bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vardenafil Modulates Bladder Contractility Through cGMP-mediated Inhibition of RhoA/Rho Kinase Signaling Pathway in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Morelli Annamaria , Filippi Sandra , Sandner Peter , Fibbi Benedetta , Chavalmane Aravinda K. , Silvestrini Enrico , Sarchielli Erica , Vignozzi Linda , Gacci Mauro , Carini Marco , Vannelli Gabriella B. , Maggi Mario
Published: March 2009

Introduction

Phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5i), the most widely used drugs for erectile dysfunction, could also improve lower urinary tract symptoms, essentially due to overactive bladder (OAB), a condition hypothesized to be a result of an increased RhoA/Rho-kinase (ROCK) signaling. Phosphorylation/inactivation of RhoA by cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-dependent protein kinase (PKG) activity has been described in vascular smooth muscle.

Aim

The aim of this paper was to investigate whether vardenafil-induced cGMP accumulation reduces RhoA/ROCK signaling in bladder.

Methods

Spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), a strain genetically prone to develop OAB, were treated with vardenafil (10 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Wistar-Kyoto rats (WKY) were used as control. In vitro experiments were performed in human bladder smooth muscle cells (hBCs).

Main Outcome Measures

Urodynamic parameters were registered in vivo in anesthetized WKY and SHRs. RhoA/ROCK activity in bladder was evaluated by molecular and functional studies in tissues and cells.

Results

The intercontraction interval and bladder capacity, and were decreased in SHRs and restored by vardenafil. The in vitro relaxant effect of the ROCK inhibitor Y-27632 was higher in bladder strips from SHR than from WKY and reduced by vardenafil. Nω-nitro-L-arginine-methyl-ester (a NO-synthase inhibitor, 40 mg/kg/day during the last week of the 2-week treatment with vardenafil) partially antagonized vardenafil effect on Y-27632 responsiveness. Vardenafil prevented RhoA membrane translocation/activation, decreased ROCK activity, and increased cGMP levels in vivo (rat) and in vitro (hBCs). Exposing hBCs to vardenafil increased Ser188 RhoA phosphorylation, to the same extent as the PDE5-insensitive PKG agonist Sp-8-Br-PET-cGMP. Moreover, vardenafil inhibited several RhoA-dependent functions in hBCs, including smooth muscle gene transcription and endothelin-1-induced migration. These effects were reverted by the PKG inhibitor KT 5823, further suggesting a cGMP/PKG-dependency. In hBCs, vardenafil was active in the low nanomolar range.

Conclusions

This is the first study demonstrating that the effect of vardenafil on OAB could be partially determined by a cGMP-dependent RhoA/ROCK signaling inhibition.
Testosterone Deficiency and Peyronie’s Disease: Pilot Data Suggesting a Significant Relationship
Authors: Moreno Sergio A. , Morgentaler Abraham
Published: March 2009

Introduction

As testosterone (T) has been shown to influence wound healing, and serum T declines in the age group at risk for Peyronie’s disease (PD), we explored the possibility that low serum T may be associated with PD.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between serum T concentrations and features of PD.

Methods

Medical records were reviewed for 121 consecutive patients with PD seen over a 2-year period. All patients were assessed for sociodemographic data, medical history, comorbid medical conditions, findings on physical examination, and severity of curvature. Laboratory testing included serum concentrations of total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT). Testosterone deficiency (TD) was defined as TT values less than 300 ng/dL and/or FT less than 1.5 ng/dL.

Main Outcome Measures

Prevalence of TD in men with PD and correlation of TT and FT with severity of curvature and plaque size.

Results

Mean patient age was 53.9 ± 10.6 years (range 28–77). Penile curvature was 50.2 ± 23.6 degrees (range 10–120). Mean TT was 411.6 ± 203.6 ng/dL (range 69–877), and mean FT was 1.12 ± 0.58 ng/dL (range 0.13–5.06). Low T was identified in 29.5% by TT alone and in 74.4% overall. Severity of curvature was greater for men with TD compared with men with normal T (54.3 vs. 37.1 degrees, P = 0.006). Men with low FT had greater penile curvature than men with normal FT (37.5 vs. 55.9 degrees, respectively, P = 0.003). Severity of penile curvature correlated significantly with FT (r = −0.314, P = 0.016) and estradiol/T (r = 0.476, P = 0.0001) but not TT (r = −0.199, P = 0.138).

Conclusions

This pilot study suggests a possibly important relationship between low T and PD. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm this relationship.
Severe hip and knee pain in a man with chronic tophaceous gout
Authors: TOLIN Maria Cristina C. , NAVARRA Sandra V.
Published: March 2009

Gout is a common rheumatologic condition with characteristic clinical presentations during the acute arthritis and chronic tophaceous stages. Because of this, there is a tendency to overlook rare but important conditions which are independent of, but can co‐exist with gout. This case of severe hip and knee pain in a patient with tophaceous gout takes the reader on a problem‐solving exercise which simulates the analytical processes and decisions made in the clinic.
Comparison of aspiration and nonaspiration techniques for obtaining cytologic samples from the canine and feline spleen
Authors: LeBlanc Casey J. , Head Laurie L. , Fry Michael M.
Published: March 2009

Background:Ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspiration of the spleen is commonly used in the diagnostic evaluation of veterinary patients. Techniques using suction delivered through a 6–20‐cm3syringe are the most commonly described means of obtaining cytologic samples of the spleen. Comparison studies of various human lesions have shown nonaspiration techniques to produce equal or superior cytologic specimens with less blood than specimens obtained using aspiration techniques.

Objective:The purpose of this study was to compare the quality of splenic cytology specimens obtained using aspiration and nonaspiration techniques.

Methods:Client‐owned dogs (n=24) and cats (n=7) receiving an abdominal ultrasound at the University of Tennessee College of Veterinary Medicine were enrolled in the study between January and June 2005. Samples were obtained from patients with and without sonographic splenic abnormalities. Two clinical pathologists, working independently and blinded to the method of sample collection, graded the cytologic specimens using a subjective scoring system for cellularity, amount of blood, and preservation of cellular morphology.

Results:Agreement between the 2 independent observers was good. Direct comparison of the 2 techniques showed that samples obtained by the nonaspiration method had higher cellularity (P=.0002), less blood (P=.0023), and similar cell morphology (P=1.0000) compared with samples obtained by the aspiration method.

Conclusion:These results suggest the nonaspiration technique is a superior method for obtaining a high‐quality cytologic specimen from the canine and feline spleen.
What is your diagnosis? Shoulder mass in a dog with lameness
Authors: Boes Katie , Zimmerman Kurt , Saunders Geoffrey , O'Rourke Laurie , Crawford Natalie , Ober Christopher , Lambrechts Nicolaas , Miller Jonathan
Published: March 2009

Abstract: An adult castrated male Golden Retriever of unknown age was presented with a history of weight loss and progressive left thoracic limb lameness. On physical examination, a solid mass was palpated on the left scapula that had areas of lysis on radiographs and an area of cortical bone loss on ultrasound. Hepatomegaly, abdominal distension, and numerous intra‐abdominal soft tissue masses were also found. Fine‐needle aspirates of the scapula and several abdominal masses contained numerous free nuclei mixed with fewer individualized, intact cells that were round in shape and rarely formed small sheets. The cells had high nuclear to cytoplasmic ratios, central nuclei, coarsely stippled chromatin, 1–2 prominent nucleoli, and basophilic cytoplasm with indistinct cell borders. The cytopathologic interpretation was neuroendocrine neoplasia, either metastatic or multicentric. The dog was subsequently euthanized and based on gross and histologic findings at necropsy, a diagnosis of pheochromocytoma with multiple metastases was made. The neoplastic cells stained positive with Grimelius stain and were immunoreactive for synaptophysin and chromogranin A. Pheochromocytomas are rare tumors in dogs and uncommonly undergo distant metastasis, especially to bone.
Dynamic Optimization of the Grinding Process in Batch Production
Authors: Lee Cheol W.
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a novel dynamic optimization framework for the grinding process in batch production. The grinding process exhibits time-varying characteristics due to the progressive wear of the grinding wheel. Nevertheless, many existing frameworks for the grinding process can optimize only 1 cycle at a time, thereby generating suboptimal solutions. Moreover, dynamic scheduling of dressing operations in response to process feedback would require significant human intervention with existing methods. We propose a unique dynamic programming–evolution strategy framework to optimize a series of grinding cycles depending on the wheel condition and batch size. In the proposed framework, a dynamic programming module dynamically determines the frequency and parameter of wheel dressing while the evolution strategy locates the optimal operating parameters of each cycle subject to the constraints on the operating ranges and part quality. Case studies based on experimental data are conducted to demonstrate the advantages of the proposed method over conventional approaches.
Promoter Characterization in the AT-Rich Genome of the Obligate Endosymbiont “
Candidatus
Blochmannia floridanus”
Authors: Stoll Sascha , Feldhaar Heike , Gross Roy
Published: March 2009

The characterization of transcriptional start sites of 14 genes encoded by the extremely AT-rich genome of “
Candidatus
Blochmannia floridanus” revealed a high degree of conservation with the RpoD promoter consensus sequence of the free-living relative
Escherichia coli
. Moreover, in agreement with the presence of the alternative heat shock sigma factor RpoH in “
Ca
. Blochmannia,” typical RpoH-dependent promoters were identified. However, no heat shock response resembling that of
E. coli
could be detected in “
Ca
. Blochmannia.”
Identification and Characterization of OscR, a Transcriptional Regulator Involved in Osmolarity Adaptation in
Vibrio cholerae
Authors: Shikuma Nicholas J. , Yildiz Fitnat H.
Published: March 2009

Vibrio cholerae
is a facultative human pathogen. In its aquatic habitat and as it passes through the digestive tract,
V. cholerae
must cope with fluctuations in salinity. We analyzed the genome-wide transcriptional profile of
V. cholerae
grown at different NaCl concentrations and determined that the expression of compatible solute biosynthesis and transporter genes, virulence genes, and genes involved in adhesion and biofilm formation is differentially regulated. We determined that salinity modulates biofilm formation, and this response was mediated through the transcriptional regulators VpsR and VpsT. Additionally, a transcriptional regulator controlling an osmolarity adaptation response was identified. This regulator, OscR (
os
molarity
c
ontrolled
r
egulator), was found to modulate the transcription of genes involved in biofilm matrix production and motility in a salinity-dependent manner.
oscR
mutants were less motile and exhibited enhanced biofilm formation only under low-salt conditions.
The Purpose of Leviticus 24 within its Literary Context
Authors: Trevaskis Leigh
Published: March 2009

This paper argues that the purpose of Lev 24, situated as it is between the calendrical concerns of Lev 23 and 25, is discernible when the symbolism of its prescriptions (vv. 1-9) for lighting the tabernacle "lamp" (měnôrāh) and the provision of 12 loaves is considered. First, the "light" (mā'ôr) of the měnôrāh represents the "lights" (mě'ōrōt) of Gen 1:14-16 which govern the "occasions" (miqrā'ê) prescribed in these framing chapters. Second, the 12 loaves positioned under this "light" represent the ideal of a holy Israel, paused in worship of YHWH on these "occasions". It is in the ensuing narrative (vv. 10-23) that the ideal symbolised in vv. 1-9 is extended to the life of Israel. The blasphemy of the "sojourner" (gēr) provides a foil for the legislator to present the "rules of talion" which reveal the extent to which this ideal of holiness should be reflected among the Israelites: it is required even of the "sojourner".
Development of Accelerated Aging Test Methodology and Specimen for Bonded CFRP Systems
Authors: Deng J. , Tanner J. E. , Dolan C. W. , Mukai D.
Published: March 2009

Determining long-term behavior of bonded CFRP systems requires developing an accelerated aging test method for CFRP applications. This paper examines the development of test methodology and specimen for both flexure and direct tension behavior of bonded CFRP materials using a specimen submerged in a water bath subject to elevated temperature. Test results of three commercial CFRP systems are presented. A discussion of accelerated aging is included in the developmental effort.
Weight Status in the First 6 Months of Life and Obesity at 3 Years of Age
Authors: Taveras Elsie M. , Rifas-Shiman Sheryl L. , Belfort Mandy B. , Kleinman Ken P. , Oken Emily , Gillman Matthew W.
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE. The goal was to examine the associations of weight-for-length at birth and at 6 months with obesity at 3 years of age.

METHODS. We studied 559 children in Project Viva, an ongoing, prospective, cohort study of pregnant women and their children. We measured length and weight at birth, 6 months, and 3 years. Our main exposures were weight-for-length z score at birth adjusted for gestational age and weight-for-length z score at 6 months adjusted for weight-for-length z score at birth. We used multivariate regression analyses to predict the independent effects of birth weight-for-length z score and, separately, 6-month weight-for-length z score on BMI z score, the sum of subscapular and triceps skinfold thicknesses, and obesity (BMI for age and gender of ≥95th percentile) at age 3.

RESULTS. Mean weights at birth, 6 months, and 3 years were 3.55, 8.15, and 15.67 kg, respectively. Corresponding lengths were 49.9, 66.9, and 97.4 cm. At 3 years, 48 children (9%) were obese. After adjustment for confounding variables and birth weight-for-length z score, each increment in 6-month weight-for-length z score was associated with higher BMI z scores, higher sums of subscapular and triceps skinfold thicknesses, and increased odds of obesity at age 3. The predicted obesity prevalence among children in the highest quartiles of both birth and 6-month weight-for-length z scores was 40%, compared with 1% for children in the lowest quartiles of both. Whereas birth weight-for-length z scores were associated with higher BMI z scores, the magnitude of effect was smaller than that of weight-for-length z scores at 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS. More-rapid increases in weight for length in the first 6 months of life were associated with sharply increased risk of obesity at 3 years of age. Changes in weight status in infancy may influence risk of later obesity more than weight status at birth.
Chromium(VI) Reducing Native Microorganisms for Remediation of Chromium Eco-toxicity in Environment of Bangladesh
Authors: Rafiqullah Iftekhar M , Hossain AMM Maruf , Ilias Mohammad , Hoq M Mozammel
Published: March 2009

Feeds and fertilizer production from tanned skin-cut wastes is the most direct phenomenon of chromium eco-toxicity leading to food chain contamination in Bangladesh. Tanning industries of Hazaribagh at Dhaka process some 220 t of hide per day with release of 600-1000 Kg tanned skin-cut waste (SCW) per ton processed hide. The SCW is protein-rich and unscientifically used to produce poultry and fish feeds, and organic fertilizer. A huge migration of chromium can happen into poultry products, fish and vegetables, and further bio-magnify into food chain. The target population is also huge. It is reported that feed ingredients produced from SCW contained chromium at levels as high as 2.49%. As Cr(VI) is the most toxic species of chromium, reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) prior to be used as feed ingredients and fertilizers can ensure safer input of chromium in toxicological point of view. Samples have been collected to isolate microorganisms from effluent sites of Hazaribagh tanning area using Lauria-Bertani medium with added Cr(VI) as K2Cr2O7. The successful as well as apparently differing colonies (isolates IF-10 to IF-12, IF-16, and IF-19 to IF-23) have been studied for growth characterization under differing Cr(VI) concentrations up to 1500 mg/L. Cultural and biochemical tests of the isolates have narrowed the range into 3 strains. These strains have been identified by 16s rRNA gene sequence analysis. The isolates are found to be Escherichia sp. (Isolate IF-10 to IF-12, Strain IFR-I), Staphylococcus aureus (Isolate IF-16, Strain IFR-II), and Pediococcus pentosaceus (Isolate IF-19 to IF-23, Strain IFRIII). The organisms have been studied for Cr (VI) reduction-ability in growth dependent manner which are found successful up to 82.88 % for Staphylococcus aureus, and 100 % for Escherichia sp. and Pediococcus pentosaceus within 24 h. Key words: Bacteriology, Enzymatic reduction, Bioremediation, Chromium eco-toxicity Â  doi: 10.3329/bjsir.v43i4.2236 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(4), 455-466, 2008
On the Study of Jacobi Fields in Riemannian Manifolds
Authors: Ahmed Khondokar M
Published: March 2009

A new approach of finding a Jacobi field equation with the relation between curvature and geodesics of a Riemanian manifold M has been derived. Using this derivation we have made an attempt to find a standard form of this equation involving sectional curvature K and other related objects. Key words: Riemanign curvature, Sectional curvature, Jacobi equation, Jacobifield. Â Â  doi: 10.3329/bjsir.v43i4.2242 Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(4), 521-528, 2008
Investigating species boundaries in the Giliopsis group of Ipomopsis (Polemoniaceae): Strong discordance among molecular and morphological markers
Authors: Wood Troy E. , Nakazato Takuya
Published: March 2009

As a first step in elucidating mechanisms of speciation in the Giliopsis group of Ipomopsis (Polemoniaceae), we examined patterns of morphological and genetic differentiation and crossability. This group comprises three species that diverged very recently: two perennials, I. guttata and I. tenuifolia, and one annual, I. effusa. Analysis of phenotypic variation established that the three species are distinct for floral characters, and this differentiation is maintained in a locality containing both perennial species. Next, we assessed the genealogical relationships with AFLPs. All sampled individuals of I. effusa clustered together, a result in accord with its genetic isolation. The perennials, which retain interfertility, were not resolved as sister taxa. Rather, individuals sampled from the single I. guttata population that is sympatric with I. tenuifolia were genetically more similar to I. tenuifolia samples than they were to conspecifics. This pattern may be due to substantial introgression of I. tenuifolia genomic regions that do not contribute to floral phenotype in I. guttata. Our result adds to mounting evidence that plant species, as defined by morphological characters, are often not genomically cohesive. Taken together, our data warrant caution in delimiting species with genetic markers alone, and, importantly, suggest that selection on species‐diagnostic morphological characters can be sufficiently strong to counteract extensive gene flow.
THE SLIPPAGE OF THE DRIVING WHEELS OF A TRACTOR IN A CULTIVATED SOIL AND STUBBLE
Authors: Janulevičius Algirdas , Giedra Kazimieras
Published: March 2009

The article analyses the relation between the slippage of driving wheels and the traction characteristics of a tractor. The indicators for estimating wheel slippage are a coefficient of tractor weight force utilization for driving wheel grip and a coefficient of the ratio of trailer and tractor mass. The dependencies of wheel slippage on the weight utilization coefficient of tractors and the ratio of trailer and tractor mass are overviewed. The presented and carried out analysis of the equations of weight utilization coefficient ϕ g determined its dependencies on rolling resistance coefficients f of a means of transport, working speed v and acceleration aon the mass ratio of a trailer and tractor mp/mt . The results of experimental research on acceleration and constant speed regimes in a cultivated soil and stubble are presented. The dependencies of slippage on the ratio of trailer and tractor mass and the weight utilisation coefficient of a tractor and trailer are viewed.
Breast Milk Enema and Meconium Evacuation Among Preterm Infants
Authors: Zheng Liqiang , Gai Li , Wu Yani , Kong Chaonan , Sun Fangli , Gao Jinyue , Yuan Wei , Liu Min , Jiang Hong , Tuo Nan , Yang Fan
Published: April 2024

Importance

Delayed meconium evacuation and delayed achievement of full enteral feeding among premature infants are associated with poor short- and long-term outcomes. Identifying a more effective and safer enema for meconium evacuation is imperative for improving neonatal care.

Objective

To examine whether breast milk enemas can shorten the time to complete meconium evacuation and achievement of full enteral feeding for preterm infants.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized, open-label, parallel-group, single-center clinical trial was conducted from September 1, 2019, to September 30, 2022, among 286 preterm infants with a gestational age of 23 to 30 weeks in the neonatal ward of the Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University in Shenyang.

Interventions

Preterm infants were randomly assigned to receive either breast milk enemas or normal saline enemas 48 hours after birth.

Main Outcome and Measures

The primary outcomes were time to complete meconium evacuation and time to achieve full enteral feeding. Secondary outcomes were duration of hospitalization, weight at discharge, and duration of total parenteral nutrition. Intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses were conducted.

Results

In total, 286 preterm infants (mean [SD] gestational age, 198.8 [7.9] days; 166 boys [58.0%]) were eligible and included in this study. A total of 145 infants were randomized to the normal saline group, and 141 were randomized to the breast milk group. The time to achieve complete meconium evacuation was significantly shorter in the breast milk group than in the normal saline group (–2.2 days; 95% CI, −3.2 to −1.2 days). The time to achieve full enteral feeding was also significantly shorter in the breast milk group than in the normal saline group (−4.6 days; 95% CI, −8.0 to −1.2 days). The duration of total parenteral nutrition was significantly shorter in the breast milk group than in the normal saline group (−4.6 days; 95% CI, −8.6 to −1.0 days). There were no clinically notable differences in any other secondary or safety outcomes between the 2 groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial testing the effects of breast milk enema on meconium evacuation, breast milk reduced the time to achieve complete meconium evacuation and achieve full enteral feeding for preterm infants with a gestational age of 23 to 30 weeks. Subgroup analyses highlight the need for tailored interventions based on gestational age considerations.

Trial Registration

isrctn.org Identifier: ISRCTN17847514
Universal Tobacco Screening and Opt-Out Treatment Referral Strategy Among Patients Diagnosed With Cancer by Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Bates-Pappas Gleneara E. , Schofield Elizabeth , Chichester Lou-Anne R. , Kotsen Chris , Carter-Bawa Lisa , Warren Graham W. , Ostroff Jamie S.
Published: April 2024

This quality improvement study examines whether a universal screening and opt-out referral model could promote racial and ethnic equity in access and use of tobacco treatment among patients with cancer.
Research Progress of New Generation of Aluminum–Lithium Alloys Alloying
Authors: Xiao Guizhi , An Ru , Yang Jixue , Ma Jinlei
Published: April 2024

Aluminum–lithium alloy, being the lightest aluminum‐based alloy, holds significant potential for applications in the aerospace and military sectors. Currently, alloying treatment stands as a crucial method for enhancing the comprehensive performance of aluminum–lithium alloy. This article provides an overview of the production process of aluminum–lithium alloys, encompassing smelting and deformation processing characteristics. Additionally, it outlines the developmental history of the chemical composition for the primary grades of aluminum–lithium alloy, detailing the copper (Cu) and lithium (Li) content of the main alloying elements. And discusses the influence of various microalloying elements on the alloy's properties. Additionally, it summarizes the structure, properties, and precipitation morphology of the three primary strengthening phases formed by the alloying of aluminum–lithium alloys: T1 (), (), and (). The analysis also examines the impact of anisotropy on the mechanical properties of the primary dispersion. Finally, the article addresses the challenges involved in alloying aluminum–lithium alloys and proposes key research directions for element composition design.
Minocycline‐Loaded Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles for the Enhanced Treatment of Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Xu Xiang , Han Zhihui , Li Dong , Xu Xingshun , Liu Yaobo , Cao Cong , Tao Jin , Cheng Jian , Zhang John H , Cheng Liang , Chen Gang
Published: April 2024

Inflammatory responses and neuronal ferroptosis, which are associated with abnormal accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), exert crucial damaging effects on the brain after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). In this study, minocycline (MC)‐loaded cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2‐MC) are constructed for combined ICH treatment. Ultra‐small CeO2 (≈5 nm) synthesized via a high‐temperature approach exhibits powerful free‐radical scavenging and iron‐chelating abilities. In vitro experiments demonstrated that CeO2‐MC effectively attenuated the ROS levels in mouse microglial cells and neurons following oxyhemoglobin stimulation. In addition, CeO2‐MC exhibits iron chelation properties and stabilizes the mitochondrial membrane potential, thereby promoting anti‐inflammatory responses and preventing neuronal ferroptosis. In an intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) mouse model, CeO2‐MC exhibited robust free radical scavenging capabilities and demonstrated the ability to preserve mitochondrial morphology and function, mitigate brain edema, and maintain blood–brain barrier integrity by inhibiting neuroinflammation and ferroptosis. Neurobehavioral tests demonstrated that CeO2‐MC significantly ameliorated spatial learning ability and sensorimotor function after ICH. Consequently, a general strategy using CeO2 nanoparticles to augment the therapeutic efficacy of MC highlights a new perspective for the in‐depth treatment of ICH.
Rational Design of Multiple Heterostructures with Synergistic Effect for Efficient and Stable Hydrogen Evolution Toward Industrial Alkaline Water Splitting
Authors: Xiong Hao , Du Chengfeng , Ma Zelin , Zhi Richeng , Hao Shuangshuang , Zhao Xiangyuan , Liu Zhe , Xu Fei , Wang Hongqiang
Published: April 2024

Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) via alkaline water splitting holds great promise for industrial clean hydrogen production but is frustrated by limited catalytic activity and inferior stability under high current density. Elaborate manipulating of heterostructure on robust catalytic electrodes is essential but challenging for accelerating HER kinetics with high durability. Herein, a robust nickel mesh electrode, offering high mechanical stability, is directly engineered with catalytic layers of multiple heterostructures (r‐Mn–Ni/CoP) via facile one‐pot electrodeposition followed by surface reconstruction strategy. The abundant heterostructures composed of crystalline CoP, NiP, amorphous region, and additional Mn doping considerably manipulate the electronic structure with optimized charge transfer; while the in situ surface‐reconstructed hydrophilic nanoflakes enable the rapid wetting of active sites to the electrolyte. Consequently, the r‐Mn–Ni/CoP requires only 134 mV overpotential at the current density of 100 mA cm−2, superior to monophasic and undoped samples, and the majority of reported HER catalysts. Remarkably, an electrolyzer with r‐Mn–Ni/CoP on a nickel mesh cathode demonstrates extraordinary activity with a voltage of 1.734 V at 300 mA cm−2 and stable operation of 800 h. The finding provides a feasible strategy for the fabrication of nonprecious‐metal‐based HER electrocatalysts with high activity and stability toward industrial water electrolysis.
Advancing Triplet Exciton Harvesting Through Heavy Atom Selenium Manipulation in Multiple Resonance Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescent Emitters
Authors: Chen Zijian , Liu Denghui , Li Mengke , Jiao Yihang , Yang Zhihai , Liu Kunkun , Su Shi‐Jian
Published: April 2024

In the development of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) with high efficiency and minimal efficiency roll‐off, fast reverse intersystem crossing (RISC) in multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence (MR‐TADF) materials is critical. The RISC process is typically hindered by insufficient spin‐orbital coupling (SOC). Incorporating heavy atom selenium into the MR‐TADF structure has the potential to enhance SOC through the heavy atom effect. However, the specific placement of selenium within the molecule results in different enhancements of SOC, with the detailed interplay between these factors yet to be elucidated. The introduction of a selenium‐containing moiety, phenoxaselenine, into the MR‐TADF structure at different substituted positions is undertaken, revealing that the molecule with 3‐substituted phenoxaselenine exhibits faster RISC transition and a significant increase in SOC between higher triplet excited states and S1 state, compared to the molecule with 2‐substituted phenoxaselenine. Significantly reduced efficiency roll‐off is achieved for the narrow‐band emission OLEDs based on the molecule with 3‐substituted phenoxaselenine owing to the enhanced heavy atom effect, giving an impressive external quantum efficiency above 20% even under 10 000 cd m−2 in the corresponding OLED device. These results underscore the potential of strategic heavy atom effect manipulation in MR‐TADF materials for efficient spin‐flipping.
A Ligand‐Directed Spatial Regulation to Structural and Functional Tunability in Aggregation‐Induced Emission Luminogen‐Functionalized Organic–Inorganic Nanoassemblies
Authors: Chen Xirui , Li Zhan‐Wei , Duan Hong , Sun Yu‐Wei , Su Yu , Peng Shiyu , Guo Yuqian , Xiong Yonghua , Tang Ben Zhong , Huang Xiaolin
Published: April 2024

Aggregation‐induced emission luminogen (AIEgen)‐functionalized organic–inorganic hybrid nanoparticles (OINPs) are an emerging category of multifunctional nanomaterials with vast potential applications. The spatial arrangement and positioning of AIEgens and inorganic compounds in AIEgen‐functionalized OINPs determine the structures, properties, and functionalities of the self‐assembled nanomaterials. In this work, a facile and general emulsion self‐assembly tactic for synthesizing well‐defined AIEgen‐functionalized OINPs is proposed by coassembling alkane chain‐functionalized inorganic nanoparticles with hydrophobic organic AIEgens. As a proof of concept, the self‐assembly and structural evolution of plasmonic‐fluorescent hybrid nanoparticles (PFNPs) from concentric circle to core shell and then to Janus structures is demonstrated by using alkane chain‐modified AuNPs and AIEgens as building blocks. The spatial position of AuNPs in the signal nanocomposite is controlled by varying the alkane ligand length and density on the AuNP surface. The mechanism behind the formation of various PFNP nanostructures is also elucidated through experiments and theoretical simulation. The obtained PFNPs with diverse structures exhibit spatially tunable optical and photothermal properties for advanced applications in multicolor and multimode immunolabeling and photothermal sterilization. This work presents an innovative synthetic approach of constructing AIEgen‐functionalized OINPs with diverse structures, compositions, and functionalities, thereby championing the progressive development of these OINPs.
Upcycling Waste Biomass–Production of Porous Carbonaceous Supports from Paper Mill Sludge and Application to CO2 Conversion
Authors: Ribeiro Mónica Stanton , Lima Maria M. R. A. , Vilarigues Márcia , Zanatta Marcileia , Corvo Marta C.
Published: April 2024

The urgent need for sustainable waste management strategies has led to the exploration of innovative approaches for the valorization of waste. In this study, a method is proposed for carbonizing waste biomass materials, particularly paper mill waste sludges (primary and biological) and knots, to produce porous carbonaceous supports. Through an initial hydrothermal carbonization followed by carbonization with nitrogen flow, porous carbon materials are successfully generated. The findings of this investigation validate the successful generation of effective carbonaceous supports utilizing waste biomass materials. These materials are then evaluated for their effectiveness as porous supports in the ionic liquid‐catalyzed cycloaddition reaction of CO2 to styrene oxide, achieving a remarkable conversion rate of up to 98% and an impressive selectivity exceeding 99%. Additionally, the results underscore the significant impact of the selected IL on the overall conversion process. Overall, this study presents a promising pathway for the valorization of paper mill waste sludge through the production of porous carbon materials with potential applications in catalysis and beyond.
Revealing the MRI‐Contrast in Optically Cleared Brains
Authors: Oz Shimrit , Saar Galit , Olszakier Shunit , Heinrich Ronit , Kompanets Mykhail O. , Berlin Shai
Published: April 2024

The current consensus holds that optically‐cleared specimens are unsuitable for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI); exhibiting absence of contrast. Prior studies combined MRI with tissue‐clearing techniques relying on the latter's ability to eliminate lipids, thereby fostering the assumption that lipids constitute the primary source of ex vivo MRI‐contrast. Nevertheless, these findings contradict an extensive body of literature that underscores the contribution of other features to contrast. Furthermore, it remains unknown whether non‐delipidating clearing methods can produce MRI‐compatible specimens or whether MRI‐contrast can be re‐established. These limitations hinder the development of multimodal MRI‐light‐microscopy (LM) imaging approaches. This study assesses the relation between MRI‐contrast, and delipidation in optically‐cleared whole brains following different tissue‐clearing approaches. It is demonstrated that uDISCO and ECi‐brains are MRI‐compatible upon tissue rehydration, despite both methods’ substantial delipidating‐nature. It is also demonstrated that, whereas Scale‐clearing preserves most lipids, Scale‐cleared brain lack MRI‐contrast. Furthermore, MRI‐contrast is restored to lipid‐free CLARITY‐brains without introducing lipids. Our results thereby dissociate between the essentiality of lipids to MRI‐contrast. A tight association is found between tissue expansion, hyperhydration and loss of MRI‐contrast. These findings then enabled us to develop a multimodal MRI‐LM‐imaging approach, opening new avenues to bridge between the micro‐ and mesoscale for biomedical research and clinical applications.
Stress Prerelease‐Driven Dendrite‐Free Growth Mechanism to Stabilize Zn Anodes
Authors: Wu Xuyang , Yuan Wei , Wu Yaopeng , Wang Chun , Xue Lanchen , Zhou Yangfan , Zhang Xiaoqing , Jiang Simin , Zhao Bote , Chen Yu , Yang Chenghao , Ding Liangxin , Tang Yong , Ding Xinrui
Published: April 2024

The mechanical properties of zinc anodes in rechargeable zinc‐based batteries are neglected. Indeed, electrode stress in zinc crystallization (ESZC) contributes to excess chemical potential under enormous deposition stress, severely impacting zinc crystal patterns and reaction kinetics. Herein, a stress prerelease mechanism to minimize ESZC and drive dendrite‐free zinc anode growth is proposed. The internal stress of the freestanding electrode is prereleased by full‐contact soft‐substrate constraints during fabrication. Under the compression of crystallization stress, the freestanding electrode rapidly deforms and self‐releases into microstrains to reduce ESZC. Furthermore, the weakening of ESZC under the stress‐prerelease mechanism is modified to the actual reaction kinetics, which establishes a direct link between electrode stress and zinc deposition pattern. The processes of crystalline stress transfer and self‐release under the stress prerelease mechanism are revealed using in situ strain monitors. Stress‐prereleased freestanding electrodes drive uniform zinc nucleation and subsequent radial diffusion, guiding Zn epitaxial growth on the nanofibers surface. During repeated deposition/stripping, the stress prerelease mechanism steadily diminishes the possibility of dendrite growth and guarantees the stable operation of dendrite‐free zinc anodes. The stress prereleased freestanding electrodes induce symmetric and full cells to achieve stable and excellent performance.
Brain Iron Dysregulation in Iron Deficiency Anemia‐Related Restless Leg Syndrome Revealed by Neuron‐Derived Extracellular Vesicles: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Manolopoulos Apostolos , York William , Pucha Krishna Ananthu , Earley Christopher J. , Kapogiannis Dimitrios
Published: April 2024

Brain iron deficiency (ID) and, to a degree, systemic ID have been implicated in restless leg syndrome (RLS) pathogenesis. Previously, we found increased ferritin in neuron‐derived extracellular vesicles (NDEVs) in RLS, suggesting a mechanism for depleting intracellular iron by secreting ferritin‐loaded NDEVs. In this study, we hypothesized that increased NDEV ferritin occurs even in RLS accompanied by systemic ID and that neuronal intracellular iron depletion in RLS also manifests as NDEV abnormalities in other iron regulatory proteins, specifically, decreased transferrin receptor (TfR) and increased ferroportin. To address these hypotheses, we studied 71 women with ID anemia, 36 with RLS, and 35 without RLS. Subjects with RLS again showed higher NDEV ferritin and also decreased TfR, suggesting diminished neuronal capacity for iron uptake. Findings inform a more complete understanding of the pathogenic role of neuronal iron homeostasis and dissociate it from peripheral ID. ANN NEUROL 2024;96:560–564
Insights into the Distinct Behaviors between Bifunctional and Binary Organoborane Catalysts through Terpolymerization of Epoxide, CO2, and Anhydride
Authors: Xie Rui , Wang Yuhui , Li Shuai , Li Bo , Xu Jie , Liu Jinqian , He Yuchen , Yang Guan‐Wen , Wu Guang‐Peng
Published: April 2024

Alkyl borane compounds‐mediated polymerizations have expanded to Lewis pair polymerization, free radical polymerization, ionic ring‐opening polymerization, and polyhomologation. The bifunctional organoborane catalysts that contain the Lewis acid and ammonium or phosphonium salt in one molecule have demonstrated superior catalytic performance for ring‐opening polymerization of epoxides and ring‐opening copolymerization of epoxides and CO2 than their two‐component analogues, i.e., the blend of organoborane and ammonium or phosphonium salt. To explore the origin of the differences of the one‐component and two‐component organoborane catalysts, here we conducted a systematic investigation on the catalytic performances of these two kinds of organoborane catalysts via terpolymerization of epoxide, carbon dioxide and anhydride. The resultant terpolymers produced independently by bifunctional and binary organoborane catalyst exhibited distinct microstructures, where a series of gradient polyester‐polycarbonate terpolymers with varying polyester content were afforded using the bifunctional catalyst, while tapering diblock terpolymers were obtained using the binary system. The bifunctional catalyst enhances the competitiveness of CO2 insertion than anhydride, which leads to the premature incorporation of CO2 into the polymer chains and ultimately results in the formation of gradient terpolymers. DFT calculations revealed the role of electrostatic interaction and charge distribution caused by intramolecular synergistic effect for bifunctional organoborane catalyst.
Morphological diversity of saber‐tooth upper canines and its functional implications
Authors: Shelbourne Caitlin D. , Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: April 2024

Elongated upper canine teeth, commonly known as saber‐teeth, have evolved three times within the sub‐order Feliformia. The species that wielded them flourished throughout the Cenozoic and have historically been separated into two morphological groups: the dirk‐tooths with longer, flatter canines, and the scimitar‐tooths with shorter, serrated teeth. However, quantitative morphological analysis has not been conducted on these teeth to determine the true amount of diversity within the group, and how the upper canine morphology of extant feliforms compared to their extinct relatives has also not been explored. Using Geometric Morphometric analysis, it is shown that saber‐tooth upper canine morphology is exceptionally diverse, with no extant clade having all its members occupy the same morphospace based on tooth length and curvature. Instead, a neutral basal morphospace is observed for all groups and diversification from this basal position is seen as species become more derived. A distinct and consistent scimitar tooth morphology is also not observed within the morphospace. When compared with extant taxa, several saber‐tooth species are seen to be morphologically similar to extant feliforms, several of which exhibit novel dietary strategies in comparison to the obligate carnivore felids. Biomechanical analyses of different actual and theoretical tooth shapes demonstrate that saber‐teeth upper canines further represent a functional compromise between sharpness, curvature, and length on the one hand, and robustness and material investment on the other.
K2[(VOHPO4)2(C2O4)]·2H2O as a high‐potential cathode material for potassium‐ion batteries
Authors: Niu Xiaogang , Li Nan , Chen Yifan , Zhang Jianwen , Yang Yusi , Tan Lulu , Wang Linlin , Zhang Zhe , Fedotov Stanislav S. , Aksyonov Dmitry , Wu Jianghao , Guo Lin , Zhu Yujie
Published: April 2024

Potassium‐ion batteries (KIBs) represent a promising energy storage solution owing to the abundance of potassium resources. The efficacy of KIBs relies significantly on the electrochemical attributes of both their electrode materials and electrolytes. In the current investigation, we synthesized a layered compound K2[(VOHPO4)2(C2O4)]·2H2O via a heterogeneous nucleation approach and assessed its viability as a cathode material for KIBs. When integrated with a salt‐concentrated electrolyte with oxidation stability over 6 V, the compounds exhibit a high discharge potential of 4.1 V (vs. K+/K) alongside a reversible capacity of 106.2 mAh g−1. Furthermore, there is no capacity decay after 500 cycles at 100 mA g−1. This study shows the promise of layered metal organic frameworks as high‐potential materials for KIBs.
New Perspectives of Pt−CeO2 System: Stabilization on MWCNTs for Boosting Activity and Water‐Resistance in CO Oxidation at Ambient Temperatures
Authors: Slavinskaya Elena , Stonkus Olga , Kibis Lidiya , Lashina Elena , Zadesenets Andrey , Kardash Tatyana , Korenev Sergey , Podyacheva Olga , Boronin Andrei
Published: April 2024

The present study elucidates new perspectives regarding the Pt−CeO2 system for CO oxidation. The successful deposition of highly dispersed Pt−CeO2 species onto the surface of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) led to the formation of abnormally active and water‐resistant catalysts. The catalysts were investigated by structural (XRD, TEM), spectral (XPS), and kinetic (TPR‐CO+O2, TPR‐CO, TPR‐H2) methods. The application of TPR‐CO+O2 revealed the remarkably high activity of all Pt−CeO2/MWCNTs catalysts at temperatures below 0 °C. The study of the catalysts at ambient temperature demonstrated high CO conversion in the presence of water vapor at a concentration of 100 ppm CO. The experimental findings suggest that active sites, comprising platinum structures stabilized directly on the surface of MWCNTs, play a pivotal role in the oxidation of CO under humid conditions. A dual‐site approach was employed to develop a kinetic model that effectively describes the experimental data. This model provides valuable insights into the mechanism of wet CO oxidation.
Pathway Selection in Temporal Evolution of Supramolecular Polymers of Ionic π‐Systems: Amphiphilic Organic Solvent Dictates the Fate of Water
Authors: Kotha Srinu , Sahu Rahul , Chandrakant Yadav Aditya , Bejagam Karteek K. , Reddy Sandeep K. , Venkata Rao Kotagiri
Published: April 2024

Understanding solvent‐solute interactions is essential to designing and synthesising soft materials with tailor‐made functions. Although the interaction of the solute with the solvent mixture is more complex than the single solvent medium, solvent mixtures are exciting to unfold several unforeseen phenomena in supramolecular chemistry. Here, we report two unforeseen pathways observed during the hierarchical assembly of cationic perylene diimides (cPDIs) in water and amphiphilic organic solvent (AOS) mixtures. When the aqueous supramolecular polymers (SPs) of cPDIs are injected into AOS, initially kinetically trapped short SPs are formed, which gradually transform into thermodynamically stable high aspect ratio SP networks. Using various experimental and theoretical investigations, we found that this temporal evolution follows two distinct pathways depending on the nature of the water‐AOS interactions. If the AOS is isopropanol (IPA), water is released from cPDIs into bulk IPA due to strong hydrogen bonding interactions, which further decreases the monomer concentration of cPDIs (Pathway‐1). In the case of dioxane AOS, cPDI monomer concentration further increases as water is retained among cPDIs (Pathway‐2) due to relatively weak interactions between dioxane and water. Interestingly, these two pathways are accelerated by external stimuli such as heat and mechanical agitation.
Photo/Mechanical/Acidic Multi‐Stimuli Responses and Information Encryption Design of Acylhydrazone Derivative
Authors: Ye Yang , Wang Dechen , Zhang Yaru , Zhou Xiaomeng , Du Haowen , Yang Sen , Bao Ying , Hao Hongxun , Xie Chuang
Published: April 2024

Stimuli‐responsive crystalline materials have received much attention for being potential candidates of smart materials. However, the occurrence of polymorphism‐driven stimuli responses in crystalline materials remains interesting but rare. Herein, three polymorphs of an acylhydrazone derivative, N′‐[(E)‐(1‐benzofuran‐2‐yl) methylidene] pyridine −4‐carbohydrazide (BFMP) were prepared. Form‐1 undergoes a photomechanical response via E→Z photoisomerization under UV irradiation, accompanied by a decrease in fluorescence intensity and a change from colorless to yellow. Two types of Z→E thermal isomerization mechanisms with significant differences in conversion rate were observed at different temperatures in form‐1. The solid‐melt‐solid transition has a faster conversion rate compared to the solid‐solid transition due to freedom from lattice confinement. The transition from form‐2 to form‐3 can be achieved under grinding, coupled with a significant decrease in fluorescence intensity. The similar molecular stacking pattern of form‐2 and form‐3 provides a structural basis for the grinding‐induced crystalline transition behavior. In addition, the presence of the pyridine moiety imparts an acidochromic property. The combination of photochromism and acidochromism explores the possible applications of acylhydrazone derivatives in information encryption.