the herding cases without and with predators feeding satiation (i.e., using the HTII response).
Generation of dual‐band OAM beam using planar uniform circular array for vehicular communications
Authors: Rao M. Venkateswara , Modugu Yaswanth B. , Mondal Debasish , Yuvaraj S. , Kartikeyan M. V.
Published: April 2023

In this article, a novel compact dual‐band uniform circular array (UCA) is proposed to generate the conical‐shaped orbital angular momentum (OAM) beam with high azimuthal symmetry for vehicular communication. Most antenna designs proposed in the past for obtaining conical‐shaped radiation patterns have complex structures and are very expensive. However, the generation of conical‐shaped patterns by an OAM antenna provides simplicity in the structural realization and is compact for integrating with transceiver circuits. By selecting circularly polarized (CP) patches as array elements of a UCA, conical‐shaped OAM beams can be generated. The proposed UCA consists of a simple feed network with eight dual‐band CP elements. The required phase delay for generating OAM beam ( = +1 mode) is obtained by rotating the CP elements in clock wise direction. The UCA is 150 mm 140 mm in size, fabricated on a FR4 substrate, and experimentally tested. The measured results confirm that the generated OAM beam has conical‐shaped radiation patterns at 5.3 and 5.77 GHz. The generated OAM beam has a peak gain of 10 dBi with high mode purity and a divergence angle of in both simulated and measured findings.
An adaptive targeting algorithm for magnetic resonance‐guided high‐intensity focused ultrasound controlled hyperthermia
Authors: Wong Suzanne M. , Luo Phoebe , Keunen Benjamin , Pichardo Samuel , Drake James M. , Waspe Adam C.
Published: April 2023

Background

Mild hyperthermia has been demonstrated to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy in various cancer types. One localized, non‐invasive method of administering mild hyperthermia is magnetic resonance‐guided high‐intensity focused ultrasound (MRgHIFU). However, challenges for ultrasound such as beam deflection, refraction and coupling issues may result in a misalignment of the HIFU focus and the tumor during hyperthermia. Currently, the best option is to stop the treatment, wait for the tissue to cool, and redo the treatment planning before restarting the hyperthermia. This current workflow is both time‐consuming and unreliable.

Purpose

An adaptive targeting algorithm was developed for MRgHIFU controlled hyperthermia treatments for cancer therapeutics. This algorithm executes in real time while hyperthermia is being administered to ensure that the focus is within our target region. If a mistarget is detected, the HIFU system will electronically steer the focus of the HIFU beam to the correct target. The goal of this study was to quantify the accuracy and precision of the adaptive targeting algorithm's ability to correct a purposely misplanned hyperthermia treatment in real‐time using a clinical MRgHIFU system.

Methods

A gelatin phantom with acoustic properties matched to the average speed of sound in human tissue was used to test the adaptive targeting algorithm's accuracy and precision. The target was purposely offset 10 mm away from the focus at the origin, in four orthogonal directions, allowing the algorithm to correct for this mistarget. In each direction, 10 data sets were collected for a total sample size of 40. Hyperthermia was administered with a target temperature set at 42°C. The adaptive targeting algorithm was run during the hyperthermia treatment and 20 thermometry images were collected after the beam steering occurred. The location of the focus was quantified by calculating the center of heating on the MR thermometry data.

Results

The average calculated trajectory passed to the HIFU system was 9.7 mm ± 0.4 mm where the target trajectory was 10 mm. The accuracy of the adaptive targeting algorithm after the beam steering correction was 0.9 mm and the precision was 1.6 mm.

Conclusion

The adaptive targeting algorithm was implemented successfully and was able to correct the 10 mm mistargets with high accuracy and precision in gelatin phantoms. The results demonstrate the capability to correct the MRgHIFU focus location during controlled hyperthermia.
Efficacy and safety of zinc in the prevention of oral mucositis in children with cancer receiving intensified chemotherapy: A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Shah Dinesh , Gupta Aditya , Meena Jagdish Prasad , Kumar Gupta Aditya , Velpandian Thirumurthy , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Makkar Harshita , Seth Rachna
Published: April 2023

Background and aims

A limited number of safe and effective preventive options for oral mucositis (OM) are available. This randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of zinc in preventing OM in children with cancer receiving intensified chemotherapy.

Methods

Children aged 3–18 years were randomized to receive oral zinc at 1 mg/kg/dose daily for 14 days or a placebo at the same doses and schedule. The primary outcome of this study was to determine the effect of oral zinc in the prevention of OM, and secondary outcomes included any adverse effect of oral zinc, the severity and duration of OM, and the need for hospitalizations.

Results

A total of 90 children were randomized to either the oral zinc (n = 44) or placebo group (n = 46). The incidence of OM in the zinc group was 20.5%, while that in the placebo group was 19.6% (p = .91; risk ratio: 1.04, 95% CI 0.45–2.30). There were no significant adverse events of the drug observed. There were no significant differences between the two groups in the severity (p = .79), the mean time of onset (p = .09), the mean duration of OM (p = .18), and the need for hospitalizations (p = 1.0).

Conclusions

Among children on cancer chemotherapy, there was no decrease in the incidence of OM observed with oral zinc at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day. No significant adverse events were observed with administering oral zinc. Further research is warranted to test higher doses of oral zinc with longer duration for a clinically significant effect.
Cerebral revascularization surgery reduces cerebrovascular events in children with sickle cell disease and moyamoya syndrome: Results of the stroke in sickle cell revascularization surgery retrospective study
Authors: Aldana Philipp R , Hanel Ricardo A , Piatt Joseph , Han Sabrina H , Bansal Manisha M , Schultz Corinna , Gauger Cynthia , Pederson John M , III John C Wellons , Hulbert Monica L , Jordan Lori C , Qureshi Adnan , Garrity Kelsey , Robert Adam P , Hatem Asmaa , Stein Jennifer , Beydler Emily , Adelson P. David , Greene Stephanie , Grabb Paul , Johnston James , Lang Shih‐Shan , Leonard Jeffrey , Magge Suresh N , Scott Alex , Shah Sanjay , Smith Edward R , Smith Jodi , Strahle Jennifer , Vadivelu Sudhakar , Webb Jennifer , Wrubel David
Published: April 2023

Background

Recent studies suggest that cerebral revascularization surgery may be a safe and effective therapy to reduce stroke risk in patients with sickle cell disease and moyamoya syndrome (SCD–MMS).

Methods

We performed a multicenter, retrospective study of children with SCD–MMS treated with conservative management alone (conservative group)—chronic blood transfusion and/or hydroxyurea—versus conservative management plus surgical revascularization (surgery group). We monitored cerebrovascular event (CVE) rates—a composite of strokes and transient ischemic attacks. Multivariable logistic regression was used to compare CVE occurrence and multivariable Poisson regression was used to compare incidence rates between groups. Covariates in multivariable models included age at treatment start, age at moyamoya diagnosis, antiplatelet use, CVE history, and the risk period length.

Results

We identified 141 patients with SCD–MMS, 78 (55.3%) in the surgery group and 63 (44.7%) in the conservative group. Compared with the conservative group, preoperatively the surgery group had a younger age at moyamoya diagnosis, worse baseline modified Rankin scale scores, and increased prevalence of CVEs. Despite more severe pretreatment disease, the surgery group had reduced odds of new CVEs after surgery (odds ratio = 0.27, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.08–0.94, p = .040). Furthermore, comparing surgery group patients during presurgical versus postsurgical periods, CVEs odds were significantly reduced after surgery (odds ratio = 0.22, 95% CI = 0.08–0.58, p = .002).

Conclusions

When added to conservative management, cerebral revascularization surgery appears to reduce the risk of CVEs in patients with SCD–MMS. A prospective study will be needed to validate these findings.
A tailored physical education program enhances elementary students' self‐efficacy, attitudes, and motivation to engage in physical activity
Authors: Dutrisac Shannah , Bearden Anomi G. , Borgel Jazmyn , Weddell Rob , Jones Mark , Oddie Scott
Published: April 2023

Achieving adequate physical activity is an important health goal that many elementary school students are not meeting during the school day. The physical activity leadership (PAL) Program was designed to provide individually tailored supports to improve the quantity and quality of physical activity in schools, as well as promote improvements in self‐efficacy, attitudes, and motivation for physical activity. Self‐efficacy, attitudes, and motivation are three key factors in predicting increases in physical activity, and consequently serve as the cognitive‐affective variables examined in the present study. A sample of 117 fourth‐ and fifth‐grade students and 22 teachers completed several quantitative and open‐ended feedback measures before and after a district‐wide physical activity intervention. Results indicated the PAL Program was highly beneficial to all participants, and several key measures (negative attitudes, motivation to exercise, and perceptions of physical ability) were significantly impacted in the anticipated direction. Open‐ended feedback data collected from teachers involved also suggests that the program was well‐received and was perceived as beneficial. This study provides additional evidence in support of individually tailored physical education interventions.
Biobased composites of poly(butylene furanoate) copolymers and hemp
Authors: Deng Zhengyu , Liubchak Iryna , Holness F. Benjamin , Shahrokhi Farshid , Price Aaron D. , Gillies Elizabeth R.
Published: April 2023

There is growing interest in biodegradable and bio‐based materials that can replace conventional plastics in applications such as packaging. Polymers based on 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA) have been proposed as bio‐based analogues for polymers based on terephthalic acid. However, they tend to be brittle, exhibit limited biodegradability, and there are few examples of biocomposites from these polymers. Described here is the preparation of a small library of copolyesters based on FDCA, 1,4‐butanediol, and either succinic, adipic or sebacic acid. By incorporating different dicarboxylic acids in varying ratios, the glass transition temperature was tuned from −30 to 41°C and the melting temperature from 104–171°C while maintaining high stability up to ~300°C. Incorporation of aliphatic dicarboxylic acids facilitated blending of the copolymers with hemp powder, with up to 30 wt% hemp incorporated into the polymer containing 60:40 FDCA:sebacic acid. Incorporation of hemp did not substantially alter the thermal properties but increased the moduli of the composites. The copolyesters were susceptible to degradation by Rhizopus oryzae lipase, with the sebacic acid‐containing polyester having higher degradability than the succinic acid‐containing polyester. Overall, the results demonstrate the promise of the copolyester‐hemp blends for applications where they can replace conventional non‐degradable plastics.
Association between oncologists' death anxiety and their end‐of‐life communication with advanced cancer patients
Authors: Harnischfeger Nele , Rath Hilke M. , Alt‐Epping Bernd , Brand Hannah , Haller Karl , Letsch Anne , Rieder Nicola , Thuss‐Patience Peter , Bokemeyer Carsten , Oechsle Karin , Bergelt Corinna
Published: April 2023

Objective

Early and open communication of palliative care (PC) and end‐of‐life (EoL)‐related issues in advanced cancer care is not only recommended by guidelines, but also preferred by the majority of patients. However, oncologists tend to avoid timely addressing these issues. We investigated the role of oncologists' personal death anxiety in the rare occurrence of PC/EoL conversations.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter cross‐sectional study assessing oncologists' strengths and difficulties in self‐reported and externally rated PC/EoL communication skills as well as their association with death anxiety. Death anxiety was assessed via the Thanatophobia‐Scale. PC/EoL communication skills were assessed via validated questionnaires and study‐specific items plus an external rating of videotaped medical consultation with simulated patients. A general linear model was conducted to analyze associations.

Results

One hundred fifty‐three oncologists participated (age: M(SD) = 32.9 years (6.9), 59.5% female). Both from the external and from their own perspective, oncologists had difficulties in addressing PC and the EoL. They avoided those aspects more than other topics in consultations with advanced cancer patients. Death anxiety was associated with more avoidant self‐reported communication strategies, lower self‐efficacy, less confidence in discussing the EoL and less confidence in discussing patients' goals and wishes, but was not associated with externally rated PC/EoL communication.

Conclusions

Oncologists have experienced and externally observable difficulties in addressing PC and the EoL. Oncologists with higher death anxiety subjectively experience more difficulties. Group supervision and consultation offers might be means to empower oncologists, increase awareness of personal fears and enhance confidence and self‐efficacy. This might facilitate earlier PC/EoL communication.
Developmental changes in obstructive sleep apnea and sleep architecture in Down syndrome
Authors: Kahanowitch Ryan , Aguilar Hector , Weiss Miriam , Lew Jenny , Pan Qi , Ortiz‐Vergara Maria Camila , Rodriguez Oscar , Nino Gustavo
Published: April 2023

Background

Down syndrome (DS, also known as Trisomy 21) is a condition associated with abnormal neurodevelopment and a higher risk for sleep apnea. Our study sought to better understand and characterize the age‐related developmental differences in sleep architecture and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity in children with DS compared to euploid individuals.

Methods

Retrospective review of polysomnograms in over 4151 infants, children, and adolescents in the pediatric sleep center at Children's National Hospital in Washington D.C. (0–18 years) including 218 individuals with DS.

Results

The primary findings of our study are that: (1) severe OSA (obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index ≥ 10/h) was more prevalent in the DS group (euploid 18% vs. DS 34%, p < 0.001) with the highest OSA severity being present in young children (<3 years old) and adolescents (>10 years old), (2) abnormalities in sleep architecture in children with DS were characterized by a prolonged rapid‐eye movement (REM) sleep onset latency (SOL) (euploid 119 min vs. DS 144 min, p < 0.001) and greater arousal indexes (euploid 10.7/h vs. DS 12.2/h, p < 0.001), (3) developmental changes in the amount of REM sleep or slow wave sleep were not different in DS individuals relative to euploid children, (4) multivariate analyses showed that OSA and REM sleep latency differences between DS and euploid individuals were still present after adjusting by age, biological sex, and body mass index.

Conclusion

Severe OSA is highly prevalent in children with DS and follows an age‐dependent “U” distribution with peaks in newborns/infants and children >10 years of age. Children with DS also have disturbances in sleep architecture characterized by a longer REM SOL and elevated arousal indexes. As sleep cycle generation and continuity play crucial roles in neuroplasticity and cognitive development, these findings offer clinically relevant insights to guide anticipatory guidance for infants, children, and adolescents with DS.
Improving the stability of thiol–maleimide bioconjugates via the formation of a thiazine structure
Authors: Gober Isaiah N. , Sharan Rahul , Villain Matteo
Published: April 2023

Linker stability is critically important for the efficacy and safety of peptide and protein conjugates used for biological applications. One common conjugation strategy, thiol–maleimide coupling, generates a succinimidyl thioether linker with limited stability under physiological conditions. We have shown in previous work that when a peptide with an N‐terminal cysteine is conjugated to a maleimide reagent, a thiazine structure is formed via a chemical rearrangement. Our preliminary work indicated that the thiazine linker has favorable stability. Here, we report the evaluation of a thiazine linker as an alternative to the widely used succinimidyl thioether linker for thiol–maleimide bioconjugation. The stability of the thiazine conjugate in comparison to the thioether conjugate was assessed across a broad pH range. Additionally, the propensity for retro‐Michael reaction and cross‐reactivity with other thiols was evaluated by treating conjugates in the presence of glutathione. The studies indicated that the thiazine linker degrades markedly slower than the thioether conjugate. In addition, the thiazine linker is over 20 times less susceptible to glutathione adduct formation. The NMR study of the thiazine structure confirmed that the formation of the thiazine linker is a stereoselective process that yields a single diastereomer. In summary, we propose the use of the thiazine linker obtained by conjugation of maleimide‐containing reagents with peptides or proteins presenting an N‐terminal cysteine as a novel approach for bioconjugation. The advantages of this approach are the formation of a linker with a well‐defined stereochemical configuration, increased stability at physiological pH, and a strongly reduced propensity for thiol exchange.
Exploring m6A‐RNA methylation as a potential therapeutic strategy for acute lung injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome
Authors: Faraj Reem , Liang Ying , Feng Anlin , Wu Jialin , Black Stephen M. , Wang Ting
Published: April 2023

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is the most common methylation modification in mammalian messenger RNA (mRNA) and noncoding RNAs. m6A modification plays a role in the regulation of gene expression and deregulation of m6A methylation has been implicated in many human diseases. Recent publications suggest that exploitation of this methylation process may possess utility against acute lung injury (ALI). ALI and its more severe form, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are acute, inflammatory clinical syndromes characterized by poor oxygenation and diffuse pulmonary infiltrates. This syndrome is associated with microvascular endothelial dysfunction, subsequent pulmonary hypertension and may ultimately lead to mortality without rigorous and acute clinical intervention. Over the years, many attempts have been made to detect novel therapeutic avenues for research without much success. The urgency for the discovery of novel therapeutic agents has become more pronounced recently given the current pandemic infection of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐2019), still ongoing at the time that this review is being written. We review the current landscape of literature regarding ALI and ARDS etiology, pathophysiology, and therapeutics and present a potential role of m6A methylation. Additionally, we will establish the axiomatic principles of m6A methylation to provide a framework. In conclusion, METTL3, or methyltransferase‐like 3, the selective RNA methyltransferase for m6A, is a hub of proinflammatory gene expression regulation in ALI, and using a modern drug discovery strategy will identify new and effective ALI drug candidates targeting METTTL3.
Low Forces Push the Maturation of Neural Precursors into Neurons
Authors: De Vincentiis Sara , Baggiani Matteo , Merighi Francesca , Cappello Valentina , Lopane Jakub , Di Caprio Mariachiara , Costa Mario , Mainardi Marco , Onorati Marco , Raffa Vittoria
Published: April 2023

Mechanical stimulation modulates neural development and neuronal activity. In a previous study, magnetic “nano‐pulling” is proposed as a tool to generate active forces. By loading neural cells with magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), a precise force vector is remotely generated through static magnetic fields. In the present study, human neural stem cells (NSCs) are subjected to a standard differentiation protocol, in the presence or absence of nano‐pulling. Under mechanical stimulation, an increase in the length of the neural processes which showed an enrichment in microtubules, endoplasmic reticulum, and mitochondria is found. A stimulation lasting up to 82 days induces a strong remodeling at the level of synapse density and a re‐organization of the neuronal network, halving the time required for the maturation of neural precursors into neurons. The MNP‐loaded NSCs are then transplanted into mouse spinal cord organotypic slices, demonstrating that nano‐pulling stimulates the elongation of the NSC processes and modulates their orientation even in an ex vivo model. Thus, it is shown that active mechanical stimuli can guide the outgrowth of NSCs transplanted into the spinal cord tissue. The findings suggest that mechanical forces play an important role in neuronal maturation which could be applied in regenerative medicine.
A Simplified Amplification‐Free Strategy with Lyophilized CRISPR‐CcrRNA System for Drug‐Resistant Salmonella Detection
Authors: Bao Qi , Sun Jiadi , Fu Xuran , Sheng Lina , Ye Yongli , Ji Jian , Zhang Yinzhi , Wang Jiasheng , Ping Jianfeng , Sun Xiulan
Published: April 2023

Drug resistance in pathogenic bacteria has become a major threat to global health. The misuse of antibiotics has increased the number of resistant bacteria in the absence of rapid, accurate, and cost‐effective diagnostic tools. Here, an amplification‐free CRISPR‐Cas12a time‐resolved fluorescence immunochromatographic assay (AFC‐TRFIA) is used to detect drug‐resistant Salmonella. Multi‐locus targeting in combination crRNA (CcrRNA) is 27‐fold more sensitive than a standalone crRNA system. The lyophilized CRISPR system further simplifies the operation and enables one‐pot detection. Induction of nucleic acid fixation via differentially charged interactions reduced the time and cost required for flowmetric chromatography with enhanced stability. The induction of nucleic acid fixation via differentially charged interactions reduces the time and cost required for flowmetric chromatography with enhanced stability. The platform developed for the detection of drug‐resistant Salmonella has an ultra‐sensitive detection limit of 84 CFU mL−1 within 30 min, with good linearity in the range of 102–106 CFU mL−1. In real‐world applications, spiked recoveries range from 76.22% to 145.91%, with a coefficient of variation less than 10.59%. AFC‐TRFIA offers a cost‐effective, sensitive, and virtually equipment‐independent platform for preventing foodborne illnesses, screening for drug‐resistant Salmonella, and guiding clinical use.
Selective CO2 Electroreduction to Formate on Polypyrrole‐Modified Oxygen Vacancy‐Rich Bi2O3 Nanosheet Precatalysts by Local Microenvironment Modulation
Authors: Xu You , Guo Yiyi , Sheng Youwei , Yu Hongjie , Deng Kai , Wang Ziqiang , Li Xiaonian , Wang Hongjing , Wang Liang
Published: April 2023

Challenges remain in the development of highly efficient catalysts for selective electrochemical transformation of carbon dioxide (CO2) to high‐valued hydrocarbons. In this study, oxygen vacancy‐rich Bi2O3 nanosheets coated with polypyrrole (Bi2O3@PPy NSs) are designed and synthesized, as precatalysts for selective electrocatalytic CO2reduction to formate. Systematic material characterization demonstrated that Bi2O3@PPy precatalyst can evolve intoBi2O2CO3@PPy nanosheets with rich oxygen vacancies (Bi2O2CO3@PPy NSs) via electrolyte‐mediated conversion and function as the real active catalyst for CO2 reduction reaction electrocatalysis. Coating catalyst with a PPy shell can modulate the interfacial microenvironment of active sites, which work in coordination with rich oxygen vacancies in Bi2O2CO3 and efficiently mediate directional selective CO2 reduction toward formate formation. With the fine‐tuning of interfacial microenvironment, the optimized Bi2O3@PPy‐2 NSs derived Bi2O2CO3@PPy‐2 NSs exhibit a maximum Faradaic efficiency of 95.8% at −0.8 V (versus. reversible hydrogen electrode) for formate production. This work might shed some light on designing advanced catalysts toward selective electrocatalytic CO2 reduction through local microenvironment engineering.
Geometric and Electronic Structural Engineering of Isolated Ni Single Atoms for a Highly Efficient CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Song Inae , Eom Yaeeun , P Muthu Austeria , Hong Da Hye , Balamurugan Mani , Boppella Ramireddy , Kim Do Hwan , Kim Tae Kyu
Published: April 2023

Tuning the coordination environment and geometric structures of single atom catalysts is an effective approach for regulating the reaction mechanism and maximize the catalytic efficiency of single‐atom centers. Here, a template‐based synthesis strategy is proposed for the synthesis of high‐density NiNx sites anchored on the surface of hierarchically porous nitrogen‐doped carbon nanofibers (Ni‐HPNCFs) with different coordination environments. First‐principles calculations and advanced characterization techniques demonstrate that the single Ni atom is strongly coordinated with both pyrrolic and pyridinic N dopants, and that the predominant sites are stabilized by NiN3 sites. This dual engineering strategy increases the number of active sites and utilization efficiency of each single atom as well as boosts the intrinsic activity of each active site on a single‐atom scale. Notably, the Ni‐HPNCF catalyst achieves a high CO Faradaic efficiency (FECO) of 97% at a potential of −0.7 V, a high CO partial current density (jCO) of 49.6 mA cm−2 (−1.0 V), and a remarkable turnover frequency of 24 900 h−1 (−1.0 V) for CO2 reduction reactions (CO2RR). Density functional theory calculations show that compared to pyridinic‐type NiNx, the pyrrolic‐type NiN3 moieties display a superior CO2RR activity over hydrogen evolution reactions, resulting in their superior catalytic activity and selectivity.
Engineering the Surface Chemistry and Morphology of Polymeric Carbon Nitrides Towards Greener Heterogeneous Catalysts for Biodiesel Synthesis
Authors: de Medeiros Tayline V. , Macina Alexia , Bicalho Hudson A. , Naccache Rafik
Published: April 2023

Biodiesel remains one of the most promising alternatives to replace fossil fuel‐derived petrodiesel. Nonetheless, conventional biodiesel synthesis relies on homogeneous alkali‐based catalysts that involve long and tedious purification steps , increasing biodiesel production costs. Heterogeneous catalysts have emerged as promising alternatives to circumvent these drawbacks, as they can easily be recovered and reused. Herein, polymeric carbon nitride dots and nanosheets are synthesized through a solid‐phase reaction between urea and sodium citrate. Their morphology and surface chemistry are tuned by varying the precursor's ratio, and the materials are investigated as catalysts in the transesterification reaction of canola oil to biodiesel. A conversion of > 98% is achieved using a 5 wt% catalyst loading, oil to methanol ratio of 1:36 at 90 °C for 4 h, with the performance maintained over at least five reuse cycles. In addition, the effect of the transesterification reaction parameters on the reaction kinetics is evaluated, which follows a pseudo‐first‐order (PFO) regime. Combined with a deep understanding of the catalyst's surface, these results have allowed us to propose a reaction mechanism similar to the one observed for homogenous alkali catalysts. These carbon nitride‐based nanoparticles offer a metal‐free and cost‐effective alternative to conventional homogeneous and metal‐based heterogeneous catalysts.
Nanotechnology Approaches for Prevention and Treatment of Chemotherapy‐Induced Neurotoxicity, Neuropathy, and Cardiomyopathy in Breast and Ovarian Cancer Survivors
Authors: Nevins Sarah , McLoughlin Callan D. , Oliveros Alfredo , Stein Joshua B. , Rashid Mohammad Abdur , Hou Yannan , Jang Mi‐Hyeon , Lee Ki‐Bum
Published: April 2023

Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach for the targeted delivery of therapeutic agents while improving their efficacy and safety. As a result, nanomaterial development for the selective targeting of cancers, with the possibility of treating off‐target, detrimental sequelae caused by chemotherapy, is an important area of research. Breast and ovarian cancer are among the most common cancer types in women, and chemotherapy is an essential treatment modality for these diseases. However, chemotherapy‐induced neurotoxicity, neuropathy, and cardiomyopathy are common side effects that can affect breast and ovarian cancer survivors quality of life. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies for these adverse effects. Nanoparticles (NPs) have extreme potential for enhancing therapeutic efficacy but require continued research to elucidate beneficial interventions for women cancer survivors. In short, nanotechnology‐based approaches have emerged as promising strategies for preventing and treating chemotherapy‐induced neurotoxicity, neuropathy, and cardiomyopathy. NP‐based drug delivery systems and therapeutics have shown potential for reducing the side effects of chemotherapeutics while improving drug efficacy. In this article, the latest nanotechnology approaches and their potential for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy‐induced neurotoxicity, neuropathy, and cardiomyopathy in breast and ovarian cancer survivors are discussed.
Software medical device maintenance: DevOps based approach for problem and modification management
Authors: Martina Maria Raffaella , Bianchini Elisabetta , Sinceri Sara , Francesconi Martina , Gemignani Vincenzo
Published: April 2023

Software problem resolution and change control processes are crucial for the performance, safety, and regulatory clearance of a medical device. Software changes are frequent throughout the whole life cycle of a product; therefore, iterative analysis and risk assessment are necessary to determine the impact of changes on the whole system. IEC standard 62304 clarifies software medical device life cycle processes including problem and modification analysis and requirements. The aim of this work is to describe a cost‐effective and fully customizable solution for software medical devices problem and modification management implemented in our group. Key features of the problem and modification management related to the software life cycle have been identified and taken into account. A digital commercial platform for software development and maintenance has been identified and used to implement an architecture satisfying the standard. The architecture solution (SWMA, software maintenance architecture) has been successfully developed and a description of how it addresses IEC 62304 standard requirements both in terms of problem resolution and in terms of change control has been provided. The presented system can be useful for manufacturers/groups to establish software maintenance plans that include activities and tasks related to software problem resolution and change control processes. The approach can be adopted for analyzing and resolving problems arising before and after the release of a medical device.
Machine learning confirms new records of maniraptoran theropods in Middle JurassicUKmicrovertebrate faunas
Authors: Wills Simon , Underwood Charlie J. , Barrett Paul M.
Published: April 2023

Current research suggests that the initial radiation of maniraptoran theropods occurred in the Middle Jurassic, although their fossil record is known almost exclusively from the Cretaceous. However, fossils of Jurassic maniraptorans are scarce, usually consisting solely of isolated teeth, and their identifications are often disputed. Here, we apply different machine learning models, in conjunction with morphological comparisons, to a suite of isolated theropod teeth from Bathonian microvertebrate sites in the UK to determine whether any of these can be confidently assigned to Maniraptora. We generated three independent models developed on a training dataset with a wide range of theropod taxa and broad geographical and temporal coverage. Classification of the Middle Jurassic teeth in our sample against these models and comparison of the morphology indicates the presence of at least three distinct dromaeosaur morphotypes, plus a therizinosaur and troodontid in these assemblages. These new referrals significantly extend the ranges of Therizinosauroidea and Troodontidae by some 27 myr. These results indicate that not only were maniraptorans present in the Middle Jurassic, as predicted by previous phylogenetic analyses, but they had already radiated into a diverse fauna that pre‐dated the break‐up of Pangaea. This study also demonstrates the power of machine learning to provide quantitative assessments of isolated teeth in providing a robust, testable framework for taxonomic identifications, and highlights the importance of assessing and including evidence from microvertebrate sites in faunal and evolutionary analyses.
Structurally Engineered Silica Shells on Gold Nanorods for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Kim Min Jeong , Jung Do Hyeon , Lee Chae Yeon , Hong Seungpyo , Heo Jun Hyuk , Lee Jung Heon
Published: April 2023

Owing to their unique optical and chemical properties, gold nanorods (AuNRs) are among the most frequently used nanomaterials for biomedical applications, including cancer therapy, imaging, and drug delivery. In particular, the longitudinal dipole plasmon wavelength of AuNRs can be verified from the visible to the near‐infrared (NIR) region, allowing AuNRs to be used as photodynamic/photothermal and imaging contrast agents. At the same time, the silica shell is important as it enhances stability and facilitates the functionalization and biocompatibility of AuNRs, offering numerous advantages in biomedical applications. In this review, silica‐coated AuNRs from a bioapplication perspective are focused. First, the importance of AuNRs for biomedical applications is explained and the purpose of silica coating on AuNRs is discussed. Then, recent studies on the development of silica‐coated AuNRs from a biomedical perspective are reviewed. Subsequently, various strategies for engineering silica coatings and their properties in the biomedical field are reviewed. This review is expected to promote further research on next‐generation silica‐coated AuNRs for biomedical applications.
Modeling, simulation, and trade‐off analysis for multirobot, multioperator surveillance
Authors: Humann James , Fletcher TaLena , Gerdes John
Published: April 2023

As unmanned vehicles become smaller and more autonomous, it is becoming feasible to use them in large groups with comparatively few human operators. Design and analysis of such distributed systems are complicated by the many interactions among agents and phenomena of human behavior. In particular, human susceptibility to fatigue and cognitive overload can introduce errors and uncertainty into the system. In this paper, we demonstrate how advanced computational tools can help to overcome these engineering difficulties by optimizing multirobot, multioperator surveillance systems for cost, speed, accuracy, and stealth according to diverse user preferences in multiple case studies. The tool developed is a graphical user interface that returns the optimal number and mix of diverse agent types as a function of the user's trade‐off preferences. System performance prediction relies on a multiagent simulation with submodels for human operators, fixed‐wing unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), quadrotor UAVs, and flapping wing UAVs combined in different numbers.
Development of Electrophilic Radical Perfluoroalkylation of Electron‐Deficient Olefins
Authors: Tagami Koto , Yajima Tomoko
Published: April 2023

Fluorinated organic compounds have attracted significant attention over the past few decades owing to their unique properties and versatility. An established method for the synthesis of fluorinated organic compounds involves radical perfluoroalkylation reactions towards double bonds. In this radical pathway, electrophilic perfluoroalkyl radicals exhibit excellent reactivity towards electron‐rich olefins. Therefore, several splendid perfluoroalkylation reactions of electron‐rich olefins have been reported. However, there are only a few examples of reaction involving electron‐deficient olefins because of their poor electronic compatibility with perfluoroalkyl radicals. This review focuses on the reports that challenge this long‐standing issue. Radical perfluoroalkylation/bifunctionalization reactions of electron‐deficient olefins are described according to the radical generation methods.
Asymmetric Organocatalyzed Intermolecular Functionalization of Cyclohexanone‐Derived Dienones
Authors: Coutant Corinne , De Bonfils Paul , Nun Pierrick , Coeffard Vincent
Published: April 2023

Over the past decades, the advent of asymmetric organocatalysis has changed the way chemists think about creating or breaking chemical bonds, enabling new enantioselective strategies for functionalized molecules. The success of asymmetric organocatalysis is notably based on the existence of various activation modes, leading to countless transformations, and on the vast array of available chiral organic catalysts. Breakthroughs in this area have also been driven by selective functionalization of compounds with multiple activation sites such as cyclohexanone‐derived dienones. These platforms can undergo diverse transformations such as Michael addition, Friedel‐Crafts alkylation or Diels‐Alder cycloaddition that offer new opportunities for reaching natural products and biologically relevant compounds. Amongst cyclohexanone‐derived dienones, the 2,5‐cyclohexadienone motif has received a great deal of attention due to its reactivity pattern and recently, (cross)‐conjugated cyclohexanone‐derived substrates have also been considered. In this review, we discuss the intermolecular functionalization of (cross)‐conjugated cyclohexanone‐derived compounds employing asymmetric organocatalysis.
Development of Stable Carbanionic Substituents
Authors: Yanai Hikaru
Published: April 2023

During the past decade, carbon (C−H) acids depicted as ‘Tf2CHR’ (Tf=CF3SO2) have attracted considerable attention as a new class of superacidic molecules, which show stronger acidity than sulfuric acid molecules. In recent years, the author has developed a synthetic methodology for such strong acids and has opened the door to chemistry of highly stabilised carbanions [Tf2CR]−, which are the conjugate bases of the carbon acids. These carbanion‐containing salts are stable and easy‐to‐handle species. Our efforts have revealed that the ionic but lipophilic characters of this type of carbanion can be used as a unique ‘substituent’ for increasing both the water solubility and the lipophilicity of organic compounds. This Personal Account provides an overview of our [Tf2CR]− chemistry, including its synthesis, structure, reactivity, and applications.
Uncovering the metabolomic effects of Kampo formulas using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy: A case study of goreisan
Authors: Awale Suresh , Jo Michiko , Watanabe Shiro , Shibahara Naotoshi , Matsumoto Kinzo
Published: April 2023

Aim

The purpose of this study was to explore the effects of goreisan (GRS) on rats through the analysis of 1H‐NMR of urine samples, to assess the variations in metabolites affected by GRS, and to gain a new metabolomic understanding of the effects of Kampo medicine.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were randomly divided into two groups: a control group that was fed a standard diet, and a GRS group that was fed a 1% GRS diet. The study was conducted over a four‐week period. At the end of the experiment, urine samples were analyzed using 1H‐NMR spectroscopy to evaluate the metabolic changes induced by GRS administration. Additionally, various blood parameters were also analyzed.

Results

Administration of GRS resulted in an elevation of lactate, acetate, and other metabolites, such as trimethylamine‐N‐oxide and hippurate, in urine. Additionally, there was a significant decrease in the blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level in the blood of the GRS‐treated group.

Conclusion

This study has highlighted the substantial changes in lactate, acetate, and other urine metabolites caused by GRS. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of 1H‐NMR spectroscopy in assessing metabolic alterations in response to the therapeutic application of a Kampo formula. This research contributes to the knowledge of mechanisms of action from a metabolomic point of view and offers fresh insights into the effects of complex Kampo formulas such as GRS, using 1H‐NMR spectroscopic techniques.
Maintenance of UK bread baking quality: Trends in wheat quality traits over 50 years of breeding and potential for future application of genomic‐assisted selection
Authors: Fradgley Nick S. , Bentley Alison R. , Gardner Keith A. , Swarbreck Stéphanie M. , Kerton Matt
Published: April 2023

Improved selection of wheat varieties with high end‐use quality contributes to sustainable food systems by ensuring productive crops are suitable for human consumption end‐uses. Here, we investigated the genetic control and genomic prediction of milling and baking quality traits in a panel of 379 historic and elite, high‐quality UK bread wheat (Triticum eastivum L.) varieties and breeding lines. Analysis of the panel showed that genetic diversity has not declined over recent decades of selective breeding while phenotypic analysis found a clear trend of increased loaf baking quality of modern milling wheats despite declining grain protein content. Genome‐wide association analysis identified 24 quantitative trait loci (QTL) across all quality traits, many of which had pleiotropic effects. Changes in the frequency of positive alleles of QTL over recent decades reflected trends in trait variation and reveal where progress has historically been made for improved baking quality traits. It also demonstrates opportunities for marker‐assisted selection for traits such as Hagberg falling number and specific weight that do not appear to have been improved by recent decades of phenotypic selection. We demonstrate that applying genomic prediction in a commercial wheat breeding program for expensive late‐stage loaf baking quality traits outperforms phenotypic selection based on early‐stage predictive quality traits. Finally, trait‐assisted genomic prediction combining both phenotypic and genomic selection enabled slightly higher prediction accuracy, but genomic prediction alone was the most cost‐effective selection strategy considering genotyping and phenotyping costs per sample.