bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated polymer for fast storage of anions
Authors: Fu Manli , Chen Yuan , Jin Weihao , Dai Huichao , Zhang Guoqun , Fan Kun , Gao Yanbo , Guan Linnan , Chen Jizhou , Zhang Chenyang , Ma Jing , Wang Chengliang 
Published: December 2023

AbstractOrganic electrode materials have attracted a lot interest in batteries in recent years. However, most of them still suffer from low performance such as low electrode potential, slow reaction kinetics, and short cycle life. In this work, we report a strategy of fabricating donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated polymers for facilitating the charge transfer and therefore accelerating the reaction kinetics by using the copolymer (p‐TTPZ) of dihydrophenazine (PZ) and thianthrene (TT) as a proof‐of‐concept. The D–A conjugated polymer as p‐type cathode could store anions and exhibited high discharge voltages (two plateaus at 3.82 V, 3.16 V respectively), a reversible capacity of 152 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, excellent rate performance with a high capacity of 124.2 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1 (≈50 C) and remarkable cyclability. The performance, especially the rate capability was much higher than that of its counterpart homopolymers without D–A structure. As a result, the p‐TTPZ//graphite full cells showed a high output voltage (3.26 V), a discharge specific capacity of 139.1 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 and excellent rate performance. This work provides a novel strategy for developing high performance organic electrode materials through molecular design and will pave a way towards high energy density organic batteries.
Effects of ionic liquids as catalysts on liquid crystal aromatic polyester based on thin‐film polymerization technique
Authors: Wu Zexi , Shi Caijie , Peng Tao , Cheng Qiannan , Tang Qingquan , Wang Luoxin , Wang Hua , Xiong Siwei 
Published: December 2023

AbstractLiquid crystal aromatic polyesters (LCAPs) have been used in wide applications, such as chip packaging and airship skin. The traditional polymerization of LCAP is catalyzed by inorganic salts, for example, sodium acetate. Herein, we reported three kinds of ionic liquids (ILs) as catalysts to promote LCAP polymerization for the first time. The effects of ILs on the polymerization behaviors are investigated by in situ observing the liquid crystal (LC) phase behaviors based on the thin‐film polymerization technique. The evolution of LC phase over time was detailly investigated by analyzing the emergence, fusion, and growth of LC phase. The temperature from 170 to 210°C and the catalyst concentration in range from 0 to 0.5 wt% are compared, showing that temperature at 210°C and catalyst concentration at 0.5 wt% are the best polymerization conditions for all ILs catalysts. In comparison with trimethylsulfonium iodide and piperidine acetate, 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium acetate has the best catalytic effect for the polymerization of LCAP in all experimental conditions. The successful polymerization was confirmed by FT‐IR spectra, showing the increased intensity of vibration peak at 1735 cm−1 attributed to the generation of ester groups while the decreased intensities of vibration peaks at 1759 and 1370 cm−1.
Quantitative assessment of polymer molecular shape based on changes in the slope of the Mark‐Houwink plot derived from size‐exclusion chromatography with triple detection
Authors: Bos Tijmen S. , Philipsen Harry J. A. , Staal Bastiaan B. P. , Purmova Jindra , Beerends René J. L. , Buijtenhuijs Ab , Karlson Leif , Schoenmakers Peter J. , Somsen Govert W. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractA new approach is presented for gaining additional insights from the molecular weight distribution and intrinsic viscosity of polymers as obtained using size‐exclusion chromatography in combination with refractive index, viscometry, and multiangle light scattering detectors. The approach allows for a more quantitative interpretation of the Mark‐Houwink plot by assessing the variation of the slope as a function of molecular weight. No prior information on the inter‐ and intramolecular interactions of the polymer is needed. The proposed curvature parameter can be correlated to the structural and chemical properties (e.g., branching, composition, randomness) of the polymer. The influence of the covered molecular weight interval and the sample concentration on the precision of the method was studied. This new workflow can be utilized to assess the effect of the solvent system and conditions on the solvation behavior of polymers. To evaluate the applicability of the workflow, three case studies have been performed, including an analysis of ethylene‐propylene‐diene monomer, cellulose ether, and polyamide‐4,10 samples. In addition, an open‐access tool is provided, to aid polymer researchers in incorporating this approach in their work. The developed method can be used to quickly investigate whether an industrial polymer batch contains unwanted branched species or exhibits particular solvation behavior.
High erosion resistance thermoplastic polyurethanes composites fabricated via intercalation reinforced interfacial interaction
Authors: Ma Yuji , Cui Xiaofeng , Huang Ming , Zhang Na , Gao Guoli , Liu Shihai 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe weak interface and poor dispersion of carbon nanofillers in polymer matrix composites lead to a significant decrease in their performance, restricting the development of polymer nanocomposites. In this work, a highly facile strategy has been developed to improve the interfacial adhesion performance between graphene nanoplates (GNP) and thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) matrix via self‐polymerization of dopamine. Then, single‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNT), as reinforcing agent, were introduced into surface modified GNP solution to prepare the corresponding ternary composites. Scanning electron microscope images show that GNP and CNT formed 3‐D interconnecting network‐like architecture. The sample modified with three layers of nonwoven fabric decorated with 1.0 mg/mL nanomaterial exhibit a tensile strength 35% higher than that of the virgin TPU. Consequently, compared with virgin TPU, the erosion resistance and thermal conductivity are enhanced by 78% and 45%, respectively.
Investigating the relationship between cranial bone thickness and diploic channels: A first comparison between fossil Homo sapiens and Homo neanderthalensis
Authors: Hui Jiaming , Balzeau Antoine 
Published: December 2023

AbstractDiploic veins are part of the circulatory system of the head. They transport venous blood and cerebrospinal fluid and are housed in diploic channels (DCs). DCs are highly variable in terms of their position, extension, and size. These parameters were hypothesized to be related to the variations in cranial vault thickness (CVT). For the first time, we analyzed the spatial relationship between CVT and DCs in a sample of eight H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens cranial fossils. Using micro‐CT scanning data, we constructed color maps of the CVT and visually inspected whether the regional thickness variation was associated with the morphology and distribution of the DC branches. The results showed that when regional bone thickness was below a certain threshold, no DCs or scattered small DC branches were present. Larger DC branches appeared only when the thickness exceeded the threshold. However, once the threshold was reached, further increases in thickness no longer resulted in more or larger DCs. This study also found that our sample of H. neanderthalensis and H. sapiens have different distribution patterns in thin areas, which may affect how their DCs connect with different branches of the middle meningeal vessels. This preliminary study provides evidence for the discussion on the interaction between the cranium, brain, and blood vessels. Future research should include more hominin fossils to better document the variation within each species and possible evolutionary trends among hominin lineages.
Synthesis of High‐Fluorescent Diphenyl−anthracene Derivatives and Application in Detection of Nitroaromatic Explosives and Fingerprint Identification
Authors: Lai Jiagen , Pan Qinghua , Ma Qingfang , Shan Xiaoyue , Chen Lian , Gao Jianhua 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe development of high‐intensity fluorescent materials is always the focuses and forefront projects because of their important applications in displays, sensing and detection fields. In recent years, the detection of explosives has attracted increasing attention due to security and counterterrorism issues. Herein, two diphenyl−anthracene (DPA) derivatives were designed and synthesized by introducing strong electron withdrawing fluorine atoms and cyano‐groups to DPA, which exhibited strong fluorescence both in the solution and solid phase with the absolute quantum yields up to 70.4 % and 45.9 % respectively. The detection behavior of nitroaromatic explosives such as picric acid (PA), 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) and 3‐Nitropropionic acid (3‐NP) also shows good sensitivity with the quenching constant as high as 6.3×104 L mol−1. Theoretical calculation demonstrates that the fluorescence quenching behavior of the two DPA derivatives is caused by the behavior of photoinduced electron transfer (PET) and the resonance energy transfer (RET) studies explained the higher sensitivity and selectivity of both compounds towards PA than other nitro‐containing explosives. Furthermore, the strong solid‐state fluorescence of the DPA derivatives also shows excellent advantages in enhancing latent fingerprint recognition.
A critical look at adjusted fetal weights in rats
Authors: Wise L. David , DeSesso John M. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundA new derived (i.e., calculated) endpoint of developmental toxicology has appeared in a very few studies since 1990. This endpoint is adjusted mean live fetal weight per litter or adjusted fetal weight. Given our lack of familiarity with the endpoint, we evaluated the basis, prevalence, methods, and usefulness in embryo‐fetal developmental toxicity (EFDT) studies in rats.MethodsLiterature searches were performed with key terms using PubMed and Google Scholar. Major textbooks were consulted but lack of any mention of the endpoint. Unpublished EFDT data, which are readily available online, were utilized to test adjustment methods.ResultsPertinent information on factors that influence fetal weight goes back a century. Four papers utilizing rats were found in which fetal weights were adjusted using either statistical or formula‐based methods to adjust fetal weights. Only one study showed a clear benefit to the endpoint when there was a marked decrease in live litter size; this pointed to situations in which the new endpoint might be useful. The lone formula‐based adjustment method was found to be lacking adequate testing and justifications. A new experimental alternative formula‐based adjustment is shown to produce results very similar to statistical methods.ConclusionsFrom this assessment, we recommend that adjusted fetal weight should not be a routine endpoint at this time. However, there are likely cases where this derived endpoint could aid interpretation. We encourage other investigators to examine previous EFDT study data to establish guidance on the use of adjusted mean live fetal weights.
A signal‐switchable fluorescent probe for detection of HPO42− based on 5,10,15,20‐(4‐sulphonatophenyl)porphyrin (TPPS4)
Authors: Mu Wencheng , Li Jing , Wang Siying , Ma Tianfeng , Shi Lin , Xu Xiaohua , Lu Yongchang , Wang Huan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIn this study, 5,10,15,20‐(4‐sulphonatophenyl)porphyrin (TPPS4) was selected as a fluorescent probe due to its excellent characteristics including high quantum yield, good water solubility, and exceptional biocompatibility. With an excitation wavelength set at 515 nm, the optimal fluorescence emission wavelength for TPPS4 was measured at 642 nm. At this moment, the fluorescence signal of TPPS4 pink solution was in the ‘ON’ state. The fluorescence intensity of TPPS4 was quenched when ascorbic acid (AA) was introduced, which was due to the electron transfer quenching effect between AA and TPPS4. The colour of the corresponding solution changed from pink to green, and the fluorescence signal was in the ‘OFF’ state. When HPO42− was further introduced into the TPPS4–AA system, the quenched fluorescence intensity of TPPS4 was recovered due to the unique interaction between HPO42− and AA. At this time, the colour of the corresponding solution changed from green to red, and the fluorescence signal was in the ‘ON’ state. Therefore, an ‘ON–OFF–ON’ signal‐switchable fluorescent probe was constructed based on TPPS4 to detect HPO42−. The results showed that the linear range of HPO42− was 4.0 × 10−9 to 1.7 × 10−6 M, and the detection limit was 1.3 × 10−9 M (S/N = 3). The sensing system exhibited high accuracy and sensitivity, and it could be used successfully to detect HPO42− in real samples.
A glimpse into the structural properties of α‐synuclein oligomers
Authors: Santos Jaime , Pallarès Irantzu , Ventura Salvador 
Published: December 2023

Abstractα‐Synuclein (αS) aggregation is the main neurological hallmark of a group of debilitating neurodegenerative disorders, collectively referred to as synucleinopathies, of which Parkinson's disease is the most prevalent. αS oligomers formed during the initial stages of aggregation are considered key pathogenic drivers of disease onset and progression, standing as privileged targets for therapeutic intervention and diagnosis. However, the structure of αS oligomers and the mechanistic basis of oligomer to fibril conversion are yet poorly understood, thereby precluding the rational formulation of strategies aimed at targeting oligomeric species. In this review, we delve into the recent advances in the structural and mechanistic characterization of αS oligomers. We also discuss how these advances are transforming our understanding of these elusive species and paving the way for oligomer‐targeting therapeutics and diagnosis.
Glycosaminoglycan dermatan sulfate supplementation decreases diet‐induced obesity and metabolic dysfunction in mice
Authors: Stojnić Bojan , Galmés Sebastiá , Serrano Alba , Sulli Maria , Sušak Lana , Seye Ndioba , Palou Andreu , Diretto Gianfranco , Bonet M. Luisa , Ribot Joan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractGlycosaminoglycans are complex carbohydrates used as nutraceuticals for diverse applications. We studied the potential of the glycosaminoglycan dermatan sulfate (DS) to counteract the development of diet‐induced obesity (DIO) using obesity‐prone mice fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) as a model. Oral DS supplementation protected the animals against HFD‐induced increases in whole‐body adiposity, visceral fat mass, adipocyte size, blood glucose levels, insulin resistance, and pro‐inflammatory lipids levels in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and the liver, where it largely counteracted the HFD‐induced changes in the nonpolar metabolome. Protection against DIO in the DS‐supplemented mice occurred despite higher energy intake and appeared to be associated with increased energy expenditure, higher uncoupling protein 1 expression in BAT, decreased BAT “whitening,” and an enhanced channeling of fuel substrates toward skeletal muscle. This work is the first preclinical study to examine the anti‐obesity activity of DS tested individually in vivo. The results support possible uses of DS as an active component in functional foods/supplements to manage obesity and associated metabolic diseases.
Hypoxia is correlated with the tumor immune microenvironment: Potential application of immunotherapy in bladder cancer
Authors: Chen Haotian , Zhang Yao , Chen Xingyu , Xu Runshi , Zhu Yuxing , He Dong , Cheng YaXin , Wang Zhanwang , Qing Xiang , Cao Ke 
Published: December 2023

AbstractObjectiveHypoxia, which can considerably affect the tumor microenvironment, hinders the use of immunotherapy in bladder cancer (BLCA). Therefore, we aimed to identify reliable hypoxia‐related biomarkers to guide clinical immunotherapy in BLCA.MethodsUsing data downloaded from TCGA‐BLCA cohort, we determined BLCA subtypes which divide 408 samples into different subtypes. Tumor immune infiltration levels of two clusters were quantified using ssGSEA, MCPcounter, EPIC, ESTIMATE, and TIMER algorithms. Next, we constructed a hypoxia score based on the expression of hypoxia‐related genes. The IMvigor210 cohort and SubMap analysis were used to predict immunotherapeutic responses in patients with different hypoxia scores. Hub genes were screened using cytoscape, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and multispectral immunofluorescence were used to detect the spatial distribution of immune markers.ResultsPatients with BLCA were categorized into cluster1 (n = 227) and Cluster2 (n = 181). Immune infiltration and expression of immune markers were higher in Cluster1. Immune infiltration was also more obvious in the high‐hypoxia score group which related to a better predicted response to immunotherapy. IHC, and multispectral immunofluorescence confirmed the importance of TLR8 in immune infiltration and immune phenotype.ConclusionsBLCA subtype can evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in the tumor microenvironment of different patients. Hypoxia score in this study could effectively predict immunotherapeutic responses in patients with BLCA. TLR8 may be a potential target for clinical immunotherapy.
Clinical characteristics and prognostic factors analysis of core binding factor acute myeloid leukemia in real world
Authors: Zhai Yamei , Wang Qingya , Ji Li , Ren Hanyun , Dong Yujun , Yang Fan , Yin Yue , Liang Zeyin , Wang Qian , Liu Wei , Mei Yan , Zhang Lu , Li Yuan 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundChromosomal translocations involving core binding factor (CBF) genes account for 15% of adult acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases in China. Despite being classified as favorable‐risk by European Leukemia Net (ELN), CBF‐AML patients have a 40% relapse rate. This study aims to analyze clinical characteristics and prognosis of CBF‐AML, compare its subtypes (inv(16) and t(8;21)), and validate prognostic factors.MethodsRetrospective analysis of 149 AML patients (75 CBF‐AML, 74 non‐CBF) at Peking University First Hospital (March 2012–March 2022).ResultsCBF‐AML patients have significantly lower disease‐free survival (DFS) (p = 0.005) and higher non‐relapse mortality (NRM) (p = 0.028) compared to non‐CBF AML. inv (16) and t(8;21) show distinct co‐occurring gene mutation patterns, with inv(16) being prone to central nervous system (CNS) leukemia. Multivariate analysis identifies age as a risk factor for overall survival (OS) and disease free survival (DFS), kinase mutation as a risk factor for DFS and Recurrence, while WT1 mutation as a risk factor for OS and non relapse mortality (NRM) risk in t(8;21) AML. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo‐HSCT) improves prognosis in low‐risk t(8;21).ConclusionPrognosis of CBF‐AML is poorer than ELN guidelines suggest. inv(16) and (8;21) are separate entities with relatively poor prognoses, requiring rational risk stratification strategies. Allo‐HSCT may benefit low‐risk t(8;21), but further research is needed for conclusive evidence.
Diagnosis, testing, treatment, and outcomes among patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer in the United States
Authors: Yang Mo , MacEwan Joanna P. , Boppudi Sai Sriteja , McClain Monica R. , O'Hara Richard M. , Paik Paul K. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntroductionCharacteristics of patients in clinical trials may differ from those of real‐world patients. Our objective was to describe biomarker testing and outcomes among patients with advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (aNSCLC) in a real‐world setting.MethodsThis retrospective cohort study included patients ≥18 years old, diagnosed with stage IIIB/C or IV NSCLC, and in the TEMPUS oncology dataset from January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2020. Patient characteristics associated with biomarker testing were evaluated in patients with positive biomarkers using univariate logistic regression models. Cox proportional hazard models were used to estimate median survival.ResultsOf 9540 patients included, 41.7% had biomarker testing, and 2158 had a positive biomarker result. Men (vs women; odds ratio [OR], 0.82; 95% CI: 0.74–0.91), Black patients (vs White; OR, 0.83; 95% CI: 0.72–0.97), patients with squamous (OR, 0.22; 95% CI: 0.19–0.25) or unknown histology (OR, 0.53; 95% CI: 0.45–0.61) (vs non‐squamous histology), and patients with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG PS) of 2+ (OR, 0.69; 95% CI: 0.57–0.84) or missing (OR, 0.56; 95% CI: 0.48–0.66) (vs ECOG PS of 0) were less likely to undergo biomarker testing. Patients with positive biomarkers who received NCCN‐recommended treatment options (55.7%) had significantly longer median overall survival (OS) (hazard ratio [HR], 0.84; 95% CI: 0.75–0.95) and real‐world progression‐free survival (rwPFS) (HR, 0.68; 95% CI: 0.62–0.75).ConclusionMore than 50% of patients were untested for biomarkers. Patients who were less likely to be tested included men, Black patients, current smokers, patients with squamous aNSCLC, and patients with an ECOG PS of 2+. Patients with positive biomarkers who received NCCN‐recommended treatment options had significantly longer OS and PFS.
Beyond the horizon: Neutrophils leading the way in the evolution of immunotherapy
Authors: Rajgopal Sanjana , Nakano Kosuke , Cook Leah M. 
Published: December 2023

AbstractCancer is a complex and dynamic disease, initiated by a multitude of intrinsic mutations and progressed with the assistance of the tissue microenvironment, encompassed by stromal cells including immune cell infiltration. The novel finding that tumors can evade anti‐cancer immune functions shaped the field of immunotherapy, which has been a revolutionary approach for the treatment of cancers. However, the development of predominantly T cell‐targeted immunotherapy approaches, such as immune checkpoint inhibition, also brought about an accumulation of evidence demonstrating other immune cell drivers of tumor progression, such as innate immune cells and notably, neutrophils. In the past decade, neutrophils have emerged to be primary mediators of multiple cancer types and even in recent years, are gaining attention for their potential use in the next generation of immunotherapies. Here, we review current immunotherapy strategies and thoroughly discuss the roles of neutrophils in cancer and novel neutrophil‐targeted methods for treating cancer.