bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A PAI‐1 antagonist ameliorates hypophosphatemia in the Hyp vitamin D‐resistant rickets model mouse
Authors: Qian Cheng , Ito Nobuaki , Tsuji Kunikazu , Sato Shingo , Kikuchi Katsushi , Yoshii Toshitaka , Miyata Toshio , Asou Yoshinori
Published: December 2023

Congenital fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)‐related hypophosphatemic rickets/osteomalacia is a rare bone metabolism disorder characterized by hypophosphatemia and caused by genetic abnormalities that result in excessive secretion of FGF23. Hyp mice are a model of X‐linked hypophosphatemia (XLH) caused by deletion of the PHEX gene and excessive production of FGF23. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of TM5614 as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of congenital FGF23‐related hypophosphatemic rickets and osteomalacia in humans by administering TM5614 to Hyp mice and examining its curative effect on hypophosphatemia. After a single oral administration of TM5614 10 mg·kg−1 to female Hyp mice starting at 17 weeks of age, the serum phosphate concentration increased with a peak at 6 h after administration. ELISA confirmed that TM5614 administration decreased the intact FGF23 concentration in the blood. Expression of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D‐1α‐hydroxylase protein encoded by Cyp27b1 mRNA in the kidney was suppressed in Hyp mice, and treatment with 10 mg·kg−1 of TM5614 normalized the expression of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D‐1α‐hydroxylase protein and Cyp27b1 mRNA in the kidneys of these mice. Our data indicate that oral administration of TM5614 ameliorates hypophosphatemia in Hyp mice, suggesting that TM5614 may be an effective treatment for congenital FGF23‐related hypophosphatemic rickets and osteomalacia.
Toward Clean 2D Materials and Devices: Recent Progress in Transfer and Cleaning Methods
Authors: Dong Wenlong , Dai Zhaohe , Liu Luqi , Zhang Zhong
Published: December 2023

Two‐dimensional (2D) materials have tremendous potential to revolutionize the field of electronics and photonics. Unlocking such potential, however, is hampered by the presence of contaminants that usually impede the performance of 2D materials in devices. This perspective provides an overview of recent efforts to develop clean 2D materials and devices. It begins by discussing conventional and recently developed wet and dry transfer techniques and their effectiveness in maintaining material “cleanliness”. Multi‐scale methodologies for assessing the cleanliness of 2D material surfaces and interfaces are then reviewed. Finally, recent advances in passive and active cleaning strategies are presented, including the unique self‐cleaning mechanism, thermal annealing, and mechanical treatment that rely on self‐cleaning in essence. The crucial role of interface wetting in these methods is emphasized, and it is hoped that this understanding can inspire further extension and innovation of efficient transfer and cleaning of 2D materials for practical applications.
High‐Performance and Ecofriendly Organic Thermoelectrics Enabled by N‐Type Polythiophene Derivatives with Doping‐Induced Molecular Order
Authors: Deng Sihui , Kuang Yazhuo , Liu Liyao , Liu Xinyu , Liu Jian , Li Jingyu , Meng Bin , Di Chong‐an , Hu Junli , Liu Jun
Published: December 2023

The ability of n‐type polymer thermoelectric materials to tolerate high doping loading limits further development of n‐type polymer conductivity. Herein, two alcohol‐soluble n‐type polythiophene derivatives that are n‐PT3 and n‐PT4 are reported. Due to the ability of two polymers to tolerate doping loading more significantly than 100 mol%, both achieve electrical conductivity >100 S cm−1. Moreover, the conductivity of both polythiophenes remains almost constant at high doping concentrations with excellent doping tunability, which may be related to their ability to overcome charging‐induced backbone torsion and morphology change caused by saturated doping. The characterizations reveal that n‐PT4 has a high doping level and carrier concentration (>3.10 × 1020 cm−3), and the carrier concentration continues to increase as the doping concentration increases. In addition, doping leads to improved crystal structure of n‐PT4, and the crystallinity does not decrease significantly with increasing doping concentration; even the carrier mobility increases with it. The synergistic effect of these two leads to both n‐PT3 and n‐PT4 achieving a breakthrough of 100 in conductivity and power factor. The DMlmC‐doped n‐PT4 achieves a power factor of over 150 µW m−1 K−2. These values are among the highest for n‐type organic thermoelectric materials.
In Situ Metal‐Oxygen‐Hydrogen Modified B‐Tio2@Co2P‐X S‐Scheme Heterojunction Effectively Enhanced Charge Separation for Photo‐assisted Uranium Reduction
Authors: Zhang Fucheng , Dong Huanhuan , Li Yi , Fu Dengjiang , Yang Lu , Shang Yupeng , Li Qiuyang , Shao Yuwen , Gang Wu , Ding Tao , Chen Tao , Zhu Wenkun
Published: December 2023

Photo‐assisted uranium reduction from uranium mine wastewater is expected to overcome the competition between impurity ions and U(VI) in the traditional process. Here, B‐TiO2@Co2P‐X S‐scheme heterojunction with metal‐oxygen‐hydrogen (M‐O‐H) is developed insitu modification for photo‐assisted U(VI) (hexavalent uranium) reduction. Relying on the DFT calculation and Hard‐Soft‐Acid‐Base (HSAB) theory, the introduction of metal‐oxygen‐hydrogen (M‐O‐H, hard base) metallic bonds in the B‐TiO2@Co2P‐X is found to enhance the hydrophilicity and the capture capability for uranyl ion (hard acid). Accordingly, B‐TiO2@Co2P‐500 hybrid nanosheets exhibit excellent U(VI) reduction ability (>98%) in the presence of competing ions. By self‐consistent energy band calculations and in‐situ KPFM spectral analysis, the formation of the internal electric field between B‐TiO2 and Co2P at the heterojunction is proven, offering a strong driving force and atomic transportation highway for accelerating the S‐scheme charge carriers directed migration and promoting the photocatalytic reduction of uranium. This work provides a valuable route to explore the functionally modified photocatalyst with high‐efficiency photoelectron separation for U(VI) reduction.
Threats to aquatic biodiversity and possible management strategies in Lake Victoria
Authors: Muthoka Mavindu , Ogello Erick O. , Outa Nicholas O. , Ouko Kevin O. , Obiero Kevin O. , Mboya Jimmy B. , Mukaburu Bramwel O.
Published: December 2023

Lake Victoria is the second‐largest freshwater lake in the world, with a surface area of 68,800 km2. The lake is rich in natural resources that are essential to the local economy and livelihoods. However, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) ranks 76% of freshwater species endemic to the Lake Victoria Basin as threatened with extinction. The biodiversity richness of the lake is still diminishing, and the risk of species extinction is increasing. Many species are yet to be identified, and thus the number of species threatened with extinction exceeds what is currently known. Furthermore, the lake is home to species that are found nowhere else on the planet, but its protection is never given the attention it needs. Genetic diversity loss is harmful to future populations and influences sustainability of the ecosystem. The decline in Lake Victoria's biodiversity is primarily attributed to various pressing issues, including water pollution, invasive species, climate change, overexploitation and the challenges stemming from high human population density. These problems are exacerbated by inadequate regulatory enforcement and a lack of comprehensive data and information to inform and guide conservation efforts. If these factors are not addressed, they may have a detrimental impact on Lake Biodiversity. This article aims to document the main threats to aquatic biodiversity as well as potential management strategies for preventing further losses of the aquatic biodiversity in Lake Victoria. The study recommends reviewing, bolstering and reinforcing the rules and regulations governing the extraction, accessibility and discharge of nutrients into the lake. The national governments should work with local governments, non‐governmental organizations and local people to safeguard and conserve the lake's biodiversity. The national governments of the riparian nations should also reserve funds each fiscal year specifically for research that would inform effective management measures to prevent further losses of the lake's biodiversity.
Hatchery capacity needed to support large‐scale Atlantic surfclam fishery enhancement
Authors: Gilsinan Caela B. , Borsetti Sarah , Munroe Daphne M. , Scheld Andrew M.
Published: December 2023

Fishery enhancement methods are being explored globally to sustain commercial and recreational fisheries through improving the productivity and management of marine populations impacted by anthropogenic stressors. It is expected that access to important Atlantic surfclam fishing grounds will be limited or lost due to growing overlap with offshore wind energy development. This study explores the economic viability of large‐scale hatchery production to improve fishery access and potentially offset additional costs, reduced revenues and potential job losses associated with the displacement of the fishing fleet. Reports and primary literature were used to understand the growth and survival of Atlantic surfclams in hatchery and nursery settings to calculate the scale of hatchery efforts needed to support one million (1M) bushels of fishery‐sized clams (>120 mm). Data on labour, energy, construction and material inputs and costs for hatchery and nursery production were gathered by analysing available literature and information provided by hatchery managers, researchers and others knowledgeable about shellfish hatchery production. A techno‐economic cost model and Monte Carlo analyses were employed to explore average costs and their variability. This study suggests that 374M–2.1B Atlantic surfclams are needed at the end of the hatchery stage to produce 1M bushels of market‐sized product. Total production costs range from $3.7 to $15.1M, including $2.9–$13.3M in hatchery costs and $800K–$1.9M in nursery costs. Under current market conditions, where Atlantic surfclams regularly sell for $14–$17/bushel, this analysis suggests that hatchery production could be considered a viable fishery enhancement method that supports human access to the fishery, though several additional questions remain.
Mongolitria: A new Early Cretaceous three‐valved seed from Northeast Asia
Authors: Bickner Maya A. , Herrera Fabiany , Shi Gongle , Ichinnorov Niiden , Crane Peter R. , Herendeen Patrick S.
Published: December 2023

Premise

Fossil seeds recovered from the Early Cretaceous of Mongolia and Inner Mongolia, China, are described and assigned to Mongolitria gen. nov., a new genus of gymnosperm seed.

Methods

Abundant lignitized seeds along with compression specimens isolated from the matrix were studied using a combination of scanning electron microscopy, anatomical sectioning, light microscopy, synchrotron radiation X‐ray microtomography, and cuticle preparations. A single permineralized seed was examined by light microscopy of cellulose acetate peels and X‐ray microtomography.

Results

Two species are recognized, Mongolitria friisae sp. nov. and Mongolitria exesum sp. nov. Both seeds are orthotropous with a short apical micropyle and a small, basal, circular attachment scar. The thick sclerenchymatous integument has a consistently three‐parted organization and about 20 conspicuous longitudinal ribs on the surface. Mongolitria exesum differs from M. friisae primarily in its much larger size and thicker seed coat, which also preserves clear evidence of insect damage.

Conclusions

Mongolitria is similar to other fossil seeds that have been assigned to Cycadales, but displays a unique combination of characters not found in any living or extinct cycadaceous plant, leaving its higher‐level systematic affinities uncertain. Germination apparently involved splitting of the integument into three valves. Mongolitria was prominent among the plant parts accumulating in peat swamps in eastern Asia during the Early Cretaceous.
Sequential Hydroperoxylation and Amberlyst‐15 Catalyzed Hock‐type Rearrangement of Spiroepoxy/Spiroaziridine Oxindoles for the Synthesis of 2‐Hydroxybenzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐3(4H)‐ones
Authors: Saleh S. K. Abu , Mondal Ananda Shankar , Senapati Swarup , Hajra Saumen
Published: December 2023

A sequential one‐pot direct strategy for the synthesis of 2‐hydroxy‐2‐substituted‐2H‐benzo[b][1,4]oxazin‐3(4H)‐ones is developed under ambient conditions with moderate to good yields (up to 75 %) by regioselective ring‐opening of spiro‐epoxy/aziridine oxindoles with 50 % aq. H2O2 followed by rearrangement reaction in presence of amberlyst‐15 catalyst. Further, sequential reaction with aldehydes/ketones and carbonyldiimidazole (CDI) gave spiro[benzo[b][1,4]oxazine‐2,4′‐[1,3]dioxolan]‐3(4H)‐ones and spiro[benzo[b][1,4]oxazine‐2,4′‐[1,3]dioxolane]‐2′,3(4H)‐diones, respectively.
Nonfullerene Acceptor Featuring Unique Self‐Regulation Effect for Organic Solar Cells with 19 % Efficiency
Authors: Liu Feng , Jiang Yuanyuan , Xu Renjie , Su Wenli , Wang Shijie , Zhang Yaogang , Liu Kerui , Xu Shengjie , Zhang Wenkai , Yi Yuanping , Ma Wei , Zhu Xiaozhang
Published: December 2023

The blend nanomorphology of electron‐donor (D) and ‐acceptor (A) materials is of vital importance to achieving highly efficient organic solar cells. Exogenous additives especially aromatic additives are always needed to further optimize the nanomorphology of blend films, which is hardly compatible with industrial manufacture. Herein, we proposed a unique approach to meticulously modulate the aggregation behavior of NFAs in both crystal and thin film nanomorphology via self‐regulation effect. Nonfullerene acceptor Z9 was designed and synthesized by tethering phenyl groups on the inner side chains of the Y6 backbone. Compared with Y6, the tethered phenyl groups participated in the molecular aggregation via the π–π stacking of phenyl‐phenyl and phenyl‐2‐(5,6‐difluoro‐3‐oxo‐2,3‐dihydro‐1H‐inden‐1‐ylidene)malononitrile (IC‐2F) groups, which induced 3D charge transport with phenyl‐mediated super‐exchange electron coupling. Moreover, ordered molecular packing with suitable phase separation was observed in Z9‐based blend films. High power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 19.0 % (certified PCE of 18.6 %) for Z9‐based devices were achieved without additives, indicating the great potential of the self‐regulation strategy in NFA design.
Broadening the life course framework: the implications of the Charter for the Rights of Children yet to be Conceived proposed by First 1000 Days Australia
Authors: Arabena Kerry
Published: December 2023

This article examines the unique propositions within the ‘Charter for the Rights of Children yet to be Conceived’ posited by First 1000 Days Australia. It argues that the Charter's pioneering focus on preconception conditions significantly broadens the life‐course framework for early childhood, challenging traditional rights frameworks that typically commence at birth. The Charter's tenets, their implications, and their relation to international rights frameworks are also discussed. The Charter for the Rights of Children yet to be Conceived expands the landscape within which family therapists can explore not just cultural inclusivity, but an inclusion of imagining what sort of world, future, and family we want for children yet to be conceived; and what we imagine these children would want from us for this to be achieved.
A labeling study of dentin formation rates during crown and root growth of porcine mandibular first molars
Authors: Emken Simon , Witzel Carsten , Kierdorf Uwe , Frölich Kai , Kierdorf Horst
Published: December 2023

We used fluorochrome labeling to study spatiotemporal variation of dentin apposition (DAR) and extension (DER) rates during crown and root formation of mandibular first molars from wild boar and domestic pigs. DAR was reconstructed along the course of dentinal tubules in four zones of the crown and in the upper root area. In all five zones, mean DAR increased during the first 30% to 40% of apposition, reaching highest values (22–23 μm/day) in the upper‐lateral crown zone. Lowest values were recorded near the dentin‐pulp interface (DPI). Typically, DARs in contemporaneously formed dentin areas were higher in more cuspally compared to more cervically/apically located zones. DER was high (>200 μm/day) in early postnatal crown dentin and then decreased markedly in cervical direction, with lowest values in the cervical crown zone. After this nadir, DER sharply increased in the upper 30% to 40% of the root extension, reaching values equaling (wild boar) or even surpassing (domestic pigs) those recorded in the upper lateral crown. After this peak, DER again decreased. While DAR did not differ markedly between wild boar and domestic pigs, the DER showed marked differences, both regarding maximum values (208.1 μm/day in wild boar, 272.2 μm/day in domestic pigs) and the timing of the root growth spurt, which occurred earlier in the domestic pigs. We consider the more rapid recruitment of secretory odontoblasts in domestic pigs (reflected by higher DER) a side effect of selection for rapid body growth during pig domestication.
Stochastic linear quadratic optimal control problem with terminal state constraints
Authors: Wang Hongxia , Hu Yuxi , Liu Yihang , Xu Zhihao , Song Lianfeng
Published: December 2023

This paper addresses the stochastic linear quadratic (LQ) control problem with first‐ and second‐order moment constraints on the terminal state. The problem is a modified version of the optimal covariance control problem, where the terminal state is steered to a given probability distribution. Studying a multiplicative‐noise stochastic system rather than an additive‐noise system is a salient feature. Unlike the existing ideas in the optimal steering, by using the Lagrange multipliers method and establishing the stochastic maximum principle, our problem is converted into solving forward–backward stochastic difference equations (FBSDEs), which is a special stochastic two‐point boundary‐value problem (TPBVP). We provide the optimal closed‐loop controller and necessary and sufficient solvability conditions by developing a nonhomogeneous relationship between the optimal state and costate in FBSDEs. Finally, numerical examples are given to demonstrate our results.
Corneal structural alterations in autism spectrum disorder: An in vivo confocal microscopy study
Authors: Chien Yi‐Ling , Wu Po‐Ying , Wu Jo‐Hsuan , Huang Wei‐Lun , Hsiao Chia‐Chieh , Hsieh Yi‐Ting , Cheng Ting , Gau Susan Shur‐Fen , Chen Wei‐Li
Published: December 2023

Individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) often exhibit joint hypermobility and connective tissue disorders. However, it remains unclear if ASD individuals also have structural alterations in the connective tissue of the cornea. This study aims to determine whether the Kobayashi structure (K‐structure) characteristics differ between adults with ASD and typically developing controls (TDC) and explore the clinical correlates of the K‐structure abnormality. We recruited 30 ASD adults and 35 TDC. Corneal structures, particularly the K‐structure in the Bowman's layer, of the participants were examined using in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM), and a K‐grading ranging from 1 to 4 was given to each eye based on the level of morphological mosaicism. The ASD participants' eyes received a significantly higher single‐eye K‐grading than that of the TDC eyes (p < 0.001), and the medians [25th, 75th percentile] of bilateral‐eye summed K‐grading were 8 [7, 8] and 5 [4, 6] in ASD and TDC, respectively (p < 0.001). A significantly higher K‐grading in the ASD participants' eyes was still observed after adjusting for the within‐subject inter‐eye correlation (p < 0.001). Youden Index showed the optimal cutoffs to differentiate ASD from TDC by bilateral‐eye summed K‐grading and single‐eye K‐grading was >6 and >3, respectively. Additionally, a higher K‐grading was associated with fewer visual sensation seeking in ASD (Spearman's correlation coefficient ρ = −0.518, p = 0.008) and low visual registration (i.e., higher sensory threshold) in TDC (ρ = 0.446, p = 0.023). This study provided novel evidence of corneal structural alterations in ASD by IVCM. Our findings may not only support the prior hypothesis of the association between ASD and connective tissue abnormalities but also shed light on the relationship between connective tissue disorder and neurodevelopmental disorders.
Balkone neu denken: Vorstellung eines neuartigen Balkonanschlusses
Authors: Schiewerling Matthias , Heithorn Jendrik , Mähner Dietmar
Published: December 2023

Etablierte Systeme zur thermischen Trennung massiver Balkone kommen nicht ohne Verguss der Konstruktion aus und erfordern Stütz‐ und Schalkonstruktionen während der Erhärtungszeit. Daraus resultiert neben einer schlechten Rezyklierbarkeit am Lebensende des Balkons auch ein erhöhter Zeit‐ und Kostenaufwand bei der Herstellung. Der vorgestellte Balkonanschluss zeigt einen Weg auf, wie Fertigteilbalkone zukünftig ohne Verguss und vollständig ohne Stütz‐ und Schalkonstruktion dauerhaft befestigt werden können. Gleichzeitig ermöglicht die vorgestellte Konstruktion ein hochwertiges Recycling der eingesetzten Baustoffe sowie eine Wiederverwendung vollständiger Bauteile.
Schallabsorptionseigenschaften von Lehmoberflächen
Authors: Blaschke Kim Kristin , Schwickert Susanne , Kob Malte
Published: December 2023

Gegenwärtig wird der historische Baustoff Lehm im Bauwesen wieder deutlich häufiger eingesetzt. In Wohn‐ und Nichtwohngebäuden findet er als Putz, Bauplatte oder gestalterisches Element in Form von Stampflehm oder Lehmsteinen zunehmend Verwendung. Da es wenige gesicherte Messwerte zu den Schallabsorptionseigenschaften von Lehmoberflächen gibt, wurden im Rahmen des DBU‐geförderten Forschungsprojektes ECOsights die frequenzabhängigen Schallabsorptionsgrade einer klassischen Stampflehmwand sowie einer mit lehmverputzter Oberfläche mit dem Hallraum‐Verfahren nach EN ISO 354 messtechnisch ermittelt. Außerdem wurde eine Versuchsreihe mit Messungen mit dem Impedanzrohr (Kundtsches Rohr) nach DIN EN ISO 10534‐1 mit Stampflehm durchgeführt. Dabei wurden neben dem Absorptionsgrad auch die Gewichtsabnahme und die Veränderung der Oberflächenstruktur der Proben erfasst. Für die untersuchten Lehmoberflächen haben sich höhere Schallabsorptionsgrade als die Planungswerte für gleichwertige, zweckentsprechend in der Baupraxis eingesetzte Materialien ergeben.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Building Physics Education
Authors: Sommer Bernhard , Moncayo Galo
Published: December 2023

This series presents articles on the use of computer programmes in university teaching of building physics and building technology for architects and civil engineers. This contribution highlights the utilization of machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) in building physics education, drawing upon the expertise of the Energy Design department. The research conducted within the department encompasses the development of custom‐made digital tools, prototyping, and integration of sensors into energy concepts and the implementation of these concepts into building elements. It shows how the latest developments and the good availability and accessibility of algorithms and computing power have been used to train architects and how AI can be used to support the skills of the research and teaching team to create programs highly adapted to specific problems.
Establishment of bladder cancer spheroids and cultured in microfluidic platform for predicting drug response
Authors: Xiong Qiao , Liu Ting , Ying Yidie , Yu Xiaowen , Wang Ziwei , Gao Hongliang , Lin Tianhai , Fan Weihua , Zhang Zhensheng , Wei Qiang , Ge Yuqing , Zeng Shuxiong , Xu Chuanliang
Published: December 2023

Cisplatin‐containing combination chemotherapy has been used as the standard treatment for bladder cancer patients at advanced stage. However, nearly 50% of patients are nonresponders. To guide the selection of more effective chemotherapeutic agents, a bladder cancer spheroids microfluidic drug sensitivity analysis system was established in this study. Bladder cancer spheroids were established and successfully cultured in a customized microfluidic device to assess their response to different chemotherapeutic agents. The in vitro drug sensitivity results were also compared to patient‐derived xenograft (PDX) models and clinical responses of patients. As a result, bladder cancer spheroids faithfully recapitulate the histopathological and genetic features of their corresponding parental tumors. Furthermore, the in vitro drug sensitivity outcomes of spheroids (n = 8) demonstrated a high level of correlation with the PDX (n = 2) and clinical response in patients (n = 2). Our study highlights the potential of combining bladder cancer spheroids and microfluidic devices as an efficient and accurate platform for personalized selection of chemotherapeutic agents.
A better understanding of the role of the CTLA–CD80/86 axis in the treatment of autoimmune diseases
Authors: Darvish Zahra , Kheder Ramiar Kamal , Faraj Tola Abdulsattar , Najmaldin Soran K. , Mollazadeh Samaneh , Nosratabadi Reza , Esmaeili Seyed‐Alireza
Published: December 2023

Autoimmune diseases are diseases in which the regulatory mechanisms of the immune response are disturbed. As a result, the body loses self‐tolerance. Since one of the main regulatory mechanisms of the immune response is the CTLA4–CD80/86 axis, this hypothesis suggests that autoimmune diseases potentially share a similar molecular basis of pathogenesis. Hence, investigating the CTLA4–CD80/86 axis may be helpful in finding an appropriate treatment strategy. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the molecular basis of the CTLA4–CD80/86 axis in the regulation of the immune response, and then its role in developing some autoimmune diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes, and multiple sclerosis. As well, the main therapeutic strategies affecting the CTLA4–CD80/86 axis have been summarized to highlight the importance of this axis in management of autoimmune diseases.
Site‐selective Mono‐ and Bifunctionalization of Graphene Oxide: Screening Nanocatalysts for Organophosphate Degradation
Authors: Santos Yane H. , Martinez André H. G. , Veiga Amanda Garcez , Rocco Maria Luiza M. , Zarbin Aldo J. G. , Orth Elisa S.
Published: December 2023

Targeted multiple functionalization is a promising tool for developing nanocatalysts for the degradation of toxic organophosphates, present in many agrochemicals and chemical warfare. Herein, we functionalized graphene oxide with two different functional groups (thiol and imidazole), focused on two distinct anchoring sites: epoxide and carboxylic acids. The mono‐ and bifunctionalized materials showed pronounced catalytic activity in the degradation of a toxic organophosphate. This was attributed to cooperative multiple catalyses by the reactive imidazole/thiol groups and neighbouring groups (carboxylate/hydroxyl) on the nanocatalyst backbone. The best nanocatalyst was monofunctionalized via epoxides, which showed the lowest degree of functionalization and highest amount of carboxylic acids. In this case, it could benefit from a bifunctional nucleophilic and general base catalysis involving the thiol and carboxylate groups, respectively. The bifunctionalization strategy via both epoxide and carboxylic acids showed to be better than the analogue bifunctionalized solely via the carboxylic acids, evidencing the importance of the spatial distribution of the anchoring sites. Overall, the functionalization strategy varies the positioning and availability of reactive groups which directly affects the catalytic outcome.
A Strategy Based on “Ambident Anthracene” for the Synthesis of Higher‐Order Iptycenes
Authors: Iwata Takayuki , Hyodo Mizuki , Kawano Ryusei , Shindo Mitsuru
Published: December 2023

An efficient method for the synthesis of higher‐order iptycenes using an “ambident anthracene” building block is presented. For that purpose, an iterative elongation strategy involving the ring‐opening of an endoxide to give a highly reactive anthranoxide, followed by a Diels‐Alder reaction with an aryne was used. The method systematically provides higher‐order iptycenes, including trideciptycene, which is currently the iptycene with the longest chain to have been synthesized. X‐ray crystallography revealed interesting structures in which solvent molecules fill the cavities of these iptycenes, thus creating a “honeycomb” structure with the solvent molecules arranged in tubular spaces.
Tridentate NacNac Tames T‐Shaped Nickel(I) Radical
Authors: Pahar Sanjukta , Sharma Vishal , Raj K. Vipin , Sangole Mayur P. , George Christy P. , Singh Kirandeep , Vanka Kumar , Gonnade Rajesh G. , Sen Sakya S.
Published: December 2023

The reaction of a nickel(II) chloride complex containing a tridentate β‐diketiminato ligand with a picolyl group [2,6‐iPr2‐C6H3NC(Me)CHC(Me)NH(CH2py)]Ni(II)Cl (1)] with KSi(SiMe3)3 conveniently afforded a nickel(I) radical with a T‐shaped geometry (2). The compound‘s metalloradical nature was confirmed through electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) studies and its reaction with TEMPO, resulting in the formation of a highly unusual three‐membered nickeloxaziridine complex (3). When reacted with disulfide and diselenide, the S−S and Se−Se bonds were cleaved, and a coupled product was formed through carbon atom of the pyridine‐imine group. The nickel(I) radical activates dihydrogen at room temperature and atmospheric pressure to give the monomeric nickel hydride.
Cevipabulin induced abnormal tubulin protofilaments polymerization by binding to Vinblastine site and The Seventh site
Authors: Bai Peng , Yan Wei , Yang Jianhong
Published: December 2023

Microtubules, composed of αβ‐tubulin heterodimers, are crucial targets for chemotherapeutic agents and possess eight binding sites. Our previous study identified cevipabulin as the only one agent capable of simultaneously binding to two different sites (Vinblastine site and The Seventh site). Binding to The Seventh site by cevipabulin induces tubulin degradation. This study aimed to investigate whether it is binding to the Vinblastine site and The Seventh site exhibited an interactive cellular effect. Surprisingly, we discovered that cevipabulin induced abnormal tubulin protofilaments polymerization, a previously undefined tubulin morphology, and we proved it was an interactive effect of Cevipabulin's binding to both Vinblastine site and The Seventh site. Immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy confirmed cevipabulin induced the formation of linear tubulin protofilaments and their subsequent aggregation into irregular tubulin aggregates. Competition binding assays and the αY224G mutation revealed that binding of cevipabulin to both sites was necessary for the tubulin protofilaments polymerization effect. Moreover, we found that co‐treatment with a microtubule stabilization agent binding the Vinblastine site and a microtubule destabilization agent binding at the intra‐dimer interface of tubulin could also induce similar tubulin protofilaments polymerization. We proposed a mechanism where a microtubule stabilization agent on the Vinblastine site enhances longitudinal interactions between tubulin dimers, while, a microtubule destabilization agent binding at the intra‐dimer interface prevents the adoption of a straight conformation of the tubulin dimer and disrupts lateral interactions between tubulins, consequently leading to tubulin protofilaments polymerization. This study reported a new inhibitor‐induced‐tubulin‐morphology‐change and would provide insight into tubulin dynamic instability and also guide further study of cevipabulin.
Plasmon‐Molecule Interactions in Single‐Molecule Junctions
Authors: Zhang Xiangui , Li Zhengyu , Ji Shurui , Xu Wei , Chen Lijue , Xiao Zongyuan , Liu Junyang , Hong Wenjing
Published: December 2023

Single‐molecule optoelectronics offers opportunities for advancing integrated photonics and electronics, which also serves as a tool to elucidate the underlying mechanism of light‐matter interaction. Plasmonics, which plays pivotal role in the interaction of photons and matter, have became an emerging area. A comprehensive understanding of the plasmonic excitation and modulation mechanisms within single‐molecule junctions (SMJs) lays the foundation for optoelectronic devices. Consequently, this review primarily concentrates on illuminating the fundamental principles of plasmonics within SMJs, delving into their research methods and modulation factors of plasmon‐exciton. Moreover, we underscore the interaction phenomena within SMJs, including the enhancement of molecular fluorescence by plasmonics, Fano resonance and Rabi splitting caused by the interaction of plasmon‐exciton. Finally, by emphasizing the potential applications of plasmonics within SMJs, such as their roles in optical tweezers, single‐photon sources, super‐resolution imaging, and chemical reactions, we elucidate the future prospects and current challenges in this domain.
SMEOR: Sink mobility‐based energy‐optimized routing in energy harvesting‐enabled wireless sensor network
Authors: Gupta Amar Deep , Kumar Rout Ranjeet
Published: December 2023

For accurate environmental monitoring, a wireless sensor network (WSN) uses a collection of autonomous sensor nodes (SNs) that are dispersed at random across a given area. WSNs are used for various applications that require real‐time data. While the SNs in a WSN are limited in their ability to generate energy, the routing process is seen as a vital means of improving the network's ability to conserve resources and prolong its useful life. In this research work, we present sink mobility‐based energy‐optimized routing (SMEOR) in energy harvesting (EH)‐enabled WSN. While following the cluster‐based routing, the election of cluster head (CH) is executed using our proposed extended spotted hyena Lévy flight optimization (ESHLFO) algorithm. Furthermore, to address the energy‐hole problem, four data‐collection energy‐unlimited nodes are used around the periphery of the network. The sink moves from one EH‐enabled node to another to collect data. Further, security in SMEOR is ensured by encrypting the data using a stream cipher and a stochastically generated security key. It is evident from the simulation analysis that SMEOR delivers network longevity and supreme performance.
Endostatin, soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor 1 and soluble tumour necrosis factor receptor 2 cannot predict new onset of microalbuminuria in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Scurt Florian G. , Menne Jan , Brandt Sabine , Bernhardt Anja , Mertens Peter R. , Haller Hermann , Chatzikyrkou Christos
Published: December 2023

Aims

Inflammation and angiogenesis play an important role in the development of early diabetic kidney disease. We investigated the association of soluble Tumour Necrosis Factor Receptor 1 (sTNF‐R1), sTNF‐R2 and endostatin with new onset microalbuminuria in normoalbuminuric patients with diabetes mellitus type 2.

Methods

We conducted a case control study to assess serum levels of sTNF‐R1, sTNF‐R2 and endostatin in 169 patients with new onset microalbuminuria and in 188 matched normoalbuminuric, diabetic controls. Baseline serum samples from participants of the ROADMAP (Randomized Olmesartan and Diabetes Microalbuminuria Prevention) and observational follow‐up (ROADMAP‐OFU) studies were used.

Results

Endostatin and sTNF‐R1 but not sTNF‐R2 were increased at baseline in patients with future microalbuminuria. In the multivariate analysis, each log2 increment in endostatin levels was associated with an increase of only 6% in the risk of development of microalbuminuria (adjusted HR (95% CI) 1.006 (1.001–1011). sTNF‐R1 and sTNF‐R2 levels were conversely associated with microalbuminuria, but the results did not reach statistical significance. The respective adjusted HRs (95% CI) were 1.305 (0.928–1.774) and 0.874 (0.711–1.074).

Conclusions

sTNF‐R1 and sTNF‐R2 failed to predict the occurrence of microalbuminuria in normoalbuminuric patients with type 2 diabetes. Likewise, the utility of endostatin in predicting new onset proteinuria is limited.
Selection pressure by specialist and generalist insect herbivores leads to optimal constitutive plant defense. A mathematical model
Authors: Chakraborty Suman , Gershenzon Jonathan , Schuster Stefan
Published: December 2023

Brassicaceae plants have the glucosinolate–myrosinase defense system, jointly active against herbivory. However, constitutive glucosinolate (GLS) defense is observed to occur at levels that do not deter all insects from feeding. That prompts the question of why Brassicaceae plants have not evolved a higher constitutive defense. The answer may lie in the contrasting relationship between plant defense and host plant preference of specialist and generalist herbivores. GLS content increases a plant's susceptibility to specialist insects. In contrast, generalists are deterred by the plant GLSs. Although GLSs can attract the natural enemies (predators and parasitoids) of these herbivores, enemies can reduce herbivore pressure to some extent only. So, plants can be overrun by specialists if GLS content is too high, whereas generalists can invade the plants if it is too low. Therefore, an optimal constitutive plant defense can minimize the overall herbivore pressure. To explain the optimal defense theoretically, we model the contrasting host selection behavior of insect herbivores and the emergence of their natural enemies by non‐autonomous ordinary differential equations, where the independent variable is the plant GLS concentration. From the model, we quantify the optimal amount of GLSs, which minimizes total herbivore (specialists and generalists) pressure. That quite successfully explains the evolution of constitutive defense in plants from the perspective of optimality theory.
Ag‐Catalyzed Remote Dehydrogenative‐coupling of Unactivated C(sp3)−H Alcohols with Quinazolines for the Synthesis of δ‐Hydroxylalkyl Substituted Quinazolines in Aqueous Media
Authors: Xie Dayu , Liu Yan , Liu Xixian , Yang Qin , Peng Yiyuan
Published: December 2023

An efficient silver‐catalyzed δ‐regioselective unactivated C(sp3 )−H of free alcohols dehydrogenative coupling with quinazolines for the synthesis of δ‐hydroxylalkyl substituted quinazolines in aqueous media has been developed. Various alcohols including 1° and 2° alcohols, reacted with quinazolines through 1,5‐hydrogen‐atom transfer strategies to give the corresponding 2‐ or 4‐ δ‐hydroxylalkyl substituted quinazolines with good to excellent yields under mild reaction conditions. Notably, several substituted quinazolines and quinazolinones could be selectively dehydrogenative‐coupled with divergent free alcohols. This protocol provides a platform to access divergent functionalizations of quinazolines and quinazolinones to meet the growing needs for screening.
Periodic motion and optimization design of non‐stacked particle damper based on the double inert mass equivalent model
Authors: Huang Xuhong , Miao Jijun , Li Xiaojun
Published: December 2023

To promote the application of non‐stacked particle damper (NSPD) in civil engineering, a design methodology was suggested on the basis of the double inert mass equivalent model. NSPD single‐story steel frame model is selected as the research object in this paper. First, the analytical solution for the periodic motion with symmetric two impacts was discussed. The shaking table test was performed to verify the rationality of the analytical solution under harmonic excitation. Subsequently, based on the analytical solution, the influence of equivalent connection stiffness on the vibration reduction effect and mechanism was analysed under resonant and non‐resonant harmonic excitation. The numerical analysis methods of the optimal equivalent connection stiffness were obtained accordingly. Finally, the effectiveness and generalization of the proposed optimal equivalent connection stiffness were discussed numerically under harmonic excitation and seismic ground motion. An optimal design process for the NSPD was proposed accordingly. Based on this, the vibration reduction performance analysis of NSPD under far‐field records, near‐fault pulse‐like records and near‐fault non‐pulse records was further conducted in the end. The results show that the time‐dependent frequency behaviour of the uncontrolled structure has a significant impact on the performance of the NSPD. The proposed optimization method is effective, which can be used as the foundation for the optimization of NSPD under earthquakes.
Study on microstructure and charge–discharge mechanism of all solid‐state indium‐graphite batteries
Authors: Huang Bo‐Chin , Fan Wen‐Chin , Hung Fei‐Yi
Published: December 2023

This study centers on indium‐ion solid‐state batteries. Indium is a soft metal that provides excellent adhesion and does not generate dendrites during the charge–discharge process. The solid‐state electrolyte material, sodium‐based silicate, is an environmentally friendly material that offers better thermal stability compared to liquid electrolytes and reduces packaging requirements. The positive electrode material, a graphite film (GF), features a layered structure, enabling the stable insertion and extraction of ions. In this experiment, graphite film doped sodium phosphate (GFN) are used as positive electrodes, sodium‐based silicate powder through cloth deposition (battery cloth deposition [BCD]) is used as the electrolyte and indium is used as the negative electrode. To improve the low capacity of indium electrodes, indium is alloyed with silver and prepared by thermal evaporation method. The results show that the In‐30Ag with Cu substrate (weight ratio of In‐30 wt.% Ag) exhibits higher cycling capacity (61 mAhg−1). To further increase the capacity, the substrate of In‐30Ag is replaced from copper foil to aluminum foil. According to result, the capacity of In‐30Ag with Al substrate (91 mAhg−1) exhibits 1.6 times higher compared to In‐30Ag with Cu substrate. However, In‐30Ag with Al substrate after vacuum heat treatment, the thin film exhibits melting and agglomeration, leading to a decrease in capacity. Thus, the unheated In‐30Ag (Al substrate)/2×BCD/GFN system is subjected to large‐area module testing using an industrial fan as the load, confirming its practical applications.
Expanding the molecular landscape of undifferentiated sarcomas of bone with a novel EWSR1‐SSX3 gene fusion
Authors: Fumagalli Caterina , Orellana Ruth , Ferré Malena , Gonzalez Allan , Catasús Lluis , Vázquez Tania , Sebio Ana , López‐Pousa Antonio , Llauger Jaume , Peiró Ana , Antonescu Cristina R.
Published: December 2023

Undifferentiated sarcomas characterized by a primitive monomorphic round to spindle cell phenotype and often non‐specific immunoprofile remain difficult to subclassify outside molecular analysis. The increased application of RNA sequencing in clinical practice led to significant advances and discoveries of novel gene fusions that furthered our understanding and refined classification of otherwise undifferentiated neoplasms. In this study, we report an undifferentiated round to spindle cell sarcoma arising in the femur of a 34‐year‐old female. The round to spindle tumor cells were arranged in short fascicles, with focal rosette formation, within a hyalinized stroma. The tumor immunoprofile included diffuse reactivity for CD99, SATB2, and TLE1 and patchy positivity for Cyclin D1, Keratin AE1/AE3, synaptophysin, and chromogranin. Other markers, such as EMA, SMA, desmin, S100, ERG, and WT1, were negative. Fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis for EWSR1 gene alterations showed a break‐apart signal and targeted RNA sequencing revealed an EWSR1::SSX3 gene fusion. The patient received neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by surgery and subsequently relapsed in less than a year with lung metastasis. Larger series are needed to determine if this fusion defines a novel subset of undifferentiated tumors or represents a genomic variant of already existing primitive round cell sarcoma categories, such as Ewing sarcoma or synovial sarcoma.
Somatosensory omissions reveal action‐related predictive processing
Authors: Dercksen Tjerk T. , Widmann Andreas , Noesselt Tömme , Wetzel Nicole
Published: December 2023

The intricate relation between action and somatosensory perception has been studied extensively in the past decades. Generally, a forward model is thought to predict the somatosensory consequences of an action. These models propose that when an action is reliably coupled to a tactile stimulus, unexpected absence of the stimulus should elicit prediction error. Although such omission responses have been demonstrated in the auditory modality, it remains unknown whether this mechanism generalizes across modalities. This study therefore aimed to record action‐induced somatosensory omission responses using EEG in humans. Self‐paced button presses were coupled to somatosensory stimuli in 88% of trials, allowing a prediction, or in 50% of trials, not allowing a prediction. In the 88% condition, stimulus omission resulted in a neural response consisting of multiple components, as revealed by temporal principal component analysis. The oN1 response suggests similar sensory sources as stimulus‐evoked activity, but an origin outside primary cortex. Subsequent oN2 and oP3 responses, as previously observed in the auditory domain, likely reflect modality‐unspecific higher order processes. Together, findings straightforwardly demonstrate somatosensory predictions during action and provide evidence for a partially amodal mechanism of prediction error generation.
Local government's roles in community health and wellbeing in Australia: Insights from Tasmania
Authors: Morgan Michelle J. , Stratford Elaine , Harpur Siobhan , Rowbotham Samantha
Published: December 2023

Issue Addressed

Local governments are well‐placed to respond to communities' health and wellbeing needs. However, in the Australian state of Tasmania, the sector's roles in that respect are unclear.

Methods

We interviewed 10 municipal personnel in Tasmania to understand their views on local governments' community health and wellbeing functions.

Results

Participants had an integrative understanding of community health and wellbeing and recognised that collective effort from all tiers of government, community members, and other place‐based stakeholders would improve outcomes. They identified several roles local governments have to support and drive such improvements, including in relation to diverse place‐specific determinants of health and wellbeing. Capacity and capability to fulfil what is needed varied, with rural and remote councils generally less able than urban counterparts to respond consistently or comprehensively to community members' complex needs. However, in the presence of clear expectations and parameters, and appropriate support from other tiers of government, participants were eager for their councils to do more to improve their communities' health and wellbeing, including via a mandate in legislation.

Conclusion

Local governments have the potential to do more to improve health and wellbeing outcomes in Tasmania, and the greatest gains could be made by addressing spatial inequalities faced by the sector. That insight is extensible to other comparable jurisdictions.

So What?

We argue the need both for a shared societal goal of equitable wellbeing supported by all tiers of government and for actions proportionate to the needs of council areas.