bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spontaneous Inflammation Resolution Inspired Nanoparticles Promote Neutrophil Apoptosis and Macrophage Efferocytosis for Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Treatment
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhang Ling‐Feng , Zhang Jiao‐Jiao , Yu Si‐Si , Li Wen‐Ling , Zhou Tian‐Jiao , Xing Lei , Jeong Jee‐Heon , Jiang Hu‐Lin
Published: December 2024

During acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), delayed apoptosis of neutrophils and impaired efferocytosis of macrophages constitute two critical limiting steps, leading to secondary inflammatory storm and posing a significant threat to human health. However, due to the failure of previous single target‐centric treatments to effectively address these two limiting steps in controlling the inflammatory storm, no available therapies are approved for ARDS treatment. Herein, inspired by spontaneous inflammation resolution, two kinds of Apoptosis and Efferocytosis Restored Nanoparticles (AER NPs) are proposed to overcome these two limiting steps for counteracting severe inflammatory storm. For the first limiting step, neutrophil‐targeted apoptosis‐restored nanoparticles (AR NPs) accelerated the programmed apoptosis of inflammatory neutrophils. The resolution of the first limiting step facilitated the accumulation of macrophage‐targeted and efferocytosis‐restored nanoparticles (ER NPs), thereby restoring macrophage efferocytosis and alleviating the second limiting step. The results indicated that after sequential treatment with AER NPs, recruited neutrophils decreased to 13.86%, and macrophage efferocytosis increased to 563.24%. AER NPs promoted inflammation resolution and established a self‐healing virtuous loop by addressing the two limiting steps, ultimately effectively treating ARDS. This work suggests that a strategy inspired by inflammation resolution holds promise as a potential approach for advancing inflammation therapy.
Programmable DNA Hydrogels with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Cisplatin for Diagnosis and Treatment of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhao Dan , Liu Lin , Wang Gang Ping , Cheng Xi
Published: December 2024

This study explores the potential of DNA hydrogels as a novel approach for diagnosing and treating Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma (OSCC). In the experiment, DNA hydrogels are synthesized and loaded with Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and Cisplatin. In vitro experiments evaluated drug delivery efficacy and the effect on cancer cell viability. In vivo, studies used mice models to assess the therapeutic potential and antimicrobial activity of the DNA hydrogels. Results demonstrate that DNA hydrogels significantly improve the delivery of Cisplatin to cancer cells, potentially allowing for lower drug doses and reduced side effects. The combination of Cisplatin and ZnO NPs show the most potent antibacterial effect against bacterial strains associated with OSCC. Analysis indicates that ZnO NPs within the hydrogels improve the efficacy of contrast agents, facilitating earlier and more accurate tumor diagnosis. The findings highlight that DNA hydrogels loaded with therapeutic agents can enhance drug delivery and reduce side effects, while ZnO NPs improve tumor diagnosis. DNA hydrogels may represent a promising patient‐centric approach for more effective OSCC treatment.
Self‐Poled Bismuth Ferrite Thin Film Micromachined for Piezoelectric Ultrasound Transducers
Authors: Liu Tong , Yang Changhong , Si Jingxiang , Sun Wei , Su Daojian , Li Chenglong , Yuan Xiufang , Huang Shifeng , Cheng Xin , Cheng Zhenxiang
Published: December 2024

Piezoelectric micromachined ultrasound transducers (pMUTs), especially those using lead‐free materials, are crucial next‐generation microdevices for precise actuation and sensing, driving advancements in medical, industrial, and environmental applications. Bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) is emerging as a promising lead‐free piezoelectric material to replace Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 in pMUTs. Despite its potential, the integration of BiFeO3 thin films into pMUTs has been hindered by poling issues. Here, a BiFeO3 heterostructure compositionally downgraded with Gd doping is developed to introduce compressive strain, resulting in strong self‐poling. Utilizing a large‐area self‐poled thin film over an entire 6‐inch wafer, a pMUT with a 6 × 6 array at the device level is designed and evaluated. At a resonant frequency of 21 kHz, the dynamic vibration displacement can reach 24.0 nm. At 500 Hz, far below the resonant frequency of 21 kHz, the pMUT also displays sensitive converse piezoelectric response, even at a high temperature of 200 °C. This work represents a significant breakthrough in lead‐free BiFeO3 thin film for practical sensing applications, paving the way for the transformation of macro‐transducers into next‐generation functional microdevices.
Antifouling Immunomodulatory Copolymer Architectures That Inhibit the Fibrosis of Implants
Authors: Jeang William J. , Wong Bryan M. , Zhao Yichao , Manan Rajith S. , Jiang Alexis L. , Bose Suman , Collins Evan , McMullen Patrick , Rosenboom Jan‐Georg , Lathwal Sushil , Langer Robert , Anderson Daniel G.
Published: December 2024

Immune reactions to medical implants often lead to encapsulation by fibrotic tissue and impaired device function. This process is thought to initiate by protein adsorption, which enables immune cells to attach and mount an inflammatory response. Previously, several antifibrotic materials have been either designed to reduce protein adsorption or discovered via high‐throughput screens (HTS) to favorably regulate inflammation. The present work introduces antifouling immunomodulatory (AIM) copolymer coatings, which combine both strategies to effectively enhance implant protection. AIM copolymers synergistically integrate zwitterionic moieties to resist protein fouling, HTS‐derived antifibrotics for immunomodulation, and silane monomers for grafting to diverse substrates including elastomers, ceramics, and metals. Interestingly, simply combining these monomers into conventional random or block copolymer architectures yielded no significant advantage over homopolymers. By contrast, an unusual polymer chain architecture — a zwitterionic block flanked by a mixed zwitterionic immunomodulatory segment — showed superior fibrosis resistance in both peritoneal and subcutaneous sites over one month in immunocompetent mice. This architecture also improved the performance of two different HTS‐derived antifibrotic monomers, suggesting that tailoring AIM architectures may broadly complement immunomodulatory chemistries and provide a versatile approach to improving implant longevity.
Birefringent Color Filter by Layered Metal‐Organic Chalcogenides: In‐Plane Anisotropy and Odd/Even Effect
Authors: Ye Zichao , Zhao Jie , Kang Kisung , McCormack Scott J. , Shao Yu‐Tsun , Efremov Mikhail Y. , Schleife André , Kriven Waltraud M. , Zuo Jian‐Min , Allen Leslie H.
Published: December 2024

Anisotropic 2D materials are gaining interest recently as building blocks for angular‐dependent optical/electrical devices. However, the fundamental understanding of their structure‐property‐relationship is limited, which hinders further modulation of their unique characteristics via structure tailoring. Here the in‐plane structural anisotropy and the tunable optical/electrical properties of a series of radiation‐sensitive (X‐ray, e‐beam) metal‐organic chalcogenide (MOC) single crystals are comprehensively revealed with ligands of variable length/parity. Their monoclinic crystallography is determined at atomic resolution by a simple method that couples X‐ray/electron diffraction with first‐principles calculations. The in‐plane inorganic backbone of the MOCs exhibits a strong lattice anisotropy with odd/even alternations, which originates from that of the out‐of‐plane organic motifs via organic/inorganic accommodation. Such structural anisotropy is implied mechanically by the preferred orientation of crystal cleavage. It triggers a maximum ≈8 × distinction of in‐plane electrical conductivity of the semiconducting MOCs, plus a distinct birefringence (maximum Δn ≈ 0.03) with a dispersive orientation of dielectric axes, which rotate up to 25.7° from UV to visible‐light regime, inspiring an emerging pathway for color filtering via single crystal rotation. Such in‐plane optical characteristics also exhibit odd/even alternation and can be flexibly tuned by the designable out‐of‐plane ligands.
Suppressing the Jahn‐Teller Effect in 0D Manganese‐Based Perovskite Derivatives for Transparent and Flexible Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Cai Yangyang , Yan Siyu , Du Xinran , Lin Tingting , Lin Yue‐jian , Qiu Longzhen , Wang Weizhi
Published: December 2024

The development of stable and deformation‐free crystal structures of perovskites and their derivatives are crucial for electroluminescent devices. In this article, a novel transparent manganese‐based perovskite derivative K4MnBr1.33Cl4.67 is synthesized with mixed halogens. For the unique octahedral crystal structure, the Jahn‐Teller distortion, typically present in such structures, is completely suppressed, resulting in high environmental stability of the luminescence spectrum. In transparent flexible devices, the peak current density, average external quantum efficiency on each side and maximum brightness is 45 mA cm−2, 4.9%, and 2800 cd m−2, respectively. The best half‐life of the LED reaches 10 h with a starting luminance of 100 cd m−2. As the first lead‐free transparent flexible perovskite derivative LED, it features an outstanding transparency of 76% and excellent flexibility with a luminescence intensity maintenance of 90% after 2000 bending cycles. This work shows that lead‐free manganese perovskite derivatives can provide a promising way to fabricate stable and high‐performance LEDs.
Fast‐Response and High‐Color‐Purity RGB Fluorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes for Visible Light Communication System
Authors: Jung Seo‐Hee , Lee Kyumi , Lee Hanbeen , Choi Rino , Lee Jeong‐Hwan
Published: December 2024

The integration of red, green, and blue (RGB) organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) is pursued to achieve a significant advancement in high‐speed visible light communication (VLC). With their rapid decay rates of less than a few nanoseconds, fluorescent emitters enable fast data transmission by facilitating prompt emission. Here, by implementing a top‐emitting architecture with a strong cavity, the spectral crosstalk among RGB colors is addressed by narrowing the spectra and enhancing the bandwidth of fluorescent OLEDs. Furthermore, a co‐emitter configuration improves the optoelectrical characteristics of OLEDs by improving horizontal transition dipole ratios and photoluminescence quantum yield. With fluorescent emitters exhibiting nanosecond‐level decay times, the proposed OLED platform achieves an order of magnitude increase in a −3 dB cut‐off frequency exceeding 1 MHz across all RGB channels compared to phosphorescent and thermally activated delayed fluorescent OLEDs. These findings underscore the potential of OLED technology to advance high‐speed visible light communication systems, paving the way for enhanced data transmission capabilities.
Correlative Super‐Resolution Imaging of Cellular Nanopores Facilitated by Transparent Polymer Waveguide Chips
Authors: Dutta Surjendu Bikash , Schürstedt‐Seher Jasmin Celine , Engdahl Anders Kokkvoll , Hübner Wolfgang , Belle Stefan , Szafranska Karolina , McCourt Peter , Hellmann Ralf , Schüttpelz Mark , Huser Thomas
Published: December 2024

Super‐resolution optical microscopy (SRM) permits the visualization of subcellular structures of biological samples beyond the diffraction limit of light. To evaluate and utilize the specific strengths of each SRM technique a combined approach in the form of correlative super‐resolution imaging is essential. Here, the correlative SRM imaging of the ultrastructure of rat liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) across a large field of view (FOV) with 3D structured illumination microscopy (3D‐SIM) and single‐molecule localization microscopy (SMLM), facilitated by a transparent polymer photonic waveguide chip, is presented. This waveguide is not only used for chip‐based total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) excitation across a large FOV, but also enables the excitation and collection of single‐molecule fluorescence via the inverted microscope configuration. Furthermore, the structural design of the waveguides allows to identify and correlate sample positions across multiple microscopes. This correlative SIM and multi‐modality SMLM imaging provides a high throughput (FOV of ≈180 µm × 120 µm) method to analyze the structural morphology of LSECs with high spatial resolution (≈50 nm). Furthermore, waveguide chip‐based TIRF excitation also yields a significant reduction of background signals.
Single‐Threshold Amplified Spontaneous Emission in the Absence of Photon Gain in MAPbBr3 Planar Waveguides
Authors: Simbula Angelica , Pitzalis Federico , Pau Riccardo , Cadeddu Emanuele D. , Wu Luyan , Lai Stefano , Liu Fang , Matta Selene , Demontis Valeria , Marongiu Daniela , Pintus Paolo , Quochi Francesco , Saba Michele , Mura Andrea , Bongiovanni Giovanni
Published: December 2024

Metal halide perovskites have emerged as promising materials for low‐threshold lasers, ideally suited for integrated optical circuits due to their easy fabrication, tunable wavelength, and seamless on‐chip integration. Exciton lasing, electron‐hole population inversion, polariton condensation and superfluorescence have been proposed to explain the low threshold. Fundamental to discriminate lasing mechanisms is the knowledge of the material's absorption/gain spectrum in the stimulated emission regime, a difficult experimental task in microcavities and metasurfaces. In this study, femtosecond tandem spectroscopy applied to MAPbBr3 planar waveguides enables the measurement of material absorption and gain spectra at any carrier density, as well as directly monitoring the matter component of hybrid excitations. Results demonstrate that stimulated emission always involves hybrid electron‐hole‐photon excitations in the absence of photon gain, even at the highest excitations when the exciton resonance is completely bleached, a characteristic almost unique in the landscape of photonic materials. Parameter‐free numerical simulations show that MAPbBr3 waveguides support electromagnetic modes with an exciton‐polariton‐like dispersion below the bandgap at all investigated carrier densities. These excitations combine the advantages of hybrid light‐matter states‐ namely, lower stimulated emission thresholds and higher nonlinearities‐ with the robustness of photon amplification, seamlessly extending potential applications from low to high carrier densities.
Chemical Vapor Deposition Growth of Ternary Cu3PS4 Nanowires for Polarization‐Sensitive Photodetection
Authors: Kong Denan , Dong Weikang , Yu Hongbin , Zhao Chunyu , Zhao Yang , Yang Yang , Fu Longyi , Jia Lin , Wang Ping , Liu Jijian , Zheng Shoujun , Xiong Yan , Liu Ruibin , Zhou Yao , Zhou Jiadong
Published: December 2024

Low‐dimensional ternary materials with low‐symmetry structure have emerged as promising candidates for constructing polarization‐sensitive photodetectors. However, the photodetection applications of ternary materials remain challenging due to the limited varieties and the uncontrollable preparation. Herein, ternary Cu3PS4 nanowires with tunable thickness are successfully synthesized via chemical vapor deposition method. The grown Cu3PS4 nanowires present excellent structural anisotropy and strong in‐plane second‐order nonlinear optical anisotropy, as evidenced by angle‐resolved polarized Raman spectra and second harmonic generation measurements. Impressively, Cu3PS4‐based photodetector demonstrates a responsivity of 8.8 mAW−1, detectivity of 5.01 × 109 Jones, and photoresponse speeds with rise (decay) time of 1.5 (3.5) ms. Interestingly, the photodetector achieves polarization‐sensitivity photoresponse with an anisotropic ratio of 1.3 at 520 nm based on its inherent structural anisotropy and geometrical shapes. This work broadens the scope of synthesis strategy for various low‐dimensional ternary metal chalcohalide semiconductors and provides great opportunities for designing high‐performance and multifunctional optoelectronic devices.
Enhanced Circularly Polarized Luminescence Modulation Using Dichroic Conjugated Polymer in Cholesteric Liquid Crystals
Authors: Chen Yihan , Li Lulu , Yao Kun , Fu Chunya , Li Yang , Cheng Yixiang
Published: December 2024

Negative dichroic dyes are crucial for enhancing the brightness of liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and modulating circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) in cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs) through supramolecular co‐assembly. However, the majority of fluorescent molecules exhibit positive dichroism, and there is a limited understanding of designing negative dichroic molecules. In this paper, a novel design principle is proposed to construct the negative dichroic polymer by introducing through space charge transfer (TSCT) side chain structure to the polymer backbone. Specifically, two conjugated polymers (P1, P2) are synthesized using the Suzuki coupling reaction of two donor‐acceptor (D‐A) type monomers (V‐type M1 and I‐type M2) with fluorenyl monomer. P1 exhibits negative dichroism, and its orientational order parameter (SF) is up to SFP1 = –0.18. On the contrary, P2 is positive dichroism (SFP2 = + 0.27). This variation arises from the differing orientations of the rigidly functional side chains (SFM1 = + 0.07; SFM2 = + 0.31), which affect the alignment (parallel or perpendicular) of the polymer backbone toward CLCs molecules. This phenomenon facilitates controllable dichroism and precisely modulates the handedness of CPL signals, thereby facilitating the successful implementation of multidimensional information encryption systems in CLCs.
Perovskite‐Inspired Cs₂AgBi₂I₉: A Promising Photovoltaic Absorber for Diverse Indoor Environments
Authors: Krishnaiah Mokurala , Singh Kuntal , Monga Sanchi , Tripathi Akash , Karmakar Sougata , Kumar Ramesh , Tyrpenou Christos , Volonakis George , Manna Debjit , Mäkinen Paavo , Adarsh K. V. , Bhattacharya Saswata , Grandhi G. Krishnamurthy , Rao K. D. M. , Vivo Paola
Published: December 2024

Indoor photovoltaics (IPVs) using low‐toxicity bismuth‐based perovskite‐inspired materials (PIMs) can potentially power the growing number of Internet of Things devices sustainably. However, modest indoor power conversion efficiency (PCE) values are reported due to intrinsic limitations of PIMs, particularly regarding charge carrier separation and transport. Herein, polycrystalline Cs₂AgBi₂I₉ thin films are developed with high phase purity and study their fundamental structural and photophysical properties. The comprehensive experimental and computational study reveals unique optoelectronic properties of Cs₂AgBi₂I₉ compared to other bismuth‐containing PIMs, including weak electron‐phonon coupling and low exciton binding energy (40 meV). This study also demonstrates the feasibility of large and highly mobile polaron formation in Cs₂AgBi₂I₉, supported by the observation of a phonon bottleneck and a delayed hot carrier lifetime of over 200 ps, which suggests enhanced defect tolerance and transport properties. Motivated by the suitable bandgap of this absorber (1.78 eV), the first Cs₂AgBi₂I₉‐based IPVs are developed, achieving a PCE of ≈8% at 1000 lux. Notably, the devices maintain high performance across various indoor environments with white LED color temperatures ranging from 2700 to 6500 K. The calculated theoretical PCE limit of >40% and the promising operational stability position Cs₂AgBi₂I₉ as one of the most intriguing candidates for sustainable IPVs.
SuperResNET: Model‐Free Single‐Molecule Network Analysis Software Achieves Molecular Resolution of Nup96
Authors: Li Yahongyang Lydia , Khater Ismail M. , Hallgrimson Christian , Cardoen Ben , Wong Timothy H. , Hamarneh Ghassan , Nabi Ivan R.
Published: December 2024

SuperResNET is an integrated machine learning‐based analysis software for visualizing and quantifying 3D point cloud data acquired by single‐molecule localization microscopy (SMLM). SuperResNET computational modules include correction for multiple blinking of single fluorophores, denoising, segmentation (clustering), feature extraction used for cluster group identification, modularity analysis, blob retrieval, and visualization in 2D and 3D. Here, a graphical user interface version of SuperResNET was applied to publicly available direct stochastic optical reconstruction microscopy (dSTORM) data of nucleoporin Nup96 and Nup107 labeled nuclear pores that present a highly organized octagon structure of eight corners. SuperResNET effectively segments nuclear pores and Nup96 corners based on differential proximity threshold analysis from 2D and 3D SMLM datasets. SuperResNET quantitatively analyzes features from segmented nuclear pores, including complete structures with eightfold symmetry, and from segmented corners. SuperResNET modularity analysis of segmented corners from 2D SMLM distinguishes two modules at 10.7 ± 0.1 nm distance, corresponding to two individual Nup96 molecules. SuperResNET is therefore a model‐free tool that can reconstruct network architecture and molecular distribution of subcellular structures without the bias of a specified prior model, attaining molecular resolution from dSTORM data. SuperResNET provides flexibility to report on structural diversity in situ within the cell, providing opportunities for biological discovery.
Optimal Cerebral Blood Flow Thresholds for Ischemic Core Estimation Using Computed Tomography Perfusion and Diffusion‐Weighted Imaging
Authors: Kim Nakhoon , Ryu Wi‐Sun , Ha Sue Young , Kim Jun Yup , Kang Jihoon , Baik Sung Hyun , Jung Cheolkyu , Han Moon‐Ku , Bae Hee‐Joon , Lin Longting , Parsons Mark , Kim Beom Joon
Published: December 2024

Objective

Computed tomography perfusion (CTP) imaging is crucial in quantifying cerebral blood flow (CBF) and thereby making an endovascular treatment (EVT) after large vessel occlusion. However, CTP is prone to overestimating the ischemic core. We sought to delineate the optimal regional CBF (rCBF) thresholds of pre‐EVT CTP.

Methods

We collected acute ischemic stroke patients due to large vessel occlusion who achieved successful recanalization with baseline CTP, immediate post‐EVT diffusion‐weighted image (DWI) within 3 hours, and delayed post‐EVT DWI between 24 and 196 hours. Core volumes estimated by CTP at various rCBF thresholds were validated against immediate and delayed DWI lesion volumes.

Results

A total of 175 acute large vessel occlusion patients were included. Baseline CTP was taken in a median of 24 minutes (interquartile range [IQR] 21–31 minutes) after arrival; after the CTP, groin puncture in a median of 37 minutes (IQR 28–52 minutes), immediate post‐EVT DWI scans in a median of 1.6 hours (IQR 0.8–2.1 hours), and delayed DWI scans in a median of 89 hours (IQR 69–106 hours). The correlations between the rCBF thresholds were the best at rCBF <22% for immediate DWI (0.64; 95% CI 0.55–0.73) and at rCBF <30% for delayed DWI (0.69; 95% CI 0.61–0.76). The interval between CTP and recanalization was inversely correlated with the overestimation of ischemic core volume compared with the subsequent DWI.

Interpretation

Optimal rCBF thresholds for estimating ischemic core using CTP depend significantly on the timing of DWI post‐EVT and CTP to recanalization delay. The optimal rCBF thresholds for ischemic core estimation may vary depending on the clinical setting. ANN NEUROL 2024
Stellar Physics and General Relativity
Authors: Yokoyama Shuichi
Published: December 2024

The general theory of relativity is currently established as the most precise theory of gravity supported by observations, and its application is diverse ranging from astronomy to cosmology, while its application to astrophysics has been restricted only to compact stars due to the assumption that the Newtonian approximation is sufficient for celestial bodies with medium density such as the sun. Surprisingly, the recent research of the author has implied that this long‐held assumption is not valid, and that nonperturbative effects significantly change relevant results obtained by Newtonian gravity. In particular, local physical quantities inside the sun are newly predicted to exhibit power law differently from the so‐called standard solar model. This surprising result is reviewed including brief discussion of physics behind the discrepancy and a little new application.
PRKAA2 Promotes Tumor Growth and Inhibits Ferroptosis through SLC7A11/GSH/GPX4 Pathway in Non‐Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Wei Zhiqiang , Zhou Zhilian , Zhang Yu , Wang Jie , Huang Ke , Ding Yuanyu , Sun Yingming , Gu Mingming , Kong Xiangang , Xi Erping , Zeng Shaoshan
Published: December 2024

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most pervasive sort of lung cancer with deadly outcome. According to recent studies, a number of neoplastic disorders and ferroptosis are intimately connected. This study aims to identify the role of key ferroptosis‐related gene (protein kinase AMP‐activated catalytic subunit alpha 2, PRKAA2) and explore new directions for the diagnosis and treatment of NSCLC. The PRKAA2 expression and its influence on survival were analyzed in multiple public databases (TCGA, TIMER2.0, and GEPIA). And PRKAA2 mRNA level in NSCLC cells were examined by qRT‐PCR. Silencing of PRKAA2 (sh‐PRKAA2) were used to cell transfection. CCK‐8, EdU, and flow cytometry assays were used to measure cell proliferation and apoptosis. The protein levels of ferroptosis markers (SLC7A11, GPX4, and NRF2) were determined by western blotting. Meanwhile, the related ferroptosis analysis, such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH), reactive oxygen species (ROS), iron, and Fe2+ levels were also detected in the transfected cells. Moreover, the relationship between PRKAA2 expression and SLC7A11 was analyzed. NSCLC xenograft mouse models were used for in vivo verification of the PRKAA2 function. Here, our data revealed that PRKAA2 was upregulated in NSCLC cells. Additionally, PRKAA2 strengthened cell proliferation and attenuated apoptosis and ferroptosis of NSCLC cells. The depletion of PRKAA2 enhanced the erastin‐induced inhibition effect on cell growth, and notably increased the levels of MDA, ROS, iron, and Fe2+, while decreased GSH level in NSCLC cells. In the mechanism exploration, we discovered that PRKAA2 could activate the SLC7A11/GSH/GPx4 antioxidant pathway. The rescue experiments showed that SLC7A11 abrogated the inhibitive impacts of PRKAA2 repression on cellular proliferation, cell apoptosis, and ferroptosis in NSCLC. Besides, animal experiments proved that PRKAA2 enhanced NSCLC tumor growth in vivo. The results discovered that PRKAA2 accelerated the malignant progression, diminished apoptosis and ferroptosis in NSCLC through SLC7A11/GSH/GPX4 pathway. This study provide a novel target in the application of PRKAA2 for NSCLC treatment.
New Horizons in Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1: Cellular Senescence as a Therapeutic Target
Authors: Légaré Cécilia , Berglund J. Andrew , Duchesne Elise , Dumont Nicolas A.
Published: December 2024

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is considered a progeroid disease (i.e., causing premature aging). This hypervariable disease affects multiple systems, such as the musculoskeletal, central nervous, gastrointestinal, and others. Despite advances in understanding the underlying pathogenic mechanism of DM1, numerous gaps persist in our understanding, hindering elucidation of the heterogeneity and severity of its symptoms. Accumulating evidence indicates that the toxic intracellular RNA accumulation associated with DM1 triggers cellular senescence. These cells are in a state of irreversible cell cycle arrest and secrete a cocktail of cytokines, referred to as a senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP), that can have harmful effects on neighboring cells and more broadly. We hypothesize that cellular senescence contributes to the pathophysiology of DM1, and clearance of senescent cells is a promising therapeutic approach for DM1. We will discuss the therapeutic potential of different senotherapeutic drugs, especially senolytics that eliminate senescent cells, and senomorphics that reduce SASP expression.
Cataluminescence Sensor Based on Halloysite Nanotubes/MgO Nanocomposite for Rapid Detection of Ether
Authors: Liu Yilu , Shi Zhaoxia , Zhang Yintang , Li Zhaohui , Xu Maotian
Published: December 2024

MgO surface makes it easy to introduce a certain amount of oxygen vacancy and can enhance catalytic reaction activity. Besides, as a silicoaluminate mineral material, halloysite nanotube (HNT) has a unique tubular structure. In this paper, the HNTs@MgO composite was successfully synthesized based on natural clay material HNTs as a carrier, and the CTL sensor based on HNTs@MgO was successfully developed for the rapid determination of ether in air. The HNTs@MgO material was characterized by a series of means such as SEM, XPS, and XRD, which clearly confirmed that MgO successfully combined with HNTs. And the sensor showed good sensitivity and selectivity, with a good linear relationship between CTL intensity and ether concentration in the range of 0.5–190.0 mg/L (R2 = 0.9942), and the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.18 mg/L (S/N = 3). The RSD values of the results of 11 consecutive measurements by the same sensor and 7 days of consecutive measurements were 1.96% (n = 11) and 3.42% (n = 7), showing good repeatability and reproducibility. At last, the CTL sensor was used to detect air samples, the recoveries ranged from 91.6% to 109.6%. Thus, it was concluded that HNTs@MgO composite is a cost‐effective and promising material with potential application in atmospheric detection.
Sensitivity of bulk electrical impedance spectroscopy (bio‐capacitance) probes to cell and culture properties: Study on CHO cell cultures
Authors: Salimi Elham , Absalan Sara , Robitaille Julien , Montes Johnny , Butler Michael , Thomson Douglas , Bridges Greg
Published: December 2024

Bulk electrical impedance spectroscopy (bio‐capacitance) probes, hold significant promise for real‐time cell monitoring in bioprocesses. Focusing on Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells, we present a sensitivity analysis framework to assess the impact of cell and culture properties on the complex permittivity spectrum, εmix, and its associated parameters, permittivity increment, Δε, critical frequency, fc, and Cole‐Cole parameter, α, measured by bio‐capacitance probes. Our sensitivity analysis showed that Δε is highly sensitive to cell size and concentration, making it suitable for estimating biovolume during the exponential growth phase, whereas fc provides information about cumulative changes in cell size, membrane permittivity, and cytoplasm conductivity during the transition to death phase. The analysis indicated that specific information about cell membrane permittivity or internal conductivity cannot be extracted from εmix spectrum. Based on the sensitivity analysis, we proposed two alternative parameters for monitoring cells in bioprocesses: Δε1 MHz and Δε1 MHz/Δε0.3 MHz, using measurements at 300 kHz, 1 MHz, and 10 MHz. Δε1 MHz is suitable for estimating viable cell density during the exponential growth phase due to its lower sensitivity to cell size. Δε1 MHz/Δε0.3 MHz can replace fc due to similar sensitivities to cell size and dielectric properties. These frequencies are within most bio‐capacitance probes' optimal operation range, eliminating the need for low‐frequency electrode polarization and high‐frequency stray capacitances corrections. Experimental measurements on CHO cells confirmed the results of sensitivity analysis.
Orchestrated desaturation reprogramming from stearoyl‐CoA desaturase to fatty acid desaturase 2 in cancer epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and metastasis
Authors: Chen Zhicong , Gong Yanqing , Chen Fukai , Lee Hyeon Jeong , Qian Jinqin , Zhao Jing , Zhang Wenpeng , Li Yamin , Zhou Yihui , Xu Qiaobing , Xia Yu , Zhou Liqun , Cheng Ji‐Xin
Published: December 2024

Background

Adaptative desaturation in fatty acid (FA) is an emerging hallmark of cancer metabolic plasticity. Desaturases such as stearoyl‐CoA desaturase (SCD) and fatty acid desaturase 2 (FADS2) have been implicated in multiple cancers, and their dominant and compensatory effects have recently been highlighted. However, how tumors initiate and sustain their self‐sufficient FA desaturation to maintain phenotypic transition remains elusive. This study aimed to explore the molecular orchestration of SCD and FADS2 and their specific reprogramming mechanisms in response to cancer progression.

Methods

The potential interactions between SCD and FADS2 were explored by bioinformatics analyses across multiple cancer cohorts, which guided subsequent functional and mechanistic investigations. The expression levels of desaturases were investigated with online datasets and validated in both cancer tissues and cell lines. Specific desaturation activities were characterized through various isomer‐resolved lipidomics methods and sensitivity assays using desaturase inhibitors. In‐situ lipid profiling was conducted using multiplex stimulated Raman scattering imaging. Functional assays were performed both in vitro and in vivo, with RNA‐sequencing employed for the mechanism verification.

Results

After integration of the RNA‐protein‐metabolite levels, the data revealed that a reprogramming from SCD‐dependent to FADS2‐dependent desaturation was linked to cancer epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and progression in both patients and cell lines. FADS2 overexpression and SCD suppression concurrently maintained EMT plasticity. A FADS2/β‐catenin self‐reinforcing feedback loop facilitated the degree of lipid unsaturation, membrane fluidity, metastatic potential and EMT signaling. Moreover, SCD inhibition triggered a lethal apoptosis but boosted survival plasticity by inducing EMT and enhancing FA uptake via adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase activation. Notably, this desaturation reprogramming increased transforming growth factor‐β2, effectively sustaining aggressive phenotypes and metabolic plasticity during EMT.

Conclusions

These findings revealed a metabolic reprogramming from SCD‐dependent to FADS2‐dependent desaturation during cancer EMT and progression, which concurrently supports EMT plasticity. Targeting desaturation reprogramming represents a potential vulnerability for cancer metabolic therapy.
Synthesis and Characterization of Silver and Zinc Nanoparticles From Vitex altissima: Comparative Analysis of Anti‐Oxidant, Anti‐Inflammatory, Antibacterial, and Anti‐Biofilm Activities
Authors: Lekkala VijayaDurga V. V. , Sirigireddy Bharathi , Reddy Madhava C. , Lomada Dakshayani
Published: December 2024

Metal nanoparticles have attained much popularity due to their low toxicity, economic feasibility, and eco‐friendly nature. The present study focuses on the synthesis of silver and zinc nanoparticles from Vitex altissima leaf extract, further characterized by UV/Vis spectral analysis, Powder‐x‐ray diffraction (XRD), FE‐SEM, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential. Synthesized silver and zinc nanoparticles were screened for antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, antibacterial, and anti‐biofilm activities. AgNPs exhibited moderate antioxidant activities compared to ZnNPs, which were studied using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl radical (DPPH) and ABTS assays. The anti‐inflammatory effect was assessed using membrane stabilization and human red blood cell methods. Furthermore, both types of nanoparticles, AgNPs and ZnNPs, exhibited anti‐biofilm activity against four MDR bacterial strains: Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Synthesized nanoparticles show antibacterial activity. Our data suggest that silver nanoparticles exhibited moderate activity compared to ZnNPs. These nanoparticles could act as potential antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antibacterial agents.
BIM tunneling documentation in Rohbaustollen Angath
Authors: Senekovic Jaka , Gaudart Dario , Heil Mag. Frédéric , Arnold Roland , Krasa Johannes
Published: December 2024

Since 2023, Austrian Federal Railways (ÖBB), with BEMO‐ÖSTU STETTIN, has been constructing the 2.6 km raw construction tunnel Angath (Rohbaustollen Angath) along the Angerberg. It will support geological investigations, logistics for the future main railway tunnel Angerberg, and act as a rescue tunnel, ensuring safety. The project includes a pre‐cut, tunnel excavation, and a 110‐meter section of the main railway tunnel, with turning niches and cross adits. Building information modeling (BIM) is used for design, tendering, control, and documentation. The integrated project delivery (IPD) model ensures shared responsibility for risks and costs. BIM optimizes data flow and transparency, with tunneling documentation collected on‐site, verified in ÖBB's Common Data Environment (MSP), and used for parametric modeling. Cost and progress monitoring occur via software RIB iTWO (Version 2023, 2023). Project documentation and the linking of the documentation into a 3D BIM model of a tunnel enables early detection of deviations and appropriate action to be taken, with transparency and traceability being critical to the success of the IPD project.
Oil Spill Response: Existing Technologies, Prospects and Perspectives
Authors: Jayarathna Methmini Dilhara , Rajapaksha Anushka Upamali , Samarasekara Sameera , Vithanage Meththika
Published: December 2024

The growth of the economy and technological advancement has led to an increased demand for energy and the transportation of raw materials for the production of fuels, chemicals, and petroleum products. However, this increased activity has also resulted in an elevated risk of oil‐related disasters, which can have devastating consequences for the environment and local communities. More than 1700 oil spills have occurred, including severe spills such as the Deepwater Horizon spill in 2010, which released 134 million gallons. However, technological developments and restrictions have resulted in a significant reduction in spills. Oil spills happened in aquatic and terrestrial environments providing numerous impacts on wildlife and public health. Existing literature may have limited scope or depth; therefore, this review addresses the literature gap by discussing the strengths and limitations of current and emerging technologies for detecting, cleaning, and restoring oil‐contaminated marine and soil sites. Booms, skimmers, chemical agents (dispersants), and in situ burning are generally used for oil spill remediation. Other than conventional methods, numerous novel approaches including adsorbents (e.g., aerogels, carbon nanotubes, and other sorbents) and modified materials have been developed. For detection purposes, collaboration remote sensing and artificial intelligence are used as new emerging technologies. Modified oil adsorbents such as aerogels, sponges, and carbon nanotubes demonstrated high sorption capacity (> 100 g/g) for oil removal. Despite the challenges such as transport, high production cost, and toxicity, these emerging technologies have the potential to improve the effectiveness of oil spill remediation in the future. The materials with hybrid properties should be developed and more real‐scale tests should be tested to mitigate limitations in practical scenarios of developing novel sorbent modifications like nanoparticles and aerogels.
Progress, Pitfalls, and Impact of AI‐Driven Clinical Trials
Authors: Wilczok Dominika , Zhavoronkov Alex
Published: December 2024

Since the deep learning revolution of the early 2010s, significant efforts and billions of dollars have been invested in applying artificial intelligence (AI) to drug discovery and development (AIDD). However, despite high expectations, few AI‐discovered or AI‐designed drugs have entered human clinical trials, and none have achieved clinical approval. In this perspective, we examine the challenges impeding progress and highlight opportunities to harness AI's potential in transforming drug discovery and development.
Trade‐offs between early planting and yellow rust resistance in wheat: Insights from screening experiments in the Indo‐Gangetic plain
Authors: Farhad Md. , Tripathi Shashi B. , Singh Ravi P. , Joshi Arun K. , Bhati Pradeep K. , Kumar Uttam
Published: December 2024

Wheat crops (Triticum aestivum) that are conventionally planted may exhibit susceptibility to yellow rust (YR). However, the disease can be mitigated if the crops are planted earlier than the recommended planting time. A wheat screening experiment was carried out at the Borlaug Institute of South Asia located in Ludhiana, Punjab, India. The purpose of the study was to gain a deeper understanding of the adaptation patterns of early planted wheat. Early planting was found to be more advantageous for production potential, as well as phenology, stature, and physiological traits. In a separate experiment, each year, the same number of genotypes were screened for YR by artificially inoculating them with pathogen spores. The well‐adapted genotypes for early establishment tend to possess a greater vulnerability to YR infection. Furthermore, the infection type score for the genotype selected for early planting showed a significantly greater proportion of S (susceptible) type reactions than for the genotypes adapted to early planting. Intriguingly, more R (resistant) and moderately resistant types of reactions were observed in early‐adapted genotypes than in timely‐adapted ones. Therefore, further concentrated research on YR screening is required to assess the possibility of breeding early sown wheat in the northwest part of the Indo‐Gangetic region.
How Reliable Is Environmental Management in Mining? Learnings Through Analysis of Sustainability Reports
Authors: Howe Layla , Johnston Susan , Côte Claire
Published: December 2024

Environmental failures associated with mining operations are persistent issues. It is therefore surprising that we still know very little about whether companies are taking the organisational steps necessary to reliably achieve acceptable environmental performance. Companies use sustainability reports to describe their progress towards fulfilling environmental commitments. This study examines sustainability reports published by seven of the largest mining companies through the lens of High Reliability Organisation (HRO) theory and considers what those reports reveal about the reliability of mining company environmental activities. We conclude the extent to which environmental management practices align with HRO characteristics cannot be determined with certainty from sustainability reports. The data does suggest an insufficient embedding of environmental management in organisational collective mindsets, as well as other significant gaps in the application of HRO hallmark characteristics to environmental activities. Alternative data sources need to be explored to determine the reliability of environmental management in practice.
Does Environmental Uncertainty Increase the Likelihood of Greenwashing? The Roles of Government Subsidies and Media Attention
Authors: Yang Xinhui , Liu Bei , Liu Zhenhua , Zhang Jie , Sun Qingqing
Published: December 2024

Previous studies indicate environmental uncertainty aggravates corporate management risk and can lead to changes in operating strategies adopted by corporations. However, the influence of environmental uncertainty on corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, particularly greenwashing behavior, remains underexplored. This study seeks to examine the impact of environmental uncertainty on corporate greenwashing using a dataset from Chinese listed companies spanning 2011–2020. The empirical findings indicate a positive correlation between the degree of environmental uncertainty and greenwashing. Specifically, a one‐standard‐deviation increase in environmental uncertainty results in a 0.03 rise, equivalent to a 4.6% increase relative to the absolute value of average greenwashing. Furthermore, we provide evidence that higher subsidies and increased media attention can mitigate the positive impact of environmental uncertainty on greenwashing. Moreover, we observe that this effect is more pronounced in low‐polluting companies and state‐owned enterprises. This study contributes to the theoretical understanding of how the external environment influences operating strategies from the aspect of greenwashing and offers practical recommendations for mitigating greenwashing through the allocation of government subsidies and increased media attention.
A Benign Lesion of Thyroid Masquerading as a Salivary Gland Malignancy on Cytology
Authors: Dixit Shivansh , Sharma Pooja , Gupta Anurag , Anand Nidhi , Dhanda Mallika
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Thyroid lesions are one of the most common diseases observed in clinical practice in the North India. These diseases have distinct cytological morphology and thus FNAC is done frequently. Here we report a case of adenomatoid goitre mimicking adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of salivary gland on cytology. Such close resemblance on morphology makes this a case of unusual morphological presentation of a very common condition.

Case Summary

We report here a case of a 60‐year‐old female who developed a right anterior neck swelling six years back. Systemic clinical findings were unremarkable. Routine laboratory investigations, including thyroid function test were within normal limits. A High‐resolution ultrasound of neck was performed, and a TIRADS‐IV lesion measuring 28.8 × 22.9 mm was reported. Fine needle aspiration was done. Seven smears were made and stained with MGG, H&E and PAP stains. Smears were moderately cellular and abundant globular, amorphous material was observed with lesional cells forming three‐dimensional rosette‐like structures around them, producing an ACC‐like pattern. A second consultation and immunohistochemistry on cell block we performed which led to a diagnosis of adenomatoid goitre, confirmed later histologically.

Conclusion

Benign lesions of thyroid can sometime mimic adenoid cystic carcinomas of salivary glands. Misdiagnosing any such case based solely on morphology can lead to wrong prognostication and thus wrong treatment. Extensive review of literature and a second consultation with an experienced pathologist should be done. Whenever needed a cell block preparation and a complete immunohistochemistry panel should be performed.
Recurrence rate of cholecystitis after initial gallbladder stenting versus secondary gallbladder stenting: A propensity score matching study
Authors: Nakabayashi Ryota , Kamada Hideki , Ono Masahiro , Kono Toshiaki , Fujita Naoki , Yamana Hiroki , Kobayashi Kiyoyuki , Tani Joji , Ando Yasuhisa , Suto Hironobu , Oshima Minoru , Okano Keiichi , Kobara Hideki
Published: December 2024

Objective

Limitations are sometimes encountered in the application of laparoscopic cholecystectomy to the treatment of acute cholecystitis. Endoscopic gallbladder stenting (EGBS) has emerged as an additional option. However, the long‐term stent patency remains an issue. This study was performed to compare the efficacy of primary and secondary EGBS.

Methods

Sixty‐one patients who underwent preplanned EGBS because of poor surgical tolerance from January 2006 to July 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The patients were divided into the initial EGBS group, in which EGBS was performed as the first option (n = 37), and the secondary EGBS group, in which EGBS was performed following other treatments (n = 24). The primary endpoint was the 3‐month recurrence rate, and the secondary endpoint was the technical success rate. Propensity score matching was performed to align the patients’ background factors between the two groups.

Results

After propensity score matching, six patients from each group were selected for analysis. The technical success rate was significantly higher in the secondary EGBS group (73.0% [27/37] vs. 95.8% [23/24], respectively). Furthermore, the 3‐month recurrence rate was significantly higher in the initial than secondary EGBS group (66.7% [4/6] vs. 0.0% [0/6], respectively; p = 0.0232).

Conclusion

Secondary EGBS may effectively prevent recurrent cholecystitis in patients with poor surgical tolerance.