bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interstitial Boron Atoms in Pd Aerogel Selectively Switch the Pathway for Glycolic Acid Synthesis from Waste Plastics
Authors: Chen Junliang , Jiang Miaomiao , Zhang Fangzhou , Wang Li , Yang Jianping
Published: July 2024

Electro‐reforming of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) into valuable chemicals is garnering significant attention as it opens a mild avenue for waste resource utilization. However, achieving high activity and selectivity for valuable C2 products during ethylene glycol (EG) oxidation in PET hydrolysate on Pd electrocatalysts remains challenging. The strong interaction between Pd and carbonyl (*CO) intermediates leads to undesirable over‐oxidation and poisoning of Pd sites, which hinders the highly efficient C2 products production. Herein, a nonmetallic alloying strategy is employed to fabricate a Pd‐boron alloy aerogel (PdB), wherein B atoms are induced to regulate the electron structure and surface oxophilicity. This approach allows a remarkable mass activity of 6.71 A mgPd−1, glycolic acid (GA) Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 93.8%, and stable 100 h cyclic electrolysis. In situ experiments and density functional theory calculations reveal the contributions of B inserted in Pd lattice on highly effective EG‐to‐GA conversion. Interestingly, the heightened surface oxophilicity and regulated electronic structure by B incorporation weakened *CO intermediates adsorption and enhanced hydroxyl species affinity to accelerate oxidative *OH adspecies formation, thereby synergistically avoiding over‐oxidation and boosting GA synthesis. This work provides valuable insights for the rational design of high‐performance electrocatalysts for GA synthesis via an oxophilic B motifs incorporation strategy.
C−H Alkylation of N‐Benzyl Anilines via Visible‐Light‐Driven 1,5‐Hydrogen Atom Transfer (1,5‐HAT) of Hydroxamic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Liu Xingyu , Lv Guanghui , Xu Yanning , Ye Meiling , Chen Jian , Hou Jinyu , Guo Li , Yang Zhongzhen , Wu Yong
Published: July 2024

Here we reported the photo‐catalyzed C−H alkylation of pyridyl‐substituted N‐benzyl anilines through nitrogen‐centred radical 1,5‐hydrogen atom transfer. A broad range of methylpyridyl‐substituted aniline and hydroxylamine acid derivatives were successfully transformed into the corresponding products in moderate yields without adding any base and metal. This protocol features mild reaction conditions, a broad range of substrates, remarkable functional group tolerance and simple operation procedure.
Sustainable Development of Biodegradable Antimicrobial Electrospun Membranes for Active Food Packaging and Economic Analysis
Authors: Drago Emanuela , Campardelli Roberta , Perego Patrizia
Published: July 2024

Electrospinning is a much‐explored technique in the membrane fabrication field, particularly in active food packaging. Despite the widespread use of this technique, there remains a significant gap in the literature regarding the actual economic evaluation of the viability of biomaterials compared to traditional plastics. This study seeks to fill this gap by developing electrospun, vanillin‐loaded zein membranes to evaluate their efficacy in terms of antimicrobial activity, biodegradability, and economic viability. From a sustainability perspective, the newly developed membranes show an impressive ability to inhibit yeast growth by 75%, with complete degradation observed in only 7 days. This underscores their potential to mitigate environmental impact and promote environmentally friendly packaging solutions to reduce both plastic waste and food loss while maintaining safety and quality. However, the economic sustainability of these membranes is still an open challenge. It becomes clear that the main bottleneck does not lie in the innovative production technology, but rather in the prices of raw materials, particularly natural additives. This underscores the need for supportive measures from institutions to incentivize the transition to sustainable packaging alternatives and the importance of the full circularity concept. This work shows that achieving the European goal of zero plastic waste requires concrete efforts.
Water‐Induced Shape‐Locking Magnetic Robots
Authors: Lou He , Wang Yibin , Sheng Yifeng , Zhu He , Zhu Shiping , Yu Jiangfan , Zhang Qi
Published: July 2024

Untethered magnetic soft robots capable of performing adaptive locomotion and shape reconfiguration open up possibilities for various applications owing to their flexibility. However, magnetic soft robots are typically composed of soft materials with fixed modulus, making them unable to exert or withstand substantial forces, which limits the exploration of their new functionalities. Here, water‐induced, shape‐locking magnetic robots with magnetically controlled shape change and water‐induced shape‐locking are introduced. The water‐induced phase separation enables these robots to undergo a modulus transition from 1.78 MPa in the dry state to 410 MPa after hydration. Moreover, the body material's inherent self‐healing property enables the direct assembly of morphing structures and magnetic soft robots with complicated structures and magnetization profiles. These robots can be delivered through magnetic actuation and perform programmed tasks including supporting, blocking, and grasping by on‐demand deformation and subsequent water‐induced stiffening. Moreover, a water‐stiffening magnetic stent is developed, and its precise delivery and water‐induced shape‐locking are demonstrated in a vascular phantom. The combination of untethered delivery, on‐demand shape change, and water‐induced stiffening properties makes the proposed magnetic robots promising for biomedical applications.
Universal Copolymerization of Crosslinked Polyether Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Lei Chengjun , Zhou Tiankun , Zhang Mingjie , Liu Tingting , Xu Chen , Wang Rui , He Xin , Liang Xiao
Published: July 2024

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) are pivotal in advancing the practical implementation of all‐solid‐state batteries. Poly(1,3‐dioxane) (PDOL)‐based electrolytes have attracted significant attention due to the pseudo‐high conductivity achieved through sophisticated in situ polymerization methods; however, such PDOL‐based electrolytes present challenges of crystallization over time and monomers residual during processing. In this study, integrating LiTFSI and LiDFOB as a universal copolymerization strategy for developing high‐performance PDOL electrolytes with a wide range of epoxy crosslinkers is proposed. It is discovered that this approach leverages the protective effects of TFSI anions on the boron active center and catalyzes polymer chain growth via crosslinking. The homogenously crosslinked (benzene‐centered) PDOL electrolyte exhibits remarkable thermo‐mechanical stability (up to 100 °C), high ion migration number (tLi+ = 0.42), a wide electrochemical window (≈5.0 V vs Li+/Li), and high ionic conductivity (4.5×10−4 S cm−1). Notably, the crosslinked PDOL electrolyte is in the all‐solid‐state with minimal monomer/oligomer residual, exhibiting no crystallization during relaxation, delivering a robust performance in all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries.
Constructing Gradient Separator to Stabilize Bi‐electrodes Toward High‐Performance Zn Metal Batteries
Authors: Tian Penghui , Gao Yuliang , Huang Shifeng , Cao Yanjiao , Liu Zihan , Huo Yaodong , Li Mengjing , Gu Xiaojun , Wu Limin
Published: July 2024

Aqueous zinc (Zn) metal batteries have considerable potential as large‐scale energy storage systems. However, cathodic metal ions dissolution and anodic dendrite growth constrain their further development. Here, an ion gradient separator is proposed to stabilize the bi‐electrodes of Zn metal batteries. The results show that the constructed low Zn2+ concentration region in the separator helps the NH4V4O10 (NVO) model cathode to maintain good electrolyte wettability and form a N/ZnS/ZnF2‐rich cathode‐electrolyte interphase (CEI), exhibiting a low vanadium (V) dissolution behavior. Meanwhile, the high Zn2+ concentration region in the separator and the flexible solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) inhibit the dendrite growth and parasitic reactions of the Zn metal anode and further prevent the diffusion of V ions. As a proof‐of‐concept, the NVO||Zn battery with gradient separator can achieve 88.1% capacity retention even after cycling over 800 cycles at 1 A g−1, while the ordinary separator only maintains 14.8%. This work presents an innovative gradient separator strategy for achieving high‐performance Zn metal batteries and sheds light on other rechargeable batteries.
Promises of MOF‐Based and MOF‐Derived Materials for Electrocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Mamaghani Alireza Haghighat , Liu Jingwei , Zhang Zhen , Gao Rui , Wu Yuxuan , Li Haibo , Feng Ming , Chen Zhongwei
Published: July 2024

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction (ECR) powered by renewable electricity is a promising technology to mitigate carbon emissions and lessen the dependence on fossil fuels toward a carbon‐neutral energy cycle. Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) and their derivatives, due to their excellent intrinsic activity, have emerged as promising materials for the ECR to high‐demand products. However, challenges such as unsatisfactory energy efficiency, selectivity, and relatively low production rates hinder their industrial scalability. Here, a comprehensive and critical review is presented that summarizes the state‐of‐the‐art progress in MOF‐based and MOF‐derived CO2 electroreduction catalysts from design and functionality perspectives. The fundamentals of CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) over heterogeneous catalysts, reaction mechanisms, and key challenges faced by ECR are described first to establish a solid foundation for forthcoming in‐depth analyses. MOF's building blocks, properties, and shortcomings pertinent to ECR including low conductivity and stability, are systematically discussed. Moreover, comprehensive discussions are provided on MOF‐based and MOF‐derived catalysts design, fabrication, characterization, and CO2RR activity to pinpoint the intricate structure‐property‐performance relationship. Finally, promising recommendations are put forward for enhancing MOF electrocatalysts activity, selectivity, and durability. This work may serve as a guideline for developing high‐performance MOF‐related catalysts for CO2RR, benefiting researchers working in this growing and potentially game‐changing area.
Looming Detection in Complex Dynamic Visual Scenes by Interneuronal Coordination of Motion and Feature Pathways
Authors: Gu Bo , Feng Jianfeng , Song Zhuoyi
Published: July 2024

Detecting looming signals for collision avoidance encounters challenges in real‐world scenarios, where moving backgrounds can interfere as an agent navigates through complex natural environments. Remarkably, even insects with limited neural systems adeptly respond to looming stimuli while in motion at high speeds. Existing insect‐inspired looming detection models typically rely on either motion‐pathway or feature‐pathway signals, yet both are susceptible to dynamic visual scene interference. Coordinating interneuron signals from both pathways can enhance the looming detection performance under dynamic conditions. An artificial neural network is employed to construct a combined‐pathway model based on Drosophila anatomy. The model outperforms state‐of‐the‐art bio‐inspired looming‐detection models in tasks involving dynamic backgrounds, simulated by animated 2D‐moving natural scenes or recorded in reality when an unmanned aerial vehicle performs obstacle collision avoidance tasks. Notably, by combining neural anatomy architecture and appropriate multiobjective tasks, the model exhibits convergent neural dynamics with biological counterparts post‐training, offering network explanations and mechanistic insights. Specifically, a multiplicative interneuron operation enhances looming signal patterns and reduces background interferences, generalizing to more complex scenarios, such as AirSim 3D environments and real‐world situations. The work introduces testable biological hypotheses and a promising bioinspired solution for looming detection in dynamic visual environments.
Gastrointestinal manifestations in Williams syndrome: A prospective analysis of an adult and pediatric cohort
Authors: Boechler Michael , Fu Yi‐Ping , Raja Neelam , Ruiz‐Escobar Emily , Nimmagadda Likitha , Osgood Sharon , Levin Mark D. , Hadigan Colleen , Kozel Beth A.
Published: July 2024

Williams syndrome (WS) is a multi‐system condition caused by the deletion of 25–27 coding genes on human chromosome 7. Irritability, gastrointestinal (GI) reflux and slow growth are commonly reported in infants with WS, but less data exist regarding GI concerns in older children and adults with the condition. This study evaluates 62 individuals with WS (31 children aged 3–17, and 31 adults aged 18–62) as well as 36 pediatric and adult controls to assess current and historical rates of common GI symptoms. Data were evaluated using a regression model including age, sex, self‐reported race, and diagnosis. Symptoms including food intolerance, reflux, dysphagia, choking/gagging, vomiting, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, hematochezia, rectal prolapse, abdominal pain, and weight loss are more common in those with WS relative to controls. In addition, people with WS utilize more GI medications, specialty care, procedures, and supplemental feeds. Among those with WS, symptoms were present at similar rates in children and adults, except for diverticular disease, which was not noted until adulthood. GI symptoms are frequent in people with WS and serve as a significant source of morbidity.
Structure–function coupling reveals the brain hierarchical structure dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease: A multicenter study
Authors: Sun Yibao , Wang Pan , Zhao Kun , Chen Pindong , Qu Yida , Li Zhuangzhuang , Zhong Suyu , Zhou Bo , Lu Jie , Zhang Xi , Wang Dawei , Han Ying , Yao Hongxiang , Liu Yong
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative condition characterized by cognitive decline. To date, the specific dysfunction in the brain's hierarchical structure in AD remains unclear.

METHODS

We introduced the structural decoupling index (SDI), based on a multi‐site data set comprising functional and diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging data from 793 subjects, to assess their brain hierarchy.

RESULTS

Compared to normal controls (NCs), individuals with AD exhibited increased SDI within the posterior superior temporal sulcus, insular gyrus, precuneus, hippocampus, amygdala, postcentral gyrus, and cingulate gyrus; meanwhile, the patients with AD demonstrated decreased SDI in the frontal lobe. The SDI in those regions also showed a significant correlation with cognitive ability. Moreover, the SDI was a robust AD neuroimaging biomarker capable of accurately distinguishing diagnostic status (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.86).

DISCUSSION

Our findings revealed the dysfunction of the brain's hierarchical structure in AD. Furthermore, the SDI could serve as a promising neuroimaging biomarker for AD.

Highlights

This study utilized multi‐center, multi‐modal data from East Asian populations.

We found an increased spatial gradient of the structure decoupling index (SDI) from sensory–motor to higher‐order cognitive regions.

Changes in SDI are associated with energy metabolism and mitochondria.

SDI can identify Alzheimer's disease (AD) and further uncover the disease mechanisms of AD.
Foreclosure, memory decline, and dementia probability: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Kim Min Hee , Schwartz Gabriel L.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION

Housing insecurity is rising among older adults; health researchers know little about how this may impact their cognitive health. We investigated links between foreclosure and older adults’ memory and probability of dementia.

METHODS

Using the Health and Retirement Study (2008 to 2018), we fit mixed models comparing the memory and dementia probability scores of 249 older adults who experienced foreclosure (treated) with 15,645 who did not. Baseline covariates included sociodemographics and health. Models were stratified by age group.

RESULTS

Foreclosure was associated with faster memory decline among middle‐aged (50 to 64) older adults (−0.007 standard deviations/year, 95% confidence interval: −0.13, −0.001). Compared to average memory decline among middle‐aged older adults who were stably housed, foreclosure equated to 3.7 additional years of aging over 10 years. Among those 65+, differences between those who were and were not foreclosed upon were short‐lived and less clear, potentially driven by depletion‐of‐susceptibles bias.

DISCUSSION

Foreclosure may endanger older adults’ memory.

Highlights

Housing instability is a key determinant of cognitive aging.

We examined foreclosure and levels and changes in memory and dementia probability scores in the US older adult population.

Foreclosure was associated with faster memory decline among middle‐aged (50 to 64) older adults, equivalent to 3.7 additional years of cognitive aging over 10 years.

Foreclosure yielded sharp memory declines and increases in dementia probability among older adults 65 and above.

Foreclosure imposes a greater risk for older adults’ cognitive decline.
Eine Photocrosslinker Sonde zur Erfassung der Substrate der caseinolytischen Protease P
Authors: Gronauer Thomas F. , Eck Laura K. , Ludwig Christina , Sieber Stephan A.
Published: July 2024

Proteinhomöostase in Bakterien wird durch Proteasen wie der tetradekameren caseinolytischen Protease P (ClpP) reguliert. Obwohl Substrate von ClpP in genetisch veränderten Zellen bereits erfolgreich erfasst wurden, fehlen bislang Methoden, um diese in nativen Zellen zu identifizieren. In dieser Publikation beschreiben wir eine in situ Trapping‐Methode, die trifunktionale Sonden nutzt, die an das aktive Zentrum von ClpP binden und benachbarte Substrate mit Hilfe eines Photocrosslinkers binden. Nach Anreicherung des Komplexes durch das Alkin erfolgt die Substratanalyse durch Massenspektrometrie (MS). Wir zeigen, dass unsere beiden Traps substoichiometrisch an ClpP binden, die Proteaseaktivität von ClpP nicht inhibieren, Selektivität für ClpP in Staphylococcus aureus Zellen aufweisen und zahlreiche bekannte und neue Substrate identifizieren konnten. Die exemplarische Validierung dieser Substrate mittels eines gezielten Proteomik‐Ansatzes bestätigte die Zuverlässigkeit dieser Methode. Zusammenfassend bieten wir eine neuartige chemische Plattform zur Identifizierung von Serinprotease‐Substraten in nativen Zellen.
Programmable Chemical Evolution with Natural/Non‐Natural Building Blocks
Authors: Liu Ping , Jannatul Refeya , Chen Juan , Hou Lihua , Gao Mingjuan , Wang Pengjie , Wang Lulu , Jin Dekui , Chen Hao , Liu Rong , Wang Ran , Zhu Yinhua , Fang Bing , Jia Lirong , Sun Yanan , Zhang Yixin , Ren Fazheng , Lin Weilin
Published: July 2024

Non‐natural building blocks (BBs) present a vast reservoir of chemical diversity for molecular recognition and drug discovery. However, leveraging evolutionary principles to efficiently generate bioactive molecules with a larger number of diverse BBs poses challenges within current laboratory evolution systems. Here, we introduce programmable chemical evolution (PCEvo) by integrating chemoinformatic classification and high‐throughput array synthesis/screening. PCEvo initiates evolution by constructing a diversely combinatorial library to create ancestral molecules, streamlines the molecular evolution process and identifies high‐affinity binders within 2–4 cycles. By employing PCEvo with 108 BBs and exploring >1017 chemical space, we identify bicyclic peptidomimetic binders against targets SAR‐CoV‐2 RBD and Claudin18.2, achieving nanomolar affinity. Remarkably, Claudin18.2 binders selectively stain gastric adenocarcinoma cell lines and patient samples. PCEvo achieves expedited evolution in a few rounds, marking a significant advance in utilizing non‐natural building blocks for rapid chemical evolution applicable to targets with or without prior structural information and ligand preference.
Heteroatoms‐Stabilized Single Palladium Atoms on Amorphous Zeolites: Breaking the Tradeoff between Catalytic Activity and Selectivity for Alkyne Semihydrogenation
Authors: Bai Risheng , He Guangyuan , Li Junyan , Li Lin , Zhang Tianjun , Wang Xingxing , Zhang Wei , Zou Yongcun , Zhang Jichao , Mei Donghai , Corma Avelino , Yu Jihong
Published: July 2024

As a fundamental industrial catalytic process, the semihydrogenation of alkynes presents a challenge in striking a balance between activity and selectivity due to the issue of over‐hydrogenation. Herein, we develop an efficient catalytic system based on single‐atom Pd catalysts supported on boron‐containing amorphous zeolites (Pd/AZ−B), achieving the tradeoff breaking between the activity and selectivity for the selective hydrogenation of alkynes. Advanced characterizations and theoretical density functional theory calculations confirm that the incorporated B atoms in the Pd/AZ−B can not only alter the geometric and electronic properties of Pd atoms by controlling the electron migration from Pd but also mitigate the interaction between alkene and the catalyst supports. This boosts the exceptional catalytic efficacy in the semihydrogenation of phenylacetylene to styrene under mild conditions (298 K, 2 bar H2), achieving a recorded turnover frequency (TOF) value of 24198 h−1 and demonstrating 95 % selectivity to styrene at full conversion of phenylacetylene. By comparison, the heteroatom‐free amorphous zeolite‐anchored Pd nanoparticles and the commercial Lindlar catalyst have styrene selectivities of 73 % and 15 %, respectively, under identical reaction conditions. This work establishes a solid foundation for developing highly active and selective hydrogenation catalysts by controllably optimizing their electronic and steric properties.
Recyclable Polythioesters and Poly(thioester‐co‐peptoid)s via Ring‐Opening Cascade Polymerization of Amino Acid N‐Carboxyanhydrides
Authors: Wang Shuo , Tian Zi‐You , Lu Hua
Published: July 2024

Polythioesters (PTEs) are emerging sustainable polymers for their degradability and recyclability. However, low polymerizability of monomers and extensive side reactions often hampered the polymerization process. Moreover, copolymers containing both thioester and other types of functional groups in the backbone are highly desirable but rarely accomplished owing to several synthetic challenges. Here, we report the ring‐opening cascade polymerization (ROCAP) of N‐(2‐(acetylthio)ethyl)‐glycine N‐carboxyanhydrides (TE‐NCA) to afford recyclable PTEs and unprecedented poly(thioester‐co‐peptoid)s (P(TE‐co‐PP)s) in a controlled manner. By developing appropriated carboxylic acid‐tertiary amine dual catalysts, intramolecular S‐to‐N acyl shift is coupled into the ROCAP process of TE‐NCA to yield products with dispersity below 1.10, molecular weight (Mn) up to 84.5 kDa, and precisely controlled ratio of thioester to peptoids. Random copolymerization of sarcosine NCA (Sar‐NCA) and TE‐NCA gives thioester‐embedded polysarcosine with facile backbone degradation while maintaining the water solubility. This work represents a paradigm shift for the ROP of NCAs, enriches the realm of cascade polymerizations, and provides a powerful synthetic approach to functional PTEs and P(TE‐co‐PP)s that are otherwise difficult or impossible to make.
Confinement Synthesis of Atomic Copper‐Anchored Polymeric Carbon Nitride in Crystalline UiO‐66‐NH2 for High‐Performance CO2‐to‐CH3OH Photocatalysis
Authors: Liu Xingbing , Zhu Changyan , Li Mengying , Xing Hongzhu , Zhu Siyang , Liu Xin , Zhu Guangshan
Published: July 2024

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction to value‐added fuels displays an attractive scenario to enhance energy supply and reduce global warming. We report herein the confinement synthesis of polymeric carbon nitride (PCN) incorporating with Cu single atoms (CuSAs) inside the crystalline UiO‐66‐NH2, which combines the merits of heterojunction photocatalysis and single‐atom catalysis (SAC) to achieve high‐performance CO2‐to‐CH3OH conversion. A series of spectral studies displays the formation of CuSAs@PCN inside the crystalline UiO‐66‐NH2. Remarkably, the ternary composite shows an excellent photocatalytic turnover frequency of 4.15 mmol ⋅ h−1 ⋅ g−1 for CO2‐to‐CH3OH conversion. Theoretical and experimental studies demonstrate the doping of CuSAs, as well as the formation of type‐II heterojunction, are causal factors to achieve CH3OH generation. The study provides new insights designing high‐performance photocatalyst for CO2 conversion to fuels at atomic scale.
Copper Intercalation Induces Amorphization of 2D Cu/WO3 for Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism
Authors: Zhao Duanduan , Gao Bo , An Guangyu , Xu Song , Tian Qingyong , Xu Qun
Published: July 2024

Ferromagnetism in the two‐dimensional limit has become an intriguing topic for exploring new physical phenomena and potential applications. To induce ferromagnetism in 2D materials, intercalation has been proposed to be an effective strategy, which could introduce lattice distortion and unpaired spin into the material to modulate the magnetocrystalline anisotropy and magnetic exchange interactions. To strengthen the understanding of the magnetic origin of 2D material, Cu was introduced into a 2D WO3 through chemical intercalation in this work (2D Cu/WO3). In contrast to the diamagnetic nature of Cu and WO3, room‐temperature ferromagnetism was characterized for 2D Cu/WO3. Experimental and theoretical results attribute the ferromagnetism to the bound magnetic polaron in 2D Cu/WO3, which is consist of unpaired spins from W5+/W4+ with localized carriers from oxygen vacancies. Overall, this work provides a novel approach to introduce ferromagnetism into diamagnetic WO3, which could be applied for a wider scope of 2D materials.
Mechanistic Insights into Curvature Formation in Synthetic Vesicles
Authors: Cook Alexander B.
Published: July 2024

The mimicking of natural lipid bilayers with synthetic amphiphilic systems is of great interest to researchers, as insights could lead to better understanding of the complexities of cell membranes, as well as new materials and healthcare technologies. Recapitulating natural lipid asymmetry across bilayer membranes has important implications for curvature in cell, vesicle, and organelle morphologies, but has been challenging to achieve with synthetic lipid combinations or standard amphiphilic block copolymers. In a recent article, Elizebath et al. report the synthesis of a new type of synthetic amphiphile able to induce asymmetry in an artificial bilayer membrane dynamically. The molecules were designed around an extended π‐conjugated hydrophobic core with tertiary amine‐terminated oxyalkylene side chains. Protonation of the tertiary amines on the bilayer exterior leads to curvature induction, bilayer fission, and vesicle formation as monitored by time‐resolved spectroscopy techniques and microscopy. The results were further validated with density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The delicate balance between different molecular scale interactions in the supramolecular structures led to the dynamic transformation of the bilayer membranes. Insights described could be used to advance the assembly of hierarchical life‐like materials.
Cu@Fe3O4/SiO2@MWCNTs promoted green synthesis of novel bis‐1,4‐dihydropyridines and evaluation of biological activity
Authors: Azizi Zahra , Amiri Somayeh Soleimani , Ghambarian Mehdi , Hossaini Zinatossadat
Published: July 2024

This study examined the investigation of one‐pot multicomponent reactions of actylacetone, 4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxybenzaldehyde, primary amines, and activated acetylenic compounds in an aqueous medium at room temperature in the presence of catalytic amounts of Cu@Fe3O4/SiO2@MWCNTs. The responses that were employed As a result, high‐yielding bis‐1,4‐dihydropyridines and other novel compounds can be produced. Diphenyl‐picrylhydrazine (DPPH) radical trapping is being used in this field of study to examine the antioxidant characteristics of some bis‐1,4‐dihydropyridines that are produced. Scholarly research now underway has concentrated on examining the antibacterial characteristics of chemical substances that have been produced. The bis‐1,4‐dihydropyridines was synthesized by an experimental procedure that demonstrated several notable features, such as rapid reaction kinetics, substantial product yields, and effortless separation of the catalyst from the reaction mixture.
The effects of seasonal climate change on the safflower genotypes productivity under Central Anatolian conditions
Authors: Koç Hasan
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of seasonal climate change on safflower genotypes productivity in Central Anatolian conditions during 2021 and 2022. The research focused on seed yield, oil content, and oil yield, considering variations in growing degree days (GDD) at different growth stages. In both years, seed yield was significantly affected by lack of rainfall. In 2021, safflower genotypes had an average seed yield of 1540 kg ha−1, while in 2022, it increased to 2390 kg ha−1 due to higher rainfall during critical growth stages. Different genotypes showed different performances in seed yield each year, highlighting the importance of selecting drought‐tolerant genotypes for breeding programmes. Oil content also showed significant variations between genotypes and years. Drought stress during flowering and seed filling periods generally led to a decrease in safflower oil content. However, in 2021, despite drought during the seedling stage, there was an increase in average oil content, possibly due to compensatory mechanisms related to reduced seed yield and dry matter content. In addition, the study looked at GDD values at different growth stages and found considerable variation among genotypes in GDD accumulation. Genotypes with higher GDD accumulation tended to have higher seed and oil yields, indicating better stress tolerance. Conversely, early maturing genotypes with lower GDD levels were better suited for regions with lower average temperatures. The results highlight the importance of considering both rainfall and temperature factors when selecting safflower genotypes for specific regions. In conclusion, the study highlights the impact of seasonal climate change on safflower productivity and the need to develop new safflower varieties capable of adapting to the predicted hotter and drier conditions due to climate change.
Characterization of maltose‐binding protein–fused heparinases with enhanced thermostability by application of rigid and flexible linkers
Authors: Wu Xi , Yun Zhenyu , Su Nan , Zhao Lin , Zhang Hui , Zhang Mengyan , Wu Qi , Zhang Chong , Xing Xin‐Hui
Published: July 2024

Heparinases, including heparinases I–III (HepI, HepII, and HepIII, respectively), are important tools for producing low‐molecular‐weight heparin, an improved anticoagulant. The poor thermostability of heparinases significantly hinders their industrial and laboratory applications. To improve the thermostability of heparinases, we applied a rigid linker (EAAAK)5 (R) and a flexible linker (GGGGS)5 (F) to fuse maltose‐binding protein (MBP) and HepI, HepII, and HepIII from Pedobacter heparinus, replacing the original linker from the plasmid pMAL‐c2X. Compared with their parental fusion protein, MBP‐fused HepIs, HepIIs, and HepIIIs with linkers (EAAAK)5 or (GGGGS)5 all displayed enhanced thermostability (half‐lives at 30°C: 242%–464%). MBP‐fused HepIs and HepIIs exhibited higher specific activity (127%–324%), whereas MBP‐fused HepIIIs displayed activity similar to that of their parental fusion protein. Kinetics analysis revealed that MBP‐fused HepIIs showed a significantly decreased affinity toward heparin with increased Km values (397%–480%) after the linker replacement, whereas the substrate affinity did not change significantly for MBP‐fused HepIs and HepIIIs. Furthermore, it preliminarily appeared that the depolymerization mechanism of these fusion proteins may not change after linker replacement. These findings suggest the superior enzymatic properties of MBP‐fused heparinases with suitable linker designs and their potential for the bioproduction of low‐molecular‐weight heparin.
Transposable elements as drivers of dedifferentiation: Connections between enhancers in embryonic stem cells, placenta, and cancer
Authors: Karttunen Konsta , Patel Divyesh , Sahu Biswajyoti
Published: July 2024

Transposable elements (TEs) have emerged as important factors in establishing the cell type‐specific gene regulatory networks and evolutionary novelty of embryonic and placental development. Recently, studies on the role of TEs and their dysregulation in cancers have shed light on the transcriptional, transpositional, and regulatory activity of TEs, revealing that the activation of developmental transcriptional programs by TEs may have a role in the dedifferentiation of cancer cells to the progenitor‐like cell states. This essay reviews the recent evidence of the cis‐regulatory TEs (henceforth crTE) in normal development and malignancy as well as the key transcription factors and regulatory pathways that are implicated in both cell states, and presents existing gaps remaining to be studied, limitations of current technologies, and therapeutic possibilities.
Non‐sterile cultivation of Yarrowia lipolytica in fed‐batch mode for the production of lipids and biomass
Authors: Chitnis Atith V. , Dhoble Abhishek S.
Published: July 2024

A reduction in the cost of production and energy requirement is necessary for developing sustainable commercial bioprocesses. Bypassing sterilization, which is an energy and cost‐intensive part of bioprocesses could be a way to achieve this. In this study, nonsterile cultivation of Yarrowia lipolytica was done on a synthetic medium containing acetic acid as the sole carbon source using two different strategies in the fed‐batch mode. The contamination percentages throughout the process were measured using flow cytometry and complemented using brightfield microscopy. Maximum biomass and lipid yields of 0.57 (g biomass/g substrate) and 0.17 (g lipids/g substrate), respectively, and maximum biomass and lipid productivities of 0.085 and 0.023 g/L/h, respectively, were obtained in different fed‐batch strategies. Feeding at the point of stationary phase resulted in better biomass yield and productivity with less than 2% contamination till 48 h. Feeding to maintain a minimum acetic level resulted in better lipid yield and productivity with less than 2% contamination during the complete process. The results of this study demonstrate the potential for cultivating Y. lipolytica in nonsterile conditions and monitoring the contamination throughout the process using flow cytometry.
Prenylated Acetophenone Derivatives from the Leaves of Acronychia pedunculata and Their Anti‐Proliferative Activities
Authors: Yang Zhen‐Zhen , Li Ni‐Ping , Lv Li‐Xia , Li Yi‐Yi , Ge Ge , Zhuo Yue , Wang Qi , Gu Ji‐Hong , Wu Yan
Published: July 2024

Four new prenylated acetophenone derivatives, including one acetophenone dimer [acronyrone D (1)] and three acetophenone monomers [acronyrones E−G (2–4)], along with seven known analogues (5–11) were obtained from the leaves of Acronychia pedunculata. Their structures and absolute configurations were established by analysis of HRMS and NMR data, single crystal X‐ray diffraction studies and quantum chemical calculations. In addition, the isolates were tested for their anti‐proliferative acivity against HCT‐116, RKO and SW480 cancer cell lines. Compound 5 exhibited significant anti‐proliferative effects on the three cell lines, with IC50 values ranging from 0.24–5.3 μM.
Insights on the Tunisian Prickly Pear Molasses as a Potential Antifibrotic and Antioxidant Candidate against Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Bahri Sana , Bouazizi Souhir , Nahdi Afef , Mlika Mona , Hamdi Mokhtar , Jameleddine Saloua
Published: July 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a chronic and progressive interstitial disease leading to pulmonary damage and respiratory failure. We aimed to investigate the effect of prickly pear molasses (PPM) on an experimental model of pulmonary fibrosis induced by bleomycin (BLM) in Wistar rat. Animals were divided into 5 groups: the control group (G1), the BLM group (G2) and three groups (G3, G4, G5) receiving a single intra‐tracheal injection of BLM (4 mg/kg) and PPM (at 2, 4.5 and10 %) that was introduced into the diet one week before BLM injection and continued for 3 weeks. Our phytochemical results revealed significant polyphenol and flavonoid content. LCMS analysis revealed the presence of Sinapinic acid, t‐ferulic acid, t‐cinnamic acid, Caffeic acid, gallic acid and vallinic acid among others. Our histological study revealed significant decrease in collagen deposition in the groups of rats treated with 4.5 % and 10 % molasses compared to BLM group. Oxidative stress in pulmonary tissues was investigated using catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and malondialdehyde (MDA) assays. Treatment with PPM normalized the disturbance in the level of these oxidative markers in G3,G4, G5 compared to G2. In conclusion, PPM exhibit antifibrotic and antioxidant activities in BLM model of lung fibrosis.
Development of Uniform Ribosome Display Technology Enabling Easy and Efficient Identification of Full‐Length Proteins that Interact with Bioactive Small and Large Molecules
Authors: Taguchi Kenshiro , Sakai Yuichi , Furuhashi Takuto , Hara Shuta , Wada Akira
Published: July 2024

Identifying target proteins that interact with bioactive molecules is indispensable for understanding their mechanisms of action. In this study, we developed a uniform ribosome display technology using equal‐length DNAs and mRNAs to improve molecular display principle for target identification. The equal‐length DNAs were designed to contain various coding sequences for full‐length proteins with molecular weights of up to 130 kDa and were used to synthesize equal‐length mRNAs, which allowed the formation of full‐length protein‐ribosome‐equal‐length mRNA complexes. Uniform ribosome display selections of dihydrofolate reductase and haloalkane dehalogenase mutant were performed against methotrexate and chlorohexane, respectively. Quantitative changes of proteins after each selection indicated that the target protein‐displaying ribosomal complexes were specifically selected through non‐covalent or covalent interactions with the corresponding bioactive molecules. Furthermore, selection of full‐length proteins interacting with methotrexate or anti‐DDX46 antibody from protein pools showed that only the target proteins could be precisely identified even though the molar amounts of equal‐length mRNAs encoding them were adjusted to 1/20,000 of the total equal‐length mRNAs. Thus, the uniform ribosome display technology enabled efficient identification of target proteins that interact with bioactive small and large molecules through simplified operations without deep sequencing.
HAT‐Mediated Electrochemical C(sp2)−H Alkoxylation of Pyrido[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4‐ones with Aliphatic Alcohols
Authors: Ghosh Subhadeep , Biswas Sumit , Das Indrajit
Published: July 2024

A direct alkoxylation of the electron‐deficient olefinic C(sp2)−H bond in pyrido[1,2‐a]pyrimidin‐4‐ones using aliphatic alcohols has been developed under transition metal and external chemical oxidant‐free electrochemical conditions. Azidotrimethylsilane (TMSN3) is utilized as a hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) reagent to enable the homolytic cleavage of the unfunctionalized O−H bond in alcohols, thereby generating the electrophilic alkoxy radicals. Moreover, the effectiveness of this method is demonstrated with d4‐methanol (CD3OD), leading to the synthesis of d3‐methoxylated N‐heterocycles in good yields under sustainable conditions. The proposed mechanism, based on alkoxy or trideuteromethoxy radicals, is substantiated by control experiments and cyclic voltammetry (CV) studies.
Advancements in Photocatalytic H2O2 Production via Carbon Vacancy‐Engineered g‐C3N4
Authors: Wang Lin , Hou Huilin
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is gaining prominence as a versatile oxidizing agent and sustainable energy carrier, prompting the need for efficient and eco‐friendly production methods. Traditional approaches face challenges such as high energy consumption and environmental impact, driving interest towards alternative methods like photocatalysis and electrocatalysis. Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) has emerged as a promising photocatalyst due to its inherent band structure that facilitates solar energy utilization. However, bare g‐C3N4 encounters limitations like rapid charge recombination and limited light absorption. Recent advancements have focused on enhancing g‐C3N4 photocatalysts through carbon vacancy (Cv) engineering, which effectively modifies electronic and surface properties to improve photocatalytic performance. This mini‐review explores the fundamental principles and recent advancements in Cv‐engineered g‐C3N4 photocatalysts for H2O2 production. It discusses the critical roles of carbon vacancies in enhancing the photocatalytic performance of g‐C3N4, along with methods for creating carbon vacancies in g‐C3N4 and their impact on photocatalytic H2O2 production. The review also addresses challenges related to scalable synthesis and practical deployment of Cv‐g‐C3N4 materials, providing insights into future research directions for sustainable photocatalytic technologies.
Electrolytes for Aluminum‐Ion Batteries: Progress and Outlook
Authors: Liu Wanxin , Li Le , Yue Shi , Jia Shaofeng , Wang Conghui , Zhang Dan
Published: July 2024

Aluminum‐ion batteries (AIBs) are promising electrochemical energy storage sources because of their high theoretical specific capacity, light weight, zero pollution, safety, inexpensiveness, and abundant resources. These theoretical advantages have recently made AIBs a research hotspot. However, electrolyte‐related issues significantly limit their commercialization. The electrolyte choices for AIBs are significantly limited, and most of the available options do not facilitate the Al3+/Al three‐electron transfer reaction. Thus, this review presents an overview of recent advances in electrolytes and modification strategies for AIBs to clarify the limitations of existing AIB electrolytes and offer guidance for improving their performance. Furthermore, herein, the advantages, limitations and possible solutions for each electrolyte are discussed, after which the future of AIB electrolytes is envisioned.
Symmetric Aromatic Amidoalkylations of Triphenylenes
Authors: Lorenzetto Tommaso , Berton Giacomo , Castellini Francesco , Casson Gabriele , Scarso Alessandro , Fabris Fabrizio
Published: July 2024

Triphenylene derivatives are highly investigated for their electronic, supramolecular and photophysical properties, but the direct modification of the central aromatic core is particularly challenging especially in the internal positions 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 12. Herein we present an efficient alkylation method of 2,3,6,7,10,11‐hexasubstituted triphenylene derivatives leading to tris‐alkylated C3‐symmetric derivatives in good yields using N‐(hydroxymethyl)carboxamide or N‐(alkoxylmethyl)carboxamide alkylating agents.
First person profile: Heather A. Wakelee, MD
Authors: Nierengarten Mary Beth
Published: July 2024

This news section offers Cancer readers timely information on events, public policy analysis, topical issues, and personalities. This issue features Dr Heather A. Wakelee, who has served in multiple functions for more than 20 years, including developing research programs in lung cancer and thymoma. In addition, articles discuss the ASCO guideline on cannabis use in adults with cancer and accelerated approval of multiple myeloma therapies.
Modulation of the multiphase phosphorus/sulfide heterogeneous interface via rare earth for solar‐enhanced water splitting at industrial‐level current densities
Authors: Cheng Yikun , Fu Pengjie , Yu Zhipeng , Yang Xiaodong , Zhang Yangrui , Yuan Aojie , Liu Huan , Du Jianhao , Chen Long
Published: July 2024

Photoelectrically coupling water splitting at high current density is a promising approach for the acquisition of green hydrogen energy. However, it places significant demands on the photo/electrocatalysts. Herein, rare earth elements doping NiMoO4‐based phosphorus/sulfide heterostructure nanorod arrays (RE‐NiMo‐PS@NF [RE = Y, Er, La, and Sc]) are obtained for solar‐enhanced electrocatalytic water splitting at high current densities. The results of the experiment and density‐functional theory studies illustrate that the Y element as a dopant not only makes the NiMoP2/NiMo3S4/NiMoO4 heterostructure exhibit excellent solar‐enhanced electrocatalytic activity (hydrogen evolution reaction [HER]: η1000 = 211 mV, oxygen evolution reaction [OER]: η1000 = 367 mV) but also optimizes the heterostructure interfacial electron density distributions and HER free energy. In addition, Y‐NiMo‐PS@NF achieves 18.64% solar‐to‐hydrogen efficiency. This study not only provides a new way to synthesize heterostructure electrocatalysts but also inspires the application of solar enhancement strategies for high current density water splitting.
Integrated Cyano Groups into the Skeleton of Conjugated Polymers to Activate Molecular Oxygen for Boosting Photocatalytic H2O2 Efficiency
Authors: Wang Qing , Wang Wenjiao , Guo Liping , Liao Lijun , Li Zhenzi , Xiang Yonggang , Wang Xuepeng , Liu Haixia , Zhou Wei
Published: July 2024

Conjugated polymers (CPs) have shown promising potential in the field of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) photosynthesis. However, a deeper understanding of the interactions between building units and specific functional groups within the molecular skeleton is necessary to elucidate the mechanisms driving H2O2 generation. Herein, a series of typical donor‐acceptor (D‐A) conjugated polymers (B‐B, B‐CN, B‐DCN) were synthesized by introducing different amounts of cyano groups (‐CN) into the molecular skeleton. The strong electron withdrawing properties of cyano can greatly promote the effective separation and transfer of photogenerated charges between building units, resulting in an impressive efficiency of H2O2 generation (2128.5 μmol g−1 h−1) for B‐DCN, representing a 96‐fold enhancement compared to B‐B. More importantly, experimental results and theoretical calculations further revealed that the introduction of ‐CN can markedly reduce the adsorption energy (Ead) of O2, while serving as an active site to induce the conversion of crucial intermediate superoxide anions (⋅O2−) into singlet oxygen (1O2), achieving dual‐channel H2O2 generation (O2→⋅O2−→H2O2, O2→⋅O2−→1O2→H2O2). This work provides valuable insights into the design of efficient H2O2 photosynthesis materials.