bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxygen‐Tolerant Photoredox Catalysis Triggers Nitric Oxide Release for Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Chen Zhenhua , Zheng Shaoqiu , Shen Zhiqiang , Cheng Jian , Xiao Shiyan , Zhang Guoying , Liu Shiyong , Hu Jinming
Published: May 2022

Photoredox catalysis has emerged as a robust tool for chemical synthesis. However, it remains challenging to implement photoredox catalysis under physiological conditions due to the complex microenvironment and the quenching of photocatalyst by biologically relevant molecules such as oxygen. Here, we report that UV‐absorbingN,N′‐dinitroso‐1,4‐phenylenediamine derivatives can be selectively activated byfac‐Ir(ppy)3photocatalyst within micellar nanoparticles under visible light irradiation (e.g., 500 nm) through photoredox catalysis in aerated aqueous solutions to form quinonediimine (QDI) residues with concomitant release of NO. Notably, the formation of QDI derivatives can actively scavenge the reactive oxygen species generated byfac‐Ir(ppy)3, thus avoiding oxygen quenching of the photocatalyst. Further, we exemplify that the oxygen‐tolerant photoredox catalysis‐mediated NO release can not only kill planktonic bacteria in vitro but also efficiently treat MRSA infections in vivo.
Role of Nanoscale Roughness and Polarity in Odd–Even Effect of Self‐Assembled Monolayers
Authors: Du Chuanshen , Wang Zhengjia , Chen Jiahao , Martin Andrew , Raturi Dhruv , Thuo Martin
Published: May 2022

The dependency of substrate roughness on wetting properties of self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) has been studied extensively, but most previous studies used limited selection of probing liquid and range of surface roughness. These studies disregarded the limit to observation of sub‐nanometer odd–even parity effect, hence are inconclusive. In this work we report the role of solvent polarity on the roughness‐dependency of wetting behavior of SAMs by studying static con‐tact angle of a variety of probing liquids, with different polarities, on SAMs formed on Ag‐based substrate with different surface morphology. By overlapping the roughness ranges with previous studies on Au, the limitation of surface roughness (RMS=1 nm) to observation of the odd–even effect using water as probing liquid was confirmed, but other probing liquid yielded different roughness‐dependent behaviors, with more polar solvent showing more roughness‐dependent behavior. Based on these observations, we concluded that there exists a phase‐transition like behavior in SAMs due to substrate roughness and molecule chain length, but whose determination is dependent on the probing liquid.
Enantioselective (8+3) Cycloadditions by Activation of Donor–Acceptor Cyclopropanes Employing Chiral Brønsted Base Catalysis
Authors: McLeod David A. , Thøgersen Mathias Kirk , Barløse Casper Larsen , Skipper Mette Louise , Obregón Erlaitz Basabe , Jørgensen Karl Anker
Published: May 2022

A novel enantioselective (8+3) cycloaddition between donor–acceptor cyclopropanes and heptafulvenoids catalysed by a chiral bifunctional Brønsted base is described. Importantly, the reaction, which leverages an anionic activation strategy, is divergent from prototypical Lewis‐acid activation protocols. A series of cyclopropylketones react with tropones affording the desired (8+3) cycloadducts in high yield and enantiomeric excess. For barbiturate substituted heptafulvenes, the (8+3) cycloaddition with cyclopropylketones proceeds in good yield, excellent diastereoselectivity and high enantiomeric excess. The experimental work is supported by DFT calculations, which indicate that the bifunctional organocatalyst activates both the donor–acceptor cyclopropane and tropone; the reaction proceeds in a step‐wise manner with the ring‐closure being the stereodetermining step.
Selenylation Chemistry Suitable for On‐Plate Parallel and On‐DNA Library Synthesis Enabling High‐Throughput Medicinal Chemistry
Authors: Xu Hongtao , Wang Yan , Dong Hewei , Zhang Yiyuan , Gu Yuang , Zhang Shuning , Meng Yu , Li Jie , Shi Xiao Jie , Ji Qun , Liu Lili , Ma Peixiang , Ma Fei , Yang Guang , Hou Wei
Published: May 2022

Click chemistry is a concept wherein modular synthesis is used for rapid functional discovery. To this end, continuous discovery of clickable chemical transformations is the pillar to support the development of this field. This report details the development of a clickable C3‐H selenylation of indole that is suitable for on‐plate parallel and DNA‐encoded library (SeDEL) synthesis via bioinspired LUMO activation strategy. This reaction is modular, robust and highly site‐selective, and it features a simple and mild reaction system (catalyzed by nonmetallic B(C6F5)3at room temperature), high yields and excellent functional group compatibility. Using this method, a library of 1350 indole‐selenides was parallel synthesized in an efficient and practical manner, enabling the rapid identification of3 aias a promising compound with nanomolar antiproliferative activity in cancer cells via in situ phenotypic screening. These results indicate the great potential of this new clickable selenylation reaction in high‐throughput medicinal chemistry and chemical biology.
Spatiotemporal Mapping of Efficient Chiral Induction by Helicene‐Type Additives in Copolymer Thin Films
Authors: Morgenroth Marius , Scholz Mirko , Guy Laure , Oum Kawon , Lenzer Thomas
Published: May 2022

We observed efficient induction of chirality in polyfluorene copolymer thin films by mixing with helicene‐type chiral additives based on the dibenzo[c,h]acridine motif. Images obtained from circular dichroism (CD) and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) microscopy provide information about the chiral arrangements in the thin films with diffraction‐limited resolution. The CD signal shows a characteristic dependence on the film thickness, which supports a supramolecular origin of the strong chiral response of the copolymer. In particular, we demonstrate the discrimination between films of opposite chirality based on their ultrafast transient chiral response through the use of femtosecond broadband CD spectroscopy and a newly developed setup for transient CPL spectroscopy with 28 ps time resolution. A systematic variation of the enantiomeric excess of the chiral additive shows that the “Sergeants and Soldiers” concept and “Majority Rules” are not obeyed.
Carbon Dioxide Capture at Nucleophilic Hydroxide Sites in Oxidation‐Resistant Cyclodextrin‐Based Metal–Organic Frameworks**
Authors: Zick Mary E. , Pugh Suzi M. , Lee Jung‐Hoon , Forse Alexander C. , Milner Phillip J.
Published: May 2022

Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) from industrial point sources and direct air capture are necessary to combat global climate change. A particular challenge faced by amine‐based sorbents—the current leading technology—is poor stability towards O2. Here, we demonstrate that CO2 chemisorption in γ‐cylodextrin‐based metal–organic frameworks (CD‐MOFs) occurs via HCO3− formation at nucleophilic OH− sites within the framework pores, rather than via previously proposed pathways. The new framework KHCO3 CD‐MOF possesses rapid and high‐capacity CO2 uptake, good thermal, oxidative, and cycling stabilities, and selective CO2 capture under mixed gas conditions. Because of its low cost and performance under realistic conditions, KHCO3 CD‐MOF is a promising new platform for CCS. More broadly, our work demonstrates that the encapsulation of reactive OH− sites within a porous framework represents a potentially general strategy for the design of oxidation‐resistant adsorbents for CO2 capture.
Synergistically enhanced solar light‐driven degradation of hazardous food colorants by ultrasonically derived MgFe2O4/S‐doped g‐C3N4 nanocomposite: A Z‐scheme system‐based heterojunction approach
Authors: Pratibha  , Rajput Jaspreet Kaur
Published: May 2022

Magnesium ferrite/sulfur‐doped graphitic nitride (MFO/SCNNS) heterostructure has been developed via sonication‐assisted deposition of zero‐dimensional MFO over the surface of two‐dimensional SCN nanosheets. Additionally, the prepared nanocomposite material has been characterized by several analytical characterization techniques including XRD, Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM), selected‐area electron diffraction (SAED), energy‐dispersive spectrometry (EDS), Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET), vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), UV–Vis. spectroscopy, electron spin resonance(ESR), and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) which indicated the existence of strong interfacial interactions via heterojunction formation between MFO and SCNNS. The as prepared nanocomposite, especially MFO:SCNNS (1:1) (having 1:1 mass ratio of MFO to SCNNS), offered impressive photo‐response for the complete degradation of Erythrosine B and Indigo Carmine within 30 min under direct solar light irradiation. The enhanced photoactivity of the MFO:SCNNS (1:1) was also confirmed by the photoluminescence, photocurrent and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The Mott–Schottky analysis also depicts the formation of p‐n heterojunction at the interface of MFO and SCNNS, responsible for the enhanced photoactivity. Additionally, the degradation process has also been studied using mass spectrometry, UV–Vis, and ESR spectral analysis. The trapping experiments were also conducted to confirm the formation of active radical species during the photodegradation reaction. Furthermore, the nanocomposite photocatalytic material offered excellent stability and reusability and thus can serve as an effective candidate for environmental remediation application such as real waste water treatment.
Local divergence and obstacles to spur inclusive coastal development in Iloilo Province, the Philippines
Authors: Andriesse Edo
Published: May 2022

This purpose of this article is to demonstrate (1) how growing seaweed in the central Philippines is affected by multifaceted local dynamics and (2) how it is also dependent on the complementary livelihood strategies of in situ and ex situ diversification. This article explores the livelihood trajectories of 45 households that were all engaged in growing seaweed in 2015. Surveys and semi‐structured interviews were conducted with households and key informants in two municipalities. Results reveal a process of livelihood divergence. While in one municipality growing seaweed has become a relative success, virtually all households in the other municipality have had to stop growing seaweed, returned to fishing, and remained poor. The reasons for this divergence can be found in the spheres of environmental challenges, value chain governance dynamics, and local coastal governance. Three implications are put forward that could improve the inclusiveness of coastal development in the Philippines and beyond.
Purification and characterization of a chitinase from Aeromonas media CZW001 as a biocatalyst for producing chitinpentaose and chitinhexaose
Authors: Ding Zhiwen , Li Tian , Chen Meng , Fang Yaowei , Hou Xiaoyue , Yang Gaung , Lu Jing , Ye Qinwen , Zhu Rongjun , He Fuxiang , Xia Mengjie , Liu Shu
Published: May 2022

Developing chitinase suitable for the bioconversion of chitin to chitin oligosaccharides has attracted significant attention due to its benefits in environmental protection. In this study, chitinase from Aeromonas media CZW001 (AmChi) was purified and characterized. The molecular weight of AmChi was approximately 40 kDa. AmChi exhibited maximum catalytic activity at pH 8.0 with an optimum temperature of 55°C and showed broad stability between 15 and 65°C and between pH 5.0 and 9.0. AmChi was activated by Mg2+, Na+, and K+ and inhibited by Hg+, Co2+, Fe2+, Ca2+, Ag+, Zn2+, and EDTA. The main products of AmChi on colloidal chitin were chitinhexaose and chitinpentaose. AmChi had better substrate specificity for powdered chitin than colloidal chitin and had a higher catalytic efficiency toward (GlcNAc)5 than colloidal chitin. AmChi inhibited fungal growth in a dose‐dependent manner. These results suggest that AmChi could be used for the enzymatic degradation of chitin to produce chitinhexaose and chitinpentaose, which have several industrial applications.
The financial and green effects of cultural values on mission drifts in European social enterprises
Authors: Esposito Paolo , Doronzo Emanuele , Dicorato Spiridione Lucio
Published: May 2022

The sustainable social enterprises (SEs) literature shows that SEs have to simultaneously pursue economic, social, and environmental aims. However, tensions between these objectives can make this a challenging task and lead towards mission drift. This work investigates if the cultural dimension can forecast the mission drift. We empirically analyze this relationship in three stages. In the first stage, we identify a homogeneous dataset of 287 sustainable SEs from seven EU countries from 2011 to 2020. Then, in the second stage, we apply the data envelopment analysis (DEA) methodology to calculate the efficiency of the SEs. An efficient SE has to simultaneously achieve social, environmental, and economic aims. We calculate a proxy of the mission drift and generate a dichotomous category variable that assigns value 1 to the SE not affected by mission drift, 0 otherwise. In the last stage, we implement the 2SLS logistic regression between the variable that identifies the SEs affected by mission drift and three cultural dimensions: avoidance of uncertainty, masculinity, and short‐term orientation.
Percutaneous approach to left ventricular assist device decommissioning
Authors: Moroni Francesco , Shah Keyur B. , Quader Mohammed A. , Klein Katherine , Smallfield Melissa C. , Parris Kendall E. , Gertz Zachary M.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To assess the outcomes of a single‐center experience with percutaneous left ventricular assist device (LVAD) decommissioning.

Background

Patients with LVADs may eventually require their removal, either due to recovery of left ventricular function or recurrent complications. Traditionally, withdrawal of LVAD support has been managed with surgical device explantation, which carries significant procedural risks. Transcatheter LVAD decommissioning, with outflow graft occlusion and driveline transection, has recently been described as an alternative to surgical removal.

Methods

Here, we report on a retrospective cohort of five consecutive cases treated with transcatheter LVAD decommissioning.

Results

The procedure was effective in all cases, and no patient experienced procedure‐related complications. At midterm follow‐up, the three patients who had myocardial function recovery were alive and had not experienced heart failure‐related symptoms or complications.

Conclusion

Percutaneous LVAD decommissioning appears to be a safe and effective approach to LVAD treatment discontinuation.
Dynamics of Reaction‐Induced Changes of Model‐Type Iron Oxide Phases in the CO2‐Fischer‐Tropsch‐Synthesis
Authors: Arinchtein Aleks , Ye Meng‐Yang , Yang Qingxin , Kreyenschulte Carsten , Wagner Andreas , Frisch Marvin , Brückner Angelika , Kondratenko Evgenii , Kraehnert Ralph
Published: May 2022

Iron‐based catalysts are employed in CO2‐FTS due to their ability to convert CO2 into CO in a first step and their selectivity towards higher hydrocarbons in a second CO hydrogenation step. According to the literature, iron carbides represent the active phase for hydrocarbon formation and are claimed to emerge in the presence of CO. We propose nanostructured FeOx films as model systems to assess information about the complex phase transformations during CO2‐FTS. Mesoporous hematite, ferrihydrite, maghemite, maghemite/magnetite films were exposed to CO2‐FTS atmospheres at 20 bar and 300 °C. Up to three distinct phases were observed depending on the time‐on‐stream (TOS): a sintered maghemite/magnetite phase, a carbidic core‐shell structure, and a low‐crystalline, needle‐type oxide phase. Our findings indicate that the formation of an intermediary maghemite/magnetite phase, predominant after short TOS (30 h), precedes the evolution of the carbide phase. Yet, even after prolonged TOS (185 h), no full conversion into a bulk carbide is observed.
Dibenzophenazine‐Based TADF Emitters as Dual Electrochromic and Electroluminescence Materials
Authors: Zimmermann Crocomo Paola , Okazaki Masato , Hosono Takumi , Minakata Satoshi , Takeda Youhei , Data Przemyslaw
Published: May 2022

Previous work has reported the synthesis of donor–acceptor–donor molecules based on dibenzophenazine acceptor group, presenting thermally activated delayed fluorescent (TADF) properties and their application in the assembly of highly efficient electroluminescent devices. Herein, we focus on the characterisation of charge carrier species through UV‐Vis‐NIR spectroelectrochemical and potentiostatic EPR techniques, in addition to the investigation of electropolymerisation properties of some compounds depicted in this study. The promising electrochromic features of both small molecules and conjugated polymers led to the assembly and investigation of electrochromic devices, evidencing the materials’ versatility, applied in such different approaches as electrochromic windows and electroluminescent devices. Furthermore, the assembled OLEDs provided high efficiencies, with small roll‐off, EQEs up to 20.5 % and luminance values up to 85 000 cd/m2.
Flow Synthesis of Single and Mixed Metal Oxides
Authors: Campbell Zachary S. , Baro Steven , Gao Yunfei , Li Fanxing , Abolhasani Milad
Published: May 2022

A generalizable and versatile microfluidic approach for facile synthesis of a wide range of metal oxide microparticles using atypical metal‐organic precursors is reported. Microparticles of three single oxide materials, zinc(II) oxide, tin(IV) oxide, and cerium(IV) oxide, as well as a binary rare earth mixed oxide, lanthanum(III) praseodymium(III) oxide, are synthesized in flow. The tin(IV) oxide is shown to vary in composition from 14.2 % to 0 % orthorhombic phase at annealing temperatures ranging from 500 °C to 900 °C, while the lanthanum(III) praseodymium(III) oxide forms at a relatively low temperature of ∼700 °C.
Implementing patient navigation programs: Considerations and lessons learned from the Alliance to Advance Patient‐Centered Cancer Care
Authors: Ver Hoeve Elizabeth S. , Simon Melissa A. , Danner Sankirtana M. , Washington Antonio J. , Coples Susan D. , Percac‐Lima Sanja , Whited Emma C. , Paskett Electra D. , Naughton Michelle J. , Gray Darrell M. , Wenzel Jennifer A. , Zabora James R. , Hassoon Ahmed , Tolbert Elliott E. , Calhoun Elizabeth , Barton Debra L. , Friese Christopher R. , Titler Marita G. , Hamann Heidi A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Six multidisciplinary cancer centers were selected and funded by the Merck Foundation (2017‐2021) to collaborate in the Alliance to Advance Patient‐Centered Cancer Care (“Alliance”), an initiative to improve patient access, minimize health disparities, and enhance the quality of patient‐centered cancer care. These sites share their insights on implementation and expansion of their patient navigation efforts.

Methods

Patient navigation represents an evidence‐based health care intervention designed to enhance patient‐centered care and care coordination. Investigators at 6 National Cancer Institute‐designated cancer centers outline their approaches to reducing health care disparities and synthesize their efforts to ensure sustainability and successful transferability in the management of patients with cancer and their families in real‐world health care settings.

Results

Insights are outlined within the context of patient navigation program effectiveness and supported by examples from Alliance cancer center sites: 1) understand the patient populations, particularly underserved and high‐risk patients; 2) capitalize on the existing infrastructure and institutional commitment to support and sustain patient navigation; and 3) build capacity by mobilizing community support outside of the cancer center.

Conclusions

This process‐level article reflects the importance of collaboration and the usefulness of partnering with other cancer centers to share interdisciplinary insights while undergoing intervention development, implementation, and expansion. These collective insights may be useful to staff at other cancer centers that look to implement, enhance, or evaluate the effectiveness of their patient navigation interventions.
Multidisciplinary integrated care pathway for von Hippel–Lindau disease
Authors: Wolters Wendy P. G. , Dreijerink Koen M. A. , Giles Rachel H. , van der Horst‐Schrivers Anouk N. A. , van Nesselrooij Bernadette , Zandee Wouter T. , Timmers Henri J. L. M. , Seute Tatjana , de Herder Wouter W. , Verrijn Stuart Annemarie A. , Kilic Emine , Brinkman Willem M. , Zondervan Patricia J. , Vandertop W. Peter , Daniels Anthony B. , Wolbers Tijmen , Links Thera P. , van Leeuwaarde Rachel S.
Published: May 2022

BACKGROUND

Clinical pathways are care plans established to describe essential steps in the care of patients with a specific clinical problem. They translate (inter)national guidelines into local applicable protocols and clinical practice. The purpose of this article is to establish a multidisciplinary integrated care pathway for specialists and allied health care professionals in caring for individuals with von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) disease.

METHODS

Using a modified Delphi consensus‐making process, a multidisciplinary panel from 5 Dutch University Medical Centers produced an integrated care pathway relating to the provision of care for patients with VHL by medical specialists, specialized nurses, and associated health care professionals. Patient representatives cocreated the pathway and contributed quality criteria from the patients' perspective.

RESULTS

The panel agreed on recommendations for the optimal quality of care for individuals with a VHL gene mutation. These items were the starting point for the development of a patient care pathway. With international medical guidelines addressing the different VHL‐related disorders, this article presents a patient care pathway as a flowchart that can be incorporated into VHL expertise clinics or nonacademic treatment clinics.

CONCLUSIONS

Medical specialists (internists, urologists, neurosurgeons, ophthalmologists, geneticists, medical oncologists, neurologists, gastroenterologists, pediatricians, and ear‐nose‐throat specialists) together with specialized nurses play a vital role alongside health care professionals in providing care to people affected by VHL and their families. This article presents a set of consensus recommendations, supported by organ‐specific guidelines, for the roles of these practitioners in order to provide optimal VHL care. This care pathway can form the basis for the development of comprehensive, integrated pathways for multiple neoplasia syndromes.
COVID‐19: Machine learning for safe transportation
Authors: Sankari Subbiah , Varshini Subramaniam Sankaran , Aafia Shifana Savvas Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Entire world has been affected by Covid‐19 pandemic. In fighting against the Covid‐19, social distancing and face mask have a paramount role in freezing the spread of the disease. People are asked to limit their interactions with each other, to reduce the spread of the disease. Here an alert system has to be maintained to caution people traveling in vehicles. Our proposed solution will work primarily on computer vision. The video stream is captured using a camera. Footage is processed using single shot detector algorithm for face mask detection. Second, YOLOv3 object detection algorithm is used to detect if social distancing is maintained or not inside the vehicle. If passengers do not follow the safety rules such as wearing a mask at any point of the time in the whole journey, alarm/alert is given via buzzer/speaker. This ensures that people abide by the safety rules without affecting their daily norms of transportation. It also helps the government to keep the situation under control.
IoT‐TDMA: A performance evaluation ofTDMAscheme for wireless sensor networks with Internet of Things
Authors: Kosunalp Selahattin , Kaya Yunus
Published: May 2022

This article focuses on the design and implementation of an improved version of TDMA scheme for wireless sensor networks (WSNs) exploiting the Internet of Things (IoT) phenomena. The main motivation behind this work is to create an environment for WSNs to benefit from IoT opportunities. An extensive review of the state‐of‐the‐art medium access control (MAC) approaches proposed for IoT is carried out underlying their basic principles and features. An adaptation of TDMA strategy, called IoT‐TDMA, is proposed to enhance the channel performances particularly throughput and latency. To test the performance of IoT‐TDMA practically, a low‐cost node hardware with the capability of Internet connection is essentially designed. IoT‐TDMA has been implemented on real‐world highly scalable single‐hop and multi‐hop topologies. Performance results indicate significant improvements in terms of channel throughput and end‐to‐end delay in comparison to a recently proposed efficient MAC scheme.
A narrative review of psychological theories of post‐traumatic stress disorder, voice hearing, and other psychotic symptoms
Authors: Strachan Laura P. , Paulik Georgie , McEvoy Peter M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Most voice hearers report childhood trauma. Many voice hearers report comorbid post‐traumatic stress symptoms and that the content of their voices (auditory verbal hallucinations) is directly (voices repeat phrases spoken by perpetrators) or indirectly (voice content and trauma is thematically similar) related to their trauma. The factors that maintain trauma‐related voices are unknown, and there is limited research in this area. This study aimed to identify potential maintaining factors of trauma‐related voices by reviewing models of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and positive symptoms of psychosis.

Method

Models of PTSD and positive symptoms were reviewed to identify potential factors that are unique and common to both sets of symptoms.

Results

We reviewed 10 models of PTSD, 4 models of positive symptoms, and 2 trauma‐informed models of voice hearing. One model provided a theoretical explanation of different types of trauma‐related voices. Twenty‐one factors were extracted from 16 theoretical models. No existing model incorporated all these factors.

Discussion

Existing PTSD and positive symptom models present a range of common and unique factors. There may be value in extending existing integrative models to include a broader range of potential factors that could explain different pathways to, and expressions of, trauma‐related voices. A future research agenda is presented to investigate how such an extension could lead to more complete individualized case formulations and targeted treatments.
Does periodontitis influence the risk of COVID‐19? A scoping review
Authors: Ghosh Arunibha , Joseph Betsy , Anil Sukumaran
Published: May 2022

Objective

Research has shown that the novel severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) significantly influences the oral microbiome to expedite systemic diseases by invading harmful oral pathogens near and distant organs. To identify, explore, and map the possible mechanisms underlying periodontitis in severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) cases.

Material and Methods

Relevant articles published from December 2019 to February 2022 were identified and screened using keywords and inclusion criteria from various databases.

Results

This review sheds light on multiple pathways of periodontitis, the spread of periodontal infection and microbial metabolites to the lungs, and the dysregulated immune system with elevated cytokines, reactive oxygen species generation, nuclear DNA damage, and senescence, which have the potential to promote stronger viral attachment to host cells and the onset of COVID‐19 manifestation with increased severity and risk of mortality. In addition, the cytokine connection to SARS‐CoV‐2, T‐cell responses against periodontitis, its connection with COVID‐19, the role of host factors, and periodontal therapy have been discussed.

Conclusions

The relationship between COVID‐19 and periodontitis needs further investigation along with the development of alternative therapies to prevent periodontitis for better management and control of COVID‐19.
A 200 kW high‐efficiency and high‐power density xEV motor controller based on discrete SiC MOSFET devices
Authors: Wang Zhenmin , Luo Bende , Zhan Jinhua , Zhou Hao , Zhan Xubiao , Li Tao , Ye Chunxian , Tian Jiyu
Published: May 2022

As one significant component of the Electric‐Driven System of xEV (all types of electric vehicles), motor controllers have been widely applied and researched. However, the performance of controllers based on Si IGBT is limited due to the characteristics of semiconductors, while the volume and weight of SiC MOSFET modules limit the power density of controllers. Therefore, a scheme for motor controllers based on paralleled discrete SiC MOSFET devices is exhibited in this paper. First, the paper analyzes the current sharing problem of paralleled devices, which is a critical problem limiting the efficiency and power density of the controller. Furthermore, according to the analysis results, a comprehensive optimized scheme for motor controller design is proposed from three aspects of device parameter selection, circuit symmetrical layout, and spatial structure design. The design effectively improves the power density and efficiency of the controller. Finally, this paper carries out simulation analysis and mechanical back‐to‐back tests based on an actual prototype, verifying the effectiveness of the proposed scheme. The test results show that the rated power of the motor controller is up to 200 kW, the power density is more than 50 kW/L (and 50 kW/kg), and the peak efficiency is up to 99.3%.
LncRNA HOXA11‐AS promotes vascular endothelial cell injury in atherosclerosis by regulating the miR‐515‐5p/ROCK1 axis
Authors: Gao Feng , Wang Xiao‐Chen , Luo Zhi‐Dan , Hu Guang‐Quan , Ma Meng‐Qing , Liang Yi , Xu Bang‐Long , Lin Xian‐He
Published: May 2022

Aims

Long non‐coding RNA HOXA11‐AS participated in heart disease. In this study, we aim to evaluate the potential roles of HOXA11‐AS in atherosclerosis and its underlying mechanisms.

Methods and results

The expression levels of HOXA11‐AS in ox‐LDL‐treated HUVECs and arch tissues of high‐fat diet‐fed ApoE−/− mice (n = 10) were assessed by qRT‐PCR. The effects of HOXA11‐AS knockdown on the development of atherosclerosis were evaluated using in vitro and in vivo models. Luciferase reporter and RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays verified the potential relationships between HOXA11‐AS or ROCK1 and miR‐515‐5p. The interactive roles between HOXA11‐AS and miR‐515‐5p and between miR‐515‐5p and ROCK1 were further characterized in ox‐LDL‐treated HUVECs. Our data showed that HOXA11‐AS was significantly up‐regulated (P < 0.001), whereas miR‐515‐5p was dramatically down‐regulated in AS mice tissues (P < 0.001) and ox‐LDL‐treated HUVECs (P < 0.01). Ox‐LDL could induce endothelial injuries by inhibiting cell proliferation (P < 0.001) and SOD synthesis (P < 0.001), promoting apoptosis (P < 0.01), ROS (P < 0.001), and MDA production (P < 0.001), increasing Bax (P < 0.001) and cleaved Caspase‐3 (P < 0.001), and decreasing Bcl‐2 (P < 0.001) and phosphorylated eNOS (P < 0.01). HOXA11‐AS knockdown attenuated endothelial injuries via increasing eNOS phosphorylation. Luciferase assay and RIP results confirmed that miR‐515‐5p is directly bound to HOXA11‐AS and ROCK1. HOXA11‐AS promoted ox‐LDL‐induced HUVECs injury by directly inhibiting miR‐515‐5p from increasing ROCK1 expression and subsequently decreasing the expression and phosphorylation of eNOS. MiR‐515‐5p mimics could partially reverse the effects of HOXA11‐AS knockdown.

Conclusions

HOXA11‐AS contributed to atherosclerotic injuries by directly regulating the miR‐515‐5p/ROCK1 axis. This study provided new evidence that HOXA11‐AS might be a candidate for atherosclerosis therapy.
The double anaerobic threshold in heart failure: MECKI score database overview
Authors: Rovai Sara , Zaffalon Denise , Cittar Marco , Felli Luca Francesco , Salvioni Elisabetta , Galotta Arianna , Mattavelli Irene , Carriere Cosimo , Mapelli Massimo , Merlo Marco , Vignati Carlo , Sinagra Gianfranco , Agostoni Piergiuseppe
Published: May 2022

Aims

In heart failure (HF), anaerobic threshold (AT) may be indeterminable but its value held a relevant prognostic role. AT is evaluated joining three methods: V‐slope, ventilatory equivalent, and end‐tidal methods. The possible non‐concordance between the V‐slope (met AT) and the other two methods (vent AT) has been highlighted in healthy individuals and named double threshold (DT).

Methods and results

We reanalysed 1075 cardiopulmonary exercise tests of HF patients recruited in the Metabolic Exercise test data combined with Cardiac and Kidney Indexes (MECKI) score database. We identified DT in 43% of cases. Met AT precedes vent AT being met–ventΔVO2 221 (interquartile range: 129–319) mL/min. Peak VO2, 1307 ± 485 vs. 1343 ± 446 mL/min (63 ± 17 vs. 63 ± 17 percentage of predicted), was similar between DT+ and DT− patients. Differently, DT+ showed a lower ventilatory vs. carbon dioxide production (VE/VCO2) slope (29.6 ± 6.1 vs. 31.0 ± 6.3), a lower peak exercise end‐tidal oxygen tension (PetO2) 115.3 (111.5–118.9) vs. 116.4 (112.4–120.2) mmHg, and a higher carbon dioxide tension (PetCO2) 34.2 (30.9–37.1) vs. 32.4 (28.7–35.5) mmHg. Vent AT showed a significant higher VO2, 957 ± 318 vs. 719 ± 252 mL/min, VCO2, 939 ± 319 vs. 627 ± 226 mL/min, ventilation, 31.0 ± 8.3 vs. 22.5 ± 6.3 L/min, respiratory exchange ratio, 0.98 ± 0.08 vs. 0.87 ± 0.07, PetO2, 108 (104–112) vs. 105 (101–109) mmHg, PetCO2, 37 (34–40) vs. 36 (33–39) mmHg, and VE/VO2 ratio, 33.5 ± 6.7 vs. 32.6 ± 6.9, but lower VE/VCO2 ratio, 33 (30–37) vs. 36 (32–41), compared with met AT. At 2 year survival by Kaplan–Meier analysis, even adjusted for confounders, DT resulted not associated with survival.

Conclusions

Double threshold is frequently observed in HF patients. DT+ is associated to a decreased ventilatory response during exercise.
Indanone‐Based Copper(II) Molecular Materials as Potential Semiconductors for Optoelectronic Devices
Authors: Sánchez Vergara María Elena , Monzón‐González César R. , Gómez Gómez Mariana , Salcedo Roberto , Corona‐Sánchez Ricardo , Toscano Rubén A. , Álvarez Toledano Cecilio
Published: May 2022

A series of copper(II) molecular materials derived from 2‐benzylidene‐1‐indanones were synthesized in order to investigate the influence of their structure on their optical and semiconductor behavior. The molecular materials were structurally characterized by IR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray diffraction. Additionally, thin films of copper complexes were successfully deposited by thermal evaporation, and the optical and electrical features of films were examined using UV‐vis spectroscopy and current‐voltage measurements, respectively. Subsequently, the structures of copper(II) complexes were optimized by density functional theory (DFT), and the energy values of the single occupied molecular orbital (SOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) were calculated. According the DFT calculations, the copper complexes show fluxional isomerism. Theoretical bandgap values were found to be consistent with those experimentally obtained and showed to be closely related with the p‐semiconductor behavior of copper complexes, which at the same time depends on the substituents in the structure.
Nanomagnet Bioconjugates with anti‐CRP Polyclonal Antibodies as Nanobioprobes for Enhanced Impedimetric Detection of CRP
Authors: Adesina Abiola , Adeniyi Omotayo , Mashazi Philani
Published: May 2022

Selective purification of biological materials for their detection in complex sample matrix is a general challenge for many researchers working in the field of diagnostics. Magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with biological molecules that impart biomolecular selectivity are therefore of major interest as capture probes thus allowing for magnetic separations. Nanoparticles can also be used for the enhanced detection of biomarkers. In this work, an ultrasensitive sandwich‐based impedimetric immunosensor was fabricated for the detection of C‐reactive protein antigen (CRPAg). Stable and oriented immobilization of anti‐CRP monoclonal antibody was achieved onto electrografted phenylethylamine derivatized with succinic anhydride and phenylboronic acid via carbodiimide chemistry. The detection of CRPAg was achieved using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The enhancement of the impedance charge‐transfer resistance (RCT) signal was achieved using the sandwich approach. The anti‐CRP polyclonal antibody was immobilized in an oriented manner onto magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with phenylboronic acid. The increase in the change in charge‐transfer resistance (ΔRCT) values was linearly proportional to the concentration of CRPAg in the range 10 to 200 ng mL−1 covering the clinical range for CRPAg detection and with a detection limit of 0.34 ng mL−1.
Performance assessment of a 10 kW pressurized solid oxide fuel cell integrated with glycerol supercritical water reforming
Authors: Patcharavorachot Yaneeporn , Chatrattanawet Narissara , Saebea Dang , Arpornwichanop Amornchai
Published: May 2022

In this work, the integrated system of pressurized solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) and supercritical water reforming of glycerol was proposed. The syngas from the reforming process has high temperature and pressure and thus, it can be used as fuel for the SOFC. The performance of an integrated system was determined through the Aspen Plus simulator in which the electrochemical equations were also included. The developed model was employed to examine the performance of the integrated system with respect to the wider ranges of operation of the reformer and SOFC. In this work, the desired power output of an SOFC stack is set as 10 kW and thus, the area of an SOFC is determined. A smaller area is required as it normally leads to a lower fabrication cost for the SOFC. The simulation results revealed that the smallest SOFC area can be provided when the reformer is operated at 800°C and 240 atm with a ratio of supercritical water to glycerol as 50 whereas the SOFC operation is at 900°C and 4 atm with the current density as 7000 A/m2. Under these operating conditions, the integrated system can provide the cell voltage, required area, fuel utilization, and SOFC efficiency as 1 V, 1.42 m2, 75% and 61%, respectively. From the exergy analysis, it was found that the compressor, heater, and turbine are the highest exergy destruction units whereas the reformer has the lowest exergy destruction, followed by the SOFC stack.
Synthesis and characterization of cellulose hydrogel/graphene oxide/polyaniline composite for high‐performing supercapacitors
Authors: Ben Hadj Said Marwa , Charradi Khaled , Ahmed Zakarya , Cachet Hubert , Debiemme‐Chouvy Catherine , Alsulami Qana A. , Boufi Sami , Keshk Sherif M. A. S. , Chtourou Radhouane
Published: May 2022

We have synthesized a ternary composite electrode comprising graphene oxide (GO), cellulose hydrogel, and polyaniline (PANi). The composite deposited on a platinum electrode was electrochemically characterized. It was investigated using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge‐discharge, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The ternary composite electrode showed significantly enhanced cycling stability and improved a real capacitance of 980 F g−1 at 10 mV indicating a synergistic effect of cellulose hydrogel on PANi‐GO. We believe the results of this study provide a strong experimental basis for the functioning of supercapacitors.

Highlights

A cellulose hydrogel/GO/PANi composite was synthesized using the polymerization method.

Cellulose hydrogel is crucial for the functioning of the composite.

Cellulose hydrogel composite exhibits superior performances.
Mix-Tool: An Edge-of-Field Approach to Predict Pesticide Mixtures of Concern in Surface Water From Agricultural Crops
Authors: Finizio Antonio , Di Guardo Andrea , Menaballi Luca , Barra Caracciolo Anna , Grenni Paola
Published: May 2022

Current regulation on the authorization of plant protection products (PPPs) in the European Union is limited to the evaluation of ecological risks for the single active substances they contain. However, plant protection treatments in agriculture often consist of PPPs already containing more than one active substance; moreover, each cropped field receives multiple applications per year, leading to complex pesticide mixtures in the environment. Different transport processes lead to a multitude of heterogeneous and potentially toxic substances that, for example, may reach water bodies and act simultaneously on natural freshwater ecosystems. In this context, the development of methodologies and tools to manage risks of pesticides mixtures is imperative to improve the current ecological risk assessment procedures and to avoid further deterioration of ecological quality of natural resources. The present study suggests new procedures for identifying pesticide mixtures of potential concern released from agricultural crops in surface water. The approach follows the European Union regulatory context for the authorization of PPPs in the market (edge-of field risk assessment) and requires the use of Forum for the Co-ordination of pesticide fate models and their Use (FOCUS) models (Step 3 and 4) for calculating the concentrations in surface water of mixture components on a daily basis. Moreover, it uses concentration addition models to calculate the toxic potency of the pesticide mixtures released by a treated crop. To implement this procedure, we developed a simple Microsoft-Excel-based tool. We also considered two case studies (maize and apple tree), representative of Italian agricultural scenarios for annual and perennial crops. Moreover, we compared results with 3 years of monitoring data of surface water bodies of the Lombardia region (northern Italy) where the two crops are largely present. Environ Toxicol Chem 2022;41:2028–2038. © 2022 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Queer Theory from Elsewhere and the Im/Proper Objects of Queer Anthropology
Authors: Weiss Margot
Published: May 2022

What is queer in contemporary transnational queer studies? In this essay, I explore queer as a political‐intellectual orientation and aspirational field animated by its constitutive polarity: between a more constrained queer focused on sex, sexuality, and gender and a more expansive queer that bears an oblique relationship to these more proper objects. I trace how the desire to do justice to our objects of study produces queer’s characteristic inversions, so that when we seek to move “beyond” queer’s proper objects, we find ourselves drawn back into them and inversely, when we seek to center proper subjects of queer, we find ourselves elsewhere and otherwise. I illuminate this queer movement through a conceptual review of recent scholarship in queer anthropology (loosely 2015‐21), drawing out queer as (1) a challenge to categorical legibility, (2) a way to rethink vitalities between bio‐ and necropolitics, (3) a field of political, social, and sensual erotics and desires, and (4) a deconstruction of normative knowledge projects and epistemologies. Throughout, I reflect on anthropology's place in a larger project of a queer theory from (and seeking) an elsewhere.
Construction mode of a Middle Permian sponge reef in the Changning–Menglian Belt, western Yunnan, China
Authors: Yan Zhen , Jin Xiaochi , Wang Haifeng , Huang Hao , Zheng Jianbin
Published: May 2022

The Changning–Menglian Belt in western Yunnan, China has long been acknowledged as a major suture zone of the Palaeo‐Tethys in south‐east Asia. Although bearing a wealth of environmental information for this vanished ocean, the Permo‐Carboniferous limestones of seamount resemblance in this belt have only been sketchily studied heretofore in terms of their sedimentary features. This study presents a detailed investigation on a Middle Permian Archaeolithoporella‐microbial‐sponge reef in the Damingshan Formation of these limestones. This reef could be ascendingly subdivided into five parts according to its petrographic and sedimentolotgic properties. The first, third, and fifth parts are characterized by the mixture of Archaeolithoporella‐sponge boundstone, sponge cementstone, microbial boundstone, and skeletal wackestone. They are interpreted to be constructed in a moderate‐energy environment through the following processes: sponges in clusters were partly encrusted by Archaeolithoporella, and mostly toppled over after death; whereafter, spaces within frameworks formed by sponges and/or Archaeolithoporella were occluded by syndepositional cements; during the processes, sponge clusters were bound together by microbial domes, and both acted as bafflers that trapped sediments. In contrast, the construction of the second and fourth parts occurred in a high‐energy environment and is almost devoid of microbial contribution: sponges that were encrusted by Archaeolithoporella toppled over posthumously, and then spaces among them were filled by syndepositional cements, ultimately forming Archaeolithoporella‐sponge boundstone. The construction mode of the studied reef, especially sponge toppling and microbial domal frameworks in‐between sponge clusters, differs from that of most coeval sponge reefs, in which the framework is characterized by erect sponges and microbial encrustations on Archaeolithoporella. Our work not only enriches the sedimentary data of limestones in the Changning–Menglian Belt, but also would hopefully deepen the understanding of the growth model of Permian sponge reefs.