bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Analyses of a MEMS Based Resonant Magnetometer
Authors: Ren Dahai , Wu Lingqi , Yan Meizhi , Cui Mingyang , You Zheng , Hu Muzhi
Published: September 2009

A novel design of a MEMS torsional resonant magnetometer based on Lorentz force is presented and fabricated. The magnetometer consists of a silicon resonator, torsional beam, excitation coil, capacitance plates and glass substrate. Working in a resonant condition, the sensor’s vibration amplitude is converted into the sensing capacitance change, which reflects the outside magnetic flux-density. Based on the simulation, the key structure parameters are optimized and the air damping effect is estimated. The test results of the prototype are in accordance with the simulation results of the designed model. The resolution of the magnetometer can reach 30 nT. The test results indicate its sensitivity of more than 400 mV/μT when operating in a 10 Pa vacuum environment.
Viroid Intercellular Trafficking: RNA Motifs, Cellular Factors and Broad Impacts
Authors: Takeda Ryuta , Ding Biao
Published: September 2009

Viroids are noncoding RNAs that infect plants. In order to establish systemic infection, these RNAs must traffic from an initially infected host cell into neighboring cells and ultimately throughout a whole plant. Recent studies have identified structural motifs in a viroid that are required for trafficking, enabling further studies on the mechanisms of their function. Some cellular proteins interact with viroids in vivo and may play a role in viroid trafficking, which can now be directly tested by using a virus-induced gene silencing system that functions efficiently in plant species from which these factors were identified. This review discusses these recent advances, unanswered questions and the use of viroid infection as an highly productive model to elucidate mechanisms of RNA trafficking that is of broad biological significance.
Dam and its role in pathogenicity of Salmonella enterica
Authors: Giacomodonato Mónica N. , Sarnacki Sebastián H. , Llana Mariángeles Noto , Cerquetti M. Cristina
Published: September 2009

Dam methylation is an essential factor involved in the virulence of an increasing number of bacterial pathogens including Salmonella enterica. Lack of Dam methylation causes severe attenuation in animal models. It has been proposed that dysregulation of Dam activity is potentially a general strategy for the generation of vaccines against bacterial pathogens. In this review, we focus our attention on the role of methylation by Dam protein in regulating bacterial gene expression and virulence in Salmonella enterica.
Osteoarticular tuberculosis – diagnostic solutions in a disease endemic region
Authors: Agashe Vikas , Shenai Shubhada , Mohrir Ganesh , Deshmukh Minal , Bhaduri Anita , Deshpande Ramesh , Mehta Ajita , Rodrigues Camilla
Published: September 2009

Background: We conducted a study of osteoarticular tuberculosis in patients from private and public settings in a disease endemic area. Our objective was to assess the role of mycobacterial culture and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in the diagnosis of osteoarticular tuberculosis (TB) in settings where only clinical and imaging diagnosis form the basis for treatment.
Methodology: Ninety-three consecutive specimens collected from clinically suspected patients of osteoarticular TB were screened for bacterial culture, mycobacterial culture and in-house nested PCR. In addition, specimens were examined by imaging and histopathology. Ten specimens collected from patients suffering from other bone diseases were included as negative controls.
Results: Of the 93 clinically suspected TB patients, mycobacterial culture was positive for Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) in 47 (51%) patients who were confirmed as definite TB cases. Of the remaining patients, 16 (17%) were diagnosed as probable, 19 (20%) as possible, and 11 (12%) as only clinically suspected TB cases. In-house nested PCR was positive in 65 (70%) cases. Fifteen patients were resistant to one or more anti-tuberculous drugs; twelve patients were multi-drug resistant, two of whom were extensively drug resistant.
Conclusion: Mycobacterial cultures using liquid media with susceptibility should form the backbone of management of osteoarticular TB. Nested PCR enhances the sensitivity if performed in addition to culture.
Trend of Japanese encephalitis in North India: evidence from thirty-eight acute encephalitis cases and appraisal of niceties
Authors: Saxena Shailendra K. , Mishra Niraj , Saxena Rakhi , Singh Maneesh , Mathur Asha
Published: September 2009

Background: In the year 2005, an epidemic of Japanese encephalitis (JE) occurred in the northern states of India. The present study was planned to reconfirm the circulation of JE in the area and to assess the trend of the disease to slow down the burden of JE.
Methodology: Surveillance was conducted to identify patients with acute encephalitis. Blood and cerebrospinal fluid specimens from suspected cases underwent pathological, serological, and demographic investigations. Viral testing for evidence of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) infection was also performed, either by IgM capture ELISA/RT-PCR or both. To identify circulating JEV strains, RT-PCR, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis was performed. Based on clinical cases reported between 1992 and 2008, the trend of JE infection in the state was analyzed to examine the dynamics of infection.
Results: Our investigations (n = 38) revealed that only 55.3% cases were positive for JE. Pathological examination revealed marked pleocytosis in CSF (90±76.9 cells/mm3), and peripheral leucocytosis (64.7±8.86% neutrophils) with mild anemia. Males were more susceptible than females with a ratio of 1.63:1 and significant gender difference (P
Deletion, insertion and stop codon mutations in vif genes of HIV-1 infecting slow progressor patients
Authors: Rangel Héctor Rafael , Garzaro Domingo , Rodríguez Anny Karely , Ramírez Alvaro Hernán , Ameli Gladys , Del Rosario Gutiérrez Cristina , Pujol Flor Helene
Published: September 2009

Background: Variable progression towards AIDS has been described and has been related to viral and host factors. Around 10% of the HIV-1 infected patients are slow progressors (SP), not presenting with AIDS disease signs even after more than 10 years of infection. Viral gene defects have been associated with the disease progression but more studies are still needed.
Methodology: The sequence of vif and nef were analyzed for HIV-1 infecting 14 SP and 46 normal progressors (NP) patients.
Results: Co-circulation of a strain carrying vif deleted gene with the wild type strain was detected in an SP patient with more than 10 years of infection. Other mutations (insertion in aa 63 in one strain, two premature stop codons in another one) were found in viruses infecting two other patients. Except for the SP8 strain, which exhibited a premature stop codon in nef, no gross deletions or insertions were observed in nef genes of both NPs and SPs strains analyzed.
Conclusions: Different kind of mutation: deletion, insertion and stop codon, were detected in 3/14 samples from SP, with co-circulation of a 195 bp vif deletion virus with a wild type in one of these patients. Although vif defects do not seem to be a frequent feature in SPs, this study illustrates the importance of analysing this gene, in addition to the multiple factors associated with the long-term non progression to AIDS.
Failure to demonstrate Babesia, Anaplasma or Ehrlichia in thrombocytopenic dogs from St Kitts
Authors: Kelly Patrick J. , Lucas Helene
Published: September 2009

Background: Thrombocytopenia is common in dogs on St Kitts but there is no data on the possible etiological role played by infections with Anaplasma, Babesia and Ehrlichia, other than E. canis, which are known to occur in the Caribbean.
Methodology: Blood from 13 thrombocytopenic but apparently healthy dogs seronegative (Snap 3Dx) for E. canis were tested by PCR for Ehrlichia, Anaplasma and Babesia .
Results: All PCRs were negative.
Conclusions: The results confirm the high sensitivity of SNAP testing for E. canis and indicate Anaplasma and Babesia are not important causes of thrombocytopenia in dogs on St Kitts.
Sacroiliitis caused by Salmonella typhi
Authors: Ulug Mehmet , Celen Mustafa Kemal , Geyik Mehmet Faruk , Hosoglu Salih , Ayaz Celal
Published: September 2009

Although the commonest manifestation of Salmonella infection is acute gastroenteritis, infection may spread to the blood-stream may and the illness can present with focal lesions in almost any organ with or without septicemia. We describe here a case of Salmonella typhi infection of a sacroiliac joint that was cured with ciprofloxacin therapy for six weeks. The patient was immunologically normal. Salmonella etiology was not suspected in this case, and the diagnosis was made only after bacterial isolation. Physicians should be aware of this rare manifestation of Salmonella infection, especially in endemic areas.
Effect of Blockade of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α with Etanercept on Surgical Wound Healing in SWISS-OF1 Mice
Authors: IGLESIAS ESTIBALIZ , O’VALLE FRANCISCO , SALVATIERRA JUAN , ANEIROS-FERNÁNDEZ JOSE , CANTERO-HINOJOSA JESUS , HERNÁNDEZ-CORTÉS PEDRO
Published: September 2009

Objective.

To assess whether blockade of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) influences surgical wound healing in a normal mouse experimental model.

Methods.

Wound healing time course and degree of surgical wound collagenization were measured by morphological techniques and digital image analysis in 80 male SWISS-OF1 mice (40 received subcutaneous etanercept at a dose of 0.1 mg/25g/ at −7, 0, 7, and 14 days).

Results.

No significant differences were observed between treated and untreated animals in wound healing, re-epithelialization, or formation of inflammatory infiltrate or granulation tissue at days 7, 15, or 20 after surgery. At 20 days, the collagen area was larger in treated versus untreated mice (109029 ± 28489 μm2 vs 79305 ± 19798 μm2, p = 0.026, Mann-Whitney U test).

Conclusion.

Surgical wounds showed a higher degree of collagenization at 20 days in etanercept-treated versus untreated mice, with no differences in the time course of wound healing. These data suggest that biological therapies to block TNF-α do not affect wound healing and do not need to be suspended during the perioperative period.
Is Complementary and Alternative Healthcare Use Associated with Better Outcomes in Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis?
Authors: TOUPIN-APRIL KARINE , EHRMANN FELDMAN DEBBIE , ZUNZUNEGUI MARIA VICTORIA , DESCARREAUX MARTIN , MALLESON PETER , DUFFY CIARÁN M.
Published: September 2009

Objective.

The objectives of this study were (1) to examine the association between the use of complementary and alternative healthcare (CAHC) and subsequent health outcomes; and (2) to explore the association between CAHC use and adherence to conventional treatments in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods.

A cohort of children with JIA (n = 182, mean age 10 yrs) who attended outpatient clinics were followed for one year. We evaluated the use of CAHC, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), global health, physical functioning, pain, and disease severity at 3-month intervals. We also evaluated perceived adherence to treatments. General estimating equations were performed to determine the association between use of CAHC and subsequent outcomes while controlling for possible confounders.

Results.

CAHC was used by 36.4% of participants over the 12-month period. Use of CAHC was associated with subsequent lower global health and physical functioning despite higher adherence to prescribed medications as assessed by the rheumatologist (p < 0.05). Use of CAHC was not associated with subsequent improved HRQOL or decreased pain or disease severity.

Conclusion.

Children with JIA who use CAHC do not have improved outcomes, at least over the relatively short term. Nevertheless, they seem to be more adherent to conventional treatment according to the rheumatologist.
Positive Conversion of Tuberculin Skin Test and Performance of Interferon Release Assay to Detect Hidden Tuberculosis Infection During Anti-Tumor Necrosis Factor Agent Trial
Authors: PARK JEONG HA , SEO GA YOUNG , LEE JIN SOOK , KIM TAE-HWAN , YOO DAE-HYUN
Published: September 2009

Objectives.

To evaluate tuberculin skin tests (TST) and interferon-γ (IFN-γ) assay in the detection of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection during tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antagonist treatment in Korean patients with initial negative TST result.

Methods.

Eighty-six patients with rheumatic diseases who had received anti-TNF agents for over one year were investigated. Clinical data were obtained from medical records. All patients received followup TST, and IFN-γ assay was performed in 64.

Results.

The study population consisted of 40 rheumatoid arthritis (RA), 34 ankylosing spondylitis (AS), 9 juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), and 3 other patients. The TST converted to positive in 28 (32.6%) patients. There was no significant variation between TST conversion rate and all risk factors. Although there was no statistical significance, the odds of the TST conversion rate tended to increase with the duration of TNF antagonist administration. Nine (14.1%) of 64 patients who performed an IFN-γ assay had positive results. Among 28 TST positive conversion cases, 4 patients with AS and 1 with psoriatic arthritis had positive IFN-γ assay results, and one of them developed miliary TB. However, none of the 4 RA patients with positive IFN-γ assay showed TST conversion. There was 68.6% agreement (kappa = 0.29, p = 0.02) between TST and IFN-γ assay results.

Conclusion.

Serial TST with IFN-γ assay may be useful to identify false-negative response to cases of latent Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection and new TB infections in patients with immune mediated inflammatory diseases during longterm anti-TNF therapy, especially in areas with intermediate TB burden.
Obesity: A preliminary report of an introductory service- learning course on the role of pharmacy students in health promotion
Authors: Srinivas Sunitha C. , Wrench Wendy , Karekezi Catherine W. , Radloff Sarah , Daya Santy
Published: September 2009

Lifestyle diseases such as obesity have been neglected in developing countries partly due to a more urgent focus on infectious diseases in these countries. The incidence of obesity is on the increase in developing countries, with a marked rise in childhood obesity. The present health-promotion activity employed service-learning principles by which final year pharmacy students prepared a piloted computer-based quiz using a pre- and post- test design along with other learning material, for participants who attended the 2007 Sasol National Festival of Science and Technology (SciFest). Interactive models, posters and information leaflets were used in explaining the prevention and control of obesity to learners. The results showed that the pre-existing knowledge of the  participants was good. There was a further improvement after the educational intervention. Activities such as this are important in heightening awareness of obesity in learners as it is likely to reduce the incidence of obesity later in life. Furthermore, the activity also served to increase awareness of the role of pharmacists in the prevention of lifestyle diseases such as obesity.OpsommingLeefwysesiektes soos obesiteit word verwaarloos in ontwikkelende lande weens die fokus op aansteeklike siektes. Voorvalle van obesiteit het verdriedubbel in ontwikkelende lande, met 'n skerp styging in kinderobesiteit. Die huidige gesondheidsprogram bied 'n indiensopleidingskursus aan, waar finalejaar-aptekerstudente 'n loodsprogram aanbied met behulp van 'n rekenaarvasvraprogram waar 'n voor- en na-toets saam met ander leermateriaal gebruik word vir bywoners van die 2007 Sasol Nasionale Wetenskap- fees. Interaktiewe modelle, plakkate en inligtingspam- flette is as hulpmiddels gebruik om die voorkoming en beheer van obesiteit aan leerders te illustreer. Die resultate het gewys dat die kennis van die deelnemers goed was. Dit het ná opvoedkundige raadgewing verder verbeter. Projekte soos hierdie is belangrik om leerders van obesiteit bewus te maak, aangesien dit baie moontlik die voorkoms van obesiteit later in deelnemers se lewens kan verminder. Die projek poog verder om bewustheid oor die rol wat aptekers in die voorkoming van leefwysesiektes soos obesiteit kan speel, te verhoog.
A slope method for the determination of electron energy for quality assurance
Authors: Hill Larry W. , Jack David
Published: April 2024

Background

Particle accelerators, manufactured for delivering patient radiation treatment, require numerous and frequent quality assurance measures. One of those is the periodic check for electron energy stability. The American Association of Physicists in Medicine has established requirements for this procedure. The current recommendation is to perform a ratio of two ionization points, one at Dmax and another at a point approximately to the 50% depth, compared to a baseline as a relative check.

Purpose

This ratio method is a sensitive measurement and sometimes produces results that are difficult to interpret or relate to acceptable tolerances. We sought to find a simple method that gives more stable results, which can be interpreted and related to energy changes.

Method

We propose a method that takes two measurements on the descending portion of the shifted percent depth ionization (PDI) curves to calculate the slope, tangent to the I50 point, the point at which the ionization falls to 50% of its maximum value. We then used the slope measurement, compared to an established baseline, to relate energy.

Results

After collecting data over a 3‐year period, we saw that standard deviations for the slope method have much less variability than the traditional ratio method. We were also able to correlate the slope results to ionization scans performed in water and found they were in better agreement than the traditional ratio method.

Conclusion

The slope method does not require precise positioning since the slope remains relatively constant over the descending portion of the curve. Our data show that this results in an easier interpretative test of electron energy stability and delivers reliable feedback for quality assurance.
Gene‐Environment Interactions and Gene–Gene Interactions on Two Biological Age Measures: Evidence from Taiwan Biobank Participants
Authors: Lin Wan‐Yu
Published: April 2024

PhenoAge and BioAge are two commonly used biological age (BA) measures. The author here searched for gene‐environment interactions (GxE) and gene‐gene interactions (GxG) on PhenoAgeAccel (age‐adjusted PhenoAge) and BioAgeAccel (age‐adjusted BioAge) of 111,996 Taiwan Biobank (TWB) participants, including a discovery set of 86,536 TWB2 individuals and a replication set of 25,460 TWB1 individuals. Searching for variance quantitative trait loci (vQTLs) provides a convenient way to evaluate GxE and GxG. A total of 4 nearly independent (linkage disequilibrium measure r2 < 0.01) PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs are identified from 5,303,039 autosomal TWB2 SNPs (p < 5E‐8), whereas no vQTLs are found from BioAgeAccel. These 4 PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs (rs35276921, rs141927875, rs10903013, and rs76038336) are further replicated by TWB1 (p < 5E‐8). They are located in the OR51B5, FAM234A, and AXIN1 genes. All 4 PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs are significantly associated with PhenoAgeAccel (p < 5E‐8). A phylogenetic heat map of the GxE analyses showed that smoking exacerbated the PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs’ aging effects, while higher educational attainment attenuated the PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs’ aging effects. Body mass index, chronological age, alcohol consumption, and sex do not prominently modulate PhenoAgeAccel‐vQTLs’ aging effects. Based on these vQTL results, rs141927875‐rs35276921 interaction (p = 4.7E‐61) and rs76038336‐rs10903013 interaction (p = 3.3E‐116) on PhenoAgeAccel are detected.
Compressive Property and Toughening Mechanism of Directionally Solidified Fe(Al, Ta)/Fe2Ta (Al) Eutectic Composites
Authors: Liang Zhanpeng , Cui Chunjuan , Li Wei , Zhang Kai , Wang Zhicong , Wu Tongchao , Song Yonghui , Su Haijun
Published: April 2024

Herein, Fe(Al, Ta)/Fe2Ta(Al) eutectic composites are prepared using the electron beam floating zone melting directional solidification technique. The compression and fracture toughness properties of Fe(Al, Ta)/Fe2Ta(Al) eutectic composites at different solidification rates are studied with compression and three‐point bending experiments. The toughening mechanism of the material is also analyzed from morphology, composition, and microstructure. The results show that the yield strength and compression properties of the Fe(Al, Ta)/Fe2Ta(Al) eutectic composite are increased with the increase of the solidification rate. The room‐temperature fracture toughness reaches 30.5 MPa m1/2 when the solidification rate is 4 mm min−1. In addition, the material exhibits high strength performance at room temperature. However, it exhibits poor strength and excellent plasticity due to the softening effect of recrystallization at 600 °C. The toughening mechanism of the Fe(Al, Ta)/Fe2Ta(Al) eutectic composites can be summarized as crack blunting, crack branching, crack deflection, and local deformation.
Imbalanced Surface Charge Induced Phase Segregation in Mixed Halide Perovskites
Authors: Zeng Zixin , Wang Yunfan , Ding Shuo , Li Yang , Xiang Chaoyu , Lee Chun‐Sing , Cheng Yuanhang , Tsang Sai‐Wing
Published: April 2024

Alloying the metal halide perovskite composition has become a key strategy for engineering the optoelectronic properties for various applications. However, the difference in complexation between ions poses a threat to crystal stability. In particular, the phase segregation in wide‐bandgap perovskites (WBG) with mixed halides is the major challenge in multi‐junction photovoltaic devices. Here, a systematic study is reported on the origin of phase segregation in a prototypical mixed halide perovskite (MHP) MAPbI2Br. It is found that the crystallinity and surface morphology are not associated with the lattice stability. Using highly sensitive external quantum efficiency (s‐EQE) measurement, it is found that the defects in the MHP are mainly associated with the Pb2+ and I−/Br− ions. Consistently, density‐function‐theory (DFT) calculation confirms that the MAPbI2Br surface is dominated by the metal‐halide components, and the imbalanced surface charge is responsible for the lattice instability. The role of physical and chemical passivation approaches in MHP is further investigated. The former limits the ion migration and allows dissociated ions to recover to their corresponding defective sites, whereas the latter lowers the surface energy by neutralizing the charge density on the lattice surface. This work brings insight into the phase segregation and passivation mechanisms in MHP.
Photothermal CO2 Catalysis toward the Synthesis of Solar Fuel: From Material and Reactor Engineering to Techno‐Economic Analysis
Authors: Ding Xue , Liu Wenxuan , Zhao Junhua , Wang Lu , Zou Zhigang
Published: April 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2), a member of greenhouse gases, contributes significantly to maintaining a tolerable environment for all living species. However, with the development of modern society and the utilization of fossil fuels, the concentration of atmospheric CO2 has increased to 400 ppm, resulting in a serious greenhouse effect. Thus, converting CO2 into valuable chemicals is highly desired, especially with renewable solar energy, which shows great potential with the manner of photothermal catalysis. In this review, recent advancements in photothermal CO2 conversion are discussed, including the design of catalysts, analysis of mechanisms, engineering of reactors, and the corresponding techno‐economic analysis. A guideline for future investigation and the anthropogenic carbon cycle are provided.
Tailoring the Coordination Micro‐Environment in Nanotraps for Efficient Platinum/Palladium Separation
Authors: Song Yanpei , Verma Gaurav , Tan Kui , Oyekan Kolade A , Liu Juejing , Strzelecki Andrew , Guo Xiaofeng , Al‐Enizi Abdullah M. , Nafady Ayman , Ma Shengqian
Published: April 2024

Recovering platinum group metals from secondary resources is crucial to meet the growing demand for high‐tech applications. Various techniques are explored, and adsorption using porous materials has emerged as a promising technology due to its efficient performance and environmental beingness. However, the challenge lies in effectively recovering and separating individual platinum group metals (PGMs) given their similar chemical properties. Herein, a breakthrough approach is presented by sophisticatedly tailoring the coordination micro‐environment in a series of aminopyridine‐based porous organic polymers, which enables the creation of platinum‐specific nanotraps for efficient separation of binary PGMs (platinum/palladium). The newly synthesized POP‐o2NH2‐Py demonstrates record uptakes and selectivity toward platinum over palladium, with the amino groups adjacent to the pyridine moieties being vital in improving platinum binding performance. Further breakthrough experiments underline its remarkable ability to separate platinum and palladium. Spectroscopic analysis reveals that POP‐o2NH2‐Py offers a more favorable coordination fashion to platinum ions compared to palladium ions owing to the greater interaction between N and Pt4+ and stronger intramolecular hydrogen bonding between the amino groups and four coordinating chlorines at platinum. These findings underscore the importance of fine‐tuning the coordination micro‐environment of nanotraps through subtle modifications that can greatly enhance the selectivity toward the desired metal ions.
Completely Inorganic Deep Eutectic Solvents for Efficient and Recyclable Liquid–Liquid Interface Catalysis
Authors: Xu Lixian , Yin Jie , He Jing , Li Hongping , Zhu Linhua , Ning Hailong , Jie Kecheng , Zhu Wenshuai , Li Huaming , Dai Sheng , Jiang Wei
Published: April 2024

Organic acid‐based deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as catalysts always suffer from weak stability and low recyclability due to the accumulation of organic oxidative products in the DES phase. Herein, a completely inorganic deep eutectic solvent (IDES) ZnCl2/PA with zinc chloride (ZnCl2) and phosphoric acid (PA) as precursors is constructed to realize liquid–liquid interface catalysis for desulfurization of fuel and product self‐separation for the first time. Owing to the inorganic nature, the organic oxidative products are accumulated at the interface between the IDES and fuel rather than the IDES phase. With this unique feature, the IDES can be reused for at least 15 times without any further treatment in oxidative desulfurization process, showing a state‐of‐the‐art cycle‐regeneration stability. Moreover, compared with the reported organic DESs, the IDES also reveals more attractive catalytic oxidative desulfurization performance. Experimental and theoretical studies indicate that the strong coordination Zn···O═P and the strong adsorption energy between IDES and sulfides enhance the activation of H2O2 to reactive oxygen species, leading to the superior catalytic performance in oxidative desulfurization of fuel.
Hidden Real Topology and Unusual Magnetoelectric Responses in Two‐Dimensional Antiferromagnets
Authors: Gong Jialin , Wang Yang , Han Yilin , Cheng Zhenxiang , Wang Xiaotian , Yu Zhi‐Ming , Yao Yugui
Published: April 2024

Recently, the real topology has been attracting widespread interest in two dimensions (2D). Here, based on first‐principles calculations and theoretical analysis, the monolayer Cr2Se2O (ML‐CrSeO) is revealed as the first material example of a 2D antiferromagnetic (AFM) real Chern insulator (RCI) with topologically protected corner states. Unlike previous RCIs, it is found that the real topology of the ML‐CrSeO is rooted in one certain mirror subsystem of the two spin channels, and cannot be directly obtained from all the valence bands in each spin channel as commonly believed. In particular, due to antiferromagnetism, the corner modes in ML‐CrSeO exhibit strong corner‐contrasted spin polarization, leading to spin–corner coupling (SCC). This SCC enables a direct connection between spin space and real space. Consequently, large and switchable net magnetization can be induced in the ML‐CrSeO nanodisk by electrostatic means, such as potential step and in‐plane electric field, and the corresponding magnetoelectric responses behave like a sign function, distinguished from that of the conventional multiferroic materials. This work considerably broadens the candidate range of RCI materials, and opens up a new direction for topo‐spintronics and 2D AFM materials research.
Eight In. Wafer‐Scale Epitaxial Monolayer MoS2
Authors: Yu Hua , Huang Liangfeng , Zhou Lanying , Peng Yalin , Li Xiuzhen , Yin Peng , Zhao Jiaojiao , Zhu Mingtong , Wang Shuopei , Liu Jieying , Du Hongyue , Tang Jian , Zhang Songge , Zhou Yuchao , Lu Nianpeng , Liu Kaihui , Li Na , Zhang Guangyu
Published: April 2024

Large‐scale, high‐quality, and uniform monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) films are crucial for their applications in next‐generation electronics and optoelectronics. Epitaxy is a mainstream technique for achieving high‐quality MoS2 films and is demonstrated at a wafer scale up to 4‐in. In this study, the epitaxial growth of 8‐in. wafer‐scale highly oriented monolayer MoS2 on sapphire is reported as with excellent spatial homogeneity, using a specially designed vertical chemical vapor deposition (VCVD) system. Field effect transistors (FETs) based on the as‐grown 8‐in. wafer‐scale monolayer MoS2 film are fabricated and exhibit high performances, with an average mobility and an on/off ratio of 53.5 cm2 V−1 s−1 and 107, respectively. In addition, batch fabrication of logic devices and 11‐stage ring oscillators are also demonstrated, showcasing excellent electrical functions. This work may pave the way of MoS2 in practical industry‐scale applications.
Multifunctional Ionic‐Ligand Regulated High‐Quality γ‐CsPbI3 Thin Films for Efficient and Bright Deep‐Red Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Ru Xue‐Chen , Zhu Bai‐Sheng , Ma Zhen‐Yu , Hao Jing‐Ming , Ding Guan‐Jie , Song Yong‐Hui , Feng Li‐Zhe , Song Kuang‐Hui , Li Lian‐Yue , Yao Hong‐Bin
Published: April 2024

All‐inorganic CsPbI3 perovskite semiconductor is attractive for deep‐red light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) because of its high photoluminescence, good thermal stability, excellent charge transport, and solution processability. However, the metastable phase of optically active CsPbI3 hinders the fabrication of efficient and bright deep‐red LEDs. Herein, a multifunctional ionic ligand regulation strategy using (2‐hydroxy‐5‐methylphenyl) triphenyl‐phosphonium iodide and 3‐(N, N‐dimethyloctylammonio) propanesulfonate is reported to regulate the optically active CsPbI3 crystallization and thus obtain high‐quality γ‐CsPbI3 thin films. The high crystallinity and preferential orientation of γ‐CsPbI3 arise from the strong bonding between the ionic ligands and ionic lead halide clusters. The obtained γ‐CsPbI3 thin films also possess suppressed defect densities, high luminescence, and high stability. Using this high‐quality thin film, an efficient and bright deep‐red LED with a peak external quantum efficiency of 13.34% and a maximum luminance of 2110 cd m−2 is successfully fabricated. The operational lifetime of the fabricated LED (time to half of the initial brightness, T50) reaches up to 40 min under a high current density of 50 mA cm−2 (corresponding to the initial brightness of 200 cd m−2).
Lateral Driver‐Automation Driver Authority Decision Considering Safety of the Intended Functionality
Authors: Wang Huiran , Wang Qidong , Chen Wuwei , Zhao Linfeng , Zhu Maofei , Tan Dongkui
Published: April 2024

The driver authority decision for driver‐initiated takeover is closely related to vehicle driving safety. In this paper, a lateral driver‐automation driver authority decision method considering the safety of the intended functionality is proposed to improve vehicle driving safety. Based on systems‐theoretic processes analysis, functional safety analysis of driver initiative takeover is carried out to clarify the safety of the intended functionality issues caused by the unreasonable decision. Then, a method for defining the safe driving area is developed to assess the safety level of the driving area around the ego vehicle. Taking the driver‐vehicle state parameters and vehicle–vehicle state parameters as input, a deep neural network model is constructed to determine the intention of the driver to take over the vehicle. The lateral driver‐automation driver authority decision method is designed to make the driver‐machine take‐over decisions, which considers the safety of the intended functionality. The effectiveness of the proposed method is evaluated via numerical simulation and hardware‐in‐the‐loop experiments. The results show that the designed method not only improves the control ability of the driver to the maximum extent but also integrates the perception ability of the driver into the vehicle control system to improve further vehicle driving safety.
YY2/BUB3 Axis promotes SAC Hyperactivation and Inhibits Colorectal Cancer Progression via Regulating Chromosomal Instability
Authors: Hosea Rendy , Duan Wei , Meliala Ian Timothy Sembiring , Li Wenfang , Wei Mankun , Hillary Sharon , Zhao Hezhao , Miyagishi Makoto , Wu Shourong , Kasim Vivi
Published: April 2024

Spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is a crucial safeguard mechanism of mitosis fidelity that ensures equal division of duplicated chromosomes to the two progeny cells. Impaired SAC can lead to chromosomal instability (CIN), a well‐recognized hallmark of cancer that facilitates tumor progression; paradoxically, high CIN levels are associated with better therapeutic response and prognosis. However, the mechanism by which CIN determines tumor cell survival and therapeutic response remains poorly understood. Here, using a cross‐omics approach, YY2 is identified as a mitotic regulator that promotes SAC activity by activating the transcription of budding uninhibited by benzimidazole 3 (BUB3), a component of SAC. While both conditions induce CIN, a defect in YY2/SAC activity enhances mitosis and tumor growth. Meanwhile, hyperactivation of SAC mediated by YY2/BUB3 triggers a delay in mitosis and suppresses growth. Furthermore, it is revealed that YY2/BUB3‐mediated excessive CIN causes higher cell death rates and drug sensitivity, whereas residual tumor cells that survived DNA damage‐based therapy have moderate CIN and increased drug resistance. These results provide insights into the role of SAC activity and CIN levels in influencing tumor cell survival and drug response, as well as suggest a novel anti‐tumor therapeutic strategy that combines SAC activity modulators and DNA‐damage agents.
A Pathologically Friendly Strategy for Determining the Organ‐specific Spatial Tumor Microenvironment Topology in Lung Adenocarcinoma Through the Integration of snRandom‐seq and Imaging Mass Cytometry
Authors: Sun Xuqi , Teng Xiao , Liu Chuan , Tian Weihong , Cheng Jinlin , Hao Shuqiang , Jin Yuzhi , Hong Libing , Zheng Yongqiang , Dai Xiaomeng , Wu Linying , Liu Lulu , Teng Xiaodong , Shi Yi , Zhao Peng , Fang Weijia , Shi Yu , Bao Xuanwen
Published: April 2024

Heterogeneous organ‐specific responses to immunotherapy exist in lung cancer. Dissecting tumor microenvironment (TME) can provide new insights into the mechanisms of divergent responses, the process of which remains poor, partly due to the challenges associated with single‐cell profiling using formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) materials. In this study, single‐cell nuclei RNA sequencing and imaging mass cytometry (IMC) are used to dissect organ‐specific cellular and spatial TME based on FFPE samples from paired primary lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and metastases. Single‐cell analyses of 84 294 cells from sequencing and 250 600 cells from IMC reveal divergent organ‐specific immune niches. For sites of LUAD responding well to immunotherapy, including primary LUAD and adrenal gland metastases, a significant enrichment of B, plasma, and T cells is detected. Spatially resolved maps reveal cellular neighborhoods recapitulating functional units of the tumor ecosystem and the spatial proximity of B and CD4+ T cells at immunogenic sites. Various organ‐specific densities of tertiary lymphoid structures are observed. Immunosuppressive sites, including brain and liver metastases, are deposited with collagen I, and T cells at these sites highly express TIM‐3. This study originally deciphers the single‐cell landscape of the organ‐specific TME at both cellular and spatial levels for LUAD, indicating the necessity for organ‐specific treatment approaches.
Exploring the Diverse Landscape of Fungal Cytochrome P450‐Catalyzed Regio‐ and Stereoselective Dimerization of Diketopiperazines
Authors: Ma Chuanteng , Wang Wenxue , Zhang Kaijin , Zhang Falei , Chang Yimin , Sun Chunxiao , Che Qian , Zhu Tianjiao , Zhang Guojian , Li Dehai
Published: April 2024

Dimeric indole‐containing diketopiperazines (di‐DKPs) are a diverse group of natural products produced through cytochrome P450‐catalyzed C–C or C–N coupling reactions. The regio‐ and stereoselectivity of these reactions plays a significant role in the structural diversity of di‐DKPs. Despite their pivotal role, the mechanisms governing the selectivity in fungi are not fully understood. Employing bioinformatics analysis and heterologous expression experiments, five undescribed P450 enzymes (AmiP450, AcrP450, AtP450, AcP450, and AtuP450) responsible for the regio‐ and stereoselective dimerization of diketopiperazines (DKPs) in fungi are identified. The function of these P450s is consistent with phylogenetic analysis, highlighting their dominant role in controlling the dimerization modes. Combinatorial biosynthesis‐based pathway reconstitution of non‐native gene clusters expands the chemical space of fungal di‐DKPs and reveals that the regioselectivity is influenced by the substrate. Furthermore, multiple sequence alignment and molecular docking of these enzymes demonstrate a C‐terminal variable region near the substrate tunnel entrance in AtuP450 that is crucial for its regioselectivity. These findings not only reveal the secret of fungal di‐DKPs diversity but also deepen understanding of the mechanisms and catalytic specificity involved in P450‐catalyzed dimerization reactions.
Ultrasound combined blood‐brain barrier targeting brain delivery of four‐in‐one molecular aggregates for the enhancement of anesthetic efficacy and toxicity reduction via propofol‐etomidate synergistically inhibition GABA receptor
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Wang Yishu , Zhu Mingting , Liu Bingyang , Zhao Wenpu , Zhang Shuai , Xia Ji , Shi Lei , Tang Peng , Wang Feiqian , Zhang Siyuan , Wan Mingxi , Wu Daocheng , Gao Wei
Published: April 2024

To enhance the anesthetic efficacy and reduce toxic side effects, a strategy is proposed involving the utilization of general anesthetics of Propofol (Pro) and Etomidate (Eto) to synergistic inhibition GABA receptors simultaneously. Four‐in‐one molecular aggregates were prepared to implement this strategy, which comprised of Pro and Eto with the bridging molecule monoglyceride monooleate (GMO) and surfactant F127 through intermolecular forces. The blood‐brain barrier (BBB) targeted lactoferrin (LF) is affixed to their surface, obtaining the final molecular aggregates. By employing lactoferrin enrich aggregates to the BBB, followed by ultrasound combine microbubbles to open the BBB, a remarkable 4.5‐fold enhancement in brain drug delivery was achieved. The molecular aggregates group maintained stable parameters of heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, and systolic blood pressure. A notable increase of more than twice therapeutic index (TI) value was observed, implying their higher anesthesia efficiency and reduced toxicity. Electroencephalogram (EEG) experiments demonstrate a significant elevation in the proportion of δ waves from 28% to 80% for aggregates, accompanied by a nearly fivefold reduction in the proportion of θ waves, meaning a significant improvement in synergistic anesthesia effectiveness (interaction index 0.289) with lower drug dosage. Furthermore, mouse immunofluorescence brain slice experiments suggest Pro and Eto enter the GABA receptor simultaneously, resulting in synergistic inhibition of GABA receptors.
Shell Modulation of Hollow Metal Sulfide Nanocomposite for Stable Potassium Storage at Room and High Temperature
Authors: Chen Run‐Hang , Xiao Ji‐Miao , Zhu Ning‐Ning , Xiao Rong‐Hui , Liu Wan‐Yi , Zeng Xian , Chen Yan‐Fei , Yi Zi‐Jian , Zhu Guo‐Yu , Liu Lin , Bin De‐Shan , Li Dan
Published: April 2024

The large size of K‐ion makes the pursuit of stable high‐capacity anodes for K‐ion batteries (KIBs) a formidable challenge, particularly for high temperature KIBs as the electrode instability becomes more aggravated with temperature climbing. Herein, we demonstrate that a hollow ZnS@C nanocomposite (h‐ZnS@C) with a precise shell modulation can resist electrode disintegration to enable stable high‐capacity potassium storage at room and high temperature. Based on a model electrode, we identify an interesting structure‐function correlation of the h‐ZnS@C: with an increase in the shell thickness, the cyclability increases while the rate and capacity decrease, shedding light on the design of high‐performance h‐ZnS@C anodes via engineering the shell thickness. Typically, the h‐ZnS@C anode with a shell thickness of 60 nm can deliver an impressive comprehensive performance at room temperature; the h‐ZnS@C with shell thickness increasing to 75 nm can achieve an extraordinary stability (88.6 % capacity retention over 450 cycles) with a high capacity (450 mAh g−1) and a superb rate even at an extreme temperature of 60 °C, which is much superior than those reported anodes. This contribution envisions new perspectives on rational design of functional metal sulfides composite toward high‐performance KIBs with insights into the significant structure‐function correlation.
N2 Functionalization via Molybdenum‐Nitride Complex: Stepwise BH Bond Additions
Authors: Benaissa Idir , Rialland Barbara , Bennaamane Soukaina , Espada Maria F. , Saffon‐Merceron Nathalie , Fustier‐Boutignon Marie , Clot Eric , Mézailles Nicolas
Published: April 2024

Reactivity of (triphosphine)MoIV‐nitrido complex generated by N2 splitting, toward boranes is reported. The simple adduct Mo≡N→BH3 is observed with BH3.SMe2 while 1,2 addition is evidenced with 9‐BBN leading to H−Mo=NBR2. A second addition of BH3.SMe2 is facile and forms an unprecedented complex featuring two bridging H between two B and the Mo centers. Addition of PMe3 or BH3.SMe2 promotes reductive elimination and N−H bond formation. The full sequence of functionalization at Mo≡N obtained after N2 splitting is therefore evidenced in this work.
Biosensor Strip for Rapid On‐site Assessment of Levodopa Pharmacokinetics along with Motor Performance in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Mahato Kuldeep , Moon Jong‐Min , Moonla Chochanon , Longardner Katherine , Ghodsi Hamidreza , Litvan Irene , Wang Joseph
Published: April 2024

While levodopa (L‐Dopa) is the primary treatment for alleviating Parkinson's disease (PD), its efficacy is hindered by challenges such as a short half‐life and inconsistent plasma levels. As PD progresses, the rising need for increased and more frequent L‐Dopa doses coupled with symptom fluctuations and dyskinesias underscores the urgency for improved comprehension of the interplay between L‐Dopa levels and PD motor symptoms. Addressing this critical need, we present a decentralized testing method using a disposable biosensor strip and a universal slope (U‐slope) calibration‐free approach. This enables reliable, rapid, simple, and cost‐effective decentralized L‐Dopa measurements from capillary blood. A pilot study with PD persons demonstrates the ability to monitor real‐time L‐Dopa pharmacokinetics from fingerstick blood after oral L‐Dopa‐Carbidopa (C–Dopa) tablet administration. Correlating capillary blood L‐Dopa levels with PD motor scores revealed a well‐defined inverse correlation with temporal motor fluctuations. We compared the resulting dynamic capillary blood L‐Dopa levels with plasma L‐Dopa levels using the traditional but clinically impractical high‐performance liquid chromatography technique. By providing timely feedback on a proper L‐Dopa dosing regimen in a decentralized and rapid fashion, this new biosensing platform will facilitate tailored optimal L‐Dopa dosing, towards improving symptom management and enhancing health‐related quality of life.
Mechanochemische Cyclotrimerisierung: Ein Synthesekonzept für kovalent‐organische Gerüstverbindungen mit regulierbarer Schichtfolge
Authors: Hutsch Stefanie , Leonard Allison , Grätz Sven , Höfler Mark Valentin , Gutmann Torsten , Borchardt Lars
Published: April 2024

Die mechanochemische Cyclotrimerisierung von Nitrilen ist ein einfaches Synthesekonzept für Triazin‐haltige Moleküle und Materialien und adressiert Probleme in Zusammenhang mit ungewollter Karbonisierung und mangelnder Löslichkeit verwendeter Edukte. In einer Festkörperreaktion in der Kugelmühle wird 4‐Methylbenzonitril quantitativ in nur 90 Minuten zu Tris(4‐methylphenyl)‐1,3,5‐triazin umgesetzt. Ebenso schnell wird das kovalent‐organische Triazin‐Netzwerk CTF‐1 unter Verwendung von 1,4 Dicyanobenzol aufgebaut. Das erhaltene Material ist porös (650 m2 g−1) und kristallin. Über den mechanischen Energieeintrag kann die erhaltenen Konformation kontrolliert werden – von einer gestaffelten AB‐Anordnung zu einer überlappenden AA‐Stapelung. Weiterhin wird über die Variation der Monomere die Vielseitigkeit dieser Methode belegt.
Typ‐I‐Photoinitiator auf der Basis nachhaltiger Kohlenstoffpunkte
Authors: Li Ruiping , Guo Hongda , Luo Xiongfei , Wang Qunying , Pang Yulian , Li Shujun , Liu Shouxin , Li Jian , Strehmel Bernd , Chen Zhijun
Published: April 2024

Nachhaltige Kohlenstoffpunkte, die an der Oberfläche Oximestergruppen enthalten, welche einer homolytischen Bindungsspaltung folgen, zeigen ein Potential als Photoinitiatoren für die traditionelle freie radikalische Photopolymerisation. Die Kohlenstoffpunkte wurden nach einem solvothermalen Verfahren aus nachhaltigem Furfural, welches über Lignocellulose erhältlich ist, hergestellt. Aldehydgruppen der Oberfläche reagierten mit Hydroxylamin zu dem entsprechendem Oxim, während die Reaktion mit Benzoylchlorid zu einem bio‐basierten Typ I Photoinitiator (CD‐PI) führte, welcher nachhaltige Kohlenstoffpunkte enthält. Die Fähigkeit zur Photoinitiierung wurde unter UV‐Bestrahlung bei 365 nm mit dem traditionellen Photoinitiator (PI) Ethyl (2,4,6‐trimethyl benzoyl) phenyl phosphinat (TPO‐L) mittels Echtteit FTIR Spektroskopie verglichen. Die auf einem Gemisch von Urethandimethacrylat (UDMA) und Tripropylenglykoldiacrylat (TPGDA) basierte Photopolymerzusammensetzung führte unter Verwendung von CD‐PI oder TPO‐L zu einem ähnlichen Endumsatz von etwa 70 %. Dennoch erschien das vernetzte Material im Fall der Zusammensetzungen, die mit CD‐PI verarbeitet wurden, homogen, während jene, die mit TPO‐L hergestellt wurden, heterogen waren, was durch die beiden Glasübergangstemperaturen gezeigt wurde. Außerdem war die Migrationsgeschwindigkeit von CD‐PI in den gehärteten Proben geringer im Vergleich zu jenen Proben für die TPO‐L als PI eingesetzt wurde.