bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of CCR9 β-chemokine receptor is modulated in thymocyte differentiation and is selectively maintained in CD8+ T cells from secondary lymphoid organs
Authors: Carramolino Laura , Zaballos Ángel , Kremer Leonor , Villares Ricardo , Martı́n Pilar , Ardavı́n Carlos , Martı́nez-A Carlos , Márquez Gabriel
Published: July 2002

Chemokines appear to have an important role in the seeding of lymphoid progenitors in the thymus, the regulation of the coordinated movements of the maturing T cells within this organ, and the egress of the resulting naive T cells to secondary lymphoid organs. CCR9, the specific receptor for the β-chemokine TECK/CCL25, is selectively expressed in thymus, lymph node, and spleen. Using a specific anti-CCR9 polyclonal antibody, K629, and a semiquantitative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction procedure, a detailed study of CCR9 expression in the thymus and secondary lymphoid organs was performed. The results show that CD4+CD8+ double-positive thymocytes have the highest CCR9 expression in thymus. Single-positive CD8+ thymocytes continue to express this receptor after abandoning the thymus as mature naive T cells, as suggested by the existence of a CD8+CD69lowCD62LhighCCR9+ cell subset. Consistent with this, CD8+lymphocytes from lymph nodes, spleen, and Peyer patches express a functional CCR9, as its expression correlates with migration in response to CCL25. Conversely, CD4+ thymocytes lose CCR9 before abandoning the thymus, and CD4+ T cells from secondary lymphoid organs also lack CCR9 expression. Analysis of CCR9 expression in thymocytes from mice of different ages showed that CCR9 levels are affected by age, as this receptor is more abundant, and its response to CCL25 is more potent in newborn animals. Collectively, these results suggest that CCR9 has a role in thymocyte development throughout murine life, with clear differences between the CD4+ and CD8+ lineages.
Granulocyte–colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF)–primed allogeneic bone marrow: significantly less graft-versus-host disease and comparable engraftment to G-CSF–mobilized peripheral blood stem cells
Authors: Morton James , Hutchins Cheryl , Durrant Simon
Published: July 2002

Prospective studies have shown rapid engraftment using granulocyte–colony-stimulating factor–mobilized peripheral blood stem cells (G-PBSCs) for allogeneic transplantation, though the risks for graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) may be increased. It was hypothesized that the use of G-CSF to prime bone marrow (G-BM) would allow rapid engraftment without increased risk for GVHD compared with G-PBSC. Patients were randomized to receive G-BM or G-PBSCs for allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The study was designed (β < .8) to detect a difference in the incidence of chronic GVHD of 33% (α < .05). The plan was to recruit 100 patients and to conduct an interim analysis when the 6-month follow-up point was reached for the first 50 patients. Fifty-seven consecutive patients were recruited (G-BM, n = 28; G-PBSC, n = 29). Patients in the G-PBSC group received 3-fold more CD34+ and 9-fold more CD3+ cells. Median times to neutrophil (G-BM, 16 days; G-PBSC, 14 days; P < .1) and platelet engraftment (G-BM, 14 days; G-PBSC, 12 days; P < .1) were similar. The use of G-PBSC was associated with steroid refractory acute GVHD (G-BM, 0%; G-PBSC, 32%; P < .001), chronic GVHD (G-BM, 22%; G-PBSC, 80%; P < .02), and prolonged requirement for immunosuppressive therapy (G-BM, 173 days; G-PBSC, 680 days;P < .009). Survival was similar for the 2 groups. Compared with G-PBSC, the use of G-BM resulted in comparable engraftment, reduced severity of acute GVHD, and less subsequent chronic GVHD.
Regulation of hypoxia-inducible factor is preserved in the absence of a functioning mitochondrial respiratory chain
Authors: Vaux Emma C. , Metzen Eric , Yeates Kay M. , Ratcliffe Peter J.
Published: July 2002

Hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) mediates a large number of transcriptional responses to hypoxia and has an important role in processes that include angiogenesis and erythropoiesis. The HIF DNA binding complex consists of 2 basic-helix-loop-helix PAS proteins designated α and β subunits. Regulation occurs principally through the α subunits, which are stabilized and activated in hypoxia. Although substantial evidence implicates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the regulatory process, the precise mechanisms remain unclear. Mitochondria are an important source of ROS, and in one model it has been proposed that hypoxia increases the generation of ROS at complex III in the mitochondrion and that this signal acts through a transduction pathway to stabilize HIF-1α and to activate HIF. To test this model the induction of the HIF-1α subunit and the HIF target gene, glucose-transporter-1, was examined in a variety of mutant cells that lacked mitochondrial DNA (ρ0) or had other genetic defects in mitochondrial respiration. HIF induction by hypoxia was essentially normal in all cells tested. Hydrogen peroxide production was measured by the luminol/peroxidase method and found to be reduced in ρ0 versus wild-type cells and reduced by hypoxia in both ρ0 and wild-type cells. Furthermore, concentrations of rotenone that maximally inhibited respiration did not affect HIF activation by hypoxia. These data do not support the model outlined above and indicate that a functional respiratory chain is not necessary for the regulation of HIF by oxygen.
Stromal cells expressing ephrin-B2 promote the growth and sprouting of ephrin-B2+ endothelial cells
Authors: Zhang Xiu-Qin , Takakura Nobuyuki , Oike Yuichi , Inada Tomohisa , Gale Nicholas W. , Yancopoulos George D. , Suda Toshio
Published: July 2002

Ephrin-B2 is a transmembrane ligand that is specifically expressed on arterial endothelial cells (ECs) and surrounding cells and interacts with multiple EphB class receptors. Conversely, EphB4, a specific receptor for ephrin-B2, is expressed on venous ECs, and both ephrin-B2 and EphB4 play essential roles in vascular development. The bidirectional signals between EphB4 and ephrin-B2 are thought to be specific for the interaction between arteries and veins and to regulate cell mixing and the making of particular boundaries. However, the molecular mechanism during vasculogenesis and angiogenesis remains unclear. Manipulative functional studies were performed on these proteins in an endothelial cell system. Using in vitro stromal cells (OP9 cells) and a paraaortic splanchnopleura (P-Sp) coculture system, these studies found that the stromal cells expressing ephrin-B2 promoted vascular network formation and ephrin-B2+ EC proliferation and that they also induced the recruitment and proliferation of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA)–positive cells. Stromal cells expressing EphB4 inhibited vascular network formation, ephrin-B2+ EC proliferation, and α-SMA+ cell recruitment and proliferation. Thus, these data suggest that ephrin-B2 and EphB4 mediate reciprocal interactions between arterial and venous ECs and surrounding cells to form each characteristic vessel.
Heme is a potent inducer of inflammation in mice and is counteracted by heme oxygenase
Authors: Wagener Frank A. D. T. G. , Eggert Andreas , Boerman Otto C. , Oyen Wim J. G. , Verhofstad Albert , Abraham Nader G. , Adema Gosse , van Kooyk Yvette , de Witte Theo , Figdor Carl G.
Published: July 2002

Various pathologic conditions, such as hemorrhage, hemolysis and cell injury, are characterized by the release of large amounts of heme. Recently, it was demonstrated that heme oxygenase (HO), the heme-degrading enzyme, and heme are able to modulate adhesion molecule expression in vitro. In the present study, the effects of heme and HO on inflammation in mice were analyzed by monitoring the biodistribution of radiolabeled liposomes and leukocytes in conjunction with immunohistochemistry. Small liposomes accumulate in inflamed tissues by diffusion because of locally enhanced vascular permeability, whereas leukocytes actively migrate into inflammatory areas through specific adhesive interactions with the endothelium and chemotaxis. Exposure to heme resulted in a dramatic increase in liposome accumulation in the pancreas, but also intestines, liver, and spleen exhibited significantly increased vascular permeability. Similarly, intravenously administered heme caused an enhanced influx of radiolabeled leukocytes into these organs. Immunohistochemical analysis showed differential up-regulation of the adhesion molecules ICAM-1, P-selectin, and fibronectin in liver and pancreas in heme-treated animals. Heme-induced adhesive properties were accompanied by a massive influx of granulocytes into these inflamed tissues, suggesting an important contribution to the pathogenesis of inflammatory processes. Moreover, inhibition of HO activity exacerbated heme-induced granulocyte infiltration. Here it is demonstrated for the first time that heme induces increased vascular permeability, adhesion molecule expression, and leukocyte recruitment in vivo, whereas HO antagonizes heme-induced inflammation possibly through the down-modulation of adhesion molecules.
Differential expression and phosphorylation of distinct STAT3 proteins during granulocytic differentiation
Authors: Hevehan Diane L. , Miller William M. , Papoutsakis Eleftherios T.
Published: July 2002

External stimuli act in concert with intracellular signals to regulate a cell's genetic program, activating genes important in granulocytic lineage commitment, proliferation, and maturation. Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a transcription factor, has been implicated in mediating granulocytic differentiation. We have examined the role of STAT3 as a physiologic mediator of granulocytic kinetics. Distinct isoforms—the long form STAT3α, the truncated forms STAT3β and STAT3γ, and a putative novel form STAT3δ—were expressed and activated in a maturation stage–specific manner. With the progression of differentiation, the ratio of isoforms shifted from predominantly STAT3α to STAT3β. The kinetics of STAT3γ, generated through proteolytic cleavage of STAT3α, coincided with but were inverse to those of STAT3α. STAT3δ was expressed at low levels and decreased with differentiation but was preferentially phosphorylated during an intermediate stage of maturation. Under different culture conditions (pH, O2 tension [pO2], IL-3), we found that the expression and phosphorylation status of the different STAT3 isoforms displayed unique kinetic patterns that correlated with the effects on granulocyte differentiation. The evidence suggests that signals triggered by pH, pO2, and IL-3 each converge on STAT3 through independent mechanisms, exploiting the flexibility granted by the diversity in expression and phosphorylation of the different STAT3 isoforms, to regulate distinct granulocytic cell responses. The selective expression of STAT3 isoforms and their activation is a major determinant of granulocytic cell development and provides a molecular basis for evaluating the effects of various environmental factors on the STAT3-mediated signaling pathway.
Macroscopic Evaluation of Rectal Cancer Resection Specimen: Clinical Significance of the Pathologist in Quality Control
Authors: Nagtegaal Iris D. , van de Velde Cornelis J.H. , van der Worp Erik , Kapiteijn Ellen , Quirke Phil , van Krieken J. Han J.M. ,   the Pathology Review Committee for the Cooperative Clinical Investigators of the Dutch Colorectal Cancer Group
Published: July 2002

PURPOSE: Quality assessment and assurance are important issues in modern health care. For the evaluation of surgical procedures, there are indirect parameters such as complication, recurrence, and survival rates. These parameters are of limited value for the individual surgeon, and there is an obvious need for direct parameters. We have evaluated criteria by which pathologists can judge the quality or completeness of the resection specimen in a randomized trial for rectal cancer.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The pathology reports of all patients entered onto a Dutch multicenter randomized trial were reviewed. All participating pathologists had been instructed by workshops and videos in order to obtain standardized pathology work-up. A three-tiered classification was applied to assess completeness of the total mesorectal excision (TME). Prognostic value of this classification was tested using log-rank analysis of Kaplan-Meier survival curves using the data of all patients who did not receive any adjuvant treatment.

RESULTS: Included were 180 patients. In 24% (n = 43), the mesorectum was incomplete. Patients in this group had an increased risk for local and distant recurrence, 36.1% v 20.3% recurrence in the group with a complete mesorectum (P = .02). Follow-up is too short to observe an effect on survival rates.

CONCLUSION: A patient’s prognosis is predicted by applying a classification of macroscopic completeness on a rectal resection specimen. We conclude that pathologists are able to judge the quality of TME for rectal cancer. With this direct interdisciplinary assessment instrument, we establish a new role of the pathologist in quality control.
Even After CPR, Surviving Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Might Be Influenced by Race, Sex
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: September 2024

This Medical News article discusses research that found Black individuals and women are less likely to survive after receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest than White people or men.
SIK2: A Novel Negative Feedback Regulator of FGF2 Signaling
Authors: Kuser‐Abali Gamze , Ugurlu‐Bayarslan Asli , Yilmaz Yeliz , Ozcan Ferruh , Karaer Funda , Bugra Kuyas
Published: September 2024

A wide range of cells respond to fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) by proliferation via activation of the Ras/ERK1/2 pathway. In this study, the potential involvement of salt inducible kinase SIK2) in this cascade within retinal Müller glia is explored. It is found that SIK2 phosphorylation status and activity are modulated in an FGF2‐dependent manner, possibly via ERK1/2. With SIK2 downregulation, enhanced ERK1/2 activation with delayed attenuation and increased cell proliferation is observed, while SIK2 overexpression hampers FGF2‐dependent ERK1/2 activation. In vitro kinase and site‐directed mutagenesis studies indicate that SIK2 targets the pathway element GRB2‐associated‐binding protein 1 (Gab1) on Ser266. This phosphorylation event weakens Gab1 interactions with its partners growth factor receptor‐bound protein 2 (Grb2) and Src homology region 2 domain containing phosphatase 2 (Shp2). Collectively, these results suggest that during FGF2‐dependent proliferation process ERK1/2‐mediated activation of SIK2 targets Gab1, resulting in downregulation of the Ras/ERK1/2 cascade in a feedback loop.
Gemcitabine Resistant Triple Negative Breast Tumor Derived Mesoporous Silicon Nanovaccine Overcame Drug Resistance
Authors: Pan Wen , Wang Yangyi , Tian Shaomin , Ma Xiaopeng , Min Yuanzeng
Published: September 2024

Drug resistance presents a significant challenge in cancer treatment. By far, there is no effective method to solve this issue. Therapeutic cancer vaccine, which uses tumor antigens, e.g. neoantigens, to activate the hosts’ immune system to eliminate tumor cells, may be effective for overcoming tumor resistance. So, it is hypothesized that resistant tumors may have much more abundant tumor mutations in comparison to naive tumors, and the corresponding vaccine may overcome drug resistance. The proteomics data confirmes that cell lysates from resistant tumors to gemcitabine (GEM), a model drug, contain abundant tumor‐associated antigens, tumor‐specific antigens, damage‐associated molecular patterns, and neoantigens, which can activate immune responses. Herein, to enhance antigen presentation, a mesoporous silicon nanovaccine is developed, which is loaded with antigens from GEM treated GEM‐resistant triple‐negative breast cancer 4T1 cells. When mice bearing GEM‐resistant tumors are vaccinated, the nanovaccine displays efficacy against GEM‐resistant tumors. Moreover, when combined with immunotherapy, the efficacy of the developed nanovaccine on GEM‐resistant tumors are further improved by increasing intratumoral T‐cell infiltrations. The work presents a new strategy for overcoming drug resistance using cancer nanovaccine, which broadens clinical application prospects.
Formation of Core‐Shell Ir@TiO2 Nanoparticles through Hydrogen Treatment as Acidic Oxygen Evolution Reaction Catalysts
Authors: Park Jihyeon , Liu Eric , Angizi Shayan , Abdellah Ahmed , Kirici Ecem Yelekli , Higgins Drew
Published: September 2024

The transition to a sustainable energy economy requires the availability of renewably produced hydrogen through proton exchange membrane water electrolysis. The techno‐economic viability of this technology requires addressing materials challenges regarding the lack of active and stable catalysts for the electrochemical oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acidic conditions. Herein, core‐shell iridium/titanium dioxide (Core‐shell Ir@TiO2) catalysts for acidic OER are synthesized through a polyol method to create TiO2 nanoparticles, followed by urea reduction with Ir, and subsequent annealing in hydrogen. The formation process of the core‐shell structure is observed through in situ environmental transmission electron microscopy under annealing conditions. Ir segregation occurred from an initially blended mixed metal oxide structure to a core‐shell configuration at 500 °C. Core‐shell Ir@TiO2 showed a three‐fold higher stability number (i.e., S‐number) than commercial IrOx (3.34 × 106 versus 1.02 × 106). Furthermore, an Ir‐mass normalized activity of 1,880 A gIr−1 at 1.7 V versus RHE is measured for Core‐shell Ir@TiO2, compared to 624 A gIr−1 for commercial IrOx. The developed synthetic route to prepare a composite structure with a TiO2 core and Ir‐based shell has enabled an Ir content reduction without a compromise in activity and stability, thus offering a promising avenue for developing next‐generation catalysts tailored for acidic water electrolysis.
Zincophilic Design for Highly Stable and Dendrite‐Free Zinc Metal Anodes in Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Jingjing , Mao Longhua , Xia Zhigang , Fan Meiqiang , Deng Yaping , Chen Zhongwei
Published: September 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries represent a highly promising next‐generation electrochemical energy storage system because of their safety, environmental friendliness, resource abundance, and simple assembly conditions. However, the formation and growth of zinc dendrites on zinc anode seriously hinder the practical application of zinc‐ion batteries. Zincophilic design, which enables the uniform zinc nucleation/deposition, offers an effective solution to achieve dendrite‐free zinc anodes. Despite significant progress in the field of zincophilic design, the research in this field currently lacks clear analysis and guidance. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current research status of zincophilic design and the mechanism for dendrite‐free zinc anode from three aspects: construction of zinc anode zincophilic layers, addition of zincophilic additives in electrolyte, and construction of 3D zincophilic host. Moreover, the challenges facing the industrialization and commercialization of zinc‐ion batteries in the further are briefly discussed.
Synergistic Engineering of Electron‐Enriched Nickel Sites for Highly Efficient Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to C2H6
Authors: Xu Cui , Yu Sha , Zhang Mengyang , Zhan Xinyue , Jiang Shuai , Wang Suwen , Liu Guihao , Ren Jing , Sun Xiaoliang , Wang Yun , Peng Hui‐Qing , Liu Bin , Zhang Wenjun , Song Yu‐Fei
Published: September 2024

The production of multi‐carbon compounds through CO2 photoreduction (CO2PR) holds great promise but faces challenges due to high kinetic barriers and the sluggish process of C‐C coupling. Overcoming these obstacles requires fine engineering of active sites. In this study, Ni active sites are engineered through the synergistic effect of metal‐oxo cluster (Mo7O246−) and hydroxyl vacancy (VOH). In contrast to the Ni sites unmodified with Mo7O246− and VOH, which are unable to produce multi‐carbon products, the constructed electron‐enriched Ni active sites exhibit an impressive selectivity of up to 43.02% and a high yield rate of 246.70 µmol g−1 h−1 for C2H6, which represent one of the best results for CO2PR to C2H6. Through a comprehensive investigation involving operando experiments and theoretical simulations, hydroxyl vacancy and the formed Mo─O─Ni bonds is demonstrated due to the filling of hydroxyl vacancies with oxygen atoms from Mo7O246− synergistically constructed electron‐rich Ni sites. Such Ni sites efficiently catalyze CO2 conversion to C2H6 by enhancing the adsorption of *CO, promoting subsequent hydrogenation, and enabling low energy barriers for CO2 hydrogenation to *OCOH and the coupling of *CH3 intermediates. This study provides deeper insights into the photocatalytic process, highlighting the significance of tailored active sites for efficient CO2 conversion.
Weakening the Space Charge Layer Effect Through Tethered Anion Electrolyte and Piezoelectric Effect Toward Ultra‐Stable Zinc Anode
Authors: Wen Zhipeng , Hu Zuyang , Wang Xiangwen , Zhang Yufei , Du Wencheng , Ye Minghui , Tang Yongchao , Liu Xiaoqing , Li Cheng Chao
Published: September 2024

The space charge layer (SCL) dilemma, caused by mobile anion concentration gradient and the rapid consumption of cations, is the fundamental reason for the generation of zinc dendrites, especially under high‐rate discharge conditions. To address the issue, a physical (PbTiO3)/chemical (AMPS‐Zn) barrier is designed to construct stable zinc ion flow and disrupt the gradient of anion concentration by coupling the ferroelectric effect with tethered anion electrolyte. The ferroelectric materials PbTiO3 with extreme‐high piezoelectric constant can spontaneously generate an internal electric field to accelerate the movement of zinc ions, and the polyanionic polymer AMPS‐Zn can repel mobile anions and disrupt the anions concentration gradient by tethering anions. Through numerical simulations and analyses, it is discovered that a high Zn2+ transference number can effectively weaken the SCL, thus suppressing the occurrence of zinc dendrites and parasitic side reactions. Consequently, an asymmetric cell using the PbTiO3@Zn demonstrates a reversible plating/stripping performance for 2900 h, and an asymmetric cell reaches a state‐of‐the‐art runtime of 3450 h with a high average Coulombic efficiency of 99.98%. Furthermore, the PbTiO3@Zn/I2 battery demonstrated an impressive capacity retention rate of 84.0% over 65000 cycles by employing a slender Zn anode.
Monolithic Integration of Full‐Color Microdisplay Screen with Sub‐5 µm Quantum‐Dot Pixels
Authors: Huang Jianhua , Li Ziwei , Zhu Youliang , Yang Liuli , Lin Xiao , Li Yi , Wang Yizhe , Wang Yazhou , Fu Yi , Xu Weidong , Huang Ming , Li Dong , Pan Anlian
Published: September 2024

Monolithic integration of color‐conversion materials onto blue‐backlight micro‐light‐emitting‐diodes (micro‐LEDs) has emerged as a promising strategy for achieving full‐color microdisplay devices. However, this approach still encounters challenges such as the blue‐backlight leakage and the poor fabrication yield rate due to unsatisfied quantum dot (QD) material and fabrication process. Here, the monolithic integration of 0.39‐inch micro‐display screens displaying colorful pictures and videos are demonstrated, which are enabled by creating interfacial chemical bonds for wafer‐scale adhesion of sub‐5 µm QD‐pixels on blue‐backlight micro‐LED wafer. The ligand molecule with chlorosulfonyl and silane groups is selected as the synthesis ligand and surface treatment material, facilitating the preparation of high‐efficiency QD photoresist and the formation of robust chemical bonds for pixel integration. This is a leading record in micro‐display devices achieving the highest brightness larger than 400 thousand nits, the ultrahigh resolution of 3300 PPI, the wide color gamut of 130.4% NTSC, and the ultimate performance of service life exceeding 1000 h. These results extend the mature integrated circuit technique into the manufacture of micro‐display device, which also lead the road of industrialization process of full‐color micro‐LEDs.
Ni‐Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction Toward Ethanol
Authors: Wang Ting , Duan Xinyi , Bai Rui , Li Haoyang , Qin Chen , Zhang Jian , Duan Zhiyao , Chen Kai‐Jie , Pan Fuping
Published: September 2024

The electroreduction of CO2 offers a sustainable route to generate synthetic fuels. Cu‐based catalysts have been developed to produce value‐added C2+ alcohols; however, the limited understanding of complex C−C coupling and reaction pathway hinders the development of efficient CO2‐to‐C2+ alcohols catalysts. Herein, a Cu‐free, highly mesoporous NiO catalyst, derived from the microphase separation of a block copolymer, is reported, which achieves selective CO2 reduction toward ethanol with a Faradaic efficiency of 75.2% at −0.6 V versus RHE. The dense mesopores create a favorable local reaction environment with CO2‐rich and H2O‐deficient interfaces, suppressing hydrogen evolution and maximizing catalytic activity of NiO for CO2 reduction. Importantly, the C1‐feeding experiments, in situ spectroscopy, and theoretical calculations consistently show that the direct coupling of *CO2 and *COOH is responsible for C−C bond formation on NiO, and subsequent reduction of *CO2‐COOH to ethanol is energetically facile through the *COCOH and *OC2H5 pathway. The unconventional C−C coupling mechanism on NiO, in contrast to the *CO dimerization on Cu, is triggered by strong CO2 adsorption on the polarized Ni2+‐O2− sites. The work not only demonstrates a highly selective Cu‐free Ni‐based alternative for CO2‐to‐C2+ alcohols transformation but also provides a new perspective on C−C coupling toward C2+ synthesis.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performances of Hard Carbon via Nickel‐Metal Catalyzed Surface Conversion Graphitic Crystallites
Authors: Yuan Junsheng , Li Muxuan , Jin Mengjing , Wang Yanting , Sun Guowen , Song Jianqiao , Zhou Jinyuan , Ni Xia , Pan Xiaojun
Published: September 2024

The surface of hard carbon is rich in micropores, disordered graphene layers, defects, and various functional groups that can serve as reactive sites. However, these reaction sites are non‐equivalent sites both electronically and geometrically. Consequently, the solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formed on the hard carbon electrode exhibits instability in the organic electrolyte system, resulting in a continuous depletion of LiPF6 within the electrolyte, thereby compromising its cycling stability. Herein, the formation of stable SEI is induced by modulating the surface structure of hard carbon fibers. The transition metal nickel is utilized to convert the disordered structure on the surface of hard carbon fibers into graphitic crystallites at high temperatures. This also reduces the functional groups, micropores, defects, and disordered graphene layers on the surface of the hard carbon fibers, making the active sites equiv. Meanwhile, the highly active graphene edges are uniformly exposed as nucleation sites on the fibers surface, which induces the formation of a uniform and dense SEI and inhibits the continuous decomposition of LiPF6, thus improving the rate performance and cycling stability of the hard carbon.
Multi‐Structural and Biodegradable Humidity Sensors with Enhanced Surface Hydrophilicity
Authors: Brito‐Pereira Ricardo , Policia Rita , Macedo André S. , Tubio Carmen R , Borges Joel , Lanceros‐Mendez Senentxu
Published: September 2024

The increasing environmental impact from electronic waste (e‐waste) has prompted research into sustainable materials for biodegradable and transient electronics. Although some progress has been achieved, further improvement in terms of performance and sustainability is needed. This study introduces a humidity sensor composed of biodegradable poly(D,L‐lactide‐co‐glycolide acid) (PDLG) in novel and multi‐structural morphologies. It highlights the role of the sensors’ microscopic structural features in their performance, particularly in humidity sensitivity, to maximize the retention and detection of water molecules. Techniques such as electrospinning and electrospray are used to achieve specific fiber and sphere morphologies. Oxygen plasma treatments tuned their surface hydrophilicity, enhancing moisture interaction. Physicochemical characterization revealed that plasma‐treated morphologies lost up to 93% of their weight after six weeks, demonstrating high sensor degradation. Functional tests showed that the sphere‐based sensor exhibited low hysteresis (0.19%), high sensitivity (3.9 × 10⁷ MΩ/% RH), excellent repeatability, and fast response time (0.43s) in the 60−95% RH range. Additionally, NaCl functionalization further improved detection sensitivity and extended the detection range down to 30% RH. The biodegradable nature of the PDLG sensors allows their natural decomposition into eco‐friendly by‐products, minimizing their environmental impact, and addressing the environmental challenges associated with e‐waste.
A Universal Synthesis of Single‐Atom Catalysts via Operando Bond Formation Driven by Electricity
Authors: Zhan Xinyu , Zhang Libing , Choi Junyoung , Tan Xinyi , Hong Song , Wu Tai‐Sing , Xiong Pei , Soo Yun‐Liang , Hao Leiduan , Li Molly Meng‐Jung , Xu Liang , Robertson Alex W. , Jung Yousung , Sun Xiaofu , Sun Zhenyu
Published: September 2024

Single‐atom catalysts (SACs), featuring highly uniform active sites, tunable coordination environments, and synergistic effects with support, have emerged as one of the most efficient catalysts for various reactions, particularly for electrochemical CO2 reduction (ECR). However, the scalability of SACs is restricted due to the limited choice of available support and problems that emerge when preparing SACs by thermal deposition. Here, an in situ reconstruction method for preparing SACs is developed with a variety of atomic sites, including nickel, cadmium, cobalt, and magnesium. Driven by electricity, different oxygen‐containing metal precursors, such as MOF‐74 and metal oxides, are directly atomized onto nitrogen‐doped carbon (NC) supports, yielding SACs with variable metal active sites and coordination structures. The electrochemical force facilitates the in situ generation of bonds between the metal and the supports without the need for additional complex steps. A series of MNxOy (M denotes metal) SACs on NC have been synthesized and utilized for ECR. Among these, NiNxOy SACs using Ni‐MOF‐74 as a metal precursor exhibit excellent ECR performance. This universal and general SAC synthesis strategy at room temperature is simpler than most reported synthesis methods to date, providing practical guidance for the design of the next generation of high‐performance SACs.
SKAP1 Expression in Cancer Cells Enhances Colon Tumor Growth and Impairs Cytotoxic Immunity by Promoting Neutrophil Extracellular Trap Formation via the NFATc1/CXCL8 Axis
Authors: Gao Jian , Liu Jun , Lu Jilin , Zhang Xiaofei , Zhang Wei , Li Qian , Cai Jiayi , Li Mengjun , Gan Yu , Tang Yifan , Wu Shuangjie
Published: September 2024

The mechanisms underlying the development and progression of colon cancer are not fully understood. Herein, Src kinase associated phosphoprotein 1 (SKAP1), an immune cell adaptor, is identified as a novel colon cancer‐related gene. SKAP1 expression is significantly increased in colon cancer cells. High SKAP1 levels are independently predictive of poor survival in patients with colon cancer. Notably, SKAP1 expression in colon cancer cells exerted a significant tumor‐promoting effect in vivo rather than in vitro. Screening of tumor‐infiltrating immune cells revealed the involvement of neutrophils in SKAP1‐induced colon tumor promotion. Enhanced formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) is found to be a key downstream event that contributed to the pro‐tumor role of SKAP1. In colon cancer cells, SKAP1 increased the expression of C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8) via nuclear factor of activated T cells c1 (NFATc1). The blockade of CXCL8 or NFATc1 largely attenuated neutrophil infiltration, NET formation, and tumor promotion induced by SKAP1. Furthermore, inhibiting SKAP1‐induced NET significantly enhanced the antitumor efficiency of adoptive natural killer cell therapy in colon tumor models. In conclusion, SKAP1 significantly promotes colon cancer growth via the cancer cell/neutrophil NFATc1/CXCL8/NET axis, suggesting that SKAP1 is a potential target for colon cancer therapy.
Visible‐Light‐Induced Hydrogen Generation from Mixtures of Hydrogen Boride Nanosheets and Phenanthroline Molecules
Authors: Takeshita Jumpei , Tsurugi Hayato , Mauliana Andi , Yamaguchi Akira , Kondo Takahiro , Miyauchi Masahiro
Published: September 2024

Hydrogen boride (HB) nanosheets are recognized as a safe and lightweight hydrogen carrier, yet their hydrogen (H2) generation technique has been limited. In the present study, nitrogen‐containing organic heterocycles are mixed with HB nanosheets in acetonitrile solution for visible‐light‐driven H2 generation. After exploring various nitrogen‐containing heterocycles, the mixture of 1,10‐phenanthroline molecules (Phens) and HB nanosheets exhibited significant H2 generation even under visible light irradiation. The quantum efficiency for H2 generation of the mixture of HB nanosheets and Phens is 0.6%. Based on spectroscopic and electrochemical analyses and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, it is determined that radical species generated from Phens with electrons and protons donated by HB nanosheets are responsive to visible light for H2 generation. The HB nanosheets/Phens mixture presented in this study can generate H2 using renewable energy sources such as sunlight without the need for complex electrochemical systems or heating mechanisms and is expected to serve as a lightweight hydrogen storage/release system.
Layer‐by‐Layer All‐Polymer Solar Cells Approaching 19% with Dual‐Donor Modulation of an Interpenetrating Network
Authors: Dou Yuejia , Zhang Jiabin , Zhong Zuiyi , Zhu Chang , Chen Zijian , Zhang Kai , Huang Fei
Published: September 2024

All‐polymer systems are promising for commercial applications because the lower diffusivity of polymers helps to inhibit the large‐scaled phase separation and obtain excellent stability. Achieving a fine‐tuned morphology of the active layer with an appropriate vertical phase has long been a major goal in obtaining efficient all‐polymer solar cells (all‐PSCs). Herein, through the synergistic effect of layer‐by‐layer (LBL) structure and dual donor strategy, high performance and stable all‐PSCs are prepared by constructing an interpenetrating network. The introduction of the third component PTzBI‐dF suppresses excessive aggregation and reduces exciton recombination. The formation of a favorable p‐i‐n structure helps to adjust the vertical phase distribution and improve stability. Ultimately, through the fine optimization, PBQx‐T‐Cl:PTzBI‐dF/PY‐IT achieves a high PCE of 18.83%. This research demonstrates a simple and effective way to construct high‐performance OSCs by desirable active layer morphology and vertical phase distribution.
Predicting spatiotemporal patterns of productivity and grazing from multispectral data using neural network analysis based on system complexity
Authors: Ashworth A. J. , Avila A. , Smith H. , Winzeler T. E. , Owens P. , Flynn C. , O'Brien P. , Philipp D. , Su J.
Published: September 2024

Remote sensing tools, along with Global Navigation Satellite System cattle collars and digital soil maps, may help elucidate spatiotemporal relationships among soils, terrain, forages, and animals. However, standard computational procedures preclude systems‐level evaluations across this continuum due to data inoperability and processing limitations. Deep learning, a subset of neural network, may elucidate efficiency of livestock production and linkages within the livestock‐grazing environment. Consequently, we applied deep learning to environmental remote sensing data to (1) develop predictive models for yield and forage nutrition based on vegetation indices and (2) at a pixel‐level (per 55 m2), identify how grazing is linked to soil properties, forage growth and nutrition, and terrain attributes in silvopasture and pasture‐only systems. Remotely sensed data rapidly and non‐destructively estimated herbage mass and nutritive value for enhanced net and primary productivity management in livestock and grazing systems. Cattle grazed big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii ‘Vitman’) with 182% greater frequency than orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.) in the pasture‐only system. Real‐time estimates of vegetative bands may assist in predicting grazing pressure for more efficient pasture resource management. Cattle grazing followed distinct soil‐landscape patterns, namely reduced cattle grazing preference occurred in areas of water accumulation, which highlights linkages among terrain, soil‐water movement, soil properties, forage nutrition, and animal grazing response spatially and temporally. Results from this study could be scaled up to improve grazing management among the largest land‐use category in the United States, that is, grasslands, which would allow for sustainable intensification of forage‐based livestock production to meet growing demands for environmentally responsible protein.
Assessing the Impacts of Compost‐Bedded Pack Barns on the Productive Efficiency of Brazilian Dairy Farms
Authors: Ferreira Marcelo Dias Paes , Simões Andre Rozemberg Peixoto , Daniel Lindomar Pegorini , Nicholson Charles Frederick
Published: September 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate differences in the technical efficiency of alternative milk production systems on Brazilian farms. Using a panel from 2014 to 2021 (1117 observations of 383 dairy farms) we compare the technical efficiency of more recently adopted Compost‐bedded Pack Barns (CPB) with that of Semi‐confinement (SC), and Unstructured confinement (UNS) systems. A stochastic frontier was estimated by a Generalized True Random Effects to assess the relationship between technical efficiency and the production systems adopted, decompose efficiency into Transient (short‐term) and Persistent (long‐term) components, and control for unobserved heterogeneity. We found that farms using confined systems are more efficient than those using semi‐confined systems. The decomposition of the Overall Technical Efficiency in its Persistent and Transient components suggests that farmers can be more efficient when dealing with short‐term shocks than when deciding which system to use. The use of more capital‐intensive technologies such as CPB may provide opportunities to improve dairy farm profitability and productivity growth in Brazil.
Diagnostic Accuracy of a Custom Large Language Model on Rare Pediatric Disease Case Reports
Authors: Young Cameron C. , Enichen Ellie , Rivera Christian , Auger Corinne A. , Grant Nathan , Rao Arya , Succi Marc D.
Published: September 2024

Accurately diagnosing rare pediatric diseases frequently represent a clinical challenge due to their complex and unusual clinical presentations. Here, we explore the capabilities of three large language models (LLMs), GPT‐4, Gemini Pro, and a custom‐built LLM (GPT‐4 integrated with the Human Phenotype Ontology [GPT‐4 HPO]), by evaluating their diagnostic performance on 61 rare pediatric disease case reports. The performance of the LLMs were assessed for accuracy in identifying specific diagnoses, listing the correct diagnosis among a differential list, and broad disease categories. In addition, GPT‐4 HPO was tested on 100 general pediatrics case reports previously assessed on other LLMs to further validate its performance. The results indicated that GPT‐4 was able to predict the correct diagnosis with a diagnostic accuracy of 13.1%, whereas both GPT‐4 HPO and Gemini Pro had diagnostic accuracies of 8.2%. Further, GPT‐4 HPO showed an improved performance compared with the other two LLMs in identifying the correct diagnosis among its differential list and the broad disease category. Although these findings underscore the potential of LLMs for diagnostic support, particularly when enhanced with domain‐specific ontologies, they also stress the need for further improvement prior to integration into clinical practice.
Patient‐reported disease control versus overall symptom severity as global metrics of chronic rhinosinusitis disease status
Authors: Cotter Ryan A. , Garcia Jack T. , Alsayed Ahmed , Schneider Sven , Liu David T. , Eckl‐Dorna Julia , Houssein Firas A. , Boparai Robby S. , Parail Nikhil A. , Chu Matthew M. , Meier Josh C. , Alsaleh Saad , Phillips Katie M. , Sedaghat Ahmad R.
Published: September 2024

Background

Overall symptom severity (OSS) and patient‐reported chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) control are global measures of CRS identified as consensus, essential criteria for CRS disease control assessment. We sought to determine the functional relationship between these two metrics.

Methods

Using an international multicenter mixed‐methods design, 260 CRS patients were recruited. OSS score was measured using a visual analog scale. Patient‐reported CRS control was measured as “controlled,” “partly controlled,” and “uncontrolled.” Twelve participants underwent semi‐structured interviews to discuss OSS and patient‐reported CRS control.

Results

The majority of interviewed participants felt OSS and patient‐reported CRS control measured different constructs—while OSS only measured symptoms, patient‐reported CRS control was more global, including not only symptom severity but also concepts such as medication usage, activity impairment, and exacerbations. Nevertheless, OSS score was strongly correlated with (ρ = 0.67, p < 0.001) and highly predictive of patient‐reported CRS control. OSS score of >4 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8–4.2) had 74.7% sensitivity and 93.2% specificity in identifying patients reporting their CRS as not controlled. OSS score of >6.6 (95% CI: 4.1–7.1) had 77.0% sensitivity and 75.9% specificity in identifying patients reporting their CRS as uncontrolled. The 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test score was also predictive of patient‐reported CRS disease control but OSS was significantly more predictive.

Conclusions

Patients conceptually view patient‐reported CRS control as a more global measure that subsumes OSS. Quantitatively, however, OSS is highly correlated with patient‐reported CRS control, possibly reflecting their redundancy. For ease of use, we recommend patient‐reported CRS control be reflected by OSS <4 for controlled, 4 ≤ OSS < 7 for partly controlled, and OSS ≥7 for uncontrolled CRS.
In office sampling of eosinophil peroxidase to diagnose eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Callander Jacquelyn K. , Charbit Annabelle R. , Khanna Kritika , Fahy John V. , Tang Monica , Liegeois Maude , Pletcher Steven D. , Goldberg Andrew N. , Gurrola Jose G. , Murr Andrew H. , Butrymowicz Anna , Loftus Patricia A.
Published: September 2024

Background

Practical biomarkers for endotypic characterization of chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remain elusive, hindering clinical utility. Eosinophil peroxidase (EPX) is an enzyme released by activated eosinophils. The objective of this study was to evaluate a clinic EPX assay as a marker of eosinophilic CRS.

Methods

Subjects with and without CRS presenting to a tertiary care rhinology clinic were prospectively enrolled, and nasal cytology brushings were collected from the middle meatus during in‐clinic nasal endoscopy. ELISA assay was used to quantify EPX levels, and a customized multiplex immunoassay was used to quantify inflammatory cytokine mediators. Findings were correlated with clinical data.

Results

Forty‐two subjects were enrolled, including 31 CRS subjects and 11 controls. Median EPX levels were 125.0 ng/mL (standard deviation [SD] 1745.8) and 6.5 ng/mL (SD 99.0) for CRS group and controls, respectively (p = 0.003). EPX levels were associated with history of asthma (p = 0.015), allergies (p = 0.028), polyps (p = 0.0006), smell loss (p = 0.006), and systemic eosinophilia or elevated immunoglobulin E (p ≤ 0.0001). Twenty‐eight subjects from both the CRS and control groups had prior pathology for comparison, with histologic confirmation of local tissue eosinophilia (>10 eosinophils/hpf) in 11 subjects. This subgroup had a median EPX level of 967.5 ng/mL compared to 10.6 ng/mL in 17 subjects without local tissue eosinophilia (p = 0.0008). EPX levels were positively correlated to interleukin‐5 levels (p = 0.0005).

Conclusion

EPX levels can be measured via well‐tolerated in‐clinic collection of nasal mucus. EPX levels are associated with clinical markers of type 2 inflammation and tissue eosinophilia and may provide a valuable diagnostic tool to delineate eosinophilic CRS.
A Rationally Designed Azobenzene Photoswitch for DNA G‐Quadruplex Regulation in Live Cells
Authors: Dudek Marta , López‐Pacios Lucía , Sabouri Nasim , Nogueira Juan J. , Martinez‐Fernandez Lara , Deiana Marco
Published: September 2024

G‐quadruplex (G4) DNA structures are increasingly acknowledged as promising targets in cancer research, and the development of G4‐specific stabilizing compounds may lay a fundamental foundation in precision medicine for cancer treatment. Here, we propose a light‐responsive G4‐binder for precise modulation of drug activation, providing dynamic and spatiotemporal control over G4‐associated biological processes contributing to cancer cell death. We developed a specialized fluorinated azobenzene (AB) switch equipped with a quinoline unit and a positively charged carboxamide side chain, Q‐Azo4F‐C, designed for targeted binding to G4 structures within cells. Biophysical studies, combined with molecular dynamics simulations, provide insights into the unique coordination modes of the photoswitchable ligand in its trans and cis configurations when interacting with G4s. The observed variations in complexation processes between the two isomeric states in different cancer cell lines manifest in more than 25‐fold reversible cytotoxic activity. Immunostaining conducted with the structure‐specific G4 antibody (BG4), establishes a direct correlation between cytotoxicity and the varying extent of G4 induction regulated by the two isoforms. Finally, we demonstrate the photo‐driven reversible regulation of G4 structures in lung cancer cells by Q‐Azo4F‐C. Our findings highlight the potential of light‐responsive G4‐binders in advancing precision cancer therapy through dynamic control of G4‐mediated pathways.
Catalytic N‐Formylation of CO2 by Atomically Precise Au8Pd1(DPPF)42+ Clusters into a Two‐Dimensional Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Cai Xiao , Tian Yiqi , Wang Hao , Huang Shuangshuang , Liu Xu , Li Guangjun , Ding Weiping , Zhu Yan
Published: September 2024

By highly efficient ligand‐exchange strategy, atomically precise Au8Pd1(PPh3)82+ (PPh3=triphenylphosphine) cluster can be transformed into a Au8Pd1(DPPF)42+ (DPPF=1,1′‐bis(diphenylphosphino)ferrocene) cluster that can maintain the atomic‐packing structure but overcome the lability of Au8Pd1(PPh3)82+. Catalytic evaluation for the CO2 hydrogenation coupled with o‐phenylenediamine demonstrates that the Au8Pd1(DPPF)42+ catalyst can remarkably enhance both activity and stability compared to the Au8Pd1(PPh3)82+ catalyst. More notably, the direct construction of a two‐dimensional metal–organic framework (2D MOF) can be elaborately accomplished in the formylation process of o‐phenylenediamine, CO2 and H2 with zinc nitrate enabled by the Au8Pd1(DPPF)42+ catalyst. The 2D MOF further enables the capture and transformation of CO2 to combine in the organic synthesis with epoxides under mild conditions. This work provides opportunities for creating highly active cluster sites for the chemical recycling of CO2.