bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stealth Effect of Red Shell in Laqueus rubellus (Brachiopoda, Terebratulida) on the Sea Bottom: An Evolutionary Insight into the Prey-Predator Interaction
Authors: Shiino Yuta , Kitazawa Kota
Published: March 2012

The selective advantage of empire red coloration in the shell of Laqueus rubellus (a terebratulid brachiopod) was examined in terms of prey-predator interactions. The study was based on a comparison of benthic suspension feeders living at a depth of about 130 m in Suruga Bay, Japan, with special reference to their visibility under visible and near-infrared light conditions. Almost all species exhibited red coloration under visible light, while only the shell of Laqueus was dark under infrared light, similar to rocks and bioclasts. Given the functional eyes of macropredators such as fishes and coleoids, which are specialized to detect light in the blue-to-green visible spectrum, and even the long-wavelength photoreceptors of malacosteids, Laqueus should avoid both visible and infrared detection by predators inhabiting the sublittoral bottom zone. This fact suggests that terebratulids have evolved the ability to remain essentially invisible even as the optic detection abilities of predators have improved. The present hypothesis leads to the possibility that the appearance of marine organisms is associated with the passive defensive strategy, making possible to provide a lower predation risk.
Evaluation of Efficacy, Safety, and Cognitive Profile of Amisulpride Per Se and Its Comparison with Olanzapine in Newly Diagnosed Schizophrenic Patients in an 8-Week, Double-Blind, Single-Centre, Prospective Clinical Trial
Authors: Pawar Ganesh R. , Phadnis P. , Paliwal A.
Published: March 2012

Background. Impaired cognitive functions in schizophrenia are the major deciding factors in response to treatment. Conventional antipsychotics have minimal impact on cognitive dysfunctions and are associated with adverse effects. Atypical antipsychotics have shown promise in treatment of cognitive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Efforts are underway to find out the best drug amongst atypical antipsychotics.Objective. To compare efficacy, safety, and cognitive profile of amisulpride and olanzapine in the treatment of acute psychotic exacerbations of schizophrenia.Method. A prospective, randomized, double-blind, single-center, 8-week clinical trial we used.Subjects and Treatments. Seventy four patients were treated for two months with either amisulpride (400–800 mg/d) or olanzapine (10–20 mg/d).Statistics. Mann WhitneyUtest we used for independent samples with taken as significant.Results. Brief psychiatric rating scale (BPRS) was used as a primary measure of efficacy. Other measures of efficacy and safety were also evaluated. Both amisulpride and olanzapine groups showed equivalent improvement in psychotic symptoms on BPRS scale. Less than five percent of patients suffered adverse effects only to withdraw from the study. Olanzapine group showed statistically significant () weight gain compared with amisulpride group. Amisulpride group showed significant improvement () in various cognitive parameters as compared to olanzapine group.
Liquid Chromatographic Method for the Quantification of Antipsychotic Agent Iloperidone in Pharmaceutical Formulation
Authors: Chhalotiya Usmangani K. , Bhatt Kashyap K. , Shah Dimal A. , Patel Jigar R.
Published: March 2012

Liquid chromatographic method for the quantitative determination of iloperidone in the pharmaceutical dosage form was developed. A reversed phase column with mobile phase containing 0.02 M potassium dihydrogen phosphate: methanol: acetonitrile (55 : 25 : 20, v/v/v, pH 4 adjusted with phosphoric acid) was used. The flow rate was 1.0 mL min−1, and effluents were monitored at 230 nm. The retention time of iloperidone was 11.6 min. Iloperidone stock solutions were subjected to acid and alkali hydrolysis, chemical oxidation, and dry heat degradation. The degraded product peaks were well resolved from the pure drug peak with significant difference in their retention time values. Stressed samples were assayed using developed LC method. The proposed method was validated with respect to linearity, accuracy, precision, and robustness. The method was successfully applied to the estimation of iloperidone in tablet dosage forms.
Strategies for Mitigating Climate Change Through Energy Efficiency: the RFF Haiku Electricity Market Model
Authors: Paul Anthony , Woerman Matt , Palmer Karen
Published: March 2012

This analysis uses the RFF Haiku electricity market model to analyze several of the policies under consideration for EMF-25: an energy (electricity) tax, a carbon tax, a subsidy to energy efficiency and a combination of the last two policies. Reported results include the effects of these policies on electricity demand, electricity price, and emissions of CO2 from the electricity sector. This analysis also reports a partial equilibrium measure of the net economic benefits of each policy that accounts for the economic benefits of CO2 emissions reductions and the electricity market economic surplus costs of each of the policies. The findings suggest that policies that increase electricity prices can actually increase total economic surplus in electricity markets in some parts of the country. This result hinges on electricity market regulation and the price impact of the policy. Given the scale of the policies modeled here and for mid-range estimates of the social costs of CO2 emissions, the carbon tax policy produces the largest increase in net economic surplus. doi: 10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol32-SI1-11
Subsidies, Standards and Energy Efficiency
Authors: Imhof Jan
Published: March 2012

Carbon taxes have been shown to be the most cost-effective instrument for carbon abatement in a second-best world characterized by non-energy-related market failures such as pre-existing taxes. We show, however, that both subsidies for energy efficiency improvements and fuel standards can be good policy instruments in a third-best world in which consumers underinvest in energy service capital. In this framework, subsidies and standards can both reduce emissions and increase welfare. We show additionally that still further emission reductions are attainable by combining these instruments with a CO2 tax. Two versions of a CGE model for Switzerland are used to compare five policy proposals. First, we examine the transitional impacts of the different policies using the dynamic CEPE model. The same policies are then implemented within a static representation of the model, which includes a bottom-up representation of light-duty vehicles and allows a more detailed examination of the role of fuel standards and subsidies for energy-efficient vehicles. doi: 10.5547/ISSN0195-6574-EJ-Vol32-SI1-8
Permeation of gasoline through DI pipe gaskets in water mains
Authors: Cheng Chu‐Lin , Gaunt James A. , Mao Feng , Ong Say Kee
Published: March 2012

Sorption tests and pipe‐drum experiments were conducted to study permeation of monoaromatic compounds in gasoline through five polymeric materials used in ductile‐iron (DI) pipe gaskets. Ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM) had the highest sorption of premium gasoline, and fluoroelastomer rubber had the lowest. A comparison of gaskets' heel and bulb portions found that the heel sorbed less gasoline, suggesting greater resistance to permeation. Pipe‐drum experiments showed that the order of breakthrough of benzene‐toluene‐ethylbenzene‐xylene compounds for gaskets exposed to premium gasoline was EPDM > chloroprene rubber ≈ styrene butadiene rubber (SBR) > nitrile rubber (NBR). For DI pipes with SBR gaskets exposed to premium gasoline, the benzene concentration after 8 h of stagnation exceeded the maximum contaminant level (MCL). With typical water flow rates in pipes, the estimated benzene concentration did not exceed the MCL. If pipes are to be installed in gasoline‐saturated groundwater, NBR gaskets are preferred over SBR gaskets.
POU devices in large buildings: Lead removal and water quality
Authors: Deshommes Elise , Nour Shokoufeh , Richer Benoît , Cartier Clément , Prévost Michèle
Published: March 2012

The performance of point‐of‐use (POU) devices to remove dissolved and particulate lead (Pb) and their effect on tap water quality were investigated in a large building under typical usage patterns and during one year. Both forms of Pb were efficiently removed, although materials downstream of the POU devices slightly increased total Pb levels at the tap. No evidence of POU breakthrough was observed following stagnations carried out before sampling. Although measurements of heterotrophic place counts and total and live bacteria on the POU material itself indicated no significant colonization, small but significant increases in viable bacteria at the tap suggest that colonization occurred in the piping and tap downstream of the POU devices in the absence of chlorine residual. This study suggests that these devices are a useful remediation approach to control Pb in large buildings, providing that building maintenance procedures are issued for POU devices.
Interpregnancy Interval After Healthy Live Birth and Subsequent Spontaneous Abortion
Authors: Hu Xuan , Yang Ying , Wang Long , Zhao Chuanyu , Lyu Xinyi , Liu Meiya , Wu Hanbin , Lei Jueming , Li Jiaxin , Yao Mengxin , Ding Yaling , Zhang Hongguang , He Yuan , Wang Yuanyuan , Peng Zuoqi , Shen Haiping , Wang Qiaomei , Zhang Yiping , Yan Donghai , Yin Jieyun , Ma Xu
Published: June 2024

Importance

Many studies have reported that the interpregnancy interval (IPI) is a potential modifiable risk factor for adverse perinatal outcomes. However, the association between IPI after live birth and subsequent spontaneous abortion (SA) is unclear.

Objective

To investigate the association of IPI after a healthy live birth and subsequent SA.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study used data from 180 921 women aged 20 to 49 years who had a single healthy live birth and planned for another pregnancy and who participated in the Chinese National Free Prepregnancy Checkups Project from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2020. Statistical analysis was conducted from June 20 to October 5, 2023.

Exposure

Interpregnancy interval, defined as the interval between the delivery date and conception of the subsequent pregnancy, was categorized as follows: less than 18 months, 18 to 23 months, 24 to 35 months, 36 to 59 months, and 60 months or longer.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was SA. Multivariable-adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were calculated by logistic regression models to examine the association between IPI and the risk of SA. Dose-response associations were evaluated by restricted cubic splines.

Results

The analyses included 180 921 multiparous women (mean [SD] age at current pregnancy, 26.3 [2.8] years); 4380 SA events (2.4% of all participants) were recorded. A J-shaped association between IPI levels and SA was identified. In the fully adjusted model, compared with IPIs of 18 to 23 months, both short (<18 months) and long (≥36 months) IPIs showed an increased risk of SA (IPIs of <18 months: OR, 1.15 [95% CI, 1.04-1.27]; IPIs of 36-59 months: OR, 1.28 [95% CI, 1.15-1.43]; IPIs of ≥60 months: OR, 2.13 [95% CI, 1.78-2.56]). Results of the subgroup analysis by mode of previous delivery were consistent with the main analysis.

Conclusions and Relevance

This cohort study of multiparous women suggests that an IPI of shorter than 18 months or an IPI of 36 months or longer after a healthy live birth was associated with an increased risk of subsequent SA. The findings are valuable to make a rational prepregnancy plan and may facilitate the prevention of SA and improvement in neonatal outcomes.
Disability Competent Care in Pediatric Milestones
Authors: Houtrow Amy J. , Garcia Angela M. , Edinger Jason , Akamagwuna Unoma
Published: June 2024

This cross-sectional study examines how disability competencies are addressed in the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education’s milestones for pediatric specialties.
Probing membrane deformation energy by KcsA potassium channel gating under varied membrane thickness and tension
Authors: Matsuki Yuka , Takashima Masako , Ueki Misuzu , Iwamoto Masayuki , Oiki Shigetoshi
Published: June 2024

This study investigated how membrane thickness and tension modify the gating of KcsA potassium channels when simultaneously varied. The KcsA channel undergoes global conformational changes upon gating: expansion of the cross‐sectional area and longitudinal shortening upon opening. Thus, membranes impose differential effects on the open and closed conformations, such as hydrophobic mismatches. Here, the single‐channel open probability was recorded in the contact bubble bilayer, by which variable thickness membranes under a defined tension were applied. A fully open channel in thin membranes turned to sporadic openings in thick membranes, where the channel responded moderately to tension increase. Quantitative gating analysis prompted the hypothesis that tension augmented the membrane deformation energy when hydrophobic mismatch was enhanced in thick membranes.
The structure of a haemoglobin–nanobody complex reveals human β‐subunit‐specific interactions
Authors: Fox Daniel R. , Samuels Imogen , Binks Sebastian , Grinter Rhys
Published: June 2024

Haemoglobin (Hb) is a vital oxygen carrier in vertebrates. Low blood Hb levels may indicate anaemia or genetic disorders, while its presence in the lower digestive system suggests colon cancer. Detecting and quantifying human Hb is essential for medical diagnostics. A nanobody‐based sandwich‐ELISA test was recently developed utilising llama‐derived nanobodies NbE11 and NbB9. These nanobodies specifically bind to human Hb without cross‐reacting with Hb from other vertebrates. Here, we determine the crystal structure of NbE11 in complex with human Hb. NbE11 binds Hb with high affinity, predominantly binding the β‐Hb subunit. Structural differences between human Hb and other vertebrates at the NbE11 binding interface likely explain the assay's lack of cross‐reactivity, providing insights for developing Hb binding diagnostics.
The immune response behind peptide vaccination in diffuse midline glioma
Authors: Vincent Craig A. , Remeseiro Silvia
Published: June 2024

A first‐in‐human trial demonstrated that a vaccine targeting the histone mutation H3K27M can induce an immune response, in a mutation‐specific manner, in patients with diffuse midline glioma. In a recent study by Boschert et al., the same group now dissects the functional immune response triggered after effective vaccination of one of the patients, who has been in remission for over 3 years. The H3K27M peptide vaccine, named H3‐vac, induces a CD4+ T‐cell‐specific immune response in this patient and expands the repertoire of polyclonal H3K27M‐specific T‐cell receptors. A clonal H3K27M‐reactive B‐cell population was also detected in the patient's cerebrospinal fluid. Importantly, the immune response is induced across various human leukocyte antigen alleleotypes, indicating the potential efficacy of the vaccine in diverse populations. By exploring in detail the immune response linked to this patient's long‐term survival, the authors prove peptide vaccinations as a viable therapeutic approach. This paves the way for personalised therapies harnessing immunogenic T‐ and B‐cell responses against different tumour types.
Flying high for conservation: Opportunities and challenges of operating drones within the oldest National Park in the Alps
Authors: Rossi Christian , Wiesmann Samuel
Published: June 2024

Drones have emerged as an essential tool in various conservation applications. Despite the great potential, drone use by protected area managers is still scarce or accompanied by scepticism. The ongoing debate revolves around whether drones are fancy gadgets or if they can effectively guide management strategies and align with the overarching goals of protected areas.

Here, we present a practical overview of how novel drone applications contribute to the goals of the oldest national park in the Alps, along with the associated challenges. To do so, we review our seven‐year experience as park employees flying drones within the park and its surroundings.

First, we provide background information receiving limited attention in the existing literature such as our motivation behind a drone purchase, costs and an overview of our flight operations.

Second, we show three examples that demonstrate the potential of drones as a valuable tool in addressing the goals of the park: managing the area, researching natural processes and facilitating communication.

Third, we reflect on operational challenges and provide valuable lessons for addressing the specific challenges of flying drones in an alpine and protected environment.

Practical implication: Our experience supports the benefits of drones for protected area management, but it also highlights the need for certain precautions, increased focus on operational challenges and further research on wildlife‐drone interactions.
Mammal Aging as a Programmed Life Cycle Function – Resolving the Cause and Effect Conundrum
Authors: Goldsmith Theodore C.
Published: June 2024

Because aging and internally determined lifespan vary greatly between similar species it is now widely accepted that aging is an evolved trait, resulting in two classes of evolutionary aging theories: aging is programmed by complex biological mechanisms, and aging is not programmed. As recently as 2002 programmed aging is thought to be theoretically impossible. However, genetics discoveries, results of selective breeding, and other direct evidence strongly support the idea that aging creates an evolutionary advantage and that therefore complex biological mechanisms evolved that control aging in mammals and other multiparous organisms. Like life‐cycle programs that control reproduction, growth, and menopause the aging program can adjust the aging trait during an individual's life to compensate for temporary or local changes in external conditions that alter the optimum lifespan for a particular species population. Genetics discoveries also strongly support the evolvability concept to the effect that sexually reproducing species can evolve design features that increase their ability to evolve, and that aging is one such feature. Genetics discoveries also prove that biological inheritance involves transmission of organism design information in digital form between parent and descendant of any organism. This has major implications for the evolution process.
Mechanistic Characterization of De Novo Generation of Variable Number Tandem Repeats in Circular Plasmids during Site‐Directed Mutagenesis and Optimization for Coding Gene Application
Authors: Hu Ziqi , Lin Guochao , Zhang Mingzhu , Piao Shengwen , Fan Jiankun , Liu Jichao , Liu Peng , Fu Songbin , Sun Wenjing , Li Li , Qiu Xiaohong , Zhang Jinwei , Yang Yu , Zhou Chunshui
Published: June 2024

Site‐directed mutagenesis for creating point mutations, sometimes, gives rise to plasmids carrying variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) locally, which are arbitrarily regarded as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) related artifacts. Here, the alternative end‐joining mechanism is reported rather than PCR artifacts accounts largely for that VNTRs formation and expansion. During generating a point mutation on GPLD1 gene, an unexpected formation of VNTRs employing the 31 bp mutagenesis primers is observed as the repeat unit in the pcDNA3.1‐GPLD1 plasmid. The 31 bp VNTRs are formed in 24.75% of the resulting clones with copy number varied from 2 to 13. All repeat units are aligned with the same orientation as GPLD1 gene. 43.54% of the repeat junctions harbor nucleotide mutations while the rest don't. Their demonstrated short primers spanning the 3′ part of the mutagenesis primers are essential for initial creation of the 2‐copy tandem repeats (TRs) in circular plasmids. The dimerization of mutagenesis primers by the alternative end‐joining in a correct orientation is required for further expansion of the 2‐copy TRs. Lastly, a half‐double priming strategy is established, verified the findings and offered a simple method for VNTRs creation on coding genes in circular plasmids without junction mutations.
Enhancing Osteogenic Differentiation of Dental Pulp Stem Cells with Covalently Bonded All‐Carbon Scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Xin , Zhuang Jiachang , Wei Can , Jin Changlong , Zhu Minmin , Zhao Shouliang , Xie Han
Published: June 2024

The regeneration of bone tissue is a complex process requiring innovative biomaterials with enhanced osteogenic properties to facilitate successful tissue engineering. Herein, a 3D bionic scaffold comprised of covalently bound graphene/carbon nanotube monoliths are present (3DGp/CNTs) exhibiting long‐range ordered porous characteristics, showcasing promising attributes for bone tissue applications. The lightweight, all‐carbon scaffolds not only demonstrate excellent mechanical performance in the hydrated state but also mimic the structural and functional features of the extracellular matrix, actively promoting cellular adhesion, proliferation, and differentiation. Significantly, the osteogenic differentiation of dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) is observed, as evidenced by the upregulation of RUNX2, OSX, BSP, ALP, OPN, and OCN expression. This notable outcome can be attributed to the synergistic effect of 3DGp/CNTs, which create a conducive microenvironment for DPSCs and promote osteogenic differentiation by activating the BMP pathway. This observation elucidates the mechanism through which 3DGp/CNTs induce DPSC mineralization. The combination of these advantages, along with its straightforward and cost‐effective preparation technique, positions 3DGp/CNTs as a promising candidate for dental clinical engineering.
Purine‐Based Ir(III) Photosensitizers for Efficient Treatment of Periodontal Inflammation
Authors: Ding Ruolin , Liu Xin , Zhang Wenjia , Chen Xue , Chen Shanyong , Yu Xiaoqi , Zhao Zhihe , Li Kun
Published: June 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) presents a promising approach for combating periodontitis, an infectious disease triggered by bacteria. However, the hypoxic environment within periodontal pockets poses challenges for PDT efficacy. In this study, novel purine‐based C^N ligands are utilized to develop Ir(III) complexes with enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation capacity for periodontitis treatment. The type I/II PDT performance of Ir(III) is greatly enhanced by the purine ligands, which leads to potent bactericidal and biofilm elimination efficacy. In a rat model of periodontitis, local application of these purine‐based Ir(III) complexes effectively achieves antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory effects while promoting tissue repair under clinical luminaire exposure. This PDT strategy utilizing purine‐based Ir(III) complexes circumvents the need for antibiotics and surgical intervention, emerging as a promising, non‐invasive approach for managing periodontitis.
2D Catalytic Niobium Carbide MXenzyme for Ameliorating Noise‐Induced Hearing Loss
Authors: Xu Baoying , Jiang Qingjun , Huang Yuqi , Xu Ke , Feng Wei , Yu Dehong , Chen Yu
Published: June 2024

Noise‐induced hearing loss (NIHL), a prevalent sensory disability affecting a majority of the global population, is dominantly induced by mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress, but no effective therapeutic strategy is available. Herein, the potential of a 2D catalytic niobium carbide (Nb2C) MXenzyme is investigated as a nanomedicine for treating NIHL by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). The findings reveal that 2D Nb2C MXenzyme effectively eliminates free radicals, resulting in a substantial reduction of ROS in House Ear Institute‐Organ of Corti 1 (HEI‐OC1) cells treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Additionally, the 2D Nb2C MXenzyme demonstrates significant protection on hair cells by preventing cytotoxicity and apoptosis induced by H2O2. In vivo experiments further support the efficacy of the 2D Nb2C MXenzyme in restoring hearing impairment caused by extensive noise exposure. Specifically, it restores the raised amplitude of Wave I in auditory brainstem response (ABR) records and promotes the recovery of damaged ribbon synapses in inner hair cells. Notably, the therapeutic effect of the 2D Nb2C MXenzyme is attributed to its ability to suppress cochlear oxidative stress evidenced by immunohistochemical analysis. This research provides a new approach for treating hearing loss‐related ear diseases by utilizing catalytic biomaterials and nanomedicine with enzyme‐mimicking properties.
Osteogenic Induction and Anti‐Inflammatory Effects of Calcium‐Chlorogenic Acid Nanoparticles Remodel the Osteoimmunology Microenvironment for Accelerating Bone Repair
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhang Shuo , Shi Lusen , Shi Jiapei , Sun Chunhui , Wang Jingang , Zhou Weijia , Zhou Hengxing , Shan Fengjuan , Wang Hongli , Wang Jie , Ren Na , Feng Shiqing , Liu Hong , Wang Shuping
Published: June 2024

Successful bone regeneration requires close cooperation between bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) and macrophages, but the low osteogenic differentiation efficiency of stem cells and the excessive inflammatory response of immune cells hinder the development of bone repair. It is necessary to develop a strategy that simultaneously regulates the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and the anti‐inflammatory polarization of macrophages for accelerating the bone regeneration. Herein, calcium‐chlorogenic acid nanoparticles (Ca‐CGA NPs) are synthesized by combining the small molecules of chlorogenic acid (CGA) with Ca2+. Ca‐CGA NPs internalized by cells can be dissolved to release free CGA and Ca2+ under low pH conditions in lysosomes. In vitro results demonstrate that Ca‐CGA NPs can not only enhance the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs but also promote the phenotype transformation of macrophages from M1 to M2. Furthermore, in vivo experiments confirm that Ca‐CGA NPs treatment facilitates the recovery of rat skull defect model through both osteoinduction and immunomodulation. This study develops a new Ca‐CGA NPs‐based strategy to induce the differentiation of BMSCs into osteoblasts and the polarization of macrophages into M2 phenotype, which is promising for accelerating bone repair.
Optical Fiber‐Enabled In Situ Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation for Infiltrating Tumor Therapy in Brain
Authors: Zhang Hang , Guan Shujuan , Wang Lei , Zhang Min , Wang Zhaoyin , Dai Zhihui
Published: June 2024

In addition to repressing proliferation, inhibiting the infiltration of tumor cells is an important strategy to improve the treatment of malignant tumors. Herein, a photocatalyst (pCNMC@Pt) is designed by sequentially assembling manganese dioxide, chlorin e6, and platinum (Pt) nanoparticles onto protonated graphitic carbon nitride. With the help of a Z‐scheme structure and near‐infrared (NIR) photosensitizer, pCNMC@Pt is capable of responding to NIR light to generate large amounts of hydrogen (H2). Taking lactic acid in the tumor microenvironment as a sacrificial reagent, H2 therapy initiated by the NIR photocatalyst remarkably impedes the growth of glioblastoma (GBM). More importantly, it is found that H2 can suppress the stemness of glioma stem cells, curbing both proliferation and infiltration of GBM. Furthermore, since pCNMC@Pt and light source are precisely co‐localized through a self‐built loading and illumination system, GBM in mouse brains can be efficiently treated, providing an alternative gas therapy approach to cure infiltrating tumors.
Capture and Storage of Cell‐Free DNA via Bio‐Informational Hydrogel Microspheres
Authors: Ding Tao , Xiao Yongqiang , Saiding Qimanguli , Li Xiaoxiao , Chen Gang , Zhang Tianyu , Ma Jing , Cui Wenguo
Published: June 2024

Excessive cell‐free DNA (cfDNA) can induce chronic inflammation by activating intracellular nucleic acid sensors. Intervention in cfDNA‐mediated “pro‐inflammatory signaling transduction” could be a potential alleviating strategy for chronic inflammation, such as in diabetic wounds. However, effectively and specifically downgrading cfDNA concentration in the pathological microenvironment remains a challenge. Therefore, this work prepares free‐standing polydopamine nanosheets through DNA‐guided assembly and loaded them into microfluidic hydrogel microspheres. The π─π stacking/hydrogen bonding interactions between polydopamine nanosheets and the π‐rich bases of cfDNA, along with the cage‐like spatial confinement created by the hydrogel polymer network, achieved cfDNA capture and storage, respectively. Catechol in polydopamine nanosheets can also assist in reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels. Efficient cfDNA binding independent of serum proteins, specific interdiction of abnormal activation of cfDNA‐associated toll‐like receptor 9, as well as down‐regulation of inflammatory cytokines and ROS levels are shown in this system. The chronic inflammation alleviating and the pro‐healing effects on the mice model with diabetic wounds are also investigated. This work presents a new strategy for capturing and storing cfDNA to intervene in cell signaling transduction. It also offers new insights into the regulatory mechanisms between inflammatory mediators and biomaterials in inflammation‐related diseases.
Spontaneous Supercrystal Formation During a Strain‐Engineered Metal–Insulator Transition
Authors: Gorobtsov Oleg Yu. , Miao Ludi , Shao Ziming , Tan Yueze , Schnitzer Noah , Goodge Berit Hansen , Ruf Jacob , Weinstock Daniel , Cherukara Mathew , Holt Martin Victor , Nair Hari , Chen Long‐Qing , Kourkoutis Lena Fitting , Schlom Darrell G. , Shen Kyle M. , Singer Andrej
Published: June 2024

Mott metal–insulator transitions possess electronic, magnetic, and structural degrees of freedom promising next‐generation energy‐efficient electronics. A previously unknown, hierarchically ordered, and anisotropic supercrystal state is reported and its intrinsic formation characterized in‐situ during a Mott transition in a Ca2RuO4 thin film. Machine learning‐assisted X‐ray nanodiffraction together with cryogenic electron microscopy reveal multi‐scale periodic domain formation at and below the film transition temperature (TFilm ≈ 200–250 K) and a separate anisotropic spatial structure at and above TFilm. Local resistivity measurements imply an intrinsic coupling of the supercrystal orientation to the material's anisotropic conductivity. These findings add a new degree of complexity to the physical understanding of Mott transitions, opening opportunities for designing materials with tunable electronic properties.
Printed Liquid Crystal Optical Vortex Beam Generators
Authors: Li Mengmeng , Elston Steve J. , He Chao , Qiu Xuke , Castrejón‐Pita Alfonso A. , Morris Stephen M.
Published: June 2024

This study presents an innovative application of inkjet printing technology in the construction of a switchable optical vortex beam generator. The fabrication process involves drop‐on‐demand printing of liquid crystal (LC) droplets that can generate an optical vortex beam in the far‐field with the application of a voltage. Notably, this vortex beam can be activated and deactivated by manipulating the amplitude of the electric field. Both simulations and experiments are used to determine the optical characteristics of the printed LC devices and the resulting far‐field patterns for different polarizations of light. The study showcases the versatility of the generator in that it can produce both vortex and vector beams, the choice of which is simply determined by the polarization of the input light. This highlight the potential of this printed LC technology for integration into a multitude of optical systems.
Low Amplified Spontaneous Emission Threshold from Solution Processable Excited‐State Intramolecular Proton Transfer Chromophores
Authors: Rahane Vijay P. , Shukla Atul , Roseli Ras Baizureen , Ireland Alexander R. , Gale Innes , Krenske Elizabeth H. , Moore Evan G. , Namdas Ebinazar B. , Jain Nidhi , Lo Shih‐Chun
Published: June 2024

Chromophores undergoing excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) feature a distinct four‐level photocycle and significant Stokes shift, which make them ideal for achieving population inversion upon photoexcitation, a fundamental prerequisite for lasing, by mitigating the concerns of self‐absorption owing to spectral overlap. This study focuses on functionalizing the hydroxyphenyl‐benzothiazole (HBT) ESIPT laser dye through the introduction of fluorene and phenyl‐carbazole moieties at the para‐position to the hydroxyl group, to demonstrate amplified spontaneous emission (ASE) activities. The synthesized HBT derivatives not only exhibit high thermal and photostability, but also high photoluminescence quantum yields, exceeding 40%, which is noteworthy for ESIPT materials emitting in the yellow–orange to red color ranges. Computational analyses show that these new HBT materials possess substantially lower ESIPT energy barriers, compared to their parent HBT, facilitating their efficient ESIPT processes. Moreover, these derivatives demonstrate a high radiative rate of 1.47 × 108 s−1. Thin films of a fluorene‐substituted HBT (HBT‐pFl) show a low solid‐state amplified spontaneous emission threshold value of 3.8 µJ cm−2 at 582 nm, representing the lowest reported solid‐state ASE threshold for laser dyes in the orange emission region (575–600 nm) to date.
UV‐Triggered Optical Asymmetry Modification of Gold Nanorods Helical Assemblies in a Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Host
Authors: Liu Yang , Lin Guangjie , Chen Yongguang , Wei Xiyang , Du Mingjuan , Zhang Yongfang , Li Zhaoling , Zhao Lina
Published: June 2024

The creation and modulation of chirality in nanomaterials is a well‐established and widely applied concept. Nevertheless, the direct approach of dynamically tuning their morphological asymmetry at the nanoscale to reveal their optical asymmetry variations is yet less well‐implemented. The helical templating of nanomaterials within a cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) host and the exploitation of their optical asymmetry change in conjunction with the host represent a means of circumventing technological limitations. In this study, a blending approach is employed to investigate the helical assemblies of gold nanorods (Au NRs) within a photo‐tunable CLC host, followed by their morphological asymmetry modulation through the use of UV irradiation. The results demonstrated that the optical asymmetry of the Au NRs helical assemblies increased in response to a reduction in pitch and the distance between the Au NRs, regardless of the azimuthal variations. Furthermore, the Au NRs blended with CLCs exhibited excellent and stable reflective properties comparable to those of conventional CLCs. Additionally, they can modulate the light flux of incident light at NIR wavelengths. The integrated modulation of reflection and transmission by Au NRs helical assemblies and CLC hosts represents a promising avenue for future research in the field of multi‐level information encryption.
Distorted Lead‐Free Germanium‐Based Perovskite Single‐Crystals for Stable and Efficient X‐Ray Detection and Imaging
Authors: Chen Ming , Zheng Xiaokai , Li Yaohui , Dong Xiaofeng , Pi Jiacheng , Chu Depeng , Liu Naiming , Jia Binxia , Liang Yuqian , Zhang Xiaojie , Zhao Zeqin , Hao Jinglu , Zhao Lei , Feng Ziyang , Wei Mingyue , Shi Ruixin , Liu Shengzhong(Frank) , Liu Yucheng
Published: June 2024

3D metal halide perovskite X‐ray detectors have become the focus of research in recent years due to their superior sensitivity. However, the reported efficient perovskite X‐ray detectors all contain highly toxic lead and worrisome stability, which greatly limits their wide application and promotion. In this study, a distorted 3D germanium perovskite MAGeI3 single crystal (SC) is designed and grown by gradient cooling method. Due to its distorted octahedral structure, the MAGeI3 SCs not only possess high sensitivity but also have superior long‐term working stability. Specifically, the MAGeI3 SC X‐ray detectors achieve a record sensitivity of 42825 µC Gy−1 cm−2 and an impressive low detection limit of 4.1 nGy s−1, both of them are far better than the state‐of‐the‐art lead‐free perovskite SC X‐ray detectors. Moreover, the unencapsulated SC detector still maintains the original response even at high applied electric field and high dose rate X‐ray irradiation for several hours. Eventually, a high resolution of 7.2 lp mm−1 in X‐ray imaging is demonstrated on the MAGeI3 SC detector under a low dose rate of 478 nGy s−1 and at a low electric field of 1 V mm−1. This work provides a new pathway to design high‐performance and low‐toxicity X‐ray detectors.
Anti‐Quenching NIR‐II Excitation Phenylboronic Acid Modified Conjugated Polyelectrolyte for Intracellular Peroxynitrite‐Enhanced Chemo–Photothermal Therapy
Authors: Sun Pengfei , Hu Danni , Chen Pengfei , Wang Xuanzong , Shen Qingming , Chen Shangyu , Li Daifeng , Fan Quli
Published: June 2024

Multidrug resistance to clinical chemotherapeutic drugs severely limits antitumor efficacy and patient survival. The integration of chemotherapy with photothermal therapy (PTT) and reactive nitrogen species has become a major strategy to enhance cancer treatment efficacy. Herein, a multifunctional peroxynitrite (ONOO−) nanogenerator (PBT/NO/Pt) for NIR‐II fluorescence (NIR‐II FL)/NIR‐II photoacoustic (NIR‐II PA) imaging‐guided chemo/NIR‐II PTT/ONOO− combination therapy is reported. The multifunction nanogenerator is developed by co‐loading a pH‐sensitive nitric oxide donor (DETA NONOate) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases trigger superoxide (O2•−) generator chemotherapy drug (CDDP) to an NIR‐II excitation‐conjugated polyelectrolyte (PNC11BA). PNC11BA has non‐conjugated alkyl chain segments in the polymer backbone and abundant positively charged phenylboronic acid in its side chains, which support the anti‐quenching of NIR‐II FL and the integration of DETA NONOate and CDDP into PBT/NO/Pt. In the acidic tumor microenvironment, the coordination bonds between CDDP and PNC11BA are cleaved, releasing CDDP for chemotherapeutic activity. The simultaneous release of nitric oxide (NO) and O2•− rapidly leads to the in situ generation of the more cytotoxic reactive physiological nitrogen species ONOO−. In vitro and in vivo results prove that PBT/NO/Pt exhibited a markedly ONOO− enhanced chemo–photothermal synergistic therapy for SKOV3/DDP tumor by downregulating the intracellular glutathione and increasing CDDP–DNA adducts.
Engineered Bacteria as Living Biosensors in Dermal Tattoos
Authors: Allen Matthew E. , Kamilova Elina , Monck Carolina , Ceroni Francesca , Hu Yubing , Yetisen Ali K. , Elani Yuval
Published: June 2024

Dermal tattoo biosensors are promising platforms for real‐time monitoring of biomarkers, with skin used as a diagnostic interface. Traditional tattoo sensors have utilized small molecules as biosensing elements. However, the rise of synthetic biology has enabled the potential employment of engineered bacteria as living analytical tools. Exploiting engineered bacterial sensors will allow for potentially more sensitive detection across a broad biomarker range, with advanced processing and sense/response functionalities using genetic circuits. Here, the interfacing of bacterial biosensors as living analytics in tattoos is shown. Engineered bacteria are encapsulated into micron‐scale hydrogel beads prepared through scalable microfluidics. These biosensors can sense both biochemical cues (model biomarkers) and biophysical cues (temperature changes, using RNA thermometers), with fluorescent readouts. By tattooing beads into skin models and confirming sensor activity post‐tattooing, our study establishes a foundation for integrating bacteria as living biosensing entities in tattoos.
PEDOT‐Integrated Fish Swim Bladders as Conductive Nerve Conduits
Authors: Zhang Hui , Xu Dongyu , Zhang Bin , Li Xiaofan , Li Minli , Zhang Chen , Wang Huan , Zhao Yuanjin , Chai Renjie
Published: June 2024

Advanced artificial nerve conduits offer a promising alternative for nerve injury repair. Current research focuses on improving the therapeutic effectiveness of nerve conduits by optimizing scaffold materials and functional components. In this study, a novel poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT)‐integrated fish swim bladder (FSB) is presented as a conductive nerve conduit with ordered topology and electrical stimulation to promote nerve regeneration. PEDOT nanomaterials and adhesive peptides (IKVAV) are successfully incorporated onto the decellularized FSB substrate through pre‐coating with polydopamine. The obtained PEDOT/IKVAV‐integrated FSB substrate exhibits outstanding mechanical properties, high electrical conductivity, stability, as well as excellent biocompatibility and bioadhesive properties. In vitro studies confirm that the PEDOT/IKVAV‐integrated FSB can effectively facilitate the growth and directional extension of pheochromocytoma 12 cells and dorsal root ganglion neurites. In addition, in vivo experiments demonstrate that the proposed PEDOT/IKVAV‐integrated FSB conduit can accelerate defective nerve repair and functional restoration. The findings indicate that the FSB‐derived conductive nerve conduits with multiple regenerative inducing signals integration provide a conducive milieu for nerve regeneration, exhibiting great potential for repairing long‐segment neural defects.
Glycan Profiling in Small Extracellular Vesicles with a SERS Microfluidic Biosensor Identifies Early Malignant Development in Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhou Quan , Niu Xueming , Zhang Zhen , O'Byrne Kenneth , Kulasinghe Arutha , Fielding David , Möller Andreas , Wuethrich Alain , Lobb Richard J. , Trau Matt
Published: June 2024

Glycosylation is the most common post‐translational modification of proteins and regulates a myriad of fundamental biological processes under normal, and pathological conditions. Altered protein glycosylation is linked to malignant transformation, showing distinct glycopatterns that are associated with cancer initiation and progression by regulating tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance. The glycopatterns of small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) released by cancer cells are promising candidates for cancer monitoring since they exhibit glycopatterns similar to their cell‐of‐origin. However, the clinical application of sEV glycans is challenging due to the limitations of current analytical technologies in tracking the trace amounts of sEVs specifically derived from tumors in circulation. Herein, a sEV GLYcan PHenotype (EV‐GLYPH) assay that utilizes a microfluidic platform integrated with surface‐enhanced Raman scattering for multiplex profiling of sEV glycans in non‐small cell lung cancer is clinically validated. For the first time, the EV‐GLYPH assay effectively identifies distinct sEV glycan signatures between non‐transformed and malignantly transformed lung cells. In a clinical study evaluated on 40 patients, the EV‐GLYPH assay successfully differentiates patients with early‐stage malignant lung nodules from benign lung nodules. These results reveal the potential to profile sEV glycans for noninvasive diagnostics and prognostics, opening up promising avenues for clinical applications and understanding the role of sEV glycosylation in lung cancer.
Dislocation Density‐Mediated Functionality in Single‐Crystal BaTiO3
Authors: Zhuo Fangping , Zhou Xiandong , Dietrich Felix , Soleimany Mehrzad , Breckner Patrick , Groszewicz Pedro B. , Xu Bai‐Xiang , Buntkowsky Gerd , Rödel Jürgen
Published: June 2024

Unlike metals where dislocations carry strain singularity but no charge, dislocations in oxide ceramics are characterized by both a strain field and a local charge with a compensating charge envelope. Oxide ceramics with their deliberate engineering and manipulation are pivotal in numerous modern technologies such as semiconductors, superconductors, solar cells, and ferroics. Dislocations facilitate plastic deformation in metals and lead to a monotonous increase in the strength of metallic materials in accordance with the widely recognized Taylor hardening law. However, achieving the objective of tailoring the functionality of oxide ceramics by dislocation density still remains elusive. Here a strategy to imprint dislocations with {100}<100> slip systems and a tenfold change in dislocation density of BaTiO3 single crystals using high‐temperature uniaxial compression are reported. Through a dislocation density‐based approach, dielectric permittivity, converse piezoelectric coefficient, and alternating current conductivity are tailored, exhibiting a peak at medium dislocation density. Combined with phase‐field simulations and domain wall potential energy analyses, the dislocation‐density‐based design in bulk ferroelectrics is mechanistically rationalized. These findings may provide a new dimension for employing plastic strain engineering to tune the electrical properties of ferroics, potentially paving the way for advancing dislocation technology in functional ceramics.
nCas9 Engineering for Improved Target Interaction Presents an Effective Strategy to Enhance Base Editing
Authors: Zhang Guiquan , Song Ziguo , Huang Shisheng , Wang Yafeng , Sun Jiayuan , Qiao Lu , Li Guanglei , Feng Yuanyuan , Han Wei , Tang Jin , Chen Yulin , Huang Xingxu , Liu Furui , Wang Xiaolong , Liu Jianghuai
Published: June 2024

Base editors (BEs) are a recent generation of genome editing tools that couple a cytidine or adenosine deaminase activity to a catalytically impaired Cas9 moiety (nCas9) to enable specific base conversions at the targeted genomic loci. Given their strong application potential, BEs are under active developments toward greater levels of efficiency and safety. Here, a previously overlooked nCas9‐centric strategy is explored for enhancement of BE. Based on a cytosine BE (CBE), 20 point mutations associated with nCas9‐target interaction are tested. Subsequently, from the initial positive X‐to‐arginine hits, combinatorial modifications are applied to establish further enhanced CBE variants (1.1–1.3). Parallel nCas9 modifications in other versions of CBEs including A3A‐Y130F‐BE4max, YEE‐BE4max, CGBE, and split‐AncBE4max, as well as in the context of two adenine BEs (ABE), likewise enhance their respective activities. The same strategy also substantially improves the efficiencies of high‐fidelity nCas9/BEs. Further evidence confirms that the stabilization of nCas9‐substrate interactions underlies the enhanced BE activities. In support of their translational potential, the engineered CBE and ABE variants respectively enable 82% and 25% higher rates of editing than the controls in primary human T‐cells. This study thus demonstrates a highly adaptable strategy for enhancing BE, and for optimizing other forms of Cas9‐derived tools.