bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Picking the Optimal Variant to Target in Updated COVID-19 Vaccines Is Tricky
Authors: Rubin Rita
Published: July 2024

This Medical News story discusses the makeup of this fall’s updated COVID-19 vaccines.
Use of Medications for Opioid Use Disorder and Child Welfare Outcomes
Authors: Muhar Alexandra , McNeer Elizabeth , Presley Lauren D. , Morad Anna , Loch Sarah F. , Dupont William D. , Patrick Stephen W.
Published: July 2024

This cohort study investigates whether use of medications for opioid use disorder in pregnancy is associated with higher rates of infants discharge home with their mothers after birth.
Screen Media Use and Mental Health of Children and Adolescents
Authors: Schmidt-Persson Jesper , Rasmussen Martin Gillies Banke , Sørensen Sarah Overgaard , Mortensen Sofie Rath , Olesen Line Grønholt , Brage Søren , Kristensen Peter Lund , Bilenberg Niels , Grøntved Anders
Published: July 2024

Importance

Excessive screen media use has been associated with poorer mental health among children and adolescents in several observational studies. However, experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis is lacking.

Objective

To investigate the effects of a 2-week screen media reduction intervention on children’s and adolescents’ mental health.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prespecified secondary analysis of a cluster randomized clinical trial with a 2-week follow-up included 89 families (with 181 children and adolescents) from 10 Danish municipalities in the region of Southern Denmark. All study procedures were carried out in the home of the participants. Enrollment began on June 6, 2019, and ended on March 30, 2021. This analysis was conducted between January 1 and November 30, 2023.

Intervention

Families were randomly allocated to a screen media reduction group or a control group. The 2-week screen media reduction intervention was designed to ensure a high level of compliance to the reduction in leisure-time screen media use. Participants allocated to the intervention group had to reduce their leisure-time screen media use to 3 hours per week or less per person and hand over smartphones and tablets.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was the between-group mean difference in change in total behavioral difficulties, measured by the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire at 2-week follow-up. Results were estimated using mixed-effects tobit regression models. Analyses were carried out as both intention to treat and complete case.

Results

In the sample of 89 families including 181 children and adolescents (intervention group [45 families]: 86 children; mean [SD] age, 8.6 [2.7] years; 42 girls [49%]; control group [44 families]: 95 children; mean [SD] age, 9.5 [2.5] years; 57 girls [60%]), there was a statistically significant between-group mean difference in the total difficulties score, favoring the screen media reduction intervention (−1.67; 95% CI, −2.68 to −0.67; Cohen d, 0.53). The greatest improvements were observed for internalizing symptoms (emotional symptoms and peer problems; between-group mean difference, −1.03; 95% CI, −1.76 to −0.29) and prosocial behavior (between-group mean difference, 0.84; 95% CI, 0.39-1.30).

Conclusions and Relevance

This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial found that a short-term reduction in leisure-time screen media use within families positively affected psychological symptoms of children and adolescents, particularly by mitigating internalizing behavioral issues and enhancing prosocial behavior. More research is needed to confirm whether these effects are sustainable in the long term.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04098913
Mediterranean Diet and Cardiometabolic Biomarkers in Children and Adolescents
Authors: López-Gil José Francisco , García-Hermoso Antonio , Martínez-González Miguel Ángel , Rodríguez-Artalejo Fernando
Published: July 2024

Importance

No prior systematic review and meta-analysis has specifically verified the association of Mediterranean diet (MedDiet)–based interventions with biomarkers of cardiometabolic health in children and adolescents.

Objective

To review and analyze the randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that assessed the effects of MedDiet-based interventions on biomarkers of cardiometabolic health among children and adolescents.

Data Sources

Four electronic databases were searched (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus) from database inception to April 25, 2024.

Study Selection

Only RCTs investigating the effect of interventions promoting the MedDiet on cardiometabolic biomarkers (ie, systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], triglycerides [TGs], total cholesterol [TC], high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-C], low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-C], glucose, insulin, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance [HOMA-IR]) among children and adolescents (aged ≤18 years) were included.

Data Extraction and Synthesis

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Data were extracted from the studies by 2 independent reviewers. Results across studies were summarized using random-effects meta-analysis.

Main Outcome and Measures

The effect size of each trial was computed by unstandardized mean differences (MDs) of changes in biomarker levels (ie, SBP, DBP, TGs, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR) between the intervention and the control groups. The quality of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluations approach.

Results

Nine RCTs were included (mean study duration, 17 weeks; range, 8-40 weeks). These studies involved 577 participants (mean age, 11 years [range, 3-18 years]; 344 girls [59.6%]). Compared with the control group, the MedDiet-based interventions showed a significant association with reductions in SBP (mean difference, −4.75 mm Hg; 95% CI, −8.97 to −0.52 mm Hg), TGs (mean difference, −16.42 mg/dL; 95% CI, −27.57 to −5.27 mg/dL), TC (mean difference, −9.06 mg/dL; 95% CI, −15.65 to −2.48 mg/dL), and LDL-C (mean difference, −10.48 mg/dL; 95% CI, −17.77 to −3.19 mg/dL) and increases in HDL-C (mean difference, 2.24 mg/dL; 95% CI, 0.34-4.14 mg/dL). No significant associations were observed with the other biomarkers studied (ie, DBP, glucose, insulin, and HOMA-IR).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that MedDiet-based interventions may be useful tools to optimize cardiometabolic health among children and adolescents.
Use of the model statement in determining the veracity of opinions
Authors: Mann Samantha , Vrij Aldert , Deeb Haneen
Published: July 2024

We examined the efficacy of a Model Statement to detect opinion lies. A total of 93 participants discussed their opinion about the recent strikes on two occasions, 1 week apart. In one interview they told the truth and in the other interview they lied. Each interview consisted of two phases. In Phase 1 they discussed their alleged opinion (truth or lie as appropriate). They then either listened to a Model Statement (a detailed account of someone discussing an opinion about a topic unrelated to strike actions) and expressed their opinion again in Phase 2 (Model Statement present condition) or they discussed their opinion again without listening to a Model Statement (Model Statement absent condition). The verbal cues examined were pro‐opinion arguments, anti‐opinion arguments, plausibility, immediacy, directness, clarity, and predictability. The truthful statements sounded more plausible in Phases 1 and 2 than the deceptive statements, providing further evidence that plausibility is a strong veracity indicator. The truthful statements included more pro‐arguments and sounded more immediate and direct than the deceptive statements, but only in Phase 2. The Model Statement had no effect. Reasons for the Model Statement null‐effect are discussed.
What Chevron doctrine's rejection by Supreme Court means
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

In the substance use disorder (SUD) field, one regulation in particular stands out in reference to last month's ruling by the Supreme Court to cut back on federal agencies' power to interpret laws. It's Charitable Choice, a law developed by the administration of former President George W. Bush that said a person could get a voucher supported by federal dollars to go to, for example, a church, to have, for example, prayer solve their addiction. It's a perfect example of what could happen when the full weight of the Supreme Court's ruling on the Chevron doctrine is brought to bear.
More than Narcan: Other OD rescue medications may be better
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2024

The problem with naloxone — trade name Narcan — is that it isn't strong enough in an era of fentanyl to rescue opioid overdose (OD) victims. This isn't new news, it's been publicized in peer‐reviewed journals (see ADAW https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/adaw.34062), but it's particularly important now. States have used up all their money for overdose reversal medications on Narcan. And according to experts, not only is it not strong enough, but this policy is going to cause deaths. Last week, as reported in the Buffalo News, a coalition of addiction recovery organizations from across New York state has asked Gov. Kathy Hochul and state Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli to get rid of the “purchasing monopoly” on the state's availability of the anti‐opioid overdose Narcan.
Biofabrication and Monitoring of a 3D Printed Skin Model for Melanoma
Authors: Vázquez‐Aristizabal Paula , Henriksen‐Lacey Malou , García‐Astrain Clara , Jimenez de Aberasturi Dorleta , Langer Judith , Epelde Claudia , Litti Lucio , Liz‐Marzán Luis M. , Izeta Ander
Published: July 2024

There is an unmet need for in vitro cancer models that emulate the complexity of human tissues. 3D‐printed solid tumor micromodels based on decellularized extracellular matrices (dECMs) recreate the biomolecule‐rich matrix of native tissue. Herein a 3D in vitro metastatic melanoma model that is amenable for drug screening purposes and recapitulates features of both the tumor and the skin microenvironment is described. Epidermal, basement membrane, and dermal biocompatible inks are prepared by means of combined chemical, mechanical, and enzymatic processes. Bioink printability is confirmed by rheological assessment and bioprinting, and bioinks are subsequently combined with melanoma cells and dermal fibroblasts to build complex 3D melanoma models. Cells are tracked by confocal microscopy and surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) mapping. Printed dECMs and cell tracking allow modeling of the initial steps of metastatic disease, and may be used to better understand melanoma cell behavior and response to drugs.
Ambient Moisture‐Driven Self‐Powered Iontophoresis Patch for Enhanced Transdermal Drug Delivery
Authors: Ge Zhenyou , Guo Wenshang , Tao Ye , Li Shixin , Li Xiao , Liu Weiyu , Meng Xiangyu , Yang Ruizhe , Xue Rui , Ren Yukun
Published: July 2024

Iontophoretic transdermal drug delivery (TDD) devices are known to enhance the transdermal transport of drugs. However, conventional transdermal iontophoretic devices require external power sources, wired connections, or mechanical parts, which reduce the comfort level for patients during extended use. In this work, a self‐powered, wearable transdermal iontophoretic patch (TIP) is proposed by harvesting ambient humidity for energy generation, enabling controlled TDD. This patch primarily uses moist‐electric generators (MEGs) as its power source, thus obviating the need for complex power management modules and mechanical components. A single MEG unit can produce an open‐circuit voltage of 0.80 V and a short‐circuit current of 11.65 µA under the condition of 80% relative humidity. Amplification of the electrical output is feasible by connecting multiple generator units in series and parallel, facilitating the powering of certain commercial electronic devices. Subsequently, the MEG array is integrated with the TDD circuit to create the wearable TIP. After 20 min of application, the depth of drug penetration through the skin is observed to increase threefold. The effective promotion effect of TIP on the transdermal delivery of ionized drugs is corroborated by simulations and experiments. This wearable TIP offers a simple, noninvasive solution for TDD.
Internet of Things and Machine Learning Enabled Smart e‐Textile with Exceptional Breathability for Point‐of‐Care Diagnostics
Authors: Mondal Bidya , Saini Dalip , Mishra Hari Krishna , Mandal Dipankar
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the convergence of smart electronic textile (e‐textile) and digital technology has emerged as a transformative shift in healthcare, offering innovative solutions for point‐of‐care diagnostics. However, the development of textile electronics with exceptional functionality and comfort still remains challenging. Here, all‐electrospun piezoelectric smart e‐textile empowered is reported by Internet of Things (IoT) and machine learning for advanced point‐of‐care diagnostics. The resulting e‐textile exhibits exceptional breathability (b ≈ 4.13 kg m−2 d−1), flexibility, water‐resistive properties (water contact angle ≈137°), and mechano‐sensitivity of 1.5 V N−1 due to its mechanical‐to‐electrical energy conversion abilities. It can efficiently monitor different critical biomedical healthcare signals, such as, arterial pulse and respiration rate. Importantly, the e‐textile sensor demonstrates remarkable attributes, generating an open circuit voltage of 10.5 V, a short circuit current of 7.7 µA, and power density of 4.2 µW cm−2. Moreover, the e‐textile provides real‐time, non‐invasive monitoring of human physiological movements through IoT. It is worth highlighting that the machine learning showcases an impressive 96% of accuracy in detecting respiratory signals, representing a significant accomplishment. Thus, this e‐textile has enormous potential in remote patient monitoring and early disease detection, aiming to reduce healthcare costs, enhance patient outcomes, and improve the overall quality of medical care.
Palladium‐Catalyzed Bicyclization of 1‐(2,2‐Dibromovinyl)‐2‐Alkenylbenzene with Allenyl Malonates
Authors: Zhou Ping‐Xin , Liu Yang , Wang Cui‐Tian , Li Kexin , Ren Feng , Tan Xinqiang , Liang Yong‐Min
Published: July 2024

Palladium‐catalyzed bicyclization of 1‐(2,2‐dibromovinyl)‐2‐alkenylbenzene with allenyl malonates has been achieved to afford a series of bicyclic compounds. The protocol involves intermolecular carbopalladation of allenes/cyclization/internal Heck reaction. Three C−C bonds and two rings are formed in one step.
K3PO4–Mediated Synthesis of Chromeno–[3,4‐c]isoxazole from 3–Nitro–2H–chromene and α–Chloro Aldehyde via Michael Addition/C−Cl Bond Cleavage/Deformylation as Key Fragmentation Sequences
Authors: Pratap Aniruddh , Shukla Pushpendra Mani , Giri Santanab , Maji Biswajit
Published: July 2024

Here we report a transition metal– and oxidant–free annulation cascade method for the synthesis of chromeno–isoxazoles. The annulation reaction involves easily accessible starting materials, 3‐nitro‐2H‐chromene and α‐chloro aldehyde, yielding the structurally intriguing framework, chromeno[3,4‐c]isoxazoles employed by tripotassium phosphate as a base. The isoxazole ring construction over the 2H–chromene unit is believed to occur via a series of multiple reaction sequences. Here, the enolate generation/Michael addition/C−Cl bond cleavage/oxy–anionic addition to reactive tethered‐aldehyde/deformylation via retro–C−C and N−O bond cleavages are the most possible sequences which furnish the desired end–product in good chemical yields. The multiple reaction sequences occur in one‐pot at mild conditions, supported by experimental results and a few control experiments including DFT studies. This process exhibits a broad substrates scope illustrating good functional group compatibility towards both the nitrochromenes and aldehydes, and thus prove to be a general and efficient protocol for the synthesis of chromeno[3,4–c]isoxazoles. Overall, the use of nitrochromene as the limiting reagent, noteworthy functional group tolerance, scalability including great applications like chiral pool strategy towards the synthesis of enantioenriched chromeno‐isoxazole are the additional features.
A Facile Approach to Producing Liposomal J‐Aggregates of Indocyanine Green with Diagnostic and Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Stern Noah B , Shrestha Binita , Porter Tyrone
Published: July 2024

Liposomal J‐Aggregates of Indocyanine Green (L‐JA) can serve as a biocompatible and biodegradable nanoparticle for photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and photothermal therapy (PTT). When compared to monomeric indocyanine green (IcG), L‐JA is characterized by longer circulation, improved photostability, elevated absorption at longer wavelengths, and increased photoacoustic signal generation. However, the documented methods for the production of L‐JA vary widely. An approach to efficiently form IcG J‐aggregates (IcG‐JA) directly in liposomes at elevated temperatures is developed. Aggregating within fully formed liposomes ensures particle uniformity and allows for control of J‐aggregate size. L‐JA has unique properties compared to IcG. L‐JA provides significant contrast enhancement in photoacoustic images for up to 24 h after injection, while IcG and unencapsulated IcG‐JA are cleared within an hour. L‐JA allows for more accurate photoacoustic‐based blood oxygen saturation (sO2) estimation and particle tracking compared to IcG. Furthermore, photothermal heating of L‐JA with an 852 nm laser is demonstrated to be more effective at lower laser powers than conventional 808 nm lasers for the first time. The presented technique offers an avenue for formulating a multi‐faceted contrast agent for photoacoustic imaging and photothermal therapy that offers significant advantages over other conventional agents.
Constructing CoP/Ni2P Heterostructure Confined Ru Sub‐Nanoclusters for Enhanced Water Splitting in Wide pH Conditions
Authors: Zhang Huimin , Liu Wenhao , Li Zhenhao , Qiao Liang , Chi Kebin , Guo Xiaoyan , Cao Dong , Cheng Daojian
Published: July 2024

Developing efficient electrocatalysts for water splitting is of great significance for realizing sustainable energy conversion. In this work, Ru sub‐nanoclusters anchored on cobalt‐nickel bimetallic phosphides (Ru‐CoP/Ni2P) are constructed by an interfacial confinement strategy. Remarkably, Ru‐CoP/Ni2P with low noble metal loading (33.1 µg cm−2) shows superior activity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in all pH values, whose turnover frequency (TOF) is 8.7, 15.3, and 124.7 times higher than that of Pt/C in acidic, alkaline, and neutral conditions, respectively. Meanwhile, it only requires the overpotential of 171 mV@10 mA cm−2 for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and corresponding TOF is 20.3 times higher than that of RuO2. More importantly, the Ru‐CoP/Ni2P||Ru‐CoP/Ni2P displays superior mass activity of 4017 mA mgnoble metal−1 at 2.0 V in flowing alkaline water electrolyzer, which is 105.1 times higher than that of Pt/C||IrO2. In situ Raman spectroscopy demonstrates that the Ru sites in Ru‐CoP/Ni2P play a key role for water splitting and follow the adsorption evolution mechanism toward OER. Further mechanism studies disclose the confined Ru atom contributes to the desorption of H2 during HER and the formation of O‐O bond during OER, leading to fast reaction kinetics. This study emphasizes the importance of interface confinement for enhancing electrocatalytic activity.
Single Molecule Thermodynamic Penalties Applied to Enzymes by Whispering Gallery Mode Biosensors
Authors: Houghton Matthew C. , Toropov Nikita A. , Yu Deshui , Bagby Stefan , Vollmer Frank
Published: July 2024

Optical microcavities, particularly whispering gallery mode (WGM) microcavities enhanced by plasmonic nanorods, are emerging as powerful platforms for single‐molecule sensing. However, the impact of optical forces from the plasmonic near field on analyte molecules is inadequately understood. Using a standard optoplasmonic WGM single‐molecule sensor to monitor two enzymes, both of which undergo an open‐to‐closed‐to‐open conformational transition, the work done on an enzyme by the WGM sensor as atoms of the enzyme move through the electric field gradient of the plasmonic hotspot during conformational change has been quantified. As the work done by the sensor on analyte enzymes can be modulated by varying WGM intensity, the WGM microcavity system can be used to apply free energy penalties to regulate enzyme activity at the single‐molecule level. The findings advance the understanding of optical forces in WGM single‐molecule sensing, potentially leading to the capability to precisely manipulate enzyme activity at the single‐molecule level through tailored optical modulation.
Synchrotron Radiation‐Based In Situ GIWAXS for Metal Halide Perovskite Solution Spin‐Coating Fabrication
Authors: Yang Yingguo , Feng Shanglei , Li Xiaoxi , Qin Minchao , Li Lina , Yang Xuyong , Tai Renzhong
Published: July 2024

Solution‐processable perovskite‐based devices are potentially very interesting because of their relatively cheap fabrication cost but outstanding optoelectronic performance. However, the solution spin‐coating process involves complicated processes, including perovskite solution droplets, nucleation of perovskite, and formation of intermediate perovskite films, resulting in complicated crystallization pathways for perovskite films under annealing. Understanding and therefore controlling the fabrication process of perovskites is difficult. Recently, synchrotron radiation‐based in situ grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS) techniques, which possess the advantages of high collimation, high resolution, and high brightness, have enabled to bridge complicated perovskite structure information with device performance by revealing the real‐time crystallization pathways of perovskites during the spin‐coating process. Herein, the developments of synchrotron radiation‐based in situ GIWAXS are discussed in the study of the crystallization process of perovskites, especially revealing the important crystallization mechanisms of state‐of‐the‐art perovskite optoelectronic devices with high performance. At the end, several potential applications and challenges associated with in situ GIWAXS techniques for perovskite‐based devices are highlighted.
One‐Step Fabrication of 0D Cs4PbBr6 Perovskite with Nonlinear Optical Properties for Ultrafast Pulse Generation
Authors: Jiang Ning , Chu Hongwei , Pan Zhongben , Pan Han , Zhao Shengzhi , Li Dechun
Published: July 2024

Low‐dimensional lead halide perovskites demonstrate remarkable nonlinear optical characteristics attributed to their distinctive physical structures and electronic properties. Nevertheless, the investigation into their nonlinear optical properties remains in its incipient stages. This study addresses this gap by precisely controlling solvent volumes to synthesize both 0D Cs4PbBr6 and Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 perovskites. Remarkably, as saturable absorbers, both pure Cs4PbBr6 and Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites exhibit favorable nonlinear optical properties within the C‐band, showcasing modulation depths of 9.22% and 16.83%, respectively. Moreover, for the first time, Cs4PbBr6 and Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites have been successfully integrated into erbium‐doped fiber lasers to realize the mode‐locking operations. The utilization of the Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites as a saturable absorber that enables the generation of conventional soliton mode‐locked laser pulses with a pulse duration of 688 fs, and a repetition frequency of 10.947 MHz at a central wavelength of 1557 nm. Cs4PbBr6 is instrumental in generating laser pulses at a frequency of 10.899 MHz, producing pulse widths of 642 fs at the central wavelength of 1531.2 nm and 1.02 ps at the central wavelength of 1565.3 nm, respectively. The findings of this investigation underscore the potential utility of 0D Cs4PbBr6 and Cs4PbBr6/CsPbBr3 composites as promising materials for optical modulation within fiber laser applications.
Otilonium Bromide Exhibits Potent Antifungal Effects by Blocking Ergosterol Plasma Membrane Localization and Triggering Cytotoxic Autophagy in Candida Albicans
Authors: Zhen Cheng , Wang Li , Feng Yanru , Whiteway Malcolm , Hang Sijin , Yu Jinhua , Lu Hui , Jiang Yuanying
Published: July 2024

Candidiasis, which presents a substantial risk to human well‐being, is frequently treated with azoles. However, drug‐drug interactions caused by azoles inhibiting the human CYP3A4 enzyme, together with increasing resistance of Candida species to azoles, represent serious issues with this class of drug, making it imperative to develop innovative antifungal drugs to tackle this growing clinical challenge. A drug repurposing approach is used to examine a library of Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved drugs, ultimately identifying otilonium bromide (OTB) as an exceptionally encouraging antifungal agent. Mechanistically, OTB impairs vesicle‐mediated trafficking by targeting Sec31, thereby impeding the plasma membrane (PM) localization of the ergosterol transporters, such as Sip3. Consequently, OTB obstructs the movement of ergosterol across membranes and triggers cytotoxic autophagy. It is noteworthy that C. albicans encounters challenges in developing resistance to OTB because it is not a substrate for drug transporters. This study opens a new door for antifungal therapy, wherein OTB disrupts ergosterol subcellular distribution and induces cytotoxic autophagy. Additionally, it circumvents the hepatotoxicity associated with azole‐mediated liver enzyme inhibition and avoids export‐mediated drug resistance in C. albicans.
Secondary Order RC Sensor Neuron Circuit for Direct Input Encoding in Spiking Neural Network
Authors: Yang Simiao , Li Deli , Feng Jiuchao , Gong Binchen , Song Qing , Wang Yue , Yang Zhen , Chen Yonghua , Chen Qi , Huang Wei
Published: July 2024

In spiking neural networks (SNNs), artificial sensor neurons are crucial for converting real‐world analog information into encoded spikes. However, existing SNNs face challenges due to the inefficient implementation of input sensor neurons. Here, this study proposes an SNN‐compatible spike mode sensor, designed to directly convert analog current signals into real‐time encoded spikes, feeding the SNN concurrently. The input sensor neuron is realized using a stable neuron circuit employing a threshold switching (TS) memristor and secondary order RC block. This design enables time delay‐free spike firing, operates at low voltage, and offers a wide signal sensing range. Furthermore, this study presents an expression delineating the relationship between the pulse emission properties of the circuit and the parameters of its components, laying the basis for circuit components design and development. Analytical analysis confirms the sensor's efficacy in implementing rate‐based and time‐to‐first spike encoding schemes. Integrating the sensor into SNNs as the input layer for image training and recognition tasks yields an impressive accuracy of 87.58% on the MNIST dataset, showcasing its applicability as a crucial interface between the physical world and the SNN framework.
Estimation on growth parameters of Arius maculatus (Thunberg, 1792) along the Thanlwin River Estuary comparing with the observed length and back‐calculated length of otolith
Authors: Aung Thet Htwe , Htet Hsu Yadanar
Published: July 2024

This study examined the growth patterns of the spotted catfish, Arius maculatus (Thunberg, 1792) in the Thanlwin River Estuary throughout the analysis of standard lengths obtained from observed otolith data and back‐calculated data. Between April 2023 and January 2024, 516 fish ranging in standard lengths from 8.3 to 33 cm were collected. The annual deposition of annuli in otoliths was confirmed using the marginal increment ratio, with ages ranging from 2 to 9 years. The Dahl‐Lea back‐calculation method expanded the length at age data to 2472 records for ages 1–9 years. Growth was characterized using Von Bertalanffy growth curves, revealing the significant differences between the observed data (asymptotic length L∞ = 25.34 cm, growth coefficient K = 0.257 year−1 and growth performance index ϕ′ = 2.02) and the back‐calculated data (L∞ = 36.23 cm, K = 0.087 year−1 and ϕ′ = 2.21). The findings of the study suggested that the back‐calculated otolith data were more dependable for determining growth parameters compared to the observed otolith data. A. maculatus appears to exhibit slow growth characteristics, suggesting that the environmental conditions in the Thanlwin River Estuary may be deficient for this species. The insights gleaned from this research are crucial for guiding and shaping fishery management policies through informed advice and recommendations.
The transcriptome of MHV‐infected RAW264.7 cells offers an alternative model for macrophage innate immunity research
Authors: Liu Yun , Feng Ting‐Ting , Tong Wei , Guo Zhi , Li Xia , Kong Qi , Xiang Zhi‐Guang
Published: July 2024

Background

Macrophages are the primary innate immune cells encountered by the invading coronaviruses, and their abilities to initiate inflammatory reactions, to maintain the immunity homeostasis by differential polarization, to train the innate immune system by epigenic modification have been reported in laboratory animal research.

Methods

In the current in vitro research, murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cell were infected by mouse hepatitis virus, a coronavirus existed in mouse. At 3‐, 6‐, 12‐, 24‐, and 48‐h post infection (hpi.), the attached cells were washed with PBS and harvested in Trizol reagent. Then The harvest is subjected to transcriptome sequencing.

Results

The transcriptome analysis showed the immediate (3 hpi.) up regulation of DEGs related to inflammation, like Il1b and Il6. DEGs related to M2 differential polarization, like Irf4 showed up regulation at 24 hpi., the late term after viral infection. In addition, DEGs related to metabolism and histone modification, like Ezh2 were detected, which might correlate with the trained immunity of macrophages.

Conclusions

The current in vitro viral infection study showed the key innated immunity character of macrophages, which suggested the replacement value of viral infection cells model, to reduce the animal usage in preclinical research.
Assessment of the piroxicam‐incited model of synchronized colitis in T‐cell receptor alpha chain‐deficient mice
Authors: Lange Maximo E. , Bescucci Danisa M. , Boras Valerie F. , Montina Tony , Inglis G. Douglas
Published: July 2024

Background

A multitude of mouse models are utilized to emulate and study intestinal inflammation. T‐cell receptor alpha chain (TCRα)‐deficient mice are used as a model of spontaneous colitis that has similarities with human ulcerative colitis. However, colitis is triggered late in the life of the mouse (age: 4–5 months), and inflammation does not develop at the same time in different mice. A previously conducted study reported that the administration of the drug piroxicam triggered predictable and early colitis in TCRα‐deficient mice at the age of 6–8 weeks. However, a detailed characterization of ensuing inflammation was not provided.

Methods

We conducted an in‐depth examination of piroxicam‐triggered colitis in TCRα‐deficient mice, with emphasis on spatial histopathologic changes and analysis of expression of inflammatory markers. Furthermore, we tested amelioration of colitis with dexamethasone.

Results

We confirmed that piroxicam induced a time‐prescribed colitis and did so in the proximal colon as well as the cecum of TCRα‐deficient mice. Piroxicam administration was observed to induce epithelial hyperplasia, goblet cell loss, and leukocyte infiltration with occasional ulceration. A Swiss roll technique was used to examine the colon and cecum in its entirety. Importantly, we observed that inflammation was multifocal segmental, with areas of tissue damage in between healthy tissue. In addition, we observed variability in the severity of inflammation among replicate animals and treatments, and that the administration of dexamethasone only partially ameliorated inflammation in the proximal colon.

Conclusions

Piroxicam consistently induced multifocal segmental colitis in the proximal colon and cecum, although the degree of inflammation was reduced in the latter. Importantly, spatial variability in inflammation in the large intestine and the inter‐replicate variation in the severity of inflammation must be taken into consideration when utilizing this murine model of synchronized colitis.
Unlocking the Multistage Redox Property of Graphenic Radicals by π‐Extension
Authors: Pu Zhaofangzhou , Xu Zhuofan , Zhang Xin , Guo Yupeng , Sun Zhe
Published: July 2024

Delocalized organic π‐radicals are intrinsically amphoteric redox systems; however, achieving their multistage redox capability presents a challenge. In addition, their instability often hampers their synthesis, isolation, and characterization. Herein, we report the synthesis of a stable π‐extended nanographene π‐radical (NR1) and its isolation in the crystalline form. NR1 exhibits an unusual four‐stage amphoteric redox behavior, as revealed by cyclic voltammetry measurements. The stable charged species, including a cation and a radical dication, are characterized using spectroscopic methods. This study demonstrates that π‐extension could serve as a viable approach to unlock the multistage redox ability of delocalized organic radicals.
Development of a Fluorescent Probe with High Selectivity based on Thiol‐ene Click Nucleophilic Cascade Reactions for Delving into the Action Mechanism of Serotonin in Depression
Authors: Yue Lizhou , Huang Huawei , Lin Weiying
Published: July 2024

The intrinsic correlation between depression and serotonin (5‐HT) is a highly debated topic, with significant implications for the diagnosis, treatment, and advancement of drugs targeting neurological disorders. To address this important question, it is of utmost priority to understand the action mechanism of serotonin in depression through fluorescence imaging studies. However, the development of efficient molecular probes for serotonin is hindered by the lack of responsive sites with high selectivity for serotonin at the present time. Herein, we developed the first highly selective serotonin responsive site, 3‐mercaptopropionate, utilizing thiol‐ene click cascade nucleophilic reactions. The novel responsive site was then employed to construct the powerful molecular probe SJ‐5‐HT for imaging the serotonin level changes in the depression cells and brain tissues. Importantly, the imaging studies reveal that the level of serotonin in patients with depression may not be the primary factor, while the ability of neurons in patients with depression to release serotonin appears to be more critical. Additionally, this serotonin release capability correlates strongly with the levels of mTOR (intracellular mammalian target of rapamycin). These discoveries could offer valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms underpinning depression and furnish mTOR as a novel direction for the advancement of antidepressant therapies.
Enhanced Charge‐Carrier Dynamics and Efficient Photoelectrochemical Nitrate‐to‐Ammonia Conversion on Antimony Sulfide‐Based Photocathodes
Authors: Ren Shijie , Gao Rui‐Ting , Yu Jidong , Yang Yang , Liu Xianhu , Wu Limin , Wang Lei
Published: July 2024

The photoelectrochemical reduction of nitrate to ammonia (PEC NO3RR) has emerged as a promising pathway for facilitating the natural nitrogen cycle. The PEC NO3RR can lower the reduction potential needed for ammonia synthesis through photogenerated voltage, showcasing the significant potential for merging abundant solar energy with sustainable nitrogen fixation. However, it is influenced by the selective photocathodes with poor carrier kinetics, low catalytic selectivity, and ammonia yields. There are few reports on suitable photoelectrodes owning efficient charge transport on PEC NO3RR at low overpotentials. Herein, we rationally constructed the CuSn alloy co‐catalysts on the antimony sulfides with a highly selective PEC ammonia and an ultra‐low onset potential (0.62 VRHE). CuSn/TiO2/Sb2S3 photoelectrodes achieved an ammonia faradic efficiency of 97.82 % at a low applied potential of 0.4 VRHE, and an ammonia yield of 16.96 μmol h−1 cm−2 at 0 VRHE under one sun illumination. Dynamics experiments and theoretical calculations have demonstrated that CuSn/TiO2/Sb2S3 has an enhanced charge separation and transfer efficiency, facilitating photogenerated electrons to participate in PEC NO3RR quickly. Meanwhile, moderate NO2* adsorption on this photocathode optimizes the catalytic activity and increases the NH4+ yield. This work opens an avenue for designing sulfide‐based photocathodes for the efficient route of solar‐to‐ammonia conversion.
Reproducing Reaction Mechanisms with Machine‐Learning Models Trained on a Large‐Scale Mechanistic Dataset
Authors: Joung Joonyoung F. , Fong Mun Hong , Roh Jihye , Tu Zhengkai , Bradshaw John , Coley Connor W.
Published: July 2024

Mechanistic understanding of organic reactions can facilitate reaction development, impurity prediction, and in principle, reaction discovery. While several machine learning models have sought to address the task of predicting reaction products, their extension to predicting reaction mechanisms has been impeded by the lack of a corresponding mechanistic dataset. In this study, we construct such a dataset by imputing intermediates between experimentally reported reactants and products using expert reaction templates and train several machine learning models on the resulting dataset of 5,184,184 elementary steps. We explore the performance and capabilities of these models, focusing on their ability to predict reaction pathways and recapitulate the roles of catalysts and reagents. Additionally, we demonstrate the potential of mechanistic models in predicting impurities, often overlooked by conventional models. We conclude by evaluating the generalizability of mechanistic models to new reaction types, revealing challenges related to dataset diversity, consecutive predictions, and violations of atom conservation.
Modular Synthesis of Heterobenzylic Amines via Carbonyl Azinylative Amination
Authors: Rafaniello Alex A. , Kumar Roopender , Phillips Rachel C. , Gaunt Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Transformations enabling the synthesis of α‐alkyl, α′‐2‐azinyl amines by addition of 2‐heteroaryl‐based nucleophiles to in situ‐generated and non‐activated alkyl‐substituted iminium ions are extremely rare. Approaches involving classical 2‐azinyl organometallics, such as the corresponding Grignard reagents, often fail to produce the desired products. Here, we report an operationally straightforward solution to this problem through the development of a multicomponent coupling process wherein a soft 2‐azinyl indium nucleophile, generated in situ from the corresponding 2‐iodo heteroarene and indium powder, adds to an iminium ion that is also formed directly in the reaction. This modular carbonyl azinylative amination (CAzA) displays a broad scope and only a metal reductant is needed to generate a reactive 2‐azinyl nucleophile. Beyond the addition to iminium ions, the 2‐azinyl addition to polyfluoromethyl ketones forms the corresponding tertiary alcohols. Together, the products of these reactions possess a high degree of functionality, are typically challenging to synthesize by other methods, and contain motifs recognized as privileged in the context of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
Bottom‐up Synthesis of Highly Chiral 1T Molybdenum Disulfide Nanosheets
Authors: Branzi Lorenzo , Fitzsimmons Lucy , Gun'ko Yurii K.
Published: July 2024

Chirality in inorganic nanostructures has recently stimulated the attention of many researchers, both to unravel fundamental questions on the origin of chirality in inorganic and hybrid materials, as well as to introduce novel promising properties that are originated by the symmetry breaking. MoS2 is one of the most investigated among the large family of layered transition metal dichalcogenides. In particular, the metastable metallic 1T−MoS2 phase is of large interest for potential applications. However, due to thermodynamic reasons, the synthesis of 1T−MoS2 phase is quite challenging. Herein, we present the first synthesis of chiral 1T−MoS2 phase which shows remarkably high chiroptical activity with a g‐factor up to 0.01. Chiral 1T−MoS2 was produced using tartaric acid as a chiral ligand to induce symmetry breaking during the material's growth under hydrothermal conditions, leading to the formation of distorted hierarchical nanosheet assemblies exhibiting chiral morphology. Thorough optimization of the synthetic conditions was carried out to maximize chiroptical activity, which is strongly related to the nanostructures’ morphology. Finally, the formation mechanism of the chiral 1T−MoS2 nanosheet assemblies was investigated, focusing on the role of molecular intermediates in the growth of the nanosheets and the transfer of chirality.
A Dibenzo[g,p]chrysene‐Based Organic Semiconductor with Small Exciton Binding Energy via Molecular Aggregation
Authors: Mori Hiroki , Jinnai Seihou , Hosoda Yasushi , Muraoka Azusa , Nakayama Ken‐ichi , Saeki Akinori , Ie Yutaka
Published: July 2024

Exciton binding energy (Eb) is understood as the energy required to dissociate an exciton in free‐charge carriers, and is known to be an important parameter in determining the performance of organic opto‐electronic devices. However, the development of a molecular design to achieve a small level of Eb in the solid state continues to lag behind. Here, to investigate the relationship between aggregation and Eb, star‐shaped π‐conjugated compounds DBC‐RD and TPE‐RD were developed using dibenzo[g,p]chrysene (DBC) and tetraphenylethylene (TPE). Theoretical calculations and physical measurements in solution showed no apparent differences between DBC‐RD and TPE‐RD, indicating that these molecules possess similar properties on a single‐molecule level. By contrast, pristine films incorporating these molecules showed significantly different levels of electron affinity, ionization potential, and optical gap. Also, DBC‐RD had a smaller Eb value of 0.24 eV compared with that of TPE‐RD (0.42 eV). However, these molecules showed similar Eb values under dispersed conditions, which suggested that the decreased Eb of DBC‐RD in pristine film is induced by molecular aggregation. By comparison with TPE‐RD, DBC‐RD showed superior performances in single‐component organic solar cells and organic photocatalysts. These results indicate that a molecular design suitable for aggregation is important to decrease the Eb in films.
Analysis of 5‐Methyl Cytosine Containing Oligomers Via Reduction of Tetracationic Di‐Viologen Derivatives Using Square Wave Voltammetry
Authors: Preston Victoria G. , Hvastkovs Eli G.
Published: July 2024

5‐Methylcytosine (5 mC) is an epigenetic modification that plays several important roles ranging from development to disease progression. Local cytosine methylation is still detected and quantified utilizing bisulfite cytosine to uracil conversion and methylated base counting following PCR. Electrochemical approaches may offer more rapid means to provide this output. Here, small oligomeric DNA sequences from the CD8+ T‐cell reporter gene featuring between 0 and 4 5 mC sites were immobilized on Au electrodes via self‐assembly. 5 mC content was assayed via square wave voltametric reduction of a di‐viologen molecule (C12H25V2+C6H12V2+C12H25, V2+=4,4’‐bipyridyl or viologen) bound to the DNA. 5 mC presence induced subtle structural changes in the oligomers, which could be detected monitoring di‐viologen reduction current changes at −0.39 V vs. SCE after exposure to higher ionic strength conditions. Solution phase CD spectroscopy was employed to validate the DNA structural changes occurring at the electrode surface and provide insight into the structural perturbations resulting from 5 mC presence. Overall, this method provides a relatively simple electrochemical 5 mC monitoring approach for small gene sequences based on helical structure.
A new and the first metal organic framework for the synthesis of aryl ketones via carbonyl‐Heck cross‐coupling reaction of aryl halides and aldehydes
Authors: Sobhani Sara , Rouzifar Majid , Farrokhi Alireza , Sansano José Miguel
Published: July 2024

A new MOF (Co‐TIST) was synthesized from 2,4,6‐tris (imidazol‐1‐yl)‐1,3,5‐s‐triazine (TIST) and cobalt nitrate. TIST was prepared from the reaction of cyanuric chloride and imidazole and used as a ligand for the formation of MOF. After characterization of Co‐TIST by different methods, we have investigated the carbonyl‐Heck cross‐coupling reaction of aldehydes with aryl halides in the presence of Co‐TIST as a new heterogeneous catalyst. Various ketones were obtained in good to high yields by this method. The reactions did not require high temperature, additives, or large amounts of the catalyst. The catalyst was recycled in five consecutive runs with unimportant decrease in its catalytic activity. Notably, this is the first report of using a MOF for the carbonyl‐Heck cross‐coupling reaction of aryl halides and aldehydes.
The influence of water released from particles in epoxy‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Waniek Tassilo , Omar Hassan , Szymoniak Paulina , Silbernagl Dorothee , Sturm Heinz
Published: July 2024

Recent studies have hypothesized that the reinforcing effects of boehmite nanoparticles (BNPs) in polymer nanocomposites (PNCs) are partly related to the particles themselves and partly to the water released from the BNP during curing. In this work, PNCs made from dried BNP (dBNP) with concentrations up to 15 wt% are investigated to differentiate particle and water related effects. The observed trend of the storage modulus in dynamic mechanical thermal analysis measurements was found to be independent of the drying procedure. Stiffness maps from intermodulation atomic force microscopy showed that dBNP leads to a stiffening of the interphase surrounding the particles compared with the unaffected epoxy matrix, while a softer interphase was reported for PNCs with as received BNP. A slight decrease in the glass transition temperature was observed by broadband dielectric spectroscopy related to a lowered crosslink density due to the particles. A significantly higher decrease was reported for PNCs with BNP, attributed to water influencing the curing process. In conclusion, the stiffening of PNC with BNP is related to the particles themselves, while the release of water causes the formation of a soft interphase in the vicinity of the particles and a significant decrease in crosslink density.
Anomalous Tunneling Magnetoresistance Oscillation and Electrically Tunable Tunneling Anisotropic Magnetoresistance in Few‐Layer CrPS4
Authors: Fu ZhuangEn , Huang Hong‐Fei , Samarawickrama Piumi , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Wang Wenyong , Ackerman John , Zang Jiadong , Yu Jie‐Xiang , Tian Jifa
Published: July 2024

2D van der Waals (vdW) magnets with layer‐dependent magnetic states and/or diverse magnetic interactions and anisotropies have attracted extensive research interest. Despite the advances, a notable challenge persists in effectively manipulating the tunneling anisotropic magnetoresistance (TAMR) of 2D vdW magnet‐based magnetic tunnel junctions (MTJs). Here, this study reports the novel and anomalous tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) oscillations and pioneering demonstration of bias and gate voltage controllable TAMR in 2D vdW MTJs, utilizing few‐layer CrPS4. This material, inherently an antiferromagnet, transitions to a canted magnetic order upon application of external magnetic fields. Through TMR measurements, this work unveils the novel layer‐dependent oscillations in the tunneling resistance for few‐layer CrPS4 devices under both out‐of‐plane and in‐plane magnetic fields, with a pronounced controllability via gate voltage. Intriguingly, this study demonstrates that both the polarity and magnitude of TAMR in CrPS4 can be effectively tuned through either a bias or gate voltage. The mechanism behind this electrically tunable TAMR is further elucidated through first‐principles calculations. The implications of the findings are far‐reaching, providing new insights into 2D magnetism and opening avenues for the development of innovative spintronic devices based on 2D vdW magnets.