bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular mechanism of complement inhibition by the trypanosome receptor ISG65
Authors: Cook Alexander D , Carrington Mark , Higgins Matthew K
Published: July 2023

African trypanosomes replicate within infected mammals where they are exposed to the complement system. This system centres around complement C3, which is present in a soluble form in serum but becomes covalently deposited onto the surfaces of pathogens after proteolytic cleavage to C3b. Membrane-associated C3b triggers different complement-mediated effectors which promote pathogen clearance. To counter complement-mediated clearance, African trypanosomes have a cell surface receptor, ISG65, which binds to C3b and which decreases the rate of trypanosome clearance in an infection model. However, the mechanism by which ISG65 reduces C3b function has not been determined. We reveal through cryogenic electron microscopy that ISG65 has two distinct binding sites for C3b, only one of which is available in C3 and C3d. We show that ISG65 does not block the formation of C3b or the function of the C3 convertase which catalyses the surface deposition of C3b. However, we show that ISG65 forms a specific conjugate with C3b, perhaps acting as a decoy. ISG65 also occludes the binding sites for complement receptors 2 and 3, which may disrupt recruitment of immune cells, including B cells, phagocytes, and granulocytes. This suggests that ISG65 protects trypanosomes by combining multiple approaches to dampen the complement cascade.
Molecular mechanism of complement inhibition by the trypanosome receptor ISG65
Authors: Cook Alexander D. , Carrington Mark , Higgins Matthew K.
Published: July 2023

African trypanosomes replicate within infected mammals where they are constantly exposed to the molecules of the complement system. This system centres around complement factor C3, which is present in a soluble form in serum but can become covalently deposited onto the surfaces of pathogens after proteolytic cleavage to C3b. Membrane-associated C3b triggers different complement-mediated effectors which promote pathogen clearance, including complement receptor-mediated stimulation of immune cells or recruitment of components of the pore-forming membrane attack complex. To counter complement-mediated clearance, African trypanosomes have a cell surface receptor, ISG65, which binds to C3b and which decreases the rate of trypanosome clearance in an infection model. However, the mechanism by which ISG65 reduces C3b function had not been determined. We reveal through cryogenic electron microscopy that ISG65 has two distinct binding sites for C3b, only one of which is available in C3, ensuring that ISG65 preferentially binds to active C3b. We show that ISG65 does not block the formation of C3b or the function of the C3 convertase which catalyses the surface deposition of C3b. However, we show that ISG65 forms a specific conjugate with C3b, perhaps acting as a decoy. ISG65 also occludes the binding sites for complement receptors 2 and 3, which will disrupt recruitment of immune cells, including B cells, phagocytes and granulocytes. This suggests that ISG65 protects trypanosomes by combining multiple approaches to dampen the complement cascade.
241,000 to 335,000 Years Old Rock Engravings Made by Homo naledi in the Rising Star Cave system, South Africa
Authors: Berger Lee R. , Hawks John , Fuentes Agustin , van Rooyen Dirk , Tsikoane Mathabela , Ramalepa Maropeng , Nkwe Samuel , Molopyane Keneiloe
Published: July 2023

The production of painted, etched or engraved designs on cave walls or other surfaces is recognized as a major cognitive step in human evolution. Such intentional designs, which are widely interpreted as signifying, recording, and transmitting information in a durable manner were once considered exclusive to Late Pleistocene
Homo sapiens
. Recent work has demonstrated that other hominin groups also made such marks, including Neanderthals (Rodríguez-Vidal et al., 2014; Hoffmann et al., 2018), and possibly Middle-Pleistocene
Homo erectus
(Joordens et al., 2015). Such durable signs indicate an intentionality characteristic of meaning-making (Kissel and Fuentes 2018) which has been argued to require significant levels of cognitive abilities not found in species with smaller brain sizes (Parkington, 2010). In fact, the evolution of such meaning-making symbols is thought to be a core aspect of what it means to be “human” (Henshilwood, 2009). Here we present the first known example of abstract patterns and shapes engraved within the Dinaledi subsystem of the Rising Star Cave in South Africa. We identified markings incised into the dolomitic limestone walls of the cave. The engravings described here are deeply impressed cross-hatchings and other geometric shapes. The surfaces bearing these engravings appear to have been prepared and smoothed. In some areas there is residue that creates a sheen on the surface possibly indicating repeated handling or rubbing of the rock, and there is evidence of the application of dirt or sand to the surface by non-natural processes.
Homo naledi
entered this part of the cave system and buried bodies within the both the Dinaledi Chamber and adjacent Hill Antechamber between 241 and 335 ka (Dirks et al., 2017; Robbins et al., 2021, Berger et al, 2023a). The engravings described here are found on a pillar in the Hill Antechamber that extends into the natural fissure corridor that links the two chambers and we associate them with
H. naledi
.
Mechanism of substrate binding and transport in BASS transporters
Authors: Becker Patrick , Naughton Fiona B. , Brotherton Deborah H. , Pacheco-Gomez Raul , Beckstein Oliver , Cameron Alexander D.
Published: July 2023

The Bile Acid Sodium Symporter (BASS) family transports a wide array of molecules across membranes, including bile acids in humans, and small metabolites in plants. These transporters, many of which are sodium-coupled, have been shown to use an elevator mechanism of transport, but exactly how substrate binding is coupled to sodium ion binding and transport is not clear. Here we solve the crystal structure at 2.3 Å of a transporter from
Neisseria Meningitidis
(ASBT
NM
) in complex with pantoate, a potential substrate of ASBT
NM
. The BASS family is characterised by two helices that cross-over in the centre of the protein in an arrangement that is intricately held together by two sodium ions. We observe that the pantoate binds, specifically, between the N-termini of two of the opposing helices in this cross-over region. During molecular dynamics simulations the pantoate remains in this position when sodium ions are present but is more mobile in their absence. Comparison of structures in the presence and absence of pantoate demonstrates that pantoate elicits a conformational change in one of the cross-over helices. This modifies the interface between the two domains that move relative to one another to elicit the elevator mechanism. These results have implications, not only for ASBT
NM
but for the BASS family as a whole and indeed other transporters that work through the elevator mechanism.
PI(3,4,5)P3 allosteric regulation of repressor activator protein 1 controls antigenic variation in trypanosomes
Authors: Touray Abdoulie O , Rajesh Rishi , Isebe Tony , Sternlieb Tamara , Loock Mira , Kutova Oksana , Cestari Igor
Published: July 2023

African trypanosomes evade host immune clearance by antigenic variation, causing persistent infections in humans and animals. These parasites express a homogeneous surface coat of variant surface glycoproteins (VSGs). They transcribe one out of hundreds of VSG genes at a time from telomeric expression sites (ESs) and periodically change the VSG expressed by transcriptional switching or recombination. The mechanisms underlying the control of VSG switching and its developmental silencing remain elusive. We report that telomeric ES activation and silencing entail an on/off genetic switch controlled by a nuclear phosphoinositide signaling system. This system includes a nuclear phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphatase (PIP5Pase), its substrate PI(3,4,5)P3, and the repressor-activator protein 1 (RAP1). RAP1 binds to ES sequences flanking VSG genes via its DNA binding domains and represses VSG transcription. In contrast, PI(3,4,5)P3 binds to the N-terminus of RAP1 and controls its DNA binding activity. Transient inactivation of PIP5Pase results in the accumulation of nuclear PI(3,4,5)P3, which binds RAP1 and displaces it from ESs, activating transcription of silent ESs and VSG switching. The system is also required for the developmental silencing of VSG genes. The data provides a mechanism controlling reversible telomere silencing essential for the periodic switching in VSG expression and its developmental regulation.
Effects of eggshell and seashell powder as natural dietary calcium supplements on growth, molting frequency, and carapace calcium composition of juvenile red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus
Authors: Shahroom Ahmad , Shapawi Rossita , Mustafa Saleem , Abd Halid Nur Fatihah , Estim Abentin , Daning Tuzan Audrey
Published: July 2023

The growth performance of red claw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus, fed diets with different sources and concentrations of natural calcium was evaluated. Formulated diets containing 30% protein and 8% lipid were prepared using supplementation of 0 (control), 3%, 6%, 9% eggshell, and 6% seashell. C. quadricarinatus juveniles with an average total weight of 0.21 ± 0.01 g and length of 25.0 ± 0.10 mm were obtained from ten ovigerous females bred in captivity. An aquarium with a size of 0.72 m² was divided into eight compartments with an area of 0.09 m² per compartment and was individually stocked with juvenile crayfish. A total of eight juvenile crayfish were used per dietary treatment. There were five dietary treatments in total and each of these treatments were replicated three times. The addition of eggshell and seashell powder exerted positive effects on the growth performance, molting frequency, and survival of the crayfish. Crayfish fed with a 6% eggshell-supplemented diet exhibited the best overall growth performance. The calcium percentage of the carapace increased with the increase in calcium content of the diets. Meanwhile, the performance of diets comprising eggshells and seashells was not significantly different (P > 0.05). Considering the low cost and abundance of eggshells, the addition of 6% of this product to the diet is recommended for the best growth of juvenile C. quadricarinatus.
Effect of sit-to-stand-based training on muscle quality in sedentary adults: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lizama-Pérez Rodrigo , Chirosa-Ríos Luis Javier , Contreras-Díaz Guido , Jerez-Mayorga Daniel , Jiménez-Lupión Daniel , Chirosa-Ríos Ignacio Jesús
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of sit-to-stand (STS) training programs with 5 vs. 10 repetitions on muscle architecture and muscle function in sedentary adults. Sixty participants were randomly assigned into three groups: five-repetition STS (5STS), 10-repetition STS (10STS), or a control group (CG). Participants performed three sets of five or 10 repetitions of the STS exercise three times per week for 8 weeks. Before and after 8 weeks, all groups performed ultrasound measures to evaluate muscle thickness (MT), pennation angle (PA), and fascicle length (FL), and the five-repetition STS test to estimate the relative STS power and muscle quality index (MQI). After 8 weeks, both experimental groups improved MQI (40–45%), relative STS power (29–38%), and MT (8–9%) (all p < 0.001; no differences between the 5STS vs. 10STS groups). These improvements in both groups resulted in differences regarding the CG, which did not present any change. In addition, only the 5STS group improved PA (15%; p = 0.008) without differences to the 10STS and CG.This suggests that STS training is time-effective and low-cost for improving muscle function and generating adaptations in muscle architecture.
Association Between Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Subsequent Heart Failure Among Adults in Germany
Authors: Luedde Mark , Schmidt Volker Jürgen , Gänsbacher-Kunzendorf Julia , Kostev Karel
Published: July 2023

This cohort study investigates the association of carpal tunnel syndrome with heart failure among a large group of outpatients in Germany.
Case Stacking
Authors: Caha Pavel
Published: July 2023

In the broadest possible sense, case stacking can be defined as a phenomenon where a noun (or a pronoun, adjective) is followed by two or more adjacent case markers. This entry focuses on two central issues related to case stacking. The first issue is under what morphosyntactic conditions case stacking arises (e.g. agreement, noun ellipsis, phrasal case marking, multiple case assignment). The second issue is what the morphosyntactic consequences of case stacking are (the appearance of ‘dummy’ morphemes; deletion of case morphemes; the fusion of consecutive case morphemes).
Anticipatory thinking in design
Authors: Klenk Matthew , Hong Matthew , Hakimi Shabnam , Wu Charlene
Published: July 2023

Anticipatory thinking (AT) and design have many commonalities. We identify three challenges for all computational AT systems: representation, generation, and evaluation. We discuss how existing artificial intelligence techniques provide some methods for addressing these, but also fall significantly short. Next, we articulate where AT concepts appear in three computational design paradigms: configuration design, design for resilience, and conceptual design. We close by identifying two promising future directions at the intersection of AT and design: modeling other humans and new interfaces to support human decision‐makers.
Do perpetrators and victims rely on different information when judging whether aggressive behaviors are justified?
Authors: McCarthy Randy J.
Published: July 2023

Perpetrators perceive their aggressive behaviors as more justified than victims do. This difference in perception may be due to each person relying heavily on their private thoughts and experiences, which effectively means that perpetrators and victims consider different information, and value that information differently, when judging whether an aggressive behavior is justified. The current manuscript contains four studies that tested these ideas. When judging whether an aggressive behavior is justified, perpetrators reported relying heavily on their thoughts and motives (Studies 1–3) and victims reported relying heavily on their experience of being harmed (Study 2). Further, as people considered the perpetrator's thoughts that led to the aggressive behavior, perpetrators, but not victims, became more confident in their judgments (Study 3). Finally, when judging their aggressive behavior, people felt their judgments were less biased than a “typical person's” judgments would be (Study 4). Collectively, these studies demonstrate some of the cognitive reasons that perpetrators and victims disagree on their judgments about whether an aggressive behavior is justified and, consequently, some of the cognitive barriers that need to be overcome for successful conflict resolution to occur.
Clinical, genetic, and molecular characteristics in a central‐southern Chinese cohort of genetic leukodystrophies
Authors: Li Yingjie , Xu Jiaming , Xu Yan , Li Chuanzhou , Wu Yan , Liu Zhijun
Published: July 2023

Objective

Leukodystrophies are a diverse group of rare inherited disorders that affect the white matter of the central nervous system with a wide phenotypic spectrum. We aimed to characterize the clinical and genetic features of leukodystrophies in a central‐southern Chinese cohort.

Methods

A cohort of 16 Chinese probands with leukodystrophy was recruited and performed genetic analysis by targeted panels or whole‐exome sequencing. Further functional analysis of identified mutations in the colony stimulating factor 1 receptor (CSF1R) gene was explored.

Results

A total of eight pathogenic variants (3 novel, 5 documented) were identified in genes including AARS2, ABCD1, CSF1R, and GALC. Common symptoms of leukodystrophy such as cognitive decline, behavioral symptoms, bradykinesia, and spasticity were observed in mutation carriers as well as other rare features (e.g., seizure, dysarthric, and vision impairment). Overexpressing CSF1R mutants p.M875I and p.F971Sfs*7 in vitro showed pronounced cleavage CSF1R and suppressed protein expression, respectively, and reduced transcripts of both mutants were observed. CSF1 treatment revealed deficient and suppressed CSF1R phospho‐activation with the mutants. In contrast to the plasma membrane and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) localized wild‐type CSF1R, M875I mutant showed much less membrane association and greater detainment in the ER, whereas F971Sfs*7 mutation led to aberrant non‐ER localization. Both mutations caused suppressed cell viability, which was partially resulted from deficient/suppressed CSF1R‐ERK signaling.

Interpretation

In summary, our findings expand the mutation spectrum of these genes in leukodystrophies. Supported by in vitro validation of the pathogenicity of heterozygous CSF1R mutations, our data also provide insights into the pathogenic mechanisms of CSF1R‐related leukodystrophy.
Measurement Geometry and Hydrostatic Pressure‐Dependent Magnetoresistance in All‐Oxide‐Based Synthetic Antiferromagnets
Authors: Jin Feng , Shao Jifeng , Zhang Zixun , Zhang Wujun , Liu Kai , Li Jingyuan , Liu Kuan , Dai Kunjie , Wang Qing , Lv Qiming , Hua Enda , Chen Pingfan , Huang Zhen , Ma Chao , Wang Lingfei , Zhao Yue , Wu Wenbin
Published: July 2023

The electronic structure of constituent layers and the spin channel of propagating electrons are critical factors that affect the magnitude and sign of magnetoresistance (MR) in synthetic antiferromagnets (SAFMs), which are important for spintronic applications. However, for all‐oxide‐based SAFMs, where there is strong coupling between multiple degrees of freedom, spin transport becomes more complex and remains elusive. Here, using ultrathin half‐metallic manganite/doped ruthenate SAFMs as a model system, three sign reversals of MR are demonstrated accompanied by the crossover between underlying spin‐dependent transport mechanisms. Electron tunneling produces normal MR in the current‐perpendicular‐to‐plane (CPP) geometry at low temperatures, whereas carrier confinement causes inverse MR in the current‐in‐plane (CIP) geometry. Strikingly, CPP MR can undergo a temperature‐driven sign reversal due to resonant tunneling via localized states in the spacer. Moreover, hydrostatic pressure can modulate the interlayer exchange coupling and induce an asymmetric interfacial response to dramatically facilitate electron tunneling, driving a controllable sign reversal of CIP MR. These results provide new insights into understanding and optimization of MR in all‐oxide‐based SAFMs.
Multichannel Sonocatalysis Amplifiers Target IDH1‐Mutated Tumor Plasticity and Attenuate Ros Tolerance to Repress Malignant Cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Wang Duo , Zhu Xiaoqi , Wang Xiaobo , Wang Qin , Yan Kangning , Zeng Guichun , Qiu Guanhua , Jiao Rong , Lin Xia , Chen Jie , Yang Qiaoling , Qin Wen , Liu Junjie , Zhang Kun , Liu Yan
Published: July 2023

Tumor adaptation‐originated tumor tolerance that compensatory mechanisms (e.g., isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) mutation) jointly shape is the dominant obstacle of ROS therapy. Currently, targeting a single pathway fails to fundamentally reverse the complex milieu and diminish tumor adaptation. Herein, a multichannel sonocatalysis amplifier is engineered via one‐pot gas diffusion method to attenuate IDH1‐mutated cholangiocarcinoma plasticity and tolerance to ROS therapy, wherein triptolide and IR780 are co‐loaded in DSPE‐mPEG‐modified CaCO3 nanoparticles. Triptolide can blockade Nrf2 to cut off glutathione biosynthesis via blockading proteomic communication, and disrupt redox homeostasis to potentiate IR780‐mediated sonocatalytic ROS production. ROS‐induced mitochondria damages disrupt Ca2+ homeostasis and in turn aggravate ROS accumulation, which cooperates with sonocatalysis and Nrf2 blockade to reprogram mitochondrial energy and substance metabolism (e.g., adenosine triphosphatase and glutathione), hinder DNA self‐repair, and impair IDH1‐mutation‐asired tolerance. Systematic experiments support that these actions in such multichannel sonocatalysis amplifiers indeed disrupt Ca2+/redox homeostasis to disarm robust tumor plasticity and IDH1‐mutation‐induced tolerance to sonocatalysis therapy against IDH1‐mutated cholangiocarcinoma progression. Briefly, the sonocatalysis amplifiers pave a comprehensive avenue to reprogram tumor metabolism, target tumor vulnerability, and attenuate tumor plasticity against genomic instability‐raised treatment adaptation.
A Swing Self‐Regulated Triboelectric Nanogenerator for High‐Entropy Ocean Breaking Waves Energy Harvesting
Authors: Yang Yuhan , Zheng Lin , Wen Jing , Xing Fangjing , Liu Hui , Shang Yurui , Wang Zhong Lin , Chen Baodong
Published: July 2023

Multidirectional irregular breaking wave is the most prominent feature of the ocean surface and bears tremendous amounts of sustainable high‐entropy energy. However, the commercial utilization and harvesting efficiency are very limited low due to its low‐frequency and low‐amplitude. Here, a swing self‐regulated triboelectric nanogenerator (SSR‐TENG) is proposed, which can convert collected low‐grade breaking waves energy into electrical energy by regulating the oscillation frequency and resonance effect. Benefiting from simple and efficient structural strategy, SSR‐TENG outputs a peak power of 0.14 mW under wave height range of 6–11 cm, that the open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current and transferred charge increases is 5.8, 4, and 3.7 times compared to without self‐regulated design, respectively. This work gives a practical solution to the problems faced by harvesting high‐entropy ocean breaking waves energy, which exhibits large potential for building the self‐powered ocean assessment and meteorology system in the future.
Selective Chemical Reactivity of Non‐Fullerene Acceptor for Photoelectrochemical Bioassay of Urease Activity
Authors: Xiao Runshi , Yu Han , Liu Mingwang , Xu Wentao , Qin Ying , Tan Rong , Chen Yuanxing , Wen Jing , Peng Xiang , Gu Wenling , Zhu Chengzhou , Hu Liuyong
Published: July 2023

Non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) are a crucial component of organic photovoltaics, and they have gained significant attention due to their outstanding photoelectric conversion efficiency. However, the recognition reactions of specific building blocks in NFAs are largely overlooked in the construction of photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing platforms. In this study, the potential of Y6, a prototype NFA, is explored to construct a sensitive PEC biosensor for monitoring urease activity due to the selective chemical reactivity of its organic building blocks. The resultant biosensor relies on the urease‐mediated enzymatic reaction, which produces OH− anions that act as a nucleophilic reagent for the linkage of C═C in the Y6 moiety. This results in the formation of Y6‐OH, which exhibits a depressive photoelectric response due to the destroyed conjugated structure and intramolecular charge transfer. As expected, a linear relationship is observed between the recession of photoelectric performance and the concentration of urease, with good sensitivity and selectivity. Furthermore, urease activity detection is also successfully realized in human saliva samples, suggesting the promising potential of NFA‐based PEC biosensors for clinical applications even in the absence of common biological recognition units.
2D Antiferroelectric Hybrid Perovskite with a Large Breakdown Electric Field And Energy Storage Density
Authors: Li Lingli , Li Xiaoqi , Li Yizhuo , Huang Biaohong , Qi Ji , Acharya Khimananda , Zhang Lei , Wang Zhaosheng , Yang Teng , Han Zheng , Li Bing , Jiang Xiaoming , Paudel Tula R , Hu Weijin , Zhang Zhidong
Published: July 2023

Energy conversion and storage devices are highly desirable for the sustainable development of human society. Hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites have shown great potential in energy conversion devices including solar cells and photodetectors. However, its potential in energy storage has seldom been explored. Here the crystal structure and electrical properties of the 2D hybrid perovskite (benzylammonium)2PbBr4 (PVK‐Br) are investigated, and the consecutive ferroelectric‐I (FE1) to ferroelectric‐II (FE2) then to antiferroelectric (AFE) transitions that are driven by the orderly alignment of benzylamine and the distortion of [PbBr6] octahedra are found. Furthermore, accompanied by field‐induced AFE to FE transition near room temperature, a large energy storage density of ≈1.7 J cm−3 and a wide working temperature span of ≈70 K are obtained; both of which are among the best in hybrid AFEs. This good energy storage performance is attributed to the large polarization of ≈7.6 µC cm−2 and the high maximum electric field of over 1000 kV cm−1, which, as revealed by theoretical calculations, originate from the cooperative coupling between the [PbBr6] octahedral framework and the benzylamine molecules. The research clarifies the discrepancy in the phase transition character of PVK‐Br and shed light on developing high‐performance energy storage devices based on 2D hybrid perovskite.
Tenfold Enhancement in Light Emission from Low‐Temperature Operational Doped OLEDs by Detrapping Super‐Long‐Lived Trapped Charges
Authors: Chen Jing , Zhao Xi , Wang Huiyao , Jiang Yunxi , Tang Xiantong , Wu Yuting , Wei Fuxian , Xiong Zuhong
Published: July 2023

Although doping organic fluorophores into host matrix is a common way to obtain high‐efficiency organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), trapped charges are often observed on dopant molecules that are considered to be detrimental to the further enhancement of their photoelectric performances. Surprisingly, trapped charges with a super‐long lifetime of >2 h are detected in doped OLEDs operated at 20 K, which has never been discovered previously in the literature. However, the observations demonstrate that the longer lifetimes of these trapped charges are primarily governed by the larger spacing distances between trapped electrons and holes, rather than being solely determined by the well‐accepted energy‐level depth of trap states. More amazingly, compared with the device driven only by a conventional constant voltage source, a tenfold enhancement in light emission is achieved in low‐temperature operational doped OLEDs powered by an alternating positive and negative pulse voltage, because the applied negative pulse voltage can assist these super‐long‐lived trapped electrons and holes to detrap and then recombine with each other for producing enhanced light‐emission. Therefore, this study clarifies the dynamic behaviors of trapped charges and paves the pathway for obtaining high‐performance OLEDs working in low‐temperature circumstances such as outer‐space or aerospace fields.
Electrocatalysis of Fe‐N‐C Bonds Driving Reliable Interphase and Fast Kinetics for Phosphorus Anode in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Ge Junmin , Ma Cunshuang , Wan Yanhua , Tang Guochuan , Dai Hongliu , Sun Shuhui , Chen Weihua
Published: July 2023

Phosphorus exhibits high capacity and low redox potential, making it a promising anode material for future sodium‐ion batteries. However, its practical applications are confined by poor durability and sluggish kinetics. Herein, an innovative in‐situ electrochemically self‐driven strategy is presented to embed phosphorus nanocrystal (≈10 nm) into a Fe‐N‐C‐rich 3D carbon framework (P/Fe‐N‐C). This strategy enables rapid and high‐capacity sodium ion storage. Through a combination of experimental assistance and theoretical calculations, a novel synergistic catalytic mechanism of Fe‐N‐C is reasonably proposed. In detail, the electrochemical formation of Fe‐N‐C catalytic sites facilitates the release of fluorine in ester‐based electrolyte, inducing Na+‐conducting‐enhanced solid‐electrolyte interphase. Furthermore, it also effectively induces the dissociation energy of the P‐P bond and promotes the reaction kinetics of P anode. As a result, the unconventional P/Fe‐N‐C anode demonstrates outstanding rate‐capability (267 mAh g−1 at 100 A g−1) and cycling stability (72%, 10 000 cycles). Notably, the assembled pouch cell achieves high‐energy density of 220 Wh kg−1.
A Metal‐Organic Framework Incorporating Eight Different Size Rare‐Earth Metal Elements: Toward Multifunctionality À La Carte
Authors: Li Zhen , Li Xiao‐Bao , Light Mark E. , Carrillo Anna E. , Arauzo Ana , Valvidares Manuel , Roscini Claudio , Teixidor Francesc , Viñas Clara , Gándara Felipe , Bartolomé Elena , Planas José Giner
Published: July 2023

Multi‐metallic multivariate (MTV) rare earth (RE) metal−organic frameworks (MOFs) are of interest for the development of multifunctional materials, however examples with more than three RE cations are rare and obstructed by compositional segregation during synthesis. Herein, this work demonstrates the synthesis of a multi‐metallic MTV RE MOF incorporating two, four, six, or eight different RE ions with different sizes and in nearly equimolar amounts and no compositional segregation. The MOFs are formed by a combination of RE cations (La, Ce, Eu, Gd, Tb, Dy, Y, and Yb) and a 1,7‐di(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐1,7‐dicarba‐closo‐dodecaborane (mCB‐L) linker. The steric bulkiness and acidity of mCB‐L is crucial for the incorporation of different size RE ions into the MOF structure. Demonstration of the incorporation of all RE cations is performed via compositional and structural characterization. The more complex MTV MOF, including all eight RE ions (mCB‐8RE), are also characterized using optical, thermal, and magnetic techniques. Element‐selective X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and X‐ray Magnetic Circular Dichroism measurements allow us to characterize spectroscopically each of the eight RE ions and determine their magnetic moments. This work paves the way for the investigation of MTV MOFs with the possibility to combine RE ions à la carte for diverse applications.
Boosting Efficient and Sustainable Alkaline Water Oxidation on a W‐CoOOH‐TT Pair‐Sites Catalyst Synthesized via Topochemical Transformation
Authors: Wang Ligang , Su Hui , Tan Guoying , Xin Junjie , Wang Xiaoge , Zhang Zhuang , Li Yaping , Qiu Yi , Li Xiaohui , Li Haisheng , Ju Jing , Duan Xinxuan , Xiao Hai , Chen Wenxing , Liu Qinghua , Sun Xiaoming , Wang Dingsheng , Sun Junliang
Published: July 2023

The development of facile methods for constructing highly active, cost‐effective catalysts that meet ampere‐level current density and durability requirements for an oxygen evolution reaction is crucial. Herein, a general topochemical transformation strategy is posited: M‐Co9S8 single‐atom catalysts (SACs) are directly converted into M‐CoOOH‐TT (M = W, Mo, Mn, V) pair‐sites catalysts under the role of incorporating of atomically dispersed high‐valence metals modulators through potential cycling. Furthermore, in situ X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy is used to track the dynamic topochemical transformation process at the atomic level. The W‐Co9S8 breaks through the low overpotential of 160 mV at 10 mA cm−2. A series of pair‐site catalysts exhibit a large current density of approaching 1760 mA cm−2 at 1.68 V vs reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) in alkaline water oxidation and achieve a ≈240‐fold enhancement in the normalized intrinsic activity compare to that reported CoOOH, and sustainable stability of 1000 h. Moreover, the O─O bond formation is confirmed via a two‐site mechanism, supported by in situ synchrotron radiation infrared and density functional theory (DFT) simulations, which breaks the limit of adsorption‐energy scaling relationship on conventional single‐site.
A 3D‐Printed Ferromagnetic Liquid Crystal Elastomer with Programmed Dual‐Anisotropy and Multi‐Responsiveness
Authors: Sun Yuxuan , Wang Liu , Zhu Zhengqing , Li Xingxiang , Sun Hong , Zhao Yong , Peng Chenhui , Liu Ji , Zhang Shiwu , Li Mujun
Published: July 2023

Liquid crystal elastomers (LCE) and magnetic soft materials are promising active materials in many emerging fields, such as soft robotics. Despite the high demand for developing active materials that combine the advantages of LCE and magnetic actuation, the lack of independent programming of the LCE nematic order and magnetization in a single material still hinders the desired multi‐responsiveness. In this study, a ferromagnetic LCE (magLCE) ink with nematic order and magnetization is developed that can be independently programmed to be anisotropic, referred to as “dual anisotropy”, via a customized 3D‐printing platform. The magLCE ink is fabricated by dispersing ferromagnetic microparticles in the LCE matrix, and a 3D‐printing platform is created by integrating a magnet with 3‐DoF motion into an extrusion‐based 3D printer. In addition to magnetic fields, magLCEs can also be actuated by heating sources (either environmental heating or photo‐heating of the embedded ferromagnetic microparticles) with a high energy density and tunable actuation temperature. A programmed magLCE strip robot is demonstrated with enhanced adaptability to complex environments (different terrains, magnetic fields, and temperatures) using a multi‐actuation strategy. The magLCE also has potential applications in mechanical memory, as demonstrated by the multistable mechanical metastructure array with remote writability and stable memory.
An Ultrahighly Stretchable and Recyclable Starch‐Based Gel with Multiple Functions
Authors: Hu Ruofei , Yang Xiaoxuan , Cui Wenxiu , Leng Linfei , Zhao Xueyan , Ji Guochen , Zhao Jing , Zhu Qingzeng , Zheng Junping
Published: July 2023

With the development of various gel‐based flexible sensors, novel gels with multiple integrated and efficient properties, particularly recyclability, have been developed. Herein, a starch‐based ADM (amylopectin (AP)–poly(3‐[dimethyl‐[2‐(2‐methylprop‐2‐ enoyloxy)ethyl]azaniumyl]propane‐1‐sulfonate) (PDMAPS)–MXene) gel is prepared by a facile “cooking” strategy accompanying the gelatinization of AP and polymerization reaction of zwitterionic monomers. Reversible crosslinking in the gel occurs through hydrogen bonding and electrostatic interactions. The ADM gel exhibits high stretchability (≈2700%, after one month), swift self‐healing performance, self‐adhesive properties, favorable freezing resistance, and satisfactory moisturizing properties (≥30 days). Interestingly, the ADM gel can be recycled and reused by a “kneading” method and “dissolution–dialysis” process, respectively. Furthermore, the ADM gel can be assembled as a strain sensor with a broad working strain range (≈800%) and quick response time (response time 211 ms and recovery time 253 ms, under 10% strain) to detect various macro‐ and micro‐human‐motions, even under harsh conditions such as pronunciation and handwriting. The ADM gel can also be used as a humidity sensor to investigate humidity and human respiratory status, suggesting its practical application in personal health management. This study provides a novel strategy for the preparation of high‐performance recycled gels and flexible sensors.
Bioinspired Integrated Auxetic Elastomers Constructed by a Dual Dynamic Interfacial Healing Strategy
Authors: Zheng Zhiran , Li Jiawei , Wei Kailun , Tang Ning , Li Min‐Hui , Hu Jun
Published: July 2023

Auxetic materials are appealing due to their unique characteristics of transverse expansion while being axially stretched. Nevertheless, current auxetic materials are often produced by the introduction of diverse geometric structures through cutting or other pore‐making processes, which heavily weaken their mechanical performance. Inspired by the skeleton‐matrix structures in natural organisms, this study reports an integrated auxetic elastomer (IAE) composed of high‐modulus cross‐linked poly(urethane‐urea) as a skeleton and low‐modulus non‐cross‐linked poly(urethane‐urea) as a complementary‐shape matrix. Benefiting from disulfide bonds and hydrogen‐bond‐promoted dual dynamic interfacial healing, the resulting IAE is flat, void‐free, and has no sharp soft‐to‐hard interface. Its fracture strength and elongation at the break are increased to 400% and 150%, respectively, of the values of corrugated re‐entrant skeleton alone, while the negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) reserves within a strain range of 0%–104%. In addition, the advantageous mechanical and auxetic properties of this elastomer are further confirmed by finite element analysis. The concept of combining two dissimilar polymers into an integrated hybrid material solves the problem of the deterioration in mechanical performance of auxetic materials after subtractive manufacturing, while preserves the NPR effect in a large deformation, which provides a promising approach to robust auxetic materials for engineering applications.
Engineered Living Materials for Advanced Diseases Therapy
Authors: Dong Xue , Wu Wei , Pan Pei , Zhang Xian‐Zheng
Published: July 2023

Natural living materials serving as biotherapeutics exhibit great potential for treating various diseases owing to their immunoactivity, tissue targeting, and other biological activities. In this review, the recent developments in engineered living materials, including mammalian cells, bacteria, viruses, fungi, microalgae, plants, and their active derivatives that are used for treating various diseases are summarized. Further, the future perspectives and challenges of such engineered living material‐based biotherapeutics are discussed to provide considerations for future advances in biomedical applications.
3D Multiscale Lithium‐Ion Cell Modeling for LiFePO4Freeze‐Casted Electrode Structures Using Synchrotron X‐Ray and FIB/SEM Tomography
Authors: Franke‐Lang Robert , Hilger André , Manke Ingo , Zavareh Sara , Bekheet Maged F. , Gurlo Aleksander , Kowal Julia
Published: July 2023

The performance of batteries and the associated operating areas depend, among other things, on the 3D microstructures of the electrode materials, and thus fundamental research is required in the field of electrode design. A multiscale microstructure‐resolved 3D model is developed that investigates two different LiFePO4freeze‐casted electrode structures, that is, cellular and lamellar. The microstructure is simulated directly from the X‐ray computed tomography data and the nanostructure is combined with the pseudo‐2D simulation approach, where the morphological parameters and the distribution of the binder, carbon, and LiFePO4are obtained from ex situ focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy measurements. The discharge performance shows that the lamellar structure exhibits a lower ohmic overvoltage and achieves a higher gravimetric capacity compared to the cellular structure, even though both electrode materials have the same porosity and amount of active material. The simulation reveals that the performance is not only directly influenced by the lithium‐ion transport through the porous structure but also by the current distribution through the active material. Based on these insights, lamellar electrode structures should be considered for next‐generation battery electrodes. The modeling approach can assist in electrode fabrication by identifying defects or suggesting better structural parameters.
Targeting Lymph Nodes for Systemic Immunosuppression Using Cell‐Free‐DNA‐Scavenging And cGAS‐Inhibiting Nanomedicine‐In‐Hydrogel for Rheumatoid Arthritis Immunotherapy
Authors: Cheng Furong , Su Ting , Liu Yangtengyu , Zhou Shurong , Qi Jialong , Guo Weisheng , Zhu Guizhi
Published: July 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease with pathogenic inflammation caused partly by excessive cell‐free DNA (cfDNA). Specifically, cfDNA is internalized into immune cells, such as macrophages in lymphoid tissues and joints, and activates pattern recognition receptors, including cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate synthase (cGAS), resulting in overly strong proinflammation. Here, nanomedicine‐in‐hydrogel (NiH) is reported that co‐delivers cGAS inhibitor RU.521 (RU) and cfDNA‐scavenging cationic nanoparticles (cNPs) to draining lymph nodes (LNs) for systemic immunosuppression in RA therapy. Upon subcutaneous injection, NiH prolongs LN retention of RU and cNPs, which pharmacologically inhibit cGAS and scavenged cfDNA, respectively, to inhibit proinflammation. NiH elicits systemic immunosuppression, repolarizes macrophages, increases fractions of immunosuppressive cells, and decreases fractions of CD4+ T cells and T helper 17 cells. Such skewed immune milieu allows NiH to significantly inhibit RA progression in collagen‐induced arthritis mice. These studies underscore the great potential of NiH for RA immunotherapy.
Weakly Interacting Molecular Spins in On‐Surface Synthesized Nanoclusters on a Graphene Oxide Nanosheet
Authors: Sakurai Makoto , Ueta Tsuyoshi , Joachim Christian
Published: July 2023

With an average diameter of ≈2 nm, on‐surface synthesized amino‐ferrocene nanoclusters are chemisorbed onto a graphene oxide nanosheet, where their Fe ions are in an S = 5/2 high‐spin state. In this two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterial, the molecular spins in a given nanocluster are weakly magnetic dipole interacting. It generates spin correlations and slow dynamics accessible by magnetic susceptibility and Mössbauer spectroscopy at a temperature where the magnetic anisotropy is negligible. Magnetic simulations show that minimizing their magnetic dipole energies produces spatially entangled structures of the spin orientations under thermal fluctuations at T ≲ 15 K and that the structures behave like a spin liquid. The competition between the formation of the structures and their thermal destruction generates slow dynamics. The ability to create emergent functionalities from dense stacks of weakly interacting magnetic molecules in a 2 nm space paves the way for new designs of an ultra‐compact building block and a functional component in 2D spintronic and neuromorphic devices.
“It Was Broken Here Before”: Present day impact of historical trauma in telemental health services in a rural and remote Aleutian Islands Community
Authors: Marvin Alicia F. , Vale Sharnel , Green Seth , Holman Mark V.
Published: July 2023

Telemental health technology is a feasible tool for providing behavioral healthcare in rural areas. However, there is scant literature about implementing this technology within Indigenous populations. The Aleutian Pribilof Islands Association is an urban‐based Tribal Health Organization in Alaska tasked with providing behavioral health services to remote Unangax̂ communities. To expand telemental health services, a formative program evaluation was conducted to examine the acceptability of and barriers to implementing telemental health. Using a qualitative approach, five individuals with lived experience in the same community were interviewed using a semi‐structured format. Data were analyzed using critical thematic analysis and situated within the context of historical trauma. Five themes were constructed that showed broken trust as the primary barrier to services, despite the substantial obstacles related to communications infrastructure. When situated within the context of historical trauma, the results show how colonization spurred and has maintained broken trust. The clinical, research, and policy implications resulting from this study point to the need for decolonization and integration of culture in behavioral health services. These findings can be informative for organizations and providers seeking to implement telemental health in Indigenous communities.
A Black feminist youth participatory action research photovoice exploration of Black girls and college women
Authors: Payne Ashley N.
Published: July 2023

Utilizing a Black and Hip Hop feminist and Black girlhood studies theoretical lens, the purpose of this study is to explore how Black girls (14–17) and women (19–22), who are in a youth participatory action research (YPAR) mentoring program, BlackGirlsResearch (pseudonym) express their gendered racial identities and gendered racial experiences through their participation in a YPAR photovoice program. This study seeks to answer the following research question: (1) How do Black girls and college women conceptualize their gendered racial identities and gendered racial lived experiences in predominately white schools using a YPAR methodology and photovoice? Employing a qualitative thematic analysis to explore 36 photovoice narratives, results yielded 3 themes: (1) experiencing challenges at predominately white institutions (PWIs): false inclusivity, continued underrepresentation, and tokenism (2) identifying as “queens of culture”: identity and empowerment through art, culture, and breaking conformity and (3) activism, inclusion, and accountability: solutions for PWIs. The results of this study indicate that Black girls and women can not only identify and critically discuss issues related to Black girls and women within PWIs, but through YPAR, they can push for positive youth development and community solutions related to those issues.
Clinical and molecular heterogeneity of syndromic hypothalamic hamartoma
Authors: Bönnemann Carsten G. , Krishnamoorthy Kalpathy S. , Johnston Jennifer J. , Lee Mary M. , Fowler Darren J. , Biesecker Leslie G. , Holmes Lewis B.
Published: July 2023

Two children are presented who have a distinct syndrome of multiple buccolingual frenula, a stiff and short fifth finger with small nails, a hypothalamic hamartoma, mild to moderate neurological impairment, and mild endocrinological symptoms. No variant assessed to be pathogenic or likely pathogenic was detected in theGLI3gene in either child. This syndrome appears to be distinct from the inherited Pallister–Hall syndrome associated withGLI3variants, which is characterized by hypothalamic hamartoma, mesoaxial polydactyly, and other anomalies. In the individuals described here, manifestations outside of the central nervous system were milder and the mesoaxial polydactyly, which is common in individuals with Pallister–Hall syndrome, was absent. Instead, these children had multiple buccolingual frenula together with the unusual appearance of the fifth digit. It remains unclear whether these two individuals represent a separate nosologic entity or if they represent a milder manifestation of one of the more severe syndromes associated with a hypothalamic hamartoma.
Promoter‐Controlled Synthesis and Conformational Analysis of Cyclic Mannosides up to a 32‐mer
Authors: Li Xiaona , Di Carluccio Cristina , Miao He , Zhang Lvfeng , Shang Jintao , Molinaro Antonio , Xu Peng , Silipo Alba , Yu Biao , Yang You
Published: July 2023

Cyclodextrins are widely used as carriers of small molecules for drug delivery owing to their remarkable host properties and excellent biocompatibility. However, cyclic oligosaccharides with different sizes and shapes are limited. Cycloglycosylation of ultra‐large bifunctional saccharide precursors is challenging due to the constrained conformational spaces. Herein we report a promoter‐controlled cycloglycosylation approach for the synthesis of cyclic α‐(1→6)‐linked mannosides up to a 32‐mer. Cycloglycosylation of the bifunctional thioglycosides and (Z)‐ynenoates was found to be highly dependent on the promoters. In particular, a sufficient amount of a gold(I) complex played a key role in the proper preorganization of the ultra‐large cyclic transition state, providing a cyclic 32‐mer polymannoside, which represents the largest synthetic cyclic polysaccharide to date. NMR experiments and a computational study revealed that the cyclic 2‐mer, 4‐mer, 8‐mer, 16‐mer, and 32‐mer mannosides adopted different conformational states and shapes.