bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly‐Specific Single‐Stranded Oligonucleotides and Functional Nanoprobes for Clinical Determination of Chlamydia Trachomatis and Neisseria Gonorrhoeae Infections
Authors: Dighe Ketan , Moitra Parikshit , Gunaseelan Nivetha , Alafeef Maha , Jensen Tor , Rafferty Carla , Pan Dipanjan
Published: October 2023

Early detection of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) is the key to controlling the spread of these bacterial infections. An important step in developing biosensors involves identifying reliable sensing probes against specific genetic targets for CT and NG. Here, the authors have designed single‐stranded oligonucleotides (ssDNAs) targeting mutually conserved genetic regions of cryptic plasmid and chromosomal DNA of both CT and NG. The 5′‐ and 3′‐ ends of these ssDNAs are differentially functionalized with thiol groups and coupled with gold nanoparticles (AuNP) to develop absorbance‐based assay. The AuNPs agglomerate selectively in the presence of its target DNA sequence and demonstrate a change in their surface plasmon resonance. The optimized assay is then used to detect both CT and NG DNA extracted from 60 anonymized clinical samples with a clinical sensitivity of ∼100%. The limit of detection of the assays are found to be 7 and 5 copies/µL for CT and NG respectively. Furthermore, it can successfully detect the DNA levels of these two bacteria without the need for DNA extraction and via a lateral flow‐based platform. These assays thus hold the potential to be employed in clinics for rapid and efficient monitoring of sexually transmitted infections.
Triply Enhanced Immunotherapy via Dual Glycan Reforming Integrated with Perforation
Authors: Yang Yuanjiao , Wang Yuru , Chao Zhicong , Yang Yuhui , Fang Yanyun , Liu Ying , Ding Lin , Chen Yunlong , Ju Huangxian
Published: October 2023

The enhancement of immunotherapy is an emerging direction to develop highly effective and practical cancer therapeutic methods. Here a triply enhanced immunotherapy drug (TEID) is designed for ingeniously integrating in situ dual glycan reforming with perforation on cell membrane. The TEID is composed of galactose and neuraminidase conjugated streptolysin O (SLO‐Gal and SLO‐NEU), which are encapsulated in a hyaluronic acid (HA) shell for targeted recognition to tumor tissue via cell surface CD44. After targeted delivery and HAase‐mediated degradation in the tumor region, the TEID releases SLO‐Gal and SLO‐NEU, which can easily anchor Gal and NEU on the tumor cell membrane via the perforation of SLO to perform dual glycan reforming for the introduction of Gal and the cleavage of sialic acid. The former can activate immune cells to secret cytokines for immune‐killing, and the latter can weaken the immune inhibition to improve the immunotherapeutic efficacy. Meanwhile, the perforation of SLO can promote the delivery of cytokines into the tumor cells to further enhance the efficacy. The designed triply enhanced immunotherapy strategy opens a significant and promising route to promote clinical immunotherapy of cancer.
Shape‐Anisotropic Assembly of Protein Nanocages with Identical Building Blocks by Designed Intermolecular π–π Interactions
Authors: Chen Xuemin , Zhang Tuo , Liu Hanxiong , Zang Jiachen , Lv Chenyan , Du Ming , Zhao Guanghua
Published: October 2023

Protein lattices that shift the structure and shape anisotropy in response to environmental cues are closely coupled to potential functionality. However, to design and construct shape‐anisotropic protein arrays from the same building blocks in response to different external stimuli remains challenging. Here, by a combination of the multiple, symmetric interaction sites on the outer surface of protein nanocages and the tunable features of phenylalanine‐phenylalanine interactions, a protein engineering approach is reported to construct a variety of superstructures with shape anisotropy, including 3D cubic, 2D hexagonal layered, and 1D rod‐like crystalline protein nanocage arrays by using one single protein building block. Notably, the assembly of these crystalline protein arrays is reversible, which can be tuned by external stimuli (pH and ionic strength). The anisotropic morphologies of the fabricated macroscopic crystals can be correlated with the Å‐to‐nm scale protein arrangement details by crystallographic elucidation. These results enhance the understanding of the freedom offered by an object's symmetry and inter‐object π−π stacking interactions for protein building blocks to assemble into direction‐ and shape‐anisotropic biomaterials.
Maternal High Fat Diet in Lactation Impacts Hypothalamic Neurogenesis and Neurotrophic Development, Leading to Later Life Susceptibility to Obesity in Male but Not Female Mice
Authors: Xu Yanchao , Yang Dengbao , Wang Lu , Król Elżbieta , Mazidi Mohsen , Li Li , Huang Yi , Niu Chaoqun , Liu Xue , Lam Sin Man , Shui Guanghou , Douglas Alex , Speakman John R.
Published: October 2023

Early life nutrition can reprogram development and exert long‐term consequences on body weight regulation. In mice, maternal high‐fat diet (HFD) during lactation predisposed male but not female offspring to diet‐induced obesity when adult. Molecular and cellular changes in the hypothalamus at important time points are examined in the early postnatal life in relation to maternal diet and demonstrated sex‐differential hypothalamic reprogramming. Maternal HFD in lactation decreased the neurotropic development of neurons formed at the embryo stage (e12.5) and impaired early postnatal neurogenesis in the hypothalamic regions of both males and females. Males show a larger increased ratio of Neuropeptide Y (NPY) to Pro‐opiomelanocortin (POMC) neurons in early postnatal neurogenesis, in response to maternal HFD, setting an obese tone for male offspring. These data provide insights into the mechanisms by which hypothalamic reprograming by early life overnutrition contributes to the sex‐dependent susceptibility to obesity in adult life in mice.
Additive Manufacturing of Transparent Multi‐Component Nanoporous Glasses
Authors: Li Beining , Li Zhenjiang , Cooperstein Ido , Shan Wenze , Wang Shuaipeng , Jiang Benxue , Zhang Long , Magdassi Shlomo , He Jin
Published: October 2023

Fabrication of glass with complex geocd the low resolution of particle‐based or fused glass technologies. Herein, a high‐resolution 3D printing of transparent nanoporous glass is presented, by the combination of transparent photo‐curable sol–gel printing compositions and digital light processing (DLP) technology. Multi‐component glass, including binary (Al2O3‐SiO2), ternary (ZnO‐Al2O3‐SiO2, TiO2‐Al2O3‐SiO2), and quaternary oxide (CaO‐P2O5‐Al2O3‐SiO2) nanoporous glass objects with complex shapes, high spatial resolutions, and multi‐oxide chemical compositions are fabricated, by DLP printing and subsequent sintering process. The uniform nanopores of Al2O3‐SiO2‐based nanoporous glasses with the diameter (≈6.04 nm), which is much smaller than the visible light wavelength, result in high transmittance (>95%) at the visible range. The high surface area of printed glass objectives allows post‐functionalization via the adsorption of functional guest molecules. The photoluminescence and hydrophobic modification of 3D printed glass objectives are successfully demonstrated. This work extends the scope of 3D printing to transparent nanoporous glasses with complex geometry and facile functionalization, making them available for a wide range of applications.
Adaptive Multi‐Site Gradient Adsorption of Siloxane‐Based Protective Layers Enable High Performance Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Fang Shan , Wu Fanglin , Zhao Shangquan , Zarrabeitia Maider , Kim Guk‐Tae , Kim Jae‐Kwang , Zhou Naigen , Passerini Stefano
Published: October 2023

Low Coulombic efficiency and significant capacity decay resulting from an unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and dendritic growth pose challenges to the practical application of lithium‐metal batteries. In this study, a highly efficient protection layer induced by octaphenylsilsesquioxane (OPS) with LiFSI salt is investigated. The OPS exhibits a strong adsorption energy with lithium, its multi‐site gradient adsorption ability enables the simultaneous capture of 8 Li+ and the uniform regulation of Li ion flux. Moreover, the mechanical strength and electronic insulation of the OPS layer induces Li deposition under the protection layer and effectively inhibits lithium dendrite growth. Such a protection layer contributes to the stable and dendrite‐free performance of a lithium‐metal battery employing LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) as a cathode and an ultrathin OPS‐protected lithium foil (20 µm) as the anode. A remarkable capacity retention of 91.4% is achieved after 300 cycles at 1C. The OPS‐protected Li anodes and NCM811 are also tested in combination with a Li1.5Al0.5Ge1.5(PO4)3 solid electrolyte, showing extended cyclability up to 300 cycles with an average Coulombic efficiency of 99.58% and capacity retention of 85.7%.
Present role of intraoperative enteroscopy in small bowel bleeding: A tertiary center experience
Authors: Huang Shu‐Wei , Lin Zong‐Wei , Chen Tsung‐Hsing , Chiu Cheng‐Tang , Huang Hsin‐Chih , Su Ming‐Yao , Chen Yu‐Jhou , Cheng Hao‐Tsai
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to assess the diagnostic yield and outcomes of intraoperative enteroscopy (IOE) in patients with overt small bowel bleeding in the era of balloon‐assisted enteroscopy and capsule endoscopy. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with small bowel bleeding who underwent IOE from January 2005 to April 2016 in a tertiary medical center. A total of 18 patients with overt small bowel bleeding who underwent a total 18 IOE procedures were included. The mean amount of blood transfusion was 35.7 units (SD, 21.4 units), and 11 patients had hypovolemic shock. The diagnostic yield of the IOE procedures was 94.4% (17/18). The most common pathologic diagnosis was ulcer. The rebleeding rate was 44.4% (8/18), and the overall survival rate was 61.1% (11/18). IOE remains a valuable tool for diagnosing overt small bowel bleeding. The usage of IOE might potentially be limited due to critical clinical conditions in the era of deep enteroscopy. A specific caution should be taken in performing IOE due to the high morbidity of the procedure.
Autoencoding a Soft Touch to Learn Grasping from On‐Land to Underwater
Authors: Guo Ning , Han Xudong , Liu Xiaobo , Zhong Shuqiao , Zhou Zhiyuan , Lin Jian , Dai Jiansheng , Wan Fang , Song Chaoyang
Published: October 2023

Robots play a critical role as the physical agent of human operators in exploring the ocean. However, it remains challenging to grasp objects reliably while fully submerging under a highly pressurized aquatic environment with little visible light, mainly due to the fluidic interference on the tactile mechanics between the finger and object surfaces. This study investigates the transferability of grasping knowledge from on‐land to underwater via a vision‐based soft robotic finger that learns 6D forces and torques (FT) using a supervised variational autoencoder (SVAE). A high‐framerate camera captures the whole‐body deformations while a soft robotic finger interacts with physical objects on‐land and underwater. Results show that the trained SVAE model learns a series of latent representations of the soft mechanics transferable from land to water, presenting a superior adaptation to the changing environments against commercial FT sensors. Soft, delicate, and reactive grasping enabled by tactile intelligence enhances the gripper's underwater interaction with improved reliability and robustness at a much‐reduced cost, paving the path for learning‐based intelligent grasping to support fundamental scientific discoveries in environmental and ocean research.
Kinetic Delay in Cooperative Supramolecular Polymerization by Redefining the Trade‐Off Relationship between H‐Bonds and Van der Waals/π–π Stacking Interactions
Authors: Gallonde William T. , Poidevin Corentin , Houard Felix , Caytan Elsa , Dorcet Vincent , Fihey Arnaud , Bernot Kevin , Rigaut Stéphane , Galangau Olivier
Published: October 2023

We here present how rebalancing the interplay between H‐bonds and dispersive forces (Van der Waals/π–π stacking) may induce or not the generation of kinetic metastable states. In particular, we show that extending the aromatic content and favouring the interchain VdW interactions causes a delay into the cooperative supramolecular polymerization of a new family of toluene bis‐amide derivatives by trapping the metastable inactive state.
Cyclic Peptides for Drug Development
Authors: Ji Xinjian , Nielsen Alexander L. , Heinis Christian
Published: October 2023

Cyclic peptides are fascinating molecules abundantly found in nature and exploited as molecular format for drug development as well as other applications, ranging from research tools to food additives. Advances in peptide technologies made over many years through improved methods for synthesis and drug development have resulted in a steady stream of new drugs, with an average of around one cyclic peptide drug approved per year. Powerful technologies for screening random peptide libraries, and de novo generating ligands, have enabled the development of cyclic peptide drugs independent of naturally derived molecules and now offer virtually unlimited development opportunities. In this review, we feature therapeutically relevant cyclic peptides derived from nature and discuss the unique properties of cyclic peptides, the enormous technological advances in peptide ligand development in recent years, and current challenges and opportunities for developing cyclic peptides that address unmet medical needs.
Nucleic Acid‐based Enzyme Cascades—Current Trends and Future Perspectives
Authors: Kröll Sandra , Niemeyer Christof M.
Published: October 2023

The natural micro‐ and nanoscale organization of biomacromolecules is a remarkable principle within living cells, allowing for the control of cellular functions by compartmentalization, dimensional diffusion and substrate channeling. In order to explore these biological mechanisms and harness their potential for applications such as sensing and catalysis, molecular scaffolding has emerged as a promising approach. In the case of synthetic enzyme cascades, developments in DNA nanotechnology have produced particularly powerful scaffolds whose addressability can be programmed with nanometer precision. In this minireview, we summarize recent developments in the field of biomimetic multicatalytic cascade reactions organized on DNA nanostructures. We emphasize the impact of the underlying design principles like DNA origami, efficient strategies for enzyme immobilization, as well as the importance of experimental design parameters and theoretical modeling. We show how DNA nanostructures have enabled a better understanding of diffusion and compartmentalization effects at the nanometer length scale, and discuss the challenges and future potential for commercial applications.
Rheology, curing and time‐dependent behavior of epoxy/carbon nanoparticles systems
Authors: Bianchi Otávio , Cruz Joziel A. , Paim Lucas , Lavoratti Alessandra , Al‐Maqdasi Zainab , Amico Sandro C. , Fernberg Patrik , Joffe Roberts
Published: October 2023

This study delved into the characterization of epoxy nanocomposites containing diglycidyl ether of bisphenol‐A (DGBEA), graphene nanoplates (GN), and carbon nanotubes (CNT) across a range of weight percentages (0.05% to 2%). The nanocomposites were produced through a process involving mechanical stirring and ultrasonication. To assess compatibility, three‐dimensional solubility parameters (3DSP) were employed. CNT demonstrated superior compatibility with epoxy and triethylenetetramine (TETA), due to its higher amount of oxygenated species in nanoparticle surface compared to GN. A rheological percolation phenomenon occurred in CNT systems at concentrations above 0.2%, while GN did not display percolation even at 2% concentration. Incorporating nanoparticles led to increased curing enthalpy due to surface functional groups. As the percolation network formed, viscosity rose, and a reduced glass transition temperature (Tg) indicated restricted molecular mobility. Surprisingly, Tg consistently increased by approximately 27°C during composite annealing, regardless of nanoparticle type or concentration. This was attributed to forming a three‐dimensional network structure potentially originating from reactions between nanoparticle‐oxygenated groups and the epoxy matrix. This phenomenon was crucial in heightened creep and irreversible deformations, setting these nanocomposites apart from pure resin behavior.
Super porous α‐, β‐, γ‐cyclodextrin cryogels with high active agent loading and controllable release profiles
Authors: Yilmaz Aynur S. , Sahiner Nurettin
Published: October 2023

Cyclodextrins (CDs) are truncated cone‐like structures that are natural cyclic oligosaccharides. Here, a simple preparation method for super porous poly(α‐CD), poly(β‐CD), and poly(γ‐CD) cryogels crosslinking with divinyl sulfone at 150%, 100% and 125% mole ratios with respect to the α‐CD, β‐CD, and γ‐CD molecules, respectively, under cryogenic conditions, is reported. The interconnected homogeneous pore distribution of CD‐based cryogels with pore sizes in the range of 5–100 μm is confirmed by SEM analysis. The CD‐based cryogels weighing 10 mg are determined as hemocompatible with <1% hemolysis ratios and >79% blood clotting indexes; whereas the same materials weighing 1 mg are biocompatible with >75% cell viability on L929 fibroblasts. Additionally, active agent adsorption/delivery efficiencies of CD‐based cryogels utilizing two active agents, Bisphenol A (BPA, a carcinogenic compound) and Curcumin (CUR, a polyphenolic compound), are individually evaluated. It was revealed that p(γ‐CD) cryogels exhibited the highest active agent loading capacity for BPA, 87 ± 13 mg/g, whereas p(α‐CD) cryogels showed the highest loading capacity for CUR, 136 ± 4 mg/g. Moreover, the active agent release from p(α‐CD), p(β‐CD), and p(γ‐CD) cryogel networks at pH 7.4 and 37°C were determined as 40.6 ± 2, 35.3 ± 2, and 34 ± 1 mg/g for BPA, and 1.07 ± 0.2, 1.27 ± 0.1, and 1.37 ± 0.1 mg/g for CUR, respectively, within 96 h.
Vinylhydridosilsesquioxne: Synthesis and characterization of a potential filler material for vinyl‐containing polysiloxanes
Authors: Yesudas Saino , Sreejith K. J. , Vijay V. Vipin
Published: October 2023

This paper reports the synthesis and characterization of an organic silsesquioxane (SQ) containing Sivinyl and SiH groups named as vinylhydridosilsesquioxane (SQVH‐12). Detailed investigation of the structure of this organosilsesquioxane revealed that SQVH‐12 has a highly cross‐linked (polycyclic) SiO network of silsesquioxane with Sivinyl and SiH functional groups. Thermogravimetric analysis of the pyrolysis behavior of SQVH‐12 yielded a high percentage of ceramic residue (~92%) at 1200°C under an argon atmosphere. The presence of functional groups in SQVH‐12 and the high rate of ceramic residue highlights the potential usefulness of SQVH‐12 as a filler for vinyl‐containing polysiloxanes. Thus, further research of SQVH‐12 can find applications in a wide variety of areas such as additive manufacturing, protective coatings, and advanced composites.
Purification and characterization of thioredoxin reductase enzyme from commercial Spirulina platensis tablets by affinity chromatography and investigation of the effects of some chemicals and drugs on enzyme activity
Authors: Dagsuyu Eda , Yanardag Refiye
Published: October 2023

Thioredoxin reductase (TrxR, enzyme code [E.C.] 1.6.4.5) is a widely distributed flavoenzyme that catalyzes nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH)‐dependent reduction of thioredoxin and many other physiologically important substrates. Spirulina platensis is a blue–green algae that is often used as a dietary supplement. S. platensis is rich in protein, lipid, polysaccharide, pigment, carotenoid, enzyme, vitamins and many other chemicals and exhibits a variety of pharmacological functions. In the present study, a simple and efficient method to purify TrxR from S. platensis tablets is reported. The extractions were carried out using two different methods: heat denaturation and 2′,5′‐adenosine diphosphate Sepharose 4B affinity chromatography. The enzyme was purified by 415.04‐fold over the crude extract, with a 19% yield, and specific activity of 0.7640 U/mg protein. Optimum pH, temperature and ionic strength of the enzyme activity, as well as the Michaelis constant (Km) and maximum velocity of enzyme (Vmax) values for NADPH and 5,5′‐dithiobis(2‐nitrobenzoic acid) were determined. Tested metal ions, vitamins, and drugs showed inhibition effects, except Se4+ ion, cefazolin sodium, teicoplanin, and tobramycin that increased the enzyme activity in vitro. Ag+, Cu2+, Mg2+, Ni2+, Pb2+, Zn2+, Al3+, Cr3+, Fe3+, and V4+ ions; vitamin B3, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin U and aciclovir, azithromycin, benzyladenine, ceftriaxone sodium, clarithromycin, diclofenac, gibberellic acid, glurenorm, indole‐3‐butyric acid, ketorolac, metformin, mupirocin, mupirocin calcium, paracetamol, and tenofovir had inhibitory effects on TrxR. Ag+ exhibited stronger inhibition than 1‐chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene (a positive control).
UHPFRC‐Fertigteilsegmente für einen nachhaltigen und ressourcenschonenden Betonbrückenbau
Authors: Wilkening Marvin , Schack Tobias , Haist Michael , Oettel Vincent
Published: October 2023

Viele der gegenwärtig in Deutschland genutzten Betonbrücken weisen alters‐ bzw. bauartbedingt einen defizitären Zustand auf. Zudem tragen auch gestiegene Verkehrsbeanspruchungen dazu bei, dass viele der Brücken mittelfristig ersetzt werden müssen. Aufgrund der vielen Vorteile von Betonkonstruktionen ist davon auszugehen, dass auch in Zukunft Betonbrücken geplant und ausgeführt werden. Angesichts der zunehmenden Folgen des Klimawandels und der zwingenden Notwendigkeit, die CO2‐Emissionen auch im Bauwesen zu reduzieren, herrscht dringender Forschungsbedarf an klima‐ und ressourcenschonenden, nachhaltigen, aber auch wirtschaftlichen Betonbauweisen. Ein vielversprechender Ansatz, um schnell, effektiv und ressourcenoptimiert sowie CO2‐effizient zu bauen, ist der Einsatz von Hochleistungsmaterialien wie z. B. ultrahochfestem Faserbeton (UHPFRC) in Kombination mit der Fertigteilsegmentbauweise. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird ausgehend von einer monolithischen Hohlkastenbrücke aus normalfestem Beton mithilfe von numerischen Berechnungen untersucht, wie viel Material bei segmentierten Hohlkastenbrücken unter Variation der Betondruckfestigkeit (normal‐, hoch‐ und ultrahochfest) eingespart werden kann. Die auf dieser Grundlage anschließend durchgeführte Ökobilanzierung für die Lebenszyklusphasen A1–A3 zeigt, dass bei voller Ausnutzung des Materials der Einsatz von UHPFRC im Vergleich zu normal‐ und hochfesten Betonen zu sehr ressourcenschonenden und nachhaltigen Konstruktionen führt.
Cleaving Folded RNA with DNAzyme Agents
Authors: Nedorezova Daria D. , Dubovichenko Mikhail V. , Kalnin Arseniy J. , Nour Moustapha A. Y. , Eldeeb Ahmed A. , Ashmarova Anna I. , Kurbanov Gabdulla F. , Kolpashchikov Dmitry M.
Published: October 2023

Cleavage of biological mRNA by DNAzymes (Dz) has been proposed as a variation of oligonucleotide gene therapy (OGT). The design of Dz‐based OGT agents includes computational prediction of two RNA‐binding arms with low affinity (melting temperatures (Tm) close to the reaction temperature of 37 °C) to avoid product inhibition and maintain high specificity. However, RNA cleavage might be limited by the RNA binding step especially if the RNA is folded in secondary structures. This calls for the need for two high‐affinity RNA‐binding arms. In this study, we optimized 10–23 Dz‐based OGT agents for cleavage of three RNA targets with different folding energies under multiple turnover conditions in 2 mM Mg2+ at 37 °C. Unexpectedly, one optimized Dz had each RNA‐binding arm with a Tm ≥60 °C, without suffering from product inhibition or low selectivity. This phenomenon was explained by the folding of the RNA cleavage products into stable secondary structures. This result suggests that Dz with long (high affinity) RNA‐binding arms should not be excluded from the candidate pool for OGT agents. Rather, analysis of the cleavage products’ folding should be included in Dz selection algorithms. The Dz optimization workflow should include testing with folded rather than linear RNA substrates.
Two‐step hybrid modeling for variable selection and estimation: An application to quantitative structure activity relationship study
Authors: Oranye Henrietta Ebele , Ugwuowo Fidelis Ifeanyi , Arum Kingsley Chinedu
Published: October 2023

In this study, we developed a simple technique for effective parameter estimation and prediction of the quantitative structure activity relationship studies using a two‐step procedure. The first step is to choose the important molecular descriptors using the random forest regression, and the second step is to optimally predict the biological activity of the selected chemical compounds using the following estimators: ridge regression, jackknife ridge, Liu regression, jackknife Liu, Kibria–Lukman, and jackknife Kibria–Lukman. We conducted a simulation study and a real‐life analysis with a quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) data with 2540 descriptors after preprocessing. The optimal prediction is determined using the cross‐validation error. The estimator with minimum cross‐validation error is considered best. It is obvious that performing jackknife estimation after random forest selection is preferred.
Straightforward Synthesis of Pentagon‐Embedded Expanded [11]Helicenes for Radiative Cooling Property
Authors: Ji Bingliang , Qi Zewei , Ye Tongtong , Li Shuangxuan , Shi Yanwei , Cui Shuang , Xiao Jinchong
Published: October 2023

Two new pentagon‐embedded carbo[11]helicenes have been designed and synthesized in a three‐step process, which are the first example of carbo[11]helicenes through the post‐functionalization of twistacene. TD‐DFT analyses indicate that both of them possess high enantiomerization barriers of 42.29 kcal/mol and 40.76 kcal/mol, respectively. They emit strong red fluorescence and can be chemically oxidized into stable cationic radicals upon addition of AgSbF6 evidenced by the bathochromic‐shifted absorption spectra and the appearance of electronic paramagnetic resonance (EPR) signals. In addition, such helical derivatives can be chosen as radiative cooling materials in a glass model house, and the maxima of 5.4 °C for the former and 6.5 °C for the latter are found in the comparative tests, which might be caused by the NIR reflective response.
Selective Perchlorate Sensing Using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy with Self‐Assembled Monolayers of semiaza‐Bambusurils
Authors: Khurana Raman , Alami Fuad , Nijhuis Christian A. , Keinan Ehud , Huskens Jurriaan , Reany Ofer
Published: October 2023

In the last two decades, perchlorate salts have been identified as environmental pollutants and recognized as potential substances affecting human health. We describe self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) of novel semiaza‐bambus[6]urils (semiaza‐BUs) equipped with thioethers or disulfide (dithiolane) functionalities as surface‐anchoring groups on gold electrodes. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) with Fe(CN)63−/4− as a redox probe, together with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and ellipsometry, were employed to characterize the interactions at the interface between the anchoring groups and the metal substrate. Data showed that the anion receptors′ packing on the gold strongly depends on the anchoring group. As a result, SAMs of BUs with lipoic amide side chains show a concentration‐dependent layer thickness. The BU SAMs are extremely stable on repeated electrochemical potential scans and can selectively recognize perchlorate anions. Our electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) studies indicated that semiaza‐BU equipped with the lipoic amide side chains binds perchlorate (2–100 mM) preferentially over other anions such as F−, Cl−, I−, AcO−, H2PO4−, HPO42−, SO42−, NO2−, NO3−, or CO32−. The resistance performance is 10 to 100 times more efficient than SAMs containing all other tested anions.
Supercapacitors vs. Lithium‐ion Batteries: Properties and Applications
Authors: Libich Jiri , Sedlaříková Marie , Máca Josef , Čudek Pavel , Kazda Tomas , Fafilek Guenter , Rodríguez Juan José Santana
Published: October 2023

Supercapacitors attract attention due to their superior values in the parameters like capacitance, discharge currents and cycle lifespan. Supercapacitors are designed and used in many applications where they partially or completely substitute conventional batteries. On the other side, supercapacitors are used in applications which are not so far suitable for these devices. To avoid wrong design and misuse of the supercapacitors it is necessary to correctly understand their properties, key advantages and disadvantages. Similar situation can be found in the field of lithium‐ion batteries.
Epitaxial Growth of Li2O2 Achieved by a Rational Designed Fe3O4@N‐doped Carbon Nanoflower Structure for Improving the Performance of Li−O2 Batteries
Authors: Ma Shiyu , Lou Anqi , Yao Kun , Geng Wenchao , Li Zhongjun , Liu Qingchao
Published: October 2023

The insulated and insoluble discharge product Li2O2 can cause excessive charge overpotential, eventually leading to the deactivation of the Li−O2 battery. Here, a nanoflower structure (Fe3O4@NC) fabricated by coating Fe3O4 with N‐doped carbon was used as an effective catalyst for Li−O2 cathode. The N‐doped defective carbon layer provides sufficient active sites for the formation of discharge intermediates and exhibits a coating effect on Fe3O4, thereby facilitating the maintenance of structural stability. The hierarchical structure of Fe3O4 can effectively mitigate the agglomeration of the carbon layer, thus promoting a homogeneous distribution and optimal utilization of active sites on the carbon layer. As a result, the synergistic effect of Fe3O4 combined with the N‐doped carbon layer enhances the Li+/e− transfer rate and effectively accelerates the kinetic of oxygen reduction/evolution reaction (ORR/OER). Furthermore, the unique functionality of Fe3O4@NC induces the epitaxial growth of Li2O2 into uniform nanosheets, thereby increasing the utilization of cathode space and ultimately promoting the energy release of Li−O2 batteries. The Li−O2 battery with Fe3O4@NC cathode exhibits remarkable full discharge capacity of 16495 mAh g−1 and significantly improved round‐trip performances for 120 cycles at a cutoff capacity of 1000 mAh g−1 with a current density of 200 mA g−1.
MAPK/ERK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways are activated in adolescent and adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Loureiro Gustavo , Bahia Daniella M. , Lee Maria Lucia M. , de Souza Mair Pedro , Kimura Eliza Y. S. , Rezende Denise Carvalho , Silva Marçal Cavalcante de Andrade , Chauffaille Maria de Lourdes L. F. , Yamamoto Mihoko
Published: October 2023

Background: The mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK)/ERK signaling cascade and the phosphoinosytol‐3 phosphate/Akt (PI3K/Akt) pathways are involved in proliferation and differentiation of hematopoietic cells. The frequency of PI3K/Akt and MAPK pathway activation in adult acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) still need to be elucidated.

Aims: To assess the activity and prognostic implications of MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt pathways in adult (ALL).

Methods

We examined 28 precursor‐B‐cell ALL and 6 T‐cell primary ALL samples. Flow cytometry was employed to analyze the expression levels of phosphorylated ERK and phosphorylated Akt.

Results

Ten out of 15 (67%) ALL fresh samples (7 B‐cell, 3 T‐cell) showed constitutive p‐ERK expression. The p‐ERK mean fluorescent index ratio (MFI (R)) showed a tendency to be higher in ALL than in normal T lymphocytes (1.26 [0.74–3.10] vs. 1.08 [1.02–1.21], respectively [p = .069]) and was significantly lower than in leukemic cell lines (median MFI (R) 3.83 [3.71–5.97] [p < .001]). Expression of p‐Akt was found in 35% (12/34) (10 B‐cell, 2 T‐cell). The median MFI (R) expression for p‐Akt in primary blast cell was 1.13 (0.48–9.90) compared to 1.01 (1.00–1.20) in normal T lymphocytes (p = ns) and lower than in leukemic cell lines (median MFI (R) 2.10 [1.77–3.40] [p = .037]). Moreover, expression of p‐ERK was negatively associated with the expression of CD34 (1.22 [0.74–1.33] vs. 1.52 [1.15–3.10] for CD34(+) and CD34(−) group, respectively, p = .009).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that both MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt are constitutively activated in adult ALL, indicating a targeted therapy potential for ALL by using inhibitors of these pathways.
Can good ESG performance reduce stock price crash risk? Evidence from Chinese listed companies
Authors: Luo Wenbing , Tian Ziyan , Fang Xusheng , Deng Mingjun
Published: October 2023

Against the backdrop of growing worldwide attention towards environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations, this study investigates how ESG performance affects the probability of stock price crashes. The research explores samples of Chinese A‐share listed companies during the period from 2010 to 2019. The outcomes indicate that commendable ESG performance lowers the likelihood of stock price crashes, and these results persist robust even after executing a series of robustness and endogeneity examinations. Moreover, the available evidence indicates that good ESG performance mitigates the risk of stock price crashes by curbing both earnings management and corporate risk. However, the positive influence of good ESG performance on reducing the risk of stock price crashes diminishes when analyst coverage increases. Furthermore, the heterogeneity analysis infers that the effect of good ESG performance in reducing stock price crash risk is more significant for non‐state companies. Heightened economic policy uncertainty weakens the effect of good corporate ESG performance in mitigating stock price crash risk. Of the three ESG performance dimensions—environmental, social, and corporate governance—the latter is the most effective in lessening such risks. This research carries notable implications for reinforcing the ESG disclosure arrangement in China and other developing economies. It also guides government institutions and regulators in the creation of policies that foster high‐calibre economic progress.
Impact of Temperature an Order of Magnitude Larger Than Electrical Potential in Lignin Electrolysis with Nickel
Authors: Carkner Andrew , Tageldin Ingy , Han Jiashuai , Seifitokaldani Ali , Kopyscinski Jan
Published: October 2023

Lignin, a major component of plant biomass, is a promising sustainable alternative carbon‐based feedstock to petroleum as a source of valuable aromatic compounds such as vanillin. However, lignin upgrading reactions are poorly understood due to its complex and variable molecular structure. This work focuses on electrocatalytic lignin upgrading, which is efficient and sustainable at moderate temperatures and pressures and does not require stoichiometric reagents. We used a meta‐analysis of published lignin conversion and product yield data to define the operating range, to select the catalyst, and then performed electrocatalytic experiments. We quantified the impact of temperature and electrical potential on the formation rate of valuable products (vanillic acid, acetovanillone, guaiacol, vanillin, and syringaldehyde). We found that increasing temperature increases their formation rate by an order of magnitude more than increasing electrical potential. For example, increasing temperature from 21 to 180 °C increases the vanillin formation rate by +16.5 mg⋅L−1⋅h−1 ±1.7 mg⋅L−1⋅h−1, while increasing electrical potential from 0 to 2 V increases the vanillin formation rate by −0.6 mg⋅L−1⋅h−1 ±1.4 mg⋅L−1⋅h−1.
Retinal microvasculature and incident dementia over 10 years: The Three‐City‐Alienor cohort
Authors: Rebouças Sara Cristina Lima , Cougnard‐Gregoire Audrey , Arnould Louis , Delyfer Marie‐Noëlle , Schweitzer Cédric , Korobelnik Jean‐François , Foubert‐Samier Alexandra , Cheung Carol Y. , Wong Tien Y. , Delcourt Cécile , Helmer Catherine
Published: October 2023

Introduction

We explored the longitudinal relationship between retinal vascular features and dementia incidence over 10 years.

Methods

Among 584 participants from the Three‐City‐Alienor (3C‐Alienor) population‐based cohort, quantitative retinal vascular features (caliber, tortuosity, fractal dimension) were measured using semi‐automated software. Dementia was actively diagnosed over the follow‐up period.

Results

One hundred twenty‐eight participants (21.9%) developed dementia over a median of 7.1 years. In Cox proportional hazards models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics, apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4, and vascular factors, increased retinal arteriolar tortuosity was associated with all‐cause dementia (hazard ratio per standard deviation increase, 1.21; 95% confidence interval: 1.02–1.44). Wider retinal calibers and a higher venular tortuosity were associated with mixed/vascular dementia, but not Alzheimer's disease. Fractal dimensions were not associated with dementia.

Discussion

Changes in the retinal microvasculature were associated with dementia risk. More studies are needed to replicate these findings and determine which features might help identify persons at risk at an early stage.

HIGHLIGHTS

The retinal microvasculature might reflect the brain microvasculature

We explored the association between retinal vascular features and incident dementia

584 participants from the Three‐City‐Alienor cohort were followed‐up over 10 years

Increased arteriolar tortuosity and venular calibers were associated with dementia risk

Retinal imaging might help identify persons at risk of future dementia
An experimental design for obtaining DNA of a target species and its diet from a single non‐invasive genetic protocol
Authors: Paul Shrutarshi , Shahar Naama , Seifan Merav , Bar‐David Shirli
Published: October 2023

Next‐generation sequencing technology has enabled accurate insights into the diet of wildlife species. The protocols for faecal sample collection and DNA extraction for diet analysis have differed from those focusing on target species, even in most studies combining questions on both aspects. We designed an experiment to evaluate two protocols using 11 parameters and select a single one that will generate both target species (Asiatic wild ass, Equus hemionus, in Israel) and diet DNA, as an effective strategy to minimise time, effort, and cost without hampering efficiency. In Protocol A, we swabbed the outer surface of faecal boluses and extracted DNA using a Stool Kit, while for Protocol B, we homogenised faecal matter from inside the bolus followed by extraction using a Powersoil Kit. Protocol A performed significantly better for four parameters, which included, for the target species, microsatellite amplification success and the quantity of the GAPDH gene; and for its diet, the number of exact sequence variants (ESVs) obtained at genus level and plant genus richness. However, there was no significant difference in the amplification success of sex‐linked and plant markers, total reads at genus level, number of genera obtained and plant genus composition. Although we chose Protocol A, both protocols yielded results for the target species and its diet, demonstrating that one single protocol can be used for both purposes, although a pilot study is recommended to optimise the protocol for specific systems. This strategy may also be useful for studies combining target species and their gut microbiome and parasitic load.
Customized targeted massively parallel sequencing enables the identification of novel pathogenic variants in Tunisian patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Ben Said Mariem , Jallouli Olfa , Ben Aissa Abir , Souissi Amal , Kamoun Fatma , Fakhfakh Faiza , Masmoudi Saber , Ben Ayed Ikhlas , Charfi Triki Chahnez
Published: October 2023

Objective

To develop a high‐throughput sequencing panel for the diagnosis of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy in Tunisia and to clarify the frequency of disease‐causing genes in this region.

Methods

We developed a custom panel for next‐generation sequencing of the coding sequences of 116 genes in individuals with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy from the Tunisian population. Segregation analyses and in silico studies have been conducted to assess the identified variants' pathogenicity.

Results

We report 12 pathogenic variants in SCN1A, CHD2, CDKL5, SZT2, KCNT1, GNAO1, PCDH19, MECP2, GRIN2A, and SYNGAP1 in patients with developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Five of these variants are novel: “c.149delA, p.(Asn50MetfsTer26)” in CDKL5; “c.3616C > T, p.(Arg1206Ter)” in SZT2; “c.111_113del, p.(Leu39del)” in GNAO1; “c.1435G>C, p.(Asp479His)” in PCDH19; and “c.2143delC, p.(Arg716GlyfsTer10)” in SYNGAP1. Additionally, for four of our patients, the genetic result facilitated the choice of the appropriate treatment.

Significance

This is the first report of a custom gene panel to identify genetic variants implicated in developmental and epileptic encephalopathy in the Tunisian population as well as the North African region (Tunisia, Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Morocco) with a diagnostic rate of 30%. This high‐throughput sequencing panel has considerably improved the rate of positive diagnosis of developmental and epileptic encephalopathy in the Tunisian population, which was less than 15% using Sanger sequencing. The benefit of genetic testing in these patients was approved by both physicians and parents.
Drosophila tweety facilitates autophagy to regulate mitochondrial homeostasis and bioenergetics in Glia
Authors: Leung Ho Hang , Mansour Christina , Rousseau Morgan , Nakhla Anwar , Kiselyov Kirill , Venkatachalam Kartik , Wong Ching‐On
Published: October 2023

Mitochondria support the energetic demands of the cells. Autophagic turnover of mitochondria serves as a critical pathway for mitochondrial homeostasis. It is unclear how bioenergetics and autophagy are functionally connected. Here, we identify an endolysosomal membrane protein that facilitates autophagy to regulate ATP production in glia. We determined that Drosophila tweety (tty) is highly expressed in glia and localized to endolysosomes. Diminished fusion between autophagosomes and endolysosomes in tty‐deficient glia was rescued by expressing the human Tweety Homolog 1 (TTYH1). Loss of tty in glia attenuated mitochondrial turnover, elevated mitochondrial oxidative stress, and impaired locomotor functions. The cellular and organismal defects were partially reversed by antioxidant treatment. We performed live‐cell imaging of genetically encoded metabolite sensors to determine the impact of tty and autophagy deficiencies on glial bioenergetics. We found that tty‐deficient glia exhibited reduced mitochondrial pyruvate consumption accompanied by a shift toward glycolysis for ATP production. Likewise, genetic inhibition of autophagy in glia resulted in a similar glycolytic shift in bioenergetics. Furthermore, the survival of mutant flies became more sensitive to starvation, underlining the significance of tty in the crosstalk between autophagy and bioenergetics. Together, our findings uncover the role for tty in mitochondrial homeostasis via facilitating autophagy, which determines bioenergetic balance in glia.
Salvage total laryngectomy for squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx and hypopharynx: Validated prognostic nomograms predicting oncological outcomes
Authors: Meulemans Jeroen , Van Boven Alexander , Debacker Jens , Laenen Annouschka , Delaere Pierre , Van Lierde Charlotte , Huvenne Wouter , Vander Poorten Vincent
Published: October 2023

Background

Salvage total laryngectomy (STL) is a preferred treatment for patients with residual, recurrent, and second primary squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx/hypopharynx after (chemo)radiation. To individually estimate postoperative oncological outcomes, we designed and validated prognostic nomograms.

Methods

We used a dataset of 290 patients who underwent STL. Nomograms predicting 2‐ and 5‐year OS, DFS, and DSS were developed, using variables which are identified pre‐ or postoperatively. The nomograms were externally validated on a dataset of 109 patients.

Results

The nomograms based on postoperative variables performed better than those based on preoperative variables (OS: C = 0.68 vs. 0.64; DFS: C = 0.70 vs. 0.64; DSS: C = 0.74 vs. 0.64). The nomogram predicting DSS based on postoperative variables performed best.

Conclusions

The presented prognostic nomograms for predicting oncological outcomes in patients who undergo STL are tools which allow for a reliable prognostic assessment.
Advance on fiber optic‐based biosensors for precision medicine: From diagnosis to therapy
Authors: Luo Zewei , Li Mingyue , Kong Xinyu , Li Yu , Li Wenwen , Tian Ze , Cao Qun , Zaman Muhammad Haider , Li Yongxin , Xiao Wei , Duan Yixiang
Published: October 2023

Precision medicine that takes individual variability into account is a new way to minimize the individual variability for precise diagnosis and to establish the certain strategies of efficient therapy. Due to miniaturization sensing area, remoting detection, and flexible operation of light, fiber optics have been successfully used to develop in vitro, wearable, and implanted biosensors, exhibiting high potential in precision medicine from the diagnosis in vitro to therapy in vivo. When modified with the recognition element, the fiber optic‐based biosensor enables the point of care testing for the detection of disease biomarkers. Meanwhile, the fiber optics packaged in a needle/catheter also monitor the medical Internet of things for the continuous assessment of human health. Moreover, the light from the cladding or leaky mode in the fiber optics excites the strong photothermal effect for therapy. The fiber optic‐based biosensor addressed the drawbacks of plasmonic photothermal therapy that limited penetration depths and non‐selectivity therapy. When integrated with a photothermal agent, the fiber optic‐based biosensors provide in situ information for the diagnosis as well as specifically and efficiently kill the tumor cells in deep tissues. In this review, we summarized the advances of fiber optic‐based biosensors in the diagnosis in vitro and therapy in vivo. The challenges and prospection of the fiber optic‐based biosensor application in precision medicine were also explored in depth.
Treatment of Essential Hypertension in Asians: Enalapril as Monotherapy versus Combination Therapy with Hydrochlorothiazide
Authors: Jones Daniel W. , Sands Charles D.
Published: October 2023

This study compared enalapril maleate (Enaprin) as a single antihypertensive agent and enalapril plus hydrochlorothiazide in Korean patients to determine if one regimen is superior to the other in terms of efficacy and subjective adverse effects. After a 1‐week washout period, 12 patients were randomized to receive enalapril 10 mg daily and 13 patients to receive enalapril 10 mg daily plus hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg daily. After 2 weeks, enalapril was increased to 20 mg daily if diastolic blood pressure was greater than 90 mm Hg. The study period was 12 weeks. The mean changes in diastolic blood pressure in mm Hg were enalapril alone −10.7 ± 10.5 mm Hg and enalapril plus hydrochlorothiazide −25.1 ± 12.1 mm Hg (difference between the two groups significant at p < 0.01). Mean dose of enalapril required to achieve goal blood pressure was 18.8 mg for monotherapy and 13.0 mg for combination therapy (p < 0.05). Adverse effects were comparable. We concluded that enalapril in combination with hydrochlorothiazide is more effective and safe, and allows for lower dosing of enalapril than the drug as monotherapy in Korean hypertensives.