bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coordination Stabilization of Fe by Porphyrin‐Intercalated NiFe‐LDH Under Industrial‐Level Alkaline Conditions for Long‐Term Electrocatalytic Water Oxidation
Authors: Hu Yihang , Shen Tianyang , Wu Zhaohui , Song Ziheng , Sun Xiaoliang , Hu Siyu , Song Yu‐Fei
Published: September 2024

The durable and economic electrocatalysts with high current density under industrial alkaline conditions are critical for advancing the industrial production of hydrogen energy by water electrolysis. The industrial highly alkaline electrolyte exacerbates the Fe dissolution of NiFe layered double hydroxide (NiFe‐LDH), leading to the dramatic degradation of stability and activity. The NiFe‐LDH intercalated Tetrakis(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphyrin (TCPP) (NiFe‐TCPP), 1,4,7,10‐Tetraazacyclododecane‐1,4,7,10‐tetraacetic acid (DOTA) (NiFe‐DOTA) and CO32− (NiFe‐CO3) are fabricated respectively for electrocatalytic water oxidation under industrial alkaline conditions. In 10 m KOH, compared to NiFe‐DOTA (335.0 mV) and NiFe‐CO3 (499.2 mV), the resultant NiFe‐TCPP exhibits the lowest overpotentials of 290.2 mV at 1000 mA cm−2. The NiFe‐TCPP also operates continuously for 1000 h at 500 mA cm−2 with near‐zero attenuation. The theoretical and experimental studies reveal that the strong coordination between conjugated carboxylate ligand TCPP and Fe of the laminate inhibits the Fe leaching by increasing the dissolution energy barriers to 4.29 eV and improving the self‐healing ability, thus enhancing the stability. Furthermore, the charge redistribution induced by the strong coordination optimizes the d‐band centers (‐2.81 eV) and decreases the reaction energy barriers (1.47 eV), thereby increasing the catalytic activity.
Automated Microfluidics‐Assisted Hydrogel‐Based Wet‐Spinning for the Biofabrication of Biomimetic Engineered Myotendinous Junction
Authors: Volpi Marina , Paradiso Alessia , Walejewska Ewa , Gargioli Cesare , Costantini Marco , Swieszkowski Wojciech
Published: September 2024

The muscle‐tendon junction (MTJ) plays a pivotal role in efficiently converting the muscular contraction into a controlled skeletal movement through the tendon. Given its complex biomechanical intricacy, the biofabrication of such tissue interface represents a significant challenge in the field of musculoskeletal tissue engineering. Herein, a novel method to produce MTJ‐like hydrogel yarns using a microfluidics‐assisted 3D rotary wet‐spinning strategy is developed. Optimization of flow rates, rotational speed, and delivery time of bioinks enables the production of highly compartmentalized scaffolds that recapitulate the muscle, tendon, and the transient MTJ‐like region. Additionally, such biofabrication parameters are validated in terms of cellular response by promoting an optimal uniaxial alignment for both muscle and tendon precursor cells. By sequentially wet‐spinning C2C12 myoblasts and NIH 3T3 fibroblasts, a gradient‐patterned cellular arrangement mirroring the intrinsic biological heterogeneity of the MTJ is successfully obtained. The immunofluorescence assessment further reveals the localized expression of tissue‐specific markers, including myosin heavy chain and collagen type I/III, which demonstrate muscle and tenogenic tissue maturation, respectively. Remarkably, the muscle‐tendon transition zone exhibits finger‐like projection of the multinucleated myotubes in the tenogenic compartment, epitomizing the MTJ signature architecture.
Photoconvertible and Photoactivatable Perylene BisImide Based on Photocyclization
Authors: Berruyer Valentine Le , Perrier Aurelie , Collot Mayeul
Published: September 2024

Photomodulable fluorophores constitute advanced materials as they possess the ability to modify their photophysical properties upon photoirradiation. A new mechanism of photoconversion is recently established, called Directed Photooxidation Induced Conversion based on the coupling of fluorophores with Aromatic Singlet oxygen Reactive Moieties (ASORMs). In this work, The Directed Photooxidation Induced Conversion (DPIC) mechanism is intended to be applied to Perylene BisImide (PBI) due to its appealing photophysical properties. The experimental results showed that coupling two ASORMs to the PBI core, here furan and pyrrole, led to impressive photomodulable fluorophores. While PBI‐F exhibited a photoconversion of 100 nm shift, PBI‐P displayed an 80‐fold fluorescence intensity enhancement upon photoactivation. Analysis of the photoproducts showed that the conversion do not involve an addition of singlet oxygen on the ASORM. Instead, photoconversion occurred through efficient successive photocyclizations. Finally, intracellular vesicles are successfully photoconverted by means of endocytosed PLGA‐polymer nanoparticles loaded with PBI‐F. This study highlights the unique capability of furan‐ and pyrrole‐conjugated fluorophores to enable advanced optical materials with phototransformation properties.
Collinear Spin Current Induced by Artificial Modulation of Interfacial Symmetry
Authors: Li Zhuoyi , Zhang Zhe , Wei Mengjie , Lu Xianyang , Li Taotao , Zhou Jian , Yan Yu , Du Jun , Wang Xinran , Li Yao , He Liang , Wu Jing , Gao Yang , Zhang Rong , Xu Yongbing
Published: September 2024

Current induced spin–orbit torque (SOT) manipulation of magnetization is pivotal in spintronic devices. However, its application for perpendicular magnetic anisotropy magnets, crucial for high‐density storage and memory devices, remains nondeterministic and inefficient. Here, a highly efficient approach is demonstrated to generate collinear spin currents by artificial modulation of interfacial symmetry, achieving 100% current‐induced field‐free SOT switching in CoFeB multilayers with perpendicular magnetization on stepped Al2O3 substrates. This field‐free switching is primarily driven by the out‐of‐plane anti‐damping SOT generated by the planar spin Hall effect (PSHE), resulting from reduced interface symmetry due to orientation‐determined steps. Microscopic theoretical analysis confirms the presence and significance of PSHE in this process. Notably, this method for generating out‐of‐plane spin polarization along the collinear direction of the spin‐current with artificial modulation of interfacial symmetry, overcomes inherent material symmetry constraints. These findings provide a promising avenue for universal control of spin–orbit torque, addressing challenges associated with low crystal symmetry and highlighting its great potential to advance the development of energy‐efficient spintronic devices technology.
Associated Anomalies in Radial Ray Deficiency
Authors: Stoll Claude , Alembik Yves , Roth Marie‐Paule
Published: September 2024

Radial ray deficiency (RRD) may be isolated, without other congenital anomalies or co‐occurring with other, non‐RRD, congenital anomalies. The prevalence and the types of co‐occurring anomalies are variable in the reported studies. The aim of this study was to obtain the prevalence and the types of co‐occurring congenital anomalies among cases with RRD in a geographically well‐characterized population of 387,067 consecutive births in northeastern France from 1979 to 2007 including live births, stillbirths and terminations of pregnancy. During the study period 83 cases with RRD were ascertained (prevalence of 2.14 per 10,000 births), 63 cases (75.9%) had co‐occurring anomalies. Cases with co‐occurring anomalies were divided into chromosomal anomalies (18 cases, 22%), syndromic conditions (syndromes and associations, 23 cases, 28%), and multiple congenital anomalies (MCA) (22 cases, 26%). Trisomies 18 and autosomal deletions were the most common chromosomal abnormalities. Thrombocytopenia absent radii syndrome, VACTERL association, Fanconi anemia, Roberts syndrome, and Holt‐Oram syndrome were the most common syndromic conditions. Anomalies in the musculoskeletal, the cardiovascular, the urinary, and the orofacial system were the most common co‐occurring anomalies in cases with MCA. As cases with RRD have often co‐occurring congenital anomalies, a multidisciplinary checkup of these cases is recommended.
Hospital Visits Associated With Oral Infections in Patients With Neurofibromatosis Type 1: A Register‐Based Analysis
Authors: Reinhold Vivian , Kallionpää Roope A. , Valtanen Mikko , Auranen Kari , Syrjänen Stina , Peltonen Sirkku , Peltonen Juha
Published: September 2024

Various forms of oral involvement have been reported in patients with neurofibromatosis 1 (NF1). Here, we analyze register‐based associations between NF1 and hospital visits related to oral infections. The Finnish NF1 cohort encompasses all individuals with verified NF1 who have visited the Finnish central and university hospitals in 1987–2011. The Finnish Care Register for Health Care allowed the follow‐up of 1349 individuals with NF1, their 1894 siblings without NF1, and 13,870 matched controls for diagnoses related to oral infections in 1998–2014. We observed clearly increased hazards for hospital visits associated with dental caries (ICD‐10 K02; NF1 vs. controls, hazard ratio [HR] 4.42, 95% CI 3.23–6.04), diseases of pulp and periapical tissues (K04; HR 3.85, 95% CI 2.68–5.54), and gingivitis and periodontal diseases (K05; HR 3.63, 95% CI 2.37–5.56). In contrast, hospital visits related to diseases of salivary glands (K11), and stomatitis and related lesions (K12) did not show significantly increased hazard in NF1 compared with the controls or the non‐NF1 siblings. In conclusion, the findings suggest that hospital visits related to oral infections are relatively common among individuals with NF1. The results highlight the need for early detection, proactive prevention, and timely treatment of oral infections in individuals with NF1.
Investigating Metastable Gelation Behavior of Coumarin‐Derived β‐Enaminone‐Boron Difluoride Complexes
Authors: Manjappa Kiran B. , Saravanan Velu , Yang Ding‐Yah
Published: September 2024

Gelation behavior was unearthed while investigating the photophysical properties of β‐enaminones and their difluoroboron complexes. To perform a systematic investigation, a library of β‐enaminone's difluoroboron complexes was prepared to examine their gelation behavior in organic solvents. Among the prepared compounds, the N‐butyl amine‐substituted β‐enamino diketone was found to exhibit metastable gelation properties in a mixed solvent system (methylene chloride and hexane). Our studies suggest that the presence of N‐butylamine moiety along with N,N‐dimethylamino substituent at difluoroboron enaminones is indispensable in imparting the metastable gelation behavior.
Solid‐Liquid‐Gas Three‐Phase Indirect Electrolysis Enabled by Affinity Auxiliary Imparted Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wang Yi‐Rong , Yue Ming , Liu Gang , Zhang Jia‐Li , Li Qi , Shi Jing‐Wen , Weng Jia‐Yong , Li Run‐Han , Chen Yifa , Li Shun‐Li , Lan Ya‐Qian
Published: September 2024

The design of efficient heterogeneous redox mediators with favorable affinity to substrate and electrolyte are much desired yet still challenging for the development of indirect electrolysis system. Herein, for the first time, we have developed a solid–liquid–gas three‐phase indirect electrolysis system based on a covalent organic framework (Dha−COF−Cu) as heterogeneous redox mediator for S−S coupling reaction. Dha−COF−Cu with the integration of high porosity, nanorod morphology, abundant hydroxyl groups and active Cu sites is much beneficial for the adsorption/activation of thiols, uniform dispersion and high wettability in electrolyte, and efficient interfacial electron transfer. Notably, Dha−COF−Cu as solid‐phase redox mediator exhibits excellent electrocatalytic efficiency for the formation of value‐added liquid‐phase S−S bond product (yields up to 99 %) coupling with the generation of gas‐phase product of H2 (~1.40 mmol g−1 h−1), resulting in a powerful three‐phase indirect electrolysis system. This is the first work about COFs that can be applied in three‐phase indirect electrolysis system, which might promote the development of porous crystalline materials in this field.
Boron‐Doped Single‐Molecule van der Waals Diode
Authors: Zou Yu‐Ling , Sun Wenting , Xun Jiao , Liang Qing‐Man , Chen Lichuan , Diao Tong‐Ruo , Shi Jia , Wu De‐Yin , Dou Chuandong , Hong Wenjing , Tian Zhong‐Qun , Yang Yang
Published: September 2024

Single‐molecule diode was the first proposed device in molecular electronics. Despite the great efforts and advances over 50 years, the reported rectification ratios, the most critical parameter of a diode, remain moderate for the single‐molecule diode. Herein, we report an approach to achieve a larger rectification ratio by adopting the combined strategies of p‐type boron doping, the single‐layer graphene nodes, and the van der Waals layer‐by‐layer architecture. Measured current–voltage curves showed one of the as‐fabricated single‐molecule diodes hit an unprecedented large rectification ratio of 457 at ±1 V. Break junction operations and spectroscopic measurements revealed the three‐atom‐thick configuration of the single‐molecule diodes. With the experimental and theoretical calculation results, we demonstrated the doped boron atoms induced holes to redistribute the electron density, making the asymmetric coupling at positive and negative biases, and the van der Waals interaction promoted asymmetric coupling and significantly boosted diode performance.
An Expedient Route to Bio‐Based Polyacrylate Alternatives with Inherent Post‐Chemical Modification and Degradation Capabilities by Organic Catalysis for Polymerization of Muconate Esters
Authors: Dardé Thomas , Diomar Émilie , Schultze Xavier , Taton Daniel
Published: September 2024

The quest for polymers that would be at the same time bio‐based and degradable after usage, in addition to offering chemical post‐modification options, remains a daunting challenge in contemporary polymer science. Despite advances in polymer chemistry, attempts at controlling the chain‐growth polymerization of muconate esters remain unexplored. Here we show that dialkyl muconates can be rapidly polymerized by organocatalyzed group transfer polymerization (O‐GTP). O‐GTP is conducted to completion at room temperature in toluene within a few minutes, using 1‐ethoxy‐1‐(trimethylsiloxy)‐1,3‐butadiene (ETSB) as initiator and 1‐tert‐butyl‐4,4,4‐tris(dimethylamino)‐2,2‐bis[tris(dimethylamino)‐phosphoranylidenamino]‐2
5,4
5 catenadi(phosphazene) (P4‐t‐Bu) as catalyst. Chain extension experiments and synthesis of all muconate‐type block copolymers can also be achieved. Furthermore, polymuconates are amenable to facile post‐polymerization modification reactions. This is showcased through the hydrolysis of the ester side chains leading to well‐defined poly(muconic acid), and by epoxidation of the C=C double bonds of the main chain. Last but not least, these internal alkene groups can be selectively cleaved by ozonolysis, demonstrating the upcyclability of polymuconates under oxidative conditions. This work demonstrates that polymuconates constitute a unique platform of bio‐based polymers, easily modifiable in addition to being chemically degradable under user friendly experimental conditions.
Orderly Coating of Bilayer Polymer to Tailor Microenvironment for Efficient C−N Coupling Toward Highly Selective Urea Electrosynthesis
Authors: Wang Zhichao , Wang Mengfan , Cheng Qiyang , He Yanzheng , Liu Sisi , Liu Jie , Yuan Xiaolei , Huan Yunfei , Qian Tao , Yan Chenglin
Published: September 2024

Electrosynthesis of urea from co‐reduction of carbon dioxide and nitrate is a promising alternative to the industrial process. However, the overwhelming existence of proton and nitrate as well as the insufficient supply of CO2 at the reaction interface usually result in complex product distributions from individual nitrate reduction or hydrogen evolution, instead of C−N coupling. In this work, we systematically optimize this microenvironment through orderly coating of bilayer polymer to specifically tackle the above challenges. Polymer of intrinsic microporosity is chosen as the upper polymer to achieve physical sieving, realizing low water diffusivity for suppressing hydrogen evolution and high gas permeability for smooth mass transfer of CO2 at the same time. Polyaniline with abundant basic amino groups is capable of triggering chemical interaction with acidic CO2 molecules, so that is used as the underlying polymer to serve as CO2 concentrator and facilitate the carbon source supply for C−N coupling. Within this tailored microenvironment, a maximum urea generation yield rate of 1671.6 μg h−1 mg−1 and a high Faradaic efficiency of 75.3 % are delivered once coupled with efficient electrocatalyst with neighboring active sites, which is among the most efficient system of urea electrosynthesis.
Comprehensive Investigation of Organotin(IV) Complexes Derived From a Novel Schiff Base: Synthesis, Characterization, Antioxidant, ADME Profiling, and In Vitro Biological Evaluation
Authors: Abbas Kashif , Zahid Ayesha , Parveen Bushra , Amin Iqra , Hussain Shabbir , Ahmed Faiz , Munawar Khurram Shahzad
Published: September 2024

Six organotin(IV) complexes (1–6) were synthesized, following the general formulas as R2Sn(L)Cl and R3Sn(L), have been reported. In these complexes, L represents a Schiff base prepared by the reaction of phenylhydrazine with 5‐bromo‐2‐hydroxybenzaldehyde, and R = Me, n‐Bu, Ph. Various analytical techniques were employed to characterize and determine the structure of the newly synthesized compounds. The techniques, including the elemental analysis, molar conductivity measurements, UV–visible, FT‐IR, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. Spectroscopic analysis suggested that the ligand (4‐bromo‐2‐[(2‐phenylhydrazinylidene)meth‐yl]phenol) (HL) coordinates with the tin (Sn) metal through its phenolic oxygen (O) and azomethine nitrogen (N) atoms. Molar conductivity measurements indicated that all the synthesized compounds are nonelectrolytes. The percent CHN analysis data also corroborates the spectroscopic results. UV–Vis spectra revealed the mode of transitions of electrons due to the π–π* transitions, n–π* transitions, and transitions involving charge transfer from the ligand to the metal, which occurred in recently developed ligand and organotin (IV) complexes. The emergence of additional bands in the FT‐IR spectra of complexes (1–6), attributed to ν(Sn–O) and ν(Sn–N), which were absent in the precursor, offers further proof for the synthesis of these complexes. NMR spectral studies give information about the nature and number of all protons having the same or different chemical environment in the structure of all the compounds being reported in this study. The potential to be used as bioactive compounds in the future was assessed by performing the biological activities (antimicrobial and antioxidant) of these synthesized compounds and the DPPH free radical method for the antioxidant potential of these compounds. Based on these assessments, it can be concluded that the ligand's efficiency improves upon complexation, primarily due to the type and quantity of alkyl groups attached to the [Sn] metal atom. ADME and studies were conducted to forecast the biological effectiveness of the ligand and its metal complexes. Among these, the ligand and complexes 1 and 4 are prioritized for docking with Aspergillus flavus, Bacillus subtilis, and Escherichia coli. The complexes 1 and 4 were found biologically more effective towards different microbes. The Antioxidant activity of the test complexes follows this trend: Methyltin(IV) complexes exhibit the lowest activity, whereas butyltin(IV) and phenyl(IV) complexes exhibit higher levels of activity, with phenyltin(IV) showing the most significant activity.
High Proton Conductivity of Sulfonate‐amine Ionic HOFs and Enhancement of SPEEK Composite Membranes
Authors: Yang Dan , Chen Xu‐Yong , Cao Li‐Hui
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) are crystalline materials assembled by intermolecular hydrogen‐bonding interactions, and their hydrogen‐bonding structures are effective pathways for proton transport. Herein, we synthesize iHOF‐45 using 4,4’‐diaminodiphenylmethane and 1,3,6,8‐pyrenetetrasulfonicacid sodium salt with 2D hydrogen‐bonding networks. The stability of ionic HOFs (iHOFs) can be enhanced by introducing ionic bonds in addition to hydrogen‐bonding forces. Thermal analyses demonstrated that iHOF‐45 exhibited excellent thermal stability up to 332 °C. The proton conductivity of iHOF‐45 was evaluated, demonstrating a notable increase with rising temperature and RH. At 100 °C and 98 % RH, the conductivity reached 5.25×10−3 S cm−1. The activation energy (Ea) of iHOF‐45 was calculated to be 0.281 eV for 98 % RH, and the proton conduction was attributed to the Grotthuss mechanism, whereby the protons were transported in 2D hydrogen‐bonding networks. Moreover, iHOF‐45 was doped into SPEEK to prepare composite membranes, the proton conductivity of the 15 % iHOF‐45/SPEEK membrane reached 9.52×10−2 S cm−1 at 80 °C and 98 % RH, representing a 45.1 % increase over that of the SPEEK. This suggests that doping enhances the proton conductivity of SPEEK and providing a reference for the development of high proton conductivity materials.
Synthesis, Characterization and Osteogenic Properties of Chitin‐Polydioxanone Composite Gel
Authors: Murugaiyan Kavipriya , Chandramouli Arthi , Rangasamy Jayakumar
Published: September 2024

In this study, we have developed a Chitin(Ch)‐Poly(dioxanone)(PDO) gel system, which can be potentially used for tissue engineering. Hydrogel has been widely used in biomedical applications for its tuneable properties and biocompatibility. Chitin (Ch) is a natural biopolymer used for its ability to mimic the natural extracellular matrix due to its N‐acetyl glucosamine structural units. Poly (dioxanone) (PDO) is a FDA‐approved synthetic biopolymer known for its mechanical properties, good biocompatibility, and poor inflammatory response. Based on this, we have developed Ch‐PDO composite gel using simple regeneration chemistry and characterized it using FT‐IR and SEM. The developed composite gel showed improved gel strength, good swelling ability, and controlled degradation behaviour. It also showed good inject ability with shear thinning properties and hemocompatibility. Further, the biocompatibility and cell adhesion studies of the prepared gels were studied using dental follicle stem cells (DFSCs). The prepared Ch‐PDO gel was biocompatible and showed DFSCs cell attachment. Osteogenic mineralization, RUNX2 and OPN expression of the prepared Ch and Ch‐PDO gel was studied and Ch‐PDO gel showed an enhanced mineralization and RUNX2 and OPN expression showed enhanced osteogenic activity in Ch‐PDO. Therefore, the developed chitin‐PDO gel could be potentially used for bone tissue engineering.
Protective effect of radiofrequency exposure against menadione‐induced oxidative DNA damage in human neuroblastoma cells: The role of exposure duration and investigation on key molecular targets
Authors: Sannino Anna , Allocca Mariateresa , Scarfì Maria R. , Romeo Stefania , Zeni Olga
Published: September 2024

In our previous studies, we demonstrated that 20 h pre‐exposure of SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cells to 1950 MHz, UMTS signal, at specific absorption rate of 0.3 and 1.25 W/kg, was able to reduce the oxidative DNA damage induced by a subsequent treatment with menadione in the alkaline comet assay while not inducing genotoxicity per se. In this study, the same cell model was used to test the same experimental conditions by setting different radiofrequency exposure duration and timing along the 72 h culture period. The results obtained in at least three independent experiments indicate that shorter exposure durations than 20 h, that is, 10, 3, and 1 h per day for 3 days, were still capable to exert the protective effect while not inducing DNA damage per se. In addition, to provide some hints into the mechanisms underpinning the observed phenomenon, thioredoxin‐1, heat shock transcription factor 1, heat shock protein 70, and poly [ADP‐ribose] polymerase 1, as key molecular players involved in the cellular stress response, were tested following 3 h of radiofrequency exposure in western blot and qRT‐PCR experiments. No effect resulted from molecular analysis under the experimental conditions adopted.
Do corticosteroids affect immunotherapy efficacy in malignancy? – A systematic review
Authors: Byron Yoni , Yegorova‐Lee Sonya , Tio Martin
Published: September 2024

Background

Early studies indicated that corticosteroids may limit the survival benefit from immunotherapy. We conducted this systematic review to evaluate the effect corticosteroids have on immunotherapy in patients with malignancy, when adjusted for potentially confounding effects of corticosteroids given for palliative indications.

Methods

Three electronic databases (PubMed, Embase and Medline) were searched on 1 February 2023. Studies that measured response or survival to immunotherapy in people receiving corticosteroids for non‐cancer indications compared to either no corticosteroids or corticosteroids for cancer‐related indications were included. Studies exclusively evaluating the effect of corticosteroids administered for immune‐related adverse events (irAE) were excluded to avoid immortal time bias. Pooled odds and hazard ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using a random effects model. Study heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was evaluated by funnel plot and Egger's regression model.

Results

Eight thousand four hundred and twenty‐six titles were identified on our search. Eight studies met our inclusion criteria for meta‐analysis. Administration of corticosteroids does not have a statistically significant effect on survival and response to immunotherapy when administered for non‐cancer‐related indications, with a pooled odds ratio for overall response rate 1.01 (95% CI 0.64–1.60); pooled hazard ratio (HR) for progression free survival 0.87 (95% CI 0.68–1.12); and pooled HR for overall survival 0.79 (95% CI 0.59–1.05).

Conclusion

This systematic review indicates that administration of corticosteroids does not affect response to immunotherapy nor survival outcomes, when removing confounding palliative corticosteroid indications. These results are limited by the retrospective nature of the studies included, small sample sizes, lack of information about corticosteroid dosing and the inclusion of irAE in two of the studies which could bias the results.
Clinical supervisors' expectations and experiences with a routine outcome monitoring system in a psychotherapy training service
Authors: Valdiviezo‐Oña Jorge , Ortiz‐Mancheno Nicole , Paz Clara
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Routine outcome monitoring (ROM) enables data‐informed decision‐making in mental health care, yet its implementation presents both benefits and challenges. To date, the literature on the perception of ROM implementation has extensively focussed on therapists and clients; hence, there is limited information available about the perceptions of supervisors in services that provide training for psychological interventions.

Methods

This qualitative study explored supervisors' expectations and experiences with a web‐based ROM system in a university psychotherapy service. Through semi‐structured interviews and framework analysis, two senior clinical supervisors' perspectives were examined before and after ROM implementation.

Results

Expectations highlighted the need for clinically useful information, adaptability and user‐friendly interfaces. Supervisors anticipated using ROM data for case analysis, training and institutional learning. Following the implementation, supervisors recognised the system's utility in case supervision, enhancing understanding and facilitating learning processes. Perceived challenges included the potential misuse of information, client resistance and technological issues, underscoring the importance of ongoing communication and training during the implementation process. Additionally, supervisors provided some recommendations, such as enhancing system usability, providing comprehensive training, improving client engagement, refining data collection methods and conducting ongoing evaluation of the implementation process and promoting effective communication with clients.

Conclusions

These findings align with previous research, emphasising the significance of system adaptability and user‐friendliness for effective ROM utilisation. Supervisors play a crucial role in fostering collaboration, providing feedback and integrating ROM into supervision. Overall, these insights contribute to refining our ROM implementation processes, as well as guiding future ROM adoption in similar centres interested in involving supervisors.
The Role of Nanomaterials in Diagnosis and Targeted Drug Delivery
Authors: Veg Ekhlakh , Hashmi Kulsum , Raza Saman , Joshi Seema , Rahman Khan Abdul , Khan Tahmeena
Published: September 2024

Nanomaterials have evolved into the most useful resources in all spheres of life. Their small size imparts them with unique properties and they can also be designed and engineered according to the specific need. The use of nanoparticles (NPs) in medicine is particularly quite revolutionary as it has opened new therapeutic avenues to diagnose, treat and manage diseases in an efficient and timely manner. The review article presents the biomedical applications of nanomaterials including bioimaging, magnetic hypothermia and photoablation therapy, with a particular focus on disease diagnosis and targeted drug delivery. Nanobiosensors are highly specific and can be delivered into cells to investigate important biomarkers. They are also used for targeted drug delivery and deliver theranostic agents to specific sites of interest. Other than these factors, the review also explores the role of nano‐based drug delivery systems for the management and treatment of nervous system disorders, tuberculosis and orthopaedics. The nano‐capsulated drugs can be transported by blood to the targeted site for a sustained release over a prolonged period. Some other applications like their role in invasive surgery, photodynamic therapy and quantum dot imaging have also been explored. Despite that, the safety concerns related to nanomedicine are also pertinent to comprehend as well as the biodistribution of NPs in the body and the mechanistic insight.
Acyl Hydrazides as Insecticides: Synthesis, Biochemical, Structure‐Activity Relationship Studies and Insecticidal Activity of some IGRs Analogues Against Spodoptera littorallis (Boisd.)
Authors: Drar Ali M. , AL‐Saadi Thuraya A. A. M. , Thagfan Felwa A. , Hadi Mohamed Rania Ali El , El‐Hady Omar M. , Bakry Moustafa M. S. , Gad Mohamed A.
Published: September 2024

The exponential rise in pesticide resistance to conventional chemical pesticides is another major factor driving the development of novel insecticidal active agents. One approach to solving this problem is to investigate novel classes and environmentally safe insecticidal chemicals with a variety of modes of action. Among these techniques is the creation of novel tebufenozide derivatives. Tebufenozide belongs to the insect growth regulator class of insecticides and is regarded as one of the safest chemical insecticides ever. The toxicological and biochemical efficiency of each analog was assessed against the Spodoptera littoralis pest in both its second and fourth instar larvae. The bioassay results show that compound 7 was the most effective insecticidal agent, with LC50 values of 10.65 and 18.7 mg/L against S. littoralis larvae in their second and fourth instar larvae, respectively. Finally, it was shown how treatment with the LC50 of the examined substances affected the activity of many enzymes involved in the cuticle production of S. littoralis larvae in their fourth instar. From this study, it was concluded that Acyl hydrazide are helpful for the management of S. littoralis and will be an effective replacement for other synthetic insecticides.
Optical coherence tomography characterization of degradation kinetics between second‐ and third‐generation resorbable magnesium scaffold
Authors: Seguchi Masaru , Baumann‐Zumstein Philine , Fubel Armin , Pritsch Martin , Aytekin Alp , Nicol Philipp , Altevogt Jonas , Joner Michael
Published: September 2024

Aims

This preclinical study aimed to establish optical coherence tomography (OCT)‐derived parameters that could be used in the clinical setting for assessing strut degradation in the third‐generation drug‐eluting resorbable magnesium scaffold (DREAMS‐3G), and characterize the comparative degradation profile against its precursor device (MagmarisTM scaffold).

Methods and Results

Twelve DREAMS‐3G and 10 MagmarisTM scaffolds were implanted in juvenile pigs, and OCT images obtained at baseline and follow‐up (6 or 12 months). Strut degradation was assessed by planimetric analysis and compared with OCT‐derived indices to validate their diagnostic accuracy. A total of 3327 struts of DREAMS‐3G and 2995 struts of the MagmarisTM scaffold were delineated by OCT. DREAMS‐3G exhibited a significantly higher number of visible struts per analyzed frame at 6 months than the MagmarisTM scaffold, in the absence of significant differences at 12 months. Attenuation index (AtI) analysis indicated DREAMS‐3G degradation was less advanced at 6 months but more advanced at 12 months compared to the MagmarisTM scaffold. These OCT‐derived indices significantly correlated with the results of the planimetric analysis.

Conclusion

The current preclinical study validated OCT indices that may serve as clinical surrogate markers for scaffold degradation. AtI analysis indicated that DREAMS‐3G showed less degradation at 6 months but more advanced degradation at 12 months compared to the MagmarisTM scaffold, which corroborates the findings from planimetric analysis.
Plasma‐Electrified Synthesis of Atom‐Efficient Electrocatalysts for Sustainable Water Catalysis and Beyond
Authors: Perera Maheshika , Barclay Mitchell , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , MacLeod Jennifer , O'Mullane Anthony P.
Published: September 2024

The downsizing of metal structures to the nano and atomic level, thereby creating nanoparticle catalysts (NPCs), sub‐nanometer cluster catalysts (SNCCs), or single‐atom catalysts (SACs), has gained significant interest. In particular, synthesizing these types of catalysts using low‐temperature plasma‐electrified methods is an emerging field which is highly applicable to electrochemical water splitting for the sustainable production of green hydrogen. Surface modification via plasma treatment provides a route for nanoparticle immobilization or single‐atom trapping which ensures high atom utilization during electrolysis reactions. Plasma can also be used to create NPCs, SNCCs, and SACs from various precursors as well as modify their surface properties once formed which impacts significantly on the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Therefore, in this review we emphasize the role that low‐temperature plasma‐electrified synthetic strategies play in electrocatalyst development for water splitting reactions and explore the crucial relationship between the electronic and coordination environment of atom‐efficient catalysts (AECs) and their resulting catalytic activity. We also discuss methods to characterize these types of catalysts and the possibility of scaling up this technology which will be required for commercial applications.
Isothermal co‐pyrolytic kinetics investigation of polystyrene/polymethyl methacrylate blended Bakelite
Authors: Mahapatra Pabitra Mohan , Gouda Narayan , Pradhan Dipransu , Mishra Prakash Chandra , Mishra Puspanjali , Panda Achyut Kumar
Published: September 2024

The widespread use of Bakelite, polystyrene (PS), and polymethylmethacralate (PMMA) has caused significant pollution, requiring advanced recycling methods. Pyrolysis, co‐pyrolysis, and catalytic co‐pyrolysis are key for recycling these wastes, necessitating kinetic studies and specific reactor designs of their thermal degradation. Isothermal thermogravimetric analysis at 300, 350, 400, 450, and 500°C was used to study thermal degradation kinetics, based on the non‐isothermal degradation zone of Bakelite. The batch pyrolysis of discarded Bakelite and PS/PMMA–Bakelite blends was conducted at 450°C. The thermal decomposition of Bakelite and its blends increases with higher isothermal pyrolytic temperatures. The addition of PS or PMMA to Bakelite substantially accelerates its thermal decomposition. The maximum weight loss of Bakelite, PS–Bakelite, and PMMA–Bakelite are 55%, 96.75%, and 89.51% at 500°C, respectively. The kinetic analysis is crucial for designing specific reactors, utilizing the D1‐diffusion‐based method for Bakelite, with an activation energy (Ea) of 17.178 kJ/mol and Arrhenius constant (A) of 0.095 min−1. The A2‐ and A3‐Avrami–Erofeyev methods explain the isothermal degradation of PS–Bakelite and PMMA–Bakelite blends, with activation energies of 9.031 and 12.59 kJ/mol, and Arrhenius constants of 0.056 and 0.075 min−1, respectively. The co‐pyrolysis of PS–Bakelite yields the highest condensable products (66.76%) and needs the longest reaction time (320 min). The Fourier transform Infrared (FTIR) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analyses confirm the presence of alkanes, cycloalkanes, alkenes, cycloalkenes, aromatic hydrocarbons, and oxygenated compounds in the pyrolytic oils. This study provides unique kinetic parameters and product analyses, showing effects of blending on the decomposition rates and yields valuable compounds, advancing recycling technologies.
Kinetics and catalysis: Direct mechanisms, autonomous reaction pathways, and the constitutive rate function
Authors: Otarod Masood
Published: September 2024

Rate functions of catalytic reactions are derived from direct mechanisms based on an adsorption theory and a kinetic mathematical model. Often, more than one direct mechanism corresponds to an overall chemical reaction. Since each direct mechanism can potentially produce a distinct rate function, it is likely that more than one independent rate function describes the rate of an overall reaction. This appears to be a fundamental property of the structure of the kinetics of heterogeneous catalysis and this article addresses this possibility via an examination of the independent direct mechanisms of the steam methane reforming and ammonia synthesis.
Isolation of β‐O‐4‐Rich Lignin From Birch in High Yields Enabled by Continuous‐Flow Supercritical Water Treatment
Authors: Rigo Davide , Fechter Tijana , Capanema Ewellyn , Diment Daryna , Alopaeus Marie , Tarasov Dmitry , Cantero Danilo , Balakshin Mikhail
Published: September 2024

The continuous flow supercritical water (scH2O) treatment of Birch wood (T=372–382 °C; t=0.3–0.7 s; p=260 bar) followed by alkali extraction of lignin allowed for the isolation of lignin and lignin carbohydrate complexes (LCCs) with a high number of β‐O‐4 moieties in the range 29–57/100 Ar (evaluated by quantitative 13C NMR analysis) in yields ranging between 13–19 wt % with respect to the initial wood. A “lightning rod effect” of carbohydrates has been claimed to explain the low degradation of β‐O‐4 bonds during the process. The structure of the isolated lignin was thoroughly elucidated via comprehensive NMR studies (HSQC, 13C and 31P). A low degree of condensation (DC)<5 % was found for all the lignin samples, which was only slightly dependent on the reaction severity. The number of aliphatic −OH, phenolic −OH, and −COOH groups was in the range 3.37–5.25, 1.41–2.31 and 0.39–0.73 mmol/g, respectively. The number of −COOH groups increased with increased severity, suggesting that oxidation can occur during the scH2O treatment. Furthermore, by simply varying the reaction severity, it was possible to tune important lignin properties, like the molar mass and the glass transition temperature (Tg).
Equivalence and difference of the dual device under test setup and the single device under test setup of RFC 8219
Authors: Lencse Gábor , Szilágyi Szabolcs
Published: September 2024

RFC 8219 has defined a comprehensive benchmarking methodology for the IPv6 transition technologies. It recommends two kinds of measurement setups: The dual device under test (DUT) setup facilitates the benchmarking of the customer edge (CE) and provider edge (PE) devices together using a legacy RFC 2544 or RFC 5180 Network Performance Tester, whereas the single DUT setup requires a separate technology‐specific tester for the benchmarking of each device. As such, special‐purpose testers do not exist for the vast majority of the IPv6 transition technologies; the only viable solution can be the usage of the dual DUT setup. In this paper, we investigate if the two kinds of measurement setups provide the same or different results; moreover, we examine how the single DUT measurement results can be estimated from the dual DUT measurement results. To that end, we make theoretical considerations and also perform IPv4 packet forwarding and stateless IP/ICMP translation (SIIT) measurements using both measurement setups and analyze the results of the throughput and latency measurements. It was found that the throughput results of the dual DUT setup could approximate well those of the single DUT setup and their differences followed the predictions of our theoretical considerations. However, the latency results did not always follow the theoretical expectations.
The First Study on the Detection of Microplastic in the Tissues of Cyprinus carpio, Capoeta tinca and Barbus anatolicus in the Kızılırmak River (Nevşehir Region), Türkiye
Authors: Aras Seval , Yakut Şennur Merve , Dulkadiroğlu Hakan
Published: September 2024

The term ‘microplastics’ is defined as a category of pollutants that are highly prevalent in aquatic environments and have the potential to exert adverse consequences on biological systems. In this study, the presence and diversity of microplastics in the muscle, liver and digestive systems of the fish species Barbus anatolicus, Cyprinus carpio and Capoeta tinca, collected from the River Kızılırmak (Nevşehir), were examined in detail. This waterway flows through densely populated areas and empties into the Black Sea. Eighty‐two microplastics were identified in the muscle tissue of the fish, 74 in the liver and 208 in the digestive system. The majority of these microplastics were white and fibre‐shaped. The microplastics detected were of various plastic types, including polyamide, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene and polyester. The findings of this study demonstrate the significant impact of human activity on the environment, with the presence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems and living tissues.
Continuous Flow Spirocyclization Reactions: Towards Efficient Synthesis of Chiral Spiropenicillanates
Authors: Alves Américo J. S. , Silvestre João A. D. , Pinho e Melo Teresa M. V. D.
Published: September 2024

Herein, we describe the development of a continuous flow approach to chiral spiropenicillanates with remarkable bioactive properties from 6‐alkylidenepenicillanates through phosphine‐catalyzed [3+2] annulation of allenoates or 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition with diphenyldiazomethane. Model reactions were carried out using simple alkenes, such as methyl vinyl ketone and N‐substituted maleimides, leading to the corresponding products in excellent yields (up to 96 %). The [3+2] annulation reaction was subsequently extended to the reactivity of 6‐alkylidenepenicillanates, a more complex 2π‐component with an exocyclic carbon‐carbon double bond, allowing the synthesis of spirocyclic compounds. The 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition reactions between 6‐alkylidenepenicillanates and diphenyldiazomethane under continuous flow conditions gave the corresponding spiro‐1‐pyrazolinepenicillanates in high yields (up to 81 %). Thermal ring contraction, via N2 extrusion, of spiro‐1‐pyrazolinepenicillanates under continuous flow conditions led to spirocyclopropanepenicillanates in quantitative yields. The continuous flow proved to be an efficient methodology for the synthesis of spiropenicillanates and represents a more sustainable approach for the larger‐scale synthesis of spiropenicillanates with relevant biological activity.
Synthesis of Natural Product‐like Indeno[2,1‐b]indole/Shikimic Acid Hybrid Analogues with Anti‐osteoclastogenic Activity via Photo‐Nazarov Reaction
Authors: Shao Zhengguang , Wang Tianqi , Zhang Xiaofei , Jiang Min , Zhu Weiliang , Ning Ruonan , Yang Chunhao
Published: September 2024

Indeno[2,1‐b]indole and shikimic acid‐like structures are natural privileged scaffolds in several bioactive NPs. In this work, we developed a high‐efficient and diastereoselective synthetic approach to construct novel indeno[2,1‐b]indole/shikimic acid hybrid analogues via photo‐Nazarov reaction. The protocol is the first case of excited‐state photo‐Nazarov cyclization of indole‐2‐yl vinyl ketone to indeno[2,1‐b]indole. (6aS, 10aR)‐products were afforded in moderate to good yields (37–92 %) for most of substrates (91 % for model substrate 1 aa) after the condition optimization. Even more attractive, several synthesized analogues (2 t, 3 c and 3 d) exhibited potent RANKL‐induced osteoclastogenesis inhibitory activities (inhibitory rate >50 % at 5 μM), which suggested promising prospect of the novel tetracyclic indeno[2,1‐b]indole/shikimic acid hybrid scaffold for anti‐osteoporosis drug development.
Performance analysis of refuse‐derived fuel gasification plant with carbon capture and storage for power, heating, and hydrogen production
Authors: Balaban Dario , Lubura Stošić Jelena , Bera Oskar , Kojić Predrag
Published: September 2024

Among various waste‐to‐energy technologies, gasification is one of the most promising, because of high efficiency, feedstock flexibility, and carbon capture potential. This case study is focused on comprehensive analysis of integrated gasification combined cycle‐based plant with refuse‐derived fuel (RDF) as feedstock and carbon capture. As there are hardly any studies focused on simulation of waste gasification with carbon capture, most of which are lacking important process specifics, this study addresses existing research gap. Process flowsheets are developed in detail according to literature data for various process configurations and simulated in AspenPlus software, while obtained results on material and energy balance were used for estimation of plant efficiency and performance indicators. Waste generation data in Novi Sad, Serbia, were used for determination of RDF flowrate. Configurations include different syngas cleaning pathways, final products (power, heating, and hydrogen) and co‐gasification with coal. Cogeneration increases overall plant efficiency from 27%–36% (power production only) to 63%–76%. High net hydrogen efficiencies, around 58%, compensate lower power and thermal energy production in hydrogen‐based configurations. Overall, co‐gasification produces better results due to higher feedstock heating value. Obtained results will be used in further research for environmental and economic evaluation to provide multi‐level assessment of proposed processes.
Exploring thermal flow dynamics in pressurized water reactors using hybrid graphene nanoplatelet coolants
Authors: Uzun Sinem , Genç Yasin , Acır Adem
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the impact of hybrid nanoparticles on the temperature of nuclear reactor coolant, with a focus on graphene nanoplatelet (GNP)‐based hybrid nanoparticles. Sixteen different hybrid nanofluids were analyzed, and their performance was compared with a standard water‐based coolant. The criticality values were obtained through MCNP modeling, revealing that higher nanoparticle ratios led to increased criticality, with the highest value of 1.3239 observed in GNP‐Fe3O4 + Al2O3 nanofluids (0.05 wt%) and the lowest value of 1.2935 in GNP–Fe3O4 + SiO2 nanofluids (0.001 wt%). Temperature variations showed that increasing nanoparticle concentrations resulted in slightly higher temperatures, with a maximum of 611.97 K for 0.05 vol.% GNP nanoparticles. Additionally, the departure from nucleate boiling ratio values were consistently above the safety threshold of 2.08, with the lowest value of 3.657 for GNP–Fe3O4 + SiO2 nanofluids (0.05 vol.%). These findings suggest that hybrid nanofluids, particularly those with higher nanoparticle ratios, can enhance the thermal performance and safety margins of nuclear reactor coolants, offering a promising avenue for future research and application.