bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Type‐I‐Organic‐Photosensitizer‐Functionalized Upconversion Nanoparticles for Enhanced Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Liu Yilin , Wang Haiyang , Ke Fangfang , Ji Xiaoyu , Chen Nipeng , Zhang Kaimin , Yang Zhiyong , Chen Yongming , Zhang Zhen
Published: February 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) has achieved great progress in cancer treatment because it generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in a noninvasive manner. Nonetheless, the majority of light‐sensitive photosensitizers (PSs) are only sensitive to UV or visible light, suffering limitations such as phototoxicity (UV) and low tissue penetration capabilities (UV–visible). What is more, another impact factor, namely the hypoxic environment within a tumor always inhibits the production of ROS for treatment efficacy. To overcome these problems, herein, one new type‐I PS containing selenium (Se6) is designed. Benefiting from the dual heavy atom effects of selenium and bromine, Se6 can produce short‐lived hydroxyl (•OH) and long‐lived superoxide anion (O2•−) under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions, which is superior to commonly used oxygen‐dependent type‐II PSs, such as chlorine e6, zinc phthalocyanine. Combining Se6 and upconversion nanoparticles with the ability to upconvert near‐infrared (NIR) light to UV–visible light can greatly overcome the tissue penetration depth, phototoxicity, and oxygen‐dependent limitation of the PDT process, which demonstrates a significant performance in vivo to achieve better therapy efficiency.
Beta‐Cell Tipe1 Orchestrates Insulin Secretion and Cell Proliferation by Promoting Gαs/cAMP Signaling via USP5
Authors: Ding Lu , Sun Yang , Liang Yan , Zhang Jie , Fu Zhendong , Ren Caiyue , Li Pengfei , Liu Wen , Xiao Rong , Wang Hao , Zhang Zhaoying , Yue Xuetian , Li Chunyang , Wu Zhuanchang , Feng Yuemin , Liang Xiaohong , Ma Chunhong , Gao Lifen
Published: February 2024

Inadequate β‐cell mass and insulin secretion are essential for the development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). TNF‐α‐induced protein 8‐like 1 (Tipe1) plays a crucial role in multiple diseases, however, a specific role in T2D pathogenesis remains largely unexplored. Herein, Tipe1 as a key regulator in T2D, contributing to the maintenance of β cell homeostasis is identified. The results show that the β‐cell‐specific knockout of Tipe1 (termed Ins2‐Tipe1BKO) aggravated diabetic phenotypes in db/db mice or in mice with high‐fat diet‐induced diabetes. Notably, Tipe1 improves β cell mass and function, a process that depends on Gαs, the α subunit of the G‐stimulating protein. Mechanistically, Tipe1 inhibited the K48‐linked ubiquitination degradation of Gαs by recruiting the deubiquitinase USP5. Consequently, Gαs or cAMP agonists almost completely restored the dysfunction of β cells observed in Ins2‐Tipe1BKO mice. The findings characterize Tipe1 as a regulator of β cell function through the Gαs/cAMP pathway, suggesting that Tipe1 may emerge as a novel target for T2D intervention.
Disruption of Super‐Enhancers in Activated Pancreatic Stellate Cells Facilitates Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Wang Yazhou , Chen Kai , Liu Gang , Du Chong , Cheng Zhaoxia , Wei Dan , Li Fenfen , Li Chen , Yang Yinmo , Zhao Ying , Nie Guangjun
Published: February 2024

One major obstacle in the drug treatment of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is its highly fibrotic tumor microenvironment, which is replete with activated pancreatic stellate cells (a‐PSCs). These a‐PSCs generate abundant extracellular matrix and secrete various cytokines to form biophysical and biochemical barriers, impeding drug access to tumor tissues. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a strategy for reversing PSC activation and thereby removing the barriers to facilitate PDAC drug treatment. Herein, by integrating chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)‐seq, Assays for Transposase‐Accessible Chromatin (ATAC)‐seq, and RNA‐seq techniques, this work reveals that super‐enhancers (SEs) promote the expression of various genes involved in PSC activation. Disruption of SE‐associated transcription with JQ1 reverses the activated phenotype of a‐PSCs and decreases stromal fibrosis in both orthotopic and patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models. More importantly, disruption of SEs by JQ1 treatments promotes vascularization, facilitates drug delivery, and alters the immune landscape in PDAC, thereby improving the efficacies of both chemotherapy (with gemcitabine) and immunotherapy (with IL‐12). In summary, this study not only elucidates the contribution of SEs of a‐PSCs in shaping the PDAC tumor microenvironment but also highlights that targeting SEs in a‐PSCs may become a gate‐opening strategy that benefits PDAC drug therapy by removing stromal barriers.
Manganese Catalyzed Oxidative Coupling of Aromatic Diamines and Alcohols with Aminoxyl Radicals in the Synthesis of Benzimidazoles
Authors: Han Hui , Xu Zhen‐Jiang , Wang Limin , Han Jianwei
Published: February 2024

We herein report a solvent‐free, oxidative coupling reaction of alcohols with aromatic diamines in air. 9‐Azabicyclo[3.3.1]nonan‐N‐oxyl (ABNO) in combination with a manganese(II) catalyst, serves to effectively promote the reaction, leading to the selective synthesis of 2‐substituted benzimidazoles and 1,2‐disubstituted benzimidazoles.
A Powerful Strategy for Synthesizing Block Copolymers via Bimetallic Synergistic Catalysis
Authors: Fu Xiang‐Yu , Yue Tian‐Jun , Ren Bai‐Hao , Wang Hai , Ren Wei‐Min , Lu Xiao‐Bing
Published: February 2024

Block copolymers, comprising polyether and polyolefin segments, are an important and promising category of functional materials. However, the lack of efficient strategies for the construction of polyether‐b‐polyolefin block copolymers have hindered the development of these materials. Herein, we propose a simple and efficient method to obtain various block copolymers through the copolymerization of epoxides and acrylates via bimetallic synergistic catalysis. The copolymerization of epoxides and acrylates proceeds in a sequence‐controlled manner, where the epoxides‐involved homo‐ or copolymerization occurs first, followed by the homopolymerization of acrylates initiated by the alkoxide species from the propagating polymer chain, thus yielding copolymers with a block structure. Notably, the high monomer compatibility of this powerful strategy provides a platform for synthesizing various polyacrylate‐based block copolymers comprising polyether, polycarbonate, polythiocarbonate, polyester, and polyurethane segments, respectively.
Dynamic Reversible Full‐Color Piezochromic Fluorogens Featuring Through‐Space Charge‐Transfer Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence and their Application as X‐Ray Imaging Scintillators
Authors: Yang Wei , Xie Chenlong , Chen Tianhao , Yin Xiaojun , Lin Qianqian , Gong Shaolong , Quan Zewei , Yang Chuluo
Published: February 2024

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) emitters featuring through‐space charge transfer (TSCT) can be excellent candidates for piezochromic luminescent (PCL) materials due to their structural dynamics. Spatial donor‐acceptor (D−A) stacking arrangements enable the modulation of inter‐ and intramolecular D−A interactions, as well as spatial charge transfer states, under varying pressure conditions. Herein, we demonstrate an effective approach toward dynamic reversible full‐color PCL materials with TSCT‐TADF characteristics. Their single crystals exhibit a full‐color‐gamut PCL process spanning a range of 170 nm. Moreover, the TSCT‐TADF‐PCL emitters display a unity photoluminescence quantum yield, and show promising application in X‐ray scintillator imaging.
Synthesis and Reactivity of a Dialane‐Bridged Diradical
Authors: Dhara Debabrata , Endres Lukas , Krummenacher Ivo , Arrowsmith Merle , Dewhurst Rian D. , Engels Bernd , Bertermann Rüdiger , Finze Maik , Demeshko Serhiy , Meyer Franc , Fantuzzi Felipe , Braunschweig Holger
Published: February 2024

Radicals of the lightest group 13 element, boron, are well established and observed in numerous forms. In contrast to boron, radical chemistry involving the heavier group 13 elements (aluminum, gallium, indium, and thallium) remains largely underexplored, primarily attributed to the formidable synthetic challenges associated with these elements. Herein, we report the synthesis and isolation of planar and twisted conformers of a doubly CAAC (cyclic alkyl(amino)carbene)‐radical‐substituted dialane. Extensive characterization through spectroscopic analyses and X‐ray crystallography confirms their identity, while quantum chemical calculations support their open‐shell nature and provide further insights into their electronic structures. The dialane‐connected diradicals exhibit high susceptibility to oxidation, as evidenced by electrochemical measurements and reactions with o‐chloranil and a variety of organic azides. This study opens a previously uncharted class of dialuminum systems to study, broadening the scope of diradical chemistry and its potential applications.
Rapid Characterization of Phospholipids from Biological Matrix Enabled by Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) Coated Slide Assisted Enrichment MALDI Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Huang Penghsuan , Zhang Hua , Liu Yuan , Li Lingjun
Published: February 2024

Lipidomic analysis of human serum is essential to monitor the individual's health status. Herein, we develop a facile strategy for rapid characterization of phospholipids in human serum via indium tin oxide (ITO) coated glass slide solid phase extraction MALDI mass spectrometry (ITO‐SPE‐MALDI‐MS). Phospholipid species are retained on ITO slide via solid phase extraction owing to the unique property of the ITO material; the measurement of phospholipid species from 1 μl human serum within 2 min is achievable. A comparison of ITO‐SPE strategy with conventional extraction methods was further carried out using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) and ion‐mobility mass spectrometry (IM‐MS), resulting in a comparable enrichment performance for the phospholipid analysis. Furthermore, rapid lipidomic profiling of serum samples from human colorectal cancer patients and cell lines was demonstrated. Our results indicate that ITO‐SPE‐MALDI‐MS provides a higher throughput strategy for the analysis of phospholipid species in complex biological mixtures, showcasing its potential for applications in the analysis of clinical biofluids.
Copper (II)‐azo sulfathiazole complex immobilized on UiO‐66‐NH2 (MOF) as a catalyst for the one‐pot synthesis of spiroindole‐pyranopyrazoles
Authors: Ghasempour Leila , Asghari Sakineh
Published: February 2024

In this work, a new metal–organic framework nanocatalyst (Cu@UIO‐66‐AST) has been prepared from UiO‐66‐NH2 through a post‐synthesis modification process. The Cu (II)@UIO‐66‐AST nanocatalyst formation was confirmed from TGA, FT‐IR, TEM, XRD, BET, CHN, ICP, SEM, EDS, and elemental analyses. The catalytic efficiency of the synthesized MOF (Cu@UIO‐66‐AST), as an acid Lewis, was investigated in the four‐component reaction of isatin, malononitrile, hydrazine, and dimethyl acetylene dicarboxylate and compared to UiO‐66‐NH2 (as a basic catalyst) and Cu (OAc)2 (as an acidic heterogeneous catalyst). The obtained results clearly show that Cu@UIO‐66‐AST has a higher catalytic activity (93%) than UiO‐66‐NH2 (13%) and Cu (OAc)2 (43%). It could be due to the increase of dispersibility of Cu2+ by the formation of several stable complexes between Cu2+ ions and functional groups of ligand AST (OH, C=N, NH, and C‐S) on the surface of the nanocatalyst. Also, the catalyst can be recycled and reused for up to eight subsequent runs without significant loss of activity.
A highly sensitive chemosensor based on a metal‐organic framework for determining zinc ions in cosmetics creams and wastewater
Authors: Abd El‐Fattah Wesam , Guesmi Ahlem , Ben Hamadi Naoufel , Khalil Muhammad A. , Shahat Ahmed
Published: February 2024

A novel chemosensor has been developed for the precise detection of Zn2+ in cosmetics creams and water samples, exhibiting remarkable accuracy. This new chemosensor is composed of NH2–UiO–MOF serving as the base MOF, with 2‐acetyl‐6‐bromopyridine acting as the ligand, referred to as the 2A6BrP=N–UiO–MOF chemosensor. Extensive studies have been conducted to optimize the spectrophotometric and fluorometric detection of Zn2+ ions using this new chemosensor. Achieving a consistent and stable spectroscopic signal with the 2A6BrP=N–UiO–MOF chemosensor necessitated a response time of less than 30 s. Validation of the proposed methods followed ICH (International Council for Harmonisation of Technical Requirements for Pharmaceuticals for Human Use) guidelines, ensuring precision in determining limits of detection (LODs), limits of quantification (LOQs), linearity, and precision. The spectrophotometric and fluorometric techniques yielded highly sensitive LOD values of 15.50 (ppb) and 8.70 ppb, respectively, for Zn2+ ions. Furthermore, research indicated that the 2A6BrP=N–UiO–MOF chemosensor can be efficiently recycled up to eight times by treating it with 0.1 M HCl, showcasing its potential for sustainability. Subsequently, the application of the 2A6BrP=N–UiO–MOF chemosensor demonstrated its remarkable efficacy in detecting Zn2+ in various real water samples. Its exceptional sensitivity and selectivity make it a valuable tool for accurate Zn2+ detection in practical environmental settings.
From information access to production: New perspectives on addressing information inequity in our digital information ecosystem
Authors: Peterson‐Salahuddin Chelsea
Published: February 2024

Changes in our informational environment have brought new challenges and opportunities to address systemic issues of information inequity. Thus, when addressing systemic issues of information inequity, it is important to address it not only from the perspective of information access, as it is often considered in information science, but also from the perspective of how information objects are constructed and produced. This essay brings concerns within information science into discussion with journalism studies and critical technology studies to consider: (1) how the production of information, through the case of mainstream journalism, can create information inequity within information representations, and (2) how the dissemination and retrieval of this journalistic information through algorithmically‐mediated online information systems, specifically social media and search platforms, can replicate and reinforce information inequity within a larger information ecosystem. Thus, this essay uses an interdisciplinary lens to suggest new approaches to holistically address information inequity, putting forth a conceptual framework with actionable steps to create a more equitable information ecosystem.
Stability criteria of random nonlinear systems with non‐instantaneous multiple impulse
Authors: Feng Likang , Liu Baoan , Wu Zhaojing
Published: February 2024

This paper comprehensively explores the stability analysis of random nonlinear systems subjected to random non‐instantaneous multiple impulses. The random non‐instantaneous multiple impulses refer to various impulsive intensities, with the type of impulse at each moment determined by a Markov chain. Drawing on the properties of stochastic processes, a series of stability criteria are developed for the random non‐instantaneous multiple impulsive systems within the constraint of fixed impulsive intervals. To validate the practicality of the proposed conceptual methods, the tracking control problem of network surface vessels under deception attacks is investigated, demonstrating feasibility through simulation results.
Recent advances in effect of crystallization dynamics process on the morphology of active layer in organic solar cells
Authors: Liang Qiuju , Duan Mingzhi , Liu Xingpeng , Zhu Haolei , Yang Kaiqi , Zhang Wen , Xin Jingming , Liu Jiangang
Published: February 2024

Organic solar cells (OSCs) have received widespread attention due to their light weight, low cost, semitransparency, and ease‐of‐solution processing. By continuously improving materials design, active layer morphology, and device fabrication techniques, the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of OSCs have exceeded 20%. The morphology of the active layer, which includes the phase separation structure, the degree of crystallinity of molecules, and the domain sizes, plays a critically important role in the performance, which is significantly influenced by the crystallization dynamics of the donor and acceptor. Therefore, it is crucial to comprehensively understand how the dynamics impact the film structure and how to effectively employ the kinetic procedure to enhance the structure of the active layer in OSCs. In this review, the methods and principles of kinetics characterization were introduced. Afterward, the latest advancements in the control of film‐forming and the post annealing process are outlined, unveiling the underlying mechanism. In conclusion, the potential and future of OSCs were anticipated and projected. Researchers may gain a comprehensive understanding of how dynamic process affects the morphology through this review, potentially enhancing the performance of OSCs.
Catechins prevent monoclonal antibody fragmentation during production via fed‐batch culture of Chinese hamster ovary cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Hiroko , Fukuda Mie , Sugita Yumi , Furuie Misaki , Nagano Ryuma , Suzawa Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Koichi , Wakamatsu Kaori
Published: February 2024

Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are widely used for the industrial production of therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). To meet the increasing market demands, high productivity, and quality are required in cell culture. One of the critical attributes of mAbs, from a safety perspective, is mAb fragmentation. However, methods for preventing mAbs fragmentation in CHO cell culture are limited. In this study, we observed that the antibody fragment content increased with increasing titers in fed‐batch cultures for all three cell lines expressing recombinant antibodies. Adding copper sulfate to the culture medium further increased the fragment content, suggesting the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the fragmentation process. Though antioxidants may be helpful to scavenge ROS, several antioxidants are reported to decrease the productivity of CHO cells. Among the antioxidants examined, we observed that the addition of catechin or (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate to the culture medium prevented fragmentation content by about 20% and increased viable cell density and titer by 30% and 10%, respectively. Thus, the addition of catechins or compounds of equivalent function would be beneficial for manufacturing therapeutic mAbs with a balance between high titers and good quality.
Chemical Profile and Biological Potential of Scaptotrigona Bee Products (Hymenoptera, Apidae, Meliponini): An Review
Authors: de Sousa Silveira Zildene , Silva Macêdo Nair , de Menezes Dantas Débora , Vieira Brito Samuel , Silva dos Santos Helcio , Regis de Sousa Gomes Renata Valéria , Douglas Melo Coutinho Henrique , Bezerra da Cunha Francisco Assis , Vanusa da Silva Márcia
Published: February 2024

Stingless bees belong to the Meliponini tribe and are widely distributed in the tropics and subtropics, where they perform important ecological services. Among the best distributed groups of stingless bees is the genus Scaptotrigona, which includes 22 species distributed throughout the neotropical region, including the area from Mexico to Argentina. Bees of this genus are responsible for the production of products such as honey, propolis, geopropolis and fermented pollen (“saburá”). This review aimed to provide an overview of the chemical composition and biological activities associated with derived products from stingless bees of the genus Scaptotrigona. The bibliographic review was carried out through searches in the Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and PubMed databases, including publications from 2003 to January 2023. The study of the chemodiversity of products derived from Scaptotrigona demonstrated the mainly presence of flavonoids, phenolic acids, terpenoids and alkaloids. It was also demonstrated that products derived from bees of the genus Scaptotrigona exhibit a wide range of biological effects, such as antibacterial, antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and antifungal activities, among other bioactivities. This review provides an overview of phytochemical and pharmacological investigations of the genus Scaptotrigona. However, it is essential to clarify the toxicity and food safety of these products.
Stent graft implantation from distal radial access—A novel way to treat femoral access site complication during transcatheter aortic valve replacement: A case report
Authors: Andréka Judit , Sasi Viktor , Tóth Gábor G. , Ruzsa Zoltán
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a case of an 82‐year‐old man who was admitted to our department with sever symptomatic degenerative aortic valve stenosis is presented and discussed. After all screening procedures, a successful transfemoral transcatheter aortic valve replacement was performed, but the closure of the femoral access was unsuccessful due to suture‐based device failure. We decided to perform a prolonged balloon dilatation and external compression at the bleeding site, but the bleeding did not stop; therefore, an iCover stent graft was implanted from distal radial artery access using slender technique. Following that, the bleeding was stopped, and the patient had an uneventful outcome.
Construction and Evaluation of Cheap and Robust Miniature Ag/AgCl Reference Electrodes for Aqueous and Organic Electrolytes
Authors: Lyu Yang , Mollik Patrick , Oláh Attila L. , Halter Dominik P.
Published: February 2024

Stable reference electrodes (REs) are crucial for reliable voltammetry, controlled potential electrosynthesis, or spectro‐electrochemistry. Yet, inferior pseudo‐REs, such as plain Ag wire are often used, because commercial REs are expensive, may degrade or contaminate under required conditions, or don't fit geometric restrictions of custom setups. Addressing such cases, we report construction, benchmarking and utilization of easy to make, cheap (<1 €), and robust miniature REs from pasteur pipettes, molecular sieve beads and Ag wire. Excellent potential precision and accuracy with at least 1 week device stability was obtained for aqueous Ag/AgCl REs with 3 M NaCl in H2O and anhydrous 0.1 M TBACl in MeCN inner‐electrolytes. Even in alkaline 1 M NaOH electrolyte, where initial Ag/AgCl REs quickly convert to Ag/Ag2O (1 M NaOH) REs, perfect potential precision, accuracy, and at least 1 week stability are demonstrated. According to experimental needs, miniature REs can be built with many organic and aqueous electrolytes. For these custom use‐cases, we report guidelines to calibrate absolute RE potential, and to assess device precision, accuracy and stability. Finally, electro‐hydrogenation of styrene on nickel electrodes exemplifies superiority of Ag/AgCl REs over Ag wire pseudo‐REs, affording more reliable electrolysis current, cell potential and potential dependent Faraday efficiency.
Co/CoO heterojunction rich in oxygen vacancies introduced by O2 plasma embedded in mesoporous walls of carbon nanoboxes covered with carbon nanotubes for rechargeable zinc–air battery
Authors: Ye Leijun , Chen Weiheng , Jiang Zhong‐Jie , Jiang Zhongqing
Published: February 2024

Herein, Co/CoO heterojunction nanoparticles (NPs) rich in oxygen vacancies embedded in mesoporous walls of nitrogen‐doped hollow carbon nanoboxes coupled with nitrogen‐doped carbon nanotubes (P–Co/CoOV@NHCNB@NCNT) are well designed through zeolite‐imidazole framework (ZIF‐67) carbonization, chemical vapor deposition, and O2 plasma treatment. As a result, the three‐dimensional NHCNBs coupled with NCNTs and unique heterojunction with rich oxygen vacancies reduce the charge transport resistance and accelerate the catalytic reaction rate of the P–Co/CoOV@NHCNB@NCNT, and they display exceedingly good electrocatalytic performance for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR, halfwave potential [EORR, 1/2 = 0.855 V vs. reversible hydrogen electrode]) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER, overpotential (ηOER, 10 = 377 mV@10 mA cm−2), which exceeds that of the commercial Pt/C + RuO2 and most of the formerly reported electrocatalysts. Impressively, both the aqueous and flexible foldable all‐solid‐state rechargeable zinc–air batteries (ZABs) assembled with the P–Co/CoOV@NHCNB@NCNT catalyst reveal a large maximum power density and outstanding long‐term cycling stability. First‐principles density functional theory calculations show that the formation of heterojunctions and oxygen vacancies enhances conductivity, reduces reaction energy barriers, and accelerates reaction kinetics rates. This work opens up a new avenue for the facile construction of highly active, structurally stable, and cost‐effective bifunctional catalysts for ZABs.
In Situ Fabrication of SnO2 Nanowalls for Robust Acetylene Sensing at Low Temperature
Authors: Zhang Chuantao , Yu Lingmin , He Xingyu , Shi Chao , Li Senlin , Zhao Fan , Fan Xinhui
Published: February 2024

Acetylene (C2H2) monitoring in real time and online is essential for erasing transformer risks and guaranteeing normal equipment operation and operator safety. This study examines the direct fabrication of ultrathin SnO2 nanowalls on Ag−Pd substrates using a simple solvothermal method that doesn′t demand the use of any additional motivators or templates. The thickness and shape of the nanowalls can be controlled by varying the cetyl trimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) concentration in the solvent. As observed, the gas sensor (SnO2‐3) fabricated by 2.4 g CTAB exhibits superior gas‐sensing features. This is primarily due to the hollow structure constructed by the arrangement of nanowalls, which delivers not only enough gas diffusion pathways but also enough reaction sites during the gas sensing processes. The findings suggest that low‐cost SnO2 nanowalls created using a straightforward procedure could be taken into consideration as prospective candidates for use in industrial C2H2 sensing applications.
Evaluation of the Effect of Polyethylenimine on Boron Adsorption by Soil Minerals
Authors: Ulatowska Justyna , Szewczuk‐Karpisz Katarzyna , Polowczyk Izabela
Published: February 2024

The removal of hazardous ions from water is crucial for safeguarding both the environment and human health. Soil minerals, integral components of soil, play a vital role as adsorbents for various contaminants, including heavy metal ions, organic dyes, and detergents. This study investigates the interaction between boron ions and soil minerals (gibbsite, kaolinite, and montmorillonite) in the presence of polyethylenimine (PEI). The minerals underwent characterization based on specific surface area, particle size distribution, zeta potential, and the presence of functional groups. The influence of PEI addition on the stability of the soil mineral suspension was evaluated by turbidimetry. Mineral−boron and mineral−boron−PEI interactions were explored under varying conditions, including pH, initial boron concentration, and mineral quantity, with all adsorption experiments conducted over 24 hours. Using the Langmuir isotherm, the maximum adsorption capacity of the studied minerals was determined for boron both without and in the presence of PEI. For gibbsite, kaolinite and montmorillonite, it was 30.63, 24.55 and 26.62 mg g−1, respectively, while in the presence of PEI, it increased to 33.11, 26.61 and 45.47 mg g−1, respectively. The addition of PEI enhanced boron adsorption from aqueous solutions, increasing the removal efficiency from 65 % to about 80 %.
Evaluation of Urease and Nitrification Inhibitors in Western Canada
Authors: Bremer Eric , Ellert Ben , Beres Brian , Wang Zhijie
Published: February 2024

The recovery of fertilizer nitrogen by crops in the year of application is usually cited as being about 50%, despite considerable efforts to improve nitrogen efficiencies in agricultural systems. The use of fertilizer additives containing urease and/or nitrification inhibitors may improve fertilizer N efficiency. This was evaluated in four experiments conducted at multiple locations across the Canadian Prairies. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Nutrient Management by reading the article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Human access constrains optimal foraging and habitat availability in an avian generalist
Authors: Masto Nicholas M. , Blake‐Bradshaw Abigail G. , Highway Cory J. , Keever Allison C. , Feddersen Jamie C. , Hagy Heath M. , Cohen Bradley S.
Published: February 2024

Animals balance costs of antipredator behaviors with resource acquisition to minimize hunting and other mortality risks and maximize their physiological condition. This inherent trade‐off between forage abundance, its quality, and mortality risk is intensified in human‐dominated landscapes because fragmentation, habitat loss, and degradation of natural vegetation communities is often coupled with artificially enhanced vegetation (i.e., food plots), creating high‐risk, high‐reward resource selection decisions. Our goal was to evaluate autumn–winter resource selection trade‐offs for an intensively hunted avian generalist. We hypothesized human access was a reliable cue for hunting predation risk. Therefore, we predicted resource selection patterns would be spatiotemporally dependent upon levels of access and associated perceived risk. Specifically, we evaluated resource selection of local‐scale flights between diel periods for 426 mallards (Anas platyrhynchos) relative to wetland type, forage quality, and differing levels of human access across hunting and nonhunting seasons. Mallards selected areas that prohibited human access and generally avoided areas that allowed access diurnally, especially during the hunting season. Mallards compensated by selecting for high‐energy and greater quality foraging patches on allowable human access areas nocturnally when they were devoid of hunters. Postseason selection across human access gradients did not return to prehunting levels immediately, perhaps suggesting a delayed response to reacclimate to nonhunted activities and thus agreeing with the assessment mismatch hypothesis. Last, wetland availability and human access constrained selection for optimal natural forage quality (i.e., seed biomass and forage productivity) diurnally during preseason and hunting season, respectively; however, mallards were freed from these constraints nocturnally during hunting season and postseason periods. Our results suggest risk‐avoidance of human accessible (i.e., hunted) areas is a primary driver of resource selection behaviors by mallards and could be a local to landscape‐level process influencing distributions, instead of forage abundance and quality, which has long‐been assumed by waterfowl conservation planners in North America. Broadly, even an avian generalist, well adapted to anthropogenic landscapes, avoids areas where hunting and human access are allowed. Future conservation planning and implementation must consider management for recreational access (i.e., people) equally important as foraging habitat management for wintering waterfowl.
A multi‐modal assessment of fear conditioning in adolescent anorexia nervosa
Authors: Murray Stuart B. , Strober Michael , Le Grange Daniel , Schauer Rebecca , Craske Michelle G. , Zbozinek Tomislav D.
Published: February 2024

Objective

Anorexia nervosa (AN) is a pernicious psychiatric disorder which is principally characterized by a fear of weight gain. Notwithstanding the centrality of fear in the psychopathology of AN, controlled assessments of negative valence systems are lacking. Herein we assess fear conditioning in adolescent females with AN.

Method

Adolescent girls (Mage = 14.6 years, ±1.57) with DSM‐5 diagnoses of AN (N = 25) and age‐matched control girls (Mage = 14.8 years, ±1.46) with no DSM‐5 diagnoses (N = 25) completed structured clinical interviews and participated in a classical three‐phase Pavlovian fear conditioning paradigm. Participants with comorbid anxiety disorders were excluded. Skin conductance response (SCR) was measured, alongside self‐reported fear, valence, and fear expectancy ratings.

Results

Both groups demonstrated significant differential acquisition across all four measures. Regarding group comparisons, no differences emerged for self‐reported fear, valence, and fear expectancy ratings during acquisition, although for SCR, those with AN demonstrated reduced physiological arousal relative to controls. Both groups demonstrated significant differential extinction for unconditioned stimuli (US) expectancy, self‐report fear, and self‐report valence. No statistically significant group differences were evident during extinction to the conditioned stimuli (CS)+, on any outcome measure. However, controls reported more positive valence to the CS− than those with AN.

Conclusions

Contrary to our hypotheses, our preliminary assessment did not find support for elevated fear responding among adolescent girls with AN with regards to fear acquisition or extinction. These data suggest that AN in adolescent girls may not be associated with a heightened propensity to acquire fear, but conversely, may suggest that exposure treatments for AN may be helpful, since extinction learning is intact in AN.

Public significance

AN is characterized by fear‐related symptoms, including food and weight‐related fear, and behavioral avoidance, yet controlled studies assessing fear learning are limited. Our preliminary assessment of adolescent AN indicates no abnormalities in fear learning among adolescents with AN. These findings may inform existing mechanistic models of AN psychopathology, and the development of exposure‐based treatments for AN.
Blood meal metabarcoding of the argasid tick (Ornithodoros turicata Dugès) reveals extensive vector‐host associations
Authors: Balasubramanian Sujata , Busselman Rachel E. , Fernandez‐Santos Nadia A. , Grunwald Andrew P. , Wolff Nicholas , Hathaway Nicholas , Hillhouse Andrew , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Teel Pete D. , Ferreira Francisco C. , Hamer Sarah A. , Hamer Gabriel L.
Published: February 2024

Molecular methods to understand host feeding patterns of arthropod vectors are critical to assess exposure risk to vector‐borne disease and unveil complex ecological interactions. We build on our prior work discovering the utility of PCR‐Sanger sequencing blood meal analysis that work well for soft ticks (Acari: Argasidae), unlike for hard ticks (Acari: Ixodidae), thanks to their unique physiology that retains prior blood meals for years. Here, we apply blood meal metabarcoding using amplicon deep sequencing to identify multiple host species in individual Ornithodoros turicata soft ticks collected from two natural areas in Texas, United States. Of 788 collected O. turicata, 394 were evaluated for blood meal source via metabarcoding, revealing 27 different vertebrate hosts (17 mammals, five birds, one reptile, and four amphibians) fed upon by 274 soft ticks. Information on multiple hosts was derived from 167 individual O. turicata (61%). Metabarcoding revealed mixed vertebrate blood meals in O. turicata while same specimens yielded only one vertebrate species using Sanger sequencing. These data reveal wide host range of O. turicata and demonstrate the value of blood meal metabarcoding for understanding the ecology for known and potential tick‐borne pathogens circulating among humans, domestic animals, and wildlife such as relapsing fever caused by Borrelia turicatae. Our results also document evidence of prior feeding on wild pig from an off‐host soft tick for the first time in North America; a critical observation in the context of enzootic transmission of African swine fever virus if it were introduced to the US. This research enhances our understanding of vector‐host associations and offers a promising perspective for biodiversity monitoring and disease control strategies.
Simple and Efficient Method for Mono‐ and Di‐Amination of Polypyridine N‐Oxides
Authors: Verbeet Wessel , Husiev Yurii , Bonnet Sylvestre
Published: February 2024

Herein we report a simple synthetic route towards both known and novel aminated polypyridyl ligands. The use of tosyl chloride in combination with potassium phthalimide followed by hydrolysis allows for chemo–selective ortho–amination of (poly)pyridyl mono‐ and di‐N‐oxides with good to excellent yield. The reactions are scalable and reproducible while using inexpensive, commercially available reagents.
Harnessing solar power with aesthetic innovation: An in‐depth study on spherical and hemispherical photovoltaic configurations
Authors: Almadhhachi Mensour , Seres István , Farkas István
Published: February 2024

In pursuing advancing solar energy systems, this research uniquely occupies a position at the intersection of photovoltaic (PV) efficiency, innovative design and aesthetic integration into urban landscapes. This study explores the potential of thin solar cells applied to spherical and hemispherical surfaces and the influence of temperature variations throughout the day. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of voltage–current diagrams, the study deciphers the intricate interconnections of spherical geometries and their response to external thermal impacts, elucidating their subsequent effects on energy conversion efficiency. Moreover, it delved into the dynamics of connecting multiple spherical modules, unveiling their potential to form artistic and utilitarian constructs such as solar trees and architectural embellishments. The findings indicate that while spherical configurations provide superior aesthetics and a power generation profile comparable to solar tracking systems, hemispherical configurations offer a 32% increase in efficiency compared with the spherical configuration and a notable reduction in land footprint. This research underscores the importance of striking a balance between aesthetic appeal, efficiency and land utilization, providing valuable insights for the future of PV technology integration into urban and agricultural landscapes.
Energy management control strategies for energy storage systems of hybrid electric vehicle: A review
Authors: Veerendra Arigela Satya , Mohamed Mohd Rusllim Bin , García Márquez Fausto Pedro
Published: February 2024

Continuous efforts to preserve the environment and to reduce gaseous emissions due to the massive growth of urban economic development and heightened concerns over crude oil depletion have accelerated researchers to find long‐term solutions, particularly in the transportation sector with the focus on powertrain electrification. This article delivers a comprehensive overview of electric vehicle architectures, energy storage systems, and motor traction power. Subsequently, it emphasizes different charge equalization methodologies of the energy storage system. This work's contribution can be identified in two points: first, providing an overview of different energy management methods to researchers and scholars. Second, to highlight the state‐of‐the‐art leanings in major components and to highlight promising approaches to hybrid electric vehicle future development.
Supply energy management methods for a direct current microgrid: A comprehensive review
Authors: Varshnry Arpit , Lather Jagdeep Singh , Dahiya Anil Kumar
Published: February 2024

The revolution of microgrids (MGs) in the modern world has impacted the power systems to deal with the loads with optimal use of renewable energy resources (RERs). In the models consisting of energy management systems (EMS) and generation sources, there will be power fluctuations between the source and the load under certain conditions due to the unpredictable behavior of RERs. Therefore, a reliable scheme has to be implemented between the source and the load to ensure optimal performance of direct current (DC)‐MGs. This article has presented a review of the EMS models introduced by various researchers to enable optimal power supply and efficient operation of the DC‐MGs. A thorough illustration of the schemes adopted to provide efficient operations under grid‐connected and islanded mode of operations are provided. The effects and advantages of centralized and decentralized EMSs are discussed. The role of a battery energy storage system (BESS) in microgrid scheduling is presented and compared with a few other energy storage systems. The scheduling strategies implemented for optimal EMS using different algorithms and techniques are elaborated. In addition, the effects of battery degradation and the formulated solutions to improve the degraded models with improved battery life are also provided with cycle life and calendar life. Then, the lithium ion and lead acid BESS effect on microgrid EMS is presented. Finally, the energy management methods for DC‐MGs end with challenges, research gaps, and future direction.
Analytical solutions of triple‐diffusive magnetohydrodynamic fluid flowing through a stretching/shrinking sheet
Authors: Sangamesh  , Y. Vinod , Raghunatha K. R. , Nagappanavar Suma Nagendrappa
Published: February 2024

The aim of this article is to investigate the dual nature solutions of the triple diffusive magnetohydrodynamic flow due to stretching/shrinking surfaces. The system of nonlinear partial differential equations is transformed into nonlinear ordinary differential equations with the help of compatible transforms. Analytical dual solutions are obtained for every unknown velocity, temperature, and concentration profile in terms of known physical parameters. Heat and mass transfer analyses have been carried out in the presence of convective boundary conditions. The graphic interpretation of the possible dual solutions of dimensionless velocity, temperature, concentration, skin‐friction coefficient, and Nusselt and Sherwood numbers is analyzed under the influence of different known physical parameters. The obtained results are validated against previously published results for a special case of the problem.
Vitamin D improves autoimmune diseases by inhibiting Wnt signaling pathway
Authors: Zou Minshu , Song Qiuju , Yin Taiyong , Xu Hongtao , Nie Guoming
Published: February 2024

Objective

In this study, we investigated the development of the Wnt signaling pathway in vitamin D (VitD) to improve systemic lupus erythematosus in mice to breakthrough clinical treatment approaches.

Methods

Body weight changes were recorded during rearing. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), anti‐dsDNA, and anti‐snRNP were detected in the mouse serum using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Apoptosis of Th1 and Th2 immune cells in mice was detected using flow cytometry. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was used to detect the expression of T‐bet, GATA3, and Wnt3a mRNA in the spleens of each group. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the expression of Wnt1, p‐β‐catenin, β‐catenin, glycogen synthase kinsase3β (GSK‐3β), Wnt3a, c‐myc, and cyclin D1 protein in mice spleens. β‐catenin in mice spleen was visualized using immunohistochemistry.

Results

VitD did not substantial reduce the body weight of MRL/LPR mice, whereas the inhibitor did. VitD notably decreased the concentrations of ANA, anti‐double‐stranded DNA, and anti‐snRNP in the serum of MRL/LPR mice and alleviated apoptosis of Th1 and Th2 cells. VitD markedly increased the expression of T‐bet and GATA mRNA in the spleen of MRL/LPR mice and consequently increased the levels of Wnt3a and β‐catenin. Western blot analysis revealed that the levels of GSK‐3β, p‐β‐catenin, Wnt1, Wnt3a, c‐myc, and cyclin D1 could be reduced by VitD, compared with MRL/LPR. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated that the expression of β‐catenin was the most pronounced in the spleen of MRL/LPR mice, and the expression level of β‐catenin decreased substantially after VitD intervention.

Conclusions

VitD can further inhibit the nuclear translocation of β‐catenin by downregulating the expression of Wnt ligands (Wnt1 and Wnt3a), which reduces the expression of the downstream target gene cyclin D1. Systemic lupus erythematosus in mice was improved by inhibiting the activation of Wnt/β‐catenin signal pathway.
A novel predictive model for noninvasively diagnosing bladder outlet obstruction in female patients based on clinical features and uroflowmetry parameters
Authors: Cheng Yu , Li Taicheng , Wu Xiaoyu , Du Guanghui , Xu Shengfei
Published: February 2024

Objective

To develop and validate a simple prediction model to diagnose female bladder outlet obstruction (fBOO) because of the invasive nature of standard urodynamic studies (UDS) for diagnosing fBOO.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the data of 728 women who underwent UDS at Tongji Hospital between 2011 and 2021. The definition of fBOO was Pdet.Qmax − 2.2 × Qmax > 5 (BOOIf > 5). Independent predictive factors of fBOO were determined by multivariable logistic regression analysis. These predictive factors were incorporated into a predictive model to assess the risk of fBOO.

Results

Of the 728 patients, 249 (34.2%) were identified as having fBOO and these women were randomly assigned to two groups, a model development group and a model validation group. Multivariate logistic regression demonstrated that age, Qmax, flow time, and voiding efficiency were independent risk factors for fBOO. The predictive model of fBOO showed a satisfactory performance, with area under the curve being 0.811 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.771–0.850, P < 0.001), which was confirmed to be 0.820 (95% CI 0.759–0.882, P < 0.001) with external validation. The calibration curve indicated that the predicted probability had an excellent correspondence to observed frequency. Decision curve analysis demonstrated a greater clinical net benefit compared with the strategies of treat all or treat none when the predicted risk was in a range of 3% and 75%.

Conclusion

A novel predictive model of fBOO was developed and validated based on clinical features and noninvasive test parameters in female patients with lower urinary tract symptoms. The model is a quick and easy‐to‐use tool to assess the risk of fBOO for urologists in their routine practice without an invasive UDS.
Assisted reproductive technology treatment failure and the detection of intrauterine HPV through spent embryo transfer media sample
Authors: Bai Mingzhu , Sun Di , Shu Jinhui , Wei Dong , Yuan Mu , Yuan Zhenya , Liu Suying , Kang Mei , Zhang Zikai , Chen Xiong , Zheng Wenxin , Feng Youji , Bao Shihua , Zhang Zhenbo , Liao Hong
Published: February 2024

Cervical human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is believed to increase the risks of pregnancy failure and abortion, however, whether the uterine cavity HPV infection reduces pregnancy rate or increases miscarriage rate remains unclarified in infertile women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment. Therefore, we aimed to assess ART outcomes in the presence of intrauterine HPV. This was a hospital‐based multicenter (five reproductive medicine centers) matched cohort study. This study involved 4153 infertile women undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF) or intracytoplasmic sperm injection treatment in five reproductive medicine centers between October 2018 and 2020. The spent embryo transfer media sample with endometrium tissue were collected and performed with flow‐through hybridization and gene chips to detect HPV DNA. According to basic characteristics, HPV‐positive and negative patients were matched in a ratio of 1:4 by age, body mass index transfer timing, transfer type, and number of embryos transferred. The primary outcome was pregnancy and clinical miscarriage rates in the transfer cycle underwent HPV detection. 92 HPV‐positive and 368 HPV‐negative patients were screened and analyzed statistically. Univariate analysis showed uterine cavity HPV infection resulted in lower rates of ongoing pregnancy (31.5% vs. 44.6%; p = 0.023), implantation (32.3% vs. 43.1%; p = 0.026), biochemical pregnancy (47.8% vs. 62.5%; p = 0.010), and clinical pregnancy (40.2% vs. 54.3%; p = 0.015) compared with HPV negative group. The infertile female with positive HPV also had a slightly higher frequency of biochemical miscarriage (15.9% vs. 13.0%; p = 0.610) and clinical miscarriage (24.3% vs. 15.5%; p = 0.188). These findings suggest that HPV infection in the uterine cavity is a high risk for ART failure. HPV screening is recommended before ART treatment, which may be benefit to improving pregnancy outcome.