bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Spatiotemporal Resolution Biomimetic Thermoreceptors Realizing by Jointless p‐n Integration Thermoelectric Composites
Authors: Chen Chengzhi , Liu Zijian , Guo Liangchao , Huo Bingchen , Sun Qi , Liang Lirong , Du Chunyu , Chen Guangming
Published: September 2024

Human body temperature is a critical physiological indicator, reflecting metabolism and temperature regulation. Biomimetic temperature sensors with high temporal and spatial resolution are highly desired to emulate human skin's temperature perception capabilities. Here, a selective filtration method is proposed to fabricate a jointless p‐n thermoelectric module, integrating p‐type and n‐type materials with minimal interfacial barriers. The structure enables rapid response, minimal signal variation, and a robust linear relationship between open circuit voltage and temperature difference, making it suitable as a biomimetic thermoreceptor for enhancing humanoid robots with intelligent sensing capabilities. A smart thermoelectric sensing system with a high temporal and spatial resolution is developed using with jointless p‐n module as the sensing element. In temporal thermal sensing, the sensing system can timely and effectively identify the heat source, with a fast response time of <0.1 s. In addition, in spatial thermal sensing, the system reliably detects thermal stimuli within discrete regions of each measuring area of <1 × 1 cm2. This study provides an effective strategy for temperature sensors in thermoelectric sensing and biomimetic thermoreceptor applications.
Hyaluronic Acid Role in Biomaterials Prevascularization
Authors: Simińska‐Stanny Julia , Podstawczyk Daria , Delporte Christine , Nie Lei , Shavandi Armin
Published: September 2024

Tissue vascularization is a major bottleneck in tissue engineering. In this review, the state of the art on the intricate role of hyaluronic acid (HA) in angiogenesis is explored. HA plays a twofold role in angiogenesis. First, when released as a free polymer in the extracellular matrix (ECM), HA acts as a signaling molecule triggering multiple cascades that foster smooth muscle cell differentiation, migration, and proliferation thereby contributing to vessel wall thickening. Simultaneously, HA bound to the plasma membrane in the pericellular space functions as a polymer block, participating in vessel formation. Starting with the HA origins in native vascular tissues, the approaches aimed at achieving vascularization in vivo are reviewed. The significance of HA molecular weight (MW) in angiogenesis and the challenges associated with utilizing HA in vascular tissue engineering (VTE) are conscientiously addressed. The review finally focuses on a thorough examination and comparison of the diverse strategies adopted to harness the benefits of HA in the vascularization of bioengineered materials. By providing a nuanced perspective on the multifaceted role of HA in angiogenesis, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse in tissue engineering and advances the collective understanding of optimizing vascularization processes assisted by functional biomaterials.
Digitonin‐Loaded Nanoscale Metal–Organic Framework for Mitochondria‐Targeted Radiotherapy‐Radiodynamic Therapy and Disulfidptosis
Authors: Zhen Wenyao , Fan Yingjie , Germanas Tomas , Tillman Langston , Li Jinhong , Blenko Abigail L. , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Lin Wenbin
Published: September 2024

The efficacy of radiotherapy (RT) is limited by inefficient X‐ray absorption and reactive oxygen species generation, upregulation of immunosuppressive factors, and a reducing tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, the design of a mitochondria‐targeted and digitonin (Dig)‐loaded nanoscale metal‐organic framework, Th‐Ir‐DBB/Dig, is reported to overcome these limitations and elicit strong antitumor effects upon low‐dose X‐ray irradiation. Built from Th6O4(OH)4 secondary building units (SBUs) and photosensitizing Ir(DBB)(ppy)22+ (Ir‐DBB, DBB = 4,4′‐di(4‐benzoato)−2,2′‐bipyridine; ppy = 2‐phenylpyridine) ligands, Th‐Ir‐DBB exhibits strong RT‐radiodynamic therapy (RDT) effects via potent radiosensitization with high‐Z SBUs for hydroxyl radical generation and efficient excitation of Ir‐DBB ligands for singlet oxygen production. Th‐Ir‐DBB/Dig releases digitonin in acidic TMEs to trigger disulfidptosis of cancer cells and sensitize cancer cells to RT‐RDT through glucose and glutathione depletion. The released digitonin simultaneously downregulates multiple immune checkpoints in cancer cells and T cells through cholesterol depletion. As a result, Th‐Ir‐DBB/dig plus X‐ray irradiation induces strong antitumor immunity to effectively inhibit tumor growth in mouse models of colon and breast cancer.
Efficient Deep‐Blue Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes Employing Doublet Sensitization
Authors: Sun Yu‐Fu , Chen Xu‐Lin , Zhang Dong‐Hai , Huo Peihao , Liu Zhiwei , Zhou Liang , Lin Fu‐Lin , Lu Can‐Zhong
Published: September 2024

Fast and efficient exciton utilization is a crucial solution and highly desirable for achieving high‐performance blue organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs). However, the rate and efficiency of exciton utilization in traditional OLEDs, which employ fully closed‐shell materials as emitters, are inevitably limited by spin statistical limitations and transition prohibition. Herein, a new sensitization strategy, namely doublet‐sensitized fluorescence (DSF), is proposed to realize high‐performance deep‐blue electroluminescence. In the DSF‐OLED, a doublet‐emitting cerium(III) complex, Ce‐2, is utilized as sensitizer for multi‐resonance thermally activated delayed fluorescence emitter ν‐DABNA. Experimental results reveal that holes and electrons predominantly recombine on Ce‐2 to form doublet excitons, which subsequently transfer energy to the singlet state of ν‐DABNA via exceptionally fast (over 108 s−1) and efficient (≈100%) Förster resonance energy transfer for deep‐blue emission. Due to the circumvention of spin‐flip in the DSF mechanism, near‐unit exciton utilization efficiency and remarkably short exciton residence time of 1.36 µs are achieved in the proof‐of‐concept deep‐blue DSF‐OLED, which achieves a Commission Internationale de l'Eclairage coordinate of (0.13, 0.14), a high external quantum efficiency of 30.0%, and small efficiency roll‐off of 14.7% at a luminance of 1000 cd m−2. The DSF device exhibits significantly improved operational stability compared with unsensitized reference device.
Unveiling the Multifunctional Carbon Fiber Structural Battery
Authors: Chaudhary Richa , Xu Johanna , Xia Zhenyuan , Asp Leif E.
Published: September 2024

Structural batteries refer to the multifunctional device capable of both storing electrical energy and bearing mechanical loads concurrently. In this context, carbon fibers emerge as a compelling choice of material and serve dual purpose by storing energy and providing stiffness and strength to the battery. Previous investigation has demonstrated proof‐of‐concept of functional positive electrodes against metallic lithium in structural battery electrolyte. Here, an all‐carbon fiber‐based structural battery is demonstrated utilizing the pristine carbon fiber as negative electrode, lithium iron phosphate (LFP)‐coated carbon fiber as positive electrode, and a thin cellulose separator. All components are embedded in structural battery electrolyte and cured to provide rigidity to the battery. The energy density of structural battery is enhanced by use of the thin separator. The structural battery composite demonstrates an energy density of 30 Wh kg−1 and cyclic stability up to 1000 cycles with ≈100% of Coulombic efficiency. Remarkably, the elastic modulus of the all‐fiber structural battery exceeds 76 GPa when tested in parallel to the fiber direction – by far highest till date reported in the literature. Structural batteries have immediate implication in replacing structural parts of electric vehicles while reducing the number of conventional batteries. Thus, offering mass savings to future electric vehicles.
Hydrogen Adsorption on Solid and Liquid Surfaces of Ga–Sn and Ga–In
Authors: Ruffman Charlie , Case Samuel R. B. , Grayson Tom , Gaston Nicola
Published: September 2024

Dynamic liquid metal catalysts have remarkable activity and selectivity toward certain reactions, such as carbon dioxide reduction. The surface hydrogen coverage may play a role in this, including controlling competing reactions such as hydrogen evolution. Using a novel method of statistically selecting relevant snapshots from a dynamic liquid metal trajectory, the hydrogen adsorption energy is reported across liquid surfaces of Ga–Sn and Ga–In via density functional theory. A fully dynamic sampling of hydrogen adsorption to the liquid metal is also conducted with ab initio molecular dynamics at temperature. The results indicate that hydrogen only associates weakly with Ga–Sn and Ga–In surfaces, with minimal difference between the two materials. Hydrogen adsorbs only slightly more stably (≈0.1 eV) to the liquid surfaces compared to the solid. A low hydrogen coverage is predicted on the liquid metal of ≈0.03 H Å−2 at potentials of around –1.15 V (vs RHE). However, the mobility of hydrogen on the liquid surface is much greater due to a novel mechanism whereby the dynamic surface rearranges, opening pathways for diffusion. The results suggest that the unique catalytic behavior of these liquid metal materials may be due to changes in adsorbate diffusivity when the metals are melted.
Narrowband Emission in Pt(II) Complexes via Ligand Engineering for Blue Phosphorescent Organic Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Choi Jiyoung , Cheong Kiun , Han Seungwon , Lee Jun Yeob
Published: September 2024

In this study, three stable tetradentate Pt(II) complexes are synthesized and characterized, namely, Pt‐biPh, Pt‐biPh5tBu, and Pt‐biPh4tBu, tailored for blue phosphorescent organic light‐emitting diodes to realize high‐efficiency and narrowband emissions via ligand engineering. Biphenyl (Pt‐biPh) or tert‐butyl‐modified biphenyl (Pt‐biPh5tBu and Pt‐biPh4tBu) is introduced into the carbene unit of the ligand to control the intermolecular interactions between the Pt(II) phosphors. Pt‐biPh, Pt‐biPh5tBu, and Pt‐biPh4tBu exhibit high photoluminescence quantum yields of 74%, 84%, and 92% with exciton lifetimes of 2.2, 2.3, and 2.5 µs, respectively, demonstrating rapid and efficient light emission. Furthermore, Pt‐biPh, Pt‐biPh5tBu, and Pt‐biPh4tBu show maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) values of 18.1%, 19.0%, and 21.8%, respectively. Pt‐biPh5tBu and Pt‐biPh4tBu exhibit narrowband emission with a full width at half maximum of 21 nm owing to the small vibrational emission because of their sterically hindered and bulky ligand structures. Moreover, phosphor‐sensitized thermally activated delayed fluorescence devices employing a Pt‐biPh4tBu sensitizer achieve a high EQE of 28.6%. In particular, Pt‐biPh4tBu performs better than the state‐of‐the‐art phosphor as the sensitizer of the blue phosphor‐sensitized thermally activated delayed fluorescence devices in terms of the EQE.
Iron‐N,N,N’,N’‐Tetramethylethylenediamine‐Catalyzed Selective Substitution of Functionalized Diene and Triene Monoepoxides with Aliphatic Grignard Reagents
Authors: Kobayashi Shoma , Abe Kazuma , Hata Takeshi
Published: September 2024

When γ,δ‐epoxy‐α,β‐unsaturated esters were treated with 3 equiv. of aliphatic Grignard reagents in the presence of 10 and 20 mol% FeCl2 and N,N,N’,N’‐tetramethylethylenediamine, regio‐ and stereoselective substitution of the epoxide moiety with the aliphatic Grignard reagent occurred, producing exclusively δ‐hydroxy‐γ‐alkyl‐α,β‐unsaturated esters. Similarly, γ,δ‐epoxy‐α,β,ϵ,ζ‐unsaturated esters and amides underwent transformation to the corresponding δ‐hydroxy‐γ‐alkyl‐α,β,ϵ,ζ‐unsaturated esters and amides as single isomers, respectively.
Targeting Cross‐Talks of Notch and VEGF to Tweak the EMT and EPT Dynamics in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Sen Plaboni , Ghosh Siddhartha Sankar
Published: September 2024

The associations of the Notch pathway with the major oncogenic pathways (especially the receptor tyrosine kinases, RTKs) are primarily responsible for inducing EMT (epithelial to mesenchymal transition), angiogenesis, and chemoresistance. In this study, Axitinib is used in combination with LY411575 (γ‐secretase inhibitor) and it is observed that the co‐treatment synergistically induced apoptosis (by 37.36% in MDAMB231 and 27.9% in MDAMB468), arrests cells at the G2/M phase, decreases the stemness properties of the triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. It also diminishes the spheroid forming ability, enhances the expression of epithelial markers, such as E‐cadherin (by 2.2 fold in MDAMB231 and 2.51 fold in MDAMB468), and downregulated the expression of mesenchymal markers. Additionally, the protein expression profile of the pro‐oncogenic and pro‐survival genes also reduces significantly after the administration of co‐therapy, which is highlighted by a reduction in the levels of pEGFR, pFAK, pMAPK, NF‐κB, etc. Moreover, the expression of pericyte markers (such as PDGFRs, α‐SMA, c‐kit, and NG2) reduces significantly in both TNBC cells upon co‐treatment, thereby hinting toward the inhibition of epithelial‐to‐pericyte transition (EPT). The current work endows with the effectiveness of the co‐therapy on the EMT and EPT dynamics of TNBC upon inhibition of the major crosstalk between the Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)t and Notch pathway.
Molecularly Woven Cationic Covalent Organic Frameworks for Highly Selective Electrocatalytic Conversion of CO2 to CO
Authors: Dagnaw Fentahun Wondu , Harrath Karim , Zheng Tao , Wu Xu‐Dong , Liu Yu‐Ze , Li Rui‐Qi , Xie Luo‐Han , Li Zhen , He Xuezhong , Tong Qing‐Xiao , Jian Jing‐Xin
Published: September 2024

Coupling carbon capture with electrocatalytic carbon dioxide reduction (CO2R) to yield high‐value chemicals presents an appealing avenue for combating climate change, yet achieving highly selective electrocatalysts remains a significant challenge. Herein, two molecularly woven covalent organic frameworks (COFs) are designed, namely CuCOF and CuCOF+, with copper(I)‐bisphenanthroline complexes as building blocks. The metal–organic helical structure unit made the CuCOF and CuCOF+ present woven patterns, and their ordered pore structures and cationic properties enhanced their CO2 adsorption and good conductivity, which is confirmed by gas adsorption and electrochemical analysis. In the electrocatalytic CO2R measurements, CuCOF+ decorated with extra ethyl groups exhibit a main CO product with selectivity of 57.81%, outperforming the CuCOF with 42.92% CO at the same applied potential of 0.8 VRHE. After loading Pd nanoparticles, CuCOF‐Pd and CuCOF+‐Pd performed increased CO selectivity up to 84.97% and 95.45%, respectively. Combining the DFT theoretical calculations and experimental measurements, it is assumed that the molecularly woven cationic COF provides a catalytic microenvironment for CO2R and ensures efficient charge transfer from the electrode to the catalytic center, thereby achieving high electrocatalytic activity and selectivity. The present work significantly advances the practice of cationic COFs in real‐time CO2 capture and highly selective conversion to value‐added chemicals.
Evaluating Chinese fiber hemp (Cannabis sativa L.) varieties and planting dates in North Carolina
Authors: Halker China Allissa P. , Woodley Alex L. , Reberg‐Horton S. Chris , Henriquez Inoa Shannon , Suchoff David H.
Published: September 2024

Field trials were conducted in 2021 and 2022 to evaluate the effects of planting date (mid‐March, mid‐April, and mid‐May) on 11 fiber hemp (Cannabis sativa L. <0.3% total tetrahydrocannabinol) varieties. Trials were conducted in Goldsboro, Kinston, and Salisbury, NC. Each location followed a split‐plot randomized complete block design with at least three blocks where planting date was the main‐plot and variety the sub‐plot. Varieties investigated originated from China and Australia (2021 only). Data collection included flowering time, end of season stand counts, stem height, diameter, and final retted dry straw yield. We found differences among the varieties investigated in both years; however, no distinct trend was observed across years. All varieties investigated flowered at the end of August and beginning of September, allowing for a long growing season and ability to produce abundant biomass. In general, the Chinese genetics yielded higher stem biomass compared to previously reported European genetics. Stem thickness was >7.5 mm, which is generally considered the maximum width for textile‐grade fiber production. To achieve thinner stems from the varieties investigated, harvesting prior to male‐flower initiation may be required. The crop experienced temperatures below freezing in both years with no signs of damage. Taken together, farmers seeking to plant fiber hemp in North Carolina have a wide planting window from mid‐March to mid‐May using these Chinese varieties.
Multihead Attention U‐Net for Magnetic Particle Imaging–Computed Tomography Image Segmentation
Authors: Juhong Aniwat , Li Bo , Liu Yifan , Yang Chia‐Wei , Yao Cheng‐You , Agnew Dalen W. , Lei Yu Leo , Luker Gary D. , Bumpers Harvey , Huang Xuefei , Piyawattanametha Wibool , Qiu Zhen
Published: September 2024

Magnetic particle imaging (MPI) is an emerging noninvasive molecular imaging modality with high sensitivity and specificity, exceptional linear quantitative ability, and potential for successful applications in clinical settings. Computed tomography (CT) is typically combined with the MPI image to obtain more anatomical information. Herein, a deep learning‐based approach for MPI‐CT image segmentation is presented. The dataset utilized in training the proposed deep learning model is obtained from a transgenic mouse model of breast cancer following administration of indocyanine green (ICG)‐conjugated superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoworms (NWs‐ICG) as the tracer. The NWs‐ICG particles progressively accumulate in tumors due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. The proposed deep learning model exploits the advantages of the multihead attention mechanism and the U‐Net model to perform segmentation on the MPI‐CT images, showing superb results. In addition, the model is characterized with a different number of attention heads to explore the optimal number for our custom MPI‐CT dataset.
Stereoselective Synthesis of Oxetanes Catalyzed by an Engineered Halohydrin Dehalogenase
Authors: Li Junkuan , Yuan Bo , Li Congcong , Zhao Zhouzhou , Guo Jiaxin , Zhang Pengpeng , Qu Ge , Sun Zhoutong
Published: September 2024

Although biocatalysis has garnered widespread attention in both industrial and academic realms, the enzymatic synthesis of chiral oxetanes remains an underdeveloped field. Halohydrin dehalogenases (HHDHs) are industrially relevant enzymes that have been engineered to accomplish the reversible transformation of epoxides. In this study, a biocatalytic platform was constructed for the stereoselective kinetic resolution of chiral oxetanes and formation of 1,3‐disubstituted alcohols. HheC from Agrobacterium radiobacter AD1 was engineered to identify key variants capable of catalyzing the dehalogenation of γ‐haloalcohols (via HheC M1‐M3) and ring opening of oxetanes (via HheC M4‐M5) to access both (R)‐ and (S)‐configured products with high stereoselectivity and remarkable catalytic activity, yielding up to 49 % with enantioselectivities exceeding 99 % ee and E>200. The current strategy is broadly applicable as demonstrated by expansion of the substrate scope to include up to 18 examples for dehalogenation and 16 examples for ring opening. Additionally, the functionalized products are versatile building blocks for pharmaceutical applications. To shed light on the molecular recognition mechanisms for the relevant variants, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations were performed. The current strategy expands the scope of HHDH‐catalyzed chiral oxetane ring construction, offering efficient access to both enantiomers of chiral oxetanes and 1,3‐disubstituted alcohols.
Application of microbubble air flotation to harvest Microcystis sp. from agriculture wastewater: The regulation and mechanisms
Authors: Ye Jianfeng , Zhu Zhihao , Song Zhaofeng , Xu Huiting , Xu Tianchen , Liu Hui
Published: September 2024

The harvesting of microalgae is the main bottleneck of its large‐scale biomass production, and seeking an efficient, green, and low‐cost microalgae harvesting technology is one of the urgent problems to be solved. Microbubble air flotation has been proven to be an effective measure, but the mechanisms of microbubbles‐algal cell attachment are still unclear. In this study, microbubble air flotation was used as a harvesting method for Microcystis cultured in agricultural wastewater. The process mechanism of microbubble air flotation harvesting microalgae in wastewater was fully revealed from three aspects (the design of bubble formation, the adhesion law, and the recovery rate of microalgae under different working conditions). The results show that the length of the release pipe is the main factor affecting the proportion of microbubbles with a particle size of less than 50 μm. In the process of adhesion, when the particle size of microbubbles is 0.6–1.7 times the size of Microcystis, the adhesion efficiency of microbubbles to Microcystis is the highest. Under the conditions of pressure 0.45 MPa, gas–liquid ratio 5%, and release pipe length 100 cm, the harvesting performance of Microcystis was the best. Microbubble air flotation has better harvesting performance (63.5%, collection rate) of Microcystis with higher density. By understanding the mechanism of microbubble flotation, the technical parameters of microbubble flotation for harvesting energy microalgae are optimized to provide support for the development of efficient and low‐cost devices and equipment for collecting microalgae.
Rational design of short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase for enantio‐complementary synthesis of chiral 1,2‐diols by successive hydroxymethylation and reduction of aldehydes
Authors: Ren Xiu‐Xin , Su Bing‐Mei , Xu Xin‐Qi , Xu Lian , Lin Juan
Published: September 2024

Enantiopure 1,2‐diols are widely used in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and functional materials as essential building blocks or bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, developing a mild, efficient and environmentally friendly biocatalytic route for manufacturing enantiopure 1,2‐diols from simple substrate remains a challenge. Here, we designed and realized a step‐wise biocatalytic cascade to access chiral 1,2‐diols starting from aromatic aldehyde and formaldehyde enabled by a newly mined benzaldehyde lyase from Sphingobium sp. combined with a pair of tailored‐made short‐chain dehydrogenase/reductase from Pseudomonas monteilii (PmSDR‐MuR and PmSDR‐MuS) capable of producing (R)‐ and (S)‐1‐phenylethane‐1,2‐diol with 99% ee. The planned biocatalytic cascade could synthesize a series of enantiopure 1,2‐diols with a broad scope (16 samples), excellent conversions (94%–99%), and outstanding enantioselectivity (up to 99% ee), making it an effective technique for producing chiral 1,2‐diols in a more environmentally friendly and sustainable manner.
A selective, sensitive and fast LC–MS/MS method for cabotegravir quantification in rat plasma and pharmacokinetic investigations
Authors: Ramarao Bandaru Venkata , Kamalakaran Anand Solomon
Published: September 2024

This study presents a novel liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method for quantifying cabotegravir (CAB) in rat plasma. A novel, sensitive, and rapid LC‐MS/MS method has been developed and validated. Furthermore, protein precipitation technique allowed us to lowered the limit of quantification (LOQ) to nanogram levels, allowing detection of smaller CAB amounts in plasma samples. A review of scientific literature reveals that this method is superior than published methods in terms of runtime, sensitivity, wide linearity, and cost, using LC–MS/MS to quantify CAB in biological samples. CAB reached its maximum concentration (Cmax) of 78.401 μg/mL in rat plasma at 1.50 h (Tmax). Linearity was evaluated across 0.05–1000 μg/mL for CAB using five calibration curves with at least nine standards each with r2 > 0.9997. The intra‐ and inter‐day precision and accuracy results were below 15% and acceptable as per Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines. Stability of compounds were established in a battery of stability studies, that is, benchtop, autosampler, and long‐term storage stability as well as freeze thaw cycles. The validated method can be used as a routine method to support pharmacokinetic studies.
Changes to NCAA infractions process address exemplary cooperation, impact on penalties
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: September 2024

LAS VEGAS — Division I athletics directors should pay close attention to recent changes to the NCAA infractions process. The changes, which took effect Aug. 1, define exemplary cooperation in the infractions process and how that cooperation impacts prescribed penalties — including the removal of a postseason ban — in most cases.
Did court dismiss coach's retaliation claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: September 2024

A Black baseball player at Saint Edward's University accused a white head coach of racial discrimination,    sparking an online petition demanding his removal and a student‐led on‐campus protest calling for his resignation. However, an independent investigator hired by the university found no evidence of misconduct by the coach.
Enhanced Efficiency of Amide‐Substituted Quinuclidine‐Boranes as Hydridic Hydrogen Atom Transfer Catalysts for Photoinduced Hydroalkylation of Unactivated Olefins†
Authors: Yang Xiao , Ma Mengdi , Xu Meichen , Pang Yubing , Zhao Haiying , Ye Juntao
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

An amide‐substituted quinuclidine‐borane has been identified as a more efficient hydridic hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) catalyst for the hydroalkylation of unactivated olefins under visible‐light irradiation. 1H NMR titration experiments reveal that the amide moiety of the quinuclidine‐borane catalyst forms stronger hydrogen bonds with the carbonyl substrates, thereby improving the reaction yields. Furthermore, it was found that the reaction yields correlate well with the association constant between the quinuclidine‐borane catalyst and the carbonyl substrate. A scale‐up reaction using a continuous‐flow photoreactor has also been demonstrated.
A Bioequivalence Trial of Lenvatinib Mesylate Capsules in Healthy Subjects Under Fasting and Postprandial Conditions
Authors: Shao Junbo , Liu Xingxing , Zhang Geying , Xiang Ajun , Xie Xiaoyan
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to evaluate the comparative effectiveness and safety profiles of generic lenvatinib mesylate capsules and the reference product in a cohort of healthy Chinese individuals. The research design consisted of a randomized, open‐label trial with a single‐dose regimen, 2 crossover periods, and 2 distinct phases involving participants from the Chinese population. A total of 24 individuals were enrolled in the fasting study, with an additional 27 participants included in the postmeal study. Each participant received a single dose of either 4 mg of the reference product or the study product per cycle. The washout period was 14 days between each period. Bioequivalence was assessed through the analysis of geometric mean and ratio of pharmacokinetic parameters, while the safety of both drugs was evaluated by monitoring adverse events (AEs). Following a single oral administration of lenvatinib (4 mg), linear pharmacokinetics were observed. The rate of absorption was found to be significantly faster under fasting conditions (median time to maximum concentration, 2.3‐2.5 hours), while the presence of a high‐fat diet resulted in delayed absorption (median tmax, 5.3‐6.1 hours). Furthermore, the 90% confidence intervals for the reference and test pharmacokinetic parameters under both fasting and postprandial conditions fell within the bioequivalence standard range of 80%‐125%. AEs were reported in 34.78% of cases during fasting and in 48.15% of cases after eating. There was no significant difference in AE rates between the reference and study products. The study determined that both the study product and the reference product were bioequivalent and well tolerated by healthy Chinese participants in both fasting and postprandial conditions.
Characteristics of Drugs from Non‐Global Companies for Hematologic Malignancies and Impact on Global Regulatory Approval
Authors: Matsuda Kensuke , Nagai Sumimasa , Sugimoto Koichi
Published: September 2024

The number of drugs developed by non‐global companies, including biotech start‐ups, has increased; however, their characteristics and impact on global regulatory approval are not well understood. Using a public database, we identified new molecular entities (NMEs) approved for hematologic malignancies in the US from January 2011 to December 2022. They were divided into those submitted by non‐global companies (non‐global group) and those by global companies (global group). We identified 48 NMEs, of which 19 (40%) were classified as non‐global. Of these, 13 (68%) were from US‐based companies. In the non‐global group, 63% (12/19) of the NMEs had received accelerated approval in the US, of which only 50% (6/12) had a post‐approval confirmatory trial by September 2023. Regarding the impact on the approval in the European Union (EU) and Japan, the unapproval rate of 2 years after US approval was higher in the non‐global group than in the global group in the EU (56% vs. 21%) and Japan (94% vs. 64%). In conclusion, many NMEs from non‐global companies had received accelerated approval in the US based on phase I/II trials. NMEs from non‐global companies had a higher unapproval rate at 2 years in both the EU and Japan.
The Impact of Melt Transparency on Li2MoO4 Single Crystal Growth by the Czochralski Technique
Authors: Bouzouaoui Yahia Zakarya , Ayadi Rayane , Brakni Oumaima , Zermout Samir , Lasloudji Idir , Velázquez Matias
Published: September 2024

In this paper, it is found that taking a semitransparent melt, influences c–m interface shape, heat transfer, melt flow and von Mises thermal stress distributions, therefore the quality of the grown crystal. As a result, when absorption coefficients of both melt and crystal change from transparent to opaque case, the c–m interface convexity reduces from 12.5 to 5.8 mm, its shape becomes more convex toward the melt, and the maximum von Mises thermal stresses decreases from 69.55 to 13.8 MPa. For the second study, where the crystal absorption coefficient is fixed at , the c–m interface convexity increases with the increase in melt absorption coefficient. The maximum and minimum von Mises stresses for the case are low compared to other values; then the grown crystal has a good quality.
Harnessing the therapeutic effects of nature for chronic Pain: A role for immersive virtual reality? A narrative review
Authors: Smith Alexander , Wyles Kayleigh J. , Hernandez Sonia Medina , Clarke Sophie , Schofield Patricia , Hughes Sam W.
Published: September 2024

Background and Objective

There is a growing interest in the relationship between nature and pain relief. Evidence from environmental psychology, neuroscience and physiology‐based studies point towards analgesic effects of nature being mediated through various cognitive, affective and/or autonomic factors. Being able to harness these therapeutic effects using immersive virtual reality (VR) could help to optimize and improve accessibility of nature‐based environments as part of chronic pain management plans. In this narrative review, we present evidence supporting a new theoretical framework for nature‐based analgesia and suggest ways for applying this through immersive VR.

Databases and Data Treatment

We provide an overview of the evidence on (1) the therapeutic effects of nature on pain, (2) environmental psychology theory that underpins the health benefits of nature, (3) key mechanistic evidence from nature neuroimaging and physiology‐based studies, (4) previous studies that have used VR‐based nature in pain research and (5) how to design effective VR interventions that can be used to integrate nature into immersive 360 environments.

Results

We have demonstrated how environmental psychology, neuroscience and physiology‐based research can be used to form a novel theoretical framework for nature‐based analgesia. Using this framework, we identify how key aspects of nature can act as analgesic and how this can be harnessed using immersive VR.

Conclusions

Through developing this theoretical framework, we have provided a foundation on which to guide future experimental and clinical studies as well as helping to improve the accessibility of nature for chronic pain patients through immersive VR technologies.

Significance

This review article summarizes key multidisciplinary evidence to help understand how nature exerts beneficial effects on pain processing. The use of this theoretical framework alongside advances in immersive VR technologies provides a springboard for future research and can be used to help develop new nature‐based therapeutics using VR.
Green Electrochemical Sensors, Their Applications and Greenness Metrics Used: A Review
Authors: Berkel Caglar , Özbek Oguz
Published: September 2024

Green analytical methods are important techniques that aim to reduce or eliminate the use of harmful chemicals and waste in various analyses. These methods, based on green chemistry principles, are environmentally friendly and reliable. Electrochemical techniques have an essential role in diverse analyses, and are presented as a superior alternative to existing analytical devices in terms of different parameters. In the present review, we have comprehensively covered electrochemistry‐based sensors that are developed using green chemistry principles and evaluated their performance characteristics and specific working conditions. We here included sensors developed based on potentiometry and voltammetry methodologies, and detailed their greenness potentials based on certain metrics. Considering the advantages provided by these environmentally friendly new generation sensors, it will be inevitable for researchers working in this field to direct their attention to sensors that can be produced with green approaches.
Simultaneous biosorption of chromium and zinc from aqueous solution by Lactobacillus plantarum exopolysaccharides and biofilm characterized by structural and functional analysis
Authors: Singh Anchal , Ahmed Mazia , Iqbal Unaiza , Srivastava Urvashi , Saini Pinki
Published: September 2024

Heavy metals represent significant environmental pollutants in today's world. The primary sources of human exposure to these heavy metals are through food and water, which can lead to various life‐threatening diseases. Therefore, it is imperative to focus on the removal of these contaminants to safeguard human health. The study describes the optimization of biosorption conditions of chromium [Cr(III)] and zinc [Zn(II)] through biofilm and exopolysaacharides (EPS) of Lactobacillus plantarum. The strain was tested for minimum inhibitory concentration and assessed at 100–350 ppm for Cr (III) and Zn (II) in terms of log cfu/mL. Metal adsorption capacity of biofilm was slightly higher as compared to EPS. Biosorption of Cr (III) at pH 2 showed 90% biosorption through biofilms and 88% through EPS. Zn (II) showed maximum binding of about 86% and 78% by biofilm and EPS, respectively, at pH 8 at 37°C for 24 h. The binding of metal is mostly dependent upon the functional group present, the surface morphology of biofilm, and the EPS of strain.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of kawakawa (Piper excelsum): An integrative mRNA–miRNA approach
Authors: Tautuiaki Senilaite , Gojer Jerusha , Jayaprakash Ramya , Sharma Pankaja , Pook Chris , Foster Meika , Miles‐Chan Jennifer , Mithen Richard , Ramzan Farha
Published: September 2024

Kawakawa (Piper excelsum) is an endemic medicinal plant widely consumed by Māori in New Zealand. Presence of diverse biologically active phytochemicals in kawakawa may underpin its putative therapeutic anti‐inflammatory properties. However, no human studies on its anti‐inflammatory effects are yet undertaken. Blood samples from a randomized controlled dietary intervention exploring the impact of kawakawa compared to control on postprandial microRNAs (miRNA) abundances and their respective gene and protein targets in a cohort of healthy human volunteers (n = 26; Age; 33.6 ± 1.9 year and BMI; 22.5 ± 0.4 kg/m2) were analyzed. Postprandial levels of nine miRNAs showed differential abundances; hsa‐miR‐17‐5p, ‐21‐5p, ‐320a‐5p, let‐7g‐5p, ‐16‐5p, ‐122‐5p, and ‐144‐3p was upregulated while as hsa‐miR‐221‐3p and ‐223‐3p was downregulated in response to kawakawa compared to control. In silico analysis indicated enrichment of miRNAs in multiple inflammation‐related pathways, including apoptosis, cytokine signaling, MAPK signaling, and MTOR pathways. Furthermore, gene expression of IL‐8 (p = .03), IL‐6 (p = .01), and PPAR‐γ were significantly reduced following kawakawa intake compared to control. While as plasma IL‐6 showed a significant increase over 120 min in the kawakawa arm. These results highlight kawakawa to exert anti‐inflammatory effects by modulating the expression of miRNAs and their target genes and proteins in the inflammatory signaling pathways.
Poliovirus on the rise in Pakistan amidst unprecedented floods and COVID‐19 pandemic: An urgent concern
Authors: Tabassum Shehroze , Nazir Abubakar , Khan Maleeka Zamurad , Gill Saima , Akilimali Aymar , Mukherjee Dattatreya , Marsool Mohammed Dheyaa Marsool , Oduoye Malik Olatunde
Published: September 2024

Background

Poliomyelitis is always a great concern in Pakistan and is a public health emergency. COVID‐19 and recent floods have increased the challenge.

Aim

This article highlights the situation of polio in Pakistan and also recommends several steps to eradicate the disease as early as possible.

Methodology

Selected articles were selected from electronic databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus using keywords such as Wild Poliovirus, Vaccine Derived Polio Infection, Acute Flaccid Paralysis, Vaccine, and Pakistan.

Result

Polio infection has two types, wild poliovirus and vaccine‐derived polio infection. 2019 and 2020 were a challenging time as cases were increased at that time in Pakistan. Acute flaccid paralysis is the most common complication of this disease. The maximum cases of polio are being reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Conclusion

A special public health importance should be given in this province. Regular vaccination and strict surveillance are important. It is also important to spread awareness among the people. Early identification and timely diagnosis are very important. Early diagnosis, proper timely treatment, vaccination, awareness, and community‐based research will help Pakistan to eradicate this disease as early as possible.
Fertility status and depression: A case‐control study among women in Herat, Afghanistan
Authors: Niazi Aziz‐ur‐Rahman , Alekozay Mina , Osmani Khadija , Najm Abdul Fattah
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

On a global scale, an estimated 17.5% of the reproductive‐aged population experiences clinical infertility. Beyond its categorization as a reproductive health concern, infertility emerges as a substantial independent risk factor for the development of various mental health disorders. The current study aims to investigate the prevalence of depression among women experiencing infertility compared to fertile women in Herat city, Afghanistan.

Methods

This hospital‐based case‐control study was conducted in Herat city, Afghanistan, during the latter half of 2023 on women aged 15–49. Sociodemographic and infertility data were gathered by a gynecologist using a structured questionnaire with 14 items. Assessment of depression employed the Dari‐translated version of the Patient Health Questionnaire. The data were scored and categorized following the instrument's guidelines. To examine the association between categorical variables, a chi‐square test was conducted, with a significance level set at 0.05 for all analyses. These statistical procedures were performed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 27.

Results

Our investigation revealed a statistically significant association (p < 0.001) between infertility and depression. Infertility was associated with a markedly increased risk of depression, as evidenced by a prevalence of 79.0% in infertile women compared to 44.4% in fertile women. The study found a link between depression, health, and nutritional status in both infertile and fertile participants. Notably, within the infertile group, the longer a woman struggled with infertility, the more likely she was to experience depression.

Conclusion

Given the substantial prevalence and important correlates of depression among infertile women in Herat, Afghanistan, it is imperative for policymakers, mental health professionals, and gynecologists to specifically address the mental well‐being of this vulnerable population.
Identification of novel candidate predisposing genes in familial nonmedullary thyroid carcinoma implicating DNA damage repair pathways
Authors: Pires Carolina , Marques Inês J. , Saramago Ana , Moura Margarida M. , Pojo Marta , Cabrera Rafael , Santos Catarina , Rosário Francisco , Lousa Diana , Vicente João B. , Bandeiras Tiago M. , Teixeira Manuel R. , Leite Valeriano , Cavaco Branca M.
Published: September 2024

The genetic basis of nonsyndromic familial nonmedullary thyroid carcinoma (FNMTC) is still poorly understood, as the susceptibility genes identified so far only account for a small percentage of the genetic burden. Recently, germline mutations in DNA repair‐related genes have been reported in cases with thyroid cancer. In order to clarify the genetic basis of FNMTC, 94 genes involved in hereditary cancer predisposition, including DNA repair genes, were analyzed in 48 probands from FNMTC families, through targeted next‐generation sequencing (NGS). Genetic variants were selected upon bioinformatics analysis and in silico studies. Structural modeling and network analysis were also performed. In silico results of NGS data unveiled likely pathogenic germline variants in 15 families with FNMTC, in genes encoding proteins involved in DNA repair (ATM, CHEK2, ERCC2, BRCA2, ERCC4, FANCA, FANCD2, FANCF, and PALB2) and in the DICER1, FLCN, PTCH1, BUB1B, and RHBDF2 genes. Structural modeling predicted that most missense variants resulted in the disruption of networks of interactions between residues, with implications for local secondary and tertiary structure elements. Functional annotation and network analyses showed that the involved DNA repair proteins functionally interact with each other, within the same DNA repair pathway and across different pathways. MAPK activation was a common event in tumor progression. This study supports that rare germline variants in DNA repair genes may be accountable for FNMTC susceptibility, with potential future utility in patients' clinical management, and reinforces the relevance of DICER1 in disease etiology.
Asiaticoside protected brain injury in hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage via activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway
Authors: Wang Jicun , Wang Jianxin
Published: September 2024

Hypertensive intracerebral hemorrhage (HICH) is a destructive disease with high mortality, incidence, and disability. Asiaticoside (AC) is a triterpenoid derivative that has demonstrated to exert a protective effect on neuron and blood vessel. To investigate the function and potential mechanism of AC on HICH. Human brain microvascular endothelial cells (hBMECs) were treated with 20 U/mL thrombin for 24 h to establish the HICH model in vitro, and AC with the concentration of 1, 2 and 4 µM were used to incubate hBMECs. The effect and potential mechanism of AC on HICH were investigated by using cell counting kit‐8, flow cytometry, tube forming assays, vascular permeability experiments and western blot assays. In vivo, rats were injected with 20 µL hemoglobin with a concentration of 150 mg/mL, and then intragastrically administrated with 1.25, 2.5 and 5 mg/kg AC. Behavioral tests, brain water content measurement, hematoxylin‐eosin (HE) staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP) nick end labeling assays, and western blot were used to assess the effect and potential mechanism of AC on HICH. AC (at 2 and 4 µM) improved the proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and vascular permeability in thrombin‐induced hBMECs (p < 0.05). Besides, AC (2.5 and 5 mg/kg) ameliorated behavioral scores, brain water content, pathological lesion, apoptosis and the expression of vascular permeability‐related proteins in rats with HICH (p < 0.05). In addition, AC elevated the expression of PI3K/AKT pathway after HICH both in cell and animal models (p < 0.05). Application of LY294002, an inhibitor of PI3K/AKT pathway, reversed the ameliorative effect of AC on the proliferation, apoptosis, angiogenesis and vascular permeability in thrombin‐induced hBMECs (p < 0.05). AC reduced brain damage by increasing the expression of the PI3K/AKT pathway after HICH.
Removable edges in near‐bipartite bricks
Authors: Zhang Yipei , Lu Fuliang , Wang Xiumei , Yuan Jinjiang
Published: September 2024

An edge of a matching covered graph is removable if is also matching covered. The notion of removable edge arises in connection with ear decompositions of matching covered graphs introduced by Lovász and Plummer. A nonbipartite matching covered graph is a brick if it is free of nontrivial tight cuts. Carvalho, Lucchesi and Murty proved that every brick other than and has at least removable edges. A brick is near‐bipartite if it has a pair of edges such that is a bipartite matching covered graph. In this paper, we show that in a near‐bipartite brick with at least six vertices, every vertex of , except at most six vertices of degree three contained in two disjoint triangles, is incident with at most two nonremovable edges; consequently, has at least removable edges. Moreover, all graphs attaining this lower bound are characterized.
Paul Ekman and the search for the isolated face in the 1960s
Authors: Kim Heewon
Published: September 2024

This essay examines the detailed process of isolating facial data from the context of its emergence through the early work of psychologist Paul Ekman in the 1960s. It explores how Ekman's data practices have been developed, criticized, and compromised by situating them within the political and intellectual landscape of his early career. This essay follows Ekman's journey from the Langley Porter Neuropsychiatric Institute to New Guinea, highlighting his brief but notable collaborations with psychologist Charles E. Osgood and NIH researchers D. Carleton Gajdusek and E. Richard Sorenson. It argues that the different meanings assigned to the human face resulted in how each group developed their studies – examining facial expressions either in interaction, where they shape reciprocal actions in interpersonal communication, or in isolation, where faces surface from the individual's unconscious interior.