bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atrazine increases the sodium absorption in frog (Rana esculenta) skin
Authors: Cassano Giuseppe , Bellantuono Vito , Ardizzone Concetta , Lippe Claudio
Published: January 2006

The presence of atrazine in agricultural sites has been linked to the decline in amphibian populations. The efforts of the scientific community generally are directed toward investigating the long-term effect of atrazine on complex functions (reproduction or respiration), but in the present study, we investigated the short-term effect on the short-circuit current (ISC), a quantitative measure of the ion transport operated by frog (Rana esculenta) skin. Treatment with 5 μM atrazine (1.08 mg/L) does not affect the transepithelial outfluxes of [14C]mannitol or [14C]urea; therefore, atrazine does not damage the barrier properties of frog skin. Atrazine causes a dose-dependent increase in the short-circuit current, with a minimum of 4.64 ± 0.76 μA/cm2 (11.05% ± 1.22%) and a maximum of 12.7 ± 0.7 μA/cm2 (35% ± 2.4%) measured at 10 nM and 5 μM, respectively. An increase in ISC also is caused by 5 μM ametryne, prometryn, simazine, terbuthylazine, or terbutryn (other atrazine derivatives). In particular, atrazine increases the transepithelial 22Na+ influx without affecting the outflux. Finally, stimulation of ISC by atrazine is suppressed by SQ 22536, H89, U73122, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate, and W7 (blockers of adenylate cyclase, protein kinase A, phospholipase C, intracellular Ca2+ increase, and calmodulin, respectively), whereas indomethacin and calphostin C (inhibitors of cyclooxygenase and protein kinase C, respectively) have no effect.
Sensitivity of aquatic invertebrate resting eggs to SeaKleen® (Menadione): A test of potential ballast tank treatment options
Authors: Raikow David F. , Reid David F. , Maynard Erynn E. , Landrum Peter F.
Published: January 2006

The introduction of aquatic species in resting life stages by the release of ballast water is a less well-known but potentially important invasive species vector. Best-management practices designed to minimize transport of ballast water cannot eliminate this threat, because residual water and sediment are retained in ballast tanks after draining. To evaluate the potential efficacy of chemical treatment of residual material in ship ballast tanks, the present study examined the acute toxicity of the proposed biocide SeaKleen® (menadione; Garnett, Watkinsville, GA, USA) on resting eggs of Brachionus plicatilis (a marine rotifer), a freshwater copepod, Daphnia mendotae (a freshwater cladoceran), and Artemia sp. (a marine brine shrimp). SeaKleen was toxic to resting eggs of all taxa. Daphnia mendotae resting eggs encased in protective ephippia were the least sensitive, as indicated by a 24-h lethal concentration of toxicant to 90% of organisms of 8.7 mg/L (95% confidence interval, ±0.1 mg/L). SeaKleen induced teratogenic effects in D. mendotae and Artemia sp. Exposure to sunlight quickly degraded SeaKleen, which lost all toxicity after 72 h outdoors. SeaKleen increased in toxicity slightly after 72 h in darkness. Burial of D. mendotae ephippia in natural lake sediment reduced SeaKleen toxicity by a factor of 20. Reduced toxicity in the presence of sediment raises serious doubts as to the potential for this, or any, chemical biocide to kill aquatic invertebrate resting stages buried in sediment retained in ship ballast tanks.
Assessment of the toxicity of mixtures of copper, 9,10-phenanthrenequinone, and phenanthrene toDaphnia magna: Evidence for a reactive oxygen mechanism
Authors: Xie Fangli , Koziar Stephen A. , Lampi Mark A. , Dixon D. George , Norwood Warren P. , Borgmann Uwe , Huang Xiao-Dong , Greenberg Bruce M.
Published: January 2006

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and their derivatives are ubiquitous environmental contaminants. They are commonly present in complex mixtures with other contaminants, such as metals. The toxicities of phenanthrene (PHE) and 9,10-phenanthre-nequinone (PHQ) with or without Cu were determined using Daphnia magna. Copper was the most toxic among the three chemicals tested, followed by PHQ and then PHE, with 48-h median effective concentrations (EC50s) of 0.96, 1.72, and 5.33 μM, respectively. Copper at 0.31 μM, or approximately the 5% effective concentration, decreased the EC50 of PHQ from 1.72 to 0.28 μM. Likewise, PHQ at 1.2 μM, or approximately the 10% effective concentration, significantly lowered the EC50 of Cu from 0.96 to 0.30 μM. This synergistic effect was not observed, however, in mixtures of Cu and PHE based on the response addition model. Assimilation of Cu wasfound to be similar with or without PHQ at increasing external concentrations of Cu, indicating that the increased toxicity of their mixtures is physiologically based. The ability of Cu plus PHQ to generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) was measured as well. Copper alone caused elevated ROS levels at a low concentration (0.63 μM). With PHQ present, however, this elevation in ROS occurred at an even lower Cu level (0.31 μM). Possible attenuation effects of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) on toxicity and ROS production induced by Cu, PHQ, and their mixtures were then examined. Ascorbic acid protected against Cu and Cu-plus-PHQ mixture–mediated toxicity but did not affect PHQ toxicity. Ascorbic acid also lowered ROS levels in the presence of Cu and Cu plus PHQ. We conclude that there exist potential toxic interactions between metals and modified PAHs and that these interactions can involve ROS formation.
Response of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae to three xenobiotic exposures: Larval tolerance and detoxifying enzyme activities
Authors: Boyer Sebastien , David Jean-Philippe , Rey Delphine , Lemperiere Guy , Ravanel Patrick
Published: January 2006

The ability of mosquito larvae to tolerate toxic compounds (temephos, Bacillus thuringiensis var. israelensis, toxic vegetable leaf litter) was examined on a laboratory larval strain of Aedes aegypti L. Bioassays and detoxifying enzyme activity measurements were performed to compare tolerance/resistance capacities. The possibility of a functional plasticity of detoxifying equipment was investigated through experimental determination of the inductive effect of each xenobiotic within a given generation. In the same way, the selective effect of a toxic leaf litter was also investigated along successive generations. Results revealed that differential cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, esterase, and glutathione S-transferase activity levels correlated with the bioassay results. Both induction and selection increased larval tolerance to the xenobiotics used and increased the levels of larval detoxifying enzyme activities.
Reproductive effects of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitroso-1,3,5-triazine in deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus) during a controlled exposure study
Authors: Smith Jordan N. , Pan Xiaoping , Gentles Angella , Smith Ernest E. , Cox Stephen B. , Cobb George P.
Published: January 2006

Contamination with hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine (Royal Demolition Explosive [RDX]) has been identified at areas of explosive manufacturing, processing, storage, and usage. Thus, the potential exists for exposure to N-nitroso compounds, hexahydro-1-nitroso-3,5-dinitro-1,3,5-triazine, hexahydro-1,3-dinitroso-5-nitro-1,3,5-triazine, and hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitroso-1,3,5-triazine (TNX), formed via anaerobic transformation of RDX. Following exposure, reproductive toxicity of TNX was evaluated in three consecutive litters of deer mice (Peromyscus maniculatus). Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitroso-1,3,5-triazine was administered ad libitum via drinking water at four doses: 0 (control), 1, 10, and 100 μg/L. Endpoints investigated included reproductive success, offspring survival, offspring weight gain, offspring organ weights, and liver TNX residues. Data from the present study indicate that TNX bioaccumulates in the liver and is associated with postpartum mortality, dose-dependent decrease in body weight from birth to weaning, and decrease in kidney weight of deer mice offspring.
Watershed-based sources of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in urban storm water
Authors: Stein Eric D. , Tiefenthaler Liesl L. , Schiff Kenneth
Published: January 2006

Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are carcinogenic and mutagenic compounds, ubiquitous in the air and water of urban environments, and have been shown to accumulate in coastal estuarine and marine sediments. Although previous studies have documented concentrations and loads of PAHs in urban runoff, little is known about the sources and temporal patterns of PAH loading from storm water. This study characterized the sources and temporal patterns of PAHs in urban storm water by analyzing PAH concentrations and loads from a range of homogeneous land use sites and in-river mass emission sites throughout the greater Los Angeles, California, USA, region. Samples were collected at 30- to 60-min intervals over the course of a storm during multiple storm events over a four-year period in order to investigate PAH sources and inter- and intrastorm patterns in loading. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon storm fluxes ranged from 1.3 g/km2 for the largely undeveloped Arroyo Sequit watershed to 223.7 g/km2 for the highly urbanized Verdugo Wash watershed, with average storm fluxes being 46 times higher in developed versus undeveloped watersheds. Early-season storms repeatedly produced substantially higher loads than comparably sized late-season storms. Within individual storms, PAHs exhibited a moderate first flush with between 30 and 60% of the total PAH load being discharged in the first 20% of the storm volume. The relative distribution of individual PAHs demonstrated a consistent predominance of high-molecular-weight compounds indicative of pyrogenic sources.
Variation in mitochondrial DNA control region haplotypes in populations of the bank vole,Clethrionomys glareolus, living in the Chernobyl environment, Ukraine
Authors: Wickliffe Jeffrey K. , Dunina-Barkovskaya Yelena V. , Gaschak Sergey P. , Rodgers Brenda E. , Chesser Ronald K. , Bondarkov Mikhail , Baker Robert J.
Published: January 2006

Bank vole, Clethrionomys glareolus, specimens have been annually sampled from the radioactive Chernobyl, Ukraine, environment and nonradioactive reference sites since 1997. Exposed voles continually exhibit increased mitochondrial DNA hap-lotype (h) and nucleotide diversity (ND), observed in the hypervariable control region (1997–1999). Increased maternal mutation rates, source–sink relationships, or both are proposed as hypotheses for these differences. Samples from additional years (2000 and 2001) have been incorporated into this temporal study. To evaluate the hypothesis that an increased mutation rate is associated with increased h, DNA sequences were examined in a phylogenetic context for novel substitutions not observed in haplotypes from bank voles from outside Ukraine or in other species of Clethrionomys. Such novel substitutions might result from in situ mutation events and, if largely restricted to samples from radioactive environments, support an increased maternal mutation rate in these areas. The only unique substitution meeting this criterion was found in an uncontaminated reference site. All other substitutions are found in other haplotypes of the bank vole or in other species. Increased maternal mutation rates do not appear to explain trends in h and ND observed in northern Ukraine. Studies examining ecological dynamics will clarify the reasons behind, and significance of, increased levels of h in contaminated areas.
Plasma sampling and freezing procedures influence vitellogenin measurements by enzyme-linked immunoassay in the fathead minnow (Pimephales promelas)
Authors: Brodeur Julie C. , Woodburn Kent B. , Zhang Fagen , Bartels Michael J. , Klecka Gary M.
Published: January 2006

The present study compared three different methods for measuring plasma vitellogenin (VTG) in fathead minnow (FHM; Pimephales promelas): A procedure using liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization combined with tandem mass spec-trometry (LC/ESI-MS/MS), and two commercial enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA) kits using either anti-carp or anti-FHM antibodies. The influence on plasma VTG measurements of using the protease-inhibitor aprotinin during blood sampling and of submitting the plasma samples to a freeze–thaw cycle before analysis also was evaluated. The addition of aprotinin to the blood during sampling significantly reduced the plasma VTG concentrations measured by ELISA, whereas the VTG values measured after plasma samples were submitted to a freeze–thaw cycle were significantly higher than those measured before freezing. This inflating effect of freezing on VTG measurements made by ELISA could be prevented if plasma samples were frozen diluted in citrate buffer containing 16 mg/ml of polyethylene glycol (PEG). In contrast, measurements of VTG made by LC/ESI-MS/MS were unaffected by freezing and, conceptually, are independent from enzymatic degradation. Although the use of aprotinin and PEG effectively reduced the influence of enzymatic and physical degradation caused by freezing and thawing on VTG measurements made by ELISA, it did not improve agreement between the three analytical techniques evaluated. More information is needed regarding the molecular structure and the existence of possible multiple forms of VTG before this protein can be measured adequately in FHM.
Adverse Events After XBB.1.5-Containing COVID-19 mRNA Vaccines
Authors: Andersson Niklas Worm , Thiesson Emilia Myrup , Hviid Anders
Published: February 2024

This study examines the association between XBB.1.5-containing vaccines administered as a fifth COVID-19 vaccine dose and the risk of 28 adverse events.
Misinformation and the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System
Authors: Jamieson Kathleen Hall , Johnson Kevin B. , Cappola Anne R.
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint posits that to improve public understanding of the system, the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) could use a more accurate name, well-defined guidance about the reporting system’s nature and use, and comprehensible information about an event’s verification status.
Individualizing Care for Older Adults With Diabetes Amid the Revolution in Pharmacotherapy
Authors: Huang Elbert S.
Published: February 2024

This JAMA Network Insights reassesses the approach to caring for older adults with diabetes in the context of newly available pharmacologic agents.
Psychotropic Medication Prescriptions and Large California Wildfires
Authors: Wettstein Zachary S. , Vaidyanathan Ambarish
Published: February 2024

Importance

Wildfires, intensified by climate change, have known effects on physical health but their effects on mental health are less well characterized. It has been hypothesized that the residential proximity to a large wildfire can exacerbate underlying mental health conditions as evidenced by increased prescriptions of psychotropic medications.

Objective

To evaluate the association between the occurrence of large wildfires and the prescription rates of psychotropic medications immediately following the start of the fire.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohortstudy used an interrupted time-series analysis to compare psychotropic medication prescriptions in the 6 weeks before and after each of 25 wildfires. The setting was California counties within metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) experiencing large wildfires from 2011 through 2018. Participants included individuals residing in California MSAs with prescriptions of psychotropic medications recorded in the Merative MarketScan Research Database (MarketScan) during the study period. Statistical analysis was performed for these 25 large wildfires occurring between September 2011 and November 2018.

Exposure

Residential proximity to large wildfires that burned more than 25 000 acres occurring in a California county within an MSA.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Prescriptions of psychotropic medications, including antidepressants, antipsychotics, anxiolytics, hypnotics, and mood-stabilizers, with statins as a negative control outcome.

Results

For the study period, prescription data and patient-level attributes were extracted for 7 115 690 unique individuals (annual mean [range]: 889 461 [455 705-1 426 928] individuals) enrolled in MarketScan and residing in fire-affected MSAs. This study found a statistically significant increase in prescriptions of antidepressants (rate ratio [RR], 1.04 [95% CI, 1.01-1.07]), anxiolytics (RR, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.02-1.09]), and mood-stabilizing medications (RR, 1.06 [95% CI, 1.01-1.13]) in the fire period compared with the prefire baseline. However, the prescriptions of antipsychotics, hypnotics, and the negative control outcome, statins, showed no significant association.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of large California wildfires, the occurrence of wildfire was associated with increased mental health burden as reflected in increased prescription rates of certain psychotropic medications. The findings underscore the need for further scientific examination into the mental health effects of wildfires and the allocation of mental health resources in disaster responses. California experienced a substantial burden of wildfires from 2011 to 2018, and as wildfires become more intense and frequent in the context of anthropogenic climate change, it is increasingly important to understand and address their mental health effects.
Reducing Intergenerational Poverty—An Essential Driver of Health
Authors: Hamad Rita , Addo Fenaba , Montez Kimberly
Published: February 2024

This Viewpoint discusses a report from the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine on how to address intergenerational poverty.
Free‐Standing Janus Nanosheets: Ultrafast Self‐Assembly and Versatile Biphase‐Application
Authors: Li Shuqi , Jiang Xinming , Wang Zhen , Song Shuang , Cai Zongwei , Leung Ken Cham‐Fai , Zeng Tao
Published: February 2024

The development of stable Janus architectures suitable for biphasic applications holds significant importance. A novel approach is introduced for interfacial supramolecular self‐assembly, resulting in 2D Janus nanosheets (OA‐TA/Fe) exhibiting an amphiphilic nature. These nanosheets consist of hydrophilic coordination complexes of ferric ions (Fe3+) and tannic acid (TA) on one side of both surfaces and hydrophobic alkyl chains on the other side of both surfaces. The synthesis of these 2D Janus nanosheets involves a simple, ultrafast, and environmentally benign process, eliminating the need for time‐consuming multistep procedures and harsh synthetic conditions typically associated with Janus architecture formation. By exploiting the inherent singular anisotropic wettability inherent in OA‐TA/Fe‐2, the efficacy of these innovative Janus nanosheets in the efficient separation of various organic liquid‐in‐water and water‐in‐organic liquid emulsions is elucidated. Subsequent post‐modification of OA‐TA/Fe has facilitated the highly efficient remediation of contaminated oily wastewater, serving as a model biphasic catalysis reaction, wherein the Janus nanosheets function simultaneously as emulsifiers and catalysts within biphasic mixtures. The methodology establishes a rapid self‐assembly approach for the creation of amphiphilic free‐standing Janus nanosheets, offering compelling prospects for their application in diverse fields, as exemplified by, but not limited to, the case studies presented herein.
Self‐Powered Underwater Pressing and Position Sensing and Autonomous Object Grasping with a Porous Thermoplastic Polyurethane Film Sensor
Authors: Wang Quanyu , Song Yongxin , Liu Pu , Li Deyu , Wang Jiahui , Fu Xianping , Li Dongqing
Published: February 2024

Most flexible ionic tactile sensors can hardly be used in deep sea due to their poor antiswelling and anticompression properties under high hydrostatic pressure. To achieve pressure and position sensing under high hydrostatic pressure, a self‐powered underwater tactile sensor made of a porous thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) film is presented in this paper. The sensor works by generating an electric current due to the different moving velocities of ions in the porous film under pressing. Experimental results show that the magnitude of the generated current signal increases with the applied pressure, the contacting area, and ion concentration of the solution. The direction and magnitude of the current signal depend on the pressing position of the film. The signal magnitude decreased with the closer to the center of the film. The maximum pressure sensitivity and positioning resolution are 0.62 kPa−1 and 1.31 mm respectively. Response time (0.19 s), 0.67 s recovery time, and 50–600 kPa pressure detection range are achieved. In addition, the signal magnitude is decreased only by 15.53% when the sensor is placed underwater at a simulated depth of 100 m. Proof of concept demonstration of underwater autonomously grasping objects of different weights with this sensor is successfully achieved.
Synchronous Optimization of Light Outcoupling and Carrier Recombination for Efficient and Spectral Stable Blue Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Qi Heng , Wang Hao , Chen Yali , Zhang Lu , Wu Jiandong , Li Tianxiang , Li Wan , Wang Kun , Wang Hongqiang , Tong Yu
Published: February 2024

Despite the significant progress of blue perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) in recent years, huge challenges still remain in improving their efficiency and spectral stability. In this work, a new strategy is reported to realize efficient and spectral stable blue PeLEDs through synchronously optimizing light outcoupling and carrier recombination of perovskite films. By introducing additives in both precursor solution and antisolvent, the crystallization of the perovskite films is regulated, leading to a spontaneous formation of undulant morphology, which favorably enhances the light outcoupling efficiency. Meanwhile, the formation of low‐dimensional perovskite phases is suppressed, in accompany with a reduced defect density and accelerated energy transfer, leading to a rapid concentration of excitons in the target perovskite phases and a significant enhancement of radiative carrier recombination. Resultantly, the optimized blue perovskite films show a high photoluminescent quantum yield approaching 80%, and the corresponding optimized PeLEDs show a high external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 11.88%, which significantly outperforms the control device with only 1.96%. Importantly, the optimized perovskite films and PeLEDs also exhibit improved spectral stability. This work provides a new pathway toward realizing efficient and spectral‐stable PeLEDs via simultaneously tackling the issues of light outcoupling and carrier recombination in the devices.
Overcoming Defect Limitations in Photocatalysis: Boron‐Incorporation Engineered Crystalline Red Phosphorus for Enhanced Hydrogen Production
Authors: Pei Xinya , Bian Junwei , Zhang Wei , Hu Zhuofeng , Ng Yun Hau , Dong Yi , Zhai Xinhui , Wei Zhen , Liu Yuxi , Deng Jiguang , Dai Hongxing , Jing Lin
Published: February 2024

Photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) from water splitting is a promising technology for clean and renewable energy production. Elemental crystalline red phosphorus (CRP) is purposefully designed and developed for PHE reaction. However, the photocatalytic activity of CRP is limited by its intrinsic P vacancy (VP) defects, which lead to detrimental charge trapping at deep states and hence its severe recombination. To address this issue, a boron (B) incorporated CRP (B‐CRP) photocatalyst is tailored, synthesized via a simple and mild boric acid‐assisted hydrothermal strategy. The incorporation of B effectively fills the VP defects, reducing deep trap states (DTS) and introducing beneficial shallow trap states (STS) within the band structure of CRP. This defect engineering approach leads to enhanced photocatalytic activity, with B‐CRP achieving a PHE rate of 1392 µmol g−1 h−1, significantly outperforming most reported elemental photocatalysts in the literature. Density functional theory (DFT) simulations and ultrafast spectroscopy support the constructive role of B‐dopant‐induced STS in prolonging active charge carrier lifetimes, promoting more efficient photocatalytic reactions. The findings not only demonstrate the effectiveness of B‐CRP as a photocatalyst but also highlight the usefulness of dopant‐induced STS in advancing PHE technologies.
Therapeutic In Vivo Gene Editing Achieved by a Hypercompact CRISPR‐Cas12f1 System Delivered with All‐in‐One Adeno‐Associated Virus
Authors: Cui Tongtong , Cai Bingyu , Tian Yao , Liu Xin , Liang Chen , Gao Qingqin , Li Bojin , Ding Yali , Li Rongqi , Zhou Qi , Li Wei , Teng Fei
Published: February 2024

CRISPR‐based gene therapies are making remarkable strides toward the clinic. But the large size of most widely used Cas endonucleases including Cas9 and Cas12a restricts their efficient delivery by the adeno‐associated virus (AAV) for in vivo gene editing. Being exceptionally small, the recently engineered type V‐F CRISPR‐Cas12f1 systems can overcome the cargo packaging bottleneck and present as strong candidates for therapeutic applications. In this study, the pairwise editing efficiencies of different engineered Cas12f1/sgRNA scaffold combinations are systemically screened and optimized, and the CasMINI_v3.1/ge4.1 system is identified as being able to significantly boost the gene editing activity. Moreover, packaged into single AAV vectors and delivered via subretinal injection, CasMINI_v3.1/ge4.1 achieves remarkably high in vivo editing efficiencies, over 70% in transduced retinal cells. Further, the efficacy of this Cas12f1 system‐based gene therapy to treat retinitis pigmentosa in RhoP23H mice is demonstrated by the therapeutic benefits achieved including rescued visual function and structural preservation. And minimal bystander editing activity is detected. This work advances and expands the therapeutic potential of the miniature Cas12f1 system to support efficient and accurate in vivo gene therapy.
Shared and Compartment‐Specific Processes in Nucleus Pulposus and Annulus Fibrosus During Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Swahn Hannah , Mertens Jasmin , Olmer Merissa , Myers Kevin , Mondala Tony S. , Natarajan Padmaja , Head Steven R. , Alvarez‐Garcia Oscar , Lotz Martin K.
Published: February 2024

Elucidating how cell populations promote onset and progression of intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) has the potential to enable more precise therapeutic targeting of cells and mechanisms. Single‐cell RNA‐sequencing (scRNA‐seq) is performed on surgically separated annulus fibrosus (AF) (19,978; 26,983 cells) and nucleus pulposus (NP) (20,884; 24,489 cells) from healthy and diseased human intervertebral discs (IVD). In both tissue types, depletion of cell subsets involved in maintenance of healthy IVD is observed, specifically the immature cell subsets – fibroblast progenitors and stem cells – indicative of an impairment of normal tissue self‐renewal. Tissue‐specific changes are also identified. In NP, several fibrotic populations are increased in degenerated IVD, indicating tissue‐remodeling. In degenerated AF, a novel disease‐associated subset is identified, which expresses disease‐promoting genes. It is associated with pathogenic biological processes and the main gene regulatory networks include thrombospondin signaling and FOXO1 transcription factor. In NP and AF cells thrombospondin protein promoted expression of genes associated with TGFβ/fibrosis signaling, angiogenesis, and nervous system development. The data reveal new insights of both shared and tissue‐specific changes in specific cell populations in AF and NP during IVD degeneration. These identified mechanisms and molecules are novel and more precise targets for IDD prevention and treatment.
Camel‐Fur‐Inspired Graphite‐Based Hygroscopic Membrane for Passive Air Cooling with Ultrahigh Cooling Power
Authors: Lin Wenzhu , Yao Xiaoxue , Kumar Nallapaneni Manoj , Lo Wai Kin , Chopra Shauhrat S. , Hau Ng Yun , Wang Steven
Published: February 2024

Earth's temperature has risen by ≈0.18 °C per decade since 1981 and year 2022 is the sixth‐warmest year on record. The exploration of cooling strategies that operate with less energy consumption is thus highly desirable. Through this project, a camel‐fur‐inspired passive membrane encapsulated sorbent cooler that can periodically absorb moisture from the atmosphere and release it for daytime evaporative cooling, leading to effective regulation of building temperature without additional energy input is demonstrated. This sorbent cooler with high sorption capacity is made of anhydrous salt and modified expanded graphite and further encapsulated by a breathable porous membrane. This novel material is shape‐stabilized, and it has excellent cycling performance, and remarkable water adhesion ability. In this evaporative‐cooling demonstration, the average cooling power of the camel‐fur‐inspired sorbent can reach up to 630 W m−2, which is much higher than the radiative cooling approach. This theoretical model implies that the proposed sorbent cooler has the potential to cut down cooling energy carbon emission by 61% to 87.83% when compared to emissions released from cooling energy usage in reference buildings. This nature‐inspired approach paves a new way for efficient space cooling without extra water supply and with minimized energy consumption.
RNA‐Vermittelte Peptidbindungen Fördern die L‐Homochiralität
Authors: Węgrzyn Ewa , Mejdrová Ivana , Müller Felix M. , Nainytė Milda , Escobar Luis , Carell Thomas
Published: February 2024

Die Welt, in der wir leben, ist homochiral. Die Riboseeinheiten, die das Rückgrat von DNA und RNA bilden, sind alle D‐konfiguriert, und die kodierten Aminosäuren, aus denen die Proteine aller lebenden Arten bestehen, weisen an den α‐Kohlenstoffatomen eine L‐Konfiguration auf. Die Homochiralität der α‐Aminosäuren ist unerlässlich für die Faltung der Peptide in wohldefinierte und funktionelle 3D‐Strukturen und die Homochiralität der D‐Ribose ist entscheidend für die Ausbildung einer Helix und die Basenpaarung. Die Frage, warum die Natur nur kodierte L‐α‐Aminosäuren verwendet, ist nicht geklärt. Wir zeigen hier, dass eine RNA‐Peptid‐Welt, in der Peptide an aus D‐Ribose aufgebauten RNAs wachsen, zur Selbstselektion von homo‐L‐Peptiden führt, was eine mögliche Erklärung für die in der Natur beobachtete Kombination von homo‐D‐Ribose und homo‐L‐Aminosäuren liefert.
Converting Commercial Zn Foils into Single (002)‐Textured Zn with Millimeter‐Sized Grains for Highly Reversible Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Chen Zibo , Wu Qiang , Han Xuran , Wang Cheng , Chen Jialu , Hu Tao , He Qian , Zhu Xinyue , Yuan Du , Chen Jianyu , Zhang Yu , Yang Lijun , Ma Yanwen , Zhao Jin
Published: February 2024

Rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries are promising but hindered by unfavorable dendrite growth and side reactions on zinc anodes. In this study, we demonstrate a fast melting‐solidification approach for effectively converting commercial Zn foils into single (002)‐textured Zn featuring millimeter‐sized grains. The melting process eliminates initial texture, residual stress, and grain size variations in diverse commercial Zn foils, guaranteeing the uniformity of commercial Zn foils into single (002)‐textured Zn. The single (002)‐texture ensures large‐scale epitaxial and dense Zn deposition, while the reduction in grain boundaries significantly minimizes intergranular reactions. These features enable large grain single (002)‐textured Zn shows planar and dense Zn deposition under harsh conditions (100 mA cm−2, 100 mAh cm−2), impressive reversibility in Zn||Zn symmetric cell (3280 h under 1 mA cm−2, 830 h under 10 mAh cm−2), and long cycling stability over 180 h with a high depth of discharge value of 75 %. This study successfully addresses the issue of uncontrollable texture formation in Zn foils following routine annealing treatments with temperatures below the Zn melting point. The findings of this study establish a highly efficient strategy for fabricating highly reversible single (002)‐textured Zn anodes.
Modular Synthesis of Improbable Rotaxanes with All‐Benzene Scaffolds
Authors: Bu An , Gao Jia‐Nan , Chen Yiming , Xiao Hongyan , Li Hongwei , Tung Chen‐Ho , Wu Li‐Zhu , Cong Huan
Published: February 2024

“Improbable” rotaxanes consisting of interlocked conjugated components represent non‐trivial synthetic targets, not to mention those with all‐benzene scaffolds. Herein, a modular synthetic strategy has been established using an isolable azo‐linked pre‐rotaxane as the core module, in which the azo group functions as a tracelessly removable template to direct mechanical bond formations. Through versatile connections of the pre‐rotaxane and other customizable modules, [2]‐ and [3]rotaxanes derived from all‐benzene scaffolds have been accomplished, demonstrating the utility and potential of the synthetic design for all‐benzene interlocked supramolecules.
Bipolar Polymeric Protective Layer for Dendrite‐Free and Corrosion‐Resistant Lithium Metal Anode in Ethylene Carbonate Electrolyte
Authors: Deng Chenglong , Yang Binbin , Liang Yaohui , Zhao Yi , Gui Boshun , Hou Chuanyu , Shang Yanxin , Zhang Jinxiang , Song Tinglu , Gong Xuzhong , Chen Nan , Wu Feng , Chen Renjie
Published: February 2024

The unstable interface between Li metal and ethylene carbonate (EC)‐based electrolytes triggers continuous side reactions and uncontrolled dendrite growth, significantly impacting the lifespan of Li metal batteries (LMBs). Herein, a bipolar polymeric protective layer (BPPL) is developed using cyanoethyl (−CH2CH2C≡N) and hydroxyl (−OH) polar groups, aiming to prevent EC‐induced corrosion and facilitating rapid, uniform Li+ ion transport. Hydrogen‐bonding interactions between −OH and EC facilitates the Li+ desolvation process and effectively traps free EC molecules, thereby eliminating parasitic reactions. Meanwhile, the −CH2CH2C≡N group anchors TFSI− anions through ion‐dipole interactions, enhancing Li+ transport and eliminating concentration polarization, ultimately suppressing the growth of Li dendrite. This BPPL enabling Li|Li cell stable cycling over 750 cycles at 10 mA cm−2 for 2 mAh cm−2. The Li|LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 and Li|LiFePO4 full cells display superior electrochemical performance. The BPPL provides a practical strategy to enhanced stability and performance in LMBs application.
Reactivity of Superbasic Carbanions Generated via Reductive Radical‐Polar Crossover in the Context of Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Grotjahn Sascha , Graf Christina , Zelenka Jan , Pattanaik Aryaman , Müller Lea , Kutta Roger Jan , Rehbein Julia , Roithová Jana , Gschwind Ruth M. , Nuernberger Patrick , König Burkhard
Published: February 2024

Photocatalytic reactions involving a reductive radical‐polar crossover (RRPCO) generate intermediates with carbanionic reactivity. Many of these proposed intermediates resemble highly reactive organometallic compounds. However, conditions of their formation are generally not tolerated by their isolated organometallic versions and often a different reactivity is observed. Our investigations on their nature and reactivity under commonly used photocatalytic conditions demonstrate that these intermediates are indeed best described as free, superbasic carbanions capable of deprotonating common polar solvents usually assumed to be inert such as acetonitrile, dimethylformamide, and dimethylsulfoxide. Their basicity not only towards solvents but also towards electrophiles, such as aldehydes, ketones, and esters, is comparable to the reactivity of isolated carbanions in the gas‐phase. Previously unsuccessful transformations thought to result from a lack of reactivity are explained by their high reactivity towards the solvent and weakly acidic protons of reaction partners. An intuitive explanation for the mode of action of photocatalytically generated carbanions is provided, which enables methods to verify reaction mechanisms proposed to involve an RRPCO step and to identify the reasons for the limitations of current methods.
Regio‐ and Atroposelective Ring‐Opening of 1H‐Benzo[4,5]oxazolopyridinones
Authors: Deng Ruixian , Dong Puyang , Ge Jimeng , Zhang Wenjing , Xue Xiaoping , Duan Longhui , Shi Linlin , Gu Zhenhua
Published: February 2024

The development of new methods for regio‐ and stereoselective activation of C−O bonds in ethers holds significant promise for synthetic chemistry, offering advantages in terms of environmental sustainability and economic efficiency. Moreover, the C−N atropisomers represent a fascinating and crucial chiral system, extensively found in natural products, pharmaceutical leads, and the frameworks of advanced materials. In this work, we have introduced a nickel‐catalyzed regio‐ and enantioselective carbon‐oxygen arylation reaction for atroposelective synthesis ofN‐arylisoquinoline‐1,3(2H,4H)‐diones. The high regioselectivity of C−O cleavage benefits from the high stability of the in situ formed (amido)ethenolate via oxidative addition. Additionally, the self‐activation of the aryl C−O bond facilitates the reaction under mild conditions, leading to outstanding enantioselectivities. The diverse post‐functionalizations of the axially chiral isoquinoline‐1,3(2H,4H)‐diones further highlighted the utility of this protocol in preparing valuable C−N atropisomers, including the chiral phosphine ligands.
Formation of hollow solid lipid microparticles from natural waxes using supercritical carbon dioxide
Authors: Sezer Okur Purlen , Ciftci Deniz , Ciftci Ozan N.
Published: February 2024

In this study, the potential of natural waxes, namely, candelilla wax (CLW) and carnauba wax (CW), was explored to form extra‐hard shell hollow solid lipid particles using a particle formation process based on supercritical fluid technology. Melting behavior and volumetric expansion of CLW and CW in pressurized CO2 were investigated as a function of pressure. The melting point of waxes decreased linearly with increasing pressures up to a certain level; then stayed constant regardless of further elevated pressures. The highest melting point depressions of 13.0% and 8.3% were observed for CLW and CW at 140 and 130 bar CO2 pressure, respectively. A positive correlation between the melting point depression and volumetric expansion was observed for both waxes. The volumetric expansion of waxes increased with increasing pressures within the linear range of the melting curves. The highest volumetric expansion was achieved at 140 bar/68°C and 130 bar/85°C for CLW (7.1%) and CW (8.5%), respectively. Hollow solid lipid particles with smooth surfaces were obtained from both CLW and CW. There was no difference between the melting behavior of the original waxes and their particles. Increasing SC‐CO2 pressure decreased the particle size and inner volume of the hollow particles. D[4,3] of CLW ranged between 9.3 and 25.4 μm, whereas it ranged between 8.7 and 34.2 μm for CW. CLW and CW were found to be suitable high‐melting lipids to form hollow solid lipid particles via SC‐CO2‐assisted particle formation process to develop hollow solid lipid particles with an extra‐hard protective shell.
Factors in the Perioperative Nurses’ Work Environment That Predict Work Engagement
Authors: Wright M. Imelda , Sha Shuying , Hall Lynne A. , Hessler Brittany
Published: February 2024

Perioperative nurse engagement and certification are associated with a culture of safety, which is crucial in perioperative environments. Therefore, examining relationships between engagement, the practice environment, and certification is warranted. The purposes of this study were to examine the relationships between the perioperative practice environment and reported nurse engagement, determine differences in engagement based on certification, and identify facilitators and barriers to attaining and sustaining certification. In this multiphase mixed‐methods study, we used a convenience sample of perioperative nurses (N = 379) to examine relationships between engagement, the practice environment, and certification. Qualitative interviews were conducted (n = 15) to supplement the quantitative findings. Leadership support (β = 0.23, P = .001) and nursing foundations for quality care (β = 0.21, P = .01) were significant predictors of engagement. Certified nurses did not have significantly higher mean engagement scores when compared with noncertified peers. Qualitative interviews corroborated the findings.
Factors Affecting Perioperative Nurse Adherence to Ergonomic Safety Measures
Authors: Letvak Susan , Apple Brandi , Jenkins Marjorie
Published: February 2024

AORN has identified safety risks unique to the perioperative setting and has developed ergonomic safety measures to help prevent musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. Little is known about adherence to these safety measures or the perceived barriers and facilitators to adherence. This study used a cross‐sectional survey to determine the prevalence of pain and occurrence of musculoskeletal injuries and disorders. We asked perioperative staff members about their perceived barriers and facilitators to adherence with safety measures. A total of 155 perioperative nurses in one health system completed the online survey (55% response rate). Most (93%) had experienced at least one musculoskeletal injury or disorder or related pain. Years worked as a perioperative nurse and having neck pain were associated with safety measure adherence. The most reported barrier to safety measure adherence was inadequate staffing. Study findings highlight the need for increased attention to the physical workload demands in the perioperative setting.
Distinct Composition‐Dependent Topological Hall Effect in Mn2‐xZnxSb
Authors: Nabi Md Rafique Un , Li Yue , te Velthuis Suzanne G. E. , Chhetri Santosh Karki , Upreti Dinesh , Basnet Rabindra , Acharya Gokul , Phatak Charudatta , Hu Jin
Published: February 2024

Spintronics, an evolving interdisciplinary field at the intersection of magnetism and electronics, explores innovative applications of electron charge and spin properties for advanced electronic devices. The topological Hall effect (THE), a key component in spintronics, has gained significance due to emerging theories surrounding noncoplanar chiral spin textures. This study focuses on Mn2‐xZnxSb, a material crystalizing in centrosymmetric space group with rich magnetic phases tunable by Zn contents. Through comprehensive magnetic and transport characterizations, we found that the high‐Zn (x > 0.6) samples display THE which is enhanced with decreasing temperature, while THE in the low‐Zn (x < 0.6) samples show an opposite trend. The coexistence of those distinct temperature dependencies for THE suggests very different magnetic interactions/structures for different compositions and underscores the strong coupling between magnetism and transport in Mn2‐xZnxSb. The findings contribute to understanding topological magnetism in centrosymmetric tetragonal lattices, establishing Mn2‐xZnxSb as a unique platform for exploring tunable transport effects and opening avenues for further exploration in the realm of spintronics.
Association of Muscle Quality and Pain in Adults With Symptomatic Knee Osteoarthritis, Independent of Muscle Strength: Findings From a Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Johnson Alisa J. , Barron Sarah M. , Nichols Jennifer A. , Cruz‐Almeida Yenisel
Published: February 2024

Objective

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of chronic pain in adults and shows wide interindividual variability, with peripheral and central factors contributing to the pain experience. Periarticular factors, such as muscle quality (eg, echo intensity [EI] and shear wave velocity [SWV]), may contribute to knee OA pain; however, the role of muscle quality in OA symptoms has yet to be fully established.

Methods

Twenty‐six adults (age >50 years) meeting clinical criteria for knee OA were included in this cross‐sectional study. Quantitative ultrasound imaging was used to quantify EI and SWV in the rectus femoris of the index leg. Pearson correlations followed by multiple linear regression was used to determine associations between muscle quality and pain, controlling for strength, age, sex, and body mass index.

Results

EI and SWV were significantly associated with movement‐evoked pain (b = 0.452–0.839, P = 0.024–0.029). Clinical pain intensity was significantly associated with SWV (b = 0.45, P = 0.034), as were pressure pain thresholds at the medial (b = −0.41, P = 0.025) and lateral (b = −0.54, P = 0.009) index knee joint line, adjusting for all covariates. Pain interference was significantly associated with knee extension strength (b = −0.51, P = 0.041).

Conclusion

These preliminary findings suggest that EI and SWV may impact knee OA pain and could serve as malleable treatment targets. Findings also demonstrate that muscle quality is a unique construct, distinct from muscle strength, which may impact pain and treatment outcomes. More research is needed to fully understand the role of muscle quality in knee OA.
Drug‐loaded lipid nanoparticles improve the removal rates of the Staphylococcus aureus biofilm
Authors: Qiao Jiaju , Hu Antuo , Zhou Haibo , Lu Zhaoxin , Meng Fanqiang , Shi Changzheng , Bie Xiaomei
Published: February 2024

Biofilms of the foodborne pathogen Staphylococcus aureus show improved resistance to antibiotics and are difficult to eliminate. To enhance antibacteria and biofilm dispersion via extracellular matrix diffusion, a new lipid nanoparticle was prepared, which employed a mixture of phospholipids and a 0.8% surfactin shell. In the lipid nanoparticle, 31.56 μg mL−1 of erythromycin was encapsulated. The lipid nanoparticle size was approximately 52 nm and the zeta‐potential was ‐67 mV, which was measured using a Marvin laser particle size analyzer. In addition, lipid nanoparticles significantly dispersed the biofilms of S. aureus W1, CICC22942, and CICC 10788 on the surface of stainless steel, reducing the total viable count of bacteria in the biofilms by 103 CFU mL−1. In addition, the lipid nanoparticle can remove polysaccharides and protein components from the biofilm matrix. The results of laser confocal microscopy showed that the lipid nanoparticles effectively killed residual bacteria in the biofilms. Thus, to thoroughly eliminate biofilms on material surfaces in food factories to avoid repeated contamination, drug‐lipid nanoparticles present a suitable method to achieve this.
A refined Uni‐vector prime editing system improves genome editing outcomes in mammalian cells
Authors: Huang Ching‐Hui , Chiu Szu‐Ying , Chou Yu‐Chi , Wu Kou‐Juey
Published: February 2024

Prime editing is an advanced technology in CRISPR/Cas research with increasing numbers of improved methodologies. The original multi‐vector method hampers the efficiency and precision of prime editing and also has inherent difficulty in generating homozygous mutations in mammalian cells. To overcome these technical issues, we developed a Uni‐vector prime editing system, wherein the major components for prime editing were constructed in all‐in‐one plasmids, pPE3‐pPuro and pePEmax‐pPuro. The Uni‐vector prime editing plasmids enhance the editing efficiency of prime editing and improved the generation of homozygous mutated mammalian cell lines. The editing efficiency is dependent of the transfection efficiency. Remarkably, the Uni‐vector ePE5max system achieved an impressive editing rate approximately 79% in average, even in cell lines that are traditionally difficult to transfect, such as FaDu cell line. Furthermore, it resulted in a high frequency of homozygous knocked‐in cells, with a rate of 99% in HeLa and 85% in FaDu cells. Together, our Uni‐vector approach simplifies the delivery of editing components and improves the editing efficiency, especially in cells with low transfection efficiency. This approach presents an advancement in the field of prime editing.