bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FITOTOXICIDADE DE EXTRATOS DE Dasyphyllum tomentosum (Spreng). Cabrera
Authors: PAULA Cristiane Da Silva , MIGUEL Obdúlio Gomes , MIGUEL Marilis Dallarmi
Published: January 2017

Este trabalho visou avaliar a ação fitotóxica de extrato e frações obtidas da casca do caule de Dasyphyllum tomentosum sobre a atividade das enzimas α-amilase, catalase, peroxidase, polifenoloxidase e superóxido dismutase em plântulas de alface (Lactuca sativa, var Grand rapis). Sementes de alface foram expostas às concentrações de 250, 500 e 1000 µg.mL-1do extrato de D. tomentosum e frações do mesmo, em condições ambientais controladas. No sétimo dia após germinação, as amostras foram submetidas à avaliação da atividade enzimática utilizando técnica específica para cada enzima e leitura espectrofotométrica. O efeito sobre as enzimas que demonstram alterações no sistema de defesa antioxidante de L. sativa mostram que o extrato bruto e frações alteraram a produção das enzimas α- amilase, peroxidase, catalase e polifenol oxidase em, ao menos, uma das concentrações testadas, sendo um indicativo de estresse que interfere na divisão celular. Os resultados obtidos apontam para a presença de compostos com atividade inibidora ou estimulatória nas cascas de D. tomentosum revelando potencial fitotóxico sobre as plântulas de alface.
Effect of relaxation therapy on depression, anxiety, stress and quality of life among diabetic patients
Authors: Ebrahem Sabah M. , Masry Samah E.
Published: January 2017

Objective: The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of relaxation therapy on depression, anxiety, stress, quality of life, and blood glucose levels among patients diagnosed with type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM).Methods: A quasi-experimental research design was used. Sample: Convenience sample of 70 patients was recruited and assigned to one of two groups, an intervention group (Group A) and a control group (Group B). A table of random numbers was generated and used to make group assignments. Setting: The study was conducted at Medical Outpatient Clinics in Menoufia University Hospital, Menoufia governorate, Egypt. Instruments: Data collection included a structured interview questionnaire that included socio-demographic characteristics and clinical data, the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL-BRIEF).Results: The findings indicate that anxiety level, stress, depression, and quality of life were improved in the intervention group with a statistically significant degree compared to the control group.Conclusions: Relaxation therapy improved depression, anxiety, stress, quality of life, and blood glucose levels among patients diagnosed with T2DM.Recommendation: Relaxation therapy, patient education programs and treatment protocols should be integrated into the medical outpatient clinic to assist patients diagnosed with T2DM to cope with their stress, anxiety, depression, and enhance blood glucose control.
A case of Wilms tumor with right ventricular extension of tumor thrombus
Authors: Çakan Mustafa , Tokuç Ayşe Gülnur , Karadeniz Cerit Kıvılcım , Ak Koray , Ergelen Rabia
Published: January 2017

Primary renal tumors comprise 6% of all childhood cancers. Wilms tumor is the most common primary renal tumor in pediatric age group and the peak age of diagnosis is 3-4 years. In 10% of cases tumor extension into hepatic vein and inferior vena cava can be seen. But tumor extension into whole inferior vena cava, right atrium and right ventricle is only seen in less than 1% of patients. A 2-year-old girl was admitted to the hospital because of abdominal distension that was noticed by the parents two weeks ago. Imaging studies revealed that she had a mass at the right renal lodge which was favoring to Wilms tumor and on thorax tomography tumor thrombus was seen in the whole inferior vena cava, right atrium and right ventricle. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was given for 7 weeks. On the 8th week of diagnosis, under cardiopulmonary bypass, surgical operation by pediatric and cardiovascular surgery teams for primary renal tumor and for cavo-atrial tumor thrombus was performed. Pathological examination of the mass was reported as stage 3 diffuse anaplastic Wilms tumor. The patient completed 24 weeks of chemotherapy protocol and she is being followed for 15 months without any morbidity. We present our case to emphasize the importance of multidisciplinary approach in Wilms tumor with cardiac extension.
On the War Ethics of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle
Authors: Guo Zhaolei , Ma Jie , Wang Xiaocun
Published: January 2017

The application of the armed UAV has been questioned for years. This paper hopes to examine the ethical rationality of using the armed UAV. Before this, we question some blames from the Pacifists, especially the blaming on using UAV in the military attack on terrorists. Ethical questions about the UAV’ military actions mainly concentrate in two aspects: the right to life and ethics of science and technology. The former involves the subjects' value sequencing and moral selection problem, which requires discussions under specific situations, otherwise it will make no sense. As for the latter, ethics of technology, defects would be resolved in the development. It’s important to not get technological risk and scientific ethics confused, which would make discussions on a wrong way. ions and laws related to deep seabed mining to mitigate its effect to the marine environment coinciding to the requirements of these conventions. The purpose of this study is to explore the preparedness of Malaysia to embark on exploration of deep seabed mining in areas beyond the national jurisdiction while observing the effects of deep seabed mining to the marine environment. The challenges in exploring the deep seabed mining as well as the relevant international and national laws related to deep seabed mining will also be observed in this study.
The Application of Discriminant Model in Managing Credit Risk for Consumer Loans in Vietnamese Commercial Bank
Authors: Duong Nguyen Thuy , Thi Thu Ha Do , Bich Ngoc Nguyen
Published: January 2017

The study focus on analysing financial status of consumer credit customers of Vietnamese commercial banks through two group discriminant function. Five independent variables were used in which some variables are related with the loan and the others are related with the demographic and socio-economic conditions of the borrower. Particularly, the variables related with the demographic and socio-economic conditions of the borrower are age; number of dependents; years at present job and salary while the independent variable related with the loan is loan amount. The result indicates that the estimated function is significant at 1 per cent level of significance and could forecast financial health with average 72.3 per cent accuracy. Therefore, in this study, the demographic, socio-economic and loan related variables can be used to determine the expected group membership of the borrowers in Vietnam.
Implementing Scientific Approach to Teach English at Senior High School in Indonesia
Authors: Zaim M.
Published: January 2017

Scientific approach is a teaching strategy using scientific steps in teaching subject matter at senior high school in Indonesia. Scientific approach has the characteristics of “doing science” that allows teachers to improve the process of learning by breaking the process down into steps which contain detailed instruction for conducting student learning. Although the scientific approach offers significant breakthrough in improving the quality of teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) at Senior High School in Indonesia, there were still some obstacles faced by English teachers. This study aimed at investigating the implementation of scientific approach to teach English at Senior High School in Indonesia and problems of teaching and learning in implementing scientific approach. The data were collected through observation of teaching learning process and interview with the teachers and the students in two senior high schools in Padang, Indonesia. The findings showed that, among the five steps of scientific approach, the teachers were not able to implement the observing and questioning steps optimally yet. Meanwhile, in experimenting and associating the teachers have applied them well, and in communicating the teachers have applied them optimally.
Effects of Community Based Learning in Ceramic, Sakraloke’s Sukhothai
Authors: Soodsang Nirat
Published: January 2017

The purposes of this research were 1) to establish the community-based learning process of Sukhothai Sangkhalok ceramic work; 2) to design Sangkhalok ceramics for marketing competitiveness and community economic development; and 3) to evaluate the learning outcome of student with the community on Sukhothai Sankhalok designs. The research involved a simple-random sample of 40 second year students majoring product and packaging design of the Department of Art and Design. The community-based learning model in Sukhothai Sankhalok ceramic work as a research tool consisted of the learning plan, activities, and evaluation form. The researcher undertook a field work to collect data from the 3 Sangkhalok ceramics manufacturers in Sukhothai province, namely: 1) Suthep Sangkhalok, Tambon Muang Kao, Amphur Muang Suthothai; 2) Usa Sangkhalok Tambon Muang Kao, Amphur Muang Suthothai 3) Bua Sangkhalok, Tambon Muang Kao, Amphur Muang Suthothai. The data analysis focused on 2 areas, i.e. the analysis of ceramics community on its history, community’s operation model, and the analysis of students’ learning outcome. The analysis employed descriptive statistics and a comparison of learning outcomes against the 80 % criterion with one-sample statistics. The findings suggested that the community-based learning model of Sukhothai Sangkhaloke ceramic work as obtained in this research comprised 4 components: 1) strengthening community economics and community enterprise development; 2) promoting participatory learning process; 3) naintaining and building the capacity of local wisdom, and 4) building network and collaboration to link the knowledge and local wisdom. The Sangkhalok ceramic design works were in 3 collections: 1) Sangkhalok ceramics in swan shape with decorating technique of color painting under the glaze, in 4 styles, and 2) Sangkhalok ceramics in dragon shape with decorating technique of gold color water drawing, in 4 styles, and 3) Sangkhalok in Ganesh shape, in 3 styles. Students who designed the ceramics by the concept of Sukhothai ceramic art model showed the learning outcome with average scores at 84.50 % which was higher than the set criterion at 0.05 level of significance.
Repensando o reconhecimento: a crítica de Nancy Fraser ao modelo identitário de Axel Honneth.
Authors: Spinelli Letícia Machado
Published: January 2017

O presente artigo intenta investigar o debate entre Nancy Fraser e Axel Honneth a partir de suas respectivas concepções de reconhecimento: modelo identitário e modelo do status social. Esse artigo traça comparações e aproximações entre esses autores no que se refere à base reflexiva de cada um. Pretende-se identificar os pressupostos que levaram Fraser a criticar o modelo clássico bem como as teses que subjazem ao discurso de Honneth em prol do binômio reconhecimento e identidade.
Violência contra mulheres no Brasil e no Uruguai: as experiências da Lei Maria da Penha e da Lei de Violência Doméstica.
Authors: Sandalowski Mari Cleise , Da Maia Gabriela Felten , Stuker Paola , Lock Maruá Pereira
Published: January 2017

O presente trabalho resulta de um estudo sociológico sobre as situações violência conjugal contra mulheres. O enfoque teórico-metodológico orienta-se pela perspectiva da sociologia jurídica. O objetivo da pesquisa foi realizar um estudo sobre as mudanças implementadas pelas leis de violência contra mulheres existentes no Brasil e no Uruguai, em suas aplicações sucedidas nas relações conjugais. Foram selecionadas três regiões do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul (norte, centro e fronteira) e uma cidade uruguaia, fronteira com o Brasil, onde se analisaram dados referentes aos anos de 2005 a 2009, a partir de coleta em delegacias do Rio Grande do Sul e dos informativos sobre violência no Uruguai. Observou-se que a violência conjugal está presente no cotidiano das mulheres dessas regiões, independente dos seus contextos socioeconômicos e culturais. Apesar dos avanços, as leis de proteção às mulheres são limitadas, especialmente no que tange à proteção e prevenção dessa forma de violência.
A TV como agente político da visibilidade ecológica no Brasil: uma perspectiva sociológica.
Authors: Barros Antonio Teixeira de
Published: January 2017

O artigo analisa a televisão como um agente político de visibilidade ecológica no Brasil, a partir de uma perspectiva sociológica. Estuda a influência das duas principais matrizes culturais da televisão e como elas são atualizadas e hoje combinadas no âmbito do telejornalismo e da teledramaturgia. A matriz simbólica dramática que orienta a teledramaturgia é baseada em julgamentos de valor do senso comum, com a oposição entre os argumentos e a utilização de símbolos e imagens que causam impacto visual e emocional sobre o público. A matriz racional, representada pelo jornalismo baseia-se na suposta objetividade e racionalidade dos argumentos, ou seja, na troca de razões públicas e esclarecimento do público. A principal conclusão é que ambas se combinam e se complementam no atual contexto da televisão em relação ao conteúdo ecológico divulgado.
Mothers with Intellectual Disabilities Raising Children with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Parchomiuk Monika
Published: January 2017

The article describes the results of research involving mothers with intellectual disabilities. The aim of author's own study was to learn about maternal experiences related to raising children with intellectual disabilities. The experiences were described in greater detail in relation to the diagnosed disabilities of their children, early stage of their upbringing, problems emerging during their development, involvement of significant (supporting) persons. In addition, issues addressed in the study included description of maternal competences, the subjective meaning and essence of motherhood, and perception of the role of one's own disability in acting as a mother. Moreover, factors related to life situation of mothers, their previous experiences, especially experiences in their families of origin and personality features significant for the quality of motherhood, were identified.
Osmolyte regulation by TonEBP/NFAT5 during anoxia-recovery and dehydration–rehydration stresses in the freeze-tolerant wood frog (Rana sylvatica)
Authors: Al-attar Rasha , Zhang Yichi , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: January 2017

Background

The wood frog,Rana sylvatica, tolerates freezing as a means of winter survival. Freezing is considered to be an ischemic/anoxic event in which oxygen delivery is significantly impaired. In addition, cellular dehydration occurs during freezing because water is lost to extracellular compartments in order to promote freezing. In order to prevent severe cell shrinkage and cell death, it is important for the wood frog to have adaptive mechanisms for osmoregulation. One important mechanism of cellular osmoregulation occurs through the cellular uptake/production of organic osmolytes like sorbitol, betaine, and myo-inositol. Betaine and myo-inositol are transported by the proteins BGT-1 and SMIT, respectively. Sorbitol on the other hand, is synthesized inside the cell by the enzyme aldose reductase. These three proteins are regulated at the transcriptional level by the transcription factor, NFAT5/TonEBP. Therefore, the objective of this study was to elucidate the role of NFAT5/TonEBP in regulating BGT-1, SMIT, and aldose reductase, during dehydration and anoxia in the wood frog muscle, liver, and kidney tissues.

Methods

Wood frogs were subjected to 24 h anoxia-4 h recovery and 40% dehydration-full rehydration experiments. Protein levels of NFAT5, BGT-1, SMIT, and aldose reductase were studied using immunoblotting in muscle, liver, and kidney tissues.

Results

Immunoblotting results demonstrated downregulations in NFAT5 protein levels in both liver and kidney tissues during anoxia (decreases by 41% and 44% relative to control for liver and kidney, respectively). Aldose reductase protein levels also decreased in both muscle and kidney tissues during anoxia (by 37% and 30% for muscle and kidney, respectively). On the other hand, BGT-1 levels increased during anoxia in muscle (0.9-fold compared to control) and kidney (1.1-fold). Under 40% dehydration, NFAT5 levels decreased in liver by 53%. Aldose reductase levels also decreased by 42% in dehydrated muscle, and by 35% in dehydrated liver. In contrast, BGT-1 levels increased by 1.4-fold in dehydrated liver. SMIT levels also increased in both dehydrated muscle and liver (both by 0.8-fold).

Discussion

Overall, we observed that osmoregulation through an NFAT5-mediated pathway is both tissue- and stress-specific. In both anoxia and dehydration, there appears to be a general reduction in NFAT5 levels resulting in decreased aldose reductase levels, however BGT-1 and SMIT levels still increase in certain tissues. Therefore, the regulation of osmoregulatory genes during dehydration and anoxia occurs beyond the transcriptional level, and it possibly involves RNA processing as well. These novel findings on the osmoregulatory mechanisms utilized by the wood frog advances our knowledge of osmoregulation during anoxia and dehydration. In addition, these findings highlight the importance of using this model to study molecular adaptations during stress.
Detecting heterogeneity in single-cell RNA-Seq data by non-negative matrix factorization
Authors: Zhu Xun , Ching Travers , Pan Xinghua , Weissman Sherman M. , Garmire Lana
Published: January 2017

Single-cell RNA-Sequencing (scRNA-Seq) is a fast-evolving technology that enables the understanding of biological processes at an unprecedentedly high resolution. However, well-suited bioinformatics tools to analyze the data generated from this new technology are still lacking. Here we investigate the performance of non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) method to analyze a wide variety of scRNA-Seq datasets, ranging from mouse hematopoietic stem cells to human glioblastoma data. In comparison to other unsupervised clustering methods including K-means and hierarchical clustering, NMF has higher accuracy in separating similar groups in various datasets. We ranked genes by their importance scores (D-scores) in separating these groups, and discovered that NMF uniquely identifies genes expressed at intermediate levels as top-ranked genes. Finally, we show that in conjugation with the modularity detection method FEM, NMF reveals meaningful protein-protein interaction modules. In summary, we propose that NMF is a desirable method to analyze heterogeneous single-cell RNA-Seq data. The NMF based subpopulation detection package is available at:https://github.com/lanagarmire/NMFEM.
Advanced Hierarchical Computational Modeling‐Based Rational Development of Platinum (II) Nanocomplex to Improve Lung Cancer Therapy
Authors: Huang Haozhe , Ji Beihong , Huang Yixian , Li Shichen , Luo Zhangyi , Chen Shangyu , Li Sihan , Chen Yuang , Bain Daniel J. , Sun Jingjing , Yang Da , Burns Timothy F. , Wang Junmei , Li Song
Published: September 2024

Cancer stem cells (CSCs) are known to be one of the determining factors that contribute to therapeutic resistance. However, much remains to be understood about the reprogramming network leading to the generation of CSCs driven by chemotherapy. In this study, guided by bioinformatics study, deeper insight is uncovered and provided into the CSC enrichment mechanism driven by cisplatin (CDDP) treatment. It is discovered that CDDP can repopulate the level of CSC by activating AKT1 oncogenic pathway that is further enhanced by COX‐2 inflammatory signaling. Simultaneously blocking these two pathways can synergistically restrain the number of CSCs. Under the guidance of advanced hierarchical computational modeling, including molecular docking, molecular dynamics (MD) simulation and binding free energy analysis, MK‐2206 is selected as the AKT1 inhibitor to achieve optimal codelivery of CDDP, MK‐2206 and 5‐ASA (COX‐2 inhibitor) through 5‐ASA‐derivatized dual functional immunostimulatory nanocarrier (PASA). This triple combination (PASA/CDDP/MK‐2206) significantly reduces tumor burden in both orthotopic and metastatic lung cancer models. Mechanistic studies show that this improved therapeutic activity is due to elimination of CSCs and reversal of the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. This study suggests that PASA/CDDP/MK‐2206 may represent a simple and effective lung cancer therapy via reversing CSCs‐associated chemoresistance.
Carbon Dot‐Based Smart Soil with Automatically Adjustable Porosity and Aggregate Size
Authors: Niu Qianjie , Jiang Jiwei , Zhan Changsong , Tao Yujie , Ye Zijun , Huang Jian , Dong Bin , Kang Zhenhui
Published: September 2024

With the world's population expanding rapidly, modern agriculture is evolving at a swift pace, leading to a significant increase in food production, primarily through the use of chemical fertilizers. However, this heavy reliance on fertilizers has led to issues such as soil compaction and decrease of earthworm abundance. Herein this study reports a smart soil consisting of conventional soil and carbon dots (CDot) based smart material which is capable of automatically adjusting its porosity and soil aggregate size. Due to the responsiveness, The CDot‐based smart soil can lift its height up to 150% upon humidity stimulation due to the increased porosity which is similar to the effect caused by earthworms. Based on this effect, this smart soil can increase the growth rate of maize seedlings by 40%, thus showing great potentials in agriculture.
Direct Ionic Ink Writing on and Penetrating into Elastomer for Patternable, Waterproof, and Wear‐Resistant Ionic Circuits
Authors: An Yao , Wu Junshi , Xu Beihang , Zhu Jinghao , Ma Antong , Wang Wenjin , Yang Yongjia , Lian Xiaodong , Yang Zhaoxiang , Wang Yapei , He Yonglin
Published: September 2024

The increasing need for ionic circuits has driven the demand for patterning methods with excellent wear resistance and ease of preparation. However, the traditional method of the circuits modified on the surface frequently suffers from wear and detachment during use. Herein, an interpenetrating network of poly(ionic liquid) and polyurethane is employed, creating a patternable ionic circuit that can resist the abrasion of sandpaper or taping. Hydrophobic ionic liquids are successfully polymerized inside the polyurethane to achieve a waterproof ionic circuit, simultaneously reducing the impact of environmental humidity. Additionally, this ionic circuit possesses the capability to perceive the multisignals of temperature, pressure, and pressing shapes with the assistance of artificial intelligence. The interpenetrating network provides a simple and practical solution for the fabrication of wear‐resistant and stable patterned ionic circuits.
Low‐Temperature and Fast‐Charging Sodium Metal Batteries Enabled by Molecular Structure Regulation of Fluorinated Solvents
Authors: Gao Yiwen , Wang Zhicheng , Tu Haifeng , Xue Jiangyan , Weng Shixiao , Lu Suwan , Liu Lingwang , Sun Guochao , Peng Keyang , Zhang Xin , Li Dejun , Liu Yang , Xu Jingjing , Li Hong , Wu Xiaodong
Published: September 2024

Reversible cycling of sodium metal batteries (SMBs) is limited by Na dendrite growth, unstable solid‐electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation, and poor Na+ transport/de‐solvation kinetics, especially under the conditions of low‐temperature and fast‐charging. Here, a series of electrolytes for low‐temperature and fast‐charging SMBs by regulating the molecular structure of solvents is presented, in which ethyl acetate (EA) is selected as a baseline solvent, ethyl difluoroacetate (EDFA) and 2,2‐difluoroethyl acetate (DFEA) solvents are obtained by introducing difluorination group into EA molecule at different positions. It is found that the difluorination at the space‐position of oxygen in DFEA causes the lowest binding energy with Na+, which brings faster Na+ transport/de‐solvation ability in DFEA‐based electrolytes. In addition, more ionic aggregates (AGGs) structures are also observed in DFEA‐based electrolytes, leading to a stable inorganic‐rich SEI layer formed on the Na‐metal surface. Therefore, the optimal DFEA‐based electrolyte shows prolonged cycle life (>1500 h) in Na||Na cell and evidently improves cycle performance in the Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP)||Na cell at −20 °C, achieving high discharge capacity (93.64 mAh g−1 at 0.5C) and ultra‐stable capacity retention (99.27% after 400 cycles). Furthermore, the NVP||Na cell also reveals outstanding fast‐charging ability at room temperature, showing capacity retention of 81.84% at 10C over 1000 cycles.
Oxidized Carbon Nanoparticles Enhance Cellular Energetics With Application to Injured Brain
Authors: Mouli Karthik , Liopo Anton V. , McHugh Emily A. , Underwood Erica , Zhao Jing , Dash Pramod K. , Vo Anh T. T. , Malojirao Vikas H. , Hegde Muralidhar L. , Tour James M. , Derry Paul J. , Kent Thomas A.
Published: September 2024

Pro‐energetic effects of functionalized, oxidized carbon nanozymes (OCNs) are reported. OCNs, derived from harsh acid oxidation of single‐wall carbon nanotubes or activated charcoal are previously shown to possess multiple nanozymatic activities including mimicking superoxide dismutase and catalyzing the oxidation of reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) to NAD+. These actions are predicted to generate a glycolytic shift and enhance mitochondrial energetics under impaired conditions. Impaired mitochondrial energy metabolism is increasingly recognized as an important facet of traumatic brain injury (TBI) pathophysiology and decreases the efficiency of electron transport chain (ETC)‐coupled adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and NAD+ regeneration. In vitro, OCNs promote a pro‐aerobic shift in energy metabolism that persists through ETC inhibition and enhances glycolytic flux, glycolytic ATP production, and cellular generation of lactate, a crucial auxiliary substrate for energy metabolism. To address specific mechanisms of iron injury from hemorrhage, OCNs with the iron chelator, deferoxamine (DEF), covalently‐linked were synthesized. DEF‐linked OCNs induce a glycolytic shift in‐vitro and in‐vivo in tissue sections from a rat model of TBI complicated by hemorrhagic contusion. OCNs further reduced hemorrhage volumes 3 days following TBI. These results suggest OCNs are promising as pleiotropic mediators of cell and tissue resilience to injury.
Letrozole‐Based Near‐Infrared Dynamic Imaging Targeting Ductal‐Vascular RhoJ From Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasia to Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Cao Zhi , Hu Zhuang , Wang Yishu , Zhao Fengyun , Li Jingmin , Li Ruihan , Hu Weibin , Liu Bei , Tang Shaohui , Wang Ping , Li Fugui , Chen Zilin , Wang Lisheng , Ma Xiaodong
Published: September 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) relies heavily on neoangiogenesis for its progression, making early detection crucial. Here, LTZi‐MHI148 (Letrozole inhibitor bonding with MHI‐148 dye), a near‐infrared (NIR) fluorescent agent is developed, to target RhoJ (Ras Homolog Family Member J), a protein expressed in neonatal vasculature, for both imaging and therapy of early PDAC. This agent is synthesized by conjugating Letrozole with MHI‐148, exhibiting excellent NIR characteristics and photostability. In vitro studies showed that LTZi‐MHI148 selectively accumulated within pancreatic cancer cells through Organic Anion Transporting Polypeptide (OATP) transporters and bound to cytoplasmic RhoJ. In vivo, the probe effectively targeted neoangiogenesis and Pancreatic Intraepithelial Neoplasias (PanINs) in various PDAC models, including the orthotopic, ectopic, spontaneous, and tamoxifen‐induced tumors. Notably, LTZi‐MHI148 detected preneoplastic PanIN lesions with Overexpressed RhoJ and active neoangiogenesis in both spontaneous and tamoxifen‐induced PDAC murine models. Longitudinal imaging studies revealed that RhoJ‐targeted neoangiogenesis tracks lesion progression, highlighting LTZi‐MHI148's utility in monitoring disease progression. Furthermore, multiple LTZi‐MHI148 administrations attenuated PanINs to PDAC progression, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic intervention. These findings underscore the translational potential of LTZi‐MHI148 for the early detection and targeted therapy of PDAC, utilizing NIR‐I/II imaging to monitor RhoJ overexpression in precancerous ductal neoplasia associated with neoangiogenesis.
Hybrid Deposition Modeling Technology for Preparing Rocket‐Separation 3D‐Print Combination Tablet with Greater Compliance for the Treatment of Helicobacter Pylori Infection
Authors: Li Anran , Zhang Ke , Wang Zhijun , Liu Siyuan , Li Xiaofei , Ren Jianbing , Zhang Jianjun , Shi Yunyi , Gao Yuan , Qian Shuai , Wei Yuanfeng
Published: September 2024

Currently, standard quadruple therapy is the primary treatment for Helicobacter pylori infection; however, compliance is low due to its complicated dose regimen. 3D‐printed combination tablets offer a promising strategy to simplify dose regimens due to their flexible structure. However, it is difficult to print combination tablets with a single printing technique because of the different physicochemical properties of the drugs. In this study, a hybrid deposition modeling (HDM) 3D printer is developed for the first time, concentrating the advantages of fused deposition modeling technology and semi‐solid extrusion technology, to prepare “rocket‐separated” combination tablets containing four drugs with different release behaviors. In 0.1 m HCl medium (mimicking gastric environment), the interlayer of the tablet containing bismuth potassium citrate erodes within 5 min, then the top and bottom layers separate, with the top one floating up to the surface of the medium, starting to release metronidazole and doxycycline after 1.5 h, the omeprazole enteric bottom layer releases in PBS 6.8 medium (mimicking intestinal environment) within 2 h. Overall, this combination tablet is suitable for actual clinical needs and avoids the chance of missed or wrong dosing. Moreover, HDM technology opens the door for future integration of multiple technologies in 3D printing formulations.
Three in One: A Versatile p‐i‐n Heterojunction Diode Based on Quasi‐2D Perovskite as a Solar Cell, Red Light Emitting Device and Weak Light Photodetector
Authors: Qiu Mingxuan , Li Wanjun , Huang Xi , Liang Xiangfei , Shen Chao , Cai Wanzhu , Hou Lintao , Zhao Chuanxi , Zhao Zhijuan , Mai Wenjie
Published: September 2024

Quasi‐two‐dimensional (Q‐2D) Ruddlesden‐Popper (RP) perovskites are rapidly developed for photoelectric device applications due to their unique multiple quantum‐well structures and adjustable photoelectric properties. Here, a three‐in‐one multifunctional photoelectric device that integrates photovoltaic (PV), electroluminescence (EL), and photodetection performance based on Q‐2D perovskite, which has not yet been reported, is explored and realized. As a solar cell (SC) mode under standard air mass 1.5G illumination, the optimal device has a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 10.36%; as a light emitting diode (LED) mode under forward bias, the optimal device emits red light at 753 nm and achieves an EL external quantum efficiency (EQEEL) of 0.42%; as a photodetector (PD) mode under a pulsed laser (660 nm), the optimal device exhibits superior weak‐light detection, with a linear dynamic range (LDR) improvement as wide as 161.8 dB, a high detectivity (D*) of 7.88 × 1012 Jones, a fast rise/fall time of 19.1/35.2 µs and excellent stability. This work is of great significance to enrich the physical connotation and comprehensively improve the use efficiency of the multifunctional device.
Performance Boost by Dark Electro Treatment in MACl‐Added FAPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Pylnev Mikhail , Nishikubo Ryosuke , Ishiwari Fumitaka , Wakamiya Atsushi , Saeki Akinori
Published: September 2024

Halide anion migration in organic–inorganic metal halide perovskites significantly influences the power conversion efficiency (PCE) and hysteresis of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). These materials are sensitive to various external stimuli such as light, heat, and electrical bias, highlighting the need for novel post‐manufacturing treatment methods alongside a deeper understanding of their mechanisms. Here, a dark electro (DE) treatment is introduced that applies a negative‐positive‐negative bias to PSC under dark conditions, which is particularly effective for formamidinium (FA) lead iodide (FAPbI3) PSCs processed with a methylammonium chloride (MACl) additive. The DE treatment, followed by light soaking, results in an average PCE increase of 2.9 ± 1.8% (from an initial 18.2 ± 2.0% to 21.1 ± 0.8% after treatment) with a notable decrease in deviation. It is discovered that residual chloride anions from MACl play a critical role in the DE treatment. The migration of halide anions under a shaking electric bias is investigated using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectroscopy (TOF‐SIMS). This study elucidates the distribution and impact of residual chloride anions, providing insights into the mechanisms underlying the DE treatment.
Advancing Photocatalysis: Insights from 2D Materials and Operational Parameters for Organic Pollutants Removal
Authors: Balarabe Bachir Yaou , Atabaev Timur Sh.
Published: September 2024

Photocatalysis plays a crucial role in tackling environmental challenges by efficiently breaking down organic pollutants in water. This study highlights the significant contribution of 2D materials in advancing photocatalytic technology for sustainable environmental remediation. It explores various aspects of photocatalytic processes, including important performance metrics such as reaction rate, quantum yield, space yield, energy consumption, and figure of merit. The main focus is on 2D materials‐based structures, such as metal oxide supported on graphene and graphene oxides, MXene, or MoS2 (referred as 2D‐MO NPs), as well as more complex nanocomposite configurations (referred as 2D‐MO NCs). Furthermore, the research examines the complex interaction between compositional and operational factors that influence photocatalytic activity, as well as different photocatalytic mechanisms and active species. Finally, it addresses the current limitations of photocatalytic organic pollutants degradation for field applications and discusses the prospects of this technology.
Hybrid Nanoparticles Dual‐Loaded With Curcumin and Benzydamine Hydrochloride for the Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis: From Development to Biological Application In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Carvalho Gabriela C. , Domingues Maria Nolasco Viseu , Marena Gabriel Davi , Mäkilä Ermei , Li Jiachen , Geertsema‐Doornbusch Gésinda , de Andrade Cleverton Roberto , Stuart Marc C. A. , Shahbazi Mohammad‐Ali , Corrêa Ione , Peterson Brandon W. , Salonen Jarno , Florindo Helena F. , Bauab Taís Maria , Chorilli Marlus , Santos Hélder A.
Published: September 2024

Vulvovaginal candidiasis represents a public health challenge due to its reports of high incidence and recurrence. These are caused by host‐related factors like compromised immune system, or pathogen‐related factors, such as resistance to antifungal agents, making this medical problem desirable to develop new therapeutic options. In this context, natural origin substances like curcumin, are increasingly treatment alternatives. However, some curcumin properties limit its therapeutic application, such as insolubility in aqueous solvents, which leads to low bioavailability. Nevertheless, nanotechnology association with drugs of plant origin proves to be a promising alternative to overcome the reported drawbacks. Despite being caused by a fungus, patients suffer significantly from the inflammation resulting from this disease, thus this study aimed to develop a hybrid carrier nanoformulation by microfluidics loaded with two drugs, benzydamine hydrochloride (an anti‐inflammatory drug) and curcumin (an antifungal drug). Transmission electron cryomicroscopy combined with energy dispersive X‐ray analysis confirmed that the nanoparticle is properly developed. Through in vitro biological studies, it is possible to observe that, in addition to being safe, the encapsulation of both drugs in the nanocarrier drastically reduced their cytotoxicity. Finally, although the final nanoformulation does not show in vitro activity, the in vivo study indicated therapeutic potential.
Regulating the Magnetic Domain of Nickle for Enhanced CO2 Electrochemical Reduction Driven by External Magnetic Field
Authors: Zhu Zhaozhao , Tang Wu , Wang Junjie , Lin Yingxi , Li Zhao , Chen Haiyuan , Niu Xiaobin , Chen Jun Song , Wu Rui
Published: September 2024

Electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide (CO2RR) into valuable fuels and chemicals is a highly desirable approach for achieving carbon neutrality, but it faces substantial technical hurdles. Herein, a novel ferromagnetic Ni@NC electrocatalyst is reported, composed of nickel nanoparticles embedded within a nitrogen‐doped carbon matrix. The optimal Ni@NC catalyst displays a fourfold increase in current density at 140 versus 0 mT in H‐type cell and achieves nearly 100% CO Faradaic efficiency (FECO) across a wide potential range with minimal overpotential in flow cell. Quantum diamond atomic force microscopy (QDAFM) directly demonstrates the orderly magnetic moments of the Ni@NC catalyst under the external magnetic field. Further theoretical calculations reveal that the orderly magnetic moments induced by the external magnetic field facilitate the formation of Ni–O–Ni and reduce the energy barriers of COOH* intermediates. This study underscores the potential of applying magnetic field modulation to not only enhance the catalytic efficiencies but also extend this strategy to other catalytic systems.
Within‐field variation of crop yield loss from cover crops
Authors: Girz Andrei I. , Mattila Tuomas J.
Published: September 2024

The amount of high‐resolution agricultural data has increased rapidly in the current decade. Integration of satellite multispectral imagery, combine harvester yield monitoring data, and soil moisture mapping allows managing for within‐field variation and better interpreting on‐farm experimentation. In this study, we investigated the effect of cover crops on yield in Finland by integrating Sentinel‐2 satellite imagery (normalized difference vegetation index), topographic soil moisture indexes, and high‐resolution yield data. The experiment was run by three farmers over 4 years and serves as an example for low‐cost on‐farm experimentation. Our results confirmed earlier findings that undersown cover crops result in approximately 5% yield loss. We also found that the effect is highly variable across farms and within fields. The highest yield losses were found in areas of the field, which were wetter in the spring seeding time. The competition between crop and cover crop could be observed in the vegetation maps for autumn and early summer. Combining NDVI and soil moisture maps allows delineating field zones, which require extra management to reduce the risk of yield loss from cover crop resource competition. Evaluating the overall effect of cover crops on yield would require replication on more farms. The within‐field variation results and workflow investigated in this study can guide placement of sampling areas within those fields.
Auxin injury on cotton, I: Aerial reflectance data, crop injury, and yield
Authors: Denton Savana , Raper Tyson , Dodds Darrin , Main Chris , Duncan Lori , Mueller Thomas
Published: September 2024

Synthetic auxin herbicide movement onto sensitive cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) cultivars has impacted many US cotton hectares. The spatial scope and severity of auxin damage in‐season is typically estimated by an agronomist. The use of remote sensing technology has the potential to objectively quantify the spatial scope and severity of auxin damage. Experiments were conducted in 2019, 2020, and 2021 in Grand Junction, TN, to determine: (1) the effect of reflectance data collection timing; (2) the effect of auxin exposure timing; (3) the value of near infrared and red‐edge (RE) reflectance versus reflectance within the visible spectrum data; and (4) if/how visual injury relates to aerial reflectance data. Applications of 2,4‐D or dicamba were made to susceptible cotton cultivars at 1X, 1/4X, 1/16X, 1/64X, 1/256X, and 1/1024X rates at either matchhead square (MHS) or 2 weeks after first bloom (FB+2WK). Non‐treated controls were also included for each application timing. Aerial reflectance data were collected 7, 14, 21, and 28 days after application. Unsupervised classification of images into pixels with and without vegetation did not increase correlations between vegetation indices (VIs) and application rate. Although Vis, which generated the strongest correlations with application rate, visual injury, and relative lint yield, were generally RE based, similar correlations were also noted with visible spectrum VIs. Correlations were greater when auxin injury occurred at MHS than FB+2WK. Results suggest reflectance measured within the visible spectrum can quantify the scope and severity of auxin injury if the injury occurs early during the growing season.
The effect of allergen immunotherapy in patients with central compartment atopic disease post‐surgery
Authors: Meerwein Christian M. , Sacks Peta‐Lee , Ho Jacqueline , Choy Christine , Kalish Larry , Campbell Raewyn G , Sacks Ray R. , Harvey Richard J
Published: September 2024

Objective

To assess the effect of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) on patients with central compartment atopic disease (CCAD) and house dust mite (HDM) sensitization post‐surgery.

Methods

A retrospective cohort of surgically treated, HDM‐sensitized CRSwNP patients phenotyped as CCAD was assessed. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether they had AIT commenced as part of their surgical care. All AIT patients started immunotherapy prior to their surgery. The primary endpoint was reformation of middle turbinate (MT) edema 12 months postsurgery. Secondary endpoints were corticosteroid irrigation use (<4 times/week vs. ≥4 times/week, %) and the rhinologic domain of the 22‐item sino‐nasal outcome test (SNOT‐22). Demographic characteristics, concomitant asthma, smoking status, history of aspirin‐exacerbated respiratory disease, conjunctival symptoms, polysensitization, serum eosinophils (cell × 109/L), tissue eosinophilia (% > 100/HPF), and serum IgE (kU/L) were also recorded.

Results

Eighty‐six CCAD patients were assessed (41 ± 14 yrs, 64% female). AIT was applied in 37% (n = 32). Baseline features were similar apart from greater conjunctival symptoms (72 vs. 45%, p = 0.02) in the AIT group. At 12 months post‐surgery, the AIT group has less MT edema (% ≥ diffuse 15.6 vs. 52.9, p < 0.01). Patients on AIT also had less pharmacotherapy requirements at 12 months (% ≥ 4/week, 37.5 vs. 79.6%, p < 0.01). The rhinologic symptoms were similar (21.1 ± 17.1 vs. 20.1 ± 21.6, p = 0.83).

Conclusions

Surgery and pharmacotherapy are effective in managing CCAD, but the addition of AIT improved allergic phenomenon and allowed de‐escalation of topical therapy. Longer term studies are required to demonstrate further immunomodulation.
Patient‐derived organoid model of olfactory ensheathing cell tumor
Authors: Finlay John B. , Hachem Ralph Abi , Codd Patrick , Goldstein Bradley J.
Published: September 2024

Key points

We developed a culture model of a human olfactory ensheathing cell tumor.

Cultured organoids resemble normal ensheathing cells.

Assays suggest that this model provides a tool for studying the roles of these glial cells in the maintenance of the peripheral olfactory system.
Construction of Chiral Covalent Organic Frameworks Through a Linker Decomposition Chiral Induction Strategy for Circularly Polarized Light Detection
Authors: Tang Xihao , Zha Jiajia , Wu Xueying , Tong Jingyi , Gu Qianfeng , Zhang Kai , Zhang Yuwei , Zheng Shengrun , Fan Jun , Zhang Weiguang , Zhang Qichun , Tan Chaoliang , Cai Songliang
Published: September 2024

Exploring new strategies for construction of chiral covalent organic frameworks (COFs) is of paramount importance yet remains a challenge. Herein, we report the rational design and construction of chiral COFs through a linker decomposition chiral induction (LDCI) strategy. Three pairs of azine‐linked chiral COFs are successfully synthesized by the condensation reactions of C3‐symmetric 4,4′,4′′‐(1,3,5‐triazine‐2,4,6‐triyl)tribenzaldehyde (Tz) with flexible chiral dihydrazide linkers derived from malic acid, aspartic acid and tartaric acid, respectively. Remarkably, upon complete or partial decomposition from flexible chiral dihydrazides to hydrazine during COF synthesis, the homochirality of these COFs, originating from the single‐handedness conformation of propeller‐like Tz cores, is well preserved. Such a stereoselective chiral memory realized via the LDCI strategy is confirmed by time‐dependent powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR) and diffuse reflectance circular dichroism (DRCD). Moreover, the resultant azine‐linked chiral COFs are used as the active materials to fabricate photodetectors to directly distinguish circularly polarized light (CPL), showing impressive recognition performances on the identification of left‐handed circularly (LHC) and right‐handed circularly (RHC) polarized lights. Notably, the residual undecomposed flexible chiral linkers within the COFs are found to be conducive to improving the polarization discrimination ratio. This work highlights LDCI as a new and effective strategy for constructing homochiral COFs with promising future in chiral optical application.
A Photo‐Switchable Peptide Fibril Esterase
Authors: Samanta Mousumi , Saad Noy , Wu Dinghao , Crone Niek S. A. , Abramov‐Harpaz Karina , Regev Clil , Cohen‐Luria Rivka , Boyle Aimee L. , Miller Yifat , Kros Alexander , Ashkenasy Gonen
Published: September 2024

Recent attempts to mimic enzyme catalysis using simple, short peptides have been successful in enhancing various reactions, but the on‐demand, temporal or spatial regulation of such processes by external triggers remains a great challenge. Light irradiation is an ideal trigger for regulating molecular functionality, since it can be precisely manipulated in time and space, and because most reaction mediums do not react to light. We herein report the selection of a photo‐switchable amphiphilic peptide catalyst from a small library of isomeric peptides, each containing an azobenzene‐based light responsive group and a catalytic histidine residue. In its native fibrillar form, the selected peptide is efficiently and enantio‐selectively active for ester hydrolysis, but after irradiation by UV light inducing trans‐to‐cis azobenzene isomerization, the fibrils disassemble to amorphous aggregates that are much less catalytically active. Significantly, this esterase‐like activity can be manipulated multiple times, as the fibrillar peptide assembly is reversibly reduced and restored upon alternate irradiation by UV and visible light, respectively. We propose that this research may shine light on the origin of complex functions in early chemical evolution. Furthermore, it paves the way to regulate additional functions for peptide nanotechnology, such as replication, charge transfer, and delivery.