bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ovarian Cancer Isn’t Just a White Woman’s Disease
Authors: Smith Anna Jo Bodurtha , Howell Elizabeth A. , Ko Emily M.
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint highlights the need for recognition that ovarian cancer affects women from racial and ethnic minority groups worldwide and that the rates of ovarian cancer are increasing in those populations while decreasing among White women.
Elastic Janus Microarray Film Strain Sensors with Heterogeneous Modulus and Conductivity for Healthcare and Braille Identification
Authors: Shao He‐Qing , Wei Kai‐Dong , Gong Tao , Jia Jin , Tang Chun‐Yan , Zha Xiang‐Jun , Ke Kai , Bao Rui‐Ying , Zhang Kai , Wang Yu , Yang Wei
Published: April 2024

Most stretchable film strain sensors generally present nonlinear electrical responses to applied strain, leading to an inaccurate acquisition of sophisticated signals, difficult signal processing, and zero‐calibration, which hampers practical applications severely. Here, a Janus hetero‐structured microarray film sensor is developed by in‐situ growth of silver nanoparticles on the surface of micro‐patterned elastomer films fabricated via low‐temperature imprinting followed by scraping‐induced particle trapping. Heterogeneous property designs in both modulus and electrical conductivity via introducing polymer microarrays enable modulating the electron transport manner in the conductive layer of elastic Janus films upon stretching, allowing to tune signal linearity effectively. Therefore, such a hetero‐structured film sensor shows good signal linearity (fluctuation of gauge factor [GF] below ±0.02) and relatively high sensitivity (GF > 10) within 55% strain, a detection limit of 0.2% strain, and a response/recovery time of 16.3/46.9 ms, respectively. Correspondingly, it enables monitoring human respiration and body motion with higher resolution compared with the nonlinear one, meanwhile, it is capable of detecting tiny pressure to discriminate braille alphabets via touch identification. Overall, it unveils a simple strategy to fabricate film strain sensors for high‐resolution healthcare and body motion monitoring, as well as electronic skins toward tactile sensing and touch identification.
Large‐Area Flexible Carbon Nanofilms with Synergistically Enhanced Transmittance and Conductivity Prepared by Reorganizing Single‐Walled Carbon Nanotube Networks
Authors: Yue Ying , Zhang Di , Wang Pengyu , Xia Xiaogang , Wu Xin , Zhang Yuejuan , Mei Jie , Li Shaoqing , Li Mingming , Wang Yanchun , Zhang Xiao , Wei Xiaojun , Liu Huaping , Zhou Weiya
Published: April 2024

Large‐area flexible transparent conductive films (TCFs) are highly desired for future electronic devices. Nanocarbon TCFs are one of the most promising candidates, but some of their properties are mutually restricted. Here, a novel carbon nanotube network reorganization (CNNR) strategy, that is, the facet‐driven CNNR (FD‐CNNR) technique, is presented to overcome this intractable contradiction. The FD‐CNNR technique introduces an interaction between single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWNT) and Cu─‐O. Based on the unique FD‐CNNR mechanism, large‐area flexible reorganized carbon nanofilms (RNC‐TCFs) are designed and fabricated with A3‐size and even meter‐length, including reorganized SWNT (RSWNT) films and graphene and RSWNT (G‐RSWNT) hybrid films. Synergistic improvement in strength, transmittance, and conductivity of flexible RNC‐TCFs is achieved. The G‐RSWNT TCF shows sheet resistance as low as 69 Ω sq−1 at 86% transmittance, FOM value of 35, and Young's modulus of ≈45 MPa. The high strength enables RNC‐TCFs to be freestanding on water and easily transferred to any target substrate without contamination. A4‐size flexible smart window is fabricated, which manifests controllable dimming and fog removal. The FD‐CNNR technique can be extended to large‐area or even large‐scale fabrication of TCFs and can provide new insights into the design of TCFs and other functional films.
Molten Guest‐Mediated Metal–Organic Frameworks Featuring Multi‐Modal Supramolecular Interaction Sites for Flame‐Retardant Superionic Conductor in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Xie Yufeng , Xu Liangliang , Tong Yan , Ouyang Yuan , Zeng Qinghan , Li Dixiong , Xiao Yingbo , Yu Siting , Liu Xiaolong , Zheng Cheng , Zhang Qi , Huang Shaoming
Published: April 2024

The development of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) with outstanding comprehensive performance is currently a critical challenge for achieving high energy density and safer solid‐state batteries (SSBs). In this study, a strategy of nano‐confined in situ solidification is proposed to create a novel category of molten guest‐mediated metal–organic frameworks, named MGM–MOFs. By embedding the newly developed molten crystalline organic electrolyte (ML20) into the nanocages of anionic MOF–OH, MGM–MOF–OH, characterized by multi‐modal supramolecular interaction sites and continuous negative electrostatic environments within nano‐channels, is achieved. These nanochannels promote ion transport through the successive hopping of Li+ between neighbored negative electrostatic environments and suppress anion movement through the chemical constraint of the hydroxyl‐functionalized pore wall. This results in remarkable Li+ conductivity of 7.1 × 10−4 S cm−1 and high Li+ transference number of 0.81. Leveraging these advantages, the SSBs assembled with MGM–MOF–OH exhibit impressive cycle stability and a high specific energy density of 410.5 Wh kganode + cathode + electrolyte−1 under constrained conditions and various working temperatures. Unlike flammable traditional MOFs, MGM–MOF–OH demonstrates high robustness under various harsh conditions, including ignition, high voltage, and extended to humidity.
N‐Heterocyclic Olefin‐Phosphines Based Cationic Ruthenium Complexes as Pre‐Catalysts for Dual C−H Bond Functionalizations
Authors: Kumar Sahoo Amiya , Das Bhagyashree , Jyoti Panda Subhra , Shekhar Purohit Chandra , Doddi Adinarayana
Published: April 2024

Two N‐heterocyclic olefin‐phosphines (NHOP), and the corresponding ruthenium complexes were synthesized and structurally characterized. One of the cationic complexes [(BzIM)(NHOP)Ru(p‐cymene)Cl2]I was employed as a catalyst in N‐benzylbenzamides/alkyne coupling reactions. With this catalytic protocol a variety of substituted isoquinolones were synthesized through ortho‐selective double C−H bond functionalization involving oxidative annulation followed by olefination reactions. All these products were achieved in one‐pot manner without the use of additives.
Rapid Isolation and Detection of Breast Cancer Circulating Tumor Cells Using Microfluidic Sequential Trapping Array
Authors: Hassanzadeh‐Barforoushi Amin , Tsao Simon Chang‐Hao , Nadalini Audrey , Inglis David W. , Wang Yuling
Published: April 2024

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have garnered special attention as promising cancer biomarkers. Phenotypic changes of CTCs reveal invaluable information for oncologists in disease prognosis and adjusting their treatment options. Microfluidic technology has emerged as a promising tool for CTC isolation; however, two major hurdles remain to be solved in employing them in CTC analysis. First, a rapid CTC isolation scheme is needed to allow immediate use of patient samples for point‐of‐care treatment monitoring. Second, multiplexed and streamlined CTC imaging is needed to facilitate CTC detection. Here, a microfluidic CTC sequential trapping array (STA) is proposed which addresses these hurdles enabling pipette‐based CTC isolation and simultaneous profiling of multiple CTC protein expressions. The STA device isolates CTCs based on their size difference from blood cells and increases sample processing throughput through its parallel design configuration. It successfully isolates CTC from a depleted peripheral blood mononuclear cells sample of breast cancer patients with a high recovery rate of 80% and discriminates the number and types of CTCs in breast cancer based on their disease stage. These findings will open a new avenue in clinical translation of CTC profiling technologies. It will be an example for future translational developments in CTC‐based cancer management.
A rat model of adenoid hypertrophy constructed by using ovalbumin and lipopolysaccharides to induce allergy, chronic inflammation, and chronic intermittent hypoxia
Authors: Liu Anqi , Zhang Yixing , Lin Yan , Li Xuejun , Wang Shuming , Pu Wenyan , Liu Xiuxiu , Jiang Zhiyan , Xiao Zhen
Published: April 2024

Background

Adenoid hypertrophy (AH) is a common pediatric disease that significantly impacts the growth and quality of life of children. However, there is no replicable and valid model for AH.

Methods

An AH rat model was developed via comprehensive allergic sensitization, chronic inflammation induction, and chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH). The modeling process involved three steps: female Sprague–Dawley rats (aged 4–5 weeks) were used for modeling. Allergen sensitization was induced via intraperitoneal administration and intranasal provocation using ovalbumin (OVA); chronic nasal inflammation was induced through intranasal lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration for sustained nasal irritation; CIH akin to obstructive sleep apnea/hypopnea syndrome was induced using an animal hypoxia chamber. Postmodel establishment, behaviors, and histological changes in nasopharynx‐associated lymphoid tissue (NALT) and nasal mucosa were assessed. Arterial blood gas analysis and quantification of serum and tissue levels of (interleukin) IL‐4 and IL‐13, OVA‐specific immunoglobulin E (sIgE), eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), tumor necrosis factor (TNF‐α), IL‐17, and transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β were conducted for assessment. The treatment group received a combination of mometasone furoate and montelukast sodium for a week and then was evaluated.

Results

Rats exhibited notable nasal symptoms and hypoxia after modeling. Histopathological analysis revealed NALT follicle hypertrophy and nasal mucosa inflammatory cell infiltration. Elevated IL‐4, IL‐13, IL‐17, OVA‐sIgE, ECP, and TNF‐α levels and reduced TGF‐β levels were observed in the serum and tissue of model‐group rats. After a week of treatment, the treatment group exhibited symptom and inflammatory factor improvement.

Conclusion

The model effectively simulates AH symptoms and pathological changes. But it should be further validated for genetic, immunological, and hormonal backgrounds in the currently used and other strains and species.
PyrAt‐Verbindungen: Modulare organische Salze mit großen Stokes‐Verschiebungen für die Fluoreszenzmikroskopie
Authors: Saridakis Iakovos , Riomet Margaux , Belleza Oliver J. V. , Coussanes Guilhem , Singer Nadja K. , Kastner Nina , Xiao Yi , Smith Elliot , Tona Veronica , de la Torre Aurélien , Lopes Eric F. , Sánchez‐Murcia Pedro A. , González Leticia , Sitte Harald H. , Maulide Nuno
Published: April 2024

Der Einsatz kleiner fluoreszierender Moleküle spielt in der Medizin und Arzneimittelentwicklung eine immer größere Rolle. Mit diesem Beitrag ergänzen wir das Portfolio leistungsstarker Fluorophore durch die zufällige Entdeckung und Entwicklung einer neuen Klasse mit einem Imidazo[1,2‐a]pyridiniumtriflat‐Kern, die wir „PyrAt‐Verbindungen“ nennen. Diese Fluorophore werden in einem einzigen Schritt aus leicht verfügbaren Materialien synthetisiert (>60 Beispiele) und zeigen Stokes‐Verschiebungen bis zu 240 nm, während sie gleichzeitig NIR−I‐Emissionen bei λmax bis zu 720 nm erreichen. Computergestützte Studien ermöglichen die Entwicklung einer Plattform für die Vorhersage von λmax und λEm. Darüber hinaus demonstrieren wir die Kompatibilität dieser neuartigen Fluorophore mit der Lebendzellbildgebung in HEK293‐Zellen, was darauf hindeutet, dass sie potente intrazelluläre Marker sind.
Formkomplementäre Multikomponenten Assemblierung von Niedrigsymmetrischen Co(III)Salphen Koordinationskäfigen
Authors: Zhang Bo , Lee Haeri , Holstein Julian J. , Clever Guido H.
Published: April 2024

Während die metallvermittelte Selbstassemblierung eine beliebte Methode zur Synthese definierter Nanoobjekte ist, wird die Literatur von hochsymmetrischen Strukturen, aufgebaut aus jeweils einer Art von Liganden, dominiert. Die kontrollierte Integration einer Reihe verschiedener Liganden erfordert ausgeklügelte Ansätze, um eine narzisstische Trennung oder die Bildung statistischer Mischungen zu vermeiden. Hier zeigen wir, wie die Kombination von drei strukturleitenden Effekten (metallvermittelte Makrozyklisierung, zusätzliches Anbringen von Brückenliganden und Formkomplementarität) auf der Grundlage von Co(III)salphen‐Metallzentren die rationale Synthese von laternenförmigen Käfigen mit bis zu vier differenzierbaren Brücken ermöglicht. Drei neue heteroleptische Koordinationskäfige, basierend auf zweikernigen Co(III)salphen‐Makrozyklen, wurden in einer Eintopfreaktion synthetisiert und vollständig charakterisiert, einschließlich Einkristall‐Röntgenstrukturanalysen. Einer der Käfige gruppiert zwei gleiche Liganden, ein anderer zwei verschiedene Liganden um einen symmetrischen Co2‐Bis‐Salphen‐Ring. In der komplexesten Struktur ist dieser Ring unsymmetrisch, so dass alle vier Brücken zwischen den beiden Metallzentren unterscheidbar sind. Während sich heteroleptische Assemblies mit Pd(II)‐Zentren als dynamisch und vorteilhaft für Käfig‐zu‐Käfig‐Umwandlungen und adaptive Systeme erwiesen haben, werden die hier vorgestellten Käfige auf der Grundlage der kinetisch stabileren Co(III)‐Salphen Einheiten für Anwendungen, die eine erhöhte strukturelle und chemische Stabilität erfordern, von Vorteil sein, z.B. in der enzymähnlichen Katalyse und in molekularen Maschinen.
Shape‐Complementary Multicomponent Assembly of Low‐Symmetry Co(III)Salphen‐Based Coordination Cages
Authors: Zhang Bo , Lee Haeri , Holstein Julian J. , Clever Guido H.
Published: April 2024

While metal‐mediated self‐assembly is a popular technique to construct discrete nanosized objects, highly symmetric structures, built from one type of ligand at a time, are dominating reported systems. The tailored integration of a set of different ligands requires sophisticated approaches to avoid narcissistic separation or formation of statistical mixtures. Here, we demonstrate how the combination of three structure‐guiding effects (metal‐templated macrocyclization, additional bridging ligands and shape‐complementarity) based on Co(III)salphen metal nodes allows for a rational and high‐yielding synthesis of structurally complex, lantern‐shaped cages with up to four differentiable bridges. Three new heteroleptic coordination cages based on dinuclear Co(III)salphen macrocycles were synthesized in a one‐pot reaction approach and fully characterized, including single crystal X‐ray analyses. One cage groups two of the same ligands, another two different ligands around a symmetric Co2‐bis‐salphen ring. In the most complex structure, this ring is unsymmetric, rendering all four connections between the two metal centers distinguishable. While heteroleptic assembly around Pd(II) nodes has been shown to be dynamic, beneficial for cage‐to‐cage transformations, assembly cascades and adaptive systems, the herein introduced cages based on kinetically more inert Co(III)salphen will be advantageous for applications in enzyme‐like catalysis and molecular machinery that require enhanced structural and chemical stability.
CuMOF@Faujasite nanocomposite as a novel catalyst for hydrogen production
Authors: Said Mohamed I. , Dardir Fatma M. , Gabr Rabei M. , Ahmed Ezzat A. , Soliman Mamdouh F. , Abukhadra Mostafa R.
Published: April 2024

Energy production is one of the most crucial issues presently attracting global attention. In this work, a CuMOF@Faujasite nanocomposite was synthesized and utilized as a novel efficient catalyst for hydrogen production. The produced composite was first characterized using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier‐ transform infrared (FT‐IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and differential scanning calorimetry. Surface properties were analyzed via nitrogen adsorption–desorption isotherms. All characterization results revealed the formation of a pure and well‐defined crystalline phase, with a high specific surface area (SBET) of 286 m2/g (SBET of Faujasite is 35 m2/g). Moreover, the morphology and compositional analysis of the nanocomposite were assured through the scanning (SEM) and transmission (TEM) electron microscope and X‐ray photospectroscopy (XPS). SEM and TEM images revealed sponge‐like spheres that are related to Faujasite besides small spherical particles related to CuBDC MOF. XPS analysis revealed a low content of CuMOF in the nanocomposite. The catalytic activity of the nanocomposite was tested for the dehydrogenation of NaBH4. The impact of NaBH4 concentration, weight of the catalyst, and the reaction temperature on NaBH4 hydrolysis was investigated. A hydrogen generation rate (HGR) of 484 mLmin−1 g−1 at 30 °C was achieved using 50 mg of the catalyst and 0.05 mol/l of NaBH4 owing to the high specific area and the selective active sites for such hydrolytic reaction. The kinetic analysis of the activity data indicates the first‐order behavior at low concentrations of NaBH4. Furthermore, at concentrations ≥0.065 mol L−1, zero‐order kinetics was predominant. The time needed for completion of the hydrolysis reaction was found to be decreased (~20 min) by increasing the catalyst mass as well as NaBH4 concentration or even by elevating the reaction temperature (~4 min at 60 °C). The activation energy was estimated; it was found to be 70.5 KJ mol−1. Ultimately, our catalyst showed a reasonable rate of hydrogen production, as compared to others reported earlier.
Battle of the sections: Student outcomes and course feedback support combined prosection and dissection laboratory formats to maximize student success
Authors: Coker Charles , Rogers Robert S. , Freed Blair , Steele Robert , Kinde Monica N. , Danilova Galina , Kruse Schoen W. , Dennis Jennifer F.
Published: April 2024

Gross anatomy laboratories frequently utilize dissection or prosection formats within medical curricula. Practical examination scores are consistent across the formats, yet these examinations assessed larger anatomical structures. In contrast, a single report noted improved scores when prosection was used in the hand and foot regions, areas that are more difficult to dissect. The incorporation of prosected donors within “Head and Neck” laboratories provided an opportunity to further characterize the impact of prosection in a structurally complex area. Retrospective analysis of 21 Head and Neck practical examination questions was completed to compare scores among cohorts that utilized dissection exclusively or incorporated prosection. Mean scores of practical examination questions were significantly higher in the prosection cohort (84.27% ± 12.69) as compared with the dissection cohort (75.59% ± 12.27) (p < 0.001). Of the 12 questions that performed better in the prosection cohort (88.42% ± 8.21), 10 items mapped to deeper anatomical regions. By comparison, eight of nine questions in the dissection cohort outperformed (88.44% ± 3.34) the prosection cohort (71.74% ± 18.11), and mapped to anatomically superficial regions. Despite the mean score increase with positional location of the questions, this effect was not statically significant across cohorts (p = 1.000), suggesting that structure accessibility in anatomically complex regions impacts performance. Student feedback cited structure preservation (71.5%) and time savings (55.8%) as advantages to prosection; however, dissection was the perceived superior and preferred laboratory format (88.6%). These data support combined prosection and dissection formats for improving student recognition of deeply positioned structures and maximizing student success.
Recent OCR letter gives tips for responding to complaints about faculty
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: April 2024

When students file discrimination complaints against faculty members, rather than other students, such allegations can sometimes trigger multiple investigations/compliance reviews.
Avoid the ED's hefty fines for Clery Act violations
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: April 2024

CLEARWATER BEACH, FLORIDA — The U.S. Department of Education's record‐breaking $14 million fine in March against Liberty University for Clery Act violations certainly has shock factor. And it should be enough to bring everyone from the most lax to even the most diligent institutional compliance professionals out of their compliance complacency and into a renewed focus on the accuracy of their annual campus safety reports.
Promoting social inclusion for adult communities: The moderating role of leisure constraints on life satisfaction in five European countries
Authors: Koçak Funda , Gürbüz Bülent
Published: April 2024

Although leisure constraints that individuals have to cope with can negatively affect their social inclusion and satisfaction with life, little research has addressed the link between these variables. Therefore, the current paper examined the moderator role of leisure constraints on the relationship between satisfaction with life and leisure constraints among adults living in five different European countries. The respondents were 1,382 women and 877 men adults. The findings of analysis revealed that all factors used in the study accounted for 15% of the variance in satisfaction with life and social inclusion had a significant and positive impact on satisfaction with life. As a result, it can be said that leisure constraints had a moderating effect on the relationship between satisfaction with life and social inclusion. The present research study recommends that social inclusion should be encouraged through decreasing to leisure constraints to increase the life satisfaction.
Modeling Planar Electrodes and Zero‐Gap Membrane Electrode Assemblies for CO2 Electrolysis
Authors: Ehlinger Victoria M. , Lee Dong Un , Lin Tiras Y. , Duoss Eric B. , Baker Sarah E. , Jaramillo Thomas F. , Hahn Christopher
Published: April 2024

Invited for this issue's Front Cover are researchers from the Carbon Initiative at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory and the SUNCAT Center at Stanford University. The front cover shows a cross‐section of the cathode of a membrane electrode assembly for CO2 electrolysis looking down the feed channel. CO2 molecules flow down the channel and diffuse up through the gas diffusion layer to the silver catalyst, where CO2 reacts to form CO, while also competing against hydrogen reduction from water. Some of the CO2 molecules react to form bicarbonate and carbonate ions, which can diffuse across the membrane, where they react at the anode to form CO2 again. The top of the image shows CO2 that has crossed over through the membrane into the anolyte. Cover design by Brendan Thompson. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300566.
Interface Modifications of Lithium Metal Anode for Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Petla Ramesh Kumar , Lindsey Ian , Li Jianlin , Meng Xiangbo
Published: April 2024

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) enable much higher energy density than lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and thus hold great promise for future transportation electrification. However, the adoption of lithium metal (Li) as an anode poses serious concerns about cell safety and performance, which has been hindering LMBs from commercialization. To this end, extensive effort has been invested in understanding the underlying mechanisms theoretically and experimentally and developing technical solutions. In this review, we devote to providing a comprehensive review of the challenges, characterizations, and interfacial engineering of Li anodes in both liquid and solid LMBs. We expect that this work will stimulate new efforts and help peer researchers find new solutions for the commercialization of LMBs.
Plant growth–defense trade‐offs are general across interactions with fungal, insect, and mammalian consumers
Authors: Zaret Max , Kinkel Linda , Borer Elizabeth T. , Seabloom Eric W.
Published: April 2024

Plants face trade‐offs between allocating resources to growth, while also defending against herbivores or pathogens. Species differences along defense trade‐off axes may promote coexistence and maintain diversity. However, few studies of plant communities have simultaneously compared defense trade‐offs against an array of herbivores and pathogens for which defense investment may differ, and even fewer have been conducted in the complex natural communities in which these interactions unfold. We tested predictions about the role of defense trade‐offs with competition and growth in diversity maintenance by tracking plant species abundance in a field experiment that removed individual consumer groups (mammals, arthropods, fungi) and added nutrients. Consistent with a growth–defense trade‐off, plant species that increased in mass in response to nutrient addition also increased when consumers were removed. This growth–defense trade‐off occurred for all consumer groups studied. Nutrient addition reduced plant species richness, which is consistent with trade‐off theory. Removing foliar fungi increased plant diversity via increased species evenness, whereas removal of other consumer groups had little effect on diversity, counter to expectations. Thus, while growth–defense trade‐offs are general across consumer groups, this trade‐off observed in wild plant communities does not necessarily support plant diversity maintenance.
YF17D‐based vaccines – standing on the shoulders of a giant
Authors: Sanchez‐Felipe Lorena , Alpizar Yeranddy A. , Ma Ji , Coelmont Lotte , Dallmeier Kai
Published: April 2024

Live‐attenuated yellow fever vaccine (YF17D) was developed in the 1930s as the first ever empirically derived human vaccine. Ninety years later, it is still a benchmark for vaccines made today. YF17D triggers a particularly broad and polyfunctional response engaging multiple arms of innate, humoral and cellular immunity. This unique immunogenicity translates into an extraordinary vaccine efficacy and outstanding longevity of protection, possibly by single‐dose immunization. More recently, progress in molecular virology and synthetic biology allowed engineering of YF17D as a powerful vector and promising platform for the development of novel recombinant live vaccines, including two licensed vaccines against Japanese encephalitis and dengue, even in paediatric use. Likewise, numerous chimeric and transgenic preclinical candidates have been described. These include prophylactic vaccines against emerging viral infections (e.g. Lassa, Zika and SARS‐CoV‐2) and parasitic diseases (e.g. malaria), as well as therapeutic applications targeting persistent infections (e.g. HIV and chronic hepatitis), and cancer. Efforts to overcome historical safety concerns and manufacturing challenges are ongoing and pave the way for wider use of YF17D‐based vaccines. In this review, we summarize recent insights regarding YF17D as vaccine platform, and how YF17D‐based vaccines may complement as well as differentiate from other emerging modalities in response to unmet medical needs and for pandemic preparedness.
Scalable Synthesis of Cinnamylamines Via the Heck Reaction: Application in the Synthesis of Abamine, Naftifine and Reboxetine
Authors: Moschona Fotini , Tsitopoulou Maria , Efstratiou Margarita , Koutiva Maria , Rassias Gerasimos
Published: April 2024

Following an extensive screening of reaction parameters such as the nature and amount of bases, Pd pre‐catalysts, ligands, additives, solvents and temperature range, we succeeded in developing a Heck reaction using N‐Boc‐allylamine and commercially available aryl bromides, capable of delivering a wide range of Boc‐protected trans‐cinnamylamines with 75–85 % regio‐ and stereoselectivity over other isomers. Optimisation of the Boc‐deprotection step and its work‐up procedure allowed for all minor isomers and impurities to be purged thus isolating pure trans‐cinnamylamines typically in 55–65 % yield without need for chromatography. We have successfully performed this chemistry in up to 5 g scale and demonstrated its usefulness by applying it to the synthesis of abamine, naftifine hydrochloride and a formal synthesis reboxetine mesylate.
The therapeutic effect of GAS6 in remyelination is dependent upon Tyro3
Authors: Asadian Negar , Aprico Andrea , Chen Moore , Yuen Daniel , Johnston Angus P. R. , Kilpatrick Trevor J. , Binder Michele D.
Published: April 2024

Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by demyelination, axonal damage and, for the majority of people, a decline in neurological function in the long‐term. Remyelination could assist in the protection of axons and their functional recovery, but such therapies are not, as yet, available. The TAM (Tyro3, Axl, and MERTK) receptor ligand GAS6 potentiates myelination in vitro and promotes recovery in pre‐clinical models of MS. However, it has remained unclear which TAM receptor is responsible for transducing this effect and whether post‐translational modification of GAS6 is required. In this study, we show that the promotion of myelination requires post‐translational modification of the GLA domain of GAS6 via vitamin K‐dependent γ‐carboxylation. We also confirmed that the intracerebroventricular provision of GAS6 for 2 weeks to demyelinated wild‐type (WT) mice challenged with cuprizone increased the density of myelinated axons in the corpus callosum by over 2‐fold compared with vehicle control. Conversely, the provision of GAS6 to Tyro3 KO mice did not significantly improve the density of myelinated axons. The improvement in remyelination following the provision of GAS6 to WT mice was also accompanied by an increased density of CC1+ve mature oligodendrocytes compared with vehicle control, whereas this improvement was not observed in the absence of Tyro3. This effect occurs independent of any influence on microglial activation. This work therefore establishes that the remyelinative activity of GAS6 is dependent on Tyro3 and includes potentiation of oligodendrocyte numbers.
Hydrogeochemical processes as a conditioner of freshwater lenses associated with coastal deposits
Authors: Julieta Galliari , Álvarez María del Pilar , Carolina Tanjal , Guido Borzi , Eleonora Carol
Published: April 2024

The aim of this work was to study the processes and factors conditioning the hydrochemistry of freshwater lenses associated with Holocene coastal deposits in an area of the Argentinean Atlantic coast. For this purpose, geomorphological units were mapped and a shallow groundwater monitoring network was established, including pre‐existing boreholes and shallow exploration wells. During the construction of the shallow exploration wells, sediment samples were extracted to determine the texture and mineralogical characteristics. Four samplings were carried out to measure in situ physicochemical parameters and to determine majority ions in the water. The chemical data were analysed considering the associated geomorphology, lithology, water balance and hydrodynamics. The geomorphological and lithological characteristics are the combined factors that favour the preferential rainwater recharge processes. Geoforms with greater topography and extension (continental and coastal dunes) tend to store freshwater lenses, while those with lower topography and little areal extension (sand sheets and beach ridges) have very thin lenses and tend to become salinized. Climate and local water balance are factor that determines that groundwater recharge occurs preferentially in winter. This causes increases in groundwater levels and a decrease in the groundwater EC. On the other hand, mineralogy is a factor that conditions the geochemical processes associated with the water–sediment interaction. Within the main geochemical processes, the dissolution and/or mineral weathering, the dissolution of CO2(g)and ion exchange determine the presence of different hydrochemical facies, where Ca‐HCO3facies dominates in elevated geoforms, while Na‐Cl in lower ones. The results obtained in this work have provided an understanding of the factors and processes that condition groundwater chemistry in coastal deposits, being of vital importance for the management of water resources.
A sustainable glycolipid hydrotrope‐solubilizer for cleansers and detergents
Authors: Chirac Marie‐Françoise , Cambos Sophie , Guilbot Jérôme , Nawrocki Corinne , Marchand Régis , Roso Alicia
Published: April 2024

Alkyl polyglycosides (APGs), based on renewable glucose and fatty alcohols, are recognized for their performance and biodegradability. Hydrotropic/solubilizing effect properties have already been identified on short‐chain variants such as hexyl and ethylhexyl, but these ingredients were not fully bio‐based. This study investigated the hydrotropic/solubilizing properties of eco‐designed 100% bio‐based heptyl glucoside, under various conditions, compared to industrial and personal care benchmarks and other short chain APGs. Foaming power was firstly evaluated at different temperatures with two static methods. Hydrotropic performance was assessed with a commonly used surfactant in the presence of high electrolyte, acid and alkali concentrations. Further trials were done using ethoxylated rapeseed oil as an oil lubricant model in electrolyte‐charged aqueous solution. The solubilizing effect of hydrophobic additives such as fragrances, essential oils and vitamin E was quantified. Finally, effects on formulation preservation were screened with two natural personal care preservatives. Heptyl glucoside was found to be an effective and versatile hydrotrope for industrial applications, with additional intrinsic lubrication properties. It was also revealed as an efficient solubilizer for personal care products with the additional benefit of reducing the preservative dosage required in natural formulations. Its unusual non‐foaming nature, while not disrupting the foaming capacity of surfactants, makes it suitable for all types of cleansers. The calculated carbon footprint has a low value, making heptyl glucoside a valuable ingredient combining both performance and low environmental impact.
Existence of normalized solutions for fractional Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson equations with general nonlinearities
Authors: Wang Li , Tang Liqin , Wang Jun , Wang Jixiu
Published: April 2024

This paper considers the following fractional Kirchhoff–Schrödinger–Poisson equation:

where
. For the case of
with
, the nonlinear term
satisfies more general conditions, we obtain the existence of normalized solutions for the above system by using Pohozaev manifold and variational method.
Allosteric modulation of fluorescence revealed by hydrogen bond dynamics in a genetically encoded maltose biosensor
Authors: Berksoz Melike , Atilgan Canan
Published: April 2024

Genetically encoded fluorescent biosensors (GEFBs) proved to be reliable tracers for many metabolites and cellular processes. In the simplest case, a fluorescent protein (FP) is genetically fused to a sensing protein which undergoes a conformational change upon ligand binding. This drives a rearrangement in the chromophore environment and changes the spectral properties of the FP. Structural determinants of successful biosensors are revealed only in hindsight when the crystal structures of both ligand‐bound and ligand‐free forms are available. This makes the development of new biosensors for desired analytes a long trial‐and‐error process. In the current study, we conducted μs‐long all atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of a maltose biosensor in both the apo (dark) and holo (bright) forms. We performed detailed hydrogen bond occupancy analyses to shed light on the mechanism of ligand induced conformational change in the sensor protein and its allosteric effect on the chromophore environment. We find that two strong indicators for distinguishing bright and dark states of biosensors are due to substantial changes in hydrogen bond dynamics in the system and solvent accessibility of the chromophore.
Maximal Quantified Precondition Synthesis for Linear Array Loops
Authors: Sumanth Prabhu S , Fedyukovich Grigory , D’Souza Deepak
Published: April 2024

Precondition inference is an important problem with many applications in verification and testing. Finding preconditions can be tricky as programs often have loops and arrays, which necessitates finding quantified inductive invariants. However, existing techniques have limitations in finding such invariants, especially when preconditions are missing. Further, maximal (or weakest) preconditions are often required to maximize the usefulness of preconditions. So the inferred inductive invariants have to be adequately weak. To address these challenges, we present an approach for maximal quantified precondition inference using aninfer-check-weakenframework. Preconditions and inductive invariants are inferred by a novel technique calledrange abduction, and then checked for maximality and weakened if required. Range abduction attempts to propagate the given quantified postcondition backwards and then strengthen or weaken it as needed to establish inductiveness. Weakening is done in a syntax-guided fashion. Our evaluation performed on a set of public benchmarks demonstrates that the technique significantly outperforms existing techniques in finding maximal preconditions and inductive invariants.
Education for Future Skills Development: Cognitive, Collaborative and Ethical Skills
Authors: Păunescu Carmen , McDonnell-Naughton Mary
Published: April 2024

This chapter focuses on the cognitive, collaborative, and ethical skills that the future higher education student will need to acquire to meet the skills wanted for the future. It explores learning methods that may be of interest in this field. The encouragement of reflective practice will encompass the competencies that will help to make sense of new concepts and policies underpinning good critical thinking. This will lend itself to the student gaining a competency level to drive efficient and effective decision making, thus ultimately contributing to society. The students themselves, through a thirst for knowledge and skills, will become self-directed learners, and learn how to work collaboratively with colleagues, all of which is essential for the Future Skills society. Based on two case studies, the chapter illustrates how the students develop their Future Skills and connect their learning experiences to explore various opportunities, whilst thinking and working in an ethical manner, adhering to a code of practice.
Interdisciplinary Project to Build Teaching Skills: A Pedagogical Approach
Authors: Garbin Mônica Cristina , de Oliveira Edison Trombeta
Published: April 2024

The concept of “competence” includes the knowledge to be acquired, skills and attitudes. It is not enough for the professional to have a lot of knowledge, but it is necessary that he knows how to mobilize his knowledge in solving problems or in creating something innovative. The Interdisciplinary Project (IP) developed by higher education students at Virtual University of São Paulo State—Univesp (Brazil) is guided by Project-Based Learning (PBL) and Human-Centered Design (HCD), in which the pedagogical action is based on the principle of the inseparability of the relationship between theory and practice. In this scenario, students develop at least six essential skills such as: Investigation; Problem Solving; Collaboration; Communication; Professional; and Technological Practice. The aim of this chapter is to correlate the skills proposed in the teacher’s education at Univesp with the Future Skills proposed by Ehlers (2020). As a result, we assess that Univesp is a leader in this area and can train teachers with skills for a better education in the future.
Teaching the Skills Needed for the Future
Authors: Bates Tony
Published: April 2024

Technology is leading to massive changes in the economy, in the way we communicate and relate to each other, and increasingly in the way we learn. Teachers and instructors are faced with a massive challenge of change. There are many opportunities in even the most academic courses to develop intellectual and practical skills that will carry over into work and life activities in a digital age, without corrupting the values or standards of academia. Even in vocational courses, students need opportunities to practice intellectual or conceptual skills such as problem-solving, communication skills, and collaborative learning. The chapter explores the skills that will be needed, and ways in which such skills can be developed. It approaches questions such as how we can ensure that we are developing the kinds of graduates from our courses and programs that are fit for an increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous future as well as how we can teach or help students develop the skills they will need in the twenty-first century.
The protective effect of vitamin A palmitate eye gel on the ocular surface during general anaesthesia surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Li Siyuan , Lei Guiyu , Liu Ying , Tian Lei , Jie Ying , Wang Guyan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To investigate the change in tear production associated with general anesthesia and the protective effect of vitamin A palmitate eye gel on the ocular surface during general anesthesia.

Methods

This double-blind, randomized clinical trial included patients undergoing non-ophthalmic surgery under general anesthesia who randomly received vitamin A palmitate eye gel and taping for one eye (Group A, n = 60) or taping alone for the other eye (Group B, n = 60). Symptom assessment in dry eye (SANDE) score, tear film break-up time (TBUT), corneal fluorescein staining (CFS) score, and Schirmer tear test I (STT-1) were analyzed under a hand-held slit lamp before anesthesia (T0), 0.5 h postoperatively (T1), and 24 h postoperatively (T2).

Results

At 0.5 h postoperatively, an increase in CFS score was observed in both groups (P < 0.05 in Group A and P < 0.01 in Group B), and the participants in Group A had less corneal abrasions than those in Group B. STT-1 significantly increased in Group A (P < 0.05), while it significantly decreased in Group B (P < 0.001). The changes between the two groups were statistically significant (P < 0.001). At 24 h postoperatively, both CFS score and STT-1 almost returned to baseline levels in the two groups. In both groups, the SANDE score and TBUT showed little change at 0.5 h and 24 h postoperatively (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Vitamin A palmitate eye gel effectively protected the ocular surface and aqueous supplementation during general anesthesia.

Trial registration

This study was registered in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry (ChiCTR2100052140) on 20/10/2021.
Was Robert Gibrat right? A test based on the graphical model methodology
Authors: Guerzoni Marco , Riso Luigi , Vivarelli Marco
Published: April 2024

Using both regression analysis and an unsupervised graphical model approach (never applied before to this issue), we confirm the rejection of Gibrat’s Law (stating that a firm’s growth is independent of that firm’s initial size) when our firm-level data are considered over the entire investigated period, while the opposite is true when we allow for market selection; indeed, the growth behavior of the surviving most efficient firms is in line with Gibrat’s Law. This evidence reconciles early and current literature and may have interesting implications in terms of both theoretical research and policy suggestions regarding subsidies to small firms, which do not necessarily grow faster than their larger counterparts.
Key antecedents of maximal levels of aspiration and minimal boundary goals: a structural equation modeling analysis
Authors: Hodis Flaviu A. , Hodis Georgeta M.
Published: April 2024

Research findings indicate that two types of goals, which focus on the lowest (highest) levels of achievement possible in a learning setting, are strong predictors of how well students attain in school. Unfortunately, little is known about how these two goals, termed minimal boundary goals (MBG) and maximal levels of aspiration (MLA) relate to psychological constructs that are theorized to be antecedents of goals. To fill this knowledge gap, this research collected data from 463 secondary-school students and tested a model linking these goals to achievement motives and theory of intelligence. Results revealed that not believing that intelligence is fixed and devoting effort to studying was associated with a strong endorsement of MLA. At the same time, making low/no efforts to study, being afraid of failure, and believing that intelligence is fixed were strong predictors of MBG. These findings advance current knowledge and have important implications for teaching and learning.
Identification of immune-associated biomarker for predicting lung adenocarcinoma: bioinformatics analysis and experiment verification of PTK6
Authors: Xiong Ren-Hui , Yang Shuo-Qi , Li Ji-Wei , Shen Xun-kai , Jin Lu-Ming , Chen Chao-Yang , Yue Yu-Ting , Yu Zhi-Chen , Sun Qing-Yu , Jiang Wen , Jiang Ming-Zheng , Wang Xiao-Yan , Song Shi-Xu , Cao Dai , Ye Hong-li , Zhao Li-Ran , Huang Li-Peng , Bu Liang
Published: April 2024

Background

Abnormal expression of protein tyrosine kinase 6 (PTK6) has been proven to be involved in the development of gynecological tumors. However, its immune-related carcinogenic mechanism in other tumors remains unclear.

Objective

The aim of this study was to identify PTK6 as a novel prognostic biomarker in pan-cancer, especially in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), which is correlated with immune infiltration, and to clarify its clinicopathological and prognostic significance.

Methods

The prognostic value and immune relevance of PTK6 were investigated by using bio-informatics in this study. PTK6 expression was validated in vitro experiments (lung cancer cell lines PC9, NCI-H1975, and HCC827; human normal lung epithelial cells BEAS-2B). Western blot (WB) revealed the PTK6 protein expression in lung cancer cell lines. PTK6 expression was inhibited by Tilfrinib. Colony formation and the Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay were used to detect cell proliferation. The wound healing and trans-well were performed to analyze the cell migration capacity. Then flow cytometry was conducted to evaluate the cell apoptosis. Eventually, the relationship between PTK6 and immune checkpoints was examined. WB was used to estimate the PD-L1 expression at different Tilfrinib doses.

Results

PTK6 was an independent predictive factor for LUAD and was substantially expressed in LUAD. Pathological stage was significantly correlated with increased PTK6 expression. In accordance with survival analysis, poor survival rate in LUAD was associated with a high expression level of PTK6. Functional enrichment of the cell cycle and TGF-β signaling pathway was demonstrated by KEGG and GSEA analysis. Moreover, PTK6 expression considerably associated with immune infiltration in LUAD, as determined by immune analysis. Thus, the result of vitro experiments indicated that cell proliferation and migration were inhibited by the elimination of PTK6. Additionally, PTK6 suppression induced cell apoptosis. Obviously, PD-L1 protein expression level up-regulated while PTK6 was suppressed.

Conclusion

PTK6 has predictive value for LUAD prognosis, and could up regulated PD-L1.