bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Basophils Can Directly Present or Cross-Present Antigen to CD8 Lymphocytes and Alter CD8 T Cell Differentiation into IL-10-Producing Phenotypes
Authors: Kim Sohee , Shen Tao , Min Booki
Published: August 2009

There is increasing evidence suggesting that basophils play a critical role in developing Th2-type immunity both in vitro and in vivo. We previously reported that basophils cocultured with naive CD4 T cells stimulated with Ag promote the differentiation of the T cells into IL-4-producing Th2 cells. In the present study, we examined the roles of basophils during CD8 T cell activation. Although stimulating OVA-specific OT-I CD8 T cells with OVA peptide-pulsed splenic dendritic cells primarily induced the production of IFN-γ, adding basophils into the coculture induced IL-10 production. Surprisingly, basophils were capable of directly presenting peptide Ag or of cross-presenting protein Ag to CD8 T cells. CD28-mediated costimulation dramatically enhanced T cell IL-10 production, yet neither ICOS nor CD86 was involved in IL-10 production. Basophil-mediated IL-10 induction was greatly diminished without IL-4 or IL-6, indicating that these cytokines are necessary for programming CD8 T cell IL-10 production. Adding IL-4 or IL-6 into CD8/APC coculture was not sufficient to induce IL-10 production; however, the presence of both cytokines significantly induced IL-10 production without basophils. Finally, CD8 T cells producing IL-10 induced by basophils did not display regulatory cell functions. Collectively, these results suggest a novel function of basophils that act as professional APCs to present Ag to CD8 T cells, thus inducing IL-10 production.
Roles of the TRAF2/3 Binding Site in Differential B Cell Signaling by CD40 and Its Viral Oncogenic Mimic, LMP1
Authors: Graham John P. , Moore Carissa R. , Bishop Gail A.
Published: August 2009

The EBV protein, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), is a functional mimic of the cellular receptor CD40, but signals to B lymphocytes in an amplified and sustained manner compared with CD40. LMP1 contributes to the development of B cell lymphoma in immunosuppressed patients, and may exacerbate flares of certain autoimmune diseases. The cytoplasmic domain of LMP1 binds the signaling adaptor TRAF2 with lower avidity than the cytoplasmic domain of CD40, and TRAF2 is needed for CD40-mediated degradation of TRAFs 2 and 3. LMP1 doesn’t induce TRAF degradation, and employs TRAF3 as a positive mediator of cell signaling, whereas CD40 signals are inhibited by TRAF3. We thus tested the hypothesis that relative affinity for TRAF2, and/or distinct sequence differences in the TRAF2/3 binding sites of CD40 vs LMP1, controls the disparate ways in which CD40 and LMP1 use TRAFs 2 and 3, and their distinct signaling characteristics. CD40 and LMP1 mutants in which the TRAF binding site sequences were swapped were examined, testing TRAF binding and degradation, and induction of B cell activation. Results revealed that TRAF binding affinity and TRAF binding site sequence dictate a distinct subset of CD40 vs LMP1 signaling properties. Examination of TRAF binding, degradation, cytokine production, IgM secretion, and the activation of c-Jun kinase and NF-κB revealed that some events are dictated by TRAF binding site sequences, others are partially regulated, and still others are independent of the TRAF binding site sequence.
Complement Protease MASP-1 Activates Human Endothelial Cells: PAR4 Activation Is a Link between Complement and Endothelial Function
Authors: Megyeri Márton , Makó Veronika , Beinrohr László , Doleschall Zoltán , Prohászka Zoltán , Cervenak László , Závodszky Péter , Gál Péter
Published: August 2009

Activation of the complement system can induce and enhance inflammatory reaction. Mannose-binding lectin-associated serine protease-1 (MASP-1) is an abundant protease of the complement lectin pathway; however, its physiological function is unclear. In this study, we demonstrate for the first time that MASP-1 is able to activate Ca2+ signaling, NF-κB, and p38 MAPK pathways in cultured HUVECs. Activation was initiated by MASP-1 only; the related protease, MASP-2, had no such effect. The phenomenon was dependent on the proteolytic activity of MASP-1, suggesting modulation of endothelial cell function through a protease-activated receptor (PAR). Using synthetic peptide substrates representing the protease-sensitive regions of PARs, we were able to demonstrate that PAR4 is a target of MASP-1. The presence of functionally active PAR4 in HUVECs was demonstrated using PAR4 agonist peptide and mRNA quantification. Finally, we showed that the amount of membrane-bound intact PAR4 decreases after MASP-1 treatment. All of these results provide a novel link between the regulation of endothelial cell function and complement system activation, and they suggest that MASP-1-induced PAR4 activation could contribute to the development of the inflammatory reaction.
Smallpox Inhibitor of Complement Enzymes (SPICE): Dissecting Functional Sites and Abrogating Activity
Authors: Liszewski M. Kathryn , Leung Marilyn K. , Hauhart Richard , Fang Celia J. , Bertram Paula , Atkinson John P.
Published: August 2009

Although smallpox was eradicated as a global illness more than 30 years ago, variola virus and other related pathogenic poxviruses, such as monkeypox, remain potential bioterrorist weapons or could re-emerge as natural infections. Poxviruses express virulence factors that down-modulate the host’s immune system. We previously compared functional profiles of the poxviral complement inhibitors of smallpox, vaccinia, and monkeypox known as SPICE, VCP (or VICE), and MOPICE, respectively. SPICE was the most potent regulator of human complement and attached to cells via glycosaminoglycans. The major goals of the present study were to further characterize the complement regulatory and heparin binding sites of SPICE and to evaluate a mAb that abrogates its function. Using substitution mutagenesis, we established that (1) elimination of the three heparin binding sites severely decreases but does not eliminate glycosaminoglycan binding, (2) there is a hierarchy of activity for heparin binding among the three sites, and (3) complement regulatory sites overlap with each of the three heparin binding motifs. By creating chimeras with interchanges of SPICE and VCP residues, a combination of two SPICE amino acids (H77 plus K120) enhances VCP activity ∼200-fold. Also, SPICE residue L131 is critical for both complement regulatory function and accounts for the electrophoretic differences between SPICE and VCP. An evolutionary history for these structure-function adaptations of SPICE is proposed. Finally, we identified and characterized a mAb that inhibits the complement regulatory activity of SPICE, MOPICE, and VCP and thus could be used as a therapeutic agent.
Economic Evaluation of Enhanced vs Standard Varenicline Treatment for Tobacco Cessation
Authors: Mundt Marlon P. , Stein James H. , Fiore Michael C. , Baker Timothy B.
Published: April 2024

Importance

Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death and illness in the US. Identifying cost-effective smoking cessation treatment may increase the likelihood that health systems deliver such treatment to their patients who smoke.

Objective

To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of standard vs enhanced varenicline use (extended varenicline treatment or varenicline in combination with nicotine replacement therapy) among individuals trying to quit smoking.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This economic evaluation assesses the Quitting Using Intensive Treatments Study (QUITS), which randomized 1251 study participants who smoked into 4 conditions: (1) 12-week varenicline monotherapy (n = 315); (2) 24-week varenicline monotherapy (n = 311); (3) 12-week varenicline combination treatment with nicotine replacement therapy patch (n = 314); or (4) 24-week varenicline combination treatment with nicotine replacement therapy patch (n = 311). Study enrollment occurred in Madison and Milwaukee, Wisconsin, between November 11, 2017, and July 2, 2020. Statistical analysis took place from May to October 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was 7-day point prevalence abstinence (biochemically confirmed with exhaled carbon monoxide level ≤5 ppm) at 52 weeks. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), or cost per additional person who quit smoking, was calculated using decision tree analysis based on abstinence and cost for each arm of the trial.

Results

Of the 1251 participants, mean (SD) age was 49.1 (11.9) years, 675 (54.0%) were women, and 881 (70.4%) completed the 52-week follow-up. Tobacco cessation at 52 weeks was 25.1% (79 of 315) for 12-week monotherapy, 24.4% (76 of 311) for 24-week monotherapy, 23.6% (74 of 314) for 12-week combination therapy, and 25.1% (78 of 311) for 24-week combination therapy, respectively. The total mean (SD) cost was $1175 ($365) for 12-week monotherapy, $1374 ($412) for 12-week combination therapy, $2022 ($813) for 24-week monotherapy, and $2118 ($1058) for 24-week combination therapy. The ICER for 12-week varenicline monotherapy was $4681 per individual who quit smoking and $4579 per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) added. The ICER for 24-week varenicline combination therapy relative to 12-week monotherapy was $92 000 000 per additional individual who quit smoking and $90 000 000 (95% CI, $15 703 to dominated or more costly and less efficacious) per additional QALY.

Conclusions and Relevance

This economic evaluation of standard vs enhanced varenicline treatment for smoking cessation suggests that 12-week varenicline monotherapy was the most cost-effective treatment option at the commonly cited threshold of $100 000/QALY. This study provides patients, health care professionals, and other stakeholders with increased understanding of the health and economic impact of more intensive varenicline treatment options.
Implications of Health Equity for Children With Disabilities
Authors: Ayers Kara B. , Riddle Ilka
Published: April 2024

This Viewpoint discusses how the National Institutes of Health designation of individuals with disabilities as a health disparity population can boost research participation and funding and expand health care access for pediatric patients with disabilities.
Terahertz Magnetic Moiré Grating for Enhanced Chirality Manipulation and Nonreciprocal Spin Isolation
Authors: Zhao Dan , Fan Fei , Xue Qiang , Wang Hao , Ji Yunyun , Yang Qinghui , Wen Qiye , Chang Shengjiang
Published: April 2024

Magneto‐optical activity is a significant way to achieve asymmetric transmission for spin photons. However, it is severely limited by the weak light‐matter interaction in the terahertz (THz) region. In this work, a magnetic Moiré grating (MMG) is constructed by sandwiching an Yttrium iron garnet (YIG) single crystal in a pair of twisted 2D subwavelength gratings. The twisted angle between two gratings introduces a strong geometric Moiré chirality related to the Moiré pattern. When an external magnetic field is applied to the YIG layer, three different symmetries of spacial mirror image, time reversal, and spin conjugation are broken simultaneously under the chiral coupling between magneto‐optical activity and Moiré chirality, leading to both the enhanced magneto‐optical chiral transmission and the nonreciprocal spin isolation. Under the magnetic field varying from −0.26 to +0.26 T in the experiment, the MMG achieves an active modulation of circular dichroism from 39 to −37.5 dB and optical activity from −35° to 30°. Moreover, the maximum spin isolation over 32.6 dB is also obtained near 0.5 THz. This mechanism provide a new way to realize independent manipulation and active modulation of THz spin photons more flexibly.
Sterically Hindered Oleogel‐Based Underwater Adhesive Enabled by Mesh‐Tailoring Strategy
Authors: Zhang Bin , Zhang Pengli , Zhang Guoliang , Ma Chunfeng , Zhang Guangzhao
Published: April 2024

Underwater adhesives hold significant relevance in daily life and numerous industrial applications. Despite considerable efforts, developing scalable, high‐performance underwater adhesives through a simple and effective method remains a formidable challenge. This study presents a novel mesh‐tailoring strategy for in situ, rapid, and ultrastrong oleogel‐based underwater adhesives (OUA), which comprises a highly crosslinked polyurethane network with a matching mesh size (≈2.22 nm) that precisely entraps bio‐based epoxidized soybean oil (ESO) molecules (≈2.31 nm) by steric hindrance effect. This oleogel exhibits unprecedented robust mechanical properties (≈35 MPa) and maintains stability under extreme conditions, including high temperatures (100 °C), high pressures (30 MPa), and immersion in various solvents (water, ethanol, or ESO). In particular, this oleogel displays high hydrophobicity, rapid curing, and strong interface affinity, resulting in ultrahigh underwater adhesion strength (up to 2.13 MPa) and exceptional substrate universality. Moreover, the remarkable environmental adaptability and stability of OUA enable its use in harsh aqueous environments, including acidic/alkaline, saline, and extreme temperature solutions. The comprehensive capabilities of the OUA underscore its potential for building underwater structures, repairing leaky containers, and sealing broken submarine pipelines. This research establishes the foundation for the designing of next‐generation underwater adhesives and offers fresh perspectives for exploring oleogel‐based materials.
Photochemical Synthesis of Chiral Heterocycles via Asymmetric Carbon‐Heteroatom Bond Formation
Authors: Brijwashi Sharma Yogesh , Saha Sanjukta , Mohan Guru Murali
Published: April 2024

Chiral heterocyclic compounds play a crucial role in the pharmaceutical science, materials science, and agrochemical industries. The critical step for synthesizing chiral heterocycles is the formation of asymmetric carbon‐heteroatom bonds, which can be achieved in a chiral environment under thermal or photochemical conditions. However, photochemical asymmetric transformation has become an area of immense growth in the past 15 years. In the drug discovery and development era, chiral photochemical transformations have drawn the attention of researchers to develop new synthetic strategies for chiral heterocycles via asymmetric carbon‐heteroatom bond formation. Chiral photochemistry in the pathway of asymmetric synthesis requires a chirality source which is transferred to the products. A catalytic chiral metal complexing agent or a chiral photosensitizer that generally follows a single electron transfer (SET) or oxidative and reductive quenching cycle has been widely exploited to achieve this goal. In this review, we have demonstrated the recent development of photochemical synthesis of chiral heterocycles via asymmetric carbon‐heteroatom bond formation by using a chiral metal catalyst, asymmetric organocatalyst, or dual catalytic system based on their plausible mechanism.
Mild and Catalyst‐Free Phosphination of Isocyanates with [TBA][P(SiCl3)2] for the Synthesis of Phosphinecarboxamides
Authors: Xu Wen‐Bo , Li Ming , Chai Yao , Tian Ya‐Ling , Wang Xi‐Cun , Quan Zheng‐Jun
Published: April 2024

A procedure utilizing [TBA][P(SiCl3)2] as P source for the synthesis of phosphinecarboxamides is presented. The synthesis involves the reaction of [TBA][P(SiCl3)2] with isocyanates. These compounds act as highly effective reagents for the subsequent phosphination of isocyanates, leading to the formation of phosphine(triscarboxamides). This reaction proceeds swiftly under mild and straightforward conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of commercially available isocyanates.
Regiodivergent and Enantioselective Synthesis of Cyclic Sulfones via Ligand‐Controlled Nickel‐Catalyzed Hydroalkylation
Authors: Fan Chao , Dhawa Uttam , Qian Deyun , Sakic Davor , Morel Jennifer , Hu Xile
Published: April 2024

Cyclic sulfones have demonstrated important applications in drug discovery. However, the catalytic and enantioselective synthesis of chiral cyclic sulfones remains challenging. Herein, we develop nickel‐catalyzed regiodivergent and enantioselective hydroalkylation of sulfolenes to streamline the synthesis of chiral alkyl cyclic sulfones. The method has broad scope and high functional group tolerance. The regioselectivity can be controlled by ligands only. A neutral PYROX ligand favors C3‐alkylation whereas an anionic BOX ligand favors C2‐alkylation. This control is kinetic in origin as the C2‐bound Ni intermediates are always thermodynamically more stable. Reactivity study of a wide range of relevant Ni intermediates reveal a NiI/NiIII catalytic cycle with a NiII−H species as the resting state. The regio‐ and enantio‐determining step is the insertion of this NiII−H species into 2‐sulfolene. This work provides an efficient catalytic method for the synthesis of an important class of organic compounds and enhances the mechanistic understanding of Ni‐catalyzed stereoselective hydroalkylation.
Type I Photoinitiator Based on Sustainable Carbon Dots
Authors: Li Ruiping , Guo Hongda , Luo Xiongfei , Wang Qunying , Pang Yulian , Li Shujun , Liu Shouxin , Li Jian , Strehmel Bernd , Chen Zhijun
Published: April 2024

Sustainable carbon dots comprising surficial oxime ester groups following homolytic bond cleavage exhibit potential as photoinitiators for traditional free radical photopolymerization. Carbon dots were made following a solvothermal procedure from sustainable furfural available from lignocellulose. Surficial aldehyde moieties reacted with hydroxylamine to the respective oxime while reaction with benzoyl chloride resulted in a biobased Type I photoinitiator comprising sustainable carbon dot (CD‐PI). Photoinitiating ability was compared with the traditional photoinitiator (PI) ethyl (2,4,6‐trimethyl benzoyl) phenyl phosphinate (TPO‐L) by real‐time FTIR with UV exposure at 365 nm. Photopolymer composition based on a mixture of urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) and tripropylene glycol diacrylate (TPGDA) resulted in a similar final conversion of about 70 % using either CD‐PI or TPO‐L. Nevertheless, it appeared homogeneous in the case of compositions processed with CD‐PI, while those made with TPO‐L were heterogeneous as shown by two glass transition temperatures. Moreover, the migration rate of CD‐PI in the cured samples was lower in comparison with those samples using TPO‐L as PI.
Cyano group‐containing DOPO derivative for improving the flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and mechanical properties of epoxy resins
Authors: Zhang Juan , Ma Huiru , Gao Yuan , Kang Jing , Li Ya , Chen Yuan , Liu Weipeng , Duan Huajun
Published: April 2024

In order to obtain an efficient flame retardant and smoke suppressor without sacrificing mechanical properties of epoxy resin (EP). A cyano group‐containing 9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) derivative (CP‐DOPO) was proposed and synthesized through one‐step Atherton–Todd reaction between DOPO and 4‐cyanophenol. The comprehensive performance analysis of CP‐DOPO‐based EP composite was conducted by measuring the flame retardancy, smoke suppression, and mechanical properties. The flame‐retardant test findings shows that the EP/4CP‐DOPO sample achieves UL‐94 V‐0 rating with 4 wt% low addition of CP‐DOPO. Moreover, EP/6CP‐DOPO sample presents a LOI of 36.5%, a 28.1% reduction in the peak heat release rate, and a 42.1% substantial decrease in total smoke production, demonstrating its desirable flame retardancy and smoke suppression properties. Significantly, different from the traditionally additive flame retardants, the mechanical properties of EP matrix will not be affected by the incorporation of CP‐DOPO but a 17.7% increasement of flexural properties compared to EP. This research not only provides an ingenious strategy for designing and preparing high‐effective flame retardant but also enhances the comprehensive performance of EP resins in practical applications.
Synthesis and characterization of high strength and ultraviolet transmitting silicone rubber reinforced by organic solvent‐soluble trimethylsiloxysilicate polymers (MQ and MTQ copolymers)
Authors: Wu Yu , Qi Yinghao , Liu Weiqi , Zhao Jingshun , Dai Chuanchuan , Li Zhaoxin , Gao Jiaqi , Chen Xuhuang
Published: April 2024

Additional‐type liquid silicone rubber (ALSR) has poor mechanical properties, and conventional methods to reinforce it are at the cost of decreasing transparency. Here, vinyl MQ and fluorine‐containing MTQ silicone resins were synthesized by the sol–gel method. Then, high strength and ultraviolet (UV) transmitting ALSR were prepared using MQ and MTQ silicone resins as reinforcing agents, vinyl‐terminated silicone oil, and polydimethylmethylhydrosiloxane as matrix, respectively. The results show that the enhancement effect of MTQ silicone resin on the mechanical properties of ALSR resin is better than that of MQ silicone resin due to the vinyl content of MTQ silicone resin being higher than that of MQ silicone resin. Compared with pure ALSR, the tensile strength, Young's modulus, and Shore hardness of ALSR with 7 wt% MTQ silicone resin are enhanced by 435%, 127%, and 14%, respectively. The thermal stability of ALSR is slightly increased. The modified silicone rubber also has favorable transparency. Additionally, the MTQ/ALSR composites show higher UV transmittance than MQ/ALSR systems owing to the introduction of fluorine element increasing UV transmittance. The high strength and UV transmittance silicone rubber composites were prepared by using a small addition of MTQ silicone resin.
Comfort levels and experiences of middle school and high school age children in anatomical donor‐based anatomy outreach sessions
Authors: Asri Rijul , Baquerizo Humberto , Padilla‐Register Mercedes , Soto‐Greene Maria L. , Grachan Jeremy J.
Published: April 2024

Many health professions schools host anatomy outreach sessions for high school students that utilize anatomical donors. However, teaching with anatomical donors for younger learners is uncommon. This study aimed to assess the comfort levels and experiences of students who attended the anatomy sessions as part of summer programs at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. Younger learners (students entering grades 7–10; n = 25) and older learners (students entering grades 11–12; n = 33) completed pre‐ and post‐session surveys about their comfort using a 5‐point Likert scale. Before the sessions, most students felt comfortable or very comfortable learning from isolated organs (μ = 2.7, SD = 1.3) or full‐body donors (μ = 2.4, SD = 1.4), even though most have never been to an anatomical donor lab before. After the sessions, the comfort level significantly increased for both isolated organs (μ = 3.3, SD = 1.1; p = 0.02) and full‐body donors (μ = 3.1, SD = 1.2; p = 0.004). For isolated organs, there was no significant difference in the comfort level between younger and older learners before (p = 0.50) or after (p = 0.56) the sessions. Similarly, for full‐body donors, there was no significant difference in the comfort level between younger and older learners before (p = 0.95) or after (p = 0.75) the sessions. Most students expressed that the experience was unique and positive. In conclusion, most students entering grades 7–12 felt comfortable learning from isolated organs and full‐body anatomical donors prior to the sessions and felt more comfortable after the sessions. With this, anatomy outreach programs that utilize anatomical donors could be expanded to include younger learners to provide more dynamic teaching experiences for students of various ages.
Pristine Metal‐Organic Frameworks for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Li Chao , Ni Tao , Yue Min , Li Shujun , Zhang Qichun
Published: April 2024

Owing to their adjustable redox‐active sites, designable structures high porosity, and fully activated organic ligands, pristine metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have been widely utilized as advanced electrode materials (i. e., both anodes and cathodes) for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) to satisfied the insertion/extraction larger size and mass of Na+ cations, achieving significant progresses with excellent electrochemical performance in electrochemical energy storage devices. Here, the recent advances on pristine MOFs as anodes and cathodes for SIBs are summarized. A thorough investigation delves into the detailed characteristics, energy storage mechanisms, and electrochemical performance of diverse pristine MOFs for SIBs are also clarified. Furthermore, the outlooks on pristine MOF electrodes in SIBs are also provided.
Heterochromatin repeat organization at an individual level: Rex1BD and the 14‐3‐3 protein coordinate to shape the epigenetic landscape within heterochromatin repeats
Authors: Gao Jinxin , Li Fei
Published: April 2024

In eukaryotic cells, heterochromatin is typically composed of tandem DNA repeats and plays crucial roles in gene expression and genome stability. It has been reported that silencing at individual units within tandem heterochromatin repeats exhibits a position‐dependent variation. However, how the heterochromatin is organized at an individual repeat level remains poorly understood. Using a novel genetic approach, our recent study identified a conserved protein Rex1BD required for position‐dependent silencing within heterochromatin repeats. We further revealed that Rex1BD interacts with the 14‐3‐3 protein to regulate heterochromatin silencing by linking RNAi and HDAC pathways. In this review, we discuss how Rex1BD and the 14‐3‐3 protein coordinate to modulate heterochromatin organization at the individual repeat level, and comment on the biological significance of the position‐dependent effect in heterochromatin repeats. We also identify the knowledge gaps that still need to be unveiled in the field.
Surface Engineering of BiVO4 Photoanodes for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting: Recent Advances
Authors: Arunachalam Prabhakarn , Amer Mabrook S. , Al‐Mayouf Abdullah M. , Alsaleh Ahmad A.
Published: April 2024

Energy demand worldwide demands clean, cheap, and renewable energy. Through the use of photoelectrochemical (PEC) conversion, solar energy can be transformed into chemical energy. Bismuth vanadate (BiVO4), a material exhibiting visible light activity, favourable conduction band edge energies, and ease of synthesis, has become increasingly popular in recent years. In BiVO4, charge carriers recombine rapidly, which adversely affects the PEC performance and stability. There have been several strategies developed to mitigate these deficiencies, including novel heterojunctions, doping with metals, coupling with cocatalysts, interface modification and modifying morphology. To achieve the best results, it is required to develop PEC devices with exceptional cost‐to‐efficiency ratios and long‐term durability. This review also examines novel yet commercially viable applications for BiVO4‐based photoanodes. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and perspectives facing PEC water splitting systems based on BiVO4.
An adaptive strategy for time‐varying batch process fault prediction based on stochastic configuration network
Authors: Liu Kai , Zhao Xiaoqiang , Hui Yongyong , Jiang Hongmei
Published: April 2024

Fault prediction ensures safe and stable production, and cuts maintenance costs. Due to the changing operating conditions that lead to the changes in the characteristics of industrial processes, there is a need to monitor the fault state of batch processes in real‐time and to accurately predict fault trends. An adaptive slow feature analysis‐neighborhood preserving embedding‐improved stochastic configuration network (SFA‐NPE‐ISCN) algorithm for batch process fault prediction is proposed. Firstly, SFA is used to extract the time‐varying features of process data and establish the update index of the NPE model. Then, to extract local nearest‐neighbor features and reconstruct them by the NPE model with adaptive update capability, square prediction error (SPE) statistics are constructed as fault state features based on the reconstructed error. Further, the hunter‐prey optimization (HPO) algorithm optimizes the weights and biases in the stochastic configuration network, and the singular value decomposition (SVD) and QR decomposition of column rotation are introduced to solve the ill‐posed problem of SCN and obtain the prediction model of ISCN. Finally, the obtained statistics SPE is formed into a time series, and the ISCN model is used to predict the process state trend. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is verified by case studies of industrial‐scale penicillin fermentation processes and the Hot strip mill process.
Short Peptide and Amino Acid‐Based Supramolecular Ionogels and Eutectogels
Authors: Esteves Carina , Roque Ana Cecília A.
Published: April 2024

The capability of peptide and amino acid‐based molecules to act as ionogelators and eutectogelators entrapping ionic liquids (ILs) and deep eutectic solvents (DESs) forming ionogels and eutectogels has gathered attention in recent decades. The self‐assembly process, primarily driven by non‐covalent interactions as hydrogen bonding, remains serendipitous in nature. This review provides a comprehensive and detailed report on self‐assembly of unmodified and modified amino acids and peptides in the non‐conventional solvents, ILs and DESs. Understanding these processes holds great promise for the development of innovative soft‐materials, and to the progress of supramolecular systems in non‐conventional solvent environments.
Cold Pressing of Perovskite‐ZIF Glass Interpenetrating Networks with Stable Photoelectric Response
Authors: Xia Zhu Hui , Sun Yu Ting , Wei Zhanpeng , Peng Yu , Hou Yu , Yang Shuang
Published: April 2024

The protection of lead halide perovskite within a stable matrix normally leads to the loss of semiconducting properties. Here, we report the synthesis of perovskite‐ZIF glass interpenetrating networks via a cold pressing method, which allows the advantages of bright photoluminescence, high photoconductivity and environmental stability. This hybrid architecture has provided a novel design strategy for the real‐world application of perovskite‐based devices.
PROTOCOL: Methods used in the development, production and updating of evidence and gap maps: A scoping review
Authors: Campbell Fiona , Wong Ruth , Llewellyen Jennifer L. , Stoniute Akvile , Pearson Fiona , Bond Melissa
Published: April 2024

Evidence and gap maps (EGMs) are an increasinly popular approach used in evidence synthesis. As an approach they address broad research questions, describing the existing evidence base, highlighting evidence gaps and providing an interactive visual tool for knowledge users. The purpose of this methodological study is to explore the the processes used in the development of EGM's and how they are reported. The aim is to better understand current practice and identify where clearer guidance is needed to support their production.
Top advances of the year: Melanoma
Authors: Khattak Muhammad Adnan , Luke Jason J.
Published: April 2024

The field of melanoma therapeutics is moving quickly with the first approval of adoptive cell transfer in solid tumors. Moreover, individualized neoantigen therapies, PRAME‐targeting strategies, oncolytic viruses, and more are rapidly emerging.
Hydroxyapatite: An Eco‐Friendly Material for Enzyme Immobilization
Authors: Gelati Leonardo , Rabuffetti Marco , Benaglia Maurizio , Campisi Sebastiano , Gervasini Antonella , Speranza Giovanna , Morelli Carlo F.
Published: April 2024

Biocatalysis has emerged in the last decade as a valuable and eco‐friendly tool in chemical synthesis, allowing in several instances to reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous reagents, environmentally dangerous solvents and harsh reaction conditions. Enzymes are indeed able to catalyse chemical transformations on non‐natural substrates under mild reaction conditions, still maintaining their high chemo‐, regio‐, and stereoselectivity. Enzyme immobilization, i. e. the grafting of enzymes on solid supports, can be viewed as an enabling technology, as it allows a better control of the reaction and the recycling of the biocatalyst, thus rendering economically viable the use of expensive enzymes also on a large scale. To pursue a sustainable approach, the supports for enzyme immobilization should be eco‐friendly and possibly renewable. This review highlights the use of hydroxyapatite (HAP), an inorganic biomaterial able to confer strength and stiffness to the bone tissue in animals, as carrier for enzyme immobilization. HAP is a cheap, non‐toxic and biocompatible material, with high surface area and protein affinity. Different enzyme classes, immobilization strategies, and the use of diverse HAP‐based supports will be discussed, underlining the immobilization conditions and the properties of the obtained biocatalysts.
Unveiling stress markers: A systematic review investigating psychological stress biomarkers
Authors: Shah Khushi , Kumari Ruchi , Jain Mukul
Published: April 2024

Psychological stress is a ubiquitous facet of modern life, impacting individuals across diverse contexts and demographics. Understanding its physiological manifestations through biomarkers has gained substantial attention within the scientific community. A comprehensive search was conducted across multiple databases for peer‐reviewed articles published within the past decade. Preliminary findings reveal many biomarkers associated with psychological stress across different biological systems, including the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, immune system, cardiovascular system, and central nervous system. This systematic review explores psychological, physiological, and biochemical biomarkers associated with stress. Analyzing recent literature, it synthesizes findings across these three categories, elucidating their respective roles in stress response mechanisms. Psychological markers involve subjective assessments like self‐reported stress levels, perceived stress scales, or psychometric evaluations measuring anxiety, depression, or coping mechanisms. Physiological markers include heart rate variability, blood pressure, and immune system responses such as cytokine levels or inflammatory markers. Biochemical markers involve hormones or chemicals linked to stress. It includes cortisol, catecholamines, copeptin, salivary amylase, IL‐6, and C‐reactive protein.
Synchrony in adult survival is remarkably strong among common temperate songbirds across France
Authors: Ghislain Manon , Bonnet Timothée , Godeau Ugoline , Dehorter Olivier , Gimenez Olivier , Henry Pierre‐Yves
Published: April 2024

Synchronous variation in demographic parameters across species increases the risk of simultaneous local extinction, which lowers the probability of subsequent recolonization. Synchrony therefore tends to destabilize meta‐populations and meta‐communities. Quantifying interspecific synchrony in demographic parameters, like abundance, survival, or reproduction, is thus a way to indirectly assess the stability of meta‐populations and meta‐communities. Moreover, it is particularly informative to identify environmental drivers of interspecific synchrony because those drivers are important across species. Using a Bayesian hierarchical multisite multispecies mark–recapture model, we investigated temporal interspecific synchrony in annual adult apparent survival for 16 common songbird species across France for the period 2001–2016. Annual adult survival was largely synchronous among species (73%, 95% credible interval [47%–94%] of the variation among years was common to all species), despite species differing in ecological niche and life history. This result was robust to different model formulations, uneven species sample sizes, and removing the long‐term trend in survival. Synchrony was also shared across migratory strategies, which suggests that environmental forcing during the 4‐month temperate breeding season has a large‐scale, interspecific impact on songbird survival. However, the strong interspecific synchrony was not easily explained by a set of candidate weather variables we defined a priori. Spring weather variables explained only 1.4% [0.01%–5.5%] of synchrony, while the contribution of large‐scale winter weather indices may have been stronger but uncertain, accounting for 12% [0.3%–37%] of synchrony. Future research could jointly model interspecific variation and covariation in breeding success, age‐dependent survival, and age‐dependent dispersal to understand when interspecific synchrony in abundance emerges and destabilizes meta‐communities.
Oligomer and Polymer: Self Assembly of [Cp*Fe(η5‐P5)] and Ag(I) Salts of Bulky Weakly Coordinating Anions
Authors: Mondal Bijan , Riesinger Christoph , Fleischmann Martin , Scheer Manfred
Published: April 2024

Reactions between the five‐fold symmetric building block [Cp*Fe(η5‐P5)] (A) and Ag(I) salts containing bulky weakly coordinating anions [TEF] and [FAL] ([TEF]=[Al{OC(CF3)3}4]–, [FAl]=[FAl{OC6F10(C6F5)}3]–) are presented. While, in the presence of Ag[TEF], A leads to the formation of a hitherto condensed 1D coordination polymer [{Ag(η2:η1‐A)2}]n[TEF]n (1), a new finite tetranuclear Ag(I) complex [{Ag4(η1‐A)2(η2:η1‐A)4(η1:η1‐A)2}][FAL]4 (3) was obtained with an Ag(I) salt bearing the weakly coordinating anion [FAl] increased in size. Various coordination modes (η2:η1; η1:η1 and η1) of A were observed in the solid‐state structure of 3, reflecting the adaptive coordination behavior of A towards Ag(I) ions. Structural modifications of the 1D polymer (1) can be controlled by the addition of a limited amount of MeCN yielding the unwound heteroleptic 1D polymer [{Ag(MeCN)2}3(η1:η1:η1‐A)2]n[TEF]3n (2). Moreover, in the presence of MeCN, the finite oligomeric compound 3 can also be converted into a new heteroleptic 1D polymer [{Ag(MeCN)}4(η1:η1‐A)5(η2:η1‐A)2]n[FAL]4n (4). The solid‐state structure of 4 discloses the existence of a unique 1,1,2‐η2:η1 (π,σ) coordination of A along with 1,3‐η1:η1 (σ) and 1,2‐η1:η1 (σ) coordination modes, while 1,2,4‐η1:η1:η1 (σ) coordination modes of A were found in 2. As revealed by X‐ray crystallography, in all the cases, the cationic moieties are well separated from the weakly coordinating anions in the solid state.
Synthesis and Optical and Theoretical Characterization of Imidazo[5,1‐a]isoquinolines and Imidazo[1,5‐a]quinolines
Authors: Rössiger Carina , Oel Thomas , Schweitzer Pascal , Vasylets Olesia , Kirchner Michael , Abdullahu Ajlin , Schlettwein Derck , Göttlich Richard
Published: April 2024

Imidazo[1,5‐a]quinolines emit intense blue luminescence, suggesting their possible use as emitter molecules in organic light‐emitting diodes. We synthesized several new imidazo[5,1‐a]isoquinolines and found they possessed a characteristic hypsochromic effect and even increased quantum efficiency compared to the homolog imidazo[1,5‐a]quinolines, as measured by UV‐vis‐ and fluorescence spectroscopy in solution. The energies of the highest occupied and lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals were calculated using density functional theory and experimentally determined by cyclic voltammetry in solution. We obtained a maximum fluorescence quantum yield of 48 % at 446 nm for the newly synthesized 3‐(4‐cyanophenyl)‐1‐(pyridyl)imidazo[5,1‐a]isoquinoline with an optimized substitution pattern. For 1‐phenyl‐3‐(2‐pyridinyl)imidazo[5,1‐a]isoquinoline, a quantum yield of 33 % was obtained at an even shorter emission wavelength of 431 nm.
The applicability of automated marine clay gully delineation using deep learning in Norway
Authors: Ganerød Alexandra Jarna , van Boeckel Mikis , Solberg Inger‐Lise
Published: April 2024

Gullies and ravines are common landforms in raised marine fine‐grained deposits in Norway. Gullies in marine clay are significant landforms indicative of soil erosion and natural hazards and are of high conservation value. As a result of the substantial impact of human intervention over the past century, marine clay gullies are now red‐listed. To monitor the condition of these landforms, we need to improve our understanding of their spatial extent, complexity and morphology. We explore the applicability of automated approaches that use a methodology of combining deep learning (DL), fully convolutional neural networks (FCNNs) and an unmodified U‐Net model with ArcPy libraries and ground truth data to derive a high‐resolution map of gullies in raised marine fine‐grained deposits. Predictors used comprise solely terrain derivatives to broaden the usage of the pre‐trained model to other regions. Our best model achieved a precision score of 0.82 and a recall of 0.75. We find that our pre‐trained model can successfully predict gullies, also in blind‐test areas. The model performs better in regions with similar geological settings, scoring a length‐weighted overlap of >70% with reference datasets. The novelty of this study is that we demonstrate that the model's applicability for mapping routines increases when we post‐process the predictions by eliminating noise, especially by using the predictions derived from ensembled models. We, therefore, conclude that the pre‐trained models can effectively be used to supplement the geomorphological mapping of marine clay gullies in Norway. The outcome of this research contributes towards mapping the spatial extent and condition of red‐listed landforms in Norway, as well as the development of monitoring systems for future landscape change.
Are financial sanctions truly “smart”? Evidence from the perspective of cross‐border capital flows
Authors: Liu Yang , Lang Wei , Wang Aihua
Published: April 2024

Few studies are found to examine the impact of financial sanctions on cross‐border capital flows. Using a panel data from 48 countries from 2000 to 2019, this paper aims to examine the impact of financial sanctions on the volatility of cross‐border capital flows. We employ difference‐in‐differences (DID) and spatial DID (SDID) models, showing the result that financial sanctions lead to an exacerbation of the volatility of cross‐border capital inflows and outflows in the targeted country, with the channel of negative impact on the financial sector in the targeted country. The subsample regressions indicate heterogeneous impacts of financial sanctions depending on economic structure and capital account openness. Additionally, the result of the SDID model shows that financial sanctions cause cross‐border transmission of financial risks, and that the spatial spillover effect of financial sanctions will also have negative economic impacts on other countries in addition to the target country. The significance of this study lies in emphasizing that international financial sanctions affect the economy of target countries through cross‐border capital flows. Meanwhile, we confirm that financial sanctions pose a certain threat to global financial stability.
Selling Leisure: Cultural Change and the Evolution of Advertising
Authors: Hultsman John , Harper William
Published: April 2024

Starting with the notion that advertisements provide a valuable perspective and commentary on the culture that produces and consumes them, we compare the use of leisure‐related themes in print ads from the first and last few decades of the twentieth century. Our working hypothesis is that the ways these themes are used reflect the broader cultural outlook on what constitutes leisure. What we find in comparing ads from the beginning and end of the century suggests that we moderns seem to have lost much of what comprises meaningful leisure–a serene, experiential, and integrated way of being–to a frenetic, anecdotal, and disjointed lifestyle that does little to nurture the human in us.
Skepticism about Selected Paranormal Events and Why Some Believe We Are Not Alone
Authors: Hanshaw Larry G.
Published: April 2024

There is no evidence established so far that proves conclusively that humanity either is or is not alone in the universe. An estimated 548 to 701 unexplained cases, that could potentially say otherwise, either have not been investigated at all or have been frivolously dismissed, even though explanations based on natural phenomena have not easily explained important case‐by‐case details. All unexplained cases do not necessarily mean either the existence of an alien being or an alien technology connection. Such cases will need to be decided with more research. This is especially needed since a review of two key government investigations by qualified experts and scientists found: (1) the presence of seriously misleading explanations in key reports, (2) flaws in the scientific methodology of reports such as the Condon Report and Project Blue Book, and (3) predispositional thinking on the part of scientists charged with finding the truth. Such findings create uncertainty about the trustworthiness of those reports as the final word on UFOs and alien‐related phenomena. In spite of existing skepticism, this paper illustrates why the truth must be built on trustworthy information and not resolved with either the use of theory‐dependent hypotheses or the use of faulty definitions guiding any supposedly scientific effort. The search for extraterrestrial life has been pursued on the premise that if such life exists, it must either respond to radio signals or it must be detectable by tests or processes developed for such purposes. This search has created the hope that an acceptable answer will be found, even as movies and books on the fringes of science say otherwise. Skepticism, therefore, has apparently grown from the fertile soil of both genuine scientific pursuits and fantasy entertainment. This paper underscores the need for testable and reliable evidence needed to answer the question of whether or not humanity is alone in the universe.
The Simplification of NFL Team Logos: Television and Graphic Design in the 1950s and 1960
Authors: Mullen Lawrence , Ferri Anthony , Borchard Gregory A.
Published: April 2024

Abstract

This study analyzes National Football League team logos and the way they have changed. Focusing on the relationship between television and logo design, it explores the influence of the medium on design, beginning in the 1950s, as influences in graphic design during this time apparently caused changes in logo design. This paper argues that the technical requirements of television and changes in aesthetic philosophy in the field of graphic design contributed to the makeover of football team logos during this era, with visual data corroborating our assumptions.
The Fourth Reich: Ishmael's Reed's The Terrible Twos and the Triumph of Celebrity Culture
Authors: Pérez Vincent
Published: April 2024

Donald Trump's rise to the U.S. presidency was foretold in many 20th century works of dystopian fiction as well as Western Marxist scholarship written during and after the Nazi era. The most prescient modern dystopian novel, Ishmael Reed's The Terrible Twos (1982), has much in common thematically with earlier American dystopian fiction while also sharing the bleak vision of U.S. mass (media) culture postulated by Frankfurt School theorists such as Theodor Adorno and Max Horkheimer in The Dialectic of Enlightenment (1947). But Reed's novel diverges dramatically from these earlier writings, whether fictive or scholarly, through its farcical and absurdist postmodernist depiction of a future neo‐fascist America in which popular (media) culture reigns triumphant even as spaces of resistance take shape amid the seemingly overdetermined ideological and cultural landscape.
Order on the Net!! Juror Misconduct Via Social Media
Authors: Judge Reginia
Published: April 2024

The Internet is a powerful communication tool that also provides the ability to research a variety of topics. Unfortunately, Internet use threatens a defendant's right to a fair trial when jurors use it to investigate the cases they are hearing and post information about them online. Empaneled jurors are told not to converse with each other or anyone else about the trial they are reviewing. They are also told to avoid reading news articles and watching television shows that discuss the case they are deciding. Our high‐tech world also mandates, however, that they are cautioned against Internet use as well. Jurors are now warned against emailing, tweeting or posting info on social networks like Facebook or Twitter during the course of a trial. This article examines juror misconduct via the use of the Internet and judicial strategies for preventing it.