bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Graphene‐Based Nanocomposites as Antibacterial, Antiviral and Antifungal Agents
Authors: Gungordu Er Seda , Edirisinghe Mohan , Tabish Tanveer A.
Published: December 2022

Over the past decade, there have been many interesting studies in the scientific literature about the interaction of graphene‐based polymeric nanocomposites with microorganisms to tackle antimicrobial resistance. These studies have reported variable intensities of biocompatibility and selectivity for the nanocomposites toward a specific strain, but it is widely believed that graphene nanocomposites have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activities. Such antibacterial activity is due to several mechanisms by which graphene nanocomposites can act on cells including stimulating oxidative stress; disrupting membranes due to sharp edges; greatly changing core structure mechanical strength and coarseness. However, the underlying mechanisms of graphene nanocomposites as antiviral and antifungal agents remain relatively scarce. In this review, recent advances in the synthesis, functional tailoring, and antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal applications of graphene nanocomposites are summarized. The synthesis of graphene materials and graphene‐based polymeric nanocomposites with techniques such as pressurized gyration, electrospinning, chemical vapor deposition, and layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly is first introduced. Then, the antimicrobial mechanisms of graphene membranes are presented and demonstrated typical in vitro and in vivo studies on the use of graphene nanocomposites for antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal applications. Finally, the review describes the biosafety, current limitations, and potential of antimicrobial graphene‐based nanocomposites.
Fully Printed Temperature Sensor Array Comprising 625 60×60 µm2 pixels
Authors: Huber Robert , Eizaguirre Santiago , Mescher Henning , Willig Christian , Zhang Qiaoshuang , Lemmer Uli
Published: December 2022

With further digitalization and automation, new applications fields require new solutions and sensors. Healthcare, soft robotics, and battery research are only three examples striving for sensor solutions capable of measuring the spatial and temporal temperature distribution of surfaces. This requires the deposition of multiple sensor pixels with a high spatial resolution on potentially flexible substrates. Printing technologies are well suited to fulfill the associated requirements of quality, speed, feature size, and costs. Combining screen printing and aerosol jet printing allows for fast large‐scale processing and when needed high‐precision fabrication for small features. The presented high‐density temperature sensor array provides 625 sensor pixels with a size of 60×60 µm2, evenly distributed over an area of 12×12 mm2. The sensor is operated without encapsulation between 5 and 90 °C showing an average deviation of less than 0.5 °C. The sensor stack consists of a bottom and top electrode sandwiching a carbon black based thermistor layer. The material shows a strong negative‐temperature‐coefficient (NTC) effect with a sensitivity of 3.6 % °C−1 at 5 °C. As an application example, the temperature profile induced by a laser beam is mapped with the temperature sensor array.
Magnetic‐Dielectric Complementary Fe‐Co‐Ni Alloy/Carbon Composites for High‐Attenuation C‐Band Microwave Absorption via Carbothermal Reduction of Solid‐Solution Precursor
Authors: Su Zhe , Yi Shan , Zhang Wanyu , Tian Liying , Zhang Yayun , Zhou Shenghu , Niu Bo , Long Donghui
Published: December 2022

Ferromagnetic alloys/carbon composites with excellent electrical and magnetic properties are highly desirable as electromagnetic wave absorption materials, but achieving high‐attenuation performance in C‐band (4–8 GHz) remains a challenge. Herein, a direct carbothermal reduction of organic gluconate solid‐solution precursor method is developed to synthesize ferromagnetic Fe‐Co‐Ni alloy/carbon composites, which realize high‐attenuation electromagnetic wave absorption in C‐band. By virtue of Fe, Co, and Ni elements homogeneously dispersing at the molecular level in the solid‐solution precursor with the regulated mole ratio, serial FeCo2Ni/C, Co7Fe3/C, FeNi3/C, and Co3Ni/C composites can be deliberately prepared. First‐principles calculations and off‐axis electron holograms can clearly unravel that these Fe‐Co‐Ni alloys could perform as excellent dielectric‐magnetic complementary loss units to trigger synergistic electronic dipole polarization oscillation, magnetic moment resonance, and magnetic coupling interaction. Meanwhile, the rich alloy–carbon interfaces and conductive carbon skeleton can facilitate delightful interfacial polarization and conductive loss. Combining these positive electromagnetic energy dissipation characteristics, FeCo2Ni/C with strengthened dipole polarization oscillation and outstanding impedance matching realizes an extremely high‐attenuation absorption performance with a minimum reflection loss of −82.2 dB at 5.21 GHz. This work provides a feasible and flexible insight into producing magnetic‐dielectric complementary Fe‐Co‐Ni alloys/carbon composites with various alloy compositions as excellent electromagnetic wave absorbers.
Environmental decision support system for Plane trees failure prediction: A comparison of multi‐layer perceptron and random forest modeling approaches
Authors: Jahani Ali , Saffariha Maryam
Published: December 2022

Tree risk is the likelihood of property damage or personal injury from a potentially hazardous tree in cities. We aimed to compare multilayer perceptron (MLP) and random forest (RF) model techniques to predict Plane trees failure hazard in urban areas. In this research, 500 Plane trees in different urban structures were selected, and 12 variables were measured for target trees prediction as model independent variables. Tree failure hazard (tree fails along next 3 yr) was modeled by two machine learning techniques: MLP and RF. The RF model represents the higher accuracy in training (100%), test (94.4%), and all data sets (98.4%). The results of variable importance calculation of designed RF model revealed that wind‐protected aspects, soil depth, length of cracks and cavities, and internal decay are the most important variables respectively that influence the classes of Plane tree failure. The urban foresters or designers can easily determine the possibility of Plane trees risk by running the designed graphical user interface and entering 12 variables of Plane tree. As a result, it will help foresters and urban area managers to make better decisions and predict the proper time to decrease harm from Plane tree failure.
Identification of potential neuroprotective compound from Ganoderma lucidum extract targeting microtubule affinity regulation kinase 4 involved in Alzheimer's disease through molecular dynamics simulation and MMGBSA
Authors: Ahmad Faizan , Singh Gagandeep , Soni Hemant , Tandon Smriti
Published: December 2022

Objective

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurological ailments, affecting around 50 million individuals globally. The condition is characterized by nerve cell damage due to the formation of amyloid‐beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Only a few US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved medications are available in the market which are devoid of side effects, thus, making it imperative to investigate new alternatives for countering this disease. According to a recent study, microtubule affinity regulation kinase 4 (MARK4) is attributed as one of the most promising drug targets for AD, thus, being selected for this study. Compounds from Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi mushroom) extracts were selected to be used as ligands for this study.

Methods

In this study, the five most potent compounds from Ganoderma lucidum were selected and their absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET) analysis was performed, followed by molecular docking, and molecular dynamics simulation of each compound with MARK4 and supported by molecular mechanics generalized born surface area (MMGBSA) binding free energy calculations.

Results

The promising compounds were selected based on their ADMET profile and interactions with the active site residues of MARK4. Based on docking scores of −9.1 and −10.3 kcal/ mol, respectively, stability assessment by molecular dynamics simulation, and MMGBSA calculations, ganoderic acid A and ganoderenic acid B were found to be the most promising compounds against MARK4 which will require further in vitro and in vivo validations.

Conclusion

Through this study, it is suggested that ganoderic acid A and ganoderenic acid B might be a class of promising compounds against AD, based on computational research, and can be further studied for preclinical and clinical studies.
Active sites modulation with Runge–Gross theorem: CO2 capture by porphyrinic metal–organic frameworks at excited states
Authors: Qi Shi‐Chao , Yu Yan‐Fei , Yang Zhi‐Hui , Liu Xiao‐Ying , Lu Xiao‐Jie , Liu Xiao‐Qin , Sun Lin‐Bing
Published: December 2022

Traditionally chemical modifications altering molecular skeletons (MSs) were the only solution to modulate material active sites at ground states. According to Runge–Gross theorem, the MS and the adjoint electron‐configuration (MS‐AEC) can be tuned at excited states (ESs), even without chemical modifications. A porphyrinic metal–organic framework PCN‐222 and its metalloporphyrin homologs are used for adsorptive carbon capture both at ground states and with photoexcitation (350–780 nm). Instead of passive photothermal effects, the carbon capture performances of all the adsorbents get promotions. The dominant first ESs with long lifetimes meet the time‐scale of molecular adsorption equilibrium, meanwhile tune the MS‐AEC of the porphyrin ligands to generate new active sites with much more negative electrostatic‐potentials, of which the distribution gradient is crucial for inducing CO2 and can be further modulated by the central‐coordinated metal cations at ground and excited states. This work demonstrates the availability of static ESs and possibility of nonchemical modifications.
Fatal gastrointestinal complications in Pitt‐Hopkins syndrome
Authors: Koppen Ilan J. N. , Menke Leonie A. , Westra Wytske M. , Struik Femke , Mesman Simone , van Wijk Michiel P. , Huisman Sylvia A.
Published: December 2022

Pitt‐Hopkins syndrome (PTHS) is a rare neurodevelopmental disorder caused by mutations of the transcription factor 4 (Tcf4) gene. Individuals with PTHS often suffer from severe abdominal bloating and constipation. In this short communication, we discuss two individuals with PTHS who died unexpectedly due to gastrointestinal complications. We aim to increase awareness among healthcare professionals who care for individuals with PTHS, to ensure adequate screening and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in this population. Moreover, we discuss how fatal gastrointestinal complications may be related to PTHS and provide an overview of the literature.
Alzheimer's Disease Genetic Risk, Cognition, and Brain Aging in Midlife
Authors: Brenowitz Willa D. , Fornage Myriam , Launer Lenore J. , Habes Mohamad , Davatzikos Christos , Yaffe Kristine
Published: December 2022

We examined associations of an Alzheimer's disease (AD) Genetic Risk Score (AD‐GRS) and midlife cognitive and neuroimaging outcomes in 1,252 middle‐aged participants (311 with brain MRI). A higher AD‐GRS based on 25 previously identified loci (excluding apolipoprotein E [APOE]) was associated with worse Montreal Cognitive Assessment (−0.14 standard deviation [SD] [95% confidence interval {CI}: ‐0.26, −0.02]), older machine learning predicted brain age (2.35 years[95%CI: 0.01, 4.69]), and white matter hyperintensity volume (0.35 SD [95% CI: 0.00, 0.71]), but not with a composite cognitive outcome, total brain, or hippocampal volume. APOE ε4 allele was not associated with any outcomes. AD risk genes beyond APOE may contribute to subclinical differences in cognition and brain health in midlife. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:629–634
Longitudinal Effects of Asymptomatic C9orf72 Carriership on Brain Morphology
Authors: van Veenhuijzen Kevin , Westeneng Henk‐Jan , Tan Harold H. G. , Nitert Abram D. , van der Burgh Hannelore K. , Gosselt Isabel , van Es Michael A. , Nijboer Tanja C. W. , Veldink Jan H. , van den Berg Leonard H.
Published: December 2022

Objective

We investigated effects of C9orf72 repeat expansion and gene expression on longitudinal cerebral changes before symptom onset.

Methods

We enrolled 79 asymptomatic family members (AFMs) from 9 families with C9orf72 repeat expansion. Twenty‐eight AFMs carried the mutation (C9+). Participants had up to 3 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, after which we compared motor cortex and motor tracts between C9+ and C9− AFMs using mixed effects models, incorporating kinship to correct for familial relations and lessen effects of other genetic factors. We also compared cortical, subcortical, cerebellar, and connectome structural measurements in a hypothesis‐free analysis. We correlated regional C9orf72 expression in donor brains with the pattern of cortical thinning in C9+ AFMs using meta‐regression. For comparison, we included 42 C9+ and 439 C9− patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in this analysis.

Results

C9+ AFM motor cortex had less gyrification and was thinner than in C9− AFMs, without differences in motor tracts. Whole brain analysis revealed thinner cortex and less gyrification in parietal, occipital, and temporal regions, smaller thalami and right hippocampus, and affected frontotemporal connections. Thinning of bilateral precentral, precuneus, and left superior parietal cortex was faster in C9+ than in C9− AFMs. Higher C9orf72 expression correlated with thinner cortex in both C9+ AFMs and C9+ ALS patients.

Interpretation

In asymptomatic C9orf72 repeat expansion carriers, brain MRI reveals widespread features suggestive of impaired neurodevelopment, along with faster decline of motor and parietal cortex than found in normal aging. C9orf72 expression might play a role in cortical development, and consequently explain the specific brain abnormalities of mutation carriers. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:668–680
Clinically Meaningful Magnetic Resonance Endpoints Sensitive to Preataxic Spinocerebellar Ataxia Types 1 and 3
Authors: Chandrasekaran Jayashree , Petit Emilien , Park Young Woo , du Montcel Sophie Tezenas , Joers James M. , Deelchand Dinesh K. , Považan Michal , Banan Guita , Valabregue Romain , Ehses Philipp , Faber Jennifer , Coupé Pierrick , Onyike Chiadi U. , Barker Peter B. , Schmahmann Jeremy D. , Ratai Eva‐Maria , Subramony S. H. , Mareci Thomas H. , Bushara Khalaf O. , Paulson Henry , Durr Alexandra , Klockgether Thomas , Ashizawa Tetsuo , Lenglet Christophe , Öz Gülin ,   for the READISCA Consortium
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study was undertaken to identify magnetic resonance (MR) metrics that are most sensitive to early changes in the brain in spinocerebellar ataxia type 1 (SCA1) and type 3 (SCA3) using an advanced multimodal MR imaging (MRI) protocol in the multisite trial setting.

Methods

SCA1 or SCA3 mutation carriers and controls (n = 107) underwent MR scanning in the US‐European READISCA study to obtain structural, diffusion MRI, and MR spectroscopy data using an advanced protocol at 3T. Morphometric, microstructural, and neurochemical metrics were analyzed blinded to diagnosis and compared between preataxic SCA (n = 11 SCA1, n = 28 SCA3), ataxic SCA (n = 14 SCA1, n = 37 SCA3), and control (n = 17) groups using nonparametric testing accounting for multiple comparisons. MR metrics that were most sensitive to preataxic abnormalities were identified using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses.

Results

Atrophy and microstructural damage in the brainstem and cerebellar peduncles and neurochemical abnormalities in the pons were prominent in both preataxic groups, when patients did not differ from controls clinically. MR metrics were strongly associated with ataxia symptoms, activities of daily living, and estimated ataxia duration. A neurochemical measure was the most sensitive metric to preataxic changes in SCA1 (ROC area under the curve [AUC] = 0.95), and a microstructural metric was the most sensitive metric to preataxic changes in SCA3 (AUC = 0.92).

Interpretation

Changes in cerebellar afferent and efferent pathways underlie the earliest symptoms of both SCAs. MR metrics collected with a harmonized advanced protocol in the multisite trial setting allow detection of disease effects in individuals before ataxia onset with potential clinical trial utility for subject stratification. ANN NEUROL 2023;93:686–701
Olefin‐Dihydroxylierung mit Nitroarenen als Photosensibilisatoren
Authors: Hampton Charlotte , Simonetti Marco , Leonori Daniele
Published: December 2022

Vicinale Diole sind in vielen natürlichen und synthetischen Molekülen zu finden, und ebenso wertvolle Zwischenprodukte in der organischen Synthese. Die Dihydroxylierung eines Alkens ist eine effektive Strategie um Zugang zu diesen Derivaten zu verschaffen, da es ein breites Angebot von ungesättigten Rohstoffen gibt. Osmiumtetroxid ist eines der am häufigsten verwendeten Reagenzien für diese Transformation, doch die hohe Toxizität und hohen Kosten sind nach wie vor problematisch und limitieren die verbreitete Annahme dieser Methode für die Herstellung vicinaler Diole. In dieser Publikation stellen wir eine mechanistisch einzigartige Strategie für Dihydroxylierung von Olefinen vor, welche durch die Verwendung von Nitroaromaten als Photosensibilisatoren ermöglicht wird. Durch violetter LED‐Bestrahlung der Reaktionsmischung geschieht eine [3+2]‐Photocycloaddition zwischen Alken und Nitroaromat, die zu einem stabilen 1,3,2‐Dioxazolidinintermediat führt. Diese Intermediate können anschließend zu den gewünschten Diolen reduziert werden. Verwendet werden einfach zu handhabende Reagenzien welche als Wasserstoffsurrogat dienen.
Facile and green fabrication of copper‐based magnetically recoverable yolk–shell nanocatalysts with high catalytic performance for nitroaromatic reduction
Authors: Maleki Mohammad Hassan , Dinari Mohammad , Arameshian Saed
Published: December 2022

A simple method was reported to achieve a green yolk–shell Fe3O4@SiO2@CuO nanocatalysts (YS‐Fe3O4@SiO2@CuO). Glucose (G) and lactose (L), as a grafting agent, were applied for decorating CuO on the magnetic nanoparticles surface and then using calcination method, yolk–shell structure was obtained. Characterization of nanocatalysts was carried out using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry (ICP‐OES), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX)‐Mapping, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) analyses and the results confirmed the successful synthesis of these catalysis. The activity of the nanocatalysts were studied to reduce nitroaromatic compounds monitoring by UV–Vis spectra. In the model reaction, 4‐nitrophenol was reduced using YS‐Fe3O4@SiO2@CuO(G) and YS‐Fe3O4@SiO2@CuO(L), with the activity factors (k′) of 3218 and 2023 s−1 g−1, and rate constants (Kapp) of 0.56 and 1.19 min−1, respectively. The advantages of prepared nanocatalysts were good stability and high conversion. The magnetic property of nanocatalysts makes them easy to recover in multiple cycles.
Strong and high void fraction PP/CNS nanocomposite foams fabricated by core‐back foam injection molding
Authors: Wang Long , Wu Minghui , Ren Qian , Weng Zhengsheng , Li Wanwan , Zhu Xiuyu , Zheng Wenge , Yi Xiaosu
Published: December 2022

Polypropylene/carbon nanostructure (PP/CNS) nanocomposite foams with a void fraction as high as 78% were successfully prepared by foam injection molding (FIM) with core‐back operation. Rheological curves and differential scanning calorimetry results showed that the added CNS significantly improved the melt strength and accelerated the crystallization process of PP, respectively. A high mold temperature was applied to overcome the adverse effect of CNS, which had a high thermal conductivity and went against the preparation of high void fraction (VF) products. Thus, adding CNS could dramatically increase cell density by three orders of magnitude. With a CNS loading of 5 wt%, the PP/CNS nanocomposite foam with a cell size of about 60 μm, cell density over 107 cells/cm3, and a void fraction of 78% was obtained. More interestingly, the specific flexural modulus of the PP/CNS composite foam with 50% void‐fraction was increased by 37% relative to the neat solid injection‐molded PP. PP/CNS composite foams with adjustable cell structure and good mechanical properties show great potential for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding and sensors applications.
An immunometabolic patch facilitates mesenchymal stromal/stem cell therapy for myocardial infarction through a macrophage‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Xiao Weizhang , Chen Ming , Zhou Wenjing , Ding Liang , Yang Ziying , Shao Lianbo , Li Jingjing , Chen Weiqian , Shen Zhenya
Published: December 2022

Mesenchymal stromal/stem cells (MSCs) have emerged as a promising approach against myocardial infarction. Due to hostile hyperinflammation, however, poor retention of transplanted cells seriously impedes their clinical applications. Proinflammatory M1 macrophages, which rely on glycolysis as their main energy source, aggravate hyperinflammatory response and cardiac injury in ischemic region. Here, we showed that the administration of an inhibitor of glycolysis, 2‐deoxy‐d‐glucose (2‐DG), blocked the hyperinflammatory response within the ischemic myocardium and subsequently extended effective retention of transplanted MSCs. Mechanistically, 2‐DG blocked the proinflammatory polarization of macrophages and suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines. Selective macrophage depletion abrogated this curative effect. Finally, to avoid potential organ toxicity caused by systemic inhibition of glycolysis, we developed a novel chitosan/gelatin‐based 2‐DG patch that directly adhered to the infarcted region and facilitated MSC‐mediated cardiac healing with undetectable side effects. This study pioneered the application of an immunometabolic patch in MSC‐based therapy and provided insights into the therapeutic mechanism and advantages of this innovative biomaterial.
Real‐time online monitoring of insect cell proliferation and baculovirus infection using digital differential holographic microscopy and machine learning
Authors: Altenburg Jort J. , Klaverdijk Maarten , Cabosart Damien , Desmecht Laurent , Brunekreeft‐Terlouw Sonja S. , Both Joshua , Tegelbeckers Vivian I. P. , Willekens Marieke L. P. M. , van Oosten Linda , Hick Tessy A. H. , van der Aalst Tom M. H. , Pijlman Gorben P. , van Oers Monique M. , Wijffels René H. , Martens Dirk E.
Published: December 2022

Real‐time, detailed online information on cell cultures is essential for understanding modern biopharmaceutical production processes. The determination of key parameters, such as cell density and viability, is usually based on the offline sampling of bioreactors. Gathering offline samples is invasive, has a low time resolution, and risks altering or contaminating the production process. In contrast, measuring process parameters online provides more safety for the process, has a high time resolution, and thus can aid in timely process control actions. We used online double differential digital holographic microscopy (D3HM) and machine learning to perform non‐invasive online cell concentration and viability monitoring of insect cell cultures in bioreactors. The performance of D3HM and the machine learning model was tested for a selected variety of baculovirus constructs, products, and multiplicities of infection (MOI). The results show that with online holographic microscopy insect cell proliferation and baculovirus infection can be monitored effectively in real time with high resolution for a broad range of process parameters and baculovirus constructs. The high‐resolution data generated by D3HM showed the exact moment of peak cell densities and temporary events caused by feeding. Furthermore, D3HM allowed us to obtain information on the state of the cell culture at the individual cell level. Combining this detailed, real‐time information about cell cultures with methodical machine learning models can increase process understanding, aid in decision‐making, and allow for timely process control actions during bioreactor production of recombinant proteins.
Efficacy and safety of endoscopic “calabash” ligation and resection for small gastric stromal tumors originating from the muscularis propria
Authors: Peng Min‐Si , Zeng Hao‐Tian , Zhang Zhu‐Liang , Chen Ze‐Ming , Long Ting , Wang Li‐Sheng , Xu Zheng‐Lei
Published: December 2022

Aim

We compared endoscopic “calabash” ligation and resection (ECLR) and endoscopic submucosal excision (ESE) in treating endophytic gastric stromal tumors (GSTs) ≤15 mm in diameter originating from the muscularis propria.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study and included patients who visited our hospital for removal of small endophytic GSTs (diameter ≤ 15 mm) confirmed by postoperative pathological reports between February 2019 and December 2020. Patients were assigned to the study (received ECLR) or control (accepted ESE) groups, and their medical records were reviewed. Age, sex, GST size, resection outcomes, procedure measurements, lengths of hospital stays, medical expenses, intraoperative and postoperative complications, and follow‐up outcomes were documented and compared between the two groups. Propensity score matching was used to avoid retrospective biases.

Results

A total of 277 patients were included in the analysis, with 135 in the study group and 142 in the control group. After propensity score matching, 119 cases in each group were finally included in the study. Compared to the control group, the study group had significantly shorter procedure durations and lengths of hospital stays, as well as reduced medical expenses. Compared to the control group, the study group also had significantly lower incidence rates of intraoperative stomach perforation, postoperative intraperitoneal infection, and postoperative electrocoagulation syndrome, as well as a lower intensity of postoperative pain. There were no significant differences in the other measurements between the two groups.

Conclusion

ECLR is an effective and safe procedure for treating patients with endophytic GSTs ≤15 mm in diameter originating from the muscularis propria.
An interview study exploring clients' experiences of receiving therapeutic support for family estrangement in the UK
Authors: Blake Lucy , Rouncefield‐Swales Alison , Bland Becca , Carter Bernie
Published: December 2022

Many people experience estrangement from a family member, which is broadly understood to refer to negative relationships that are characterised by little or no contact. However, little is known about how people cope with family estrangement. To address this gap, interviews were conducted with 46 participants who identified as being estranged from a parent/sibling and/or child and having sought therapeutic support for this experience. The participants were recruited from a UK‐based charity that supports individuals experiencing family estrangement. The participants had a range of experiences of therapeutic support, with most (N = 31, 67%) having paid for private therapy. The data were analysed using thematic analysis, and three themes were generated: (1) finding the missing qualities in estranged family relationships: warmth, validation and safety; (2) speaking the unspoken: addressing the causes and consequences of estrangement; and (3) learning relational skills: improving the relationship with oneself and with others. When the causes of estrangement were addressed in the context of a safe therapeutic relationship, participants learned strategies to improve the relationships they had both with themselves and with others. When participants experienced a cold or unresponsive therapeutic relationship, and the causes and consequences of estrangement were not adequately addressed or understood, counselling was experienced as unhelpful. Individuals who seek therapeutic support for family estrangement have specific needs. Training around these needs and the causes and consequences of estrangement could be beneficial to helping professionals and the clients with whom they work.
Hydroalcoholic Extract of Rabbiteye Blueberry (Vaccinium ashei) Leaves Mitigates Unpredictable Chronic Mild Stress Model Inducing Depressive‐Like Behavior in Rats
Authors: Schneider Cezarotto Verciane , Mota Ferreira Luana , Pizzi Dal'Pupo Rafaela , dos Santos Adriel , Freitas Santos Karen , Blanco Linares Carlos Eduardo , Stein Ana Cristina , Marcondes Sari Marcel Henrique , Cruz Letícia
Published: December 2022

Several studies reported that rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade) leaves present promising biological properties. To the best of our knowledge, no study investigated the possible application of their hydroalcoholic extract for treating mood disorders. Herein, we evaluated if the hydroalcoholic extract of rabbiteye blueberry (Vaccinium ashei Reade) leaves (HEV) promotes an antidepressant‐like effect in rodents using chronic experimental approaches. The effect of repeated administration of HEV (50 mg/kg, p.o.) on the immobility time was assessed in the forced swimming test (FST) in an unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) model. Repeated treatment with HEV reversed the depressive‐like behavior induced by UCMS by reducing the immobility time. Besides, the exposure to HEV caused no changes in relative organ weights in rats submitted to UCMS. The results indicated that HEV administration presented antidepressant‐like action devoid of toxic effects. Thus, it is possible to suggest its potential as a safe and accessible therapeutic tool in the management of depression and other related mood disorders.
Tropolone‐Conjugated DNA: A Fluorescent Thymidine Analogue Exhibits Solvatochromism, Enzymatic Incorporation into DNA and HeLa Cell Internalization
Authors: Meher Sagarika , Gade Chandrasekhar Reddy , Sharma Nagendra K.
Published: December 2022

Tropolone is a non‐benzenoid aromatic scaffold with unique photophysical and metal‐chelating properties. Recently, it has been conjugated with DNA, and the photophysical properties of this conjugate have been explored. Tropolonyl‐deoxyuridine (tr‐dU) is a synthetic fluorescent DNA nucleoside analogue that exhibits pH‐dependent emissions. However, its solvent‐dependent fluorescence properties are unexplored owing to its poor solubility in most organic solvents. It would be interesting to incorporate it into DNA primer enzymatically. This report describes the solvent‐dependent fluorescence properties of the silyl‐derivative, and enzymatic incorporation of its triphosphate analogue. For practical use, its cell‐internalization and cytotoxicity are also explored. tr‐dU nucleoside was found to be a potential analogue to design DNA probes and can be explored for various therapeutic applications in the future.
Lactate: a pearl dropped in the ocean—an overlooked signal molecule in physiology and pathology
Authors: Wu Yue , Ma Wanqi , Liu Wei , Zhang Shuping
Published: December 2022

Lactate, once recognized as a wasty product from anaerobic glycolysis, is proved to be a pivotal signal molecule. Lactate accumulation occurs in diverse physiological and pathological settings due to the imbalance between lactate production and clearance. Under the condition with drastic changes in local microenvironment, such as tumorigenesis, inflammation, and microbial infection, the glycolysis turns to be active in surrounding cells leading to increased lactate release. Meanwhile, lactate can be utilized by these cells as an energy substrate and acts as a signal molecule to regulate cell functions through receptor‐dependent or independent pathways. In this review, we tended to tease out the contribution of lactate in tumor progression and immunomodulation. And we also discussed the accessory role of lactate, beyond as the energy source only, in the growth of invading pathogens.
“Reverse Spider View” for left stem coronary artery angiographic evaluation
Authors: Rigatelli Gianluca , Gianese Filippo , Zuin Marco , Rodino’ Giulio , Marchese Giuseppe , Pasquetto Giampaolo
Published: December 2022

Among the angiographic views used to evaluate left coronary system, the so‐called “spider view” represents one of the most iconic, in particular for its ability to evaluate the Left Main stem (LM) and/or to guide percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs) on LM bifurcation disease. Unfortunately, the use of such view is graved by a high X‐ray exposure for both the operator and the patient. To overcome these limitations, we described an alternative coronary angiographic view, called “reverse spider” which is able to give more information about LM body and bifurcation disease with less X‐ray exposure for the operator.
Prolonged response on olaparib maintenance in metastatic pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma associated with a germline BRCA 2 mutation, revealed by severe panniculitis
Authors: Lelong Margaux , Raoul Jean‐Luc , Touchefeu Yann , Berthelot Jean‐Marie , Arnolfo Paul , Matysiak‐Budnik Tamara , Senellart Hélène
Published: December 2022

This 38‐year‐old man has a familial BRCA2 mutation. He presented with skin erythema, polyarthritis, dactylitis, and febrile erythema nodosum; a biopsy of a liver metastase revealed acinar cell carcinoma of the pancreas. After FOLFIRINOX, olaparib was initiated, and 24 months after, the patient was PS 0 and asymptomatic.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis secondary to Rickettsial infection: A case report
Authors: Sharma Shriya , Adhikari Aakriti , Ghimire Nirmal , Mainali Gaurab , Yadav Sumit Kumar , Pudasaini Prasamsa , Neupane Shashank
Published: December 2022

Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare life‐threatening condition characterized by widespread activation of the immune system leading to tissue damage all over the body. It is divided into primary HLH due to inborn error in lymphocytes, T cells, and macrophages and secondary HLH which is mostly due to infections, systemic connective tissue diseases, and lymphoid malignancies. Here, we report a 34‐year‐old man with a history of high‐grade fever, chills, and rigor, eschar, splenomegaly with the laboratory findings of thrombocytopenia, hypochromic RBCs with anisocytosis and basophilic stippling, elevated transaminases, and a positive Weil Felix test along with positive PCR results for Orientia tsutsugamushi and the presence of IgG and IgM antibodies. A detailed workup was done to rule out other etiology for fever. Diagnosis of HLH secondary to Rickettsia infection was made with a thorough history, clinical evaluation, and a variety of investigations. The patient was treated with Doxycycline, Ciprofloxacin, Etoposide, and Dexamethasone but unfortunately, the patient died during treatment due to multiorgan failure. Patients with scrub typhus typically respond well to therapy; therefore, early detection and antibiotic treatment can help avoid serious complications. Scrub typhus with the hemophagocytic syndrome can result in DIC and multiorgan failure. Despite its rarity, scrub typhus may be lethal; as a result, practitioners must be aware of the necessity of detecting and treating suspected cases as soon as possible. We learned that a systematic diagnostic approach, use of diagnostic criteria, and prompt treatment are very crucial in this disease.
Development of Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis and the Associated Challenges: A Review
Authors: Hua Daxing , Huang Jinzhen , Fabbri Emiliana , Rafique Moniba , Song Bo
Published: December 2022

Water electrolysis technologies for hydrogen production from renewable energy play an important role in a carbon‐free energy scenario. Anion exchange membrane water electrolysis (AEMWE) is one of the most cost‐effective and promising water electrolysis technologies due to the application of efficient, non‐noble metal electrocatalysts and the fast development of anion exchange membranes (AEMs). In this review, the most recent and significant achievements in AEMWE were summarized, including the progress in enhancing AEM conductivity and understanding their degradation mechanism, and the hot topics concerning the electrocatalyst design. The key factors that affect AEMWE performance were pointed out, further challenges and opportunities have also been discussed. The expectations for future development of AEMWE devices were also addressed. Finally, this review provided valuable guidelines for developing highly active and durable electrocatalysts and advancing the fabrication of AEMWE devices.
A Water‐Free ITIES: Ionic Liquid/Oil Interface for Base Metal Nanostructure Formation – Zn Case
Authors: Nishi Naoya , Kuroyama Yohei , Yoshida Naohiro , Yokoyama Yuko , Sakka Tetsuo
Published: December 2022

Reductive metal deposition at the interface between two immiscible electrolyte solutions (ITIES), the oil/water interface, is an attractive methodology to produce metal nanostructures. However, the metals that can be deposited are limited to noble metals; otherwise, water molecules are reduced. Herein, a method to overcome this limitation by utilizing a novel water‐free ITIES between a hydrophilic ionic liquid and oil was introduced. As proof‐of‐concept experiments, the reductive deposition of zinc, a base metal with a standard redox potential more negative than that of water, was successfully realized at the ionic liquid/oil interface. The morphology of the zinc nanostructures was investigated, and the reaction mechanism was discussed, in which the electron transfer and ion transfer reactions across the interface simultaneously occurred to maintain the electroneutrality of the liquids.
Highly Dispersed In‐Situ Grown Bi2O3 Nanosheets on Ti3C2Tx MXene for Selective Electroreduction of Nitrate to Ammonia
Authors: Zhang Hao‐Yu , Li Lan‐Xin , Sun Wu‐Ji , He Jing‐Hui , Xu Qing‐Feng , Lu Jian‐Mei
Published: December 2022

Nitrate, a common pollutant in water, can be used as a nitrogen source for electrocatalytic ammonia production. Bismuth oxide (Bi2O3) is a promising electrocatalyst because of earth‐abundance and high hydrogen overpotential. However, it also has the disadvantages of easy agglomeration and poor charge transfer. This study demonstrated that the high dispersion of Bi2O3 nanosheets can be achieved through in‐situ growth on Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets that improved the efficiency of charge transmission, and thus improving the electrocatalytic ammonia production performance. A NH3 yield rate of ∼7.00 mg h−1 cm−2 with faradic efficiency of 91.1 % could be achieved on 11 % Bi2O3/MXene. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations, electrochemical active surface area (ECSA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) proved that the excellent ammonia production performance came from the fact that bismuth oxide itself could inhibit hydrogen evolution, and in situ growth on MXene enabled high active site exposure and enhanced charge transfer capacity.
Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis Based on Nickel Ferrite Catalysts
Authors: Caprì Angela , Gatto Irene , Lo Vecchio Carmelo , Trocino Stefano , Carbone Alessandra , Baglio Vincenzo
Published: December 2022

A nickel ferrite was prepared by a liquid‐phase method and used as an oxygen evolution catalyst in an anion exchange membrane electrolyser. A complete physicochemical characterization of the catalyst was performed through X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Then, the nickel ferrite was deposited by spray coating technique onto a Fumasep® FAA3‐50 anion‐exchange membrane to realize a catalyst‐coated membrane (CCM), and tested in a 5 cm2 single cell setup in the so‐called zero‐gap configuration. At 60 °C and 2.2 V, a current density of 3 A/cm2 was reached, which is higher than that obtained with NiO and IrO2 commercial catalysts. Moreover, a chronoamperometric test of 120 h highlighted the good stability of the synthesized catalyst.
Lithium and Cobalt Recovery from Lithium‐Ion Battery Waste via Functional Ionic Liquid Extraction for Effective Battery Recycling
Authors: Morina Riccardo , Merli Daniele , Mustarelli Piercarlo , Ferrara Chiara
Published: December 2022

Sustainable management of spent lithium‐ion batteries, LIBs, is an urgent and critical challenge due to the number of such devices reaching the end‐of‐life. Recycling can offer a path for the recovery of valuable raw materials such as lithium and cobalt, whose supply is critical. Thus, it is mandatory to develop efficient ways for the selective recovery of Li and Co from the cathode degradation processes. In this study the most updated organic acids‐based processes for the degradation of LiCoO2, the most common LIBs cathode, is explored to obtain a leached solution containing Li and Co. The possibility to exploit the 3‐methyl‐1‐octylimidazolium thenoyltrifluoroacetone, Omim‐TTA, ionic liquid was demonstrated to efficiently separate Li and Co. In particular it was possible to recover >70 % of Li and separate it from Co using this ionic liquid, independently from the organic acid used for the leaching procedure and adding EDTA to the aqueous phase. The quantification was carried out through ICP analysis; the recovering of the unaltered ionic liquid was also demonstrated, to further increase the global sustainability of the process.
How Underflow Standpipes Adjust to Maintain Pressure Balance Around a Circulation Loop
Authors: Knowlton Ted , Karri S. B. Reddy
Published: December 2022

The standpipe has become a standard element of most circulation loops. In the past, standpipes have been thought of as a device to only allow solids to transfer from a low to a higher‐pressure region. However, it also has another function in a solids circulation loop. It is also the device that adjusts its operation to balance the pressure around the solids circulation loop. An overflow standpipe adjusts the pressure drop across it by raising or lowering the solids level in the standpipe. However, the operation of the underflow standpipe is more complex. This self‐adjusting function can cause underflow standpipe pressure drops to be negative, which seems counter‐intuitive. How an underflow standpipe operating with a negative pressure build can occur in a circulation loop is described below using two commercial unit examples as illustrations of this phenomenon.
Digitale Zwillinge in der Bioprozesstechnik – Chancen und Möglichkeiten
Authors: Richter Jannik , Lange Ferdinand , Scheper Thomas , Solle Dörte , Beutel Sascha
Published: December 2022

Die Digitalisierung von Prozessen ist eines der aktuell dominierenden Themen und Missionen sowohl in der industriellen Produktion als auch der wissenschaftlichen Forschung. In der Biotechnologie haben diese Bemühungen ein enormes Potenzial, um existierende Bioprozesse zu optimieren oder neue Bioprozesse für zukünftige Herausforderungen zu entwickeln. In diesem Übersichtsbeitrag wird der aktuelle Stand der Digitalisierung in der Bioprozesstechnik beleuchtet, die Begriffe digitaler Zwilling und digitaler Schatten charakterisiert sowie ein Ausblick auf zukünftige Lab 4.0‐Konzepte gegeben.
Recent Expedition inPd‐CatalyzedSonogashira Coupling and Related Processes†
Authors: Choy Pui Ying , Gan Kin Boon , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: December 2022

Comprehensive Summary

Sonogashira cross‐coupling protocol, typically showing the reaction between aryl/vinyl halide and terminal alkyne, has been a widely used protocol for constructing C(sp2)‐C(sp) bond. The resulting internal alkynes are highly versatile for reaching differently functionalized alkyne‐containing scaffolds or serving as valuable synthetic synthons to many other functional groups. It is worth noting that products originated from this coupling reaction are mostly applicable to be transformed into correspondingZ‐alkene, alkane, or heterocyclic moieties in natural product syntheses. The reaction conditions and catalyst systems are able to be tweaked in order to facilitate the activation of steric hindered and/or electron‐rich electrophiles. Pd‐catalyzed copper‐free Sonogashira coupling reaction has caught increasing attention as the improved method can be more environmentally friendly. What is more, the conditions of the coupling reaction can be readily amended to allow the fusion of other carbonylation or decarboxylation step in the catalytic cycle, and thus allow more complex yet versatile convergent synthesis to proceed in an operationally simple one‐pot manner.
A Reactive Molecular Dynamics Study of Chlorinated Organic Compounds. Part II: A ChemTraYzer Study of Chlorinated Dibenzofuran Formation and Decomposition Processes
Authors: Krep Lukas , Schmalz Felix , Solbach Florian , Komissarov Leonid , Nevolianis Thomas , Kopp Wassja A. , Verstraelen Toon , Leonhard Kai
Published: December 2022

In our two‐paper series, we first present the development of ReaxFF CHOCl parameters using the recently published ParAMS parametrization tool. In this second part, we update the reactive Molecular Dynamics – Quantum Mechanics coupling scheme ChemTraYzer and combine it with our new ReaxFF parameters from Part I to study formation and decomposition processes of chlorinated dibenzofurans. We introduce a self‐learning method for recovering failed transition‐state searches that improves the overall ChemTraYzer transition‐state search success rate by 10 percentage points to a total of 48 %. With ChemTraYzer, we automatically find and quantify more than 500 reactions using transition state theory and DFT. Among the discovered chlorinated dibenzofuran reactions are numerous reactions that are new to the literature. In three case studies, we discuss the set of reactions that are most relevant to the dibenzofuran literature: (i) bimolecular reactions of the chlorinated‐dibenzofuran precursors phenoxy radical and 1,3,5‐trichlorobenzene, (ii) dibenzofuran chlorination and pyrolysis, and (iii) oxidation of chlorinated dibenzofurans.
Recent Advances and Challenges in Barbier Polymerization
Authors: Chen Yu‐Jiao , Wu Liang‐Tao , Xiao Hang , Sun Xiao‐Li , Wan Wen‐Ming
Published: December 2022

The Barbier reaction, a classical name reaction for carbon‐carbon bond formation, has played important roles in organic chemistry for over 120 years. The introduction of the Barbier reaction into polymer chemistry for the development of a novel Barbier polymerization, expands the methodology, monomer, chemical structure and property libraries of polymerization, aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) and non‐traditional intrinsic luminescence (NTIL). This mini review focuses on Barbier polymerization, including the brief introduction of the history and importance of polymerization methods design and the achievements of Barbier polymerization from molecular design strategies, functionalities and properties. An outlook of Barbier polymerization is also proposed. This mini review on Barbier polymerization therefore may cause inspirations to scientists in different fields.