bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Constructing Metal(II)‐Sulfate Site Catalysts toward Low Overpotential Carbon Dioxide Electroreduction to Fuel Chemicals
Authors: Yuan Chen‐Yue , Feng Li , Qin Xuetao , Liu Jin‐Xun , Li Xin , Sun Xiao‐Chen , Chang Xiao‐Xia , Xu Bing‐Jun , Li Wei‐Xue , Ma Ding , Dong Hao , Zhang Ya‐Wen
Published: April 2024

Precise regulation of the active site structure is an important means to enhance the activity and selectivity of catalysts in CO2 electroreduction. Here, we creatively introduce anionic groups, which can not only stabilize metal sites with strong coordination ability but also have rich interactions with protons at active sites to modify the electronic structure and proton transfer process of catalysts. This strategy helps to convert CO2 into fuel chemicals at low overpotentials. As a typical example, a composite catalyst, CuO/Cu−NSO4/CN, with highly dispersed Cu(II)−SO4 sites has been reported, in which CO2 electroreduction to formate occurs at a low overpotential with a high Faradaic efficiency (−0.5 V vs. RHE, FEformate=87.4 %). Pure HCOOH is produced with an energy conversion efficiency of 44.3 % at a cell voltage of 2.8 V. Theoretical modeling demonstrates that sulfate promotes CO2 transformation into a carboxyl intermediate followed by HCOOH generation, whose mechanism is significantly different from that of the traditional process via a formate intermediate for HCOOH production.
Robust, Efficient, and Recoverable Thermocells with Zwitterion‐Boosted Hydrogel Electrolytes for Energy‐Autonomous and Wearable Sensing
Authors: Lu Xin , Mo Ziwei , Liu Zhaopeng , Hu Yifeng , Du Chunyu , Liang Lirong , Liu Zhuoxin , Chen Guangming
Published: April 2024

The rapid growth of flexible quasi‐solid‐state thermocells (TECs) provides a fresh way forward for wearable electronics. However, their insufficient mechanical strength and power output still hinder their further applications. This work demonstrates a one‐stone‐two‐birds strategy to synergistically enhance the mechanical and thermoelectrochemical properties of the [Fe(CN)6]3−/4−‐based TECs. By introducing Hofmeister effect and multiple non‐covalent interactions via betaine zwitterions, the mechanical strength of the conventional brittle gelatin hydrogel electrolytes is substantially improved from 50 to 440 kPa, with a high stretchability approaching 250 %. Meanwhile, the betaine zwitterions strongly affect the solvation structure of [Fe(CN)6]3− ions, thus enlarging the entropy difference and raising the thermoelectrochemical Seebeck coefficient from 1.47 to 2.2 mV K−1. The resultant quasi‐solid‐state TECs exhibit a normalized output power density of 0.48 mW m−2 K−2, showing a notable improvement in overall performance compared to their counterparts without zwitterion regulation. The intrinsic thermo‐reversible property also allows the TECs to repeatedly self‐recover through sol‐gel transformations, ensuring reliable energy output and even recycling of TECs in case of extreme mechanical damages. An energy‐autonomous smart glove consisting of eighteen individual TECs is further designed, which can simultaneously monitor the temperature of different positions on any touched object, demonstrating high potential in wearable applications.
H8‐BINOL‐Derived Chiral η6‐Benzene Ligands: New Opportunities for the Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric C−H Activation
Authors: Li Junxuan , Wang Guodong , Guo Weicong , Jiang Jijun , Wang Jun
Published: April 2024

Given the tremendous success of (p‐cymene)RuII‐catalyzed C−H activation over the past 20 years, the community has long been aware that the development of chiral η6‐benzene (Ben) ligands should be a potent strategy for achieving the attractive but incredibly underdeveloped ruthenium(II)‐catalyzed asymmetric C−H activation. However, it has rarely been achieved due to the severe difficulty in developing proper chiral Ben ligands. In particular, designing chiral Ben ligands by connecting a benzene fragment to a chiral framework including benzene rings remained an unsolved challenge until this effort. Here we present a novel class of axially chiral Ben ligands derived from readily available (S)‐5,5′,6,6′,7,7′,8,8′‐octahydro‐1,1′‐bi‐2‐naphthol ((S)‐H8‐BINOL) in 4–8 steps. Notably, when coordinated with ruthenium, such chiral Ben ligand containing three benzene rings only forms one of the three possible isomeric BenRuII complexes. The related chiral BenRuII catalysts could effectively catalyze the asymmetric C−H activation of N‐sulfonyl ketimines with alkynes, affording a range of chiral spirocyclic sultams in up to 99 % yield with up to >99 % ee. These catalysts are expected to find broad applications in future.
Built‐in Electric Fields in Heterostructured Lamellar Membranes Enable Highly Efficient Rejection of Charged Mass
Authors: Chen Chongchong , Wu Xiaoli , Chen Jingjing , Liu Siyu , Wang Yongzheng , Wu Wenjia , Zhang Jie , Wang Jingtao , Jiang Zhongyi
Published: April 2024

Separation membranes with homogeneous charge channels are the mainstream to reject charged mass by forming electrical double layer (EDL). However, the EDL often compresses effective solvent transport space and weakens channel‐ion interaction. Here, built‐in electric fields (BIEFs) are constructed in lamellar membranes by assembling the heterostructured nanosheets, which contain alternate positively‐charged nanodomains and negatively‐charged nanodomains. We demonstrate that the BIEFs are perpendicular to horizontal channel and the direction switches alternately, significantly weakening the EDL effect and forces ions to repeatedly collide with channel walls. Thus, highly efficient rejection for charged mass (salts, dyes, and organic acids/bases) and ultrafast water transport are achieved. Moreover, for desalination on four‐stage filtration option, salt rejection reaches 99.9 % and water permeance reaches 19.2 L m−2 h−1 bar−1. Such mass transport behavior is quite different from that in homogeneous charge channels. Furthermore, the ion transport behavior in nanochannels is elucidated by validating horizontal projectile motion model.
Thermal and Photoinduced Radical Cascade Annulation using Aryl Isonitriles: An Approach to Quinoline‐Derived Benzophosphole Oxides
Authors: Banjare Shyam Kumar , Lezius Lena , Horst Elena S. , Leifert Dirk , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Alasmary Fatmah A. , Studer Armido
Published: April 2024

Herein, we present a radical cascade addition cyclization sequence to access quinoline‐based benzophosphole oxides from ortho‐alkynylated aromatic phosphine oxides using various aryl isonitriles as radical acceptors and inexpensive tert‐butyl‐hydroperoxide (TBHP) as a terminal oxidant in the presence of a catalytic amount of silver acetate. Alternatively, the same cascade can be realized through a sustainable photochemical approach utilizing 1,2,3,5‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)‐4,6‐dicyanobenzene (4CzIPN) as an organic photocatalyst at room temperature. The introduced modular approach shows broad functional group tolerance and offers straightforward access to complex P,N‐containing polyheterocyclic arenes. These novel π‐extended benzophosphole oxides exhibit interesting photophysical and electrochemical properties such as absorption in the visible region, emission and reversible reduction at low potentials, which makes them promising for potential materials science applications. The photophysical properties can further be tuned by the addition of external Lewis and Brønsted acids.
Autonomic and hedonic response to affective touch in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Capiotto Francesca , Romano Cappi Giulia , Mirlisenna Ilaria , Mazza Alessandro , Cicinelli Giovanni , Lauritano Chiara , Keller Roberto , Dal Monte Olga
Published: April 2024

Interpersonal touch plays a crucial role in shaping relationships and encouraging social connections. Failure in processing tactile input or abnormal tactile sensitivity may hamper social behaviors and have severe consequences in individuals' relational lives. Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by both sensory disruptions and social impairments, making affective touch an ideal meeting point for understanding these features in ASD individuals. By integrating behavioral and physiological measures, we investigated the effects of affective touch on adult individuals with ASD from both an implicit and explicit perspective. Specifically, at an implicit level, we investigated whether and how receiving an affective touch influenced participants' skin conductance tonic and phasic components. At the explicit level, we delved into the affective and unpleasant features of affective touch. Overall, we observed lower skin conductance level in ASD compared to TD subjects. Interestingly, the typically developing (TD) group showed an increased autonomic response for affective touch compared to a control touch, while ASD subjects' autonomic response did not differ between the two conditions. Furthermore, ASD participants provided higher ratings for both the affective and unpleasant components of the touch, compared to TD subjects. Our results reveal a noteworthy discrepancy in ASD population between the subjective experience, characterized by amplified hedonic but also unpleasant responses, and the physiological response, marked by a lack of autonomic activation related to affective touch. This insightful dissociation seems crucial for a deeper understanding of the distinctive challenges characterizing people with ASD and may have implications for diagnosis and therapeutic approaches.
Do local government sustainability initiatives impact corporate social sustainability practices?
Authors: Ida Atsuhiro , Yoshida Kenichi , Xie Jun , Tanaka Yoshitaka , Managi Shunsuke
Published: April 2024

This study quantifies the initiatives of local governments' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and examines their impacts on regional corporate social sustainability practices. Our analysis reveals statistically significant results for corporate action on the following government initiatives on SDGs: BOD/COD effluent standard (6. clean water and sanitation and 14. life below water); number of students per personal computer (PC) (4. quality education); percent of female prefectural assembly members (5. gender equality and 16. peace, justice, and strong institutions); and minimum wage (1. no poverty and 2. zero hunger). These results are robust after controlling for peer effects by other firms in the surrounding regions. The evidence also indicates that these trends are more pronounced in footloose industries than in heavy industries.
When and How does in‐role pro‐environmental behavior spill over to extra‐role behavior: Two experimental studies in the retail and education industries
Authors: Guo Wenjing , Unsworth Kerrie , Bretter Christian , Davis Matthew
Published: April 2024

By integrating theories of goal proximity and crowding‐out, this research investigates how and when employees' performance of in‐role pro‐environmental behaviors will spill over to future engagement in extra‐role pro‐environmental behaviors. Using two experiments with employees from the retail (N = 338) and education (N = 448) industries, we found a conditional positive spillover effect, mediated by pro‐environmental goal commitment. More specifically, when employees with low intrinsic pro‐environmental motivation received feedback that they had progressed in their in‐role pro‐environmental performance, their extra‐role pro‐environmental behavior intentions increased due to an increased commitment to the pro‐environmental goal. However, when employees had high intrinsic pro‐environmental motivation, this spillover effect was negative (Study 1) or non‐significant (Study 2). To summarize, the positive spillover effect only occurs when employees are not highly intrinsically motivated. Our findings uncover a missing piece in organizational environmental management literature and carry important implications for employee‐oriented initiatives.
A finite‐state machine‐based control design for thermal and state‐of‐charge balancing of lithium iron phosphate battery using flyback converters
Authors: Zabetian‐Hosseini Asal , Ghazanfari Amin , Boulet Benoit
Published: April 2024

Battery cell balancing plays a vital role in maximizing the performance of the battery system by enhancing battery system capacity and prolonging the battery system life expectancy. Active cell balancing using power converters is a promising approach to maintaining uniform state of charges (SoCs) and temperatures across battery cells. The SoC balancing function in the battery management system (BMS) increases the battery pack capacity, and the temperature balancing function mitigates variations in the aging of battery cells due to unbalanced temperatures. In this work, a finite‐state machine‐based control design is proposed for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cells in series to balance SoCs and temperatures using flyback converters. The primary objective of this design is to ensure balanced SoCs by the end of the charging session while mitigating the temperature imbalance during the charging process. To achieve the SoC and temperature balancing functions using the same balancing circuits, a finite‐state machine control design decides on the operating mode, and a balancing strategy balances either temperature or SoC depending on the operating mode. The proposed control design has the advantages of low computational burden, simple implementation compared to the optimization‐based controller found in the literature, and the proposed balancing strategy offers faster balancing speed compared to conventional methods. The effectiveness of the proposed strategy is validated on battery cell RC models in series with unbalanced SoCs and temperatures.
New Indole Alkaloids from the Fungus Talaromyces assiutensis JTY2
Authors: Zhu Hong‐Quan , Feng Shuo , Xie Rong‐Kun , Zhu Zheng‐Tian , Lou Yong‐Hao , Zhou Xue‐Ming , Song Xin‐Ming
Published: April 2024

Three new indole alkaloids, named talatensindoids A−C (1–3), together with two known biogenetically related indole alkaloids tryptamine (4) and L‐tryptophan (5) were isolated from the Talaromyces assiutensis JTY2 based on the guidance of OSMAC approach. The structures of these indole alkaloids were determined by comprehensive spectroscopic analyses. The absolute configuration of 3 was confirmed by X‐ray crystallographic analysis. Compound 1 represent the rare example of a chlorine‐substituted indole alkaloid from natural products. The inhibitory activity of compounds 1–5 against two phytopathogenic fungi and three phytopathogenic bacteria was evaluated. Compound 1 exhibited broad spectrum antibacterial activities.
The Role of Microbial Diversity in Lignocellulosic Biomass Degradation: A Biotechnological Perspective
Authors: Rasool Ghulam , Irfan Muhammad
Published: April 2024

Lignocellulosic biomass, such as plant residues and agricultural waste, holds immense potential as a renewable resource for the production of biofuels, chemicals, and animal feed. However, the efficient degradation of lignocellulose into fermentable sugars remains a significant challenge. Recent research has highlighted the critical role of microbial diversity in lignocellulosic biomass degradation, offering new insights from a biotechnological perspective. The comprehension and utilization of microbial diversity are crucial for developing efficient biotechnological strategies for lignocellulosic biomass degradation. By uncovering the intricate relationships between microbial communities and their enzymatic machinery, researchers can optimize degradation processes, enhance biofuel production, and contribute to a more sustainable bio‐based economy. Microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and archaea, possess diverse enzymatic capabilities, allowing them to secrete a plethora of lignocellulolytic enzymes. Microbial organisms inhabiting extreme environments, such as the rumen, hot and cold springs, deep sea trenches, and acidic and alkaline pH environments, exhibit significant potential in generating enzymes, including hemicellulolytic and lignocellulolytic enzymes, which possess superior biochemical properties essential for industrial bioconversion applications. This review explores the ability of lignocellulosic enzymes from microbial sources to efficiently break down the lignocellulosic biomass and their potential applications in industrial biotechnology.
KpsS1 Mediates the Glycosylation of Pseudaminic Acid in Acinetobacter Baumannii
Authors: Cheung Yan Chu , Guo Xing , Yang Xuemei , Wei Ruohan , Chan Edward Waichi , Li Xuechen , Chen Sheng
Published: April 2024

Pseudaminic acid (Pse) is found in the polysaccharide structures of the cell surface of various Gram‐negative pathogenic bacteria including Acinetobacter baumannii and considered as an important component of cell surface glycans including oligosaccharides and glycoproteins. However, the glycosyltransferase that is responsible for the Pse glycosylation in A. baumannii remains unknown yet. In this study, through comparative genomics analysis of Pse‐positive and negative A. baumannii clinical isolates, we identified a potential glycosyltransferase, KpsS1, located right downstream of the Pse biosynthesis genetic locus. Deletion of this gene in an Pse‐positive A. baumannii strain, Ab8, impaired the glycosylation of Pse to the surface CPS and proteins, while the gene knockout strain, Ab8ΔkpsS1, could still produce Pse with 2.86 folds higher amount than that of Ab8. Furthermore, impairment of Pse glycosylation affected the morphology and virulence potential of A. baumannii, suggesting the important role of this protein. This study will provide insights into the further understanding of Pse in bacterial physiology and pathogenesis.
Wavelength‐Dependent Activation of Photoacids and Bases
Authors: Utroša Petra , Carroll Joshua A. , Žagar Ema , Pahovnik David , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: April 2024

Photoacids and bases allow remote control over pH in reaction solutions, which is of fundamental importance to an array of applications. Herein, we determine the wavelength‐by‐wavelength resolved photoreactivity of triarylsulfonium hexafluorophosphate salts as a representative photoacid generator and p‐(benzoyl)benzyl triethylammonium tetraphenylborate as a photobase generator, constructing a wavelength‐resolved photochemical action plot for each of the compounds. We monitor the pH change of the solution on‐line within the cavity of the laser vial and demonstrate a marked mismatch between the absorption spectrum of the photoacid and base with the photochemical action plot, unveiling reactivity at very low absorptivities. Our findings are of critical importance for the use of photoacids and bases, unambiguously demonstrating that absorption is no guide to chemical reactivity with critical consequences for the wavelength employed in applications of photoacids and bases.
Insight into the Effect of Methylglyoxal on the Conformation, Function, and Aggregation Propensity of α‐Synuclein
Authors: Mariño Laura , Belén Uceda Ana , Leal Francisco , Adrover Miquel
Published: April 2024

It is well‐known that people suffering from hyperglycemia have a higher propensity to develop Parkinson's disease (PD). One of the most plausible mechanisms linking these two pathologies is the glycation of neuronal proteins and the pathological consequences of it. α‐Synuclein, a key component in PD, can be glycated at its fifteen lysine. In fact, the end products of this process have been detected on aggregated α‐synuclein isolated from in vivo. However, the consequences of glycation are not entirely clear, which are of crucial importance to understand the mechanism underlying the connection between diabetes and PD. To better clarify this, we have here examined how methylglyoxal (the most important carbonyl compound found in the cytoplasm) affects the conformation and aggregation propensity of α‐synuclein, as well as its ability to cluster and fuse synaptic‐like vesicles. The obtained data prove that methylglyoxal induces the Lys‐Lys crosslinking through the formation of MOLD. However, this does not have a remarkable effect on the averaged conformational ensemble of α‐synuclein, although it completely depletes its native propensity to form soluble oligomers and insoluble amyloid fibrils. Moreover, methylglyoxal has a disrupting effect on the ability of α‐synuclein to bind, cluster and fusion synaptic‐like vesicles.
Modular Construction of Vinylene‐Linked Covalent Organic Frameworks with Tunable Emission for Tumor Visualization
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Jiande , Qiao Shujie , Guo Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with ordered π structures are very promising in porous light‐emitting materials. However, most of these COFs are either poor in luminescence or lack of water‐stability. Herein, a series of isostructural D−A vinylene‐linked COFs were constructed based a new D2h symmetric linker 1,4‐bis(4,6‐dimethyl‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)benzene (TMTA) with high crystallinity, comparative high surface area and excellent chemical/thermal stability. Impressively, their adsorption and luminescence wavelength vary with respect to the density of π‐systems in the electron‐donating group, which constitute the foundation for molecular engineering the luminescent properties of vinylene‐linked COFs. The DFT calculations further established the relationship between the luminescence properties and the donor electronic structure. Moreover, one of representative COF named FZU‐203 showed inspiring applications in bioimaging, which may further provide strategic guidance for the use of vinylene‐linked COFs as fluorescent nanoprobes in non‐invasive medical diagnosis and visualization therapy of tumors.
HPLC‐Based Automated Synthesis and Purification of Carbohydrates
Authors: Kashiwagi Gustavo A. , Petrosilli Laura , Escopy Samira , Lay Luigi , Stine Keith J. , De Meo Cristina , Demchenko Alexei V.
Published: April 2024

Reported herein is a new HPLC‐based automated synthesizer (HPLC−A) capable of a temperature‐controlled synthesis and purification of carbohydrates. The developed platform allows to perform various protecting group manipulations as well as the synthesis of O‐ and N‐glycosides. A fully automated synthesis and purification was showcased in application to different carbohydrate derivatives including glycosides, oligosaccharides, glycopeptides, glycolipids, and nucleosides.
Polymeric Nanozyme with SOD Activity Capable of Inhibiting Self‐ and Metal‐Induced α‐Synuclein Aggregation
Authors: Martínez‐Camarena Álvaro , Bellia Francesco , Paz Clares M. , Vecchio Graziella , Nicolas Julien , García‐España Enrique
Published: April 2024

Despite decades of research, Parkinson's disease is still an idiopathic pathology for which no cure has yet been found. This is partly explained by the multifactorial character of most neurodegenerative syndromes, whose generation involves multiple pathogenic factors. In Parkinson's disease, two of the most important ones are the aggregation of α‐synuclein and oxidative stress. In this work, we address both issues by synthesizing a multifunctional nanozyme based on grafting a pyridinophane ligand that can strongly coordinate CuII, onto biodegradable PEGylated polyester nanoparticles. The resulting nanozyme exhibits remarkable superoxide dismutase activity together with the ability to inhibit the self‐induced aggregation of α‐synuclein into amyloid‐type fibrils. Furthermore, the combination of the chelator and the polymer produces a cooperative effect whereby the resulting nanozyme can also halve CuII‐induced α‐synuclein aggregation.
Efficient Chemical Prelithiation with Modificatory Li+ Solvation Structure Enabling Spatially Homogeneous SEI toward High Performance SiOx Anode†
Authors: Wang Ruoyang , Wu Yuqing , Niu Yifan , Yang Qing , Li Haoyu , Song Yang , Zhong Benhe , Yang Liwen , Chen Ting , Wu Zhenguo , Guo Xiaodong
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Chemical prelithiation is widely proven to be an effective strategy to address the low initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) of promising SiOx anode. Though the reagent composition has been widely explored, the Li+ solvation structure, which practically plays the cornerstone role in the prelithiation ability, rate, uniformility, has rarely been explored. A novel environmentally‐friendly reagent with weak solvent cyclopentyl methyl ether (CPME) is proposed that enables both improved ICE and spatial homogeneous solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). And the prelithiation behavior and mechanism were explored focused on the Li+ solvation structure. Both theoretical investigation and spectroscopic results suggest that weak solvent feature of CPME reduces the solvent coordination number and decreases the Li+ desolvation energy. The optimized Li+ solvation structure enables high‐efficiency prelithiation that ensures the horizontal homogenization and mechanical properties of SEI. Moreover, the accompanied CPME molecules preferentially occupy positions in initial SEI, reducing the likelihood of LiPF6 decomposition and promoting longitudinal homogenization of SEI. Consequently, the efficient and homogenous prelithiation enables impressive ICE of 109.52% and improved cycling performance with 80.77% retained after 300 cycles via just 5 min soaking. Furthermore, the full cells with LiNi0.83Co0.12Mn0.05O2 (NCM831205) cathode display an enhancement in the energy density of 179.74% and up to 648.35 Wh·kg–1.
Anticonvulsant activity of Tetrahydrolinalool: behavioral, electrophysiological, and molecular docking approaches
Authors: Fonsêca Diogo V. , da Silva Pablo R. , Pires Hugo F. O. , Rocha Juliana S. , de Oliveira Leandra Eugênia G. , Reis Flavia M. S. , Cavalho Erika B. M. , Pazos Natalia D. N. , de Sousa Natália F. , Guedes Erika C. , Ribeiro Leandro R. , de Cassia S. Sá Rita , Salvadori Mirian G. S. S. , Sousa Damião P. , Scotti Marcus T. , Felipe Cicero F. B. , de Almeida Reinaldo N. , Scotti Luciana
Published: April 2024

Tetrahydrolinalool (THL) is an acyclic monoterpene alcohol, produced during linalol metabolism and also a constituent of essential oils. As described in the literature, many monoterpenes present anticonvulsant properties, and thus we became interested in evaluating the anticonvulsant activity of Tetrahydrolinalool using in mice model as well as in silico approaches. Our results demonstrated that THL increased latency to seizure onset and also reduced the mortality, in picrotoxin induced seizure tests. The results may be related to GABAergic regulation, which was also suggested in seizure testing induced by 3‐mercapto‐propionic acid. In the strychnine‐induced seizure testing, none of the groups pretreated with THL modulated the parameters indicative of anticonvulsant effect. The electrophysiological results revealed that THL treatment reduces seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole. The in silico molecular docking studies showed that the interaction between THL and a GABAA receptor model formed a stable complex, in comparison to the crystaligraphic structure of diazepam, a structurally related ligand. In conclusion, all the evidences showed that THL presents effective anticonvulsant activity related to the GABAergic pathway, being a candidate for treatment of epileptic syndromes
Pd‐Catalyzed Coupling of Bromo‐N‐ (β‐glucopyranosyl)quinolin‐2‐ones with Amides: Synthesis of N‐glucosyl‐6BrCaQ Conjugates with Potent Anticancer Activity
Authors: Redjdal Wafa , Benmahdjoub Sara , Luong Thi Thanh Hyen , Benmerad Belkacem , Le Bideau Franck , Vergnaud Juliette , Messaoudi Samir
Published: April 2024

A series of N‐glycosyl‐ 6BrCaQ conjugates was synthesized through a Pd‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction between brominated N‐glycosyl quinolin‐2‐one derivatives and various nitrogen nucleophiles. Antiproliferative assays revealed that this new series of analogues represents a promising class of antitumor compounds as illustrated by the high biological activity observed for several derivatives towards different cancer cell lines compared to the non‐glycosylated congeners.
Engineering Cyanine‐ and Hemicyanine‐Based Probes for Optical Imaging of Kidney Diseases
Authors: Yi Shujuan , Liang Baoshuai , Huang Jiaguo
Published: April 2024

Molecular optical probes play pivotal roles in in vivo imaging of biomarkers associated to kidney diseases. Relying on structural tunability and high fluorescence quantum yields, versatile optical probes have been constructed on cyanine or hemicyanine‐based scaffold in recent years. This review summaries the recent progress on the development of optical probes for imaging of kidney diseases, particularly through near‐infrared fluorescence, chemiluminescence and photoacoustic imaging modalities. The chemical design and sensing mechanisms are discussed along with applications in the detection of renal cell carcinoma and acute kidney injury. This progress provides insights and directions for the development of next generation kidney‐targeted probes and for pushing their further applications in preclinical and clinical research.
Superhydrophilic Densely‐Packed Gecko‐Like Structures by Soft‐Template Electropolymerization
Authors: Dione Pape Diene , Diouf Alioune , Dramé Abdoulaye , Orange François , Guittard Frédéric , Darmanin Thierry
Published: April 2024

Bio‐inspired by natural species and previous research works, nanotubes are prepared by soft‐template electropolymerization in micellar solution. Various thiophene‐based and carbazole‐based monomers are designed from a triphenylamine core. With one of the carbazole‐based monomers, which is fully conjugated and with a star‐like structure, gecko‐like surface structures are obtained even if the structure is not perfectly planar. Extremely long and densely packed‐microtubes are reached especially at constant potential. However, the surfaces are not both highly hydrophobic and with strong water adhesion, but are superhydrophilic. These wetting properties can be explained by a high surface energy (γSV)=41.9 mN m−1 compared to gecko foot even if the natural gecko feet are also chemically inhomogeneous, or by differences in the arrangement of the surface structures.
Dose Optimization Informed by PBPK Modeling: State‐of‐the Art and Future
Authors: Rowland Yeo Karen , Gil Berglund Eva , Chen Yuan
Published: April 2024

Model‐informed drug development (MIDD) is a powerful quantitative approach that plays an integral role in drug development and regulatory review. While applied throughout the life cycle of the development of new drugs, a key application of MIDD is to inform clinical trial design including dose selection and optimization. To date, physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling, an established component of the MIDD toolkit, has mainly been used for assessment of drug–drug interactions (DDIs) and consequential dose adjustments in regulatory submissions. As a result of recent scientific advances and growing confidence in the utility of the approach, PBPK models are being increasingly applied to provide dose recommendations for subjects with differing ages, genetics, and disease states. In this review, we present our perspective on the current landscape of regulatory acceptance of PBPK applications supported by relevant case studies. We also discuss the recent progress and future challenges associated with expanding the utility of PBPK models into emerging areas for regulatory decision making, especially dose optimization in highly vulnerable and understudied populations and facilitating diversity in clinical trials.
CSR from different perspectives: The global ESG indexes updated
Authors: Jiang Ping‐Chuan , Feng Gen‐Fu , Wang Hai‐Jie , Chang Chun‐Ping
Published: April 2024

The prevailing environmental, social and governance (ESG) framework is currently based on micro‐ESG indicators. Research on national ESG is often limited to theory building and policy analysis. Based on previous scholars, this paper constructs a national ESG index framework consisting of 39 indices and updates the national ESG indices for 121 countries worldwide from 1990 to 2021 using the entropy weight method, aiming to provide a set of instrumental indices that capture the status and evolution of national ESG performance. The research findings are as follows: First, the Gini coefficient shows that the gap between national ESG performance has gradually widened over time. Second, the kernel density distribution suggests that global ESG performance is on the rise. High‐income countries are placing greater emphasis on ESG growth. Third, the results of the Markov transformation matrix suggest that there is a “club convergence” in ESG performance across countries.
Polyoxomolybdate‐Based Metal–Organic Framework‐Derived Cu‐Embedded Molybdenum Dioxide Hybrid Nanoparticles as Highly Efficient Electrocatalysts for Al−S Batteries
Authors: Zhou Qiuping , Jiang Xinyuan , Zhang Xuecheng , Wang Dawei , Yang Guang , Zhou He , Wu Yuchao , Guo Fang , Chen Ming , Diao Guowang , Ni Lubin
Published: April 2024

High‐performance rechargeable aluminum‐sulfur batteries (RASB) have great potential for various applications owing to their high theoretical capacity, abundant sulfur resources, and good safety. Nevertheless, the practical application of RASB still faces several challenges, including the polysulfide shuttle phenomenon and low sulfur utilization efficiency. Here, we first developed a synergistic copper heterogeneous metal oxide MoO2 derived from polymolybdate‐based metal‐organic framework as an efficient catalyst for mitigating polysulfide diffusion. This composite enhances sulfur utilization and electrical conductivity of the cathode. DFT calculations and experimental results reveal the catalyst Cu/MoO2@C not only effectively anchors aluminum polysulfides (AlPSs) to mitigate the shuttle effect, but also significantly promotes the catalytic conversion of AlPSs on the sulfur cathode side during charging and discharging. The unique nanostructure contains abundant electrocatalytic active sites of oxide nanoparticles and Cu clusters, resulting in excellent electrochemical performance. Consequently, the established RASB exhibits an initial capacity of 875 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1 and maintains a capacity of 967 mAh g−1 even at a high temperature of 50 °C.
Comprehensive multi‐omics analysis of resectable locally advanced gastric cancer: Assessing response to neoadjuvant camrelizumab and chemotherapy in a single‐center, open‐label, single‐arm phase II trial
Authors: Zhao Yuzhou , Li Danyang , Zhuang Jing , Li Zhimeng , Xia Qingxin , Li Zhi , Yu Juan , Wang Jinbang , Zhang Yong , Li Ke , Xu Shuning , Li Sen , Ma Pengfei , Cao Yanghui , Liu Chenyu , Xu Chunmiao , Liu Zhentian , Wei Jinwang , Zhang Chengjuan , Qiao Lei , Gao Xuan , Hou Zhiguo , Liu Chenxuan , Zheng Rongrong , Wang Du , Liu Ying
Published: April 2024

Background

The current standard of care for locally advanced gastric cancer (GC) involves neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by radical surgery. Recently, neoadjuvant treatment for this condition has involved the exploration of immunotherapy plus chemotherapy as a potential approach. However, the efficacy remains uncertain.

Methods

A single‐arm, phase 2 study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of neoadjuvant camrelizumab combined with mFOLFOX6 and identify potential biomarkers of response through multi‐omics analysis in patients with resectable locally advanced GC. The primary endpoint was the pathological complete response (pCR) rate. Secondary endpoints included the R0 rate, near pCR rate, progression‐free survival (PFS), disease‐free survival (DFS), and overall survival (OS). Multi‐omics analysis was assessed by whole‐exome sequencing, transcriptome sequencing, and multiplex immunofluorescence (mIF) using biopsies pre‐ and post‐neoadjuvant therapy.

Results

This study involved 60 patients, of which 55 underwent gastrectomy. Among these, five (9.1%) attained a pathological complete response (pCR), and 11 (20.0%) reached near pCR. No unexpected treatment‐emergent adverse events or perioperative mortality were observed, and the regimen presented a manageable safety profile. Molecular changes identified through multi‐omics analysis correlated with treatment response, highlighting associations between HER2‐positive and CTNNB1 mutations with treatment sensitivity and a favourable prognosis. This finding was further supported by immune cell infiltration analysis and mIF. Expression data uncovered a risk model with four genes (RALYL, SCGN, CCKBR, NTS) linked to poor response. Additionally, post‐treatment infiltration of CD8+ T lymphocytes positively correlates with pathological response.

Conclusion

The findings suggest the combination of PD‐1‐inhibitor and mFOLFOX6 showed efficacy and acceptable toxicity for locally advanced GC. Extended follow‐up is required to determine the duration of the response. This study lays essential groundwork for developing precise neoadjuvant regimens.
Heat transfer during droplet impact on a cold superhydrophobic surface via interfacial thermal mapping
Authors: Kumar Vijay , Fu Qianxi , Szeto Harrison , Zhu Yangying
Published: April 2024

Undesired heat transfer during droplet impact on cold surfaces can lead to ice formation and damage to renewable infrastructure, among others. To address this, superhydrophobic surfaces aim to minimize the droplet surface interaction thereby, holding promise to greatly limit heat transfer. However, the droplet impact on such surfaces spans only a few milliseconds making it difficult to quantify the heat exchange at the droplet–solid interface. Here, we employ high‐speed infrared thermography and a three‐dimensional transient heat conduction COMSOL model to map the dynamic heat flux distribution during droplet impact on a cold superhydrophobic surface. The comprehensive droplet impact experiments for varying surface temperature, droplet size, and impacting height reveal that the heat transfer effectiveness () scales with the dimensionless maximum spreading radius as , deviating from previous semi‐infinite scaling. Interestingly, despite shorter contact times, droplets impacting from higher heights demonstrate increased heat transfer effectiveness due to expanded contact area. The results suggest that reducing droplet spreading time, as opposed to contact time alone, can be a more effective strategy for minimizing heat transfer. The results presented here highlight the importance of both contact area and contact time on the heat exchange between a droplet and a cold superhydrophobic surface.
Investigating low intelligence stereotype threat in adults with developmental dyslexia
Authors: Piotrowska Barbara , Barratt John
Published: April 2024

Stereotype threat (ST) is a phenomenon that leads to decreased test performance and occurs when one deals with added pressure of being judged on the basis of stereotyped group membership. The ST effect has been previously investigated in many contexts but not in individuals with dyslexia who are often stereotyped as less intelligent. Prevalent use of intelligence tests in job selection processes and employment gap between people with dyslexia and those without warrants this investigation. Sixty‐three participants (30 with dyslexia and 33 without dyslexia; mean age = 33.7; SD = 13.7; 47 F, 13 M, three non‐binary) were asked to complete intelligence test typically used in selection processes. All participants were randomly assigned to one of three test instruction conditions: (1) they were told the test was diagnostic of their intelligence (ST triggering instruction); (2) test was a measure of their problem‐solving skills (reduced threat); (3) or they were simply asked to take the test (control). Results showed that participants with dyslexia in ST condition performed poorer than those in other conditions and those in the same condition who did not have dyslexia. This study provides preliminary evidence for diminishing effects of ST in individuals with dyslexia.
Tests of evolutionary and genetic rescue using flour beetles, Tribolium castaneum, experimentally evolved to thermal conditions
Authors: Lewis Rebecca , Pointer Michael D. , Friend Lucy , Gage Matthew J. G. , Spurgin Lewis G.
Published: April 2024

Small, isolated populations are often characterised by low levels of genetic diversity. This can result in inbreeding depression and reduced capacity to adapt to changes in the environment, and therefore higher risk of extinction. However, sometimes these populations can be rescued if allowed to increase in size or if migrants enter, bringing in new allelic variation and thus increasing genetic diversity. This study uses experimental manipulation of population size and migration to quantify their effects on fitness in a challenging environment to better understand genetic rescue. Using small, replicated populations of Tribolium castaneum experimentally evolved to different temperature regimes we tested genetic and demographic rescue, by performing large‐scale manipulations of population size and migration and examining fitness consequences over multiple generations. We measured fitness in high temperature (38°C) thermal lines maintained at their usual ‘small’ population size of N = 100 individuals, and with ‘large’ scaled up duplicates containing N≈10,000 individuals. We compared these large lines with and without migration (m = 0.1) for 10 generations. Additionally, we assessed the effects of outcrossing at an individual level, by comparing fitness of hybrid (thermal line × stock) offspring with within‐line crosses. We found that, at the population level, a rapid increase in the number of individuals in the population resulted in reduced fitness (represented by reproductive output and survival through heatwave conditions), regardless of migration. However, at an individual level, the hybrid offspring of migrants with native individuals generally demonstrated increased longevity in high temperature conditions compared with individuals from thermal selection lines. Overall, these populations showed no evidence that demographic manipulations led to genetic or evolutionary rescue. Following the effects of migration in individuals over several generations may be the next step in unravelling these conflicting results. We discuss these findings in the context of conservation intervention.
Long‐distance dispersal in the short‐distance dispersing house sparrow (Passer domesticus)
Authors: Ranke Peter S. , Pepke Michael L. , Søraker Jørgen S. , David Gabriel , Araya‐Ajoy Yimen G. , Wright Jonathan , Nafstad Ådne M. , Rønning Bernt , Pärn Henrik , Ringsby Thor Harald , Jensen Henrik , Sæther Bernt‐Erik
Published: April 2024

The house sparrow (Passer domesticus) is a small passerine known to be highly sedentary. Throughout a 30‐year capture–mark–recapture study, we have obtained occasional reports of recoveries far outside our main metapopulation study system, documenting unusually long dispersal distances. Our records constitute the highest occurrence of long‐distance dispersal events recorded for this species in Scandinavia. Such long‐distance dispersals radically change the predicted distribution of dispersal distances and connectedness for our study metapopulation. Moreover, it reveals a much greater potential for colonization than formerly recorded for the house sparrow, which is an invasive species across four continents. These rare and occasional long‐distance dispersal events are challenging to document but may have important implications for the genetic composition of small and isolated populations and for our understanding of dispersal ecology and evolution.
Topological Structural Chemistry of Fused Bicycloalkanes Allowing Homeomorphic Conversions
Authors: Setaka Wataru
Published: April 2024

Fused bicycloalkanes have several structures with different orientations of the substituents, such as out,out‐, in,in, and in,out‐structures. Some bicycloalkanes can undergo homeomorphic conversions between certain structures, for instance an out,out‐structure can convert to an in,in‐structure. This homeomorphism can be achieved by one chain passing through the macroring. In this report, topological structural chemistry of fused bicycloalkanes and their analogues allowing homeomorphic conversions were reviewed. Although the concept of homeomorphism in fused bicycloalkanes was proposed 50 years ago, comprehensive research on their structural chemistry is still ongoing. These understandings are highly relevant to the fundamentals of many fields of chemistry, including structural chemistry, theoretical chemistry, natural products chemistry, and materials science.
Hydrothermally Derived Hydrochar from Waste Sawdust for Solar Vapor Generation
Authors: Karen Wong Min Jin , Wang Zhipeng , Chua Bih Lii , Liew Willey Y. H. , Melvin Gan Jet Hong
Published: April 2024

Herein, hydrochar is derived from abundant and low‐cost waste sawdust using hydrothermal carbonization in distilled water with a series of temperatures (150, 200, and 250 °C) and time (2 and 3 h), where the hydrochar characteristics are evaluated toward its application as a solar absorber. The hydrochar‐based solar absorber is fabricated and tested using outdoor solar vapor generation under direct solar radiation with an average solar intensity of 1.26 kW m−2. The solar absorber incorporated with hydrochar is derived at 250 °C for 3 h and displays the best average efficiency (71.35 ± 0.90%) and evaporation rate (1.30 ± 0.04 kg m−2 h−1). The collected clean water salinity (below 300 ppm) and pH (6.72–7.23) from the solar absorber is within the safe drinking water limit by the World Health Organization. Therefore, the hydrochar‐based solar absorber can be used to generate clean water from seawater desalination using solar vapor generation.
Animation‐guided family empowerment program on perioperative care after neurosurgery: A randomized controlled trial for preventing respiratory complications
Authors: Lv Yunfen , Zhao Ziwei , Wu Xinyi , Wang Yao , Qiu Shanshan
Published: April 2024

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of using animation as education material for family empowerment program on perioperative care for caregivers whose children were to undergo neurosurgery.

Methods

A total of 204 caregivers were randomly assigned to either the face‐to‐face oral nursing educated group (Oral Group) or the animation‐assisted nursing educated group (Animated Group). The nursing education primarily focused on instructing caregivers about the manual vibration method. The primary outcome of interest in this study was participants' knowledge level, collected by a 10‐item questionnaire. Secondary outcomes included child patients' clinical data, including hospitalization days, treatments, and signs of pneumonia.

Results

Participants in the Animated Group exhibited significantly higher accuracy in perioperative care knowledge assessment, and patients in this group had a lower chance of requiring atomization therapy compared to the Oral Group.

Conclusions

The animation‐assisted nursing education program effectively enhances pediatric caregivers' knowledge, reduces respiratory complications after surgery, and offers valuable insights for future studies on the use of such programs to instruct caregivers.