bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineered Polymer Architectures for Thermo‐Responsive Desiccants in Dehumidification Applications
Authors: Meyer Paul W. , Cui Shuang , Zeng Yi , Aday Anastasia , Woods Jason
Published: July 2023

Humidity control is relevant to many processes in buildings and manufacturing and is responsible for over 600 million tons of CO2 annually. As such, desiccants that can efficiently remove moisture from air can greatly reduce emissions. A new class of desiccant materials, thermo‐responsive desiccants, has been of increased interest in the literature. These materials are generally based on thermo‐responsive polymers and exhibit a temperature‐dependent isotherm, an attribute that is small in traditional desiccants. In this work, seven key parameters needed to create an effective thermo‐responsive polymer desiccant are identified using a combination of modeling and experimental data. It is found that more thermo‐responsiveness is not necessarily better for energy efficiency, and that an optimal, “medium” value is desired. Additionally, polymer composition and architecture play key roles in adjusting the seven key parameters. Finally, based on findings from both modeling and experimental work, guidelines on synthesizing future thermo‐responsive polymer desiccants are presented.
Organic Solvent Dispersible MXene Integrated Colloidal Quantum Dot Photovoltaics
Authors: You Hyung Ryul , Lee Seongeun , Lee Duck Hoon , Murali G. , Nissimagoudar Arun S. , Kim Younghoon , Park Seongmin , Lee Jihoon , Kim Seon Joon , Park Jin Young , Moon Byung Joon , Park Young Ho , Kim Soo‐Kwan , Yu Han Na , Kim Hae Jeong , Lee Wonjong , Ham Gayoung , Lee Hyeonji , Lee Seung‐Cheol , Cha Hyojung , Lim Jongchul , Gogotsi Yury , An Tae kyu , In Insik , Choi Jongmin
Published: July 2023

Despite recent advances in colloidal quantum dot (CQD) photovoltaics, several challenges persist and hinder further improvements. In particular, the Fermi level mismatch between the iodide‐treated photoactive and thiol‐treated hole‐transporting CQD layers creates an unfavorable energy band for hole collection. Furthermore, the numerous surface cracks in the thiol‐treated CQD layer facilitate direct contact between the photoactive CQD layer and the metal electrode, consequently leading to reduced device performance. To address these issues, a polycatechol functionalized MXene (PCA‐MXene) that can serve both as a dopant and an interlayer for CQD photovoltaics is developed. By achieving a uniformly dispersed mixture in a butylamine solvent, PCA‐MXene enables the effective combination of MXene and CQDs. This results in the modification of the work function of CQDs and the modulation of the energy band alignment, ultimately promoting enhanced hole extraction. Moreover, the PCA‐MXene employed as an interlayer effectively covers the surface cracks present in the thiol‐treated CQD layer. This coverage inhibits both metal electrode penetration and moisture intrusion into the device. Owing to these advantages, the CQD photovoltaics incorporating PCA‐MXene achieve a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 13.6%, accompanied by enhanced thermal stability, in comparison to the reference device with a PCE of 12.8%.
Single‐Ion Conducting Polymer Electrolyte for Superior Sodium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Dong Xu , Liu Xu , Li Huihua , Passerini Stefano , Bresser Dominic
Published: July 2023

Sodium‐metal batteries (SMBs) are considered a potential alternative to high‐energy lithium‐metal batteries (LMBs). However, the high reactivity of metallic sodium towards common liquid organic electrolytes renders such battery technology particularly challenging. Herein, we propose a multi‐block single‐ion conducting polymer electrolyte (SIPE) doped with ethylene carbonate as suitable electrolyte system for SMBs. This novel SIPE provides a very high ionic conductivity (2.6 mS cm−1) and an electrochemical stability window of about 4.1 V at 40 °C, enabling stable sodium stripping and plating and excellent rate capability of Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 cells up to 2 C. Remarkably, such cells provide a capacity retention of about 85 % after 1,000 cycles at 0.2 C thanks to the very high Coulombic efficiency (99.9 %), resulting from an excellent interfacial stability towards sodium metal and the Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode.
Designing F/P Hybrid Polymer as Ultrastable Cationic Shielding Interphase for High‐Performance Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Han Shantao , Wu Baifei , Wang Huaijiao , Wen Peng , Zhang Lu , Lin Xinrong , Chen Mao
Published: July 2023

Dendrite growth on electrode‐electrolyte interphase has severely limited applications of lithium metal batteries (LMBs). Here, we developed an ionic alternating polymer with fluorocarbons and phosphonium cations in repeating units to regulate Li deposition for the first time. The combined functionalities in the F/P hybrid polymer exhibit remarkable characteristics as a protective layer on top of Li anode, demonstrating outstanding electrochemical stability, ion flux redistributing capability and adaptive chain mobility. Based on characterizations and simulations, this cationic interlayer could effectively furnish long‐standing electrostatic shielding for anodes, allowing restrained coating decomposition and homogenized electric field distribution to induce dendrite‐free Li deposition, and enabling full cells with enhanced rate and long‐term cycling performance. Given the importance of LMBs, this work will promote polymer design to stabilize anodes with superior electrochemical behavior.
One‐Step Manufacturing of Supramolecular Liquid‐Crystal Elastomers by Stress‐Induced Alignment and Hydrogen Bond Exchange
Authors: Fan Yuexin , Liu Tuan , Li Yuzhan , Miao Xuepei , Chen Baihang , Ding Jian , Dong Zhixiang , Rios Orlando , Bao Bingkun , Lin Qiuning , Zhu Linyong
Published: July 2023

Liquid‐crystal elastomers (LCEs) capable of performing large and reversible deformation in response to an external stimulus are an important class of soft actuators. However, their manufacturing process typically involves a multistep approach that requires harsh conditions. For the very first time, LCEs with customized geometries that can be manufactured by a rapid one‐step approach at room temperature are developed. The LCEs are hydrogen bond (H‐bond) crosslinked main chain polymers comprising flexible short side chains. Applying a stretching/shear force to the LCE can simultaneously induce mesogen alignment and H‐bond exchange, allowing for the formation of well‐aligned LCE networks stabilized by H‐bonds. Based on this working principle, soft actuators in fibers and 2D/3D objects can be manufactured by mechanical stretching or melt extrusion within a short time (e.g. <1 min). These actuators can perform reversible macroscopic motions with large, controlled deformations up to 38 %. The dynamic nature of H‐bonds also provides the actuators with reprocessability and reprogrammability. Thus, this work opens the way for the one‐step and custom manufacturing of soft actuators.
Inter‐Vesicle Signal Transduction Using a Photo‐Responsive Zinc Ionophore
Authors: Gartland Shaun A. , Johnson Toby G. , Walkley Euan , Langton Matthew J.
Published: July 2023

Transmission of chemical information between cells and across lipid bilayer membranes is of profound significance in many biological processes. The design of synthetic signalling systems is a critical step towards preparing artificial cells with collective behaviour. Here, we report the first example of a synthetic inter‐vesicle signalling system, in which diffusible chemical signals trigger transmembrane ion transport in a manner reminiscent of signalling pathways in biology. The system is derived from novel ortho‐nitrobenzyl and BODIPY photo‐caged ZnII transporters, in which cation transport is triggered by photo‐decaging with UV or red light, respectively. This decaging reaction can be used to trigger the release of the cationophores from a small population of sender vesicles. This in turn triggers the transport of ions across the membrane of a larger population of receiver vesicles, but not across the sender vesicle membrane, leading to overall inter‐vesicle signal transduction and amplification.
Folic acid electrocatalytic oxidation on the carbon electrode surface modified with ferrocenyl grafted polymethylhydrosiloxane
Authors: Rahimpour Shabnam , Zarenezhad Hassan , Teimuri‐Mofrad Reza
Published: July 2023

In this research, we synthesized ferrocenyl‐grafted polymethylhydrosiloxane (PMHS) through a hydrosilylation reaction between 3‐butenylferrocene and PMHS. The incorporation of the ferrocenyl derivative into the polymer backbone imparted electrochemical properties to the modified polymer. The modification of the polymer was confirmed by various techniques, including FT‐IR, 1H NMR, and UV–Vis spectroscopy. To prepare the new ferrocenyl polymer, we utilized cross‐linking agents, namely terephthaldehyde (TPA) and fresh egg white (FEW). The resulting polymer was drop‐coated onto a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) surface (5 μL). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) analysis confirmed the successful immobilization of the polymer on the GCE surface. Under physiological pH conditions (pH = 7), the Fc/Fc + couple facilitated the oxidation of folic acid (FA) at a potential of 0.40 V vs. the Ag/AgCl reference electrode. The GC/PMHS‐Fc/(TPA + FEW) electrode exhibited excellent stability, retaining 89% and 90% of its electrocatalytic activity after 500 cycles and 30 days of storage in a refrigerator, respectively. Thus, it shows promising potential for the determination of FA in biological fluids. The ferrocene‐modified electroactive polymer demonstrated satisfactory linear ranges for FA determination (5–150 μM) and a low limit of detection (LOD = 36 nM). These results highlight the effectiveness of the new polymer in detecting FA in biological samples.
Diet of hawksbill turtles (Eretmochelys imbricata) in the Gulf of California, Mexico
Authors: Reynolds Kara S. , Kurle Carolyn M. , Croll Donald A. , Steller Diana L. , Szuta Dorota , Miller Scott D. , Martínez‐Estévez Lourdes
Published: July 2023

Hawksbill turtles (n = 56) in a foraging ground around Isla San Jose, Gulf of California, Mexico, were caught, measured, and their skin and scutes sampled. Tissue samples from putative prey species were collected from observed hawksbill feeding areas in the foraging ground.

Measurements of each turtle's straight carapace length were used to estimate the average life stage of the population. Tissue samples were processed for stable carbon and nitrogen isotope analysis to estimate foraging habits of turtles in this location.

The majority (96.4%) of measured individuals' straight carapace length fell in the size range considered to be juveniles.

A Bayesian mixing model analysis of the δ13C and δ15N values of hawksbill skin and potential prey indicated that hawksbills consume primarily invertebrates and algae, with lesser contributions from seagrass and mangrove material.

There was a positive linear relationship between turtle size and the δ13C values from scute samples, and an increase in the δ13C values of five individuals recaptured in subsequent years suggested a potential location shift from a pelagic habitat in the turtles' post‐hatching, earliest juvenile years to the nearshore foraging area around Isla San Jose in their later juvenile years.
Epigenetic implications in maternal diabetes and metabolic syndrome‐associated risk of orofacial clefts
Authors: Sun Bo , Reynolds Kurt S. , Garland Michael A. , McMahon Moira , Saha Subbroto K. , Zhou Chengji J.
Published: July 2023

Orofacial clefts (OFCs) are one of the most common types of structural birth defects. The etiologies are complicated, involving with genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors. Studies have found that maternal diabetes and metabolic syndrome are associated with a higher risk of OFCs in offspring. Metabolic syndrome is a clustering of several disease risk factors, including hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, obesity, and hypertension. Metabolic disease during pregnancy can increase risk of adverse outcomes and significantly influence fetal development, including orofacial formation and fusion. An altered metabolic state may contribute to developmental disorders or congenital defects including OFCs, potentially through epigenetic modulations, such as histone modification, DNA methylation, and noncoding RNA expression to alter activities of critical morphogenetic signaling or related developmental genes. This review summarizes the currently available evidence and underlying mechanisms of how the maternal metabolic syndrome is associated with OFCs in mostly human and some animal studies. It may provide a better understanding of the interactions between intrauterine metabolic status and fetal orofacial development which might be applied toward prevention and treatments of OFCs.
Real‐world treatment outcomes of medicines used in special situations (off‐label and compassionate use) in oncology and hematology: A retrospective study from a comprehensive cancer institution
Authors: Fontanals Sandra , Esteve Anna , González Andrea , Ibáñez Cristina , Martínez Javier , Mesía Ricard , Clopés Ana
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Medicines in special situations (MSS) refer to off‐label or to unlicensed drugs under investigation (compassionate use). Our objectives were to evaluate characteristics and to estimate overall survival (OS), event‐free survival (EFS), and the duration of treatment (DT) of MSS used for cancer treatment at a multicentre comprehensive cancer institution.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study on adult cancer patients for whom an MSS treatment was requested (January 2011–December 2020). A descriptive analysis was performed and median OS and EFS and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated. Survival curves were stratified by type of tumor, ECOG (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group) performance status (PS), age, sex, treatment stage and type of drug (mechanism of action and target).

Results

Treatment was initiated in 2092 episodes (1930 patients) out of 2377 MSS episodes (2189 patients) requested, 33% for hematological treatment and 87% for advanced stage cancer. Median OS (months) was 21.1 (95% CI 19.4–22.7), median EFS was 5.6 (95% CI 5.1–6.0) months, and median DT was 4.5 [0.0; 115.3] months.

OS and EFS statistically significantly favored female patients, ECOG PS ≥2 episodes showed worse OS and EFS outcomes (p < 0.0001). Statistically significant differences in survival were found within solid and hematological cancer, disease stage, drug mechanism of action, and type of cancer (p < 0.001) but not for age. Survival outcomes by tumor subtype and drug are presented both globally and separately based on disease stage.

Conclusion

MSS uses are practiced across almost all cancer types, mostly for advanced disease. ECOG PS ≥2, along with advanced disease, was related to worse survival. Information about real‐world outcomes is valuable and contributes to better decision‐making regarding MSS and our experience in this field could be of interest for other colleagues.
“On‐Off” Switching of Functional Guest Molecules via Exchange of Natural Product Solubilizing Agents
Authors: Kawasaki Riku , Ikeda Atsushi
Published: July 2023

For the development of delivery systems, the solubilization of hydrophobic guest molecules in water is an important yet challenging task. This can be achieved by preparing stable aqueous solutions with a high concentration of guest molecules using a natural product as a solubilizing agent and a mechanochemical high‐speed vibration milling apparatus as a solubilizing method. Various solubilizing agent‐guest molecule complexes can be obtained via the exchange between solubilizing agents, which enables the “on‐off” switching of the properties of functional guest molecules, such as fluorescence intensity, and photodynamic activity. In the exchange method, guest molecules can transfer into cell membranes such as lysosomes and exosomes. Therefore, the exchange method of the solubilizing agents not only creates novel solubilizing agent‐guest molecule complexes but also is applied to drug delivery systems.
Palladium Nanoparticles Supported on Porous Silica Materials as Heterogeneous Catalysts of C−C Coupling and Cross‐Coupling Reactions
Authors: Mastalir Ágnes , Molnár Árpád
Published: July 2023

Noble metal nanoparticles supported on porous silica materials represent an important class of heterogeneous catalysts. Recently, a remarkable progress has been made concerning the synthesis, characterization, and catalytic application of noble metal nanoparticles immobilized on zeolites and mesoporous silica‐based materials. Various synthesis strategies have been developed, including the application of ligand‐assisted metal precursors, multistep synthesis procedures, post‐synthetic modifications, and magnetic mesoporous silica particles. Emphasis has been laid on the introduction of green procedures, based on the utilization of environmentally friendly solvents, efficient stabilizing agents, non‐toxic reagents, and mild reaction conditions. Palladium nanoparticles have long been recognized as the most efficient catalysts in a wide range of organic transformations, including the Heck, Suzuki, Stille, and Sonogashira reactions. Although these transformations have been extensively investigated in homogeneous catalytic systems, the application of heterogeneous catalysts, including silica‐supported Pd0 nanoparticles, has gained in increasing importance. This may be due to the easy handling and recovery of the latter catalysts, which facilitates their repeated applications. The aim of this review is to provide an outlook on the current research progress achieved on the development of novel synthetic procedures, affording highly dispersed Pd0 nanoparticles immobilized on porous silica materials, which proved to be efficient and recyclable catalysts in C−C coupling and cross‐coupling reactions. The focus of this review is on results published in the last six years with a handful of examples in previous years.
Diverse Reactions of Formazanate/Formazan with Tetrylenes: Reduction, C−H Bond Activation, Substitution and Addition
Authors: Jin Da , Sun Xiaofei , Naina Vanitha R. , Roesky Peter W.
Published: July 2023

The reactivity of the formazanate potassium salt [LtBuK(thf)] (LtBu=PhNNC(4‐tBuPh)NNPh) with the group 14 chlorotetrylenes [{PhC(tBuN)2}ECl] (E=Si, Ge, Sn) was investigated. Three corresponding compounds with unique configurations were formed, demonstrating the diverse reactivity of the system. In addition to the anticipated salt metathesis reactions of the potassium salt with the chlorine function of tetrylenes, unexpected reduction/insertion steps into the N=N bond of the formazanate (Si, Ge) and subsequent C−H activation (Ge) were also observed. Furthermore, when the neutral formazan ligand [LtBuH] was exposed to silylenes [{PhC(tBuN)2}SiCl] and [LPhSiNMePy], substitution and addition reactions occurred. These discoveries significantly enrich the diversity of formazanate/formazan redox chemistry, opening up new avenues for exploration in this field.
Flow Field Investigations of Two‐Stage Stirrer Configurations Combining Axially and Radially Conveying Turbines
Authors: Matzke Marian , Ranft Ekaterina , Dominkovic Leon , Ulbricht Mathias , Schultz Heyko Jürgen
Published: July 2023

In this study, the flow fields of two‐stage impellers, consisting of combinations of different impeller types on one shaft, are investigated using stereo particle image velocimetry. Based on the results of torque measurements, diameters for different impellers are determined in order to achieve matching power input of the individual turbines. When implemented adequately, both selected impellers are able to contribute their respective characteristics, resulting in flow fields that differ significantly from those induced by single‐stage impellers as well as two‐stage setups consisting of identical impellers.
Formation of Slipped Dimer in 6‐Pentafluorophenyl‐substituted Olympicenyl Radical
Authors: Xiang Qin , Guo Yupeng , Hu Jinlian , Li Zhaoyang , Sun Zhe
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Introduction of substituents to organic radical is important to increase the stability and realize its applications as multifunctional materials. In this work, pentafluorophenyl group was introduced to 6‐position of olympicenyl radical (OR) via a newly designed synthetic strategy to afford the fourth OR derivative, OR4. Due to the combined electro‐withdrawing effect and steric hindrance of pentafluorophenyl, OR4 was stable and isolable in crystalline state. A slipped dimer was found in single crystal structure dominated by C—H···F interaction. SQUID measurements revealed a singlet–triplet energy gap of −0.47 kcal·mol−1 for the slipped dimer, suggesting weak SOMO–SOMO interaction. Moreover, electro‐withdrawing effect of pentafluorophenyl leads to a positive shift (0.15 V) of oxidative wave for OR4 compared with 6‐triisopropylsilylethynyl protected OR derivatives.
A Comparative Analysis on the Crystalline Behavior, Topographical, Photoluminescence, and Leakage Current Characteristics of BiFeO3 Nanopowders and Thin Films
Authors: Venkatapathy Ramasamy , Ramana Ramya J. , Bharath Sabarish V. C. , Gajendiran J. , Durairajan A. , Graça M. P. F. , Valente M. A. , Gokul Raj S. , Ramesh Kumar G.
Published: July 2023

Thin films and nanocrystalline powders of BiFeO3 (BFO) are prepared from pulsed laser deposition (PLD) and sol–gel process, respectively. Their grain sizes, microstrain, morphological features, leakage current characteristics, and photoluminescence (PL) emission behavior are investigated and compared with each other. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) technique has been utilized to compute the grain sizes and crystalline strain values for the thin films and nanopowders of BFO through Williamson–Hall (W–H) plots. XRD and Raman peaks of the deposited thin film and synthesized nanopowders of BFO confirm the formation of rhombohedral unit cell character and its vibrational structure. Topographical analysis of nanopowders and thin films of BFO from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM) measurements reveals the spherical morphology of grown particles. Suppression of emission peaks, as noticed from PL spectra for BFO nanopowders and thin film, indicates the possible electron defect level transitions due to oxygen vacancies. Leakage current density studies suggest the detectable flow of current in both study of specimen.
So many choices, so little time: Food preference and movement vary with the landscape of fear
Authors: Ferreira Clara Mendes , Dammhahn Melanie , Eccard Jana A.
Published: July 2023

Spatial and temporal variation in perceived predation risk is an important determinant of movement and foraging activity of animals. Foraging in this landscape of fear, individuals need to decide where and when to move, and what resources to choose. Foraging theory predicts the outcome of these decisions based on energetic trade‐offs, but complex interactions between perceived predation risk and preferences of foragers for certain functional traits of their resources are rarely considered. Here, we studied the interactive effects of perceived predation risk on food trait preferences and foraging behavior in bank voles (Myodes glareolus) in experimental landscapes. Individuals (n = 19) were subjected for periods of 24 h to two extreme, risk‐uniform landscapes (either risky or safe), containing 25 discrete food patches, filled with seeds of four plant species in even amounts. Seeds varied in functional traits: size, nutrients, and shape. We evaluated whether and how risk modifies forager preference for functional traits. We also investigated whether perceived risk and distance from shelter affected giving‐up density (GUD), time in patches, and number of patch visits. In safe landscapes, individuals increased time spent in patches, lowered GUD and visited distant patches more often compared to risky landscapes. Individuals preferred bigger seeds independent of risk, but in the safe treatment they preferred fat‐rich over carb‐rich seeds. Thus, higher densities of resource levels remained in risky landscapes, while in safe landscapes resource density was lower and less diverse due to selective foraging. Our results suggest that the interaction of perceived risk and dietary preference adds an additional layer to the cascading effects of a landscape of fear which affects biodiversity at resource level.
Metallophilic and Inter‐Ligand Interactions in Diargentous Compounds Bound by a Geometrically Flexible Macrocycle
Authors: Wang Qiuran , Gau Michael R. , Manor Brian C. , Carroll Patrick J. , Tomson Neil C.
Published: July 2023

A series of mono‐ and di‐nuclear AgI complexes supported by a flexible macrocyclic ligand are reported. The geometric flexibility of the ligand was found to allow for a range of Ag−Ag interactions in the disilver complexes, depending on the identities of both the ancillary ligand and the counterion. Studies of the solution‐phase dynamic exchange processes for these latter complexes found rapid interconversion through a mechanism that retained the multi‐nuclearity. Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) and Independent Gradient Model based on Hirshfeld partition (IGMH) analyses are used to evaluate the d10‐d10 interactions between silver centers in the various geometries observed for the solid‐state structures of these complexes, revealing nearly identical Ag−Ag interactions, regardless of the relative geometries of the Ag centers. Instead, a weak, but non‐negligible, inter‐ligand interaction between two isocyanide units may contribute to the folded‐ligand geometry observed in the solid state.
Propolis and carnauba wax‐based safflower oil oleogels as fat substitutes in cakes: Production, oxidative stability, and characterization
Authors: Baştürk Ayhan , Badem Şebnem , Ceylan M. Murat
Published: July 2023

In this study, safflower oil oleogels were made using propolis wax and carnauba wax in three different concentrations each, and their effectiveness as a fat substitute in cake was evaluated afterward. Oleogels' oxidative stability and characterization were looked into. In oleogels, the oil binding capacity, solid fat content, and crystallization time were all assessed. The cakes underwent an examination for moisture content, texture, and sensory evaluation. Additionally, analyses of fatty acid composition, free fatty acidity, oxidative stability (peroxide value, conjugated diene‐triene), 3‐monochloropropane‐1,2‐diol (3‐MCPD), and glycidyl were carried out both before and after baking in oleogels and shortening. Several of the physical, textural, and sensory qualities of the oleogel‐based cakes were acceptable when compared to those of the shortening‐based cakes. The general acceptability of cakes made with carnauba wax was very high and almost under control. The acceptability of cakes made with propolis wax oleogels was lower than this. The study of these criteria has shown that safflower oil‐based carnauba and propolis wax oleogels can be utilized to produce high‐quality, healthful cakes with a high amount of unsaturated fatty acids.

Practical Applications: To replace fat phases in cake products high in saturated fatty acids and to enhance the fatty acid profile of the cakes, safflower oil‐based oleogels with propolis wax and carnauba wax are a very good option. The results obtained provide useful information for the production of high‐quality cakes with higher unsaturated fatty acid content, recommended for a healthier diet, with these oleogels containing different concentrations of oleogelator.
Applications of electrophoresis for small enantiomeric drugs in real‐world samples: Recent trends and future perspectives
Authors: Ali Imran , Perrucci Miryam , Ciriolo Luigi , D'Ovidio Cristian , de Grazia Ugo , Ulusoy Halil Ibrahim , Kabir Abuzar , Savini Fabio , Locatelli Marcello
Published: July 2023

Separation and identification of chiral molecules is a topic widely discussed in the literature and of fundamental importance, especially in the pharmaceutical and food fields, both from industrial and laboratory points of view. Several techniques are used to carry out these analyses, but high‐performance liquid chromatography is often the “gold standard.” The high costs of chiral columns, necessary for this technique, led researchers to look for an alternative, and capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a technique capable of overcoming some of the disadvantages of liquid chromatography, often providing comparable results in terms of sensitivity and robustness. We addressed this topic, already widely discussed in the literature, providing an overview of the last 6 years of the most frequent and recent applications of CE. To make the manuscript more effective, we decided to divide it into paragraphs that represent the main field of application, from enantioseparation in complex matrices (pharmacokinetic studies or toxicological dosage of drugs, analysis of environmental pollutants, and analyses of foods) to quality control analyses on pharmaceutical formulas. About these, which are the fields of most meaningful use, we mentioned some of the most innovative and performing methods, with a look to the future on the application of new materials used, such as chiral selectors, that can make these types of analyses accessible to all, reducing cost, time, and excessive use of toxic solvents.
Chris Huang: Bringing his experience to Purdue University Fort Wayne
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: July 2023

When Chris Huang took his first job as registrar in 2006, he didn’t know what he didn’t know. He had worked in admissions, so he did understand much of how a college operates. And he thought his lack of experience was in some ways a benefit; it would allow him to attack the wide variety of registrar tasks with a fresh look, instead of defaulting to operating the way it had always been done.
The potential competency outcome of vigorous brain training game in the elderly: A systematic review
Authors: Tewthanom Karunrat , Sukasi Sittha , Lerspalungsanti Sarawut , Srisawat Foifon
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

The potential outcomes of vigorous brain training game in the elderly is questionable.

Methods

A systematic review of studies reporting the outcomes of brain training game under the PRISMA guideline was conducted using the PubMed database (1997–2022). The selection criteria were clinical studies published in English language.

Results

A total of 174 articles were identified by searching keywords. However, after screening the relation of the topic and methodology, 21 articles were included. The results of all studies showed positive outcomes after using the brain training game. Variation in the measurement tools were observed.

Conclusion

The brain training game showed a positive effect on the brain function. However, the confirmation studies with large populations and standard measurement tools are required for more validated results.
Quantifying effects of different types of droughts on gross primary production in China
Authors: Shi Xiaoliang , Ding Hao , Yuan Zhe , Chen Fei , Shi Mengqi , Zhang Dan
Published: July 2023

The increasing impact of drought stress on ecosystems with regard to climate change has received considerable attention, which has been demonstrated to have a time‐lag effect on ecosystems. However, the time‐lag effect on different types of droughts and gross primary production (GPP) at large regional scales remains unclear. Thus, using the GOSIF GPP product data of solar‐induced chlorophyll fluorescence, the meteorological drought index (standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index [SPEI]), and the agricultural drought index (soil moisture deficit index [SMDI]) based on the soil moisture data obtained from the Global Land Data Assimilation System, the time‐lag effect of regional drought and GPP and the contribution of drought to GPP variation were analysed in China from 2000 to 2018. Results showed that (1) China's annual GPP increased at an average rate of 9.26 g C m−2 y−1. With regard to the average rate for each climate zone, the largest increase of 30.44 g C m−2 y−1 was observed in the southern subtropical region, and the smallest increase (4.01 g C m−2 y−1) was observed in the Qinghai–Tibetan plateau, with about 53.11% of the regions showing a significant upward trend. In addition, the significantly declining regions were primarily concentrated in urban areas, accounting for about 2.26% of China. (2) SPEI and GPP had an average lag time of 6.28 months, whereas SMDI and GPP had an average lag time of 7.17 months. The comparison demonstrated that SMDI had a greater influence on GPP than SPEI. (3) The average contribution rate of meteorological drought and agricultural drought to the decrease of GPP was 79.37% and 87.06%, and their average contribution rate to the increase of GPP was 39.11% and 50.57%, respectively. This study will provide comprehensive understanding of the effects of drought on carbon and water cycles in terrestrial ecosystems with regard to climate change.
MiR‐223‐3p affects the proliferation and apoptosis of HCAECs in Kawasaki disease by regulating the expression of FOXP3
Authors: Zheng Ronghao , Xie Jing , Li Weijie , Shang Jianping , Shi Zuliang , Zhu Songbai , Gui Lin , Huang Li , Shu Lan , Liu Donglei , Gong Yi , Li Xiaohui , Chai Wanxia , Huang Xiaofen , Wu Xiaolin , Yue Jing
Published: July 2023

Objective

Kawasaki disease (KD) can lead to permanent damage to coronary structures, the pathogenesis of which remains unknown. This experiment was designed to investigate whether miR‐223‐3p secreted in the serum of KD patients affects the proliferation and apoptosis of HCAECs in KD by regulating FOXP3.

Methods

Blood samples were collected in acute febrile phase of KD, after IVIG treatment, and from healthy controls. Transfected into HCAECs cells by synthetic FOXP3 siRNA/NC. A co‐culture system was established between HCAECs cells transfected with FOXP3 siRNA/NC and THP1 cells added with three sera.

Results

Compared with the control group, the expressions of miR‐223‐3p, RORγt, and Th17 in serum of KD patients were significantly upregulated, and the expressions of TGF‐β1, FOXP3 and Treg were significantly downregulated. At the same time, the levels of IL‐6, IL‐17, and IL‐23 were significantly increased, and the levels of IL‐10 and FOXP3 were significantly decreased. After IVIG treatment, the patient's above results were reversed. The serum of KD patients increased the expression of miR‐223‐3p and inhibited the expression of FOXP3 in HCAECs cells. IVIG serum is the opposite. Overexpression of miR‐223‐3p also promoted the apoptosis of HCAECs. In addition, serum from KD patients promoted apoptosis, whereas serum after IVIG treatment inhibited apoptosis. KD patient serum downregulated the expression of FOXP3, Bcl2, TGF‐β1 and IL‐10 in cells, and upregulated the expression of caspase3, Bax, IL‐17, IL‐6, and IL‐23. The opposite results were obtained with IVIG‐treated sera.

Conclusion

miR‐223‐3p secreted in serum of KD patients can regulate the expression of FOXP3 and affect the proliferation, apoptosis, and inflammation of cells.
TP53 Induced Glycolysis and Apoptosis Regulator and Monocarboxylate Transporter 4 drive metabolic reprogramming with c‐MYC and NFkB activation in breast cancer
Authors: Roche Megan E. , Ko Ying‐Hui , Domingo‐Vidal Marina , Lin Zhao , Whitaker‐Menezes Diana , Birbe Ruth C. , Tuluc Madalina , Győrffy Balázs , Caro Jaime , Philp Nancy J. , Bartrons Ramon , Martinez‐Outschoorn Ubaldo
Published: July 2023

Breast cancer is composed of metabolically coupled cellular compartments with upregulation of TP53 Induced Glycolysis and Apoptosis Regulator (TIGAR) in carcinoma cells and loss of caveolin 1 (CAV1) with upregulation of monocarboxylate transporter 4 (MCT4) in fibroblasts. The mechanisms that drive metabolic coupling are poorly characterized. The effects of TIGAR on fibroblast CAV1 and MCT4 expression and breast cancer aggressiveness was studied using coculture and conditioned media systems and in‐vivo. Also, the role of cytokines in promoting tumor metabolic coupling via MCT4 on cancer aggressiveness was studied. TIGAR downregulation in breast carcinoma cells reduces tumor growth. TIGAR overexpression in carcinoma cells drives MCT4 expression and NFkB activation in fibroblasts. IL6 and TGFB drive TIGAR upregulation in carcinoma cells, reduce CAV1 and increase MCT4 expression in fibroblasts. Tumor growth is abrogated in the presence of MCT4 knockout fibroblasts and environment. We discovered coregulation of c‐MYC and TIGAR in carcinoma cells driven by lactate. Metabolic coupling primes the tumor microenvironment allowing for production, uptake and utilization of lactate. In sum, aggressive breast cancer is dependent on metabolic coupling.
Reimbursement of elective egg freezing from health care systems: Beyond simplistic claims
Authors: Santulli Pietro , Viganò Paola , Somigliana Edgardo
Published: July 2023

Synopsis

France is the first country to offer elective egg freezing for nonmedical reasons under public health coverage. However, this decision deserves in‐depth scrutiny in the future because the cost‐beneficial profile is yet unknown.
Predicting partitioning from low density polyethylene to blood and adipose tissue by linear solvation energy relationship models
Authors: Ulrich Nadin , Böhme Alexander , Strobel Adrian Benedict , Egert Thomas
Published: July 2023

The variety of polymers utilized in medical devices demands for testing of extractables and leachables according to ISO 10993‐18:2020 in combination with ISO 10993‐1:2018. The extraction of the materials involves the use of organic solvents as well as aqueous buffers to cover a wide range of polarity and pH‐values, respectively. To estimate patient exposure to chemicals leaching from a polymer in direct body contact, simulating solvents are applied to best mimic the solubilization and partitioning behavior of the related tissue or body fluid. Here we apply linear solvation energy relationship (LSER) models to predict blood/water and adipose tissue/water partition coefficients. We suggest this predictive approach to project levels of potential leachables, design extraction experiments, and to identify the optimal composition of simulating extraction solvents. We compare our predictions to LSER predictions for commonly applied surrogates like ethanol/water mixtures, butanol, and octanol as well as olive oil, butanone, 1,4‐dioxane for blood and adipose tissue, respectively. We therefore selected a set of 26 experimentally determined blood/water partition coefficients and 33 adipose tissue/water partition coefficients, where we demonstrate that based on the root mean squared error rmse the LSER approach performs better than surrogates like octanol or butanol and equally well as 60:40 ethanol/water for blood. For adipose tissue/water partitioning, the experimentally determined octanol/water partition coefficient performs best but the rmse is at the same range as our LSER approach based on experimentally determined descriptors. Further, we applied our approach for 248 extractables where we calculated blood/low density polyethylene (LDPE) and adipose tissue/LDPE partition coefficients. By this approach, we successfully identified chemicals of potential interest to a toxicological evaluation based on the total risk score.
Development and Verification of a Japanese Pediatric Physiologically Based Pharmacokinetic Model with Emphasis on Drugs Eliminated by Cytochrome P450 or Renal Excretion
Authors: Johnson Trevor N. , Abduljalil Khaled , Pan Xian , Emoto Chie
Published: July 2023

Physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) models are useful in bridging drug exposure in different ethnic groups, and there is increasing regulatory application of this approach in adults. Reported pediatric PBPK models tend to focus on the North European population, with few examples in other ethnic groups. This study describes the development and verification of a Japanese pediatric PBPK population. The development of the model was based on the existing North European pediatric population. Japanese systems and clinical data were collated from public databases and the literature, and the underlying demographics and equations were optimized so that physiological outputs represented the Japanese pediatric population. The model was tested using 14 different small molecule drugs, eliminated by a variety of pathways, including cytochrome P450 3A4 (CYP3A4) metabolism and renal excretion. Given the limitations of the clinical data, the overall performance of the model was good, with 44/62 predictions for PK parameters (area under the plasma drug concentration–time curve, AUC; maximum serum concentration, Cmax; clearance, CL) being within 0.8‐ to 1.25‐fold, 56/62 within 0.67‐ to 1.5‐fold, and 61/62 within 0.5‐ to 2.0‐fold of the observed values. Specific results for the 5 CYP3A4 substrates showed 20/31 cases were predicted within 0.8‐ to 1.25‐fold, 27/31 within 0.67‐ to 1.5‐fold, and all were within 0.5‐ to 2.0‐fold of the observed values. Given the increased regulatory use of pediatric PBPK in drug development, expanding these models to other ethnic groups are important. Considering qualifying these models based on the context of use, there is a need to expand on the current research to include a larger range of drugs with different elimination pathways. Collaboration among academic, industry, model providers, and regulators will facilitate further development.
Self‐Assembly of Glycolipid Epimers: Their Supramolecular Morphology Control and Immunoactivation Function
Authors: Xu Xuyang , Li Long , Ye Linfei , Liu Xiaomei , Feng Yingle , Chen Guosong
Published: July 2023

Although advances have been made in carbohydrate‐based macromolecular self‐assembly, harnessing epimers of carbohydrates to perform molecular assembly and further investigating the properties of supramolecular materials remain little explored. Herein, two classes of stereoisomeric glycolipid amphiphiles based on d‐N‐acetylgalactosamine (GalNAc) are reported, and they can aggregate into ribbon‐like structures in the aqueous solution due to amphiphilic property, which allow to obtain glycocalyx‐mimicking supramolecular materials. The subtle distinction in glycoside configuration of GalNAc‐α‐SSA and GalNAc‐β‐SSA dictates the different molecular packing in self‐assembled structures. Since driven by the distinguishing carbohydrate–carbohydrate interactions, the ribbon‐like architectures transform into spherical nanostructures via mixing GalNAc‐α‐SSA and GalNAc‐β‐SSA. The resulting spherical micelles fabricated by blending glycolipid epimers can potentiate the macrophage‐ and dendritic cell‐mediated immune responses in vitro. Such glycolipid epimers will pave the way to create glycocalyx‐mimicking immune modulators by incorporating stereochemistry into supramolecular self‐assembly.
Clinically actionable secondary findings in 130 triads from sub‐Saharan African families with non‐syndromic orofacial clefts
Authors: Oladayo Abimbola , Gowans Lord Jephthah Joojo , Awotoye Waheed , Alade Azeez , Busch Tamara , Naicker Thirona , Eshete Mekonen A. , Adeyemo Wasiu L. , Hetmanski Jacqueline B. , Zeng Erliang , Adamson Olawale , Adeleke Chinyere , Li Mary , Sule Veronica , Kayali Sami , Olotu Joy , Mossey Peter A. , Obiri‐Yeboah Solomon , Buxo Carmen J. , Beaty Terri , Taub Margaret , Donkor Peter , Marazita Mary L. , Odukoya Oluwakemi , Adeyemo Adebowale A. , Murray Jeffrey C. , Prince Anya , Butali Azeez
Published: July 2023

Introduction

The frequency and implications of secondary findings (SFs) from genomic testing data have been extensively researched. However, little is known about the frequency or reporting of SFs in Africans, who are underrepresented in large‐scale population genomic studies. The availability of data from the first whole‐genome sequencing for orofacial clefts in an African population motivated this investigation.

Methods

In total, 130 case‐parent trios were analyzed for SFs within the ACMG SFv.3.0 list genes. Additionally, we filtered for four more genes (HBB, HSD32B, G6PD and ACADM).

Results

We identified 246 unique variants in 55 genes; five variants in four genes were classified as pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP). The P/LP variants were seen in 2.3% (9/390) of the subjects, a frequency higher than ~1% reported for diverse ethnicities. On the ACMG list, pathogenic variants were observed in PRKAG (p. Glu183Lys). Variants in the PALB2 (p. Glu159Ter), RYR1 (p. Arg2163Leu) and LDLR (p. Asn564Ser) genes were predicted to be LP.

Conclusion

This study provides information on the frequency and pathogenicity of SFs in an African cohort. Early risk detection will help reduce disease burden and contribute to efforts to increase knowledge of the distribution and impact of actionable genomic variants in diverse populations.
Effect of bladder outlet procedures on urodynamic assessments in men with an acontractile or underactive detrusor: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: van Merode Nadine A. M. , Nijholt Ingrid M. , Heesakkers John P. , van Koeveringe Gommert A. , Steffens Martijn G. , Witte Lambertus P. W.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To review the effect of bladder outlet procedures on urodynamic outcomes and symptom scores in males with detrusor underactivity (DU) or acontractile detrusors (AD).

Materials and Methods

We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of research publications derived from PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Ovid Medline to identify clinical studies of adult men with non‐neurogenic DU or AD who underwent any bladder outlet procedure. Outcomes comprised the detrusor pressure at maximum flow (PdetQmax), maximum flow rate (Qmax), international prostate symptom score (IPSS), and quality of life (QoL). This study is registered under PROSPERO CRD42020215832.

Results

We included 13 studies of bladder outlet procedures, of which 6 reported decreased and 7 reported improved PdetQmax after the procedure. Meta‐analysis revealed an increase in the pooled mean PdetQmax of 5.99 cmH20 after surgery (95% CI: 0.59−11.40; p = 0.03; I2 95%). Notably, the PdetQmax improved in all subgroups with a preoperative bladder contractility index (BCI) <50 and decreased in all subgroups with a BCI ≥50. All studies reported an improved Qmax after surgery, with a pooled mean difference of 5.87 mL/s (95% CI: 4.25−7.49; I2 93%). Only three studies reported QoL, but pooling suggested significant improvements after surgery (mean, −2.41 points; 95% CI: −2.81 to −2.01; p = 0.007). All seven studies reporting IPSS demonstrated improvement (mean, −12.82; 95% CI: −14.76 to −10.88; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This review shows that PdetQmax and Qmax increases after surgical bladder outlet procedures in men with DU and AD. Bladder outlet procedures should be discussed as part of the shared decision‐making process for this group. The evidence was of low to very low certainty.
On the excessive use of coefficient of variation as a metric of quantitation quality in proteomics
Authors: Ivanov Mark V. , Garibova Leyla A. , Postoenko Valeriy I. , Levitsky Lev I. , Gorshkov Mikhail V.
Published: July 2023

The coefficient of variation (CV) is often used in proteomics as a proxy to characterize the performance of a quantitation method and/or the related software. In this note, we question the excessive reliance on this metric in quantitative proteomics that may result in erroneous conclusions. We support this note using a ground‐truth Human‐Yeast‐E. coli dataset demonstrating in a number of cases that erroneous data processing methods may lead to a low CV which has nothing to do with these methods’ performances in quantitation.