bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulated microgravity‐induced dysregulation of cerebrospinal fluid immune homeostasis by disrupting the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier
Authors: Yang Jing , Cui Yaoyuan , Zhao Juan , Tang Shiyi , Wang Anqing , Wang Junxiao , Chen Yu , Luo Jilong , Wang Guan , Yan Junhao , Du Jichen , Wang Jiawei
Published: September 2024

Background

The blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier (BCSFB) comprises the choroid plexus epithelia. It is important for brain development, maintenance, function, and especially for maintaining immune homeostasis in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Although previous studies have shown that the peripheral immune function of the body is impaired upon exposure to microgravity, no studies have reported changes in immune cells and cytokines in the CSF that reflect neuroimmune status. The purpose of this study is to investigate the alterations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) immune homeostasis induced by microgravity and its mechanisms. This research is expected to provide basic data for brain protection of astronauts during spaceflight.

Methods

The proportions of immune cells in the CSF and peripheral blood (PB) of SMG rats were analyzed using flow cytometry. Immune function was evaluated by measuring cytokine concentrations using the Luminex method. The histomorphology and ultrastructure of the choroid plexus epithelia were determined. The concentrations of intercellular junction proteins in choroid plexus epithelial cells, including vascular endothelial‐cadherin (VE‐cadherin), zonula occludens 1 (ZO‐1), Claudin‐1 and occludin, were detected using western blotting and immunofluorescence staining to characterize BCSFB injury.

Results

We found that SMG caused significant changes in the proportion of CD4 and CD8 T cells in the CSF and a significant increase in the levels of cytokines (GRO/KC, IL‐18, MCP‐1, and RANTES). In the PB, there was a significant decrease in the proportion of T cells and NKT cells and a significant increase in cytokine levels (GRO/KC, IL‐18, MCP‐1, and TNF‐α). Additionally, we observed that the trends in immune markers in the PB and CSF were synchronized within specific SMG durations, suggesting that longer SMG periods (≥21 days) have a more pronounced impact on immune markers. Furthermore, 21d‐SMG resulted in ultrastructural disruption and downregulated expression of intercellular junction proteins in rat choroid plexus epithelial cells.

Conclusions

We found that SMG disrupts the BCSFB and affects the CSF immune homeostasis. This study provides new insights into the health protection of astronauts during spaceflight.
Exploring the impact of acetylsalicylic acid and conditioned medium obtained from mesenchymal cells, individually and in combination, on cognitive function, histological changes, and oxidant–antioxidant balance in male rats with hippocampal injury
Authors: Zangiabadi Iman , Ilaghi Mehran , Shamsara Ali , Eftekhar‐Vaghefi Seyed Hassan , Saheli Mona , Shabani Mohammad
Published: September 2024

Background

The hippocampus is susceptible to damage, leading to negative impacts on cognition. Conditioned medium (CM) obtained from adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) have shown neuroprotective effects independently. This study explored the synergistic potential of ASA and CM from adipose‐derived MSCs against hippocampal injury.

Methods

Adult male Wistar rats received bilateral hippocampal ethidium bromide (EB) injections to induce hippocampal damage. Rats were treated with ASA and/or CM derived from adipose tissue MSCs every 48 h for 16 days. Behavioral tests (open field test, Morris water maze, novel object recognition, and passive avoidance), oxidative stress, Western blot analysis of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and cerebral dopamine neurotrophic factor (CDNF) expression, and hippocampal histological investigation were conducted.

Results

Administration of EB caused impairments in spatial, recognition, and passive avoidance memory, as well as heightened oxidative stress, reduced BDNF/CDNF expression, and pyramidal cell loss in the hippocampal CA1 region. Administration of ASA, CM, or a combination of both mitigated these hippocampal damages and cognitive deficits, elevated BDNF and CDNF levels, and alleviated the CA1 necrosis caused by EB. Moreover, co‐administering ASA and CM resulted in greater improvements in spatial memory compared to administering ASA alone, suggesting possible synergistic interactions.

Conclusions

The ability of ASA, CM obtained from adipose tissue–derived MSCs, and their combination therapy to alleviate hippocampal injuries highlights their promising therapeutic potential as a neuroprotection strategy against brain damage. Our findings provide preliminary evidence of the potential synergistic effects of ASA and CM, which warrants further investigations.
Senior management's sustainability commitment and environmental performance: Revealing the role of green human resource management practices
Authors: Qalati Sikandar Ali , Siddiqui Faiza , Magni Domitilla
Published: September 2024

The significance of firm environmental performance (FEP) has been recognized by academic experts. Nevertheless, a comprehensive exploration of the driving factors behind it remains lacking. In order to bridge this gap, this study employs the perspective of the Triple Bottom Line theory and explores the influence of senior management sustainability commitment (SMSC) and green human resource management practices (GHRMP) on FEP. Furthermore, the study explores the direct and mediating role of GHRMP on the SMSC–FEP relationship. The moderation role of environmental knowledge and green organizational culture was also explored. A questionnaire with closed‐ended questions was sent online to 321 manufacturing companies, followed by analysis using SmartPLS 4.0. The results of this study indicate that SMSC has a significant influence on both GHRMP and FEP. Elucidation is provided in the discourse relating to the theoretical and practical contribution. Additionally, the limitations and potential for further inquiry are specified.
Carbon‐coated current collectors in lithium‐ion batteries and supercapacitors: Materials, manufacture and applications
Authors: Hao Hongqing , Tan Rui , Ye Chunchun , Low Chee Tong John
Published: September 2024

The current collector is a crucial component in lithium‐ion batteries and supercapacitor setups, responsible for gathering electrons from electrode materials and directing them into the external circuit. However, as battery systems evolve and the demand for higher energy density increases, the limitations of traditional current collectors, such as high contact resistance and low corrosion resistance, have become increasingly evident. This review investigates the functions and challenges associated with current collectors in modern battery and supercapacitor systems, with a particular focus on using carbon coating methods to enhance their performance. Surface coating, known for its simplicity and wide applicability, emerges as a promising solution to address these challenges. The review provides a comprehensive overview of carbon‐coated current collectors across various types of metal and nonmetal substrates in lithium‐ion batteries and supercapacitors, including a comparative analysis of coating materials and techniques. It also discusses methods for manufacturing carbon‐coated current collectors and their practical implications for the industry. Furthermore, the review explores prospects and opportunities, highlighting the development of next‐generation high‐performance coatings and emphasizing the importance of advanced current collectors in optimizing energy device performance.
Two‐dimensional carbonitride MXenes: From synthesis to properties and applications
Authors: Zhang Weiwei , Li Shibo , Fan Xiachen , Zhang Xuejin , Fan Shukai , Bei Guoping
Published: September 2024

Carbonitride MXenes, such as Ti3CNTx, Ti2C0.5N0.5Tx, and Ti4(C0.2N0.8)3Tx, have attracted much interest in the large family of two‐dimensional (2D) nanomaterials. Like their carbide MXene counterparts, the nanolayered structure and functional groups endow carbonitride MXenes with an attractive combination of physical and chemical properties. More interestingly, the replacement of C by N changes the lattice parameters and electron distribution of carbonitride MXenes due to the greater electronegativity of N as compared to C, thus resulting in significantly enhanced functional properties. This paper reviews the development of carbonitride MXenes, the preparation of 2D carbonitride MXenes, and the current understanding of the microstructure, electronic structure, and functional properties of carbonitride MXenes. In addition, applications, especially in energy storage, sensors, catalysts, electromagnetic wave shielding and absorption, fillers, and environmental and biomedical fields, are summarized. Finally, their current limitations and future opportunities are presented.
Lactonization of Diols Over Highly Efficient Metal‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Tan Xiaomeng , Min Rui , Wang Shiyu , Ning Hui , Mu Baoquan , Cao Ning , Yan Wenjuan , Jin Xin , Yang Chaohe
Published: September 2024

Lactones has gained increasing attention in recent years due to wide application in polymer and pharmaceutical industries. Traditional synthetic methods of lactones often involve harsh operating temperature, use of strong alkalis and toxic oxidants. Therefore, lactonization of diols under milder conditions have been viewed as the most promising route for future commercialization. A variety of metal catalysts (Ru, Pt, Ir, Au, Fe, Cu, Co, and Zn) have been developed for highly efficient oxidant‐, acceptor‐, base‐ and additive‐free lactonization processes. However, only a few initial attempts have been reported with no further details on catalytic mechanism being disclosed in literature. There demands a systematic study of the mechanistic details and the structure‐function relationship to guide the catalyst design. In this work, we critically reviewed and discussed the structure‐function relationship, the catalytic reaction mechanism, the catalyst stability, as well as the effect of oxidant and solvent for lactonization of diols. This work may provide additional insights for the development of other oxygen‐containing functional molecules for material science and technologies.
Ventenata dubia projected to expand in the western United States despite future novel conditions
Authors: Nietupski Ty C. , Kim John B. , Tortorelli Claire M. , Lemons Rebecca , Kerns Becky K.
Published: September 2024

Distributions of both native and invasive species are expected to shift under future climate. Species distribution models (SDMs) are often used to explore future habitats, but sources of uncertainty including novel climate conditions may reduce the reliability of future projections. We explore the potential spread of the invasive annual grass ventenata (Ventenata dubia) in the western United States under both current and future climate scenarios using boosted regression tree models and 30 global climate models (GCMs). We quantify novel climate conditions, prediction variability arising from both the SDMs and GCMs, and the agreement among GCMs. Results demonstrate that currently suitable habitat is concentrated inside the invaded range of the northwest, but substantial habitat exists outside the invaded range in the Southern Rockies and southwestern US mountains. Future suitability projections vary greatly among GCMs, but GCMs commonly projected decreased suitability in the invaded range and increased suitability along higher elevations of interior mountainous areas. Climate novelty did not appear to undermine the prediction reliability in many cases where the climate–species relationship was fully represented by the occurrence data. GCM‐derived variability resulting from variation in future cool season precipitation and temperature seasonality was greatest in the Rocky Mountains. SDM‐derived variability was higher in currently suitable habitat, and few GCMs projections agreed that these areas would contain future suitable habitat. However, while prediction variability was high, many GCM projections agreed that parts of the Rocky, Wasatch, and Uinta Mountains would contain highly suitable habitat in the future. As disturbances in the interior mountains occur in coming decades, reducing some natural barriers to invasion, land managers, and conservationists will need to monitor for ventenata in post‐disturbance environments. Changes to invasion potential may not play out for several decades, but results related to current potential may have applications for early detection and rapid response planning.
High frequency of silent mutations in gyrA gene of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Indian isolates
Authors: Gupta Anamika , Pal Sudhir K. , Nema Vijay
Published: September 2024

Reporting any uncommon or untapped changes in bacterial genetics or physiology would be of great importance to support the drug development process. We studied 120 Mycobacterium tuberculosis clinical isolates with different geographical origin within India and their resistance profile and found a significant number of isolates (109) harboring the polymorphism at nucleotide positions 61 and 284 of the gyrA gene. Bioinformatics analysis of these changes for drug binding suggested no significant change in the binding of the drug but have lower binding energies as compared with the wild‐type proteins. Although functionally silent for the gyrA gene, these changes are indicating a silent geographical and evolutionary change that needs to be further studied for drug discovery and bacterial fitness.
Investigation of society's sensitivity to environmental pollution and electronic waste in Turkey
Authors: Yalçın Ahmet Burak , Güneş‐Durak Sevgi
Published: September 2024

A questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the factors that are effective in assessing people's attitudes toward e‐waste pollution prevention. Reliability analysis, normality distribution analysis, correlation and regression analysis, independent sample t‐test, and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) were performed on the data obtained through IBM SPSS Statistics 25. In this way, it was determined to what extent the level of public awareness of e‐waste, environmental concerns, empathy, and moral norms toward the environment are affected by socio‐demographic factors. According to the study results, a significant relationship was found between environmental concerns, environmental pollution awareness, environmental responsibility, personal moral norms and educational status, and empathy and moral norms. In addition, limited growth, anthropocentrism, fragility of the balance of nature, educational status, and having children were also found to have a significant relationship with environmental concerns. However, a significant relationship was found between marital status and environmental concerns, empathy and moral norms. A significant relationship was also found between age group and empathy and moral norms.
The dawn of a sexual assault relief center: A 12‐year fact‐finding survey of victims of sexual assault conducted since 2010 by SACHICO, Japan's first rape crisis center
Authors: Kusumoto Yuki , Kobayashi Eiji , Yagi Asami , Ishida Emi , Miyazawa Aya , Kikuchi Kaori , Kudara Kana , Shimada Katsuko , Yamamasu Seiichi , Ueda Yutaka , Kimura Tadashi , Kato Haruko
Published: September 2024

Objective

In Japan, amidst insufficient legal provisions and governmental support, in 2010, the first rape crisis center, the Sexual Assault Crisis Healing Intervention Center Osaka (SACHICO) was established. We compared SACHICO visitor data from 2010 to 2021 with National Police Agency statistics to clarify the current situation of sexual assault victims in Japan and considered future issues for Japan to address.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional study that analyzed the data described below. All visitations to SACHICO between April 2010 and December 2021 were considered targets for data totaling. Data on crime statistics were gathered from the official governmental statistics portal site.

Results

A total of 12 036 visitations occurred, of which 3189 were first‐time consultations; 3100 initial medical examinations were conducted, and no medical examination was conducted in the remaining 89 cases (2.7%). The number of initial medical examinations increased 3.7 times from 2010 to 2021. Victims under the age of 19 comprised 60% of the total number of initial medical examinations (1863/3100). The reporting rate for all 3100 initial medical examinations was only 31.3% (969/3100) of the cases. The proportion of forcible sexual intercourse versus forcible indecency were the converse of those observed among acknowledged cases nationwide and in Osaka Prefecture. For several years, the number of initial medical consultations at SACHICO has exceeded that of acknowledged cases in Osaka Prefecture.

Conclusion

Support for victims of sexual assault in Japan is still insufficient. It is necessary to strengthen the system of rape crisis centers system to realize an unbroken chain of support for victims.
Efficacy of non‐lead ammunition distribution programs to offset fatalities of golden eagles in southeast Wyoming
Authors: Slabe Vincent A. , Crandall Ross H. , Katzner Todd , Duerr Adam E. , Miller Tricia A.
Published: September 2024

Golden eagles (Aquila chrysaetos) face many anthropogenic risks including illegal shooting, electrocution, collision with wind turbines and vehicles, and lead poisoning. Minimizing or offsetting eagle deaths resulting from human‐caused sources is often viewed as an important management objective. Despite understanding the leading anthropogenic sources of eagle fatalities, existing scientific research supports few practical solutions to mitigate these causes of death. We implemented a non‐lead ammunition distribution program in southeast Wyoming, USA, and evaluated its effectiveness as a compensatory mitigation action to offset incidental take (i.e., fatalities) of golden eagles at wind energy facilities. In 2020 and 2022, we distributed non‐lead ammunition to 699 hunters with big‐game tags specific to our >400,000‐ha study area. These hunters harvested 296 pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), 14 deer (Odocoileus spp.), and 33 elk (Cervus canadensis) in the study area, which accounted for 6.9% and 6.5% of the harvest in these hunt units in 2020 and 2022, respectively. We used road surveys in 2020 to estimate a density of 0.036 (95% CI = 0.018–0.058) golden eagles/km2 during the big game hunting season in our study area. Model output suggests that our non‐lead ammunition distribution program offset the fatality of 3.84 (95% CI = 1.06–23.72) eagles over the course of these 2 hunting seasons. Our work illustrates the potential usefulness of non‐lead ammunition distribution programs as an action to mitigate eagle fatalities caused by wind facilities or other anthropogenic causes of death.
The early peak knee abduction moment waveform is a novel risk factor predicting anterior cruciate ligament injury in young athletes: A prospective study
Authors: Sigurðsson Haraldur Björn , Fl Pétursdóttir Melkorka Katrín , Briem Kristín
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In this study, prospective data were used to evaluate whether the early peak knee abduction moment waveform is associated with the risk of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury.

Methods

Biomechanical data from 84 athletes who participated in the study as adolescents were analysed after cross‐referencing national health registry data to confirm ACL reconstruction in the subsequent years. The knee abduction moment waveform shape was obtained with cluster analysis for the first 100 ms of a cutting manoeuvre (1776 trials in total) and classified as either containing an early peak knee abduction moment or not, and the odds ratio for later ACL injury was then calculated. Additionally, discrete kinematic and kinetic variables were extracted, and tested against the risk of ACL injury using mixed model logistic regression.

Results

Of 84 athletes, 8 (all female) sustained a total of 13 ACL injuries in the years after motion analysis data collection. Six clusters of knee abduction moment waveform shapes were identified. Two clusters containing 446 trials were classified as an early peak knee abduction waveform. This waveform was associated with a 7.2‐fold increase in the risk of ACL injury (95% confidence interval: 2.4–24.6; p < 0.001). Of the kinematic and kinetic variables tested, only the knee abduction angle at initial contact was associated with an increased risk of ACL injury (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This is the first study to confirm the association between the early peak knee abduction moment waveform and the risk of ACL injury. Using waveforms, instead of discrete peak values of the knee abduction moment, may better represent risky movement patterns. Replicating these findings in a larger cohort will support the use of this method to screen athletes for risk and guide targeted preventive interventions and their efficacy.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Research on Pulse Current Cathodic Protection Technology for Long‐Distance Pipeline: A Review
Authors: Zhao Qiudie , Li Hongfu , Luo Xiaowu , Shi Yanjie , Li Jian , Wang Chen , Liu Yanming , Lv Xianghong
Published: September 2024

As an important infrastructure for oil and gas transportation, the safe and stable operation of long‐distance pipelines is significant for guaranteeing national energy security and economic development. However, pipelines are susceptible to corrosion due to various factors. Therefore, it is crucial to take effective corrosion protection measures. Pulse current cathodic protection technology, as an advanced pipeline corrosion protection technology, is superior to traditional cathodic protection technology. This paper mainly summarizes the research progress of pulse current cathodic protection technology for long‐distance pipelines in recent years. It briefly discusses the protection mechanism, characteristic parameters, challenges, and development trends of pulse current cathodic protection technology, which provides a useful reference for the further promotion and application of pulse current cathodic protection technology for long‐distance transport pipelines.
On the Impact of Cathodic Polarization on the Chloride Threshold of Carbon Steel in Alkaline Solutions
Authors: Fache Konstantin , Keßler Sylvia , Harnisch Jörg
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the influence of cathodic polarization on the chloride threshold (CT) for carbon steel in alkaline solutions, analogous to reinforcing steel embedded in concrete, with a focus on the electrochemical steel potential as a critical factor for corrosion initiation. The research, incorporating a literature review and potentiostatic tests, reveals that CT shows potential independence at potentials more anodic than −200 mVSCE and increases for potentials more cathodic than −200 mVSCE. The observed increase in CT under cathodic polarization is attributed to alterations in the passive layer composition, supporting the existence of distinct potential regions that govern the onset of corrosion.
Role of ACSL4 in modulating farnesoid X receptor expression and M2 macrophage polarization in HBV‐induced hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Chen Wenbiao , Xu Huixuan , Guo Liliangzi , Zheng Fengping , Yao Jun , Wang Lisheng
Published: September 2024

The intricate relationship between bile acid (BA) metabolism, M2 macrophage polarization, and hepatitis B virus‐hepatocellular carcinoma (HBV‐HCC) necessitates a thorough investigation of ACSL4's (acyl‐CoA synthetase long‐chain family member 4) role. This study combines advanced bioinformatics and experimental methods to elucidate ACSL4's significance in HBV‐HCC development. Using bioinformatics, we identified differentially expressed genes in HBV‐HCC. STRING and gene set enrichment analysis analyses were employed to pinpoint critical genes and pathways. Immunoinfiltration analysis, along with in vitro and in vivo experiments, assessed M2 macrophage polarization and related factors. ACSL4 emerged as a pivotal gene influencing HBV‐HCC. In HBV‐HCC liver tissues, ACSL4 exhibited upregulation, along with increased levels of M2 macrophage markers and BA. Silencing ACSL4 led to heightened farnesoid X receptor (FXR) expression, reduced BA levels, and hindered M2 macrophage polarization, thereby improving HBV‐HCC conditions. This study underscores ACSL4's significant role in HBV‐HCC progression. ACSL4 modulates BA‐mediated M2 macrophage polarization and FXR expression, shedding light on potential therapeutic targets and novel insights into HBV‐HCC pathogenesis.
Analysis of the Haematological Phenotype and Molecular Characteristics of Rare Abnormal Haemoglobin
Authors: Ge Yanfen , Zheng Guansheng , Xian Luhua , Luo Yanfei , Liu Junru , Lin Ting , Cui Wenhao , Yang Yujing , Shan Huizhuang
Published: September 2024

Background

Haemoglobinopathy refers to a group of common monogenic inherited conditions associated with variations in the haemoglobin molecule; however, there is relatively limited reporting on abnormal haemoglobinopathy in the Chinese population, especially rare abnormal haemoglobin (Hb). The aim of this study was to explore the clinical characteristics of haemoglobinopathy to supplement data for the epidemiological investigation of Hb variants in Guangdong province of China.

Methods

Peripheral blood was collected from five patients (including a family) for Complete blood count, Hb electrophoresis, High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis and degenerative globin body testing. Hb variants were further analysed by PCR and DNA sequencing.

Results

The research subjects were diagnosed with different types of abnormal Hb. The blood routine of the Hb Fukuyama (HBB:c.232C>T) diagnosed individual showed microcytic hypochromic anaemia, with a lower Hb level (64 g/L), mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of 71.5 fL and mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) of 21.5 pg. Individuals diagnosed with Hb Port Phillip (HBA2:c.275T>C) exhibit a MCH level that is slightly below average, at 26.4 pg. The Hb Saint Etienne (HBB:c.279C>G) diagnosed individual showed macrocytic hypochromic anaemia, and the proband had a low Hb level (116 g/L), MCV of 102.2 fL and MCH of 29.4 pg.

Conclusion

We confirmed the presence of Hb Fukuyama (HBB:c.232C>T) in China for the first time. Three rare patients with the Hb Saint Etienne (HBB:c.279C>G) phenotype and one patient with Hb Port Phillip (HBA2:c.275T>C) phenotype were included. Our research enriches the gene mutation map of haemoglobinopathy in Guangdong province and improves the detection system of haemoglobinopathy for population prevention and eugenics.
Potential Trypanocidal Activity of Glycerol Analogues
Authors: Humann R. A. , Smith T. K.
Published: September 2024

Glycerol, a versatile and ubiquitous compound, plays a vital role in a plethora of metabolic pathways in both prokaryotes and eukarotyes. Relatively few glycerol analogues have previously been explored for their use as glycerol kinase inhibitors, in addition to their therapeutic potential, however their use as (pro)‐drugs in the context of parasitic diseases such as trypanosomiasis is unreported. The literature on glycerol metabolism and particular its synergic anti‐profilation behaviour with salicylhydroxamic acid (SHAM) in Trypanosoma brucei is extensive. However, utiliation of glycerol analogues has not been explored as possible superior combinatory compounds. This report describes the synthesis of various glycerol analogues and their subsequent biochemical pheotypic analysis for their effect on lipid metabolism and their possible synergic activity with SHAM on Trypanosoma brucei. The glycerol analogues caused morphological changes;, including detached flagella, cytokinesis defects and ‘big‐eye’ phenotype. All four compounds either matched or marginally increased the toxicity of SHAM when used in combination against Trypanosoma brucei. However, the compounds exhibited mostly an antagonistic relationship with SHAM rather than synergistic. This research highlights the potential of small molecule glycerol analogues for their combination use with SHAM for the treatment of parasitic disease, such as trypanosomiasis.
Evaluation of fibroblast activation protein‐specific PET/CT in a patient with post‐COVID pneumonitis
Authors: Musameh Khaled , O'Brien Shane , Mehboob Roshane , Butler Thomas , Cunningham Zara , Buckley Carol , Atzinger Armin , Kuwert Torsten , Mitchell Patrick , Donnelly Seamas C.
Published: September 2024

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) often leads to a spectrum of pulmonary complications, including interstitial lung disease (ILD) with the potential for fibrotic sequelae. Assessing the presence of ongoing active inflammation versus established residual fibrosis as a result of lung parenchymal injury and repair in these patients is a clinical challenge. Better understanding of the disease process is crucial for guiding appropriate therapeutic strategies. We aim to investigate the use of positron emission tomography / computer tomography (PET/CT) scans and their role in diagnosing interstitial pneumonitis (IP) post COVID infections.
Preparation of Au/α‐Fe2O3 Electrode for the Detection of Dopamine
Authors: Guanling Liu , Wu Ren‐Jang , Fegade Umesh , Patil Nilima , Jethave Ganesh , Altalhi Tariq
Published: September 2024

In this study, Au/α‐Fe2O3 sensing material was synthesized and used as the working electrode for dopamine sensing. The Au/α‐Fe2O3 composites were prepared with various loadings (0.5 %, 1 %, and 3 %) to enhance their sensing properties. All three composites were tested for dopamine sensing, with 1 % Au/α‐Fe2O3 showing the best response. The Au/α‐Fe2O3 composites were characterized using XRD, TEM, and SEM to confirm successful doping of Au on the iron oxide surface. The CV plot obtained by plotting Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) vs. dopamine (DA) was linear (R2=0.9872) for DA concentrations ranging from 6.25 μM–200 μM on 1 % Au/α‐Fe2O3. Similarly, the DPV plot between DPV vs. DA was linear (R2=0.9895) for the same DA concentration range on 1 % Au/α‐Fe2O3, with a detection limit of 0.19 μM. Interference and stability experiments were conducted with dopamine (DA), ascorbic acid (AA), and uric acid (UA). The results showed that DA sensing was not affected by the other two substances for up to 14 days. The signal results indicated that the current intensity remained at 90.75 % of the original, proving that this material has good stability.
An Overview of Hydrogen Production from Renewable Sources and Its Main Applications
Authors: Lima Thiago M. , Lima Carolina G. S. , da Costa Madriaga Vinicius G. , Vasconcelos Sancler C. , Quatrocciochi Daniel G. , Ferreira Patricia G. , de C. da Silva Fernando , da S. M. Forezi Luana , Ferreira Vitor F.
Published: September 2024

There is a misconception that sustainability is only related to greenhouse gas emissions into the atmosphere, and that this is the only risk to which the planet is exposed. Sustainability is a multidimensional concept and must advance simoutaneously on several fronts, such as the urgent need to increase energy, clean water, clean air, food, mobility, health, and poverty reduction. All the problems of these multi‐dimensions are aggravated by the continuous growth of the world population, mainly in economic and socio‐environmental issues. However, the biggest challenge is to increase the supply of clean energy from renewable sources, as all other dimensions of sustainability depend on energy supply and policy decisions. The consumption of fossil fuels has supplied the current energy demand by approximately 87 %. Still, there are predictions of depletion, and the effects caused on the environment by the production of greenhouse gases bring significant economic losses. In this review, we will address the most common methods for hydrogen production, as well as its main technological applications in organic synthesis and for energy generation.
Free‐Standing Si@C/CNFs Prepared by Simple Electrospinning as a Stable Anode for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Yongqi , Yang Peichen , Jia Zhanyi , Sun Yu , Xia Jing , Tran Dai Lam , Yang Yijun , Xu Yong , Wang Xi , Yang Yongan
Published: September 2024

The development of free‐standing and foldable electrodes with excellent electrochemical performance is paramount for flexible electronic devices. However, the silicon‐based free‐standing anodes lack a straightforward preparation process. Herein, we successfully designed a hierarchical Si@C/CNFs composite material by combining hydrothermal and electrospinning techniques, in which the carbon‐coated silicon (Si@C) is served as the primary nanostructure and carbon nanofibers (CNFs) from electrospinning are maintained as the network matrix, resulting in a free‐standing anode. Owing to the amorphous carbon coating on Si nanoparticles and the formation of a 3D network structure of CNFs, which tightly encases the primary Si@C nanostructure, the Si@C/CNFs electrode demonstrates exceptional conductivity and flexibility. This dual carbon‐layer structure further enhances kinetics and mitigates the volume expansion of Si nanoparticles. The Si@C/CNFs electrode exhibits a high specific capacity (1573 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1), exceptional rate capability, and excellent cycling stability (78.5 % capacity retention after 100 cycles). Thus, Si@C/CNFs can be a promising material for the anode electrode in flexible lithium‐ion batteries.
Hydroxylamine‐O‐Sulfonic Acid (HOSA): A Recent Synthetic Overview
Authors: Kumar Puneet , Divedi Ashirwad , Chandra Dinesh , Ranjan De Saroj , Jat Jawahar L.
Published: September 2024

Hydroxylamine‐O‐sulfonic acid has been used as a versatile nitrogen source in synthetic organic chemistry. It has dual function and utilized both as a nucleophile and an electrophile during different synthetic transformations. This reagent is stable and easy to handle in both aqueous and organic solvents. It can be used with different functional groups under mild reaction conditions, making its widely applicable for constructing complex molecules. It has been utilized for various applications such as agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and polymer industries in the formation of S−N, C−N, O−N, and N−N bonds, as well as for efficient cyclization reactions under metal‐free conditions with excellent stereo– and regioselectivity. The present review provides a brief overview of all the advancements made in the past two decades using hydroxylamine‐O‐sulfonic acid as a nitrogen source.
Microfluidic Platform for Semiconductor and MOF Integrated Photocatalysts: A Review over Synthesis Approaches and Applications
Authors: Nikseresht Mehrazin , Sohrabi Somayeh , Zhang Jianyong , Iranshahi Davood , Moraveji Mostafa Keshavarz
Published: September 2024

The synergy of integrating semiconductors and MOF photocatalysts is the chief motive for this review paper. This merit has been combined with the microfluidic platforms, which are the cutting‐edge technology of synthesis. The microfluidic synthesis of semiconductors and MOF photocatalysts are categorized according to morphology and linker, respectively. Enhancing the effectiveness of photocatalysis comes along with adding a proper amount of electron acceptor or hole scavenger, combing electrochemical with photocatalytic degradation, and optimizing the photocatalyst band gap. Moreover, approaches for improving photocatalytic activity of MOFs can be classified as functionalization of organic linkers/metal centers, sensitization, incorporation of nanoparticles, and hybridization with semiconductors. Finally, the current applications of microfluidic devices, from the detection of water quality parameters to the elimination of water contaminants, have been addressed.
Green Synthesis of Mn‐Doped ZnO Nanoparticles Using Ipomoea Staphylina Leaf Extract: Characterization and Application of Photocatalytic Dye Degradation, Antibacterial and Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Govindasamy Kanniyappan , Senthilkumar Srinivasan
Published: September 2024

Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and manganese‐doped zinc oxide nanoparticles (Mn‐ZnO NPs) were synthesized via a cost‐effective green combustion method employing watery leaf extracts from Ipomoea Staphylina. The nanoparticles were thoroughly characterized using FT‐IR, P‐XRD, UV‐DRS, and FE‐SEM with EDX techniques. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirmed the successful doping of Mn in ZnO NPs. Evaluation of photocatalytic efficiency revealed that ZnO NPs degraded 76 % of Congo red dye (CR), while Mn‐doped ZnO NPs exhibited a higher degradation efficiency of 92 %. The photocatalytic performance of Mn‐doped ZnO NPs surpassed that of ZnO NPs, indicating their superior photocatalytic properties. Furthermore, both ZnO and Mn‐doped ZnO NPs displayed notable antimicrobial activity against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumonia. Additionally, Mn‐doped ZnO NPs exhibited significant antioxidant activity, demonstrated by their ability to scavenge 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH⋅) free radicals. These findings suggest that biosynthesized pure and doped NPs using plant extract can be promising candidates for antibacterial and antioxidant applications in biomedical, pharmaceutical, and wastewater treatment fields.
Exploring Chroman‐4‐One Derivatives as MAO‐B Inhibitors: A Comprehensive Computational Study
Authors: Jose Jisna , Varughese Jibin K , Ali Nemat , AlAsmari Abdullah F , Malik Abdul , Mathew Thomas V
Published: September 2024

The enzyme monoamine oxidase‐B (MAO‐B) significantly affects the neurotransmitter's metabolism, including norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin. Alzheimer's disease is the result of the dysregulation of MAO‐B activity, which is also attached to another neurological disorder, that is, Parkinson's disease. The MAO‐B antagonists are now seen as potential therapeutics for these conditions. A promising approach for improving the effectiveness of novel MAO inhibitors is using chromanone scaffolds. In this work, we used a multimodal computational approach to assess the inhibitory effects of chroman‐4‐one derivatives on MAO‐B. The study utilized molecular docking methodologies to investigate and evaluate the intricate binding interactions between MAO‐B and chroman‐4‐one derivatives. Moreover, the ADME study provided insightful information about the pharmacokinetic characteristics of chroman‐4‐one derivatives. The analysis of the temporal stability and dynamic behavior of ligand‐protein interactions has benefited from the application of MD simulations. To determine the binding free energies and gain a deeper comprehension of the binding affinity between chroman‐4‐one derivatives and MAO‐B, MM‐PBSA calculations were also performed. This study offers valuable information about logical design and the optimization of MAO‐B antagonists and highlights the potential of computational techniques in speeding up the drug discovery process.
Computational Design, Chemical Synthesis, and Bioevaluation of Pyrimidinyl‐Indoles for Targeting Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Parameswaran Preethi , Contractor Darshan , Kalmegh Vaishnavi , Chaudhary Bharatkumar , Kapoor Saumya , Sharma Satyasheel , Jain Alok , Shard Amit
Published: September 2024

Cancer is a global health challenge, despite significant advancements in research. Addressing this issue, we report the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of pyrimidinyl indoles as potential antineoplastic agents. Pyrimidinyl indoles interact with pyruvate kinase isoform M2 (PKM2), which is commonly overexpressed in oral, lung, breast and colorectal cancers. In silico studies indicated that these molecules are having affinity towards PKM2 and targeting key residues such as Phe26, Leu27, Tyr390, Gln393, Leu394 and Glu397 at the interfacial active site region between the two chains of PKM2. Thereafter compounds were designed, synthesized and characterized using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), infrared spectroscopy (IR) and mass spectrometry (MS). This was followed by in vitro screening using cell lines and enzyme‐coupled assays. One of the designed PKM2 inhibitor demonstrated potent anticancer activity against MCF‐7 (Breast Cancer) cells while sparing normal MCF‐10 A breast cells. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulation studies showed that the developed inhibitor stabilized the PKM2 active site over a 100 ns simulation.
A Biophysical Study of Molecular Interaction of Tucatinib with Bovine Serum Albumin
Authors: Jalan Ankita , Moyon N. Shaemningwar
Published: September 2024

A profound understanding of the binding dynamics of drugs with plasma proteins is highly important as it determines its therapeutical potential. Herein, we have investigated the molecular interaction of Tucatinib (TUC), a novel, primitive and highly selective drug for treatment of HER2+ advanced unresectable breast cancer, with bovine serum albumin (BSA) using multi‐pronged spectroscopic techniques and molecular docking. TUC considerably quenched the intrinsic fluorescence of BSA via static quenching mechanism, and it binds to the hydrophobic cleft of subdomain IIA of BSA with a moderate binding affinity. The thermodynamic analysis revealed the major interplay of van der Waals forces and hydrogen bonding interactions in stabilising the binding. The Förster distance ‘r’ signifies feasible energy transfer between BSA and TUC. The conformational analyses indicate some alterations in the protein secondary structure as a consequence of some changes in the protein polar environment due to complex formation. The experimental results are supported by docking analyses.
Odd‐Even Law Mediated Supramolecular Chirality of Luminescent Dipeptides for Chiroptical Energy Transfer
Authors: Wang Zhuoer , Lu Jiahui , Hao Aiyou , Xing Pengyao
Published: September 2024

Inherent luminescent short peptides essentially provide opportunities to rationally manipulate supramolecular chirality and chiral luminescence. Herein, a facile protocol to construct a series of naphthalimide‐appended dipeptides is reported that show ultrasound wave‐activated supramolecular chirality regulated by odd‐even law. Naphthalimide luminophores are conjugated to the dipeptide skeleton with variable alkyl spacers. The presence of tyrosine interferes the kinetic aggregation into achiral nanoparticles without chirality transfer to supramolecular scale. However, ultrasound treatment initiates the nanoparticle‐to‐helix transition accompanied with the appeared chiral optics, including Cotton effect and circularly polarized luminescence (CPL). The supramolecular chiral parameters, including handedness of helices and chiroptical behaviors, follow the odd‐even law of alkyl spacers in dipeptides bearing non‐substituted naphthalimides. The amine‐substitution boosted the quantum yields of dipeptide whereas no odd‐even effect. The two types of dipeptides constituted ideal energy transfer pairs that enable the efficient energy transfer as well as the transportation of odd‐even law to dipeptides containing substituted naphthalimides. This work sheds light on the construction of luminescent dipeptides with applications in precise control over chirality transportation and chiral luminescence.
Regulation of PPy Growth States by Employing Porous Organic Polymers to Obtain Excellent Microwave Absorption Performance
Authors: Zhang Liwen , Du Jiawei , Tang Peng , Zhao Xueying , Hu Chuangwei , Dong Yu , Zhang Xuyang , Liu Nana , Wang Bo , Peng Ruihui , Zhang Yaohong , Wu Guohua
Published: September 2024

Regulating the different growth states of polypyrrole (PPy) is a key strategy for obtaining PPy composites with high electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorption properties. This work finds that the growth states of PPy is regulated by controlling the amount of pyrrole added during the preparation of composites, so as to regulate the development of conductive networks to obtain excellent EMW absorption performance. The POP/PPy‐200 composite achieves an effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of 6.24 GHz (11.76–18.00 GHz) at a thickness of only 2.34 mm, covering 100% of the Ku band. The minimum reflection loss of −73.05 dB can be demonstrated at a thickness of only 2.29 mm, while at the same time showing an EAB of 5.96 GHz to meet the requirements of “thin”, “light”, “wide”, and “strong”. Such excellent EMW absorption performance is attributed to the conductive loss caused by the regulation of the growth states of PPy and the polarization loss caused by the heterostructure. This work also addresses the key challenge that porous organic polymers (POPs) cannot be applied to EMW absorption due to poor conductivity and providing new insights into the candidates for EMW absorbing materials.
Accelerated Exosomal Metabolic Profiling Enabled by Robust On‐Target Array Sintering with Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: Wu Yun , Qiao Yiming , Yang Chenyu , Chen Yueying , Shen Xizhong , Deng Chunhui , Yao Qunyan , Sun Nianrong
Published: September 2024

Pancreatic cancer is highly lethal, and survival chances improve only with early detection at a precancerous stage. However, there remains a significant gap in developing tools for large‐scale, rapid screening. To this end, a high‐throughput On‐Target Array Extraction Platform (OTAEP) by direct sintering of a series of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for dual in situ extraction, encompassing both exosomes and their metabolic profiles, is developed. Based on the principle of geometry‐dependent photothermal conversion efficiency and standard testing, the appropriate MOF functional unit is identified. This unit enables exosome enrichment within 10 min and metabolic fingerprint extraction in under 1 s of laser irradiation, with over five reuse. To further accelerate and enhance the quality of metabolic profile analysis, the application of Surrogate Variable Analysis to eliminate hidden confounding factors within the profiles is proposed, and five biomarkers demonstrated by MS/MS experiments are identified. These biomarkers enable early diagnosis, risk stratification, and staging of pancreatic cancer simultaneously, with sensitivity of 94.1%, specificity of 98.8%, and precision of 94.9%. This work represents a breakthrough for overcoming throughput challenges in large‐scale testing and for addressing confounding factors in big data analysis.
Illuminating the richness of the ascidian fossil record: a new exceptionally diverse assemblage of ascidian spicules from the Middle Miocene of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Łukowiak Magdalena , Mandic Oleg , Omalecka Anna , Kallanxhi Mădălina‐Elena , Ćorić Stjepan , Grunert Patrick
Published: September 2024

Ascidians, or sea squirts, are sac‐like sessile tunicates commonly found in modern seas. Although the oldest ascidians, or at least ascidian‐like tunicates, are mid‐Cambrian in age, the quality of the ascidian fossil record is extraordinarily poor. It mostly consists of isolated finds or low‐diversity assemblages, often represented by mineral spicules. Our study reports the world's most diverse assemblage of ascidian spicules, originating from the Middle Miocene Bogutovo Selo near Ugljevik, Bosnia and Herzegovina. This material includes 31 spicule types, with four assignable to species (Lissoclinum cf. perforatum, Polysyncraton cf. bilobatum, Didemnum cf. vexillum and D. cf. leopardi) and 10 to genera, all belonging to aplousobranchiate ascidians. Comparing our findings with those of two other studies that use modern biological nomenclature, our assemblage shows a closer resemblance to the distant Eocene Australian assemblage than to the Miocene ascidians from Eastern Paratethys. This suggests the persistence of a once‐homogeneous and widely distributed Eocene fauna into the Miocene, while the Eastern Paratethyan basin developed an endemic fauna after the isolation of Eastern Paratethys from the open sea. Some taxa of our assemblage currently inhabit the Mediterranean Sea. The discovery of one species in distant South African waters suggests that tectonic and environmental changes during the Late Miocene, including the closure of the Gibraltar Strait and prior disconnection from the Indian Ocean, may have limited its survival to remote refugia. The study underscores the importance of including spicules in reconstructing ascidian faunas in the geological past, an area that has been surprisingly understudied.