bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Selective Plasmonic C─H Bond Editing for Low‐Temperature Light‐Driven Greenhouse Gas Upgrading
Authors: Sun Nan , Liu Xianglei , Tian Cheng , Xu Qiao , Xuan Yimin
Published: December 2024

Light‐driven greenhouse gases upgrading (GGU) into syngas is a promising approach to reduce CO2 emissions and supply green fuels simultaneously. However, this reaction usually suffers from high operation temperature and low conversion rate due to stringent thermodynamic constraints. Herein, a selective plasmonic CH bond editing strategy is presented via incorporating ultralow amounts of Cu into Ni‐based catalysts by electrostatic adsorption. A remarkable CO2 conversion rate 2.69 times as high as the thermodynamic limit and extraordinary light‐to‐fuel efficiency of 24.95% at low temperature of 500 °C are achieved, outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art literature reports. The extremely low fraction of Cu (0.06 wt%) assists the injection of localized surface plasmon resonance induced hot electrons into the antibonding orbital of reactants, accelerating cleavage of the first CH bond of *CH4, which is usually the rate‐determining step for GGU. Simultaneously, *CH intermediates are induced to proceed along *CH+*O = *CHO rather than *CH = *C+*H, thus avoid complete cleavage of CH4 and subsequent coke deposition, leading to stable on‐stream operation over 20 h. Such a selective CH bond editing approach enables ordered conversion of CH4 and CO2 with high conversion rate and high efficiency synergistically beyond thermodynamic limits.
Selective Synthesis of Ethane from Methane by a Photocatalytic Chemical Cycle Process
Authors: Yang Jianlong , Xiong Lunqiao , Wang Chao , Luo Lei , Jing Liqiang , Martsinovich Natalia , Tang Junwang
Published: December 2024

Synthesis of value‐added chemicals from methane remains a great challenge due to its high energy requirement, low conversion efficiency, and unavoidable over‐oxidation of desired products. Here, the integration of a photon‐driven chemical cycle process with a continuous flow reactor over the Co0.2Pd1.8‐TiO2 catalyst has led to the continuous synthesis of C2H6 from CH4 with ≈100% selectivity under ambient conditions, simultaneously avoiding mixing flammable gas methane with O2 for the chemicals production. Such high selectivity and activity are due to the active lattice oxygen of PdOL and the oxygen‐lean condition characterized in the chemical cycle, together with Co single atoms for the regeneration of the photocatalyst surface during the chemical cycle process. The consumed oxygen in PdOL can be compensated by air during the subsequent catalyst regeneration process, leading to the stable activity during a 43 cycles test. Furthermore, this work to some extent demonstrates that the chemical cycle process not only improves the technoeconomic viability but also enhances safety of the process.
Evaluation of a user‐friendly CSDS cage apparatus for studying depressive‐like behaviors in rodents
Authors: Zhang Hao , Gao Dongmei , Hu Minghu , Zhou Wanqing , Han Muxuan , Sun Ya , Zhang Yang , Wang Jieqiong , Gao Mingzhou
Published: December 2024

Background

Previously, a chronic social defeat stress (CSDS) model has been widely‐adopted for assessing depressive‐like behaviors in animals. However, there is still room for improvement in the CSDS model to safeguard study accuracy and the welfare of lab rodents. Our study team developed a novel, standardized apparatus to induce CSDS in rodents and assessed the model's practical adaptability.

Methods

An innovative CSDS cage apparatus and water bottle was designed. To evaluate the effectiveness of the newly developed tools, a variety of animal models, including the tail suspension test (TST), sucrose preference test, forced swimming test (FST), novelty‐suppressed feeding test, female urine sniffing test, and open field test (OFT), were adopted to assess depressive‐like behaviors in mice. Fluoxetine treatment was also administered to observe the reversal effect, as part of the validation.

Results

The CSDS cage apparatus resulted in the manifestation of depressive‐like behaviors in the model mice. Significant reductions in sucrose preference and urine sniffing time were observed, while the OFT revealed decreased central zone total distance, residence time, and frequency of entry. Moreover, increased immobility was found in the FST and TST. Fluoxetine treatment was found to successfully reverse the modeling effect.

Conclusion

The CSDS cage apparatus was validated for enhanced usability and addressed the previous challenges of water bottle leakage and lab rodent welfare issues. The consistent results from multiple behavioral tests also supported real‐world application of the apparatus, offering researchers a promising alternative to conventional rodent cages.
Improving dexamethasone drug loading and efficacy in treating rheumatoid arthritis via liposome: Focusing on inflammation and molecular mechanisms
Authors: Zamanian Mohammad Yasin , Zafari Hamidreza , Osminina Maria K. , Skakodub Alla A. , Al‐Aouadi Raed Fanoukh Aboqader , Golmohammadi Maryam , Nikbakht Nikta , Fatemi Iman
Published: December 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects approximately 0.46% of the global population. Conventional therapeutics for RA, including disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids, frequently result in unintended adverse effects. Dexamethasone (DEX) is a potent glucocorticoid used to treat RA due to its anti‐inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. Liposomal delivery of DEX, particularly when liposomes are surface‐modified with targeting ligands like peptides or sialic acid, can improve drug efficacy by enhancing its distribution to inflamed joints and minimizing toxicity. This study investigates the potential of liposomal drug delivery systems to enhance the efficacy and targeting of DEX in the treatment of RA. Results from various studies demonstrate that liposomal DEX significantly inhibits arthritis progression in animal models, reduces joint inflammation and damage, and alleviates cartilage destruction compared to free DEX. The liposomal formulation also shows better hemocompatibility, fewer adverse effects on body weight and immune organ index, and a longer circulation time with higher bioavailability. The anti‐inflammatory mechanism is associated with the downregulation of pro‐inflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and B‐cell–activating factor (BAFF), which are key players in the pathogenesis of RA. Additionally, liposomal DEX can induce the expression of anti‐inflammatory cytokines like interleukin‐10 (IL‐10), which has significant anti‐inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties. The findings suggest that liposomal DEX represents a promising candidate for effective and safe RA therapy, with the potential to improve the management of this debilitating disease by providing targeted delivery and sustained release of the drug.
Strong Magneto‐Chiroptical Effects through Introducing Chiral Transition‐Metal Complex Cations to Lead Halide
Authors: Lu Haolin , Qi Fenglian , Wang Hebin , He Tengfei , Sun Bing , Gao Xiaoqing , Comstock Andrew H. , Gull Sehrish , Zhang Yunxin , Qiao Tianjiao , Shao Tianyin , Zheng You‐Xuan , Sun Dali , Chen Yongsheng , Zhang Hao‐Li , Tang Zhiyong , Long Guankui
Published: December 2024

The interplay between chirality with magnetism can break both the space and time inversion symmetry and have wide applications in information storage, photodetectors, multiferroics and spintronics. Herein, we report the chiral transition‐metal complex cation‐based lead halide, R‐CDPB and S‐CDPB. In contrast with the traditional chiral metal halides with organic cations, a novel strategy for chirality transfer from the transition‐metal complex cation to the lead halide framework is developed. The chiral complex cations directly participate the band structure and introduce the d‐d transitions and tunable magneto‐chiroptical effects in both the ultraviolet and full visible range into R‐CDPB and S‐CDPB. Most importantly, the coupling between magnetic moment of the complex cation and chiroptical properties is confirmed by the magneto‐chiral dichroism. For the band‐edge transition, the unprecedented modulation of +514 % for S‐CDPB and −474 % for R‐CDPB was achieved at −1.3 Tesla. Our findings demonstrate a novel strategy to combine chirality with magnetic moment, and provide a versatile material platform towards magneto‐chiroptical and chiro‐spintronic applications.
Ferrocene‐Functionalized Atomically Precise Metal Clusters Exhibit Synergistically Enhanced Performance for CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Deng Guocheng , Yun Hyewon , Chen Yuping , Yoo Seungwoo , Lee Kangjae , Jang Junghwan , Liu Xiaolin , Lee Chan Woo , Tang Qing , Bootharaju Megalamane S. , Hwang Yun Jeong , Hyeon Taeghwan
Published: December 2024

The integration of organometallic compounds with metal nanoparticles can, in principle, generate hybrid nanocatalysts endowed with augmented functionality, presenting substantial promise for catalytic applications. Herein, we synthesize an atomically precise metal cluster (Ag9Cu6) catalyst integrated with alkynylferrocene molecules (Ag9Cu6‐Fc). This hybrid catalyst design facilitates a continuous electron transfer channel via an ethynyl bridge and establishes a distinctive local chemical environment, resulting in remarkably enhanced catalytic activity in CO2 electroreduction. The Ag9Cu6‐Fc catalyst achieves a record‐high product selectivity of CO Faradaic efficiency of 100 % and an industrial‐level CO partial current density of −680 mA/cm2, surpassing the performance of the Ag9Cu6 cluster (62 % and −230 mA/cm2, respectively) without ferrocene functionalization in a membrane electrode assembly cell. Operando experimental and computational findings offer valuable insights into the role of ferrocene functionalization in synergistically improving the catalytic performance of metal clusters, propelling the advancement of metallic‐organometallic hybrid nanoparticles for energy conversion technologies.
Expedited SARS‐CoV‐2 Main Protease Inhibitor Discovery through Modular ‘Direct‐to‐Biology’ Screening
Authors: Wilders Harry , Biggs George , Rowe Sam M. , Cawood Emma E. , Riziotis Ioannis G. , Rendina Alan R. , Grant Emma K. , Pettinger Jonathan , Fallon David J. , Skehel Mark , House David , Tomkinson Nicholas C. O. , Bush Jacob T.
Published: December 2024

Reactive fragment (RF) screening has emerged as an efficient method for ligand discovery across the proteome, irrespective of a target's perceived tractability. To date, however, the efficiency of subsequent optimisation campaigns has largely been low‐throughput, constrained by the need for synthesis and purification of target compounds. We report an efficient platform for ‘direct‐to‐biology’ (D2B) screening of cysteine‐targeting chloroacetamide RFs, wherein synthesis is performed in 384‐well plates allowing direct assessment in downstream biological assays without purification. Here, the developed platform was used to optimise inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2 main protease (MPro), an established drug target for the treatment of COVID‐19. An initial RF hit was developed into a series of potent inhibitors, and further exploration using D2B screening enabled a ‘switch’ to a reversible inhibitor series. This example of ligand discovery for MPro illustrates the acceleration that D2B chemistry can offer for optimising RFs towards covalent inhibitor candidates, as well as providing future impetus to explore the evolution of RFs into non‐covalent ligands.
Induced Charge‐Compensation Effect for Boosting Photocatalytic Water Splitting in Covalent Organic Frameworks
Authors: Zou Lei , Si Duanhui , Yang Shuailong , Chen Ziao , Huang Yuanbiao , Cao Rong
Published: December 2024

Imine‐based covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are promising for photocatalytic water splitting, but their performance is often constrained by inefficient charge separation due to the high electron localization nature of polar imine bonds. In this study, we have optimized the electron delocalization across the imine linkage within a COF by implementing a charge compensation effect. This effect is achieved when a strong electron‐donating thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene linker is directly attached to the iminic carbon of a zinc‐porphyrinic COF. This modification significantly reduces the electron binding effect within the imine bonds of the COF, facilitating both in‐plane charge separation and out‐plane charge transfer to the catalytic site. Conversely, the use of strong electron‐withdrawing pyrizine linker aggravates the electron localization at the imine linkage in the ZnP−Pz variant. Consequently, ZnP−Tt shows a substantially improved photocatalytic water‐splitting activity under visible light irradiation, with a hydrogen evolution of 44288±2280 μmol g−1 in 4 h, which exceeds the ZnP−Pz counterpart by a factor of 10. These results offer fresh perspectives for the design of imine‐based COFs to overcome their limitations in charge separation efficiency.
Formation of H2O2 in Near‐Neutral Zn‐air Batteries Enables Efficient Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kapaev Roman R. , Leifer Nicole , Kottaichamy Alagar Raja , Ohayon Amit , Wu Langyuan , Shalom Menny , Noked Malachi
Published: December 2024

Rechargeable Zn‐air batteries (ZABs) with near‐neutral electrolytes hold promise as cheap, safe and sustainable devices, but they suffer from slow charge kinetics and remain poorly studied. Here we reveal a charge storage mechanism of near‐neutral Zn‐air batteries that is mediated by formation of dissolved hydrogen peroxide upon cell discharge and its oxidation upon charge. This H2O2‐mediated pathway facilitates oxygen evolution reaction (OER) at ~1.5 V vs. Zn2+/Zn, reducing charge overpotentials by ~0.2–0.5 V and mitigating carbon corrosion—a common issue in ZABs. The manifestation of this mechanism strongly depends on the electrolyte composition and positive electrode material, contributing up to ~60 % of the capacity with ZnSO4 solutions and carbon nanotubes. Enhancing the H2O2‐mediated pathway offers a route to higher energy efficiency and durability in near‐neutral ZABs, advancing practical, sustainable energy storage.
Unlocking the Ultrafast Deposition Kinetics within Bi‐Tailored Core‐Shell Structured Carbon Nanofibers for Highly Efficient and Ultrastable Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yuan Menghuan , Wang Hui , Xu Tingting , Chu Ningning , Kong Dezhi , Zeng Longhui , Wang Ye , Bai Xuedong , Seok Park Ho
Published: December 2024

Sodium metal anodes (SMA), featuring high energy content, low electrochemical potential and easy availability, are a compelling option for sustainable energy storage. However, notorious sodium dendrite and unstable solid‐electrolyte interface (SEI) have largely retarded their widespread implantation. Herein, porous amorphous carbon nanofiber embedded with Bi nanoparticles in nanopores (Bi@NC) was rationally designed as a 3D host for SMA. In situ and ex situ characterizations, along with theoretical simulations unlock that the in‐situ formed Na−Bi alloy significantly accelerates sodium metal nucleation and sodium ion diffusion kinetics, enabling uniform sodium plating within the void spaces and a stable SEI outside the carbon nanofiber. Particularly, the Bi@NC electrode achieved a high coulombic efficiency of 99.99 % at 3 mA cm−2 and 3 mAh cm−2 in half‐cell tests, a cycle life of 1000 hours at 5 mA cm−2 and 10 mAh cm−2, and sustained performance over 600 cycles under harsh conditions under 30 mA cm−2 and 3 mAh cm−2 within symmetrical cells. The full battery assembled with a Na3V2(PO4)3@C cathode and Bi@NC anode delivered long‐term cyclability over 800 cycles, demonstrating its potential for flexible application of sodium‐based energy storage systems. This work highlights the Bi@NC electrode as a promising candidate for high‐performance and flexible sodium metal batteries.
Doping Copper(I) in Ag7 Cluster for Circularly Polarized OLEDs with External Quantum Efficiency of 26.7 %
Authors: Ding Xu‐Yang , Shi Lin‐Xi , Wang Jin‐Yun , Xu Liang‐Jin , Zhang Li‐Yi , Chen Zhong‐Ning
Published: December 2024

Hetero‐metal doping or substitution to create alloy clusters is a highly appealing strategy for improving physicochemical characteristics as well as tailoring optical and electronic properties, although high‐yield synthesis of alloy clusters with precise positioning of doped metals is a daunting challenge. Herein, we manifest rational synthesis of chiral alloy cluster enantiomers R/S‐Ag6Cu in 85 %–87 % yield by replacing one Ag(I) atom with Cu(I) in homometallic clusters R/S‐Ag7, achieving circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) with a quantum yield beyond 90 %. As a small energy gap (ca. 0.07 eV) between S1 and T1 states facilitates thermally activated delay fluorescence (TADF) through reverse intersystem crossing (RISC), the photoluminescence (PL) of R/S‐Ag7 and R/S‐Ag6Cu at ambient temperature originates mostly from TADF (85 % and 86 %) in place of phosphorescence (15 % and 14 %). Relative to those of R/S‐Ag7, copper(I) doping not only triples PL quantum yields of R/S‐Ag6Cu due to accelerating ISC (intersystem crossing) and RISC, but also doubles CPL asymmetry factors of R/S‐Ag6Cu ascribed to rigidizing cluster structure through stronger Ag−Cu interaction apart from dramatically improving thermodynamic stability. Solution‐processable circularly polarized organic light‐emitting diodes (CP‐OLEDs) demonstrate high‐efficiency circularly polarized electroluminescence (CPEL) with external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 26.7 %, which is superior to most of red‐emitting OLEDs through solution process.
Preparation of PBAT/PLA Blend Microporous Foam With Excellent Resilience and Cushioning Properties by scCO2 Technology Through Improving Compatibility
Authors: Yang Qifan , Ding Yi , Liu Haiming , Li Shuhong , Wang Xiangdong
Published: December 2024

The lightweight microcellular foams of polybutylene adipate terephthalate/polylactic acid (PBAT/PLA) with high mechanical strength and excellent resilience and buffering properties were reported using supercritical CO2 foaming technology. The effects of an epoxy chain extender (ST‐CE37B) on the mechanical properties, rheological properties, and dispersion morphology of PBAT/PLA blends were studied. The results showed that ST‐CE37B can act as compatibilizers and the PBAT/PLA blend with 0.5 phr ST‐CE37B exhibited the highest tensile strength (22 MPa). The PBAT/PLA foam with 0.7 phr ST‐CE37B, expansion ratio of 8.0 displayed the minor cell diameter (19.3 μm) and highest cell density (5.44 × 107 cells/cm3), the compressive strength was greater than that of pure PBAT/PLA foam, and the permanent strain was less than 15%. Therefore, compared with other foams, it can withstand larger stress according to the cushioning performance. In addition, this work also discussed the compression rebound performance (resilience) test of foam with the same blending sample, the same cell density, and different cell structures. It was found that foam with a larger cell size (49.2 μ m) showed lower permanent deformation and energy loss coefficient. This study provides a feasible method for preparing high microporous PBAT/PLA foam, expands the application range of biodegradable foam, and has research significance.
Design and Study of Azobenzene‐Modified AESO Photopolymerization Coating for Information Reversible Storage Performance
Authors: Huang Yuhang , Zhu Yingkang , Cao Lijun , Jing Yidan , Xu Zhigang , Tang Guochu , Shu You , Liu Xiaoqing , Zhang Xiaomin
Published: December 2024

The photo‐induced cis‐trans isomerization of azobenzene molecules, known for their significant color changes, is extensively utilized in the functional modification of polymeric materials. However, the research on the functionalization of biomass‐based polyesters with azobenzene is limited. A key raw material for biomass‐based coatings possess reactive double bonds and excellent film‐forming capabilities, offering significant advantages for azobenzene functionalization in biomass‐based polyester applications. In this study, AESO served as the polyester matrix and acrylate azobenzene derivatives as the functional molecules. Under ultraviolet radiation, AESO underwent a carbon–carbon crosslinking reaction with the azobenzene derivatives to synthesize a novel resin. The coating of this resin on a PET substrate exhibited excellent pencil hardness (3B), adhesion (5B), and solvent resistance. By alternating exposure to ultraviolet and blue light, the coating displayed reversible switching between cis and trans isomers, enabling reversible writing and erasing of patterns. Even after 20 cycles of writing and erasing, high‐resolution patterns could still be observed (clearly visible under a 12x microscope). Furthermore, the image could be retained for up to 2 h under sunlight irradiation. This study presents a new method for functionalizing biobased polyesters.
Bio‐Inspired Graded and Uniform Cylindrical Lattices Fabricated by Material Extrusion 3D Printing: An Experimental and Numerical Investigation
Authors: Oymak Mehmet Akif , Bahce Erkan , Singh Gurminder
Published: December 2024

The main requirements of the biomedical and aerospace industries are new and innovative lightweight materials. Bio‐inspired structures, which are inspired by various biological designs, have demonstrated notable advancements over traditional lightweight structures. In this study, bioinspired uniform and graded cylindrical triply periodic minimal surface (TPMS) and strut‐based lattice structures were studied for their mechanical qualities and energy absorption capacities fabricated by material extrusion 3D printing using PLA material. It was found that the cylindrical TPMS diamond lattice achieved maximum stress of 78.5 MPa and absorbed 19.14 MJ/m3 of energy, outperforming strut‐based designs with a 48% higher energy absorption than cylindrical BCC lattice structure. Graded designs further improve energy absorption through a better stress distribution. The findings validated the Gibson–Ashby model, highlighting the enhanced load distribution and stress transfer in the strut‐based and TPMS diamond structures. The finite element (FE) model results closely matched the experimental data, confirming its predictive reliability with a maximum error of energy absorption of 7.7%, elastic modulus of 6.9%, and plateau stress of 4.7%. These insights underscore the superior energy absorption and mechanical stability of cylindrical TPMS diamond lattices, indicating their potential for satisfying stringent industrial and technical performance requirements. The novelty of these designs lies in their bioinspired structures and significant enhancements in mechanical performance and energy absorption. Future research should build on these results to design efficient materials tailored to specific needs using FE models to optimize development processes before experimental testing.
A Practical and Metal‐Free Approach Towards Synthesis of Spiro‐Benzazepinoindole Derivatives via Pentafluorophenol Catalyzed Pictet‐Spengler Reaction**
Authors: Bansal Diksha , Nataraj Gokulprasanth , Elanchezhian Chibisree , Sivaganesan Pooja , Das Mrinal Kanti , Chaudhuri Saikat
Published: December 2024

The efficient pentaflurophenol‐catalyzed Pictet‐Spengler cyclization was carried out which led to the formation of spirobenzazepinoindole. This article examines the methods and modifications of Pictet‐Spengler cyclization in the synthesis of intricate organic compounds, emphasizing its significance in drug discovery and development. This reaction generally entails the condensation of an amine with an aldehyde or ketone, succeeded by an intramolecular cyclization step catalyzed by pentafluorophenol, an alternate for metal‐mediated catalysts due to its facile characteristics which render it an invaluable asset in organic synthesis and catalysis. Spectroscopic methods like NMR (1H, 13C & DEPT‐135), IR, and mass spectrometry were used to comprehensively analyze the produced spirobenzazepinoindoles. This method signifies the synthesizing spirobenzazepinoindole enhances efficiency, selectivity, and cost‐effectiveness while enabling access to novel compounds with potential pharmacological applications.
Molecular Ontology of the Nucleus of Solitary Tract
Authors: Gasparini Silvia , Almeida‐Pereira Gislaine , Munuzuri Ana Sofia Peraza , Resch Jon M. , Geerling Joel C.
Published: December 2024

The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) receives visceral information and regulates appetitive, digestive, and cardiorespiratory systems. Within the NTS, diverse processes operate in parallel to sustain life, but our understanding of their cellular composition is incomplete. Here, we integrate histologic and transcriptomic analysis to identify and compare molecular features that distinguish neurons in this brain region. Most glutamatergic neurons in the NTS and area postrema co‐express the transcription factors Lmx1b and Phox2b, except for a ventral band of neurons in the far‐caudal NTS, which include the Gcg‐expressing neurons that produce glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1). GABAergic interneurons intermingle through the Lmx1b+Phox2b macropopulation, and dense clusters of GABAergic neurons surround the NTS. The Lmx1b+Phox2b macropopulation includes subpopulations with distinct distributions expressing Grp, Hsd11b2, Npff, Pdyn, Pou3f1, Sctr, Th, and other markers. These findings highlight Lmx1b–Phox2b co‐expression as a common feature of glutamatergic neurons in the NTS and improve our understanding of the organization and distribution of neurons in this critical brain region.
The Influence Mechanism of Screw Internal Fixation on the Biomechanics of Lateral Malleolus Oblique Fractures
Authors: Shi Xinyuan , Wang Shuanzhu , Gong Yongzhi , Gu Shibo , Feng Haiquan
Published: December 2024

It remains inconclusive about the stability and optimal fixation scheme of screw internal fixation for lateral malleolus oblique fractures in clinical practice. In this study, the effects of different screw internal fixation methods on the biomechanics of lateral malleolus oblique fractures were investigated. These efforts are expected to lay a theoretical foundation for the selection of internal fixation methods and rehabilitation training regimens in the treatment of lateral malleolus fractures. A healthy ankle joint model and a lateral malleolus fracture internal fixation model were established based on CT data with the aid of some software. Besides, the effects of screw internal fixation modalities on the fracture displacement of fibula fractures, fibula Von Mises stress, and screw Von Mises stress under different physiological conditions and loading conditions were investigated using finite element methods (FEMs) and in vitro physical experiments. The double screw vertical fibular axis internal fixation approach had the lowest fracture displacement of fibula fractures and screw Von Mises stress values; while the double screw vertical fracture line internal fixation approach had the lowest fibula Von Mises stress values. Under different physiological conditions, the magnitude of the peak Von Mises stress of the fibula and screw was ranked as plantarflexion 20° > plantarflexion 10° > neutral position > dorsiflexion 10° > dorsiflexion 20°; and the magnitude of the peak displacement of the fibula fracture breaks was ranked as plantarflexion 20° > plantarflexion 10° > neutral position > dorsiflexion 20° > dorsiflexion 10°. The results of in vitro physical experiments and finite element analyses were in good agreement, which validated the validity of finite element analyses. The vertical fracture line screw implantation method displays a better load‐sharing ability; while the vertical fibular axis screw implantation method exhibits a better ability to prevent axial shortening of the fibula and also reduces the risk of screw fatigue damage. Overall, the double screw achieves better therapeutic effects than the single screw. Given that the ankle joint has high stability in the dorsiflexion position, it is recommended to prioritize dorsiflexion rehabilitation training, rather than dorsiflexion and plantarflexion rehabilitation training with too large angles, in the treatment of lateral malleolus fractures.
Effects of 5 Nanosilica Concentrations and Humid Environments at 6 Different pH Levels on Fracture Toughness and Moisture Absorption of Dental Polymethyl Methacrylate Resin‎ Reinforced With Silica Nanoparticles: An Explorative Experimental Scanning Electron Microscopy Study
Authors: Golshokouh Mohammad Ali , Refahati Nima , Saffari Pouyan Roodgar
Published: December 2024

Introduction

No study has assessed the effects of nanosilica within polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) resin and environmental pH on resin's fracture resistance and moisture absorption.

Methods

A total of 90 specimens were divided into 30 subgroups of three, as per the ASTM D5045 standard: five groups of nanosilica percentages (0%/2%/5%/7%/10%), each ‎divided into six subgroups of pH levels (pH = 5/6/7/8/9, + “dry” control). The specimens were prepared by mixing silica nanoparticles with PMMA powder in a vacuum mixer. Then, the specimens were mixed with a diluent liquid (TEGDMA) according to the manufacturer's instructions. For each of the five weight percentages, 36 samples were produced. The 18 specimens in each group were randomly divided into six subgroups of pH levels. The specimens were kept in containers of liquid at different pH levels at room temperature for 1 week. Their before‐ and after‐storage weights were recorded to calculate moisture absorption. The fracture resistance test was performed (ASTM D5045 standard) using the three‐point bending method. Scanning electron microscopy was performed. Data were analyzed.

Results

Both nanosilica extents and pH levels significantly affected the fracture toughness with a significant interaction (p < ‎‎0.00001). All post hoc comparisons of different pH levels (except pH= 5 vs. 6) were significant (p < ‎‎0.0001). All post hoc comparisons of different nanosilica concentrations were significant (p < ‎‎0.0001). Both nanosilica extents and pH levels significantly influenced the fracture toughness with a significant interaction (p < ‎‎0.00001). All post hoc comparisons of different pH levels and also between different nanosilica concentrations were significant (p < ‎‎0.0001). The correlation between moisture absorption and fracture toughness was significant (R = −0.382, p = 0.0009).

Conclusions

Fracture toughness decreases when placed in humid and acidic environments. Also, the samples that were placed in a humid environment suffered a brittle fracture. Increasing silica nanoparticles improved fracture toughness (becoming optimal at 5 wt% nanosilica).

Objective and Materials

The objective of this study was to investigate the fracture toughness of dental samples made of PMMA reinforced with various percentages of nanosilica at various pH levels. For this purpose, dental resins with various amounts of nanosilica were placed in moist media at different pH values ranging from 5 to 9 (mimicking the normal pH range of the human mouth).
Corticostriatal glutamate‐mediated dynamic therapeutic efficacy of electroacupuncture in a parkinsonian rat model
Authors: Jiang Xinxin , Sun Min , Yan Yitong , Wang Yanhua , Fan Xinyu , Wei Jing , Wang Ke , Liang Peirong , Wang Zirui , Wang Jihan , Wang Xiaomin , Jia Jun
Published: December 2024

Background

Motor impairments are the defining cardinal features of Parkinson's disease (PD), resulting from malfunction of the cortico‐basal ganglia circuit. Clinical data have demonstrated that electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation may benefit motor symptoms in PD without adverse effects. However, the specific effects of EA on PD and the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear.

Methods

This study investigated the effects of EA stimulation during and after 100 Hz application in a rat model of PD created by unilateral injection of 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA). To establish optimal treatment parameters of EA, motor behaviours were dynamically assessed using open field and rotarod tests. Additionally, we evaluated corticostriatal spine plasticity using immunoelectron microscopy and measured the levels of dopaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmitters through microdialysis, in vivo electrochemistry and high‐performance liquid chromatography. Neural activity dynamics were recorded by measuring local field potentials in both the motor cortex and the striatum. Furthermore, chemogenetic techniques were employed to manipulate corticostriatal glutamatergic neurons and clarify the mechanisms that contribute to the therapeutic benefits of EA in the PD rat model.

Results

Chronic EA stimulation resulted in a gradual and long‐lasting alleviation of motor symptoms, independent of nigrostriatal dopamine (DA) restoration. Notably, EA stimulation modulated corticostriatal spine plasticity and reduced excessive glutamate transmission in PD model rats. Moreover, EA effectively inhibited aberrant corticostriatal synchronised high‐beta (25–40 Hz) oscillations, which serves as a pathological biomarker of PD. Conversely, chronic chemogenetic activation of corticostriatal glutamatergic neurons hindered these positive outcomes of EA treatment in PD model rats.

Conclusions

This study sheds light on the temporal dynamics and optimal parameters of EA treatment in PD. It emphasises the significance of inhibiting corticostriatal glutamate transmission in EA's therapeutic benefits for PD. Targeting glutamatergic neurons with EA holds promise as a non‐dopaminergic intervention for managing motor symptoms and abnormal neural activity with PD.

Key points

EA commonly protects dopaminergic neuronsby reducing neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.

New findings reveal that EA alleviates motor symptoms in a parkinsonian rat model without restoring striatal dopamine levels.

EA effectively suppresses excessiveglutamate transmission and high‐beta synchronization, contributing to motorsymptom relief.

Activation of corticostriatalglutamatergic projections may hinder the efficacy of EA.
Pauses in the Dynamics of Handwriting Production: Evidence of Persistent Difficulties in French Students With Dyslexia
Authors: Mazur Audrey , Quignard Matthieu
Published: December 2024

Despite the persistent difficulties of people with dyslexia concerning writing, few studies examine the impact of dyslexia on the dynamic aspects of written text production. Our objective is to examine the written productions of students with dyslexia (N = 21), compared with matched control students (N = 22), taking into consideration online indicators. They were asked to produce spontaneous narrative and expository texts. The written texts (N = 86) were collected using the Eye and Pen software with digitising tablets. Results show significant differences between the two groups concerning bursts and some pause locations and durations. While previous works conclude that the spelling difficulties of university students do not impact the transcription process anymore, which means that they no longer have effects on the dynamics of writing, and thus on writing fluency, our study qualifies these conclusions. Indeed, our results show that students with dyslexia's word transcription is atypical and problematic in terms of online indicators: they display shorter bursts (number of units written without a pause) and make longer pauses, especially inside and before words and before punctuation signs. The way in which they allocate cognitive resources is still partially altered by cognitive obstacles; their transcription process is also slowed down and disorganises other high‐level cognitive operations.
Restoration treatments enhance tree growth and alter climatic constraints during extreme drought
Authors: Rodman Kyle C. , Bradford John B. , Formanack Alicia M. , Fulé Peter Z. , Huffman David W. , Kolb Thomas E. , Miller‐ter Kuile Ana T. , Normandin Donald P. , Ogle Kiona , Pedersen Rory J. , Schlaepfer Daniel R. , Stoddard Michael T. , Waltz Amy E. M.
Published: December 2024

The frequency and severity of drought events are predicted to increase due to anthropogenic climate change, with cascading effects across forested ecosystems. Management activities such as forest thinning and prescribed burning, which are often intended to mitigate fire hazard and restore ecosystem processes, may also help promote tree resistance to drought. However, it is unclear whether these treatments remain effective during the most severe drought conditions or whether their impacts differ across environmental gradients. We used tree‐ring data from a system of replicated, long‐term (>20 years) experiments in the southwestern United States to evaluate the effects of forest restoration treatments (i.e., evidence‐based thinning and burning) on annual growth rates (i.e., basal area increment; BAI) of ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa), a broadly distributed and heavily managed species in western North America. The study sites were established at the onset of the most extreme drought event in at least 1200 years and span much of the climatic niche of Rocky Mountain ponderosa pine. Across sites, tree‐level BAI increased due to treatment, where trees in treated units grew 133.1% faster than trees in paired, untreated units. Likewise, trees in treated units grew an average of 85.6% faster than their pre‐treatment baseline levels (1985 to ca. 2000), despite warm, dry conditions in the post‐treatment period (ca. 2000–2018). Variation in the local competitive environment promoted variation in BAI, and larger trees were the fastest‐growing individuals, irrespective of treatment. Tree thinning and prescribed fire altered the climatic constraints on growth, decreasing the effects of belowground moisture availability and increasing the effects of atmospheric evaporative demand over multi‐year timescales. Our results illustrate that restoration treatments can enhance tree‐level growth across sites spanning ponderosa pine's climatic niche, even during recent, extreme drought events. However, shifting climatic constraints, combined with predicted increases in evaporative demand in the southwestern United States, suggest that the beneficial effects of such treatments on tree growth may wane over the upcoming decades.
Food‐web dynamics of a floodplain mosaic overshadow the effects of engineered logjams for Pacific salmon and steelhead
Authors: Paris James C. , Baxter Colden V. , Bellmore J. Ryan , Benjamin Joseph R.
Published: December 2024

Food webs vary in space and time. The structure and spatial arrangement of food webs are theorized to mediate temporal dynamics of energy flow, but empirical corroboration in intermediate‐scale landscapes is scarce. River‐floodplain landscapes encompass a mosaic of aquatic habitat patches and food webs, supporting a variety of aquatic consumers of conservation concern. How the structure and productivity of these patch‐scale food webs change through time, and how floodplain restoration influences their dynamics, are unevaluated. We measured productivity and food‐web dynamics across a mosaic of main‐channel and side‐channel habitats of the Methow River, WA, USA, during two study years (2009–2010; 2015–2016) and examined how food webs that sustained juvenile anadromous salmonids responded to habitat manipulation. By quantifying temporal variation in secondary production and organic matter flow across nontreated river‐floodplain habitats and comparing that variation to a side channel treated with engineered logjams, we jointly confronted spatial food‐web theory and assessed whether food‐web dynamics in the treated side channel exceeded natural variation exhibited in nontreated habitats. We observed that organic matter flow through the more complex, main‐channel food web was similar between study years, whereas organic matter flow through the simpler, side‐channel food webs changed up to ~4‐fold. In the side channel treated with engineered logjams, production of benthic invertebrates and juvenile salmonids increased between study years by 2× and 4×, respectively; however, these changes did not surpass the temporal variation observed in untreated habitats. For instance, juvenile salmonid production rose 17‐fold in one untreated side‐channel habitat, and natural aggregation of large wood in another coincided with a shift to community and food‐web dominance by juvenile salmonids. Our findings suggest that interannual dynamism in material flux across floodplain habitat mosaics is interrelated with patchiness in food‐web complexity and may overshadow the ecological responses to localized river restoration. Although this dynamism may inhibit detection of the ecological effects of river restoration, it may also act to stabilize aquatic ecosystems and buffer salmon and other species of conservation concern in the long term. As such, natural, landscape‐level patchiness and dynamism in food webs should be integrated into conceptual foundations of process‐based, river restoration.
Dryland fungi are spatially heterogeneous and resistant to global change drivers
Authors: Lopez Andrea , Anthony Mark , Catalan‐Dibene Jovani , Ferrenberg Scott , Jordan Samuel E. , Osborne Brooke , Reed Sasha , Romero‐Olivares Adriana L.
Published: December 2024

Fungi are considered particularly important in regulating the structure and function of dryland ecosystems, yet the response of dryland fungal communities to global change remains notably understudied. Without a clear understanding of how fungi respond to global change drivers, mitigation plans—required for biodiversity and ecosystem service conservation and restoration—are impossible to develop. In this study, we asked the following: (1) How does the fungal community respond to the individual and interactive effects of physical disturbance and drought in a heterogeneous dryland landscape comprised of drought‐adapted shrubs separated by adjacent open areas of soil? (2) What are the larger scale impacts of this response? We assessed fungal communities (using fungal‐specific DNA metabarcoding analyses) of surface soil samples in an in situ global change experiment that included disturbance and drought in a full factorial design in the northern extent of the Chihuahuan Desert. We found that the fungal community was spatially heterogenous and remarkably resistant to disturbance and drought. We also show that dryland soils harbor high shares of facultative pathogenic and obligately pathogenic fungal taxa, with several concerning taxa reaching high relative abundances under drought. Our results suggest that the fungal community is highly influenced by microclimatic conditions associated with the presence or absence of vegetation. Moreover, our results imply that the fungal community in our experiment was already adapted to the magnitude of stress imposed by two years of experimental disturbance and drought treatments. Overall, our study shows that the fungal community is spatially heterogeneous and resistant to global change drivers and houses many fungal species known for being stress tolerant and pathogenic.
Reconstruction of Araucaria araucana cone production reveals warming intensifies regionally synchronized masting
Authors: Hacket‐Pain Andrew , Roig Fidel A. , Ascoli Davide , LeQuesne Carlos , Hadad Martin
Published: December 2024

The reproduction of many long‐lived plants is highly variable and synchronized, known as masting. Masting is a key driver of plant regeneration dynamics and has cascading effects on food webs and carbon and nutrient fluxes through ecosystems. Masting patterns can respond to changes in climate, but natural long‐term variability in masting behavior (i.e., baseline variability) is poorly understood. Here we use tree‐rings to create a four‐century reconstruction of annual cone production to uncover centennial‐scale evolution in masting of Araucaria araucana, a dioecious masting species in South America. Over the last four decades, direct observations of annual cone production in this species revealed remarkable range‐wide synchrony of masting. Our tree‐ring‐based reconstruction places this in a long‐term context, revealing that intense regional masting is not a consistent feature of A. araucana reproduction. For extensive periods over the last four centuries, masting has been a site‐specific phenomenon, with variability in cone production that was not regionally synchronized. Comparison with regional climate reconstructions indicates that regional synchrony of masting varies with regional temperature trends, including during recent decades. During warmer periods, synchrony is enhanced, and during cooler periods, regional synchrony breaks down. These dynamics have implications for understanding the reproduction of this iconic and endangered tree species and provide evidence of long‐term linkages between climate change and masting behavior. Our study demonstrates the potential for novel tree‐ring‐based reconstructions of masting to reveal crucial insights into baseline variability and the response of masting to climate change.
Ebbs and Flows of Marine Biodiversity: Navigating Spatiotemporal Patterns of Environmental DNA in a Coastal Tidal Ecosystem
Authors: Scriver Michelle , von Ammon Ulla , Pochon Xavier , Zirngibl Martin , Audrezet Francois , Leonard Kaeden , Pedersen Kylie , Bamford Nick , Tahere Ngairo , Stanton Jo‐Ann L. , Gemmell Neil J. , Zaiko Anastasija
Published: December 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) offers an efficient approach to biodiversity monitoring and biosecurity surveillance in coastal ecosystems. Understanding eDNA dynamics in tidal areas is critical for guiding sampling strategy design and interpreting molecular detection results. In a field study conducted at Ōpua, Bay of Islands, Aotearoa, New Zealand, an international marina with a dynamic coastal environment, we investigated eDNA detection patterns across a local spatial and temporal gradient. Hourly samples were collected from six sampling stations around the marina, from artificial shore structures and a channel, over a 12‐h tidal cycle. Detected eukaryotic communities were assessed using eDNA metabarcoding analysis of the small‐subunit ribosomal RNA (18S rRNA) and mitochondrial Cytochrome C Oxidase subunit I (COI) genes. This core community was screened for marine nonindigenous species (NIS) using an online metabarcoding data screening app (ExPAT). Community composition varied significantly based on sampling location and time, with most of the core community captured around mid‐tide. The NIS community exhibited inconsistent detection for some species (e.g., the amphipod Monocorophium acherusicum) across space and time, whereas other NIS (e.g., the mussel Arcuatula senhousia) were consistently detected and behaved similar to the core community. Overall, species‐specific eDNA detection patterns may be linked to the biology and movement of the organism. The results indicated slightly higher NIS detection from artificial structures at the shore stations and within 2 h of low tide. For marine biosecurity applications, users may want to prioritize sampling near‐shore during low tide, while samples collected during mid‐tide may provide more comprehensive insights into the core community for biomonitoring. Further field studies across multiple tidal cycles and marinas may guide the standardization of molecular biomonitoring and biosurveillance sampling strategies and support their broader integration into marine biosecurity programs.