bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioinspired Hyaluronic Acid‐Based Hydrogel Fuels Bi‐Directional Lung Organoid Maturation via PIEZO1 and ITGB1 Mediated Mechanosensation
Authors: Zhang Junyao , Marciano Daniele , Wang Lei , Wang Weiwei , Gossen Manfred , Yang Mengting , Peng Tingying , Gautrot Julien , Xu Xun , Ma Nan
Published: September 2024

Lung diseases are one of the leading causes of global mortality. Advances in induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) differentiation have enabled the creation of bronchiolar and alveolar lung organoids, advancing research on lung conditions. Traditional Matrigel encapsulation, reliant on the spontaneous assembly and propagation of cells with limited external intervention, often results in variability and low reproducibility. The absence of hyaluronic acid (HA) in Matrigel, a key lung extracellular matrix component, limits bronchiolar and alveolar cell differentiation, reducing the efficacy and reproducibility of iPSC‐derived organoid generation. To address this, a novel hybrid hydrogel combining HA and 23% Matrigel, inspired by the natural lung environment, is developed. This hydrogel offers improved biochemical support and viscoelastic properties, significantly accelerating organoid development. Within eight days, the hydrogel produces uniformly sized organoids containing both bronchiolar and alveolar epithelial cells. Increased levels of active mechanosensors and transducers, including PIEZO1, Integrin, and Myosin, suggest that the hydrogel's altered viscoelasticity triggers a mechanotransduction cascade. This bioinspired hydrogel provides a robust, fast model for biomedical research, facilitating rapid drug screening, respiratory disease treatment studies, and surfactant trafficking investigations. Furthermore, it enables the exploration of underlying biomechanical mechanisms to enhance the controllability of organoid generation and maturation.
Ru(II)‐Catalyzed Weak Chelation‐Assisted Regioselective C4−H Aminomethyl Alkenylation of Indole
Authors: Raziullah  , Kumar Mohit , Rastogi Anushka , Ahmad Ashfaq , Koley Dipankar
Published: September 2024

A Ruthenium catalyzed C4‐ aminomethyl alkenylation of indoles using substituted propargylamine as an alkenylating agent and pivaloyl as a weak chelating group has been demonstrated. A variety of substituted indoles and propargylamines furnished the desired product in good yields. Control experiments indicate that the C−H cleavage step is reversible and suggest the possibility of a base‐assisted internal electrophilic substitution (BIES) pathway.
An Updated Structure of Oxybutynin Hydrochloride
Authors: Lin Jieye , Bu Guanhong , Unge Johan , Gonen Tamir
Published: September 2024

Oxybutynin (Ditropan), a widely distributed muscarinic antagonist for treating the overactive bladder, has been awaiting a definitive crystal structure for ≈50 years due to the sample and technique limitations. Past reports used powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD) to shed light on the possible packing of the molecule however their model showed some inconsistencies when compared with the 2D chemical structure. These are largely attributed to X‐ray‐induced photoreduction. Here microcrystal electron diffraction (MicroED) is used to successfully unveil the experimental 3D structure of oxybutynin hydrochloride showing marked improvement over the reported PXRD structure. Using the improved model, molecular docking is applied to investigate the binding mechanism between M3 muscarinic receptor (M3R) and (R)‐oxybutynin, revealing essential contacts/residues and conformational changes within the protein pocket. A possible universal conformation is proposed for M3R antagonists, which is valuable for future drug development and optimization. This study underscores the immense potential of MicroED as a complementary technique for elucidating unknown pharmaceutical structures, as well as for protein‐drug interactions.
Dual Polarization of Ni Sites at VOx−Ni3N Interface Boosts Ethanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Zhou Min , Jin Binrong , Kong Weijie , Chen Anjie , Chen Yuhe , Zhang Xiuyun , Lu Fei , Wang Xi , Zeng Xianghua
Published: September 2024

Substituting thermodynamically favorable ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) engenders high‐efficiency hydrogen production and generates high value‐added products as well. However, the main obstacles have been the low activity and the absence of an explicit catalytic mechanism. Herein, a heterostructure composed of amorphous vanadium oxide and crystalline nickel nitride (VOx−Ni3N) is developed. The heterostructure immensely boosts the EOR process, achieving the current density of 50 mA cm−2 at the low potential of 1.38 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE), far surpassing the sluggish OER (1.65 V vs RHE). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy indicates that the as‐fabricated heterostructure can promote the adsorption of OH− and the generation of the reactive species (O*). Theoretical calculations further outline the dual polarization of the Ni site at the interface, specifically the asymmetric charge redistribution (interfacial polarization) and in‐plane polarization. Consequently, the dual polarization modulates the d‐band center, which in turn regulates the adsorption/desorption strength of key reaction intermediates, thereby facilitating the entire EOR process. Moreover, a VOx−Ni3N‐based electrolyzer, coupling hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and EOR, attains 50 mA cm−2 at a low cell voltage of ≈1.5 V. This work thus paves the way for creating dual polarization through interface engineering toward broad catalysis.
Quantum Transport and Spectroscopy of 2D Perovskite/Graphene Heterostructures
Authors: Sun Yan , Morice Corentin , Garrot Damien , Weil Raphael , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Monteverde Miguel , Chepelianskii Alexei D.
Published: September 2024

Understanding the quantum transport properties of (Two‐dimensional) 2D perovskite heterostructures is key to interpreting their electronic performance and promoting optoelectronic devices. Here, it is shown that clear Shubnikov‐de Hass oscillation appears in the heterostructure of monocrystalline 2D perovskites and graphene, thanks to the clean interface. An efficient charge transfer between perovskite nanosheets and graphene is found, facilitating the separation of electrons and holes at the interface. The relation between the charge transfer efficiency and microscopic interface structures is quantitatively described. The evidence of photo‐assisted transport from the photo‐response of magnetoresistance is revealed, which happens between Landau levels of two graphene layers mediated by hot carriers in the perovskite layer, overcoming the barrier from the organic layers in the Ruddlesden‐Popper perovskite phase. These results provide a picture to understand the transport behavior of 2D perovskite/graphene heterostructure and a reference for the controlled design of interfaces in perovskite optoelectronic devices.
Structure Properties Correlations on Nickel‐Iron Oxide Catalysts Deposited by Atomic Layer Deposition for the Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Alkaline Media
Authors: Jozwiak Estelle , Phan Anna , Schultz Thorsten , Koch Norbert , Pinna Nicola
Published: September 2024

Thermal atomic layer deposition (ALD) is used for the first time to deposit iron‐nickel oxides onto carbon nanotubes in a ternary process to produce a wide range of mixed oxide thin films. When using ferrocene (FeCp2) and nickelocene (NiCp2) with ozone (O3) as metals and oxygen sources, respectively, a competition between the metal precursors and the growth modes is observed. Indeed, while ferrocene promotes a 2D‐growth, nickelocene prefers a 3D‐growth. Although both precursors are homoleptic metallocenes, they behave differently in the ALD of their respective metal oxide, leading to unexpected atomic ratios and films morphologies of the iron‐nickel oxides. The 2Fe:1Ni sample displays the best performances in the electrochemical water oxidation (oxygen evolution reaction) exhibiting an overpotential of 267 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−1, a Tafel slope of 36.8 mV dec−1, as well as a good stability after 15 h of continuous operation.
Constructing Electron/Ion Conductive‐Enhanced Ultrahigh Loading LiFePO4 Electrodes Using Polytetrafluoroethylene and Carbon Nanotubes for High‐Performance Batteries
Authors: Cheng Jiancong , Wang ChuTao , Wang Kun , Lan Kai , Li Chen , Fan Jingmin , Yuan Ruming , Zheng Mingsen , Dong Quanfeng
Published: September 2024

Thick electrodes represent an effective approach for augmenting energy density of batteries. However, their increased thickness invariably leads to longer electron and ion transport distance, limiting the utilization of active material and hindering practical application. Herein, an electron‐conducting‐enhanced and ion‐conducting‐enhanced strategy is presented for fabricating ultrahigh loading electrodes via constructing an interlaced 3D network. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) serve as extended electron pathways. Different from the polyvinylidene fluoride binder which needs to be dissolved into molecules for preparing electrode, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), however, exists as a separate phase inside the electrode, thus can become the extended pathways for electrolyte elongating due to its strong affinity to organic electrolyte. Note that based on the synergistic effect between CNT and PTFE, the latter can exhibit a form of long‐distance extension fibers rather than agglomeration. Finally, a LiFePO4 electrode with a record‐high loading of 141 mg cm−2 is successfully prepared. This electrode exhibits outstanding area capacity (20.7 mAh cm−2 at 0.2 C) and cycling stability with impressive energy density of 224 Wh kg−1 and 517 Wh L−1 in a full cell (graphite anode). The findings present a novel strategy for achieving high energy density in lithium‐ion batteries using existing material systems.
Boosting the Stability of Subnanometer Pt Catalysts by the Presence of Framework Indium(III) Sites in Zeolite
Authors: Zhu Chaofeng , Li Wenying , Chen Tianxiang , He Zhe , Villalobos Eduardo , Marini Carlo , Zhou Jian , Woon Lo Benedict Tsz , Xiao Hai , Liu Lichen
Published: September 2024

Subnanometer metal clusters show advantages over conventional metal nanoparticles in numerous catalytic reactions owing to their high percentage of exposed surface sites, abundance of under‐coordinated metal sites and unique electronic structures. However, the applications of subnanometer metal clusters in high‐temperature catalytic reactions (>600 °C) are still hindered, because of their low stability under harsh reaction conditions. In this work, we have developed a zeolite‐confined bimetallic PtIn catalyst with exceptionally high stability against sintering. A combination of experimental and theoretical studies shows that the isolated framework In(III) species serve as the anchoring sites for Pt species, precluding the migration and sintering of Pt species in the oxidative atmosphere at ≥650 °C. The catalyst comprising subnanometer PtIn clusters exhibits long‐term stability of >1000 h during a cyclic reaction‐regeneration test for ethane dehydrogenation reaction.
Biosynthesis of Ag‐CuO Nanocomposites: Efficient Catalyst for the Synthesis of Schiff Bases, Photodegradation of Congo Red Dye and Their Cytotoxicity Evaluation on MCF‐7 Cell Line
Authors: Saini Kirti , Gupta Komal , Shekhawat Kundan Singh , Tripathi Balram , Jhankal Krishna , Mathur Jaya
Published: September 2024

Amid growing environmental concerns and the need for a sustainable future, green synthetic methodologies are gaining popularity for their simplicity and nontoxicity. In pursuit of the eco‐friendly synthesis of nanomaterials, the study reports an innovative synthesis of Ag‐CuO nanocomposites via the coprecipitation method utilizing Citrus limetta fruit juice extract as the bioreductant and stabilizing agent. The morphological and structural characteristics of the fabricated nanocomposites were evaluated by ultraviolet–visible diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV–vis DRS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) analyses. The nanocomposites were crystalline with particle sizes ranging from 15 to 24 nm and exhibited spherical and rod‐like shapes. The band gap value and specific surface area of the nanocomposites were found to be 1.5 eV and 25.50 m2/g, respectively. The photoluminescence (PL) analysis and electrochemical studies revealed significant charge separation and effective charge migration behaviour of the nanocomposites, respectively. The nanocomposites effectively catalysed the synthesis of Schiff bases from aryl aldehydes and aromatic amines at room temperature and without solvents. The reactions proceeded in a brief time with excellent product yields, and the nanocatalyst retained its activity for five consecutive cycles. The nanocomposites also efficiently catalysed the photodegradation of Congo red dye under visible light. A significant degradation of 94.33% was attained in 55 min, and the nanocatalyst maintained its efficacy over four consecutive reaction cycles. Moreover, the nanocomposites exhibited notable anticancer properties against the MCF‐7 (human breast) cell line, demonstrating a remarkable cytotoxicity rate of 87.79%. The findings highlight the efficacy of the biosynthesized nanocomposites in catalysis, environmental remediation and biological applications.
Multicolor Electrochemiluminescence of Binary Microcrystals of Iridium and Ruthenium Complexes
Authors: Ding Chun‐Yun , Zhong Yu‐Wu
Published: September 2024

We here report the multicolor electrochemiluminescence (ECL) of binary microcrystals prepared from a blue‐emissive iridium complex 1 and an orange‐emissive ruthenium complex 2. These materials display a plate‐like morphology with high crystallinity, as demonstrated by microscopic and powder X‐ray diffraction analyses. Under light excitation, these microcrystals exhibit gradient emission color changes as a result of the efficient energy transfer between two complexes. When modified on glass carbon electrodes, these microcrystals exhibit tunable ECLs with varied emission colors including sky‐blue, white, orange, and red, depending on the doping ratio of complex 2 and the applied potential. Furthermore, organic amines with different molecular sizes are used as the co‐reactant to examine their influences on the ECL efficiency of the porous microcrystals of 1. The analysis on the luminance and RGB values of ECL suggests the existence of energy transfer in the generation of multicolor ECLs in these binary crystals.
Association mechanism of bicalutamide and human serum albumin for potential clinical implications
Authors: Wang Yan , Liu Peng , Zhang Jianzhong , Wen Shuangshuang
Published: September 2024

The binding mechanism of molecular interaction between bicalutamide and human serum albumin (HSA) in a pH 7.4 phosphate buffer was studied using various spectroscopic techniques in combination with molecular modeling. Fluorescence data revealed that the fluorescence quenching of HSA by bicalutamide was a static quenching procedure. The binding constants and number of binding sites were evaluated at different temperatures. The thermodynamic parameters, ΔH and ΔS, were calculated to be 4.30 × 104 J·mol−1 and 245 J·mol−1·K−1, respectively, suggesting that the binding of bicalutamide to HSA was driven mainly by hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonds. The displacement studies indicated neither Sudlow's site I nor II but subdomain IB as the main binding site for bicalutamide on HSA. The binding distance between bicalutamide and HSA was determined to be 3.54 nm based on the Förster theory. Analysis of circular dichroism, synchronous, and 3D fluorescence spectra demonstrated that HSA conformation was slightly altered in the presence of bicalutamide.
P‐doped carbon dot nano‐probe for inner filter effect–based determination of sarecycline in pharmaceutical dosage form and human plasma
Authors: Elshenawy Eman A. , Yassin Mohamed G. , Marie Aya A.
Published: September 2024

Based on novel phosphorus‐doped carbon dots (PCDs), a simple, quick, and accurate fluorescence probe for sarecycline (SAR) determination has been created. The PCDs were prepared in just five minutes using green, straightforward one‐step microwave pyrolysis. To create the PCD probe, sodium phosphate monobasic was utilized as a phosphorus dopant and citric acid as a carbon supply. The proposed synthesis method was energy efficient and yielded CDs with a narrow particle size distribution. Based on inner‐filter effect mechanism, the generated PCDs were used as nano‐probe for SAR determination. The fluorescence quenching intensity showed a strong linear relationship with SAR concentration in the 3–90‐μM range with a detection limit of 0.88 μM. Because there is no surface alteration of the CDs or creation of a covalent bond between SAR and PCDs, the developed approach is quick, easy, inexpensive, and requires less time. The new probe's enhanced sensitivity, broad linear range, and acceptable selectivity made it suitable for SAR measurement in pharmaceutical formulations and spiked human plasma. Most importantly, the Green Analytical Procedure Index (GAPI) and Analytical GREEnness (AGREE) assessments showed that the suggested method was environmentally friendly.
Current Status of Amine Dehydrogenases: From Active Site Architecture to Diverse Applications Across a Broad Substrate Spectrum
Authors: Tseliou Vasilis , Masman Marcelo F. , Knaus Tanja , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: September 2024

Amine dehydrogenases (AmDHs) are NAD(P)H‐dependent oxidoreductases that catalyze the reductive amination between carbonyl compounds and ammonia as the amine donor yielding valuable amines, typically with excellent enantioselectivity. While nature has provided enzymes with inherent AmDH activities, protein engineering techniques allowed researchers to expand the toolbox of available AmDHs, extend their substrate scope, improve their catalytic activities and stability under synthetically relevant conditions and even enable new reactivity concepts. The biocatalytic synthesis of amines using AmDHs has matured to a point where hundreds of aldehydes or ketones, of varying steric demands and bearing diverse functional groups, can be efficiently transformed. This review offers an overview of the available AmDHs and their substrate spectrum, covering from structural and evolutionary analyses to diverse methods employing these enzymes. Depending on the catalytic activities of other enzymes as reaction partners, AmDHs were applied in kinetic resolution (KR) and deracemization processes, cascade reactions for the amination of alcohols and alkenes or for the synthesis of amines and amino alcohols featuring multiple stereogenic centers. Moreover, the synthetic potential of AmDHs in novel pathways, such as the synthesis of secondary amines or alcohols, presents exciting opportunities for expanding their catalytic repertoire.
Enantioselective Construction of Planar‐Chiral Molecules by Catalytic Asymmetric Late‐Stage Functionalizations
Authors: Zhao Yu‐Hang , Zhu Deng , Chen Zhi‐Min
Published: September 2024

Planar chirality, as one of the most important manifestations of chirality, is frequently employed to constrain three‐dimensional chiral configurations. Recent advancements in the study of planar chirality by chemists have opened up innovative possibilities for designing new catalysts, developing novel drugs, and creating new optical materials. However, the flexible ansa chains present a challenge during the synthesis process of these unique planar‐chiral macrocycles, hindering chemists from achieving high enantioselectivity. In this mini review, we primarily introduce the catalytic asymmetric synthesis methods that have been reported for late‐stage functionalization of planar macrocycles to generate planar chirality. Additionally, we present several recent examples of catalytic enantioselective synthesis of mechanically planar‐chiral rotaxanes through late‐stage functionalization methods. The sources of stereoselectivity are also discussed in this mini review. We aim to inform more researchers about this field and attract chemists to engage in this important and scientifically significant area of research.
Zucker aus Rüben – Weißes Gold oder süßes Gift?
Authors: Sicker Dieter
Published: September 2024

Der Naturstoff Zucker, chemisch korrekt Saccharose, ist wohl zugleich die organische Verbindung, die weltweit in der größten Menge kristallin hergestellt, chemisch exakt gesagt, isoliert wird. Die Weltzuckerproduktion liegt seit 2020 jährlich bei rund 180 Mio. t. Davon werden ca. 80 % aus Zuckerrohr (1,9 Mrd. t in den Tropen und Subtropen) und ca. 20 % aus Zuckerrüben (180 Mio. t in den gemäßigten Zonen) gewonnen. Hauptanbauländer für Zuckerrohr sind Brasilien, Indien, China, für Zuckerrüben USA, Russland, Frankreich, Deutschland. Bei uns werden ca. 4,5 Mio. t Zucker/Jahr isoliert. 2021 verbrauchten wir 32,5 kg Zucker pro Kopf, also täglich rund 90 Gramm – zu viel.
Zn(II)‐Curcumin Complexes‐Based Anticancer Agents
Authors: Mondal Rajdeep , Keerthana Muthukumar , Pandurangan Nanjan , Shanmugaraju Sankarasekaran
Published: September 2024

There is a great deal of research interest in the design of alternative metallodrugs to Pt(II)‐derivatives for cancer treatment. The low solubility of such drugs in biological mediums leading to poor bioavailability is the major hurdle of several metal‐based anticancer agents. These issues have recently been addressed by designing bio‐active ligands based on metal‐containing anticancer agents. Conjugating with bioactive ligands has significantly improved the bioavailability of the metallodrugs and their cancer cell targeting ability. One such naturally available bioactive ligand is curcumin. Until recently, several curcumin‐based anticancer metallodrugs have been developed and successfully demonstrated for their anticancer studies. In this article, we aim to highlight, the synthesis, structure, and anticancer properties of various Zn(II)‐curcumin‐based coordination complexes. The effect of introducing different functional groups, targeting ligands, and photo‐active ligands on the anticancer potential of such complexes has been mentioned in detail. The current status and future perspective on curcumin‐based metallodrugs for cancer treatment have also been stated.
Bifunctional Electrocatalyst Enhanced Synergistically by MoS2/Ni3S2 Heterojunctions and Au Nanoparticles for Large‐Current‐Density Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Liu Peizhi , Peng Dechuan , Zhang Bin , Hao Bing , Shen Yongqing , Song Yanhui , Liang Haojie , Zhao Min , Zhang Haixia , Xu Bingshe , Guo Junjie
Published: September 2024

Developing transition metal based overall water splitting (OWS) electrocatalysts with high efficiency, low‐cost, large current density, and long‐term stability is crucial for industrial electrolysis of water, but remains a major challenge. In this study, a hierarchical electrocatalyst with MoS2/Ni3S2 heterojunctions and a tiny amount of Au nanoparticles grown on nickel foam (MoS2/Ni3S2‐Au@NF) has been developed by a one‐step hydrothermal method. The heterojunctions and Au nanoparticle decoration induce the electron‐rich interfaces in the catalyst, which facilitate the synergistic adsorption of both OER and HER intermediates. As a result, MoS2/Ni3S2‐Au@NF possesses an excellent bifunctional electrocatalytic performance in 1 M KOH with low HER overpotential (78 mV@10 mA cm−2, 253 mV@500 mA cm−2), low OER overpotential (261 mV@50 mA cm−2, 435 mV@500 mA cm−2), and outstanding cyclical stability and continuous stability, which are superior than typical benchmarks of Pt/C and RuO2. An electrolyzer assembled with the self‐supported MoS2/Ni3S2‐Au@NF electrode also displays excellent OWS activity and stability with a current density beyond 100 mA cm−2. This experiment is responding a potential alternative non‐precious metal electrocatalyst for OWS at industrial settings, and thus promotes the real‐world application of hydrogen energy conversions.
A Facile, Transfection‐Free Approach to siRNA Delivery in In Vitro 3D Spheroid Models
Authors: Riching Andrew S. , Malloy Allyson , Anderson Emily M. , Sheard Jonathan , Mikkonen Piia , van Brabant Smith Anja , Strezoska Zaklina , Levenga Josien
Published: September 2024

Cell culture has long been essential for preclinical modeling of human development and disease. However, conventional two‐dimensional (2D) cell culture fails to faithfully model the complexity found in vivo, and novel drug candidates that show promising results in 2D models often do not translate to the clinic. More recently, three‐dimensional (3D) cell culture models have gained popularity owing to their greater physiological relevance to in vivo biology. In particular, 3D spheroid models are becoming widely used due to their ability to mimic solid tumors, both in architecture and gradation of nutrients distributed from the outer, proliferative layers into the inner, quiescent layers of cells. Similar to in vivo tumors, cell lines grown in 3D spheroid models tend to be more resistant to antitumor drug treatments than their 2D cultured counterparts, though distinct signaling pathways and gene targets conferring this resistance have yet to be fully explored. RNA interference (RNAi) is an effective tool to elucidate gene function and discover novel druggable targets in 2D models; however, only a few studies have successfully performed RNAi in complex 3D models to date. Here, we demonstrate efficient RNAi‐mediated knockdown using “transfection‐free” Dharmacon Accell siRNAs in three spheroid culture models, in the presence or absence of the extracellular matrix. This methodology has the potential to be scaled up for complex arrayed screening experiments, which may aid in the identification of novel druggable targets with greater clinical relevance than those identified in 2D experiments. © 2024 Dharmacon, Inc. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Generation of 3D spheroids in matrix‐free ULA plates

Alternate Protocol 1: Generation of Matrigel matrix–embedded 3D spheroids

Alternate Protocol 2: Generation of GrowDex hydrogel–embedded 3D spheroids

Basic Protocol 2: Delivery of siRNA and collection of matrix‐free 3D spheroids

Alternate Protocol 3: Delivery of siRNA and collection of matrix‐embedded spheroids

Basic Protocol 3: RNA and protein extraction from spheroids for characterization of gene knockdown
Applied Crop Production Research Across the Canadian Prairies
Authors: Strydhorst Sheri
Published: September 2024

There is world‐class government and academic research conducted throughout the Canadian Prairies. To adapt government and academic research to local growing environments, there is a broad network of organizations across Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba that conduct applied research and demonstrations. This article provides an overview of the provincial networks and highlights one organization from each province to showcase the value of applied research that is being conducted across western Canada.
Impairments in knowledge of social norms in presymptomatic, prodromal, and symptomatic frontotemporal dementia
Authors: de Boer Liset , van den Berg Esther , Poos Jackie M. , Klop Willeke , Giannini Lucia A. A. , De Houwer Julie F. H. , Seelaar Harro , Jiskoot Lize C.
Published: September 2024

INTRODUCTION

We aimed to assess the knowledge of social norms in patients with behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia (bvFTD) with the Dutch version of the Social Norms Questionnaire (SNQ‐NL).

METHODS

The SNQ‐NL was administered in 34 patients with bvFTD, 20 prodromal mutation carriers, 76 presymptomatic mutation carriers, and 56 controls. Group differences and correlations with other neuropsychological tests and gray matter volume were examined.

RESULTS

Patients with bvFTD had lower total SNQ‐NL scores and more over‐adherence errors than presymptomatic mutation carriers and controls (P < 0.001). SNQ‐NL performance correlated with tests for executive functioning and social cognition, and with gray matter volume in bilateral frontal and unilateral temporal regions.

DISCUSSION

The SNQ‐NL can identify impairments in knowledge of social norms in bvFTD, highlighting its significance in clinical diagnosis and upcoming clinical trials. The SNQ‐NL currently fails to differentiate presymptomatic mutation carriers from controls; to this end, larger sample sizes from larger cohorts and longitudinal follow‐up are warranted.

Highlights

The Dutch version of the Social Norms Questionnaire (SNQ‐NL) is able to detect impairment in social cognition in symptomatic bvFTD patients.

A trend towards a lower performance in prodromal mutation carriers was found.

Performance on the SNQ‐NL is related to other measures of social cognition, executive functioning, and language.

Lower SNQ‐NL performance is related to gray matter volume loss in bilateral frontal and temporal regions.

The SNQ‐NL provides insight into the underlying cause of deficits in social cognition in bvFTD.
Microbial DNA extraction method for avian feces and preen oil from diverse species
Authors: Russell Austin C. , Kenna Margaret A. , Huynh Alex Van , Rice Amber M.
Published: September 2024

As DNA sequencing technology continues to rapidly improve, studies investigating the microbial communities of host organisms (i.e., microbiota) are becoming not only more popular but also more financially accessible. Across many taxa, microbiomes can have important impacts on organismal health and fitness. To evaluate the microbial community composition of a particular microbiome, microbial DNA must be successfully extracted. Fecal samples are often easy to collect and are a good source of gut microbial DNA. Additionally, interest in the avian preen gland microbiome is rapidly growing, due to the importance of preen oil for many aspects of avian life. Microbial DNA extractions from avian fecal and preen oil samples present multiple challenges, however. Here, we describe a modified PrepMan Ultra Sample Preparation Reagent microbial DNA extraction method that is less expensive than other commonly used methodologies and is highly effective for both fecal and preen oil samples collected from a broad range of avian species. We expect our method will facilitate microbial DNA extractions from multiple avian microbiome reservoirs, which have previously proved difficult and expensive. Our method therefore increases the feasibility of future studies of avian host microbiomes.
Between‐year weather differences and long‐term environmental trends both contribute to observed vegetation changes in a plot resurvey study
Authors: Erdős László , Ónodi Gábor , Ho Khanh Vu , Tanács Eszter , Akinyi Rabuogi Quinter , Török Péter , Tölgyesi Csaba , Bátori Zoltán , Kröel‐Dulay György
Published: September 2024

Repeated surveys of vegetation plots offer a viable tool to detect fine‐scale responses of vegetation to environmental changes. In this study, our aim was to explore how the species composition and species richness of dry grasslands changed over a period of 17 years, how these changes relate to environmental changes and how the presence of spring ephemerals, which may react to short‐term weather fluctuations rather than long‐term climatic trends, may influence the results. A total of 95 plots was surveyed in 2005 and resurveyed in 2022 in dry grasslands of the Kiskunság Sand Ridge (Hungary, Eastern Central Europe), where there has been a significant increase in mean annual temperature during the last decades, while no trends in precipitation can be identified. Db‐RDA was performed to reveal compositional changes. The changes in environmental conditions and naturalness state were assessed using ecological and naturalness indicator values. We also compared per‐plot richness of all species, native species and non‐native species of the old and the new relevés. All analyses were repeated after removing all spring ephemerals. We found clear temporal changes in species composition. Mean temperature indicator values increased, while mean soil moisture indicator values decreased during the 17 years. Also, decreasing per‐plot richness was detected both for all species and for native species, while mean naturalness increased. After the removal of spring ephemerals, the compositional changes were less obvious although still significant. The increase in the temperature indicator values remained significant even without the spring ephemerals. However, the decrease in the moisture indicator values, the decrease in the number of all species and native species, as well as the increase in naturalness indicator values disappeared when spring ephemerals were excluded from the analyses. Our study demonstrates that between‐year weather differences and long‐term environmental trends both contribute to observed vegetation changes.
You are what you eat – The influence of polyphagic and monophagic diet on the flight performance of bees
Authors: Krüger Jula‐Klarissa , Buchholz Sascha , Schmitt Sophie , Blankenhaus Katharina , Pernat Nadja , Ott David , Hollens‐Kuhr Hilke
Published: September 2024

Movement performance of insects is an important measure of physiological fitness and is likely affected by novel stressors associated with global change. Reduced fitness can lead to smaller foraging areas and thus to decreasing abundance, diversity and nutritional quality, which could weaken insect populations and contribute to global insect decline. Here, we combined two different methods: An experimental semi‐field design applying treatments in outdoor flight cages and a follow‐up experiment conducted in the laboratory, in which different parameters of movement performance, such as (a) velocity, (b) duration and (c) distance of an insect's flight can be quantified. We kept colonies of the bumblebee Bombus terrestris under contrasting nutritional conditions and measured treatment effects on the movement performance of individuals. Monophagously fed bumblebees showed reduced movement performance than polyphagously fed bumblebees. In particular, they stopped more frequently during flight, flew shorter distances and showed less often flight duration of 20 min. Our results suggest that nutritional deficiency due to a monophagic diet leads to reduced flight performance, which can have dramatic negative consequences for bees. Reduced flight performance may result in decreased availability of host plants, which may negatively affect stress resistance of bees and brood provisioning, facilitating extinction of insects. Although food of great nutritional value is an important compensator for the negative effects of different novel stressor, such as pesticides, it is not much known how to compensate for the effects of nutritional stress, especially in landscapes dominated by monocultures. However, our experimental approach with semi‐field and laboratory components has high potential for further studies investigating the impact of different stressors on the physiological fitness of insects but also body mass, or reproductive success and to find factors that may mitigate or even overcome the negative effect of stressors on insects.
Role of selenium in the pathophysiology of cardiorenal anaemia syndrome
Authors: Arai Shigeyuki , Yasukawa Minoru , Shibata Shigeru
Published: September 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cardiovascular disease (CVD) have multiple bidirectional mechanisms, and anaemia is one of the critical factors that are associated with the progression of the two disorders [referred to as cardiorenal anaemia syndrome (CRAS)]. Several lines of evidence indicate that CRAS confers a worse prognosis, suggesting the need to clarify the underlying pathophysiology. Among the micronutrients (trace elements) that are essential to humans, inadequate iron status has previously been implicated in the pathogenesis of CRAS; however, the roles of other trace elements remain unclear. Selenium critically regulates the function of selenoproteins, in which selenocysteine is present at the active centres. The human genome encodes 25 selenoproteins, and accumulating data indicate that they regulate diverse physiological processes, including cellular redox homeostasis, calcium flux, thyroid hormone activity and haematopoiesis, all of which directly or indirectly influence cardiac function. The essential role of selenium in human health is underscored by the fact that its deficiency results in multiple disorders, among which are cardiomyopathy and abnormal erythrocyte morphology. Studies have shown that selenium deficiency is not uncommon in CKD patients with poor nutritional status, suggesting that it may be an under‐recognized cause of anaemia and cardiovascular disorders in these patients. In this review, we discuss the role of selenium in the pathophysiology of CKD, particularly in the context of the interconnection among CKD, cardiac dysfunction and anaemia. Given that selenium deficiency is associated with treatment‐resistant anaemia and an increased risk of CVD, its role as a key modulator of CRAS merits future investigation.
Clinical implication of sarcopenia in patients with acute decompensated heart failure: Design and rationale
Authors: Bai Bingqing , Li Dujuan , Xu Mingyu , Liao Yingxue , Zhou Haofeng , Liu Fengyao , Li Wen , Ma Huan
Published: September 2024

Background

Sarcopenia is widely recognized as an age‐related syndrome that involves a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength. Many studies have shown that sarcopenia is associated with disease severity and exercise intolerance, as well as an independent predictor of mortality in patients with chronic heart failure. However, there is little research on the impact of sarcopenia on patients hospitalized with acute decompensated heart failure (ADHF).

Methods

This is a prospective, multicentre, observational cohort study. Enrolment of at least 500 participants adults aged over 18 years hospitalized for ADHF is planned, with a minimum of 195 cases each for patients with and without sarcopenia. Each patient is followed up for 6 months, 1 year, 2 years or until the occurrence of endpoint. The primary clinical outcome is all‐cause mortality at 6 months. Other clinical outcomes of interest include cardiovascular mortality, all‐cause hospitalization, heart failure hospitalization and survival time from enrolment to event occurrence. The sympathetic nervous activity, psychosocial factors, quality of life, physical function, and physical activity will be assessed and recorded at baseline. This study will examine the correlation between sarcopenia and prognosis in different subgroups of patients, and explore the additive effect of different comorbidities and sarcopenia on prognosis in patients with ADHF.

Conclusions

This study will provide important information and evidence on the clinical aspects of sarcopenia in patients with ADHF, potentially contributing to accurate risk stratification and optimal clinical management for patients with ADHF.

REGISTRATION: (URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov); Unique identifier: NCT06298825.
Recovery and characterization of cellulose microfibers from fallen leaves and evaluation of their potential as reinforcement agents for production of new biodegradable packaging materials
Authors: Celik Sudenur , Kutlu Gozde , Tornuk Fatih
Published: September 2024

In the present work, cellulose microfibers (CMFs) isolated from fallen autumn leaves of cherry plum (Prunus cerasifera pissardii nigra), white mulberry (Morus alba) and plane (Platanus orientalis) trees were characterized and used as reinforcement agents in sodium alginate‐based biodegradable films. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) characterization showed that the CMFs were successfully isolated from the leaves with high purity. The extracted CMFs had a particle size ranging from 321.20 nm to 632.26 nm and negative zeta potential values (−27.33 to −21.40). The extraction yield of CMFs ranged from 19.53% to 26.00%. Incorporation of the leaf‐derived CMFs into sodium alginate based films (1%, w:w) increased their tensile strength (from 153.73 to 187.78 MPa) and elongation at break values (from 105.97% to 89.90%) and significantly decreased oxygen (from 121.46 to 75.56 meq kg‐1) and water vapor permeabilities (from 2.36 to 1.60 g mm h−1 m−2 kPa−1)(p < 0.05). Furthermore, the supplementation of CMFs into the biopolymer matrix had no significant effect on the color (L*: 85.35–85.67; a*: −0.75‐0.71; b*: 4.23–4.94) and moisture content (44.64–48.42%) of the film samples, although the thickness increased (40.33–94.66 μm). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that CMFs were homogeneously dispersed in the film matrix. Overall, this study confirms that fallen cherry plum, white mulberry, and plane leaves are valuable sources of CMFs which could be used in the manufacturing of biodegradable nanocomposite films as reinforcement agents.
Development and Characterization of a Novel Composite Hydrogel Biomaterial for Improved Mucoperiosteal Wound Repair
Authors: Wang Q. , Dunnwald M. , Kacmarynski D. S. F. , Worthington K. S.
Published: September 2024

Mucoperiosteal wound healing, as it occurs after pediatric cleft palate surgery, can be challenging due to the limitations of current treatments such as tissue flaps secured with sutures and fibrin glue. In this study, we characterized the in vitro performance of a novel composite hydrogel biomaterial designed to be employed as an in situ wound filler and enhance mucoperiosteal wound healing. We evaluated a range of photopolymerizable formulations containing methacrylated gelatin (GelMA), glycol chitosan, and bioglass microparticles. Our aim was to identify one or more formulations with an appropriate balance of properties against a set of functional requirements that we established for this application. To test the formulations against these criteria, we measured photopolymerization kinetics, mechanical properties, degradation rate, in vitro biocompatibility, and ex vivo tissue adhesion. All formulations polymerized in less than 90 s using violet light. In addition, we found that GelMA‐based hydrogels were more adhesive to mucoperiosteal tissue than clinical standard fibrin glue. Inclusion of small amounts of bioglass in the formulation increased mechanical compatibility with mucoperiosteal tissue, enhanced cytoconductivity, and promoted cell proliferation. Taken together, our results support the suitability of these photopolymerized composite hydrogels as in situ mucoperiosteal wound fillers. Overall, this study lays the groundwork for investigating the in vivo, pre‐clinical effectiveness of these composite hydrogels in improving mucoperiosteal wound healing outcomes.
Crystal structure of the Michaelis complex of trypsin with N‐α‐benzoyl‐l‐arginine ethyl ester
Authors: Akbar Zeeshan , Ahmad Malik Shoaib
Published: September 2024

The crystal structure of Michaelis complex of the bovine trypsin with N‐α‐benzoyl‐l‐arginine ethyl ester (BAEE) was determined at 2.30 Å resolution. The structure of enzyme‐substrate complex was solved in space group H32. The active site of trypsin was found to be occupied with the N‐α‐benzoyl‐l‐arginine ethyl ester. The hydrolyzed product of substrate molecules was also crystallized with trypsin. The substrate was embedded within the S1 binding site of the enzyme, and showed contacts with Gly‐195, Ser‐216, and Ser‐192. Some water molecules were also found within the vicinity of catalytic residues of enzyme. Interestingly, the hydrolyzed product present within the crystal lattice was found to be with inverted configuration. The crystal structure of trypsin in‐complex with N‐α‐benzoyl‐l‐arginine ethyl ester has never been reported previously.
Is a two‐hour monitoring period sufficient and safe for patients undergoing ultrasound‐guided percutaneous liver mass biopsy?: A prospective and multicenter experience
Authors: Aslan Halil Serdar , Arslan Muhammet , Alver Kadir Han , Demirci Mahmut , Korkmaz Mehmet , Esen Kaan , Turmak Mehmet , Deniz Muhammed Akif , Tekinhatun Muhammed , Kisbet Tanju , Arıbal Serkan , Önder Hakan , Ozdemir Mustafa , Ozturk Mehmet Halil , Urfalı Furkan Erturk
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To investigate whether patients undergoing percutaneous liver mass biopsy (PLMB) can be safely discharged following a two‐hour monitoring period.

Methods

A multi‐center prospective analysis was conducted for 375 patients (196 males and 179 females), mean age 63 ± 12.45 years (range 37–89) who underwent PLMB between August 2023 and March 2024. Patients were monitored for 24 h, and complications were classified as minor or major. The timing of complications was categorized into three groups: within the first two hours, between the 2nd and 24th hours, and within 1 week after 24 hours.

Results

Minor complications occurred in 18.93% (71/375) and major complications in 2.13% (8/375). Most minor complications (80.2%, 57/71) appeared within the first two hours, 12.7% (9/71) between 2 and 24 h, and 7.1% (5/71) after 24 h. All major complications (62.5%, 5/8) except late‐onset cases, occurred within the first two hours. No major complications occurred between 2 and 24 h. Late‐onset major complications occurred in 37.5% (3/8) after 24 h.

Conclusion

The two‐hour monitoring period did not adversely impact patient management regarding minor complications and is safe for identifying all major complications except for late‐onset ones. Extending the post‐biopsy recovery period does not significantly improve patient care.
Community‐led transformation principles: Transforming public health learning systems by centering authentic collaboration with community‐based organizations
Authors: Meigs Reba , Sheik Mohamed Amina , Bearse Adriana , Vicente Sarah , Dang Nghi , Deiranieh Asmaa , Zubaidi Reem , Nash Valerie , Ali Maliha , Childers Trenita , Wahdatyar Mohammad , Treichler Emily , Meléndrez Blanca
Published: September 2024

Introduction

In the face of evolving public health challenges, including emerging diseases, pervasive health disparities, and escalating environmental threats, the integration of learning health system (LHS) principles emerges as a vital strategy for enhancing the adaptability and efficacy of public health initiatives. Traditional approaches within these systems often overlook the potential to deeply involve community‐based organizations (CBO) that are led and staffed by the communities they serve as equal and essential partners in the public health discourse.

Methods

This commentary proposes a suite of nine community‐led transformation (CLT) principles aimed at reimagining LHS frameworks to authentically incorporate CBOs at their core. Drawing on the experiences from initiatives supporting Afghan refugees, we illustrate the application of these principles through two detailed case studies.

Results

These examples demonstrate the CLT principles in action and spotlight the enhanced cultural competency, effectiveness, and equitable power distribution that arise from such partnerships. Centering small to mid‐sized CBOs including ethnic‐led and/or faith based within LHS structures enables the system to access invaluable cultural insights, strengthen community bonds, and empower those communities to spearhead their transformative journey toward sustainable health, equity, and well‐being improvements.

Conclusion

The CLT principles herald a shift toward a more inclusive and co‐led public health paradigm by offering a blueprint for stakeholders eager to forge strong, trust‐based coalitions and cocreate initiatives with community leaders including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) leaders from ethnic‐led and/or faith‐based CBOs. By embracing these principles, public health systems can evolve into truly inclusive, responsive, and sustainable entities poised to advance health equity for all community members.