bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis and Self‐Assembly of Poly(4‐acetoxystyrene) Cubosomes
Authors: Schumacher Marcel , Foith Marvin , Trömer Manuel , Tänzer Nadine , Rosenfeldt Sabine , Retsch Markus , Gröschel André H.
Published: October 2024

Polymer cubosomes (PCs) are a recent class of self‐assembled nanostructures with great application potential due to their high porosity and surface area. Currently, most reported PCs consist of polystyrene block copolymers (BCPs), for which self‐assembly parameters are rather well understood. Changing the block chemistry would be desirable to introduce more functionality; however, knowledge of adapting the self‐assembly process to new chemistries remains limited. This work, reports on synthesizing poly(ethylene oxide)‐block‐poly(4‐acetoxystyrene) and its copolymers with styrene, and provide conditions for their self‐assembly into PCs with high yield and high inner order. It is shown that the polarity of the starting solvent toward the corona block allows tuning of the final morphology by controlling the corona volume and packing parameter.
Targeting esophageal carcinoma: molecular mechanisms and clinical studies
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Ye Lisha , Li Huihui , Mao Weimin , Xu Xiaoling
Published: October 2024

Esophageal cancer (EC) is identified as a predominant health threat worldwide, with its highest incidence and mortality rates reported in China. The complex molecular mechanisms underlying EC, coupled with the differential incidence of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) across various regions, highlight the necessity for in‐depth research targeting molecular pathogenesis and innovative treatment strategies. Despite recent progress in targeted therapy and immunotherapy, challenges such as drug resistance and the lack of effective biomarkers for patient selection persist, impeding the optimization of therapeutic outcomes. Our review delves into the molecular pathology of EC, emphasizing genetic and epigenetic alterations, aberrant signaling pathways, tumor microenvironment factors, and the mechanisms of metastasis and immune evasion. We further scrutinize the current landscape of targeted therapies, including the roles of EGFR, HER2, and VEGFR, alongside the transformative impact of ICIs. The discussion extends to evaluating combination therapies, spotlighting the synergy between targeted and immune‐mediated treatments, and introduces the burgeoning domain of antibody–drug conjugates, bispecific antibodies, and multitarget‐directed ligands. This review lies in its holistic synthesis of EC's molecular underpinnings and therapeutic interventions, fused with an outlook on future directions including overcoming resistance mechanisms, biomarker discovery, and the potential of novel drug formulations.
An additively manufactured dual circularly polarized open‐ended waveguide antenna using outer ridges with wideband characteristic
Authors: Ma Zi Long , Zhang Chu Wei
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a novel additively manufactured wideband dual circularly polarized (CP) open‐ended waveguide (OEW) antenna, which adopts a pair of wedge‐shaped outer ridges acting as a circular polarizer. Study found that compared to the con‐ ventional designs that employ internal polarization converting structures, such outer ridges are capable of achieving wider axial ratio bandwidth (ARBW) and better reflection coefficients. On each ridge, two rectangular slots are designed to suppress the higher order mode caused by the increased waveguide size, and further expanding the ARBW. The proposed antenna is fed by two differential ports. By switching the feeding ports, the CP states can be altered to either right‐handed CP (RHCP) or left‐handed CP (LHCP). In terms of configuration, the proposed antenna has a simple one‐piece structure and is fabricated by using dielec‐ tric 3‐D printing technology. To form the waveguide walls, its partial surfaces are coated by copper films through electroplat‐ ing. The proposed antenna features easy fabrication and light weight. Experimental results show that the proposed antenna has an impedance bandwidth of larger than 47.6% (8–13 GHz) with reflection coefficients lower than −15 dB, while the 3‐dB ARBW is 37.7% from 8.4 to 12.3 GHz.
Dosimetry in MRgPT: Impact of magnetic fields on TLD dose response during proton irradiation
Authors: Fuchs Hermann , Palmans Hugo , Heilemann Gerd , Zuschlag Dominik , Georg Dietmar , Kuess Peter
Published: October 2024

Background

Proton beam therapy, when integrated with MRI guidance, presents complex dosimetric challenges due to interactions with magnetic fields. Prior research has emphasized the nuanced impact of magnetic fields on dosimetry. For thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs) the electron‐return effect, alongside small air cavities surrounding the pellets, can lead to nonuniform dose distributions. Future MR‐guided proton therapy will require reliable methods for end‐to‐end tests and dosimetric audits, which so far are often performed using TLDs equipped with phantoms. This implicates the necessity of accounting for these interactions.

Purpose

This study investigates the influence of magnetic fields on TLDs at two proton energies, using magnetic field strengths of 0, 0.25, and , aiming to clarify their impact on dose measurement accuracy.

Methods

The study was conducted at a synchrotron‐based ion beam therapy beam line, enhanced by a resistive dipole magnet for creating magnetic fields up to to simulate MR‐guided proton therapy. Individual correction factors were applied for TLD measurements. The impact of air gaps on the TLD signal was evaluated using three dedicated TLD holders with air gaps of 0.1, 0.25, and 0.5 mm surrounding the TLD pellets using the highest available proton energy of . Additionally, the influence of the magnetic field strength on the TLD response was evaluated for two proton energies of and .

Results

The study found no statistically significant variation in TLD dose response attributable to changes in the air gap or the presence of magnetic fields. A power analysis indicated an upper limit on a potential change in dose‐response as small as 1.5%.

Conclusions

The findings suggested that the impact of air gap variations and magnetic field strengths on the TLD response was below the detection threshold of TLD sensitivity. This emphasizes the suitability of TLDs for dose measurement in MR‐guided proton therapy, indicating that additional correction factors may not be necessary despite the influence of magnetic fields.
Streaming First‐Order Optimization Methods With Momentum for Dominant Eigenspace Estimation
Authors: Zhou Siyun
Published: October 2024

In this article, we consider the dominant eigenspace recovery for PCA in the streaming scenario, and design several new algorithms for this problem by incorporating various momentum schemes into two classical gradient based streaming eigensolvers, which emerges as a frequently‐used trick in improving gradient type methods. Theoretically, we establish the convergence guarantees of the proposed first‐order momentum methods, and prove their decreasing variance under favorable conditions. Extensive numerical experiments are conducted to corroborate the result that momentum does yield variance reduction, and also highlight the advantages of lowering the stepsize sensitivity. In addition, our methods with appropriately chosen momentum yield a dramatically enhanced performance in terms of both the convergence speed and accuracy.
Incidence and Risk Factors for Toxic Shock Syndrome After Endoscopic Sinus Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: O'Shaughnessy Jillian , Chiu Jerlon , Shim Timothy , Liao Yunhan , Yang Jie , Chung Sunny , Koos Jessica , Marcus Sonya
Published: October 2024

Objective

Toxic shock syndrome (TSS) is a rare but serious complication after sinonasal surgery and a commonly cited consideration for prescribing antibiotics when nasal packing or stents are placed. Most reports are limited to case reports or small series. The aim of this systematic review was to describe the incidence, risk factors, and clinical course of patients who developed TSS as a complication of endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS) and/or septoplasty.

Data Sources

A systematic review was conducted using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases.

Review Methods

Eligibility criteria were patients of any age who developed TSS as a complication of ESS and/or septoplasty.

Results

Twenty‐five studies were included in the final review. Seventy cases were identified over 38 years (1982‐2020). The pooled incidence of TSS after sinonasal surgery was 0.0003 (0.0002‐0.0004, 95% confidence interval, CI) or 30 per 100,000 persons. Among 33 patients with single‐subject data, mean age was 33.8 years (29.73‐37.87, 95% CI). Seventeen (51.5%) patients had nasal packing, 3 (9.1%) had stents, 5 (15.2%) had both, 7 (21.2%) had none. Fourteen (42.4%) patients had nonabsorbable packing and 5 (15.2%) had absorbable packing. Sixteen (48%) patients received peri‐operative antibiotics. Thirty‐two (97%) patients had full recovery.

Conclusion

The incidence of TSS after sinonasal surgery is very rare. TSS can occur with and without nasal packing and prophylactic antibiotics were not protective. Outcomes were favorable with appropriate recognition and management. Further study is needed to determine which patients are most at risk for TSS.
Inclusive Soundscapes: How Race, Socioeconomic Status and Maternal Age Influence the Pediatric Cochlear Implant Journey
Authors: Torres‐Small Sofia , Ward Christina N. , Thurmond Sarah L. , Tomescu Ana , Smith Rebecca , Macdonald Charles B. , Yawn Robert , Smith Samuel H. , Warren Sarah E. , Richard Celine
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess how race, social vulnerability, and maternal age influence pediatric cochlear implant access and usage.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary Pediatric University Hospital.

Methods

This study included individuals aged 0 to 18 who received a cochlear implant at our center between the years 2000 and 2022. Social vulnerability data from 2020 was obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Results

Of the 302 patients included in our study, 43% were black and 50% were white. Patients from the highest to lowest social vulnerability quintiles comprised 31%, 25%, 18%, 10%, and 14% of our sample, respectively. Race was associated with social vulnerability index (SVI) (P < .001), with a mean score of 0.70 (±0.26) and 0.49 (±0.27) for black and white patients, respectively. Later age at hearing loss (HL) diagnosis and cochlear implantation (CI) were associated with more and most vulnerable SVI (P < .05). Delayed diagnosis was also associated with black and other racial groups (P = .041), and adolescent maternal age (P = .03). Greater SVI was associated with less daily cochlear implant usage (P = .004). The most vulnerable patients were more likely to be lost to follow‐up (P = .03) despite no difference based on maternal age (P = .59) and insurance status (P = .47).

Conclusion

This study underscores the significance of mitigating disparities in timely diagnosis of HL, consistent CI usage, and appropriate follow‐up care. This is a first step toward the formulation of novel strategies aimed at overcoming barriers and developing appropriate intervention programs.
Preparation and Conductivity Analysis of LLTO Nanofiber‐Incorporated PEO‐PVDF‐HFP‐LiClO4 Solid Polymer Electrolytes for High‐Voltage Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ganeshbabu Mariappan , Selvan Ramakrishnan Kalai
Published: October 2024

This work focuses on the development of a composite polymer electrolyte (CPE) for all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs), integrating LLTO nanofibers into a PEO (polyethylene oxide)‐PVDF‐HFP (poly(vinylidene fluoride‐cohexafluoropropylene)) matrix with LiClO4 as the lithium salt. The PEO has high ionic conductivity and flexibility, and the PVDF‐HFP has high mechanical strength and electrochemical stability. Therefore, the resulting composite has improved electrochemical performance and mechanical properties. Incorporating LLTO nanofibers enhances ionic conductivity due to the one‐dimensional ion transport pathways provided by the nanofibers while maintaining mechanical integrity and air stability, overcoming the challenges associated with conventional fillers. The prepared CPE demonstrates exceptional electrochemical stability up to 5.1 V versus Li/Li+, making it suitable for high‐voltage applications over traditional polymer electrolytes. The optimized CPE with 15 wt% LLTO provides the ionic conductivity of 1.1 × 10−5 S cm−1 at room temperature and reaches 1.46 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 80°C. The assembled LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3PO4||PEO‐PVDF‐HFP‐LiClO₄‐LLTO||Li based 2032 coin cell worked in between 3 and 4.8 V versus Li/Li+ potential window without any electrolyte decomposition from 0.5 to 5 mV/s scan rates. Similarly, the fabricated LiFePO₄||PEO‐PVDF‐HFP (1:2)‐LiClO4‐LLTO (15 wt%)||Li cell provides an initial capacity of 149 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and 85   mAh g−1 at 0.5 C, exploring its potential for lithium metal batteries. Overall, this work offers a promising pathway for developing advanced solid polymer electrolytes for next‐generation lithium metal batteries, which combine high ionic conductivity, excellent electrochemical performances, and robust mechanical properties.
Respiratory sequelae after COVID‐19 infection in Thai healthy children
Authors: Niamsanit Sirapoom , Boonjindasup Wicharn , Sritippayawan Suchada , Deerojanawong Jitladda , Prapphal Nuanchan , Harnruthakorn Chanthana , Sophonphan Jiratchaya , Niyomkarn Watit
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

The long‐term respiratory sequelae of COVID‐19 infection in children remain poorly understood and may differ across countries. This study aims to investigate the respiratory sequelae, including residual respiratory symptoms and pulmonary function in Thai children. The secondary aim is to identify factors associated with the respiratory sequelae.

Materials and Methods

This is an observational study involving 56 healthy children, aged between 7 and 18 years, who were diagnosed with COVID‐19 infection from July 2021 to February 2023. Clinical data relating to COVID‐19 infection and persistent symptoms after the infection were assessed after the infection up to 6 months. Spirometry was performed to assess pulmonary function.

Results

Post‐COVID‐19 symptoms were identified in 14 patients (25%), with fatigue, cough, and dyspnea being common symptoms (28%–35%). A significant correlation was found between post COVID‐19 symptoms and pneumonia (OR = 6.00, 95%CI [1.54,23.33], p = .01). Abnormal pulmonary function was identified in 10 patients (17.8%) with obstructive impairment being the most common. However, there was no significant association between clinical factors and pulmonary function impairment.

Conclusion

Prolonged respiratory symptoms and abnormal pulmonary function following COVID‐19 infection are not uncommon in children. The post‐COVID‐19 symptoms are possibly associated with COVID‐19 pneumonia.
A coarse‐grained model for disordered and multi‐domain proteins
Authors: Cao Fan , von Bülow Sören , Tesei Giulio , Lindorff‐Larsen Kresten
Published: October 2024

Many proteins contain more than one folded domain, and such modular multi‐domain proteins help expand the functional repertoire of proteins. Because of their larger size and often substantial dynamics, it may be difficult to characterize the conformational ensembles of multi‐domain proteins by simulations. Here, we present a coarse‐grained model for multi‐domain proteins that is both fast and provides an accurate description of the global conformational properties in solution. We show that the accuracy of a one‐bead‐per‐residue coarse‐grained model depends on how the interaction sites in the folded domains are represented. Specifically, we find excessive domain–domain interactions if the interaction sites are located at the position of the Cα atoms. We also show that if the interaction sites are located at the center of mass of the residue, we obtain good agreement between simulations and experiments across a wide range of proteins. We then optimize our previously described CALVADOS model using this center‐of‐mass representation, and validate the resulting model using independent data. Finally, we use our revised model to simulate phase separation of both disordered and multi‐domain proteins, and to examine how the stability of folded domains may differ between the dilute and dense phases. Our results provide a starting point for understanding interactions between folded and disordered regions in proteins, and how these regions affect the propensity of proteins to self‐associate and undergo phase separation.
Biophysical characterization of RelA–p52 NF‐κB dimer—A link between the canonical and the non‐canonical NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Dhaka Nitin , Misra Subhranil , Sahoo Sunirmala , Mukherjee Sulakshana P.
Published: October 2024

The NF‐κB family consists of the key transcription factors of the NF‐κB signaling pathway, well known for its role in innate immune response, organogenesis, and a variety of cellular processes. The five NF‐κB subunits—RelA, RelB, c‐Rel, p50, and p52—are functional dimers, each of which share a conserved DNA binding domain which contains the dimerization domain (DD) as well. The NF‐κB subunits can form 15 potential dimers among themselves of which, RelA‐p50 is extensively studied and has largely become synonymous with NF‐κB for transcription activation. While various reports have highlighted the importance of NF‐κB subunit specificity in the transcription regulation of certain target genes, the dynamic nature of the NF‐κB dimer composition is not well understood. In this study, we biophysically characterized six combinatorial dimers from three NF‐κB subunits: RelA, p50, and p52, using NMR spectroscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. We show that the dimer composition is dynamic and can readily undergo exchange although at varied rates. Among the six dimers formed, RelA–p52 is found to be the most stable dimer with RelA–RelA being the least. Our results provide a plausible explanation as to why the RelA–p52 heterodimer is active during the later stages of the NF‐κB activation and serve as a link between the canonical and non‐canonical NF‐κB pathway.
α‐Mangostin Attenuates Blood Pressure and Reverses Vascular Remodeling by Balancing ACE/AT1R and ACE2/Ang‐(1–7)/MasR Axes in Ang II‐Infused Hypertensive Mice
Authors: Xue Qi‐Qi , Liu Chu‐Hao , Zhang Dong‐Yan , Li Ming‐Xuan , Li Yan
Published: October 2024

Hyperuricemia is a common comorbidity of hypertension and probably has a causal relationship with hypertension. Alpha‐mangostin (α‐MG) has been reported to have uric acid lowering effect. This study aimed to investigate the dual effects of α‐MG on blood pressure (BP) and uric acid levels in angiotensin II (Ang II)‐infused hypertensive mice. Male C57BL/6 mice were randomized into five groups: control, Ang II infusion (500 ng/kg/min for 2 weeks), Ang II infusion with gavage administration of α‐MG 4.0 and 8.0 mg/kg and benzbromarone (25 mg/kg) respectively. BP, uric acid levels, vascular structure and function, and renin–Ang II system expressions in the aorta were assessed. Treatment with α‐MG reduced BP, improved endothelial relaxation, and reversed aortic wall thickening and collagen deposition in Ang II‐induced hypertensive mice. It also downregulated Ang II receptor 1 (AT1R) and angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) expression, while upregulating ACE2, Mas receptor (MasR), and angiotensin (1–7) in the aorta. Moreover, α‐MG demonstrated a significant enhancement in uric acid clearance and reduction in serum uric acid levels. Conversely, benzbromarone did not result in a decrease in BP, indicating that the hypotensive effect of α‐MG may not be necessarily dependent on its urate‐lowering properties. α‐MG can attenuate Ang II‐induced hypertension and reverse vascular remodeling, potentially by balancing the ACE/Ang II/AT1R axis and the ACE2/Ang‐(1–7)/MasR axis. Our findings provide insights into α‐MG as a novel anti‐hypertensive drug especially in patients with hyperuricemia.
Isolated unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (IUAPA) presenting with progressive interstitial shadows: A case report
Authors: Takeshige Tomohito , Koyama Ryo , Kohmaru Makiko , Akimoto Takashi , Watanabe Junko , Yae Toshifumi , Kido Kenji , Takahashi Kazuhisa
Published: October 2024

Unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (UAPA) is a rare congenital condition. When UAPA occurs without associated congenital heart disease, it is referred to as isolated unilateral absence of the pulmonary artery (IUAPA). IUAPA is frequently not diagnosed until adulthood. A 61‐year‐old female patient presented with right chest pain and a worsening interstitial shadow over 9 years. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography revealed the absence of blood flow from the pulmonary artery in the right lung, leading to the diagnosis of IUAPA. In this case, the diagnosis of UAPA was established after approximately 40 years. This case underscores the importance of identifying vascular abnormalities to differentiate this condition in patients presenting with nonspecific symptoms and interstitial shadows.
Resilient Discrete‐Time Quantization Communication for Distributed Nash Equilibrium Seeking Under DoS Attacks
Authors: Cai Xin , Nan Xinyuan , Gao Bingpeng
Published: October 2024

This paper studies the design of resilient distributed Nash equilibrium (NE) algorithm for second‐order multi‐agent systems in the presence of Denial‐of‐Service (DoS) attacks, which prevent information transmission in the network with limited bandwidth and transmission rate. Resilient communication schemes, integrating periodic/event‐triggered schemes and a dynamic quantized transmission method, are designed in a distributed NE seeking algorithm to ensure the convergence of agents' strategies to the NE of the game. For the designed two resilient communication schemes, the sufficient conditions for the convergence of the algorithm are established, and the tradeoff between the sampling period and the frequency and duration of DoS attacks is analyzed. Cournot competition with distributed energy resources is used as an example to verify the proposed methods.
Upper Bounds for Linear Graph Codes
Authors: Versteegen Leo
Published: October 2024

A linear graph code is a family of graphs on vertices with the property that the symmetric difference of the edge sets of any two graphs in is also the edge set of a graph in . In this article, we investigate the maximal size of a linear graph code that does not contain a copy of a fixed graph . In particular, we show that if has an even number of edges, the size of the code is , making progress on a question of Alon. Furthermore, we show that for almost all graphs with an even number of edges, there exists such that the size of a linear graph code without a copy of is at most .
A review of the knowledge structure and trends in research on the interlinkages between the rule of law and environmental sustainability
Authors: Atta Nausheen , Sharifi Ayyoob
Published: October 2024

The interplay between nature and human activities is important for both human well‐being and the health of our planet. The rule of law is central to maintaining harmony between environmental needs and human endeavors. Since the early 1990s, particularly after the Earth Summit in 1992, there has been an increased interest in the relationship between environmental sustainability and legal frameworks. This has led to a significant expansion in the field, encompassing a wide array of research. Despite the field's growth, there is still a lack of review papers that explore its knowledge structure and evolution. This study aims to conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the literature by employing the Visualization of Similarities (VOS) viewer software. We identify key thematic areas within the field, highlight influential authors and journals, and specify major contributing countries and institutions. The findings show that the initial focus was on limited themes, which later gave way to an acknowledgment of the multidimensional nature of the subject. Certain themes, such as environmental emissions and governance, retain prominence. Among the focal themes, sustainability, climate change, and democracy are particularly influential in shaping the field's trajectory. Despite this evolution, certain aspects of both concepts, such as waste and water management, fundamental rights and justice system, and the importance of socio‐economic factors, remain underrepresented. This study offers valuable insights into the linkage between the rule of law and environmental sustainability themes and the associated themes.
Variability in Causal Effects and Noncompliance in a Multisite Trial: A Bivariate Hierarchical Generalized Random Coefficients Model for a Binary Outcome
Authors: Sun Xinxin , Shin Yongyun , Lafata Jennifer Elston , Raudenbush Stephen W.
Published: October 2024

Within each of 170 physicians, patients were randomized to access e‐assist, an online program that aimed to increase colorectal cancer screening (CRCS), or control. Compliance was partial: of the experimental patients accessed e‐assist while no controls were provided the access. Of interest are the average causal effect of assignment to treatment and the complier average causal effect as well as the variation of these causal effects across physicians. Each physician generates probabilities of screening for experimental compliers (experimental patients who accessed e‐assist), control compliers (controls who would have accessed e‐assist had they been assigned to e‐assist), and never takers (patients who would have avoided e‐assist no matter what). Estimating physician‐specific probabilities jointly over physicians poses novel challenges. We address these challenges by maximum likelihood, factoring a “complete‐data likelihood” uniquely into the conditional distribution of screening and partially observed compliance given random effects and the distribution of random effects. We marginalize this likelihood using adaptive Gauss–Hermite quadrature. The approach is doubly iterative in that the conditional distribution defies analytic evaluation. Because the small sample size per physician constrains estimability of multiple random effects, we reduce their dimensionality using a shared random effects model having a factor analytic structure. We assess estimators and recommend sample sizes to produce reasonably accurate and precise estimates by simulation, and analyze data from a trial of a CRCS intervention.
Clustering Functional Data With Measurement Errors: A Simulation‐Based Approach
Authors: Zhu Tingyu , Xue Lan , Tekwe Carmen , Diaz Keith , Benden Mark , Zoh Roger
Published: October 2024

Clustering analysis of functional data, which comprises observations that evolve continuously over time or space, has gained increasing attention across various scientific disciplines. Practical applications often involve functional data that are contaminated with measurement errors arising from imprecise instruments, sampling errors, or other sources. These errors can significantly distort the inherent data structure, resulting in erroneous clustering outcomes. In this article, we propose a simulation‐based approach designed to mitigate the impact of measurement errors. Our proposed method estimates the distribution of functional measurement errors through repeated measurements. Subsequently, the clustering algorithm is applied to simulated data generated from the conditional distribution of the unobserved true functional data given the observed contaminated functional data, accounting for the adjustments made to rectify measurement errors. We illustrate through simulations show that the proposed method has improved numerical performance than the naive methods that neglect such errors. Our proposed method was applied to a childhood obesity study, giving more reliable clustering results.
Advances in Anion Sensing Using Dipyrromethane‐Based Compounds
Authors: Acharya Subhadeep , Nayak Laxmipriya , Routray Supriya , Satapathy Rashmirekha
Published: October 2024

Anion sensing plays a crucial role in areas ranging from medical diagnostics to environmental monitoring. Dipyrromethane‐based compounds offer a versatile platform for developing colorimetric and fluorescent chemosensors, owing to their structural tunability and favorable optical properties. This review provides a concise overview of current advancements in anion sensing using dipyrromethane molecular framework. We examined the diverse strategies employed in designing dipyrromethane‐based anion sensors. Emphasis is placed on the structure‐function relationships that dictate anion affinity and selectivity. Key sensing mechanisms, including visual detection, UV‐vis studies, NMR studies, and fluorescence modulation, are explored. Finally, the synthetic routes for the synthesis of chemosensors are mentioned in detail. Given the efficiency and flexibility of dipyrromethane‐based sensor, we believe that major developments are to be expected in the field of both sensor and analytical chemistry.
Synthesis and Investigation of Polymers Containing Different Ratio of Quinonediiminic and Benzenoid Units in PANi‐Like Structure
Authors: Sargsyan Svetlana , Gabrielyan Liana , Durgaryan Narine , Minasyan Parandzem
Published: October 2024

This study presents, for the first time, a new method for the synthesis of polymers containing different ratios of oxidized quinoid and reduced benzenoid units in polyaniline (PANi)‐like structure. Copolymers were synthesized by an oxidative copolymerization method of p‐phenylene diamine (p‐PDA) and o‐anisidine (o‐An) in an organic medium using different initial compositions of monomers. The compositions of the copolymer were determined based on 1H NMR spectral data. The thermal stability, electrical conductivity, morphology, and solubility were studied and a comparative analysis with polyaniline and corresponding homopolymers was been carried out. The thermal behavior of copolymers was studied using thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry. It was found that during heating one endothermic process of water evaporation and two exothermic processes occur, which depend on copolymer composition, and only 30% weight loss occurs up to 600 °C. It is shown that room‐temperature conductivity of copolymers doped with hydrochloric and sulfuric acids ranges from 10−5 to 10−3 S cm−1 and increases with increasing concentration of o‐anisidine structural units. The conductivity of iodine‐doped copolymers is of the same order as the conductivity of iodine‐doped PANi in emeraldine and leucoemeraldine forms. The morphology of doped copolymers depends on the co‐monomer ratio and the type of dopants.
N‐Aryl‐Methylimidazothiazolyl Thiazolamines: Synthesis and Evaluation for Antiproliferative Antitubulin Activity in a Sea Urchin Embryo Model and PC‐3 Cancer Cells
Authors: Zubarev Andrey A. , Duda Kirill A. , Kuptsova Tatiana S. , Semenova Marina N. , Plyutinskaya Anna D. , Nemtzova Elena R. , Pankratov Andrei A. , Kiselyov Alex S. , Semenov Victor V.
Published: October 2024

A series of imidazothiazoles (ITZs) were conveniently accessed via an improved four‐step protocol in 55%–79% yields. The synthesized ITZs were tested in a combination of a phenotypic sea urchin embryo assay and PC‐3 human adenocarcinoma cytotoxicity studies. Both experimental approaches converged on compounds that showed microtubule targeting activity and cytotoxicity similar to the control compound, combretastatin CA‐4. Specifically, ITZs featuring electron‐donating pharmacophores in position 4, including 4‐Me‐, 4‐OMe‐, 3‐amino‐4‐Me‐, and 3,4‐ethylenedioxy‐substituted benzene ring (6, 7, 28, and 34) exhibited consistent antimitotic antitubulin effect along with the pronounced inhibition of PC‐3 cells growth. These compounds altered cleavage of the sea urchin eggs at 0.002–0.005 µM concentration and displayed cytotoxicity with IC50 values of 0.020–0.47 µM. Notably, the compound ITZ (25) featuring 3,4‐dimethoxybenzene fragment selectively inhibited growth of malignant PC‐3 cells (IC50 = 0.52 µM) while showing no effect on the sea urchin embryo development at up to 4 µM concentration. The sea urchin embryo screen also identified ITZs with systemic toxicity or solubility issues. The assay can be used to prioritize tubulin‐specific molecules for advanced evaluation.
Switching Photoluminescence “On‐Off‐On” for Detection of Chromium (VI) Ion and Ascorbic Acid with N,S‐Codoped Carbon Dots
Authors: Mishra Anurag , Bhattacharya Sagarika
Published: October 2024

A photoluminescent‐based “Turn On → Off → On” technique was adopted for a toxic, heavy metal ion detection, that is, specifically chromium (VI) and a pharmaceutically relevant ascorbic acid molecule. Metal‐free, environmentally benign, and fluorescent carbon dots, a potential vehicle for spectrofluorometric detection, were successfully deployed as sensors. Carbon dots synthesized from citric acid and sulfanilamide conserve the fragments of the precursor molecule on the surface. Zeta potential measurement evidenced the positively charged carbon nanoparticles physically interact with the Cr(VI)/Cr2O72− in acidic pH, resulting in a remarkable quenching in net fluorescence. Thorough studies revealed that the static quenching and inner filter effect were responsible for the reduction in fluorescence intensity. We have demonstrated a new rapid (in seconds) detection platform for Cr(VI) and ascorbic acid.
Synthesis, Reaction Mechanism, DNA Cleavage, and Antitumor Properties of Pyridazinedione‐Fused Enediynes
Authors: Zhang Houjun , Li Xuejie , Cheng Haonan , Pu Fangxu , Zheng Hongyu , Huang Xiaohua , Ding Yun , Lan Jiaming , Hu Aiguo
Published: October 2024

Natural enediyne antibiotics undergo thermally induced cycloaromatization under physiological conditions to generate highly reactive diradicals that effectively abstract hydrogen atoms from biomacromolecules like DNA, leading to DNA cleavage and inducing programmed cell death in tumor cells, exhibiting potent cytotoxicity and broad‐spectrum antitumor properties. In order to further explore promising synthetic analogues of natural enediynes, a 3,6‐pyridazinedione moiety was fused at the ene‐position, and 10 new enediyne compounds with different atoms at the propargylic positions were synthesized. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and electron paramagnetic resonance results indicated that these enediynes exhibited a rather low onset temperature and the capability to generate radical species at physiological temperatures. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrated that the pyridazinedione moiety facilitates cascade rearrangement processes, thereby endowing the key cycloaromatization with a low energy barrier. The enediynes with propargylic oxygen exhibit strong DNA cleavage capabilities, and all pyridazinedione‐fused enediynes showed IC50 values in the range of several tens of micromolars against HeLa cells.
Physical climate change exposure and firms' adaptation strategy
Authors: Li Xia
Published: October 2024

Research Summary

This article examines whether and how firms adapt to physical exposures to climate change. I build a novel dataset that compiles information on the adaptation strategies of publicly traded companies around the globe and merge it with climate science data. I find that firms are sensitive to the nature and level of forecasted climate change exposures, and that they adapt more often and more completely to those most salient to their business. Increased physical climate exposure heightens the perceived impact of climate change, leading to a higher degree of adaptation. Furthermore, the positive relationship between firms' climate change exposure and their adaptation is stronger for firms with greater environmental, social, and corporate governance capabilities and those with longer time horizons.

Managerial Summary

Companies are increasingly exposed to the physical impacts of climate change, yet little is known about how they adapt to these long‐term, systemic, and uncertain changes. This study investigates corporate adaptation strategies in response to climate change. By analyzing climate science data and climate change disclosure information from publicly traded companies worldwide, I find that most firms do not adapt to different physical climate change exposures. They adapt more often and more completely when facing higher forecasted climate exposures. Furthermore, firms' environmental, social, and corporate governance capabilities and their time horizons influence their adaptation to greater climate exposures. These findings suggest that targeted interventions may be necessary to improve corporate adaptation to climate change.
Research on Efficient Electromagnetic Shielding Performance and Modulation Mechanism of Aero/Organo/Hydrogels with Gravity‐Induced Asymmetric Gradient Structure
Authors: He Man , Lv Xuelian , Li Zhonghui , Li Haoyuan , Qian Wen , Zhu Shengyin , Zhou Yuming , Wang Yongjuan , Bu Xiaohai
Published: October 2024

To eliminate electromagnetic pollution, it is a challenging task to develop highly efficient electromagnetic shielding materials that integrate microwave absorption (MA) performance with high shielding capability and achieve tunability in shielding performance. Asymmetrically structured aero/organo/hydrogels with a progressively changing concentration gradient of liquid metal nanoparticles (LMNPs), induced by gravity, are prepared by integrating the conductive fillers Ti3C2Tx MXene and LMNPs into a dual‐network structure composed of polyvinyl alcohol and cellulose nanofibers. Benefiting from the unique structure, which facilitates the absorption‐reflection‐reabsorption process of electromagnetic waves along with conductive fillers and the porous structure, three types of gels demonstrate efficient shielding performance. HPCML achieves a total shielding effectiveness (SET) of up to 86.9 dB and a reflection shielding effectiveness (SER) of as low as 2.85 dB. Especially, APCML, with an ultra‐low reflection coefficient (R) of 6.4%, achieves compatibility between shielding performance and MA properties. The relationship between dispersing media (air, water, and glycerol/water) and the shielding performance of aero/organo/hydrogels is explored, thereby achieving modulation of the shielding performance of the gel system. The work has paved a clear path for integrating absorption and shielding capabilities into a composite material, thereby providing a prototype of a highly efficient shielding material with MA performance.
Colloidal Structure Dictates Antimicrobial Efficacy in LL‐37 Self‐Assemblies With Glycerol Monooleate
Authors: Valentin Jules D. P. , Kadakia Parth , Varidel Lucie J. , Stuart Marc C. A. , Salentinig Stefan
Published: October 2024

The antimicrobial peptide LL‐37 is a promising alternative to conventional antibiotics to combat bacteria in suspension and biofilms. Its self‐assembly with polar lipids is suggested to improve its potential for therapeutic applications with higher stability against degradation and bioavailability. This study investigates the self‐assembly of LL‐37 with glyceryl monooleate (GMO), establishing the link between colloidal structure and antimicrobial activity. Small‐angle X‐ray scattering, dynamic light scattering and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy show structural transformation from dispersions of inverse bicontinuous structure (cubosomes) to multilamellar vesicles and direct rod‐like mixed‐micelles upon increasing the content of LL‐37 in GMO. In vitro assays against planktonic and biofilm cells demonstrate that 128 µg mL−1 of GMO cubosomes have no impact on Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Still, the cubosomes reduce the Staphylococcus aureus planktonic population by ≈ 1‐log after 24 h. Cylindrical micelles formed at LL‐37/GMO 9/1 and 8/2 with 128 µg mL−1 LL‐37 decrease the Pseudomonas aeruginosa population by 6‐log. This activity is gradually abolished when LL‐37 is encapsulated in vesicles or cubosomes. They also demonstrate low antibiofilm efficacy and promote the biomass of Staphylococcus aureus biofilms. These results highlight the importance of colloidal structure for therapeutic outcomes, providing insights for advanced lipid nanocarrier designs.
ZnO Nanoparticle Assisted Liquid Metal for Dendrite‐Free Zn Metal Anodes
Authors: Tang Li‐Jun , Gao Jian , Liang Xue , Zhang Qian , Lv Zhiguo , Zhang Yong‐Chao , Zhu Xiao‐Dong
Published: October 2024

Dendrite growth and interfacial side reactions on Zn anode seriously affect the safety and service life of Zn ions batteries. Interface engineering is an effective way to solve these problems. Here, a liquid metal‐ZnO composite coating with high ionic conductivity is creatively designed, which not only reduces the Zn2+ diffusion barrier but also increases the hydrogen evolution overpotential, thereby eliminating dendrite growth behavior and corrosion on the modified Zn anode. Moreover, its unique structure induces Zn deposition into the inner of coating, which can effectively avoid the volume expansion in the deposit layer of Zn anode. Therefore, it can cycle for 3 000 h at an ultra‐small polarization of 28 mV at 1 mA cm−2, and the microbattery assembled in combination with the MnO2 cathode also maintains 2 000 cycles with high Coulomb efficiency, providing a general idea for the development of the next generation of rechargeable metal batteries.
Radiation‐Synthesized Metal–Organic Frameworks with Ligand‐Induced Lewis Pairs for Selective CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Tang Bijun , Huang Kai , Zhang Zhihui , Wang Zeming , An Guangbin , Zhang Mingwan , Wang Kang , Fu Shuai , Guo Huazhang , Han Tao , Lian Cheng , Zhang Baohua , Wu Tong , Lei Zhendong , Wang Liang
Published: October 2024

The electrochemical activation of inert CO2 molecules through C─C coupling reactions under ambient conditions remains a significant challenge but holds great promise for sustainable development and the reduction of CO2 emission. Lewis pairs can capture and react with CO2, offering a novel strategy for the electrosynthesis of high‐value‐added C2 products. Herein, an electron‐beam irradiation strategy is presented for rapidly synthesizing a metal–organic framework (MOF) with well‐defined Lewis pairs (i.e., Cu‐ Npyridinic). The synthesized MOFs exhibit a total C2 product faradic efficiency of 70.0% at −0.88 V versus RHE. In situ attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared and Raman spectra reveal that the electron‐deficient Lewis acidic Cu sites and electron‐rich Lewis basic pyridinic N sites in the ligand facilitate the targeted chemisorption, activation, and conversion of CO2 molecules. DFT calculations further elucidate the electronic interactions of key intermediates in the CO2 reduction reaction. The work not only advances Lewis pair‐site MOFs as a new platform for CO2 electrochemical conversion, but also provides pioneering insights into the underlying mechanisms of electron‐beam irradiated synthesis of advanced nanomaterials.
Dissolution of Primary Carbides and Formation and Healing of Kirkendall Voids in Bearing Steel under Pulsed Electric Current
Authors: Wang Zhongxue , Zhang Tao , Zhou Mengcheng , Zhang Mingkui , Ma Jinchao , Zhang Xinfang , Guo Jingdong , Liu Jide , Zhou Yizhou
Published: October 2024

The alloying elements in 8Cr4Mo4V bearing steel tend to form large primary carbides with carbon, which not only causes element segregation but also becomes the primary source of fatigue crack initiation, thereby decreasing the material's usability and machinability. Owing to the excellent thermal stability of primary carbides, traditional homogenization annealing requires high temperatures, which is both time‐ and energy‐intensive. Excessively high heat treatment temperatures can also result in “overburning” of the sample. Herein, primary carbides are rapidly dissolved at low temperatures using pulsed electric current treatment. The additional free energy introduced by the pulsed electric current lowers the thermodynamic barrier for carbide dissolution. During the second‐phase dissolution process, the unbalanced diffusion of elements may cause the formation of Kirkendall voids. Due to the difference in electrical conductivity between the voids and the matrix, the pulsed electric current generates thermal compressive stress on the voids, promoting rapid atom migration to these voids and accelerating their healing. This pulse‐current treatment technology offers a novel method for the rapid dissolution of carbides in alloys at low temperatures and for the rapid healing of related voids.
An Introduction to the Modular Forensic Handwriting Method
Authors: Bird Carolyne , Jones Kylie , Ballantyne Kaye
Published: October 2024

The forensic examination of handwriting utilizes complex human perceptual and cognitive processes that can be difficult to accurately and validly describe since, for the most part, these processes are unseen. The series of articles published in this WIREs special issue present the agreed general approach that government practitioners in Australia use in the majority of the handwriting comparisons that they carry out. The systematic modular approach is informed by research and developments in the fields of motor control of handwriting, human factors, validation of handwriting examination, and evidence evaluation and reporting. The method is based around a process outline which structures the comparison process and provides the reader with a guide to the tasks to undertake and issues to consider at the different stages commonly worked through in practical handwriting examinations. Where decision or assessment points occur within the course of the method, a series of modules have been developed which describe the nature of the matter under consideration and address relevant theoretical and practical issues. Each module (published as an article in this special issue) is, as far as is practical, independent of other modules in the method. This will facilitate changes in the process over time that may result from theoretical, practical or technological advances in the field. The document as a whole can be used by practitioners actively involved in casework, or individuals such as researchers, academics, and legal professionals with an interest in understanding or exploring aspects of the practice of forensic handwriting examination.