bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When all you have is a dermatoscope—start looking at the nails
Authors: Haenssle Holger A. , Blum Andreas , Hofmann-Wellenhof Rainer , Kreusch Juergen , Stolz Wilhelm , Argenziano Giuseppe , Zalaudek Iris , Brehmer Franziska
Published: November 2014

Pigmented and non-pigmented nail alterations are a frequent challenge for dermatologists. A profound knowledge of clinical and dermatoscopic features of nail disorders is crucial because a range of differential diagnoses and even potentially life-threatening diseases are possible underlying causes. Nail matrix melanocytes of unaffected individuals are in a dormant state, and, therefore, fingernails and toenails physiologically are non-pigmented. The formation of continuous, longitudinal pigmented streaks (longitudinal melanonychia) may either be caused by a benign activation of matrix melanocytes (e.g., as a result of trauma, inflammation, or adverse drug reactions) or by a true melanocytic proliferation (e.g., in a nevus or melanoma). In general, non-continuous nail alterations, affecting only limited parts of the nail apparatus, are most frequently of non-melanocytic origin. Important and common differential diagnoses in these cases are subungual hemorrhage or onychomycosis. In addition, foreign bodies, bacterial infections, traumatic injuries, or artificial discolorations of the nail unit may less frequently cause non-continuous nail alterations. Many systemic diseases that may also show involvement of the nails (e.g., psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, lichen planus, alopecia areata) tend to induce alterations in numerous if not all nails of the hands and feet. A similar extensive and generalized alteration of nails has been reported after treatment with a number of systemic drugs, especially antibiotics and cytostatics. Benign or malignant neoplasms that may also affect the nail unit include glomus tumor, Bowen’s disease, squamous cell carcinoma, and rare collision tumors. This review aims to assist clinicians in correctly evaluating and diagnosing nail disorders with the help of dermatoscopy.
The role of dermoscopy and digital dermoscopy follow-up in the clinical diagnosis of melanoma: clinical and dermoscopic features of 99 consecutive primary melanomas
Authors: Salerni Gabriel , Terán Teresita , Alonso Carlos , Fernández-Bussy Ramón
Published: November 2014

Background: Early recognition is the most important intervention to improve melanoma prognosis.

Objective: To report the value of dermoscopy and digital dermoscopy in the clinical diagnosis of malignant melanoma (MM).

Methods: Retrospective analysis of 99 consecutive primary MMs diagnosed between 2010 and 2013. The MMs were divided into 3 groups: 1) the MM was the reason for consultation (MMC), 2) the MM was detected during routine control of nevi (MMRC), and 3) the MM was detected due to changes observed during digital dermoscopy follow-up (MMDFU). Clinical, dermoscopic and histologic features were assessed.

Results: A total of 99 MMs were diagnosed in 89 patients (55% male) with a mean age of 50.8 (18-93) years. Of all the MMs, 35 were the reason for patient consultation (MMC), 52 were detected during routine control of nevi (MMRC) and 12 were diagnosed due to changes observed with digital dermoscopy (MMDFU). On clinical examination, 74.2 % of MMC met the 4 ABCD criteria, while only 30.7 % of MMRC and 8.3 % of MMDFU. Most MMC were correctly classified as malignant according to dermoscopy, but 44.2% of MMRC and only 16.7% of MMDFU. 22.9% of MMC, 50% of MMRC and 58.3% of MMDFU were in situ. Mean Breslow thickness was significantly lower in the MMDFU group (0.52 mm) than in the MMRC and MMDFU groups (0.77 and 1.43 mm respectively).

Conclusions: The use of dermoscopy and digital dermoscopy allows the detection of MMs in early stages, even in the absence of specific criteria for malignancy.
Vitiligo Extent Tensity Index (VETI) score: a new definition, assessment and treatment evaluation criteria in vitiligo
Authors: Feily Amir
Published: November 2014

Although skin is the largest organ of the body, there are no standardized reproducible methods for assessing severity of many skin diseases. Due to lack of consensus, methods of assessment and inexistence of precise scoring system, there is no application for vitiligo estimation in real practice. In this paper the author describes VETI score as a new treatment evaluation criteria and severity assessment method for vitiligo. This new tool, as does the PASI score in psoriasis, may be able to produce a constant and reproducible number and to help clinical research on vitiligo patients. Additionally, it has a potential to be a source of any computed application for researchers working on vitiligo patients.
Diagnosis of ophthalmomyiasis externa by dermatoscopy
Authors: Naimer Sody A. , Mumcuoglu Kosta Y.
Published: November 2014

Ophthalmomyiasis in humans caused by the larvae of the sheep nasal botfly (Oestrus ovis) and is a rare phenomenon in Israel. We describe the utilization of the dermatoscope as a diagnostic tool for the facilitation of early diagnosis of conjunctivitis due to the infestation of the eyes by the sheep nasal botfly in two patients. After the physical removal of the larvae with the help of a cotton swab applicator under a slit lamp examination and the topical use of antibiotics, the clinical symptoms improved within 1-2 days. Undoubtedly the dermatoscope played a crucial role leading to the definitive diagnosis and immediate therapeutic intervention.
Concise Review: Mesoangioblast and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapy for Muscular Dystrophy: Progress, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: Berry Suzanne E.
Published: November 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and mesoangioblasts (MABs) are multipotent cells that differentiate into specialized cells of mesodermal origin, including skeletal muscle cells. Because of their potential to differentiate into the skeletal muscle lineage, these multipotent cells have been tested for their capacity to participate in regeneration of damaged skeletal muscle in animal models of muscular dystrophy. MSCs and MABs infiltrate dystrophic muscle from the circulation, engraft into host fibers, and bring with them proteins that replace the functions of those missing or truncated. The potential for systemic delivery of these cells increases the feasibility of stem cell therapy for the large numbers of affected skeletal muscles in patients with muscular dystrophy. The present review focused on the results of preclinical studies with MSCs and MABs in animal models of muscular dystrophy. The goals of the present report were to (a) summarize recent results, (b) compare the efficacy of MSCs and MABs derived from different tissues in restoration of protein expression and/or improvement in muscle function, and (c) discuss future directions for translating these discoveries to the clinic. In addition, although systemic delivery of MABs and MSCs is of great importance for reaching dystrophic muscles, the potential concerns related to this method of stem cell transplantation are discussed.
Defining the Optimal Window for Cranial Transplantation of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell-Derived Cells to Ameliorate Radiation-Induced Cognitive Impairment
Authors: Acharya Munjal M. , Martirosian Vahan , Christie Lori-Ann , Riparip Lara , Strnadel Jan , Parihar Vipan K. , Limoli Charles L.
Published: November 2014

Past preclinical studies have demonstrated the capability of using human stem cell transplantation in the irradiated brain to ameliorate radiation-induced cognitive dysfunction. Intrahippocampal transplantation of human embryonic stem cells and human neural stem cells (hNSCs) was found to functionally restore cognition in rats 1 and 4 months after cranial irradiation. To optimize the potential therapeutic benefits of human stem cell transplantation, we have further defined optimal transplantation windows for maximizing cognitive benefits after irradiation and used induced pluripotent stem cell-derived hNSCs (iPSC-hNSCs) that may eventually help minimize graft rejection in the host brain. For these studies, animals given an acute head-only dose of 10 Gy were grafted with iPSC-hNSCs at 2 days, 2 weeks, or 4 weeks following irradiation. Animals receiving stem cell grafts showed improved hippocampal spatial memory and contextual fear-conditioning performance compared with irradiated sham-surgery controls when analyzed 1 month after transplantation surgery. Importantly, superior performance was evident when stem cell grafting was delayed by 4 weeks following irradiation compared with animals grafted at earlier times. Analysis of the 4-week cohort showed that the surviving grafted cells migrated throughout the CA1 and CA3 subfields of the host hippocampus and differentiated into neuronal (∼39%) and astroglial (∼14%) subtypes. Furthermore, radiation-induced inflammation was significantly attenuated across multiple hippocampal subfields in animals receiving iPSC-hNSCs at 4 weeks after irradiation. These studies expand our prior findings to demonstrate that protracted stem cell grafting provides improved cognitive benefits following irradiation that are associated with reduced neuroinflammation.
Biochemical and Fatty Acids Composition of Water Buffalo (Bubalus Bubalis) Follicular Fluid
Authors: Vencato J. , Badon T. , Bedin S. , Cogo P. , Simonato M. , Stelletta C.
Published: November 2014

Aim of this study was to characterize the biochemical and fatty acids composition of follicular fluid collected from follicles of different sizes and in different phases of ovarian cycle in water buffalo farmed in Italy. Ovaries were collected at slaughterhouse during the breeding season; follicular fluid was aspirated dividing samples in small and large follicles (< 6 mm and > 6 mm respectively) and in luteal and follicular phase. Biochemical analysis and gas-chromatography were performed. Biochemical and fatty acids composition were greatly influenced by both follicular dimension and phase of ovarian cycle. Biochemical composition and its variations were in agreement with previously study conducted in buffalo and other species. This is the first report of the fatty acids composition of buffalo follicular fluid. Twenty-two fatty acids were identified in follicular fluid; nine were saturated fatty acids, six monounsatured fatty acids and seven polyunsatured fatty acids. The most dominant fatty acids were linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid and arachidonic acid. All the identified fatty acids concentrations vary at least because of follicle dimension or phase, with the exception of γ-linoleic acid and arachidonic acid which concentrations remain stable in all classes.
“Attractive to Strangers and Instructive to Students.” The McCullochs’ 19th Century Bird Collection in Dalhousie College
Authors: Mills Eric L.
Published: November 2014

Thomas McCulloch, Presbyterian minister and educator, founder of Pictou Academy, first President of Dalhousie College 1838-1843, established a museum in Pictou, NS, by 1828, including a bird collection. To McCulloch, the order of the natural world instilled in students principles of a liberal education and a model of society. His first collections were sold, but when McCulloch came to Dalhousie in 1838 he started a new collection, hoping to make it the basis of a provincial museum. In this he was aided by his son Thomas, who had been trained as a taxidermist. The younger McCulloch kept and expanded the collection until his death, after which it passed to Dalhousie College. The current McCulloch Collection, mainly the work of Thomas McCulloch junior, seems to exemplify purposes and practices of 19th century natural history. But research shows that the collection has a hybrid origin and must be viewed with great caution as an historical artifact. This is a case study in the difficulty of interpreting 19th century natural history collections without careful examination of their history.
Drep-2 is a novel synaptic protein important for learning and memory
Authors: Andlauer Till F M , Scholz-Kornehl Sabrina , Tian Rui , Kirchner Marieluise , Babikir Husam A , Depner Harald , Loll Bernhard , Quentin Christine , Gupta Varun K , Holt Matthew G , Dipt Shubham , Cressy Michael , Wahl Markus C , Fiala André , Selbach Matthias , Schwärzel Martin , Sigrist Stephan J
Published: November 2014

CIDE-N domains mediate interactions between the DNase Dff40/CAD and its inhibitor Dff45/ICAD. In this study, we report that the CIDE-N protein Drep-2 is a novel synaptic protein important for learning and behavioral adaptation. Drep-2 was found at synapses throughout the Drosophila brain and was strongly enriched at mushroom body input synapses. It was required within Kenyon cells for normal olfactory short- and intermediate-term memory. Drep-2 colocalized with metabotropic glutamate receptors (mGluRs). Chronic pharmacological stimulation of mGluRs compensated for drep-2 learning deficits, and drep-2 and mGluR learning phenotypes behaved non-additively, suggesting that Drep 2 might be involved in effective mGluR signaling. In fact, Drosophila fragile X protein mutants, shown to benefit from attenuation of mGluR signaling, profited from the elimination of drep-2. Thus, Drep-2 is a novel regulatory synaptic factor, probably intersecting with metabotropic signaling and translational regulation.
The PACT Act—Expanding Coverage and Access for Veterans
Authors: Beckman Adam L. , Jacobs Joshua , Elnahal Shereef M.
Published: August 2024

This Viewpoint examines the implementation of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act, known as the PACT Act, which expanded health care for millions of veterans from any era exposed to toxic hazards.
T‐cell immunosuppression in sepsis is augmented by sciatic denervation‐induced skeletal muscle atrophy
Authors: Osa Sumika , Enoki Yuki , Takahashi Daisuke , Chuang Victor Tuan Giam , Taguchi Kazuaki , Matsumoto Kazuaki
Published: August 2024

Skeletal muscle atrophy is a known risk factor for immunosuppressive conditions and for a poor prognosis in sepsis. However, its immunopathology has not been experimentally elucidated. This study investigated the effects of skeletal muscle atrophy on the immunopathology of sepsis. Male C57BL/6J mice were subjected to sciatic denervation (DN) and caecal ligation and puncture (CLP) to induce muscle atrophy or sepsis. The macrophages, myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (MDSC), and T‐cells in peritoneal and spleen were analysed using flow cytometry. DN‐induced muscle atrophy did not affect macrophage and MDSC populations. In contrast, the percentage of cytotoxic T‐lymphocyte‐associated antigen (CTLA)‐4+ CD4+ T‐cells, programmed death (PD)‐1+ CD8+ T‐cells, regulatory T‐cells, and the CTLA‐4+ regulatory T‐cells was statistically significantly higher in DN‐CLP mice than in sham‐CLP mice. Skeletal muscle atrophy before sepsis triggers excessive T cell immunosuppression, which may contribute to the exacerbation of sepsis under skeletal muscle atrophy.
Association of Muscle Quantity and Quality With Knee Extension Strength in Knee Osteoarthritis: The Nagahama Study
Authors: Okada Shogo , Taniguchi Masashi , Ikezoe Tome , Tsuboyama Tadao , Ito Hiromu , Matsuda Shuichi , Matsuda Fumihiko , Ichihashi Noriaki
Published: August 2024

Objective

We aimed to examine whether lower‐limb muscle quantity and quality assessed by bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) were associated with knee extension strength and whether the association differed with knee osteoarthritis (OA) severity.

Methods

We included 1,525 participants (63.6% women; mean ± SD age 68.0 ± 5.3 years) from the Nagahama Prospective Cohort. Knee extension strength was measured during maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Lower‐limb muscle mass and the extracellular water (ECW)–to–intracellular water (ICW) ratio were used as indicators of muscle quantity and quality, respectively, and assessed via a BIA device. We executed multiple linear regression analyses to investigate the association of muscle quantity and quality with knee extension strength. Additionally, participants were classified into three groups with respect to OA severity and symptoms: control, early OA, and advanced OA groups; subgroup analyses were also executed.

Results

The muscle mass (P < 0.001) and ECW‐to‐ICW ratio (P = 0.009) were significantly associated with knee extension strength. In the subgroup analysis, the muscle mass was significantly associated with knee extension strength (P < 0.001), but there was no association between ECW‐to‐ICW ratio and knee extension strength (P = 0.731) in the control group. In the early OA and advanced OA groups, the muscle mass (both P < 0.001) and ECW‐to‐ICW ratio (early OA, P = 0.034; advanced OA, P = 0.015) were significantly associated with knee extension strength.

Conclusion

Lower‐limb muscle quality was associated with knee extension strength, and the association was stronger in patients with knee OA. These findings suggest that both muscle quantity and quality should be assessed to better understand muscle function in patients with knee OA.
Functional Patient‐Reported Outcome Measures After Hip or Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review and Content Analysis Using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health
Authors: Karimijashni Motahareh , Abtahi Forough , Abbasalipour Shokoofih , Ranjbar Parisa , Dabbagh Armaghan , Westby Marie , Ramsay Tim , Beaulé Paul E. , Poitras Stéphane
Published: August 2024

Objective

This systematic review aimed to identify the existing patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) used in hip or knee arthroplasty for adults with osteoarthritis and assess their content validity using the modified International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) core set for osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Four databases were systematically searched to identify disease or joint‐specific PROMs evaluating function after hip or knee arthroplasty. Two reviewers independently evaluated the content of PROMs based on established ICF linking rules.

Results

From 449 studies included in this review, 50 PROMs were identified. The mobility chapter of activities and participation was the most common component, followed by the sensory function and pain chapter of body function and structure. The most frequent ICF activity and participation categories were d451 going up and down stairs, d4701 using private motorized transportation, d4104 standing, and d4154 maintaining a standing position. However, 11 ICF categories of the modified OA core set were not captured in any PROMs. This ICF‐based content analysis of PROMs revealed that included activity and participation categories vary widely, with little overlap among PROMs. The Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score and the Hip Disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score had the most coverage for activity and participation (36.7%).

Conclusion

Even though our search identified 50 specific PROMs, there remain gaps in content related to activity and participation coverage. By providing a content analysis of the PROMs used after hip or knee arthroplasty, this study may help clinicians select PROMs based on covered categories and relevant clinical objectives.
Ultrahigh Energy Density Achieved at High Efficiency in Dielectric Capacitors by Regulating α‐Phase Crystallization in Polypropylene Films with Fluorinated Groups
Authors: Li Wenxuan , Wang Qiuwei , Zhang Guanxiang , He Yijin , Qin Ba , Zhang Xiao , Liu Zhenxue , Gong Honghong , Zhang Zhicheng
Published: August 2024

Polypropylene (PP)‐based dielectric film capacitors cannot meet the rapid development requirements of electromagnetic energy equipment because of their low energy storage density (Ue). The development of new dielectric materials is hampered by the trade‐off between high energy storage properties and thin film processibility for capacitors. This study proposes a strategy to improve the comprehensive energy storage properties of PP films by reconciling the trade‐offs not only between their polarity and crystallinity but also between their energy storage and processing performance. In this approach, a trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFEMA) modified PP film is fabricated at the kilogram scale. The TFEMA units regulate PP crystallization in the α‐phase, resulting in improved mechanical, dielectric, and energy storage performance. The optimal PP‐g‐TFEMA film exhibits a remarkable breakdown strength (Eb) of 865 MV m−1 and a record Ue of 8.2 J cm−3 at over 90% discharge efficiency. The promising thin film processibility, excellent self‐healing, and long‐term reliability of PP are finely preserved in the aluminum (Al) coated PP‐g‐TFEMA film. These findings present a novel avenue to significantly increase the Ue of film capacitors for long‐term service not only in academia but also in industry.
Observation of Antiferroelectric Domain Walls in a Uniaxial Hyperferroelectric
Authors: Conroy Michele , Småbråten Didrik René , Ophus Colin , Shapovalov Konstantin , Ramasse Quentin M. , Hunnestad Kasper Aas , Selbach Sverre M. , Aschauer Ulrich , Moore Kalani , Gregg J. Marty , Bangert Ursel , Stengel Massimiliano , Gruverman Alexei , Meier Dennis
Published: August 2024

Ferroelectric domain walls are a rich source of emergent electronic properties and unusual polar order. Recent studies show that the configuration of ferroelectric walls can go well beyond the conventional Ising‐type structure. Néel‐, Bloch‐, and vortex‐like polar patterns have been observed, displaying strong similarities with the spin textures at magnetic domain walls. Here, the discovery of antiferroelectric domain walls in the uniaxial ferroelectric Pb5Ge3O11 is reported. Highly mobile domain walls with an alternating displacement of Pb atoms are resolved, resulting in a cyclic 180° flip of dipole direction within the wall. Density functional theory calculations show that Pb5Ge3O11 is hyperferroelectric, allowing the system to overcome the depolarization fields that usually suppress the antiparallel ordering of dipoles along the longitudinal direction. Interestingly, the antiferroelectric walls observed under the electron beam are energetically more costly than basic head‐to‐head or tail‐to‐tail walls. The results suggest a new type of excited domain‐wall state, expanding previous studies on ferroelectric domain walls into the realm of antiferroic phenomena.
Efficient Reduction of Casimir Forces by Self‐Assembled Bio‐Molecular Thin Films
Authors: Sedmik René I.P. , Urech Alexander , Zalevsky Zeev , Carmeli Itai
Published: August 2024

Casimir forces arise if the spectrum of electromagnetic fluctuations are restricted by boundaries. There is great interest both in fundamental science and technical applications to better understand and technically control these forces. In this work, the influence of five different self‐assembled bio and organic monolayer thin films on the Casimir force between a plate and a sphere is experimentally investigated. It is found that the films, despite being a mere few nanometers thick, reduce the Casimir force by up to 14%. Spectroscopic data indicate a broad absorption band whose presence can be attributed to the mixing of electronic states of the underlying gold layer and those of the molecular film due to charge rearrangement. Using Lifshitz theory, it is calculated that the observed change in the Casimir force is consistent with the measured change in the effective dielectric properties. The nanometer‐sized molecules can penetrate small cavities, and cover any surface with high efficiency. This process seems compatible with current methods in the production of micro‐electromechanical systems (MEMS), which cannot be miniaturized beyond a certain size due to ‘stiction’ caused by the Casimir effect. This approach can therefore offer a practical solution for this problem.
Chemical Vapor Deposition Growth of Vertical Graphene/WSe2 Heterostructures with Interlayer Twists
Authors: Zhou Xiahong , Liu Mengya , Xue Xudong , Liu Shan , Yu Gui
Published: August 2024

The interlayer twist is a new degree of freedom for forming moiré superlattices in 2D vertical heterostructures, which is expected to play an important role in the emerging field of twistronics. The constructions of heterostructures by transfer and re‐stacking way have low efficiency and are prone to causing interface pollution. In this study, vertical molybdenum diselenide (WSe2)/graphene heterostructures with twisted angles are realized by using two‐step chemical vapor deposition (CVD) growth strategy. The WSe2/graphene heterostructures exhibit Raman and photoluminescence (PL) responses of both WSe2 and graphene. The PL quenching of WSe2 in the heterostructures manifests that direct CVD growth is conducive to the formation of a cleaner interlayer interface between WSe2 and graphene layers, resulting in better interlayer coupling. The adhesion and surface potential differences indicate the formation of hetero‐bilayer stacks. By analyzing the apparent growth orientations and crystal diffractions, vertical WSe2/graphene heterostructures exhibit a wide range of interlayer twisted angles (3.6–46.5°). The difference between the growth behavior with twisted angles and the typical epitaxial growth mode may originate from the heterogeneous nucleation, leading to interlayer twists of the hetero‐bilayers. These findings provide a facile protocol for the preparations of twisted hetero‐bilayers and a material system for fundamental research of twistronics.
Prominent Enhancement of Nonlinear Optical Absorption in SnS2 Nanosheets through Controllable Electrodeposition of Porphyrins
Authors: Ke Yuting , Li Hui , Humphrey Mark G. , Zhang Bin , Wang Jun , Liu Yanliang , Cong Ridong , Zhang Chi , Huang Zhipeng
Published: August 2024

Constructing organic‐inorganic composites presents a promising approach to enhance the nonlinear optical (NLO) response of materials. However, the effectiveness of this approach is impeded by the complexity of synthesis procedures and challenges in controlling the loading amount. Herein, a convenient and controllable electrodeposition method to non‐covalently combine SnS2 with tetracationic porphyrin (TMPyP) and the remarkable enhancement in NLO absorption of the resultant composite, are introduced. Through this method, a series of SnS2/TMPyP thin films are synthesized, allowing for the regulation of porphyrin loading via varying the deposition time. These resultant SnS2/TMPyP composites exhibit prominent nonlinear absorption coefficients when subjected to femtosecond laser irradiation of varying wavelengths. Notably, the compound with an electrochemical deposition time of 30 s achieves the largest third‐order nonlinear absorption coefficient of 6155 ± 243 cm GW−1 under 800 nm laser excitation, marking an 8.9‐fold increase compared to pristine SnS2 nanosheets. Based on the staggered energy level structure between TMPyP and SnS2, effective enhancement of charge separation/transfer is achieved by leveraging the unique π‐conjugated groups of porphyrins, which facilitates the NLO process and improves the NLO performance of films.
Subdiffraction‐Limited Motheye‐Like Metastructures Fabrication by Dual‐Beam Overexposure Methodology Enhancing Broadband Infrared Antireflective Application
Authors: Ran Peng , Wang Qingsong , Wang Jiong , Chen Wenbo , Zhao Zeyu , Ma Xiaoliang , Li Xiong , Pu Mingbo , Luo Xiangang
Published: August 2024

Materials possessing broadband antireflective properties benefit applications of military camouflage, photovoltaic devices, and highly transparent windows. In this work, large area, high throughput subdiffraction‐limited motheye‐like metastructures featuring broadband infrared (3–12 µm) antireflectivity are realized through dual‐beam overexposure shrinking strategy and subsequent controllable anisotropic reactive‐ion‐etching process. Both overexposure and overdevelopment processes severely controlled in conventional lithography processes, attribute significantly to improving linewidth resolution to <150 nm when photoresist thickness exceeding 500 nm, even to one micron. For antireflective application, the motheye profiles with customized anisotropic ratio (>3.27) and tunable taper‐angle range (>12.2°) are also realized by regulating the competition of directional ion bombardment and isotropic chemical etching in sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) plasma. The corresponding reflectivity is theoretically well‐simulated and experimentally validated after accounting for the tunable profiles and fractional volume coverage of motheye‐like structures. A low reflectivity <2.0% with the uniformity of ±4.8% and averaged to 1.2% across the overall spectrum of 3–12 µm are achieved. Implementing such efficient shrinking approach can possess huge potential in applications of military camouflage, photovoltaic devices, and highly transparent windows.
Self‐Calibrated Thermometer and Dynamic Anti‐Counterfeiting Based on YNbO4:Pr3+ Luminescent Material
Authors: Chen Yuqi , Zhao Fangyi , Qiang Kangrui , Mao Qinan , Yang Heyi , Zhu Yiwen , Liu Meijiao , Zhong Jiasong
Published: August 2024

Phosphors with multifunctional applications have attracted extensive research, especially in thermometer and anti‐counterfeiting fields. Herein, a series of Pr3+‐doped YNbO4 (YNO) phosphors with adjustable photoluminescence and red persistent luminescence (PersL) performances are developed. YNO host exhibits the blue self‐activated luminescence, and the different Pr3+ emission peaks possess various thermal stability properties due to the thermal quenching channel generated by the intervalence charge transfer state between Pr3+ and Nb5+ ions. Two kinds of fluorescence intensity ratio models with high absolute and relative sensitivities are realized to measure the temperature under dual‐wavelength excitation. Moreover, YNO:Pr3+ exhibits the red PersL with a duration of about 120 s upon ceasing the UV excitation light source. The fabricated YNO:Pr3+‐polydimethylsiloxane films display different luminescence patterns with the passage of time after turning off UV light, which can cleverly achieve dynamic conversion. These results demonstrate that YNO:Pr3+ phosphor has potential applications in dual‐wavelength excited thermometry and dynamic anti‐counterfeiting fields.
Recent Advances in Synthesis and Electrochemical Energy Storage Applications of Porous Carbon Materials
Authors: Ma Wenjie , Lai Xin , Yao Weitang
Published: August 2024

To achieve global energy transition goals, finding efficient and compatible energy storage electrode materials is crucial. Porous carbon materials (PCMs) are widely applied in energy storage due to their diverse size structures, rich active sites, adaptability to volume expansion, and superior ion and electron transport properties. However, the various issues and challenges faced by PCMs in different energy storage applications remain unclear. To address this, this paper systematically introduces common synthesis methods of PCMs and outlines their typical performance in energy storage applications. The aim is to provide researchers with comprehensive references to promote future optimization and improvement. In response to the need for enhancing the electrochemical properties of PCMs, this paper further discusses several common heteroatoms doping strategies, detailing their application characteristics, doping sources, and related research. In‐depth analysis and evaluation are also offered. Finally, a comprehensive analysis and summary of the challenges faced by PCMs in synthesis and energy storage applications, aiming to offer clear research directions and insights for the synthesis, design, and application research of PCMs in the field of energy storage, is provided.
Surface Modified Glucose‐Derived, Blood–Brain Barrier‐Crossing Nanospheres Dually Targets Macrophage and Cancer Cells for Effective In Situ Anti‐Glioma Effect
Authors: Jaggarapu Madhan Mohan Chandra Sekhar , Ansari Aasia , Jinka Sudhakar , Sridharan Kathyayani , Nimmu Narendra Varma , Mahadik Namita , Yakati Venu , Madhusudana Kuncha , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy , Kundu Tapas K. , Banerjee Rajkumar
Published: August 2024

Glucose‐derived carbon nanospheres (CSP), uniquely derived by hydrothermal condensation process, inherently cross blood–brain‐barrier (BBB) but distribute all over the brain. Albeit its potential to treat glioma as an effective drug delivery system, it is challenging to restrict drug‐associated CSP within the glioma region and reduce non‐specific side effects. Incidentally, gliomas moderately express sigma receptors (SR). Earlier, a cationic lipid‐conjugated neuropsychotic drug, haloperidol (H8) is developed with SR‐targetability and anticancer effect but with zero BBB‐crossing ability. In this study, the CSP surface is modified with H8 (CH8 nano‐conjugate) and dual targeting is achieved within glioma‐tumor microenvironment: 1) glioma cells and 2) pro‐proliferative M2 tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM), as both express SR. CH8‐treatment increases the survivability of orthotopic glioma‐tumor bearing mice and significantly reduces tumor burden in the glioma‐subcutaneous model. Further CH8‐surface is modified by combining the brain tumor drug, carmustine (CH8‐CRM). CH8‐CRM nano‐conjugate selectively enhances the survivability of orthotopic glioma‐carrying mice and reduces tumor aggressiveness significantly in comparison to other treatment groups. Lysates from CH8‐CRM‐treated tumor show upregulation of cleaved‐caspase 3, p53, but downregulation of pAkt. The combination treatment pronouncedly enhances the anti‐glioma effect of H8. Conclusively, CH8‐mediated dual‐targeting via SR within orthotopic glioma‐associated mice exemplifies the repurposing of neuropsychotic drugs for treating glioma.
Impact of Structural Strain on Performance of Halide Perovskite Solar Cells: A Combined DFT and SCAPS‐1D Analysis
Authors: Yadav Anjali P. , Bhojani Amit K. , Bhargava Kshitij , Singh Dheeraj K.
Published: August 2024

The halide perovskites have received extensive experimental and theoretical research interests for photovoltaic application. Most of the theoretical research is based on either material or device modeling approaches. However, literature is still deprived of studies based on the combination of these approaches, which are expected to yield predictions with superior accuracy. This report combines the first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) computations and device modeling to understand the impact of structural strain, generally induced during the crystallization phase of perovskite materials, on the photovoltaic performance of methyl ammonium lead halide (CH3NH3PbI3 or MAPbI3) based solar cell. The magnitude of strain varies in the range from +2% (tensile) to −2% (compressive). The impact of strain is analyzed in terms of the variations in band structure and values of optoelectronic parameters obtained using DFT calculations and further, their impact on performance metrics of solar cells is predicted using device simulations. The optimized cell efficiency under strain‐free conditions is 13% while it deteriorated to 1.6% under +2% tensile strain and improved to 22.3% under compressive strain. The simulation results underline the importance of engineering the structural strain during the crystallization of perovskite absorber material to achieve solar photovoltaic cells of high efficiency.
Cardiac Molecular Analysis Reveals Aging‐Associated Metabolic Alterations Promoting Glycosaminoglycans Accumulation via Hexosamine Biosynthetic Pathway
Authors: Grilo Luís F. , Zimmerman Kip D. , Puppala Sobha , Chan Jeannie , Huber Hillary F. , Li Ge , Jadhav Avinash Y. L. , Wang Benlian , Li Cun , Clarke Geoffrey D. , Register Thomas C. , Oliveira Paulo J. , Nathanielsz Peter W. , Olivier Michael , Pereira Susana P. , Cox Laura A.
Published: August 2024

Age is a prominent risk factor for cardiometabolic disease, often leading to heart structural and functional changes. However, precise molecular mechanisms underlying cardiac remodeling and dysfunction exclusively resulting from physiological aging remain elusive. Previous research demonstrated age‐related functional alterations in baboons, analogous to humans. The goal of this study is to identify early cardiac molecular alterations preceding functional adaptations, shedding light on the regulation of age‐associated changes. Unbiased transcriptomics of left ventricle samples are performed from female baboons aged 7.5–22.1 years (human equivalent ≈30–88 years). Weighted‐gene correlation network and pathway enrichment analyses are performed, with histological validation. Modules of transcripts negatively correlated with age implicated declined metabolism‐oxidative phosphorylation, tricarboxylic acid cycle, glycolysis, and fatty‐acid β‐oxidation. Transcripts positively correlated with age suggested a metabolic shift toward glucose‐dependent anabolic pathways, including hexosamine biosynthetic pathway (HBP). This shift is associated with increased glycosaminoglycan synthesis, modification, precursor synthesis via HBP, and extracellular matrix accumulation, verified histologically. Upregulated extracellular matrix‐induced signaling coincided with glycosaminoglycan accumulation, followed by cardiac hypertrophy‐related pathways. Overall, these findings revealed a transcriptional shift in metabolism favoring glycosaminoglycan accumulation through HBP before cardiac hypertrophy. Unveiling this metabolic shift provides potential targets for age‐related cardiac diseases, offering novel insights into early age‐related mechanisms.
Identification of a Novel ECM Remodeling Macrophage Subset in AKI to CKD Transition by Integrative Spatial and Single‐Cell Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Lin , Tang Tao‐Tao , Wang Bin , Wen Yi , Feng Ye , Yin Qing , Jiang Wei , Zhang Yue , Li Zuo‐Lin , Wu Min , Wu Qiu‐Li , Song Jing , Crowley Steven D. , Lan Hui‐Yao , Lv Lin‐Li , Liu Bi‐Cheng
Published: August 2024

The transition from acute kidney injury (AKI) to chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a critical clinical issue. Although previous studies have suggested macrophages as a key player in promoting inflammation and fibrosis during this transition, the heterogeneity and dynamic characterization of macrophages are still poorly understood. Here, we used integrated single‐cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomic to characterize the spatiotemporal heterogeneity of macrophages in murine AKI‐to‐CKD model of unilateral ischemia‐reperfusion injury. A marked increase in macrophage infiltration at day 1 was followed by a second peak at day 14 post AKI. Spatiotemporal profiling revealed that injured tubules and macrophages co‐localized early after AKI, whereas in late chronic stages had spatial proximity to fibroblasts. Further pseudotime analysis revealed two distinct lineages of macrophages in this transition: renal resident macrophages differentiated into the pro‐repair subsets, whereas infiltrating monocyte‐derived macrophages contributed to chronic inflammation and fibrosis. A novel macrophage subset, extracellular matrix remodeling‐associated macrophages (EAMs) originating from monocytes, linked to renal fibrogenesis and communicated with fibroblasts via insulin‐like growth factors (IGF) signalling. In sum, our study identified the spatiotemporal dynamics of macrophage heterogeneity with a unique subset of EAMs in AKI‐to‐CKD transition, which could be a potential therapeutic target for preventing CKD development.
Endothelial Cell‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles Promote Aberrant Neutrophil Trafficking and Subsequent Remote Lung Injury
Authors: Zi Shuang‐Feng , Wu Xiao‐Jing , Tang Ying , Liang Yun‐Peng , Liu Xu , Wang Lu , Li Song‐Li , Wu Chang‐De , Xu Jing‐Yuan , Liu Tao , Huang Wei , Xie Jian‐Feng , Liu Ling , Chao Jie , Qiu Hai‐Bo
Published: August 2024

The development of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in sepsis is associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. However, the molecular pathogenesis underlying sepsis‐induced ARDS remains elusive. Neutrophil heterogeneity and dysfunction contribute to uncontrolled inflammation in patients with ARDS. A specific subset of neutrophils undergoing reverse transendothelial migration (rTEM), which is characterized by an activated phenotype, is implicated in the systemic dissemination of inflammation. Using single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq), it identified functionally activated neutrophils exhibiting the rTEM phenotype in the lung of a sepsis mouse model using cecal ligation and puncture. The prevalence of neutrophils with the rTEM phenotype is elevated in the blood of patients with sepsis‐associated ARDS and is positively correlated with disease severity. Mechanically, scRNA‐seq and proteomic analys revealed that inflamed endothelial cell (EC) released extracellular vesicles (EVs) enriched in karyopherin subunit beta‐1 (KPNB1), promoting abluminal‐to‐luminal neutrophil rTEM. Additionally, EC‐derived EVs are elevated and positively correlated with the proportion of rTEM neutrophils in clinical sepsis. Collectively, EC‐derived EV is identified as a critical regulator of neutrophil rTEM, providing insights into the contribution of rTEM neutrophils to sepsis‐associated lung injury.
CircUGP2 Suppresses Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Progression via p53 Signaling Through Interacting With PURB to Regulate ADGRB1 Transcription and Sponging miR‐3191‐5p
Authors: Chen Rui Xiang , Liu Shuo Chen , Kan Xue Chun , Wang Yi Rui , Wang Ji Fei , Wang Tian Lin , Li Chang , Jiang Wang Jie , Chen Yan An Lan , Zhou Tao , Fan Shi Long , Chang Jiang , Xu Xiao , Shi Kuang Heng , Zhang Yao Dong , Wu Ming Yu , Yu Yue , Li Chang Xian , Li Xiang Cheng
Published: August 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is the second most common primary liver cancer and its prognosis remains poor. Although growing numbers of studies have verified the involvement of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in various cancer types, their specific functions in ICC remain elusive. Herein, a circRNA, circUGP2 is identified by circRNA sequencing, which is downregulated in ICC tissues and correlated with patients’ prognosis. Moreover, circUGP2 overexpression suppresses tumor progression in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, circUGP2 functions as a transcriptional co‐activator of PURB over the expression of ADGRB1. It can also upregulate ADGRB1 expression by sponging miR‐3191‐5p. As a result, ADGRB1 prevents MDM2‐mediated p53 polyubiquitination and thereby activates p53 signaling to inhibit ICC progression. Based on these findings, circUGP2 plasmid is encapsulated into a lipid nanoparticle (LNP) system, which has successfully targeted tumor site and shows superior anti‐tumor effects. In summary, the present study has identified the role of circUGP2 as a tumor suppressor in ICC through regulating ADGRB1/p53 axis, and the application of LNP provides a promising translational strategy for ICC treatment.
Irisin‐Encapsulated Mitochondria‐Targeted Biomimetic Nanotherapeutics for Alleviating Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Zhang Xia , Liang Lijia , Wang Fengxian , Jose Pedro A. , Chen Ken , Zeng Chunyu
Published: August 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is the sudden decrease in renal function that can be attributed to dysregulated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and impaired mitochondrial function. Irisin, a type I membrane protein secreted by skeletal muscles in response to physical activity, has been reported to alleviate kidney damage through regulation of mitochondrial biogenesis and oxidative metabolism. In this study, a macrophage membrane‐coated metal‐organic framework (MCM@MOF) is developed as a nanocarrier for encapsulating irisin to overcome the inherent characteristics of irisin, including a short circulation time, limited kidney‐targeting ability, and low membrane permeability. The engineered irisin‐mediated biomimetic nanotherapeutics have extended circulation time and enhanced targeting capability toward injured kidneys due to the preservation of macrophage membrane proteins. The irisin‐encapsulated biomimetic nanotherapeutics effectively mitigate acute ischemia‐reperfusion injury by protecting mitochondrial function and modulating SOD2 levels in renal tubular epithelial cells. The present study provides novel insights to advance the development of irisin as a potential therapeutic approach for AKI.
Schottky Diode Leakage Current Fluctuations: Electrostatically Induced Flexoelectricity in Silicon
Authors: Hurtado Carlos , MacGregor Melanie , Chen Kai , Ciampi Simone
Published: August 2024

Nearly four decades have passed since IBM scientists pioneered atomic force microscopy (AFM) by merging the principles of a scanning tunneling microscope with the features of a stylus profilometer. Today, electrical AFM modes are an indispensable asset within the semiconductor and nanotechnology industries, enabling the characterization and manipulation of electrical properties at the nanoscale. However, electrical AFM measurements suffer from reproducibility issues caused, for example, by surface contaminations, Joule heating, and hard‐to‐minimize tip drift and tilt. Using as experimental system nanoscale Schottky diodes assembled on oxide‐free silicon crystals of precisely defined surface chemistry, it is revealed that voltage‐dependent adhesion forces lead to significant rotation of the AFM platinum tip. The electrostatics‐driven tip rotation causes a strain gradient on the silicon surface, which induces a flexoelectric reverse bias term. This directional flexoelectric internal‐bias term adds to the external (instrumental) bias, causing both an increased diode leakage as well as a shift of the diode knee voltage to larger forward biases. These findings will aid the design and characterization of silicon‐based devices, especially those that are deliberately operated under large strain or shear, such as in emerging energy harvesting technologies including Schottky‐based triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs).
LNMAC Promotes Cervical Squamous Cell Carcinoma Lymphatic Metastasis via Epigenetic Regulation of FGF2‐Induced Lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Zhang Chunyu , Yuan Li , Wen Weijia , Shao Caixia , Liao Yuandong , Jia Yan , Zhao Xueyuan , Liao Yan , Xu Dingze , Chen Linna , Yang Guofen , Jiang Hongye , Wang Wei , Yao Shuzhong
Published: August 2024

The lymph node is the most common site of distant metastasis of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC), which elicits dismal prognosis and limited efficiency for treatment. Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying CSCC lymphatic metastasis would provide potential therapeutic strategies for nodal metastatic of CSCC. Here, based on in vivo lymphatic metastasis screening model, a circular RNA is identified that is termed as lymph node metastasis associated circRNA (LNMAC), is markedly upregulated in lymphatic metastatic CSCC and correlated with lymph node metastasis. Overexpression of LNMAC dramatically augments the metastatic capability of CSCC cells to the lymph node via inducing lymphangiogenesis. Mechanistically, LNMAC epigenetically upregulates fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) expression by directly associating with histone acacetylase 1 (HDAC1), preventing Importin α6/8‐mediated nuclear translocation of HDAC1 and eliciting histone H3K27ac‐induced FGF2 transcriptional activation. Treatment with 3F12E7, an anti‐FGF2 monoclonal antibody, effectively inhibits LNMAC‐induced CSCC lymphatic metastasis. Taken together, these findings indicate that LNMAC plays a crucial role in FGF2‐mediated lymphangiogenesis and lymphatic metastasis, highlighting that LNMAC might be a therapeutic target for lymph node metastasis in CSCC patients.