bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A rare case of giant mediastinal thymolipoma in an 18‐year man
Authors: Soleimani Hourieh , Aminzadeh Behzad , Hassannejad Ehsan , Payandeh Asma , Oudi Batul , Karimabadi Neda
Published: February 2024

Key Clinical Message

Thymolipoma is a rare benign thymic lesion that can manifest as a sizable anterior mediastinal mass. Considering their rarity and challenging preoperative diagnosis, it is crucial to consider these tumors when dealing with anterior mediastinal masses.
Carbon Covering Method to Enhance the Storage Capacity of Materials Belonging to the Conversion and Alloy Storage Types
Authors: Mu Yuan , Li Jianke , Wang Kun , Xu Guiying , An Baigang , Zhou Weimin
Published: February 2024

Driven by the development of energy storage systems (EESs), finding alternative anode materials forlithium‐ion batteries to replace the general carbon materials is becoming a hot research topic in the world. Using the metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal phosphides, metal selenides belonging to the conversion type and Sn, Sb, Bi, Ge, P and Si belonging to the alloy storage type seems to be a preferred option. Nevertheless, the demerits such as volume expansion and bad conductivity of alternative materials restrict their practical application. Carbon covering is an efficacious strategy to deal with the aforementioned issues because it can restrict the volume expansion and improve the conductivity of the composite materials effectively. This present review paper comprehensively describes the suitable carbon resources and preparation methods for expanding the practical applications of materials belonging to the conversion type and ally type in fabrications of negative electrodes.
Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Activity Realized from WS2 Thin Films Prepared by RF‐Magnetron Sputtering for Water Splitting
Authors: Ladhane Somnath , Shah Shruti , Shinde Pratibha , Punde Ashvini , Waghmare Ashish , Hase Yogesh , Bade Bharat R. , Doiphode Vidya , Rahane Swati N. , Kale Dhanashri , Rondiya Sachin R. , Prasad Mohit , Patole Shashikant P. , Jadkar Sandesh R.
Published: February 2024

We report the synthesis of tungsten sulfide (WS2) films using RF‐magnetron sputtering at different RF powers. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) data confirm the hexagonal crystal structure of WS2 with an average crystallite size of ∼44.54 Å. With increased RF power, the preferred orientation of WS2 crystallites shifts from (002) to (100). Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) was used to assess the Photoelectrochemical (PEC) activity of WS2 films. The film deposited at 150 W demonstrated the highest photocurrent density of 5.44 mA/cm2. The 150 W film also showed a lower Tafel slope of ∼0.374 V/decade, indicating superior PEC activity. Mott Schottky's (MS) analysis revealed a notable shift in the flat band potential towards the negative side, suggesting a shifting of the Fermi level towards the conduction band. WS2 film grown at 150 W demonstrated a majority charge carrier density of 6.2×1021 cm−3 and a depletion layer width of 1.54 nm. The observed low charge transfer resistance of 155 Ω contributed to the enhanced PEC activity with a relaxation time constant of 37 ms. These properties suggest that WS2 can be suitable for PEC water splitting.
Regulation of Electronic Structures of the Urchin‐Like NiCoP/CoP Nanocatalysts for Fast Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Chen Xiaodong , Luo Xiaoling , Zhang Xuefeng , Wang Huize , Li Yongcheng , Ye Lifang , Zheng Jiahua , Li Hao
Published: February 2024

The exploration of stable, efficient, and low‐cost catalysts toward ammonia borane hydrolysis is of vital significance for the practical implementation of this hydrogen production technology. Integrating interface engineering and nano‐architecture engineering is a favorable strategy to elevate catalytic performance, as it can modify the electronic structure and provide sufficient active sites simultaneously. In this work, urchin‐like NiCoP/CoP heterostructures are prepared via a three‐step hydrothermal‐oxidation‐phosphorization synthesis route. It is demonstrated that the original Ni/Co molar ratio and the amount of phosphorus are crucial for adjusting the morphology, enhancing the exposed surface area, facilitating charge transfer, and modulating the adsorption and activation of H2O molecules. Consequently, the optimal Ni1Co2P heterostructure displays remarkable catalytic properties in the hydrolysis of ammonia borane with a turnover frequency (TOF) value of 30.3 molH2 ⋅ min−1 ⋅ molmetal−1, a low apparent activation energy of 25.89 kJ ⋅ mol−1, and good stability. Furthermore, by combining infrared spectroscopy and isotope kinetics experiments, a possible mechanism for the hydrolysis of ammonia borane was proposed.
Fenton‐Like Reaction: Recent Advances and New Trends
Authors: Xiao Jiaying , Guo Sufang , Wang Dong , An Qi
Published: February 2024

The Fenton reaction refers to the reaction in which ferrous ions (Fe2+) produce hydroxyl radicals and other reactive oxidizing substances by decomposing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). This paper reviews the mechanism, application system, and materials employed in the Fenton reaction including conventional homogeneous and non‐homogeneous Fenton reactions as well as photo‐, electrically‐, ultrasonically‐, and piezoelectrically‐triggered Fenton reactions, and summarizes the applications in the degradation of soil oil pollutions, landfill leachate, textile wastewater, and antibiotics from a practical point of view. The mineralization paths of typical pollutant are elucidated with relevant case studies. The paper concludes with a summary and outlook of the further development of Fenton‐like reactions.
Carboranylphosphines: B9‐Substituted Derivatives with Enhanced Reactivity for Anchoring to Dendrimers
Authors: Milewski Max , Caminade Anne‐Marie , Mallet‐Ladeira Sonia , Lledós Agustí , Lönnecke Peter , Hey‐Hawkins Evamarie
Published: February 2024

Invited for the cover of this issue are the groups and colleagues of Anne‐Marie Caminade at the CNRS and University of Toulouse, Evamarie Hey‐Hawkins at Leipzig University, and Agustí Lledós from the Autonomous University of Barcelona. The image depicts birds crowned by a carborane competing for access to food, to illustrate the steric hindrance encountered when grafting carboranes to dendrimers (artwork by Dr. Christoph Selg). Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202303867.
Accelerating BRPF1b hit identification with BioPhysical and Active Learning Screening (BioPALS)
Authors: Pal Sandeep , Nare Zandile , Rao Vincenzo A. , Smith Brian O. , Morrison Ian , Fitzgerald Edward A. , Scott Andrew , Bingham Matilda J. , Pesnot Thomas
Published: February 2024

We report the development of BioPhysical and Active Learning Screening (BioPALS); a rapid and versatile hit identification protocol combining AI‐powered virtual screening with a GCI‐driven biophysical confirmation workflow. Its application to the BRPF1b bromodomain afforded a range of novel micromolar binders with favorable ADMET properties. In addition to the excellent in silico/in vitro confirmation rate demonstrated with BRPF1b, binding kinetics were determined, and binding topologies predicted for all hits. BioPALS is a lean, data‐rich, and standardized approach to hit identification applicable to a wide range of biological targets.
Investigating the Combined Toxicity of Cu(II) and Carbon Monoxide (CO); Cellular CO Delivery Using a Cu(II) Flavonolato Complex
Authors: Anderson Stephen N. , Dederich C. Taylor , Elsberg Josiah G. D. , Benninghoff Abby D. , Berreau Lisa M.
Published: February 2024

Carbon monoxide (CO) delivery molecules are of significant current interest as potential therapeutics, including for anticancer applications. A recent approach toward generating new types of materials‐based anticancer agents involves combining the Fenton reactivity of a redox active metal ion with CO delivery. However, small molecule examples of these types of entities have not been systematically studied to evaluate the combined effect on cellular toxicity. Herein we describe a Cu(II) flavonolato complex which produces anticancer effects through a combination of copper‐mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and light‐induced flavonol CO release. Confocal microscopy studies provide evidence of enhanced flavonol uptake in the copper flavonolato system relative to the free flavonol, which leads to an increased amount of CO delivery within cells. Importantly, this work demonstrates that a metal flavonolato species can be used to produce enhanced toxicity effects resulting from both metal ion‐induced Fenton reactivity and increased cellular uptake of a flavonol CO donor.
Risk factors for neurocognitive impairment, emotional distress, and poor quality of life in survivors of pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma: A report from the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: van der Plas Ellen , Darji Himani , Srivastava Deo K. , Schapiro Melissa , Jeffe Donna , Perkins Stephanie , Howell Rebecca , Leisenring Wendy , Armstrong Gregory T. , Oeffinger Kevin , Krull Kevin , Edelstein Kim , Hayashi Robert J.
Published: February 2024

Background

Prevalence and risk of poor psychological outcomes following rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) are not well‐established.

Methods

Participants in this cross‐sectional, case‐control study (n = 713 survivors, 42.5% female; mean [SD] age, 30.5 [6.6] years; n = 706 siblings, 57.2% female; mean age, 32.8,[7.9] years) completed measures of neurocognition, emotional distress, and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL). Multivariable logistic regression models identified treatments, health behaviors, and chronic conditions associated with impairment.

Results

Relative to siblings, more survivors reported neurocognitive impairment (task efficiency: 21.1% vs. 13.7%, emotional regulation: 16.7% vs. 11.0%, memory: 19.3% vs. 15.1%), elevated emotional distress (somatic distress: 12.9% vs. 4.7%, anxiety: 11.7% vs. 5.9%, depression: 22.8% vs. 16.9%) and poorer HRQOL (physical functioning: 11.1% vs. 2.8%, role functioning due to physical problems: 16.8% vs. 8.2%, pain: 17.5% vs. 10.0%, vitality: 22.3% vs. 13.8%, social functioning: 14.4% vs. 6.8%, emotional functioning: 17.1% vs. 10.6%). Cranial radiation increased risk for impaired task efficiency (odds ratio [OR], 2.30; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14–4.63), whereas chest and pelvic radiation predicted increased risk of physical functioning (OR, 2.68; 95% CI, 1.16–6.21 and OR, 3.44; 95% CI, 1.70–6.95, respectively). Smoking was associated with impaired task efficiency (OR, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.14–3.70), memory (OR, 2.23; 95% CI, 1.26–3.95), anxiety (OR, 2.71; 95% CI, 1.36–5.41) and depression (OR, 1.77; 95% CI, 1.01–3.11). Neurologic conditions increased risk of anxiety (OR, 2.30; 95% CI, 1.04–5.10), and hearing conditions increased risk of depression (OR, 1.79; 95% CI, 1.05–3.03). Neurologic and hearing conditions, respectively, were associated with impaired memory (OR, 2.44; 95% CI, 1.20–4.95 and OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.05–3.35) and poor health perception (OR, 2.62; 95% CI, 1.62–1.28 and OR, 2.33; 95% CI, 1.34–4.06).

Conclusions

RMS survivors are at significant risk for poor psychological outcomes. Advancing therapies for local control, smoking cessation, and managing chronic medical conditions may mitigate poor outcomes following RMS.
Myelofibrosis: Current unmet needs, emerging treatments, and future perspectives
Authors: Harrison Claire N. , Kiladjian Jean‐Jacques , Koschmieder Steffen , Passamonti Francesco
Published: February 2024

The current standard‐of‐care for treatment of myelofibrosis (MF) comprises inhibitors of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducers and activators (STAT) pathway; however, despite their ability to alleviate symptoms, they do not appear to modify underlying disease and have not demonstrated substantial survival benefit. Allogeneic‐hematopoietic stem cell transplantation remains the only curative option for patients with MF but is limited to a subset of high‐risk and fit patients. Early disease modification could positively affect disease trajectory for lower risk patients with MF as well as those with conditions that can precede MF, such as polycythemia vera and essential thrombocythemia. Here, the authors discuss critical unmet needs in the MF treatment paradigm, including: the need for safe, impactful therapies for lower risk patients, thus allowing intervention when success is most likely; better development of first‐line therapies (likely highly novel or combination strategies) for intermediate‐risk/higher risk patients; and approved drugs to manage cytopenia. Finally, a consensus definition of disease modification is needed that informs trial design, allowing the development of clinical end points that enable understanding of therapies and responses and that facilitate the development of therapies that work according to this definition. Through close collaboration between clinicians, patients, and the pharmaceutical industry, better efforts to define benefit and identify patients most likely to benefit from a particular combination or treatment strategy should enable the development of more effective and safe treatments to extend and improve quality of life for patients with MF.
Marigold Like Structure from Methionine Mediated Growth of Positively Charged Gold Nanorod
Authors: Sahu Jitendra K. , Sadhu Kalyan K.
Published: February 2024

During morphological evolution of gold nanoparticles, amino acids play a vital role in tuning shape, introducing chirality and inducing facet selective reactivity. Herein, we report the synthesis of unique marigold like structure (MGS) via growth reaction of methionine (Met) incubated positively charged anisotropic gold nanorod (GNR). Varying three important parameters such as growth time, concentration of Met and Au3+ reveals the combination of freshly generated small nucleated particles (fNPs) and GNR towards fabricating the unique MGS containing disk and ray floret parts. Strong interaction between Met and (111) plane of Au0 controls the orientation of (111) plane parallel to the direction of growth. This preferential interaction directs the assembly of gold nanostructures through Au (200) plane and results in merging of fNPs with concave GNR (cGNR) to fabricate the external arrangement of ray floret structure. The structural selectivity is attributed to the electron donating capacity of thioether functional group of Met(S) to Au+, generated prior to secondary nucleation. As confirmed by XPS and ζ‐potential analysis, the above interaction controls the Met concentration dependent inhibition of further Au+→Au0 reduction. The growth strategy of GNR has been further validated with a Met enriched peptide to produce disk and ray florets.
Hexagonal Boron Nitride Spacers for Fluorescence Imaging of Biomolecules
Authors: Yang Xiliang , Shin Dong Hoon , Yu Ze , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Babenko Vitaliy , Hofmann Stephan , Caneva Sabina
Published: February 2024

Fluorescence imaging is an invaluable tool to investigate biomolecular dynamics, mechanics, and interactions in aqueous environments. Two‐dimensional materials offer large‐area, atomically smooth surfaces for wide‐field biomolecule imaging. Despite the success of graphene for on‐chip biosensing and biomolecule manipulation, its strong fluorescence‐quenching properties pose a challenge for biomolecular investigations that are based on direct optical readouts. Here, we employ few‐layer hexagonal boron nitride (hBN) as a precisely tailorable fluorescence spacer between labelled lipid membranes and graphene substrates. By stacking high‐quality hBN crystals in the 10–20 nm thickness range on monolayer graphene, we observe distance‐dependent fluorescence intensity variations. Remarkably, with hBN spacers as thin as 20 nm, the fluorescence intensity is comparable to bare SiO2/Si substrates, while the intensity was reduced to 60 % and 80 % with ~10 nm and ~16 nm hBN thicknesses respectively. We confirm that pre‐determined hBN thicknesses can be employed to control the non‐radiative energy transfer properties of graphene, with fluorescence quenching following a d−4 distance‐dependent behaviour. This seamless integration of electronically active and dielectric van der Waals materials into vertical heterostructures enables multifunctional platforms addressing the manipulation, localization, and visualization of biomolecules for fundamental biophysics and biosensing applications.
Cyanide Bridged Framework Nanoplates Catalytic Interlayer for High Performance Zinc‐Iodine Battery
Authors: Zhao Hongyang , Yin Dandan , Zhao Lanya , Ding Shujiang
Published: February 2024

Iodine is a promising candidate among the cathode materials in zinc‐ion battery. However, iodine cathode suffers from serious shuttle effect by spontaneous generated polyiodide species. In this work, we developed a CoNi(CN)4/CNT interlayer to prevent shuttle effect by adsorption‐catalysis process. The adsorption of the iodine species on CoNi(CN)4/CNT interlayer is justified by UV‐vis spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, where the concentration of polyiodides is significantly reduced, and the binding energy of cobalt, nickel, and nitrogen is remarkably reduced by binding with polyiodides. The zinc‐iodine dual‐plating battery shows significantly higher areal capacity and cycle stability with CoNi(CN)4/CNT. Moreover, battery with impressive areal capacity of 3.6 mAh cm−2 and negligible fading over 100 cycles is also achieved, which outperforms state‐of the art literatures on zinc‐iodine batteries.
Genetic Prediction of Smoking Cessation Medication Side Effects: A Genome‐Wide Investigation of Abnormal Dreams on Varenicline
Authors: Chenoweth Meghan J. , Kim Yong Jae , Nollen Nikki L. , Hawk Larry W. , Mahoney Martin C. , Lerman Caryn , Knight Jo , Tyndale Rachel F.
Published: February 2024

Varenicline, the most efficacious smoking cessation monotherapy, produces abnormal dreams. Although genetic contributions to varenicline‐associated nausea and cessation have been identified, the role of genetics in abnormal dreams is unknown. We conducted a genomewide association study (GWAS) of abnormal dreams in 188 European ancestry smokers treated with varenicline (NCT01314001). Additive genetic models examined the likelihood of experiencing abnormal dreams 2 weeks following varenicline initiation. For the top locus, we tested for selectivity to varenicline, effects on cessation, replication, and generalizability to African ancestry (AA) individuals. The top GWAS variant associated with abnormal dreams was rs901886, mapping to intron 2 of ICAM5 on chromosome 19. The prevalence of abnormal dreams in those with rs901886 CC, CT, and TT genotypes was 15%, 36%, and 62%, respectively (odds ratio = 2.94 for T vs. C, 95% confidence interval = 1.92–4.55, P = 2.03e−7; T allele frequency = 52%). This rs901886 association was selective to varenicline (P values > 0.05 on nicotine patch and placebo). There were also positive associations for rs901886 T (vs. C allele, P = 0.03) and for abnormal dreams (P = 0.06) with varenicline‐aided cessation. Neither rs901886 (P = 0.40) nor abnormal dreams (P = 0.24) were associated with adherence. A similar direction of effect of rs901886 on abnormal dreams was observed in a second varenicline trial (NCT01836276). In AA individuals (n = 137), rs901886 was not associated with abnormal dreams (P = 0.41), but there was an association for a variant located ~ 74.4 kb 5′ of ICAM5 (P = 2.56e−3). Variation in ICAM5 may influence abnormal dreams and cessation on varenicline. These findings provide additional support for genetically optimized smoking cessation approaches.
Control of Liquid–Liquid Phase Separation, Nucleation, and Growth of L‐Menthol Single Crystals from Water–Ethanol Solvent Mixtures
Authors: Murugan Kowsalya , Karuppannan Srinivasan
Published: February 2024

L‐Menthol is a commonly used material in food production for flavor enhancement and fragrances, as well as in pharmaceuticals. However, during the solution crystallization process of L‐menthol, there is a major issue of oiling out or liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) in most organic solvents and their mixtures. The objective of the current work is to prevent the LLPS phenomenon and grow high‐quality single crystals of L‐menthol. A water–ethanol mixed solvent with nine different mixing ratios is used, ranging from 0.99W:0.01E to 0.91W:0.09E, through the conventional slow evaporation process. The findings indicate that the mixing composition of the solvent plays a significant role in the variation of solubility, refractive index, LLPS, nucleation, and crystallization. This is clearly demonstrated in the phase diagram. The occurrence of LLPS phenomenon, nucleation, growth behavior, and morphology of L‐menthol single crystals through optical microscopy is identified. Additionally, the internal structure and thermal stability of the grown polymorphs using PXRD, SCXRD, and DSC analyses are confirmed.
Development of a Thermodynamically Favorable Multi‐enzyme Cascade Reaction for Efficient Sustainable Production of ω‐Amino Fatty Acids and α,ω‐Diamines
Authors: Li Ju‐Mou , Shi Kun , Li Ai‐Tao , Zhang Zhi‐Jun , Yu Hui‐Lei , Xu Jian‐He
Published: February 2024

Invited for this issue's cover is the group of Huilei Yu at the East China University of Science and Technology. The image shows a sustainable biosynthesis route to nylon monomers from bio‐based substrate α, ω‐dicarboxylic acids. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202301477.
Sulfotransferase SULT2B1 facilitates colon cancer metastasis by promoting SCD1‐mediated lipid metabolism
Authors: Che Gang , Wang Wankun , Wang Jiawei , He Cheng , Yin Jie , Chen Zhendong , He Chao , Wang Xujing , Yang Yan , Liu Jian
Published: February 2024

Metastasis is responsible for at least 90% of colon cancer (CC)‐related deaths. Lipid metabolism is a critical factor in cancer metastasis, yet the underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Herein, through the utilisation of single‐cell sequencing and proteomics, we identified sulfotransferase SULT2B1 as a novel metastatic tumour marker of CC, which was associated with poor prognosis. CC orthotopic model and in vitro assays showed that SULT2B1 promoted lipid metabolism and metastasis. Moreover, SULT2B1 directly interacted with SCD1 to facilitate lipid metabolism and promoted metastasis of CC cells. And the combined application of SCD1 inhibitor CAY with SULT2B1‐ konockout (KO) demonstrated a more robust inhibitory effect on lipid metabolism and metastasis of CC cells in comparison to sole application of SULT2B1‐KO. Notably, we revealed that lovastatin can block the SULT2B1‐induced promotion of lipid metabolism and distant metastasis in vivo. Further evidence showed that SMC1A transcriptionally upregulated the expression of SULT2B1. Our findings unveiled the critical role of SULT2B1 in CC metastasis and provided a new perspective for the treatment of CC patients with distant metastasis.
Investigations on Water‐Soluble Copper Complexes with the Sterically Demanding Triazacyclononane Derivative (tBu)2(nPrSO3)Htacn
Authors: Schneider Lars , Würtele Christian , Schindler Siegfried
Published: February 2024

Related to environmentally friendly productions in the industry, the synthesis of catalysts with designed ligands for solubility in protic solvents and reactivity under mild conditions becomes important. Thus, copper complexes were synthesized with a ligand system that was designed for better solubility in protic solvents. The reactivity of copper complexes with hydrogen peroxide under ambient conditions was investigated in water and in methanol. The formation of a μ‐η2 : η2‐peroxide copper complex with a stability of a few minutes was observed in contrast to most related complexes reported in the literature. A kinetic analysis was performed, leading to activation parameters of ΔH≠: 66±4 kJ ⋅ mol−1 and ΔS≠: −5±12 J ⋅ K−1 ⋅ mol−1 (in water), a strong indication of an interchange mechanism.
Associations of long‐term clinical recovery and improved quality of life across ICD‐11 chronic pain categories in a real‐world registry study
Authors: Farnes Nadine , Granan Lars‐Petter , Jacobsen Henrik B. , Stubhaug Audun , Vambheim Sara M.
Published: February 2024

Background

There is little knowledge of what factors are needed for successful chronic pain management. We aim to identify psychosocial and treatment predictors of clinical recovery and improved quality of life (QOL) at 12‐month follow‐up across three chronic pain groups, based on the International Classification of Diseases‐11: neuropathic pain, secondary non‐neuropathic pain, and primary pain. Furthermore, we investigate baseline differences across diagnostic groups.

Methods

The sample included baseline and 12‐month follow‐up data from 1056 chronic pain patients from the Oslo University Hospital's Pain Registry. Logistic regression models investigated longitudinal associations between psychosocial and treatment characteristics, and the outcome measures clinical recovery and improved QOL. Characteristics were compared across the diagnostic groups.

Results

Increased odds of clinical recovery and improved QOL were seen in patients receiving invasive treatment (OR = 8.04, 95% CI = 3.50–19.40; OR = 5.47, 95% CI = 2.42–12.86), while decreased odds of clinical recovery were seen for secondary non‐neuropathic pain patients with pain‐related disability (0.05, 95% CI = 0.01–0.29). In comparing baseline characteristics, neuropathic pain patients had lower QOL, and more severe insomnia compared to the other groups.

Conclusion

Invasive treatment modalities were strongly associated with clinical recovery and improved QOL. Although this could be due to patient selection, it does warrant further examination as an intervention alternative for chronic pain. Intervention efficacy, risk factors and predictors of clinical recovery across diagnostic groups should be further investigated through longitudinal RCTs.

Significance

This observational study indicates a potential advantage in sustained recovery for pre‐selected individuals with chronic pain who undergo invasive treatments. The relationship between sustained recovery and psychosocial factors differs across neuropathic, secondary non‐neuropathic, and primary pain patients. This suggests that employing ICD‐11 for classifying patients into mechanistically distinct pain groups could inform the evaluation and management of chronic pain. Furthermore, factors previously identified as negative indicators for long‐term outcomes in chronic pain cohorts were not clinically significant in this study.
Electro‐thermo‐mechanical characterization of shape memory alloy wires for actuator and sensor applications—Part 1: The effects of training
Authors: Scholtes Dominik , Seelecke Stefan , Motzki Paul
Published: February 2024

So far shape memory alloys (SMA) are mostly characterized by their thermo‐mechanical behavior due to the underlying thermal effect. In technical applications however, where their benefits like low weight and compact design become relevant, they are activated electrically. This work presents methods for a thorough and systematic characterization of SMA wire samples under Joule heating with the focus on aspects relevant for applications. The goal is to achieve a precise understanding of the sensor and actuator properties of SMA wire samples with different trainings under varying loads. All experiments are conducted on a custom designed test bench with a commercially available NiTi wire with 72 μm diameter, which enables the direct comparisons of tensile tests to actuation tests. The characterization consists of tensile tests and actuator tests with varying load and heating power for differently trained wire samples. The results vividly represent the influence of heating power, training and changing loads on stroke output, working point and the functional stability of SMA actuator wires. Especially, the evolution of the resistance signal and the influence of the R‐phase on self‐sensing is discussed. The proposed method enables to compare and choose the best suitable alloy with a fitting training for a desired application.
Conservatism and information rigidity of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's growth forecast: Quarter‐century assessment
Authors: Tsuchiya Yoichi
Published: February 2024

This study assesses the performance of the GDP growth forecasts by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development for 38 countries between 1994 and 2019. It presents the following results. First, forecast performances improved over time. Second, the projections were mostly conservative, except for some countries with optimistic next‐year forecasts. Third, these forecasts were broadly rational once asymmetric loss was assumed. Fourth, the magnitude of improvement in forecast performance, conservativeness, and optimism were likely to differ across regions, Commonwealth of Independent States membership status, and income levels. Fifth, information rigidity was mostly found to be present. Sixth, there was less information rigidity in the short‐term horizon in recent years, suggesting that improvement in the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's forecasting practice and expanded information availability in transition economies enhanced its efficiency.
Einflussfaktoren von Verankerungssystemen auf den CO2‐Fußabdruck am Beispiel einer Bodenvernagelung
Authors: Schiller Andreas
Published: February 2024

Nachhaltigkeit ist ein Thema, das im Baubereich immer stärker in den Fokus rückt. Der Wunsch nach mehr Nachhaltigkeit steht nicht selten dem Anspruch hoher Qualität gegenüber, schließlich beeinflusst die Qualität der Bauprodukte nicht nur unser tägliches Wohlbefinden, in erster Linie steht Qualität am Bau für Sicherheit, für Tragfähigkeit und für Gebrauchstauglichkeit von Bauteilen – so wird es den Baubeteiligten in ihrer Ausbildung notwendigerweise vermittelt. Nicht selten herrscht das Vorurteil vor, dass Nachhaltigkeit und der Anspruch einer hohen Qualität im Widerspruch stehen. Der vorliegende Aufsatz soll das Thema Nachhaltigkeit bei geotechnischen Verankerungssystemen aufgreifen und die Einflussfaktoren auf den CO2‐Fußabdruck ermitteln und bewerten. Anhand des Beispiels einer Bodenvernagelung soll dargestellt werden, dass insbesondere die Komponenten Stahl und dessen Herstellung sowie Zement eine maßgebliche Rolle spielen. Durch die Wahl des Bodennagelsystems hat der Anwender einen erheblichen Einfluss auf Qualität und Nachhaltigkeit von geotechnischen Verankerungssystemen. Zudem sollen Wege gezeigt werden, wie ein Optimierungspotenzial schon heute baupraktisch genutzt werden kann. Nicht zuletzt soll ein Bauvorhaben aus der Praxis anhand von Zahlen verdeutlichen, welche Menge an CO2 mit der Wahl des idealen Verankerungssystems eingespart werden konnte.
Axon‐derived PACSIN1 binds to the Schwann cell survival receptor, LRP1, and transactivates TrkC to promote gliatrophic activities
Authors: Martellucci Stefano , Flütsch Andreas , Carter Mark , Norimoto Masaki , Pizzo Donald , Mantuano Elisabetta , Sadri Mahrou , Wang Zixuan , Chillin‐Fuentes Daisy , Rosenthal Sara Brin , Azmoon Pardis , Gonias Steven L. , Campana Wendy M.
Published: February 2024

Schwann cells (SCs) undergo phenotypic transformation and then orchestrate nerve repair following PNS injury. The ligands and receptors that activate and sustain SC transformation remain incompletely understood. Proteins released by injured axons represent important candidates for activating the SC Repair Program. The low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein‐1 (LRP1) is acutely up‐regulated in SCs in response to injury, activating c‐Jun, and promoting SC survival. To identify novel LRP1 ligands released in PNS injury, we applied a discovery‐based approach in which extracellular proteins in the injured nerve were captured using Fc‐fusion proteins containing the ligand‐binding motifs of LRP1 (CCR2 and CCR4). An intracellular neuron‐specific protein, Protein Kinase C and Casein Kinase Substrate in Neurons (PACSIN1) was identified and validated as an LRP1 ligand. Recombinant PACSIN1 activated c‐Jun and ERK1/2 in cultured SCs. Silencing Lrp1 or inhibiting the LRP1 cell‐signaling co‐receptor, the NMDA‐R, blocked the effects of PACSIN1 on c‐Jun and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Intraneural injection of PACSIN1 into crush‐injured sciatic nerves activated c‐Jun in wild‐type mice, but not in mice in which Lrp1 is conditionally deleted in SCs. Transcriptome profiling of SCs revealed that PACSIN1 mediates gene expression events consistent with transformation to the repair phenotype. PACSIN1 promoted SC migration and viability following the TNFα challenge. When Src family kinases were pharmacologically inhibited or the receptor tyrosine kinase, TrkC, was genetically silenced or pharmacologically inhibited, PACSIN1 failed to induce cell signaling and prevent SC death. Collectively, these studies demonstrate that PACSIN1 is a novel axon‐derived LRP1 ligand that activates SC repair signaling by transactivating TrkC.
Local government stakeholders' perceptions of potential policy actions to influence both climate change and healthy eating in Victoria: A qualitative study
Authors: Thanekar Urvi , Sacks Gary , Ruffini Oriana , Reeve Belinda , Blake Miranda R.
Published: February 2024

Issue Addressed

Climate change is a defining public health issue of the 21st century. Food systems are drivers of diet‐related disease burden, and account for 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Local governments play a crucial role in improving both the healthiness and environmental sustainability of food systems, but the potential for their actions to simultaneously address these two issues is unclear. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of Australian local government stakeholders regarding policy actions simultaneously addressing healthy eating and climate change, and the influences on policy adoption.

Methods

We conducted 11 in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with stakeholders from four local governments in Victoria, Australia. Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. We applied Multiple Streams Theory (MST) ‘problem’, ‘politics and ‘policy’ domains to explain policy adoption influences at the local government level.

Results

Key influences on local government action aligned with MST elements of ‘problem’ (e.g., local government's existing risk reports as drivers for climate change action), ‘policy’ (e.g., budgetary constraints) and ‘politics’ (e.g., local government executive agenda). We found limited evidence of coherent policy action in the areas of community gardens, food procurement and urban land use.

Conclusion

Barriers to further action, such as resource constraints and competing priorities, could be overcome by better tailoring policy action areas to community needs, with the help of external partnerships and local government executive support.

So What?

This study demonstrates that Victorian local stakeholders believe they are well‐positioned to implement feasible and coherent interventions that address both healthy eating and climate.
Resveratrol attenuates intestinal epithelial barrier dysfunction via Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway in dextran sulfate sodium‐induced Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Yu Xinya , Wang Yazhi , Xu Yunchun , Li Xiaoxi , Zhang Junhua , Su Yunpeng , Guo Le
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The intestinal tract serves as an innate barrier, safeguarding the internal milieu from microorganisms and toxins. Various intestinal inflammatory diseases have a strong association with intestinal barrier dysfunction. The primary functional cells within the intestinal tract, intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) and their tight junctions (TJs), are crucial in preserving the integrity of this mechanical barrier. Resveratrol (Res), a plant‐derived phenolic compound, exhibits a range of health‐promoting benefits attributed to its anti‐inflammatory properties. This study aims to examine Res's efficacy in bolstering IECs barrier function.

Methods

Dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) was employed to induce barrier dysfunction in IECs. Inflammatory cytokines in supernatants (interleukin [IL]‐6, IL‐1β, tumor necrotic factor [TNF]‐α, and IL‐10) were quantified via enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Then we assessed monolayer integrity using transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER). TJ protein expression (zonula occludens [ZO]‐1 and Occludin) in IECs was evaluated through immunofluorescence and Western blot analysis. Network pharmacology helped identify the biological processes, signaling pathways, and key targets involved in Res's mitigation of DSS‐induced IECs barrier dysfunction. The efficacy of the primary target was further corroborated using Western blot.

Results

Res was shown to increase cell viability and IL‐10 expression while reducing TNF‐α, IL‐6, and IL‐1β levels, thus mitigating the inflammatory response. It enhanced TEER values and upregulated TJ protein expression (ZO‐1 and Occludin). Network pharmacology revealed that Res potentially targets the NFE2L2 (nuclear factor erythroid‐2‐related factor 2, Nrf2), a vital antioxidant factor. Significantly, Res augmented Nrf2 and heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) protein levels, counteracting oxidative stress in the IECs barrier dysfunction model.

Conclusion

Overall, our findings suggested that Res ameliorated DSS‐induced IECs barrier dysfunction by activating Nrf2/HO‐1 pathway, showcasing significant therapeutic potential in the early stages of colitis.
Financialisation of the European Union Emissions Trading System and its influencing factors in quantiles
Authors: Wei Ping , Zhou Jingzi , Ren Xiaohang , Huynh Luu Duc Toan
Published: February 2024

This study analyses the financialisation of the carbon market and its possible external shocks, with a focus on the European Union Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), by investigating its quantile dependence and influence paths from stage three onwards. To achieve this, we construct a theoretical model of five factors related to the financialisation of the carbon market and empirically investigate the significant influencing factors and their influence paths under different quantiles using quantile group Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) and quantile regression models. We find that the price of WTI crude oil and the market risk‐aversion index have a significant effect on the financialisation of the EU ETS at extremely high quantiles. Factors such as the WTI crude oil price, precipitation, average share price of thermal power companies, and the federal funds rate have a statistically significant impact on the medium quantiles. However, we find no significant influence at extremely low quantiles, indicating that policy instruments are necessary to effectively regulate the operation of the carbon market. Therefore, it is crucial for carbon market stakeholders to pay close attention to these factors and adapt to changing market conditions.
Selection of internalizing RNA aptamers into human breast cancer cells derived from primary sites
Authors: Cunha Pricila da Silva , de Miranda Marcelo Coutinho , de Melo Mariane Izabella Abreu , Ferreira Andrea da Fonseca , Barbosa Joana Lobato , Oliveira Junnia Alvarenga de Carvalho , Goes Tércio de Souza , Gomes Dawidson Assis , de Goes Alfredo Miranda
Published: February 2024

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. Although chemotherapy is still broadly used in its treatment, adverse effects remain a challenge. In this scenario, aptamers emerge as a promising alternative for theranostic applications. Studies using breast cancer cell lines provide useful information in laboratory and preclinical investigations, most of which use cell lines established from metastatic sites. However, these cell lines correspond to cell populations of the late stage of tumor progression. On the other hand, studies using breast cancer cells established from primary sites make it possible to search for new theranostic approaches in the early stages of the disease. Therefore, this work aimed to select RNA aptamers internalized by MGSO‐3 cells, a human breast cancer cell line, derived from a primary site previously established in our laboratory. Using the Cell‐Internalization SELEX method, we have selected two candidate aptamers (ApBC1 and ApBC2). We evaluated their internalization efficiencies, specificities, cellular localization by Reverse Transcription‐qPCR (RT‐qPCR) and confocal microscopy assays. The results suggest that both aptamers were efficiently internalized by human breast cancer cells, MACL‐1, MDA‐MB‐231, and especially by MGSO‐3 cells. Furthermore, both aptamers could effectively distinguish human breast cancer cells derived from normal human mammary cell (MCF 10A) and prostate cancer cell (PC3) lines. Therefore, ApBC1 and ApBC2 could be promising candidate molecules for theranostic applications, even in the early stages of tumor progression.
Photocatalytic performance of Nd/TiO2 and Nb/TiO2 nanomaterials in the degradation of p‐cresol at room temperature
Authors: de la Cruz‐de los Santos Jesús Eduardo , García‐Zaleta David Salvador , Encarnación‐Gómez Cecilia , Martínez‐Corona Zurisadai , López‐González Rosendo , Álvarez‐Lemus Mayra Angélica , Morales‐Bautista Carlos Mario , Palma‐Ramírez D. , Reyes‐Montero Armando
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The degradation of organic pollutants, such as p‐cresol, is a challenge for natural mechanisms, and semiconductors are useful as photocatalysts to restore water quality. This work investigated the effects of neodymium (Nd) and niobium (Nb) doping on the structural and photocatalytic properties of titania (TiO2) under ultraviolet (UV) irradiation.

RESULTS

X‐ray diffraction (XRD) results displayed the formation of anatase, TiO2(B) and rutile phases on the Nd/TiO2 and Nb/TiO2 compounds. The Rietveld analysis estimated the composition of phases, as well as the crystal size for each crystalline phase in the samples (<43 nm). The crystal sizes and morphology of the powders were observed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and X‐ray spectroscopy (XPS) analysis confirmed the presence of Nd and Nb dopants in the TiO2‐based photocatalysts. Nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms results revealed pore sizes between 5 and 11 nm, as well as surface area values up to ~81 m2 g−1. The diverse compounds showed excellent removal efficiency of p‐cresol under UV light (10–30% faster than commercial TiO2‐P25).

CONCLUSIONS

This synthesis method favored the incorporation of Nd and Nb dopants in the TiO2 structure. Nd/TiO2 specimens showed higher photocatalytic response than Nb/TiO2 samples, possibly as a result of the synergic effects between phases [anatase and TiO2(B)], higher surface area values (≤ ~80.47 m2 g−1), as well as the nature of dopant. Photocatalysts with better photocatalytic performance demonstrated good degradation rate after 20 h. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Testosterone is closely related to Leydig cell activity, environmental factors, and androgen receptor distribution in adult male lizards of Liolaemus cuyanus (Reptilia: Liolaemidae) during the reproductive cycle
Authors: Barauna Andrea Anabella , Conte María Inés , Leporati Jorge Leandro , Quiroga Lorena Beatriz , Sanabria Eduardo Alfredo , Fornés Miguel Walter
Published: February 2024

Testosterone, the primary sex hormone in male lizards, is closely linked to Leydig cell activity (the cells where steroidogenesis occurs) throughout the reproductive cycle, but testosterone action is related to androgen receptors (ARs) distribution in the seminiferous epithelium. In temperate zones, environmental factors detected through the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, downregulate plasma testosterone, resulting in a seasonal reproductive cycle. The aim of this work is to study plasma testosterone in adult male lizards of Liolaemus cuyanus, an oviparous species, throughout its reproductive cycle and its relationship with Leydig cell histology, TotalLeydigCell/ActiveLeydigCell (TLC/ALC) ratio, environmental factors (temperature, relative humidity and solar irradiation) and ARs distribution in seminiferous epithelium. Specimens (N = 27) were captured (October to March) in a semi‐arid zone (Valle de Matagusanos, San Juan, Argentina) and grouped into three relevant reproductive periods: pre‐reproductive (PrR), reproductive (R), and post‐reproductive (PsR). Significant differences in plasma testosterone were found among these periods, highest during R than in PsR. A significant positive correlation between plasma testosterone and TLC/ALC ratio was also observed. Plasma testosterone has a significant positive correlation only with solar irradiation, but not with the other variables. In PrR and R, ARs distribution was cytoplasmic and nuclear, shifting to only cytoplasmic in PsR. These results highlight the close correspondence between plasma testosterone, Leydig cell histology and activity, environmental factors, and ARs distribution, resulting in a synchronization that allows males of L. cuyanus to coordinate their reproductive cycle with the most favorable environmental conditions, probably for mating and birth of offspring.
Cave beetle lineages gained genes before going down under: An example of repeated genomic exaptation?
Authors: Friedrich Markus
Published: February 2024

The adaptation of animals to subterranean habitats like caves and aquifers stereotypically leads to dramatic trait‐loss consequences like the lack of eyes and body pigmentation. These body plan regression trends are expected to be tied to gene loss as well. Indeed, previous studies documented the degeneration of vision genes in obligate cave dwellers. Contradicting this picture, the first broad‐scale comparative transcriptome‐wide study of gene content evolution in separate subterranean Australian and Mediterranean beetle clades unearthed evidence of global gene gain and retention. This suggests that the transition to cave life may be more contingent on gene repertoire expansion than contraction. Future studies, however, will need to examine how much the observed patterns of gene content evolution reflect subfunctionalization and fitness‐securing genetic redundancy outcomes following gene duplication as opposed to adaptive trajectories.
Self‐avoiding walks and polygons on hyperbolic graphs
Authors: Panagiotis Christoforos
Published: February 2024

We prove that for the ‐regular tessellations of the hyperbolic plane by ‐gons, there are exponentially more self‐avoiding walks of length than there are self‐avoiding polygons of length . We then prove that this property implies that the self‐avoiding walk is ballistic, even on an arbitrary vertex‐transitive graph. Moreover, for every fixed , we show that the connective constant for self‐avoiding walks satisfies the asymptotic expansion as ; on the other hand, the connective constant for self‐avoiding polygons remains bounded. Finally, we show for all but two tessellations that the number of self‐avoiding walks of length is comparable to the th power of their connective constant. Some of these results were previously obtained by Madras and Wu for all but finitely many regular tessellations of the hyperbolic plane.