bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibiograms of Staphylococcus aureus as Microbial Carriage Via Shuttle Door Handles at University of Jos, Nigeria
Authors: Ehizojie Ikede Rex , Paulinus Ukpa Susan , Chongs Mantu Eno , Rachel Omagha , Oluwafemi Salami Matthew , Obioma Barnabas Favour , Joseph Nduke Suzana , Mandu Obogo Julia , Chima Amalu Paul , Chika Ezeama Juliet , Perpetua Oraekeyi Nkiruka , Jacob Abok Ajang , Akpadiaha Aniekan Enobong , Micheal Umoren Asian , Ofonmbuk Umoh , Osabonya Abdullahi Sadiya
Published: February 2025

Shuttle door handles as fomites are contributing to the spread of infections, by harboring and retaining pathogens for extended periods. The microbial transmission of infection via shuttle door handles constitutes a major threat to public health especially in the developing countries. This study was carried out to investigate the Antibiogram and microbial carriage on shuttle door handles of University of Jos Teaching Hospital. A total of 50 swab-samples were collected from the handles of university of Jos shuttle buses. Samples were collected by swabbing the handles of the shuttle buses with sterile cotton swab sticks moistened with sterile physiological saline water. The cotton swab-sticks were then immediately transferred to the laboratory within 15 minutes of collection for microbial analysis. Enumeration of the bacterial counts were carried out using pour plating technique while the bacteria isolates were identified using cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics. The antibiotics pattern of the bacteria indicated that all the bacteria isolated were sensitive to Cpx(93.3), Au(100), Gn(100), Pet(100), Lev(100), Ofx(76.9), Spx(33.9) Apx(8.3) while some are resistant to Sep(100), Apx(91.7), Spx(66.7), Ofx(31.3), and Cpx(6.7). Findings concluded that the campus shuttles door handles used in public transportation could also be serving as a means of transmission of both pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms which pose public health risks. Personal hygiene and sanitation such as hand washing and the use of antimicrobial wipe to clean the hands could serve as a means of reducing the incidence of microbial transmission.
The Use of the National Stressful Events Survey Acute Stress Disorder Short Scale (NSESSS) to Assess the Prevalence and Predictability of Acute Stress Disorder in Trauma Patients
Authors: Payas Shah, , Anuj Vij, , Ann Villa, Nicole , Eduardo Espiridion,
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) causes symptoms like distractibility, irritability, and emotional detachment, lasting three days to one month after a traumatic event. In 2021, about 40 million emergency department (ED) visits were recorded for acute injuries, highlighting the need for stress quantification. The National Stressful Events Survey Acute Stress Disorder Short Scale (NSESSS) measures ASD severity in adults following extreme stress, with scores ≥14 indicating severe symptoms. Few studies have examined the NSESSS for trauma patients. We aim to assess the NSESSS's effectiveness in understanding trauma's impact on patient well-being, identifying patient improvement, and improving outcomes.
Methods: This observational single-center study was conducted at a community hospital. Participants were at least 18 years old, arrived at the ED for acute injuries between January 2021 and December 2023, and consented to an ASD evaluation. Social workers administered the NSESSS upon hospital arrival, followed by a psychiatric evaluation within 48 hours. Patients were then reassessed by a psychiatrist with the NSESSS and DSM-5 criteria within seven days, with phone follow-ups for those discharged earlier. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.
Results: The study included 27 patients, 17 (63%) of whom were male, and 9 (27%) had pre-existing psychiatric comorbidities. The median age was 41 years (IQR 27-54), and the median NSESSS score was 6 (IQR 2-15). Among participants, 8 were true positives (NSESSS score ≥14 and met ASD DSM-5 criteria), 17 were true negatives (NSESSS score <14 and did not meet ASD DSM-5 criteria), and 2 were false negatives (NSESSS score <14 but met ASD DSM-5 criteria). There were no false positives.
Conclusion: The NSESSS demonstrated internal consistency and validity, emerging as a promising tool for assessing ASD severity and tracking treatment progress in trauma patients. Early recognition and intervention for ASD are crucial in mitigating long-term adverse outcomes, highlighting the need for further research to understand its impact on patient well-being.
Advancing Biodiversity Research in India through Cybertaxonomy and Artificial Intelligence: A Review
Authors: Kumar V. M. Sathish , Kumar Anil , Patel Manish C.
Published: February 2025

India is a country with diverse ecosystems, high endemism and rich biodiversity, it becomes the need of the hour to deploy large scale implementation of the most sophisticated technologies to capture and monitor the trends in biological diversity research. Traditional methods should be applied alongside these new methods especially when dealing with large data sets or when there is a problem with logistics may possibly due to the topography of the country, with its challenging and often inaccessible terrains, makes it difficult to conduct thorough manual surveys both periodically and seasonally on various taxa. A literature review on how ‘Cyber taxonomy’ and ‘Artificial Intelligence’ can be utilized to improve the documentation of the species diversity in the biodiverse regions in India for the conservation and management. The current developments in the machine learning and computer vision, as being revolutionary in the assessment of species diversity, richness and possible future research directions are presented in this article.
Effects of Trauma History among 2014-16 Ebola Virus Disease Epidemic Survivors Living in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Mandoh Sulaiman L , Bwititi Phillip T , Nwose Ezekiel U
Published: February 2025

Background: Trauma from previous experiences such as car accidents, robberies, knife attacks, wars, and other types of violence or witnessing the deaths could have exacerbated the experiences of the 2014-16 Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) Epidemic.
Objective: To study past trauma experiences among those West Africans who survived the 2014-16 EVD epidemic and now reside in Victoria - Australia.
Methods and Materials: A sequential exploratory mixed methods design utilised an online survey to collect quantitative and qualitative data that were followed by interviews. The quantitative survey adopted the Trauma History Screen tool and descriptive statistics. The qualitative interview followed thematic analysis using the five-phase model.
Results: Participants' age ranged between 18-40 years, 52% were females and 29/68 respondents were included in the analysis of traumatic experiences. Further,75% of respondents witnessed the sudden deaths of family and friends. They further, reported psychosocial symptoms including fear, stress, distress, depression, flashbacks, and altered sleep patterns in both infectious outbreaks.
Conclusion: This study provides data on previous experiences of traumatic events among EVD survivors that could have affected how they coped and dealt with the EVD epidemic. The psychosocial sequelae highlight the importance of continuous evaluation of the mental health of people with previous traumatic experiences. Findings from this study are useful in designing intervention programmes to mitigate these sequelae.
Human colon organoid differentiation from induced pluripotent stem cells using an improved method
Authors: Lee I‐Ting , Takahashi Yu , Sasaki Takashi , Yamauchi Yoshio , Sato Ryuichiro
Published: December 2024

The colonic epithelium plays a crucial role in gastrointestinal homeostasis, and colon organoids enable investigation into the molecular mechanisms underlying colonic physiology. However, the method for differentiating induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into human colon organoids (HCOs) is not necessarily standardized, and studies using HCOs are limited. This study refines the differentiation of HCOs by comparing two protocols reported in Cell Stem Cell and Nature Medicine journals. The former protocol, which uses transient bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2) signaling activation, demonstrated superior efficacy in upregulating colon‐specific markers. Additionally, adenovirus‐mediated transduction of the transcription factors HOXD13 or SATB2 during hindgut endoderm development, together with BMP2 treatment, enhanced colonic identity, suggesting improved colonic maturation. This optimized protocol advances the generation of mature HCOs, offering a better model for investigating colonic epithelial biology and pathology.
Automated daily dose accumulation workflow for treatment quality assurance during online adaptive radiotherapy with a 0.35T MR‐linac
Authors: Behzadipour Mojtaba , Ma Tianjun , Datsang Rabten K. , Lee Brandon , Pittock Dane , Weiss Elisabeth , Song William Y.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study assesses a novel, automated dose accumulation process during MR‐guided online adaptive radiotherapy (MRgART) for prostate cancer, focusing on inter‐fractional anatomical changes and discrepancies between delivered and planned doses.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on seven prostate cancer patients treated with a five‐fraction stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), using a 0.35T MRIdian MR‐LINAC system. Daily plans were adapted when dose thresholds were exceeded. Planning MRI (pMRI) and daily MRIs (dMRIs) were imported into MIM software for automated and manual dose accumulation procedures. Rigid and deformable image registrations were followed by dose accumulation to compare delivered and planned doses. Manual and automated image registrations were compared by calculating the Hausdorff distance (HD), Jaccard, and DICE metrics.

Results

Moderate discrepancies in dosimetric parameters for the planning target volume (PTV) were observed between auto‐accumulated and planned doses, such as and , with average differences of  Gy and  Gy, respectively. Volume differences of and indicated that auto‐accumulated doses consistently had lower numbers compared to planned doses, with mean discrepancies of and , respectively. Organs at risk (OAR) dosimetric parameters exhibited higher dose volumes in auto‐accumulated doses, with moderate differences (planned [cc] vs. auto‐accumulated [cc]) observed in parameters such as urethra PRV at , rectum at and rectum at . The comparison between manually and auto‐accumulated doses revealed negligible variations, as also indicated by strong concordance in geometric indices and t‐test p‐values above 0.7.

Conclusion

The automated workflow, developed in collaboration with MIM Software Inc., demonstrates high accuracy compared to manual accumulation. The moderate differences observed between planned and accumulated doses emphasize the need for accurate dose accumulation for adaptive plans.
Ternary Heterojunction ZnS‐ZnIn2S4‐In2S3 Efficiently Catalyzes Triethylamine to Enhance Electrochemiluminescence Imaging Signals
Authors: Chen Jingui , Jia Yue , Zhao Huaiqing , Wu Dan , Du Yu , Ren Xiang , Wei Qin
Published: December 2024

The visualization of electrode reactions is significant for ultra sensitive detection. Traditional electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection method can hardly visualize electrode reactions. Combining ECL imaging technology and traditional ECL detection methods can overcome the lack of visual feedback of key information in sensor construction. In contrast to cyclic voltammetry testing, applying a constant voltage to the electrode surface for ECL imaging results in a more stable signal. In this study, methionine‐stabilized gold nanoclusters (Met‐AuNCs) are used as efficient near‐infrared luminescent clusters, and triethylamine (TEA) as coreactants to construct an ECL imaging sensor for the detection of acetamiprid (ACT). The ternary heterojunction ZnS‐ZnIn2S4‐In2S3 (Z‐Z‐I) forms a stepwise electron transfer mode, facilitating the rapid generation of free radicals in TEA. Furthermore, Z‐Z‐I serves as a substrate, providing a large loading area for the DNA chain, which lays a foundation for the wide detection range. Such an ECL imaging sensor has a wide linear range (100 fm to 1 µm) and achieves a low detection limit (42 fM) for ACT detection. This study not only provides an efficient and accurate method for detecting ACT in agricultural products but also foretells the promising application of visual imaging technology in electrochemiluminescent sensors.
Silk Fibroin Hydrogel for Pulse Waveform Precise and Continuous Perception
Authors: Yan Yingmei , Deng Weijun , Xie Du , Hu Jing
Published: December 2024

Precise and continuous monitoring of blood pressure and cardiac function is of great importance for early diagnosis and timely treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The common tests rely on on‐site diagnosis and bulky equipments, hindering early diagnosis. The emerging hydrogels have gained considerable attention in skin bioelectronics by virtue of the similarities to biological tissues and versatility in mechanical, electrical, and biofunctional engineering. However, hydrogels should overcome intrinsic issues such as poor mechanical strength, easy dehydration and freezing, weak adhesiveness and self‐recovery, severely limiting their precision and reliability in practical applications. Here, silk fibroin hydrogels are developed as resistive sensors for pulse waveform monitoring. The silk fibroin hydrogel is simultaneously transparent, extremely stretchable, extra tough, adhesive, printable, and environmentally endurable. The silk fibroin hydrogel is also conductive with high sensitivity, short self‐healing time, highly repeatable and reliable response, meeting the requirements for wearable sensors for continuous monitoring. The sensors with silk fibroin hydrogel present high‐quality and stable waveforms of radical and brachial pulses with high precision and rich features, providing physiological signals of blood pressure and cardiac function. The sensors are promising for personalized health management, daily monitoring and timely diagnosis.
Rationally Engineering Pro‐Proteins and Membrane‐Penetrating α‑Helical Polypeptides for Genome Editing Toward Choroidal Neovascularization Treatment
Authors: Liu Xun , Zhao Ziyin , Li Wei , Ren Mengyao , Zhang Haoyu , Cao Desheng , Wang Yehan , Yang He , Li Yajie , Zhu Manhui , Xie Laiqing , Yin Lichen
Published: December 2024

Ribonucleoprotein (RNP)‐based CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing holds great potential for the treatment of choroidal neovascularization (CNV), which however, is challenged by the lack of efficient cytosolic protein delivery tools. Herein, reversibly‐phosphorylated pro‐proteins (P‐proteins) with conjugated adenosine triphosphate (ATP) tags are engineered and coupled with a membrane‐penetrating, guanidine‐enriched, α‐helical polypeptide (LGP) to mediate robust and universal cytosolic delivery. LGP forms salt‐stable nanocomplexes (NCs) with P‐proteins via electrostatic interaction and salt bridging, and the helix‐assisted, strong membrane activities of LGP enabled efficient cellular internalization and endolysosomal escape of NCs. Therefore, this approach allows efficient cytosolic delivery of a wide range of protein cargoes and maintains their bioactivities due to endolysosomal acidity‐triggered traceless restoration of P‐proteins. Notably, intravitreally delivered LGP/P‐RNP NCs targeting hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) induce pronounced gene disruption to downregulate pro‐angiogenic factors and alleviate subretinal fibrosis, ultimately provoking robust therapeutic efficacy in CNV mice. Such a facile and versatile platform provides a powerful tool for cytosolic protein delivery and genome editing, and it holds promising potential for the treatment of CNV‐associated diseases, such as age‐related macular degeneration.
Voltage‐Induced Bromide Redox Enables Capacity Restoration of Fast‐Charging Batteries
Authors: Zheng Mengting , Liu Tiefeng , Wu Jiawei , Tao Xinyong , Li Zeheng , Zhang Shanqing , Lu Jun
Published: December 2024

Fast‐charging lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are essential for electric vehicles (EVs) to compete with conventional gasoline ones in terms of charging viability, yet the aggressive capacity drop in fast‐charging scenarios gives rise to concerns regarding durability and sustainability. Herein, it is clarified that for fast‐charging batteries, the excessive lithium (Li) plating on graphite anode inevitably brings capacity fading, and the concurrent accumulation of Li2O‐dominant passivation species that form dead Li is the main reason for their poor rechargeability. To refresh the passivated graphite, a voltage‐induced activation mechanism is developed to leverage bromide (Br−/Br3−) redox couple for Li2O and isolated Li0 activation in situ. Along with a tiny amount of lithium bromide (LiBr) added into the electrolyte, the cut‐off voltage of activation processes is controlled to initiate and maximize the effectiveness of Br−/Br3− redox couple. The capacity of degraded fast‐charging cells can increase from lower than 30 to ≈118 mAh g−1 before and after the activation, respectively. Notably, the process is not one‐off; a subsequent activation is feasible. For the same battery that suffered from another round of fast charging, this design still restores the reversible capacity to ≈100 mAh g−1. Such a voltage‐mediated mechanism can effectively prolong the service life of practical fast‐charging batteries.
Two‐dimensional Nanosheets by Liquid Metal Exfoliation
Authors: Bai Yichao , Xu Youan , Sun Linxuan , Ward Zack , Wang Hongzhang , Ratnayake Gothamie , Wang Cong , Zhao Mingchuang , He Haoqi , Gao Jianxiang , Wu Menghan , Lu Sirong , Bepete George , Peng Deli , Liu Bilu , Kang Feiyu , Terrones Humberto , Terrones Mauricio , Lei Yu
Published: December 2024

Liquid exfoliation is a scalable and effective method for synthesizing 2D nanosheets (NSs) but often induces contamination and defects. Here, liquid metal gallium (Ga) is used to exfoliate bulk layered materials into 2D NSs at near room temperature, utilizing the liquid surface tension and Ga intercalation to disrupt Van der Waals (vdW) forces. In addition, the process can transform the 2H‐phase of transition metal dichalcogenides into the 1T’‐phase under ambient conditions. This method produces high aspect ratio, surfactant‐free 2D‐NSs for more than 10 types of 2D materials that include h‐BN, graphene, MoTe2, MoSe2, layered minerals, etc. The subsequent Ga separation via ethanol dispersion avoids the formation of additional defects and surfactant contamination. By adjusting initial defect levels of the layered materials, customize the metallicity and/or defectiveness of 2D NSs can be customized for applications such as birefringence‐tunable modulators with exfoliated h‐BN, and enhanced hydrogen evolution with defective MoS2. This approach offers a strategy to optimize liquid metal/2D interfaces, preserving intrinsic properties and enabling practical applications, potentially transforming optics, energy conversion, and beyond.
Dual Molten Salt Synthesis of Oxygen Rich Hierarchical Porous Carbon as Cathode Materials for Zinc‐Ion Hybrid Capacitor
Authors: Zhang Xinyang , Ni Jun , Chen Weijian , Xu Hui , Qiao Longfei , Lu Rui , Wu Xiaoliang
Published: December 2024

Hierarchical porous carbon exhibits great potential as the cathode materials for zinc ion hybrid capacitor. Herein, a convenient and novel strategy is reported to prepare oxygen rich hierarchical porous carbon derived from alginate by dual molten salt strategy using KHCO3 and NaHCO3 as activators. The obtained oxygen rich hierarchical porous carbon (OPC‐700) possesses a well‐developed interconnected porous skeleton, large specific surface area (1193.6 m2 g−1), and abundant oxygen functional groups. Owing to the co‐effect, the prepared electrode shows a specific capacity of 410.7 F g−1 and superior electrochemical stabilization. More importantly, the Zn// ZnSO4//OPC‐700 hybrid capacitor assembled with OPC‐700 as the cathode, zinc foil as the anode delivers an energy density of 124.5 Wh kg−1 and superior electrochemical stabilization in 2 m ZnSO4.
Efficient Photolysis of Multidrug‐Resistant Polymicrobial Biofilms
Authors: Li Yongli , Dong Yan , Zhang ZhengKun , Lin Zuan‐tao , Liang Chen , Wu Mei X.
Published: December 2024

Chronic wounds are prone to infections with multidrug‐resistant bacteria, forming polymicrobial biofilms that limit treatment options and increase the risk of severe complications. Current cleansing options are insufficient to disrupt and remove tenacious biofilms; antibiotic treatments, on the other hand, often fall short against these biofilm‐embedded bacteria. This study explores an non‐antibiotic approach that extends beyond conventional porphyrin‐based phototherapy by using blue light (BL) in conjunction with ferric ions (Fe(III)) to disrupt and eradicate biofilms. The dual not only degraded biofilm extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) in mono‐species and polymicrobial biofilms by specifically targeting carboxyl‐containing polysaccharides within the matrix but also exhibited broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity by affecting key components of the outer membrane and cell wall. Bacteria, such as K. pneumoniae, with compromised EPS after photolysis, demonstrated increased susceptibility to macrophage phagocytosis. Disruption of the polymicrobial biofilm structure also enhanced the bacterial susceptibility to bactericidal drugs. Treating wounds infected by mixed‐species biofilm in diabetic mice demonstrated a substantial reduction in bacterial colonization and improved tissue repair. The BL‐Fe(III) modality offers a safe, efficient alternative for managing chronic wound infections, making it ideal for repeated, non‐invasive use at home, especially in resource‐limited areas.
Fabrication of Polydopamine‐Coated High‐Entropy MXene Nanosheets for Targeted Photothermal Anticancer Therapy
Authors: Zou Qingshuang , Qiu Ailin , He Yan , Xue Evelyn Y. , Wang Lujie , Yang Gun , Shen Yao , Luo Dixian , Liu Quan , Ng Dennis K. P.
Published: December 2024

Transition metal carbides, nitrides, and carbonitrides (MXenes) have emerged as a promising class of 2D materials that can be used for various applications. Recently, a new form of high‐entropy MXenes has been reported, which contains an increased number of elemental species that can increase the configurational entropy and reduce the Gibbs free energy. The unique structure and composition lead to a range of intriguing and tunable characteristics. Herein, the fabrication of high‐entropy MXene TiVNbMoC3Tx (T = surface terminations) with a layer of polydopamine is reported, followed by immobilization of a phthalocyanine‐based fluorophore for imaging and the peptide sequence QRHKPREGGGSC for targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) overexpressed in cancer cells. The resulting nanocomposite exhibits high biocompatibility and superior photothermal property. Upon laser irradiation at 808 nm, the light‐to‐heat conversion efficiency is up to 56.1%, which is significantly higher than that of conventional 2D materials. In vitro studies show that these nanosheets could be internalized selectively into EGFR‐positive cancer cells and effectively eliminate these cells mainly through photothermal‐induced apoptosis. Using 4T1 tumor‐bearing mice as an animal model, the nanosheets could accumulate at the tumor and effectively eradicate the tumor upon laser irradiation without causing noticeable adverse effects to the mice.
Enzyme‐Responsive Nanoparachute for Targeted miRNA Delivery: A Protective Strategy Against Acute Liver and Kidney Injury
Authors: Li Songhang , Zhao Yuxuan , Lyu Xiaoying , Chen Ye , Zhang Tao , Lin Shiyu , Liu Zhiqiang , Cai Xiaoxiao , Tian Taoran , Lin Yunfeng
Published: December 2024

MicroRNA (miRNA)‐based therapy holds significant potential; however, its structural limitations pose a challenge to the full exploitation of its biomedical functionality. Framework nucleic acids are promising owing to their transportability, biocompatibility, and functional editability. MiRNA‐125 is embedded into a nucleic acid framework to create an enzyme‐responsive nanoparachute (NP), enhancing the miRNA loading capacity while preserving the attributes of small‐scale framework nucleic acids and circumventing the uncertainty related to RNA exposure in conventional loading methods. An enzyme‐sensitive sequence is designed in NP as a bioswitchable apparatus for cargo miRNAs release. NP is compared with conventional delivery modes and delivery vehicles, confirming its excellent transportability and sustained release properties. Moreover, NP confers good enzyme and serum resistance to the cargo miRNAs. Simultaneously, it can easily deliver miRNA‐125 to liver and kidney lesions owing to its passive targeting properties. This allows for Keap1/Nrf2 pathway regulation and p53 protein targeting in the affected tissues. Additionally, NP negatively regulates the expression of Bax and Caspase‐3. These combined actions help to inhibit oxidation, prevent cell cycle arrest, and reduce the apoptosis of liver and kidney cells. Consequently, this strategy offers a potential treatment for acute liver and kidney injury.
PD‐1‐Enhanced Treg Cell Senescence in Advanced Maternal Age
Authors: Gong Guang‐Shun , Zhang Yu‐Jing , Hu Xiao‐Hui , Lin Xin‐Xiu , Liao Ai‐Hua
Published: December 2024

Senescence occurs earlier in the immune system than in solid organs as age increases. Regulatory T (Treg) cells are among the first cells to exhibit signs of aging. However, whether advanced‐age pregnancy involves Treg cell aging remains unclear. This study demonstrated that the aging of women is accompanied by aging Treg cells and that PD‐1 regulates Treg cell aging. The transfer of young Treg cells can improve the pregnancy outcomes of reproductive‐aged mice by reducing the level of IFN‐γ, a proinflammatory cytokine secreted by Treg cells in aged mice. Transferring α‐PD‐1 mAb‐treated aged Treg cells increases the level of IL‐10, an anti‐inflammatory cytokine secreted by Treg cells in reproductive‐aged mice. Collectively, these findings suggest a potential therapeutic strategy for preventing adverse pregnancy outcomes in older women.
Mapping Reaction Mechanism During Overcharge of a LiNiO2/Graphite–Silicon Lithium‐Ion Battery: A Correlative Operando Approach by Simultaneous Gas Analysis and Synchrotron Scattering Techniques
Authors: Jacquet Quentin , Profatilova Irina , Baggetto Loïc , Alrifai Bouthayna , Addes Elisabeth , Chassagne Paul , Blanc Nils , Tardif Samuel , Daniel Lise , Lyonnard Sandrine
Published: December 2024

Li‐ion battery degradation processes are multi‐scale, heterogeneous, dynamic, and depend on the battery usage. Degradation mechanisms during overcharge of LiNiO2 are well known at the material level featuring O2 gas release and concomitant surface reconstruction of LiNiO2. However, there are still debates regarding the role of the high voltage phase formation, so called O1, on gas production. Moreover, little information is available on the effect of produced gases on the cell components (anode or sensors), or the effect of overcharge on electrode level behavior. In this work, we simultaneously measure the gas evolution using operando mass spectrometry while spatially resolving nanostructure and crystallographic lattice parameter changes using operando micro small/wide angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS/WAXS) mapping during the formation and overcharge of a LiNiO2/Graphite─Silicon pouch cell. This new correlated operando characterization experiment allowed to (1) confirm the absence of O1 phase even with substantial gas produced at end of charge, (2) unveil the effect of gases on reference electrode and (3) show that overcharge increases in‐plane reaction heterogeneities by creating local degraded regions lagging behind the ensemble electrochemistry. These findings will be important to optimize ageing of devices based on similar chemistries, in particular Ni‐rich cathodes, while showing the strength of correlated characterization leading to more efficient and robust information on complex mechanisms.
Steric Engineering of Exciton Fine Structure in 2D Perovskites
Authors: Dyksik Mateusz , Baranowski Michal , Thompson Joshua J. P. , Yang Zhuo , Medina Martha Rivera , Loi Maria Antonietta , Malic Ermin , Plochocka Paulina
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive study of excitonic properties of 2D layered perovskites is provided, with an emphasis on understanding and controlling the exciton fine structure. First, an overview of the optical properties is presented, discussing the challenges in determining the bandgap and exciton binding energies. Through magneto‐optical spectroscopic measurements (up to B = 140 T), scaling laws are established for exciton binding energy as a function of the band gap and the diamagnetic coefficient. Using an in‐plane magnetic field, the exciton fine structure for various 2D perovskites is examined to measure the energy splitting between the excitonic levels. The exciton fine structure and exchange interaction are correlated with structural parameters, employing an effective mass model, to highlight the role of steric effect on the exchange interaction. These findings reveal that lattice distortions, introduced by organic spacers, significantly influence the exchange interaction, driving a tunable energy spacing between dark and bright excitons. This unique feature of 2D perovskites, not present in other semiconductors, offers a novel tuning mechanism for exciton control, making these materials highly promising for efficient light emitters and advanced quantum technologies.
Untersuchung der Adressierbarkeit des Cysteinoms der Proteinkinasen durch Kovalente Fragmente
Authors: Wang Guiqun , Seidler Nico J. , Röhm Sandra , Pan Yufeng , Liang Xiaojun Julia , Haarer Lisa , Berger Benedict‐Tilman , Sivashanmugam Saran Aswathaman , Wydra Valentin R. , Forster Michael , Laufer Stefan A. , Chaikuad Apirat , Gehringer Matthias , Knapp Stefan
Published: December 2024

Proteinkinasen sind wichtige Zielstrukturen für Arzneistoffe, jedoch wurden bisher nur für einen Bruchteil der mehr als 500 menschlichen Kinasen spezifische Hemmstoffe entwickelt. Eine große Herausforderung bei der Entwicklung von Inhibitoren für eng verwandte Kinasen ist die Selektivität. Im Gegensatz zu ihren nicht kovalenten Gegenstücken bieten kovalente Inhibitoren hierbei den Vorteil, dass sie selektiv auf strukturell ähnliche Kinasen abzielen können, indem sie spezifische Proteinseitenketten, insbesondere nicht konservierte Cysteine, modifizieren. Bisherige kovalente Fragment‐Screens ergaben potente und selektive Verbindungen für einzelne Kinasen wie ERK1/2, jedoch wurde dieser Ansatz noch nicht auf einen breiteren Teil des Kinoms angewendet. Darüber hinaus wurden viele der potenziell zugänglichen Cysteinpositionen bisher noch nicht adressiert. Mit dieser Arbeit stellen wir einen allgemein anwendbaren Ansatz vor, um die Adressierbarkeit von Cysteinen in der Nähe der ATP‐Bindetasche mit fragmentartigen kovalenten Inhibitoren zu untersuchen. Wir präsentieren die Entwicklung einer auf Kinasen fokussierten Fragmentbibliothek und ihr systematisches Screening gegen eine kuratierte Auswahl von 47 Kinasen mit 60 Cysteinen in der Nähe der ATP‐Bindestellte. Dazu wurden LC/MS‐ und Differential Scanning Fluorimetry (DSF)‐Assays verwendet, gefolgt von einer Hit‐Validierung durch verschiedene ergänzende Techniken. Unsere Ergebnisse erweitern das Repertoire an adressierbaren Cysteinen in der Enzymfamilie der Proteinkinasen, geben Einblick in einzigartige Bindungsmodi, die anhand von Kristallstrukturen identifiziert wurden und liefern isoformspezifische Hit‐Moleküle mit vielversprechenden Profilen als Ausgangspunkte für die Entwicklung hochwirksamer und selektiver kovalenter Hemmstoffe.
Optimizing the Power Performance of Lithium‐Ion Batteries: The Role of Separator Porosity and Electrode Mass Loading
Authors: Choi Seungyeop , Seo Jun Pyo , Lim Jaejin , Dzakpasu Cyril Bubu , Roh Youngjoon , Bak Cheol , Kim Suhwan , Lee Hongkyung , Lee Yong Min
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the concealed effect of separator porosity on the electrochemical performance of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) in thin and thick electrode configuration. The effect of the separator is expected to be more pronounced in cells with thin electrodes due to its high volumetric/resistance ratio within the cell. However, the electrochemical analyses show similar power performance regardless of the separator porosity in the thin electrode configuration. In contrast, for cells with thick electrodes, separator porosity significantly impacts the direct current‐internal resistance (DC‐IR) and the capacity retention at a high rate. This behavior is attributed to ion concentration gradients in the upper regions of thick electrodes, while Li+ transfer to lower regions is hampered as the electrode thickness increases. These findings suggest that the intrinsic properties of individual cell components, such as separator porosity, are highly dependent on the overall cell design. Moreover, while high‐porosity separators enhance power performance, particularly in thick electrode configurations, they exhibit lower thermal stability and tensile strength. In conclusion, this study highlights the need for an integrated approach to optimizing separator characteristics, considering both electrochemical performance and safety trade‐offs in LIBs.
Boc‐Protected Phenylalanine and Tryptophan‐Based Dipeptides: A Broad Spectrum Anti‐Bacterial Agent
Authors: Halder Arpita , Pasupuleti Ravikumar , Sivagnanam Subramaniyam , Das Priyadip , Mukherjee Oindrilla
Published: December 2024

Dipeptides were constructed using hydrophobic amino acid residues following AMP prediction. After that Boc‐modification was performed on the screened peptides and finally Boc‐Phe‐Trp‐OMe and Boc‐Trp‐Trp‐OMe were synthesized. Even though no inhibition zones were observed in agar well diffusion assays, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) analysis revealed anti‐bacterial activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria, with MIC90 ranging from 230 to 400 μg/mL. The crystal violet assay confirmed the dipeptides' biofilm eradication and disruption capabilities. Furthermore, membrane permeabilization assays indicated outer and inner membrane permeabilization, while SEM analysis revealed the formation of fibril and spherical nanostructures, likely contributing to this effect. The peptides also exhibited resistance to protein adsorption, non‐cytotoxicity, and non‐hemolytic properties, making them promising broad‐spectrum anti‐bacterial agents with biofilm eradication and disruption potential. This study concludes that Boc‐protected phenylalanine‐ and tryptophan‐based dipeptides can self‐assemble and can be used as broad‐spectrum anti‐bacterial agents. The self‐assembly of these peptides offers a versatile platform for designing biomaterials with tailored properties and functionalities. Research exploring the anti‐bacterial potential of Boc‐protected dipeptides has been limited, prompting our investigation to shed light on this overlooked area. Our analysis of synthesized Boc‐protected dipeptides revealed notable anti‐bacterial activity, marking a significant advancement. This finding suggests that these dipeptides could emerge as potent, broad‐spectrum anti‐bacterial agents, addressing the urgent need for effective treatments against bacterial resistance and opening new avenues in therapy. This study not only enhances our understanding of these dipeptides but also highlights their potential as innovative and efficacious anti‐bacterial agents, making a substantial impact in the clinical field.
Comparison of machine learning models for classifying edible oils using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Lim Hyeona , Lee Seon Yeong , Kim Jin Young , Shin Yeon Ju , Jang Yerin , Kim Hyeonjin , Kim Byung Hee , Ahn Sangdoo
Published: December 2024

Accurate classification and authentication of edible oils are essential for maintaining product quality, ensuring consumer safety, and preserving market integrity. Therefore, this study aims to propose Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, combined with advanced machine learning models, as a rapid and non‐destructive technique for classifying edible oils. The FT‐IR spectra of seven edible oil types were analyzed across three spectral regions: the full range, the C‐H stretching range, and the fingerprint region. Both absorbance and second derivative spectra were used to evaluate the influence of spectral preprocessing on classification accuracy. Six machine learning models—principal component analysis followed by linear discriminant analysis (PCA‐LDA), k‐nearest neighbors, decision tree, random forest, eXtreme Gradient Boosting, and support vector machines (SVM)—were employed to classify the oils, achieving training accuracies of 96.4%–100% and testing accuracies of 88.1%–100%. The second derivative spectra enhanced model performance by improving the resolution of overlapping peaks, particularly in the CH and CO stretching regions. Additionally, the SHapley Additive exPlanations analysis further revealed the most critical spectral features influencing model predictions, offering valuable insights into the decision‐making processes. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining FT‐IR spectroscopy, second derivative preprocessing, and machine learning techniques for classifying edible oils. The findings highlight the benefits of second derivative spectra in enhancing spectral resolution and the superior classification performance of PCA‐LDA and SVM models. These results offer a robust framework for advancing edible oil analysis and emphasize the potential of artificial intelligence in food authentication and quality control.
The Reputation Effect of Repeated Green‐Bond Issuance and Its Impact on the Cost of Capital
Authors: Petreski Aleksandar , Schäfer Dorothea , Stephan Andreas
Published: December 2024

This study explores the effect of frequent green‐bond issuance on a firm's financing costs. Using a sample of listed Swedish real estate companies issuing a total of 1074 bonds over the period from 2011 to 2021, difference‐in‐differences analyses and instrumental variable estimations are applied to identify the causal impact of frequent green‐bond vis‐à‐vis frequent non‐green‐bond issuance on a firm's cost of capital and credit rating. The paper argues that repetitive issuance lowers a firm's cost of capital, while the effects of first or one‐time green‐bond issuance are the opposite. In line with the reputation capital hypothesis, issuing green bonds even lowers the firm's cost of equity capital, while issuing non‐green bonds does not affect the cost of equity.
Improving CO2 Fixation with Epoxides by Replacing Zirconium by Hafnium in UiO66 MOFs
Authors: Nataj Seyedeh Molood Masoom , Ouellet Kaylee , Kaliaguine Serge , Fontaine Frédéric‐Georges
Published: December 2024

The impact of replacing Zr4+ with Hf⁴⁺ as the metal site on CO₂ adsorption and catalytic activity in CO₂ fixation reaction with epoxide under mild conditions was investigated in UiO66‐NH₂ grafted with carbodiimides N,N′‐dicyclohexylcarbodiimide (DCC) and N,N′‐diisopropylcarbodiimide (DIC) (UiO66(M)‐DCCBr and UiO66(M)‐DICBr; M = Zr and Hf). Leveraging on Hf⁴⁺’s greater oxophilicity and stronger M—O bonds, Hf‐based UiO66‐NH2 materials exhibited increased CO₂ adsorption capacity, influencing the catalytic performance in CO₂ fixation with epoxides. The materials were characterized by multiple techniques such as PXRD, FTIR, TGA, SEM, elemental analysis, as well as N₂ and CO₂ adsorption equilibrium measurements. UiO66(Hf)‐DCCBr and UiO66(Hf)‐DICBr demonstrated superior activity compared to their Zr‐based counterparts with high yield and TOF (14.6 and 11.9 h⁻¹, respectively) under milder conditions (0.1 MPa, 90 °C, 16 h, co‐catalyst‐free and solvent‐free). These findings underscore the pivotal role of unsaturated metal sites in enhancing the catalytic efficacy of guanidinium ionic UiO66‐NH₂ materials. Moreover, these catalysts exhibit excellent thermal stability and can be recycled and reused at least five times without a noticeable reduction in their catalytic efficiency.
Investigational Use of Real‐World Data as a Hybrid Control in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma from the Randomized Phase Ib/II MORPHEUS Trial
Authors: Ko Andrew H. , Oh Do‐Youn , Lau Janet , Mhatre Shivani K. , Ci Bo , Machado Robson , Li Shi , Bretscher Michael T. , Reyes‐Rivera Irmarie , Zhu Jiawen , Zhang Xiaosong , Patel Jilpa , Psioda Matthew A. , Ponz‐Sarvise Mariano
Published: December 2024

Enrolling adequate numbers of patients into the control arm of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) often presents barriers. There is interest in leveraging real‐world data (RWD) from electronic health records (EHRs) to construct external control (EC) arms to supplement RCT control arms and form hybrid control (HC) arms. This investigation showed the use of an HC arm in second‐line metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). The RCT experimental arm (atezolizumab + PEGylated recombinant human hyaluronidase (Atezo + PEGPH20)) was compared with an HC arm consisting of patients treated with modified FOLFOX6 or gemcitabine/nab‐paclitaxel from the MORPHEUS PDAC internal control arm supplemented with data from a nationwide EHR‐derived de‐identified database as the EC arm. The EC arm was constructed by applying key inclusion/exclusion criteria from the MORPHEUS PDAC trial to patients from the real‐world cohort. Baseline variables were balanced using propensity score matching and covariate adjustment. Three analysis approaches—Cox model with pooled‐control data, Cox model with control arm‐specific frailty, and Bayesian analysis using a commensurate prior—were assessed. Overall survival was similar between the treatment arms. The direction and magnitude of hazard ratios (HRs) from the multiple HC analyses (HRs ranged from 1.02 to 1.06) were comparable with the reported trial HR (HR 0.91; 95% CI: 0.56, 1.49). This analysis demonstrates the feasibility and applicability of leveraging RWD in clinical trial design to supplement clinical trial control arms.
Atezolizumab, bevacizumab, pemetrexed and platinum for EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients after EGFR TKI failure: A phase II study with immune cell profile analysis
Authors: Wu Shang‐Gin , Ho Chao‐Chi , Yang James Chih‐Hsin , Yu Shu‐Han , Lin Yen‐Feng , Lin Shu‐Chin , Liao Bin‐Chi , Yang Ching‐Yao , Lin Yen‐Ting , Yu Chong‐Jen , Chuang Ya‐Ting , Liao Wei‐Yu , Yap Kah Yi , Kou Weng Si , Shih Jin‐Yuan
Published: December 2024

Background

Acquired resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR TKIs) remains a significant hurdle for patients with EGFR‐mutated non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), particularly those lacking the EGFRT790M. IMpower 150 study demonstrated promising efficacy for a combination of immune‐chemotherapy and bevacizumab in patients with EGFR‐mutated NSCLC.

Methods

This open‐label, single‐arm, phase II trial evaluated the efficacy and immune cell profile of the modified regimen combining atezolizumab, bevacizumab (7.5 mg/kg) and chemotherapy in patients with EGFR‐mutated NSCLC following TKI failure. The primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR). The re‐biopsy tissue specimens and serial peripheral blood samples were collected to analyse the immune cell profile and tumour microenvironments.

Rresults

22 EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients participated in this study. The ORR was 42.9%, with a disease control rate (DCR) of 100%. Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 6.3 months. Patients with programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression ≥1% exhibited significantly higher ORR (75 vs. 23.1%; p = .032) and longer PFS (14.0 vs. 6.1 months; p = .022) compared with those with PD‐L1 expression < 1%. Grade ≥ 3 adverse events occurred in 40.9% of patients. Higher peritumour nature killer (NK) cell infiltration and lower peripheral helper T cell counts before treatment were associated with favourable ORR and longer PFS, respectively. After disease progression, the proportion of S100A9+ myelod‐derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) increased, while regulatory T cells decreased.

Conclusion

This modified combination regimen may be a promising therapeutic option for EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients with TKI resistance, especially those with PD‐L1‐positive tumours. Furthermore, immune cell profiling may aid in identifying patients who may benefit from this approach.

Key points

The combination regimen yielded promising efficacy in NSCLC patients after EGFR‐TKI resistance, particularly those with PD‐L1‐positive tumours.

Higher peritumour NK cell and lower peripheral helper T cell were associated with favourable ORR and longer PFS, respectively.

After disease progression, the proportion of S100A9+ MDSC increased, but Treg cells decreased.
Upper gastrointestinal triple stenosis in a patient with trisomy 17p syndrome: Case report and literature review
Authors: Ando Hiroko , Mori Hideki , Takabayashi Kaoru , Matsuura Noriko , Masaoka Tatsuhiro , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Saito Yoshimasa , Kato Motohiko , Kosaki Kenjiro , Kanai Takanori
Published: December 2024

Upper gastrointestinal stenosis, which can be congenital or acquired, can lead to dysphagia. The association between trisomy 17p syndrome, a rare chromosomal abnormality, and upper gastrointestinal stenosis is unclear. A 20‐year‐old man diagnosed with trisomy 17p syndrome was referred to our department due to recurrent vomiting. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy revealed stenotic areas in the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The congenital gastrointestinal stenosis present in both the duodenum and esophagus suggested that the stasis and reflux of digestive fluids exacerbated stenosis in the stomach and esophagus. Gastric acid suppression therapy and endoscopic dilation of the esophagus and duodenum effectively resolved the patient's vomiting symptoms.
Detection of Oral Testosterone Undecanoate Administration in UGT2B17 del/del and del/ins Individuals. Part I: Urinary Steroid Profile and IRMS Markers
Authors: Coll Sergi , Shiomura Sho , Alechaga Élida , Bressan Claudia , Monfort Núria , Ventura Rosa , Okano Masato
Published: December 2024

The detection of endogenous anabolic androgenic steroids misuse in Asian population using the Steroidal Module of the Athlete Biological Passport (ABP) is a challenge due to the high prevalence of UGT2B17 gene deletion polymorphism and low levels of testosterone (T) glucuronide. In this study, the capabilities of different approaches based on urine analysis for detecting oral T undecanoate administration were evaluated in 13 Asian volunteers, including 11 subjects with del/del genotype and 2 subjects with del/ins genotype. In this part of the work, the effect on the urinary steroid profile (SP) and the isotope ratio mass spectrometry (IRMS) markers were studied. Results showed that the 5α‐androstane‐3α,17β‐diol/epitestosterone ratio is the most sensitive marker of the SP to detect oral T administration in Asian volunteers. All urines that led to suspicious urinary SP were concluded IRMS positive. However, for some subjects, the ABP Steroidal Module was unable to identify suspicious samples that were still detectable by IRMS. Positive IRMS samples were detected up to 24 h (n = 9), 36 h (n = 3), or 48 h (n = 1) after oral administration. Overall, the urinary SP together with IRMS allowed the detection of T administration in Asian volunteers. However, the detection windows are short, as reported for oral T administration in Caucasian volunteers. These findings highlight the need of implementing additional markers in the Steroidal Module of ABP that could enlarge detection windows.