bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Super‐Resolution Imaging of Highly Curved Membrane Structures in Giant Vesicles Encapsulating Molecular Condensates
Authors: Zhao Ziliang , Roy Debjit , Steinkühler Jan , Robinson Tom , Lipowsky Reinhard , Dimova Rumiana
Published: October 2021

Molecular crowding is an inherent feature of cell interiors. Synthetic cells as provided by giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) encapsulating macromolecules (poly(ethylene glycol) and dextran) represent an excellent mimetic system to study membrane transformations associated with molecular crowding and protein condensation. Similarly to cells, such GUVs exhibit highly curved structures like nanotubes. Upon liquid–liquid phase separation their membrane deforms into apparent kinks at the contact line of the interface between the two aqueous phases. These structures, nanotubes, and kinks, have dimensions below optical resolution. Here, these are studied with super‐resolution stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy facilitated by immobilization in a microfluidic device. The cylindrical nature of the nanotubes based on the superior resolution of STED and automated data analysis is demonstrated. The deduced membrane spontaneous curvature is in excellent agreement with theoretical predictions. Furthermore, the membrane kink‐like structure is resolved as a smoothly curved membrane demonstrating the existence of the intrinsic contact angle, which describes the wettability contrast of the encapsulated phases to the membrane. Resolving these highly curved membrane structures with STED imaging provides important insights in the membrane properties and interactions underlying cellular activities.
Near‐Infrared Materials: The Turning Point of Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Meng Dong , Zheng Ran , Zhao Yepin , Zhang Elizabeth , Dou Letian , Yang Yang
Published: October 2021

Near‐infrared (NIR)‐absorbing organic semiconductors have opened up many exciting opportunities for organic photovoltaic (OPV) research. For example, new chemistries and synthetical methodologies have been developed; especially, the breakthrough Y‐series acceptors, originally invented by our group, specifically Y1, Y3, and Y6, have contributed immensely to boosting single‐junction solar cell efficiency to around 19%; novel device architectures such as tandem and transparent organic photovoltaics have been realized. The concept of NIR donors/acceptors thus becomes a turning point in the OPV field. Here, the development of NIR‐absorbing materials for OPVs is reviewed. According to the low‐energy absorption window, here, NIR photovoltaic materials (p‐type (polymers) and n‐type (fullerene and nonfullerene)) are classified into four categories: 700–800 nm, 800–900 nm, 900–1000 nm, and greater than 1000 nm. Each subsection covers the design, synthesis, and utilization of various types of donor (D) and acceptor (A) units. The structure–property relationship between various kinds of D, A units and absorption window are constructed to satisfy requirements for different applications. Subsequently, a variety of applications realized by NIR materials, including transparent OPVs, tandem OPVs, photodetectors, are presented. Finally, challenges and future development of novel NIR materials for the next‐generation organic photovoltaics and beyond are discussed.
Construction of 3D Conductive Network in Liquid Gallium with Enhanced Thermal and Electrical Performance
Authors: Xing Wenkui , Chen Shen , Wang Han , Liu Wendong , Zheng Jiashu , Zheng Feiyu , Li Xiaomin , Tao Peng , Shang Wen , Fu Benwei , Wu Jianbo , Song Chengyi , Li Baowen , Deng Tao
Published: October 2021

This paper reports the generation of 3D thermal and electrical conductive graphene network in gallium‐based liquid metal (LM) via a simple one‐step ball‐milling approach. In this work, 2D graphene nanoplates and their derivatives were employed to construct 3D thermal and electrical conductive filler networks. It is demonstrated that the obtained composite exhibits the highest 3D thermal conductivity (44.6 W m−1 K−1) among the other gallium‐based LM composites with 2D inorganic nanofillers and distinguished electrical conductivity (8.3 S µm−1) among gallium‐based LM composites at present. The enhanced thermal conductivity and wettability of gallium‐based composite lead to its beneficial usage as thermal interface materials with exquisite texture for LED chip heat dissipation. The electrochemical and magnetic experiments confirm that these LM‐based composites can also be controlled under external electrical or magnetic field, which potentially can help extend their application in external field‐driven systems. The findings of this work offer new insight in designing LM‐based composites with enhanced thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties for a wide range of applications, including thermal management systems, 3D printing, flexible conductors, soft robotic systems, and wearable energy technologies.
Air Quality Index Prediction Based on an Adaptive Dynamic Particle Swarm Optimized Bidirectional Gated Recurrent Neural Network–China Region
Authors: Li Ping , Wang Shengwei , Ji Hao , Zhan Yulin , Li Honghong
Published: October 2021

Accurate predictions of the air quality index (AQI) is critical for pollution control and air quality warning. However, this is challenging because of the nonlinearity of data and the uncertainty between data relationships. This paper proposes a combinatorial model based on an improved adaptive dynamic particle swarm optimization (ADPSO) algorithm to optimize a bidirectional gated recurrent unit (BiGRU) neural network to predict AQI time series and capture data dependence. The ADPSO method incorporates a dynamic spatial search strategy into the standard particle swarm optimization method, allowing the parameters to be dynamically adjusted to balance global and local search capabilities, thus improving the performance and effectiveness of this optimization process. Compared to the BiGRU model, the PSO‐BiGRU model, and the radial basis neural,the results of the improved algorithm reveal that the root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of the ADPSO‐BiGRU predicted air pollution index are smaller than the errors of the other three models. The accuracy of the ADPSO‐BiGRU prediction model is higher than that of the other models, and it aids in the development of effective regional air quality management policies to reduce the negative impacts of pollution.
THOC2 and THOC5 Regulate Stemness and Radioresistance in Triple‐Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Bai Xupeng , Ni Jie , Beretov Julia , Wang Shanping , Dong Xingli , Graham Peter , Li Yong
Published: October 2021

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive subtype of breast cancer. Radioresistance and stemness are substantial obstacles to TNBC treatment. The THO complex (THOC) is a subunit of the TRanscription–EXport complex that functions in the coupling of transcription to nascent RNA splicing, elongation, and export. However, its role in regulating TNBC therapeutic resistance is not reported yet. In this study, the authors demonstrate that cancer stem cells are enriched in radioresistant TNBC cells and describe the role of the THOC in regulating TNBC radioresistance and stemness. The authors find that THOC2 and THOC5 are upregulated in radioresistant TNBC cells and associated with a poor prognosis in TNBC patients. Further investigation reveals that THOC2 promotes the stem‐like properties and radioresistance of TNBC cells in a THOC5‐dependent manner by facilitating the release of sex‐determining region Y (SRY)‐box transcription factor 2 (SOX2) and homeobox transcription factor (NANOG) transcripts from the nucleus. Silencing THOC2 or THOC5 expression decreases the protein expression of SOX2 and NANOG, depletes the stem‐like properties, and causes radiosensitization in these TNBC cells. Moreover, THOC2 or THOC5 depletion blocks the xenograft tumorigenesis and growth of radioresistant TNBC in vivo. These findings uncover the novel correlations of THOC with TNBC stemness and therapeutic resistance, proposing alternative therapeutic strategies against relapsed TNBC.
Engineering Catalytic CoSe–ZnSe Heterojunctions Anchored on Graphene Aerogels for Bidirectional Sulfur Conversion Reactions
Authors: Ye Zhengqing , Jiang Ying , Yang Tianyu , Li Li , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: October 2021

Sluggish sulfur reduction and lithium sulfide (Li2S) oxidation prevent the widespread use of lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries, which are attractive alternatives to Li−ion batteries. The authors propose that a transition metal selenide heterojunction (CoSe–ZnSe) catalytically accelerates bidirectional sulfur conversion reactions. A combination of synchrotron X‐ray absorption spectroscopy and density functional theory calculations show that a highly active heterointerface with charge redistribution and structure distortion effectively immobilizes sulfur species, facilitates Li ion diffusion, and decreases the sulfur reduction and Li2S oxidation energy barriers. The CoSe–ZnSe catalytic cathode exhibits high areal capacities, good rate capability, and superior cycling stability with capacity fading rate of 0.027% per cycle over 1700 cycles. Furthermore, CoSe–ZnSe heterojunctions anchored on graphene aerogels (CoSe–ZnSe@G) enhance ionic transport and catalytic activity under high sulfur loading and lean electrolyte conditions. A high areal capacity of 8.0 mAh cm−2 is achieved at an electrolyte/sulfur ratio of 3 µL mg−1. This study demonstrates the importance of bidirectional catalytic heterojunctions and structure engineering in boosting Li–S battery performances.
Controlled Synthesis of Ultrathin PtSe2 Nanosheets with Thickness‐Tunable Electrical and Magnetoelectrical Properties
Authors: Ma Huifang , Qian Qi , Qin Biao , Wan Zhong , Wu Ruixia , Zhao Bei , Zhang Hongmei , Zhang Zucheng , Li Jia , Zhang Zhengwei , Li Bo , Wang Lin , Duan Xidong
Published: October 2021

Thickness‐dependent chemical and physical properties have gained tremendous interest since the emergence of two‐dimensional (2D) materials. Despite attractive prospects, the thickness‐controlled synthesis of ultrathin nanosheets remains an outstanding challenge. Here, a chemical vapor deposition (CVD) route is reported to controllably synthesize high‐quality PtSe2 nanosheets with tunable thickness and explore their thickness‐dependent electronic and magnetotransport properties. Raman spectroscopic studies demonstrate all Eg, A1g, A2u, and Eu modes are red shift in thicker nanosheets. Electrical measurements demonstrate the 1.7 nm thick nanosheet is a semiconductor with room temperature field‐effect mobility of 66 cm2 V−1 s−1 and on/off ratio of 106. The 2.3–3.8 nm thick nanosheets show slightly gated modulation with high field‐effect mobility up to 324 cm2 V−1 s−1 at room‐temperature. When the thickness is over 3.8 nm, the nanosheets show metallic behavior with conductivity and breakdown current density up to 6.8 × 105 S m–1 and 6.9 × 107 A cm−2, respectively. Interestingly, magnetoresistance (MR) studies reveal magnetic orders exist in this intrinsically non‐magnetic material system, as manifested by the thickness‐dependent Kondo effect, where both metal to insulator transition and negative MR appear upon cooling. Together, these studies suggest that PtSe2 is an intriguing system for both developing novel functional electronics and conducting fundamental 2D magnetism study.
Viable Mixing Protocol Based on Formulated Equations for Achieving Desired Molecular Weight and Maximal Charge Separation of Photovoltaic Polymer
Authors: Lee Byongkyu , Kim Seoyoung , Nho Hak‐Won , Oh Jiyeon , Park Geunhyung , Jeong Mingyu , Cho Yongjoon , Lee Sang Myeon , Kwon Oh‐Hoon , Yang Changduk
Published: October 2021

A major difficulty in the polymer solar cell (PSC) community is discovering a methodology capable of accessing polymeric photovoltaic materials with controllable/predictable molecular weights. Effective mathematical equations that enable the reproduction of polymer batches with precisely controlled molecular weight, by mixing as‐synthesized polymer batches with the ones that have different molecular weights, are formulated in this study. The properties of both the as‐synthesized and mixed‐different‐molecular weight PM6 polymer series are systematically investigated to determine the effect of molecular weight on the performance of related PSCs. The power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) improve monotonically with an increase in weight average molecular weight (Mw) up to 120 kDa, but a further increase in Mw results in a sharp decline in PCE. This trend in PCEs is correlated with the charge‐separation efficacy as a function of the balance between the counteracting domain size and packing in the blends. Further, decreasing the polydispersity index in the optimal‐molecular weight PM6 sample produces a small but noticeable positive effect on device performance, yielding the best PCE of 16.5%. This viable mixing approach is useful in producing desirable molecular weight polymers, facilitating the development of high‐quality, high‐reproducibility photovoltaic polymers.
Iron deficiency and fatigue among adolescents with bleeding disorders
Authors: Zia Ayesha , Stanek Joseph , Christian‐Rancy Myra , Savelli Stephanie , O'Brien Sarah H.
Published: October 2021

Iron deficiency anemia is associated with heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) and, by extension, a bleeding disorder (BD). It is unknown if iron deficiency without anemia is associated with a BD in adolescents. Moreover, the threshold of ferritin associated with fatigue in adolescents with HMB is unclear. In this multicenter study, we enrolled adolescents with HMB without BD. Participants underwent BD and anemia work‐up in Young Women's Hematology Clinics and completed the Peds QL™ fatigue scale. BDs were defined as von Willebrand Disease, platelet function defect, clotting factor deficiencies, and hypermobility syndrome. Two hundred and fifty consecutive adolescents were enrolled, of whom 196 met eligibility criteria. Overall, 43% (95% confidence interval: 36%–50%) were diagnosed with BD. A total of 61% (n = 119) had serum ferritin levels < 15 ng/mL, 23.5% (n = 46) had iron deficiency only, and 37% (n = 73) had iron deficiency anemia. Low ferritin or ferritin dichotomized as < 15 or ≥ 15 ng/mL was not associated with BD on univariable analysis (p = .24) or when accounting for age, race, ethnicity, body mass index, and hemoglobin (p = .35). A total of 85% had total fatigue score below the population mean of 80.5, and 52% (n = 102) were > 2 SD (or < 54) below the mean, the cut‐off associated with severe fatigue. A ferritin threshold of < 6 ng/mL had a specificity of 79.8% but a sensitivity of 36% for severe fatigue. In conclusion, iron deficiency without anemia is not a predictor of BD in adolescents with HMB in a specialty setting. Severe fatigue, especially sleep fatigue, is prevalent in adolescents with BD. Ferritin of < 6 ng/mL has ~80% specificity for severe fatigue in adolescents with HMB.
Expanding the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of CHD2‐related disease: From early neurodevelopmental disorders to adult‐onset epilepsy
Authors: De Maria Beatrice , Balestrini Simona , Mei Davide , Melani Federico , Pellacani Simona , Pisano Tiziana , Rosati Anna , Scaturro Giusi M. , Giordano Lucio , Cantalupo Gaetano , Fontana Elena , Zammarchi Cristina , Said Edith , Leuzzi Vincenzo , Mastrangelo Mario , Galosi Serena , Parrini Elena , Guerrini Renzo
Published: October 2021

CHD2 encodes the chromodomain helicase DNA‐binding protein 2, an ATP‐dependent enzyme that acts as a chromatin remodeler. CHD2 pathogenic variants have been associated with various early onset phenotypes including developmental and epileptic encephalopathy, self‐limiting or pharmacoresponsive epilepsies and neurodevelopmental disorders without epilepsy. We reviewed 84 previously reported patients carrying 76 different CHD2 pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants and describe 18 unreported patients carrying 12 novel pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants, two recurrent likely pathogenic variants (in two patients each), three previously reported pathogenic variants, one gross deletion. We also describe a novel phenotype of adult‐onset pharmacoresistant epilepsy, associated with a novel CHD2 missense likely pathogenic variant, located in an interdomain region. A combined review of previously published and our own observations indicates that although most patients (72.5%) carry truncating CHD2 pathogenic variants, CHD2‐related phenotypes encompass a wide spectrum of conditions with developmental delay/intellectual disability (ID), including prominent language impairment, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and autistic spectrum disorder. Epilepsy is present in 92% of patients with a median age at seizure onset of 2 years and 6 months. Generalized epilepsy types are prevalent and account for 75.5% of all epilepsies, with photosensitivity being a common feature and adult‐onset nonsyndromic epilepsy a rare presentation. No clear genotype–phenotype correlation has emerged.
Genetically Determined Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol and Risk of Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Acosta Julián N. , Both Cameron P. , Szejko Natalia , Leasure Audrey C. , Abdelhakim Safa , Torres‐Lopez Victor M. , Brown Stacy C. , Matouk Charles C. , Gunel Murat , Sheth Kevin N. , Falcone Guido J.
Published: October 2021

We evaluated whether genetically elevated low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels are associated with lower risk of intracranial aneurysms and subarachnoid hemorrhage (IA/SAH). We conducted a 2‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study. Our primary analysis used the inverse‐variance weighted method. In secondary analyses, we implemented the MR‐PRESSO method, restricted our analysis to LDL‐C–specific instruments, and performed multivariate MR. A 1‐mmol/l increase in genetically instrumented LDL‐C levels was associated with a 17% lower risk of IA/SAH (odds ratio = 0.83, 95% confidence interval = 0.73–0.94, p = 0.004). Results remained consistent in secondary and multivariate analyses (all p < 0.05). Our results provide evidence for an inverse causal relationship between LDL‐C levels and risk of IA/SAH. ANN NEUROL 2022;91:145–149
Strategies to Introduce Topographical and Structural Cues in 3D‐Printed Scaffolds and Implications in Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Iturriaga Leire , Van Gordon Kyle D. , Larrañaga-Jaurrieta Garazi , Camarero‐Espinosa Sandra
Published: October 2021

Regeneration of tissues represents a current challenge and a need to treat damage and diseased organs, and is becoming determinant to alleviate the burden of healthcare systems with the increasing age of the population. Although many strategies are being developed and some scaffolds are already reaching the market, issues of formation of well‐structured and functional tissues are still prevalent. Additive manufacturing and particularly 3D printing have emerged as ideal technologies to fabricate patient‐specific scaffolds and allow for the easy modification of multiple structural parameters. Yet, these are generally composed of smooth fibers that are not able to drive, by themselves, the formation of well‐structured tissues. The use of physical cues to modulate cellular processes such as migration, proliferation, differentiation, and matrix synthesis has been proven effective in 2D. Thus, the extrapolation of these physical cues to 3D‐printed scaffolds appears as a tempting approach to promote the formation of functional tissues and thus, many strategies are being developed to this end. Herein, an overview of developed techniques to introduce topography and porosity to 3D‐printed scaffolds and their effect on the cell response and tissue formation is provided.
Crossed Regio‐ and Enantioselective Iron‐Catalyzed [4+2]‐Cycloadditions of Unactivated Dienes
Authors: Braconi Elena , Cramer Nicolai
Published: October 2021

The cyclohexene motif is ubiquitous in nature and specialty chemicals. A straightforward selective access to chiral cyclohexenes from unactivated dienes and dienophiles is not feasible by classical Diels–Alder reaction and constitutes an unsolved synthetic challenge. We report a mild and enantioselective iron‐catalyzed cross‐[4+2]‐cycloaddition of unactivated dienes providing access to chiral 1,3‐substituted vinyl‐cyclohexenes. The development of bis‐dihydroisoquinoline ligands was vital to obtain iron complexes that display high reactivities and excellent chemo‐, regio‐ and enantioselectivities towards the targeted cyclohexenes. A range of diene substrates is well accommodated including feedstocks like butadiene, isoprene and myrcene. The structures of different iron complexes are mapped by X‐ray crystallographic analysis and linked to their performance.
Highly Processable Covalent Organic Framework Gel Electrolyte Enabled by Side‐Chain Engineering for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Ziya , Zhang Kun , Huang Guoji , Xu Bingqing , Hong You‐lee , Wu Xiaowei , Nishiyama Yusuke , Horike Satoshi , Zhang Gen , Kitagawa Susumu
Published: October 2021

Although covalent organic frameworks (COFs) with a graphene‐like structure present unique chemical and physical properties, they are essentially insoluble and infusible crystalline powders with poor processability, hindering their further practical applications. How to improve the processability of COF materials is a major challenge in this field. In this contribution, we proposed a general side‐chain engineering strategy to construct a gel‐state COF with high processability. This method takes advantages of large and soft branched alkyl side chains as internal plasticizers to achieve the gelation of the COF. We systematically studied the influence of the length of the side chain on the COF gel formation. Benefitting from their machinability and flexibility, this novel COF gel can be easily processed into gel‐type electrolytes with specific shape and thickness, which were further applied to assemble lithium‐ion batteries that exhibited high cycling stability.
Synthesis, characterization, antimicrobial, and docking study of novel 1‐(furanyl)‐3‐(pyrrolyl)propenone‐based ligand and its chelates of 3d‐transition metal ions
Authors: Zayed Ehab M. , Zayed Mohamed A. , Radwan Mohamed A. A. , Alminderej Fahad M.
Published: October 2021

The novel ligand (L) 1‐(furanyl)‐3‐(pyrrolyl)propenone had been synthesized, and its novel chelates of some 3d series of transition metal ions had been prepared and characterized. The structural properties of the titled compounds were explored using elemental analyses, spectroscopic techniques (UV–visible, MS, and FT‐IR), molar conductivity, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the ligand and its metal chelates exist in stick crystallized structures and sizes of their molecules can exist in nanoform. Thermal analyses techniques (TG and DTA) measured the investigated chelates during their thermal degradation to elucidate their structures. It was proved that ligand (L) acts as bibasic bidentate ligand coordinating to metal cations via its two oxygen atoms of carbonyl and epoxy groups. The optimization of the structural formula for the examined ligand had been performed by using Gaussian 09 program. The energy gaps were calculated using the DFT/B3LYP method. The ligand and its chelates had been fixed to have consistent bond lengths and bond angles that proved via quantum chemical factors. The ligand (L) and its transition metal chelates had been tested for their antibacterial activities. In vitro biological properties for ligand (L) and its transition metal complexes were carried out against Gram‐positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and Gram‐negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) by agar diffusion technique. The results showed that title compounds are biologically active than the parent ligand in their sticks crystalline and possible nanostructures and consequently large surface interactions. Molecular docking showed favorable interaction between ligand and crystal structures of 3t88 E. coli, 3ty7 S. aureus, 5h67 B. subtilis, and 5i39 P. aeruginosa. This docking study proved that nanosize of ligand helps it to interact efficiently with proteins of bacteria.
Synthesis of tannic acid‐terephthalyl chloride modified rubber powder for the fabrication of tannic acid‐terephthalyl chloride‐rubber/styrene‐butadiene‐styrene modified asphalt
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Muhammad Yaseen , Mao Canyun , Xing Susu , Xiong Wei , Jiang Hao , Li Jing
Published: October 2021

Herein, tannic acid‐terephthalyl chloride (TA‐TPC) was prepared and was applied for the preparation of TA‐TPC‐Rubber to composite styrene butadiene styrene (SBS)‐modified asphalt (SBSMA). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy indicated that TA‐TPC successfully attached to the surface of rubber powder (RP), which improved the bonding between RP and SBSMA. Fluorescence microscopy analysis showed that TA‐TPC‐Rubber formed a complete crosslinking network structure in SBSMA, while thermogravimetry analysis proved the higher thermal stability of TA‐TPC‐Rubber/SBSMA. Dynamic shear rheometer and multi‐stress creep recovery tests confirmed that compared with SBSMA, the storage modulus (G') and loss modulus (G") of 12% TA‐TPC‐Rubber/SBSMA at 46°C were increased by 37.14% and 34.36%, respectively, the recovery rate was increased by 35.49% (0.1 kPa) and 31.91% (3.2 kPa) while the average creep compliance was decreased by 68.67% (0.1 kPa) and 59.87% (3.2 kPa). The phase segregation test proved that the compatibility between RP and SBSMA was improved by the modification of TA‐TPC, and the difference between the upper and lower softening points were reduced by 53.85%. The findings of this study can be of great significance for designing modified asphalt from cost‐effective raw materials through a convenient process for highways and construction applications.
Transparent and photochromic poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate–acrylamide)/WO3 hydrogel with antibacterial properties against bacterial keratitis in contact lens
Authors: Ejeromedoghene Onome , Hu Yi Ping , Oderinde Olayinka , Yao Fang , Akinremi Caroline , Akinyeye Richard , Adewuyi Sheriff , Fu Guodong
Published: October 2021

There have been numerous challenges in the incorporation of photochromic materials into hydrogel system due to the agglomeration of nanoparticles and non‐transparency of the hydrogel material. In this study, WO3 nanocomposites were prepared and incorporated into poly(hydroxyethyl acrylate) (pHEA) and polyacrylamide (pAAm) to fabricate poly(HEA‐AAm)/WO3 hydrogels with improved coloration efficiency and reversibility. The as‐prepared p(HEA‐AAm)/WO3 hydrogel displayed remarkable mechanical properties to sustain compressive and tensile stress up to 15.9 and 58.7 MPa with deformation ratios of 16.2 and 30.8, respectively. The hydrogels exhibited good transmittance (%T) and reflectance (%R) of ~47% and 64% at 829 and 408 nm respectively. The hydrogels also revealed visible spectroscopic absorbance at >781 nm after exposure to UV‐lamp and natural sunlight for 5 s and 0.5 h, giving rise to a blue coloration, however, the fading process of the hydrogels was achieved in 20 min and 2.0 h respectively in an open air. More so, the hydrogel solutions displayed a high antibacterial efficacy against bacteria pathogens associated with bacterial keratitis in contact lens care solutions. The observed excellent photochromic and antibacterial properties of the hydrogel show promising potentials for use in the construction of antibacterial contact lenses, optical and intelligent devices.
Choices on sampling, sequencing, and analyzing DNA influence the estimation of community composition of plant fungal symbionts
Authors: Cale Jonathan A. , Scott Natalie , Pec Gregory J. , Landhäusser Simon M. , Karst Justine
Published: October 2021

Plant root symbionts, namely mycorrhizal fungi, can be characterized using a variety of methods, but most of these rely on DNA. While Sanger sequencing still fulfills particular research objectives, next‐generation sequencing currently dominates the field, thus understanding how the two methods differ is important for identifying both opportunities and limitations to characterizing fungal communities. In addition to testing sequencing methods, we also examined how roots and soils may yield different fungal communities and how disturbance may affect those differences. We sequenced DNA from ectomycorrhizal fungi colonizing roots of Pinus banksiana and found that operational taxonomic unit richness was higher, and compositional variance lower, for Illumina MiSeq–sequenced communities compared to Sanger‐sequenced communities. We also found that fungal communities associated with roots were distinct in composition compared to those associated with soils and, moreover, that soil‐associated fungi were more clustered in composition than those of roots. Finally, we found community dissimilarity between roots and soils was insensitive to disturbance; however, rarefying read counts had a sizeable influence on trends in fungal richness. Although interest in mycorrhizal communities is typically focused on the abiotic and biotic filters sorting fungal species, our study shows that the choice of methods to sample, sequence, and analyze DNA can also influence the estimation of community composition.
Tooth replacement and attachment morphology in the Pacific Leaping Blenny, Alticus arnoldorum (Blenniiformes: Blenniidae: Salariini) with a discussion on tooth function
Authors: Williams Keiffer L. , Evans Kory M. , Simons Andrew M.
Published: October 2021

Modes of teleost tooth replacement and attachment have historically been described using discrete classification systems that categorize major patterns across taxa. While useful, these discrete classification schemes understate teleost tooth diversity. The “unattached” dentition of salariin combtooth blennies (Blenniiformes: Blenniidae: Salariini) is frequently overlooked due to its perceived complexity, so we examined the Pacific Leaping Blenny, Alticus arnoldorum, to describe this complex morphology. Using a range of methods including histology, SEM, microCT scanning, and clearing and staining, we establish a descriptive model of tooth replacement for A. arnoldorum. We then use our descriptive model of tooth replacement to propose a hypothesis of tooth function in salariin blennies. Our results show that A. arnoldorum exhibits grouped, extraosseous replacement of feeding teeth upon a discontinuous, permanent dental lamina. We also find that tooth replacement occurs within lip tissue that is laterally displaced from the distal margins of the jaw bones, a process previously undocumented in teleost fish. Feeding teeth attach to the dentigerous bone via a primary attachment mode consisting of a continuous collagen band at the posterior base of the teeth, and a secondary attachment mode consisting of epithelial cells. Alticus arnoldorum presents novel modes of tooth replacement and attachment that challenge historical classification modes of teleost dentition. Our descriptive tooth replacement model also provides a reliable framework to propose hypotheses of tooth function that can be applied in future comparative studies on salariin blennies and other long‐toothed teleosts to further elucidate the functional role of long‐toothed fishes in aquatic ecosystems.
Modified Xiaoqinglong decoction alleviates lipopolysaccharide‐induced acute lung injury in mice by regulating arachidonic acid metabolism and exerting anti‐apoptotic and anti‐inflammatory effects
Authors: Ruan Yongdui , Fan Yaohua , Xie Yanfeng , Ma Chunling , Mo Bingquan , Lai Yanni , Li Geng , Liu Xiaohong , Kuang Weihong
Published: October 2021

Effective therapeutics are not available for acute lung injury (ALI) and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Modified Xiaoqinglong decoction (M‐XQL) is reported to effectively treat pneumonia, but the underlying mechanisms are unclear. In this study, the therapeutic effect and mechanism of M‐XQL were examined using a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced ALI mouse model. The effects of M‐XQL on lung injury, inflammatory responses, and cell apoptosis were analyzed. Additionally, high‐throughput sequencing was performed to evaluate the therapeutic mechanism of M‐XQL. Pretreatment with M‐XQL significantly and dose‐dependently mitigated the pathological changes and upregulation of pulmonary, nitric oxide content and cell apoptosis and serum tumor necrosis factor‐alpha contents in the LPS‐induced ALI mouse model. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the expression of several arachidonic acid metabolism‐associated genes in the LPS + high‐dose M‐XQL group differed from that in the LPS group. In particular, theCbr2,Cyp4f18, andCyp2e1levels were upregulated, whereas theAlox12,Ptges, andPtges2levels were downregulated in the LPS + high‐dose M‐XQL group. These results suggest that M‐XQL exerts therapeutic effects in ALI mice by regulating arachidonic acid metabolism and exerting anti‐apoptotic and anti‐inflammatory effects. Thus, M‐XQL is a potential agent for the clinical treatment of ALI.
Integrating electrical resistivity tomography and ground‐penetrating radar methods to map archaeological walls near northern Ishtar gate, ancient Babylon city, Iraq
Authors: AL‐Hameedawi Mohammed M. , Thabit Jassim M. , AL‐Menshed Firas H. , Conyers Lawrence
Published: October 2021

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and ground‐penetrating radar (GPR) were collected on the eastern side of the northern Ishtar gate in ancient Babylon, Iraq, to locate the palace wall and other surrounding walls. Due to the presence of a low resistivity (highly conductive) top layer associated with brick rubble and other debris, the GPR reflection profiles show a high‐energy attenuation, but a series of processing and filtering steps produced coherent reflections of about 2 m depth. Profile analysis shows the geometry and layering of the walls and the surrounding matrix. With the ERT, the surface conductive zone produces various distortions in ERT inverse models, making identifying the features' lower boundaries difficult. Here, we suggest that instead of analysing these two data sets independently, the integration of both reveals not just the walls but their composition and defines material in the surrounding units. This integration shows how the interpretation of the shallow features on the 3D ERT maps is improved by comparison and interpretation in conjunction with the reflections visible on both reflection profiles and the 3D GPR amplitude slices. The orientation of these features and reflections emphasizes the existence of one series of buried walls at a depth of 90–150 cm. The thickness of these walls varies between 0.25 and 1 m. Another wall‐like feature is visible only on 3D ERT maps and not with the 3D GPR slices at 2 m depth, which indicates a thickness of 11 m. It is interpreted as the palace wall, which is consistent with earlier archaeological excavations. An analysis of the geometry and composition of both wall components, perhaps of different ages, and constructed for different reasons, indicates that some shallower walls may be the remains of rooms built as residences for soldiers, or they may belong to the other ruins of northern Ishtar gate.
Identifying N7‐methylguanosine sites by integrating multiple features
Authors: Zou Hongliang , Yang Fan , Yin Zhijian
Published: October 2021

Recent studies reported that N7‐methylguanosine (m7G) plays a vital role in gene expression regulation. As a consequence, determining the distribution of m7G is a crucial step towards further understanding its biological functions. Although biological experimental approaches are capable of accurately locating m7G sites, they are labor‐intensive, costly, and time‐consuming. Therefore, it is necessary to develop more effective and robust computational methods to replace, or at least complement current experimental methods. In this study, we developed a novel sequence‐based computational tool to identify RNA m7G sites. In this model, 22 kinds of dinucleotide physicochemical (PC) properties were employed to encode the RNA sequence. Three types of descriptors, including auto‐covariance, cross‐covariance, and discrete wavelet transform were adopted to extract effective features from the PC matrix. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) algorithm was utilized to reduce the influence of irrelevant or redundant features. Finally, these selected features were fed into a support vector machine (SVM) for distinguishing m7G from non‐m7G sites. The proposed method significantly outperforms existing predictors across all evaluation metrics. It indicates that the approach is effective in identifying RNA m7G sites.
Longitudinal changes in brain parenchyma due to mild traumatic brain injury during the first year after injury
Authors: Muller Angela M. , Panenka William J. , Lange Rael T. , Iverson Grant L. , Brubacher Jeffrey R. , Virji‐Babul Naznin
Published: October 2021

Chronic gray matter (GM) atrophy is a known consequence of moderate and severe traumatic brain injuries but has not been consistently shown in mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The aim of this study was to investigate the longitudinal effect of uncomplicated mTBI on the brain's GM and white matter (WM) from 6 weeks to 12 months after injury. Voxel‐based‐morphometry (VBM) was computed with the T1‐weighted images of 48 uncomplicated mTBI patients and 37 orthopedic controls. Over the period from 6 weeks to 12 months, only patients who experienced uncomplicated mTBI, but not control participants, showed significant GM decrease predominantly in the right hemisphere along the GM‐CSF border in lateral and medial portions of the sensorimotor cortex extending into the rolandic operculum, middle frontal gyrus, insula, and temporal pole. Additionally, only mTBI patients, but not controls, experienced significant WM decrease predominantly in the right hemisphere in the superior fasciculus longitudinalis, arcuate fasciculus, and cortical‐pontine tracts as well as a significant WM increase in left arcuate fasciculus and left capsula extrema. We did not observe any significant change in the controls for the same time interval or any significant group differences in GM and WM probability at each of the two timepoints. This suggests that the changes along the brain tissue borders observed in the mTBI group represent a reorganization associated with subtle microscopical changes in intracortical myelin and not a direct degenerative process as a result of mTBI.
Breast cancer risk stratification for mammographic screening: A nation‐wide screening cohort of 24,431 women in Singapore
Authors: Ho Peh Joo , Wong Fuh Yong , Chay Wen Yee , Lim Elaine Hsuen , Lim Zi Lin , Chia Kee Seng , Hartman Mikael , Li Jingmei
Published: October 2021

Background

Breast cancer incidence is increasing in Asia. However, few women in Singapore attend routine mammography screening. We aim to identify women at high risk of breast cancer who will benefit most from regular screening using the Gail model and information from their first screen (recall status and mammographic density).

Methods

In 24,431 Asian women (50–69 years) who attended screening between 1994 and 1997, 117 developed breast cancer within 5 years of screening. Cox proportional hazard models were used to study the associations between risk classifiers (Gail model 5‐year absolute risk, recall status, mammographic density), and breast cancer occurrence. The efficacy of risk stratification was evaluated by considering sensitivity, specificity, and the proportion of cancers identified.

Results

Adjusting for information from first screen attenuated the hazard ratios (HR) associated with 5‐year absolute risk (continuous, unadjusted HR [95% confidence interval]: 2.3 [1.8–3.1], adjusted HR: 1.9 [1.4–2.6]), but improved the discriminatory ability of the model (unadjusted AUC: 0.615 [0.559–0.670], adjusted AUC: 0.703 [0.653–0.753]). The sensitivity and specificity of the adjusted model were 0.709 and 0.622, respectively. Thirty‐eight percent of all breast cancers were detected in 12% of the study population considered high risk (top five percentile of the Gail model 5‐year absolute risk [absolute risk ≥1.43%], were recalled, and/or mammographic density ≥50%).

Conclusion

The Gail model is able to stratify women based on their individual breast cancer risk in this population. Including information from the first screen can improve prediction in the 5 years after screening. Risk stratification has the potential to pick up more cancers.
microRNAs in female infertility: An overview
Authors: Bahmyari Sedigheh , Jamali Zeinab , Khatami Seyyed Hossein , Vakili Omid , Roozitalab Mahin , Savardashtaki Amir , Solati Arezoo , Mousavi Pegah , Shabaninejad Zahra , Vakili Sina , Behrouj Hamid , Ghasemi Hassan , Movahedpour Ahmad
Published: October 2021

Infertility impacts a considerable number of women worldwide, and it affects different aspects of family life and society. Although female infertility is known as a multifactorial disorder, there are strong genetic and epigenetic bases. Studies revealed that miRNAs play critical roles in initiation and development of female infertility related disorders. Early diagnosis and control of these diseases is an essential key for improving disease prognosis and reducing the possibility of infertility and other side effects. Investigating the possible use of miRNAs as biomarkers and therapeutic options is valuable, and it merits attention. Thus, in this article, we reviewed research associated with female diseases and highlighted microRNAs that are related to the polycystic ovary syndrome (up to 30 miRNAs), premature ovarian failure (10 miRNAs), endometriosis (up to 15 miRNAs), uterine fibroids (up to 15 miRNAs), endometrial polyp (3 miRNAs), and pelvic inflammatory (6 miRNAs), which are involved in one or more ovarian or uterine disease‐causing processes.
Interfacial Interactions within Amyloid Protein Corona Based on 2D MoS2 Nanosheets
Authors: Wu Rongrong , Ou Xinwen , Zhang Liwei , Wang Fenghua , Liu Lei
Published: October 2021

The interfacial interaction within the amyloid protein corona based on MoS2 nanomaterial is crucial, both for understanding the biological effects of MoS2 nanomaterial and the evolution of amyloid diseases. The specific nano‐bio interface phenomenon of human islet amyloid peptide (hIAPP) and MoS2 nanosheet was investigated by using theoretical and experimental methods. The MoS2 nanosheet enables the attraction of hIAPP monomer, dimer, and oligomer on its surface through van der Waals forces. Especially, the means of interaction between two hIAPP peptides might be changed by MoS2 nanosheet. In addition, it is interesting to find that the hIAPP oligomer can stably interact with the MoS2 nanosheet in one unique “standing” binding mode with an entire exposed β‐sheet surface. All the interaction modes on the surface of MoS2 nanosheet can be the essence of amyloid protein corona that may provide the venue to facilitate the fibrillation of hIAPP proteins. Further, it was verified experimentally that MoS2 nanosheets could accelerate the fibrillation of hIAPP at a certain concentration mainly based on the newly formed nano‐bio interface. In general, our results provide insight into the molecular interaction mechanism of the nano‐bio interface within the amyloid protein corona, and shed light on the pathway of amyloid protein aggregation that is related to the evolution of amyloid diseases.
Mucormycosis infection in severe COVID‐19 patient with multiple underlying health conditions
Authors: Heydarifard Zahra , Safaei Moslem , Zadheidar Sevrin , Ehsan Soroush , Shafiei‐Jandaghi Nazanin Zahra
Published: October 2021

Patients with underlying health conditions are vulnerable to invasive fungal infection following COVID‐19. It seems that uncontrolled diabetes mellitus makes patients susceptible to both severe COVID‐19 and mucormycosis.
Eruptive acral lentiginosis following chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia: A case series
Authors: O’Connor Cathal , Ryan Clodagh , Murphy Lesley‐Ann
Published: October 2021

Lentigines are brown macules which develop due to increased proliferation of melanocytes at the dermo‐epidermal junction. We report three cases of acral lentiginosis in children following chemotherapy for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) which have persisted following cessation of chemotherapy, despite avid photoprotection. Generalised eruptive naevi with subsequent development of dysplastic naevi and melanoma in situ have been reported following chemotherapy, highlighting the importance of continued clinical observation.
The Modified Liquid‐Liquid Interface: The Effect of an Interfacial Layer of MoS2 on Ion Transfer
Authors: Al Nasser Hussain A. , Bissett Mark A. , Dryfe Robert A. W.
Published: October 2021

MoS2 nanosheets have been assembled at the water|1,2‐dichlorobenzene (DCB) interface into uniform films, and the ion‐transfer properties investigated by voltammetry at the interface between immiscible electrolyte solutions. Remarkably, interfacial MoS2 films were found to enhance the simple and facilitated transfer of cationic species while restricting the transport of anionic species. The enhancement is attributed to a localised increase in the cationic concentration at the interface due to the adsorption onto the negatively charged surface of the exfoliated MoS2 nanosheets. Size‐selectivity for the cationic species was also recognized as a feature of such films. Characterisation of the interfacial film's structure revealed the inclusion of multiple emulsified droplets stabilised by MoS2, where the droplet number and size depend on the concentration of the MoS2 dispersion. Besides increasing the interfacial corrugation and area, the emulsified droplets are believed to influence the mass transport mechanism across the interface. Cyclic voltammetric measurements of saturated films suggested a capillary‐like structure of these films. While the capillaries/nanochannels allow them to have a degree of size‐selectivity that depends on the thickness/density of the film, they also affect the diffusion zones towards and away from the interface. Consequently, steady‐state conditions of mass transport similar to those found in solid‐state supported micro‐ITIES are observed in these nanofilms.
Synthesis of Benzoisoselenazolones via Rh(III)‐Catalyzed Direct Annulative Selenation by Using Elemental Selenium
Authors: Xu‐Xu Qing‐Feng , Nishii Yuji , Uetake Yuta , Sakurai Hidehiro , Miura Masahiro
Published: October 2021

Isoselenazolone derivatives have attracted significant research interest because of their potent therapeutic activities and indispensable applications in organic synthesis. Efficient construction of functionalized isoselenazolone scaffolds is still challenging, and thus new synthetic approaches with improved operational simplicity have been of particular interest. In this manuscript, we introduce a rhodium‐catalyzed direct selenium annulation by using stable and tractable elemental selenium. A series of benzamides as well as acrylamides were successfully coupled with selenium under mild reaction conditions, and the obtained isoselenazolones could be pivotal synthetic precursors for several organoselenium compounds. Based on the designed control experiments and X‐ray absorption spectroscopy measurements, we propose an unprecedented selenation mechanism involving a highly electrophilic Se(IV) species as the reactive selenium donor. The reaction mechanism was further verified by a computational study.