bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired Superstrong, Wet Adhesive Deep Eutectic Solvent‐Based Gels for Stain Sensing and ECG Monitoring
Authors: Yang Jinxue , Zhang Xuhang , Zhao Zhenjie , Wang Xue , Liang Zhenhu , Liang Yongri , Dan Liu Ying
Published: August 2024

Low mechanical properties and easy detachment from the hydration layer at the wet interface of hydrogel limit its application as an adhesive‐flexible sensor. In this study, the composition and structure of mussel mucoprotein are replicated using sulfonyl betaine (SBMA) containing zwitterion and N‐hydroxyethyl acrylamide to be polymerized in deep eutectic solvents and integrated with a polydopamine network to create a bionic eutectic gel with exceptionally strong and wet adhesion. Water erosion is effectively inhibited by the extensive hydrogen bond and electrostatic interactions. These dynamic bonds also impart self‐healing properties to the gel, showing a self‐healing efficiency of 55.45% after 48 h healing at room temperature. The zwitterion in SBMA can preferentially react with water to form a hydrated shell to protect the hydrogen bonds and enhance the exceptional water resistance and adhesion of the gel. The peel strength of the gel on a wet substrate is up to 220.71 N m−1, and its tensile strength can reach 1.01 MPa. It also has good mass stability at both low and high temperatures. This eutectic gel has the potential to be used in flexible electronic devices and can detect human movement and bioelectrical impulses on wet skin with great sensitivity.
Heterogeneous Organohydrogel Toward Automated and Interference‐Free Gradient Feeding of Drugs in Cell Screening
Authors: Gao Hongxiao , Wan Xizi , Xiao Wu‐Yi , Yang Yuemeng , Lu Jingwei , Wu Shihao , Xu Li‐Ping , Wang Shutao
Published: August 2024

Cell‐based microarrays are widely used in the fields of drug discovery and toxicology. Precise gradient generation and automated drug feeding are essential for high‐throughput screening of live cells in tiny droplets. However, most existing technologies either require sophisticated robotic equipment or cause mechanical/physiological interference with cells. Here, a heterogeneous organohydrogel is presented for automated gradient drug feeding, while ensuring minimal interference with cells. The heterogeneous organohydrogel comprises three crucial components. The bottom surface can automatically generate gradients functioning as a gradient generator, the organohydrogel bulk allows unidirectional transport of drugs without backflow, and the top surface with hydrophilic arrays can firmly anchor the cell‐based droplet array to evaluate the concentration‐dependent bioeffects of drugs accurately. Such a unique structure enables universal screening of different cell types and drugs dissolved in different solvents, requiring neither additional accessories nor arduous drug functionalization. The heterogeneous organohydrogel with unprecedented automation and non‐interference possesses the enormous potential to be a next‐generation platform for drug screening.
Regulating the Water Dissociation on Atomic Iron Sites to Speed Up CO2 Protonation and Achieve pH‐Universal CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Tang Qi , Hao Qi , Wu Junxiu , Zhang Yaowen , Sun Ping , Wang Depeng , Tian Chuan , Zhong Haixia , Zhu Yihan , Huang Keke , Liu Kai , Zhang Xinbo , Lu Jun
Published: August 2024

Atomic Fe sites enabled electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) reduction (ECO2R) to carbon monoxide (CO) at low overpotentials. However, the narrow potential ranges for selective CO2 conversion on atomic Fe sites hindered the CO production at high current densities. Therefore, unveiling the CO2 electroreduction processes and clarifying the catalytic mechanisms on different atomic Fe sites are important for better design of atomic Fe catalysts toward efficient ECO2R. Herein, the ECO2R processes on single‐atom, dual‐atom, and cluster Fe sites are systematically investigated, and clarify that the balanced water dissociation and CO2 protonation on dual‐atom Fe sites promote the efficient CO production. The dual‐atom Fe catalyst achieves Faradaic efficiencies of CO (FECO) above 92% over a wide potential range of −0.4–−0.9 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode and maintains FECO of 91% after 153‐h electrolysis in H‐type cell. Benefitting from the favorable CO2 protonation for ECO2R on dual‐atom Fe sites, pH‐universal CO2 electroreduction is achieved in alkali‐/acid‐/bicarbonate‐fed membrane electrode assembly electrolyzer, with FECO exceeds 98% in strongly acidic/alkaline and neutral mediums. The work reveals a water dissociation‐promoted CO2 electroreduction on dual‐atom Fe sites and presents a feasible regulation of atomic Fe sites for highly active/selective ECO2R.
Induced C−C Coupling by Amorphous‐Crystalline Hybrid Structure for Selective CO2 Photoreduction into C2 Fuels
Authors: He Dongpo , Huang Guangbing , Hu Jun , Ding Jinyu , Liu Wenxiu , Chen Liang , Yan Wensheng , Zhu Junfa , Zhu Shan , Chen Qingxia , Jiao Xingchen , Xie Yi
Published: August 2024

Selective photoreduction of carbon dioxide (CO2) into high‐value C2 products remains a formidable challenge due to the elusive C−C coupling step. Herein, the novel concept is first introduced that an amorphous‐crystalline hybrid structure can galvanize previously inert metal atoms, thereby establishing highly active dual sites. This ingenious configuration promotes the C−C coupling, paving the way for CO2 photoreduction into C2 products. Taking the Bi2MoO6 nanosheets anchored by amorphous FeOOH species as an example, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) spectra and X‐ray absorption near edge structure spectra and density functional theoretical (DFT) calculations confirm the electron transfer from FeOOH to Bi2MoO6 nanosheets. Thus, the introduction of FeOOH activates the nonoperative Bi sites for the construction of Bi−Mo dual sites, verified by the in situ XPS spectra and DFT calculations. Gibbs free energy calculations revealed the formation energy barrier of C−C coupling is hugely lowed from 3.41 to 0.45 eV thanks to the presence of FeOOH species. Therefore, the FeOOHBi2MoO6 nanosheets are a game changer, delivering the sole liquid product, acetic acid, with an impressive electron selectivity of ≈86.9%. In contrast, the Bi2MoO6 nanosheets lag behind, only capable of producing carbon monoxide from CO2 photoreduction.
Construction and modulation of aggregation‐induced emission materials based on dynamic covalent bonds
Authors: Zheng Mingxin , Wang Yang , Hu Danning , Tian Mei , Wei Yen , Yuan Jinying
Published: August 2024

The remarkable advantages and promising application potentials of aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) materials have seen significant advancements in recent years. Notably, AIE materials incorporating dynamic covalent bonds (DCBs) have garnered escalating attention and demonstrated remarkable progress due to their reversible and self‐adaptive properties, thus exhibiting immense potential across various domains including biomedicine, nanomaterials, sensing, and optical displays. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the recent strides in DCBs‐based AIE materials, organized by the types of dynamic covalent bonds utilized, such as Diels–Alder reaction, imine bond, transesterification, boronic ester bond, disulfide bond, [2+2] Cycloaddition Reaction and X‐yne adducts exchange. Through exemplifying representative cases, we elucidate the design principles of chemical structures and the diverse dynamic behaviors exhibited by DCBs‐based AIE materials. Leveraging the principles of dynamic covalent chemistry, these emissive materials can be facilely prepared, and they possess inherent self‐adaptability and responsiveness to stimuli. Finally, we present succinct conclusions and discuss future trends in this burgeoning field, offering fresh insights into the design of novel luminescent materials based on dynamic covalent bonds for broader applications.
CCDC47 gene and trichohepatoneurodevelopmental syndrome: Report of the fifth and sixth cases from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsubeeh Najlaa A. , Almuqbil Mohammed A. , Davies William , Bertoli‐Avella Aida , Anikar Swathi , Zonic Emir , Eyaid Wafaa M.
Published: August 2024

Trichohepatoneurodevelopmental syndrome (THNS) is an ultra‐rare and complex disorder affecting multiple organ systems. It is characterized by liver dysfunction, hypotonia, global developmental delay, coarse hair, and dysmorphic features. We describe two cases of THNS of Saudi origin, the fifth and sixth cases in the medical literature. Both cases presented with multiple dysmorphic features, generalized hypotonia, global developmental delay, and high liver enzyme level. Exome sequencing of Case 1 identified a pathogenic homozygous variant within the CCDC47: NM_020198.2:c.567_570del, p.(Glu190Profs*7). Genome sequencing of Case 2 identified two likely pathogenic heterozygous variants within the CCDC47: NM_020198.2:c.1327C>T, p.(Arg443*) and NM_020198.2:c.422dup, p.(Leu141Phefs*19). The trans phase of the detected variants has been confirmed by the parental testing. Furthermore, we evaluated the gene–disease association as per ClinGen guidelines and reached a strong level of association after inclusion of the new patients/variants. The findings from these cases will help to delineate the clinical phenotype and the mutational spectrum of this complex disorder.
Gas Tunnel Engineering of Prolyl Hydroxylase Reprograms Hypoxia Signaling in Cells
Authors: Windsor Peter , Ouyang Haiping , G. da Costa Joseph A. , Rama Damodaran Anoop , Chen Yue , Bhagi‐Damodaran Ambika
Published: August 2024

Cells have evolved intricate mechanisms for recognizing and responding to changes in oxygen (O2) concentrations. Here, we have reprogrammed cellular hypoxia (low O2) signaling via gas tunnel engineering of prolyl hydroxylase 2 (PHD2), a non‐heme iron dependent O2 sensor. Using computational modeling and protein engineering techniques, we identify a gas tunnel and critical residues therein that limit the flow of O2 to PHD2’s catalytic core. We show that systematic modification of these residues can open the constriction topology of PHD2’s gas tunnel. Using kinetic stopped‐flow measurements with NO as a surrogate diatomic gas, we demonstrate up to 3.5‐fold enhancement in its association rate to the iron center of tunnel‐engineered mutants. Our most effectively designed mutant displays 9‐fold enhanced catalytic efficiency (kcat/KM=830±40 M−1 s−1) in hydroxylating a peptide mimic of hypoxia inducible transcription factor HIF‐1α, as compared to WT PHD2 (kcat/KM=90±9 M−1 s−1). Furthermore, transfection of plasmids that express designed PHD2 mutants in HEK‐293T mammalian cells reveal significant reduction of HIF‐1α and downstream hypoxia response transcripts under hypoxic conditions of 1 % O2. Overall, these studies highlight activation of PHD2 as a new pathway to reprogram hypoxia responses and HIF signaling in cells.
Promoting CO2 Electroreduction to Hydrocarbon Products via Sulfur‐Enhanced Proton Feeding in Atomically Precise Thiolate‐Protected Cu Clusters
Authors: Li Jun‐Kang , Dong Jian‐Peng , Liu Shuang‐Shuang , Hua Yue , Zhao Xue‐Li , Li Zhongjun , Zhao Shu‐Na , Zang Shuang‐Quan , Wang Rui
Published: August 2024

Thiolate‐protected Cu clusters with well‐defined structures and stable low‐coordinated Cu+ species exhibit remarkable potential for the CO2RR and are ideal model catalysts for establishing structure‐electrocatalytic property relationships at the atomic level. However, extant Cu clusters employed in the CO2RR predominantly yield 2e− products. Herein, two model Cu4(MMI)4 and Cu8(MMI)4(tBuS)4 clusters (MMI=2‐mercapto‐1‐methylimidazole) are prepared to investigate the synergistic effect of Cu+ and adjacent S sites on the CO2RR. Cu4(MMI)4 can reduce CO2 to deep‐reduced products with a 91.0 % Faradaic efficiency (including 53.7 % for CH4) while maintaining remarkable stability. Conversely, Cu8(MMI)4(tBuS)4 shows a remarkable preference for C2+ products, achieving a maximum FE of 58.5 % with a C2+ current density of 152.1 mA⋅cm−2. In situ XAS and ex situ XPS spectra reveal the preservation of Cu+ species in Cu clusters during CO2RR, extensively enhancing the adsorption capacity of *CO intermediate. Moreover, kinetic analysis and theoretical calculations confirm that S sites facilitate H2O dissociation into *H species, which directly participate in the protonation process on adjacent Cu sites for the protonation of *CO to *CHO. This study highlights the important role of Cu−S dual sites in Cu clusters and provides mechanistic insights into the CO2RR pathway at the atomic level.
Amplification and Attenuation of Asymmetry via Kinetically Controlled Seed‐Induced Supramolecular Polymerization
Authors: Das Angshuman , Ghosh Saikat , George Subi J.
Published: August 2024

The amplification of asymmetry in supramolecular polymers has recently garnered significant attention. While asymmetry amplification has predominantly been explored under thermodynamic conditions, the kinetic aspect of this process unveils intriguing observations, yet is scarcely reported in the literature. Herein, drawing inspiration from macromolecular systems, we propose a novel strategy for enhancing asymmetry in supramolecular polymers through a seed‐induced supramolecular polymerization approach under kinetic conditions, employing a naphthalene diimide‐derived monomer (ANSG) for template‐induced supramolecular polymerization, utilizing adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and pyrophosphate (PPi) as templates. A chiral seed comprising [ANSG‐ATP]S effectively amplifies the overall supramolecular asymmetry when exposed to a mixture of achiral templates (PPi) and monomers (ANSG), owing to its efficient seeding characteristics under kinetic conditions. As a result of efficient co‐operativity, conversely, employing an achiral seed [ANSG‐PPi]S in a mixture of chiral templates (ATP) and monomers (ANSG) results in the attenuation of asymmetry, highlighting the effective modulation achievable through the seeding approach, an unprecedented observation in the field. Exploiting the efficient aggregation‐induced emission enhancement (AIEE) of the resultant supramolecular polymers further extends the amplification and attenuation of circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) as a potential function.
Heritage and identity: returning to ancestral pathways of the Siraya indigenous archaeology
Authors: Kuo‐Feng Chung , Akatuang Alak
Published: August 2024

In recent years, Taiwan's Indigenous community has been actively demanding the repatriation and reburial of ancestral remains, seeking historical justice for colonial wrongs, asserting the community's rights to traditional territories, and pushing for recognition of their long‐standing existence and legal status as Indigenous peoples. In 2022, archeologists consulted and cooperated with the Siraya people, proposing “The Siraya Indigenous Archaeological Action Plan.” The aim is to re‐balance the power relations between archeologists and Indigenous peoples, seek a diversity of voices and methods, and put the social practice of archaeology at the trowel's edge into practice. The action plan was carried out within the Siraya Soulangh abandoned settlement, with the Siraya people joining the investigation and excavation work, physically touching important parts of their ancestral cultural heritage. Other efforts include reviving the traditional Siraya systems of the male age‐set organization and the national assembly, consolidating the ethnic identity of the contemporary Siraya people, and sustaining their societal and cultural systems. These endeavors have helped fill the huge historical gap left by colonizers, empowering the Siraya people to claim ownership over the abandoned settlement cultural heritage that has a direct cultural connection with their community, push for recognition of their long‐standing and continuous existence in Taiwan, and acquire legal status as Indigenous peoples.
Rational H2 Partial Pressure over Nickel/Ceria Crystal Enables Efficient and Durable Wide‐Temperature‐Zone Air‐Level CO2 Methanation
Authors: Yang Chaoyang , Zhang Junlei , Liu Weiping , Cheng Yao , Yang Xueyi , Wang Wanglei
Published: August 2024

On the way to carbon neutrality, directly catalyzing atmospheric CO2 into high‐value chemicals might be an effective approach to mitigate the negative impacts of rising airborne CO2 concentrations. Here, we pioneer the investigation of the influence of the H2/CO2 partial pressure ratio (PPR) on air‐level CO2 methanation. Using Ni/CeO2 as a case catalyst, increasing H2/CO2 PPR significantly improves low‐temperature CO2 conversion and high‐temperature CH4 selectivity, i. e., from 10 of H2/CO2 PPR on, CO2 is completely methanized at 250 °C, and nearly 100 % CH4 selectivity is achieved at 400 °C. 100‐hour stability tests demonstrate the practical application potential of Ni/CeO2 at 250 °C and 400 °C. In‐situ DRIFTS reveal that reinforced formate pathway by increasing H2/CO2 PPR is responsible for the high CH4 yield. In contrast, even though the CO pathway dominated CO2 conversion on Ni is enhanced by rising H2/CO2 PPR, but at a high reaction temperature, the promoted CO desorption still leads to lower CH4 selectivity. This work offers deep insights into the direct air‐level CO2 resourceization, contributing to the achievement of airborne CO2 reductions.
The use of graphene nanoplatelet‐embedded PA‐6 nanofibres to remove turbidity from water
Authors: Zembat Ahmet Alp , Gezmis‐Yavuz Elifnur , Koseoglu‐Imer Derya Y. , Cansoy C. Elif
Published: August 2024

The global challenge of providing clean water at an affordable cost has led to the need for the development of low‐cost and non‐toxic materials for the treatment and recycling of waste water. Nanofibres have emerged as a promising solution due to their superior properties. To this end, composite polyamide‐6 (PA‐6) nanofibres embedded with graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were prepared by electrospinning. The study investigated the effect of the ratio of GNPs, which ranged from 0.1 to 1.0 wt.%, on the mechanical properties of nanofibres and the removal of turbidity. The results showed that PA‐6 nanofibres with 0.5 wt.% GNP exhibited enhanced mechanical properties, and increasing the GNP ratio led to lower turbidity values. To the best of our knowledge, GNP‐embedded PA‐6 nanofibres have not been used for turbidity removal before, and these filter materials are promising due to their excellent fibre structure, mechanical strength, and high level of turbidity removal.
Modular, Scalable Total Synthesis of Neopetromin†
Authors: Ogawa Hiroshige , Nagata Yuuya , Nakamura Hugh
Published: August 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The first total synthesis of neopetromin, featuring the highly strained Tyr C‐6‐to‐Trp N‐1’ linkage, is hereby reported. This modular synthetic strategy, employing C—H arylation and Larock macrocyclization, offers a novel approach to the synthesis of various RiPPs natural product families.
Debiased lasso after sample splitting for estimation and inference in high‐dimensional generalized linear models
Authors: Vazquez Omar , Nan Bin
Published: August 2024

We consider random sample splitting for estimation and inference in high‐dimensional generalized linear models (GLMs), where we first apply the lasso to select a submodel using one subsample and then apply the debiased lasso to fit the selected model using the remaining subsample. We show that a sample splitting procedure based on the debiased lasso yields asymptotically normal estimates under mild conditions and that multiple splitting can address the loss of efficiency. Our simulation results indicate that using the debiased lasso instead of the standard maximum likelihood method in the estimation stage can vastly reduce the bias and variance of the resulting estimates. Furthermore, our multiple splitting debiased lasso method has better numerical performance than some existing methods for high‐dimensional GLMs proposed in the recent literature. We illustrate the proposed multiple splitting method with an analysis of the smoking data of the Mid‐South Tobacco Case–Control Study.
Pt12H24−: A Cuboctahedral Platinum Hydride Cluster Cage
Authors: Gojare Siddhi , Bumüller Dennis , Kohaut Stephan , Kraft Manuel , Heiz Ulrich , Kappes Manfred M. , Fink Karin , Schooss Detlef
Published: August 2024

The platinum hydride cluster Pt12H24− is studied in gas phase by a combination of trapped ion electron diffraction and density functional theory computations. We find a cuboctahedral platinum cage with bridge bound hydrogen atoms. This unusual structure is stabilized by Pt‐H‐Pt multicenter bonds and shows characteristics of spherical aromaticity.
Band Alignment and Surface Photo‐Voltage Analysis of C‐Si/Siox/Poly‐Silicon Passivating‐Contact Stacks Through X‐Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Alzahrani Areej , Harrison George T. , Allen Thomas G. , De Bastiani Michele , Razzaq Arsalan , Van Kerschaver Emmanuel , De Wolf Stefaan
Published: August 2024

Ultrathin SiOx layers and c‐Si/SiOx interfaces find application in tunnel‐oxide passivated contacts (TOPcon) for high‐efficiency silicon solar cells. Here, we investigate their detailed microscopic properties, with specific attention for the case of c‐Si(100) substrates, capped either by p‐type or n‐type poly‐silicon layers [c‐Si/SiOx/poly‐Si (p+) or c‐Si/SiOx/poly‐Si (n+)]. Our focus is on the effects of the substrate preparation conditions (either by a dry‐plasma or wet SiOx process) and the high‐temperature annealing step (as required for the poly‐Si crystallization) on the SiOx stoichiometry and its microscopic structure. Through advanced photoemission techniques, we find a clearly decreased valence band offset between the c‐Si and SiOx (from 4.5 eV to 4.15 eV) when comparing the dry SiOx with the wet SiOx process, independent of the SiOx film thickness, but correlating with the relative fraction of sub‐stochiometric Si states. We lastly examine the magnitude of band‐bending of the contact structure through controlled in‐situ exposure to light of the surfaces and subsequent tracking of core and valence band levels via a surface photovoltage and a junction photo‐voltage (JPV) effect. By analyzing this JPV effect qualitatively, we find it to be proportional to the expected quasi fermi level splitting within the c‐Si wafer.
Fragmented Polymetric Carbon Nitride with Rich Defects for Boosting Electrochemical Synthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide in Alkaline and Neutral Media
Authors: Ma Lixia , Yang Jie , Yang Peiyan , Huang Luo , Zhou Xiaojie , Zhao Xuqian , Kang Jianghao , Fang Yunpeng , Jiang Ruibin
Published: August 2024

Electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction via 2e− pathway is a safe and friendly route for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) synthesis. In order to achieve efficient synthesis of H2O2, it is essential to accurately control the active sites. Here, fragmented polymetric carbon nitride with rich defects (DCN) is designed for H2O2 electrosynthesis. The multi‐type defects, including the sodium atom doping in six‐fold cavities, the boron atom doping at N−B‐N sites and the cyano groups, are successfully created. Owing to the synergistic effect of these defects, the fragmented DCN achieves a high H2O2 production rate of 2.28 mol gcat.−1 h−1 and a high Faradic efficiency of nearly 90 % in alkaline media at 0.4 V vs. RHE in H‐type cell. In neutral media, the H2O2 concentration produced by DCN can reach 1815 μM within 6 h at a potential of 0.2 V vs. RHE, and the H2O2 production rate of DCN is 0.23 mol gcat.−1 h−1. In addition, DCN shows excellent long‐term durability in alkaline and neutral media. This study provides a new approach for the development of the boron, nitrogen doped carbon‐based electrocatalysts for H2O2 electrochemical synthesis.
Developmental ecology in embryos of an estuarine pupfish endemic of the Yucatan peninsula: Survival out of water, metabolic depression, and asynchronous hatching
Authors: Domínguez‐Castanedo Omar , Valdez‐Carbajal Sharon
Published: August 2024

Background

Theory predicts that drought‐resistant embryos with extended incubations are evolutionarily favored in environments with high mortality of larvae but safe for eggs. Here, we experimentally test, under common garden conditions, the effect of three incubation temperatures and media on embryonic developmental length, extended incubation out of the water, survival, metabolic rate, and hatching dynamics in the estuarine pupfish Garmanella pulchra. We also described the morphological changes of embryonic cortical structures related to air exposure.

Results

We found that embryos incubated out of water in low and medium temperatures present an extended incubation period beyond their hatching capability with a deep metabolic depression. Also, these embryos exhibited a hatching asynchrony not related to water availability. Embryos incubated at high temperatures did not show extended incubation, with decreased probability of survival out of water. Our morphological observations of the embryonic cortical structures reveal that the perivitelline space and hair‐like filaments buffer the deleterious drought effects.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that G. pulchra possesses life‐history traits typical of two separate phenomena: delay hatching and diapause; supporting a true continuum between them, rather than a dichotomy. The evolution of these traits may respond to aerial exposure during low tides in the estuaries of Yucatán they inhabit.
Modelling the ecohydrological plasticity in soil hydraulic properties of Sphagnum mosses
Authors: McCarter Colin P. R. , Golubev Vitaly , Whittington Pete
Published: August 2024

Sphagnum mosses are a keystone peatland species whose ecohydrology governs carbon sequestration processes in many peatlands. Globally, there are ~380 Sphagnum species that occupy a wide range of ecohydrological niches (microforms) based on their ability to grow at or above the water table, broadly grouped by hummock (furthest from water table), lawn, and hollow (closest to water table) microforms. The further from the water table a given species can grow is controlled by the ability to effectively retain and transmit water to the capitula (growing surface) during dry periods. However, Sphagnum species can have a relatively plastic ecohydrological niche, often occupying different niches (microforms) in different environments. We used numerical modelling parameterized by previous field and laboratory studies to compare the hydrological function between Sphagnum hummock, lawn, and hollow microforms. We determined (a) how two different organizations of a hummock of Sphagnum fuscum and (b) a lawn or hollow of S. magellanicum (S. divinum/S. medium) or S. rubellum differed between two different overarching climates (sub‐humid boreal and humid temperate). The hydrological function, expressed as the cumulative water fluxes, was similar between species and ecohydrological microform (water table position) when water was plentiful, despite differences in soil hydraulic properties of the same species, but began to diverge during a prolonged simulated dry period (30‐day drought). These results suggest a single species of Sphagnum moss can exhibit a wide range of soil hydraulic properties (i.e., sphagnum morphology) but have essentially the same consequential hydrology. Only the S. fuscum from the sub‐humid climate was hydrologically stressed enough to show differences in the simulated evaporation rates. This study highlights the need for more physical research to determine the sensitivity of Sphagnum spp.'s soil hydraulic properties to overarching hydroclimatic factors so that we can more effectively incorporate these processes into large‐scale numerical modelling efforts.
Transcatheter aortic valve implantation for combined aortic and mitral stenoses: Insights from the OCEAN‐TAVI Registry
Authors: Kato Nahoko , Tabata Minoru , Noguchi Masahiko , Ito Joji , Obunai Kotaro , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Yashima Fumiaki , Shirai Shinichi , Tada Norio , Naganuma Toru , Yamawaki Masahiro , Yamanaka Futoshi , Ueno Hiroshi , Ohno Yohei , Izumo Masaki , Nishina Hidetaka , Asami Masahiko , Watanabe Yusuke , Yamamoto Masanori , Otsuka Toshiaki , Hayashida Kentaro ,   the OCEAN‐TAVI investigators
Published: August 2024

Aims

Mitral stenosis (MS) occasionally coexists with aortic stenosis (AS). Limited data are available regarding the functional class and clinical outcomes of patients who undergo transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) for combined AS and MS. This study compared the clinical outcomes in patients with and without MS who underwent TAVI for severe AS and assessed the impact of mitral annulus calcification (MAC) severity, transmitral gradient (TMG) and mitral valve area (MVA) on outcomes in patients with combined AS and MS.

Methods

We investigated patients in the OCEAN‐TAVI registry who underwent TAVI. MS was defined as an MVA ≤ 1.5 cm2 or TMG ≥ 5 mmHg. The composite of all‐cause death and admission for heart failure was compared between patients with and without MS. The impact of MAC, TMG and MVA on outcomes was assessed in patients with combined AS and MS.

Results

We identified 106 patients with MS (MAC 84%; TMG 6.4 ± 2.6 mmHg; MVA 1.10 ± 0.31 cm2) and 6570 without MS as controls. The MS group was older (85 ± 5 vs. 84 ± 5 years, P = 0.033), more of women (85 vs. 67%, P < 0.01), and had a higher risk of surgery (the Society of Thoracic Surgeons Mortality Score 8.7 ± 5.1 vs. 7.6 ± 5.9, P = 0.047) than the controls. In the MS group, the New York Heart Association Functional Class was 3 or 4 in 56% of the patients at baseline and 6% at 1 year after TAVI. Thirty‐day mortality (2.8% vs. 1.3%, P = 0.18) and early composite outcomes (17% vs. 15%, P = 0.56) were comparable between patients with and without MS. During a median follow‐up of 2.1 years, the presence of MS was associated with a higher incidence of adverse events compared with controls (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.84; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.34–2.51, P < 0.01), even on propensity score matched analysis (adjusted HR 1.91; 95% CI 1.14–3.22, P < 0.01). Moderate or severe MAC contributed to increased risk of adverse events in patients with MS (adjusted HR 2.89; 95% CI 1.20–6.99, P = 0.018), but TMG and MVA did not.

Conclusions

In patients undergoing TAVI for severe AS, those with moderate or severe MS experienced worse outcomes after TAVI compared with those without MS. Patients with combined AS and MS sustained symptom improvement at 1‐year post‐TAVI. MAC severity was a useful predictor of adverse events compared with MS haemodynamics such as TMG and MVA in patients with combined AS and MS.
Intramolecular Photochemical C−H Insertions of α‐Diazocarbonyl Compounds
Authors: O'Callaghan Katie S. , Collins Stuart G. , Maguire Anita R.
Published: August 2024

Intramolecular photochemical C−H insertion reactions of α‐diazocarbonyl compounds are powerful synthetic transformations leading to carbon‐carbon bond formation. While there are limitations in the scope of C−H bonds amenable to C−H insertion under photochemical conditions relative to metal catalysed C−H insertions, the benefits of conducting these synthetically powerful transformations in a metal‐free approach offers “green” advantages. Recent advances in technology have revolutionised the potential for use of photochemical transformations in synthesis, including the wavelength control enabled by LEDs and the benefits associated with continuous flow processing which overcome many of the traditional challenges associated with synthetic photochemistry including scale‐up. The potential for telescoping the synthesis of α‐diazocarbonyl compounds and downstream photochemical reactions is clear. This review summarises the development of intramolecular photochemical C−H insertions and highlights the benefits of recent technological advances.
Toward Multi‐Functionalized Organogermaniums: Diastereoselective Transformations of Germacycles Derived from Cheletropic Reactions of Boron‐Substituted Butadienes with Ge(II) Salts
Authors: Nojima Taishi , Izumi Yugo , Konishi Akihito , Yasuda Makoto
Published: August 2024

The field of organogermanium in chemistry has recently attracted attention. Thanks to the inherent features of germanium (Ge), introducing Ge‐based substituents into organic frameworks has enhanced bioactivity and optoelectronic properties of molecules. Herein, the synthesis of multi‐functionalized organogermaniums using Ge(II) salts is reported. The germacycles having an allylboron moiety, which is derived from the (4+1) cycloadditions of the butadienes bearing a boronic ester moiety with Ge(II) salts, can be applied to further allylboration of aldehydes with perfect diastereoselectivity. The obtained allylated adducts enable access to π‐extended organogermaniums with the retention of the stereocenters.
Evaluation of operational parameters for vessel's flexible subsea pipelines
Authors: Malakhov O. V. , Kiris O. V. , Bondarenko A. V. , Kozyryev I. P. , Palagin O. M. , Naydyonov A. I.
Published: August 2024

The operation of offshore vessels is directly related to the use of flexible pipelines. The article describes in detail the analysis of power, geometric, kinematic and technological parameters that affect the main operational characteristics of these pipes during their operation under water, in rough sea conditions and under wind loads. The article describes the degree of dependence between loads on the pipeline and velocity of the oncoming flow, the geometry of the pipe and the distance to the rigid surface of the ship's hull or the seabed. It was determined how the flow velocity during parametric oscillations of the pipeline in unrestricted flow and near the surface of the seabed affects the change in its drag and lift coefficients. An estimate of operational limits of flexible pipeline instability was obtained. On the base of changes in distributed load, specific values for safe lengths of pipelines were formulated. It has been stated that the probability of failure‐free operation of a flexible pipeline at a level of 0.99 is directly determined by the frequency of its oscillation. Its numerical values should always be at a level that does not exceed 3.7% of the frequency of pipe dynamic oscillations.
Renewable Ammonia for Global Energy Transition
Authors: Kruth Angela , Käding Stefan , Wartmann Jens
Published: August 2024

As the global energy transition takes shape, ammonia has emerged as an up‐and‐coming zero‐carbon solution for the global hydrogen economy. This article highlights the favorable properties of ammonia that makes it a reliable and economic work horse ‐ overcoming many technological hurdles that still exist for hydrogen. The future role of ammonia as renewable fuel for shipping, heavy‐duty land‐based transport, power generation, and status of technology is highlighted. Finally, market projections and cost competitiveness are discussed for ammonia as an export vector for global hydrogen.
Luteolin ameliorates hyperuricemic nephropathy by activating urate excretion and Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 antioxidant pathways in mice
Authors: Yu Huifan , Huang Linsheng , Gui Lili , Wu Zhengkun , Luo Han , Xu Mao , Zhang Yan , Qian Yongshuai , Cao Wenjie , Liu Li , Li Fei
Published: August 2024

Luteolin is a natural flavonoid, which exists in many plants, including onions, broccoli, carrots, peppers, celery, olive oil, and mint. Luteolin is a dietary flavonoid with potent uric acid‐lowering and antioxidant bioactivities. To date, the mechanism by which luteolin alleviates hyperuricemia nephropathy (HN) still needs to be better defined. This study aims to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of luteolin in a preclinical mouse model and in vitro. Luteolin was administered in the HN mice induced by the combination of potassium oxonate and hypoxanthine to evaluate the potential renoprotective effects in vivo. The NRK‐52E cells were stimulated with adenosine for in vitro evaluation. Hematoxylin and eosin staining, biochemical analysis, immunoblotting, immunofluorescence, and immunohistochemistry were performed for the histopathologic and mechanistic investigations. The results suggest that luteolin attenuated tubular dilation and epithelial atrophy in the renal tissue of HN mice. Further, luteolin improved biochemical indicators concerning renal functions and oxidative stress in vivo. Mechanistically, luteolin reduced the renal expressions of KIM‐1 and caspase‐3. Luteolin activated renal SIRT1/6 cascade and its downstream Nrf2‐mediated antioxidant pathway. Furthermore, luteolin elevated the renal expressions of ATP‐binding cassette subfamily G isoform 2 protein (ABCG2) and organic anion/cation transporters. In addition, livers of luteolin‐treated HN mice exhibited robust inhibition of xanthine oxidase. Together, our study shows that luteolin alleviates renal injury in the HN mice by activating urate excretion and Nrf2/HO‐1/NQO1 antioxidant pathways and inhibiting liver xanthine oxidase activity. Thus, luteolin may be a potential agent for the treatment of HN.
Endothelin‐1 increases Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter‐1 expression in cultured astrocytes and in traumatic brain injury model: An involvement of HIF1α activation
Authors: Koyama Yutaka , Hamada Yasuhiro , Fukui Yura , Hosogi Nami , Fujimoto Rina , Hishinuma Shigeru , Ogawa Yasuhiro , Takahashi Kenta , Izumi Yasuhiko , Michinaga Shotaro
Published: August 2024

Na+‐K+‐2Cl− cotransporter‐1 (NKCC1) is present in brain cells, including astrocytes. The expression of astrocytic NKCC1 increases in the acute phase of traumatic brain injury (TBI), which induces brain edema. Endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) is a factor that induces brain edema and regulates the expression of several pathology‐related genes in astrocytes. In the present study, we investigated the effect of ET‐1 on NKCC1 expression in astrocytes. ET‐1 (100 nM)‐treated cultured astrocytes showed increased NKCC1 mRNA and protein levels. The effect of ET‐1 on NKCC1 expression in cultured astrocytes was reduced by BQ788 (1 μM), an ETB antagonist, but not by FR139317 (1 μM), an ETA antagonist. The involvement of ET‐1 in NKCC1 expression in TBI was examined using a fluid percussion injury (FPI) mouse model that replicates the pathology of TBI with high reproducibility. Administration of BQ788 (15 nmol/day) decreased FPI‐induced expressions of NKCC1 mRNA and protein, accompanied with a reduction of astrocytic activation. FPI‐induced brain edema was attenuated by BQ788 and NKCC1 inhibitors (azosemide and bumetanide). ET‐1‐treated cultured astrocytes showed increased mRNA and protein expression of hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF1α). Immunohistochemical observations of mouse cerebrum after FPI showed co‐localization of HIF1α with GFAP‐positive astrocytes. Increased HIF1α expression in the TBI model was reversed by BQ788. FM19G11 (an HIF inhibitor, 1 μM) and HIF1α siRNA suppressed ET‐induced increase in NKCC1 expression in cultured astrocytes. These results indicate that ET‐1 increases NKCC1 expression in astrocytes through the activation of HIF1α.
Management of bilateral head and neck paragangliomas at a single‐institution across four decades
Authors: Bellamkonda Nikhil , Tooker Evan L. , Naumer Anne , Buchmann Luke O. , Kohlmann Wendy , McCrary Hilary C. , Patel Neil S. , Espahbodi Mana
Published: August 2024

Background

Bilateral head and neck paragangliomas (HNPGLs) require nuanced management to balance tumor control with functional preservation.

Methods

All patients seen at a single‐institution for bilateral paraganglioma between 1983 and 2023 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographics, genetic testing results, and tumor characteristics were analyzed and compared to treatment modality and cranial nerve outcomes.

Results

There were 49 patients with 116 tumors (90 carotid body tumors [CBTs], 15 vagal paragangliomas [VPs], and 11 jugular paragangliomas [JPs]). Twenty‐six patients had SDH pathologic variants (PV). Surgical management was more commonly utilized in younger patients (OR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.950–0.992) and for JPs (OR: 9, 95% CI: 1.386–58.443). In surgical cases, CBTs had a lower risk of postoperative cranial nerve deficits compared to JPs and VPs (OR: 0.095, 95% CI: 0.013–0.692).

Conclusions

Younger patients with bilateral HNPGLs, especially those with JP and CBT, are more often treated with surgery. CBTs have lowest risk of cranial nerve deficits after surgery.
Heat transfer analysis of solar distillation system by incorporating nano‐enhanced PCM as thermal energy‐storage system
Authors: Singh Varun Kumar , Kumar Devesh
Published: August 2024

The technology of solar still shows up as an effective and affordable solution to convert available brackish water into potable water. The present study aims to address the challenge of providing freshwater by desalinating brackish water using solar energy. An attempt has been made in this work to make a desalination system for the efficient utilization of solar energy by using a parabolic reflector and energy‐storage material. Modification in the desalination system and storage of energy facilitates the continuation of the process in sunshine and off‐sunshine hours which increases yield output. To investigate the objectives, helical‐shaped focal tubes and nano‐enhanced phase change material (PCM) are prepared. The desalination system is coupled with nano‐enhanced PCM by placing it in the annular space of a helical‐shaped focal tube. The heat transfer coefficient ranged from 11.46 to 28.77 W/(m² K). PCM 3 (i.e., base PCMs with 1.5% nanoadditives) achieved a maximum productivity of 3533.3 mL/m²/day, marking a 97.89% improvement over the system without PCM. The preheated water outlet temperature reached 67.4°C, and the basin water temperature was 75.35°C. The highest concentrator efficiency recorded was 49.82% at a mass flow rate of 0.0053 kg/s. Thermodynamic analysis showed a 67.19% enhancement in overall thermal efficiency with PCM 3 compared with the non‐PCM scenario. Additionally, the system attained a maximum average exergy efficiency of 12.29% and the shortest payback period of 115 days. The study concludes that the base PCM sample with a 1.5% mass concentration of nanoparticles was optimal.
Belimumab in early systemic lupus erythematosus: A propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Lu Chaofan , He Nan , Dou Lei , Yu Hongxia , Li Mengtao , Leng Xiaomei , Zeng Xiaofeng
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy of belimumab in patients with early systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), defined as having a disease duration of less than 6 months.

Methods

We retrospectively identified patients with SLE in the early stage who received belimumab and standard of care (belimumab group) or standard of care alone (control group) since September 2020. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to reduce potential bias. The primary endpoint was lupus low disease activity status (LLDAS) at weeks 12 and 24. The secondary endpoints were remission and the proportion of glucocorticoid dose tapering to 7.5 mg/day. The efficacy of belimumab in patients with lupus nephritis was also assessed.

Results

Out of 111 eligible patients, 16 patients in the belimumab group and 31 patients in the control group were identified by 1:2 PSM. At week 24, a significantly higher proportion of individuals achieved low disease activity state (LLDAS) in the belimumab group compared to the control group (56.3% vs. 19.4%, OR = 5.357, 95% CI = 1.417 to 20.260, p = 0.013). Furthermore, more patients in the belimumab group were reduced to low‐dose glucocorticoid ( ≤ 7.5 mg/day) at week 24 (75.0% vs. 35.5%, OR = 5.182, 95%CI = 1.339 to 20.058, p = 0.017). Significant improvements in Patient Global Assessment scores were observed at Week 12 and 24 for those treated with belimumab compared to controls. In a subgroup analysis evaluating the efficacy of belimumab in patients with lupus nephritis, 42.9% of the seven individuals treated with belimumab achieved a complete renal response (CRR) by Week 24, and no instances of disease relapse were observed.

Conclusions

In SLE patients with a disease duration of less than 6 months, belimumab treatment can promote LLDAS achievement and reduce glucocorticoid dose, leading to a better prognosis. Introducing belimumab in the early stage of SLE may be a beneficial decision.
Evaluation of the protective effect of Curcuma longa and PPARγ agonist, pioglitazone on paraquat‐induced lung injury in rats
Authors: Eshaghi Ghalibaf Mohammad Hossein , Taghavi zadeh Yazdi Mohammad Ehsan , Mansourian Mona , Mohammadian Roshan Nema , Boskabady Mohammad Hossein
Published: August 2024

Background

The inhalation of paraquat (PQ), one of the most widely used herbicides in the world, can result in lung injury. Curcuma longa (Cl) has long history in traditional and folk medicine for the treatment of a wide range of disorders including respiratory diseases.

Aim

The aim of the present work was to evaluate the preventive effect of Cl on inhaled PQ‐induced lung injury in rats.

Methods

Male Wistar rats were divided into 8 groups (n = 7), one group exposed to saline (control) and other groups exposed to PQ aerosol. Saline (PQ), Cl extract, (two doses), curcumin (Cu), pioglitazone (Pio), and the combination of Cl‐L + Pio and dexamethasone (Dex) were administered during the exposure period to PQ. Total and differential white blood cell (WBC) counts, oxidant and antioxidant indicators in the bronchoalveolar lavage (BALF), interleukin (IL)‐10, and tumor necrosis alpha (TNF‐α) levels in the lung tissues, lung histologic lesions score, and air way responsiveness to methacholine were evaluated.

Results

WBC counts (Total and differential), malondialdehyde level, tracheal responsiveness (TR), IL‐10, TNF‐α and histopathological changes of the lung were markedly elevated but total thiol content and the activities of catalase and superoxide dismutase were decreased in the BALF in the PQ group. Both doses of Cl, Cu, Pio, Cl‐L + Pio, and Dex markedly improved all measured variables in comparison with the PQ group.

Conclusion

CI, Pio, and Cl‐L + Pio improved PQ‐induced lung inflammation and oxidative damage comparable with the effects of Dex.
Got Phenomena? Science‐Based Disciplines for Emerging Systems Challenges
Authors: Schindel Bill
Published: August 2024

Engineering disciplines (civil, mechanical, chemical, electrical) sometimes argue their fields have “real physical phenomena”, “hard science” based laws, and first principles, claiming systems engineering lacks equivalent phenomenological foundation. We argue the opposite, and how replanting systems engineering in model‐based systems engineering (MBSE) / pattern‐based systems engineering (PBSE) supports emergence of new hard sciences and phenomena‐based domain disciplines.

Supporting this perspective is the system phenomenon, wellspring of engineering opportunities and challenges. Governed by Hamilton's principle, it is a traditional path for derivation of equations of motion or physical laws of so‐called “fundamental” physical phenomena of mechanics, electromagnetics, chemistry, and thermodynamics.

We argue that laws and phenomena of traditional disciplines are less fundamental than the system phenomenon from which they spring. This is a practical reminder of emerging higher disciplines, with phenomena, first principles, and physical laws. Contemporary examples include ground vehicles, aircraft, marine vessels, and biochemical networks; ahead are health care, distribution networks, market systems, ecologies, and the IoT.