bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Scale On‐Chip Integration of Gate‐Voltage Addressable Hybrid Superconductor–Semiconductor Quantum Wells Field Effect Nano‐Switch Arrays
Authors: Delfanazari Kaveh , Li Jiahui , Ma Pengcheng , Puddy Reuben K. , Yi Teng , Xiong Yusheng , Farrer Ian , Komori Sachio , Robinson Jason W. A. , Ritchie David A. , Kelly Michael J. , Joyce Hannah J. , Smith Charles G.
Published: October 2023

Stable, reproducible, scalable, addressable, and controllable hybrid superconductor–semiconductor (S–Sm) junctions and switches are key circuit elements and building blocks of gate‐based quantum processors. The electrostatic field effect produced by the split gate voltages facilitates the realization of nano‐switches that can control the conductance or current in the hybrid S–Sm circuits based on 2D semiconducting electron systems. Here, a novel realization of large‐scale scalable, and gate voltage controllable hybrid field effect quantum chips is experimentally demonstrated. Each chip contains arrays of split gate field effect hybrid junctions, that work as conductance switches, and are made from In0.75Ga0.25As quantum wells integrated with Nb superconducting electronic circuits. Each hybrid junction in the chip can be controlled and addressed through its corresponding source–drain and two global split gate contact pads that allow switching between their (super)conducting and insulating states. A total of 18 quantum chips are fabricated with 144 field effect hybrid Nb‐ In0.75Ga0.25As 2DEG‐Nb quantum wires and the electrical response, switching voltage (on/off) statistics, quantum yield, and reproducibility of several devices at cryogenic temperatures are investigated. The proposed integrated quantum device architecture allows control of individual junctions in a large array on a chip useful for emerging cryogenic quantum technologies.
Vertical 1T’‐WTe2/WS2 Schottky‐Barrier Phototransistor with Polarity‐Switching Behavior
Authors: Ma Jingyi , Wang Jina , Chen Quan , Chen Shengdi , Yang Mengmeng , Sun Yiming , Zheng Zhaoqiang , Huo Nengjie , Yan Yong , Li Jingbo , Gao Wei
Published: October 2023

In recent years, 2D reconfigurable phototransistors (RPTs) have been applied in broadband convolutional processing, retinomorphic hardware devices, and non‐volatile memorizers. However, there has been a lack of investigation into all‐2D Schottky junctions used in RPT with polarity control behavior. Herein, a vertically stacked multilayered WS2/WTe2 Schottky RPT is reported. The semimetal characteristics of 1T’‐WTe2 is designed to form a built‐in electric field of 69 meV across the heterojunction and WS2 exhibits gate‐tunable characteristics. Therefore, reconfigurable rectifying behavior and self‐driven bidirectional photo response can be achieved. The phototransistor possesses a gate‐tunable rectification ratio ranging from 10−2 to 105, and the corresponding logic half‐wave rectifier shows excellent switchable rectifying states. Under 635 nm illumination, the responsivity can be adjusted from −1325 to 430 mA W−1 with reversed signs. Meanwhile, the maximum power conversion efficiency is 2.84%, and the specific detectivity is 1.47 × 1012 Jones. The device shows both negative and positive responsivity with linear gate dependence within a voltage window of 10 V. Impressively, nonvolatile photovoltaic performance can be demonstrated by reversing short‐circuit current and open‐circuit voltage by applying and releasing pulsed gate voltage. Finally, reconfigurable polarization behavior, single‐pixel imaging, and the optical logic circuit are applicable to the heterostructure.
Self‐Configured Composites of Ruddlesden‐Popper Perovskite and Pr6O11 as Efficient and Durable Air Electrodes for Reversible Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Xia Jiaojiao , Zhu Feng , He Fan , Xu Kang , Choi YongMan , Chen Yu
Published: October 2023

A breakthrough in the development of air electrodes is critical to minimizing the performance deterioration of reversible protonic ceramic electrochemical cells (R‐PCECs), which have demonstrated the potential to be the most promising electrochemical device for energy storage and conversion. Here, a Co‐doped Ruddlesden‐Popper (RP) perovskite with a nominal formula of Pr2Ni0.6Co0.4O4‐δ is reported, which is self‐configured into a composite of Pr4Ni1.8Co1.2O10‐δ (PNCO, 89.57 wt.%) and Pr6O11 (10.43 wt.%), suggested by the X‐ray diffraction refinement. The composite electrodes exhibit improved electrochemical activity with an area‐specific resistance of 0.33 Ω cm2 at 600 °C after being treated with wet air, due primarily to the raised surface exchange, bulk diffusion capabilities, and the increasing amount of Pr6O11 with catalytic activity. The R‐PCECs with the composite electrodes achieve a maximum power density of 1.32 W cm−2 and a current density of 3.09 A cm−2 at 1.3 V with acceptable Faradaic efficiencies at 650 °C. Furthermore, the composite electrodes show benign operational durability in fuel cell mode (‐0.5 A cm−2 for 167 h) and electrolysis mode (+0.5 A cm−2 for 176 h), and promising cycling stability (+/‐0.5 A cm−2) of 124 h at an interval of 2 h.
Quaternary Ammonium‐Free Membranes for Water Electrolysis with 1 m KOH
Authors: Dayan Asridin , Trisno Muhammad Luthfi Akbar , Yang Chaeyeon , Kraglund Mikkel Rykær , Almind Mads Radmer , Hjelm Johan , Jensen Jens Oluf , Aili David , Park Hyun S. , Henkensmeier Dirk
Published: October 2023

While anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis has many advantages, its commercialization is impeded by the low alkaline stability of most AEM, due to the fragility of quaternary ammonium groups. Ion solvating membranes (ISM) can be an alternative, but so far require high alkaline concentrations. Here, it is shown that sulfonation of polybenzimidazole results in ISM which swell strongly in 1 m KOH. Crosslinking with dibromoxylene controls the swelling, and after activation conductivities of >100 mS cm−1 can be reached in 1 m KOH. Stability in 1 m KOH at 80 °C is excellent: Conductivity remains unchanged and tensile strength and Young's modulus remains high over the test period of a half year. In an electrolyzer operating with 1 m KOH feed solution at 80 °C, a stable performance is achieved for over 500 h test without failure, suggesting that the high alkaline stability observed in ex situ tests is also achieved in the electrolyzer.
Spontaneously Generated Electrons for CO2 Hydrogenation to Formate at the Microinterface of Air‐Water
Authors: Wang Shuanglong , Shan Shan , Xiao Shan , Liu Feng , Yang Zequn , Li Shuibin , Qiu Zidong , Dong Xiaofeng , Cheng Yuanyuan , Zhang Xinglei
Published: October 2023

The periphery of the microdroplets exhibits unusual physical properties that are not observed in bulk solutions. This work demonstrates in water microdroplets OH− can spontaneously donate electrons for CO2 hydrogenation to formic acid (FA), which may be driven by a strong electric field at or near the interfaces of water microdroplets. Surprisingly, Cu ions in microdroplets contribute to a 4000 times increase in output of FA. Control experiments show that in water microdroplets, electrons can be deposited by valence alternation of Cu to form Cu speciation, which can promote formate conversion. The authors show for the first time, without using any additives, under ambient conditions water microdroplets can capture CO2 and reduce CO2 to formate, which implies that water microdroplets may have provided a reactor for abiotic reduction reactions in the prebiotic era, thereby synthesizing organic molecules from atmospheric CO2 with a nonenzymatic production power before the advent of biotic reducing types of machinery.
A Biphase Tandem Redox Electrolyte for Efficient Quantum Dot‐Sensitized Solar Cell
Authors: Li Mingyue , Fu Li , Zhou Xiaowen , Shi Chunfeng , Hao Haijun , Jia Jianguang
Published: October 2023

A new biphase tandem redox electrolyte system is designed by immobilizing imidazolium iodide on Co, N‐doped carbon electrode in conjunction with polysulfide redox mediator in aqueous solution. Due to its biphasic feature, this redox system is enabled to separate the redox reactions in different phases, and hence, prevent the intertwined problem of redox reactions that occurred in one‐phase tandem redox system. Investigations show that the biphase redox system can efficiently accelerate electron reduction, and thereby inhibit charge recombination. Consequently, quantum dot (QD)‐sensitized solar cell fabricates using this biphase tandem redox together with CdSe QD‐sensitized photoanode achieved a high cell efficiency of 6.85% at 100 mW cm2 simulated AM 1.5, showing about 33% increment as compared to the traditional pure polysulfide‐based device (5.14%). The encouraging results indicate that the utilization of biphase tandem electrolytes can be an efficient way to improve the performance of sensitized solar cells.
Spectrometry for better soil fertility management in Abbay River Basin
Authors: Tiruneh Gizachew Ayalew , Meshesha Derege Tsegaye , Adgo Enyew , Alemayehu Tiringo Yilak , Fekadu Genetu , Mulualem Temesgen , Demissie Simeneh , Tilahun Kefyialew , Reichert José Miguel
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to determine how soil bunds affected important soil characteristics based on the soil's reflectance in Aba Gerima, an Ethiopian midland of the Abbay River Basin. Soil samples were collected from 0 to 30 cm of the soil depth in 48 plots for soil texture, pH, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), available phosphorus (av. P), and available potassium (av. K). Using a spectroradiometer, we evaluated the reflectance of soils that had been air‐dried, pulverized, and sieved. To locate and forecast the change in soil parameters, we employed regression modeling. We identified and predicted soil properties using the models, which were evaluated by the coefficient of determination (R2) and root mean square error. Soils from bunded plots had less reflection. Higher amounts of clay (61%), OC (2.30%), av. P (13.72 ppm), and av. K (116.55 mg/kg) were found in bunded plots. For calibration data,R2was 0.93, 0.83, and 0.82 for clay, sand, and OC contents, respectively. Spectroradiometry could therefore complement conventional soil analysis. More study is needed to enhance spectroscopy's prediction performance.
On working with poison: Reflections on painful empowerment in queer faculty‐student participatory action research
Authors: Lichty Lauren F. , Belmont Jessica
Published: October 2023

Human sexuality textbooks, like most social and health sciences products, are notoriously limited in their inclusion of queer, trans, and intersex people. While well‐intentioned faculty (like the first author) do their best to address these limitations, sometimes it isn't enough. Sometimes our texts, and we, cause harm. This paper describes two phases of a participatory action research (PAR) project involving queer, trans, and intersex students and a queer, nonbinary faculty member that intended to address harm tied to a course text, support student empowerment, and move toward action to improve unjust textbook representation. Through first‐person reflective storytelling, we, the faculty member and one student member of the research team, share our approach to “working with poison,” including strategies for infusing trauma‐informed practices into our PAR approach. We reflect on the pain of doing this work, and the ways our approach succeeded and failed. We end with recommendations for individuals, publishers, and institutions looking to minimize harm and promote justice in higher education curriculum.
A newly identified ferritin L‐subunit variant results in increased proteasomal subunit degradation, impaired complex assembly, and severe hypoferritinemia
Authors: Shagidov Dayana , Guttmann‐Raviv Noga , Cunat Séverine , Frech Liora , Giansily‐Blaizot Muriel , Ghatpande Niraj , Abelya Gili , Frank Gabriel A. , Aguilar Martinez Patricia , Meyron‐Holtz Esther G.
Published: October 2023

Ferritin is a hetero‐oligomeric nanocage, composed of 24 subunits of two types, FTH1 and FTL. It protects the cell from excess reactive iron, by storing iron in its cavity. FTH1 is essential for the recruitment of iron into the ferritin nanocage and for cellular ferritin trafficking, whereas FTL contributes to nanocage stability and iron nucleation inside the cavity. Here we describe a female patient with a medical history of severe hypoferritinemia without anemia. Following inadequate heavy IV iron supplementation, the patient developed severe iron overload and musculoskeletal manifestations. However, her serum ferritin levels rose only to normal range. Genetic analyses revealed an undescribed homozygous variant of FTL (c.92A > G), which resulted in a Tyr31Cys substitution (FTLY31C). Analysis of the FTL structure predicted that the Y31C mutation will reduce the variant's stability. Expression of the FTLY31C variant resulted in significantly lower cellular ferritin levels compared with the expression of wild‐type FTL (FTLWT). Proteasomal inhibition significantly increased the initial levels of FTLY31C, but could not protect FTLY31C subunits from successive degradation. Further, variant subunits successfully incorporated into hetero‐polymeric nanocages in the presence of sufficient levels of FTH1. However, FTLY31C subunits poorly assembled into nanocages when FTH1 subunit levels were low. These results indicate an increased susceptibility of unassembled monomeric FTLY31C subunits to proteasomal degradation. The decreased cellular assembly of FTLY31C‐rich nanocages may explain the low serum ferritin levels in this patient and emphasize the importance of a broader diagnostic approach of hypoferritinemia without anemia, before IV iron supplementation.
Ortho‐Alkoxy‐benzamide Directed Formation of a Single Crystalline Hydrogen‐bonded Crosslinked Organic Framework and Its Boron Trifluoride Uptake and Catalysis
Authors: Li Fangzhou , Li Errui , Samanta Krishanu , Zheng Zhaoxi , Wu Lianqian , Chen Albert D. , Farha Omar K. , Staples Richard J. , Niu Jia , Schmidt‐Rohr Klaus , Ke Chenfeng
Published: October 2023

Boron trifluoride (BF3) is a highly corrosive gas widely used in industry. Confining BF3 in porous materials ensures safe and convenient handling and prevents its degradation. Hence, it is highly desired to develop porous materials with high adsorption capacity, high stability, and resistance to BF3 corrosion. Herein, we designed and synthesized a Lewis basic single‐crystalline hydrogen‐bond crosslinked organic framework (HCOF‐50) for BF3 storage and its application in catalysis. Specifically, we introduced self‐complementary ortho‐alkoxy‐benzamide hydrogen‐bonding moieties to direct the formation of highly organized hydrogen‐bonded networks, which were subsequently photo‐crosslinked to generate HCOFs. The HCOF‐50 features Lewis basic thioether linkages and electron‐rich pore surfaces for BF3 uptake. As a result, HCOF‐50 shows a record‐high 14.2 mmol/g BF3 uptake capacity. The BF3 uptake in HCOF‐50 is reversible, leading to the slow release of BF3. We leveraged this property to reduce the undesirable chain transfer and termination in the cationic polymerization of vinyl ethers. Polymers with higher molecular weights and lower polydispersity were generated compared to those synthesized using BF3 ⋅ Et2O. The elucidation of the structure–property relationship, as provided by the single‐crystal X‐ray structures, combined with the high BF3 uptake capacity and controlled sorption, highlights the molecular understanding of framework‐guest interactions in addressing contemporary challenges.
Surface Sites and Ligation in Amine‐capped CdSe Nanocrystals**
Authors: Cao Weicheng , Yakimov Alexander , Qian Xudong , Li Jiongzhao , Peng Xiaogang , Kong Xueqian , Copéret Christophe
Published: October 2023

Converting colloidal nanocrystals (NCs) into devices for various applications is facilitated by designing and controlling their surface properties. One key strategy for tailoring surface properties is thus to choose tailored surface ligands. In that context, amines have been universally used, with the goal to improve NCs synthesis, processing and performances. However, understanding the nature of surface sites in amine‐capped NCs remains challenging, due to the complex surface compositions as well as surface ligands dynamic. Here, we investigate both surface sites and amine ligation in CdSe NCs by combining advanced NMR spectroscopy and computational modelling. Notably, dynamic nuclear polarization (DNP) enhanced 113Cd and 77Se 1D NMR helps to identify both bulk and surface sites of NCs, while 113Cd 2D NMR spectroscopy enables to resolve amines terminated sites on both Se‐rich and nonpolar surfaces. In addition to directly bonding to surface sites, amines are shown to also interact through hydrogen‐bonding with absorbed water as revealed by 15N NMR, augmented with computations. The characterization methodology developed for this work provides unique molecular‐level insight into the surface sites of a range of amine‐capped CdSe NCs, and paves the way to identify structure‐function relationships and rational approaches towards colloidal NCs with tailored properties.
Artificial Peptide‐Protein Necrosomes Promote Cell Death
Authors: Guo Ruo‐Chen , Wang Ning , Wang Weishu , Zhang Zeyu , Luo Wendi , Wang Yushi , Du Haiqin , Xu Yifei , Li Gongyu , Yu Zhilin
Published: October 2023

The presence of disordered region or large interacting surface within proteins significantly challenges the development of targeted drugs, commonly known as the “undruggable” issue. Here, we report a heterogeneous peptide‐protein assembling strategy to selectively phosphorylate proteins, thereby activating the necroptotic signaling pathway and promoting cell necroptosis. Inspired by the structures of natural necrosomes formed by receptor interacting protein kinases (RIPK) 1 and 3, the kinase‐biomimetic peptides are rationally designed by incorporating natural or D‐amino acids, or connecting D‐amino acids in a retro‐inverso (DRI) manner, leading to one RIPK3‐biomimetic peptide PR3 and three RIPK1‐biomimetic peptides. Individual peptides undergo self‐assembly into nanofibrils, whereas mixing RIPK1‐biomimetic peptides with PR3 accelerates and enhances assembly of PR3. In particular, RIPK1‐biomimetic peptide DRI‐PR1 exhibits reliable binding affinity with protein RIPK3, resulting in specific cytotoxicity to colon cancer cells that overexpress RIPK3. Mechanistic studies reveal the increased phosphorylation of RIPK3 induced by RIPK1‐biomimetic peptides, elucidating the activation of the necroptotic signaling pathway responsible for cell death without an obvious increase in secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Our findings highlight the potential of peptide‐protein hybrid aggregation as a promising approach to address the “undruggable” issue and provide alternative strategies for overcoming cancer resistance in the future.
Impact of steaming and roasting heat‐treatment on physico‐chemical and functional properties of walnut kernel
Authors: Zhao Xiaoyan , Ren Xiangrui , Liu Hongkai , Zhang Xiaowei , Wang Meng , Hu Haifang
Published: October 2023

In this study, the effect of steaming and roasting treatment on the physicochemical and functional properties of walnut kernel at 95°C for different time (15, 20, and 30 min) was investigated. Steaming and roasting treatments significantly increased the enthalpy change for protein denaturation, in‐vitro digestibility, viscosity, storage modulus (G′) and loss modulus (G″) (p < 0.05), the order from high to low was steaming (7.11–8.69 J g−1; the gastric and intestinal digestion: 1.21%–17.83% and 1.51%–27.31%, respectively; 134.04–450.49 Pa s; 214.28–1047.14 and 61.72–196.09 Pa) > roasting (6.24–7.07 J g−1; the gastric and intestinal digestion: 1.26–15.42% and 1.21–22.37% a, respectively; 16.92–86.07 Pa s; 6.58–209.85 and 3.08–67.14) > untreated (4.53 J g−1; the gastric and intestinal digestion: 0.24%–4.18% and 1.00–7.58%, respectively; 17.06 Pa s; 5.78 and 1.79 Pa). All samples contained the essential amino acids, the amino acid score of samples by steaming was the highest. In addition, the protein of walnut kernel after heating treatment contained more α‐helix and random coil structures compared to the untreated sample, while β‐sheet and β‐turns structures decreased. Moreover, the thermal treatment could cause the changes of the water/oil holding capacity, foaming and emulsifying properties of walnut kernel flour. When there were differences between the results of steaming and roasting samples, it was concluded that the water played an important role in steaming. These results suggested that the thermal treatment as an effective approach could improve the physico‐chemical, structural and functional properties of walnut kernel and be potentially applied in the food processing.
Rapid Olefin Cyclopropanation Catalyzed by a Bioinspired Cobalt Complex
Authors: Tan Liming , Wu Keyang , Li Gang
Published: October 2023

Cyclopropanes are important structural motifs found in many natural products and are essential to the pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries. Here, we report a bioinspired cobalt catalyst that catalyzes the intermolecular cyclopropanation of various terminal olefins using ethyl diazoacetate (EDA) in high efficiency. This cobalt catalytic system is operationally simple under very mild conditions, enabling the synthesis of cyclopropane products with remarkable yields in short reaction time. Preliminary mechanistic studies suggest the presence of cobalt carbene radical species during the reaction.
A scoping review of empirical research on emergent intraverbal behavior
Authors: Conine Daniel E. , Frampton Sarah E. , Buote Kyrsten A. , Keller Chelsea E.
Published: October 2023

For decades, Skinner's analysis of verbal behavior has been applied in a variety of contexts. One critically important topic in this area is the extent to which some verbal operants may be learned indirectly, as a result of learning other verbal operants. This phenomenon is often referred to as emergent verbal behavior, and is critical to our understanding of how language is learned in a generative fashion across the lifespan. Emergent intraverbal repertoires are especially important because responses under some degree of intraverbal control may constitute a majority of responses in a fully formed verbal repertoire. Recent literature reviews suggest that there are many published studies on emergent intraverbals, but that this body of literature is highly heterogeneous. To provide an overview of this literature and map out the various tactics used across studies, we conducted a scoping review. We identified 99 total experiments on emergent intraverbals contained in 79 total articles. Findings are summarized in terms of populations and independent variables studied, procedural variations, and recommendations for future research.
Glutamine‐limited batch hybridoma growth and antibody production: Experiment and model
Authors: Dalili Mina , Sayles Gregory D. , Ollis David F.
Published: October 2023

The influence of glutamine (a major energy source) on both hybridoma growth and monoclonal antibody production was examined. A series of batch experiments were performed in T‐flasks containing initial glutamine levels ranging from 0.5 to 4.0 mM in RPMI 1640 with 20% v/v fetal calf serum. The maximum final cell concentration increased with initial glutamine levels in the range of 0.5–2 mM; further glutamine increases had little or no effect. Earlier studies in our laboratories demonstrated that serum component(s) strongly influence the maximum specific growth rate. Here, the present studies reveal also the stoichiometric limitation by glutamine in the later stages of growth when its concentration is drastically reduced. For 0.5 to 1.5 mM initial glutamine, complete substrate utilization coincided with the cessation of cell growth and the onset of the death phase. For initial glutamine concentrations higher than 2.0 mM, growth halted prior to glutamine exhaustion, presumably because serum or RPMI component(s) were exhausted. The specific antibody secretion rate was essentially non‐growth‐associated above a critical low glutamine concentration in both the growth and death phases. At or below this critical value, an apparent emergence of stoichiometnc or energy limitation resulted in a dramatic drop in the secretion rate to zero. A simple unstructured model was developed that simulates these trends well. All parameters were determined using only subsets of the data. Nevertheless, these parameter values provided simulations in good agreement with all the glutamine‐limited cultures.
Employing an underwater vehicle in education as a learning tool for Python programming
Authors: Rousouliotis Minas , Vasileiou Marios , Manos Nikolaos , Kavallieratou Ergina
Published: October 2023

Getting students motivated and interested in their education can be challenging in any classroom setting, even more so in an online learning environment. In this spectrum, educational robotics (ER) has demonstrated numerous advantages in the educational environment, not only by facilitating teaching, but also enabling the cultivation of manyfold skills, including creativity, problem‐solving, and teamwork. Meanwhile, many methods have been developed with the aid of technology to improve the teaching process and boost students' ability to learn. Blended learning is one approach that integrates conventional classroom methods with digital resources in an effort to foster students' creativity. But how can blended learning be combined with robotics? The objective of this paper is to evaluate the impact of employing an underwater vehicle, called educational underwater vehicle (EDUV), in conjunction with a dedicated programming learning platform within the context of a programming course that is offered at the high school level. In this work, this platform is utilized by students in secondary education, and a survey was conducted prior and after using the underwater vehicle's platform based on two questionnaires. The survey included 112 Greek participants, 64 males and 48 females in the age range of 14–18 years old. The experimental results show an increase in their motivation and creativity. In other words, they are more engaged in the classroom and the lesson becomes more enjoyable. More specifically, the survey revealed that most participants are familiar with computers but have limited knowledge of robotics and programming. After training on the EDUV platform, participants showed a significant increase in correct responses for Python and Blockly environments, with an average of 50.7% in four programming‐related questions. The platform also reduced “do not know” replies, which means that the student's self‐esteem increased. The paired sample T‐test showed that the EDUV platform positively influenced participants' perceptions of robotics and motivated them to further their education. In this paper, the related work is discussed, and the architecture of the vehicle is analyzed, along with the integration with the online platform. In addition, the methodology performed is explained and divided into steps. Finally, the experimental results are discussed. Instructions, 3D models, and code can be found in the github repository https://github.com/MariosVasileiou/EDUV.
Group psychotherapy format guided self‐help for patients with FNSD awaiting inpatient multidisciplinary treatment: A pilot study
Authors: Boico Vasile , Humblestone Susan , Moutoussis Michael , Selai Caroline
Published: October 2023

Background

We describe our experience of developing Guided Self Help for patients with Functional Neurological Symptom Disorder as group therapy, delivered remotely, via Zoom.

Aims

The aims of the current study are (a) to describe how the original Queen Square Guided Self‐Help (QGSH) was adapted for group therapy, and (b) to present a service evaluation of the first 8 months of running QGSH therapy groups remotely.

Methods

We carried out a review after 8 months, from 11 May 2021 until 31 January 2022.

Results

A total of 16 patients were treated in three groups. Assessing our outcomes in terms of Yalom's framework for group psychotherapy, we found that the group provided 10/11 of Yalom's therapeutic factors. Patient satisfaction was high.

Discussion

We outline for plans for further devaluation and development, including the development of a stand‐alone group.

Conclusion

The group therapy format is a promising addition to our service.
A Review on Bioactive Compounds, Ethnomedicinal Importance and Pharmacological Activities of Talinum triangulare (Jacq.) Willd
Authors: Dinesh Anagha , Kumar Ajay
Published: October 2023

Talinum triangulare (Jacq.) Willd. is a traditional leafy vegetable used by tribal communities for ethnomedicinal and ethnoculinary preparations. This article reviews the current knowledge of its multiple uses, including pharmacological activities and nutritional composition. The literature survey shows that it has been traditionally useful in the treatment of several diseases, such as anaemia, diabetes, measles, and ulcers and the preparation of various traditional foods. Analysis of the literature on its phytochemicals shows its richness in bioactive compounds. Further, research also shows that this plant has antidiabetic, antiobesity, antitumor, antiulcer, hepatoprotective, and neuroprotective activities besides anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Nutrient analysis of the plant reveals the presence of Ca, Zn, Fe, vitamins C and E, dietary fibre and protein in considerable quantities. The results of the pharmacological studies on the antidiabetic, antiulcer and anti‐anaemic activities provide support in favour of its ethnomedicinal uses. The presence of bioactive compounds and pharmacological activities show the usefulness of this plant as a functional food.
Phytochemical Analysis of Anacamptis coriophora Plant Cultivated Using Ex Vitro Symbiotic Propagation
Authors: Aytar Erdi Can , Harzli Ines , Özdener Kömpe Yasemin
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the functional groups and phytochemical profile of Anacamptis coriophora seeds, tubers, and flowers. Symbiotic seedlings produced using the ex vitro method were transferred to their natural habitat and grown to analyze the functional groups and phytochemical profiles of tubers and flowers. The life cycles of the transferred seedlings were monitored, and tubers and flowers were harvested for analysis. ATR‐FTIR spectroscopy revealed the presence of functional groups such as polysaccharides, lignin, and proteins in both tubers and flowers. Differences in spectral frequencies between first‐year and second‐year tubers were observed. Fatty acid analysis identified 30 different compounds in seeds, flowers, and tubers, with linoleic acid being the most abundant (27 % in seeds, 33 % in tubers), and palmitic acid present in flowers (24 %). GC‐MS analysis of ethanol extracts from these components highlighted the presence of 32 compounds, including hydroxyacetic acid, hydrazide, cytidine (Z)‐7‐hexadecenal, 2,2‐dimethoxyethane, 2,5,6‐trimethyldecane, and butanamide, 4‐amino‐N‐hydroxy. A. coriophora‘s tubers, flowers, and seeds may contain active metabolites with therapeutic potential. These results are valuable for the commercial cultivation of the plant.
Inducin Triggers LC3‐Lipidation and ESCRT‐Mediated Lysosomal Membrane Repair
Authors: Corkery Dale , Ursu Andrei , Lucas Belén , Grigalunas Michael , Kriegler Simon , Oliva Rosario , Dec Robert , Koska Sandra , Pahl Axel , Sievers Sonja , Ziegler Slava , Winter Roland , Wu Yao‐Wen , Waldmann Herbert
Published: October 2023

Lipidation of the LC3 protein has frequently been employed as a marker of autophagy. However, LC3‐lipidation is also triggered by stimuli not related to canonical autophagy. Therefore, characterization of the driving parameters for LC3 lipidation is crucial to understanding the biological roles of LC3. We identified a pseudo‐natural product, termed Inducin, that increases LC3 lipidation independently of canonical autophagy, impairs lysosomal function and rapidly recruits Galectin 3 to lysosomes. Inducin treatment promotes Endosomal Sorting Complex Required for Transport (ESCRT)‐dependent membrane repair and transcription factor EB (TFEB)‐dependent lysosome biogenesis ultimately leading to cell death.
Amulet device implantation following incomplete left atrial appendage closure with Watchman legacy device
Authors: Yoon Sung‐Han , Elgendy Akram Y. , Dallan Luis Augusto Palma , Filby Steven J.
Published: October 2023

Peri‐device leak after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is often treated with endovascular coils, plugs, or second occluders. This is the first study reporting the Amulet device used for peri‐device leak. An 80‐year‐old male with paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and recurrent falls with head trauma who underwent LAAC with a 24 mm Watchman 2.5 device 3 years ago at another institution was referred to our clinic for management of the peri‐device leak. Transesophageal echocardiogram showed persistent residual peri‐device leak with 5 mm width along the Coumadin ridge aspect of the device. Computed tomography (CT) also showed the peri‐device leak with width of 6 mm and complete opacification of left atrial appendage (LAA). Importantly, CT demonstrated that the Watchman 2.5 device was deployed at distal LAA, leaving the proximal part of LAA with length of 10 mm from ostium. Under general anesthesia, a 22 mm Amulet device was deployed successfully with complete sealing of LAA. Procedure planning is the key to minimize the risk of peri‐device leak or device‐related thrombosis. Careful assessment of LAA anatomy using multimodality images for peri‐device leak after LAAC helped optimal treatment strategy including second LAAC with different type of devices.
Impact of isolated and chemically modified dietary fiber on bakery products: Current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Sempio Rebecca , Sahin Aylin W. , Walter Jens , Arendt Elke K. , Zannini Emanuele
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

Dietary fiber (DF) plays a crucial role in promoting human health and preventing diseases. However, the average intake of fiber falls short of the recommended levels in affluent populations, largely due to the overconsumption of high‐energetic foods. Fortification of widely consumed foods with fiber can help address such population deficiencies.

Findings

Although fiber fortification can affect product quality, it offers practical advantages such as gelling, thickening, and water‐binding properties. This review focuses on the impact of isolated fiber ingredients, including arabinoxylan, β‐glucan, cellulose, resistant starch, and pectin, on bakery products, and fiber quantification methods to ensure accuracy and comparability in research. The structural interactions of DF during processing, sensory evaluation, and health implications are discussed. Alternative/novel fiber sources are explored as a strategic approach to enhance product attributes.

Conclusions

Considerable research has focused on individual fibers, but little is known about the synergistic effects of combining multiple fiber ingredients.

Significance and Novelty

Combining different fibers in food products could optimize their nutritional profile and enhance ingredients' performance in the food matrix.
Evaluating the quality of soy residue‐supplemented Korean traditional rice wine and its lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Kim Jisuk , Kim Sea Hun , Kim Yookyung
Published: October 2023

Background and Objectives

Traditional Korean rice wine (makgeolli), contains various microorganisms, including lactic acid bacteria (LAB). This study investigated the utilization of biji, a by‐product of soy processing, as a substitute for rice in makgeolli fermentation. We evaluated the functional properties of biji‐makgeolli and examined the probiotic properties of LAB isolated from it.

Findings

Biji‐makgeolli exhibited lower sugar and alcohol contents and higher pH and acidity than 100% rice makgeolli (control). Moreover, biji‐makgeolli displayed higher total viable cells (5.54–6.32 log CFU/g), yeast (4.23–6.59 log CFU/g), and LAB (5.44–6.48 log CFU/g) than control (5.26, 2.59, and 5.23 log CFU/g), which increased with biji addition. Furthermore, biji‐makgeolli showed higher total phenolic content, antioxidant capacity, and α‐glucosidase inhibitory activity, increasing with biji addition. Three LAB strains were isolated from makgeolli, identified as Pediococcus pentosaceus)‐KX886792 in control (CW) and P. pentosaceus‐KX886790 (RW), and Lactobacillus coryniformis (RM) in 50% biji replaced makgeolli. All groups (CW, RW, and RM) survived exposure to pH 3 for 3 h and 0.3% bile salts for 24 h and exhibited the ability to adhere to HT‐29 cells. RW (20.7%) and RM (27.5%) showed antioxidant effects, having higher ABTS+ values than CW (7.5%). The expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐8 was significantly suppressed in RW and RM compared with that in CW. RW and RM showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli. Additionally, RM was active against Staphylococcus aureus and exhibited a cholesterol‐lowering effect.

Conclusions

Biji enhances the antioxidant capacity of makgeolli, and LAB isolated from biji‐makgeolli exhibit potential probiotic properties.

Significance and Novelty

Biji is a potential additive for producing plant‐derived LAB in makgeolli and developing functional foods.
Rational Design of Electrocatalysts for Water Oxidation Reaction: Inspiration from Photosystem II
Authors: Li Hanxi , Lang Feifan , Liu Ming , Zhang Xinghao , Yang Di , Zhang Jijie , Bu Xian‐He
Published: October 2023

To address the ever‐increasing societal demand for clean energy, electrocatalytic water splitting has attracted considerable interest for the efficient production of H2 and O2. However, the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is inherently sluggish and poses a significant challenge to the overall water splitting process. As a result, extensive research efforts have been dedicated to pursuing various approaches in developing efficient electrocatalysts for water oxidation. The oxygen‐evolving center (OEC) of Photosystem II (PS II) is a natural model giving the prominent reference. Hence, this review discusses recent advances in the design of artificial electrocatalyst inspired by PS II. The discussion begins with a brief introduction to the fundamentals of electrocatalytic water oxidation and PS II. Subsequently, the progress of the novel electrocatalysts inspired by PS II is presented in the following two aspects: engineering various transition metal clusters to mimic the inorganic metal cluster of OEC (Mn4O5Ca), and utilizing different ligands to simulate the protein and amino acid environment around [Mn4O5Ca]. In addition to outlying the structures, catalytic activities, and corresponding mechanisms of these prepared catalysts, this present review concludes by proposing several effective development perspectives to this emerging field that warrant further investigation.
The Role of Solvated Electrons in Direct Methanol Fuel Cells
Authors: Paronen Mikael , Abdelhamid Muhammad E. , Johansson Patrik
Published: October 2023

Direct methanol fuel cells, DMFCs, have for long been considered as a superior alternative to rechargeable batteries for various portable applications with respect to significantly higher theoretical power densities and faster recharging by simply filling up with new liquid fuel. In reality, however, DMFCs so far have much low power densities, suffer from high fuel losses, and require extremely expensive catalysts at high loadings. Here we show that an until now not considered process at the DMFC electrodes may cause these severe losses in performance. The process is that electrons generated at nano‐structured catalyst loaded electrodes become solvated into the surrounding electrolyte. Taking this new process and resulting reaction mechanism(s) fully into account, material and catalyst/electrode design should be reconsidered to realize the true potential of DMFCs.
Anion Tuned Structural Modulation and Nonlinear Optical Effects of Metal‐Ion Directed 310‐Helix Networks
Authors: Roy Souvik , Chaturvedi Aman , Dey Sanjit , Puneeth Kumar DRGKoppalu R. , Pahan Saikat , Panda Mahapatra Souvik , Mandal Pankaj , Gopi Hosahudya N.
Published: October 2023

Metals play an important role in the structure and functions of various proteins. The combination of metal ions and peptides have been emerging as an attractive field to create advanced structures and biomaterials. Here, we are reporting the anion‐influenced, silver ion coordinated diverse networks of designed short tripeptide 310‐helices with terminal pyridyl groups. The short peptides adopted classical right‐handed, left‐handed and 310EL‐helical conformations in the presence of different silver salts. The peptides have displayed conformational flexibility to accommodate different sizes and interactions of anions to yield a variety of metal‐coordinated networks. The complexes of metal ions and peptides have shown different porous networks, right‐ and left‐handed helical polymers, transformation of helix into superhelix and 2 : 2 metal‐peptide macrocycles. Further, the metal‐peptide crystals with inherent dipoles of helical peptides gave striking second harmonic generation response. The optical energy upconversion from NIR to red and green light is demonstrated. Overall, we have shown the utilization of short 310‐helices for the construction of diverse metal‐coordinated helical networks and notable non‐linear optical effects.
Diabetic severity and oncological outcomes of colorectal cancer following curative resection: A population‐based cohort study in Taiwan
Authors: Hsu Hsin‐Yin , Chern Yih‐Jong , Hsu Min‐Shu , Yeh Tzu‐Lin , Tsai Ming‐Chieh , Jhuang Jing‐Rong , Hwang Lee‐Ching , Chiang Chun‐Ju , Lee Wen‐Chung , Chien Kuo‐Liong
Published: October 2023

Background

Although diabetes is a poor prognostic factor for colorectal cancer (CRC), whether diabetes severity provides an additional predictive value for CRC prognosis remains unclear. The study aimed to investigate the prognostic differences after curative CRC resection among patients with different diabetic severities.

Methods

This population‐based retrospective cohort study analyzed data registered between 2007 and 2015 in the Cancer Registry Database, which is linked to the National Health Insurance Research Database and National Death Registry. Patients with CRC who underwent curative radical resection for stage I–III disease were evaluated, with their diabetic status subdivided into no diabetes, diabetes without complication, and diabetes with complications. Cox regressions were applied to determine the association between diabetes severity and CRC survival, including overall survival (OS), disease‐free survival (DFS), time to recurrence, and cancer‐specific survival (CSS).

Results

A total of 59,202 patients with CRC were included. Compared with the no diabetes group, the diabetes without complication group has insignificantly worse OS (hazard ratio [HR], 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01–1.09), DFS (HR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.04–1.12), and CSS (HR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.93–1.03), whereas those with complicated diabetes had a significantly higher risk of poor survival (OS: HR, 1.85; 95% CI, 1.78–1.92; DFS: HR, 1.75; 95% CI, 1.69–1.82; CSS: HR, 1.41; 95% CI, 1.33–1.49). Patients with CRC and diabetes also had a higher risk of recurrence than did those without diabetes. Sex and TNM staging were important effect modifiers.

Conclusions

Among patients with CRC who undergo curative resection, the severity of the diabetes is inversely correlated with long‐term outcomes, especially in women and patients in the earlier stages of CRC.

Plain Language Summary

The prognostic impact of diabetes severity in colorectal cancer (CRC) is yet to be clarified.

In this cohort study of 59,202 patients with CRC, compared with patients with CRC and without diabetes, those with uncomplicated diabetes had an insignificantly worse CRC survival, whereas those with complicated diabetes had a significantly higher risk of poor survival.

Multidisciplinary medical care to prevent progression into diabetes with complications is needed to improve survival among patients with CRC and diabetes.
Synthesis of an Ortho‐Functionalized Tetrafluorinated Azobenzene Phosphoramidite for Incorporation into a Tetrafluorinated Azobenzene‐Containing siRNA for Photocontrolled Gene Silencing
Authors: Hammill Matthew L. , Tsubaki Kouta , Kitamura Mitsuru , Okauchi Tatsuo , Desaulniers Jean‐Paul
Published: October 2023

This article presents the detailed synthesis and characterization protocols for an ortho‐functionalized tetrafluorinated azobenzene containing siRNA, which has photoswitchable properties. To design this tetrafluorinated azobenzene scaffold, several synthetic steps are performed to generate a symmetrical tetrafluorinated azobenzene diol. This diol is treated with dimethoxytrityl chloride (DMT‐Cl) to protect one of the alcohols. Next, the DMT‐protected tetrafluorinated monoalcohol is phosphitylated to afford the DMT‐phosphoramidite building block used for solid‐phase synthesis.

This paper also contains the detailed biophysical characterization, biological testing, and photo‐switching protocols of an ortho‐functionalized fluorinated azobenzene containing siRNA (F‐siRNA), which has photoswitchable properties that can be controlled with visible light. First, the F‐siRNA was characterized by annealing the sense and antisense strands together and then measuring the circular dichroism (CD) profile and melting temperature (Tm) of the duplexes. Second, biological testing of the F‐siRNA is performed in cell culture to determine their gene silencing efficacy. Finally, their gene‐silencing activities are measured after exposure to green light to inactivate the F‐siRNA, followed by blue light, which reactivates the F‐siRNA. The F‐siRNA can be kept inactive for up to 72 hr and reactivated at any time within this 72‐hr window. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Upregulation of LINC00501 by H3K27 acetylation facilitates gastric cancer metastasis through activating epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and angiogenesis
Authors: Dou Rongzhang , Han Lei , Yang Chaogang , Fang Yan , Zheng Jinsen , Liang Chenxi , Song Jialin , Wei Chen , Huang Guoquan , Zhong Panyi , Liu Keshu , Peng Qian , Peng Chunwei , Xiong Bin , Wang Shuyi
Published: October 2023

Background

The molecular mechanism of the significant role of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the progression and metastasis of gastric cancer (GC) remains largely elusive. Our objective is to detect overexpressed lncRNA in GC and investigate its role in promoting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and tumour microenvironment remodel.

Methods

LncRNA differential expression profile in GC was analysed using RNA microarrays. The level of LINC00501 was evaluated in both GC patient tissues and GC cell lines by quantitative reverse transcription PCR and large‐scale (n = 304) tissue microarray. To explore the biological role and regulatory driver of LINC00501 in GC, various experimental techniques including Chromatin isolation by RNA purification (ChIRP), RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP), chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assay, dual luciferase assays were performed.

Results

Clinically, it was observed that LINC00501 level was abnormal overexpression in GC tissue and was associated with GC progression and distant metastasis. Gain and loss molecular biological experiments suggested that LINC00501, promoted EMT process and angiogenesis of GC. Mechanically, the enrichment of H3K27 acetylation in LINC00501 promoter region contributed to the increase of LINC00501 in GC. LINC00501 transactivated transcription of SLUG, by recruiting hnRNPR to its promoter. The growth of GC was inhibited both in vitro and in vivo by suppressing the level of LINC00501 using pharmacological intervention from the histone acetyltransferase (HAT) inhibitor ‐C646.

Conclusions

This study suggests that LINC00501 promotes GC progression via hnRNPR/SLUG pathway, which indicates a promising biomarker and target for GC.
Giving feedback using “Speedback”
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: October 2023

In this month's column, let's look at giving and receiving feedback, and one innovative and supportive way to engage your team in giving feedback to one another.