bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemomechanical Self‐Oscillatory Microgel Motility in Stratified Chemical Media
Authors: Patwal P. S. , Mann Stephen , Kumar B. V. V. S. Pavan
Published: December 2024

The design of chemomechanical self‐oscillators, which execute oscillations in the presence of constant stimuli lacking periodicity, is a step toward the development of autonomous and interactive soft robotic systems. This work presents a simple design of prolonged chemomechanical oscillatory movement in a microgel system capable of buoyant motility within stratified chemical media containing spatially localized sinking and floating stimuli. Three design elements are developed: a stimuli‐responsive membranized calcium alginate microgel, a Percoll density gradient for providing stratified antagonistic chemical media, and transduction of microgel particle size actuation into buoyant motility via membrane‐mediated displacement of the Percoll media. The presence of citrate or calcium ions in different layers of the Percoll media gives rise to swelling (buoyancy) or contraction (geotaxis), respectively, which in turn mediate the shuttling of the microgels between the layers to produce prolonged or damped chemomechanical oscillatory trajectories. The concentration‐dependence of the oscillatory behavior in the stratified media, the density gap between the Percoll layers, and the kinetic asymmetry of microgel swelling and deswelling are studied. The illustrated modular design allows for the development of chemomechanical self‐oscillators responsive to light, pH, or temperature, which will find applications in interactive soft robotics, autonomous microbots, and intelligent materials.
High‐Performance Broad‐Spectrum Photodetector by Suppressing Stray Electrons by Adopting a Hybrid CQD/Organic Architecture
Authors: Qiao Jiawei , Wang Qian , Wang Jingjing , Liu Junwei , Zhang Wenqing , Liao Xunfan , Ye Long , Yin Hang , Hao Xiaotao
Published: December 2024

Broad‐spectrum photodetectors (PDs) are essential for various health monitoring, night vision, and telecommunications applications, but their detectivity in a wide absorbance region is limited by undesirable electronic response properties. Colloidal quantum dots (CQDs) are a promising system for broad‐spectrum detection, whereas their practical potential is hindered by suboptimal dark current characteristics. To overcome these challenges, we propose a layered architecture comprising CQDs and a bulk heterojunction (BHJ) organic film as a hole transport layer. The integration of PbS CQDs offers multiple benefits, including bandgap tuning for minimizing thermal carriers, surface passivation to reduce recombination rates, and the formation of high‐quality interfaces with organic layers, which collectively contribute to suppressing dark current leakage and thermal excitations by suppressing stray electrons. By integrating ITIC into the BHJ film, the device detectability is significantly enhanced, reaching 1013 Jones in the 400–1000 nm spectral range. This improvement is attributed to the higher lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) of ITIC molecules, which effectively hinders electron injection. Additionally, J‐aggregation‐induced molecular stacking and optimized phase separation of BHJ films contribute to the enhanced performance. The integration of diverse materials offers greater flexibility in device design and functionality, enabling the development of more advanced and sophisticated optoelectronic devices. Furthermore, this approach could significantly enhance the theoretical and practical understanding of optoelectronic device engineering, leading to the development of more advanced optoelectronic devices.
Iron(III) Bis(Phenol) Amine Complex Supported on Functionalized Graphene Oxide Nanosheets as an Efficient and Recoverable Catalyst for Room Temperature Epoxidation of Alkenes
Authors: Aghajani Milad , Safaei Elham , Mansouri Fariborz
Published: December 2024

Iron(III) bis(phenol) amine complex immobilized on the surface of functionalized graphene oxide nanosheets (FeLGDC‐AP/GO) has introduced as a highly active and recoverable catalyst for the epoxidation of alkenes. Optimizing different parameters in the oxidation of styrene as a model substrate revealed that 100% conversion and selectivity were obtained toward styrene oxide in the presence of H2O2 (28 wt%) as oxidant and water/acetone (3:1) as a solvent system in a bicarbonate buffer system. Furthermore, the catalyst displayed 54%–100% conversion and 90%–100% selectivity for the epoxidation of various aromatic and aliphatic alkenes under optimized reaction conditions at room temperature. The recycling experiment showed that FeLGDC‐AP/GO could be easily recovered by simple filtration and recycled six times without loss of the activity and selectivity. The high catalytic activity and selectivity of the developed catalyst could be attributed to the well‐designed coordination sphere around the iron core as well as the presence of GO support, which facilitates the electron transfer process beside the catalyst recovery.
Copper Acetylacetonate–Immobilized Halloysite Nanotube: An Efficient Natural and Green Catalyst for the Synthesis of 4H‐Chromenes at Room Temperature
Authors: Mousavi‐Mashhadi Seyed Ali , Shiri Ali
Published: December 2024

A new copper acetylacetonate immobilized on halloysite nanotube (HNT) was synthesized. For this purpose, (3‐aminopropyl)trimethoxysilane (AMPTSi) was covalently bonded to the surface of halloysite nanotubes, and then copper acetylacetonate was immobilized onto the modified support. The chemical and physical structure of Cu(acac)2/AMPTSi/HNTs were characterized via various analyses such as TEM, SEM, EDS, FTIR, XRD, TGA, and N2 adsorption–desorption. The efficiency of this catalyst was studied in a one‐pot three‐component reaction of benzaldehydes, dimedone, and malononitrile/ethyl cyanoacetate for the synthesis of 4H‐chromenes. For all substrates, good to excellent yields of the corresponding 4H‐chromenes were obtained.
Thirty years of persuasion knowledge research: From demonstrating effects to building theory to increasing applicability
Authors: Isaac Mathew S. , Calder Bobby J.
Published: December 2024

Persuasion knowledge, which encapsulates consumers' literacy of common marketing tactics and their assumptions about what marketers hope to accomplish by using these tactics, has inspired substantial research in consumer psychology, advertising, and many other fields. The original article introducing the persuasion knowledge model (PKM; Friestad & Wright, 1994) has grown in importance over the past 30 years. A major strength of extant persuasion knowledge research is that it has investigated effects that have applicability to the traditional media advertising context. We point out the need, however, for further theory development aimed at explaining the persuasion knowledge effects that have been observed, and we discuss the value of considering dual‐processing theories in this regard. We further contend that persuasion knowledge research should be broadened beyond the context of traditional advertising to encompass content marketing. Finally, we consider how the interplay of theory and effects can allow greater applicability in behavioral research.
Examination of the effect of temperature, biomass characteristics, and heating rates on volatile release yield in palm kernel shell pyrolysis using volatile state kinetic modeling
Authors: Hernowo Pandit , Steven Soen , Syauket Amalia , Rukmayadi Dede , Irawan Anton , Rasrendra Carolus B. , Bindar Yazid , Hidayatullah Ibnu Maulana , Sophiana Intan Clarissa , Ratnani Rita Dwi , Saraswati Komang Ria
Published: December 2024

The behavior of biomass pyrolysis can be predicted by analyzing its characteristics. This study aimed to model the release of volatiles across various temperatures, biomass properties, and heating rates. Palm kernel shells were pyrolyzed at 433–773 K with a heating rate of 5 K·min−1 using volatile‐state kinetic modeling. The process began by calculating the biomass type number (NCT), which was used to determine volatile enhancement (VE), volatile release yield (YVY), product yield (Yi), and product mass fraction (yi). The kinetic parameters, including the activation energy for product formation (Eai), were derived through a fitting process.

The results indicate a YVY of 70.77% within the devolatilization zone, corresponding to the degradation of cellulose and hemicellulose. The YVY increased with higher temperatures, lower NCT, and higher heating rates. The activation energy ranged from 155–185 kJ·mol⁻¹ for biocrude oil (BCO) and 149–186 kJ·mol⁻¹ for gas. The kinetic parameters from the volatile‐state kinetic model demonstrated errors below 0.2% in comparison with the experimental data, confirming the model's accuracy and reliability.
To Tweak or Not to Tweak. How Exploiting Flexibilities in Gene Set Analysis Leads to Overoptimism
Authors: Wünsch Milena , Sauer Christina , Herrmann Moritz , Hinske Ludwig Christian , Boulesteix Anne‐Laure
Published: December 2024

Gene set analysis, a popular approach for analyzing high‐throughput gene expression data, aims to identify sets of genes that show enriched expression patterns between two conditions. In addition to the multitude of methods available for this task, users are typically left with many options when creating the required input and specifying the internal parameters of the chosen method. This flexibility can lead to uncertainty about the “right” choice, further reinforced by a lack of evidence‐based guidance. Especially when their statistical experience is scarce, this uncertainty might entice users to produce preferable results using a “trial‐and‐error” approach. While it may seem unproblematic at first glance, this practice can be viewed as a form of “cherry‐picking” and cause an optimistic bias, rendering the results nonreplicable on independent data. After this problem has attracted a lot of attention in the context of classical hypothesis testing, we now aim to raise awareness of such overoptimism in the different and more complex context of gene set analyses. We mimic a hypothetical researcher who systematically selects the analysis variants yielding their preferred results, thereby considering three distinct goals they might pursue. Using a selection of popular gene set analysis methods, we tweak the results in this way for two frequently used benchmark gene expression data sets. Our study indicates that the potential for overoptimism is particularly high for a group of methods frequently used despite being commonly criticized. We conclude by providing practical recommendations to counter overoptimism in research findings in gene set analysis and beyond.
Green Synchronous Spectrofluorimetric Method for Simultaneous Determination of Trifluridine and Tipiracil Used for Treatment of Colorectal Cancer in Pharmaceutical Products and Spiked Human Biological Fluids
Authors: Salem Hesham , Abdelgaleel Mahmoud , Emad Nadeen , Moftah Soheir E. , Samir Basmala , Hassan Esraa M. , Abdelaziz Amany
Published: December 2024

Trifluridine and tipiracil can now be determined simultaneously thanks to a novel, quick, sensitive, selective, environmentally friendly, and extremely sensitive approach. To determine the medications under study, the first derivative synchronous spectrofluorimetric technique was used. Trifluridine and tipiracil's first derivative amplitudes have been measured at their respective zero crossing points of 260 and 250 nm. The range of linearity was discovered to be of 5.0–30.0 ng mL−1 for each trifluridine and tipiracil. The limits of detection were found to be 0.834 and 0.376 ng mL−1, while the quantitation limits were 2.53 and 1.14 ng mL−1 for trifluridine and tipiracil, in respective order. The technique worked well for figuring out both medications in their lab‐made mixes in various dosage forms and in spiked human biological fluids (spiked human plasma and urine). The outcomes were contrasted with those of HPLC techniques used in comparison. We employed ethanol as a green solvent. Trifluridine and tipiracil can be ascertained with a sufficient level of precision and accuracy using the suggested procedure: AGREE and Eco‐scale. In comparison to HPLC procedures, the suggested method is inexpensive and straightforward.
New Shikimic Acid Derivatives From the Marine‐Derived Actinomycete Streptomyces sp. G666 and Their Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Do Thi Quynh , Van Trinh Thi Thanh , Phi Thi Dao , Nguyen Thuy Linh , Vu Thi Quyen , Le Thi Hong Minh , Murphy Brian T. , Doan Thi Mai Huong , Pham Van Cuong
Published: December 2024

Analysis of an antimicrobial extract from the agar‐based culture of the marine‐derived actinomycete Streptomyces sp. G666 led to the isolation of three new shikimic acid derivatives, streptomine A‐C (1–3), along with five known compounds (4–8). Their structures were established by their spectral data analyses, including MS and NMR. All the isolated compounds were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against a panel of clinically significant microorganisms. Three new compounds 1–3 demonstrated selective antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive Enterococcus faecalis with MIC values ranging from 32 to 64 µg/mL. Compound 3 exhibited the highest inhibitory effect against E. faecalis with an MIC value of 32 µg/mL. Compound 4 selectively inhibited Escherichia coli with an MIC value of 128 µg/mL. In addition, compounds 1–3 moderately inhibited the yeast Candida albicans with the same MIC value of 16 µg/mL. Unfortunately, most of isolated compounds were inactive against Gram‐negative bacteria E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Salmonella enterica.
Enantio‐Recognition and Charge Transfer Complex Formation Involving Tetrathiafulvalene‐Appended Chiral 1,2‐Cyclohexane‐Diamine: An Integrated Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Ferrari Camilla , Bogdan Alexandra , Pop Flavia , Curto Cosimo , Carella Alberta , Rossella Francesco , Avarvari Narcis , Fontanesi Claudio
Published: December 2024

In this work, we exploit the electronic features of tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) as a backbone in synthesizing chiral derivatives. The aim is to make use of TTF's well‐known and unique redox and semiconducting properties in the fields of enantio‐selective recognition and chiral charge transfer (CT) complex preparation, with the ultimate objective of obtaining devices with various potential applications, ranging from plasmonics to quantum computing. In particular, both cyclohexane‐bis (TTF‐amide)–based enantiomers 1‐(S,S) and 1‐(R,R), stable under an oxidation regime, have been selected, and under these conditions, the electrochemical enantiospecific response of the four possible systems, coming from the combination with L‐ and D‐tartaric acid, respectively, was tested. The 1:tartaric acid adducts show lower oxidation potentials than the pristine 1, together with clear enantio‐discrimination demonstrated by sizeable potential differences in the range of 29–46 mV between the diastereomeric adducts. Because the oxidation potential of 1 suggests the possibility of the formation of CT complexes, impedance and FT‐IR spectra were recorded to confirm this hypothesis in the case of the CT complex 1:I2. The experimental results obtained through the FT‐IR analysis were also compared with the theoretical results deriving from the DFT‐based calculations.
Exploring the Lifeline: Unpacking the Complexities of Placental Vascular Function in Normal and Preeclamptic Pregnancies
Authors: Schliefsteiner Carolin , Wadsack Christian , Allerkamp Hanna H.
Published: December 2024

The proper development and function of the placenta are essential for the success of pregnancy and the well‐being of both the fetus and the mother. Placental vascular function facilitates efficient fetal development during pregnancy by ensuring adequate gas exchange with low vascular resistance. This review focuses on how placental vascular function can be compromised in the pregnancy pathology preeclampsia, and conversely, how placental vascular dysfunction might contribute to this condition. While the maternal endothelium is widely recognized as a key focus in preeclampsia research, this review emphasizes the importance of understanding how this condition affects the development and function of the fetal placental vasculature. The placental vascular bed, consisting of microvasculature and macrovasculature, is discussed in detail, as well as structural and functional changes associated with preeclampsia. The complexity of placental vascular reactivity and function, its mediators, its impact on placental exchange and blood distribution, and how these factors are most affected in early‐onset preeclampsia are further explored. These factors include foremost lipoproteins and their cargo, oxygen levels and oxidative stress, biomechanics, and shear stress. Challenges in studying placental pathophysiology are discussed, highlighting the necessity of innovative research methodologies, including
ex vivo
experiments,
in vivo
imaging tools, and computational modeling. Finally, an outlook on the potential of drug interventions targeting the placental endothelium to improve placental vascular function in preeclampsia is provided. Overall, this review highlights the need for further research and the development of models and tools to better understand and address the challenges posed by preeclampsia and its effects on placental vascular function to improve short‐ and long‐term outcomes for the offspring of preeclamptic pregnancies. © 2024 American Physiological Society.
Compr Physiol
14:5763‐5787, 2024.
Neuromechanical Circuits of the Spinal Motor Apparatus
Authors: Nichols T. Richard
Published: December 2024

The evolution of mechanisms for terrestrial locomotion has resulted in multi‐segmented limbs that allow navigation on irregular terrains, changing of direction, manipulation of external objects, and control over the mechanical properties of limbs important for interaction with the environment, with corresponding changes in neural pathways in the spinal cord. This article is focused on the organization of these pathways, their interactions with the musculoskeletal system, and the integration of these neuromechanical circuits with supraspinal mechanisms to control limb impedance. It is argued that neural pathways from muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs form a distributive impedance controller in the spinal cord that controls limb impedance and coordination during responses to external disturbances. These pathways include both monosynaptic and polysynaptic components. Autogenic, monosynaptic pathways serve to control the spring‐like properties of muscles preserving the nonlinear relationship between stiffness and force. Intermuscular monosynaptic pathways compensate for inertial disparities between the inertial properties of limb segments and help to control inertial coupling between joints and axes of rotation. Reciprocal inhibition controls joint stiffness in conjunction with feedforward cocontraction commands. Excitatory force feedback becomes operational during locomotion and increases muscular stiffness to accommodate the higher inertial loads. Inhibitory force feedback is widely distributed among muscles. It is integrated with excitatory pathways from muscle spindles and Golgi tendon organs to determine limb stiffness and interjoint coordination during interactions with the environment. The intermuscular distribution of force feedback is variable and serves to modulate limb stiffness to meet the physical demands of different motor tasks. © 2024 American Physiological Society.
Compr Physiol
14:5789‐5838, 2024.
Cellulite & Skin Tightening: A Review of Pathophysiology and Topical Treatment
Authors: Castellanos‐García Isabella , Ramírez‐Zuluaga Luisa Valentina , Páez‐Cárdenas Laura Sofia , Villalba‐Moreno Dennys Lintsay , Caicedo‐León María Daniela , Singer Elisha , Pincelli Thais , Bruce Alison J. , Aristizabal Miguel A.
Published: December 2024

Background

Cellulite is a localized skin condition that affects many women, particularly after puberty. It results from a complex interplay of several factors that lead to the characteristic dimpled appearance of the skin. Cellulite may cause psychological stress and negatively impact quality of life. Additionally, body skin laxity may further exacerbate cosmetic concerns in these patients. Consequently, multiple therapeutic options, including topical treatments, have been explored to address both cellulite and skin laxity.

Objectives

To review the pathophysiology of cellulite and skin laxity, as well as topical skincare options for their management.

Methods

A literature search from 2000 to 2024 was conducted using the databases PubMed, EBSCOhost, Scopus, and Google Scholar, with the key terms “cellulite,” “cellulite management,” “cellulite topical treatment,” “skin sagging,” “skin laxity,” and “loose skin.” The search included clinical trials, observational studies, book chapters, and review articles in English and Spanish.

Results

The pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying cellulite involve a combination of histological, hormonal, genetic, and lifestyle factors. Several topical agents, including retinoids and methylxanthines, have shown potential in improving the cosmetic appearance of cellulite and may contribute to localized fat reduction. Emerging botanical extracts hold promise as topical treatments for cellulite and skin tightening.

Conclusions

Cellulite and skin laxity are prevalent cosmetic concerns with multifactorial and complex pathophysiologic origins. Topical treatments for cellulite and skin tightening require further investigation. Although some studies have demonstrated positive outcomes with skincare products and topicals, robust evidence and studies with extended follow‐up are still lacking. Additional research is necessary to evaluate the long‐term efficacy of topical treatments as standalone therapies for cellulite and skin tightening.
Effects of Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae, abundance, and climate conditions on bighorn sheep lamb:ewe ratios in New Mexico
Authors: Padilla Colton J. , Ruhl Caitlin Q. , Cain James W. , Gompper Matthew E.
Published: December 2024

Mycoplasma ovipneumoniae is a primary causative agent responsible for initiating polymicrobial pneumonia in bighorn sheep (Ovis canadensis). Infections of bighorn sheep populations are typically characterized by initial all‐age epizootics followed by long‐term periods of repressed juvenile (lamb) survival. Populations of bighorn sheep in New Mexico, USA, were thought to be free of this pathogen prior to 2017 but recent infection of multiple herds raised concerns regarding impacts on population size and juvenile:female ratios. Using aerial survey, survival, and disease sampling data in an exploratory framework, we (1) characterize age‐related differences in M. ovipneumoniae prevalence and seroprevalence, (2) quantify differences in lamb:ewe ratios pre‐ and post‐M. ovipneumoniae detection, and (3) investigate differences in survival between previously exposed and naïve individuals. From 2007 to 2022, we sampled 466 bighorn sheep across 19 populations in New Mexico for M. ovipneumoniae exposure. While the timing of initial herd infections varied across populations, one population sustained active infections for over 15 years. We found reduced juvenile:female ratios post M. ovipneumoniae exposure for both desert (O. c. mexicana) and Rocky Mountain (O. c. canadensis) bighorn sheep populations. Post‐exposure ratio declines ranged from 20% to 69%. Evaluation of population size and environmental condition effects on juvenile:female ratios indicated varying impacts for each subspecies. Notably, population size was negatively related to Rocky Mountain juvenile:female ratios only after populations were exposed to M. ovipneumoniae. Additionally, climatic conditions in the previous lambing season and pre‐parturition time frame were associated with juvenile:female ratios for Rocky Mountain populations, while juvenile:female ratios of desert bighorn appeared to only be affected by pre‐parturition climatic conditions. Kaplan–Meier survival estimation of previously exposed, but putatively recovered, individuals (n = 31) and naïve individuals (n = 70) revealed lower (75%; 95% CI: 62%–93%) but not statistically significant (p = 0.2) 1‐year survival rates for individuals that were seropositive but not actively infected, when compared to seronegative individuals (88%; 95% CI: 81%–97%). These results collectively suggest that following M. ovipneumoniae introduction, bighorn sheep populations in New Mexico could be limited by lamb survival.
Biomass allocation and root topology alteration of an introduced amphibious plant in response to cultural eutrophication
Authors: Huang Xiaolong , Zhao Yu , Xu Hai , Yin Chunyu , Shen Ruijie , Guan Baohua , Mao Zhigang , He Hu , Yu Jinlei , Li Kuanyi
Published: December 2024

Parrot feather (Myriophyllum aquaticum) is an introduced, noninvasive amphibious plant found in coastal provinces, but it has the potential to become an invasive species in China. The plant is heterophyllous, with both emergent (aerial) and submerged (aquatic) leaves, and has two distinct root types: aquatic (adventitious) and edaphic (sediment) root systems. This morphological plasticity allows M. aquaticum to effectively absorb nutrients from different layers of the environment, making it a suitable model plant for exploring nutrient dynamics in both water and soil systems and investigating how wetland plants respond to cultural eutrophication. We designed an outdoor mesocosm experiment to assess plant growth traits and root topological indices in response to different nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) concentrations. The results indicated that the plant has a high tolerance to N loading. In contrast, the P content had greater impacts than the N content on plant growth and root topological indices, indicating that the P content was the main influencing factor affecting and suppressing the development of M. aquaticum. The aquatic or edaphic root branching did not change, but the aquatic root topology of M. aquaticum exhibited similar stable trends with increasing P concentration, indicating typical herringbone branching; additionally, its edaphic roots exhibited decreasing topological indices, indicating more typical dichotomous branching with increasing P concentration. The plant has a high tolerance to N, and it may become invasive following the current trend of increasing cultural eutrophication.
Efficacy of Pendulum Tuned Mass Dampers in Reducing Overturning Risk of Rocking Blocks Subjected to Artificial Accelerograms
Authors: Edwin Duque , José Inaudi
Published: December 2024

This study presents a comprehensive statistical analysis of the efficacy of pendulum tuned mass dampers (PTMD) in mitigating the overturning risk of rigid blocks subjected to artificial seismic loads. The block is modeled as a rigid parallelepiped undergoing rocking motion, with the PTMD characterized by its mass, length, and viscous damping properties, mounted on top of the block. The analysis includes the derivation of the differential equations of motion for the coupled system, which are numerically integrated. The seismic accelerograms are synthetically generated as realizations of a stationary random process characterized in the frequency domain by its power spectral density (PSD). Second‐order white‐noise filters are used for sample generation. A Monte Carlo simulation is performed to conduct a parametric analysis, determining the sensitivity of the PTMD parameters to seismic intensity and block slenderness. The results indicate that the efficacy of the PTMD in reducing overturning risk strongly depends on the block's slenderness and the intensity of ground motion. The TMD demonstrates robust performance for moderate ground motion and block slenderness. Although the design parameters do not exhibit systematic trends with respect to mass ratio of PTMD and block due to the inherent nonlinearity of the coupled system, stabilizing, and optimal parameter ranges can still be identified to minimize the overturning risk. Significant reduction of overturning risk can be achieved with respect to the block without PTMD.
Integration of In Vitro and In Silico Results From Chemical and Biological Assays of Rheum turkestanicum and Calendula officinalis Flower Extracts
Authors: Korpayev Serdar , Zengin Gokhan , Ak Gunes , Glamočlija Jasmina , Soković Marina , Aničić Neda , Gašić Uroš , Stojković Dejan , Agamyradov Mirap , Cetiz Mehmet Veysi , Agamyradova Guljan
Published: December 2024

In this study, we conducted a thorough analysis of Rheum turkestanicum (RT) and Calendula officinalis flowers (COF) extracts with varying polarities using LC–MS chemical profiling and biological tests (antioxidant, antimicrobial, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxic effects). The highest level of total phenolic content in the ethanol extract of RT with 75.82 mg GAE/g, followed by the infusions of RT (65.00 mg GAE/g) and COF (40.99 mg GAE/g). A total of 20 bioactive compounds were identified and quantified. The ethanol extract of COF was rich in terms of 5‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid (2780.56 μg/g), isorhamnetin‐O‐rutinoside (1653.59 μg/g), and rutin (1356.97 μg/g). However, RF extracts were rich in catechin gallate (21.66–80.01 μg/g) and 5‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid. Except for metal chelating ability, the ethanol extract of RT exhibited the strongest ability (DPPH: 171.5 mg TE/g; ABTS: 387.35 mg TE/g; CUPRAC: 449.80 mg TE/g; FRAP: 195.60 mg TE/g; and PBD: 1.52 mmol TE/g). In the enzyme inhibition tests, the tested ethanol extracts for both species were more active than the infusion. The highest values for tyrosinase were recorded as 72.47 mg KAE/g (in RT extracts) and 71.74 mg KAE/g (in COF extracts). Furthermore, all extracts underwent assessment for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, targeting both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, as well as clinical yeast and fungal microorganisms. In silico studies yielded valuable insights into the potential therapeutic applications of the bioactive compounds identified in COF and RT extracts. Stable interactions were observed between key compounds, such as isorhamnetin 3‐O‐glucoside and 3‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid, with crucial target proteins (AChE, BChE, and MurE). These compounds formed stable hydrogen bonds with minimal root mean square deviation (RMSD) fluctuations, particularly in the isorhamnetin 3‐O‐glucoside‐Staphylococcus aureus MurE and 3‐O‐caffeoylquinic acid‐MurE of S. aureus complexes. These findings further underscore the potential of these compounds as promising candidates for therapeutic development.
From Inhibition to Exciting Science
Authors: Buzsáki György
Published: December 2024

I am lucky to be part of the hippocampus story, if not from the beginning but at least in its formative decades. Being part of this community is a true privilege. As I try to illustrate below, science is made by scientists. My fierce competitors over the years have become my close friends. I hope the field of hippocampus research will stay that way forever.
Neohesperidin Dihydrochalcone Alleviates Lipopolysaccharide‐Induced Vascular Endothelium Dysfunction by Regulating Antioxidant Capacity
Authors: Nong Yuxin , Lu Junquan , Yu Danqing , Wei Xuebiao
Published: December 2024

Background

Endothelial dysfunction is one of the important mechanisms of organ and tissue damage in sepsis. In this study, we evaluated the effects of neohesperidin dihydrochalone (NHDC) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced vascular dysfunction and explored the potential mechanisms.

Methods

In vivo, we assessed vascular leakage in mice by injecting Evans blue dye. In vitro, cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay and flow cytometry were used to assess the activity of HUVEC and apoptosis. The effect of LPS on HUVEC barrier was assessed using FITC‐extend membrane assay. The adhesion ability of HUVEC was tested by THP‐1 cell adhesion assay. The antioxidant capacity of cells was measured by detecting the level of mitochondrial membrane potential, ROS, and content of CAT, SOD, GSH, and MDA within the cells. Furthermore, the release of endothelial IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were detected by ELISA, and the expression level of TAK1, ERK1/2, and NFκB were detected by western blot.

Results

Treatment with NHDC effectively alleviated LPS‐induced endothelial permeability and organ damage by reducing reactive oxygen species production and enhancing the antioxidant response. Further investigation suggested that NHDC may exert its protective effects by inhibiting the release of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α, and by decreasing the phosphorylation of key inflammatory signaling molecules, including transforming growth factor‐β‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1), extracellular signal‐regulated kinases 1/2 (ERK1/2), and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB).

Conclusions

Our study indicate that pretreatment with NHDC may provide protection against LPS‐induced vascular dysfunction by reducing oxidative stress and activation of inflammatory signaling pathways.
Vancomycin‐intermediate Staphylococcus aureus employs CcpA‐GlmS metabolism regulatory cascade to resist vancomycin
Authors: Peng Huagang , Rao Yifan , Shang Weilong , Yang Yi , Tan Li , Liu Lu , Hu Zhen , Wang Yuting , Huang Xiaonan , Liu He , Li Mengyang , Guo Zuwen , Chen Juan , Yang Yuhua , Wu Jianghong , Yuan Wenchang , Hu Qiwen , Rao Xiancai
Published: December 2024

Vancomycin (VAN)‐intermediate Staphylococcus aureus (VISA) is a critical cause of VAN treatment failure worldwide. Multiple genetic changes are reportedly associated with VISA formation, whereas VISA strains often present common phenotypes, such as reduced autolysis and thickened cell wall. However, how mutated genes lead to VISA common phenotypes remains unclear. Here, we show a metabolism regulatory cascade (CcpA‐GlmS), whereby mutated two‐component systems (TCSs) link to the common phenotypes of VISA. We found that ccpA deletion decreased VAN resistance in VISA strains with diverse genetic backgrounds. Metabolic alteration in VISA was associated with ccpA upregulation, which was directly controlled by TCSs WalKR and GraSR. RNA‐sequencing revealed the crucial roles of CcpA in changing the carbon flow and nitrogen flux of VISA to promote VAN resistance. A gate enzyme (GlmS) that drives carbon flow to the cell wall precursor biosynthesis was upregulated in VISA. CcpA directly controlled glmS expression. Blocking CcpA sensitized VISA strains to VAN treatment in vitro and in vivo. Overall, this work uncovers a link between the formation of VISA phenotypes and commonly mutated genes. Inhibition of CcpA‐GlmS cascade is a promising strategy to restore the therapeutic efficiency of VAN against VISA infections.
Security Protection Method for Electronic Archives Based on Homomorphic Aggregation Signature Scheme in Mobile Network
Authors: Li Junwei , Su Huaquan , Guo Li , Wang Wanshuo , Yang Yongjiao , Wen You , Li Kai , Mo Pingyan
Published: December 2024

Electronic archives are now widely used in many different industries and serve as the primary method of information management and storage because of the rapid growth of information technology and mobile networks. To enhance the security of electronic archives in mobile networks, the research utilizes the federated learning mechanism to design a federated learning model based on homomorphic aggregation cryptographic signature scheme combined with mobile network management. The use of homomorphic encryption technology in the signing process of electronic archives enables the aggregation of multiple electronic file signatures into a single signature without exposing the data of the electronic archives. This reduces the computational and storage requirements for signature verification. At the same time, a secure aggregation signature scheme is used to ensure the integrity and security of the data in the aggregation process. A novel approach is presented in this study, whereby trusted federated learning models are innovatively combined with homomorphic aggregate signature technology. This integration ensures data integrity through aggregate signature schemes. The results showed that, under mobile network management, the longest encryption time of the trusted federated learning model was 52 ms, and the longest decryption time was 44 ms. The accuracy of the optimized learning model reached 97.49%, and the loss value was significantly reduced to 0.09. To summarize, the electronic archive security protection method based on homomorphic aggregation signature scheme effectively improves the archive data protection efficiency and security.
Cancer Stage Geospatial Analysis to Optimize Educational Activities in Pediatric Oncology and Hematology: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Barełkowska Monika , Więckowska Barbara , Borowczyk Martyna , Derwich Katarzyna
Published: December 2024

Background

Enhancing therapy outcomes in pediatric oncology and hematology relies on robust epidemiological surveillance. This study aimed to estimate cancer stage‐related survival in pediatric patients with lymphoma and solid tumors by assessing changes over time and identifying spatial clustering of patients diagnosed at advanced stages.

Procedure

This retrospective observational cohort study included pediatric cancer patients treated in a single Greater Poland center, constituting 9% of Polish children from 2004 to 2017. The incidence, cancer stage, and patient coordinates were analyzed. The follow‐up period ranged from 5 to 18 years. Survival differences across tumor stages were evaluated using Kaplan‒Meier curves, log‐rank tests, and trend analysis. Geographical analysis was performed with Kulldorff's scan statistics and the Bernoulli model.

Results

Among 1094 diagnosed patients, 511 with lymphoma and solid tumors were eligible. There was a decreasing trend in advanced‐stage diagnoses (p = 0.0001), with a nearly twofold increase in low‐stage diagnoses (OR = 1.98 [1.22; 3.24], p = 0.0061) from 2009–2011 to 2015–2017. Hazard ratios for neuroblastoma and sarcoma patients were more than fourfold greater, while survival differences were not significant for patients with nephroblastoma, germ cell tumors, or lymphoma.

Conclusions

This study shows cancer stage‐related survival dynamics. A substantial decrease in advanced‐stage diagnoses over time emphasizes improved early detection. Geographical analysis pinpointed clusters with prevalent late‐stage diagnoses, offering a practical tool for targeted educational interventions. The study underscores the pivotal impact of cancer stage on survival outcomes, emphasizing the need for ongoing surveillance and tailored interventions to further optimize pediatric oncology and hematology care.
Tannic acid and aminopropyltriethoxysilane modified basalt fiber/epoxy resin composites with enhanced interfacial and mechanical properties
Authors: Xiang Dong , Chen Chao , Xie Guoqian , Gong Yusheng , Harkin‐Jones Eileen , Liu Haibao , Wang Menghan , Liu Libing , Wu Yuanpeng , Zhao Chunxia , Li Hui
Published: December 2024

In the present study, a mild and eco‐friendly method is adopted to co‐deposit tannic acid (TA) and aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APS) onto the surface of basalt fibers (BFs) in an aqueous medium. Stiffness and strength assessments have been performed on the prepared BF‐TA/1APS/epoxy samples. The obtained results show that the fiber‐matrix interfacial shear strength (IFSS) of modified basalt fiber‐reinforced polymer (BFRP) composites increases by 65.3%, contributing to increases of 38.1%, 31.6%, and 20.9% in the composite flexural strength, flexural modulus, and interlaminar shear strength, respectively. These enhancements in the mechanical properties are attributed to improved fibers' surface roughness and wettability, leading to stronger chemical bonding, hydrogen bonding, and ππ interaction between the fibers and matrix. Furthermore, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) reveals that the maximum stress inside the material decreases with the increasing thickness of the interfacial transition zone, demonstrating a maximum decrease of about 33.9%.

Highlights

A mild and eco‐friendly method is adopted to modify BFs in an aqueous medium.

Interfacial shear strength between fiber and matrix increased by 65.3%.

Enhanced mechanical properties of BFRP are attributed to improved interface.

FEA reveals the relation between internal stresses and interfacial thickness.
Enhanced re‐processability of poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) via chain extension toward a more sustainable end‐of‐life
Authors: Salehiyan Reza , Kim Min Chan , Xia Tian , Jin Seunghyeon , Nofar Mohammadreza , Chalmers Lynn , Hyun Kyu
Published: December 2024

Poly (butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) (PBAT) is a biodegradable polymer recognized for its potential to reduce plastic waste due to its biodegradability and compostability. However, conventional end‐of‐life options for PBAT, such as composting and biodegradation, involve additional costs, require substantial space, and consume significant energy, which may not align with broader sustainability goals. Therefore, an alternative approach through recycling is highly desirable. This study investigates the recyclability of neat PBAT and Joncryl ADR 4468‐modified PBAT with 0.5 wt% Joncryl, a multifunctional epoxy‐based chain extender known to enhance the processing stability and properties of polymers. The research evaluates the tensile, flexural, thermal, and rheological properties of the materials after multiple injection molding cycles to provide comprehensive data on their performance under re‐processing conditions. The results demonstrate that neat PBAT retains its tensile modulus with only a~ 6% reduction after seven cycles, while Joncryl‐modified PBAT exhibits a 26% increase in modulus after five cycles, attributed to enhanced branching. Additionally, modified PBAT showed superior rheological stability and resistance to thermal degradation compared to unmodified PBAT. This study highlights the potential of mechanical recycling to extend the lifecycle of biodegradable polymers, reducing environmental impact and conserving resources.

Highlights

0.5% Joncryl enhances PBAT recyclability by preserving mechanical properties.

Both PBAT and Joncryl‐PBAT retain tensile strength, supporting recycling.

Joncryl‐PBAT resists degradation, showing stable modulus after reprocessing.

Reprocessing raises crystallization temperature.

Joncryl‐PBAT maintains higher viscosity and modulus, resisting degradation.
Intensive cropping influences the success of seed dormancy breaking methods in Australian collected Hordeum, Avena, and Bromus sp.
Authors: Maity Aniruddha , Paul Debashis , Rocha Roberto Lujan , Bagavathiannan Muthukumar , Beckie Hugh J , Ashworth Michael B
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Seed dormancy is a critical evolutionary trait that enhances the persistence of plant populations under both natural and managed conditions. It is influenced by genetic and environmental factors, with crop management practices like tillage and herbicide use reportedly selecting for increased seed dormancy in weeds. This study aimed to compare the success of seed dormancy breaking methods between weed populations collected from intensively managed crop fields and unmanaged ruderal locations.

RESULTS

Weeds from intensively managed fields, including Hordeum glaucum, H. leporinum, Avena fatua, Bromus diandrus, and B. rigidus exhibited significantly higher seed dormancy and didn't respond largely to seed dormancy breaking methods compared to those from unmanaged areas. Dormancy‐breaking treatments such as sandpaper scarification were effective in barley grass, while endosperm excision followed by cold stratification alleviated dormancy in brome grass and wild oat. Dark incubation consistently improved germination across all species, enhancing the efficacy of treatments like cold stratification, sandpaper scarification, and gibberellic acid (GA3).

CONCLUSION

Weeds in managed fields develop greater seed dormancy, likely as an adaptive response to agricultural practices. Techniques such as tillage, which incorporate seeds deeper into the soil, may help mitigate seed dormancy traits by reducing light exposure. These findings highlight the importance of dormancy management in controlling persistent weed populations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
One Neglected Complication in the BPA Process? Severe Vagal Response During the Angioplasty Procedure—A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Yu , Yan Yue , Xie Wanmu , Zhai Zhenguo , Huang Qiang
Published: December 2024

Balloon pulmonary angioplasty (BPA) is now a widely accepted treatment for inoperable chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH), but it still faces the problem of high complications. Herein, we report a rare case of severe vagal response during the BPA of a total occlusion lesion in a patient with CTEPH. The patient experienced acute chest pain and dyspnea, accompanied by a significant decrease in heart rate and blood pressure. After administering atropine, the patient's symptoms rapidly subsided. This case highlights the potential for vascular and pleural injury with chest pain, which can lead to severe vagal response during the BPA procedures. To minimize this risk, avoiding guide wire‐induced injury to the pleura situated distal to the target vessel is crucial.
Regulating Strain and Suppressing Defect States Through Polymer Ionization and Chemical Chelation for Efficient Inverted Flexible Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Cao Shuguang , Zheng Tongjun , Bi Zhuoneng , Taye Biniyam Zemene , Luo Shizi , Tauqeer Haider Ali , Zheng Yupeng , Zhuo Yuling , Liang Zheng , Wen Haoxin , Wu Hualin , Wang Kai , Yang Dong , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Wang Haiyan , Hsu Hsien‐Yi , Xu Xueqing
Published: December 2024

Flexible perovskite solar cells (FPSCs) have great promise for applications in wearable technology and space photovoltaics. However, the unpredictable crystallization of perovskite on flexible substrates results in significantly lower efficiency and mechanical durability than industry standards. A strategy is investigated employing the polymer electrolyte poly(allylamine hydrochloride) (PAH) to regulate crystallization and passivate defect states in perovskite films on flexible substrates. The weakly acidic precursor allows PAH to undergo partial ionization, leading to the protonation of some ─NH3+ groups into ─NH3+. Simulations and experimental results indicate that multifunctional PAH forms strong chemical interactions with precursors of perovskite materials including Formamidine Hydroiodide (FAI) and Lead Iodide (PbI2), facilitating homogenous nucleation and growth of crystals of perovskite films. High‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR‐TEM) reveals that PAH strongly anchors to grain boundaries (GBs), consistent with findings from photo‐induced force microscopy‐based infrared spectroscopy (PiFM‐IR). PAH improves the uniformity distribution of Young's modulus between the grains and GBs, facilitating stress relief in the perovskite films. Therefore, the champion efficiency of PAH‐modified FPSCs reaches 24.19% and exhibits strong bending durability, retaining 87.9% of their initial efficiency after 2500 bending cycles (r = 5 mm), demonstrating their practical application potential in outdoor wearable electronic products.