bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Musculoskeletal phenotypes in 3q29 deletion syndrome
Authors: Pollak Rebecca M. , Tilmon Jacob C. , Murphy Melissa M. , Gambello Michael J. , Sanchez Russo Rossana , Dormans John P. , Mulle Jennifer G.
Published: September 2023

3q29 deletion syndrome (3q29del) is a rare genomic disorder caused by a 1.6 Mb deletion (hg19, chr3:195725000–197350000). 3q29del is associated with neurodevelopmental and psychiatric phenotypes, including an astonishing >40‐fold increased risk for schizophrenia, but medical phenotypes are less well‐described. We used the online 3q29 registry of 206 individuals (3q29deletion.org) to recruit 57 individuals with 3q29del (56.14% male) and requested information about musculoskeletal phenotypes with a custom questionnaire. 85.96% of participants with 3q29del reported at least one musculoskeletal phenotype. Congenital anomalies were most common (70.18%), with pes planus (40.35%), pectus excavatum (22.81%), and pectus carinatum (5.26%) significantly elevated relative to the pediatric general population. 49.12% of participants reported fatigue after 30 min or less of activity. Bone fractures (8.77%) were significantly elevated relative to the pediatric general population. Participants commonly report receiving medical care for musculoskeletal complaints (71.93%), indicating that these phenotypes impact quality of life for individuals with 3q29del. This is the most comprehensive description of musculoskeletal phenotypes in 3q29del to date, suggests ideas for clinical evaluation, and expands our understanding of the phenotypic spectrum of this syndrome.
The potential clinical value of plasma biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Blennow Kaj , Galasko Douglas , Perneczky Robert , Quevenco Frances‐Catherine , van der Flier Wiesje M. , Akinwonmi Akin , Carboni Margherita , Jethwa Alexander , Suridjan Ivonne , Zetterberg Henrik
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

Many people with cognitive complaints or impairment never receive an accurate diagnosis of the underlying condition, potentially impacting their access to appropriate treatment. To address this unmet need, plasma biomarker tests are being developed for use in Alzheimer's disease (AD). Plasma biomarker tests span various stages of development, including in vitro diagnostic devices (or tests) (IVDs), laboratory‐developed tests (LDTs) and research use only devices (or tests) (RUOs). Understanding the differences between each test type is important for appropriate implementation into the AD diagnostic pathway and care continuum.

METHODS

Authors reviewed scientific literature (PubMed, meeting abstracts and presentations, company press releases and websites) on AD plasma biomarkers.

RESULTS

This article defines IVDs, LDTs, and RUOs, discusses potential clinical applications and highlights the steps necessary for their clinical implementation.

DISCUSSION

Plasma biomarkers could revolutionize many areas of the AD diagnostic pathway and care continuum, but further research is needed.

HIGHLIGHTS

There is a need for a minimally invasive Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnostic tool.

AD plasma biomarker tests exist at various stages of commercial development.

Understanding the development stage of a test is important for its appropriate use.

Plasma biomarker tests could function as a triage tool to streamline AD diagnosis.

Further steps remain before AD plasma biomarkers can be used routinely.
Lithium Bis(oxalate)borate Additive for Self‐repairing Zincophilic Solid Electrolyte Interphases towards Ultrahigh‐rate and Ultra‐stable Zinc Anodes
Authors: Zhang Zhaoyu , Zhang Yufei , Ye Minghui , Wen Zhipeng , Tang Yongchao , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Cheng Chao
Published: September 2023

The artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays a pivotal role in Zn anode stabilization but its long‐term effectiveness at high rates is still challenged. Herein, to achieve superior long‐life and high‐rate Zn anode, an exquisite electrolyte additive, lithium bis(oxalate)borate (LiBOB), is proposed to in situ derive a highly Zn2+‐conductive SEI and to dynamically patrol its cycling‐initiated defects. Profiting from the as‐constructed real‐time, automatic SEI repairing mechanism, the Zn anode can be cycled with distinct reversibility over 1800 h at an ultrahigh current density of 50 mA cm−2, presenting a record‐high cumulative capacity up to 45 Ah cm−2. The superiority of the formulated electrolyte is further demonstrated in the Zn||MnO2 and Zn||NaV3O8 full batteries, even when tested under harsh conditions (limited Zn supply (N/P≈3), 2500 cycles). This work brings inspiration for developing fast‐charging Zn batteries toward grid‐scale storage of renewable energy sources.
A Spatially Programmable DNA Nanorobot Arm to Modulate Anisotropic Gold Nanoparticle Assembly by Enzymatic Excision
Authors: Yang Jing , Liang Yuan , Li Xiang , Zhang Yongpeng , Qian Long , Ke Yonggang , Zhang Cheng
Published: September 2023

Programmable assembly of gold nanoparticle superstructures with precise spatial arrangement has drawn much attention for their unique characteristics in plasmonics and biomedicine. Bio‐inspired methods have already provided programmable, molecular approaches to direct AuNP assemblies using biopolymers. The existing methods, however, predominantly use DNA as scaffolds to directly guide the AuNP interactions to produce intended superstructures. New paradigms for regulating AuNP assembly will greatly enrich the toolbox for DNA‐directed AuNP manipulation and fabrication. Here, we developed a strategy of using a spatially programmable enzymatic nanorobot arm to modulate anisotropic DNA surface modifications and assembly of AuNPs. Through spatial controls of the proximity of the reactants, the locations of the modifications were precisely regulated. We demonstrated the control of the modifications on a single 15 nm AuNP, as well as on a rectangular DNA origami platform, to direct unique anisotropic AuNP assemblies. This method adds an alternative enzymatic manipulation to DNA‐directed AuNP superstructure assembly.
Supramolecular Subphthalocyanine Cage as Catalytic Container for the Functionalization of Fullerenes in Water
Authors: Salazar Ainhoa , Moreno‐Simoni Marta , Kumar Sunit , Labella Jorge , Torres Tomás , de la Torre Gema
Published: September 2023

Herein we report the first example of a supramolecular cage that works as a catalytic molecular reactor to perform transformations over fullerenes in aqueous medium. Taking advantage of the ability of metallo–organic Pd(II)‐subphthalocyanine (SubPc) capsules to form stable host:guest complexes with C60, we have prepared a water‐soluble cage that provides a hydrophobic environment for conducting cycloadditions over encapsulated C60, namely, Diels–Alder reactions with anthracene. Indeed, the presence of catalytic amounts of SubPc cage dissolved in water promotes co‐encapsulation of insoluble C60 and anthracene substrates, allowing the reaction to occur inside the cavity under mild conditions. The lower stability of the host:guest complex with the resulting C60 cycloadduct facilitates its displacement by pristine C60, which grants catalytic turnover. Moreover, bis‐addition compounds are regioselectively formed inside the cage when using excess anthracene.
The influences of diameter distribution change of zeolitic imidazolate framework‐67 crystal on electrochemical behavior for lithium‐sulfur cell cathode
Authors: Park Junhyung , Park Soo‐Jin , Kim Seok
Published: September 2023

To improve the electrochemical performance of Li‐S batteries, sulfur composites are prepared through sulfur's melt‐diffusion into porous materials such as metal organic frameworks (MOFs). MOFs are porous nanocrystalline materials consisting of metal ions and organic ligands. Due to their high porosity, specific surface area, and easily controllable porous structure, MOFs and their derivatives are considered useful materials for holding sulfur. Herein, the effect of the concentration of the reactants on the particle diameter distribution of ZIF‐67 is studied, and the performance of the product as a sulfur host for Li‐S battery cathode is evaluated. ZIF‐67 was prepared by regulating the Co2+ concentration in solution from 10 to 250 mM, with a constant mole ratio between Co2+ and the organic ligand. Cyclovoltammetry, galvanostatic charge–discharge, and rate capability tests were performed to electrochemically characterize each sample as a sulfur host for Li‐S battery cathodes. MeZ‐50 mM, prepared with 50 mM Co2+ ion solution, had the smallest particle diameter (591 nm). The sulfur cathode utilizing MeZ‐50 mM afforded the best electrochemical performance (883.7 mAh gS−1). This study demonstrates that the particle size of ZIF‐67 can be controlled by adjusting the reactant concentration, enabling manipulation of the electrochemical properties as a sulfur host.
Effect of microencapsulation flame retardant on flame retardancy and mechanical properties of rigid polyurethane foams
Authors: Peng Haoping , Li Jiaxin , Gu Yufei , Wu Changjun , Liu Ya , Zhao Yonggang , Su Xuping , Li Zhiwei
Published: September 2023

A microencapsulated flame retardant PMDOPO was synthesized by solution blending method using EGDMA as initiator and AIBN as cross‐linking agent. Rigid polyurethane foams were prepared in a one‐step process. PMDOPO was incorporated into the foams by blending with polycarbonate diols (PCDL) and foaming additives. The results of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed that PMDOPO was well formed and uniformly dispersed in the foam. The pore size and density of the foams first increased and then decreased with the addition of PMDOPO. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), vertical combustion test, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) showed that the PMDOPO content was directly proportional to the flame retardancy and the thermal stability. The major weight loss shifted to higher temperature intervals. The amount of residual char of RPUF/PMDOPO‐25 was enhanced 50 times to 10.63% compared to pure RPUF. In addition, SEM and Raman analyses of the combustion residual char revealed that a phosphorus‐containing char layer was formed during thermal degradation. The dense charcoal layer helps to insulate heat and suppress combustion. The universal testing machine showed that RPUF with 15 wt% content had the best compression resistance, with an enhancement of 1.8 MPa over pure RPUF.
Co‐axial electrospinning of liposomal propolis loaded gelatin‐zein fibers as a potential wound healing material
Authors: Karakas Canan Yagmur , Ustundag Cem Bulent , Sahin Ali , Karadag Ayse
Published: September 2023

In this study, propolis extract (PE) was first encapsulated in different liposomal formulations (65–370 nm) with high encapsulation efficiency (68%–93%). The liposomal PE was further embedded in a food‐grade gelatin‐zein core/shell fiber by using the co‐axial electrospinning method. Transmission electron and confocal laser scanning microscopy verified the structure of liposomes and their homogeneous dispersion in fibers. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images confirmed the smooth morphologies of core/shell liposomal fibers. The loading of PE in liposomal fibers improved both thermal (differential scanning calorimetry) and textural (elongation at break and tensile strength) properties, and the fibers loaded with more PE provided higher mucoadhesiveness. The PE‐loaded fiber showed higher antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The incorporation of liposomal PE in fiber enhanced the viability of human skin fibroblast (HFF‐1) cells. The adhesion of HFF‐1 cells on fiber was demonstrated by SEM, thus PE‐loaded liposomal fiber could provide an efficient platform for cell growth. The findings of this study proposed that propolis‐loaded liposomal hybrid fibers produced by the co‐axial method can be used as a potential wound healing material.
Evaluating AI‐powered text‐to‐image generators for anatomical illustration: A comparative study
Authors: Noel Geoffroy P. J. C.
Published: September 2023

Medical illustration, which involves the creation of visual representations of anatomy, has long been an essential tool for medical professionals and educators. The integration of AI and medical illustration has the potential to revolutionize the field of anatomy education, providing highly accurate, customizable images. The authors evaluated three AI‐powered text‐to‐image generators in producing anatomical illustrations of the human skulls, heart, and brain. The generators were assessed for their accurate depiction of foramina, suture lines, coronary arteries, aortic and pulmonary trunk branching, gyri, sulci, and the relationship between the cerebellum and temporal lobes. None of the generators produced illustrations with comprehensive anatomical details. Foramina, such as the mental and supraorbital foramina, were frequently omitted, and suture lines were inaccurately represented. The illustrations of the heart failed to indicate proper coronary artery origins, and the branching of the aorta and pulmonary trunk was often incorrect. Brain illustrations lacked accurate gyri and sulci depiction, and the relationship between the cerebellum and temporal lobes remained unclear. Although AI generators tended toward esoteric imagery, they exhibited significant speed and cost advantages over human illustrators. However, improving their accuracy necessitates augmenting the training databases with anatomically correct images. The study emphasizes the ongoing role of human medical illustrators, especially in ensuring the provision of accurate and accessible illustrations.
Chemiresistive Gas Sensing using Graphene‐Metal Oxide Hybrids
Authors: Hossain Mohammad Kamal , Hendi Abdulmajeed , Asim Nilofar , Alghoul Mohammad Ahmed , Rafiqul Islam Mohammad , Hussain Syed Muhammad Shakil
Published: September 2023

Chemiresistive sensing lies in its ability to provide fast, accurate, and reliable detection of various gases in a cost‐effective and non‐invasive manner. In this context, graphene‐functionalized metal oxides play crucial role in hydrogen gas sensing. However, a cost‐effective, defect‐free, and large production schemes of graphene‐based sensors are required for industrial applications. This review focuses on graphene‐functionalized metal oxide nanostructures designed for gaseous molecules detection, mainly hydrogen gas sensing applications. For the convenience of the reader and to understand the role of graphene‐metal oxide hybrids (GMOH) in gas sensing activities, a brief overview of the properties and synthesis routes of graphene and GMOH have been reported in this paper. Metal oxides play an essential role in the GMOH construct for hydrogen gas sensing. Therefore, various metal oxides‐decorated GMOH constructs are detailed in this review as gas sensing platforms, particularly for hydrogen detection. Finally, specific directions for future research works and challenges ahead in designing highly selective and sensitive hydrogen gas sensors have been highlighted. As illustrated in this review, understanding of the metal oxides‐decorated GMOH constructs is expected to guide ones in developing emerging hybrid nanomaterials that are suitable for hydrogen gas sensing applications.
Ir‐Catalyzed B(3)‐Amination of o‐Carboranes with Amines via Acceptorless Dehydrogenative BH/NH Cross‐Coupling
Authors: Ki Au Yik , Ma Qiangqiang , Zhang Jie , Xie Zuowei
Published: September 2023

An efficient and convenient strategy for Ir‐catalyzed selective B(3)‐amination of o‐carboranes with amines via acceptorless BH/NH dehydrocoupling was developed, affording a series of B(3)‐aminated‐o‐carboranes in moderate to high isolated yields with H2 gas as a sole by‐product. Such an oxidant‐free system endues the protocol sustainability, atom‐economy and environmental friendliness. A reaction mechanism via an Ir(I)‐Ir(III)‐Ir(I) catalytic cycle involving oxidative addition, dehydrogenation and reductive elimination was proposed.
Temperature‐Dependent Structures of Single‐Atom Catalysts
Authors: Chen Yuhui , Zhang Rui , Wang Hsiao‐Tsu , Lu Ying‐Rui , Huang Yu‐Cheng , Chuang Yu‐Chun , Wang Hua , Luo Jun , Han Lili
Published: September 2023

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have the unique coordination environment and electronic structure due to the quantum size effect, which plays an essential role in facilitating catalytic reactions. However, due to the limited understanding of the formation mechanism of single atoms, achieving the modulation of the local atomic structure of SACs is still difficult and challenging. Herein, we have prepared a series of Ni SACs loaded on nitrogen‐doped carbon substrates with different parameters using a dissolution‐and‐carbonization method to systematically investigate the effect of temperature on the structure of the SACs. The results of characterization and electrochemical measurements are analyzed to reveal the uniform law between temperature and the metal loading, bond length, coordination number, valence state and CO2 reduction performance, showing the feasibility of controlling the structure of SACs through temperature to regulate the catalytic performance. This is important for the understanding of catalytic reaction mechanisms and the design of efficient catalysts.
New Molecular Design, Step‐Saving Synthesis, and Applications of Indolocarbazole Core‐Based Oligo(hetero)arenes
Authors: Lin Li , Chiu Wei‐Hao , Cao Ming‐Ling , Lee Kun‐Mu , Yu Wei‐Lun , Liu Ching‐Yuan
Published: September 2023

In this work, we have successfully synthesized 15 new examples (LLA01‐06; LinLi01‐10) of small‐molecule hole‐transporting materials (HTM) using the less explored indolocarbazole (ICbz) as core moiety. Different from previously reported ICbz HTMs, LinLi01‐10 exhibit new molecular designs in which 3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT) units are inserted as crucial π‐spacers and fluorine atoms are introdcued into end‐group molecules. These substantially improve the materials solubility and device power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) while fabricated in perovskite solar cells (PSC). More importantly, LinLi01‐10 are generated by a sustainable synthetic approach involving the use of straightforward C−H/C−Br couplings as key transformations, thus avoiding additional synthetic transformations including halogenation and borylation reactions called substrate prefunctionalizations usually required in Suzuki reactions. Most HTM molecules can be purified simply by reprecipitations instead of conducting column chromatography. In contrast to LLA01‐06 without additional EDOT moieties, PSC devices using LinLi01‐10 as hole‐transport layers display promising PCEs of up to 17.5 %. Interestingly, PSC devices employing seven of the LinLi01‐10 as hole‐transport molecules, respectively, are all able to show an immediate >10 % PCE (t=0) without any device oxidation/aging process that is necessary for the commercial spiro‐OMeTAD based PSCs.
High definition transcranial direct current stimulation of the Cz improves social dysfunction in children with autism spectrum disorder: A randomized, sham, controlled study
Authors: Wang Yonglu , Wang Fei , Kong Yue , Gao Tianshu , Zhu Qingyao , Han Lu , Sun Bei , Guan Luyang , Zhang Ziyi , Qian Yuxin , Xu Lingxi , Li Yun , Fang Hui , Jiao Gongkai , Ke Xiaoyan
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the Cz of high‐definition 5‐channel tDCS (HD‐tDCS) on social function in 4–12 years‐old children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study was a randomized, double‐blind, pseudo‐controlled trial in which 45 ASD children were recruited and divided into three groups with sex, age, and rehabilitation treatment as control variables. Each group of 15 children with ASD was randomly administered active HD‐tDCS with the Cz as the central anode, active HD‐tDCS with the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (F3) as the central anode, and sham HD‐tDCS with the Cz as the central anode with 14 daily sessions in 3 weeks. The Social Responsiveness Scale Chinese Version (SRS‐Chinese Version) was compared 1 week after stimulation with values recorded 1 week prior to stimulation. At the end of treatment, both the anodal Cz and anodal left DLFPC tDCS decreased the measures of SRS‐Chinese Version. The total score of SRS‐Chinese Version decreased by 13.08%, social cognition decreased by 18.33%, and social communication decreased by 10.79%, which were significantly improved over the Cz central anode active stimulation group, especially in children with young age, and middle and low function. There was no significant change in the total score and subscale score of SRS‐Chinese Version over the Cz central anode sham stimulation group. In the F3 central anode active stimulation group, the total score of SRS‐Chinese Version decreased by 13%, autistic behavior decreased by 19.39%, and social communication decreased by 14.39%, which were all significantly improved. However, there was no significant difference in effect between the Cz and left DLPFC stimulation conditions. HD‐tDCS of the Cz central anode may be an effective treatment for social dysfunction in children with ASD.
A π‐Conjugated Porphyrin Complex as Cathode Material Allows Fast and Stable Energy Storage in Calcium Batteries
Authors: Smok Thomas , Shakouri Shirin , Abouzari‐Lotf Ebrahim , Pammer Frank , Diemant Thomas , Jana Saibal , Roy Ananyo , Xiu Yanlei , Klyatskaya Svetlana , Ruben Mario , Zhao‐Karger Zhirong , Fichtner Maximilian
Published: September 2023

Rechargeable calcium batteries (RCB) are prospective candidates for sustainable energy storage, as they hold the promise of the high energy density of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) while simultaneously combining it with highly abundant raw materials. However, for long time, calcium batteries have faced severe issues with regard to cycling stability, until recently developments demonstrated improved battery cycle life when employing CaSn alloy anodes with fluorinated alkoxyborate electrolytes. These findings opened up the possibility to study cathode materials for RCBs not only in a more comparable manner, but also in a practical full cell design. As representative of emerging organic electrode materials (OEMs), we investigated tetrakis(4‐pyridyl) porphyrin as both free ligand (H2TPyP) and in the form of its copper MOF complex (CuTPyP−MOF) as active cathode species in RCBs. The cells demonstrated high capacities and excellent cycling stability at the same time. Even at elevated current densities of e. g., 2000 mA/g the full cells delivered stable capacities of ~90 mAh/g proving its excellent rate capability. This study explores the electrochemical performance of porphyrin active materials in calcium batteries and represents a significant step forward in the progress toward organic electrodes for multivalent energy storage systems.
Ascorbic acid modulates immune responses through Jumonji‐C domain containing histone demethylases and Ten eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenase
Authors: Maity Jeet , Majumder Satyabrata , Pal Ranjana , Saha Bhaskar , Mukhopadhyay Prabir Kumar
Published: September 2023

Ascorbic acid is a redox regulator in many physiological processes. Besides its antioxidant activity, many intriguing functions of ascorbic acid in the expression of immunoregulatory genes have been suggested. Ascorbic acid acts as a co‐factor for the Fe+2‐containing α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent Jumonji‐C domain‐containing histone demethylases (JHDM) and Ten eleven translocation (TET) methylcytosine dioxygenasemediated epigenetic modulation. By influencing JHDM and TET, ascorbic acid facilitates the differentiation of double negative (CD4−CD8−) T cells to double positive (CD4+CD8+) T cells and of T‐helper cells to different effector subsets. Ascorbic acid modulates plasma cell differentiation and promotes early differentiation of hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to NK cells. These findings indicate that ascorbic acid plays a significant role in regulating both innate and adaptive immune cells, opening up new research areas in Immunonutrition. Being a water‐soluble vitamin and a safe micro‐nutrient, ascorbic acid can be used as an adjunct therapy for many disorders of the immune system.
Evolution of sex‐determination in dioecious plants: From active Y to X/A balance?
Authors: Kazama Yusuke , Kobayashi Taiki , Filatov Dmitry A.
Published: September 2023

Sex chromosomes in plants have been known for a century, but only recently have we begun to understand the mechanisms behind sex determination in dioecious plants. Here, we discuss evolution of sex determination, focusing on Silene latifolia, where evolution of separate sexes is consistent with the classic “two mutations” model—a loss of function male sterility mutation and a gain of function gynoecium suppression mutation, which turned an ancestral hermaphroditic population into separate males and females. Interestingly, the gynoecium suppression function in S. latifolia evolved via loss of function in at least two sex‐linked genes and works via gene dosage balance between sex‐linked, and autosomal genes. This system resembles X/A‐ratio‐based sex determination systems in Drosophila and Rumex, and could represent a steppingstone in the evolution of X/A‐ratio‐based sex determination from an active Y system.
Integrated continuous downstream process of monoclonal antibody developed by converting the batch platform process based on the process characterization
Authors: Konoike Fuminori , Taniguchi Masatoshi , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: September 2023

A continuous downstream process of monoclonal antibody was developed based on the process characterization. Periodic‐counter current chromatography (PCCC) with two protein A columns was used for the capture step. For low pH virus inactivation (VI), a batch reactor was employed, which can work as a surge (buffer) tank. Flow‐through chromatography (FTC) with two connected columns of different separation modes (anion‐mixed mode and cation exchange) was designed as a polish step. After 24 h PCCC run, the collected pool was processed for VI. After adjusting pH and electric conductivity, the solution was fed to the two connected FTC columns for 24 h. Virus filter was also connected to the exit of the connected‐column. PCCC and FTC were run in parallel. Six runs of different feed rates (0.5–10 L/day) and feed concentrations (1–3.2 g/L) were performed with protein A columns of 1–5 mL and FTC columns of 3–10 mL. The largest run (feed rate 10 L/day, feed concentration 2 g/L) was carried out at a GMP facility with 15 mL protein A columns and 100 mL FTC columns. Good recovery and purity values were obtained for all runs. The process was found to be flexible and stable for feed fluctuations. Only three surge or pool tanks were needed in addition to the final product pool tank.
Bioactive decellularized adipose matrix prepared using a rapid, nonchemical/enzymatic method for adipogenesis
Authors: Yang Jizhong , Tang Jiezhang , Dang Juanli , Rong Xiangke , Wang Kai , Zhang Zhaoxiang , Hou Mengmeng , Yu Zhou , Yi Chenggang
Published: September 2023

Recent developments in the field of regenerative surgeries and medical applications have led to a renewed interest in adipose tissue‐enriched mesenchymal stem cell scaffolds. Various advantages declared for the decellularized adipose matrix (DAM) have caused its extensive use in the transfer of stem cells or growth factors for soft tissue regeneration induction. Meanwhile, the long‐term application of detergents toward DAM regeneration has been assumed as a risky obstacle in this era. Herein, a rapid, mechanical protocol was developed to prepare DAM (M‐DAM) without chemicals/enzymes and was comprehensively compared with the ordinary DAM (traditional chemical method). Accordingly, this method could effectively hinder oils and cells, sustain the structural and biological elements, and contain a superior level of collagen content. In addition, more protein numbers, as well as higher basement membrane elements, glycoproteins, and extracellular matrix‐related proteins were detected in the regenerated M‐DAM. Also, superior adipogenesis and angiogenesis proteins were distinguished. The noncytotoxicity of the M‐DAM was also approved, and a natural ecological niche was observed for the proliferation and differentiation of stem cells, confirming its great potential for vascularization and adipogenesis in vivo. The suggested technique could effectively prepare the modified DAM in variant constructions of tablets, powders, emulsions, hydrogels, and different three‐dimensional‐printed structures. Hence, this rapid, mechanical process can produce bioactive DAM, which has the potential to be widely used in various research fields of regenerative medicine.
Investigation of the photovoltaic effect in dye‐sensitized solar cells based on poly(ethylene glycol)‐nanofiber electrolytes
Authors: Kim Mi‐Ra , Park Sung Soo , Han Jeonghye , Pham Thanh Chung , Kang Minkyung , Lee Songyi
Published: September 2023

In this study, the effectiveness of electrospun poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) nanofibers as polymer electrolytes for dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is evaluated. Regular PEG nanofibers are electrospun at an applied voltage of 15 kV, using a polymer concentration of 13 wt% and tip‐to‐collector distance of 20 cm. Subsequently, the photovoltaic effect in DSSCs containing PEG‐nanofiber electrolytes with different I2 concentrations is analyzed. On reducing the concentration of I2 in the PEG‐nanofiber electrolyte, the short‐circuit photocurrent density (Jsc) of the corresponding DSSC increases significantly. A high power‐conversion efficiency of 5.93% is recorded (by a solar simulator under AM 1.5 illumination) for a PEG‐nanofiber‐based DSSC containing an I2/tetrabuthylammonium iodide (TBAI) molar ratio of 0.25. Additionally, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy is used to analyze the charge‐transfer resistance of the TiO2/PEG‐nanofiber electrolyte interface in the fabricated DSSCs; the electrolyte uptake, ionic conductivity, and charge‐transfer resistance values are investigated as a function of the molar ratio of I2/TBAI.
The involvement of language‐associated networks, tracts, and cortical regions in frontotemporal dementia and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Structural and functional alterations
Authors: Tahedl Marlene , Tan Ee Ling , Chipika Rangariroyashe H. , Lope Jasmin , Hengeveld Jennifer C. , Doherty Mark A. , McLaughlin Russell L. , Hardiman Orla , Hutchinson Siobhan , McKenna Mary Clare , Bede Peter
Published: September 2023

Background

Language deficits are cardinal manifestations of some frontotemporal dementia (FTD) phenotypes and also increasingly recognized in sporadic and familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). They have considerable social and quality‐of‐life implications, and adaptive strategies are challenging to implement. While the neuropsychological profiles of ALS–FTD phenotypes are well characterized, the neuronal underpinnings of language deficits are less well studied.

Methods

A multiparametric, quantitative neuroimaging study was conducted to characterize the involvement of language‐associated networks, tracts, and cortical regions with a panel of structural, diffusivity, and functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) metrics. Seven study groups were evaluated along the ALS–FTD spectrum: healthy controls (HC), individuals with ALS without cognitive impairment (ALSnci), C9orf72‐negative ALS–FTD, C9orf72‐positive ALS–FTD, behavioral‐variant FTD (bvFTD), nonfluent variant primary progressive aphasia (nfvPPA), and semantic variant PPA (svPPA). The integrity of the Broca's area, Wernicke's area, frontal aslant tract (FAT), arcuate fascicle (AF), inferior occipitofrontal fascicle (IFO), inferior longitudinal fascicle (ILF), superior longitudinal fascicle (SLF), and uncinate fascicle (UF) was quantitatively evaluated. The functional connectivity (FC) between Broca's and Wernicke’ areas and FC along the FAT was also specifically assessed.

Results

Patients with nfvPPA and svPPA exhibit distinctive patterns of gray and white matter degeneration in language‐associated brain regions. Individuals with bvFTD exhibit Broca's area, right FAT, right IFO, and UF degeneration. The ALSnci group exhibits Broca's area atrophy and decreased FC along the FAT. Both ALS–FTD cohorts, irrespective of C9orf72 status, show bilateral FAT, AF, and IFO pathology. Interestingly, only C9orf72‐negative ALS–FTD patients exhibit bilateral uncinate and right ILF involvement, while C9orf72‐positive ALS–FTD patients do not.

Conclusions

Language‐associated tracts and networks are not only affected in language‐variant FTD phenotypes but also in ALS and bvFTD. Language domains should be routinely assessed in ALS irrespective of the genotype.
Assessing the sustainable development of firms: The moderating role of transformational leadership and firm size
Authors: Rehman Nabeel , Majeed Nauman , Javaid Muhammad Umair , Arooj Azhar
Published: September 2023

Due to escalating environmental problems and challenges, ensuring sustainable development (SD) has become a matter of concern for organizations worldwide at a precinct scale. This study aims to integrate the variables, which are antecedents of SD through direct and indirect paths. The managers as participants of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises have helped the researchers to explore the role of green knowledge management (GKM) and green dynamic capacity with the intervention of green innovation and competitive advantage in achieving SD. The results achieved through structural equation modeling revealed positive and significant direct and indirect relationships, however, the intervening role of green innovation and green competitive advantage between GKM and SD show insignificant results. Interestingly, we have also identified two significant moderators as a part of this study: large firm size and transformational leadership. This research has important implications and significant contributions to theory and practice. It can be considered innovative by using a range of antecedents in an integrated way, proposing and testing a theoretical model of SD in a developing country Pakistan, which is affirmed and committed to achieving SDGs by the year 2030.
Sound conditioning strategy promoting paracellular permeability of the blood‐labyrinth‐barrier benefits inner ear drug delivery
Authors: Wang Xueling , Gu Jiayi , Xu Ke , Xu Baoying , Yu Dehong , Wu Hao
Published: September 2023

The therapeutic effects of pharmaceuticals depend on their drug concentrations in the cochlea. Efficient drug delivery from the systemic circulation into the inner ear is limited by the blood‐labyrinth‐barrier (BLB). This study investigated a novel noninvasive sound conditioning (SC) strategy (90 dB SPL, 8–16 kHz, 2 h sound exposure) to temporally enhance BLB permeability in a controllable way, contributing to maximizing the penetration of pharmaceuticals from blood circulation into the cochlea. Trafficking of Fluorescein Isothiocyanate conjugated dextran and bovine serum albumin (FITC‐dextran and FITC‐BSA) demonstrated that paracellular leakage of BLB sustained for 6 h after SC, providing a controllable time window for systemic administration. Cochlear concentrations of dexamethasone (DEX) and dexamethasone phosphate (DEX‐P), respectively transported by transcellular and paracellular pathways, showed a higher content of the latter one after SC, further confirming the key role of paracellular pathway in the SC‐induced hyperpermeability. Results of high‐throughput RNA‐sequencing identified a series of tight junction (TJ)‐associated genes after SC. The expressions of TJ (ZO‐1) were reduced and irregular rearrangements of the junction were observed by transmission electron microscopy after SC. We further determined the inhibiting role of Rab13 in the recruitment of ZO‐1 and later in the regulation of cellular permeability. Meanwhile, no significant change in the quantifications of endothelial caveolae vesicles after SC indicated that cellular transcytosis accounted little for the temporary hyperpermeability after SC. Based on these results, SC enhances the BLB permeability within 6 h and allows systemically applied drugs which tend to be transported by paracellular pathway to readily enter the inner ear, contributing to guiding the clinical medications on hearing loss.
Genome‐wide methylation profiling of diagnostic tumor specimens identified DNA methylation markers associated with metastasis among men with untreated localized prostate cancer
Authors: Chao Chun R. , Slezak Jeff , Siegmund Kimberly , Cannavale Kimberly , Shu Yu‐Hsiang , Chien Gary W. , Chen Xu‐Feng , Shi Feng , Song Nan , Van Den Eeden Stephen K. , Huang Jiaoti
Published: September 2023

Background

We used a genome‐wide discovery approach to identify methylation markers associated with metastasis in men with localized prostate cancer (PCa), as better identification of those at high risk of metastasis can inform treatment decision‐making.

Methods

We identified men with localized PCa at Kaiser Permanente California (January 1, 1997–December 31, 2006) who did not receive curative treatment and followed them for 10 years to determine metastasis status. Cases were chart review‐confirmed metastasis, and controls were matched using density sampling. We extracted DNA from the cancerous areas in the archived diagnostic tissue blocks. We used Illumina's Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip for methylation interrogation. We used conditional logistic regression and Bonferroni's correction to identify methylation markers associated with metastasis. In a separate validation cohort (2007), we evaluated the added predictive utility of the methylation score beyond clinical risk score.

Results

Among 215 cases and 404 controls, 31 CpG sites were significantly associated with metastasis status. Adding the methylation score to the clinical risk score did not meaningfully improve the c‐statistic (0.80–0.81) in the validation cohort, though the score itself was statistically significant (p < 0.01). In the validation cohort, both clinical risk score alone and methylation marker score alone are well calibrated for predicted 10‐year metastasis risks. Adding the methylation score to the clinical risk score only marginally improved predictive risk calibration.

Conclusion

Our findings do not support the use of these markers to improve clinical risk prediction. The methylation markers identified may inform novel hypothesis in the roles of these genetic regions in metastasis development.
ELOA promotes tumor growth and metastasis by activating RBP1 in gastric cancer
Authors: Tian Lu , Gong Liang , Hao Chu , Feng Yuyang , Yao Surui , Fei Bojian , Wang Xue , Huang Zhaohui
Published: September 2023

Background

Elongin A (ELOA), our previous work revealed, serves as a novel tumor suppressor in colorectal cancer. However, the function and mechanism of ELOA in other cancer types, including gastric cancer (GC), remain to be elucidated.

Methods

The expression of ELOA was measured by quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction and western blot. The effects of ELOA on GC growth and metastasis were assessed through a series of in‐vitro and in‐vivo assays. Furthermore, the potential mechanism of ELOA was revealed by RNA sequencing, dual luciferase reporter assay, chromatin immunoprecipitation, and rescue experiments in GC.

Results

We uncovered increased expression of ELOA in GC tissues compared with paired normal tissues via bioinformatic analyses and our sample detection. Enhanced ELOA expression in GC tissues was obviously correlated with poor tumor differentiation, lymph node metastasis, advanced tumor stage, and a poor prognosis. A series of functional experiments showed that ELOA promoted the proliferation and metastasis of GC. Mechanistically, we revealed that the decreased levels of miR‐490‐3p caused the upregulation of ELOA in GC. Both RNA‐seq and ChIP assays revealed that ELOA transcriptionally activated retinol‐binding protein 1 (RBP1) by binding to its promotor. Furthermore, specific knockdown of RBP1 reduced the tumor‐promoting ability of ELOA in GC cells.

Conclusions

In summary, our findings demonstrate that ELOA exerts oncogenic properties by activating RBP1 expression, providing the basis for a promising therapeutic target in GC.
Chromatographic and Biological Screening of Chosen Species of Schisandraceae Family: Schisandra chinensis, S. rubriflora, S. sphenanthera, S. henryi and Kadsura japonica
Authors: Sobstyl Ewelina , Szopa Agnieszka , Olszowy‐Tomczyk Małgorzata , Gnat Sebastian , Jafernik Karolina , Choma Irena Maria
Published: September 2023

HPLC and TLC profiling was carried out for leaf and fruit extracts of five Schisandraceae species: Schisandra chinensis, S. rubriflora, S. spehenanthera, S. henryi and Kadsura japonica. HPLC measurements confirmed presence of lignans and phenolic compounds in fruits and leaves of all tested species. The most abundant in lignans was S. chinensis fruit extract in which 15 compounds were detected (e. g.: schisandrol A, schisanhenol, γ‐schisandrin, gomisin N). The effect‐directed detection, i. e., TLC‐direct bioautography against Bacillus subtilis, showed exceptionally high activity for S. chinensis and S. rubriflora fruit extracts. On the other hand, TLC‐DB enzyme tests (α‐glucosidase, lipase, tyrosinase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibition assays) showed that all fruit and leaf extracts have ability to inhibit the above‐mentioned enzymes (except for the K. japonica fruit). The leaf extracts showed much stronger antioxidant activity than the fruit ones, which were assessed and compared using both TLC‐direct bioautography and spectrophotometric measurements based on ABTS, DPPH and FRAP tests.
Unlocking Synergistic Potential: Agomelatine Enhances the Chemotherapeutic Effect of Paclitaxel in Breast Cancer Cell Through MT1 Melatonin Receptors and ER‐alpha Axis
Authors: Dincer Busra , Yildiztekin Gizem , Cinar Irfan
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the potential of agomelatine (AGO), a synthetic melatoninergic drug, in combination with paclitaxel (PTX) for the treatment of breast cancer. The effects of AGO, PTX and melatonin (MTN) on breast cancer cell viability were investigated, focusing on the role of MT1 receptors. Cell viability and gene expression were analyzed in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell experiments. The results show that AGO has cytotoxic effects on breast cancer cells similar to MTN. Combining AGO and MTN with PTX showed synergistic effects in MCF‐7 cells. The study also reveals differences in the molecular mechanisms of breast cancer between estrogen‐positive MCF‐7 cells and estrogen‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Combination with AGO and PTX affects apoptosis‐associated proteins in both cell types. The findings suggest that AGO, combined with PTX, may be a promising adjuvant therapy for breast cancer and highlight the importance of MTN receptors in its mechanism of action.
Synthesis of Some Benzothiazole Derivatives Based on 3‐Hydroxypyridine‐4‐one and Benzaldehyde and Evaluation of Their β‐Amyloid Aggregation Inhibition Using both Experimental Methods and Molecular Dynamic Simulation
Authors: Asgarshamsi Mohammad Hossein , Dehkordi Mehrdad Mohammadpour , Beigi Hossein Mohammad , Fassihi Afshin , Saghaie Lotfollah
Published: September 2023

Some novel inhibitors based on the (benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐yl)‐1‐phenylmethanimine derivatives were designed to reduce the aggregation process in Alzheimer's disease. These structures seem to mimic stilbene‐like scaffold, while the benzothiazole moiety “locks” the thioflavin T binding site. Other inhibitors were designed based on 2‐((benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐ylimino)methyl)‐5‐(benzyloxy)‐1‐methylpyridin‐4(H)‐one derivatives.

Benzo[d]thiazol‐2‐amine derivatives were prepared by the reaction of aniline derivatives with ammonium thiocyanate in the presence of bromine/acetic acid. Then, the reaction of amines with benzaldehyde derivatives and 5‐(benzyloxy)‐1‐methyl‐4‐oxo‐1,4‐dihydropyridine‐2‐carbaldehyde gave the desired compounds. The plate reader‐based fibrillation assay was done to evaluate the inhibition of Aβ aggregation. Also, molecular dynamic simulation was carried out to clarify the interaction manner of the designed compounds with Aβ formation.

The biological evaluation proved 5a and 7e as the best inhibitor of the Aβ aggregation. compound 5a in the concentration of 50 μM inhibited Aβ fibril formation better than 7e. MD simulation elucidated that the Aβ aggregation inhibitors in different concentrations represented different binding conformations throughout the entire or in one area of Aβ. MD showed the ligands in lower concentrations accumulate in an area of Aβ aggregations and separate one fibril from the aggregated Aβ. On the contrary, in higher concentrations, the ligands tend to be located through the entire Aβ.
Siparuna guianensis Essential Oil Antitumoral Activity on Ehrlich Model and Its Effect on Oxidative Stress
Authors: Viana Barbosa Lucas Gabriel , Silva de Jesus Ellen Nayara , Botelho Jerônimo Lucas , Silva da Costa Jamile , Cunha Silva Renata , Setzer William N. , R. da Silva Joyce Kelly , da Silva Freitas Jofre Jacob , B. Figueiredo Pablo Luis
Published: September 2023

This work aims to evaluate the chemical composition, in vitro antioxidant capacity, and in vivo antitumoral activity of S. guianensis essential oil against Ehrlich's ascitic carcinoma and the effects on oxidative stress. The animals (Mus musculus) received a daily dose of S. guianensis oil orally (100 mg/kg) for 9 days. The main constituents of essential oil were curzerenone (16.4±1.5 %), drimenol (13.7±0.2 %), and spathulenol (12.4±0.8 %). S. guianensis oil showed antioxidant activity, inhibiting 11.1 % of DPPH radicals (95.7 mgTE/g); and 15.5 % of the β‐carotene peroxidation. The group treated with S. guianensis showed a significant reduction in tumor cells (59.76±12.33) compared to the tumor group (96.88±19.15). Essential oil of S. guianensis decreased MDA levels and increased SOD levels in liver tissue. The essential oil of S. guianensis reduced oxidative stress, and showed antitumor and antioxidant activity, being characterized as a new chemical profile in the investigation of pathologies such as cancer.
Generation of Cannabigerolic Acid Derivatives and Their Precursors by Using the Promiscuity of the Aromatic Prenyltransferase NphB
Authors: Spitzer Saskia , Wloka Jasmin , Pietruszka Jörg , Kayser Oliver
Published: September 2023

NphB is an aromatic prenyltransferase with high promiscuity for phenolics including flavonoids, isoflavonoids, and plant polyketides. It has been demonstrated that cannabigerolic acid is successfully formed by the reaction catalysed by NphB using geranyl diphosphate and olivetolic acid as substrates. In this study, the substrate specificity of NphB was further determined by using olivetolic acid derivatives as potential substrates for the formation of new synthetic cannabinoids. The derivatives differ in the hydrocarbon chain attached to C6 of the core structure. We performed in silico experiments, including docking of olivetolic acid derivatives, to identify differences in their binding modes. Substrate acceptance was predicted. Based on these results, a library of olivetolic acid derivatives was constructed and synthesized by using different organic synthetic routes. Conversion was monitored in in vitro assays with purified NphB versions. For the substrates leading to a high conversion olivetolic acid‐C8, olivetolic acid‐C2 and 2‐benzyl‐4,6‐dihydroxybenzoic acid, the products were further elucidated and identified as cannbigerolic acid derivatives. Therefore, these substrates show potential to be adapted in cannabinoid biosynthesis.