bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Biologics in Subgroups of Axial Spondyloarthritis Based on Magnetic Resonance Imaging and C‐Reactive Protein: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Karmacharya Paras , Gupta Sonia , Shahukhal Ravi , Khanal Raju , Murad M. Hassan , Gensler Lianne S.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To determine if the efficacy of biologics differ based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and C‐reactive protein (CRP) findings.

Methods

We compared four subgroups (MRI+/CRP+, MRI+/CRP−, MRI−/CRP+, MRI−/CRP−) from randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A comprehensive database search was performed to include axial spondylarthritis (axSpA; both radiographic axSpA [r‐axSpA] and nonradiographic axSpA [nr‐axSpA]) RCTs with treatment efficacy reported by different MRI and CRP subgroups. Study‐specific disease activity scores (at 12‐16 weeks) were pooled using a random‐effects model and compared between the four subgroups.

Results

Five trials (all nr‐axSpA) were included: three with tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi, N = 729) and two with interleukin‐17 inhibitors (IL‐17i, N = 794). TNFi and IL‐17i showed efficacy based on the Assessment of Spondyloarthritis International Society 40 (ASAS40) and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index 50 (BASDAI50) in all MRI and CRP subgroups, except the CRP−/MRI− subgroup, which had a single study with only 39 patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the four subgroups in terms of patients achieving ASAS40 (P = 0.60, I2 = 0%) or BASDAI50 (P = 0.27, I2 = 23.9%). The number needed to treat was three for the CRP+/MRI+ and CRP+/MRI− subgroups and six for the CRP−/MRI+ and CRP−/MRI− subgroups. All trials had a low risk of bias. Between‐study heterogeneity was low to moderate. Sensitivity analyses comparing TNFi or IL‐17i versus placebo similarly showed no difference between subgroups in terms of ASAS40 (TNFi, P = 0.57; IL‐17i, P = 0.28) and BASDAI50 (TNFi, P = 0.37; IL‐17i, P = 0.18).

Conclusion

In this systematic review, there was no statistically significant difference between the four subgroups in terms of efficacy based on ASAS40 or BASDAI50.
Superhydrophobic and Anti‐Icing Surface by Femtosecond Laser Direct Writing
Authors: Zhu Zhenkai , Wu Peichao , Juodkazis Saulius , Wang Ji , Yao Songbai , Yao Jianhua , Zhang Wenwu
Published: August 2023

Glass fiber‐reinforced polymer (GFRP) is formed with glass fiber as the reinforcing material and resin as the matrix. It is widely used in wind turbine blades because of its lightweight, high strength, and corrosion resistance properties. Herein, a method to prepare superhydrophobic GFRP surfaces by femtosecond laser direct writing combined with fluoroalkylsilane modification is demonstrated. The prepared GFRP surface has excellent superhydrophobicity with contact angle of 163.9° and sliding angle of 3.8°. In the ice resistance tests, the icing delay time is extended from 33 to 273 s at −5 °C. The ice adhesion strength is reduced from 217.4 to 40.3 kPa. The surface still has superhydrophobicity and ice adhesion strength of less than 100 kPa after ten cycles of the test. The laser exposure conditions are optimized for water/ice repelling and are at high intensity of 4 TW cm−2 pulse−1 and 2.5 m s−1 beam travel speed, which make the presented approach efficient for fabrication over industrially large areas.
Carbon‐Encapsulated Magnetite Nanodoughnut as a NIR‐II Responsive Nanozyme for Synergistic Chemodynamic–Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Meng Xiangfu , Zhang Zonghui , Qian Yong , Wang Xingyu , Lin Yefeng , Shi Xinyi , Lin Wenchu , Zhang Miqin , Wang Hui
Published: August 2023

Magnetite‐based nanozymes have attracted great interest for catalytic cancer therapy enabled by catalyzing hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to produce highly toxic hydroxyl radicals (•OH) to kill tumor cells. However, their therapeutic efficacies remain low due to insufficient •OH. Here, a light‐responsive carbon‐encapsulated magnetite nanodoughnuts (CEMNDs) with dual‐catalytic activities for photothermal‐enhanced chemodynamic therapy (CDT) is reported. The CEMNDs can accumulate in tumor and get into tumor cells and effectively act as peroxidase to convert H2O2 to •OH that causes tumor cell death. The CEMNDs also possess intrinsic glutathione oxidase‐like activity that which catalyzes the oxidation of reduced glutathione and produce lipid peroxidase for enhanced catalytic therapy. Furthermore, the CEMNDs can absorb 1064 nm light to elevate local temperature and increase release of Fe ions for photothermal therapy and enhanced CDT respectively. The in vivo experiments in an aggressive and drug‐resistant metastatic mouse model of triple negative breast cancer model demonstrate excellent synergistic anti‐tumor function and no measurable systemic toxicity of CEMNDs.
High‐Density Vertical Transistors with Pitch Size Down to 20 nm
Authors: Xiao Zhaojing , Liu Liting , Chen Yang , Lu Zheyi , Yang Xiaokun , Gong Zhenqi , Li Wanying , Kong Lingan , Ding Shuimei , Li Zhiwei , Lu Donglin , Ma Likuan , Liu Songlong , Liu Xiao , Liu Yuan
Published: August 2023

Vertical field effect transistors (VFETs) have attracted considerable interest for developing ultra‐scaled devices. In particular, individual VFET can be stacked on top of another and does not consume additional chip footprint beyond what is needed for a single device at the bottom, representing another dimension for high‐density transistors. However, high‐density VFETs with small pitch size are difficult to fabricate and is largely limited by the trade‐offs between drain thickness and its conductivity. Here, a simple approach is reported to scale the drain to sub‐10 nm. By combining 7 nm thick Au with monolayer graphene, the hybrid drain demonstrates metallic behavior with low sheet resistance of ≈100 Ω sq−1. By van der Waals laminating the hybrid drain on top of 3 nm thick channel and scaling gate stack, the total VFET pitch size down to 20 nm and demonstrates a higher on‐state current of 730 A cm−2. Furthermore, three individual VFETs together are vertically stacked within a vertical distance of 59 nm, representing the record low pitch size for vertical transistors. The method pushes the scaling limit and pitch size limit of VFET, opening up a new pathway for high‐density vertical transistors and integrated circuits.
Strain Engineering for Enhancing Carrier Mobility in MoTe2 Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Shafi Abde Mayeen , Uddin Md Gius , Cui Xiaoqi , Ali Fida , Ahmed Faisal , Radwan Mohamed , Das Susobhan , Mehmood Naveed , Sun Zhipei , Lipsanen Harri
Published: August 2023

Molybdenum ditelluride (MoTe2) exhibits immense potential in post‐silicon electronics due to its bandgap comparable to silicon. Unlike other 2D materials, MoTe2 allows easy phase modulation and efficient carrier type control in electrical transport. However, its unstable nature and low‐carrier mobility limit practical implementation in devices. Here, a deterministic method is proposed to improve the performance of MoTe2 devices by inducing local tensile strain through substrate engineering and encapsulation processes. The approach involves creating hole arrays in the substrate and using atomic layer deposition grown Al2O3 as an additional back‐gate dielectric layer on SiO2. The MoTe2 channel is passivated with a thick layer of Al2O3 post‐fabrication. This structure significantly improves hole and electron mobilities in MoTe2 field‐effect transistors (FETs), approaching theoretical limits. Hole mobility up to 130 cm−2 V−1 s−1 and electron mobility up to 160 cm−2 V−1 s−1 are achieved. Introducing local tensile strain through the hole array enhances electron mobility by up to 6 times compared to the unstrained devices. Remarkably, the devices exhibit metal–insulator transition in MoTe2 FETs, with a well‐defined critical point. This study presents a novel technique to enhance carrier mobility in MoTe2 FETs, offering promising prospects for improving 2D material performance in electronic applications.
Multi‐Stability of the Extensible Origami Structures
Authors: Xi Kaili , Chai Sibo , Ma Jiayao , Chen Yan
Published: August 2023

Multi‐stable structures and metamaterials with more than two stable states are widely applied in diversified engineering applications. Non‐rigid foldable origami patterns have provided an effective way of designing multi‐stable structures. But most of them have only two stable states and therefore require a combination of many units to achieve multi‐stability. Here, a series of extensible origami structures are proposed with generic multi‐stability based on non‐rigid wrapping origami. Through a kinematic analysis and experiments, it is demonstrate that a sequential folding among different layers of the structures is created to generate a continuous rigid origami range and several discrete rigid origami states, which consequently leads to the multi‐stability of the extensible origami structures. Moreover, the effects of design parameters on the mechanical properties of the structures are investigated by numerical simulation, enabling properties programmability upon specific needs. This study thus paves a new pathway for the development of novel multi‐stable origami structures.
The smallest likely pathogenic duplication of a SOX9 enhancer identified to date in a family with 46,XX testicular differences of sex development
Authors: Sajan Samin A. , Brown Carolyn M. , Davis‐Keppen Laura , Burns Kaitlyn , Royer Erin , Coleman Jessica A. Cooley , Hilton Benjamin A. , DuPont Barbara R. , Perry Denise L. , Taft Ryan J. , Kesari Akanchha
Published: August 2023

Copy number variants that duplicate distal upstream enhancer elements of the SOX9 gene cause 46,XX testicular differences of sex development (DSD) which is characterized by a 46,XX karyotype in an individual presenting with either ambiguous genitalia or genitalia with varying degrees of virilization, including those resembling typical male genitalia. Reported duplications in this region range in size from 24 to 780 kilobases (kb). Here we report a family with two affected individuals, the proband and his maternal uncle, harboring a 3.7 kb duplication of a SOX9 enhancer identified by clinical genome sequencing. Prior fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) for SRY and a multi‐gene panel for ambiguous genitalia were non‐diagnostic. The unaffected mother also carries this duplication, consistent with previously described incomplete penetrance. To our knowledge, this is the smallest duplication identified to‐date, most of which resides in a 5.2 kb region that has been previously shown to possess enhancer activity that promotes the expression of SOX9. The duplication was confirmed by quantitative‐PCR and shown to be in tandem by bidirectional Sanger sequencing breakpoint analysis. This finding highlights the importance of non‐coding variant interrogation in suspected genetic disorders.
NDIS partnership working? Paradoxes, contested spaces and aspirations of disability leaders, family carers and disability services
Authors: David Christina , Johnson Belinda , Ramcharan Paul
Published: August 2023

In 2022, a new Federal Labor government introduced an NDIA Act amendment and initiatives that indicate a reorientation to partnership working and integration of co‐design principles. “Partnership working” reflects collaborative aspirations where parties commit to trust, shared goals and respect for diverse knowledges and experiences. The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) espouses a partnership approach and rights‐based values, yet the neoliberal emphasis on individual choice and marketisation within a social insurance model can privilege certain voices and produce adversarial processes and dynamics. Our focus group research with disability leaders, family carers and disability service professionals explored experiences in the NDIS planning phase with a focus on the extent to which partnership principles operated in practice. Our findings suggest embedded paradoxes; time and resources are required to build the trust and relationships central to interpersonal partnerships between individuals, carers and services but are undermined by organisational and structural factors such as workload pressures, administrative burden and adversarial practices produced in a cost containment context. Tensions in partnership working must also negotiate carers' workload and responsibilities with the autonomy of people with disability. We argue that partnership working is difficult to achieve where structural and systemic limitations and assumptions influence everyday practices. Partnership must operate from empowerment and relational, rather than transactional, principles if genuine participatory and inclusive practice is to be achieved.
Case series: The use of spermatic cord block in maximising patient comfort during ultrasound‐guided percutaneous core‐needle biopsy of the testicle
Authors: Dunlay Michael , Gu Chris , Adamo Daniel , Welch Brian , Packard Annie , Atwell Thomas
Published: August 2023

Introduction/Purpose

Percutaneous core‐needle biopsy of the testicle has been shown to be a safe and effective method of obtaining tissue for histological analysis and can be considered in specific clinical scenarios. While the use of spermatic cord block has been shown to be effective in pain relief in the emergent setting and as an anaesthetic option for inguinal surgery, its use in percutaneous core‐needle biopsy has not been well described. Through this case series, we present our experience and technique of ultrasound‐guided percutaneous core‐needle biopsy using spermatic cord block in the setting of indeterminant testicular masses.

Methods

Our departmental biopsy database was reviewed to identify patients who underwent percutaneous core‐needle biopsy of the testicle from March 2010 to July 2022 and who also received spermatic cord block during the procedure.

Results

Three patients were identified who met the search criteria. All three patients presented for the evaluation of indeterminant testicular mass and had a known non‐testicular primary cancer diagnosis at the time of biopsy. All three biopsies were performed using a combination of spermatic cord block, moderate sedation, and local anaesthetic. Biopsies were obtained using an 18‐gauge spring‐loaded device with 4‐5 core samples obtained during each procedure. All biopsies were well tolerated without significant pain or post‐procedure complications.

Discussion

Ultrasound‐guided percutaneous core‐needle testicular biopsy using spermatic cord block is a safe and effective option in sampling indeterminate testicular masses while maintaining patient comfort.

Conclusion

The inclusion of a spermatic cord block in combination with local anaesthetic and moderate sedation has become standard practice in our institution, as we believe this maximises patient comfort and safety resulting in a better patient experience.
Associations of inner retinal layers with risk of incident dementia: An individual participant data analysis of four prospective cohort studies
Authors: van der Heide Frank C. T. , Khawaja Anthony , Berendschot Tos T. J. M. , Littlejohns Thomas J. , Kuźma Elżbieta , Luben Robert , Patel Praveen J. , Foster Paul J. ,   The Maastricht Study Consortium, Bertelsen Geir , von Hanno Therese , Johnsen Bente , Schirmer Henrik , Rebouças Sara C. L. , Grasset Leslie , Delcourt Cécile , Helmer Catherine ,   UK Biobank Eye & Vision Consortium,   E3 consortium, Stehouwer Coen D. A.
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Our main objective was to investigate whether retinal neurodegeneration, estimated from lower thickness of inner retinal layers, was associated with incident all‐cause dementia and Alzheimer's disease (AD).

METHODS

We performed an individual participant data meta‐analysis using unpublished data from four prospective cohort studies with a total of 69,955 participants (n = 1087 cases of incident all‐cause dementia; n = 520 cases incident AD; follow‐up time median [interquartile range] 11.3 [8.8–11.5] years).

RESULTS

General baseline characteristics of the study population were mean (standard deviation) age, 58.1 (8.8) years; 47% women. After adjustment, lower baseline macular retinal nerve fiber layer thickness was significantly associated with a 10% and 11% higher incidence of all‐cause dementia and AD, respectively. Lower baseline macular ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer thickness was not significantly associated with these outcomes.

DISCUSSION

These findings suggest that retinal neurodegeneration precedes the onset of clinical dementia. Retinal imaging tools may be informative biomarkers for the study of the early pathophysiology of dementia.
Nanostructure Explains the Behavior of Slippery Covalently Attached Liquid Surfaces
Authors: Gresham Isaac J. , Lilley Seamus G. , Nelson Andrew R. J. , Koynov Kaloian , Neto Chiara
Published: August 2023

Slippery covalently‐attached liquid surfaces (SCALS) with low contact angle hysteresis (CAH, <5°) and nanoscale thickness display impressive anti‐adhesive properties, similar to lubricant‐infused surfaces. Their efficacy is generally attributed to the liquid‐like mobility of the constituent tethered chains. However, the precise physico‐chemical properties that facilitate this mobility are unknown, hindering rational design.

This work quantifies the chain length, grafting density, and microviscosity of a range of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) SCALS, elucidating the nanostructure responsible for their properties. Three prominent methods are used to produce SCALS, with characterization carried out via single‐molecule force measurements, neutron reflectometry, and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy. CO2 snow‐jet cleaning was also shown to reduce the CAH of SCALS via a modification of their grafting density. SCALS behavior can be predicted by reduced grafting density, Σ, with the lowest water CAH achieved at Σ≈2. This study provides the first direct examination of SCALS grafting density, chain length, and microviscosity and supports the hypothesis that SCALS properties stem from a balance of layer uniformity and mobility.
Hybrid Sub‐1 nm Nanosheets of Co‐assembled MnZnCuOx and Polyoxometalate Clusters as Anodes for Li‐ion Batteries
Authors: Yuan Guobao , Ge Huaiyun , Shi Wenxiong , Liu Junli , Zhang Yu , Wang Xun
Published: August 2023

Transition metal oxide (TMO) anode materials in lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) usually suffer from serious volume expansion leading to the pulverization of structures, further giving rise to lower specific capacity and worse cycling stability. Herein, by introducing polyoxometalate (POM) clusters into TMOs and precisely controlling the amount of POMs, the MnZnCuOx‐phosphomolybdic acid hybrid sub‐1 nm nanosheets (MZC‐PMA HSNSs) anode is successfully fabricated, where the special electron rich structure of POMs is conducive to accelerating the migration of lithium ions on the anode to obtain higher specific capacity, and the non‐covalent interactions between POMs and TMOs make the HSNSs possess excellent structural and chemical stability, thus exhibiting outstanding electrochemical performance in LIBs, achieving a high reversible capacity (1157 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1) and an admirable long‐term cycling stability at low and high current densities.
Die Stärke von Action Plots: Untersuchung der Reaktionsselektivität lichtstabilisierter dynamischer kovalenter Chemie
Authors: Gauci Steven C. , Du Prez Filip E. , Holloway Joshua O. , Houck Hannes A. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: August 2023

Die Entwicklung von sog. „Action Plots“ ermöglicht effizientere photochemische Prozesse durch Verwendung der optimalen Wellenlänge und damit der maximalen Reaktivität der Substrate. Wir präsentieren hier die Vorteile solcher Action Plots anhand der wellenlängenaufgelösten Photochemie zweier Triazolindion (TAD)‐Substrate, d. h. aliphatisch und aromatisch substituierter Substrate, die nahezu identische Absorptionsspektren, jedoch eine sehr unterschiedliche Photoreaktivität, aufweisen. Wir stellen unsere Ergebnisse in Action Plots dar, in welchen sich die Reaktionsselektivität zeigt. Der fundamentale Unterschied in der Photoreaktivität wird für die Entwicklung eines hybriden bisfunktionalen TAD‐Moleküls ausgenutzt, das die Bildung eines zweifach gesteuerten Reaktionpfades ermöglicht, welcher das außergewöhnliche regioselektive (photo)chemische Verhalten beider TAD‐Substrate innerhalb eines einzigen kleinen Moleküls vereint.
Facile, Versatile and Stepwise Synthesis of High‐Performance Oligomer Acceptors for Stable Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Chen , Song Jiali , Xue Jingwei , Wang Shijie , Ge Zhongwei , Man Yuheng , Ma Wei , Sun Yanming
Published: August 2023

Oligomer acceptors have recently emerged as promising photovoltaic materials for achieving high power conversion efficiency (PCE) and long‐term stability in organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the limited availability of diverse acceptors, resulting from the sole synthetic approach, has hindered their potential for future industrialization. In this study, we present a facile and effective stepwise approach that utilizes two consecutive Stille coupling reactions for the synthesis of oligomer acceptors. To demonstrate the feasibility of the novel approach, we successfully synthesize a trimer acceptor, Tri‐Y6‐OD, and further systematically investigate the impact of oligomerization on device performance and stability. The results reveal that this approach has significant advantages compared to the conventional method, including reduced formation of unwanted by‐products and lower difficulties in purification. Remarkably, the OSC based on PM6 : Tri‐Y6‐OD achieves an impressive PCE of 18.03 % and maintains 80 % of the initial PCE (T80) for 1523 h under illumination, surpassing the performance of the corresponding small molecule acceptor Y6‐OD‐based device. Furthermore, the versatility of the synthetic strategy in obtaining diverse acceptors is further demonstrated. Overall, our findings provide a facile, versatile and stepwise way for synthesizing oligomer acceptors, thereby facilitating the development of stable and efficient OSCs.
Anion‐Regulated Hierarchical Self‐Assembly and Chiral Induction of Metallo‐Tetrahedra
Authors: Bai Qixia , Guan Yu‐Ming , Wu Tun , Liu Ying , Zhai Zirui , Long Qingwu , Jiang Zhiyuan , Su Peiyang , Xie Ting‐Zheng , Wang Pingshan , Zhang Zhe
Published: August 2023

The precise control over hierarchical self‐assembly of superstructures relying on the elaboration of multiple noncovalent interactions between basic building blocks is both elusive and highly desirable. We herein report a terpyridine‐based metallo‐cage T with a tetrahedral motif and utilized it as an efficient building block for the controlled hierarchical self‐assembly of superstructures in response to different halide ions. Initially, the hierarchical superstructure of metallo‐cage T adopted a hexagonal close‐packed structure. By adding Cl−/Br− or I−, drastically different hierarchical superstructures with highly‐tight hexagonal packing or graphite‐like packing arrangements, respectively, have been achieved. These unusual halide‐ion‐triggered hierarchical structural changes resulted in quite distinct intermolecular channels, which provided new insights into the mechanism of three‐dimensional supramolecular aggregation and crystal growth based on macromolecular construction. In addition, the chiral induction of the metallo‐cage T can be realized with the addition of chiral anions, which stereoselectively generated either PPPP‐ or MMMM‐type enantiomers.
Recent Advances in Ligand Engineering for Gold Nanocluster Catalysis: Ligand Library, Ligand Effects and Strategies
Authors: Wang Mengyue , Chen Yu , Tang Cen
Published: August 2023

Advances in new ligands in the last decade facilitated in‐depth studies on the property‐relationship of gold nanoclusters and promoted the rational synthesis and related applications of such materials. Currently, more and more new ligands are being explored; thus, the ligand library of AuNCs is being expanded fast, which also enables investigation of ligand effects of AuNCs via direct comparison of different ligating shell with the identical gold core. It is now widely accepted that ligands influence the properties of AuNCs enormously including stability, catalysis, photoluminescence among others. These studies inspired ligand engineering of AuNCs. One of the goals for ligand engineering is to develop ligated AuNC catalysts in which the ligands are able to exert big‐enough influence on electronic and steric control over catalysis as in a transition‐metal or an enzyme system. Although increasing attention is paid to the further expansion of ligand library, the investigation of design principles and strategies regarding ligands are still in their infant stage. This review summarizes the ligands for AuNC synthesis, the ligand effects on stability and catalysis, and recently developed strategies in promoting AuNC catalytic performance via ligand manipulation.
Alkynyl‐Protected Bimetallic Nanoclusters with a Hybrid Mackay Icosahedral Ag42Cu12Cl Kernel and an Octahedral Ag22Cu12 Kernel
Authors: Hu Feng , Guan Zong‐Jie , Yuan Shang‐Fu , Wang Quan‐Ming
Published: August 2023

A facile strategy that directly reduces alkynyl‐silver precursors and copper salts for the synthesis of bimetallic nanoclusters using the weak reducing agent Ph2SiH2 is demonstrated. Two alkynyl‐protected concentric‐shell nanoclusters, (Ph4P)2[Ag22Cu12(C≡CR)28] and (Ph4P)3[Ag42Cu12Cl(C≡CR)36] (Ag22Cu12 and Ag42Cu12Cl, R=bis(trifluoromethyl)phenyl), were successfully obtained and characterized by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and electro‐spray ionization mass spectrometry. For the first time, a hybrid 55‐atom two‐shell Mackay icosahedron was found in Ag42Cu12Cl, which is icosahedral M54Cl instead of M55. The incorporation of a chloride in the metal icosahedron contributes to the stability of the cluster from both electronic and geometric aspects. Alkynyl ligands show various binding‐modes including linear “RC≡C−Cu−C≡CR” staple motifs.
An extraction‐free method for rapid detection of CYP2C19 * 2/3/17 polymorphisms in one tube using melting curve analysis
Authors: Guo Jianguang , You Weixin , Lin Kangfeng , Li Qinghan , Guo Xiangju , Wang Shuai , Bian Ya , Ren Wenjing , Zhang Rui , Wang Yanping , Li Boan
Published: August 2023

Drug‐metabolizing enzymes play an important role in the metabolism of drugs in vivo. Their activity is an important factor affecting the rate of drug metabolism, which directly determines the intensity and persistence of drug action. Patients taking medication can be divided into different metabolic types through detection of CYP2C19 drug‐metabolizing enzyme gene polymorphisms, which can then be used for medication guidance for clopidogrel. Here, we describe a detection method based on real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This method uses multicolor melting curve analysis to accurately identify different mutation sites and genotypes of CYP2C19 * 2, CYP2C19 * 3, and CYP2C19 * 17.

The detection limit of plasmid samples was 1 copies μL−1; that of genomic samples was 0.1 ng μL−1. The system can detect nine types of CYP2C19 * 2/3/17 at three sites in one tube, quickly achieving detection within 1 h. Combined with the sample release agent, sample extraction was completed in 5 s, achieving rapid diagnosis without extraction for timely diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, the system is not limited to blood samples and can also be applied to oropharyngeal and saliva samples, increasing sampling diversity and convenience. When using clinical blood samples (n = 93), the detection system we established was able to quickly and accurately identify different genotypes, and the accuracy and effectiveness of the detection were confirmed by Sanger sequencing.

Due to its accuracy, rapidity, simple operation, and low cost, detection technology based on real‐time polymerase amplification combined with melting curve analysis is expected to become a powerful tool for detecting and guiding clopidogrel use in countries with limited resources.
The emerging role of heart‐on‐a‐chip systems in delineating mechanisms of SARS‐CoV‐2‐induced cardiac dysfunction
Authors: Lu Rick Xing Ze , Zhao Yimu , Radisic Milica
Published: August 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has been a major global health concern since its emergence in 2019, with over 680 million confirmed cases as of April 2023. While COVID‐19 has been strongly associated with the development of cardiovascular complications, the specific mechanisms by which viral infection induces myocardial dysfunction remain largely controversial as studies have shown that the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 can lead to heart failure both directly, by causing damage to the heart cells, and indirectly, by triggering an inflammatory response throughout the body. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of potential mechanisms that drive heart failure based on in vitro studies. We also discuss the significance of three‐dimensional heart‐on‐a‐chip technology in the context of the current and future pandemics.
Development and Up‐scaling of Iron‐based Catalysts for Fischer‐Tropsch Synthesis of Higher Alcohols
Authors: Medicus Maximilian , Mettke Judith , Merkel Michael , Hilbig Sebastian , Abel Johannes , Seewald Felix , Klauss Hans‐Henning , Reichelt Erik
Published: August 2023

For sustainable production of chemicals like hydrocarbons and oxygenates from renewable carbon sources and electricity Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis is focused in current research. Aiming for this purpose, the development of supported powdered and shaped catalysts for low‐temperature Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis of value‐added higher alcohols was addressed in this study. Promising support materials like α‐Al2O3, SiO2, ZrO2 and SiC were assessed and the influence of electrochemical promoters on product formation was investigated. The results show an outstanding promoting effect of lithium on conversion and alcohol selectivity. A beneficial synergistic effect occurred for the combination of 1 % Li and Cu each and could be exploited both for supported powdered and shaped catalysts. Furthermore, effects of surface, shape, porosity and Fe content on pellet catalysts were investigated. Exploiting the beneficial effects found, the first monometallic shaped Fe‐based catalyst – outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art monometallic Fe powder catalysts in conversion and selectivity – is presented.
Density Functional Theory Computations and Experimental Analyses to Highlight the Degradation of Reactive Black 5 Dye
Authors: Yildiz Sayiter , Canbaz Gamze Topal , Kaya Savaş , Maslov Mikhail M.
Published: August 2023

The oxidative degradation of Reactive Black 5 (RB5) in aqueous solution was investigated using Fenton (FP), photo Fenton (P‐FP), sono Fenton (S‐FP), and sono photo Fenton (S‐P‐FP) processes. Degradation experiments showed efficient dye degradation for FP, P‐FP, S‐FP, and S‐P‐FP under optimal conditions. The half‐life values of the reaction calculated for first‐order reaction kinetics showed that the S‐FP process is faster than the FP and P‐FP processes. Using DFT calculations, the chemical reactivities of the studied chemical systems were analyzed. Especially the calculated chemical hardness values reflect the reactivities of the dye and the dye‐Fe2+ complex. The calculated binding energy between the Fe2+ ion and RB5 of 15.836 eV is compatible with the prediction made in the light of the principle of hard and soft acids and bases. The computed data supported the experimental observations.
Improvement in Rate Capabilities of Hybrid Cathodes with Through‐Holed Layers of Cathode Material and Activated Carbon on Each Side of a Current Collector in Lithium‐Ion Batteries.
Authors: Yamada Mitsuru , Fukunishi Mika , Ando Nobuo , Nakamura Susumu , Soma Naohiko , Matsumoto Futoshi
Published: August 2023

This study was conducted to improve the rate capability and cyclability of cathodes for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) with a hybrid cathode structure. The through‐holed LIB cathode material and activated carbon layers formed on each side of a current collector were drilled with a picosecond pulsed laser beam to prepare the cathode structure. The hybrid cathodes exhibited excellent rate capabilities of 93 % capacity retention at 100 C. The results were dependent on the weight percentage of the activated carbon relative to the total weight of the active materials and on the difference in discharge/charge voltages between the LIB cathode and activated carbon materials. The cathode had cycle stability at 50 C during 100 cycles. The performance characteristics of the hybrid cathode, the through‐holed and nontreated LIB cathodes, and the nontreated activated carbon cathodes were compared. In the Ragone plot, the hybrid cathode was located in the region where conventional through‐holed and nontreated cathodes would not be located.
Targeted regeneration and upcycling of spent graphite by defect‐driven tin nucleation
Authors: Cheng Zhiheng , Luo Zhiling , Zhang Hao , Zhang Wuxing , Gao Wang , Zhang Yang , Qie Long , Yao Yonggang , Huang Yunhui , Fu Kun Kelvin
Published: August 2023

The recycling of spent batteries has become increasingly important owing to their wide applications, abundant raw material supply, and sustainable development. Compared with the degraded cathode, spent anode graphite often has a relatively intact structure with few defects after long cycling. Yet, most spent graphite is simply burned or discarded due to its limited value and inferior performance on using conventional recycling methods that are complex, have low efficiency, and fail in performance restoration. Herein, we propose a fast, efficient, and “intelligent” strategy to regenerate and upcycle spent graphite based on defect‐driven targeted remediation. Using Sn as a nanoscale healant, we used rapid heating (~50 ms) to enable dynamic Sn droplets to automatically nucleate around the surface defects on the graphite upon cooling owing to strong binding to the defects (~5.84 eV/atom), thus simultaneously achieving Sn dispersion and graphite remediation. As a result, the regenerated graphite showed enhanced capacity and cycle stability (458.9 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 100 cycles), superior to those of commercial graphite. Benefiting from the self‐adaption of Sn dispersion, spent graphite with different degrees of defects can be regenerated to similar structures and performance. EverBatt analysis indicates that targeted regeneration and upcycling have significantly lower energy consumption (~99% reduction) and near‐zero CO2 emission, and yield much higher profit than hydrometallurgy, which opens a new avenue for direct upcycling of spend graphite in an efficient, green, and profitable manner for sustainable battery manufacture.
Tackling the proton limit under industrial electrochemical CO2 reduction by a local proton shuttle
Authors: Shao Tianye , Yang Kang , Chen Sheng , Zheng Min , Zhang Ying , Li Qiang , Duan Jingjing
Published: August 2023

Industrial CO2 electroreduction has received tremendous attentions for resolution of the current energy and environmental crisis, but its performance is greatly limited by mass transport at high current density. In this work, an ion‐polymer‐modified gas‐diffusion electrode is used to tackle this proton limit. It is found that gas diffusion electrode‐Nafion shows an impressive performance of 75.2% Faradaic efficiency in multicarbon products at an industrial current density of 1.16 A/cm2. Significantly, in‐depth electrochemical characterizations combined with in situ Raman have been used to determine the full workflow of protons, and it is found that HCO3− acts as a proton pool near the reaction environment, and HCO3− and H3O+ are local proton donors that interact with the proton shuttle −SO3− from Nafion. With rich proton hopping sites that decrease the activation energy, a “Grotthuss” mechanism for proton transport in the above system has been identified rather than the “Vehicle” mechanism with a higher energy barrier. Therefore, this work could be very useful in terms of the achievement of industrial CO2 reduction fundamentally and practically.
Synthesis of 4‐Deoxy‐4‐Fluoro‐d‐Sedoheptulose: A Promising New Sugar to Apply the Principle of Metabolic Trapping
Authors: Scheibelberger Lukas , Stankovic Toda , Pühringer Marlene , Kählig Hanspeter , Balber Theresa , Patronas Eva‐Maria , Rampler Evelyn , Mitterhauser Markus , Haschemi Arvand , Pallitsch Katharina
Published: August 2023

Fluorinated carbohydrates are important tools for understanding the deregulation of metabolic fluxes and pathways. Fluorinating specific positions within the sugar scaffold can lead to enhanced metabolic stability and subsequent metabolic trapping in cells. This principle has, however, never been applied to study the metabolism of the rare sugars of the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). In this study, two fluorinated derivatives of d‐sedoheptulose were designed and synthesized: 4‐deoxy‐4‐fluoro‐d‐sedoheptulose (4DFS) and 3‐deoxy‐3‐fluoro‐d‐sedoheptulose (3DFS). Both sugars are taken up by human fibroblasts but only 4DFS is phosphorylated. Fluorination of d‐sedoheptulose at C‐4 effectively halts the enzymatic degradation by transaldolase and transketolase. 4DFS thus has a high potential as a new PPP imaging probe based on the principle of metabolic trapping. Therefore, the synthesis of potential radiolabeling precursors for 4DFS for future radiofluorinations with fluorine‐18 is presented.
Single and two‐cells shape analysis from energy functionals for three‐dimensional vertex models
Authors: Khan Ahmad K. , Muñoz‐Castro Guillem , Muñoz Jose J.
Published: August 2023

Vertex models have been extensively used for simulating the evolution of multicellular systems, and have given rise to important global properties concerning their macroscopic rheology or jamming transitions. These models are based on the definition of an energy functional, which fully determines the cellular response and conclusions. While two‐dimensional vertex models have been widely employed, three‐dimensional models are far more scarce, mainly due to the large amount of configurations that they may adopt and the complex geometrical transitions they undergo. We here investigate the shape of single and two‐cells configurations as a function of the energy terms, and we study the dependence of the final shape on the model parameters: namely the exponent of the term penalising cell‐cell adhesion and surface contractility. In single cell analysis, we deduce analytically the radius and limit values of the contractility for linear and quadratic surface energy terms, in 2D and 3D. In two‐cells systems, symmetrical and asymmetrical, we deduce the evolution of the aspect ratio and the relative radius. While in functionals with linear surface terms yield the same aspect ratio in 2D and 3D, the configurations when using quadratic surface terms are distinct. We relate our results with well‐known solutions from capillarity theory, and verify our analytical findings with a three‐dimensional vertex model.
Photoinduced One‐Electron Oxidation of Estrone Derivatives: A Combined Steady‐State and Time‐Resolved Spectroscopy Investigation
Authors: Quindt Matías I. , Protti Stefano , Merli Daniele , Bonesi Sergio M.
Published: August 2023

A detailed investigation of the photophysics and of the redox properties of a set of selected estrone carboxylate and sulfonate esters was carried out by means of steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopies. The observed dual fluorescence was assigned to an efficient intramolecular energy transfer from the aromatic moiety to the carbonyl group. On the other hand, the photoinduced monoelectronic oxidation of R−OX in the presence of persulphate anion is followed by mesolytic fragmentation of the so generated radical cation into the corresponding phenoxyl radical with rate constant values (kfrag) of 104–105 s−1, that depend on the X−O bond dissociation energy values.
A Nature‐Inspired Antioxidant Strategy based on Porphyrin for Aromatic Hydrocarbon Containing Fuel Cell Membranes**
Authors: de Wild Tym , Wurm Jan , Becker Pascal , Günther Detlef , Nauser Thomas , Schmidt Thomas J. , Gubler Lorenz , Nemeth Tamas
Published: August 2023

The use of hydrocarbon‐based proton conducting membranes in fuel cells is currently hampered by the insufficient durability of the material in the device. Membrane aging is triggered by the presence of reactive intermediates, such as HO⋅, which attack the polymer and eventually lead to chain breakdown and membrane failure. An adequate antioxidant strategy tailored towards hydrocarbon‐based ionomers is therefore imperative to improve membrane lifetime. In this work, we perform studies on reaction kinetics using pulse radiolysis and γ‐radiolysis as well as fuel cell experiments to demonstrate the feasibility of increasing the stability of hydrocarbon‐based membranes against oxidative attack by implementing a Nature‐inspired antioxidant strategy. We found that metalated‐porphyrins are suitable for damage transfer and can be used in the fuel cell membrane to reduce membrane aging with a low impact on fuel cell performance.
Improved Reversible Capacity and Cycling Stability by Linear (N=O) Anions in Fe[Fe(CN)5NO] as Sodium‐Ion Battery Cathode
Authors: Han Qinghao , Hu Ya'nan , Gao Shuting , Yang Zonghua , Liu Xingjun , Wang Cuiping , Han Jiajia
Published: August 2023

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) are promising cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their tunable chemistry, open channel structure, and low cost. However, excessive crystal water and volume expansion can negatively impact the lifetime of actual SIBs. In this study, a novel iron nitroprusside: Fe[Fe(CN)5NO] (PBN) was synthesized to effectively eliminate the detrimental effects of crystal water on the reversible capacity and cycling stability of PBA materials. Experiments and DFT calculations demonstrated that PBN has lower crystal water and volume expansion compared to Fe[Fe(CN)6] (PB). Also, the N=O bond in PBN significantly reduces the diffusion potential of Na+ in the skeleton. Without any modification, the cathode material exhibited a capacity of up to 148.6 mAh g−1 at 50 mA g−1 as well as maintained 102.9 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. This work expands our knowledge of the crystal structure of PBA cathode materials and facilitates the rational design of high‐quality PBA cathodes for SIBs.
Targeting MAGI2‐AS3‐modulated Akt‐dependent ATP‐binding cassette transporters as a possible strategy to reverse temozolomide resistance in temozolomide‐resistant glioblastoma cells
Authors: Chen Zhongjun , Zhou Jingmin , Liu Yu , Ni Hongzao , Zhou Botao
Published: August 2023

Drug resistance is a major impediment to the successful treatment of glioma. This study aimed to elucidate the effects and mechanisms of the long noncoding RNA membrane‐associated guanylate kinase inverted‐2 antisense RNA 3 (MAGI2‐AS3) on temozolomide (TMZ) resistance in glioma cells. MAGI2‐AS3 expression in TMZ‐resistant glioblastoma (GBM) cells was analyzed using the Gene Expression Omnibus data set GSE113510 and quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR). Cell viability and TMZ half‐maximal inhibitory concentration values were determined using the MTT assay. Apoptosis and cell cycle distribution were evaluated using flow cytometry. The expression of multidrug resistance 1 (MDR1), ATP‐binding cassette superfamily G member 2 (ABCG2), protein kinase B (Akt), and phosphorylated Akt was detected using qRT‐PCR and/or western blot analysis. MAGI2‐AS3 was expressed at low levels in TMZ‐resistant GBM cells relative to that in their parental cells. MAGI2‐AS3 re‐expression alleviated TMZ resistance in TMZ‐resistant GBM cells. MAGI2‐AS3 overexpression also accelerated TMZ‐induced apoptosis and G2/M phase arrest. Mechanistically, MAGI2‐AS3 overexpression reduced MDR1 and ABCG2 expression and inhibited the Akt pathway, whereas Akt overexpression abrogated the reduction in MDR1 and ABCG2 expression induced by MAGI2‐AS3. Moreover, activation of the Akt pathway inhibited the effects of MAGI2‐AS3 on TMZ resistance. MAGI2‐AS3 inhibited tumor growth and enhanced the suppressive effect of TMZ on glioma tumorigenesis in vivo. In conclusion, MAGI2‐AS3 reverses TMZ resistance in glioma cells by inactivating the Akt pathway.
Photoperiod effects in a freshwater community: Amphibian larvae develop faster and zooplankton abundance increases under an early‐season photoperiod
Authors: Neptune Troy C. , Benard Michael F.
Published: August 2023

Organisms that shift their phenologies in response to global warming will experience novel photic environments, as photoperiod (daylength) continues to follow the same annual cycle. How different organisms respond to novel photoperiods could result in phenological mismatches and altered interspecific interactions. We conducted an outdoor mesocosm experiment exposing green frog (Rana clamitans) larvae, gray treefrog (Hyla versicolor) larvae, phytoplankton, periphyton, and zooplankton to a three‐month shift in photoperiod: an early‐season photoperiod (simulating April) and a late‐season photoperiod (simulating July). We manipulated photoperiod by covering and uncovering tanks with clear or light‐blocking lids to mimic realistic changes in daylength. We assessed amphibian life history traits and measured phytoplankton, periphyton, and zooplankton abundances. Green frog larvae and gray treefrog metamorphs were more developed under the early‐season photoperiod. Gray treefrog total length was also reduced, but photoperiod did not affect green frog total length. Although phytoplankton and periphyton abundances were not affected by photoperiod, copepod nauplii were in greater abundance under the early‐season photoperiod. Overall, this simplified aquatic community did not exhibit significant changes to structure when exposed to a three‐month shift in photoperiod. Temperate amphibians that breed earlier in the year may develop faster, which may have long‐term costs to post‐metamorphic growth and performance. Asynchronous shifts in zooplankton abundances in response to altered photoperiods could subsequently affect freshwater community structure. While photoperiod has been shown to individually affect freshwater organisms, our study using replicated outdoor wetland communities shows that the comprehensive effects of photoperiod may be less important than other cues such as temperature and precipitation.