bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rab11-FIP3 links the Rab11 GTPase and cytoplasmic dynein to mediate transport to the endosomal-recycling compartment
Authors: Horgan Conor P. , Hanscom Sara R. , Jolly Rushee S. , Futter Clare E. , McCaffrey Mary W.
Published: December 2009

Several protein families control intracellular transport processes in eukaryotic cells. Here, we show that the Rab11 GTPase effector protein Rab11-FIP3 (henceforth, FIP3) directly interacts with the dynein light intermediate chain 1 (DLIC-1, gene symbol DYNC1LI1) subunit of the cytoplasmic dynein 1 motor protein complex. We show that Rab11a, FIP3 and DLIC-1 form a ternary complex and that DLIC-1 colocalises with endogenous FIP3 and Rab11a in A431 cells. We demonstrate that association between FIP3 and DLIC-1 at the cell periphery precedes minus-end-directed microtubule-based transport, that FIP3 recruits DLIC-1 onto membranes, and that knockdown of DLIC-1 inhibits pericentrosomal accumulation of key endosomal-recycling compartment (ERC) proteins. In addition, we demonstrate that expression of a DLIC-1-binding truncation mutant of FIP3 disrupts the ability of ERC proteins to accumulate pericentrosomally. On the basis of these and other data, we propose that FIP3 links the Rab11 GTPase and cytoplasmic dynein to mediate transport of material from peripheral sorting endosomes to the centrally located ERC.
Persistence of the cell-cycle checkpoint kinase Wee1 in SadA- and SadB-deficient neurons disrupts neuronal polarity
Authors: Müller Myriam , Lutter Daniela , Püschel Andreas W.
Published: December 2009

Wee1 is well characterized as a cell-cycle checkpoint kinase that regulates the entry into mitosis in dividing cells. Here we identify a novel function of Wee1 in postmitotic neurons during the establishment of distinct axonal and dendritic compartments, which is an essential step during neuronal development. Wee1 is expressed in unpolarized neurons but is downregulated after neurons have extended an axon. Suppression of Wee1 impairs the formation of minor neurites but does not interfere with axon formation. However, neuronal polarity is disrupted when neurons fail to downregulate Wee1. The kinases SadA and SadB (Sad kinases) phosphorylate Wee1 and are required to initiate its downregulation in polarized neurons. Wee1 expression persists in neurons that are deficient in SadA and SadB and disrupts neuronal polarity. Knockdown of Wee1 rescues the Sada−/−;Sadb−/− mutant phenotype and restores normal polarity in these neurons. Our results demonstrate that the regulation of Wee1 by SadA and SadB kinases is essential for the differentiation of polarized neurons.
Intended transcriptional silencing with siRNA results in gene repression through sequence-specific off-targeting
Authors: Moses Joshua , Goodchild Amber , Rivory Laurent P.
Published: December 2009

Transcriptional gene silencing has been reported with siRNA targeting the promoter region of genes. We tested several siRNAs directed against the human VEGF promoter. Of these, siVFp(−992) exhibited ≥50% suppression of VEGF production in two human cell lines. To determine the specificity of this siRNA-mediated suppression, plasmids were prepared to express a luciferase reporter under the control of VEGF promoters featuring wild-type, mutated, or deleted target sequences. siRNA transfection assays established sequence-specific inhibition of luciferase from the reporter plasmid featuring the wild-type VEGF promoter. However, siVFp(−992) also suppressed the luciferase expression from the plasmids with mutated or deleted target sites, suggesting that silencing was due to a sequence-specific off-target phenomenon, and this was supported by subsequent microarray and bioinformatics analyses. To determine if our concerns regarding the specificity of promoter targeting siRNAs were relevant to other systems where RNA-mediated transcriptional silencing had been previously reported, we tested a published small RNA sequence directed to the HIVSF2-LTR promoter. siRNA transfection assays performed in human cells expressing a luciferase reporter gene under the control of the HIVSF2-LTR promoter revealed significant suppression whether the target sequence was intact or mutated, or when the entire HIVSF2-LTR was replaced by an irrelevant promoter. These data stress the need to examine target specificity when conducting investigations into transcriptional gene regulation with siRNA.
CDC73/HRPT2 CpG island hypermethylation and mutation of 5′-untranslated sequence are uncommon mechanisms of silencing parafibromin in parathyroid tumors
Authors: Hahn Michael A , Howell Viive M , Gill Anthony J , Clarkson Adele , Weaire-Buchanan Graham , Robinson Bruce G , Delbridge Leigh , Gimm Oliver , Schmitt Wolfgang D , Teh Bin T , Marsh Deborah J
Published: December 2009

The tumor suppressor HRPT2/CDC73 is mutated in constitutive DNA from patients with the familial disorder hyperparathyroidism–jaw tumor syndrome and in ∼70% of all parathyroid carcinomas. In a number of HRPT2 mutant tumors however, expression of the encoded protein parafibromin is lost in the absence of a clear second event such as HRPT2 allelic loss or the presence of a second mutation in this tumor suppressor gene. We sought to determine whether hypermethylation of a 713 bp CpG island extending 648 nucleotides upstream of the HRPT2 translational start site and 65 nucleotides into exon 1 might be a mechanism contributing to the loss of expression of parafibromin in parathyroid tumors. Furthermore, we asked whether mutations might be present in the 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR) of HRPT2. We investigated a pool of tissue from 3 normal parathyroid glands, as well as 15 individual parathyroid tumor samples including 6 tumors with known HRPT2 mutations, for hypermethylation of the HRPT2 CpG island. Methylation was not identified in any specimens despite complete loss of parafibromin expression in two parathyroid carcinomas with a single detectable HRPT2 mutation and retention of the wild-type HRPT2 allele. Furthermore, no mutations of a likely pathogenic nature were identified in the 5′-UTR of HRPT2. These data strongly suggest that alternative mechanisms such as mutation in HRPT2 intronic regions, additional epigenetic regulation such as histone modifications, or other regulatory inactivation mechanisms such as targeting by microRNAs may play a role in the loss of parafibromin expression.
Progression to Diabetes in Relatives of Type 1 Diabetic Patients: Mechanisms and Mode of Onset
Authors: Ferrannini Ele , Mari Andrea , Nofrate Valentina , Sosenko Jay M. , Skyler Jay S. ,   for the DPT-1 Study Group
Published: December 2009

OBJECTIVE

Relatives of type 1 diabetic patients are at enhanced risk of developing diabetes. We investigated the mode of onset of hyperglycemia and how insulin sensitivity and β-cell function contribute to the progression to the disease.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

In 328 islet cell autoantibody–positive, nondiabetic relatives from the observational arms of the Diabetes Prevention Trial-1 Study (median age 11 years [interquartile range 8], sequential OGTTs (2,143 in total) were performed at baseline, every 6 months, and 2.7 years [2.7] later, when 115 subjects became diabetic. β-Cell glucose sensitivity (slope of the insulin-secretion/plasma glucose dose-response function) and insulin sensitivity were obtained by mathematical modeling of the OGTT glucose/C-peptide responses.

RESULTS

In progressors, baseline insulin sensitivity, fasting insulin secretion, and total postglucose insulin output were similar to those of nonprogressors, whereas β-cell glucose sensitivity was impaired (median 48 pmol/min per m2 per mmol/l [interquartile range 36] vs. 87 pmol/min per m2 per mmol/l [67]; P < 0.0001) and predicted incident diabetes (P < 0.0001) independently of sex, age, BMI, and clinical risk. In progressors, 2-h glucose levels changed little until 0.78 years before diagnosis, when they started to rise rapidly (∼13 mmol · l−1 · year−1); glucose sensitivity began to decline significantly (P < 0.0001) earlier (1.45 years before diagnosis) than the plasma glucose surge. During this anticipation phase, both insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity were essentially stable.

CONCLUSIONS

In high-risk relatives, β-cell glucose sensitivity is impaired and is a strong predictor of diabetes progression. The time trajectories of plasma glucose are frequently biphasic, with a slow linear increase followed by a rapid surge, and are anticipated by a further deterioration of β-cell glucose sensitivity.
The General Definition of the Complex Monge–Ampère Operator on Compact Kähler Manifolds
Authors: Xing Yang
Published: December 2009

We introduce a wide subclass of quasi-plurisubharmonic functions in a compact Kähler manifold, on which the complex Monge-Ampère operator is well defined and the convergence theorem is valid. We also prove that is a convex cone and includes all quasi-plurisubharmonic functions that are in the Cegrell class.
Disparities in Cancer Stage Outcomes by Catchment Areas for a Comprehensive Cancer Center
Authors: Desjardins Michael R. , Kanarek Norma F. , Nelson William G. , Bachman Jamie , Curriero Frank C.
Published: May 2024

Importance

The National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer centers (CCCs) lack spatial and temporal evaluation of their self-designated catchment areas.

Objective

To identify disparities in cancer stage at diagnosis within and outside a CCC’s catchment area across a 10-year period using spatial and statistical analyses.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional, population-based study conducted between 2010 and 2019 utilized cancer registry data for the Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel CCC (SKCCC). Eligible participants included patients with cancer in the contiguous US who received treatment for cancer, a diagnosis of cancer, or both at SKCCC. Patients were geocoded to zip code tabulation areas (ZCTAs). Individual-level variables included sociodemographic characteristics, smoking and alcohol use, treatment type, cancer site, and insurance type. Data analysis was performed between March and July 2023.

Exposures

Distance between SKCCC and ZCTAs were computed to generate a catchment area of the closest 75% of patients and outer zones in 5% increments for comparison.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was cancer stage at diagnosis, defined as early-stage, late-stage, or unknown stage. Multinomial logistic regression was used to determine associations of catchment area with stage at diagnosis.

Results

This study had a total of 94 007 participants (46 009 male [48.94%] and 47 998 female [51.06%]; 30 195 aged 22-45 years [32.12%]; 4209 Asian [4.48%]; 2408 Hispanic [2.56%]; 16 004 non-Hispanic Black [17.02%]; 69 052 non-Hispanic White [73.45%]; and 2334 with other or unknown race or ethnicity [2.48%]), including 47 245 patients (50.26%) who received a diagnosis of early-stage cancer, 19 491 (20.73%) who received a diagnosis of late-stage cancer , and 27 271 (29.01%) with unknown stage. Living outside the main catchment area was associated with higher odds of late-stage cancers for those who received only a diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 1.50; 95% CI, 1.10-2.05) or only treatment (OR, 1.44; 95% CI, 1.28-1.61) at SKCCC. Non-Hispanic Black patients (OR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.10-1.23) and those with Medicaid (OR, 1.65; 95% CI, 1.46-1.86) and no insurance at time of treatment (OR, 2.12; 95% CI, 1.79-2.51) also had higher odds of receiving a late-stage cancer diagnosis.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study of CCC data from 2010 to 2019, patients residing outside the main catchment area, non-Hispanic Black patients, and patients with Medicaid or no insurance had higher odds of late-stage diagnoses. These findings suggest that disadvantaged populations and those living outside of the main catchment area of a CCC may face barriers to screening and treatment. Care-sharing agreements among CCCs could address these issues.
Compassionate Machines
Authors: Koranteng Erica , Lewis Anna C. F. , Abel Gregory A.
Published: May 2024

This Viewpoint discusses the ethics of artificial intelligence–generated compassion in cancer care and outlines 4 main points of concern.
Lateral Neck Bulging and Pain on Swallowing in a Young Man
Authors: Unno Takeshi , Ueha Rumi , Tatebayashi Masaki
Published: May 2024

A 28-year-old man presents with a bulge on the left side of his neck and severe stabbing pain during swallowing. He had a history of a neck contusion 1 year prior with subcutaneous bleeding that had improved. What is your diagnosis?
Lateral response artifact correction method using image stitching technique in radiochromic film dosimetry
Authors: Miura Hideharu , Miyazawa Masanori , Ozawa Shuichi , Enosaki Tsubasa , Kagemoto Masayuki
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Lateral response artifact (LRA) is caused by the interaction between film and flatbed scanner in the direction perpendicular to the scanning direction. This can significantly affect the accuracy of patient‐specific quality assurance (QA) in cases involving large irradiation fields. We hypothesized that by utilizing the central area of the flatbed scanner, where the magnitude of LRA is relatively small, the LRA could be mitigated effectively. This study proposes a practical solution using the image‐stitching technique to correct LRA for patient‐specific QA involving large irradiation fields.

Methods

Gafchromic™ EBT4 film and Epson Expression ES‐G11000 flatbed scanner were used in this study. The image‐stitching algorithm requires a spot between adjacent images to combine them. The film was scanned at three locations on a flatbed scanner, and these images were combined using the image‐stitching technique. The combined film dose was then calculated and compared with the treatment planning system (TPS)‐calculated dose using gamma analysis (3%/2 mm). Our proposed LRA correction was applied to several films exposed to 18 × 18 cm2 open fields at doses of 200, 400, and 600 cGy, as well as to four clinical Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT) treatment plans involving large fields.

Results

For doses of 200, 400, and 600 cGy, the gamma analysis values with and without LRA corrections were 95.7% versus 67.8%, 95.5% versus 66.2%, and 91.8% versus 35.9%, respectively. For the clinical VMAT treatment plan, the average pass rate ± standard deviation in gamma analysis was 94.1% ± 0.4% with LRA corrections and 72.5% ± 1.5% without LRA corrections.

Conclusions

The effectiveness of our proposed LRA correction using the image‐stitching technique was demonstrated to significantly improve the accuracy of patient‐specific QA for VMAT treatment plans involving large irradiation fields.
Polyanion‐Induced Single Na‐Ion Polymer Electrolytes for Ultra‐Stable Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Dong Xiaorong , Zhang Yan , You Zichang , Chen Youmei , Wu Xiangwei , Wen Zhaoyin
Published: May 2024

Sodium is an abundant resource standing as one of the most promising alternatives to lithium for the next generation of battery anode materials. Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) present a prospective choice for realizing sodium‐metal batteries. SPEs exhibit excellent interface compatibility, but the crucial bottleneck is how to achieve high ionic conductivity and Na+ transference number simultaneously. Herein, using a one‐step ion exchange method to synthesize 2‐Acrylamido‐2‐methylpropanesulfonic acid sodium salt (AMPSNa) with low dissociation energy. Subsequently, employing thermally induced free radical polymerization facilitated the bonding of AMPSNa into polymer's backbone to construct a polyanion‐induced single Na‐ion polymer electrolyte, which can effectively improve the cation freedom, realize low potential barrier sodium‐ion migration, thereby constructing a stable electrolyte/Na anode interface. SPE exhibits high ionic conductivity of 4.3 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature and Na+ transference number of 0.82. The AMPSNa‐rich vesicular surface of the SPE anchors to the sodium surface, providing a 3D Na+ transport channel and inducing the formation of a F, O, and N enriched solid‐electrolyte interphase to inhibit dendrite growth. The highly protective interface also leads to outstanding rate performance in Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 cell, proficiently sustaining over 1300 cycles at 4 C with a high capacity retention of 94.7%.
Scalable Optical Nose Realized with a Chemiresistively Modulated Light‐Emitter Array
Authors: Kwon Hyunah , Kamboj Ocima , Song Alexander , Alarcón‐Correa Mariana , Remke Julia , Moafian Fahimeh , Miksch Björn , Goyal Rahul , Kim Dong Yeong , Hamprecht Fred A. , Fischer Peer
Published: May 2024

Biological olfaction relies on a large number of receptors that function as sensors to detect gaseous molecules. It is challenging to realize artificial olfactory systems that contain similarly large numbers of sensory materials. It is shown that combinatorial materials processing with vapor deposition can be used to fabricate large arrays of distinct chemiresistive sensing materials. By combining these with light‐emitting diodes, an array of chemiresistively‐modulated light‐emitting diodes, or ChemLEDs, that permit a simultaneous optical read‐out in response to an analyte is obtained. The optical nose uses a common voltage source and ground for all sensing elements and thus eliminates the need for complex wiring of individual sensors. This optical nose contains one hundred ChemLEDs and generates unique light patterns in response to gases and their mixtures. Optical pattern recognition methods enable the quantitative prediction of the corresponding concentrations and compositions, thereby paving the way for massively parallel artificial olfactory systems. ChemLEDs open the possibility to explore demanding gas sensing applications, including in environmental, food quality monitoring, and potentially diagnostic settings.
In Situ Bipolar Doping via Mechanically Controlled Dipole Under Water
Authors: Choi Sanghwan , Woo Gunhoo , Kim Taesung
Published: May 2024

Polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) is essential in integrated circuits and microelectromechanical systems. In addition, poly‐Si is gaining attention for next‐generation display research with high thermal conductivity, stability, and versatile applications. Conventional fabrication methods for doping patterns involve complex lithography and chemical usage, which have raised environmental concerns. The study of novel methods is necessary for environmental friendliness and a significant simplification of the manufacturing processes. This study introduces a novel bipolar work function control technology utilizing deionized water (DI‐W) and nanonewton‐scale mechanical force using an atomic force microscope. The method is implemented with a mechanically induced SiOx layer on poly‐Si in DI‐W. The induced Si─OH and Si─O bonds decreases the work function, whereas a thicker SiOx layer with a high oxidation state increases the work function. Based on the magnitude of the applied force (26.73–75.24 nN) and additional DI‐W immersion, the induced bond and thickness of the SiOx layer are controlled. Therefore, bipolar work function control is achieved in the range of −0.25–+0.103 eV. In addition, the electrical characteristics of the fabricated p‐ and n‐type poly‐Si diodes are investigated. This method is eco‐friendly and enables bipolar doping patterns in a single process with high efficiency.
Curcumin Equipped Nanozyme‐Like Metal−Organic Framework Platform for the Targeted Atherosclerosis Treatment with Lipid Regulation and Enhanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Capability
Authors: Lv Fanzhen , Fang Huaqiang , Huang Li , Wang Qingqing , Cao Shuangyuan , Zhao Wenpeng , Zhou Zhibin , Zhou Weimin , Wang Xiaolei
Published: May 2024

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) has become the leading cause of death worldwide, and early diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerosis (AS) are crucial for reducing the occurrence of acute cardiovascular events. However, early diagnosis of AS is challenging, and oral anti‐AS drugs suffer from limitations like imprecise targeting and low bioavailability. To overcome the aforementioned shortcomings, Cur/MOF@DS is developed, a nanoplatform integrating diagnosis and treatment by loading curcumin (Cur) into metal−organic frameworks with nanozymes and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) properties. In addition, the surface‐modification of dextran sulfate (DS) enables PCN‐222(Mn) effectively target scavenger receptor class A in macrophages or foam cells within the plaque region. This nanoplatform employs mechanisms that effectively scavenge excessive reactive oxygen species in the plaque microenvironment, promote macrophage autophagy and regulate macrophage polarization to realize lipid regulation. In vivo and in vitro experiments confirm that this nanoplatform has outstanding MRI performance and anti‐AS effects, which may provide a new option for early diagnosis and treatment of AS.
Targeted Rapamycin Delivery via Magnetic Nanoparticles to Address Stenosis in a 3D Bioprinted in Vitro Model of Pulmonary Veins
Authors: Ning Liqun , Zanella Stefano , Tomov Martin L. , Amoli Mehdi Salar , Jin Linqi , Hwang Boeun , Saadeh Maher , Chen Huang , Neelakantan Sunder , Dasi Lakshmi Prasad , Avazmohammadi Reza , Mahmoudi Morteza , Bauser‐Heaton Holly D. , Serpooshan Vahid
Published: May 2024

Vascular cell overgrowth and lumen size reduction in pulmonary vein stenosis (PVS) can result in elevated PV pressure, pulmonary hypertension, cardiac failure, and death. Administration of chemotherapies such as rapamycin have shown promise by inhibiting the vascular cell proliferation; yet clinical success is limited due to complications such as restenosis and off‐target effects. The lack of in vitro models to recapitulate the complex pathophysiology of PVS has hindered the identification of disease mechanisms and therapies. This study integrated 3D bioprinting, functional nanoparticles, and perfusion bioreactors to develop a novel in vitro model of PVS. Bioprinted bifurcated PV constructs are seeded with endothelial cells (ECs) and perfused, demonstrating the formation of a uniform and viable endothelium. Computational modeling identified the bifurcation point at high risk of EC overgrowth. Application of an external magnetic field enabled targeting of the rapamycin‐loaded superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles at the bifurcation site, leading to a significant reduction in EC proliferation with no adverse side effects. These results establish a 3D bioprinted in vitro model to study PV homeostasis and diseases, offering the potential for increased throughput, tunability, and patient specificity, to test new or more effective therapies for PVS and other vascular diseases.
All‐Printed Finger‐Inspired Tactile Sensor Array for Microscale Texture Detection and 3D Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Yilin , Zhao Jiafeng , Zeng Xu , Huang Jingwen , Wen Yading , Brugger Juergen , Zhang Xiaosheng
Published: May 2024

Electronic skins are expected to replicate a human‐like tactile sense, which significantly detects surface information, including geometry, material, and temperature. Although most texture features can be sensed in the horizontal direction, the lack of effective approaches for detecting vertical properties limits the development of artificial skin based on tactile sensors. In this study, an all‐printed finger‐inspired tactile sensor array is developed to realize the 3D detection and reconstruction of microscale structures. A beam structure with a suspended multilayer membrane is proposed, and a tactile sensor array of 12 units arranged in a dual‐column layout is developed. This architecture enables the tactile sensor array to obtain comprehensive geometric information of micro‐textures, including 3D morphology and clearance characteristics, and optimizes the 3D reconstruction patterns by self‐calibration. Moreover, an innovative screen‐printing technology incorporating multilayer printing and sacrificial‐layer techniques is adopted to print the entire device. In additon, a Braille recognition system utilizing this tactile sensor array is developed to interpret Shakespeare's quotes printed in Grade 2 Braille. The abovementioned demonstrations reveal an attractive future vision for endowing bioinspired robots with the unique capability of touching and feeling the microscale real world and reconstructing it in the cyber world.
Locally Curved Surface with CoN4 Sites Enables Hard Carbon with Superior Sodium‐Ion Storage Performances at −40 °C
Authors: Song Minghao , Hu Zhaowen , Yuan Chuhan , Dai Peiming , Zhang Tao , Dong Lei , Jin Ting , Shen Chao , Xie Keyu
Published: May 2024

The impressive electrochemical performance of sodium‐ion batteries at low temperatures has long been recognized as a promising technical advantage. However, the inadequate transport kinetics of Na+ ions and complex interfacial reactions at the hard carbon anode surface hinder the practical implementation of commercial sodium‐ion batteries. Herein, a novel approach to address this issue by introducing a homogenized functional carbon coating layer with a locally curved configuration is proposed. This coating layer is designed to accommodate single CoN4 sites on the surface of commercial hard carbon particles, resulting in enhanced sodium storage performance at low temperatures. The surface‐modified hard carbon anode material (HC‐Z1) demonstrates a commendable rate performance of 220.6 mAh g−1 at 3 A g−1@25 °C and a substantial reversible capacity of 288.7 mAh g−1 with an 89% capacity retention at 0.06 A g−1@‐20 °C. Furthermore, even at a temperature as low as −40 °C, the reversible capacity remains at 270 mAh g−1 at 0.06 A g−1. Extensive characterizations and theoretical calculations provide evidence that the optimized interface between the electrode and electrolyte effectively enhances the desolvation and migration of Na+ ions, particularly at low temperatures.
Oxygen‐Pinned Ag1In Single‐Atom Alloy for Efficient Electroreduction CO2 to Formate
Authors: Fang Chaoqiong , Huang Lijun , Gao Wenqiang , Jiang Xuchuan , Liu Hong , Hu Riming , Li Xiao , Yu Jiayuan , Zhou Weijia
Published: May 2024

Catalytic conversion of CO2 to valuable formate provides a pathway to carbon neutrality. Indium (In), as a promising catalyst, exhibits high selectivity toward formate due to its suitable bonding ability of *OCHO intermediates. However, it still suffers from the CO2 activation and the protonation steps, leading to low activity and productivity. Here, an oxygen‐pinned stabilization AgIn single‐atom alloy (Op‐Ag1In) is presented for efficiently converting CO2 into formate (≈92.03% Faradaic efficiency) with a partial current density of 13 mA cm−2 at −0.95 V vs RHE by using standard H‐type reactor. The Op‐Ag1In electrocatalyst is more effective in converting CO2 to formate because the activated In sites of Op‐Ag1In catalyst regulate CO2 activation and protonation step of CO2RR and formation of sufficient amounts of *OCHO, which are confirmed by in situ spectroscopic and theoretical calculations. The continuous production of formate is showcased at 70 mA cm–2 for 24 h by utilizing a flow cell and Op‐Ag1In.
Ein Stabiles Chichibabin Diradikaloid mit Nahinfraroter Emission
Authors: Chang Xingmao , Arnold Mona E. , Blinder Rémi , Zolg Julia , Wischnat Jonathan , van Slageren Joris , Jelezko Fedor , Kuehne Alexander J. C. , von Delius Max
Published: May 2024

Konjugierte Moleküle mit mehreren Radikalzentren, wie das ikonische Chichibabin‐Diradikaloid, sind vielversprechende Bausteine für Materialien für die Quantensensorik und Quanteninformationsverarbeitung. Jedoch stellt es eine große Herausforderung dar, einfache Analoga des Chichibabin‐Kohlenwasserstoffs zu entwickeln, die chemisch inert sind, einen hohen Diradikal‐Charakter aufweisen und Licht einer spezifischen Wellenlänge emittieren, was das optische Auslesen des Spinzustands in funktionalen Ensembles ermöglichen würde.
Pyridinium‐Yne Click Polymerization: A Facile Strategy toward Functional Poly(Vinylpyridinium Salt)s with Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria Killing Ability
Authors: He Benzhao , Li Ying , Li Meng , Kang Miaomiao , Liu Xinyue , Huang Jiachang , Wang Dong , Lam Jacky W. Y. , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: May 2024

Polymeric materials with antibacterial properties hold great promise for combating multidrug‐resistant bacteria, which pose a significant threat to public health. However, the synthesis of most antibacterial polymers typically involves complicated and time‐consuming procedures. In this study, we demonstrate a simple and efficient strategy for synthesizing functional poly(vinylpyridinium salt)s via pyridinium‐yne click polymerization. This click polymerization could proceed with high atom economy under mild conditions without any external catalyst, yielding soluble and thermally stable poly(vinylpyridinium salt)s with satisfactory molecular weights and well‐defined structures in excellent yields. Additionally, the incorporation of luminescent units such as fluorene, tetraphenylethylene, and triphenylamine into the polymer backbone confers excellent aggregation‐enhanced emission properties upon the resulting polymers, rendering them suitable for bacterial staining. Moreover, the existence of pyridinium salt imparts intrinsic antibacterial activity against multidrug‐resistant bacteria to the polymers, enabling them to effectively inhibit wound bacterial infection and significantly expedite the healing process. This work not only provides an efficient method to prepare antibacterial polymers, but also opens up the possibility of various applications of polymers in healthcare and other antibacterial fields.
Mixed N‐heterocyclic carbene and benzyl‐, phenethyl‐, and biphenylamine coordinated Pd complexes: Anticancer activities and stereo‐electronic effects
Authors: Teng Qiaoqiao , Song Haobin , Chen Huanhuan , Sang Ee , Nasir Salifu , Meng Qi , Chen Pei
Published: May 2024

A series of mixed N‐heterocylic carbene (NHC) palladium complexes bearing C^N bidentate ligands derived from benzylamine, phenethylamine, and biphenylamine were prepared and fully characterized by NMR spectroscopy, ESI‐MS spectrometry, and X‐ray diffraction analyses. The complexes were potent in inhibiting proliferation of HepG2 and Caco2 cancer cells, and a SAR (structure–activity relationship) study revealed C^N ligands with stronger electron donation and moderate steric hindrance are more cytotoxic. DNA binding study through UV–vis absorption titration indicated that such complexes bound stronger to CT‐DNA molecules with higher binding constants. Additional molecular docking of the best performer suggested a groove binding mode through hydrogen bonding and π‐π stacking interactions. The apoptosis induced by the two best performers of α,α‐dimethylbenzylamine and S‐α‐methylbenzylamine ligated complexes was further analyzed by morphology change, cell cycle distribution, ROS production, and mitochondrial membrane potential studies.
pH‐responsivity and photoconductivity for the organic mixed ionic electronic conductor of PANI/PSS composite films
Authors: Al‐Bataineh Qais M. , Ahmad Ahmad A. , Alakhras Lina A. , Telfah Ahmad
Published: May 2024

The influence of ionic‐electronic coupling on the electrical conductivity and the photoconductivity of organic mixed ionic electronic conductor (OMIECs) of polyaniline/poly (4‐styrene sulfonic acid) (PANI/PSS) composite films. PANI/PSS composite films are connected by blending the carbon atoms within the aromatic ring in PANI with sulfonate groups in PSS. The electrical conductivity of PANI/PSS composite film increases from to as the pH value increases from 3 to 9. The electrical conductivity of PANI/PSS composite films for all pH values increases continuously as the temperature increases. Additionally, the PANI/PSS composite films exhibit photo responses at UV light since the band structure can absorb the light in this region. The photoconductivity curves of PANI/PSS composite films for different pH values exhibit good consistency and repeatability. Modeling raising photoconductivity and decaying conductivity after light off leads us to understand the underlying physics of the ionic‐electronic coupling and other parameters on the photoconductivity of OMIECs, consequently building OMIEC devices for different photoconductivity applications.
Degradation modeling and remaining useful lifetime prediction based on functional variance process
Authors: Qin Linjie , Shen Yan
Published: May 2024

Dynamic fluctuation is a common phenomenon in degradation processes. Hence, how to model it properly has a great impact on the degradation modeling as well as the remaining useful lifetime prediction. To capture the dynamic features and to avoid the risk of the model mis‐specification, a nonparametric degradation model based on functional variance process is proposed in this article. The model is composed of a unit‐specific mean trend and a degradation fluctuation which follows a stochastic process. The mean trend is estimated by the local smoother method, while the stochastic fluctuation is estimated by the functional principal component analysis method. The asymptotic properties of the estimators are proved. Also, the prediction for the remaining useful lifetime is discussed and the estimator is proved to converge in distribution. Moreover, a Bayesian scheme is developed to forecast the remaining useful lifetime for units with incomplete degradation observations. Simulation results show the superiority of the proposed method by comparing it with some existing methods. Finally, two real data sets are analyzed and used to illustrate the application of the method.
Tuning synaptic strength by regulation of AMPA glutamate receptor localization
Authors: Stockwell Imogen , Watson Jake F. , Greger Ingo H.
Published: May 2024

Long‐term potentiation (LTP) of excitatory synapses is a leading model to explain the concept of information storage in the brain. Multiple mechanisms contribute to LTP, but central amongst them is an increased sensitivity of the postsynaptic membrane to neurotransmitter release. This sensitivity is predominantly determined by the abundance and localization of AMPA‐type glutamate receptors (AMPARs). A combination of AMPAR structural data, super‐resolution imaging of excitatory synapses, and an abundance of electrophysiological studies are providing an ever‐clearer picture of how AMPARs are recruited and organized at synaptic junctions. Here, we review the latest insights into this process, and discuss how both cytoplasmic and extracellular receptor elements cooperate to tune the AMPAR response at the hippocampal CA1 synapse.
A facile and scalable method to synthesize PEGylated PDMAEMA for gene delivery
Authors: Dou Jie , Yu Shupei , Zhang Yuanwei
Published: May 2024

In recent years, cationic polymer vectors have been viewed as a promising method for delivering nucleic acids. With the advancement of synthetic polymer chemistry, we can control chemical structures and properties to enhance the efficacy of gene delivery. Herein, a facile, cost‐effective, and scalable method was developed to synthesize PEGylated PDMAEMA polymers (PEO‐PDMAEMA‐PEO), where PEGylation could enable prolonged polyplexes circulation time in the blood stream. Two polymers of different molecular weights were synthesized, and polymer/eGFP polyplexes were prepared and characterized. The correlation between polymers' molecular weight and physicochemical properties (size and zeta potential) of polyplexes was investigated. Lipofectamine 2000, a commercial non‐viral transfection reagent, was used as a standard control. PEO‐PDMAEMA‐PEO with higher molecular weight exhibited slightly better transfection efficiency than Lipofectamine 2000, and the cytotoxicity study proved that it could function as a safe gene vector. We believe that PEO‐PDMAEMA‐PEO could serve as a model to investigate more potential in the gene delivery area.
Mechanistic modeling of in vitro transcription incorporating effects of magnesium pyrophosphate crystallization
Authors: Stover Nathan Merica , Ganko Krystian , Braatz Richard D.
Published: May 2024

The in vitro transcription (IVT) reaction used in the production of messenger RNA vaccines and therapies remains poorly quantitatively understood. Mechanistic modeling of IVT could inform reaction design, scale‐up, and control. In this work, we develop a mechanistic model of IVT to include nucleation and growth of magnesium pyrophosphate crystals and subsequent agglomeration of crystals and DNA. To help generalize this model to different constructs, a novel quantitative description is included for the rate of transcription as a function of target sequence length, DNA concentration, and T7 RNA polymerase concentration. The model explains previously unexplained trends in IVT data and quantitatively predicts the effect of adding the pyrophosphatase enzyme to the reaction system. The model is validated on additional literature data showing an ability to predict transcription rates as a function of RNA sequence length.
Tooth autotransplantation outcomes using platelet‐rich fibrin: A promising approach; case study
Authors: SamavatiJame Fatemeh , Alrmali Abdusalam , Galindo‐Fernandez Pablo , Stuhr Sandra , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: May 2024

Background

Autogenous tooth transplantation refers to a surgical procedure involving the relocation of a tooth within the same individual. Incorporating platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF) in this procedure holds the potential to improve healing, accelerate recovery, and optimize treatment outcomes.

Methods

In this article, the authors illustrate a PRF‐based approach for autogenous tooth transplantation through two case scenarios. These cases outline the surgical steps of tooth transplantation and demonstrate the potential role of PRF in enhancing soft tissue healing. Furthermore, the article provides insights from a long‐term follow‐up spanning over 7 years.

Results

Tooth transplantation in young adults is promising but depends on factors such as root development stage and donor tooth size matching. Including PRF may improve healing, at least in the short term, due to its rich concentration of growth factors and cytokines, promoting effective tissue regeneration.

Conclusions

Autogenous tooth transplantation has shown to be a viable treatment option for replacing the missing dentition. Adding PRF to the autogenous tooth transplantation procedure may speed up and enhance the treatment outcome. While the favorable results of these cases might be partially attributed to the use of PRF, the contribution of PRF to the healing process of tooth transplant remains conjectural and requires validation through additional research.

Key Points/Highlights

Tooth autotransplantation can be performed in younger patients without requiring root canal treatment, while also potentially benefiting from the incorporation of platelet‐rich fibrin (PRF).
Flip that coin: Barriers, barrier‐breakers, and full‐adoption of digital payment methods
Authors: Dimitrova Irina , Öhman Peter
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is twofold: to examine the mediating effect of a number of barrier‐breakers on the relationship between barriers and the intention to fully adopt digital payment methods; and to identify adopters‐resisters' commenting behaviour when facing a full‐adoption scenario. Mixed methods were applied. The PROCESS macro method was used to analyse 388 survey responses and test the mediating effects. The main study reveals that the privacy, security, and access barriers can be reduced by increasing the credibility and usefulness barrier‐breakers, respectively. However, the impersonalisation barrier is found to be unaffected by the social influence barrier‐breaker. Based on 91 collected and analysed comments, the netnographic‐based follow‐up study identifies social media commenting behaviours caused by a major bank's decision to stop handling cash. Among the more frequent such behaviours are boycotting and aggressive comments.
Single‐Site Heterogenized Molecular Catalysts towards CO2 Hydrogenation to Formates, Formamides and Methanol
Authors: Mandal Tanmoy , Kumar Ravi , Kumar Saurabh , Choudhury Joyanta
Published: May 2024

Harnessing CO2 in conjunction with inexpensive reusable H2 for catalytic hydrogenation is a viable method for lowering the environmental impact of industrial operations while producing useful chemicals and fuels. To make the process more sustainable, particular emphasis was paid to the heterogeneous catalyst system in this regard. Intending to profit from both homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis in real‐world circumstances for the CO2 hydrogenation reaction, heterogenized molecular catalysts are receiving a lot of attention among heterogeneous catalysts. This review is devoted to significant developments in single‐site heterogenized molecular catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation reactions. Attempting to illustrate the state‐of‐the‐art developments in this domain, the present work meticulously summarizes several recently reported heterogenized molecular catalysts for the CO2 hydrogenation process producing formic acid/formate, N‐formamide, and methanol. The fundamental structure–activity relationships and mechanistic understanding are given particular attention since they offer solid foundations for sensible catalyst architectural design. Important variables that influence catalytic activity are also emphasized, such as electron density, metal dispersion, porous nature, surface area, a robust backbone, and coordination environment of metal sites. Finally, a short assessment is given as potential directions for further research.
In situ high‐quality LiF/Li3N inorganic and phenyl‐based organic solid electrolyte interphases for advanced lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Wang Qianyan , Wu Minsheng , Xu Yunkai , Li Chuyue , Rong Yuanjia , Liao Yaling , Gao Menglin , Zhang Xiaoping , Chen Weirong , Lu Jun
Published: May 2024

Lithium metal shows a great advantage as the most promising anode for its unparalleled theoretical specific capacity and extremely low electrochemical potential. However, uncontrolled lithium dendrite growth and severe side reactions of the reactive intermediates and organic electrolytes still limit the broad application of lithium metal batteries. Herein, we propose 4‐nitrobenzenesulfonyl fluoride (NBSF) as an electrolyte additive for forming a stable organic–inorganic hybrid solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the lithium surface. The abundance of lithium fluoride and lithium nitride can guarantee the SEI layer's toughness and high ionic conductivity, achieving dendrite‐free lithium deposition. Meanwhile, the phenyl group of NBSF significantly contributes to both the chemical stability of the SEI layer and the good adaptation to volume changes of the lithium anode. The lithium–oxygen batteries with NBSF exhibit prolonged cycle lives and excellent cycling stability. This simple approach is hoped to improve the development of the organic–inorganic SEI layer to stabilize the lithium anodes for lithium–oxygen batteries.
Autothermal Oxidative Coupling of Methane over Pt/Al2O3 Catalysts Doped with Rare Earth Oxides
Authors: Schardt Sven , Ehrlich Felix , Lott Patrick
Published: May 2024

The effect of rare earth oxides as dopants on the Pt‐governed oxidative coupling of methane (Pt‐OCM) is investigated. The addition of 20 wt.‐% of La‐, Nd‐, Sm‐, and Pr‐oxides to the support benefits the C2 product selectivity and offers the potential to enhance the catalyst stability. Compared to the reference catalyst Pt/Al2O3, the addition of Sm2O3 increased the total selectivity by up to 23 %. Furthermore, La2O3 addition was found beneficial with respect to the (thermal) stability of the catalyst. Dopant content variations uncovered that the catalyst formulation with 20 wt.‐% La2O3 represents an optimum regarding performance and stability.
Protein Grafting Techniques: From Peptide Epitopes to Lasso‐Grafted Neobiologics
Authors: Imai Mikio , Colas Kilian , Suga Hiroaki
Published: May 2024

Protein engineering techniques have vastly expanded their domain of impact, notably following the success of antibodies. Likewise, smaller peptide therapeutics have carved an increasingly significant niche for themselves in the pharmaceutical landscape. The concept of grafting such peptides onto larger protein scaffolds, thus harvesting the advantages of both, has given rise to a variety of protein engineering strategies that are reviewed herein. We also describe our own “Lasso‐Grafting” approach, which combines traditional grafting concepts with mRNA display to streamline the production of multiple grafted drug candidates for virtually any target.
Utilizing a Carbazole‐Incorporated Regioisomeric Synthesis Strategy to Design Hole Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yeşil Tamer , Mutlu Adem , Başak Turgut Sevdiye , Gültekin Burak , Zafer Ceylan
Published: May 2024

Two new p‐type molecules, namely TAT‐TY3 and TAT‐TY4, featuring triazatruxene endcaps and carbazole π‐bridges, were synthesized. The photophysical and electrochemical properties of synthesized materials were comparatively investigated based on their 2,7‐ and 3,6‐carbazole conjugation pathways. Optical characterizations revealed the impact of non‐bonding electron delocalization of triazatruxene through carbazole moieties, resulting in a significant increase in absorption intensity corresponding to n‐π* energy transitions and a red shift of triazatruxene moieties. Consequently, the optical band gaps of TAT‐TY3 and TAT‐TY4 were measured at 3.0 and 3.2 eV, respectively. Moreover, the molecules′ first oxidation potentials exhibited a drastic difference due to the electrochemical behavior of 2,7‐ and 3,6‐carbazole moieties. The highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) level for TAT‐TY3 was measured to be −5.02 eV, while for TAT‐TY4, it was measured as −4.67 eV. Hole‐extraction properties were explored using steady‐state and time‐resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy, revealing enhanced charge transfer between the TAT‐TY3/Perovskite interface due to the better alignment of HOMO energy levels. The photovoltaic performances of the hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) were successfully characterized in triple‐cation perovskite solar cells and efficiencies of up to 17.9 %, 16.2 %, and 9.8 % were achieved for Spiro‐OMeTAD, TAT‐TY3, and TAT‐TY4, respectively.
Disturbance sensitivity shapes patterns of tree species distribution in Afrotropical lowland rainforests more than climate or soil
Authors: Núñez Chase L. , Clark James S. , Poulsen John R.
Published: May 2024

Understanding how tropical forests respond to abiotic environmental changes is critical for preserving biodiversity, mitigating climate change, and maintaining ecosystem services in the coming century. To evaluate the relative roles of the abiotic environment and human disturbance on Central African tree community composition, we employ tree inventory data, remotely sensed climatic data, and soil nutrient data collected from 30 1‐ha plots distributed across a large‐scale observational experiment in forests that had been differently impacted by logging and hunting in northern Republic of Congo. We show that the composition of Afrotropical plant communities at this scale responds to human disturbance more than to climate, with particular sensitivities to hunting and distance to the nearest village (a proxy for other human activities, including tree‐cutting and gathering). These findings contrast neotropical predictions, highlighting the unique ecological, evolutionary, and anthropogenic history of Afrotropical forests.