bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oncostatin M-Mediated Regulation of KIT-Ligand-Induced Extracellular Signal-Regulated Kinase Signaling Maintains Hematopoietic Repopulating Activity of Lin−CD34+CD133+ Cord Blood Cells
Authors: Oostendorp Robert A.J. , Gilfillan Siv , Parmar Amanda , Schiemann Matthias , Marz Stefanie , Niemeyer Markus , Schill Sabine , Hammerschmid Edelburga , Jacobs Volker R. , Peschel Christian , Götze Katharina S.
Published: May 2008

We investigated whether KIT signaling was sufficient to maintain human hematopoietic stem cells in culture or whether, as with murine stem cells, signaling through glycoprotein 130 (gp130) is additionally required. Sorted CD34+CD133+(CD33/CD38/CD71)− cells from human umbilical cord blood (UCB) were cultured in the presence of combinations of KIT-ligand (KL) and the gp130 stimulating molecule oncostatin M (OSM). We found that OSM increased KL-induced proliferation, which was accompanied by an expansion in numbers of mature progenitors colony-forming cells (CFC, CAFCw2). More primitive progenitors, CAFCw6 and long-term culture-CFC, were not maintained by KL as a single factor. Although addition of OSM did not improve survival, the KL/OSM combination showed improved maintenance of immature progenitors as well as higher CD34 expression. Similarly, both KL and OSM were required to maintain NOD/SCID-repopulating activity. In experiments to investigate the underlying mechanism, we found that extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and its downstream target p90 ribosomal S6 kinase were activated by KL and downregulated by the inclusion of OSM during stimulation. The p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (p38 MAPK) was not modulated by either KL or OSM. Indeed, many of the effects of OSM (increased cell division, maintenance of CFC, and maintenance of high CD34 expression) could be mimicked by using the mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase inhibitor U0126. More importantly, NOD/SCID-repopulating activity was preserved in the KL/U0126-stimulated cells, but not in cells stimulated with a combination of KL and the p38 MAPK inhibitor SB203580. Our results show that the loss of repopulating activity during KL stimulation is counteracted by OSM through the downregulation of ERK pathway signaling.

Disclosure of potential conflicts of interest is found at the end of this article.
Ottawa Panel Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Strengthening Exercises in the Management of Fibromyalgia: Part 2
Authors: Brosseau Lucie , Wells George A , Tugwell Peter , Egan Mary , Wilson Keith G , Dubouloz Claire-Jehanne , Casimiro Lynn , Robinson Vivian A , McGowan Jessie , Busch Angela , Poitras Stéphane , Moldofsky Harvey , Harth Manfred , Finestone Hillel M , Nielson Warren , Haines-Wangda Angela , Russell-Doreleyers Marion , Lambert Kim , Marshall Alison D , Veilleux Line
Published: May 2008

Background and Purpose

The objective of this study was to create guidelines for the use of strengthening exercises in the management of adult patients (>18 years of age) with fibromyalgia (FM), as defined by the 1990 American College of Rheumatology criteria.

Methods

Following Cochrane Collaboration methods, the Ottawa Methods Group found and synthesized evidence from comparative controlled trials and formed the Ottawa Panel, with nominated experts from key stakeholder organizations. The Ottawa Panel then developed criteria for grading the recommendations based on experimental design (I for randomized controlled trials, II for nonrandomized studies) and strength of evidence (A, B, C+, C, D+, D, or D−). From the rigorous literature search, 5 randomized controlled trials were selected. Statistical analysis was based on Cochrane Collaboration methods. Continuous data were calculated with weighted mean differences between the intervention and control groups, and dichotomous data were analyzed with relative risks. Clinical improvement was calculated using absolute benefit and relative difference in change from baseline. Clinical significance was attained when an improvement of 15% relative to a control was found.

Results

There were 5 positive recommendations: 2 grade A and 3 grade C+. All 5 were of clinical benefit.

Discussion and Conclusion

The Ottawa Panel recommends strengthening exercises for the management of fibromyalgia as a result of the emerging evidence (grades A, B, and C+, although most trials were rated low quality) shown in the literature.
Tidal Energy Extraction: Renewable, Sustainable and Predictable
Authors: Nicholls-Lee R.F. , Turnock S.R.
Published: May 2008

The tidal flow of sea water induced by planetary motion is a potential source of energy if suitable systems can be designed and operated in a cost-effective manner. This paper examines the physical origins of the tides and how the local currents are influenced by the depth of the seabed and presence of land mass and associated coastal features. The available methods of extracting energy from tidal movement are classified into devices that store and release potential energy and those that capture kinetic energy directly. A survey is made of candidate designs and, for the most promising, the likely efficiency of energy conversion and methods of installing them are considered. Overall, the need to reduce CO2 emissions, a likely continued rise in fossil fuel cost will result in a significantly increased use of tidal energy. What is still required, especially for kinetic energy devices, is a much greater understanding of how they can be designed to withstand long-term immersion in the marine environment.
Newly Synthesized Water Soluble Cholinium-Purpurin Photosensitizers and Their Stabilized Gold Nanoparticles as Promising Anticancer Agents
Authors: Demberelnyamba Dorjnamjin , Ariunaa Mama , Shim Young Key
Published: May 2008

For possible future use in Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) and/or Photothermal Therapy (PTT) of cancer and screening of cancer cells a new type of ionic liquid photosensitizer –Cholinium-Purpurin-18 (Chol-Pu-18) – was synthesized and small gold (Au) nanoparticles, stabilized by this photosensitizer were prepared without adding any particular reducing agents and CTAB. UV-Vis spectroscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) were used for characterization of the nanoparticles and FAB-MS and NMR of the ionic liquid choline hydroxide, purpurin carboxylate and their ionic liquid type of photosensitizer were obtained.
A guide to ferroptosis in cancer
Authors: Yapici Fatma Isil , Bebber Christina M. , von Karstedt Silvia
Published: April 2024

Ferroptosis is a newly identified iron‐dependent type of regulated cell death that can also be regarded as death caused by the specific collapse of the lipid antioxidant defence machinery. Ferroptosis has gained increasing attention as a potential therapeutic strategy for therapy‐resistant cancer types. However, many ferroptosis‐inducing small molecules do not reach the pharmacokinetic requirements for their effective clinical use yet. Nevertheless, their clinical optimization is under development. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of molecular pathways regulating ferroptosis, how cells protect themselves from the induction of ferroptotic cell death, and how a better understanding of cancer cell metabolism can represent vulnerabilities for ferroptosis‐based therapies. Lastly, we discuss the context‐dependent effect of ferroptosis on various cell types within the tumor microenvironment and address controversies on how tissue ferroptosis might impact systemic cancer immunity in a paracrine manner.
Electrode Placement Optimization for Electrical Impedance Tomography Using Active Learning
Authors: Lee Junhyeong , Park Kyungseo , Park Kundo , Kim Yongtae , Kim Jung , Ryu Seunghwa
Published: April 2024

Electrical impedance tomography (EIT) offers a versatile imaging modality with a multitude of applications, although it encounters accuracy limitations. Herein, a novel systematic framework is presented that integrates a neural network (NN), active learning, and transfer learning to optimize electrode placement, improving image reconstruction performance based on user‐defined metrics. Given the many‐to‐one mapping between electrode configuration and the performance metric, the approach utilizes a NN that predicts performance metrics from electrode placement input. To maintain NN's prediction accuracy for unseen electrode configurations, performance metrics are maximized while iteratively updating the NN via active learning during the optimization process. Transfer learning is employed to expedite optimization of electrode placements for time‐consuming iterative reconstruction techniques by fine‐tuning a NN initially trained on one‐step reconstruction data. The method is validated using two representative reconstruction methods: one‐step reconstruction with Newton's one‐step error reconstructor prior and the iterative total variation method. This research underscores the potential of the proposed framework in addressing EIT's inherent limitations and augmenting its performance across diverse applications and reconstruction methods. The framework could potentially contribute to the advancement of noninvasive medical imaging, structural health monitoring, strain sensing, robotics, and other fields that depend on EIT.
Stiffness Mediated‐Mechanosensation of Airway Smooth Muscle Cells on Linear Stiffness Gradient Hydrogels
Authors: Tan Yong Hwee , Wang Kimberley C. W. , Chin Ian L. , Sanderson Rowan W. , Li Jiayue , Kennedy Brendan F. , Noble Peter B. , Choi Yu Suk
Published: April 2024

In obstructive airway diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein amount and composition of the airway smooth muscle (ASM) is often remodelled, likely altering tissue stiffness. The underlying mechanism of how human ASM cell (hASMC) mechanosenses the aberrant microenvironment is not well understood. Physiological stiffnesses of the ASM were measured by uniaxial compression tester using porcine ASM layers under 0, 5 and 10% longitudinal stretch above in situ length. Linear stiffness gradient hydrogels (230 kPa range) were fabricated and functionalized with ECM proteins, collagen I (ColI), fibronectin (Fn) and laminin (Ln), to recapitulate the above‐measured range of stiffnesses. Overall, hASMC mechanosensation exhibited a clear correlation with the underlying hydrogel stiffness. Cell size, nuclear size and contractile marker alpha‐smooth muscle actin (αSMA) expression showed a strong correlation to substrate stiffness. Mechanosensation, assessed by Lamin‐A intensity and nuc/cyto YAP, exhibited stiffness‐mediated behaviour only on ColI and Fn‐coated hydrogels. Inhibition studies using blebbistatin or Y27632 attenuated most mechanotransduction‐derived cell morphological responses, αSMA and Lamin‐A expression and nuc/cyto YAP (blebbistatin only). This study highlights the interplay and complexities between stiffness and ECM protein type on hASMC mechanosensation, relevant to airway remodelling in obstructive airway diseases.
Stretchable Electrodes with Interfacial Percolation Network
Authors: Zhang Hanxue , Shao Yan , Xia Rui , Chen Guoli , Xiang Xinyue , Yu Yanhao
Published: April 2024

Stretchable electrodes are an essential component that determines the functionality and reliability of stretchable electronics, but face the challenge of balancing conductivity and stretchability. This work proposes a new conducting concept called the interfacial percolation network (PN) that results in stretchable electrodes with high conductivity, large stretchability, and high stability. The interfacial PN is composed of a 2D silver nanowires (AgNWs) PN and a protruding 3D AgNWs PN embedded on the surface and in the near‐surface region of an elastic polymer matrix, respectively. The protruded PN is obtained by changing the arrangements of AgNWs from horizontal to quasi‐vertical through introducing foreign polymer domains in the near‐surface region of the polymer matrix. The resulting electrode achieves a conductivity of 13 500 S cm−1 and a stretchability of 660%. Its resistance changes under stretched conditions are orders of magnitude lower than those of conventional 2D PN and 2D + 3D PN. An interfacial PN electrode made from liquid metal remained its conductivity at 46 750 S cm−1 after the electrode underwent multiple stretch‐release cycles with a deformation of >600%. The concept of interfacial PN provides fruitful implications for the design of stretchable electronics.
Strengthening the Synergy between Oxygen Vacancies in Electrocatalysts for Efficient Glycerol Electrooxidation
Authors: Wu Liyun , Wu Qilong , Han Yun , Zhang Dongdong , Zhang Rongrong , Song Nan , Wu Xiaofeng , Zeng Jianrong , Yuan Pei , Chen Jun , Du Aijun , Huang KeKe , Yao Xiangdong
Published: April 2024

Defect‐engineered bimetallic oxides exhibit high potential for the electrolysis of small organic molecules. However, the ambiguity in the relationship between the defect density and electrocatalytic performance makes it challenging to control the final products of multi‐step multi‐electron reactions in such electrocatalytic systems. In this study, controllable kinetics reduction is used to maximize the oxygen vacancy density of a Cu─Co oxide nanosheet (CuCo2O4 NS), which is used to catalyze the glycerol electrooxidation reaction (GOR). The CuCo2O4−x NS with the highest oxygen‐vacancy density (CuCo2O4−x‐2) oxidizes C3 molecules to C1 molecules with selectivity of almost 100% and a Faradaic efficiency of ≈99%, showing the best oxidation performance among all the modified catalysts. Systems with multiple oxygen vacancies in close proximity to each other synergistically facilitate the cleavage of C─C bonds. Density functional theory calculations confirm the ability of closely spaced oxygen vacancies to facilitate charge transfer between the catalyst and several key glycolic‐acid (GCA) intermediates of the GOR process, thereby facilitating the decomposition of C2 intermediates to C1 molecules. This study reveals qualitatively in tuning the density of oxygen vacancies for altering the reaction pathway of GOR by the synergistic effects of spatial proximity of high‐density oxygen vacancies.
Reversing the Interfacial Electric Field in Metal Phosphide Heterojunction by Fe‐Doping for Large‐Current Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Li Zhong , Xu Chengshuang , Zhang Zheye , Xia Shan , Li Dongsheng , Liu Liren , Chen Peng , Dong Xiaochen
Published: April 2024

Developing non‐precious‐metal electrocatalysts that can operate with a low overpotential at a high current density for industrial application is challenging. Heterogeneous bimetallic phosphides have attracted much interest. Despite high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance, the ordinary oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance hinders their practical use. Herein, it is shown that Fe‐doping reverses and enlarges the interfacial electrical field at the heterojunction, turning the H intermediate favorable binding sites for HER into O intermediate favorable sites for OER. Specifically, the self‐supported heterojunction catalysts on nickel foam (CoP@Ni2P/NF and Fe‐CoP@Fe‐Ni2P/NF) are readily synthesized. They only require the overpotentials of 266 and 274 mV to drive a large current density of 1000 mA cm−2 (j1000) for HER and OER, respectively. Furthermore, a water splitting cell equipped with these electrodes only requires a voltage of 1.724 V to drive j1000 with excellent durability, demonstrating the potential of industrial application. This work offers new insights on interfacial engineering for heterojunction catalysts.
Versatile Self‐Assembled Monolayer Material Enables Efficient Organic Photovoltaic Devices and Modules
Authors: Li Yaohui , Jia Ziyan , Huang Peihao , Liu Tianyu , Hu Dingqin , Li Yulu , Liu Heng , Lu Xinhui , Lu Shirong , Yin Xinxing , Yang Yang (Michael)
Published: April 2024

Efficient and stable hole transport layer (HTL) is an important component of organic photovoltaics (OPV). Herein, a novel self‐assembled monolayer material of 4PADCB (short for (4‐(7H‐dibenzo[c,g]carbazol‐7‐yl)butyl)phosphonic acid) as HTL for non‐fullerene (NF) OPV is reported. Compared to the widely used PEDOT:PSS HTL, the usage of 4PADCB not only enhances photon incident and charge generation but also effectively improves the morphology of the upper active layer, promotes molecular packing, and balances the carrier transport within active layer. As a result, the single‐junction binary D18:L8BO OPV, employing 4PADCB as HTL, achieves a high‐power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.02% with excellent storage stability. Furthermore, a 19.3 cm2 OPV module comprising seven sub‐cells demonstrates a maximum PCE of 15.44%, which is the highest value of reported efficiency for large‐area binary OPV modules. Meanwhile, the module is the first demonstration of an OPV module based on self‐assembled monolayer material. This work underscores the substantial potential for the application of 4PADCB in efficient NF OPV devices and high‐throughput large‐area modules.
Electronic effect regulated ethylene polymerization and copolymerization of phosphorus phenol nickel catalysts
Authors: Xie Yaping , Yang Feiran , Miao Qing , Zhang Ziqiang , Wang Wenbing , Wang Fuzhou , Zou Chen
Published: April 2024

In recent years, phosphorus phenol nickel catalysts with excellent polar monomer copolymerization performance have flourished. A series of phosphorus phenol nickel catalysts based on adjusting spatial hindrance have been designed and synthesized for ethylene polymerization and copolymerization. In this paper, a series of phosphorus phenol nickel catalysts with different para electronic effects have been designed from the perspective of electronic effects, and the effects of these phosphorus phenol nickel catalysts with different electronic effects on ethylene polymerization and copolymerization have been studied. And we found that these nickel catalysts with para electron donating groups have higher catalytic activity (the highest activity can reach 6.2 × 106 gPE molNi−1 h−1) and prepared polymers with higher molecular weight (molecular weight up to 4.9 × 105 gPE molNi−1) compared to electron withdrawing groups.
Novel amphiphilic (AB)3‐type star block polymer: Synthesis and micellization study
Authors: Hamzeheipour Saeideh , Rezaei Abbas , Behniafar Hossein
Published: April 2024

An amphiphilic three‐armed star polymer was synthesized through the polar cycloaddition reaction of a polyethylene glycol‐based macro‐triazide with an Yne‐terminated polycaprolactone in a molar ratio of 1:3 (click chemistry). Thus, each arm is itself a di‐block copolymer branched from the core, which is a 1,3,5‐triazine ring. The attachment of the pre‐synthesized hydrophobic segments to the hydrophilic segments in each arm leads to the creation of a 1,2,3‐triazole ring in the structure. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and proton nuclear magnetic resonance (H‐NMR) spectroscopies were used to verify the structures. The micellization process of the prepared amphiphilic polymer was investigated in aqueous medium. For this purpose, the critical micelle concentration (CMC) was specified by the fluorometric method. Using the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) technique, it was observed that spherical self‐assemblies with a mean diameter of <100 nm are formed from the aggregation of the amphiphilic macromolecules. In addition, the hydrodynamic diameter (H) of the polymeric micelles and their size distribution were examined by dynamic light scattering (DLS) technique.
Tough and stretchable copolymer eutectogels constructed via in situ phase separation for flexible strain sensors
Authors: Wang Rui , Wu Linlin , Gao Yifeng , Yu Kaixuan , Ma Xiaofeng , Fang Xianli , Fang Ying , Dou Qiang
Published: April 2024

Deep eutectic solvent (DES)‐based eutectogels, known for their superior ionic conductivity, non‐volatility, biocompatibility, and cost‐effectiveness, have emerged as promising materials for flexible devices. However, the development of tough and stretchable eutectogels remains a significant challenge. Herein, we introduce a one‐step in‐situ phase separation strategy to fabricate tough and stretchable P(MAA‐co‐AAm)/TEAC‐EG copolymer eutectogels through random copolymerization of methacrylic acid (MAA) and acrylamide (AAm) in a tetraethylammonium chloride‐ethylene glycol (TEAC‐EG) DES. The poor compatibility of PAAm segments with TEAC‐EG DES results in the formation of a polymer‐rich phase, leading to energy dissipation during loading. Simultaneously, PMAA segments exhibiting good compatibility with DES, form a solvent‐rich phase that distributes stress and facilitates ion migration. The synergy between these two phases imparts ultratoughness and excellent conductivity to the copolymer eutectogel. The resultant copolymer eutectogel exhibits high strength (2.40 MPa), toughness (22.90 MJ m−3), and remarkable stretchability of 1340%, while demonstrating excellent self‐recovery, self‐healing abilities, and adhesive performance. Notably, its ionic conductivity reaches 1.07 mS cm−1 at 20°C, rendering these eutectogels well‐suited for applications as strain sensors in human motion detection. This study presents a facile approach to tune eutectogel microstructure and properties, thereby expanding their potential applications in high‐performance flexible electronics.
Acoustic Torsional Mechanical Oscillator Driven by Wave‐Matter Orbital Angular Momentum Transfer with Quality Factor >1000
Authors: Sanchez‐Padilla Benjamin , Brasselet Etienne
Published: April 2024

The experimental realization of a macroscopic mechanical oscillator driven by the nondissipative transfer of angular momentum from sound waves to matter is presented, with quality factor up to Q ≈ 2000. This performance is two orders of magnitude higher than previously reported values Q ≈ 10. This result is achieved through the use of a monolithic metallic torsional pendulum and improved assembling method of the constitutive parts of the apparatus. This allows a substantial reduction of the internal losses associated with the imaginary part of the complex shear modulus compared with previous attempts using photocurable resin materials.
High‐Voltage Off‐Stoichiometric Vanadium‐Based Pyrophosphate Na6.51V3.16(P2O7)4 for Rechargeable Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wu Honglun , Wen Tianzhuo , Ding Yan , Huang Ronghua , Zeng Yubin , Pu Xiangjun , Chen Zhongxue
Published: April 2024

The accessibility of high‐performance sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) hinges upon cathodes with high voltage and large reversible capacity. Among the contenders, vanadium‐based polyanionic compound with strong inductive effect from anionic group and multiple accessible oxidation states of vanadium emerged as a formidable competitor, however, only limited candidates in this field were reported so far. This manuscript delineated the rational synthesis of a novel off‐stoichiometric pyrophosphate Na6.51V3.16(P2O7)4. It delivers a specific capacity of 102 mAh g−1 at the current density of 20 mA g−1, as well as a high discharge median voltage of 3.87 V vs. Na+/Na, rendering it a rare sodium‐ion storage host with multi‐redox couples (V5+/4+/3+/2+). The experimental approach to phase adjustment in this article offers guidelines for exploiting of new cathode materials for high‐performance SIBs.
A case of ulcerative colitis complicated by a simple appendiceal opening
Authors: Liu Xiao , Fang Fang , Luo Qingfeng
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case report describes the clinical course of a 64‐year‐old male with intermittent abdominal pain attributed to recurrent ulcers at the appendiceal orifice. Initial investigations in November 2019 revealed chronic gastritis and ulcers at the appendiceal orifice, prompting consideration of ulcerative colitis (UC). The patient responded well to mesalazine therapy, experiencing relief from symptoms and improved colonoscopy findings in May 2020. Despite discontinuing medication, a recurrence of symptoms in August 2021 led to a repeat colonoscopy showing renewed ulcers. Mesalazine was reinstated, resulting in symptom resolution and improved colonoscopy findings by December 2021. However, in May 2023, a subsequent recurrence of abdominal pain and colonoscopy‐confirmed mucosal changes at the appendiceal orifice prompted reintroduction of mesalazine. The patient remains under regular monitoring on mesalazine therapy. This case highlights the challenges in managing recurrent appendiceal ulcers and the importance of long‐term therapeutic vigilance in suspected UC cases.
Primary antiphospholipid syndrome in a male presents with acute digital ischemia: Dramatic response to glucocorticoid
Authors: Ahammed Tanvir , Rasel Mohammad , Saha Sourav , Istiak Ashif , Chowdhury Sabreena
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

We present a rare case of primary antiphospholipid syndrome in a 38‐year‐old male who presented with painful digital ischemia. Early initiation of anticoagulation and addition of glucocorticoid led to a significant improvement in the patient.
Multi‐Criteria Shape Optimization of Flow Fields for Electrochemical Cells
Authors: Blauth Sebastian , Baldan Marco , Osterroth Sebastian , Leithäuser Christian , Apfel Ulf‐Peter , Kleinhaus Julian , Pellumbi Kevinjeorjios , Siegmund Daniel , Steiner Konrad , Bortz Michael
Published: April 2024

Shape optimization of flow fields for electrochemical cells is performed. Simulation models of the flow field are introduced with and without the porous transport layer. The latter model is less detailed and used for shape optimization whereas the former one is used to validate the obtained results. Three objective functions are proposed based on the uniformity of the flow and residence time as well as the wall shear stress. After considering the respective optimization problems separately, techniques from multi‐criteria optimization are used to treat the conflicting objective functions systematically. The results highlight the potential of this approach for generating novel flow field designs for electrochemical cells.
Experimental Analysis of Inductive Heating of Catalytic Beds
Authors: Kleschew Daniel , Tuttlies Ute , Nieken Ulrich
Published: April 2024

To reduce CO2 emissions in the chemical industry, already established endothermic reactors should be heated with electrical energy. One promising possibility is inductive heating, in which electrical energy can be transferred to the susceptor (material to be heated). The uniform heating of the susceptor material is necessary for stable operation in chemical reactors and is therefore investigated in this work. For this purpose, a non‐reactive test setup was built that enables the investigation of inductive heating of different susceptor materials and measurement of the temperature distribution under defined non‐reactive conditions. In the first tests, temperatures of up to 800 °C were reached and an uneven heat input in a bed of stainless‐steel rings was observed.
Catalytic Conversion of Ethanol with Conventional and Ohmic Heating in Comparison
Authors: Greuel Marc , Watermann Clara Maria , Matschuk Kimberley Kim , Krisam Marc Marcel , Menne Andreas , Zeidler‐Fandrich Barbara
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the catalytic conversion of ethanol using a modified saponite in both an ohmic and a conventional reactor. For testing in the ohmic reactor the catalyst is stacked in between conductive graphite fleece or formed to conductive pellets. The influence on catalytic activity and axial temperature profiles was examined. Catalytic tests in the ohmic reactor showed comparable results to the conventional reactor. Additionally heating profiles of different conductive materials where taken, within uniform heating was reached with the carbon fleeces.
Recent Progress on Cathode Materials for Rechargeable Zinc Ion Batteries
Authors: Xu Zefeng , Ruhlmann Laurent , Lv Yaokang , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: April 2024

Due to their low cost, high capacity, mild assembly and testing conditions, as well as environmentally friendly characteristics, rechargeable zinc ion batteries (RZIBs) have attracted more and more attention. RZIBs have a broad development prospect and may partly replace the traditional batteries in the near future. Tremendous efforts have been devoted to developing various of high‐efficient cathode materials for improving comprehensive performances of RZIBs. However, many problems such as poor electron/ion conductivity, weak structural stability and complex energy storage mechanisms still exist in current cathode materials which hinder the practical application of RZIBs. This paper presents a timely review on recent progresses and challenges in cathode materials for RZIBs. We summarize various types of reported cathode materials for RZIBs, compare their electrochemical performances and investigate their probable working mechanisms with the association of computational chemistry. Moreover, the existing problems and expected development directions of these materials are further discussed.
Bioequivalence of Elagolix/Estradiol/Norethindrone Acetate Fixed‐Dose Combination Product: Phase 1 Results in Healthy Pre‐ and Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Chen Mong‐Jen , Marroum Patrick , Chiu Yi‐Lin , Neenan Melina , Mostafa Nael M. , Shebley Mohamad
Published: April 2024

Fixed‐dose combination (FDC) therapies can enhance patient convenience and adherence to prescribed treatment regimens. Elagolix is a novel oral gonadotropin‐releasing hormone receptor antagonist approved for management of moderate to severe pain associated with endometriosis and heavy menstrual bleeding associated with uterine fibroids. Hormonal add‐back therapy can attenuate the reversible hypoestrogenic effects of elagolix. An FDC formulation containing elagolix/estradiol (E2)/norethindrone acetate (NETA) 300/1/0.5 mg as the morning dose and an elagolix 300 mg capsule as the evening dose, were evaluated in 2 bioequivalence studies including the effects of food. Study 1 in premenopausal women assessed the bioavailability of the elagolix 300‐mg capsule relative to the commercially available elagolix 300‐mg tablet. Study 2 in postmenopausal women, elagolix/E2/NETA (300 mg/1 mg/0.5 mg) FDC capsule was assessed relative to the elagolix 300‐mg tablet coadministered with E2/NETA 1‐mg/0.5‐mg tablet, the regimen that was studied in Phase 3 uterine fibroid studies. Under fasting conditions, the test elagolix 300‐mg capsule was bioequivalent to the reference elagolix 300‐mg tablet. Under fasting conditions, the elagolix/E2/NETA FDC capsule was bioequivalent to the coadministered elagolix 300‐mg tablet and E2/NETA 1/0.5‐mg tablet. Following administration of elagolix/E2/NETA FDC capsule after a high‐fat breakfast, elagolix mean maximum concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) were 38% and 28% lower, relative to fasting conditions. NETA mean Cmax was 51% lower and AUC from time 0 to infinity was 20% higher, while baseline‐adjusted total estrone mean Cmax and AUC were 46% and 14% lower, respectively. No safety concerns were identified. These results enabled bridging the elagolix/E2/NETA FDC capsule.
Changes in the content of carotenoids in potato tubers cultivated with or without the application of fungicides
Authors: Tatarowska Beata , Milczarek Dorota , Plich Jarosław
Published: April 2024

In this study, three cultivars and seven tetraploid potato clones were evaluated for two years in two cultivation systems (CS): without chemical protection against late blight development (NP) and with chemical protection (P). The objective of this study was to quantify the effect of chemical protection on the level of total carotenoids (TC) and individual carotenoids in potato tubers. The presented study showed that the content of TC in potato tubers is significantly affected by the CS and genotype. TC were higher in the system NP (mean 329.6 µg/100 g fresh weight [FW]) than in the system P (mean 206.2 µg/100 g FW). Although the development of late blight was observed only in the year 2019, a higher content of TC was observed in the system NP in both years. This dependence clearly show that CS without chemical protection favor carotenoids accumulation in potatotubers. In the case of lutein, the year had a significant impact on the concentration. The concentration of lutein in 2018 for the majority genotypes was higher (mean 72.1 µg/100 g FW), than in year 2019 (mean 37.3 µg/100 g FW), when late blight development wasobserved. The sharp decrease in lutein content in 2019 was probably caused by the development of late blight. A significant decrease of lutein content in potato tubers was observed in 2019 for all genotypes in system P and for five genotypes in system NP. It can be assumed that resistance mechanisms that occur during infection may have disturbed the accumulation of lutein in potato tubers.
Cardiometabolic disease, cognitive decline, and brain structure in middle and older age
Authors: Dove Abigail , Guo Jie , Wang Jiao , Vetrano Davide Liborio , Sakakibara Sakura , Laukka Erika J. , Bennett David A. , Xu Weili
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

The presence of multiple cardiometabolic diseases (CMDs) has been linked to increased dementia risk, but the combined influence of CMDs on cognition and brain structure across the life course is unclear.

METHODS

In the UK Biobank, 46,562 dementia‐free participants completed a cognitive test battery at baseline and a follow‐up visit 9 years later, at which point 39,306 also underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging. CMDs (diabetes, heart disease, and stroke) were ascertained from medical records. Data were analyzed using age‐stratified (middle age [< 60] versus older [≥ 60]) mixed‐effects models and linear regression.

RESULTS

A higher number of CMDs was associated with significantly steeper global cognitive decline in older (β = –0.008; 95% confidence interval: −0.012, −0.005) but not middle age. Additionally, the presence of multiple CMDs was related to smaller total brain volume, gray matter volume, white matter volume, and hippocampal volume and larger white matter hyperintensity volume, even in middle age.

DISCUSSION

CMDs are associated with cognitive decline in older age and poorer brain structural health beginning already in middle age.

Highlights

We explored the association of CMDs with cognitive decline and brain MRI measures.

CMDs accelerated cognitive decline in older (≥60y) but not middle (<60) age.

CMDs were associated with poorer brain MRI parameters in both middle and older age.

Results highlight the connection between CMDs and cognitive/brain aging.
Crystallization behavior of monoglyceride oleogels: A comparison between a fully hydrogenated palm oil and a fully hydrogenated rapeseed oil based monoglycerides
Authors: Rondou Kato , De Witte Fien , Penagos Ivana A. , Chen Oscar , Dewettinck Koen , Van Bockstaele Filip
Published: April 2024

Fat polymorphism plays a crucial role in many fat‐rich food products (e.g., margarine, chocolate). Due to this, polymorphism of triglycerides is widely investigated. During the previous years, the interest of using monoglyceride oleogels to replace margarine is increasing due to its structure, reduced amount of saturated fatty acids, stability and application potential. However, polymorphism of monoglyceride oleogels is less investigated. This research shows the effect of the composition (C18:0 or C18:0 and C16:0), temperature (25°C–20°C–10°C) and production process (static or lab‐scale scraped surface heat exchanger) on the crystallization behavior of monoglyceride oleogels (MO) by using differential scanning calorimetry, (synchrotron) X‐ray scattering and polarized light microscopy. Based on time‐resolved synchrotron WAXS, it was found that the rapeseed oil based MO (MO‐C18) occurred in four different polymorphs. During crystallization, transitions from an inverse lamellar phase (Lα) toward sub‐α1 and sub‐α2 could be established. Upon storage, a polymorphic transition toward β occurred. For the palm oil based MO (MO‐C18/C16), only two polymorphs were found during crystallization (Lα, sub‐α), followed by a polymorphic transition to β upon storage. By applying high shear and cooling rates during the production of MO‐C18 (dynamic production), the polymorphic transition from sub‐α2 to β occurred much faster compared to the static production method. When comparing the dynamically produced MO‐C18 and MO‐C18/C16, the thickness of 1 lamella, the crystal nanoplatelet and the fat crystals were smaller for MO‐C18/C16. This research clearly illustrates that the composition and the applied crystallization conditions have an impact on the properties from nano‐ to microscale.

Practical Application: This research illustrates the importance of engineering monoglycerides oleogels to obtain food products with an improved nutritional balance. Hereby, the manuscript focuses on the crystallization behavior of monoglyceride oleogels by changing the composition and the crystallization procedure. The acquired insights go beyond the state of the art. It was found that applying high cooling rates and high shear rates by using a lab‐scale scraped surface heat exchanger affected the crystallization behavior of monoglyceride oleogels. These are crucial experiments to verify the application potential of monoglyceride oleogels in the food industry. Moreover, different polymorphic transitions occurred for the two types of monoglycerides. This is the starting point to investigate the effect of polymorphism on a final food product in order to improve the nutritional balance in fat‐rich food products.
Mulberry and Hippophae‐based solid beverage attenuate hyperlipidemia and hepatic steatosis via adipose tissue–liver axis
Authors: Zhu An‐Qi , Luo Nin , Sun Ling‐Yue , Zhou Xiao‐Ting , Chen Shi‐Sheng , Huang Zebo , Mao Xin‐Liang , Li Kun‐Ping
Published: April 2024

Dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis are the characteristics of the initial stage of nonalcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can be reversed by lifestyle intervention, including dietary supplementation. However, such commercial dietary supplements with solid scientific evidence and in particular clear mechanistic elucidation are scarce. Here, the health benefits of MHP, a commercial mulberry and Hippophae‐based solid beverage, were evaluated in NAFLD rat model and the underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated. Histopathologic examination of liver and white adipose tissue found that MHP supplementation reduced hepatic lipid accumulation and adipocyte hypertrophy. Serum biochemical results confirmed that MHP effectively ameliorated dyslipidemia and decreased circulation‐free fatty acid level. RNA‐Seq‐based transcriptomic analysis showed that MHP‐regulated genes are involved in the inhibition of lipolysis of adipose tissue and thus may contribute to the reduction of hepatic ectopic lipid deposition. Furthermore, MHP upregulated ACSL1–CPT1a–CPT2 pathway, a canonical pathway that regulated mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism, and promoted liver and adipose tissue fatty acid β‐oxidation. These results suggest that adipose tissue–liver crosstalk may play a key role in maintaining glucose and lipid metabolic hemostasis. In addition, MHP can also ameliorate chronic inflammation through regulating the secretion of adipokines. Our study demonstrates that MHP is able to improve dyslipidemia and hepatic steatosis through crosstalk between adipose tissue and liver and also presents transcriptomic evidence to support the underlying mechanisms of action, providing solid evidence for its health claims.
Complementary assessment of nano‐packaged garlic properties by electronic nose
Authors: Makarichian Alireza , Ahmadi Ebrahim , Amiri Chayjan Reza , Zafari Doostmorad
Published: April 2024

It is crucial to initiate appropriate storage conditions for garlic depending on its properties. Fungal contamination can reduce the quality of garlic through changes in its properties which result in its aroma alteration. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of treatments such as fungal infection (FI), material of packaging (MP), and storage duration (SD) on various characteristics of garlic. An electronic nose was used complementarily to trace the aroma changes as a non‐destructive indicator. The Fusarium oxysporum (FS), Alternaria embellisia (AL), and Botrytis allii (BT) fungi were adopted for inoculation. The low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) and silicone nano‐emulsions (SNE) were used for packing samples. The data were analyzed by diverse approaches such as ANOVA, PLS, PCA, LDA, and BPNN. The results revealed that the evaluated properties changed during the storage. The implementation of treatments altered the intensity of these changes. The highest values of weight loss (21.14%), color changes (50.21), and acidity (7.48) were observed in the FS‐infected samples kept in LDPE for 28 days. The accuracy of PCA, LDA, and BPNN in the multivariate analysis of aroma had an increasing‐decreasing trend. The best accuracy of PCA in categorizing the FI and MP treatments achieved in the twelfth day of storage (96%). The optimal accuracy of classifications based on FI and MP treatments was obtained at d#12 (100%) and d#24 (100%), respectively. The PLS exposed that the aroma changes in garlic had a high correlation with the changes of studied properties (R2 ≥ .7), except for the mechanical properties.
Astrocyte switch to the hyperactive mode
Authors: Araki Shun , Onishi Ichinosuke , Ikoma Yoko , Matsui Ko
Published: April 2024

Increasing pieces of evidence have suggested that astrocyte function has a strong influence on neuronal activity and plasticity, both in physiological and pathophysiological situations. In epilepsy, astrocytes have been shown to respond to epileptic neuronal seizures; however, whether they can act as a trigger for seizures has not been determined. Here, using the copper implantation method, spontaneous neuronal hyperactivity episodes were reliably induced during the week following implantation. With near 24‐h continuous recording for over 1 week of the local field potential with in vivo electrophysiology and astrocyte cytosolic Ca2+ with the fiber photometry method, spontaneous occurrences of seizure episodes were captured. Approximately 1 day after the implantation, isolated aberrant astrocyte Ca2+ events were often observed before they were accompanied by neuronal hyperactivity, suggesting the role of astrocytes in epileptogenesis. Within a single developed episode, astrocyte Ca2+ increase preceded the neuronal hyperactivity by ~20 s, suggesting that actions originating from astrocytes could be the trigger for the occurrence of epileptic seizures. Astrocyte‐specific stimulation by channelrhodopsin‐2 or deep‐brain direct current stimulation was capable of inducing neuronal hyperactivity. Injection of an astrocyte‐specific metabolic inhibitor, fluorocitrate, was able to significantly reduce the magnitude of spontaneously occurring neuronal hyperactivity. These results suggest that astrocytes have a role in triggering individual seizures and the reciprocal astrocyte‐neuron interactions likely amplify and exacerbate seizures. Therefore, future epilepsy treatment could be targeted at astrocytes to achieve epilepsy control.
Novel diarylated tacrine derivatives: Synthesis, characterization, anticancer, antiepileptic, antibacterial, and antifungal activities
Authors: Mısır Büşra A. , Derin Yavuz , Ökten Salih , Aydın Ali , Koçyiğit Ümit M. , Şahin Hatice , Tutar Ahmet
Published: April 2024

In this study, our goal was to synthesize novel aryl tacrine derivatives and assess their potential as anticancer, antibacterial agents, and enzyme inhibitors. We adopted a two‐step approach, initiating with the synthesis of dibromotacrine derivatives 3 and 4 through the Friedlander reaction. These intermediates underwent further transformation into diarylated tacrine derivatives 3a–e and 4a–e using a Suzuki–Miyaura cross‐coupling reaction. Thorough characterization of these novel diarylated tacrines was achieved using various spectroscopic techniques. Our findings highlighted the potent anticancer effects of these innovative compounds across a range of cancer cell lines, including lung, gynecologic, bone, colon, and breast cancers, while demonstrating low cytotoxicity against normal cells. Notably, these compounds surpassed the control drug, 5‐Fluorouracil, in terms of antiproliferative activity in numerous cancer cell lines. Moreover, our investigation included an analysis of the inhibitory properties of these novel compounds against various microorganisms and cytosolic carbonic anhydrase enzymes. The results suggest their potential for further exploration as cancer‐specific, enzyme inhibitory, and antibacterial therapeutic agents. Notably, four compounds, namely, 5,7‐bis(4‐(methylthio)phenyl)tacrine (3d), 5,7‐bis(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)tacrine (3e), 2,4‐bis(4‐(trifluoromethoxy)phenyl)‐7,8,9,10‐tetrahydro‐6H‐cyclohepta[b]quinolin‐11‐amine (4e), and 6,8‐dibromotacrine (3), emerged as the most promising candidates for preclinical studies.
Absorption performance and mechanism of volatile organic compounds by phosphonium ionic liquids with different anions
Authors: Kang Jie , Lu Shijian , Zhu Jiamei , Shi Lin , Liu Bingqian
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) seriously harms the environment and human health. The prevention and control of VOC pollution is a major challenge in the research field. Aiming at VOC pollution treatment using green solvents, the absorption of trichloromethane by synthesized tributyl(propyl)phosphonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([P4443] [Tf2N]), tributyl(propyl)phosphonium tetrafluoroborate ([P4443] [BF4]), tributyl(propyl)phosphonium trifluoroacetic acid ([P4443] [CF3COO]) and xylene by trioctyl(propyl)phosphonium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ([P8883] [Tf2N]) and trioctyl(propyl)phosphonium tetrafluoroborate ([P8883] [BF4]) were experimentally measured. The mechanism of trichloromethane and xylene absorption by phosphonium‐based ionic liquids (PILs) with different anions was further discussed through simulation calculation.

RESULTS

PILs process excellent absorption capacity, such as [P4443] [CF3COO], with static saturation absorbing capacity up to 2.843 g g−1 for trichloromethane. PILs have a certain selective absorption ability for xylene, which has the highest absorption for o‐xylene, reaching 1.462 g g−1. The absorption energy data also prove that [CF3COO]− anion preferentially interacts with trichloromethane. Combined with the most stable structures of VOCs absorbed by PILs, the results of the Mulliken charge and frontier molecular orbitals indicate that PIL anions play a major role in chlorinated alkanes, and form hydrogen bonds with them. In addition, the cation can form CH···π bond interaction with xylene.

CONCLUSION

The experimental and calculated results showed that PILs are a promising adsorbent for trichloromethane and xylene. The study provides a reference for PILs designed to deal with VOCs in the future. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Experience of treatment in critical Guillain‐Barre Syndrome case after COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Zhu Chunying , Wang Huan , Zhang Yingfu , Wang Wentao , Wang Jia , Li Wei
Published: April 2024

Background

The current study reported a case with a history of neuroradiculitis. Within 2 months of the COVID‐19 vaccine, critical Guillain‐Barre Syndrome (GBS) appeared after acute diarrhea, progressive myasthenia, and sudden respiratory and cardiac symptoms.

Methods

The syndrome was addressed with measures, such as endotracheal intubation and cardiopulmonary resuscitation vasoactive drugs. Next, we conducted six cycles of human immunoglobulin treatment (dose of 400 mg/kg·d intravenously for 5 days consecutively) and three times plasma exchange (PE, 30 ml/kg), followed by methylprednisolone sodium succinate. Rehabilitation training was carried out continuously.

Results

The consciousness of the patient returned to normal, wherein he carried out normal communication. The muscle strength recovered gradually but still could not stand independently. Presently, he is recovering at home.

Conclusions

For patients with previous radiculitis, COVID‐19 vaccination may increase the susceptibility to GBS. Thus, it is recommended to extend the vaccination interval for these patients and ensure that any potential increased risk is continually assessed.