bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dye‐Based Fluorescent Organic Nanoparticles, New Promising Tools for Optogenetics
Authors: Lesas Jérémy , Bienvenu Thomas C.M. , Kurek Eleonore , Verlhac Jean‐Baptiste , Grivet Zoé , Têtu Maude , Girard Delphine , Lanore Frédéric , Blanchard‐Desce Mireille , Herry Cyril , Daniel Jonathan , Dejean Cyril
Published: September 2024

Dye‐based fluorescent organic nanoparticles are a specific class of nanoparticles obtained by nanoprecipitation in water of pure dyes only. While the photophysical and colloidal properties of the nanoparticles strongly depend on the nature of the aggregated dyes, their excellent brightness in the visible and in the near infrared make these nanoparticles a unique and versatile platform for in vivo application. This article examines the promising utilization of these nanoparticles for in vivo optogenetics applications. Their photophysical properties as well as their biocompatibility and their capacity to activate Chrimson opsin in vivo through the fluorescence reabsorption process are demonstrated. Additionally, an illustrative example of employing these nanoparticles in fear reduction in mice through closed‐loop stimulation is presented. Through an optogenetic methodology, the nanoparticles demonstrate an ability to selectively manipulate neurons implicated in the fear response and diminish the latter. Dye‐based fluorescent organic nanoparticles represent a promising and innovative strategy for optogenetic applications, holding substantial potential in the domain of translational neuroscience. This work paves the way for novel therapeutic modalities for neurological and neuropsychiatric disorders.
In Vivo Interactions of Nucleic Acid Nanostructures With Cells
Authors: Xiao Yu , Liang Zhihui , Shyngys Moldir , Baekova Aiana , Cheung Suen , Muljadi Mathias Billy , Bai Qianqian , Zeng Lula , Choi Chung Hang Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Nucleic acid nanostructures, derived from the assembly of nucleic acid building blocks (e.g., plasmids and oligonucleotides), are important intracellular carriers of therapeutic cargoes widely utilized in preclinical nanomedicine applications, yet their clinical translation remains scarce. In the era of “translational nucleic acid nanotechnology”, a deeper mechanistic understanding of the interactions of nucleic acid nanostructures with cells in vivo will guide the development of more efficacious nanomedicines. This review showcases the recent progress in dissecting the in vivo interactions of four key types of nucleic acid nanostructures (i.e., tile‐based, origami, spherical nucleic acid, and nucleic acid nanogel) with cells in rodents over the past five years. Emphasis lies on the cellular‐level distribution of nucleic acid nanostructures in various organs and tissues and the cellular responses induced by their cellular entry. Next, in the spirit of preclinical translation, this review features the latest interactions of nucleic acid nanostructures with cells in large animals and humans. Finally, the review offers directions for studying the interactions of nucleic acid nanostructures with cells from both materials and biology perspectives and concludes with some regulatory updates.
Temperature Promotes Photoluminescence in Lanthanide‐Doped 3D Ceramic Microarchitectures
Authors: Rosero‐Arias Cristian , Vásquez Geraldo Cristian , Davila‐Montero Noelia Geraldine , Winczewski Jedrzej , Mei Bastian , De Leon Israel , Maestre David , Gardeniers Han , Aguirre‐Soto Alan , Susarrey‐Arce Arturo
Published: September 2024

Two‐photon lithography (TPL) is a powerful technique for creating 3D microarchitectures. Applied to high‐refractive‐index materials like ZrO2, it promises advanced optics. This is the case of ZrO2 host matrixes in combination with luminescent dopants. However, due to the nonideal crystallinity attained to the TPL pre‐ceramic replica from a custom‐made photoresin, the emission of lanthanide (Ln) dopants in ZrO2 microarchitectures can be suboptimal. However, crystallinity exacerbated by annealing can promote Ln‐emission, thereby enabling the integration of ceramic micro‐optic into a low‐temperature process. This work presents a photoresin containing a metal‐organic monomer tailored for TPL, enabling the fabrication of Ln‐doped tetragonal ZrO2 (t‐ZrO2) microarchitectures. The emission properties of Ln‐doped microarchitectures with trivalent Ln ions (Ln3+), i.e., Yb3+ (2.5 mol%), Er3+ (0.35 mol%), and Tm3+ (0.35 mol%) are studied. The results demonstrate that Ln emission is absent when annealing the microarchitectures at 600 °C. Annealing at 750 °C activates Ln3+ emissions, including 2F5/2–2F7/2 (infrared), 4S3/2–4I15/2 (green), and 3H4–3F6 (near‐infrared) transitions corresponding to Yb, Er, and Tm species. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirms that t‐ZrO2 crystallinity becomes more prominent at 750 °C, demonstrating the promotion of Ln emissions upon thermal treatment and underscoring the role of crystalline in TPL micro‐optical ceramics.
Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering and Photothermal Effects on Optoplasmonic Nanofibers
Authors: Wallace Gregory Q. , Ringe Emilie , Faulds Karen , Graham Duncan , Masson Jean‐François
Published: September 2024

When decorated with plasmonic nanoparticles, pulled optical nanofibers are compatible with plasmonic techniques enabling the ability to probe microenvironments with high spatial and temporal resolution. Although the nanofibers exhibit excellent compatibility for biological samples including cells and tissues, the underlying interactions between the dielectric fiber, plasmonic nanoparticles, and the incident light have been minimally explored. It is shown that the complex coupling of optical and plasmonic properties within the nanofiber strongly influences both the surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and photothermal capabilities. Through a combination of experimental results and simulated electric field distributions and spectra it is demonstrated that, although the nanofibers may be homogeneously decorated with gold nanoparticles, the optical effects spatially differ. Specifically, the SERS performance varies periodically based on the diameter of the nanofiber, which is associated with ring resonator modes, while the photothermal effects are more homogeneous over the same diameters, highlighting differences in optoplasmonic properties at this length scale. Through understanding these effects, it may become possible to control temperatures and SERS properties to evaluate processes with micrometric spatial resolution, such as the analytes secreted during temperature‐induced death of single cells.
Visible‐Light‐Induced C−H Silylation of Azauracils with Hydrosilanes
Authors: Yu Yongqi , You Mengdan , Yu Jiajia , Kong Weiguang , Zhang Chunyan , Bai Jinjin , Li Wenguang , Li Ting
Published: September 2024

C−H silylation of azauracils was developed via the combination of organic photoredox and hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) catalysis. Using 1,2,3,5‐tetrakis(carbazol‐9‐yl)‐4,6‐dicyanobenzene (4CzIPN) as the photocatalyst, quinuclidine as the HAT catalyst, and silanes as the silyl radical source, a variety of silylated azauracils were synthesized in 43–87% yield. Moreover, pyrazinone, cinnolinone, and chromone were also compatible with this catalytic system. The reaction is suitable for late‐stage functionalization of drugs and complex molecules, and the transformation can be easily scaled up to gram level. Mechanistic studies suggest that the silylation reaction is likely to proceed through a radical mechanism.
Taming the Production of Bioluminescent Wood Using the White Rot Fungus Desarmillaria Tabescens
Authors: Schwarze Francis W. M. R. , Carvalho Tiago , Reina Giacomo , Greca Luiz Garcia , Buenter Urs , Gholam Zennat , Krupnik Leonard , Neels Antonia , Boesel Luciano , Morris Hugh , Heeb Markus , Huch Anja , Nyström Gustav , Giovannini Giorgia
Published: September 2024

Although bioluminescence is documented both anecdotally and experimentally, the parameters involved in the production of fungal bioluminescence during wood colonization have not been identified to date. Here, for the first time, this work develops a methodology to produce a hybrid living material by manipulating wood colonization through merging the living fungus Desarmillaria tabescens with nonliving balsa (Ochroma pyramidale) wood to achieve and control the autonomous emission of bioluminescence. The hybrid material with the highest bioluminescence is produced by soaking the wood blocks before co‐cultivating them with the fungus for 3 months. Regardless of the incubation period, the strongest bioluminescence is evident from balsa wood blocks with a moisture content of 700–1200%, highlighting the fundamental role of moisture content for bioluminescence production. Further characterization reveals that D. tabescens preferentially degraded hemicelluloses and lignin in balsa wood. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy reveals a decrease in lignin, while X‐ray diffraction analysis confirms that the cellulose crystalline structure is not altered during the colonization process. This information will enable the design of ad‐hoc synthetic materials that use fungi as tools to maximize bioluminescence production, paving the way for an innovative hybrid material that could find application in the sustainable production of light.
A Micromanipulation‐Actuated Large‐Scale Screening to Identify Optimized Microphysiological Model Parameters in Skeletal Muscle Regeneration
Authors: Chen Xie , Sun Tao , Shimoda Shingo , Wang Huaping , Huang Qiang , Fukuda Toshio , Shi Qing
Published: September 2024

Hydrogel‐based 3D cell cultures are extensively utilized to create biomimetic cellular microstructures. However, there is still lack of effective method for both evaluation of the complex interaction of cells with hydrogel and the functionality of the resulting micro‐structures. This limitation impedes the further application of these microstructures as microphysiological models (microPMs) for the screening of potential culture condition combinations to enhance the skeletal muscle regeneration. This paper introduces a two‐probe micromanipulation method for the large‐scale assessment of viscoelasticity and contractile force (CF) of skeletal muscle microPMs, which are produced in high‐throughput via microfluidic spinning and 96‐well culture. The collected data demonstrate that viscoelasticity parameters (E* and tanδ) and CF both measured in a solution environment are indicative of the formation of cellular structures without hydrogel residue and the subsequent generation of myotubes, respectively. This study have developed screening criterias that integrate E*, tanδ, and CF to examine the effects of multifactorial interactions on muscle fiber repair under hypoxic conditions and within bioprinted bipennate muscle structures. This approach has improved the quality of hypoxic threshold evaluation and aligned cell growth in 3D. The proposed method is useful in exploring the role of different factors in muscle tissue regeneration with limited resources.
Evolving Synergy Between Synthetic and Biotic Elements in Conjugated Polyelectrolyte/Bacteria Composite Improves Charge Transport and Mechanical Properties
Authors: McCuskey Samantha R. , Quek Glenn , Vázquez Ricardo Javier , Kundukad Binu , Bin Ismail Muhammad Hafiz , Astorga Solange E. , Jiang Yan , Bazan Guillermo C.
Published: September 2024

gLiving materials can achieve unprecedented function by combining synthetic materials with the wide range of cellular functions. Of interest are situations where the critical properties of individual abiotic and biotic elements improve via their combination. For example, integrating electroactive bacteria into conjugated polyelectrolyte (CPE) hydrogels increases biocurrent production. One observes more efficient electrical charge transport within the CPE matrix in the presence of Shewanella oneidensis MR‐1 and more current per cell is extracted, compared to traditional biofilms. Here, the origin of these synergistic effects are examined. Transcriptomics reveals that genes in S. oneidensis MR‐1 related to bacteriophages and energy metabolism are upregulated in the composite material. Fluorescent staining and rheological measurements before and after enzymatic treatment identified the importance of extracellular biomaterials in increasing matrix cohesion. The synergy between CPE and S. oneidensis MR‐1 thus arises from initially unanticipated changes in matrix composition and bacteria adaption within the synthetic environment.
Electrochemically Driven Nickel‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Hydro‐Arylation/Alkenylation of Enones
Authors: Ye Zenghui , Ma Weiyuan , Zhang Xi , Liu Huaqing , Zhang Fengzhi
Published: September 2024

Herein, the study reports the first electrochemical nickel‐catalyzed enantioselective hydro‐arylation/alkenylation of enones in an undivided cell with low‐cost electrodes in the absence of external reductants and supporting electrolytes. Aryl bromides/iodides/triflates or alkenyl bromides are employed as electrophiles for the efficient preparation of more than 56 valuable β‐arylated/alkenylated ketones in a simple manner (up to 97% yield, 97% ee). With the advantages of electrochemistry, excellent functional group tolerance and late‐stage modification of complex natural products and pharmaceuticals made the established protocol greener and more economic. Mechanism investigation suggests that a NiI/NiIII cycle may be involved in this electro‐reductive reaction rather than metal reductant driven Ni0/NiII cycle. Overall, the efficient electrochemical activation and turnover of the nickel catalyst avoid the drawbacks posed by the employment of stoichiometric amount of sensitive metal powder reductants.
RuO2 with Short‐Range Ordered Tantalum Single Atoms for Enhanced Acidic Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Li Zijian , Jang Haeseong , Chen Changsheng , Liu Shangguo , Wang Liu , Kim Min Gyu , Cho Jaephil , Qin Qing , Liu Xien
Published: September 2024

Ruthenium Dioxide (RuO2), as one of the most promising alternatives to IrO2, suffers from the severe dissolution and overoxidation of Ru active sites during the acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which hinders its practical application. Herein, the study constructs a short‐range ordered tantalum single atoms‐doped RuO2 catalyst (Ta‐RuO2) with asymmetric Ru‐O‐Ta(‐O‐Ta) active units for the enhanced acidic OER. The Ta‐RuO2 catalyst exhibits superior catalytic activity with an overpotential of 201 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and a long‐lasting stability of 280 h. Physical characterizations combined with electrochemical tests reveal that the incorporation of atomically arranged Ta atoms induces significant tensile strain, effectively optimizing the adsorption strength of oxygen‐containing intermediates by regulating the Ru d‐band center and weakening the Ru‐O covalency, thus boosting the catalytic activity. Furthermore, the formed Ru‐O‐Ta(‐O‐Ta) active local structure is well maintained during the OER process owing to the synergy of strong corrosion resistance of Ta‐O bonds and the electron transfers from Ta to Ru via oxygen bridge stabilizing the Ru sites, contributing to the enhanced stability. This study provides a novel method via incorporation of corrosion‐resistant and short‐range ordered single atoms to significantly enhance the acidic OER stability and activity of cost‐effective catalysts.
Optimizing the prediction of adsorption in metal–organic frameworks leveraging Q‐learning
Authors: Osaro Etinosa , Colón Yamil J.
Published: September 2024

The application of machine learning (ML) techniques in materials science has revolutionized the pace and scope of materials research and design. In the case of metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), a promising class of materials due to their tunable properties and versatile applications in gas adsorption and separation, ML has helped survey the vast material space. This study explores the integration of reinforcement learning (RL), specifically Q‐learning, within an active learning (AL) context, combined with Gaussian processes (GPs) for predictive modeling of adsorption in MOFs. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the RL‐driven framework in guiding the selection of training data points and optimizing predictive model performance for methane and carbon dioxide adsorption, using two different reward metrics. Our results highlight the integration of RL as an AL method for adsorption predictions in MFs, and how it compares to a previously implemented AL scheme.
Exploration of Geographical Environmental Factors Influencing Regional Population Mortality Patterns in China
Authors: Li Tiantian , Li Handong
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The regional population mortality patterns in China exhibit substantial geographical distribution characteristics. This paper aims to explore the impact and mechanisms of geographical environmental factors on regional population mortality patterns.

Methods

This study first utilized the data from China's Seventh Population Census to obtain mortality patterns for the 31 provincial‐level administrative regions. Subsequently, a functional regression method was employed to explore the geographical environmental driving factors of regional mortality patterns.

Results

The study provides a detailed explanation of the mechanisms and marginal contributions of key geographical environmental factors at different age groups.

Conclusions

(1) The impact of geographical environmental factors on mortality patterns shows distinct phased characteristics. Mortality patterns before the age of 40 years are hardly influenced by geographical environmental factors, with a noticeable impact beginning at ages 40–69 years and reaching the maximum influence after the age of 70 years. (2) In mortality patterns at ages 40–69 years, average altitude have the most substantial impact, followed by extreme low‐temperature days and PM2.5 concentration. In mortality patterns at ages 70–94 years, high‐temperature days have the greatest influence, followed by the impact of SO2 concentration. (3) In comparisons based on gender, socioeconomic factors, and geographical environmental factors, gender and urban–rural differences have the most significant impact on regional population mortality patterns, followed by the influence of other socioeconomic factors, with geographical environmental factors having a relatively smaller impact.
Detection of sex‐specific glutamate changes in subregions of hippocampus in an early‐stage Alzheimer's disease mouse model using GluCEST MRI
Authors: Soni Narayan Datt , Swain Anshuman , Juul Halvor , Cao Quy , Haris Mohammad , Wolk David A. , Lee Virginia M.‐Y. , Detre John A. , Nanga Ravi Prakash Reddy , Reddy Ravinder
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

Regional glucose hypometabolism resulting in glutamate loss has been shown as one of the characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Because the impact of AD varies between the sexes, we utilized glutamate‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for high‐resolution spatial mapping of cerebral glutamate and investigated subregional changes in a sex‐specific manner.

METHODS

Eight‐month‐old male and female AD mice harboring mutant amyloid precursor protein (APPNL‐F/NL‐F:n= 36) and wild‐type (WT:n= 39) mice underwent GluCEST MRI, followed by proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H‐MRS) in hippocampus and thalamus/hypothalamus using 9.4T preclinical MR scanner.

RESULTS

GluCEST measurements revealed significant (p ≤ 0.02) glutamate loss in the entorhinal cortex (% change ± standard error: 8.73 ± 2.12%), hippocampus (11.29 ± 2.41%), and hippocampal fimbriae (19.15 ± 2.95%) of male AD mice. A similar loss of hippocampal glutamate in male AD mice (11.22 ± 2.33%;p= 0.01) was also observed in1H‐MRS.

DISCUSSIONS

GluCEST MRI detected glutamate reductions in the fimbria and entorhinal cortex of male AD mice, which was not reported previously. Resilience in female AD mice against these changes indicates an intact status of cerebral energy metabolism.

Highlights

Glutamate levels were monitored in different brain regions of early‐stage Alzheimer's disease (AD) and wild‐type male and female mice using glutamate‐weighted chemical exchange saturation transfer (GluCEST) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Male AD mice exhibited significant glutamate loss in the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and the fimbriae of the hippocampus.

Interestingly, female AD mice did not have any glutamate loss in any brain region and should be investigated further to find the probable cause.

These findings demonstrate previously unreported sex‐specific glutamate changes in hippocampal sub‐regions using high‐resolution GluCEST MRI.
Verbesserte Propylen/Propan‐Trennung durch eine Anilin‐modifizierte ZIF‐8‐Membran: Gittersteifigkeit und Adsorptionszentren
Authors: Zhang Xin , Hai Guangtong , Yao Yujian , Zhang Zheng , Cao Qingbin , Tan Hongxin , Ding Li , Han Jiuli , Wei Yanying , Caro Jürgen , Wang Haihui
Published: September 2024

Membranen auf Basis metallorganischer Gerüststrukturen (metal–organic frameworks=MOFs) ermöglichen molekulare Trennungen und stoßen daher auf erhebliches Forschungsinteresse. Die kristallographisch begründete Nanoporenstruktur und selektive Adsorptionswechselwirkungen bestimmen die Gastrennleistung von MOF‐Membranen. In unserem Syntheseansatz wurde der ZIF‐8‐Syntheselösung Anilin in unterschiedlichen Konzentrationen zugesetzt. Anilin, das in den großen ZIF‐8‐Hohlräumen verkapselt ist, interagiert stark mit dem 2‐Methylimidazolat‐Linker, was sowohl zu einer Verschiebung der kristallographisch flexiblen ZIF‐8‐Phase I_43 m zur steifen Phase Cm führt (Rietveld‐Verfeinerung der Röntgenbeugungsmuster) als auch eine selektive Propen‐Adsorption ermöglicht. Es wurde eine Anilin‐modifizierte ZIF‐8 (Anix‐ZIF‐8)‐Membran durch schnelle Elektro‐Synthese hergestellt, die eine gute Propylen/Propan‐Trennungsselektivität von bis zu 85 aufweist. Die Berechnung der Wechselwirkungsenergie zwischen Anilin und den verschiedenen kristallographischen Phasen von ZIF‐8 mit Hilfe der Dichtefunktionaltheorie (DFT) bestätigt weiterhin, dass Anilin nicht nur die Bildung der kristallographischen Cm‐Phase fördert, sondern auch die Adsorptionsselektivität von Propylen gegenüber Propan erhöht. Durch die Anilinmodifikation wird die kristallographische Phasenstruktur von ZIF‐8 effektiv beeinflusst und ein molekulares Propylen/Propan‐Sieben ermöglicht.
Enhanced Propylene/Propane Separation via Aniline‐Decorated ZIF‐8 Membrane: Lattice Rigidity Adjustment and Adsorption Site Introduction
Authors: Zhang Xin , Hai Guangtong , Yao Yujian , Zhang Zheng , Cao Qingbin , Tan Hongxin , Ding Li , Han Jiuli , Wei Yanying , Caro Jürgen , Wang Haihui
Published: September 2024

Metal–organic framework (MOF)‐based membranes excel in molecular separation, attracting significant research interest. The crystallographic microstructure and selective adsorption capacity of MOFs closely correlate with their gas separation performance. Here, aniline was added to the ZIF‐8 synthesis in varying concentrations. Aniline, encapsulated within ZIF‐8 cavities, interacts strongly with the 2‐methylimidazole linker, resulting in both a shift in crystallographic phase from I_43 m to Cm in Rietveld refinement of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) patterns and the selective adsorption behavior between propylene and propane. Consequently, an aniline decorative ZIF‐8 (Anix‐ZIF‐8) membrane was prepared using a fast current‐driven synthesis method, which exhibits good propylene/propane separation selectivity of up to 85. Calculation of the interaction energy between aniline and the various crystallographic phases of ZIF‐8 using density functional theory (DFT) further verifies that aniline not only promotes the formation of crystallographic Cm phase, but also enhances the adsorption selectivity of propylene over propane. Aniline modification effectively tunes the crystallographic microstructure of ZIF‐8, thereby, improving molecular sieving capabilities.
Asymmetric Synthesis of Chiral Calix[4]arenes with Both Inherent and Axial Chirality via Cobalt‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Intermolecular C−H Annulation
Authors: Qian Pu‐Fan , Zhou Gang , Hu Jia‐Heng , Wang Bing‐Jie , Jiang Ao‐Lian , Zhou Tao , Yuan Wen‐Kui , Yao Qi‐Jun , Chen Jia‐Hao , Kong Ke‐Xin , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: September 2024

Inherently chiral calixarenes have garnered significant attention due to their distinctive properties, yet the development of efficient catalytic asymmetric synthesis methods remains a critical challenge. Herein, we report the asymmetric synthesis of calix[4]arenes featuring inherent or both inherent and axial chirality via a cobalt‐catalyzed C−H activation/annulation strategy in high yield with excellent enantio‐ and diastereoselectivity (up to >99 % ee and >20 : 1 dr). Electrooxidation was also suitable for this transformation to obviate the sacrificial metal oxidants, underscoring the environmentally friendly potential of this approach. A key octahedral cobaltacycle intermediate was synthesized and characterized, providing valuable insights into the mode of enantio‐ and diastereocontrol of this protocol. Noteworthy photoluminescence quantum yields of up to 0.94 were measured, underscoring the potential of these compounds in the domain of organic fluorescent materials.
Enhancement of Intracellular Cholesterol Efflux in Chondrocytes Leading to Alleviation of Osteoarthritis Progression
Authors: Lee Gyuseok , Yang Jiye , Kim Su‐Jin , Tran Thanh‐Tam , Lee Sun Young , Park Ka Hyon , Kwon Seung‐Hee , Chung Ki‐Ho , Koh Jeong‐Tae , Huh Yun Hyun , Seon Jong‐Keun , Kim Hyun Ah , Chun Jang‐Soo , Ryu Je‐Hwang
Published: September 2024

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common degenerative disease worldwide, with no practical means of prevention and limited treatment options. Recently, our group unveiled a novel mechanism contributing to OA pathogenesis in association with abnormal cholesterol metabolism in chondrocytes. In this study, we aimed to establish a clinical link between lipid profiles and OA in humans, assess the effectiveness of cholesterol‐lowering drugs in suppressing OA development in mice, and uncover the cholesterol‐lowering mechanisms that effectively impede OA progression.

Methods

Five clinically approved cholesterol‐lowering drugs (fenofibrate, atorvastatin, ezetimibe, niacin, and lomitapide) were injected into the knee joints or administered with diet to mice with OA who underwent destabilization of the medial meniscus induction and were fed a 2% high‐cholesterol diet. Gene expression linked to cholesterol metabolism was determined using microarray analysis. Furthermore, the in vivo functions of these genes were explored through intra‐articular injection of either its inhibitor or adenovirus.

Results

Logistic regression analysis confirmed a close relationship between the diagnostic criteria of hyperlipidemia based on serum lipid levels and OA incidence. Among the cholesterol‐lowering drugs examined, fenofibrate exerted the most significant protective effect against cartilage destruction, which was attributed to elevated levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol that are crucial for cholesterol efflux. Notably, cholesterol efflux was suppressed during OA progression via down‐regulation of apolipoprotein A1–binding protein (AIBP) expression. Overexpression of AIBP effectively inhibits OA progression.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that restoration of cholesterol homeostasis to a normal state through administration of fenofibrate or AIBP overexpression, both of which induce cholesterol efflux, offers an effective therapeutic option for patients with OA.
The ARTISTIC Battery Manufacturing Digitalization Initiative: From Fundamental Research to Industrialization
Authors: Troncoso Javier F. , Zanotto Franco M. , Galvez‐Aranda Diego E. , Zapata Dominguez Diana , Denisart Lucie , Franco Alejandro A.
Published: September 2024

Our ARTISTIC project was born in 2018 to improve the efficiency of lithium‐ion battery cell manufacturing process through computational modelling, allowing the research and development of new digital tools to accelerate the optimization of this process. Thanks to the development and use of innovative numerical models, machine learning algorithms and virtual and mixed reality tools, we could significantly advance the understanding of manufacturing/battery cell performance relationships. However, scientific research by itself is not enough to bring innovations into practical applications for society. The creation of spin‐offs or start‐ups can ease the transition from research to application, since it allows scaling up the research outputs into products or services ready‐to‐use by the customers. In this Concept, we discuss the benefits of this transition, we introduce the research findings obtained in the last years within the framework of our ARTISTIC project, and our actions to move from our research to industrial products.
Prognostic value of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes and PD‐L1 expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hu Jie , Toyozumi Takeshi , Murakami Kentaro , Endo Satoshi , Matsumoto Yasunori , Otsuka Ryota , Shiraishi Tadashi , Iida Shinichiro , Morishita Hiroki , Makiyama Tenshi , Nishioka Yuri , Uesato Masaya , Hayano Koichi , Nakano Akira , Matsubara Hisahiro
Published: September 2024

Background

Tumor cells (TC) participate in tumor progression by altering the immune responses in the tumor microenvironment. However, the clinical relevance and prognostic effect of PD‐L1 expression and tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are unknown. The purpose of this study was to investigate the interactions and clinical significance of PD‐L1 expression and TILs in ESCC.

Methods

Tissue specimens were collected from 126 patients with ESCC who underwent curative esophagectomy. Immunohistochemical analysis and multiplex immunofluorescence for CD4, CD8, CD25, FOXP3, and PD‐L1 in the tumor were used to identify multiple tumor‐infiltrating immune cells (TIIC), Tregs, and TC.

Results

PD‐L1 was expressed in tumor cells (PD‐L1 TC). PD‐L1 TIIC and PD‐L1 TC affected the biological behavior of TC. The positive expression rate of PD‐L1 TC and CD8+ TILs was 27.8% (35/126) and 31.7% (40/126), respectively. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed that overall survival (OS) was significantly associated with decreased CD8+ TILs and PD‐L1 TC‐positive expression, which promote ESCC progression and metastasis.

Conclusion

Tumor depth, CD8, and PD‐L1 TC were independent prognostic factors in ESCC, and a predictive nomogram with these three risk factors improved the accuracy of predicting OS in patients with ESCC after surgical resection. The conjoint analysis of multiple immune‐related factors is beneficial for stratifying patient survival risk.
Driving eco‐friendly product purchases through social media: How does peer influence work?
Authors: Chen Chiyin , Li Zhen , Yang Shuai , Cao Dongmei
Published: September 2024

Social media platforms expose individuals to both peer and marketer influences. While these influences have garnered significant research attention regarding their impact on consumer behaviors, the findings have been a subject of debate. This research examines how peer influence from user‐generated content (UGC) differs from marketer influence from marketer‐generated content (MGC) in its effect on consumers' eco‐friendly product (EFP) purchases and how peer influence takes place. Study 1 uses online field data from an e‐commerce company and suggests that peer influence is associated with more sales, whereas there is no empirical evidence to support a similar effect for marketer influence. Utilizing online survey data collected from social media users, Study 2 further reveals that informational and normative peer influences significantly increase consumers' purchase intention via environmental self‐efficacy and positive moral emotion. Notably, tie strength with the influencing peer plays a crucial role in moderating the relationship between different peer influences, the mediators, and the mediation paths. Our research advances knowledge of peer influence on EFP consumer behaviors, extends the UGC literature through the lens of peer influence and tie strength, and offers practical implications for social media marketers and policymakers promoting eco‐friendly products.
In Silico and In Vivo Evaluation of Anti‐Arthritic Effects of Bakuchiol from Psoralea corylifolia Seeds in Experimental Rat Model
Authors: Saini Kamal , Chauhan Samrat , Dar Mohammad Ovais , Gupta Sumeet , Singh Inder Pal , Rawal Ravindra K. , Gupta Nidhi
Published: September 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease mainly affecting the joints categorized by inflammation, swelling of the synovium and decrease in the joint movement. Bakuchiol, a meroterpene class of natural product present in Psoralea corylifolia known to possess anti‐inflammatory effects by a variety of mechanisms. However, its effects in rheumatoid arthritis still remain unclear. In the present investigation, we studied the anti‐arthritic effects of bakuchiol via in silico and in vivo experiments. It also showed antioxidant effects measured using DPPH assay where it showed free radical scavenging activity with IC50 value 468.26 μg/ml. Molecular Docking studies carried out on COX‐1 (PDB ID: 3 N8Z), COX‐2 (PDB ID: 4PH9) and TNF‐α (PDB ID: 7JRA), proteins involved in inflammation in arthritis. Bakuchiol showed the maximum binding affinity for TNF‐α with binding affinity score is −7.29 kcal/moland less affinity was observed for COX‐1 and 2. In vivo antiarthritic effects were studied in arthritic female wistar rats model prepared by intradermal injection of freund's complete adjuvant. Bakuchiol was administered orally at dose of 10,20 and 40 mg/kg for 21 days. Our treatment showed that bakuchiol at 20 and 40 mg/kg exhibited significant anti‐inflammatory effects (p<0.001) showed by significant decrease in paw volume, paw diameter, spleen and thymus weight and increase in pain threshold and body weight in arthritic rat model. A significant decrease in hematological parameters such as total leukocyte count (TLC), platelet count, CRP and rheumatoid arthritis factor (RF) and increase in red blood cells count, ESR and hemoglobin further demonstrated that bakuchiol treatment suppresses the progression of adjuvant induced arthritis (AIA) in arthritic rat model. Histological analysis further revealed that bakuchiol ameliorates the pathological manifestations of AIA and reverse the abnormality induced by AIA in rats shown by protection against bone necrosis involved with low influx of inflammatory cells. Therefore, in silico and in vivo results revealed that bakuchiol has the potential to be developed as potent antiarthritic agent.
Design, Synthesis, Antibacterial, and Antifungal Evaluation of a New Series of Quinazoline – Thiazole and/or Quinazoline – Triazole Hybrids as Bioactive Heterocycles
Authors: El‐Shahat Mahmoud , Tawfek Nashwa , El‐Sofany Walaa I.
Published: September 2024

Herein, a one‐pot reaction between cyclohexanone, thiourea, and 2,5‐dimethoxybenzaldehyde allowed to prepare hexahydroquinazoline‐2(1H)‐thione4 firstly, which followed by reacting with hydrazine hydrate to produce the corresponding 2‐hydrazinylhexahydroquinazoline 6. Interesting analogs of thiazolo[3,2‐a]quinazoline 713 where obtained when hexahydroquinazoline‐2(1H)‐thione 4 reacted with 1,2‐dibromoethane, chloroacetyl chloride, bromoacetic acid, bromoacetic acid/4‐chlorobenzaldehyde, 2‐bromopropionic acid, ethyl bromo cyanoacetate, and/or bromomalononitrile; respectively. While triazolo[4,3‐a] quinazoline 14–16 were created when 2‐hydrazinylhexahydroquinazoline 6 reacted with triethyl orthoformate, acetic anhydride, and carbon disulfide respectively. Numerous spectroscopy tests, including FT‐IR, NMR (1H &13 C), and MS spectrum, proved all the newly produced analogs. Additionally, the new analogs were examined for their antibacterial and antifungal properties against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida albicans. It was discovered that triazolo[4,3‐a] quinazoline analogs 14–16 have superior bacterial and fungal activity when compared to the corresponding conventional doses of Streptomycin andGriseofulvin. Towards Candida albicans; compounds 14, 15, and 16 increase activity with 1.14 %, 1.15 %, and 1.21 %, respectively more than griseofulvin.While, for Staphylococcus aureus; compounds 14, 15, and 16 increase activity with 1.5 %, 1.5 %, and 1.7 %, respectively more than streptomycin. Morever, for Escherichia coli; compounds 14, 15, and 16 increase activity with 1.19 %, 1.21 %, and 1.22 %, respectively more than streptomycin. Finally, structure activity relationships show that quinazoline derivatives exhibit higher activity when fused to pyrazole ring 14–16 as compared when fused thiophene ring 7–13.
What Can Really Be Considered a Syndrome? An Insight Based on 16p11.2 Microduplication
Authors: Mergener Rafaella , Nascimento Lívia Polisseni Cotta , Böttcher Ana Kalise , Nunes Marcela Rodrigues , Zen Paulo Ricardo Gazzola
Published: September 2024

What is the definition of Syndrome? Since the beginning of studies in genetics, certain terminologies have been created and used to define groups of diseases or alterations. With the advancement of knowledge and the emergence of new technologies, the use of basic concepts is being done in a mistaken or often confusing way. Because of this, revisiting and readjusting the old terms becomes imminent. Here, we explore these concepts and their use, through a literature compilation of an already well‐defined genetic alteration (16q11.2 microduplication). We bring comparisons in clinical and molecular scope of the alteration itself and its diagnostic methods, to improve the report of cases, rescuing terminologies and their applicability nowadays.
Targeting SARS‐CoV‐2 Proteins: In Silico Investigation with Polypyridyl‐Based Zn(II)‐Curcumin Complexes
Authors: Gawande Vedant , Kushwaha Rajesh , Mandal Arif Ali , Banerjee Samya
Published: September 2024

Herein, we have selected eight Zn(II)‐based complexes viz., [Zn(bpy)(acac)Cl] (1), [Zn(phen)(acac)Cl] (2), [Zn(dppz)(acac)Cl] (3), [Zn(dppn)(acac)Cl] (4), [Zn(bpy)(cur)Cl] (5), [Zn(phen)(cur)Cl] (6), [Zn(dppz)(cur)Cl] (7), [Zn(dppn)(cur)Cl] (8), where bpy=2,2′‐bipyridine, phen=1,10‐phenanthroline, dppz=benzo[i]dipyrido[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine, dppn=naphtho[2,3‐i]dipyrido[3,2‐a:2′,3′‐c]phenazine, acac=acetylacetonate, cur=curcumin and performed in silico molecular docking studies with the viral proteins, i. e., spike protein (S), Angiotensin‐converting enzyme II Receptor protein (ACE2), nucleocapsid protein (N), main protease protein (Mpro), and RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase protein (RdRp) of SARS‐CoV‐2. The binding energy calculations, visualization of the docking orientation, and analysis of the interactions revealed that these complexes could be potential inhibitors of the viral proteins. Among complexes 1–8, complex 6 showed the strongest binding affinity with S and ACE2 proteins. 4 exerted better binding affinity in the case of the N protein, whereas 8 presented the highest binding affinities with Mpro and RdRp among all the complexes. Overall, the study indicated that Zn(II) complexes have the potential as alternative and viable therapeutic solutions for COVID‐19.
Recent Advances of In Situ Insights into CO2 Reduction toward Fuels
Authors: Chen Liang , Zhang Chengbin , Jiao Xingchen
Published: September 2024

The conversion of CO2 into valuable chemical fuels addresses both environmental pollution and energy scarcity. However, understanding reaction mechanisms and the dynamic catalyst evolution during CO2 reduction remains a challenge to data. In this review, we present a detailed description of recent advanced in situ characterization techniques, which provide a reliable means of monitoring the intermediate evolution during CO2 reduction and the dynamic evolution of the catalyst, respectively. Finally, we provide an outlook on the development of in situ characterization techniques.
Selective Synthesis of 3D Aligned VO2 and V2O5 Carbon Nanotube Hybrid Materials by Chemical Vapor Deposition
Authors: Dönges Inga , Yadav Sandeep , Trouillet Vanessa , Schneider Jörg J.
Published: September 2024

3D carbon nanotube hybrid materials containing VO2 and V2O5 evenly distributed onto vertically aligned carbon nanotubes (VACNTs) is reported. Adjustable loading of particles in controllable sizes and shapes onto the VACNTs was developed via a stepwise chemical vapour deposition (CVD) approach. Solid VO(acac)2 is chosen as vanadium source. CO2 acts as reactive gas for the pre‐functionalisation of the VACNTs. The process temperature was identified as key parameter to control the deposited vanadium oxide phase. A temperature of 550 °C results in monoclinic VO2, while 600 °C results in the deposition of V2O5 onto the VACNT support. The morphology and the amount of deposited material was found to be dependent on the reactor dimensions and the degree of functionalisation of the carbon support. An increase of the D/G ratio of the VACNT from 0.75 to 1.08 caused by a CO2 treatment step within the process led to an increase of the particle coverage from a scarce coverage without prior CO2 treatment to a dense coverage of the VACNT support after 15 min of CO2 exposure time. Size and crystallinity of the as deposited particles can be further adjusted by a controlled heat treatment after VO(acac)2 precursor deposition.
Renaturierung der Emscher
Authors: Groß Michael
Published: September 2024

Zahlreiche Flüsse in Europa und Nordamerika wurden seit der Industrialisierung zur Entsorgung von toxischen Abfällen missbraucht. Inzwischen werden sie vielerorts gesäubert und in einen naturähnlichen Zustand zurückgeführt. Ein Musterbeispiel fließt mitten durch das Ruhrgebiet: die Emscher (Abbildung 1).
Is There a Need for Sex‐Tailored Lipoprotein(a) Cut‐Off Values for Coronary Artery Disease Risk Stratification?
Authors: Yurtseven Ece , Ural Dilek , Gursoy Erol , Cunedioglu Bekay Omer , Guler Orhan Ulas , Baysal Kemal , Aytekin Saide , Aytekin Vedat , Kayikcioglu Meral
Published: September 2024

Background

Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] plasma level is a well‐known risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). Existing data regarding the influence of sex on the Lp(a)‐CAD relationship are inconsistent.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between Lp(a) and CAD in men and women and to elucidate any sex‐specific differences that may exist.

Methods

Data of patients with Lp(a) measurements who were admitted to a tertiary university hospital, Koc University Hospital, were analyzed. The relationship between Lp(a) levels and CAD was explored in all patients and in subgroups created by sex. Two commonly accepted Lp(a) thresholds ≥ 30 and ≥ 50 mg/dL were analyzed.

Results

A total of 1858 patients (mean age 54 ± 17 years; 53.33% females) were included in the analysis. Lp(a) was an independent predictor of CAD according to the multivariate regression model for the entire cohort. In all cohort, both cut‐off values (≥ 30 and ≥ 50 mg/dL) were detected as independent predictors of CAD (p < 0.001). In sex‐specific analysis, an Lp(a) ≥ 30 mg/dL was an independent predictor of CAD only in women (p < 0.001), but Lp(a) ≥ 50 mg/dL was a CAD predictor both in men and women (men, p = 0.004; women, p = 0.047).

Conclusion

The findings of this study may suggest that different thresholds of Lp(a) level can be employed for risk stratification in women compared to men.
Risk scores predicting disease progression in early‐stage chronic lymphocytic leukemia: Comparative analysis and usefulness of IGHV subset #2 to improve their accuracy
Authors: Arguello‐Tomas Miguel , Mozas Pablo , Albiol Nil , López‐Esteban Miguel , Sierra Jorge , Nomdedéu Josep , Martinez‐Laperche Carolina , Moga Esther , Piñeyroa Juan A. , Delgado Julio , Osorio Santiago , Moreno Carol
Published: September 2024

Background

Overall, the prognosis of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) in the early phase of the disease (Rai 0, Binet A) is favorable; some patients never require therapy. However, some patients require intervention shortly after diagnosis. In the past decade, several risk scores (RS) have been developed to predict disease progression, yet some patients are misclassified. On the other hand, IGHV subset 2 (IGHV2) predicts poor outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective and multicentric study was conducted to compare the accuracy of five different RS (IPS‐E, CR0, AIPS‐E, CLL‐IPI, and Barcelona‐Brno) to predict disease progression in 781 stage A previously untreated patients with CLL. As an exploratory analysis, it was further investigated whether the inclusion of the IGHV2 as a poor prognostic parameter improved the accuracy of RS.

Results

All the scores identified a similar group of patients with CLL in early stage with low‐, intermediate‐, and high‐risk progression. Discrimination was high and similar in all RS (c‐index = 0.74–0.79, area under the curve = 0.7–0.75), as well as calibration (p = .98) and parsimony, although CLL‐IPI showed the best results (Akaike information criterion = 441). A total of 34.4% of patients were categorized within the same RS and concordance was at least moderate between RS.

Conclusion

Moreover, the results suggest that IGHV2 may improve the accuracy of RS.
In‐Situ and Green Synthesis of Silk Fibroin‐Silver Nanoparticles Composite Microfibers for Enhanced Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Zhang Rui , Luo Dandan , Jaber Mohammad , Zhang Han , Kong Xiangdong
Published: September 2024

The antibacterial properties of modified silk fibroin microfibers (SF MFs) have been widely studied. Among various modifications, integration of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and SF MFs has garnered significant attention due to the broad‐spectrum antibacterial activities and long‐term antibacterial effect of Ag nanomaterials. However, the traditional introduction of reducing agents or other additives during the synthesis of Ag‐SF composite MFs potentially affects their structure and antibacterial properties. Facile, green and effective methods for the preparation of Ag‐SF MFs with enhanced antibacterial properties are therefore highly desired. In this study, Ag NPs were uniformly in‐situ deposited onto the optimized SF MFs by adjusting the pH and duration conditions under the guidance of green chemistry. The loaded Ag NPs have a good dispersibility and an average size of ~10 nm. The stability of SF MFs after the deposition of Ag NPs and the crystalline features of the loaded Ag NPs have been carefully investigated. Moreover, antibacterial experiments confirmed that Ag‐SF MFs exhibited superior antibacterial activities. After co‐incubating Ag‐SF MFs with L929 cells, the cell viability reached 90 %, demonstrating the great biocompatibility of the modified fibers. This green in‐situ synthetic method will promote the further medical use of Ag‐SF MFs in antibacterial fields.