bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Construction and Characterization of aPseudomonas aeruginosaMucoid Exopolysaccharide-Alginate Conjugate Vaccine
Authors: Theilacker Christian , Coleman Fadie T. , Mueschenborn Simone , Llosa Nicolas , Grout Martha , Pier Gerald B. 
Published: June 2003

ABSTRACTDeterioration of lung function in patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) is closely associated with chronic pulmonary infection with mucoidPseudomonas aeruginosa. The mucoid exopolysaccharide (MEP) fromP. aeruginosahas been shown to induce opsonic antibodies in mice that are protective against this chronic infection. MEP-specific opsonic antibodies are also commonly found in the sera of older CF patients lacking detectableP. aeruginosainfection. When used in a human vaccine trial, however, MEP only minimally induced opsonic antibodies. To evaluate whether conjugation of MEP to a carrier protein could improve its immunogenicity, we bound thiolated MEP to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) by using succinimidyl-4-(N-maleimidomethyl)cyclohexane-1-carboxylate (SMCC) as a linker. In contrast to the native MEP polymer, the MEP-KLH conjugate vaccine induced high titers of MEP-specific immunoglobulin G (IgG) in C3H-HeN mice and in a rabbit. Sera from mice immunized with MEP-KLH conjugate, but not from animals immunized with comparable doses of native MEP, demonstrated opsonic killing activity. Vaccination with MEP-KLH conjugate induced opsonic antibodies broadly cross-reactive to heterologous mucoid strains ofP. aeruginosa. Preexisting nonopsonic antibodies to MEP are found in normal human sera, including young CF patients, and their presence impedes the induction of opsonic antibodies. Induction of nonopsonic antibodies by either intraperitoneal injection of MEP or injection or feeding of the cross-reactive antigen, seaweed alginate, reduced the level of overall IgG elicited by follow-up immunization with the MEP-KLH conjugate. However, the opsonic activity was lower only in the sera of MEP-KLH conjugate-immunized mice with preexisting antibodies induced by MEP but not with antibodies induced by seaweed alginate. Immunization with MEP-KLH elicited a significant proportion of antibodies specific to epitopes involving O-acetate residues, and this subpopulation of antibodies mediated opsonic killing of mucoidP. aeruginosain vitro. These results indicate that conjugation of MEP to KLH significantly enhances its immunogenicity and the elicitation of opsonic antibodies in mice and rabbits, that the conjugate induces opsonic antibodies in the presence of preexisting nonopsonic antibodies, and that opsonic antibodies to MEP are directed at epitopes that include acetate residues on the uronic acid polymer.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
ExoU, a Toxin Transported by the Type III Secretion System, Kills
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Rabin Shira D. P. , Hauser Alan R. 
Published: June 2003

ABSTRACT

ExoU, a protein transported by the type III secretion system of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, is an important cytotoxin, though its mechanism of action is unclear. Here we show that the intracellular expression of ExoU is cytotoxic to
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
. Furthermore, internal amino- and carboxyl-terminal deletions confirmed that regions of ExoU previously shown to be essential for killing mammalian cells were also required for killing yeast cells. These findings indicate that
S. cerevisiae
is a useful model organism for the study of ExoU.
Ursodeoxycholic Acid‐Decorated Zwitterionic Nanoparticles for Orally Liver‐Targeted Close‐Looped Insulin Delivery
Authors: Ma Yuhong , Wang Wei , Li Caihua , Han Fuwei , He Mujiao , Zhong Yinan , Huang Dechun , Chen Wei , Qian Hongliang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOral insulin therapies targeting the liver and further simulating close‐looped secretion face significant challenges due to multiple trans‐epithelial barriers. Herein, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA)‐decorated zwitterionic nanoparticles (NPs) (UC‐CMs@ins) are designed to overcome these barriers, target the liver, and respond to glycemia, thereby achieving oral one‐time‐per‐day therapy. UC‐CMs@ins show excellent mucus permeability through the introduction of zwitterion (carboxy betaine, CB). Furthermore, UC‐CMs@ins possess superior cellular internalization via proton‐assisted amino acid transporter 1 (PAT1, CB‐receptor) and apical sodium‐dependent bile acid transporter (ASBT, UDCA‐receptor) pathways. Moreover, UC‐CMs@ins exhibit excellent endolysosomal escape ability and improve the basolateral release of insulin into the bloodstream via the ileal bile acid‐binding protein and the heteromeric organic solute transporter (OSTα‐ OSTβ) routes compared with non‐UDCA‐decorated C‐CMs@ins. Therefore, CB and UDCA jointly overcome mucus and intestinal barriers. Additionally, UC‐CMs@ins prevent insulin degradation in the gastrointestinal tract for crosslinked structure, improve insulin accumulation in the liver for UDCA introduction, and effectively regulate glycemia for “closed‐loop” glucose control. Surprisingly, oral ingestion of UC‐CMs@ins shows a superior effect on glycemia (≈22 h, normoglycemia) and improves postprandial glycemic levels in diabetic mice, illustrating the enormous potential of the prepared NPs as a platform for oral insulin administration in diabetes treatment.
Material‐Intrinsic NIR‐Fluorescence Enables Image‐Guided Surgery for Ceramic Fracture Removal
Authors: Nißler Robert , Totter Elena , Walter Sebastian G. , Metternich Justus T. , Cipolato Oscar , Nowack Dimitri , Gogos Alexander , Herrmann Inge K. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractHip arthroplasty effectively treats advanced osteoarthritis and is therefore entitled as “operation of the 20th century.” With demographic shifts, the USA alone is projected to perform up to 850 000 arthroplasties annually by 2030. Many implants now feature a ceramic head, valued for strength and wear resistance. Nonetheless, a fraction, up to 0.03% may fracture during their lifespan, demanding complex removal procedures. To address this, a radiation‐free, fluorescence‐based image‐guided surgical technique is presented. The method uses the inherent fluorescence of ceramic implant materials, demonstrated through chemical and optical analysis of prevalent implant types. Specifically, Biolox delta implants exhibited strong fluorescence around 700 nm with a 74% photoluminescence quantum yield. Emission tails are identified extending into the near‐infrared (NIR‐I) biological transparency range, forming a vital prerequisite for the label‐free visualization of fragments. This ruby‐like fluorescence could be attributed to Cr within the zirconia‐toughened alumina matrix, enabling the detection of even deep‐seated millimeter‐sized fragments via camera‐assisted techniques. Additionally, fluorescence microscopy allowed detection of µm‐sized ceramic particles, enabling debris visualization in synovial fluid as well as histological samples. This label‐free optical imaging approach employs readily accessible equipment and can seamlessly transition to clinical settings without significant regulatory barriers, thereby enhancing the safety, efficiency, and minimally invasive nature of fractured ceramic implant removal procedures.
One‐Step Synthesis of Hydrogel Adhesive with Acid‐Responsive Tannin Release for Diabetic Oral Mucosa Defects Healing
Authors: Su Kaize , Li Jinxuan , Wu Xiaoxian , Deng Duanyu , Gu Han , Sun Ying , Wang Xu , Huang Wenhuan , Wang Yan , Shang Xiangcun , Xue Cuiyu , Liang Lihua , Li Xiaofang , Li Dongli , Ang Song , Zhang Kun , Wu Panpan , Wu Keke 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe complex preparation, weak wet tissue adhesion, and limited biological activity of traditional oral wound dressings usually impede their efficient treatment and healing for diabetic oral mucosal defects. To overcome these problems, a novel hydrogel adhesive (named CFT hydrogel) is rapidly constructed using a one‐step method based on dual‐dynamic covalent cross‐linking. Compared with the commercial oral patches, the CFT hydrogel shows superior in vivo (rat tongue) wet tissue adhesion performance. Additionally, the CFT hydrogel exhibits unique acid‐responsive properties, thereby facilitating the release of bioactive molecule tannic acid in the acidic diabetic wound microenvironment. And a series of in vitro experiments substantiate the favorable biocompatibility and bioactivity properties (including antibacterial, antioxidative, anti‐inflammatory, and angiogenetic effects) exhibited by CFT hydrogel. Moreover, in vivo experiments conducted on a diabetic rat model with oral mucosal defects demonstrate that the CFT hydrogel exhibits significant efficacy in protecting against mucosal wounds, alleviating inflammatory reactions, thereby facilitating the wound‐healing process. Taken together, this study provides a promising and comprehensive therapeutic option with great potential for the clinical management of oral mucosa defects in diabetic patients.
Glutathione Depletion‐Induced Versatile Nanomedicine for Potentiating the Ferroptosis to Overcome Solid Tumor Radioresistance and Enhance Immunotherapy
Authors: Song Huijuan , Sun Hao , He Ningning , Xu Chang , Du Liqing , Ji Kaihua , Wang Jinhan , Zhang Manman , Gu Yeqing , Wang Yan , Liu Qiang 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA high level of reduced glutathione is a major factor contributing to the radioresistance observed in solid tumors. To address this radioresistance associated with glutathione, a cinnamaldehyde (CA) polymer prodrug, referred to as PDPCA, is fabricated. This prodrug is created by synthesizing a pendent CA prodrug with acetal linkages in a hydrophobic block, forming a self‐assembled into a core–shell nanoparticle in aqueous media. Additionally, it encapsulates all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) for synchronous delivery, resulting in PDPCA@ATRA. The PDPCA@ATRA nanoparticles accumulate reactive oxygen species through both endogenous and exogenous pathways, enhancing ferroptosis by depleting glutathione. This approach demonstrates efficacy in overcoming tumor radioresistance in vivo and in vitro, promoting the ferroptosis, and enhancing the cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response for lung tumors to anti‐PD‐1 (αPD‐1) immunotherapy. Furthermore, this study reveals that PDPCA@ATRA nanoparticles promote ferroptosis through the NRF2‐GPX4 signaling pathway, suggesting the potential for further investigation into the combination of radiotherapy and αPD‐1 immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment.
Tunable 2D Electron‐ and 2D Hole States Observed at Fe/SrTiO3 Interfaces
Authors: Düring Pia M. , Rosenberger Paul , Baumgarten Lutz , Alarab Fatima , Lechermann Frank , Strocov Vladimir N. , Müller Martina 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOxide electronics provide the key concepts and materials for enhancing silicon‐based semiconductor technologies with novel functionalities. However, a basic but key property of semiconductor devices still needs to be unveiled in its oxidic counterparts: the ability to set or even switch between two types of carriers—either negatively (n) charged electrons or positively (p) charged holes. Here, direct evidence for individually emerging n‐ or p‐type 2D band dispersions in STO‐based heterostructures is provided using resonant photoelectron spectroscopy. The key to tuning the carrier character is the oxidation state of an adjacent Fe‐based interface layer: For Fe and FeO, hole bands emerge in the empty bandgap region of STO due to hybridization of Ti‐ and Fe‐ derived states across the interface, while for Fe3O4 overlayers, an 2D electron system is formed. Unexpected oxygen vacancy characteristics arise for the hole‐type interfaces, which as of yet had been exclusively assigned to the emergence of 2DESs. In general, this finding opens up the possibility to straightforwardly switch the type of conductivity at STO interfaces by the oxidation state of a redox overlayer. This will extend the spectrum of phenomena in oxide electronics, including the realization of combined n/p‐type all‐oxide transistors or logic gates.
Functionality Modulation Toward Thianthrene‐based Metal‐Free Electrocatalysts for Water Splitting
Authors: Sadhukhan Arnab , Karmakar Arun , Koner Kalipada , Karak Shayan , Sharma Rahul Kumar , Roy Avishek , Sen Prince , Dey Krishna Kishor , Mahalingam Venkataramanan , Pathak Biswarup , Kundu Subrata , Banerjee Rahul 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe development of metal‐free bifunctional electrocatalysts for hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions (HER and OER) is significant but rarely demonstrated. Porous organic polymers (POPs) with well‐defined electroactive functionalities show superior performance in hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Precise control of the active sites' local environment requires careful modulation of linkers through the judicious selection of building units. Here, a systematic strategy is introduced for modulating functionality to design and synthesize a series of thianthrene‐based bifunctional sp2 C═C bonded POPs with hollow spherical morphologies exhibiting superior electrocatalytic activity. This precise structural tuning allowed to gain insight into the effects of heteroatom incorporation, hydrophilicity, and variations in linker length on electrocatalytic activity. The most efficient bifunctional electrocatalyst THT‐PyDAN achieves a current density of 10 mA cm─2 at an overpotential (η10) of ≈65 mV (in 0.5 m H2SO4) and ≈283 mV (in 1 m KOH) for HER and OER, respectively. THT‐PyDAN exhibits superior activity to all previously reported metal‐free bifunctional electrocatalysts in the literature. Furthermore, these investigations demonstrate that THT‐PyDAN maintains its performance even after 36 h of chronoamperometry and 1000 CV cycling. Post‐catalytic characterization using FT‐IR, XPS, and microscopic imaging techniques underscores the long‐term durability of THT‐PyDAN.
Hot‐Carrier Cooling Regulation for Mixed Sn‐Pb Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yan Wenjian , Li Chongwen , Peng Cheng , Tan Shuchen , Zhang Jiakang , Jiang Haokun , Xin Feifei , Yue Fang , Zhou Zhongmin 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe rapid relaxation of hot carriers leads to energy loss in the form of heat and consequently restricts the theoretical efficiency of single‐junction solar cells; However, this issue has not received much attention in tin‐lead perovskites solar cells. Herein, tin(II) oxalate (SnC2O4) is introduced into tin‐lead perovskite precursor solution to regulate hot‐carrier cooling dynamics. The addition of SnC2O4 increases the length of carrier diffusion, extends the lifetime of carriers, and simultaneously slows down the cooling rate of carriers. Furthermore, SnC2O4 can bond with uncoordinated Sn2+ and Pb2+ ions to regulate the crystallization of perovskite and enable large grains. The strongly reducing properties of the C2O42− can inhibit the oxidation of Sn2+ to Sn4+ and minimize the formation of Sn vacancies in the resulting perovskite films. Additionally, as a substitute for tin(II) fluoride, the introduction of SnC2O4 avoids the carrier transport issues caused by the aggregation of F– ions at the interface. As a result, the SnC2O4‐treated Sn‐Pb cells show a champion efficiency of 23.36%, as well as 27.56% for the all‐perovskite tandem solar cells. Moreover, the SnC2O4‐treated devices show excellent long‐term stability. This finding is expected to pave the way toward stable and highly efficient all‐perovskite tandem solar cells.
Nano‐Mediated PDT as a Multifunctional Immunomodulatory Agent in the Intricate Milieu of Melanoma
Authors: Sebak Aya A. , Abdel‐Halim Mohammad , Abdelrahman Mostafa , Mohamed Gehad , El‐Tayeb Tarek , Gomaa Iman 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and nutrient competition represent the main causes of therapy resistance in cancers, including malignant melanoma (MM). Photodynamic therapy (PDT), through a cascade of events including its ability to induce significant immune responses, causes tumor eradication. However, the high pigmentation level of melanoma, lack of adequate accumulation of photosensitizers (PSs) in the target tissue as well as their nonspecific toxicity represent three main obstacles to obtaining satisfactory responses in melanoma. To prevail over these challenges, this study employs a depigmentation strategy followed by a nano‐mediated topical application of PDT using a chlorophyllin derivative as PS, focusing on the evaluation of the immunomodulatory and metabolic regulatory axes of PDT in melanoma. Photo‐immunomodulation is assessed in a melanoma mouse model using a nanocarrier system of the PS. Markers of the immunosuppressive microenvironment and T cell exhaustion, as independent immune hallmarks, are quantified. The histopathology of the spleen and skin/tumor is evaluated. The amino acid profile is quantified from normal skin or tumor biopsies using UHPLC‐MS/MS. Around 80% of the 300 nm transethosomal ferrous chlorophyllin (fC‐TEs) are retained in the tumor over 24 h upon topical application. Arbutin 2% gel not only decreased the melanin content of tumors but also regulated the expression of interleukin 12 (IL‐12), IL‐10, transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α). Additionally, the nano‐mediated PDT strategy decreased the expression of programmed cell death protein 1 (PD‐1) and its ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and reduces the activity of arginase 1 (Arg1) through an upregulation of miRNA155. A mild recruitment of megakaryocytes (MKs) is observed in the spleen of the PDT group. This special localization of MKs depicts effector immune properties. Lastly, the combination of PDT and arbutin restores the normal tissue levels of arginine (Arg), and glutamine (Gln) and lavished those of tryptophan (Trp). Nano‐mediated PDT represents a novel immunotherapeutic approach in melanoma by a triple modulation of the immune suppressive TME, immune checkpoint signaling, and reprogrammed tumor metabolism.
Climate change disclosure and evolving institutional investor salience: Roles of the Principles for Responsible Investment
Authors: Azuma Kentaro , Higashida Akira 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThis study investigates the relationship between climate change disclosure and institutional investors. A particular focus of the present study is the question of if and how the relationship is affected by the Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI). A relevant context to the question is shareholder engagement, where institutional investors' legitimacy affects the outcomes. Thus, this study examines Japan, where shareholder engagement is the main pathway for institutional investors to convey their ESG‐related influence to investee companies. Using the stakeholder salience theory as a theoretical framework, the empirical results of analyzing 17,604 firm‐year eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) documents of listed Japanese companies provide evidence for the following. First, institutional stakeholders' holding ratio has positively influenced corporate climate change disclosure (power). Second, the positive influence of institutional investors is more significant when PRI‐signed institutional investors are present (legitimacy). Third, the aforementioned relations gained statistical significance gradually during the analysis period (urgency). Fundamentally, this study shows that the stakeholder salience theory contributes to a deeper understanding of the relationship.
A systematic review of literature on homicide followed by suicide and mental state of perpetrators
Authors: Theodorou Alexis , Sinclair Helen , Ali Saima , Sukhwal Seema , Bassett Christopher , Hales Heidi 
Published: January 2024

AbstractBackgroundHomicide followed by suicide is rare, devastating and perpetrated worldwide. It is commonly assumed that the perpetrator had a mental disorder, raising concomitant questions about prevention. Though events have been reported, there has been no previous systematic review of the mental health of perpetrators.AimsOur aims were twofold. First, to identify whether there are recognisable subgroups of homicide–suicides in published literature and, secondly, to investigate the relationship between perpetrator mental state and aspects of the incident.MethodsWe conducted a systematic review of published literature on studies of homicide followed within 24 h by suicide or serious suicide attempt that included measures of perpetrator mental state.ResultsSixty studies were identified, most from North America or Europe. Methodologically, studies were too heterogeneous for meta‐analysis. They fell into three main groups: family, mass shooter, and terrorist with an additional small mixed group. There was evidence of mental illness in a minority of perpetrators; its absence in the remainder was only partially evidenced. There was no clear association between any specific mental illness and homicide–suicide type, although depression was most cited. Social role disjunction, motive, substance misuse and relevant risk or threat behaviours were themes identified across all groups. Pre‐established ideology was relevant in the mass shooter and terrorism groups. Prior trauma history was notable in the terrorist group.ConclusionResearch data were necessarily collected post‐incident and in most cases without a standardised approach, so findings must be interpreted cautiously. Nevertheless, they suggest at least some preventive role for mental health professionals. Those presenting to services with depression, suicidal ideation, relationship difficulties and actual, or perceived, changes in social position or role would merit detailed, supportive assessment over time.
Two Birds with One Stone: Polymerized Thermally Activated Delayed Fluorescence Small Molecules
Authors: Su Ning , Chen Bitian , Ding Junqiao 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) polymers show a great potential in low‐cost, large‐area and flexible full‐color flat‐panel displays. One of the most promising design rules is based on TADF+Linker, where a small molecular TADF unit is bonded to each other by a simple linker. Unlike the expensive vacuum deposition for small molecules, these polymerized TADF small molecules (Poly‐TADF‐SMs) are capable of cost‐effective solution processing. Meanwhile, the good luminescent property of small molecular TADF emitters can be well inherited by Poly‐TADF‐SMs so as to bridge the efficiency gap between small molecules and polymers. Herein, we will highlight the recent progress of Poly‐TADF‐SMs, together with emphasis on their molecular design, photophysical and electroluminescence properties.
Error‐based grid adaptation methods for plasma edge simulations with SOLPS‐ITER
Authors: Vervloesem Nathan , Dekeyser Wouter , van den Kerkhof Sander , Baelmans Martine 
Published: January 2024

AbstractOnly recently, plasma edge simulations up to the wall have been enabled with SOLPS‐ITER. This requires dedicated gridding techniques to reconcile grid alignment with the magnetic field and refinement toward the wall as grid quality is primordial to ensure fast and reliable convergence. Therefore, the gridding approach for the grids up to the wall is analyzed and improved. A truncation error analysis is performed on the discrete operators of the discretization scheme in SOLPS‐ITER, resulting in indicators of grid properties that are undesired. Based on these indicators, grid adaptation and grid smoothing algorithms are developed to reduce truncation errors and improve the overall grid quality. The resulting methods are applied on an AUG single‐null case. Here, the impact of the new gridding strategy is examined on the divertor heat load, a typical quantity of interest for plasma edge simulations. The new gridding methods allow to mitigate spurious numerical spikes in the target heat load profiles, reduce the convergence time with a factor 30, and improve the accuracy of the heat load with a factor 3 compared to original grids with similar total number of cells.