bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical Validation of Face‐Fit Surface‐Lighting Micro Light‐Emitting Diode Mask for Skin Anti‐Aging Treatment
Authors: Kim Min Seo , An Jaehun , Lee Jae Hee , Lee Seung Hyung , Min Seongwook , Kim Young Bin , Song Myoung , Park Sang Hyun , Nam Ki Yun , Park Hong Jin , Kim Ki Soo , Oh Sang Ho , Hahn Dongseon , Moon Jongsoo , Park June Whan , Park Jae Sung , Kim Taek‐Soo , Kim Beom Joon , Lee Keon Jae
Published: October 2024

Photobiomodulation therapy based on micro light‐emitting diodes (µLEDs) holds remarkable potential for the beauty industry. Here, a cosmetically effective face‐fit surface‐lighting µLED mask for skin anti‐aging is introduced. The face‐conformable mask enables deep tissue treatment through proximal light irradiation, with a 3D origami structure capable of adapting to complex facial contours with closed adherence. A blister‐assisted laser transfer achieves rapid and accurate µLEDs transfer at a high throughput of 50 chips per second, facilitating a mass‐producible and large‐area process. Finally, clinical trials demonstrate significant improvements in elasticity, sagging, and wrinkles across six facial areas, with a maximum enhancement of 340% in deep skin elasticity of the perioral area compared to the conventional LED mask group.
Synergistic Cationic Shielding and Anionic Chemistry of Potassium Hydrogen Phthalate for Ultrastable Zn─I2 Full Batteries
Authors: Fu Hao , Huang Shengyang , Wang Tian , Lu Jun , Xiong Peixun , Yao Kai , Byun Jin Suk , Li Wenwu , Kim Youngkwon , Park Ho Seok
Published: October 2024

Electrolyte additives are investigated to resolve dendrite growth, hydrogen evolution reaction, and corrosion of Zn metal. In particular, the electrostatic shielding cationic strategy is considered an effective method to regulate deposition morphology. However, it is very difficult for such a simple cationic modification to avoid competitive hydrogen evolution reactions, corrosion, and interfacial pH fluctuations. Herein, multifunctional additives of potassium hydrogen phthalate (KHP) based on the synergistic design of cationic shielding and anionic chemistry for ultrastable Zn||I2 full batteries are demonstrated. K cations, acting as electrostatic shielding cations, constructed the smooth deposition morphology. HP anions can enter the first solvation shell of Zn2+ for the reduced activities of H2O, while they remain in the primary solvation shell and are finally involved in the formation of SEI, thus accelerating the charge transfer kinetics. Furthermore, by in situ monitoring the near‐surface pH of the Zn electrode, the KHP additives can effectively inhibit the accumulation of OH− and the formation of by‐products. Consequently, the symmetric cells achieve a high stripping–plating reversibility of over 4500 and 2600 h at 1.0 and 5 mA cm−2, respectively. The Zn||I2 full cells deliver an ultralong term stability of over 1400 cycles with a high‐capacity retention of 78.5%.
Solid‐State Revolution: Assessing the Potential of Solid Polymer Electrolytes in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Hadad Saeed , Pope Michael A. , Kamkar Milad , Tam Kam Chiu
Published: October 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) are crucial for achieving sustainable energy goals due to their high energy density and long cycle life. They dominate markets like consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and stationary energy storage systems. However, current LIBs use liquid electrolytes, which are toxic, flammable, and their liquid state does not resist dendrite growth, causing battery capacity decline and failure. Additionally, the limited availability of lithium and other metals makes liquid‐based LIBs less sustainable. On the other hand, solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) offer a safer alternative as they are non‐volatile and can resist dendrite growth. However, ion transport in solids is much more restricted than in liquids, while imperfect solid‐solid interfaces contribute to interfacial resistance leading to lower ionic conductivity and increasing Ohmic losses or requiring battery operation at elevated temperatures. Chemical and mechanical degradation of these interfaces can also result in battery capacity fade, and poorer cyclic performance compared to liquid electrolytes. Understanding the ionic transport mechanisms in SPEs is critical for designing and optimizing the nanostructure of polymers and polymer/electrode interfaces to overcome these limitations. In this review, the fundamental mechanisms of ion transport in SPEs will first be explored. Various state‐of‐the‐art approaches for addressing the key challenges in SPEs and their solutions are then discussed. Furthermore, the current status of SPEs is analyzed to determine their potential for replacing liquid electrolytes in the future.
Ordered PdBi Alloys for High‐Performance CO2 Electroreduction and Enhanced Formic Acid Selectivity
Authors: Liu Moxuan , Zhou Anning , Xu Zhongshuang , Jiang Yuhan , Zhang Lei , Fan Qikui
Published: October 2024

Electrocatalytic conversion of CO2 to formic acid (HCOOH) represents a promising approach for storing renewable energy and addressing the challenges of hydrogen storage and transportation. Palladium (Pd) is the only known metal capable of achieving this process at nearly zero overpotential. However, its practical applications are severely limited by hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) competition and CO poisoning. Bimetallic alloys, especially intermetallics with ordered structures, offer an effective way to optimize performance due to their unique catalytic properties. Here, PdBi alloys are synthesized with ordered structures and adjustable ratios of active sites for efficient CO2 electroreduction to HCOOH. The o‐PdBi2 alloy effectively suppresses both HER competition and CO production during the CO2 reduction process, achieving ≈95% HCOOH selectivity across a wide range of current densities and excellent stability at industrial‐level current densities. Additionally, the ordered structure facilitates high selectivity maintenance while mitigating overpotential, resulting in a cell voltage of only 2.65 V at 200 mA cm−2. These findings provide a pathway for the practical application of Pd‐based catalysts in CO2 electroreduction.
Dynamic Coordination Engineering of Z‐Scheme (FFV)2PdCl2/C3N4 Heterojunction for Superior Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xu Jiapeng , Liu Dong , Li Xinming , Zhang Xiaohu , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yuexing , Peng Tianyou
Published: October 2024

Realizing highly efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a key challenge. Herein, a (FFV)2PdCl2 complex is developed with dynamic coordination engineering between the PdII site and Fluoflavin (FFV) ligands, and couple it with graphite carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) ultrathin nanosheets to construct a novel Z‐scheme heterojunction ((FFV)2PdCl2/C3N4). The resultant heterojunction delivers a HER activity of 648 µmol  h−1 under visible light (λ ≥ 400 nm) illumination and an apparent quantum yield up to 40.1% at 400 nm, far superior to those g‐C3N4‐based catalysts reported previously. Mechanistic and theoretical studies reveal that the dynamic coordination between the PdII site and FFV ligands not only significantly accelerates the electron transfer from g‐C3N4 to (FFV)2PdCl2 and then to the PdII sites via a Z‐scheme mechanism, but also effectively maintain the efficacy and stability of the PdII active sties, and thus the (FFV)2PdCl2/C3N4 with a ultralow Pd‐loading amount (ca. 0.1 wt.%) exhibits the impressive activity and durability. The present dynamic coordination and structural evolution of (FFV)2PdCl2 are also applicable for significantly improving the HER performance of other semiconductors, thus paving a potential way for manufacturing highly efficient and active H2 production systems.
Diatoms Inspired Green Janus Fabric for Efficient Fog Harvesting
Authors: Chen Yinjie , Ji Yating , Li Xiaoyan , Hou Keru , Cai Zaisheng
Published: October 2024

Fog harvesting is a promising path against the global freshwater scarcity. Asymmetric wettability fabric‐based fog collection materials inspired by the Namib desert beetle have been reported widely due to their easy access and adjustable structures. Nevertheless, the single drive force for water transportation produced by the asymmetric wettability is insufficient, causing a non‐ideal fog harvesting efficiency. Moreover, sustainability challenges persist for fog collection materials, primarily due to their heavy dependence on chemical treatments. Herein, a diatom‐inspired Janus fabric (Ly/Csp‐3) based on asymmetric wettability and aperture gradient is developed without additional physical or chemical treatment. The wettability gradient and aperture gradient generate dual directional drive forces that regulate the water transport direction more accurately and enhance the transportation rate more effectively. Ly/Csp‐3 reaches a one‐way transport index of 390.7% and a water collecting rate (WCR) of 1170.5 mg cm−2 h−1, while exhibiting the capability of anti‐acid rain and the resistance to sunlight. This work provides an efficient and programmable biomimetic design proposal for fibrous fog harvesting devices.
Rational Design of 3D Hierarchical Fe3S4 for Superior Sodium‐Ion Battery Anode Material
Authors: Gong Yuteng , Sun Yufeng , Li Yu , Wu Chuan , Bai Ying
Published: October 2024

Among various transition metal sulfides, iron‐based sulfides have attracted wide attention due to their abundant resources, low cost, and non‐toxicity, showing considerable research value in the field of secondary batteries. Thereinto, Fe3S4 has a high theoretical specific capacity of 785 mAh g−1. However, at present, the research related to Fe3S4 anode for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) is still in its infancy, and it also suffers from severe volume expansion and limited preparation. Therefore, to further boost its sodium storage potential, the Fe3S4@rGO composite with hierarchical structure and carbonaceous network is proposed in this study. Beneficial from the ingenious hierarchitectures and flexible graphene coating, the Fe3S4@rGO anode exhibits outstanding sodium storage performance, which can deliver a high capacity of 603 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles with a superior capacity retention of 98%. The micron flower‐like structure composed of 2D nanosheets can provide sufficient active sites and promote the rapid transport of Na+. Meanwhile, the 3D interconnected graphene carbon network makes a crucial contribution to alleviating volume changes and enhancing electrical conductivity. This work reveals the application potential of Fe3S4 as an anode electrode for SIBs and provides available insights for the development of other electrode materials.
An Overview of the Cancer Targeting Attributes of the Elastin Like Polypeptide Nano‐Carriers: Discerning Active and Passive Modes
Authors: Goel Ridhima , Gulwani Deepak , Upadhyay Priyanka , Sarangthem Vijaya , Singh Thoudam Debraj
Published: October 2024

Since the 1940s, generalized cytotoxic therapy has been a valuable tool in cancer treatment. Over the years, there's been a significant increase in developing potential cytotoxic drugs. However, little progress has been made in enhancing patients' quality of life. The therapeutic index is limited due to the drug's poor solubility and lack of selectivity. Various carriers have been explored for drug delivery to enhance efficacy. Yet, there's a gap for a versatile delivery system that can adjust to specific drug and application requirements. Here, a multifaceted drug delivery platform based on a genetically engineered nature‐inspired polymer, elastin‐like polypeptide (ELP) is introduced. This technology enables the customization of the polymeric vehicle's physicochemical characteristics to suit the needs of a specific drug and application. The review highlights ELP's advantages in cancer targeting, such as site‐specificity, controlled release, biocompatibility, and extended plasma circulation. For the first time, ELP‐based drug delivery into passive and active targeting for better comprehension of its adaptability is classified. Moreover, numerous opportunities for loading different types of drugs onto the polymer are outlined. Finally, the polymer's efficacy in delivery across multiple cancer types, underscoring the wide spectrum of ELP‐based cancer drug delivery is precisely described.
ROS‐Activatable Prodrug of Doxazolidine as Novel Cancer Therapy Paradigm
Authors: Tamura Ryo , Carpenter Chace I. , Thomas Charlotte M. , Kamyabi Ghazal , Hsu Hsiao‐Ting , Vergnolle Olivia , Balderes Paul , Grimm Jan
Published: October 2024

Overcoming severe side effects from anticancer agents without decreasing their effects on tumor growth is a major challenge. A prodrug technology is reported using agents that are spatiotemporally activated primarily in tumors while the extratumoral toxicity to healthy cells is minimized. A ROS‐activatable prodrug of a strong anticancer agent, doxazolidine (doxaz), is developed. Doxaz is a DNA alkylating agent with a half‐life of 3 min and significantly higher cytotoxicity than the clinically used parental compound doxorubicin (dox). Importantly, doxaz is not affected by p‐glycoprotein expression since it irreversibly alkylates DNA while dox inhibits the topoisomerase II DNA complex. As drug activators, reactive oxygen species (ROS) are already produced inside cancer cells in higher abundance than in normal cells but additionally generated by external stimuli such as radionuclides (via radiolysis of water) and/or ROS‐inducing drugs. We synthesized the prodrug, Doxaz‐BA, and evaluated its efficacy in vitro in cell cultures and then in vivo in xenograft mouse models. Doxaz‐BA is effective in a broad range of cancer cells since most cancer cells produce higher levels of ROS. Combining with clinically relevant radiotracers such as 18F‐FDG or other tumor‐tropic agents / ROS inducing drugs results in a tumor‐specific and enhanced localized therapy paradigm.
Unleashing the Power of Cold Atmospheric Plasma: Inducing Mitochondria Damage‐Mediated Mitotic Catastrophe
Authors: Peng Shengjie , Feng Yue , Yu K.N. , Wu Lijun , Chen Guodong , Yang Miaomiao , Zhao Lele , Cao Wei , Cui Qianwen , Chen Lianjun , Li Quan , Huang Yifan , Cheng Cheng , Zhu Fengqin , Han Wei
Published: October 2024

Despite the promise of cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) for cancer treatment, the challenges associated with the treatment of solid tumors and penetration depth limitations remain, restricting its clinical application. Here, biological evidence is provided that the killing effect of CAP treatment is confined to less than 500 µm subcutaneously and the actual biological dose decreased gradually with depth for the first time, indicating that the limited penetration depth has become an urgent problem that demands immediate solutions. Significantly, it is showed that different from high‐dose treatments, CAP decreased the doses to the low‐dose range but still exhibited anti‐tumor effects via mitotic catastrophe. Unlike radiotherapy or chemotherapy, low‐dose CAP treatment induces mitochondrial structural damage and dysfunction, disrupts energy metabolism and redox balance, and results in mitotic catastrophe. Collectively, these findings suggest that better understanding and taking full advantage of the dose‐response gradient effect of CAP is a potential strategy to prompt its clinical application beyond improving CAP penetration.
A Tympanic Piezo‐Bioreactor Modulates Ion Channel‐Associated Mechanosignaling to Stabilize Phenotype and Promote Tenogenesis in Human Tendon‐Derived Cells.
Authors: Fernandez‐Yague Marc A. , Palma Matteo , Tofail Syed A. M. , Duffy Maeve , Quinlan Leo R. , Dalby Mathew J. , Pandit Abhay , Biggs Manus J.
Published: October 2024

Preserving the function of human tendon‐derived cells (hTDCs) during cell expansion is a significant challenge in regenerative medicine. In this study, a non‐genetic approach is introduced to control the differentiation of hTDCs using a newly developed tympanic bioreactor. The system mimics the functionality of the human tympanic membrane, employing a piezoelectrically tuned acoustic diaphragm made of polyvinylidene fluoride‐co‐trifluoroethylene and boron nitride nanotubes. The diaphragm is vibrationally actuated to deliver targeted electromechanical stimulation to hTDCs. The results demonstrate that the system effectively maintains the tendon‐specific phenotype of hTDCs, even under conditions that typically induce nonspecific differentiation, such as osteogenesis. This stabilization is achieved by modulating integrin‐mediated mechanosignaling via ion channel‐regulated calcium activity, potentially by TREK‐1 and PIEZO1, yet targeted studies are required for confirmation. Finally, the system sustains the activation of key differentiation pathways (bone morphogenetic protein, BMP) while downregulating osteogenesis‐associated (mitogen‐ctivated protein kinase, MAPK and wingless integrated, WNT) pathways and upregulating Focal Adhesion Kinase (FAK) signaling. This approach offers a finely tunable, dose‐dependent control over hTDC differentiation, presenting significant potential for non‐genetic approaches in cell therapy, tendon tissue engineering, and the regeneration of other mechanosensitive tissues.
Ferroelectric Smectic C Liquid Crystal Phase with Spontaneous Polarization in the Direction of the Director
Authors: Kikuchi Hirotsugu , Nishikawa Hiroya , Matsukizono Hiroyuki , Iino Shunpei , Sugiyama Takeharu , Ishioka Toshio , Okumura Yasushi
Published: October 2024

In the previous study, the existence of an unidentified ferroelectric smectic phase is demonstrated in the low‐temperature region of the ferroelectric smectic A phase, where the layer spacing decreases with decreasing temperature. In the present study, the phase is identified by taking 2D X‐ray diffraction images of a magnetically oriented sample while allowing it to rotate and constructed a 3D reciprocal space with the sample rotation angle as the third axis for the whole picture of the reciprocal lattice vectors originating from the smectic structure. Consequently, circular diffraction images are obtained when the reciprocal lattice vectors are evenly distributed on the conical surface at a certain inclination angle in the reciprocal space. This result provides clear evidence that the phase in question is smectic C. The polarization properties also showed that the observed smectic C phase has spontaneous polarization in the direction parallel to the director and is identified as ferroelectric smectic C. These results provide a new type of classification for liquid crystalline phases that has been established over many years and is a significant contribution to the basic science of soft matter research.
Nitrous oxide emissions and yields from potato production systems as influenced by nitrogen fertilization and irrigation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ball Matt , Hernandez‐Ramirez Guillermo
Published: October 2024

Potato (Solanum tuberosom) is a globally significant crop in relation to the scale of its consumption, being the third most consumed worldwide. The overall sustainability of global agriculture is increasingly of concern, specifically in relation to increasing anthropogenic emissions of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from nitrogen fertilizer additions to croplands and its contribution to climate change. Against this backdrop, a meta‐analysis of 119 experimental comparisons from 18 studies—spanning 19 study sites in 10 countries—was employed to investigate the impact of irrigation, cumulative water input, N fertilizer application rate, soil pH, and soil texture on cumulative N2O fluxes and tuber yield in potato production. Compared to non‐fertilized controls, N2O emissions from fertilized potato production decreased by 34% when irrigation provided 61%–90% of total water input (corresponding to averages of 321–473 mm). Likewise, N2O emissions increased by 53% with 200–475 mm seasonal water input and by 37% with N fertilization rates of 101–200 kg N fertilizer ha−1. Furthermore, soil pH between 7.1 and 7.5 reduced emissions by 6%, while medium‐textured soils showed an increase of 2%. Conversely, tuber yields from fertilized potato production were comparatively maximized under 31%–60% of water input as irrigation (7%) and 751–1025 mm cumulative seasonal water input (28%). Alongside 201–300 kg N fertilizer ha−1 (97%), soil pH of 7.1–7.5 (48%), and in coarse‐textured soils (49%). Overall, these findings underscore the importance of considering irrigation and N fertilization options specifically in optimizing potato production for reduced N2O emissions and enhanced tuber yield.
Acid Sensors Based on Luminochromism of Solid‐State Excimer Emission of Pyrene‐Modified Polyhedral Oligomeric Silsesquioxane
Authors: Narikiyo Hayato , Gon Masayuki , Tanaka Kazuo , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: October 2024

To obtain solid‐state fluorescence sensors, it is essential to simultaneously obtain solid‐state emission and stimuli‐responsiveness. In this research, the modified polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane (POSS) tethered with pyrenes was synthesized and we confirmed that both demands for developing solid‐state fluorescence sensors can be satisfied. The POSS derivative exhibited strong emission even in the solid state. In particular, we found that exposure of the POSS films to trifluoroacetic acid vapor resulted in a significant red‐shift of the peak wavelength of the emission band. Excitation spectroscopy and comparison with model compounds suggest that this significant red‐shift should be attributable to the formation of static excimer, meaning a preformed dimer in the ground state induced by protonation of the secondary amino groups. These results indicate that POSS is a promising scaffold for a solid‐state fluorescence sensor.
The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative‐4 (ADNI‐4) Engagement Core: A culturally informed, community‐engaged research (CI‐CER) model to advance brain health equity
Authors: Rivera Mindt Mónica , Arentoft Alyssa , Calcetas Amanda T. , Guzman Vanessa A. , Amaza Hannatu , Ajayi Adeyinka , Ashford Miriam T. , Ayo Omobolanle , Barnes Lisa L. , Camuy Alicia , Conti Catherine , Diaz Adam , Easter Bashir , Gonzalez David J. , Dotson Yolanda Graham , Hoang Isabella , Germano Kaori Kubo , Maestre Gladys E. , Magaña Fabiola , Meyer Oanh L. , Miller Melanie J. , Nosheny Rachel , Park Van M. Ta , Parkins Shaniya , Thomas Lisa Renier , Strong Joe , Talavera Sandra , Verney Steven P. , Weisensel Trinity , Weiner Michael W. , Okonkwo Ozioma C. ,   the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative‐4 (ADNI‐4) Engagement Core was launched to advance Alzheimer's disease (AD) and AD‐related dementia (ADRD) health equity research in underrepresented populations (URPs). We describe our evidence‐based, scalable culturally informed, community‐engaged research (CI‐CER) model and demonstrate its preliminary success in increasing URP enrollment.

METHODS

URPs include ethnoculturally minoritized, lower education (≤ 12 years), and rural populations. The CI‐CER model includes: (1) culturally informed methodology (e.g., less restrictive inclusion/exclusion criteria, sociocultural measures, financial compensation, results disclosure, Spanish Language Capacity Workgroup) and (2) inclusive engagement methods (e.g., the Engagement Core team; Hub Sites; Community–Science Partnership Board).

RESULTS

As of April 2024, 60% of ADNI‐4 new in‐clinic enrollees were from ethnoculturally or educationally URPs. This exceeds ADNI‐4's ≥ 50% URP representation goal for new enrollees but may not represent final enrollment.

DISCUSSION

Findings show a CI‐CER model increases URP enrollment in AD/ADRD clinical research and has important implications for clinical trials to advance health equity.

Highlights

The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative‐4 (ADNI‐4) uses a culturally informed, community‐engaged research (CI‐CER) approach.

The CI‐CER approach is scalable and sustainable for broad, multisite implementation.

ADNI‐4 is currently exceeding its inclusion goals for underrepresented populations.
Enrichment for clinical trials of early AD: Combining genetic risk factors and plasma p‐tau as screening instruments
Authors: Wang Xin , Wang Xinran , Edland Steven D. , Broce Iris J. , Dale Anders M. , Banks Sarah J. ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

Identifying low‐cost, minimally‐invasive screening instruments for Alzheimer's disease (AD) trial enrichment will improve the efficiency of AD trials.

METHODS

A total of 685 cognitively normal (CN) individuals and individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) were grouped according to cutoffs of genetic risk factor (G) polygenic hazard score (PHS) and tau pathology (T) plasma phosphorylated tau‐181 (p‐tau181) into four groups: G+T+, G‐T‐, G+T‐, and G‐T+. We assessed the associations between group level and longitudinal cognitive decline and AD conversion. Power analyses compared the estimated sample size required to detect differences in cognitive decline.

RESULTS

The G+T+ group was associated with faster cognitive decline and higher AD risk. Clinical trials enrolling G+T+ participants would benefit from significantly reduced sample sizes compared with similar trials using only single makers as an inclusion criterion.

DISCUSSION

The combination of two low‐cost, minimally‐invasive measures—genetics and plasma biomarkers—would be a promising screening procedure for clinical trial enrollment.

Highlights

Participants with unimpaired or mildly impaired cognition were grouped based on cutoffs on genetic risk factors (G: polygenic hazardous score [PHS]) and Alzheimer's pathology (T: baseline plasma phosphorylated tau‐181 [p‐tau181]).

Participants with high PHSs and plasma p‐tau181 levels (G+T+) were at risk of faster cognitive decline and AD progression.

The combination of PHS and plasma p‐tau181 could enhance clinical trial enrichment more effectively than using single biomarkers.
Reductions in the white–gray functional connectome in preclinical Alzheimer's disease and their associations with amyloid and cognition
Authors: Xu Lyuan , Zhao Yu , Choi Soyoung , Li Muwei , Schilling Kurt G. , Zu Zhongliang , Rogers Baxter P. , Ding Zhaohua , Anderson Adam W. , Landman Bennett A. , Gore John C. , Gao Yurui ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

The magnitudes and patterns of alterations of the white–gray matter (WM–GM) functional connectome in preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD), and their associations with amyloid and cognition, remain unclear.

METHODS

We compared regional WM–GM functional connectivity (FC) and network properties in subjects with preclinical AD (or AD dementia) and controls (total n = 344). Their associations with positron emission tomography AV45‐measured amyloid beta (Aβ) load and modified Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (mPACC) scores were examined.

RESULTS

Preclinical AD subjects showed lower FC in specific WM–GM pairs and reduced segregation of control, dorsal attention, and somatomotor networks. A major portion of the reduced FC and network segregations were linked to elevated Aβ. Reduced FC of one WM–GM pair correlated with impaired mPACC. AD dementia exhibited broader reductions and stronger associations.

DISCUSSION

The WM–GM functional connectome undergoes regional and systemic dysfunctions as early as in the preclinical stage, correlating with amyloid deposition and predicting cognitive impairment.

Highlights

Preclinical Alzheimer's disease (AD) subjects showed lower functional connectivity in specific white‐gray matter (WM–GM) pairs and reduced segregations of control, dorsal attention, and somatomotor networks.

A major portion of the reduced connectivity and network segregations were linked to elevated amyloid beta load.

Only one WM–GM pair's reduced connectivity was linearly correlated with impaired cognitive composite scores.

AD dementia showed more extensive reductions in connectivity, network integration, and segregation, with stronger associations with amyloid elevation and cognitive impairment.

The WM–GM functional connectome offers a distinct perspective for understanding changes in brain functional architecture throughout the AD continuum.
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation elicits weight loss and improved insulin sensitivity in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Chen Xuanjin , Wang Ruru , Wang Xin , Liu Ming , Liu Zhipeng , Yin Tao , Li Chen
Published: October 2024

Background

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) accounts for the majority of diabetes incidences and remains a widespread global chronic disorder. Apart from early lifestyle changes, intervention options for T2D are mainly pharmaceutical.

Methods

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has been approved by the FDA as a therapeutic intervention option for major depressive disorders, with further studies also indicating its role in energy metabolism and appetite. Considering its safe and non‐invasive properties, we evaluated the effects of rTMS on systemic metabolism using T2D rats.

Results

We observed that rTMS improved glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in T2D rats after a 10‐day exposure. Improved systemic insulin sensitivity was maintained after a 21‐day treatment period, accompanied by modest yet significant weight loss. Circulating serum lipid levels, including those of cholesteryl ester, tryglyceride and ceramides, were also reduced following rTMS application. RNA‐seq analyses further revealed a changed expression profile of hepatic genes that are related to sterol production and fatty acid metabolism. Altered expression of hypothalamic genes that are related to appetite regulation, neural activity and ether lipid metabolism were also implicated.

Conclusion

In summary, our data report a positive impact of rTMS on systemic insulin sensitivity and weight management of T2D rats. The underlying mechanisms via which rTMS regulates systemic metabolic parameters partially involve lipid utilization in the periphery as well as central regulation of energy intake and lipid metabolism.
Nahezu unendlich lange Polymere mit Ge=Ge‐Doppelbindungen
Authors: Thömmes Anna‐Lena , Büttner Thomas , Morgenstern Bernd , Janka Oliver , Kickelbick Guido , Niebuur Bart‐Jan , Kraus Tobias , Gallei Markus , Scheschkewitz David
Published: October 2024

Trotz erheblichen Interesses an heteroatomhaltigen konjugierten Polymeren sind Beispiele mit schwereren Elementen des p‐Blocks im Konjugationspfad rar. Die kürzlich beschriebene Metathese schwererer acyclischer Diene (HADMET) ermöglichte die Synthese eines Ge=Ge‐Doppelbindungen enthaltenden Polymers, wenn auch eines unlöslichen mit begrenztem Polymerisationsgrad. Durch Einführung langer Alkylketten erhielten wir nun lösliche Vertreter mit – nach diffusionsabhängiger NMR‐Spektroskopie (DOSY) und dynamischer Lichtstreuung (DLS) – nahezu unendlichen Polymerisationsgraden. UV/Vis und NMR‐Daten bestätigen das Vorliegen von σ,π‐Konjugation entlang der Silylen‐Phenylen‐Verknüpfungen zwischen den Ge=Ge‐Einheiten. Günstige intermolekulare Dispersionswechselwirkungen führen zu leiterartigen, zylindrischen Aggregaten, wie durch Röntgendiffraktometrie (XRD), Kleinwinkel‐Röntgenstreuung (SAXS) und DLS bestätigt. AFM‐ und TEM‐Bilder abgeschiedener dünner Schichten offenbaren eine lamellare Anordnung ausgedehnter Polymerbündel.
Asymmetric Synthesis of β‐Ketoamides by Sulfonium Rearrangement
Authors: Porte Vincent , Nascimento Vinicius R. , Sirvent Ana , Tiefenbrunner Irmgard , Feng Minghao , Kaiser Daniel , Maulide Nuno
Published: October 2024

The synthesis of enantioenriched α‐substituted 1,3‐dicarbonyls remains a contemporary challenge in synthesis due to their tendency to undergo racemization via keto‐enol tautomerization. Herein, we report a method to access enantioenriched β‐ketoamides by a chiral sulfinimine‐mediated [3,3]‐sigmatropic sulfonium rearrangement. The transformation displays good chirality transfer, as well as excellent chemoselectivity and functional group tolerance. Diastereoselective reduction of the ketone moiety, also achievable in one‐pot fashion, affords enantioenriched β‐hydroxyamides.
Pilot study on coke oven flue gas injection desulfurization using highly active modified calcium hydroxide desulfurizer
Authors: Liu Meng , Ding Wenxi , Chang Jingyang , Wan Jun , Liu Wei , Duan Yufeng
Published: October 2024

Calcium hydroxide injection desulfurization has attracted extensive attention because of its low cost and recyclable characteristics. The modified calcium hydroxide was prepared on the basis of the digestion of calcium lignosulfonate (wood calcium) aqueous solution with ethanol and used in the pilot test of flue gas injection desulfurization of the coke oven. The injection desulfurization experiment was carried out with calcium hydroxide modified by 50% ethanol and 20% ethanol+0.5% wood calcium. It was found that the injection desulfurization efficiency of the two modified calcium hydroxide was better than that of the unmodified calcium hydroxide under the same injection conditions. The desulfurization efficiency of 20% ethanol+0.5% calcium hydroxide modified by wood calcium can reach more than 93.7% under the condition of 2 and 5 times calcium to sulfur ratio. The XRF analysis of desulfurization product showed that the content of S element in unreturned desulfurization ash was only 1.28%, which increased to 4.46% after 5 times of return. BET results showed that the specific surface area of the returned desulfurization ash decreased from 35.115m2/g to 10.256m2/g and the pore volume decreased from 0.103cm3/g to 0.0433cm3/g.
Electrochemical synthesis, physical properties and corrosion behavior of electropolymerized polyaniline films developed on 316L stainless steel
Authors: de Carvalho Filho Carlos T. , Bastos Gustavo V. , de Vasconcelos Cláudia K. B. , Brito Pedro P.
Published: October 2024

Polyaniline (PANI) films may be developed on metallic substrates by a variety of electrochemical techniques. In the present work, PANI films were electrodeposited on AISI 316L stainless steel substrates by cyclic voltammetry (CV), chronoamperometry (CA), and chronopotentiometry (CP) with the objective of comparing the efficacy of each method, based on the integrity of the developed films. Cyclic voltammetry and anodic polarization were used to determine optimal electrodeposition parameters for the development PANI films using the CA and CP methods. The structure and morphology of the coatings were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Among the evaluated techniques, CV led to the formation PANI films with the best homogeneity as well as the lowest number of defects, such as cracks or pores. Subsequently, the corrosion resistance of AISI 316L steels with and without PANI was compared in a physiological saline solution (0.9% NaCl). Potentiodynamic polarization tests indicated that the PANI‐coated samples exhibited lower corrosion current density values (0.012 vs. 0.018 μA/cm2) and lower passive current density values (0.04 vs. 0.06 μA/cm2) in comparison to the bare AISI 316L steel. Additionally, long‐term monitoring by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy revealed that PANI films consistently exhibited superior polarization resistance up to 32 days of exposure in the 0.9%NaCl solution (233,000 vs. 207,000 Ωcm2).
Effect of particle size on dissolution of different chemical components in Codonopsis pilosula
Authors: Huang Shuteng , Deng Hanxiu , Zhao Xue , Zhang Ruyue , Zhang Zhonglei , Li Ning , Zhang Jiayu
Published: October 2024

Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. is a traditional herb for treating immunosuppression. C. pilosula boiling powder (CP‐BP) contains particles of a small size made from C. pilosula decoction pieces (CP‐DP). It is still unclear how changes in particle size during the decoction process affect the dissolution of various chemical components in C. pilosula. Herein, an ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole‐Exactive Orbitrap mass spectrometry technique was established to characterize the components of CP‐BP and CP‐DP decoctions. The contents of the components were evaluated based on the relative peak area, extract yield, and alcohol solubility rate. A total of 71 compounds were finally identified, and their content in the CP‐BP decoction was generally higher than that in the CP‐DP decoction. Alkaloids had the highest average content, whereas terpenoids were the most affected by changes in particle size. In addition, immunosuppression was used as model to investigate whether these changes have practical significance. The results of network pharmacology suggested that the phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K)–Akt pathway may be a potential pathway of C. pilosula for treating immunosuppression. The results of molecular docking indicated that compounds with large content variations have good docking affinity with key targets (epidermal growth factor receptor [EGFR], prostaglandin‐endoperoxide synthase 2 [PTGS2], and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor gamma [PPARG]). These results provide an important reference for further development and use of C. pilosula.
Novel Anti‐Tumor Effect of Natural Products from Aloe vera Resin and their In‐Vitro/In‐Silico Targeting Mechanism of Carbonic Anhydrase‐II and IX
Authors: Khan Majid , Ahsan Halim Sobia , Ur Rehman Najeeb , Khan Ajmal , Gibbons Simon , Csuk Rene , Uddin Jalal , Al‐Harrasi Ahmed
Published: October 2024

Human carbonic anhydrase (hCA) plays a vital role in the development and progression of tumors in hypoxic conditions. Herein we report the hCA‐II and hCA‐IX activities of natural products isolated from Aloe vera (L.) Burm.f., to know their potential in tumors. These isolated compounds (1–10) displayed varying degrees of inhibition against hCA‐II and hCA‐IX. All the compounds showed potent activity against hCA‐IX with IC50 values in the range of 2.9–29.1 μM. While for hCA‐II, compounds 1, 2, 5–10 exhibited IC50 in the range of 4.7–23.4 μM. The most effective hCA IX and II inhibitors, 2 and 5, were chosen for in vitro mechanism studies, revealing that they are competitive inhibitors. Furthermore, when tested for their cytotoxic effect on BJ (normal) cell line, all the compounds showed no cytotoxic behavior, while on Prostate cancer cells (PC‐3), compounds 1, 3, 5, 7, and 9 exhibited significant antiproliferative activity. Molecular docking was also conducted within the hCA IX and hCA‐II active sites to observe their binding capability. Compounds 1, 5, 7, and 9 were active against both isozymes of hCA and in the PC‐3 cell line, therefore these are the best choices for further in vivo studies.
A New Diterpenoid Alkaloid with Antimicrobial Activity from Aconitum brachypodum Diels
Authors: Shu Yan , Yao Shu , Luo Yan , Yang Hua‐Juan , Wang Jia‐Peng , Cai Le
Published: October 2024

A new C20‐denudatine‐type diterpenoid alkaloid (DA) 11S‐aconicarnine D (1) and fifteen known DAs were isolated from the lateral roots of Aconitum brachypodum Diels. Their structures were identified on the basis of extensive spectroscopic analyses, NMR calculations and DP4+ analysis. Compounds 1 and 4 exhibited antimicrobial activity against Alternaria panax with MICs of 2.00 and 8.00 μg/mL (Nystatin, 1.00 μg/mL), respectively.
Intrathecal pain pump causing delayed acute flaccid paralysis: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Finneran Megan , Nardone Emilio
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Patients with intrathecal catheters for pain medication infusion should be aware of the possible complication of acute flaccid paralysis. While exceedingly rare, it should prompt immediate medical attention to rule out compressive pathology requiring intervention.
Nonlinear Frequency Response Analysis of Distributed Parameter Systems with One Spatial Coordinate
Authors: Živković Luka , Petkovska Menka
Published: October 2024

The objective of this paper is to investigate possible strategies for applying nonlinear frequency response (NFR) analysis based on the concept of higher‐order frequency response functions to distributed parameter systems. Three approaches are presented and compared: one based on applying the existing procedure directly to the partial differential model, and two based on approximation of the distributed parameter system with a series of lumped parameter segments. One of them treats the complete series of segments integrally, while the other treats it segment by segment, so it uses only the model of a single segment. A simple example, an isothermal plug‐flow reactor with a simple reaction mechanism, is used as a case study. Pros and cons for all three approaches are given.
The Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Mental Health and Cognitive Function in Patients With Cancer: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Almeida Sílvia , Frasquilho Diana , Cordeiro M. Teresa , Neto Teresa , Sousa Berta , Cardoso Fátima , Oliveira‐Maia Albino J.
Published: October 2024

Background

The COVID‐19 pandeminc has had widespread impacts, but its specific effects on mental health and cognitive function in patients with cancer remain under‐explored.

Recent Findings

Data from the general population has suggested that mental health problems were frequent during the pandemic, namely during the initial stage of the outbreak. For patients with cancer, a systematic review and meta‐analysis of data published until January 2021 also showed elevated prevalence of depression and anxiety, and suggested that anxiety was more frequent than in health workers and healthy controls.

Objective

This systematic review aimed to synthesize existing evidence on the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on mental health and cognitive function in patients with cancer.

Methods

Studies were identified through systematic search of three electronic bibliographic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, and EBSCOHOST) with adapted search strings. We included only peer‐reviewed, nonqualitative, original research papers, published between 2019 and 2022, and reporting on mental health and/or cognition outcomes during the COVID‐19 pandemic in adult patients with cancer.

Results

Of 3260 papers identified, 121 full text articles were retrieved and 71 met inclusion criteria. We found that patients with cancer reported high levels of psychological distress, anxiety and depression, as well as cognitive complaints during the pandemic. However, studies were not consistent in identifying these symptoms as effects of the pandemic specific for this population. In fact, longitudinal studies did not find consistent differences between pre‐ and post‐pandemic periods and, globally, patients with cancer did not report increased severity of these mental health symptoms in relation to the general population.

Conclusion

Overall, while the COVID‐19 pandemic may have raised mental health challenges for patients with cancer, the diagnosis of cancer and associated treatments seemed to remain the main source of concern for these patients.
Bioequivalence and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation of Regorafenib Tablets in Healthy Chinese Volunteers
Authors: Wang Zhaoyu , Zhang Yun , Liu Jingjing , Chen Xijing
Published: October 2024

This was a single‐center, randomized, open‐label, 2‐formulation, and 2‐cycle crossover trial conducted in 48 healthy Chinese volunteers, under fasting and fed conditions. The participants received oral doses of the test formulation (regorafenib) and reference formulation (40 mg) during each study period. Blood samples were collected before and up to 144 hours after the formulations were administered to determine changes in the pharmacokinetic parameters and adverse reactions, which were then used to evaluate bioequivalence and safety. The geometric mean ratios of maximum blood concentration, area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to the last quantifiable concentration, and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve from time 0 to infinity for regorafenib were as follows: 94.7%, 91.4%, and 91.7%, respectively, under fasting conditions; and 94.6%, 97.7%, and 98.8%, respectively, under fed conditions. The 90% confidence intervals for the geometric mean ratios were within the 80%‐125% equivalence interval for both the fasting and fed tests. Ingesting high‐fat and high‐calorie foods increases exposure to regorafenib, leading to slower rates of absorption. The safety profiles of the 2 preparations were similar.
Relationship Between the Feeling of Emptiness and Suicide Reattempt: Conclusions From Cross‐Sectional and Longitudinal Analyses
Authors: Pemau Andres , Marin‐Martin Carolina , de la Torre‐Luque Alejandro , Ayad‐Ahmed Wala , Lopez‐Villatoro Jose Manuel , Fernandez‐Rodrigues Veronica , Mola Pablo , Carrasco Jose Luis , Diaz‐Marsa Marina
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The feeling of emptiness is a complex subjective experience considered relevant in the suicidal process, acting as a risk factor for suicide ideation, attempts and even reattempts. However, empirical studies are still scarce.

Objectives

This study has three objectives: to compare emptiness levels in healthy people and those with suicide attempts; to compare the emptiness level between people with a single suicide attempt and multiple suicide attempts at baseline; and to study emptiness as a risk factor for the appearance of new suicidal attempts after an index one.

Methodology

In the study, 382 healthy controls and 58 participants with a recent suicide attempt (in the past 15 days) participated. All completed the feeling of emptiness scale (FES). Information was also collected on sociodemographic characteristics and history of suicide attempts. First, the control sample scores were compared with those of the clinical sample. Later, the single attempt and reattempt groups (any amount greater than one attempt at baseline) were compared. Finally, the clinical sample was followed for 1 year and 3 months (through clinical records). Survival analysis was performed.

Results

The clinical group obtained higher scores across the FES subscales, even when controlling for other relevant variables (p < 0.01). When comparing people with one versus several attempts, differences were also observed in all subscales except one, the reattempt group getting higher scores (p < 0.05). Regarding the survival analysis, the feeling of emptiness was significantly associated with the risk of reattempt (HR = 1.04; p < 0.05). All people who reattempted during follow‐up belonged to the reattempt group at baseline.

Conclusions

People who have attempted suicide present higher emptiness scores. Furthermore, emptiness appears to significantly predict the occurrence of new attempts at follow‐up. The feeling of emptiness may be associated with the lack of vital meaning and disconnection from others, fundamental aspects of the ideation‐to‐action suicide models. Including emptiness in suicide assessments could increase clinicians' predictive ability.