bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in temporal acuity with age and with hearing impairment in the mouse: A study of the acoustic startle reflex and its inhibition by brief decrements in noise level
Authors: Ison James R. , Agrawal Punit , Pak James , Vaughn William J.
Published: July 2002

Temporal acuity for brief gaps in noise was studied in mice of different ages (1–36 months) from strains with differing susceptibility to age-related hearing loss, using reflex modification audiometry. Prepulse inhibition of the acoustic startle reflex (ASR) increased with gap depth (GD: 10–40 dB in 70 dB SPL noise) and lead time (LT: 1–15 ms). The increase in inhibition with LT followed an exponential function in which the two parameters, asymptotic inhibition (AINH) and the time constant (τ), were both affected by GD. AINH rapidly declined from 1 to 6 and then to 18 months of age in C57BL/6J mice with progressively severe hearing loss, but first increased with maturation and then gradually declined beyond 6–12 months of age in CBA/CaJ and CBA×C57BL F1-hybrid mice, which show no apparent change in sensory function at these ages. In contrast, τ was unaffected by hearing loss or by age, this suggesting that age-related changes in this form of temporal acuity occur because of a reduction in the efficiency with which gaps are centrally processed, not from any reduced ability to follow their rapid shift in noise level.
Investigation of the effects of temporal and spatial interactions on speech-recognition skills in cochlear-implant subjects
Authors: Throckmorton Chandra S. , Collins Leslie M.
Published: July 2002

Forward masking was investigated as a measure of spectral and temporal interactions. Such interactions may adversely affect speech recognition in cochlear-implant subjects. Seven subjects, implanted with the Nucleus 22 device, performed a forward-masking task. They also performed an electrode-discrimination task in order to measure spectral interactions without temporal interactions. Correlation analysis indicated a significant relationship between data obtained in the two tasks (p<0.1). The two tasks were also correlated with the subjects’ scores from five measures of speech recognition. Forward masking and electrode discrimination were strongly correlated with measures requiring consonant and phoneme recognition, respectively. These results indicate that the relationship between forward masking and speech recognition may be due, in part, to a lack of spectral resolution. The data also indicate that consonants may be more readily masked than vowels. Forward-masking data measured for all clinically programmed electrodes in three of the seven subjects were used with a model of the spectral maxima sound processor (SMSP) to estimate the number of electrodes stimulated during a consonant that might be masked by prior presentation of a vowel. These results suggest that temporal interactions across electrodes may be a factor in speech-recognition abilities of some cochlear-implant subjects.
Environmental constraints on sound transmission by humpback whales
Authors: Mercado Eduardo , Frazer L. Neil
Published: July 2002

Singing humpback whales in Hawaii produce a variety of sounds at high source levels (ca. 185 dB re: 1 μPa), in coastal waters 15–500 m deep. These sounds are attenuated and distorted as they propagate away from a singer, limiting the utilizable range of the sounds. In the current study, simulations based on normal-mode theory were used to investigate how the effects of shallow-water propagation constrain humpback whales’ use of sound. It is shown that humpbacks can greatly affect transmission range by adjusting their positions and sounds in response to environmental factors. Source depth, in particular, is shown to be a major determinant of which frequencies propagate the farthest. A preliminary analysis of range-dependent distortion suggests that spectral cues can potentially provide listening whales with information about how far a sound has traveled.
The extracellular matrix is an important source of ultrasound backscatter from myocardium
Authors: Hall Christopher S. , Scott Michael J. , Lanza Gregory M. , Miller James G. , Wickline Samuel A.
Published: July 2002

Ultrasound tissue characterization with measurement of backscatter has been employed in numerous experimental and clinical studies of cardiac pathology, yet the cellular components responsible for scattering from cardiac tissues have not been unequivocally identified. This laboratory has proposed a mathematical model for myocardial backscatter that postulates the fibrous extracellular matrix (ECM) as a significant determinant of backscatter. To demonstrate the importance of ECM, this group sought to determine whether measurements of backscatter from the isolated ECM could reproduce the known directional dependence, or anisotropy of backscatter, from intact cardiac tissues in vitro. Segments of left ventricular free wall from ten formalin fixed porcine hearts were insonified at 50 MHz, traversing the heart wall from endo- to epicardium to measure the anisotropy of myocardial backscatter, defined as the difference between peak (perpendicular to fibers) and trough (parallel to fibers) backscatter amplitude. The tissue segments were then treated with 10% NaOH to dissolve all of the cellular components, leaving only the intact ECM. Scanning electron micrographs (SEM) were obtained of tissue sections to reveal complete digestion of the cellular elements. The dimensions of the residual voids resulting from cell digestion were approximately the diameter of the intact myocytes (10–30 μm). These samples were reinsonified after seven days of treatment to compare the anisotropy of integrated backscatter. The magnitude of anisotropy of backscatter changed from 15.4±0.8 to 12.6±1.1 dB for intact as compared with digested specimens. Because digestion of the myocardium leaves only extracellular sources of ultrasonic scattering, and because the isolated ECM exhibits similar ultrasonic anisotropy as does the intact myocardium, it is concluded that there is a direct association between the ECM and the anisotropy of backscatter within intact tissue. Thus, it is suggested that ultrasonic tissue characterization represents a potentially clinically applicable method for delineating the structure and function of the ECM.
Elasticity of Random Media
Authors: Hashin Zvi
Published: July 2002

Existing rigorous theories of prediction of macroscopic elastic behavior of random media are discussed. Attention is focused on statistically homogeneous and isotropic multiphase materials and polycrystals and on fiber reinforced materials. Direct approaches for dilute suspension theory and variational approaches for arbitrary phase fractional volumes are surveyed. New results are given for elastic behavior of cubic polycrystalline mixtures and for a couple stress constant of a dilute spheres suspension.
Numerical interconversion of linear viscoelastic material functions
Authors: Mead D. W.
Published: July 2002

Calculation of the relaxation modulus in a manner which addresses the ill-posed nature of the problem specifically in the terminal and plateau regions is essential in order to subsequently determine a molecular weight distribution. A novel method to effect this result is demonstrated. The relaxation modulus is modeled as a discrete N element Maxwell (N≫1) line spectrum. The method incorporates additional independent rheological data into a constrained linear regression with regularization. Specifically, the zero shear viscosity and the steady-state recoverable compliance are used to impose integral moment equality constraints on the calculated relaxation modulus. Moment constraints necessarily generate a self-consistent conversion. All moduli are further constrained to be positive. The numerical method is robust and capable of extracting meaningful relaxation spectra from severely error infected and/or incomplete data sets. Imposing moment constraints dramatically reduces the error and dispersion of the calculated relaxation and retardation spectra in the terminal and plateau regions. Analytic conversion of the relaxation modulus to the compliance function is demonstrated through knowledge of the root sequence for a discrete Maxwell model.
High frequency modulus of hard sphere colloids
Authors: Lionberger R. A. , Russel W. B.
Published: July 2002

The singular nature of the hard sphere potential combined with lubrication stresses near contact poses interesting issues with respect to the high frequency viscoelastic behavior. Dilute theories demonstrate clearly that soft potentials and/or lubrication stresses that reduce the relative mobility to zero at contact lead to a well defined plateau in G′ as ω→∞, whereas a hard sphere potential without hydrodynamic interaction produces G′≊ω1/2 in this limit. The former follows from a small deformation of the equilibrium structure due solely to the oscillatory convection and the latter from a diffusional boundary layer near contact required to satisfy the no-flux boundary condition. Two sets of data that delineate the high frequency response for colloidal hard spheres at high volume fraction appear to differ in this regime, suggesting different physics for the interactions at small separations. Here we apply our nonequilibrium theory to extend the existing treatments to high volume fractions to predict both limits quantitatively and provide a possible interpretation for the experimental results. The two experimental systems only differ in the surface modification of the particles and the high frequency modulus is the only rheological property sensitive to this difference. The predictions of our theory with varying extent of hydrodynamic interaction illustrate the link between the behavior of the high frequency modulus and the hydrodynamic properties very near the particle surface.
Fully distributed containment of multiple‐input‐multiple‐output linear multi‐agent systems with multiple nonautonomous leaders
Authors: Tian Huanhuan , Wang Peijun , Huang Tingwen
Published: August 2022

In this article, we study the fully distributed containment problem for multiple‐input‐multiple‐output linear multi‐agent systems (MASs) with multiple nonautonomous leaders (i.e., leaders with nonzero inputs). First, based on an unknown input observer (UIO) with full order and by using unit vector method, we design an adaptive discontinuous controller, where the adaptive law is used to adjust network coupling strengths. And by using Barbǎlat lemma, we show that fully distributed containment can be achieved if the graph is connected and the subgraph among multiple followers is detail balanced. Second, we study fully distributed containment for MASs under an adaptive discontinuous controller based on a UIO with reduced order. Moreover, we study the case with directed switching topology. Finally, we perform simulations on a team of aircrafts to validate the theoretical results.
Development and Validation of a Calculation Routine for the Precise Determination of Pulse Overlap and Accumulated Fluence in Pulsed Laser Surface Treatment
Authors: Fox Tobias , Mücklich Frank
Published: August 2022

In laser material processing, a variety of parameters like pulse fluence, total dose, step size, and pulse‐to‐pulse overlap are used to define and compare laser processes. Of these parameters, the pulse‐to‐pulse overlap can be the hardest to access as it is not implemented directly but instead depends on the spot diameter, its shape, and the respective scanning path that is used to cover the surface. This article shows that existing calculation routes overestimate the actual overlap by up to 21%. A novel calculation route is developed that greatly facilitates the determination of the pulse overlap and thereby the average number of laser pulses that interact with a given point on the surface. This approach makes it possible to achieve more reliable and comparable laser processes, which in return leads to better control of the procedure as the effect of individual parameters on a given output can be determined with greater precision.
Construction of Long‐Wavelength Emissive Organic Nanosonosensitizer Targeting Mitochondria for Precise and Efficient In Vivo Sonotherapy
Authors: Zhang Xiangqian , Li Chonglu , Zhang Yi , Guan Xiaofang , Mei Longcan , Feng Huili , Li Jie , Tu Le , Feng Guoqiang , Deng Ganzhen , Sun Yao
Published: July 2022

As a modern biomedical therapeutic modality, sonodynamic therapy (SDT) presents unique advantages, including superior tissue penetration capability, temporal–spatial controllability, and negligible side effects. However, the bottlenecks of most organic sonosensitizers are their short emission wavelengths, strong phototoxicity, and unsatisfactory SDT effect, which undermines the precise fluorescence imaging‐guided SDT in vivo. Here, a long‐wavelength emissive and mitochondria‐targeted organic nanosonosensitizer, named CCNU980 nanoparticles (NPs), is rationally designed, which possesses deep‐tissue optical penetration (up to 6 mm), depth‐activated ROS production (up to 8 cm), high photostability, and low phototoxicity. In vitro studies verify CCNU980 NPs selectively enriches in cancer cells with the ability to target the mitochondria and induce mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis using abundant 1O2 under US irradiation. Notably, CCNU980 NPs enables precise in vivo NIR‐II fluorescence imaging‐guided SDT, accompanied by the suppression of the bilateral 4T1 tumor growth with minimal side effects. The current work can inspire a general strategy for the design of organic nanosonosensitizers with long‐wavelength emission and new thoughts for precision medicine.
Building a Self‐Adaptive Protective Layer on Ni‐Rich Layered Cathodes to Enhance the Cycle Stability of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yang Hua , Gao Rui‐Min , Zhang Xu‐Dong , Liang Jia‐Yan , Meng Xin‐Hai , Lu Zhuo‐Ya , Cao Fei‐Fei , Ye Huan
Published: August 2022

Layered Ni‐rich lithium transition metal oxides are promising battery cathodes due to their high specific capacity, but their poor cycling stability due to intergranular cracks in secondary particles restricts their practical applications. Surface engineering is an effective strategy for improving a cathode's cycling stability, but most reported surface coatings cannot adapt to the dynamic volume changes of cathodes. Herein, a self‐adaptive polymer (polyrotaxane‐co‐poly(acrylic acid)) interfacial layer is built on LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2. The polymer layer with a slide‐ring structure exhibits high toughness and can withstand the stress caused by particle volume changes, which can prevent the cracking of particles. In addition, the slide‐ring polymer acts as a physicochemical barrier that suppresses surface side reactions and alleviates the dissolution of transition metallic ions, which ensures stable cycling performance. Thus, the as‐prepared cathode shows significantly improved long‐term cycling stability in situations in which cracks may easily occur, especially under high‐rate, high‐voltage, and high‐temperature conditions.
Polishing the Lead‐Poor Surface for Efficient Inverted CsPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Fu Sheng , Le Jiabo , Guo Xueming , Sun Nannan , Zhang Wenxiao , Song Weijie , Fang Junfeng
Published: August 2022

Triiodide cesium lead perovskite (CsPbI3) has promising prospects in the development of efficient and stable photovoltaics in both single‐junction and tandem structures. However, achieving inverted devices that provide good stability and are compatible to tandem devices remains a challenge, and the deep insights are still not understood. This study finds that the surface components of CsPbI3 are intrinsically lead‐poor and the relevant traps are of p‐type with localized states. These deep‐energy‐level p traps induce inferior transfer or electrons and serious nonradiative recombination at the CsPbI3/PCBM interface, leading to the considerable open‐circuit voltage (Voc) loss and reduction of fill factor (FF). Compared to molecular passivation, polishing treatment with 1,4‐butanediamine can eliminate the nonstoichiometric components and root these intrinsically lead‐poor traps for superior electron transfer. The polishing treatment significantly improves the FF and Voc of the inverted CsPbI3 photovoltaics, creating an efficiency promotion from 12.64% to 19.84%. Moreover, 95% of the initial efficiency of the optimized devices is maintained after the output operation for 1000 h.
Treatment strategies for unruptured pancreaticoduodenal artery aneurysms associated with celiac artery occlusion
Authors: Kubota Koji , Shimizu Akira , Notake Tsuyoshi , Wada Yuko , Soejima Yuji
Published: August 2022

Celiac artery (CA) occlusion or stenosis is identified in up to almost half of all patients undergoing abdominal angiography, and the resulting increased collateral blood flow from the superior mesenteric artery to the pancreaticoduodenal artery (PDA) may cause PDA aneurysms (PDAAs). PDAAs are rare but could be fatal if they rupture. However, treatment of the PDAA could block this important collateral blood flow pathway, leading to ischemic organ damage. Treatment of such aneurysms is therefore difficult, especially in patients with multiple PDAAs. Successful treatment of PDAAs requires establishing blood flow in the CA region and selecting which aneurysm(s) to treat. We present four patients who underwent surgery for unruptured PDAAs caused by CA obstruction. Blood flow in the CA region was established by bypassing the splenic artery and by anastomosing it either directly to the left renal artery (n = 1) or to the abdominal aorta using a graft (saphenous vein: n = 1; artificial vessel: n = 2). Three patients had multiple PDAAs: all PDAAs were treated in one patient with PDAAs of similar size and shape, but only the largest PDAA with the highest risk of rupture was treated in the other two patients to simplify the procedure. The median observation period was 19.5 months (range: 11‐28 months), and all patients were alive without recurrence at the time of writing. Surgical treatment including splenic artery bypass may thus be a viable option for treating patients with unruptured PDAAs.
Wall‐resolved large eddy simulation of turbulent flows in helically ribbed steam cracker reactors
Authors: Wang Yannan , Dedeyne Jens N. , Vandewalle Laurien A. , Van Geem Kevin M.
Published: August 2022

Helically ribbed coils are commonly applied in steam cracking furnaces. To fully understand the impact of these ribbed wall modifications on the local heat transfer and associated pressure drop throughout the reactor, detailed experimental, and numerical studies have been performed. Experimental data based on stereo‐particle image velocimetry (S‐PIV) and liquid crystal thermography have been used to validate the numerical results from wall‐resolved large eddy simulations using OpenFOAM. The validation shows an excellent agreement in terms of mean and fluctuating velocities, pressure drop, and heat transfer behavior in a discontinuously ribbed tube. Compared with the pressure drop in a continuously ribbed tube, an approximately 40% lower pressure drop is obtained with a discontinuously ribbed tube, at the cost of a slightly decreased heat transfer enhancement. This makes the discontinuously ribbed tube design particularly interesting for steam cracking applications. The results also show that the nonuniform heat transfer at the wall is inherently linked to the flow reattachment and recirculation zones caused by the rib. Finally, the validated numerical model was used to study comparable designs and propose novel helical rib designs. Based on the results of the study, enlarging the trailing edge of the conventional ribbed geometry will improve the thermal enhancement performance, and is therefore found most promising for steam cracking reactor design.
Case report of mild TCIRG1‐associated autosomal recessive osteopetrosis in Vietnam
Authors: Luong Long Hoang , Nguyen Hieu Dinh , Trung Tuyen Nguyen , Minh Tam Mai Thi , Khanh Trinh Le , Son Tung Pham , Tran Tien Dang , Nguyen Tran Thuy
Published: August 2022

Autosomal recessive osteopetrosis (ARO) is a group of disease characterized by osteoclast dysfunction inhibiting bone resorption and bone turnover, with TCIRG1‐associated ARO being more common leading to autosomal recessive infantile malignant osteopetrosis (OPTB1, MIM entry number # 259700). While most patients with TCIRG1‐associated osteopetrosis present a malignant clinical course and shortened lifespan, a few cases of non‐malignant TCIRG1‐associated osteopetrosis have been reported. 24‐year‐old female patient came to us with limp gait, hip pain in both sides, and severe stiffness. She had suffered many fractures, bilateral hip osteoarthritis, right leg was 2 cm shorter compared with left leg. Whole Exome Sequencing was conducted, the result and subsequent Sanger's sequencing shown the patient had a compound heterozygous genotype at TCIRG1 (c.1194dup, p.Gly399ArgTer and c.334G>A, p.Gly112Arg), these two variants found were not previously reported. Sanger's sequencing revealed two other siblings whom suffer the same disorder had similar genotype to the proband; the parents were found to be heterozygous. This is the first case of TCIRG1‐associated osteopetrosis reported in Vietnam and one of the few cases of nonmalignant TCIRG1‐associated osteopetrosis, in which detailed clinical and genetic work‐up were performed.
Putting participants and study partners FIRST when clinical trials end early
Authors: Largent Emily A. , Walter Sarah , Childs Nancy , Dacks Penny A. , Dodge Shana , Florian Hana , Jackson Jonathan , Llibre Guerra Jorge J. , Iturriaga Erin , Miller David S. , Moreno Monica , Nosheny Rachel L. , Obisesan Thomas O. , Portacolone Elena , Siddiqi Bernadette , Silverberg Nina , Warren Rueben C. , Welsh‐Bohmer Kathleen A. , Edelmayer Rebecca M. ,   the Participant FIRST Work Group
Published: August 2022

Between 2018 and 2019, multiple clinical trials ended earlier than planned, resulting in calls to improve communication with and support for participants and their study partners (“dyads”). The multidisciplinary Participant Follow‐Up Improvement in Research Studies and Trials (Participant FIRST) Work Group met throughout 2021. Its goals were to identify best practices for communicating with and supporting dyads affected by early trial stoppage. The Participant FIRST Work Group identified 17 key recommendations spanning the pre‐trial, mid‐trial, and post‐trial periods. These focus on prospectively allocating sufficient resources for orderly closeout; developing dyad‐centered communication plans; helping dyads build and maintain support networks; and, if a trial stops, informing dyads rapidly. Participants and study partners invest time, effort, and hope in their research participation. The research community should take intentional steps toward better communicating with and supporting participants when clinical trials end early. The Participant FIRST recommendations are a practical guide for embarking on that journey.
Semiconducting Copolymers with Naphthalene Imide/Amide π‐Conjugated Units: Synthesis, Crystallography, and Systematic Structure‐Property‐Mobility Correlations
Authors: Chen Yao , Wu Jianglin , Lu Shirong , Facchetti Antonio , Marks Tobin J.
Published: August 2022

In a series of n‐type semiconducting naphthalene tetracarboxydiimide (NDI)‐dithiophene (T2) copolymers, structural and electronic properties trends are systematically evaluated as the number of NDI carbonyl groups is reduced from 4 in NDI to 3 in NBL (1‐amino‐4,5‐8‐naphthalene‐tricarboxylic acid‐1,8‐lactam‐4,5‐imide) to 2 in NBA (naphthalene‐bis(4,8‐diamino‐1,5‐dicarboxyl)‐amide). As the NDI‐T2 backbone torsional angle falls the LUMO energy rises. However, the thienyl attachment regiochemistry also plays an important role in less symmetric NBL and NBA. Electron mobility is greatest for N2200 (0.17 cm2 V−1 s−1) followed by PNBL‐3,8‐T2 and PNBA‐2,6‐T2 (0.11 cm2 V−1 s−1), 0.02 cm2 V−1 s−1 in PNBL‐4,8‐T2, and negligible in PNBA‐3,7‐T2. Charge transport reflects a delicate balance between electronic backbone communication (optimum for N2200 and PNBL‐4,8‐T2), backbone planarity (optimum for PNBA‐2,6‐T2 and PNBL‐3,8‐T2), LUMO energy (optimum for N2200), π–π stacking distance (optimum for PNBA‐2,6‐T2), and film crystallinity (optimum for PNBA‐2,6‐T2 and N2200). These results offer generalizable insight into semiconducting copolymer design.
Single‐Step Synthesis of Atropisomers with Vicinal C−C and C−N Diaxes by Cobalt‐Catalyzed Atroposelective C−H Annulation
Authors: Wang Bing‐Jie , Xu Guo‐Xiong , Huang Zong‐Wei , Wu Xu , Hong Xin , Yao Qi‐Jun , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: August 2022

The atroposelective synthesis of atropisomers with vicinal diaxes remains rare and challenging, due to the steric influence between the two axes and their unique topology. Herein, we disclose a single‐step construction of atropisomers with vicinal C−C and C−N chiral diaxes by cyclopentadiene (Cp)‐free cobalt‐catalyzed intramolecular atroposelective C−H annulation, providing the desired diaxial atropisomers of unique structures with decent stereocontrols of both axes (up to >99 % ee and 70 : 1 dr). The optically pure products bearing fluorophores show circular polarized luminescence (CPL) properties, being candidate materials for potential CPL applications. Atropisomerization experiments and density function theory (DFT) calculations are conducted to study the rotational barriers and rotation pathways of the diaxes.
Ring‐to‐Thread Chirality Transfer in [2]Rotaxanes for the Synthesis of Enantioenriched Lactams
Authors: Lopez‐Leonardo Carmen , Saura‐Sanmartin Adrian , Marin‐Luna Marta , Alajarin Mateo , Martinez‐Cuezva Alberto , Berna Jose
Published: August 2022

The synthesis of chiral mechanically interlocked molecules has attracted a lot of attention in the last few years, with applications in different fields, such as asymmetric catalysis or sensing. Herein we describe the synthesis of orientational mechanostereoisomers, which include a benzylic amide macrocycle with a stereogenic center, and nonsymmetric N‐(arylmethyl)fumaramides as the axis. The base‐promoted cyclization of the initial fumaramide thread allows enantioenriched value‐added compounds, such as lactams of different ring sizes and amino acids, to be obtained. The chiral information is effectively transmitted across the mechanical bond from the encircling ring to the interlocked lactam. High levels of enantioselectivity and full control of the regioselectivity of the final cyclic compounds are attained.
Bimetallic Catalysis in Stereodivergent Synthesis
Authors: Huo Xiaohong , Li Guanlin , Wang Xi , Zhang Wanbin
Published: August 2022

Bimetallic catalysis has emerged as an efficient strategy for the development of new chemical reactions. Importantly, this strategy also provides a simple and powerful platform for stereodivergent synthesis, whereby all the possible stereoisomers of products bearing two stereocenters can be easily prepared from the same set of starting materials. In this Minireview, the development of stereodivergent allylic substitution, propargylic substitution, hydrofunctionalization, and annulation based on bimetallic catalysis has been summarized. It is expected that more bimetallic catalytic systems will be developed and applied for the stereodivergent synthesis of valuable molecules.
Kinetic‐Sieving of Carbon Dioxide from Acetylene through a Novel Sulfonic Ultramicroporous Material
Authors: Cui Jiyu , Qiu Zhensong , Yang Lifeng , Zhang Zhaoqiang , Cui Xili , Xing Huabin
Published: August 2022

The engineering and tailoring of porous materials to realize the precise discrimination of CO2 and C2H2, with almost identical kinetic diameters, is a challenging task. We herein report the first example of the kinetic‐sieving of relatively larger molecule of C2H2 from CO2 by a novel sulfonic anion‐pillared hybrid ultramicroporous materials of ZU‐610a. Specifically, ZU‐610 constructed from copper(II), isonicotinic acid and 1,2‐ethanedisulfonic acid is synthesized and shows the preferential affinity for C2H2 over CO2. After the post‐synthetic heat treatment of ZU‐610, ZU‐610a with a contracted aperture is obtained. Interestingly, the C2H2‐selctive ZU‐610 was reversed to the CO2‐selective ZU‐610a. High purity C2H2 (>99.5 %) could be directly obtained from the dynamic breakthrough experiments on an equimolar C2H2/CO2 mixture at 298 K. This study provides guidance for the design of adsorbents aimed at separation systems with similar kinetic diameter.
An Activatable Near‐Infrared Afterglow Theranostic Prodrug with Self‐Sustainable Magnification Effect of Immunogenic Cell Death
Authors: Gao Zhiyuan , Jia Shaorui , Ou Hanlin , Hong Yuning , Shan Ke , Kong Xianglong , Wang Zhiming , Feng Guangxue , Ding Dan
Published: August 2022

Herein, we report an activatable near‐infrared (NIR) afterglow theranostic prodrug that circumvents high background noise interference caused by external light excitation. The prodrug can release hydroxycamptothecin (HCPT) in response to the high intratumoral peroxynitrite level associated with immunogenic cell death (ICD), and synchronously activate afterglow signal to monitor the drug release process and cold‐to‐hot tumor transformation. The prodrug itself is an ICD inducer achieved by photodynamic therapy (PDT). PDT initiates ICD and recruits first‐arrived neutrophils to secrete peroxynitrite to trigger HCPT release. Intriguingly, we demonstrate that HCPT can significantly amplify PDT‐mediated ICD process. The prodrug thus shows a self‐sustainable ICD magnification effect by establishing an “ICD‐HCPT release‐amplified ICD” cycling loop. In vivo studies demonstrate that the prodrug can eradicate existing tumors and prevent further tumor recurrence through antitumor immune response.
Fe3O4@CS‐Ni: An efficient and recyclable magnetic nanocatalyst for α‐alkylation of ketones with benzyl alcohols by borrowing hydrogen methodology
Authors: Taheri‐Torbati Mina , Eshghi Hossein
Published: August 2022

This paper reports a heterogeneous magnetic impressive nickel catalyst in which Fe3O4 nanoparticles have been coated with chitosan and decorated with nickel nanoparticles (Fe3O4@CS‐Ni). This catalyst has been used for direct α‐alkylation of aryl ketones with substituted benzyl alcohols through borrowing hydrogen and dehydrogenation mechanism that affords the corresponding α‐benzyl ketones, with good to excellent yield. The core‐shell morphology has been confirmed with different analysis techniques such as Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), SEM mapping, energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), inductively coupled plasma (ICP), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Moreover, the catalyst could be recovered from the reaction mixture by using an external magnetic field and reused for six successive cycles without a considerable decrease in catalytic activity.
Synthesis and evaluation of novel almazole D analogs as anticancer agents
Authors: Oluyori Abimbola P. , Harini Tirunagari , Sangu Komal G. , Krishna Eruva Vamshi , Jadav Surender S. , Misra Sunil , Rode Haridas B.
Published: August 2022

Novel almazole D–amide conjugates, esters, and N‐alkylated analogs were synthesized and investigated for their anticancer activity against seven cancer cell lines. Among the series, compounds 5g and 5m showed significant anticancer activities against multiple cell lines with moderate selectivity indices. Compound 5g had IC50 values of 5.86 ± 0.31, 9.94 ± 0.06, 12.74 ± 0.12, and 9.40 ± 0.03 μM against the B16‐F10, DU145, HeLa, and LC‐540 cell lines, respectively, while compound 5m showed IC50 values of 6.35 ± 0.09, 9.17 ± 0.11, 9.00 ± 0.011, 19.65 ± 0.63, 8.13 ± 0.04, and 11.56 ± 0.01 μM against B16‐F10, DU145, HeLa, HepG2, LC‐540, and SK‐BR‐3 cells, respectively. Compared to almazole D, which only showed significant activity against B16‐F10 cells (IC50 = 9.05 ± 0.008 μM), the synthesized analogs showed improved anticancer activity against multiple cell lines. The kinase inhibition assay coupled with the docking studies revealed that epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) kinase inhibition via interaction with amino acid residue T790 on the EGFR is one of the possible mechanisms by which 5g exerts its anticancer potential. The ADMET prediction and drug‐likeness of the analogs project the synthesized analogs as promising agents, which can be further developed for application in cancer therapy.
Bioproducts from proteins in neem seed oil meals
Authors: Aramwit Pornanong , Shubashree K. R. , Nagananda G. S. , Reddy Roopa , Kavya S. , Reddy Narendra
Published: July 2022

Extraction of oil from Azadirachta indica generates oil cake (meal) containing proteins and carbohydrates. The proteins in neem oil cake with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties have been made into films and studied for their properties and potential applications. Neem oil cakes are available in large quantities at low cost but are non‐edible and have limited applications. Currently, most of the neem oil cakes are used as fertilizers. Neem oil cakes contain about 25–30% proteins and 30–40% carbohydrates, which are valuable. Proteins in the neem oil cake could be suitable for food, medical, biotechnology, and other applications. However, there are no reports on the properties or applications of proteins in neem meal. In this study, a simple alkaline process was used to extract proteins from the oil meal and the proteins obtained were converted into films. The films were crosslinked with citric acid (CA) to improve mechanical properties and stability in aqueous conditions. Neem protein films have good resistance to aqueous conditions and acceptable strength and elongation. The films have better antifungal activity than antibacterial activity. Cells (L929) were able to attach and grow on the films but at a lower rate than Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) media. Proteins in neem oil cake show potential as substitutes for the animal‐based proteins in current use. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The management of an oral pyogenic granuloma around osseointegrated dental implants
Authors: Burgess Danielle K. , Levi Paul A. , Kim David M.
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Oral pyogenic granulomas (PGs) presenting in association with dental implants are uncommon occurrences. While tooth‐associated PGs are well‐documented in the literature, there are only seven case reports with biopsy‐confirmed diagnoses of PG related to dental implants. This case report details the treatment of an intraoral PG related to dental implants that had been osseointegrated and asymptomatic for 10 years.

Case Presentation

A 39‐year‐old female presented with a hyperplastic erythematous mass that encompassed the dental implants in the position of the maxillary central incisors. Surgical exploration of the site revealed nonintegrated, particulate bone material distributed throughout the peri‐implant tissues approximating the granuloma. Treatment involved surgical excision of the lesion, elimination of all nonintegrated bone material, and implant surface debridement. Laser therapy was later used to manage a recurrence. Histology of the biopsied tissue confirmed the diagnosis of PG and described the presence of multiple exogenous, refractile, particulate materials in the specimen.

Conclusion

The combination of surgical excision, implant debridement, and conservative laser therapy resulted in the elimination of a dental implant‐related PG and successful soft tissue management. The localized presence of nonintegrated particulate bone material surrounding the granuloma appears to have functioned as a chronic irritant to the peri‐implant soft tissues over time and is likely, along with oral bacteria, the primary etiological agents.

Key points

Why is this case new information?

There is a paucity of reports describing the management of dental implant‐related pyogenic granulomas especially in the esthetic region. The present case demonstrates that particulate bone materials used in guided bone regeneration have the capacity to behave as a low‐grade irritant to the gingival tissues. It also demonstrates the successful elimination of the tissues and management of the peri‐implant soft tissues for an esthetic result.

What are the keys to successful management of this case?

The key to successful management of this case was adequate removal of the exogenous irritant, proper implant surface debridement, and decontamination and adequate gingivoplasty to remove all residual hyperplastic granulomatous tissues. Additionally, patient education and appropriate oral hygiene instructions were important to proper healing and maintenance of the area.

What are the primary limitations to success in this case?

The ambiguity of the clinical boundaries of PGs makes it challenging to guarantee complete excision beyond the base of the lesion, leading to recurrence.
Virtual enhanced education in counselor education: Is this for real?
Authors: Sacco‐Bene Christine , Walsh Michael J. , Dawson Robert D. , Petrino Janet , Boening Emily
Published: August 2022

Most applications of virtual reality and technology used in counseling occur in the context of client intervention and treatment. This article presents how virtual enhanced education tools such as virtual reality, augmented reality, and 360° videos provide a stage for constructing creative opportunities for experiential learning in counselor education.
Bimetallic Ruthenium Nitrosyl Complexes with Enhanced Two‐Photon Absorption Properties for Nitric Oxide Delivery
Authors: Juarez‐Martinez Yael , Labra‐Vázquez Pablo , Enríquez‐Cabrera Alejandro , Leon‐Rojas Andrés F. , Martínez‐Bourget Diego , Lacroix Pascal G. , Tassé Marine , Mallet‐Ladeira Sonia , Farfán Norberto , Santillan Rosa , Ramos‐Ortiz Gabriel , Malval Jean‐Pierre , Malfant Isabelle
Published: August 2022

One monometallic and three bimetallic ruthenium nitrosyl (RuNO) complexes are presented and fully characterized in reference to a parent monometallic complex of formula [FTRu(bpy)(NO)]3+, where FT is a fluorenyl‐substituted terpyridine ligand, and bpy the 2,2’‐bipyridine. These new complexes are built with the new ligands FFT, TFT, TFFT, and TF‐CC‐TF (where an alkyne C≡C group is inserted between two fluorenes). The crystal structures of the bis‐RuNO2 and bis‐RuNO complexes built from the TFT ligand are presented. The evolution of the spectroscopic features (intensities and energies) along the series, at one‐photon absorption (OPA) correlates well with the TD‐DFT computations. A spectacular effect is observed at two‐photon absorption (TPA) with a large enhancement of the molecular cross‐section (σTPA), in the bimetallic species. In the best case, σTPA is equal to 1523±98 GM at 700 nm, in the therapeutic window of transparency of biological tissues. All compounds are capable of releasing NO⋅ under irradiation, which leads to promising applications in TPA‐based drug delivery.
Pyrimidopteridine‐catalyzed Photo‐mediated Hydroacetoxylation
Authors: Petrosyan Andranik , Zach Luisa , Taeufer Tobias , Mayer T. S. , Rabeah Jabor , Pospech Jola
Published: August 2022

Herein we report a photo‐mediated formal addition of carboxylic acids to activated alkenes catalyzed by a pyrimidopteridine photoredox catalyst. The decarboxylation of aliphatic carboxylic acids upon single‐electron oxidation is countered in the presence of electron‐rich alkenes and a hydroacetoxylation is observed. Mechanistic proposals have been made based on CV measurements, competitive Stern‐Volmer quenching and EPR experiments. Evidence that tetra‐N‐substituted pyrimidopteridines function as dual photoredox and hydrogen atom transfer catalyst was supported by spectroscopic means.
Pd‐Catalyzed Aerobic Intermolecular 1,2‐Diamination of Conjugated Dienes: Regio‐ and Chemoselective Synthesis of Piperazines and 2‐Piperazinones
Authors: Liu Huikang , Li Yunyi , Yang Zehua , Ge Qianyi , Wu Zhengxing , Zhang Wanbin
Published: August 2022

Dinitrogen heterocycles are among the most important molecular structures, and the synthesis of these types of structures through intermolecular 1,2‐diamination of olefins is a direct and efficient method. However, the types of nitrogen sources are mostly derived from ureas or arylamines, and nitrogen sources from aliphatic amines are still limited due to their distinct electronic and steric effects. Herein, we report a palladium‐catalyzed aerobic intermolecular 1,2‐diamination of conjugated dienes, using ethanediamine and α‐amino amide derivatives as nitrogen sources respectively, for the synthesis of piperazines and 2‐piperazinones in good yields (up to 95 %) and with high regio‐ and chemoselectivities.
Elastin‐Hyaluronan Bioconjugate as Bioactive Component in Electrospun Scaffolds
Authors: Laezza Antonio , Pepe Antonietta , Bochicchio Brigida
Published: August 2022

Hyaluronic acid or hyaluronan (HA) and elastin‐inspired peptides (EL) have been widely recognized as bioinspired materials useful in biomedical applications. The aim of the present work is the production of electrospun scaffolds as wound dressing materials which would benefit from synergic action of the bioactivity of elastin peptides and the regenerative properties of hyaluronic acid. Taking advantage of thiol‐ene chemistry, a bioactive elastin peptide was successfully conjugated to methacrylated hyaluronic acid (MAHA) and electrospun together with poly‐D,L‐lactide (PDLLA). To the best of our knowledge, limited reports on peptide‐conjugated hyaluronic acid were described in literature, and none of these was employed for the production of electrospun scaffolds. The conformational studies carried out by Circular Dichroism (CD) on the bioconjugated compound confirmed the preservation of secondary structure of the peptide after conjugation while Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed the supramolecular structure of the electrospun scaffolds. Overall, the study demonstrates that the bioconjugation of hyaluronic acid with the elastin peptide improved the electrospinning processability with improved characteristics in terms of morphology of the final scaffolds.
Improved survival in cervical cancer patients receiving care at National Cancer Institute–designated cancer centers
Authors: McDaniels‐Davidson Corinne , Feng Christine H. , Martinez Maria Elena , Canchola Alison J. , Gomez Scarlett Lin , Nodora Jesse N. , Patel Sandip P. , Mundt Arno J. , Mayadev Jyoti S.
Published: August 2022

Background

Locally advanced cervical cancer (CC) remains lethal in the United States. We investigate the effect of receiving care at an National Cancer Institute–designated cancer center (NCICC) on survival.

Methods

Data for women diagnosed with CC from 2004 to 2016 who received radiation treatment were extracted from the California Cancer Registry (n = 4250). Cox proportional hazards regression models assessed whether (1) receiving care at NCICCs was associated with risk of CC‐specific death, (2) this association remained after multivariable adjustment for age, race/ethnicity, and insurance status, and (3) this association was explained by receipt of guideline‐concordant treatment.

Results

Median age was 50 years (interquartile range [IQR] 41–61 years), with median follow‐up of 2.7 years (IQR 1.3–6.0 years). One‐third of patients were seen at an NCICC, and 29% died of CC. The hazard of CC‐specific death was reduced by 20% for those receiving care at NCICCs compared with patients receiving care elsewhere (HR = .80; 95% CI, 0.70–0.90). Adjustment for guideline‐concordant treatment and other covariates minimally attenuated the association to 0.83 (95% CI, 0.74–0.95), suggesting that the survival advantage associated with care at NCICCs may not be due to receipt of guideline‐concordant treatment.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates survival benefit for patients receiving care at NCICCs compared with those receiving care elsewhere that is not explained by differences in guideline‐concordant care. Structural, organizational, or provider characteristics and differences in patients receiving care at centers with and without NCI designation could explain observed associations. Further understanding of these factors will promote equality across oncology care facilities and survival equity for patients with CC.
DELLAs directed gibberellins responses orchestrate crop development: A brief review
Authors: Sarwar Rehman , Zhu Ke‐Ming , Jiang Ting , Ding Peng , Gao Yue , Tan Xiao‐Li
Published: August 2022

Gibberellins (GAs) are a pervasive group of diterpene phytohormones. They can dominate various aspects of plant development and modulate plant phenotypic plasticity by crosstalking with multiple phytohormones. Studies on GA signaling illustrate that master negative regulator DELLA proteins regulate GAs and nearly all phytohormones’ growth responses to sustain plant growth and defense under relentless biotic and abiotic stresses. The molecular mechanism of DELLA proteins in regulating GA‐sensitive growth in an integrated manner with multiple phytohormones became apparent recently. These studies describe the interaction of interaction DELLA proteins with a diverse group of transcriptional regulators and factors as well as nontranscriptional proteins in directing GA‐stimulated plant growth. In this review, we address the extensive recent work to delineate DELLA proteins and their interacting partners and summarize the latest evidence that DELLA proteins have a unique function in suppressing the GA‐related responses to sustain the tension among growth and defense.
Selective Oxidation of Glycerol into Formic Acid by Photogenerated Holes and Superoxide Radicals
Authors: Liu Meijiang , Liu Huifang , Li Ning , Zhang Chaofeng , Zhang Jian , Wang Feng
Published: August 2022

Photocatalysis is a promising technology for conversion of the glycerol into formic acid, but photocatalytic oxidation of C−C bonds in glycerol exhibits poor selectivity towards formic acid because the photogenerated radicals (e.g., hydroxyl radicals) further oxidize formic acid to CO2. In this work, a synergy of photogenerated holes and superoxide radicals that achieved the selective oxidation of glycerol into formic acid over the TiO2 catalyst was revealed. The charge separation of pristine TiO2 was improved with the aid of oxygen, which resulted in efficient hole oxidation of the C−C bonds in glycerol to formic acid. Surface active species were controlled to prevent being converted to hydroxyl radicals on TiO2 by controlling the oxygen and water contents, which solved the problem of formic acid peroxidation without sophisticated catalyst modifications. Mechanism studies suggested that glyceraldehyde and glycolaldehyde were the intermediates to generate formic acid. This work provides a green and efficient approach to produce formic acid as a liquid hydrogen carrier from bio‐based alcohols.
Highly Stable Iron‐ and Carbon‐Based Electrodes for Li‐Ion Batteries: Negative Fading and Fast Charging within 12 Min
Authors: Choi Wonyoung , Ha Jaeyun , Kim Yong‐Tae , Choi Jinsub
Published: August 2022

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with high energy density and safety under fast‐charging conditions are highly desirable for electric vehicles. However, owing to the growth of Li dendrites, increased temperature at high charging rates, and low specific capacity in commercially available anodes, they cannot meet the market demand. In this study, a facile one‐pot electrochemical self‐assembly approach has been developed for constructing hybrid electrodes composed of ultrafine Fe3O4 particles on reduced graphene oxide (Fe3O4@rGO) as anodes for LIBs. The rationally designed Fe3O4@rGO electrode containing 36 wt % rGO exhibits an increase in specific capacity as cycling progresses, owing to improvements in the active sites, electrochemical kinetics, and catalytic behavior, leading to a high specific capacity of 833 mAh g−1 and outstanding cycling stability over 2000 cycles with a capacity loss of only 0.127 % per cycle at 5 A g−1, enabling the full charging of batteries within 12 min. Furthermore, the origin of this abnormal improvement in the specific capacity (called negative fading), which exceeds the theoretical capacity, is investigated. This study opens up new possibilities for the commercial feasibility of Fe3O4@rGO anodes in fast‐charging LIBs.