bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Machine learning models for outcome prediction in thrombectomy for large anterior vessel occlusion
Authors: Shirvani Omid , Warnat‐Herresthal Stefanie , Savchuk Ivan , Bode Felix J. , Nitsch Louisa , Stösser Sebastian , Ebrahimi Taraneh , von Danwitz Niklas , Asperger Hannah , Layer Julia , Meissner Julius , Thielscher Christian , Dorn Franziska , Lehnen Nils , Schultze Joachim L. , Petzold Gabor C. , Weller Johannes M. ,   the GSR‐ET Investigators
Published: August 2024

Objective

Predicting long‐term functional outcomes shortly after a stroke is challenging, even for experienced neurologists. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate multiple machine learning models and the importance of clinical/radiological parameters to develop a model that balances minimal input data with reliable predictions of long‐term functional independency.

Methods

Our study utilized data from the German Stroke Registry on patients with large anterior vessel occlusion who underwent endovascular treatment. We trained seven machine learning models using 30 parameters from the first day postadmission to predict a modified Ranking Scale of 0–2 at 90 days poststroke. Model performance was assessed using a 20‐fold cross‐validation and one‐sided Wilcoxon rank‐sum tests. Key features were identified through backward feature selection.

Results

We included 7485 individuals with a median age of 75 years and a median NIHSS score at admission of 14 in our analysis. Our Deep Neural Network model demonstrated the best performance among all models including data from 24 h postadmission. Backward feature selection identified the seven most important features to be NIHSS after 24 h, age, modified Ranking Scale after 24 h, premorbid modified Ranking Scale, intracranial hemorrhage within 24 h, intravenous thrombolysis, and NIHSS at admission. Narrowing the Deep Neural Network model's input data to these features preserved the high performance with an AUC of 0.9 (CI: 0.89–0.91).

Interpretation

Our Deep Neural Network model, trained on over 7000 patients, predicts 90‐day functional independence using only seven clinical/radiological features from the first day postadmission, demonstrating both high accuracy and practicality for clinical implementation on stroke units.
Fullerene‐Based Immunoregulatory Nanomaterials for Immunotherapy of Tumor and Immune‐Related Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Zhen Mingming , Xu Yuan , Wang Chunru , Bai Chunli
Published: August 2024

Immunoregulatory strategies for activating or inhibiting immune responses have emerged as a promising approach for treating tumors and immune‐related inflammatory diseases. Nanomaterials, also known for their inherent immunoregulatory capacity, are extensively investigated for their potential in immunotherapy. Among these immunoregulatory nanomaterials, fullerene‐based nanomaterials with unique immunoregulatory properties have attracted considerable attention for their use in immunotherapy. In this study, a comprehensive review of the recent research progress on fullerene‐based immunoregulatory nanomaterials is presented. It illustrates the specific mechanism of immune activation using fullerene nanomaterials and reviews their applications in tumor immunotherapy and tumor‐enhancement immunotherapy. Now It introduces the molecular mechanism of fullerene nanomaterials for inhibiting over‐activated inflammation. Herein, different negative immunoregulatory strategies are developed using fullerene nanomaterials to inhibit immune‐related inflammatory diseases. Additionally, the current challenges and prospects for developing efficient clinical usage of fullerene‐based immunoregulatory nanomaterials are discussed.
Synergistic Toughening and Strain Releasing Strategy in Metal Halide Perovskite Photovoltaics
Authors: Wang Chenyun , Shang Chuanzhen , Feng Haoyang , Lei Yudong , Qu Duo , Zhou Bin , Zhang Xinyue , Hu Hanwei , Zhang Yajie , Zhang Zhanfei , Li Bin , Bao Zheng , Ye Fengjun , Zheng Zebang , Wang Zhenhua , Sun Lijie , Tu Yongguang
Published: August 2024

Metal halide perovskite with high Young's modulus is prone to form cracks when subjected to mechanical stresses such as bending, twisting, or impacting, ultimately leading to a permanent decline in the performance of their photovoltaic devices. These mechanical properties pose challenges to the durability of long‐term service of photovoltaic devices and the production of flexible devices. To address this issue, the poly (lipoic acid‐co‐Styrene) elastomer is employed to modulate the modulus of perovskite films. The peak force quantitative nanomechanical atomic force microscopy measurements and nanoindentation tests demonstrated a reduction in modulus, with the lower modulus preventing the formation of cracks and defects during deformation. Moreover, this approach also suppressed the non‐radiative recombination of perovskite solar cells by leveraging the interaction between functional groups and defects. Through this method, the rigid inverted devices attained a power conversion efficiency of 24.42% alongside remarkable stability. Concurrently, flexible inverted devices achieved a power conversion efficiency of 22.21%. This strategy offers a promising avenue for fabricating flexible perovskite solar cells and enhancing their mechanical durability.
Rapid Regeneration of Graphite Anodes via Self‐Induced Microwave Plasma
Authors: Shan Minghui , Xu Shuchang , Cao Yunteng , Han Bing , Zhu Xiaoqing , Zhang Tao , Dang Chenyang , Zhu Jiacheng , Zhou Qi , Xue Zhixin , Xu Yaping , Zhu Qixuan , Islam Md Shariful , Yin Ben Hang , Chang Xijiang , Cao Changyong (Chase) , Xu Guiyin , Zhu Meifang
Published: August 2024

Battery recycling is a promising approach to mitigate the safety, environmental, and economic threats posed by numerous discarded lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, the unclear atomic‐scale degradation of spent graphite complicates recycling, resulting in energy‐intensive impurity removal and graphitization, which hampers industrialization. This study uses Cryo‐transmission electron microscopy (Cryo‐TEM) to characterize spent graphite degradation and develop a scalable graphite self‐induced microwave plasma method for efficient regeneration. Cryo‐TEM images show graphite coated with a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer, revealing lattice defects and structure expansion near the surface that impair electrochemical performance. The self‐induced microwave plasma method eradicates the SEI layer and restores the graphite lattice structure within 30 s. Multiphysics simulations indicate that the microwave field generates a strong electric field on the graphite surface, causing plasma discharge and rapid surface heating. Regenerated graphite demonstrates excellent electrochemical performance, with a specific charge capacity of 352.2 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and ≈81% capacity retention after 400 cycles, matching commercially available materials. This efficient method offers a promising approach for recycling graphite anodes.
In Situ Synthesis of Polyamidoxime Chains Inside the Negative‐Charged Confining Fields for Efficient Adsorption of Uranyl Ions
Authors: Cao Doudou , Cui Fengchao , Zhang Cheng , Song Yingbo , Zheng Yue , Cao Jiarui , Yuan Ye , Yang Yajie
Published: August 2024

Polyamidoxime (PAO) and its derivatives are widely regarded as promising adsorbents for uranium extraction from seawater. However, their close‐packed structure encapsulates a large number of adsorption sites and slows down the transfer rate of uranyl ions, resulting in a slight uranium adsorption capacity. Herein, PAO polymer chains are synthesized through the molecular coordination template method in the carboxylate covalent organic framework (COF) to obtain a PAO‐inserted COF adsorbent with open ion transport channels. After removing the protons, the COO− groups form in situ electric fields inside the 0.7 nm COF channel. This negatively‐charged framework reduces the electrostatic repulsion among uranium cations, thus realizing ultrahigh utilization of adsorption sites of PAO polymer (81.0%), far exceeding that of classical amidoxime‐based adsorbents (33.7%). After 10 days of contact with natural seawater, COF‐PAO achieved an average capacity of ≈12.26 mg‐U per g for uranium in Bohai (China), satisfying the uranium extraction standard (6.0 mg g−1). This work enumerates a method for the control of the spatial environment of polymer chains, and provides guidance for the design of subsequent high‐efficiency adsorbents.
Imaging Identifies Superior Inflammation Targeting of M1 Macrophages for Cryo‐Shocked Cell Pulmonary Drug Delivery to Treat Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Liu Yuhang , Fan Yeli , Yan Junjie , Yan Ge , Liu Qingfeng , Xu Qian , Wang Lizhen , Pan Donghui , Xu Yuping , Chen Chongyang , Chen Yu , Yang Min
Published: August 2024

In the realm of combating acute lung injury (ALI) induced by a myriad of triggers including sepsis, pneumonia, aspiration, trauma, and pancreatitis, macrophages emerge as crucial players. However, traditional treatments such as systemic administration of glucocorticoids come with the baggage of severe side effects, curtailing their utility. Enter an innovative solution: a biomimetic drug delivery system fashioned from cryo‐shocked macrophages, tailored for pulmonary drug delivery. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging has shed light on the remarkable targeting abilities of live M1 macrophages, showcasing their unparalleled efficacy in homing in on local inflammatory foci when contrasted with naive, M1, and M2 macrophages. Building upon this foundation, liquid nitrogen‐treated (LNT) M1 macrophages are developed, engineered to preserve their inflammation‐targeting prowess while sidestepping the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. This breakthrough allows for the delivery of glucocorticoids directly to inflamed lung tissues, efficiently quelling inflammation and mitigating pulmonary edema while drastically reducing systemic drug exposure. Inspired by the effectiveness of live M1 macrophages, the potential of glucocorticoid‐loaded LNT M1 macrophages are harnessed, utilizing them as a stealthy “Trojan horse” in the battle against pneumonia‐induced ALI. This innovative approach holds promise as a safe and potent treatment avenue for acute lung injury.
Stiffness and Interface Engineered Soft Electronics with Large‐Scale Robust Deformability
Authors: Liu Xiangye , Wang Qiangzheng , Zhou Sufeng , Feng Shiwei , Wei Yulin , Bu Fan , Wang Kai , Wang John , Zhang Biao , Guan Cao
Published: August 2024

Skin‐like stretchable electronics emerge as promising human–machine interfaces but are challenged by the paradox between superior electronic property and reliable mechanical deformability. Here, a general strategy is reported for establishing robust large‐scale deformable electronics by effectively isolating strains and strengthening interfaces. A copolymer substrate is designed to consist of mosaic stiff and elastic areas with nearly four orders of magnitudes modulus contrast and cross‐linked interfaces. Electronic functional devices and stretchable liquid metal (LM) interconnects are conformally attached at the stiff and elastic areas, respectively, through hydrogen bonds. As a result, functional devices are completely isolated from strains, and resistances of LM conductors change by less than one time when the substrate is deformed by up to 550%. By this strategy, solar cells, wireless charging antenna, supercapacitors, and light‐emitting diodes are integrated into a self‐powered electronic skin that can laminate on the human body and exhibit stable performances during repeated multimode deformations, demonstrating an efficient path for realizing highly deformable energy autonomous soft electronics.
Biomimetic Nanomodulators With Synergism of Photothermal Therapy and Vessel Normalization for Boosting Potent Anticancer Immunity
Authors: Lan Jinshuai , Zeng Ruifeng , Li Zhe , Yang Xuguang , Liu Li , Chen Lixia , Sun Liyan , Shen Yi , Zhang Tong , Ding Yue
Published: August 2024

Combination therapy using photothermal therapy (PTT) and immunotherapy is one of the most promising approaches for eliciting host immune responses to ablate tumors. However, its therapeutic efficacy is limited due to inefficient immune cell infiltration and cellular immune responses. In this study, a biomimetic immunostimulatory nanomodulator, Tm@PDA‐GA (4T1 membrane@polydopamine‐gambogic acid), with homologous targeting is developed. The 4T1 membrane (Tm) coating reduced immunogenicity and facilitated uptake of Tm@PDA‐GA by tumor cells. Polydopamine (PDA) as a drug carrier can induce PTT under near‐infrared ray (NIR) irradiation and immunogenic cell death (ICD) to activate dendritic cells (DCs). Moreover, Tm@PDA‐GA on‐demand released gambogic acid (GA) in an acidic tumor microenvironment, inhibiting the expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) for synergetic chemo‐photothermal anti‐tumor activity and increasing the ICD of 4T1 cells. More importantly, GA can normalize the vessels via HIF‐1α and VEGF inhibition to enhance immune infiltration and alleviate hypoxia stress. Thus, Tm@PDA‐GA induced ICD, activated DCs, stimulated cytotoxic T cells, and suppressed Tregs. Moreover, Tm@PDA‐GA is combined with anti‐PD‐L1 to further augment the tumor immune response and effectively suppress tumor growth and lung metastasis. In conclusion, biomaterial‐mediated PTT combined with vessel normalization is a promising strategy for effective immunotherapy of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Anisotropic Superprotonic Conduction in a Layered Single‐Component Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework with Multiple In‐Plane Open Channels
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Yang Lijuan , Chen Qian , Liu Peiyuan , Yang Zhiwei , Li Hai , Huang Xiao , Huang Wei
Published: August 2024

Hydrogen‐bonded organic frameworks (HOFs) are promising proton conductive materials because of their inherent and abundant hydrogen‐bonding sites. However, most superprotonic‐conductive HOFs are constructed from multiple components to enable favorable framework architectures and structural integrity. In this contribution, layered HOF‐TPB‐A3 with a single component is synthesized and exfoliated. The exfoliated nanoplates exhibited anisotropic superprotonic conduction, with in‐plane proton conductivities reaching 1.34 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 296 K and 98% relative humidity (RH). This outperforms the previously reported single‐component HOFs and is comparable with the state‐of‐the‐art multiple‐component HOFs. The high and anisotropic proton conductive properties can be attributed to the efficient proton transport along multiple open channels parallel to their basal planes. Moreover, an all‐solid‐state (ASS) proton rectifier device is demonstrated by combining HOF‐TPB‐A3 and a hydroxide ion‐conducting layered double hydroxide (LDH). This work suggests that single‐component HOFs with multiple open channels offer more opportunities as versatile platforms for proton conductors, making them promising candidates for conducting media in protonic devices.
Plant‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles as Potential Emerging Tools for Cancer Therapeutics
Authors: Ding Lin , Chang Chih‐Jung , Liang Min‐Li , Dong Kang‐Mei , Li Fu‐Rong
Published: August 2024

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membranous structures secreted by cells that play important roles in intercellular communication and material transport. Due to its excellent biocompatibility, lipophilicity, and homing properties, EVs have been used as a new generation of drug delivery systems for the diagnosis and treatment of tumors. Despite the potential clinical benefits of animal‐derived extracellular vesicles (AEVs), their large‐scale production remains sluggish due to the exorbitant cost of cell culture, challenging quality control measures, and limited production capabilities. This constraint significantly hinders their widespread clinical application. Plant‐derived extracellular vesicles (PEVs) share similar functionalities with AEVs, yet they hold several advantages including a wide variety of source materials, cost‐effectiveness, ease of preparation, enhanced safety, more stable physicochemical properties, and notable efficacy. These merits position PEVs as promising contenders with broad potential in the biomedical sector. This review will elucidate the advantages of PEVs, delineating their therapeutic mechanisms in cancer treatment, and explore the prospective applications of engineered PEVs as targeted delivery nano‐system for drugs, microRNAs, small interfering RNAs, and beyond. The aim is to heighten researchers’ focus on PEVs and expedite the progression from fundamental research to the transformation of groundbreaking discoveries.
Non‐Electronic Activation of Anthracenes Using Steric Repulsion of the 9‐Substituent with Chloro Groups at the peri‐Positions
Authors: Indah Reza Annisa , Iwai Kento , Nishiwaki Nagatoshi
Published: August 2024

We investigated how the introduction of substituent at the 9‐ or 10‐position of the 1,8‐dichloroanthracene framework affects the horizontal and vertical distortions of the anthracene rings. The 9‐substituted anthracenes showed higher distortions than their 10‐substituted counterparts due to the steric repulsion with two chloro groups at the peri‐positions. The distortion of anthracene framework affected their reactivity. Indeed, 9‐substituted anthracenes exhibited higher reactivity to undergo the Diels–Alder reaction with maleic anhydride, which was a result of non‐electronic activation.
Homochiral Covalent Organic Frameworks with Superhelical Nanostructures Enable Efficient Chirality‐Induced Spin Selectivity
Authors: Hou Bang , Wang Kaixuan , Jiang Chao , Guo Yu , Zhang Xiaofeng , Liu Yan , Cui Yong
Published: August 2024

Despite significant advancements in fabricating covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with diverse morphologies, creating COFs with superhelical nanostructures remains challenging. We report here the controlled synthesis of homochiral superhelical COF nanofibers by manipulating pendent alkyl chain lengths in organic linkers. This approach yields homochiral 3D COFs 13‐OR with a 10‐fold interpenetrated diamondoid structure (R=H, Me, Et, nPr, nBu) from enantiopure 1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol (BINOL)‐based tetraaldehydes and tetraamine. COF‐13‐OEt exhibits macroscopic chirality as right‐handed and left‐handed superhelical fibers, whereas others adopt spherical or non‐helical morphologies. Time‐tracking shows a self‐assembly process from non‐helical strands to single‐stranded helical fibers and intertwined superhelices. Ethoxyl substituents, being of optimal size, balance solvophobic effects and intermolecular interactions, driving the formation of superhelical nanostructures, with handedness determined by BINOL chirality. The superhelical nature of these materials is evident in their chiral recognition and spin‐filter properties, showing significantly improved enantiodiscrimination in carbohydrate binding (up to six times higher enantioselectivity) and a remarkable chiral‐induced spin selectivity (CISS) effect with a 48–51 % spin polarization ratio, a feature absent in non‐helical analogs.
Bismuthenium Cations for the Transport of Chloride Anions via Pnictogen Bonding
Authors: Hunter Nathanael H. , Gabbaï François P.
Published: August 2024

Our interest in the design of heavy pnictogen‐based Lewis acids for anion trafficking across biological membrane mimics has led us to investigate trivalent bismuthenium cations as chloride anion transporters. Here, we describe two chlorodiarylbismuthines, elaborated on a peri‐substituted naphthalene backbone and stabilized by an adjacent thio‐ or seleno‐ether functionality that engages the bismuth center in a Ch→Bi interaction (Ch=chalcogen). These new derivatives are stable in aqueous environment and readiliy transport chloride anions across the membrane of phospholipid‐based vesicles loaded with KCl. In addition to establishing the use of such motifs in anion transport, this investigation shows that the Lewis acidity, lipophilicity, and thus chloride transport properties depend on the nature of the chalcogen.
Asymmetrified Benzothiadiazole‐Based Solid Additives Enable All‐Polymer Solar Cells with Efficiency Over 19 %
Authors: Chen Tianqi , Zhong Yanyi , Duan Tainan , Tang Xian , Zhao Wenkai , Wang Jiaying , Lu Guanghao , Long Guankui , Zhang Jiangbin , Han Kai , Wan Xiangjian , Kan Bin , Chen Yongsheng
Published: August 2024

Disordered polymer chain entanglements within all‐polymer blends limit the formation of optimal donor‐acceptor phase separation. Therefore, developing effective methods to regulate morphology evolution is crucial for achieving optimal morphological features in all‐polymer organic solar cells (APSCs). In this study, two isomers, 4,5‐difluorobenzo‐c‐1,2,5‐thiadiazole (SF‐1) and 5,6‐difluorobenzo‐c‐1,2,5‐thiadiazole (SF‐2), were designed as solid additives based on the widely‐used electron‐deficient benzothiadiazole unit in nonfullerene acceptors. The incorporation of SF‐1 or SF‐2 into PM6 : PY‐DT blend induces stronger molecular packing via molecular interaction, leading to the formation of continuous interpenetrated networks with suitable phase‐separation and vertical distribution. Furthermore, after treatment with SF‐1 and SF‐2, the exciton diffusion lengths for PY‐DT films are extended to over 40 nm, favoring exciton diffusion and charge transport. The asymmetrical SF‐2, characterized by an enhanced dipole moment, increases the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of PM6 : PY‐DT‐based device to 18.83 % due to stronger electrostatic interactions. Moreover, a ternary device strategy boosts the PCE of SF‐2‐treated APSC to over 19 %. This work not only demonstrates one of the best performances of APSCs but also offers an effective approach to manipulate the morphology of all‐polymer blends using rational‐designed solid additives.
Novel Prodrug Strategies for the Treatment of Tuberculosis
Authors: Kim Christine G. , Jose Jiney , Hay Michael P. , Choi Peter J.
Published: August 2024

The emergence of drug‐resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb), the causative agent of tuberculosis, is on the rise and increasing antimicrobial resistance is a global threat. This phenomenon necessitates new drug design methods such as a prodrug strategy to develop novel antitubercular agents. The prodrug strategy is a viable and useful means to improve the absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET) profiles of pharmacologically active agents. Granulomas are a pathological hallmark of M.tb infection and bear a remarkable resemblance to the tumour microenvironment, including regions of hypoxia. The hypoxic environment observed in the two structures offer an exceptional opportunity to deliver antitubercular agents selectively in a similar manner to hypoxia activated prodrugs in cancer therapy. Nitroimidazoles have been studied extensively as bioactivated prodrugs of cancer, and their suitability as substrates for mammalian reductases highlight their huge potential. This review will discuss the mechanism of action and resistance mechanisms of the current prodrugs used for the treatment of tuberculosis. It will also highlight the potential advantages and challenges of using hypoxia activated prodrugs as a viable strategy to target latent M.tb in hypoxic regions of granulomas.
Propagating pluripotency – The conundrum of self‐renewal
Authors: Smith Austin
Published: August 2024

The discovery of mouse embryonic stem cells in 1981 transformed research in mammalian developmental biology and functional genomics. The subsequent generation of human pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) and the development of molecular reprogramming have opened unheralded avenues for drug discovery and cell replacement therapy. Here, I review the history of PSCs from the perspective that long‐term self‐renewal is a product of the in vitro signaling environment, rather than an intrinsic feature of embryos. I discuss the relationship between pluripotent states captured in vitro to stages of epiblast in the embryo and suggest key considerations for evaluation of PSCs. A remaining fundamental challenge is to determine whether naïve pluripotency can be propagated from the broad range of mammals by exploiting common principles in gene regulatory architecture.
An "R‐spondin code" for multimodal signaling ON‐OFF states
Authors: Niehrs Christof , Seidl Carina , Lee Hyeyoon
Published: August 2024

R‐spondins (RSPOs) are a family of secreted proteins and stem cell growth factors that are potent co‐activators of Wnt signaling. Recently, RSPO2 and RSPO3 were shown to be multifunctional, not only amplifying Wnt‐ but also binding BMP‐ and FGF receptors to downregulate signaling. The common mechanism underlying these diverse functions is that RSPO2 and RSPO3 act as “endocytosers” that link transmembrane proteins to ZNRF3/RNF43 E3 ligases and trigger target internalization. Thus, RSPOs are natural protein targeting chimeras for cell surface proteins. Conducting data mining and cell surface binding assays we report additional candidate RSPO targets, including SMO, PTC1,2, LGI1, ROBO4, and PTPR(F/S). We propose that there is an “R‐spondin code” that imparts combinatorial signaling ON‐OFF states of multiple growth factors. This code involves the modular RSPO domains, notably distinct motifs in the divergent RSPO‐TSP1 domains to mediate target interaction and internalization. The RSPO code offers a novel framework for the understanding how diverse signaling pathways may be coordinately regulated in development and disease.
The Secondary Metabolites from Genus Kitasatospora: A Promising Source for Drug Discovery
Authors: Wei Yuanjuan , Wang Guiyang , Li Yan , Gan Maoluo
Published: August 2024

Microbial secondary metabolites are well‐known resource for drug discovery. Kitasatospora is one of the rare genera of Actinomycetes and important antibiotics producer that are not fully explored. Recently an explosively increasing number of reports have proved that the genus is capable of producing various bioactive secondary metabolites. Here, we comprehensively summarized secondary metabolites from Kitasatospora strains including their chemical structures, biological effects, mechanisms of actions together with the related genomic and biosynthetic analyses. The review covered more than 100 metabolites with their significant pharmacological properties. Some of these natural products which include tyropeptin has been optimized to a promising lead compound. This work provides detailed information of Kitasatospora‐derived natural products and presents their potential for therapeutically relevant utilization, which would inspire the drug discovery from this genus in future.
Visible Light‐Promoted Aerobic Oxidation of α‐Silyl Styrenes with Alcohols
Authors: Tan Yan , Yang Bo , Ying Jiale , Yu Bing , Lu Zhan
Published: August 2024

Comprehensive Summary

A mechanistically distinctive visible‐light‐promoted metal‐free aerobic oxidation of alkenyl silanes with alcohols was disclosed to efficiently construct α‐alkoxy ketones under mild conditions. The primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohols could be used as reactants. The protocol could be carried out on a gram‐scale. Various derivatizations of products could be conducted. Mechanistic studies indicated the reaction was initiated by single‐electron oxidation of the alkenyl silanes, rather than radical addition to alkenyl silanes.
Environmental performance: A systematic review of literature and directions for future studies
Authors: Adjanor‐Doku Charlotte , Ellis Florence Yaa , Affum‐Osei Emmanuel
Published: August 2024

This review delves into the pressing concerns surrounding environmental performance, addressing the urgent need for action in light of environmental degradation and climate change threats. It surveys existing literature across geographical, industrial, and methodological dimensions, offering conceptual insights and empirical analyses. The study carefully examines factors influencing environmental performance, measurement scales, contextual elements, and intervening factors, exposing gaps and inconsistencies in current research. The analysis advocates for interdisciplinary, long‐term, innovative approaches to assess and enhance environmental performance holistically. It stresses the importance of inclusive strategies involving diverse stakeholders to foster sustainable environmental management. Ultimately, the review emphasizes collaborative efforts among policymakers, industries, communities, and individuals to tackle environmental challenges and promote ecological resilience.
Effectiveness of add‐on acetazolamide in children with drug‐resistant CHD2‐related epilepsy and in a zebrafish CHD2 model
Authors: Melikishvili Gia , Striano Pasquale , Shojeinia Elham , Gachechiladze Tamar , Kurua Ekaterine , Tabatadze Nazhi , Melikishvili Mariam , Koniashvili Otar , Khachiashvili Gvantsa , Epitashvili Nino , Rimma Gamirova , Belyaev Oleg , Tomenko Tatyana , Kharytonov Volodymyr , Guliyeva Ulviyya , Esguerra Camila V. , Crawford Alexander D. , Dulac Olivier
Published: August 2024

CHD2‐related epilepsy is characterized by early‐onset photosensitive myoclonic epilepsy with developmental delay and a high rate of pharmacoresistance. We sought to evaluate the efficacy of acetazolamide (ACZ) in CHD2‐related epilepsy, due to ACZ's unexpected efficacy in our first patient harboring a pathogenic CHD2 variant. We collected patients from different Eastern European countries with drug‐resistant CHD2‐related epilepsy who were then treated with ACZ. Patients underwent video EEG before and during ACZ treatment. In a zebrafish model of CHD2‐related epilepsy, ictal‐like events were recorded 5 days post‐fertilization after overnight ACZ exposure. Developmental delay preceded the onset of seizures in 10 of the 12 patients. Four had ataxia, and 6 exhibited autistic features. Seizures, primarily myoclonic, began at an average age of 3.4 years and were photosensitive in all 12 patients. Add‐on ACZ treatment controlled photosensitive seizures in all patients: 6 became seizure‐free, and in the remaining 6, seizure frequency decreased by over 75%. Four patients transitioned to ACZ monotherapy. The median follow‐up was 13 months. In the zebrafish model, ACZ exposure reduced ictal‐like events by 72%. ACZ, a well‐tolerated and cost‐effective medication, could be a good option for CHD2‐related epilepsy, predominantly manifesting with myoclonic seizures and photosensitivity.

Plain Language Summary

Epilepsy associated with CHD2 mutations is often pharmacoresistant and associated with developmental delay and eventually ataxia. There are several generalized seizure types, including generalized tonic–clonic seizures, but the most characteristic are jerks triggered by light stimulation. We collected 12 patients who received acetazolamide, a drug usually given as a diuretic and registered as a mild antiseizure medication. All jerks triggered by light disappeared while the frequency of spontaneous seizures decreased by over 75%. Further studies are needed to confirm this promising finding and identify the mechanism by which an old compound seems to have such a specific antiseizure effect.
Intelligent classification and identification method for Conger myriaster freshness based on DWG‐YOLOv8 network model
Authors: Gao Sheng , Wang Wei , Lv Yuanmeng , Chen Chenghua , Xie Wancui
Published: August 2024

The freshness of aquatic products is directly related to the safety and health of the people. Traditional methods of detecting the freshness of Conger myriaster rely on manual operations, which are labor‐intensive, inefficient, and highly subjective. This paper combines computer vision and the DWG‐YOLOv8 network model to establish an intelligent classification method for C. myriaster freshness. Through image augmentation, 484 C. myriaster samples were expanded to 2904 samples. The YOLOv8n model was improved by simplifying the network backbone, introducing Ghost convolution and the new DW‐GhostConv, thereby reducing the number of parameters and computational load. Test results show that the recognition accuracy of the DWG‐YOLOv8 model reached 98.958%, outperforming models such as ResNet18, Mobilenetv3 small, and Swin transformer v2 tiny. The model's parameter count is 16.609 K, the inference time is 57.80 ms, and the model size is only 102 KB. The research provides a reliable method for online intelligent and nondestructive detection of C. myriaster freshness.
Effects of synergistic action of courgette polysaccharide and coumalic acid on pasting, rheological, and thermal properties of potato starch
Authors: Zhang Yu , Han Xunze , Zhou Shengtong , Xiao Pengxinyi , Wang Yiming , Jiang Yuanxue , Yang Bingjie , Zhao Jing
Published: August 2024

The effects of courgette polysaccharides (CP) and coumalic acid (COA) on gelatinization, rheology, thermodynamics, microstructure, freeze–thaw stability, and in vitro digestibility of potato starch (PS) were studied. The synergistic effect of CP and COA on PS was further analyzed. The results showed that peak viscosity (PV) decreased from 6649.00 to 3462.50 mPa s and 3825.00 mPa s, respectively, after CP and COA were added. Under the combined effect of the two, it will be as low as 3225.50 mPa s. Besides, trough viscosity (TV), breakdown viscosity (BV), and final viscosity (FV) had the same trend. The presence of CP and COA can significantly delay the short‐term retrogradation of PS, especially in the case of high dose of CP and low dose of COA. Rheological tests showed that all sample gels belonged to the weak gel system (tan δ < 1) and pseudoplastic fluids. Meanwhile, the results of thermodynamic, Fourier transform infrared, and Raman spectroscopy exhibited that the presence of CP and COA significantly retarded the retrogradation of PS, especially at higher levels. In addition, the presence of CP and COA significantly reduced the formation of PS gel structures, especially when acting together. Furthermore, CP and COA reduced the content of rapidly digestible starch in PS and increased the content of resistant starch. Differently, CP can increase the slowly digestible starch content, whereas COA did the opposite. In the ternary composite system, CP and COA will also interact and restrict each other. Hence, the characteristics of PS can be better improved by adjusting the ratio of CP and COA. Meanwhile, the results of the study can provide potential possibilities for the application of CP and COA in food and improve the quality of PS‐related products.
Optimization of banana juice extraction by combining hot water treatment, citric acid and pectinase
Authors: Laskar Tanvir Ahmed , Boruah Abhinab , Singla Mohit , Sit Nandan
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on optimizing the extraction of Bhim Kol banana juice using a combined approach of enzymatic extraction, hot water treatment, and citric acid concentration. Bhim Kol bananas are recognized for their distinctive flavor and nutritional richness; however, their dense pulp and thick peel pose challenges for traditional extraction methods. The research seeks to improve juice yield, flavor retention, and nutritional content by investigating the synergistic effects of enzymatic extraction, hot water treatment, and citric acid. Hot water treatment durations of 0, 20, and 40 min, Pectinase concentrations of 0, 0.4%, and 0.8%, and citric acid concentrations of 0, 0.1%, and 0.2% were explored. Experiments are designed according to the Box–Behnken design to determine optimal processing conditions. The outcomes reveal that under optimal conditions, 36.548 min of hot water treatment, 0.80% pectinase concentration, and 0.20% citric acid concentration, a 62% juice yield was achieved. This is accompanied by attributes such as clarity (0.878), lightness (L) value of 30.364, total soluble solids of 20.5°B, reducing sugar content (15.126%), viscosity (4.288 mPa.s), acidity (0.268%), and pH (4.256), respectively. These findings have practical implications for the banana processing industry, offering insights into sustainable and cost‐effective methods for extracting Bhim Kol banana juice.
Addressing concerns about sustainability and animal welfare: Investigating consumers' adoption and behavioral intention towards plant‐based eggs
Authors: Chen Han‐Shen , Chao Ching‐Tzu , Lin I‐Kai
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to address the concerns regarding sustainability and animal welfare that have led to egg shortages. By examining consumer adoption and purchase intention towards plant‐based eggs as a viable alternative, this study identifies the key factors influencing consumer interest. The study integrates the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Value‐Attitude‐Behavior (VAB) frameworks. Data from 239 responses were collected through a questionnaire survey and analyzed using SPSS 27.0 and AMOS 28.0. The results highlight the significant impact of intrinsic food value and sensory appeal on purchase intention. Attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control mediate the relationship between food value and purchase intention. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for food industry professionals by enabling them to develop targeted strategies. Moreover, this study emphasizes plant‐based eggs as a sustainable and health‐conscious solution to egg shortages, thereby promoting overall industry sustainability.
Steering them softly with a quality label? A case study analysis of a patient channelling strategy without financial incentives
Authors: van der Geest Stéphanie A. , Varkevisser Marco
Published: August 2024

Steering patients to lower priced and/or higher quality providers can increase the value of a healthcare system. In a managed care setting, health insurers may use financial incentives for this purpose. However, introducing cost‐sharing differences among providers may cause enrolee discontent, which may result in disenrollment. Simply informing and guiding enrolees to preferred providers without financial incentives may therefore be an attractive alternative for insurers. But the effectiveness of such a soft channelling strategy is unclear. This paper investigates whether a Dutch health insurer's strategy of designating preferred hospitals for breast cancer surgery and for inguinal hernia repair affected its enrolees' hospital choices. In October 2008, preferred hospitals received a quality label (‘TopCare’) because of their high‐quality performances in previous years. The insurer recommended these hospitals to enrolees without a financial incentive. Individual patient‐level claims data from the insurer over a 5‐year period (2006–2010) and a conditional logit choice model was used. Our study samples for breast cancer surgery and inguinal hernia repair included 7985 and 17,292 patients, respectively. It is found that for both procedures, patients ex ante already had a certain preference for the hospitals designated by the insurer as top‐quality providers, even when considering possible additional travel time. Also, for both procedures, patient choice did not differ significantly before and after the launch of the TopCare label. The quality label did not increase patient demand for preferred hospitals. Thus, the insurer's strategy to steer patients to preferred hospital alternatives without a financial incentive was not effective.
Exploring the anticancer potential of new 3‐cyanopyridine derivatives bearing N‐acylhydrazone motif: Synthesis, DFT calculations, cytotoxic evaluation, molecular modeling, and antioxidant properties
Authors: Kadi Ibtissem , Şekerci Güldeniz , Boulebd Houssem , Zebbiche Zineddine , Tekin Suat , Benarous Khedidja , Serseg Talia , Küçükbay Fatümetüzzehra , Küçükbay Hasan , Boumoud Taoues
Published: August 2024

3‐Cyanopyridine derivatives are known for exhibiting excellent anticancer activity due to their strong capability to inhibit various biological targets, including Pim‐1 kinase, survivin, and tubulin polymerization. On the other hand, N‐acylhydrazones (NAH) are known to be a very versatile motif in medicinal chemistry and drug design. Based on these data, we report in this paper, the synthesis of novel 3‐cyanopyridines incorporating N‐acyl hydrazine scaffold, the evaluation of their cytotoxicity on the breast (MCF‐7) and ovarian (A‐2780) cancer cell lines and their antioxidant properties. Excluding 4a and 4d, all tested molecules exhibited high cytotoxicity against A‐2780, with IC50 values ranging from 1.14 to 1.76 µM. Conversely, only four molecules 3d, 4b, 4c, and 4d demonstrated cytotoxicity against MCF‐7, with IC50 values ranging from 1.14 to 3.38 µM. On the other hand, all the tested molecules exhibited a moderate antioxidant capacity in both the DPPH and metal chelation assays. Docking and molecular dynamics studies revealed that 2d, 3d, and 4d are potential inhibitors of tubulin and the œstrogen receptor, which may explain their high cytotoxicity. These results are promising to study these newly synthesized 3‐cyanopyridine‐N‐acylhydrazones in depth for use as potential anticancer candidates.
Porphyrin‐based conjugated microporous polymer‐grafted graphene electrochemical sensor for vanillin detection
Authors: Xiang Gang , Xu Wensi , Zhuge Wenfeng , Zhang Zhengfa , Zhang Cuizhong , Peng Jinyun , Li Fuyan
Published: August 2024

Vanillin is often used in food and medicine because of its unique flavor and pharmacological effects. However, excessive vanillin intake can harm human health; therefore, rapid and simple vanillin detection methods are required. In this study, porphyrin‐based conjugated microporous polymer‐grafted graphene (CMP‐rGO) was synthesized via the Sonogashira–Hagihara coupling reaction and assembled into an electrochemical sensor for vanillin detection. Due to the enhanced electrical conductivity and electrocatalytic characteristics of CMP‐rGO, the sensor demonstrated a low detection limit of 0.07 μM and a broad response range of 0.08–20 μM. Furthermore, this reusable sensor exhibited acceptable recoveries when evaluating vanillin in pharmaceuticals and human serum. This study offers technological assistance for the rapid detection of vanillin in pharmaceuticals and broadens the application of CMP‐rGO.
Chewing shrews: Examining the morphology and function of the masticatory musculature in Soricidae via diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography
Authors: Pommerening Sebastian D. V. , Martin Thomas
Published: August 2024

Essential for sustaining a high metabolic rate is the efficient fragmentation of food, which is determined by molar morphology and the movement of the jaw. The latter is related to the jaw morphology and the arrangement of the masticatory muscles. Soricid jaw apparatuses are unique among mammals, as the articulation facet on the condylar process is separated into a dorsal and a ventral part, which has often been linked to more differentiated jaw motions. Soricidae also possess a remarkably elongated angular process. However, the precise function of the unique morphology of soricid jaw apparatuses has not been fully understood yet. By digitally reconstructing the masticatory musculature via the diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography technique, we show how the unique jaw morphology is reflected in the spatial organization as well as the inner architecture and respective fascicle orientations of the muscles. From the lines of action of the m. masseter and the m. pterygoideus internus, both muscles inserting on the lateral and medial side of the angular process, respectively, we infer that the angular process is substantial for roll and yaw rotations of the mandible. The m. masseter is subdivided into four and the m. pterygoideus internus into five subunits, each exhibiting a slightly different line of action and torque. This enables Soricidae to adjust and adapt these rotational movements according to the properties of the ingested food, allowing for more efficient fragmentation. Additionally, those guided rotational motions allow for precise occlusion despite tooth wear. The temporalis is the largest of the adductor muscles and is mainly responsible for exerting the bite force. Overall, the unique jaw bone morphology in conjunction with the complex muscle arrangement may contribute towards a more efficient energy gain and the maintenance of a high metabolic rate, which is crucial for small‐bodied mammals such as shrews.
Neural network auto‐segmentation of serial‐block‐face scanning electron microscopy images exhibit collagen fibril structural differences with tendon type and health
Authors: Bloom Ellen T. , Sabanayagam Chandran R. , Benson Jamie M. , Lin Lily M. , Ross Jean L. , Caplan Jeffrey L. , Elliott Dawn M.
Published: August 2024

A U‐Net machine learning algorithm was adapted to automatically segment tendon collagen fibril cross‐sections from serial block face scanning electron microscopy (SBF‐SEM) and create three‐dimensional (3D) renderings. We compared the performance of routine Otsu thresholding and U‐Net for a positional tendon that has low fibril density (rat tail tendon), an energy‐storing tendon that has high fibril density (rat plantaris tendon), and a high fibril density tendon hypothesized to have disorganized 3D ultrastructure (degenerated rat plantaris tendon). The area segmentation of the tail and healthy plantaris tendon had excellent accuracy for both the Otsu and U‐Net, with an Intersection over Union (IoU) of 0.8. With degeneration, only the U‐Net could accurately segment the area, whereas Otsu IoU was only 0.45. For boundary validation, the U‐Net outperformed Otsu segmentation for all tendons. The fibril diameter from U‐Net was within 10% of the manual segmentation, however, the Otsu underestimated the fibril diameter by 39% in healthy plantaris and by 84% in the degenerated plantaris. Fibril geometry was averaged across the entire image stack and compared across tendon types. The tail had a lower fibril area fraction (58%) and larger fibril diameter (0.31 µm) than the healthy plantaris (67% and 0.21 µm) and degenerated plantaris tendon (66% and 0.19 µm). This method can be applied to a large variety of tissues to quantify 3D collagen fibril structure.