bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastrointestinal Permeation Enhancers Beyond Sodium Caprate and SNAC ‐ What is Coming Next?
Authors: Bohley Marilena , Leroux Jean‐Christophe
Published: June 2024

Oral peptide delivery is trending again. Among the possible reasons are the recent approvals of two oral peptide formulations, which represent a huge stride in the field. For the first time, gastrointestinal (GI) permeation enhancers (PEs) are leveraged to overcome the main limitation of oral peptide delivery—low permeability through the intestinal epithelium. Despite some success, the application of current PEs, such as salcaprozate sodium (SNAC), sodium caprylate (C8), and sodium caprate (C10), is generally resulting in relatively low oral bioavailabilities (BAs)—even for carefully selected therapeutics. With several hundred peptide‐based drugs presently in the pipeline, there is a huge unmet need for more effective PEs. Aiming to provide useful insights for the development of novel PEs, this review summarizes the biological hurdles to oral peptide delivery with special emphasis on the epithelial barrier. It describes the concepts and action modes of PEs and mentions possible new targets. It further states the benchmark that is set by current PEs, while critically assessing and evaluating emerging PEs regarding translatability, safety, and efficacy. Additionally, examples of novel PEs under preclinical and clinical evaluation and future directions are discussed.
Ultrafast Opto‐Electronic and Thermal Tuning of Third‐Harmonic Generation in a Graphene Field Effect Transistor
Authors: Ghaebi Omid , Klimmer Sebastian , Tornow Nele , Buijssen Niels , Taniguchi Takashi , Watanabe Kenji , Tomadin Andrea , Rostami Habib , Soavi Giancarlo
Published: June 2024

Graphene is a unique platform for tunable opto‐electronic applications thanks to its linear band dispersion, which allows electrical control of resonant light‐matter interactions. Tuning the nonlinear optical response of graphene is possible both electrically and in an all‐optical fashion, but each approach involves a trade‐off between speed and modulation depth. Here, lattice temperature, electron doping, and all‐optical tuning of third‐harmonic generation are combined in a hexagonal boron nitride‐encapsulated graphene opto‐electronic device and demonstrate up to 85% modulation depth along with gate‐tunable ultrafast dynamics. These results arise from the dynamic changes in the transient electronic temperature combined with Pauli blocking induced by the out‐of‐equilibrium chemical potential. The work provides a detailed description of the transient nonlinear optical and electronic response of graphene, which is crucial for the design of nanoscale and ultrafast optical modulators, detectors, and frequency converters.
Halogenated Dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline Units Constructed 2D‐Conjugated Guest Acceptors for 19% Efficiency Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Gao Jingshun , Bai Hairui , Li Ping , Zhou Yibo , Su Wenyan , Liu Chang , Li Xiaoxiao , Wu Yue , Hu Bin , Liang Zezhou , Bi Zhaozhao , Li Xiong , Yan Lihe , Du Huiling , Lu Guanghao , Gao Chao , Wang Kun , Liu Yuhang , Ma Wei , Fan Qunping
Published: June 2024

Halogenation of Y‐series small‐molecule acceptors (Y‐SMAs) is identified as an effective strategy to optimize photoelectric properties for achieving improved power‐conversion‐efficiencies (PCEs) in binary organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the effect of different halogenation in the 2D‐structured large π‐fused core of guest Y‐SMAs on ternary OSCs has not yet been systematically studied. Herein, four 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs (X‐QTP‐4F, including halogen‐free H‐QTP‐4F, chlorinated Cl‐QTP‐4F, brominated Br‐QTP‐4F, and iodinated I‐QTP‐4F) by attaching different halogens into 2D‐conjugation extended dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core are developed. Among these X‐QTP‐4F, Cl‐QTP‐4F has a higher absorption coefficient, optimized molecular crystallinity and packing, suitable cascade energy levels, and complementary absorption with PM6:L8‐BO host. Moreover, among ternary PM6:L8‐BO:X‐QTP‐4F blends, PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F obtains a more uniform and size‐suitable fibrillary network morphology, improved molecular crystallinity and packing, as well as optimized vertical phase distribution, thus boosting charge generation, transport, extraction, and suppressing energy loss of OSCs. Consequently, the PM6:L8‐BO:Cl‐QTP‐4F‐based OSCs achieve a 19.0% efficiency, which is among the state‐of‐the‐art OSCs based on 2D‐conjugated Y‐SMAs and superior to these devices based on PM6:L8‐BO host (17.70%) and with guests of H‐QTP‐4F (18.23%), Br‐QTP‐4F (18.39%), and I‐QTP‐4F (17.62%). The work indicates that halogenation in 2D‐structured dibenzo[f,h]quinoxaline core of Y‐SMAs guests is a promising strategy to gain efficient ternary OSCs.
N‐Doping Donor‐Dilute Semitransparent Organic Solar Cells to Weaken Donor: Acceptor Miscibility and Consolidate Donor‐Phase Continuity
Authors: Xie Jiaqi , Lin Weihua , Zheng Kaibo , Liang Ziqi
Published: June 2024

Lightweight and semi‐transparent organic solar cells (ST‐OSCs) offer bright promise for applications such as building integrated photovoltaics. Diluting donor content in bulk‐heterojunction active layers to allow greater visible light transmittance (AVT) effectively enhances device transparency, yet the ineluctable compromise of the donor‐phase continuity is challenging for efficient charge transport. Herein, a trace amount of n‐type N‐DMBI dopant is incorporated, which facilitates the donor:acceptor (D:A) de‐mixing by strengthening both acceptor polarity and D/A crystallization. With the diminution of component inter‐mixing, the limited number of donors increasingly self‐aggregate to establish the more continuous phases. For the benchmark PM6:Y6‐based ST‐OSCs, when the donor content is reduced from regular 45 to optimal 30 wt.%, the device AVT is remarkably raised by more than a quarter, accompanied by a marginal drop in power conversion efficiency from 13.89% to 13.03%. This study reveals that by decreasing the donor content to <30 wt%, acceptor excitons induced by Förster resonance energy transfer are prone to severe radiative recombination. This is nonetheless mitigated by dopant inclusion within the acceptor phase by providing extra energy offset and prolonging charge transfer state lifetime to assist exciton dissociation.
Ultrahigh Electrode Performance of Low‐Loaded Iridium Jagged Nanotubes for Water Electrolysis Applications
Authors: Kim Jun , Kwon Taehyun , Lee Jaeseung , Lee Hyun Ju , Jun Minki , Ham Hyung Chul , Ju Hyunchul , Kim Sangwon , Kim Jin Young
Published: June 2024

Highly active Ir electrocatalysts based on ultralow loading for proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE) applications are desirable to achieve gigawatt production levels. However, no clear direction has been developed yet to achieve that scale. Here, newly‐synthesized Ir‐based jagged nanotubes (J‐IrNTs) with the ultrahigh electrode performance of 10 A mgIr−1 at 1.6 V in a PEMWE cell at Ir loadings as low as 0.05 mgIr cm−2 are reported, outperforming previously reported Ir‐based electrocatalysts. The Ir‐JrNT also exhibits only marginal degradation in stability tests. Notably, the resulting electrode of Ir‐JrNT provides enhanced intrinsic catalytic activity and high surface area for efficient electrocatalysis, with hierarchical branching composed of interconnected multiscale channels and highly corrugated surface textures, for facile mass transport. The findings demonstrate that the jagged nanotubular structure is a promising approach for overcoming the limitations associated with Ir‐based electrocatalysts and developing sustainable advanced PEMWE.
Prussian Blue Analogues for Aqueous Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Progress and Commercialization Assessment
Authors: Yao Hao , Gao Yun , Lin Xihao , Zhang Hang , Li Li , Chou Shulei
Published: June 2024

Aqueous sodium‐ion batteries (ASIBs) are a compelling option for energy storage systems due to their high ionic conductivity, excellent cycle stability, high safety, low cost, and environmental friendliness. However, ASIBs present challenges because of low energy density and lack of suitable cathode materials, which limit their practical deployment. Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) are metal‐organic coordination materials that have open frameworks, making sodium ions easier to insert and extract. Their excellent stability and high specific capacity in aqueous electrolytes make them an attractive choice for ASIBs cathode materials. In this review, the research progress on PBAs as cathodes for ASIBs is discussed. Their crystal structure and sodium storage mechanism are elucidated, and strategies to improve the performance of PBAs are summarized in depth at the material level. New insights are put forward aiming to provide ideas for improving cycling performance, avoiding electrode dissolution, and improving energy density of PBAs for ASIBs. In addition, the performance and current issues of full cells are summarized and discussed to evaluate the commercialization potential of ASIBs, providing an outlook on research directions in the development of high‐performance aqueous batteries in grid‐scale applications.
Bibliometric analysis of management practices in US corn (1990–2020)
Authors: Sinha Namita , Dhillon Jagmandeep Singh
Published: June 2024

Bibliometric analysis explores large volume of scientific data, revealing trends and insights in a specific research field. Consistently, a bibliometric analysis of 30 years (1990–2020) was performed within the US corn (Zea maysL.) production using the Scopus database and VOSviewer. Search query was performed within the article title, abstract, and keywords indicative of management practices in corn. Exclusion criterion based on subject area and journals generated a total of 7468 publications. The data analysis revealed contributions from 7327 authors and 47 organizations documented in 69 journals. The top five organizations leading the investigation were United States Department of Agriculture – Agricultural Research Service, Iowa State University, University of Nebraska, University of Illinois, and Purdue University. The most prolific authors were Dr. Rattan Lal (Ohio State University, Columbus, OH), Dr. Douglas L. Karlen (USDA‐ARS, Ames, IA), Dr. Kenneth G. Cassman (University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE), Dr. Lajpat Rai Ahuja (USDA‐ARS, Ft. Collins, CO), and Dr. John Walsh Doran (USDA‐ARS, Lincoln, NE). Journals with most publications wereAgronomy Journal;Soil Science Society of America Journal;Soil and Tillage Research; Crop Science; andAgriculture, Ecosystems & Environment. Furthermore, author keywords differed from queried keywords, and no‐till, nitrogen, cover crop, soybean, irrigation, phosphorus, conservation tillage, yield, and water quality were most prominent. Moreover, there was an evident shift in keywords and an observed trend between 1998 and 2020. Overall, these findings allow researchers to explore network maps via the hyperlinks present in papers, identifying research gaps and advancing original studies to bridge gaps in the literature.
Impact of definitive surgery for esophageal atresia on long‐term outcomes in patients with trisomy 18
Authors: Tamaki Shoko , Iwatani Sota , Ikuta Toshihiko , Takeoka Emiko , Matsui Sachiko , Mimura Hitomi , Yokoi Akiko , Hatakeyama Tadashi , Yoshimoto Seiji , Nakao Hideto
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the long‐term outcomes of palliative and definitive surgeries for esophageal atresia (EA) in patients with trisomy 18 syndrome. A retrospective study included 25 cases undergoing EA surgery at our center between 2008 and 2022. The Palliative group (n = 16) comprised 13 cases with esophageal banding and 3 with tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) division. The Definitive group (n = 9) included 5 cases with primary repair and 4 with staged repair following TEF division. The patient characteristics exhibited no significant differences between the groups. In the Definitive group, 56% (5/9) were successfully weaned off mechanical ventilation, compared with none in the Palliative group (p = 0.002). Survival‐to‐discharge rates were 31% (5/16) in the Palliative group and 67% (6/9) in the Definitive group. Home ventilator management was required for all 5 cases that required ventilation in the Palliative group, whereas only 17% (1/6) in the Definitive group needed it. The Palliative group also required continuous oral suction for persistent saliva removal, with two cases undergoing laryngotracheal separation. Overall, definitive surgery for EA in patients with trisomy 18 syndrome may provide enhanced respiratory stability, thereby improving the survival‐to‐discharge rate and overall quality of life for patients and their families.
Multi‐center study on sellar reconstruction after endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery
Authors: Ali Hawa M. , Leland Evelyn M. , Stickney Emily , Lohse Christine M. , Iyoha Ehiremen , Valappil Benita , Filimonov Andrey , Goetschel Kaitlin , Young Sarah C. , Shahin Maryam N. , Sanusi Olabisi , Sonfack Davaine Joel Ndongo , Nadeau Sylvie , Champagne Pierre‐Olivier , Geltzeiler Mathew , Zwagerman Nathan T. , Gardner Paul A. , Wang Eric W. , Zenonos Georgios A. , Snyderman Carl , Van Gompel Jamie , Link Michael , Peris‐Celda Maria , Stokken Janalee , Choby Garret , Pinheiro‐Neto Carlos D.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Surgical techniques for sellar reconstruction include no reconstruction, use of synthetic materials, autologous grafts, and/or vascularized flaps. The aim of this study was to conduct a multi‐center study comparing the efficacy and postoperative morbidity associated with different sellar reconstruction techniques.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of patients who underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary tumors from five participating sites between January 2021 and March 2023 was performed. The variables included demographics, tumor characteristics, reconstruction technique, postoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak (CSF) leak, and 22‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) scores. Comparisons of postoperative complications, SNOT‐22 scores, and duration of surgery by type of onlay reconstruction were evaluated using Fisher's exact test, analysis of variance, and Kruskal‒Wallis test.

Results

Five hundred and one patients were identified. The median tumor size was 2.1 cm, and 64% were non‐functioning. Intraoperative CSF leak was identified in 38% of patients. A total of 89% of patients underwent onlay reconstruction: 49% were reconstructed with mucosal grafts, 35% with nasoseptal flaps, and 5% with other onlay techniques. Nasoseptal flaps were utilized more frequently in the setting of giant pituitary adenomas (>3 cm), medial cavernous sinus wall resection, and high‐flow intraoperative CSF leaks. Cases who utilized mucosal grafts had an overall shorter operating time (median: 183 min vs. 240 min; p < 0.001). Five postoperative CSF leaks were identified, and therefore, statistical analysis could not be performed for this complication.

Conclusion

The effectiveness and morbidity of different sellar reconstruction techniques are comparable. Vascularized flaps were utilized more frequently in the setting of larger tumors and high‐flow intraoperative CSF leaks.
Advancements in the Use of Artificial Saturable Absorbers for Modelocking of 2 µm Ultrafast Fiber Lasers
Authors: Raj R Akshay , Saha Saikat , Mondal Shyamal
Published: June 2024

Over the past decade, the research on modelocked 2 fiber lasers has increased rapidly. Conventionally, modelocking is achieved with the existing quantum well structures as well as 2D materials classified as Real Saturable Absorbers. As time progressed and keeping in mind the versatility, stability and robustness, demonstration of 2 fiber lasers that are modelocked by Artificial Saturable Absorbers (ASA) gained importance. This class of Saturable Absorbers exhibits interesting properties, which can make them the best candidate to replace real material‐based Saturable Absorbers. The progress of ASA based modelocking schemes in the 2 regime is explored and discussed in detail, along with its underlying physics, citing the various uses and the increasing market for ultrafast fiber lasers. Toward the end of this review, a comparison is drawn between different ASAs based modelocking schemes to get the most favorable conditions for desired output parameters as per one's needs. These fiber lasers with an all‐fiber ASA foundation have potential uses in the fields of medical, LIDAR, mid‐IR generation, environmental sensing, industrial, and defence.
Altering the CO2 Electroreduction Pathways Towards C1 or C2+ Products via Engineering the Strength of Interfacial Cu−O Bond
Authors: Zhang Yu , Li Yicheng , Gao Nana , Delmo Ernest Pahuyo , Hou Guoyu , Luo Ali , Wang Dongyang , Chen Ke , Antonietti Markus , Liu Tianxi , Tian Zhihong
Published: June 2024

Copper (Cu)‐based catalysts have established their unique capability for yielding wide value‐added products from CO2. Herein, we demonstrate that the pathways of the electrocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) can be rationally altered toward C1 or C2+ products by simply optimizing the coordination of Cu with O‐containing organic species (squaric acid (H2C4O4) and cyclohexanehexaone (C6O6)). It is revealed that the strength of Cu−O bonds can significantly affect the morphologies and electronic structures of derived Cu catalysts, resulting in the distinct behaviors during CO2RR. Specifically, the C6O6−Cu catalysts made up from organized nanodomains shows a dominant C1 pathway with a total Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 63.7 % at −0.6 V (versus reversible hydrogen electrode, RHE). In comparison, the C4O4−Cu with an about perfect crystalline structure results in uniformly dispersed Cu‐atoms, showing a notable FE of 65.8 % for C2+ products with enhanced capability of C−C coupling. The latter system also shows stable operation over at least 10 h with a high current density of 205.1 mA cm−2 at −1.0 VRHE, i.e., is already at the boarder of practical relevance. This study sheds light on the rational design of Cu‐based catalysts for directing the CO2RR reaction pathway.
A General Strategy Based on Hetero‐Charge Coupling Effect for Constructing Single‐Atom Sites
Authors: Peng Cheng , Wang Mingyue , Li Sha , Zeng Xuezhi , Wang Jieyue , Wang Wenhai , Zhang Zhirong , Ye Mingfu , Wei Xianwen , Wu Konglin , Zhang Kui , Zeng Jie
Published: June 2024

Single‐atom catalysts have emerged as cutting‐edge hotspots in the field of material science owing to their excellent catalytic performance brought about by well‐defined metal single‐atom sites (M SASs). However, huge challenges still lie in achieving the rational design and precise synthesis of M SASs. Herein, we report a novel synthesis strategy based on the hetero‐charge coupling effect (HCCE) to prepare M SASs loaded on N and S co‐doped porous carbon (M1/NSC). The proposed strategy was widely applied to prepare 17 types of M1/NSC composed of single or multi‐metal with the integrated regulation of the coordination environment and electronic structure, exhibiting good universality and flexible adjustability. Furthermore, this strategy provided a low‐cost method of efficiently synthesizing M1/NSC with high yields, that can produce more than 50 g catalyst at one time, which is key to large‐scale production. Among various as‐prepared unary M1/NSC (M can be Fe, Co, Ni, V, Cr, Mn, Mo, Pd, W, Re, Ir, Pt, or Bi) catalysts, Fe1/NSC delivered excellent performance for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to NH3 with high NH3 Faradaic efficiency of 86.6 % and high NH3 yield rate of 1.50 mg h−1 mgcat.−1 at −0.6 V vs. RHE. Even using Fe1/NSC as a cathode in a Zn‐nitrate battery, it exhibited a high open circuit voltage of 1.756 V and high energy density of 4.42 mW cm−2 with good cycling stability.
Ion Exchange‐Mediated 3D Cross‐Linked ZIF‐L Superstructure for Flexible Electrochemical Energy Storage
Authors: Ding Hongye , Liu Zheng , Xie Ju , Shen Zizhou , Yu Dianheng , Chen Yihao , Lu Yibo , Zhou Huijie , Zhang Guangxun , Pang Huan
Published: June 2024

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are considered as a promising candidate for advancing energy storage owing to their intrinsic multi‐channel architecture, high theoretical capacity, and precise adjustability. However, the low conductivity and poor structural stability lead to unsatisfactory rate and cycling performance, greatly hindering their practical application. Herein, we propose a sea urchin‐like Co‐ZIF‐L superstructure using molecular template to induce self‐assembly followed by ion exchange method, which shows improved conductivity, successive channels, and high stability. The ion exchange can gradually etch the superstructure, leading to the reconstruction of Co‐ZIF‐L with three‐dimensional (3D) cross‐linked ultrathin porous nanosheets. Moreover, the precise control of Co to Ni ratios can construct effective micro‐electric field and synergistically enhance the rapid transfer of electrons and electrolyte ions, improving the conductivity and stability of CoNi‐ZIF‐L. The Co6.53Ni‐ZIF‐L electrode exhibits a high specific capacity (602 F g−1 at 1 A g−1) and long cycling stability (95.3 % retention after 4,000 cycles at 5 A g−1). The Co6.53Ni‐ZIF‐L//AC asymmetric flexible supercapacitor employing gel electrolyte also exhibits excellent cycling stability (93.3 % retention after 4000 cycles at 5 A g−1). This discovery provides valuable insights for electrode material selection and energy storage efficiency improvement.
Polymeric Prodrugs using Dynamic Covalent Chemistry for Prolonged Local Anesthesia
Authors: Xue Tianrui , Li Yang , Torre Matthew , Shao Rachelle , Han Yiyuan , Chen Shuanglong , Lee Daniel , Kohane Daniel S.
Published: June 2024

Depot‐type drug delivery systems are designed to deliver drugs at an effective rate over an extended period. Minimizing initial “burst” can also be important, especially with drugs causing systemic toxicity. Both goals are challenging with small hydrophilic molecules. The delivery of molecules such as the ultrapotent local anesthetic tetrodotoxin (TTX) exemplifies both challenges. Toxicity can be mitigated by conjugating TTX to polymers with ester bonds, but the slow ester hydrolysis can result in subtherapeutic TTX release. Here, we developed a prodrug strategy, based on dynamic covalent chemistry utilizing a reversible reaction between the diol TTX and phenylboronic acids. These polymeric prodrugs exhibited TTX encapsulation efficiencies exceeding 90 % and the resulting polymeric nanoparticles showed a range of TTX release rates. In vivo injection of the TTX polymeric prodrugs at the sciatic nerve reduced TTX systemic toxicity and produced nerve block lasting 9.7±2.0 h, in comparison to 1.6±0.6 h from free TTX. This approach could also be used to co‐deliver the diol dexamethasone, which prolonged nerve block to 21.8±5.1 h. This work emphasized the usefulness of dynamic covalent chemistry for depot‐type drug delivery systems with slow and effective drug release kinetics.
Supramolecular Complex of Cucurbit[7]uril with Diketopyrrolopyrole Dye: Fluorescence Boost, Biolabeling and Optical Microscopy
Authors: Kim Dojin , Bossi Mariano L. , Belov Vladimir N. , Hell Stefan W.
Published: June 2024

New photostable and bright supramolecular complexes based on cucurbit[7]uril (CB7) host and diketopyrrolopyrole (DPP) guest dyes having two positively charged 4‐(trimethylammonio)phenyl groups were prepared and characterized. The dye core displays large Stokes shift (in H2O, abs./emission max. 480/550 nm; ϵ~19 000, τfl>4 ns), strong binding with the host (~560 nM Kd) and a linker affording fluorescence detection of bioconjugates with antibody and nanobody. Combination of protein‐functionalized DPP dye with CB7 improves photostability and affords up to 12‐fold emission gain. Two‐color confocal and stimulated emission depletion (STED) microscopy with 595 nm or 655 nm STED depletion lasers shows that the presence of CB7 not only leads to improved brightness and image quality, but also results in DPP becoming cell‐permeable.
Aerogel‐like biodegradable acoustic foams of bacterial cellulose
Authors: Mehrotra Nitisha , Bhuvana Thiruvelu , Tiwari Anjali , Chandraprakash C.
Published: June 2024

We report the first work on the development of biodegradable acoustic foams from self‐grown bacterial cellulose (BC) from kombucha solution and green processing techniques. Kombucha BC‐agar and kombucha BC‐polyvinyl alcohol foams were fabricated by using slurries of BC pellicles mixed with the additives, froze for 24 h, and recast into foams using the freeze‐drying method. The foams were aerogel‐like with a density 20 kg/m3, thermally stable upto 220 °C, and crystallinity ~74%. Morphological analysis revealed macropores with coarse walls in agar‐based foams, whereas the PVA‐based foams comprised a polydisperse pore network with coarse walls. A broadband absorption was observed with a maximum of 0.4 for the 2.5‐mm‐thick single‐layer foams and 0.9 for the 12‐mm‐thick multilayer foams. The sound absorption was found to be on par with the biodegradable foams of agar and other cellulose‐rich materials such as agricultural residue, yet with a lightweight. Being largely porous, the foams had little transmission loss. As the densities and the crystallinities of these foams are tunable by the addition of other polymers, the results from this study provide scope to explore BC‐based lightweight materials for large‐scale fabrication suitable for sound absorption over specific regimes.
Labour market institutions for immigrants: The case of high‐wage migrant workers in Indonesia
Authors: Palmer Wayne
Published: June 2024

This paper presents a novel ‘legal process’ analysis to examine labour market institutions' role in addressing violations of migrants' labour rights in Indonesia. Examining 92 labour disputes and conducting qualitative interviews with stakeholders, the study explores Indonesia's primary labour market institutions' effectiveness in safeguarding migrants' rights. Systemic shortcomings within Indonesia's labour market institutions are revealed, indicating their limited capacity to protect migrants' labour rights effectively. Qualitative interviews provide insights into various foci and disconnects contributing to institutional failures. Calling attention to the role of the state, this study identifies ‘institutional fixes’ that facilitate migrant rights protection, such as the assistance provided by private lawyers. It argues for shifting focus from ‘migrant exceptionalism’ to acknowledging migrants' experiences within labour market institutions as workers. This study contributes to understanding migrant labour governance in Indonesia, emphasizing the need to address institutional failures and advocate for comprehensive reforms to protect migrants' rights effectively.
Fabrication of Porous Adsorbents Templated from Capillary Foam Stabilized with Chlorella for Highly Efficient Removal of Cationic Dyes
Authors: Yu Hui , Zhu Yongfeng , Duan Fangzhi , Hui Aiping , Wang Aiqin
Published: June 2024

The thermodynamic instability of conventional aqueous foam‐stabilized surfactants is a critical bottleneck in the construction of porous materials. Herein, a novel strategy is proposed for preparing a capillary foam based on Chlorella and utilizing it as a template for constructing porous materials with high‐efficiency adsorption. The capillary foam was stabilized by Chlorella particles enclosed within a gel network of oil bridges connecting the particles (capillary suspension). Chlorella particles, which act as stable particles, form oil bridges and are distributed at the phase interface of the capillary foam. These particles exhibited resistance to shear forces, allowing the formation of a long‐term stable capillary foam. Using this foam as a template, a porous material with outstanding adsorption performance for Methylene Blue (MB) and Brilliant Green (BG) dyes was successfully constructed. Additionally, the material exhibited a sustained high adsorption performance even after five thermal regeneration‐adsorption cycles. In conclusion, this study presents a green and straightforward method for constructing capillary foams with high stability, which is a promising approach for developing porous materials with exceptional adsorption and regeneration properties for dyes.
A robust network binder enables high‐performance silicon anode via localized linking by small molecules
Authors: Chen Junyi , Han Lin , Zhang Wu , Wan Guangying , Zhang Zhen , Tao Xinyong , Liu Tiefeng
Published: June 2024

The importance of network binder for improving cycling lifespan of silicon (Si) anode needs no further emphasis. However, the linear structure of natural polymer hardly creates a robust network binder. Herein, we propose a facile strategy of establishing a robust network binder by using small molecules of tartaric acid (TA) to locally link sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). Through hydrogen or covalent bonds, the resultant CMC‐TA binder exhibits improved tensile and adhesive properties. The Si anode using CMC‐TA binder delivers a satisfactory specific capacity of 2213 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at the rate of 0.2 C, with a capacity retention rate of 68.8%. This result has well confirmed the effectiveness of using small molecules to reinforce hydrogen‐bonding linking between CMC and between Si particles for a high‐performance Si anode.
TRIM8 promotes ovarian cancer proliferation and migration by targeting VDAC2 for ubiquitination and degradation
Authors: Wu Fei , Xu Jiaqi , Jin Xin , Zhu Yue , Gao Wenxin , Liu Meng , Zhang Yan , Qian Weifeng , Huang Xiaoyan , Zhao Dan , Feng Guannan , Hou Shunyu , Xi Xiaoxue
Published: June 2024

Background

Ovarian cancer is a common gynecological tumor with high malignant potential and poor prognosis. TRIM8, is involved in the development of various tumors, but its precise regulatory role in ovarian cancer is still unknown.

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore the specific mechanism by which TRIM8 regulates ovarian cancer.

Materials and Methods

We used bioinformatics analysis to screen for high expression of TRIM8 in ovarian cancer. The expression of TRIM8 in healthy and cancerous ovarian tissues was assessed by immunofluorescence. TRIM8 was silenced or overexpressed in ovarian cancer cell lines, with cell proliferation and migration evaluated by CCK8, transwell and clonal formation assays. The effect of TRIM8 on ovarian cancer cells in vivo was assessed by subcutaneous tumor formation experiments in nude mice. The potential interacting protein VDAC2 was identified by mass spectrometry. The mechanism underlying TRIM8 regulation of VDAC2 was evaluated by co‐immunoprecipitation and western blotting.

Results

TRIM8 was overexpressed in ovarian cancer. TRIM8 promoted the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells in vitro and the growth of subcutaneous tumors in mice in vivo. TRIM8 interacted with VDAC2, weakened the stability of the protein, and promoted its polyubiquitination and subsequent degradation. Knockdown of VDAC2 increased the resistance of ovarian cancer cells to iron death, whereas overexpression of VDAC2 attenuated ovarian cancer progression induced by TRIM8 overexpression.

Discussion

TRIM8 promotes ovarian cancer proliferation and migration by targeting VDAC2 for ubiquitination and degradation, these finding may provide new targets for the treatment of ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

TRIM8 degraded VDAC2 through the ubiquitination pathway, increased the resistance of ovarian cancer cells to iron death, and promoted the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer.
Squirrel bite—a rare cause of necrotizing soft tissue infection: Case report
Authors: Adjei Prosper , Bosomtwi Boateng , Asamoah Prince Henry , Asasu Stanley Anenyemele , Ohene Dominic Asante , Amoakohene‐Yeboah Augustina , Abban Kojo Eduakwa
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Although squirrel bites are uncommon and generally benign, they have been implicated in the transmission of certain diseases in humans, some of which can be life‐threatening. This report discusses the case of a 27‐year‐old hunter who developed a necrotizing soft tissue infection with vesiculo‐bullous skin lesions after a ground squirrel bite.
Sleep disruptions and the pathway to psychosis: An in‐depth case and literature review
Authors: Kim Jeffrey , Prasad Sakshi , Roshan Nikhita Suzanne , Hasan Bushra Farah , Gill Gurtej , Gunturu Sasidhar
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

The case highlights an unusual presentation where sleep issues preceded psychotic symptoms, implying link between disrupted sleep and psychosis onset. Earlier symptoms were viewed as depression but may have signaled psychosis exacerbated by insomnia.

Sleep disorders, prevalent yet frequently overlooked in individuals with psychotic disorders, have significant associations with the onset and severity of psychosis. Here we describe the case of a patient who first presented with insomnia, but whose condition improved with the use of risperidone and was diagnosed with first‐episode psychosis. Multiple studies emphasize the critical relationship between sleep disturbances and psychosis, particularly in the lead‐up to first‐episode psychosis. Structural abnormalities in the brain, notably the thalamus, combined with neurotransmitter imbalances involving dopamine and acetylcholine, seem pivotal in this interrelation. The connection between dopamine, sleep disturbances, and psychosis, specifically the role of D2 dopamine receptors, highlights a potential pathway bridging sleep irregularities with psychosis. The study underscores the need for further research to delineate the relationship between sleep disturbances and psychosis and to assess the efficacy of various therapeutic interventions targeting both conditions.
A Perspective on Photocatalytic Synthesis of NH3, Urea, and Amino Acids by Nanomaterials: Progress and Prospects
Authors: Bhattacharyya Biswajit , Sarhan Radwan M. , Lu Yan , Taubert Andreas
Published: June 2024

A sustainable world is only possible when we are ready to deliver a net zero carbon emission energy sector. In this regard, we must not only consider more renewable energy resources but also find alternate paths for making some popular molecules like NH3 and urea for a lesser carbon footprint. This perspective article summarizes the recent progress of the photocatalytic synthesis of NH3, urea, and some amino acids using novel nanomaterials where we have focused on various approaches to catalyst design like metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal‐free catalysts, and biomimicking catalysts for ambient condition N2 activation. Later we discussed general reaction pathways, a detailed mechanistic overview, and future material layout for a sustainable approach towards N2 activation.
Photoelectrocatalytic Water Splitting by Conformal Copper‐Oxide on Hematite Nanostructures: Dependence on Surface‐States
Authors: Benkó Tímea , Shen Shaohua , Németh Miklós , Lukács Dávid , Xu Yufei , Khan Irfan , Czigány Zsolt , Endre Horváth Zsolt , Kovács Zoltán , Su Jinzhan , Sándor Pap József
Published: June 2024

Understanding the pivotal role of surface co‐catalysts is paramount in the strategic design of forthcoming photoelectrodes. However, the nuanced impacts of co‐catalysts remain elusive, particularly in promoting the water oxidation reaction on hematite, especially in connection to surface states denoted as S1 (higher energy) and S2 (lower energy). For this purpose, we tailored two isomorphous hematite nanoarrays with a thin layer of amorphous copper oxide (CuOx), composed of a blend of Cu(I) and Cu(II) species, via a soft electrodeposition technique. Remarkably, we discovered that in pristine hematite (α‐Fe2O3), the S2 state played a pivotal role in activating the CuOx ad‐layer for water oxidation. At lower external biases (approximately 0.9–1.1 VRHE), CuOx served as charge reservoir in equilibrium with the S2 state. Notably, beyond 1.1 VRHE, where the high‐energy holes of the S1 state became available, CuOx was activated indirectly through the equilibrium with the S2 state, and a pronounced enhancement in photocurrent was observed. Conversely, in the case of Ti‐doped hematite (Ti : α‐Fe2O3) devoid of the S2 state, the presence of CuOx resulted in a decline in charge transfer efficiency. Instead of facilitating water oxidation, CuOx adversely affected the S1 surface sites and reduced the charge carrier density in Ti : α‐Fe2O3.
Sulfoxide‐Mediated Cys‐Trp‐Selective Bioconjugation that Enables Protein Labeling and Peptide Heterodimerization
Authors: Kobayashi Daishiro , Denda Masaya , Hayashi Junya , Hidaka Kota , Kohmura Yutaka , Tsunematsu Takaaki , Nishino Kohei , Yoshikawa Harunori , Ohkawachi Kento , Nigorikawa Kiyomi , Yoshimaru Tetsuro , Ishimaru Naozumi , Nomura Wataru , Katagiri Toyomasa , Kosako Hidetaka , Otaka Akira
Published: June 2024

A method was developed that enables the magnesium chloride (MgCl2)‐activated S‐acetamidomethyl cysteine sulfoxide (Cys(Acm)(O)) to induce the sp2(C−H) sulfenylation of the indole of Trp residues. The reaction operates under mild acidic conditions using acetic acid or an ionic liquid to give the Trp‐sulfenylated products. Other than Trp, all other proteinogenic amino acids are unreactive to the sulfenylation conditions. We demonstrated the successful application of this reaction to various peptides, including lysozyme. Furthermore, we achieved the Trp‐modification of a monoclonal antibody by a MgCl2‐mediated reaction in an acidic ionic liquid. The resulting antibody exhibited antibody performance comparable to the parent protein. The amide moiety in the Acm group contributes to the difference in chemical behaviors between S‐Acm and S‐p‐methoxybenzyl (MBzl)‐protected cysteine sulfoxides. This is because the S‐Acm sulfoxide is converted to S‐chlorocysteine responsible for Trp‐sulfenylation under less acidic conditions than those required for the reaction of S‐MBzl sulfoxide. Based on this rationale, we prepared a linker possessing S‐Acm and S‐MBzl oxide moieties and subjected the linker to heterodimerization of DNA‐binding MYC and MAX peptides containing a Trp handle. The one‐pot/stepwise Cys‐Trp conjugation between the linker and DNA‐binding peptides allowed the generation of a heterodimeric MYC/MAX DNA binder.
Tripodal BODIPY‐Tagged and Functional Molecular Probes: Synthesis, Computational Investigations and Explorations by Multiphoton Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy
Authors: Lledos Marina , Calatayud David G. , Cortezon‐Tamarit Fernando , Ge Haobo , Pourzand Charareh , Botchway Stanley W. , Sodupe Mariona , Lledós Agustí , Eggleston Ian M. , Pascu Sofia I.
Published: June 2024

A range of novel BODIPY derivatives with a tripodal aromatic core was synthesized and characterized spectroscopically. These new fluorophores showed promising features as probes for in vitro assays in live cells and offer strategic routes for further functionalization towards hybrid nanomaterials. Incorporation of biotin tags facilitated proof‐of‐concept access to targeted bioconjugates as molecular probes. Computational explorations using DFT and TD‐DFT calculations identified the most stable tripodal linker conformations and predicted their absorption and emission behavior. The uptake and speciation of these molecules in living prostate cancer cells was imaged by single‐ and two‐photon excitation techniques coupled with two‐photon fluorescence lifetime imaging (2P FLIM).
Crystalline Boron‐Centered Analogues of Müller's Hydrocarbon
Authors: Pan Guo , Bao Qidi , Liu Xiaona , Jiang Yuqi , Zhou Ren , Xu Tianze , Li Qianli , Su Yuanting
Published: June 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Müller's hydrocarbon is a well‐known open‐shell singlet diradicaloid, yet its structural determination and redox property remain elusive due to its extremely high reactivity. Herein, we report the successful synthesis and full characterizations of the first neutral boron‐centered analogue (4) of Müller's hydrocarbon, along with the first dianionic boron‐centered analogue (52−) featuring three isolable redox states. In the presence of two equivalents of N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC), reduction of 4,4”‐bis(triisopropylphenylbromoboryl)terphenyl 3 with potassium graphite afforded NHC‐stabilized boryl diradicaloid 4 with a near‐pure diradical character (y0 = 0.93). Stepwise reductions of 4,4”‐bis(dimesitylboryl)terphenyl 5 in THF yielded the isolable monoradical anion 5·− and diradical dianion 52−, respectively, accompanied by a decreasing aromaticity within the conjugated spacer. Experimental studies and theoretical analyses revealed that both 4 and 52− exhibit large spin distributions at boron atoms, open‐shell singlet ground states, and small singlet‐triplet energy gaps.
Evaluating the patient sociodemographic factors affecting dental students' clinical communication skills using a three‐perspective approach
Authors: Ab Ghani Siti Mariam , Mohd Khairuddin Puteri Nurul Adila , Md Sabri Budi Aslinie , Schonwetter Dieter , Lim Tong Wah
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess undergraduate dental students' communication skills in relation to patient sociodemographic factors using a three‐perspective approach; the student, the patient, and the clinical instructor perspective.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using validated modified‐communication tools; Patient Communication Assessment Instruments (PCAI), Student Communication Assessment Instruments (SCAI), and Clinical Communication Assessment Instruments (CCAI). Moreover, 176 undergraduate clinical year students were recruited in this study whereby each student was assessed by a clinical instructor, a patient, and self‐evaluation.

Results

The clinical communication skills domains were not significantly influenced by patient sociodemographic factors, including sex, educational background, and the number of visits (p > .05). However, this study revealed a statistically significant difference in the domain of “caring and respectful” of the SCAI between the low‐ and middle‐income groups.

Conclusions

Overall, most of the patient sociodemographic factors did not affect clinical communication skills. However, patient income groups played a significant role in one of the communication domains.
Effect of lipid‐mediated moisture status on casein characteristic in two types of milk powders during accelerated storage
Authors: Yan Haixia , Ma Chao , Shen Yixiao , Ye Bo , Liu Ling
Published: June 2024

This study aims to investigate the relationship between casein oxidation and moisture status in the presence of milk fat to clarify the role of fat on water in milk powder. The results showed that at the same water activity (aw), the faster oxidation of whole milk powder (WMP) is attributed to the high proportion of free water and immobilized water in them, indicating that the adsorption of milk fat mainly depended on multilayer water and the entrapped water. In the diffusion‐limited reaction, changes in water state affected more than radicals on casein oxidation. Glass transition temperature (Tg) was also affected by the water state of lipid adsorption. At low aw (<0.4), the water content of WMP and skim milk powder (SMP) was similar, but the Tg of WMP was significantly lower than SMP, especially when aw was 0.33, its Tg was <0. It suggested that water state rather than water content was the main factor affecting Tg. Especially, because the mobile water absorbed by milk fat in WMP reduced Tg, which further led to the acceleration of lactose crystallization, casein oxidative aggregation, and Maillard reaction.
Blue‐Emissive Fluorescent Zinc(II) Complexes with Bis(imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine)methane Ligands
Authors: Colombo Gioele , Cinco Anita , Vola Chiara , Therrien Bruno , Ardizzoia G. Attilio , Brenna Stefano
Published: June 2024

Three bis(imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine)methane derivatives (bis(1‐methylimidazo[1,5‐a]pyridin‐3‐yl)methane, LH; 3,3'‐(ethane‐1,1‐diyl)bis(1‐methylimidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine) LMe; 3,3'‐(2‐phenylethane‐1,1‐diyl)bis(1‐methylimidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine), LBz) have been synthesized, and fully characterized in solution (1H and 13C NMR spectra) and in the solid state (X‐ray). In particular, LH has been prepared in high yield (75%) under very mild conditions (water, 60°C), offering an alternative route to those reported in the literature. LMe and LBz have been obtained from LH by functionalization of the methylene bridge. The bis(imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine)methane compounds have been coordinated to a zinc(II) center, leading to tetrahedral complexes of general formula [Zn(LR)2](ClO4)2 (R = H, Me, Bz), which showed a bright fluorescent emission with (x,y) color coordinates very close to standard blue. TD‐DFT have been employed to describe the Frontier Molecular Orbitals (FMOs) participating in electronic transitions, highlighting the main transition as 1(π‐π*) transition in the bis(imidazo[1,5‐a]pyridine)methane and a mixed intra‐ligand (1ILT) and ligand‐to‐ligand (1LLT) transition in the complexes.
Synthesis of Deoxy Pyranosides Via Fe(III) Catalyzed Regioselective Thiocarbonylation of Partially Protected Carbohydrates
Authors: Zhao Jie , Zhang Xiaorui , Yang Qichang , Wang Haifeng , Gu Shuang‐Xi , Yan Qiongjiao , Lv Jian , Chen Fen‐Er
Published: June 2024

Rapid and efficient synthesis of targeted deoxygenated glycosides is highly desired. Herein, we disclose a two‐step procedure for the synthesis of deoxysugars from partially protected pyranosides via site‐selective thiocarbonylation followed by tin‐free Barton–McCombie deoxygenation. The selectivity can be smoothly achieved through anhydrous FeCl3 as the catalyst assisted by low‐priced benzoyltrifluoroacetonate (Hbtfa) ligand in the presence of K2CO3 as base. Further deoxygenation can be carried out using greener silicon reagent, avoiding highly toxic organotin reagents in traditional procedures. Conspicuous features of this method include mild conditions, easy operation, high selectivity and non or low toxic reagents, making it a more attractive strategy.
Global gaps in citizen‐science data reveal the world's “lost” birds
Authors: Rutt Cameron L , Miller Eliot T , Berryman Alex J , Safford Roger J , Biggs Christina , Mittermeier John C
Published: June 2024

Biodiversity knowledge gaps, which limit scientific research and conservation planning, are especially acute for the most poorly known organisms. Citizen science offers a powerful and effective means to fill these gaps. The recent growth of citizen‐science platforms has resulted in near‐complete coverage of global avian diversity (~11,849 species). Because shrinking knowledge gaps increasingly reveal meaningful absences, we evaluated the potential of citizen‐science data to establish “lost” bird taxa: those without documentation for more than 10 years. Collating more than 42 million photographic, audio, and video records returned 144 bird species (1.2%) as lost, the majority of which (62%) are in danger of extinction. The higher the coverage by citizen scientists and the longer the interval since their last documented record, the more likely that lost birds are to be imperiled. Our approach provides a data‐driven and reproducible method to identify lost species and elucidates high‐priority knowledge gaps to inform future conservation action.
Decoupled and unconditionally stable iteration method for stationary Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Chen Jianhua , Jiang Yingying , Zhang Guo‐Dong
Published: June 2024

It is well known the Oseen iteration for the stationary Navier–Stokes equations is unconditionally stable. However, it is a coupled type scheme where the velocity and pressure are coupled together at each iteration. By treating pressure explicitly would lead to a decoupled iteration, but this treatment is unstable. In this article, we construct a decoupled and unconditionally stable iteration method to solve the stationary Navier–Stokes equations by adopting the pressure projection method to the temporal disturbed Navier–Stokes system whose solution approximates the steady state solution over time (). We also rigorously prove its unconditional stability. Numerical simulations demonstrate that our iterative method is more efficient and stable than the extensively used T‐S and Oseen iterations, and could solve the fluid flow with high Reynolds number.
South to south collaboration: From establishment of a public IVF center to sustaining high‐performing IVF services in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Sium Abraham Fessehaye , Surur Feiruz , Negash Mustefa
Published: June 2024

Synopsis

South to south collaboration in infertility care and training is feasible and cost effective among countries in the global south.