bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epoxy‐based coatings containing bentonite and ZnO obtained by modified solution blow spinning
Authors: Zárate Raquel P. L. , Veras Tiago N. , Nascimento Jordan M. , Santos Ieda M. G. , Medeiros Eliton S.
Published: July 2024

Active coatings have been extensively studied due to their ability to contain active substances that can promote ab/adsorption and/or catalysis of compounds of interest. In this work, solution blow spraying (SBSp), which is a modification of the solution blow spinning (SBS), was used to produce active coatings via a multistep process: The first stage consisted in applying a cross‐linkable polymer layer (epoxy) to a metallic substrate, followed by heating at 50°C to promote partial cross‐linking; in the second step, particle suspensions containing zinc oxide (ZnO) and/or bentonite/ZnO were sprayed over the resin layer so that particles adhered to the surface rather than embedded in, what would reduce surface activity. Primarily, rheology of the suspensions and resin cure were characterized by rheometry and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), respectively. Infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the ZnO synthesized by the Pechini method was performed. Coatings were analyzed by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and x‐ray diffraction (XRD). Based on the suspension studies, the optimized particle concentration was found to be 10 wt% in water. Thermal analysis of resin showed the ideal time and temperature of 16 min or 33 min at 50°C. Using these variables, active coatings with ZnO and bentonite/ZnO particles exposed to the surface were successful produced by SBSp.
Novel 1,2,4‐triazole derivatives containing the naphthalene moiety as selective butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors: Design, synthesis, and biological evaluation
Authors: Koçak Aslan Ebru , Sezer Aysima , Tüylü Küçükkılınç Tuba , Palaska Erhan
Published: July 2024

Butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) is considered a promising therapeutic target for treating Alzheimer's disease due to the increase in the levels and activity of BChE in the late stage of the disease. In this study, a series of novel 1,2,4‐triazole derivatives bearing the naphthalene moiety linked to the benzothiazole, thiazole, and phenyl scaffolds via amid chain were designed and synthesized as potential and selective BChE inhibitors. The results of the inhibitory activity studies revealed that most of these compounds exhibited significant inhibitor potency on BChE. Compounds 35a (0.025 ± 0.01 μM) and 37a (0.035 ± 0.01 μM) displayed the most potent inhibitory activity, with excellent selectivity against BChE over acetylcholinesterase (SIBChE, 23,686 and 16,936, respectively) among the target compounds. The kinetics studies revealed that these compounds behaved with noncompetitive BChE inhibitors. Molecular docking studies indicated that 35a and 37a fit well into the active side of BChE. In addition, 35a and 37a also had the lowest cytotoxicity for human neuroblastoma cells (SH‐SY5Y), potential antioxidant capacity, moderate inhibition potency on amyloid‐β1‐42 aggregation, and significant neuroprotective effect against SH‐SY5Y cell injury induced by H2O2 and amyloid‐β1‐42. All results suggest that these compounds might be considered as promising new lead compounds in the drug discovery process for the treatment of late‐stage Alzheimer's disease.
Effect of the Imidazole π‐Extension on TADF Emitters in Electrochemiluminescence
Authors: Pelorosso Elisa , Pavan Giulio , Scattolin Thomas , Orian Laura , Antonello Sabrina , Demitri Nicola , Aliprandi Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Already known molecules which exhibit good electrochemiluminescence (ECL) efficiencies and high photoluminescence quantum yields (PLQY) have been structurally modified in order to increase their performance. The followed strategy is to stiffen the structures to limit the rotational and vibrational freedom degrees and favour radiative decay processes once excited. Molecules under investigation consist of donor‐acceptor systems in which the acceptor fraction is a benzonitrile with an imidazole in para position, while the donor fraction consists of four diphenylamine (NPh2) or 3,6‐di(tert‐butyl)‐9H‐carbazole (t‐BuCz) groups in the remaining positions on the central benzene ring. Therefore, in order to stiffen these systems and restrict the intramolecular rotations (RIR), the imidazole in the para position has been replaced with more extended π‐systems, i. e., benzimidazole and phenanthro[9,10‐d]imidazole. The restriction of the intramolecular rotation can be clearly observed by 1H NMR analysis. We expected to observe an increase in ECL efficiency and PLQY with the rigidity. Surprisingly, we observed a generally opposite trend: molecules with the smallest imidazole fraction showed the best performance in ECL and higher PLQY. Notably, NPh2 derivatives with benzimidazole and phenanthro[9,10‐d]imidazole showed an hypsochromic shift of the emission spectra with concomitant increase of the PLQY as the solvent polarity increases.
A primer for junior trainees: Recognition of RNA modifications by RNA‐binding proteins
Authors: Angelo Murphy , Bhargava Yash , Aoki Scott Takeo
Published: July 2024

The complexity of RNA cannot be fully expressed with the canonical A, C, G, and U alphabet. To date, over 170 distinct chemical modifications to RNA have been discovered in living systems. RNA modifications can profoundly impact the cellular outcomes of messenger RNAs (mRNAs), transfer and ribosomal RNAs, and noncoding RNAs. Additionally, aberrant RNA modifications are associated with human disease. RNA modifications are a rising topic within the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology. The role of RNA modifications in gene regulation, disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic applications increasingly captures the attention of the scientific community. This review aims to provide undergraduates, junior trainees, and educators with an appreciation for the significance of RNA modifications in eukaryotic organisms, alongside the skills required to identify and analyze fundamental RNA–protein interactions. The pumilio RNA‐binding protein and YT521‐B homology (YTH) family of modified RNA‐binding proteins serve as examples to highlight the fundamental biochemical interactions that underlie the specific recognition of both unmodified and modified ribonucleotides, respectively. By instilling these foundational, textbook concepts through practical examples, this review contributes an analytical toolkit that facilitates engagement with RNA modifications research at large.
Impact of trazodone once‐a‐day on quality of life and functional recovery in adults with major depressive disorder: A prospective, observational study
Authors: Tellone Valeria , Markovic Oto , Strashimirova Milena , Sani Gabriele , Lenderking William R. , Margolis Mary Kay , Fallone Raffaella , Quarchioni Elisa , Cattaneo Agnese , Comandini Alessandro
Published: July 2024

Background

Health‐related quality of life (HRQL) is an important goal for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), but whether antidepressants improve HRQL in these patients is unclear. Here, we describe the real‐world effects of trazodone once‐a‐day (TzOAD) and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) treatments on HRQL and functioning in adults with MDD.

Methods

This 8‐week prospective, observational, open‐label, multicenter study was conducted in adults with moderate or severe MDD for whom TzOAD or SSRI were prescribed as monotherapy. The primary outcome was life enjoyment and satisfaction assessed via the patient‐reported Quality‐of‐Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (Q‐LES‐Q‐SF) from baseline to week 8. Secondary outcomes included change in Q‐LES‐Q‐SF from baseline to weeks 1 and 2; severity of depressive symptoms using the Montgomery Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) and sleep disturbance via the PROMIS SF‐SD 8b questionnaire at weeks 1, 2, and 8; and overall functioning via the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS), hedonic capacity using the Snaith–Hamilton Pleasure Scale (SHAPS), and cognitive dysfunction using the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire (PDQ‐5) at baseline and week 8.

Results

The study included 208 adults with MDD (mean [SD] age = 50.2 [14.3] years; 68.6% female; 98.4% White). Life enjoyment and satisfaction improved from baseline to week 8 for both treatment groups: Q‐LES‐Q‐SF mean (SD) scores were 27.5 (20.4) for the SSRI group and 39.0 (22.1) for the TzOAD group. Depressive symptoms and sleep disturbances also reduced from baseline to week 8: MADRS (SSRI, −15.7 [8.3]; TzOAD, −21.0 [9.8]); PROMIS SF‐SD 8b (SSRI, −9.9 [12.6]; TzOAD, −22.0 [12.6]). Mean change scores in Q‐LES‐Q‐SF, MADRS, and PROMIS SF‐SD 8b improved as early as week 1 in both groups. Mean scores also improved from baseline to week 8 on SDS (SSRI, −9.2 [7.4]; TzOAD, −14.3 [7.5]), SHAPS (SSRI, −6.6 [4.3]; TzOAD, −8.3 [4.4]), and PDQ‐5 (SSRI, −5.8 [4.5]; TzOAD, −7.7 [5.0]).

Conclusions

In adults with MDD who received TzOAD or SSRIs, overall and individual HQRL domains improved rapidly and in parallel with improvements in depressive symptoms, with a slightly greater improvement observed in the TzOAD group.
New Prospective Insecticidal Agents Based on N‐(arylcarbamothioyl)arylmide Derivatives Against Spodoptera frugiperda: Design, Synthesis, Toxicological, Biological, Biomedical Studies and Antibacterial Activity
Authors: Khalaf Mai M. , Abd El‐Lateef Hany M. , Gouda Mohamed , Almarri Mohammed N. , Abdelhamid Antar A. , AL‐Ghamdi Saleh , Amer Amer A. , Gad Mohamed A.
Published: July 2024

In this work, a novel series of N‐(arylcarbamothioyl)arylmide) 2–11 were synthesized by treating One‐Pot three‐multicomponent of Aroyl chloride, ammonium isothiocyanate and amine compounds under refluxing conditions. Using spectroscopic methods, the chemical structure of the novelty developed compounds were investigated. After five days, the proposed derivatives’ insecticidal bioassay was assessed using the median lethal concentration (LC50) against the second & fourth larvae of Spodoptera frugiperda as toxicity agents. The findings showed that, to varying degrees, every tested substance exerted insecticidal effects on S. frugiperda larvae in both of their instars. Compound 9 was the most poisonous of them all, having an LC50 against larvae in their second and fourth instars of 60.45 and 123.21 mg/L, respectively. Additionally, a few biological and biochemical characteristics of the substances that were generated in a lab setting were also looked at. Furthermore, this work discusses how to discover novel compounds that may one day be employed as insecticidal agents. Finally, all the designed components were monitored for their antibacterial effectiveness toward both Gram‐positive & Gram‐negative bacteria.
Immune landscape of hepatocellular carcinoma: From dysregulation of the immune responses to the potential immunotherapies
Authors: Pourbagheri‐Sigaroodi Atieh , Momeny Majid , Rezaei Nima , Fallah Fatemeh , Bashash Davood
Published: July 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) presents a considerable global health burden due to its late diagnosis and high morbidity. The liver's specific anatomical and physiological features expose it to various antigens, requiring precise immune regulation. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that a comprehensive overview of the interactions between the immune system and gut microbiota in the development of HCC, as well as the relevant therapeutic approaches are discussed. Dysregulation of immune compartments within the liver microenvironment drives HCC pathogenesis, characterized by elevated regulatory cells such as regulatory T cells (Tregs), myeloid‐derived suppressor cells, and M2 macrophages as well as suppressive molecules, alongside reduced number of effector cells like T cells, natural killer cells, and M1 macrophages. Dysbiosis of gut microbiota also contributes to HCC by disrupting intestinal barrier integrity and triggering overactivated immune responses. Immunotherapy approaches, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors, have exhibited promise in HCC management, yet adoptive cell therapy and cancer vaccination research are in the early steps with relatively less favorable outcomes. Further understanding of immune dysregulation, gut microbiota involvement, and therapeutic combination strategies are essential for advancing precision immunotherapy in HCC.
Regioselective Deacetylation in Nucleosides and Derivatives
Authors: Grabbe Charis , Cai Li
Published: July 2024

Nucleoside analogues are a promising class of natural compounds in the pharmaceutical industry, and many antiviral, antibacterial and anticancer drugs have been created through structural modification of nucleosides scaffold. Acyl protecting groups, especially the acetyl group, play an important role in the protection of hydroxy groups in nucleoside synthesis and modification; consequently, numerous methodologies have been put forth for the acetylation of free nucleosides. However, for nucleosides that contain different O‐ and N‐based functionalities, selective deprotection of the acetyl group(s) in nucleosides has been studied little, despite its practical significance in simplifying the preparation of partially or differentially substituted nucleoside intermediates. In this mini‐review, recent approaches for regioselective deacetylation in acetylated nucleosides and their analogues are summarized and evaluated. Different regioselectivities (primary ester, secondary ester, full de‐O‐acetylation, and de‐N‐acetylation) are summarized and discussed in each section.
Conformational Selection in Enzyme‐Catalyzed Depolymerization of Bio‐based Polyesters
Authors: Lopez‐Lorenzo Ximena , Ranjani Ganapathy , Syrén Per‐Olof
Published: July 2024

Enzymatic degradation of polymers holds promise for advancing towards a bio‐based economy. However, the bulky nature of polymers presents challenges in accessibility for biocatalysts, hindering depolymerization reactions. Beyond the impact of crystallinity, polymer chains can reside in different conformations affecting binding efficiency to the enzyme active site. We previously showed that the gauche and trans chain conformers associated with crystalline and amorphous regions of the synthetic polyethylene terephthalate (PET) display different affinity to PETase, thus affecting the depolymerization rate. However, structural‐function relationships for biopolymers remain poorly understood in biocatalysis. In this study, we explored the biodegradation of previously synthesized bio‐polyesters made from a rigid bicyclic chiral terpene‐based diol and copolymerized with various renewable diesters. Herein, four of those polyesters spanning from semi‐aromatic to aliphatic were subjected to enzymatic degradations in concert with induced‐fit docking (IFD) analyses. The monomer yield following enzymatic depolymerization by IsPETase S238 A, Dura and LCC ranged from 2 % to 17 % without any further pre‐treatment step. The degradation efficiency was found to correlate with the extent of matched substrate and enzyme conformations revealed by IFD, regardless of the actual reaction temperature employed. Our findings demonstrate the importance of conformational selection in enzymatic depolymerization of biopolymers. A straight or twisted conformation of the polymer chain is crucial in biocatalytic degradation by showing different affinities to enzyme ground‐state conformers. This work highlights the importance of considering the conformational match between the polymer and the enzyme to optimize the biocatalytic degradation efficiency of biopolymers, providing valuable insights for the development of sustainable bioprocesses.
Bio‐electrocatalytic Alkene Reduction Using Ene‐Reductases with Methyl Viologen as Electron Mediator
Authors: Wei Zheng , Knaus Tanja , Damian Matteo , Liu Yuxin , Santana Cássia S. , Yan Ning , Rothenberg Gadi , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: July 2024

Asymmetric hydrogenation of alkene moieties is important for the synthesis of chiral molecules, but achieving high stereoselectivity remains a challenge. Biocatalysis using ene‐reductases (EReds) offers a viable solution. However, the need for NAD(P)H cofactors limits large‐scale applications. Here, we explored an electrochemical alternative for recycling flavin‐containing EReds using methyl viologen as a mediator. For this, we built a bio‐electrocatalytic setup with an H‐type glass reactor cell, proton exchange membrane, and carbon cloth electrode. Experimental results confirm the mediator's electrochemical reduction and enzymatic consumption. Optimization showed increased product concentration at longer reaction times with better reproducibility within 4–6 h. We tested two enzymes, Pentaerythritol Tetranitrate Reductase (PETNR) and the Thermostable Old Yellow Enzyme (TOYE), using different alkene substrates. TOYE showed higher productivity for the reduction of 2‐cyclohexen‐1‐one (1.20 mM h−1), 2‐methyl‐2‐cyclohexen‐1‐one (1.40 mM h−1) and 2‐methyl‐2‐pentanal (0.40 mM h−1), with enantiomeric excesses ranging from 11 % to 99 %. PETNR outperformed TOYE in terms of enantioselectivity for the reduction of 2‐methyl‐2‐pentanal (ee 59 % ± 7 % (S)). Notably, TOYE achieved promising results also in reducing ketoisophorone, a challenging substrate, with similar enantiomeric excess compared to published values using NADH.
Kounis syndrome type I induced by an intramuscular injection of diclofenac: A literature review based on a case report
Authors: Ebrahimi Pouya , Nazari Roozbeh , Senobari Nahid , Mousavinezhad Seyedeh Maryam , Ghadimi Delaram J. , Soleimani Hamidreza
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

The history of any allergy to the medications should be asked by physicians before administration of the medication. The coincidence of allergic and ACS symptoms after a short time of drug administration might be an indicator of Kounis syndrome. Allergic and coronary symptoms should be considered and treated.

Ischemic heart disease is still the leading cause of death worldwide. Some medications, including NSAIDS and antibiotics, can cause allergic reactions with cardiac manifestations due to spasms of the coronary arteries. In this case, we present a patient with chest pain syndrome due to a hypersensitivity reaction caused by an intramuscular (IM) diclofenac injection. The patient was a 51‐year‐old male who presented to the emergency department complaining of retrosternal chest pain, breathlessness, and pruritis that started half an hour after an IM diclofenac injection he had because of low back pain. The allergic symptoms subsided with an antihistamine injection, but chest pain and dyspnea remained stable. He was admitted due to the presence of ST‐segment depression in leads II, III, and AVF and underwent percutaneous coronary angiography, which was normal. The patient was discharged with the diagnosis of Kounis syndrome, and he had an uneventful follow‐up 1 year later. Kounis hypersensitivity‐associated acute coronary syndrome, especially type I variant coronary spasm due to endothelial dysfunction is a type of acute myocardial syndrome. The following report describes an uncommon case of anaphylaxis‐associated Kounis type I syndrome manifesting ST‐segment changes in a male patient following an intramuscular injection of diclofenac.
Remimazolam for simultaneous percutaneous mitral valve clip and percutaneous left atrial appendage closure in an elderly patient with impaired cardiac function: A case report
Authors: Yamaguchi Sumika , Ishida Yusuke , Sasaki Tomomi , Higuchi Satoshi , Bito Kiyoko , Oe Katsunori
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Remimazolam is a short‐acting benzodiazepine sedative with a short half‐life and little circulatory depression. The safe use of remimazolam in the anesthetic management of an elderly patient with impaired cardiac function is reported. The patient's hemodynamics remained stable, and the patient was managed without serious complications. Remimazolam may be an option for sedation in elderly patients with reduced cardiac function.
Exohedral Diels‐Alder Reactivity of Endohedral Metallofullerene C36
Authors: Santha Bhaskaran Athul , Romero del Blanco Dani , Romero‐Rivera Adrià , Osuna Sílvia , Swart Marcel
Published: July 2024

Understanding the exohedral reactivity of metallofullerenes is crucial for its application in various fields. By systematically controlling the trapped species inside the fullerene its reactivity can be tamed. In this work we report the preferential position of 3d metal atoms inside the C36 cage and their effect on exohedral reactivity in comparison with the neutral and the dianionic cage. The Diels‐Alder (DA) reaction between butadiene and all non‐equivalent [5‐5], [6‐5] and [6‐6] C−C bonds on the fullerene cage was considered for the analysis, by using density functional theory at the S12g/TZ2P level including COSMO solvation model to elucidate the complete mechanistic pathways. Our results indicate that the preferential position of the metal ion is at the position close to the upper hexagon, and that the general trend in the reactivity of bonds follows the order [5‐5]>[6‐5]>[6‐6]. Moreover, the encapsulation of metal atoms further enhances the reactivity of these bonds, by lowering the LUMOs of the cage, hence maximizing the orbital interactions.
A New Structural Motif in Aggregation of Methylalumoxanes: Non‐Hydrolytic Route by the Alkylation of Dicarboxylic Acids
Authors: Pietrzykowski Antoni , Justyniak Iwona , Szejko Vadim , Skrok Tomasz , Radzymiński Tomasz , Suwińska Kinga , Lewiński Janusz
Published: July 2024

Alumoxanes are typically produced via controlled hydrolysis of short‐chain alkyl aluminium compounds which leads to oligomeric species that are usually difficult to obtain in crystalline form. Simultaneously, various alternative non‐hydrolytic approaches to alumoxanes have also been used. In this work, we report on a new methylalumoxane scaffold derived from the alkylation of a series of dicarboxylic acids: itaconic acid (HO2CCH2C(=CH2)CO2H), succinic acid (HO2CCH2CH2CO2H) and homophthalic acid (HO2CCH2C6H4CO2H). The reactions of AlMe3 with a selected dicarboxylic acid in the molar ratio 4 : 1 conducted at elevated temperature occur with double methylation of each carboxylic group and provide to the formation of a new methylalumoxane aggregate, Me10Al6O4, flanked by methylaluminium diolate units. We also aimed to obtain dialkylaluminium derivatives of dicarboxylic acids by the controlled reaction of the appropriate acid with AlMe3 in the 1 : 2 stoichiometry. While the synthesis of organoaluminium derivatives of flexible aliphatic dicarboxylic acids (itaconic and succinic acids) is challenging due to their insolubility, the related homophtalate compound readily forms a molecular tetranuclear cluster, [([(O2CCH2C6H4CO2)(μ‐AlMe2)2]2. The molecular and crystal structures of the resulting compounds were determined via NMR spectroscopic analysis and single crystal X‐ray diffraction crystallography.
CaLi2PN3 – A Quaternary Chain‐Type Nitridophosphate by Medium‐Pressure Synthesis
Authors: Pritzl Reinhard M. , Fahle Nadine , Witthaut Kristian , Wendl Sebastian , Schnick Wolfgang
Published: July 2024

Nitridophosphates are in the focus of current research interest due to their structural versatility and properties, such as ion conductivity, ultra‐incompressibility and luminescent properties when doped with suitable activator ions. Multinary representatives often require thorough investigation due to the competition with the thermodynamically more stable binary and ternary compounds. Another point of concern is the synthetic control of structural details, which is usually limited by conventional bottom‐up syntheses. In this study, we report on the synthesis and characterization of the quaternary nitridophosphate CaLi2PN3. Various synthesis protocols were used for the preparation of CaLi2PN3, including the novel nitridophosphate double salt approach. The crystal structure was solved and refined from single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction data and confirmed by Rietveld refinement, solid‐state NMR spectroscopy, EDX measurements and low‐cost crystallographic calculations. The experimental results were corroborated by DFT calculations, which revealed the electronic band structure. Formation energy calculations allowed conclusions to be drawn about the stability in comparison to the initial ternary nitridophosphates. The synthesis of CaLi2PN3 exemplifies the enormous potential of medium‐pressure syntheses in the field of nitridophosphate research. Furthermore, the presented new synthesis route allows a certain degree of structural control, which is a promising addition to previous synthesis strategies in nitridophosphate chemistry.
The Configuration Identification of Guanine Molecules Adsorbed on the Si(100) Surface by Using XPS Shake‐up Satellites and NEXAFS
Authors: Wang Shuyi , Guo Jingdong , Shen Hujun , Li Xiong , Cen Chao , Cai Shaohong , Deng Mingsen
Published: July 2024

Bioelectronic devices can be manufactured by organic‐inorganic hybrid systems based on biomolecules and silicon semiconductors. The performance of the hybrid systems is largely determined by the adsorption manners of biomolecules on the silicon surface. In this paper, we demonstrated that the X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) shake‐up satellites and near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine‐structure (NEXAFS) spectra at the carbon K‐edges can be used to distinguish the interface of guanine molecules anchored on Si(100) surface. There are only 9 possible stable guanine@Si(100) hybrid systems that have been found based on the density functional theory. According to the characteristic peaks, it is confirmed that NEXAFS spectra are more sensitive to the identification of adsorption configurations. While the first characteristic peak in the low energy region of NEXAFS spectra are capable of distinguishing chemical bonds at the interface of the adsorption configurations. These results may facilitate a better understanding of the interface formations between biomolecules and silicon surfaces, which could be further utilized for the new bioelectronic device design.
Ultrasonic Disintegration of Municipal Sludge: Fundamental Mechanisms, Process Intensification and Industrial Sono‐Reactors
Authors: Djellabi Ridha , Su Peidong , Ambaye Teklit Gebregiorgis , Cerrato Giuseppina , Bianchi Claudia L.
Published: July 2024

Sludge disintegration is an environmental and industrial challenge that requires intensive research and technological development. Sludge has a complex structure with a high yield of various chemical and biological compounds. Anaerobic digestion is the most commonly used process for sludge disintegration to produce biogas, detoxify sludge, and generate biosolids that can be used in agriculture . Biological cell lysis is the rate‐limiting cell lysis. This review discusses the application of sonolysis as a sludge pretreatment for enhanced anaerobic digestion via three combined processes: thermal destruction, hydrochemical shear forces, and radical oxidation. The mechanistic pathways of sono‐pretreatment to enhance biogas, sludge‐enhanced dewatering, activation of filamentous bacteria, oxidation of organic pollutants, release of heavy metals, reduction of bulking and foaming sludge, and boosting ammonia‐oxidizing bacterial activity are discussed in this review. This article also discusses the use of ultrasound in sludge disintegration, highlighting its potential in conjunction with Fenton and cation‐binding agents, and reviews common large‐scale sonoreactors available on the market..
Integrated Applied Clinical Pharmacology in the Advancement of Rare and Ultra‐Rare Disease Therapeutics
Authors: Ryder Steven
Published: July 2024

The introduction of safe and effective rare/ultra‐rare disease treatments is a focus of many biotherapeutic enterprises. Despite this increased activity, a significant unmet need remains, and the responsibility to meet this need is augmented by enhanced genomic, biologic, medical, analytical, and informatic tools. It is recognized that the development of an effective and safe rare/ultra‐rare disease therapeutic faces a number of challenges with an important role noted for clinical pharmacology. Clinical pharmacology is foundationally an integrative discipline which must be embedded in and is interdependent upon understanding the pathogenic biology, clinical presentation, disease progression, and end‐point assessment of the disease under study. This manuscript presents an overview and two case examples of this integrative approach, the development of C5‐targeted therapeutics for the treatment of generalized myasthenia gravis and asfotase alpha for the treatment of hypophosphatasia. The two presented case examples show the usefulness of understanding the biological drivers and clinical course of a rare disease, having relevant animal models, procuring informative natural history data, importing assessment tools from relevant alternative areas, and using integrated applied clinical pharmacology to inform target engagement, dose, and the cascade of pharmacodynamic and clinical effects that follow. Learnings from these programs include the importance of assuring cross‐validation of assays throughout a development program and continued commitment to understanding the relationship among the array of Pd end points and clinical outcomes. Using an integrative approach, substantive work remains to be done to meet the unmet needs of patients with rare/ultra‐rare disease.
Synthesis and Functionalization of Biodegradable Second Harmonic Generation Nanoprobes for Cell Targeting
Authors: Ulucay Edagul , Bollier Pomone , Spilioti Marina , Sonay Ali Yasin , Kalyviotis Konstantinos , Pantazis Periklis
Published: July 2024

Optical imaging technologies and cell targeting have played a major role in detecting and treating diseases such as cancer. Bioharmonophores are optical imaging nanoprobes composed of biodegradable polymer–encapsulated, self‐assembling triphenylalanine peptides. They produce a strong second harmonic generation (SHG) signal, a non‐linear optical process in which two photons directed at a non‐centrosymmetric medium combine to form a new photon with twice the energy. Bioharmonophores demonstrate superior optical properties compared to fluorescent probes and, unlike previously developed inorganic SHG nanoprobes, are both biocompatible and biodegradable. Here, we present a protocol providing five detailed procedures that describe (1) synthesis of bioharmonophores; (2) embedding and imaging of the synthesized SHG nanoprobes in polyacrylamide gel; (3) functionalization of bioharmonophores with thiol‐containing polyethyleneglycol; (4) subsequent click chemistry to target cancer cells; and (5) imaging of functionalized bioharmonophores endocytosed by cancer cells using two‐photon microscopy. Bioharmonophores hold great potential as clinical contrast agents due to their optical features and could be used in the future as an innovative approach to cancer treatment using targeted high‐resolution optical imaging. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Synthesis of bioharmonophores

Basic Protocol 2: Imaging of bioharmonophores in polyacrylamide gel

Basic Protocol 3: Functionalization of bioharmonophores with thiol‐PEG

Basic Protocol 4: Functionalization of thiol‐PEGylated bioharmonophores with peptides

Basic Protocol 5: Targeting of cancer cells with functionalized bioharmonophores
Forage legume responses to climate change factors
Authors: Sollenberger Lynn E. , Kohmann Marta M.
Published: July 2024

Incorporating forage legumes into grasslands is a recommended climate change mitigation strategy, but accruing desired benefits from legumes is contingent upon their resilience when exposed to climate change factors (CCF). Our objective was to synthesize literature describing responses to CCF of a broad array of forage legume species, including annuals and perennials from both temperate and tropical/subtropical regions. Most‐represented species in the related literature include alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.), various Trifolium and Lotus species, rhizoma peanut (Arachis glabrata Benth.), and capitata stylo (Stylosanthes capitata Vogel). The data indicate that while CCF effects on forage legumes can be generalized, interactions among CCF, species, and site‐specific soil/climate conditions may cause variation from expected responses. In most instances, exposing forage legumes to CO2 enrichment (eCO2) increased forage accumulation (FA), but elevated temperature (eT) often reduced the magnitude of the positive response to eCO2. Photosynthetic acclimation to eCO2 occurs in non‐N‐fixing plants, but legume nodules are large C sinks and drive sustained increases in legume FA to eCO2. Legume N2 fixation and the proportion of legume N derived from N2 fixation increase with eCO2, but the magnitude of the increases lessens with eT. Legume nutritive value (NV) responses to eCO2 are less pronounced than FA responses, but decreased herbage N and greater nonstructural carbohydrate concentrations are common. Exposure to eT negatively affects NV unless intervals between defoliation events are shortened. Limited data on reproductive performance show CCF affect flower number, pollen grain morphology and viability, and behavior of pollinators, potentially influencing legume reproductive success.
Ensuring Stability of Anode Catalysts in PEMWE: From Material Design to Practical Application
Authors: Wang Lina , Pan Qingzhi , Liang Xiao , Zou Xiaoxin
Published: July 2024

Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis (PEMWE) has emerged as a clean and effective approach for the conversion and storage of renewable electricity, particularly due to its compatibility with fluctuating photovoltaic and wind power. However, the high cost and limited performance of iridium oxide catalysts (i. e. IrO2) used as anode catalyst in industrial PEM electrolyzers remain significant obstacles to widespread application. Although numerous low‐cost and efficient alternative catalysts have been developed in laboratory research, comprehensive stability studies critical for industrial use are often overlooked. This leads to the failure of performance transfer from catalysts tested in liquid half‐cell systems to those employed in PEM electrolyzers. This concept presents a thorough overview for the stability issues of anode catalysts in PEMWE, and discuss their degradation mechanisms in both liquid half‐cell systems and PEM electrolyzers. We summarize the comprehensive protocols for assessment and characterization, analyze the effective strategies for stability optimization, and explore the opportunities for designing viable anode catalysts for PEM electrolyzers.
Why does servant leadership increase employee satisfaction but not retention?
Authors: May Rachel
Published: July 2024

If servant leadership leads to happier and more qualified employees, why doesn’t it help with retention—and is it ultimately costing companies more than it's worth?
Short‐term grazing reduced community stability by decreasing community‐wide asynchrony and dominant species stability
Authors: Hao Jie , Diao Huajie , Su Yuan , Xu Peidong , Dong Kuanhu , Wang Changhui
Published: July 2024

The effects of grazing on natural grasslands' plant composition, diversity, and productivity depend on the intensity of grazing. Besides grazing intensity, animal composition is also important. However, whether and how sheep grazing intensity affects the temporal biomass stability of plant communities is unclear. Here, we conducted a 5‐year grazing experiment to evaluate the effects of four grazing intensities on community biomass stability and the underlying mechanisms. Our results showed that the higher grazing intensity significantly decreased community biomass stability, community‐wide asynchrony, functional groups asynchrony, dominant species stability, and species dominance, but did not affect species richness. The results of structural equation modeling revealed that grazing decreased community biomass stability by decreasing dominant species stability and community‐wide asynchrony, which was attributable to the reduction in plant functional group asynchrony. Our results highlight the importance of functional group composition and dynamics in predicting the changes in community function in sheep grazing grassland ecosystems. Under continuous seasonal grazing conditions, the sustainable function and human services of grasslands in the agropastoral ecotone might decrease in the future.
Synthesis of Enamides through Hydro‐Functionalization of Ynamides
Authors: Mishra Archana , Sekhar Pati Subhransu , Das Jaya Prakash
Published: July 2024

Most of the methods for the synthesis of functionalized enamides from ynamides were developed in the last two decades showing the contemporary interest in the exploration of ynamide chemistry. The utilization of the intrinsic reactivity of the ynamide triple bond through keteniminium intermediacy, coordination with metals, and as a radical acceptor toward the development of strategies for the synthesis of functionalized enamides reflect the constant strive and creativity in the design and execution of synthetic methods. The present review summarizes the synthetic strategies developed during the last two decades and is divided into the sections depending on the type of hydrofunctionalization reaction. It may be predicted that this field of chemistry will continue to grow exponentially in the coming years and the ready availability of a wide range of ynamides now provides an excellent opportunity to further enrich mainstream synthetic methodologies.
Organisational antecedents of employee ambassadorship on social network sites
Authors: van Prooijen Anne‐Marie , Wirtz Coen , Ellemers Naomi
Published: July 2024

Organisations seeking to enhance their reputation increasingly depend on social network messages—for instance, from employees—instead of being able to control this through their formal communications. The present research aimed to examine how employees’ willingness to share positive messages about their organisation on their social network sites (SNS) relates to organisational features and activities. Specifically, we examined whether employee ambassadorship on SNS relates to two key dimensions of social evaluation: perceived organisational morality and competence. Results of three studies suggest that organisational features can motivate employees to support their organisation online. Across different samples and measures, employee evaluations of organisational morality were a stronger statistical predictor of online ambassadorship than their evaluations of organisational competence. Organisational identification, not external prestige, mediated the effect of organisational morality on online ambassadorship. This suggests that perceived organisational morality relates to intrinsic motives of employees to support their organisation on SNS.
Detection and adsorption of florfenicol in milk using bifunctional carbon dot–doped molecularly imprinted polymers
Authors: Li Weiyan , Sun Chuansheng , Wang Haiping , Bai Qingyan , Xu Yi , Bo Chunmiao , Ou Junjie
Published: July 2024

Detection of florfenicol (FF) residues in animal‐derived foods, as one of the most widely used antibiotics, is critically important to food safety. The fluorescent molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was synthesized by surface‐initiated atom transfer radical polymerization technique with poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐co‐ethylene glycol dimethacrylate) microspheres, 4‐vinylpyridine, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and FF as the matrix, functional monomer, crosslinker, and template molecule, respectively. Meanwhile, N–S co‐doped carbon dot (CD) was synthesized with triammonium citrate and thiourea as precursors under microwave irradiation at 400 W for 2.5 min and then integrated into FF‐MIP to obtain CD@FF‐MIP. For comparison, non‐imprinted polymer (NIP) without FF was also prepared. The adsorption capacity of CD@FF‐MIP to FF reached 53.1 mg g−1, which was higher than that of FF‐MIP (34.7 mg g−1), whereas the adsorption capacity of NIP was only 17.3 mg g−1. The adsorption equilibrium of three materials was reached within 50 min. Particularly, CD@FF‐MIP exhibited an excellent fluorescence quenching response to FF in the concentration range of 3–50 µmol L−1. As a result, CD@FF‐MIP was successfully utilized to extract FF in milk samples, which were analyzed by high‐performance liquid chromatography. The standard recoveries were 95.8%–98.2%, and the relative standard deviation was 1.6%–4.2%. The method showed the advantages of simple operation, high sensitivity, excellent selectivity, and low cost, and also demonstrated a great application prospect in food detection.
Miguel Cardona on FAFSA and students’ civil rights
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: July 2024

LAS VEGAS – When Education Secretary Miguel Cardona came to the national Education Writer's Association conference in June, it was expected that his interview was going to touch on some of the hottest topics in higher education today, namely FAFSA and campus protests.
Are you a supercommunicator?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: July 2024

“The single biggest problem with communication is the illusion it has taken place.”

George Bernard Shaw
Exploring the ancient roots and modern global brews of tea and herbal beverages: A comprehensive review of origins, types, health benefits, market dynamics, and future trends
Authors: Huda Hisham‐Sultan‐Alkatib , Majid Nazia Binti Abdul , Chen Yeng , Adnan Mohd , Ashraf Syed Amir , Roszko Marek , Bryła Marcin , Kieliszek Marek , Sasidharan Sreenivasan
Published: July 2024

Tea, a culturally significant beverage, originated around 2700 B.C. in ancient Chinese civilization, with a profound understanding of its therapeutic properties. Herbal medicines from diverse plant sources have been esteemed for their phytochemical content. Today, tea's appeal spans the globe, with various processing techniques creating distinct tea varieties. This review article comprehensively explores tea and herbal teas, encompassing their origins, types, trade history, health benefits, chemical composition, and market and future dynamics. This review examines tea's evolution from ancient China to its global significance and analyzes the impact of tea trade routes on cultural exchanges and trade dynamics. The review covers conventional teas (black, green, and oolong), blended teas, and herbal teas. It primarily focuses on herbal beverages' chemical composition and active components derived from diverse plants and botanicals, highlighting their traditional uses and health‐promoting applications. The review provides valuable insights into the dynamic herbal tea market, growth, consumer preferences, industry trends, and future aspects of the herbal beverage. Additionally, it explores the proper classification and preparation of herbal drinks for maximum benefits, shedding light on tea manufacturing and preparation processes. This review is a valuable resource for tea enthusiasts, health‐conscious individuals, and industry stakeholders, offering profound insights into teas and their multifaceted allure.
Comparative content analysis and biological activity studies of fatty and essential oils from some garlic products sold in Turkish community pharmacies, natural, and fermented garlic
Authors: Deniz Elif Ulutaş , Yuca Hafize , Aydın Bilge , Öztürk Gözde , Çoban Furkan , Göger Gamze , Demirci Betül , Karakaya Songül
Published: July 2024

Garlic (Alliaceae), an annual herb, is renowned not only for its distinctive flavor but also for its extensive therapeutic applications in managing various ailments and health conditions. In this study, garlic products identified as the best‐selling items in Turkish pharmacies for various purposes were compared with garlic grown under standard conditions in terms of chemical composition and antidiabetic, anticholinesterase, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Three of garlic samples were prepared by researchers. According to survey results, the most commonly sold garlic‐related products in pharmacies are black garlic extract tablets (4), capsules (5), garlic oil (6), garlic oil pearls (7), and fermented garlic (8). Diallyl disulfide (DADS) was identified as a predominant compound in sampled oils, ranging from 4.9% to 48.6%. Another noteworthy finding is the identification of allyl methyl disulfide and allyl methyl trisulfide as major components in sampled oils, with concentrations spanning from 2.9% to 9.8% and 0.4% to 17.5%, respectively. In both 2,2′‐azino‐bis‐(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulfonic) acid (ABTS·+) and 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•) tests, Sample 1 (fermented) exhibited the highest antioxidant activity. Sample 3 (cultivated) was richer in total phenol–total tannin content. Sample 6 exhibited the highest α‐glucosidase inhibition among antidiabetic activities, reaching 28.93%. Sample 5 capsules demonstrated the highest α‐amylase inhibition at 51.50%. Sample 7 exhibited the most notable inhibition against both acetylcholinesterase (22.92%) and butyrylcholinesterase (13.37%). Samples 3, 6, and 8 were found to be more effective against Candida tropicalis with minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) = 625 μg/mL. A comprehensive study on garlic products, including popular items from Turkish pharmacies and those grown under standard conditions, revealed diverse chemical compositions and multifaceted health properties.
Evaluation of microbiological, antioxidant, thermal, rheological and sensory properties of ice cream fermented with kefir culture and flavored with mint (Menthaspicata L.)
Authors: Öztürk‐Yalçın Feyza , Ürkek Bayram , Şengül Mustafa
Published: July 2024

Kefir is a healthy fermented dairy product, while ice cream is one of the most consumed dairy products. In this research, ice cream was fermented using a commercial kefir culture and flavored with a mint aroma in different proportions: 0% (KI), 0.2% (KIM2), 0.4% (KIM4), and 0.6% (KIM6). The study investigated the microbiological, thermal, rheological, textural, compositional, and sensory properties as well as antioxidant activity of kefir ice cream samples during 45‐day storage. The lactic bacilli, lactic cocci, and Leuconostoc counts of samples were >7 log CFU/g, while the yeast counts were <4 log CFU/g. The microbiological properties (except for yeast counts) of the samples were coherent with legal limits. Antioxidant values (except for samples KIM2 and KIM6) values did not indicate significant differences (p < .05). The pH and melting rate values of the samples decreased with the addition of mint flavor, while acidity values increased. The addition of mint aroma caused significant changes in the thermal properties of ice cream. The overrun, a*, WI, and hardness values of the samples decreased based on the mint flavor concentration, whereas the viscosity and rheological increased. Samples KI and KIM2 were scored higher than other samples for all sensory properties. As a result, fermented ice cream flavored (0.2% mint) with mint could be produced as a desirable dairy product with potential functional properties.