bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reversible Constrained Dissociation and Reassembly of MXene Films
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Liu Xudong , Liu Qingqiang , Feng Yufa , Qiu Si , Wang Ting , Xu Huayu , Li Hao , Yin Liang , Kang Hui , Fan Zhimin
Published: April 2024

Enabling materials to undergo reversible dynamic transformations akin to the behaviors of living organisms represents a critical challenge in the field of material assembly. The pursuit of such capabilities using conventional materials has largely been met with limited success. Herein, the discovery of reversible constrained dissociation and reconfiguration in MXene films, offering an effective solution to overcome this obstacle is reported. Specifically, MXene films permit rapid intercalation of water molecules between their distinctive layers, resulting in a significant expansion and exhibiting confined dissociation within constrained spaces. Meanwhile, the process of capillary compression driven by water evaporation reinstates the dissociated MXene film to its original compact state. Further, the adhesive properties emerging from the confined disassociation of MXene films can spontaneously induce fusion between separate films. Utilizing this attribute, complex structures of MXene films can be effortlessly foamed and interlayer porosity precisely controlled, using only water as the inducer. Additionally, a parallel phenomenon has been identified in graphene oxide films. This work not only provides fresh insights into the microscopic mechanisms of 2D materials such as MXene but also paves a transformative path for their macroscopic assembly applications in the future.
Toward High‐Performance Hydrogenation at Room Temperature Through Tailoring Nickel Catalysts Stable in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Zou Zidan , Shen Yue , Zhang Xiao , Li Wenchao , Chen Chun , Fan Diancai , Zhang Haimin , Zhao Huijun , Wang Guozhong
Published: April 2024

The development of highly active, reusable catalysts for aqueous‐phase reactions is challenging. Herein, metallic nickel is encapsulated in a nitrogen‐doped carbon–silica composite (SiO2@Ni@NC) as a catalyst for the selective hydrogenation of vanillin in aqueous media. The constructed catalyst achieved 99.8% vanillin conversion and 100% 4‐hydroxymethyl‐2‐methoxyphenol selectivity at room temperature. Based on combined scanning transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Raman analyses, the satisfactory catalytic performance is attributed to the composite structure consisting of an active metal, carbon, and silica. The hydrophilic silica core promoted dispersion of the catalyst in aqueous media. Moreover, the external hydrophobic NC layer has multiple functions, including preventing oxidation or leaching of the internal metal, acting as a reducing agent to reduce the internal metal, regulating the active‐site microenvironment by enriching the concentrations of H2 and organic reactants, and modifying the electronic structure of the active metal via metal–support interactions. Density functional theory calculations indicated that NC facilitates vanillin adsorption and hydrogen dissociation to promote aqueous‐phase hydrogenation. This study provides an efficient strategy for constructing encapsulated Ni‐based amphiphilic catalysts to upgrade biomass‐derived compounds.
Reactive Microneedle Patches with Antibacterial and Dead Bacteria‐Trapping Abilities for Skin Infection Treatment
Authors: Shan Jingyang , Wu Xiangyi , Che Junyi , Gan Jingjing , Zhao Yuanjin
Published: April 2024

Bacterial skin infections are highly prevalent and pose a significant public health threat. Current strategies are primarily focused on the inhibition of bacterial activation while disregarding the excessive inflammation induced by dead bacteria remaining in the body and the effect of the acidic microenvironment during therapy. In this study, a novel dual‐functional MgB2 microparticles integrated microneedle (MgB2 MN) patch is presented to kill bacteria and eliminate dead bacteria for skin infection management. The MgB2 microparticles not only can produce a local alkaline microenvironment to promote the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes, but also achieve >5 log bacterial inactivation. Besides, the MgB2 microparticles effectively mitigate dead bacteria‐induced inflammation through interaction with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). With the incorporation of these MgB2 microparticles, the resultant MgB2 MN patches effectively kill bacteria and capture dead bacteria, thereby mitigating these bacteria‐induced inflammation. Therefore, the MgB2 MN patches show good therapeutic efficacy in managing animal bacterial skin infections, including abscesses and wounds. These results indicate that reactive metal borides‐integrated microneedle patches hold great promise for the treatment of clinical skin infections.
Perspectives Toward Damage‐Tolerant Nanostructure Ceramics
Authors: Fan Meicen , Wen Tongqi , Chen Shile , Dong Yanhao , Wang Chang‐An
Published: April 2024

Advanced ceramic materials and devices call for better reliability and damage tolerance. In addition to their strong bonding nature, there are examples demonstrating superior mechanical properties of nanostructure ceramics, such as damage‐tolerant ceramic aerogels that can withstand high deformation without cracking and local plasticity in dense nanocrystalline ceramics. The recent progresses shall be reviewed in this perspective article. Three topics including highly elastic nano‐fibrous ceramic aerogels, load‐bearing nanoceramics with improved mechanical properties, and implementing machine learning‐assisted simulations toolbox in understanding the relationship among structure, deformation mechanisms, and microstructure‐properties shall be discussed. It is hoped that the perspectives present here can help the discovery, synthesis, and processing of future structural ceramic materials that are insensitive to processing flaws and local damages in service.
Electropolymerization of Donor–Acceptor Conjugated Polymer for Efficient Dual‐Ion Storage
Authors: Chen Xianhe , Zhang Weisheng , Zhang Chenxing , Guo Yuxuan , Yu Ao , Mei Shilin , Yao Chang‐Jiang
Published: April 2024

Rationally designed organic redox‐active materials have attracted numerous interests due to their excellent electrochemical performance and reasonable sustainability. However, they often suffer from poor cycling stability, intrinsic low operating potential, and poor rate performance. Herein, a novel Donor–Acceptor (D–A) bipolar polymer with n‐type pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone unit storing Li cations and p‐type carbazole unit which attracts anions and provides polymerization sites is employed as a cathode for lithium‐ion batteries through in situ electropolymerization. The multiple redox reactions and boosted kinetics by the D–A structure lead to excellent electrochemical performance of a high discharge capacity of 202 mA h g−1 at 200 mA g−1, impressive working potential (2.87 and 4.15 V), an outstanding rate capability of 119 mA h g−1 at 10 A g−1 and a noteworthy energy density up to 554 Wh kg−1. This strategy has significant implications for the molecule design of bipolar organic cathode for high cycling stability and high energy density.
H2O‐Mg2+ Waltz‐Like Shuttle Enables High‐Capacity and Ultralong‐Life Magnesium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ma Xiu‐Fen , Zhao Bai‐Qing , Liu Hongyu , Tan Jing , Li Hong‐Yi , Zhang Xie , Diao Jiang , Yue Jili , Huang Guangsheng , Wang Jingfeng , Pan Fusheng
Published: April 2024

Mg‐ion batteries (MIBs) are promising next‐generation secondary batteries, but suffer from sluggish Mg2+ migration kinetics and structural collapse of the cathode materials. Here, an H2O‐Mg2+ waltz‐like shuttle mechanism in the lamellar cathode, which is realized by the coordination, adaptive rotation and flipping, and co‐migration of lattice H2O molecules with inserted Mg2+, leading to the fast Mg2+ migration kinetics, is reported; after Mg2+ extraction, the lattice H2O molecules rearrange to stabilize the lamellar structure, eliminating structural collapse of the cathode. Consequently, the demo cathode of Mg0.75V10O24·nH2O (MVOH) exhibits a high capacity of 350 mAh g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1 and maintains a capacity of 70 mAh g−1 at 4 A g−1. The full aqueous MIB based on MVOH delivers an ultralong lifespan of 5000 cycles The reported waltz‐like shuttle mechanism of lattice H2O provides a novel strategy to develop high‐performance cathodes for MIBs as well as other multivalent‐ion batteries.
Innovative Bio‐based Hydrogel Microspheres Micro‐Cage for Neutrophil Extracellular Traps Scavenging in Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Xiao Yongqiang , Ding Tao , Fang He , Lin Jiawei , Chen Lili , Ma Duan , Zhang Tianyu , Cui Wenguo , Ma Jing
Published: April 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) seriously impede diabetic wound healing. The disruption or scavenging of NETs using deoxyribonuclease (DNase) or cationic nanoparticles has been limited by liberating trapped bacteria, short half‐life, or potential cytotoxicity. In this study, a positive correlation between the NETs level in diabetic wound exudation and the severity of wound inflammation in diabetic patients is established. Novel NETs scavenging bio‐based hydrogel microspheres ‘micro‐cage’, termed mPDA‐PEI@GelMA, is engineered by integrating methylacrylyl gelatin (GelMA) hydrogel microspheres with cationic polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐functionalized mesoporous polydopamine (mPDA). This unique ‘micro‐cage’ construct is designed to non‐contact scavenge of NETs between nanoparticles and the diabetic wound surface, minimizing biological toxicity and ensuring high biosafety. NETs are introduced into ‘micro‐cage’ along with wound exudation, and cationic mPDA‐PEI immobilizes them inside the ‘micro‐cage’ through a strong binding affinity to the cfDNA web structure. The findings demonstrate that mPDA‐PEI@GelMA effectively mitigates pro‐inflammatory responses associated with diabetic wounds by scavenging NETs both in vivo and in vitro. This work introduces a novel nanoparticle non‐contact NETs scavenging strategy to enhance diabetic wound healing processes, with potential benefits in clinical applications.
Genome Editing VEGFA Prevents Corneal Neovascularization In Vivo
Authors: Zeng Zhenhai , Li Siheng , Ye Xiuhong , Wang Yiran , Wang Qinmei , Chen Zhongxing , Wang Ziqian , Zhang Jun , Wang Qing , Chen Lu , Zhang Shuangzhe , Zou Zhilin , Lin Meimin , Chen Xinyi , Zhao Guoli , McAlinden Colm , Lei Hetian , Zhou Xingtao , Huang Jinhai
Published: April 2024

Corneal neovascularization (CNV) is a common clinical finding seen in a range of eye diseases. Current therapeutic approaches to treat corneal angiogenesis, in which vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) A plays a central role, can cause a variety of adverse side effects. The technology of Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 can edit VEGFA gene to suppress its expression. CRISPR offers a novel opportunity to treat CNV. This study shows that depletion of VEGFA with a novel CRISPR/Cas9 system inhibits proliferation, migration, and tube formation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) in vitro. Importantly, subconjunctival injection of this dual AAV‐SpCas9/sgRNA‐VEGFA system is demonstrated which blocks suture‐induced expression of VEGFA, CD31, and α‐smooth muscle actin as well as corneal neovascularization in mice. This study has established a strong foundation for the treatment of corneal neovascularization via a gene editing approach for the first time.
Flexible 3D Plasmonic Web Enables Remote Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Rodríguez‐Sevilla Erika , Álvarez‐Martínez Jonathan Ulises , Castro‐Beltrán Rigoberto , Morales‐Narváez Eden
Published: April 2024

Nanoplasmonic materials concentrate light in specific regions of dramatic electromagnetic enhancement: hot spots. Such regions can be employed to perform single molecule detection via surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy. However, this phenomenon is challenging since hot spots are expected to be highly intense/abundant and positioning of molecules within such hot spots is crucial to manage with ultrasensitive SERS. Herein, it is discovered that a 3D plasmonic web embedded within a biohybrid (3D‐POWER) exhibits plasmonic transmission, spontaneously absorbs the analyte, and meets these so much needed criteria in ultrasensitive SERS. 3D‐POWER is built with nanopaper and self‐assembled layers of graphene oxide and gold nanorods. According to in silico experiments, 3D‐POWER captures light in a small region and performs plasmonic field transmission in a surrounding volume, thereby activating a plasmonic web throughout the simulated volume. The study also provides experimental evidence supporting the plasmonic field transport ability of 3D power, which operates as a SERS signal carrier (even beyond the apparatus field of view), and the ultrasensitive behavior of this ecofriendly and flexible material facilitating yoctomolar limit of detection. Besides, 3D‐POWER is proven useful in food and biofluids analysis. It is foreseen that 3D‐POWER can be employed as a valuable platform in (bio)analytical applications.
Charging Properties of Electrospun Poly(l‐lactic acid) Submicrofiber Mat and Its Electrical Applications
Authors: Takagaki Kenichi , Sakai Heisuke , Nobeshima Taiki , Uemura Sei , Kaneko Mitsuo , Ishii Yuya
Published: April 2024

Wearable pressure sensors have attracted significant attention owing to their potential applications in health monitoring and connectivity to internet‐based apps. Polymers such as poly(vinylidene fluoride) have been used in sensors. However, being petroleum‐derived materials, they do not decompose and remain in the soil when disposed. Poly(l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) is a promising material because of its biodegradable nature and its derivation from plant‐based materials. In addition, the electrospun PLLA fiber mat contains real charges and exhibits electromechanical properties. However, the detailed charging properties of the PLLA fiber mats remain unclear. Herein, the charge distribution of these fiber mat is presented, and a charging model of the fiber mat and a numerical model of the output charges from the fiber mats with electrodes are proposed. Additionally, the retention properties of the stored charges are determined using surface potential measurements at different temperatures. In addition, a self‐power‐generating touch sensor and mask‐type sensor are developed using biodegradable materials produced from biomass. These studies contribute to the improvement in the charge properties of PLLA fiber mats and the resulting wearable biodegradable sensors.
Impact of alloy‐like phase on energy loss mitigation in multi‐component organic photovoltaics
Authors: Kong Xiangyue , Zhan Lingling , Li Zhongjie , Yang Yaxin , Liu Yuhao , Qiu Huayu , Sun Xiaokang , Hu Hanlin , Sun Rui , Min Jie , Yin Shouchun , Fu Weifei , Chen Hongzheng
Published: April 2024

The multi‐component strategy has proven effective in advancing the performance of organic photovoltaics (OPVs), enhancing photocurrent and fill factor through spectral complementarity and morphology optimization. However, the open‐circuit voltage (VOC) mechanism in multi‐component systems lacks systematic investigation. In this study, we explore the influence of alloy‐like phases on energy level distribution and energy loss mechanisms in multi‐component OPVs. Appropriate modulation of donor alloy‐like phases maintains the original intermolecular stacking, enhances component compatibility, reduces acceptor aggregation, and improves acceptor phase purity, mitigating non‐radiative recombination losses. Additionally, suitable alloy‐like phase modulation elevates charge transfer (CT) states, reducing the gap between CT and local exciton state, lowering reorganization energy, and alleviating radiative recombination loss below the bandgap. Through synergistic optimization (layer‐by‐layer method with solid additive), ternary devices based on Y6 acceptor achieve a notable 19.41% power conversion efficiency, offering new insights for the analysis of the energy loss of the multi‐component OPVs.
Efficacy and safety of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors in systemic mastocytosis: A nationwide French pilot study
Authors: Moraly Josquin , Rossignol Julien , Rouzaud Claire , Gabas Thomas , Bouktit Hassiba , Lhermitte Ludovic , Canioni Danielle , Fraitag Sylvie , Bruneau Julie , Barete Stéphane , Suarez Felipe , Ballul Thomas , Meni Cécile , Polivka Laura , Terriou Louis , Launay David , Bouillet Laurence , Gaudy‐Marqueste Caroline , Gousseff Marie , Le Mouel Edwige , Neel Antoine , Ranta Dana , Jaussaud Roland , Guilpain Philippe , Frenzel Laurent , Agopian Julie , Dubreuil Patrice , Greco Céline , Dimicoli‐Salazar Sophie , Heiblig Mael , Gourguechon Clément , Tournilhac Olivier , Javier Rose‐Marie , Castelain Florence , Cabrera Quentin , Gourin Marie Pierre , Wierzbicka‐Hainaut Ewa , Torregrosa‐Diaz Jose Miguel , Bulai Cristina , Lavigne Christian , Hoarau Cyrille , Arock Michel , Damaj Gandhi , Lortholary Olivier , Hermine Olivier ,   CEREMAST network
Published: April 2024

Systemic mastocytosis (SM) corresponds to a rare and heterogeneous spectrum of diseases characterized by the accumulation of atypical mast cells (MCs). Advanced mastocytosis (Adv‐SM) is associated with poor survival; in contrast, patients with non‐advanced SM (non‐Adv‐SM) usually have a normal life expectancy but may experience poor quality of life. Despite recent therapeutic progress including tyrosine kinase inhibitors, new treatment options are needed for refractory and/or intolerant patients with both severely symptomatic and Adv‐SM. In vitro, the mTOR pathway is activated in MCs from patients bearing the KIT D816V mutation. Furthermore, rapamycin induces the apoptosis of KIT D816V MCs selectively. In this nationwide study, we report the outcomes of patients diagnosed with SM and treated with a mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitor (imTOR) within the French National Reference Center for mastocytosis (CEREMAST). All patients registered were relapsing, treatment‐refractory, or ineligible for other cytoreductive therapy. Non‐Adv‐SM patients received imTOR as a monotherapy (rapamycin/everolimus), and Adv‐SM patients received imTOR as a monotherapy or in combination with cytarabine. The objective response rate (ORR) in non‐Adv‐SM was 60% (partial response in 40% and major response in 20%), including reductions in skin involvement, mediator release symptoms, and serum tryptase. In the Adv‐SM group, the ORR was 20% (including one major response and one partial response, both in patients with a KIT D816V mutation), which enabled a successful bridge to allogeneic stem cell transplantation in one patient. Our results suggest that imTOR treatment has potential benefits in patients with SM harboring a KIT D816V mutation.
Against all odds: The road to success in the development of human immune reconstitution mice
Authors: Bin Yixiao , Ren Jing , Zhang Haowei , Zhang Tianjiao , Liu Peijuan , Xin Zhiqian , Yang Haijiao , Feng Zhuan , Chen Zhinan , Zhang Hai
Published: April 2024

The mouse genome has a high degree of homology with the human genome, and its physiological, biochemical, and developmental regulation mechanisms are similar to those of humans; therefore, mice are widely used as experimental animals. However, it is undeniable that interspecies differences between humans and mice can lead to experimental errors. The differences in the immune system have become an important factor limiting current immunological research. The application of immunodeficient mice provides a possible solution to these problems. By transplanting human immune cells or tissues, such as peripheral blood mononuclear cells or hematopoietic stem cells, into immunodeficient mice, a human immune system can be reconstituted in the mouse body, and the engrafted immune cells can elicit human‐specific immune responses. Researchers have been actively exploring the development and differentiation conditions of host recipient animals and grafts in order to achieve better immune reconstitution. Through genetic engineering methods, immunodeficient mice can be further modified to provide a favorable developmental and differentiation microenvironment for the grafts. From initially only being able to reconstruct single T lymphocyte lineages, it is now possible to reconstruct lymphoid and myeloid cells, providing important research tools for immunology‐related studies. In this review, we compare the differences in immune systems of humans and mice, describe the development history of human immune reconstitution from the perspectives of immunodeficient mice and grafts, and discuss the latest advances in enhancing the efficiency of human immune cell reconstitution, aiming to provide important references for immunological related researches.
Diagnostic Utility of MOG Antibody Testing in Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Redenbaugh Vyanka , Fryer James P. , Cacciaguerra Laura , Chen John J. , Greenwood Tammy M. , Gilligan Michael , Thakolwiboon Smathorn , Majed Masoud , Chia Nicholas H , McKeon Andrew , Mills John R. , Lopez Chiriboga A. Sebastian , Tillema Jan‐Mendelt , Yang Binxia , Abdulrahman Yahya , Guo Kai , Vorasoot Nisa , Valencia Sanchez Cristina , Tajfirouz Deena A. , Toledano Michel , Zekeridou Anastasia , Dubey Divyanshu , Gombolay Grace Y , Caparó‐Zamalloa César , Kister Ilya , Pittock Sean J. , Flanagan Eoin P.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic utility of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies (MOG‐IgG) testing.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients for CSF MOG‐IgG testing from January 1, 1996, to May 1, 2023, at Mayo Clinic and other medical centers that sent CSF MOG‐IgG for testing including: controls, 282; serum MOG‐IgG positive MOG antibody‐associated disease (MOGAD), 74; serum MOG‐IgG negative high‐risk phenotypes, 73; serum false positive MOG‐IgG with alternative diagnoses, 18. A live cell‐based assay assessed CSF MOG‐IgG positivity (IgG‐binding‐index [IBI], ≥2.5) using multiple anti‐human secondary antibodies and end‐titers were calculated if sufficient sample volume. Correlation of CSF MOG‐IgG IBI and titer was assessed.

Results

The pan‐IgG Fc‐specific secondary was optimal, yielding CSF MOG‐IgG sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 98% (Youden's index 0.88). CSF MOG‐IgG was positive in: 4/282 (1.4%) controls; 66/74 (89%) serum MOG‐IgG positive MOGAD patients; and 9/73 (12%) serum MOG‐IgG negative patients with high‐risk phenotypes. Serum negative but CSF positive MOG‐IgG accounted for 9/83 (11%) MOGAD patients, and all fulfilled 2023 MOGAD diagnostic criteria. Subgroup analysis of serum MOG‐IgG low‐positives revealed CSF MOG‐IgG positivity more in MOGAD (13/16[81%]) than other diseases with false positive serum MOG‐IgG (3/15[20%]) (p = 0.01). CSF MOG‐IgG IBI and CSF MOG‐IgG titer (both available in 29 samples) were correlated (Spearman's r = 0.64, p < 0.001).

Interpretation

CSF MOG‐IgG testing has diagnostic utility in patients with a suspicious phenotype but negative serum MOG‐IgG, and those with low positive serum MOG‐IgG results and diagnostic uncertainty. These findings support a role for CSF MOG‐IgG testing in the appropriate clinical setting. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:34–45
Bayesian Inference for Model Analyses of Supramolecular Complexes: A Case Study with Nanocarbon Hosts
Authors: Onaka Yuzuka , Sakai Renki , Fukunaga Toshiya M. , Ikemoto Koki , Isobe Hiroyuki
Published: April 2024

A 126 π‐electron nanobowl molecule, phenine tridehydrosumanene, was synthesized in 12 steps through the development of a polygon cyclization strategy that assembled the polygonal precursors by Ni‐mediated macrocyclization. The bowl‐shaped structure accommodated C70 as a guest at the concave site, and the ball‐in‐bowl structure was determined by X‐ray crystallography. The host–guest equilibrium in solution was studied with titration experiments using isothermal calorimetry, which provided an interesting test case for studying the host–guest stoichiometry. Bayesian inference was introduced for stoichiometric analyses of the equilibrium, and a procedure to estimate the volume of prior probability in the parameter space was developed. The Bayesian procedure functioned as Occam's razor and provided quantitative support for a specific stoichiometry. The method was examined with five host–guest examples comprising nanocarbon hosts, which suggested the versatility of Bayesian inference for studies of supramolecular complexes.
Immobilization of N,N‐diallyl‐N,N‐dimethylammonium chloride on polyethylene. Biocidal properties of the material
Authors: Misin Vyacheslav M. , Zezin Alexey A. , Zezina Elena A. , Loiko Nataliya G. , Maltsev Alexander A. , Maltseva Irina E. , Grafov Oleg Yu , Prokhorov Valery V. , Pozin Sergey I.
Published: April 2024

The immobilization of N,N‐diallyl‐N,N‐dimethylammonium chloride (DADMAC) on low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) films was carried out by the method of postradiation grafting using x‐ray radiation. The introduction of polycation exchanger links provided the appearance of hydrophilicity of the surface of the modified film. By measuring the wetting contact angle, IR and SEM, the island‐type character of the coating from grafted polyDADMAC was detected. The death of Gram‐negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Gram‐positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, and yeast (eukaryotes) Yarrowia lipolytica on the surface of the film with grafted polyDADMAC was demonstrated.
Replacement tooth in mesosaurs and new data on dental microanatomy and microstructure
Authors: Carlisbino Thiago , de Farias Brodsky Dantas Macedo , Sedor Fernando Antonio , Soares Marina Bento , Schultz Cesar Leandro
Published: April 2024

The Permian mesosaurs are well known for being the earliest amniotes to exhibit adaptations for living in a marine environment (Irati‐Whitehill Sea). In addition to their set of skeletal features associated with aquatic dwelling life, their dentition includes important characteristics related to feeding in this habitat, which is described in this work, based on the analysis of mesosaur specimens from the Lower Permian Irati Formation of Brazil. Mesosaurs have several slender, conical teeth bordered by enamel apicobasal ridges, a feature predominantly found in aquatic amniotes. Internally, the dentine walls are formed by the arrangement of layers of orthodentine and globular dentine. To prevent tooth loss, the basal area is equipped with plicidentine, a particular type of orthodentine, allied with cementum, alveolar bone trabeculae, and periodontal space that reinforces anchorage and provides some flexibility. The teeth are replaced in a labio‐vertical path, and the dentition replaces alternately. This feature is regarded as plesiomorphic, and it ensures the oral cavity is supplied with enough teeth. However, these features do not the assessment of whether mesosaurs teeth were capable of piercing prey with resistant tegument. Instead, we interpret this adaptation as a mechanism for catching prey, at least in adults, and we endorse a possible ontogenetic dietary shift from small to large forms.
New phenylthiosemicarbazide‐phenoxy‐1,2,3‐triazole‐N‐phenylacetamides as dual inhibitors against α‐glucosidase and PTP‐1B for the treatment of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Ansariashlaghi Shirin , Fakhrioliaei Azadeh , Mohammadi‐Khanaposhtani Maryam , Noori Milad , Asadi Mehdi , Mojtabavi Somayeh , Faramarzi Mohammad A. , Esfahani Ensieh N. , Rastegar Hossein , Larijani Bagher , Azizian Homa , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: April 2024

This study describes the design, synthesis, and evaluation of a novel series of phenylthiosemicarbazide‐phenoxy‐1,2,3‐triazole‐N‐phenylacetamide derivatives (7a–l) as dual inhibitors of α‐glucosidase and protein tyrosine phosphatase 1‐B (PTB‐1B). The latter enzymes are two important targets in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. The in vitro obtained data demonstrated that all title compounds 7a–l were more potent than the standard inhibitor acarbose against α‐glucosidase while only four derivatives (7a, 7g, 7h, and 7h) were more potent than the standard inhibitor suramin against PTP‐1B. Furthermore, these data showed that the most potent α‐glucosidase inhibitor was compound 7i, with sixfold higher inhibitory activity than acarbose, and the most potent PTP‐1B inhibitor was compound 7a with 3.5‐fold higher inhibitory activity than suramin. Kinetic studies of compounds 7i and 7a revealed that they inhibited their target enzymes in a competitive mode. The docking study demonstrated that compounds 7i and 7a well occupied the active site pockets of α‐glucosidase and PTP‐1B, respectively. In silico pharmacokinetic and toxicity assays of the most potent compounds were performed, and the obtained results were compared with those of the standard inhibitors.
Novel multifunctional tacrine–donepezil hybrids against Alzheimer's disease: Design synthesis and bioactivity studies
Authors: Bayraktar Gülşah , Bartolini Manuela , Bolognesi Maria Laura , Erdoğan Mumin Alper , Armağan Güliz , Bayır Ece , Şendemir Aylin , Bagetta Donatella , Alcaro Stefano , Alptüzün Vildan
Published: April 2024

A series of tacrine–donepezil hybrids were synthesized as potential multifunctional anti‐Alzheimer's disease (AD) compounds. For this purpose, tacrine and the benzylpiperidine moiety of donepezil were fused with a hydrazone group to achieve a small library of tacrine–donepezil hybrids. In agreement with the design, all compounds showed inhibitory activity toward both acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) with IC50 values in the low micromolar range. Kinetic studies on the most potent cholinesterase (ChE) inhibitors within the series showed a mixed‐type inhibition mechanism on both enzymes. Also, the docking studies indicated that the compounds inhibit ChEs by dual binding site (DBS) interactions. Notably, tacrine–donepezil hybrids also exhibited significant neuroprotection against H2O2‐induced cell death in a differentiated human neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y) cell line at concentrations close to their IC50 values on ChEs and showed high to medium blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability on human cerebral microvascular endothelial cells (HBEC‐5i). Besides, the compounds do not cause remarkable toxicity in a human hepatocellular carcinoma cell line (HepG2) and SH‐SY5Y cells. Additionally, the compounds were predicted to also have good bioavailability. Among the tested compounds, H4, H16, H17, and H24 stand out with their biological profile. Taken together, the proposed novel tacrine–donepezil scaffold represents a promising starting point for the development of novel anti‐ChE multifunctional agents against AD.
Magnesium Magic: State‐of‐the‐Art Nanocrystalline Materials Paving the Way for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Tan Guanglei , Tang Dan , He Lijie , Guo Lili , Bououdina Mohamed , Marwat Mohsin Ali , Zhang Quanqing , Humayun Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Hydrogen has been regarded as a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels, presenting itself as a viable and environmentally friendly energy choice. The design and fabrication of highly efficient hydrogen storage materials is crucial to the wide utilization of hydrogen‐based technologies. Magnesium‐based nanocrystalline materials have received significant interest in the field of hydrogen storage due to their remarkable hydrogen storage capabilities and release efficiency. This review emphasizes on the most useful techniques including vapor deposition, sol‐gel synthesis, electrochemical deposition, magnetron sputtering, and template‐assisted approaches used for the fabrication of Magnesium‐based nanocrystalline hydrogen storage materials (Mg‐NHSMs), stressing their advantages, limitations, and recent advancements. These cutting‐edge techniques demonstrate their significance in offering useful insights into the performance of Mg‐NHSMs. Further, this review describes various applications of Mg‐NHSMs. In addition, this review highlights the conclusion and future perspectives on the improvement of magnesium based nanocrystalline materials for efficient hydrogen storage.
A framework to select tuning parameters for nonparametric derivative estimation
Authors: Liu Sisheng , Kong Xiaoli
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we propose a general framework to select tuning parameters for the nonparametric derivative estimation. The new framework broadens the scope of the previously proposed generalized criterion by replacing the empirical derivative with any other linear nonparametric smoother. We provide the theoretical support of the proposed derivative estimation in a random design and justify it through simulation studies. The practical application of the proposed framework is demonstrated in the study of the age effect on hippocampal gray matter volume in healthy adults from the IXI dataset and the study of the effect of age and body mass index on blood pressure from the Pima Indians dataset.
Cascade reactions with two non‐physiological partners for NAD(P)H regeneration via renewable hydrogen
Authors: Gasteazoro Francisco , Catucci Gianluca , Barbieri Lisa , De Angelis Melissa , Dalla Costa Alessandro , Sadeghi Sheila J. , Gilardi Gianfranco , Valetti Francesca
Published: April 2024

An attractive application of hydrogenases, combined with the availability of cheap and renewable hydrogen (i.e., from solar and wind powered electrolysis or from recycled wastes), is the production of high‐value electron‐rich intermediates such as reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotides.

Here, the capability of a very robust and oxygen‐resilient [FeFe]‐hydrogenase (CbA5H) from Clostridium beijerinckii SM10, previously identified in our group, combined with a reductase (BMR) from Bacillus megaterium (now reclassified as Priestia megaterium) was tested. The system shows a good stability and it was demonstrated to reach up to 28 ± 2 nmol NADPH regenerated s−1 mg of hydrogenase−1 (i.e., 1.68 ± 0.12 U mg−1, TOF: 126 ± 9 min−1) and 0.46 ± 0.04 nmol NADH regenerated s−1 mg of hydrogenase−1 (i.e., 0.028 ± 0.002 U mg−1, TOF: 2.1 ± 0.2 min−1), meaning up to 74 mg of NADPH and 1.23 mg of NADH produced per hour by a system involving 1 mg of CbA5H. The TOF is comparable with similar systems based on hydrogen as regenerating molecule for NADPH, but the system is first of its kind as for the [FeFe]‐hydrogenase and the non‐physiological partners used. As a proof of concept a cascade reaction involving CbA5H, BMR and a mutant BVMO from Acinetobacter radioresistens able to oxidize indole is presented. The data show how the cascade can be exploited for indigo production and multiple reaction cycles can be sustained using the regenerated NADPH.
Production of ultra‐high‐molecular‐weight poly‐γ‐glutamic acid by a newly isolated Bacillus subtilis strain and genomic and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Zeng Wei , Liu Yuanyuan , Shu Lin , Guo Yin , Wang Linye , Liang Zhiqun
Published: April 2024

Poly‐γ‐glutamic acid (γ‐PGA) is a microbial‐derived polymer with molecular weight (Mw) from 104 to 107 Da, and the high‐Mw (> 7.0 × 105 Da) or ultra‐high‐Mw (> 5.0 × 106 Da) γ‐PGA has important application value as a tissue engineering material, as a flocculant, and as a heavy metal remover. Therefore, how to produce these high‐Mw γ‐PGAs with low cost and high efficiency has attracted wide attention. In this study, a γ‐PGA producer was isolated from the natural environment, and identified and named Bacillus subtilis GXD‐20. Then, the ultra‐high‐Mw (> 6.0 × 106 Da) γ‐PGA produced by GXD‐20 was characterized. Interestingly, GXD‐20 could produce γ‐PGA at 42°C, and exhibited a γ‐PGA titer of up to 22.29 ± 0.59 g L−1 in a 5‐L fermenter after optimization of the fermentation process. Comparative genomic analysis indicated that the specific protein sequence and subcellular localization of PgdS (a γ‐PGA‐degrading enzyme) were closely related to the ultra‐high‐Mw of γ‐PGA. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the high γ‐PGA titer at 42°C was mainly related to the high expression of genes encoding enzymes for sucrose transportation and utilization, nitrogen transportation, endogenous glutamate synthesis, and γ‐PGA synthesis. These results provide new insights into the production of ultra‐high‐Mw γ‐PGA by Bacillus at high temperatures.
Unveiling the mechanism of efficient β‐phenylethyl alcohol conversion in wild‐type Saccharomyces cerevisiae WY319 through multi‐omics analysis
Authors: Yang Chenghan , Ren Yilin , Ge Lihao , Xu Wenting , Hang Haifeng , Mohsin Ali , Tian Xiwei , Chu Ju , Zhuang Yingping
Published: April 2024

β‐Phenylethanol (2‐PE), as an important flavor component in wine, is widely used in the fields of flavor chemistry and food health. 2‐PE can be sustainably produced through Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Although significant progress has been made in obtaining high‐yield strains, as well as improving the synthesis pathways of 2‐PE, there still lies a gap between these two fields to unpin. In this study, the macroscopic metabolic characteristics of high‐yield and low‐yield 2‐PE strains were systematically compared and analyzed. The results indicated that the production potential of the high‐yield strain might be contributed to the enhancement of respiratory metabolism and the high tolerance to 2‐PE. Furthermore, this hypothesis was confirmed through comparative genomics. Meanwhile, transcriptome analysis at key specific growth rates revealed that the collective upregulation of mitochondrial functional gene clusters plays a more prominent role in the production process of 2‐PE. Finally, findings from untargeted metabolomics suggested that by enhancing respiratory metabolism and reducing the Crabtree effect, the accumulation of metabolites resisting high 2‐PE stress was observed, such as intracellular amino acids and purines. Hence, this strategy provided a richer supply of precursors and cofactors, effectively promoting the synthesis of 2‐PE. In short, this study provides a bridge for studying the metabolic mechanism of high‐yield 2‐PE strains with the subsequent targeted strengthening of relevant synthetic pathways. It also provides insights for the synthesis of nonalcoholic products in S. cerevisiae.
Artificial intelligence in lung cancer screening: Detection, classification, prediction, and prognosis
Authors: Quanyang Wu , Yao Huang , Sicong Wang , Linlin Qi , Zewei Zhang , Donghui Hou , Hongjia Li , Shijun Zhao
Published: April 2024

Background

The exceptional capabilities of artificial intelligence (AI) in extracting image information and processing complex models have led to its recognition across various medical fields. With the continuous evolution of AI technologies based on deep learning, particularly the advent of convolutional neural networks (CNNs), AI presents an expanded horizon of applications in lung cancer screening, including lung segmentation, nodule detection, false‐positive reduction, nodule classification, and prognosis.

Methodology

This review initially analyzes the current status of AI technologies. It then explores the applications of AI in lung cancer screening, including lung segmentation, nodule detection, and classification, and assesses the potential of AI in enhancing the sensitivity of nodule detection and reducing false‐positive rates. Finally, it addresses the challenges and future directions of AI in lung cancer screening.

Results

AI holds substantial prospects in lung cancer screening. It demonstrates significant potential in improving nodule detection sensitivity, reducing false‐positive rates, and classifying nodules, while also showing value in predicting nodule growth and pathological/genetic typing.

Conclusions

AI offers a promising supportive approach to lung cancer screening, presenting considerable potential in enhancing nodule detection sensitivity, reducing false‐positive rates, and classifying nodules. However, the universality and interpretability of AI results need further enhancement. Future research should focus on the large‐scale validation of new deep learning‐based algorithms and multi‐center studies to improve the efficacy of AI in lung cancer screening.
Effects of syndecan‐4 silencing on the extracellular matrix remodeling in anoikis‐resistant endothelial cells
Authors: Onyeisi Jessica Oyie Sousa , Nader Helena Bonciani , Lopes Carla Cristina
Published: April 2024

Anoikis is a process of programmed cell death induced by the loss of cell/matrix interactions. In previous work, we have shown that the acquisition of anoikis resistance upregulates syndecan‐4 (SDC4) expression in endothelial cells. In addition, SDC4 gene silencing by microRNA interference reverses the transformed phenotype of anoikis‐resistant endothelial cells. Due to this role of SDC4 in regulating the behavior of anoikis‐resistant endothelial cells, we have evaluated that the functional consequences of SDC4 silencing in the extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling in anoikis‐resistant rabbit aortic endothelial cells submitted to SDC4 gene silencing (miR‐Syn4‐Adh‐1‐EC). For this, we evaluated the expression of adhesive proteins, ECM receptors, nonreceptor protein‐tyrosine kinases, and ECM‐degrading enzymes and their inhibitors. Altered cell behavior was monitored by adhesion, migration, and tube formation assays. We found that SDC4 silencing led to a decrease in migration and angiogenic capacity of anoikis‐resistant endothelial cells; this was accompanied by an increase in adhesion to fibronectin. Furthermore, after SDC4 silencing, we observed an increase in the expression of fibronectin, collagen IV, and vitronectin, and a decrease in the expression of integrin α5β1 and αvβ3, besides that, silenced cells show an increase in Src and FAK expression. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot analysis demonstrated that SDC4 silencing leads to altered gene and protein expression of MMP2, MMP9, and HSPE. Compared with parental cells, SDC4 silenced cells showed a decrease in nitric oxide production and eNOS expression. In conclusion, these data demonstrate that SDC4 plays an important role in ECM remodeling. In addition, our findings represent an important step toward understanding the mechanism by which SDC4 can reverse the transformed phenotype of anoikis‐resistant endothelial cells.
Compound heterozygous B3GALNT2 mutations in a fetus with encephalocele: A case report
Authors: Ling Dandan , Xie Wanqin , Mao Xiao , Yang Shengzhi , Pang Haiyan , Yang Ping , Shen Ping , Tang Yabing
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

An encephalocele is a congenital malformation characterized by protrusion of the intracranial contents through a cranial defect. We report that a fetus of a pregnant mother who had two consecutive pregnancies with ultrasound‐detected encephalocele carried compound heterozygous variants in B3GALNT2 NM_152490.5:c.[1423C > T (p.Gln475Ter)]; [261‐2A > G] of maternal and paternal origins, respectively, as confirmed by exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing validation. The present case implies that mutations in B3GALNT2, a well‐known dystroglycanopathy causative gene, may result in a phenotype of neural tube defect, providing new insights into the clinical spectrum of B3GALNT2‐related disorders. Our study may contribute to prenatal screening/diagnosis and genetic counseling of congenital brain malformations.
2‐Aryl‐3H‐1,3‐Benzazaphosphole Oxides: Synthesis, Optical Properties, and Excited State Intramolecular Proton Transfer
Authors: Nakagomi Hiroaki , Murayama Nina , Takegami Rika , Fujii Kaori , Kitakado Rio , Kimura Yoshifumi , Minoura Mao , Nakano Haruyuki , Matano Yoshihiro
Published: April 2024

Inclusion of a heteroatom to the phosphole ring is a promising strategy to intrinsically modulate the optical properties of phosphole derivatives. We report on a series of 2‐aryl‐3H‐1,3‐benzazaphosphole oxides that were efficiently prepared via sequential C−P cross‐coupling, dehydrative [3+2] cycloaddition, and ring‐oxidation reactions. The inclusion of one nitrogen atom into the benzophosphole framework caused red shifting of the absorption and emission maxima, reflecting the greater stabilization of the LUMO level. 2‐(2‐Hydroxyphenyl)benzazaphosphole oxide underwent excited state intramolecular proton transfer and emitted a weak fluorescence from the excited state of the N−H tautomer.
A Stable Lithium Metal Anode Enabled by the Site‐Directed Lithium Deposition of ZnO‐Nanosheet‐Modified Carbon Cloth
Authors: Zhou Luoting , Yuan Huadong , Fang Ruyi , Huang Hui , Gan Yongping , Xia Yang , Zhang Jun , Xia Xinhui , He Xinping , Zhang Wenkui
Published: April 2024

Uneven lithium (Li) metal deposition typically results in uncontrollable dendrite growth, which renders an unsatisfactory cycling stability and coulombic efficiency (CE) of Li metal batteries (LMBs), preventing their practical application. Herein, a novel carbon cloth with the modification of ZnO nanosheets (ZnO@CC) is fabricated for LMBs. The as‐prepared ZnO@CC with a cross‐linked network significantly reduces the local current density, and the design of ZnO nanosheets can promote the uniform deposition of Li metal as lithiophilic sites. As a result, the Li metal anodes (LMAs) based on ZnO@CC (ZnO@CC@Li) enables a long cycle life over 640 hours with a low overpotential of 65 mV at a current density of 4 mA cm−2 with a capacity of 1 mAh cm−2 in the symmetric cell. Moreover, when coupling the ZnO@CC@Li with a LiFePO4 cathode, the assembled full cell exhibits excellent long cycle and rate performance, highlighting its promising practical application prospect.
A case series of thyroid fine needle aspiration biopsies diagnosed as follicular neoplasm with oncocytic features
Authors: Chen Constance V. , Krishnan Vimal , Greenland Nancy Y.
Published: April 2024

Oncocytic lesions of the thyroid are a heterogeneous group encompassing nonneoplastic and neoplastic entities ranging from benign to malignant and have traditionally been classified as separate entities in thyroid pathology. To illustrate the diversity of these thyroid lesions, we describe three cases of fine needle aspiration biopsies (FNAB) diagnosed as Bethesda Category IV: Follicular neoplasm, oncocytic type, under the 2017 Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology (TBSRTC), with ThyroSeq v3 molecular testing and subsequent surgical excision.
A call to action for more rigorous research on compassion‐focused interventions for eating disorders: Commentary on Paranjothy and Wade (2024)
Authors: Linardon Jake
Published: April 2024

Paranjothy and Wade's (2024) meta‐analysis identifying relations between self‐criticism, self‐compassion, and disordered eating prompted recommendations for augmenting existing front‐line interventions with compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) principles among self‐critical individuals. While in theory this sounds promising, the reality is that the evidence supporting the use of CFT for eating disorders (EDs) is limited. I argue that before any clinical recommendations can made, more research is needed to better understand the utility of CFT, as well as what precise role self‐criticism and self‐compassion play in the context of intervention. In this commentary, I present three critical avenues for future research necessary to achieve this level of understanding. These include: (1) identifying moderators of response in clinical trials so that CFT can be safely delivered to those likely to benefit from this approach and avoided for those likely to experience harm; (2) establishing mediators of change so that we can understand whether CFT works through theory‐specific or common mechanisms; and (3) testing the causal impact of intervention components so that knowledge on how to most effectively trigger the probable mediators of change can be gathered. This commentary will ideally spark further discussion, collaboration, and rigorous research dedicated to improving ED outcomes.

Public Significance

This commentary discusses the importance of further research dedicated towards enhancing understanding of the utility of compassion‐focused interventions for eating disorders. It calls for more research on (1) testing moderators of response, (2) identifying mechanisms of change, and (3) establishing the most effective intervention components.