bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet Vesicles Synergetic with Biosynthetic Cellulose Aerogels for Ultra‐Fast Hemostasis and Wound Healing
Authors: Wang Ying , Guo Yicheng , Liu Yuqing , Zhao Xiaohong , Huang Yong , Zhang Xiaorong , Hu Xiaohong , Mequanint Kibret , Luo Gaoxing , Xing Malcolm
Published: February 2024

Achieving hemostasis in penetrating and irregular wounds is challenging because the hemostasis factor cannot arrive at the bleeding site, and substantial bleeding will wash away the blood clot. Since the inherently gradual nature of blood clot formation takes time, a physical barrier is needed before blood clot formation. Herein, an ultra‐light and shape memory hemostatic aerogel consisting of oxidized bacterial cellulose (OBC) and platelet extracellular vesicles (pVEs) is reported. The OBC‐pVEs aerogel provides a physical barrier for the bleeding site by self‐expansion, absorbing the liquid from blood to concentrate platelets and clotting factors and accelerating the clot formation by activating platelets and transforming fibrinogen into fibrin. In the rat liver and tail injury models, the blood loss decreases by 73% and 59%, and the bleeding times are reduced by 55% and 62%, respectively. OBC‐pVEs aerogel has also been shown to accelerate wound healing. In conclusion, this work introduces an effective tool for treating deep, non‐compressible, and irregular wounds and offers valuable strategies for trauma bleeding and wound treatment.
Toward a Brain–Neuromorphics Interface
Authors: Wan Changjin , Pei Mengjiao , Shi Kailu , Cui Hangyuan , Long Haotian , Qiao Lesheng , Xing Qianye , Wan Qing
Published: February 2024

Brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) that enable human–machine interaction have immense potential in restoring or augmenting human capabilities. Traditional BCIs are realized based on complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) technologies with complex, bulky, and low biocompatible circuits, and suffer with the low energy efficiency of the von Neumann architecture. The brain–neuromorphics interface (BNI) would offer a promising solution to advance the BCI technologies and shape the interactions with machineries. Neuromorphic devices and systems are able to provide substantial computation power with extremely high energy‐efficiency by implementing in‐materia computing such as in situ vector–matrix multiplication (VMM) and physical reservoir computing. Recent progresses on integrating neuromorphic components with sensing and/or actuating modules, give birth to the neuromorphic afferent nerve, efferent nerve, sensorimotor loop, and so on, which has advanced the technologies for future neurorobotics by achieving sophisticated sensorimotor capabilities as the biological system. With the development on the compact artificial spiking neuron and bioelectronic interfaces, the seamless communication between a BNI and a bioentity is reasonably expectable. In this review, the upcoming BNIs are profiled by introducing the brief history of neuromorphics, reviewing the recent progresses on related areas, and discussing the future advances and challenges that lie ahead.
Autonomous Output‐Oriented Aerosol Jet Printing Enabled by Hybrid Machine Learning
Authors: Du Yipu , Jiang Meng , Zhang Yanliang
Published: February 2024

Additive manufacturing (AM) is rapidly revolutionizing modern manufacturing with recent progress in advanced printing methods and improved properties of printed materials. However, traditional AM methods are limited by their input‐oriented nature, which demands tedious trial‐and‐error tuning of printing parameters to achieve desired output properties. Here, an output‐oriented artificial intelligence‐integrated AM (AIAM) method is reported that enables an user to specify desired output properties while the printer autonomously discovers the optimal input printing parameters by integrating hybrid machine learning models and in situ measurements. Based on a predictive mapping between the input printing parameters and the output properties of interests established with <20 experiments designed by active learning, inverse design tasks are performed to intelligently generate the printing parameter settings that lead to desired outcomes using reinforcement learning. This method is demonstrated by autonomous aerosol jet printing (AJP) of conductive polymer films and achieving user‐defined electrical resistances with an ultralow error of 3.7%. The AIAM method, with its output‐oriented nature, holds the potential to significantly improve the autonomy, predictability, efficiency, and accessibility of the AM processes, which will unlock new possibilities in the autonomous and intelligent printing of a broad range of functional materials and devices.
Full‐Range On‐Body Strain Sensor of Laser‐Induced Graphene Embedded in Thermoplastic Elastomer via Hot Pressing Transfer for Monitoring of the Physiological Signals
Authors: Liu Jiaqi , Wu Dun , Liu Chunlin , Wang Qiang , Wang Haoyu
Published: February 2024

Acquiring physical and mechanical strain information of the human body with wearable strain sensors can provide essential data from personal healthcare to human‐machine interfaces and others. Recent research reveals that CO2 laser scribing can convert polyimide films into porous graphene sponges under ambient atmospheres. However, the electrically conductive laser‐induced graphene (LIG) film mismatches with the tough and rigid plastic substrates when it is employed as stretchable strain sensors. In this work, by leveraging the advantageous properties of atoms‐level configured defects within crystalline LIG and heat transfer printing techniques, a flexible LIG‐SEBS (styrene‐ethylene‐butylene‐styrene) strain sensor is made. It is able to achieve exceptional electromechanical properties including a remarkable sensitivity in terms of gauge factor (413–3118), minimal hysteresis, and a broad strain range (>100% strain). Meanwhile, the SEBS‐LIG strain sensor has a stable and fast dynamic response and good repeatability. Additionally, the sensor can be integrated with a wireless communication module for remote monitoring of physiological signals in a real‐time manner with a smartphone App.
Plasmonic Enhancement of Second Harmonic Generation in Weyl Semimetal TaAs
Authors: Yang Morris M. , Ozlu Mustafa Goksu , Peana Samuel , Sychev Demid , Mkhitaryan Vahagn , Xu Xiaohui , Martin Zachariah O. , Arachchige Hasitha Suriya , Lagoutchev Alexei , Mandrus David , Shalaev Vladimir M. , Boltasseva Alexandra
Published: February 2024

In this work a hybrid nanoplasmonic‐Weyl Semimetal (WSM) structure is realized for the first time utilizing silver nanopatch antennas and WSM Tantalum Arsenide (TaAs). The studied hybrid WSM‐nanoplasmonic structure demonstrated a substantial, over x4.5 enhancement of the second harmonic generation (SHG) process compared to a bare TaAs film. To realize the hybrid structure while preserving TaAs properties, a scalable, non‐destructive manufacturing approach is developed that involves the fabrication of TaAs flakes from single crystalline TaAs, overgrowth of a silicon nitride overlayer, and drop‐casting of silver nanopatch antennas. The strong polarization response of both the bare flakes, along with the hybrid‐nanoplasmonic cavities demonstrates that this approach uniquely preserves the TaAs crystal structure and its optical response while providing significant enhancement of the nonlinear properties. The developed method allows leveraging the capabilities of plasmonics to control and enhance light‐matter interactions at the nanometer scale to access and engineer WSM response. This work is the first step towards high‐performance nanophotonic devices utilizing WSM topological properties.
Targeting GRP75 with a Chlorpromazine Derivative Inhibits Endometrial Cancer Progression Through GRP75–IP3R‐Ca2+‐AMPK Axis
Authors: Wang Qi , Li Lijuan , Gao Xiaoyan , Zhang Chunxue , Xu Chen , Song Lingyi , Li Jian , Sun Xiao , Mao Fei , Wang Yudong
Published: February 2024

Tumors often overexpress glucose‐regulated proteins, and agents that interfere with the production or activity of these proteins may represent novel cancer treatments. The chlorpromazine derivative JX57 exhibits promising effects against endometrial cancer with minimal extrapyramidal side effects; however, its mechanisms of action are currently unknown. Here, glucose‐regulated protein 75 kD (GRP75) is identified as a direct target of JX57 using activity‐based protein profiling and loss‐of‐function experiments. The findings show that GRP75 is necessary for the biological activity of JX57, as JX57 exhibits moderate anticancer properties in GRP75‐deficient cancer cells, both in vitro and in vivo. High GRP75 expression is correlated with poor differentiation and poor survival in patients with endometrial cancer, whereas the knockdown of GRP75 can significantly suppress tumor growth. Mechanistically, the direct binding of JX57 to GRP75 impairs the structure of the mitochondria‐associated endoplasmic reticulum membrane and disrupts the endoplasmic reticulum–mitochondrial calcium homeostasis, resulting in a mitochondrial energy crisis and AMP‐activated protein kinase activation. Taken together, these findings highlight GRP75 as a potential prognostic biomarker and direct therapeutic target in endometrial cancer and suggest that the chlorpromazine derivative JX57 can potentially be a new therapeutic option for endometrial cancer.
Unveiling the Role of Ge in CZTSSe Solar Cells by Advanced Micro‐To‐Atom Scale Characterizations
Authors: Cong Jialin , He Mingrui , Jang Jun Sung , Huang Jialiang , Privat Karen , Chen Yi‐Sheng , Li Jianjun , Yang Limei , Green Martin A. , Kim Jin Hyeok , Cairney Julie M. , Hao Xiaojing
Published: February 2024

Kesterite is an earth‐abundant energy material with high predicted power conversion efficiency, making it a sustainable and promising option for photovoltaics. However, a large open circuit voltage Voc deficit due to non‐radiative recombination at intrinsic defects remains a major hurdle, limiting device performance. Incorporating Ge into the kesterite structure emerges as an effective approach for enhancing performance by manipulating defects and morphology. Herein, how different amounts of Ge affect the kesterite growth pathways through the combination of advanced microscopy characterization techniques are systematically investigated. The results demonstrate the significance of incorporating Ge during the selenization process of the CZTSSe thin film. At high temperature, the Ge incorporation effectively delays the selenization process due to the formation of a ZnSe layer on top of the metal alloys through decomposition of the Cu‐Zn alloy and formation of Cu‐Sn alloy, subsequently forming of Cu‐Sn‐Se phase. Such an effect is compounded by more Ge incorporation that further postpones kesterite formation. Furthermore, introducing Ge mitigates detrimental “horizontal” grain boundaries by increasing the grain size on upper layer. The Ge incorporation strategy discussed in this study holds great promise for improving device performance and grain quality in CZTSSe and other polycrystalline chalcogenide solar cells.
Recent Approaches for Cleaving the C─C Bond During Ethanol Electro‐Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Liang Chenjia , Zhao Ruiyao , Chen Teng , Luo Yi , Hu Jianqiang , Qi Ping , Ding Weiping
Published: February 2024

Direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs) play an indispensable role in the cyclic utilization of carbon resources due to its high volumetric energy density, high efficiency, and environmental benign character. However, owing to the chemically stable carbon‐carbon (C─C) bond of ethanol, its incomplete electrooxidation at the anode severely inhibits the energy and power density output of DEFCs. The efficiency of C─C bond cleaving on the state‐of‐the‐art Pt or Pd catalysts is reported as low as 7.5%. Recently, tremendous efforts are devoted to this field, and some effective strategies are put forward to facilitate the cleavage of the C─C bond. It is the right time to summarize the major breakthroughs in ethanol electrooxidation reaction. In this review, some optimization strategies including constructing core–shell nanostructure with alloying effect, doping other metal atoms in Pt and Pd catalysts, engineering composite catalyst with interface synergism, introducing cascade catalytic sites, and so on, are systematically summarized. In addition, the catalytic mechanism as well as the correlations between the catalyst structure and catalytic efficiency are further discussed. Finally, the prevailing limitations and feasible improvement directions for ethanol electrooxidation are proposed.
Large‐Area Processable Ultrathin Organic Transistors with High Mobility and Mechanical Stabilities
Authors: Mun Tae Jin , Kim Jungjun , Seong Junyoung , Jang Yerim , Lee Wonryung , Seong Hyejeong
Published: February 2024

For applications involving the implantation of organic thin‐film transistors (OTFTs) in flexible environments, maintaining uniform device performance and ultrathin profiles with excellent mechanical stability is crucial for dynamic deformable conditions. This study presents high‐performance, mechanically flexible ultrathin OTFTs with a thickness under 5 µm, designed to be scalable for utilization in large areas. The OTFTs utilized an organosilicon polymer dielectric layer synthesized via initiated chemical vapor deposition combined with the crystalline organic semiconductor 2‐Decyl‐7‐phenyl[1]benzothieno[3,2‐b][1]benzothiophene (Ph‐BTBT‐10). Compared with conventional organic transistors, the OTFTs exhibited exceptional features, such as a charge carrier mobility of up to 7 cm2 V−1 s−1 and a near‐zero threshold voltage. Their performance is showcased across 900 devices on a 10 cm × 10 cm substrate to ensure uniformity and scalability. Additionally, the OTFTs demonstrate remarkable resilience to mechanical deformation, with a 97.4% mobility retention rate under a 20% tensile compression. After 1000 cycles of repeated deformation stress, they maintain a robust 94.6% performance level compared with the initial state. In summary, the ultrathin flexible OTFTs exhibit exceptional resilience to mechanical deformation, extended air exposure, uniformity in large arrays, and high mobility. This makes them promising for diverse applications, such as in vivo organ monitoring and skin displays.
Tertiary‐Amine Based Network Polymer Electrolyte for Improving the Cyclic Stability of Na Metal Batteries with Large Capacity
Authors: Zhang Qi , Bian Tengfei , Liu Zewen , Wang Chenming , Song Xiaosheng , Shi Ruijuan , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2024

Polymer‐based sodium metal battery (SMB) has a great development prospect due to its low cost, good safety, and high theoretical energy density. However, sodium (Na) metal electrode suffers low cyclic stability due to the naturally‐formed unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI). Herein, 3D network polymer, poly‐bis(3‐(2‐methylaziridin‐1‐yl) propanoate (PBMP) is synthesized, for mechanically robust gel polymer electrolyte (GPE), in which the tertiary‐amine functional group with low‐valence N prefers to react with Na metal to produce a thin and ion‐conducive SEI, realizing Na+ fast and uniform plating/stripping. The assembled Na/GPE/Na3V2(PO4)3 full battery shows an ultrahigh capacity retention of 97.8% after 2000 cycles under 2 mA cm−2, which is the top‐level of GPE‐SMB. This work provides a new strategy to construct advanced SEI by regulating functional groups of network polymer for GPE‐SMBs with high safety.
Direct Machine Learning Predictions of C3 Pathways
Authors: Sun Mingzi , Huang Bolong
Published: February 2024

The C3 pathways of CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) lead to the generation of high‐value‐added chemicals for broad industrial applications, which are still challenging for current electrocatalysis. Only limited electrocatalysts have been reported with the ability to achieve C3 products while the corresponding reaction mechanisms are highly unclear. To overcome such challenges, the first‐principle machine learning (FPML) technique on graphdiyne‐based atomic catalysts (GDY‐ACs) is introduced to directly predict the reaction trends for the key C─C─C coupling processes and the conversions to different C3 products for the first time. All the prediction results are obtained only based on the learning dataset constructed by density functional theory (DFT) calculation results for C1 and C2 pathways, offering an efficient approach to screen promising electrocatalyst candidates for varied C3 products. More importantly, the ML predictions not only reveal the significant role of the neighboring effect and the small–large integrated cycle mechanisms but also supply important insights into the C─C─C coupling processes for understanding the competitive reactions among C1 to C3 pathways. This work has offered an advanced breakthrough for the complicated CO2RR processes, accelerating the future design of novel ACs for C3 products with high efficiency and selectivity.
Mapping the path to a net‐zero chemicals industry by long‐term planning with changes in technologies and climate
Authors: Thakker Vyom , Bakshi Bhavik R.
Published: February 2024

The chemical industry, along with many other industries, has pledged to reach net‐zero emissions within the next few decades for greenhouse gases, plastics, etc. This requires systematic methods to guide investment in technologies and value‐chain alternatives, and develop roadmaps. The proposed framework is a multiperiod planning model to guide optimal reforms in cradle‐to‐cradle life‐cycle networks across the pledged time horizon. It aims to meet environmental targets while minimizing the total annualized cost of natural resources and the investment cost associated with adoption of novel technologies. This considers the evolution of technology readiness levels as S‐curves or continuous time Markov‐chains. Integrated Assessment models account for climate change, decarbonization due to energy mix changes, and carbon taxes. Multiple climate change scenarios and shared socioeconomic pathways are used to model future scenarios. In addition to providing roadmaps, the outputs can also be used to identify technologies that will be robust to future scenarios.
A Chiral Triazole Ligand for Enantiodivergent Catalysis in Asymmetric 1,4‐Addition of Arylboronic Acid
Authors: Ju Dongyuan , Liang Chen , Zhang Chaoyue , Li Peishen , Song Zhiguang
Published: February 2024

Here, we reported a new type of chiral triazole‐oxazoline ligands for enantiodivergent catalysis. These ligands feature subtle modifications to the 1,2,3‐triazole skeleton and were systematically explored in the context of palladium‐catalyzed 1,4‐addition reactions of arylboronic acid to cyclic β‐substituted enones. The introduction of specific substituents on the triazole ligand led to switchable enantioselectivity, accompanied by consistently high yields.
Comparison between upper and lower airway microbiome profiles in chronic rhinosinusitis patients
Authors: Hernaiz‐Leonardo Juan Carlos , Ryu Changwan , Pascual Athenea , Fan Judy , Caray Maria , Pezato Rogério , Yang Julia , Sin Don , Thamboo Andrew
Published: February 2024

Background

Dysregulation of the airway microbiota is thought to contribute to airway inflammation in both chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and asthma. However, the relationship between the upper and lower airway microbiome remains unclear.

Methods

Sinus and lung brushes were collected from 29 CRS participants undergoing sinus surgery. DNA was extracted and submitted for 16s rRNA microbiome sequencing. Alpha and beta diversity metrics, taxonomic composition, and differences between individual taxa were compared for paired sinus and bronchial samples.

Results

Twenty‐three out of 29 participants had sufficient samples for analysis. The mean (standard deviation) age was 51.59 (14.57) years, and 10 (44%) patients were female. Twelve (52%) patients had comorbid asthma. Sinus brushes had significantly higher alpha diversity indexes (Shannon and Faith) compared to bronchial brushes (p < 0.001). Beta diversity metrics were significantly different between the sinus and bronchial samples. Principal coordinate analysis showed no clustering of paired nasal and bronchial samples. Sinus brushes had significantly more Lawsonella, Corynebacterium, and Staphylococcus compared to bronchia brushes, while the latter were enriched in Tropheryma and Sphingomonas, among others (false discovery rate [FDR]‐adjusted p < 0.01). Finally, CRS patients with comorbid asthma had significantly higher Pseudomonas and Peptoniphilus in sinus brushes and lower Prevotella in bronchial brushes when compared to non‐asthmatics (FDR‐adjusted p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The sinus and bronchial bacterial microbiomes differ in important ways. Our study suggests that migration of bacteria from the sinus into the lower airways is unlikely in patients with CRS.
Gene replacement‐Alzheimer's disease (GR‐AD): Modeling the genetics of human dementias in mice
Authors: Benzow Kellie , Karanjeet Kul , Oblak Adrian L. , Carter Gregory W. , Sasner Michael , Koob Michael D.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Genetic studies conducted over the past four decades have provided us with a detailed catalog of genes that play critical roles in the etiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias (ADRDs). Despite this progress, as a field we have had only limited success in incorporating this rich complexity of human AD/ADRD genetics findings into our animal models of these diseases. Our primary goal for the gene replacement (GR)‐AD project is to develop mouse lines that model the genetics of AD/ADRD as closely as possible.

METHODS

To do this, we are generating mouse lines in which the genes of interest are precisely and completely replaced in the mouse genome by their full human orthologs.

RESULTS

Each model set consists of a control line with a wild‐type human allele and variant lines that precisely match the human genomic sequence in the control line except for a high‐impact pathogenic mutation or risk variant.
Enhancing Flavins Photochemical Activity in Hydrogen Atom Abstraction and Triplet Sensitization through Ring‐Contraction
Authors: Rehpenn Andreas , Hindelang Stephan , Truong Khai‐Nghi , Pöthig Alexander , Storch Golo
Published: February 2024

The isoalloxazine heterocycle of flavin cofactors reacts with various nucleophiles to form covalent adducts with important functions in enzymes. Molecular flavin models allow for the characterization of such adducts and the study of their properties. A fascinating set of reactions occurs when flavins react with hydroxide base, which leads to imidazolonequinoxalines, ring‐contracted flavins, with so far unexplored activity. We report a systematic study of the photophysical properties of this new chromophore by absorption and emission spectroscopy as well as cyclic voltammetry. Excited, ring‐contracted flavins are significantly stronger hydrogen atom abstractors when compared to the parent flavins, which allowed the direct trifluoromethylthiolation of aliphatic methine positions (bond dissociation energy (BDE) of 400.8 kJ mol−1). In an orthogonal activity, their increased triplet energy (E(S0←T1)=244 kJ mol−1) made sensitized reactions possible which exceeded the power of standard flavins. Combining both properties, ring‐contracted flavin catalysts enabled the one‐pot, five‐step transformation of α‐tropolone into trans‐3,4‐disubstituted cyclopentanones. We envision this new class of flavin‐derived chromophores to open up new modes of reactivity that are currently impossible with unmodified flavins.
Coarse‐Grained Model‐Assisted Design of Polymer Prodrug Nanoparticles with Enhanced Cytotoxicity: A Combined Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Gao Ping , Ha‐Duong Tâp , Nicolas Julien
Published: February 2024

To achieve drug release from polymer prodrug nanoparticles, the drug‐polymer linker must be accessible for cleavage to release the drug, which can occur under certain physiological conditions (e.g., presence of specific enzymes). Supramolecular organization of polymer prodrug nanoparticles is crucial as it greatly affects the location of the linker, its surface exposure/solvation and thus its cleavage to release the drug. Since experimental access to these data is not straightforward, new methodologies are critically needed to access this information and to accelerate the development of more effective polymer prodrug nanoparticles, and replace the time‐consuming and resource‐intensive traditional trial‐and‐error strategy. In this context, we reported here the use of a coarse‐grained model to assist the design of polymer prodrug nanoparticles with enhanced cytotoxicity. By choosing the solvent accessible surface area as the critical parameter for predicting drug release and hence cytotoxicity of polymer prodrug nanoparticles, we developed an optimized polymer‐drug linker with enhanced hydrophilicity and solvation. Our hypothesis was then experimentally validated by the synthesis of the corresponding polymer prodrugs based on two different drugs (gemcitabine and paclitaxel), which demonstrated greater performances in terms of drug release and cytotoxicity on two cancer cell lines. Interestingly, our methodology can be easily applied to other polymer prodrug structures, which would contribute to the development of more efficient drug delivery systems via in silico screening.
Negatively Curved Octagon‐Incorporated Aza‐nanographene and its Assembly with Fullerenes
Authors: Liu Jun , Hong Juan , Liao Zhenxing , Tan Jingyun , Liu Haoliang , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Zhou Long , Ren Jie , Cao Xiao‐Yu , Popov Alexey A. , Zou Yingping , Narita Akimitsu , Hu Yunbin
Published: February 2024

A negatively curved aza‐nanographene (NG) containing two octagons was synthesized by a regioselective and stepwise cyclodehydrogenation procedure, in which a double aza[7]helicene was simultaneously formed as an intermediate. Their saddle‐shaped structures with negative curvature were unambiguously confirmed by X‐ray crystallography, thereby enabling the exploration of the structure–property relationship by photophysical, electrochemical and conformational studies. Moreover, the assembly of the octagon‐embedded aza‐NG with fullerenes was probed by fluorescence spectral titration, with record‐high binding constants (Ka=9.5×103 M−1 with C60, Ka=3.7×104 M−1 with C70) found among reported negatively curved polycyclic aromatic compounds. The tight association of aza‐NG with C60 was further elucidated by X‐ray diffraction analysis of their co‐crystal, which showed the formation of a 1 : 1 complex with substantial concave‐convex interactions.
Cooperation of Different Active Sites to Promote CO2 Electroreduction to Multi‐carbon Products at Ampere‐Level
Authors: Zhou Dawei , Chen Chunjun , Zhang Yichi , Wang Min , Han Shitao , Dong Xue , Yao Ting , Jia Shuaiqiang , He Mingyuan , Wu Haihong , Han Buxing
Published: February 2024

Electroreduction of CO2 to C2+ products provides a promising strategy for reaching the goal of carbon neutrality. However, achieving high selectivity of C2+ products at high current density remains a challenge. In this work, we designed and prepared a multi‐sites catalyst, in which Pd was atomically dispersed in Cu (Pd−Cu). It was found that the Pd−Cu catalyst had excellent performance for producing C2+ products from CO2 electroreduction. The Faradaic efficiency (FE) of C2+ products could be maintained at approximately 80.8 %, even at a high current density of 0.8 A cm−2 for at least 20 hours. In addition, the FE of C2+ products was above 70 % at 1.4 A cm−2. Experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the catalyst had three distinct catalytic sites. These three active sites allowed for efficient conversion of CO2, water dissociation, and CO conversion, ultimately leading to high yields of C2+ products.
Preparation and characterization of sodium caseinate/xanthan gum complexes in acidic conditions and their use for the stabilization of oil‐in‐water emulsions
Authors: Bouziane Houria , Seddari Soumia , Boudjema Fatiha , Moulai‐Mostefa Nadji
Published: February 2024

In this work, complexes formed by sodium caseinate (NaCn) and xanthan gum (XG) were tested as novel natural stabilizers. They were prepared at pH 4, using a constant concentration of XG (0.4%) and different NaCn concentrations. Then, they were characterized in terms of turbidity, surface tension (ST), and rheology. The acquired results indicated that the ST of NaCn solution and NaCn/XG dispersion decreases with NaCn concentration. In addition, the ST of NaCn/XG is higher than that of NaCn solution indicating interactions between NaCn and XG. In addition, the turbidity of the dispersions increases while ST decreases with NaCn concentration. Fourier transform spectroscopy (FTIR) spectra confirmed the formation of a complex between NaCn and XG through electrostatic interactions. Structural analyses demonstrated that the morphologies of the complex particles are different compared to the pure biopolymer ones. Furthermore, the oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions based on NaCn/XG complexes formed into acid conditions were studied. The obtained results showed that the stability, the average diameter of the droplets, and the rheological behavior of the formulated emulsions depend on the NaCn:XG ratio. Emulsion formulated with 0.5:1, 1:1, 1.5:1, 2:1 NaCn:XG ratio presented good creaming stability during 1 month of storage at 25°C. On the other hand, samples formulated with a 1:1 ratio of NaCn/XG exhibited the best stability. Their average diameter (29.026 μm) remained constant during the storage. Emulsions formulated with higher ration PR:PS (2.5:1, 3:1) were unstable and have larger droplets. Also, all formulations showed a shear‐thinning and elastic behavior.
Membrane‐based mechanical characterization of screen‐printed inks: Deflection analysis of ink layers on polyimide membranes
Authors: Masarweh Eléonore , Arseenko Mariia , Guaino Philippe , Flandre Denis
Published: February 2024

Measurements of Young's modulus and residual stresses of screen‐printed ink layers using a bulge test on coated polyimide‐based membranes are proposed in this work. The applied bulge test monitors the deflection of membranes under pressure with interferometry. The obtained Young's modulus ranges from 6 to 8 GPa for a carbon blend‐based ink and is around 12 GPa for a silver nanoparticle ink. These values are compared with standard nanoindentation and show good agreement. Besides, the residual stresses range from −4 to 8 MPa for the carbon blend‐based ink, while the silver ink is measured around −10 MPa. The use of the membrane‐based method underlines the influence of exact deposition and curing conditions on the ink film material properties. The impact of the substrate on the ink layer properties, such as the thickness and its uniformity, is discussed, especially with regard to the heat treatment of the membrane.
The dawn of an Era: New contributions on comparative and functional anatomy of Triassic tetrapods
Authors: Pinheiro Felipe L. , Pretto Flávio A. , Kerber Leonardo
Published: February 2024

The Triassic period stands as a crucial moment for understanding tetrapod evolution, marking the emergence and early diversification of numerous lineages that persist in today's ecosystems. Birds, crocodiles, testudines, lizards, and mammals can all trace their origins to the Triassic, which is distinguished by several adaptive radiation events that fostered unparalleled diversity in body plans and lifestyles. Beyond this macroevolutionary significance, the Triassic period serves as fertile ground for scientific inquiry, especially in tetrapod studies. The aim of this Special Issue is to assemble a diverse array of new contributions focused on continental Triassic tetrapods globally, encouraging collaboration among researchers across generations, pooling their efforts to comprehend this pivotal moment in tetrapod evolutionary history. This issue encompasses almost 40 varied contributions, spanning topics from comparative and functional anatomy, including descriptions of novel taxa, comprehensive anatomical reviews, systematic investigations, phylogenetic analyses, paleoneurological studies, biomechanical assessments, and detailed examinations of histology and ontogeny. Collectively, this Special Issue offers an extensive exploration of Triassic tetrapods from anatomical, ecological, and evolutionary perspectives, unveiling fresh insights into this intriguing moment in vertebrate evolutionary history.
Synthesis of novel benzylamine antimycotics and evaluation of their antimycotic potency
Authors: Klimt Monika , Stadler Martina , Binder Ulrike , Krauss Jürgen
Published: February 2024

A series of 23 novel benzylamines was synthesized by reductive amination from halogen‐substituted 3‐ and 4‐benzyloxybenzaldehyde derivatives and 6‐methylhept‐2‐yl amine or n‐octylamine. The antimycotic activity of the resulting amines was evaluated in a microdilution assay against the apathogenic yeast Yarrowia lipolytica as test microorganism. Promising compounds were also tested against human pathogenic Candida species. The influence of halogen substituents at the benzyl ether side chain was studied in this screening, as well as the influence of the branched side chain of (±)‐6‐methylhept‐2‐yl amine in comparison with the n‐octyl side chain.
A method for estimating the effect of climate change on monthly mean temperatures: September 2023 and other recent record‐warm months in Helsinki, Finland
Authors: Rantanen Mika , Räisänen Jouni , Merikanto Joonas
Published: February 2024

We describe a method for quantifying the contribution of climate change to local monthly, seasonal, and annual mean temperatures for locations where long observational temperature records are available. The method is based on estimating the change in the monthly mean temperature distribution due to climate change using CMIP6 (Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6) model data. As a case study, we apply the method to the record‐warm September 2023 in Helsinki, and then briefly examine all record‐warm months of the 21st century. Our results suggest that climate change made the record‐warm September in Helsinki 9.4 times more likely and 1.4°C warmer. Thus, the new monthly mean record in September 2023 would probably not have been set without the observed global warming. The presented and provided tool allows operational meteorologists and climatologists to monitor and report the impact of climate change on local temperatures in near real time.
Pyrolysis of macroalgae residue from the agar industry for silica‐rich biochar and other sustainable chemicals: Process performances, product applications, and simple business scenario
Authors: Putri Anisa Helena Isma , Steven Soen , Oktavia Fika Dwi , Restiawaty Elvi , Adilina Indri Badria , Safaat Muhammad , Hernowo Pandit , Prakoso Tirto , Istyami Astri Nur , Pratiwi Meiti , Bindar Yazid
Published: February 2024

The macroalgae residue from the industrial agar extraction process contains a significant amount of carbon and has potential as a renewable feedstock. Unfortunately, it is often overlooked and is poorly utilized. This study aims to valorize this macroalgae residue through pyrolysis to produce silica‐rich biochar and other value‐added products in the form of biocrude oil (BCO) and biopyrolysis gas. The macroalgae residue was pyrolyzed at 300–700 °C with a heating rate of 20–40 °C/min. Yields of biochar, BCO, and gas of 62%, 25%, and 13% were obtained at a temperature of 700 °C and a heating rate of 20 °C/min. Biochar has a porous structure, a surface area exceeding 15 m2/g, and is dominated by amorphous silica of up to 13%. This silica‐rich biochar also contains Na and K, which hold potential benefits in agriculture, serving as soil ameliorants and playing a crucial role in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth. In the meantime, BCO contains 29.3% carboxylic acid group as the most important chemical component. Other than that, the biopyrolysis gas contains mainly CH4 and H2 (up to 24–32%), which can act as chemical building blocks. Finally, a simple business scenario of silica‐rich biochar production reveals that it has a specific cost of 0.37 US$/kg. It could be economically viable as a soil ameliorant or fertilizer. However, challenges persist in scaling up production to an industrial scale.
Antifungal medication use during early pregnancy and the risk of congenital heart defects in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study, 1997–2011
Authors: Papadopoulos Eleni A. , Howley Meredith M. , Fisher Sarah C. , Van Zutphen Alissa R. , Werler Martha M. , Romitti Paul A. , Browne Marilyn L. ,   for the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: February 2024

Background

Fungal infections are common among pregnant people. Recent studies suggest positive associations between oral antifungals used to treat fungal infections and congenital heart defects (CHDs).

Methods

We estimated associations between first trimester antifungal use and 20 major, specific CHDs using data from the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (NBDPS), a multi‐site, case–control study that included pregnancies with estimated delivery dates from October 1997 through December 2011. Infants with CHDs (“cases”) were ascertained from 10 birth defect surveillance programs. Live born infants without major birth defects (“controls”) were randomly selected from birth records or hospital discharge lists. First trimester antifungal use was self‐reported via maternal interview. We estimated adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using logistic regression with Firth's penalized likelihood.

Results

First trimester antifungal use was reported by 148/11,653 (1.3%) case and 123/11,427 (1.1%) control participants. We estimated AORs for 12 CHDs; six had AORs >1.5 (tetralogy of Fallot, double outlet right ventricle with transposition of the great arteries [DORV‐TGA], atrioventricular septal defect, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, pulmonary atresia, muscular ventricular septal defect), and one (pulmonary valve stenosis) had an AOR <0.7. All CIs included the null, except for DORV‐TGA.

Conclusions

First trimester antifungal use was rare. We observed some positive associations for several specific CHDs in our analysis, although the CIs largely included the null. Results do not support a large increase in risk, but smaller increases in risk for certain CHD cannot be ruled out.
A case‐control study characterizing polydactyly risk factors in Bogotá and Cali, Colombia between 2002 and 2020
Authors: Portilla‐Rojas Esteban , Ramírez Lina , Moreno Camilo , Lores Juliana , Sarmiento Karen , Zarante Ignacio
Published: February 2024

Background

Polydactyly is a congenital abnormality characterized by the presence of additional fingers on one or more extremities. In Colombia, polydactyly accounted for 17% of musculoskeletal congenital abnormalities in 2021, with a prevalence of 6.03 per 10,000 live births. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of polydactyly and identify associated risk factors in Bogotá and Cali, Colombia, from 2002 to 2020.

Methods

A retrospective case‐control study design was employed, analyzing data from birth defect reports provided by the Program for the Prevention and Follow‐up of Congenital Defects and Orphan Diseases surveillance system. Cases included live births or stillbirths with polydactyly, while controls consisted of infants without congenital abnormality, matched in terms of birth date and hospital. Prevalence of polydactyly was calculated and risk factors were assessed through odds ratios obtained by logistic regression models, considering a 95% confidence interval.

Results

Among the 558,255 births included in the study, 848 cases of polydactyly were identified, resulting in a prevalence rate of 15.19 per 10,000 live births. Risk factors associated with polydactyly included male newborn sex, pregestational diabetes, and a family history of malformation among first‐degree relatives.

Conclusion

These findings highlight the importance a surveillance system aimed to characterize populations with congenital abnormalities, providing a better option for analyzing risk factors, help improving prevention, diagnosis, notification, and optimal treatment in patients.
The evosystem: A centerpiece for evolutionary studies
Authors: Papale François , Not Fabrice , Bapteste Éric , Haraoui Louis‐Patrick
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we redefine the target of evolutionary explanations by proposing the “evosystem” as an alternative to populations, lineages and species. Evosystems account for changes in the distribution of heritable variation within individual Darwinian populations (evolution by natural selection, drift, or constructive neutral evolution), but also for changes in the networks of interactions within or between Darwinian populations and changes in the abiotic environment (whether these changes are caused by the organic entities or not). The evosystem can thereby become a centerpiece for a redefined evolutionary science, that is, evolutionary studies, that apprehends through a single framework the variety of evolutionary processes that lie at various scales. To illustrate the importance of this broadened perspective on evolution, we use a case of antimicrobial resistance evolution: the spread of the blaNDM gene family and the related resistance to carbapenem antibiotics observed globally, and show how evolutionary studies can contribute to answering contemporary socially relevant challenges.
Chemical profile and difference analysis of four parts of Strobilanthes sarcorrhiza by ultrafast flow liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry and multivariate statistical analysis
Authors: Tian Zheng , Zhang Yu , Wang Xin‐zhi , Cui Xiao‐bing , Li Wei , Tan Xian‐he , Chen Jia‐jia , Lin Hai‐zhong , Wen Hong‐mei
Published: February 2024

Strobilanthes sarcorrhiza (CTS) is a medicinal plant with various pharmacological effects such as tonifying kidney and anti‐inflammatory. However, the chemical composition and difference of its four parts (leaves, stems, rhizomes, and root tubers) have been rarely reported. In this study, ultrafast flow liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight MS was applied to analyze the chemical profile of CTS and identify 55 compounds, including terpenoids, phenylethanol glycosides, fatty acid derivatives, chain glycosides, flavonoid glycosides, and others. Among these compounds, 34 compounds were first identified in CTS. They were mainly terpenoids, phenylethanol glycosides, fatty acid derivatives, and so forth. Multivariate statistical analysis, such as principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least squares‐discriminant analysis were also used to evaluate the difference in chemical compounds from the four parts of CTS. The results showed that phenylethanol glycosides were the main compounds of the underground parts, while terpenoids were the main compounds of the aboveground parts. This study revealed the chemical diversity and similarity of CTS and suggested that the rhizomes could be used as an alternative medicinal part to improve the resource utilization of CTS.
Microlearning strategy in the promotion of motivation and learning outcomes in software project management
Authors: Gasca‐Hurtado Gloria P. , Morillo‐Puente Solbey , Gómez‐Álvarez María C.
Published: February 2024

In this research, a microlearning strategy for Software Engineering supported by a mobile application was designed and implemented. The goal is to evaluate the motivation and learning outcomes in the specific context of Software Project Management, with the Scrum framework, in participants of a Software Engineering course at a Latin American higher education institution. An empirical investigation was conducted using a quantitative approach, a quasi‐experimental design, and pretest–posttest measurements without a control group. A one‐sample t‐test for comparison of the means of a sample was used. Statistically significant differences were found between the theoretical and empirical mean of the variable motivation to learn in the specific context and the variable Stimulus for learning after interacting with the mobile application. The means were higher than the theoretical average of the scale, which suggests that the participants valued the mobile application positively. Regarding the learning outcomes of the Scrum framework, a paired sample t‐test for comparison of means revealed an increase in posttest scores, although this rise was not statistically significant. Microlearning can increase the participants' motivation and promote learning in the specific context of Software Project Management. The mobile application has the potential to support microlearning since the participants felt highly motivated and agreed that its use facilitates learning, a key aspect of success in a microlearning strategy.
Students should request accommodations from DS office rather than faculty
Authors: Masinter Michael R.
Published: February 2024

Faculty customarily decide whether to modify assignment deadlines and participation requirements based on a request from a student confronted with an emergency. However, when they do so in response to a student's request to accommodate a disability, they can put their institution at risk of violating Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. The recent court decision in Brown v. Trinity Washington University illustrates why institutions should adopt and publicize policies that direct students to present requests for disability‐related accommodations to a disability services office rather than to individual faculty, (No. 22‐1612 (Dist. D.C. 03/23/2023); see bit.ly/41PnJXc).
Take steps to keep student education records confidential while working remotely
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: February 2024

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act generally prohibits postsecondary institutions from disclosing personally identifiable information in a student's education record to a third party without consent. FERPA compliance can be especially challenging for college and university employees who work remotely, as off‐campus offices and networks may be less secure than those on campus. Likewise, when working virtually, individuals may not have stringent protocols for keeping education records and student data secure and avoiding inadvertent disclosures.
Downregulated circRNA_CDKN1A promotes gallbladder cancer progression through activation of the NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Hu Bin , Yang Hui , Wang Yan , Cao Yi , Zhou Rongping , Yang Dong
Published: February 2024

This study uncovered the potential clinical value and molecular driving mechanisms of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in gallbladder cancer (GBC). Differentially expressed circRNAs in GBC cells were screened by high‐throughput sequencing. CircRNA_CDKN1A (circBase ID: hsa_circ_0076194) was knocked out in BGC‐SD cells through transfection with sh‐circRNA_CDKN1A. Then, proliferation was investigated via CCK8 and EdU assays, apoptosis via flow cytometry, migration via wound healing assays, and invasion via Transwell assays. Bioinformatics analysis of circRNA_CDKN1A‐related signaling pathways was performed using MetScape and g:Profiler. Results showed that the knockdown of circRNA_CDKN1A enhanced the proliferation, migration, and invasion of GBC cells and inhibited apoptosis. In addition, knocking out circRNA_CDKN1A promoted GBC cell proliferation and enhanced the dry indices of the OCT4 protein and CD34 expression levels. The knockdown of circRNA_CDKN1A activated the epithelial–mesenchymal transition pathway. Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the biological role of circRNA_CDKN1A in GBC cells involved the NF‐κB pathway. LY2409881, which is an NF‐κB inhibitor, reversed the effects induced by the knockdown of circRNA_CDKN1A in GBC‐SD cells. In summary, the knockdown of circRNA_CDKN1A promoted the progression of GBC by activating the NF‐κB signaling pathway. For the first time, this study revealed the mechanism of circRNA_CDKN1A‐mediated regulatory action in GBC and identified the newly discovered circRNA_CDKN1A–NF‐κB signaling axis as a potentially important candidate for clinical therapy and prognostic diagnosis of GBC.