bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing Clinical Limitations of Glutaminase Inhibitors: Novel Strategies for Osimertinib‐Resistant Lung Cancer by Exploiting Glutamine Metabolic Dependency
Authors: Huang Jiali , Zhang Xiankang , Zhang Hui , Li Yu , Huang Huidan , Li Zhiyu , Qiu Zhixia , Wu Hongxi , Huang Dechun , Xu Xi , Bian Jinlei
Published: December 2024

Overcoming acquired resistance to Osimertinib remains a critical challenge in treating NSCLC. This research indicates that Osimertinib‐resistant cells exhibit a strong dependence on glutamine metabolism. However, targeting GLS1 shows limited anticancer effects, probably because it cannot fully block the glutamine metabolic pathway. The investigation reveals that a more effective strategy involves simultaneously inhibiting both ASCT2 and GLS1. After confirming the efficacy of this dual‐targeting approach against Osimertinib‐resistant cells in preclinical models, the potential of utilizing a broad‐spectrum glutamine metabolism antagonist is further explored to achieve superior antitumor efficacy. DON, broad‐spectrum glutamine antagonist, presents toxicity issues. Herein, the high NQO1 expression in Osimertinib‐resistant NSCLC cells is leveraged to design an NQO1‐responsive DON prodrug, 10e (LBJ‐10e). This prodrug demonstrates superior safety compared to natural DON and greater antitumor activity against resistant tumors compared to the clinical phase II drug DRP104. These findings may address the clinical limitations of GLS1 allosteric inhibitors and underscore prodrug strategies in effectively treating Osimertinib‐resistant lung cancer, providing a foundation for future clinical trials.
Ca2+‐ and cGAMP‐Contained Semiconducting Polymer Nanomessengers for Radiodynamic‐Activated Calcium Overload and Immunotherapy
Authors: Cheng Danling , Luo Libai , Zhang Qin , Song Zheming , Zhan Yiduo , Tu Wenzhi , Li Jingchao , Ma Qiming , Zeng Xianchang
Published: December 2024

Various second messengers exert some vital actions in biological systems, including cancer therapy, but the therapeutic efficacy is often need to be improved. A semiconducting polymer nanomessenger (TCa/SPN/a) consisting of two second messengers, calcium ion (Ca2+) and cyclic guanosine monophosphate‐adenosine monophosphate (cGAMP) for metastatic breast cancer therapy, is reported here. Such a TCa/SPN/a is constructed to exhibit X‐ray response for the activatable delivery of mitochondria‐targeting Ca compound and cGAMP as stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist. With X‐ray irradiation, TCa/SPN/a could generate singlet oxygen (1O2) via radiodynamic effect for ablating solid tumors and improving the tumor immunogenicity by inducing immunogenic cell death (ICD). Furthermore, the released mitochondria‐targeting Ca compounds show a high binging effect on mitochondria and cause reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and mitochondria damage via calcium overload, while cGAMP boosts immunological effect through activating STING pathway. In this way, TCa/SPN/a enables a radiodynamic‐activated calcium overload and immunotherapy to obviously inhibit the growths of bilateral tumors and also abolish tumor metastasis in metastatic breast cancer mouse models. This article should demonstrate the first smart dual‐functional nanotherapeutic containing two second messengers for precise and specific cancer therapy.
Susceptibility of Mitophagy‐Deficient Tumors to Ferroptosis Induction by Relieving the Suppression of Lipid Peroxidation
Authors: Liu Shan , Chen Jing‐Hong , Li Li‐Chao , Ye Zhi‐Peng , Liu Jian‐Nan , Chen Yu‐Hong , Hu Bing‐Xin , Tang Jia‐Hong , Feng Gong‐Kan , Li Zhi‐Ming , Deng Chu‐Xia , Deng Rong , Zhu Xiao‐Feng , Zhang Hai‐Liang
Published: December 2024

The identification of ferroptosis‐sensitive cancers is critical for the application of ferroptosis‐inducing therapies in cancer therapy. Here, patient‐derived organoid screening models of colorectal cancer are established to identify tumors that are sensitive to ferroptosis‐inducing therapy. This study discovers that patient‐derived tumors characterized by mitophagy deficiency are hypersensitive to ferroptosis‐inducing therapies. Mechanistically, a novel negative feedback regulatory pathway of lipid peroxidation is identified, which is one of the important intrinsic anti‐ferroptosis mechanisms of cancer cells. Lipid peroxidation‐mediated endoplasmic reticulum stress transcriptionally upregulates Parkin to promote mitophagy through ATF4. Mitophagy limits the generation of lipid peroxidation products and subsequently inhibits ferroptosis by inhibiting the accumulation of mitochondrial ROS. Mitophagy‐deficient tumors lack this anti‐ferroptotic mechanism, unleashing the generation of lipid peroxidation and potent ferroptotic cell death induced by erastin, RSL3, cysteine deprivation, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy. More importantly, ferroptosis‐inducing therapy selectively inhibits the growth and distant metastasis of mitophagy‐deficient tumors in vivo. In summary, patient‐derived organoids of colorectal cancer patients for screening ferroptosis‐sensitive tumors are established, providing a paradigm for identifying that patient‐derived tumors are sensitive to ferroptosis‐inducing therapies. This study concludes that mitophagy‐deficient tumors are vulnerable to ferroptosis induction, which may lead to the development of new therapeutic strategies for tumors deficient in mitophagy.
Organohydrogel Based Electronic Skin Reinforced by Dual‐Mode Conduction and Hierarchical Collagen Fibers Skeleton
Authors: Guo Ruyue , Bao Yan , Zheng Xi , Chen Jie , Zhang Wenbo , Liu Chao , Ma Jianzhong
Published: December 2024

Collagen fiber skeleton from animal skin is an ideal substrate for electronic skin (e‐skin). However, the interface mismatch between conductive materials and skeleton and the monotonicity of conductive network still hinder its creation. Herein, a novel collagen fiber‐based e‐skin with dual‐mode conduction of NaCl and conductive spheres (IECS) is accomplished by loading organohydrogel into the skeleton via “permeation and self‐assembly”. The resulting interpenetrating network produces a 3D continuous, conductive pathway and strong interface interaction with high‐density hydrogen bonding, thus exhibiting excellent strength (24.5 MPa), conductivity (14.82 S m−1), sensing performance (sensitivity of 16.64), and environmental stability. The physical structure (3D skeleton, interpenetrating network) and chemical interaction (interface interaction, salting‐out) achieve energy dissipation. Meanwhile, the sensitivity is enhanced by dual‐mode conduction, conductive sphere array, and deformation amplification induced by collagen fibers. Additionally, the strong bonding ability between glycerin and collagen fibers with water molecules provides anti‐freezing and moisture‐retention characteristics. Thus, the strategic synergy of compositional and structural design makes IECS a promising force‐sensing part of piezoresistive sensor for human movement, pulse frequency, cipher transmission, and pressure distribution. In short, IECS presents a multifunctional platform for the invention of high‐performance e‐skin with on‐demand property, which offers great application potential in wearable electronics.
A Long‐Life Aqueous Rechargeable Aluminum‐Ammonium Hybrid Battery
Authors: Yuan Xinhai , Wang Tao , Zhong Jiang , Peng Bohao , Zhou Qi , Xiong Xiaosong , Li Chunyang , Liu Lili , Chen Yuhui , Fu Lijun , Zhu Jian , Wu Xiongwei , Wu Yuping , Duan Xiangfeng
Published: December 2024

Aqueous rechargeable batteries (ARBs) offer a low‐cost, high‐safety, and fast‐reacting alternatives for large‐scale energy storage. However, their further practical applications are limited by challenges in achieving satisfactory energy density, long cycling lifetime, and cost‐effectiveness. In this study, an aqueous rechargeable aluminum‐ammonium hybrid battery is reported (AAHB) that utilizes a Prussian blue analogue (K1.14FeIII[FeII(CN)6]·nH2O) as an ultra‐stable cathode for reversibly accommodating ammonium ion, paired with aluminum‐ one of the lowest‐cost metals, aside from iron—as the anode. An average working voltage of 1.15 V, remarkable rate capability, and an attractive energy density of 89.3 Wh kg−1 are achieved. Notably, the Prussian blue analogue cathode exhibits almost no attenuation after an ultra‐long cycle life of 100,000 cycles, and the assembled AAHB demonstrates a long cycling lifespan exceeding 10,000 cycles. This work opens a door for exploring high‐performance and low‐cost ARBs for grid‐level energy storage.
All‐Solid‐State Batteries with Extremely Low N/P Ratio Operating at Low Stack Pressure
Authors: Oh Jihoon , Kwon Dohun , Choi Seung Ho , Lee Nohjoon , Sohn Yeeun , Lee Taegeun , Lee Taeyong , Kim Ji Young , Bae Ki Yoon , Choi Jang Wook
Published: December 2024

All‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) are emerging as promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage systems. However, their practical implementation faces significant challenges, particularly their requirement for an impractically high stack pressure. This issue is especially critical in high‐energy density systems with limited negative‐to‐positive electrode capacity ratios (N/P ratios), where uneven lithium (Li) stripping induces the formation of interfacial voids. This study addresses these challenges by introducing an anode with a novel structural design that operates effectively under practically viable conditions while significantly reducing the N/P ratio to less than one. The approach entails the integration of a lithiophilic magnesium (Mg) film beneath a thin layer of the silicon‐graphite (SiGr) active materials. This structure facilitates the deposition of excess Li beneath the SiGr layer during overcharging, which enables stable cycling even at room temperature and at a low stack pressure of 3 MPa. By mitigating the poor contact that is characteristic of ASSBs with a low stack pressure, and simultaneously increasing the energy density by lowering the N/P ratio, the design significantly advances the key electrochemical properties of ASSBs.
Unlocking Potential Benefits on Applications of Probiotics in Inland Aquaculture Industry: A Review
Authors: Vulla Kelvin E. , Mmanda Francis P. , Nyangoko Baraka P. , Makule Edna E.
Published: December 2024

Inland aquaculture operations are practised all over the world, contributing about 62.6% of all farmed aquatic animals. This venture is increasing worldwide and outpacing the global market demand for fish and fishery products driven by competition with other animals, over‐population and over‐exploitation of wild capture fisheries. These operations expand globally, associated with the degradation of the culture environment due to poor aquaculture management practices and algal blooms due to nutrient influxes as well as high demand of quality fish feeds of affordable price. To overcome these challenges, sustainable, healthy and environmentally friendly alternatives including probiotics application must be adopted to achieve better production, profitability and productivity as well as a resilient culture environment. In this review, information on potential applications of probiotics in aquaculture (inland aquaculture) focused on sources, safety, approved probiotics for aquaculture, characteristics of probiotics, mode of applications and its potential use on pathogenic microbes control, fish haematological parameters, growth performance and stress responses, water quality parameter, anti‐nutritional factors and feed digestibility, limitation of using probiotics in aquaculture and lastly future perspectives on the probiotics application in aquaculture industry were reviewed and compiled for future sustainable aquaculture production and productivity and environmentally friendly. The review has also highlighted all probiotics application and their approved authority for use in farmed freshwater fish (Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus, Catfish Clarias gariepinus, rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss and common carp Cyprinus carpio) and their cultured environment worldwide. Therefore, the review has comprised all information on the potential benefits application of probiotics in an inland aquaculture for public documentation and also identifies gaps in the aquaculture industry that require further research and assessment.
Associations of arthritis with functional disability and depressive symptoms in general US adults: NHANES 1988–1994 and 1999–2018
Authors: Liu Xiaoting , Huang Yunzhen , Fu Jinjing , Mohedaner Mayila , Danzengzhuoga  , Yang Gan , Yang Zhenqing , Li Xueqin , Ma Xinye , Zhang Qiqi , Liu Zuyun , Wu Xifeng , Ying Zhimin
Published: December 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the associations of arthritis with functional disability and depressive symptoms among general US adults. Additionally, it explored the relationship between radiographic knee osteoarthritis (assessed by X‐ray examination) and functional disability. Above findings seek to highlight the need for comprehensive physical and mental health management in individuals with arthritis.

Methods

We designed a cross‐sectional study utilizing multivariable logistic regression models to examine the associations. Odds ratios (OR) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CI) were documented in a crude model and three adjusted models. Participants were from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 1988–1994 and 1999–2018. Arthritis was self‐reported or graded by the Kellgren–Lawrence score after an objective X‐ray examination. Functional disability included disability in activities of daily living (ADL disability), instrumental activities of daily living (IADL disability), and mobility disability. Depressive symptom was assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ).

Results

We included 22,566 older adults (≥60 years; 10,961 had self‐reported arthritis) for functional disability analysis (2377 older adults with data on X‐ray examination; 1012 had radiographic knee osteoarthritis) and 32,056 adults (≥20 years; 9175 had self‐reported arthritis) for depressive symptom analysis. After controlling for all covariates, self‐reported arthritis was associated with ADL disability (odds ratios [OR]: 2.677; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.499–2.868), IADL disability (OR: 2.064; 95% CI: 1.940–2.196), and mobility disability (OR: 2.954; 95% CI: 2.778–3.142), and depressive symptom (OR: 2.177; 95% CI: 1.979–2.395). In participants with data on X‐ray examination, radiographic knee osteoarthritis was only associated with mobility disability (OR: 1.437; 95% CI: 1.183–1.744).

Conclusions

Self‐reported arthritis was associated with ADL disability, IADL disability and mobility disability, and depressive symptoms. Among participants with X‐ray data, radiographic knee osteoarthritis was only associated with mobility disability in general US adults. Appropriate managements of both physical and mental health are needed for individuals with arthritis.
The Role of Coordination Mechanisms and Transaction Costs Promoting Sustainability Performance in Agri‐Food Supply Chains: Evidence From Ecuador
Authors: Moreno‐Miranda Carlos , Dries Liesbeth
Published: December 2024

Social tensions and resource depletion pose significant challenges to the agri‐food sector, highlighting the need for coordinated strategies to ensure sustainability in supply chains. Despite its critical importance, the relationship between coordination mechanisms and sustainability performance remains underexplored. This study examines the interrelations between transactional characteristics, relational and formal coordination, and sustainability performance in agri‐food supply chains. By surveying 204 farmers and 135 downstream players across diverse supply chain arrangements, this research employs structural equation modeling and confirmatory factor analysis to analyze data suitability and test hypotheses. The empirical findings reveal nuanced relationships: relational governance has a significantly positive connection to economic and social sustainability within supply chains. There is also a positive, indirect relation between relational governance and ecological performance through the promotion of resource efficiency. Formal coordination practices facilitate strategic relationships and efficient resource allocation and as such connect to social and economic viability of supply chains. Transaction costs play a role as mediator between formal and relational coordination, and sustainability outcomes. Effective management of transaction costs can mitigate inefficiencies and foster collaborative efforts. By understanding these dynamics, policymakers and stakeholders can develop strategies to promote resilience and sustainability in global food systems.
A Review on Use of Electrolytes in Catalytic/ Sub‐Stoichiometric Amounts in Electro‐Organic Synthesis: A Much Greener Approach
Authors: Swaroop Toreshettahally R. , Suresh Rajaghatta N. , Umashankara Muddegowda , Rangappa Kanchugarakoppal S.
Published: December 2024

In this review, we have discussed the various types of organic electrochemical reactions which use catalytic/sub‐stoichiometric amount of inorganic and/or organic salts as electrolytes. We have also presented the plausible mechanism of each electro‐organic reaction. This review article highlights notable examples of electro‐organic synthesis published from 2000 to 2023.
Enhancing Quantum Entanglement Through Parametric Control of Atom‐Cavity States
Authors: Vesperini Arthur , Franzosi Roberto
Published: December 2024

Dicke states form a class of entangled states that has attracted much attention for their applications in various quantum algorithms. They emerge as eigenstates of the Tavis–Cummings (TC) Hamiltonian, a simplification of the Dicke model, which describes an assembly of two‐level atoms trapped in an electromagnetic cavity. In this letter, it is showed that in the regime where the field energy is large with respect to the atomic energy splitting, precise control of the ground state can be implemented. Specifically, pure Dicke states can be selected and produced by appropriate tuning of the parameters. This result may have important applications in quantum engineering and quantum information theory.
High‐Entropy Electrolytes with High Disordered Solvation Structures for Ultra‐Stable Zinc Metal Anodes
Authors: Wang Haoran , Deng Shenzhen , Wang Shuai , Li Wulong , Yuan Shixing , Han Jing , Fu Hongyan , Xu Bingang , Wei Lei
Published: December 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are playing an increasingly important role in the field of energy storage owing to their low cost, high safety, and environmental friendliness. However, their practical applications are still handicapped by severe dendrite formation and side reactions (e.g., hydrogen evolution reaction and corrosion) on the zinc anodes. Herein, a low‐concentration high‐entropy (HE) electrolyte strategy is proposed to achieve high reversibility and ultra‐durable zinc metal anode. Specifically, this HE electrolyte features multiple anions participating in coordination and highly disordered solvation shells, which would disrupt the intrinsic H‐bond network between water molecules and suppress interfacial side reactions. Moreover, these diversified weakly solvated structures can lower the solvation energy of Zn2+ solvation configurations and enhance zinc ion diffusion kinetics, thereby promoting uniform Zn deposition and electrode interface stability. Consequently, Zn||Zn symmetric cells exhibit over 2,000 hours of cycling stability, and Zn||Cu asymmetric cells achieve a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.9 % over 500 cycles. Furthermore, the Zn||PANI full cell with the optimized HE‐50 mM electrolyte delivers a high specific capacity of 110.7 mAh g−1 over 2,000 cycles at 0.5 A g−1 and a capacity retention of 70.4 % at 15 A g−1 after 10,000 cycles. Remarkably, even at a low temperature of −20 °C, the Zn||PANI full cells equipped with HE‐50 mM electrolyte still demonstrate long‐term cycling stability over 600 cycles with a high‐capacity retention of 93.5 %. This research provides a promising strategy for the design of aqueous electrolytes, aiding in the development of low‐cost, high‐safety, and high‐performance aqueous batteries.
Lattice Modulation on Singlet‐Triplet Splitting of Silver Cluster Boosting Near‐Unity Photoluminescence Quantum Yield
Authors: Tian Wei‐Dong , Zhang Chengkai , Paul Sayan , Si Wei‐Dan , Wang Zhi , Sun Pan‐Pan , Anoop Anakuthil , Tung Chen‐Ho , Sun Di
Published: December 2024

Developing thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF)‐active silver clusters with near‐unity quantum efficiency is of practical importance in cutting‐edge optoelectronic devices, but remains a tremendous challenge due to the difficulty of de novo synthesis and uncertainty of properties. Herein, we demonstrate a lattice modulation on parent TADF‐ active silver cluster, achieving TADF‐driven photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) from 12 % to near‐unity. Systematic experimental and calculated results reveal that the lattice modulation effectively lowers the singlet‐triplet splitting (ΔEST) from 718 to 549 cm‐1, thereby facilitating thermally activated reverse intersystem crossing: T5→S5, leading to extremely efficient TADF by surpassing both phosphorescence and non‐radiative decay, thus boosting the near‐unity PLQY. Such high PLQY is extremely rare in the TADF‐active silver clusters and even in the whole noble‐metal clusters. This research showcases an unparalleled example of lattice modulation to realize near unity PLQY of TADF‐active silver clusters.
Mass Transfer‐Enhanced Photothermal Membranes with Synergistic Light Utilization for High‐Turbidity Wastewater Purification
Authors: Fu Jiangchen , Xiao Shaoze , Cao Jiazhen , Liang Zhiyan , Chen Jiabin , Jiang Yue , Xing Mingyang
Published: December 2024

The photo‐Fenton process faces significant limitations in treating high‐turbidity, colored wastewater due to light attenuation and impurity interference (blocked mass transfer). To address these issues, we developed a suspended photothermal Fenton membrane by loading a photothermal catalyst on a hydrophobically modified cotton filter paper, enabling precise suspension 1 mm below the water surface. This design achieved 89.49 % light utilization and high chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, even in wastewater with extreme chromaticity (10 multiples) and turbidity (703 NTU). The enhanced photothermal conversion accelerated molybdenum co‐catalyzed Fenton reactions and improved peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation, maintaining over 90 % phenol removal for 15 days. Mechanistic simulations revealed improved mass transfer of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pollutants at the solid–liquid interface, with PMS diffusion identified as the rate‐limiting step. The membrane resisted fouling from suspended solids and maintained stable operation in soil‐containing solutions for 10 days. This innovative approach offers an efficient solution for degrading pollutants in dark‐colored, high‐turbidity wastewater, overcoming traditional process limitations.
A Trithia‐Bridged N‐Heterotriangulene: The Hitherto Missing Electron Donor
Authors: Borstelmann Jan , Gensch Viktoria , Fehn Dominik , Miehlich Matthias E. , Hampel Frank , Rominger Frank , Meyer Karsten , Kivala Milan
Published: December 2024

The very first representative of trithia‐bridged N‐heterotriangulene, a triphenylamine with sulfur atoms bridging the ortho‐positions, was synthesized by a sequence of regioselective sulfenylation with phthalimidesulfenyl chloride followed by Lewis acid‐catalyzed electrophilic cyclization. X‐ray crystallography revealed a saddle‐shaped geometry of the polycyclic scaffold. UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the optoelectronic properties. The title compound is a particularly strong electron donor forming a perfectly stable radical cation, which was analyzed by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography. The electron donor properties were further highlighted by the formation of crystalline donor‐acceptor complexes with strong cyano‐based acceptors.
Strengthening Wear Resistance of Porous Polyimide With Organic Silicon Coating
Authors: Xu Zhengrong , Li Jinbang , Li Kai , Shi Chenchun , Zhou Ningning , Hua Licheng , Yang Qingyu , Zhao Jilong , Qing Tao
Published: December 2024

Porous polyimide (PPI) possesses interconnected micro‐pores capable of storing lubricant oil. However, the strength of PPI was weakened by pores, resulting in a decrease in wear resistance. Herein, organic silicon coating (OSC) was used to strengthen the PPI surfaces. The oil storage capacity and tribological performance of the coated PPI with varying coating coverages were investigated. Results demonstrated that PPI surfaces were effectively protected by the OSC. Particularly noteworthy was the substantial reduction in friction coefficient by 50.9 wt.% and wear rate by 55.8 wt.% observed under a high load of 100 N (103.19 MPa) with a 79.31 wt.% coating coverage. Improving surface strength and shrinking surface pore size are the two beneficial effects of the OSC. On the one hand, the OSC has high hardness and excellent density, which improves the wear resistance of PPI surfaces. On the other hand, the OSC reduces the surface pore size of PPI, improves the load‐bearing capacity of the oil film, and thus reduces wear. This study provides a viable approach for strengthening the wear resistance of porous polymer materials.
Changes in Descending Pain Modulation During Anti–Tumor Necrosis Factor Therapy: A Prospective Study in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Spondyloarthritis
Authors: Trouvin Anne‐Priscille , Simunek Arielle , Coste Joël , Medkour Terkia , Combier Alice , Poiroux Lucile , Vidal François , Carvès Sandrine , Bouhassira Didier , Perrot Serge
Published: December 2024

Objective

In rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and spondyloarthritis (SpA), managing persistent pain remains challenging. Little is known regarding impaired pain pathways in these patients and the impact of biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs). The objective of the Rheumatism Pain Inhibitory Descending Pathways study was to assess pain thresholds and descending pain modulation in patients with active RA or SpA following introduction of a tumor necrosis factor inhibitor (TNFi).

Methods

Patients with active disease (50 with RA and 50 with SpA) naive to bDMARDs or targeted synthetic DMARDs and starting a TNFi were included. Patients were observed for six months after TNFi initiation with clinical, psychological, and pain assessment. At all visits, participants underwent quantitative sensory testing with heat and cold pain thresholds and descending inhibition by conditioned pain modulation (CPM). Descending pain control (CPM effect) was assessed as the change in heat pain threshold (°C) following a conditioning stimulus.

Results

Of the 100 patients (59 women, mean ± SD age 45.8 ± 14.6 years), 74 completed the six‐month follow‐up. Thermal pain thresholds did not significantly change during follow‐up. CPM effect improved significantly during follow‐up (mean ± SD 0.25 ±2.57°C at baseline and 2.96 ± 2.50°C at six months; P < 0.001). At the end of follow‐up, the mean CPM effect was significantly higher in patients without significant pain compared with patients with persistent pain (>3 of 10 on the Brief Pain Inventory) (mean ± SD 3.25 ± 2.68°C vs 2.47 ± 2.11°C; P = 0.04) and in patients achieving remission or low disease activity compared with patients with active rheumatism (mean ± SD 3.31 ± 2.68°C vs 2.18 ± 1.87°C; P = 0.01).

Conclusion

In active inflammatory rheumatisms, impaired descending pain modulation, but not thermal pain thresholds, is improved after TNFi treatment, suggesting a possible effect of TNFi on central pain modulation.
CEO Power and Carbon Emissions Management: Australian Evidence
Authors: Luong Hoa , Kumarasiri Jayanthi , Gunasekarage Abeyratna
Published: December 2024

We investigate how CEO power contributes to the emissions management of Australian companies. Constructing a CEO power index and employing firm‐level carbon emissions data, we document a significant negative relationship between CEO power and carbon emissions, suggesting that firms with powerful CEOs better manage their carbon emissions. Extending our analyses into different dimensions of power, we find that the CEO power–emissions management relationship mainly comes from structural power and expert power sources. Further analyses show that emissions management plays a significant mediating role in the association between CEO power and firm performance. A survey administered among sustainability managers of large Australian companies reveals corroborative evidence that the leadership of powerful CEOs is an essential element in managing carbon emissions and mitigating the risk associated with climate change. The findings of this study provide insights to policymakers, regulators and corporate top‐management teams regarding an issue that is under severe public scrutiny and social pressure.
Risk Factor Analysis and Prediction of Para‐Aortic Lymph Node Metastases in Locally Advanced Cervical Cancer
Authors: Wang Tinglu , Wei Jinchen , Jiang Li , Huang Lulu , Huang Tingting , Ma Shanshan , Huang Qiufeng , Zhang Yong , Wu Fang
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

The indications of prophylactic extended‐field radiotherapy (EFRT) remain uncertain. This study aims to identify the risk factors for para‐aortic lymph node (PALN) metastases in locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) and determine which part of patients may benefit from prophylactic EFRT.

Materials and Methods

Between January 2015 and July 2023, a single‐center retrospective analysis was performed on patients with stages IB3 and IIA2‐IVA cervical cancer. Lymph node involvement was assessed using positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT). Risk factors were evaluated by logistic regression. A prediction nomogram model was developed and validated.

Results

Among 329 patients, 64 (19.5%) had PALN metastases. Univariate analysis indicated that tumor size > 5.3 cm, tumor maximum standardized uptake value (SUVmax) > 9.8, bilateral pelvic lymph node (PLN) metastases, the number of positive PLNs ≥ 3, and T3–T4 stages were related to PALN metastases. After multivariate logistic analysis, it was found that tumor size > 5.3 cm (odds ratio [OR] = 3.129, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.536–6.374, p = 0.002), and the number of positive PLNs ≥ 3 (OR = 11.260, 95% CI = 3.506–36.158, p < 0.001) were independent risk factors. The C‐index of the nomogram was 0.886 (95% CI = 0.844–0.927). The calibration plot showed that the nomogram was well‐fitted. Decision curve analysis (DCA) exhibited excellent clinical utility.

Conclusion

Tumor size > 5.3 cm and the number of positive PLNs ≥ 3 are independent risk factors of PALN metastases. The nomogram shows pretty good accuracy, which may provide a valuable reference for guiding patients who are very likely to develop PALN metastases to receive prophylactic EFRT.
Synergistic Effect of Donepezil and Neurotropic B Vitamins on Dysregulated Antioxidant, Inflammation and Neurotransmitter Status in Aluminium Chloride‐Induced Neurotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Ekundayo Bidemi Emmanuel , Adewale Olusola Bolaji , Obafemi Blessing Ariyo , Ntwasa Monde McMillan , Lebelo Sogolo Lucky , Obafemi Tajudeen Olabisi
Published: December 2024

Combination therapy offers a promising advantage because they target multiple pathways involved in the pathogenesis and progression of Alzheimer's disease. This study aimed to investigate the synergistic effect of donepezil and each of vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and vitamin B1 on aluminium chloride (AlCl3)‐induced neurotoxicity in rats. Fifty‐four rats were divided into nine groups of six. Group I received distilled water, group II—AlCl3 (100 mg/kg), group III‐ AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Donepezil (10 mg/kg), group IV‐AlCl3(100 mg/kg) + Donepezil (10 mg/kg) + Vitamin B12 (5 mg/kg), group V‐AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Donepezil (10 mg/kg) + Vitamin B6 (5 mg/kg), group VI‐AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Donepezil (10 mg/kg) + Vitamin B1 (5 mg/kg), group VII‐AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Vitamin B12 (5 mg/kg), group VIII‐AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Vitamin B6 (5 mg/kg), group IX‐AlCl3 (100 mg/kg) + Vitamin B1 (5 mg/kg). Treatment lasted for 40 days. Biochemical analyses of the brain revealed that chronic administration of AlCl3 significantly increased the level of inflammatory cytokines, caspase 9, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, while causing a significant decrease in superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, Nrf2, reduced glutathione, dopamine and norepinephrine. Results also showed that AlCl3 caused cognitive impairment as indicated by a reduction in the percentage alternation index and hypo‐activity towards novel object in animals treated with AlCl3 only. Moreover, results from biochemical evaluations indicated that treatment with donepezil, B vitamins and combination of donepezil and B vitamins attenuated the deficits in dopamine, norepinephrine, Nrf2, SOD and reduced glutathione, while also reducing the elevated levels of malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, AChE, caspase 9 and inflammatory markers. These observations were corroborated by result of histopathological evaluation. The combination of donepezil and vitamin B12, B6 and B1 proved to be more effective than donepezil monotherapy. Donepezil conferred significant protection against AlCl3–induced neurotoxicity, however, the combination of donepezil and vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and Vitamin B1 significantly performed better in neuroprotective indices than donepezil monotherapy. The combination of donepezil and vitamin B1 was better amongst the three combination therapies in this study.
Thymol as Biofilm and Efflux Pump Inhibitor: A Dual‐Action Approach to Combat Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Shankar Das Bhabani , Sarangi Ashirbad , Pahuja Isha , Singh Vishal , Ojha Suvendu , Giri Sidhartha , Bhaskar Ashima , Bhattacharya Debapriya
Published: December 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a significant global health challenge, exacerbated by the emergence of drug‐resistant strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M. tb). The complex biology of M. tb, particularly its key porins, contributes to its resilience against conventional treatments, highlighting the exploration of innovative therapeutic strategies. Following with this challenges, the present study investigates the bioactivity properties of phenolic compounds derived from the terpene groups, specifically through Thymol (THY) against M. smegmatis as a surrogated model for M. tb. Furthermore, the study employed with combination of two approaches i.e., in vitro assays and computational methods to evaluate the efficacy of THY against M. smegmatis and its interaction with M. tb biofilm and efflux pump proteins, particularly Rv1258c and Rv0194. The in vitro findings demonstrated that THY exhibits inhibitory activity against M. smegmatis and shows promising interaction with a combination of isoniazid (INH) and rifampicin (RIF) of TB regimens. Furthermore, THY demonstrated significant inhibitory action towards motility and biofilm formation of M. smegmatis. The combination of THY with INH and RIF exhibited a synergistic effect, enhancing the overall antimicrobial efficacy. Additionally, THY displayed reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity and potential efflux pump inhibitory action towards M. smegmatis. The computational analysis revealed that THY interacts effectively with efflux pump proteins Rv1258c and Rv0194, showing superior binding affinity compared to verapamil, a known efflux pump inhibitor. Pharmacokinetic studies highlighted that THY possess a favourable safety profile. In conclusion, THY represents a promising inhibitory compound for tuberculosis prevention, potentially addressing challenges posed by drug resistance.
Impact of Right Ventricular to Pulmonary Artery Coupling on Survival Following Indirect Mitral Annuloplasty
Authors: Rottländer Dennis , Golabkesh Milad , Degen Hubertus , Barlagiannis Dimitrios , Ögütcü Alev , Saal Martin , Haude Michael
Published: December 2024

Background

Right ventricular‐to‐pulmonary artery (RV‐PA) coupling is an important predictor of long‐term survival following transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair. However, its impact on survival in patients undergoing indirect mitral annuloplasty is unknown. The study aimed to assess the impact of baseline RV‐PA coupling on survival following indirect mitral annuloplasty in heart failure patients.

Methods

Patients were classified according to baseline RV‐PA coupling: TAPSE (tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion)/PASP (pulmonary artery systolic pressure) > 0.55 (group 1), ≤ 0.55 ≥ 0.32 (group 2) and ≤ 0.32 (group 3). Clinical follow‐up and RV function were assessed 3 and 12 months following indirect annuloplasty.

Results

A TAPSE/PASP > 0.55 was found in 19 patients, while 47 patients showed a TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.55 > 0.32 and 26 a TAPSE/PASP ≤ 0.32. A significant reduction in vena contracta and regurgitant volume compared to baseline was found in all groups at 3‐months and 12‐months follow‐up. One‐year mortality was significantly increased in group 3 compared to the other groups (group 1: 0.95, group 2: 0.91, group 3: 0.77; Log‐Rank test p = 0.018). In groups 2 and 3 the TAPSE/PASP significantly improved during the 12‐months follow‐up, while it remained unchanged in group 1 (group 1: baseline = 0.71 ± 0.03, 12‐months = 0.67 ± 0.01; group 2: baseline = 0.43 ± 0.06, 12‐months: 0.56 ± 0.04; group 3: baseline = 0.25 ± 0.06, 12‐months: 0.4 ± 0.03; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

RV‐PA uncoupling before indirect mitral annuloplasty is associated with poor survival. However, Carillon device implantation improved right heart function and RV‐PA coupling in patients with severe RV dysfunction at baseline. Therefore, Carillon device implantation can be a valuable option for transcatheter treatment of patients with FMR and right heart failure.
Mechanism‐Guided Development of Bifunctional Cyclooctenes as Active, Practical, and Light‐Gated Bromination Catalysts
Authors: Nagano Tagui , Shimazu Takuto , Ono Yusuke , Kaneko Kazuma , Matsubara Seijiro , Yamanaka Masahiro , Uraguchi Daisuke , Asano Keisuke
Published: December 2024

Most molecular catalysts have been developed employing polar functional groups as catalytic sites. However, the use of non‐polar functional groups for catalysis has received less attention due to their modest molecular interactions while the bioorthogonal reactivity of non‐polar alkenes as substrates is frequently used in click chemistry. In this study, we conducted mechanistic studies on the catalysis of trans‐cyclooctene (TCO) derivatives with the strained olefin as the catalytic site using kinetic and computational analyses to aid the design of more active olefin catalysts. The analysis reveals the significant role of the benzyl substituents in accelerating the generation of bromonium species through dispersion interaction in the rate‐determining step. Guided by the mechanistic insights, we developed bifunctional TCO catalysts bearing a functionalized benzyl group, taking advantage of the remarkable substituent effects. Experimental studies confirmed the theoretical model and revealed that TCO with a para‐hydroxybenzyl group provided excellent catalytic activity. Furthermore, inclusion of the functionalized benzyl groups allowed more readily available and robust cis‐cyclooctenes to be used as active catalysts, expanding the practical utility of the olefin catalysts. By using a photochemically labile masking group on the para‐hydroxybenzyl substituent, the first light‐gated bromination catalyst was developed, enabling spatiotemporal control of the transformation.
Ligand‐Controlled Regioselective Alkoxycarbonylation of Nonfunctionalized Unsymmetric Internal Alkynes
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Zhen , Shen Chaoren , Dong Kaiwu
Published: December 2024

Pd‐catalyzed alkoxycarbonylation of internal alkynes provides a straightforward access to α,β‐disubstituted acrylic esters. Compared with the well‐established regioselective alkoxycarbonylation of terminal alkynes, the regioselective hydrocarboxylation of non‐functionalized unsymmetric internal alkynes was more challenging owing to the delicate differences of properties between the two substituents. Herein, by using either monophosphine ligand based on 2,3‐dihydrobenzo[d][1,3]oxaphosphole motif or bidentate ligand Ph‐Phox, the regioselective alkoxycarbonylations of aryl‐aryl, aryl‐alkyl and alkyl‐alkyl disubstituted alkynes were achieved, giving a diversity of trisubstituted α,β‐unsaturated carboxylic esters with moderate to excellent yields and high regioselectivity. The synthetic utility of obtained α,β‐disubstituted acrylic esters was demonstrated.
DiQuinoline‐MonoQuinazoline: A Flat Proton Binder and its Application as a Polyaromatic Hydrocarbon Scavenger and G4 Ligand
Authors: Karimata Taiga , Xu Wei , Kumagai Naoya
Published: December 2024

A new miniaturized framework for graphitic material featuring three neighboring pyridinic nitrogen atoms is disclosed. The quinoline/quinazoline hybridized pseudo trimeric macrocycle, DiQuinoline(Q)‐MonoQuinazolines(Qz), Q2Qz1, was readily synthesized from the key macrocyclic amide precursor in a modular fashion. Its central cavity strongly captures a proton, and the thus‐formed positively charged, highly planar architecture exhibits supramolecular complexation through π‐interactions. Q2Qz1, with its unique properties, was applied as a scavenger for toxic polyaromatic hydrocarbons and as a G‐quartet ligand for potential therapeutic agent for cancer chemotherapy.
Temporal Trends in Mortality Related to Stroke and Atrial Fibrillation in the United States: A 21‐Year Retrospective Analysis of CDC‐WONDER Database
Authors: Ahmad Owais , Farooqi Hanzala Ahmed , Ahmed Isra , Jamil Adeena , Nabi Rayyan , Ullah Irfan , Khan Abdul Wali , Ahmed Raheel , Alam Mahboob , Cortese Bernardo , Mamas Mamas A.
Published: December 2024

Aims

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is one of the most strongly associated risk factors for stroke. Our study aims to analyze changes in mortality from 1999 to 2020 in patients with AF and stroke.

Methods

Using the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention Wide‐Ranging Online Data for Epidemiologic Research (CDC‐WONDER), we retrospectively analyzed annual age‐adjusted mortality rates (AAMR) per million from 1999 to 2020 in stroke patients with AF. Temporal trends were analyzed, and Annual Percentage Change (APC) was calculated using the JoinPoint regression model across variations in demographics (sex, race) and regional subgroups.

Results

Around 490 000 deaths were reported between 1999 and 2020 from stroke and AF across the 25–85+ age group. AAMR initially decreased until 2008 (APC = –0.9), followed by an increase till 2020 (APC = 1.1). Women had a higher AAMR than men throughout the years. Non‐Hispanic white patients had a marginally higher AAMR than all other races and ethnicities. The highest AAMR was observed in the western region. States like Vermont, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Minnesota, and West Virginia were in the top 90th percentile, while Nevada, Louisiana, Florida, New York, New Mexico, and Arizona were in the bottom 10th percentile. Nonmetropolitan areas had consistently higher AAMRs throughout the 2 decades.

Conclusion

An overall rise in mortality has been observed in stroke and AF patients, with a greater surge in 2019. The need for healthcare policy changes, especially in areas with high mortality and awareness of healthier lifestyle factors, can be an essential preventative measure to help mitigate growing mortality rates.
Converting the CHF3 Greenhouse Gas into Nanometer‐Thick LiF Coating for High‐Voltage Cathode Li‐ion Batteries Materials
Authors: Štefančič Aleš , Vaz Carlos Antonio Fernandes , Baster Dominika , Müller Elisabeth , El Kazzi Mario
Published: December 2024

Solving the surface (electro−)chemical instability and the fading behavior of high voltage cathode materials cycled above 4.3 V vs Li+/Li remains a major challenge for the next generation of high energy density Li‐ion batteries. Here, we present a facile, environmentally friendly, cost effective and scalable method to address this problem by uniformly fluorinating the surface of cathode materials with a mild fluorinating agent (CHF3) using a gas flow‐type reactor. CHF3, well known as a potent greenhouse gas, is successfully transformed into a stable ~2 nm LiF homogenous layer by converting the adventitious Li2CO3 layer covering the surface of the vast majority of layered‐oxide cathode materials. The fluorination mechanism and the interface stability of the LiF coating layer is systematically studied on LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 using synchrotron surface spectroscopy techniques, operando XRD and TEM. In addition, we demonstrate improved electrochemical cycling performance of the LiF coated LiNi0.8Co0.15Al0.05O2 when cycled up to 4.5 V where the impedance and overpotential decrease by 30 % and 100 mV respectively after 100 cycles, with a capacity retention better than 94 % and improved rate performance at high current density. Furthermore, the universality of the fluorination approach is validated further on Ni‐rich LiNi0.85Co0.1Mn0.05O2 cathode material cycled up to 4.3 and 4.8 V vs Li+/Li.
Quasi‐Z‐Source Cascaded Multilevel Inverter With Master‐Division Control for Photovoltaic Grid Connection
Authors: Jin Ningzhi , Hou Jiaowei , Jiang Jiaxin , Yang Jing , Sun Dongyang
Published: December 2024

The quasi‐Z‐source cascaded multilevel inverter (qZS‐CMI) can achieve the boost function through the shoot‐through state without the requirement of an additional DC boost circuit. Thus, the efficiency of the system is improved, and each power module can be controlled independently, which makes it more suitable for distributed photovoltaic power generation systems. This paper proposes a multi‐carrier phase‐shifted PWM (MPSPWM) that inserts a shoot‐through signal at the switching moment, in order to address the high switching frequency problem caused by simple boost modulation in qZS‐CMI. In order to improve the dynamic response of the system and reduce the grid‐connected current distortion of qZS‐CMI, this paper proposes a master‐division grid‐connected control strategy. The DC‐link voltage division controllers use the sliding mode control to achieve DC‐link voltage stabilization, and the grid‐connected current master controller adopts an improved deadbeat control to achieve fast tracking of grid‐connected current. When the output power of PV arrays is inconsistent, the differential power allocation between modules is realized by setting the module power allocation factor. Finally, the effectiveness and feasibility of the above theory are verified by three‐module cascaded qZS‐CMI simulation and experiment.
Research Progress of Endoplasmic Reticulum Targeting Metal Complexes in Cancer Therapy
Authors: Xu Shihang , Wu Xiaoling , Zhu Jia , Wu Qiuming , Gao Lijuan , Yang Feng , Zhang Zhenlei
Published: December 2024

The development of anticancer drugs that target different organelles has received extensive attention due to the characteristics of cancer recurrence, metastasis, and drug resistance. The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is an important structure within the cell that is primarily responsible for protein synthesis, folding, modification, and transport and plays a crucial role in cell function and health. ER stress activation induces cancer cell apoptosis. New anticancer drugs with different anticancer mechanisms and selectivity can be designed because of redox activity, composition diversity, and metal complexes structure regulation. Over the past few decades, dozens of metal complexes have killed cancer cells through ER stress, showing powerful tumor‐suppressive effects. This review summarizes the progress of research on anticancer metallic drugs that induce ER stress over the past few years, which is expected to bring more breakthroughs in the field of medicine and life science.