bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping secondary substrate‐binding sites on the GH11 xylanase from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Molina Gustavo Avelar , Mendes Luis Felipe Santos , Fuzo Carlos Alessandro , Costa‐Filho Antonio José , Ward Richard John
Published: January 2024

Xylanases are of significant interest for biomass conversion technologies. Here, we investigated the allosteric regulation of xylan hydrolysis by the Bacillus subtilis GH11 endoxylanase. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) in the presence of xylobiose identified binding to the active site and two potential secondary binding sites (SBS) around surface residues Asn54 and Asn151. Arabinoxylan titration experiments with single cysteine mutants N54C and N151C labeled with the thiol‐reactive fluorophore acrylodan or the ESR spin‐label MTSSL validated the MDS results. Ligand binding at the SBS around Asn54 confirms previous reports, and analysis of the second SBS around N151C discovered in the present study includes residues Val98/Ala192/Ser155/His156. Understanding the regulation of xylanases contributes to efforts for industrial decarbonization and to establishing a sustainable energy matrix.
Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score Remission and Low Disease Activity States Discriminate Drug From Placebo and Better Health‐Related Quality of Life
Authors: Jesus Diogo , Henriques Carla , Matos Ana , Doria Andrea , Inês Luís S.
Published: January 2024

Objective

Our objective was to evaluate the ability of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Score (SLE‐DAS) remission and low disease activity (LDA) to discriminate active drug from placebo and to discriminate outcomes in the patients’ perspective (health‐related quality of life [HR‐QoL]) in SLE trials.

Methods

This was a post hoc analysis of the pooled Belimumab in Subjects With SLE (BLISS)‐52 (NCT00424476) and BLISS‐76 (NCT00410384) trials data. SLE‐DAS remission and LDA attainment and discrimination between belimumab and placebo at 52 weeks were compared using chi‐square tests. At week 52, 36‐item Short Form Health Survey (SF‐36) and Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy Fatigue (FACIT‐F) scores were compared between patients attaining SLE‐DAS remission versus nonremission and SLE‐DAS LDA versus non‐LDA using the t‐test and Mann‐Whitney test. Mean changes from week 0 to 52 in SF‐36 and FACIT‐F scores were compared between groups using multivariate regression analysis adjusted for baseline scores.

Results

At week 52, significantly more patients attained SLE‐DAS LDA taking belimumab 1 mg/kg (17.9% vs 13.0%; P = 0.023; odds ratio [OR] 1.459; relative risk [RR] 1.377; number needed to treat [NNT] 20.4) and 10 mg/kg (21.7% vs 13.0%; P < 0.001; OR 1.853; RR 1.668; NNT 11.5) compared with placebo. Likewise, more patients attained SLE‐DAS remission taking belimumab 10 mg/kg compared to placebo (14.7% vs 10.1%; P = 0.019; OR 1.532; RR 1.454; NNT 21.7). At week 52, patients attaining SLE‐DAS remission and LDA presented higher SF‐36 domain and summary scores (all P < 0.001) and FACIT‐F scores (both P < 0.001). Mean improvements from baseline in SF‐36 and FACIT‐F scores were significantly higher in patients achieving SLE‐DAS remission and LDA.

Conclusion

SLE‐DAS remission and LDA showed discriminant ability for identifying patients receiving active drug in SLE clinical trials. Attainment of these SLE‐DAS targets are associated with better HR‐QoL.
Event‐triggered adaptive output feedback regulation of a chain of integrators with an unknown time‐varying delay in the input
Authors: Oh Sang‐Young , Choi Ho‐Lim
Published: January 2024

We consider a global regulation problem for a chain of integrators with an unknown time‐varying input delay by event‐triggered output feedback control. We show that the considered system is globally regulated by the proposed event‐triggered output feedback controller with a dynamic gain‐scaling factor. Moreover, we show that interexecution times are lower bounded and these lower bounds can be increased with our control method. An example is given for clear illustration.
Cellular and Exosomal MicroRNAs: Emerging Clinical Relevance as Targets for Breast Cancer Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Zablon Faith Mokobi , Desai Parth , Dellinger Kristen , Aravamudhan Shyam
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer accounts for the highest cancer cases globally, with 12% of occurrences progressing to metastatic breast cancer with a low survival rate and limited effective early intervention strategies augmented by late diagnosis. Moreover, a low concentration of prognostic and predictive markers hinders disease monitoring. Circulating and exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) have recently shown a considerable interplay in breast cancer, standing out as effective diagnostic and prognostic markers. The primary functions are as gene regulatory agents at the genetic and epigenetic levels. An array of dysregulated miRNAs stimulates cancer‐promoting mechanisms, activating oncogenes and controlling tumor‐suppressing genes and mechanisms. Exosomes are vastly studied extracellular vesicles, carrying, and transporting cargo, including noncoding RNAs with premier roles in oncogenesis. Translocation of miRNAs from the circulation to exosomes, with RNA‐binding proteins in stress‐induced conditions, has shown significant cooperation in function to promote breast cancer. This review examines cellular and exosomal miRNA biogenesis and loading, the clinical implications of their dysregulation, their function in diagnosis, prognosis, and prediction of breast cancer, and in regulating cancer signaling pathways. The influence of cellular and exosomal miRNAs presents clinical significance on breast cancer diagnosis, subtyping, staging, prediction, and disease monitoring during treatment, hence a potent marker for breast cancer.
A Rapid and Straightforward Liquid Metal Patterning Technique on Paper Using Laser Printer for Soft Electronics
Authors: Kim Woochan , Lee Jeong Bong(JB) , Lee Joohyung , Chung Sang Kug , Kim Daeyoung
Published: January 2024

A gallium‐based liquid metal patterning for paper‐based soft electronics is reported. A method is proposed that is rapid and straightforward liquid metal patterning on a printing paper using selective wetting properties obtained by lyophilic and lyophobic coating. The paper is coated with a lyophilic waterproof agent followed by a lyophobic printing toner with a desired pattern in an inverse pattern. Then a sponge roller soaked with liquid metal is rolled and filled into the exposed waterproof agent coating to create the desired pattern. It is believed that this is one of the most convenient yet quite versatile liquid metal patterning methods. The minimum line pattern width, spacing, and patternable angle are 50 μm, 200 μm, and 3°, respectively. To demonstrate versatility, a university symbol and a map shape are coated with liquid metal. The bending, folding, cutting, pasting, and burning of the light‐emitting diode circuit on paper is also demonstrated. Additionally, the deposition of 3 μm Parylene on top of the liquid metal pattern works as a passivation layer, and no damage is noticed when the liquid metal pattern on the paper is repeatedly folded and bent. Finally, a pressure sensor using the proposed method by measuring resistance is demonstrated.
Elucidating Morphology‐Mobility Relationships of Organic Thin Films Through Transfer Learning‐Assisted Multiscale Simulation
Authors: Tan Tianhao , Duan Lian , Wang Dong
Published: January 2024

Understanding the relationship between morphology and charge transport capability in organic thin films is vital for advancements in organic electronics. However, accurately predicting charge mobility in these films is challenging due to the extensive evaluations of transfer integral required. To address this challenge, transfer learning techniques are employed to develop machine learning models capable of efficiently and accurately calculating transfer integrals in organic thin films with grain boundaries and polymorphs. Through machine learning‐assisted multiscale simulations of charge transport, the impact of solution shearing conditions is investigated on the morphology and mobility of organic thin films. The findings reveal that shearing‐induced molecular orientation and pre‐aggregation have a significant influence on film morphology, and a moderate shearing speed combined with a suitable solvent promotes the formation of extended transport networks, leading to higher mobility. The utilization of transfer learning‐accelerated simulation techniques opens up new possibilities for exploring the relationship between solution‐processing conditions, morphology, and charge transport properties of organic thin films. This research provides valuable insights that can be applied to optimize solution‐processing techniques in organic electronics.
A Hierarchical Energy Dissipated Structure Enabled Strong, Ultra‐Tough, and Sustainable Adhesives
Authors: Fu Yubing , Chen Song , Chen Xinyu , Zheng Haixun , Yan Xueling , Liu Zelin , Wang Mengtao , Liu Lan
Published: January 2024

Sustainable adhesives with simultaneous high strength and excellent ductility are important but still challenging. Here, an epoxy adhesive with simultaneously strong, tough, and sustainable features by designing a new hierarchical energy‐dissipated cross‐linking structure is reported: an annular structure containing quadruple internal B─N coordination boronic esters (AQBN). Under small strain, the AQBN structure is rigid to enhance the tensile strength of the adhesive. With medium strain applied, its non‐coplanar ring and internal quadruple B─N coordination can orderly open, providing mechanical energy dissipation and excellent ductility. Therefore, this multilevel structure can endow epoxy adhesives with both high strength and toughness. Besides, the rapid dynamic exchange and internal B─N coordination in boronic esters enable the adhesives to have good sustainability and environmental tolerance, respectively. As a result, the epoxy adhesives exhibit simultaneous high adhesive strength (18.5 MPa), outstanding toughness (work of debonding of 29692 N m−1), good chemical/physical recyclability, and excellent environmental reliability (humidity, water, high/ultralow temperature, and organic solvents). This work provides a new strategy for balancing the strength, toughness, and sustainability of adhesives.
Regulating Lithium Nucleation at the Electrolyte/Electrode Interface in Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Lin Liang , Zheng Hongfei , Luo Qing , Lin Jie , Wang Laisen , Xie Qingshui , Peng Dong‐Liang , Lu Jun
Published: January 2024

Lithium (Li) metal has emerged as a viable alternative anode material to address the current energy density shortfalls in Li batteries. However, its integration into widespread implementation remains somewhat constrained due to the substandard reversibility issues and safety concerns arising from erratic Li deposition. To effectively tackle these obstacles, considerable endeavors have been exerted to modulate the morphology of Li deposition. Nevertheless, it is exceedingly challenging for Li nuclei that tend to dendritic growth thermodynamically to transform into dense Li morphologies during their growth process. Therefore, it is crucial to understand what influences the formation process of Li nuclei and how to improve the state of Li nuclei. Herein, Li nucleation mechanisms involving mass transport across the solid electrolyte interface from electrolyte to electrode and electrode interfacial reactions are elucidated. Inspired by the understanding of Li nucleation, the corresponding design principles, including enhancing and homogenizing mass transport, stabilizing solid electrolyte interface film, and regulating surface interaction/selection, are summarized for optimizing Li nucleation and further inducing dendrite‐free Li deposition. In light of the competition among these design principles, a perspective on the existing challenges and opportunities for further promoting the application of Li metal batteries is proposed.
Mechanics‐Resilient HA/SIS‐Based Composite Scaffolds with ROS‐Scavenging and Bacteria‐Resistant Capacity to Address Infected Bone Regeneration
Authors: Song Zelong , Yu Haichao , Hou Linhao , Dong Yuan , Hu Miaomiao , Wei Pengfei , Wang Wenchao , Qian Dingfei , Cao Shiqi , Zheng Zhirong , Xu Zhaoning , Zhao Bo , Huang Yiqian , Jing Wei , Zhang Xuesong
Published: January 2024

To address and regenerate infected bone defects complicated by issues such as inflammation and bone resorption, and to promote bone regeneration, this study focuses on the development of a composite scaffold with reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐scavenging and bacteria‐resistant properties. The composite scaffold integrates a self‐assembled small intestinal submucosa (SIS) hydrogel with pre‐adsorbed hydroxyapatite (HA) particles and tannic acid (TA), demonstrating distinctive mechanical resilience and porous structures, suitable for filling irregular cavities and facilitating cell infiltration, while exhibiting a broad‐spectrum of antibacterial efficacy and robust ROS‐scavenging capacity for tissue regeneration. RNA‐sequencing analysis indicates the underlying mechanism revealing the disrupting of arginine and alanine amino acid biosynthesis. Furthermore, the composite scaffold demonstrates excellent cytocompatibility, with cell viability exceeding 70%. Remarkably, it demonstrates exceptional anti‐inflammatory performances (≈5‐fold to the control). In an infected bone defect model, the composite scaffold facilitates superior bone regeneration, being ≈5‐fold greater than the control, while maintaining a conducive environment for cell adhesion and infiltration without scaffold collapse. This multifunctional composite scaffold emerges as a promising candidate for combating infections in bone regeneration, showcasing its potential in addressing complex bone‐related challenges.
Multiscale Modeling of Magnetoelectric Nanoparticles for the Analysis of Spatially Selective Neural Stimulation
Authors: Kumari Prachi , Wunderlich Hannah , Milojkovic Aleksandra , López Jorge Estudillo , Fossati Arianna , Jahanshahi Ali , Kozielski Kristen
Published: January 2024

The growing field of nanoscale neural stimulators offers a potential alternative to larger scale electrodes for brain stimulation. Nanoelectrodes made of magnetoelectric nanoparticles (MENPs) can provide an alternative to invasive electrodes for brain stimulation via magnetic‐to‐electric signal transduction. However, the magnetoelectric effect is a complex phenomenon and challenging to probe experimentally. Consequently, quantifying the stimulation voltage provided by MENPs is difficult, hindering precise regulation and control of neural stimulation and limiting their practical implementation as wireless nanoelectrodes. The work herein develops an approach to determine the stimulation voltage for MENPs in a finite element analysis (FEA) model. This model is informed by atomistic material properties from ab initio Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations and supplemented by experimentally obtainable nanoscale parameters. This process overcomes the need for experimentally inaccessible characteristics for magnetoelectricity, and offers insights into the effect of the more manageable variables, such as the driving magnetic field. The model's voltage is compared to in vivo experimental data to assess its validity. With this, a predictable and controllable stimulation is simulated by MENPs, computationally substantiating their spatial selectivity. This work proposes a generalizable and accessible method for evaluating the stimulation capability of magnetoelectric nanostructures, facilitating their realization as wireless neural stimulators in the future.
Intense THz Generation with New Organic NLO Crystal NMBA
Authors: Ludlow Daisy J.H. , Palmer Bruce Wayne H. , Green Natalie K. , Ho Sin‐Hang Enoch , Wayment Coriantumr Z. , Kelleher Brenan M. , Barlow Connor D. , Rollans Olivia N. , Hunter Brittan P. , Rader Claire , Lutz Matthew J. , Manwaring Tanner , Smith Stacey J. , Michaelis David J. , Johnson Jeremy A.
Published: January 2024

Large crystal growth and characterization of the optical and terahertz (THz) properties of organic nonlinear optical (NLO) crystal NMBA (4‐Nitro‐4′‐methylbenzylidene aniline) is presented. The reported method of crystal growth consistently produces high‐quality single crystals. The THz generation efficiency and optical properties of NMBA to other THz generation crystals including BNA and MNA are compared. The low THz absorptions that make NMBA an ideal source for THz time‐domain spectroscopy are highlighted.
Hybrid Printed Rigidity‐Programmable Substrate/Liquid Metal 3D Circuits Toward Stretchable Electronics
Authors: Liu Yan , Chen Xing , Jin Yuan , Zhang Aibing , Zhang Minghua , Hua Licheng , Du Jianke , Li Guangyong
Published: January 2024

Stretchable electronics have the unique capability of 3D (three dimensional) deformation, overcoming the brittleness of traditional inorganic electronics. However, during large deformations, different scale strains between the rigid and stretchable components lead to mismatch, causing interconnect failures. Therefore, the development of the rigidity‐programmable substrate with effective strain shielding capabilities has become a research hotspot. Furthermore, the exponential growth in electronic density presents challenges in the circuit design of stretchable electronics. The urgent need is to develop highly integrated stretchable electronic systems. In this study, a highly integrated stretchable pulse sensor with effective strain shielding capabilities using hybrid 3D printing technology is developed, which comprises electronic chips, a rigidity‐programmable substrate/encapsulation layer printed by using PSC (polydimethylsiloxane/silica‐nanoparticles composite)‐based ink, and LM (liquid metal)‐based 3D circuits. First, the PSC‐based ink is optimized to enhance the strain shielding effectiveness of the rigidity‐programmable substrate. Meanwhile, 3D printing parameters are optimized to achieve high printing precision with minimum line widths below 100 µm. The resulting stretchable pulse sensor demonstrated good mechanical and electrical stability under complex 3D deformations, including bending, twisting, and stretching. The PSC region strain of the sensor is only ≈2% when the global strain is up to ≈65%, which exhibited effective strain shielding capabilities.
In Situ Active Site Refreshing of Electro‐Catalytic Materials for Ultra‐Durable Hydrogen Evolution at Elevated Current Density
Authors: Li Qin , Chen Chang , Luo Wenshu , Yu Xu , Chang Ziwei , Kong Fantao , Zhu Libo , Huang Yifan , Tian Han , Cui Xiangzhi , Shi Jianlin
Published: January 2024

Enhancing the durability of catalysts is of critical significance to industrialize green hydrogen production. Herein, a novel active site in situ refreshing strategy is proposed and demonstrated to fabricate highly active and ultra‐durable hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electro‐catalytic material by HER activation. Briefly, a composite catalytic material is synthesized, which features Ni(PO3)2 active sites being embedded inside the amorphous Mo compound matrix (named NiMoO‐P). The Mo compound matrix undergoes gradual dissolution during HER followed by a dynamic equilibrium between the dissolution and deposition of the amorphous matrix. This process promotes the continuous exposure of insoluble Ni(PO3)2 and Ni2P partially converted from Ni (PO3) 2 in situ on the surface during HER activation. Thus, activated catalyst exhibits excellent HER performance featuring an extremely high current density of 1500 mA cm−2 at a rather low overpotential of 340 mV, and more attractively, an ultra‐long durability for hydrogen evolution for at least 1000 h at an industrial‐applicable current density of 900 mA cm−2. The mechanisms for the especially high HER performance are attributed to the exposure and continuous refreshing of Ni(PO3)2 and the in situ formed Ni2P during the HER process based on the DFT calculations and quasi‐in situ Raman spectroscopic monitoring.
Engineering intelligent chiral silver cluster‐assembled materials for temperature‐triggered dynamic circularly polarized luminescence
Authors: Wang Jia‐Yin , Yuan Jia‐Wang , Liu Xue‐Mei , Liu Ying‐Jie , Bai Feng , Dong Xi‐Yan , Zang Shuang‐Quan
Published: January 2024

The development of stimuli‐responsive circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) materials is quite attractive but challenging. Here, a pair of atomically precise enantiomers R/S‐Ag20 nanoclusters has been synthesized using chiral acid ligands. And then, stimuli‐responsive CPL materials were developed by assembling the chiral silver nanoclusters with an achiral bridging ligand. The atomically precise silver cluster‐assembled materials produce CPL with a dissymmetry factor (|glum|) of 1 × 10−3, through the high‐efficiency chiral induction process. More interestingly, the single CPL band at room temperature could quickly transform into highly separated dual CPL emissions at low temperature. This study provides a new strategy for the rational functionalization of chiral silver clusters in preparing cluster‐based CPL emitters and enriches the types of stimuli‐responsive CPL materials.
Magnetic resonance imaging of trickle flow
Authors: Fathiganjehlou Ali , Buist Kay A. , Peters E. A. J. F. (Frank) , de Graaf Larry A. H. J. , Kuipers J. A. M. (Hans)
Published: January 2024

Trickle bed reactors (TBR) are widely used in the chemical industries. These reactors involve gas and liquid flow through a catalyst‐packed bed. For optimal TBR performance, it is crucial to achieve a uniform distribution of gas and liquid among the catalyst particles. However, in multitubular reactors with slender tubes, flow maldistribution near the tube walls is a common issue. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of local phase and flow distribution is essential for designing and operating reactors with slender tubes. This article employs Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to characterize the three‐dimensional distribution of the two‐phase trickle flow within a slender tube. Three quantities are characterized: gas‐liquid‐solid distribution, particle wetting efficiency, and the flow field. Structure and flow MRI images are processed to calculate these quantities. Additionally, a novel postprocessing technique is introduced to determine the liquid distribution over individual particle surfaces. This distribution is determined at several axial and radial positions.
Human–Robot Collaboration in Modern Agriculture: A Review of the Current Research Landscape
Authors: Yerebakan Mustafa Ozkan , Hu Boyi
Published: January 2024

Recent years have witnessed an increased utilization of robotics systems in agricultural settings. While fully autonomous farming holds great potential, most systems fall short of meeting the demands of present‐day agricultural operations. The use of human labor or teleoperated robots is also limited due to the physiological constraints of humans and the shortcomings of interfaces used to control robots. To harness the strengths of autonomous capabilities and endurance of robots, as well as the decision‐making capabilities of humans, human–robot collaboration (HRC) has emerged as a viable approach. By identifying the various applications of HRC in current research and the infrastructure employed to develop them, interested parties seeking to utilize collaborative robotics in agriculture can gain a better understanding of the possibilities and challenges they may encounter. In this review, an overview of existing HRC applications in the agricultural domain is provided. Additionally, general trends and weaknesses are identified within the research corpus. This review serves as a presentation of the state‐of‐the‐art research of HRC in agriculture for professionals considering the adoption of HRC. Robotics engineers can utilize this review as a resource for easily accessing information on the hardware, software, and algorithms employed in building HRC systems for agriculture.
Development of Better Aptamers: Structured Library Approaches, Selection Methods, and Chemical Modifications
Authors: Brown Alex , Brill Jake , Amini Ryan , Nurmi Connor , Li Yingfu
Published: January 2024

Systematic evolution of ligands by exponential enrichment (SELEX) has been used to discover thousands of aptamers since its development in 1990. Aptamers are short single‐stranded oligonucleotides capable of binding to targets with high specificity and selectivity through structural recognition. While aptamers offer advantages over other molecular recognition elements such as their ease of production, smaller size, extended shelf‐life, and lower immunogenicity, they have yet to show significant success in real‐world applications. By analyzing the importance of structured library designs, reviewing different SELEX methodologies, and the effects of chemical modifications, we provide a comprehensive overview on the production of aptamers for applications in drug delivery systems, therapeutics, diagnostics, and molecular imaging.
H* Species Regulation by Mn‐Co(OH)2 for Efficient Nitrate Electro‐reduction in Neutral Solution
Authors: Liang Shaozhen , Teng Xue , Xu Heng , Chen Lisong , Shi Jianlin
Published: January 2024

During the electrocatalytic NO3− reduction reaction (NO3−RR) under neutral condition, the activation of H2O to generate H* and the inhibition of inter‐H* species binding, are critically important but remain challenging for suppressing the non‐desirable hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Here, a Mn‐doped Co(OH)2 (named as Mn‐Co(OH)2) has been synthesized by in situ reconstruction in the electrolyte, which is able to dissociate H2O molecules but inhibits the binding of H* species between each other owing to the increased interatomic spacing by the Mn‐doping. The Mn‐Co(OH)2 electrocatalyst offers a faradaic efficiency (FE) of as high as 98.9±1.7% at −0.6 V vs. the reversible hydrogen electrode (RHE) and an energy efficiency (EE) of 49.90±1.03% for NH3 production by NO3−RR, which are among the highest of the recently reported state‐of‐the‐art catalysts in neutral electrolyte. Moreover, negligible degradation at −200 mA cm−2 has been found for at least 500 h, which is the longest catalytic durations ever reported. This work paves a novel approach for the design and synthesis of efficient NO3−RR electrocatalysts.
The osteology of Shuvosaurus inexpectatus, a shuvosaurid pseudosuchian from the Upper Triassic Post Quarry, Dockum Group of Texas, USA
Authors: Nesbitt Sterling J. , Chatterjee Sankar
Published: January 2024

A vast array of pseudosuchian body plans evolved during the diversification of the group in the Triassic Period, but few can compare to the toothless, long‐necked, and bipedal shuvosaurids. Members of this clade possess theropod‐like character states mapped on top of more plesiomorphic pseudosuchian character states, complicating our understanding of the evolutionary history of the skeleton. One taxon in this clade, Shuvosaurus inexpectatus has been assigned to various theropod dinosaur groups based on a partial skull and referred material and its postcranium was assigned to a different taxon in Pseudosuchia. After the discovery of a skeleton of a shuvosaurid with a Shuvosaurus‐like skull and a pseudosuchian postcranial skeleton, it became clear Shuvosaurus inexpectatus was a pseudosuchian. Nevertheless, a number of questions have arisen about what skeletal elements belonged to Shuvosaurus inexpectatus, the identification of skull bones, and the resulting implication for pseudosuchian evolution. Here, we detail the anatomy of the skeleton Shuvosaurus inexpectatus through a critical lens, parse out the bones that belong to the taxon or those that clearly do not or may not belong to the taxon, rediagnose the taxon based on these revisions, and compare the taxon to other archosaurs. We find that Shuvosaurus inexpectatus possesses similar anatomy to other shuvosaurids but parts of the skeleton of the taxon clarifies the anatomy of the group given that they are preserved in Shuvosaurus inexpectatus but not in others. Shuvosaurus inexpectatus is represented by at least 14 individuals from the West Texas Post Quarry (Adamanian holochronozone) and all Shuvosaurus inexpectatus skeletal material from the locality pertains to skeletally immature individuals. All of the skeletons are missing most of the neural arches, ribs, and most of the forelimb. We only recognize Shuvosaurus inexpectatus from the Post Quarry and all other material assigned to the taxon previously is better assigned to the broader group Shuvosauridae.
Modulation of Interleukin‐23 Signaling With Guselkumab in Biologic‐Naive Patients Versus Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitor–Inadequate Responders With Active Psoriatic Arthritis
Authors: Siebert Stefan , Coates Laura C. , Schett Georg , Raychaudhuri Siba P. , Chen Warner , Gao Sheng , Seridi Loqmane , Chakravarty Soumya D. , Shawi May , Lavie Frederic , Sharaf Mohamed , Zimmermann Miriam , Kollmeier Alexa P. , Xu Xie L. , Rahman Proton , Mease Philip J. , Deodhar Atul
Published: January 2024

Objective

We assessed and compared immunologic differences and associations with clinical response to guselkumab, a fully human interleukin (IL)–23p19 subunit inhibitor, in participants with active psoriatic arthritis (PsA) who were biologic‐naive or had inadequate response to tumor necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi‐IR).

Methods

Serum biomarker levels at baseline and after treatment with guselkumab 100 mg every 8 weeks were compared between biologic‐naive (n = 251) and TNFi‐IR (n = 93) subgroups identified in the pooled DISCOVER‐1/DISCOVER‐2/COSMOS data set. Baseline biomarker levels determined by achievement of week 24 clinical responses (≥75%/90% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index [PASI 75/90], Investigator's Global Assessment [IGA] of psoriasis score 0/1 and ≥2‐point improvement], ≥20% improvement in American College of Rheumatology criteria [ACR20]) were compared between prior treatment subgroups.

Results

Baseline IL‐22, TNFα, and beta defensin‐2 (BD‐2) levels were significantly lower in biologic‐naive than in TNFi‐IR participants. With guselkumab, week 24 IL‐17A, IL‐17F, IL‐22, serum amyloid A, C‐reactive protein, IL‐6, and BD‐2 levels were significantly reduced from baseline in biologic‐naive and TNFi‐IR participants (≥1.4‐fold difference, nominal P < 0.05). Clinical responders to guselkumab exhibited significantly higher baseline levels of several biomarkers than nonresponders (IL‐17A, IL‐17F, BD‐2 in biologic‐naive PASI 90 responders; IL‐17A, BD‐2 in TNFi‐IR IGA 0/1 responders; IL‐22, BD‐2 in TNFi‐IR PASI 90 responders [nominal P < 0.05]) and trended higher in TNFi‐IR ACR20 responders.

Conclusion

Guselkumab modulates IL‐23 signaling and provides consistent pharmacodynamic effects in both biologic‐naive and TNFi‐IR PsA patients. Significantly elevated baseline IL‐22, TNFα, and BD‐2 levels and associations between baseline IL‐22, IL‐17A, and BD‐2 levels and skin responses to guselkumab suggest greater dysregulation of IL‐23/Th17 signaling in patients with TNFi‐IR.
Stochastic 3D Modeling of Nanostructured NVP/C Active Material Particles for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Neumann Matthias , Philipp Tom , Häringer Marcel , Neusser Gregor , Binder Joachim R. , Kranz Christine
Published: January 2024

A data‐driven modeling approach is presented to quantify the influence of morphology on effective properties in nanostructured sodium vanadium phosphate
/ carbon composites (NVP/C), which are used as cathode material in sodium‐ion batteries. This approach is based on the combination of advanced imaging techniques, experimental nanostructure characterization and stochastic modeling of the 3D nanostructure consisting of NVP, carbon and pores. By 3D imaging and subsequent post‐processing involving image segmentation, the spatial distribution of NVP is resolved in 3D, and the spatial distribution of carbon and pores is resolved in 2D. Based on this information, a parametric stochastic model, specifically a Pluri‐Gaussian model, is calibrated to the 3D morphology of the nanostructured NVP/C particles. Model validation is performed by comparing the nanostructure of simulated NVP/C composites with image data in terms of morphological descriptors which have not been used for model calibration. Finally, the stochastic model is used for predictive simulation to quantify the effect of varying the amount of carbon while keeping the amount of NVP constant. The presented methodology opens new possibilities for a ressource‐efficient optimization of the morphology of NVP/C particles by modeling and simulation.
Mutation and evolution: Conceptual possibilities
Authors: Livnat Adi , Love Alan C.
Published: January 2024

Although random mutation is central to models of evolutionary change, a lack of clarity remains regarding the conceptual possibilities for thinking about the nature and role of mutation in evolution. We distinguish several claims at the intersection of mutation, evolution, and directionality and then characterize a previously unrecognized category: complex conditioned mutation. Empirical evidence in support of this category suggests that the historically famous fluctuation test should be revisited, and new experiments should be undertaken with emerging experimental techniques to facilitate detecting mutation rates within specific loci at an ultra‐high, individual base pair resolution.
Regulating the interfacial chemistry of graphite in ethyl acetate‐based electrolyte for low‐temperature Li‐ion batteries
Authors: Che Ling , Hu Zhaowen , Zhang Tao , Dai Peiming , Chen Chengyu , Shen Chao , Huang Haitao , Jiao Lifang , Jin Ting , Xie Keyu
Published: January 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries suffer from severe capacity loss and even fail to work under subzero temperatures, which is mainly due to the sluggish Li+ transportation in the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) and desolvation process. Ethyl acetate (EA) is a highly promising solvent for low‐temperature electrolytes, yet it has poor compatibility with graphite (Gr) anode. Here, we tuned the interfacial chemistry of EA‐based electrolytes via synergies of anions. ODFB− with low solvation numbers, participates in the solvation sheath, significantly reducing the desolvation energy. Meanwhile, combined with the high dissociation of FSI−, the reduction of both anions constructs an inorganic‐rich SEI to improve interfacial stability. The electrolyte enables Gr anode to deliver a capacity of 293 mA h g−1 and 2.5 Ah LiFePO4||Gr pouch cell to exhibit 96.85% capacity retention at −20°C. Remarkably, LiFePO4||Gr pouch cell with the designed electrolyte can still retain 66.28% of its room‐temperature capacity even at −40°C.
Osme Bond: Geometric and Energetic Features in the Adducts between OsO4 and Lewis Bases
Authors: Calabrese Miriam , Pizzi Andrea , Daolio Andrea , Beccaria Roberta , Lo Iacono Cristina , Scheiner Steve , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: January 2024

Adducts between OsO4 and Lewis bases exert a role in important oxidation processes such as epoxidation and dihydroxylation. It has been shown that the attractive interaction driving the formation of these adducts is a σ‐hole bond involving the metal as the electrophilic species; the term Osme Bond (OmB) was proposed for designating it. Here some new adducts between OsO4 and various bases have been characterized through single crystal x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and computational studies (density functional theory, DFT), confirming the existence of a robust correlation between σ‐hole interaction energy and deformation of the tetrahedral geometry of OsO4. Also, some adducts formed by RuO4 with nucleophiles were investigated computationally.
A Nanoplatform Based on Pillar[5]arene Nanovalves for Combined Drug Delivery and Enhanced Antitumor Activity
Authors: Jiang Jianfeng , Su Zhilian , He Qin , Duan Wengui , Huang Yan , Liu Luzhi
Published: January 2024

Modern nanodrug delivery technologies offer new approaches in the fight against cancer. However, due to the heterogeneity of tumors and side effects of anticancer drugs, monotherapies are less effective. Herein, we report a novel pH and light dual‐responsive nanodrug delivery platform. The platform was formed by sulfonate‐modified gold nanoparticles loaded with the anticancer drugs doxorubicin (DOX) and glucose oxidase (GOx) and then covered by water‐soluble pillar[5]arene as a nanovalve. The nanovalve formed by the host‐guest interaction between pillar[5]arene and the sulfonic acid group grafted onto the gold nanoparticle increased the drug loading capacity of the nanoplatform and enabled sustained release of the drug in a simulated weakly acidic tumor environment. The released GOx can consume intracellular glucose, namely, starvation therapy, while the generated hydrogen peroxide can further kill tumor cells, complementing DOX chemotherapy. Gold nanoparticles have good photothermal conversion ability and can enhance the drugs release rate under specific wavelengths of light irradiation. The results of in vitro and in vivo experiments showed that this novel nanodrug delivery platform has good biocompatibility and better therapeutic efficacy relative to monotherapy. This study successfully developed a combined chemo/starvation therapy strategy with good tumor suppression, providing a new approach for cancer treatment.
Direct Analysis of Whole Blood by a Disposable Monolithic Column Mass Spectrometry Analysis Kit†
Authors: Wang Wenxin , Han Jin , Zheng Yutong , Wang Haijie , Zhu Chengbiao , Li Yongyi , Feng Yuqi , Wei Zhenwei , Wang Xiangyu
Published: January 2024

Comprehensive Summary

A monolithic column‐based mass spectrometry (MS) analysis kit was prepared for whole blood analysis with MS. The kit is disposable and can be used for purification, storage, transportation and direct analysis of whole blood. The kit mainly consists of a capillary for quantitative microsampling, a cation exchange monolithic column for purification and storage, and a syringe for loading sample. This kit is very friendly to various users that one can easily siphon the blood in the kit followed by rapid clean‐up. We established a quantitative method using the kit with a limit detection as low as 0.33 nmol/L, and achieved more than five orders of magnitude enhancement in sensitivity compared to direct nanoelectrospray ionization MS analysis. The column can avoid analyte exposure to environment, which helps the storage of the sample for laboratory analysis. The relative standard deviation of immediate blood analysis and storage blood analysis within 10 d was less than 10%. This method has been successfully applied to the quantitative analysis of procainamide hydrochloride in 2 μL rat blood. These results indicate that this disposable kit does have the potential to achieve highly sensitive quantitative MS analysis in biological samples, which is expected to become a cost‐effective and powerful tool for in vitro diagnostics.
Gastrointestinal perforation associated with bevacizumab in metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Fang Kunpeng , Wang Jie , Yuan Jianyong , Sui Chengjun , Zhi Jiajun , Xia Yong , Sun Minmin
Published: January 2024

Objective

To investigate the risk factors for gastrointestinal perforation in metastatic colorectal cancer patients receiving bevacizumab.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 217 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer receiving bevacizumab to investigate the risk factors for gastrointestinal perforation. Three patients occurred intestinal perforation after receiving bevacizumab. We analyzed the clinical characteristics of three patients with intestinal perforation.

Results

All patients receiving bevacizumab. Three of 217 patients occurred intestinal perforation after receiving bevacizumab. Patient no. 1 was 70 years old, female, having history of intestinal obstruction. The patient occurred intestinal perforation and ultimately died after receiving bevacizumab. Patient no. 2 was 59 years old, female, having history of intestinal obstruction. The patient occurred intestinal perforation after receiving bevacizumab, and recovered smoothly after symptomatic treatment. Patient no. 3 was 60 years old, female, having history of intestinal obstruction. The patient occurred intestinal perforation and ultimately died after receiving bevacizumab.

Conclusions

Patients with advanced colorectal cancer receiving bevacizumab are at risk of gastrointestinal perforation. The patient's age, gender and history of bowel obstruction may be associated with gastrointestinal perforation.
Pharmacokinetics of Ubrogepant in Healthy Japanese and White Adults
Authors: Boinpally Ramesh , Trugman Joel
Published: January 2024

Ubrogepant is a calcitonin gene‐related peptide receptor antagonist indicated for the acute treatment of migraine with or without aura in adults. The objectives of this study were to evaluate (1) single‐dose pharmacokinetics (PK) and dose proportionality of ubrogepant in Japanese participants, (2) the safety and tolerability of ubrogepant in healthy Japanese and White participants, and (3) to compare the PK of ubrogepant in Japanese versus White participants. A total of 48 participants were enrolled into 4 cohorts (N = 12 [9 active + 3 placebo] per cohort). A single dose was administered on Day 1 following an overnight fast to assess the PK of ubrogepant at 3 dose levels and test dose proportionality between 25 and 100 mg in Japanese participants. White participants were randomly assigned to ubrogepant (100 mg) or placebo. Dose proportionality was observed in the dose range of 25‐100 mg in Japanese participants. Systemic exposure was 20% lower in Japanese participants as compared with White participants, but this difference is unlikely to be clinically relevant. Single doses of ubrogepant (25‐100 mg) had a safety profile similar to placebo, and no differences in the safety profile of ubrogepant 100 mg were observed between Japanese versus White participants.
Screen‐printed dual‐band wearable textile antenna incorporated with EBG structure for WBAN communications
Authors: Arulmurugan S. , Suresh Kumar T. R. , Alex Z. C.
Published: January 2024

A dual‐band, wearable coplanar microstrip patch antenna (CPW) integrated with electromagnetic bandgap structure (EBG) to operate dual wireless bands at 2.48 GHz industrial, scientific, and medical band (ISM) and 5.2 GHz WLAN. The proposed textile wearable antenna and EBG structure are screen‐printed using silver conductive ink on the cotton polyester substrate (εr = 1.6) for flexible wearable applications. A 3 × 3 EBG array is realized by a concentric square patch surrounded by the annular square ring to reduce back radiation and increase the forward gain and front‐back ratio. The proposed EBG‐backed antenna, compared with the conventional CPW‐fed antenna, improves forward gain from 2.18 to 6.59 dB at 2.48 GHz and 3.5 to 7.03 dB at 5.2 GHz. Moreover, the EBG array is used to isolate the human body from the antenna and reduces the specific absorption rate (SAR). The antenna is performed with a human phantom tissue model, which exhibits a specific absorption rate of 0.12 W/kg, and 0.260 W/kg for 1 g tissue at 2.48 GHz and 5.2 GHz, respectively.
Conflicting perspectives on ecosystem conservation in a cultivated floodplain: The role of science and the challenge of pluralism in decision‐making in Lac Saint‐Pierre (Quebec, Canada)
Authors: Lévesque Ann , Bissonnette Jean‐François , Vansintjan Aaron , Dupras Jérôme
Published: January 2024

By generating and explaining facts, science holds an important role in environmental policy decision‐making. However, scientific knowledge is often framed as objective and neutral in policy debates, which can be challenged by stakeholders who have a different view of the issue. To counter this situation, we propose a novel scientific approach to analyze problems that are highly contested and seem difficult to resolve, that is, wicked problems. Our study combined post‐normal science and environmental justice perspectives to shed light on a wicked problem—the largely unsuccessful efforts to rehabilitate yellow perch stocks in Lac Saint‐Pierre (LSP), Quebec, Canada. The combination of these two perspectives allows us to investigate the causes of the decrease of yellow perch stocks and the social and institutional barriers to rehabilitation—which can only be overcome if the injustice perceived by different stakeholders is overcome. Our study presents an approach that addresses uncertainties, integrates various knowledge forms, reassesses decision‐making procedures, and highlights inequalities within a specified territory. The research also underlines the importance of the qualitative dimension in the development of knowledge and the need to address equity in the development of environmental policies.
Chloride‐Induced Selectfluor Activated Fluorothiolation of Alkenes to Access β‐Fluorothioether
Authors: Han Jine , Yang Jiacheng , He Yunpeng , Niu Tengfei , Zou Lianghua
Published: January 2024

This study describes a chloride‐induced three‐component fluorothiolation of alkenes with arylthiophenols and selectfluor, facilitating efficient synthesis of β‐fluorothioether. The protocol exhibits good functional group compatibility, mild reaction conditions, good yield, and readily available reagents. Importantly, this study presents an unprecedented radical‐involved process for fluorothiolation.
Coke Formation and Zeolite Catalyst Effects on Products from Co‐pyrolysis of Waste Tyre and Poplar Wood in a Semi‐Batch Reactor under N2 Atmosphere
Authors: Hoseini Milad , Atashi Farid , Gholizadeh Mortaza , Clarens Frederic
Published: January 2024

Herein, it is aimed to investigate the effect of zeolite catalyst on the co‐pyrolysis process of waste tyre and poplar wood. A laboratory‐sized reactor is used to pyrolyze 15 g of sample at 500 °C under atmospheric pressure. In the results, it is indicated that co‐pyrolysis affects the properties of the products. Comparing to single feedstock, the co‐pyrolysis enhances the yields of bio‐oil, while reducing the formation of char. The pyrolysis of poplar wood produces 23.3 wt% of bio‐oil, while the pyrolysis of tyre yields 25 wt% of bio‐oil. However, it is 31.29 wt% for the co‐pyrolysis process. Higher content of valuable compounds are formed in the bio‐oil, which improve the fuel properties of the bio‐oil. The zeolite catalyst alters the characteristics of the products obtained from the co‐pyrolysis process. The gaseous products show a decrease in the concentrations of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when the catalyst is present. The liquid product analysis reveals the presence of light aromatics such as ethyl benzene and light linear compounds such as alkanes including octane, hexane, etc. The analysis of the catalysts suggests that a very small amount of coke deposits on the catalyst due to the slight increase in carbon content.
Boron Minerals with Different Crystal Structures as Performance Manipulators in Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Topçu Mehmet Ali , Karabiber Abdulkerim , Koç Feyyaz , Sarılmaz Adem , Özel Faruk
Published: January 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) are energy generation devices that naturally convert mechanical movements into electrical energy through both triboelectric and electrostatic effects. The electricity generation capacity of silicone/boron minerals‐based composite and glass fiber‐based vertical contact separation mode TENGs enhances by adjusting the triboelectrification characteristics by embedding natural boron minerals (NBO) such as borax, colemanite, and ulexite additives. Considering the generated voltages, the NBO‐doped silicone and glass fiber‐based TENGs offer the maximum performance with 2.5 wt% borax, 7.5 wt% colemanite, and 5 wt% ulexite. The highest power density of corresponding NBO‐doped silicone glass fiber TENGs finds as 25.4, 26.03, and 32.03 W m−2, respectively. This work demonstrates that using boron significantly improves the TENG's power and charging capacities fabricated with silicone and glass fiber. Thus, the clean and safe generation of energy will contribute to the reduction of fossil fuel consumption and help protect the environment.