bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strong Tough Thermogalvanic Hydrogel Thermocell With Extraordinarily High Thermoelectric Performance
Authors: Liu Lili , Zhang Ding , Bai Peijia , Mao Yin , Li Qi , Guo Jiaqi , Fang Yanjie , Ma Rujun
Published: May 2023

Thermocells can continuously convert heat into electricity, and they are widely used to power wearable electronic devices. However, they have a risk of leakage and poor mechanical properties. Although quasi‐solid ionic thermocells can overcome the issue of electrolyte leakage, the trade‐off between their excellent mechanical properties and high thermopower remains a major challenge. In this study, stretching‐induced crystallization and the thermoelectric effect are combined to propose a high‐strength quasi‐solid stretchable polyvinyl alcohol thermogalvanic thermocell (SPTC) with a large tensile strength of 19 MPa and high thermopower of 6.5 mV K−1. The SPTC exhibits a high stretchability of 1300%, ultrahigh toughness of 163.4 MJ m−3, and high specific output power density of 1969 µW m−2 K−2. These comprehensive properties are superior to those of previously reported quasi‐solid stretchable thermogalvanic thermocells. The use of SPTC‐based systems in wearable devices for energy‐autonomous strain sensors and health monitoring is demonstrated. This can facilitate the rapid implementation of sustainable wearable electronics in the Internet of Things era.
Spatially‐Encoding Hydrogels With DNA to Control Cell Signaling
Authors: Ramani Namrata , Figg C. Adrian , Anderson Alex J. , Winegar Peter H. , Oh EunBi , Ebrahimi Sasha B. , Samanta Devleena , Mirkin Chad A.
Published: May 2023

Patterning biomolecules in synthetic hydrogels offers routes to visualize and learn how spatially‐encoded cues modulate cell behavior (e.g., proliferation, differentiation, migration, and apoptosis). However, investigating the role of multiple, spatially defined biochemical cues within a single hydrogel matrix remains challenging because of the limited number of orthogonal bioconjugation reactions available for patterning. Herein, a method to pattern multiple oligonucleotide sequences in hydrogels using thiol‐yne photochemistry is introduced. Rapid hydrogel photopatterning of hydrogels with micron resolution DNA features (≈1.5 µm) and control over DNA density are achieved over centimeter‐scale areas using mask‐free digital photolithography. Sequence‐specific DNA interactions are then used to reversibly tether biomolecules to patterned regions, demonstrating chemical control over individual patterned domains. Last, localized cell signaling is shown using patterned protein–DNA conjugates to selectively activate cells on patterned areas. Overall, this work introduces a synthetic method to achieve multiplexed micron resolution patterns of biomolecules onto hydrogel scaffolds, providing a platform to study complex spatially‐encoded cellular signaling environments.
Ultrasound‐Triggered Cascade Amplification of Nanotherapy
Authors: Zhuang Fan , Xiang Huijing , Huang Beijian , Chen Yu
Published: May 2023

Ultrasound (US)‐triggered cascade amplification of nanotherapies has attracted considerable attention as an effective strategy for cancer treatment. With the remarkable advances in materials chemistry and nanotechnology, a large number of well‐designed nanosystems have emerged that incorporate presupposed cascade amplification processes and can be activated to trigger therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and ferroptosis, under exogenous US stimulation or specific substances generated by US actuation, to maximize antitumor efficacy and minimize detrimental effects. Therefore, summarizing the corresponding nanotherapies and applications based on US‐triggered cascade amplification is essential. This review comprehensively summarizes and highlights the recent advances in the design of intelligent modalities, consisting of unique components, distinctive properties, and specific cascade processes. These ingenious strategies confer unparalleled potential to nanotherapies based on ultrasound‐triggered cascade amplification and provide superior controllability, thus overcoming the unmet requirements of precision medicine and personalized treatment. Finally, the challenges and prospects of this emerging strategy are discussed and it is expected to encourage more innovative ideas and promote their further development.
Spatial‐Selective Volumetric 4D Printing and Single‐Photon Grafting of Biomolecules within Centimeter‐Scale Hydrogels via Tomographic Manufacturing
Authors: Falandt Marc , Bernal Paulina Nuñez , Dudaryeva Oksana , Florczak Sammy , Größbacher Gabriel , Schweiger Matthias , Longoni Alessia , Greant Coralie , Assunção Marisa , Nijssen Olaf , van Vlierberghe Sandra , Malda Jos , Vermonden Tina , Levato Riccardo
Published: May 2023

Conventional additive manufacturing and biofabrication techniques are unable to edit the chemicophysical properties of the printed object postprinting. Herein, a new approach is presented, leveraging light‐based volumetric printing as a tool to spatially pattern any biomolecule of interest in custom‐designed geometries even across large, centimeter‐scale hydrogels. As biomaterial platform, a gelatin norbornene resin is developed with tunable mechanical properties suitable for tissue engineering applications. The resin can be volumetrically printed within seconds at high resolution (23.68 ± 10.75 µm). Thiol–ene click chemistry allows on‐demand photografting of thiolated compounds postprinting, from small to large (bio)molecules (e.g., fluorescent dyes or growth factors). These molecules are covalently attached into printed structures using volumetric light projections, forming 3D geometries with high spatiotemporal control and ≈50 µm resolution. As a proof of concept, vascular endothelial growth factor is locally photografted into a bioprinted construct and demonstrated region‐dependent enhanced adhesion and network formation of endothelial cells. This technology paves the way toward the precise spatiotemporal biofunctionalization and modification of the chemical composition of (bio)printed constructs to better guide cell behavior, build bioactive cue gradients. Moreover, it opens future possibilities for 4D printing to mimic the dynamic changes in morphogen presentation natively experienced in biological tissues.
Mn2+‐Based Luminescent Metal Halides: Syntheses, Properties, and Applications
Authors: Liang Dehai , Xiao Hongbin , Cai Wensi , Lu Shirong , Zhao Shuangyi , Zang Zhigang , Xie Lei
Published: May 2023

Lead‐free metal halides are considered a new generation of optoelectronic materials due to their low toxicity, superior optoelectronic properties, ease of synthesis, structural diversity, and low cost. In particular, Mn2+‐based metal halides have earned intensive attention owing to their high emission quantum efficiency, rich physical properties (e.g., triboluminescence and stimuli‐responsivity), low cost, and toxicity. Due to the different coordination environments of Mn ions, Mn2+‐based metal halides can exhibit green, red, and near‐infrared emissions. This review summarizes the recent progress of Mn2+‐based metal halides in synthesis methods, emission mechanisms, photophysical properties, and representative applications in X‐ray scintillations, white light‐emitting diodes, optical anti‐counterfeiting technologies, and fluorescent sensors. Finally, the challenges and potential research directions toward developing Mn2+‐based metal halides are also predicted.
Self‐Powered Te/Wse2 Van Der Waals Heterojunction Photodetectors With High Light On/Off Ratio And Fast Response
Authors: He Xu , Zhang Ling , Hong Wenting , Wang Bicheng , Sun Fapeng , Hong Zhaoan , Cai Qian , Sun Zhihua , Liu Wei
Published: May 2023

The development of a self‐powered photodetector capable of functioning without an external power source has generated significant interest among researchers due to the growing demand for miniaturization and portability. In this study, a p‐Te/n‐WSe2 van der Waals heterojunction with a distinct rectification ratio exceeding 104, an ultralow reverse current of 10−11 A, and a light on/off ratio of up to 5657 under 405 nm light illumination is fabricated. Additionally, the Te/WSe2 heterojunction displayed a fast response speed of 18 µs and a broadband detection capability from 405 to 1550 nm. Furthermore, the Te/WSe2 heterojunction demonstrated a competitive self‐powered photodetector, exhibiting a light on/off ratio above 5 × 104, a photovoltaic responsivity of 196 mA W−1, and a photovoltaic detectivity of 7.5 × 1011 Jones. This study highlights the promising potential of Te/WSe2 vdWH for ultrasensitive self‐powered photodetection applications.
Capacity Consistency Prediction and Process Parameter Optimization of Lithium‐Ion Battery based on Neural Network and Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Han Youjun , Yuan Hongyuan , Shao Ying , Li Jin , Huang Xuejie
Published: May 2023

The grading capacity of lithium‐ion battery is an important basis for evaluating battery quality. Aiming at the difficulty of determining the critical control factors and the threshold of the control parameters in the lithium‐ion battery manufacturing process, a capacity prediction and process parameter optimization model of lithium‐ion battery is proposed by combining the back propagation (BP) and particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithms. First, the BP method is applied to establish the nonlinear mapping relationship between process data and grading capacity, which is regarded as the capacity consistency prediction model. Second, using the prediction model as fitness function and combining with PSO algorithm, the optimization model of process parameters is established. Finally, under the given initial process parameters from the lithium‐ion battery pilot line, it is carried out to obtain the best process parameter formula. The results show that the BP method has an accurate capacity consistency prediction effect. Combined with PSO algorithm, the optimized process parameters are obtained, which significantly improves the capacity consistency of lithium‐ion batteries. The results serve as an engineering application method to guide the selection and confirmation of process parameters at the battery design stage.
Non‐Linear Kinetics of The Lithium Metal Anode on Li6PS5Cl at High Current Density: Dendrite Growth and the Role of Lithium Microstructure on Creep
Authors: Singh Dheeraj Kumar , Fuchs Till , Krempaszky Christian , Mogwitz Boris , Janek Jürgen
Published: May 2023

Interfacial instability, viz., pore formation in the lithium metal anode (LMA) during discharge leading to high impedance, current focusing induced solid–electrolyte (SE) fracture during charging, and formation/behaviour of the solid–electrolyte interphase (SEI), at the anode, is one of the major hurdles in the development of solid‐state batteries (SSBs). Also, understanding cell polarization behaviour at high current density is critical to achieving the goal of fast‐charging battery and electric vehicle. Herein, via in situ electrochemical scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements, performed with freshly deposited lithium microelectrodes on transgranularly fractured fresh Li6PS5Cl (LPSCl), the LiǀLPSCl interface kinetics are investigated beyond the linear regime. Even at relatively small overvoltages of a few mV, the LiǀLPSCl interface shows non‐linear kinetics. The interface kinetics possibly involve multiple rate‐limiting processes, i.e., ion transport across the SEI and SE|SEI interfaces, as well as charge transfer across the LiǀSEI interface. The total polarization resistance RP of the microelectrode interface is determined to be ≈ 0.8 Ω cm2. It is further shown that the nanocrystalline lithium microstructure can lead to a stable LiǀSE interface via Coble creep along with uniform stripping. Also, spatially resolved lithium deposition, i.e., at grain surface flaws, grain boundaries, and flaw‐free surfaces, indicates exceptionally high mechanical endurance of flaw‐free surfaces toward cathodic load (>150 mA cm−2). This highlights the prominent role of surface defects in dendrite growth.
The role of solute conformation, solvent–solute and solute–solute interactions in crystal nucleation
Authors: Li Xin , Wang Na , Huang Yunhai , Xing Jiangna , Huang Xin , Ferguson Steven , Wang Ting , Zhou Lina , Hao Hongxun
Published: May 2023

The induction time for nucleation can differ based on the solutions used to conduct a crystallization, which can in turn impact the efficiency and economics of a crystallization process, the crystal size distribution, the morphology and ultimately functionality of the final product. Establishing a link between the nucleation pathway/solution structure and nucleation induction time is essential to achieve improved comprehension of the process of crystal nucleation from solution. In this study, the role of solute conformation, solvent–solute interaction, and solute–solute interaction in nucleation was examined using tolbutamide as a model compound in toluene and toluene–alcohol solutions. Through a combination of induction time experiments, attenuated total reflection Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, and quantum chemical calculations, it was found that not only solvent–solute interactions but also solute–solute interactions and structural similarities between molecular self‐assemblies in the solution and synthons in the crystal structure, can significantly influence the nucleation induction time.
GeoV: An Open‐Source Software Package for Quantitative Image Analysis of 3D Vesicle Morphologies
Authors: Dreher Yannik , Niessner Jakob , Fink Andreas , Göpfrich Kerstin
Published: May 2023

Bottom‐up synthetic biology has reconstituted processes like adhesion, cortex formation, or division of giant lipid vesicles (GUVs), which all rely on changes in the vesicle morphology. However, oftentimes, GUV morphologies and shape transitions are described qualitatively, which makes it difficult to quantitatively compare results from different studies and to advance precision engineering. Herein, open‐source software package GeoV for the 3D reconstruction and analysis of GUV shapes from confocal microscopy z‐stacks is presented. The accuracy of the reconstruction by comparing the output for the Hausdorff distance of the surface, the curvature, and the bending energy to ground truth data for simulated shapes of different complexities is quantified. Next, GeoV on a variety of confocal microscopy datasets, including z‐stacks from spherical GUVs and GUVs deformed with DNA origami, adherent GUVs, DNA droplets, and cells, is tested. Additionally, the effect of membrane‐binding DNA origami on the vesicle shape, volume, and bending energy is quantified. It is found that osmotic deflation and attachment of DNA origami can increase the bending energy of GUVs by a factor of 10. All in all, GeoV as an open‐source software package for the quantitative analysis of confocal microscopy data for bottom‐up synthetic biology is provided.
Maternally inherited deletion encompassing the RTL1as and MEG8 genes of the human 14q32 imprinted region in a patient with a mild Kagami‐Ogata syndrome phenotype
Authors: Sirera Sirera Paula , García‐Payá Elena , Olivas García Julia , Jadraque Rodríguez Rocío , Hernández Romero Sofía Daniela
Published: May 2023

Kagami‐Ogata syndrome and Temple syndrome are imprinting disorders caused by the abnormal expression of genes in an imprinted cluster on chromosome 14q32. Here, we report a female with mild features of the Kagami‐Ogata syndrome phenotype with polyhydramnios, neonatal hypotonia, feeding difficulties, abnormal foot morphology, patent foramen ovale, distal arthrogryposis, normal facial profile, and a bell‐shaped thorax without coat hanger ribs. The single nucleotide polymorphism array revealed the interstitial deletion of chromosome 14q32.2–q32.31 (117 kb in size), involving the RTL1as and MEG8 genes, and other small nucleolar RNAs and microRNAs. The differentially methylated regions (DMRs) appeared unaltered. The RTL1as gene deletion and the normal methylation pattern of the MEG3 gene loci were confirmed by methylation‐specific multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification. Deletions of the 14q32 region without involving DMRs, and encompassing only the RTL1as and MEG8 genes, are poorly described in the literature. The mother's chromosomal microarray also confirmed the identical 14q32.2 deletion, although she presented a normal phenotype. The maternally inherited 14q32 deletion was responsible for Kagami‐Ogata syndrome in our patient. It was not sufficient, however, to produce Temple syndrome or any other pathogenic phenotype in the patient's mother.
Pd‐catalyzed anti‐Markovnikov Hydrocarboxylation of Vinylarenes with Formic Acid Free of Auxiliary Additive
Authors: Zhuang Yi‐Ying , Chen Xiao‐Chao , Zhao Kai‐Chun , Zhang Guo‐Sheng , Xie Yu‐Fen , Lu Yong , Liu Ye
Published: May 2023

This work was financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Nos. 22172052 and 21972045), and the Research Funds of Happiness Flower ECNU (2022ST2203).
Zwitterionic Open‐Shell Singlet Diradical with Solvent‐Dependent Singlet–Triplet Energy Gap
Authors: Shimizu Akihiro , Hayashida Masaaki , Ochi Yuta , Shiomi Daisuke , Sato Kazunobu , Takui Takeji , Shintani Ryo
Published: May 2023

A zwitterionic open‐shell singlet diradical composed of electron‐donating anion, anthroxide, and electron‐accepting cation, phenazinium, was designed and synthesized. The diradical has a small HOMO–LUMO energy gap and shows near‐infrared absorption. Temperature‐dependent ESR measurements confirmed its small energy gap between ground singlet and thermally‐excited triplet states (ΔEST). The ΔEST of the diradical was changed by solvents (toluene, 2‐MeTHF, and EtOH).
First clear evidence ofAnoplotherium (Mammalia, Artiodactyla) in the Iberian Peninsula: an update on the Iberian anoplotheriines
Authors: Badiola Ainara , De Vicuña Nahia Jiménez , Perales‐Gogenola Leire , Gómez‐Olivencia Asier
Published: May 2023

Anoplotheriines (Mammalia, Artiodactyla) were enigmatic, medium‐ to large‐sized ungulates that lived in Western Europe from the late middle Eocene to the earliest Oligocene. The unusual dental and postcranial specializations of these Paleogene mammals have no equivalent in other Cenozoic or contemporaneous artiodactyls on Holarctic landmasses. They appeared abruptly on the Central European Island around the middle to late Eocene transition, but their origin and dispersal through the different areas of the Eocene European archipelago are uncertain. The Iberian fossil record of anoplotheriines is not as well‐known as that of other Western European areas. This study examined anoplotheriine artiodactyl fossils from late Eocene (Priabonian) beds at the Zambrana site (Miranda‐Treviño Basin, Araba/Álava, Spain). We assign them to at least two different species of anoplotheriines, one in the genus Anoplotherium and the other tentatively assigned to the genus Diplobune. In addition, we described the first cranial and dental elements of Anoplotherium from the Iberian Peninsula. These fossils are crucial for establishing the chronological framework of the Iberian site of Zambrana and understanding the biodiversity and paleobiogeography of the European Eocene artiodactyl fauna.
Cystoscopic removal of transvaginal mesh: Long‐term outcomes
Authors: Anderson Katherine , Perrouin‐Verbe Marie‐Aimée , Bridgeman‐Rutledge Lily , Skews Rachel , Hashim Hashim
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study's aim is to evaluate the long‐term quality of life and functional outcomes following cystoscopic excision of stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and pelvic organ prolapse (POP) mesh extruded into the urinary tract in women.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed of all cases of cystoscopic removal of extruded mesh at our high‐volume tertiary care centre between April 2013 and August 2021. Postoperative patient‐reported outcomes were collected via questionnaires: Urogenital Distress Inventory Short Form (UDI‐6), EQ‐5D‐5L Visual analogue scale, ICIQ‐Satisfaction (ICIQ‐S) and additional questions regarding postoperative sexual function.

Results

During the study period, 27 women with a median age of 61 years (45–87) underwent cystoscopic mesh removal surgery using either Ho‐YAG laser (56%) or bipolar loop resection (44%). The most common presentation of mesh extrusion was recurrent urinary tract infections (67%). Other presenting complaints were pain (41%), urinary urgency ± incontinence (41%) and voiding difficulties (18%). Long‐term follow‐up outcomes from 20 patients (median follow‐up: 24 months) showed that mesh removal was rated successful by 80%, and 100% would choose to have the surgery again if in the same situation. Recurrent SUI was reported by 45% of respondents, and urinary urge incontinence was found in 50%. For patients who answered the sexual function questions, 50% reported improved sexual function postmesh removal (6/12).

Conclusions

Cystoscopic removal of extruded female SUI and POP mesh is associated with high patient satisfaction and low morbidity in appropriately selected patients at 2‐year median follow‐up. A patient‐centred shared decision‐making process is essential in counselling patients regarding options and expected outcomes following mesh removal surgery.
The inhibitory potential of chemical constituents of Ficus carica targeting interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) mediated inflammation
Authors: Mansoor Hussaam Ul Haq , Ahmed Abrar , Rasool Fatima
Published: May 2023

Inflammation is an innate reaction of the body of an individual when subjected to the noxious factors repeatedly. Pharmacological approaches focused at disrupting cytokine signaling networks have become significant therapeutic alternatives for the treatment of inflammatory illnesses, cancer and autoimmune disorders. High levels of inflammatory mediators, particularly interleukin IL‐1, IL‐6, IL‐18, IL‐12, and tumor necrosis factor alpha leads to a cytokine storm in the body. Among all the released cytokines in a patient suffering from inflammatory disorder, IL‐6 mediator has a pivotal role in this inflammatory cascade which progresses to a cytokine storm. Therefore, the blockage of the IL‐6 inflammatory mediator could be a promising treatment option for the patients with hyper inflammatory conditions. The phytochemicals could provide the new lead compounds against the IL‐6 mediator. Ficus carica has been the ideal plant of research and investigation due to its commercial, economic and medical importance. The anti‐inflammatory properties of F. carica were further investigated by in silico and in vivo approaches. The docking scores of Cyanidin‐3,5‐diglucoside, Kaempferol‐7‐O‐rutinoside, Cyanidin‐3‐rhamnoglucoside, and Rutin are −9.231, −8.921, −8.840, and −8.335 Kcal/mole respectively. The free energy of binding and stability of the docked complexes of these top four phytochemicals with the IL‐6 were further analyzed by Molecular Mechanics‐Generalized Born Surface Area and Molecular Dynamic simulations, respectively. The in vivo anti‐inflammatory carrageenan‐induced rat paw edema model was used for the validation of in silico results. The maximum percentage paw edema inhibition with petroleum ether and ethyl acetate was 70.32% and 45.05%, respectively. The in vivo anti‐inflammatory activity confirms the anti‐inflammatory potential of F. carica. Therefore, it is predicted that Cyanidin‐3,5‐diglucoside, Kaempferol‐7‐O‐rutinoside, Cyanidin‐3‐rhamnoglucoside, and Rutin have the potential to inhibit the IL‐6 mediator which will aid in mitigating the cytokine storm in patients with acute inflammations.
Fe3O4@SiO2‐APTES@Isophthaloyl Dichloride/Montmorillonite Magnetic Nanoparticles for Efficient Removal of Pb2+ and Cd2+
Authors: Yazdani Mohammad Reza , Fozooni Samieh , Khabazzadeh Hojat , Nazarizadeh Elham
Published: May 2023

A novel magnetic nanocomposite for removing Cd2+ and Pb2+ was prepared by surface coating of Fe3O4 nanoparticles with (3‐aminopropyl)triethoxysilane (APTES), followed by functionalization with isophthaloyl dichloride and hybridization with nano montmorillonite (MMT). The structure of the resulting nanocomposite was determined. The Fe3O4@SiO2‐APTES@isophthaloyl dichloride/MMT nanocomposite was successfully used to remove Cd2+ and Pb2+ from aqueous solutions. Several tests were designed using response surface methodology and the variables were predicted by the reduced quartic model. Absorption parameters such as time, pH, and initial cation concentration were considered as independent variables. The effects of each on the removal of Cd2+ and Pb2+ ions were examined. The efficiency of the model was evaluated by analysis of variance.
Liquid‐Liquid Emulsion Produced by 3D‐Printed Vortex‐Based Hydrodynamic Cavitation Device
Authors: Thaker Abhijeet H. , Boreham Paul , Kourousis Kyriakos I. , Ranade Vivek V.
Published: May 2023

3D‐printed vortex‐based devices have shown excellent performance in realizing hydrodynamic cavitation (HC) and have opened up new ways of effectively producing oil‐in‐water emulsions via cavitation. In this work, the performance of machined and 3D‐printed vortex‐based HC devices for producing liquid‐liquid emulsions was compared in terms of droplet breakage efficiency and energy consumption per kilogram of emulsion. The Euler numbers of 3D‐printed and VMC‐machined HC devices were 42 and 48, respectively. The differences in droplet size distribution and other characteristic diameters were insignificant after 50 passes. The present work confirms the potential of harnessing 3D printing technology for fabricating HC devices and can facilitate development of new device designs to improve overall emulsification performance.
Nucleoside Derivatives of 2,6‐Diaminopurine Antivirals: Base‐Modified Nucleosides with Broad‐Spectrum Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Grazia Martina Maria , Giammarino Federica , Vicenti Ilaria , Groaz Elisabetta , Rozenski Jef , Incerti Matteo , Sannio Filomena , Docquier Jean Denis , Zazzi Maurizio , Radi Marco
Published: May 2023

The plethora of viral outbreaks experienced in the last decade, together with the widespread distribution of many re‐emerging and newly emerging viruses, emphasize the urgent need for novel broad‐spectrum antivirals as tools for early intervention in case of future epidemics. Non‐natural nucleosides have been at the forefront for the treatment of infectious diseases for many years and still represent one of the most successful classes of antiviral molecules on the market. In the attempt to explore the biologically relevant chemical space of this class of antimicrobials, we describe herein the development of novel base‐modified nucleosides by converting previously identified 2,6‐diaminopurine antivirals into the corresponding D/L ribonucleosides, acyclic nucleosides and prodrug derivatives. A phenotypic screening against viruses belonging to different families (Flaviviridae, Coronaviridae, Retroviridae) and against a panel of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, allowed to identify a few interesting molecules with broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activities.
Row spacing, seeding depth, seeding rate, and trinexapac‐ethyl effects on oat yield and lodging
Authors: Studhalter Marion , Janovicek Ken , Kim Jinwook , Byker Holly , Mountain Nathan , Nasielski Joshua
Published: May 2023

Lodging can reduce the yield and quality of oats (Avena sativa L.). Root lodging, as opposed to stem lodging, is the predominant form of lodging in oats. Therefore, identifying management practices that enhance root lodging resistance should be prioritized. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of four management practices on oat grain yield, yield components, grain quality, observed lodging, and plant traits that contribute to root lodging resistance. Row spacing and seeding depth were tested in three oat cultivars across two environments in Ontario, Canada. Seeding rate and the application of the plant growth regulator trinexapac‐ethyl (TE) at different nitrogen (N) fertilizer rates were tested in two‐to‐three oat cultivars across four environments. Lodging occurred naturally in all environments, with root lodging always occurring, sometimes in combination with stem lodging. Under high lodging pressure, shallow seeding increased lodging. Similarly, lodging increased with greater seeding rates when lodging pressure was high. Reducing row spacing had no effect on lodging but was the only management practice to consistently increase grain yield. TE reduced lodging in some environments, especially as N rates increased. Root plate spread, root plate depth, and root safety factor were minimally affected by the management practices studied and had complex interactions with genotype and environment. Among the measured crop traits, plant height had the strongest and most consistent relationship to observed lodging.
Enhancing CO2 Transport Across a PEEK‐Ionene Membrane and Water‐Lean Solvent Interface
Authors: Walter Eric D. , Zhang Difan , Chen Ying , Sung Han Kee , Bazak J. David , Burton Sarah , O'Harra Kathryn , Hoyt David W. , Bara Jason E. , Malhotra Deepika , Allec Sarah I. , Glezakou Vassiliki‐Alexandra , Heldebrant David J. , Rousseau Roger
Published: May 2023

Efficient direct air capture (DAC) of CO2 will require strategies to deal with the relatively low concentration in the atmosphere. One such strategy is to employ the combination of a CO2‐selective membrane coupled with a CO2 capture solvent acting as a draw solution. Here, the interactions between a leading water‐lean carbon‐capture solvent, a polyether ether ketone (PEEK)‐ionene membrane, CO2, and combinations were probed using advanced NMR techniques coupled with advanced simulations. We identify the speciation and dynamics of the solvent, membrane, and CO2, presenting spectroscopic evidence of CO2 diffusion through benzylic regions within the PEEK‐ionene membrane, not spaces in the ionic lattice as expected. Our results demonstrate that water‐lean capture solvents provide a thermodynamic and kinetic funnel to draw CO2 from the air through the membrane and into the bulk solvent, thus enhancing the performance of the membrane. The reaction between the carbon‐capture solvent and CO2 produces carbamic acid, disrupting interactions between the imidazolium (Im+) cations and the bistriflimide anions within the PEEK‐ionene membrane, thereby creating structural changes through which CO2 can diffuse more readily. Consequently, this restructuring results in CO2 diffusion at the interface that is faster than CO2 diffusion in the bulk carbon‐capture solvent.
Feasibility of telerehabilitation for heart failure patients inaccessible for outpatient rehabilitation
Authors: Lundgren Kari Margrethe , Langlo Knut Asbjørn Rise , Salvesen Øyvind , Zanaboni Paolo , Cittanti Elisa , Mo Rune , Ellingsen Øyvind , Dalen Håvard , Aksetøy Inger‐Lise Aamot
Published: May 2023

Aims

Despite strong recommendations, outpatient cardiac rehabilitation is underused in chronic heart failure (CHF) patients. Possible barriers are frailty, accessibility, and rural living, which may be overcome by telerehabilitation. We designed a randomized, controlled trial to evaluate the feasibility of a 3‐month real‐time, home‐based telerehabilitation, high‐intensity exercise programme for CHF patients who are either unable or unwilling to participate in standard outpatient cardiac rehabilitation and to explore outcomes of self‐efficacy and physical fitness at 3 months post‐intervention.

Methods and results

CHF patients with reduced (≤40%), mildly reduced (41–49%), or preserved ejection fraction (≥50%) (n = 61) were randomized 1:1 to telerehabilitation or control in a prospective controlled trial. The telerehabilitation group (n = 31) received real‐time, home‐based, high‐intensity exercise for 3 months. Inclusion criteria were (i) ≥18 years, (ii) New York Heart Association class II‐III, stable on optimized medical therapy for >4 weeks, and (iii) N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide >300 ng/L. All participants participated in a 2‐day ‘Living with heart failure’ course. No other intervention beyond standard care was provided for controls. Outcome measures were adherence, adverse events, self‐reported outcome measures, the general perceived self‐efficacy scale, peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak) and a 6‐min walk test (6MWT). The mean age was 67.6 (11.3) years, and 18% were women. Most of the telerehabilitation group (80%) was adherent or partly adherent. No adverse events were reported during supervised exercise. Ninety‐six per cent (26/27) reported that they felt safe during real‐time, home‐based telerehabilitation, high‐intensity exercise, and 96% (24/25) reported that, after the home‐based supervised telerehabilitation, they were motivated to participate in further exercise training. More than half the population (15/26) reported minor technical issues with the videoconferencing software. 6MWT distance increased significantly in the telerehabilitation group (19 m, P = 0.02), whereas a significant decrease in VO2peak (−0.72 mL/kg/min, P = 0.03) was observed in the control group. There were no significant differences between the groups in general perceived self‐efficacy scale, VO2peak, and 6MWT distance after intervention or at 3 months post‐intervention.

Conclusions

Home‐based telerehabilitation was feasible in chronic heart failure patients inaccessible for outpatient cardiac rehabilitation. Most participants were adherent when given more time and felt safe exercising at home under supervision, and no adverse events occurred. The trial suggests that telerehabilitation can increase the use of cardiac rehabilitation, but the clinical benefit of telerehabilitation must be evaluated in larger trials.
Regulation of autophagy by plant‐based polyphenols: A critical review of current advances in glucolipid metabolic diseases and food industry applications
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Quan Wei , Zeng Maomao , Wang Zhaojun , Chen Qiuming , Chen Jie , Christian Mark , He Zhiyong
Published: May 2023

Autophagy is a complex self‐degrading process, and its imbalance adversely affects local (metabolically active organs) or systemic metabolism, resulting in metabolic dysfunction correlated with obesity, fatty liver, and type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols are plant secondary metabolites and their ingestion may offer beneficial effects on biological processes, including cell proliferation, cell cycle, apoptosis and autophagy. In this review, the effects of plant‐based polyphenols on autophagy and the underlying mechanisms in the regulation of glucolipid metabolic diseases (GLMDs) are examined in the context of potential health benefits. The available evidence, mainly from animal models, strongly supports that polyphenols improve the metabolic functions of different organs by acting on various molecular targets related to autophagic flux. Multiple autophagic pathways, including cAMP, AMPK, MAPK, AKT, SIRT1, PI3K, Nrf2/HO‐1, PINK1/Parkin, PPARδ, and miRNAs have been implicated in the improvement of GLMDs by polyphenols. Moreover, the potential utilization of polyphenol‐meditated autophagy in the food industry was discussed. The current review provides a comprehensive understanding of the prospective role and mechanisms of polyphenol‐regulated autophagy in GLMDs and opens up future insights into its application to the healthcare and food industries.
Protective effect of mussel polysaccharide on cyclophosphamide‐induced intestinal oxidative stress injury via Nrf2‐Keap1 signaling pathway
Authors: Zhao Zhen‐Lei , Xu Xiao‐Gang , Chang Yun‐Chuang , Xu Yi‐Peng , Zhou Xu‐Qiang , Su Hui‐Li , Cui Xiao‐Hua , Wan Xiao‐Qing , Mao Gen‐Xiang
Published: May 2023

The hard‐shelled mussel (Mytilus coruscus) has been used as a traditional Chinese medicine and health food in China for centuries. Polysaccharides from mussel has been reported to have multiple biological functions, however, it remains unclear whether mussel polysaccharide (MP) exerts protective effects in intestinal functions, and the underlying mechanisms of action remain unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the protective effects and mechanism of MP on intestinal oxidative injury in mice. In this study, 40 male BALB/C mice were used, with 30 utilized to produce an animal model of intestinal oxidative injury with intraperitoneal injection of cyclophosphamide (Cy) for four consecutive days. The protective effects of two different doses of MP (300 and 600 mg/kg) were assessed by investigating the change in body weight, visceral index, and observing colon histomorphology. Moreover, the underlying molecular mechanisms were investigated by measuring the antioxidant enzymes and related signaling molecules through ELISA, real‐time PCR, and western blot methods. The results showed that MP pretreatment effectively protected the intestinal from Cy‐induced injury: improved the colon tissue morphology and villus structure, increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activities, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content in serum and colon tissues. Meanwhile, MP also significantly increased the expression levels of SOD, GSH‐Px, heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1), and nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) mRNA in colon tissues. Further, western blot results showed that the expression of Nrf2 protein was significantly upregulated while kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) was significantly downregulated by MP in the colonic tissues. This study indicates that MP can ameliorate Cy‐induced oxidative stress injury in mice, and Nrf2‐Keap1 signaling pathway may mediate these protective effects.
The landscape of BRCA1 and BRCA2 large rearrangements in an international cohort of over 20 000 ovarian tumors identified using next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Jones Melanie A. , Timms Kirsten M. , Hatcher Shanell , Cogan Elizabeth S. , Comeaux Matthew S. , Perry Michael , Morris Brian , Swedlund Brad , Elks Cathy E. , Lao‐Sirieix Pierre , Dearden Simon , Egile Coumaran , Brown Jessica S. , Harrington Elizabeth A. , Hodgson Darren , Stern Matt , Slavin Thomas P. , Mancini‐DiNardo Debora
Published: May 2023

Background

Approximately half of ovarian tumors have defects within the homologous recombination repair pathway. Tumors carrying pathogenic variants (PVs) in BRCA1/BRCA2 are more likely to respond to poly‐ADP ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor treatment. Large rearrangements (LRs) are a challenging class of variants to identify and characterize in tumor specimens and may therefore be underreported. This study describes the prevalence of pathogenic BRCA1/BRCA2 LRs in ovarian tumors and discusses the importance of their identification using a comprehensive testing strategy.

Methods

Sequencing and LR analyses of BRCA1/BRCA2 were conducted in 20 692 ovarian tumors received between March 18, 2016 and February 14, 2023 for MyChoice CDx testing. MyChoice CDx uses NGS dosage analysis to detect LRs in BRCA1/BRCA2 genes using dense tiling throughout the coding regions and limited flanking regions.

Results

Of the 2217 PVs detected, 6.3% (N = 140) were LRs. Overall, 0.67% of tumors analyzed carried a pathogenic LR. The majority of detected LRs were deletions (89.3%), followed by complex LRs (5.7%), duplications (4.3%), and retroelement insertions (0.7%). Notably, 25% of detected LRs encompassed a single or partial single exon. This study identified 84 unique LRs, 2 samples each carried 2 unique LRs in the same gene. We identified 17 LRs that occurred in multiple samples, some of which were specific to certain ancestries. Several cases presented here illustrate the intricacies involved in characterizing LRs, particularly when multiple events occur within the same gene.

Conclusions

Over 6% of PVs detected in the ovarian tumors analyzed were LRs. It is imperative for laboratories to utilize testing methodologies that will accurately detect LRs at a single exon resolution to optimize the identification of patients who may benefit from PARP inhibitor treatment.
Image Enhancement via Special Functions and Its Application for Near Infrared Imaging
Authors: Yang Ruoxi , Chen Long , Zhang Ling , Li Zongan , Lin Yingcheng , Wu Ye
Published: May 2023

Image enhancement is important given that it can be used to highlight the area of interest in the images. This article designs four filters via special function for realizing image enhancement. Firstly, a filter based on the exponential function is designed. When the value of the progression is even, the edge feature can be extracted. When the value of the progression is odd, sharp contrast can be obtained. Secondly, a filter is built using hyperbolic cosine and its inverse function, where a printmaking feature can be extracted. Thirdly, a filter is made via a hyperbolic secant function and its inverse. It can lead to the extraction of image edge. When the progression value is increasing, marginal effect can be found and the brightness is decreasing. Ripple morphology can be found. Fourthly, a filter is constructed through a hyperbolic sine function and its inverse, where marginal features can be extracted. Furthermore, these filters are useful for extracting the marginal features even when a high noise density of 0.9 is added to the original images. They are useful for highlighting the images acquired from near infrared imaging.
CA3–CA1 long‐term potentiation occurs regardless of respiration and cardiac cycle phases in urethane‐anesthetized rats
Authors: Nokia Miriam S. , Waselius Tomi , Penttonen Markku
Published: May 2023

Breathing and heartbeat synchronize to each other and to brain function and affect cognition in humans. However, it is not clear how cardiorespiratory rhythms modulate such basic processes as synaptic plasticity thought to underlie learning. Thus, we studied if respiration and cardiac cycle phases at burst stimulation onset affect hippocampal long‐term potentiation (LTP) in the CA3–CA1 synapse in urethane‐anesthetized adult male Sprague–Dawley rats. In a between‐subjects design, we timed burst stimulation of the ventral hippocampal commissure (vHC) to systole or diastole either during expiration or inspiration and recorded responses throughout the hippocampus with a linear probe. As classical conditioning in humans seems to be most efficient at expiration‐diastole, we also expected LTP to be most efficient if burst stimulation was targeted to expiration‐diastole. However, LTP was induced equally in all four groups and respiration and cardiac cycle phase did not modulate CA1 responses to vHC stimulation overall. This could be perhaps because we bypassed all natural routes of external influences on the CA1 by directly stimulating the vHC. In the future, the effect of cardiorespiratory rhythms on synaptic plasticity could also be studied in awake state and in other parts of the hippocampal tri‐synaptic loop.
Another Torture Track for Quantum Chemistry: Reinvestigation of the Benzaldehyde Amidation by Nitrogen‐Atom Transfer from Platinum(II) and Palladium(II) Metallonitrenes
Authors: Verplancke Hendrik , Diefenbach Martin , Lienert Jonas N. , Ugandi Mihkel , Kitsaras Marios‐Petros , Roemelt Michael , Stopkowicz Stella , Holthausen Max C.
Published: May 2023

We showcase here a dramatic failure of CCSD(T) theory that originates from the pronounced multi‐reference character of a key intermediate formed in the benzaldehyde amidation by N‐atom transfer from Pd(II) and Pt(II) metallonitrenes studied recently in combined experimental and theoretical work. For detailed analysis we devised a minimal model system, for which we established reliable reference energies based on approximate full configuration interaction theory, to assess the performance of single‐reference coupled‐cluster theory up to the CCSDTQ(P) excitation level. While RHF‐based CCSD(T) theory suffered dramatic errors, in one case exceeding 220 kcal mol−1, we show that the use of broken‐symmetry (BS) or Kohn‐Sham (KS) orbital references yields substantially improved CCSD(T) results. Further, the EOM‐SF‐CCSD(T)(a)* approach met the reference data with excellent accuracy. We applied the KS‐CCSD(T*)‐F12b variant as high‐level part of an ONIOM(KS‐CC:DFT) scheme to reinvestigate the reactivity of the full Pt(II) and Pd(II) metallonitrenes. The revised reaction pathway energetics provide a detailed mechanistic rationale for the experimental observations.
Synchronous ovarian and Bartholin gland carcinoma: Case report and review of literature
Authors: El‐Tawab Sally S. , Kehoe Sean
Published: May 2023

To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of synchronous ovarian and vulva (Bartholin gland) cancer. A postmenopausal woman presented with a complex multiloculated left adnexal mass and 2‐cm right Bartholin gland mass. CA 125 was 59 IU/mL. Computed tomography of chest, abdomen, and pelvis showed a very large (32 × 13.5 × 22.5 cm) complex mass arising from the pelvis and extending to the level of the T12/L1 disk space. A right Bartholin mass with suspicious right inguinal nodes was seen. Midline laparotomy, total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo‐oophrectomy, infracolic omentectomy, pelvic peritoneal biopsies, and peritoneal washings were carried out. Wide local excision of the right Bartholin gland mass was carried out in the same setting. Histopathology came back as Stage 2B left ovarian clear‐cell carcinoma and synchronous right Bartholin gland adenoid cystic carcinoma with lymphovascular invasion, incompletely excised, staged at least FIGO Stage 1B. Following local multidisciplinary team discussion and positron emission tomography scan review, the local committee agreed to start three cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy then proceed with Bartholin gland scar re‐excision and bilateral groin lymph node dissection. After the three cycles, the groin lymph nodes came back as metastatic adenocarcinoma with overall morphologic and immunohistochemical features consistent with metastatic ovarian clear‐cell carcinoma. Postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy was given. Initial follow‐up period over 9 months was uneventful.
Estradiol on trigger day: Irrelevant to live birth rates of fresh cycles but positively associated with cumulative live birth rates
Authors: Wang Meng , Jin Lei , Shi Juanzi , Mao Yundong , Zhang Cuilian , Huang Rui , Liang Xiaoyan
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the effects of estradiol (E2) on trigger day on cumulative live birth rates (CLBRs), and pregnancy outcomes after fresh and frozen–thawed embryo transfer (FET).

Methods

This multicenter retrospective cohort study included 42 315 patients from five reproductive centers. Six subgroups were divided according to E2 on trigger day (<1000, 1000–2000, 2000–3000, 3000–4000, 4000–5000, >5000 pg/mL). Smooth curve fitting and nonlinear mixed‐effects models were used.

Results

When E2 was <5500 pg/mL, the CLBR increased by 10% for every 1000 pg/mL increase in E2. When E2 was between 5500 and 13 281 pg/mL, CLBR increased by 1.8% for every 1000 pg/mL increase in E2. When E2 was >13 281 pg/mL, CLBR decreased by 3% for every 1000 pg/mL increase in E2. From group E2 < 1000 to group E2 > 5000 pg/mL, pregnancy and live birth rates in fresh cycles were not related to E2. The live birth rate after FET was higher in the E2 ≥ 5000 pg/mL group than in the E2 < 1000 pg/mL group (odds ratio [OR] 4.03, and 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.74–4.35; adjusted OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.05–1.37).

Conclusion

CLBR is associated with E2 on trigger day in a segmented manner. Pregnancy and live birth rates in fresh cycles were not associated with E2. The live birth rate in FET cycles was highest when E2 ≥ 5000 pg/mL.