bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Controlled Lipid Domain Positioning and Polarization in Confined Minimal Cell Models
Authors: Nakazawa Koyomi , Lévrier Antoine , Rudiuk Sergii , Yamada Ayako , Morel Mathieu , Baigl Damien 
Published: December 2024

AbstractGiant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) are widely used minimal cell models where essential biological features can be reproduced, isolated and studied. Although precise spatio‐temporal distribution of membrane domains is a process of crucial importance in living cells, it is still highly challenging to generate anisotropic GUVs with domains at user‐defined positions. Here we describe a novel and robust method to control the spatial position of lipid domains of liquid‐ordered (Lo)/liquid‐disordered (Ld) phase in giant unilamellar vesicles. Our strategy consists in confining Lo/Ld phase‐separating GUVs in microfluidic channels to define free curved regions where the minority‐phase domains localize and coalesce by decreasing the line energy through domain fusion. We show that this process is governed by the respective fraction of the two phases, and not by the chemical nature of the lipids involved. The spatial position and number of domains are controlled by the design of the confining microchannel and could result in polarized GUVs with a controllable number of poles. The developed method is versatile and user‐friendly, while allowing multiple single‐vesicle experiments in parallel.
Unconventional Interconnected High‐Entropy Alloy Nanodendrites for Remarkably Efficient C−C Bond Cleavage toward Complete Ethanol Oxidation
Authors: Wang Yan , Meng Huiying , Yu Renqin , Hong Jie , Zhang Yifan , Xia Zhonghong , Wang Yong 
Published: December 2024

AbstractDeveloping ethanol oxidation electrocatalysts with high catalytic activity, durability, and resistance to CO poisoning remains a major challenge. In recent years, high‐entropy alloys (HEAs) with unique physical and chemical properties have garnered substantial attention. Herein, a class of HEA nanodendrites are designed by a simple wet‐chemical method. The mass activity and specific activity of the septenary PtIrRhCoFeNiCu high‐entropy alloy catalyst are 2.13 A mgPt−1/1.05 A mgPt+Ir+Rh−1 and 2.95 mA cm−2, which reach 5.76‐/2.84‐fold and 5.57‐fold improvements relative to commercial Pt/C (0.37 A mgPt−1 and 0.53 mA cm−2), respectively. Remarkably, after the i‐t test of up to 100,000 s and the accelerated durability test of 1500 cycles, 81.22 % and 68.54 % of the initial mass activity are well retained, respectively. The lattice distortion‐associated local tensile strain as demonstrated by increased Pt−Pt bond length enhances ethanol adsorption and reduces reaction barriers. Moreover, hysteresis diffusion effect induced by lattice distortion in the HEA nanodendrites contributes to their superb ethanol oxidation stability. In situ infrared absorption spectroscopy reveals that the three HEA nanodendrites mainly follow C1 pathway with C−C bond breaking to form CO followed by CO oxidation especially at a wide range of high potentials. Theoretical calculations reveal that among these HEAs, PtIrRhCoFeNiCu possesses the lowest energy barrier for C−C bond scission due to synergy among Pt/Ir/Rh and water dissociation due to synergy among Co/Fe/Ni/Cu. This work provides insights to design unique HEA nanostructures with extraordinary catalytic performances and selectivity compared to conventional nanoparticles.
Polyurethane Elastomers Strengthened by Pseudo[1]rotaxanes Based on Pillararenes
Authors: He Lang , Wei Jialin , Ren Zhiqiang , Li Yunxia , Zhang Zibin , Li Guangfeng , Huang Feihe , Li Shijun 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAs a unique property of the interlocked structures, rotaxane allows for intramolecular motions between its wheel and axle components. Introduction of rotaxanes into polymers can endow them with distinctive macroscopic features and outstanding mechanical properties. Here, we prepare a copillar[5]arene with a hydroxyl and an amino‐group on each end, which can spontaneously form a pseudo[1]rotaxane through intramolecular hydrogen bonds. This pseudo[1]rotaxane possesses a releasable extra alkyl chain, which is then incorporated into a linear polyurethane by reacting with a diisocyanate to prepare polyurethane elastomers with spring‐like structures. The results of stress‐strain test and dynamic mechanical analysis all indicate that sliding motions of the axle part on the pseudo[1]rotaxane in the polymer skeleton can greatly dissipate energy, which endows the elastomers with higher toughness and better fatigue resistance. Moreover, the addition of moderate amount of cuprous bromide to form cuprous‐thioether coordination in the polymers can further improve the mechanical properties.
Unprecedented Deep Ultraviolet (DUV) Birefringence in Fluorides Constructed from Linear π‐Group Anisotropic Structure Building Units
Authors: Li Meng‐Yue , Liu Xin , Liu Yi‐Chen , Wang Rui‐Xi , Guo Jingyu , Wu Li‐Ming , Chen Ling 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAdvancing laser technologies requires maximizing the anisotropy of crystalline media and overcoming current birefringence limitations. We introduce the strategy of linear π group anisotropic structure building units (ABUCB), leading to an unprecedented large birefringence (Δn), a record‐high Δnobv. of 0.152 in sodium bis(dicyanoborato)fluoride (Na[BF2(CN)2]), the highest reported among deep ultraviolet (DUV) materials. This value is 35 % greater than state‐of‐the‐art α‐BBO and 1167 % greater than MgF2. Density functional theory analyses suggest that the linear π group enhances bulk optical anisotropy and ensures a shorter DUV absorption edge. These results establish Na[BF2(CN)2] as a groundbreaking DUV birefringent material and open new avenues for research into extending π groups and exploring additional possibilities.
Photosynthesis of H2O2 using Phenothiazine‐Based Covalent‐Organic Frameworks Mimicking Coenzyme Q
Authors: Peng Yaoyao , Yuan Lewang , Liu Kang‐Kai , Guan Zong‐Jie , Jin Shangbin , Fang Yu 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMimicking natural enzymes through artificial enzyme engineering represents a powerful strategy to fine‐tune the performance of photocatalysts, while the manipulation of electron transfer systems through atomic precision control is challenging. Herein, we reported a series of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) based on progressively oxidized phenothiazine (PTH) core as the platform for emulating Coenzyme Q, achieved through meticulous stepwise adjustments of their redox states. Compared to the original PTH‐S‐COF, the COFs with incrementally oxidized sulfur sites exhibited enhanced charge transfer efficiencies, facilitating efficient electron donation to O2 and thereby providing a favorable pathway for H2O2 synthesis. Notably, the PTH‐SO2‐COF achieved a remarkable synthesis rate of 7755 μmol g−1 h−1, marking a 720 % improvement over the PTH‐S‐COF baseline. Furthermore, upon adjusting the sacrificial agent ratio, this rate soared to an impressive 13565 μmol g−1 h−1, surpassing the most reported photo‐active COFs. In situ characterizations and simulations verified that three H2O2 evolution pathways (2e− ORR, 4e− OER, and 4e− ORR) all involved in the H2O2 production process. As a result, our findings introduce a novel pathway for the development of high‐performance COF‐based photocatalysts through the innovative application of artificial enzyme‐mimicking techniques.
Patterns in Plant Species Diversity and Composition of a Restored Nature‐Based Solutions Floodplain
Authors: Pastina S.  , Peeters E. T. H. M.  , Daumal M.  , Erkens R. H. J.  
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTFloodplains are simultaneously among the most ecologically important and most severely impacted ecosystems in the world, with hydro‐morphological alteration of riverine systems leading to declines in biodiversity. The loss of floodplain ecosystems worldwide increased interest in restoration projects throughout the world, centred around the concept of nature‐based solutions (NBS). Floodplain restoration is increasingly regarded as one of the most successful forms of NBS. However, stream restoration projects lack in‐depth monitoring practices, highlighting the need for evaluations of NBS restoration success on riparian vegetation. This study analysed patterns in plant species diversity and composition following restoration of the Bosscherveld floodplain, part of the Grensmaas Project, the largest nature‐based river restoration project in the Netherlands. A total of 173 species were recorded over 325 quadrats. For each plot, hydro‐geomorphological factors were analysed. Habitat type and water depth were key determinants of plant species distribution. Species richness significantly declined in relation to increasing hydrological stress, and vegetation was distributed according to species‐specific tolerances to disturbance. Spatial coordinates, habitat type, sediment type, water percentage and depth all significantly contributed to differences in vegetation composition. Spatial variables emerged as the most significant contributors to the explained variation. The study concludes that the Bosscherveld floodplain displays high habitat heterogeneity and a significant presence of wetland species, aligning with initial restoration objectives. These findings underline the importance of monitoring to enhance the effectiveness of river restoration projects, ensuring the continued success of NBS initiatives in floodplain ecosystems.
Development of an Environmental and Faecal DNA Tool for Monitoring the Spatial Distribution and Fish Predation on the Mountain Amphibian Calotriton asper
Authors: Deluen Marine , Loot Géraldine , Bertrand Romain , Aubret Fabien , Valentini Alice , Calvez Olivier , Delmas Claudine , Le Chevalier Hugo , Muratet Jean , Pottier Gilles , Ribéron Alexandre , Rollet Sylvain , Dubut Vincent , Trochet Audrey , Blanchet Simon 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTGathering ecological knowledge about species with cryptic behaviour can be challenging and strongly depends on human, financial and logistical resources. Yet, this is essential for the conservation of threatened and/or elusive species and wildlife management. The use of DNA tools is emerging as an efficient solution to overcome these constraints. Here, we developed specific primers and a droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) protocol for the quantitative detection of the endemic amphibian Calotriton asper in freshwater and fish faeces. After successful in silico validation of the developed primers, we tested their validity in the wild. First, using an environmental DNA approach, we confirmed the presence of C. asper in eight out of 13 sites deemed climatically suitable for the species, although it had never been observed there before. Then, we sampled brown trout (Salmo trutta) living in sympatry with C. asper and, through fish faeces analyses, confirmed that brown trout are predators of C. asper. These molecular tools proved efficient for monitoring (i) elusive species such as C. asper in the wild, allowing for better characterization of their current distribution and habitat use, and (ii) predation events by fish, which might be a significant pressure on low‐density and isolated C. asper populations. We provide a valuable, low‐cost and complementary tool for environmental managers and scientists that should help improve the development of fine‐tuned conservation and management plans for C. asper.
Antibacterial Lecithin/Chitosan Nanoparticles for the Sustained Release of Ciprofloxacin to Treat Ocular Bacterial Infections
Authors: Rasool Nahida , Thakur Yashika , Singh Yashveer 
Published: December 2024

AbstractOcular drug‐delivery is one of the most challenging areas owing to nature of ocular tissues. Various nanoformulations have been designed and investigated for drug‐delivery to achieve high drug bioavailability. The major focus of these preparations available in market is to utilize nanomaterial as drug‐carrier only, with less focus on developing functional‐nanomaterials, which is a key knowledge gap in the field. To address this, we developed a nanoparticulate system from bioactive‐polymers, having intrinsic antimicrobial and mucoadhesiveness, loaded with ciprofloxacin (cipro) to treat ocular bacterial infections. Cipro‐loaded lecithin/chitosan nanoparticles were prepared and characterized for their physiochemical properties. They exhibited good drug loading efficiency and showed sustained drug‐release for 72 h, with slow release for first 4 h followed by a burst release in phosphate buffered saline and simulated tear fluid. Cipro‐loaded nanoparticles were assessed for their antibacterial potential against Staphylococcus aureus (96 %) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (72 %) using optical density, disc‐diffusion method, live‐dead assay, and demonstrated promising antibacterial properties. The drug‐loaded nanoparticles showed good cytocompatibility (~90 %) towards murine fibroblasts and rabbit corneal cells. Being amphiphilic in nature, the nanoparticles exhibited mucoadhesiveness, hemocompatibility (<4 %) and, thus, proving to be a promising candidate for treating ocular infections. This approach ensures efficient drug delivery and synergic/additive therapeutic effects.
Harnessing RNA‐Protein Interactions for Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Goel Khushboo , Saraogi Ishu 
Published: December 2024

AbstractInteractions between RNAs and proteins play a crucial role in various diseases, including viral infections and cancer. Hence, understanding and inhibiting these interactions are important for the development of novel therapeutics. However, the identification of drugs targeting RNA‐protein interactions with high specificity and affinity is challenged by our limited molecular understanding of these interactions. Recent focus on structural and biochemical characterization, coupled with high‐throughput screening technologies and computational modeling, have accelerated the identification of new RBPs and optimization of potential inhibitors. This review discusses key examples of inhibitors developed over the past decade that effectively disrupt pathogenic RNA–protein interactions. We focus on small molecule and peptide‐based inhibitors that have shown promise in disrupting crucial RNA–protein interactions in eukaryotes, prokaryotes, and viruses. We also present the challenges and future directions in this field, emphasizing the need to achieve improved specificity and reduce the off‐target effects of the inhibitors. This review aims to contribute to ongoing efforts towards the development of novel therapeutic agents targeting RNA‐protein interactions by providing an in‐depth analysis of significant developments and emerging trends in this rapidly growing field.
Ferrocene‐Based Metal‐Organic Framework for Adsorption and Degradation of Antibiotics
Authors: Ma Shuohan , Di Xiaojiao , Wang Yi , Lu Yuchao , Pei Zhichao , Pei Yuxin 
Published: December 2024

AbstractAntibiotics have emerged as a significant class of organic pollutants, posing serious global challenges to both the environment and human health. To address the issue of water pollution by antibiotics, a ferrocene‐based organic framework (FcMOF) with paramagnetism has been synthesized by hydrothermal complexation of ferrocene dicarboxylic acid with copper chloride and utilized for quick and efficient adsorption and degradation of antibiotics. The maximum adsorption capacity of TC was 736.59 mg g−1 and the degradation rate reached 94.24 % under the optimal conditions (40 °C, pH = 3, 3.0 % H2O2). This provides a new solution with high treatment capacity for antibiotic pollution in water without secondary pollution.
Tunning the Wettability of the PVDF Membrane using the PVA‐Stabilized TA‐UiO‐66‐NH2 MOF Membranes to Separate Layered Oil‐Water Mixture and Surfactant‐Stabilized Emulsion
Authors: Fiaz Muhammad , Khan Sumayyah , Baig Nadeem , Sohail Manzar 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThis study introduces a UiO‐66‐NH2/Tannic acid/Polyvinylidene fluoride (UTP) composite membrane for efficient oil‐water separation. Pristine polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes, due to their hydrophobic nature, tend to foul during oil‐in‐water emulsion separation. By incorporating the metal‐organic framework (MOF) UiO‐66‐NH2 and stabilizing it with tannic acid (TA) and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), the membrane's hydrophilicity and antifouling properties were significantly enhanced. The water contact angle of the UTP membrane decreased from 121° to 3°, indicating a dramatic increase in hydrophilicity, while the underwater oil contact angle (UWOCA) of 119° demonstrated excellent oleophobicity. The modified membrane achieved over 99 % separation efficiency and improved flux by 15 times compared to the pristine PVDF. TA acted as a binder, ensuring uniform MOF dispersion and improving the composite's stability. The PVA further reinforced the structure, enhancing durability under operational conditions. Durability tests showed no significant MOF detachment after repeated use, confirming the stability of the UTP composite. The results highlight the potential of the UTP membrane for oil‐water separation with superior permeability and fouling resistance.
Artificial Solid‐Electrolyte Interphase with PVDF‐ZnF2 Double‐Layer Structures Enhancing Electrochemical Performance of Sodium Metal Batteries
Authors: Yu Kaichen , Chen Jinbiao , Xiao Zhifeng , Yang Yuqing , Fu Yanpeng , Alodhayb Abdullah N. , Li Jie , Li Chunsheng , Sun Yan , Shi Zhicong 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSodium metal batteries (SMBs) have attracted significant attention due to their high theoretical capacity and abundant resources. However, commercialization for this cell is challenged by the high reactivity of sodium metal, leading to detrimental side reactions with electrolytes, dendritic growth, and severe volume changes over charging/discharging cycles. These issues shorten the cycle life, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of internal short circuits and thermal runaway. A stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) is key to addressing these challenges by preventing dendrite growth, homogenizing sodium ion transport, and maintaining chemical stability. This study investigates an artificial SEI(ASEI) composed of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and ZnF2, which forms a durable organic‐inorganic double‐layer structure. The outer organic PVDF layer enhances mechanical strength, while the inner inorganic ZnF2 layer improves sodium ion flux, preventing dendritic growth. The ASEI significantly extends cell life and enhance electrochemical performances. The NVP||50 μL −4 wt.%+100 μL −8 wt.% PVDF‐ZnF2/Na cell demonstrates stable cycling for over 3000 cycles. This novel ASEI design offers promising potential for improving the energy storage properties and safety of sodium metal batteries.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Modified Risk Assessment Model of Venous Thromboembolism in Non‐Hodgkin Lymphoma Patients
Authors: Li Wen , Liu Rui , Shen Ying , Gao GongZhizi , Yang Rui , Wang Yiwen , Yang Ruoyu , Lin Zujie , Dong Ruijun , Zhao Wanhong , He Aili , Bai Ju 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundVenous thromboembolic events (VTEs) are the second‐leading cause of death in cancer patients, with an incidence of 5%–17% in lymphoma patients, particularly higher in those with non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Existing risk assessment models (RAMs) like the Khorana and ThroLy scores have limitations and are inadequately validated for NHL patients. Coagulation markers such as D‐dimer, thrombin–antithrombin complex (TAT), and thrombomodulin (TM) show a potential predictive value for cancer‐associated VTE but lack extensive research in NHL.ObjectivesThis study aimed to analyze characteristics and predictive risk factors for VTE in newly diagnosed NHL patients and to evaluate and improve the clinical applicability of the Khorana and ThroLy scores.MethodsData were collected from newly diagnosed NHL patients to analyze characteristics and potential predictive risk factors for VTE. The clinical applicability of the Khorana and ThroLy scores was evaluated, and the ThroLy score was improved by adjusting the hemoglobin cutoff and combining it with D‐dimer testing. Sequential testing with TM and TAT levels was also performed.ResultsVTE developed in 7.09% of NHL patients. Independent risk factors for VTE included clinical Stage III/IV, mediastinal involvement, history of VTE, D‐dimer≥ 1345 μg/dL, and platelet (PLT)≥ 298 × 109, and Hb≥ 110 g/L was an independent protective factor for VTE. The ThroLy score was improved by adjusting the hemoglobin cutoff and combining it with D‐dimer testing. Sequential testing of TM and TAT achieved a sensitivity of 66.7%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 100%, and negative predictive value (NPV) of 96.7%.ConclusionsVTE is a significant complication in NHL patients. The study highlighted independent risk factors and proposed a modified risk assessment model that effectively predicted VTE risk, potentially optimizing prevention and reducing healthcare costs.
Secondary Transfer Effect and Natives' Acculturation Behaviours: The Role of Natives' Perceived Moral Distance and Multicultural Ideology
Authors: Parisse Chiara , Livi Stefano , Vezzali Loris , Cocco Veronica Margherita , Kosic Ankica , Pagliaro Stefano 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThe increase in migration and cultural diversity across various Western regions has highlighted the need to promote harmonious coexistence between those who migrate from other countries and the native populations. Promoting social harmony is the primary objective in both acculturation and intergroup contact research. Particularly relevant to this aim is the secondary transfer effect (STE), consisting in the spreading of the effects of contact with a primary outgroup to attitudes towards secondary outgroups uninvolved in the contact setting. This study aims to explore the STE of positive contact with African migrants (as the primary outgroup) on the acculturation behaviours of natives, and specifically, how these behaviours affect natives' prointegration actions towards refugees (as the secondary outgroup). To achieve this objective, we also investigated two potential underlying processes: natives' perceived moral distance, linked to the STE and contact literature, and natives' multicultural ideology, associated with natives' acculturation preferences. We hypothesised that positive interactions of Italian adults (N = 280) with African migrants would be associated with natives' prorefugee behaviours through natives' perceived moral distance towards African migrants and their multicultural ideology. Logistic SEM analysis revealed indirect effects through the two hypothesised mediators, emphasising their role in driving natives' prorefugee behaviours.