bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ethyl Thioglycolate Assisted Multifunctional Surface Modulation for Efficient and Stable Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Feng , Song Jiaxing , Ye Jingchuan , Cao Jieying , Yin Xinxing , Su Zhen , Jin Yingzhi , Hu Lin , Zuilhof Han , Li Zaifang , Yan Wensheng , Gao Feng
Published: June 2024

As the core component of sandwich‐like perovskite solar cells (PSCs), the quality of perovskite layer is a challenge for further progress in PSCs due to the unfavorable defects and uncontrollable crystallization. Here, a surface post‐treatment strategy employing ethyl thioglycolate (ET) as ligand molecule is developed for property manipulation of perovskite films. ET can lower surface energy of perovskite facets and induces secondary growth of grains, giving films with higher crystallinity and lower defect density. Meanwhile, both carbonyl and sulfhydryl in ET can bind to the Pb2+, thus forming bidentate anchoring on the surface for defect passivation. Besides, the perovskite/ET/C60 interface presents improved charge transfer owing to the well‐aligned energy levels. Consequently, the power‐conversion‐efficiency (PCE) is boosted to 22.42% and 23.56% (certified 23.29%) for the FA0.85Cs0.15Pb(I0.95Br0.05)3 and FA0.9MA0.05Cs0.05Pb(I0.95Br0.05)3 PSCs, respectively, and the FA0.85Cs0.15Pb(I0.95Br0.05)3‐based PSC with a larger area (1.03 cm2) delivers a PCE of 20.01%. Importantly, ET demonstrates effective management of I2 and PbI2, thereby preventing accelerated degradation and lead leakage of devices. Thanks to the multiple effects of ET, the resulting devices exhibit significantly enhanced ambient stability over a course of 800 h, and a thermal stability of over 1500 h while maintaining 80.4% of its original efficiency.
Lattice Strain with Stabilized Oxygen Vacancies Boosts Ceria for Robust Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution Outperforming Benchmark Pt
Authors: Liu Xiaojing , Wei Shuaichong , Cao Shuyi , Zhang Yongguang , Xue Wei , Wang Yanji , Liu Guihua , Li Jingde
Published: June 2024

Earth‐abundant metal oxides are usually considered as stable but catalytically inert toward hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) due to their unfavorable hydrogen intermediate adsorption performance. Herein, a heavy rare earth (Y) and transition metal (Co) dual‐doping induced lattice strain and oxygen vacancy stabilization strategy is proposed to boost CeO2 toward robust alkaline HER. The induced lattice compression and increased oxygen vacancy (Ov) concentration in CeO2 synergistically improve the water dissociation on Ov sites and sequential hydrogen adsorption at activated Ov‐neighboring sites, leading to significantly enhanced HER kinetics. Meanwhile, Y doping offers stabilization effect on Ov by its stronger Y─O bonding over Ce─O, which endows the catalyst with excellent stability. The Y,Co‐CeO2 electrocatalyst exhibits an ultra‐low HER overpotential (27 mV at 10 mA cm−2) and Tafel slope (48 mV dec−1), outperforming the benchmark Pt electrocatalyst. Moreover, the anion exchange membrane water electrolyzer incorporated with Y,Co‐CeO2 achieves excellent stability of 500 h under 600 mA cm−2. This synergistic lattice strain and oxygen vacancy stabilization strategy sheds new light on the rational development of efficient and stable oxide‐based HER electrocatalysts.
Advanced Design and Manufacturing Approaches for Structures with Enhanced Thermal Management Performance: A Review
Authors: Sun Qidong , Zhi Geng , Zhou Sheng , Dong Xu , Shen Qianye , Tao Ran , Qi Junfeng
Published: June 2024

Advanced design methods and manufacturing techniques are crucial for developing thermal management structures, essential for the efficient operation of complex equipment. This study provides a thorough review of design methodologies and advanced manufacturing technologies for thermal management materials and structures. It identifies key challenges and critically evaluates the integration of innovative design principles, such as biomimicry and topology optimization, into thermal management solutions. The analysis delves into the evolution of design theories and preparation techniques, with a specific focus on modern needs and research directions, particularly highlighting components fabricated using additive manufacturing and their effectiveness in meeting advanced thermal management requirements. Current research focuses on designing structures tailored to various cooling methods, including air‐cooling, liquid‐cooling, heat exchanger cooling, and heat pipe cooling. These designs utilize phase change materials, electrocaloric cooling, and thermoelectric cooling materials to achieve optimal thermal management performance. Additionally, emerging innovations like solid‐liquid mixed heat transfer and the elastocaloric effect are garnering increased interest. Enhancing the design of thermal management structures through rigorous numerical simulations is critical for improving engineering applicability. However, overcoming challenges related to the commercialization and practical utilization of these advanced structures remains a pressing need.
Engineered Graphene Material Improves the Performance of Intraneural Peripheral Nerve Electrodes
Authors: Rodríguez‐Meana Bruno , del Valle Jaume , Viana Damià , Walston Steven T. , Ria Nicola , Masvidal‐Codina Eduard , Garrido Jose A. , Navarro Xavier
Published: June 2024

Limb neuroprostheses aim to restore motor and sensory functions in amputated or severely nerve‐injured patients. These devices use neural interfaces to record and stimulate nerve action potentials, creating a bidirectional connection with the nervous system. Most neural interfaces are based on standard metal microelectrodes. In this work, a new generation of neural interfaces which replaces metals with engineered graphene, called EGNITE, is tested. In vitro and in vivo experiments are conducted to assess EGNITE biocompatibility. In vitro tests show that EGNITE does not impact cell viability. In vivo, no significant functional decrease or harmful effects are observed. Furthermore, the foreign body reaction to the intraneural implant is similar compared to other materials previously used in neural interfaces. Regarding functionality, EGNITE devices are able to stimulate nerve fascicles, during two months of implant, producing selective muscle activation with about three times less current compared to larger microelectrodes of standard materials. CNAP elicited by electrical stimuli and ENG evoked by mechanical stimuli are recorded with high resolution but are more affected by decreased functionality over time. This work constitutes further proof that graphene‐derived materials, and specifically EGNITE, is a promising conductive material of neural electrodes for advanced neuroprostheses.
Prospects and Strategies for Single‐Crystal NCM Materials to Solve All‐Solid‐State Battery Cathode Interface Problems
Authors: Bai Xiaoyu , Xie Fang , Zhang Ziyang , Cao Minglei , Wang Qin , Wang Shiwen , Liu Chenyu , Su Xin , Lin Zhan , Cui Guanglei
Published: June 2024

In the ongoing quest to develop lithium‐ion batteries with superior capacity and enhanced safety, the focus has shifted toward all‐solid‐state batteries (SSBs) and nickel‐rich cathode materials. Despite their promise, these technologies face significant interface challenges, notably poor contact and low ion transport efficiency, leading to substantial stability issues. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of both the advantages and the challenges associated with all‐solid‐state batteries. In addition, it discusses the benefits of single‐crystal application in SSBs, in terms of their kinetic performance, mechanical properties, and stability. The review concludes by proposing various strategies to optimize single‐crystal technologies, targeting the development of efficient nickel‐rich single‐crystal materials for use in all‐solid‐state batteries. These approaches offer the potential to address the core challenges currently faced by SSBs and pave the way for the next generation of high‐performance batteries.
A Hydridoaluminate Additive Producing a Protective Coating on Ni‐Rich Cathode Materials in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Forero‐Saboya Juan , Moiseev Ivan A. , Vlara Marina‐Lamprini , Foix Dominique , Deschamps Michael , Abakumov Artem M. , Tarascon Jean‐Marie , Mariyappan Sathiya
Published: June 2024

To enhance the energy density of Li‐ion batteries, high‐capacity and high‐voltage cathode materials are needed. Recently, Ni‐rich layered oxides have attracted attention as they can offer ≈200 mAh g−1 when cycled up to 4.3 V. However, cycling these materials in their full capacity range often leads to excessive reactivity with the electrolyte, resulting in particle cracking, transition metal dissolution, and oxygen loss. In this study, the use of lithium hydridoaluminates as electrolyte additives is explored for lithium‐ion batteries based on nickel‐rich cathode materials. Being mild reducing agents, these additives act as HF scavengers, avoiding transition metal dissolution from the cathode. Additionally, their oxidation results in the formation of an Al‐rich protective layer on the cathode, which dampens the surface reactivity, preventing surface reconstruction and impedance build‐up. This study further stresses the important role of the cathode‐electrolyte interface phenomena on the capacity degradation of Ni‐rich cathode materials and provides a novel avenue for controlling this reactivity, thus extending their cycling life.
Sulfur source effects on soil, vegetation indices, biomass, and uptake in potato
Authors: Sharma Ayush K. , Sandhu Amanpreet Kaur , Sidhu Simranpreet Kaur , Riley Simon , Griffin Winniefred , de Sa Leitão Diego Arruda Huggins , Zotarelli Lincoln , Sharma Lakesh K.
Published: June 2024

Sulfur (S) is necessary for amino acid production, disease resistance, protein synthesis, and nitrogen assimilation in plants. We tested the performance of three S sources (magnesium sulfate [EPTOP], gypsum, and ammonium sulfate [AS]) at two different rates (45 and 90 kg S ha−1) on soil S availability, vegetative indices (VIs), above‐ and belowground biomass (BGB), and potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) S uptake. For VIs such as normalized difference vegetative index, normalized difference red‐edge index, and chlorophyll content, the maximum values were reported when gypsum and EPTOP were applied compared to AS. These differences were decreased later in the season. Significant interaction effects were reported among sites, sampling events, and sites and S sources for aboveground biomass (AGB). Similar trends were reported for the BGB, where the significant interaction effect was reported among the S sources and sampling event and S sources and sites. The AGB S uptake was affected due to the sites and sampling event. However, BGB S uptake was influenced by the interactive effect of S sources, sites, and sampling events. The VIs did not have a significant association between soil S concentration and AGB S uptake. It was found that the field history had a notable effect on the crop responses to variable S sources. In conclusion, applying S rates and sources has distinct responses, which depend on soil history and chemical properties, and that should be considered when making choices for S application in potatoes.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Synthesis of 1‐Alkyl‐5‐Arylpyrazoles: The Auto‐Tandem Catalysis for C−C Bond Cleavage/Heck Arylation
Authors: Fujioka Hiroki , Yasui Motohiro , Hamada Shohei , Takeda Norihiko , Kobayashi Yusuke , Furuta Takumi , Ueda Masafumi
Published: June 2024

The regioselective synthesis of 1‐alkyl‐5‐arylpyrazoles, which are potential drug candidates, has been difficult to achieve thus far. In this study, we developed an auto‐tandem Pd‐catalyzed C−C bond cleavage/Heck arylation of N‐cyclopropylhydrazones followed by cycloisomerization to afford diverse 1‐alkyl‐5‐arylpyrazoles. This step‐economical synthesis involves the cleavage of two C−H bonds and one C−C bond as well as the incorporation of directing groups. The identification of the reaction intermediates indicated an auto‐tandem catalytic pathway. The further transformation of products to 1,4,5‐substituted pyrazole and functional group transformations were carried out.
Amphiphilic Polymer Electrolyte Blocking Lattice Oxygen Evolution from High‐Voltage Nickel‐rich Cathodes for Ultra‐Thermal Stabile Batteries
Authors: Chen Jialiang , Lin Yan , Li Qiang , Ren Hao , Zhang Linchen , Sun Yuanyuan , Zhang Siyu , Shang Xinchao , Zhou Weidong , Wu Mingbo , Li Zhongtao
Published: June 2024

Ni‐rich cathodes have been intensively adopted in Li‐ion batteries to pursuit high energy density, which still suffering irreversible degradation at high voltage. Some unstable lattice O2− species in Ni‐rich cathodes would be oxidized to singlet oxygen 1O2 and released at high volt, which lead to irreversible phase transfer from the layered rhombohedral (R) phase to a spinel‐like (S) phase. To overcome the issue, the amphiphilic copolymers (UMA‐Fx) electrolyte were prepared by linking hydrophobic C−F side chains with hydrophilic subunits, which could self‐assemble on Ni‐rich cathode surface and convert to stable cathode–electrolyte interphase layer. Thereafter, the oxygen releasing of polymer coated cathode was obviously depressed and substituted by the Co oxidation (Co3+→Co4+) at high volt (>4.2 V), which could suppressed irreversible phase transfer and improve cycling stability. Moreover, the amphiphilic polymer electrolyte was also stable with Li anode and had high ion conductivity. Therefore, the NCM811//UMA‐F6//Li pouch cell exhibited outstanding energy density (362.97 Wh/kg) and durability (cycled 200 times at 4.7 V), which could be stalely cycled even at 120°C without short circuits or explosions.
Collective and Diverted Total Synthesis of the Strasseriolides: A Family of Macrolides Endowed with Potent Antiplasmodial and Antitrypanosomal Activity
Authors: Isak Daniel , Schwartz Leyah A. , Schulthoff Saskia , Pérez‐Moreno Guiomar , Bosch‐Navarrete Cristina , González‐Pacanowska Dolores , Fürstner Alois
Published: June 2024

The strasseriolide macrolides show promising in vitro and in vivo activities against P. falciparum and T. cruzi, the parasites causing malaria and Chagas disease, respectively. However, the as yet poor understanding of structure/activity relationships and the fact that one family member proved systemically toxic for unknown reasons render a more detailed assessment of these potential lead compounds difficult. To help overcome these issues, a collective total synthesis was devised. The key steps consisted of a ring closing alkyne metathesis (RCAM) reaction to forge a common macrocyclic intermediate followed by a hydroxy‐directed ruthenium catalyzed trans‐hydrostannation of the propargyl alcohol site thus formed. The resulting alkenyltin derivative served as the central node of the synthesis blueprint, which could be elaborated into the natural products themselves as well as into a set of non‐natural analogues according to the concept of diverted total synthesis. The recorded biological data confirmed the potency of the compounds and showed the lack of any noticeable cytotoxicity. The “northern” allylic alcohol subunit was recognized as an integral part of the pharmacophore, yet it provides opportunities for chemical modification.
Interpretable Data‐Driven Descriptors for Establishing the Structure‐Activity Relationship of Metal–Organic Frameworks Toward Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Zhou Jian , Xu Liangliang , Gai Huiyu , Xu Ning , Ren Zhichu , Hou Xianbiao , Chen Zongkun , Han Zhongkang , Sarker Debalaya , Levchenko Sergey V. , Huang Minghua
Published: June 2024

The development of readily accessible and interpretable descriptors is pivotal yet challenging in the rational design of metal–organic framework (MOF) catalysts. This study presents a straightforward and physically interpretable activity descriptor for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER), derived from a dataset of bimetallic Ni‐based MOFs. Through an artificial‐intelligence (AI) data‐mining subgroup discovery (SGD) approach, a combination of the d‐band center and number of missing electrons in eg states of Ni, as well as the first ionization energy and number of electrons in eg states of the substituents, is revealed as a gene of a superior OER catalyst. The found descriptor, obtained from the AI analysis of a dataset of MOFs containing 3–5d transition metals and 13 organic linkers, has been demonstrated to facilitate in‐depth understanding of structure–activity relationship at the molecular orbital level. The descriptor is validated experimentally for 11 Ni‐based MOFs. Combining SGD with physical insights and experimental verification, our work offers a highly efficient approach for screening MOF‐based OER catalysts, simultaneously providing comprehensive understanding of the catalytic mechanism.
Production and comprehensive characterization of PVA/chitosan transdermal composite mats loaded with bioactive curcumin; evaluation of its release kinetics, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and biocompatibility features
Authors: Ciftci Fatih , Özarslan Ali Can , Evcimen Duygulu Nilüfer
Published: June 2024

Recently, researchers have shown increasing interest in incorporating bioactive substances with therapeutic properties into fiber‐structured mat biomaterials, which are favored as tissue scaffolds for wound healing applications. In this study, curcumin (Cur)‐loaded polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/chitosan (CS) composite mats were produced using the electrospinning method and followed by the freeze‐drying method. Scanning electron microscope images proved the homogeneous structure of the composite mats, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis showed that the Cur‐loaded composite mats were successfully produced. The antibacterial activity of Cur‐loaded PVA/CS composite mats was evaluated against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, and the results showed that the antibacterial activity of the composite mats increased with the addition of Cur. Furthermore, the antioxidant test, release kinetics tests, and in vitro biocompatibility studies such as cytotoxicity, staining, and scratch assay of Cur‐loaded PVA/CS composite mats were carried out. The results showed that adding Cur enhanced the bioactivity of PVA10/CS10 composite mats. Further, the biocompatibility findings indicated that 10Cur‐PVA10/CS10 exhibited the highest viability value throughout all incubation periods compared with the other samples. Moreover, the highest rate of scratch closure on the 10Cur‐PVA/10/CS10 composite mats was observed at the end of 24 h compared with the other composite mats. These findings indicate that the Cur‐loaded PVA10/CS10 composite mats significantly positively impact cell migration and wound healing, making them a promising candidate as transdermal composite mats for tissue engineering and wound care applications.
Ultra‐Inclined Nanocolumnar ZnO Films Sputtered Using a Novel Masking Configuration Providing Controlled and Restricted Oblique Angle Deposition for Enhanced Sensing Platforms
Authors: Pelayo Garcia M. , Gibson D. , McAughey K. L. , Hughes D.A. , García Núñez C.
Published: June 2024

Oblique angle deposition (OAD) of inclined thin films is mainly performed using electron beam evaporation due to its accurate point source control over the incoming evaporated flux angle α, leading to thin films with a nanocolumnar inclination angle β. However, the utilization of magnetron sputtering (MS) with an extended source for OAD is not extensively studied and reported. This work presents a thorough analysis of ZnO inclined thin films deposited by a novel restricted DC‐reactive MS‐OAD technique. OAD‐inclined films are deposited at α ranged 60°‐88°, where incoming flux is restricted using a patented masking configuration enabling tunable control of deposited nanocolumn angular range. The described technique provides accurate control over the resulting β (99.5% reproducibility), allowing demonstrated βmaxof 47.3°, close to theoretical limits predicted for ZnO. The approach discussed here probes enhanced control of β comparable to that observed in evaporation, however using an extended source, resulting in high‐quality reproducible nanocolumnar‐inclined films. The mentioned improvements result from the exploration of operational parameters such as magnetron power, working pressure, and chamber temperature, as well as the design of the restricting configuration and substrate holders and their influence on the resulting inclined thin film crystallinity, and morphology.
Coumarin‐modified ruthenium complexes: Synthesis, characterization, and antiproliferative activity against human cancer cells
Authors: Jakopec Silvio , Hamzic Lejla F. , Bočkor Luka , Car Iris , Perić Berislav , Kirin Srećko I. , Sedić Mirela , Raić‐Malić Silvana
Published: June 2024

Among ruthenium complexes studied as anticancer metallodrugs, NKP‐1339, NAMI‐A, RM175, and RAPTA‐C have already entered clinical trials due to their potent antitumor activity demonstrated in preclinical studies and reduced toxicity in comparison with platinum drugs. Considering the advantages of ruthenium‐based anticancer drugs and the cytostatic activity of organometallic complexes with triazole‐ and coumarin‐derived ligands, we set out to synthesize Ru(II) complexes of coumarin‐1,2,3,‐triazole hybrids (L) with the general formula [Ru(L)(p‐cymene)(Cl)]ClO4. The molecular structure of the complex [Ru(2a)(p‐cymene)(Cl)]ClO4 (2aRu) was determined by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, which confirmed the coordination of the ligand to the central ruthenium(II) cation by bidentate mode of coordination. Coordination with Ru(II) resulted in the enhancement of cytostatic activity in HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells and PANC‐1 pancreatic cancer cells. Coumarin derivative 2a positively regulated the expression and activity of c‐Myc and NPM1 in RKO colon carcinoma cells, while the Ru(II) half‐sandwich complex 2cRu induced downregulation of AKT and ERK signaling in PANC‐1 cells concomitant with reduced intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species. Altogether, our findings indicated that coumarin‐modified half‐sandwich Ru(II) complexes held potential as anticancer agents against gastrointestinal malignancies.
Efficient Near‐Infrared Fluorophores Based on Cyanostyrene Derivatives for Two‐Photon Fluorescence Bioimaging
Authors: Ren Xue , Liu Yanhong , Zhang Chao , Wu Zhiyuan , Shi Haotian , Zhang Xiyun , Zhang Song , Xu Bin , Tian Huimin , Tian Wenjing , Wang Yulin
Published: June 2024

Organic fluorescent materials with red/near‐infrared (NIR) emission are highly promising for use in biotechnology due to their exceptional advantages. However, traditional red/NIR fluorophores often exhibit weak emission at high concentrations or in an aggregated state due to the aggregate‐caused quenching effect, which severely limits their applicability in biological imaging. To address this challenge, we developed a series of cyanostyrene derivatives with aggregation‐induced emission characteristics, including 2,3‐Bis‐(4‐styryl‐phenyl)‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DPB), 2,3‐Bis‐{4‐[2‐(4‐methoxy‐ phenyl)‐vinyl]‐phenyl}‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DOB), 2,3‐Bis‐{4‐[2‐(4‐diphenylamino‐ phenyl)‐vinyl]‐phenyl}‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DTB), and 2,3‐Bis‐[4‐(2‐{4‐[phenyl‐ (4‐triphenylvinyl‐phenyl)‐amino]‐phenyl}‐vinyl)‐ phenyl]‐but‐2‐enedinitrile (DTTB). Notably, these compounds exhibited intense solid state fluorescence owing to AIE effect, especially DTTB shows NIR emission with high solid state quantum efficiency (712 nm, ΦF=14.2 %). Then we prepared DTTB@PS‐PEG NPs nanoparticles by encapsulating DTTB with the amphiphilic polymer polystyrene‐polyethylene glycol (PS‐PEG). Importantly, DTTB@PS‐PEG NPs exhibited highly efficient NIR luminescence (ΦF=28.7 %) and a large two‐photon absorption cross‐section (1900 GM) under 800 nm laser excitation. The bright two‐photon fluorescence of DTTB@PS‐PEG indicated that it can be a highly promising candidate for two‐photon fluorescence probe. Therefore, this work provides valuable insights for the design of highly efficient and NIR‐emitting two‐photon fluorescent probes.
The last straw: Exploring COVID‐19 anxiety, bullying victimization, and teacher emotional violence in Chinese adolescents' perpetrators cyberbullying
Authors: Zhang Yuchi , Ding Min , Zhou Ping
Published: June 2024

The positive relationship between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19)‐related psychological distress and adolescents' cyberbullying behaviours has garnered attention. Although the global COVID‐19 pandemic has ended, examining adolescents' cyberbullying behaviours in the context of this disaster and revealing the potential complex interaction effects of COVID‐19 anxiety and peer and teacher factors on adolescents' cyberbullying behaviours, especially in non‐Western cultural contexts, hold inspirational value for developing more effective prevention or intervention programs for future disasters. We examined the moderation effects of bullying victimization and teachers' emotional violence (TEV) on the association between COVID‐19 anxiety and cyberbullying among adolescents in China. Data were collected from a recruited sample of 514 junior high school students in Beijing, China. Adolescent anxiety about COVID‐19 was positively correlated with cyberbullying. The moderating effects of the TEV and bullying victimization on the association between COVID‐19 anxiety and cyberbullying among adolescents were significant. The positive link between COVID‐19 anxiety and cyberbullying was stronger among adolescents with high bullying victimization and TEV. This study offers preliminary evidence on the risk of TEV and bullying victimization in the association between COVID‐19 anxiety and cyberbullying in Eastern cultures. Please refer to the Supplementary Material section to find this article's Community and Social Impact Statement.
Functional and nutritional properties of infrared‐ and microwave heat‐moisture‐treated sorghum meals
Authors: Baah Rose Otema , Duodu Kwaku‐Gyebi , Taylor John Reginald Nuttal , Emmambux Mohammad Naushad
Published: June 2024

Background and Objectives

Starch modification using heat‐moisture treatment (HMT) has been proven to influence starch functionality and nutritional properties as it can increase resistant starch content and reduce the glycemic index (GI). This study aims to determine the nutritional and functional properties of infrared (IR)‐ and microwave (MW) heat‐moisture‐treated (HMT) white and red non‐tannin, and red tannin sorghum meals with the aim of further reducing the estimated GI.

Findings

All treated meals had significantly (p < .05) lower pasting peak viscosity than the untreated samples, possibly due to aggregate formation observed under the light microscope, restricting the starch from swelling to form a high‐viscosity paste. There was a decrease in the percentage of starch hydrolysis between the sorghum types and a further decrease after HMT treatment. A significant difference was observed in the protein digestibility between the sorghum types, but not between the treatments.

Conclusion

HMT with IR and MW further reduced the starch digestibility, possibly because of changes in the starch molecular configuration.

Significance and Novelty

This study suggests that the changes in the starch functionality and nutritional properties of the HMT‐treated sorghum meals can potentially be useful in the development of lower‐GI sorghum foods. The results also differentiate the characteristics of sorghum types.
Acute onset nitrofurantoin‐induced autoimmune hepatitis after urinary tract infection treatment
Authors: Chaudhary Ammad Javaid , Khan Muhammad Zarrar , Sohail Abdullah , Zaidi Syed Murtaza Haider , Denha Eric , Venkat Deepak
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case signifies the importance of recognizing DIAIH within the context of antibiotic therapy, especially in older adults and even shortly after common drug exposures for treating UTI.

Various drugs can induce immune‐mediated liver damage and in rare instances may lead to autoimmune hepatitis. Here we report an 84‐year‐old woman who developed autoimmune hepatitis less than 3 weeks after treatment for urinary tract infection with the antibiotic nitrofurantoin. She presented with jaundice, right upper quadrant abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. In the absence of a history of an autoimmune disorder or elevated liver enzymes in the past; elevated liver enzymes after a short course of Nitrofurantoin and the presence of smooth muscle antibodies strongly suggested autoimmune hepatitis, which was confirmed through biopsy sample analysis. The patient scored 7 points on the Naranjo adverse reaction probability scale. The patient's rapid recovery within 1 month of prednisone therapy supports the association of liver damage with nitrofurantoin use.
Catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome: challenging case and importance of multidisciplinary evaluation and management
Authors: Sorathia Sharmeen , Arockiam Aro Daniela , Haroun Elio , Khurana Rishabh , Hall Alexandra , McCarthy Meghann , Shastri Rupal K. , Sawaf Hanny , McCrae Keith R. , Jellis Christine L. , Wang Tom Kai Ming
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Our case depicts a challenging diagnosis of catastrophic antiphospholipid syndrome in a young patient with a heterogenous presentation with extensive clinical course, a wide range of investigations, including multimodality imaging, and multidisciplinary expertise, to initiate prompt treatment addressing multiorgan thrombotic injury.
Primary synovial sarcoma in anal canal: Report of a very rare case
Authors: Saadaat Ramin , Esmat Esmatullah , Abdul‐Ghafar Jamshid , Ullah Saif , Hanifi Ahmed Nasir , Khairy Abdul Latif , Zahier Ahmed Shekib , Haidary Ahmed Maseh , Noor Sarah
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Extensive studies are required to understand the behavior as well as prognosis of SS in the colorectal region. IHC staining is essential for the accurate diagnosis when a lesion is encountered at an unusual site.
The coincidence of beta‐thalassemia and hereditary spherocytosis: A case report and literature review
Authors: Habibzadeh Sana , Einakchi Majid , Kalantari Mohammad Ebrahim , Forouhar Farnood , Ma'souminejad Arefeh
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

When a person has both HS and beta‐thalassemia, their clinical symptoms tend to be less severe. This is because these two conditions have contrasting features. If the clinical symptoms and laboratory results cannot be solely attributed to hemolytic anemia, it is important to consider the possibility of another form of hemolytic anemia coexisting.

We present a 26‐year‐old woman who has been experiencing abdominal pain, jaundice, and anemia for the past 15 years. Initially, she was diagnosed with gallstones and splenomegaly, but after a thorough hematology examination conducted by expert colleagues, it was discovered that she had both beta‐thalassemia and hereditary spherocytosis. The osmotic fragility test confirmed this diagnosis. The patient was advised to undergo both splenectomy and cholecystectomy procedures. It is worth noting that the co‐occurrence of these two conditions is rare.
Dyke‐Davidoff‐Masson syndrome—A rare cause of recurrent seizures in adulthood
Authors: Afrim Patricia , Ofori Emmanuel , Owusu‐Danso Nana Akosua , Gyamfi Rexford Adu , Owusua Denise Akua , Gyabaah Solomon , Sarfo Fred Stephen
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

It is important to consider DDMS as a differential diagnosis in any patient with early childhood onset of epilepsy. Early diagnosis and optimal management are key to reducing the disabling effect of DDMS.
Intrarenal epidermoid cyst mimicking a cystic renal cell carcinoma: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Khorraminejad‐Shirazi Mohammadhossein , Nabavizadeh Seyed Ali , Shirazi Yeganeh Babak , Ahmadifar Maryam , Salehipour Mehdi , Jafari Seyed Hamed , Omidifar Navid
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the diagnostic pitfalls that can occur when evaluating complex cystic renal masses. Distinguishing epidermoid cysts from renal cell carcinoma is difficult but imperative to guide conservative management when appropriate, avoiding unnecessary nephrectomy.

Renal epidermoid cysts are extremely rare, with only 12 cases reported in the literature. Their radiographic features often resemble cystic renal cell carcinoma, frequently prompting unnecessary nephrectomy. A 64‐year‐old man with a history of nephrolithiasis presented with left flank pain and hematuria. Imaging revealed a complex cystic renal mass suspicious for renal cell carcinoma. Following left radical nephrectomy, histopathology examination revealed a benign epidermoid cyst. Renal presentation of epidermoid cyst poses unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Possible pathogenesis includes ectopic epidermal implantation during embryogenesis or squamous metaplasia following chronic irritation or deficiency. Radiographic distinction from concerning entities like renal cell carcinoma is difficult but imperative to avoid extensive surgery. This case highlights the diagnostic pitfalls and management considerations for renal epidermoid cysts. Additional study of clinical and imaging factors that distinguish epidermoid cysts from renal cell carcinoma can guide conservative management when appropriate, avoiding unnecessary nephrectomy for benign disease.
Ectopic pregnancy with full implantation of the gestational sac in the caesarean section scar managed successfully with laparotomy
Authors: Machairiotis Nikolaos , Stavros Sofoklis , Antonakopoulos Nikolaos , Vrachnis Dionysios , Potiris Anastasios , Fotiou Alexandros , Loukas Nikolaos , Drakakis Peter , Vrachnis Nikolaos
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Caesarean scar pregnancy represents one of the rarest locations of ectopic pregnancies. It occurs when the blastocyst is implanted in a scar from a previous caesarean section. A dramatic increase of its prevalence has been observed for the last decades, reaching about 21% globally. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to avoid maternal morbidity and mortality. Our case presents the characteristic appearance of a caesarean scar pregnancy with full implantation of the gestational sac in the scar, which was managed successfully with laparotomy.
Native State Stabilization of Amyloidogenic Proteins by Kinetic Stabilizers: Inhibition of Protein Aggregation and Clinical Relevance
Authors: Priyanka  , Raymandal Bitta , Mondal Santanu
Published: June 2024

Proteinopathies or amyloidoses are a group of life‐threatening disorders that result from misfolding of proteins and aggregation into toxic insoluble amyloid aggregates. Amyloid aggregates have low clearance from the body due to the insoluble nature, leading to their deposition in various organs and consequent organ dysfunction. While amyloid deposition in the central nervous system leads to neurodegenerative diseases that mostly cause dementia and difficulty in movement, several other organs, including heart, liver and kidney are also affected by systemic amyloidoses. Regardless of the site of amyloid deposition, misfolding and structural alteration of the precursor proteins play the central role in amyloid formation. Kinetic stabilizers are an emerging class of drugs, which act like pharmacological chaperones to stabilize the native state structure of amyloidogenic proteins and to increase the activation energy barrier that is required for adopting a misfolded structure or conformation, ultimately leading to the inhibition of protein aggregation. In this review, we discuss the kinetic stabilizers that stabilize the native quaternary structure of transthyretin, immunoglobulin light chain and superoxide dismutase 1 that cause transthyretin amyloidoses, light chain amyloidosis and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, respectively.
Advances in Clinical Therapies for Huntington's Disease and the Promise of Multi‐Targeted/Functional Drugs Based on Clinicaltrials.gov
Authors: Huang Chunhui , Zheng Xiao , Yan Sen , Zhang Zaijun
Published: June 2024

Huntington's disease (HD) is a dominantly inherited neurodegenerative disorder characterized by a triad of motor, cognitive, and psychiatric problems. Caused by CAG repeat expansion in the huntingtin gene (HTT), the disease involves a complex network of pathogenic mechanisms, including synaptic dysfunction, impaired autophagy, neuroinflammation, oxidative damage, mitochondrial dysfunction, and extrasynaptic excitotoxicity. Although current therapies targeting the pathogenesis of HD primarily aim to reduce mHTT levels by targeting HTT DNA, RNA, or proteins, these treatments only ameliorate downstream pathogenic effects. While gene therapies, such as antisense oligonucleotides, small interfering RNAs and gene editing, have emerged in the field of HD treatment, their safety and efficacy are still under debate. Therefore, pharmacological therapy remains the most promising breakthrough, especially multi‐target/functional drugs, which have diverse pharmacological effects. This review summarizes the latest progress in HD drug development based on clinicaltrials.gov search results (Search strategy: key word “Huntington's disease” in HD clinical investigational drugs registered as of December 31, 2023), and highlights the key role of multi‐target/functional drugs in HD treatment strategies.
A Platform for Medium‐Throughput Cell‐Free Analyses of Microtubule‐Interacting Proteins Using Mammalian Cell Lysates
Authors: Jijumon A. S. , Krishnan Arya , Janke Carsten
Published: June 2024

The microtubule (MT) cytoskeleton performs a variety of functions in cell division, cell architecture, neuronal differentiation, and ciliary beating. These functions are controlled by proteins that directly interact with MTs, commonly referred to as microtubule‐associated proteins (MAPs). Out of the many proteins reported interact with MTs, only a some have been biochemically and functionally characterized so far. One of the limitations of classical in vitro assays and single‐MT reconstitution approaches is that they are typically performed with purified proteins. As purification of proteins can be difficult and time‐consuming, many previous studies have only focused on a few proteins, while systematic analyses of many different proteins by in vitro reconstitution assays were not possible. Here we present a detailed protocol using lysates of mammalian cells instead of purified proteins that overcomes this limitation. Those lysates contain all molecular components required for in vitro MT reconstitution including the endogenous tubulin and the recombinant MAPs, which form MT assemblies upon the injection of the lysates into a microscopy chamber. This allows to directly observe the dynamic behavior of growing MTs, as well as the fluorescently labeled associated proteins by total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) microscopy. Strikingly, all proteins tested so far were functional in our approach, thus providing the possibility to test virtually any protein of interest. This also opens the possibility to screen the impact of patient mutations on the MT binding behavior of MAPs in a medium‐throughput manner. In addition, the lysate approach can easily be adapted to other applications that have predominantly been performed with purified proteins so far, such as investigating other cytoskeletal systems and cytoskeletal crosstalk, or to study structures of MAPs bound to MTs by cryo‐electron microscopy. Our approach is thus a versatile, expandable, and easy‐to‐use method to characterize the impact of a broad spectrum of proteins on cytoskeletal behavior and function. © 2024 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Preparation of lysates of human cells for TIRF reconstitution assays

Basic Protocol 2: Quantification of GFP‐tagged MAP concentration in cell lysates

Support Protocol 1: Purification of KIF5B(N555/T92A) (dead kinesin) protein for TIRF reconstitution assays

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of GMPCPP MT seeds for TIRF reconstitution assays

Basic Protocol 3: TIRF‐based MT‐MAP reconstitution assays using cell lysates
Comparison of 5G‐IoT antenna performance by using four distinct dielectric materials to verify their efficiencies
Authors: Mukherjee Kaushal , Roy Sahadev
Published: June 2024

The characterization of four different materials, Taconic (D1), FR4 (D2), Lab material (D3), and Created material (D4) using the ring resonator technique, is presented in this study along with a comparison of antenna performance using standard and measured dielectric constant (
) and loss tangent (
) values. This article discussed the comparison of antenna performances on four distinct dielectric materials to verify their efficiencies. Standard values of
for the reported materials are 2.20, 4.40, 2.33, and 10.45 for D1, D2, D3, and D4, respectively, with corresponding
values of 0.0009, 0.02, 0.0012, and 0.00032. The
and
for the materials D1, D2, D3, and D4 are calculated as 2.10, 4.56, 2.51, and 9.89 and 0.00094, 0.01927, 0.0013, and 0.0003025, respectively, using a ring resonator. The materials are utilized as the substrate for a printed single layer Y‐Shape 5G‐IoT antenna in order to validate the measured results. According to the findings of this study, the measurement of
using the resonator approach exhibited errors of 4.54%, 3.63%, 7.82%, and 5.33%, respectively, while the
has errors of 04.44%, 03.65%, 08.33%, and 5.47% for materials D1, D2, D3, and D4, respectively. The outcomes of this work include the numerical calculation of the
and
of four materials and the validation of the measured values using a Y‐Shape 5G‐IoT antenna in the millimeter‐wave 5G frequency bands. Additionally, the values calculated mathematically are compared with the values obtained from the conventional ring resonator.
Downregulation of HIGD1B induces mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis in gastric cancer cells by inactivating Akt and ERK pathways
Authors: Chen Xiangyu , Sun Binghua , Li Shuai
Published: June 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Hypoxia‐inducible domain (HIGD) family members (e.g., HIGD1A) have been linked to tumor progression. However, the role of HIGD1B (another HIGD family member) in GC has yet to be fully understood. Based on data from TCGA_GC, GSE65801, and GSE65801 data sets, HIGD1B levels were evaluated in normal and GC tissues. Next, HIGD1B levels were validated by reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR and western blot analysis analyses. Meanwhile, patients with GC in the TCGA_GC cohort were grouped into high‐ and low‐HIGD1B level groups, and overall survival, functional enrichment, and immune infiltration were analyzed. Additionally, gain‐ and loss‐of‐function experiments were performed to determine the function of HIGD1B in GC cells. Compared to normal controls, HIGD1B mRNA levels were significantly elevated in GC tissues. Moreover, high HIGD1B levels may be an independent indicator of poor prognosis in patients with GC. Additionally, high HIGD1B levels were correlated with high stromal and ESTIMATE scores and elevated expression of immune checkpoints in patients with GC. Functional analyses showed that HIGD1B deficiency notably suppressed GC cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Moreover, HIGD1B deficiency significantly induced mitochondria‐mediated apoptosis in GC cells by inactivating Akt and ERK pathways. Collectively, HIGD1B may predict the prognosis of patients with GC and may function as an oncogene in GC. These findings suggest that HIGD1B may serve as a prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target in GC.
Constructing Alkyl Chain Modified FeII Spin Crossover Complexes through Complementary Pair Strategy
Authors: Peng Ya‐Lin , Lu Han‐Han , Shang Meng‐Jia , Sun Hui‐Ying , Jiang Wen‐Jing , Xiao Jing‐Yi , Liu Tao , Meng Yin‐Shan
Published: June 2024

Four alkyl chains and cyclohexane modified FeII complexes [Fe(Ln)(L’)](ClO4)2⋅solv (n=1, 2, 3, 4) were synthesized and characterized. X‐ray diffraction study showed that these complexes were constituted by asymmetric mononuclear FeII entities, incorporating alkyl‐chain‐modified bppCOOH (2,6‐bis(1H‐pyrazol‐1‐yl)isonicotinic acid) ligands and 6,6’’‐2,6‐dimethoxyphenyl‐substituted terpy ligand (L’). Magnetic susceptibility measurements revealed that complexes 1, 2, and 3 were in the high spin state across the measured temperature range, whereas complex 4 displayed an incomplete spin crossover phenomenon, with a transition temperature (T1/2) at 240 K. Investigations into variable‐temperature structure and magneto‐structural correlations revealed that the integration of alkyl‐chain‐modified bipyridyl units fostered the π⋅⋅⋅π intra‐ and intermolecular interactions, contributing to distinct crystal stacking and spatial configurations in complex 4 when compared to its counterparts. These findings underscore the pivotal influence of intramolecular interactions on the FeII spin states and highlight the significance of designing flexible ligands for modulating spin‐crossover characteristics.
Stability of color and biologically active compounds of pasteurized juices from potatoes with colored flesh
Authors: Tkaczyńska Agnieszka , Rytel Elżbieta , Kucharska Alicja Z. , Kolniak‐Ostek Joanna , Sokół‐Łętwska Anna
Published: June 2024

Juices from potato varieties with colored flesh contain a large amount of biologically active compounds, but they tend to darken enzymatically, which deteriorates the quality. One of the factors that can improve the color of juices is pasteurization. The aim of the study was to investigate the effect of pasteurization temperature on the anthocyanin content and color of juices from potatoes with colored flesh. The research material included juices from potato varieties with red and purple flesh. Juices pasteurized at 75 °C were characterized by the lightest color and an increase in the a* (red color) and b* (yellow color) parameters compared to unpasteurized juices. Pasteurization of juices reduced the amount of glycoalkaloids by an average of 54% compared to unpasteurized juices (larger losses in the content of α‐chaconine than α‐solanine). Purple potato juices showed a higher content of total polyphenols by an average of 30% and anthocyanins by 70% than juices from red potatoes. Pelargonidin and its derivatives were identified in red potato juices, while petunidin and peonidin were the most abundant in purple potato juices. Higher losses of total polyphenols were found in juices from red varieties of potatoes, while anthocyanins were less thermostable in juices from varieties with purple flesh.