bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CXCL16/CXCR6/TGF‐β Feedback Loop Between M‐MDSCs and Treg Inhibits Anti‐Bacterial Immunity During Biofilm Infection
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Pan Baiqi , Chu Chenghan , Zhang Yangchun , Ma Jinjin , Xing Yang , Ma Yuanchen , Zhu Wengang , Zhong Huan , Alimu Aerman , Zhou Guanming , Liu Shuying , Chen Weishen , Li Xiang , Puyi Sheng
Published: December 2024

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is a leading cause of Periprosthetic  joint  infection (PJI), a severe complication after joint arthroplasty. Immunosuppression is a major factor contributing to the infection chronicity of S. aureus PJI, posing significant treatment challenges. This study investigates the relationship between the immunosuppressive biofilm milieu and S. aureus PJI outcomes in both discovery and validation cohorts. This scRNA‐seq analysis of synovium from PJI patients reveals an expansion and heightened activity of monocyte‐related myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (M‐MDSCs) and regulatory T cells (Treg). Importantly, CXCL16 is significantly upregulated in M‐MDSCs, with its corresponding CXCR6 receptor also elevated on Treg. M‐MDSCs recruit Treg and enhance its activity via CXCL16‐CXCR6 interactions, while Treg secretes TGF‐β, inducing M‐MDSCs proliferation and immunosuppressive activity. Interfering with this cross‐talk in vivo using Treg‐specific CXCR6 knockout PJI mouse model reduces M‐MDSCs/Treg‐mediated immunosuppression and alleviates bacterial burden. Immunohistochemistry and recurrence analysis show that PJI patients with CXCR6high synovium have poor prognosis. This findings highlight the critical role of CXCR6 in Treg in orchestrating an immunosuppressive microenvironment and biofilm persistence during PJI, offering potential targets for therapeutic intervention.
A Novel Nuclear Protein Complex Controlling the Expression of Developmentally Regulated Genes in Toxoplasma Gondii
Authors: Xue Lilan , Zhang Jingwen , Zhang Lihong , Fan Fuqiang , Yin Xiaoyan , Tian Hengrui , Shen Bang
Published: December 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is a ubiquitous protozoan parasite with a complex life cycle containing multiple developmental stages. The parasites have distinct gene expression patterns at different stages to enable stage specific life activities, but the underlying regulatory mechanisms are largely unknown. In this study, a nuclear complex is identified that controls the expression of developmentally regulated genes. This complex consists of the AP2 family transcription factor AP2XII‐5, the epigenetic factors MORC and HDAC3, as well as a novel AP2XII‐5 interacting protein 1 (AIP1) that stabilizes this complex. At the tachyzoite stage when the parasites proliferate rapidly by asexual endodyogeny, AP2XII‐5 binds to the promoter regions of developmentally activated genes and recruits MORC and HDAC3 to suppress their expression. When sexual commitment and merozoite development are triggered, the abundance of AP2XII‐5 decreases and its suppression on target genes is relieved. In contrast to MORC and HDAC3, which regulate Toxoplasma development but are also essential for tachyzoite growth, AP2XII‐5 and AIP1 are dispensable for tachyzoite proliferation in vitro. These data suggest that while MORC and HDAC3 have broad regulatory activities, forming a complex with AP2XII‐5 and AIP1 enables them to specifically regulate gene expression during development.
A Comprehensive Transcriptome Atlas Reveals the Crucial Role of LncRNAs in Maintaining Nodulation Homeostasis in Soybean
Authors: Lin Yanru , Chen Chong , Chen Weizhen , Liu Hangcheng , Xiao Renhao , Ji Hongtao , Li Xia
Published: December 2024

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation (SNF) provides nitrogen for soybean. A primary challenge in enhancing yield through efficient SNF lies in striking a balance between its high energy consumption and plant growth. However, the systemic transcriptional reprogramming during nodulation remains limited. Here, this work conducts a comprehensive RNA‐seq of the roots, cotyledons and leaves of inoculated‐soybean. This work finds 88,814 mRNAs and 6,156 noncoding RNAs (ncRNAs) across various organs. Notably, this work identifies 6,679 nodulation‐regulated mRNAs (NR‐mRNAs), 1,681 long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) (NR‐lncRNAs), and 59 miRNAs (NR‐miRNAs). The majority of these NR‐RNAs are associated with plant‐microbial interaction and exhibit high organ specificity. Roots display the highest abundance of NR‐ncRNAs and the most dynamic crosstalk between NR‐lncRNAs and NR‐miRNAs in a GmNARK‐dependent manner. This indicates that while each tissue responds uniquely, GmNARK serves as a primary regulator of the transcriptional control of nodulated‐plants. Furthermore, this work proves that lnc‐NNR6788 and lnc‐NNR7059 promote nodulation by regulating their target genes. This work also shows that the nodulation‐ and GmNARK‐regulated (NNR) lnc‐NNR4481 negatively regulates nodulation through miR172c within a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network. The spatial organ‐type transcriptomic atlas establishes a benchmark and provides a valuable resource for integrative analyses of the mechanism underlying of nodulation and plant growth balance.
A Versatile Drift‐Free Super‐Resolution Imaging Method via Oblique Bright‐Field Correlation
Authors: Ma Hongqiang , Nguyen Phuong , Liu Yang
Published: December 2024

High‐resolution optical microscopy, particularly super‐resolution localization microscopy, requires precise real‐time drift correction to maintain constant focus at nanoscale precision during the prolonged data acquisition. Existing methods, such as fiducial marker tracking, reflection monitoring, and bright‐field image correlation, each provide certain advantages but are limited in their broad applicability. In this work, a versatile and robust drift correction technique is presented for single‐molecule localization‐based super‐resolution microscopy. It is based on the displacement analysis of bright‐field image features of the specimen with oblique illumination. By leveraging the monotonic relationship between the displacement of image features and axial positions, this method can precisely measure the drift of the imaging system in real‐time with sub‐nanometer precision in all three dimensions, over a broad axial range, and for various samples, including those with closely matched refractive indices. The performance of this method is validated against conventional marker‐assisted techniques and demonstrates its high precision in super‐resolution imaging across various biological samples. This method paves the way for fully automated drift‐free super‐resolution imaging systems.
How Highly Heterogeneous Sensors with Single‐Molecule Resolution can Result in Robust Continuous Monitoring Over Long Time Spans
Authors: Vu Chris , Yan Junhong , de Jong Arthur M. , Prins Menno W. J.
Published: December 2024

Biomolecular sensors with single‐molecule resolution are composed of multitudes of transducers that measure state changes related to single‐molecular binding and unbinding events. Conventionally, signals are aggregated from many individual transducers in order to achieve sufficient statistics. However, by aggregating signals, transducer‐to‐transducer differences are lost and heterogeneities cannot be studied. Here, transducers with single‐molecule resolution over long time spans are studied, enabling the collection of sufficient statistics from independent transducers. This allows comparisons between transducers that reveal fundamental heterogeneities in their molecular assemblies related to stochastic variations. The study is performed with biosensing by particle motion, a sensing methodology with thousands of particles that dynamically interact with a sensing surface. The signals of individual particles are studied for series of modulations of analyte concentration over 25 h. The results show large differences in individual concentration‐dependent responses. Monte Carlo simulations clarify that heterogeneities can be attributed to stochastic fluctuations in the numbers of binder molecules, and that gradual changes of the response characteristics can be related to losses of molecules in the single‐particle transducers. The results give insights into molecular and temporal heterogeneities of continuous transducers with single‐molecule resolution and explain how sensors can be engineered to achieve robust, precise, and stable biomolecular monitoring.
Spin Excitations of High Spin Iron(II) in Metal–Organic Chains on Metal and Superconductor
Authors: Liu Jung‐Ching , Li Chao , Chahib Outhmane , Wang Xing , Rothenbühler Simon , Häner Robert , Decurtins Silvio , Aschauer Ulrich , Liu Shi‐Xia , Meyer Ernst , Pawlak Rémy
Published: December 2024

Many‐body interactions in metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are fundamental for emergent quantum physics. Unlike their solution counterpart, magnetization at surfaces in low‐dimensional analogues is strongly influenced by magnetic anisotropy (MA) induced by the substrate and still not well understood. Here, on‐surface coordination chemistry is used to synthesize on Ag(111) and superconducting Pb(111) an iron‐based spin chain by using pyrene‐4,5,9,10‐tetraone (PTO) precursors as ligands. Using low‐temperature scanning probe microscopy, their structures and low‐energy spin excitations of coordinated Fe atoms are compared with high S = 2 spin‐state. Although the chain and coordination centers are identical on both substrates, the long‐range spin–spin coupling due to a superexchange through the ligand on Ag is not experimentally observed on Pb(111). This reduction of spin‐spin interactions on Pb in tunneling spectra is ascribed to the depletion of electronic states around the Fermi level of the Pb(111) superconductor as compared to silver.
Single‐Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics Delineate the Microstructure and Immune Landscape of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma in the Leading‐Edge Area
Authors: Zuyin Li , Zhao Li , Qian Cheng , Changkun Zhang , Delin Ma , Jialing Hao , Zhuomiaoyu Chen , Yuzi Li , Jiaxi Zheng , Jie Gao , Jiye Zhu
Published: December 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) tumor cells and their interactions with the immune microenvironment, particularly at the leading‐edge area, have been underexplored. This study employs single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) and spatial transcriptome (ST) analysis on samples from the tumor core, adjacent non‐tumorous tissue, and the leading‐edge area of nine ICC patients. These findings indicate that tumor cells at the leading‐edge area demonstrate enhanced proliferation and are tightly associated with the stroma, including endothelial cells and POSTN+ FAP+ fibroblasts. Notably, CD8+ T cells in this region exhibit a naive phenotype with low cytotoxicity and signs of exhaustion, likely due to compromised antigen presentation by antigen‐presenting cells (APCs). The predominant CD8+ T cell subset, mucosal‐associated invariant T (MAIT) cells, recruits SPP1+ macrophages within the stroma. This interaction, along with the presence of POSTN+ cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and endothelial cells, forms a unique “triad structure” that fosters tumor growth and ICC progression. The research highlights the intricate characteristics and interactions of ICC tumor cells in the leading‐edge area, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets for intervention.
Targeting CDK2 Confers Vulnerability to Lenvatinib Via Driving Senescence in Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Ma Ben , Sang Youzhou , Du Xiaoxue , Zhang Yanzhi , Yin Min , Xu Weibo , Liu Wanlin , Lu Jiayi , Guan Qing , Wang Yunjun , Liao Tian , Wang Yuting , Xiang Jun , Shi Rongliang , Qu Ning , Ji Qinghai , Zhang Jiwei , Ji Dongmei , Wang Yu
Published: December 2024

Anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC) is the most lethal tumor arising from thyroid follicular epithelium. Lenvatinib is an off‐label use option for ATC patients in many countries but an approved prescription in Japan. However, lenvatinib resistance is a substantial clinical challenge. Clinical ATC samples including lenvatinib‐resistant tumors are used to build patient‐derived cells and patient‐derived xenografts. High‐throughput drug screening and synergy analyses are performed to identify an effective combination partner for lenvatinib. Cellular functions are detected by cell senescence, apoptosis, cell cycle, cell viability and colony formation assays. CDK2 inhibition showed the significant synthetic lethality with lenvatinib via inhibiting G1/S transition and inducing cell senescence in ATC. High expression of CDK2 is associated with lenvatinib resistance and poor clinical outcomes of ATC patients. Lenvatinib increased protein expression of CDK2 in lenvatinib‐resistant ATC cells. Mechanistically, lenvatinib inhibited protein degradation of CDK2 via reducing CDK2's interaction with the RACK1‐FBW7 complex, which is involved in ubiquitination and subsequent proteasomal degradation of CDK2. Combination of CDK2 inhibitors in clinical trials (Dinaciclib or PF‐07104091) and lenvatinib markedly suppressed growth of xenograft tumors from the lenvatinib‐resistant patient. The findings support the combination therapy strategy of lenvatinib and CDK2 inhibitor for lenvatinib‐resistant ATC patients with high CDK2 expression.
A Synergistic Dual‐Atom Sites Nanozyme Augments Immunogenic Cell Death for Efficient Immunotherapy
Authors: Ning Shipeng , Zhang Zeyuan , Ren Yujing , Hou Yaxin , Li Dan , Chen Jingqi , Zhai Yujie , Fan Kelong , Zhang Weiqing
Published: December 2024

Inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD) is a promising approach to elicit enduring antitumor immune responses. Hence, extensive efforts are being made to develop ICD inducers. Herein, a cascaded dual‐atom nanozyme with Fe and Cu sites (FeCu‐DA) as an efficient ICD inducer is presented. The Fe and Cu dual‐atom sites synergistically enhance peroxidase (POD) and catalase activities, effectively converting intratumoral hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and oxygen (O2). Moreover, FeCu‐DA exhibits superior glutathione‐oxidase (GSH‐OXD) activity, catalyzing GSH oxidation to generate H2O2, enabling cascaded catalysis for sustainable ∙OH generation and reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) resistance by consuming GSH. Steady–state kinetic analysis and density functional theory calculations indicate that FeCu‐DA exhibits a higher catalytic rate and efficiency than Fe single‐atom nanozymes (Fe‐SA) because of its stronger interactions with H2O2. Its POD activity is 948.05 U mg−1, which is 2.8‐fold greater than that of Fe‐SA. Furthermore, FeCu‐DA exhibits impressive photothermal effects and photothermal‐enhanced cascaded catalysis kinetics for ROS generation, thereby inducing potent ICD. Combined with anti‐PD‐L1 antibody (αPD‐L1) blockade, FeCu‐DA shows synergistic enhancement in treatment under near‐infrared irradiation. This study provides insights for designing efficient dual‐atom nanozymes and demonstrates their potential in ICD‐induced cancer immunotherapy.
Attaining Full Li‐Ion Storage Capacity in Nearly Defect‐free and Preferential Orientation Grown LiCoPO4 Via ab initio Solvothermal Crystallization Control
Authors: Woo Moohyun , Park Sang‐Wook , Lee Jinhyuk , Seo Dong‐Hwa , Demopoulos George P.
Published: December 2024

Boosting energy density beyond the current status of Li‐ion batteries is actively sought after yet it remains very challenging. One promising pathway toward this goal is the development of defect‐free high‐voltage cathode materials via novel crystal engineered approaches. In response to this demand, the present study focuses on synthesizing LiCoPO4, which is a high‐voltage polyanionic compound, into nearly defect‐free structure and preferential orientation grown crystals via solvothermal method using ethylene glycol (EG) as surface energy control medium. Notably, ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and density functional theory calculations elucidate the role of interfacial energy variations induced by EG molecule interaction with particular crystal facets of LiCoPO4 giving rise to the desired growth direction in comparison with hydrothermal method. In addition to solvent regulated crystal growth, Argon‐annealing alleviates the undesired charge transfer resistance on the crystal surface by eliminating EG residue and further reduces the anti‐site defect concentration, thereby engineering essentially highly ordered crystal structure. The novel LiCoPO4 crystals are shown to possess nearly theoretical full discharge capacity (163.0 mAh g−1 and 774.7 Wh kg−1 at C/10) and superior rate capability (151.6 mAh g−1 and 716.9 Wh kg−1 at 1 C), a truly unmatched functionality offering new high‐voltage cathode design possibilities.
Mitigating Green Oil Deactivation in Acetylene Hydrogenation Using Carbon‐Supported Pd Catalysts
Authors: Hwang Seokyoung , Hwang Young Bean , Hwang Hyun Wook , Kim Dansil , Lee Ji Young , Hwang Jongkook , Park Eun Duck , Kim Seok Ki
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the mitigation of green oil deactivation in acetylene hydrogenation using carbon‐supported Pd catalysts. Various carbon supports including CMK‐3, short CMK‐3, activated carbon, graphite, mesoporous carbon, graphite nanofiber, and carbon nanotube, are compared. Catalyst performance, including deactivation rates and product selectivity, is evaluated under high acetylene concentration conditions. Comprehensive characterization of catalyst properties is conducted using techniques such as scanning electron microscope, Ar physisorption, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, CO chemisorption, and thermogravimetric analysis. The study reveals that carbon‐supported catalysts generally exhibit slower deactivation rates compared to alumina‐supported catalysts. Among carbon supports, carbon nanotube demonstrates exceptional stability, while graphite shows rapid deactivation. The catalyst surface area shows the strongest correlation with the deactivation rate, suggesting that the larger the surface area, the easier it is for the generated green oil to escape without covering the active Pd sites. These findings highlight the importance of textural properties in designing stable catalysts for acetylene hydrogenation and emphasize the need for a holistic approach to catalyst design.
Denture use and a slower rate of cognitive decline among older adults with partial tooth loss in China: A 10‐year prospective cohort study
Authors: Qi Xiang , Zhu Zheng , Pei Yaolin , Wu Bei
Published: December 2024

Objective

Denture use has been shown to improve nutritional intake and diet quality in people with tooth loss. Despite evidence linking tooth loss and dementia, few studies have examined the association between denture use and cognitive decline. We investigated the relationship between denture use and cognitive decline among Chinese older adults with tooth loss.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2008–2018, including 27,708 community‐dwelling dentate and edentulous (i.e., who have lost all natural teeth) older adults aged 65 and older. Cognitive function was assessed using the Mini‐Mental State Examination from 2008 to 2018. Linear mixed‐effect models were employed to assess the association of denture use with baseline cognitive function and rate of cognitive decline, adjusting for sociodemographic characteristics, health‐related behavior, and health status. Subgroup analyses evaluated differences in associations among dentate participants with varying degrees of tooth loss (1–9, 10–19, 20–31).

Results

Compared to non‐denture users, dentate participants who used dentures had better baseline cognitive function (β, 1.032; 95% CI, 0.813–1.251; p < 0.001) and a slower annual decline in cognitive function (β, 0.127; 95% CI, 0.047–0.206; p < 0.01). For edentulous participants, denture use was associated with higher baseline cognitive function (β, 3.063; 95% CI, 2.703–3.423; p < 0.001) but not with the rate of cognitive decline (β, 0.011; 95% CI, –0.082 to 0.105; p = 0.818). Results remained consistent across subgroups of dentate participants with various degrees of missing teeth.

Conclusions

Denture use may help protect against cognitive decline in older adults with partial tooth loss. This study highlights the potential importance of prosthodontic rehabilitation in preserving cognitive health. Further research is needed to establish a causal relationship between denture use and cognitive function.
Support‐Layer Integrated Zeolite Membranes through In Situ Interfacial Transformation of Clay‐Based Protomembranes
Authors: Zhang Jun‐Bin , Liu Qiang , Pan Wen‐Yan , Wu Jia‐Wen , Li Xingyang , Pan Meng , Shi Zhi‐Sheng , Du Chun‐Liang , Wei Xue‐Ling
Published: December 2024

Zeolite membranes are considered ideal inorganic membrane materials for separating mixtures with molecular‐level differences. However, their complex preparation process with excessive synthesis solutions for traditional hydrothermal heating methods leads to various drawbacks. Here, we describe a membrane preparation strategy involving an in situ interfacial transformation of the protomembrane without solvents. Inexpensive clay powder forms the protomembrane, and the active ingredients subsequently migrate from the interior of this protomembrane to its surface and transform into a zeolite layer. Ultimately, the protomembrane is calcined to obtain the support‐layer integrated zeolite membrane. Systematic research shows that clay not only serves as a raw material for the support but also provides active ingredients for the growth of zeolite crystals; thus, zeolite membranes with zeolite particles inserted into the support are formed. The zeolite membrane calcined at 800 °C possesses a p‐xylene/o‐xylene separation factor approaching 6263 with a permeation flux of 1.21×10−7 mol ⋅  m−2 ⋅  s−1 ⋅  Pa−1. This interfacial transformation method can be applied to other membranes and promote the development of membrane separation technology.
Spatially Preorganized Hybridization Chain Reaction for the Prompt Diagnosis of Inflammation
Authors: Jia Bin , Ge Jingru , Ma Yuxuan , Sun Xiaolei , Li Zhe , Jiang Shuoxing , Yu Hanyang
Published: December 2024

Biological systems utilize precise spatial organization to facilitate and regulate information transmission within signaling networks. Inspired by this, artificial scaffolds that enable delicate spatial arrangements are desirable to increase the local concentration of reactants, expedite specific interactions, and minimize undesired interference. In this study, we presented an integrated biosensing nanodevice, termed TRI‐HCR, in which hybridization chain reaction (HCR) probes were precisely organized on a triangular DNA origami nanostructure (TRI) with finely‐tuned distance, quantity, and pattern. Compared to traditional HCR in the free form, this nanodevice demonstrated increased reaction rate and signal level. We further employed the optimized TRI‐HCR for in vivo imaging of a nucleic acid biomarker of inflammatory diseases. In both acute gouty arthritis (AGA) and sepsis‐associated acute kidney injury (SA‐AKI) model mice, TRI‐HCR was capable of diagnosing inflammation in the early stages, significantly earlier than histological examination. We anticipate that this precise spatial preorganization strategy for HCR holds promise for broader applications in early disease detection and monitoring.
Red room temperature phosphorescence from lignin
Authors: Guo Hongda , Cheng Huanjie , Liu Ruixia , Chen Xiaoxia , Wang Luyao , Yang Chenhui , Li Shujun , Liu Shouxin , Li Jian , Pan Qingjiang , James Tony D , Chen Zhijun
Published: December 2024

Materials with red room‐temperature phosphorescence (RTP) derived from sustainable sources are crucial but rarely reported. Here, we produced red RTP materials from lignin. Lignin was covalently modified with Upy (1‐(6‐isocyanatohexyl)‐3‐(6‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐1,4‐dihydropyrimidin‐2‐yl) urea) to obtain Lig‐Upy. The Upy in the Lig‐Upy promoted the interaction between the aromatic units of lignin and reduced energy gaps of these molecules. As a result, Lig‐Upy exhibited red RTP centered at 625 nm with a lifetime of 24.2 ms. Moreover, the hydrogen bonding interactions in Lig‐Upy varied when embedded into different matrices, such as polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) or sodium montmorillonite (MTM), inducing a change in RTP wavelength and lifetime. Utilizing these properties, Lig‐Upy was used as building blocks for producing materials exhibiting time‐dependent phosphorescent colors (TDPCs). Such TDPCs materials have exhibited great potential for visual decorations, information encryption and anti‐counterfeiting logos for medicine bottles.
Heterocoupling Two Similar Benzyl Radicals by Dual Photoredox/Cobalt Catalysis
Authors: Yang Wei , Zhao Zhenyan , Lan Yu , Dong Zhou , Chang Ruiying , Bai Yihang , Liu Shihan , Li Shi‐Jun , Niu Linbin
Published: December 2024

Transition‐metal‐regulated radical cross coupling enables the selective bonding of two distinct transient radicals, whereas the catalytic method for sorting two almost identical transient radicals, especially similar benzyl radicals, is still rare. Herein, we show that leveraging dual photoredox/cobalt catalysis can selectively couple two similar benzyl radicals. Using easily accessible methylarenes and phenylacetates (benzyl N‐hydroxyphthalimide (NHPI) esters) as benzyl radical sources, a range of unsymmetrical 1,2‐diarylethane classes via the 1°–1°, 1°–2°, 1°–3°, 2°–2°, 2°–3° and 3°–3° couplings were obtained with broad functional group tolerance. Besides the photochemical continuous flow synthesis, the one‐pot procedure that directly uses phenylacetic acids and NHPI as the starting materials to avoid the pre‐preparation of benzyl NHPI esters for the gram‐scale synthesis is also feasible and affords good yields, showcasing the synthetic utility of our protocol.
Boosting Electrocatalytic Nitrate Reduction through Enhanced Mass Transfer in Cu‐Bipyridine 2D Covalent Organic Framework Films
Authors: Zhu Ying , Duan Haiyan , Gruber Christoph G. , Qu Wenqiang , Zhang Hui , Wang Zhenlin , Zhong Jian , Zhang Xinhe , Han Lupeng , Cheng Danhong , Medina Dana D. , Cortés Emiliano , Zhang Dengsong
Published: December 2024

Electrocatalytic nitrate reduction (NO3RR) is a promising method for pollutant removal and ammonia synthesis and involves the transfer of eight electrons and nine protons. As such, the rational design of catalytic interfaces with enhanced mass transfer is crucial for achieving high ammonia yield rates and Faradaic efficiency (FE). In this work, we incorporated a Cu‐bipyridine catalytic interface and fabricated crystalline 2D covalent organic framework films with significantly exposed catalytic sites, leading to improved FE and ammonia yield (FE=92.7 %, NH3 yield rate=14.9 mg ⋅ h−1cm−2 in 0.5 M nitrate) compared to bulk catalysts and outperforming most reported NO3RR electrocatalysts. The film‐like morphology enhances mass transfer across the Cu‐bipyridine interface, resulting in superior catalytic performance. We confirmed the reaction pathway and mechanism through in situ characterizations and theoretical calculations. The Cu sites act as primary centers for adsorption and activation, while the bipyridine sites facilitate water adsorption and dissociation, supplying sufficient H* and accelerating proton‐coupled electron transfer kinetics. This study provides a viable strategy to enhance mass transfer at the catalytic interface through rational morphology control, boosting the intrinsic activity of catalysts in the NO3RR process.
Modular Access to Silicon‐Containing Amino Acids and Peptides by Cobalt Catalysis
Authors: Wang Jixin , Chen Zexu , Chen Kaixin , Cui Zhili , Li Jie
Published: December 2024

A regioselective cobalt‐catalyzed three‐component silylamidation that rapidly and reliably incorporates dioxazolones and silylzinc pivalates into unconjugated alkenyl amides is disclosed. Notably, the unique power of this protocol is demonstrated by the possibility of achieving peptide ligation using peptide‐containing dioxazolones or alkenyl amides as the coupling partners. Moreover, this approach is distinguished by its mild condition, synthetic simplicity, and ample scope, thus providing a new platform for modular access to silicon‐containing amino acid derivatives and peptides.
Tunable Mechanically Interlocked Semi‐Crystalline Networks
Authors: Qin Wen‐Yu , Shi Chen‐Yu , Liu Guo‐Quan , Tian He , Qu Da‐Hui
Published: December 2024

High‐performance polymers based on dynamic chemistry have been widely explored for multi‐field advanced applications. However, noncovalent sacrificial bond‐mediated energy dissipation mechanism causes a trade‐off between mechanical toughness and resilience. Herein, we achieved the synchronous boost of seemingly conflicting material properties including mechanical robustness, toughness and elasticity via the incorporation of mechanical chemistry into traditional semi‐crystalline networks. Detailed rheological tests and all‐atom molecular dynamics simulation reveal that the excellent mechanical robustness and toughness are attributed to the dissociation of crystalline domains threading through the sieve‐shape macrocycles. Reversible nano‐crystalline domains and ring‐sliding‐effect accelerated segment motion efficiently reduce energy dissipation to achieve instantaneous resilience. Moreover, the model polymers demonstrate that the multiple dynamic components endow the resulting polymer with excellent reprocessability under mild conditions. This mechanically interlocked semi‐crystalline polymer exhibits potential applications as a thermal/photo actuator. This work reveals the synergic effects of mechanically interlocked sites and tunable crystalline domains, thus providing a reliable guide for the comprehensive improvement of material performance.
Synergistic Effect of Glycerol and Calcium Chloride on the Properties of Cellulose Acetate Film
Authors: Barman Ananda R. , Dutta Polash P. , Kapila Karanjit , Bania Kusum K. , Haloi Dhruba J.
Published: December 2024

The present work investigates the development and characterization of cellulose acetate (CA) films with varying concentrations of CA, incorporating glycerol as a plasticizer and calcium chloride (CaCl2) as a crosslinker. The films were fabricated using solution casting and phase inversion techniques. The inclusion of glycerol significantly enhanced the surface morphology, tensile strength (TS), and elongation at break (EAB) of the films. The optimal composition, containing 10% (w/v) CA and 1% (v/v) glycerol, achieved the highest TS (3.199 ± 0.077 MPa) and EAB (9.500% ± 0.401%). The addition of CaCl2 to CA resulted in improved thermal properties of the films, suggesting effective crosslinking between CA and glycerol, as demonstrated by the DSC and TGA analyses. FTIR analysis suggested that glycerol interacts with cellulose, through hydrogen bonding, modifying the intermolecular forces within the cellulose matrix. Glycerol also improved the films' hydrophilicity and reduced swelling, solubility, and water contact angle (WCA). The films also exhibited antimicrobial properties against
Staphylococcus aureus
(
S. aureus
), a gram‐positive bacterium, and achieved a soil biodegradation rate of 43.65% within 30 days. These results suggest that CA films with optimized glycerol and CaCl2 are promising for various industrial and medical applications where enhanced mechanical properties, permeability control, and biodegradability are essential.
Synthesis of Low‐Surface‐Energy Fluorinated Microemulsions by High‐Pressure Homogenization Processing Using Thermally Decomposable Amphoteric Surfactants
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Hongen , Ren Qiang , He Bei , Xiao Li , Jiang Zhengwu
Published: December 2024

In this paper, fluorinated microemulsions with small particle size, good stability, and low surface energy were successfully prepared by using high‐pressure homogenization processing for the dispersion of monomers and thermally decomposable N‐dodecyl‐N, N‐dimethylamine N‐oxide (LDAO) as surfactant. The synthesized products were determined to be fluorinated terpolymers using FTIR, 1H NMR, and GPC. The effect of homogenization processing and LDAO on the synthesis of the emulsions was investigated by determining the monomer conversion rate, emulsion particle size, mechanical stability, and surface energy. The results showed that when the homogeneous pressure was 45 kPa, the pH value was 2, and the LDAO concentration was 2%, the fluorine microemulsion with 98.9% monomer conversion, 61.7 nm particle size, good centrifugal stability, and 9.3 N m−1 surface energy could be produced. Common substrates became superhydrophobic (or strongly hydrophobic) and oil repellent after modification by prepared microemulsion. The modified substrates have excellent corrosion resistance and lower water absorption (water absorption value of only 1.3%). In addition, the coatings prepared in this paper are more difficult to be wetted by NaCl solution compared to coatings prepared with conventional fluorinated emulsions. It has great potential for application in the preparation of long‐life and corrosion‐resistant surfaces.
Efficiency, Safety, and Dissemination: Considerations for Research and Practice Related to the Practical Functional Assessment
Authors: Kranak Michael P. , Briggs Adam M.
Published: December 2024

Researchers have developed and evaluated procedural modifications to the functional analysis (FA) to improve its efficiency and safety while maintaining its precision. A contemporary FA modification is the interview‐informed synthesized contingency analysis (IISCA) or practical functional assessment (PFA). Nearly all of the extant dissemination efforts related to the IISCA/PFA support this approach, with little attention to its drawbacks and limitations. Further, the IISCA/PFA has been widely disseminated and seems to have been readily adopted by many clinicians as the nonpareil FA. However, researchers and clinicians should be aware of several lingering issues and considerations to have a more balanced understanding of the IISCA/PFA (e.g., the conditions under which this approach should be considered). Accordingly, we outline the strengths of the IISCA/PFA, considerations surrounding various factors (e.g., the dissemination tactics), ideas for future research, and how the discussion on this topic should move forward.
Mapping the Nexus: A Bibliometric Analysis and Social Network Analysis of Transformative Innovation Policies and Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Falcone Pasquale Marcello , Tutore Ilaria
Published: December 2024

The pursuit of sustainable development has become a critical global objective, especially in light of increasing global challenges. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), established in 2015, aim to address poverty, protect the environment, and ensure prosperity for all. Transformative innovation policies (TIPs) are emerging as vital strategies in achieving these goals by fostering systemic change rather than incremental improvements. TIPs are distinct because they seek to instigate profound transformations in sectors, societies, and economies, focusing on collaboration among diverse stakeholders. This manuscript aims to provide a comprehensive literature review and social network analysis to understand and highlights the interplay between TIPs and SDGs and elucidate business and management roles in advancing this global agenda. By analyzing existing research and visualizing the relationships within the literature, this study highlights the significant role of TIPs in advancing SDGs. The findings emphasize the necessity of innovative, inclusive, and purpose‐driven approaches to reshape society toward sustainable and equitable development.
Bridging the Gap Between Legitimacy and Voluntary Disclosure Theory and Current Corporate Nonfinancial Reporting Practices: Insights From Japanese Companies
Authors: Nishitani Kimitaka , Park Jin Dong , Haider Mohammad Badrul
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to bridge the gap between conventional assumptions of legitimacy and voluntary disclosure theories and current practices of corporate nonfinancial reporting. The analysis conducts regressions using data on 244 Japanese companies in 2019 to clarify whether the triadic relationship between a company's nonfinancial reporting motivation and practices and user information satisfaction is consistent. It contributes to the literature by showing that conventional assumptions have limitations in explaining the triadic relationship and identifying the mechanism underpinning how corporate nonfinancial reporting functions. First, although companies are more motivated by financial accountability than legitimacy in nonfinancial reporting, these motivations are not directly opposing, but are instead relative. Second, even when the financial accountability and legitimacy motivations are clear, they do not consistently satisfy user information needs. Finally, companies fulfil the financial accountability role only after they fulfil the legitimacy role.
Exploring anxiety, uncertainty perception, treatment experiences and coping strategies: An interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Parlar‐Yazıcı Aysun , Norman Alyson , Bacon Alison
Published: December 2024

Objective

Stress and anxiety are considered a major causative factor of various behavioural outcomes, such as insomnia, debilitating psychological and psychosomatic symptoms, and certain physiological ill‐health. The individual's appraisal process heavily influences a stress response, with the interpretation of the stressful situation being more important than the situation itself. This study aimed to examine the experiences and perceptions of stress and anxiety among individuals with anxiety. This included their coping mechanisms and experiences of treatment for anxiety. The concept of intolerance of uncertainty, a cognitive mechanism influencing anxiety, was also investigated.

Method

A qualitative interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) was applied as a suitable method to gain a deep understanding of individuals' lived experiences of anxiety. Ten participants were selected to participate in a semi‐structured interview.

Result

Three main themes were identified from participants' testimonies: (1) anxious narratives, (2) navigating anxiety and (3) healing journeys. The study revealed that participants experienced significant levels of stress and anxiety in their lives, with these conditions being perceived as substantial burdens. The coping mechanisms employed by participants predominantly centred around interpersonal support, particularly through engaging in conversations with loved ones. Common treatments for anxiety included antidepressants, private cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) sessions and counselling provided by general practitioners. However, accessibility issues and dissatisfaction with outcomes were reported concerning both CBT and antidepressant treatment.

Conclusion

The findings underscore the need for further research on effective interventions for stress‐ and anxiety‐related disorders and emphasise the importance of personalised treatments based on intolerance of uncertainty and resilience factors.
Integrated behavioral health as a vehicle for improved mental health care
Authors: Wagner Stephanie , Manning Alison , McCullough Judith , Pievsky Michelle
Published: December 2024

Integrated behavioral health care is an umbrella term that describes methods of delivering behavioral health services in a familiar medical setting to facilitate patient access to care and increase utilization by improving convenience, reducing weight times, and reducing the stigma of seeking mental health care. There are a number of models of integrated care, with the collaborative care and primary care behavioral health models being the most well‐known and evidence‐supported (Kallenberg & Sieber, 2024; Reiter et al., 2018; Yonek et al., 2020). Currently, integrated behavioral health exists in multiple forms in Rhode Island. In this article we will describe the current landscape and future directions of integrated behavioral health (IBH) at Hasbro Children's Pediatric Primary Care Clinic, including the team makeup, goals, and common reasons for consultation. Our aim is to help community providers, both pediatric and behavioral health providers better understand the IBH team and describe the types of services provided.
Viloxazine moderate dose associated with good ADHD outcomes
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2024

Attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is treated by medications, most recently, by viloxazine (Qelbree). Researchers in China looked at clinical trials to try to determine the best dose. Viloxazine was associated with better outcomes than placebo, with a bell‐shaped response curve suggesting that doses greater than 400 mg or greater than 7 mg/kg might not be linked to greater efficacy. Ascent curves tapered off about weeks 4 to 6. The curve for only 100 mg/d declined more rapidly, while the curves for 200 mg/dl and 400 mg/dl declined more gradually. In terms of adverse effects, there was a higher risk of discontinuation with viloxazine compared to placebo. The discontinuation rate due to adverse effects was 4.15% in the viloxazine group.
Morphological Characteristics Following Self‐Expanding Transcatheter Heart Valve Implantation and Implications for Hypoattenuating Leaflet Thickening
Authors: Shi Wence , Niu Guannan , Feng Dejing , Hu Xiangming , Wang Can , Zhao Zhenyan , Zhang Hongliang , Wang Moyang , Wu Yongjian
Published: December 2024

Background

Hypoattenuating leaflet thickening (HALT) following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) may compromise valve durability, posing a significant barrier to the broader adoption of this technology among younger patients. Self‐expanding valves (SEVs) are the most commonly used transcatheter heart valves (THVs) among Chinese patients with aortic stenosis. Understanding the potential mechanisms underlying HALT is, therefore, critical to guide future THV design and development.

Aims

Identify morphological factors associated with HALT Unidentified after SEVs implantation.

Methods

This study included 195 consecutive patients from Fuwai Hospital who underwent TAVR with SEVs. All participants underwent their first postoperative 4D‐CT scan within 6 months of the procedure. Key parameters following THV implantation were measured and recorded using 3mensio software. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to identify associations between variables and HALT. Discriminatory ability was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, followed by bootstrap validation for model robustness.

Results

HALT was observed in 36.4% of patients (71 out of 195 patients). New sinus height (NSH) and leaflet outflow area were identified as independent risk factors for HALT. The areas under the curve (AUC) for NSH and leaflet outflow area were 0.689 (95% CI: 0.612–0.767) and 0.602 (95% CI: 0.521–0.683), respectively, with no significant difference between them (p = 0.082). Bootstrap validation confirmed the robustness of both NSH and leaflet outflow area, showing performance comparable to the initial stepwise model.

Conclusion

NSH and leaflet outflow area were identified as critical post‐THV implantation parameters associated with HALT in TAVR patients treated with SEVs. These findings provide valuable insights that could inform the future design and optimization of SEVs.
Intra‐Aortic Balloon Pump: Overall and Temporal Trends of Comparative Effectiveness in a National Registry
Authors: Cohen Ben , Kalmanovich Eran , Perl Leor , Greenberg Gabi , Beigel Roy , Ovdat Tal , Kornowski Ran , Orvin Katia
Published: December 2024

Background

Although the latest studies failed to prove the benefit of routine intra‐aortic balloon pump (IABP) use in patients with acute myocardial infarction (MI) presenting with cardiogenic shock, the benefit of IABP utilization in selected cases in “real world” practice is unknown.

Aims

We sought to follow temporal trends in IABP use in a real‐world cohort of acute coronary syndrome (ACS).

Methods

We evaluated IABP utilization and patient outcomes from the Acute Coronary Syndrome in Israel Survey (ACSIS) between the years 2000 and 2021. Temporal trends and outcomes with IABP at two time periods were set: early (before 2012) and late (after 2012).

Results

Out of 18,662 ACS patients, 3.7% received IABP. The rate of IABP use was 4.5% in the early period and decreased to ~2.5% in the late period (p < 0.001). Patients treated with IABP in the early period had more frequently reduced ejection fraction (64.5% vs. 53.2%, p < 0.01) and presented mostly with ST‐elevation MI (71.0% vs. 62.4%, p = 0.04). Cardiogenic shock on admission and in‐hospital occurred equally in both periods (14.6% vs. 17.1%, p = 0.66; 42.8% vs. 41.9%, p = 0.90, respectively). Thirty‐day mortality and MACE were comparable between time periods (28% vs. 30.7%, p = 0.547; 43.6% vs. 44.1%, p = 0.978, respectively) however bleeding complications were significantly higher in the later period (4.8% vs. 11.2%, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

Our real‐world ACS data demonstrated a 50% reduction in the utilization of IABP among acute MI patients in the last decade. A comparable poor prognosis with IABP across time periods, suggest sustainable worse outcome in routine albeit selective clinical practice.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation in Small and Very Small Aortic Valve Annuli: A Propensity‐Matched Analysis Between Self‐Expanding Versus Balloon‐Expandable Valves
Authors: Itach Tamar , Loewenstein Itamar , Zahler David , Finkelstein Ariel , Barbash Israel , Greener Gabby Elbaz , Assa‐Vaknin Hana , Kornowski Ran , Turyan Anna , Steinvil Arie
Published: December 2024

Background

The management of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) patients with a small aortic annulus (SAA) postures a substantial challenge, increasing the risk of patient‐ prosthesis mismatch (PPM) and overall mortality.

Aims

This study aimed to compare the hemodynamic and clinical outcomes of transcatheter balloon‐expandable valve (BEV) versus transcatheter self‐expandable valve (SEV) in SAA.

Methods

We conducted propensity score matching (PSM) of severe AS patients with SAA who underwent trans‐femoral TAVR and enrolled to the Israeli TAVR registry between the years 2008 and 2023. SAA was defined as an aortic‐valve annulus area ≤ 430 mm2. Since the BEV used have a smaller size cut‐off, an additional analysis on very small aortic annulus (vSAA) as defined as aortic‐valve annulus area ≤ 345 mm2 was performed.

Results

The study included 1364 consecutive patients with SAA of (BEV n = 485; SEV n = 879) at a mean age of 82 ± 7 years, of whom the vast majority were female (83%). Propensity‐matched groups comprised of 329 and 122 paired for the SAA and vSAA patients, respectively. As compared to BEV in the SAA and vSAA analyses, SEV showed lower rates of postprocedural of LBBB (32% vs. 22% and 41% vs. 22%; both p < 0.01, respectively), however, higher rates of major vascular complications (2% vs. 7% and 2% vs. 12%; both p < 0.01, respectively) and major or life‐threatening bleeding but only in vSAA group (17% vs. 9.1%, p = 0.009). One‐month mortality was higher in the SEV versus BEV in both SAA and vSAA comparisons (2% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.048 and 3% vs. 0%, p = 0.018; respectively). A nonsignificant trend of higher 5‐year mortality was observed in univariate models, noted mainly in vSAA patients (22% vs. 19%, p = 0.385; 24% vs. 15%, p = 0.073).

Conclusions

The present analysis observed higher rates of major vascular complications and 1‐month mortality in SAA and vSAA treated with SEV. A similar nonsignificant trend toward long‐term mortality for the vSAA group was observed and should be evaluated in larger cohorts.