bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
18.63% Efficiency of Ternary Organic Solar Cells Achieved via Nonhalogenated Solvent and Hot Spin‐Coating Process
Authors: Huang Tianhuan , Geng Shuang , Wang Dongjie , Zhang Yang , Weng Nan , Li Xiao , Liao Qiaogan , Zhang Zheling , Lu Jiangrong , Zhang Jian
Published: March 2024

The solubility problem of conjugated polymers in nonhalogenated solvents limits the application of nonhalogenated solvents in Organic solar cells (OSCs). By combining with a hot spin‐coating process, efficient PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F:GS‐ISO ternary OSCs are prepared by employing o‐xylene as a solvent. After adding 10 wt% content of GS‐ISO to PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F, the surface morphology in the active layers is improved and the charge extraction, transport, and collection in OSCs are enhanced. Compared with the efficiency of PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F OSCs (16.25%), an efficiency of 18.63% is achieved for PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F:GS‐ISO ternary OSCs. Moreover, PM6:BTP‐BO‐4F:GS‐ISO ternary OSCs with an efficiency of 14.13% are prepared in air. The work provides a new strategy for preparing efficient and environmentally friendly OSCs using green solvents.
Engineered PVDF/PLCL/PEDOT Dual Electroactive Nerve Conduit to Mediate Peripheral Nerve Regeneration by Modulating the Immune Microenvironment
Authors: Wang Qiqi , Wei Yingqi , Yin Xiaohong , Zhan Guancheng , Cao Xiaodong , Gao Huichang
Published: March 2024

Electroactive materials are increasingly recognized for their efficacy in promoting the repair of peripheral nerve injury. However, the mechanism by which electroactive materials promote peripheral nerve regeneration by modulating the immune microenvironment remains incompletely explored. In this study, a PVDF/PLCL/PEDOT artificial peripheral nerve conduit with dual electroactivity by integrating piezoelectric properties and electrical conductivity is constructed. The electroactive conduit exhibited excellent spontaneous electrical and conductive properties, superior suture resistance and anti‐twisting properties. Detailed in vitro cell experiments and in vivo animal experiments are conducted, revealing that the electroactive nerve conduit can effectively promote rat sciatic nerve regeneration while facilitating reconstruction of both nerve conduction function and motor function. Furthermore, the underlying mechanism in depth is investigated and found that the electroactive material can regulate the immune microenvironment by activating the PI3K/AKT‐Nrf2 signaling pathway, thereby promoting macrophage polarization toward M2 anti‐inflammatory phenotype. This subsequently facilitated Schwann cell recruitment and myelin formation through mediation of the macrophage paracrine system. Importantly, blocking immune signaling pathways diminished the effectiveness of the electroactive nerve conduit in promoting nerve repair. The work elucidated how electroactive materials modulate immune microenvironment to positively impact peripheral nerve repair, highlighting the critical role of immune modulation in peripheral nerve repair.
Orbital Occupancy Modulation to Optimize Intermediate Absorption for Efficient Electrocatalysts in Water Electrolysis and Zinc–Ethanol–Air Battery
Authors: Ye Yanting , Xu Jinchang , Li Xiulan , Jian Yongqi , Xie Fangyan , Chen Jian , Jin Yanshuo , Yu Xiang , Lee Ming‐Hsien , Wang Nan , Sun Shuhui , Meng Hui
Published: March 2024

Spin engineering is a promising way to modulate the interaction between the metal d‐orbital and the intermediates and thus enhance the catalytic kinetics. Herein, an innovative strategy is reported to modulate the spin state of Co by regulating its coordinating environment. o‐c‐CoSe2‐Ni is prepared as pre‐catalyst, then in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and in situ Raman spectroscopy are employed to prove phase transition, and CoOOH/Co3O4 is formed on the surface as active sites. In hybrid water electrolysis, the voltage has a negative shift, and in zinc–ethanol–air battery, the charging voltage is lowered and the cycling stability is greatly increased. Coordinated atom substitution and crystalline symmetry change are combined to regulate the absorption ability of reaction intermediates with balanced optimal adsorption. Coordinated atom substitution weakens the adsorption while the crystalline symmetry change strengthens the adsorption. Importantly, the tetrahedral sites are introduced by Ni doping which enables the co‐existence of four‐coordinated sites and six‐coordination sites in o‐c‐CoSe2‐Ni. The dz2 + dx2‐y2 orbital occupancy decreases after the atomic substitution, while increases after replacing the CoSe6‐Oh field with CoSe6‐Oh/CoSe4‐Td. This work explores a new direction for the preparation of efficient catalysts for water electrolysis and innovative zinc–ethanol–air battery.
Fast Li Replenishment Channels‐Assisted Recycling of Degraded Layered Cathodes with Enhanced Cycling Performance and Thermal Stability
Authors: Zhuang Zhaofeng , Li Junfeng , Ji Haocheng , Piao Zhihong , Wu Xinru , Ji Guanjun , Liu Song , Ma Jun , Tang Di , Zheng Nengzhan , Wang Junxiong , Zhou Guangmin
Published: March 2024

The direct recycling of cathode materials in lithium‐ion batteries is important for environmental protection and resource conservation. The key regeneration processes are composition replenishment and atom rearrangement, both of which depend on the migration and diffusion of atoms. However, for the direct recycling of degraded LiNi0.5Co0.2Mn0.3O2 (D‐NCM523) cathode, the irreversible phase transitions that accumulate during the long‐term cycles block the Li diffusion channels with a high diffusion energy barrier, making it difficult to fully repair the layered structure and resulting in rapid capacity decay. To address the challenge, fast Li replenishment channels are rebuilt to regulate the surface phase and effectively assist the regeneration process with a reduced energy barrier. This method reduces the amount of Li supplement by >75% and shortens the sintering time (only 2 h) to fully regenerate D‐NCM523, compared to general direct recycling methods. The regenerated NCM523 (LCMB‐NCM523) exhibits a satisfactory repaired specific capacity of 160 mAh g−1 and excellent cycling stability, retaining 78% of its capacity after 300 cycles. In addition, LCMB‐NCM523 is recycled with improved thermal decomposition peak temperature and enables 200 cycles even at 60 °C, greatly improving safety. This work proposes a promising way for the large‐scale direct regeneration of layered cathodes.
Synthesis of Quinine‐Inspired Antimalarials by Ni‐Catalysed Cross Electrophile Coupling
Authors: Lawer Aggie , Player Finlay P. , Avery Vicky M. , Foley Daniel J.
Published: March 2024

We describe the efficient synthesis of novel dehydroxyquinines by arylation of quincorine bromide using Ni‐catalysed cross electrophile coupling. The method demonstrates robust compatibility with (hetero)aryl bromides bearing diverse functional groups. Oxidation at C‐9 of the dehydroxyquinines expediently provided quinine‐inspired pseudo‐natural products (‘quinalogs’). Investigation of the compound collection against Plasmodium falciparum revealed a new insight into the structure activity relationship of quinine. Analogs bearing specifically functionalised pyridines, in place of the 6‐methoxyquinoline ring of quinine, retained activity at the same order of magnitude, albeit not exceeding the activity of the natural product. This synthetic strategy conveniently enables iteration of the aromatic component of quinine for the first time, and holds promise for the development of effective new antimalarials.
Photo‐Induced Synthesis of Functionalized γ‐Lactams via Iron‐Catalyzed LMCT Cascade
Authors: Song Zhuoheng , Bai Jinrui , Qi Dan , Guo Lin , Yang Chao , Xia Wujiong
Published: March 2024

A base‐and‐additive‐free photo‐induced radical‐mediated cascade cyclization reaction of 1,6‐enyne compounds was presented. In this study, C(sp3)−H hydrocarbons, including various alkanes and ethers, were activated via Fe‐catalyzed photo‐induced conditions, providing a bunch of γ‐lactam products via hydrogen atom transfer and radical addition processes. Control experiments indicated that the reaction proceeded through photo‐induced ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer (LMCT) process. Gram scale experiment was also completed by using continuous‐flow‐photocatalytic‐device.
Enantioselective Syntheses of 3,4‐Dihydropyrans Employing Isochalcogenourea‐Catalyzed Formal (4+2)‐Cycloadditions of Allenoates
Authors: Piringer Magdalena , Hofer Mario , Vogl Lukas S. , Mayer Peter , Waser Mario
Published: March 2024

We herein successfully demonstrate the use of chiral isochalcogenoureas as Lewis Base catalysts for a variety of (4+2)‐cycloaddition reactions of allenoates and different Michael acceptors. In all cases the same structural key‐motive, a dihydropyran with a (Z)‐configurated exocyclic double bond could be accessed as the major regio‐ and diastereoisomer in an enantioselective manner. Furthermore, these chiral dihydropyrans were successfully engaged in different follow‐up transformations.
Evaluation of Bioprinted Autologous Cartilage Grafts in an Immunocompetent Rabbit Model
Authors: Gvaramia David , Fisch Philipp , Flégeau Killian , Huber Lena , Kern Johann , Jakob Yvonne , Hirsch Daniela , Rotter Nicole
Published: March 2024

The gold standard of auricular reconstruction involves manual graft assembly from autologous costal cartilage. The intervention may require multiple surgical procedures and lead to donor‐site morbidity, while the outcome is highly dependent on individual surgical skills. A tissue engineering approach provides the means to produce cartilage grafts of a defined shape from autologous chondrocytes. The use of autologous cells minimizes the risk of host immune response; however, factors such as biomaterial compatibility and in vitro maturation of the tissue‐engineered (TE) cartilage may influence the engraftment and shape‐stability of TE implants. Here, this work tests the biocompatibility of bioprinted autologous cartilage constructs in a rabbit model. The TE cartilage is produced by embedding autologous auricular chondrocytes into hyaluronan transglutaminase (HATG) based bioink, previously shown to support chondrogenesis in human auricular chondrocytes in vitro and in immunocompromised xenotransplantation models in vivo. A drastic softening and loss of cartilage markers, such as sulfated glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and collagen type II are observed. Furthermore, fibrous encapsulation and partial degradation of the transplanted constructs are indicative of a strong host immune response to the autologous TE cartilage. The current study thus illustrates the crucial importance of immunocompetent autologous animal models for the evaluation of TE cartilage function and compatibility.
Hydrogels of Alginate Derivative‐Encased Nanodots Featuring Carbon‐Coated Manganese Ferrite Cores with Gold Shells to Offer Antiangiogenesis with Multimodal Imaging‐Based Theranostics
Authors: Gowtham Pemula , Girigoswami Koyeli , Prabhu Alex Daniel , Pallavi Pragya , Thirumalai Anbazhagan , Harini Karthick , Girigoswami Agnishwar
Published: March 2024

The investigation seeks to develop gold‐shelled carbon‐coated manganese ferrite nanodots enclosed within oxidized alginate polymeric hydrogels (MNF@C‐Au@OSA) to improve encapsulation efficiency, biocompatibility, and multimodal imaging capabilities. These engineered particles, MNF@C‐Au@OSA, are crafted through a hydrothermal synthesis, succeeded by the application of gold nanoparticle shelling and subsequent encapsulation within hydrogels derived from synthesized alginate derivatives, enhancing their overall appeal. Diverse characterization methodologies are employed in order to validate the multiple steps of the synthesis process. The resulting engineered nanoparticles exhibit dual‐mode (T1 and T2) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast capabilities and compatibility with computed tomography (CT) and fluorescence‐based imaging. To illustrate minimal toxicity, A375 cell lines are utilized for in vitro testing, whereas zebrafish embryos are employed for in vivo assessments. A Chorioallantoic Membrane Model (CAM) is used to establish the antiangiogenic characteristics of MNF@C‐Au@OSA, which is confirmed by histopathological observations. Taking these studies together, one can conclude that the engineered MNF@C‐Au@OSA possesses multimodal imaging capabilities and has demonstrated antiangiogenic properties, thereby establishing them as potential theranostic agents.
Transplantation of Neural Stem Cells Loaded in an IGF‐1 Bioactive Supramolecular Nanofiber Hydrogel for the Effective Treatment of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Song Peiwen , Han Tianyu , Wu Zuomeng , Fang Huang , Liu Yunlei , Ying Wang , Wang Xianwen , Shen Cailiang
Published: March 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to massive cell death, disruption, and demyelination of axons, resulting in permanent motor and sensory dysfunctions. Stem cell transplantation is a promising therapy for SCI. However, owing to the poor microenvironment that develops following SCI, the bioactivities of these grafted stem cells are limited. Cell implantation combined with biomaterial therapies is widely studied for the development of tissue engineering technology. Herein, an insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1)‐bioactive supramolecular nanofiber hydrogel (IGF‐1 gel) is synthesized that can activate IGF‐1 downstream signaling, prevent the apoptosis of neural stem cells (NSCs), improve their proliferation, and induce their differentiation into neurons and oligodendrocytes. Moreover, implantation of NSCs carried out with IGF‐1 gels promotes neurite outgrowth and myelin sheath regeneration at lesion sites following SCI. In addition, IGF‐1 gels can enrich extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from NSCs or from nerve cells differentiated from these NSCs via miRNAs related to axonal regeneration and remyelination, even in an inflammatory environment. These EVs are taken up by autologous endogenous NSCs and regulate their differentiation. This study provides adequate evidence that combined treatment with NSCs and IGF‐1 gels is a potential therapeutic strategy for treating SCI.
Complete Selective Switching of Ferroelastic Domain Stripes in Multiferroic Thin Films by Tip Scanning
Authors: Wu Mengjun , Wang Xintong , Sun Fei , Zhang Xiaoyue , Zhang Yi , Liu Linjie , Chen Weijin , Zheng Yue
Published: March 2024

BiFeO3 is a rare single‐phase multiferroic which shows coupled ferroelectricity, ferroelasticity and antiferromagnetism at room temperature. Many fantastic properties of BiFeO3 are regulated by its domain structure. While (001) rhombohedral BiFeO3 thin films can possibly develop up‐to eight degenerate states of two‐variant 71° ferroelastic domain stripes, complete selective control of all possible switching paths between these states has not yet been achieved. Here, combining phase field simulations and scanning probe microscopy experiments, we demonstrated such a complete selective control. The tip bias and the built‐in field were shown to affect the volume fraction of the 71°, 109° and 180° switched domains in rhombohedral BiFeO3 thin films under single‐point loading. Meanwhile, tip scanning further broke the symmetry of the nucleated domains, leading to different switched domain patterns. We then grew BiFeO3 thin films with a specific two‐variant 71° ferroelastic domain state and showed that such a state could be deterministically switched into the other seven two‐variant domain states by collaborative controlling tip scanning and tip bias in scanning probe microscopy experiments. These results should deepen our current understanding on the domain switching kinetics in BiFeO3 thin films and indicate they are promising platforms for developing configurable electronic and spintronic devices.
Role of Ether‐Based Electrolytes in Enhancing Potential of Potassium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Jo Chang‐Heum , Myung Seung‐Taek
Published: March 2024

Potassium‐ion batteries are a promising advancement in secondary batteries, offering the potential to surpass even sodium‐ion batteries in replacing lithium‐ion batteries. Although the technology has the potential for high energy density, unresolved technical difficulties pose a challenge. Fortunately, progress is made in improving electrode materials, with studies demonstrating that controlling the fundamental cause of electrolyte degradation can significantly enhance the performance of potassium‐ion batteries. However, the ability of ether‐based electrolytes to improve battery performance is overlooked despite their inherent characteristics. This work explores the role and principles of ether‐based electrolytes in enhancing the potential of potassium‐ion batteries, highlighting various controversies and prospects in this area arising from insufficient research.
Hairy cell leukemia 2024: Update on diagnosis, risk‐stratification, and treatment—Annual updates in hematological malignancies
Authors: Troussard Xavier , Maître Elsa , Paillassa Jérôme
Published: March 2024

Disease Overview

Hairy cell leukemia (HCL) and HCL‐like disorders, including HCL variant (HCL‐V) and splenic diffuse red pulp lymphoma (SDRPL), are a very heterogenous group of mature lymphoid B‐cell disorders characterized by the identification of hairy cells, a specific genetic profile, a different clinical course and the need for appropriate treatment.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of HCL is based on morphological evidence of hairy cells, an HCL immunologic score of 3 or 4 based on the CD11c, CD103, CD123, and CD25 expression, the trephine biopsy which makes it possible to specify the degree of tumoral bone marrow infiltration and the presence of BRAFV600E somatic mutation.

Risk Stratification

Progression of patients with HCL is based on a large splenomegaly, leukocytosis, a high number of hairy cells in the peripheral blood, and the immunoglobulin heavy chain variable region gene mutational status. VH4‐34 positive HCL cases are associated with a poor prognosis, as well as HCL with TP53 mutations and HCL‐V.

Treatment

Patients should be treated only if HCL is symptomatic. Chemotherapy with risk‐adapted therapy purine analogs (PNAs) are indicated in first‐line HCL patients. The use of chemo‐immunotherapy combining cladribine (CDA) and rituximab (R) represents an increasingly used therapeutic approach. Management of relapsed/refractory disease is based on the use of BRAF inhibitors (BRAFi) plus R, MEK inhibitors (MEKi), recombinant immunoconjugates targeting CD22, Bruton tyrosine kinase inhibitors (BTKi), and Bcl‐2 inhibitors (Bcl‐2i). However, the optimal sequence of the different treatments remains to be determined.
Regulating Charge Transport Dynamics at the Buried Interface and Bulk of Perovskites by Tailored‐phase Two‐dimensional Crystal Seed Layer
Authors: Li Dengxue , Xing Zhi , Wang Yajun , Li Jianlin , Hu Biao , Hu Xiaotian , Hu Ting , Chen Yiwang
Published: March 2024

Targeting the trap‐assisted non‐radiative recombination losses and photochemical degradation occurring at the interface and bulk of perovskite, especially the overlooked buried bottom interface, a strategy of tailored‐phase two‐dimensional (TP‐2D) crystal seed layer has been developed to improve the charge transport dynamics at the buried interface and bulk of perovskite films. Using this approach, TP‐2D layer constructed by TP‐2D crystal seeds at the buried interface can induce the formation of homogeneous interface electric field, which effectively suppress the accumulation of charge carriers at the buried interface. Additionally, the presence of TP‐2D crystal seed has a positive effect on the crystallization process of the upper perovskite film, leading to optimized crystal quality and thus promoted charge transport inside bulk perovskites. Ultimately, the best performing PSCs based on TP‐2D layer deliver a power conversion efficiency of 24.58 %. The devices exhibit an improved photostability with 88.4 % of their initial PCEs being retained after aging under continuous 0.8‐sun illumination for 2000 h in air. Our findings reveal how to regulate the charge transport dynamics of perovskite bulk and interface by introducing homogeneous components.
Bimodal Oxidation Electrochemiluminescence Mechanism of Coreactant‐Embedded Covalent Organic Frameworks via Postsynthetic Modification
Authors: Meng Xiaoxiao , Zheng Lifeng , Luo Rengan , Kong Weisu , Xu Zhiyuan , Dong Pengfei , Ma Jing , Lei Jianping
Published: March 2024

Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) efficiency is determined by charge transfer between coreactants and emitters in coreactant systems, which are usually limited by their slow intermolecular charge transfer. In this study, a covalent organic framework (COF) with aldehyde residue was synthesized, and then coreactants were covalently integrated into the skeleton through the postsynthetic modification strategy, resulting in a crystalline coreactant‐embedded COF nanoemitter (C–COF). Compared to the pristine COF with an equivalent external coreactant, C–COF exhibited an extraordinary 1008‐fold enhancement of ECL intensity due to the rapid intrareticular charge transfer. Significantly, with the pH increase, C–COF shows protonation‐induced ECL enhancement for the first ECL peaked at +1.1 V and an opposite trend for the second ECL at +1.4 V, which were attributed to the antedating oxidation of coreactant in framework and COF self‐oxidation, respectively. The resulting bimodal oxidation ECL mechanism was rationalized by spectral characterization and density functional theory calculations. The postsynthetic coreactant‐embedded nanoemitters present innovative and universal avenues for advancing ECL systems.
A Triply‐Periodic‐Minimal‐Surface Structured Interphase based on Fluorinated Polymers Strengthening High‐energy Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Ma Cong , Zou Shihui , Wu Yuxuan , Yue Ke , Cai Xiaohan , Wang Yao , Nai Jianwei , Guo Tianqi , Tao Xinyong , Liu Yujing
Published: March 2024

The challenge of constructing a mechanically robust yet lightweight artificial solid‐electrolyte interphase layer on lithium (Li) anodes highlights a trade‐off between high battery safety and high energy density. Inspired by the intricate microstructure of the white sea urchin, we first develop a polyvinyl fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP) interfacial layer with a triple periodic minimal surface structure (TPMS) that could offer maximal modulus with minimal weight. This design endows high mechanical strength to an ordered porous structure, effectively reduces local current density, polarization, and internal resistance, and stabilizes the anode interface. At a low N/P ratio of ~3, using LiFePO4 as the cathode, Li anodes protected by TPMS‐structured PVDF‐HFP achieve an extremely low capacity‐fading‐rate of approximately 0.002 % per cycle over 200 cycles at 1 C, with an average discharge capacity of 142 mAh g−1. Meanwhile, the TPMS porous structure saves 50 wt % of the interfacial layer mass, thereby enhancing the energy density of the battery. The TPMS structure is conducive to large‐scale additive manufacturing, which will provide a reference for the future development of lightweight, high‐energy‐density secondary batteries.
Conformer‐Selective Photoelectron Circular Dichroism
Authors: Rouquet Etienne , Dupont Jennifer , Lepere Valeria , Garcia Gustavo A. , Nahon Laurent , Zehnacker Anne
Published: March 2024

Conformational flexibility and chirality both play a key role in molecular recognition. It is therefore very useful to develop spectroscopic methods that simultaneously probe both properties. It has been theoretically predicted that photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD) should be very sensitive to conformational isomerism. However, experimental proof has been less forthcoming and only exists for a very few favorable cases. Here, we present a new PECD scheme based on resonance‐enhanced two‐photon ionization (RE2PI) using UV/Vis nanosecond laser excitations. The spectral resolution obtained thereby guarantees conformer‐selectivity by inducing resonant conformer‐specific ππ* S1←S0 transitions. We apply this experimental scheme to the study of chiral 1‐indanol, which exists in two conformers linked by a ring inversion and defined by the position of the hydroxyl group, namely axial and equatorial. We show that the PECD of the equatorial and axial forms considerably differ in sign, magnitude and shape. We also discuss the influence of the total ionization energy, vibronic excitation of intermediate and final states, and relative polarization of the excitation and ionization lasers. Conformer‐specificity adds a new dimension to the applications of PECD in analytical chemistry addressing now the general case of floppy systems.
A decade's overview of 2‐aminothiophenes and their fused analogs as promising anticancer agents
Authors: Darwish Donia G. , El‐Sherief Hany A. M. , Abdel‐Aziz Salah A. , Abuo‐Rahma Gamal El‐Din A.
Published: March 2024

Over the past decades, cancer has been a challenging domain for medicinal chemists as it is an international health concern. In association, small molecules such as 2‐aminothiophenes and their derivatives showed significant antitumor activity through variable modes of action. Therefore, this article aims to review the advances regarding these core scaffolds over the past 10 years, where 2‐aminothiophenes and their fused analogs are classified and discussed according to their biological activity and mode of action, in the interest of boosting new design pathways for medicinal chemists to develop targeted antitumor candidates.
Controllable Chemoselectivity Cascade Reactions for the Synthesis of Phenanthrenols via Palladium‐Catalyzed‐Suzuki/Heck Reaction and Michael Addition
Authors: Yongpanich Phornphan , Chatrangsan Kamonlak , Tummatorn Jumreang , Thongsornkleeb Charnsak , Ruchirawat Somsak
Published: March 2024

Palladium serves as a multi‐functional catalyst which is controllable by tuning reaction conditions. This work demonstrated the utilization of a palladium catalyst for the synthesis of phenanthrenols by cascade palladium‐catalyzed Suzuki/Heck reaction between chalcone and 2‐bromophenylboronic acid, followed by Michael addition. The sequential reaction could be controlled by reactivity of the palladium catalyst in different solvents and concentrations of reagents. This protocol could be applied to a broad range of substrates to give products in low to good yields.
Al−Air Batteries for Seasonal/Annual Energy Storage: Progress beyond Materials
Authors: Xu Cheng , Liu Xu , Sumińska‐Ebersoldt Olga , Passerini Stefano
Published: March 2024

Cost‐effective and zero‐carbon‐emission seasonal/annual energy storage is highly required to achieve the Zero Emission Scenario (ZES) by 2050. The combination of Al production via inert‐anode smelting and Al conversion to electricity via Al−air batteries is a potential option. Although playing an important role in this approach, Al−air batteries, however, suffer from limited specific energy and inefficient collection of the discharge product. Herein, an important progress in addressing these issues is summarized, emphasizing the importance of non‐material, but rather process‐related aspects. First, a recently reported approach allowing controllable collection of discharge product and electrolyte regeneration is presented. Next, the importance of cell design in addressing the obstacles of Al−air batteries is emphasized. Subsequently, the impact of operational parameters on improving electrochemical performance of Al−air batteries is summarized. Last, a perspective on future research directions is proposed.
Untargeted metabolomics reveals potential plasma biomarkers for diagnosis of primary aldosteronism using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Song Jing‐Jing , Cai Jun , Ma Wen‐Jun , Lou Ying , Bian Jin , Zhao Beibei , She Xuhui , Liu Xiao‐Ning
Published: March 2024

Metabolite profiling has the potential to comprehensively bridge phenotypes and complex heterogeneous physiological and pathological states. We performed a metabolomics study using parallel liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) combined with multivariate data analysis to screen for biomarkers of primary aldosteronism (PA) from a cohort of 111 PA patients and 218 primary hypertension (PH) patients. Hydrophilic interaction chromatography and reversed‐phase liquid chromatography separations were employed to obtain a global plasma metabolome of endogenous metabolites. The satisfactory classification between PA and PH patients was obtained using the MVDA model. A total of 35 differential metabolites were screened out and identified. A diagnostic biomarker panel was established using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) binary logistic regression model and receiver operating characteristic analysis. Joint analysis with clinical indicators, including plasma supine aldosterone level, plasma orthostatic aldosterone level, body mass index, and blood potassium, revealed that the combination of metabolite biomarker panel and plasma supine aldosterone has the best clinical diagnostic efficacy.
Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Biological Activities of 1,3,4‐ Thiadiazole Derivatives Containing Sulfonylpiperazine Structures
Authors: Liu You‐hua , Wang Fa‐li , Ren Xiao‐li , Li Chang‐kun , Jin Lin‐hong , Zhou Xia
Published: March 2024

To develop novel bacterial biofilm inhibiting agents, a series of 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives containing sulfonylpiperazine structures were designed, synthesized, and characterized using 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR), 13C nuclear magnetic resonance (13C NMR), and high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Meanwhile, their biological activities were evaluated, and the ensuing structure–activity relationships were discussed. The bioassay results showed the substantial antimicrobial efficacy exhibited by most of the compounds. Among them, compound A24 demonstrated a strong efficacy with an EC50 value of 7.8 μg/mL in vitro against the Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) pathogen, surpassing commercial agents thiodiazole copper (31.8 μg/mL) and bismerthiazol (43.3 μg/mL). Mechanistic investigations into its anti‐Xoc properties revealed that compound A24 operates by increasing the permeability of bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting biofilm formation and cell motility, and inducing morphological changes in bacterial cells. Importantly, in vivo tests showed its excellent protective and curative effects on rice bacterial leaf streak. Besides, molecular docking showed that the hydrophobic effect and hydrogen‐bond interactions are key factors between the binding of A24 and AvrRxo1‐ORF1. Therefore, these results suggest the utilization of 1,3,4‐thiadiazole derivatives containing sulfonylpiperazine structures as a bacterial biofilm inhibiting agent, warranting further exploration in the realm of agrochemical development.
Dihydroartemisinin eliminates senescent cells by promoting autophagy‐dependent ferroptosis via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Wan Xing , Li Can , Tan Yue Hao , Zuo Shi Qi , Deng Feng Mei , Sun Jing , Liu Yi Lun
Published: March 2024

Cellular senescence is an irreversible cell‐cycle arrest in response to a variety of cellular stresses, which contribute to the pathogenesis of a variety of age‐related degenerative diseases. However, effective antisenescence strategies are still lacking. Drugs that selectively target senescent cells represent an intriguing therapeutic strategy to delay aging and age‐related diseases. Thus, we thought to investigate the effects of dihydroartemisinin (DHA) on senescent cells and elucidated its mechanisms underlying aging. Stress‐induced premature senescence (SIPS) model was built in NIH3T3 cells using H2O2 and evaluated by β‐galactosidase staining. Cells were exposed to DHA and subjected to cellular activity assays including viability, ferroptosis, and autophagy. The number of microtubule‐associated protein light‐chain 3 puncta was detected by immunofluorescence staining. The iron content was assessed by spectrophotometer and intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured by fluorescent probe dichlorodihydrofluorescein diacetate. We found that DHA triggered senescent cell death via ferroptosis. DHA accelerated ferritin degradation via promoting autophagy, increasing the iron contents, promoting ROS accumulation, thus leading to ferroptotic cell death in SIPS cells. In addition, autophagy inhibitor BafA1 preconditioning inhibited ferroptosis induced by DHA. Moreover, Atg5 silencing and autophagy inhibitor BafA1 preconditioning inhibited ferroptosis induced by DHA. We also revealed that the expression of p‐AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and p‐mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in senescent cells was downregulated. These results suggested that DHA may be a promising drug candidate for clearing senescent cells by inducing autophagy‐dependent ferroptosis via AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
Identification and validation of m6A‐associated ferroptosis genes in renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Pang Shuo , Zhao Shuo , Dongye Yuxi , Fan Yidong , Liu Jikai
Published: March 2024

Urinary cancer is synonymous with clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Unfortunately, existing treatments for this illness are ineffective and unpromising. Finding novel ccRCC biomarkers is crucial to creating successful treatments.

The Cancer Genome Atlas provided clear cell renal cell carcinoma transcriptome data. Functional enrichment analysis was performed on ccRCC and control samples' differentially expressed N6‐methyladenosine RNA methylation and ferroptosis‐related genes (DEMFRGs). Machine learning was used to find and model ccRCC patients' predicted genes. A nomogram was created for clear cell renal cell carcinoma patients. Prognostic genes were enriched. We examined patients' immune profiles by risk score. Our prognostic genes predicted ccRCC treatment drugs.

We found 37 DEMFRGs by comparing 1913 differentially expressed ccRCC genes to 202 m6A RNA methylation FRGs. Functional enrichment analysis showed that hypoxia‐induced cell death and metabolism pathways were the most differentially expressed methylation functional regulating genes. Five prognostic genes were found by machine learning: TRIB3, CHAC1, NNMT, EGFR, and SLC1A4. An advanced renal cell carcinoma nomogram with age and risk score accurately predicted the outcome. These five prognostic genes were linked to various cancers. Immunological cell number and checkpoint expression differed between high‐ and low‐risk groups. The risk model successfully predicted immunotherapy outcome, showing high‐risk individuals had poor results. NIACIN, TAE‐684, ROCILETINIB, and others treat ccRCC. We found ccRCC prognostic genes that work. This discovery may lead to new ccRCC treatments.
“Can You Hear Me Now?”
Authors: Davis Thamara , Anderson Janet
Published: March 2024

Over the past 7 decades, there have been persistent but marginalized voices within our field calling for clinicians to be trained and competent in culturally responsive approaches to treatment and supervision. The voices are myriad. Yet these voices have consistently been diminished. Despite scholarly work to support the call for practitioners to incorporate training and practices that recognize race, ethnic heritage, racism, socio‐economic status, power, and privilege as key elements that contribute to the unique challenges and strengths of the patients we serve, the predominant assessments, interventions, and supervisory curricula remain devoid of such inclusion.
Bi site doped Ferroelectric BiFe0.95Mn0.05O3 Nanoparticles for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Dubey Astita , Sanjuán Ignacio , Andronescu Corina , Lupascu Doru C.
Published: March 2024

The investigation delves into the functionality exhibited by ferroelectric BiFe0.95Mn0.05O3 (BFM) nanoparticles (NPs) concerning the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The electrocatalytic activity of BFM NPs undergoes a transformative shift as a consequence of mono‐, di‐, and tri‐valent cation substitution. Notably, the strategic engineering of doping at the Bi site within BFM NPs yields a remarkable outcome, namely the conspicuous reduction of the kinetic overpotential prerequisite for HER. This diminished overpotential in doped BFM NPs arises from the confluence of multifarious factors: diminished charge transfer resistance, augmented specific surface area, a discernible distribution of pore sizes ranging from narrow to broad, particles endowed with a shape boasting abundant active facets, and the integration of dopants as novel active sites on the surface. Furthermore, the presence of surface defects, oxygen vacancies, and amplified microstrain within doped BFM NPs contributes to the reduction in overpotential.
Remote Fluorination of α,β‐Unsaturated Carbonyls via Silyl Dienol Ethers
Authors: Galaktionova Daria V. , Siddiqui Sara Y. , Mohr Justin T.
Published: March 2024

We report a general, regioselective, and metal free γ‐fluorination of α,β‐unsaturated carbonyls via silyl dienol ethers that are readily prepared from simple ketones and aldehydes. The transformation displays broad scope including 27 cyclic and acyclic siloxydienes providing γ‐fluoro compounds in 28–91 % yield. Notably, the reported conditions are also suitable for the synthesis of challenging tertiary fluorides. The regioselectivity of the reaction was studied on a series of acyclic siloxydienes and was observed to be sensitive to the conformational flexibility of the substrate. Diversification of the γ‐fluorocarbonyls demonstrates the promise of fluorine as a stereocontrol element.
Impact of Pickering Emulsions Composition on Lipase Catalyzed Peroxyacetic Acid Synthesis
Authors: Adomi Lemuel , Drews Anja
Published: March 2024

Due to the need for environmental protection and sustainability, there has been a rising need to replace the traditionally harsh oxidative functionalization process, which is essential for syntheses of various organic compounds, by biocatalysis. However, the investigated alternative processes are still challenged with enzyme instability and/or low specific reaction rate. Due to these still existing challenges and the recognition of Pickering emulsions as an efficient platform for continuous biphasic biocatalysis, the first, enzymatic step of the lipase catalyzed oxidative functionalization was investigated in bioactive Pickering emulsions. The study focused on the impact of Pickering emulsion composition such as the volume phase fraction, type and concentration of the nanoparticles and enzymes on continuous peroxyacetic acids synthesis. The type of nanoparticles used and Candida antarctica lipase B concentration significantly impacted the process while the other named parameters only had a marginal influence.
A deep learning model of dance generation for young children based on music rhythm and beat
Authors: Kong Shanshan
Published: March 2024

With the development of technology, research related to music‐based dance generation models has been increasing. Some of the studies have applied algorithms to dance generation models, but these algorithms suffer from problems such as the inability to make an exact match between music and dance. To solve these problems, the research innovatively proposes a deep learning toddler dance generation model based on music rhythm and beat to extract music and dance features respectively. In addition, the study generates smooth dances through a generator module, improves the match between the dances and music generated by the model through a discriminator, and enhances the representativeness of audio features through a self‐encoder module. Finally, the study completes the validation of the model by comparing the loss functions and other aspects. Results demonstrate that this model has the smallest loss value of 17.58, and that the model generates a better match between dance and music for different music, with values of 8.9, 8, and 7.4. Compared with the comparison model, the study's model for generating dances for young children has better results in terms of dance generation. The study solves the problem that previous algorithms cannot make an exact match between music and dance, and has implications for fields such as cross‐modal generation and games.
A Randomized Trial Comparing Standard of Care to Bayesian Warfarin Dose Individualization
Authors: Xue Ling , Ma Guangda , Holford Nick , Qin Qiong , Ding Yinglong , Hannam Jacqueline A. , Ding Xiaoliang , Fan Hongyou , Ji Zhenchun , Yang Biwen , Shen Han , Shen Zhenya , Miao Liyan
Published: March 2024

The quality of warfarin treatment may be improved if management is guided by the use of models based upon pharmacokinetic‐pharmacodynamic theory. A prospective, two‐armed, single‐blind, randomized controlled trial compared management aided by a web‐based dose calculator (NextDose) with standard clinical care. Participants were 240 adults receiving warfarin therapy following cardiac surgery, followed up until the first outpatient appointment at least 3 months after warfarin initiation. We compared the percentage of time spent in the international normalized ratio acceptable range (%TIR) during the first 28 days following warfarin initiation, and %TIR and count of bleeding events over the entire follow‐up period. Two hundred thirty‐four participants were followed up to day 28 (NextDose: 116 and standard of care: 118), and 228 participants (114 per arm) were followed up to the final study visit. Median %TIR tended to be higher for participants receiving NextDose guided warfarin management during the first 28 days (63 vs. 56%, P = 0.13) and over the entire follow‐up period (74 vs. 71%, P = 0.04). The hazard of clinically relevant minor bleeding events was lower for participants in the NextDose arm (hazard ratio: 0.21, P = 0.041). In NextDose, there were 89.3% of proposed doses accepted by prescribers. NextDose guided dose management in cardiac surgery patients requiring warfarin was associated with an increase in %TIR across the full follow‐up period and fewer hemorrhagic events. A theory‐based, pharmacologically guided approach facilitates higher quality warfarin anticoagulation. An important practical benefit is a reduced requirement for clinical experience of warfarin management.
A general, resource‐based explanation for density dependence in populations of large herbivores
Authors: Hobbs N. Thompson
Published: March 2024

The discipline of ecology seeks to understand how ecosystems, communities, and populations are regulated. A ubiquitous mechanism of population regulation of consumers is that capturing energy and nutrients in sufficient quantities for survival and reproduction becomes more difficult as population density increases. Extensive evidence has revealed that populations of large herbivores are often regulated by density dependence, defined as the reduction in the per‐capita population growth rate that occurs as populations grow large. Diminished body mass of individuals has been repeatedly observed in high‐density populations, implicating compromised nutrition as the primary cause of density dependence. However, there is no general explanation for why these nutritional deficiencies occur. Recent work demonstrated that reduced food intake rates resulting from the functional response of herbivores to depleted plant biomass does not provide a sensible explanation for density dependence because rates of food intake of herbivores are often insensitive to changes in plant biomass. A new model of feedbacks from plant biomass to herbivores shows how reduced nutrition of herbivores can result from increased dilution of nutrients in the plant tissue they consume as populations grow, even when their rate of consumption of plants remains constant. The model contains parameters that can be scaled to body mass, allowing unusually general predictions. The model shows that convex, concave, and linear relationships between the per‐capita growth rate and population density can arise from the effects of depletion of plant biomass by herbivore foraging. The model is the first to explicitly include spatial variance in the nutritional quality of plants as a general driver of herbivore population dynamics. I show how regulation of herbivore abundance by plant nutrients can occur, even when a large fraction of the consumable plant biomass remains uneaten, providing a simple, mechanistic explanation for bottom‐up control of population dynamics of primary consumers in a “green world.”
Epicardial adipose tissue and pericardial constraint in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Crum Yoran , Hoendermis Elke S. , van Veldhuisen Dirk J. , van Woerden Gijs , Lobeek Michelle , Dickinson Michael G. , Meems Laura M.G. , Voors Adriaan A. , Rienstra Michiel , Gorter Thomas M.
Published: March 2024

Aims

Obesity and epicardial adiposity play a role in the pathophysiology of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and both are associated with increased filling pressures and reduced exercise capacity. The haemodynamic basis for these observations remains inaccurately defined. We hypothesize that an abundance of epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) within the pericardial sac is associated with haemodynamic signs of pericardial constraint.

Methods and results

HFpEF patients who underwent invasive heart catheterization with simultaneous echocardiography were included. Right atrial pressure (RAP), right ventricular end‐diastolic pressure, and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) were invasively measured. The presence of a square root sign on the right ventricular pressure waveform and the RAP/PCWP ratio (surrogate parameters for pericardial constraint) were investigated. EAT thickness alongside the right ventricle was measured on echocardiography. Sixty‐four patients were studied, with a mean age of 73 ± 10 years, 64% women, and a mean body mass index (BMI) of 28.6 ± 5.4 kg/m2. In total, 47 patients (73%) had a square root sign. The presence of a square root sign was associated with higher BMI (29.3 vs. 26.7 kg/m2, P = 0.02), higher EAT (4.0 vs. 3.4 mm, P = 0.03), and higher RAP (9 vs. 6 mmHg, P = 0.04). Women had more EAT than men (4.1 vs. 3.5 mm, P = 0.04), despite a comparable BMI. Women with a square root sign had significantly higher EAT (4.3 vs. 3.3 mm, P = 0.02), a higher mean RAP (9 vs. 5 mmHg, P = 0.02), and a higher RAP/PCWP ratio (0.52 vs. 0.26, P = 0.002). In men, such associations were not seen, although there was no significant interaction between men and women (P > 0.05 for all analyses).

Conclusions

Obesity and epicardial adiposity are associated with haemodynamic signs of pericardial constraint in patients with HFpEF. The pathophysiological and therapeutic implications of this finding need further study.
Reliability and validity of free‐weight countermovement jumps to characterize force‐velocity‐power profiles
Authors: Jonson Andrew M. , Girard Olivier , Wall Bradley A. , Walden Thomas P. , Goods Paul S. R. , Galna Brook , Scott Brendan R.
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to determine test‐retest reliability and concurrent validity of vertical force‐velocity‐power (FVP) profiles using Smith machine and free‐weight countermovement jumps (CMJs). A repeated‐measure cross‐over design with randomized load order and counterbalanced trials was employed. Sixteen resistance‐trained males (age: 26.4 ± 3.9 years, height: 179.6 ± 8.1 cm, body mass: 84.5 ± 10.8 kg) performed maximal loaded CMJs with 4–50 kg on six occasions, with three trials utilizing a Smith machine and three utilizing free‐weights. Jump height was estimated with a linear‐position transducer, and the Samozino computation method estimated theoretical maximal jump parameters. Reliability and concurrent validity were determined for jump height for each jump load and estimated theoretical maximal jump parameters using estimates of bias (mean difference, 95% limits of agreement) and agreement (intraclass correlation coefficients, ICCs). The jump height and maximum theoretical power demonstrated good‐to‐excellent reliability between sessions for both methods (ICC: 0.872–0.947) and concurrent validity between methods (ICC: 0.885–0.969). However, reliability for theoretical maximal force, velocity, and force‐velocity gradient was not as high using either method (ICC = 0.320–0.615) and concurrent validity was poor (ICC: 0.122–0.340). In summary, using both jump methods, a linear‐position transducer provides reliable jump height and theoretical maximal power values. However, our data do not support the reliability or validity of FV relationships using linear position transducers.