bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Green and Fluorine‐Free Fabrication of 3D Self‐Supporting MXene by Combining Anodic Electrochemical In Situ Etching with Cathodic Electrophoretic Deposition for Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Sheng Minhao , Bin Xiaoqing , Yang Yawei , Chen Zhong , Que Wenxiu
Published: December 2023

The work presents a green and fluorine‐free environmentally friendly two‐electrode system, which enables the direct fabrication of the corresponding 3D MXene electrodes by the synergistic combination of anodic electrochemical in situ Al etching from Mo2TiAlC2 MAX and cathodic electrophoretic deposition. In just several minutes, the Mo2TiC2 MXene can be deposited on the cathode plate (Pt foil or carbon cloth) without the need for organic large‐molecule intercalation agents or ultrasound treatment. This approach allows an efficient separation of MXene from the electrolyte, leading to a significant reduction in the quantity of waste acid generated by conventional acid etching processes. The electrochemically etched‐MXene can be uniformly and stably deposited onto carbon cloth (E‐MXene@CC), enabling its direct utilization as a 3D electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). This unique 3D E‐MXene@CC exhibits a moderate HER performance and outperforms most of the reported pure non‐precious MXene‐based catalysts in 0.5 m H2SO4. In order to clarify the catalytic mechanism, in situ Raman spectroscopy of 3D E‐MXene@CC reveals a significant down‐shift without observing any new bands when the HER potential shifts negatively, which can be attributed to H+ intercalation.
Nitrogen and Sulfur Rich Covalent Organic Framework‐Chitosan Triboelectric Nanogenerator for Disposable Urination Evaluation Tool
Authors: Sathiyanathan Ponnan , Saatchi Daniel , Boo Yeonju , Mahato Manmatha , Wicklein Bernd , Kim Ji‐Seok , Yoo Hyunjoon , Song Tae‐Eun , Taseer Ashhad Kamal , Kim Won Jong , Oh Il‐Kwon
Published: December 2023

Regular health checkups are crucial for the identification of problems in connection with acute and chronic diseases. Early detection helps patients prevent disease progression, receive more effective treatment, and improve their overall prognosis and quality of life. In this context, the introduction of cost‐effective, advanced sensor technology for the monitoring of healthcare is an essential and unavoidable approach. The present study proposes a disposable triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) based sensor for a novel urination condition evaluation methodology that is integrated with an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm. The disposable TENG sensor is fabricated using chitosan‐covalent organic framework (CS‐NSCoF). The optimized CS‐NSCoF (4%) composite, in contact with fluorinated ethylene propylene (FEP), yields remarkable output performance metrics: a peak‐to‐peak voltage of 132 V, a short‐circuit current of ≈2.38 µA, and an average power density of 10.89 mW m−2 at a load resistance of 200 MΩ. Notably, biocompatibility assessments confirm the non‐toxic nature of the CS‐NSCoF sample in this investigation.
Surface Defect Engineered Nano‐Cu/TiO2 Photocatalysts for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Liccardo Letizia , Moras Paolo , Sheverdyaeva Polina M. , Vomiero Alberto , Caballero Alfonso , Colón Gerardo , Moretti Elisa
Published: December 2023

Surface defects engineered nano‐Cu/TiO2 photocatalysts are synthesized through an easy and cost‐effective microwave‐assisted hydrothermal synthesis, mixing commercial P25 titania (TiO2) and oxalic acid (Ox), followed by 2.0 wt% Cu co‐catalyst (labeled as Cu2.0) loading through in situ photodeposition during reaction. The hydrothermal treatment does not affect the catalyst crystalline structure, morphology, nor the surface area. However, depending on the Ox/TiO2 molar ratio used an influence on the optical properties and on the reactivity of the system is detected. The presence of surface defects leads to intraband states formation between valence band and conduction band of bare titania, inducing an important enhancement in the photoactivity. Thus, Cu2.0/gOx/P25 200 (where g is the weight of Ox and 200 the temperature in Celsius degrees used during the synthesis) have been successfully tested as efficient photocatalysts for hydrogen production through methanol (MeOH) reforming under UV light in a MeOH/ H2O solution (10% v/v) by fluxing the system with N2, showing an increased reactivity compared to the bare Cu2.0/P25 system.
Chemical Evolution and Biological Evaluation of Natural Products for Efficient Therapy of Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Fan Chengcheng , Zhang Zeyi , Lai Zhencheng , Yang Yanzi , Li Jiaming , Liu Lei , Chen Siyu , Hu Xueping , Zhao Huajun , Cui Sunliang
Published: December 2023

Acute lung injury (ALI) is one of the most common complications in COVID‐19 and also a syndrome of acute respiratory failure with high mortality rates, but lacks effective therapeutic drugs. Natural products provide inspiration and have proven to be the most valuable source for bioactive molecule discovery. In this study, the chemical evolution of the natural product Tanshinone IIA (Tan‐IIA) to achieve a piperidine‐fused scaffold through a synthetic route of pre‐activation, multi‐component reaction, and post‐modification is presented. Through biological evaluation, it is pinpointed that compound 8b is a standout candidate with remarkable anti‐inflammation and anti‐oxidative stress properties, coupled with low toxicity. The mechanistic study unveils a multifaceted biological profile of 8b and shows that 8b is highly efficient in vivo for the treatment of ALI. Therefore, this work not only provides an effective strategy for the treatment of ALI, but also offers a distinctive natural product‐inspired drug discovery.
Aquatic Functional Liquid Crystals: Design, Functionalization, and Molecular Simulation
Authors: Kato Takashi , Uchida Junya , Ishii Yoshiki , Watanabe Go
Published: December 2023

Aquatic functional liquid crystals, which are ordered molecular assemblies that work in water environment, are described in this review. Aquatic functional liquid crystals are liquid‐crystalline (LC) materials interacting water molecules or aquatic environment. They include aquatic lyotropic liquid crystals and LC based materials that have aquatic interfaces, for example, nanoporous water treatment membranes that are solids preserving LC order. They can remove ions and viruses with nano‐ and subnano‐porous structures. Columnar, smectic, bicontinuous LC structures are used for fabrication of these 1D, 2D, 3D materials. Design and functionalization of aquatic LC sensors based on aqueous/LC interfaces are also described. The ordering transitions of liquid crystals induced by molecular recognition at the aqueous interfaces provide distinct optical responses. Molecular orientation and dynamic behavior of these aquatic functional LC materials are studied by molecular dynamics simulations. The molecular interactions of LC materials and water are key of these investigations. New insights into aquatic functional LC materials contribute to the fields of environment, healthcare, and biotechnology.
Fully Integrated Microfluidic Platform for Multiplexed Detection of Hunov by a Dynamic Confined‐Space‐Implemented One‐Pot Rpa‐Lamp System
Authors: Chen Fumin , Lyu Chenang , Li Zhao , Xiu Leshan , Li Huimin , Xie Yi , Cao Runzhen , Hu Qinqin , Yin Kun
Published: December 2023

Human norovirus (HuNoV) is the leading cause of nonbacterial acute gastroenteritis, which is highly infectious, rapidly evolving, and easily transmitted through feces. The accurate and early detection of HuNoV subtypes is essential for effective treatment, early surveillance, risk assessment, and disease prevention. In this study, a portable multiplex HuNoV detection platform that combines integrated microfluidics and cascade isothermal amplification, using a streamlined protocol for clinical fecal‐based diagnosis is presented. To overcome the problems of carryover contamination and the incompatibility between recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA) and loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP), a Dynamic confined‐space‐implemented One‐pot RPA‐LAMP colorimetric detection system (DORLA) is developed by creating a hydrogen bond network. The DORLA system exhibits excellent sensitivity, with detection limits of 10 copies µL−1 and 1 copy µL−1 for HuNoV GI and GII, respectively. In addition, a portable diagnostic platform consisting of a thermostatic control module and an integrated 3D‐printed microfluidic chip for specific HuNoV capture, nucleic acid pretreatment, and DORLA detection, which enables simultaneous diagnosis of HuNoV GI and GII is developed. A DORLA‐based microfluidic platform exhibits satisfactory performance with high sensitivity and portability, and has high potential for the rapid point‐of‐care detection of HuNoV in clinical fecal samples, particularly in resource‐limited settings.
Construction of 1,3‐Nonadjacent Stereogenic Centers Through Enantioselective Addition of α‐Thioacetamides to α‐Substituted Vinyl Sulfones Catalyzed by Chiral Strong Brønsted Base
Authors: Kondoh Azusa , Ojima Rihaku , Ishikawa Sho , Terada Masahiro
Published: December 2023

An enantioselective addition reaction for the construction of 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers is developed by means of a chiral strong Brønsted base catalyst. The chiral sodium ureate catalyst efficiently promoted the reaction of α‐thioacetamides as less acidic pronucleophiles with vinyl sulfones having a variety of α‐substituents including aryl, alkyl and halo groups, and α‐phenylacrylates, accomplishing the construction of various 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers in highly diastereo‐ and enantioselective manners. This is a rare example of the construction of 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers with less acidic pronucleophiles. In addition, the application of Michael acceptors having various types of α‐substituents in a single catalyst system is achieved for the first time, demonstrating the utility of the present catalyst system for the construction of 1,3‐nonadjacent stereogenic centers.
Synthetic Gene Circuits for Regulation of Next‐Generation Cell‐Based Therapeutics
Authors: Teixeira Ana P. , Fussenegger Martin
Published: December 2023

Arming human cells with synthetic gene circuits enables to expand their capacity to execute superior sensing and response actions, offering tremendous potential for innovative cellular therapeutics. This can be achieved by assembling components from an ever‐expanding molecular toolkit, incorporating switches based on transcriptional, translational, or post‐translational control mechanisms. This review provides examples from the three classes of switches, and discusses their advantages and limitations to regulate the activity of therapeutic cells in vivo. Genetic switches designed to recognize internal disease‐associated signals often encode intricate actuation programs that orchestrate a reduction in the sensed signal, establishing a closed‐loop architecture. Conversely, switches engineered to detect external molecular or physical cues operate in an open‐loop fashion, switching on or off upon signal exposure. The integration of such synthetic gene circuits into the next generation of chimeric antigen receptor T‐cells is already enabling precise calibration of immune responses in terms of magnitude and timing, thereby improving the potency and safety of therapeutic cells. Furthermore, pre‐clinical engineered cells targeting other chronic diseases are gathering increasing attention, and this review discusses the path forward for achieving clinical success. With synthetic biology at the forefront, cellular therapeutics holds great promise for groundbreaking treatments.
Beyond Imperfections: Exploring Defects for Breakthroughs in Perovskite Solar Cell Research
Authors: Min Jihyun , Choi Yelim , Kim Dohyun , Park Taiho
Published: December 2023

The field of solar systems has undergone rapid development with the emergence of the special material, perovskite. Perovskite's unique mechanism, defect tolerance, has enabled perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to achieve high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs), and many studies on this subject have been conducted. “Defect tolerance” indicates that the defects in perovskite are primarily generated at the shallow‐energy level and do not occur through nonradiative recombination. However, this also indicates that defects are well formed in perovskite films and that the shallow defects can transform into deep traps, leading to long‐term stability issues. Therefore, controlling defects in perovskite is essential for developing PSCs with high PCEs. The causes of defects in perovskite are diverse, and the defect patterns differ considerably, particularly depending on the location of the PSCs. In this review, the defects generated in perovskite will be discussed and review several methods for passivating them at different.
Solvent‐Mediated Synthesis of Functional Powder Materials from Deep Eutectic Solvents for Energy Storage and Conversion: A Review
Authors: Deng Rongrong , Gao Mingyuan , Zhang Bo , Zhang Qibo
Published: December 2023

Developing advanced electrochemical energy storage and conversion (ESC) technologies based on renewable clean energy can alleviate severe global environmental pollution and energy crisis. The efficient preparation of functional electrode materials via a simple, green, and safe synthesis process is the key to the commercial feasibility of these ESC systems. Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) with easy‐tunable solvent properties and recyclable features have emerged as novel solvent systems for designing and synthesizing various functional powder materials for ESC devices. In this paper, the application of DESs in the synthesis of energy‐related functional powder materials is systematically reviewed. After briefly introducing the classification and synthesis of DESs, their critical roles in synthesizing powder materials are discussed. Then, the recent advances of DES‐derived powder materials in ESC, including batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, and water splitting, are described in detail from the perspective of preparation‐structure‐activity. Finally, some challenges and development directions of the DESs‐mediated synthesis of powder materials with high electrochemical performance for ESC applications are outlined.
Among‐individual variation in flowering phenology affects flowering synchrony and mating opportunity
Authors: Shelton Wendy R. , Mitchell Randall J. , Christopher Dorothy A. , Jack Loretha P. , Karron Jeffrey D.
Published: December 2023

Premise

The timing and pattern of a plant's flowering can have important consequences for reproductive success. Variation in flowering phenology may influence the number of prospective mates, the risk of mating with lower quality individuals, and the likelihood of self‐pollination. Here we use a common garden experiment to explore within‐ and among‐population variation in phenology. Our work provides new insights into how flowering phenology shapes mating opportunity and flowering synchrony in a self‐compatible perennial.

Methods

To quantify variation in flowering phenology we raised progeny from nine populations of Mimulus ringens in a common garden. For each individual, we measured phenological traits including age at flowering onset, daily floral display size, total flower number, and flowering synchrony with other members of the population, and related these traits to mating opportunity. We also tested how individual flowering schedules influence the magnitude of synchrony.

Results

Flowering phenology and synchrony varied substantially within and among populations. From day to day, plants often oscillated between large and small daily floral displays. Additionally, flowering schedules of individual plants strongly influenced flowering synchrony and, along with the number of flowering days, markedly affected plants' mating opportunity.

Conclusions

Phenological traits such as flowering synchrony can affect the quantity of mating opportunities and may be important targets of natural selection. Our results highlight the need for studies that quantify flowering patterns of individuals as well as populations.
Facial dysmorphology in children exposed in pregnancy to anticonvulsant medications correlates with deficits in IQ
Authors: Holmes Lewis B. , Hunt Anne‐Therese , Will Leslie A. , Dhillon Ruby , Deutsch Curtis , Adams Jane
Published: December 2023

Some children exposed at conception to the antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) phenytoin (PHT), phenobarbital (PB), and carbamazepine (CBZ) have changes in their midface and fingers. It has been suggested that the anticonvulsant‐exposed child with these subtle changes in facial features (the “anticonvulsant face”) has a greater likelihood of having deficits in IQ in comparison with children exposed to the same anticonvulsants who do not have these features. 115 AED‐exposed children (40, PHT; 34, PB; and 41, CBZ) between 6.5 and 16 years of age and 111 unexposed children matched by sex, race, and year in school were evaluated. The evaluations were (WISC‐III), physical examination with measurements of facial features and digits and photographs. The AED‐exposed children had cephalometric radiographs, but not the unexposed. Each parent had a similar examination of face and hands plus tests of intelligence. These AED‐exposed children showed an increased frequency of a short nose and anteverted nares, features of the “anticonvulsant face.” Lateral skull radiographs showed a decrease in the angle between the anterior cranial base and nasal bone, which produces anteverted nares. Mean IQs were significantly lower on one or more IQ measures for the children with these facial features. Shortening of the distal phalanges and small fingernails correlated with the presence of a short nose in that child. The findings in 115 children exposed at conception to either phenytoin, phenobarbital, or carbamazepine, as monotherapy, confirmed the hypothesis that those with a short nose and anteverted nares had a lower IQ than exposed children without those features.
Electrohydrogenation of Nitriles with Amines by Cobalt Catalysis
Authors: Wang Tiantian , He Fangfang , Jiang Wei , Liu Jie
Published: December 2023

Catalytic hydrogenation of nitriles represents an efficient and sustainable one‐step synthesis of valuable bulk and fine chemicals. We report herein a molecular cobalt electrocatalyst for selective hydrogenative coupling of nitriles with amines using protons as the hydrogen source. The key to success for this reductive reaction is the use of an electrocatalytic approach for efficient cobalt‐hydride generation through a sequence of cathodic reduction and protonation. As only electrons (e−) and protons (H+) as the redox equivalent and hydrogen source, this general electrohydrogenation protocol is showcased by highly selective and straightforward synthesis of various functionalized and structurally diverse amines, as well as deuterium isotope labeling applications. Mechanistic studies reveal that the electrogenerated cobalt‐hydride transfer to nitrile process is the rate‐determining step.
Catalyst‐Free Regioselective Diborylation of Aryllithium with Tetra(o‐tolyl)diborane(4)
Authors: Mao Xiaofeng , Lu Zhenpin , Zhang Jie , Xie Zuowei
Published: December 2023

A catalyst‐free 1,2‐diborylation of aryllithium with tetra(o‐tolyl)diborane(4) has been achieved, giving a series of 1,2‐diborylaryl lithium species in excellent yields under mild reaction conditions, which leads to 1,2‐di(tolyl)borylarenes in 60–91 % yields upon treatment with the hydride‐abstracting reagent. In these transformations, one sp2 C−H of arene is activated and both boryl units are utilized to build two new (sp2)C−B bonds. This represents a new strategy for selective arene diborylation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations suggest that an aromatic nucleophilic substitution is a key step in the formation of the products.
High‐performance poly(lactic acid)/starch materials prepared via starch surface modification and its in situ enhancement
Authors: Zhao Xipo , Huang Zepeng , Zhang Dianfeng , Zhou Weiyi , Peng Shaoxian
Published: December 2023

High‐performance modified poly(lactic acid) (PLA)/starch (ST) blends were prepared by incorporating silane coupling agent. The coupling agent acted as a bridge between PLA and ST components, enhancing their interfacial compatibility during the melt blending. The addition of epoxy‐functionalized silane coupling agent improved the interfacial adhesion between PLA and ST phases, as evidenced by the decreased number and spacing of gaps between the ST particles and PLA matrix. The coupling agent also filled the surface crack of the ST particles, improving their dispersion in PLA matrix. The tensile strength of the modified PLA/ST blend increased from 19.6 MPa for the neat PLA/ST blend to 53.4 MPa, exceeding that of neat PLA. The modified blend also showed improved hydrophobicity and thermal stability. This research presented an effective approach to reducing the cost of PLA‐based materials and improving the performance of ST‐filled PLA materials by enhancing the interfacial adhesion between ST and PLA through surface modification with silane coupling agent. It provided a simple and feasible strategy for the high‐performance modification of polyester/ST materials.
Synergistic enhancement of polyvinylpyrrolidone‐modified TiO2 and graphene oxide on the corrosion resistance of waterborne epoxy
Authors: Xu Jia‐yu , Yang Xiao‐jun , Feng An‐hua
Published: December 2023

Waterborne epoxy (WEP) resins have garnered significant interest due to their potential application as anticorrosion coatings for steel materials. However, it has been reported that defects in the cured coatings generated during the curing process lead to the level of anticorrosion not meeting the expected effects. In this study, TiO2 and GO were selected to be modified by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to obtain PT and PG, and used to improve the anticorrosion performance of WEP. The obtained PT and PG were characterized using Fourier transform infrared, Raman, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The morphology of PT and PG before and after modification was observed using scanning electron microscopy, and the differences were described. The analysis results of laser confocal scanning microscopy and water contact angle (WCA) indicate that there are differences in surface roughness and WCA of the WEP coatings with or without PT and PG. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy was used to evaluate the anticorrosion performance of the coatings. The results showed that WEP coatings containing PT and PG exhibited better anticorrosion performance. The synergistic enhancement of PT and PG on the anticorrosion performance was proposed, which can be attributed to the comprehensive effect of the hydrophobicity of the coating surface and the barrier effect of PT and PG within the coatings.
Simulated evaluation of the degradation of hydrophobically associative polymers in the formation
Authors: Qi Yong , Shu Zheng , Luo Pingya
Published: December 2023

In this work, indoor physical simulation experiments were used to examine the effects of shear, thermal, chemical, and microbial degradation on the properties of the hydrophobic associative polymer AP‐P4. It was discovered that the viscosity of the polymer solution generally decreased as the shear time was extended. The larger the shear strength, the lower the solution viscosity. Fitting of the nonlinear equation of solution viscosity with shear time,η = 12,988 t−1.08. When thermal degradation started, the solution viscosity first started to rise, however, this phase was just a short one. The viscosity of the solution gradually started to decrease as the thermal degradation period grew. In addition, the trends of properties like hydrokinetic radius, hydrophobic connectivity, and hydrolysis essentially followed the same patterns as those of solution viscosity. At the beginning of the degradation process, the viscosity retention of the polymer solution without oxygen is significantly higher than that of the aerobic environment. However, the difference between the two becomes smaller as the degradation time increases. In addition, the AP‐P4 had good temperature resistance and aging resistance capabilities when iron ions were present. Finally, it was discovered that AP‐P4 had a strong antibacterial effect, which decreased the viscosity brought on by microbial action.
Physical and mechanical properties of fly ash‐based geopolymer with disposable medical mask reinforcement
Authors: Zhang Xinli , Li Xia , Shen Dazhi , Ma Yulian
Published: December 2023

A tremendous amount of the nonbiodegradable microplastic waste has been generated after the outbreak of COVID‐19 by the widespread use of single‐use personal protective equipment, especially disposable medical masks (DMMs). This has caused harm to the health and safety of human beings and various organisms. Finding a way to properly deal with these single‐use medical wastes has become an urgent problem. In this paper, an innovative way was explored to use DMMs in geopolymer (GP). The physical properties, mechanical strength, and resistance to high temperatures (200–800°C) of the composites were investigated. The findings of the study revealed that DMMs had negligible influence on resistance to high temperatures, but showed a positive influence on enhancing the compressive and flexural strengths of GPs at ambient temperature. The optimum DMMs content was 0.4 wt%, at which the compressive and flexural strengths of the GP composites were enhanced by 5.8% and 22.68% compared with the pure GP, respectively. The same polypropylene (PP) fiber amount increased compressive and flexural strengths by 7.49% and 9.76%, respectively. This thus confirmed that DMMs can be sustainably utilized in green building materials, playing a role as PP fibers toughening and contributing to the effective management of waste plastics.
Nascent pharmacological advancement in adamantane derivatives
Authors: Ragshaniya Aman , Kumar Vijay , Tittal Ram Kumar , Lal Kashmiri
Published: December 2023

The adamantane moiety has attracted significant attention since its discovery in 1933 due to its remarkable structural, chemical, and medicinal properties. This molecule has a notable impact in the therapeutic field because of its “add‐on” lipophilicity to any pharmacophoric moieties. As in the case of molecular hybridization, in which one pharmacophore is attached to another one(s) with a probability of increasing the biological activity, adding an adamantane unit improves the absorption distribution, metabolism and excretion properties of the resultant hybrid molecule. This review summarizes various reports highlighting the biological activities of adamantane‐based synthetic compounds and their structure–activity relationship study. The information presented in this review may open up possible dimensions for adamantane‐based drug development and discovery in the pharmaceutical industry after proper structural modifications.
Sensorless control of permanent magnet synchronous motor based on fixed‐time terminal sliding mode observer
Authors: Wei Xiaojun , Mei Keqi , Ding Shihong , Jiang Lianjie
Published: December 2023

In the sensorless control of a sliding mode observer (SMO)‐based permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM), a large gain is required to ensure the stability of the sliding motion. Nonetheless, this can lead to the unexpected chattering and degrade the precision of position estimation. To overcome this trouble, we have proposed a fixed‐time nonsingular terminal SMO (NTSMO). The convergence time is independent of the initial value. Firstly, a fixed‐time nonsingular terminal sliding mode surface is designed so that the current observation error fixed‐time converges to zero, and the singularity issue can be averted. Secondly, via the phase‐locked loop tactic, the rotor position and speed are calculated from the measured back electromotive force. Thirdly, a Lyapunov function‐based proof is utilized to assure the stability of the observer. Finally, the validity of this method is confirmed by simulation tests and experiment results.
Risk factors and characteristics of the birth of patients with craniofacial microsomia, a case–control study
Authors: da Rosa Ernani Bohrer , Correia Jamile Dutra , Silveira Daniélle Bernardi , Nunes Mauricio Rouvel , Gresele Merialine , Dallagnol Miriam Elisa , Ziliotto Marieli Barp , Rosa Rafael Fabiano Machado , Zen Paulo Ricardo Gazzola
Published: December 2023

Background

Craniofacial microsomia (CM) is characterized by changes in the first and second branchial arches. It is a clinical condition whose etiology is still uncertain, but studies have shown that genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors can result in disorders of blastogenesis of the branchial arches. This study evaluates gestational aspects, focusing on possible risk factors associated with CM.

Methods

This is a case–control study conducted with patients monitored at a medical genetics service and compared to a control group of patients without evidence of malformations, born in a mother and child hospital, both located in Porto Alegre, Southern Brazil. Mothers’ data were obtained using questionnaires and by reviewing medical records. The sample consisted of 43 patients with CM (cases) and 129 patients without evidence of malformations (controls), paired by sex, totaling three controls for each case. Data analysis was performed using the two‐tailed Fisher's exact test, Pearson's chi‐square test, and thet‐test.

Results

We identified several factors associated with the development of CM, including the use of abortion methods by the mothers of these babies (p = .001), maternal diabetes (p = .009), advanced maternal age (p = .035), and a history of vaginal bleeding (p < .001). Furthermore, these patients exhibited a tendency to be born prematurely (p = .027), with low birth weight (p = .007), and lower Apgar scores (p = .003) when compared to healthy infants. Using a multivariate model, the use of abortion methods (p = .003) and vaginal bleeding (p = .032) remained independently associated with craniofacial microsomia.

Conclusions

We have identified several risk factors for the development of CM, including a propensity for premature birth, low birth weight, and respiratory difficulties. Additionally, women of advanced maternal age and/or those who used abortion methods and/or have diabetes have a higher risk of giving birth to a baby with CM. This information can be valuable in clinical practice, especially for the prevention of future cases.
Fibroblasts and endothelial cells interplay drives hypertrophic scar formation: Insights from in vitro and in vivo models
Authors: Tan Yaxin , Zhang Mengde , Kong Yi , Zhang Fanliang , Wang Yuzhen , Huang Yuyan , Song Wei , Li Zhao , Hou Linhao , Liang Liting , Guo Xu , Liu Qinghua , Feng Yu , Zhang Chao , Fu Xiaobing , Huang Sha
Published: December 2023

Hypertrophic scar formation is influenced by the intricate interplay between fibroblasts and endothelial cells. In this study, we investigated this relationship using in vitro and in vivo models. Clinical observations revealed distinct morphological changes and increased vascularity at pathological scar sites. Further analysis using OCTA, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence confirmed the involvement of angiogenesis in scar formation. Our indirect co‐culture systems demonstrated that endothelial cells enhance the proliferation and migration of fibroblasts through the secretion of cytokines including VEGF, PDGF, bFGF, and TGF‐β. Additionally, a suspended co‐culture multicellular spheroid model revealed molecular‐level changes associated with extracellular matrix remodeling, cellular behaviors, inflammatory response, and pro‐angiogenic activity. Furthermore, KEGG pathway analysis identified the involvement of TGF‐β, IL‐17, Wnt, Notch, PI3K‐Akt, and MAPK pathways in regulating fibroblasts activity. These findings underscore the critical role of fibroblasts‐endothelial cells crosstalk in scar formation and provide potential targets for therapeutic intervention. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying this interplay holds promise for the development of innovative approaches to treat tissue injuries and diseases.
Clinicopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes of advanced SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors
Authors: Wang Anni , Jin Yueping , Cao Zhengqi , Lu Li , Li Ziming
Published: December 2023

Purpose

SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors, characterized by distinct clinicopathological, morphological, immunohistochemical, and genetic features, differ significantly from conventional non‐small‐cell lung carcinomas (NSCLCs). This group encompasses both SMARCA4‐deficient NSCLCs (SMARCA4‐NSCLCs) and SMARCA4‐deficient undifferentiated tumors (SMARCA4‐UTs). The efficacy of PD‐1 inhibitors in treating SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors remains uncertain.

Methods

Medical records of 36 patients diagnosed with stage IIIB, IIIC, or IV SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors were analyzed. We assessed the clinical, pathological, and genetic features of these patients through immunohistochemistry (IHC) and a 68‐gene panel next‐generation sequencing (NGS). We compared the differences between SMARCA4‐NSCLCs and SMARCA4‐UTs, and evaluated the impact of chemotherapy and immunotherapy on patient outcomes.

Results

The majority of patients with SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors were heavy‐smoking males, averaging 64.6 years in age. IHC predominantly showed weak or negative staining for markers such as TTF‐1, CK5/6, p40, synaptophysin, chromogranin A, and CD56, which are often associated with adenocarcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and neuroendocrine tumors. The most common genetic mutations identified via NGS included TP53, CDKN2A, KRAS, STK11, NF1, and PTEN. No significant overall survival (OS) difference was observed between SMARCA4‐NSCLCs and SMARCA4‐UTs (p = 0.366). The median OS for patients treated with chemotherapy (n = 9) was 447 days, while the median OS for patients undergoing PD‐1‐inhibitor‐based therapy (n = 16) was not reached (p = 0.105).

Conclusion

SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors exhibit distinct characteristics from conventional NSCLCs, and PD‐1 inhibitors show promise in treating advanced SMARCA4‐deficient thoracic tumors.
Exploring Sorbus torminalis Leaves: Unveiling a Promising Natural Resource for Diverse Chemical and Biological Applications
Authors: Ak Gunes , Tüfekci Enis Fuat , Mustafa Ahmed M. , Caprioli Giovanni , Altunoglu Yasemin Celik , Baloglu Mehmet Cengiz , Cakılcıoglu Ugur , Polat Rıdvan , Darendelioglu Ekrem , Zengin Gokhan
Published: December 2023

Sorbus torminalis (L.) Crantz has a rich history of versatile applications spanning the fields of medicine and nutrition. It is noteworthy that the decoction obtained from S. torminalis leaves is a traditional treatment method against both diabetes and stomach disorders. Phytochemical profiling determined by HPLC/MS‐MS. The effects of the extracts on cell viability were investigated using the MTT (3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) method against MDA‐MB‐231 cell line (human breast adenocarcinoma).The ethanol/water extract contained more concentration of total phenolic (91.41 mg gallic acid (GAE) equivalent /gr) and flavanoid (29.10 mg rutin (RE) equivalent/gr) in the tested extract (p<0.05). Resulting of HPLC analysis, the chemical constituents varied depending on the solvents and chlorogenic acid, hyperoside, isoquercetin, delphindin‐3,5‐diglucoside, procyanidin B2, epicatechin, neochlorogenic acid, 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid were identified in all extracts. Overall, ethanol, n‐hexane and ethyl acetate extracts showed the highest inhibition for the tyrosinase enzyme. The effect of leaf extracts of S. torminalis on antimicrobial, biofilm inhibitory, and anticancer activities was examined. Based on outcomes of our study recognize this plant as a critical source of medically active chemicals for feasible phytopharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications, providing the first scientific insight into the detailed biological and chemical profiles of S. torminalis.
Relationship of Thermostability and Binding Affinity in Metal‐binding WW‐Domain Minireceptors
Authors: Pham Truc Lam , Conde González Marcos R. , Fazliev Sunnatullo , Kishore Agi , Comba Peter , Thomas Franziska
Published: December 2023

The design of metallo‐miniproteins advances our understanding of the structural and functional roles of metals in proteins. We recently designed a metal‐binding WW domain, WW‐CA‐Nle, which displays three histidine residues on its surface for coordination of divalent metals Ni(II), Zn(II) and Cu(II). However, WW‐CA‐Nle is a molten globule in the apo state and thus showed only moderate binding affinities with Kd values in the μM regime. In this report, we hypothesize that improved thermal stability of the apo state of the metal binding WW‐domain scaffold should lead to improved preorganization of the metal‐binding site and consequently to higher metal‐binding affinities. By redesigning WW‐CA‐Nle, we obtained WW‐CA variants, WW‐CA‐min and WW‐CA‐ANG, which were fully folded in the apo states and displayed moderate to excellent thermostabilities in the apo and holo states. We were able to show that the improved thermal stabilities led to improved metal binding, which was reflected in Kd values that were at least one order of magnitude lower compared to WW‐CA‐Nle. EPR spectroscopy and ITC measurements revealed a better defined and predisposed metal binding site in WW‐CA‐ANG.
Infective endocarditis associated with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Tamura Yamato , Abe Takehisa
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Infective endocarditis caused by atopic dermatitis is common in young patients and has a high potential for causing embolism. Because of the high risk of mediastinitis postoperatively, minimally invasive cardiac surgery could be effective.
Osseous choristoma: Report of a case on the palate and a literature review
Authors: Shamloo Nafise , Modanloo Kiarash , Khaleghi Armin
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

Osseous choristoma is a rare entity, mainly found on the posterior tongue. It is described as a nodular or exophytic lesion with firm to hard consistency. Clinicians should consider osseous choristoma when confronting lesions with the same features.

Osseous choristoma is an unusual growth of ectopic bone in the soft tissue. This lesion is extremely rare, with a few cases reported in the literature, and they typically appear in the head and neck region, particularly the posterior tongue. The current report presents a case of osseous choristoma in the palate of a 51‐year‐old female. The patient had slight discomfort, which was resolved after surgical excision of the lesion, and no recurrence was observed. This research presents an instance of osseous choristoma in a less common location and concurrently acts as a review of this rare condition.
Infrared Fingerprints of the CO2 Conversion into Methanol at Cu(s)/ZrO2(s): An Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Kalered Emil , Damas Giane B. , Mäkie Peter , Käll Per‐Olov , Odén Magnus , Ojamäe Lars
Published: December 2023

The methanol economy is an attractive approach to tackle the current concerns over the depletion of natural resources and the global warming intrinsically associated with the use of fossil fuels. This can be achieved by hydrogenation of carbon dioxide to produce methanol, a liquid fuel with potential use in civil transportation. In this study, we aim to pinpoint the intermediates that are involved in the catalytic CO2 conversion into methanol on pure zirconia (ZrO2), Cu and Cu/ZrO2 systems. To accomplish this, we make use of infrared (IR) spectroscopy measurements and quantum chemical simulations within the hybrid density functional theory (DFT) framework. At 250 °C and p~30 bar, the main species formed on the partially hydroxylated ZrO2 is bidentate formate, whereas the co‐production of bicarbonate is relevant upon cooling to T=25 °C. On pure Cu, the IR fingerprints of methanol and carbon dioxide indicate their presence in the gas phase and surface environment, albeit formate/formic acid and methoxy species are also detected at these experimental conditions. The production of methanol on Cu/ZrO2 is mostly dependent on the Cu catalyst, but the higher amount of the methoxy intermediate can be correlated with the consumption of formate adsorbed on ZrO2 or at the Cu/ZrO2 interface. On the Cu/ZrO2 mixture, the reaction mechanism is likely to involve formate as the main intermediate, instead of CO which would result from the reverse water‐gas shift reaction. Ultimately, the higher activity shown by the Cu/ZrO2 mixture might be associated with the extra‐production of methoxy/methanol catalyzed by ZrO2 in the presence of Cu.
Multiarm studies and how to handle them in a meta‐analysis: A tutorial
Authors: Axon Emma , Dwan Kerry , Richardson Rachel
Published: December 2023

This tutorial focuses on multiarm studies. We will explain what multiarm studies are and how to include data from them in a meta‐analysis.
Design, Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel Anticancer Amidinourea Analogues via Unexpected 1,3,5‐Triazin‐2‐one Ring Opening
Authors: Grytsai Oleksandr , Hamouda‐Tekaya Nedra , Botton Thomas , Rocchi Stéphane , Benhida Rachid , Ronco Cyril
Published: December 2023

Amidinoureas are an understudied class of molecules with unique structural properties and biological activities. A simple methodology has been developed for the synthesis of aliphatic substituted amidinoureas via unexpected cycle opening of benzothiazolo‐1,3,5‐triazine‐2‐ones and transamination reaction of N‐(N‐(benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)carbamimidoyl)aniline‐1‐carboxamide in good yields. A novel series of amidinoureas derivatives was designed, synthesized, and evaluated for its antiproliferative activity on an aggressive metastatic melanoma A375 cell line model. This evaluation reveals antiproliferative activities in the low micromolar range and establishes a first structure‐activity relationship. In addition, analogues selected for their structural diversity were assayed on a panel of cancer cell lines through the DTP‐NCI60, on which they showed effectiveness on various cancer types, with promising activities on melanoma cells for two hit compounds. This work paves the way for further optimization of this family of compounds towards the development of potent antimelanoma agents.
Host‐Guest Chemistry in Binary and Ternary Complexes Utilizing π‐Conjugated Carbon Nanorings
Authors: Fan Yanqing , He Jing , Guo Shengzhu , Jiang Hua
Published: December 2023

The carbon nanorings, possessing a radial π system, have garnered significant attention primarily due to their size‐dependent photophysical properties and the presence of a unique curved π‐conjugated cavity. This is evidenced by the rapid proliferation of publications. Furthermore, the integration of building blocks into CPP skeletons can confer [n]CPPs with novel and exceptional photophysical and electronic characteristics, as well as chiral properties and host‐guest interactions, thereby augmenting the diversity of [n]CPPs. Notably, the curved π surface structures and concave cavity of carbon nanorings enable them to host aromatic or non‐aromatic guests with a complementarily curved surface, resulting in interesting binary or ternary complexes. This review provides a comprehensive treatment of literature reports on binary and ternary complexes, focusing on both their host‐guest interactions and properties. It is important to note that the scope of this review is limited to host‐guest chemistry in binary and ternary complexes based on π‐conjugated carbon nanorings.
Effect of Cobalt on Lifetime of Sb4O5Cl2‐Graphene Anode in Chloride‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Shen Kefan , Lu Xiaoxiao , Shen Shenghui , Xu Panpan , Zeng Yunhui , Li Luying , Cai Yurong , Jia Wenbo , Wang Hong
Published: December 2023

Anode materials based on metal oxychlorides hold promise in addressing electrode dissolution challenges in aqueous‐based chloride ion batteries (CIBs). However, their structural instability following chloride ion deintercalation can lead to rapid degradation and capacity fading. This paper investigates a cobalt‐doped Sb4O5Cl2‐graphene (Co‐Sb4O5Cl2@GO) composite anode for aqueous‐based CIBs. It exhibits significantly enhanced discharge capacity of 82.3 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.3 A g−1; while, the undoped comparison is only 23.5 mAh g−1 in the same condition. It also demonstrated with a long‐term capacity retention of 72.8 % after 1000 cycles (65.5 mAh g−1) and a favorable rate performance of 25 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 2 A g−1. Undertaken comprehensive studies via in‐situ experiments and DFT calculations, the cobalt (Co) dopant is demonstrated as the crucial role to enhance the lifetime of Sb4O5Cl2‐based anodes. It is found that, the Co dopant improves electronic conductivity and the diffusion of chloride ions beside increases the structural stability of Sb4O5Cl2 crystal. Thus, this element doping strategy holds promise for advancing the field of Sb4O5Cl2‐based anodes for aqueous‐based CIBs, and insights gain from this study also offer valuable knowledge to develop high‐performance electrode materials for electrochemical deionization.
An efficient task offloading strategy based on Aquila Student Psychology Optimization Algorithm in internet of vehicles‐fog computing systems
Authors: Lohat Savita , Jain Sheilza , Kumar Rajender
Published: December 2023

Internet of vehicles (IoV) comprises connected vehicles and connected autonomous vehicles and offers numerous benefits for ensuring traffic and safety competence. Several IoV applications are delay‐sensitive and need resources for computation and data storage that are not provided by vehicles. Therefore, these tasks are always offloaded to highly powerful nodes, namely, fog, which can bring resources nearer to the networking edges, reducing both traffic congestion and load. Besides, the mechanism of offloading the tasks to the fog nodes in terms of delay, computing power, and completion time remains still as an open concern. Hence, an efficient task offloading strategy, named Aquila Student Psychology Optimization Algorithm (ASPOA), is developed for offloading the IoV tasks in a fog setting in terms of the objectives, such as delay, computing power, and completion time. The devised optimization algorithm, known as ASPOA, is the incorporation of Aquila Optimizer (AO) and Student Psychology Based Optimization (SPBO). Task offloading in the IoV‐fog system selects suitable resources for executing the tasks of the vehicles by considering several constraints and parameters to satisfy the user requirements. The simulation outcomes have shown that the devised ASPOA‐based task offloading method has achieved better performance by achieving a minimum delay of 0.0009 s, minimum computing power of 8.884 W, and minimum completion time of 0.441 s.