bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Learning e‐Skin Respirometer for Pulmonary Disease Detection
Authors: Babu Anand , Kassahun Getnet , Dufour Isabelle , Mandal Dipankar , Thuau Damien
Published: June 2024

Amid the landscape of respiratory health, lung disorders stand out as the primary contributors to pulmonary intricacies and respiratory diseases. Timely precautions through accurate diagnosis hold the key to mitigating their impact. Nevertheless, the existing conventional methods of lungs monitoring exhibit limitations due to bulky instruments, intrusive techniques, manual data recording, and discomfort in continuous measurements. In this context, an unintrusive organic wearable piezoelectric electronic‐skin respirometer (eSR) exhibiting a high‐sensitivity (385 mV N−1), precise conversion factor (12 mL mV−1), high signal‐to‐noise ratio (58 dB), and a low limit of detection down to 100 mL is demonstrated, which is perfectly suitable to record diverse breathing signals. To empower the eSR with early diagnosis functionality, self‐learning capability is further added by integrating the respirometer with the machine learning algorithms. Among various tested algorithms, gradient boosting regression emerges as the most suitable, leveraging sequential model refinement to achieve an accuracy exceeding 95% in detection of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD). From conception to validation, the approach not only provides an alternative pathway for tracking the progression of lung diseases but also has the capability to replace the conventional techniques, with the conformable AI‐empowered respirometer.
Silk Fibroin‐Based Nanoparticles Blended Fluoridated Hydrogel with Photodynamic Antibacterial for Infected Wound Healing
Authors: Liu Zehan , Liu Shengjie , Zhang Ming , Zhu Lei , Zhou LiBo , Hao Bonan , Zhou Guanqing , Wang Cheng , Zhu Chenhui , Ruan Zhengshang , Chen Hong , Liu Feng , Zhang Yongming
Published: June 2024

Traditional approaches for treating wound infections often involve the use of chitosan or hyaluronic acid as carriers for antibacterial agents. In contrast, an innovative method is devised for wound infection management that synergizes photodynamic therapy (PDT) with novel functional matrix materials. This new strategy offers multiple benefits, such as reduced secondary damage to the wound area, a multifaceted antibacterial mechanism, and enhanced moisturization and biocompatibility. The method employs a novel organic semiconductor nanoparticle (OSN) capable of mediating PDT, which is integrated with silk fibroin (SF), perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA), and agar. Silk fibroin is demonstrated to effectively induce macrophage aggregation, while PDT can further activate these immune cells. The inclusion of PFSA bestows the hydrogel with moisturizing and porous characteristics. Both in vivo and in vitro antibacterial assays confirm the efficacy of PDT in eliminating bacteria, and mouse wound infection model studies show that the hydrogels significantly enhance wound healing and hair follicle regeneration. This novel hydrogel dressing holds promise as an advanced wound care solution, with substantial potential for promoting hair follicle regeneration and providing effective sterilization.
Totally Caged Type I Pro‐Photosensitizer for Oxygen‐Independent Synergistic Phototherapy of Hypoxic Tumors
Authors: Zeng Qin , Li Xipeng , Li Jiajun , Shi Mengting , Yao Yufen , Guo Lei , Zhi Na , Zhang Tao
Published: June 2024

Activatable type I photosensitizers are an effective way to overcome the insufficiency and imprecision of photodynamic therapy in the treatment of hypoxic tumors, however, the incompletely inhibited photoactivity of pro‐photosensitizer and the limited oxidative phototoxicity of post‐photosensitizer are major limitations. It is still a great challenge to address these issues using a single and facile design. Herein, a series of totally caged type I pro‐photosensitizers (Pro‐I‐PSs) are rationally developed that are only activated in tumor hypoxic environment and combine two oxygen‐independent therapeutic mechanisms under single‐pulse laser irradiation to enhance the phototherapeutic efficacy. Specifically, five benzophenothiazine‐based dyes modified with different nitroaromatic groups, BPN 1−5, are designed and explored as latent hypoxia‐activatable Pro‐I‐PSs. By comparing their optical responses to nitroreductase (NTR), it is identified that the 2‐methoxy‐4‐nitrophenyl decorated dye (BPN 2) is the optimal Pro‐I‐PSs, which can achieve NTR‐activated background‐free fluorescence/photoacoustic dual‐modality tumor imaging. Furthermore, upon activation, BPN 2 can simultaneously produce an oxygen‐independent photoacoustic cavitation effect and a photodynamic type I process at single‐pulse laser irradiation. Detailed studies in vitro and in vivo indicated that BPN 2 can effectively induce cancer cell apoptosis through synergistic effects. This study provides promising potential for overcoming the pitfalls of hypoxic‐tumor photodynamic therapy.
Strong and Thermo‐Switchable Gel Adhesion Based on UCST‐Type Phase Transition in Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Xu Huiyao , Li Haocheng , Zhang Yan , Guan Ying , Zhang Yongjun
Published: June 2024

It remains a great challenge to achieve strong and reversible hydrogel adhesion. Hydrogel adhesives also suffer from poor environmental stability due to dehydration. To overcome these problems, here reversible adhesive gels are designed using a new switching mechanism and new solvent. For the first time, the study observes UCST (upper critical solution temperature)‐type thermosensitive behaviors of poly(benzyl acrylate) (PBnA) polymer and gel in menthol:thymol deep eutectic solvents (DESs). The temperature‐induced phase transition allows adjusting cohesive force, and hence adhesion strength of PBnA gels by temperature. To further improve the mechanical and adhesion properties, a peptide crosslinker is used to allow energy dissipation when deforming. The resulting eutectogel exhibits thermal reversible adhesion with a high switching ratio of 14.0. The adhesion strength at attachment state reaches 0.627 MPa, which is much higher than most reversible adhesive hydrogels reported before. The low vapor pressure of DES endows the gel excellent environmental stability. More importantly, the gel can be repeatedly switched between attachment and detachment states. The strong and reversible gel adhesive is successfully used to design soft gripper for the transport of heavy cargos and climbing robot capable of moving on vertical and inverted surface in a manner similar to gecko.
Thermal Warning and Shut‐down of Lithium Metal Batteries Based on Thermoresponsive Electrolytes
Authors: Lan Yueyang , Xiang Liujie , Zhou Junyu , Jiang Sheng , Ge Yifan , Wang Caihong , Tan Shuai , Wu Yong
Published: June 2024

The thermal runaway issue represents a long‐standing obstacle that retards large‐scale applications of lithium metal batteries. Various approaches to inhibit thermal runaway suffer from some intrinsic drawbacks, either being irreversible or delayed thermal protection. Herein, this work has explored thermo‐responsive lower critical solution temperature (LCST) ionic liquid‐based electrolytes, which provides reversible overheating protection for batteries with warning and shut‐down stages, well corresponding to an initial stage of thermal runaway process. The batteries could function stably below 70 °C as a working mode, while demonstrating a warning mode above 80 °C with a noticeable reduction in specific capacitance to delay temperature increase of batteries. In terms of 110 °C as a critically dangerous temperature, a shut‐down mode is designed to minimize the thermal energy releasing as the batteries are barely chargeable and dischargeable. Dynamically growing polymeric particles above LCST contributed to such an intelligent and mild control on specific capacitance. Larger size will occupy larger surfaces of electrodes and close more pores of separators, enabling a gradual suppressing of Li+ transfer and reactions. The present work demonstrated a scientific design of thermoresponsive LCST electrolytes with a superiorly precise and intelligent control of electrochemical performances to achieve self‐adapted overheating protections.
Multiparametric Brain Hemodynamics Imaging Using a Combined Ultrafast Ultrasound and Photoacoustic System
Authors: Chen Haoyang , Mirg Shubham , Gaddale Prameth , Agrawal Sumit , Li Menghan , Nguyen Van , Xu Tianbao , Li Qiong , Liu Jinyun , Tu Wenyu , Liu Xiao , Drew Patrick J. , Zhang Nanyin , Gluckman Bruce J. , Kothapalli Sri‐Rajasekhar
Published: June 2024

Studying brain‐wide hemodynamic responses to different stimuli at high spatiotemporal resolutions can help gain new insights into the mechanisms of neuro‐ diseases and ‐disorders. Nonetheless, this task is challenging, primarily due to the complexity of neurovascular coupling, which encompasses interdependent hemodynamic parameters including cerebral blood volume (CBV), cerebral blood flow (CBF), and cerebral oxygen saturation (SO2). The current brain imaging technologies exhibit inherent limitations in resolution, sensitivity, and imaging depth, restricting their capacity to comprehensively capture the intricacies of cerebral functions. To address this, a multimodal functional ultrasound and photoacoustic (fUSPA) imaging platform is reported, which integrates ultrafast ultrasound and multispectral photoacoustic imaging methods in a compact head‐mountable device, to quantitatively map individual dynamics of CBV, CBF, and SO2as well as contrast agent enhanced brain imaging at high spatiotemporal resolutions. Following systematic characterization, the fUSPA system is applied to study brain‐wide cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) at single‐vessel resolution via relative changes in CBV, CBF, and SO2in response to hypercapnia stimulation. These results show that cortical veins and arteries exhibit differences in CVR in the stimulated state and consistent anti‐correlation in CBV oscillations during the resting state, demonstrating the multiparametric fUSPA system's unique capabilities in investigating complex mechanisms of brain functions.
Pathways to Upscaling Highly Efficient Organic Solar Cells Using Green Solvents: A Study on Device Photophysics in the Transition from Lab‐to‐Fab
Authors: Mazzolini Eva , Pacalaj Richard A. , Fu Yuang , Patil Bhushan R. , Patidar Rahul , Lu Xinhui , Watson Trystan M. , Durrant James R. , Li Zhe , Gasparini Nicola
Published: June 2024

As the rise of nonfullerene acceptors (NFA) has allowed lab‐scale organic solar cells (OSC) to reach 20% efficiency, translating these devices into roll‐to‐roll compatible fabrication still poses many challenges for researchers. Among these are the use of green solvent solubility for large‐scale manufacture, roll‐to‐roll compatible fabrication, and, not least, information on charge carrier dynamics in each upscaling step, to further understand the gap in performance. In this work, the reproducibility of champion devices using slot‐die coating with 14% power conversion efficiency (PCE) is demonstrated, under the condition that the optimal thickness is maintained. It is further shown that for the donor:acceptor (D:A) blend PM6:Y12, the processing solvent has a more significant impact on charge carrier dynamics compared to the deposition technique. It is found that the devices processed with o‐xylene feature a 40% decrease in the bimolecular recombination coefficient compared to those processed with CB, as well as a 70% increase in effective mobility. Finally, it is highlighted that blade‐coating yields devices with similar carrier dynamics to slot‐die coating, making it the optimal choice for lab‐scale optimization with no significant loss in translation toward up‐scale.
Magnetic Array‐Aided Visualizing PEMFC Degradation Heterogeneity
Authors: Sun Yuning , Mao Lei , Hu Zhiyong , Zhang Xiaoyu , Peng Ranran
Published: June 2024

Analyzing degradation heterogeneity of proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) while maintaining high practicality is consistently challenging, primarily due to the destructive and costly nature of existing techniques relying on material characterization. In this work, a designed magnetic array integrating 16 sensors within 25 cm2 space is used for direct scanning and imaging of PEMFC performance heterogeneity during its degradation. Results are validated through degradation mechanism analysis and material characterization, confirming its potential in guiding the development of durable materials.
Regulating Ion Diffusion and Stability in Amorphous Thiosilicate‐Based Solid Electrolytes Through Edge‐Sharing Local Structures
Authors: Hao Xiaoge , Quirk James A. , Zhao Feipeng , Alahakoon Sandamini H , Ma Jiabin , Fu Jiamin , Kim Jung Tae , Li Weihan , Li Minsi , Zhang Shumin , Duan Hui , Huang Yining , Dawson James A. , Sun Xueliang
Published: June 2024

Amorphous solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) play a pivotal role as fundamental components within all‐solid‐state lithium batteries, yet their understanding lags behind that of crystalline materials. In this work, a novel amorphous SSE 5Li2S‐3SiS2 (mol %) with a high ionic conductivity of 1.2 mS cm−1 is first reported. The silicon and sulfur atoms in the edge‐sharing Si2S64− are less attracted to lithium compared to the SiS44− anion, which is expected to facilitate the lithium ions conduction in SSEs. More importantly, the relationship between the material properties and local structure in the amorphous thiosilicate SSEs is revealed, particularly highlighting the desirable edge‐sharing local structure. The Si2S64− presents better stability with Li metal. This work offers an important guideline in the development of anion frameworks in amorphous sulfide SSEs for high‐performance all‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries.
Photo‐ and Photoelectrocatalysis in Nitrogen Reduction Reactions to Ammonia: Interfaces, Mechanisms, and Modeling Simulations
Authors: Ješić Dimitrij , Pomeroy Brett , Kamal Khaja Mohaideen , Kovačič Žan , Huš Matej , Likozar Blaž
Published: June 2024

The Haber–Bosch process is a cornerstone in the field of ammonia production and represents a decisive advance in industrial chemistry. This method, developed in the early 20th century, revolutionizes agriculture and enables the mass production of fertilizers. As the world strives for sustainable energy and environmental protection, alternative methods such as the photo/photoelectrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) are gaining momentum. By using sunlight, electricity, or a combination of both, these approaches promise sustainable ammonia production with renewable energy sources and innovative materials. Researchers are trying to understand the underlying principles, mechanisms, and advances of these methods to overcome the challenges and optimize their effectiveness. This research is a step toward sustainable energy and agriculture, and offers a greener and more efficient way forward. This review looks at advances in sustainable ammonia production, particularly through photo‐ and photoelectrocatalytic NRRs. It examines the hurdles in implementing these methods and provides an overview of the fundamentals of nitrogen fixation and a comparison of current mechanisms. In addition, thermodynamic, theoretical, and computational studies of these processes are summarized. Various photocatalysts and photoelectrocatalysts used for ammonia production are also presented.
Recent Advances in High‐Performance Direct Seawater Electrolysis for “Green” Hydrogen
Authors: Zhang Ran , Zhai Tingting , Wang Hao , Lu Siyu
Published: June 2024

Electrocatalytic water splitting through the electrolyzer is the most promising strategy for hydrogen production. Recently, water electrolysis is mainly based on high‐purity freshwater, which not only consumes a large number of freshwater resources but also improves the overall cost due to the extra water purification system. Hence, direct electrolysis of seawater is more desirable for large‐scale hydrogen generation. As is known, the dominant rate‐determining step of overall water splitting is the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER), which involves four‐electron transfer and owns a much larger overpotential than cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction. The large challenge for the design of OER catalysts in the seawater media is the competition reaction between OER and chloride oxidation reaction, which greatly influences energy efficiency. Hence, except for the activity and stability, selectivity is another key point for seawater splitting. Herein, after a brief introduction of two half reactions for water splitting, the latest metal hydr(oxide) electrocatalysts with different crystalline structures are summarized according to the previous reports. Moreover, the advantages and disadvantages of three common water electrolyzers are compared. Finally, the perspectives of seawater electrolysis for hydrogen production are outlined for practical applications.
Multi‐shaft stirred reactors mixing efficiency: Rapid characterization strategy based on chaotic attractors
Authors: Meng Tong , Yang Jie , Wang Songsong , Wang Yu , Qin Shuang , Wang Yundong , Tao Changyuan , Zhang Qian , Liu Zuohua
Published: June 2024

The complex fluid dynamics mechanism of multi‐shaft stirring systems has constrained their application in industrial production. In this work, we have extracted torque signals to correlate power consumption with rotational speeds across single, dual, and triple shaft stirred reactors. Remarkably, the reasons behind the unique linear power consumption‐rotational speed relationship exhibited in triple‐shaft reactor, through the application of Fractional Fourier Transform. Our comparative analysis, through mixing energy, reveals multi‐shaft systems' superiority in energy‐efficient mixing. More importantly, the interaction between impellers and fluid within a reactor is reflected in the evolving of torque chaotic attractors. We have established a novel characterization strategy by fractal dimension of attractors which reflect the reactors' mixing efficiency. By mathematically modeling these attractors, we have demonstrated their potential as a tool for establishing the internal dynamics equations of stirred reactors. This approach offers a new method for evaluating mixing effectiveness and automated control of stirring machinery.
Grace period of human mortality has declined for over a century
Authors: Giaimo Stefano
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Human mortality is U‐shaped and, therefore, defines an age separating lives with an overall negative net change in mortality from lives with an overall positive net change in mortality. How has age changed, also relatively to life expectancy, over recent human history? And how does compare between humans and other primates, the mortality of which is also U‐shaped?

Methods

Modeling data from the Human Mortality Database, the historical change of in advanced economies is reported and compared with that of primates in wild and captive conditions the demography of which was already modeled in the literature.

Results

In humans, a marked decline in for both sexes, also relatively to their life expectancy, is associated with medical and economic progress. Comparing wild with captive conditions in nonhuman primates, magnitude, and direction of the change in , both relatively to life expectancy and absolutely, can depend on genus and sex.

Conclusions

With medical and economic progress, human lives have transitioned from a negative to a positive net change in mortality independently of sex. There is no evidence of an analogous transition occurring in other primates when their environment is made more benign.
Platelet‐Drug Conjugates Engineered via One‐step Fusion Approach for Metastatic and Postoperative Cancer Treatment
Authors: Zhao Zhengjie , Yang Yinxian , Sheng Tao , Bao Yuhang , Yu Ruixi , Yu Xinmin , Jia Shuangxu , Wu Qing , Zhu Chaojie , Shen Xinyuan , Zhang Wentao , Lu Ziyi , Ji Kangfan , Chen Xiaofeng , Jiang Xinyun , Zhang Yuqi , Gu Zhen , Yu Jicheng
Published: June 2024

The exploration of cell‐based drug delivery systems for cancer therapy has gained growing attention. Approaches to engineering therapeutic cells with multidrug loading in an effective, safe, and precise manner while preserving their inherent biological properties remain of great interest. Here, we report a strategy to simultaneously load multiple drugs in platelets in a one‐step fusion process. We demonstrate doxorubicin (DOX)‐encapsulated liposomes conjugated with interleukin‐15 (IL‐15) could fuse with platelets to achieve both cytoplasmic drug loading and surface cytokine modification with a loading efficiency of over 70 % within minutes. Due to their inherent targeting ability to metastatic cancers and postoperative bleeding sites, the engineered platelets demonstrated a synergistic therapeutic effect to suppress lung metastasis and postoperative recurrence in mouse B16F10 melanoma tumor models.
Cu(I)‐Glutathione Assembly Supported on ZIF‐8 as Robust and Efficient Catalyst for Mild CO2 Conversions
Authors: Wang Wenjuan , Wang Tiansheng , Chen Shuang , Lv Ying , Salmon Lionel , Espuche Bruno , Moya Sergio , Morozova Oksana , Yun Yapei , Di Silvio Desiré , Daro Nathalie , Berlande Murielle , Hapiot Philippe , Pozzo Jean‐Luc , Yu Haizhu , Hamon Jean‐René , Astruc Didier
Published: June 2024

The Cu‐glutathione (GSH) redox system, essential in biology, is designed here as a supramacromolecular assembly in which the tetrahedral 18e Cu(I) center loses a thiol ligand upon adsorption onto ZIF‐8, as shown by EXAFS and DFT calculation, to generate a very robust 16e planar trigonal single‐atom Cu(I) catalyst. Synergy between Cu(I) and ZIF‐8, revealed by catalytic experiments and DFT calculation, affords CO2 conversion into high‐value‐added chemicals with a wide scope of substrates by reaction with terminal alkynes or propargyl amines in excellent yields under mild conditions and reuse at least 10 times without significant decrease in catalytic efficiency.
Learning from Protein Engineering by Deconvolution of Multi‐Mutational Variants
Authors: Hollmann Frank , Sanchis Joaquin , Reetz Manfred T.
Published: June 2024

This review analyzes a development in biochemistry, enzymology and biotechnology that originally came as a surprise. Following the establishment of directed evolution of stereoselective enzymes in organic chemistry, the concept of partial or complete deconvolution of selective multi‐mutational variants was introduced. Early deconvolution experiments of stereoselective variants led to the finding that mutations can interact cooperatively or antagonistically with one another, not just additively. During the past decade, this phenomenon was shown to be general. In some studies, molecular dynamics (MD) and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) computations were performed in order to shed light on the origin of non‐additivity at all stages of an evolutionary upward climb. Data of complete deconvolution can be used to construct unique multi‐dimensional rugged fitness pathway landscapes, which provide mechanistic insights different from traditional fitness landscapes. Along a related line, biochemists have long tested the result of introducing two point mutations in an enzyme for mechanistic reasons, followed by a comparison of the respective double mutant in so‐called double mutant cycles, which originally showed only additive effects, but more recently also uncovered cooperative and antagonistic non‐additive effects. We conclude with suggestions for future work, and call for a unified overall picture of non‐additivity and epistasis.
Structural Mapping of Protein Aggregates in Live Cells Modeling Huntington's Disease
Authors: Guo Zhongyue , Chiesa Giulio , Yin Jiaze , Sanford Adam , Meier Stefan , Khalil Ahmad S. , Cheng Ji‐Xin
Published: June 2024

While protein aggregation is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases, acquiring structural information on protein aggregates inside live cells remains challenging. Traditional microscopy does not provide structural information on protein systems. Routinely used fluorescent protein tags, such as Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP), might perturb native structures. Here, we report a counter‐propagating mid‐infrared photothermal imaging approach enabling mapping of secondary structure of protein aggregates in live cells modeling Huntington's disease. By comparing mid‐infrared photothermal spectra of label‐free and GFP‐tagged huntingtin inclusions, we demonstrate that GFP fusions indeed perturb the secondary structure of aggregates. By implementing spectra with small spatial step for dissecting spectral features within sub‐micrometer distances, we reveal that huntingtin inclusions partition into a β‐sheet‐rich core and a ɑ‐helix‐rich shell. We further demonstrate that this structural partition exists only in cells with the [RNQ+] prion state, while [rnq−] cells only carry smaller β‐rich non‐toxic aggregates. Collectively, our methodology has the potential to unveil detailed structural information on protein assemblies in live cells, enabling high‐throughput structural screenings of macromolecular assemblies.
Photorefinery of Biomass and Plastics to Renewable Chemicals using Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Feng Shixiang , Nguyen Phuc T. T. , Ma Xinbin , Yan Ning
Published: June 2024

The photocatalytic conversion of biomass and plastic waste provides opportunities for sustainable fuel and chemical production. Heterogeneous photocatalysts, typically composed of semiconductors with distinctive redox properties in their conduction band (CB) and valence band (VB), facilitate both the oxidative and reductive valorization of organic feedstocks. This article provides a comprehensive overview of recent advancements in the photorefinery of biomass and plastics from the perspective of the redox properties of photocatalysts. We explore the roles of the VB and CB in enhancing the value‐added conversion of biomass and plastics via various pathways. Our aim is to bridge the gap between photocatalytic mechanisms and renewable carbon feedstock valorization, inspiring further development in photocatalytic refinery of biomass and plastics.
Synthesis, characterization, DNA interaction, molecular docking, and α‐glucosidase inhibition studies of 3‐(pyrimidin‐2‐ylthio) groups substituted water soluble zinc (II) phthalocyanine
Authors: Ertunga Nagihan Saglam , Saka Ece Tugba , Taskin‐Tok Tugba , Akatin Melike Yildirim , Bektas Kadriye Inan , Colak Ahmet
Published: June 2024

In this work, 3‐(pyrimidin‐2‐ylthio)phthalonitrile (n‐MP1), non‐peripherally 3‐(pyrimidin‐2‐ylthio) groups substituted Zn (II) phthalocyanine (n‐MP2), and its water soluble derivative (n‐MP3) have been firstly synthesized and characterized with spectral data. The interaction of the n‐MP3 complex with DNA was examined in vitro using UV–visible titrimetric and thermal denaturation assays and in silico by performing molecular docking studies. In addition, the antidiabetic activity of n‐MP3 was revealed spectroscopically by studying α‐glucosidase inhibition activities. The spectroscopic results indicated that n‐MP3 effectively binds to CT‐DNA with a Kb value of 2.0 × 105 M−1 and interacts with CT‐DNA via noncovalent binding mode. Besides, docking studies divulged that n‐MP3 exhibits a stronger binding tendency (BE: −10.64 kcal/mol) with DNA than the control compounds, (7.78 kcal/mol for ethidium bromide and −6.21 kcal/mol for cisplatin). Consequently, due to its strong DNA binding activity, n‐MP3 may be suitable for antimicrobial and anticancer applications after further toxicological test systems. Also, n‐MP3 complex inhibited the activity of α‐glucosidase with the IC50 value of 1.44 ± 0.08 μM, whereas IC50 value of acarbose was 237.24 ± 1.80 μM. Therefore, it can be said that n‐MP3 is a very effective α‐glucosidase inhibitor.
Effect of adding lignin on preparation and properties of pitch/PAN‐derived electrospun nanofibers inducing cross‐linking structure
Authors: Zou Jialing , Li Mengzhu , Zhang Jiahui , Qi Yong , Yang Jianxiao , Zhang Aihua , Cao Jinchao
Published: June 2024

In this work, the content of lignin, pitch, and PAN as well as the preparation process would be systematically controlled in order to prepare carbon nanofibers (CNFs) with cross‐linked structure, high specific surface area, and good flexibility. The evolution of nanofibers with different lignin contents during stabilization and carbonization were explored, and the properties of the resultant CNFs as supercapacitor self‐supported electrodes were compared. The results indicated that with the increase of lignin content, not only cross‐linked structures were introduced in CNFs, but also the flexibility were obviously improved, accomplishing for supercapacitor self‐supported electrodes. Moreover, CNFs with different content of lignin varied in fiber morphology and microstructure, harvesting developed porous structure in CNFs. PPL3‐CNF prepared with adding lignin at a mass ratio of 3/7 into a concentration of 10 wt.% pitch/PAN solution presented the highest specific surface area of 949 m2 g−1, exhibiting an excellent specific capacitance of 190.7 F g−1 at 0.2 A g−1.
Validation of a high‐performance liquid chromatography method for determining lysophosphatidylcholine content in bovine pulmonary surfactant medication
Authors: Aghaei Mahsa , Talari Faezeh Shirgaei , Mollahosseini Afsaneh , Keramati Malihe
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary surfactant replacement therapy is a promising improvement in neonatal care for infants with respiratory distress syndrome. Lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC) is an undesirable component that can hinder surfactant proteins from enhancing the adsorption of surfactant lipids to balance surface tensions by creating a saturated coating on the interior of the lungs. A novel normal‐phase liquid chromatography method utilizing UV detection and non‐toxic solvents was developed and validated for the first time to analyze LPC in the complex matrix of pulmonary surfactant medication. The analytical method validation included evaluation of system suitability, repeatability, intermediate precision, linearity, accuracy, limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), stability and robustness. The method yielded detection and quantification limits of 4.4 and 14.5 μg/ml, respectively. The calibration curve was modified linearly within the LOQ to 1.44 mg/ml range, with a determination coefficient of 0.9999 for standards and 0.9997 for sample solutions. Given the lack of reliable published data on LPC analysis in pulmonary surfactant medications, this newly developed method demonstrates promising results and offers advantages of HPLC methodology, including simplicity, accuracy, specificity, sensitivity and an exceptionally low LOD and LOQ. These attributes contribute to considering this achievement as an innovative method.
Ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry combined with molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation reveals the source of bitterness in the traditional Chinese medicine formula Runchang‐Tongbian
Authors: Li Na , Li Chunyu , Zheng Aizhu , Liu Weipeng , Shi Yuwen , Jiang Mengcheng , Xiao Yusheng , Qiu Zhidong , Qiu Ye , Jia Ailing
Published: June 2024

The Runchang‐Tongbian (RCTB) formula is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula consisting of four herbs, namely Cannabis Fructus (Huomaren), Rehmanniae Radix (Dihuang), Atractylodis Macrocephalae Rhizoma (Baizhu), and Aurantii Fructus (Zhiqiao). It is widely used clinically because of its beneficial effect on constipation. However, its strong bitter taste leads to poor patient compliance. The bitter components of TCM compounds are complex and numerous, and inhibiting the bitter taste of TCM has become a major clinical challenge. Here, we use ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (UPLC–MS) and high‐resolution mass spectrometry to identify 59 chemical components in the TCM compound RCTB formula. Next, four bitter taste receptors, TAS2R39, TAS2R14, TAS2R7, and TAS2R5, which are tightly bound to the compounds in RCTB, were screened as molecular docking receptors using the BitterX database. The top‐three‐scoring receptor‐small‐molecule complexes for each of the four receptors were selected for molecular dynamics simulation. Finally, seven bitter components were identified, namely six flavonoids (rhoifolin, naringin, poncirin, diosmin, didymin, and narirutin) and one phenylpropanoid (purpureaside C). Thus, we proposed a new method for identifying the bitter components in TCM compounds, which provides a theoretical reference for bitter taste inhibition in TCM compounds.
Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of the Axiostat® dressing device to achieve radial artery access hemostasis: The R3A study
Authors: Nakache Ariel , Darmon Arthur , Molho Antoine , Steinecker Matthieu , Nejjari Mohammed , Digne Franck
Published: June 2024

Background

Radial access is the default approach in interventional cardiology. The Axiostat® surgical hemostatic dressing, using chitosan as its active component, has demonstrated potential in accelerating blood clotting. This study aims to assess the efficacy and the safety of the Axiostat® dressing in achieving hemostasis in patients undergoing transradial coronary angioplasty (TRCA).

Methods

This prospective, single‐center observational study, conducted in 2022, enrolled consecutive patients undergoing TRCA, with a target of 150 participants. The primary outcome was the success rate of radial artery hemostasis at 120 min, without bleeding necessitating immediate re‐compression. The secondary outcome included Axiostat® performance at 24 h and 30 days Postprocedure.

Results

The study was terminated prematurely for ethical and patient safety reasons, after inclusion of 41 consecutive TRCA patients due to an unexpectedly high radial artery thrombosis rate (19.5%, n = 8/41) observed 24 h Postprocedure. The success rate of radial hemostasis with the Axiostat® dressing was 78.0%. Procedural details and patient characteristics were comparable between successful Axiostat® removal and device failure cases.

Conclusion

The use of the Axiostat® dressing to achieve hemostasis after TRCA is effective but is associated with an unexpectedly high incidence of radial thrombosis. Our results should encourage caution in the future evaluation and use of this device for radial artery compression following TRCA.
Axial Coordination Regulating Single Atoms for Enhanced CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Lv Runyu , Chen Shan , Wang Huan
Published: June 2024

With the merits of high atomic utilization and well‐defined configuration, metal−nitrogen−carbon (M−N−C) single‐atomic catalysts (SACs), show great capability in selective reduction of CO2 into CO and formate. However, the metal center with the planar configuration of M−N4 has a highly symmetric structure, which is not conductive to charge transfer, thus limiting the intrinsic activity of SACs. Introduction of axially coordinated atoms with M−N4 center can break the symmetry and optimize the intermediate adsorption for accelerating CO2 reduction. Here, we briefly discuss the CO2RR pathway on single atoms and introduce the emerging synthetic methods for SACs with axial ligands. Then we review the axial coordination effect on CO2RR behavior. This review will be helpful for understanding the working mechanism of axially coordinated single atoms for enhancing CO2RR performance and thereby designing ideal coordination ligand in the axial direction.
The Influence of Metal Impurities on NiOOH Electrocatalytic Activity in the Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Watson Noë I. , Keegan Mark , van den Bosch Bart , Yan Ning , Rothenberg Gadi
Published: June 2024

The energy transition and the implementation of new electrochemical technologies will result in an increased reliance on critical raw materials for electrodes. Their large‐scale application will ultimately mean working with lower grade materials. Here we study the influence of metal impurities on nickel foam electrocatalysts. We do this by electrodepositing known amounts of first‐row transition metals (Cu, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co and Ni) on nickel foam and studying their performance in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) as a model reaction. The electrodes’ performance is studied using cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV), Tafel analysis, stepwise chronoamperometry (CA) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS). Combining these results with microscopy analysis, we show that even small amounts of transition‐metal impurities have profound effects on the catalytic performance of nickel electrodes. The changes affect the OER onset potential (the energy that the system requires to convert OH– to O2) and the Tafel slope of each electrode (the electrode's initial activity in the OER onset region). Our results highlight the implications of such impurities on electrode design and future large‐scale application.
Activation of σ‐Bonds by Group 13/Ylide‐Based Ambiphiles: Understanding and Design
Authors: González‐Pinardo Daniel , Krämer Felix , Breher Frank , Fernández Israel
Published: June 2024

The factors controlling the activation of σ‐bonds promoted by hidden Frustrated Lewis Pairs have been computationally explored using quantum chemical tools. To this end, the influence of both the nature of the group 13 element acting as Lewis acid as well as the cooperative action of the Lewis antagonists on the bond activation was quantitatively analyzed by means of the activation strain model of reactivity in combination with the energy decomposition analysis method. It is found that while the activation of the polar EX−H bonds (E15=group 15 element; E16=group 16 element) is feasible, the analogous processes involving non‐polar E14−H bonds (CH4, SiH4 or H2) proceed with much higher barriers. Nevertheless, these processes, and in particular the dihydrogen activation, can be realizable (i. e. proceeding with a feasible barrier) through rational design.
Oral Irrigation Devices: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sarkisova Farzana , Morse Zac , Lee Kevin , Bostanci Nagihan
Published: June 2024

Objectives

Self‐performed oral hygiene is essential for preventing dental caries, periodontal, and peri‐implant diseases. Oral irrigators are adjunctive oral home care aids that may benefit oral health. However, the effects of oral irrigation on oral health, its role in oral home care, and its mechanism of action are not fully understood. A comprehensive search of the literature revealed no existing broad scoping reviews on oral irrigators. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a comprehensive systematic review of the literature on oral irrigation devices and identify evidence gaps.

Methods

The Joanna Briggs Institute and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines were utilized to prepare the review. Four databases and eight gray literature sources were searched for English publications across any geographical location or setting.

Results

Two hundred and seventy‐five sources were included, predominantly from scientific journals and academic settings. Most studies originated from North America. Research primarily involved adults, with limited studies in children and adolescents. Oral irrigation was safe and well‐accepted when used appropriately. It reduced periodontal inflammation, potentially by modulating the oral microbiota, but further research needs to clarify its mechanism of action. Promising results were reported in populations with dental implants and special needs. Patient acceptance appeared high, but standardized patient‐reported outcome measures were rarely used. Anti‐inflammatory benefits occurred consistently across populations and irrigant solutions. Plaque reduction findings were mixed, potentially reflecting differences in study designs and devices.

Conclusions

Oral irrigators reduce periodontal inflammation, but their impact on plaque removal remains unclear. Well‐designed, sufficiently powered trials of appropriate duration need to assess the clinical, microbiological, and inflammatory responses of the periodontium to oral irrigation, particularly those with periodontitis, dental implants, and special needs. Patient‐reported outcome measures, costs, caries prevention, and environmental impact of oral irrigation need to be compared to other oral hygiene aids.
Titanium‐Immobilized Layered HUS‐7 Silicate as a Catalyst for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Ricka Rudolf , Amen Tareq W. M. , Tsunoji Nao , Reli Martin , Filip Edelmannová Miroslava , Kormunda Martin , Ritz Michal , Kočí Kamila
Published: June 2024

Utilizing photocatalytic CO2 reduction presents a promising avenue for combating climate change and curbing greenhouse gas emissions. However, maximizing its potential hinges on the development of materials that not only enhance efficiency but also ensure process stability. Here, we introduce Hiroshima University Silicate‐7 (HUS‐7) with immobilized Ti species as a standout contender. Our study demonstrates the remarkable photocatalytic activity of HUS‐7 in CO2 reduction, yielding substantially higher carbonaceous product yields compared to conventional titanium‐based catalysts TS‐1 and P25. Through thorough characterization, we elucidate that their boosted photocatalytic performance is attributed to the incorporation of isolated Ti species within the silica‐based precursor, serving as potent photoinduced active sites. Moreover, our findings underscore the crucial role of the Ligand‐to‐Metal Charge Transfer (LMCT) process in facilitating the photoactivation of CO2 molecules, shedding new light on key mechanisms underlying photocatalytic CO2 reduction.
Perceptions of cognitive decline among American Indian and Alaska Native elders
Authors: Allick Cole
Published: June 2024

INTRODUCTION

American Indian and Alaska Native elders aged ≥ 65 years are experiencing increased life expectancy. Elders are critical to intergenerational knowledge, yet limited data exist on the health challenges faced by this group.

METHODS

This study engaged individuals attending the National Indian Council on Aging 2021 Annual Meeting in Reno, Nevada. A 19‐question survey, designed to examine perceptions about cognitive decline and to identify comfort with potential risk and protective factors, was disseminated to 50 participants.

RESULTS

Participants indicated that they are concerned about cognitive decline, are willing to plan for their future care and cognitive testing, and articulated a desire for Tribally led long‐term support services.

DISCUSSION

This study found similar results to studies on White individuals, which include a lack of knowledge, stigma around the aging process, and gaps in services available. More work is necessary to address the gap in literature and policy.

Highlights

American Indian and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) are underrepresented in literature on Alzheimer's disease and related dementia (ADRD).

AI/ANs believe that they will experience cognitive decline as they age.

AI/ANs indicate a willingness to plan for future care and participate in future research on ADRD.
An assessment of nutrient removal by harvesting constructed floating wetlands in two coastal lagoons in the SE Baltic Sea
Authors: Lesutienė Jūratė , Bielecka Małgorzata , Petkuvienė Jolita , Razinkovas‐Baziukas Artūras
Published: June 2024

In the last decades, so‐called internal or sea‐based mitigation measures have been suggested as nature‐based solutions to remove nutrients and improve water quality in semi‐enclosed coastal waters. However, these have rarely been tested in the field, especially in colder climates where winter ice cover is common. The aim of this experimental research was to investigate plant growth conditions in such an environment, as well to estimate nutrient removal capacity by harvesting constructed floating wetlands (CFWs). We tested small (24–28 m2) CFWs (Biomatrix®, Scotland, UK) at two demonstration sites: the Curonian lagoon (CL, Lithuania) and Szczecin lagoon (SL, Poland). In the CL, CFWs were planted predominantly with Carex acutiformes (Ehrh.), while the SL CFW was planted mainly with the reed Phragmites australis (Cav.) Trin. ex Steud. We aimed to test the amount of nutrient removal by plant harvesting over three subsequent years (2019–2021). We investigated carbon storage capacity and plant nutrient stoichiometry as indicators of potential nutrient limitation in the brackish coastal waters. Plant biomass increased annually, stabilising at 2.5–3.7 kg wet weight m−2. The total nutrient uptake per installed island area varied with the plant species composition. In the successive years, the harvested plants from the CL CFW dominated by Carex accumulated 10.4–13.1 g N m−2, 0.6–0.8 g P m−2 and 318–431 g C m−2 per year. The harvest from the SL CFW dominated by Phragmites contained a two‐times higher amount of nutrients, the respective figures being 21.2 g N m−2, 1.6 g P m−2 and 704 g C m−2. The nutrient stoichiometry in the vegetation did not suggest the presence of sub‐optimal growth conditions due to nitrogen limitation. However, the CL's dissolved nutrient supply was very low during the summer cyanobacteria bloom and indicated a severe nitrogen deficiency (as reflected in the dissolved inorganic nitrogen:dissolved inorganic phosphorus [DIN:DIP] molar ratio of 6). We suggest that to maximise nutrient removal capacity, tall plants with high biomass should be selected and/or plants with fine root systems to efficiently uptake the limiting nutrient from the water.
Developing an eDNA approach for wetland biomonitoring: Insights on technical and conventional approaches
Authors: Bird Starsha , Dutton Paul , Wilkinson Shaun , Smith Josh , Duggan Ian , McGaughran Angela
Published: June 2024

Wetlands are ecologically and culturally significant ecosystems that are experiencing biodiversity declines globally. Biomonitoring techniques that use environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect and monitor biodiversity are well established in lake, riverine, and marine ecosystems. However, their use in wetlands requires further development due to the presence of sediments that block eDNA filters to limit water filtration, alongside a lack of standardized methodology. In this study, we examined eDNA dynamics to understand spatiotemporal biodiversity patterns in an Aotearoa New Zealand wetland and to optimize their application to wetland‐specific challenges. We sampled four sites across Opuatia Wetland at three time points during an austral spring. We conducted conventional taxonomic surveys, tested three different filter sizes (1.2 μm, 5 μm, and semi‐quantitative dacron filters), and assessed our ability to detect foreign DNA (from kea; Nestor notabilis) at different time points and distances post‐release. We found significant differences in DNA sequence composition across time and space, and when using different sized filters. eDNA data generally complemented (versus replaced) conventional survey and identification methods, with certain species only detected by one method or the other. Taxonomic resolution of conventional sampling and identification methods often exceeded that of eDNA. Foreign DNA was detectable 10 m from its release point for up to 1 week post‐release. Our results provide new considerations for future eDNA research in wetland environments, where rapid biomonitoring techniques are needed to support conservation and preservation.