bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injectable Hydrogel Based on Enzymatic Initiation of Keratin Methacrylate for Controlled Exosome Release in Intervertebral Disc Degeneration Therapy
Authors: Chen Linjie , Peng Ke , Huang He , Gong Zehua , Huang Jinyi , Mohamed Abdihafid Mohamud , Chen Qizhu , Sow Wan Ting , Guo Liting , Kwan Kenny Yat Hong , Li Bin , Khan Moonis Ali , Makvnadi Pooyan , Jones Morgan , Shen Shuying , Wang Xiangyang , Ma Chao , Li Huaqiong , Wu Aimin
Published: April 2024

The treatment of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell‐derived exosomes has shown success in alleviating inflammation and restoring the extracellular matrix (ECM), however, challenges persist due to the deficiency in mechanical support and controlled release. Herein, a carbon‐carbon double bond modified keratin (KeMA) is synthesized by 2‐isocyanatoethyl modification for exosomes wrapping. This injectable KeMA hydrogel, initiated by a biocompatible glucose/ glucose oxidase/ horse radish peroxidase enzymatic cascade reaction with acetylacetone and N‐vinylpyrrolidone, displayed rapid gelation, resembling nucleus pulposus (NP) elasticity, and excellent cytocompatibility. In vitro studies showcased that the exosomes‐loaded KeMA hydrogel (Exo@KeMA) enhanced exosome release kinetics, suppressed inflammation, fostered extracellular matrix (ECM) regeneration, and reinstated NP biomechanics. RNA‐seq analysis indicated Exo@KeMA's effects involved PI3K‐Akt signaling for matrix regeneration and NF‐κB signaling inhibition for anti‐inflammation. In vivo IVDD rat models demonstrated Exo@KeMA attenuated inflammation, maintained NP water content, preserved disc height, and promoted structural regeneration. This research introduces an injectable KeMA hydrogel as a promising therapy for IVDD, by facilitating biomechanics restoration, anti‐inflammatory response, and ECM regeneration.
Cascade Carrier‐Free Nanoparticles Forming In Situ Nanovaccines for Synergistic Photothermal‐Immunotherapy of Cancer
Authors: Huang Chenlu , Wang Hanyong , Yang Xinyu , Yu Qingyu , Wang Hai , Zhang Linhua , Zhao Yanli , Zhu Dunwan
Published: April 2024

Rapid advances in nanotechnology have made it possible to combine photothermal therapy (PTT) with immunotherapy, enabling to activate an in situ vaccine effect. However, this effect is severely impeded by low antigen presentation level and highly suppressive tumor immune microenvironment (immune “cold” tumors). To overcome the obstacles, multifunctional carrier‐free nanoparticles (FCDP‐NPs) assembled from Fe2+, toll‐like receptor 9 agonist (CpG), cationic lipid (DOTAP) and photothermal agent polydopamine are developed. After intratumoral injection, FCDP‐NPs carrying positive charge are exposed under laser irradiation, which can capture tumor‐associated antigens (TAAs) generated upon post‐PTT to form the nanovaccines (FCD‐NPs@TAAs). The nanovaccines further promote cross‐presentation of TAAs, stimulate adaptive immune responses, and shape immune “hot” tumors. As a result, in situ nanovaccines highly improve survival rates and elicit a durable immune memory that remarkedly prevents tumor metastasis, illustrating a useful platform for PTT synergized with immunotherapy.
A Dynamic Gradient Stiffness Material Platform to Manipulate Cardiac Fibroblasts' Spatio‐Temporal Behavior
Authors: Cao Zheng , Clark Andy T. , Vite Alexia , Corbin Elise A.
Published: April 2024

After myocardial infarction, there exists a spatiotemporal variation of cardiac tissue stiffness across the infarcted border region outward to remote regions, influencing adverse remodeling and cardiac fibrosis, and this stiffness gradient changes over time. Here, a platform with dynamic, tunable, and reversible gradient stiffness can recapitulate in vitro the time‐dependent stiffness range across the infarction border that occurs as part of the remodeling process is presented. This platform enables the observation of time‐dependent interaction between cardiac fibroblasts and their mechanical microenvironment in a spatiotemporal manner. Specifically, the competition and cooperation of a chemical cue (antifibrotic drug) and mechanical cue (gradient softening) in tandem to attenuate the fibrotic responses of cardiac fibroblasts is examined. Applying a combined intervention showed either additive or antagonistic effects on fibrosis‐related gene regulation compared to separate interventions of drug or softening. This work reveals the spatiotemporal variation of fibrotic response in cardiac fibroblasts as well as the complexity of antifibrotic drug dosing with stiffness changes and their combinatory effect on cardiac fibroblasts. This platform provides a unique in vitro tool to study disease progression mechanisms in a more clinically relevant microenvironment and also serves as a cost‐effective model for potential therapeutic screening.
One‐Hour Ambient‐Pressure‐Dried, Scalable, Stretchable MXene/Polyurea Aerogel Enables Synergistic Defense Against High‐Frequency Mechanical Shock and Electromagnetic Waves
Authors: Zheng Sinan , Xu Wenlong , Liu Jiurong , Pan Fei , Zhao Shanyu , Wang Yadi , Zeng Zhihui , Wu Na
Published: April 2024

The rapid, energy‐efficient, scalable preparation of high‐strength, flexible, multifunctional nanostructured aerogels is highly desired yet challenging. Here, an ambient‐pressure‐dried (APD) strategy is developed involving self‐foaming, dip‐coating, and graphene oxide (GO)‐assisted multiple cross‐linking treatments for the prompt, large‐area preparation of polyurea/transition metal carbides/nitrides (MXenes) aerogels. The APD MXene‐based aerogels showcase low density, remarkable mechanical strength, and ultraflexiblity involving stretchability, good conductivity, hydrophobicity, and high resistance to various solvents. Synergies of robust, elastic cell walls and porous structure contribute to high‐efficiency absorption of high‐frequency, high‐speed mechanical shock waves for the aerogels, significantly transcendinging the biomasses, plastics, elastomers, ceramics, and metals. In addition to the excellent microwave shielding performance of over 40 dB in ultrabroadband frequencies of 4–40 GHz, the oxidation stability is elevated for APD MXene aerogels, consequently yielding applicability in harsh conditions. Furthermore, the superior light absorption capability of aerogels leads to the efficient photothermal conversion, therapy, antibacterial, desalination, water purification, deicing, and thick oil absorption. This work provides a facile, time‐ and energy‐efficient, scalable APD methodology for manufacturing large‐area, high‐strength, ultraflexible, multifunctional MXene‐based aerogels, enlighting a novel synergistic defense against mechanical shock and electromagnetic waves, and promoting them as a prospective candidate in aerospace, device protection, and next‐generation electronics.
Compose and Convert: Controlling Shape and Chemical Composition of Self‐Organizing Nanocomposites
Authors: Bistervels Marloes H. , van der Weijden Arno , Schoenmaker Hinco , Kamp Marko , Noorduin Willem L.
Published: April 2024

Organizing the right material at the right place has the potential to revolutionize bottom‐up assembly of functional architectures. Despite tremendous progress, this is still difficult in particular because control over chemical composition and morphology are typically inherently entangled. Here a two‐step strategy is introduced based on self‐organization and conversion reactions to shape a wide selection of chemical compositions into user‐defined designs. First, photogeneration of CO2 induces precipitation of nanocomposites of barium carbonate nanocrystals and amorphous silica (BaCO3/SiO2) with control over shape and location following arbitrary illumination patterns. Second, the resulting nanocrystals are converted by sequential ion exchange into a palette of chemical compositions, while the original shape is preserved. By considering thermodynamic stability and chemical reactivity, orthogonal conversion reactions are designed for sequentially positioning nanocomposites of different metal chalcogenide semiconductors next to each other. Based on these strategies, different compositions are integrated into the same hybrid architecture, and the functionality potential is demonstrated by forming a light‐emitting perovskite semiconductor that is embedded into an optical waveguide. Combining light‐controlled self‐organization and shape‐preserving ion‐exchange reactions offers exciting opportunities for shaping up materials.
A Manganese‐Based Nanodriver Coordinates Tumor Prevention and Suppression through STING Activation in Glioblastoma
Authors: Zhang Wenyuan , Lu Liejing , Zhu Zheng , Deng Fuan , Zhang Wenchang , Wang Fengyi , Zeng Ping , Shi Haonan , Wang Tong , Chen Yichi , Song Yue , Liu Yiping , Kang Tianze , Li Kai , Mao Jie , Liu Zhengwei , Zhang Lu
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most prevalent and aggressive primary malignant brain tumor, exhibits profound immunosuppression and demonstrates a low response rate to current immunotherapy strategies. Manganese cations (Mn2+) directly activate the cGAS/STING pathway and induce the unique catalytic synthesis of 2′3'‐cGAMP to facilitate type I IFN production, thereby enhancing innate immunity. Here, a telodendrimer and Mn2+‐based nanodriver (PLHM) with a small size is developed, which effectively target lymph nodes through the blood circulation and exhibit tumor‐preventive effects at low doses of Mn2+ (3.7 mg kg−1). On the other hand, the PLHM nanodriver also exhibits apparent antitumor effects in GBM‐bearing mice via inducing in vivo innate immune responses. The combination of PLHM with doxorubicin nanoparticles (PLHM‐DOX NPs) results in superior inhibition of tumor growth in GBM‐bearing mice due to the synergistic potentiation of STING pathway functionality by Mn2+ and the presence of cytoplasmic DNA. These findings demonstrate that PLHM‐DOX NPs effectively stimulate innate immunity, promote dendritic cell maturation, and orchestrate cascaded infiltration of CD8 cytotoxic T lymphocytes within glioblastomas characterized by low immunogenicity. These nanodivers chelated with Mn2+ show promising potential for tumor prevention and antitumor effects on glioblastoma by activating the STING pathway.
Arising 2D Perovskites for Ionizing Radiation Detection
Authors: Li Weijun , Li Mingbian , He Yuhong , Song Jinmei , Guo Keke , Pan Wanting , Wei Haotong
Published: April 2024

2D perovskites have greatly improved moisture stability owing to the large organic cations embedded in the inorganic octahedral structure, which also suppresses the ions migration and reduces the dark current. The suppression of ions migration by 2D perovskites effectively suppresses excessive device noise and baseline drift and shows excellent potential in the direct X‐ray detection field. In addition, 2D perovskites have gradually emerged with many unique properties, such as anisotropy, tunable bandgap, high photoluminescence quantum yield, and wide range exciton binding energy, which continuously promote the development of 2D perovskites in ionizing radiation detection. This review aims to systematically summarize the advances and progress of 2D halide perovskite semiconductor and scintillator ionizing radiation detectors, including reported alpha (α) particle, beta (β) particle, neutron, X‐ray, and gamma (γ) ray detection. The unique structural features of 2D perovskites and their advantages in X‐ray detection are discussed. Development directions are also proposed to overcome the limitations of 2D halide perovskite radiation detectors.
Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence with Nanosecond Emission Lifetimes and Minor Concentration Quenching: Achieving High‐Performance Nondoped and Doped Blue OLEDs
Authors: Wu Shao‐Jie , Fu Xi‐Feng , Zhang Dong‐Hai , Sun Yu‐Fu , Lu Xin , Lin Fu‐Lin , Meng Lingyi , Chen Xu‐Lin , Lu Can‐Zhong
Published: April 2024

Simultaneously achieving a high photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), ultrashort exciton lifetime, and suppressed concentration quenching in thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials is desirable yet challenging. Here, a novel acceptor–donor–acceptor type TADF emitter, namely, 2BO‐sQA, wherein two oxygen‐bridged triarylboron (BO) acceptors are arranged with cofacial alignment and positioned nearly orthogonal to the rigid dispirofluorene‐quinolinoacridine (sQA) donor is reported. This molecular design enables the compound to achieve highly efficient (PLQYs up to 99%) and short‐lived (nanosecond‐scale) blue TADF with effectively suppressed concentration quenching in films. Consequently, the doped organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs) base on 2BO‐sQA achieve exceptional electroluminescence performance across a broad range of doping concentrations, maintaining maximum external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) at over 30% for doping concentrations ranging from 10 to 70 wt%. Remarkably, the nondoped blue OLED achieves a record‐high maximum EQE of 26.6% with a small efficiency roll‐off of 14.0% at 1000 candelas per square meter. By using 2BO‐sQA as the sensitizer for the multiresonance TADF emitter ν‐DABNA, TADF‐sensitized fluorescence OLEDs achieve high‐efficiency deep‐blue emission. These results demonstrate the feasibility of this molecular design in developing TADF emitters with high efficiency, ultrashort exciton lifetime, and minimal concentration quenching.
Toughening Hydrogels with Fibrillar Connected Double Networks
Authors: Fang Yu‐Huang , Liang Chen , Liljeström Ville , Lv Zhong‐Peng , Ikkala Olli , Zhang Hang
Published: April 2024

Biological tissues, such as tendons or cartilage, possess high strength and toughness with very low plastic deformations. In contrast, current strategies to prepare tough hydrogels commonly utilize energy dissipation mechanisms based on physical bonds that lead to irreversible large plastic deformations, thus limiting their load‐bearing applications. This article reports a strategy to toughen hydrogels using fibrillar connected double networks (fc‐DN), which consist of two distinct but chemically interconnected polymer networks, that is, a polyacrylamide network and an acrylated agarose fibril network. The fc‐DN design allows efficient stress transfer between the two networks and high fibril alignment during deformation, both contributing to high strength and toughness, while the chemical crosslinking ensures low plastic deformations after undergoing high strains. The mechanical properties of the fc‐DN network can be readily tuned to reach an ultimate tensile strength of 8 MPa and a toughness of above 55 MJ m−3, which is 3 and 3.5 times more than that of fibrillar double network hydrogels without chemical connections, respectively. The application potential of the fc‐DN hydrogel is demonstrated as load‐bearing damping material for a jointed robotic lander. The fc‐DN design provides a new toughening mechanism for hydrogels that can be used for soft robotics or bioelectronic applications.
4D Printing for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Yarali Ebrahim , Mirzaali Mohammad J. , Ghalayaniesfahani Ava , Accardo Angelo , Diaz‐Payno Pedro J. , Zadpoor Amir A.
Published: April 2024

4D (bio‐)printing endows 3D printed (bio‐)materials with multiple functionalities and dynamic properties. 4D printed materials have been recently used in biomedical engineering for the design and fabrication of biomedical devices, such as stents, occluders, microneedles, smart 3D‐cell engineered microenvironments, drug delivery systems, wound closures, and implantable medical devices. However, the success of 4D printing relies on the rational design of 4D printed objects, the selection of smart materials, and the availability of appropriate types of external (multi‐)stimuli. Here, this work first highlights the different types of smart materials, external stimuli, and design strategies used in 4D (bio‐)printing. Then, it presents a critical review of the biomedical applications of 4D printing and discusses the future directions of biomedical research in this exciting area, including in vivo tissue regeneration studies, the implementation of multiple materials with reversible shape memory behaviors, the creation of fast shape‐transformation responses, the ability to operate at the microscale, untethered activation and control, and the application of (machine learning‐based) modeling approaches to predict the structure–property and design–shape transformation relationships of 4D (bio)printed constructs.
A Review of Synthesis and Novel Transport Properties of Multivalent Manganate Perovskite: Progress, Opportunities, and Challenges
Authors: Feng Shouhua , Zhang Yaowen , Hou Hongwei , Wen Chunxia , Dong Xuanchen , Shi Wenshu , Lv Ruike , Fu Meichun , Liu Junwei , Lu Jiajun , Duan Longhui , Han Mei , Zheng Beining , Gao Lu
Published: April 2024

Understanding the microstructure of materials and their impact on performance is crucial for new electronic devices design. The strong interaction between multiple degrees of freedom (spin, orbit, charge, and lattice) within perovskite type oxides can generate rich electron phase diagrams. The microscopic modulation of manganese ions electron states in rare earth manganate perovskites is the root of many novel macroscopic quantum behaviors, such as giant magnetoresistance phenomenon. For ABO3 type perovskites, the differences of radii and valence states of A‐site ions are used to regulate the coexistence of B site manganese multivalent states (Mn3+, Mn4+, Mn5+), and its ordered structure in the metastable state will create a new combination of electronic states. The ordered arrangement of the multi‐dimensional space of electronic states can induce unique transport properties. Therefore, the preparation of manganate perovskites will provide strong chemical support to construct new generation quantum devices. This review summarizes the challenges and difficulties on constructing trivalent coexisting metastable phase in manganate perovskites through disproportionation reactions, and discusses the status and potential of designing ideal rectified p‐n junctions taking advantage of this unique structure. Finally, the foregrounds of new quantum states driven by this chemical reaction are prospected.
Ferroelectric Polarization‐Mediated Modulation of Optical Properties in 2D van der Waals Architectures
Authors: Wan Yi , Liu Mingyan , Li Fang , Qu Ziyang , Zhao Yibin , Peng Yuxuan , Li Pan , Chen Zuxin , Chen Shanbao , Yang Jinbo , Huang Chengxi , Kan Erjun
Published: April 2024

The integration of 2D ferroelectric materials with 2D photoelectric materials presents a promising avenue for addressing issues related to controlled doping and device integration in layered semiconductors. The reversible and non‐volatile residual polarization inherent to ferroelectrics can provide stable n‐ or p‐type doping for 2D semiconductors. Despite advances in doping strategies for 2D materials, existing techniques, and post‐doping characterization methodologies exhibit limitations, including the challenge of achieving high‐resolution graphical depictions of doped structures. Here, a WS2/CuInP2S6 heterostructure is demonstarted whereby the residual polarization of ferroelectric CuInP2S6 regions with anti‐parallel directions supplies screening charges of opposite signs to WS2 monolayers. This notably alters the ratio of neutral excitons and negatively charged trions within the recombination luminescence of the direct‐gap semiconductor, thereby offering a viable approach for controllable, non‐volatile modulation in 2D systems. Beyond proposing a feasible strategy for patterned doping and effective regulation in 2D semiconductors through interface engineering, this work enhances the understanding of the interplay between ferroelectrics and semiconductors.
Accelerated Sulfur Redox Kinetics on Transition Metal Sulfide Electrocatalysts by Modulating Electronic‐State of Active Sites
Authors: Wang Xiaoting , Liu Siyu , Yang Juan , He Songjie , Qiu Jieshan
Published: April 2024

Lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries are considered a competitive next‐generation electrochemical energy storage device, while the shuttle effect of soluble lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) resulting from the sluggish redox kinetics severely impedes their practical applications. Herein, a novel cation doping strategy is demonstrated for substantially accelerating the sulfur redox kinetics on the transition metal sulfide (TMS) electrocatalysts by partially substituting cobalt atoms with in situ dissolved Ni dopants (NixCo3‐xS4, 0<x≤1). Theoretical calculations revealed that the doping of Ni in the spinel Co3S4 phase enables the electronic‐state modulation of metal active sites by realizing the upshift of the d‐orbital center, thus leading to good chemical adsorption of intermediates and low redox conversion barriers between LiPSs and solid Li2S products. This is confirmed by in‐depth electrochemical dynamics and in situ Raman characterizations, in which the obtained Ni0.5Co2.5S4 with hierarchical nanosheet structure delivers the stronger chemical affinity of Li2S6 and higher precipitation/dissociation capacity of Li2S in comparison to monometallic cobalt sulfides. Benefiting from these outstanding attributes, the assembled Li‐S batteries by incorporating Ni0.5Co2.5S4 electrocatalysts into S@carbon nanotube cathode (S@Ni0.5Co2.5S4/CNT) exhibit a high specific capacity of 1189 mAh g−1 with excellent rate performance of 596 mAh g−1 at 5 C and long‐term cycling performance over 600 cycles with a capacity decay of 0.06% per cycle at 1 C. More importantly, an ultrahigh reversible areal capacity of 6.6 mAh cm−2 can be achieved for S@Ni0.5Co2.5S4/CNT cathode even with a high sulfur loading of 6.1 mg cm−2. This work demonstrates a new insight into designing TMS electrocatalysts toward rapid redox conversion kinetics in Li‐S batteries.
The drivers of intraspecific trait variation and their implications for future tree productivity and survival
Authors: Blumstein Meghan
Published: April 2024

Forests are facing unprecedented levels of stress from pest and disease outbreaks, disturbance, fragmentation, development, and a changing climate. These selective agents act to alter forest composition from regional to cellular levels. Thus, a central challenge for understanding how forests will be impacted by future change is how to integrate across scales of biology. Phenotype, or an observable trait, is the product of an individual's genes (G) and the environment in which an organism lives (E). To date, researchers have detailed how environment drives variation in tree phenotypes over long time periods (e.g., long‐term ecological research sites [LTERs]) and across large spatial scales (e.g., flux network). In parallel, researchers have discovered the genes and pathways that govern phenotypes, finding high degrees of genetic control and signatures of local adaptation in many plant traits. However, the research in these two areas remain largely independent of each other, hindering our ability to generate accurate predictions of plant response to environment, an increasingly urgent need given threats to forest systems. I present the importance of both genes and environment in determining tree responses to climate stress. I highlight why the difference between G versus E in driving variation is critical for our understanding of climate responses, then propose means of accelerating research that examines G and E simultaneously by leveraging existing long‐term, large‐scale phenotypic data sets from ecological networks and adding newly affordable sequence (‐omics) data to both drill down to find the genes and alleles influencing phenotypes and scale up to find how patterns of demography and local adaptation may influence future response to change.
Coronary computed tomography–angiography for traumatic coronary artery transection
Authors: Nagashima Kenta , Hayashida Tomohiro , Yamada Eiji , Ishibashi Naoki , Mimura Naoki , Kashitani Nobuhiro
Published: April 2024

Background

Penetrating thoracic trauma with coronary artery transection is a lethal injury, but is rare. We report a case of a cardiac stab wound with coronary artery transection that was successfully treated after preoperative diagnosis.

Case Presentation

A 36‐year‐old man was transferred to our emergency department with a left chest stab wound. A coronary computed tomography‐angiography scan, including coronary angiography, revealed left hemopneumothorax and left anterior descending branch transection, with ischemic changes in the left ventricular myocardium. Given the diagnosis of coronary artery transection and the absence of injury to the surrounding arteries, we were able to perform coronary artery bypass surgery using the left internal thoracic artery. The patient's postoperative course was good, and he was discharged on foot without major complications 18 days after surgery.

Conclusion

Unless a resuscitative thoracotomy is required, a preoperative computed tomography scan, including coronary angiography, may be useful for accurate preoperative diagnosis for patients at high risk of myocardial or coronary artery injury.
Germaaluminocene – Maskierte Heterofulvene
Authors: Geibel Nadeschda , Bührmann Lukas , Albers Lena , Schmidtmann Marc , Weiz Alexander , Müller Thomas
Published: April 2024

Salzmetathesereaktionen zwischen Dikaliumgermacyclopentadiendiiden und Pentamethylcyclopentadienylaluminiumdichlorid bieten einen Zugang zu Germaaluminocenen. Das Reaktionsverhalten dieser Sandwichkomplexe wird durch das elektrophile, zentrale Aluminiumatom und das nukleophile, dikoordinierte Germaniumzentrum bestimmt. Überraschenderweise entsprechen die Produkte, welche bei den Reaktionen mit Lewis‐Säuren, Lewis‐Basen, amphiphilen Verbindungen und solchen mit polaren Doppelbindungen entstehen, denen, die bei der Reaktion eines hypothetischen Aluminagermapentafulvens mit derartigen Reaktandentypen erwartet werden. Dies legt nahe, dass es sich bei den Germaaluminocenen um synthetische Äquivalente eben dieser Pentafulvene handelt.
Spatially Resolved High Voltage Kelvin Probe Force Microscopy: A Novel Avenue for Examining Electrical Phenomena at Nanoscale
Authors: McCluskey Conor J. , Sharma Niyorjyoti , Maguire Jesi R. , Pauly Serene , Rogers Andrew , Lindsay TJ , Holsgrove Kristina M. , Rodriguez Brian J. , Soin Navneet , Gregg John Marty , McQuaid Raymond G. P. , Kumar Amit
Published: April 2024

Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) is a well‐established scanning probe technique, used to measure surface potential accurately; it has found extensive use in the study of a range of materials phenomena. In its conventional form, KPFM frustratingly precludes imaging samples or scenarios where large surface potential or surface potential gradients exist outside the typical ±10 V window. If the potential regime measurable via KPFM can be expanded, to enable precise and reliable metrology, through a high voltage KPFM (HV‐KPFM) adaptation, it can open up pathways toward a range of novel experiments, where the detection limit of regular KPFM has so far prevented the use of the technique. In this work, HV‐KPFM is realized and shown to be capable of measuring large surface potential and potential gradients with accuracy and precision. The technique is employed to study a range of materials (positive temperature coefficient of resistivity ceramics, charge storage fluoropolymers, and pyroelectrics) where accurate, spatially resolved mapping of surface potential within high voltage regime facilitates novel physical insight. The results demonstrate that HV‐KPFM can be used as an effective tool to fill in existing gaps in surface potential measurements while also opening routes for novel studies in materials physics.
Public human dissection and societal connect of anatomical sciences: A glorious association in the past but ethically forbidden practice at present
Authors: Ghosh Sanjib Kumar , Bhattacharjee Sourav
Published: April 2024

Under the futuristic vision of anatomical sciences, a strong societal connection is mandatory. The anatomical practice experienced robust societal participation through public human dissection from the 16th century onward. With a perspective to explore the intersection of spirituality with anatomy, the present study analyzed this momentous period. From a spiritual perspective, the study also reflects on two relevant but presently uncoupled entities of public human dissection and societal connection through the prism of current regulations. Strong representation from the general public during public human dissection was primarily driven by spiritual proclivity and an endorsement from religious authorities. To regulate large gatherings and maintain academic sanctity, anatomical theaters emerged as dedicated spaces for such a merger. With time and growing financial support, the theaters transformed from temporary structures to elaborate architectural marvels, further propelling already robust societal connections associated with the practice. Nevertheless, a confluence of multiple factors led to the violation of spiritual principles and a consequent decrease in societal participation from the early 18th century, eventually culminating in the demise of such spectacle. Presently, public human dissection—when done—is mostly conducted for commercial gains and in contravention of ethical norms. It is against the essence of spirituality and harbors a bleak prospect for societal connection. Contrastingly, measures adopted to promote societal participation (mostly related to body donation) were quite effective and followed the principles of spirituality. Societal connections served anatomy in the past and can lead to its advancement if approached through a righteous path.
Overview of cloning in lactic acid bacteria: Expression and its application of probiotic potential in inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Vivekanandan K. E. , Kasimani R. , Kumar P. Vinoth , Meenatchisundaram S. , Sundar William Arputha
Published: April 2024

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) imposes a significant impact on the quality of life for affected individuals. However, there was a current lack of a systematic summary regarding the latest epidemic trends and the underlying pathogenesis of IBD. This highlights the need for a thorough examination of both the epidemiological aspects of IBD and the specific mechanisms by which lactic acid bacteria (LAB) contribute to mitigating this condition. In developed countries, higher incidences and death rates of IBD have been observed, influenced by a combination of environmental and genetic factors. LAB offer significant advantages and substantial potential for enhancing IBD treatment. LAB's capabilities include the production of bioactive metabolites, regulation of gut immunity, protection of intestinal mechanical barriers, inhibition of oxidative damage, and restoration of imbalanced gut microbiota. The review suggests that screening effective LAB using cell models and metabolites, optimizing LAB intake through dose‐effect studies, enhancing utilization through nanoencapsulation and microencapsulation, investigating mechanisms to deepen the understanding of LAB, and refining clinical study designs. These efforts aim to contribute to comprehending the epidemic trend, pathogenesis, and treatment of IBD, ultimately fostering the development of targeted therapeutic products, such as LAB‐based interventions.
A Bayesian model‐based reduced major axis regression
Authors: Ma Zhihua , Chen Ming‐Hui
Published: April 2024

Reduced major axis (RMA) regression, widely used in the fields of zoology, botany, ecology, biology, spectroscopy, and among others, outweighs the ordinary least square regression by relaxing the assumption that the covariates are without measurement errors. A Bayesian implementation of the RMA regression is presented in this paper, and the equivalence of the estimates of the parameters under the Bayesian and the frequentist frameworks is proved. This model‐based Bayesian RMA method is advantageous since the posterior estimates, the standard deviations, as well as the credible intervals of the estimates can be obtained through Markov chain Monte Carlo methods directly. In addition, it is straightforward to extend to the multivariate RMA case. The performance of the Bayesian RMA approach is evaluated in the simulation study, and, finally, the proposed method is applied to analyze a dataset in the plantation.
Antibacterial wound dressing with cross‐linked electrospun surface from reduced graphene oxide doped polyvinyl alcohol/sodium caseinate blends
Authors: Samatya Yilmaz Sema , Aytac Ayse
Published: April 2024

In this study, a new biomaterial with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/sodium caseinate (SodCa)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) structure was developed. Antibacterial effective nanofibers were successfully produced by electrospinning method from 1%, 3%, 5%, and 7% rGO added PVA/SodCa (60:40, w:w) solution mixtures prepared for use as modern wound dressings. To create a usage area, especially in exuding wounds, hydrophilic PVA/SodCa/rGO electrospun mats were cross‐linked by dipping them in a glutaraldehyde (GLA) bath. The surface micrographs of all nanofibers were homogeneous and smooth. rGO‐doped biomaterials were obtained as thin nanofibers in the range of 301–348 nm. Nanofibers, which were completely soluble in water, after cross‐linking preserved their existence in the range of 87%–81% at the end of the 24th hour in distilled water. It was reported that these biomaterials that persist in an aqueous environment show swelling behavior in the range of 275%–608%. The porosity of uncross‐linked pure PVA/SodCa nanofibers increased by 46.75% after cross‐linking. Moreover, the tensile strength of cross‐linked PVA/SodCa electrospun mats increased in the presence of rGO. Provided that wound dressing is done every 24 h with 3% rGO‐doped PVA/SodCa nanofiber and provided that wound dressing is done every 48 h with 5% rGO‐doped PVA/SodCa nanofiber showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus as 99.38% and 99.55%, respectively.
Computer‐aided experimental studies for adaptive beamforming algorithms and array processing in engineering education
Authors: Salas‐Natera Miguel A. , Zorkun Aral E. , Rodríguez‐Osorio Ramón M.
Published: April 2024

Smart antenna and digital antenna systems are considered as a crucial technology for current and future communication systems supporting 5G/6G and nonterrestrial‐networks communications. Based on the information of the received signal/s, smart antenna systems toward the radiation pattern to the desired direction/s. This technique is known as adaptive beamforming. The theories and the applications of adaptive beamforming are taught in engineering educational courses. This paper proposes a set of real‐time interactive experiments for adaptive beamforming algorithms in antenna array processing subject. The proposed experiments can be performed with the computer‐aided experimental studies tool prepared in the MATLAB® environment. The users can easily make comparisons and can perform trade‐offs between different types of adaptive beamforming algorithms, scenarios, and antenna architecture. This is used as a teaching tool for a graduate course on adaptive beamforming algorithms.
Psychological empowerment and exercising: The relationships between exercising, self‐stereotyping, agency, autonomy and physical self‐efficacy in non‐Western women
Authors: Mosanya Magdalena , Kassie Seada
Published: April 2024

Despite recent efforts towards equality, there are still gender disparities in Middle Eastern societies, where women are often discouraged from viewing themselves as autonomous, competent and self‐determining individuals due to the internalization of traditional gender norms. Research on women's empowerment in multicultural and non‐Western societies is scarce. In the absence of other interventions, exercising has been effective in increasing women's psychological and physical strength. The present study focused on women (N = 250) living in a non‐Western and multicultural environment, aiming to assess whether (a) self‐stereotyping negatively correlates with factors of empowerment (operationalized as a sense of autonomy, agency and self‐efficacy) and exercising, (b) exercising is positively associated with factors of empowerment and (c) if exercising would mediate the hypothesized relationship of self‐stereotyping on empowerment. Secondly, the study also qualitatively explored the subjectively reported exercising motives and outcomes. The results of quantitative analyses confirmed that self‐stereotyping was negatively correlated with autonomy and agency, but not with physical self‐efficacy. Exercising was positively correlated with all the factors of empowerment and negatively with self‐stereotyping. The structural equation modelling supported the intermediary role of exercising in the associations between self‐stereotyping and autonomy and agency. The qualitative analysis revealed that although the participants principally exercised for health‐related motives, the reported outcome was primarily reflective of experiences of empowerment. The findings could be used to inform current policies and interventions geared towards women to support and promote their physical and psychological well‐being.
Synthesis and Inhibitor Effect Novel Alkoxymethyl Derivatives of Dihetero Cycloalkanes on Carbonic Anhydrase and Acetylcholinesterase
Authors: Farzaliyev Vagif , Ertürk Adem , Abbasova Malahat , Nabiyev Oruj , Demir Yeliz , Kızıltaş Hatice , Sujayev Afsun , Gülçin İlhami
Published: April 2024

1,3‐Diheterocycloalkanes derivatives are important starting materials in fine organic synthesis. These compounds can be widely used in various fields such as industry, medicine, biotechnology and chemical technology. The paper is focused on synthesis and study of alkoxymethyl derivatives of diheterocycloalkanes (M1–M15) and inhibition effect on carbonic anhydrase and acetylcholinesterase. The structures of compounds were confirmed by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Also, in this study alkoxymethyl derivatives of diheterocycloalkanes were assessed for their influence on various metabolic enzymes, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and human carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes (hCA I and hCA II). The results demonstrated that all these compounds exhibited potent inhibitory effects on all the target enzymes, surpassing the standard inhibitors, as evidenced by their IC50 and Ki values. The Ki values for the compounds concerning AChE, hCA I, and hCA II enzymes were in the ranges of 1.02±0.17–8.38±1.02, 15.30±3.15–58.14±5.17 and 24.05±3.70–312.94±27.24 nM, respectively.
The impact of unilateral pulmonary artery stenosis on right ventricular to pulmonary arterial coupling in patients with transposition of the great arteries
Authors: Joosen Renée S. , Voskuil Michiel , Krings Gregor J. , Handoko M. Louis , Dickinson Michael G. , van de Veerdonk Marielle C. , Breur Johannes M. P. J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Unilateral pulmonary artery (PA) stenosis is common in the transposition of the great arteries (TGA) after arterial switch operation (ASO) but the effects on the right ventricle (RV) remain unclear.

Aims

To assess the effects of unilateral PA stenosis on RV afterload and function in pediatric patients with TGA‐ASO.

Methods

In this retrospective study, eight TGA patients with unilateral PA stenosis underwent heart catheterization and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging. RV pressures, RV afterload (arterial elastance [Ea]), PA compliance, RV contractility (end‐systolic elastance [Ees]), RV‐to‐PA (RV‐PA) coupling (Ees/Ea), and RV diastolic stiffness (end‐diastolic elastance [Eed]) were analyzed and compared to normal values from the literature.

Results

In all TGA patients (mean age 12 ± 3 years), RV afterload (Ea) and RV pressures were increased whereas PA compliance was reduced. RV contractility (Ees) was decreased resulting in RV‐PA uncoupling. RV diastolic stiffness (Eed) was increased. CMR‐derived RV volumes, mass, and ejection fraction were preserved.

Conclusion

Unilateral PA stenosis results in an increased RV afterload in TGA patients after ASO. RV remodeling and function remain within normal limits when analyzed by CMR but RV pressure–volume loop analysis shows impaired RV diastolic stiffness and RV contractility leading to RV‐PA uncoupling.
Bullous striae distensae in a nephrotic syndrome patient: First case report from the Middle East of a rare presentation and review of the literature
Authors: Alrefaie Sumayyah I. , Aljoudi Sarah B. , Nukaly Houriah Y. , ALHawasawi Waseem K. , Hariri Jehad O.
Published: April 2024

Striae distensae is a common cutaneous phenomenon that begins as reddish linear atrophic plaques (striae rubra) that over time progress to silvery‐white coloration (stria alba). Striae distensae in rare occasions becomes edematous, ulcerative, emphysematous, or urticated. Bullous striae distensae is a sequela of conditions causing interstitial edema along with systemic glucocorticoids use. To our knowledge, only eight cases of bullous striae distensae have been reported in the literature. Herein, we report a 17‐year‐old female, known case of nephrotic syndrome, presented to our clinic with abdominal fluid‐fill cutaneous lesions only for 5 days. She had used systemic glucocorticoids for more than a decade before she was labeled as steroid resistant nephrotic syndrome. Cushingoid body habitus were observed during physical examination, in addition to translucent bullae overlying her previously known stretch marks. Punch biopsy of the lesions revealed dermal edema with thinned collagen bundles. Based on these clinicopathological findings, a diagnosis of bullous striae distensae was made. Awareness of this rare complication and unusual clinical presentation is fundamental to avoid unnecessary and excessive interventions whether investigatory or therapeutic in order to provide appropriate management of the underlying condition.
A patient with a rare co‐occurrence of papillary and follicular thyroid carcinomas
Authors: Kamalumpundi Vijayvardhan , Meyers Erin , Torfah Maisoon , de Gusmão Correia Marcelo Lima
Published: April 2024

Key Clinical Message

The occurrence of papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma as a collision tumor is rare. We report on a case of a collision tumor consisting of papillary and follicular thyroid carcinoma treated successfully with surgery and radioiodine ablation.
Prospects in Sustainable Hydrosilylation by Biphase Catalysis
Authors: Goncharova Irina K. , Beletskaya Irina P. , Arzumanyan Ashot V.
Published: April 2024

This concept addresses the main economic, environmental, scientific and technological issues associated with the use of homogeneous Pt‐catalysts in the important industrial hydrosilylation process. The development of biphase catalysis is proposed as the most promising approach. One solution we suggest is the use of ethylene glycol (EG) as a medium in biphase catalysis. We have previously shown that EG in Pt‐catalyzed hydrosilylation serves not only as a medium but also as a mild reducing agent of Pt‐ions to Pt0, as well as an effective ligand for the preparation of mononuclear Pt01‐complexes. These zero valent platinum complexes are single‐atom catalysts (SAC) and have high activity in hydrosilylation, stability during storage and the ability to be recycled multiple times (~40 times). This option of using an atomic catalyst allows us to combine the advantages of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts.
A simple form could prevent authorship issues in Cochrane manuscripts: A cohort study
Authors: Fonnes Siv , Andresen Kristoffer , Öberg Stina , Baker Jason Joe , Rosenberg Jacob
Published: April 2024

Aim

We aimed to investigate authorship issues after the implementation of an authorship declaration form in a Cochrane Review Group.

Methods

The Cochrane Colorectal Group uses an authorship declaration form that consists of three parts: (1) manuscript information, (2) documentation for roles according to the four authorship criteria of the International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE), and (3) identification information of individual authors and signed approval. The manuscripts' contact authors were responsible for collecting the forms from all coauthors. This observational cohort study reports on all authorship issues in authorship declaration forms collected from February 2020 to December 2023.

Results

We received 276/277 authorship declaration forms or replies from authors (response rate 99.6%) from 44 manuscripts, including 52% protocols and 48% reviews. There were authorship issues present in 14/44 (32%) of the manuscripts, and the most common issue was that not all authors fulfilled all four ICMJE authorship criteria. Six gift authors were removed from by‐lines. Issues in nine of the 14 manuscripts were resolved by the author group when informing them about the ICMJE authorship criteria and guidance from the Committee on Publication Ethics (COPE). The issues in the remaining five manuscripts were unresolved since the manuscripts were transferred or rejected, thus, ceased to be developed by the Cochrane Colorectal Group.

Conclusion

Authorship issues were raised in almost one‐third of manuscripts. Most issues were resolved and six gift authorships were prevented. The awareness of authorship criteria is sharpened when all authors are individually asked to fill out and sign a form. This could help decrease the rate of unethical authorships in Cochrane publications and contribute to more ethical and robust evidence production.
A novel improvement strategy and a comprehensive mechanism insight for α‐MnO2 energy storage in rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries
Authors: Xiankai Fan , Kaixiong Xiang , Wei Zhou , Weina Deng , Hai Zhu , Liang Chen , Han Chen
Published: April 2024

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries have been regarded as the most potential candidate to substitute lithium‐ion batteries. However, many serious challenges such as suppressing zinc dendrite growth and undesirable reactions, and achieving fully accepted mechanism also have not been solved. Herein, the commensal composite microspheres with α‐MnO2 nano‐wires and carbon nanotubes were achieved and could effectively suppress  ZnSO4·3Zn(OH)2·nH2O rampant crystallization. The electrode assembled with the microspheres delivered a high initial capacity at a current density of 0.05 A g−1 and maintained a significantly prominent capacity retention of 88% over 2500 cycles. Furthermore, a novel energy‐storage mechanism, in which multivalent manganese oxides play a synergistic effect, was comprehensively investigated by the quantitative and qualitative analysis for ZnSO4·3Zn(OH)2·nH2O. The capacity contribution of multivalent manganese oxides and the crystal structure dissection in the transformed processes were completely identified. Therefore, our research could provide a novel strategy for designing improved electrode structure and a comprehensive understanding of the energy storage mechanism of α‐MnO2 cathodes.
Engineered Nanomaterials for Tumor Immune Microenvironment Modulation in Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Xing Hao , Li Xiaomin
Published: April 2024

Tumor immunotherapy, represented by immune checkpoint blocking and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy, has achieved promising results in clinical applications. However, it faces challenges that hinder its further development, such as limited response rates and poor tumor permeability. The efficiency of tumor immunotherapy is also closely linked to the structure and function of the immune microenvironment where the tumor resides. Recently, nanoparticle‐based tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) modulation strategies have attracted a great deal of attention in cancer immunotherapy. This is primarily due to the distinctive physical characteristics of nanoparticles, which enable them to effectively infiltrate the TIME and selectively modulate its key constituents. This paper reviews recent advances in nanoparticle engineering to improve anti‐cancer immunotherapy. Emerging nanoparticle‐based approaches for modulating immune cells, tumor stroma, cytokines and immune checkpoints are discussed, aiming to overcome current challenges in the clinic. In addition, integrating immunotherapy with various treatment modalities such as chemotherapy and photodynamic therapy can be facilitated through the utilization of nanoparticles, thereby enhancing the efficacy of cancer treatment. The future challenges and opportunities of using nanomaterials to reeducate the suppressive immune microenvironment of tumors are also discussed, with the aim of anticipating further advancements in this growing field.