bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acral Acanthosis Nigricans with Concurrent Vitamin B12 Deficiency in an Indian Patient: An Atypical Presentation
Authors: Sethi Pihu , Maheshwari Kriti , Bahadur Shalini , Kalhan Shivani
Published: June 2023

Acanthosis Nigricans (AN) is characterised by velvety, papillomatous, brownish-black, hyperkeratotic plaques, typically on the intertriginous areas and neck. It is more commonly seen in the African American descent, rarely occurs in the Indian population. The present case includes 28-year-old male, who presented to the Outpatient Department with asymptomatic hyperpigmention over skin of both feet and knuckles of both hands since three months. The distribution pattern over the knuckles was suggestive of vitamin B12 deficiency however the atypical distribution over the feet leads to suspicion of a differential diagnosis of lichen planopigmentosus, vitamin B12 deficiency and acral AN. Dermoscopy was done to aid in the diagnosis and revealed linear crista cutis and sulcus cutis which are features suggestive of AN. On investigation, serum vitamin B12 levels were below 100 µg/mL and histologic sections showed hyperkeratosis with papillomatosis and mild acanthosis. The patient was treated solely with 1500 mcg mecobalamine daily for 10 days and followed-up. The dermoscopic and histopathological findings were consistent with the diagnosis of acral AN and thus a final diagnosis of acral AN superimposed with vitamin B12 deficiency was made. This case is being reported due to its rare occurrence in the Indian population, the atypical clinical presentation of AN in form of macules and to highlight dermoscopy as an essential non invasive tool aiding in the diagnosis. The diagnosis of acral AN should not be overlooked despite the finding of low serum vitamin B12 levels in such a case and the authors wish to create awareness among the clinicians to investigate the patient further.
Literature Review on Morphology and Morphometry of Foramen Ovale in Indian Skulls
Authors: Subramanian Manickam , Janani Yoganandham , Kumar Jyothi Ashok , Arathi Senthiappan Mariappan
Published: June 2023

Foramen ovale is seen in the base of the skull connecting the infratemporal fossa and middle cranial fossa. Knowledge of the exact location and dimensions of foramen ovale is essential for trigeminal rhizotomy, electroencephalogram of the temporal lobe and endonasal endoscopic trans-sphenoidal approach to the infratemporal fossa. In this literature review, articles reporting morphology, morphometry, and variations of foramen ovale in Indian skulls from standard databases between 1979 and 2022 were selected. The sample size ranged between 20 and 250 skulls. The common shape observed was oval (96.9%) and duplication of foramen ovale was seen commonly on the right-side. The presence of accessory bony structures, namely spine, tubercle, spur, septa and bar was reported but was difficult to compare due to a lack of uniform classification. The length, breadth, and area of foramen ovale ranged from 5.0-8.9 mm, 3.1-6.0 mm, and 19.1-34.2 mm2 , respectively. In the majority of the studies, no significant difference was observed in these parameters between the sides and between the sexes. These data will be useful while attempting surgical or invasive procedures in the skull base of Indian subjects and help to avoid damage to the structures passing through the foramen ovale and the resulting complications.
Systemic Assessment of Fabricated Injury in Sexual Assault Cases: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tripathi Sachin Kumar , Choudhary Richa , Singh Rajiv Ratan , Yadav Pradeep Kumar
Published: June 2023

Sexual assault on females may ruin the entire life of the victim. Victims of such incidents rarely get support from any quarters of society, including their family members. On the other hand, men can be made the victim of such heinous crimes by false accusations by women for various motives. As most of the judgments on sexual assault cases are based on circumstantial history, and oral evidence, it may be very hard to disprove the allegation. According to the figures from National Crime Records Bureau’s (NCRB) crime in India report 2020, less than 8% of all cases under investigation for rape were found to be false. In 2014, the Delhi commission for women submitted a report stating that, 53.2% of rape cases registered between April 2013- July 2014 was false. In India, the threat of false rape cases on one pretext or the other is increasing since the new amendment to the rape law in 2013. This fact is evident from the study of court judgments and media reports. In most false sexual assault cases, the victim took advantage of a fabricated injury to strengthen the case. There are various motives behind fabricating injury to register false sexual assault cases some of which are, to bring a charge of rape, heartbreak, anger, or some other mala fide motive induces a woman to file a false rape case majority, some women just do it to seek the attention of the media and have publicity, to defame others, to gain a large sum of money by a false allegation and to obtain compensation from the Government, In most cases, it is also found that to cover up first sexual intercourse women falsely accuse their partner of sexual assault. Various studies of disguised injuries in assault incidents showed that, the limbs, neck, and chest are the most favoured sites for disguised injuries.
Assessment of the Effectiveness of Kinetic Chain Approach for Primary Adhesive Capsulitis of ShoulderAn Experimental Study
Authors: Raghav Deepak , Pandian Prabhu Ram Krishna , Dwivedi Amit
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Idiopathic adhesive capsulitis is characterised by gradual onset of pain in shoulder and its limited mobility of motion due to a thickened capsule with an unknown cause. The peak incidence rate is between the ages of 40 and 60 years with less chances of occurrence in the younger group and individuals, who engage in physical labour are far less likely to experience it. In order to determine whether the kinetic chain approach is more effective, researchers tested it on individuals with adhesive capsulitis. Aim: To assess effectiveness of the kinetic chain approach for treating primary adhesive capsulitis. Materials and Methods: This pre and postexperimental study was conducted at the Department of Physiotherapy, Santosh Medical College and Hospital, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, for a period of one year from January 2020 to December 2020. A total of 60 patients with primary adhesive capsulitis were included in the trial and were divided into Group-A and Group-B using a systematic random sampling process. Group A received traditional physiotherapy in addition to the Kinetic chain technique. In Group B, regular physiotherapy was the only treatment provided to patients. The Range of Motion (ROM), Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and the Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) were measured in both groups pre, mid and posttreatment groups. Non parametric statistical techniques were used to analyse the data owing its originality. Results: A total of 30 patients in each Group (A and B) were provided with Kinetic chain approach (mean age=53.93 years) and conventional physiotherapy (mean age=55.40 years), respectively. For comparing data within the same group, Wilcoxon signed-ranks test was used for this. Mann Whitney U-test was used to compare the data between groups. The p-values for the VAS, SPADI, and ROM showed statistical significance at the 0.001 level. In terms of pain, functional impairment, and range of motion, with Group A showing greater strides than Group B. Conclusion: The combination of kinetic chain technique and traditional physiotherapy was more beneficial than either group when used singularly to reduce discomfort, increase the range of motion, and enhance functional capacity in adhesive capsulitis patients.
Linking Social Innovation with Inclusive Transformation of Agri-food System in Nepal: A Review
Authors: Paudel R. , Nepali P. B. , Panta H. K. , Acharya G. D.
Published: June 2023

The potential of social interface in agricultural innovation remains masked by extension service agencies. This review collected and studied scattered knowledge generated literature on the role of social innovation in inclusive transformation of agri- food system highlighting on preproduction, production, supply chain and consumption. Search engines; namely google scholar; Science Direct, JSTOR, Directory of Open Access Journals and Scopus were utilized to identify the articles and relevant literatures. The review provides a state of the art on knowledge related to social innovations and inclusive transformation of agri-food system. The findings show that social innovation is becoming a prevalent tool to expedite inclusive transformation of food systems          in Nepal. However, there are no clear considerations on social innovations in inclusive transformation of food and agriculture system. To provision these considerations, significance of social innovations for inclusive transformation was well explored for further analysis and conclusion. This review enhances the gaining of insights into the theories and findings of past works related to social innovation, inclusiveness, food system transformation and policies which contributed to develop a strong framework of inclusive transformation of food system from social innovation perspective.
Gastrointestinal Helminth Parasites of Malapterurus electricus from Anambra River, Nigeria
Authors: Nwadike C. C. , Ilozumba P. C. O. , Amaechi E. C. , Okeke O. A. , Nnatuanya I. O. , Osaji–Nwafili P. N.
Published: June 2023

Aim: One of the constraints of fish in the wild for sustainable productivity is parasitic infections. The study was carried out to determine the gastrointestinal helminth parasites associated with Malapterurus electricus and their prevalence in relation to sex and size.

Study Design: The study was a survey done to establish the type of gastrointestinal helminth parasites found in M. electricus.

Place and Duration of Study: The specimens were collected from Anambra River between August and December 2018.

Methodology: A total of thirty-two (32) fishes were examined through dissection and observation of the alimentary canal under the objective lens of the microscope. The chi-square test was employed to determine the possible association between parasite prevalence, the sexes, and size. Results: The overall prevalence of parasites was 56.25%. The parasites recovered were, Electrotaenia malapteruri (50.00%) and Tenuisentis niloticus (6.25%). The male specimens (18) recorded a prevalence of 66.67% while the female (14) recorded a prevalence of 42.86%. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of gastrointestinal helminths among gender (P=0.178, P>0.05). The length group, 30 – 39cm had a 100% prevalence. Thus, a significant difference between the fish size and parasite prevalence was observed. The weight groups, 100 -199g, and 400 - 499g also had a 100% prevalence. However, no significant relationship was observed between fish weight and parasite prevalence. The intestine was infected with parasitic worms of the cestode and acanthocephalan species.

Conclusion: This study showed that there is high prevalence of gastrointestinal helminth parasites in M. electricus and this may possibly affect the fish quality.
Comparing Diagnostic Accuracy of USG and CT Scan in Detecting Fatty Liver in Indonesian Patients: Implications for Screening and Management
Authors: Soelistyaningtyas Anggraheny
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to determine the accuracy of non-contrast USG and CT Scan in diagnosing fatty liver in Indonesian patients. Using a diagnostic test design with a cross-sectional approach, patients aged 40 years or older with laboratory examination results supporting NAFLD were selectively chosen from Dr. Soetomo Surabaya Hospital's Radiology Laboratory during February-March 2020. The study found that there is no significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between non-contrast USG and CT Scan in detecting NAFLD. Moreover, the majority of patients with NAFLD were women, and the highest prevalence was observed in the middle age range of 40-49 years. These findings suggest that clinicians should consider these demographic characteristics when screening and managing NAFLD in their patients. The choice of diagnostic test should be based on factors such as availability, cost, and patient preference.
Proximate Analysis of Avocado Pear and Green Mango: Evaluation of Macro and Micro-Nutrient Content of Peels, Fruit and Seed
Authors: Frances Ejimofor Chiamaka , Enoch Nwakoby Nnamdi , Johnson Oledibe Odira , Eziamaka Afam-Ezeaku Chikaodili , Ann Mbaukwu Onyinye
Published: June 2023

This research study is aimed at making a comparative analysis of proximate, sugar and vitamin contents in peels, seed and fruits of avocado pear and green mangoes from Awka metropolies. The proximate compositions (moisture, ash, fat, fiber, protein and carbohydrate), reducing, non-reducing and total sugar were determined using AOAC (Association of Official Analytical Collaboration) method. The concentration of vitamin A and C was determined by titration technique in aqueous extract of EDTA/TCA solution and titrating with CUSO4. The result show that moisture content of 10.10% was recorded for avocado peels and 47.50% for mango fruit, while the proximate analysis carried out recorded ash (3.87-7.35%), fiber (3.22-7.85%), protein (0.62-3.11%), fats (2.27-17.50 and carbohydrates (37.70-65.32%). Total sugar content ranges from 2.1mg/100g in mango seed to 16.80 in avocado fruit. Vitamin A ranged from 0.11mg/100g in avocado peels to 1.80mg/100g in avocado fruits, while vitamin C ranged (10.30-26.40MG/100g), vitamin D (0.83-3.10mg/100g) and vitamin E (4.18-12.74MG/100g). Vitamin A ranged from 0.11mg/100g in avocado peels to 1.80mg/100g in avocado fruits, while vitamin C ranged (10.30-26.40MG/100g), vitamin D (0.83-3.10mg/100g) and vitamin E (4.18-12.74MG/100g).

The result showed that peels, seed and fruits of avocado pear and green mangoes contain enough vitamin C, an antioxidant essential for human health hence the need to increase the consumption of these fruits, thus there is need to increase the consumption of these fruits.
Morphophysiological Responses of Two Chenopodium quinoa Genotypes to Salinity in a Hydroponic System
Authors: Jaikishun Sirpaul , Song Shikui , Yang Zhenbiao
Published: June 2023

The Chenopodium quinoa is poised to be a promising species for future food security and combating climate change because of its nutritional content and its halophytic peculiarity. This study focuses on the differential responses of salt-tolerant (Chadmo) and salt-sensitive (Kankolla) under control (CK) and 400 mM sodium chloride (NaCl) in five temporal dimensions (1/2, 1, 3, 6, and 24 h post-treatment time points). Morphological and physiological features assessed include root/shoot dry weight ratio, relative water content (RWC), membrane stability index (MSI), total chlorophyll (CHL), and adaxial and abaxial epidermal bladder cells (EBC). The results indicated a reduction in dry biomass for both genotypes after treatment with Chadmo and Kankolla at 46.96% and 73.07%, respectively. Similarly, a significant reduction in the RWC with Chadmo at 16.69 % and Kankolla at 13.19% was detected. Under 400 mM NaCl condition and CK, Chadmo's average net photosynthetic rate reduced from 15.73±2.97 to 13.02±2.75 µmol CO2 m-1s-1, indicating 17.24% reduction while in the Kankolla, the reduction from was 13.43±4.12 to 8.34±3.16 µmol CO2 m-1s-1 representing 37.92% decline. In addition, this study showed a significant difference (p<0.05) being identified on ANOVA and Tukey analyses in root/shoot dry weight ratio, RWC, membrane stability index (MSI), total chlorophyll (CHL), and adaxial and abaxial epidermal bladder cells (EBC). Those measurement criteria increased by 14.45% and 3.45% in Chadmo and Kankolla, respectively, from the CK to 400 mM NaCl. Using these morpho-physiological responses to salinity, Chadmo proved to be the better-performing genotype when exposed to 400 mM NaCl and hence identified as the salt-tolerant genotype.
Influence of Sulphur and Zinc on Yield and Economics of Lentil (Lens culinaris L.)
Authors: Mandru Shiny , Singh Rajesh
Published: June 2023

At the Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology, and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P.), India, a field experiment was carried out during Rabi season of 2022. To study how zinc and sulphur affect lentil growth and output. Sulphur (20, 30, 40 kg/ha) and zinc (5, 6, 7 kg/ha) make up the treatments. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loamy in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.8), low in organic carbon (0.35%). Results revealed that the higher in yield attributes viz. number of pods/plant (148.77), maximum number of seeds/pod (1.80), 1000 seed weight (25.27 g), maximum seed yield (1.78 t/ha), stover yield (3.05 t/ha) and economics viz. Higher gross returns (INR 1,06,980/ha), net returns (INR 74,445/ha) and B:C ratio (2.29) were also recorded in treatment-9 (Sulphur 40 kg/ha + Zinc 7.0 kg/ha).
Emerging Trends in Antimicrobial Resistance and Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Ikokwu Godwin Mmaduabuchi , Oseghale Ikalo David , Omoregie Imade , Ralph-Okhiria Osedebamen Hilary , Ighile Esosa Frances
Published: June 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a growing concern worldwide, as it can make  many commonly used antibiotics ineffective against bacterial infections. AMR occurs due to the emergence of new and more resistant bacterial strains and the misuse and overuse of antibiotics. Therefore, it is crucial to find new ways to combat these pathogens. In this review, we will discuss the latest developments in AMR diagnostics, prevention, and treatment. We will explore the use of alternative antimicrobial agents, such as bacteriophages, peptides, and natural compounds, as well as the development of new drugs and vaccines. Additionally, we will investigate how genomics, proteomics, and nanotechnology can aid in discovering new antimicrobial agents and understanding the mechanisms of resistance. This review underscores the importance of finding new strategies to combat AMR and calls for global efforts to address this growing threat to public health. It will be a useful resource for clinicians and researchers working in infectious diseases and AMR.
Assessment of Determinants for Choosing Medical Sciences as a Career Path amongst Medical Students of University of Port-Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Adheke Oghenefego Michael , Asiwe Nicholas , Uahomo Precious Ojo , Ezerioha Chidi Emmanuel , Wariboko Lenton Igwangi , Irozulike Faustina Chiamaka , Opara Angela Ijeoma
Published: June 2023

Background and Aim: Presently, medical students form a vital group of aspiring health professionals that are trained in order to assist in promoting healthcare worldwide. However, there is need to understand how these students derive motivation based on various determinants that enable them in choosing to study related disciplines in medical sciences – hence the aim of this present study.

Materials and Methods: Using a qualitative, survey research design, this cross-sectional study comprising of two hundred (200) pre-medical and medical students (98 males and 102 females) between the ages of 16 to 25 years were randomly selected from the University of Port Harcourt and issued a semi-structured questionnaire containing two sections: socio-demographic variables and the determinants influencing career choice in medical sciences.

Results: The majority of respondents in the age range of 16 – 19 years (accounting for a combined 88.0% of student population) did fill their study questionnaires. There were significant age and gender differences in some of the determinants such as parental and peer influence, prospects of travelling abroad to practice, and financial benefits.

Conclusion: The study resolved that there was a need to educate these students to have the right motivation towards aspiring to study in the medical sciences.
A dataset of nectar sugar production for flowering plants found in urban green spaces
Authors: Tew Nicholas E. , Baldock Katherine C. R. , Morten Joanne M. , Bird Stephanie , Vaughan Ian P. , Memmott Jane
Published: June 2023

Nectar and pollen are floral resources that provide food for insect pollinators, so quantifying their supplies can help us to understand and mitigate pollinator declines. However, most existing datasets of floral resource measurements focus on native plants found in rural landscapes, so cannot be used effectively for estimating supplies in urban green spaces, where non‐native ornamental plants often predominate.

We sampled floral nectar sugar in 225 plant taxa found in UK residential gardens and other urban green spaces, focussing on the most common species. The vast majority (94%) of our sampled taxa are non‐native, filling an important research gap and ensuring these data are also relevant outside of the United Kingdom.

Our dataset includes values of daily nectar sugar production for all 225 taxa and nectar sugar concentration for around half (102) of those sampled. Nectar extraction was conducted according to published methods, ensuring our values can be combined with other datasets.

We anticipate that the two main uses of these data are (1) to estimate the nectar production of habitats and landscapes and (2) to identify high‐nectar plants of conservation importance. To increase the utility of our data, we provide guidance for scaling nectar values up from single flowers to floral units, as is commonly done in field studies.
Using Selective Electron Beam Melting to Enhance the High‐Temperature Strength and Creep Resistance of NiAl–28Cr–6Mo In Situ Composites
Authors: Förner Andreas , Vollhüter Jan , Krapf Anna , Jamjoom Abdullah , Hausmann Daniel , Wahlmann Benjamin , Fu Zongwen , Körner Carolin , Neumeier Steffen , Göken Mathias
Published: June 2023

By increasing the density of interfaces in NiAl–CrMo in situ composites, the mechanical properties can be significantly improved compared to conventionally cast material. The refined microstructure is achieved by manufacturing through electron beam powder bed fusion (PBF‐EB). By varying the process parameters, an equiaxed or columnar cell morphology can be obtained, exhibiting a plate‐like or an interconnected network of the (Cr,Mo) reinforcement phase which is embedded in a NiAl matrix. The microstructure of the different cell morphologies is investigated in detail using scanning electron microscope, transmission electron microscopy, and atom probe tomography. For both morphologies, the mechanical properties at elevated temperatures are analyzed by compression and creep experiments parallel and perpendicular to the building direction. In comparison to cast NiAl and NiAl–(Cr, Mo), the yield strength of the PBF‐EB fabricated specimens is significantly improved at temperatures up to 1,027 °C. While the columnar morphology exhibits the best improved mechanical properties at high temperatures, the equiaxial morphology shows nearly ideal isotropic mechanical behavior, which is a substantial advantage over directionally solidified material.
Supervariate Ceramics: Demineralization via Gelation in Neutral Nontoxic Solutions
Authors: Tang Xinxue , Cheng Yuk-Tong , Shen Junda , Liu Jia-Hua , Zhang Zhibo , Deng Zhiqin , Lyu Fucong , Yang Yong , Zhu Guangyu , Xu Zhengtao , Lu Jian , Li Yang Yang
Published: June 2023

Demineralization is essential in various fields, from ocean acidification to orthopaedics. Currently, demineralization is generally ascribed to etching by corrosive acids. Herein, the “supervariate” strategy for the demineralization of calcite (the most abundant biomineral on Earth, and a major component of Earth's crust) is disclosed, in which nontoxic solutions of multiple ionic species are used to convert calcite into a multi‐ionic amorphous gel that exhibits moderate flowability, which means it can be conveniently collected, stored, transferred, and moulded. This transformation is enabled by the facile formation of highly stable “supervariate” gels featuring high entropy (as a result of their disordered structure, containing various ionic and hydration species) and high resistance to crystallization. Overall, a novel, safe, generic method for etching, gelatinating, and processing solid ceramics is described.
DNA Origami Signaling Units Transduce Chemical and Mechanical Signals in Synthetic Cells
Authors: Jahnke Kevin , Illig Maja , Scheffold Marlene , Tran Mai P. , Mersdorf Ulrike , Göpfrich Kerstin
Published: June 2023

Transmembrane proteins transmit chemical signals as well as mechanical cues. The latter is often achieved by coupling to the cytoskeleton. The incorporation of fully engineerable membrane‐spanning structures for the transduction of chemical and, in particular, mechanical signals is therefore a critical aim for bottom‐up synthetic biology. Here, a membrane‐spanning DNA origami signaling units (DOSUs) is designed and mechanically coupled to DNA cytoskeletons encapsulated within giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The incorporation of the DOSUs into the GUV membranes is verified and clustering upon external stimulation is achieved. Dye‐influx assays reveal that clustering increases the insertion efficiency. The transmembrane‐spanning DOSUs act as pores to allow for the transport of single‐stranded DNA into the GUVs. This is employed to trigger the reconfiguration of DNA cytoskeletons within GUVs. In addition to chemical signaling, mechanical coupling of the DOSUs to the internal DNA cytoskeletons is induced. With chemical cues from the environment, clustering of the DOSUs is induced, which triggers a symmetry break in the organization of the DNA cytoskeleton inside of the GUV. DNA‐based transmembrane structures are engineered that transduce signals without transporting the signaling molecule itself—providing a route toward signal processing and adaptive synthetic cells.
Spin‐Phonon Scattering‐Induced Low Thermal Conductivity in a van der Waals Layered Ferromagnet Cr2Si2Te6
Authors: Yang Kunya , Wu Hong , Li Zefang , Ran Chen , Wang Xiao , Zhu Fengfeng , Gong Xiangnan , Liu Yan , Wang Guiwen , Zhang Long , Mi Xinrun , Wang Aifeng , Chai Yisheng , Su Yixi , Wang Wenhong , He Mingquan , Yang Xiaolong , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: June 2023

Layered van der Waals (vdW) magnets are prominent playgrounds for developing magnetoelectric, magneto‐optic, and spintronic devices. In spintronics, particularly in spincaloritronic applications, low thermal conductivity (κ) is highly desired. Herein, by combining thermal transport measurements with density functional theory calculations, this study demonstrates low κ down to 1 W m−1 K−1 in a typical vdW ferromagnet Cr2Si2Te6. In the paramagnetic state, development of magnetic fluctuations way above Tc = 33 K strongly reduces κ via spin‐phonon scattering, leading to low κ ≈ 1 W m−1 K−1 over a wide temperature range, in comparable to that of amorphous silica. In the magnetically ordered state, emergence of resonant magnon‐phonon scattering limits κ below ≈2 W m−1 K−1, which will be three times larger if magnetic scatterings are absent. Application of magnetic fields strongly suppresses the spin‐phonon scattering, giving rise to large enhancements of κ. This study's calculations well capture these complex behaviors of κ by taking the temperature‐ and magnetic‐field‐dependent spin‐phonon scattering into account. Realization of low κ, which is easily tunable by magnetic fields in Cr2Si2Te6, may further promote spincaloritronic applications of vdW magnets. This study's theoretical approach may also provide a generic understanding of spin‐phonon scattering, which appears to play important roles in various systems.
Cryopreservation in the Era of Cell Therapy: Revisiting Fundamental Concepts to Enable Future Technologies
Authors: Bai Bingyu , Xue Chencheng , Wen Yue , Lim Jet , Le Zhicheng , Shou Yufeng , Shin Sunmi , Tay Andy
Published: June 2023

Cryopreservation strives to maximize the viability and biofunctionality of cells and tissues by cooling them to a subzero temperature to facilitate storage and delivery. This technology has enabled clinics and labs to preserve rare and crucial samples and is poised to become more important with rising interest in cell therapy. Here, the biological impact of cooling rates on different cellular components is first described, paying special emphasis on the differences between slow cooling and vitrification with a heat transfer perspective based on the Biot number. This is followed by an overview of various classes of chemical‐based cryoprotective agents including small molecules, antifreeze proteins, hydrogels, and cryoprotective nanomaterials. Most importantly, fundamental concepts of cryopreservation including Mazur's “two‐factor hypothesis” are revisited, gaps in them are highlighted, and experiments to validate reported claims to deepen mechanistic understanding of cryoprotection are proposed. A matric is also introduced to assess the suitability of biomaterials for use in cell therapy to support manufacturers in making strategic choices for storing clinical samples. It is believed that this review would inspire readers to scrutinize fundamental concepts in cryopreservation to facilitate the development of new cryoprotective materials and technologies to support the emerging cell manufacturing and therapy industry.
Graphene Implanted Shape Memory Polymers with Dielectric Gene Dominated Highly Efficient Microwave Drive
Authors: Wang Yu‐Chang , Wang Yu‐Ze , Shu Jin‐Cheng , Cao Wen‐Qiang , Li Chen‐Sha , Cao Mao‐Sheng
Published: June 2023

Microwave‐driven strategy shows many advantages including selective energization, uniform heating, and high penetration depth, which is a hot topic in wireless actuators. Understanding microwave stimulus‐response mechanisms is the key to developing universal construction strategies for advanced microwave‐driven actuators. Herein, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) with specified dielectric genes and thermal properties is implanted into the shape memory polymer, liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) as an example, to construct soft, reversible, and sensitive microwave actuators. Based on the analysis of microstructure and dielectric properties, LCE‐rGO composites exhibit excellent polarization relaxation‐dominated dielectric loss and electromagnetic (EM) energy conversion ability. The maximum dielectric loss factor (ε″) and loss tangent (tan δe) of LCE‐rGO are dramatically increased by 216% and 87.5% compared to pure LCE, respectively, and the optimum apparent energy harvest efficiency is 19.4 times higher than that of LCE. In addition, the implantation of rGO significantly lowers the microwave actuation threshold of LCE‐rGO composites and reinforces their stimulus‐response capacity. Response time under 750 W microwave irradiation of LCE‐rGO is shortened to <10s. These findings can provide a solid basis for the design and fabrication of highly efficient microwave stimuli‐responsive polymers and enlighten a new approach to wireless actuated smart devices.
Tunable Structured Metal Oxides for Biocatalytic Therapeutics
Authors: Yuan Minjia , Li Qian , Gao Yang , He Chao , Adli Mohsen , Wu Changzhu , Zhou Hongju , Luo Xianglin , Ma Lang , Cheng Chong
Published: June 2023

The past few decades have witnessed the flourish of creating metal oxides for biocatalytic therapeutics due to their structural diversities, feasible modifications, tunable catalytic sites, and low cost when compared to their natural enzyme counterparts. Here, in this timely review, the most recent progress and future trends in engineering tunable structured metal oxides and decoding their structure‐reactivity relationships for biocatalytic therapeutics is comprehensively summarized. At first, the fundamental activities, evaluations, and mechanisms of metal oxide‐based biocatalysts are carefully disclosed. Subsequently, the merits, design methods, and state‐of‐art achievements of different types of nanostructured and biofunctionalized metal oxides are thoroughly discussed. Thereafter, it provides detailed comments on the catalytic center modulation strategies to engineer metal oxides for efficient reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐catalysis, including atomic catalytic site engineering, heterostructures, and support effects. Furthermore, the representative applications of these ROS‐catalytic metal oxides have been systematically summarized, such as catalytic disinfections, cancer therapies, ROS scavenging and anti‐inflammations, biocatalytic sensors, as well as corresponding toxicities. Finally, current challenges and future perspectives are also highlighted. It is believed that this review can provide cutting‐edge and multidisciplinary instruction for the future design of ROS‐catalytic metal oxides and stimulate their widespread utilization in broad therapeutic applications.
Magnetically Actuated Fiber‐Based Soft Robots
Authors: Lee Youngbin , Koehler Florian , Dillon Tom , Loke Gabriel , Kim Yoonho , Marion Juliette , Antonini Marc‐Joseph , Garwood Indie C. , Sahasrabudhe Atharva , Nagao Keisuke , Zhao Xuanhe , Fink Yoel , Roche Ellen T. , Anikeeva Polina
Published: June 2023

Broad adoption of magnetic soft robotics is hampered by the sophisticated field paradigms for their manipulation and the complexities in controlling multiple devices. Furthermore, high‐throughput fabrication of such devices across spatial scales remains challenging. Here, advances in fiber‐based actuators and magnetic elastomer composites are leveraged to create 3D magnetic soft robots controlled by unidirectional fields. Thermally drawn elastomeric fibers are instrumented with a magnetic composite synthesized to withstand strains exceeding 600%. A combination of strain and magnetization engineering in these fibers enables programming of 3D robots capable of crawling or walking in magnetic fields orthogonal to the plane of motion. Magnetic robots act as cargo carriers, and multiple robots can be controlled simultaneously and in opposing directions using a single stationary electromagnet. The scalable approach to fabrication and control of magnetic soft robots invites their future applications in constrained environments where complex fields cannot be readily deployed.
Dendritic Solid Polymer Electrolytes: A New Paradigm for High‐Performance Lithium‐Based Batteries
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Shi , Wang Qian , Shao Huaiyu , Jin Zhong
Published: June 2023

Li‐ions battery is widely used and recognized, but its energy density based on organic electrolytes has approached the theoretical upper limit, while the use of organic electrolytes also brings some safety hazards (leakage and flammability). Polymer electrolytes (PEs) are expected to fundamentally solve the safety problem and improve energy density. Therefore, Li‐ions battery based on solid PE has become a research hotspot in recent years. However, low ionic conductivity and poor mechanical properties, as well as a narrow electrochemical window limit its further development. Dendritic PEs with unique topology structure has low crystallinity, high segmental mobility, and reduced chain entanglement, providing a new avenue for designing high‐performance PEs. In this review, the basic concept and synthetic chemistry of dendritic polymers are first introduced. Then, this story will turn to how to balance the mechanical properties, ionic conductivity, and electrochemical stability of dendritic PEs from synthetic chemistry. In addition, accomplishments on dendritic PEs based on different synthesis strategies and recent advances in battery applications are summarized and discussed. Subsequently, the ionic transport mechanism and interfacial interaction are deeply analyzed. In the end, the challenges and prospects are outlined to promote further development in this booming field.
Enhanced Free‐Radical Generation on MoS2/Pt by Light and Water Vapor Co‐Activation for Selective CO Detection with High Sensitivity
Authors: Xia Yi , Guo Shenghui , Yang Li , He Sufang , Zhou Liexing , Wang Mingjun , Gao Jiyun , Hou Ming , Wang Jing , Komarneni Sridhar
Published: June 2023

Semiconductor‐based gas sensors hold great promise for effective carbon monoxide (CO) detection. However, boosting sensor response and selectivity remains a key priority in moist conditions. In this study, a composite material, Pt quantum dots decorated MoS2 nanosheets (MoS2/Pt), is developed as a highly sensitive material for CO detection when facilitated with visible light. The MoS2/Pt sensor shows a significantly improved response (87.4%) with impressive response/recovery kinetics (20 s/17 s), long‐term stability (60 days), and good selectivity to CO at high humidity (≈60%). It is confirmed both experimentally and theoretically that the MoS2/Pt surface lowers the activation energy to convert CO to CO2 via the free radicals induced by the synergy of photochemical effects and water vapor. As a result, the MoS2/Pt surface promotes both CO response and selectivity, providing fundamental clues to improve room‐temperature semiconductor‐based sensors for gas detection under extreme conditions.
Chiral MOF Derived Wearable Logic Sensor for Intuitive Discrimination of Physiologically Active Enantiomer
Authors: Yang Xiu‐Li , Yang Zheng‐Ying , Shao Rong , Guan Rong‐Feng , Dong Su‐Li , Xie Ming‐Hua
Published: June 2023

Chiral sensors have attracted growing interest due to their application in health monitoring. However, rational design of wearable logic chiral sensors remains a great challenge. In this work, a dual responsive chiral sensor RT@CDMOF is prepared through in situ self‐assembly of chiral γ‐cyclodextrin metal‐organic framework (CDMOF), rhodamine 6G hydrazide (RGH), and tetracyanovinylindane (TCN). The embedded RGH and TCN inherit the chirality of host CDMOF, producing dual changes both in fluorescence and reflectance. RT@CDMOF is explored as a dual channel sensor for chiral discrimination of lactate enantiomers. Comprehensive mechanistic studies reveal the chiral binding process, and carboxylate dissociation is confirmed by impedance and solid‐state 1H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). A flexible membrane sensor is successfully fabricated based on RT@CDMOF for wearable health monitoring. Practical evaluation confirms the potential of fabricated membrane sensor in point‐of‐care health monitoring by indexing the exercise intensity. Based on above, a chiral IMPLICATION logic unit can be successfully achieved, demonstrating the promising potential of RT@CDMOF in design and assembly of novel smart devices. This work may open a new avenue to the rational design of logic chiral sensors for wearable health monitoring applications.
Comparison of Harmonic Generation from Crystalline and Amorphous Gallium Phosphide Nanofilms
Authors: Tilmann Benjamin , Huq Tahiyat , Possmayer Thomas , Dranczewski Jakub , Nickel Bert , Zhang Haizhong , Krivitsky Leonid , Kuznetsov Arseniy I. , de S. Menezes Leonardo , Vezzoli Stefano , Sapienza Riccardo , Maier Stefan A.
Published: June 2023

Gallium phosphide (GaP) is a promising material for nanophotonics, given its large refractive index and a transparency over most of the visible spectrum. However, since easy phase‐matching is not possible with bulk GaP, a comprehensive study of its nonlinear optical properties for harmonic generation, especially when grown as thin films, is still missing. Here, second harmonic generation is studied from epitaxially grown GaP thin films, demonstrating that the absolute conversion efficiencies are comparable to a bulk wafer over the pump wavelength range from 1060 to 1370 nm. Furthermore, the results are compared to nonlinear simulations, and the second order nonlinear susceptibility is extracted, showing a similar dispersion and magnitude to that of the bulk material. Furthermore, the third order nonlinear susceptibility of amorphous GaP thin films is extracted from third harmonic generation to be more than one order of magnitude larger than that of the crystalline material, and generation of up to the fifth harmonic is reported. The results show the potential of crystalline and amorphous thin films for nonlinear optics with nanoantennas and metasurfaces, particularly in the visible to near infrared part of the spectrum.
Normalizing Input–Output Relationships of Cancer Networks for Reversion Therapy
Authors: Joo Jae Il , Park Hwa‐Jeong , Cho Kwang‐Hyun
Published: June 2023

Accumulated genetic alterations in cancer cells distort cellular stimulus‐response (or input–output) relationships, resulting in uncontrolled proliferation. However, the complex molecular interaction network within a cell implicates a possibility of restoring such distorted input–output relationships by rewiring the signal flow through controlling hidden molecular switches. Here, a system framework of analyzing cellular input–output relationships in consideration of various genetic alterations and identifying possible molecular switches that can normalize the distorted relationships based on Boolean network modeling and dynamics analysis is presented. Such reversion is demonstrated by the analysis of a number of cancer molecular networks together with a focused case study on bladder cancer with in vitro experiments and patient survival data analysis. The origin of reversibility from an evolutionary point of view based on the redundancy and robustness intrinsically embedded in complex molecular regulatory networks is further discussed.
Human adaptation to cold and warm climatic conditions: A comparison between two geographically diverse Indigenous populations
Authors: Ghosh Sudipta
Published: June 2023

Objectives

The present study aims to compare body adiposity and blood pressure (BP) in two climatically and ethnically diverse populations, examining whether thermoregulatory adaptive mechanism may protect Indigenous populations from exhibiting adverse consequences of increased adiposity.

Methods

A cross sectional sample of 404 subjects, of which 200 were Monpa and 204 were Santhal, from two ethnically and geographically distinct populations of India were studied. Body mass index (BMI; kg/m2), fat mass (FM; kg), fat free mass (kg), and percent body fat (%BF) were calculated for evaluation of body adiposity. Multivariate multiple regression analysis was adopted to examine the influence of age and sex of populations under study, on body adiposity and BP variables.

Results

BMI, %BF, and FM were found to be significantly higher (p ˂ .001) among the Monpa males and females compared with their Santhal counterparts. In contrast, the prevalence of hypertension among Monpa and Santhal is comparable (3.5%Monpa vs. 3.9%Santhal for systolic BP; 8.5%Monpa vs. 8.3%Santhal for diastolic BP). Adiposity, as quantitated by the fat mass index and %BF was significantly (p ˂ .001) correlated to age and sex of study population, explaining ~75.3% and ~75.4% of total variations of these variables, respectively.

Conclusions

Overall the present study suggests that modern human populations follow thermoregulatory mechanism for adaptation to different climatic conditions. Consequently, greater adiposity was evident among the Monpa who adapt to the cold climate, in comparison to their Santhal counterparts who dwell in warm climate.
Steered Quantum Coherence as a Signature of Topological Quantum Phase Transitions in the Extended XY Model
Authors: Du Ming‐Ming , Gu Shi‐Pu , Zhong Wei , Yan Xiao‐Jing , Zhou Lan , Sheng Yu‐Bo
Published: June 2023

In recent years, there has been a surge of interest in exploring coherence measures and correlation measures to characterize topological quantum phase transitions (TQPTs). Here, motivated by the continued push in this direction, the steered quantum coherence (SQC) in the extended XY model is studied to analyze its capability in characterizing TQPTs. It is shown that the first derivative of SQC succeeds in signaling different critical points of TQPTs. In particular, it is found that the SQC is a long‐range correlation and the first derivative of SQC can always accurately identify TQPTs for different site distance.
Mit sichtbarem Licht schaltbare Benzimidazol‐Azo‐Arene wirken als β‐Arrestin2 funktionell selektive Cannabinoid‐Rezeptor 2 Agonisten
Authors: Steinmüller Sophie A. M. , Fender Julia , Deventer Marie H. , Tutov Anna , Lorenz Kristina , Stove Christophe P. , Hislop James N. , Decker Michael
Published: June 2023

Der Cannabinoid 2 Rezeptor (CB2R) besitzt großes therapeutisches Potential bei zahlreichen pathophysiologischen Prozessen wie z. B. der Neuroinflammation. Signalweg‐selektive Liganden werden benötigt, um mangelnden klinischen Erfolg zu überwinden und um die Zusammenhänge zwischen einzelnen Signalwegen und deren therapeutischen Effekten zu beleuchten. Hier berichten wir vom Design und der Synthese eines photoschaltbaren chemischen Gerüsts basierend auf der “privilegierten” Struktur des Benzimidazols und seiner Anwendung als funktionell selektiven CB2R “Wirksamkeitsschalter” (”efficacy switch”). Benzimidazol‐Azo‐Arene bieten großes Potential für eine breite Erweiterung der Photopharmakologie auf eine Vielzahl optisch adressierbarer biologischer Zielstrukturen. Wir haben dieses Gerüst verwendet, um Substanz 10 d zu entwickeln, ein “trans‐on” Agonist, der als molekulare Sonde dient, um den β‐Arrestin2 (βArr2) Signalweg am CB2R zu untersuchen. Die selektive Aktivierung des βΑrr2 Signalweges wurde mittels CB2R Internalisierung und βArr2 Rekrutierung nachgewiesen, während keine Aktivierung bei der Betrachtung von Gα16 oder mini‐Gαi auftrat. Insgesamt stellt Substanz 10 d den ersten Licht‐abhängigen funktionell selektiven Agonisten dar, mit dem die komplexen βArr2‐abhängigen Mechanismen der Endozytose am CB2R untersucht werden können.
Visible‐Light Photoswitchable Benzimidazole Azo‐Arenes as β‐Arrestin2‐Biased Selective Cannabinoid 2 Receptor Agonists
Authors: Steinmüller Sophie A. M. , Fender Julia , Deventer Marie H. , Tutov Anna , Lorenz Kristina , Stove Christophe P. , Hislop James N. , Decker Michael
Published: June 2023

The cannabinoid 2 receptor (CB2R) has high therapeutic potential for multiple pathogenic processes, such as neuroinflammation. Pathway‐selective ligands are needed to overcome the lack of clinical success and to elucidate correlations between pathways and their respective therapeutic effects. Herein, we report the design and synthesis of a photoswitchable scaffold based on the privileged structure of benzimidazole and its application as a functionally selective CB2R “efficacy‐switch”. Benzimidazole azo‐arenes offer huge potential for the broad extension of photopharmacology to a wide range of optically addressable biological targets. We used this scaffold to develop compound 10 d, a “trans‐on” agonist, which serves as a molecular probe to study the β‐arrestin2 (βarr2) pathway at CB2R. βΑrr2 bias was observed in CB2R internalization and βarr2 recruitment, while no activation occurred when looking at Gα16 or mini‐Gαi. Overall, compound 10 d is the first light‐dependent functionally selective agonist to investigate the complex mechanisms of CB2R‐βarr2 dependent endocytosis.