bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human Chorionic Membrane‐derived Tunable Hydrogels for Vascular Tissue Engineering Strategies
Authors: Martins Elisa A.G. , Deus Inês A. , Gomes Maria C. , Silva Ana S. , Mano João F. , Custódio Catarina A.
Published: August 2024

One of the foremost targets in the advancement of biomaterials to engineer vascularized tissues is not only to replicate the composition of the intended tissue but also to create thicker structures incorporating a vascular network for adequate nutrients and oxygen supply. For the first time, to the best of current knowledge, a clinically relevant biomaterial is developed, demonstrating that hydrogels made from the human decellularized extracellular matrix can exhibit robust mechanical properties (in the kPa range) and angiogenic capabilities simultaneously. These properties enable the culture and organization of human umbilical vein endothelial cells into tubular structures, maintaining their integrity for 14 days in vitro without the need for additional polymers or angiogenesis‐related factors. This is achieved by repurposing the placenta chorionic membrane (CM), a medical waste with an exceptional biochemical composition, into a valuable resource for bioengineering purposes. After decellularization, the CM underwent chemical modification with methacryloyl groups, giving rise to methacrylated CM (CMMA). CMMA preserved key proteins, as well as glycosaminoglycans. The resulting hydrogels rapidly photopolymerize and have enhanced strength and customizable mechanical properties. Furthermore, they demonstrate angio‐vasculogenic competence in vitro and in vivo, holding significant promise as a humanized platform for the engineering of vascularized tissues.
Light Emissive Nanocomposites Containing a Blue Fluorescent Dicationic Tetraphenylethene and a Red Phosphorescent [Mo6I8(OCOC2F5)6]2− Octahedral Cluster for Optical Writing
Authors: Kashnik Ilya V. , Yang Binying , Dumait Noée , Cordier Marie , Brylev Konstantin A. , Bouit Pierre‐Antoine , Molard Yann
Published: August 2024

An emissive organic–inorganic hybrid material is obtained by a cationic metathesis between a blue fluorescent tetraphenylethylene‐based salt: [TPEIm2]I2, and a red‐NIR phosphorescent octahedral molybdenum cluster compound: Cs2[Mo6I8(OCOC2F5)6]. As demonstrated by Single Crystal X‐Ray Diffraction, the hybrid [TPEIm2][Mo6I8(OCOC2F5)6] crystallizes as a 2:2 dimer and emits in the red‐NIR area. Its emission properties are studied in the solid state and once embedded in poly(methylmethacrylate) by steady state and time dependent photoluminescence spectroscopy. They are further compared to the case in which the two starting salts are directly integrated in the polymer matrix. Obtained nanocomposites show evanescent UV‐2A optical writing and reading behavior, with color contrasts depending on how emitters have been introduced.
Extracellular Vesicles from Compression‐Loaded Cementoblasts Promote the Tissue Repair Function of Macrophages
Authors: Yang Yuhui , Liu Hao , Guo Kunyao , Yu Qianyao , Zhao Yi , Wang Jiayi , Huang Yiping , Li Weiran
Published: August 2024

Treatment strategies for hard tissue defects aim to establish a mineralized microenvironment that facilitates tissue remodeling. As a mineralized tissue, cementum shares a similar structure with bone and exhibits an excellent capacity to resist resorption under compression. Macrophages are crucial for mineralized remodeling; however, their functional alterations in the microenvironment of cementum remain poorly understood. Therefore, this study explores the mechanisms by which cementum resists resorption under compression and the regulatory roles of cementoblasts in macrophage functions. As a result, extracellular vesicles from compression‐loaded cementoblasts (Comp‐EVs) promote macrophage M2 polarization and enhance the clearance of apoptotic cells (efferocytosis) by 2‐ to 3‐fold. Local injection of Comp‐EVs relieves cementum destruction in mouse root resorption model by activating the tissue repair function of macrophages. Moreover, Comp‐EV‐loaded hydrogels achieve significant bone healing in calvarial bone defect. Unexpectedly, under compression, EV secretion in cementoblasts is reduced by half. RNA‐Seq analysis and verification reveal that Rab35 expression decreases by 60% under compression, thereby hampering the release of EVs. Rab35 overexpression is proposed as a modification of cementoblasts to boost the yield of Comp‐EVs. Collectively, Comp‐EVs activate the repair function of macrophages, which will be a potential therapeutic strategy for hard tissue repair and regeneration.
Ultrafast Two‐Color X‐Ray Emission Spectroscopy Reveals Excited State Landscape in a Base Metal Dyad
Authors: Nowakowski Michal , Huber‐Gedert Marina , Elgabarty Hossam , Kalinko Aleksandr , Kubicki Jacek , Kertmen Ahmet , Lindner Natalia , Khakhulin Dmitry , Lima Frederico A. , Choi Tae‐Kyu , Biednov Mykola , Schmitz Lennart , Piergies Natalia , Zalden Peter , Kubicek Katharina , Rodriguez‐Fernandez Angel , Salem Mohammad Alaraby , Canton Sophie E. , Bressler Christian , Kühne Thomas D. , Gawelda Wojciech , Bauer Matthias
Published: August 2024

Effective photoinduced charge transfer makes molecular bimetallic assemblies attractive for applications as active light‐induced proton reduction systems. Developing competitive base metal dyads is mandatory for a more sustainable future. However, the electron transfer mechanisms from the photosensitizer to the proton reduction catalyst in base metal dyads remain so far unexplored. A Fe─Co dyad that exhibits photocatalytic H2 production activity is studied using femtosecond X‐ray emission spectroscopy, complemented by ultrafast optical spectroscopy and theoretical time‐dependent DFT calculations, to understand the electronic and structural dynamics after photoexcitation and during the subsequent charge transfer process from the FeII photosensitizer to the cobaloxime catalyst. This novel approach enables the simultaneous measurement of the transient X‐ray emission at the iron and cobalt K‐edges in a two‐color experiment. With this methodology, the excited state dynamics are correlated to the electron transfer processes, and evidence of the Fe→Co electron transfer as an initial step of proton reduction activity is unraveled.
Generation of Anti‐Mastitis Gene‐Edited Dairy Goats with Enhancing Lysozyme Expression by Inflammatory Regulatory Sequence using ISDra2‐TnpB System
Authors: Feng Rui , Zhao Jianglin , Zhang Qian , Zhu Zhenliang , Zhang Junyu , Liu Chengyuan , Zheng Xiaoman , Wang Fan , Su Jie , Ma Xianghai , Mi Xiaoyu , Guo Lin , Yan Xiaoxue , Liu Yayi , Li Huijia , Chen Xu , Deng Yi , Wang Guoyan , Zhang Yong , Liu Xu , Liu Jun
Published: August 2024

Gene‐editing technology has become a transformative tool for the precise manipulation of biological genomes and holds great significance in the field of animal disease‐resistant breeding. Mastitis, a prevalent disease in animal husbandry, imposes a substantial economic burden on the global dairy industry. In this study, a regulatory sequence gene editing breeding strategy for the successful creation of a gene‐edited dairy (GED) goats with enhanced mastitis resistance using the ISDra2‐TnpB system and dairy goats as the model animal is proposed. This included the targeted integration of an innate inflammatory regulatory sequence (IRS) into the promoter region of the lysozyme (LYZ) gene. Upon Escherichia Coli (E. coli) mammary gland infection, GED goats exhibited increased LYZ expression, showing robust anti‐mastitis capabilities, mitigating PANoptosis activation, and alleviating blood‐milk‐barrier (BMB) damage. Notably, LYZ is highly expressed only in E. coli infection. This study marks the advent of anti‐mastitis gene‐edited animals with exogenous‐free gene expression and demonstrates the feasibility of the gene‐editing strategy proposed in this study. In addition, it provides a novel gene‐editing blueprint for developing disease‐resistant strains, focusing on disease specificity and biosafety while providing a research basis for the widespread application of the ISDra2‐TnpB system.
2D Super‐Resolution Metrology Based on Superoscillatory Light
Authors: Wang Yu , Chan Eng Aik , Rendón‐Barraza Carolina , Shen Yijie , Plum Eric , Ou Jun‐Yu
Published: August 2024

Progress in the semiconductor industry relies on the development of increasingly compact devices consisting of complex geometries made from diverse materials. Precise, label‐free, and real‐time metrology is needed for the characterization and quality control of such structures in both scientific research and industry. However, optical metrology of 2D sub‐wavelength structures with nanometer resolution remains a major challenge. Here, a single‐shot and label‐free optical metrology approach that determines 2D features of nanostructures, is introduced. Accurate experimental measurements with a random statistical error of 18 nm (λ/27) are demonstrated, while simulations suggest that 6 nm (λ/81) may be possible. This is far beyond the diffraction limit that affects conventional metrology. This metrology employs neural network processing of images of the 2D nano‐objects interacting with a phase singularity of the incident topologically structured superoscillatory light. A comparison between conventional and topologically structured illuminations shows that the presence of a singularity with a giant phase gradient substantially improves the retrieval of object information in such an optical metrology. This non‐invasive nano‐metrology opens a range of application opportunities for smart manufacturing processes, quality control, and advanced materials characterization.
Lactylome Analysis Unveils Lactylation‐Dependent Mechanisms of Stemness Remodeling in the Liver Cancer Stem Cells
Authors: Feng Fan , Wu Jiaqin , Chi Qingjia , Wang Shunshun , Liu Wanqian , Yang Li , Song Guanbin , Pan Lianhong , Xu Kang , Wang Chunli
Published: August 2024

Lactate plays a critical role as an energy substrate, metabolite, and signaling molecule in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Intracellular lactate‐derived protein lysine lactylation (Kla) is identified as a contributor to the progression of HCC. Liver cancer stem cells (LCSCs) are believed to be the root cause of phenotypic and functional heterogeneity in HCC. However, the impact of Kla on the biological processes of LCSCs remains poorly understood. Here enhanced glycolytic metabolism, lactate accumulation, and elevated levels of lactylation are observed in LCSCs compared to HCC cells. H3K56la was found to be closely associated with tumourigenesis and stemness of LCSCs. Notably, a comprehensive examination of the lactylome and proteome of LCSCs and HCC cells identified the ALDOA K230/322 lactylation, which plays a critical role in promoting the stemness of LCSCs. Furthermore, this study demonstrated the tight binding between aldolase A (ALDOA) and dead box deconjugate enzyme 17 (DDX17), which is attenuated by ALDOA lactylation, ultimately enhancing the regulatory function of DDX17 in maintaining the stemness of LCSCs. This investigation highlights the significance of Kla in modulating the stemness of LCSCs and its impact on the progression of HCC. Targeting lactylation in LCSCs may offer a promising therapeutic approach for treating HCC.
Poly(benzodifurandione) Coated Silk Yarn for Thermoelectric Textiles
Authors: Craighero Mariavittoria , Li Qifan , Zeng Zijin , Choi Chunghyeon , Kim Youngseok , Yoon Hyungsub , Liu Tiefeng , Sowinski Przemyslaw , Haraguchi Shuichi , Hwang Byungil , Mihiretie Besira , Fabiano Simone , Müller Christian
Published: August 2024

Thermoelectric textile devices represent an intriguing avenue for powering wearable electronics. The lack of air‐stable n‐type polymers has, until now, prevented the development of n‐type multifilament yarns, which are needed for textile manufacturing. Here, the thermomechanical properties of the recently reported n‐type polymer poly(benzodifurandione) (PBFDO) are explored and its suitability as a yarn coating material is assessed. The outstanding robustness of the polymer facilitates the coating of silk yarn that, as a result, displays an effective bulk conductivity of 13 S cm−1, with a projected half‐life of 3.2 ± 0.7 years at ambient conditions. Moreover, the n‐type PBFDO coated silk yarn with a Young's modulus of E = 0.6 GPa and a strain at break of εbreak = 14% can be machine washed, with only a threefold decrease in conductivity after seven washing cycles. PBFDO and poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS) coated silk yarns are used to fabricate two out‐of‐plane thermoelectric textile devices: a thermoelectric button and a larger thermopile with 16 legs. Excellent air stability is paired with an open‐circuit voltage of 17 mV and a maximum output power of 0.67 µW for a temperature difference of 70 K. Evidently, PBFDO coated multifilament silk yarn is a promising component for the realization of air stable thermoelectric textile devices.
Optimizing the Ferroelectric Performance of Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 Epitaxial Film by La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 Capping Layer
Authors: Liu Kuan , Liu Kai , Zhang Xingchang , Jin Feng , Fang Jie , Hua Enda , Ye Huan , Zhang Jinfeng , Liang Zhengguo , Lv Qiming , Wu Wenbin , Ma Chao , Wang Lingfei
Published: August 2024

Hafnium‐oxide‐based ferroelectrics have garnered considerable research interest, primarily for their robust ferroelectricity at the nanoscale and their high compatibility with complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductors processes. However, the impact of electrodes on the ferroelectric properties of hafnium‐oxide layer, particularly that of top electrodes, is not yet fully understood even in the simplest capacitor geometry. In this study, the La0.67Sr0.33MnO3/Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (LSMO/HZO) epitaxial heterostructure is utilized as a model system to conduct a systematic comparative study on ferroelectricity between the LSMO/HZO (H‐LS) bilayer and LSMO/HZO/LSMO (LS‐H‐LS) trilayer samples. In comparison to the H‐LS sample, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits a more uniform polar domain configuration and larger ferroelectric polarization. Moreover, the LS‐H‐LS sample exhibits significant improvements in leakage, endurance, and retention. These substantial enhancements in ferroelectricity are likely due to interfacial stress imposed by the LSMO capping layer and its capacity to accommodate extra oxygen vacancies. These results underscore the pivotal role of oxide‐based top electrodes in determining the ferroelectricity of hafnium‐oxide‐based heterostructures, providing crucial insights for optimizing the performance of innovative ferroelectric devices.
Carbon‐Based Textile‐Structured Triboelectric Nanogenerators for Smart Wearables
Authors: Sayam Abdullah , Rahman Md. Mahfuzur , Sayem Abu Sadat Muhammad , Ahmed A. T. M. Faiz , Alimuzzaman Shah
Published: August 2024

Recent advances in wearable electronics have been propelled by the rapid growth of microelectronics and Internet of Things. The proliferation of electronic devices and sensors relies heavily on power sources, predominantly batteries, with significant implications for the environment. To address this concern and to reduce carbon emissions, there is a growing emphasis on renewable energy harvesting technologies, among which textile‐based triboelectric nanogenerators (T‐TENGs) stand out as an innovative and sustainable solution due to having the interesting characteristics like large contact area, lightweight design, flexibility, comfort, scalability, and breathability. T‐TENGs can harness mechanical energy from human movement and convert it into electric energy. However, one of the challenges is low electric power output, which can be addressed by meticulous selection of material pairs with significant differences in work function and optimizing contact areas. The incorporation of carbon‐based nanomaterials, such as carbon nanotubes and graphene, emerges as a key strategy to enhance output. This review delineates recent progress in T‐TENGs incorporating carbonaceous nanofillers, comprehensively addressing fundamental classification, operational mode, structural design, working performance, and potential challenges that are hindering commercialization. By doing this, this review aims to stimulate future investigations into sustainable, high‐performance smart wearables integrated with T‐TENGs.
The response of a sorghum sudangrass cover crop to residual nitrogen and its relationship with spectral sensors
Authors: Netto‐Ferreira Julia Barra , de Sá Leitão Diego Arruda Huggins , Griffin Winniefred , Sharma Lakesh K. , Maltais‐Landry Gabriel
Published: August 2024

A sorghum sudangrass (SSG) cover crop grown after a cash crop could take up residual nitrogen (N) before it is lost. As in‐field monitoring of SSG properties is laborious, predicting biomass and N concentrations with spectral sensors could be useful. At two sites in Live Oak, Florida, we evaluated the response of SSG to residual N from previous N fertilization and the performance of handheld and satellite sensors in estimating SSG properties. We quantified aboveground biomass, plant N, leaf greenness (NDVI), net potential N mineralization (PNM), and soil permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC). Residual N did not affect SSG properties, PNM was highest at the highest N input rate in one site, and soil POXC was correlated with SSG properties (biomass and plant N). NDVI measured from a handheld sensor better predicted SSG properties than satellite imagery in these small plots, suggesting a greater potential to be a useful management tool.
Development and assessment of analytic methods to improve the measurement of cognition in longitudinal studies of aging through the use of substudies with comprehensive neuropsychological testing
Authors: Nichols Emma , Jones Richard N. , Gross Alden L. , Hayat Shabina , Zaninotto Paola , Lee Jinkook
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION

The Health and Retirement Study International Partner Surveys (HRS IPS) have rich longitudinal data, but the brevity of cognitive batteries is a limitation.

METHODS

We used data from a substudy of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) administering detailed cognitive assessments with the Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (ELSA‐HCAP) (N = 1273) to inform approaches for estimating cognition in ELSA (N = 11,213). We compared two novel approaches: confirmatory factor analysis (CFA)‐ and regression‐based prediction.

RESULTS

Compared to estimates from the full HCAP battery, estimated cognitive functioning derived using regression models or CFA had high correlations (regression: r = 0.85 [95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.83 to 0.87]; CFA: r = 0.83 [95% CI: 0.81 to 0.85]) and reasonable mean squared error (regression: 0.25 [0.22 to 0.27]; CFA: 0.29 [0.26 to 0.32]) in held‐out data. The use of additional items from waves 7 to 9 improved performance.

DISCUSSION

Both approaches are recommended for future research; the similarity in approaches may be due to the brevity of available cognitive assessments in ELSA.

Highlights

Estimates of cognitive functioning informed by English Longitudinal Study of Ageing‐Harmonized Cognitive Assessment Protocol (ELSA‐HCAP) data had an adequate performance.

Standard errors were smaller for associations with example risks when using measures informed by ELSA‐HCAP.

Performance was better when including additional cognitive measures available in waves 7 to 9.

Conceptual advantages to the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) approach were not important in practice due to the brevity of the ELSA cognitive battery.
Peptide ligands for the universal purification of exosomes by affinity chromatography
Authors: Kilgore Ryan E. , Moore Brandyn D. , Sripada Sobhana A. , Chu Wenning , Shastry Shriarjun , Barbieri Eduardo , Hu Shiqi , Tian Weihua , Petersen Heidi , Mohammadifar Mohammad , Simpson Aryssa , Brown Ashley , Lavoie Joseph , Elhanafi Driss , Goletz Steffen , Cheng Ke , Daniele Michael A. , Menegatti Stefano
Published: August 2024

Exosomes are gaining prominence as vectors for drug delivery, vaccination, and regenerative medicine. Owing to their surface biochemistry, which reflects the parent cell membrane, these nanoscale biologics feature low immunogenicity, tunable tissue tropism, and the ability to carry a variety of payloads across biological barriers. The heterogeneity of exosomes' size and composition, however, makes their purification challenging. Traditional techniques, like ultracentrifugation and filtration, afford low product yield and purity, and jeopardizes particle integrity. Affinity chromatography represents an excellent avenue for exosome purification. Yet, current affinity media rely on antibody ligands whose selectivity grants high product purity, but mandates the customization of adsorbents for exosomes with different surface biochemistry while their binding strength imposes elution conditions that may harm product's activity. Addressing these issues, this study introduces the first peptide affinity ligands for the universal purification of exosomes from recombinant feedstocks. The peptides were designed to (1) possess promiscuous biorecognition of exosome markers, without binding process‐related contaminants and (2) elute the product under conditions that safeguard product stability. Selected ligands SNGFKKHI and TAHFKKKH demonstrated the ability to capture of exosomes secreted by 14 cell sources and purified exosomes derived from HEK293, PC3, MM1, U87, and COLO1 cells with yields of up to 80% and up‐to 50‐fold reduction of host cell proteins (HCPs) upon eluting with pH gradient from 7.4 to 10.5, recommended for exosome stability. SNGFKKHI‐Toyopearl resin was finally employed in a two‐step purification process to isolate exosomes from HEK293 cell fluids, affording a yield of 68% and reducing the titer of HCPs to 68 ng/mL. The biomolecular and morphological features of the isolated exosomes were confirmed by analytical chromatography, Western blot analysis, transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis.
Characterizing white matter connectome abnormalities in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy using threshold‐free network‐based statistics
Authors: Chu Daniel Y , Imhoff‐Smith Theodore P , Nair Veena A , Choi Timothy , Adluru Anusha , Garcia‐Ramos Camille , Dabbs Kevin , Mathis Jedidiah , Nencka Andrew S , Conant Lisa , Binder Jeffrey R , Meyerand Mary E , Alexander Andrew L , Struck Aaron F , Hermann Bruce , Prabhakaran Vivek , Adluru Nagesh
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Emerging evidence illustrates that temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) involves network disruptions represented by hyperexcitability and other seizure‐related neural plasticity. However, these associations are not well‐characterized. Our study characterizes the whole brain white matter connectome abnormalities in TLE patients compared to healthy controls (HCs) from the prospective Epilepsy Connectome Project study. Furthermore, we assessed whether aberrant white matter connections are differentially related to cognitive impairment and a history of focal‐to‐bilateral tonic–clonic (FBTC) seizures.

Methods

Multi‐shell connectome MRI data were preprocessed using the DESIGNER guidelines. The IIT Destrieux gray matter atlas was used to derive the 162 × 162 structural connectivity matrices (SCMs) using MRTrix3. ComBat data harmonization was applied to harmonize the SCMs from pre‐ and post‐scanner upgrade acquisitions. Threshold‐free network‐based statistics were used for statistical analysis of the harmonized SCMs. Cognitive impairment status and FBTC seizure status were then correlated with these findings.

Results

We employed connectome measurements from 142 subjects, including 92 patients with TLE (36 males, mean age = 40.1 ± 11.7 years) and 50 HCs (25 males, mean age = 32.6 ± 10.2 years). Our analysis revealed overall significant decreases in cross‐sectional area (CSA) of the white matter tract in TLE group compared to controls, indicating decreased white matter tract integrity and connectivity abnormalities in addition to apparent differences in graph theoretic measures of connectivity and network‐based statistics. Focal and generalized cognitive impaired TLE patients showcased higher trend‐level abnormalities in the white matter connectome via decreased CSA than those with no cognitive impairment. Patients with a positive FBTC seizure history also showed trend‐level findings of association via decreased CSA.

Conclusions

Widespread global aberrant white matter connectome changes were observed in TLE patients and characterized by seizure history and cognitive impairment, laying a foundation for future studies to expand on and validate the novel biomarkers and further elucidate TLE's impact on brain plasticity.
Developing an incentive‐based model for efficient product recovery and reverse logistics
Authors: Gautam Deepak , Bolia Nomesh
Published: August 2024

This study presents an inventive model aligning with sustainable development goals (SDGs) 11, 12, and 9. SDG 11 emphasizes sustainable urban aspects, SDG 12 centers on responsible consumption, and SDG 9 highlights resilient infrastructure. Focused on enhancing operational profits, the model integrates a robust reverse logistics network and policy framework to ensure safe disposal and environmental preservation. Employing the CPLEX solver software, we evaluated various methodologies, including proximity‐based allocation, set covering problems, p‐median allocation, and capacity‐relaxed models, to maximize profitability and efficiency in battery return systems. Our findings underscored the limitations of conventional proximity‐based methods, emphasizing the necessity of advanced optimization. Scenario 3, utilizing the p‐median problem, emerged as the most profitable, optimizing customer allocation and reducing distance‐related costs. Additionally, our sensitivity analysis highlighted the collection rate parameter's pivotal role in influencing customer behavior and overall system profitability. The study also emphasizes the significance of accessible collection centers, revealing disparities in accessibility across customer zones. These findings call for nuanced analyses to ensure equitable access. Implications include advocating for strategic policies to enhance collection rates, optimize center accessibility, and promote responsible disposal, benefiting policymakers, industry professionals, and environmental stakeholders. Ultimately, this research contributes to sustainable practices, fostering eco‐conscious societies, and accelerating progress toward SDGs.
Organisational identification and workers' well‐being: The mediating role of trust, meaning of work and self‐objectification
Authors: Teresi Manuel , Barattucci Massimiliano , Telesca Giovanni , Andrighetto Luca , Baldissarri Cristina , Pagliaro Stefano
Published: August 2024

Given the recognised benefits of organisational identification (OI) on workers' well‐being, we investigated the underlying mechanisms of this association in this work. We conducted a cross‐sectional study (N = 192) to examine the possible mediating role of three factors related to individuals' workplace experiences (organisational trust, the meaning of work and self‐objectification) in the relationship between OI and well‐being. Specifically, the research aims to examine the relationship between identification in the workplace and favourable well‐being outcomes. The study results demonstrated the significant indirect effects of the hypothesised model. In particular, OI was positively related to well‐being via increased trust and meaning of work and through a reduced self‐objectification experience. The findings highlight the significance of OI in relation to distal outcomes despite the potential presence of negative perceptual experiences within the relationship. This study seeks to offer innovative perspectives through which we can observe the relationship between less‐examined variables within the workplace, thus providing guidance for practitioners and researchers in this field.
CD34+ stromal cells/telocytes and their role in mouse lung development: Light microscopy, immunofluorescence, ultrastructural and scanning electron microscopy evidence
Authors: Dama Ganesh , Xue Chengxu , Zhang Yangxia , Li Dezhuang , Fan Jinyu , Qiao Liang , Xu Zhihao , Yang Ciqing , Liu Yanli , Abdullah Mohammad Farris Iman Leong Bin , Lin Juntang
Published: August 2024

Telocytes (TCs), a novel type of mesenchymal or interstitial cell with specific, very long and thin cellular prolongations, have been found in various mammalian organs and have potential biological functions. However, their existence during lung development is poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the existence, morphological features, and role of CD34+ SCs/TCs in mouse lungs from foetal to postnatal life using primary cell culture, double immunofluorescence, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The immunofluorescence double staining profiles revealed positive expression of CD34 and PDGFR‐α, Sca‐1 or VEGFR‐3, and the expression of these markers differed among the age groups during lung development. Intriguingly, in the E18.5 stage of development, along with the CD34+ SCs/TCs, haematopoietic stem cells and angiogenic factors were also significantly increased in number compared with those in the E14.5, E16.5, P0 and P7. Subsequently, TEM confirmed that CD34+ SCs/TCs consisted of a small cell body with long telopodes (Tps) that projected from the cytoplasm. Tps consisted of alternating thin and thick segments known as podomers and podoms. TCs contain abundant endoplasmic reticulum, mitochondria and secretory vesicles and establish close connections with neighbouring cells. Furthermore, SEM revealed characteristic features, including triangular, oval, spherical, or fusiform cell bodies with extensive cellular prolongations, depending on the number of Tps. Our findings provide evidence for the existence of CD34+ SCs/TCs, which contribute to vasculogenesis, the formation of the air‒blood barrier, tissue organization during lung development and homoeostasis.
Absorption, Metabolism, and Excretion of [14C]‐Labeled Anaprazole: A New Proton Pump Inhibitor, After a Single Oral Administration in Healthy Chinese Male Subjects
Authors: Xie Lijun , Xu Yanjun , Liu Wei , Zhou Chen , Guo Lian , Zhou Sufeng , Zhang Chen , Chen Juan , Zhu Bei , Ding Sijia , Li Huan , Zhang Lingling , Wang Li , Xu Lingmei , Shao Feng , Wang Lu
Published: August 2024

Anaprazole is a proton pump inhibitor. This study aims to elucidate absorption, metabolism, and excretion pathways of anaprazole sodium in the human body. A total of 4 healthy Chinese male subjects were administered a single oral dose of 20 mg/100 µCi of [14C]‐anaprazole sodium enteric‐coated capsules. The whole blood, plasma, and excreta were analyzed for a total radioactivity (TRA) and metabolite profile. The cumulative radioactivity excretion rate was 93.2%, with 53.3% and 39.9% of the radioactive dose excreted in urine and feces, respectively, and 91.6% of dose recovered within 96 hours after dosing. The parent drug, anaprazole, showed good absorption and was extensively metabolized majorly to thioether M8‐1 via nonenzymatic metabolism. Overall, 35 metabolites were identified in plasma, urine, and fecal samples. Anaprazole was the most abundant component in plasma followed by the thioether M8‐1, accounting for 28.3% and 16.6%, respectively, of the plasma TRA. Thioether carboxylic acid XZP‐3409 (26.3% of urine TRA) and XZP‐3409 oxidation and dehydrogenation product M417a (15.1% of fecal TRA) were the major metabolites present in urine and feces, respectively. Anaprazole was undetectable in urine, while fecal samples showed traces (0.07% dose). Blood/plasma ratios of the radioactivity (approximately 0.60) remained consistent over time. Anaprazole showed good absorption and was extensively metabolized majorly to thioether M8‐1 via nonenzymatic metabolism, and cytochrome P450 3A4 also contributed to its metabolism in healthy individuals.
To‐Pack or Not‐to‐Pack: Towards Improved Graphite Electrochemical Oxidation Through Electrode Design
Authors: Subrati Ahmed , Gutiérrez‐Pineda Eduart , Moya Sergio E.
Published: August 2024

Fabrication of batch‐wise efficient, user‐ and environmentally‐friendly, and well‐defined yield methods for the synthesis of graphite oxide, the main precursor to graphene oxide and its reduced derivative, is an essential and robust research field, yet is sparingly investigated or innovated in recent years. This concept review showcases recent potential advances in the fabrication of electrochemical electrodes that meet aforementioned design parameters, wherein working electrode construction is seen to play a key role in shaping the yield characteristics and aiding the mechanistic understanding of efficiency of adopted methods. Particularly, those advances pave the way for new and various tunable design parameters by fabricating different methods of encapsulating graphite powder instead of using conventional bare monolith forms of graphite as working electrode. Encapsulation geometry, pressure, and matrix material, as well as powder size are examples of such tunable design parameters which are lacking in the monolith methods. The encapsulation validates authenticity of real‐time monitoring of electrochemical intercalation, exfoliation, and oxidation of graphite powder, thereby offering excellent and well‐defined control on yield.
Enhancing D/A Interactions via Porphyrin Isomerization to Improve Photovoltaic Performance
Authors: Wu Hanping , Wu Jifa , Tang Feng , Peng Xiaobin
Published: August 2024

The interactions between the electron donors and electron acceptors (D/A) play important roles for the performance of organic solar cells (OSCs). While the isomerization strategy is known to optimize molecular geometries and properties, the impacts of isomerization on the donors or acceptors in D/A interactions have not been extensively investigated. Here in, we innovatively investigated the impacts of donor isomerism on the D/A interactions by synthesizing two small molecule donors m‐ph‐ZnP2 and p‐ph‐ZnP2 by linking two functionalized porphyrins at the meta and para positions of phenyl groups, respectively. Compared with p‐ph‐ZnP2, m‐ph‐ZnP2 displays reduced self‐aggregation but enhanced interactions with PC61BM. Consequently, a much higher power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 5.43 % is achieved for the m‐ph‐ZnP2 binary OSCs than the p‐ph‐ZnP2 devices with a PCE of 2.03 %. The enhanced performance of m‐ph‐ZnP2‐based device can be primarily attributed to the stronger intramolecular charge transfer (ICT), the enhanced D/A interactions, the improved charge transfer, and the suppressed charge recombination. Furthermore, the ternary devices based on m‐ph‐ZnP2:Y6:PC61BM achieve a PCE of 8.34 %. In short, this work elucidates the relationship among the chemical structure, D/A interactions and device performance, providing valuable guidelines for designing efficient OSCs materials.
Correct stimulation of CD28H arms NK cells against tumor cells
Authors: Leau Raphaëlle , Duplouye Pierre , Huchet Virginie , Nerrière‐Daguin Véronique , Martinet Bernard , Néel Mélanie , Morin Martin , Danger Richard , Braudeau Cécile , Josien Régis , Blancho Gilles , Haspot Fabienne
Published: August 2024

Tumor evasion has recently been associated with a novel member of the B7 family, HERV‐H LTR‐associating 2 (HHLA2), which is mostly overexpressed in PDL‐1neg tumors. HHLA2 can either induce a costimulation signal when bound to CD28H or inhibit it by binding to KIR3DL3 on T‐ and NK cells. Given the broad distribution of CD28H expression on NK cells and its role, we compared two monoclonal antibodies targeting this novel NK‐cell engager in this study. We show that targeting CD28H at a specific epitope not only strongly activates Ca2+ flux but also results in NK‐cell activation. CD28H‐activated NK cells further display increased cytotoxic activity against hematopoietic cell lines and bypass HHLA2 and HLA‐E inhibitory signals. Additionally, scRNA‐seq analysis of clear cell renal cancer cells revealed that HHLA2+ clear cell renal cancer cell tumors were infiltrated with CD28H+ NK cells, which could be targeted by finely chosen anti‐CD28H Abs.
Exploring adolescent suicidal trajectories: The intersection of race/ethnicity, gender, and social connectedness
Authors: Luca Susan De , Yan Yueqi , Schueller Darerian , O'Donnell Kari
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Understanding adolescent racial/ethnic and gender disparities in suicidal ideation and attempts longitudinally can help curb future suicidal risk.

Methods

Survey data (1994–2008) from the Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health study, n = 18,887) examined racial/ethnic and gender ideation and attempt disparities over four waves of data from across the United States (51% female; 51% White; Mage = 17.43 years at Wave 1). Repeated‐measures latent class analyses described how ideation and attempt patterns present longitudinally and how racial/ethnic minority groups predict different classes based on each wave and age‐appropriate social supports (i.e., parents, peers).

Results

Those most at‐risk disclosed ideation and some attempt risk in early adolescence (Waves 1 and 2) and mostly identified as female. The second most prevalent group first disclosed ideation in their 20s and predominately identified as non‐Hispanic White females. Peer connections were not significant for most groups except for non‐Hispanic White males in Wave 3, while Black females who reported stronger school connections had decreased ideation and attempt rates in Wave 1 but not 2 (just 1 year later). A negative link between social supports and high‐risk ideation and attempt classes was found among Black females, non‐Hispanic Whites, and Latinos overall.

Conclusions

As the United States becomes more diverse, understanding the unique ideation and attempt disparities are crucial. Tailoring interventions to include risk and protective mechanisms among intersectional communities could eradicate disparities. Longitudinal studies can illuminate how protective and risk factors can change over time and even within and among racial/ethnic and gender groups.
Adverse childhood experiences and psychological maladjustment in adolescence: The protective role of epistemic trust, mentalized affectivity, and reflective functioning
Authors: Tironi Marta , Charpentier Mora Simone , Liotti Marianna , Fiorini Bincoletto Alice , Tanzilli Annalisa , Cavanna Donatella , Lingiardi Vittorio , Speranza Anna Maria , Giovanardi Guido , Bizzi Fabiola
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are psychosocial factors acknowledged as significant contributors to health consequences later in adolescence, including psychological maladjustment. The research suggests that, at a transdiagnostic and transtheoretical level, working on restoring epistemic trust (ET), mentalized affectivity (MA), and reflective functioning (RF) in adolescents with ACEs assumes a central role in the therapeutic process. However, there are still few studies that attempted to investigate the specific role of these sociocognitive factors in the detrimental positive association between levels of experienced ACEs during childhood and psychological maladjustment in nonclinical adolescents.

Methods

A community sample of 306 Italian cisgender adolescents (61.4% assigned females at birth; age range 13–19 years old; Mage = 16.1, SD = 1.64) self‐reported ACEs (Childhood Trauma Questionnaire‐Short Form), psychological maladjustment (Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire), ET (Epistemic Trust, Mistrust and Credulity Questionnaire), MA (Brief‐Mentalized Affectivity Scale for Adolescence), and RF (Reflective Functioning Questionnaire). A multiple mediation regression analysis has been performed to explore the association between ACEs and psychological maladjustment through the interaction with socio‐cognitive factors.

Results

ACEs are positive predictors of psychological maladjustment later in adolescence. Regardless of gender differences, epistemic mistrust and credulity, processing and expressing emotions, and uncertainty about mental states mediated this association, while epistemic trust, identifying emotions, and certainty about mental states did not configure as significant mediators.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that ET disruptions and deficits in RF are risk factors, while MA is a protective factor within the link between ACEs and psychological maladjustment in adolescence. These links help to specify the role of sociocognitive factors in the development of mental problems in adolescents who have been exposed to adverse experiences in childhood.
Prevalence of metabolic syndrome in sickle cell disease patients: A cross‐sectional study at a tertiary hospital in Nepal
Authors: Khadayat Ramesh , Bishwakarma Mukesh , Pant Shubham , Bhatta Om Prakash , Bista Pariwesh Raj , Kamar Sher Bahadur
Published: August 2024

Background

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is the most common hemoglobinopathy caused by an autosomal recessive genetic disorder leading to increased morbidity and mortality rates. SCD is prevalent in the Tharu community in the lowland (Terai) region of Nepal. Prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adults with SCD is poorly studied.

Methodology

This prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted at Seti Provincial Hospital in Dhangadhi, Nepal, among 140 adolescents and adults with SCD, aged 15–60 years. Anthropometric and laboratory data were collected using an assisted questionnaire, and the SPSS software version 23 was used for data analysis. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to summarize the presence of metabolic syndrome and were stratified in separate analyses by age and sex. National Cholesterol Education Program‐Adult Treatment Panel III criteria were used to define metabolic syndrome.

Aim

This cross‐sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among SCD patients with SCD registered at the Seti Provincial Hospital in Dhangadhi, Nepal.

Results

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome in the study participants was 7.8%. Our study revealed 5% of the patients overweight, and 1.4% obese. In this study, the mean triglyceride level was 118.5 mg/dL, and the mean high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) level was 36.2 mg/dL (men) and 36.7 mg/dL (women). This study found that the mean fasting blood glucose level was 88.6 gm/dL. Similarly, 3.5% of patients had increased systolic blood pressure, and 7.8% had raised diastolic blood pressure. Study shows that changes in triglyceride level (p = 0.013), waist circumference, and HDL level (p = 0.0001 and 0.0048, respectively) are significantly associated with smoking or alcohol consumption; however, change in blood pressure (p = 0.013) and fasting blood sugar level (p = 0.086) are not associated with smoking or alcohol consumption.

Conclusion

Study concluded that though a lower proportion of SCD patients met the criteria for metabolic syndrome than in studies conducted in developed countries, it is crucial to consider metabolic syndrome while managing patients with SCD. Nevertheless, the authors advocate a more comprehensive study to draw significant conclusions.
Exploring Codon Usage Patterns and Influencing Factors in Ranavirus DNA Polymerase Genes
Authors: Aktürk Dizman Yeşim
Published: August 2024

Ranaviruses, members of the genus Ranavirus within the family Iridoviridae, have become a significant concern for amphibian populations globally, along with other cold‐blooded vertebrates, due to their emergence as a significant threat. We employed bioinformatics tools to examine the codon usage patterns in 61 DNA pol genes from Ranavirus, Lymphocystivirus, Megalocytivirus, and two unclassified ranaviruses, as no prior studies had been conducted on this topic. The results showed a slight or low level of codon usage bias (CUB) in the DNA pol genes of Ranavirus. Relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis indicated that the predominant codons favored in Ranavirus DNA pol genes terminate with C or G. Correlation analysis examining nucleotide content, third codon position, effective number of codons (ENC), correspondence analysis (COA), Aroma values, and GRAVY values indicated that the CUB across DNA pol genes could be influenced by both mutation pressure and natural selection. The neutrality plot indicated that natural selection is the primary factor driving codon usage. Furthermore, the analysis of the codon adaptation index (CAI) illustrated the robust adaptability of Ranavirus DNA pol genes to their hosts. Analysis of the relative codon deoptimization index (RCDI) suggested that Ranavirus DNA pol genes underwent greater selection pressure from their hosts. These findings will aid in comprehending the factors influencing the evolution and adaptation of Ranavirus to its hosts.
Three‐dimensional‐printed femoral diaphysis for biomechanical testing—Optimization and validation
Authors: Weinschenk Robert C. , Oldham Blaine M. , Nagaraja Kishore M. , Alam Faiqa , Samade Richard , Li Wei
Published: August 2024

Polylactic acid (PLA) models of normal human femoral diaphyses were designed using three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology to create inexpensive, accessible, and reproducible specimens for flexural biomechanical studies. These models were subjected to three‐point bending and their response to loading was characterized. The anisotropic mechanical behavior of the 3D‐printed femurs and the influence of printing orientations, infill density, wall layers, resolution, and other printing parameters were explored to develop a design space. The objective of the design space was set to emulate the flexural biomechanical response of the normal human femur bones. Results show the 3D‐printed PLA diaphyseal femurs with 5% infill density, two–four wall layers, and a resolution of 200 µm resulted in a flexural strength of 184.8 ± 8.18 MPa. Models with 20% infill density and six wall layers resulted in a flexural modulus of 18.54 ± 0.543 GPa. These results emulate the biomechanical response of the normal human femur, as determined by historical target values derived from prior cadaveric and 3D printing data. With further research, inclusive of modeling the proximal and distal femur and more comprehensive biomechanical testing, 3D‐printed femurs may ultimately serve as a cheap, accessible biomechanical resource for surgeons and researchers.
Nitrogen transformation as affected by decomposition of 15N‐labeled cover crop shoots and roots
Authors: Süß Carla , Kemmann Björn , Helfrich Mirjam , Well Reinhard , Flessa Heinz
Published: August 2024

Background

Incorporation of cover crop (cc) shoot and root biomass can have different effects on nitrogen (N) dynamics and the transformation of soil‐derived N and cc N.

Aims

The objective was to determine the effects of different ccs, cc compartments (roots and shoots), and pretreatment of cc biomass (fresh vs. dried) on mineralization processes and on the transformation of soil and cc N following incorporation into a silty loam soil.

Methods

Soil columns with incorporated 15N‐labeled root and shoot biomass of two cc species (winter rye and oil radish) and different pretreatments (dried and fresh) were incubated for 70 days at a constant temperature and soil moisture (8°C, 40% water‐filled pore space). Carbon and N transformation dynamics were determined repeatedly, distinguishing between N originating from cc biomass and from soil.

Results

Net CO2 emission was related to the amount of soluble cell components added with ccs. Net N mineralization was negatively related to the C:N ratio of cc biomass. The incorporation of dried cc biomass caused higher initial soil respiration and N immobilization than fresh biomass. All treatments with cc incorporation showed increased N2O emission. Emitted N2O‐N consisted mainly of cc N (55%–57%) in treatments with fresh shoot biomass, whereas soil N was the main source of N2O (75%) in the treatment with fresh oil radish roots. Recovery of cc 15N was affected by crop compartment and pretreatment. At the end of the incubation, it was 17.5%–42.3% in soil NO3−, 0.1%–8.1% in microbial biomass N, and less than 0.23% of cc N was found in cumulative N2O emission.

Conclusion

The incorporation of cc roots and shoots had different effects on N mobilization and immobilization processes and on the partitioning of cc N. These processes can be influenced significantly by pretreatment of the added plant biomass (dried vs. fresh).