bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic Origin‐Based In Situ Electrochemical Construction of Reversible p‐n Heterojunctions for Optimal Stability in Potassium Ion Storage
Authors: Shen Wei‐Wen , Hsieh Yi‐Yen , Yang Yi‐Chun , Hsiao Kai‐Yuan , Lu Ming‐Yen , Chou Chi Wei , Tuan Hsing‐Yu
Published: March 2024

Heterojunctions in electrode materials offer diverse improvements during the cycling process of energy storage devices, such as volume change buffering, accelerated ion/electron transfer, and better electrode structure integrity, however, obtaining optimal heterostructures with nanoscale domains remains challenging within constrained materials. A novel in situ electrochemical method is introduced to develop a reversible CuSe/PSe p‐n heterojunction (CPS‐h) from Cu3PSe4 as starting material, targeting maximum stability in potassium ion storage. The CPS‐h formation is thermodynamically favorable, characterized by its superior reversibility, minimized diffusion barriers, and enhanced conversion post K+ interaction. Within CPS‐h, the synergy of the intrinsic electric field and P‐Se bonds enhance electrode stability, effectively countering the Se shuttling phenomenon. The specific orientation between CuSe and PSe leads to a 35° lattice mismatch generates large space at the interface, promoting efficient K ion migration. The Mott‐Schottky analysis validates the consistent reversibility of CPS‐h, underlining its electrochemical reliability. Notably, CPS‐h demonstrates a negligible 0.005% capacity reduction over 10,000 half‐cell cycles and remains stable through 2,000 and 4,000 cycles in full cells and hybrid capacitors, respectively. This study emphasizes the pivotal role of electrochemical dynamics in formulating highly stable p‐n heterojunctions, representing a significant advancement in potassium‐ion battery (PIB) electrode engineering.
Pregnane X Receptor Activation in Liver Macrophages Protects against Endotoxin‐Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Zhao Tingting , Zhong Guoping , Wang Ying , Cao Renjie , Song Shaofei , Li Yuan , Wan Guohui , Sun Haiyan , Huang Min , Bi Huichang , Jiang Yiming
Published: March 2024

Endotoxemia‐related acute liver injury has a poor prognosis and high mortality, and macrophage polarization plays a central role in the pathological process. Pregnane X receptor (PXR) serves as a nuclear receptor and xenosensor, safeguarding the liver from toxic stimuli. However, the effect and underlying mechanism of PXR activation on endotoxemic liver injury remain largely unknown. Here, the expression of PXR is reported in human and murine macrophages, and PXR activation modified immunotypes of macrophages. Moreover, PXR activation significantly attenuated endotoxemic liver injury and promoted macrophage M2 polarization. Macrophage depletion by GdCl3 confirmed the essential of macrophages in the beneficial effects observed with PXR activation. The role of PXR in macrophages is further validated using AAV8‐F4/80‐Pxr shRNA‐treated mice; the PXR‐mediated hepatoprotection is impaired, and M2 polarization enhancement is blunted. Additionally, treatment with PXR agonists inhibited lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced M1 polarization and favored M2 polarization in BMDM, Raw264.7, and THP‐1 cells. Further analyses revealed an interaction between PXR and p‐STAT6 in vivo and in vitro. Moreover, blocking Pxr or Stat6 abolished the PXR‐induced polarization shift. Collectively, macrophage PXR activation attenuated endotoxin‐induced liver injury and regulated macrophage polarization through the STAT6 signaling pathway, which provided a potential therapeutic target for managing endotoxemic liver injury.
Histone H3K9 Lactylation Confers Temozolomide Resistance in Glioblastoma via LUC7L2‐Mediated MLH1 Intron Retention
Authors: Yue Qu , Wang Zhao , Shen Yixiong , Lan Yufei , Zhong Xiangyang , Luo Xin , Yang Tao , Zhang Manqing , Zuo Boming , Zeng Tianci , Lu Jiankun , Wang Yuankai , Liu Boyang , Guo Hongbo
Published: March 2024

Temozolomide (TMZ) resistance remains the major obstacle in the treatment of glioblastoma (GBM). Lactylation is a novel post‐translational modification that is involved in various tumors. However, whether lactylation plays a role in GBM TMZ resistance remains unclear. Here it is found that histone H3K9 lactylation (H3K9la) confers TMZ resistance in GBM via LUC7L2‐mediated intron 7 retention of MLH1. Mechanistically, lactylation is upregulated in recurrent GBM tissues and TMZ‐resistant cells, and is mainly concentrated in histone H3K9. Combined multi‐omics analysis, including CUT&Tag, SLAM‐seq, and RNA‐seq, reveals that H3K9 lactylation is significantly enriched in the LUC7L2 promoter and activates LUC7L2 transcription to promote its expression. LUC7L2 mediates intron 7 retention of MLH1 to reduce MLH1 expression, and thereby inhibit mismatch repair (MMR), ultimately leading to GBM TMZ resistance. Of note, it is identified that a clinical anti‐epileptic drug, stiripentol, which can cross the blood–brain barrier and inhibit lactate dehydrogenase A/B (LDHA/B) activity, acts as a lactylation inhibitor and renders GBM cells more sensitive to TMZ in vitro and in vivo. These findings not only shed light on the mechanism of lactylation in GBM TMZ resistance but also provide a potential combined therapeutic strategy for clinical GBM treatment.
Diet Mediate the Impact of Host Habitat on Gut Microbiome and Influence Clinical Indexes by Modulating Gut Microbes and Serum Metabolites
Authors: Zhang Jiguo , Qi Houbao , Li Meihui , Wang Zhihong , Jia Xiaofang , Sun Tianyong , Du Shufa , Su Chang , Zhi Mengfan , Du Wenwen , Ouyang Yifei , Wang Pingping , Huang Feifei , Jiang Hongru , Li Li , Bai Jing , Wei Yanli , Zhang Xiaofan , Wang Huijun , Zhang Bing , Feng Qiang
Published: March 2024

The impact of external factors on the human gut microbiota and how gut microbes contribute to human health is an intriguing question. Here, the gut microbiome of 3,224 individuals (496 with serum metabolome) with 109 variables is studied. Multiple analyses reveal that geographic factors explain the greatest variance of the gut microbiome and the similarity of individuals’ gut microbiome is negatively correlated with their geographic distance. Main food components are the most important factors that mediate the impact of host habitats on the gut microbiome. Diet and gut microbes collaboratively contribute to the variation of serum metabolites, and correlate to the increase or decrease of certain clinical indexes. Specifically, systolic blood pressure is lowered by vegetable oil through increasing the abundance of Blautia and reducing the serum level of 1‐palmitoyl‐2‐palmitoleoyl‐GPC (16:0/16:1), but it is reduced by fruit intake through increasing the serum level of Blautia improved threonate. Besides, aging‐related clinical indexes are also closely correlated with the variation of gut microbes and serum metabolites. In this study, the linkages of geographic locations, diet, the gut microbiome, serum metabolites, and physiological indexes in a Chinese population are characterized. It is proved again that gut microbes and their metabolites are important media for external factors to affect human health.
Non‐Metal Ion Storage in Zinc‐Organic Batteries
Authors: Song Ziyang , Miao Ling , Lv Yaokang , Gan Lihua , Liu Mingxian
Published: March 2024

Zinc‐organic batteries (ZOBs) are receiving widespread attention as up‐and‐coming energy‐storage systems due to their sustainability, operational safety and low cost. Charge carrier is one of the critical factors affecting the redox kinetics and electrochemical performances of ZOBs. Compared with conventional large‐sized and sluggish Zn2+ storage, non‐metallic charge carriers with small hydrated size and light weight show accelerated interfacial dehydration and fast reaction kinetics, enabling superior electrochemical metrics for ZOBs. Thus, it is valuable and ongoing works to build better ZOBs with non‐metallic ion storage. In this review, versatile non‐metallic cationic (H+, NH4+) and anionic (Cl−, OH−, CF3SO3−, SO42−) charge carriers of ZOBs are first categorized with a brief comparison of their respective physicochemical properties and chemical interactions with redox‐active organic materials. Furthermore, this work highlights the implementation effectiveness of non‐metallic ions in ZOBs, giving insights into the impact of ion types on the metrics (capacity, rate capability, operation voltage, and cycle life) of organic cathodes. Finally, the challenges and perspectives of non‐metal‐ion‐based ZOBs are outlined to guild the future development of next‐generation energy communities.
Enhanced Reactivities of Iron(IV)‐Oxo Porphyrin Species in Oxidation Reactions Promoted by Intramolecular Hydrogen‐Bonding
Authors: Gong Zhe , Wang Liwei , Xu Yiran , Xie Duanfeng , Qi Xiaotian , Nam Wonwoo , Guo Mian
Published: March 2024

High‐valent iron‐oxo species are one of the common intermediates in both biological and biomimetic catalytic oxidation reactions. Recently, hydrogen‐bonding (H‐bonding) has been proved to be critical in determining the selectivity and reactivity. However, few examples have been established for mechanistic insights into the H‐bonding effect. Moreover, intramolecular H‐bonding effect on both C‐H activation and oxygen atom transfer (OAT) reactions in synthetic porphyrin model system has not been investigated yet. In this study, a series of heme‐containing iron(IV)‐oxo porphyrin species with or without intramolecular H‐bonding are synthesized and characterized. Kinetic studies revealed that intramolecular H‐bonding can significantly enhance the reactivity of iron(IV)‐oxo species in OAT, C‐H activation, and electron‐transfer reactions. This unprecedented unified H‐bonding effect is elucidated by theoretical calculations, which showed that intramolecular H‐bonding interactions lower the energy of the anti‐bonding orbital of iron(IV)‐oxo porphyrin species, resulting in the enhanced reactivities in oxidation reactions irrespective of the reaction type. To the best of the knowledge, this is the first extensive investigation on the intramolecular H‐bonding effect in heme system. The results show that H‐bonding interactions have a unified effect with iron(IV)‐oxo porphyrin species in all three investigated reactions.
Rational Combination of π‐Conjugated and Non‐π‐Conjugated Groups Achieving Strong Nonlinear Optical Response, Large Optical Anisotropy, and UV Light‐Switchable Fluorescence
Authors: Dou Danyang , Shi Qi , Li Huimin , Zhang Bingbing , Yang Daqing , Wang Ying
Published: March 2024

Combining π‐conjugated and non‐π‐conjugated groups is an important strategy for synthesizing new nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals. However, the second harmonic generation (SHG) response and optical anisotropy can be limited by improper spatial alignment of these functional groups in the crystal structure. In this work, it is revealed that non‐π‐conjugated [NH2SO3] group acts as both hydrogen bond donor and acceptor, effectively regulating the 2D planar structure formed by π‐conjugated [C4N3H6] groups. The resulting organic–inorganic hybrid crystal C4N3H6SO3NH2 exhibits a strong SHG response (2.5 × KDP), large optical anisotropy (0.233@546 nm), and blue‐violet and green fluorescence near 360 and 520 nm, respectively. This work expands the methodology for creating new NLO crystals through organic–inorganic hybridization, while also showcasing the potential of C4N3H6SO3NH2 as a multifunctional optical material.
Feasting in mussel farms fattens up snapper (Chrysophrys auratus) compared to snapper in adjacent natural habitats
Authors: Underwood Lucy H. , Mugica Maria , Jeffs Andrew G.
Published: March 2024

The presence of wild fish in and around aquaculture habitats is often assumed a response to food resources within these habitats, either from input feed, the presence of cultured species, and/or the assemblage of biofouling that naturally colonises aquaculture structures. The nutritional quality of the food resources consumed by wild fish in aquaculture habitats is also important in determining their nutritional condition and subsequent productivity. Few studies have investigated the nutritional quality of prey in aquaculture habitats, and these have mostly focused on fed aquaculture by tracking manufactured fish pellets into the diets of wild fish. However, in non‐fed aquaculture, the assemblage of cultured and biofouling species may also provide a nutritional benefit to fish feeding in these habitats. The Australasian snapper, Chrysophrys auratus, are commonly present as adults within coastal mussel farms in New Zealand and tend to become a resident species. This study investigated the nutritional quality of the gut contents of snapper in soft‐sediment habitats within and outside of New Zealand green‐lipped mussel farms. Total lipid, protein, carbohydrate and total calorific content were measured from the gut contents of snapper sampled from mussel farm and natural (i.e. control) habitats. Snapper in mussel farms had double the dietary intake of lipid (16% vs. 8%) from consuming lipid‐rich bivalves and barnacles which are in abundance in mussel farms. Higher lipid intake can contribute to improved nutritional condition, reproduction and growth in snapper. However, the higher dietary lipid intake of snapper in mussel farms did not increase their overall body condition (i.e. Fulton condition index). This may be due to the coarse nature of this measure, or the use of the additional lipid in more rapid somatic growth or reproductive outputs, possibilities that warrant examination through further research. Overall, this study shows for the first time the potential ecosystem benefits of shellfish aquaculture in provisioning nutritionally valuable prey for coastal fish populations.
Mesoporous coordinated polymers with single‐metal‐site iridium for efficient catalysis in propylene hydroformylation
Authors: Yao Chenfei , Xiong Wenjie , Sun Haining , Wang Xin , Zhang Zhibing , Hu Xingbang
Published: March 2024

Heterogeneous single‐metal‐site catalysts (SMSCs) have received increasing attention due to their outstanding stability and recyclability. In this work, a novel Ir‐based SMSC was successfully constructed through the coordination polymerization between zirconium and triphenylphosphine derivatives with carboxyl functional groups for efficient propylene hydroformylation with CO. The Ir‐based SMSC reported here can achieve a turnover number of over 20,000 (being 7.3 times higher than the most effective Ir‐base catalyst to date) with 99% selectivity and 56% yield for aldehyde. Besides, it represents the first example with a higher selectivity of isobutyraldehyde than n‐butyraldehyde (i.e., n/i = 0.62) among the reported Ir‐based catalysts. The Ir‐based SMSC can be easily reused for at least 10 cycles without losing its reactivity, whereas the homogeneous monomer catalyst quickly loses its reactivity after the second cycle. Furthermore, the catalytic mechanism of Ir‐based SMSC is proposed based on reaction explorations and in situ co‐adsorption tests by the method of diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy, which has also been revealed by theoretical calculations. This work provides a novel insight into the design of SMSCs with great potential for application in the hydroformylation field.
Photo‐regulated synergistic catalysis of acid and basic sites in metal–organic framework
Authors: Wen Hui , Nian Yao , Tan Peng , Qi Hang‐Ou , Gu Chen , Yang Tao , Han You , Sun Lin‐Bing
Published: March 2024

Enzymes have flexible structures and can modulate the multiple catalytic sites efficiently for synergistic catalysis. Inspired by enzymes, various artificial catalysts have been designed, while controllable synergistic effects in artificial catalysts have never been reported. Here, we report the first example of photo‐regulated synergistic catalyst (PRSC) and the synergistic effects between acidic and basic sites can be regulated by light. PRSCs have acidic sites on pore walls and basic sites on pendant azobenzene groups, and photo‐regulation is achieved through azobenzene isomerization. In the cascade reaction of converting benzaldehyde dimethyl acetal (BA) to benzylidenemalononitrile (BM), the PRSC shows a change of up to 33.6% in BM yield. Mechanism exploration indicates that cis azobenzene makes the catalytic system more stable. The promoted adsorption energy of the reactant malononitrile (MN) on basic sites and the activated C atom of MN that connects to methylene groups are responsible for the tunable synergistic effects of PRSCs.
Efficient construction of multi‐stimuli responsive colloidosomes for intelligent transmembrane transport
Authors: Liu Rong‐Kun , Jia Jia , Sun Qian , Zhao Hong , Wang Jie‐Xin
Published: March 2024

The colloidosome, as a kind of Pickering microcapsule, offers a highly functionalizable approach for encapsulation, but current studies mainly focus on shells that lack real‐time modulated permeability. Herein, a scalable spray drying method was employed to fabricate temperature/near‐infrared (NIR)/magnetic multi‐stimuli responsive colloidosomes with adjustable permeability, facilitating intelligent transmembrane transport of molecules. The colloidosomes assembled with SiO2/polydopamine/poly (N‐isopropyl acrylamide) nanoparticles can be heated from 25°C to 50°C within 5 min upon NIR exposure. The permeability of shells regulated by temperature and NIR allows for real‐time remote control. Yeast cells, as an example, are encapsulated within colloidosomes. The decomposition rate of H2O2 varies with temperature (25–45°C) and NIR intensity (0.5–1 W cm−2), which can attain a more than sixfold increase in the rate constant of pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model. Furthermore, the strategy was expanded by encapsulating doxorubicin/UiO‐66 particles, highlighting its great potential in realms of multi‐stimuli responsive colloidosomes applications.
A randomized double‐blind pilot study to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of intravenous iron versus oral iron for the treatment of restless legs syndrome in patients with iron deficiency anemia
Authors: Short Vanessa , Allen Richard , Earley Christopher J. , Bahrain Huzefa , Rineer Stella , Kashi Kiumarce , Gerb Jesse , Auerbach Michael
Published: March 2024

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder that can have a profound effect on sleep and quality of life. Idiopathic RLS is associated with brain iron insufficiency despite normal peripheral iron stores. There is, however, a five‐ to six‐fold increase in prevalence of RLS in patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA). Several open‐label trials have demonstrated symptomatic improvement in RLS following treatment of IDA using oral or intravenous iron supplementation. To date, there have been no randomized double‐blind controlled trials of intravenous iron compared with oral iron for the treatment of RLS patients with IDA. In the current study, oral ferrous sulfate and ferumoxytol were compared for efficacy and speed of response for treatment of RLS occurring in patients with IDA. The planned recruitment for this study was 70 patients with RLS and IDA, to be randomly assigned 1:1 to oral or intravenous iron, using double‐blind, double‐dummy procedures. At Week 6, the primary outcomes of Clinical Global Impression—Improvement score and change from baseline in the International Restless Legs Syndrome Study Group rating scale score were assessed. Due to challenges, performing the clinical trial during the COVID‐19 pandemic, final‐week data were found missing for 30 patients. As a result, in order to maintain the prespecified statistical analysis, an additional 30 patients were recruited. Both IV and oral iron were associated with a marked improvement in RLS symptoms, with no statistically significant difference between treatment groups. No serious adverse events were observed in either treatment group.
Double blind randomized controlled trial measuring the efficacy of nebulized steroid at half dose in comparison to high volume squeeze bottle steroid irrigation in management of patients with chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Megow Anna , Bouras George , Ooi Eng H. , Vreugde Sarah , Psaltis Alkis , Wormald Peter‐John
Published: March 2024

Key points

Nebulized budesonide is effective at half dose compared to budesonide irrigation in CRS.

Nasal nebulizers provide an alternative for delivery of topical steroids to the sinuses.
Amyloid pathology and vascular risk are associated with distinct patterns of cerebral white matter hyperintensities: A multicenter study in 3132 memory clinic patients
Authors: Biesbroek J. Matthijs , Coenen Mirthe , DeCarli Charles , Fletcher Evan M. , Maillard Pauline M. ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Barkhof Frederik , Barnes Josephine , Benke Thomas , Chen Christopher P. L. H. , Dal‐Bianco Peter , Dewenter Anna , Duering Marco , Enzinger Christian , Ewers Michael , Exalto Lieza G. , Franzmeier Nicolai , Hilal Saima , Hofer Edith , Koek Huiberdina L. , Maier Andrea B. , McCreary Cheryl R. , Papma Janne M. , Paterson Ross W. , Pijnenburg Yolande A. L. , Rubinski Anna , Schmidt Reinhold , Schott Jonathan M. , Slattery Catherine F. , Smith Eric E. , Sudre Carole H. , Steketee Rebecca M. E. , Teunissen Charlotte E. , van den Berg Esther , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Venketasubramanian Narayanaswamy , Venkatraghavan Vikram , Vernooij Meike W. , Wolters Frank J. , Xin Xu , Kuijf Hugo J. , Biessels Geert Jan
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are associated with key dementia etiologies, in particular arteriolosclerosis and amyloid pathology. We aimed to identify WMH locations associated with vascular risk or cerebral amyloid‐β1‐42 (Aβ42)‐positive status.

METHODS

Individual patient data (n = 3,132; mean age 71.5 ± 9 years; 49.3% female) from 11 memory clinic cohorts were harmonized. WMH volumes in 28 regions were related to a vascular risk compound score (VRCS) and Aß42 status (based on cerebrospinal fluid or amyloid positron emission tomography), correcting for age, sex, study site, and total WMH volume.

RESULTS

VRCS was associated with WMH in anterior/superior corona radiata (B = 0.034/0.038, p < 0.001), external capsule (B = 0.052, p < 0.001), and middle cerebellar peduncle (B = 0.067, p < 0.001), and Aß42‐positive status with WMH in posterior thalamic radiation (B = 0.097, p < 0.001) and splenium (B = 0.103, p < 0.001).

DISCUSSION

Vascular risk factors and Aß42 pathology have distinct signature WMH patterns. This regional vulnerability may incite future studies into how arteriolosclerosis and Aß42 pathology affect the brain's white matter.

Highlights

Key dementia etiologies may be associated with specific patterns of white matter hyperintensities (WMH).

We related WMH locations to vascular risk and cerebral Aβ42 status in 11 memory clinic cohorts.

Aβ42 positive status was associated with posterior WMH in splenium and posterior thalamic radiation.

Vascular risk was associated with anterior and infratentorial WMH.

Amyloid pathology and vascular risk have distinct signature WMH patterns.
Adapted problem adaptation therapy for depression in mild to moderate Alzheimer's disease dementia: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Howard Robert , Cort Elizabeth , Rawlinson Charlotte , Wiegand Martin , Downey Anne , Lawrence Vanessa , Banerjee Sube , Bentham Peter , Fox Chris , Harwood Rowan , Hunter Rachel , Livingston Gill , Moniz‐Cook Esme , Panca Monica , Raczek Malgorzata , Ivenso Chineze , Russell Gregor , Thomas Alan , Wilkinson Philip , Freemantle Nicholas , Gould Rebecca
Published: March 2024

INTRODUCTION

Trials of effectiveness of treatment options for depression in dementia are an important priority.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial to assess adapted Problem Adaptation Therapy (PATH) for depression in mild/moderate dementia caused by Alzheimer's disease.

RESULTS

Three hundred thirty‐six participants with mild or moderate dementia, >7 on Cornell Scale for Depression in Dementia (CSDD), randomized to adapted PATH or treatment as usual. Mean age 77.0 years, 39.0% males, mean Mini‐Mental State Examination 21.6, mean CSDD 12.9. For primary outcome (CSDD at 6 months), no statistically significant benefit with adapted PATH on the CSDD (6 months: −0.58; 95% CI −1.71 to 0.54). The CSDD at 3 months showed a small benefit with adapted PATH (−1.38; 95% CI −2.54 to −0.21) as did the EQ‐5D (−4.97; 95% CI −9.46 to −0.48).

DISCUSSION

An eight‐session course of adapted PATH plus two booster sessions administered within NHS dementia services was not effective treatment for depression in people with mild and moderate dementia. Future studies should examine the effect of more intensive and longer‐term therapy.
Rational Lithium Salt Molecule Tuning for Fast Charging/Discharging Lithium Metal Battery
Authors: Zhou Pan , Zhou Haiyu , Xia Yingchun , Feng Qingqing , Kong Xian , Hou Wen‐hui , Ou Yu , Song Xuan , Zhou Hang‐yu , Zhang Weili , Lu Yang , Liu Fengxiang , Cao Qingbin , Liu Hao , Yan Shuaishuai , Liu Kai
Published: March 2024

The electrolytes for lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are plagued by a low Li+ transference number (T+) of conventional lithium salts and inability to form a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). Here, we synthesized a self‐folded lithium salt, lithium 2‐[2‐(2‐methoxy ethoxy)ethoxy]ethanesulfonyl(trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide (LiETFSI), and comparatively studied with its structure analogue, lithium 1,1,1‐trifluoro‐N‐[2‐[2‐(2‐methoxyethoxy)ethoxy)]ethyl]methanesulfonamide (LiFEA). The special anion chemistry imparts the following new characteristics: i) In both LiFEA and LiETFSI, the ethylene oxide moiety efficiently captures Li+, resulting in a self‐folded structure and high T+ around 0.8. ii) For LiFEA, a Li−N bond (2.069 Å) is revealed by single crystal X‐ray diffraction, indicating that the FEA anion possesses a high donor number (DN) and thus an intensive interphase “self‐cleaning” function for an ultra‐thin and compact SEI. iii) Starting from LiFEA, an electron‐withdrawing sulfone group is introduced near the N atom. The distance of Li−N is tuned from 2.069 Å in LiFEA to 4.367 Å in LiETFSI. This alteration enhances ionic separation, achieves a more balanced DN, and tunes the self‐cleaning intensity for a reinforced SEI. Consequently, the fast charging/discharging capability of LMBs is progressively improved. This rationally tuned anion chemistry reshapes the interactions among Li+, anions, and solvents, presenting new prospects for advanced LMBs.
Targeted Degradation of Cell‐Surface Proteins via Chaperone‐Mediated Autophagy by Using Peptide‐Conjugated Antibodies
Authors: Shao Jinning , Lin Xuefen , Wang Haoting , Zhao Chuhan , Yao Shao Q. , Ge Jingyan , Zeng Su , Qian Linghui
Published: March 2024

Cell‐surface proteins are important drug targets but historically have posed big challenges for the complete elimination of their functions. Herein, we report antibody–peptide conjugates (Ab‐CMAs) in which a peptide targeting chaperone‐mediated autophagy (CMA) was conjugated with commercially available monoclonal antibodies for specific cell‐surface protein degradation by taking advantage of lysosomal degradation pathways. Unique features of Ab‐CMAs, including cell‐surface receptor‐ and E3 ligase‐independent degradation, feasibility towards different cell‐surface proteins (e.g., epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)) by a simple change of the antibody, and successful tumor inhibition in vivo, make them attractive protein degraders for biomedical research and therapeutic applications. As the first example employing CMA to degrade proteins from the outside in, our findings may also shed new light on CMA, a degradation pathway typically targeting cytosolic proteins.
From Cd(SCN)2(CH4N2S)2 to Cd(SCN)2(C4H6N2)2: Controlling Sulfur Content in Thiocyanate Systems Significantly Improves the Overall Performance of UV Nonlinear Optical Materials
Authors: Kang Yuwei , Yang Can , Gou Jie , Zhu Yaolong , Zhu Qingwen , Xu Weilin , Wu Qi
Published: March 2024

Combining a strong second‐order nonlinear optical (NLO) effect (>1×KH2PO4 (KDP)), a large band gap (>4.2 eV), and a moderate birefringence in ultraviolet (UV) NLO crystals remains a formidable challenge. Herein, Cd(SCN)2(C4H6N2)2, the first example of a thiocyanate capable of realizing a phase‐matched UV NLO crystal material, is obtained by reducing the sulfur (S) content in the centrosymmetric (CS) structure of Cd(SCN)2(CH4N2S)2. Compared to the “shoulder‐to‐shoulder” one‐dimensional (1D) chain of Cd(SCN)2(CH4N2S)2, Cd(SCN)2(C4H6N2)2 has a different sawtooth 1D chain structure. Cd(SCN)2(CH4N2S)2 has second harmonic generation (SHG) inertia with a band gap of 3.90 eV and a UV cutoff edge of 342 nm, however, it possesses a large birefringence (0.35@546 nm). In contrast, the symmetry center breaking of Cd(SCN)2(C4H6N2)2 leads to remarkably strong SHG intensity (10 times that of KDP). Furthermore, it has a wide band gap (4.74 eV), short UV cutoff edge (234 nm), and moderate birefringence capable of phase matching (0.17@546 nm). This research indicates that thiocyanates are a promising class of UV NLO crystal materials, and that modulation of the sulfur content of CS thiocyanates is an effective strategy for the development of UV NLO crystals with excellent overall performances.
Asymmetric Synthesis of SCF3‐Substituted Alkylboronates by Copper‐Catalyzed Hydroboration of 1‐Trifluoromethylthioalkenes
Authors: Kojima Yuki , Nishii Yuji , Hirano Koji
Published: March 2024

A synthetic method for preparation of optically active trifluoromethylthio (SCF3) compounds by a copper‐catalyzed regio‐ and enantioselective hydroboration of 1‐trifluoromethylthioalkenes with H‐Bpin has been developed. The enantioselective hydrocupration of an in situ generated CuH species and subsequent boration reaction generate a chiral SCF3‐containing alkylboronate, of which Bpin moiety can be further transformed to deliver various optically active SCF3 molecules. Computational studies suggest that the SCF3 group successfully controls the regioselectivity in the reaction.
Heterodyne‐Detected Sum‐Frequency Generation Vibrational Spectroscopy Reveals Aqueous Molecular Structure at the Suspended Graphene/Water Interface
Authors: Wang Yongkang , Tang Fujie , Yu Xiaoqing , Ohto Tatsuhiko , Nagata Yuki , Bonn Mischa
Published: March 2024

Graphene, a transparent two‐dimensional conductive material, has brought extensive new perspectives and prospects to various aqueous technological systems, such as desalination membranes, chemical sensors, energy storage, and energy conversion devices. Yet, the molecular‐level details of graphene in contact with aqueous electrolytes, such as water orientation and hydrogen bond structure, remain elusive or controversial. Here, we employ surface‐specific heterodyne‐detected sum‐frequency generation (HD‐SFG) vibrational spectroscopy to re‐examine the water molecular structure at a freely suspended graphene/water interface. We compare the response from the air/graphene/water system to that from the air/water interface. Our results indicate that the
spectrum recorded from the air/graphene/water system arises from the topmost 1–2 water layers in contact with the graphene, with the graphene itself not generating a significant SFG response. Compared to the air/water interface response, the presence of monolayer graphene weakly affects the interfacial water. Graphene weakly affects the dangling O−H group, lowering its frequency through its interaction with the graphene sheet, and has a very small effect on the hydrogen‐bonded O−H group. Molecular dynamics simulations confirm our experimental observation. Our work provides molecular insight into the interfacial structure at a suspended graphene/water interface, relevant to various technological applications of graphene.
Sonocatalysis green synthesis of indeno[1,2‐b]indolone derivatives using CuFe2O4@CS‐SB nanocomposite as a reusable catalyst under mild conditions
Authors: Hassanpour Hannaneh , Naeimi Hossein
Published: March 2024

In this literature, the synthesis of indeno[1,2‐b]indolone from starting materials of ninhydrin, derivatives of aniline, and dimedone by using copper ferrite anchored to chitosan bearing Schiff base (CuFe2O4@CS‐SB) as a catalyst in water solvent under ultrasound irradiation was described. This catalyst was designed, fabricated, and characterized by the FT‐IR, 1H NMR, XRD, SEM, TGA, mapping scan, EDX, and BET techniques. This prepared acidic, effective heterogeneous catalyst catalyzed green synthesis of indeno‐indolone derivatives in a very short reaction times between 1 and 7 min with excellent yields between 95% and 99%. Also, the FT‐IR, 1H NMR, and melting point analyses are used to identify the synthesis of the indolones as organic products.
Binary NiCu oxide nanoparticles onto graphite as promoting nanocatalysts for ethanol electro‐oxidation process
Authors: Afify Donia G. , Hameed R. M. Abdel , Ghayad Ibrahim M.
Published: March 2024

A facile and reduced cost fabrication protocol was followed to have a series of nickel oxide nanospecies onto graphite support with introducing varied copper oxide wt.% values (NiCuO/T). The co‐precipitation of metallic hydroxide particles onto carbonaceous surfaces and their subsequent burning at 400°C were sufficient to prepare mixed transition metal oxides. Suitable analysis tools were exploited to fully characterize the obtained nanopowders using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and energy dispersive X‐ray analysis. Outstanding performances of the formed nanocatalysts for catalyzing ethanol electro‐oxidation reaction were measured especially in presence of 15 wt.% copper oxide content. The onset potential (Eonset) value of alcohol oxidation process was negatively shifted at dispersed NiO nanoparticles onto graphite after doping with copper oxide nanospecies. This promoted activity of prepared nanomaterials could be explained by their increased active sites when binary metallic oxides were incorporated. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies demonstrated much lowered resistances in alkaline solution containing ethanol molecules to ascertain the enhanced behavior of NiCuO/T nanocatalysts. Moreover, their good stability attitude encouraged the application of doped nanomaterials with copper oxide for fuel cells application.
Ligand‐field effect to harness the magnetic anisotropy in a series of mixed valence Co (III)–Co (II) dinuclear complexes
Authors: Manohar Ezhava Manu , Guizouarn Thierry , Ahmed Naushad , Herchel Radovan , Pointillart Fabrice , Das Sourav , Dey Atanu
Published: March 2024

Three mixed valence dinuclear Co (III)–Co (II)‐based complexes having general formulae of [CoIICoIII (HL2)2(L1)] [L1H = 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde (1), o‐vanillin (2), and salicylaldehyde (3)] have been synthesized successfully using Schiff base (LH4) ligand. The complexes were characterized by single‐crystal XRD, powder XRD, IR, and UV–Vis analyses. The CoII ion with elongated octahedral geometry conferred significant magnetic anisotropy with D values being 64.0(8), 71.1(7), and 52.1(3) cm−1 for 1, 2, and 3, respectively. These complexes exhibited single‐molecule magnet behavior with magnetic relaxation occurring mainly through Raman for 1 and 3 whereas direct and Raman for complex 2. The analysis of the static and dynamic magnetic properties was further supported by theoretical calculations using CASSCF/DLPNO‐NEVPT2.
Flame retarded polyurethane vitrimers containing isocyanurate rings: Synthesis and properties
Authors: Meng Fansen , Yang Yiyin , Shen Kaiwen , Tang Donglin
Published: March 2024

In this study, flame retarded polyurethane vitrimers, namely vitrimeric poly(isocyanurate urethane)s (VPICUs), were synthesized successfully by melting polycondensation simply from tris(2‐hydroxyethyl)isocyanurate and dicarbamates. By increasing the methylene number in dicarbamates from 4 to 10, the VPICUs exhibit superior mechanical performance with elongation at break increases from 20% to 350% while the tensile strength decreases from 80 to 32 MPa, and the toughness can be significantly enhanced from 9 to 90 J/cm3. With a mass fraction of isocyanurate ring at 26.6%, for VPICU10‐2.5/2, the flame retardancy is found to be the most excellent, with a UL‐94 rating at V‐0 and a LOI value at 25.9%. VPICU10 samples exhibit substantial relaxation behavior at higher temperature, and the network rearrangement activated by transesterification and transurethanization reactions offers the reprocessability without losing the properties. This work provides new insights into the construction of sustainable and high‐performance flame retarded polymer materials.
Predicting the tensile and compressive modulus of electrospun fiber mat‐reinforced hydrogels using the Halpin–Tsai equations
Authors: Beckett Laura E. , Lewis Jackson T. , Tonge Theresa K. , Korley LaShanda T. J.
Published: March 2024

The reinforcement of mechanically‐weak hydrogels to yield composites with increased stiffness, strength, or toughness is a well‐established approach. In particular, introducing electrospun nanofibers into hydrogels is a common strategy for biomedical applications, as the resulting hierarchical structure mimics biology and allows for control over fiber diameter and alignment and tuning of mechanical properties. However, further study of the link between the constituent materials and the mechanical properties of the composite is uncommon. One potential model to understand the mechanical properties of fiber‐reinforced hydrogels involves the Halpin–Tsai equations, which relate the modulus values of the fibers and hydrogel matrix and the fiber volume fraction, to the modulus of the composite. To assess the application of this model to fiber‐reinforced hydrogels, predicted values were compared with experimental values from mechanical testing of a poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) matrix reinforced with an electrospun polycaprolactone (PCL) fiber mat. Although the equations described these systems well in tension, providing a facile approach to identify a fiber volume fraction that will achieve a desired modulus, the Halpin–Tsai approach was less successful under compression. This study motivates additional investigation of the role of structural features of hydrogel composites in determining mechanical properties to enable design of materials for specific applications.
The Radon and Hilbert transforms and their applications to atmospheric waves
Authors: Mayta Víctor C. , Adames Corraliza Ángel F. , Lin Qiao‐Jun
Published: March 2024

The Radon and Hilbert transform and their applications to convectively coupled waves (CCWs) are reviewed. The Hilbert Transform is used to compute the wave envelope, whereas the Radon transform is used to estimate the phase and group velocities of CCWs. Together, they provide an objective method to understand CCW propagation. Results reveal phase speeds and group velocities for fast waves (mixed Rossby‐gravity, westward and eastward inertio‐gravity, and Kelvin) that are consistent with previous studies and with Matsuno's equatorial wave dispersion curves. However, slowly‐propagating tropical depression‐like systems and equatorial Rossby waves exhibit wave envelopes that propagate faster than the individual wave crests, which is not predicted by dry shallow water theory.
Expanding the Massachusetts Birth Defects Monitoring Program to include additional pregnancy outcomes: Programmatic efforts and impacts on case ascertainment, 2012–2020
Authors: Fothergill Amy , Liberman Rebecca F. , Nestoridi Eirini , Mai Cara T. , Yeung Lorraine F. , Higgins Cathleen , Yazdy Mahsa M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Birth defects affect 1 in 33 infants in the United States and are a leading cause of infant mortality. Birth defects surveillance is crucial for informing public health action. The Massachusetts Birth Defects Monitoring Program (MBDMP) began collecting other pregnancy losses (OPLs) in 2011, including miscarriages (<20 weeks gestation) or elective terminations (any gestational age), in addition to live births and stillbirths (≥20 weeks gestation). We describe programmatic changes for adding OPLs and their impact on prevalence estimates.

Methods

Using population‐based, statewide, data from the MBDMP (2012–2020), we assessed prevalence per 10,000 live births and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with and without OPLs overall and for specific birth defects by time period, maternal age, and race/ethnicity.

Results

Including OPLs required amending a state statute and promulgating regulations, new data sources, and additional data processing, cleaning, and verification. Overall prevalence with OPLs increased from 257.4 (95% CI: 253.5–261.4) to 333.9 (95% CI: 329.4–338.4) per 10,000; increases were observed in all time periods, age, and race/ethnicity groups. After including OPLs, the prevalence increased for neural tube defects [3.2 (2.7–3.6) to 8.3 (7.6–9.0)], and trisomies 13 [0.5 (0.3–0.7) to 4.1 (3.6–4.6)], 18 [1.5 (1.2–1.9) to 8.2 (7.5–8.9)], and 21 [12.3 (11.4–13.2) to 28.9 (27.6–30.2)]. Cardiovascular defects increased slightly, while prevalence of eye/ear, respiratory, and gastrointestinal defects remained similar.

Conclusions

Adding OPLs required substantial programmatic efforts and resulted in more complete case ascertainment, particularly for certain birth defects. More complete case ascertainment will allow for improved research, screening, and resource allocation.
High yield sterile filtration process for highly concentrated lentiviral vectors
Authors: Vogel Jessica E. , Terrao Monica , Schwingal Sarah , Kapitza Laura , Brigulla Daniel , Pirzas Vicky , Laux Holger , Brandt Tobias
Published: March 2024

The development and manufacture of biopharmaceuticals are subject to strict regulations that specify the required minimum quality of the products. A key measure to meet these quality requirements is the integration of a sterile filtration step into the commercial manufacturing process. Whereas common procedures for most biologics exist, this is challenging for lentiviral vector (LVV) production for ex vivo gene therapy. LVVs nominal size is more than half the pore size (0.2 µm) of filters used for sterile filtration. Hence, highly concentrated virus solutions are prone to filter clogging if aggregation of viruses occurs or impurities attach to the viruses. Several filters were screened aiming to identify those which allow filtering highly concentrated stocks of LVVs of up to 1E + 9 transducing units mL−1, which corresponds to 4.5E + 12 particles mL−1. In addition, the effect of endonuclease treatment upstream of the purification process on filter performance was studied. In summary, three suitable filters were identified in a small‐scale study (<15 mL) with virus yields >80% and the process was successfully scaled‐up to a final scale of 100 mL LVV stock solution.
Evaluation of a novel vaginal cells self‐sampling device for human papillomavirus testing in cervical cancer screening: A clinical trial assessing reliability and acceptability
Authors: Yang Chung‐Yao , Chang Ting‐Chang , Chou Hung‐Hsueh , Chao Angel , Hsu Shih‐Tien , Shih Yu‐Hsiang , Huang Huei‐Jean , Lin Cheng‐Tao , Chen Min‐Yu , Sun Lou , Huang Kuan‐Gen , Wu Kai‐Yun , Hsieh Wu‐Chiao , Huang Yi‐Ting , Chen Liang‐Hsuan , Lu Chien‐Hsing , Lin Hao , Cheng Chao‐Min
Published: March 2024

Cervical cancer is a significant public health concern, particularly in low‐ and middle‐income countries where resources for prevention and treatment are limited. Routine screening, such as the Papanicolaou test (Pap smears) and human papillomavirus (HPV) testing, plays a crucial role in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer. However, the participation rate in cervical cancer screening programs remains below optimal levels due to various factors. This study aimed to evaluate the reliability and acceptability of the HygeiaTouch Self Sampling Kit for Women in collecting vaginal samples for HPV typing, comparing the results with samples collected by physicians. The study included 1210 women aged 21–65 from three medical centers in Taiwan. The findings indicated that the self‐sampling kit was as effective as physician‐collected specimens in terms of obtaining valid samples and identifying HPV. The agreement between the two methods was 88%, with a κ value of 0.75. Furthermore, the study assessed the mechanical characteristics of the self‐sampling applicator through tensile, bending, and torque tests, and determined that it was safe for intravaginal use. Additionally, the study evaluated the safety and satisfaction of self‐sampling and found a low rate of adverse events (0.7%) and high levels of satisfaction (over 90%) among participants. Overall, we demonstrated that the HygeiaTouch Self Sampling Kit for Women is a reliable and acceptable device for HPV testing and cervical screening, providing a convenient, safe, and effective alternative for women.
Urban relatives ameliorate survival disparities for genitourinary cancer in rural patients
Authors: Choudry Mouneeb , Dindinger‐Hill Kassandra , Ambrose Jacob , Horns Joshua , Vehawn Jeffrey , Gill Hailie , Murray Nicole Z. , Hunt Trevor C. , Martin Christopher , Haaland Benjamin , Chipman Jonathan , Hanson Heidi A. , O'Neil Brock B.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Patients living in rural areas have worse cancer‐specific outcomes. This study examines the effect of family‐based social capital on genitourinary cancer survival. We hypothesized that rural patients with urban relatives have improved survival relative to rural patients without urban family.

Methods

We examined rural and urban based Utah individuals diagnosed with genitourinary cancers between 1968 and 2018. Familial networks were determined using the Utah Population Database. Patients and relatives were classified as rural or urban based on 2010 rural–urban commuting area codes. Overall survival was analyzed using Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

We identified 24,746 patients with genitourinary cancer with a median follow‐up of 8.72 years. Rural cancer patients without an urban relative had the worst outcomes with cancer‐specific survival hazard ratios (HRs) at 5 and 10 years of 1.33 (95% CI 1.10–1.62) and 1.46 (95% CI 1.24–1.73), respectively relative to urban patients. Rural patients with urban first‐degree relatives had improved survival with 5‐ and 10‐year survival HRs of 1.21 (95% CI 1.06–1.40) and 1.16 (95% CI 1.03–1.31), respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest rural patients who have been diagnosed with a genitourinary cancer have improved survival when having relatives in urban centers relative to rural patients without urban relatives. Further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms through which having an urban family member contributes to improved cancer outcomes for rural patients. Better characterization of this affect may help inform policies to reduce urban–rural cancer disparities.