bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Data‐driven decomposition and staging of flortaucipir uptake in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Earnest Tom , Bani Abdalla , Ha Sung Min , Hobbs Diana A. , Kothapalli Deydeep , Yang Braden , Lee John J. , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Gordon Brian A. , Sotiras Aristeidis ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Previous approaches pursuing in vivo staging of tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD) have typically relied on neuropathologically defined criteria. In using predefined systems, these studies may miss spatial deposition patterns which are informative of disease progression.

METHODS

We selected discovery (n = 418) and replication (n = 132) cohorts with flortaucipir imaging. Non‐negative matrix factorization (NMF) was applied to learn tau covariance patterns and develop a tau staging system. Flortaucipir components were also validated by comparison with amyloid burden, gray matter loss, and the expression of AD‐related genes.

RESULTS

We found eight flortaucipir covariance patterns which were reproducible and overlapped with relevant gene expression maps. Tau stages were associated with AD severity as indexed by dementia status and neuropsychological performance. Comparisons of flortaucipir uptake with amyloid and atrophy also supported our model of tau progression.

DISCUSSION

Data‐driven decomposition of flortaucipir uptake provides a novel framework for tau staging which complements existing systems.

Highlights

NMF reveals patterns of tau deposition in AD.

Data‐driven staging of flortaucipir tracks AD severity.

Learned flortaucipir patterns overlap with AD‐related gene expression.
Microwave Assisted Fast Synthesis of a Donor‐Acceptor COF Towards Photooxidative Amidation Catalysis
Authors: Dey Anupam , Chakraborty Samiran , Singh Ashish , Rahimi Faruk Ahamed , Biswas Sandip , Mandal Tamagna , Maji Tapas Kumar
Published: April 2024

The synthesis of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) at bulk scale require robust, straightforward, and cost‐effective techniques. However, the traditional solvothermal synthetic methods of COFs suffer low scalability as well as requirement of sensitive reaction environment and multiday reaction time (2–10 days) which greatly restricts their practical application. Here, we report microwave assisted rapid and optimized synthesis of a donor‐acceptor (D−A) based highly crystalline COF, TzPm‐COF in second (10 sec) to minute (10 min) time scale. With increasing the reaction time from seconds to minutes crystallinity, porosity and morphological changes are observed for TzPm‐COF. Owing to visible range light absorption, suitable band alignment, and low exciton binding energy (Eb=64.6 meV), TzPm‐COF can efficaciously produce superoxide radical anion (O2.−) after activating molecular oxygen (O2) which eventually drives aerobic photooxidative amidation reaction with high recyclability. This photocatalytic approach works well with a variety of substituted aromatic aldehydes having electron‐withdrawing or donating groups and cyclic, acyclic, primary or secondary amines with moderate to high yield. Furthermore, catalytic mechanism was established by monitoring the real‐time reaction progress through in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopic (DRIFTS) study.
Kinetic Resolution Polymerization Enabled Chemical Synthesis of Perfectly Isotactic Polythioesters
Authors: Li Kun , Cheng Jing‐Liang , Wang Meng‐Yuan , Xiong Wei , Huang Hao‐Yi , Feng Liang‐Wen , Cai Zhongzheng , Zhu Jian‐Bo
Published: April 2024

Isotactic polythioesters (PTEs) that are thioester analogs to natural polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) have attracted growing attention due to their distinct properties. However, the development of chemically synthetic methods for preparing isotactic PTEs has long been an intricate endeavour. Herein, we report the successful synthesis of perfectly isotactic PTEs via stereocontrolled ring‐opening polymerization. This binaphthalene‐salen aluminium (SalBinam‐Al) catalyst promoted a robust polymerization of rac‐α‐substituted‐β‐propiothiolactones (rac‐BTL and rac‐PTL) with highly kinetic resolution, affording perfectly isotactic P(BTL) and P(PTL) with Mn up to 276 kDa. Impressively, the isotactic P(BTL) formed a supramolecular stereocomplex with improved thermal property (Tm=204 °C). Ultimately, this kinetic resolution polymerization enabled the facile isolation of enantiopure (S)‐BTL, which could efficiently convert to an important pharmaceutical building block (S)‐2‐benzyl‐3‐mercapto‐propanoic acid. Isotactic P(PTL) served as a tough and ductile material comparable to the commercialized polyolefins. This synthetic system allowed to access of isotactic PTEs, establishing a powerful platform for the discovery of sustainable plastics.
Enable the Domino‐Like Structural Recovering in Bismuth Anode to Achieve Fast and Durable Na/K Storages
Authors: Long Hongli , Wang Jing , Zhao Shengyu , Zou Bobo , Yan Liuming , Huang Qiuan , Zhao Yufeng
Published: April 2024

Alloying‐type anodes show capacity and density advantages for sodium/potassium‐ion batteries (SIBs/PIBs), but they encounter serious structural degradation upon cycling, which cannot be resolved through conventional nanostructuring techniques. Herein, we present an in‐depth study to reveal the intrinsic reason for the pulverization of bismuth (Bi) materials upon (de)alloying, and report a novel particle‐in‐bulk architecture with Bi nanospheres inlaid in the bulk carbon (BiNC) to achieve durable Na/K storage. We simulate the volume‐expansion‐resistant mechanism of Bi during the (de)alloying reaction, and unveil that the irreversible phase transition upon (de)alloying underlies the fundamental origin for the structural degradation of Bi anode, while a proper compressive stress (~10 %) raised by the bulk carbon can trigger a “domino‐like” Bi crystal recovering. Consequently, the as obtained BiNC exhibits a record high volumetric capacity (823.1 mAh cm−3 for SIBs, 848.1 mAh cm−3 for PIBs) and initial coulombic efficiency (95.3 % for SIBs, 96.4 % for PIBs), and unprecedented cycling stability (15000 cycles for SIBs with only 0.0015 % degradation per cycle), outperforming the state‐of‐the‐art literature. This work provides new insights on the undesirable structural evolution, and proposes basic guidelines for design of the anti‐degradation structure for alloy‐type electrode materials.
Synthesis, structure, and small molecule in situ modification effects on proton conduction properties of triazine‐based triscarboxylic acid complexe
Authors: Li Duqingcuo , Qin Tianrui , Shi Zhan , Li Yuyan , Dong Xiuyan , Muddassir Mohd. , Kushwaha Aparna , Srivastava Devyani , Kumar Abhinav
Published: April 2024

In this study, we synthesized and characterized a new Co(II)‐based coordination polymer, denoted as {[Co(HL)(dpa)]·H2O}n (1), derived from the H3L ligand and dpa co‐ligand. Single crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed that 1 forms a two‐dimensional (2D) layer and a three‐dimensional (3D) supramolecular structure via hydrogen bonding interactions. Presence of carboxylic acid groups in 1 was confirmed by X‐ray crystallography, prompting investigation into its proton transport properties. Additionally, electrostatic potential surface and nucleophilic index analyses were conducted to simulate potential proton transfer pathways. Furthermore, we prepared nine modified encapsulated materials using 1 as the base material (SDA@1, APH@1, APY@1, TA@1, BA@1, DIC@1, IDZ@1, SCA@1, and TYD@1), and tested their proton conductivity and activation energy compared to pure Nafion membrane and 1, analyzing the influence of different small molecule structures on proton conductivity. Comparative analysis revealed that only SDA@1 exhibited enhanced proton conductivity and reduced activation energy at 303 K, with an improvement rate of 220.8%. We hope that the methods presented herein can provide valuable insights for the design and development of high‐performance proton‐conducting materials, as well as for the exploration of proton conduction mechanisms.
Preparation and properties of phenolic foam modified with boric acid and organosiloxane by supercritical CO2 technology
Authors: Wang Xinlong , Yuan Lailai , Zhao Hui , Ou Ye , Gao Tong , Xu Tingting , Chen Lixin
Published: April 2024

In this study, a silica boron modified phenolic resin foam (SiBPF) is prepared in a reactor under specific pressure and temperature and using supercritical CO2 (scCO2) as a physical foaming agent, to improve phenolic foam (PF) brittle and friable properties and avoid environmental pollution caused by conventional physical foaming. To determine the partially curing degree for foaming, the influence of partially curing time at partially curing degrees between 39.88% and 53.17% was studied. Further, through an orthogonal experimental method, the optimized foaming process parameters—partially curing time of 6 h, adsorption time of 9 h, foaming pressure of 1 MPa, and foaming temperature of 130°C—were determined. The SiBPF, thus prepared under the optimized conditions, exhibited a density of 0.2356 g/cm3, an average cell size of 86.66 μm, and a cell density of 7.10 × 106 cells/cm3. Its compressive strength was found to be 7.28 MPa, with a specific compressive strength of 30.90 MPa/g·cm−3. At 800°C, the carbon residue rate, thermal decomposition temperature T5%, and Tmax reached 77.61%, 355.21, and 702.70°C, respectively. The thermal conductivity of SiBPF was measured to be 0.0644 W/mK, with the rear temperature stabilizing at 60°C on a hot platform of 100°C.
Stability analysis of stochastic nonlinear switched systems with time‐delay and its application
Authors: Yao Liqiang , Yin Yanna , Feng Likang
Published: April 2024

This paper studies the stability of stochastic nonlinear time‐delay systems with arbitrary switching and its application. A novel Krasovskii‐type stability theorem is introduced for stochastic nonlinear systems featuring arbitrary switching and time‐delay. Unlike previous results, this stability result removes the restriction that the infinitesimal generator of Lyapunov–Krasovskii functional (i.e.,
) must be negative definite and allows
to be indefinite. As an application, the tracking control is studied for a class of stochastic switched systems with inverse dynamics and time‐delay. The assumption condition imposed on the inverse dynamic subsystem is weaker compared with most of existing findings. Finally, we illustrate the feasibility and effectiveness of proposed control strategy by two simulation examples.
Aqueous Rechargeable Manganese/Iodine Battery
Authors: Soundharrajan Vaiyapuri , Pham Duong Tung , Piao Junji , Nithiananth Subramanian , Kim Jung Ho , Kim Jaekook
Published: April 2024

Carbon neutralization has promoted the identification of new types of energy storage devices. Aqueous iodine batteries (AIBs) with reversible iodine redox activity are considered a viable candidate for stationary energy storage units and thus have recently drawn extensive research interest. Herein, we introduce an aqueous manganese iodine battery (AMIB), utilizing sodium iodide (NaI) as a redox‐active additive in the Mn(ClO4)2 (NMC) electrolyte, activated carbon (AC) as a redox host and Mn ions as the charge carrier. Taking advantage of enhanced kinetics facilitated by I2/2I− redox activity, our suggested AMIBs can be electrochemically charged/discharged with only a 6 % loss in capacity after 2,000 cycles at a low current density of 0.3 A g−1 in an AC||AC coin cell configuration. Moreover, the AC||Zn−Mn hybrid full‐cell configuration is also established with AC and a Zn−Mn anode involving the NMC electrolyte, which retains a high energy of 185 Wh kg−1 at a specific power of 2,600 W kg−1. Overall, the AMIBs in this study preferred I2/I− conversion chemistry, yielding stable cycle stability, rate performance, and low capacity loss per cycle when compared to Manganese Ion Batteries (MIBs) which are based on Mn2+ intercalation chemistry.
A systematic review and network meta‐analysis comparing Rezūm with transurethral needle ablation and microwave thermotherapy for the management of enlarged prostate
Authors: Bhatia Ansh , Porto Joao G. , Titus Renil S. , Ila Vishal , Shah Khushi , Malpani Ankur , Lopategui Diana M. , Marcovich Robert , Herrmann Thomas R. W. , Shah Hemendra N.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

We aim to compare efficacy and safety of water vapour therapy (Rezūm), transurethral needle ablation (TUNA) and transurethral microwave therapy (TUMT) for treating men with moderate to severe benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

Materials

PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE and Cochrane Library were searched from inception to 30 July 2023, followed by reference searching and dual‐independent study selection. We analysed only randomized clinical trials. RoB‐2, NIH‐quality assessment tool and GRADE guidelines were used for quality‐of‐evidence (QoE) assessment. Relevant prospective studies without a critical risk‐of‐bias were included.

Results

At 12 months, Rezūm showed similar efficacy to TUNA and TUMT for improvement in International Prostate Symptoms Score – Rezūm versus TUMT: 1.33 points (95% CI: −1.66 to 4.35) favouring TUMT (QoE: Moderate) and Rezūm versus TUNA: 0.07 points (95% CI: −3.64 to 3.88) favouring TUNA (QoE: Low). Rezum had similar outcomes to TUNA and TUMT for Maximum Peak‐Flow Rate (Qmax): Rezūm versus TUMT: 1.05 mL/s (95% CI: −4.88 to 2.82) favouring Rezūm (QoE: Low) and Rezūm versus TUNA: 0.37 mL/s (95% CI: −4.61 to 4.21) favouring TUNA (QoE: Low). Furthermore, post‐void residual volume (PVR) comparisons demonstrated that Rezūm was similar, or inferior to other techniques at 12 months – Rezūm versus TUMT: 11.20 mL (95% CI: −32.40 to 10.30) favouring TUMT (QoE: Low) and Rezūm versus TUNA: 24.10 mL (95% CI: 2.81 to 45.10) favouring TUNA (QoE: Low). Rezūm also had a similar surgical retreatment rate with TUMT and TUNA up to 3‐years – TUMT versus Rezūm RR: 1.21 (95% CI: 0.20 to 15.90) (QoE: Low) and TUNA versus Rezūm showed RR: 1.81 (95% CI: 0.2 to 24.60) (QoE: Low). In the first 12 months after treatment, Rezūm had a higher rate of serious adverse events (Clavien‐Dindo ≥ Grade 3) than TUMT and TUNA. TUMT versus Rezūm with RR = 0.53 (95% CI: 0.13 to 3.14) (QoE: Low) and TUNA versus Rezūm with RR = 0.38 (95% CI: 0.04 to 3.49) (QoE: Low).

Conclusions

Moderate to weak evidence suggests that Rezūm is not superior to TUNA and TUMT in all domains studied.
Synthesis of PEGylated amphiphilic block copolymers with pendant linoleic moieties by combining ring‐opening polymerization and click chemistry
Authors: Porras Julian D. , Diaz Ivonne L. , Perez Leon D.
Published: April 2024

This study focused on synthesizing and characterizing PEGylated amphiphilic block copolymers with pendant linoleic acid (Lin) moieties as an alternative to enhance their potential in drug delivery applications. The synthesis involved a two‐step process, starting with ring‐opening polymerization of ε‐caprolactone (CL) and propargylated cyclic carbonate (MCP) to obtain PEG‐b‐P(CL‐co‐MCP) copolymers, which were subsequently modified via click chemistry. Various reaction conditions were explored to improve the yield and efficiency of the click chemistry step. The use of anisole as a solvent, N‐(3‐azidopropyl)linoleamide as a substrate, and a reaction temperature of 60°C proved to be highly efficient, achieving nearly 100% conversion at a low catalyst concentration. The resulting copolymers exhibited controlled molecular weights and low polydispersity, confirming the successful synthesis. Furthermore, click chemistry allows for the attachment of Lin moieties to the copolymer, enhancing its hydrophobic character, as deduced from their significantly lower critical micelle concentration than that of traditional PEG‐b‐PCL systems, which is indicative of enhanced stability against dilution. The modified copolymers exhibited improved thermal stability, making them suitable for applications that require high processing temperatures. Dynamic light scattering and transmission electron microscopy confirmed the formation of micellar structures with sizes below 100 nm and minimal aggregate formation. Additionally, 1H NMR spectroscopy in deuterated water revealed the presence of core‐shell micelles, which provided higher kinetic stability against dilution.
Diabetes and vascular mild cognitive impairment among Chinese ≥50 years: A cross‐sectional study with 2020 participants
Authors: Zhang Yu , Liu Wenna , Fu Chen , Liu Xuemei , Hou Xiaobing , Niu Huanmin , Li Tao , Guo Chunyan , Li Aixun , Chen Baoxin , Jin Xianglan
Published: April 2024

Background

With the decline of cognitive function in vascular cognitive impairment, the burden on the family and society will increase. Therefore, early identification of vascular mild cognitive impairment (VaMCI) is crucial. The focus of early identification of VaMCI is on the attention of risk factors. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the relationship between diabetes and VaMCI among the Chinese, hoping to predict the risk of VaMCI by diabetes and to move the identification of vascular cognitive impairment forward.

Methods

We collected data from seven clinical centers and nine communities in China. All participants were over 50 years of age and had cognitive complaints. We collected basic information of the participants, and cognitive function was professionally assessed by the Montreal Cognitive Assessment scale. Finally, logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the correlation between each factor and VaMCI.

Results

A total of 2020 participants were included, including 1140 participants with VaMCI and 880 participants with normal cognition. In univariate logistic regression analysis, age, heavy smoking, and diabetes had a positive correlation with VaMCI. At the same time, being married, high education, and light smoking had a negative correlation with VaMCI. After correction, only diabetes (OR = 1.04, 95% CI: 1.01–1.09, p = 0.05) had a positive correlation with VaMCI, and high education (OR = 0.60, 95% CI:.45–.81, p = 0.001) had a negative correlation with VaMCI.

Conclusion

In our study, we found that diabetes had a positive correlation with VaMCI, and high education had a negative correlation with VaMCI. Therefore, early identification and timely intervention of diabetes may reduce the risk of VaMCI and achieve early prevention of VaMCI.
Exploring the drivers of supply chain sustainability: An internal and external configuration perspective
Authors: Yin Weili
Published: April 2024

The global supply chains sustainability and viability has been severely impacted due to the emergence of black swan events such as COVID‐19. Previous studies have examined how to enhance supply chain sustainability from a single internal capability perspective or an external relationship perspective, few studies have examined the combined effects of internal and external factors to enhance supply chain sustainability. To fill this research gap, this study investigates the multivariate relationship from internal capabilities and external relationships mutually complementary perspective to improve supply chain sustainability. Grounded on dynamic capabilities theory and relational view, we put forward the supply chain dynamic capability construct under the internal perspective, and relationship construct with supply chain members under the external perspective. Based on the configuration theory, 270 data from enterprises were analyzed using fsQCA (fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis), and the results shows that: first, there is no necessary condition for generating high supply chain sustainability, which means that individual factors do not lead to high supply chain sustainability; second, this study identified two paths to achieve high supply chain sustainability: capability‐driven and relationship‐driven, which reflects the multiple paths and complex mechanisms to achieve high supply chain sustainability; third, this study finds the important role of supply chain dynamic reconfiguring capability in forming high supply chain sustainability. These results can provide some theoretical guidance for enterprises to improve supply chain sustainability and achieve high quality economic development.
A Naphthalimide Based “Turn‐ON” Probe for Wash‐Free Imaging of Lipid‐Droplet in Living Cells With an Excellent Selectivity
Authors: Michel Laurane , Durand Philippe , Chevalier Arnaud
Published: April 2024

The impacts of dimethylation of 4‐Amino‐1,8‐Naphthalimide (ANI) on its photophysical properties are reported. The resulting 4‐DiMe‐ANI displays completely different fluorescence properties, conferring it ability to selectively label lipid droplets in living cells. A comprehensive photophysical study revealed that this selectivity arises from an Internal Charge Transfer favored in lipophilic media to the detriment of a non‐emissive TICT in more polar media. This results in a very high “LDs/Cytosol” signal ratio, enabling LDs to be imaged with an excellent signal‐to‐noise ratio, and positioning its performance above that of the BODIPY 493/503 commonly used to image LDs.
Exploring the Role of Central Metals in Bulky Phthalocyanines for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: López‐Duarte Ismael , Kawata Takahiro , Urbani Maxence , Dreano Melanie , Kimura Mutsumi , Martínez‐Díaz M. Victoria , Torres Tomás
Published: April 2024

Two series of metallo‐(Zn(II), Mg(II), and Ru(II)) and free‐base phthalocyanines (Pcs) with a carboxyl anchoring group and well‐established bulky peripheral substituents (either tert‐butyl or bulky 2,6‐diisopropylphenoxy) were synthesized and tested as sensitizers in dye‐sensitized solar cells (DSSCs). The trend of photovoltaic efficiencies (PCEs) for free‐base and metallo Pcs followed the order Zn(II)Pc>Mg(II)Pc≫H2Pc ≈ Ru(II)Pc regardless of the peripheral substitution. Higher efficiencies (4.95 versus 3.63 for the Zn(II) derivatives) were achieved with Pcs bearing the bulkier 2,6‐diisopropylphenoxy group, indicating a lower aggregation and more suitable HOMO‐LUMO levels. Furthermore, these derivatives showed a morelevant influence of the metal on the PCE values (from the highest 4.95 for the Zn(II)Pc to the lowest 0.23 for the Ru(II)Pc. In both series, the best PCEs observed with the Zn(II) derivatives were mainly due to their highest Jsc values. The lowest efficiencies found for the free‐bases and Ru(II) derivatives were attributed to a mismatch between their LUMO levels and the conduction band of the TiO2,and lower light‐harvesting capabilities, respectively. In conclusion, Zn(II) derivatives are still the best Pc candidates to use as sensitizers in molecular photovoltaics.
Advanced Insulin Synthesis by One‐pot/Stepwise Disulfide Bond Formation Enabled by S‐Protected Cysteine Sulfoxide
Authors: Hidaka Kota , Kobayashi Daishiro , Hayashi Junya , Denda Masaya , Otaka Akira
Published: April 2024

An advanced insulin synthesis is presented that utilizes one‐pot/stepwise disulfide bond formation enabled by acid‐activated S‐protected cysteine sulfoxides in the presence of chloride anion. S‐chlorocysteine generated from cysteine sulfoxides reacts with an S‐protected cysteine to afford S‐sulfenylsulfonium cation, which then furnishes the disulfide or reversely returns to the starting materials depending on the S‐protection employed and the reaction conditions. Use of S‐acetamidomethyl cysteine (Cys(Acm)) and its sulfoxide (Cys(Acm)(O)) selectively give the disulfide under weak acid conditions in the presence of MgCl2 even if S‐p‐methoxybenzyl cysteine (Cys(MBzl)) and its sulfoxide (Cys(MBzl)(O)) are also present. In contrast, the S‐MBzl pair yields the disulfide under more acidic conditions in the presence of a chloride anion source. These reaction conditions allowed a one‐pot insulin synthesis. Additionally, lipidated insulin was prepared by a one‐pot disulfide‐bonding/lipidation sequence.
Access to Enantioenriched Allylic Alcohols via Peptide‐Mimic Phosphonium Salt‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Aerobic Hydroxylation
Authors: Che Jixing , Fang Siqiang , Liu Zanjiao , He Jiajia , Zheng Jia‐Yan , Wang Fan , Wang Tianli
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The development of catalytic asymmetric methods that enable access to value‐added functionalities or structures, exemplified by allylic alcohols, is a highly interesting yet challenging topic from both academic and industrial perspectives. However, before recent advances in chemical catalysis, there were scarce protocols toward constructing enantioenriched tertiary allylic alcohol scaffolds. In this context, peptide‐mimic phosphonium salts were found to be highly efficient in catalytic asymmetric α‐hydroxylation of α,β‐unsaturated and/or β,ϒ‐unsaturated compounds with satisfactory regio‐ and stereochemical outcomes (up to 97% yield and 95% ee). This methodology tolerates a broad array of substrates and thus provides an expeditious and unified platform for the assembly of enantioenriched tertiary allylic alcohols by avoiding the use of additional reductants and expensive metal catalysts. Furthermore, the power of this protocol is enlarged by simple conditions and the use of air as a source of hydroxyl functionality.
I2–DMSO‐Mediated Multicomponent [2+1+1+1] Annulation Reaction via Ethyl Nitroacetate C—NO2 Bond Cleavage as a C1 Synthon: A Route to Multisubstituted β‐Pyrrolidinones Derivatives with a Quaternary Center
Authors: Yu Zhi‐Cheng , Shen Xi , Zhou You , Chen Xiang‐Long , Wang Li‐Sheng , Wu Yan‐Dong , Wu An‐Xin
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive Summary

A [2 + 1 + 1 + 1] cyclization reaction has been developed for the synthesis of multisubstituted β‐pyrrolidinones from commercially available aryl methyl ketones, primary amines, and ethyl nitroacetate. In this I2–DMSO‐meditated process, the C—NO2 bond of ethyl nitroacetate is cleaved, affording a C1 synthon, and the formation of two C—C and two C—N bonds and a quaternary carbon center are constructed in one pot. This method has good substrate compatibility and permits the late‐stage modification of pharmaceutical compounds.
Sulfonamide Bioisosteres of Niclosamide Enhance Antibacterial Activity of Colistin and Bacitracin
Authors: Berry Liam , Ramirez Danyel , Domalaon Ronald , Schweizer Frank
Published: April 2024

Multicomponent therapy combining antibiotics with enhancer molecules known as adjuvants is an emerging strategy to combat antimicrobial resistance. Niclosamide is a clinically relevant anthelmintic drug with potential to be repurposed for its inherent antibacterial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria and its ability to potentiate the antibacterial activity of colistin against susceptible and resistant Gram‐negative bacteria. Herein, sulfonamide analogs of niclosamide were prepared and found to enhance colistin activity against Gram‐negative bacteria. The ability of niclosamide and the new sulfonamide analogs to synergize with bacitracin against vancomycin‐resistant Enterococcus faecium was also discovered.
Recent progress on construction and applications of metal‐organic frameworks‐based materials for lithium‐ion batteries and supercapacitors
Authors: Wei Dan , Zhang Lingling , Wang Yiming , Qiu Shujun , Luo Yumei , Zou Yongjin , Xu Fen , Sun Lixian , Chu Hailiang
Published: April 2024

Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), a special sort of three‐dimensional crystalline porous lattices composed of organic multi‐site connectors and metal nodes, are characterized by unique porosity and high specific surface area, which have attracted a wide range of interest as electrode materials for the electrochemical energy storage devices in recent years. In this contribution, we outline the current research progress on the construction of pristine MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF derivatives and their applications as electrode materials in supercapacitors (SCs) and lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Specifically, we discuss the shortcomings of MOFs‐based electrode materials for SCs and LIBs. The innovative work on performance improvements by combining MOFs with other conductive materials and derivating MOFs into metal sulfides, metal oxides, metal phosphides, and porous carbon is also presented in detail. Finally, our perspectives on the challenges in the future for a grasp of the potential mechanisms are tentatively provided. This review will inspire more developments and applications of MOFs‐based electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage.
Atropisomeric Foldamers
Authors: Ansari Saima , Knipe Peter C.
Published: April 2024

This concept article explores the emerging role of atropisomerism in foldamer chemistry, a field focussed on oligomers that adopt well‐defined conformations through non‐covalent interactions. Atropisomerism introduces a novel dimension to foldamer design by restricting rotational freedom around single bonds to dictate molecular shape with precision. Despite the prevalence of atropisomeric bonds in organic synthesis, their application within foldamers remains underexplored. Here, we discuss key developments in both backbone and sidechain atropisomerism, and suggest future directions for atropisomeric foldamers in the context of a recent surge in atropselective synthetic methods. We propose that judicious use of atropisomerism may serve as a transformative tool in the construction of shape‐defined macromolecules.
“Getting the Dose Right”—Revisiting the Topic With Focus on Biologic Agents
Authors: Mould Diane R. , Upton Richard N.
Published: April 2024

Nearly two decades after the Peck and Cross article ‘“Getting the dose right: facts, a blueprint, and encouragements” was published, a review of dose recommendations for biologics shows that the success in getting the dose right appears to have improved given the relatively low incidence of drug withdrawals and dosing/label changes. However, the clinical experience with monoclonal antibodies (MAbs) following approval has been less than perfect. In inflammatory diseases, the disease burden changes with time and high treatment failure rates have been reported. In addition, the use of concomitant steroids and immunosuppressant drugs with MAbs is common. These concomitant agents have their own safety issues and many immunosuppressant agents are not well‐tolerated although they have been shown to reduce the incidence of anti‐drug antibodies (ADA). This same complexity is seen in MAbs used in oncology as well, although with these agents the doses appear to be higher than needed, which results in high treatment costs and incidence of adverse events. Given the complexity of MAb pharmacokinetics, which makes providing a detailed description of dose options difficult, product labeling should include the options for alternative dose strategies and potentially include the use of therapeutic drug monitoring with dose individualization which have been shown to improve clinical response and reduce the incidence of ADA. So, while the recommended dosing for biologics seems improved over the issues noted 17 years ago, we still have some work to do.
Photo‐Responsive TiO2‐Gold Nanoparticle‐Polymer Nanohybrid Exhibits Photothermal, Thermo‐Release, and Photocatalytic Effects
Authors: Consoli Grazia M. L. , Forte Giuseppe , Maugeri Ludovica , Petralia Salvatore
Published: April 2024

The development of multi‐responsive nanohybrid systems that combine photothermia, thermo‐responsive effects and photocatalysis is a challenging topic in the research of multifunctional materials with a large field of applications. Here, we report the first example of a three‐components light‐responsive nanosystem consisting of titania, gold nanoparticles and poly‐N‐isopropylacrylamide (TiO2‐Au‐PNM). The hybrid nanostructure exhibited photothermal conversion effect upon green‐light excitation and capacity to entrap methylene blue and curcumin selected as cargo models. The formation of the nanohybrid–cargo adducts, the photothermal‐controlled cargo release triggered by green‐light irradiation (532 nm) and mediated by lower critical solution temperature (LCST), as well as the photocatalytic effect prompted by UV‐light excitation (300 nm) were demonstrated by spectroscopic techniques. The mechanism involved in the interaction of the polymeric component with the cargos was investigated by molecular modelling calculations.
Sustainable supply chain management's impact on triple bottom line performance: Does the firm size matter?
Authors: Jum'a Luay , Zimon Dominik , Sroufe Robert , Tyan Jonah
Published: April 2024

Companies worldwide are moving towards sustainability by focusing on its three dimensions: environmental, economic, and social sustainability. This study explores how sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) takes the changing role to affect these three dimensions. Since organizations vary in size, we post and test relationships regarding how firm size can impact the implementation of SSCM practices as a moderator. We posit an empirical research model and test this using structural equation modeling with survey data from 392 managers across various Jordanian manufacturing firms. This study assessed the link between five categories of SSCM practices and TBL performance. We found that firm size is critical and moderates the positive SSCM relationship with economic and social performances. Results shed new light on SSCM and its impacts on environmental, economic, and social performance. According to the study findings, environmental management practices and supply chain integration influenced all sustainability dimensions, whereas socially inclusive community practices influenced none. Furthermore, operations had an impact on economic sustainability. Finally, socially inclusive employee practices had a significant impact on both environmental and economic sustainability. Findings show that when implementing SSCM, larger firms perform better on multiple sustainability measures compared to smaller firms. The model's integration of firm size as a moderator provides additional insights regarding the SSCM construct and its change agent role in stimulating sustainable development.
A passivity control and developed nonlinear disturbance observer for boost converter with constant power load in DC microgrid
Authors: Abdolahi Mohsen , Adabi Jafar , Mousazadeh Mousavi Seyyed Yousef
Published: April 2024

This paper presents an adaptive nonlinear control scheme to ensure the stability of a boost converter in a DC microgrid that supplies a constant power load (CPL) and a resistive load. The proposed controller comprises a passivity‐based control (PBC) and a Nonlinear Disturbance Observer‐Based Robust Control (NDOBRC). The PBC guarantees the overall stability of the proposed controller, whereas the NDOBRC compensates for various sources of disturbances and uncertainties in the system, such as CPL power. The large‐signal stability of the PBC is established using the Lyapunov function. Simulation and experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller in terms of superior performance compared to the PI method.
Design and implementation of a hybrid piezoelectric, radio frequency, solar, and thermal energy‐harvesting system for portable medical devices
Authors: Noohi Mostafa , Mirvakili Ali
Published: April 2024

Today, energy harvesting has developed into a technique from which various aspects are still hidden. By extracting energies from the environment and even the human body, and converting them into electrical energy, we can supply power to low‐consumption electronic devices. Energy harvesting works by inhibiting small amounts of ambient energies; otherwise, it is wasted in other forms such as heat, vibration, and light. In this paper, we aim to eliminate or minimize the dependence of portable electronic devices to the batteries, which have limited life times, service costs, handling, and environmental problems. This is accomplished via incorporating the hybrid energy‐harvesting techniques and designed to power (bio)medical devices in order to measure vital signs. In this circuit, by simultaneously harvesting RF, light, thermal, and solar (natural and artificial) energies, we were able to increase the reliability of continuous supply of electrical energy in energy‐harvesting systems by generating and storing maximum power from the environment. Supercapacitors are used as the energy storage elements so that there is no energy waste, and each system is constantly storing the electrical energy with the aid of a diode block. In addition, with the help of supercapacitors, this device is able to transmit a maximum of 420 mW to the load and the total efficiency is equal to 74%.
Realization of synchronized modulations by stator flux trajectory tracking for low‐carrier‐ratio induction motor drives
Authors: Wu Xu , Xu Yingdong
Published: April 2024

Compared with asynchronous voltage modulations, the synchronous space vector modulation (Syn‐SVPWM) can suppress current harmonics for high‐power induction motors (IM) by generating symmetrical voltage pulses. However, it is difficult to build a high‐performance current regulator based on Syn‐SVPWM because of the requirements of fixed voltage phases and the nonsymmetrical switching sequences in Syn‐SVPWM. Therefore, this manuscript proposes the equivalent realization of Syn‐SVPWM by the concept of stator flux trajectory tracking (SFTT). The new method controls the stator flux vector to move along evenly distributed flux samples in the complex plane. Then, the synchronization and symmetries of voltage pulses are maintained by organizing the switching sequence between adjacent flux samples. Meanwhile, the torque can be changed by online updating the control period based on the inverse torque model. Consequently, the proposed method can provide fast torque response with Syn‐SVPWM in a simple manner because it does not have to compensate the phase contradiction and to extract the fundamental of sampled current. Both simulations and experiments have verified the effectiveness of proposed method.
Metabolism of highly potent synthetic opioid nitazene analogs: N‐ethyl‐N‐(1‐glucuronyloxyethyl) metabolite formation and degradation to N‐desethyl metabolites during enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Kanamori Tatsuyuki , Okada Yuki , Segawa Hiroki , Yamamuro Tadashi , Kuwayama Kenji , Tsujikawa Kenji , Iwata Yuko T.
Published: April 2024

The metabolism of the highly potent synthetic opioids metonitazene, etonitazene, and protonitazene was investigated in fresh human hepatocytes. In the hydrolyzed culture medium, N‐desethyl‐, N,N‐di‐desethyl‐, O‐desalkyl‐, N‐desethyl‐O‐desalkyl‐, N,N‐di‐desethyl‐O‐desalkyl‐, and N‐oxidated metabolites were detected as phase I metabolites, whereas in the unhydrolyzed culture medium, O‐glucuronides of phase I metabolites with O‐dealkylation were detected as phase II metabolites. The detected phase I metabolites were identified by comparing their analytical data with those of synthesized authentic standards. In contrast, phase II metabolites were identified by comparing their analytical data with those of the glucuronidated products formed by the incubation of the corresponding substrates with human liver microsomes in the presence of uridine diphosphate glucuronic acid. In addition to the aforementioned metabolites, some putative N‐ethyl‐N‐(1‐glucuronyloxyethyl) metabolites were detected in the unhydrolyzed culture medium. Purification and hydrolysis experiments revealed that N‐ethyl‐N‐(1‐glucuronyloxyethyl) metabolites formed the corresponding N‐desethyl metabolites via unstable N‐ethyl‐N‐(1‐hydroxyethyl) metabolites during enzymatic hydrolysis.
The macroecology of butyrate‐producing bacteria via metagenomic assessment of butyrate production capacity
Authors: Brame Joel E. , Liddicoat Craig , Abbott Catherine A. , Edwards Robert A. , Robinson Jake M. , Gauthier Nicolas E. , Breed Martin F.
Published: April 2024

Butyrate‐producing bacteria are found in many outdoor ecosystems and host organisms, including humans, and are vital to ecosystem functionality and human health. These bacteria ferment organic matter, producing the short‐chain fatty acid butyrate. However, the macroecological influences on their biogeographical distribution remain poorly resolved. Here we aimed to characterise their global distribution together with key explanatory climatic, geographical and physicochemical variables. We developed new normalised butyrate production capacity (BPC) indices derived from global metagenomic (n = 13,078) and Australia‐wide soil 16S rRNA (n = 1331) data, using Geographic Information System (GIS) and modelling techniques to detail their ecological and biogeographical associations. The highest median BPC scores were found in anoxic and fermentative environments, including the human (BPC = 2.99) and non‐human animal gut (BPC = 2.91), and in some plant–soil systems (BPC = 2.33). Within plant–soil systems, roots (BPC = 2.50) and rhizospheres (BPC = 2.34) had the highest median BPC scores. Among soil samples, geographical and climatic variables had the strongest overall effects on BPC scores (variable importance score range = 0.30–0.03), with human population density also making a notable contribution (variable importance score = 0.20). Higher BPC scores were in soils from seasonally productive sandy rangelands, temperate rural residential areas and sites with moderate‐to‐high soil iron concentrations. Abundances of butyrate‐producing bacteria in outdoor soils followed complex ecological patterns influenced by geography, climate, soil chemistry and hydrological fluctuations. These new macroecological insights further our understanding of the ecological patterns of outdoor butyrate‐producing bacteria, with implications for emerging microbially focused ecological and human health policies.
Gene expression, evolution, and the genetics of electrosensing in the smalltooth sawfish, Pristis pectinata
Authors: Jarva Taiya M. , Phillips Nicole M. , Von Eiff Cory , Poulakis Gregg R. , Naylor Gavin , Feldheim Kevin A. , Flynt Alex S.
Published: April 2024

Sawfishes (Pristidae) are large, highly threatened rays named for their tooth‐studded rostrum, which is used for prey sensing and capture. Of all five species, the smalltooth sawfish, Pristis pectinata, has experienced the greatest decline in range, currently found in only ~20% of its historic range. To better understand the genetic underpinnings of these taxonomically and morphologically unique animals, we collected transcriptomic data from several tissue types, mapped them to the recently completed reference genome, and contrasted the patterns observed with comparable data from other elasmobranchs. Evidence of positive selection was detected in 79 genes in P. pectinata, several of which are involved in growth factor/receptor tyrosine kinase signaling and body symmetry and may be related to the unique morphology of sawfishes. Changes in these genes may impact cellular responses to environmental conditions such as temperature, dissolved oxygen, and salinity. Data acquired also allow for examination of the molecular components of P. pectinata electrosensory systems, which are highly developed in sawfishes and have likely been influential in their evolutionary success.
High‐resolution climate data reveal an increasing risk of warming‐driven activity restriction for diurnal and nocturnal lizards
Authors: Dufour Pauline C. , Tsang Toby P. N. , Alston Nicholas , De Vos Tristan , Clusella‐Trullas Susana , Bonebrake Timothy C.
Published: April 2024

Widespread species experience a variety of climates across their distribution, which can structure their thermal tolerance, and ultimately, responses to climate change. For ectotherms, activity is highly dependent on temperature, its variability and availability of favourable microclimates. Thermal exposure and tolerance may be structured by the availability and heterogeneity of microclimates for species living along temperature and/or precipitation gradients – but patterns and mechanisms underlying such gradients are poorly understood. We measured critical thermal limits (CTmax and CTmin) for five populations of two sympatric lizard species, a nocturnal gecko (Chondrodactylus bibronii) and a diurnal skink (Trachylepis variegata) and recorded hourly thermal variation for a year in three types of microclimate relevant to the activity of lizards (crevice, full sun and partial shade) for six sites across a precipitation gradient. Using a combination of physiological and modelling approaches, we derived warming tolerance for the present and the end of the century. In the present climate, we found an overall wider thermal tolerance for the nocturnal species relative to the diurnal species, and no variation in CTmax but variable CTmin along the precipitation gradient for both species. However, warming tolerances varied significantly over the course of the day, across months and microhabitats. The diurnal skink was most restricted in its daily activity in the three driest sites with up to six daily hours of restricted activity in the open (i.e. outside refugia) during the summer months, while the impacts for the nocturnal gecko were less severe, due to its higher CTmax and night activity. With climate change, lizards will experience more months where activity is restricted and increased exposure to high temperatures even within the more sheltered microhabitats. Together our results highlight the importance of considering the relevant spatiotemporal scale and habitat for understanding the thermal exposure of diurnal and nocturnal species.
Mitochondrial genomes of four slug moths (Lepidoptera, Limacodidae): Genome description and phylogenetic implications
Authors: Jiang Feng , Yu Xu‐Dong , Sun En‐Tao , Gu Sheng‐Li , Liu Ying , Liu Ting
Published: April 2024

The family Limacodidae belongs to the superfamily Zygaenoidea, which includes 1672 species commonly referred to as slug moths. Limacodidae larvae are major pests for many economically important plant species and can cause human dermatitis. At present, the structure of the mitochondrial genome (mitogenome), phylogenetic position, and adaptive evolution of slug moths are poorly understood. Herein, the mitogenomes of Parasa lepida, Phlossa conjuncta, Thosea sinensis, and Setora sinensis were sequenced and compared with other available mitogenome sequences to better characterize the mitogenomic diversity and evolution of this moth family. The mitogenomes of P. lepida, P. conjuncta, T. sinensis, and S. sinensis were confirmed to be circular in structure with lengths of 15,575 bp, 15,553 bp, 15,535 bp, and 15,529 bp, respectively. The Limacodidae mitogenomes exhibited similar nucleotide composition, codon usage, RNA structure, and control region patterns, indicating the conservation of the mitogenome in the family Limacodidae. A sliding window, Ka/Ks, and genetic distance analyses revealed that the atp8 and nad6 genes exhibited the highest levels of variability and the most rapid evolutionary rates among the 13 protein‐coding genes (PCGs) encoded in these Limacodidae mitogenomes, suggesting that they may offer value as candidate DNA markers. The phylogenetic analysis recovered the overall relationship as Tortricoidea + (Sesiidae + (Zygaenoidea + (Cossoidea/+Choreutoidea + (others)))). Within Zygaenoidea, Limacodidae was recovered as monophyletic, and the phylogenetic relationships were recovered as (Phaudidae + Zyganidae) + Limacodidae in all six phylogenetic trees. The analysis indicated that P. lepida, P. conjuncta, T. sinensis, and S. sinensis are members of the Limacodidae.
Meconopsis biluoensis (Papaveraceae), a new species revealed by population‐level investigation
Authors: Wang Hao , Yu Tian‐Yi , Fan Yi , Wei Lai
Published: April 2024

Meconopsis biluoensis, a new species of Papaveraceae in an alpine meadow from Yunnan, Southwest China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, it resembles Meconopsis georgei, while it is distinct in acaulescent and hispid with clearly expanded bases on the leaves. A genus‐level molecular phylogenetic analysis supported the closest relationship between M. biluoensis and M. georgei. In a finer population‐level molecular phylogenetic analysis using ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and the chloroplast genome, individuals from M. biluoensis and M. georgei were clearly separated, and the extremely short branch length indicated that the two species had a very short differentiation time. The species has currently been assessed as “endangered” (EN) due to its small‐sized population and narrow distribution following the IUCN categories and criteria.