bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrafast Exciton Dissociation in Block Copolymer toward Efficient Single Material Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Li Tao , Li Bin , Zhou Haoxiang , Wang Jun , Ni Gang , Ma Wanli , Sheng Chuanxiang , Yuan Jianyu , Zhao Haibin
Published: November 2023

The study reports for the first time on the ultrafast dynamics of charge transfer (CT) and exciton dissociation in block copolymer PBDB‐T‐b‐PTY6‐based state‐of‐the‐art single‐material organic solar cells (SMOSCs). From the transient absorption spectroscopy of the dilute PBDB‐T‐b‐PTY6 in the insulating polystyrene, exciton dissociation and hole transfer (HT) processes at the intramolecular interface of covalent linkage between the donor and acceptor segment are achieved. In comparison to the charge generation in blend PBDB‐T:PTY6 films, it is found that the HT rate in the isolated block copolymer chain via the intramolecular channel is approximately an order of magnitude higher than that via the intermolecular channel. Much faster exciton dissociation in the dilute PBDB‐T‐b‐PTY6 film than in the blend film from electro‐absorption and polaron‐absorption signals is also verified. The intrachain chemical interface in the block copolymer is thus more conducive to the HT path than the traditional interface in the bulk heterojunction. Moreover, though the PBDB‐T‐b‐PTY6 film has weak molecular ordering, its overall CT efficiency is comparable to that of the PBDB‐T:PTY6 film. These findings portend that further molecular design with optimized ordering toward fast intramolecular exciton dissociation may contribute to SMOSCs with higher power conversion efficiency.
Biocompatible Ferrofluid‐Based Millirobot for Tumor Photothermal Therapy in Near‐Infrared‐II Window
Authors: Ji Yiming , Bai Xue , Sun Hongyan , Wang Luyao , Gan Chunyuan , Jia Lina , Xu Junjie , Zhang Wei , Wang Liang , Xu Yingchen , Hou Yaxin , Wang Yinyan , Hui Hui , Feng Lin
Published: November 2023

Ferrofluidic robots with excellent deformability and controllability have been intensively studied recently. However, most of these studies are in vitro and the use of ferrofluids for in vivo medicinal applications remains a big challenge. The application of ferrofluidic robots to the body requires the solution of many key problems. In this study, biocompatibility, controllability, and tumor‐killing efficacy are considered when creating a ferrofluid‐based millirobot for in vivo tumor‐targeted therapy. For biocompatibility problems, corn oil is used specifically for the ferrofluid robot. In addition, a control system is built that enables a 3D magnetic drive to be implemented in complex biological media. Using the photothermal conversion property of 1064 nm, the ferrofluid robot can kill tumor cells in vitro; inhibit tumor volume, destroy the tumor interstitium, increase tumor cell apoptosis, and inhibit tumor cell proliferation in vivo. This study provides a reference for ferrofluid‐based millirobots to achieve targeted therapies in vivo.
CeO2 Nanoparticles to Promote Wound Healing: A Systematic Review
Authors: Xue Yijia , Yang Fan , Wu Likun , Xia Dandan , Liu Yunsong
Published: November 2023

Cerium (Ce) is a hot topic in the field of materials research due to its electronic layer structure and the unique antioxidant abilities of its oxide (CeO2). Cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2 NPs) demonstrate their potential as an antioxidant and antibacterial agent. Current research focuses on whether they can be used to promote wound healing and in what manner. This article provides a systematic review of the various forms of CeO2 NPs that are used in wound‐healing materials over the past decade, as well as the effectiveness demonstrated by in vivo and in vitro experiments, with a focus on the relationship between concentration and effectiveness. CeO2 NPs are expected to become effective ingredients in dressings that require antibacterial, antioxidant, and wound healing promoting properties. This article serves as a reference for further research and clinical applications of nano‐sized CeO2 in wound healing.
Macrophage Membrane‐Modified MoS2 Quantum Dots as a Nanodrug for Combined Multi‐Targeting of Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Qi Xiating , Li Lianxin , Ye Pengkun , Xie Meng
Published: November 2023

The complex pathological mechanism of Alzheimer's disease (AD) limits the efficacy of simple drug therapy, and drugs are difficult to penetrate the blood‐brain barrier (BBB). Therefore, it is a breakthrough to enhance the therapeutic effect of AD by rationally using multiple therapeutic strategies to inhibit multiple pathological targets. In this study, macrophage membrane (MM) with active targeting inflammation function is used to functionalize molybdenum disulfide quantum dots (MoS2 QDs) with the properties of elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and anti‐Aβ1‐42 deposition to form the nano drug (MoS2 QDs/MM), and play the role of multi‐target combined therapy with NIR. The results show that MoS2 QDs/MM has a targeted therapeutic effect on ROS elimination and anti‐deposition of Aβ1‐42. In addition, the combined therapy group effectively reduced Aβ1‐42 mediated cytotoxicity. The modification of MM could effectively target the brain, and NIR irradiation could actively increase the cross of BBB of materials. In vivo behavioral study also show that APP/PS1 mice in the combined treatment group showed the similar exploration desire and learning ability to mice in the group of WT. MoS2 QDs/MM is an excellent nano drug with multiple effects, which has advantages in the field of neurological diseases with crisscross pathogenesis.
Activating Tumor‐Selective Liquid Metal Nanomedicine through Galvanic Replacement
Authors: Yan Junjie , Wang Jinqiang , Wang Xinyu , Pan Donghui , Su Chen , Wang Junxia , Wang Mengzhen , Xiong Jianjun , Chen Yu , Wang Lizhen , Xu Yuping , Chen Chongyang , Yang Min , Gu Zhen
Published: November 2023

Advanced chemotherapeutic strategies including prodrug and nanocatalytic medicine have significantly advanced tumor‐selective theranostics, but delicate prodrug screening, tedious synthesis, low degradability/biocompatibility of inorganic components, and unsatisfied reaction activity complicate treatment efficacies. Here, the intrinsic anticancer bioactivity of liquid metal nanodroplets (LMNDs) is explored through galvanic replacement. By utilizing a mechano‐degradable ligand, the resultant size of the aqueous LMND is unexpectedly controlled as small as ≈20 nm (LMND20). It is demonstrated that LMND20 presents excellent tumor penetration and biocompatibility and activates tumor‐selective carrier‐to‐drug conversion, synchronously depleting Cu2+ ions and producing Ga3+ ions through galvanic replacement. Together with abundant generation of reactive oxygen species, multiple anticancer pathways lead to selective apoptosis and anti‐angiogenesis of breast cancer cells. Compared to the preclinical/clinical anticancer drugs of tetrathiomolybdate and Ga(NO3)3, LMND20 administration significantly improves the therapeutic efficacy and survival in a BCap‐37 xenograft mouse model, yet without obvious side effects.
Injectable Supramolecular Hydrogels for In Situ Programming of Car‐T Cells toward Solid Tumor Immunotherapy
Authors: Zhu Chunyan , Ke Lingjie , Ao Xiang , Chen Ying , Cheng Hongwei , Xin Huhu , Xu Xiang , Loh Xian‐Jun , Li Zibiao , Lyu Haiyan , Wang Qi , Zhang Dandan , Ping Yuan , Wu Caisheng , Wu Yun‐Long
Published: November 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell immunotherapy is approved in the treatment of hematological malignancies, but remains far from satisfactory in solid tumor treatment due to inadequate intra‐tumor CAR‐T cell infiltration. Herein, an injectable supramolecular hydrogel system, based on self‐assembly between cationic polymer mPEG‐PCL‐PEI (PPP) conjugated with T cell targeting anti‐CD3e f(ab')2 fragment and α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD), is designed to load plasmid CAR (pCAR) with a T cell specific CD2 promoter, which successfully achieves in situ fabrication and effective accumulation of CAR‐T cells at the tumor site in humanized mice models. More importantly, due to this tumor microenvironment reprogramming, secretion of cellular inflammatory cytokines (interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)) or tumor killer protein granzyme B is significantly promoted, which reverses the immunosuppressive microenvironment and significantly enhances the intra‐tumor CAR‐T cells and cytotoxic T cells infiltration. To the best of the current knowledge, this is a pioneer report of using injectable supramolecular hydrogel for in situ reprogramming CAR‐T cells, which might be beneficial for solid tumor CAR‐T immunotherapy.
High Performance Self‐Driven Photodetectors Based on MoS2 Schottky Barrier Diode
Authors: Dai Mengde , Wu Qianqian , Wang Chenglin , Liu Xingyu , Zhang Xiumei , Cai Zhengyang , Lin Liangliang , Gu Xiaofeng , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken) , Nan Haiyan , Xiao Shaoqing
Published: November 2023

Practical application of two‐dimensional transition metal dichalcogenides (2D TMDCs) involves creating a p‐n diode and a Schottky diode. Unlike p‐n diodes, the research of 2D material‐based Schottky diodes especially in the application field of photodetectors is lacking. Here, a Schottky diode is fabricated by depositing Pt and Ni on the MoS2 to form Schottky and ohmic contacts, respectively. The MoS2 Schottky diode exhibits a rectification ratio of 2.36 × 103 and an ideality factor of 1.12. The electrical characteristics of Ni‐MoS2‐Ni and Pt‐MoS2‐Pt field effect transistors are systematically compared. The Schottky barrier height is estimated to be 94.2 meV by using the thermionic emission theory. The Schottky diode device can exhibit excellent self‐powered photodetection performance in the visible to near‐infrared region (447‐940 nm) due to the strong built‐in electric field originating from the Schottky barrier at the MoS2/Pt interface. The maximum detectivity reaches 2.09 × 1012 Jones with a response time of 52.6 ms under 940 nm laser illumination. Furthermore, the photodetection performance of such a Schottky diode can be further improved by NH3 plasma doping treatment. This work provides not only a simple approach to construct a 2D materials‐based Schottky diode photodetector but also a post treatment technique to further improve the device performance.
Synthesis of Multifunctionalized Thiazolidine‐4‐thiones via [2+2+1] Annulation of Isothiocyanates and CF3‐Imidoyl Sulfoxonium Ylides
Authors: Ding Yuhao , Guo Hailin , Fan Jingwen , Li Zhiyong , Cheng Guolin
Published: November 2023

2‐Iminothiazolidin‐4‐one, 5‐ethylidenethiazolidin‐4‐one, and thiazolidine‐4‐thione are all medicinally relevant structures. In this work, a NaSO2CF3‐promoted [2+2+1] cascade annulation reaction of CF3‐imidoyl sulfoxonium ylides and isothiocyanates was reported to synthesize a variety of decorated thiazolidine‐4‐thiones in 35–91% yields with exclusive stereoselectivity. The gram‐scale reaction and further chemoselectiveS‐alkylations demonstrated the synthetic utilities of this transformation.
Spatial Mechano‐Signaling Regulation of GTPases through Non‐Degradative Ubiquitination
Authors: Sewduth Raj N. , Carai Paolo , Ivanisevic Tonci , Zhang Mingzhen , Jang Hyunbum , Lechat Benoit , Van Haver Delphi , Impens Francis , Nussinov Ruth , Jones Elizabeth , Sablina Anna
Published: November 2023

Blood flow produces shear stress exerted on the endothelial layer of the vessels. Spatial characterization of the endothelial proteome is required to uncover the mechanisms of endothelial activation by shear stress, as blood flow varies in the vasculature. An integrative ubiquitinome and proteome analysis of shear‐stressed endothelial cells demonstrated that the non‐degradative ubiquitination of several GTPases is regulated by mechano‐signaling. Spatial analysis reveals increased ubiquitination of the small GTPase RAP1 in the descending aorta, a region exposed to laminar shear stress. The ubiquitin ligase WWP2 is identified as a novel regulator of RAP1 ubiquitination during shear stress response. Non‐degradative ubiquitination fine‐tunes the function of GTPases by modifying their interacting network. Specifically, WWP2‐mediated RAP1 ubiquitination at lysine 31 switches the balance from the RAP1/ Talin 1 (TLN1) toward RAP1/ Afadin (AFDN) or RAP1/ RAS Interacting Protein 1 (RASIP1) complex formation, which is essential to suppress shear stress‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and maintain endothelial barrier integrity. Increased ROS production in endothelial cells in the descending aorta of endothelial‐specificWwp2‐knockout mice leads to increased levels of oxidized lipids and inflammation. These results highlight the importance of the spatially regulated non‐degradative ubiquitination of GTPases in endothelial mechano‐activation.
Angular‐Momentum Transfer Mediated by a Vibronic‐Bound‐State
Authors: Pai Yun‐Yi , Marvinney Claire E. , Pokharel Ganesh , Xing Jie , Li Haoxiang , Li Xun , Chilcote Michael , Brahlek Matthew , Lindsay Lucas , Miao Hu , Sefat Athena S. , Parker David , Wilson Stephen D. , Gardner Jason S. , Liang Liangbo , Lawrie Benjamin J.
Published: November 2023

The notion that phonons can carry pseudo‐angular momentum has many major consequences, including topologically protected phonon chirality, Berry curvature of phonon band structure, and the phonon Hall effect. When a phonon is resonantly coupled to an orbital state split by its crystal field environment, a so‐called vibronic bound state forms. Here, a vibronic bound state is observed in NaYbSe2, a quantum spin liquid candidate. In addition, field and polarization dependent Raman microscopy is used to probe an angular momentum transfer of ΔJz = ±ℏ between phonons and the crystalline electric field mediated by the vibronic bound stat. This angular momentum transfer between electronic and lattice subsystems provides new pathways for selective optical addressability of phononic angular momentum via electronic ancillary states.
A Self‐Assemble Supramolecular Film with Humidity Visualization Enabled by Clusteroluminescence
Authors: Chen Xiang , Hu Chenxi , Wang Yang , Li Ting , Jiang Jie , Huang Jing , Wang Shibo , Dong Weifu , Qiao Jinliang
Published: November 2023

Clusteroluminescence (CL) has recently gained significant attention due to its unique through‐space interactions associated with a high dependence on the aggregation of subgroups. These distinct features could easily transform the stimuli into visual fluorescence and monitor the fluctuation of the environment but have not received sufficient attention before. In this work, supramolecular films are designed based on the neutralization reaction of anhydride groups and the self‐assembly of dynamic covalent disulfide bonds in NaOH aqueous solution. The self‐assembly of hydrophilic carboxylate chromophores and hydrophobic disulfide‐containing five‐membered rings could be observed by the variation of the aggregation state of carboxylate in CL. Furthermore, the dynamic cross‐linking films obtained with water‐sensitive carboxylate chromophores could alter the aggregation distance stimulated by surrounding water vapor, causing the emission wavelength to change from 534 to 508 nm by varying the relative humidity. This work not only provides an approach to monitor the self‐assembly of clusteroluminogens but also offers new strategies for designing stimuli‐responsive materials that utilize the intrinsic features of CL.
New Template Synthesis of Anomalously Large Capacity Hard Carbon for Na‐ and K‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Igarashi Daisuke , Tanaka Yoko , Kubota Kei , Tatara Ryoichi , Maejima Hayato , Hosaka Tomooki , Komaba Shinichi
Published: November 2023

Hard carbon (HC) is a promising negative‐electrode material for Na‐ion batteries. HC electrochemically stores Na+ ions, resulting in a non‐stoichiometric chemical composition depending on their nanoscale structure, including the carbon framework, and interstitial pores. Therefore, optimizing these structures for Na storage by altering the synthesis conditions can enhance the capacity of Na‐ion batteries. In this study, HCs using MgO, ZnO, and CaCO3 as nanopore templates are systematically investigated, and the ZnO template is found to be particularly effective. By optimizing the concentration of ZnO embedded in the carbon matrix, utilizing a blend of zinc gluconate, and zinc acetate as starting materials, the optimal ZnO‐template HC demonstrates a reversible capacity of 464 mAh g−1 (corresponding to NaC4.8) with high initial coulombic efficiency of 91.7% and low average potential of 0.18 V versus Na+/Na. Thus, a Na‐ion battery full cell consisting of Na5/6Ni1/3Fe1/6Mn1/6Ti1/3O2 and the optimized ZnO‐template HC demonstrates a remarkable energy density of 312 Wh kg−1, comparable to that of a Li‐ion battery with LiFePO4 and graphite. Moreover, the ZnO‐template HC in a K half‐cell also displays a significant capacity of 381 mAh g−1, that is, KC5.8 where the alkali content is higher than stage‐1 graphite intercalation compounds, LiC6 and KC8.
Understanding Lattice Oxygen Redox Behavior in Lithium‐Rich Manganese‐Based Layered Oxides for Lithium‐Ion and Lithium‐Metal Batteries from Reaction Mechanisms to Regulation Strategies
Authors: Shen Chao , Hu Libin , Duan Qiming , Liu Xiaoyu , Huang Shoushuang , Jiang Yong , Li Wenrong , Zhao Bing , Sun Xueliang , Zhang Jiujun
Published: November 2023

Lithium‐rich manganese‐based layered oxides (LMLOs) are considered to be one type of the most promising materials for next‐generation cathodes of lithium batteries due to their distinctive anionic redox processes contributing ultrahigh capacity and energy density. Unfortunately, their practical applications are still plagued by several challenges such as undesirable interfacial reactions and structural evolution, as well as voltage hysteresis/recession, in which irreversible anionic redox behavior bears the brunt as the primacy factor. Undoubtedly, a deep understanding of anionic redox reaction mechanisms and irreversible behavior of oxygen species is crucial in order to provide essential guidance for modification strategies for LMLOs. In this paper, the fundamental understanding of intricate anionic redox reaction mechanisms from thermodynamics models to kinetic anionic redox reaction pathways is comprehensively reviewed, and the existing challenges of LMLOs related with irreversible oxygen reaction behavior are analyzed. Furthermore, numerous representative modification strategies for overcoming these challenges, coupled with their underlying mechanisms for regulating anionic redox reversibility are summarized. In addition, the aspects of multi‐scale structural modifications, integration of interdisciplinary technologies, and application in quasi‐/all‐solid‐state battery systems are given some emphasis in terms of further improvement of LMLOs‐based cathode materials for advanced lithium batteries‐based energy storage systems.
Predicting ADHD in alcohol dependence using polygenic risk scores for ADHD
Authors: Patel Kejal H. S. , Walters G. Bragi , Stefánsson Hreinn , Stefánsson Kári , Degenhardt Franziska , Nothen Markus , Van Der Veen Tracey , Demontis Ditte , Borglum Anders , Kristiansen Mark , Bass Nicholas J. , McQuillin Andrew
Published: November 2023

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with a high degree of comorbidity, including substance misuse. We aimed to assess whether ADHD polygenic risk scores (PRS) could predict ADHD diagnosis in alcohol dependence (AD). ADHD PRS were generated for 1223 AD subjects with ADHD diagnosis information and 1818 healthy controls. ADHD PRS distributions were compared to evaluate the differences between healthy controls and AD cases with and without ADHD. We found increased ADHD PRS means in the AD cohort with ADHD (mean 0.30, standard deviation (SD) 0.92; p = 3.9 × 10−6); and without ADHD (mean − 0.00, SD 1.00; p = 5.2 × 10−5) compared to the healthy control subjects (mean − 0.17, SD 0.99). The ADHD PRS means differed within the AD group with a higher ADHD PRS mean in those with ADHD, odds ratio (OR) 1.34, confidence interval (CI) 1.10 to 1.65; p = 0.002. This study showed a positive relationship between ADHD PRS and risk of ADHD in individuals with co‐occurring AD indicating that ADHD PRS may have utility in identifying individuals that are at a higher or lower risk of ADHD. Further larger studies need to be conducted to confirm the reliability of the results before ADHD PRS can be considered as a robust biomarker for diagnosis.
Generation of Aromatic N‐Heterocyclic Radicals for Functionalization of Unactivated Alkenes
Authors: Wang Lu , Shi Minxu , Chen Xiaoping , Su Nicholas , Luo Weili , Zhang Xiaheng
Published: November 2023

Nitrogen‐centered radicals (NCRs) have been widely recognized as versatile synthetic intermediates for the construction of nitrogen containing molecules of high value. As such, there has been a long‐standing interest in the field of organic synthesis to develop novel nitrogen‐based radicals and explore their inherent reactivity. In this study, we present the generation of aromatic N‐heterocyclic radicals and their application in a novel and diverse functionalization of unactivated alkenes. Bench‐stable aromatic N‐heterocyclic pyridinium salts were employed as crucial NCR precursors, which enabled the efficient conversion of various unactivated alkenes into medicinally relevant alkylated N‐heterocyclic amines. This approach offers an unexplored retrosynthetic disconnection for the synthesis of related molecules that commonly possess therapeutic value. Furthermore, this platform can be extended to the synthesis of densely functionalized heterocyclic amines by utilizing disulfides and diethyl bromomalonate as radical quenchers. Mechanistic investigations indicate an energy transfer (EnT) pathway involving the formation of a transient aromatic N‐heterocyclic radical, radical addition to unactivated alkenes, and subsequent generation of the amination product through either hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) or radical addition processes.
Dual‐Catalysed Intermolecular Reductive Coupling of Dienes and Ketones**
Authors: Mayerhofer Victor J. , Lippolis Martina , Teskey Christopher J.
Published: November 2023

We report a mild, catalytic method for the intermolecular reductive coupling of feedstock dienes and styrenes with ketones. Our conditions allow concomitant formation of a cobalt hydride species and single‐electron reduction of ketones. Subsequent selective hydrogen‐atom transfer from the cobalt hydride generates an allylic radical which can selectively couple with the persistent radical‐anion of the ketone. This radical‐radical coupling negates unfavourable steric interactions of ionic pathways and avoids the unstable alkoxy radical of previous radical olefin‐carbonyl couplings, which were limited, as a result, to aldehydes. Applications of this novel and straightforward approach include the efficient synthesis of drug molecules, key intermediates in drug synthesis and site‐selective late‐stage functionalisation.
Synthesis of ionic liquid modified 1‐D nanomaterial and its strategical distribution into the biodegradable binary polymer matrix to get reduced electrical percolation threshold and electromagnetic interference shielding effectiveness
Authors: Nath Krishnendu , Ghosh Suman Kumar , Das Palash , Katheria Ankur , Das Narayan Chandra
Published: November 2023

Ionic liquid is increasingly being used as a chemical modulator of multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT). Here, we report the practical method for producing biodegradable electromagnetic interference (EMI) shield films made of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), polybutylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate (PBAT), and 1‐(2‐aminoethyl)‐3‐methyl‐1H‐imidazol‐3‐ium modified MWCNT (MIL). The field emission scanning electron microscopy study of cryo‐fractured 50:50 PBAT/TPU blend giving co‐continuous morphology and subsequent polymer EMI shield nanocomposite material had shown the co‐continuous nanofiller distribution. The nanoparticles were chosen to be distributed in the PBAT portion, according to subsequent research employing HRTEM and DMA. The electrical percolation threshold (EPT) is determined to be situated within 1–3 wt% of nanoparticles loading as the remarkable shift in total EMI shielding efficiency from −14.6 dB (for 1 wt%) to −28.6 dB (for 3 wt%) of nanoparticle‐loaded film at 10 GHz (in X‐band region) for a 0.8 mm thick film reveals that the EPT is approximately at 2 wt% of nanoparticle loading. The effective EMI shielding of −37.3 dB was achieved by 10 wt% of MIL loading.
Birth outcomes following in utero co‐exposure to tobacco and marijuana
Authors: Waddell Madison L. , Dickson Samantha A. , Dodge Phoebe A. , Kopkau Haley E. , Nadolski Katherine N. , Zablocki Victoria , Forrestal Kaya M. , Bailey Beth A.
Published: November 2023

Background

With recent changes in tobacco and marijuana use patterns, it becomes crucial to understand how the prenatal co‐use of these substances impacts birth outcomes. The goal of this study was to examine the risk of adverse birth outcomes among infants born to women who used tobacco and marijuana concurrently throughout pregnancy compared to infants of women who used tobacco alone.

Methods

This study involved a retrospective chart review of pregnant women identified via self‐report or biochemical testing who used tobacco products alone (N = 71) or tobacco and marijuana simultaneously (N = 127) at any point throughout pregnancy. Differences in birth outcomes between these groups, including APGAR (appearance, pulse, grimace, activity, and respiration) scores, respiratory distress, neonatal intensive care unit admission, intrauterine growth restriction, birth weight, birth length, head circumference, gestational age, and length of hospital stay, were analyzed using linear regression and odds ratio analysis.

Results

There were no significant differences in outcomes for infants of women who used tobacco and marijuana compared to infants of women who used tobacco alone during pregnancy. Rates of adverse birth outcomes were high among women who used tobacco compared to what would be expected in unexposed pregnancies.

Conclusions

Tobacco and marijuana co‐use during pregnancy was not associated with an additional risk of adverse birth outcomes compared to tobacco use alone. Women should be educated on potential risks of marijuana, and especially, tobacco use during pregnancy. These results will inform clinical recommendations for pregnant women using tobacco and marijuana, aiming to decrease preventable adverse outcomes for patients and infants.
Determination of carboxylesterase by fluorescence probe to guide detection of carbamate pesticide
Authors: Feng Jingyi , Gong Yue , Yang Shaoxiang , Qiu Guo , Tian Hongyu , Sun Baoguo
Published: November 2023

A carboxylesterase fluorescent probe (Probe 1) was developed for determination of carboxylesterase to guide detection of carbamate pesticide. The probe uses benzothiazole as fluorescence group and phenyldimethyl carbamate as recognition group. The solution of the fluorescent probe gradually changes from light blue to dark blue as the concentration of carbamate pesticides increases. The concentration of carbamate pesticides can be quickly calculated according to the colour of the probe solution through Get Color software on a smartphone. It showed that Probe 1 can be used as a rapid detection tool to achieve rapid detection of carbamate pesticides in juice samples without professional personnel and equipment. Furthermore, the probe has been successfully used to detect carbamate pesticides in fruit juice and vegetable juice.
Why do people buy virtual clothes?
Authors: Khelladi Insaf , Lejealle Catherine , Rezaee Vessal Saeedeh , Castellano Sylvaine , Graziano Domenico
Published: November 2023

Virtual clothes consumption is part of the digital virtual consumption practices of the global NFT phenomenon and the global digital fashion trend. While cutting‐edge technologies shape customer experience and behavior, research examining how consumers desire, own, and experience these technologies in general, and virtual objects in particular, remains scarce. Adopting the uses and gratifications (U&Gs) theory and building on research related to brand roles and category, the present research aims to unveil the psychological determinants of purchasing NFTs‐virtual clothes. A mixed‐method, two‐stage approach was adopted. First, a qualitative study and a pilot study aimed to capture and understand what motivates people to buy NFTs‐virtual clothes and identify contextualized U&Gs. Second, two original confirmatory studies verified the U&Gs of purchasing virtual clothes and investigated how they differ based on brand category (luxury vs. non‐luxury). The results show that enjoyment, social interactivity, and curiosity are the main predictors of NFTs‐virtual clothes purchases. Consumers mainly seek hedonic, social, and technological gratifications as part of the digital fashion consumption trend. Brand managers must recognize virtual clothing gratifications for effective virtual world positioning. Products should encourage networking, community, and user interaction. Demographics and virtual experience should be considered to understand NFT‐virtual clothes motivations.
Positive social comparison mechanism based on social comparison theory: Independency and interdependency on SNS in younger generation in Korea
Authors: Kim Hana , Km Songmi , Lee Heejung
Published: November 2023

People utilize social networking services (SNSs) as a means of self‐expression. Therefore, it is necessary to create a positive environment for users to share such content. In this study, we investigated the social comparisons made by SNS users based on the social comparison theory. Furthermore, we examined the posting tendency according to the social comparisons made by young people on SNS, specifically in terms of luxury products. The study employs the social comparison theory, as well as passive reactions to posts by SNS users, to offer insights into various aspects of SNS usage behavior, ranging from reading and posting to the satisfaction of uploading. We surveyed college students in South Korea to test our hypotheses. The findings reveal that the younger the users engage in positive social comparisons through social media activities, the stronger their tendency to create independent posts. Thus, this study extends the social comparison theory by suggesting the possibility of promoting a positive environment for social comparisons among SNS followers, thereby strengthening the virtuous cycle structure of SNSs, where followers become publishers. In addition, the study findings suggest that SNS operators and marketers will be able to provide practical help in establishing operational strategies aimed at promoting the posts of SNS users and generating positive effects.
Multiple airway plasmacytomas: A rare cause of proximal airway obstruction requiring tumor debulking
Authors: Ghiathi Christopher , Barlev Ashley N. , Caponetti Gabriel C. , Plastaras John P. , Basu Devraj , Cohen Adam D. , Ma Kevin C.
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Extramedullary plasmacytomas (EMP) can present as airway lesions causing central airway obstruction. Though typically solitary, EMPs should be considered in the evaluation of multifocal tracheobronchial tumors. Bronchoscopic tumor debulking and radiation therapy can be used for symptomatic relief.
Case report: Coexistence of Jacobs syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and ambiguous genitalia in a male infant
Authors: Khan Qaisar Ali , Amatul‐Hadi Faiza , Kooner Amritpal , Lee Amber , Ahmed Rahma , Nadella Adithya , Pande Harshawardhan , Levin‐Carrion Yaxel , Afzal Muhammad , Alfaro Moses
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Jacobs syndrome and congenital adrenal hyperplasia are separate entities but share common clinical features such as ambiguous genitalia. Further studies are needed to conclude the relationship between Jacobs syndrome and congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

A 5‐month‐old male infant was evaluated for ambiguous genitalia. Examination revealed cryptorchidism, inguinal hernia, long phallus, and Grade 3 scrotal hypospadias. Serum 17‐OH progesterone was high and chromosomal analysis showed 47XYY/45XO. A diagnosis of Jacobs and CAH was made. The parents were counseled about the patient's condition. He was given hydrocortisone and referred to the pediatric surgeon for further management.
Unveiling the Potential of Heterogeneous Catalysts for Molecular Solar Thermal Systems
Authors: Gimenez‐Gomez Alberto , Rollins Benjamin , Steele Andrew , Hölzel Helen , Baggi Nicolò , Moth‐Poulsen Kasper , Funes‐Ardoiz Ignacio , Sampedro Diego
Published: November 2023

Solar energy utilization has gained considerable attention due to its abundance and renewability. However, its intermittent nature presents a challenge in harnessing its full potential. The development of energy storing compounds capable of capturing and releasing solar energy on demand has emerged as a potential solution. These compounds undergo a photochemical transformation that results in a high‐energy metastable photoisomer, which stores solar energy in the form of chemical bonds and can release it as heat when required. Such systems are referred to as MOlecular Solar Thermal (MOST)‐systems. Although the photoisomerization of MOST systems has been vastly studied, its back‐conversion, particularly using heterogeneous catalysts, is still underexplored and the development of effective catalysts for releasing stored energy is crucial. Herein we compare the performance of 27 heterogeneous catalysts releasing the stored energy in an efficient Norbornadiene/Quadricyclane (NBD/QC) MOST system. We report the first benchmarking of heterogeneous catalysts for a MOST system using a robust comparison method of the catalysts’ activity and monitoring the conversion using UV‐Visible (UV‐Vis) spectroscopy. Our findings provide insights into the development of effective catalysts for MOST systems. We anticipate that our assay will reveal the necessity of further investigation on heterogeneous catalysis.
Deep phenotyping of the lipidomic response in COVID‐19 and non‐COVID‐19 sepsis
Authors: Meng Hu , Sengupta Arjun , Ricciotti Emanuela , Mrčela Antonijo , Mathew Divij , Mazaleuskaya Liudmila L. , Ghosh Soumita , Brooks Thomas G. , Turner Alexandra P. , Schanoski Alessa Soares , Lahens Nicholas F. , Tan Ai Wen , Woolfork Ashley , Grant Greg , Susztak Katalin , Letizia Andrew G. , Sealfon Stuart C. , Wherry E. John , Laudanski Krzysztof , Weljie Aalim M. , Meyer Nuala J. , FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: November 2023

Background

Lipids may influence cellular penetrance by viral pathogens and the immune response that they evoke. We deeply phenotyped the lipidomic response to SARs‐CoV‐2 and compared that with infection with other pathogens in patients admitted with acute respiratory distress syndrome to an intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

Mass spectrometry was used to characterise lipids and relate them to proteins, peripheral cell immunotypes and disease severity.

Results

Circulating phospholipases (sPLA2, cPLA2 (PLA2G4A) and PLA2G2D) were elevated on admission in all ICU groups. Cyclooxygenase, lipoxygenase and epoxygenase products of arachidonic acid (AA) were elevated in all ICU groups compared with controls. sPLA2 predicted severity in COVID‐19 and correlated with TxA2, LTE4 and the isoprostane, iPF2α‐III, while PLA2G2D correlated with LTE4. The elevation in PGD2, like PGI2 and 12‐HETE, exhibited relative specificity for COVID‐19 and correlated with sPLA2 and the interleukin‐13 receptor to drive lymphopenia, a marker of disease severity. Pro‐inflammatory eicosanoids remained correlated with severity in COVID‐19 28 days after admission. Amongst non‐COVID ICU patients, elevations in 5‐ and 15‐HETE and 9‐ and 13‐HODE reflected viral rather than bacterial disease. Linoleic acid (LA) binds directly to SARS‐CoV‐2 and both LA and its di‐HOME products reflected disease severity in COVID‐19. In healthy marines, these lipids rose with seroconversion. Eicosanoids linked variably to the peripheral cellular immune response. PGE2, TxA2 and LTE4 correlated with T cell activation, as did PGD2 with non‐B non‐T cell activation. In COVID‐19, LPS stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cell PGF2α correlated with memory T cells, dendritic and NK cells while LA and DiHOMEs correlated with exhausted T cells. Three high abundance lipids – ChoE 18:3, LPC‐O‐16:0 and PC‐O‐30:0 – were altered specifically in COVID. LPC‐O‐16:0 was strongly correlated with T helper follicular cell activation and all three negatively correlated with multi‐omic inflammatory pathways and disease severity.

Conclusions

A broad based lipidomic storm is a predictor of poor prognosis in ARDS. Alterations in sPLA2, PGD2 and 12‐HETE and the high abundance lipids, ChoE 18:3, LPC‐O‐16:0 and PC‐O‐30:0 exhibit relative specificity for COVID‐19 amongst such patients and correlate with the inflammatory response to link to disease severity.
Detection of doping control sample substitutions via single nucleotide polymorphism‐based ID typing
Authors: Naumann Nana , Walpurgis Katja , Rubio Ana , Thomas Andreas , Paßreiter Alina , Thevis Mario
Published: November 2023

The authenticity of a doping control sample is a key element of sports drug testing programmes. Doping control sample manipulation by providing another individual's urine or blood (instead of the tested athlete's sample) has been observed in the past and is an unequivocal violation of the World Anti‐Doping Agency anti‐doping rules. To determine attempts of manipulations by sample swapping, the utility of a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based sample authentication with a multi‐target SNP panel was assessed. The panel comprises detection assays for 44 different SNPs, 3 gender markers and 5 quality control markers for DNA‐profile determination. Sample analysis is based on a multiplex polymerase chain reaction step followed by a multiplex single base extension (SBE) reaction and subsequent SBE‐product detection by MALDI‐TOF MS. Panel performance was evaluated for urine and dried blood spot (DBS) samples. Urine (8 ml) and DBS (20 μl) test samples were reliably typed and matched to whole blood reference samples, while efficient typing of urine samples correlated with sample quality and input amounts. Robust profiling of urine doping control specimens was confirmed with an assay input of 12 ml. Samples can be processed in a high‐throughput format with an overall assay turnaround time of approximately 11 h. SNP‐based DNA typing via MALDI‐TOF MS thus represents a high throughput‐capable possibility for doping control sample authentication. SNP profiling of samples could offer the opportunity to complement existing steroid profile analytics to substantiate sample manipulations and to support quality control processes in high throughput routine settings.
EMT and primary ciliogenesis: For better or worse in sickness and in health
Authors: Tessier Camille E. , Dupuy Aurore M. M. , Pelé Thomas , Juin Philippe P. , Lees Jacqueline A. , Guen Vincent J.
Published: November 2023

Epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) and primary ciliogenesis are two cell‐biological programs that are essential for development of multicellular organisms and whose abnormal regulation results in many diseases (i.e., developmental anomalies and cancers). Emerging studies suggest an intricate interplay between these two processes. Here, we discuss physiological and pathological contexts in which their interconnections promote normal development or disease progression. We describe underlying molecular mechanisms of the interplay and EMT/ciliary signaling axes that influence EMT‐related processes (i.e., stemness, motility and invasion). Understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the relationship between EMT and primary ciliogenesis may provide new insights in the etiology of diseases related to EMT and cilia dysfunction.
Molecular phylogeny and taxonomy of the genus Vernaya (Mammalia: Rodentia: Muridae) with the description of two new species
Authors: Zhao Songping , Wang Xuming , Li Binbin V. , Dou Liang , Liu Yingxun , Yang Siyu , Fan Ronghui , Jiang Yong , Li Quan , Liao Rui , Hu Miao , Jiang Xuelong , Liu Shaoying , Chen Shunde
Published: November 2023

The climbing mouse is a rare, small mammal listed as an endangered species on the China species red list. Molecular phylogenetic analyses and the evolutionary history of the genus remain unexplored because of the extreme difficulty in capturing individuals and their narrow distribution. Here, we collected 44 specimens, sequenced one mitochondrial and eight nuclear genes, and integrated morphological approaches to estimate phylogenetic relationships, delimit species boundaries, and explore evolutionary history. Molecular analyses and morphological results supported the validity of these four species. Here, we describe two new species, Vernaya meiguites sp. nov. and Vernaya nushanensis sp. nov., and recognize Vernaya foramena, previously considered a subspecies of Vernaya fulva, as a valid species. The estimated divergence time suggests that the climbing mouse began to diversify during the Pliocene (3.36 Ma).
Horizontal viewsheds of large herbivores as a function of woodland structure
Authors: Gresham Amy , Healey John R. , Eichhorn Markus P. , Barton Owain , Smith Andrew R. , Shannon Graeme
Published: November 2023

There is great potential for the use of terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) to quantify aspects of habitat structure in the study of animal ecology and behaviour. Viewsheds—the area visible from a given position—influence an animal's perception of risk and ability to respond to potential danger. The management and conservation of large herbivores and their habitats can benefit greatly from understanding how vegetation structure shapes viewsheds and influences animal activity patterns and foraging behaviour. This study aimed to identify how woodland understory structure influenced horizontal viewsheds at deer eye height. Mobile TLS was used in August 2020 to quantify horizontal visibility—in the form of Viewshed Coefficients (VC)—and understory leaf area index (LAI) of 71 circular sample plots (15‐m radius) across 10 woodland sites in North Wales (UK) where fallow deer (Dama dama) are present. The plots were also surveyed in summer for woody plant size structure, stem density and bramble (Rubus fruticosus agg.). Eight plots were re‐scanned twice in winter to compare seasonal VC values and assess scan consistency. Sample plots with higher densities of small stems had significantly reduced VC 1 m from the ground. Other stem size classes, mean percentage bramble cover and understory LAI did not significantly affect VC. There was no difference in VC between summer and winter scans, or between repeated winter scans. The density of small stems influenced viewsheds at deer eye height and may alter behavioural responses to perceived risk. This study demonstrates how TLS technology can be applied to address questions in large herbivore ecology and conservation.
Marine latitudinal diversity gradients are generally absent in intertidal ecosystems
Authors: Thyrring Jakob , Harley Christopher D. G.
Published: November 2023

Current latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG) meta‐analyses have failed to distinguish one of the most widespread marine habitats, the intertidal zone, as a separate system despite it having unique abiotic challenges and spatially compressed stress gradients that affect the distribution and abundance of resident species. We address this issue by revisiting published literature and datasets on LDGs since 1911 to explore LDG patterns and their strengths in intertidal benthic, subtidal benthic, and pelagic realms and discuss the importance of recognizing intertidal ecosystems as distinct. Rocky shorelines were the most studied intertidal ecosystem encompassing 64.2% of intertidal LDG studies, and 62.9% of studies focused on assemblage composition, while the remaining 37.1% of studies were taxa specific. While our analyses confirmed LDGs in subtidal benthic and pelagic realms, with a decrease in richness toward the poles, we found no consistent intertidal LDGs in any ocean or coastline across hemispheres or biodiversity unit. Analyzing intertidal and subtidal zones as separate systems increased the strength of subtidal benthic LDGs relative to analyses combining these systems. We demonstrate that in intertidal ecosystems across oceans in both hemispheres, a latitudinal decrease in species richness is not readily apparent, which stands in contrast with significant LDG patterns found in the subtidal realm. Intertidal habitat heterogeneity, regional environmental variability and biological interactions can create species‐rich hot spots independent of latitude, which may functionally outweigh a typical latitudinal decline in species richness. Although previous work has shown weaker LDGs in benthic than pelagic systems, we demonstrate that this is caused by combining subtidal and intertidal benthic ecosystems into a single benthic category. Thus, we propose that subtidal and intertidal ecosystems cannot be combined into one entity as the physical and biological parameters controlling ecosystem processes are vastly different, even among intertidal ecosystems. Thus, the intertidal zone offers a unique model system in which hypotheses can be further tested to better understand the complex processes underlying LDGs.
Fatty acids analysis by capillary electrophoresis: Fundamentals, advantages and applications
Authors: Geraldo Patrícia Abranches , Velasco Arthur Woyames de Castro , Berlande Bruna Marchiori , Souza Jéssica Cordeiro Queiroz de , Candido João Marcos Beraldo , Adriano Luiz Henrique Cantarino , Brito Marco Antônio Domingues Assad e , do Nascimento Maria Patrícia , Moreira Olívia Brito de Oliveira , de Oliveira Marcone Augusto Leal
Published: November 2023

This review covers the know‐how of the Grupo de Química Analítica e Quimiometria regarding the analysis of fatty acids by capillary electrophoresis acquired over its 20 years of existence. Therefore, the fundamentals, advantages, and applications of this technique for analyzing different fatty acids in samples such as food, oils, cosmetics, and biological matrices are presented and discussed. Capillary electrophoresis is, thus, shown as an interesting and valuable separation technique for the target analysis of these analytes as an alternative to the gas chromatography coupled to flame ionization detection, as it offers advantages over the latter such as low analysis times, low sample and reagent consumption, the use of a nondedicated column, and simpler sample preparation. In addition, the methods shown in this literature review can be useful for quality control, adulteration, and health‐related research by regulatory agencies.
Precipitation mechanism of dispersed carbide in a gear carburizing layer and its effect on properties
Authors: Tan Liang , Tan Jiqing , Lei Qiping , Hou Shengwen , Zhong Hua
Published: November 2023

Heat treatment is carried out on 20MnCr5 gear steel using a cycle carburizing process. The dispersed carbide precipitation mechanism in the carburized layer of 20MnCr5 gear steel is revealed, and the metallographic organization, microhardness, wear resistance, and fatigue properties are tested. The precipitation mechanism of two kinds of dispersed carbides at grain boundary and inside grain in carburized layer of gear steel was observed by experiment. The size of dispersed carbide particles is 0–5 μm, and 90% of the dispersed carbide is appropriately smaller than 1 μm. Compared to gears without dispersed carbide, gears with dispersed carbide have high microhardness within a 0.4 mm depth below the surface and a low friction coefficient. It has been verified by bench test that the presence of diffuse carbides dramatically improves the fatigue life of the gears after shot blasting and shot peening.