bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteomics of tumor and serum samples from isocitrate dehydrogenase‐wildtype glioblastoma patients: is the detoxification of reactive oxygen species associated with shorter survival?
Authors: Clavreul Anne , Guette Catherine , Lasla Hamza , Rousseau Audrey , Blanchet Odile , Henry Cécile , Boissard Alice , Cherel Mathilde , Jézéquel Pascal , Guillonneau François , Menei Philippe , Lemée Jean‐Michel
Published: May 2024

Proteomics has been little used for the identification of novel prognostic and/or therapeutic markers in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)‐wildtype glioblastoma (GB). In this study, we analyzed 50 tumor and 30 serum samples from short‐ and long‐term survivors of IDH‐wildtype GB (STS and LTS, respectively) by data‐independent acquisition mass spectrometry (DIA‐MS)‐based proteomics, with the aim of identifying such markers. DIA‐MS identified 5422 and 826 normalized proteins in tumor and serum samples, respectively, with only three tumor proteins and 26 serum proteins displaying significant differential expression between the STS and LTS groups. These dysregulated proteins were principally associated with the detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In particular, GB patients in the STS group had high serum levels of malate dehydrogenase 1 (MDH1) and ribonuclease inhibitor 1 (RNH1) and low tumor levels of fatty acid‐binding protein 7 (FABP7), which may have enabled them to maintain low ROS levels, counteracting the effects of the first‐line treatment with radiotherapy plus concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide. A blood score built on the levels of MDH1 and RNH1 expression was found to be an independent prognostic factor for survival based on the serum proteome data for a cohort of 96 IDH‐wildtype GB patients. This study highlights the utility of circulating MDH1 and RNH1 biomarkers for determining the prognosis of patients with IDH‐wildtype GB. Furthermore, the pathways driven by these biomarkers, and the tumor FABP7 pathway, may constitute promising therapeutic targets for blocking ROS detoxification to overcome resistance to chemoradiotherapy in potential GB STS.
Grain Boundary Sliding During High Pressure Torsion of Nanocrystalline Au‐13Pd Alloy
Authors: Skrotzki Werner , Pukenas Aurimas , Jóni Bertalan , Ungár Tamas , Toth Laszlo S. , Ivanisenko Yulia
Published: May 2024

The microstructure and texture are investigated for nanocrystalline Au‐13at%Pd deformed by high‐pressure torsion. The grain size of this alloy is observed to remain below about 20 nm when subjected to severe plastic deformation. Surprisingly, the initial <110> powder compaction texture does not change significantly during shearing. The results are explained in terms of a grain boundary sliding mechanism involving planar interfaces formed by grain boundary migration.
High‐Precision Dilatometry for the Study of Precipitation Processes and Microalloying Effects in Lightweight Alloys ‐ A Specific Review
Authors: Sprengel Wolfgang , Würschum Roland
Published: May 2024

By dilatometry, the absolute change in the length of a sample is measured. As length, i.e., volume, is a state variable, its change can be monitored for long time ranges. This is the decisive advantage compared to the widely applied calorimetric methods which are based on a rate (change of heat) and where the maximum time range is determined by the resolution limit of the heat flow measurement. In contrast, if the measurement environment is kept at a constant temperature, dilatometric signals can be measured for very long time ranges down to very small changes with resolution in the nm range. The application of high‐stability isothermal dilatometry for studying precipitation phenomena in Al(Mg,Si)‐, Ti(V)‐, and Ti(Cr)‐alloys is summarized in the present review. Al(Mg,Si) turns out as a prime example where the various phases can unambiguously be distinguished by their characteristic length change features. For Ti(V), the influence of the oxygen impurity on the omega phase formation, and for Ti(Cr), the effect of Sn alloying on the omega phase formation can be revealed by dilatometry. The results on Al(Mg, Si) are compared with dilatometry on Al(Cu)‐alloys upon time‐linear heating, for which also the effect of microalloying with Au is studied.
Adhesive Zwitterionic Poly(ionic liquid) with Unprecedented Organic Solvent Resistance
Authors: Zhang Jun , Li Hui , Zhou Xuan , Hu Qinyu , Chen Jiayin , Tang Liang , Yang Xiaoqing , Gao Jie , Liu Bei , Zhang Yan , Zhao Gai , Dong Shengyi , Zhang Shiguo
Published: May 2024

The resistance of adhesives to organic solvents is of paramount importance in diverse industries. Unfortunately, many currently available adhesives exhibit either weak intermolecular chain interactions, resulting in insufficient resistance to organic solvents, or possess a permanent covalent crosslinked network, impeding recyclability. This study introduces an innovative approach to address this challenge by formulating zwitterionic poly(ionic liquid) (ZPIL) derivatives with robust dipole–dipole interactions, incorporating sulfonic anions and imidazolium cations. Due to its unique dynamic and electrostatic self‐crosslinking structure, the ZPIL exhibits significant adhesion to various substrates and demonstrates excellent recyclability even after multiple adhesion tests. Significantly, ZPIL exhibits exceptional adhesion stability across diverse nonpolar and polar organic solvents, including ionic liquids, distinguishing itself from nonionic polymers and conventional poly(ionic liquid)s. Its adhesive performance remains minimally affected even after prolonged exposure to soaking conditions. The study presents a promising solution for the design of highly organic solvent‐resistant materials for plastics, coatings, and adhesives.
Surfactant Self‐Assembly Enhances Tribopositivity of Stretchable Ionic Conductors for Wearable Energy Harvesting and Motion Sensing
Authors: Bo Xiangkun , Zhao Hong , Valencia Agnes , Liu Fei , Li Weilu , Daoud Walid A.
Published: May 2024

Boosting stretchability and electric output is critical for high‐performance wearable triboelectric nanogenerators (TENG). Herein, for the first time, a new approach for tuning the composition of surface functional groups through surfactant self‐assembly to improve the tribopositivity, where the assembly increases the transferred charge density and the relative permittivity of water polyurethane (WPU). Incorporating bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide (TFSI−) and alkali metal ions into a mixture of WPU and the surfactant forms a stretchable film that simultaneously functions as positive tribolayer and electrode, preventing the conventional detachment of tribolayer and electrode in long term usage. Further, the conductivity of the crosslinked film reaches 3.3 × 10−3 mS cm−1 while the elongation at break reaches 362%. Moreover, the surfactant self‐assembly impedes the adverse impact of the fluorine‐containing groups on tribopositivity. Consequently, the charge density reaches 155 µC m−2, being the highest recorded for WPU and stretchable ionic conductor based TENG. This work introduces a novel approach for boosting the output charge density while avoiding the adverse effect of ionic salts in solid conductors through a universal surfactant self‐assembly strategy, which can be extended to other materials. Further, the device is used to monitor and harvest the kinetic energy of human body motion.
Constructing Two‐Dimensional (2D) Heterostructure Channels with Engineered Biomembrane and Graphene for Precise Scandium Sieving
Authors: Liang Jing , Zhang Xin , Li Haidong , Wen Chuanxi , Tian Longlong , Chen Ximeng , Li Zhan
Published: May 2024

The special properties of rare earth elements (REE) have effectively broadened their application fields. How to accurately recognize and efficiently separate target rare earth ions with similar radii and chemical properties remains a formidable challenge. Here, precise two‐dimensional (2D) heterogeneous channels are constructed using engineered E. coli membranes between graphene oxide (GO) layers. The difference in binding ability and corresponding conformational change between Lanmodulin (LanM) and rare earth ions in the heterogeneous channel allows for precisely recognizing and sieving of scandium ions (Sc3+). The engineered E. coli membranes not only can protect the integrity of structure and functionality of LanM, the rich lipids and sugars, but also help the Escherichia coli (E. coli) membranes closely tile on the GO nanosheets through interaction, preventing swelling and controlling interlayer spacing accurately down to the sub‐nanometer. Apparently, the 2D heterogeneous channels showcase excellent selectivity for trivalent ions (SFFe/Sc≈3), especially for Sc3+ ions in REE with high selectivity (SFCe/Sc≈167, SFLa/Sc≈103). The long‐term stability and tensile strain tests verify the membrane's outstanding stability. Thus, this simple, efficient, and cost‐effective work provides a suggestion for constructing 2D interlayer heterogeneous channels for precise sieving, and this valuable strategy is proposed for the efficient extraction of Sc.
Reprogrammable, Sustainable, and 3D‐Printable Cellulose Hydroplastic
Authors: Koh J. Justin , Koh Xue Qi , Chee Jing Yee , Chakraborty Souvik , Tee Si Yin , Zhang Danwei , Lai Szu Cheng , Yeo Jayven Chee Chuan , Soh Jia Wen Jaslin , Li Peiyu , Tan Swee Ching , Thitsartarn Warintorn , He Chaobin
Published: May 2024

Modern human societies are highly dependent on plastic materials, however, the bulk of them are non‐renewable commodity plastics that cause pollution problems and consume large amounts of energy for their thermal processing activities. In this article, a sustainable cellulose hydroplastic material and its composites, that can be shaped repeatedly into various 2D/3D geometries using just water are introduced. In the wet state, their high flexibility and ductility make it conducive for the shaping to take place. In the ambient environment, the wet hydroplastic transits spontaneously into rigid materials with its intended shape in a short time of <30 min despite a thickness of hundreds of microns. They also possess humidity resistance and are structurally stable in highly humid environments. Given their excellent mechanical properties, geometry reprogrammability, bio‐based, and biodegradable nature, cellulose hydroplastic poses as a sustainable alternative to traditional plastic materials and even “green” thermoplastics. This article also demonstrates the possibility of 3D‐printing these hydroplastics and the potential of employing them in electronics applications. The demonstrated hydroshapable structural electronic components show capability in performing electronic functions, load‐bearing ability and geometry versatility, which are attractive features for lightweight, customizable and geometry‐unique electronic devices.
Using machine‐learning methods in meta‐analyses: An empirical application on consumer acceptance of meat alternatives
Authors: Sun Jiayu , Caputo Vincenzina , Taylor Hannah
Published: May 2024

Meta‐analyses are widely used in various academic fields, including applied economics. However, the high labor intensity involved in paper searching and small sample sizes remain two dominant limiting factors. We conducted a meta‐analysis of studies on consumer preferences for plant‐based and lab‐grown meat alternatives using machine‐learning techniques at both the data collection and the data analysis phases. We demonstrated that machine learning reduces the workload in the manual title‐abstract screen phase by 69% accounting for 24% of total workload in data collection. We also found that machine learning improves out‐of‐sample of sample prediction accuracy by 48–78 percentage points when compared to econometric model. Notably, we showed that integrating machine learning can also improve the predictive performance of econometric methods, thereby improving their out‐of‐sample predictions. Our empirical findings further revealed that demand for meat alternatives is higher among younger consumers, especially when the products displayed benefit information.
Infectivity of an emerging fish parasite Gyrodactylus sprostonae in juvenile carp (Cyprinus carpio)
Authors: Masud Numair , Williams Chris , James Joanna , Cable Jo
Published: May 2024

The gill monogenean ectoparasite Gyrodactylus sprostonae is an emerging pathogen within recreational UK carp fisheries, and a major cause of mortality in adult carp. This gill infection has only been noted in adult carp and not in juveniles, and no reports of its fundamental infection dynamics exist. The current study compared the infective potential of G. sprostonae between adult and juvenile common carp (Cyprinus carpio) and quantified parasite numbers on the body surface and gills of infected juveniles at two temperatures (14 and 24°C). G. sprostonae was able to infect the body surface and the gills of juvenile carp, and temperature significantly impacted the duration of infection and number of parasites. Interestingly, however, all juveniles under both temperature treatments lost their infections after a maximum of 40 days, with no observed clinical signs of parasitaemia or mortalities. This study therefore indicates that G. sprostonae does not appear to be harmful to juvenile common carp, and we discuss why this infection only seems to impact prised adult carp in the UK.
Fetal large tubular oesophageal duplication cyst: A case report
Authors: Maier Călina , Vlădăreanu Radu , Tocariu Raluca , Șerban Marcela , Olincă Maria , Brătilă Elvira
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Oesophageal duplication cyst (EDC) is a rare congenital anomaly representing, after neuronal tumours, the second most common cause of posterior mass in children, with a prevalence of approximately 1/22,500 live births. Cervical cysts are very rare, and their antenatal detection is fairly uncommon.

Methods

We report the case of an isolated large mediastinal and cervical tubular EDC diagnosed prenatally in the third trimester.

Results

After birth, the baby became symptomatic developing respiratory distress due to the enlargement of the cyst and she underwent excision of the mass. The post‐operative evolution was very good.

Conclusion

Our purpose was to raise awareness of the ultrasonographic features of this condition, thus improving the rate of prenatal diagnosis and offering the parents a proper counselling regarding the prognosis and the need for a further multidisciplinary approach after birth.
Hyperpolarizing Small Molecules using Parahydrogen and Solid‐State Spin Diffusion
Authors: Gierse Martin , Dagys Laurynas , Keim Michael , Lucas Sebastian , Josten Felix , Plenio Martin B. , Schwartz Ilai , Knecht Stephan , Eills James
Published: May 2024

Parahydrogen‐induced polarization (PHIP) is an inexpensive way to produce hyperpolarized molecules with polarization levels of >10 % in the solution‐state, but is strongly limited in generality since it requires chemical reactions/ interactions with H2. Here we report a new method to widen the scope of PHIP hyperpolarization: a source molecule is produced via PHIP with high13C polarization, and precipitated out of solution together with a target species. Spin diffusion within the solid carries the polarization onto13C spins of the target, which can then be dissolved for solution‐state applications. We name this method PHIP‐SSD (PHIP with solid‐state spin diffusion) and demonstrate it using PHIP‐polarized [1‐13C]‐fumarate as the source molecule, to polarize different13C‐labelled target molecules.13C polarizations of between 0.01 and 3 % were measured on [1‐13C]‐benzoic acid, depending on the molar ratio of fumarate:benzoate in the solid state. We also show that PHIP‐SSD does not require specific co‐crystallization conditions by grinding dry powders of target molecules together with solid fumarate crystals, and obtain13C signal enhancements of between 100 and 200 on [13C,15N2]‐urea, [1‐13C]‐pyruvate, and [1‐13C]‐benzoic acid. This approach appears to be a promising new strategy for facile hyperpolarization based on PHIP.
Pattern‐Matched Polymer Ligands Toward Near‐Perfect Synergistic Passivation for High‐Performance and Stable Br/Cl Mixed Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Lyu Benzheng , Li Dongyu , Wang Qiang , Sun Jiayun , Xiong Qi , Zhang Dezhong , Su Haibin , Choy Wallace C. H.
Published: May 2024

Mixed Br/Cl perovskite nanocrystals (PeNCs) exhibit bright pure‐blue emission benefiting for fulfilling the Rec. 2100 standard. However, phase segregation remains a significant challenge that severely affects the stability and emission spectrum of perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs). Here, we demonstrate the optimization of the spacing between polydentate functional groups of polymer ligands to match the surface pattern of CsPbBr1.8Cl1.2 PeNCs, resulting in effective synergistic passivation effect and significant improvements in PeLED performances. The block and alternating copolymers with different inter‐functional group spacing are facilely synthesized as ligands for PeNCs. Surprisingly, block copolymers with a higher functional group density do not match PeNCs, while alternating copolymers enable efficient PeNCs with the high photoluminescence intensity, low non‐radiative recombination rate and high exciton binding energy. Density functional theory calculations clearly confirm the almost perfect match between alternating copolymers and PeNCs. Finally, pure‐blue PeLEDs are achieved with the emission at 467 nm and Commission Internationale de l′Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.131, 0.071), high external quantum efficiency (9.1 %) and record spectral and operational stabilities (~80 mins) in mixed‐halide PeLEDs. Overall, this study contributes to designing the polymer ligands and promoting the development of high‐performance and stable pure‐color PeLEDs towards display applications.
Remimazolam sedation for awake tracheal intubation
Authors: Kolb B. , Lewis T. , Large J. , Wilson M. , Ode K.
Published: May 2024

We present a case of a 55‐year‐old woman presenting for an elective minor procedure. Following a previous anaesthetic, a ‘can't intubate, can't oxygenate’ incident had been documented. She had since undergone awake tracheal intubation for procedures requiring general anaesthesia. We were able to safely facilitate awake tracheal intubation using remimazolam for sedation. Remimazolam is a novel ultra‐short acting benzodiazepine with similar pharmacodynamic effects to its parent compound midazolam, having minimal cardiovascular or respiratory effects and offering excellent anxiolysis and amnesia. It has a significantly shorter duration of action than midazolam, making it a valuable sedative agent for awake tracheal intubation. The patient remained stable throughout the procedure, with minimal effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. The quality of sedation was reported as highly satisfactory by both the patient and the team.
Adsorption behavior of NH4+ and Mg2+ at kaolinite surfaces: Effect of the ion concentration, NH4+/Mg2+ mixing ratio, and layer charge
Authors: Shao Xiangsen , Peng Chenliang , Wang Guanshi , Qin Lei , Long Ping
Published: May 2024

The adsorption behavior of NH4+ and Mg2+ at kaolinite surfaces was investigated by using molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, considering the factors such as ion concentration, NH4+/Mg2+ mixing ratio, and layer charge of kaolinite. The results showed that the increase in ion concentration did not affect the adsorption modes of NH4+ and Mg2+ ions but promote the increase in the adsorption capacity. The total adsorption capacities of Mg2+ and NH4+ were 3.25 × 10−6 and 2.85 × 10−6 μmol·mm−2 at the ion concentration of 1.5 mol·L−1, respectively. When NH4+ and Mg2+ were co‐adsorbed, they could inhibit the adsorption of each other at the surface of kaolinite, except that the inner‐sphere (IS) adsorption of NH4+ at aluminum hydroxyl (Al–OH) surface could be enhanced by the presence of Mg2+. Both NH4+ and Mg2+ tended to adsorb at the siloxane (Si–O) surface of kaolinite rather than Al–OH surface. When layer charge occurred in kaolinite, a small number of Mg2+ began to adsorb in the IS complexes at 1.7 and 2.3 Å above the Al and O atoms of the lattice‐substituted tetrahedra of the Si–O surface, and at 1.7 Å above the hexahedra of the Al–OH surface. However, most of NH4+ were adsorbed in IS complexes at 1.7 Å above the center of the oxygen six‐membered ring of the Si–O surface and above the hexahedron of the Al–OH surface. The adsorption capacity of Mg2+ changed little with the increase of layer charge density, while the IS and total adsorption capacity of NH4+ increased significantly.
Chiral resolution of ketoprofen by modified polymethyl methacrylate microspheres
Authors: Zhang Runfeng , Yuan Lin , He Xiangqiong , Cong Hailin , Yu Bing , Shen Youqing
Published: May 2024

Due to unique structural characteristics and chiral environment, β‐cyclodextrin (β‐CD) has a strong chiral separation ability. 4‐Chlorophenyl isocyanate (4CPI) also plays an important role in separating chiral drugs. In this paper, a chiral stationary phase: 4‐CPI‐β‐CD stationary phase (4CPI‐β‐CD@PMMA) was designed and prepared. Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) microspheres with uniform particle size and good monodispersity were prepared by modified seed polymerization and seed expansion methods. Using diazo resin as a coupling agent, PMMA microspheres were connected with 4CPI‐β‐CD to prepare a stationary phase with chiral recognition ability. PMMA microspheres and 4CPI‐β‐CD were also characterized. Compared with the traditional silica gel column, PMMA microspheres have higher preparation efficiency, better monodispersity, and better mechanical properties as chromatographic fillers. Finally, the chiral separation of ketoprofen was carried out by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography, and the separation conditions were optimized. This paper is a good idea for the preparation of the chiral stationary phase.
Hyposalivation in patients with psoriasis: Association with severity, inflammatory, and anti‐inflammatory cytokine biomarkers of the disease
Authors: Sharma Ravi Kant , Sharma Manu Rashmi , Mahendra Aneet , Singh Simranjit , Sood Shaveta , Upadhyay Sushil Kumar , Sharma Anil Kumar
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study is to expound the effect of psoriasis on salivary glands by evaluating the secretion of saliva and salivary cytokine biomarkers in patients with psoriasis. This study was conducted by recruiting 120 subjects that included 60 patients diagnosed clinically with active psoriasis and 60 healthy controls who were age and gender matched to psoriatic subjects. Unstimulated whole saliva was collected from all the subjects by spitting method, and levels of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α), interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), and IL‐10 (IL‐10) were determined via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (BT Lab, Shanghai, China). Secretion of saliva in psoriasis patients was considerably reduced than in healthy controls. The concentrations of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, and IL‐2) were significantly increased, whereas level of anti‐inflammatory cytokine (IL‐10) was markedly decreased in the saliva of psoriasis patients with hyposalivation compared to healthy subjects. Our results demonstrated significant negative correlation of salivary flow rates with the disease severity. No significant correlations were obtained between salivary levels of tested cytokines and salivary flow rates in our study. Findings of the study reflect inflammation of salivary glands with reduced salivary flow rates in psoriasis patients. The inflammatory responses in salivary gland tissues by virtue of increased pro‐inflammatory cytokines concentrations together with lower anti‐inflammatory cytokine levels may have a role in affecting the saliva secretion in psoriasis patients. Secretion of unstimulated saliva in psoriasis patients decreases with the severity and duration of the disease.
Shining light on carbon dots: Toward enhanced antibacterial activity for biofilm disruption
Authors: Zhang Qingsong , Fu Jianxin , Lin Hong , Xuan Guanhua , Zhang Weiwei , Chen Lingxin , Wang Guoqing
Published: May 2024

In spite of tremendous efforts dedicated to addressing bacterial infections and biofilm formation, the post‐antibiotic ear continues to witness a gap between the established materials and an easily accessible yet biocompatible antibacterial reagent. Here we show carbon dots (CDs) synthesized via a single hydrothermal process can afford promising antibacterial activity that can be further enhanced by exposure to light. By using citric acid and polyethyleneimine as the precursors, the photoluminescence CDs can be produced within a one‐pot, one‐step hydrothermal reaction in only 2 h. The CDs demonstrate robust antibacterial properties against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria and, notably, a considerable enhancement of antibacterial effect can be observed upon photo‐irradiation. Mechanistic insights reveal that the CDs generate singlet oxygen (1O2) when exposed to light, leading to an augmented reactive oxygen species level. The approach for disruption of biofilms and inhibition of biofilm formation by using the CDs has also been established. Our findings present a potential solution to combat antibacterial resistance and offer a path to reduce dependence on traditional antibiotics.
Transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy: Identifying the necessary dynamic capabilities for a transition among Norwegian oil and gas companies
Authors: Hermundsdottir Fanny , Bjørgum Øyvind , Eide Ann Elida
Published: May 2024

The increasing awareness of the role of fossil fuels in global warming, fluctuating oil and gas prices, and governments' commitments to phase out fossil fuels are driving the Norwegian oil and gas industry to increasingly aim for a transition to more sustainable renewable energy. There are few studies investigating how highly emission‐intensive oil and gas firms can transition into greener industries. In this multiple‐case study, we investigate how these firms can develop green innovations and enter renewable industries by developing dynamic capabilities. We find several microfoundations of dynamic capabilities that are important for green innovation development. Expanding the search window and proactive behavior are key for identifying new opportunities, while developing market insight, cross‐sector collaboration, and structural ambidexterity are crucial to seize and reconfigure opportunities. The findings also illuminate how firm strategy in the sensing stage impacts what opportunities firms seize. The study is one of few studies that explore the microfoundations of dynamic capabilities necessary for entering new and unfamiliar markets, and it contributes to the understanding of the dynamics of the underlying microfoundations and the impact of green innovation type on these dynamics.
Increase in antibody titer and change over time associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection after mRNA vaccination: Consideration of the significance of additional vaccination
Authors: Kusunoki Hiroshi , Ohkusa Michiko , Iida Rie , Saito Ayumi , Kawahara Mikio , Ekawa Kazumi , Kato Nozomi , Motone Masaharu , Shimizu Hideo
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Most Japanese patients naturally infected with COVID‐19 were infected after mRNA vaccination, and many maintained high antibody titers due to hybrid immunity. The significance of additional vaccination in hybrid‐immunized cases is highly questionable.

Spontaneous infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) after mRNA vaccination causes a marked increase in antibody titer because of the combined effect of vaccine and infection (“hybrid immunity”). In this study, we discuss the significance of the mRNA vaccine booster inoculation that has been repeatedly performed in Japan. We describe the temporal trends of antibody titers in cases in which antibody titers were markedly increased by hybrid immunization. The antibody titer increased with hybrid immunization and tended to decrease with time. However, several cases maintained high antibody titers for approximately 1 year after coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) diagnosis, even without booster vaccination. Most Japanese patients naturally infected with COVID‐19 were infected after mRNA vaccination, and many maintained high antibody titers due to hybrid immunity. The significance of additional vaccination in hybrid‐immunized cases is highly questionable regarding cost‐effectiveness and risk–benefit.
Proton‐conducting hydrogel electrolytes with tight contact to binder‐free MXene electrodes for high‐performance thermally chargeable supercapacitor
Authors: Du Zhijian , Li La , Shen Guozhen
Published: May 2024

Thermally chargeable supercapacitors (TCSCs) have offered exceptional energy‐converting efficiency for absorbing human epidermal heat and generating and storing electrical energy, which then realize continuous power supply to electronic devices, such as sensors and wearable electronic products, in a wide range of practical significance. Here, we proposed a flexible TCSC by attaching binder‐free Ti3C2Tx MXene@PPy electrodes on both ends of the H3PO4@P(AM‐co‐AA‐co‐AYP K+) hydrogel electrolyte, which exhibits a large thermal power of 35.2 mV K−1 at 50% relative humidity and maximum figure of merit of 2.1. The high performances of the fabricated devices can be attributed to the tunable electrical, thermodynamic, thermoelectric, and mechanical properties of the hydrogel electrolyte by adjusting the acid content and the proportion of zwitterionic compound AYP K+ in the hydrogel, and the high photothermal conversion efficiency and electrochemical performance of the electrodes. Moreover, the stable and outstanding thermofvoltage output (∼200 mV) under different time scenarios of the TCSC makes it possible to drive a strain sensor, accomplishing the objectives of a human activity monitor.
Designed Mannosylerythritol Lipid Analogues Exhibiting Both Selective Cytotoxicity Against Human Skin Cancer Cells and Recovery Effects on Damaged Skin Cells
Authors: Meng Jikun , Yasui Chihiro , Shida Mai , Toshima Kazunobu , Takahashi Daisuke
Published: May 2024

Mannosylerythritol lipids (MELs) are a class of amphipathic molecules bearing a hydrophilic 4‐O‐β‐D‐mannopyranosyl‐D‐erythritol skeleton. Here, we designed and synthesized four kinds of MEL analogues R‐MEL−A ([2R,3S]‐erythritol type), S‐mannosylthreitol lipid (MTL)‐A ([2S,3S]‐threitol type), R‐MTL−A ([2R,3R]‐threitol type), and α‐S‐MEL−A ([2S,3R]‐erythritol type) using our previously reported boron‐mediated aglycon delivery (BMAD) method and a neighboring group assisted glycosylation method. The selective cytotoxicity of the target compounds against cancer cells was evaluated, with R‐MTL−A showing the highest selective cytotoxicity against human skin squamous carcinoma HSC‐5 cells. Our findings suggest that R‐MTL−A induces necrosis‐like cell death against HSC‐5 cells by decreasing cell membrane fluidity. R‐MTL−A also exhibits an efficient recovery effect on damaged skin cells, indicating that R‐MTL−A has potential as a lead compound for new cosmeceuticals with both cancer cell‐selective toxicity and recovery effects on damaged skin cells.
AIE‐ESIPT Photoluminescent Probe Based on 3‐(3‐Hydroxypyridin‐2‐yl)isoquinolin‐4‐ol for the Detection of Intracellular Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Huo Wenting , Takayama Kohei , Miki Koji , Nogita Kohei , Shao Shuai , Suzuki Ayako , Morimoto Takashi , Mu Huiying , Ohe Kouichi
Published: May 2024

Excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) molecules, which feature large Stokes shifts to avoid self‐absorption, play an essential role in photoluminescent bioimaging probes. Herein, we report the development of an ESIPT molecule 3‐(3‐hydroxypyridin‐2‐yl)isoquinolin‐4‐ol (PiQ). PiQ not only undergoes a distinct ESIPT process unlike the symmetrical 2,2′‐bipyridyl‐3,3′‐diol but also exhibits aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) characteristics. PiQ self‐assembles into aggregates with an average size of 241.0±51.9 nm in aqueous solutions, leading to significantly enhanced photoluminescence. On the basis of the ESIPT and AIE characteristics of PiQ, the latter is functionalized with a hydrogen peroxide‐responsive 4‐pinacoratoborylbenzyl group (B) and a carboxylesterase‐responsive acetyl group (A) to produce a photoluminescent probe B−PiQ−A. The potential of PiQ for applications in bioimaging and chemical sensing is underscored by its efficient detection of both endogenous and exogenous hydrogen peroxide in living cells.
O/S Exchange Reaction in Synthesizing Sulfur‐Containing Polymers
Authors: Sun Yue , Zhang Chengjian , Zhang Xinghong
Published: May 2024

Using carbon disulfide (CS2) and carbonyl sulfide (COS) as sulfur‐containing and one‐carbon feedstocks to make value‐added products is paramount for both pure and applied chemistry and environmental science. One of the practical strategies is to copolymerize these bulk chemicals with epoxides to produce sulfur‐containing polymers. This approach contributes to improving the sustainability of polymer manufacturing, provides highly desired functional polymer materials, and has attracted much attention. However, these copolymerizations invariably exhibit the intensely complicated chemistry of O/S exchange reaction, leading to sulfur‐containing polymers with diverse architectures. As the understanding of O/S exchange continues to deepen, recent efforts have guided significant advances in the synthesis of CS2‐ and COS‐based polymers. This review examines the O/S exchange chemistry and summarizes the recent progress in this field to promote the further advance of synthesizing sulfur‐containing polymers from CS2 and COS.
Inorganic‐Organic Hybrid Crystals Derived from Polyoxovanadate and Ionic‐Liquid toward Promising Conductive Materials
Authors: Kiyota Yoshiki , Ono Seiji , Sasaki Kaito , Tamai Nanako , Sugimoto Hironori , Okamura Yosuke , Koguchi Shinichi , Higuchi Masashi , Nagase Yu , Shinyashiki Naoki , Uchida Sayaka , Ito Takeru
Published: May 2024

Conductive polyoxovanadate inorganic‐organic hybrid crystals comprising alkaline earth metal (divalent) cations were successfully obtained with the use of an ionic‐liquid cation having imidazolium and methacryloyl moieties (denoted as MAImC1). Two types of crystals containing decavanadate ([V10O28]6−, V10) anion were obtained as [MAImC1]2Ca2[V10O28] ⋅ 16H2O ⋅ 2 C2H5OH (MAImC1−Ca−V10) and [MAImC1]2Mg2[V10O28] ⋅ 18H2O ⋅ 2 C2H5OH (MAImC1−Mg−V10). Connection modes of the divalent cations were different: Ca2+ cations were connected to V10 to form a {[Ca(H2O)5]2V10O28]}2− anion in MAImC1−Ca−V10, while a discrete [V10O28]6− and hydrated [Mg(H2O)6]2+ were present in MAImC1−Mg−V10. Conductivities under a fully humidified condition at 353 K (80 °C) were high values of 3.0×10−4 S cm−1 for MAImC1−Ca−V10 and 3.3×10−3 S cm−1 for MAImC1−Mg−V10, respectively. The higher conductivity under hydrated conditions suggests proton as a conductive carrier. The better conductivity of MAImC1−Mg−V10 is plausibly derived from the more effective hydrogen‐bonded network in the crystal lattice.
Predicting and Probing the Local Temperature Rise Around Plasmonic Core–Shell Nanoparticles to Study Thermally Activated Processes
Authors: Mertens Johannes C. J. , Spitzbarth Benjamin , Eelkema Rienk , Hunger Johannes , van der Veen Monique A.
Published: May 2024

Ultrafast spectroscopy can be used to study dynamic processes on femtosecond to nanosecond timescales, but is typically used for photoinduced processes. Several materials can induce ultrafast temperature rises upon absorption of femtosecond laser pulses, in principle allowing to study thermally activated processes, such as (catalytic) reactions, phase transitions, and conformational changes. Gold–silica core–shell nanoparticles are particularly interesting for this, as they can be used in a wide range of media and are chemically inert. Here we computationally model the temporal and spatial temperature profiles of gold nanoparticles with and without silica shell in liquid and gas media. Fast rises in temperature within tens of picoseconds are always observed. This is fast enough to study many of the aforementioned processes. We also validate our results experimentally using a poly(urethane‐urea) exhibiting a temperature‐dependent hydrogen bonding network, which shows local temperatures above 90 °C are reached on this timescale. Moreover, this experiment shows the hydrogen bond breaking in such polymers occurs within tens of picoseconds.
Production of Acetylene from Viable Feedstock: Promising Recent Approaches
Authors: Gyrdymova Yulia V. , Lebedev Andrei N. , Du Yan‐Jun , Rodygin Konstantin S.
Published: May 2024

The potential of acetylene is extremely high both in chemical industry and synthetic applications due to unsaturated nature and the smallest active C≡C unit. The production of many essential necessities is originated from acetylene; however, the formation of acetylene molecule requires a lot of energy. Currently, the access to acetylene is based on coal processing, methane reforming and calcium carbide hydrolysis. Recently, extensive research has been done to decrease the cost of acetylene. In this review, the routes to acetylene were highlighted, considering the energy consumption in kW ⋅ h/t of the product to evaluate the best approach. Since energy prices depend on various regions, the cost of the product is complicated. The manufacturing of acetylene is usually accompanied by formation of by‐products, which may be valuable or not. The review should help to identify current status and not overlook promising approaches.
Forest harvest causes rapid changes of maternal investment strategies in ground beetles
Authors: Egli Lauren , Work Timothy T.
Published: May 2024

Species recovery following anthropogenic disturbances will depend on adaptations in survivorship and fecundity. Life‐history theory predicts increased environmental stress will result in (1) shifts in resource allocation from fecundity to body growth/maintenance and (2) increased provisioning among offspring at the cost of reproductive output. For remnant populations that persist after forest harvesting, selection mediated through anthropogenic disturbances may affect resilience to additional stressors such as climate change. We tested how rapid changes in environmental conditions affected maternal investment strategies in two ground beetle species, Pterostichus pensylvanicus and Pterostichus coracinus, by comparing fecundity and survivorship in populations from recently clear‐cut and uncut habitats. Using parents drawn from clear‐cut or uncut stands, we reared progeny in both common garden and reciprocal transplant experiments. In P. pensylvanicus, we found that neither lineage nor rearing habitat affected the number of eggs laid per female or survivorship of offspring. However, eggs laid by females from clear‐cuts were more likely to hatch and offspring reached maturity more quickly, suggesting increased provisioning per offspring. In P. coracinus, females from clear‐cuts laid more eggs, and their eggs hatched more rapidly and had greater hatching success, suggesting increased investment in overall reproductive output and increased offspring provisioning. In the reciprocal transplant, we observed significant habitat by lineage interactions on survival in P. coracinus, with survivorship increasing when progeny were reared in novel habitats. In both species, increased maternal investment among offspring was not associated with a reduction in overall reproductive output, as anticipated. However, maternal investment among offspring declined with increasing female size, implying trade‐offs between increased metabolic demand and fecundity. Taken together, our work suggests that females from more stressful, clear‐cut habitats increased investment in fecundity, compared to females from uncut habitats, and may compensate for larval mortality. These changes were driven by smaller individuals, suggesting that increased environmental stress can influence the relationship between female size and maternal investment strategy. Additionally, reciprocal increases in offspring survivorship in habitats other than the parents suggest that adjacent areas between unharvested and clear‐cut habitat may be useful in maintaining biodiversity under future climate stressors.
Enhanced Peroxymonosulfate Activation via Bi12CoO20/rGO with Near‐Infrared Photothermal Response for Antibiotics Degradation
Authors: Xiong Wei , Wu Yizhou , Dong Liqing , Wang Yanxin , Li Nanxing , Zhou Lingchen , Lei Juying , Zhou Liang , Zhang Jinlong , Liu Yongdi
Published: May 2024

Against the backdrop of escalating antibiotic pollution, this study presents a novel approach to remediation using a photothermal heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalyst, Bi12CoO20/rGO, which efficiently activates peroxymonosulfate (PMS) under near‐infrared (NIR) light. This catalyst capitalize on the NIR absorption capabilities of Bi12CoO20 and the electron transfer properties of reduced graphene oxide (rGO). The restored sp2 structure of rGO serves as a conduit for electron transfer, crucial for the redox cycle of Co2+/Co3+ that facilitates PMS activation. Moreover, the incorporation of rGO significantly boosts the NIR absorption capacity of Bi12CoO20, thereby enhancing the photothermal conversion efficiency of the composite and further promoting PMS activation. This synergy enables efficient light‐to‐heat conversion and PMS activation, generating reactive oxygen species (ROS) essential for antibiotic degradation. Using levofloxacin (LVX) as a representative pollutant, the developed system achieves an impressive 99 % degradation rate within just 30 min under Bi12CoO20/rGO+PMS+NIR conditions. Moreover, this approach demonstrates robust stability and adaptability across diverse water compositions and pH ranges. Its eco‐friendly nature and renewable characteristics position it as a promising solution for combating antibiotic pollution through photothermal Fenton‐like technology, thereby harnessing solar energy for environmental remediation and fostering sustainable water management practices.
Study on efficient drying process of industrial silicon powder
Authors: Li Hang , Xu Lei , He Jiayu , Li Xuan , Han Zhaohui , Lu Junyu , Koppala Sivasankar
Published: May 2024

The drying procedure is an important consideration for the silicon powder processing. Herein, a comparative investigation of the drying efficiency, drying performance, and energy consumption of silicon powder after separation and purification of monocrystal silicon cutting slurry by using the hot air, far‐infrared and microwave drying treatments. The results show that microwave drying of 30 g silicon powder takes only 12 min, which is much shorter than hot air drying of 200 min and far infrared drying of 40 min. The water evaporation energy consumption of microwave drying reached 73.5 g/kW·h, which was 3.3 times than that of far infrared drying and 16.5 times than that of hot air drying. For 1 kg of silicon powder, the power consumption of microwave drying was 8 kW·h, while the far‐infrared drying was 26.7 kW·h, and the hot air drying was 133.4 kW·h, respectively. Therefore, effects of microwave power, drying temperature and drying time on the dehydration rate of silicon powder were investigated and optimized by response surface method, demonstrating that the microwave drying dehydration rate of 30 g silicon powder could reach 97.65%, and the power consumption could be reduced to 6.7 kW·h/kg under the conditions of microwave power of 1000 W, drying temperature of 89°C and drying time of 12 min. The present study shows that microwave drying of silicon powder is an energy‐saving and efficient process with good industrial application prospects.
First‐principles calculations on LaX3 (X: Sb, Sn) as electrode material for lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Sharma Neha , Matth Sadhana , Pal Raghavendra , Pandey Himanshu
Published: May 2024

Using first‐principle calculations, we investigate the rare‐earth intermetallic compound LaX3 (X = Sb and Sn) as a cathode material for rechargeable lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). The calculations have been performed to look into the stability of the structure and the electronic properties of host LaX3 as well as its lithiated phases, LixLa1−xX3 (0 < x ≤ 1). In this study, we have observed a structural phase transformation of these intermetallic compounds from a cubic to a tetragonal structure upon lithiation to host structure. The ground state energy is calculated using the WIEN2k package to determine the structure stability and volume change due to lithium addition, which is further used to calculate the formation energy, open circuit voltage (OCV), and lithium‐ion storage capacity. The equilibrium structural parameters for all the phases are determined by achieving a total energy convergence of 10−4 Ry. The estimated band structure along high‐symmetry lines in the first Brillouin zone and the total as well as partial density of states demonstrate unequivocally that the addition of lithium does not change the metallic nature of these electrode materials. We have also calculated the theoretical lithium‐ion storage capacity and OCV for all the compounds. Despite a higher value for OCV larger than 5 V, many of the investigated materials could not be found suitable from a synthesis point of view due to positive formation energies. The formation energy calculation shows that LaSb3, with a 50% concentration of Li, is the most stable compound out of those investigated here. The calculated OCV for Li0.5La0.5Sb3 is 4.27 V. This is substantially higher than the value obtained up to this point for LIBs, which ranges from 3.20 to 3.65 V/cell. These improved results related to the most stable alloy (Li0.5La0.5Sb3) investigated in this work indicate that it is necessary to check the experimental feasibility of its synthesis and actual device performance.
Modeling Full Life-Cycle Effects of Copper on Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) Populations
Authors: Janssen Sharon D. , Viaene Karel P. J. , Van Sprang Patrick , De Schamphelaere Karel A. C.
Published: May 2024

Population models are increasingly used to predict population-level effects of chemicals. For trout, most toxicity data are available on early-life stages, but this may cause population models to miss true population-level effects. We predicted population-level effects of copper (Cu) on a brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) population based on individual-level effects observed in either a life-cycle study or an early-life stage study. We assessed the effect of Cu on predicted trout densities (both total and different age classes) and the importance of accounting for effects on the full life cycle compared with only early-life stage effects. Additionally, uncertainty about the death mechanism and growth effects was evaluated by comparing the effect of different implementation methods: individual tolerance (IT) versus stochastic death (SD) and continuous versus temporary growth effects. For the life-cycle study, the same population-level no-observed-effect concentration (NOECpop) was predicted as the lowest reported individual-level NOEC (NOECind; 9.5 µg/L) using IT. For SD, the NOECpop was predicted to be lower than the NOECind for young-of-the-year and 1-year-old trout (3.4 µg/L), but similar for older trout (9.5 µg/L). The implementation method for growth effects did not affect the NOECpop of the life-cycle study. Simulations based solely on the early-life stage effects within the life-cycle study predicted unbounded NOECpop values (≥32.5 µg/L), that is, >3.4 times higher than the NOECpop based on all life-cycle effects. For the early-life stage study, the NOECpop for both IT and SD were predicted to be >2.6 times higher than the lowest reported NOECind. Overall, we demonstrate that effects on trout populations can be underestimated if predictions are solely based on toxicity data with early-life stages. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1662–1676. © 2024 SETAC