bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Isl Identifies the Extraembryonic Mesodermal/Allantois Progenitors and is Required for Placenta Morphogenesis and Vasculature Formation
Authors: Zhu Zeyue , Zou Qicheng , Wang Chunxiao , Li Dixi , Yang Yan , Xiao Ying , Jin Yao , Yan Jie , Luo Lina , Sun Yunfu , Liang Xingqun 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe placenta links feto‐maternal circulation for exchanges of nutrients, gases, and metabolic wastes between the fetus and mother, being essential for pregnancy process and maintenance. The allantois and mesodermal components of amnion, chorion, and yolk sac are derived from extraembryonic mesoderm (Ex‐Mes), however, the mechanisms contributing to distinct components of the placenta and regulation the interactions between allantois and epithelium during chorioallantoic fusion and labyrinth formation remains unclear. Isl1 is expressed in progenitors of the Ex‐Mes and allantois the Isl1 mut mouse line is analyzed to investigate contribution of Isl1+ Ex‐Mes / allantoic progenitors to cells of the allantois and placenta. This study shows that Isl1 identifies the Ex‐Mes progenitors for endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, and most of the mesenchymal cells of the placenta and umbilical cord. Deletion of Isl1 causes defects in allantois growth, chorioallantoic fusion, and placenta vessel morphogenesis. RNA‐seq and CUT&Tag analyses revealed that Isl1 promotes allantoic endothelial, inhibits mesenchymal cell differentiation, and allantoic signals regulated by Isl1 mediating the inductive interactions between the allantois and chorion critical for chorionic epithelium differentiation, villous formation, and labyrinth angiogenesis. This study above reveals that Isl1 plays roles in regulating multiple genetic and epigenetic pathways of vascular morphogenesis, provides the insight into the mechanisms for placental formation, highlighting the necessity of Isl1 for placenta formation/pregnant maintenance.
A Cost‐Effective Hemin‐Based Artificial Enzyme Allows for Practical Applications
Authors: Qiu Dehui , He Fangni , Liu Yuan , Zhou Zhaoxi , Yang Yuqin , Long Zhongwen , Chen Qianqian , Chen Desheng , Wei Shijiong , Mao Xuanxiang , Zhang Xiaobo , Mergny Jean‐Louis , Monchaud David , Ju Huangxian , Zhou Jun 
Published: June 2024

AbstractNanomaterials excel in mimicking the structure and function of natural enzymes while being far more interesting in terms of structural stability, functional versatility, recyclability, and large‐scale preparation. Herein, the story assembles hemin, histidine analogs, and G‐quadruplex DNA in a catalytically competent supramolecular assembly referred to as assembly‐activated hemin enzyme (AA‐heminzyme). The catalytic properties of AA‐heminzyme are investigated both in silico (by molecular docking and quantum chemical calculations) and in vitro (notably through a systematic comparison with its natural counterpart horseradish peroxidase, HRP). It is found that this artificial system is not only as efficient as HRP to oxidize various substrates (with a turnover number kcat of 115 s−1) but also more practically convenient (displaying better thermal stability, recoverability, and editability) and more economically viable, with a catalytic cost amounting to <10% of that of HRP. The strategic interest of AA‐heminzyme is further demonstrated for both industrial wastewater remediation and biomarker detection (notably glutathione, for which the cost is decreased by 98% as compared to commercial kits).
Advancements in Ruthenium (Ru)‐Based Heterostructure Catalysts: Overcoming Bottlenecks in Catalysis for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kuang Yubin , Yang Fulin , Feng Ligang 
Published: June 2024

AbstractInvestigating clean and sustainable hydrogen generation from water splitting requires cost‐effective and highly efficient electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Ruthenium (Ru)‐based heterostructure catalysts have emerged as promising alternatives to precious Pt, offering significant potential to overcome current bottlenecks. Recent advancements in Ru‐based heterostructure catalysts have focused on achieving a balance between catalytic activity and stability. An overview of these developments provides insights into catalytic mechanisms and facilitates the development of novel catalysts. This review begins with an exploration of the enhanced activity of heterostructure catalysts, followed by a critical summary of synthetic strategies employed to fabricate these catalysts and their catalytic performances for HER. Attention is then directed to experimental endeavors aimed at enhancing the HER performance of Ru‐based heterostructure catalysts. Finally, the opportunities and challenges in developing heterostructure catalysts from the perspectives of material design and synthesis are discussed. Through these discussions, a comprehensive understanding of Ru‐based heterostructure catalysts and inspiring future research directions is the aim to provide.
Low‐pass whole genome sequencing as a cost‐effective alternative to chromosomal microarray analysis for low‐ and middle‐income countries
Authors: Mazzonetto Patricia C. , Villela Darine , Krepischi Ana C. V. , Pierry Paulo M. , Bonaldi Adriano , Almeida Luiz Gustavo D. , Paula Marcelo G. , Bürger Matheus Carvalho , de Oliveira Ana Gabriela , Fonseca Gustavo G. G. , Giugliani Roberto , Riegel‐Giugliani Mariluce , Bertola Débora , Yamamoto Guilherme Lopes , Passos‐Bueno Maria Rita , Campos Gabriele da Silva , Machado Ana Claudia Dantas , Mazzeu Juliana F. , Perrone Eduardo , Zechi‐Ceide Roseli M. , Kokitsu‐Nakata Nancy M. , Vieira Társis Paiva , Steiner Carlos Eduardo , Gil‐da‐Silva‐Lopes Vera Lúcia , Vieira Daniela Koeller Rodrigues , Boy Raquel , de Pina‐Neto João Monteiro , Scapulatempo‐Neto Cristovam , Milanezi Fernanda , Rosenberg Carla 
Published: June 2024

AbstractLow‐pass whole genome sequencing (LP‐WGS) has been applied as alternative method to detect copy number variants (CNVs) in the clinical setting. Compared with chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA), the sequencing‐based approach provides a similar resolution of CNV detection at a lower cost. In this study, we assessed the efficiency and reliability of LP‐WGS as a more affordable alternative to CMA. A total of 1363 patients with unexplained neurodevelopmental delay/intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, and/or multiple congenital anomalies were enrolled. Those patients were referred from 15 nonprofit organizations and university centers located in different states in Brazil. The analysis of LP‐WGS at 1x coverage (>50kb) revealed a positive testing result in 22% of the cases (304/1363), in which 219 and 85 correspond to pathogenic/likely pathogenic (P/LP) CNVs and variants of uncertain significance (VUS), respectively. The 16% (219/1363) diagnostic yield observed in our cohort is comparable to the 15%–20% reported for CMA in the literature. The use of commercial software, as demonstrated in this study, simplifies the implementation of the test in clinical settings. Particularly for countries like Brazil, where the cost of CMA presents a substantial barrier to most of the population, LP‐WGS emerges as a cost‐effective alternative for investigating copy number changes in cytogenetics.
Management change following transthoracic echocardiogram in the intensive care unit
Authors: Smith Jeremy A , Mistry Ravi 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIntroduction/PurposeThe optimal utilisation of echocardiography in intensive care units (ICU) is not yet known; however, its use is becoming more frequent. Management change from transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in ICU is quoted to be from 3% to 50%.MethodsA retrospective review of clinical practice was performed over a 2‐month period in a tertiary adult ICU, to explore the utilisation of formal TTEs and the findings of these. The rate of management change and critical findings were investigated, along with the indication for TTE and the patient cohort.ResultsSixty‐three TTEs were performed in 54 patients. A change in management occurred in 25.4% (16/63) of TTEs, with critical findings being found in 47.6% (30/63) of all TTEs. The most common indications for formal TTEs were incompletely differentiated or further evaluation of shock, and post arrest cardiac function.DiscussionAlmost half of the TTEs performed had critical findings, with common critical findings being severe LV dysfunction, severe RV dysfunction and regional wall motion abnormalities. Despite critical findings being seen frequently, there was only management change in 25%, suggesting that several of the critical findings were already suspected, clinically confirmed or had anticipatory management prior to TTE.ConclusionCritical findings are common in critically ill patients. However, not all critical findings will lead to a change in management. Formal TTEs in the ICU should be focussed to the clinical question being asked and a screening intensivist performed bedside TTE may be appropriate in certain situations to decrease workload of cardiology department.
An ethically guided preclinical device for phenotyping H2 production in laboratory rodents
Authors: Pascal‐Moussellard Victor , Boucher Emilie , Tanguy Stéphane , Cinquin Philippe , Barraud Pierre‐Alain , Davin Chloé , Salomez‐Ihl Cordélia , Hannani Dalil , Boucher François , Alcaraz Jean‐Pierre 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundDihydrogen (H2) is produced endogenously by the intestinal microbiota through the fermentation of diet carbohydrates. Over the past few years, numerous studies have demonstrated the significant therapeutic potential of H2 in various pathophysiological contexts, making the characterization of its production in laboratory species of major preclinical importance.MethodsThis study proposes an innovative solution to accurately monitor H2 production in free‐moving rodents while respecting animal welfare standards. The developed device consisted of a wire rodent cage placed inside an airtight chamber in which the air quality was maintained, and the H2 concentration was continuously analyzed. After the airtightness and efficiency of the systems used to control and maintain air quality in the chamber were checked, tests were carried out on rats and mice with different metabolic phenotypes, over 12 min to 1‐h experiments and repeatedly. H2 production rates (HPR) were obtained using an easy calculation algorithm based on a first‐order moving average.ResultsHPR in hyperphagic Zucker rats was found to be twice as high as in control Wistar rats, respectively, 2.64 and 1.27 nmol.s−1 per animal. In addition, the ingestion of inulin, a dietary fiber, stimulated H2 production in mice. HPRs were 0.46 nmol.s−1 for animals under control diet and 1.99 nmol.s−1 for animals under inulin diet.ConclusionsThe proposed device coupled with our algorithm enables fine analysis of the metabolic phenotype of laboratory rats or mice with regard to their endogenous H2 production.
Preliminary study of metabonomic changes during the progression of atherosclerosis in miniature pigs
Authors: Jia Yunxiao , Zhao Yuqiong , Niu Miaomiao , Zhao Changqi , Li Xuezhuang , Chen Hua 
Published: June 2024

AbstractBackgroundTo explore potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of atherosclerosis (AS) and provide basic data for further research on AS, the characteristics of serum metabolomics during the progression of AS in mini‐pigs were observed dynamically.MethodsAn AS model in Bama miniature pigs was established by a high‐cholesterol and high‐fat diet. Fasting serum samples were collected monthly for metabolomics and serum lipid detection. At the end of the treatment period, pathological analysis of the abdominal aorta and coronary artery was performed to evaluate the lesions of AS, thereby distinguishing the susceptibility of mini‐pigs to AS. The metabolomics was detected using a high‐resolution untargeted metabolomic approach. Statistical analysis was used to identify metabolites associated with AS susceptibility.ResultsBased on pathological analysis, mini‐pigs were divided into two groups: a susceptible group (n = 3) and a non‐susceptible group (n = 6). A total of 1318 metabolites were identified, with significant shifting of metabolic profiles over time in both groups. Dynamic monitoring analysis highlighted 57 metabolites that exhibited an obvious trend of differential changes between two groups with the advance of time. The KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment analysis indicated significant disorders in cholesterol metabolism, primary bile acid metabolism, histidine metabolism, as well as taurine and hypotaurine metabolism.ConclusionsDuring the progression of AS in mini‐pigs induced by high‐cholesterol/high‐fat diet, the alterations in serum metabolic profile exhibited a time‐dependent pattern, accompanied by notable disturbances in lipid metabolism, cholesterol metabolism, and amino acid metabolism. These metabolites may become potential biomarkers for early diagnosis of AS.
Effect of lubricant functional groups on tribological properties of epoxy/graphene composites
Authors: Zheng Wenxuan , Zhang Guoliang , Qi Jian , Lu Shichao , Li Yang 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe functional group in the molecular chain of lubricants is a key factor for a boundary lubricating film, which can further enhance the friction performance by interfacial tribochemistry. In this paper, the tribological behavior of epoxy/graphene (EP/Gra) composites was investigated through varying lubrication conditions, including dry friction, or different lubricants (such as water, hexadecane, oleylamine, and oleic acid). The porosity and Shore hardness (SHD) of the EP composites were significantly improved by the addition of graphene. Results showed that the porosity of the EP/0.75 wt.% Gra composites was reduced by 75.6% and their SHD increased by 5.4 compared with the EP/0.05 wt.% Gra composites. The average coefficient of friction (COF) of the composites was reduced by at least 27.3% under dry friction conditions. For water as lubricant, the EP/0.5 wt.% Gra composite exhibited the lowest COF (0.0455). The EP/0.75 wt.% Gra composite displayed the lowest COF (0.0466) when hexadecane acted as lubricant. By contrast, EP/0.05 wt.% Gra showed the lowest COF (0.0389) with oleylamine as lubricant, and the EP/0.25 wt.% Gra composites gave the lowest COF (0.0433) under oleic acid. The amine group of oleylamine reacted with the EP group to form a hydroxyl group, resulting in a polymer with low friction adhered to the friction interface. Simultaneously, the EP group reacted with the carboxyl group, forming a network of hydrogen bonds with graphene, which reduced the shear stress on the friction interface. Therefore, the functional groups of lubricants have a vital influence on the tribological properties of frictional composites, which may provide a new approach to solving the problem of wear.
Synthesis of polyesters derived from glycerol and phthalic anhydride and its application for bitumen modification
Authors: Joshi Vedant , Kumar Kamal , Nandu Krishna K. , Senthilkumar Thangaraj 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study introduces phthalic anhydride (P) and glycerol (G)‐based polyester as an additive for upgrading lower‐grade bitumen to higher‐grade bitumen. The different colorless polyesters were synthesized using polycondensation of P and G as a monomer in the ratio of 1:1 and polymerization time of 1, 3, 5, and 7 h. A rheological analysis was performed on all the synthesized polyesters to check their performance with respect to their use in bitumen modification. The polyesters were blended with base bitumens (VG10) to obtain the modified bitumens that were tested for the rheological and physicochemical properties and to assess the performance based on the grade quality test. The quality test of the modified bitumens includes softening point (SP), penetration (PEN), kinematic viscosity (KV), dynamic viscosity (DV), and rheological properties as per standard ASTM test methods. Based on the performance evaluation, P1G1H3 polyester was found suitable for blending with bitumen, and further study was carried out with blending of P1G1H3 with 3, 6, 10, and 15 wt%. The finding illustrates that 6.0 wt% of polyester‐modified bitumen show an enhanced SP, KV, and DV by 23.6, 86, and 30%, respectively, while decreasing the PEN by 49% with respect to VG10. Polyester blending also improved the rheological parameters in terms of deformation resistance, load‐bearing capacity, and the viscoelastic nature of bitumen. The investigation concluded that 6 wt% P1G1H3 polyester on blending in VG10 meets VG30 bitumen specification as per IS:73:2013.
Engineering Nanobelt Structure via Sulphur and Oxygen Doping: Synthesis, Structural Characterization, and Complexation with Fullerenes
Authors: Liu Yandie , Wang Shenghua , Xie Jialin , Du Zhenglin , Chen Qing , Li Xia , Zhu Kelong 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis study explores the synthesis, structural characterization, and host‐guest interactions of heteroatom bridged nanobelts, focusing on a cyclothianthrene nanobelt and a fused nanobelt incorporating thianthrene and phenoxathiin. Utilizing a cyclization‐followed‐by‐bridging synthetic approach, both molecular belts were successfully synthesized, and their structures confirmed through NMR and MALDI‐TOF‐MS analysis. Crystallographic studies revealed that the cyclothianthrene nanobelt adopts an octagonal column‐like conformation, while the hybrid belt forms an oval tub‐shaped shape, both exhibiting distinct assembly motifs. The host‐guest chemistry of these nanobelts was investigated with fullerenes (C60, C70, and PC61BM). The cyclothianthrene belt showed no interaction with these fullerenes, whereas the other belt demonstrated adaptive binding capabilities, forming stable complexes with C60 and C70 through π–π interactions and C−H⋅⋅⋅S hydrogen bonds. The binding constants indicated that the hybrid belt has a stronger affinity for C70 due to better size complementarity. Additionally, its interaction with PC61BM showcased a specific 1 : 1 binding mode despite exhibiting a smaller binding constant. This study underscores the impact of heteroatom incorporation on the structural and functional properties of nanobelts, offering insights for future molecular design strategies.
Probabilistischer Nachweis einer Spannbetonbrücke – Teil 2
Authors: Özlü Caner , Küttenbaum Stefan , Kainz Christian , Braml Thomas , Taffe Alexander 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIm zweiten Teil dieses Beitrags werden die Grenzzustandsfunktionen für die Nachweise im Grenzzustand der Tragfähigkeit für Biegung mit Normalkraft, Querkraft mit Querkraftbewehrung und Torsion vorgestellt. Die Eingangsgrößen der mechanischen Widerstandsmodelle werden durch zahlreiche Abbildungen illustriert. Auf Grundlage der probabilistischen Modelle aus dem ersten Teil dieses Aufsatzes und der mechanischen Modelle aus diesem zweiten Teil werden die probabilistischen Nachweise geführt. Die Ergebnisse aus der Zuverlässigkeitsanalyse werden mit den semiprobabilistischen Berechnungsergebnissen verglichen. Mittels Parameterstudien wird gezeigt, welche Eingangsgrößen im Standsicherheitsnachweis die größten Einflüsse auf die Bauwerkszuverlässigkeit haben. Die Messung dieser Parameter ist entsprechend besonders nützlich. Auf dieser Basis wird abschließend gezeigt, welche Chancen sich aus der Durchführung von zerstörungsfreien Bauwerksprüfungen für die Nachrechnung ergeben.
Balancing act: BRCA2's elaborate management of telomere replication through control of G‐quadruplex dynamicity
Authors: Joo So Young , Sung Keewon , Lee Hyunsook 
Published: June 2024

AbstractIn billion years of evolution, eukaryotes preserved the chromosome ends with arrays of guanine repeats surrounded by thymines and adenines, which can form stacks of four‐stranded planar structure known as G‐quadruplex (G4). The rationale behind the evolutionary conservation of the G4 structure at the telomere remained elusive. Our recent study has shed light on this matter by revealing that telomere G4 undergoes oscillation between at least two distinct folded conformations. Additionally, tumor suppressor BRCA2 exhibits a unique mode of interaction with telomere G4. To elaborate, BRCA2 directly interacts with G‐triplex (G3)‐derived intermediates that form during the interconversion of the two different G4 states. In doing so, BRCA2 remodels the G4, facilitating the restart of stalled replication forks. In this review, we succinctly summarize the findings regarding the dynamicity of telomeric G4, emphasize its importance in maintaining telomere replication homeostasis, and the physiological consequences of losing G4 dynamicity at the telomere.
iPS cell therapy 2.0: Preparing for next‐generation regenerative medicine
Authors: Hui Kelvin K. , Yamanaka Shinya 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis year marks the tenth anniversary of the world's first transplantation of tissue generated from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). There is now a growing number of clinical trials worldwide examining the efficacy and safety of autologous and allogeneic iPSC‐derived products for treating various pathologic conditions. As we patiently wait for the results from these and future clinical trials, it is imperative to strategize for the next generation of iPSC‐based therapies. This review examines the lessons learned from the development of another advanced cell therapy, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells, and the possibility of incorporating various new bioengineering technologies in development, from RNA engineering to tissue fabrication, to apply iPSCs not only as a means to achieve personalized medicine but also as designer medical applications.
Feasible and economic DIY procedures of a hand‐held fluorescence detector set—FluorDetector to assist laboratory course development
Authors: Ding Bo , Wang Ju , Mao Yaxin , Meng Tian , Luo Yumei , Xu Xiaomei , Lv Zhanqing , Zhou Mian , Yang Qiuying 
Published: June 2024

AbstractFluorescence‐related experimental techniques play an important role in biochemistry, molecular biology, and cell biology. However, fluorescence‐related experiments are rarely included in the laboratory courses of most Chinese universities. This is mainly due to the conflict between large class size (50–60 students in one room) and funding/space limitations to purchase and accommodate enough fluorescence detection equipment. Here, we proposed feasible and economical Do It Yourself (DIY) procedures of a hand‐held fluorescence detector set—FluorDetector to support the development of laboratory courses. Tested on several samples, clear fluorescence signals could be directly observed by FluorDetector and photographed with a smartphone. In addition, FluorDetector was able to turn a conventional stereomicroscope into a fluorescence stereomicroscope, detecting fluorescence signals with clean background. FluorDetector is easy to make with a 3D printer, with an extremely low cost ($200 each) when compared with a commercial fluorescence microscope or fluorescence stereomicroscope, and almost as sensitive as a microplate reader in measuring fluorescence. Therefore, FluorDetector is a possible strategy to solve the problem and help to integrate fluorescence‐related experimental modules in laboratory courses.