bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural changes in Nelumbo flower petals during opening and closing
Authors: Ishizuna Fumiko , Yo Ukin , Yoshimura Natsumi , Shirai Atsushi , Aono Toshihiro , Tsutsumi Nobuhiro , Arimura Shin‐Ichi , Takanashi Hideki
Published: November 2024

Premise

Nelumbo nucifera is one of several plant species with flowers that typically open in the early morning and close by noon. This movement normally repeats for 3 days, with all petals falling off on day 4. However, detailed observations of flower movement in Nelumbo species are limited.

Methods

Movement of flowers on plants in growth chambers were observed using time‐lapse photography. Petals were examined with scanning electron microscopy or fixed and sectioned for light microscopy to determine whether changes in cell size contribute to petal elongation during flowering.

Results

This study is the first to microscopically observe petal cells of a Nelumbo species during flowering in controlled conditions. Petals elongated during the 4‐day flowering period. Inner petals were more elongated than the outer petals. Among the basal, central, and tip regions of a single petal, the cells in the basal region enlarged the most. Outer and inner epidermal cells in the basal region of the inner petals, on both adaxial and abaxial sides, gradually enlarged during the flowering period through cycles of repeated increases as the petals opened and decreases as they closed.

Conclusions

Petals opened and closed repeatedly as they elongated, primarily in their basal region. Cells in the basal region of the petal on the adaxial and abaxial sides periodically fluctuated in size, increased during flower opening and decreased during closing, but differences in these patterns were observed between the two sides, suggesting that one of the driving forces behind the opening and closing of flowers of Nelumbo species is the increase and decrease in the size of the petal cells.
Adherence to balanced transfusion among severely injured patients: A post hoc analysis of the RESTRIC trial
Authors: Aoki Makoto , Fukushima Kazunori , Hayakawa Mineji , Kudo Daisuke , Tagami Takashi , Oshima Kiyohiro , Kushimoto Shigeki
Published: November 2024

Aim

A balanced transfusion strategy has been a standard resuscitation method for trauma patients, and adherence to a massive transfusion protocol incorporating balanced transfusion is reported to reduce mortality. This study aimed to assess adherence to balanced transfusion among severely injured patients in Japan.

Methods

This study analyzes RESTRIC (restrictive transfusion strategy for critically injured patients) trial patients who were cluster‐randomized based on restrictive or liberal transfusion strategy. We defined two transfusion groups: massive transfusion group 1, which includes RBC transfusions of at least eight units within 6 h; and massive transfusion group 2, which includes RBC transfusions of at least 20 units within 24 h. Adherence to balanced transfusion was assessed as the ratios of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to red blood cells (RBC) and platelet concentrate (PC) to RBC ratio >0.5.

Results

Among 220 eligible patients, 98 (44.5%) were grouped as massive transfusion group 1 and 38 (17.3%) as massive transfusion group 2. The balanced transfusion in terms of the FFP to RBC ratio was nearly 100% for groups 1 and 2 over all periods. However, the balanced transfusion in terms of the PC to RBC ratio within 6 h were 51.0% for group 1 and 68.4% for group 2.

Conclusion

This study revealed that while the ratio of FFP to RBC was balanced among patients from the early phase, the ratio of PC to RBC was not fully balanced, particularly in the early phase.
Photoinduced Bartoli Indole Synthesis by the Oxidative Cleavage of Alkenes with Nitro(hetero)arenes
Authors: Qin Hongyun , Liu Ruihua , Wang Zemin , Xu Feng , Li Xiaowei , Shi Cong , Chen Jiashu , Shan Wenlong , Liu Chao , Xing Pan , Zhu Jiqiang , Li Xiangqian , Shi Dayong
Published: November 2024

Given the unique charm of dipole chemistry, intercepting N−O=C dipoles precisely generated by designed processes to develop novel reactivity has become a seminal challenge. The polar fragmentation of 1,3,2‐dioxazolidine species generated through the radical addition of excited nitro(hetero)arenes to alkenes represents a significantly underappreciated mechanism for generating N−O=C dipoles. Herein, we present a photoinduced Bartoli indole synthesis by the oxidative cleavage of alkenes with nitro(hetero)arenes. Various indoles and azaindoles are constructed through the multi‐step spontaneous rearrangement of carbonyl imine intermediates generated by the polar fragmentation of 1,3,2‐dioxazolidine species. Mechanism studies and DFT calculations support that the reaction involves radical cycloaddition, ozonolysis‐type cycloreversion, intramolecular H‐shift of carbonyl imines, and 3,3‐sigmatropic shift of O‐Alkenyl hydroxylamines, etc. The implementation of continuous‐ flow photochemistry, in particular, significantly enhances efficiency, thereby overcoming obstacles to the commercialization process.
Tetrahedral DNA Framework‐Based Spherical Nucleic Acids for Efficient siRNA Delivery
Authors: Li Jie , Mao Xiuhai , Zhao Tiantian , Fang Weina , Jin Yangyang , Liu Mengmeng , Fan Chunhai , Tian Yang
Published: November 2024

Spherical nucleic acids (SNAs) hold substantial therapeutic potential for the delivery of small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Nevertheless, their potential remains largely untapped due to the challenges of cytosolic delivery. Inspired by the dynamic, spiky architecture of coronavirus, an interface engineering approach based on a tetrahedral DNA framework (tDF) is demonstrated for the development of coronavirus‐mimicking SNAs. By exploiting their robustness and precise construction, tDFs are evenly arranged on the surface of core nanoparticles (NPs) with flexible conformations, generating a dynamic, spiky architecture. This spiky architecture in tetrahedral DNA framework‐based SNAs (tDF‐SNAs) substantially improve siRNAs duplex efficiency from 20 % to 95 %. Meanwhile, tDF‐SNAs changed the endocytosis pathway to clathrin‐independent cellular engulfment pathway and enhanced the cellular uptake efficiency. Due to these advances, the delivery efficiency of siRNA molecules by tDF‐SNAs is 1–2 orders of magnitude higher than that of SNAs, resulting in a 2‐fold increase in gene silencing efficacy. These results show promise in the development of bioinspired siRNAs delivery systems for intracellular applications.
Tuning Proton Affinity on Co−N−C Atomic Interface to Disentangle Activity‐Selectivity Trade‐off in Acidic Oxygen Reduction to H2O2
Authors: Chen Shanyong , Luo Tao , Wang Jingyu , Xiang Jiaqi , Li Xiaoqing , Ma Chao , Kao Cheng‐wei , Chan Ting‐Shan , Liu You‐Nian , Liu Min
Published: November 2024

In oxygen reduction reaction to H2O2 via two‐electron pathway (2e− ORR), adsorption strength of oxygen‐containing intermediates determines both catalytic activity and selectivity. However, it also causes activity‐selectivity trade‐off. Herein, we propose a novel strategy through modulating the interaction between protons and *OOH intermediates to break the activity‐selectivity trade‐off for highly active and selective 2e− ORR. Taking the typical cobalt–nitrogen–carbon single‐atom catalyst as an example, boron heteroatoms doped into second coordination sphere of CoN4 (Co1‐NBC) increase proton affinity on catalyst surface, facilitating proton attack on the former oxygen of *OOH and thereby promoting H2O2 formation. As a result, Co1‐NBC simultaneously achieves prominent 2e− ORR activity and selectivity in acid with onset potential of 0.724 V vs. RHE and H2O2 selectivity of 94 %, surpassing most reported catalysts. Furthermore, Co1‐NBC exhibits a remarkable H2O2 productivity of 202.7 mg cm−2 h−1 and a remarkable stability of 60 h at 200 mA cm−2 in flow cell. This work provides new insights into resolving activity‐selectivity trade‐off in electrocatalysis.
Early Detection of High‐Altitude Hypoxic Brain Injury by In Vivo Electrochemistry
Authors: Li Xinru , Zhu Boyu , Dong Nuo , Zhao Ziyi , Cao Jiayi , Zhou Lin , Gao Zhigang , Su Bin
Published: November 2024

High‐altitude hypoxic brain injury (HHBI) is a kind of acute mountain sickness and the survival rate of patients with HHBI can be improved only if it is detected and treated at the early stage. However, limited by speediness and accuracy, it is still very difficult for most of current approaches to realize the early detection of HHBI. We propose herein a novel strategy for this goal based on spatiotemporal changes in the brain oxygen level. As revealed by in vivo electrochemistry, the characteristic changes of brain oxygen level under the high‐altitude exposure are directly associated with the brain hypoxia status. Given brain hypoxia is the main pathogenesis of HHBI, the degree of HHBI can be diagnosed by the variation of brain oxygen, making the early detection of HHBI feasible. In addition, the risk of HHBI for mouse exposed to high‐altitude hypoxia environments can be also prognosed days in advance.
Localized Water Restriction in Ternary Eutectic Electrolytes for Ultra‐Low Temperature Hydrogen Batteries
Authors: Li Ziyue , Lin Yuxiao , Ruan Jiafeng , Liao Mochou , Wang Fengmei , Jiang Ruohan , Qu Xuelian , Li Qin , Yang Jinyu , Li Xinjie , Zhang Zihao , Li Yunsong , Sun Dalin , Fang Fang , Wang Fei
Published: November 2024

Proton batteries are promising candidates for next‐generation large‐scale energy storage in extreme conditions due to the small ionic radius and efficient transport of protons. Hydrogen gas, with its low working potentials, fast kinetics, and stability, further enhances the performance of proton batteries but necessitates the development of novel electrolytes with low freezing points and reduced corrosion. This work introduces a localized water restriction strategy by incorporating a tertiary component with a high donor number, which forms strong bonds with water molecules. This approach restricts free water molecules and reduces the average hydrogen bond ratio and strength. As‐prepared ternary eutectic electrolytes lowered the freezing point to −103 °C, significantly lower than the traditional binary electrolyte (9.5 m H3PO4, −93 °C). This electrolyte is highly compatible with the Cu0.79Co0.21[Fe(CN)6]0.64 ⋅ 4H2O (CoCuHCF) cathode, reducing material dissolution and current collector corrosion. The H2||CoCuHCF battery using this electrolyte demonstrated a high‐power density of 23664.3 W kg−1, excellent performance at −80 °C, and stable cyclability over 1000 cycles (>30 days) at −50 °C. These findings provide a framework for proton electrolytes, highlighting the potential of hydrogen batteries in challenging environments.
Pd/UiO‐66(Zr)‐2OH as a High‐Performance Catalyst for Hydrogen‐Enhanced Fenton Oxidation of Trimethoprim
Authors: Chen Qin‐Qin , Shen Xin‐Hao , Wang Yun‐Dong , Gao Ying , Liu Feng , Wu Jian‐Hua , Wang Xiao‐Wen , Jin Long , Ma San‐Jian , Li Juan‐Hong , Lin Zi‐Xia , Yang Hong‐Wei , Liu Xin
Published: November 2024

A novel catalyst material named Pd/UiO‐66(Zr)‐2OH was successfully developed and applied in a hydrogen‐promoted Fenton system for the efficient catalytic oxidation of the widely used antibiotic trimethoprim (TMP). The UiO‐66(Zr)‐2OH, as the carrier of catalyst in this work, was synthesized through a solvothermal method. The Pd0 nanoparticle, as the active center of the catalyst, was loaded onto its surface by the “ship‐in‐a‐bottle” strategy. The results showed that the composite Pd/UiO‐66(Zr)‐2OH demonstrated excellent catalytic performance during the reaction, achieving over 97% of TMP removal efficiency within 180 min under optimal conditions under the condition of only trace of iron without adding H2O2. This may be attributed to the fact that the [H], as a clean and efficient reducing agent, can be utilized to accelerate the regeneration of Fe2+ in the Fenton reaction, as well as in the in‐situ regeneration of H2O2. The key parameters affecting the removal efficiency of TMP, including the initial pH and concentration of Fe2+, the dosage of the synthesized material, the flow rate of H2 and the stirring speed were investigated systematically. The Pd/UiO‐66(Zr)‐2OH exhibited high stability and reusability, maintaining over 82% of its initial degradation efficiency of TMP after six reaction cycles. The mechanistic insight revealed that the system primarily relied on the generation of hydroxyl radical (·OH) and singlet oxygen (1O2) for the degradation of TMP, which was verified through quenching experiments and electron spin resonance (ESR). The degradation pathway of TMP was elucidated by analyzing intermediates and the reduction in total organic carbon (TOC). This research offers novel conceptual insights into the evolution and application of advanced oxidation technologies, efficient degradation of emerging pollutants, and expansion of pathways for hydrogen resource utilization.
Fibrous‐biocomposites scaffold of natural rubber with bioactive glass–ceramic particles obtained by solution blowing spinning
Authors: Lima Luiz Rogério Monteiro , Vilches José Luiz , Caetano Guilherme Ferreira , Silva Lais Dantas , Soares Viviane Oliveira , dos Santos Renivaldo José , Sanches Alex Otávio , Malmonge José Antônio , Yarin Alexander L. , Silva Michael Jones
Published: November 2024

Bioactive glass‐ceramics (BGs) are widely used in clinical applications due to their excellent biodynamic and biological properties, though their low mechanical strength limits their use in load‐bearing contexts. This study aimed to develop fibrous biocomposite scaffolds based on natural rubber (NR) reinforced with BG particles, such as biosilicato (BioS) and 45S5‐K (BL0), to improve tensile strength, biocompatibility, and bioactivity for biomedical applications, such as tissue engineering. Morphological, tensile, thermal, and biological tests were conducted to evaluate the impact of BG particles on the NR fibrous matrix. TG/DTG analysis revealed similar decomposition profiles for NR/BioS and NR/BL0 biocomposites compared to NR mats, with primary degradation occurring in the 290–450°C range. Tensile tests demonstrated that the addition of 30 mass% BioS or BL0 enhanced the ultimate tensile strength (σbreak) of the NR matrix from 1.44 ± 0.08 to 3.38 ± 1.31 MPa (NR/BioS) and 1.97 ± 0.53 MPa (NR/BL0). The Cole–Cole plot indicated system heterogeneity and strong NR‐BG particle interactions. Cytotoxicity tests revealed over 70% MSC viability for NR, NR/BioS, and NR/BL0 biocomposites, meeting ISO 10993‐5:2009 standards. These findings suggest that incorporating BioS and BL0 enhances the mechanical and biological properties of NR‐based scaffolds, making them suitable for biomedical applications, such as bone regeneration.
A Computational Mechanistic Study on Copper Autoreduction in Cu‐CHA Zeolite Catalysts
Authors: Wen Miao , Liu Zhuyang , Liu Chong , Zhuang Wei
Published: November 2024

The activation of Cu‐zeolite catalysts is accompanied by an autoreduction reaction, in which a part of Cu(II) species is spontaneously reduced to Cu(I) species. The stoichiometry of autoreduction in which the release of one O2 is accompanied by the reduction of four Cu(II) to Cu(I) has been proposed, but the detailed mechanism of this autoreduction remains unclear. In this work, we used DFT calculations to study the autoreduction mechanism in Cu‐CHA zeolites. The two reduction mechanisms of [CuOH]+ to Cu+ in CHA‐type zeolite were systematically studied. In Mechanism I, two [CuOH]+ react via dehydration to form [Cu−O−Cu]2+, and the further reaction of two [Cu−O−Cu]2+ to produce O2 is the most critical step, which requires four charge‐compensating framework Al in close proximity. In Mechanism II, the production of O2 occurs via [CuO]+ intermediates, and the generation of possible [CuO]+ is the most critical step. The exploration of autoreduction reactions in a variety of Cu‐CHA models with different Al sittings shows that the O−O distances between two intermediate precursors, i. e., two [Cu−O−Cu]2+ in Mechanism I, or two [CuO]+ in Mechanism II, are key factors determining the activation barriers of O2 production during autoreduction.
N, P Co‐Doped Hard Carbon Anodes for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Batteries with Enhanced Capacity Retention and Cycle Stability
Authors: Zheng Penglun , Wu Jing , Zhao Haihan , Li Junwei , Liu Zhihong , Zheng Yun
Published: November 2024

Compared to the traditional graphite anode, heteroatom‐doped polymer carbon materials have high capacity retention due to their high porosity and porous structure. Therefore, they have great potential for application in lithium‐ion battery (LIB) anodes. In this work, an N, P co‐doped precursor polymer material (MBPp), synthesized via a one‐pot method using bisphenol‐A (C‐source), melamine (N‐source), and 9,10‐Dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (P‐source). The resulting N, P‐co‐doped hard carbon materials (MBPs) were prepared at various pyrolysis temperatures, yielding microporous, mesoporous, and macroporous structures. MBP materials demonstrated excellent electrochemical performance as LIB anodes. Notably, MBP‐900 achieved a reversible capacity of 262 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 (in 0.005–2.0 V voltage range) with a capacity retention rate of 97.1 % after 1000 cycles. These findings highlight the significance of MBP materials, which possess numerous defects, large layer gaps, and excellent cycle stability, in advancing the development of polymer anode materials for LIBs.
Correlation Between Radio Loudness and the Eddington Ratio in Quasars
Authors: Shen Jing‐Jing , Zeng Xiang‐Tao , Huang Wei‐Rong , Tang Ze‐Yuan , Fan Jun‐Hui
Published: November 2024

Quasars can be categorized into radio‐loud and radio‐quiet populations based on radio properties. The physical mechanisms underlying this dichotomy have long been an active area of investigation. In this work, we analyze multi‐wavelength data from 851 quasars matched between the SDSS DR14 and FIRST catalogs, requiring emission line measurements with signal‐to‐noise ratios > 3, we fit quasar optical continuum spectra and compute the radio loudness, luminosities, and Eddington ratios. We classify quasars as radio‐loud or radio‐quiet using a dividing line of . We find that the distribution of the Eddington ratio and radio luminosity is different between the radio‐loud and radio‐quiet quasars, and the correlation between the Eddington ratio and radio loudness is disparate as well. The Eddington ratio shows a weakly positive correlation with radio loudness in both the whole sample and radio‐loud quasars, which imply that the Eddington ratio contributes to the radio loudness but it is not the dominant factor and that additional factors influence relativistic jet production in radio‐loud quasars. However, the Eddington ratio is anti‐correlated with radio loudness in radio‐quiet quasars, potentially related to the properties of the accretion disk.
Wood‐inspired High Ionic Conductivity Hydrogel Electrolytes for Flexible Supercapacitors
Authors: Gao Chenxiang , Liu Yue , Zhang Jiuzhou , Li Hui , Liu Yang , Gu Jiyou , Ma Tianyi , Huo Pengfei
Published: November 2024

Hydrogel is a promising electrolyte substrate, but its ionic conductivity needs further improvement. In this paper, we propose a strategy to improve the ionic conductivity of hydrogels with flexible wood and fabricate a flexible wood‐based poly(acrylic acid‐acrylamide) composite hydrogel electrolyte (WHE) by delignification and in‐situ polymerization. The flexible wood as a porous backbone for hydrogels can regulate ion transport pathways to improve the ionic conductivity of hydrogels. The straight pores of wood confine the transport of electrolyte ions along the shortest path, resulting in a high ionic conductivity of 3.0×10−2 S cm−1, which is great in composite polymer electrolytes. We have systematically investigated the effect of the degree of delignification and the polymerization process on the overall performance of the electrolyte. The optimized supercapacitor exhibits a specific capacitance of 155.64 F g−1 and an energy density of 7.45 W h kg−1. The WHE is applied to flexible supercapacitor, which exhibits good flexibility under bending conditions and can maintain similar electrochemical performance at a wide range of bending angles. This work provides an effective strategy for the efficient use of wood resources and the development of low‐cost, environmentally friendly, and high‐performance hydrogel electrolyte materials.
Bilayer Boost to UV Assisted Supercapacitors: Enhanced Performance with Transparent TiO2/MoO3 Heterojunction Electrode
Authors: Ezhilmaran Bhuvaneshwari , Madhavanunni Rekha Sreelakshmi , Venkataprasad Bhat Sarpangala
Published: November 2024

Photo‐assisted supercapacitor is a promising smart device component for achieving both energy conversion and storage. The photo‐assisted functionality in a supercapacitor is realized through the choice of photo responsive electrode material under suitable illumination conditions. The well‐known electrochemically active electrode materials are wide band gap semiconductors which absorb strongly in UV light. However, most of the prior studies on photo‐assisted supercapacitors used visible light. Herein, we present a transparent TiO2/MoO3 bi‐layer heterojunction made by simple solution process as an efficient electrode for photo‐assisted supercapacitors under UV light illumination. The electrochemical performance of the electrode is significantly enhanced even with a less intense (0.05 mW/cm2) UV light, compared to dark as well as the single layer electrode under same illumination condition. The highest areal capacitance of 63.25 mF/cm2 at 0.1 mA/cm2 is achieved, that surpasses most of the recent relevant reports. The synergetic effect of UV illumination and the built‐in potential at the type II heterojunction interface encourages ion insertion and better collection of the photo‐generated carriers. The unique bi‐layer design also leads to better rate capability features. Thus, the work presents a new prospect for the development of transparent energy storage devices to be used in future smart technologies.
In vitro gametogenesis: Towards competent oocytes
Authors: Aizawa Eishi , Peters Antoine H. F. M. , Wutz Anton
Published: November 2024

Production of oocytes from pluripotent cell cultures in a dish represents a new paradigm in stem cell and developmental biology and has implications for how we think about life. The spark of life for the next generation occurs at fertilization when sperm and oocyte fuse. In animals, gametes are the only cells that transmit their genomes to the next generation. Oocytes contain in addition a large cytoplasm with factors that direct embryonic development. Reconstitution of mouse oocyte and embryonic development in culture provides experimental opportunities and facilitates an unprecedented understanding of molecular mechanisms. However, the application of in vitro gametogenesis to reproductive medicine or infertility treatment remains challenging. One significant concern is the quality of in vitro‐derived oocytes. Here, we review the current understanding and identify limitations in generating oocytes in vitro. From this basis, we explore opportunities for future improvements of the in vitro approach to generating high‐quality oocytes.
Corporate sustainability commitment in the Middle East and North Africa region: Impact on innovation and firm performance
Authors: Sdiri Hanen , Ammar Ines
Published: November 2024

This study examines the effects of corporate sustainability factors (CSFs)—specifically gender diversity, energy practices, and environmental practices—on innovation and their subsequent impact on firm performance in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. By integrating Absorptive Capacity Theory, we explore how these CSFs drive innovation, contributing to broader sustainable development goals. We analyze the impact of innovation on firm performance using the resource‐based view (RBV). Utilizing secondary data from the World Bank Enterprise Survey (WBES), we employ a two‐stage instrumental variable regression (IV‐2SLS) to address endogeneity and establish causal relationships. Our findings reveal that stakeholder engagement through gender diversity, energy practices, and environmental practices significantly enhances innovation, which, in turn, drives firm performance. Diverse leadership fosters creativity and innovation, while energy‐efficient and environmentally sustainable practices reduce costs, improve brand reputation, and align with sustainable development goals. These insights underscore essential policy implications for promoting environmental policy, clean production, and sustainable innovation ecosystems. Encouraging MENA firms to engage stakeholders and adopt sustainable practices can drive economic prosperity and contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Pituitary hyperplasia secondary to primary hypothyroidism in adolescents: A medical case report and literature review
Authors: Yuan Xiangfeng , Zhu Jiangyu , Su Xiaoyu , Tan Huiling , Wang Siqi , Zheng Xueying , Ding Yu , Li Sumei
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

Prompt and precise diagnosis of pituitary hyperplasia secondary to primary hypothyroidism (PHPH) is crucial to avoid unwarranted pituitary surgery and potential permanent impairment. Although PHPH may present similarly to pituitary adenoma, it is responsive to thyroxine therapy, underscoring the critical role of differential diagnosis in the treatment of adolescent patients.
Liver metastasized pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor in a 17‐year‐old female: A case report
Authors: Sultan Mahmoud , Al Hasan Azad , Khazem Nisreen
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PNETs) are rare and often misdiagnosed due to their vague symptoms and tumor heterogeneity. Early detection using computed tomography (CT) is essential, particularly in regions without access to advanced diagnostic tools like immunohistochemistry and genetic testing.

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare tumors in adults and extremely rare in the pediatric population, as pancreatic NETs (pNETs) have an incidence rate of <0.1 per million. We present a case of a 17‐year‐old female with a liver metastasized pNET. A 17‐year‐old female with a history of intermittent abdomen‐back pain presented to the clinic with severe upper abdominal pain radiating to the shoulder. The routine tests were normal. An ultrasound showed multiple lesions in the liver, which were confirmed by a computed tomography (CT) that uncovered a pancreatic lesion too. A liver biopsy proved it was a metastasized pNET with positive NET markers on IMC staining. The metaiodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) scan flared the liver lesion. The patient was started on Octreotide long‐acting release (LAR) 30 mg once monthly. The rarity of these tumors makes their diagnosis difficult, but they should not be omitted and must be considered when there are long‐lasting symptoms that are not compatible with common illnesses. These tumors are curable in their early stages.
Periapical cemento‐osseous dysplasia masquerading as asymptomatic chronic apical periodontitis in a Chinese woman: A case report
Authors: Ma Yunjing , Fang Dong , Ji Mei
Published: November 2024

Key Clinical Message

Cemento‐osseous dysplasia (COD) belongs to a group of fibrous osseous disorders that can masquerade as periapical inflammatory conditions in the jawbones. We present a rare case of COD occurring in a patient who also had periapical periodontitis concurrently. When faced with a patient exhibiting no symptoms, diagnosis may be challenging.

COD is a fibrous osseous disorder similar to periapical chronic inflammatory conditions and other cysts in the jaw bones on the radiograph. There is a rare case of COD occurring in a 49‐year‐old Chinese woman who also had chronic periapical periodontitis concurrently. The lesions were incidentally discovered in the mandibular anterior tooth region during the patient's imaging examination. The patient exhibited no symptoms, and diagnosing the conditions may be challenging due to the confusingly similar radiological features that present as a radiolucent lesion in the periapical region. The final diagnosis was made through pulp vitality tests, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), and clinical examinations. The COD was recommended for annual follow‐up. Root canal therapy has been performed for chronic apical periodontitis. According to the diagnostic process of COD, a thorough history check, multiple clinical examinations, and imaging studies should be emphasized to prevent misdiagnosis and avoid unnecessary or inappropriate therapies. The patient was followed up for 6 years. The recovery of chronic apical periodontitis in tooth #31 and the transformation of osteolytic and osteogenesis of COD had been observed in CBCT.
Catalase‐Based Air‐Cathode for Biocompatible Zinc–Air Battery
Authors: García‐Caballero Valentín , López‐León Miguel , Abad José , Mellado José M. Rodríguez , Giner‐Casares Juan J. , Romero Antonio J. Fernández , Cano Manuel
Published: November 2024

The use of catalase (CAT) from bovine liver as an electrocatalyst in the air electrode of a primary zinc–air battery (ZAB) with neutral electrolyte (pH 7.4) is reported. First, the use of Nafion for immobilizing CAT onto electrode surface allowed to obtain long‐term stability of the catalytic activity of CAT. Besides, analysis of the CAT and CAT‐Nafion as catalysts for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) was carried out by linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) using a rotating ring‐disk electrode (RRDE), demonstrating a four‐electron ORR mechanism. Finally, CAT and CAT‐Nafion were tested as air electrodes in flooded ZAB and compared against human hemoglobin‐based ZAB. Our results demonstrated the significant influence of the protein coating of the heme groups on the ZAB performance, affecting greatly the discharge capacity and the power density.
Enhanced Electrocatalytic Capacity of Two POM@NH2‐MIL‐101(Fe) Composites for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Huang Xiaoxue , Kang Hongji , Wang Huizhen , Zhang Daopeng , Yang Lu , Zhou Zhen
Published: November 2024

The development and exploration of efficient bifunctional electrocatalysts for water splitting are in high demand and have garnered significant attention in recent years. Herein, by incorporating the advantages of catalytically active polyoxometalates (POMs) and structural stable metal–organic frameworks (MOFs), two POM@MOFs composite materials, Ni4Mo12@Fe and Co4Mo12@Fe, have been successfully prepared via the encapsulation of POMs anions, [MoV12O30(μ2‐OH)10H2{NiII4(H2O)12}]∙14H2O (noted as Ni4Mo12) and [MoV12O30(μ2‐OH)10 H2{CoII(H2O)3}4]∙12H2O (noted as Co4Mo12), into the cavities of MOFs NH2‐MIL‐101(Fe), respectively. Compared to each individual components, Ni4Mo12@Fe and Co4Mo12@Fe composites, as heterogeneous electrocatalysts, both showed enhanced electrocatalytic capacities for efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) under alkaline conditions with overpotentials of 332.64 mV for Ni4Mo12@Fe and 352.64 mV for Co4Mo12@Fe at 10 mA cm−2. Additionally, the enhanced electrocatalytic capacities of these two composites could also achieve towards hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Such a POMs‐assisted strategy for the formation of POM@MOFs composites, described here, paves a new avenue for the development of highly economical, active nonnoble metal bifunctional electrocatalysts for OER and HER.
Morphology‐Dependent Catalytic Activity of ZnFe2O4 Spinel Toward Light Olefins from Fischer–Tropsch Synthesis
Authors: Lu Qichao , Li Changxiao , Li Jie , Tang Qiong , Liu Lei , Dong Jinxiang
Published: November 2024

The shape‐defined ZnFe2O4 spinel with cubic and octahedral morphology was hydrothermally synthesized, respectively, and used as catalyst precursor for Fischer–Tropsch synthesis (FTS). The structure of ZnFe2O4 spinel was changed to ZnO and Fe5C2 (Fe5C2/ZnO) after reduction and carbonization. Interestingly, ZnFe2O4 with cubic morphology exhibited much higher catalytic activity and selectivity toward low‐carbon olefins (C2–C4) than the octahedral one under identical conditions, and the latter tended to produce the saturated alkanes. The primary properties of ZnFe2O4 materials before and after reduction were systematically studied through a series of characteristic technologies to reveal the difference in catalytic performance between the two ZnFe2O4 spinels with different morphologies.
Recent Progress in Situ Application of H2O2 Produced via Catalytic Synthesis
Authors: Zhang Shuxin , Zeng Debin , Wang Hui , Tang Xiaolong , Jiang Yanbin , Yu Changlin
Published: November 2024

Industrial production of H2O2 requires lots of energy and causes environmental pollution. Moreover, in subsequent applications, much economic loss could be produced during the transportation process of H2O2 and its dilution process. Therefore, it is highly desirable for in situ application of H2O2. In recent years, catalytic synthesis of H2O2, e. g., direct catalytic synthesis, electrocatalytic synthesis, and photocatalytic synthesis, has attracted more and more attention because the continuous and low‐concentration H2O2 produced by catalytic synthesis can be directly used for the oxidation of organic compounds, effectively avoiding the shortcomings of the current industrial route. Here, we briefly reviewed the latest processes for the catalytic production of H2O2 via various routes. On this basis, we summarized and discussed the in situ application of H2O2 in typical organic conversion reactions, including the ammoximation of ketones, the oxidation of alcohols, the oxidation of C−H bonds, and the oxidation of olefins. Some in situ coupling reactions have shown excellent performance with high conversion and selectivity, and the economic cost has been significantly reduced. Finally, the shortcomings of the in situ utilization of H2O2 in coupling reactions were analyzed, and some strategies for promoting the efficiency of the H2O2 application in organic synthesis were proposed.
Cu(I)‐Catalyzed Silylation and Germylation of Azauracils
Authors: Mahato Frenki , Ghosh Asim Kumar , Hajra Alakananda
Published: November 2024

The current study demonstrates a Cu(I) catalyzed direct C(sp2)−H silylation and germylation of azauracil using triphenylsilane and triphenylgermane. A broad scope, excellent functional group tolerance, and suitability for large‐scale reactions are exhibited in this protocol. Moreover, this method can be readily applied to structurally complex bioactive molecules. Experimental results suggest a radical mechanistic pathway for the reaction.
Direct Experimental Characterization of a Sialyl Cation
Authors: Dahlmann Franziska , Griesbach Caleb E. , Torres‐Boy América Y. , von Helden Gert , Peczuh Mark W. , Pagel Kevin , Greis Kim
Published: November 2024

Sialic acids are monosaccharide residues involved in several biological processes. Controlling the stereoselectivity of sialylation reactions is challenging and mechanistic studies on the structure of its intermediate, the sialyl cation, are scarce. Here it is shown that a sialyl cation can be generated and isolated from an ionized sialic acid precursor. This short‐lived species is structurally characterized for the first time using cryogenic infrared spectroscopy. In combination with quantum chemical calculations, the results reveal that the positive charge at the anomeric carbon of the sialyl cation is stabilized by remote participation of the C5‐NHAc group leading to the formation of a bridged structure. In this structure, the β‐side is shielded from nucleophilic attack, potentially explaining the α‐selectivity of this building block in SN1‐type sialylation reactions. Other modes of participation are energetically unfavored and cannot be observed experimentally.
PROTOCOL: Risk and protective factors for child sexual abuse and interventions against child sexual abuse: An umbrella review
Authors: Zych Izabela , Marín‐López Inmaculada
Published: November 2024

This is the protocol for a Campbell Collaboration systematic review. Our objective is to conduct an umbrella review to synthesize published and unpublished systematic reviews focused on risk and protective factors for child sexual abuse and effectiveness of interventions against child sexual abuse perpetration and victimization. Specific research questions are: (i) what are the risk and protective factors for child sexual abuse victimization, and what are their relative strength and/or magnitude for predicting child sexual abuse victimization? (ii) what are the risk and protective factors for child sexual abuse perpetration, and what are their relative strength and/or magnitude for predicting child sexual abuse perpetration? (iii) are interventions aimed at reducing and/or preventing child sexual abuse effective? (iv) what are the moderators that increase or decrease effectiveness of the interventions? Efforts to decrease child sexual abuse need to be based on research, but more accessible evidence regarding the breadth of risk and protective factors and effectiveness of interventions to reduce child sexual abuse needs to be provided to policymakers. This will be the first umbrella review that comprehensively synthesizes findings of the previous systematic reviews that focus on risk and protective factors for child sexual abuse and interventions to prevent or reduce child sexual abuse. The results will be able to inform enhanced prevention policy and programs, and regulatory measures for specific contexts of child sexual abuse.
Quinoline‐ and Pyrimidine‐based Allosteric Modulators of the Sarco/Endoplasmic Reticulum Calcium ATPase
Authors: Paula Stefan , Jahani Farnaz , Almahmodi Dina , Sobota Sydni , Devaraja Shiffany , O'Brien Nicholas S. , Young Kelly A. , Prichard Kate , McCluskey Adam
Published: November 2024

Small‐molecule allosteric activators of the enzyme sarco/endoplasmic reticulum calcium ATPase (SERCA) hold promise as novel experimental tools to manipulate intracellular calcium concentrations and as therapeutic agents to treat medical conditions associated with elevated cytosolic calcium levels. Here, we synthesized and characterized 20 analogs of the known allosteric SERCA activator CDN1163 and tested their ability to stimulate SERCA activity. The structures of the compounds varied in the alkyl group of the parent scaffold's ether moiety as well as in the composition of the nitrogenous aromatic ring system. The most active compounds exhibited potencies in the sub‐micromolar range while increasing enzyme activity by more than 25 %. The observed structure‐activity relationships indicated that bulky alkyl groups in the ether moiety along with a quinoline ring methyl substituent were beneficial for activity. Replacement of the quinoline by a pyrimidine ring system reduced activity. To conceive a potential mechanism of action, we generated a molecular model of the transition state of SERCA when undergoing the rate‐limiting step of its catalytic cycle. Subsequent blind docking with CDN1163 identified a high‐affinity binding site close to the enzyme's ATP binding pocket, suggesting that the activators may accelerate SERCA's catalytic cycle by aiding in ATP binding and positioning.
Revisiting the Exposed Surface Characteristics on the Stability and Photoelectric Properties of MAPbI3
Authors: Zhang Bingdong , Shi Ruiyang , Ma Hongke , Ma Kai , Gao Zhengyang , Li Hao
Published: November 2024

CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3), as a promising candidate of photovoltaic materials, has attracted extensive interests due to its excellent photoelectric properties and low preparation cost. However, the relationship between synthesis parameter and performance is still unclear due to the overlook of exposed surface characteristics, limiting the mass‐production and commercialization of MAPbI3. Therefore, it is necessary to clarify the stability and photoelectric properties of different exposed surfaces of MAPbI3 under humid environment. In this work, the stability and photoelectric properties of the MAI‐terminated and PbI2‐terminated of MAPbI3 (001) were thoroughly investigated using density functional theory calculation. To study the stability of exposed surface, adsorption energy of water molecules, ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD), mean square displacement (MSD) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) were calculated. MSD of PbI2‐terminated surface is greater by two orders of magnitude compared to MAI‐terminated surface. For the photoelectric properties of MAPbI3, the bandgap, absorption coefficients, joint density of states (JDOS) and dielectric constants were investigated. The inhibitory effect of water on the photoelectric performance for PbI2‐terminated surface is more significant than that of MAI‐terminated surface. Although the photoelectric properties of water molecules adsorption on MAI‐terminated surface is basically unchanged, the diffusion of water molecules reduces the photoelectric properties of MAPbI3. Overall, the stability and photoelectric properties of MAI‐terminated surface are superior to PbI2‐terminated surface. Therefore, we strongly advocate paying attention to the exposed surface of MAPbI3 during the thin film production process and adjusting synthesis parameters to prepare MAI‐terminated surface dominated thin film, which should substantially improve the performance of MAPbI3 in the application.
Analysis of Tandem Repeats in Short‐Read Sequencing Data: From Genotyping Known Pathogenic Repeats to Discovering Novel Expansions
Authors: Halman Andreas , Lonsdale Andrew , Oshlack Alicia
Published: November 2024

Short tandem repeats (STRs) and variable‐number tandem repeats (VNTRs) are repetitive genomic sequences seen widely throughout the genome. These repeat expansions are currently known to cause ∼60 diseases, with expansions in new loci linked to rare diseases continuing to be discovered. Genome sequencing is an important tool for detecting disease‐causing variants and several computational tools have been developed to analyze tandem repeats from genomic data, enabling the genotyping and the identification of expanded alleles. However, guidelines for conducting the analysis of these repeats and, more importantly, for assessing the findings are lacking. Understanding the tools and their technical limitations is important for accurately interpreting the results. This article provides detailed, step‐by‐step instructions for three key use cases in STR analysis from short‐read genome sequencing data, which are also applicable to smaller VNTRs. First, it demonstrates an approach for genotyping known pathogenic loci and the identification of clinically significant expansions. Second, we offer guidance on defining tandem repeat loci and conducting genome‐wide genotyping studies, which is also applicable to diploid organisms other than humans. Third, instructions are provided on how to find novel expansions at loci not previously known to be associated with disease, aiding in the discovery of new pathogenic loci. Moreover, we introduce the use of newly‐developed helper tools that enable a complete and streamlined tandem repeat analysis protocol by addressing the gaps in current methods. All three protocols are compatible with human hg19, hg38, and the latest telomere‐to‐telomere (hs1) reference genomes. Additionally, this protocol provides an overview and discussion on how to interpret genotyping results. © 2024 The Author(s). Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Genotyping known pathogenic tandem repeat loci

Alternate Protocol: Genotyping known pathogenic tandem repeat loci with STRipy

Support Protocol 1: Installation of tools and ExpansionHunter catalog modification

Basic Protocol 2: Performing genome‐wide genotyping of tandem repeats

Basic Protocol 3: Discovering de novo tandem repeat expansions

Support Protocol 2: Compiling ExpansionHunter Denovo from source code and generating STR profiles
Talk green, act brown: Transition risks and drilling investments of U.S. upstream oil and gas firms
Authors: Yeo Yun Dong
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the relationship between upstream oil and gas firms' proactiveness in addressing climate change transition risks and their drilling investments. We propose that due to limited capabilities to transition to renewable energy, these firms may strategically display proactiveness to greenwash their intentions to increase drilling activities. Leveraging a unique dataset comprising manually collected information on upstream firms' drilling investments, we find empirical evidence supporting our hypotheses. Specifically, firms showing greater proactiveness toward transition risk during earnings calls paradoxically increase their drilling investments. Additionally, high oil prices negatively moderate this relationship by creating a lucrative environment that benefits stakeholders, such as shareholders and investors, and simultaneously alleviates internal resource constraints, thereby reducing the need for greenwashing. This study contributes to the literature by illustrating how firms, under significant societal pressure but lacking transition capabilities, employ greenwashing tactics to obscure their investment activities.
An Efficient Cathode Catalyst for Rechargeable Zinc‐air Batteries based on the Derivatives of MXene@ZIFs
Authors: Zhao Fei , Kang Li , Long Jilan , Chen Keyu , Ding Simeng
Published: November 2024

Oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are crucial processes at the cathode of zinc‐air batteries. Developing highly efficient and durable electrocatalysts at the air cathode is significant for the practical application of rechargeable zinc‐air batteries. Herein, N‐doped layered MX containing Co2P/Ni2P nanoparticles is synthesized by growing CoNi‐ZIF on the surface and interlayers of the two‐dimensional material MXene (Ti2C3) followed by phosphating calcination. The growth of CoNi‐ZIF on the surface of MXene results in the attenuation of high‐temperature structural damage of MXene, which in turn leads to the formation of Co2P/Ni2P@MX with a hierarchical configuration, higher electron conductivity, and abundant active sites. The optimized Co2P/Ni2P@MX achieves a half‐wave potential of 0.85 V for the ORR and an overpotential of 345 mV for the OER. In addition, DFT calculations were adopted to investigate the mechanism at the atomic and molecular levels. The liquid zinc‐air battery with Co2P/Ni2P@MX as the cathode exhibits a specific capacity of 783.7 mAh g‐1 and exceeds 280 h (840 cycles) cycle stability, superior to zinc‐air batteries constructed by the cathode of commercial Pt/C+RuO2 and other previous works. Furthermore, a solid‐state battery synthesized with Co2P/Ni2P@MX as the cathode exhibits stable cycle performance (154 h/462 cycles).