bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous high‐pitch multi‐energy CT pulmonary angiography using a dual‐source photon‐counting‐detector CT: A phantom experiment
Authors: Mihailovic Jelena M. , Bruesewitz Michael R. , Swicklik Joseph R. , Yalon Mariana , Rajiah Prabhakar S. , Fletcher Joel G. , McCollough Cynthia H. , Yu Lifeng
Published: August 2024

Purpose

A dual‐source CT system can be operated in a high‐pitch helical mode to provide a temporal resolution of 66 ms, which reduces motion artifacts in CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA). It can also be operated in a multi‐energy (ME) mode to provide iodine maps, beneficial in the evaluation of pulmonary embolism (PE). No energy‐integrating detector (EID) CT can perform simultaneous ME and high‐pitch acquisition. This phantom study aimed to evaluate the ability of a photon‐counting‐detector (PCD) CT to perform simultaneous high‐pitch and ME imaging for CTPA.

Methods

A motion phantom was used to mimic the respiratory motion. Two tubes filled with iodine with intravascular thrombus mimicked by injecting glue within the tubes were placed along with 5, 10, and 15 mg/mL iodine samples, on a motion phantom at 20 and 30 revolutions per minute. Separate high‐pitch and ME EID‐CT scans and a single high‐pitch ME PCD scan were acquired and virtual monoenergetic images and iodine maps reconstructed. Percent thrombus occlusion was measured and compared between static and moving images.

Results

When there was motion, EID‐CT ME suffered from significant motion artifacts. The measured iodine concentrations with PCD‐CT in high‐pitch ME were more stable when there was a motion, with a lower standard deviation than EID‐CT in ME mode. The estimated percent thrombus occlusion dropped significantly with applied motion on EID‐CT, while PCD‐CT high‐pitch ME mode showed good agreement between measurements on static or moving images.

Conclusion

PCD‐CT with combined ME and high‐pitch mode facilitates simultaneous accurate iodine quantification and assessment of intravascular occlusion.
Bioactive, Antibacterial, and Biocompatible Multifunctional Mg–GO/ZnO Nanocomposite with Improved Mechanical and Corrosion Characteristics
Authors: Raeisidehkordi Shakila , Zolfaghari Baghbaderani Mohammad , Bakhsheshi‐Rad Hamid Reza , Drelich Jaroslaw W. , Sharif Safian , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi , Razzaghi Mahmood
Published: August 2024

Addressing bacterial infection poses a notable challenge associated with medical implants, including magnesium (Mg)‐based implants used in orthopedic applications. The present work investigates the effect of graphene oxide (GO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) fillers on the microstructure, mechanical strength, corrosion resistance, antibacterial activity, and biodegradation properties of Mg alloy. The co‐inclusion of GO and ZnO in the nanocomposites (NCs) resulted in enhanced microhardness, compressive strength, corrosion performance, and hydrophobicity, with values rising from 51 to 82 Hv and 165 to 269 MPa, polarization resistance from 236 to 429 Ω cm2, and water contact angle from 46° to 87°, respectively. An exploration of the corrosion mechanism using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and identification of NC characteristics revealed that the NC's compactness and the hindrance of corrosive ion penetration into the Mg matrix were attributed to the presence of GO/ZnO fillers. Additionally, the formulated NC improved MG63 cell proliferation and attachment. These findings indicate that the developed Mg‐based NCs, leveraging its antimicrobial properties through the inclusion of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) and graphene oxide nanoflakes (GONFs), holds significant potential as a degradable material for temporary orthopedic bone implants.
Plasmonic Photovoltaic Effect of an Original 2D Electron Gas System and Application in Mid‐Infrared Imaging
Authors: Wang Yao , Zhu Haiming , Wu Chunxiang , Ren Ziyang , Liu Mengjuan , Zhai Yihui , Zhou Zhou , Gou Hanguang , Luo Xuefeng , Sheng Yusong , Fang Wei , Fang Minghu , Zhu He , Ali Nasir , Lai Weien , Zhu Jiaqi , Zhao Sihan , Wu Huizhen
Published: August 2024

Owing to their consistently emerging applications in modern photonics, highly sensitive and rapid mid‐infrared (MIR) photodetectors, operating at high temperatures, are of great significance. Herein, a novel PbTe/Ge heterostructure is introduced. Notably, the discovery of a 2D electron gas (2DEG) system on the surface of the PbTe layer is experimentally identified for the first time. A high‐performance PbTe/Ge heterostructure MIR photodetector utilizing a plasmonic photovoltaic effect is developed by employing asymmetric electrodes. The photodetecting device demonstrates an exceptionally high detectivity of 1.1 × 1011 Jones along with a short response time of 15 ns at room temperature. Additionally, the proposed plasmonic photovoltaic mechanism of the device is investigated and mainly ascribed to the propagating plasmons, generated by the coupling of the 2DEG with incident MIR photons. Moreover, a linear detector array (LDA) of PbTe/Ge is demonstrated for a thermal imaging application, which exhibits promising high‐quality real‐time imaging via the 2D photodetector arrays on Ge‐based integrated circuits. This work opens up a new way for the development of next‐generation, advanced MIR photonic devices and integrated photonic systems.
19.35% Efficient Binary Bulk‐Heterojunction Organic Photovoltaic Enabled by Optimizing Bromine‐Substituted Self‐Assembled Carbazole Based Molecules
Authors: Sun Xiaokang , Zhang Chenyang , Yao Yiguo , Lv Jie , Yao Jie , Ding Xiaoman , Lu Manjia , Zhu Liangxiang , Zhang Guangye , Lin Haoran , Shi Yumeng , Wang Kai , Yang Chunming , Ouyang Xiaoping , Hu Hanlin , McCulloch Iain , Lin Yuanbao
Published: August 2024

A bromine‐substituted [2‐(9H‐Carbazol‐9‐yl) ethyl] phosphonic acid, 1Br‐2PACz, is designed as hole‐selective self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs), contributing to an outstanding power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.35% for binary bulk‐heterojunction (BHJ) based organic solar cells (OSCs). As compared to the previous high‐performance 2Br‐2PACz SAMs, 1Br‐2PACz molecules can effectively reduce the interaction of the SAM with the BTP‐eC9 nonfullerene acceptors with a decreased binding energy, resulting in the suppressed vertical self‐aggregation of BTP‐eC9 small molecules as the bottom side of PM6:BTP‐eC9 BHJ during the solidification process. There is decreased energetic disorder within photoactive layer together with more efficient charge transfer and suppressed non‐radiative recombination. Furthermore, five additional binary BHJ systems are applied in 1Br‐2PACz SAM‐based OSCs, exhibiting continuously superior performance as compared to the reference cells with conventional PEDOT:PSS hole transport layer. This work underscores the potential of advancing OSCs by fine‐tuning SAMs through halogenation strategies to improve active layer morphology and overall device performance.
Strategies for Improving Product Selectivity in Electrocatalytic Carbon Dioxide Reduction Using Copper‐Based Catalysts
Authors: Li Yi , Sun Ye , Yu Miao
Published: August 2024

As an effective approach to converting carbon oxide (CO2) into value‐added carbonaceous products, the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction (ECO2RR) has shown considerable potential for carbon neutrality, addressing global pollution and climate issues. Copper (Cu)‐based electrocatalysts (CuECs) are acknowledged as important candidates for the ECO2RR of multi‐carbon products. Nevertheless, the complicated electron transfer and multiple competitive pathways in the multi‐carbon production process raise challenges of product selectivity. While achieving high current density and structural stability, improving the product selectivity of CuECs has become crucial to their practical applications. Herein, an overview of the fundamental thermodynamic and kinetic principles of ECO2RR are presented. Then, the typical strategies are summarized for increasing CuEC selectivity for the formation of multi‐carbon products from CO2, including morphological control, component design, defect design, and interface design. The catalyst design, catalytic performance, and reaction mechanisms involved in these strategies are reviewed. Finally, the major challenges and future prospects for high‐performance electrocatalysts in ECO2RR are discussed.
Bioinspired Green Underwater Adhesive Gelatin‐Tannic Acid Hydrogel With Wide Range Adjustable Adhesion Strength and Multiple Environmental Adaptability
Authors: Yuan Zhonghe , Wang Tao , Shao Chuyin , Yang Shurui , Sun Weixiang , Chen Yunhua , Peng Zhiping , Tong Zhen
Published: August 2024

Underwater adhesion of hydrogels is essential for their applications in liquid environment. However, green raw materials, facile preparation process and multiple environmental adaptability are still issues that need to be improved. Inspired by the protein‐based underwater bio‐adhesion phenomena in nature, an effective stepwise immersion method is developed without any polymerization to prepare a green underwater adhesive hydrogel by combining gelatin and tannic acid (TA), two common materials from nature yet difficult to obtain their homogenous compound. By facile treatments in urea solution or heating, the hydrogels can realize stable immediate adhesion on various substrates and in different liquids in addition to water with a wide range of adjustable adhesion strength of 100–103 kPa. The evolution of the hydrogel network structure and the adhesion mechanism are systematically studied. Furthermore, several typical portable products based on the adhesive hydrogels are demonstrated to show the commercialization possibility. This work presented a novel, facile, and distinctive strategy for designing environmentally friendly, multiple adaptive adhesives.
Mechanistic Insights into the Role of Elements in Ni‐Co‐P Catalysts for Electrochemical Conversion of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5‐Furandicarboxylic Acid
Authors: Woo Jongin , Choi Jinu , Choi Juhyung , Lee Mi‐Young , Kim Eunji , Yun Sang , Yoo Suhwan , Lee Eunchong , Lee Ung , Won Da Hye , Park Jong Hyeok , Hwang Yun Jeong , Yoo Jong Suk , Lee Dong Ki
Published: August 2024

Ni phosphides and NiCo alloys are extensively explored for their remarkable efficiency in biomass alcohol oxidations, yet the underlying mechanisms remain inadequately understood. This study thoroughly elucidates the roles of Ni, Co, and P in improving the catalytic performance of Ni‐Co‐P catalysts for the electrochemical conversion of 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) to 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), a promising biomass‐derived building block replacing terephthalic acid. Phosphorization of Ni results in the partial formation of Ni2P phase and significantly boosts the formation of the reactive NiOOH phase on the surface, which is the crucial catalytic phase for converting HMF into FDCA. The integration of Co into the heterojunction between Ni2P and NiOOH enhances the oxidation reactivity of 5‐formyl‐2‐furancarboxylic acid (FFCA), a pivotal intermediate influencing FDCA productivity, by selectively stabilizing aldehydes, thereby promoting further oxidation rather than surface desorption. in situ/operando spectroscopic analyses consistently highlight the equal significance of the rapid generation of NiOOH and the robust adsorption of reactant molecules at the surface in achieving high catalytic performance. These insights into elemental contributions set a new standard for designing multi‐component electrocatalysts for efficient biomass alcohol oxidation.
Enhancing Circular Dichroism in Chiral Perovskites via Dual Spacer Cation Engineering for Circularly Polarized Light Detection
Authors: Song Haeni , Kwak Minjoon , Choi Wonbin , Yoo Dongwon , Oh Joon Hak
Published: August 2024

Chiral hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites (HOIPs) have garnered considerable research interest in the field of optoelectronics, owing to their ability to integrate outstanding optoelectronic characteristics with distinct chiral or spin‐related properties. Although recent years have witnessed the rapid development of chiral perovskites, methods for producing perovskites with high absorption dissymmetry factors (gCD) enabling polarization‐resolved chiroptical applications are still lacking. This study introduces a strategic combination of dual spacer cations, i.e., achiral hexane‐1,6‐diammonium (HDA) and chiral 1‐(chlorophenyl)ethylammonium (ClPEA), for boosting the chiroptical performance of 2D lead iodide HOIPs. Interestingly, ortho‐ClPEA, incapable of forming 2D HOIPs independently, successfully creates 2D structures in collaboration with HDA, exhibiting CD signals aligned with the absorption characteristics of 2D HOIPs. This significant milestone leads to an outstanding gCD value of 0.018, positioning it among the top performers in the field of lead‐based HOIPs. Furthermore, this study demonstrates the fabrication of circularly polarized light (CPL) detectors with a photocurrent dissymmetry factor (gIph) of 0.12, utilizing the HOIPs with enhanced chiroptical activity.
Enhanced Electroluminescence Quantum Efficiency via Tunable 2D Built‐In Electric Fields
Authors: Yang Yutian , An Xuhong , Yang Jiafu , Fu Qiang , Wei Zhiyong , Ni Zhenhua , Ma Liang , Hu Zhenliang , Lu Junpeng
Published: August 2024

The built‐in electric field (BIEF) is of utmost importance for 2D optoelectronic devices, which are typically realized in heterostructures created through interfacial engineering. However, the limitations of the sharp field distribution, inevitable energy band discontinuity, and inflexible construction of 2D heterostructures restrict their application. In this work, a large‐scale, continuous, and controllable BIEF using monolayer WxMo1−xS2 alloys with tunable composition gradients is constructed. Density functional simulations demonstrate that a BIEF can be formed within the whole alloy due to the charge distribution resulting from the composition gradients. Accordingly, a monolayer WxMo1−xS2 alloy with a controllable composition gradient via two‐step chemical vapor deposition and confirmed the continuous tunability of the band structure and the variation in the composition gradient within the alloy is synthesized. Using the BIEF, 2D light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) based on WxMo1−xS2 alloys and achieve strong electroluminescence emission are constructed. A large BIEF facilitates charge carrier migration and recombination, and the external quantum efficiency (over 0.62%) is more than 5 times that of small BIEF LEDs. The study not only provides a novel approach for the on‐demand design of a BIEF but also provides an opportunity for potential applications in optoelectronic devices.
Antifreeze Protein Activity: From Ice Binding to Ice Growth Inhibition
Authors: Midya Uday Sankar , Bandyopadhyay Sanjoy
Published: August 2024

Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) lower the freezing point of water without affecting the melting point appereciably. To elucidate the behavior of AFPs, a series of simulations are conducted using Tenebrio molitor antifreeze protein (TmAFP) as a paradigm protein. This review highlights important findings obtained from those studies. Explicit solvent molecular dynamics simulations illustrate that, in order to get adsorbed on to the ice surfaces, a very specific kind of hydration structure and dynamics are developed on the ice‐binding surface (IBS) of TmAFP. The complementary arrangement of water molecules and protein residues in the ice‐bound state of the protein is determined from heterogeneous ice nucleation simulation on a model IBS. The result shows that the regular structure of ice is not maintained at the protein‐ice interface. Water molecules are found to form five‐membered hydrogen‐bonded rings with protein residues. It is further demonstrated that TmAFP carries its own binding motif while it is present freely in solution. Hydrophobic and hydrogen bonding interactions together contribute to form such motif on the IBS of the protein. Further, the growth of ice in presence of the protein bound to an ice plane is found to be inhibited by the Kelvin effect.
Tuning Immune‐Cold Tumor by Suppressing USP10/B7‐H4 Proteolytic Axis Reinvigorates Therapeutic Efficacy of ADCs
Authors: Zeng Lidan , Zhu Yueming , Cui Xin , Chi Junlong , Uddin Amad , Zhou Zhuan , Song Xinxin , Dai Mingji , Cristofanilli Massimo , Kalinsky Kevin , Wan Yong
Published: August 2024

Tuning immune‐cold tumor hot has largely attracted attention to improve cancer treatment, including immunotherapy and antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs). Utilizing multiomic analyses and experimental validation, this work identifies a pivotal role for the USP10/B7‐H4 proteolytic axis in mediating the interplay between tumor immune responses and ADC efficacy, particularly for sacituzumab govitecan (SG) in treating triple negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Mechanistically, the inhibition of autocrine motility factor receptor (AMFR)‐mediated ubiquitylation of B7‐H4 by the deubiquitinase USP10 leads to the stabilization of B7‐H4, which suppresses tumor immune activity and reduces SG treatment effectiveness. Pharmacological inhibition of USP10 promotes the degradation of B7‐H4, enhancing tumor immunogenicity and consequently improving the tumor‐killing efficacy of SG. In preclinical TNBC models, suppression of USP10/B7‐H4 proteolytic axis is effective in increasing SG killing efficacy and reducing tumor growth, especially for the tumors with the USP10high/B7‐H7high signature. Collectively, these findings uncover a novel strategy for targeting the immunosuppressive molecule B7‐H4 for cancer therapy.
Sphingosine Kinase 2 Regulates Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Nuclear Translocation and Target Gene Activation
Authors: Yokoyama Shigetoshi , Koo Imhoi , Aibara Daisuke , Tian Yuan , Murray Iain A. , Collins Stephanie L. , Coslo Denise M. , Kono Mari , Peters Jeffrey M. , Proia Richard L. , Gonzalez Frank J. , Perdew Gary H. , Patterson Andrew D.
Published: August 2024

Sphingolipids play vital roles in metabolism and regulation. Previously, the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), a ligand‐activated transcription factor, was reported to directly regulate ceramide synthesis genes by binding to their promoters. Herein, sphingosine kinase 2 (SPHK2), responsible for producing sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), was found to interact with AHR through LXXLL motifs, influencing AHR nuclear localization. Through mutagenesis and co‐transfection studies, AHR activation and subsequent nuclear translocation was hindered by SPHK2 LXXLL mutants or SPHK2 lacking a nuclear localization signal (NLS). Similarly, an NLS‐deficient AHR mutant impaired SPHK2 nuclear translocation. Silencing SPHK2 reduced AHR expression and its target gene CYP1A1, while SPHK2 overexpression enhanced AHR activity. SPHK2 was found enriched on the CYP1A1 promoter, underscoring its role in AHR target gene activation. Additionally, S1P rapidly increased AHR expression at both the mRNA and protein levels and promoted AHR recruitment to the CYP1A1 promoter. Using mouse models, AHR deficiency compromised SPHK2 nuclear translocation, illustrating a critical interaction where SPHK2 facilitates AHR nuclear localization and supports a positive feedback loop between AHR and sphingolipid enzyme activity in the nucleus. These findings highlight a novel function of SPHK2 in regulating AHR activity and gene expression.
Motor versus Psychomotor? Deciphering the Neural Source of Psychomotor Retardation in Depression
Authors: Song Xue Mei , Liu Dong‐Yu , Hirjak Dusan , Hu Xi‐Wen , Han Jin‐Fang , Roe Anna Wang , Yao De‐Zhong , Tan Zhong‐Lin , Northoff Georg
Published: August 2024

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is characterized by psychomotor retardation whose underlying neural source remains unclear. Psychomotor retardation may either be related to a motor source like the motor cortex or, alternatively, to a psychomotor source with neural changes outside motor regions, like input regions such as visual cortex. These two alternative hypotheses in main (n = 41) and replication (n = 18) MDD samples using 7 Tesla MRI are investigated. Analyzing both global and local connectivity in primary motor cortex (BA4), motor network and middle temporal visual cortex complex (MT+), the main findings in MDD are: 1) Reduced local and global synchronization and increased local‐to‐global output in motor regions, which do not correlate with psychomotor retardation, though. 2) Reduced local‐to‐local BA4 – MT+ functional connectivity (FC) which correlates with psychomotor retardation. 3) Reduced global synchronization and increased local‐to‐global output in MT+ which relate to psychomotor retardation. 4) Reduced variability in the psychophysical measures of MT+ based motion perception which relates to psychomotor retardation. Together, it is shown that visual cortex MT+ and its relation to motor cortex play a key role in mediating psychomotor retardation. This supports psychomotor over motor hypothesis about the neural source of psychomotor retardation in MDD.
Polymeric Microbubble Shell Engineering: Microporosity as a Key Factor to Enhance Ultrasound Imaging and Drug Delivery Performance
Authors: Moosavifar Mirjavad , Barmin Roman A. , Rama Elena , Rix Anne , Gumerov Rustam A. , Lisson Thomas , Bastard Céline , Rütten Stephan , Avraham‐Radermacher Noah , Koehler Jens , Pohl Michael , Kulkarni Vedangi , Baier Jasmin , Koletnik Susanne , Zhang Rui , Dasgupta Anshuman , Motta Alessandro , Weiler Marek , Potemkin Igor I. , Schmitz Georg , Kiessling Fabian , Lammers Twan , Pallares Roger M.
Published: August 2024

Microbubbles (MB) are widely used as contrast agents for ultrasound (US) imaging and US‐enhanced drug delivery. Polymeric MB are highly suitable for these applications because of their acoustic responsiveness, high drug loading capability, and ease of surface functionalization. While many studies have focused on using polymeric MB for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes, relatively little attention has thus far been paid to improving their inherent imaging and drug delivery features. This study here shows that manipulating the polymer chemistry of poly(butyl cyanoacrylate) (PBCA) MB via temporarily mixing the monomer with the monomer‐mimetic butyl cyanoacetate (BCC) during the polymerization process improves the drug loading capacity of PBCA MB by more than twofold, and the in vitro and in vivo acoustic responses of PBCA MB by more than tenfold. Computer simulations and physisorption experiments show that BCC manipulates the growth of PBCA polymer chains and creates nanocavities in the MB shell, endowing PBCA MB with greater drug entrapment capability and stronger acoustic properties. Notably, because BCC can be readily and completely removed during MB purification, the resulting formulation does not include any residual reagent beyond the ones already present in current PBCA‐based MB products, facilitating the potential translation of next‐generation PBCA MB.
Plant Movement Response to Environmental Mechanical Stimulation Toward Understanding Predator Defense
Authors: Naglich Alex , LeDuc Philip
Published: August 2024

Plants are fascinating living systems, possessing starkly different morphology to mammals, yet they have still evolved ways to defend themselves, consume prey, communicate, and in the case of plants like Mimosa pudica even move in response to a variety of stimuli. The complex physiological pathways driving this are of great interest, though many questions remain. In this work, a known responsive plant, M. pudica is mechanically stimulated, in terms of wounding via removal of pinnae, nonwounding mechanical poking, and nonwounding pulses of air through a designed small nozzle approach. Removal of clusters called pinnae resulted in rapid, asymmetric response in the adjacent pinnae, while mechanical poking and air pulse responses are slower and more localized. Additionally, while the response from poking propagated across the plant, wind stimuli consistently resulted in the actuation of only the leaflets directly stimulated, suggesting unique sensing mechanisms. Mechanical damage may imply a potential predator, while mechanical stimulation from airflow may be processed as wind, which is of little danger. These findings demonstrate an intricate, stimulant‐dependent mechanical sensing process, which is important in plant physiology, mechanobiology, and future biohybrid soft robotic designs.
A Genetically Engineered Biomimetic Nanodecoy for the Treatment of Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Du Yang , Ding Hao , Chen Yining , Gao Bingqiang , Mao Zhengwei , Wang Weilin , Ding Yuan
Published: August 2024

Liver fibrosis, arising from factors such as viral infections or metabolic disorders, represents an ongoing global health challenge and is a major risk factor for hepatocellular carcinoma. Unfortunately, there are no clinically approved drugs available for its treatment. Recent studies have illuminated the pivotal role of macrophage recruitment in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis, presenting a potential therapeutic target. Therefore, it holds great promise to develop novel anti‐fibrotic therapies capable of inhibiting this process. Herein, a drug‐loaded biomimetic nanodecoy (CNV‐C) is developed by harnessing genetically engineered cellular vesicles for the treatment of liver fibrosis. CNV‐C is equipped with a C‐C motif chemokine receptor 2 (CCR2)‐overexpressed surface, enabling it to selectively neutralize elevated levels of C‐C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2), thereby reducing macrophage infiltration and the subsequent production of the fibrogenic cytokine transforming growth factor β (TGF‐β). Moreover, curcumin, an anti‐fibrotic agent, is loaded into CNV‐C and delivered to the liver, facilitating its efficacy in suppressing the activation of hepatic stellate cells by blocking the downstream TGF‐β/Smad signaling. This combinational therapy ultimately culminates in the alleviation of liver fibrosis in a mouse model induced by carbon tetrachloride. Collectively, the findings provide groundbreaking proof‐of‐concept for employing genetically modified nanodecoys to manage liver fibrosis, which may usher in a new era of anti‐fibrotic treatments.
Hypoxic Upregulation of IER2 Increases Paracrine GMFG Signaling of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress‐CAF to Promote Chordoma Progression via Targeting ITGB1
Authors: Zhang Tao‐Lan , Zheng Bo‐Wen , Xia Chao , Wu Peng‐Fei , Zheng Bo‐Yv , Jiang Ling‐Xiang , Li Jing , Lv Guo‐Hua , Zhou Hong , Huang Wei , Zou Ming‐Xiang
Published: August 2024

Currently, the oncogenic mechanism of endoplasmic reticulum stress‐CAF (ERS‐CAF) subpopulation in chordoma remains unknown. Here, single‐cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler, data‐independent acquisition proteomics, bulk RNA‐seq, and multiplexed quantitative immunofluorescence are used to unveil the precise molecular mechanism of how ERS‐CAF affected chordoma progression. Results show that hypoxic microenvironment reprograms CAFs into ERS‐CAF subtype. Mechanistically, this occurrs via hypoxia‐mediated transcriptional upregulation of IER2. Overexpression of IER2 in CAFs promotes chordoma progression, which can be impeded by IER2 knockdown or use of ERS inhibitors. IER2 also induces expression of ERS‐CAF marker genes and results in production of a pro‐tumorigenic paracrine GMFG signaling, which exert its biological function via directly binding to ITGB1 on tumor cells. ITGB1 inhibition attenuates tumor malignant progression, which can be partially reversed by exogenous GMFG intervention. Further analyses reveal a positive correlation between ITGB1high tumor cell counts and SPP1+ macrophage density, as well as the spatial proximity of these two cell types. Clinically, a significant correlation of high IER2/ITGB1 expression with tumor aggressive phenotype and poor patient survival is observed. Collectively, the findings suggest that ERS‐CAF regulates SPP1+ macrophage to aggravate chordoma progression via the IER2/GMFG/ITGB1 axis, which may be targeted therapeutically in future.
Thermal‐Mechanical Coupling Performance of Heat‐Resistant, High‐Strength and Printable Al‐Si Alloy Antisymmetric Lattice Structure
Authors: Yan Jiaqi , Dong Zhicheng , Jia Ben , Zhu Shunshun , Li Guowei , Zheng Yuhao , Huang Heyuan
Published: August 2024

The unsatisfactory mechanical performance at high temperatures limits the broad application of 3D‐printed aluminum alloy structures in extreme environments. This study investigates the mechanical behavior of 4 different lattice cell structures in high‐temperature environments using AlSi12Fe2.5Ni3Mn4, a newly developed, heat‐resistant, high‐strength, and printable alloy. A novel Antisymmetric anti‐Buckling Lattice Cell (ASLC‐B) based on a unique rotation reflection multistage design is developed. Micro‐CT (Computed Tomography) and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscope) analyses revealed a smooth surface and dense interior with an average porosity of less than 0.454%. Quasi‐static compression tests at 25, 100, and 200 °C showed that ASLC‐B outperformed the other 3 lattice types in load‐bearing capacity, energy absorption, and heat transfer efficiency. Specifically, the ASLC‐B demonstrated a 51.56% and 44.14% increase in compression load‐bearing capacity at 100 and 200 °C compared to ASLC‐B(AlSi10Mg), highlighting its excellent high‐temperature mechanical properties. A numerical model based on the Johnson‐Cook constitutive relationship revealed the damage failure mechanisms, showing ASLC‐B's effectiveness in preventing buckling, enhancing load‐transfer efficiency, and reducing stress concentrations. This study emphasizes the importance of improving energy absorption and mechanical performance for structural optimization in extreme conditions. The ASLC‐B design offers significant advancements in maintaining structural integrity and performance under high temperatures.
Ring Transformation of Cyclopropenes to Benzo‐Fused Five‐Membered Oxa‐ and Aza‐Heterocycles via a Formal [4+1] Cyclization
Authors: Gu Fengyan , Lin Binyan , Peng Zhi‐Huan , Liu Shijie , Wu Yuanqing , Luo Mei , Ding Ning , Zhan Qichen , Cao Peng , Zhou Zhi , Cao Tao
Published: August 2024

In the context of the growing importance of heterocyclic compounds across various disciplines, numerous strategies for their construction have emerged. Exploiting the distinctive properties of cyclopropenes, this study introduces an innovative approach for the synthesis of benzo‐fused five‐membered oxa‐ and aza‐heterocycles through a formal [4+1] cyclization and subsequent acid‐catalyzed intramolecular O‐ to N‐ rearrangement. These transformations exhibit mild reaction conditions and a wide substrate scope. The applications in the late‐stage modification of complex molecules and in the synthesis of a potential PD‐L1 gene down‐regulator, make this method highly appealing in related fields. Combined experimental mechanistic studies and DFT calculations demonstrate Rh(III)‐mediated sequential C─H coupling/π‐allylation/dynamically favorable O‐attack route.
Polar Metallicity Controlled by Epitaxial Strain Engineering
Authors: Dong Mingdong , Zhang Yichi , Cao Jing‐ming , Chen Haowen , Lu Qiyang , Wang Hong‐fei , Wu Jie
Published: August 2024

The discovery of polar metal opens the door to incorporating electric polarization into electronics with the potential to invigorate next‐generation multifunctional electronic devices. Especially, electric polarization can be induced by geometric design in non‐polar perovskite oxides. Here, the epitaxial strain exerted on the deposited single‐crystalline NdNiO3 thin films is systematically varied in both sign and amplitude by choosing substrates with different lattice mismatch. The pseudocubic NdNiO3(111) film, which is non‐polar in its bulk state, is induced to be polar under both compressive and tensile strain. The fine‐tuning of epitaxial strain is realized by continuously varying the film thickness using the “thickness‐wedge” growth technique, and from the elucidated thickness dependence, the electric polarization and metallicity can be further optimized. Moreover, transitioning from isotropic to anisotropic epitaxial strain gives rise to an ideal polar metal state in the pseudocubic NdNiO3(102) film on an orthorhombic substrate, achieving a remarkably low resistivity of 173 µΩ cm at room temperature. The metal–insulator transition in NdNiO3 is completely suppressed and the polar metal state becomes the ground state at all temperatures. These results demonstrate alluring possibilities of induction and manipulation of both electric polarization and electric transport properties in functional perovskite oxides by epitaxial strain engineering.
Boosting Zn‐Ion Storage Behavior of Pre‐Intercalated MXene with Black Phosphorus toward Self‐Powered Systems
Authors: Fang Cuiqin , Han Jing , Yang Qingjun , Gao Zhenguo , Tan Di , Chen Tiandi , Xu Bingang
Published: August 2024

MXene‐based Zn‐ion capacitors (ZICs) with adsorption‐type and battery‐type electrodes demonstrate high energy storage and anti‐self‐discharge capabilities, potentially being paired with triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) to construct self‐powered systems. Nevertheless, inadequate interlayer spacing, deficient active sites, and compact self‐restacking of MXene flakes pose hurdles for MXene‐based ZICs, limiting their applications. Herein, black phosphorus (BP)‐Zn‐MXene hybrid is formulated for MXene‐based ZIC via a two‐step molecular engineering strategy of Zn‐ion pre‐intercalation and BP nanosheet assembly. Zn ions as intercalators induce cross‐linking of MXene flakes with expandable interlayer spacing to serve as scaffolds for BP nanosheets, thereby providing sufficient accessible active sites and efficient migration routes for enhanced Zn‐ion storage. The density functional theory calculations affirm that zinc adsorption and diffusion kinetics are significantly improved in the hybrid. A wearable ZIC with the hybrid delivers a competitive areal energy of 426.3 µWh cm−2 and ultra‐low self‐discharge rate of 7.0 mV h−1, achieving remarkable electrochemical matching with TENGs in terms of low energy loss, matched capacity, and fast Zn‐ion storage. The resultant self‐powered system efficiently collects and stores energy from human motion to power microelectronics. This work advances the Zn‐ion storage of MXene‐based ZICs and their synergy with TENG in self‐powered systems.
Dynamics of Highly Active Ln3IrO7 Catalysts for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Acid
Authors: Edgington Jane , Vicente Rafael , Vispute Sejal , Li Ruihan , Sweers Matthew E. , Sullivan Simone R. , Fernandez Pablo S. , Seitz Linsey C.
Published: August 2024

An improved understanding of catalyst dynamics for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in acid is critical for informing the development of highly efficient, stable, and cost‐effective OER catalysts for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis applications. Herein highly tunable, active, and dynamic Ir 5+ materials are studied, Ln3IrO7 (Ln = Pr, Nd, Sm, and Eu). Leveraging a combination of in situ and ex situ characterization, as well as an advanced mercury underpotential deposition technique for Ir surface site quantification, the dynamic nature of Ln3IrO7 materials throughout electrochemical activation under OER conditions is characterized. The trends are elucidated between intrinsic OER activity, surface Ir site quantity, and metal site dissolution behavior as tuned by the Ln site's atomic number. A critical relationship is uncovered to show that maintenance of excellent OER activity throughout performance testing is correlated with a catalysts’ ability to preserve a high degree of Ir enrichment, where heightened stability of Ir sites interestingly parallels reduced stability of Ln sites throughout testing. It is found that as the Ln site's atomic number is decreased, the materials’ intrinsic OER performance improves, due to an increased thermodynamic driving force for Ln dissolution, which is hypothesized to enable the maintenance of highly active Ir‐based surface motifs.
Four‐Helix Triboelectric Nanogenerator Based on Wave Amplitude Amplifier
Authors: Zhou Weiyu , Tuo Liang , Tang Wei , Wen Honggui , Chen Chunjin , Ning Heng , Long Siyu , Wan Lingyu , Liu Guanlin , Wang Zhong Lin
Published: August 2024

Deploying triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) units on and below the water surface has been a conventional method for harvesting wave energy. However, this approach restricts the TENG's amplitude to that of the water waves, limiting the actual offshore output. Here, a new method of placing TENG units above the water surface using a wave amplitude amplifier is reported. This addresses the issue of insufficient amplitude in traditional wave energy TENGs and achieves higher electrical output performance in real offshore conditions. Moreover, the innovative four‐helix TENG (FH‐TENG), designed with special pattern cutting and bridging techniques, eliminates the need for internal wires, foundational frameworks, and counterweights. Results show that FH‐TENG placed on the amplitude amplifier achieves over a 76% increase in amplitude and a 235% enhancement in charge output compared to FH‐TENG floating directly on the water surface, and the maximum output voltage, transferred charge and output current reach 246 V, 7.9 µC, and 156.1 µA, respectively. Importantly, when deployed in real marine environments, this system generates more electric energy than in a lab pool under the same peak wave height, providing a reliable power supply solution. This work establishes a precedent for deploying lightweight wave energy TENGs above the water surface.
Enhancing Efficiency and Durability of Alkaline Zn‐Co/Air Hybrid Batteries with Self‐Reconstructed Co/Co2P Heterojunctions
Authors: Xu Zhuying , Chen Jie , Zhang Tianyu , Lu Haidan , Yan Lei , Ning Jiqiang , Hu Yong
Published: August 2024

Zn‐Co/air hybrid batteries showcase enhanced energy efficiency, power density, and stability compared to Zn‐air batteries. Nevertheless, it remains challenging to fabricate multi‐functional cathode materials with fast reaction kinetics. Herein the synthesis of a wheat‐like cathode composed of the “cereal‐grains” of densely arranged Co/Co2P heterostructures grown on the “central stems” of P/N codoped carbon nanofibers (denoted as Co/Co2P@PNCF) is presented. The biomimetic nanostructures not only offer abundant exposed active sites to maximize accessibility but also establish efficient multi‐channel networks for both electron transfer and O2/OH− diffusion. Furthermore, the active species of high‐valent Co, resulting from self‐reconstruction of the Co/Co2P heterojunction during the first cycle, create efficient Co2+ ↔ Co4+ redox pairs and provide additional charging‐discharging voltage plateaus. In situ Raman spectroscopy measurement combined with ex situ X‐ray diffraction evidence supports the reversible process of Co3+/4+Ox(OH)y ↔ KxCo2+/3+Oy, leading to improved efficiency and durability of the battery. As a result, Zn‐Co/air hybrid battery based on the Co/Co2P@PNCF exhibits a remarkable power density (321 mW cm−2), ultralong cycle stability (700 h), and a large energy efficiency (62% at 20 mA cm−2).
Comparison of surgical outcomes and postoperative nutritional parameters between subtotal and proximal gastrectomy in patients with proximal early gastric cancer
Authors: Soneda Wataru , Terashima Masanori , Koseki Yusuke , Furukawa Kenichiro , Fujiya Keiichi , Tanizawa Yutaka , Takeuchi Hiroya , Bando Etsuro
Published: August 2024

Aim

In this study, we evaluated the difference in short‐term outcomes and postoperative nutritional status between subtotal gastrectomy (sTG) and proximal gastrectomy (PG) to determine the optimal surgical treatment for early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach.

Methods

Patients who underwent laparoscopic or robotic sTG or PG at the Shizuoka Cancer Center in Shizuoka between January 2014 and December 2020 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Patient characteristics, surgical outcomes, endoscopic findings, and postoperative nutritional changes, including blood tests, body weight, psoas muscle, and subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue, were measured and compared between the two groups.

Results

A total of 110 patients were enrolled, including 42 in the sTG group and 68 in the PG group. Albumin and hemoglobin levels were comparable between the two groups. Changes in body weight and psoas mass index measured over 36 months postoperatively were favorable in the sTG group compared with the PG group (p = 0.005 and p = 0.002, respectively). There were no significant differences in subcutaneous or visceral adipose tissue between the two groups (p = 0.331 and 0.845, respectively).

Conclusion

sTG is the preferred function‐preserving gastrectomy procedure for early gastric cancer in the upper third of the stomach because it is associated with less postoperative body weight loss and psoas mass index loss.
Deletions in the CDKL5 5′ untranslated region lead to CDKL5 deficiency disorder
Authors: Haviland Isabel , Hector Ralph D. , Swanson Lindsay C. , Verran Aubrie Soucy , Sherrill Emma , Frazier Zoë , Denny AnneMarie M. , Lucash Jenna , Zhang Bo , Dubbs Holly A. , Marsh Eric D. , Weisenberg Judith L. , Leonard Helen , Crippa Milena , Cogliati Francesca , Russo Silvia , Suter Bernhard , Rajaraman Rajsekar , Percy Alan K. , Schreiber John M. , Demarest Scott , Benke Timothy A. , Chopra Maya , Yu Timothy W. , Olson Heather E.
Published: August 2024

Pathogenic variants in the cyclin‐dependent kinase‐like 5 (CDKL5) gene are associated with CDKL5 deficiency disorder (CDD), a severe X‐linked developmental and epileptic encephalopathy. Deletions affecting the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) of CDKL5, which involve the noncoding exon 1 and/or alternatively spliced first exons (exons 1a–e), are uncommonly reported. We describe genetic and phenotypic characteristics for 15 individuals with CDKL5 partial gene deletions affecting the 5′ UTR. All individuals presented characteristic features of CDD, including medically refractory infantile‐onset epilepsy, global developmental delay, and visual impairment. We performed RNA sequencing on fibroblast samples from three individuals with small deletions involving exons 1 and/or 1a/1b only. Results demonstrated reduced CDKL5 mRNA expression with no evidence of expression from alternatively spliced first exons. Our study broadens the genotypic spectrum for CDD by adding to existing evidence that deletions affecting the 5′ UTR of the CDKL5 gene are associated with the disorder. We propose that smaller 5′ UTR deletions may require additional molecular testing approaches such as RNA sequencing to determine pathogenicity.
Comparing transabdominal and transvaginal cervical length measurements at mid‐trimester fetal anomaly scan: The impact of bladder fullness and lower uterine contractions
Authors: Beaver Heidi , Lanzarone Valeria , Low Gary KK
Published: August 2024

Purpose

To assess the effects of bladder fullness and lower uterine contractions ultrasound on transabdominal and transvaginal cervical length measurements at the mid‐trimester fetal anomaly scan (FAS).

Methods

Transabdominal and transvaginal cervical length measurements from 925 mid‐trimester FAS examinations were retrospectively analysed. Images were assessed for lower uterine contraction and bladder fullness using a novel qualitative assessment. Bland–Altman plots and single‐score interclass correlation (ICC) were used to determine correlation between transabdominal and transvaginal measurements. Sensitivity and specificity of transabdominal cut‐offs were calculated.

Results

Transabdominal and transvaginal measurements of the cervix correlated poorly (ICC 0.306). An overfilled bladder and lower uterine contractions on average increased the length of transabdominal cervical length measurements. Removing these variables did not significantly improve correlation between transabdominal and transvaginal measurements of the cervix but resulted in an improved sensitivity of transabdominal assessment to detect a clinically relevant short cervix.

Discussion

Resolving the confounding factors of an overfilled bladder and lower uterine contractions can help improve the our ability to detect a short cervix on transabdominal ultrasound. Our data set supported a two‐stage approach to cervical length screening which would allow 100% sensitivity when a cut‐off of ≤35 mm is used on transabdominal ultrasound and would limit the need for transvaginal scanning to approximately 39% of patients. This cut‐off is in line with the findings of other studies. The low prevalence of short cervix in our study did however make it difficult to extrapolate reliable calculations.

Conclusion

Although transabdominal measurements correlate poorly with transvaginal measurements of the cervix, we demonstrated an improved sensitivity for detecting a short cervix using a transabdominal approach when no contractions or overfilled bladder is present. This potential could be explored in a future study with a larger sample size.
Refractory cardiogenic shock due to atomoxetine overdose rescued by venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A case report
Authors: Komoriya Kenta , Kitagawa Kanta , Mihara Yutaka , Hagiwara Kei , Hatanaka Yasuhito , Hikone Mayu , Sugiyama Kazuhiro
Published: August 2024

Background

Atomoxetine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor for attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder, may lead to severe complications, notably cardiac issues, upon overdose. We present a unique case of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) rescue for atomoxetine‐induced cardiogenic shock.

Case Presentation

We report a 30‐year‐old man who, after ingesting a significant overdose of atomoxetine, experienced seizures and severe cardiogenic shock, necessitating VA‐ECMO for resuscitation. While prior reports have noted cardiovascular complications like QTc prolongation and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy following atomoxetine overdose, this case is notable for its life‐threatening circulatory failure, which required ECMO intervention. Swift recognition coupled with VA‐ECMO initiation, endoscopic medication removal, intravenous lipid emulsion, and activated charcoal may have played a pivotal role in stabilizing the patient and facilitating recovery.

Conclusion

Healthcare practitioners should recognize the severe cardiac complications of atomoxetine overdose. Careful monitoring with ECG and echocardiography, along with providing intensive care, is crucial in managing critical cases.
Vascular type Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome with intra‐abdominal hemorrhage due to ruptured hepatic aneurysm: A case report
Authors: Tanaka Masaou , Ueda Kentaro , Yonemitsu Takafumi , Tamura Shinobu , Ikoma Akira , Sonomura Tetsuo , Inoue Shigeaki
Published: August 2024

Background

Vascular Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome has a high mortality rate due to hemorrhagic complications.

Case Presentation

We report a case of vascular‐type Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome diagnosed due to rupture of multiple celiac aneurysms. The patient was a 25‐year‐old Japanese man with a history of a sigmoid perforation. He was admitted to a nearby hospital because of abdominal pain. On day 9 of hospitalization, the patient experienced shock. Enhanced abdominal computed tomography revealed a hepatic aneurysm and intra‐abdominal bleeding, and the patient was transferred to our hospital. Emergency abdominal angiography revealed multiple aneurysms in the celiac, common, and right hepatic arteries. The right hepatic artery was considered responsible and was embolized. The patient had characteristic physical findings of the syndrome, aiding in confirming the genetic analysis of COL3A1 gene abnormality.

Conclusion

Juvenile‐onset colonic perforation and rupture of the celiac arteries are key findings in the suspicion of vascular‐type Ehlers‐Danlos syndrome.