bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic Zinc in Liquid Metal Media as a Metal Ion Source for Highly Porous ZIF‐8 Synthesis
Authors: Zheng Jiewei , Sharma Astha , Kumeria Tushar , Chi Yuan , Ghasemian Mohammad B. , Mao Guangzhao , Tang Jianbo , Kumar Priyank , Rahim Md. Arifur , Kalantar‐Zadeh Kourosh
Published: March 2023

Liquid metals provide new dimensions for controlling and governing of reactions. The concept of freely moving metal solutes in liquid metals can be potentially used for enhancing and tuning interfacial reactions. In this work, zinc (Zn), as the solute metal is shown that, can move to the interface, enriching the interfacial area for the efficient synthesis of highly crystalline and porous zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8). The highest rate of reaction is illustrated, and the best quality ZIF‐8, are obtained when a eutectic liquid metal system of Zn with gallium (Ga), containing 3.6 wt.% of Zn, is implemented. It is computationally shown that a combination of Ga activation and freely moving Zn leads to the highest reaction rate and better coordination with organic linkers. The comparisons with solid samples and non‐eutectic systems of Ga liquid demonstrate the advantages of eutectic mix. The work can be expanded to a variety of future interfacial reactions of zeolite imidazole frameworks for commercial scale up.
Robust Thermal Neutron Detection by LiInP2Se6 Bulk Single Crystals
Authors: Du Ziwan , Lai Yuxuan , Bai Ruirong , Wang Bolun , Zheng Qiang , Xu Chuan , Lu Teng , Pei Jun , Li Wei , Wu Yu‐Ning , Liu Kai , Liu Yun , Fu Engang , Li Jing‐Feng , Yang Yigang , Li Qian
Published: March 2023

Direct neutron detection based on semiconductor crystals holds promise to transform current neutron detector technologies and further boosts their widespread applications. It is, however, long impeded by the dearth of suitable materials in the form of sizeable bulk crystals. Here, high‐quality centimeter‐sized LiInP2Se6 single crystals are developed using the Bridgman method and their structure and property characteristics are systematically investigated. The prototype detectors fabricated from the crystals demonstrate an energy resolution of 53.7% in response to α‐particles generated from an 241Am source and robust, well‐defined response spectra to thermal neutrons that exhibit no polarization or degradation effects under prolonged neutron/γ‐ray irradiation. The primary mechanisms of Se‐vacancy and InLi antisite defects in the carrier trapping process are also identified. Such insights are critical for further enhancing the energy resolution of LiInP2Se6 bulk crystals toward the intrinsic level (≈8.6% as indicated by the chemical vapor transport‐grown thin crystals). These results pave the way for practically adopting LiInP2Se6 single crystals in new‐generation solid‐state neutron detectors.
Novel Organic Superbase Dopants for Ultraefficient N‐Doping of Organic Semiconductors
Authors: Wei Huan , Cheng Zehong , Wu Tong , Liu Yu , Guo Jing , Chen Ping‐An , Xia Jiangnan , Xie Haihong , Qiu Xincan , Liu Tingting , Zhang Bohan , Hui Jingshu , Zeng Zebing , Bai Yugang , Hu Yuanyuan
Published: March 2023

Doping is a powerful technique for engineering the electrical properties of organic semiconductors (OSCs), yet efficient n‐doping of OSCs remains a central challenge. Herein, the discovery of two organic superbase dopants, namely P2‐t‐Bu and P4‐t‐Bu as ultra‐efficient n‐dopants for OSCs is reported. Typical n‐type semiconductors such as N2200 and PC61BM are shown to experience a significant increase of conductivity upon doping by the two dopants. In particular, the optimized electrical conductivity of P2‐t‐Bu‐doped PC61BM reaches a record‐high value of 2.64 S cm−1. The polaron generation efficiency of P2‐t‐Bu‐doped in PC61BM is found to be over 35%, which is 2–3 times higher than that of benchmark n‐dopant N‐DMBI. In addition, a deprotonation‐initiated, nucleophilic‐attack‐based n‐doping mechanism is proposed for the organic superbases, which involves the deprotonation of OSC molecules, the nucleophilic attack of the resulting carbanions on the OSC's π‐bonds, and the subsequent n‐doping through single electron transfer process between the anionized and neutral OSCs. This work highlights organic superbases as promising n‐dopants for OSCs and opens up opportunities to explore and develop highly efficient n‐dopants.
Tailoring the Plasticity of Topologically Close‐Packed Phases via the Crystals’ Fundamental Building Blocks
Authors: Luo Wei , Xie Zhuocheng , Zhang Siyuan , Guénolé Julien , Sun Pei‐Ling , Meingast Arno , Alhassan Amel , Zhou Xuyang , Stein Frank , Pizzagalli Laurent , Berkels Benjamin , Scheu Christina , Korte‐Kerzel Sandra
Published: March 2023

Brittle topologically close‐packed precipitates form in many advanced alloys. Due to their complex structures, little is known about their plasticity. Here, a strategy is presented to understand and tailor the deformability of these complex phases by considering the Nb–Co µ‐phase as an archetypal material. The plasticity of the Nb–Co µ‐phase is controlled by the Laves phase building block that forms parts of its unit cell. It is found that between the bulk C15–NbCo2 Laves and Nb–Co µ‐phases, the interplanar spacing and local stiffness of the Laves phase building block change, leading to a strong reduction in hardness and stiffness, as well as a transition from synchroshear to crystallographic slip. Furthermore, as the composition changes from Nb6Co7 to Nb7Co6, the Co atoms in the triple layer are substituted such that the triple layer of the Laves phase building block becomes a slab of pure Nb, resulting in inhomogeneous changes in elasticity and a transition from crystallographic slip to a glide‐and‐shuffle mechanism. These findings open opportunities to purposefully tailor the plasticity of these topologically close‐packed phases in the bulk by manipulating the interplanar spacing and local shear modulus of the fundamental crystal building blocks at the atomic scale.
Technology and Materials for Passive Manipulation of the Solar Spectrum in Greenhouses
Authors: Mishra Kshiti , Stanghellini Cecilia , Hemming Silke
Published: March 2023

Greenhouse horticulture grows increasingly important due to its ability to provide a controlled microclimate which is optimizable for highly efficient crop growth and resource use, although it may come at a significant energy and investment cost. One of the most crucial inputs in any greenhouse is sunlight, giving free energy and light for greenhouse crop growth. However, it is enormously variable, both geographically and seasonally. This review discusses materials and technologies usable in greenhouse cover and screen materials which can passively manipulate the incident sunlight to transmit a light spectrum that is ideal for crop growth, thereby improving the yield, and for greenhouse microclimate management, thereby reducing the energy usage of greenhouses. The current status of spectrum‐manipulating technology in greenhouses, developments over the last few years, some potential innovations adaptable from diverse fields to greenhouse horticulture, and the associated challenges, are discussed.
Adaptation of the Solar Spectrum to Improve the use of Sunlight: A Critical Review on Techniques, Applications, and Current Trends
Authors: Kandil Abdalrhman A. , Salem Mohamed S. , Awad Mohamed M. , Sultan Gamal I.
Published: March 2023

Photovoltaic (PV) cells are one of the most common devices to harvest solar radiation and convert it into usable electrical power. However, normal silicone‐based photovoltaic cells work best within the visible light region. Conventional PV panels can use 15–30% of the total energy received, while the remainder is reflected or converted into waste heat. Not only do other wavelengths have lower conversion efficiencies, but they may also increase the cell surface temperature and decrease its overall efficiency. To solve this problem, spectral beam splitting is a potential approach for converting solar energy efficiently. Even though spectral‐splitting systems have high theoretical conversion efficiencies, they have not yet reached the commercial level. The current study describes the advancements in beam‐splitting systems based on thermal PV cells, multijunction cells, nano‐film, conventional, and nanofluids over the last decade. The mechanisms of various splitting system techniques and several hybrid applications are thoroughly discussed in order to provide a comprehensive understanding of solar energy utilization and the considerations influencing system efficiency. Even though the cost increase can be offset by the increased energy conversion efficiency and controlled wavelengths, the system's stability must be addressed for future practical applications.
Performance Evaluation and Degradation Mechanism for Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell with Dual Exhaust Gas Recirculation
Authors: Liu Yang , Tu Zhengkai , Chan Siew Hwa
Published: March 2023

Fuel gas utilization and water management are particularly challenging integrated engineering problems in hydrogen–oxygen proton exchange membrane fuel cell (H2/O2 PEMFC) systems. Herein, a standardized process is adopted to evaluate the performance and investigate the degradation mechanisms of a PEMFC with dual exhaust gas recirculation. The purpose of incorporating recirculation subsystems in the fuel cell is to achieve a high fuel gas utilization rate and realize effective water management inside the stack, which consists of 3D‐printed ejectors and a customized recirculation pump. Evaluation of the electrochemical performance degradation and morphological characterization of the fuel cells under different operating strategies are performed after 50 h durability experiments. At a current density of 400 mA cm−2, the performance degradation rates of the stack decrease from 16.50% to 7.49% and 0.71% in the ejector and recirculation pump operation strategies, respectively. The results show that using exhaust gas recirculation devices (ejector/pump) in the fuel cell stack can help in effectively mitigating water flooding and chemical degradation of the membrane electrode assembly. The findings of the study provide a perspective on the exhaust gas recirculation behavior and contribute to the engineering application of H2/O2 PEMFCs.
An Optochemical Oxygen Scavenger Enabling Spatiotemporal Control of Hypoxia
Authors: Ieda Naoya , Sawada Masato , Oguchi Runa , Itoh Masato , Hirakata Seina , Saitoh Daisuke , Nakao Akito , Kawaguchi Mitsuyasu , Sawamoto Kazunobu , Yoshihara Toshitada , Mori Yasuo , Nakagawa Hidehiko
Published: March 2023

We present an optochemical O2 scavenging system that enables precise spatiotemporal control of the level of hypoxia in living cells simply by adjusting the light intensity in the illuminated region. The system employs rhodamine containing a selenium or tellurium atom as an optochemical oxygen scavenger that rapidly consumes O2 by photochemical reaction with glutathione as a coreductant upon visible light irradiation (560–590 nm) and has a rapid response time, within a few minutes. The glutathione‐consuming quantum yields of the system were calculated as about 5 %. The spatiotemporal O2 consuming in cultured cells was visualized with a hypoxia‐responsive fluorescence probe, MAR. Phosphorescence lifetime imaging was applied to confirmed that different light intensities could generate different levels of hypoxia. To illustrate the potential utility of this system for hypoxia research, we show that it can spatiotemporally control calcium ion (Ca2+) influx into HEK293T cells expressing the hypoxia‐responsive Ca2+ channel TRPA1.
Nickel(II) Nitrate Hole‐Transporting Layers for Single‐Junction Bulk Heterojunction Organic Solar Cells with a Record 19.02 % Efficiency
Authors: Meng Huifeng , Jing Wenwen , Xu Xiaopeng , Yu Liyang , Peng Qiang
Published: March 2023

A facile strategy was developed here to improve the film quality of nickel‐based hole transporting layer (HTL) for efficient organic solar cell (OSC) applications. To prevent the agglomeration of Ni(NO3)2 during film deposition, acetylacetonate was added into the precursor solution, which led to the formation of an amorphous and glass‐like state. After thermal annealing (TA) treatment, the film‐forming ability could be further improved. The additional UV‐ozone (UVO) treatment continuously improved the film quality and increased the work function and conductivity of such HTL. The resulting TA & UVO modified Ni(NO3)2 & Hacac HTL produced highly efficient organic solar cells with exciting power conversion efficiencies of 18.42 % and 19.02 % for PM6 : BTP‐eC9 and D18 : BTP‐Th devices, respectively, much higher than the control PEDOT : PSS devices.
Ligand‐Controlled Stereoselective Synthesis of 2‐Deoxy‐β‐C‐glycosides by Cobalt Catalysis
Authors: Liu Bingxue , Liu Deguang , Rong Xianle , Lu Xi , Fu Yao , Liu Qiang
Published: March 2023

2‐Deoxy‐β‐C‐glycosides represent an important class of carbohydrates that are present in many bioactive molecules. However, owing to the lack of substituents at the C2 position, the stereoselective synthesis of 2‐deoxy‐β‐C‐glycosides is highly challenging. Herein, we report a ligand‐controlled stereoselective C‐alkyl glycosylation reaction to access 2‐deoxy‐β‐C‐alkyl glycosides from readily available glycals and alkyl halides. This method exhibits broad substrate scope and excellent diastereoselectivity under very mild conditions. In addition, unprecedented stereodivergent synthesis of 2‐deoxy‐C‐ribofuranosides is achieved using different chiral bisoxazoline ligands. Mechanistic studies suggest that hydrometallation of the glycal with the bisoxazoline‐ligated Co−H species may be the turnover‐limiting and stereodetermining step of this transformation.
Mobile Molecules: Reactivity Profiling Guides Faster Movement on a Cysteine Track
Authors: Bo Zonghua , Lim Zhong Hui , Duarte Fernanda , Bayley Hagan , Qing Yujia
Published: March 2023

We previously reported a molecular hopper, which makes sub‐nanometer steps by thiol‐disulfide interchange along a track with cysteine footholds within a protein nanopore. Here we optimize the hopping rate (ca. 0.1 s−1 in the previous work) with a view towards rapid enzymeless biopolymer characterization during translocation within nanopores. We first took a single‐molecule approach to obtain the reactivity profiles of individual footholds. The pKa values of cysteine thiols within a pore ranged from 9.17 to 9.85, and the pH‐independent rate constants of the thiolates with a small‐molecule disulfide varied by up to 20‐fold. Through site‐specific mutagenesis and a pH increase from 8.5 to 9.5, the overall hopping rate of a DNA cargo along a five‐cysteine track was accelerated 4‐fold, and the rate‐limiting step 21‐fold.
Asymmetric C1 Extension of Aldehydes through Biocatalytic Cascades for Stereodivergent Synthesis of Mandelic Acids
Authors: Liu Yanqiong , Fu Zunyun , Dong Haihong , Zhang Jingxuan , Mao Yingle , Zheng Mingyue , Liao Cangsong
Published: March 2023

The development of mild, efficient, and enantioselective methods for preparing chiral building blocks from simple, renewable carbon units has been a long‐term goal of the sustainable chemical industry. Mandelate derivatives are valuable pharmaceutical intermediates and chiral resolving agents, but their manufacture relies heavily on highly toxic cyanide. Herein, we report (S)‐4‐hydroxymandelate synthase (HmaS)‐centered biocatalytic cascades for the synthesis of mandelates from benzaldehydes and glycine. We show that HmaS can be engineered to perform R‐selective hydroxylation by single‐point mutation, empowering the stereodivergent synthesis of both (S)‐ and (R)‐mandelate derivatives. These biocatalytic cascades enabled the production of various mandelate derivatives with high atom economy as well as excellent yields (up to 98 %) and ee values (up to >99 %). This methodology offers an effective cyanide‐free technology for greener and sustainable production of mandelate derivatives.
Synthesis and Photophysical Properties of Monometallic C^C* Platinum(II) Formamidinate Complexes using Sterically Demanding Ligands
Authors: Wurl Felix , Stipurin Sergej , Kollar Joshua Immanuel , Strassner Thomas
Published: March 2023

A novel class of cyclometalated platinum(II) complexes—previously considered to be inaccessible—was synthesized by an improved synthetic route utilizing ligands predicted by density functional theory calculations. Based on a concise quantum chemical screening three model ligands with varying steric demand were chosen and a series of six photoluminescent C^C* cyclometalated platinum(II) formamidinate complexes was obtained. The least sterically demanding ligand led to a bimetallic complex in two isomeric forms, which could be separated and confirmed by the corresponding solid‐state structures. Sterically more hindered amidinate ligands gave the monometallic complexes supporting the theoretical predictions. The monometallic complexes show a significant hypsochromic shift of the emission wavelength, explained by the loss of the metal‐metal interactions. Depending on the cyclometalating ligand quantum yields up to 87 % with short decay times were found for this new class of phosphorescent green‐blue to pure blue platinum(II) emitters.
The upper extremity regional anaesthesia trifecta: three upper extremity nerve blocks for awake upper‐limb surgery in a patient with a history of contralateral pneumonectomy*
Authors: Le D. T. , McNulty L. , Krakowski J. C.
Published: March 2023

While regional anaesthesia plays a pivotal role in the perioperative management of patients undergoing upper extremity surgery, its utility can be limited by the risk of hemi‐diaphragmatic paresis. Furthermore, each approach to blocking the brachial plexus has associated limitations that may result in incomplete upper extremity anaesthesia. We describe the combination of three upper extremity nerve blocks to achieve surgical anaesthesia of the whole arm for a patient who had previously undergone a contralateral pneumonectomy. On this occasion, she required upper arm lipectomy and arteriovenous fistula formation. Adequate blockade was achieved with no significant perioperative complications. This case demonstrates the potential of this approach for patients with respiratory compromise undergoing upper limb procedures.
Underlying mechanisms that ensure actomyosin‐mediated directional remodeling of cell–cell contacts for multicellular movement
Authors: Uechi Hiroyuki , Kuranaga Erina
Published: March 2023

Actomyosin (actin‐myosin II complex)‐mediated contractile forces are central to the generation of multifaceted uni‐ and multi‐cellular material properties and dynamics such as cell division, migration, and tissue morphogenesis. In the present article, we summarize our recent researches addressing molecular mechanisms that ensure actomyosin‐mediated directional cell–cell junction remodeling, either shortening or extension, driving cell rearrangement for epithelial morphogenesis. Genetic perturbation clarified two points concerning cell–cell junction remodeling: an inhibitory mechanism against negative feedback in which actomyosin contractile forces, which are well known to induce cell–cell junction shortening, can concomitantly alter actin dynamics, oppositely leading to perturbation of the shortening; and tricellular junctions as a point that organizes extension of new cell–cell junctions after shortening. These findings highlight the notion that cells develop underpinning mechanisms to transform the multi‐tasking property of actomyosin contractile forces into specific and proper cellular dynamics in space and time.
Bioinspired multicolour carbon dots: comprehensive cytotoxicity, phytotoxicity, and bioimaging in animal cells and plants
Authors: Assariha Sara , Alvandi Nikta , Rouhani Shohre , Esfandiari Neda
Published: March 2023

During the past decades, carbon dots (CDs) as a kind of nanoparticles with interesting fluorescence properties have retained their place as one of the best bioimaging agents, although their effects on plants have been rarely studied. In this study, we synthesized two kinds of concentration‐dependent multicolour CDs using two solvent approaches, phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) and ethanol 20%. We confirmed the nature of the CDs through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, X‐ray powder diffraction, and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy. Afterwards, the cytotoxicity, phytotoxicity, and bioimaging of animal cells and plants using both synthesized CDs were examined. Eventually, PBS‐based CDs were recommended during this study as an efficient bioimaging agent for animal cells and plants because of the appealing features of this CD, such as a small size range of less than 10 nm, surface charge with an average of −24 mV, a high quantum yield of 35.82%, the higher fluorescence intensity of ~400 a.u. for blue fluorescence light and 250 a.u. for green fluorescence light. Other features showing the superiority of PBS‐based CDs include high photostability, low phytotoxicity (p ≤ 0.05 and p ≤ 0.01) and above all, there was no significant cytotoxicity at the concentration range of 500–7.81 μg/ml.
Zinc silicate phosphor: Insights of X‐ray induced and temperature enabled luminescence
Authors: Diana P. , Saravanakumar Subramanian , Sivaganesh D. , Sivakumar V. , Li Yang , Sebastian S. , Kim Ji‐Man , Karthick Kannan Padmanathan , Sangeetha L. , Praneeth Vijayendran K. K.
Published: March 2023

The present investigation deals with the effect of calcination temperature on the structural and thermoluminescent (TL) properties of Zn2SiO4 materials. For this study, Zn2SiO4 was prepared via a simple hydrothermal route and calcinated at temperatures from 700°C to 1100°C in an air atmosphere. TL data of all Zn2SiO4 samples showed two peaks at around 240°C and 330°C due to the formation of the luminescence centre during X‐ray irradiation. More interestingly, the Zn2SiO4 sample calcinated at 900°C exhibited a shift in the TL peak (282°C and 354°C) with an optimal TL intensity attributed to its good crystallinity with a well‐defined hexagonal plate‐like morphology. X‐ray‐irradiated Zn2SiO4 samples calcinated at 900°C exhibited a high‐temperature TL glow curve peak, suggesting that the present material could be used for high‐temperature dosimetry applications.
The investigation on the hypercoagulability of hepatocellular carcinoma‐related cerebral infarction with thromboelastography
Authors: Cen Gengyu , Song Yiting , Chen Shijian , Liu Liuyu , Wang Jun , Zhang Jian , Li Jing , Li Guohui , Li Haihua , Liang Hongbin , Liang Zhijian
Published: March 2023

Aim

To investigate the hypercoagulability of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)‐related cerebral infarction (HCRCI) with thromboelastography (TEG).

Methods

A multicenter prospective study was conducted in HCRCI patients, HCC patients without cerebral infarction, and acute cerebral infarction (ACI) patients without HCC between January 2016 and December 2019. TEG parameters and laboratory and clinical data were collected and compared among the three groups. To confirm the independent risk factors of HCRCI, multivariate analyses were conducted. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to evaluate the area under the curve (AUC) plotted by each independent risk factor.

Results

There were 38 patients recruited in the HCRCI group, and 152 patients were recruited to the HCC group and the ACI group. The levels of plasma neutrophil count, D‐dimer, α‐fetoprotein (AFP), carcinoembryonic antigen, and maximum amplitude (MA)—a parameter of TEG—were significantly higher in the HCRCI group than HCC and ACI groups. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that increased neutrophile count, D‐dimer, AFP, and MA were independently associated with HCRCI. ROC curve analysis showed first that AUC of MA for HCRCI was .875, which was larger than the other risk factors, and second that the optimal cutoff value for MA was 61.35, with a sensitivity of 89.50% and specificity of 66.40%.

Conclusion

It was suggested that TEG disclosed that the pathogenesis of HCRIC is exactly related to the hypercoagulability. And with a cutoff value of MA equaling to 61.35, TEG facilitates clinicians to identify HCC patients at high risk of HCRIC.
Screening and Inhibition Mechanism of Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors in Ethanolic Extracts of Chimonanthus salicifolius Hu Leaves
Authors: Meng Wenya , Lin Suyun , Ouyang Kehui , Chen Lingli , Zhang Ying , Wang Wenjun
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the inhibition of the ethanol elutions of Chimonanthus salicifolius Hu leaves (CsHL) against xanthine oxidase (XO). The results of XO inhibition assay and enzymatic superoxide free radical scavenging assay in vitro showed that 70 % ethanol eluate (EE) had the best inhibitory effect and followed by 40 % EE. High performance liquid chromatograph analysis showed that quercetin and kaempferol were the potential active components of XO inhibition. The inhibition mechanism of quercetin and kaempferol on XO was investigated by kinetic analysis and fluorescence quenching titration assay. The molecular simulation further revealed that quercetin and kaempferol bind to XO mainly by hydrogen bonding and van der Waals, blocking the entry of substrates and leading to the inhibition of XO. In conclusion, the CsHL have inhibitory effects on XO activity, which provides a theoretical basis for relieving or preventing hyperuricemia and gout as a natural food or medicinal plant in the future.
Chemical Profile and Cytotoxicity Evaluation of Aerial Parts of Marrubium vulgare L. From Different Locations in Turkey
Authors: Demiroz Akbulut Tugce , Aydin Kose Fadime , Demirci Betul , Baykan Sura
Published: March 2023

Marrubium vulgare L. (Lamiaceae) is used for respiratory and gastrointestinal system disorders in folk medicine. According to European Pharmacopoeia criteria, standardization of the plant is defined by its marrubiin content. In present study, phenolics, marrubiin and essential oil compositions of M. vulgare from different locations in Turkey were analyzed quantitatively by UPLC, GC and GC/MS. Besides, their cytotoxic potentials were evaluated.

In the samples, forsythoside B (77–400 mg/100 g dw), arenarioside (forsythoside F) (0–241 mg/100 g dw), verbascoside (acteoside) (171–416 mg/100 g dw) and apigenin‐7‐O‐glucoside (0–17 mg/100 g dw) were determined in different ranges. Marrubiin contents (0.58–1.46 %) of some samples were two times higher than European Pharmacopoeia standards (0.7 %). β‐Caryophyllene (7.24–20.34 %), (Z)‐β‐farnesene (1.58–34.85 %), germacrene D (9.8–13.37 %), bicyclogermacrene (1.71–8.63 %) and β‐bisabolene (0–16.68 %) were detected as major compounds in essential oils. The sample from the west of Aegean Region showed cytotoxicity against human neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y) cell lines (IC50: 59.80 μg/mL) although it has no effect on non‐cancerous NIH‐3T3cell lines.

This is the first report on phenolic profiles of M. vulgare populations from Turkey. Their potential as marrubiin source for pharmaceutical industry should be considered.
Practical evaluation of prelithiation strategies for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Chen Shiming , Wang Zhen , Zhang Meng , Shi Xiaoze , Wang Lu , An Weifeng , Li Zikun , Pan Feng , Yang Luyi
Published: March 2023

With the increasing market demand for high‐performance lithium‐ion batteries with high‐capacity electrode materials, reducing the irreversible capacity loss in the initial cycle and compensating for the active lithium loss during the cycling process are critical challenges. In recent years, various prelithiation strategies have been developed to overcome these issues. Since these approaches are carried out under a wide range of conditions, it is essential to evaluate their suitability for large‐scale commercial applications. In this review, these strategies are categorized based on different battery assembling stages that they are implemented in, including active material synthesis, the slurry mixing process, electrode pretreatment, and battery fabrication. Furthermore, their advantages and disadvantages in commercial production are discussed from the perspective of thermodynamics and kinetics. This review aims to provide guidance for the future development of prelithiation strategies toward commercialization, which will potentially promote the practical application of next‐generation high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries.
A Multiresponsive Calix[6]arene Pseudorotaxane Empowered by Fluorophoric Dansyl Groups
Authors: Andreoni Leonardo , Beneventi Giovanni Mariano , Giovanardi Gabriele , Cera Gianpiero , Credi Alberto , Arduini Arturo , Secchi Andrea , Silvi Serena
Published: March 2023

We report the synthesis and characterization, by means of NMR and UV‐visible spectroscopy and electrochemical techniques, of a dansyl calix[6]arene derivative and of its pseudorotaxane complex with a bipyridinium‐based axle. This novel macrocycle shows remarkable complexation ability, in analogy with parent compounds, while the dansyl moieties impart valuable features to the system. Indeed, these units: i) signal the state of the system by fluorescence; ii) can be reversibly protonated, enabling the modulation of the complexation abilities of the macrocycle; iii) participate in photoinduced electron transfer processes, which may be exploited to tune the stability of the supramolecular complex. Therefore, in this multiresponsive pseudorotaxane, the threading and de‐threading motions of the molecular components can be modulated either by protonation of the calixarene host or by reduction of the bipyridinium guest, which can be accomplished both by electrochemical reduction and via photoinduced electron transfer. Overall, three orthogonal and reversible stimuli can be used to induce molecular movements of the pseudorotaxane components.
CD109‐regulated mechanical properties of endothelial cells
Authors: Starodubtseva Maria N. , Liu Ju , Nadyrov Eldar A. , Shkliarava Nastassia M. , Sadouskaya Alena U. , Starodubtsev Ivan E. , Achinovich Sergey L. , Meng Xianli , Zinovkin Dmitry A. , Pranjol Md Zahidul Islam
Published: March 2023

CD109 antigen on the endothelial cell surface plays an important role in vascular pathology. The aim of the work was to investigate the effect of the immobilization of CD109 antigen with specific antibodies on nanomechanical properties of human umbilical endothelial cells (HUVECs) using atomic force microscopy in quantitative nanomechanical property mapping mode (PeakForce QNM). Anti‐CD109 antibodies induced significant stiffening of the cell surface Me(LQ; UQ): in 1.45(1.07;2.29) times with respect to control cells for fixed cells and in 4.9(3.6;5.9) times with respect to control cells for living cells, and changes in the spatial distribution of cell surface mechanical properties. The changes in the HUVEC's mechanical properties were accompanied by the activation of the TGF‐/Smad2/3 signaling pathway and reorganization of the vimentin and actin cytoskeletal elements. Our findings show that blocking CD109 antigen using anti‐CD109 antibodies leads in HUVECs to the processes similar to that occur after cell TGF‐β‐signaling activation. Therefore, we suggest that CD109 antigen may be involved in regulating the mechanical behavior of endothelial cells.
δ13C values of urinary 19‐norandrosterone in antidoping samples and potential for adverse findings from boar offal consumption
Authors: Nair Vinod S. , Howa John D. , Morrison Matthew S. , Beggs Lacey , Campbell Thane , Fedoruk Matthew , Ahrens Brian , Eichner Daniel
Published: March 2023

19‐Norandrosterone (19NA) is the preferred urinary target compound to identify doping with nandrolone or related 19‐norsteroids. At concentrations between 2.5 and 15 ng/mL, isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) is required to establish exogenous origin of urinary 19NA. An absolute difference of 3‰ between urinary 19NA and an endogenous reference compound (ERC) constitutes a finding for exogenous origin of 19NA. Over the last 3 years, 77 samples containing urinary 19NA between 2.5 and 15 ng/mL were analyzed at our laboratory. The measured δ13C values for 19NA ranged from −29.5‰ to −16.8‰. In comparison, the δ13C values for the corresponding urinary ERCs ranged from −22.4‰ to −16.2‰. Due to the considerable overlap in values between the target compound and the natural range of urinary ERCs, it can be challenging to distinguish between endogenous and exogenous origins of urinary 19NA. In addition, it is well known that consumption of offal from non‐castrated pigs can produce 19NA in urine. To determine whether this could cause a positive IRMS finding under the current IRMS positivity criteria, meat from non‐castrated boars fed a mixture of corn and soy was consumed by 13 volunteers. Two volunteers produced 19NA findings above 2.5 ng/mL, and the measured isotope values, while inconsistent with documented 19‐norsteroid preparations, did meet IRMS positivity criteria. However, these increases in 19NA urinary concentrations were short‐lived due to rapid elimination. Timely follow‐up collections may help support a claim for dietary exposure when low urinary concentrations of 19NA with pseudo‐endogenous isotope values are observed.
The origin of cultivated mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L. var. mangostana): Critical assessments and an evolutionary‐ecological perspective
Authors: Yao T. L. , Nazre M. , McKey D. , Jalonen R. , Duminil J.
Published: March 2023

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana var. mangostana) is a popular tropical fruit, yet many aspects of its biology and evolutionary history are little known. Its origin remains contentious, although recent findings suggest G. mangostana L. var. malaccensis (Hook. f.) Nazre (synonym: G. malaccensis Hook. f.) as the sole progenitor. We review hypotheses on the origin of mangosteen and clarify points that have been affected by errors of fact and interpretation. The narrow focus and lack of detail in published results make their interpretation difficult. When possible, we support our interpretations with field observations and examination of herbarium specimens. We outline the main biological traits (e.g., dioecy, facultative apomixis, and polyploidy) of mangosteen and its wild relatives to infer traits that might have evolved during domestication of mangosteen. We find no clear indication that apomixis and polyploidy evolved during domestication. Polyploidy is known in the wild relatives, but apomixis has not yet been demonstrated. Also, we propose a testable new evolutionary‐ecological framework that we call “Forest‐Dusun Interface” to infer processes in the origin of mangosteen. Dusun (Malay) refers to subsistence orchards in this context. Lastly, we propose future studies to address identified knowledge gaps.
Synthesis of Phosphate Esters by Using Diphenyl Ditelluride as Organocatalyst
Authors: Goulart Helen A. , Araujo Daniela R. , Iarocz Lucas E. B. , Pizzi Bruna R. , Barcellos Thiago , Silva Márcio S. , Perin Gelson
Published: March 2023

We report a protocol for the synthesis of new dialkyl(1‐(organolthio)naphthalen‐2‐yl)phosphates and derivatives via a dehydrogenative phosphorylation reaction between functionalized naphthols and H‐phosphonates. Diphenyl ditelluride was employed as an organocatalyst and sonochemistry as an alternative energy source. The reaction conditions were defined through a factorial design approach, and the best condition provided the synthesis of dialkyl(1‐(organolthio)naphthalen‐2‐yl)phosphates in yields that varied from 51–98 % under ultrasound irradiation after 2 h of sonication. The synthetic protocol was also effective for phenol and thiophenol starting materials. All products were characterized by state‐of‐the‐art spectroscopic and spectrometric techniques.
Polystyrene‐Supported Aminocatalyst Derived from Diarylprolinol for Asymmetric α‐Amination of Aldehydes
Authors: Kumar Rohtash , Singh Suraj , Mehta Ronak , Appayee Chandrakumar
Published: March 2023

A new class of polystyrene‐supported aminocatalysts with a triazole linker from diphenyl prolinol were developed. Their catalytic activity was tested in the asymmetric α‐amination of aldehydes. The substrate scope of this catalysis was studied under the optimized reaction conditions. The reusability of the polystyrene‐supported aminocatalyst was demonstrated up to four cycles. Based on the reaction results, a reaction mechanism was proposed for the asymmetric α‐amination of aldehydes.
Subjective cognition is linked to everyday functioning in epilepsy
Authors: Hohmann Louisa , Berger Justus , Kastell Shirley‐Uloma , Holtkamp Martin
Published: March 2023

Objective

Many people with epilepsy (PWE) suffer from reduced everyday functioning such as unemployment, relationship difficulties, or lifestyle limitations. To identify whether subjective cognitive impairment (SCI) is a potential source of these impairments, associations with restrictions of daily life (RDL) and reduced daily activities (DA) were examined.

Methods

In a prospective cross‐sectional sample of 316 adult in‐patients with epilepsy, multiple regression analyses were calculated predicting RDL and DA. The relationships between these two measures and SCI were controlled for age, sex, seizure frequency, presence of structural lesions, epilepsy duration, mono‐ vs polytherapy and adverse events of antiseizure medication (ASM), level of depressive and anxiety symptoms, education, and employment. We also checked for an interaction between depressive symptoms and SCI, to evaluate whether patients with more depressive symptoms are more vulnerable for unfavorable associations between SCI and RDL or DA, respectively. General dominance indices (GDIs) were calculated to compare predictors.

Results

Substantial SCI was present in 46% of our sample. SCI was independently associated with RDL and DA. Comparison of relative predictor importance revealed that SCI accounted for 23% of the total variance of RDL (GDISCI = 0.12,  = 50%) and 24% of the total variance of DA (GDISCI = 0.08,  = 32%). SCI was among the two most important predictors in both models. PWE with more depressive symptoms had stronger associations between SCI and RDL or DA, respectively.

Significance

Subjective cognitive impairment represents a frequent concern in PWE and may have detrimental consequences for their everyday life. PWE with depressive symptoms may be at greater risk of unfavorable relationships between SCI and everyday functioning. Exchange and collaboration between professionals offering psychotherapeutic, neuropsychological, and psychosocial interventions are crucial to address the patients' individual needs.
Management of re‐established artificial grasslands via grazing or fencing: Effects on plant and soil properties
Authors: Cao Jing , Chen Yiping , Jiang Yao , Chen Jingshu , Wu Junhua
Published: March 2023

Background

Revegetation is widely used in degraded grassland restoration. However, the responses of grassland plant and soil properties to fencing (FC) and grazing (GZ) remain poorly understood, especially the vegetation–soil coupling coordination (Cd) mechanism. This study explored single and interactive responses of vegetation and soil properties under FC and GZ after revegetation.

Methods

A field experiment with FC and GZ treatments was conducted in Loess Plateau reconstructed grassland, with degraded grassland as the control (CK). Plant and soil properties andCdwere analyzed using the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and principal component analysis (PCA).

Results

The order of soil comprehensive evaluation (SCE) was GZ > FC > CK, while that of vegetation comprehensive evaluation (VCE) was FC > GZ > CK. TheCdof CK was 0.39 (mild imbalance), while the values of FC and GZ were 0.57 and 0.54, respectively (little coordination). The VCE/SCE of FC was 1.48 (soil lag type), and the values of GZ and CK were 0.69 and 0.35, respectively (vegetation lag and vegetation loss type, respectively).

Conclusions

Both GZ and FC improvedCdand facilitated recovery. However, degraded grasslands should be restored via moderate grazing for sustainable ecological and economic development.
Social value orientation modulates behavioral and neural responses to social influence
Authors: Qi Yanyan , Liu Zhihui , Cao Siqi , Han Yixin , Wang Qiong , Liu Xun , Wu Haiyan
Published: March 2023

Substantial studies have investigated the social influence effect; however, how individuals with different social value orientations (SVOs), prosocials and proselfs, respond to different social influences remains unknown. This study examines the impact of positive and negative social information on the responses of people with different SVOs. A face‐attractiveness assessment task was employed to investigate the relationships between influence probability, memory, and event‐related potentials of social influence. A significant interactional effect suggested that prosocials and proselfs reacted differently to positive (group rating was more attractive) and negative (group rating was less attractive) social influences. Specifically, proselfs demonstrated significantly higher influence probability, marginally better recall performance, smaller N400, and larger late positive potential on receiving negative influence information than on receiving positive influence information, while prosocials showed no significant differences. Overall, correlations between N400/LPP, influence probability, and recall performance were significant. The above results indicate the modulating role of SVO when responding to social influence. These findings have important implications for understanding how people conform and how prosocial behavior occurs.
Uric acid is independently associated with interleukin‐1β levels in tear fluid of hyperuricemia and gout patients
Authors: Wu Mian , Hu Xingna , Lu Ting , Liu Chenxiao , Lu Honghong
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To explore pro‐inflammatory cytokines status in the tear fluid of patients with hyperuricemia and gout and its association with uric acid level.

Methods

A total of 58 control subjects, 58 hyperuricemia patients including 40 asymptomatic hyperuricemia and 18 gout participants were recruited in this study. For tear analysis, each patient's tears were collected using capillary action microcaps after stimulation. Tear uric acid levels were measured using chemiluminescence. Tear and serum interleukin‐1beta (IL‐1β) and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) levels were measured using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. The correlation of serum and tear uric acid levels with IL‐1β and TNF‐α were determined.

Results

Tear uric acid levels were significantly higher in hyperuricemia group (98.2 ± 51.5 vs. 42.7 ± 24.0 µmol/L, p < .001) than in controls group. IL‐1β concentrations were significantly higher in hyperuricemia eyes compared to control eyes (210.2 ± 113.9 vs. 142.6 ± 29.8 pg/mL, p < .001). Multiple linear regression analysis showed that tear uric acid levels were independently positively associated with tear IL‐1β concentrations (B = 0.192, p < .001). However, no significant correlations were found between serum or tear uric acid and TNF‐α level. Moreover, there were no statistically differences of tear IL‐1β and TNF‐α levels between the asymptomatic hyperuricemia and gout groups.

Conclusions

Tear uric acid levels were higher in patients with hyperuricemia and gout than in controls. There was a significant positive correlation between tear uric acid value and tear IL‐1β level, implying an interaction between hyperuricemia and ocular inflammation responses.
SIRT6 attenuates LPS‐induced inflammation and apoptosis of lung epithelial cells in acute lung injury through ACE2/STAT3/PIM1 signaling
Authors: Yang Juan , Chen Xing
Published: March 2023

Background

Acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe and fatal respiratory disease. SIRT6 exerts pivotal activities in the process of lung diseases, but whether SIRT6 impacts ALI has not been covered.

Methods

Lentivirus recombinant expressing vector SIRT6 gene (Lent‐SIRT6) was constructed in mice, and there were control, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), LPS + Vehicle, and LPS + Lent SIRT6 groups. RT‐qPCR and western blot detected SIRT6 expression in lung tissues. HE staining observed pathological alternations in lung tissues. Wet‐to‐dry ratio of the lungs was then measured. The cell count of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was evaluated. Serum inflammation was examined with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL), and western blot were to measure apoptosis. Western blot tested the expression of ACE2/STAT3/PIM1 signaling‐associated factors. At the cellular level, LPS was used to induce lung epithelial cells BEAS‐2B to establish cell injury models. SIRT6 was overexpressed and ACE2 expression was inhibited by cell transfection, and the mechanism of SIRT6 in LPS‐induced lung injury model was further explored by Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), western blot, quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction, TUNEL, and other techniques.

Results

The results of animal experiments showed that SIRT6 overexpression could reduce LPS‐induced lung pathological injury, pulmonary edema, and BALF cell ratio and attenuate LPS‐induced inflammatory response and cell apoptosis. In the above process, ACE2, STAT3, p‐STAT3, and PIM1 expression were affected. In cell experiments, SIRT6 expression was reduced in LPS‐induced BEAS‐2B cells. Inhibition of ACE2 expression could reverse the inhibitory effect of SIRT6 overexpression on ACE2/STAT3/PIM1 pathway, and cellular inflammatory response and apoptosis.

Conclusion

SIRT6 eased LPS‐evoked inflammation and apoptosis of lung epithelial cells in ALI through ACE2/STAT3/PIM1 signaling.
Impact of overweight and obesity on US renal cell carcinoma incidence trends (1995‐2018)
Authors: Luo Qianlai , Hofmann Jonathan N. , Pfeiffer Ruth M. , Kitahara Cari M. , Song Minkyo , Shiels Meredith S.
Published: March 2023

In the United States, renal cell carcinoma (RCC) incidence and the prevalence of obesity, an established risk factor for RCC, have been increasing for several decades. RCC is more common among older individuals. We sought to quantify the contribution of excess adiposity to the rising incidence of RCC among individuals 60 years or older. National Institutes of Health‐American Association of Retired Persons Diet and Health Study data (n = 453 859 participants, enrolled in 1995‐1996, age at enrollment 50‐71 years) were used to estimate multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) for RCC across body mass index categories and HRs associated with smoking. Population attributable fractions (PAFs) were calculated using estimated HRs and annual overweight/obesity prevalence from the National Health Interview Survey (1985‐2008). PAF estimates were combined with RCC incidence from Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results‐13 to calculate annual percent changes in RCC incidence attributable (and unrelated) to overweight/obesity. We found that between 1995 and 2018, among individuals aged 60 years and older, PAF for overweight/obesity increased from 18% to 29% for all RCCs. In comparison, the PAF for smoking declined from 12% to 9%. RCC incidence increased 1.8% per year (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.5%‐2.1%) overall, while RCC incidence attributable to overweight/obesity increased 3.8% per year (95%CI 3.5%‐4.2%) and RCC incidence unrelated to overweight/obesity increased 1.2% per year (95% CI 0.9%‐1.4%). In conclusion, overweight/obesity appears to have contributed importantly to the rising incidence of RCC in the United States since the mid‐1990s. Public health interventions focused on reducing overweight and obesity could help substantially in curbing this trend.