bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Soft Quasi‐Organism Equipped with Sensor‐Driven Integrated Tentacles
Authors: Liu Chang , Luo Jinan , Liu Haidong , Fu Junxin , Liu Houfang , Tang Hao , Deng Zhikang , Wu Jingzhi , Li Yuanfang , Liu Chuting , Peng Shiqi , Hu Juxin , Ren Tian‐Ling , Zhou Jianhua , Qiao Yancong
Published: June 2024

Integration of soft electronic system components is critical to create a closed‐loop system that seamlessly integrates sensing, driving, processing, and autonomous control capabilities. However, the existence of these components, particularly sensors and actuators, in isolated or discrete forms complicates the endeavor to achieve seamless interface matching and in situ integration, no more than the autonomic system. Here, an intelligent soft quasi‐organism (SQO) equipped with sensor‐driven integrated tentacles is demonstrated, featuring real‐time state recognition and autonomous object recognition inspired by the sea anemones. By employing a heterogeneous mechanisms homotopic integration (HMHI) strategy, the tentacles of the SQO possess the unique ability to simultaneously perceive state changes and flexibly drive motions, utilizing the same material and structure. The sea anemone‐shaped SQO exhibits real‐time autonomous state identification capabilities through the integration of machine learning and customized circuits, attaining 100% recognition accuracy across sixteen states. With a neuromuscular system that facilitates active autonomous perception, the anemone‐shaped SQO can recognize and intelligently grasp static objects with an accuracy of 80.7%, surpassing that of a human hand (74.7%). The SQO provides a promising approach for realizing artificial neuromuscular systems, with great potential for applications in crucial areas such as intelligent soft robotics and in vivo therapy.
A Dual Enhancing Strategy of Novel Nanovaccine Based on TIM3 Silencing Nanoadjuvants and Desialylated Cancer Cell Membrane Antigens for Personalized Vaccination Immunotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Li Kaiming , Li Xiaolin , Wu Jie , Wu Haisi , Wu Min , Zhou Yupeng , Lin Ya , Zou Yifan , Jiang Xiqun , Xu Huae
Published: June 2024

Cancer vaccines represent a promising form of immunotherapy employed in the treatment of cancer. However, their efficiency in eliciting immune responses is limited, and satisfactory results have yet to be achieved. Optimizing adjuvants and antigens is an important approach to promoting the anti‐tumor efficacy of cancer vaccines. Here, a novel nanoadjuvant (LNP/siRNA) designed to silence T‐cell immunoglobulin and mucin‐domain containing‐3 (TIM3) and activate Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) is presented. The LNP/siRNA demonstrates significant potential in promoting dendritic cell (DC) maturation and enhancing the anti‐tumor response. Furthermore, desialylated cancer cell membrane is utilized as antigens, providing a variety of tumor antigens for DCs and enhancing their function. Additionally, they are integrated to create a core‐shell structured nanovaccine (dClip‐LNP/siRNA) through coextrusion, which collectively enhances the cross‐presentation ability of DCs, thus achieving a dual enhancement strategy. The dClip‐LNP/siRNA significantly silences TIM3 expression in DCs and promotes antigen presentation by DCs. Besides, dClip‐LNP/siRNA significantly promotes the activation of T cells in lymph nodes and induces robust and durable anti‐tumor immunity in tumor sites to eliminate established B16‐OVA tumors, prevent tumor occurrence, and suppress tumor lung metastasis. The dClip‐LNP/siRNA is also suitable for combination with adoptive OT‐I cell therapy to enhance cancer immunotherapy. The dClip‐LNP/siRNA represents a robust vaccine platform for personalized cancer immunotherapy.
Surface Engineering for Endothelium‐Mimicking Functions to Combat Infection and Thrombosis in Extracorporeal Life Support Technologies
Authors: Ashcraft Morgan , Garren Mark , Lautner‐Csorba Orsolya , Pinon Vicente , Wu Yi , Crowley Dagney , Hill Joseph , Morales Yeniselis , Bartlett Robert , Brisbois Elizabeth J. , Handa Hitesh
Published: June 2024

Blood‐contacting medical devices routinely fail from the cascading effects of biofouling toward infection and thrombosis. Nitric oxide (NO) is an integral part of endothelial homeostasis, maintaining platelet quiescence and facilitating oxidative/nitrosative stress against pathogens. Recently, it is shown that the surface evolution of NO can mediate cell‐surface interactions. However, this technique alone cannot prevent the biofouling inherent in device failure with dynamic blood‐contacting applications. This work proposes an endothelium‐mimicking surface design pairing controlled NO release with an inherently antifouling polyethylene glycol interface (NO+PEG). This simple, robust, and scalable platform develops surface‐localized NO availability with surface hydration, leading to a significant reduction in protein adsorption as well as bacteria/platelet adhesion. Further in vivo thrombogenicity studies show a decrease in thrombus formation on NO+PEG interfaces, with preservation of circulating platelet and white blood cell counts, maintenance of activated clotting time, and reduced coagulation cascade activation. It is anticipated that this bio‐inspired surface design will enable a facile alternative to existing surface technologies to address clinical manifestations of infection and thrombosis in dynamic blood‐contacting environments.
Toward Functionality and Deactivation of Metal‐Single‐Atom in Heterogeneous Photocatalysts
Authors: Cheng Lei , Wu Qiaolin , Sun Hanjun , Tang Yawen , Xiang Quanjun
Published: June 2024

Single‐atom heterogeneous catalysts (SAHCs) provide an enticing platform for understanding catalyst structure–property–performance relationships. The 100% atom utilization and adjustable local coordination configurations make it easy to probe reaction mechanisms at the atomic level. However, the progressive deactivation of metal‐single‐atom (MSA) with high surface energy leads to frequent limitations on their commercial viability. This review focuses on the atomistic‐sensitive reactivity and atomistic‐progressive deactivation of MSA to provide a unifying framework for specific functionality and potential deactivation drivers of MSA, thereby bridging function, purpose‐modification structure–performance insights with the atomistic‐progressive deactivation for sustainable structure–property–performance accessibility. The dominant functionalization of atomically precise MSA acting on properties and reactivity encompassing precise photocatalytic reactions is first systematically explored. Afterward, a detailed analysis of various deactivation modes of MSA and strategies to enhance their durability is presented, providing valuable insights into the design of SAHCs with deactivation‐resistant stability. Finally, the remaining challenges and future perspectives of SAHCs toward industrialization, anticipating shedding some light on the next stage of atom‐economic chemical/energy transformations are presented.
Adaptive Scalpel Scanning Probe Microscopy for Enhanced Volumetric Sensing in Tomographic Analysis
Authors: Laskar Md Ashiqur Rahman , Leonetti Giuseppe , Milano Gianluca , Novotný Ondřej , Neuman Jan , Tongay Sefaattin , Celano Umberto
Published: June 2024

Controlling nanoscale tip‐induced material removal is crucial for achieving atomic‐level precision in tomographic sensing with atomic force microscopy (AFM). While advances have enabled volumetric probing of conductive features with nanometer accuracy in solid‐state devices, materials, and photovoltaics, limitations in spatial resolution and volumetric sensitivity persist. This work identifies and addresses in‐plane and vertical tip‐sample junction leakage as sources of parasitic contrast in tomographic AFM, hindering real‐space 3D reconstructions. Novel strategies are proposed to overcome these limitations. First, the contrast mechanisms analyzing nanosized conductive features are explored when confining current collection purely to in‐plane transport, thus allowing reconstruction with a reduction in the overestimation of the lateral dimensions. Furthermore, an adaptive tip‐sample biasing scheme is demonstrated for the mitigation of a class of artefacts induced by the high electric field inside the thin oxide when volumetrically reduced. This significantly enhances vertical sensitivity by approaching the intrinsic limits set by quantum tunneling processes, allowing detailed depth analysis in thin dielectrics. The effectiveness of these methods is showcased in tomographic reconstructions of conductive filaments in valence change memory, highlighting the potential for application in nanoelectronics devices and bulk materials and unlocking new limits for tomographic AFM.
Ultra‐Broadband Near‐Infrared Luminescence from a Vanadium‐Activated Phosphate Glass
Authors: Wang Weirong , Chen Zhi , Yu Guanliang , Zhang Yeming , Jiang Chun , Qiu Jianrong
Published: June 2024

Broadband near‐infrared (NIR) emitting materials have gained considerable attention for their applications in lighting, displays, sensing, bio‐imaging, and optical amplification. Recently, numerous excellent broadband NIR emitting materials are developed by introducing Cr3+, Bi+, or Ni2+ ions to various hosts. However, there is a notable absence of reports on ultra‐broadband NIR emitters spanning the entire telecommunication window as well as the NIR‐I (700–1000 nm) and NIR‐II (1000–1700 nm) biological windows activated by vanadium ions. Herein, the study presents, for the first time to the best of the knowledge, ultra‐broadband NIR emission ranging from 850 to 1600 nm (peaking at ≈1000 nm) at room temperature in vanadium‐doped phosphate glass. Detailed spectra and microscopic structure analysis reveal that two V3+‐emitting centers predominantly contribute to the ultra‐broadband emission, corresponding to 3T2(3F)→3A2(3F) spin‐allowed and 3T2(3F)→1E(1D) spin‐forbidden electron transitions of tetrahedrally coordinated V3+ ions. Notably, the tunability of NIR emission peak is demonstrated by adjusting the local glass structure or the vanadium doping content. Moreover, glass‐converted light‐emitting diodes (gc‐LEDs) are fabricated from vanadium‐doped glass, and the potential applications are demonstrated. The work opens new avenues for the design and fabrication of broadband NIR‐emitting materials and opto‐electronic devices.
Fiber Optic Devices for Diagnostics and Therapy in Photomedicine
Authors: Hu Yubing , Minzioni Paolo , Hui Jie , Yun Seok‐Hyun , Yetisen Ali K.
Published: June 2024

Photonic technologies have made enormous impacts on modern medicine, advancing disease diagnostics and treatments as well as health monitoring. A long‐standing challenge in the use of light and its widespread effects in photomedicine is the finite penetration of light in tissues. However, judiciously engineered optical fibers helped overcome this challenge and advance light delivery to deep tissues with spatial precision and desired accessibility. In recent years, the development of photonic technologies including optical biomaterials, fiber functionalization, and biomedical device innovations has greatly expanded the scope of light‐based healthcare. Here, the fundamentals and materials of fiber optics to endow themselves with biocompatibility, flexibility, and diverse functionalities required for long‐term implantation are overviewed. The design strategies of lab‐on‐fiber techniques, operation requirements to construct fiber optic sensors, and their health monitoring applications as wearable and implantable devices are presented. The use of fiber optics in major light‐based therapeutic modalities including optogenetics, photodynamic therapy, photobiomodulation, photochemical cross–linking, and photothermal therapy is illustrated to enhance their effectiveness, specificity, and feasibility. In short, a comprehensive review is provided on the fiber optic techniques and the latest photonic devices, which are envisioned to evolve photomedicine in clinical and point‐of‐care practices.
Ultra Broad‐Band Excitable Organic–Inorganic Copper(I) Halides: Large‐Scale Synthesis, Outstanding Stability, and Highly Efficient White Light‐Emitting Diodes Application
Authors: Xie Lingling , Liu Zheng , Yang Henan , Chen Kunlin , Lv Ning , Pi Huihui , Chen Xiyao , Li Xitao , Liu Zhe , Li Siyi , Wang Zhenguang , Wang Yongtian , Chen Bingkun
Published: June 2024

Organic–inorganic copper(I) halides (OICHs) have recently attracted great attentions for their unique optoelectronic properties. However, most of them have poor stability and narrow excitation in UV region, which seriously hinder their applications in efficient white light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs). Herein, 0D (C19H18P)2Cu4I6 with super broad‐band excitation (300–500 nm) and yellow emission with the absolute photoluminescence quantum yield of 87.4% is synthesized in a quantity of gram scale. Specifically, (C19H18P)2Cu4I6 possesses exceptional thermal‐, photo‐, air‐stability, and can maintain efficient emission even if soaked in water, ethyl acetate, and isopropanol over 30 days. WLEDs with remarkable color stability under various driven currents are fabricated using 450, 400, 365, and 310 nm LED chips. The ideal WLEDs based on single (C19H18P)2Cu4I6 by 450 nm LED chip presents high color rendering index of 86.7, and outstanding luminous efficiency of 90 lm W−1. To the best of the knowledge, this is the highest value that is achieved based on single‐component OICHs using blue light chip. This work not only promotes the prospect of OICHs in WLEDs but also significantly broadens their application in special lighting fields, such as underwater illumination.
Polarization‐Sensitive Artificial Optoelectronic Synapse Based on Anisotropic β‐Ga2O3 Single Crystal for Neuromorphic Vision Systems and Information Encryption
Authors: Wang Zhenyang , Zhang Guang , Zhang Xinjiang , Wu Chao , Xia Zihui , Hu Haizheng , Wu Fengmin , Guo Daoyou , Wang Shunli
Published: June 2024

A novel polarization‐sensitive artificial optoelectronic synapse based on β‐Ga2O3 single‐crystal is proposed in this work, featuring reconfigurable anisotropic vision. A series of polarization‐sensitive synaptic activities and polarization‐sensitive image recognition functions are successfully simulated using this device. The intriguing performance of this device, stems from the crystal anisotropy in β‐Ga2O3, which is confirmed through polarization Raman measurements and first‐principles theoretical calculations. Furthermore, a comprehensive analysis of the persistent photoelectric properties of the device unveils that the adaptability of the optoelectronic synapse device stems from the ionization and dissociation of oxygen vacancies. Ultimately, the device is utilized in the fields of image recognition and information encryption. A four‐layer artificial neural network with two hidden layers is constructed for recognizing handwritten digits. After training, the recognition accuracy reaches over 91.5% for both unpolarized and polarized light. Information encryption is achieved by controlling polarization states. The device enables data generation and encryption to be conducted on the same platform, mitigating exposure risks during transmission and significantly enhancing data security and confidentiality. This work presents new opportunities for future applications of polarization‐based perception systems.
Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Selective C−H Alkylation and Alkenylation of 1,2,3‐Benzotriazinones with Maleimides
Authors: Xiao Lin , Shen Dan‐Ting , Zou Wen‐Xuan , Song Jia‐Lin , Wei Jiaohang , Liu Xiang , Zhang Shang‐Shi , Zhang Luyong
Published: June 2024

Herein, we describe a reaction conditions‐based switchable Rh(III)‐catalyzed C−H alkylation and alkenylation of 1,2,3‐benzotriazinones with maleimides, where the triazinone serves as a directing group rather than its traditional role denitrogenative precursor. This strategy enables the selective synthesis of diverse 3‐arylated succinimides and 3‐arylated maleimides in up to 99% yield and a broad substrate scope (48 examples). Furthermore, for the first time, a tandem C−H alkylation and denitrogenative coupling of 1,2,3‐benzotriazinones has been achieved by slightly modifying the reaction conditions. Additionally, gram‐scale reactions and product derivatizations were conducted to demonstrate the synthetic utility.
Electroacupuncture Promotes Liver Regeneration by Activating DMV Acetylcholinergic Neurons‐Vagus‐Macrophage Axis in 70% Partial Hepatectomy of Mice
Authors: Yang Liu , Zhou Yanyu , Huang Zhaoshuai , Li Wenxuan , Lin Jiacheng , Huang Weifan , Sang Yali , Wang Fang , Sun Xuehua , Song Jiangang , Wu Hailong , Kong Xiaoni
Published: June 2024

Lack of liver regenerative capacity is the primary cause of hepatic failure and even mortality in patients undergoing hepatectomy, with no effective intervention strategies currently available. Therefore, identifying efficacious interventions to enhance liver regeneration is pivotal for optimizing clinical outcomes. Recent studies have demonstrated that vagotomy exerts an inhibitory effect on liver regeneration following partial hepatectomy, thereby substantiating the pivotal role played by the vagus nerve in the process of liver regeneration. In recent years, electroacupuncture (EA) has emerged as a non‐invasive technique for stimulating the vagus nerve. However, EA on hepatic regeneration remains uncertain. In this study, a 70% partial hepatectomy (PH) mouse model is utilized to investigate the effects of EA on acute liver regeneration and elucidate its underlying molecular mechanisms. It is observed that EA at ST36 acutely activated cholinergic neurons in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus nerve (DMV), resulting in increased release of acetylcholine from hepatic vagal nerve endings and subsequent activation of IL‐6 signaling in liver macrophages. Ultimately, these events promoted hepatocyte proliferation and facilitated liver regeneration. These findings provide insights into the fundamental brain‐liver axis mechanism through which EA promotes liver regeneration, offering a novel therapeutic approach for post‐hepatectomy liver regeneration disorders.
Viral Mimicking Polyplexes as Hierarchical Unpacking Vectors for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment
Authors: Zhu Haofang , Huang Danqing , Wang Jinglin , Zhao Yuanjin , Sun Lingyun
Published: June 2024

Nano‐delivery systems hold great promise for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Current research efforts are primarily focused on enhancing their targeting capabilities and efficacy. Here, this study proposes a novel viral‐mimicking ternary polyplexes system for the controlled delivery of the anti‐inflammatory drug Cyclosporin A (CsA) to effectively treat RA. The ternary polyplexes consist of a nanogel core loaded with CsA and a hyaluronic acid shell, which facilitates CD44‐mediated targeting. By mimicking the Trojan Horse strategy employed by viruses, these polyplexes undergo a stepwise process of deshielding and disintegration within the inflamed joints. This process leads to the release of CsA within the cells and the scavenging of pathogenic factors. This study demonstrates that these viral‐mimicking ternary polyplexes exhibit rapid targeting, high accumulation, and prolonged persistence in the joints of RA mice. As a result, they effectively reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms. These results highlight the potential of viral‐mimicking ternary polyplexes as a promising therapeutic approach for the targeted and programmed delivery of drugs to treat not only RA but also other autoimmune diseases.
Light‐Operated Transient Unilateral Adhesive Hydrogel for Comprehensive Prevention of Postoperative Adhesions
Authors: Cui Furong , Shen Shihong , Ma Xiaoxuan , Fan Daidi
Published: June 2024

Dislocation of anti‐adhesion materials, non‐specific tissue adhesion, and the induction of secondary fibrinolysis disorders are the main challenges faced by postoperative anti‐adhesion materials. Herein, a self‐leveling transient unilateral adhesive hydrogel is custom‐designed to conquer these challenges with a theoretically calculated and dual‐step tailored gellan gum (GG) as the sole agent. First, the maximum gelation temperature of GG is lowered from 42–25 °C through controlled perturbation of intra‐ and inter‐molecular hydrogen bonds, which is achieved by employing the methacrylic anhydride as a “hydrogen bond's perturbator” to form methacrylate GG (MeGG). Second, the “self‐leveling” injectability and wound shape adaptably are endowed by the formation of borate‐diol complexed MeGG (BMeGG). Finally, the transient unilateral tissue‐adhesive hydrogel (BMeGG‐H) barrier is prepared through photo‐controlled cross‐linking of reactive alkenyl groups. This degradable hydrogel demonstrates favorable rheological properties, light‐controlled unilateral adhesion properties, biocompatibility, anti‐fibrin adhesion, and anti‐cell adhesion properties in vitro. Comprehensive regulation of the fibrinolysis balance toward non‐adhesion is conformed in a rat model after intra‐abdominal surgery via anti‐autoinflammatory response, intestinal wall integrity repair, and Tissue plasminogen activator (t‐PA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 (PAI‐1) balance adjustment. Notably, the 14th day anti‐adhesion effective rate is 100%, indicating its significant potential in clinical applications for postoperative anti‐adhesion.
Stimulus‐Responsive Gas Marbles as an Amphibious Carrier for Gaseous Materials
Authors: Yasui Takanori , Fameau Anne‐Laure , Park Hyoungwon , Pham Thu Thao , Pechmann Sabrina , Christiansen Silke , Yusa Shin‐ichi , Hirai Tomoyasu , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Fujii Syuji
Published: June 2024

Gas marbles are a new family of particle‐stabilized soft dispersed system with a soap bubble‐like air‐in‐water‐in‐air structure. Herein, stimulus‐responsive character is successfully introduced to a gas marble system for the first time using polymer particles carrying a poly(tertiary amine methacrylate) (pKa ≈7) steric stabilizer on their surfaces as a particulate stabilizer. The gas marbles exhibited long‐term stability when transferred onto the planar surface of liquid water, provided that the solution pH of the subphase is basic and neutral. In contrast, the use of acidic solutions led to immediate disintegration of the gas marbles, resulting in release of the inner gas. The critical minimum solution pH required for long‐term gas marble stability correlates closely with the known pKa value for the poly(tertiary amine methacrylate) stabilizer. It also demonstrates amphibious motions of the gas marbles.
Occurrence of mosaic Down syndrome and prevalence of co‐occurring conditions in Medicaid enrolled adults, 2016–2019
Authors: Rubenstein Eric , Tewolde Salina , Skotko Brian G. , Michals Amy , Fortea Juan
Published: June 2024

Background

Mosaic Down syndrome is a triplication of chromosome 21 in some but not all cells. Little is known about the epidemiology of mosaic Down syndrome. We described prevalence of mosaic Down syndrome and the co‐occurrence of common chronic conditions in 94,533 Medicaid enrolled adults with any Down syndrome enrolled from 2016 to 2019.

Methods

We identified mosaic Down syndrome using the International Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, tenth edition code for mosaic Down syndrome and compared to those with nonmosaic Down syndrome codes. We identified chronic conditions using established algorithms and compared prevalence by mosaicism.

Results

In total, 1966 (2.08%) had claims for mosaic Down syndrome. Mosaicism did not differ by sex or race/ethnicity with similar age distributions. Individuals with mosaicism were more likely to present with autism (13.9% vs. 9.6%) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (17.7% vs. 14.0%) compared to individuals without mosaicism. In total, 22.3% of those with mosaic Down syndrome and 21.5% of those without mosaicism had claims for Alzheimer's dementia (Prevalence difference: 0.8; 95% Confidence interval: −1.0, 2.8). The mosaic group had 1.19 times the hazard of Alzheimer's dementia compared to the nonmosaic group (95% CI: 1.0, 1.3).

Discussion

Mosaicism may be associated with a higher susceptibility to certain neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's dementia. Our findings challenge previous assumptions about its protective effects in Down syndrome. Further research is necessary to explore these associations in greater depth.
Piezofluorochromism in Covalent Organic Frameworks: Pressure‐Induced Emission Enhancement and Blue‐Shifted Emission
Authors: Fang Jing , Yu Xihan , Liu Yaozu , Yusran Yusran , Wang Yujie , Valtchev Valentin , Qiu Shilun , Zou Bo , Fang Qianrong
Published: June 2024

Achieving enhanced or blue‐shifted emission from piezochromic materials remains a major challenge. Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are promising candidates for the development of piezochromic materials owing to their dynamic structures and adjustable optical properties, where the emission behaviors are not solely determined by the functional groups, but are also greatly influenced by the specific geometric arrangement. Nevertheless, this area remains relatively understudied. In this study, a successful synthesis of a series of bicarbazole‐based COFs with varying topologies, dimensions, and linkages was conducted, followed by an investigation of their structural and emission properties under hydrostatic pressure generated by a diamond anvil cell. Consequently, these COFs exhibited distinct piezochromic behaviors, particularly a remarkable pressure‐induced emission enhancement (PIEE) phenomenon with a 16‐fold increase in fluorescence intensity from three‐dimensional COFs, surpassing the performance of CPMs and most organic small molecules with PIEE behavior. On the contrary, three two‐dimensional COFs with flexible structures exhibited rare blue‐shifted emission, whereas the variants with rigid and conjugated structures showed common red‐shifted and reduced emission. Mechanism research further revealed that these different piezochromic behaviors were primarily determined by interlayer distance and interaction. This study represents the first systematic exploration of the structures and emission properties of COFs through pressure‐treated engineering and provides a new perspective on the design of piezochromic materials.
Copper‐Catalyzed Regiodivergent Asymmetric Difunctionalization of Terminal Alkynes
Authors: Wang Simin , Chen Kexin , Niu Junbo , Guo Xiaobing , Yuan Xiuping , Yin Jianjun , Zhu Bo , Shi Dazhen , Guan Wei , Xiong Tao , Zhang Qian
Published: June 2024

We herein describe the first example of ligand‐controlled, copper‐catalyzed regiodivergent asymmetric difunctionalization of terminal alkynes through a cascade hydroboration and hydroallylation process. The catalytic system, consisting of (R)‐DTBM‐Segphos and CuBr, could efficiently achieve asymmetric 1,1‐difunctionalization of aryl terminal alkynes, while ligand switching to (S,S)‐Ph‐BPE could result in asymmetric 1,2‐difunctionalization exclusively. In addition, alkyl substituted terminal alkynes, especially industrially relevant acetylene and propyne, were also valid feedstocks for asymmetric 1,1‐difunctionalization. This protocol is characterized by good functional group tolerance, a broad scope of substrates (>150 examples), and mild reaction conditions. We also showcase the value of this method in the late‐stage functionalization of complicated bioactive molecules and simplifying the synthetic routes toward the key intermediacy of natural product (bruguierol A). Mechanistic studies combined with DFT calculations provide insight into the mechanism and origins of this ligand‐controlled regio‐ and stereoselectivity.
Artificial Mitochondria Nanoarchitectonics via a Supramolecular Assembled Microreactor Covered by ATP Synthase
Authors: Xu Yang , Yu Fanchen , Jia Yi , Xu Xia , Li Junbai
Published: June 2024

Abiotic stress tends to induce oxidative damage to enzymes and organelles that in turns hampers the phosphorylation process and decreases the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) productivity. Artificial assemblies can alleviate abiotic stress and simultaneously provide nutrients to diminish the oxidative damage. Here, we have integrated natural acid phosphatase (ACP) and ATP synthase with plasmonic Au clusters in a biomimetic microreactor. ACP immobilized on the Au clusters is harnessed to generate proton influx to drive ATP synthase and concurrently supply phosphate to improve phosphorus availability to combat phosphorus‐deficiency stress. In tandem with the reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and the photothermal functionality of Au clusters, such an assembled microreactor exhibits an improved abiotic stress tolerance and achieves plasmon‐accelerated ATP synthesis. This innovative approach offers an effective route to enhance the stress resistance of ATP synthase‐based energy‐generating systems, opening an exciting potential of these systems for biomimicking applications.
Experimental and numerical investigations on formation mechanisms of hollow structures in overflow water‐assisted injection‐molded parts of short‐glass‐fiber‐reinforced polypropylene
Authors: Jiang Qingsong , Zhang Wei , Wan Zhihui , Zhou Haiying , Jiang Shiyu , Nie Huarong
Published: June 2024

In water‐assisted injection molding processes, it is crucial to understand the mechanisms governing the formation of hollow structures and identify the key factors influencing their morphology and dimensional accuracy. This work combined experimental analysis and numerical simulation to investigate the influence of different mold cavities and main processing parameters on hollow structures in overflow water‐assisted injection molded parts of short‐glass‐fiber‐reinforced polypropylene, that is, hollow shape and hollow ratio. The results show that the hollow shape and hollow ratio depended not only on the cross‐sectional location but also on the cross‐sectional shape of the mold cavity. For the circular parts, the hollow shape resembled the cross‐sectional shape of the mold cavity, with a relatively small and uniform hollow ratio across cross‐sectional locations. For the noncircular parts, the hollow shape varied considerably with increasing distance from the water inlet. Moreover, the results also show that except for the influence of water‐injection delay time on the uniformity of the hollow ratio, higher melt temperature (250°C), shorter water‐injection delay time (0 s), and higher water pressure (10 MPa) contributed to the hollow shape being closer to the cross‐sectional shape of mold cavities and made hollow ratios relatively larger and more uniform.
Association of Cardiovascular Outcomes With Low‐Dose Glucocorticoid Prescription in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Coburn Brian W. , Baker Joshua F. , Hsu Jesse Y. , Wu Qufei , Xie Fenglong , Curtis Jeffrey R. , George Michael D.
Published: June 2024

Objective

Many guidelines recommend limiting glucocorticoids in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but 40% of patients remain on glucocorticoids long term. We evaluated the cardiovascular risk of long‐term glucocorticoid prescription by studying patients on stable disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs).

Methods

Using two claims databases, we identified patients with RA on stable DMARD therapy for >180 days. Proportional hazards models with inverse‐probability weights and clustering to account for multiple observations were used to estimate the effect of glucocorticoid dose on composite cardiovascular outcomes (stroke or myocardial infarction [MI]).

Results

There were 135,583 patients in Medicare and 39,272 in Optum's de‐identified Clinformatics Data Mart (CDM) database. Medicare and CDM patients had an incidence of 1.3 and 0.8 composite cardiovascular outcomes per 100 person‐years, respectively. In the older, comorbid Medicare cohort, glucocorticoids were associated with a dose‐dependent increase in composite cardiovascular outcomes in adjusted models with predicted one‐year incidence of 1.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2%–1.6%) for ≤5 mg, 1.6% (95% CI 1.4%–1.9%) for >5 to 10 mg, and 1.8% (95% CI 1.2%–2.5%) for >10 mg versus 1.1% (95% CI 1.1%–1.2%) among patients not receiving glucocorticoids. There was no significant association among the CDM cohort. However, in the subgroup of younger patients with RA and higher cardiovascular risk, glucocorticoids were associated with a dose‐dependent increase in composite cardiovascular outcomes.

Conclusion

Among older patients with more comorbidities and younger patients with higher cardiovascular risk with RA on stable DMARD therapy, glucocorticoids were associated with a dose‐dependent increased risk of MI and stroke, even at doses ≤5 mg/day. By contrast, no association was noted among younger, healthier patients with RA.

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Cooperative output regulation of heterogeneous multi‐agent systems under false data injection attacks
Authors: Geng Yanru , Zhao Zhiyun
Published: June 2024

This paper studies the cooperative output regulation problem for heterogeneous multi‐agent systems (MASs) subject to false data injection (FDI) attacks, which means the malicious cyber‐attackers may inject false data into the communication topology randomly. To ensure that each follower agent can track the leader agent accurately, we construct both an observer and a control law for each follower agent. Since the FDI attacks may exist in the communication network, a filter with an adaptive compensator, which can estimate attack signals dynamically, is equipped for each observer, such that the filter can neutralize attacks when malicious attackers launch attacks. Therefore, the cooperative output regulation can be achieved under the control law based on the observer no matter whether there exist attacks or not. Finally, a numerical example is provided for validating the theoretical results.
Balance and motor skills differences between children and teenagers with autism spectrum disorder and neurotypically developing
Authors: Martín‐Díaz Paloma , Cuesta‐Gómez Alicia , Fernádez‐González Pilar , Carratlá‐Tejada María
Published: June 2024

This study examined the differences between children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and neurotypically developing (NTD) in terms of balance, postural control, and motor skills. It also examined which motor skills are most affected and whether scores on different assessment tests in ASD children are correlated. A cross‐sectional observational study with two research groups was conducted. Timed up and go test (TUG), short form of Bruininks‐Oseretsky test of Motor Proficiency version 2 (SFBOT‐2), and pediatric balance scale (PBS) were used. A total of 100 participants 50 with ASD and 50 with NTD engaged in the research. Statistically significant differences were obtained between control group and ASD group in TUG test and in SFBOT‐2 standard score and total score (p‐value = <0.01). A statistically significant difference (p‐value = <0.01) was seen between ASD group's and control group's PBS scores. Poor correlation was noted between TUG and SFBOT‐2, as well as between PBS and TUG. A moderate correlation was also found between SFBOT‐2 and PBS. Children with ASD present difficulties in motor skills and in static and dynamic balance compared to children with NTD. Differences were observed in the motor skills of strength followed by manual dexterity, running speed and agility, fine motor precision, fine motor integration, and balance. The PBS item that showed the greatest difference between the ASD group and control group was maintaining monopodial support with hands on hips. Finally, poor to moderate correlations were obtained between the different tests with statistically significant differences.
Penalized Regression Methods With Modified Cross‐Validation and Bootstrap Tuning Produce Better Prediction Models
Authors: Pavlou Menelaos , Omar Rumana Z. , Ambler Gareth
Published: June 2024

Risk prediction models fitted using maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) are often overfitted resulting in predictions that are too extreme and a calibration slope (CS) less than 1. Penalized methods, such as Ridge and Lasso, have been suggested as a solution to this problem as they tend to shrink regression coefficients toward zero, resulting in predictions closer to the average. The amount of shrinkage is regulated by a tuning parameter, commonly selected via cross‐validation (“standard tuning”). Though penalized methods have been found to improve calibration on average, they often over‐shrink and exhibit large variability in the selected and hence the CS. This is a problem, particularly for small sample sizes, but also when using sample sizes recommended to control overfitting. We consider whether these problems are partly due to selecting using cross‐validation with “training” datasets of reduced size compared to the original development sample, resulting in an over‐estimation of and, hence, excessive shrinkage. We propose a modified cross‐validation tuning method (“modified tuning”), which estimates from a pseudo‐development dataset obtained via bootstrapping from the original dataset, albeit of larger size, such that the resulting cross‐validation training datasets are of the same size as the original dataset. Modified tuning can be easily implemented in standard software and is closely related to bootstrap selection of the tuning parameter (“bootstrap tuning”). We evaluated modified and bootstrap tuning for Ridge and Lasso in simulated and real data using recommended sample sizes, and sizes slightly lower and higher. They substantially improved the selection of , resulting in improved CS compared to the standard tuning method. They also improved predictions compared to MLE.
Chinese hamster ovary cell line engineering strategies for modular production of custom extracellular vesicles
Authors: Carrillo Sanchez Braulio , Hinchliffe Matthew , Ellis Mark , Simpson Catherine , Humphreys David , Sweeney Bernie , Bracewell Daniel G.
Published: June 2024

Continuously secreted by all cell types, extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane‐bound structures which shuttle bioactive cargo between cells across their external environment. Their central role as natural molecular messengers and ability to cross biological barriers has garnered significant attention in the use of EVs as therapeutic delivery vehicles. Still, harnessing the potential of EVs is faced with many obstacles. A cell line engineering approach can be used to exploit EVs to encapsulate a bespoke cargo of interest. However, full details regarding native EV‐loading mechanisms remain under debate, making this a challenge. While Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells are well known to be the preferred host for recombinant therapeutic protein production, their application as an EV producer cell host has been largely overlooked. In this study, we engineered CHO DG44 cells to produce custom EVs with bespoke cargo. To this end, genetic constructs employing split green fluorescent protein technology were designed for tagging both CD81 and protein cargoes to enable EV loading via self‐assembling activity. To demonstrate this, NanoLuc and mCherry were used as model reporter cargoes to validate engineered loading into EVs. Experimental findings indicated that our custom EV approach produced vesicles with up to 15‐fold greater cargo compared with commonly used passive loading strategies. When applied to recipient cells, we observed a dose‐dependent increase in cargo activity, suggesting successful delivery of engineered cargo via our custom CHO EVs.
An explainable machine learning model to solid adnexal masses diagnosis based on clinical data and qualitative ultrasound indicators
Authors: Fanizzi Annarita , Arezzo Francesca , Cormio Gennaro , Comes Maria Colomba , Cazzato Gerardo , Boldrini Luca , Bove Samantha , Bollino Michele , Kardhashi Anila , Silvestris Erica , Quarto Pietro , Mongelli Michele , Naglieri Emanuele , Signorile Rahel , Loizzi Vera , Massafra Raffaella
Published: June 2024

Background

Accurate characterization of newly diagnosed a solid adnexal lesion is a key step in defining the most appropriate therapeutic approach. Despite guidance from the International Ovarian Tumor Analyzes Panel, the evaluation of these lesions can be challenging. Recent studies have demonstrated how machine learning techniques can be applied to clinical data to solve this diagnostic problem. However, ML models can often consider as black‐boxes due to the difficulty of understanding the decision‐making process used by the algorithm to obtain a specific result.

Aims

For this purpose, we propose an Explainable Artificial Intelligence model trained on clinical characteristics and qualitative ultrasound indicators to predict solid adnexal masses diagnosis.

Materials & Methods

Since the diagnostic task was a three‐class problem (benign tumor, invasive cancer, or ovarian metastasis), we proposed a waterfall classification model: a first model was trained and validated to discriminate benign versus malignant, a second model was trained to distinguish nonmetastatic versus metastatic malignant lesion which occurs when a patient is predicted to be malignant by the first model. Firstly, a stepwise feature selection procedure was implemented. The classification performances were validated on Leave One Out scheme.

Results

The accuracy of the three‐class model reaches an overall accuracy of 86.36%, and the precision per‐class of the benign, nonmetastatic malignant, and metastatic malignant classes were 86.96%, 87.27%, and 77.78%, respectively. Discussion: SHapley Additive exPlanations were performed to visually show how the machine learning model made a specific decision. For each patient, the SHAP values expressed how each characteristic contributed to the classification result. Such information represents an added value for the clinical usability of a diagnostic system.

Conclusions

This is the first work that attempts to design an explainable machine‐learning tool for the histological diagnosis of solid masses of the ovary.
Who's willing to lay on the virtual couch? Attitudes, anthropomorphism and need for human interaction as factors of intentions to use chatbots for psychotherapy
Authors: Huțul Tudor‐Daniel , Popescu Alexandru , Karner‐Huțuleac Adina , Holman Andrei Corneliu , Huțul Andreea
Published: June 2024

Background

The rising demand for psychotherapy exceeds therapist availability, often due to financial or physical proximity constraints. Artificial intelligence (AI), particularly through chatbots, presents a promising solution, having shown efficacy in enhancing mental health.

Aims

This study investigated the psychotherapeutic relationship in the context of using chatbots for psychotherapy, in which the intimate and emotionally involving nature of the relationship might render the need for human interaction a strong deterrent to people's acceptance of anthropomorphised chatbots.

Methods

This study included four hundred ninety‐four participants, aged 15 to 69 years (M = 22.77; SD = 8.43); 75.1% of them were females. They completed scales that measure attitudes towards the use of chatbots in psychotherapy, AI and seeking professional psychological help, need for human interaction in psychotherapy, importance of anthropomorphic qualities and intentions to use chatbots in psychotherapy.

Results

Individuals' engagement in using chatbots in psychotherapy is related to their attitudes towards chatbots and towards AI in general, not only to the importance that they place on chatbots having anthropomorphic traits, but also to the strength of their needs for human interaction in the psychotherapeutic relationship.

Conclusion

Technology can enhance the psychotherapeutic process, but should not replace therapists entirely for people who seek psychological assistance.
Antimicrobial Potential of Chitosan Films Incorporated with Alcoholic Extract from Mimosa tenuiflora Leaves
Authors: dos Santos Arnaud Victor , Santos Rodrigo N. , Santana Aiane N. , Santos de Jesus Andreza , Torquato Suzimone de Jesus C. , Pereira Madson de G. , Santos Luis Filipe G. , Lassarote Lavall Rodrigo , Malta Marcos , dos Santos Gustavo Souza , Ferraz Caline G. , Ribeiro Paulo R. , de Souza Neta Lourdes C.
Published: June 2024

Antimicrobial films were prepared with chitosan containing the methanolic extract of M. tenuiflora leaves (FECT20 %, FECT30 %, and FECT40 %), and their antimicrobial activities were evaluated by agar diffusion. The films were characterized by IR spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and TG/DTG curves. TG/DTG curves showed thermal stability of chitosan‐extract films up to 166 °C. Micrographs of chitosan‐extract films revealed an increase in porosity with the addition of extract. The FECT40 % film showed inhibition zone diameters (IZ) against Micrococcus luteus, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, and B. cereus, ranging from 1.0±0.02 to 0.72±0.09 cm. Only FECT30 % and FECT40 % inhibited the P. aeruginosa with IZs of 0.68±0.02 and 0.77±0.06 cm, respectively. In turn, the extract showed inhibition against B. subtilis and B. cereus, with IZs values of 0.92±0.2 cm and 0.72±0.05 cm, respectively. Additionally, the crude extract presented antioxidant potential with inhibition percentages of 32.74 %±0.90 for ABTS and 27.04 %±1.36 for DPPH. The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the crude extract, as well as the antimicrobial property of chitosan‐extract films, suggests the potential of these biopolymers for the development of wound healing bandages and new food packaging alternatives.
Successful treatment of corneal hypertrophic scar in Hurler syndrome
Authors: Koosha Nima , Irajpour Matin , Rostamiyan Zeynab , Shahsavari Ali , Forouhari Ali , Pourazizi Mohsen
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

In Hurler syndrome, corneal opacification is a common finding but rarely manifests as hypertrophic scars. A 6‐year‐old boy with Hurler syndrome had a hypertrophic scar on his left eye, which was successfully treated with superficial keratectomy.
Expanded‐access use of elamipretide in a patient with membrane protein‐associated neurodegeneration
Authors: Patino Jorge , Clearman Anna Haertling , Miller Lindsey , Koenig Mary Kay
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case report presents a progressively declining 17‐year‐old patient with membrane protein‐associated neurodegeneration who demonstrated symptomatic improvements in her dysarthria, dysphagia, and gait, and objective improvements in her 6‐minute walk test and 5 times sit‐to‐stand test during elamipretide treatment.
Small Organic Molecule‐Assisted Mesoscopic Self‐Assembly of SnO2 Nanoparticles: An Efficient Catalyst for the Synthesis of β‐Nitroaldol
Authors: Das Swapan K. , Abdul Matheen I. , Kathiravan Arunkumar , Asha Jhonsi Mariadoss , Bhaumik Asim
Published: June 2024

Over the past few decades, huge number of mesoporous materials have been synthesized by using supramolecular assembly of ionic/non‐ionic surfactants as structure‐directing agents (SDAs). Here, we report a facile synthetic strategy to fabricate self‐assembled SnO2 nanoparticles with well‐defined nanocrystalline spherical morphology and mesoporosity using sodium salicylate as a SDA and stabilizing agent. The mesophases of the materials were investigated by powder X‐ray diffraction, TEM and N2 sorption studies. TEM results show that the mesopores are formed by the assembly of ultrasmall SnO2 NPs with broad range of interparticle voids and N2 sorption studies agreed well with this TEM data. This synthesis strategy facilitated the generation of SnO2 NPs with increased surface area and pores of nanoscale dimensions with a large number of exposed surface‐active sites. The photoinduced electron transfer in these materials was investigated by the fluorescence quenching study with pyranine, which suggested the presence of surface Lewis basicity. The materials showed excellent catalytic activity for the synthesis of β‐nitroaldol through the reaction of benzaldehyde and nitromethane. The heterogeneous nature of the catalyst could be attributed to the high surface area, presence of numerous surface active sites, and structural robustness of the self‐assembled SnO2 nanostructure. The catalysts exhibited negligible loss in activity after several catalytic cycles.