bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetically Engineered Membrane‐Coated Nanoparticles for Enhanced Prostate‐Specific Membrane Antigen Targeting and Ferroptosis Treatment of Castration‐Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Li Yu , Li Hongji , Zhang Keying , Xu Chao , Wang Jingwei , Li Zeyu , Zhou Yike , Liu Shaojie , Zhao Xiaolong , Li Zhengxuan , Yang Fa , Hu Wei , Jing Yuming , Wu Peng , Zhang Jingliang , Shi Changhong , Zhang Rui , Jiang Wenkai , Xing Nianzeng , Wen Weihong , Han Donghui , Qin Weijun
Published: July 2024

Conventional androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) targets the androgen receptor (AR) inhibiting prostate cancer (PCa) progression; however, it can eventually lead to recurrence as castration‐resistant PCa (CRPC), which has high mortality rates and lacks effective treatment modalities. The study confirms the presence of high glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) expression, a key regulator of ferroptosis (i.e., iron‐dependent program cell death) in CRPC cells. Therefore, inducing ferroptosis in CRPC cells might be an effective therapeutic modality for CRPC. However, nonspecific uptake of ferroptosis inducers can result in undesirable cytotoxicity in major organs. Thus, to precisely induce ferroptosis in CRPC cells, a genetic engineering strategy is proposed to embed a prostate‐specific membrane antigen (PSMA)‐targeting antibody fragment (gy1) in the macrophage membrane, which is then coated onto mesoporous polydopamine (MPDA) nanoparticles to produce a biomimetic nanoplatform. The results indicate that the membrane‐coated nanoparticles (MNPs) exhibit high specificity and affinity toward CRPC cells. On further encapsulation with the ferroptosis inducers RSL3 and iron ions, MPDA/Fe/RSL3@M‐gy1 demonstrates superior synergistic effects in highly targeted ferroptosis therapy eliciting significant therapeutic efficacy against CRPC tumor growth and bone metastasis without increased cytotoxicity. In conclusion, a new therapeutic strategy is reported for the PSMA‐specific, CRPC‐targeting platform for ferroptosis induction with increased efficacy and safety.
Branched‐Chain Amino Acids Deficiency Promotes Diabetic Neuropathic Pain Through Upregulating LAT1 and Inhibiting Kv1.2 Channel
Authors: Zhou Ze‐Yu , Wang Ji‐Ying , Li Zhi‐Xiao , Zheng Hong‐Li , Zhou Ya‐Nan , Huang Li‐Na , Wang Li‐Juan , Ding Xiao‐Wei , Sun Xin , Cai Ke , Zhao Rui , Shi Yan , Chen Alex F. , Pan Zhi‐Qiang , Cao Jing , Lin Fu‐Qing , Zhao Jian‐Yuan
Published: July 2024

Diabetic neuropathic pain (DNP), one of the most common complications of diabetes, is characterized by bilateral symmetrical distal limb pain and substantial morbidity. To compare the differences  is aimed at serum metabolite levels between 81 DNP and 73 T2DM patients without neuropathy and found that the levels of branched‐chain amino acids (BCAA) are significantly lower in DNP patients than in T2DM patients. In high‐fat diet/low‐dose streptozotocin (HFD/STZ)‐induced T2DM and leptin receptor‐deficient diabetic (db/db) mouse models, it is verified that BCAA deficiency aggravated, whereas BCAA supplementation alleviated DNP symptoms. Mechanistically, using a combination of RNA sequencing of mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) tissues and label‐free quantitative proteomic analysis of cultured cells, it is found that BCAA deficiency activated the expression of L‐type amino acid transporter 1 (LAT1) through ATF4, which is reversed by BCAA supplementation. Abnormally upregulated LAT1 reduced Kv1.2 localization to the cell membrane, and inhibited Kv1.2 channels, thereby increasing neuronal excitability and causing neuropathy. Furthermore, intraperitoneal injection of the LAT1 inhibitor, BCH, alleviated DNP symptoms in mice, confirming that BCAA‐deficiency‐induced LAT1 activation contributes to the onset of DNP. These findings provide fresh insights into the metabolic differences between DNP and T2DM, and the development of approaches for the management of DNP.
In‐Plane Overdamping and Out‐Plane Localized Vibration Contribute to Ultralow Lattice Thermal Conductivity of Zintl Phase KCdSb
Authors: Guo Kai , Zhang Juan , Yu Xiaotong , Jiang Yuanxin , Li Yang , Zeng Yuqi , Lian Ruixiao , Yang Xinxin , Li Shuankui , Luo Jun , Li Wen , Zhang Hao
Published: July 2024

Zintl phases typically exhibit low lattice thermal conductivity, which are extensively investigated as promising thermoelectric candidates. While the significance of Zintl anionic frameworks in electronic transport properties is widely recognized, their roles in thermal transport properties have often been overlooked. This study delves into KCdSb as a representative case, where the [CdSb4/4]− tetrahedrons not only impact charge transfer but also phonon transport. The phonon velocity and mean free path, are heavily influenced by the bonding distance and strength of the Zintl anions Cd and Sb, considering the three acoustic branches arising from their vibrations. Furthermore, the weakly bound Zintl cation K exhibits localized vibration behaviors, resulting in strong coupling between the high‐lying acoustic branch and the low‐lying optical branch, further impeding phonon diffusion. The calculations reveal that grain boundaries also contribute to the low lattice thermal conductivity of KCdSb through medium‐frequency phonon scattering. These combined factors create a glass‐like thermal transport behavior, which is advantageous for improving the thermoelectric merit of zT. Notably, a maximum zT of 0.6 is achieved for K0.84Na0.16CdSb at 712 K. The study offers both intrinsic and extrinsic strategies for developing high‐efficiency thermoelectric Zintl materials with extremely low lattice thermal conductivity.
Materials Containing Single‐, Di‐, Tri‐, and Multi‐Metal Atoms Bonded to C, N, S, P, B, and O Species as Advanced Catalysts for Energy, Sensor, and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Tiwari Jitendra N. , Kumar Krishan , Safarkhani Moein , Umer Muhammad , Vilian A. T. Ezhil , Beloqui Ana , Bhaskaran Gokul , Huh Yun Suk , Han Young‐Kyu
Published: July 2024

Modifying the coordination or local environments of single‐, di‐, tri‐, and multi‐metal atom (SMA/DMA/TMA/MMA)‐based materials is one of the best strategies for increasing the catalytic activities, selectivity, and long‐term durability of these materials. Advanced sheet materials supported by metal atom‐based materials have become a critical topic in the fields of renewable energy conversion systems, storage devices, sensors, and biomedicine owing to the maximum atom utilization efficiency, precisely located metal centers, specific electron configurations, unique reactivity, and precise chemical tunability. Several sheet materials offer excellent support for metal atom‐based materials and are attractive for applications in energy, sensors, and medical research, such as in oxygen reduction, oxygen production, hydrogen generation, fuel production, selective chemical detection, and enzymatic reactions. The strong metal–metal and metal–carbon with metal–heteroatom (i.e., N, S, P, B, and O) bonds stabilize and optimize the electronic structures of the metal atoms due to strong interfacial interactions, yielding excellent catalytic activities. These materials provide excellent models for understanding the fundamental problems with multistep chemical reactions. This review summarizes the substrate structure‐activity relationship of metal atom‐based materials with different active sites based on experimental and theoretical data. Additionally, the new synthesis procedures, physicochemical characterizations, and energy and biomedical applications are discussed. Finally, the remaining challenges in developing efficient SMA/DMA/TMA/MMA‐based materials are presented.
Multilayer Fluorine‐Free MoBTx MBene with Hydrophilic Structural‐Modulating for the Fabrication of a Low‐Resistance and High‐Resolution Humidity Sensor
Authors: Liu Yong , Tian Yumiao , Liu Fangmeng , Gu Tianyi , Wang Bin , He Junming , Wang Chen , Meng Xing , Sun Peng , Lu Geyu
Published: July 2024

2D transition metal borides (MBenes) with abundant surface terminals hold great promise in molecular sensing applications. However, MBenes from etching with fluorine‐containing reagents present inert ‐fluorine groups on the surface, which hinders their sensing capability. Herein, the multilayer fluorine‐free MoBTx MBene (where Tx represents O, OH, and Cl) with hydrophilic structure is prepared by a hydrothermal‐assisted hydrochloric acid etching strategy based on guidance from the first‐principle calculations. Significantly, the fluorine‐free MoBTx‐based humidity sensor is fabricated and demonstrates low resistance and excellent humidity performance, achieving a response of 90% to 98%RH and a high resolution of 1%RH at room temperature. By combining the experimental results with the first‐principles calculations, the interactions between MoBTx and H2O, including the adsorption and intercalation of H2O, are understood first in depth. Finally, the portable humidity early warning system for real‐time monitoring and early warning of infant enuresis and back sweating illustrates its potential for humidity sensing applications. This work not only provides guidance for preparation of fluorine‐free MBenes, but also contributes to advancing their exploration in sensing applications.
Filtered reaction rate and interphase mass transfer models in reactive gas‐solid flows
Authors: Huang Zheqing , Zhang Zheng , Wang Lingxue , Zhou Qiang
Published: July 2024

This work pursues the closure for the effective reaction rate based on fine‐grid two‐fluid model (TFM) simulations in reactive gas‐solid flows. It is found that the mesoscale mechanism in the solid‐catalyzed reaction is constrained by the kinetic regime (KR) and the external mass transfer‐controlled regimes (EMTR). Thus, a filtered reaction rate model ηsubgrid considered two different regimes is proposed. The mesoscale effectiveness factor proposed in previous work is adopted in KR. A filtered interphase mass transfer model QM, which is constructed by analogy to the interphase heat transfer model, is used in EMTR. ηsubgrid shows a good predictability in two regimes via a priori test. The fidelity of ηsubgrid is also assessed via a filtered TFM simulation. The results indicate that the simulations incorporating corrections for the drag force and reaction rate yield better agreement with the fine‐grid simulations for both mass fraction and reaction rate profiles.
Linking the macroclimatic niche of native lithophytic ferns and their prevalence in urban environments
Authors: Reichgelt Tammo
Published: July 2024

Premise

Vertical surfaces in urban environments represent a potential expansion of niche space for lithophytic fern species. There are, however, few records of differential success rates of fern species in urban environments.

Methods

The occurrence rates of 16 lithophytic fern species native to the northeastern USA in 14 biomes, including four urban environments differentiated by percentage of impervious surfaces, were evaluated. In addition, the natural macroclimatic ranges of these species were analyzed to test whether significant differences existed in climatic tolerance between species that occur in urban environments and species that do not.

Results

Three species appear to preferentially occur in urban environments, two species may facultatively occur in urban environments, and the remaining 11 species preferentially occur in nondeveloped rural environments. The natural range of fern species that occur in urban environments had higher summer temperatures than the range of species that do not, whereas other macroclimatic variables, notably winter temperatures and precipitation, were less important or insignificant.

Conclusions

Vertical surfaces in urban environments may represent novel niche space for some native lithophytic fern species in northeastern USA. However, success in this environment depends, in part, on tolerance of the urban heat island effect, especially heating of impervious surfaces in summer.
A unique case of hyperammonemia due to CA5A deficiency: Impact of coexisting gene mutations, pseudogene, and microdeletion
Authors: Mathew Rohan Peter , Ranya Raghavendra Prashanth , Disha Biradar , Dalal Ashwin , Govindaraj Periyasamy
Published: July 2024

Carbonic anhydrase 5A (CA5A) belongs to a family of carbonic anhydrases which are zinc metalloenzymes involved in the reversible hydration of CO2 to bicarbonate. Mutations in CA5A are very rare and known to cause Carbonic anhydrase 5A deficiency (CA5AD), an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism characterized clinically by acute onset of encephalopathy in infancy or early childhood. CA5A also has two very identical pseudogenes whose interference may result in compromised accuracy in targeted sequencing. We report a unique case of CA5AD caused by compound heterozygous variant (NM_001739.2: c.721G>A: p.Glu241Lys & NM_001739.2: c.619‐3420_c.774 + 502del4078bp) in an infant in order to expand the phenotypic spectrum and underscore the impact of pseudogenes, which can introduce complexities in molecular genetic analysis.
Advances in noncoding RNA in children allergic rhinitis
Authors: Li Shuman , Cui Hongtao , Lu Huina , Zheng Shan , Yuan Chao
Published: July 2024

Background: A chronic condition that significantly reduces a child's quality of life is allergic rhinitis (AR). The environment and allergens that the body is regularly exposed to can cause inflammatory and immunological reactions, which can change the expression of certain genes Epigenetic changes are closely linked to the onset and severity of allergy disorders according to mounting amounts of data. Noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNA molecules that cannot be converted into polypeptides. The three main categories of ncRNAs include microRNAs (miRNAs), long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), and circular RNAs (circRNAs). NcRNAs play a crucial role in controlling gene expression and contribute to the development of numerous human diseases. Methods: Articles are selected based on Pubmed's literature review and the author's personal knowledge. The largest and highest quality studies were included. The search selection is not standardized. Results: Recent findings indicate that various categories of ncRNAs play distinct yet interconnected roles and actively contribute to intricate gene regulatory networks. Conclusion: This article demonstrates the significance and progress of ncRNAs in children's AR. The database covers three key areas: miRNAs, lncRNAs, and circRNAs. Additionally, potential avenues for future research to facilitate the practical application of ncRNAs as therapeutic targets and biomarkers will be explore.
Synthesis of oxygen‐rich functional groups biochar for high‐efficiency adsorption of herbicide and as a potential carrier for pH‐responsive slow release
Authors: Chen Yufeng , Zhu Fangge , Jiang Sijie , Shi Guorong , Zhong Mei'e
Published: July 2024

To improve the utilization rate of herbicides and reduce their environmental residues, it is urgent to develop a simple and low‐cost method to prepare slow‐release pesticides. In this study, a biochar (280CPFe) with a high surface area and rich oxygen‐containing functional groups was synthesized by low temperature (280°C) boiling strategy, which was used as a carrier to prepare pH‐responsive slow‐release herbicide. The obtained biochar has a high adsorption capacity of 153.59 mg·g−1 for quinclorac (QNC). The release rates of QNC‐280CPFe are 21%, 56%, and 90% at the initial pH of 3, 5, and 11, respectively. The controlled release behavior of QNC‐280CPFe is related to its adsorption mechanism, in which the pore filling and functional group adsorption are mainly responsible for the adsorption of QNC on 280CPFe. Compared with QNC alone, QNC‐280CPFe slow‐release herbicide has a good control effect on Barnyard grass but does not affect the normal growth of rice. Therefore, this study provides a simple, low‐cost cost, and environmentally friendly biochar carrier for preparing slow‐release herbicide, improving its utilization rate and reducing its environmental pollution risk.
Synthesis of ZrO2‐NdO‐based mixed nanomaterial using green capping agent and its functionalization as electrode material for energy devices: Pseudo capacitors and water splitting
Authors: Azhar Sundus , Ahmad Khuram Shahzad , Abrahams Isaac , Lin Wang , Gupta Ram K. , Albaqami Munirah D. , Mohammad Saikh , Gul Mahwash Mahar
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the environmentally friendly synthesis of ZrO2‐NdO mixed nanomaterial using green reducing and capping agents derived from the plant Amaranthus viridis. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of the mixed nanomaterial, revealing an optical band gap of 2.5 eV. The morphology was characterized by spherical‐shaped particles with an average size ranging from 66 to 77 nm. The synthesized ZrO2‐NdO mixed nanomaterial was evaluated for its potential application as an electrode material in energy devices, specifically for pseudocapacitors and water splitting studies. Electrochemical performance was assessed using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge–discharge (GCD) techniques. Notably, a specific capacitance of 573.5 F/g was achieved through CV at a scan rate of 2 mV/s. Fabricated electrocatalyst was further analyzed for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and the results showed better over potential value of 164 mV for HER studies. The stability analysis further endorsed the large‐scale commercialization possibility of ZrO‐NdO‐based electrode material.
A comprehensive review on active chain density evaluation from swelling and insights for better accounting for insoluble particles
Authors: Delahaye Grégoire , Redon Adrien , Ruellan Benoît , Jeanneau Isabelle , Rosselgong Julien , Guillaume Sophie M. , Le Cam Jean‐Benoît
Published: July 2024

The present study provides a state of the art on methods for evaluating active chain density of rubbers from swelling experiments. This review focuses more particularly on the effects of components that are known to limit the swelling, and which typically results in an overestimation of the active chain density. These components are commonly considered as insoluble. Different corrections dealing with the two principal insoluble components, namely zinc oxide (Zn0) and carbon black (CB) filler, are thoroughly investigated. A comparative study on the same natural rubber (NR), either filled and unfilled, vulcanized with three different vulcanization systems, is performed to evaluate the relevance of each predictive approach. The results obtained highlight their respective limitations. In particular, it is shown that the swelling ratio of unfilled and filled natural rubbers are linearly related, suggesting that fillers have no significant effect on the overall number of cross‐links formed during vulcanization. As a result, we propose a unified approach for correcting the ZnO content for unfilled NR and both the ZnO and CB contents for filled NR. By comparing with results issued from uniaxial tensile tests, it is shown that the use of a mechanical response is a relevant alternative for determining the active chain density.
Α {Silk@Gallic‐Acid} hybrid material with controllable antioxidant hydrogen‐atom‐transfer activity
Authors: Theofanous Annita , Deligiannakis Yiannis , Louloudi Maria
Published: July 2024

Silk fiber, often acclaimed as the pinnacle of textile materials, finds contemporary applications in the textile industry, health, and cosmetics. Gallic acid (GA) is a well‐established natural antioxidant. In the present study, a novel hybrid material SFd@GA was conceptualized and produced via surface grafting of GA onto degummed silk‐fibers (SFd). Successful covalent‐grafting of gallic acid onto the silk fabric surface was confirmed through Fourier‐transform infrared, Raman, thermogravimetric analysis (TG‐DTA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy demonstrates that gallic moieties grafted on SFd@GA retain their radical/redox activity. The antioxidant capacity of the hybrid material SFd@GA was validated by quantitative analysis of antioxidant hydrogen‐atom‐transfer (HAT) to DPPH radicals. Our data reveal a 550% increase in antioxidant‐HAT activity of SFd@GA versus natural intact silk fiber, and a 1400% increase in antioxidant‐HAT activity compared to the degummed silk fiber. The paramount discovery of the present work lies in the capacity for repeated utilization of the hybrid material SFd@GA, without any discernible compromise in its antioxidant‐HAT activity. Specifically, we show that SFd@GA can be employed for at least 15 consecutive cycles, retaining >98% of its HAT efficiency, for up to many days of storage under ambient conditions. We discuss this expositional performance via the controllable Hat‐activity process that we propose.
How do Photoswitchable Lipids Influence the Intercalation of Anticancer Drug in Lipid Membrane? Investigation using Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Kumar Abhay , Maiti Archita , Verma Sahil , Daschakraborty Snehasis
Published: July 2024

Photoswitchable lipids, particularly azobenzene‐derivatized phosphatidylcholine (azoPC) lipids, offer a unique mechanism for reversible modification of membrane properties upon exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Through all‐atom molecular dynamics simulations, we explore how UV irradiation‐induced trans‐to‐cis photoisomerization (TCPI) of AzoPC lipid influences the structure and dynamics of a lipid membrane, composed of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) and cholesterol with similar composition to that of the DOXIL®. Structural and dynamical analyses of two states of the membrane, ‘dark’ state (containing cis‐azoPC lipid) and ‘bright’ state (containing 85 % cis‐azoPC and 15 % trans‐azoPC lipids) reveal that the TCPI reduces membrane packing density and increases diffusivity of lipids. We have demonstrated an enhanced intercalation of doxorubicin (DOX), an anticancer drug, in the ‘bright’ state of the membrane compared to that in the ‘dark’ state. This study – elucidating the complex interplay between lipid composition, photoswitching, and lipid‐drug interactions – contributes to the design of lipid‐based systems for targeted drug delivery and biomedical applications.
Transparent Silica Aerogels: Optical and Chemical Design, Controlled Synthesis, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Xie Jiangtao , Wang Leyi , Li Guangyong , Liao Jianhe , Zhang Xuetong
Published: July 2024

Transparent silica aerogel, serving as one typical porous and transparent material, possesses various unique features (e. g., large amounts of pores and interfaces, super‐lightweight, super thermal insulation, low refractive index similar to gas), and it has attracted great attention in the fields of science, technology, engineering, art, and others. Transparency is one important evaluation index of transparent silica aerogel, and it was influenced by various factors such as raw materials, sol‐gel reactions, phase separation, and drying methods. The structure design and fabrication of transparent silica aerogel is one huge and fine engineering. In this review, the optical/chemical guidance and design for the preparation of transparent silica aerogels are discussed, and typical applications, such as Cherenkov detectors, solar energy collection, lighting systems, and transparent fabric, were also discussed. Finally, a future outlook on the opportunities and challenges of transparent silica aerogels was proposed.
Tuning the Mechanical Properties of 3D‐Printed Objects by Mixing Chain Transfer Agents in Norrish Type I Photoinitiated RAFT Polymerization
Authors: Yuan Zhihan , Li Guangliang , Yang Chongyang , Zhu Wenxuan , Li Jiajia , Zhu Jian
Published: July 2024

Photoinduced 3D printing via photocontrolled reversible–deactivation radical polymerization (photoRDRP) techniques has emerged as a robust technique for creating polymeric materials. However, methods for precisely adjusting the mechanical properties of these materials remain limited. In this study, we present a facile approach for adjusting the mechanical properties of 3D‐printed objects by adjusting the polymer dispersity within a Norrish type I photoinitiated reversible addition‐fragmentation chain transfer (NTI‐RAFT) polymerization‐based 3D printing process. We investigated the effects of varying the concentrations and molar ratios of trithiocarbonate (BTPA) and xanthate (EXEP) on the mechanical properties of the printed materials. Our findings demonstrate that increased concentrations of RAFT agents or higher proportions of the more active BTPA lead to a decrease in Young's modulus and glass transition temperatures, along with an increase in elongation at break, which can be attributed to the enhanced homogeneity of the polymer network. Using a commercial LCD printer, the NTI‐RAFT‐based 3D printing system effectively produced materials with tailored mechanical properties, highlighting its potential for practical applications.
Analyzing complex fractional order systems physical phenomena in IOPI controller design
Authors: Şenol Bilal , Demiroğlu Uğur
Published: July 2024

The Fractional Complex Order Plant model, which has lately gained popularity in applied physics and control systems, is the main subject of this study. The major contribution of this study to the literature is the discussion of the physical phenomena of complex plant models and how they affect the stability and robustness of the systems. Because the Fractional Complex Order Plant model is the most general mathematical form, other plant models covering the Integer Order Plant and the Fractional Order Plant can be easily created with this benefit. The proposed approach using the classical Proportional Integral controller which is recalled as the Integer‐Order PI controller in this paper gives the calculation equations of the physical alterations of plants having integer, fractional, and complex orders. Along with the visuals and with the aid of simulations, the consequences of the parameters on the system are described. Additionally, the advantages and disadvantages of the proposed controller designs for each of the three plant species are discussed.
Effect of tannic acid on doxorubicin‐induced cellular stress: Expression levels of heat shock genes in rat spleen
Authors: Kizir Duygu , Karaman Melike , Demir Yeliz , Ceylan Hamid
Published: July 2024

Doxorubicin (DOX), an anthracycline group antibiotic, has been extensively employed as a potent chemotherapeutic agent for treating solid and hematopoietic tumors in humans. Amid exposure to diverse stress conditions, living organisms swiftly initiate the synthesis of heat shock proteins (HSPs), a set of highly conserved proteins. Tannic acid (TA) has garnered increasing study attention due to its special chemical properties, health benefits, and wide availability. This study's primary aim is to elucidate the impact of DOX and TA on the expression levels of Hsp90aa1, Hspa1a, Hspa4, and Hspa5 in the spleen tissues of rats. Sprague Dawley rats (Rattus norvegicus, male, 9–10 weeks old, 180 ± 20 g) were randomly divided into 4 groups: control, DOX (30 mg/kg cumulative), TA (50 mg/kg), and DOX + TA (5 mg/kg and 50 mg/kg, respectively). Subsequently, spleen tissues were collected from rats, and complementary DNA libraries were generated after the application process. The quantitative real‐time PCR method was used to detect and quantify the mRNA expression changes of the Hsp90aa1, Hspa1a, Hspa4, and Hspa5 genes our results showed that the mRNA expressions of the targeted genes were up‐regulated in rat spleen tissues exposed to DOX. However, this increase was remarkably suppressed by TA treatment. These findings suggest that TA may serve as a protective agent, mitigating the toxic effects of DOX in the rat spleen.
Levodopa modulates semantic fluency and uniqueness in non‐demented patients with progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Ma Jinghong , Zhang Guanyu , Zhao Zhenzhen , Chan Piu , Ye Zheng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Semantic fluency is the ability to name items from a given category within a limited time, which relies on semantic knowledge, working memory, and executive function. Similar to patients with Parkinson's disease (PD), patients with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) scored lower than healthy adults in the well‐established semantic fluency test. However, it is unclear how unique are the produced words. This study examined the relationship between semantic fluency and words’ uniqueness in patients with PSP.

Methods

Twenty‐seven patients with PSP Richardson's syndrome (PSP‐RS), 37 patients with PD, and 41 healthy controls (HC) performed a standard semantic fluency test (animals), and their verbal responses were audio‐recorded. We used the uniqueness to reflect the ability to produce both original and effective work, that is, creativity.

Results

The PSP‐RS group produced fewer correct words and fewer unique words than the PD and HC groups. Moreover, the correlation between fluency and uniqueness was positive in the HC and PD groups but negative in the PSP‐RS group. Importantly, the actual levodopa dose was positively correlated with the fluency but negatively correlated with the uniqueness in PSP‐RS. The PSP‐RS patients who took a greater dose of levodopa tended to produce more correct words but fewer unique words.

Conclusions

These results suggested that levodopa may modulate semantic fluency and uniqueness in the early stages of PSP‐RS.
Subsequent maternal sleep deprivation aggravates cognitive impairment by modulating hippocampal neuroinflammatory responses and synaptic function in maternal isoflurane‐exposed offspring mice
Authors: Zhang Meng‐Ying , Wei Ru‐Meng , Jing Jun , Huang Shu‐Ren , Qiu Gao‐Lin , Xia Xiao‐Qiong , Zhang Yue‐Ming , Li Yuan‐Hai
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Pregnant women may need to undergo non‐obstetric surgery under general anesthesia owing to medical needs, and pregnant women frequently experience sleep disturbances during late gestation. Preclinical studies demonstrated that maternal isoflurane exposure (MISO) or maternal sleep deprivation (MSD) contributed to cognitive impairments in offspring. Research studies in mice have revealed that SD can aggravate isoflurane‐induced cognitive deficits. However, it remains unclear whether MSD aggravates MISO‐induced cognitive deficits in offspring. The purpose of this research was to explore the combined effects of MSD and MISO on offspring cognitive function and the role of neuroinflammation and synaptic function in the process of MSD + MISO.

Methods

Pregnant mice were exposed to 1.4% isoflurane by inhalation for 4 h on gestational day (GD) 14. Dams were then subjected to SD for 6 h (12:00–18:00 h) during GD15–21. At 3 months of age, the offspring mice were subjected to the Morris water maze test to assess cognitive function. Then the levels of inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory markers and synaptic function‐related proteins were assessed using molecular biology methods.

Results

The results of this study demonstrated that MISO led to cognitive dysfunction, an effect that was aggravated by MSD. In addition, MSD exacerbated the maternal isoflurane inhalation, leading to an enhancement in the expression levels of interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha and a reduction in the hippocampal levels of IL‐10, synaptophysin, post‐synaptic density‐95, growth‐associated protein‐43, and brain‐derived neurotrophic factor.

Conclusion

Our findings revealed that MSD aggravated the cognitive deficits induced by MISO in male offspring mice, and these results were associated with neuroinflammation and alternations in synaptic function.
Recent Computer‐Aided Studies on Herbicides: A Short Review
Authors: Milićević Jelena , Petrović Stefan , Tošić Snežana , Vrecl Milka , Arsić Biljana
Published: July 2024

Current industrial herbicides have a negative impact on the environment and have widespread resistance, so computational studies on their properties, elimination, and overcoming resistance can be helpful. On the other hand, developing new herbicides, especially bioherbicides, is slow and costly. Therefore, computational studies that guide the design and search for new herbicides that exist in various plant sources, can alleviate the pain associated with the many obstacles. This review summarizes for the first time the most recent studies on both aspects of herbicides over 10 years.
Dual‐Targeting of the HER2 Cancer Receptor with an Antibody‐Directed Enzyme and a Nanobody‐Guided MMAE Prodrug Scaffold
Authors: Smidt Jakob Melgaard , Märcher Anders , Skaanning Mads Koch , El‐Chami Kassem , Teodori Laura , Omer Marjan , Kjems Jørgen , Gothelf Kurt V.
Published: July 2024

Antibody‐enzyme conjugates have shown potential as tissue‐specific prodrug activators by antibody‐directed enzyme prodrug therapy (ADEPT), but the approach met challenges clinically due to systemic drug release. Here, we report a novel dual‐targeting ADEPT system (DuADEPT) which is based on active cancer receptor targeting of both a trastuzumab‐sialidase conjugate (Tz‐Sia) and a highly potent sialidase‐activated monomethyl auristatin E (MMAE) prodrug scaffold. The scaffold is based on a four‐way junction of the artificial nucleic acid analog acyclic (L)‐threoninol nucleic acid ((L)‐aTNA) which at the ends of its four arms carries one nanobody targeting HER2 and three copies of the prodrug. Dual‐targeting of the constructs to two proximal epitopes of HER2 was shown by flow cytometry, and a dual‐targeted enzymatic drug release assay revealed cytotoxicity upon prodrug activation specifically for HER2‐positive cancer cells. The specific delivery and activation of prodrugs in this way could potentially be used to decrease systemic side effects and increase drug efficacy, and utilization of Tz‐Sia provides an opportunity to combine the local chemotherapeutic effect of the DuADEPT with an anticancer immune response.
Generalized lymphadenopathy in the presence of acute Epstein–Barr virus infection as the initial manifestation of systemic lupus erythematous: A case report
Authors: Jazi Kimia , Faraji Zahra , Aghaei Fateme , Shahhamzeh Alireza , Tabaraii Reihane , Masoumi Maryam
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Clinicians should carefully consider generalized lymphadenopathy, particularly post viral infections, as one of the possible systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) first signs regarding unusual joint involvements such as sacroiliitis. Late diagnosis of this autoimmune inflammatory disease, could lead to irreversible morbidity and higher mortality.

Lymphadenopathy could represent various etiologies, including infections, malignancies, and rheumatologic diseases. SLE is known as the great mimicker which could be presented with different first manifestations. We report a 42‐year‐old woman in the acute phase of Epstein–Barr infection, admitted with polyarticular peripheral arthritis, sacroiliitis, and generalized lymphadenopathy. She had no similar history or taken unpasteurized dairy. Nodes were soft, mobile, and tender without skin change on top. During the process, she was diagnosed with SLE and discharged with prednisolone 30 mg/day and hydroxychloroquine 400 mg/day. After 2 weeks of follow‐up, all lymphadenopathy and symptoms were diminished. This case underscores the thousand faces innate of SLE. Clinical awareness would lead to an accurate diagnosis and early intervention.
Ni/Hierarchical Zeolites Derived from Zeolites@Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs) Composites for Furfural Hydrogenation
Authors: Maineawklang Narasiri , Iadrat Ploychanok , Pornsetmetakul Peerapol , Prasertsab Anittha , Chaipornchalerm Peeranat , Salakhum Saros , Tantisriyanurak Supakorn , Rodaum Chadatip , Wattanakit Chularat
Published: July 2024

Furfural hydrogenation is one of the most important reactions for the transformation of biomass‐derived resources into high value‐added chemicals. To achieve a highly efficient catalytic activity of the reaction, catalysts with a high dispersion of metal nanoparticles (NPs) on solid supports are required. However, the development of highly efficient and stable catalysts is still challenging. Herein, the highly dispersed nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) supported on the hierarchical ZSM‐5 nanosheets (Z5‐NS) derived from the hierarchical ZSM‐5 nanosheets@NiAl‐layered double hydroxides (LDHs) composites were successfully fabricated. Remarkably, the fabricated Z5‐NS/Ni catalyst exhibited a high furfural conversion of 85 % with a yield of furfuryl alcohol of 60 %. This work illustrates the fabrication of highly metal dispersed on solid supports with high metal loading, which can enhance the catalytic performances in the hydrogenation of biomass‐derived compounds.
Inverse Isotope Kinetic Effect of the Charge Transfer Reactions of Ar+ with H2O and D2O
Authors: Zhi Yaya , Guo Qiang , Zheng Mengqi , Hu Jie , Tian Shan Xi
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen isotopic effect, as the key to revealing the origin of Earth's water, arises from the H/D mass difference and quantum dynamics at the transition state of reaction. The ion‐molecule charge‐exchange reaction between water (H2O/D2O) and argon ion (Ar+) proceeds spontaneously and promptly, where there is no transition‐state or intermediate complex. In this energetically resonant process, we find an inverse kinetic isotope effect (KIE) leading to the higher charge transfer rate for D2O, by the velocity map imaging measurements of H2O+/D2O+ products. Using the average dipole orientation capture model, we estimate the orientation angles of C2v axis of H2O/D2O relative to the Ar+ approaching direction and attribute to the difference of stereodynamics. According to the long‐distance Landau‐Zener charge transfer model, this inverse KIE could be also attributed to the density‐of‐state difference of molecular bending motion between H2O+ and D2O+ around the resonant charge transfer.
Dimerization of Full‐Length Aβ‐42 Peptide: A Comparison of Different Force Fields and Water Models
Authors: Paul Srijita , Biswas Parbati
Published: July 2024

Among the two isoforms of amyloid‐β i. e., Aβ‐40 and Aβ‐42, Aβ‐42 is more toxic due to its increased aggregation propensity. The oligomerization pathways of amyloid‐β may be investigated by studying its dimerization process at an atomic level. Intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) lack well‐defined structures and are associated with numerous neurodegenerative disorders. Molecular dynamics simulations of these proteins are often limited by the choice of parameters due to inconsistencies in the empirically developed protein force fields and water models. To evaluate the accuracy of recently developed force fields for IDPs, we study the dimerization of full‐length Aβ‐42 in aqueous solution with three different combinations of AMBER force field parameters and water models such as ff14SB/TIP3P, ff19SB/OPC, and ff19SB/TIP3P using classical MD and Umbrella Sampling method. This work may be used as a benchmark to compare the performance of different force fields for the simulations of IDPs.
The Relationship of Rumination, Worry and OCD Symptoms During Technology Supported Mindfulness Therapy for OCD
Authors: Hawley Lance L. , Lisi Diana M. , Richter Margaret A. , Selchen Steven , Rector Neil A.
Published: July 2024

Background

In this study, we re‐examined data from a previous randomized controlled trial investigating ‘technology supported mindfulness’ (TSM)—an 8‐week treatment intervention for individuals experiencing OCD. The current analysis involves an examination of the longitudinal relationships between rumination, worry and OCD symptom changes during mindfulness treatment, in comparison to a waitlist control.

Methods

Participants experiencing OCD (n = 71) were randomly assigned to 8 weeks of (1) TSM or (2) waitlist control. We tested the extent to which rumination (using the Ruminative Response Scale) and worry (using the Penn State Worry Questionnaire) are associated with OCD symptom changes during the acute phase of treatment, concurrently (i.e., within the same longitudinal model).

Results

Generalized linear model (GLM) results indicated a significant time (week 1 vs. week 8) by condition interaction involving decreased rumination in the TSM condition: F(1, 61) = 13.37, p = 0.001, partial η2 = 0.18 and observed power = 0.94. A second GLM demonstrated decreased worry in the TSM condition: F(1, 69) = 37.34, p = 0.001, partial η2 = 0.35 and observed power = 0.83. Longitudinal ‘latent difference’ structural equation analyses demonstrated a cross‐lagged association between worry (but not rumination) and OCD symptom changes.

Conclusions

Individuals in the TSM condition experienced greater reductions in rumination and worry during 8 weeks of TSM treatment compared to the waitlist control, and reduced worry predicted subsequent OCD symptom reduction.
The Mediating Role of Emotion Dysregulation in the Association Between Perfectionism and Eating Psychopathology Symptoms
Authors: Mansueto G. , Sassaroli S. , Ruggiero G. M. , Caselli G. , Nocita R. , Spada M. M. , Palmieri S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This study explored the possible mediating role of emotion dysregulation in the association between perfectionism and eating psychopathology symptoms.

Method

One hundred forty‐two outpatients with eating disorders (EDs) were enrolled. Perfectionism, emotion dysregulation, ED psychopathology, anxious and depressive symptoms were assessed. Correlation, mediation and 95% bias corrected and accelerated (BCa CI) bootstrapped analyses were run.

Results

Emotion dysregulation was found to mediate the association between concern over mistakes perfectionism and restraint (indirect effect: 0.093, BCa CI: 0.001–0.02, adjusted R2 = 0.3324, p < 0.001), shape concern (indirect effect: 0.0130, BCa CI: 0.004–0.03, adjusted R2 = p < 0.001) and weight concern (indirect effect: 0.0142, BCa CI: 0.004–0.03, adjusted R2 = 0.2986, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Among ED outpatients, emotion dysregulation may be involved in the association between concern over mistakes perfectionism and persistence of eating psychopathology symptoms. Emotion dysregulation could be considered as possible therapeutic target to reduce the persistence, and severity, of eating psychopathology symptoms among ED patients with concern over mistakes perfectionism.
On the Rapid Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide via Ultrasound‐Promoted Eco‐Friendly Reduction Approach and Its Effects on Physicochemical Properties
Authors: Lam Shuen , Wang Fei , Yeap Swee Pin , Teng Kah Hou , Shaw Andy , Karunamoothei Vijayakumar , Khosravi Vahid , Liu Chengyi
Published: July 2024

The common synthesis approach of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using toxic reducing agents poses a threat to environmental pollution. This study used banana peel extract as a green reducing agent for the synthesis of rGO. Ultrasonication was assimilated to expedite the synthesis process. For comparison, rGO was also produced by reducing GO with hydrazine treatment under conventional stirring. Both morphological (SEM) and physicochemical (FTIR and XRD) studies have revealed that banana peel extract can reduce GO to rGO, although its reducing effect is much weaker compared to hydrazine. Despite this, the rGO produced using banana peel extract with the assimilation of ultrasonication technique has a greater interlayer spacing than that formed under the conventional stirring method. In terms of electrical properties, the electrical conductance of hydrazine‐produced rGO (5.69×10−6 S) is higher than the banana peel extract‐produced rGO (3.55×10−6 S–4.56×10−6 S). Interestingly, it was found that most of the rGO produced by banana peel extract under ultrasound assistance has higher or comparable electrical conductance compared to the rGO produced by banana peel extract under stirring method. This implies the feasibility of using short‐period ultrasound to replace conventional stirring in rGO synthesis.
Eating Disorder and Other Psychiatric Hospitalizations in New Zealand During the COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Hansen Sara J. , McLay Jessica , Menkes David B.
Published: July 2024

Objective

An unprecedented rise in eating disorder presentations has been documented in several countries during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We explored this phenomenon by analyzing nationwide psychiatric admissions over 5 years, controlling for demographic variables.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed all hospitalizations in New Zealand with a primary psychiatric diagnosis from 2017 to 2021, using Poisson regression to calculate admission rates by diagnosis, before and during the pandemic. Using Fisher's exact test and Poisson modeling, national data were validated against a manually collected sample of eating disorder admissions.

Results

Eating disorder admissions rose significantly during the pandemic (RR 1.48, p < 0.0001), while other diagnoses remained unchanged or decreased slightly. Anorexia nervosa in 10 to 19‐year‐old females drove increases, with persistent elevations noted in the 10–14 age group. Pandemic‐associated increases were more striking for Māori (RR 2.55), the indigenous Polynesian population, compared with non‐Māori (RR 1.43).

Conclusions

Eating disorder hospital presentations increased during the COVID‐19 pandemic, while other psychiatric presentations to hospital remained relatively unchanged. Possible drivers include disrupted routines, barriers to healthcare access, altered social networks, and increased social media use. Clinical services require additional resources to manage the increased disease burden, especially in vulnerable pediatric and indigenous populations. Ongoing monitoring will be required to establish the time‐course of pandemic‐related clinical demand.
Integration of two‐dimensional echocardiography: A novel risk indicator for ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction
Authors: Gao Hongli , Wang Kai , Wang Xinyi , Zeng Deli , Chen Zijun
Published: July 2024

Aims

We aim to integrate the parameters of two‐dimensional (2D) echocardiography and identify the high‐risk population for all‐cause mortality in patients with acute ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Methods

The study involved a retrospective cohort population with STEMI who were admitted to Yongchuan Hospital of Chongqing Medical University between January 2016 and January 2019. Baseline data were collected, including 2D echocardiography parameters and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF). The parameters of 2D echocardiography were subjected to cluster analysis. Logistic regression models were employed to assess univariate and multivariate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of cluster information in relation to all‐cause mortality. Four logistic regression models were generated, utilizing cluster information, clinical variables, clinical variables in conjunction with LVEF, and clinical variables in conjunction with LVEF and cluster information as predictive variables, respectively. The area under the curve (AUC) were utilized to evaluate the incremental risk stratification value of cluster information.

Results

The study included 633 participants with 28.8% female, a mean age of 65.68 ± 11.98 years. Over the course of a 3‐year follow‐up period, 108 (17.1%) patients experienced all‐cause mortality. Utilizing cluster analysis of 2D echocardiography parameters, the patients were categorized into two distinct clusters, with statistically significant differences observed in most clinical variables, echocardiography, and survival outcomes between the clusters. Multivariate regression analysis revealed that cluster information was independently associated with the risk of all‐cause mortality with adjusted OR 7.33 (95% confidence interval [CI] 3.99–14.06, P < 0.001). The inclusion of LVEF enhanced the predictive capacity of the model utilized with clinical variables with AUC 0.848 (95% CI 0.809–0.888) versus AUC 0.872 (95% CI 0.836–0.908) (P < 0.001), and the addition of cluster information further improved its predictive performance with AUC 0.906 (95% CI 0.878–0.934, P < 0.001). This cluster analysis was translated into a free available online calculator (https://app‐for‐mortality‐prediction‐cluster.streamlit.app/).

Conclusions

The 2D echocardiographic diagnostic information based on cluster analysis had good prognostic value for STEMI population, which was helpful for risk stratification and individualized intervention.