bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROTAC Prodrug‐Integrated Nanosensitizer for Potentiating Radiation Therapy of Cancer
Authors: Zhang Shunan , Lai Yi , Pan Jiaxing , Saeed Madiha , Li Shiqin , Zhou Huiling , Jiang Xingyu , Gao Jing , Zhu Yun , Yu Haijun , Zhang Wen , Xu Zhiai
Published: February 2024

Radiation therapy (RT) is one of the primary options for clinical cancer therapy, in particular advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Herein, the crucial role of bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4)‐RAD51 associated protein 1 (RAD51AP1) axis in sensitizing RT of HNSCC is revealed. A versatile nanosensitizer (RPB7H) is thus innovatively engineered by integrating a PROteolysis TArgeting Chimeras (PROTAC) prodrug (BPA771) and hafnium dioxide (HfO2) nanoparticles to downregulate BRD4‐RAD51AP1 pathway and sensitize HNSCC tumor to RT. Upon intravenous administration, the RPB7H nanoparticles selectively accumulate at the tumor tissue and internalize into tumor cells by recognizing neuropilin‐1 overexpressed in the tumor mass. HfO2 nanoparticles enhance RT effectiveness by amplifying X‐ray deposition, intensifying DNA damage, and boosting oxidative stress. Meanwhile, BPA771 can be activated by RT‐induced H2O2 secretion to degrade BRD4 and inactivate RAD51AP1, thus impeding RT‐induced DNA damage repair. This versatile nanosensitizer, combined with X‐ray irradiation, effectively regresses HNSCC tumor growth in a mouse model. The findings introduce a PROTAC prodrug‐based radiosensitization strategy by targeting the BRD4‐RAD51AP1 axis, may offer a promising avenue to augment RT and more effective HNSCC therapy.
3D Printing of Hierarchically Porous Polyetherimide for Enhanced Oil Adsorption and Oil/Water Separation via Supercritical CO2 Foaming
Authors: Sun Huiting , Guo Qi , Wang Jinmei , Ruan Hongwei , Wang Tingmei , Wang Qihua , Wang Chao
Published: February 2024

Most mechanical oil leaks and industrial oily wastewater are in complex and harsh environments. Hence, developing a simple and efficient method to store oil or separating oil–water contaminants has become an ongoing challenge. Hierarchically porous polyetheimide (HPPEI) is a promising competitive candidate due to the combination of functional designability, featuring multilayer pores, and the excellent properties of PEI. Herein, HPPEI (micro‐ and nano‐) is developed by fused deposition modeling (FDM) printing, which enables customizable uniform pores, and green and cost‐effective supercritical CO2 foaming method. HPPEI exhibits remarkable oil content and oil adsorption rate, attributed to the nanopores functioning as “windows.” Nanopores alter the adsorption mode from the “individual adsorption” of PPEI to “interconnected adsorption,” accompanied by an increased storage capacity, and enhanced the overall adsorption rate due to strong capillary effect and higher adsorption rate. HPPEI modified with hydrophobic nano fumed silica (HN─SiO2), demonstrates outstanding hydrophobicity and lipophilicity features selective oil adsorption and oil–water separation, and retains excellent hydrophobic even at high temperatures and in acidic and alkaline environments. This material is expected to provide a strategy for energy conservation: selective oil adsorption from oily wastewater in harsh environments and then the oily material is utilized for lubrication areas, avoiding material waste.
Simple Solution Processed Solid‐State Organic Transistor Chip for Multi‐Ion Sensing
Authors: Arthur Joshua N. , Yambem Soniya D.
Published: February 2024

Ion concentrations in the human body are closely tied to crucial biological functions and thus serve as important diagnostic health markers. Biological samples are chemically complex, containing a wide range of ions and molecules, necessitating the use of sensors that are highly selective to the target analyte. In this work, a multi‐ion sensing chip, capable of selectively detecting potassium (K+), sodium (Na+), and calcium (Ca2+) ions at physiologically relevant concentrations, is demonstrated. Each sensor consists of a simple, solution‐processed, all solid‐state, and low‐voltage organic thin film transistor, functionalized with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) ion selective membranes sandwiched between the insulator and gate electrode. The sensors are responsive to 4–5 decades of each primary ion. When a response from interfering ions is seen at higher concentrations, the sensors can uniquely discriminate between primary and interfering ions by a difference in the polarity of the current modulation. The sensors function well in mixed‐ion solutions, and can detect K+, Na+, and Ca2+ in simulated human blood serum, demonstrating the feasibility of using these devices for the analysis of complex analytes. This work represents an important step toward the development of simple, inexpensive organic multi‐ion sensors.
Multi‐Bioinspired Droplet Self‐Actuated Sweat Transport Platform for Continuous Wearable Biochemical Monitoring
Authors: Shen Hao , Pang Yan , Yuan Detao , Zhang Jing , Guo Hao , Wang Chunju , He Haidong , Ling Mingxiang , Chen Liguo , Huang Haibo
Published: February 2024

Wearable sweat sensors exhibit significant promise in the realm of smart healthcare. Efficient and non‐contaminating continuous sweat collection, transport, and disposal are crucial for enhancing detection accuracy. In this study, a novel wearable sweat sensor is presented that integrates various biomimetic structures, including cactus‐inspired spine, shorebird‐inspired conical through‐holes, and frog‐foot‐inspired micro‐grooves. These structures facilitate sweat droplets to be automatically transported from the skin to the sensing chamber and discharged without external power. First, theoretical analysis, simulation, and experiments based on self‐driven droplet mechanisms to determine the optimal transport efficiency parameters for biomimetic structures are conducted. Next, a novel sweat transport module is fabricated through ultra‐precision 3D printing according to these optimal parameters. And this module has excellent sweat collection performance contrastively. Finally, the novel biomimetic sweat transport module is integrated with a high‐sensitivity glucose detection electrode, resulting in a wearable sweat glucose detection system. Human experiments monitoring glucose metabolism in sweat verify the correlation between glucose concentrations in blood and sweat, which proves the feasibility of reflecting changes in the body's circulatory system by monitoring changes in sweat composition.
Magnetic Domain Wall Networked Films – Configurational Switching for Tunable Magnetization Dynamics by Perforated Thin Films
Authors: Holländer Rasmus B. , Müller Cai , McCord Jeffrey
Published: February 2024

Setting the magnetization and its properties in magnetic materials and films is of the utmost fundamental and technological importance for magnetic applications and devices. Magnetic permeabilities in a material are generally defined by the acting magnetic anisotropies together with an applied magnetic field. Here, deterministic switching of the effective dynamic magnetic properties is demonstrated by tunable networks of magnetic domain walls. By perforating magnetic films, a reversible switching between different magnetization states is achieved. Due to the resulting local effective dynamic fields for the changed domain configurations, different zero‐field permeability spectra are attained for the same material structure. Using local configurational magnetic resonances confined by magnetic domain walls, deterministic switchable bimodal dynamic behavior is achieved. Dynamic magnetooptical Kerr microscopy with picosecond temporal resolution proves that the varying periodic magnetic domain configurations are responsible for the dynamic magnetic bistability. In particular, the field‐free precessional magnetic response can be reproducibly switched between 1.3 and 2.3 GHz. The magnetization dynamics can be modified by small interventions in a repeatable manner beyond fixed material and structural properties. The described fundamental mechanism enables to design new energy efficient configurational microwave devices by switching between zero‐field magnetic arrangements.
A Long Life Moisture‐Enabled Electric Generator Based on Ionic Diode Rectification and Electrode Chemistry Regulation
Authors: Fu Chunqiao , Zhou Jian , Lu Xulei , Feng Haochen , Zhang Yong , Shang Kedong , Jiang Zhongbao , Yao Yuming , He Qi‐Chang , Yang Tingting
Published: February 2024

Considerable efforts have recently been made to augment the power density of moisture‐enabled electric generators. However, due to the unsustainable ion/water molecule concentration gradients, the ion‐directed transport gradually diminishes, which largely affects the operating lifetime and energy efficiency of generators. This work introduces an electrode chemistry regulation strategy into the ionic diode‐type energy conversion structure, which demonstrates 1240 h power generation in ambient humidity. The electrode chemical regulation can be achieved by adding Cl−. The purpose is to destroy the passivation film on the electrode interface and provide a continuous path for ion‐electron coupling conduction. Moreover, this device simultaneously satisfies the requirements of fast trapping of moisture molecules, high rectification ratio transport of ions, and sustained ion‐to‐electron current conversion. A single device can deliver an open‐circuit voltage of about 1 V and a peak short‐circuit current density of 350 µA cm−2. Finally, the first‐principle calculations are carried out to reveal the mechanism by which the electrode surface chemistry affects the power generation performance.
Decoupling the Influence of Poly(3,4‐Ethylenedioxythiophene)‐Collagen Composite Characteristics on Cell Stemness
Authors: Keate Rebecca L. , Tropp Joshua , Wu Ruiheng , Petty Anthony J. , Ameer Guillermo A. , Rivnay Jonathan
Published: February 2024

Conductive polymers (CPs) are widely studied for their ability to influence a myriad of tissue systems. While their mixed ionic/electronic conductivity is commonly considered the primary driver of these benefits, the mechanisms by which CPs influence cell fate remain unclear. In this study, CP‐biomaterial interactions are investigated using collagen, due to its widespread prevalence throughout the body and in tissue engineering constructs. Collagen is functionalized with both electrostatically and covalently bound derivatives of the CP poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) doped via backbone‐tethered sulfonate groups, which enable high solubility and loading to the collagen biomatrix. Intrinsically doped scaffolds are compared to those incorporated with a commercially available PEDOT formulation, which is complexed with polyanionic polystyrene sulfonate (PSS). Low loadings of intrinsically doped PEDOT do not increase substrate conductivity compared to collagen alone, enabling separate investigation into CP loading and conductivity. Interestingly, higher PEDOT loading bolsters human mesenchymal stromal (hMSC) cell gene expression of Oct‐4 and NANOG, which are key transcription factors regulating cell stemness. Conductive collagen composites with commercial PEDOT:PSS do not significantly affect the expression of these transcription factors in hMSCs. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that PEDOT regulates cellular fate independently from physical changes to the material but directly to the loading of the polymer.
Myeloid‐Mas Signaling Modulates Pathogenic Crosstalk among MYC+CD63+Endothelial Cells, MMP12+Macrophages, and Monocytes in Acetaminophen‐Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Chen Shuai , Lu Zhi , Zhao Yudong , Xia Lu , Liu Chun , Zuo Siqing , Jin Manchang , Jia Haoyu , Li Shanshan , Zhang Shuo , Yang Bo , Wang Zhijing , Li Jing , Wang Fei , Yang Changqing
Published: February 2024

Acetaminophen overdose is a leading cause of acute liver failure (ALF). Despite the pivotal role of the inflammatory microenvironment in the progression of advanced acetaminophen‐induced liver injury (AILI), a comprehensive understanding of the underlying cellular interactions and molecular mechanisms remains elusive. Mas is a G protein‐coupled receptor highly expressed by myeloid cells; however, its role in the AILI microenvironment remains to be elucidated. A multidimensional approach, including single‐cell RNA sequencing, spatial transcriptomics, and hour‐long intravital imaging, is employed to characterize the microenvironment inMas1deficient mice at the systemic and cell‐specific levels. The characteristic landscape of mouse AILI models involves reciprocal cellular communication among MYC+CD63+endothelial cells, MMP12+macrophages, and monocytes, which is maintained by enhanced glycolysis and the NF‐κB/TNF‐α signaling pathway due to myeloid‐Mas deficiency. Importantly, the pathogenic microenvironment is delineated in samples obtained from patients with ALF, demonstrating its clinical relevance. In summary, these findings greatly enhance the understanding of the microenvironment in advanced AILI and offer potential avenues for patient stratification and identification of novel therapeutic targets.
Nanomaterials Regulate Bacterial Quorum Sensing: Applications, Mechanisms, and Optimization Strategies
Authors: Hu Chen , He Guixin , Yang Yujun , Wang Ning , Zhang Yanli , Su Yuan , Zhao Fujian , Wu Junrong , Wang Linlin , Lin Yuqing , Shao Longquan
Published: February 2024

Anti‐virulence therapy that interferes with bacterial communication, known as “quorum sensing (QS)”, is a promising strategy for circumventing bacterial resistance. Using nanomaterials to regulate bacterial QS in anti‐virulence therapy has attracted much attention, which is mainly attributed to unique physicochemical properties and excellent designability of nanomaterials. However, bacterial QS is a dynamic and multistep process, and there are significant differences in the specific regulatory mechanisms and related influencing factors of nanomaterials in different steps of the QS process. An in‐depth understanding of the specific regulatory mechanisms and related influencing factors of nanomaterials in each step can significantly optimize QS regulatory activity and enhance the development of novel nanomaterials with better comprehensive performance. Therefore, this review focuses on the mechanisms by which nanomaterials regulate bacterial QS in the signal supply (including signal synthesis, secretion, and accumulation) and signal transduction cascade (including signal perception and response) processes. Moreover, based on the two key influencing factors (i.e., the nanomaterial itself and the environment), optimization strategies to enhance the QS regulatory activity are comprehensively summarized. Collectively, applying nanomaterials to regulate bacterial QS is a promising strategy for anti‐virulence therapy. This review provides reference and inspiration for further research on the anti‐virulence application of nanomaterials.
Modulation of Cerebrospinal Fluid Dysregulation via a SPAK and OSR1 Targeted Framework Nucleic Acid in Hydrocephalus
Authors: Wang Qiguang , Cheng Jian , Liu Fei , Zhu Jianwei , Li Yue , Zhao Yuxuan , Li Xiang , Zhang Huan , Ju Yan , Ma Lu , Hui Xuhui , Lin Yunfeng
Published: February 2024

Hydrocephalus is one of the most common brain disorders and a life‐long incurable condition. An empirical “one‐size‐fits‐all” approach of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting remains the mainstay of hydrocephalus treatment and effective pharmacotherapy options are currently lacking. Macrophage‐mediated ChP inflammation and CSF hypersecretion have recently been identified as a significant discovery in the pathogenesis of hydrocephalus. In this study, a pioneering DNA nano‐drug (TSOs) is developed by modifying S2 ssDNA and S4 ssDNA with SPAK ASO and OSR1 ASO in tetrahedral framework nucleic acids (tFNAs) and synthesis via a one‐pot annealing procedure. This construct can significantly knockdown the expression of SPAK and OSR1, along with their downstream ion channel proteins in ChP epithelial cells, thereby leading to a decrease in CSF secretion. Moreover, these findings indicate that TSOs effectively inhibit the M0 to M1 phenotypic switch of ChP macrophages via the MAPK pathways, thus mitigating the cytokine storm. In in vivo post‐hemorrhagic hydrocephalus (PHH) models, TSOs significantly reduce CSF secretion rates, alleviate ChP inflammation, and prevent the onset of hydrocephalus. These compelling results highlight the potential of TSOs as a promising therapeutic option for managing hydrocephalus, with significant applications in the future.
Discovery of a Small Molecule Activator of Slack (Kcnt1) Potassium Channels That Significantly Reduces Scratching in Mouse Models of Histamine‐Independent and Chronic Itch
Authors: Balzulat Annika , Zhu W. Felix , Flauaus Cathrin , Hernandez‐Olmos Victor , Heering Jan , Sethumadhavan Sunesh , Dubiel Mariam , Frank Annika , Menge Amelie , Hebchen Maureen , Metzner Katharina , Lu Ruirui , Lukowski Robert , Ruth Peter , Knapp Stefan , Müller Susanne , Steinhilber Dieter , Hänelt Inga , Stark Holger , Proschak Ewgenij , Schmidtko Achim
Published: February 2024

Various disorders are accompanied by histamine‐independent itching, which is often resistant to the currently available therapies. Here, it is reported that the pharmacological activation of Slack (Kcnt1, KNa1.1), a potassium channel highly expressed in itch‐sensitive sensory neurons, has therapeutic potential for the treatment of itching. Based on the Slack‐activating antipsychotic drug, loxapine, a series of new derivatives with improved pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic profiles is designed that enables to validate Slack as a pharmacological target in vivo. One of these new Slack activators, compound 6, exhibits negligible dopamine D2 and D3 receptor binding, unlike loxapine. Notably, compound 6 displays potent on‐target antipruritic activity in multiple mouse models of acute histamine‐independent and chronic itch without motor side effects. These properties make compound 6 a lead molecule for the development of new antipruritic therapies targeting Slack.
Bioinspired Injectable Polyurethane Underwater Adhesive with Fast Bonding and Hemostatic Properties
Authors: Guo Xiaolei , Zhao Xin , Yuan Lei , Ming Hao , Li Zhen , Li Jiehua , Luo Feng , Tan Hong
Published: February 2024

Underwater adhesives with injectable, organic solvent‐free, strong, fast adhesion, and hemostatic properties have become an urgent need in biomedical field. Herein, a novel polyurethane underwater adhesive (PUWA) inspired by mussels is developed utilizing the rapid post‐cure reaction of isocyanate esterification without organic solvents. The PUWA is created through the injectable two component curing process of component A (biocompatible polyurethane prepolymer) and component B (dopamine modified lysine derivatives: chain extender‐LDA and crosslinker‐L3DA). The two‐component adhesive cures quickly and firmly underwater, with an impressive bonding strength of 40 kPa on pork skin and excellent burst pressure of 394 mmHg. Moreover, the PUWA exhibits robust adhesion strength in hostile environments with acid, alkali and saline solutions. Combined with excellent biocompatibility and hemostatic performance, the PUWA demonstrates effectively sealing wounds and promoting healing. With the ability to bond diverse substrates rapidly and strongly, the PUWA holds significant potential for application in both biomedical and industrial fields.
Quantifying Landscape‐Flux via Single‐Cell Transcriptomics Uncovers the Underlying Mechanism of Cell Cycle
Authors: Zhu Ligang , Wang Jin
Published: February 2024

Recent developments in single‐cell sequencing technology enable the acquisition of entire transcriptome data. Understanding the underlying mechanism and identifying the driving force of transcriptional regulation governing cell function directly from these data remains challenging. This study reconstructs a continuous vector field of the cell cycle based on discrete single‐cell RNA velocity to quantify the single‐cell global nonequilibrium dynamic landscape‐flux. It reveals that large fluctuations disrupt the global landscape and genetic perturbations alter landscape‐flux, thus identifying key genes in maintaining cell cycle dynamics and predicting associated functional effects. Additionally, it quantifies the fundamental energy cost of the cell cycle initiation and unveils that sustaining the cell cycle requires curl flux and dissipation to maintain the oscillatory phase coherence. This study enables the inference of the cell cycle gene regulatory networks directly from the single‐cell transcriptomic data, including the feedback mechanisms and interaction intensity. This provides a golden opportunity to experimentally verify the landscape‐flux theory and also obtain its associated quantifications. It also offers a unique framework for combining the landscape‐flux theory and single‐cell high‐through sequencing experiments for understanding the underlying mechanisms of the cell cycle and can be extended to other nonequilibrium biological processes, such as differentiation development and disease pathogenesis.
Bridging Laboratory Electrocatalysts with Industrially Relevant Alkaline Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Wang Ning , Song Shizhen , Wu Wentong , Deng Zhanfeng , Tang Cheng
Published: February 2024

The alkaline water electrolyzer (AWE) is the earliest and most mature water‐splitting technology. However, the conventional Raney Ni electrocatalysts dominantly used in AWEs are struggling to meet current demands for higher energy efficiency and cost‐effectiveness in green hydrogen production. Although many promising electrocatalytic materials have been developed using facile preparation methods in the laboratory, they have not received much attention in commercial AWE applications. It is due to the academic negligence on specific operational conditions, critical performance metrics, and material costs associated with industrial AWEs, as well as disregarding the impact of large‐scale electrode manufacturing processes on catalytic performance. Therefore, a timely review to bridge laboratory focus with industrial requirements is essential to guide the future development of water‐splitting electrocatalysts. Here, starting from the differences of operating and testing conditions between laboratory and industrial systems, the gaps in electrocatalytic equipment, evaluation methods, and preparation principles of electrodes are outlined. To narrow these gaps, some academic efforts in advancing industrially relevant electrocatalysts are highlighted and personal perspectives on future opportunities, research focus, and challenges in this field are provided.
Low‐Temperature Flexible Integration of All‐Solid‐State Thin‐Film Lithium Batteries Enabled by Spin‐Coating Electrode Architecture
Authors: Ke Bingyuan , Cheng Shoulin , Zhang Congcong , Li Wangyang , Zhang Jie , Deng Renming , Lin Jie , Xie Qingshui , Qu Baihua , Qiao Li , Peng Dong‐Liang , Wang Xinghui
Published: February 2024

Micro energy sources as the nucleus of intelligent microdevices guarantee their full autonomy in the dimensions of time and space. However, the state‐of‐the‐art micro energy storage components, like all‐solid‐state thin‐film microbatteries (ASSTFBs), whose direct integration is impeded by the stereotyped vacuum‐based manufacturing technologies, for which an inevitable high‐temperature annealing step (> 500 °C) can exert catastrophic effects on the attached microdevices during the crystallization of manufactured insertion thin‐film cathodes, especially in flexible integration. Herein, a prototype construction is created to benchmark concrete feasibility for the low‐temperature manufacturing of ASSTFBs via a nonvacuum‐based spin‐coating electrode architecture. Results show that the spin‐coated LiFePO4 films enable low‐temperature (≈ 45 °C) manufacturing of ASSTFBs, by which it can deliver excellent cycling performance up to 1000 cycles. Importantly, this technology presents the versatility of integrating various cathode composites into ASSTFBs and is therefore generalized to the LiCoO2‐ and Li4Ti5O12‐based solid‐state chemistries. Furthermore, ASSTFBs with such compliant electrodes manifest outstanding flexibility without pronounced capacity degradation by successfully integrating on flexible temperature‐sensitive substrates. The spin‐coating protocol provides a general solution for excessive processing temperatures and ample opportunities for the development of on‐chip integratable and flexible ASSTFBs.
Machine Learning‐Assisted Property Prediction of Solid‐State Electrolyte
Authors: Li Jin , Zhou Meisa , Wu Hong‐Hui , Wang Lifei , Zhang Jian , Wu Naiteng , Pan Kunming , Liu Guilong , Zhang Yinggan , Han Jiajia , Liu Xianming , Chen Xiang , Wan Jiayu , Zhang Qiaobao
Published: February 2024

Machine learning (ML) exhibits substantial potential for predicting the properties of solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs). By integrating experimental or/and simulation data within ML frameworks, the discovery and development of advanced SSEs can be accelerated, ultimately facilitating their application in high‐end energy storage systems. This review commences with an introduction to the background of SSEs, including their explicit definition, comprehensive classification, intrinsic physical/chemical properties, underlying mechanisms governing their conductivity, challenges, and future developments. An in‐depth explanation of the ML methodology is also elucidated. Subsequently, the key factors that influence the performance of SSEs are summarized, including thermal expansion, modulus, diffusivity, ionic conductivity, reaction energy, migration barrier, band gap, and activation energy. Finally, it is offered perspectives on the design prerequisites for upcoming generations of SSEs, focusing on real‐time property prediction, multi‐property optimization, multiscale modeling, transfer learning, automation and high‐throughput experimentation, and synergistic optimization of full battery, all of which are crucial for accelerating the progress in SSEs. This review aims to guide the design and optimization of novel SSE materials for the practical realization of efficient and reliable SSEs in energy storage technologies.
Australian researcher's perspectives on the Australian industry‐led moratorium on genetic tests in life insurance
Authors: Yanes Tatiane , Blencoe Marisa , Howard Antonia , Tiller Jane , Wallingford Courtney , Otlowski Margaret , Keogh Louise , Lacaze Paul , McInerney‐Leo Aideen
Published: February 2024

Fear of insurance discrimination can inhibit genetic research participation. In 2019, an industry‐led partial moratorium on using genetic results in Australian life insurance underwriting was introduced. This mixed‐methods study used online surveys (n = 59 participants) and semi‐structured interviews (n = 22 participants) to capture researchers’ perceptions about the moratorium. 66% (n = 39/59) were aware of the moratorium before the survey. Of researchers returning genetic results, 56% (n = 22/39) reported that insurance implications were mentioned in consent forms, but a minority reported updating consent forms post‐moratorium (n = 13/39, 33%). Most researchers reported that concerns regarding life insurers utilizing research results inhibited recruitment (35/59, 59%), and few perceived that the moratorium positively influenced participation (n = 9/39, 23%). These findings were supported by qualitative findings which revealed that genetic discrimination concerns were a major issue for some individuals, though these concerns could be eclipsed by the promise of a diagnosis through research participation. The majority thought a regulatory solution should be permanent (n = 34/51, 67%), have financial limits of at least ≥1,000,000 AUD (37/51, 73%), and involve government oversight/legislation (n = 44/51, 86%). In an era where an increasing number of research studies involve genomics as a primary or secondary objective, it is crucial that we have regulatory solutions to address participants’ hesitation.
Stubby versus stabby: A preliminary analysis of canine microwear in primates: Implication for inferring ingestive behaviors
Authors: Pujiantari Putu , Delezene Lucas K. , Michael Plavcan J. , Teaford Mark F. , Ungar Peter S.
Published: February 2024

Molar and incisor microwear reflect aspects of food choice and ingestive behaviors in living primates and have both been used to infer the same for fossil samples. Canine microwear, however, has received less attention, perhaps because of the prominent role canines play in social display and because they are used as weapons–while outside of a few specialized cases, their involvement in diet related behaviors has not been obvious. Here, we posit that microwear can also provide glimpses into canine tooth use in ingestion. Canines of Sumatran long‐tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis), agile gibbons (Hylobates agilis), lar gibbons (Hylobates lar), Thomas' leaf monkeys (Presbytis thomasi), and orangutans (Pongo abelii), and two African great apes, bonobos (Pan paniscus) and common chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii), were considered. The labial tips of maxillary canine replicas were scanned using a white‐light confocal profiler, and both feature and texture analyses were used to characterize microwear surface patterning. The taxa exhibited significant differences in canine microwear. In some cases, these were consistent with variation in reported anterior tooth use such that, for example, the orangutans, known to use their front teeth extensively in ingestion, had the highest median number of microwear features on their canines, whereas the gibbons, reported to use their front teeth infrequently in food acquisition, had the lowest.
The Construction of Anion‐Induced Solvation Structures in Low‐concentration Electrolyte for Stable Zinc Anodes
Authors: Yang Min , Zhu Jiacai , Bi Songshan , Wang Rui , Wang Huimin , Yue Fang , Niu Zhiqiang
Published: February 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising large‐scale energy storage devices because of their low cost and high safety. However, owing to the high activity of H2O molecules in electrolytes, hydrogen evolution reaction and side reactions usually take place on Zn anodes. Herein, additive‐free PCA−Zn electrolyte with capacity of suppressing the activity of free and solvated H2O molecules was designed by selecting the cationophilic and solventophilic anions. In such electrolyte, contact ion‐pairs and solvent‐shared ion‐pairs were achieved even at low concentration, where PCA− anions coordinate with Zn2+ and bond with solvated H2O molecules. Simultaneously, PCA− anions also induce the construction of H‐bonds between free H2O molecules and them. Therefore, the activity of free and solvated H2O molecules is effectively restrained. Furthermore, since PCA− anions possess a strong affinity with metal Zn, they can also adsorb on Zn anode surface to protect Zn anode from the direct contact of H2O molecules, inhibiting the occurrence of water‐triggered side reactions. As a result, plating/stripping behavior of Zn anodes is highly reversible and the coulombic efficiency can reach to 99.43 % in PCA−Zn electrolyte. To illustrate the feasibility of PCA−Zn electrolyte, the Zn||PANI full batteries were assembled based on PCA−Zn electrolyte and exhibited enhanced cycling performance.
Custom‐Design of Strong Electron/Proton Extractor on COFs for Efficient Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Li Liyao , Lv Ximeng , Xue Yuanyuan , Shao Huibo , Zheng Gengfeng , Han Qing
Published: February 2024

The development of photocatalysts with continuous electron extraction and rapid proton transfer could kinetically accelerate the artificial photosynthesis, but remains a challenge. Herein, we report the topology‐guided synthesis of a high‐crystalline triazine covalent organic framework (COF) decorated by uniformly distributed polar oxygen functional groups (sulfonic group or carboxyl) as the strong electron/proton extractor for efficient photocatalytic H2O2 production. It was found that the polarity‐based proton transfer as well as electron enrichment in as‐obtained COFs played a crucial role in improving the H2O2 photosynthesis efficiency (i.e., with an activity order of sulfonic acid‐ (SO3H‐COF)>carboxyl‐ (COOH‐COF)>hydrogen‐ (H‐COF) functionalized COFs). The strong polar sulfonic acid group in the high‐crystalline SO3H‐COF triggered a well‐oriented built‐in electric field and more hydrophilic surface, which serves as an efficient carrier extractor enabling a continuous transportation of the photogenerated electrons and interfacial proton to the active sites (i.e., C atoms linked to −SO3H group). As‐accelerated proton‐coupled electron transfer (PCET), together with the stabilized O2 adsorption finally leads to the highest H2O2 production rate of 4971 μmol g−1 h−1 under visible light irradiation. Meanwhile, a quantum yield of 15 % at 400 nm is obtained, superior to most reported COF‐based photocatalysts.
Optimizing fabrication and performance of liquid‐processed carbon nanotube photodetectors on various substrates
Authors: Lionas Vasileios , Velessiotis Dimitrios , Pilatos George , Giannakopoulos Konstantinos , Kyriakis Aristotelis , Glezos Nikolaos , Skarlatos Dimitrios
Published: February 2024

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted interest for optoelectronic applications due to their unique electronic and optoelectronic properties. In particular, multiwall (MW) CNTs film acts as perfect photo‐collector surface with the possibility to tune the absorbance by controlling the film thickness. In this work, we demonstrate two types of hybrid Si‐MWCNTs photodetectors. The MWCNTs are solution‐processed and deposited on n‐silicon substrate covered by two different dielectrics (Si3N4or SiO2). The MWCNTs/SiO2/n‐Si device is used here as reference, since the SiO2/Si system is the most widely investigated structure in microelectronics. The electrical and optical characteristics of the reference device are compared with the corresponding of our basic MWCNTs/Si3N4/n‐Si device. The MWCNTs are deposited on the substrate with the drop casting technique. Optical performance of the SiO2device is comparable to the Si3N4device thus revealing a quite interesting response under UV illumination. The Si3N4device exhibited a peak equivalent quantum efficiency (EQE) of 57% at 3 μW of source illumination power, thus demonstrating a superior performance as compared to the SiO2device (EQE of up to 55%, which is also promising for future applications). This performance can be attributed to the great absorption in UV region of CNTs layer. Apart from this technological goal, we also investigated how MWCNTs/Si3N4or MWCNTs/SiO2heterojunctions perform using standard electrical characterization techniques and how the presence of the CNTs change the dielectric characteristics of both substrates.
Windows into spatial cognition: Mechanisms by which gesture‐based instruction improve anatomy learning
Authors: George Asish , Yohannan Doris George
Published: February 2024

The ability to create efficient “mental models” or representations of anatomical structures is crucial for achieving competence in most areas of anatomy. Gesture‐based teaching has been recognized to lighten cognitive loads and allow superior mental model creation compared to non‐gestural teaching practices. This commentary explores the cognitive basis and possible mechanisms behind this advantage such as (1) reducing visual working memory load, (2) allowing parallel and sequential development of internal representations, and (3) facilitating preferential feature extraction and improved organization of spatial information. We also highlight how information transfer limitations of the gestural medium, interestingly, unveil features and organizational motifs preserved in the “expert's” mental schemas concerning particular anatomical structures. The universal and innate use of gestures in communication, their visual nature, and the ability to break down complex spatial information through sequential steps, all add to the immense potential of this subtle yet powerful tool of hand gestures. As pedagogical practices in the anatomical sciences continue to evolve largely towards technology‐enhanced teaching utilizing perceptually richer media, the unique advantages of gesture‐based teaching need to be reemphasized.
Carbon‐Sulfur Bond Cleavage in Methanesulfonate on Diorganotin Quinaldate Platform – Synthesis and Characterization of [(n‐Bu2SnL)2SO4]
Authors: Chauhan Priyanka , Chauhan Aishwarya , Shankar Ravi
Published: February 2024

The synthesis of mixed ligand di‐n‐butyltin complexes, [(n‐Bu2SnL1−3)2SO4], 2–4 (HL1−3=2‐quinoline/ 1‐isoquinoline/ 4‐methoxy‐2‐quinoline carboxylic acid) has been realized by reacting n‐Bu2Sn(OMe)OSO2Me, 1 a with the corresponding quinaldic acid under solvothermal conditions. The observed transformation of methane sulfonate to sulfate anion represents a rare example of C−S bond cleavage on the organotin scaffolds, n‐Bu2Sn(L1−3)OSO2Me, which have been identified as en route intermediates by NMR and X‐ray crystallography. Analogous reaction when extended with Me2Sn(OMe)OSO2Me, 1 b and HL2 yields [(Me2Sn)2(L2)3(OSO2Me)], 5 as partially disproportionated product of Me2Sn(L2)OSO2Me. The solid‐state structures of 2–5 reveal variable modes of coordination of the ligands to afford molecular and polymeric motifs.
Exponential synchronization of nonlinear dynamical systems via an aperiodic hybrid control with actuator saturation and impulse time windows
Authors: Wu Hongjuan , Li Chuandong , He Zhilong , Chang Fei
Published: February 2024

Considering impulse time windows and the actuator saturation, we put forward a novel aperiodic hybrid control scheme to achieve the exponential synchronization of two nonlinear dynamical systems (NDSs). Different from the existing research, the actuator saturation of two types of control signals and impulse time windows are both considered in the exponential synchronization analysis. Some sufficient conditions are found with designing the hybrid controller, and the attraction domain (AD) of the error system is also estimated. On the other hand, the conditions which can ensure the exponential synchronization between two NDSs with this hybrid control without saturation limit are also given. Finally, experimental results for the synchronization of three dimensional Hopfield‐type neural networks and the image reproduction based on the synchronization of neural networks demonstrate the feasibility of our theoretical results.
Orbit of the visual binary star 61 Cyg
Authors: Izmailov I. S. , Apetyan A. A.
Published: February 2024

We present the orbit and the mass estimates for the components of the visual binary star 61 Cyg obtained with the positional observations, including the high‐precision Gaia data, and the measurements of differences in the radial velocities and the radial accelerations of the components. Since the orbital period of this star significantly exceeds the period of observations, using the radial velocities and the radial accelerations allows us to reduce uncertainty in the determination of the orbital elements and the total mass of the system.
Einfach Bauen – spart eine Wohnraumlüftungsanlage Kosten und Energie?
Authors: Jarmer Tilmann
Published: February 2024

In Bad Aibling wurden 2020 drei Wohngebäude als Forschungshäuser aus Mauerwerk, Holz bzw. Beton errichtet. Dabei wurde die Komplexität durch einfache Konstruktion und reduzierte Gebäudetechnik verringert. Auf eine Lüftungsanlage wurde verzichtet. In den innenliegenden Bädern wurde eine präsenzgeführte Abluft eingebaut. In der Untersuchung wird der Frage nachgegangen, ob es besser gewesen wäre, eine Wohnraumlüftungsanlage in den Forschungshäusern zu installieren. Vier Varianten werden miteinander verglichen: Szenario A: Fensterlüftung und Badabluft präsenzgeführt (wie gebaut); Szenario B: Fensterlüftung und Badabluft präsenzgeführt mit Grundlüftung; Szenario C: Dezentrale Einzelraumlüfter mit Wärmerückgewinnung; Szenario D: Zentrale Wohnraumbelüftung mit Wärmerückgewinnung. Es wurden Umweltwirkung und die Kosten der jeweiligen Lüftungssysteme verursacht durch Technikeinsatz, Wartung und Betriebsenergie über den Lebenszyklus betrachtet. Szenario A (wie gebaut) schneidet in den untersuchten Dimensionen Kosten, nicht erneuerbare Primärenergie und Treibhauspotenzial jeweils am besten ab. Vor allem die Varianten C und D müssten eine hohe Einsparung beim Wärmebedarf realisieren, um die negativen Umweltwirkungen durch die Wohnraumlüftungsanlagen auszugleichen. Bei Vergleichsmessungen in der Praxis konnten keine entsprechenden Einsparungseffekte ermittelt werden. Eine maschinelle Wohnraumlüftung ist nicht geeignet, um die Umweltwirkung oder die Lebenszykluskosten des Projekts zu verbessern.
Ökobilanzierung im Bauwesen
Authors: Hauke Bernhard , Hein Helen Luisa
Published: February 2024

Seit mindestens 15 Jahren gibt es in Deutschland praktische Erfahrungen mit der Ökobilanzierung im Bauwesen, zuerst im Kontext von Nachhaltigkeitszertifizierungen, inzwischen zunehmend auch als Wettbewerbs‐ und Fördergrundlage. Nur was messbar ist, kann auch gemanagt werden: Mit der Ökobilanzierung werden die im Lebenszyklus auftretenden Energie‐ und Stoffströme sowie unerwünschte Wirkungen auf die Umwelt erfasst. Ziele sind u. a. die Schonung primärer Rohstoffe sowie der Schutz des Ökosystems und des Klimas. Aktuell nimmt das Interesse an der Ökobilanzierung zu. Im Fokus steht dabei insbesondere das Treibhauspotenzial. So ist eine Ökobilanz Grundlage für den Nachweis der Begrenzung der nicht erneuerbaren Primärenergie und des Treibhauspotenzials für das Qualitätssiegel Nachhaltiges Gebäude (QNG) als Fördervoraussetzung. Die Einführung von Grenzwerten ins Ordnungsrecht wird diskutiert.
Beyond the door frame: The role of educational policies and guidelines in (un)welcoming Black refugee students
Authors: Heringer Rebeca
Published: February 2024

Although present in large numbers, Black refugee students do not necessarily feel welcome in Canadian public schools. In fact, research has long demonstrated that they face all sorts of oppressions from peers and educators, despite the abundance of seemingly welcoming discourses in educational policies and guidelines. Through a critical analysis of six curriculum documents published by the Government of Manitoba, and in light of the tenets of the ethic of hospitality and critical race theory, in this paper I discuss the role played by educational policies and guidelines in (un)welcoming Black refugee students. In the pursuit of ‘hospitable education’, I explore the strengths and weaknesses found in those documents while observing areas for improvement—with major roadblocks being linked to the pervasiveness of (White) assumptions and expectations as well as a lack of critical self‐reflexivity.
The functional roles of S‐adenosyl‐methionine and S‐adenosyl‐homocysteine and their involvement in trisomy 21
Authors: Caracausi Maria , Ramacieri Giuseppe , Catapano Francesca , Cicilloni Michela , Lajin Bassam , Pelleri Maria Chiara , Piovesan Allison , Vitale Lorenza , Locatelli Chiara , Pirazzoli Gian Luca , Strippoli Pierluigi , Antonaros Francesca , Vione Beatrice
Published: February 2024

The one‐carbon metabolism pathway is involved in critical human cellular functions such as cell proliferation, mitochondrial respiration, and epigenetic regulation. In the homocysteine‐methionine cycle S‐adenosyl‐methionine (SAM) and S‐adenosyl‐homocysteine (SAH) are synthetized, and their levels are finely regulated to ensure proper functioning of key enzymes which control cellular growth and differentiation. Here we review the main biological mechanisms involving SAM and SAH and the known related human diseases. It was recently demonstrated that SAM and SAH levels are altered in plasma of subjects with trisomy 21 (T21) but how this metabolic dysregulation influences the clinical manifestation of T21 phenotype has not been previously described. This review aims at providing an overview of the biological mechanisms which are altered in response to changes in the levels of SAM and SAH observed in DS.
LC–MS/MS method for the quantification of cortisol of hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Zijing , Li Xiaoshuang , Yin Shengjun , Zhang Zhiyuan , Li Xiaoyue , Miao Xiaojie , Cheng Haixu , Lou Yaqing , Tu Pengfei , Lu Yingyuan , Zhang Guoliang
Published: February 2024

The imbalance of steroid hormones is closely related to the occurrence and development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, most research has focused on steroid hormone receptors, and reports about the relationship between the serum concentration of cortisol and the development of HCC are rare. The aim of this research was to establish a simple, specific, sensitive and reliable liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method for the quantitation of cortisol in human serum and to compare the level of cortisol in serum between 221 HCC patients and 183 healthy volunteers. The results showed that the correlation coefficients of the linear regression with a weighing factor of 1/x2 ranged from 0.9933 to 0.9984 over the range of 2–1,000 ng/ml. The inter‐ and intra‐day precision and accuracy were <10%. The matrix effect and recovery of cortisol were 94.9–102.5% and 96.3–99.8%, respectively. The concentration of cortisol in HCC patients was significantly higher than that in healthy volunteers (p < 0.05) and was not affected by sex, age, menopause or α‐fetoprotein (AFP) level. The present study reveals that elevated cortisol might promote the progression of HCC.
Identification, characterization and application of M16AT, a new organic solvent–tolerant (R)–enantio–selective type IV amine transaminase from Mycobacterium sp. ACS1612
Authors: Li Tingting , Zhu Hai , Jia Weiwei , Tian Xia , Xu Ziwen , Zhu Jiang , Liu Wencheng , Cao Yang
Published: February 2024

Biocatalysis has emerged as a powerful alternative to traditional chemical methods, especially for asymmetric synthesis. As biocatalysts usually exhibit excellent chemical, regio‐ and enantioselectivity, they facilitate and simplify many chemical processes for the production of a broad range of products. Here, a new biocatalyst called, R‐selective amine transaminases (R‐ATAs), was obtained from Mycobacterium sp. ACS1612 (M16AT) using in–silico prediction combined with a genome and protein database. A two–step simple purification process could yield a high concentration of pure enzyme, suggesting that industrial application would be inexpensive. Additionally, the newly identified and characterized R‐ATAs displayed a broad substrate spectrum and strong tolerance to organic solvents. Moreover, the synthetic applicability of M16AT has been demonstrated by the asymmetric synthesis of (R)‐fendiline from of (R)‐1‐phenylethan‐1‐amine.
Incidence, risk factors, and management following cardiac catheterization via carotid and axillary artery approaches: A single‐center experience on pseudoaneurysms in young infants
Authors: Takajo Daiji , Newkirk Betsy , Shahanavaz Shabana
Published: February 2024

Background

Use of alternate access for complex neonatal interventions has gained acceptance with carotid and axillary artery access being used for ductal and aortic interventions.

Methods

This study was a retrospective, single‐center study at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The study included infants, aged ≤90 days, who underwent cardiac catheterization with either carotid or axillary artery access between 2013 and 2022. Data encompassing demographics, clinical information, catheterization data, and the incidence of pseudoaneurysm as a procedural complication were collected.

Results

Among 29 young infants (20 males, 69%), 4 out of 15 patients (27%) who underwent the carotid approach developed pseudoaneurysms, while 1 out of 14 patients (7.1%) who underwent the axillary approach developed one. Two patients required transcatheter intervention due to enlargement of pseudoaneurysms, involving the placement of transarterial flow‐diverting stent and occlusion of left common carotid artery. Longer sheath in‐to‐out time (135 vs. 77 min, p = 0.001), and higher closing activated clotting times (ACT) (268 vs. 197 s, p = 0.021) were observed among patients with pseudoaneurysms compared to those without.

Conclusions

Young infants with alternative access via the carotid and axillary arteries may be at risk of pseudoaneurysm formation during longer procedures and with higher ACTs for closure. Ultrasound‐guided compression can be employed to prevent the progression and in resolution of these lesions.