bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeting Vascular Destruction by Sonosensitizer‐Free Sonocatalytic Nanomissiles Instigates Thrombus Aggregation and Nutrition Deprivation to Starve Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: He Yazhi , Wang Taixia , Song Yiran , Fang Chao , Wang Yang , Dong Xiulin , Wang Yurui , Yu Tianyu , Shi Yang , Zhang Fan , Zhang Kun , Wang Feng
Published: March 2024

Sonosensitizers in current sonodynamic therapy (SDT) often suffer from poor delivery efficiency, phototoxicity, and disputed safety. To overcome these issues, a sonosensitizers‐free sonocatalytic nanomissile is constructed, wherein PLGA nanoparticles as vehicles conjugate with L‐arginine (LA) and aptamer XQ2d capable of adsorbing CO2 and targeting CD71‐overexpressed pancreatic cancer, respectively. The adsorbed CO2 can respond to acidic tumor microenvironment and local ultrasound to release CO2 bubbles and enhance ultrasound‐triggered inertial cavitation, which can further split H2O and activate dissolved O2 to produce ·OH and 1O2, respectively, unlocking the sonosensitizers‐free sonocatalytic ROS birth. Moreover, such CO2 bubbles‐enhanced inertial cavitation also can target intratumoral vascular destruction, instigate thrombus aggregation, induce nutrition and oxygen deprivation, pose hypoxia and alter tumor metabolism, thus establishing an intratumoral vascular destruction‐targeted starvation therapy. The strategy is different from previous starvation therapy in which the presence of undamaged intratumoral blood vessels compromises their outcomes. Especially, the active targeting aptamer XQ2d allows more sonosensitizer‐free sonocatalytic nanomissiles to retain in pancreatic cancer, significantly magnifying the sonosensitizers‐free sonocatalytic therapy and starvation therapy against subcutaneous and orthotopic pancreatic cancers. Therefore, the research provides a promising route and therapeutic platform for clinical pancreatic cancer therapy.
High‐Performance CaMg2Bi2‐Based Thermoelectric Materials Driven by Lattice Softening and Orbital Alignment via Cadmium Doping
Authors: Liu Ming , Guo Muchun , Zhu Jianbo , Zeng Xincheng , Chen Hong , Yuan Donglin , Zhang Qinyong , Cai Fanggong , Guo Fengkai , Zhu Yuke , Dong Xingyan , Cai Wei , Zhang Yongsheng , Yu Yuan , Sui Jiehe
Published: March 2024

Zintl compounds such as n‐type Mg3(Sb,Bi)2 show promising thermoelectric applications benefiting from their high valley degeneracy and low lattice thermal conductivity. However, the heavier p‐type AMg2X2 (A = Ca, and Yb; X = Bi and Sb) Zintl counterparts even exhibit a higher κlat due to strong chemical bonding. Reducing κlat of AMg2X2 is an important route for improving thermoelectric performance. Herein, it is found that Cd doping at the Mg site in CaMg2Bi2 can weaken intralayer covalent bonds and soften acoustic phonons, as well as fill the optical phonon gap. These effects result in large atomic displacement, low phonon group velocity, and strong lattice vibration anharmonicity. Doping 10% Cd leads to a reduction of 56% in the κlat of CaMg2Bi2. Moreover, Cd doping promotes orbital alignment and thus increases the density‐of‐states effective mass and Seebeck coefficient. Eventually, in conjunction with carrier concentration optimization by Na doping and band structure engineering by Ba doping, a high ZT of ≈1.3 at 873 K in (Ca0.85Ba0.15)0.995Na0.005Mg1.85Cd0.15Bi2 sample is realized. This work highlights the significant role of manipulating chemical bonding in suppressing phonon propagation of semiconductors.
Tuning the Electronic Property of Reconstructed Atomic Ni‐CuO Cluster Supported on N/O‐C for Electrocatalytic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Li Xinran , Liu Yang‐Yi , Li Cheng , Xue Huaiguo , Chen Songqing , Xu Qiang , Pang Huan
Published: March 2024

Electrochemical activation usually accompanies in situ atom rearrangement forming new catalytic sites with higher activity due to reconstructed atomic clusters or amorphous phases with abundant dangling bonds, vacancies, and defects. By harnessing the pre‐catalytic process of reconstruction, a multilevel structure of CuNi alloy nanoparticles encapsulated in N‐doped carbon (CuNi nanoalloy@N/C) transforms into a highly active compound of Ni‐doped CuO nanocluster supported on (N/O‐C) co‐doped C. Both the exposure of accessible active sites and the activity of individual active sites are greatly improved after the pre‐catalytic reconstruction. Manipulating the Cu/Ni ratios of CuNi nanoalloy@N/C can tailor the electronic property and d‐band center of the high‐active compound, which greatly optimizes the energetics of oxygen evolution reaction (OER) intermediates. This interplay among Cu, Ni, C, N, and O modifies the interface, triggers the active sites, and regulates the work functions, thereby realizing a synergistic boost in OER.
Defect‐Driven Reconstruction of Na‐Ion Diffusion Channels Enabling High‐Performance Co‐Doped TiO2 Anodes for Na‐Ion Hybrid Capacitors
Authors: Feng Wenliang , Meng Chenchen , Guo Xiaolong , Wu Bin , Sui Xulei , Wang Zhenbo
Published: March 2024

Na‐ion hybrid capacitors (NICs) are known for their potential to integrate high power and energy density along with superior lifespan into a single energy storage device. However, the practical implementation of NICs is delayed due to their inadequate energy densities (<100 Wh kg−1), which is a result of the lack of anodes with rapid Na‐ion diffusion kinetics to match the cathodes. To accelerate Na‐ion diffusion kinetics, cobalt‐doped TiO2 (CoxTi1−xOy) nanosheet anodes with reconstructed low‐energy barrier channels for Na‐ion transfer are designed. Crystal defects, including nanointerfaces, Ti interstitials, and oxygen vacancies, are intentionally introduced to the CoxTi1−xOy structure to improve its conductivity and induce pseudocapacitive‐type Na‐ion storage. Moreover, these crystal defects subtly alter the Na‐ion transfer pathways in the bulk CoxTi1−xOy and reduce the energy barrier, as confirmed by density functional theory (DFT) simulations. Rapid Na‐ion diffusion kinetics can minimize the kinetics discrepancy between anodes and cathodes, presenting great potential for achieving high‐performance anodes for NIC applications. When integrated with activated carbon/reduced graphene oxide composite (AC/rGO) cathodes, the fabricated NICs demonstrate remarkable energy density (164 Wh kg−1 at 31 W kg−1), power density (8307 W kg−1 at 56 Wh kg−1), and an ultralong lifespan (83% capacity retention after 15000 cycles).
Polyploid goldback and silverback ferns (Pentagramma) occupy a wider, colder, and wetter bioclimatic niche than diploid counterparts
Authors: Wefferling Keir M. , Castro Mariana , Castro Sílvia , Holmlund Helen , Loureiro João , Rothfels Carl J. , Schuettpelz Eric
Published: March 2024

Premise

The western North American fern genus Pentagramma (Pteridaceae) is characterized by complex patterns of ploidy variation, an understanding of which is critical to comprehending both the evolutionary processes within the genus and its current diversity.

Methods

We undertook a cytogeographic study across the range of the genus, using a combination of chromosome counts and flow cytometry to infer ploidy level. Bioclimatic variables and elevation were used to compare niches.

Results

We found that diploids and tetraploids are common and widespread, and triploids are rare and sporadic; in contrast with genome size inferences in earlier studies, no hexaploids were found. Diploids and tetraploids show different geographic ranges: only tetraploids were found in the northernmost portion of the range (Washington, Oregon, and British Columbia) and only diploids were found in the Sierra Nevada of California. Diploid, triploid, and tetraploid cytotypes were found to co‐occur in relatively few localities: in the southern (San Diego County, California) and desert Southwest (Arizona) parts of the range, and along the Pacific Coast of California.

Conclusions

Tetraploids occupy a wider bioclimatic niche than diploids both within P. triangularis and at the genus‐wide scale. It is unknown whether the wider niche of tetraploids is due to their expansion upon the diploid niche, if diploids have contracted their niche due to competition or changing abiotic conditions, or if this wider niche occupancy is due to multiple origins of tetraploids.
Effect of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation on sickle cell disease‐related organ complications: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Dovern Elisabeth , Aydin Mesire , DeBaun Michael R. , Alizade Komeil , Biemond Bart J. , Nur Erfan
Published: March 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD)‐related organ complications are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with SCD. We sought to assess whether hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) stabilizes, attenuates, or exacerbates organ decline. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of trials investigating organ function before and after HSCT in patients with SCD. We searched MEDLINE/PubMed and EMBASE up to September 21, 2023. Continuous data were expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) and pooled in a weighted inverse‐variance random‐effects model; binomial data were expressed as risk ratio (RR) using the Mantel–Haenszel random‐effects meta‐analyses. Of 823 screened studies, 34 were included in this review. Of these, 17 (774 patients, 23.6% adults, 86.3% HLA‐identical sibling donor, 56.7% myeloablative conditioning regimen) were included in the meta‐analyses. Pulmonary function remained stable. Mean tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity decreased but did not reach statistical significance. In children, estimated glomerular filtration rate decreased (SMD −0.80, p = .01), and the presence of proteinuria increased (RR 2.00, p = <.01), while splenic uptake and phagocytic function improved (RR 0.31, p = <.01; RR 0.23, p = <.01). Cerebral blood flow improved (SMD −1.39, p = <.01), and a low incidence of stroke after transplantation in high‐risk patients was found. Retinopathy and avascular osteonecrosis were investigated in only one study, showing no significant changes. While HSCT can improve some SCD‐related organ dysfunctions, transplantation‐related toxicity may have an adverse effect on others. Future research should focus on identifying individuals with SCD who might benefit most from HSCT and which forms of organ damage are more likely to exacerbate post‐transplantation.
In‐Situ Cross‐linked F‐ and P‐Containing Solid Polymer Electrolyte for Long‐Cycling and High‐Safety Lithium Metal Batteries with Various Cathode Materials
Authors: Xu Nuo , Zhao Yang , Ni Minghan , Zhu Jie , Song Xingchen , Bi Xingqi , Zhang Jinping , Zhang Hongtao , Ma Yanfeng , Li Chenxi , Chen Yongsheng
Published: March 2024

The practical application of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) has been hindered by limited cycle‐life and safety concerns. To solve these problems, we develop a novel fluorinated phosphate cross‐linker for gel polymer electrolyte in high‐voltage LMBs, achieving superior electrochemical performance and high safety simultaneously. The fluorinated phosphate cross‐linked gel polymer electrolyte (FP‐GPE) by in‐situ polymerization method not only demonstrates high oxidation stability but also exhibits excellent compatibility with lithium metal anode. LMBs utilizing FP‐GPE realize stable cycling even at a high cut‐off voltage of 4.6 V (vs Li/Li+) with various high‐voltage cathode materials. The LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2|FP‐GPE|Li battery exhibits an ultralong cycle‐life of 1200 cycles with an impressive capacity retention of 80.1 %. Furthermore, the FP‐GPE‐based batteries display excellent electrochemical performance even at practical conditions, such as high cathode mass loading (20.84 mg cm−2), ultrathin Li (20 μm), and a wide temperature range of −25 to 80 °C. Moreover, the first reported solid‐state 18650 cylindrical LMBs have been successfully fabricated and demonstrate exceptional safety under mechanical abuse. Additionally, the industry‐level 18650 cylindrical LiMn2O4|FP‐GPE|Li4Ti5O12 cells demonstrate a remarkable cycle‐life of 1400 cycles. Therefore, the impressive electrochemical performance and high safety in practical batteries demonstrate a substantial potential of well‐designed FP‐GPE for large‐scale industrial applications.
Surface coatings of contact lenses for cell sheet transplantation
Authors: Dereli Can Gamze , Tunca Atay Merve , Egil Abdurrahim Can , Güney Eda , Shemshad Sepideh , Taner Gokce , Asa Sibel Cinar , Ari Ferda , Ozaydin Ince Gozde
Published: March 2024

The field of corneal cell sheet engineering has evolved rapidly in the last decade; however, challenges related to transplantation into target tissue still exist, necessitating a new approach to integrate cell sheet technology onto a contact lens surface. In this study, a novel surface‐modified contact lens was developed for corneal regenerative medicine to ensure the easy and safe integration of cell sheets into the target tissue. The lens surface was coated with a thermo‐responsive polymer using the initiated chemical vapor deposition technique, facilitating the separation of tissue‐integrated cell sheets from the coated lens surface by simply lowering the temperature. BEAS‐2B and L929 cells, along with human limbal epithelial cells, were cultured on a crosslinked poly(2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate)‐coated lens, providing temperature sensitivity for 14 days. At the end of the incubation period, the cultured cells were harvested as intact monolayer cell sheets through a simple temperature reduction, without enzymatic treatment or additional surgical procedures. Rapid and complete delamination of the cells planted and incubated on the coated lens surface was achieved at room temperature. Therapeutic contact lenses modified with cell sheet technology allowed targeted delivery of cells to the affected area of the cornea.
Effect of chain extension on processability and mechanical properties of poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐co‐4‐hydroxybutyrate)
Authors: Yang Zhitao , Li Cheng , Liu Yong , Zhang Zhen , Cao Xianwu
Published: March 2024

Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) (P34HB) copolyester is a new type of biodegradable polymer material, but it cannot meet the market requirements because of its poor thermal stability. In this work, P34HB with a low degree of cross‐linking was successfully prepared by incorporating a small amount of a multiple epoxy chain extender, known as Joncryl ADR‐4380 (styrene‐methacrylic acid glycidyl ester copolymer), through reactive extrusion. The rheological properties, thermal stability, thermal behavior, and mechanical properties of the materials were investigated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and gel content test showed that there was a significant chemical interaction between P34HB and ADR4380, and a cross‐linked structure was produced. Compared with pure P34HB, the samples after chain extension showed improved rheological properties, with increased viscosity and melt elasticity due to the formation of a gel network. Thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic time scanning experiment, and melt flow index (MFI) provided strong evidence for the enhanced of thermal stability of P34HB. The onset decomposition temperature of P34HB increased by 13.5°C, and its MFI decreased from 23.30 to around 5 at 170°C, and the complex viscosity remained relatively stable with time after modification. In terms of mechanical properties, the maximum elongation at break increased by 88.08% due to the improvement of toughness.
Preface: Workshop on matter, astrophysics, gravitation, ions and cosmology—MAGIC23
Authors: Zen Vasconcellos César A. , Hadjimichef Dimiter , Machado Magno , Bodmann Benno , Netz‐Marzola Marcelo , Naysinger Geovane , Vargas Magaña Mariana , Hess Peter O. , Stöcker Horst , Gullberg Steven , Ruffini Remo
Published: March 2024

We outline our experience in organizing the first edition of the Workshop on Matter, Astrophysics, Gravitation, Ions and Cosmology, held in virtual and in‐person format, denominated MAGIC23, held from 6 to 10 March, 2023, in Praia do Rosa, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The event aimed to bring together leading academic scientists, professors, students, and research scholars for exchanging experiences and discuss the most recent innovations, trends, practical challenges, and experimental and theoretical solutions adopted in the investigation fields within the scope of the meeting. The workshop offered to the participants a platform for scientific and academic projects, partnerships, and presentation of high‐quality research contributions describing original and unpublished results on topics related to matter, astrophysics, gravitation, ions, and cosmology.
Vaccine adjuvants for infectious disease in the clinic
Authors: Goetz Morgan , Thotathil Naaz , Zhao Zongmin , Mitragotri Samir
Published: March 2024

Adjuvants, materials added to vaccines to enhance the resulting immune response, are important components of vaccination that are many times overlooked. While vaccines always include an antigen to tell the body what to vaccinate to, of equal importance the adjuvant provides the how, a significant factor in producing a complete response. The adjuvant space has been slow to develop with the first use of an adjuvant in a licensed vaccine occurring in the 1930s, and remaining the only adjuvant in licensed vaccines for the next 80 years. However, with vaccination at the forefront of protection against new and complex pathogens, it is important to consider all components when designing an effective vaccine. Here we summarize the adjuvant space in licensed vaccines as well as the novel adjuvant space in clinical trials with a specific focus on the materials utilized and their resulting impact on the immune response. We discuss five major categories of adjuvant materials: aluminum salts, nanoparticles, viral vectors, TLR agonists, and emulsions. For each category, we delve into the current clinical trials space, the impact of these materials on vaccination, as well as some of the ways in which they could be improved. Adjuvants present an exciting opportunity to improve vaccine responses and stability, this review will help inform about the current progress of this space.

Translational impact statement

In the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic, vaccines for infectious diseases have come into the spotlight. While antigens have always been an important focus of vaccine design, the adjuvant is a significant tool for enhancing the immune response to the vaccine that has been largely underdeveloped. This article provides a broad review of the history of adjuvants and, the current vaccine adjuvant space, and the progress seen in adjuvants in clinical trials. There is specific emphasis on the material landscape for adjuvants and their resulting mechanism of action. Looking ahead, while the novel vaccine adjuvant space features exciting new technologies and materials, there is still a need for more to meet the protective needs of new and complex pathogens.
Nucleic acid‐based vaccine for ovarian cancer cells; bench to bedside
Authors: Al‐Hawary Sulieman Ibraheem Shelash , Jasim Saade Abdalkareem , Hjazi Ahmed , Oghenemaro Enwa Felix , Kaur Irwanjot , Kumar Abhinav , Al‐Ani Ahmed Muzahem , Alwaily Enas R. , Redhee Ahmed Huseen , Mustafa Yasser Fakri
Published: March 2024

Ovarian cancer continues to be a difficult medical issue that affects millions of individuals worldwide. Important platforms for cancer immunotherapy include checkpoint inhibitors, chimeric antigen receptor T cells, bispecific antibodies, cancer vaccines, and other cell‐based treatments. To avoid numerous infectious illnesses, conventional vaccinations based on synthetic peptides, recombinant subunit vaccines, and live attenuated and inactivated pathogens are frequently utilized. Vaccine manufacturing processes, however, are not entirely safe and carry a significant danger of contaminating living microorganisms. As a result, the creation of substitute vaccinations is required for both viral and noninfectious illnesses, including cancer. Recently, there has been testing of nucleic acid vaccines, or NAVs, as a cancer therapeutic. Tumor antigens (TAs) are genetically encoded by DNA and mRNA vaccines, which the host uses to trigger immune responses against ovarian cancer cells that exhibit the TAs. Despite being straightforward, safe, and easy to produce, NAVs are not currently thought to be an ideal replacement for peptide vaccines. Some obstacles to this strategy include selecting the appropriate therapeutic agents (TAs), inadequate immunogenicity, and the immunosuppressive characteristic of ovarian cancer. We focus on strategies that have been employed to increase NAVs' effectiveness in the fight against ovarian cancer in this review.
Flowmicro in‐Line Analysis‐Driven Design of Reactions Mediated by Unstable Intermediates: Flash Monitoring Approach
Authors: Ashikari Yosuke , Yoshioka Rikako , Yonekura Yuya , Yoo Dong‐eun , Okamoto Kazuhiro , Nagaki Aiichiro
Published: March 2024

Invited for the cover of this issue is the group of Aiichiro Nagaki, Yosuke Ashikari and co‐workers at Hokkaido University. The image depicts flash monitoring of reactive intermediate in a flow microreactor. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202303774.
Role of long non‐coding RNAs in cholangiocarcinoma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shobeiri Parnian , Arabzadeh Bahri Razman , Khadembashiri Mohamad Mehdi , Khadembashiri Mohamad Amin , Maleki Saba , Eslami Mohammad , Khalili Dehkordi Marzie , Behnoush Amir Hossein , Rezaei Nima
Published: March 2024

Background

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), as a rare malignancy of the biliary tree, has a poor prognosis most of the time. CCA is highly epigenetically regulated and several long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNA) have been investigated to have a diagnostic and prognostic role in CCA. The current study aimed to assess the studies finding relevant lncRNAs in CCA systematically.

Methods

International databases, including PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Embase, were comprehensively searched in order to identify studies investigating any lncRNA in CCA. After screening by title/abstract and full‐text, necessary data were extracted. Random‐effect meta‐analysis was performed for pooling the areas under the curve (AUCs), specificity, and sensitivity of lncRNAs for the diagnosis of CCA.

Results

A total of 33 studies were chosen to be included in the final analysis, comprised of 2677 patients. Meta‐analysis of AUCs for evaluation of CCA resulted in pooled AUC of 0.79 (95% CI: 0.75–0.82; I2 = 69.11, p < .01). Additionally, overall sensitivity of 0.80 (95% CI 0.75–0.84) and specificity of 0.77 (95% CI: 0.68–0.84) were observed. Measurement of lncRANs in the assessment of CCA also improved overall survival significantly (effect size 1.61, 95% CI: 1.39–1.82). A similar result was found for progression‐free survival (effect size 1.57, 95% CI: 1.20–1.93).

Conclusion

Based on our findings, lncRNAs showed promising results as biomarkers in the diagnosis of CCA since they had acceptable sensitivity and specificity, in addition to the fact that improved survival in this poor prognosis cancer. Further studies might be needed to address this issue and find the best clinically useful lncRNA.
The Legacy of Lead in City Soils
Authors: Joosse Tess
Published: March 2024

Though lead was phased out of gasoline, paint, and other products decades ago, this toxic heavy metal still lingers as contamination today. City soils, from parks to community gardens to playgrounds, are notable hotspots. Here, featuring research presented at the ASA, CSSA, and SSSA Annual Meeting and published in Urban Agriculture & Regional Food Systems, we look at several facets of the issue.
Aerobic Oxidative Carboxylation of Styrene Over Cobalt Catalysts: Integrated CO2 Capture and Conversion
Authors: Chen Junjun , Liu Xiaofang , Zhang Peipei , Zhang Shunan , Zhou Haozhi , Li Lin , Luo Hu , Wang Hui , Sun Yuhan
Published: March 2024

The direct synthesis of cyclic carbonates through oxidative carboxylation of alkenes using CO2 and O2 offers a sustainable and carbon‐neutral method for CO2 utilization, which is, however, still a largely unexplored field. Here we develop a single‐atom catalyst (SAC) Co−N/O−C as the earth‐abundant metal catalyst for the oxidative carboxylation of styrene with CO2 and O2. Remarkably, even using the flue gas as an impure CO2 and O2 source, desired cyclic carbonate could be obtained with moderate productivity, which shows the potential for integrated CO2 capture and conversion, leveraging the high CO2 adsorption capacity of Co−N/O−C. In addition, the catalyst can be reused five times without an obvious decline in activity. Detailed characterizations and theoretical calculations elucidate the crucial role of single Co atoms in activating O2 and CO2, as well as controlling selectivity.
Design of unbalanced 9:2 ternary encoder and 2:9 ternary decoder circuits in resistive random access memory and carbon nanotube field effect transistor technology
Authors: Khurshid Tabassum , Singh Vikram
Published: March 2024

Multivalued logic (MVL) offers higher information density as compared with binary logic systems for an equal number of digits. In a ternary microprocessor, memory access is the most time‐ and power‐consuming action. In order to design a ternary computer, the possibilities for designing ternary encoders and decoders must be examined. This paper presents the designs of 9:2 unbalanced ternary encoder (TENC) and 2:9 unbalanced ternary line address decoder (TDEC) based on novel designs of standard ternary inverter (STI), ternary NAND (TNAND), and ternary NOR (TNOR) logic gates using resistive random‐access memory (RRAM) and carbon nanotube field effect transistor (CNTFET) technology. The simulation results indicate an improvement in performance parameters such as power consumption, delay, power–delay product (PDP), and component count of the proposed circuits in comparison with the different existing counterparts. Moreover, a detailed analysis is carried out on the impact of different process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variations on the performance metrics, including propagation delay, power consumption, and PDP of the 9:2 unbalanced ternary encoder and 2:9 unbalanced ternary line address decoder. The proposed ternary encoder circuit shows an improvement of 62% in delay, 71% in power consumption, 88.6% improvement in PDP, and 53% reduction in CNTFET count, whereas the ternary decoder circuit exhibits an improvement of 6.6% and 94% in delay and 43% and 94% improvement in power consumption, respectively. Moreover, the CNTFET count is reduced by 16.07% and 46%.
Influence of sphingolipid enzymes on blood glucose levels, development of diabetes, and involvement of pericytes
Authors: Buschard Karsten , Josefsen Knud , Krogvold Lars , Gerling Ivan , Dahl‐Jørgensen Knut , Pociot Flemming
Published: March 2024

Aims

Sulfatide is a chaperone for insulin manufacturing in beta cells. Here we explore whether the blood glucose values normally could be associated with this sphingolipid and especially two of its building enzymes CERS2 and CERS6. Both T1D and T2D have low blood sulfatide levels, and insulin resistance on beta cells at clinical diagnosis. Furthermore, we examined islet pericytes for sulfatide, and beta‐cell receptors for GLP‐1, both of which are related to the insulin production.

Materials and Methods

We examined mRNA levels in islets from the DiViD and nPOD studies, performed genetic association analyses, and histologically investigated pericytes in the islets for sulfatide.

Results

Polymorphisms of the gene encoding the CERS6 enzyme responsible for synthesising dihydroceramide, a precursor to sulfatide, are associated with random blood glucose values in non‐diabetic persons. This fits well with our finding of sulfatide in pericytes in the islets, which regulates the capillary blood flow in the islets of Langerhans, which is important for oxygen supply to insulin production. In the islets of newly diagnosed T1D patients, we observed low levels of GLP‐1 receptors; this may explain the insulin resistance in their beta cells and their low insulin production. In T2D patients, we identified associated polymorphisms in both CERS2 and CERS6.

Conclusions

Here, we describe several polymorphisms in sulfatide enzymes related to blood glucose levels and HbA1c in non‐diabetic individuals. Islet pericytes from such persons contain sulfatide. Furthermore, low insulin secretion in newly diagnosed T1D may be explained by beta‐cell insulin resistance due to low levels of GLP‐1 receptors.
Interaction effects of MTHFR C677T and A1298C polymorphisms with maternal glycated haemoglobin levels on adverse birth outcomes
Authors: Wu Weixiang , Luo Dan , Ji Cunwei , Diao Fuqiang , Wu Lihong , Ruan Xiaolin , Gu Chunming , Luo Mingyong
Published: March 2024

Aims

The role of maternal genetic factors in the association between high glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels and adverse birth outcomes remains unclear.

Materials and Methods

In this study, the maternal HbA1c levels of 5108 normoglycemic pregnant women in China were measured, and A1298C and C677T polymorphisms in the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene were genotyped.

Results

Elevated HbA1c levels during the second trimester were associated with increased risks of macrosomia, large‐for‐gestational age (LGA), preterm birth (PTB), and reduced gestational age (p < 0.05). Pregnant women with MTHFR A1298C AA or C677T CT + TT genotypes were susceptible to adverse pregnancy outcomes related to HbA1c levels. Among pregnant women with the A1298C AA genotype, each standard deviation (SD) increase in HbA1c levels increased the risk of PTB by 1.32‐times and reduced the gestational age by 0.11 weeks (p < 0.05). For MTHFR C677T CC + TT genotype carriers, higher HbA1c levels were associated with 1.49‐, 1.24‐, and 1.23‐times increased risks of macrosomia, LGA, and PTB, respectively (p < 0.05). A U‐shaped curve for PTB risk in relation to HbA1c levels was observed among the C677T CC + TT participants, with a cut‐off value of 4.58%. Among subjects with the A1298C AA genotype combined with the C677T CT + TT genotype, each SD increase in HbA1c levels was associated with 1.40 and 1.37‐times increased risks of LGA and PTB, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the importance of glycaemic control during pregnancy and the potential impact of genetic factors on birth outcomes. However, further large‐scale studies are required to confirm these findings.
Assessing giant sequoia mortality and regeneration following high‐severity wildfire
Authors: Soderberg David N. , Das Adrian J. , Stephenson Nathan L. , Meyer Marc D. , Brigham Christy A. , Flickinger Joshua
Published: March 2024

Fire is a critical driver of giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum [Lindl.] Buchholz) regeneration. However, fire suppression combined with the effects of increased temperature and severe drought has resulted in fires of an intensity and size outside of the historical norm. As a result, recent mega‐fires have killed a significant portion of the world's sequoia population (13%–19%), and uncertainty surrounds whether severely affected groves will be able to recover naturally, potentially leading to a loss of grove area. To assess the likelihood of natural recovery, we collected spatially explicit data assessing mortality, crown condition, and regeneration within four giant sequoia groves that were severely impacted by the SQF‐ (2020) and KNP‐Complex (2021) wildfires within Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks. In total, we surveyed 5.9 ha for seedlings and assessed the crown condition of 1104 giant sequoias. To inform management, we used a statistical methodology that robustly quantifies the uncertainty in inherently “noisy” seedling data and takes advantage of readily available remote sensing metrics that would make our findings applicable to other recently burned groves. A loss of giant sequoia grove area would be a consequence of giant sequoia tree mortality followed by a failure of natural regeneration. We found that areas that experienced very high‐severity fire (above ~800 RdNBR) are at substantial risk for the loss of grove area, with tree mortality rapidly increasing and giant sequoia seedling density simultaneously decreasing with fire severity. Such high‐severity areas comprised 17.8, 142.0, 14.6, 1.6 ha and ~90%, ~14%, ~53%, and ~27% of Board Camp, Redwood Mountain, Suwanee, and New Oriole Lake groves, respectively. In all sampling areas, we found that seedling densities fell far below the average density measured after prescribed fires, where seedling numbers were almost certainly adequate to maintain giant sequoia populations and postfire conditions were more in keeping with historical norms. Importantly, spatial pattern is also important in assessing the risk of grove loss, and in two groves, Suwanee and New Oriole Lake, the high‐severity patches were not always contiguous, potentially making some areas more resilient to regeneration failure due to the proximity of surviving trees.
Monitoring long‐term vegetation dynamics over the Yangtze River Basin, China, using multi‐temporal remote sensing data
Authors: Fu Jing , Liu Jianxiong , Qin Jianxin , Yang Liguo , Zhang Zhongbo , Deng Yunyuan , Hu Yong , Su Baoling
Published: March 2024

Vegetation plays a crucial role in nature, with intricate interactions between it and the geographical environment. The Yangtze River Basin (YRB) refers to the third largest river basin globally and an essential ecological security barrier in China. Monitoring vegetation dynamics in the basin is of profound significance for addressing climate change, soil erosion, and biodiversity loss in the basin's ecosystems. Here, we investigate the spatiotemporal variations of vegetation at both the basin and land cover scales in the YRB from 2000 to 2020. We elucidate the determinants driving the changes and explore future normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) trends. The results indicate that NDVI in the YRB increased at a rate of 0.0032 year−1 (p < 0.01) over the past 21 years, and it is anticipated to maintain an upward trend in the future. Regions in the upper and middle reaches of the YRB demonstrated higher NDVI, whereas regions in the headwater area and the lower reaches showed lower NDVI. Significant vegetation improvement was primarily concentrated in the central part of the basin, while noticeable vegetation degradation was observed in the eastern region. Temperature and wind speed were identified as the primary controlling factors affecting vegetation greenness. Global‐scale climate oscillations played a significant role in driving periodic variations in NDVI, with La Niña events tending to increase NDVI, while El Niño events hindered its rise. Land cover types were influenced by long‐term interactions between natural factors and human activities, although short‐term vegetation variations might be more affected by the latter. Our findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms behind vegetation variability driven by multiple variables, and the strong vegetation carbon sink capacity advances the conservation and development of ecosystems.
Mechanochemical Assembly of a Nitrile‐Based Directing Group in Arylacetic Acids Using the Passerini 3‐CR: Exploration of the Pd(II)‐Catalyzed meta‐C(sp2)−H Bond Olefination Process
Authors: García‐Uribe Juvenal , Martínez‐Flores Sebastián , Martínez‐Barrita Valeri , Polindara‐García Luis A.
Published: March 2024

The multicomponent assembly of a nitrile‐based directing group in a set of arylacetic acids under solvent‐free mechanochemical conditions using the Passerini 3‐CR and the subsequent Pd(II)‐mediated meta‐C(sp2)−H bond olefination process has been achieved. The protocol demonstrated that removing the DG under mild conditions from the activated Passerini adducts affords a novel N‐(tert‐butyl)‐2‐(2‐cyanophenyl)‐2‐hydroxyacetamide, which can be re‐utilized in the future as DG in other distal activation processes.
Selective Synthesis of Functionalized 3(2H)‐Furanones via Tandem Michael Addition/Rearrangement/Cyclization Reaction of Aliphatic Alkynones: A Combined Experimental and Theoretical Study
Authors: Karnakova Sofia O. , Kuzmin Anton V. , Ushakov Igor' A. , Shabalin Dmitrii A.
Published: March 2024

A novel catalyst‐ and solvent‐controlled dimerization of aliphatic alkynones through tandem Michael addition/rearrangement/cyclization sequence has been developed. The elaborated protocol provides a convenient chemo‐, regio‐ and stereoselective access to rare 3(2H)‐furanones decorated with 2‐exo‐methylene and 4‐ethenyl functionalities. A comprehensive density functional theory (DFT) study of possible reaction mechanism including ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations and quantum theory of atoms in molecules (QTAIM) analysis of various substrate/catalyst/solvent complexes has revealed the Janus‐like behavior of the employed sodium tert‐butoxide/toluene system that is responsible both for the chemoselectivity of the initial addition step and the inhibition of the final cyclization step.
Impact on battery performance with hybrid energy storage: An investigation of rate limiter application
Authors: Soni Yuvraj Praveen , Fernandez Eugene
Published: March 2024

Integrating hybrid energy storage system (HESS) consisting of battery and supercapacitor provides balance over the power generation and load demand, ensuring the system's stability under transient conditions. Along with battery storage, to control its rate of charging/discharging a rate limiter (RTL) is usually employed. However, the impact of the RTL on battery storage efficiency and system performance has not been explored in the existing literature. This paper investigates the performance of a grid‐tied photovoltaic (PV) system with HESS under dynamic scenarios with different RTL values applied to the battery storage. The paper explores the simulation analysis considering transient, linear, and steady‐state conditions with varying PV generation and load demand. The simulation study shows that a lower RTL value may slow down the battery response, leading to inefficient utilization of battery storage. Alternatively, a very high RTL value will not appropriately regulate the battery current, which may lead to frequent charging and discharging and deterioration of battery life. For the proposed system, RTL with a value of 100 A/s seems appropriate, providing 1.29 Wh of energy through battery storage with an energy efficiency of 91.81% for the simulated time. The DC voltage is efficiently maintained at 400 V with a ripple factor of 0.45%.
Edible bird's nest improves the premature ovarian failure induced by tripterygium glycosides
Authors: Jiang Lin , Liu Xuncai , Deng Fenghong , Wang Yaxin , Fan Qunyan
Published: March 2024

Premature ovarian failure (POF) is a common disease in the field of gynecological endocrinology that seriously affects the physical and mental health of patients. Previous studies found that edible bird's nest (EBN) could improve uterine function. These suggested that EBN might also have an ameliorating effect on POF. Therefore, in this study, tripterygium glycosides (TGs) were used to induce POF in rats, and the effect of EBN on the improvement of POF was investigated. After the administration of EBN for 14 days, ovarian index and uterine index, serum hormone levels, apoptosis rate of ovarian granulosa cells, follicle‐stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) protein expression level, and the histopathological examination of the ovaries were determined. It was found that administration of medium and high EBN dose groups increased the ovarian index and granular layer thickness of rats with POF. Particularly, higher follicle‐stimulating hormone levels and lower corpus luteum content were observed in the high EBN dose group. In addition, there were lower luteinizing hormone levels and fewer atretic follicles but higher progesterone levels in the medium EBN dose group. These results indicated that EBN had preventive and curative effects on POF induced by TGs. Its mechanism of action might be related to the reduction of ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis, regulation of hormones and receptors, and inhibition of follicle closure.
Spindle cell neoplasms with novel LTK fusion – Expanding the spectrum of kinase fusion‐positive soft tissue tumors
Authors: Yeung Maximus C. F. , Dermawan Josephine K. , Liu Anthony P. Y. , Lam Albert Y. L. , Antonescu Cristina R. , Shek Tony W. H.
Published: March 2024

Aims

Kinase fusion‐positive soft tissue tumors represent an emerging, molecularly defined group of mesenchymal tumors with a wide morphologic spectrum and diverse activating kinases. Here, we present two cases of soft tissue tumors with novel LTK fusions.

Methods and Results

Both cases presented as acral skin nodules (big toe and middle finger) in pediatric patients (17‐year‐old girl and 2‐year‐old boy). The tumors measured 2 and 3 cm in greatest dimension. Histologically, both cases exhibited bland‐looking spindle cells infiltrating adipose tissue and accompanied by collagenous stroma. One case additionally displayed perivascular hyalinization and band‐like stromal collagen. Both cases exhibited focal S100 staining, and one case had patchy coexpression of CD34. Targeted RNA‐seq revealed the presence of novel in‐frame MYH9::LTK and MYH10::LTK fusions, resulting in upregulation of LTK expression. Of interest, DNA methylation‐based unsupervised clustering analysis in one case showed that the tumor clustered with dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP). One tumor was excised with amputation with no local recurrence or distant metastasis at 18‐month follow‐up. The other case was initially marginally excised with local recurrence after one year, followed by wide local excision, with no evidence of disease at 10 years of follow‐up.

Conclusions

This is the first reported case series of soft tissue tumors harboring LTK fusion, expanding the molecular landscape of soft tissue tumors driven by activating kinase fusions. Furthermore, studies involving a larger number of cases and integrated genomic analyses will be warranted to fully elucidate the pathogenesis and classification of these tumors.
From education to practice—2024 update: An opinion paper of the Drug Information Practice and Research Network of the American College of Clinical Pharmacy
Authors: Johnson Steven Theodore , Goldwire Micheline Andel , Abdalla Maha , Al‐Shehre Wafa H. , Bernknopf Allison , Colella Angela , Denton Christie , Douglas Janine S. , Gosser Rena , Heindel Gregory , Holsopple Megan , Ipema Heather , Kier Karen , Kostrzewa Audrey , Majerczyk Dan , May Dianne , May J. Russell , Mersek Sarah Turley , Munir Faria , Saad Maha , Sommer Christine D. , Thornby Krisy‐Ann , Ward Kristina E.
Published: March 2024

Drug information specialists (DIS) bring unique, specialized expertise and provide services in diverse settings including health systems, academia, pharmaceutical industry, compendia, medical writing, and other areas. With widespread access to drug information (DI) resources through user‐friendly, online platforms, the role of DIS has shifted. Core skill sets once confined to DIS are now distributed across various non‐DIS clinical specialties. DIS have transformed the application of their specialized skill set and adapted it to a variety of traditional and nontraditional areas, providing and applying advanced expertise to solve a variety of contemporary challenges. The training of students and residents has evolved to include evidence‐based practical contemporary methods that promote critical thinking and reasoning. Effective DI evaluation and communication necessitates customizing content for stakeholders to ensure understanding and contribute to optimal patient care, all while addressing misinformation and disinformation. The future of DI as a specialty is bright, with ever‐increasing recognition of the importance of DI skills in non‐DIS practitioners. DIS will likely continue to guide best practices in the education/training of new practitioners and continue to provide advanced services and formulary analytics. This update to our 2009 DI PRN Opinion paper will focus on: (1) DI education and training needed for all students, residents, and pharmacists; (2) career opportunities, roles, and responsibilities specifically tailored for DIS in health systems, managed care organizations, academia, pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry, and medical writing services; and (3) the future direction of DI, including the potential impact of artificial intelligence.
Modeling solvent effects and convergence of 31P‐NMR shielding calculations with COBRAMM
Authors: Calcagno Francesco , Maryasin Boris , Garavelli Marco , Avagliano Davide , Rivalta Ivan
Published: March 2024

Solvent effects on 31P‐NMR parameters for triphenylphosphine oxide and triphenylphosphine in chloroform have been extensively investigated by testing different solvation models. The solvent is described implicitly, mixed implicitly/explicitly, and using full explicit models. Polarizable continuum model (PCM), molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, and hybrid quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations are used to disclose the effects of solute/solvent interactions and, more generally, the role of the embedding in NMR simulations. The results show the beneficial effect of carrying out QM/MM optimizations on top of geometries directly extracted from classical MD simulations, used to ensure representative conformational sampling. The nuclear shielding convergence has been tested against a different number of snapshots and with the inclusion of solvent shells into the QM region. An automated MD//QM/MM//GIAO protocol, implemented in the COBRAMM package, is here proposed and tested on trimethyl phosphite showing that our approach boosts the convergence of nuclear shielding satisfactorily. The present work aims to be a stepping‐stone to assess proper QM/MM computational strategies in simulating chemical shifts in non‐homogeneous systems like supramolecular and biological systems.
A systematic review with meta‐analysis: Efficacy and safety of potassium‐competitive acid blocker compared with proton pump inhibitor in the maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis
Authors: Simadibrata Daniel M , Lesmana Elvira , Pratama Muhammad I A , Sugiharta Adrianus J , Winarizal Afiah S , Lee Yeong Y , Syam Ari F
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) is the mainstay therapy for the maintenance of healed erosive esophagitis (EE). It is unknown whether potassium‐competitive acid blockers (PCABs) are more efficacious and safer than PPIs.

Methods

Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PCABs to PPIs in the maintenance of healing rates of endoscopically proven healed EE and indexed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL until 3 February 2024, were included. A fixed‐effects model meta‐analysis was performed to pool primary efficacy outcome (maintenance of healing rates at week 24) and safety data (any treatment‐emergent adverse event or TEAE). The risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane's Risk of Bias 2 (RoB2) tool.

Results

Four RCTs with a total of 2554 patients were eligible for inclusion. All trials were of low risk of bias. Compared to lansoprazole 15 mg, the maintenance rates of healed EE at week 24 were significantly higher with vonoprazan 10 mg (RR 1.13; 95% CI 1.07–1.19) and vonoprazan 20 mg (RR 1.15; 95% CI 1.10–1.21). Likewise, compared to lansoprazole 15 mg, any TEAEs were significantly greater with vonoprazan 20 mg (RR 1.10; 95% CI 1.01–1.20) but not vonoprazan 10 mg.

Conclusion

Vonoprazan 10 and 20 mg were superior to lansoprazole 15 mg in the maintenance of the healing of EE. Any TEAEs were greater with vonoprazan 20 mg.