bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rapid Self‐Pumping Organohydrogel Dressing with Hydrophilic Fractal Microchannels to Promote Burn Wound Healing
Authors: Lan Jinze , Shi Lianxin , Xiao Wuyi , Zhang Xiaobin , Wang Shutao
Published: June 2023

Burn wounds pose great challenges for conventional dressings because massive exudates oversecreted from swollen tissues and blisters seriously delay wound healing. Herein, a self‐pumping organohydrogel dressing with hydrophilic fractal microchannels is reported that can rapidly drain excessive exudates with ≈30 times enhancement in efficiency compared with the pure hydrogel, and effectively promote burn wound healing. A creaming‐assistant emulsion interfacial polymerization approach is proposed to create the hydrophilic fractal hydrogel microchannels in the self‐pumping organohydrogel through a dynamic floating‐colliding‐coalescing process of organogel precursor droplets. In a murine burn wound model, the rapid self‐pumping organohydrogel dressings can markedly reduce dermal cavity by ≈42.5%, accelerate blood vessel regeneration by ≈6.6 times, and hair follicle regeneration by ≈13.5 times, compared with the commercial dressing (Tegaderm). This study paves an avenue for designing high‐performance functional burn wound dressings.
Manipulation of Charge Dynamics for Efficient and Bright Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes with Chiral Ligands
Authors: Zhang Lingjiao , Hu Sujuan , Guo Min , Ren Yunfei , Wei Linfeng , Li Wenxuan , Lin Faxu , Yang Zhiyong , Yang Zhenyu , Liu Chuan , Liu Baiquan
Published: June 2023

Perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) emerge as a promising class of optoelectronic devices for next‐generation displays and lighting technology. However, the performance of blue PeLEDs lags far behind that of their green and red counterparts, including the unachieved trade‐off between high efficiency and high luminance, severe efficiency roll‐off, and unsatisfactory power efficiency. Here, a multi‐functional chiral ligand of L‐phenylalanine methyl ester hydrochloride is strategically introduced into quasi‐2D perovskites, which can effectively passivate defects, modulate the phase distribution, improve photoluminescence quantum yield, guarantee high‐quality film morphology, and enhance charge transport. Furthermore, ladder‐like hole transport layers are established, boosting charge injection and balance. The resultant sky‐blue PeLEDs (the photoluminescence peak is 493 nm and the electroluminescence peak is 497 nm) exhibit an external quantum efficiency of 12.43% at 1000 cd m−2 and a record power efficiency of 18.42 lm W−1, rendering that the performance is among the best blue PeLEDs.
Structural Color Mixing in Microcapsules through Exclusive Crystallization of Binary and Ternary Colloids
Authors: Yang Sehee , Kim Young Geon , Park Sanghyuk , Kim Shin‐Hyun
Published: June 2023

Colloidal crystals are designed as photonic microparticles for various applications. However, conventional microparticles generally have only one stopband from a single lattice constant, which restricts the range of colors and optical codes available. Here, photonic microcapsules are created that contain two or three distinct crystalline grains, resulting in dual or triple stopbands that offer a wider range of colors through structural color mixing. To produce distinct colloidal crystallites from binary or ternary colloidal mixtures, the interparticle interaction is manipulated using depletion forces in double‐emulsion droplets. Aqueous dispersions of binary or ternary colloidal mixtures in the innermost droplet are gently concentrated in the presence of a depletant and salt by imposing hypertonic conditions. Different‐sized particles crystallize into their own crystals rather than forming random glassy alloys to minimize free energy. The average size of the crystalline grains can be adjusted with osmotic pressure, and the relative ratio of distinct grains can be controlled with the mixing ratio of particles. The resulting microcapsules with small grains and high surface coverage are almost optically isotropic and exhibit highly‐saturated mixed structural colors and multiple reflectance peaks. The mixed color and reflectance spectrum are controllable with the selection of particle sizes and mixing ratios.
Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Quantum Dots on Graphene for Field‐Effect Transistor Optoelectronic Memories
Authors: Chaudhary Mahima , Xin Chenghao , Hu Zhelu , Zhang Dongjiu , Radtke Guillaume , Xu Xiangzhen , Billot Laurent , Tripon‐Canseliet Charlotte , Chen Zhuoying
Published: June 2023

The development of field‐effect transistor‐based (FET‐based) non‐volatile optoelectronic memories is vital toward innovations necessary to improve computer systems. In this work, for the first time, the unique charge‐trapping and charge‐retention properties of solution‐processed colloidal nitrogen‐doped carbon quantum dots (CQDs) are harnessed to achieve functional optoelectronic memories programmable by UV illumination with a multilevel writing possibility. Of particular note, long‐lasting memory function can be achieved thanks to the vast charge trapping sites provided by the N‐doped CQDs and the resultant photo‐gating effect is exercised on the graphene FET. The achieved memory can be erased by a positive gate bias which provides sufficient carriers to remove trapped charges through recombination. This study highlights the possibility to engineer high‐performance all‐carbon non‐volatile FET‐based optoelectronic memories through manipulating and coupling the charge‐trapping properties of colloidal CQDs and graphene.
Dynamics of the Lithium Metal Electrodeposition: Effects of a Gas Bubble
Authors: Jin Shoutong , Zhou Linming , Wu Yongjun , Zhu Shang , Zhang Qilong , Yang Hui , Huang Yuhui , Hong Zijian
Published: June 2023

Understanding the dynamics of lithium metal electrodeposition is crucial to designing safe and reliable lithium metal anodes. In this study, a grand potential‐based phase‐field model is developed to investigate the effect of a gas bubble (which forms due to the internal side reactions) on the dynamics of the dendrite growth during electrodeposition. It is observed that with the presence of a static gas bubble, the dendrite growth is largely accelerated, owing to the accumulation of lithium ions on the far side of the bubble away from the anode surface, which can serve as an ion “reservoir” for the dendrite growth, leading to the tilting of the lithium dendrites toward the bubble. The effects of the bubble size and distance to the anode are further studied, demonstrating that the larger the bubble size and the closer to the anode, the longer the lithium dendrites will grow. Notably, with a mobile bubble, the dendrite growth can be delayed due to the “stirring effect,” where the motion of the bubble can facilitate the ion migration. This effect is maximized when the bubble moving speed is close to the electrodeposition speed. It is hoped that this study can serve as an example to exploit the effect of extrinsic factors on the dendrite growth dynamics.
A qualitative exploration of patient perspectives on psychosocial burdens and positive factors in adults with osteogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Rork W. Conor , Hertz Alyssa G. , Wiese Andrew D. , Kostick Kristin M. , Nguyen Dianne , Schneider Sophie C. , Shepherd Whitney S. , Cho Hannah ,   Members of the BBDC, Murali Chaya N. , Lee Brendan , Sutton V. Reid , Storch Eric A.
Published: June 2023

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a pleiotropic, heritable connective tissue disorder associated with a wide range of health implications, including frequent bone fracture. While progress has been made to understand the spectrum of these physical health implications, the impact of OI on psychosocial well‐being, as well as protective factors that buffer against adverse psychosocial outcomes, remain understudied. This present study relies on a qualitative approach to assess patient perspectives on both protective and adverse psychosocial factors specific to OI in 15 adults with varying disease status. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted, subsequently coded, and themes extracted. Themes concerning psychosocial burdens (i.e., negative affective and behavioral impacts of disease status) and protective factors were identified from cooperatively‐coded transcripts (two coders per transcript). Participants reported experiencing an increase in negative affect and disease‐related distress after fracturing a bone and during recovery. Fear and concern specific to the uncertainty of future bone fractures and negative self‐image was common. In contrast to these negative impacts, participants additionally described positive orientations toward their disease and attributed positive traits to their lived experience with a chronic disease. While limited due to small sample size and lack of ethno‐racial diversity, findings highlight a need for continued research on the relationship between OI disease status and psychosocial outcomes, as well as the development of psychological interventions designed for OI populations. Findings have relevant clinical applications for healthcare providers working with those diagnosed with OI.
Identification and molecular characterization of two recurrent missense mutations in the RS1 gene in two families with X‐linked retinoschisis from North India
Authors: Chatterjee Souradip , Gupta Shashank , Kirola Laxmi , Chandra Abhishek , Mukherjee Ashim , Mutsuddi Mousumi
Published: June 2023

X‐linked retinoschisis (XLR) is a rare medical condition that involves in the splitting of neurosensory layers and the impairment of vision in the retina. In majority of the XLR cases, pathogenic variants in Retinoschisin 1 (RS1) gene have been implicated in males with an early age of onset during early childhood. In the present study, we have recruited two North Indian families having multiple affected male members, who were diagnosed with XLR. The entire protein‐coding region of RS1 was screened by PCR‐Sanger sequencing and two recurrent pathogenic variants (p.I81N and p.R102Q) were unraveled. The in vitro study of these variants demonstrated the aggregation of mutant RS1 within the endoplasmic reticulum. Furthermore, mutant forms of this protein showed significant intracellular retention, which was evident by the absence of retinoschisin protein fractions in the extracellular media. These inferences were also supported by extensive bioinformatics analysis of the mutants, which showed dramatic conformational changes in the local structure of retinoschisin. Thus, our study suggests that the identified pathogenic variants interfere with proper protein folding, leading to anomalous structural changes ultimately resulting in intracellular retention of retinoschisin within the retina.
Survivorship and the second epidemiological transition in industrial‐era London
Authors: Yaussy Samantha L. , DeWitte Sharon N. , Hughes‐Morey Gail
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The second epidemiological transition describes a shift in predominant causes of death from infectious to degenerative (non‐communicable) diseases associated with the demographic transition from high to low levels of mortality and fertility. In England, the epidemiological transition followed the Industrial Revolution, but there is little reliable historical data on cause of death beforehand. Because of the association between the demographic and epidemiological transitions, skeletal data can potentially be used to examine demographic trends as a proxy for the latter. This study uses skeletal data to examine differences in survivorship in London, England in the decades preceding and following initial industrialization and the second epidemiological transition.

Materials and Methods

We use data (from n = 924 adults) from London cemeteries (New Churchyard, New Bunhill Fields, St. Bride's Lower Churchyard, and St. Bride's Church Fleet Street) in use prior to and during industrialization (c. 1569–1853 CE). We assess associations between estimated adult age at death and time period (pre‐industrial vs. industrial) using Kaplan–Meier survival analysis.

Results

We find evidence of significantly lower adult survivorship prior to industrialization (c. 1569–1669 and 1670–1739 CE) compared to the industrial period (c. 1740–1853 CE) (p < 0.001).

Discussion

Our results are consistent with historical evidence that, in London, survivorship was improving in the later 18th century, prior to the recognized beginning of the second epidemiological transition. These findings support the use of skeletal demographic data to examine the context of the second epidemiological transition in past populations.
A Divergent Polyene Cyclization for the Total Synthesis of Greenwayodendrines, Greenwaylactams, Polysin and Polyveoline
Authors: Plangger Immanuel , Pinkert Tobias , Wurst Klaus , Magauer Thomas
Published: June 2023

We present a concise asymmetric total synthesis (5–8 steps) of nine sesquiterpenoid alkaloids featuring four different tetra‐/pentacyclic scaffolds. To this end, a novel, bioinspired indole N‐terminated cationic tricyclization has been developed, enabling the divergent synthesis of greenwayodendrines and polysin. Subtle variation of the C2‐substituted indole cyclization precursor allowed switching between indole N‐ and C‐termination. For the latter, a subsequent Witkop oxidation enabled conversion of the cyclopentene‐fused indole into the eight‐membered benzolactam to directly furnish the family of greenwaylactams. In addition, a diastereomeric C‐termination product has been elaborated to provide access to polyveoline.
Comparative study of the gular gland of three species of Molossidae bats (Mammalia: Chiroptera) from South America
Authors: Rodriguez Florencia Evelyn , Olea Gabriela Beatriz , Aguirre María Victoria , Argoitia María Antonella , Claver Juan , Lombardo Daniel Marcelo
Published: June 2023

The gular gland is a skin gland located in the suprasternal region of adult males of some bat families. Knowledge of the morphology and functional aspects of these gland types is often limited. This study aimed to describe the structure and composition of the gular glands of three molossid species (Eumops patagonicus, Molossus fluminensis and Molossus molossus) with respect to their reproductive activity and to define the mechanism involved in secretion release. Different histological, histochemical and immunohistochemical techniques were used to achieve these goals. The results revealed that the size and composition of this gland are variable and are mostly related to the lipid content during the reproductive season. The results also documented, for the first time, the occurrence of mechanoreceptors associated with the surface of the glandular duct by detecting an S100 protein, indicating that an external stimulus activates secretion. Previous studies on other species have classified the gland using obsolete criteria; hence, we adopted a new classification of adenomeres in this study. Moreover, we investigated the gland secretion mechanism previously proposed. This study defines the implications of this gland in the reproduction of this species. Our preliminary interpretation of the function of the gular gland is that it is a cutaneous exocrine gland activated by mechanoreceptors involved in the reproductive behaviour of the Molossidae family.
Skincare potential of a sustainable postbiotic extract produced through sugarcane straw fermentation by Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Duarte Marco , Carvalho Maria João , de Carvalho Nelson Mota , Azevedo‐Silva João , Mendes Adélia , Ribeiro Inês Pinto , Fernandes João Carlos , Oliveira Ana L. S. , Oliveira Carla , Pintado Manuela , Amaro Ana , Madureira Ana Raquel
Published: June 2023

Postbiotics are defined as a “preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host.” They can be produced by fermentation, using culture media with glucose (carbon source), and lactic acid bacteria of the genus Lactobacillus, and/or yeast, mainly Saccharomyces cerevisiae as fermentative microorganisms. Postbiotics comprise different metabolites, and have important biological properties (antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, etc.), thus their cosmetic application should be considered. During this work, the postbiotics production was carried out by fermentation with sugarcane straw, as a source of carbon and phenolic compounds, and as a sustainable process to obtain bioactive extracts. For the production of postbiotics, a saccharification process was carried out with cellulase at 55°C for 24 h. Fermentation was performed sequentially after saccharification at 30°C, for 72 h, using S. cerevisiae. The cells‐free extract was characterized regarding its composition, antioxidant activity, and skincare potential. Its use was safe at concentrations below ~20 mg mL−1 (extract's dry weight in deionized water) for keratinocytes and ~ 7.5 mg mL−1 for fibroblasts. It showed antioxidant activity, with ABTS IC50 of 1.88 mg mL−1, and inhibited elastase and tyrosinase activities by 83.4% and 42.4%, respectively, at the maximum concentration tested (20 mg mL−1). In addition, it promoted the production of cytokeratin 14, and demonstrated anti‐inflammatory activity at a concentration of 10 mg mL−1. In the skin microbiota of human volunteers, the extract inhibited Cutibacterium acnes and the Malassezia genus. Shortly, postbiotics were successfully produced using sugarcane straw, and showed bioactive properties that potentiate their use in cosmetic/skincare products.
Alginate/chitosan hydrogels as perspective transport systems for cefotaxime
Authors: Shilova Svetlana V. , Mirgaleev Grigory M. , Romanova Ksenia A. , Galyametdinov Yury G.
Published: June 2023

This work reports synthesis of pH‐responsive alginate/chitosan hydrogel spheres with the average diameter of 2.0 ± 0.05 mm, which contain cefotaxime that is an antibiotic of the cefalosporine group. The spheres provided the cefotaxime encapsulation efficiency of 95 ± 1%. An in vitro release of cefotaxime from the spheres in the media that simulate human biological fluids in peroral delivery conditions was found to be a pH‐dependent process. The analysis of cefotaxime release kinetics by the Korsmeyer–Peppas model revealed a non‐Fickian mechanism of its diffusion, which may be related to intermolecular interactions occurring between the antibiotic and chitosan. Conductometry, UV spectroscopy, and IR spectroscopy were used to study complexation of chitosan with cefotaxime in aqueous media with varied pH, characterize the composition of the complexes, and calculate their stability constants. The composition of the cefotaxime–chitosan complexes was found to correspond to the 1.0:4.0 and 1.0:2.0 molar ratios of the components at pH 2.0 and 5.6, respectively. Quantum chemical modeling was used to evaluate energy characteristics of chitosan–cefotaxime complexation considering the influence of a solvent.
Know your rights before you discuss your religious beliefs at work
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2023

BOSTON — Although some higher education administrators and faculty members have the desire to express their religious/spiritual beliefs in the workplace, they tend to hesitate to do so because they fear being pigeonholed, thwarted, or becoming a source of controversy, and they often misunderstand their legal rights in this area. That's according to Christy Moran Craft, Ph.D., Professor and Department Chair at Kansas State University, who gave a presentation at the annual conference for NASPA — Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.
Effect of receiving a customizable brochure on breast cancer patients' knowledge about their diagnosis and treatment: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Villarreal‐Garza Cynthia , Ferrigno Ana S. , De la Garza‐Ramos Cynthia , Vazquez‐Juarez Daniela , Moreno‐Jaime Brizio , Remolina‐Bonilla Yuly , Segura‐Gonzalez Manuel , Mariscal‐Ramirez Ignacio , Perazzo Florencia , Garnica‐Jaliffe Georgina , Neciosup‐Delgado Silvia , Conde‐Flores Emilio , Mysler Shirly , Hernandez‐Ayala Arlette , Barajas‐Sanchez Alondra , Rios Mercado Maria del Socorro , Noh‐Vazquez Nelia Maria , Garcia‐Rodriguez Ricardo , Platas Ana , Tamez‐Salazar Jaime , Mireles‐Aguilar Teresa , Platas Alejandra
Published: June 2023

Background

Patients' lack of knowledge about their own disease may function as a barrier to shared decision‐making and well‐being. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of written educational materials on breast cancer patients.

Methods

This multicenter, parallel, unblinded, randomized trial included Latin American women aged ≥18 years with a recent breast cancer diagnosis yet to start systemic therapy. Participants underwent randomization in a 1:1 ratio to receive a customizable or standard educational brochure. The primary objective was accurate identification of molecular subtype. Secondary objectives included identification of clinical stage, treatment options, participation in decision‐making, perceived quality of information received, and illness uncertainty. Follow‐up occurred at 7–21 and 30–51 days post‐randomization. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05798312.

Results

One hundred sixty‐five breast cancer patients with a median age of 53 years and 61 days from diagnosis were included (customizable: 82; standard: 83). At first available assessment, 52%, 48%, and 30% identified their molecular subtype, disease stage, and guideline‐endorsed systemic treatment strategy, respectively. Accurate molecular subtype and stage identification were similar between groups. Per multivariate analysis, customizable brochure recipients were more likely to identify their guideline‐recommended treatment modalities (OR: 4.20,p = 0.001). There were no differences between groups in the perceived quality of information received or illness uncertainty. Customizable brochure recipients reported increased participation in decision‐making (p = 0.042).

Conclusions

Over one third of recently diagnosed breast cancer patients are incognizant of their disease characteristics and treatment options. This study demonstrates a need to improve patient education and shows that customizable educational materials increase patients' understanding of recommended systemic therapies according to individual breast cancer characteristics.
Recent insights into the SWI/SNF complex and the molecular mechanism of hSNF5 deficiency in rhabdoid tumors
Authors: Kuwahara Yasumichi , Iehara Tomoko , Matsumoto Akifumi , Okuda Tsukasa
Published: June 2023

Genetic information encoded by DNA is packaged in the nucleus using the chromatin structure. The accessibility of transcriptional elements in DNA is controlled by the dynamic structural changes of chromatin for the appropriate regulation of gene transcription. Chromatin structure is regulated by two general mechanisms, one is histone modification and the other is chromatin remodeling in an ATP‐dependent manner. Switch/sucrose nonfermentable (SWI/SNF) complexes utilize the energy from ATP hydrolysis to mobilize nucleosomes and remodel the chromatin structure, contributing to conformational changes in chromatin. Recently, the inactivation of encoding genes for subunits of the SWI/SNF complexes has been documented in a series of human cancers, accounting for up to almost 20% of all human cancers. For example, human SNF5 (hSNF5), the gene that encodes a subunit of the SWI/SNF complexes, is the sole mutation target that drives malignant rhabdoid tumors (MRT). Despite remarkably simple genomes, the MRT has highly malignant characteristics. As a key to understanding MRT tumorigenesis, it is necessary to fully examine the mechanism of chromatin remodeling by the SWI/SNF complexes. Herein, we review the current understanding of chromatin remodeling by focusing on SWI/SNF complexes. In addition, we describe the molecular mechanisms and influences of hSNF5 deficiency in rhabdoid tumors and the prospects for developing new therapeutic targets to overcome the epigenetic drive of cancer that is caused by abnormal chromatin remodeling.
An extremely rare case of feeding jejunostomy proceeding to intussusception
Authors: Nulukurthi Taraka Krishna , Kutikuppala L. V. Simhachalam , Kuchana Sai Kiran , Găman Mihnea‐Alexandru , Koirala Samrat Babu , Boppana Sri Harsha
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

Feeding jejunostomy (FJ) is one of the frequently performed surgical procedures for enteral nutrition, but intussusception a very rare complication with quite challenging clinical outcome. It symbolizes a surgical emergency requiring prompt diagnosis.

Feeding jejunostomy (FJ) is a minor surgical intervention, which might lead to consequences that are potentially fatal. Mechanical issues such as infection, tube dislocation or migration, electrolyte and fluid imbalances, as well as complaints of gastrointestinal tract, are the most frequent consequences. A 76‐year‐old female, who is a known case of carcinoma (CA) esophagus: Stage 4 with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) Class 3 presented with complaints of difficulty in swallowing and vomiting. As a part of palliative treatment, FJ is done and patient was discharged on postoperative day (POD) 2. Patient again presented to emergency department after 2 months with complaints of pain abdomen, unable to pass flatus and stools for 2 days. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography was done, which revealed intussusception of jejunum with lead point as tip of feeding tube. Intussusception of jejunal loops is noted 20 centimeters distal to the site of insertion of FJ tube with tip of feeding tube as lead point. Reduction of bowel loops was achieved by gentle compression of distal part and are found to be viable. FJ tube was then removed and repositioned after which the obstruction got relieved. Intussusception is an extremely rare complication of FJ, where the clinical presentation can be likely to the various causes of small bowel obstruction. The fatal complications like intussusception in FJ can be prevented by remembering some technical considerations, such as attaching a 4–5 cm segment of the jejunum to the abdominal wall rather than a single‐point fixation and maintaining a minimum distance of 15 cm between the duodenojejunal (DJ) flexure and the FJ site.
Recurrent pyogenic cholangitis
Authors: Pandit Narendra , Neupane Durga
Published: June 2023

Key Clinical Message

The incidence of hepatolithiasis is variable. Globalization has additionally altered disease dynamics globally. A multi‐disciplinary team approach is deemed necessary for the timely diagnosis, safe, affordable treatment, and good prognosis.
Recent Advances in Catalytic Conversion of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF) to 2,5‐Dimethylfuran (2,5‐DMF): Mechanistic Insights and Optimization Strategies
Authors: Castillo Cristian , Brijaldo Maria H. , Silva Ludmila P. C. , Passos Fabio B.
Published: June 2023

This review article describes the most recent studies carried out in the catalytic conversion of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (5‐HMF) in 2,5‐dimethylfurane (2,5‐DMF). In this way, the most novel catalytic materials are presented and their main results during 2,5‐DMF production through catalytic hydrogen transfer (CHT) by hydrogenation and hydrogenolysis reactions and through hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) reaction as commonly routes employed. Additionally, the optimized reaction conditions applying for each catalyst are discussed. Some future perspectives on the use of CHT and HDO processes in the 2,5‐DMF production from 5‐HMF as platform molecule in order to suggest new applications of pathways in the heterogeneous catalysis field are presented.
Enantioselective Synthesis of Tropane Scaffolds by an Organocatalyzed 1,3‐Dipolar Cycloaddition of 3‐Oxidopyridinium Betaines and Dienamines
Authors: Lamhauge Johannes N. , McLeod David A. , Barløse Casper L. , Oliver Gwyndaf A. , Viborg Laura , Warburg Tobias , Anker Jørgensen Karl
Published: June 2023

Tropane alkaloids constitute a compound‐class which is structurally defined by a central 8‐azabicyclo[3.2.1]octane core. A diverse bioactivity profile combined with an unusual aza‐bridged bicyclic framework has made tropanes molecules‐of‐interest within organic chemistry. Enantioselective examples of (5+2) cycloadditions between 3‐oxidopyridinium betaines and olefins remain unexplored, despite 3‐oxidopyridinium betaines being useful reagents in organic synthesis. The first asymmetric (5+2) cycloaddition of 3‐oxidopyridinium betaines is reported, affording tropane derivatives in up to quantitative yield and with excellent control of peri‐, regio‐, diastereo‐, and enantioselectivity. The reactivity is enabled by dienamine‐activation of α,β‐unsaturated aldehydes combined with in situ formation of the pyridinium reaction‐partner. A simple N‐deprotection protocol allows for liberation of the tropane alkaloid motif, and synthetic elaborations of the cycloadducts demonstrate their synthetic utility to achieve highly diastereoselective modification around the bicyclic framework. DFT computations suggest a stepwise mechanism where regio‐ and stereoselectivity are defined during the first bond‐forming step in which the pyridinium dipole exerts critical conformational control over its dienamine partner. In the second bond‐forming step, a kinetic preference toward an initial (5+4) cycloadduct was identified; however, a lack of catalyst turn‐over, reversibility, and thermodynamic bias favoring a (5+2) cycloadduct rendered the reaction fully periselective.
Effect of chain transfer agents in polycarboxylate superplasticizer on slump‐retention of concrete
Authors: Pang Jianjun , Guo Jintang , Li Wenke , Chang Qinglu
Published: June 2023

Two types of slump‐retention polycarboxylate superplasticizers (PC‐M and PC‐S) were synthesized by using 3‐mercaptopropionic acid or sodium hypophosphite as chain transfer agents, the effects of polycarboxylate superplasticizers on slump‐retention of cement and concrete were investigated, and the mechanism of action and the structure of polycarboxylate superplasticizers were investigated by using conductivity, complexing Ca2+ concentration, gel permeation chromatography (GPC), nuclear magnetic resonance hydrogen spectroscopy (1H‐NMR), and nuclear magnetic resonance phosphorus spectroscopy (31P‐NMR). The results indicated that the slump flow of cement paste mixed with PC‐M was increased quickly within 60 min and then lost gradually, while PC‐S increased slowly and evenly within 240 min. The slump flow of concrete mixed with PC‐S reached 405 mm after 150 min, but the concrete mixed with PC‐M was almost no fluidity after 150 min. The conductivity of the PC‐M aqueous solution decreased quickly within 45 min, then slowly decreased, while the conductivity of the PC‐S aqueous solution decreased slowly within 180 min. PC‐M had a much greater complexation ability of Ca2+ than PC‐S. The composition and structure of the two slump‐retention polycarboxylate superplasticizers were altered by different chain transfer agents, and the hydrolysis‐adsorption capacity of each component was different. The rate of hydrolyzation‐adsorption of each component was PC‐M3 ≈ PC‐S3>PC‐M1>PC‐M2 ≈ PC‐S1>PC‐S2. The faster the adsorption rate, the faster the slump flow loss of concrete.
Copper Doping of CoSe2 Nanoparticles Encapsulated into Carbon Nanotubes with Enhanced Electron Conductance as Cathode for Rechargeable Magnesium Batteries
Authors: Liu Jing , Dong Huilong , Bi Runjie , Miao Xiaowei , Yang Jun , Geng Hongbo
Published: June 2023

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) have been considered a promising alternative to lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to the high energy density and abundance of magnesium resources. However, the development of high‐performance cathode materials for magnesium batteries has been a significant challenge. Herein, through comprehensive and simple hydrothermal, selenization and impregnation methods, Cu‐doped CoSe2 nanoparticles encapsulated into carbon nanotubes (Cu‐CoSe2@NC) was fabricated. CoSe2 nanoparticles confined in carbon nanotubes (CNTs) growing in three dimensions on the surface of nanofibers have abundant active sites and high doping degree. Cu doping further improves the electron conductance of the Cu‐CoSe2@NC for RMBs. As cathode, Cu‐CoSe2@NC delivers a reversible capacity of 294 mAh g−1 at 20 mA g−1 and 104 mAg g−1 at 500 mA g−1, which exhibits a reasonable specific capacity and rate capability. The characterization of the Cu‐CoSe2@NC by ex‐situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) after cycles shows that it can be well adapted to the (de)intercalation of magnesium ions. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculation shows that CoSe2 band gap decreases obviously after Cu doping, favoring the electron and ion transport. This work provides a reference for the design of cathode materials based on transition metal selenide for RMBs.
Undifferentiated component of dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma presenting as a “small round cell” malignancy in a mediastinal lymph node, mimicking small cell carcinoma
Authors: Balikani Lame , Policarpio‐Nicolas Maria Luisa C.
Published: June 2023

Undifferentiated/dedifferentiated endometrial carcinoma is an uncommon malignant neoplasm of the endometrium that can present as a diagnostic challenge, especially in a metastatic setting. We present a case of a 70‐year‐old woman with a prior endometrial biopsy diagnosed as endometrioid carcinoma, FIGO Grade 2. Chest computerized tomography showed moderate to severe centrilobular emphysema with a 3 mm nodule in the right upper lobe and posterior mediastinal lymphadenopathy. Fine needle aspiration smears of the mediastinal lymph node showed predominantly single and loosely cohesive tumor cells with scant basophilic cytoplasm, prominent nuclear streaking, and molding. Inconspicuous nucleoli and mitotic figures were present. Immunohistochemical (IHC) stains showed the tumor cells were positive for CD56 and synaptophysin but negative for AE1/AE3, CAM5.2, CK7, CK20, TTF‐1, INSM1, chromogranin, CD99, HMB45, SOX10, EBV‐LMP1, and desmin. Flow cytometry was negative for lymphoma. Based on the overall cytologic findings and significant smoking history, a small cell carcinoma could not be excluded. Similar morphologic findings were identified on the corresponding lymph node biopsy. Because of the history of endometrial carcinoma, additional IHC stains (PAX 8, ER, and EMA) were done but were negative. However, the mismatch repair proteins revealed loss of MLH1 and PMS2 with retained MSH2 and MSH6 nuclear expression. Hence, a metastatic undifferentiated component of a dedifferentiated carcinoma from the patients' endometrial primary was favored and subsequently confirmed on the hysterectomy specimen.
Diagnostic difficulties in non‐tuberculous mycobacterial infection in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Mahjabin FNU , Gonsalves Catherine , Pilo Rebecca A. , Beal Stacy G. , Leon Marino E.
Published: June 2023

Despite antimicrobial prophylaxis, 34% to 59% of lung transplant recipients experience severe life–threatening opportunistic infections, sometimes caused by Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) and Nocardia. Although differentiating these infections is of utmost importance for effective treatment, it can be challenging as they share morphological and growth characteristics. Therefore, culture remains the gold standard for laboratory confirmation. With the aid of novel molecular methods performed on the cultured organisms, diagnosis may be accomplished rapidly and precisely. We present a case of a lung transplant recipient with a pulmonary infection where long, thin, beaded, branching filamentous organisms were seen with Acid‐Fast Bacilli (AFB) and Modified Gomori's Methenamine Silver (GMS) stains in bronchoalveolar lavage sample. Cytological characteristics led to the suspicion of a Nocardia species infection. However, culture and the PCR‐restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis (PRA) identified M. fortuitum. Additionally, antibiotic resistance was detected, which aided in choosing the appropriate treatment. Therefore, to overcome such diagnostic difficulties to differentiate NTM and Nocardia, a multidisciplinary approach including culture, molecular methods, and cytology is needed to enhance clinical outcomes.
Intussusception associated with pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis in a male adolescent: A case report
Authors: Horiuchi Yugo , Miyaguchi Kazuya , Matsumoto Hisashi , Ohgo Hideki , Tsuzuki Yoshikazu , Nakamoto Hidetomo , Imaeda Hiroyuki
Published: June 2023

Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is an uncommon disease that rarely causes intussusception. We report the case of a 16‐year‐old male patient with intermittent abdominal pain who was diagnosed with intussusception. The patient had no history of raw food ingestion, fever, diarrhea, or hematochezia. Computed tomography revealed intussusception characterized by a crab‐finger appearance, and pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis was diagnosed by colonoscopy. Treatment with hyperbaric enema and low‐flow oxygen therapy resulted in a prominent improvement of the lesion. No recurrence was observed for > 1 year. Intermittent abdominal pain without diarrhea or hematochezia in male adolescents may represent pneumatosis cystoid‐related intussusception, and the addition of low‐flow oxygen therapy may help avoid surgery.
Polychloromethylation‐Initiated Radical 1,2‐Aryl Migration of α,α‐Diarylallyl Alcohols via Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Wu Xian , Xiang Chengli , Yu Jin‐Tao
Published: June 2023

A visible‐light induced radical 1,2‐aryl migration of α,α‐diarylallyl alcohols was developed under mild and metal‐free conditions. Commercially available CHCl3 and CH2Cl2 were used as tri‐ and dichloromethyl radical precursors. Structurally diverse β‐polochloromethylated ketones were obtained in good to moderate yields via neophyl‐type rearrangement. Besides, the polychloromethyl group can be easily transformed into other useful functional groups.
Synergistic mediating effect of edible fungal polysaccharides (Auricularia and Tremellan) and Crataegus flavonoids in hyperlipidemic rats
Authors: Shi Ke , Zhou Tao , Yuan Yu‐fei , Li Dan‐dan , Gong Bin‐bin , Gao Shan , Chen Qi‐jia , Li Yan‐dong , Han Xue
Published: June 2023

Both edible fungal polysaccharides (Auricularia and Tremellan) and Crataegus flavonoids promote the balance of dyslipidemia, which have a positive biological regulating effect on intestinal flora. In this study, the extraction of water‐soluble polysaccharides from Auricularia and Tremellan was investigated and optimized firstly. Polysaccharides and flavonoids were then combined to study the effects on the mediating role of abnormal blood lipid concentration and intestinal flora in vivo. The rats were divided into 10 groups, the NC (normal control), HM (model), PCI (Simvastatin control), PCII (Fenofibrate control), AAP (Auricularia auricular Polysaccharide), TFP (Tremella fuciformis Polysaccharide), HF (Crataegus Flavonoid), LDC (Low‐dose combination), MDC (Medium dose combination), and HDC (High‐dose combination), used to explore the impact of polysaccharides and flavonoids complex on state of blood lipid, liver, and intestinal flora of dyslipidemia rats. The results showed that the combination of polysaccharides and flavonoids could significantly decrease the levels of triglyceride (TG), total cholesterol (TC), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL‐C), and increase the level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). It also significantly decreased the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and improved liver morphology. What is more, the HDC favorably alters the intestinal microflora balance, promotes intestinal integrity and mobility, and inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria such as Escherichia coli/Shigella and Clostridium compared with HM group. In brief, the combination of polysaccharides and flavonoids had a synergistic effect on the remission of dyslipidemia, and promoted health by improving lipid metabolism, protecting liver tissue, and regulating the intestinal flora in hyperlipidemia rats.
Nutritional status and dietary diversity of pregnant and nonpregnant reproductive‐age Rohingya women
Authors: Fahim Shah Mohammad , Das Subhasish , Rasul Md. Golam , Zaman Mahabub Uz , Alam Md. Ashraful , Afrin Sazia , Saqeeb Kazi Nazmus , Hasan Md. Mahmudul , Alam A. F. M. Mahbubul , Chowdhury Morseda , Ahmed Tahmeed
Published: June 2023

There are no data on the nutritional status and dietary diversity of the pregnant and nonpregnant reproductive‐age Rohingya women who have recently shifted to the Bhasan Char Relocation Camp located on an island in the Bay of Bengal. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted in November–December, 2021 to assess the nutritional status and evaluate the dietary diversity of two vulnerable groups of the forcibly displaced Rohingya population: nonpregnant reproductive‐age women and pregnant mothers. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to identify the factors associated with nutritional impairments. Overall, 7.6% of the nonpregnant reproductive‐age women were underweight (Body Mass Index [BMI] < 18.5 kg/m2), and nearly one‐third of them had a BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. However, 26.7% of the pregnant mothers were undernourished (BMI < 20.0 kg/m2) and almost one‐fourth of them were either overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25.0 kg/m2). The prevalence of thinness (Mid Upper Arm Circumference [MUAC] < 23 cm) was 34.5% among pregnant mothers, and 10.1% of them were severely thin (MUAC < 21 cm). The mean (±SD) of the Women's Dietary Diversity Score (WDDS) was 3.3 (±1.1) for nonpregnant reproductive‐age women and 3.7 (±1.3) for pregnant mothers enrolled in this study. Overall, 63.8% of the nonpregnant women of childbearing age and 46% of the pregnant mothers had a low WDDS (WDDS < 4). The WDDS was found to be protective against thinness among nonpregnant reproductive‐age women (AOR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.37, 0.93; p‐value = .03) and low BMI in pregnant mothers (AOR = 0.71; 95% CI = 0.55, 0.91; p‐value = .01). The results of this survey will assist in early recognition of the nutritional demands, and act as a guide to planning nutrition‐based programs among Rohingya reproductive‐age women relocated to the Bhasan Char Island.
Phenotypic variance partitioning by transcriptomic gene expression levels and environmental variables for anthropometric traits using GTEx data
Authors: Jullian Fabres Pastor , Lee S. Hong
Published: June 2023

Phenotypic variation in human is the results of genetic variation and environmental influences. Understanding the contribution of genetic and environmental components to phenotypic variation is of great interest. The variance explained by genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) typically represents a small proportion of the phenotypic variance for complex traits, which may be because the genome is only a part of the whole biological process to shape the phenotypes. In this study, we propose to partition the phenotypic variance of three anthropometric traits, using gene expression levels and environmental variables from GTEx data. We use the gene expression of four tissues that are deemed relevant for the anthropometric traits (two adipose tissues, skeletal muscle tissue and blood tissue). Additionally, we estimate the transcriptome–environment correlation that partly underlies the phenotypes of the anthropometric traits. We found that genetic factors play a significant role in determining body mass index (BMI), with the proportion of phenotypic variance explained by gene expression levels of visceral adipose tissue being 0.68 (SE = 0.06). However, we also observed that environmental factors such as age, sex, ancestry, smoking status, and drinking alcohol status have a small but significant impact (0.005, SE = 0.001). Interestingly, we found a significant negative correlation between the transcriptomic and environmental effects on BMI (transcriptome–environment correlation = −0.54, SE = 0.14), suggesting an antagonistic relationship. This implies that individuals with lower genetic profiles may be more susceptible to the effects of environmental factors on BMI, while those with higher genetic profiles may be less susceptible. We also show that the estimated transcriptomic variance varies across tissues, e.g., the gene expression levels of whole blood tissue and environmental variables explain a lower proportion of BMI phenotypic variance (0.16, SE = 0.05 and 0.04, SE = 0.004 respectively). We observed a significant positive correlation between transcriptomic and environmental effects (1.21, SE = 0.23) for this tissue. In conclusion, phenotypic variance partitioning can be done using gene expression and environmental data even with a small sample size (n = 838 from GTEx data), which can provide insights into how the transcriptomic and environmental effects contribute to the phenotypes of the anthropometric traits.
Predictors of neurocognitive and psychological disorders in children after intensive care admission: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Yuliarto Saptadi , Ramadhanti Ardhanis , Khalasha Takhta , Kadafi Kurniawan Taufiq , Ariani Ariani
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

Children admitted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) often deal with long‐term morbidities affecting physical, cognitive, emotional, social, and psychiatric symptoms. We aimed to identify the internal and external factors which predict the occurrence of neurocognitive and psychological disorders in survivors at 3 months after PICU discharge.

Methods

We identified 53 critically ill children, ages 4–18 years old, admitted in PICU for more than 24 h, and survived. We evaluated neurocognitive disorder with Pediatric Cerebral Perfomance Category (PCPC) and psychological disorders with Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at the time of PICU discharge and repeated in 3 months afterward. We evaluated the internal and external risk factors related to neurocognitive and psychological disorders in PICU survivors. The internal risk factors were age, gender, family composition, and socioeconomic status. The external risk factors were: surgical intervention, neurological disease, predicted death rate by pediatric index mortality (PIM)‐2 score, PICU length of stay (LOS), days of mechanical ventilation, and the number of therapeutic interventions.

Results

There were significant improvement in neurocognitive disorders (p < 0.001), peer problems, (p = 0.01), and prosocial behaviors (p = 0.00) in children at 3 months after the PICU discharge. Age of 4–5 years has a significant effect on neurocognitive disorders (p = 0.04), while male gender (p = 0.02), low‐social economy, non‐intact family composition (p = 0.01), neurological disease (p = 0.04), surgical intervention (p = 0.01), and TISS score (p = 0.00) have a significant effect on psychological disorders in children at 3 months after the PICU discharge

Conclusion

Neurocognitive disorders, peer problems, and prosocial behaviors improved in a few patients 3 months after PICU discharge. Age of 4–5 years was a risk factor of the persisted neurocognitive disorder, whereas male gender, low‐social economy, non‐intact family composition, neurological disease, surgical intervention, and TISS score were risk factors of persisted psychological disorder at 3 months after PICU.