bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Dynamic Phenotypic Heterogeneity in Resistant Escherichia coli under Translation‐Inhibiting Antibiotics
Authors: Zhu Haishuang , Xiong Yixiao , Jiang Zhenlong , Liu Qiong , Wang Jin
Published: January 2024

Understanding the phenotypic heterogeneity of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria following treatment and the transitions between different phenotypes is crucial for developing effective infection control strategies. The study expands upon previous work by explicating chloramphenicol‐induced phenotypic heterogeneities in growth rate, gene expression, and morphology of resistant Escherichia coli using time‐lapse microscopy. Correlating the bacterial growth rate and cspC expression, four interchangeable phenotypic subpopulations across varying antibiotic concentrations are identified, surpassing the previously described growth rate bistability. Notably, bacterial cells exhibiting either fast or slow growth rates can concurrently harbor subpopulations characterized by high and low gene expression levels, respectively. To elucidate the mechanisms behind this enhanced heterogeneity, a concise gene expression network model is proposed and the biological significance of the four phenotypes is further explored. Additionally, by employing Hidden Markov Model fitting and integrating the non‐equilibrium landscape and flux theory, the real‐time data encompassing diverse bacterial traits are analyzed. This approach reveals dynamic changes and switching kinetics in different cell fates, facilitating the quantification of observable behaviors and the non‐equilibrium dynamics and thermodynamics at play. The results highlight the multi‐dimensional heterogeneous behaviors of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria under antibiotic stress, providing new insights into the compromised antibiotic efficacy, microbial response, and associated evolution processes.
Single‐Cell Sequencing Reveals Functional Alterations in Tuberculosis
Authors: Lyu Mengyuan , Xu Gaolian , Zhou Jian , Reboud Julien , Wang Yili , Lai Hongli , Chen Yi , Zhou Yanbing , Zhu Guiying , Cooper Jonathan M. , Ying Binwu
Published: January 2024

Despite its importance, the functional heterogeneity surrounding the dynamics of interactions between mycobacterium tuberculosis and human immune cells in determining host immune strength and tuberculosis (TB) outcomes, remains far from understood. This work now describes the development of a new technological platform to elucidate the immune function differences in individuals with TB, integrating single‐cell RNA sequencing and cell surface antibody sequencing to provide both genomic and phenotypic information from the same samples. Single‐cell analysis of 23 990 peripheral blood mononuclear cells from a new cohort of primary TB patients and healthy controls enables to not only show four distinct immune phenotypes (TB, myeloid, and natural killer (NK) cells), but also determine the dynamic changes in cell population abundance, gene expression, developmental trajectory, transcriptomic regulation, and cell–cell signaling. In doing so, TB‐related changes in immune cell functions demonstrate that the immune response is mediated through host T cells, myeloid cells, and NK cells, with TB patients showing decreased naive, cytotoxicity, and memory functions of T cells, rather than their immunoregulatory function. The platform also has the potential to identify new targets for immunotherapeutic treatment strategies to restore T cells from dysfunctional or exhausted states.
The financial impact of foodborne illness outbreaks at restaurants: Chipotle Mexican Grill
Authors: Kalaitzandonakes Maria , Ellison Brenna , Serra Devesa Maria Teresa
Published: January 2024

As demand for food away from home increases, outbreaks at restaurants become an important source of food‐related illness. In the United States, over 60% of foodborne illness outbreaks occur at restaurants and 97% of outbreaks are limited to a single state. Despite this, we currently know little about restaurant outbreaks and in particular, single‐state outbreaks are not well understood. We use Chipotle Mexican Grill's eight outbreaks (2015–2018) to evaluate the media and stock market responses to both single and multistate outbreaks. Using news and stock market data, we provide evidence that multistate outbreaks brought swift stock price declines and single‐state outbreaks' impact depended on their timing, rather than their severity. Before Chipotle's more well‐known, multistate outbreaks, the firm's single‐state outbreaks brought little reporting and no financial losses, whereas after the multistate food safety events, single‐state events resulted in national media coverage and large financial impacts. Our findings are consistent with the literature on food scares that can result in chronic low‐level anxiety, which can bring about a large resurgence of concern for smaller outbreaks. The lessons learned from Chipotle's case underscore the importance of investment in outbreak prevention. [G14 (Information and Market Efficiency, Event Studies, Insider Trading)].
Ferroelectric Field Effect Transistors–Based Content‐Addressable Storage‐Class Memory: A Study on the Impact of Device Variation and High‐Temperature Compatibility
Authors: Sunil Athira , Rana SK Masud , Lederer Maximilian , Raffel Yannick , Müller Franz , Olivo Ricardo , Hoffmann Raik , Seidel Konrad , Kämpfe Thomas , Chakrabarti Bhaswar , De Sourav
Published: January 2024

Hafnium oxide (HfO2)‐based ferroelectric field effect transistors (FeFETs) revolutionize the emerging nonvolatile memory area, especially with the potential to replace flash memories for several applications. In this article, the suitability of FeFET memories is investigated, especially FeFET‐based content addressable memory (CAM) cells, as storage‐class memory under junction temperature variations. FeFETs with silicon oxynitride interfacial layer are fabricated and characterized at various temperatures, varying from room temperature to 120 °C. Although the memory window, numbers of programmable states, and endurance deteriorate at high temperatures, FeFETs show excellent robustness in data retention, write latency, and read stability at all temperatures, especially for binary operation. Finally, system‐level simulations using a Simulation Program with Integrated Circuit Emphasis software using experimental data are conducted to gauge the robustness of the data‐search operation using the CAM array under different temperatures. Despite temperature‐variation‐induced changes in FeFET devices, it is observed that binary CAM cells perform robust and unerring search operations for storing and searching data at temperatures up to 120 °C.
Expanding the phenotypic spectrum for CDK8‐related disease: A case report
Authors: Comeau Dominique , Belliveau Jenna , Bouhamdani Nadia , Amor Mouna Ben
Published: January 2024

Background

Cyclin‐dependent kinase 8 (CDK8) is part of a regulatory kinase module that regulates the activity of the Mediator complex. The Mediator, a large conformationally flexible protein complex, goes on to regulate RNA polymerase II activity, consequently affecting transcriptional regulation. Thus, inactivating mutations of the genes within the kinase module cause aberrant transcriptional regulation and disease, namely, CDK8‐related intellectual developmental disorder with hypotonia and behavioral abnormalities (IDDHBA).

Case Presentation

We describe, for the first time, a likely pathogenic heterozygous CDK8 variant c.599G>A, p.(Arg200Gln) inherited from the biological mother. The clinical presentation of the child and mother is within the described clinical spectrum for IDDHBA; however, undocumented progressive contractures of the hips and knees as well as scoliosis were also observed in the child. This phenotype was not found in the mother, highlighting a heterogenous presentation for the same variant within the same family. Furthermore, the described clinical presentation may further support the notion of a module‐ or Mediator‐related syndrome with varying clinical presentation.

Conclusion

This case report documents the first inherited case of IDDHBA and expands the phenotypic spectrum for CDK8‐related disease to include undocumented progressive contractures of the hips and knees as well as scoliosis, which may support the notion of a module‐ or Mediator‐related syndrome with varying clinical presentation.
Photoluminescence Quenching of Hydrophobic Ag29 Nanoclusters Caused by Molecular Decoupling during Aqueous Phase Transfer and EmissionRecovery through Supramolecular Recoupling
Authors: Shen Honglei , Xu Jiawei , Fu Ziwei , Wei Xiao , Kang Xi , Shi Wenxiong , Zhu Manzhou
Published: January 2024

Exploiting emissive hydrophobic nanoclusters for hydrophilic applications remains a challenge because of photoluminescence (PL) quenching during phase transfer. In addition, the mechanism underlying PL quenching remains unclear. In this study, the PL‐quenching mechanism was examined by analyzing the atomically precise structures and optical properties of a surface‐engineered Ag29 nanocluster with an all‐around‐carboxyl‐functionalized surface. Specifically, phase‐transfer‐triggered PL quenching was justified as molecular decoupling, which directed an unfixed cluster surface and weakened the radiative transition. Furthermore, emission recovery of the quenched nanoclusters was accomplished by using a supramolecular recoupling approach through the glutathione‐addition‐induced aggregation of cluster molecules, wherein the restriction of intracluster motion and intercluster rotation strengthened the radiative transition of the clusters. The results of this work offer a new perspective on structure‐emission correlations for atomically precise nanoclusters and hopefully provide insight into the fabrication of highly emissive cluster‐based nanomaterials for downstream hydrophilic applications.
Intermediate Color Emission via Nanographenes with Organic Fluorophores
Authors: Arimura Saki , Matsumoto Ikuya , Sekiya Ryo , Haino Takeharu
Published: January 2024

Photoluminescence (PL) color can be tuned by mixing fluorophores emitting the three primary colors in an appropriate ratio. When color tuning is achieved on a single substrate, we can simplify device structures. We demonstrated that nanographenes (NGs), which are graphene fragments with a size of tens of nanometers, could be utilized as carriers of fluorophores. The addition of red‐ and blue‐light‐emitting fluorophores on the edge successfully reproduced the purple light. The relative PL intensities of the fluorophores could be regulated by the excitation wavelength, enabling multicolor emission between blue and red light. Owing to the triphenylamine units of the fluorophores, the NGs showed PL enhancement due to aggregation. This characteristic was valuable for the fabrication of solid polymer materials. Specifically, the functionalized NGs can be dispersed into polyvinylidene difluoride. The resultant polymer films emitted red, blue, and purple color. Our study demonstrated the potential applicability of NGs for fluorophore carriers capable of reproducing intermediate colors of light.
Yolk–shell Ni–Co bimetallic nitride/oxide heterostructures as high‐performance electrode of all‐solid‐state supercapacitor
Authors: Zhu Maiyong , Luo Qiao , Lu Congcong , Liu Lingran
Published: January 2024

Hierarchical core–shell structure is benefit for the fast diffusion and bulk storage of electron/ion while metal nitrides (MN) exhibit metal‐like behavior with excellent conductivity. Herein, nickel cobalt glycerate solid spheres (NiCo‐G) and nickel cobalt glycerate yolk–shell structure (NiCo‐GYS) were successfully synthesized via solvothermal reactions, accompanied by annealing using urea as a cheap and convenient nitrogen source to obtain metal nitride/bimetallic oxide core–shell heterostructure (NiCoNO). Excellent specific capacitance of 1878 F g−1 at 1 A g−1 is displayed by the prepared NiCoNO. Amazingly, the distinct core–shell construction guarantees high stability during the charge/discharge operation. NiCoNO maintains an 83.9% specific capacitance after 5000 cycles at 10 A g−1. Furthermore, the all‐solid‐state hybrid supercapacitor was assembled using NiCoNO cathode and active carbon (AC) anode components. The device has an excellent capacitive retention rate of 81.1% after 5000 cycles at 10 A g−1 and a good energy density of 64.2 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 900 Wh kg−1. A light‐emitting diode (LED) bulb can be lighted for 3 min, indicating the promising practical application prospect of the supercapacitor.
Utilization of ovalbumin and visible light irradiation for efficient and eco‐friendly production of AgNPs composite
Authors: Wang Xue‐Ting , Sun Qi‐Cheng , Chen Liang‐Liang , Zhou Ya‐Qing , Liang Huan , Liu Li‐Yuan , Jin Xiao‐Qian , Ge Wan‐Yi , Tian Yi‐Le , Deng Xudong , Yin Da‐Chuan
Published: January 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are one of the most widely used antimicrobial agents. However, due to the potential problems of environmental pollution and high energy consumption, a green and efficient synthesis strategy of AgNPs is urgently required. Ovalbumin (OVA) is the most abundant protein in egg whites, and its extraction process is simple and productive. This paper reported a new green synthesis method of AgNPs by using OVA as an assistant accompanying with a visible light irradiation. Together with the reduction of silver ions, the uniformly dispersed OVA‐AgNPs nanocomposite could be formed within 30 min under xenon light irradiation by simple mixing AgNO3 and OVA in aqueous solution. The detailed mechanism study showed that tyrosine residue and peptide bonds in OVA played a major role in the reduction and stability of silver ions. In addition, in vitro antibacterial experiments indicated that 10 mg/L of OVA‐AgNPs, the minimum inhibitory concentration, has a good antimicrobial effect on both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, fungi, and some drug‐resistant bacteria species within 4 h of treatment, mainly due to the disruption of the structure of bacterial cell and the balance of reactive oxygen species. This work provides a new way for the green and efficient synthesis of AgNPs and shows good prospects for the applications in the field of biomedical materials and functional nanomaterials.
Flame retardant, mechanical, and hot air aging properties of ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer/ammonium polyphosphate/nano‐silic composite rubber
Authors: Shi Zhiqiang , Yang Yuqing , Yang Bin , Kang Shijun , Zhang Yue , Wang Sen , Miao Jibin , Zheng Zhengzhi , Qian Jiasheng , Xia Ru , Zhang Weiguo , Ke Yuchao
Published: January 2024

In this work, effect of the ratio of nonhalogenated flame retardants (ammonium polyphosphate [APP] and nano‐silica [nano‐SiO2]) on the mechanical, thermal, and flame retardant properties of ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer (EPDM) composite rubber were investigated. Vulcanization characteristics, high temperature compression permanent deformation, thermal oxygen aging, dynamic thermodynamic analysis, thermal stability, cone calorimetry, limiting oxygen index (LOI), horizontal vertical combustion (UL‐94), and scanning electron microscopy were carried out. The experimental results showed that the mechanical properties of the composite rubber decreased with the addition of APP. However, the addition of nano‐SiO2 was found to significantly improve the mechanical properties of the composite rubber when it was incorporated. In terms of flame retardant properties of EPDM composite rubber, the combination of APP and nano‐SiO2 has a synergistic flame retardant effect in comparison to the use of single APP flame retardant. The heat release rate of EPDM composite rubber decreased by 34%, the total heat release decreased by 19%, the LOI increased by 76%, and the flame retardant grade of EPDM composite rubber reached V‐0. The EPDM composite rubber fabricated in the present study showed excellent fire resistance and desirable mechanical properties, which are of practical significance for further expanding the application ranges of EPDM rubbers.
Comparing digital light processing and stereolithography vat polymerization Technologies for antimicrobial 3D printing using silver oxide as an antimicrobial filler
Authors: Shannon Alice , Guttridge Callum , O'Sullivan Aidan , O'Sullivan Kevin J. , Clifford Seamus , Schmalenberger Achim , O'Sullivan Leonard
Published: January 2024

Vat polymerization technology allows filler particles to be incorporated into photosensitive 3D printing resin to improve the properties of the printed material. This method can be used to produce medical devices with an antimicrobial effect that can reduce biofilm formation and reduce infections due to indwelling devices. Metal oxides have the potential to combat antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, further lowering the risk of hospital‐acquired infections. The antimicrobial agent in this study, silver oxide, was evaluated for its antimicrobial effect against gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus epidermidis) as these are the main cause of biofilm formation. The 3D printed samples demonstrated a strong antimicrobial effect at low concentrations of 1 wt.%. Two vat polymerization technologies, stereolithography (SLA) and digital light processing (DLP), were compared for their suitability for producing 3D printed samples with an antimicrobial effect. DLP successfully produced samples with mechanical properties comparable to the base resin, whereas SLA samples had reduced mechanical strength at higher concentrations of silver oxide filler. Neither printing technology nor silver oxide concentration had a statistically significant effect on the mechanical properties of the printed materials.
Assessing robustness of hyperelastic models for describing nonlinearity of the mechanical response for pristine and swollen carbon black filled elastomers
Authors: Boulman H. , Mdarhri A. , Nezili Y. , El Haouzi F. , El Aboudi I. , Brosseau C.
Published: January 2024

We consider the hyperelastic response of semi‐crystalline ethylene–co‐butyl acrylate (EBA) samples filled with carbon black (CB) particles. Such material is structurally complex with its microstructure being characterized by many structural parameters including crosslink density, filler/matrix interfaces, crystallinity, filler network, and chain entanglement which have different degrees of influence on the effective mechanical properties. We evaluate the ability of a number of analytical models to correctly reproduce the non‐linear elastic mechanical response of these samples. We do this by considering either dry samples, or samples which are swollen by a non‐polar solvent (toluene) at equilibrium, and subjected to uniaxial tension at room temperature. As test cases, we focus on six physical models for the purpose of analyzing the stress–strain curves of samples with different cross‐linking densities. Among these frameworks, we show that the Mooney–Rivlin (MR), Ogden, and eight‐chain models accurately describe the stress–strain curves of both dry and swollen CB‐EBA samples. These findings highlight the possibility of attaining a diverse set of mechanical properties of filled polymer samples by tailoring their structural parameters.
Synthesis and properties of poly(ester imide) copolymers from 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride, 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine, and 4‐aminophenyl‐4′‐aminobenzoate
Authors: Zheng Hao , Gong Dirong , Pang Yuanyuan , Tian Chun , Wang Zhen , Yan Jingling
Published: January 2024

A series of poly(ester imide) (PEsI) copolymers were synthesized using 3,3′,4,4′‐biphenyltetracarboxylic dianhydride (4,4′‐BPDA), 2,2′‐bis(trifluoromethyl)benzidine (TFMB), and 4‐aminophenyl‐4′‐aminobenzoate (APAB) as the monomers. Wide‐angle x‐ray diffraction results revealed that the average interchain distances of these polymers ranged from 4.6 to 5.7 Å, increasing with the increase of TFMB contents. PEsI‐0.3 and PEsI‐0.4 exhibited a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 445 and 455°C, respectively, while no distinctive Tg was observed for the PEsI copolymers when the APAB content was >50 mol%. The coefficients of thermal expansion (CTE) of these PEsI copolymers ranged from 3.8 to 24.2 ppm K−1, increasing with the increase of TFMB contents. The PEsI copolymers exhibited a modulus of 5.7–7.8 GPa, a tensile strength of 282–332 MPa, and an elongation‐at‐break of 10.2%–23.3%. Furthermore, these copolymers exhibited a dielectric constant of 2.53–2.76, and a low dissipation factor (Df) of 0.0026–0.0032 at 10 GHz in dry state. Because of their excellent combined properties, these PEsI copolymers are promising candidates as dielectric substrate materials for the applications in next generation flexible printed circuit boards operating at high frequencies.
Thickness‐dependent glass transition temperature of hydroxyethyl cellulose thin films based on dielectric properties
Authors: Ulutas Kemal , Yakut Sahin , Bozoglu Deniz , Tankul Mehtap Irem , Deger Deniz
Published: January 2024

Hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) thin films with a molecular weight of 720,000 g/mol deposited by thermal evaporation in a thickness range of 250, 500, and 750 nm were measured in a frequency range of 1–105 Hz and a temperature range of 233–373 K for dielectric characterization with increments of 10 K. Dielectric results were used to derive and evaluate the glass transition temperature and ductility, which are essential parameters for structural analysis. Results showed that the thickness of HEC thin films was an effective parameter on dielectric and structural properties. Because of the increasing thickness, the dielectric constant has values between 22 and 143 at 1 kHz, and glass transition temperature and ductility change between 211–175 K and 15–20, respectively. Based on the literature and the compatible results, the main effect of these variations could be dead layers and voids in structure. The effect of the dead layer gave an important idea about the adjustability of mechanical properties of HEC thin films depending on the thickness. In this way, it would be possible to use these thin films deposited from HEC with 720,000 g/mol molecular weight, especially in drug delivery, electrophoresis technologies, biomedical devices, and coverage applications.
Foraging habitat suitability of black‐browed albatrosses Thalassarche melanophris wintering in the South‐west Atlantic Ocean: Acknowledging age class to improve conservation management
Authors: Paz Jesica Andrea , Seco Pon Juan Pablo , Krüger Lucas , Favero Marco , Copello Sofía
Published: January 2024

Seabirds, particularly albatrosses, are among the most threatened birds as a result of their continuous exposure to anthropic pressures including interaction with commercial fisheries, climate change and pollution. Several studies that have focused on the spatial distribution of foraging seabirds have identified a certain level of segregation between age classes.

The black‐browed albatross Thalassarche melanophris is the most abundant albatross species in the South‐west Atlantic Ocean and the main pelagic seabird interacting with a range of fishing fleets. There is a considerable lack of knowledge about the biology of immature individuals and on habitat suitability of the species during non‐breeding season (winter).

The aim of this study was to assess the foraging habitat suitability of the black‐browed albatross in the South‐west Atlantic during the austral winter, analysing differences between adults and immatures individuals.

Habitat suitability models were based on foraging locations recorded by 15 satellite transmitters deployed on six adults and nine immature individuals between 2011 and 2015. Remotely sensed oceanographic data were used to characterize suitable foraging habitat for the albatrosses.

Differences were found in foraging habitat suitability by age class, with adult selecting areas located in deeper waters over the continental shelf break as well as in neritic zones under cooler water temperatures, whereas immature individuals foraged chiefly off coastal waters having more moderate temperatures.

Knowing habitat suitability and segregation patterns within‐species is key for the conservation of critical marine habitats given that, by only considering one age class, other important habitats would be neglected and not considered in conservation efforts to mitigate threats such as incidental mortality. It is important to include all age classes when studying patterns of associations with threats, such as fishing activity as a proxy of risk of bycatch, and for the development of Marine Protected Areas.
HSA over BSA: Selective detection of Human Serum Albumin via a naphtho [2,1‐b] furan‐based system
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Anamika , Hazra Rituparna , Roy Durba , Bhattacharya Anupam
Published: January 2024

Human serum albumin (HSA) is an important biomarker that can be used for the early diagnosis of many diseases. In this work, a TICT probe bearing fused naphtho‐furan scaffold (NPNF) was developed and employed in the selective turn‐on sensing of HSA. The probe's selectivity towards HSA was observed using steady‐state fluorescence experiments, with limit of quantitation in micromolar levels. NPNF's capability to exclusively detect HSA over BSA was further studied/rationalized using anisotropy and time‐resolved studies. Molecular docking was used to shed light on the location of NPNF in the subdomain IB of HSA. The practical application of the probe was also demonstrated by the detection of HSA in urine and the HSA‐assisted detection of cerium.
Metal–organic framework‐supported hydroxyapatite (UiO‐66@HAp): an efficient catalyst for the microwave‐assisted transesterification of palm oil
Authors: Kalita Juri , Bharali Linkon , Chetia Bidisha , Chakraborty Debarati , Dhar Siddhartha Sankar
Published: January 2024

Biodiesel has recently emerged as a renewable and environmentally benign fuel substitute for fossil‐derived energy sources. The use of heterogeneous solid catalysts for the generation of biodiesel from biomass‐derived fats and oils is sustainable. Among various reported catalyst supports, metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) have been popular choices for enhancing catalytic activity for biodiesel synthesis because of several outstanding features including porosity, high surface area, adjustable structures, and uniform pore sizes. In this research, the authors synthesized a novel nanocomposite of MOF‐supported hydroxyapatite (UiO‐66@HAp) using a facile impregnation technique and the characterization of the as‐synthesized catalyst was performed by different spectroscopic methods including powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), field emission gun‐scanning electron microscope (FEG‐SEM), energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS), high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and N2 adsorption–desorption techniques. After successful synthesis, the catalytic property of the prepared material was evaluated in the palm oil transesterification into biodiesel. Product formation was confirmed by the 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, 13C NMR, FTIR, and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) of the biodiesel. The influence of different reaction variables such as catalyst dosage, methanol/oil molar ratio, temperature of the reaction, and reaction time was also studied. The outcomes revealed that the maximum biodiesel yield (∼97%) was obtained when 6 wt% catalyst was used with a 6:1 ratio of methanol/oil at 70 °C for 1 h. It was also observed that, even after 5 cycles of reuse, the catalyst was capable of producing significant amounts of biodiesel (over 90%). The results suggest that the synthesized novel catalyst holds a promising future in the sustainable production of biodiesel.
Consenting rather than choosing. A qualitative study on overseas patients' decision to undergo hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Sarradon‐Eck Aline , Franchina Loreley , Arnault Yolande , Le Corroller Anne‐Gaëlle , Zunic Patricia , Marino Patricia
Published: January 2024

Objective

Reasons for patients' acceptance of the allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) proposed and how their decision may be affected by the long distances involved have not been sufficiently investigated so far. We therefore conducted a qualitative study to identify the factors involved in overseas patients' decision to accept allo‐HSCT.

Methods

In‐depth semi‐directive interviews were conducted with overseas allo‐grafted patients (n = 22), as well as one non‐consenting patient and their caregivers (n = 24). Interviews were analyzed taking an inductive thematic approach.

Results

Respondents stated that their decision to undergo the transplantation was constrained by their feeling of being in a therapeutic impasse, the need for a survival strategy, the need to survive for their family's sake, family and doctors' pressures, and the feeling of being managed. The following factors favoring patients' acceptance were the medical information received, their faith, having a family donor, peer testimonies, and positive representations of the transplantation. Factors against patients' acceptance were geographical distance from home to the transplant center, apprehension of protective isolation, fear of dying, and representations of the graft.

Conclusions

These factors, such as patient's personal values and representations, need to be weighed up in order to adapt the information exchanged accordingly. Efforts are required to relieve patients' social isolation and improve the means of providing family support.
In‐Bridge Stereochemistry: A Determinant of Stapled Peptide Conformation and Activity
Authors: Zhang Jingyi , Dong Suwei
Published: January 2024

Peptide side chain stapling has been proven to be an effective strategy for fine‐tuning peptide properties. This innovative approach leads to the creation of stapled peptides characterized by stabilized α‐helical conformations, enhanced protein‐binding affinity, improved cell permeability, superior enzymatic stability, and numerous other advantages. Extensive research has explored the impact of various stapling bridges on the properties of these peptides, with limited investigation into the influence of bridge chirality, until very recently. In this concise review, we provide a brief overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the stereochemistry within the bridges of stapled peptides, offering insights into the potential applications of chiral bridges in the design and development of stapled peptides.
Cytomegalovirus colitis in immunocompetent hosts: A case report and literature review
Authors: Salehi Mohammadreza , Shafiee Nahid , Moradi Maryam
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Rectal bleeding can manifest cytomegalovirus (CMV) colitis even in immunocompetent patients, which can be cured with ganciclovir treatment.

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is an opportunistic virus widely affecting immunocompromised patients. Different manifestations varied from asymptomatic in immunocompetent individuals to end organ involvement, such as colitis in those with immunodeficiency. Despite the rarity of CMV colitis in immunocompetent hosts, we should consider it when the other conditions have been excluded. In this article, we have described a case of CMV colitis in an immunocompetent host and have performed a literature review on this entity. An immunocompetent 70‐year‐old female was admitted to the hospital with recurrent rectal bleeding. After various evaluations including laboratory analysis, stool examination, and colonoscopy, we have detected superficial lesions. Pathology and polymerase chain reaction reports favored CMV involvement. Her condition continues to improve after intravenous ganciclovir infusion. Rectal bleeding can manifest CMV colitis even in immunocompetent patients, which can be cured with ganciclovir treatment.
Ventricular silent rupture leading to sudden death: Navigating diagnostic challenges in a resource‐constraint setting
Authors: Pallangyo Angela , Pyuza Jeremia J. , Nkya Gilbert , Amsi Patrick , Andongolile Alice , Makata Ahmed M. , Mremi Alex
Published: January 2024

Key Clinical Message

Ventricular myocardial rupture is a rare complication of myocardial infarction. It occurs within hours to weeks after an infarction. Mortality is high. Antemortem diagnosis is a challenge in low‐resource settings, leading to potential misdiagnosis.

Left ventricular myocardial rupture is a potentially fatal yet common complication in acute myocardial infarction patients. Rupture can occur as early as hours after an infarction. However, rupture may also occur later in the first week in the setting of myocardial necrosis and neutrophilic infiltration. Patients may survive several days to weeks before rupture occurs, and cardiac tamponade may present subacutely with a slow or repetitive clinical course. Sudden death can be attributed to ventricular rupture, more commonly during this time frame. Myocardial rupture can also occur as a result of trauma, infections, or cancer. Mortality is exceedingly high if surgical intervention is delayed. In most patients, myocardial rupture manifests as a catastrophic event within days of a first, small, uncomplicated acute myocardial infarction. Acute onset of shortness of breath, chest pain, shock, diaphoresis, unexplained emesis, cool and clammy skin, and syncope may herald the onset of ventricular septal rupture after acute myocardial infarction. Sudden death from myocardial rupture during acute myocardial infarction in patients with no apparent previous symptoms of myocardial ischemia represents a challenge for medical examiners, law enforcement officers, and society as a whole. An autopsy is critical for establishing the cause of death. We present the case of a 54‐year‐old male whose body was found beside the road after a trivial quarrel a day before. Further medical information about the deceased was not available. The preliminary cause of death was presumed to be traumatic. No evidence of trauma was seen during the autopsy. Massive pericardial blood collection compressing the heart and concealed left ventricular myocardial rupture were noted. Histopathological examination of the heart demonstrated myocardial infarction with a tear associated with bleeding that was contained in the pericardial sac. We ruled cardiac tamponade as the cause of death due to an infarcted myocardial rupture. Antemortem diagnosis of myocardial rupture can be challenging in low‐resource settings, leading to potential misdiagnosis and negative impacts such as community conflicts.
Research Advances in Rare Earth Oxide‐Based Catalysts for Soot Combustion
Authors: Ma Yaxiao , Guo Haoqi , Xiong Jing , Xu Linsheng , Wei Yuechang
Published: January 2024

Environmental issues exert a significant influence on the human life. Soot particles have attracted attention as a major source of pollution. Significant progress has been made in the research of efficient soot combustion catalysts. The distinctive bonding properties on the 4 f orbitals of rare earth elements exhibit excellent catalytic performance for soot combustion. This comprehensive review explores recent advancements in the design of catalysts based on rare earth oxides, with a specific focus on various catalytic materials (La‐based, Ce‐based, Pr‐based and other rare earth elements), synthesis methods, catalyst morphology, catalytic performance and the intricate mechanisms governing their performance in catalytic soot combustion. The activity and selectivity of different rare earth catalysts in various reaction atmospheres are also summarized in the article. Finally, the challenges associated with rare earth oxide‐based catalysts and their potential for future development in the soot combustion are highlighted. This review establishes a fundamental basis for the further design of catalytic materials that exhibit enhanced efficiency and stability.
High Entropy Materials for Reversible Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Zhao Jing , Gao Shang , Wei Haoming , Wei Zhixuan , Du Fei
Published: January 2024

High entropy materials have garnered considerable attention recently as a class of materials with intricate stoichiometry, exhibiting high levels of entropy. These materials hold great promise as candidates for electrochemical energy storage devices due to their ideal regulation, good mechanical and physical properties and attractive synergy effects of multi‐elements. In this perspective, we provide an overview of high entropy materials used as anodes, cathodes, and electrolytes in rechargeable batteries, with insight into the materials’ structure‐property relationship and the influence on battery performance. Additionally, we offer insights into the future perspectives of high entropy materials, emphasizing their crucial role in next‐generation batteries.
CBr4 as a Mild Oxidant‐Enabled Oxidation of a sp3 C−H Bond: A Facile Synthesis of the Persistent Iminium Salts of Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Chen Yuqin , Zhang Shuwei , Li Yuemei , Li Tong , Ma Qiyuan , Yuan Yu , Jia Xiaodong
Published: January 2024

Using CBr4 as a mild oxidant, the direct C−H bond oxidation of N‐aryltetrahydroisoquinolines was achieved, giving a series of the corresponding iminium salts in high yields under metal‐ and photo‐free reaction conditions. This reaction is superior in high yields and good functional group tolerance, and the late‐stage derivatization showed that these iminium salts can readily be applied to the synthesis of the functionalized THIQs.
Pyridine Iodine(I) Cations: Kinetic Trapping as a Sulfonate Complexes
Authors: Puttreddy Rakesh , Kumar Parveen , Rissanen Kari
Published: January 2024

Seven pyridine iodine(I) sulfonate complexes were prepared and isolated at low temperatures and characterized by X‐ray diffraction analysis. The inherently instable pyridine iodine(I) cations are stabilized by an oxygen of sulfonate anions via the I⋅⋅⋅O halogen bond. In these complexes, the iodine atom of the pyridine iodine(I) cation acts as an electron acceptor and the sulfonate oxygen as the electron donor. These complexes are stable enough in the crystalline state, yet decompose rapidly under ambient conditions, also being unstable in solution. The (pyridine)N−I bond lengths [2.140(3)–2.197(2) Å] and the I⋅⋅⋅O halogen bonds [2.345(6)–2.227(3) Å] are analogous to (imide)N−I⋅⋅⋅O−N‐pyridine uncharged halogen‐bonded complexes formed from N‐haloimides and pyridine N‐oxides, thus confirming the existence of elusive pyridine iodine(I) cation.
Reduced mechanisms for methanol oxidation under hydrothermal flames using a directed relation graph with sensitivity analysis and error propagation
Authors: Rong Weiqing , Yan Shijing , Zhang Fengming , Qiu Yuxin
Published: January 2024

A revised detailed mechanism (RDM) including 173 species and 1011 reactions for methanol oxidation under hydrothermal flames is developed via modifying a methanol gas‐phase combustion mechanism with pressure and thermodynamic corrections and validated with experimental data. Different skeletal mechanisms are generated via the directed relation graph (DRG), the DRG with error propagation (DRGEP), the DRG with sensitivity analysis (DRGSA), and the DRGEP with sensitivity analysis methods. Although the skeletal mechanisms have different reaction paths, the evolutions of the main species in the RDM are generally reproduced. The most compact mechanism of 12 species and 35 reactions is obtained via the DRGSA method with an error of 7.59%. The temperatures of hydrothermal flames predicted from the skeletal mechanisms with different reduction methods agree well with those from the RDM within most operating ranges except the 12‐species mechanism under hypoxic conditions. The increase in the reduction degree increases the error of the ignition delay time, while the reduced mechanisms have better adaptability in predicting the ignition delay time at higher preheating temperatures. The increases of preheating temperature and methanol concentration decrease the error in the prediction of the laminar flame speed with the reduced mechanisms. Moreover, the mechanisms with different reduction degrees have little effect on the extinction temperature, with an error of 4–8°C.
Experimental study on CO2 capture using 2‐(2‐aminoethylamino)ethanol/N,N‐diethyl‐ethanolamine/sulfolane phase‐change absorbents
Authors: Meng Wan , Xiao Lingyu , Wang Liwang , Hu Yaoming , Ding Chuanbao , Jing Jiaxin , Ma Liang
Published: January 2024

Chemical absorption is currently the most mature carbon capture technology, but it has high energy consumption. Phase change absorbents have great potential for reducing energy consumption. In this paper, an attempt is made to combine the commonly used organic phase splitter and physical phase splitter to explore the comprehensive performance of the absorber under the joint action of the two. Hydroxyethyl ethylenediamine (AEEA) was used as the active amine, N,N‐diethylethanolamine (DEEA) as the organic phase splitter, and sulfolane as the physical phase splitter. Different molar ratios of the three reagents were carried out to screen out the combinations with superior split‐phase effects, and the absorption and desorption characteristics of the combination of AEEA/DEEA/sulfolane were investigated in terms of absorption performance, desorption performance, cycling performance, and physical parameters. The results showed that the combination of 2 M AEEA/1 M DEEA/4 M sulfolane was the most advantageous, with an absorption load up to 2.17 mol/L, a volume of the rich phase accounting for about 64%, an initial absorption rate up to 0.1756 mol · L−1 · min−1, a desorption rate of 75.5% at the desorption temperature of 393.15 K, and the rich‐phase viscosity had a great advantage over the other molar ratio combinations. The changes of the components before and after phase separation were analyzed by 13C NMR to investigate the phase separation mechanism, and the five repeated cycle tests showed that the absorption load was stable, the desorption capacity was strong, and the phase separation performance was good.
Comparative study of degradation of pharmaceutical and personal care products in wastewater by advanced oxidation processes: Fenton, UV/H2O2, UV/TiO2
Authors: Ustun Odabasi Sevde , Buyukgungor Hanife
Published: January 2024

In conventional wastewater treatment plants, micropollutants mix with the aquatic environment because they cannot be removed entirely due to their nonbiodegradable structure. Advanced oxidation processes can be considered an alternative solution to this problem. In this study, five different pharmaceutical and personal care products, carbamazepine, diclofenac, ibuprofen, paracetamol, and triclosan, which are commonly found in aquatic environments, were selected as target pollutants. The removal of these target pollutants was investigated using advanced oxidation methods such as the Fenton and UV processes (UV, UV/H2O2, and UV/TiO2). The feasibility of processes in terms of cost was investigated. In the study, both initial and final pharmaceutical concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry to accurately calculate removal efficiency. It has been determined that processes other than the UV process have removal efficiency >99.9%. The UV process showed removal efficiency of 40% for carbamazepine, 90% for diclofenac, 85% for ibuprofen, 86% for paracetamol and 85% for triclosan. Among the processes with high removal efficiency, the Fenton process has been integrated into wastewater treatment plants and has been shown to be the most suitable system in terms of both performance and cost in solving the micropollutant problem.
Selective CO2 Photoreduction Enabled by Water‐stable Cu‐based Metal‐organic Framework Nanoribbons
Authors: Zhao. Yuan , Chen Runhua , Luo Jingchen , Zhu Juncheng , Wu Yang , Qiao Panzhe , Yan Wensheng , Pan Yang , Zhu Junfa , Zu Xiaolong , Sun Yongfu
Published: January 2024

The goal of photocatalytic CO2 reduction system is to achieve near 100 % selectivity for the desirable product with reasonably high yield and stability. Here, two‐dimensional metal‐organic frameworks are constructed with abundant and uniform monometallic active sites, aiming to be an emerged platform for efficient and selective CO2 reduction. As an example, water‐stable Cu‐based metal–organic framework nanoribbons with coordinatively unsaturated single CuII sites are first fabricated, evidenced by X‐ray diffraction patterns and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy. In situ Fourier‐transform infrared spectra and Gibbs free energy calculations unravel the formation of the key intermediate COOH* and CO* is an exothermic and spontaneous process, whereas the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction is endothermic and non‐spontaneous, which accounts for the selective CO2 reduction. As a result, in an aqueous solution containing 1 mol L−1 KHCO3 and without any sacrifice reagent, the water‐stable Cu‐based metal–organic framework nanoribbons exhibited an average CO yield of 82 μmol g−1 h−1 with the selectivity up to 97 % during 72 h cycling test, which is comparable to other reported photocatalysts under similar conditions.
2‐step lignin‐first catalytic fractionation with bifunctional Pd/ß‐zeolite catalyst in a flow‐through reactor
Authors: Kramarenko A. , Uslu A. , Etit D. , D'Angelo F. Neira
Published: January 2024

This work demonstrates an additive and hydrogen‐free 2‐step lignin‐first fractionation in flow‐through. First, solvolytic delignification renders lignin liquors with its native chemical structure largely intact; and second, ß‐zeolite catalytic depolymerization of these liquors leads to similar monomer yields as the corresponding 1‐step fractionation process. Higher delignification temperatures lead to slightly lower ß−O−4 content in the solvated lignin, but does not affect significantly the monomer yield, so a higher temperature was overall preferred as it promotes faster delignification. Deposition of Pd on ß‐zeolite resulted in a bifunctional hydrogenation/dehydration catalyst, tested during the catalytic depolymerization of solvated lignin with and without hydrogen addition. Pd/ß‐zeolite displays synergistic effects (compared to the Pd/γ‐Al2O3 and ß‐zeolite tested individually and as a mixed bed), resulting in higher monomer yield. This is likely caused by increased acidity and the proximity between the metallic and acid active sites. Furthermore, different ß‐zeolite with varying SAR and textural properties were studied to shed light onto the effect of acidity and porosity in the stabilization of lignin monomers. While some of the catalysts showed stable performance, characterization of the spent catalyst reveals Al leaching (causing acidity loss and changes in textural properties), and some degree of coking and Pd sintering.
Rapid Lignin Thermal Property Prediction through Attenuated Total Reflectance‐Infrared Spectroscopy and Chemometrics
Authors: Riddell Luke A. , Lindner Jean‐Pierre B. , de Peinder Peter , Meirer Florian , Bruijnincx Pieter C. A.
Published: January 2024

To expedite the valorisation of lignin as a sustainable component in materials applications, rapid and generally available analytical methods are essential to overcome the bottleneck of lignin characterisation. Where features of a lignin's chemical structure have previously been found to be predicted by Partial Least Squares (PLS) regression models built on Infrared (IR) data, we now show for the first time that this approach can be extended to prediction of the glass transition temperature (Tg), a key physicochemical property. This methodology is shown to be convenient and more robust for prediction of Tg than prediction through empirically derived relationships (e. g., Flory‐Fox). The chemometric analysis provided root mean squared errors of prediction (RMSEP) as low as 10.0 °C for a botanically, and a process‐diverse set of lignins, and 6.2 °C for kraft‐only samples. The PLS models could separately predict both the Tg as well as the degree of allylation (%allyl) for allylated lignin fractions, which were all derived from a single lignin source. The models performed exceptionally well, delivering RMSEP of 6.1 °C, and 5.4 %, respectively, despite the conflicting influences of increasing molecular weight and %allyl on Tg. Finally, the method provided accurate determinations of %allyl with RMSEP of 5.2 %.