bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laboratory Automation in Clinical Microbiology
Authors: McElvania Erin , Doern Christopher D. , Culbreath Karissa
Published: December 2024

The practice of clinical microbiology has been revolutionized by technological innovations such as the advent of molecular diagnostics and polymerase chain reaction, matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight mass spectrometry, and most recently laboratory automation. This chapter focuses on the automation of culture‐based bacteriology. It discusses the various components of culture‐based automation along with some important considerations for those looking to adopt automation in their microbiology laboratory, such as how to select the right system, change management, and system validation. The chapter also includes some details of each system for the purposes of facilitating a capability comparison. The automation of microbiological specimen processing improves the quality of plate streaking, avoids cross‐contamination, alleviates ergonomic issues, and reduces processing time and costs. Total laboratory automation will likely become commonplace in high‐volume laboratories and may eventually be found in smaller laboratories.
Aerococcus
, Abiotrophia, and Other Aerobic Catalase‐Negative, Gram‐Positive Cocci
Authors: Nielsen Xiaohui Chen , Christensen Jens Jørgen
Published: December 2024

The catalase‐negative, Gram‐positive cocci form a taxonomically diverse group of bacteria that are isolated infrequently as opportunistic agents of infection. Most of these organisms resemble other, better‐known clinical isolates and consequently may be mistaken for members of those genera. Some strains of
Aerococcus
may exhibit weakly positive catalase reactions due to nonheme catalase activity. Organisms in the genera
Abiotrophia
and
Granulicatella
are normal residents of the oral cavity and are recognized as agents of endocarditis involving both native and prosthetic valves.
Pediococcus
strains have been isolated from bacteremia and cases of sepsis and hepatic abscess in compromised patients.
Vagococci
are motile organisms that, like lactococci, express Lancefield group N antigen.
Weissella
strains are usually isolated in polymicrobial infections. Antimicrobial susceptibility studies on the organisms have generally employed dilution testing methods.
Nocardia, Rhodococcus, Gordonia, Actinomadura, Streptomyces, and Other Aerobic Actinomycetes
Authors: Brown‐Elliott Barbara A. , Zelazny Adrian M. , Conville Patricia S.
Published: December 2024

The anaerobic organisms now in the genus
Actinomyces
and the aerobic organisms grouped together as the “aerobic actinomycetes” were previously presumed to be related to one another on the basis of shared features of microscopic and colonial morphology. The microscopic and colonial morphologies of organisms in the genus
Actinomadura
, which contains more than 100 validly named species or subspecies, are very similar to those in the genus
Streptomyces
. Species in the genus
Saccharopolyspora
were initially thought to be related to
Nocardia
and
Streptomyces
by biochemical characteristics but are phylogenetically distinct from those genera. However, an unknown number of
Gordonia
infections may be missed, either because the isolate is considered an insignificant coryneform Gram‐positive rod or because the isolate is misidentified by biochemical methods as belonging to another genus, such as
Nocardia
or
Rhodococcus
.
NASADAD hires Michael Langer as senior advisor
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: December 2024

Michael Langer, former SSA for Substance Use and Mental Health in the State of Washington, has joined the NASADAD as a Senior Advisor and Membership Services Liaison. Langer, who served as SSA for Washington State from 1986 until he retired earlier this year, has been actively involved with NASADAD for almost 30 years. In his role as SSA, he served in leadership positions on the NASADAD Board of Directors. He further contributed to the association by serving within the Network Prevention Network (NPN) and the National Treatment Network (NTN). Langer will be a part‐time staffer at NASADAD, where he will use his experience to enhance the organization's capacity to serve members. He will also be advising NASADAD senior leaders and staff on federally funded projects designed to support NASADAD membership.
Shape Synergy of Ag@Cu Chip Packaging Nano‐Paste and Its Sintering Reliability
Authors: Yin Changhao , Guo Wei , Zhao Wenyi , Zhang Cheng , Peng Zilong , Zou Guisheng , Jia Qiang , Zhang Hongqiang
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical migration of Ag can result in failure of power chips, thus affecting the application of nano‐Ag paste as packaging material. In this study, a novel sintered material is developed using shape‐synergistic Ag‐coated Cu (Ag@Cu) particles, aiming at establishing a highly reliable connection between the chips and the substrates. The sintering behavior of Ag@Cu particles is examined, elucidating the role of skeleton‐wetting synergism in enhancing the strength of the sintered layer from a structural perspective. Two distinct shapes of Ag@Cu particles serve as a skeleton support, providing electrical conductivity, and nano‐Ag particles enhance wettability. Ag as a coating layer can slow down the oxidation of Cu, despite that oxidation still occurs in the sintered layer during the high‐temperature tests, initially weakening the strength of the sintered layer, but eventually stabilization is achieved. The presence of Cu effectively inhibits electrochemical migration of Ag. The reliability of the sintered layer is enhanced by the novel shape of Ag@Cu particles and the interaction between Ag and Cu, thereby ensuring the stability of the power chips.
Revealing the γ′ and γ″ Phase Fractions of Additively Manufactured and Differently Heat‐Treated Nickel‐Base Superalloy IN718 by Atom Probe Tomography and Their Impact on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Volpato Guilherme Maziero , Vollhüter Jan , Diepold Benedikt , Meier Martin Sebastian , Pröbstle Martin , Göken Mathias , Niendorf Thomas , Felfer Peter , Neumeier Steffen
Published: December 2024

Powder bed fusion using a laser beam (PBF‐LB) has great potential for the production of geometrically complex industrial components, allowing for unprecedented geometrical optimization and freedom of design. This potential is particularly relevant in the case of turbine components, whose microstructure and properties are directly affected by the extreme PBF‐LB processing conditions. In this context, this study aims to investigate the impact of PBF‐LB on the microstructure and mechanical behavior of Inconel alloy 718 (IN718) when heat treated according to different sequences. Atom probe tomography is used to analyze the composition, morphology, configuration, and volume fraction of γ′ and γ″ precipitates as a function of heat treatment conditions. Their impact on the material is evaluated using compression tests under different build orientations. It is shown that when PBF‐LB IN718 is subject to solution annealing at 930 °C and subsequently aged, δ needles form in its microstructure at the expense of γ′ and γ″, thus reducing mechanical strength. Such is not the case when the solution annealing step is omitted or when its temperature is increased to 1000 °C, conditions whose superior mechanical behavior have been attributed to a high dislocation density and a large volume fraction of aging phases, respectively.
Electroadhesive Clutches with Enhanced Force Capacity Using Soft Dielectric Interfaces
Authors: Levine David J. , Turner Kevin T. , Pikul James Henry
Published: December 2024

Electroadhesive clutches with stiff dielectric films provide unique potential for programming stiffness and adhesion, but their low force capacities per unit area limit their applications. Reversible adhesives based on van der Waals forces leverage soft contact surfaces to achieve conformal contact and high adhesion, but such soft surfaces are challenging to use in electroadhesives as they add latent adhesion that reduces switchability. Herein, soft, elastomeric dielectrics that combine electrostatics and surface force‐mediated adhesion are used to build electroadhesive clutches with high force capacity per unit contact area and voltage. Analytical models from fracture mechanics explain how clutch compliance, shape, and surface roughness affect force capacity and switchability. These models are used to design electroadhesives with soft dielectric films that achieve force capacities similar to those of state‐of‐the‐art clutches with stiff dielectrics in terms of force capacity per unit area (22 N cm−2), but with simple dielectric materials with one‐fifteenth of the relative permittivity. In addition, controlled surface roughness is used to increase the switchability of any given electroadhesive clutch design. Finally, the ability of soft dielectric clutches is demonstrated to enable programmable stiffness in reconfigurable robotic fabrics, structural elements, and robotic fingers.
Peptide‐Induced Hydrogelation with Ordered Metal‐Organic Framework Nanoparticles Generating Reactive Oxygen Species for Integrated Wound Repair
Authors: Li Ping , Li Yiying , Yao Jiahui , Li Li‐Li
Published: December 2024

Hydrogels, with their high water content and flexible nature, are a promising class of medical dressings for combating bacterial wound infections. However, their development has been hindered by low sterilization efficiency. Here, this issue is addressed by designing a peptide hydrogel that assembles ordered metal‐organic framework (MOF) nanoparticles with photocatalytic bactericidal activity. Specifically, a short peptide, Nap‐Gly‐Phe‐Phe‐His (Nap‐GFFH), is used to induce the assembly of zinc‐imidazolate MOF (ZIF‐8) into a hydrogel (NHZ gel). This innovative structure integrates three key features: 1) ZIF‐8 nanoparticles are encapsulated within the hydrogel, overcoming their inherent brittleness, insolubility, and limited moldability; 2) the ordered ZIF‐8 structure enhances charge transfer, enabling efficient generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS); and 3) ZIF‐8 simultaneously improves the photocatalytic bactericidal efficiency and mechanical properties of the hydrogel. The NHZ gel demonstrates remarkable antibacterial performance, achieving >99.9% and 99.99% inactivation of Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, respectively, within 15 min of simulated solar radiation. Additionally, the NHZ gel exhibits excellent biocompatibility, water retention, and exudate absorption, highlighting its broad potential for wound healing.
Regioselective Cobalt‐Catalyzed Protoboration of Alkynes
Authors: Hwang Ho Seong , Cho Eun Jin
Published: December 2024

A regioselective cobalt‐catalyzed protoboration of alkynes has been developed, utilizing diboron as the borylation source for the efficient synthesis of alkenylborates. The reaction proceeds via cobalt‐boryl intermediates, diverging from conventional Co−H chemistry. By fine‐tuning the phosphine ligand side chains, we achieved excellent reactivity and regioselectivity across a wide range of internal and terminal alkynes. This Co‐catalyzed method offers significant advantages in terms of both efficiency and environmental impact, making it an attractive approach for the synthesis of complex organic molecules.
Regiospecific Alkene Oxyamination via N‐Alkylation‐ Hydroxylation‐Transesterification Cascades
Authors: Zhang Hong‐Xia , Kou Li‐Gang , Gao Ya‐Ru , Jia Qiong , Wang Yong‐Qiang
Published: December 2024

An unprecedented cascade reaction of simple inactive alkenes, azo compounds and H2O to produce valuable poly‐substituted oxazolidinones is reported herein. The transformation possesses exclusive regioselectivity and features mild reaction conditions and a broad substrate scope. Mechanistic studies indicated this transformation underwent a N‐alkylation‐hydroxylation‐transesterification cascade process. This research not only pushes the boundaries of the essential difunctionalization of alkenes but also exploits a new chemistry for azo compounds.
Targeted SPP1 Inhibition of Tumor‐Associated Myeloid Cells Effectively Decreases Tumor Sizes
Authors: Kartal Benan , Garris Christopher S. , Kim Hyung Shik , Kohler Rainer H. , Carrothers Jasmine , Halabi Elias A. , Iwamoto Yoshiko , Goubet Anne‐Gaëlle , Xie Yuxuan , Wirapati Pratyaksha , Pittet Mikaël J. , Weissleder Ralph
Published: December 2024

Secreted phosphosprotein 1 (SPP1)High tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM) are abundant tumor myeloid cells that are immunosuppressive, pro‐tumorigenic, and have a highly negative prognostic factor. Despite this, there is a lack of efficient TAM‐specific therapeutics capable of reducing SPP1 expression. Here, on a phenotypic screen is reported to identify small molecule SPP1 modulators in macrophages. Several hits and incorporated them into a TAM‐avid systemic nanoformulation are identified. It is shown that the lead compound (CANDI460) can down‐regulate SPP1 in vitro and in vivo and lead to tumor remissions in different murine models. These findings are important as they offer a promising avenue for developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting TAM.
A Body‐Temperature‐Triggered In Situ Softening Peripheral Nerve Electrode for Chronic Robust Neuromodulation
Authors: Ren Xueyang , Tang Wenjie , Yuan Yuehui , Chen Shisheng , Lu Fangzhou , Mao Jinyang , Fan Jidan , Wei Xufeng , Chu Ming , Hu Benhui
Published: December 2024

Implantable peripheral nerve electrodes are crucial for monitoring health and alleviating symptoms of chronic diseases. Advanced compliant electrodes have been developed because of their biomechanical compatibility. However, these mechanically tissue‐like electrodes suffer from unmanageable operating forces, leading to high risks of nerve injury and fragile electrode‐tissue interfaces. Here, a peripheral nerve electrode is developed that simultaneously fulfills the criteria of body temperature softening and tissue‐like modulus (less than 0.8 MPa at 37 °C) after implantation. The central core is altered from the tri‐arm crosslinker to the star‐branched monomer to kill two birds (close the translation temperature to 37 °C and decrease the modulus after implantation) with one stone. Furthermore, the decreased interfacial impedance (325.1 ± 46.9 Ω at 1 kHz) and increased charge storage capacity (111.2 ± 5.8 mC cm−2) are achieved by an in situ electrografted conductive polymer on the strain‐insensitive conductive network of Au nanotubes. The electrodes are readily wrapped around nerves and applied for long‐term stimulation in vivo with minimal inflammation. Neuromodulation experiments demonstrate their potential clinical utility, including vagus nerve stimulation in rats to suppress seizures and alleviation of cardiac remodeling in a canine model of myocardial infarction.
Bistable Soft Shells for Programmable Mechanical Logic
Authors: Yang Nan , Lan Yuming , Zhao Miao , Shi Xiaofei , Huang Kunpeng , Mao Zhongfa , Padovani Damiano
Published: December 2024

Mechanical computing promises to integrate semiconductor‐based digital logic in several applications, but it needs straightforward programmable devices for changing computing rules in situ. A methodology based on strain‐governed, bistable soft shells that process digital information by interchanging their internal/external surfaces is proposed. This bistable behavior, explained via model‐based design, safeguards robustness by working only once for each input pulse. Thus, these shells are leveraged to create a buffer and a NOT gate that lead to six fundamental gates (AND, OR, NAND, NOR, XOR, and XNOR). All these functions are integrated into a unique programmable device, making mechanically integrated circuits more adaptable with rule‐changeable logic operations. This design ensures continuous processes and general applicability to multiple types of signals (a pressurized fluid can replace mechanical driving signals is shown). It also empowers more complex logic functions suitable for expanded applications, such as the half and full adders is addressed.
Weakening origin of hydrogen bond in ionic liquid at the electrified interface
Authors: Lu Junfeng , Sun Tinglan , Lu Yumiao , He Hongyan , Wang Yanlei
Published: December 2024

Hydrogen bonds (HBs) widely exist in applications ranging from biology to electrochemistry, where quantifying HB at the electrochemical interface poses significant challenges. Herein, we propose an approach to quantitatively decouple the electrostatic and van der Waals interactions of HBs in ionic liquids (ILs) by injecting electrons into the electrode interface. The charging process showed that the order of obtaining electrons is molybdenum disulfide > graphene > IL > boron nitride. Interestingly, the preferentially charged cations would lead to a direct reduction of coulombic interactions in HBs; in contrast, the charged substrate would repel the anion and weaken HBs indirectly. Infrared (IR) spectrum and covalent change analysis verified the charging‐induced direct and indirect decoupling processes. Moreover, the energy analysis indicates that the electrostatic terms account for ~50% of HBs. These results on the weakening origin of HBs can guide the molecular design of ILs toward high‐performance electrochemical applications.
Association of ten VEGF family genes with Alzheimer's disease endophenotypes at single cell resolution
Authors: Wu Yiyang , Libby Julia B. , Dumitrescu Logan , De Jager Philip L. , Menon Vilas , Schneider Julie A. , Bennett David A. , Hohman Timothy J.
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

Using a single‐nucleus transcriptome derived from the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of 424 Religious Orders Study and the Rush Memory and Aging Project (ROS/MAP) participants, we investigated the cell type–specific effect of ten vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) genes on Alzheimer's disease (AD) endophenotypes.

METHODS

Negative binomial mixed models were used for differential gene expression and association analysis with AD endophenotypes. VEGF‐associated intercellular communication was also profiled.

RESULTS

Higher microglia FLT1, endothelial FLT4, and oligodendrocyte VEGFB are associated with greater amyloid beta (Aβ) load, whereas higher VEGFB expression in inhibitory neurons is associated with lower Aβ load. Higher astrocyte NRP1 is associated with lower tau density. Higher microglia and endothelial FLT1 are associated with worse cognition performance. Endothelial and microglial FLT1 expression was upregulated in clinical AD patients compared to cognitively normal controls. Finally, AD cells showed a significant reduction in VEGF signaling compared to controls.

DISCUSSION

Our results highlight key changes in VEGF receptor expression in endothelial and microglial cells during AD, and the potential protective role of VEGFB in neurons.

Highlights

The prefrontal cortical expression of FLT1 and FLT4 was associated with worse cross‐sectional global cognitive function, longitudinal cognitive trajectories, and more Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology.

The associations between FLT1 or FLT4 and AD endophenotypes appear to be driven by endothelial and microglial cells.

VEGFB expression seems to have opposing effects on the Aβ burden in AD depending on cell types, highlighting its potential protective role in neurons.
Influence of medical conditions on the diagnostic accuracy of plasma p‐tau217 and p‐tau217/Aβ42
Authors: Olvera‐Rojas Marcos , Sewell Kelsey R. , Karikari Thomas K. , Huang Haiqing , Oberlin Lauren E. , Zeng Xuemei , Morris Jill K. , Collins Audrey M. , Drake Jermon A. , Sutton Bradley P. , Kramer Arthur F. , Hillman Charles H. , Vidoni Eric D. , Burns Jeffrey M. , Kamboh M. Ilyas , McAuley Edward , Marsland Anna L. , Chen Yijun , Lafferty Tara K. , Sehrawat Anuradha , Jakicic John M. , Wan Lu , Kang Chaeryon , Erickson Kirk I.
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

Blood‐based biomarkers (BBMs) can enable early detection of brain amyloid beta (Aβ) pathology in cognitively unimpaired individuals. However, the extent to which common medical conditions affect biomarker performance remains unclear.

METHODS

Participants (n = 348) included individuals without cognitive impairment. We studied how brain Aβ associated with BBMs (Aβ42/40, phosphorylated tau [p‐tau] 181 and 217, p‐tau217/Aβ42, glial fibrillary acidic protein [GFAP], and neurofilament light [NfL]) and optimal BBM thresholds for predicting brain Aβ positivity and whether they are obscured by the presence of common medical conditions.

RESULTS

Plasma Aβ42/40, p‐tau181, p‐tau217, and GFAP, but not NfL, were significantly associated with brain Aβ. P‐tau217/Aβ42 showed the best discriminative performance (area under the curve: 0.91). The strength of p‐tau217–brain Aβ associations were obscured by diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.

DISCUSSION

These results suggest BBMs may help detect early Aβ pathology but suggest caution in their use due to common medical conditions that could affect accuracy.

Highlights

Plasma Aβ42/40, p‐tau181, p‐tau217, and GFAP but not NfL showed significant associations with brain Aβ.

BBMs were more strongly associated with the level of brain Aβ in those without diabetes and cardiovascular conditions.

P‐tau217/Aβ42 showed the best performance (AUC = 0.91) in discriminating Aβ presence with an optimal cut‐off of >1.2, followed by p‐tau217 at >0.46 pg/mL, with performance slightly improving when excluding participants with cardiovascular conditions.
Highly Efficient and Stable Perovskite Solar Cells by Introducing a Multifunctional Surface Modulator
Authors: Zhuang Rongshan , Wang Peng , Wang Linqin , Lai Qian , Qiu Junming , Chen Yinjuan , Zhang Xiaoliang , Sun Licheng , Hua Yong
Published: December 2024

Simultaneously passivating the perovskite surface defects and suppressing Li+ ions diffusion of hole transport layer (HTL) are still challenging issues. Herein, we report an effective “ three birds with one stone ” strategy by utilizing sodium 4,4′‐(1,4‐phenylenebis(oxy))bis(butane‐1‐sulfonate) (ZR3) containing sulfonic acid groups (SO3−) and Na+ ions as a multifunctional surface treatment modulator to simultaneously address the above issues. It is found that ZR3 is not only capable of passivating the Pb‐related defects at the surface of perovskite by the SO3− group, but also possesses the remarkable ability to passivate the halide defects with Na+ ions. Meanwhile, ZR3 treatment enables the enhanced exciton dissociation of perovskite, better energy level alignment with hole transport layer (HTL), improved hole extraction/transfer from perovskite layer into HTL, and reduced charge carrier recombination in device. Therefore, it results in the enhanced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 25.34 % in ZR3‐based n‐i‐p device from 22.97 % for the control device. Specifically, p‐i‐n PSCs with ZR3 also achieves an improved PCE of 25.96 % with respect to the pristine one (23.99 %), proving the universality of ZR3 for PSCs. Moreover, the stabilities of ZR3‐treated devices are significantly enhanced owing to Li+ ions migration suppressing and perovskite defects reduction.
Balancing Activity and Selectivity in Two‐Electron Oxygen Reduction through First Coordination Shell Engineering in Cobalt Single Atom Catalysts
Authors: Sun Kai , Lu Ruihu , Liu Yuge , Webb Joshua , Hanif Muhammad , Zhao Yufei , Wang Ziyun , Waterhouse Geoffrey I. N.
Published: December 2024

The electrochemical two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) offers a potentially cost‐effective and eco‐friendly route for the production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). However, the competing 4e− ORR that converts oxygen to water limits the selectivity towards hydrogen peroxide. Accordingly, achieving highly selective H2O2 production under low voltage conditions remains challenging. Herein, guided by first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we show that modulation the first coordination sphere in Co single atom catalysts (Co−N−C catalysts with Co‐NxO4‐x sites), specifically the replacement of Co−N bonds with Co−O bonds, can weaken the *OOH adsorption strength to boost the selectivity towards H2O2 (albeit with a slight decrease in ORR activity). Further, by synthesizing a series of N‐doped carbon‐supported catalysts with Co‐NxO4‐x active sites, we were able to validate the DFT findings and explore the trade‐off between catalytic activity and selectivity for 2e− ORR. A catalyst with trans‐Co‐N2O2 sites exhibited excellent catalytic activity and H2O2 selectivity, affording a H2O2 production rate of 12.86 
and an half‐cell energy‐efficiency of 0.07 
during a 100‐hours H2O2 production test in a flow‐cell.
High‐Efficiency Perovskite Solar Cells Enabled by Guanylation Reaction for Removing MACl Residual and In‐Situ Forming 2D Perovskite
Authors: Xie Zhuang , Duan Yuwei , Cheng Minghui , Li Yong , Liu Zhike , Li Hongxiang , Chen Yu , Zang Zhigang , Liu Shengzhong , Peng Qiang
Published: December 2024

The thermodynamical deprotonation of methylammonium chloride (MACl) has several detrimental influences on the quality of formamidinium (FA+)‐based perovskite, which limits both efficiency and stability of inverted perovskite solar cells (IPSCs). Herein, a new additive strategy was developed by introducing methyl carbamimidothioate hydroiodide (MCH) into perovskite precursor, where guanylation reaction occurred between MCH and MACl to form a new intermediate of methyl‐substituted guanidine (MSG). MSG could then bond with undercoordinated Pb2+ to in situ form a two‐dimensional (2D) perovskite, which would promote the growth and crystallization of three‐dimensional (3D) perovskite with higher crystallinity, lower defect‐states density and superior stability. Finally, the MCH‐treated IPSC with a small area (0.09 cm2) achieved an impressive power conversation efficiency (PCE) of 26.81 % (certified as 26.02 %), which is one of the highest PCEs reported to date. The large area MCH‐treated device (1.00 cm2) also obtained a high PCE of 24.36 %. Moreover, the unencapsulated and MCH‐treated device exhibited excellent operational stability, maintaining 91.95 % and 97.06 % of their initial efficiencies after aging in air and a nitrogen‐filled atmosphere at 85 °C for 1200 h. The encapsulated MCH‐treated devices retained 94.25 % of its initial efficiency after continuously tracking at the maximum power‐point for 1200 h in air.
Titanium‐Catalyzed Reaction of Silacyclobutanes with Alkenes: Mimicking the Reactivity and Reversing the Selectivity Towards Late Transition Metals
Authors: Wang Yaqiong , Zhang Jiong , Wang Fang , Wu Lipeng
Published: December 2024

Transition metal‐catalyzed ring opening and expansion reactions of silacyclobutanes (SCBs) constitute an atom‐ and step‐economical strategy to construct value‐added silicon‐containing chemicals. Despite extensive studies, the reaction of SCBs with simple alkenes has only one precedent. Moreover, most reported reactions of SCBs use late transition metals (Pd, Ni, Rh) as catalysts. By contrast, there are no reports of using early transition metals. Herein, we report the first example, to our knowledge, of early‐transition‐metal‐catalyzed reactions of SCBs using earth's second abundant titanium as a catalyst. Notably, orthogonal selectivity was observed. Selective activation of the relatively inert C(sp3)−Si bond was achieved in the case of benzosilacyclobutenes, a selectivity that has rarely been achieved using other metals. Even for silacyclobutanes with C(sp3)−Si bonds only, our titanium system also shows complementary selectivity towards late transition metals to give distinct products. Thus, structurally varied SCBs and alkenes were reacted in our system to afford structurally diverse silicon‐containing products that are otherwise difficult to obtain using other transition metals.
Chiroptical Amplification of [7]‐Helicene Nanographene by Additional Helical Chirality
Authors: Dongre Sangram D. , Venugopal Geethu , Kumar Viksit , Badrinarayan Jadhav Ashok , Kumar Jatish , Santhosh Babu Sukumaran
Published: December 2024

Nanographenes have captivated scientific interest since the pioneering discovery of graphene. Recently, attention has shifted towards exploring chiral and nonplanar nanographenes, for their distinct optical, chiroptical, and electronic properties. Despite the growing acceptance of helicenes, the research on inducing helical chirality on π‐extended derivatives to boost chiroptical properties remains unattended. In our study, we introduce a new π‐extended [7]‐helicene resulting from the condensation of diamines with 3,6‐dibromophenanthrene‐9,10‐dione, complemented by two hexabenzocoronene arms in the periphery. Notably, the nanographene containing binaphtho‐[1,4]diazocine, compared to the corresponding phenazine, exhibits a remarkable average 2.5, 5, and 10‐fold enhancements in quantum yield, dissymmetry factor, and brightness, respectively, when measured in five different solvents. These improvements underscore the significance of the induced helical chirality by the antiaromatic binaphtho‐[1,4]diazocine in influencing the chiroptical properties of the helical nanographene. Our research represents a significant stride toward unlocking the potential of π‐extended helicenes and lays the groundwork for further exploration in designing and synthesizing new chiral nanomaterials.
Harnessing of Cooperative Cu⋅⋅⋅H Interactions for Luminescent Low‐Coordinate Copper(I) Complexes towards Stable OLEDs
Authors: Zhang Qizheng , Li Nengquan , Wan Xintong , Song Xiu‐Fang , Zhang Yi , Liu He , Miao Jingsheng , Zou Yang , Yang Chuluo , Li Kai
Published: December 2024

Although two‐coordinate Cu(I) complexes are highly promising low‐cost emitters for organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), the exposed metal center in the linear coordination geometry makes them suffer from poor stability. Herein, we describe a strategy to develop stable carbene‐Cu‐amide complexes through installing intramolecular noncovalent Cu⋅⋅⋅H interactions. The employment of 13H‐dibenzo[a,i]carbazole (DBC) as the amide ligand leads to short Cu⋅⋅⋅H distances in addition to the Cu−N coordination bond. The resultant Cu(I) complexes exhibit yellow thermally activated delayed fluorescence with photoluminescence quantum yields of up to 86 % and radiative decay rate constants on the order of 106 s−1. Comparing with the analogues without Cu⋅⋅⋅H interactions, the pincer complexes have significantly improved stability. The vacuum‐deposited OLEDs show high‐performance electroluminescence with maximum external quantum efficiencies of up to 29.5 % and extremely small roll‐offs of only 3.5 % at 10,000 cd m−2. Remarkably, the operational lifetimes (LT90) are up to 68 h with an initial luminance of 3000 cd m−2. This work proves a feasible design of robust low‐coordinate metal complexes by leveraging secondary coordination interactions, which helps to overcome the long‐standing stability problem.
Unveiling Interference‐Free Acridine‐Calix[4]Arene‐Based Fluorescence paper and Electrochemical Sensor for Cyanazine from Agricultural Produces
Authors: Soni Heni , Shukla Malvika , Chaudhari Divyesh , Gandhi Sahaj , Pandya Alok , Sutariya Pinkesh G.
Published: December 2024

The construction of fluorescence sensor L1 for cyanazine (CNZ) by using calix[4]arene scaffold allied with 9‐Aminoacridine moiety has been reported. The recognized triazine herbicide CNZ decreased the fluorescence intensity of L1 by exhibiting “turn‐off” phenomenon having detection limit to be 7.79 μM obtained from emission study. The quenching response of L1: CNZ was observed between the range of 5–105 μM possessing binding constant calculated to be 9.201×106 M−1. The spiking experiment of CNZ into L1 has also been performed to evaluate potency of L1 using vegetables and cereals. Also, a paper‐based device has been prepared in order to implement this strategy for on‐spot monitoring of CNZ. The L1:CNZ binding has been confirmed by conducting electrochemical studies like cyclic voltammetry, differential pulse voltammetry, 1H NMR, FT‐IR, MALDI‐TOF, 1H NMR titration, PXRD investigation and computational analysis.
A Supramolecular Gel‐Based Protocol for the Detection of α‐Glycosidases for Screening Potential Drugs
Authors: Sakthivel Shruthi , Chaturvedi Pankaj Kumar , Maitra Uday
Published: December 2024

α‐Glycosidases are carbohydrate‐digesting enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of α‐1,4‐glycopyranoside bonds from oligosaccharides and disaccharides. α‐Glucosidase is an important biomarker for the diagnosis of type‐II diabetes, Azoospermia and Pompe diseases. Additionally, the mutations in α‐galactosidase lead to Fabry disease. Inhibitors targeting these enzymes are prescribed as anti‐diabetic medications and as effective chaperones for Fabry disease. Comprehending the function – regulation of α‐glycosidases requires accurate quantification methods. In this work, we highlight the design of a simple luminescent ‘turn‐on’ assay for sensing these two α‐glycosidases in a supramolecular TbCh hydrogel matrix using 1‐α‐glycosides as pro‐sensitizers. The protocol offers a cost‐effective method for selectively sensing α‐glycosidases in the detection limit of the subnanomolar range. Importantly, the developed enzyme sensors functioned as a platform for rapid screening of drug molecules based on their inhibition potency. Therefore, the protocol is useful for facilitating the advancement of therapeutics and diagnostics targeting this important class of enzymes.
Exploring the Clinical Signatures of Cervical Dysplasia Patients and Their Association With Vaginal Microbiota
Authors: Cheng Liqin , Yan Chunmei , Yang Yongxia , Hong Fanzhen , Du Juan
Published: December 2024

Aims

The vaginal microbiota plays a crucial role in women's health, and an imbalanced vaginal microbiota is linked to various diseases, including human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. However, most available data comes from Western countries and primarily focuses on HPV infection, with only a few studies considering detailed clinical factors to explore the relationship between vaginal microbiota and the development of cervical cancer, especially in China.

Materials and Methods

Our study involved 266 women, including individuals at all stages of cervical dysplasia, and healthy controls with and without HPV infection. We assessed several aspects of the vaginal environment, including vaginal microbiota composition using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, HPV infection status using the standard Roche Cobas method, pH value, age, and H2O2 levels from clinical records, and partner numbers and contraceptive methods obtained through questionnaires. The association of these clinical signatures with cervical dysplasia stages and vaginal microbiota was analyzed.

Key Findings

Our findings demonstrate a significant association between vaginal microbiota and cervical dysplasia stages. Patients with cervical dysplasia and cancer showed a substantial increase in HPV 16 infection, a higher prevalence of pH > 5, a lower H2O2 level, and older ages compared to healthy individuals. Additionally, these factors influence the beta diversity of the vaginal microbiota.

Significance

These results underscore the importance of considering the vaginal microbiota within the cancer microenvironment and highlight the need to integrate all available data to aid in the current diagnosis and understanding of cervical dysplasia and the cervical cancer microenvironment.
Multi‐Omics Analysis of the Molecular Mechanisms by Which Extract of Artemisia selengensis Turcz. Ameliorates DBP‐Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Guan Wenying , Jiang Xiaotan , Yu Xiaohua , Li Xinwei , Li Kangxing , Liu Huan , Wang Xinyi , Liu Xixia , Hou Jianjun , Wu Qin , Liu Chunhong
Published: December 2024

Artemisia selengensis Turcz. is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Artemisia in the family Asteraceae. Known for its nutrient richness, distinct flavor, and medicinal properties, Artemisia selengensis Turcz. has garnered attention. However, its efficacy, particularly in alleviating hepatic injury, remains underexplored. This study aims to assess the therapeutic potential of the 50% ethanol extract of Artemisia selengensis Turcz. (ASTE) in a mouse model of dibutyl phthalate (DBP)‐induced liver injury. Through multi‐omics analysis, including transcriptomics, metabolomics, and intestinal flora examination, we explored the pathways and key targets of ASTE in treating liver injury. Network pharmacology further identified the crucial components of ASTE for liver injury treatment. Our findings indicate that ASTE affects intestinal flora such as Adlercreutzia through flavonoids, particularly naringin and epicatechin. Additionally, key genes in the PPAR pathway, such as fatty acid–binding protein 3 (Fabp3), fatty acid–binding protein 5 (Fabp5), 3‐hydroxyacyl‐CoA dehydrogenase (Ehhadh), and phospholipid transfer protein (Pltp), influence glycerophospholipid metabolism, contributing to liver injury amelioration. This study sheds light on the molecular mechanisms underlying ASTE's hepatoprotective effects, laying the groundwork for its potential application as a functional food.
Same‐Day Discharge After Uncomplicated Transcatheter Tricuspid Valve‐In‐Valve Implantation
Authors: Chan Joseph Mun Hoong , Anderson Jason H. , Hagler Donald J. , Cabalka Allison K. , Taggart Nathaniel W.
Published: December 2024

Background

Tricuspid valve‐in‐valve (TVIV) implantation has traditionally included post‐procedure overnight in‐hospital observation with next‐day discharge. Recently, our practice has shifted toward same‐day discharge for most patients after vascular access site hemostasis and adequate recovery from anesthesia. However, data on the safety of this approach remains scarce.

Aims

Our study aims to describe our practice change and to identify factors that may lead to overnight observation post‐TVIV.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of patients who underwent uncomplicated TVIV implantation as an outpatient procedure at Mayo Clinic between 2011 and 2023.

Results

Of the 83 patients who underwent TVIV from 2011 to 2023, 65 (78%) were included in the study. The first 39 patients in our institutional series were observed overnight as standard practice. 18 (69%) of the most recent 26 patients in our series were discharged the same day; three patients who remained in the hospital overnight were because of provider preference and/or patient preference without any specific medical concern. Of all 47 patients who were observed overnight, one patient was treated for fluid overload, one patient had non‐sustained ventricular tachycardia on telemetry that resulted in adjustment of antiarrhythmic therapy, two patients had continued bleeding from the access sites and was observed for another day. Among the two of them, one also developed atrial tachyarrhythmias requiring initiation of additional antiarrhythmic therapy. Out of 18 patients discharged the same day, one patient had an ED presentation within 24 h due to access site bleeding which was resolved promptly. There was no mortality or procedural‐related readmission.

Conclusion

Same‐day discharge may be considered for adult patients who have undergone uncomplicated TVIV with adequate hemostasis and recovery after anesthesia.
Pacing‐Induced Cardiomyopathy in a Patient With a Leadless Pacemaker Following Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Ko Euihong , Isotani Akihiro , Shirai Shinichi , Ando Kenji
Published: December 2024

Conduction disturbances following transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) sometimes require permanent pacemaker implantation. However, little is known about the pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy (PICM) in leadless pacemaker (LP) after TAVR. Here we present a case of heart failure due to PICM 6 months after TAVR which was successfully treated with LOT‐CRT upgrade.
A Rare Case of Granular Cell Tumor of the Anus
Authors: Mehta C. H. , Kantzler E. J. , Suzuki M. , Honaker M. D.
Published: December 2024

Granular cell tumors (GCTs) are uncommon soft tissue neoplasms derived from Schwann cells that can arise from various regions of the body. The majority originate from the head and neck. They are rarely encountered in the gastrointestinal tract and even more rarely in the anorectal region. There is a paucity of literature with only a few case reports of GCT of the anus. We describe a 36‐year‐old African American male with a long‐standing history of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection, multiple perianal abscess and associated fistulas, and an ulcerated perianal lesion that revealed an anal GCT who was treated with excision and surveillance. Given that GCTs in the perianal region are extremely rare, a high index of suspicion of GCT of the anus is critical when patients present with anal masses, ulcers, or abscesses given the extremely poor prognosis of malignant GCTs.
18F‐FAPI versus 18F‐FDG PET/CT in the Diagnosis of Relapsing Polychondritis
Authors: Guo Xiaotong , Chen Juan , Zhao Qian , Liu Ying , Wang Xiuyan
Published: December 2024

Relapsing polychondritis (RP) is a rare immune‐mediated systemic inflammatory disease with diverse clinical manifestations. Independent involvement of the respiratory system in RP is uncommon. In the event of respiratory involvement as the initial airway‐only manifestation, the diagnosis of RP is challenging and might be delayed, and patients with respiratory involvement exhibit a poor prognosis. However, no specific diagnostic method is currently available for RP with respiratory system involvement as the main clinical manifestation. We present a 49‐year‐old female with the complaint of chronic dry cough accompanied by shortness of breath after exercise that has persisted for over a year. The patient was treated using corticosteroids. The patient's symptoms improved rapidly with the administration of 5 days of methylprednisolone sodium succinate at a dose of 40 mg/day. The treatment was then switched to methylprednisolone tablets at a dose of 40 mg/day, and the dosage was reduced by 4 mg every week until the cessation of therapy. Meanwhile, oral cyclophosphamide tablets were administered once every day at a dose of 100 mg each time. After 1 month of treatment, the symptoms of cough disappeared, the modified british medical research council (mMRC) grade dropped from 4 to 2, and the COPD assessment test (CAT) score dropped from 30 to 17. Repeated CT of the chest revealed that the tracheal wall thickening had alleviated. No recurrence was revealed in the follow‐up visit 12 months after drug withdrawal. The patient underwent 18F‐FDG PET/CT examination before hormone and immunosuppressive therapy, and 18F‐FAPI PET/CT examination was performed 5 days later. The 18F‐FDG PET/CT method revealed slight thickening of the local wall of the trachea and the left and right main bronchus, with no increase in the FDG metabolism, and no abnormalities in the rest of the cartilage. 18F‐FAPI PET‐CT imaging showed increased FAPI uptake in various parts of the body, including trachea and bronchus. The present study reports that compared to 18F‐FDG PET/CT, the 18F‐FAPI PET/CT revealed more lesions and provided a better image contrast, suggesting the latter as a suitable diagnostic method for RP, which could assist in improving the clinical management of RP patients.
Prolonged Hypoglycemic Encephalopathy: A Case Report
Authors: Shah Newton Ashish , Bastola Santosh , Shah Abhishek Kumar , Yadav Manish
Published: December 2024

Hypoglycemic encephalopathy is a rare yet life‐threatening diabetes complication, where overlapping symptoms with neurological conditions can delay diagnosis. Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible brain damage. Clinicians should suspect hypoglycemia in diabetic patients with altered mental status, as timely intervention improves outcomes and reduces mortality.
One‐Step Hydrothermal Synthesis of Glucose‐Induced Low Crystallinity NiCo‐Based Layered Double Hydroxides for High‐Performance Asymmetric Supercapacitors
Authors: Cheng Xiaoyang , Zhang Lihua , Li Lingyan , Wu Hao , Zheng Jinfeng , Sun Jiao , Li Guifang
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the electrochemical performance of NiCo‐based layered double hydroxide (NiCoLDH), the synthesis of low‐crystallinity NiCoLDH was induced by the adsorption of glucose and NiCoLDH. The results showed that glucose could not only effectively regulate the pore structure and morphology of NiCoLDH, but also had a regular effect on crystallinity. Pure phase NiCoLDH had higher crystallinity. When the mass of glucose is 0.05 g, the prepared NiCoLDH‐0.05 is a short‐range ordered structure embedded in the amorphous matrix. The crystallinity of the product decreases further with the further increase of glucose mass. Since the ordered structures have higher electrical conductivity, and amorphous structures have more defects and active sites, the structure of NiCoLDH‐0.05 is conducive to achieving the best electrochemical performance. Electrochemical test results show that NiCoLDH‐0.05 has a high specific capacitance, about 12 times that of the pure phase NiCoLDH, the mass of glucose is higher than or below 0.05 g, the specific capacitance will be further reduced. NiCoLDH‐0.05 and activated carbon assembled into an asymmetric supercapacitor have a power density of 400 W kg−1 at an energy density of 32.7 Wh kg−1. This study provides a new idea for obtaining excellent electrochemical properties by adjusting LDH crystallinity.
A genome‐wide association study identifies eight loci associated with intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm progression toward malignancy
Authors: Gentiluomo Manuel , Corradi Chiara , Apadula Laura , Comandatore Annalisa , Lauri Gaetano , Rossi Gemma , Peduzzi Giulia , Crippa Stefano , Rizzato Cosmeri , Falconi Massimo , Arcidiacono Paolo Giorgio , Morelli Luca , Capurso Gabriele , Campa Daniele
Published: December 2024

Background

Intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms (IPMNs) are precursors to pancreatic cancer, but not all IPMNs progress to cancer. The objective of this study was to identify the germline genetic variants associated with IPMN clinical progression by conducting the first genome‐wide association study (GWAS) and computing a polygenic hazard score (PHS) in 338 patients with IPMN.

Methods

The study population was divided into two subsets, and a Cox analysis adjusted for sex, age, cyst size at diagnosis, and the top 10 principal components was performed. A PHS was calculated using the genotypes of common variants associated with IPMN progression identified.

Results

Eight loci with significant associations (p < 5 × 10−8) were identified, and the most significant was 7q21.11‐rs117620617 (hazard ratio, 16.35; 95% confidence interval, 6.93–38.60; p = 1.80 × 10−10). All variants were associated with inflammatory processes, suggesting that alleles that predispose to an inflammatory prone phenotype may promote progression. The PHS indicated a statistically significant association (hazard ratio, 18.05; 95% confidence interval, 7.96–45.80; p = 6.18 × 10−11) with IPMN progression among individuals who had the highest number of effect alleles (fourth quartile) compared with those who had the lowest number (first quartile).

Conclusions

The current results study advance the understanding of individual predisposition to IPMN progression and underscore the potential use of genetics in the stratification of patients who have IPMN.