bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Brazil-Germany Energy Partnership: From Nuclear To Green Hydrogen - A Perspective On Mutual Benefits In The Energy Transition Of The 21st Century
Authors: Barbosa Márcio Carneiro , Gomes Rickardo Léo Ramos
Published: January 2025

Background: This study explores the energy relations between Germany and Brazil within the context of the
ongoing energy transition. It underscores the importance of international cooperation during this period of rapid
climate change and discusses the mutual benefits for both countries resulting from the commercialization of green
hydrogen.
Materials and Methods: The research adopted a qualitative approach, essential for an in-depth exploration of
the strategic relations between Germany and Brazil. The methodology consisted of a literature review, which
involved consulting sources categorized into three main groups: (1) global warming and energy transition, (2)
the green hydrogen context, and (3) energy relations between Germany and Brazil.
Results: The findings highlight the strategic efforts of both countries to strengthen energy relations in the field of
green hydrogen. This cooperation reflects a win-win dynamic, with significant mutual benefits in advancing the
energy transition and fostering sustainable development.
Conclusion: The study concludes that the strategic energy partnership between Germany and Brazil has evolved
significantly, from nuclear cooperation in the 20th century to a current focus on green hydrogen production. This partnership represents a key example of international collaboration addressing global energy challenges.
Incorporation of Shared Decision-Making in International Cardiovascular Guidelines, 2012-2022
Authors: MacDonald Blair J. , Turgeon Ricky D.
Published: September 2023

Importance

Shared decision-making (SDM) is a key component of the provision of ethical care, but prior reviews have indicated that clinical practice guidelines seldom promote or facilitate SDM. It is currently unknown whether these findings extend to contemporary cardiovascular guidelines.

Objective

To identify and characterize integration of SDM in contemporary cardiovascular guideline recommendations using a systematic classification system.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study assessed the latest guidelines or subsequent updates that included pharmacotherapy recommendations and were published between January 2012 and December 2022 by the American College of Cardiology (ACC), Canadian Cardiovascular Society (CCS), and European Society of Cardiology (ESC). Data were analyzed from February 21 to July 21, 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

All pharmacotherapy recommendations were identified within each guideline. Recommendations that incorporated SDM were rated according to a systematic rating framework to evaluate the quality of SDM incorporation based on directness (range, 1-3; assessing whether SDM was incorporated directly and impartially into the recommendation’s text, with 1 indicating direct and impartial incorporation of SDM into the recommendation’s text) and facilitation (range, A-D; assessing whether decision aids or quantified benefits and harms were provided, with A indicating that a decision aid quantifying benefits and harms was provided). The proportion of recommendations incorporating SDM was also analyzed according to guideline society and category (eg, general cardiology, heart failure).

Results

Analyses included 65 guideline documents, and 33 documents (51%) incorporated SDM either in a general statement or within specific recommendations. Of 7499 recommendations, 2655 (35%) recommendations addressed pharmacotherapy, and of these, 170 (6%) incorporated SDM. By category, general cardiology guidelines contained the highest proportion of pharmacotherapy recommendations incorporating SDM (86 of 865 recommendations [10%]), whereas heart failure and myocardial disease contained the least (9 of 315 recommendations [3%]). The proportion of pharmacotherapy recommendations incorporating SDM was comparable across societies (ACC: 75 of 978 recommendations [8%]; CCS: 29 of 333 recommendations [9%]; ESC: 67 of 1344 recommendations [5%]), with no trend for change over time. Only 5 of 170 SDM recommendations (3%) were classified as grade 1A (impartial recommendations for SDM supported by a decision aid), whereas 114 of 170 recommendations (67%) were grade 3D (SDM mentioned only in supporting text and without any tools or information to facilitate SDM).

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cross-sectional study across guidelines published by 3 major cardiovascular societies over the last decade, 51% of guidelines mentioned the importance of SDM, yet only 6% of recommendations incorporated SDM in any form, and fewer adequately facilitated SDM.
Immunogenicity and Reactogenicity of Coadministration of COVID-19 and Influenza Vaccines
Authors: Gonen Tal , Barda Noam , Asraf Keren , Joseph Gili , Weiss-Ottolenghi Yael , Doolman Ram , Kreiss Yitshak , Lustig Yaniv , Regev-Yochay Gili
Published: September 2023

Importance

COVID-19 and seasonal influenza vaccines were previously given separately, although their coadministration is warranted for vaccination adherence. Limited data on their coadministration have been published.

Objective

To compare the reactogenicity and immunogenicity of COVID-19 and influenza vaccinations administered together with those of COVID-19 vaccination alone.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This prospective cohort study included health care workers at a large tertiary medical center in Israel who received the Influvac Tetra (Abbott) influenza vaccine (2022/2023), the Omicron BA.4/BA.5–adapted bivalent (Pfizer/BioNTech) vaccine, or both. Vaccination began in September 2022, and data were collected until January 2023. Vaccines were offered to all employees and were coadministered or given separately. Adverse reaction questionnaires were sent, and serologic samples were also collected.

Exposures

Receiving COVID-19 vaccine, influenza vaccine, or both.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcomes for the reactogenicity analysis were symptoms following vaccine receipt, assessed by a digital questionnaire: any local symptoms; fever; weakness or fatigue; any systemic symptoms; and their duration. The immunogenicity analysis’ outcome was postvaccination anti-spike IgG titer.

Results

This study included 2 cohorts for 2 separate analyses. The reactogenicity analysis included 588 participants (of 649 questionnaire responders): 85 in the COVID-19 vaccine–alone group (median [IQR] age, 71 [58-74] years; 56 [66%] female); 357 in the influenza vaccine–alone group (median [IQR] age, 55 [40-65] years; 282 [79%] female); and 146 in the coadministration group (median [IQR] age, 61 [50-71] years; 81 [55%] female). The immunogenicity analysis included 151 participants: 74 participants in the COVID-19 vaccine group (median [IQR] age, 67 [56-73] years; 45 [61%] female) and 77 participants in the coadministration group (median [IQR] age, 60 [49-73] years; 42 [55%] female). Compared with COVID-19 vaccination alone, the risk of systemic symptoms was similar in the coadministration group (odds ratio, 0.82; 95% CI, 0.43-1.56). Geometric mean titers in the coadministration group were estimated to be 0.84 (95% CI, 0.69-1.04) times lower than in the COVID-19 vaccine–alone group.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of health care workers who received a COVID-19 vaccine, an influenza vaccine, or both, coadministration was not associated with substantially inferior immune response or to more frequent adverse events compared with COVID-19 vaccine administration alone, supporting the coadministration of these vaccines.
Transcriptomic profiling of peripheral blood cells in HPV‐associated carcinoma patients receiving combined valproic acid and avelumab
Authors: Bozorgmehr Najmeh , Syed Hussain , Mashhouri Siavash , Walker John , Elahi Shokrollah
Published: September 2023

Human papillomavirus (HPV)‐associated cancer continues to evade the immune system by promoting a suppressive tumor microenvironment. Therefore, immunotherapy appears to be a promising approach for targeting HPV‐associated tumors. We hypothesized that valproic acid (VA) as an epigenetic agent combined with avelumab may enhance the antitumor immunity in HPV‐associated solid tumors. We performed bulk RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐Seq) on total peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of seven nonresponders (NRs) and four responders (Rs). A total of 39 samples (e.g., pretreatment, post‐VA, postavelumab, and endpoint) were analyzed. Also, we quantified plasma analytes and performed flow cytometry. We observed a differential pattern in immune response following treatment with VA and/or avelumab in NRs vs. Rs. A significant upregulation of transcripts associated with NETosis [the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs)] and neutrophil degranulation pathways was linked to the presence of a myeloid‐derived suppressor cell signature in NRs. We noted the elevation of IL‐8/IL‐18 cytokines and a distinct transcriptome signature at the baseline and endpoint in NRs. By using the receiver operator characteristics, we identified a cutoff value for the plasma IL‐8/IL‐18 to discriminate NRs from Rs. We found differential therapeutic effects for VA and avelumab in NRs vs. Rs. Thus, our results imply that measuring the plasma IL‐8/IL‐18 and bulk RNA‐Seq of PBMCs may serve as valuable biomarkers to predict immunotherapy outcomes.
Human IPSC‐Derived PreBötC‐Like Neurons and Development of an Opiate Overdose and Recovery Model
Authors: Guo Xiufang , Akanda Nesar , Fiorino Gabriella , Nimbalkar Siddharth , Long Christopher J. , Colón Alisha , Patel Aakash , Tighe Patrick J. , Hickman James J.
Published: September 2023

Opioid overdose is the leading cause of drug overdose lethality, posing an urgent need for investigation. The key brain region for inspiratory rhythm regulation and opioid‐induced respiratory depression (OIRD) is the preBötzinger Complex (preBötC) and current knowledge has mainly been obtained from animal systems. This study aims to establish a protocol to generate human preBötC neurons from induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs) and develop an opioid overdose and recovery model utilizing these iPSC‐preBötC neurons. A de novo protocol to differentiate preBötC‐like neurons from human iPSCs is established. These neurons express essential preBötC markers analyzed by immunocytochemistry and demonstrate expected electrophysiological responses to preBötC modulators analyzed by patch clamp electrophysiology. The correlation of the specific biomarkers and function analysis strongly suggests a preBötC‐like phenotype. Moreover, the dose‐dependent inhibition of these neurons’ activity is demonstrated for four different opioids with identified IC50's comparable to the literature. Inhibition is rescued by naloxone in a concentration‐dependent manner. This iPSC‐preBötC mimic is crucial for investigating OIRD and combating the overdose crisis and a first step for the integration of a functional overdose model into microphysiological systems.
Influence of α‐Precipitate Orientation and Distribution on the Deformation Behavior of the Additively Manufactured Metastable β‐Titanium Alloy Ti‐5553 Assessed by Cyclic Nanoindentation
Authors: Alves Alcântara Erika Gabriele , Fleck Claudia
Published: September 2023

The metastable β‐titanium alloy Ti–5Al–5V–5Mo–3Cr (Ti‐5553) has recently found growing interest as medical implant material due to its advantageous mechanical properties when compared to the up‐to‐date standard alloys. Besides biocompatibility, implant materials need to exhibit sufficient fatigue resistance. Herein, cyclic nanoindentation is applied up to a maximum cycle number of 105 to elucidate the influence of the local phase distribution on the cyclic deformation behavior of Ti‐5553, made by laser powder bed fusion of metals (LPBF‐M), in the (α + β)‐solution annealed state. By combining the localized cyclic mechanical loading and high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy, the influence of the presence and orientation of αp‐precipitates within the β‐grains on the cyclic deformation behavior and mechanisms is unraveled. αp‐phase orientation and distribution significantly contribute to the effectiveness of the precipitates as barriers to dislocation motion. A high density and trapping of dislocations are observed at α/β interfaces. The occurrence and size of the pile‐up surrounding the indents are correlated with the cyclic deformation behavior, and, thus, with the presence of αp‐precipitates. The gained improved knowledge of the phase‐dependent deformation behavior helps to better understand the fatigue performance of this alloy also on the macroscale.
Initiatorless Solar Photopolymerization of Versatile and Sustainable Eutectogels as Multi‐Response and Self‐Powered Sensors for Human–Computer Interface
Authors: Xue Kai , Shao Changyou , Yu Jie , Zhang Hongmei , Wang Bing , Ren Wenfeng , Cheng Yabin , Jin Zixian , Zhang Fei , Wang Zuankai , Sun Runcang
Published: September 2023

Eutectogels are emerging as an appealing soft conductor for self‐powered sensing and the next generation of flexible human–computer interactive devices owing to their inherent mechanical elasticity and high ionic conductivity. However, it still remains a challenge to simultaneously achieve multi‐functional and multi‐response integrations through a facile and sustainable approach. Herein, a self‐healing, environment tolerant, intrinsically conductive, and recyclable eutectogel with multiple responses is developed via one‐step solar‐initiated polymerization of deep eutectic solvents (DESs) and ionic liquids (ILs). Abundant hydrogen bonds and ion‐dipole interactions impart eutectogels with high mechanical strength (8.8 MPa), ultra‐stretchability (>1100%), strong self‐adhesion (≈12 MPa), recyclability, and autonomously self‐healing ability. Furthermore, the intrinsically conductive eutectogels with appealing versatile sensations on strain, temperature, and humidity can serve as wearable sensors for wireless motion recognition and human–computer interaction control. More importantly, the eutectogel‐assembled single‐electrode triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) exhibits extreme environment‐tolerant and fast self‐healable properties that contribute to maintaining excellent and stable electrical outputs in a wide work temperature range (approximately −40–60 °C), which appear to be promising in self‐powered flexible electronics with high environmental adaptability.
Polymer‐Confined Pyrolysis Promotes the Formation of Ultrafine Single‐Phase High‐Entropy Alloys: A Promising Electrocatalyst for Oxidation of Nitrogen
Authors: Guo Hele , Guo Zhongyuan , Chu Kaibin , Zong Wei , Zhu Han , Zhang Leiqian , Liu Chuangwei , Liu Tianxi , Hofkens Johan , Lai Feili
Published: September 2023

High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) made up of multiple metallic elements have gained attention for their excellent electrocatalytic performance. However, their application in the field of nitrogen (N2) oxidation reaction (NOR) remains underexplored. In this study, a “pomegranate‐like” carbon embedded with ultrafine AuPdPtRhIr HEA (HEA@C) is synthesized using a polymer‐confined pyrolysis strategy. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations show that small‐sized metal nanoparticles formed by the confinement of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) during the hydrothermal process can easily form a single‐phase HEA through a thermodynamically‐driven solid‐phase diffusion process during subsequent pyrolysis. Additionally, a porous carbon layer which in situ converted from the PVA shell can effectively inhibit the agglomeration of HEA nanoparticles and confine the surrounding N2. Experimentally, the HEA@C nanohybrid demonstrates a satisfactory NO3− yield rate of 23.8 µg h−1 mgcat.−1 and a high Faraday efficiency of 13.8% for the NOR process. By using operando Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, online differential electrochemical mass spectrometry (DEMS), and density functional theory calculations, potential efficient active sites (Rh–Ir–o) and pathways for the electrochemical conversion of inert N2 to NO3− are revealed. This research provides an effective strategy for producing highly dispersed ultrafine HEA nanoparticles, showing a wide range of applications in advanced electrocatalysis.
A Graphdiyne Nanoreactor for Conversion of NO3− to NH3 from Wastewater
Authors: Zhao Shuya , Chen Zhaoyang , Zheng Zhiqiang , Luan Xiaoyu , Gao Yaqi , Qi Lu , Xue Yurui , Li Yuliang
Published: September 2023

The lack of highly active and selective catalysts is a major obstacle to replace traditional Haber–Bosch process for electrocatalytic production of ammonia (NH3) at ambient conditions. A new hollow graphdiyne nanoreactor (GDYNR) is reported to overcome this issue effectively. The GDYNR is synthesized by in situ growth of GDY on the inner and outer surfaces of the cobalt hydroxide sphere to form a high‐performance interface structure. Experimental results demonstrate that the incomplete charge transfer between GDY and cobalt atoms at the interfaces promotes the formation of strong interfacial sp‐C─Co bonds and the transition of monovalent Co(II) to mixed Co(II)/Co(III) phases. These intrinsic characteristics give the GDYNR superior NH3 production performances with the highest NH3 yield rate (YNH3) of 479 830.67 µgNH3 mgcat−1 h−1, Faradaic efficiency (FE) of ≈100% at −0.4 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode, and excellent long‐term stability at room temperatures and ambient pressures, along with no side reactions. In light of characteristics of the unique confined hollow structures and the heterointerface with obvious incomplete charge transfer property, the generation of GDYNR system represents an advanced design concept and preparation technology for the development of catalytic systems with new structures.
High‐Strength Smart Microneedles with “Offensive and Defensive” Effects for Intervertebral Disc Repair
Authors: Meng Qingchen , Xie En , Sun Heng , Wang Huan , Li Jiaying , Liu Zhao , Li Kexin , Hu Jie , Chen Qianglong , Liu Chaoyong , Li Bin , Han Fengxuan
Published: September 2023

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is a global public health issue. The injury of annulus fibrosus (AF) caused by acupuncture or discectomy can trigger IVDD again. However, there is currently no suitable method for treating AF injury. In this study, the high‐strength smart microneedles (MNs) which can penetrate the AF tissue through a local and minimally invasive method, and achieve remote control of speeded‐up release of the drug and hyperthermia by the Near Infrared is developed. The PDA/GelMA composite MNs loaded with diclofenac sodium are designed to extracellularly “offend” the inflammatory microenvironment and mitigate damage to cells, and intracellularly increase the level of cytoprotective heat shock proteins to enhance the defense against the hostile microenvironment, achieving “offensive and defensive” effects. In vitro experiments demonstrate that the synergistic treatment of photothermal therapy and anti‐inflammation effectively reduces inflammation, inhibits cell apoptosis, and promotes the synthesis of the extracellular matrix (ECM). In vivo experiments show that the MNs mitigate the inflammatory response, promote ECM deposition, reduce the level of apoptosis, and restore the biomechanical properties of the intervertebral disc (IVD) in rats. Overall, this high‐strength smart MNs display promising “offensive and defensive” effects that can provide a new strategy for IVD repair.
Light‐Driven Thermo‐Optical Effects in Nanoresonator Arrays
Authors: Naef Alfredo , Mohammadi Ershad , Tsoulos Ted V. , Tagliabue Giulia
Published: September 2023

Thermonanophotonics, that is the study of photothermal effects in optical nanoantennas, has recently attracted growing interest. In particular, going beyond thermoplasmonic designs, thermo‐optical modulation of dielectric nanoantennas opens new opportunities for reconfigurable and non‐reciprocal metasurfaces. However, understanding light‐driven thermo‐optical effects in large arrays of nanoantennas remains challenging. In this work, for the first time the impact of thermo‐optical effects beyond the single nanoresonator is analyzed. By performing photo‐thermo‐optical computations of large nanoantenna arrays (more than 105 elements), the complex interplay of thermo‐optical effects with self‐ and collective‐heating in 1D, 2D, and 3D systems are explored. The results show that collective heating contributions strongly alter the local absorption cross‐section and, in return, also the self‐heating term. Therefore, both terms must be carefully accounted for in large arrays. Importantly, by controlling the nanoresonator size, array periodicity and illumination wavelength, thermo‐optical effects enable the realization of non‐trivial spatial temperature profiles. In particular, ways to counteract collective heating effects and obtain flat temperature profiles in 2D arrays of dissimilar silicon nanoresonators are demonstrated. Overall, this work paves the way to the design of light‐driven reconfigurable metasurfaces, supporting the development of advanced thermonanophotonic functionalities.
A Design Strategy for Multiple Resonance‐Induced Pure Violet Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Emitters with a Narrow Emission Band
Authors: Park Jinho , Kim Seung Chan , Jo Unhyeok , Lee Dong Ryun , Ahn Han Jin , Kim Jun Yun , Baek Ji‐Ho , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: September 2023

This study proposes a novel approach to develop highly efficient, narrow‐emitting violet materials based on boron and oxygen polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon multiple resonance structure. Herein, B‐2OCz is developed by fusing indole with a 5,9‐dioxa‐13bboranaphtho[3,2,1‐de]anthracene (DOBNA) core to enhance its thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) properties and molecular rigidity. On the other hand, the B‐2OCz‐Si is decorated with a bulky tetraphenylsilyl substituent. B‐2OCz‐Si exhibits exceptional features such as violet emission at 397 nm, a very small full width at half maximum of 16 nm, and 82% of photoluminescence quantum yield. The B‐2OCz‐Si devices achieve a high external quantum efficiency of over 15%, violet emission with a peak wavelength of 423 nm, and color coordinates of (0.156, 0.037). Furthermore, the B‐2OCz‐Si is used as an electron transport type host material for phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes (PhOLEDs), based on its high triplet energy and TADF properties. As compared to the conventional triazine based host materials, these newly developed DOBNA‐based materials display superior device lifetime performance. All these potential aspects corroborate that this new class of DOBNA‐based materials can work as a promising host material for PhOLEDs and violet‐emitting fluorescent devices.
Symmetry and Nonlinearity of Spin Wave Resonance Excited by Focused Surface Acoustic Waves
Authors: Shah Piyush J. , Bas Derek A. , Hamadeh Abbass , Wolf Michael , Franson Andrew , Newburger Michael , Pirro Philipp , Weiler Mathias , Page Michael R.
Published: September 2023

The use of a complex ferromagnetic system to manipulate GHz surface acoustic waves (SAWs) is a rich current topic under investigation, but the high‐power nonlinear regime is under‐explored. Focused SAWs are introduced, which provide a way to access this regime with modest equipment. The symmetry of the magneto‐acoustic interaction can be tuned by interdigitated transducer design which can introduce additional strain components. Here, the impact of focused acoustic waves versus standard unidirectional acoustic waves in significantly enhancing the magnon‐phonon coupling behavior is compared. Analytical simulation results based on the modified Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert theory show good agreement with experimental findings. Nonlinear input power dependence of the transmission through the device is also reported. This experimental observation is supported by the micromagnetic simulation using mumax3 to model the nonlinear dependence. These results pave the way for extending the understanding and design of acoustic wave devices for the exploration of acoustically driven spin wave resonance physics.
Mutational landscape and predictors of survival in head and neck mucosal melanoma
Authors: Lehrich Brandon M. , Abiri Arash , Nguyen Theodore V. , Bitner Benjamin F. , Tong Charles C. L. , Kuan Edward C.
Published: September 2023

Key Points

Head and neck mucosal melanomas have a diverse mutational landscape with low mutational burden.

A molecular subset (∼13%) has ROS1 mutations, which is an actionable driver mutation.

ROS1‐mutated patients have improved overall survival likely due to high mutational burden.
Achieving Molecular Recognition of Structural Analogues in Surface‐Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy: Inducing Charge and Geometry Complementarity to Mimic Molecular Docking
Authors: Leong Shi Xuan , Kao Ya‐Chuan , Han Xuemei , Poh Zhong Wei , Chen Jaslyn Ru Ting , Tan Emily Xi , Leong Yong Xiang , Lee Yih Hong , Teo Wei Xuan , Yip George W. , Lam Yulin , Ling Xing Yi
Published: September 2023

Molecular recognition of complex isomeric biomolecules remains challenging in surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy due to their small Raman cross‐sections and/or poor surface affinities. To date, the use of molecular probes has achieved excellent molecular sensitivities but still suffers from poor spectral specificity. Here, we induce “charge and geometry complementarity” between probe and analyte as a key strategy to achieve high spectral specificity for effective SERS molecular recognition of structural analogues. We employ 4‐mercaptopyridine (MPY) as the probe, and chondroitin sulfate (CS) disaccharides with isomeric sulfation patterns as our proof‐of‐concept study. Our experimental and in silico studies reveal that “charge and geometry complementarity” between MPY's binding pocket and the CS sulfation patterns drives the formation of site‐specific, multidentate interactions at the respective CS isomerism sites, which “locks” each CS in its analogue‐specific complex geometry, akin to molecular docking events. Leveraging the resultant spectral fingerprints, we achieve > 97 % classification accuracy for 4 CSs and 5 potential structural interferences, as well as attain multiplex CS quantification with < 3 % prediction error. These insights could enable practical SERS differentiation of biologically important isomers to meet the burgeoning demand for fast‐responding applications across various fields such as biodiagnostics, food and environmental surveillance.
Degradable and Recyclable Polyesters from Multiple Chain Length Bio‐ and Waste‐Sourceable Monomers
Authors: Nelson Taylor F. , Rothauer Dario , Sander Michael , Mecking Stefan
Published: September 2023

Monomers sourced from waste or biomass are often mixtures of different chain lengths; e.g. catalytic oxidation of polyethylene waste yields mixtures of dicarboxylic acids (DCAs). Yet, polyesters synthesized from such monomer mixtures have rarely been studied. We report polyesters based on multiple linear aliphatic DCAs, present in chain length distributions that vary in their centers and ranges. We demonstrate that these materials can adopt high‐density polyethylene‐like solid state structures, and are ductile (e.g. Et 610 MPa), allowing for injection molding, or film and fiber extrusion. Melting and crystallization points of the polyesters show no odd‐even effects as dipoles cannot favorably align in the crystal, similar to traditional odd carbon numbered, long‐chain DCA polyesters. Biodegradation studies of 13C‐labelled polyesters in soil reveal rapid mineralization, and depolymerization by methanolysis indicates suitability for closed‐loop recycling.
On‐Demand Activation of Transesterification by Chemical Amplification in Dynamic Thiol‐Ene Photopolymers
Authors: Alabiso Walter , Sölle Bernhard , Reisinger David , Guedes de la Cruz Gema , Schmallegger Max , Griesser Thomas , Rossegger Elisabeth , Schlögl Sandra
Published: September 2023

Chemical amplification is a well‐established concept in photoresist technology, wherein one photochemical event leads to a cascade of follow‐up reactions that facilitate a controlled change in the solubility of a polymer. Herein, we transfer this concept to dynamic polymer networks to liberate both catalyst and functional groups required for bond exchange reactions under UV irradiation. For this, we exploit a photochemically generated acid to catalyse a deprotection reaction of an acid‐labile tert‐butoxycarbonyl group, which is employed to mask the hydroxy groups of a vinyl monomer. At the same time, the released acid serves as a catalyst for thermo‐activated transesterifications between the deprotected hydroxy and ester moieties. Introduced in an orthogonally cured (450 nm) thiol‐click photopolymer, this approach allows for a spatio‐temporally controlled activation of bond exchange reactions, which is crucial in light of the creep resistance versus reflow ability trade‐off of dynamic polymer networks.
A Solution‐Processable Porphyrin‐Based Hydrogen‐Bonded Organic Framework for Photoelectrochemical Sensing of Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Wang Chen , Song Xiyu , Wang Yao , Xu Rui , Gao Xiangyu , Shang Cheng , Lei Peng , Zeng Qingdao , Zhou Yaming , Chen Banglin , Li Peng
Published: September 2023

Detecting CO2 in complex gas mixtures is challenging due to the presence of competitive gases in the ambient atmosphere. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) techniques offer a solution, but material selection and specificity remain limiting. Here, we constructed a hydrogen‐bonded organic framework material based on a porphyrin tecton decorated with diaminotriazine (DAT) moieties. The DAT moieties on the porphyrin molecules not only facilitate the formation of complementary hydrogen bonds between the tectons but also function as recognition sites in the resulting porous HOF materials for the selective adsorption of CO2. In addition, the in‐plane growth of FDU‐HOF‐2 into anisotropic molecular sheets with large areas of up to 23000 μm2 and controllable thickness between 0.298 and 2.407 μm were realized in yields of over 89 % by a simple solution‐processing method. The FDU‐HOF‐2 can be directly grown and deposited onto different substrates including silica, carbon, and metal oxides by self‐assembly in situ in formic acid. As a proof of concept, a screen‐printing electrode deposited with FDU‐HOF‐2 was fabricate as a label‐free photoelectrochemical (PEC) sensor for CO2 detection. Such a signal‐off PEC sensor exhibits low detection limit for CO2 (2.3 ppm), reusability (at least 30 cycles), and long‐term working stability (at least 30 days).
Photocatalytic Terminal C−C Coupling Reaction Inside Water Soluble Nanocages
Authors: Roy Debojyoti , Paul Sunandita , Dasgupta Jyotishman
Published: September 2023

Developing methods that activate C−H bonds directly with high selectivity for C−C bond formation in complex organic synthesis has been a major chemistry challenge. Recently it has been shown that photoactivation of weakly polarized C−H bonds can be carried out inside a cationic water‐soluble nanocage with visible light‐mediated host‐guest charge transfer (CT) chemistry. Using this novel photoredox activation paradigm, here we demonstrate C−C bond formation to photo‐generate 1,3‐diynes at room temperature in water from terminal aromatic alkynes for the first time. The formation of cavity‐confined alkyne radical cation and the proton‐removed neutral radical species highlight the unique C−C coupling step driven by supramolecular preorganization.
Polyimide blend metal–organic framework‐based mixed matrix membrane for gas separation: A review
Authors: Lai Shuet Fen , Tan Peng Chee
Published: September 2023

Polyimide (PI), a glassy polymer, suffers from permeability–selectivity trade‐off and plasticization, which restrict its gas separation performance. Instead of exploring new materials, polymer blend and mixed matrix membrane (MMM) emerge as promising approaches in improving membrane gas separation efficiency attributed to their simplicity and cost efficiency. However, polymer immiscibility and polymer‐filler incompatibility are the main challenges encountered in these two approaches, respectively. Thus far, only limited reviews target the comparison between PI/glassy and PI/rubbery polymer blends. Besides, the review on improving the compatibility between polymer and filler in PI‐metal–organic framework (MOF) MMM is also lacking. Hence, this review aims to assess the gas separation characteristics of PI blended with glassy and rubbery polymers, focusing on the blend miscibility. It was discovered that the casting solvent's solubility parameter and solvent volatility play a part in governing the blend miscibility. Meanwhile, the efficiency of surface functionalization and ionic liquid addition in improving the polymer–filler compatibility in MMM is also reviewed. The wet method for filler incorporation demonstrates a more homogeneous filler dispersion within the membrane. Hence, its employment in MOF‐based MMM fabrication can be explored further.
Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of NTP/C with Rutile TiO2 Coating, as Anode Material for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Stüwe Teja , Werner Daniel , Stock David , Thurner Christoph W. , Thöny Alexander , Grießer Christoph , Loerting Thomas , Portenkirchner Engelbert
Published: September 2023

NaTi2(PO4)3 (NTP) is known as a promising insertion‐type anode material for aqueous and non‐aqueous sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs), due to its NASICON‐type open 3D framework which makes a zero‐strain insertion mechanism possible. NTP is considered to be an environmentally friendly, low‐cost and high safety material. However, the electrochemical performance of NTP is limited due to its poor electrical conductivity. In this work a solvothermal synthesis method is used to synthesize NTP with a nanocube (NC) morphology. In a one‐step synthesis rutile titanium dioxide (TiO2) and carbon coating of NTP are achieved (NTP/C‐RT), simultaneously, which significantly improves the poor electrical conductivity of NTP. Additional rutile coating is used to further improve the electrochemical performance compared to simple carbon coating. Rate capabilities of 301 mAh/g are achieved for NTP/C‐RT compared to 248 mAh/g for NTP/C at 0.1 C. That is, to the best of our knowledge, the highest gravimetric capacity reported for SIBs using NTP as anode material up to now. The results prove that NTP, which is itself already a promising anode material for SIBs, can be further enhanced with a combined approach of NC morphology, carbon and rutile coating, leading to superior capacities, higher than anywhere else reported in literature.
Retinoic acid delays murine palatal shelf elevation by inhibiting Wnt5a‐mediated noncanonical Wnt signaling and downstream Cdc‐42/F‐actin remodeling in mesenchymal cells
Authors: Ma Yan‐Qing , Zhang Xin‐Yu , Zhao Shi‐Wei , Li Dou , Cai Min‐Qin , Yang Hui , Wang Xiao‐Ming , Xue Hui
Published: September 2023

Background

Mammalian palatal shelves erupted from maxillary prominences undergo vertical extention, transient elevation, and horizontal growth to fuse. Previous studies in mice reported that the retinoic acid (RA) contributed to cleft palate in high incidence by delaying the elevating procedure, but little was known about the underlying biological mechanisms.

Methods

In this study, hematoxylin–eosin and immunofluorescence staining were employed to evaluate the phenotypes and the expression of related markers in the RA‐treated mice model. In situ hybridization and RT‐qPCR were used to detect the expression of genes involved in Wnt signaling pathway. The palatal mesenchymal cells were cultured in vitro, and stimulated with RA or CASIN, and co‐treated with Foxy5. Wnt5a and Ccd42 expression were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. Phalloidin was used to label the microfilament cytoskeleton (F‐actin) in cultured cells.

Results

We revealed that RA resulted in 100% incidence of cleft palate in mouse embryos, and the expression of genes responsible for Wnt5a‐mediated noncanonical Wnt signal transduction were specifically downregulated in mesenchymal palatal shelves. The in vitro study of palatal mesenchymal cells indicated that RA treatment disrupted the organized remodeling of cytoskeleton, an indicative structure of cell migration regulated by the small Rho GTPase Cdc42. Moreover, we showed that the suppression of cytoskeleton and cell migration induced by RA was partially restored using the small molecule Foxy‐5‐mediated activation of Wnt5A, and this restoration was attenuated by CASIN (a selective GTPase Cdc42 inhibitor) again.

Conclusions

These data identified a crucial mechanism for Wnt5a‐mediated noncanonical Wnt signaling in acting downstream of Rho GTPase Cdc42 to regulate cytoskeletal remodeling and cell migration during the process of palate elevation. Our study provided a new explanation for the cause of cleft palate induced by RA.
Gut microbiota contribution to selenium deficiency‐induced gut–liver inflammation
Authors: Wang Guodong , Jiang Zhihui , Song Yuwei , Xing Yueteng , He Simin , Boomi P.
Published: September 2023

There is limited knowledge about the factors that drive gut–liver axis changes after selenium (Se) deficiency‐induced gut or liver injuries. Thus, we tested Se deficiency in mice to determine its effects on intestinal bacterial balance and whether it induced liver injury. Serum Se concentration, lipopolysaccharide (LPS) level, and liver injury biomarkers were tested using a biochemical method, while pathological changes in the liver and jejunum were observed via hematoxylin and eosin stain, and a fluorescence spectrophotometer was used to evaluate intestinal permeability. Tight junction (TJ)‐related and toll‐like receptor (TLR) signaling‐related pathway genes and proteins were tested using quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, immunohistochemistry, and 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene‐targeted sequencing of jejunum microorganisms. Se deficiency significantly decreased glutathione peroxidase activity and disrupted the intestinal flora, with the most significant effect being a decrease in Lactobacillus reuteri. The expression of TJ‐related genes and proteins decreased significantly with increased treatment time, whereas supplementation with Se, fecal microbiota transplantation, or L. reuteri reversed these decreases. Signs of liver injury and LPS content were significantly increased after intestinal flora imbalance or jejunum injury, and the levels of TLR signaling‐related genes were significantly increased. The results indicated that Se deficiency disrupted the microbiota balance, decreased the expression of intestinal TJ factors, and increased intestinal permeability. By contrast, LPS increased due to a bacterial imbalance, which may induce inflammatory liver injury via the TLR4 signaling pathway.
Anti‐osteoporosis bioactivity evaluation in zebrafish model of raw and salt‐processed Achyranthes bidentata followed by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry analysis and correlation analysis
Authors: Yang Ying , Shen Lisha , Wang Ping , Tao Yi
Published: September 2023

Achyranthes bidentata has been found to possess beneficial effects against osteoporosis, but there is still a lack of comprehensive studies on its anti‐osteoporotic compounds. Therefore, in this study, we established a zebrafish osteoporosis model to evaluate the anti‐osteoporotic effect of different fractions of raw and salt‐processed A. bidentata. Among these fractions, the dichloromethane fraction showed the most promising anti‐osteoporotic effect. To further investigate the active compounds responsible for the anti‐osteoporosis effects, we prepared and analyzed the dichloromethane fraction of 10 batches of raw and salt‐processed A. bidentata using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. As a result, we tentatively identified 19 compounds, including 11 saponins, three phenolic amides, three unsaturated fatty acids and two other compounds. To further narrow down the potential active compounds, we employed both orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis and gray relationship analysis. Through these analyses, we were able to identify eight compounds that showed a high correlation with the anti‐osteoporosis effects of the dichloromethane fraction. Furthermore, we validated the anti‐osteoporotic effects of β‐ecdysterone, wogonin, ginsenoside Ro, oleanolic acid, linoleic acid and palmitic acid using the zebrafish model. These compounds demonstrated significant anti‐osteoporotic effects, further supporting their potential as active compounds in A. bidentata.
CT‐based radiomics model to predict spread through air space in resectable lung cancer
Authors: Gong Jialin , Yin Rui , Sun Leina , Gao Na , Wang Xiaofei , Zhang Lianmin , Zhang Zhenfa
Published: September 2023

Background

Spread through air space (STAS) has been identified as a pathological pattern associated with lung cancer progression. Patients with STAS were related to a worse prognosis compared with patients without STAS. The objective of this study was to establish a radiomics model capable of forecasting STAS before surgery, which can assist surgeons in selecting the most appropriate operation type for patients with STAS.

Method

There were 537 eligible patients retrospectively included in this study. ROI segmentation was performed manually on all CT images to identify the region of interest. From each segmented lesion, a total of 1688 features were extracted. The tumor size, maximum tumor diameters, and tumor type were also recorded. Using Spearman's correlation coefficient to calculate the correlation and redundancy of elements, and redundant features less than 0.80 were removed. In order to reduce the level of overfitting and avoid statistical biases, a dimension reduction process of the dataset was conducted to decrease the number of features. Finally, a radiomics model included 44 features was established to predict STAS. To evaluate the performance of the model, the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used, and the area under the curve (AUC) was calculated, and the accuracy of the model was verified by 10‐fold cross‐validation.

Results

The incidence of STAS was 38.2% (205/537). The tumor type, maximum tumor diameters, and consolidation tumor ratio were significantly different between STAS group and non‐STAS group. The training group included 430 patients, while the test group was consisted with 107. The training group achieved an AUC of 0.825 (sensitivity, 0.875; specificity, 0.621; and accuracy, 0.749) and the test group had an AUC of 0.802 (sensitivity, 0.797; specificity,0.688; and accuracy, 0.748). The 10‐fold cross‐validation had an AUC of 0.834.

Conclusion

CT‐based radiomic model can predict STAS effectively, which is of great importance to guide the selection of operation types before surgery.
Identification of microbial markers associated with lung cancer based on multi‐cohort 16 s rRNA analyses: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Han Wenjie , Wang Na , Han Mengzhen , Liu Xiaolin , Sun Tao , Xu Junnan
Published: September 2023

Background

The relationship between commensal microbiota and lung cancer (LC) has been studied extensively. However, developing replicable microbiological markers for early LC diagnosis across multiple populations has remained challenging. Current studies are limited to a single region, single LC subtype, and small sample size. Therefore, we aimed to perform the first large‐scale meta‐analysis for identifying micro biomarkers for LC screening by integrating gut and respiratory samples from multiple studies and building a machine‐learning classifier.

Methods

In total, 712 gut and 393 respiratory samples were assessed via 16 s rRNA amplicon sequencing. After identifying the taxa of differential biomarkers, we established random forest models to distinguish between LC populations and normal controls. We validated the robustness and specificity of the model using external cohorts. Moreover, we also used the KEGG database for the predictive analysis of colony‐related functions.

Results

The α and β diversity indices indicated that LC patients' gut microbiota (GM) and lung microbiota (LM) differed significantly from those of the healthy population. Linear discriminant analysis (LDA) of effect size (LEfSe) helped us identify the top‐ranked biomarkers, Enterococcus, Lactobacillus, and Escherichia, in two microbial niches. The area under the curve values of the diagnostic model for the two sites were 0.81 and 0.90, respectively. KEGG enrichment analysis also revealed significant differences in microbiota‐associated functions between cancer‐affected and healthy individuals that were primarily associated with metabolic disturbances.

Conclusions

GM and LM profiles were significantly altered in LC patients, compared to healthy individuals. We identified the taxa of biomarkers at the two loci and constructed accurate diagnostic models. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of LC‐specific microbiological markers in multiple populations and contributes to the early diagnosis and screening of LC.
Integrating bioinformatic analysis and detailed experiments reveal an EMT‐related biomarker for clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Ge Yue , Ma Sheng , Zhang Junbiao , Xiong Zezhong , Li Beining , Ma Siquan , Liu Bo , Yao Xiangyang , Wang Zhihua
Published: September 2023

Background

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is associated with early recurrence and a poor prognosis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Studies have shown that EMT‐related genes play an important regulatory role in tumor invasion, metastasis, and drug resistance, but the biological functions of EMT‐related genes in ccRCC have not been specifically described.

Methods

The mRNA and clinicopathological data of 532 ccRCC and 72 normal samples were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas as a training set. The gene expression matrix and survival data of 91 and 101 ccRCC samples were obtained from the International Cancer Genome Consortium and the ArrayExpress databases as validation sets, respectively. Univariate Cox analysis was used to identify and cluster prognostic genes, and multivariate Cox was performed to construct a prognostic signature. Moreover, CIBERSORT and CellMiner were used to assess immune cell infiltration and prognostic gene‐drug sensitivity of the signature, respectively. Most importantly, we performed detailed experiments to verify the oncogenic function of a significant gene, OLFML2B, in vitro and in vivo.

Results

We constructed a prognostic signature including seven genes and divided patients into high‐risk and low‐risk groups. The prognosis of the high‐risk group was significantly worse than that of the low‐risk group through Kaplan–Meier survival analysis. Interestingly, significant differences were observed in clinical characteristics and immune cell infiltration between the two groups. In addition, a significant correlation was found between the expression of prognostic genes and the sensitivity of tumor cells to chemotherapeutics. Most importantly, OLFML2B was proved to contribute to the proliferation and metastasis of ccRCC through detailed functional experiments in vitro and in vivo, and its prognostic efficacy for ccRCC patients was affirmed.

Conclusion

We identified the prognostic signature of seven genes based on EMT‐related genes as prognostic biomarkers for ccRCC. Besides, OLFML2B was validated as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for ccRCC by our detailed experiments.