bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional Compensation of P/Q by N-Type Channels Blocks Short-Term Plasticity at the Calyx of Held Presynaptic Terminal
Authors: Inchauspe Carlota González , Martini Francisco J. , Forsythe Ian D. , Uchitel Osvaldo D.
Published: November 2004

Calcium channels of the P/Q subtype mediate transmitter release at the neuromuscular junction and at many central synapses, such as the calyx of Held. Transgenic mice in which α1Achannels are ablated provide a powerful tool with which to test compensatory mechanisms at the synapse and to explore mechanisms of presynaptic regulation associated with expression of P/Q channels. Using the calyx of Held preparation from the knock-out (KO) mice, we show here that N-type channels functionally compensate for the absence of P/Q subunits at the calyx and evoke giant synaptic currents [approximately two-thirds of the magnitude of wild-type (WT) responses]. However, although evoked paired-pulse facilitation is prominent in WT, this facilitation is greatly diminished in the KO. In addition, direct recording of presynaptic calcium currents revealed that the major functional difference was the absence of calcium-dependent facilitation at the calyx in the P/Q KO animals. We conclude that one physiological function of P/Q channels is to provide additional facilitatory drive, so contributing to maintenance of transmission as vesicles are depleted during high throughput synaptic transmission.
Phytotoxicity and bioavailability of nickel: Chemical speciation and bioaccumulation
Authors: Weng Liping , Lexmond Theo M. , Wolthoorn Anke , Temminghoff Erwin J. M. , van Riemsdijk Willem H.
Published: November 2004

The effect of pH on the bioaccumulation of nickel (Ni) by plants is opposite when using a nutrient solution or a soil as a growing medium. This paradox can be understood if the pH effect on the bioaccumulation, on the chemical speciation in the toil solution, and on the binding to the soil of Ni are all taken into account. Using simple equations to describe the individual relationships, it is possible to quantify these effects once the relationships have been established. Increased Ni uptake leads to reduced plant dry weight production for a certain growing period. The median effective concentration (EC50) decreased from 23 to 1.7 μM Ni in the nutrient solution for pH 4.0 to 7.0, whereas the EC50 of added Ni in a sandy soil increased from 0.72 to 9.95 mmol Ni/kg soil for pH 4.7 to 6.8. Bioaccumulation, binding to the soil solid phase, and binding to the dissolved organic matter all increase with increasing pH. However, the magnitude of the effect is the least for bioaccumulation as a function of pH, causing the apparent paradox.
An evaluation of sodium loss and gill metal binding properties in rainbow trout and yellow perch to explain species differences in copper tolerance
Authors: Taylor Lisa N. , Wood Chris M. , McDonald D. Gordon
Published: November 2004

The main objective of the study was use a species comparison approach in order understand sensitivity and tolerance differences to copper. We hypothesized that species differences in toxicity would be reflected by differences in copper binding to high-affinity sites on the gill. Specifically, the strength of copper binding (affinity, logK) and maximum number of binding sites (saturation, Bmax) for copper at the gill surface would vary among different species of fish. Two species that are different in their copper sensitivity are the rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and yellow perch (Perca flavescens). We explicitly compared acute toxicity (median lethal concentrations via 96-h LC50s) and whole-body Na+ loss in both organisms in two distinct water chemistries (i.e., hard and soft water). For both species, the copper binding sites at the gill surface were characterized for their affinity and saturability. The binding properties of the gill were quite similar between the two species in each water chemistry. Based on estimations of the free cupric ion concentration, the affinity, or logK, was 8.4 for both species in soft water, whereas in hard water, the affinity was higher (˜9.7). The Bmax value in soft water was 1.88 nmol/g for rainbow trout and yellow perch, while in hard water, saturation occurred at 3.63 nmol/g for rainbow trout and 9.01 nmol/g for yellow perch. More importantly, the amount of copper bound to the gills at 50% mortality (i.e., lethal accumulation; the LA50) was different between the two species (yellow perch LA50s were nine times higher than those of rainbow trout in soft water and hard water), indicating that the copper binding to the yellow perch gill must not have been ‘biologically reactive.’ According to 96-h LC50s, yellow perch were less sensitive to copper than were rainbow trout; however, the difference between the two species was similar in hard water (1.05 vs 4.16 μM) and soft water (˜0.10 vs 0.44 μM). Perch were more tolerant because they lost less sodium upon exposure to copper; yet this mechanism of tolerance was not reflected by the amount of copper at the gill surface. The influence of water chemistry on the binding properties of the gill demonstrates the dynamic nature of the gill in maintaining ionoregulatory homeostasis, a key issue in the future development of the chronic biotic ligand model.
Binding of perfluorinated fatty acids to serum proteins
Authors: Jones Paul D. , Hu Wenyue , De Coen Wim , Newsted John L. , Giesy John P.
Published: November 2004

Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) accumulates in the liver and blood of exposed organisms. The potential for these surfactant molecules to interfere with hormone/protein interactions in blood is of concern given the importance of these interactions. The PFOS binding to serum proteins was investigated by assessing its ability to displace a variety of steroid hormones from specific binding proteins in the serum of birds and fishes. Perfluorooctane sulfonic acid had only a weak ability to displace estrogen or testosterone from carp serum steroid binding proteins. Displacement of cortisone in avian sera occurred at relatively low PFOS concentrations. Corticosterone displacement potency increased with chain length, and sulfonic acids were more potent than carboxylic acids. The PFOS concentrations estimated to cause these effects were 320 μM or greater, equivalent to serum concentrations greater than 160 mg/L. Using mass spectrometry and direct in vitro binding assays, PFOS was demonstrated to bind strongly to bovine serum albumin (BSA) in a 1:1 stoichiometric ratio. It appears that PFOS in serum is in general bound to albumins. Concentrations of PFOS required to saturate albumin would be in excess of 50 to 100 mg/L. Based on current environmental concentrations, it is unlikely that PFOS would cause displacement of hormones from serum proteins in wildlife.
Blood exosome connexins and small RNAs related to demyelinating disease activity
Authors: Maimaitijiang Guzailiayi , Kira Jun‐ichi , Nakamura Yuri , Watanabe Mitsuru , Takase Ezgi Ozdemir , Nagata Satoshi , Sakoda Ayako , Zhang Xu , Masaki Katsuhisa , Yamasaki Ryo , Isobe Noriko , Yamaguchi Hiroo , Imamura Tomohiro
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To assess blood exosome (Ex)‐connexin (Cx)43 (encoded by GJA1) and its truncated isoforms in multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), which show distinct alterations in astroglial Cx43.

Methods

Serum Exs from 48 patients with MS (34 relapsing–remitting, 14 secondary‐progressive), 35 with NMOSD, 20 with other inflammatory neurologic diseases (OIND), and 17 healthy controls (HC) were subjected to quantitative Western blotting for Cx43, single‐molecule array for neurofilament‐L, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction for non‐coding RNAs detected by RNA sequencing. Sera from control and astroglia‐specific Cx43 inducible conditional knockout (Cx43‐icKO) mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) were also tested.

Results

Ex‐GJA1‐29k was markedly higher in MS than in NMOSD, OIND, and HC; it successively increased at relapse, remission, and secondary progression, and positively correlated with disability scores. Ex‐hsa‐miR‐133b and other hsa‐miRs that bind to full‐length Cx43 were significantly lower in secondary‐progressive MS than in HC, and Ex‐hsa‐miR‐133b was negatively correlated with disability scores. Ex‐GJA1‐11k expression was lower in NMOSD at relapse than in HC and OIND, and was negatively correlated with disability score worsening and Ex‐neurofilament‐L levels. NMOSD at relapse had significantly higher expression of small nucleolar RNA (SNORD37, SNORD95, and SNORD97) than HC, and SNORD37 and SNORD95 showed strong negative correlations with disability scores. Control mice showed increased Ex‐GJA1‐43k and ‐29k during EAE; this effect was markedly reduced in Cx43‐icKO mice with attenuated EAE.

Interpretation

Blood Ex‐Cx43‐truncated isoforms and small non‐coding RNAs, which partially come from brain astroglia, are distinctly dysregulated in MS and NMSOD.
Top‐Down Assembly of Photosensitizable Flexible Wood Dressing with Synergistic Effect of Anti‐Infection and Moisture Management
Authors: Huang Siqi , Wang Zaiyu , Wu Qian , Wu Bo , Chen Binbin , Li Ying , Qiu Zijie , Zhao Zheng , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: February 2025

Infected wound repair stands as a formidable global issue, posing significant threats to public health and medical care. Biopolymer‐based dressings represent a natural and biocompatible candidate greatly conductive to wound healing. However, the low productivity and high price, coupled with the widespread lack of antibacterial activities, vitally restrict their clinical applications. Herein, a simple yet efficient top‐down assembly strategy is reported to fabricate aggregation‐induced emission photosensitizer (AIE‐PS) functionalized flexible wood (AIE/FW) dressing with synergistic photodynamic therapy and moisture management to accelerate the healing of infected wounds. On account of its superior bactericidal effectiveness and appropriate moisture management, along with superb flexibility and excellent biocompatibility, the proposed AIE/FW can effectively prevent wound infection and alleviate inflammatory response, thereby dramatically boosting the infected wound recovery. It is anticipated that the scalable, sustainable, and cost‐effective AIE/FW offers a promising pathway to overcome global wound care challenges.
A Pre‐Coordinated Strategy Precisely Tailors the Coordination Structure of Single‐Atom Sites Toward Efficient Catalysis
Authors: Cao Fengliang , Zhao Qingshan , Tan Xiaojie , Xu Qian , Wang Libo , Zhu Bingxian , Yan Yue , Kong Debin , Zhi Linjie , Wu Mingbo
Published: February 2025

Coordination structure engineering represents a promising approach for optimizing the catalytic properties of single‐atom catalysts (SACs). However, the precise tailoring of single‐atom sites remains challenging. Herein, a pre‐coordination strategy is proposed to design SACs with tunable local coordination environments on 2D honeycomb‐like carbon nanofoams. By pre‐coordinating the metal precursor with customized functional groups on a layered Mg(OH)2 template through strong d‐p orbital hybridization, SACs featuring Co─N4 (Co1/NC), Co─C4 (Co1/CC), and Co─C2S2 (Co1/CSC) configurations are fabricated. The lamellar honeycomb‐like architecture facilitates active site exposure, reactant enrichment, and mass transfer during the reaction process. Consequently, the Co1/NC catalyst, despite its extremely low Co loading of 0.12 wt.%, demonstrates exceptional catalytic activity and stability for nitroaromatics reduction, achieving an impressive overall turnover frequency (TOF) of 73668 h−1 for the conversion of 4‐nitrophenol to 4‐nitroaniline, surpassing most reported catalysts. Theoretical calculations indicate the Co─N4 configuration possesses moderate Fermi electronic states compared to Co─C4 and Co─C2S2, significantly promoting the formation and utilization of reactive H* species and accelerating the reaction kinetics for aromatic nitroreduction. This work establishes a novel avenue for the meticulous manipulation of coordination structures in SACs, paving the way for the advancement of sophisticated catalytic materials for chemical transformations.
Recyclable and Healable Electro‐Optical Fiber for Sensing and Information Transmission
Authors: Li Weikang , Lu Zeren , Zhang Yue , Zhu Liming , Zhang Jiwei , Zhang Yufan , Wu Mengjie , Zhou Xinran , Xiong Jiaqing
Published: February 2025

Electro‐optical fibers with dual‐mode sensing ability show broad potential in wearable electronics and intelligent human‐machine interaction. However, the complex multi‐step preparation procedures and the limited environmental adaptivity in materials (stretchability, healability, recyclability, etc.) hinder its practical applications. Herein, based on a urea‐oxime polyurethane, a fiber integrating dual‐mode electrical sensing and two‐color light‐emitting functions is developed using a one‐step continuous coaxial wet‐spinning process, with luminescent sulfides‐doped shell layer and an ionogel conductive core layer. The fiber exhibits excellent mechanical, electrical, and optical healing capabilities with efficiencies of 94%, 92%, and 99%, which can be quickly recycled within 30 minutes. Utilizing the electro‐optical bimodular perceptive fiber, multi‐scenario applications including insect phototaxis monitoring, luminous wearables, and smart tripwires are demonstrated, revealing the healing superiority in programming complex fiber architectures to adapt to substrates with shape or size diversity. Moreover, a healing‐programmed fiber with tailored segments is demonstrated for electro‐optical hybrid encrypted information transmission. This work inspires a promising healing‐programming strategy of healable electro‐optical fibers for wide applications in tactile sensing and information communicating.
Electronic Communication Between Single Atomic Nickel and Iron‐Nitrogen Species Promote the Bifunctional Oxygen Evolution and Reduction for Efficient Rechargeable Zinc‐Air Battery
Authors: Liu Qingqing , Chen Junsheng , Cao Liyun , Wang Ying , Qi Yirong , Wei Ying , Ma Qunzhi , Huang Jianfeng , Fan Xing , Feng Yongqiang
Published: February 2025

The reversible oxygen evolution/reduction reaction (OER/ORR) have been recognized as the key electrochemical process for next‐generation energy conversion and storage (ECS) devices, such as fuel cells and metal‐air batteries. However, the intrinsic large overpotential barrier caused by oxygen‐containing intermediates (*OH, *O, and *OOH) greatly hamper the reaction kinetics of OER/ORR. In this work, a dual‐functional OER/ORR electrocatalyst composed of Ni single atomic sites and FeN0.0324 nanoclusters within a unique core–shell structure of FeN0.0324@NiN4/C is constructed. Benefiting from the efficient synergistic electronic effect of single atomic Ni and FeN0.0324, the FeN0.0324@NiN4/C exhibits excellent electrocatalytic activities for OER with an overpotential of 258 mV at 10 mA cm−2 and ORR with a half‐wave potential (E1/2) of 0.89 V. A liquid zinc‐air battery assembled by FeN0.0324@NiN4/C achieves a maximum peak power density of 180.9 mW cm−2 and cycle endurance stability of more than 150 h. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation indicates that the d‐band center near the Fermi level of NiN4‐FeN4 is shifted more upward in comparison with pristine NiN4H, which effectively optimizes the adsorption of *O and alleviates the troublesome OER process. This study provides a new platform for the construction of new OER/ORR electrocatalysts in the field of energy storage devices.
Bioinspired Nanochitin‐Based Porous Constructs for Light‐Driven Whole‐Cell Biotransformations
Authors: Arumughan Vishnu , Medipally Hitesh , Torris Arun , Levä Tuukka , Grimm Hanna C. , Tammelin Tekla , Kourist Robert , Kontturi Eero
Published: February 2025

Solid‐state photosynthetic cell factories (SSPCFs) are a new production concept that leverages the innate photosynthetic abilities of microbes to drive the production of valuable chemicals. It addresses practical challenges such as high energy and water demand and improper light distribution associated with suspension‐based culturing; however, these systems often face significant challenges related to mass transfer. The approach focuses on overcoming these limitations by carefully engineering the microstructure of the immobilization matrix through freeze‐induced assembly of nanochitin building blocks. The use of nanochitins with optimized size distribution enabled the formation of macropores with lamellar spatial organization, which significantly improves light transmittance and distribution, crucial for maximizing the efficiency of photosynthetic reactions. The biomimetic crosslinking strategy, leveraging specific interactions between polyphosphate anions and primary amine groups featured on chitin fibers, produced mechanically robust and wet‐resilient cryogels that maintained their functionality under operational conditions. Various model biotransformation reactions leading to value‐added chemicals are performed in chitin‐based matrix. It demonstrates superior or comparable performance to existing state‐of‐the‐art matrices and suspension‐based systems. The findings suggest that chitin‐based cryogel approach holds significant promise for advancing the development of solid‐state photosynthetic cell factories, offering a scalable solution to improve the efficiency and productivity of light‐driven biotransformation.
Atomic‐Level Modulation of Imine and Cobalt Enables a Homogeneous Co5.47N Catalyst for High‐Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Li Mai , Liu Hui , Cheng Zhi , He Jiawei , Li Huifang , Zhang Lisheng , Liu Tao , Wang Xiaojun , Wang Peng , Liu Zhiming , Cui Guanglei
Published: February 2025

Electrocatalyst presents a promising strategy for enhancing sulfur utilization and cycling stability in lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries, especially under demanding operational conditions. However, conventional catalytic strategies demonstrate undesirable effects in high‐loading lithium‐sulfur batteries, primarily attributed to the absence of efficient catalyst dispersion strategy. In this work, it successfully anchored a diverse range of Co‐containing catalysts uniformly onto the COF‐derived carbon through the unique chelation between cobalt atoms and imine groups. This strategy greatly enhances catalytic efficiency and also prevents the formation of “dead” catalysts, maximizing catalyst utilization. Experimental measurements and simulations reveal that the Co5.47N nanocrystal integrated with COF‐derived carbon (Co5.47N@NC) demonstrates remarkable catalytic efficiency in accelerating polysulfide conversion, primarily owing to the significant modulation of the d‐band center of cobalt atoms within the Co5.47N@NC. Remarkably, the Li‐S battery with Co5.47N@NC achieves a specific capacity of 1288 mAh g−1 at 0.3 C and maintains 92% capacity retention over 200 cycles. The Co5.47N@NC system with a sulfur loading of 5.7 mg cm−2 and an E/S ratio of 4.0 µL mg−1, still sustains a specific capacity of 1314 mAh g−1. Consequently, a 1.0 Ah‐level pouch cell delivers an energy density of 411 Wh kg−1 and maintains stable cycling.
Self‐Supported Ni/Ni(OH)2 Electrodes for High‐Performance Alkaline and AEM Water Electrolysis
Authors: Kuang Wen , Cui Zhixiang , Wang Cheng , Chen Tao , Wang Qingjun , Li Senlin , Yang Tianrang , Liu Jianguo
Published: February 2025

A novel tape‐cast Ni/Ni(OH)2 electrode is developed for water electrolysis applications. Through precise control of sintering temperature and in situ formation of Ni(OH)2 nanosheets, the electrode achieves an optimized hierarchical porous structure with interconnected channels, facilitating efficient gas bubble transport and release. The electrode exhibits remarkable hydrogen evolution reaction activity with overpotentials of 40 and 124 mV at 10 and 100 mA cm−2, respectively, comparable to noble metal catalysts. The unique microstructure enables rapid bubble detachment and enhanced mass transport, leading to a high current density of 0.91 A cm−2 at 1.8 V in alkaline water electrolysis. The inherent Ni/Ni(OH)2 composition demonstrates excellent stability over 1500 h of continuous operation and maintains consistent performance under intermittent conditions, making it particularly suitable for renewable energy integration. For anion exchange membrane water electrolysis, the electrode's smooth surface morphology prevents membrane damage while maintaining efficient mass transport, delivering 0.4 A cm−2 at 1.8 V. This study demonstrates that rational design of electrode microstructure through tape‐casting offers a promising pathway toward high‐performance, durable, and cost‐effective water electrolyzers.
High‐Density Catalytic Sites Grafting on 2D‐Metal Oxides for Acceptorless Alcohol Dehydrogenation
Authors: Hong Yu‐Rim , Kumari Nitee , Kim Junwon , Maji Ankur , Kim Min Gyu , Jo Kyu‐Min , Choi Si‐Young , Shim Ji Hoon , Lee In Su
Published: February 2025

Installing well‐defined high density single‐atomic catalyst (SAC) sites is highly desired for the synergistic cooperative effect in efficient chemical synthesis but elusive to synthesize due to unavoidable atomic segregation into clusters or particulates. We implemented a 2D‐nanoconfined SAC grafting strategy. Inside a bilayer silica envelope, single metal hydroxide layer, pre‐loaded with the catalytic metal (Pt, Pd, Ir) precursors, underwent controlled thermal conversion to the homogeneously embedded SACs decorated onto the in situ generated 1 nm‐thin transition metal oxide (TMO) nanosheet. Ultranarrow confined slit‐space exclusively availed laterally emerging cation vacancies of TMO host, as atomic scale sockets to capture SACs within 2D‐plane while vertically restricting the atomic aggregation into nanoparticulates. High density SACs stably decorated on isolated TMO nanosheet, could be obtained in a controllable manner. Well‐defined SACs on TMO were conveniently employed for acceptorless dehydrogenation of a variety of alcohols with quite high activities outperforming reported catalysts. In‐depth, mechanistic investigation revealed the dramatic enhancement in acceptorless dehydrogenation reaction rates by following distinct reaction pathways (concerted or stepwise) depending on the density of SACs cooperativity effect. Such advantageous effect is distinct from the reactions on isolated metal sites in low‐density SACs or nanoparticle surface.
Engineering Lattice Strain in Co‐Doped NiMoO4 for boosting Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Meenu Preetha Chandrasekharan , Kothoori Naga Pranava Sree , Dahiya Preeti , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Roy Sounak
Published: February 2025

Nickel‐based molybdates have attracted considerable attention owing to their distinctive isomorphous structure. In this study, pristine NiMoO4 and Co‐doped Ni1‐xCoxMoO4 were synthesized and investigated for their electrocatalytic activity in methanol oxidation and methanol‐assisted water splitting reactions. Through a comprehensive exploration of the structure‐property relationship, it was found that the optimal coexistence of α and β molybdate phases, induced by Co doping, led to lattice strain and facilitated the presence of essential catalytic descriptors such as higher oxidation states of Ni and surface oxygen vacancies within the lattice. These factors contributed to the enhanced electrocatalytic activity of Ni0.7Co0.3MoO4 in methanol oxidation and hydrogen evolution reaction. Detailed kinetic studies were conducted to further elucidate the mechanisms involved. Overall, these findings highlight the promising potential of Ni0.7Co0.3MoO4 as an effective catalyst for electrochemical methanol upgrading in conjunction with water splitting, with implications for sustainable energy conversion technologies.
Unlocking Disease‐Modifying Treatments for TDP‐43‐Mediated Neurodegeneration
Authors: San Gil Rebecca , Walker Adam K.
Published: February 2025

Neurons degenerate in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD), causing progressive and inevitably fatal neurological decline. The best therapeutic strategies target underlying disease mediators, but after decades of intensive research, the causes of these neurodegenerative diseases remain elusive. Recently, coordinated activities of large consortia, increasing open access to large datasets, new methods such as cryo‐transmission electron microscopy, and advancements in high‐resolution omics technologies have offered new insights into the biology of disease that bring us closer to understanding mechanisms of neurodegeneration. In particular, improved understanding of the roles of the key pathological protein TAR DNA binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) in disease has revealed intriguing new opportunities that provide hope for better diagnostic tools and effective treatments for ALS and FTD.
AI‐assisted warfarin dose optimisation with CURATE.AI for clinical impact: Retrospective data analysis
Authors: Gan Tiffany Rui Xuan , Tan Lester W. J. , Egermark Mathias , Truong Anh T. L. , Kumar Kirthika , Tan Shi‐Bei , Tang Sarah , Blasiak Agata , Goh Boon Cher , Ngiam Kee Yuan , Ho Dean
Published: February 2025

Background

Standard‐of‐care for warfarin dose titration is conventionally based on physician‐guided drug dosing. This may lead to frequent deviations from target international normalized ratio (INR) due to inter‐ and intra‐patient variability and may potentially result in adverse events including recurrent thromboembolism and life‐threatening hemorrhage.

Objectives

We aim to employ CURATE.AI, a small‐data, artificial intelligence‐derived platform that has been clinically validated in a range of indications, to optimize and guide warfarin dosing.

Patients/methods

A personalized CURATE.AI response profile was generated using warfarin dose (inputs) and corresponding change in INR between two consecutive days (phenotypic outputs) and used to identify and recommend an optimal dose to achieve target treatment outcomes. CURATE.AI's predictive performance was then evaluated with a set of metrics that assessed both technical performance and clinical relevance.

Results and conclusions

In this retrospective study of 127 patients, CURATE.AI fared better in terms of Percentage Absolute Prediction Error and Percentage Prediction Error of 20% compared to other models in the literature. It also had negligible underprediction bias, potentially translating into lower bleeding risk. Modeled potential time in therapeutic range with CURATE.AI was not significantly different from physician‐guided dosing, so it is on‐par yet provides a systematic approach to warfarin dosing, easing the mental‐burden on guesswork by physicians.

This study lays the groundwork for the prospective study of CURATE.AI as a clinical decision support system. CURATE.AI may facilitate the effective use of affordable warfarin with a well‐established safety profile, without the need for costly, new oral anticoagulants. This can have significant impact both on the individual and public health.
Nucleic Acid Drugs in Radiotherapy
Authors: Yang Yuying , Yang Cai , Deng Kai , Xiao Yating , Liu Xiangsheng , Du Zhen
Published: February 2025

Radiotherapy remains a cornerstone of cancer treatment, using high‐energy radiation to induce DNA damage in tumor cells, leading to cell death. However, its efficacy is often hindered by challenges such as radiation resistance and side effects. As a powerful class of functional molecules, nucleic acid drugs (NADs) present a promising solution to these limitations. Engineered to target key pathways like DNA repair and tumor hypoxia, NADs can enhance radiotherapy sensitivity. NADs can also serve as delivery vehicles for radiotherapy agents such as radionuclides, improving targeting accuracy and minimizing side effects. This review explores the role of NADs in optimizing radiotherapy, highlighting their mechanisms, clinical applications, and synergies with radiotherapy, ultimately offering a promising strategy for improving patient outcomes in cancer therapy.
Size, Shape, and Composition Control of Metallic Colloidal Nanoparticles for the Design of Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Gioria Esteban , d'Alnoncourt Raoul Naumann , Thomas Arne , Rosowski Frank
Published: February 2025

Metal‐supported catalysts play a pivotal role in various industrial processes, yet conventional preparation methods such as impregnation or coprecipitation lack precision in controlling critical parameters like particle size, morphology, and composition. Colloidal synthesis proved to be an excellent route for the rational adjustment of these parameters, allowing to establish structure‐performance correlations for smart catalyst design. This review explores the common strategies employed for the fine tuning of size, shape, and composition of colloidal nanoparticles used as heterogeneous catalysts. Since the colloidal route involves the use of stabilizing agents, different strategies for their removal are discussed together with insights into their effects in catalysis. Furthermore, common strategies for the deposition of preformed nanoparticles are presented. In addition, the modifications in geometric and electronic properties and their impact on the catalytic properties are described. To conclude, current applications, challenges, and future perspectives of metal‐supported nanoparticles as heterogenous catalysts are discussed.
Lumos: A β‐Diketone‐Derived Artificial Nucleobase Forming Inter‐Strand Complexes in DNA that Promote Lanthanoid Ion Luminescence
Authors: Bardehle Carla , Hebenbrock Marian , Hepp Alexander , Müller Jens
Published: February 2025

A novel artificial nucleobase, 1‐(3‐(hydroxymethyl)phenyl)‐3‐phenylpropane‐1,3‐dione (HdbmOR), containing a β‐diketone designed to form inter‐strand complexes that resemble metal‐mediated base pairs, was synthesized and characterized towards its lanthanoid ion binding properties. Based on UV/vis spectra, a (labile) coordination of EuIII and SmIII by the benzyl‐functionalized model ligand is proposed, allowing the detection of distinct luminescence patterns upon coordination under alkaline conditions. The compatibility of the nucleoside analog with automated solid‐phase DNA synthesis was proven by the generation of a dinucleotide. NMR spectroscopic characterization of this dinucleotide revealed a temperature‐dependent equilibrium of two conformers, which likely involve hydrogen bonding of the β‐diketone moiety and the deoxyribose and/or phosphate moieties. The antenna effect of the new ligand promoting the luminescence of EuIII is retained upon incorporation into DNA. Modification of a parallel‐stranded DNA duplex with a terminal homo base pair of HdbmOR allows, despite natural fraying of DNA, a thermal stabilization of about 3 °C upon coordination of EuIII or SmIII. Temperature‐dependent luminescence spectroscopy demonstrates a direct correlation between the thermal stability of the duplex and its luminescence intensity. The ligand extends the library of artificial nucleobases for lanthanoid‐mediated base pairs, combining the luminescence properties of lanthanoid complexes with the self‐assembly properties of DNA.
Determination of Boron Content in Surface Paintings From Historical Stained‐Glass Windows
Authors: Maestro‐Guijarro Laura , Sedano Mercedes , Schibille Nadine , Pradell Trinitat , Castillejo Marta , Oujja Mohamed , Palomar Teresa
Published: February 2025

Stained‐glass windows are often painted with grisailles and enamels. These glassy materials have a low melting temperature and are fixed to the base glass by firing processes. Lead and/or boron are commonly added to the painting material to lower their melting temperature so that they can melt without deforming the glass support. In the present study, model glass samples (with well‐known boron content), replica and historical materials were analysed for their composition using Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) and Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). The imprint left on the analysed samples after laser irradiation was observed using optical profilometry. The feasibility of using LIBS in situ as a suitable quantitative analytical technique to detect the presence of boron in historical enamels even in very small quantities was assessed. Quantitative information on historical Spanish enamels and grisailles was obtained from calibration curves generated from the model glass samples with known boron content. The proposed procedure enables a satisfactory chemical quantitative study of historical glass materials in situ, regardless of their size, provenance, and chronology.
High‐Throughput and Automated Anion Transport Assays
Authors: Yang Kylie , Lee Lana C. , Kotak Hiral A. , Morton Evelyn R. , Chee Soo Mei , Nguyen Duy P. M. , Keskküla Alvaro , Haynes Cally J. E.
Published: February 2025

Ion transport across biological lipid membranes is crucial for both health and disease, prompting investigation into synthetic ion transporters as potential therapeutics. However, state of the art methods for assessing transporter activity are often time‐consuming and resource‐intensive, hindering the screening of large compound libraries. In this work we have developed an automated high‐throughput assay capable of determining 24 EC50 values in a single day. This assay, adapted from the established lucigenin Cl−/NO3− antiport method, has been optimised for multi‐well plates with fully automated liquid handling. Notably, our protocol allows for the use of DMSO as a delivery solvent for target molecules, enhancing its versatility. Validation with six standard ion transporters demonstrated a strong correlation between the EC50 values obtained through our assay and previously reported values, confirming its efficacy and potential for broader applications in the field of ion transport.
Comparative Analysis Between Recursive Least Squares State Space (RLSS) and Nonlinear Least Squares (NLS) Methods for Parameter Identification in Buck Converters Applied to Solar Energy Systems
Authors: Silva Crivellari André Luiz , Ferreira Leão André Salume Lima , dos Santos Junior Bartolomeu F. , Francisco Coelho Roberto , Schmitz Lenon , Cruz Martins Denizar , dos Santos Walbermark M.
Published: February 2025

The lifespan of a converter depends on the reliability of its components. In non‐redundant designs like buck converters, a single component failure can shut down the circuit. Capacitors are most prone to failure compared to inductors and semiconductors. Monitoring parameters like equivalent series resistance, rather than relying on manual data, helps assess a converter's useful life. This article compares two parameter estimation methods: recursive state space and non‐linear least squares. The R2 value and residuals analysis ensure the results are reliable and correlate well with real converter values.
A Qualitative Study of the Lived Treatment Experiences of Women With an Eating Disorder and Comorbid Borderline Personality Disorder
Authors: Miller Alexia E. , Hotte‐Meunier Adèle , Bain Tayla , Macdonald Erin P. , Steiger Howard , Racine Sarah E.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Having both an eating disorder (ED) and borderline personality disorder (BPD) is associated with heightened clinical complexity, high levels of distress, and challenges in treatment. This study sought to qualitatively investigate the experiences of women with an ED and comorbid BPD as they undergo ED treatment, aiming to better understand factors that shape their perceptions of care.

Methods

Fourteen women with both an ED and BPD in treatment at a public‐sector ED clinic were recruited to participate in an open‐ended qualitative interview about their lived treatment experiences.

Results

Five overarching themes (with seven subthemes) emerged from the qualitative analysis: (1) Difficulties with emotions as a key factor underlying both ED and BPD; (2) Perceptions of BPD in ED maintenance and treatment; (3) Relational dynamics in treatment; (4) Treatment is “never enough”; and (5) The importance of treating the ED and BPD together.

Discussion

This study highlights the lived experiences of women with both an ED and BPD. Patients expressed the need for ED treatment to target emotion dysregulation, interpersonal difficulties, and their attachment to their therapists and to treatment. This study provides insights into the experiences of patients with BPD of ED treatment that may help guide the approach to care in such individuals.
Mean plant toxicity modulates the effects of plant defense variability
Authors: Pan Vincent S. , Gilbert Kadeem J. , Wetzel William C.
Published: February 2025

Plant trait variation is thought to suppress herbivore performance, but experiments typically manipulate only a single mean level of the trait. We manipulated the mean and variation of the concentration of a plant toxin in a model plant–herbivore system across three field and greenhouse experiments. Plants with leaves painted with a higher mean toxin concentration exhibited increased fitness and resistance to herbivores; however, at high mean concentrations, variation reduced the defensive effect, while at lower mean concentrations, variation enhanced it. This reversal aligns with models that include herbivore food selectivity, but our simulations revealed that the benefits of food selectivity for herbivores were minimal. Instead, nonlinear averaging and physiological tracking effects likely drove patterns in plant fitness and resistance to herbivores. We suggest that high defense variation in plants may be a widespread defensive phenotype, but for well‐defended plants, variation may inadvertently promote herbivore niche expansion.
The Influence of Design Parameters on the Operational Energy Carbon Emissions of a Commercial Building in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Fakhre Alam , Aashan Muhammad , Azhar Muhammad , Ahmad Farooq , Saad Muhammad , Ullah Zahid
Published: February 2025

Buildings are responsible for 37% of CO2 emissions and 36% of energy use worldwide, making them significant contributors to both energy use and carbon emissions, due to which building energy efficiency is currently a top priority for regional, national, and global energy policy. This study evaluates building design features, such as window wall ratio (WWR), orientation, and shading coefficient (SC) for its single‐, low‐E double‐, and low‐E triple‐glazed windows. The building analyzed in this study is a hypothetical commercial building located in Lahore, Pakistan (ASHRAE zone 1B). The results show that compared to unglazed windows with a SC of 0.2 and 0.3, peak cooling total load (PCTL) and CO2 emissions are reduced by 17.84% and 17%, respectively, for single‐glazed windows. Similarly, low‐E double‐glazed windows reduce 21.3% and 20.9% in PCTL and CO2 emissions, while low‐E triple‐glazed windows result in reductions of 21.8% and 21.1%, respectively. Reducing the WWR from 15.14% to 4.94% results in a 5.35% reduction in PCTL and CO2 emissions. Moreover, Using the optimized orientation of the building (180° clockwise from north) further decreases PCTL and CO2 emissions by 8.63%. This analysis concludes that significant energy and environmental gains can be achieved by higher‐quality windows, utilizing optimized orientation, and reducing the WWR. In addition to ensuring long‐term cost savings, this strategic approach promotes a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for future generations.
Study on biomass adsorption‐enhanced steam gasification for hydrogen production based on dual‐effect catalyst
Authors: Xie Huaqing , Qin Mengxin , Yu Zhenyu , Wang Kun , Guo Rui , Shao Zhengri , Zhao Xi , Li Rongquan
Published: February 2025

In this study, in order to achieve CO2 capture under high‐temperature conditions and obtain hydrogen from biomass, a dual‐effect catalyst Ni(x)‐Na2ZrO3, possessing both catalytic and high‐temperature CO2 adsorption capabilities, was prepared and applied in the biomass steam reforming reaction. The investigation focused on the impact of gasification temperature, steam to carbon (S/C) ratio, and Ni loading ratio on the production of hydrogen‐rich syngas via biomass enhanced steam gasification over the catalysts. By thermogravimetric analysis, the catalyst exhibited a remarkable high‐temperature CO2 adsorption capability at 900°C and cyclic stability. The orthogonal experiment was conducted for the reaction characteristics of the biomass adsorption‐enhanced steam gasification over the dual‐effect Ni(x)‐Na2ZrO3 catalyst. Through the analysis of the fitting formula, the catalyst successfully demonstrated promotional effect on the biomass reforming reaction. When the gasification temperature was 950°C, S/C ratio was 9 and Ni loading ratio was 7.7 wt%, the hydrogen yield reached 0.95 m3/kg, and carbon deposition rate was almost 0.
Chemical Fingerprinting, Anti‐Inflammatory, and Antioxidant Potential of Hydroethanolic Extract of Aesculus indica
Authors: Fatima Hina , Shahid Muhammad , Fatima Sana , Mills Paul J. , Pruitt Chris , Pung Meredith A. , Riaz Muhammad , Ashraf Rizwan , Akter Quzi Sharmin
Published: February 2025

Aesculus indica is a remarkable species from Sapindaceae family, traditionally used for the treatment of various ailments due to the presence of a variety of bioactive compounds. The present study was planned to evaluate the chemical characterization, anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant potential of hydroethanolic extract of A. indica using in vitro and in vivo approaches. A. indica fruit was extracted with a hydroethanolic (70% v/v) solution, filtered, concentrated on a rotary evaporator and crude extract was obtained. In vitro anti‐inflammatory potential of A. indica was carried out against peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and a whole blood assay (WBA). Effects of A. indica extracts on proinflammatory cytokines (TNF‐α, IFN‐gamma, IL‐6, IL‐1β) and inflammatory mediators (NF‐κB, NO and PGE2) concentration in the supernatant of PBMCs and WBA were evaluated using commercial ELISA kits. In vivo anti‐inflammatory potential of A. indica hydroethanolic extract was evaluated with carrageenan‐induced paw edema in rats. A total of 36 different compounds (mostly phenolics) were detected in A. indica extract with high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and UHPCL‐QTOF‐MS/MS. The extract showed very low cytotoxicity with an IC50 value of 483.68 μg/mL and significantly reduced the levels of proinflammatory cytokines and inflammatory mediators in both PBMCs and WBA models. Furthermore, the extract also effectively inhibited the paw edema by carrageenan in the 2nd hour at 400 mg/kg (73%). Histopathological analysis of rat paw tissue showed significant reduction of cellular infiltration and decrease in swelling of epidermis and dermis by A. indica extracts. The level of enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation like malondialdehyde (MDA), oxidative stress parameters including total antioxidant status (TAS) and total oxidant status (TOS) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity in rat paw tissues were significantly altered after treatment. The combined findings provide evidence that hydroethanolic extract of A. indica is a potential source of bioactive compounds with significant anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant activities.
The Concept of Neuroglia ‐ the State of the Art Circa 1900
Authors: Kettenmann Helmut , Ugursu Bilge , Ransom Bruce R. , Steinhäuser Christian
Published: February 2025

Glial cells were first defined by Rudolf Virchow in 1856. About 40 years later, glial research had developed into a field distinct from the mainstream study of neurons as the central elements governing brain function. By that time, substantial knowledge about the properties of glial cells had accumulated, exemplified by five important publications by four distinguished investigators: Gustav Retzius, Michael von Lenhossek, Carl Weigert, and Hans Held. These treatises broadly summarized what was known about glial cells, comparing findings from leeches to humans. Practically speaking, these articles represent the foundation of our current knowledge. All five contributions were published in German, which at the time was one of the dominant languages for scientific exchange. This article summarizes and comments on their findings and thus provides insight into what was known about glial cells at that time. More importantly, in the Supporting Information, we provide English translations and original scans of these five publications, making them accessible to an international readership.
A high‐precision display system for command and control
Authors: Hendrickson Herbert C.
Published: February 2025

This paper describes the technical considerations which are causing a shift in CRT display design from random beam positioning with analog symbol and vector generation to raster beam positioning with digital symbol and vector generation. Precision raster beam positioning, together with computer‐generated synthetic digital video is now able to produce CRT displays technically much superior to analog deflection CRT displays
The distribution of illumination
Authors: Stocker A. C.
Published: February 2025

This paper deals with the distribution of illumination between working (reading) surfaces and display surfaces where excess illumination reduces contrast. It is based on equations given in the Illuminating Engineering Society Handbook. It shows how the data may be organized to permit easy estimates of the effects of painting surfaces, interposing shades, etc.
The economic benefits, energy use efficiency, and carbon footprint of fragrant super rice and nonfragrant super rice under different planting methods and nitrogen levels
Authors: Zheng Jiewen , Lin Li , Li Yuzhan , Wang Zaiman , Tang Xiangru , Pan Shenggang , Mo Zhaowen
Published: February 2025

Background

The objective of this study was to investigate the input and output of energy, carbon input and sequestration, and economic benefits of fragrant and nonfragrant rice under different crop management practices, with the aim of providing theoretical guidance for sustainable rice production. Two high‐yield and popular rice varieties, Yuxiangyouzhan and Jiyou615, were grown under three nitrogen fertilizer levels (0, 150, and 220 kg ha−1) and three planting methods (manual transplanting, mechanical transplanting, and mechanical direct seeding) during 2018 and 2019.

Results

The results showed that the economic, energy, and carbon benefits of the different rice varieties varied in response to the different fertilizations and planting methods. The average energy outputs of Yuxiangyouzhan and Jiyou615 were 214 423.26 and 218 474.90 MJ ha−1, respectively. The mean harvest index and mean energy use efficiency of Jiyou615 were slightly greater, at 4.21% and 3.93%, respectively, than those of Yuxiangyouzhan, while the mean carbon input–sequestration ratio of Yuxiangyouzhan was slightly greater, at 1.79%, than that of Jiyou615. Yuxiangyouzhan had a significantly greater mean benefit–cost ratio (5.76%) than Jiyou615. In addition, Yuxiangyouzhan had a significantly greater mean nominal economic return on energy input (12.21%), nominal economic return on energy output (13.20%), nominal economic return on carbon input (12.65%), and nominal economic return on carbon sequestration (11.31%) than Jiyou615.

Conclusion

The results suggest that suitable high‐yield and high‐quality varieties with better consumer demand and the synergistic effect of variety and crop management in sustainable rice production are highly meaningful. © 2025 Society of Chemical Industry.