bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical phenotype and β-cell autoimmunity in Italian patients with adult-onset diabetes
Authors: Genovese S , Bazzigaluppi E , Gonçalves D , Ciucci A , Cavallo M G , Purrello F , Anello M , Rotella C M , Bardini G , Vaccaro O , Riccardi G , Travaglini P , Morenghi E , Bosi E , Pozzilli P
Published: February 2006

Objective: To characterize the phenotype of a large population of Italian patients with adult onset (≥40 years) diabetes who were attending outpatient clinics and who were screened for glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 autoantibodies (GADA), protein tyrosine phosphatase IA-2 (IA-2A) and IA-2β/phogrin (IA-2βA).

Design and methods: This was a cross-sectional study comprising a total of 881 patients, aged ≤ 70 years, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after the age of 40 years, and consecutively recruited in five clinics located in different geographic areas of Italy (Milan, Florence, Rome, Naples and Catania). Their mean disease duration was 8.1 (6.9;s.d.) years. GADA, IA-2A and IA-2βA were measured with radiobinding assays within vitrotranslated S-methionine-labelled glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) or IA-2 or IA-2β. Anthropometric and clinical data were collected and compared amongst patients with or without autoantibodies.

Results: Sixty-three (7.1%) patients had one or more autoantibodies, 58 (6.6%) had GADA, 22 (2.5%) had IA-2A, six (0.7%) had IA-2βA and 19 (2.15%) had two or more autoantibodies. IA-2A or IA-2βA, in the absence of GADA, were found in only five patients. Autoantibody-positive patients were more often female (63.5 vs 36.5%;P< 0.009), had higher glycated haemoglobin (Hb A1c) (P< 0.001), lower body mass index (BMI;P< 0.0005) and waist/hip ratio (WHR;P< 0.01); female gender being the main contributor to BMI and WHR. We did not observe any differences in age at diagnosis or duration of disease with respect to the presence or absence of islet autoantibodies. The proportion of patients on insulin therapy was higher in patients with two or more antibodies, compared with those with one antibody only, and no antibodies (Pfor trend < 0.001), and among patients with GADA, in those with higher antibody titre (73.9% in those with > 10 units vs 42.0% in those with ≤ 10 units;P< 0.007).

Conclusions: Patients with adult onset diabetes characterized by autoimmunity to β-cells showed a clinical phenotype with anthropometric features that differed from those classically observed in patients with type 2 diabetes. The number and titre of autoantibodies, which reflect the severity of autoimmunity and β-cell impairment, amplified this difference. The usefulness of autoantibody screening in adult-onset diabetes is further emphasized by these findings.
Natural Infections of Wild Creek Chubs and Cultured Fathead Minnow by Chinese Grass Carp Reovirus (Golden Shiner Virus)
Authors: Goodwin A. E. , Nayak D. K. , Bakal R. S.
Published: February 2006

Wild creek chubs Semotilus atromaculatus and farmed fathead minnow Pimephales promelas were cultured for viruses on epithelioma papulosum cyprini and fathead minnow cells. A syncytia-forming virus was isolated from creek chubs and both healthy and moribund fathead minnow with skin and visceral lesions. The isolates were positive by a reverse-transcriptase−polymerase chain reaction assay that amplifies segments 1 and 2 of Chinese grass carp reovirus (CGRV; also known as golden shiner virus and grass carp hemorrhagic virus). Sequencing of the amplicons showed that the isolates were 93–99% identical to each other and to North American CGRV isolates from grass carp Ctenopharyngodon idella and golden shiners Notemigonus crysoleucas and 87–93% identical to grass carp isolates from China. Homologies to other fish reoviruses were only 3–42%.
A Pond Evaluation of Habituation as a Means to Reduce Initial Mortality Associated with Poststocking Predation of Hatchery-Reared Largemouth Bass
Authors: Schlechte J. Warren , Buckmeier David L.
Published: February 2006

We investigated whether habituation (i.e., allowing fish to become accustomed to their new environment) and habitat complexity affected poststocking predation of hatchery-reared fingerling Florida largemouth bass Micropterus salmoides floridanus stocked in research ponds containing high densities of predators. We found that in open-water habitat, habituation for 60 min before release significantly (|t44| ≥ 2.13; P ≤ 0.039) reduced predation. In the presence of complex habitat (i.e., stem density > 250 stems/m2), overall predation was reduced but habituation failed to further reduce predation (|t44| ≥ 0.13; P ≤ 0.899). Habituation appears to be a feasible method for reducing predation at release locations with little to no structurally complex habitat and high predator densities.
Genetic Analysis of Wild Lake Trout Embryos Recovered from Lake Michigan
Authors: DeKoning Jenefer , Keatley Kimberly , Phillips Ruth , Rhydderch James , Janssen John , Noakes Marc
Published: February 2006

The Mid‐Lake Reef Complex (MLRC) is a large area of deep reefs that separate the two main basins of Lake Michigan. In an attempt to evaluate which of several strains of lake trout Salvelinus namaycush stocked in Lake Michigan are actively spawning at the MLRC, eggs that had been deposited by spawning lake trout were collected at three sites on East Reef. These eggs were incubated and shown to be viable and capable of developing to the emergent fry stage. The samples were genotyped at four microsatellite loci, and a proportional admixture analysis was performed to estimate the genetic contribution of the four predominant lake trout hatchery strains used to stock the MLRC. These estimates were then compared with the abundance of each strain stocked since 1985. The point admixture estimates indicated unequal spawning success among strains in the wild. Specifically, the Seneca Lake strain appeared to be the most successful, while the Lewis Lake strain was the least successful and may not be spawning in the wild. The implications for conservation management are also discussed.
Pandemics, Avian Influenza A (H5N1), and a Strategy for Pharmacists
Authors: Ford Stephen M. , Grabenstein John D.
Published: February 2006

Epidemics of influenza occur annually and account for more morbidity in the developed world than all other respiratory diseases combined. On average, 36,000 Americans die from influenza or its complications each year. Pandemics occur when influenza viruses undergo either antigenic drift or antigenic shift that results in a new viral strain that infects humans, when they are capable of sustained transmission from person‐to‐person, and when they are introduced in populations with little or no preexisting immunity. The influenza pandemic of 1918 caused an estimated 20–40 million deaths worldwide. An avian influenza A (H5N1) virus, currently circulating in Asia, has pandemic potential. However, no evidence currently exists that a pandemic is occurring. Pharmacists are uniquely positioned to initiate near‐term practice changes that may positively impact both seasonal and potential pandemic morbidity and mortality. Pharmacists must be immunization advocates and provide pharmaceutical care that includes evaluation of immunization status. Increasing immunization to prevent invasive pneumococcal disease, as well as seasonal influenza immunization, is encouraged. A pandemic vaccine represents the most effective strategy to mitigate the effects of a pandemic. Antiviral agents represent a treatment bridge until a pandemic‐specific vaccine is available. The neuraminidase inhibitors oseltamivir and zanamivir are active against H5N1, although oseltamivir resistance has been reported. Advances in vaccine research, development, and production through the use of reverse‐genetics systems represent the most effective technology to rapidly produce a pandemic influenza vaccine.
Combination of Clopidogrel and Statins: A Hypothetical Interaction or Therapeutic Dilemma?
Authors: Tafreshi Mohammad J. , Zagnoni Laura G. , Gentry Elmer J.
Published: February 2006

Background. The 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) and clopidogrel are frequently used in the treatment of patients with various cardiovascular disorders. The possibility of a drug‐drug interaction between certain statins and clopidogrel has been extensively investigated in the literature recently. Investigators have proposed that the use of statins that are metabolized by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) system may diminish the conversion of clopidogrel to its active form by inhibiting the CYP3A4 isoenzyme. This inhibition could result in a decreased antiplatelet effect of clopidogrel, which could translate into an increased risk of cardiovascular events.

Methods. We performed a MEDLINE search of the literature from 1993–2005 to evaluate and discuss the existing data on a possible interaction between clopidogrel and statins and to provide clinicians with relevant and practical recommendations. Additional studies were identified from the bibliographies of the reviewed literature.

Results. Several articles were discovered that discuss this potential drug‐drug interaction. Whereas some studies indicated that there was not a relevant interaction between statins and clopidogrel, other studies demonstrated that the concomitant administration of some statins with clopidogrel resulted in diminished platelet inhibition activity of clopidogrel.

Conclusions. Although the interaction between certain statins and clopidogrel seems to be a pharmacologic certainty, the clinical relevance of this interaction needs further clarification. While investigators continue to evaluate the clinical relevance, we provide several recommendations for clinicians responsible for treating patients who require combination therapy with statins and clopidogrel.
Ziconotide Infusion for Severe Chronic Pain: Case Series of Patients with Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Wermeling Daniel P. , Berger Joseph R.
Published: February 2006

Ziconotide intrathecal infusion was recently approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of intractable severe chronic pain. Patients with neuropathic pain make up a significant population among those who experience chronic pain for which there are less than optimal pharmacotherapeutic options. Published clinical trials provide a global view of ziconotide efficacy and safety. A subset of patients in clinical trials obtained complete pain relief, a remarkable finding given the history of drug treatment for neuropathic pain. To provide more information regarding those who respond to ziconotide therapy we discuss three patients with neuropathic pain who received ziconotide infusion. Two patients with longstanding neuropathic pain, one with complex regional pain syndrome (formerly known as reflex sympathetic dystrophy) of the leg and one with lumbar radiculitis, achieved temporary but complete pain relief from single 5‐ and 10‐μg epidural test doses. In the third case, a patient with longstanding bilateral leg and foot neuropathic pain from acquired immunodeficiency syndrome and antiretroviral drug therapy achieved considerable pain relief from a long‐term continuous intrathecal infusion. The patients who received a single dose had mild central nervous system adverse effects such as sedation, somnolence, nausea, headache, and lightheadedness. The patient who received the intrathecal infusion experienced mild‐to‐severe adverse effects depending on the rate of infusion; these effects included sedation, confusion, memory impairment, slurred speech, and double vision. This patient could sense impending adverse effects and made rate adjustments or suspended infusion to avert untoward symptoms. In all three cases, patients achieved considerable pain relief that was long‐lasting and persisted well after dose administration or suspension of infusion.
A Case of Unilateral Coronal Synostosis in a Child with Craniofacial Microsomia
Authors: Terry Michael J. , Ascherman Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2006

Craniofacial microsomia is a congenital malformation complex associated with a wide array of craniofacial and extracraniofacial anomalies. Frontal plagiocephaly has been shown to occur in approximately 5% to 12% of patients with craniofacial microsomia. The etiology of craniofacial microsomia–associated frontal plagiocephaly is unclear; of the cases described in the literature, all but one had physical findings suggestive of deformational plagiocephaly. In the case with equivocal physical findings, radiographic studies showed no evidence of craniosynostosis. Unlike the above cases, we report a documented case of radiologically-confirmed unilateral coronal synostosis in a child with craniofacial microsomia.
Crinoid columnal associations and sequence stratigraphy architecture: the Le Faou Formation, Lower Devonian of the Massif armoricain (France)
Authors: Botquelen Arnaud , Le Menn Jean , Gourvennec Rémy , Loi Alfredo
Published: February 2006

Crinoid columnals are major macrobenthic components of the Lower Devonian faunas of the Massif armoricain particularly in the Seillou section. Three crinoid columnal associations have been delineated based on R and Q-mode cluster analysis. Distribution of these associations is correlated to the sequence stratigraphic architecture, showing the close relationships between crinoid columnal association dynamics and relative sea-level variations. Comparing the distribution of benthic associations, we note a lesser diversity in crinoid columnal associations than in brachiopod ones. Crinoids (high-level suspension feeders) seem to occupy broader specialised niches than brachiopods (reclining and low-level suspension feeders) and are characterised by a different ecological space utilisation.
Search for proteins with similarity to the CFTR R domain using an optimized RDBMS solution, mBioSQL
Authors: Hegedűs Tamás , Riordan John
Published: February 2006

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) comprises ATP binding and transmembrane domains, and a unique regulatory (R) domain not found in other ATP binding cassette proteins. Phosphorylation of the R domain at different sites by PKA and PKC is obligatory for the chloride channel function of CFTR. Sequence similarity searches on the R domain were uninformative. Furthermore, R domains from different species show low sequence similarity. Since these R domains resemble each other only in the location of the phosphorylation sites, we generated different R domain patterns masking amino acids between these sites. Because of the high number of the generated patterns we expected a large number of matches from the UniProt database. Therefore, a relational database management system (RDBMS) was set up to handle the results. During the software development our system grew into a general package which we term Modular BioSQL (mBioSQL). It has higher performance than other solutions and presents a generalized method for the storage of biological result-sets in RDBMS allowing convenient further analysis. Application of this approach revealed that the R domain phosphorylation pattern is most similar to those in nuclear proteins, including transcription and splicing factors.
Fatty Acid Intake and Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Biomarkers and Risk of Total Knee or Hip Arthroplasty Among Older Women in the Women's Health Initiative
Authors: Orchard Tonya , McLaughlin Eric , Winschel Timothy , Shadyab Aladdin , Laddu Deepika , Vitolins Mara , Constantinescu Florina , Jackson Rebecca
Published: February 2024

Objective

The objective was to determine whether baseline fatty acid intake and erythrocyte omega‐3 and omega‐6 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) can predict risk of total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) in older women.

Methods

This was a prospective analysis of 34,990 women in the Women's Health Initiative. Dietary fatty acids were estimated from food frequency questionnaires. Imputed erythrocyte PUFAs were available in a subcohort of 3,428 women. Arthroplasty (THA and TKA), used as a surrogate of severe osteoarthritis, was identified via linked Medicare data. Cox proportional hazards models were constructed to estimate risk of arthroplasty.

Results

Risk of THA was associated with higher intake of arachidonic acid, (multivariable hazard ratio [HR] quartile 4 [Q4] vs Q1: 1.16; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–1.34; P = 0.03) and higher intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; HR Q4 vs Q1: 1.20; 95% CI 1.05–1.39; P = 0.003). There was a linear trend (P = 0.04) for patients to have a higher risk of THA with higher erythrocyte EPA and DHA in body mass index–adjusted models; however, there was no significant difference in patients who had THAs by quartiles of erythrocyte EPA and DHA (P = 0.10). Dietary fatty acids and erythrocyte PUFAs were not significantly associated with risk of TKA.

Conclusion

Higher baseline intakes of arachidonic acid and EPA and DHA were associated with a modestly higher risk of THA. No association was found between fatty acids and patients who had TKAs. Further research in populations with direct measures of osteoarthritis severity is needed to better understand the importance of PUFAs in modulating osteoarthritis and arthroplasty risk.
Multi‐model predictive control of converter inlet temperature in the process of acid production with flue gas
Authors: Liu Minghua , Li Xiaoli , Wang Kang , Liu Zhiqiang , Li Guihai
Published: February 2024

The smelting of non‐ferrous metals produces substantial quantities of sulfur dioxide (SO)‐laden flue gas, which is seriously harmful to environment and humans. To improve the conversion ratio of SO and minimize environmental pollution, controlling converter inlet temperature during acid production has proven to be an efficient approach. However, unsteadiness of smelting procedure leads to frequent changes in the concentration of SO, which affects the catalytic conversion of SO and the production of sulfuric acid. To regulate converter inlet temperature, a proposed method of multi‐model predictive control is introduced. First, working conditions are divided and characterized according to the range of SO concentration. Then, the mathematical model is established for each working condition and the model predictive controller is designed. Finally, an effective switching mechanism is established to realize smooth switching under different working conditions and closed‐loop control of the whole system. Through simulation validation, compared with traditional single‐model predictive controllers and multi‐model PID controllers, the proposed approach demonstrates improved transient performance and steady‐state performance. Simulation outcomes clearly highlight the superiority of the proposed algorithm.
Dual One and Two‐Photon Solvent‐Free Hybrid Photoresist for High‐Resolution and Grayscale 3D Microprinting
Authors: Chía Gómez Laura Piedad , Pitrat Delphine , Bretonnière Yann , Borondics Ferenc , Banyasz Akos , Parola Stephane , Santanach Carreras Enric
Published: February 2024

Additive manufacturing holds a strong promise to revolutionize industry. Fabricating high‐resolution and large objects with specific physical properties remains a critical challenge. In this direction, innovation in both chemical processing and 3D‐printing techniques are needed. Here, a solvent‐free hybrid organic‐inorganic photoresist combining a radical photoinitiator and a photobase generator is photostructured by grayscale lithography and direct laser writing using both one‐ and two‐photon absorption. Infrared spectroscopy suggests that one‐photon absorption activates the photoinitiator and leads to radical polymerization of organic moieties, triggering silanol condensation in a synergetic way. In contrast, upon two‐photon absorption, the driving force of polymer formation is the photobase‐induced silanol condensation. The proposed approach produces both large area and high‐resolution 3D structures upon one‐ and two‐photon absorption induced polymerization, respectively. This new paradigm paves the way toward the efficient fabrication of on‐demand devices for personalized health care, microfluidics, or microoptics.
Endoplasmic Reticulum‐Targeting Iridium(III) Nanosonosensitizer Amplifies Immunogenic Cell Death for Boosted Tumor Sono‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Xu Xiaoyu , Chen Meixu , Jiang Shan , Pan Zhengyin , Zhao Chunshun
Published: February 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in sonodynamic therapy (SDT) can elicit immunogenic cell death (ICD)‐initiated antitumor immunity for augmented sono‐immunotherapy. However, unsatisfactory sonodynamic activity and mediocre ER stress induction ability of sonosensitizers essentially restrict SDT efficacy and ICD stimulation. Herein, a versatile ER‐targeting Iridium(III) nanosonosensitizer is developed as superior ICD inducer for boosted tumor sono‐immunotherapy. An ingenious cholic acid (CA)‐functionalized Iridium(III) sonosensitizer Ir‐CA is well‐designed and skillfully crosslinked with human serum albumin (HSA) to form nanosonosensitizer HSA@Ir‐CA. With high stability, favorable tumor‐targeting ability, and reduction‐responsiveness, HSA@Ir‐CA preferentially accumulates in tumor sites for enhanced cellular uptake, followed by rapid disassembly responding to intracellular reductive environment. The uncaged Ir‐CA can selectively accumulate in ER and precisely disrupt ER with in situ produced type I and II ROS upon US irradiation for a high‐efficiency SDT. Moreover, the maximized ER stress eminently amplifies ICD to evoke robust systemic antitumor immunity, inhibiting the growths of primary/distant tumor, lung metastasis, and tumor recurrence. This ER‐targeting SDT combined with immune checkpoint inhibitor (αPD‐L1) further achieves reinforced therapeutic outcome against immunologically “cold” tumor. The study presents an effective paradigm to optimize SDT efficacy and amplify ICD‐initiated immune responses for boosted sono‐immunotherapy.
Acupoint Therapy with Injectable, Pro‐Healing Stem Cell‐Loaded Hydrogel Microspheres Promotes Skin Wound Healing
Authors: Yan Yinqiu , Chen Liling , Zheng Liwen , Wang Gen , Zhang Hongmei , Feng Xing , Liu Yaxian , Li Lan , Zhang Yu Shrike , Ji Ping , Zhang Ximu
Published: February 2024

Wound repair is a complex and dynamic process, involving stages of hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Standard methods currently used for clinical treatment of skin defects remain unsatisfying and alternative treatments have emerged including acupuncture mostly relying on the conventional needle method. It is applied sustained acupuncture therapy with bioengineered stem cell‐loaded hydrogel microspheres (A‐SGC), where the data gathered through transcriptomics, metabolomics, and single‐cell omics analyses are used to construct a comprehensive multi‐omics map underlying the wound regeneration process with such a therapy. Under the treatment of A‐SGC, the interactions and Yin‐Yang balance among fibroblasts, macrophages, endothelial cells, and keratinocytes facilitated skin regeneration instead of scarred healing. The genes related to the promotion of matrix synthesis and re‐epithelialization played important roles in the transition from the inflammatory granulation phase to the stromal remodeling phase. This convergence use of hydrogel microspheres, stem cells, and sustained acupuncture therapy could have previously unattainable therapeutic implications for improved wound treatment.
Quasi‐MOF‐Engineered MnOx/CeBTC Multinanozyme as a Robust Self‐Cascade ROS Generator toward Antibacterial Face Mask
Authors: Meng Yuqi , Han Ruiting , Tian Qing , Chen Yao , Zhang Lianbing
Published: February 2024

It is of great importance to endow personal protective equipments with bactericidal property combating against infected pathogens. Nanozyme that can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) in an enzyme‐catalytic manner is regarded as a novel and promising nanobactericide. But until now, very rare of them is designed specifically for personal protective equipments. In this study, a multinanozyme of manganese oxide supported on Ce‐containing MOF (CeBTC) is constructed with post‐engineering via a quasi‐metal‐organic framework (MOF) strategy (denoted as MnOx/q‐CeBTC). The strategy enables a full exposure of the metal cluster nodes, introduction of new active Mn─O─Ce bonds and strengthens interaction between the metal nodes and the guest oxide. As an advanced multinanozyme, the MnOx/q‐CeBTC exhibits excellent multiple enzymatic activities at low temperature, and enables abundant and self‐cascade ROS generation without H2O2 addition. This empowers it with high efficiency in bacteria killing, which is also reflected when incorporated into face mask to combat against pathogen invasion even at low temperature. The results achieved in this work provide guidance for rational design of effective bactericide based on nanozyme and broaden their application in personal protective equipment and other fields.
Truly Tiny Acoustic Biomolecules for Ultrasound Imaging and Therapy
Authors: Ling Bill , Gungoren Bilge , Yao Yuxing , Dutka Przemysław , Vassallo Reid , Nayak Rohit , Smith Cameron A. B. , Lee Justin , Swift Margaret B. , Shapiro Mikhail G.
Published: February 2024

Nanotechnology offers significant advantages for medical imaging and therapy, including enhanced contrast and precision targeting. However, integrating these benefits into ultrasonography is challenging due to the size and stability constraints of conventional bubble‐based agents. Here bicones, truly tiny acoustic contrast agents based on gas vesicles (GVs), a unique class of air‐filled protein nanostructures naturally produced in buoyant microbes, are described. It is shown that these sub‐80 nm particles can be effectively detected both in vitro and in vivo, infiltrate tumors via leaky vasculature, deliver potent mechanical effects through ultrasound‐induced inertial cavitation, and are easily engineered for molecular targeting, prolonged circulation time, and payload conjugation.
Cable Cross‐Tie Triboelectric‐Electromagnetic Hybrid Generator Triggered by Vibrations in Bridge Cables
Authors: Guo Xilin , Liu Shiming , Zhang Tao , Zhu Zhaobin , Meng Lixia
Published: February 2024

Bridge cables exhibit low damping characteristics and are susceptible to external excitations, leading to random vibrations. Therefore, a cable cross‐tie triboelectric‐electromagnetic hybrid generator triggered by vibrations in bridge cables (CCT‐TEHG) is proposed. The CCT‐TEHG enhances the natural frequency of the cables by connecting adjacent cables, thereby preventing low‐frequency resonance. The device connects adjacent bridge cables to increase the natural frequency, preventing low‐frequency resonance. Comprising triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) and electromagnetic generators (EMG), the CCT‐TEHG effectively broadens the frequency range for energy harvesting, capturing vibrational energy from bridge cables in cable‐stayed bridges. The TENG module in CCT‐TEHG features a soft‐contact design, incorporating rabbit fur to supplement charges and enhance output density. This design also avoids direct material contact between generator units, improving operational durability. The experimental results show that the maximum output voltage and current of the TENG and EMG modules can respectively reach up to 270 V, 13 V, and 5.2 µA, 18 mA, and peak power to 2.04 mW, 10 mW. The CCT‐TEHG can function as a power source, sufficient to power 303 light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) or a 20 mW temperature and humidity sensor. Therefore, CCT‐TEHG has good application prospects in the field of bridge cable vibration energy harvest.
InGaN‐Based Whispering Gallery Mode Laser with Lateral Nanoporous Distributed Bragg Reflector Exhibits Superior Mode Selectivity
Authors: Zhao Lixia , Chen Jiawei , Lin Shan , Huang Yuqing , Ge Xiaotian , Wang Ting , Hu Tiangui , Ding Sunan , Wang Kaiyou
Published: February 2024

Whispering gallery mode (WGM) laser with single‐mode is important for optoelectronic applications because of the higher stability during the light signal transmission. But till now, for InGaN‐based WGM laser, most reports of lasing behavior are multimode lasing. To achieve single‐mode WGM laser, an InGaN‐based micro‐ring laser is proposed and demonstrated with lateral nanoporous distributed Bragg reflector (DBR), where the high‐order lasing modes are strongly suppressed. The side mode suppression ratio (SMSR) is more than 9 times larger than that of the micro‐disk laser with the same radius. Combined with FDTD simulation, the results show that the enhancements are originated from the suppression of the high‐order resonant mode because of the inner boundary of micro‐ring. This work provides a new solution to achieve stable single‐mode WGM laser for future photonic integration.
Polydisperse particle inline image method and its application onto gas–liquid flow in a stirred tank
Authors: Wang Haoliang , Yang Li , Li Xiangyang , Cheng Jingcai , Yang Chao
Published: February 2024

Bubbles of different sizes exhibit distinct hydrodynamic behaviors and their dense coexistence complicates seriously the multiphase flow. The commonly‐used arithmetic average method (e.g., PIV) treats every bubble equally and consequently erases many physical details. In this study, a polydisperse particle inline image method is developed to simultaneously measure comprehensive feature set of every bubble in bubble swarms and carrier phase velocity. By harnessing the optimal frame rate capture alongside assigning IDs for tracking, complete identification of polydisperse swarm in single frame is integrated with the accurate acquisition of transient dynamics across multiple frames. In gas–liquid stirred tanks, the bubble deformation is notably intensified owing to the presence of collisions driven by velocity differences. A novel analysis of bubble hydrodynamics decomposed by bubble size reveals they are jointly commanded by the inertial effect and size effect. Actual flow regime of the system is essentially the superposition of multiple dissimilar flow patterns.
Mental health, coping, and protective factors in mothers of children with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome
Authors: McBride Haley , Jhawar Nandini , Boucicaut Laurie , Bearden Carrie E. , Kates Wendy R. , Woolf‐King Sarah E. , Antshel Kevin M.
Published: February 2024

Compared to the large body of maternal mental health research for other pediatric disorders, we know far less about the experience of mothers of children with 22q11DS. This study investigates the coping methods, protective factors, and mental health of this population. These findings might lead to better support for 22q11DS maternal mental health. An international sample of 71 mothers (M = 40.5 years) of children with 22q11DS (M = 9.2 years) was recruited and completed an online survey assessing maternal mental health (symptoms of depression, anxiety, traumatic stress, general stress, and alcohol consumption), coping methods, and mental health protective factors (social support, dyadic adjustment, parenting competence). Maternal ratings of child mental health symptoms were also obtained. Mothers' self‐report revealed a high percentage who screened positive for elevated levels of general stress (69%), hazardous alcohol consumption (30.9%), traumatic stress (33.8%), anxiety (26.8%), and depression (26.8%). After controlling for demographic variables and child mental health symptoms, maternal self‐reported maladaptive coping methods were positively associated with maternal symptoms of depression, anxiety, stress, and traumatic stress. Reducing maladaptive coping methods may be a promising intervention for improving mental health in mothers of children with 22q11DS.
Dietary flexibility of the greater bamboo lemur (Prolemur simus), a specialized feeder, in eastern Madagascar
Authors: Mihaminekena T. Hasimija , Rakotonanahary Ando N. , Frasier Cynthia L. , Randriahaingo Hery N. T. , Sefczek Timothy M. , Tinsman Jen , Randrianarimanana H. Lucien , Ravaloharimanitra Maholy , Rakotoarinivo Toky Hery , Ratsimbazafy Jonah , King Tony , Louis Edward E.
Published: February 2024

The degree of dietary flexibility in primates is species specific; some incorporate a wider array of resources than others. Extreme interannual weather variability in Madagascar results in seasonal resource scarcity which has been linked to specialized behaviors in lemurs. Prolemur simus, for example, has been considered an obligate specialist on large culm bamboo with >60% of its diet composed of woody bamboos requiring morphological and physiological adaptations to process. Recent studies reported an ever‐expanding list of dietary items, suggesting that this species may not be an obligate specialist. However, long‐term quantitative feeding data are unavailable across this species’ range. To explore the dietary flexibility of P. simus, we collected data at two northern sites, Ambalafary and Sahavola, and one southern site, Vatovavy, from September 2010 to January 2016 and May 2017 to September 2018, respectively. In total, we recorded 4022 h of behavioral data using instantaneous sampling of adult males and females from one group in Ambalafary, and two groups each in Sahavola and Vatovavy. We recorded 45 plant species eaten by P. simus over 7 years. We also observed significant differences in seasonal dietary composition between study sites. In Ambalafary, bamboo was the most frequently observed resource consumed (92.2%); however, non‐bamboo resources comprised nearly one‐third of the diet of P. simus in Sahavola and over 60% in Vatovavy. Consumption of all bamboo resources increased during the dry season at Ambalafary and during the wet season at Vatovavy, but never exceeded non‐bamboo feeding at the latter. Culm pith feeding was only observed at Ambalafary, where it was more common during the dry season. We identify P. simus as a bamboo facultative specialist capable of adjusting its feeding behavior to its environment, indicating greater dietary flexibility than previously documented, which may enable the species to survive in increasingly degraded habitats.
O‐Trifluoromethylation of Carboxylic Acids via the Formation and Activation of Acyloxy(phenyl)trifluoromethyl‐λ3‐Iodanes
Authors: Zhu Hongye , Gao Chi , Yu Ting , Xu Cong , Wang Mang
Published: February 2024

Here we report the challenging O‐trifluoromethylation of carboxylic acids via the formation and activation of acyloxy(phenyl)trifluoromethyl‐λ3‐iodanes. The method provides an easy access to various potentially valuable and hitherto elusive trifluoromethyl carboxylic esters. A remarkably wide range of substrates with commonly encountered functional groups are compatible with this reaction, including aromatic and aliphatic carboxylic acids, as well as Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved drugs and pharmaceutically relevant molecules. The reaction mechanism and the origins of the enhanced reactivity by zinc chloride (ZnCl2) were discussed from experimental evidence and density functional theory (DFT) calculation.
Connections to the Electrodes Control the Transport Mechanism in Single‐Molecule Transistors
Authors: Chen Zhixin , Woltering Steffen L. , Limburg Bart , Tsang Ming‐Yee , Baugh Jonathan , Briggs G. Andrew D. , Mol Jan A. , Anderson Harry L. , Thomas James. O.
Published: February 2024

When designing a molecular electronic device for a specific function, it is necessary to control whether the charge‐transport mechanism is phase‐coherent transmission or particle‐like hopping. Here we report a systematic study of charge transport through single zinc‐porphyrin molecules embedded in graphene nanogaps to form transistors, and show that the transport mechanism depends on the chemistry of the molecule–electrode interfaces. We show that van der Waals interactions between molecular anchoring groups and graphene yield transport characteristic of Coulomb blockade with incoherent sequential hopping, whereas covalent molecule–electrode amide bonds give intermediately or strongly coupled single‐molecule devices that display coherent transmission. These findings demonstrate the importance of interfacial engineering in molecular electronic circuits.
Enhancing Ni/Co Activity by Neighboring Pt Atoms in NiCoP/MXene Electrocatalyst for Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Niu Hua‐Jie , Huang Chuanxue , Sun Tong , Fang Zhen , Ke Xiaoxing , Zhang Ruimin , Ran Nian , Wu Jianbo , Liu Jianjun , Zhou Wei
Published: February 2024

Density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate neighboring Pt atoms can enhance the metal activity of NiCoP for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). However, it remains a great challenge to link Pt and NiCoP. Herein, we introduced curvature of bowl‐like structure to construct Pt/NiCoP interface by adding a minimal 1 ‰‐molar‐ratio Pt. The as‐prepared sample only requires an overpotential of 26.5 and 181.6 mV to accordingly achieve the current density of 10 and 500 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH. The water dissociation energy barrier (Ea) has a ~43 % decrease compared with NiCoP counterpart. It also shows an ultrahigh stability with a small degradation rate of 10.6 μV h−1 at harsh conditions (500 mA cm−2 and 50 °C) after 3000 hrs. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), soft X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (sXAS), and X‐ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) verify the interface electron transfer lowers the valence state of Co/Ni and activates them. DFT calculations also confirm the catalytic transition step of NiCoP can change from Heyrovsky (2.71 eV) to Tafel step (0.51 eV) in the neighborhood of Pt, in accord with the result of the improved Hads at the interface disclosed by in situ electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) tests.
Solvothermal single‐pot synthesis of Pd‐Fe3O4@GO catalyst: Enhanced catalytic performance in Sonogashira coupling reactions
Authors: Pawar Mahesh A. , Nakhate Akhil V. , Kadu Samidha S. , Tekade Pradip V.
Published: February 2024

In this study, we present a new approach to synthesizing a magnetically separable Pd‐Fe3O4@GO catalyst using a simple single‐pot method. The catalyst was employed in Sonogashira coupling reactions, demonstrating excellent results. The catalyst was studied using a various characterization method, including X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscope–energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS) mapping, TEM, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), FTIR, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). Pd‐Fe3O4@GO exhibited superior catalytic activity compared with its conventional counterparts in phenylacetylene‐iodobenzene coupling reactions under copper co‐catalyzed‐free and ligand‐free conditions, with a higher turnover frequency (TOF) of 118.3 h−1. Optimized conditions yielded high yields for various substrates, including inactive aryl chloride and bromide substrates, emphasizing its versatility. Also, a reaction mechanism was proposed and a kinetic model was developed. The catalyst's green chemistry potential was highlighted because of its high efficiency, purity of products, recoverability, and ease of preparation. Moreover, Pd‐Fe3O4@GO demonstrated impressive stability through multiple recycling rounds without loss of functionality, making it a promising tool for sustainable chemical processes.
Electrospinning of biopolymer nanofibers encapsulated with functional nanoparticles toward core‐shell fluorescence encoding
Authors: Abd El‐Lateef Hany M. , Khalaf Mai. M. , Abou Taleb Manal F. , Gouda Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Photochromism has been an efficient approach to improve authenticity of commercial products. In order to prepare an authentication nanofibrous film with mechanical reliability, it has been crucial to improve the engineering production route of the authentication materials. Herein, we electrospun photoluminescent nanofibrous film with a fiber diameter of 50–200 nm from the environmentally‐friendly polylactic acid embedded with nanoparticles of rare‐earth activated strontium aluminate (NRESA; 10–15 nm). The created nanocomposite film was colorless in daylight, and became an intense green in ultraviolet light. The strontium aluminate photochromic agent must be applied in the nanoparticle form to ensure film transparency by enhancing its dispersion without aggregation in the electrospun polylactic acid nanofiber bulk. An emission peak was observed at 518 nm after excitation of the pigment‐polylactic acid nanofibers at 365 nm. Raising NRESA ratio increased the hydrophobic properties of the pigment‐polylactic acid nanofibers without changing their visual or mechanical properties. The transparent films showed high photochromic reversibility without exhaustion under numerous exposure cycles of ultraviolet light and darkness. The nanofibrous mats were elastic and flexible. The current technique is an effective strategy for making a variety of anti‐counterfeiting substances.
Synthesis of full bio‐based, fast degradable, and high strength copolyesters: Poly(butylene succinate‐sebacicate‐salicylicate‐malicate)
Authors: Chen Yezhong , Pan Kaibo , Fei Xuan , Fan Youkun , Mai Kaijin , Jiao Jian , Zeng Xiangbin , Fu Qiang , Li Jianjun
Published: February 2024

The presence of petroleum‐based monomers in the backbone of poly(butylene succinate‐co‐adipate) (PBSA) restricts its application in light of increasingly stringent environmental regulations. In this study, a novel full bio‐based biodegradable random copolymer poly(butylene succinate‐sebacicate‐salicylicate‐malicate) (PBSSeSa‐c‐M) was designed and synthesized. The comprehensive study encompassed the structural alterations, properties, and degradation resulting from the inclusion of salicylicate sebacicate and malicate units. The incorporation of salicylic acid effectively enhanced the tensile modulus of the copolymer, due to the effect of rigid benzene ring. Meanwhile, the addition of sebacic acid regulated the degradation rate. The introduction of malic acid significantly improved the rheological properties, endowing the copolymer with exceptional processability. The obtained high molecular weight PBSSeSa‐c‐M exhibited outstanding film‐blowing processability with an intrinsic viscosity of 1.58 dL/g and melt flow rate of 7.34 g/10 min. The tensile modulus reaches 235.43 MPa that is comparable to commercial PBSA. Besides, the degradation of PBSSeSa‐c‐M reaches 18.92% over 4 weeks, far higher than that of PBSA. In conclusion, this work provides a design and synthesis for a new kind of biodegradable copolyester that satisfies the requirement of rapid degradation in single‐use plastics.
Dosage‐dependent effects of FGFR2W290R mutation on craniofacial shape and cellular dynamics of the basicranial synchondroses
Authors: Richbourg Heather A. , Vidal‐García Marta , Brakora Katherine A. , Devine Jay , Takenaka Risa , Young Nathan M. , Gong Siew‐Ging , Neves Amanda , Hallgrímsson Benedikt , Marcucio Ralph S.
Published: February 2024

Craniosynostosis is a common yet complex birth defect, characterized by premature fusion of the cranial sutures that can be syndromic or nonsyndromic. With over 180 syndromic associations, reaching genetic diagnoses and understanding variations in underlying cellular mechanisms remains a challenge. Variants of FGFR2 are highly associated with craniosynostosis and warrant further investigation. Using the missense mutation FGFR2W290R, an effective mouse model of Crouzon syndrome, craniofacial features were analyzed using geometric morphometrics across developmental time (E10.5—adulthood, n = 665 total). Given the interrelationship between the cranial vault and basicranium in craniosynostosis patients, the basicranium and synchondroses were analyzed in perinates. Embryonic time points showed minimal significant shape differences. However, hetero‐ and homozygous mutant perinates and adults showed significant differences in shape and size of the cranial vault, face, and basicranium, which were associated with cranial doming and shortening of the basicranium and skull. Although there were also significant shape and size differences associated with the basicranial bones and clear reductions in basicranial ossification in cleared whole‐mount samples, there were no significant alterations in chondrocyte cell shape, size, or orientation along the spheno‐occipital synchondrosis. Finally, shape differences in the cranial vault and basicranium were interrelated at perinatal stages. These results point toward the possibility that facial shape phenotypes in craniosynostosis may result in part from pleiotropic effects of the causative mutations rather than only from the secondary consequences of the sutural defects, indicating a novel direction of research that may shed light on the etiology of the broad changes in craniofacial morphology observed in craniosynostosis syndromes.
Targeting Lewy body dementia with neflamapimod‐rasagiline hybrids
Authors: Albertini Claudia , Petralla Sabrina , Massenzio Francesca , Monti Barbara , Rizzardi Nicola , Bergamini Christian , Uliassi Elisa , Borges Fernanda , Chavarria Daniel , Fricker Gert , Goettert Marcia , Kronenberger Thales , Gehringer Matthias , Laufer Stefan , Bolognesi Maria L.
Published: February 2024

Lewy body dementia (LBD) represents the second most common neurodegenerative dementia but is a quite underexplored therapeutic area. Nepflamapimod (1) is a brain‐penetrant selective inhibitor of the alpha isoform of the mitogen‐activated serine/threonine protein kinase (MAPK) p38α, recently repurposed for LBD due to its remarkable antineuroinflammatory properties. Neuroprotective propargylamines are another class of molecules with a therapeutical potential against LBD. Herein, we sought to combine the antineuroinflammatory core of 1 and the neuroprotective propargylamine moiety into a single molecule. Particularly, we inserted a propargylamine moiety in position 4 of the 2,6‐dichlorophenyl ring of 1, generating neflamapimod‐propargylamine hybrids 3 and 4. These hybrids were evaluated using several cell models, aiming to recapitulate the complexity of LBD pathology through different molecular mechanisms. The N‐methyl‐N‐propargyl derivative 4 showed a nanomolar p38α‐MAPK inhibitory activity (IC50 = 98.7 nM), which is only 2.6‐fold lower compared to that of the parent compound 1, while displaying no hepato‐ and neurotoxicity up to 25 μM concentration. It also retained a similar immunomodulatory profile against the N9 microglial cell line. Gratifyingly, at 5 μM concentration, 4 demonstrated a neuroprotective effect against dexamethasone‐induced reactive oxygen species production in neuronal cells that was higher than that of 1.
Roles of sphingosine‐1‐phosphate in follicle development and oocyte maturation
Authors: Hao Xiaoqiong , Zhang Meijia
Published: February 2024

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), a lipid messenger, propagates its signals by interacting with its intracellular targets or is transported to autocrine/paracrine to activate its cell surface receptors. In the female reproductive system, the homeostasis of S1P plays an important role in ovarian follicular development. Our recent studies show that S1P emerges as a functional mediator of LH‐EGFR signaling from cumulus cells to oocytes: elevating calcium levels in cumulus cells to induce oocyte meiotic maturation, and activating Akt/mTOR cascade reaction to promote oocyte developmental competence. Thus, S1P might be applied to promote oocyte maturation in animals and humans.