Multifunctional Role Research Articles

THE FUNCTIONS OF THE CHARACTER/S IN THE NOVEL THE PALACE OF DREAMS BY ISMAIL KADARE

The Palace of Dreams considering its anti-totalitarian meaning is a miracle of its own because it was published under the communist system of the time by virtue of the novel’s text’s coding in the best possible way. This feature, made the novel important, interesting and challenging to the scholars because it constitutes a literary model that can be studied from different points of view and still provides more new ones. The aim of this paper is to examine the role of the character/s in decoding the hidden meaning layers of the novel by generally applying a formalist approach with a main focus on the structuralist method. These roles will be distinguished by performing a theoretical analysis regarding the involved components in their concretization, by carrying out stylistic analyses to decipher the figurative language and by utilizing these results through interpretive analyses thereby introducing yet another new way of studying the novel’s coded contexts: the first one related to the exposure of the totalitarian dictatorships, the second one related to ethnic identity and the role in terms of the position of Albanians in the socio-political life of the empire and additionally covering an unexplored area in the existing literature. Mark-Alem is delegated multi-functional roles: he becomes a figure, a theme, an idea and a link that holds up the narrative discourse itself. He is the tool that makes the difference between the readers’ understanding of the “historical” events dealt with in this book and the coded contexts that lay under the storyline.

Exosomes multifunctional roles in HIV-1: insight into the immune regulation, vaccine development and current progress in delivery system.

Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV-1) is known to establish a persistent latent infection. The use of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) can effectively reduce the viral load, but the treatment can be costly and may lead to the development of drug resistance and life-shortening side effects. It is important to develop an ideal and safer in vivo target therapy that will effectively block viral replication and expression in the body. Exosomes have recently emerged as a promising drug delivery vehicle due to their low immunogenicity, nanoscale size (30-150nm), high biocompatibility, and stability in the targeted area. Exosomes, which are genetically produced by different types of cells such as dendritic cells, neurons, T and B cells, epithelial cells, tumor cells, and mast cells, are designed for efficient delivery to targeted cells. In this article, we review and highlight recent developments in the strategy and application of exosome-based HIV-1 vaccines. We also discuss the use of exosome-based antigen delivery systems in vaccine development. HIV-1 antigen can be loaded into exosomes, and this modified cargo can be delivered to target cells or tissues through different loading approaches. This review also discusses the immunological prospects of exosomes and their role as biomarkers in disease progression. However, there are significant administrative and technological obstacles that need to be overcome to fully harness the potential of exosome drug delivery systems.

Biological significance of C-reactive protein, the ancient acute phase functionary.

C-reactive protein (CRP) is one of the major members of the family of acute phase proteins (APP). Interest in this CRP was the result of a seminal discovery of its pattern of response to pneumococcal infection in humans. CRP has the unique property of reacting with phosphocholine-containing substances, such as pneumococcal C-polysaccharide, in the presence of Ca2+. The attention regarding the origin of CRP and its multifunctionality has gripped researchers for several decades. The reason can be traced to the integrated evolution of CRP in the animal kingdom. CRP has been unequivocally listed as a key indicator of infectious and inflammatory diseases including autoimmune diseases. The first occurrence of CRP in the evolutionary ladder appeared in arthropods followed by molluscs and much later in the chordates. The biological significance of CRP has been established in the animal kingdom starting from invertebrates. Interestingly, the site of synthesis of CRP is mainly the liver in vertebrates, while in invertebrates it is located in diverse tissues. CRP is a multifunctional player in the scenario of innate immunity. CRP acts as an opsonin in the area of complement activation and phagocytosis. Interestingly, CRP upregulates and downregulates both cytokine production and chemotaxis. Considering various studies of CRP in humans and non-human animals, it has been logically proposed that CRP plays a common role in animals. CRP also interacts with Fcγ receptors and triggers the inflammatory response of macrophages. CRP in other animals such as primates, fish, echinoderms, arthropods, and molluscs has also been studied in some detail which establishes the evolutionary significance of CRP. In mammals, the increase in CRP levels is an induced response to inflammation or trauma; interestingly, in arthropods and molluscs, CRP is constitutively expressed and represents a major component of their hemolymph. Investigations into the primary structure of CRP from various species revealed the overall relatedness between vertebrate and invertebrate CRP. Invertebrates lack an acquired immune response; they are therefore dependent on the multifunctional role of CRP leading to the evolutionary success of the invertebrate phyla.

Effective Distribution of Gold Nanorods in Ordered Thick Mesoporous Silica: A Choice of Noninvasive Theranostics.

Porous silica coated gold nanorod core-shell structures demonstrate a multifunctional role in bioimaging, drug delivery, and cancer therapeutics applications. Here, we address a new approach for effective distribution of gold nanorods (GNRs) in a mesoporous silica (MS) shell, viz., one nanorod in one silica particle (GMS). We have studied that silica coating presents major advantages for the better biocompatibility and stability of GNRs. In this study, two different thicknesses of silica shell over GNRs have been discussed as per the application's need; GNRs in thin silica (11 nm) are fit for phototherapy and bioimaging, whereas thick and porous silica (51 nm) coated gold nanorods are suitable for triggered drug delivery and theranostics. However, effective distribution of GNRs in ordered architecture of thick mesoporous silica (MS, more than 50 nm thickness) with high surface area (more than 1000 m2/g) is not well understood so far. Here, we present methodical investigations for uniform and highly ordered mesoporous silica coating over GNRs with tunable thickness (6 to 51 nm). Judicious identification and optimization of different reaction parameters like concentrations of silica precursor (TEOS, 1.85-43.9 mM), template (CTAB, 0.9-5.7 mM), effect of temperature, pH (8.6-10.8), stirring speed (100-400 rpm), and, most importantly, the mode of addition of TEOS with GNRs have been discussed. Studies with thick, porous silica coated GNRs simplify the highest ever reported surface area (1100 m2/g) and cargo capacity (57%) with better product yield (g/batch). First and foremost, we report a highly scalable (more than 500 mL) and rapid direct deposition of an ordered MS shell around GNRs. These engineered core-shell nanoparticles demonstrate X-ray contrast property, synergistic photothermal-chemotherapeutics, and imaging of tumor cell (96% cell death) due to released fluorescent anticancer drug molecules and photothermal effect (52 °C) of embedded GNRs. A deeper insight into their influence on the architectural features and superior theranostics performances has been illustrated in detail. Hence, these findings indicate the potential impact of individual GMS for image guided combination therapeutics of cancer.

New insights into intestinal macrophages in necrotizing enterocolitis: the multi-functional role and promising therapeutic application.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an inflammatory intestinal disease that profoundly affects preterm infants. Currently, the pathogenesis of NEC remains controversial, resulting in limited treatment strategies. The preterm infants are thought to be susceptible to gut inflammatory disorders because of their immature immune system. In early life, intestinal macrophages (IMφs), crucial components of innate immunity, demonstrate functional plasticity and diversity in intestinal development, resistance to pathogens, maintenance of the intestinal barrier, and regulation of gut microbiota. When the stimulations of environmental, dietary, and bacterial factors interrupt the homeostatic processes of IMφs, they will lead to intestinal disease, such as NEC. This review focuses on the IMφs related pathogenesis in NEC, discusses the multi-functional roles and relevant molecular mechanisms of IMφs in preterm infants, and explores promising therapeutic application for NEC.

A inter-relação entre os espaços livres e os recursos hídricos urbanos: uma revisão sistemática da literatura

With the rapid urban growth, the expansion of cities has significantly impacted the environmental dimension. Within cities, open spaces play an important multifunctional role, being areas not occupied by buildings and with social, political and cultural relevance. The Open Space System (OSS) involves elements and relationships that structure this set of open spaces, including its water network, and its understanding is essential for the development and quality of life in urban areas. This bibliographic research used the Systematic Literature Review to understand the state of the art of scientific productions that interrelate public open spaces with water resources. Articles, dissertations and theses were selected. Bibliometric analysis revealed that the topic is widely discussed in specialized journals and has been researched in several countries. This systematic review contributed to outline the relationship between open spaces and water resources, highlighting the importance of integrated urban planning that promotes the conservation of natural resources and the creation of a sustainable urban environment.

Design, Synthesis, and Photophysical Characterization of Multifunctional Far‐Red Squaraine Dyes for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells

Novel far‐red sensitive symmetrical squaraine (SQ) dyes aiming toward multifunctional properties such as control of dye aggregation, promotion of molecular self‐assembly, and introduction of electrolyte function by alkyl chain terminal modification are designed. Newly designed dyes without terminal modification as reference (SQ‐5) along with iodine (SQ‐77) and imidazole (SQ‐79) alkyl terminal‐modified dyes are successfully synthesized, characterized, and subjected to detailed photophysical investigations. Iodine terminal modification (SQ‐77) leads to enhanced molar extinction coefficient, dye aggregation, dye loading, and binding strength on the TiO2 surface, which is found by just the opposite after the imidazole (SQ‐79) terminal modification. Demonstration of nearly similar photovoltaic performance by SQ‐77 and SQ‐79 in the absence of iodine and chenodeoxycholic acid validates their multifunctional role as electrolyte function and dye aggregation prevention, respectively, in addition to their main role as photosensitizer. Dye‐sensitized solar cells fabricated with SQ‐5 as a sensitizer show efficient far‐red to near‐infrared photo sensitization and photon harvesting with short‐circuit photocurrent density, open‐circuit voltage, and fill factor of 11.98 mA cm−2, 0.61 V, and 0.57, respectively, leading to a photoconversion efficiency of 4.2% under simulated solar irradiation.

Multifunctional Roles of Clathrate Hydrate Nanoreactors for CO2 Reduction.

In this study, we explore a possible platform for the CO2 reduction (CO2 R) in one of water's solid phases, namely clathrate hydrates (CHs), by ab initio molecular dynamics and well-tempered metadynamics simulations with periodic boundary conditions. We found that the stacked H2 O nanocages in CHs help to initialize CO2 R by increasing the electron-binding ability of CO2 . The substantial CO2 R processes are further influenced by the hydrogen bond networks in CHs. The first intermediate CO2 - in this process can be stabilized through cage structure reorganization into the H-bonded [CO2 - ⋅⋅⋅H-OHcage ] complex. Further cooperative structural dynamics enables the complex to convert into a vital transient [CO2 2- ⋅⋅⋅H-OHcage ] intermediate in a low-barrier disproportionation-like process. Such a highly reactive intermediate spontaneously triggers subsequent double proton transfer along its tethering H-bonds, finally converting it into HCOOH. These hydrogen-bonded nanoreactors feature multiple functions in facilitating CO2 R such as confining, tethering, H-bond catalyzing and proton pumping. Our findings have a general interest and extend the knowledge of CO2 R into porous aqueous systems.

Unraveling the Multifaceted Role of the Golgi Apparatus: Insights into Neuronal Plasticity, Development, Neurogenesis, Alzheimer's Disease, and SARS-CoV-2 Interactions.

This article critically evaluates the multifunctional role of the Golgi apparatus within neurological paradigms. We succinctly highlight its influence on neuronal plasticity, development, and the vital trafficking and sorting mechanisms for proteins and lipids. The discourse further navigates to its regulatory prominence in neurogenesis and its implications in Alzheimer's Disease pathogenesis. The emerging nexus between the Golgi apparatus and SARS-CoV-2 underscores its potential in viral replication processes. This consolidation accentuates the Golgi apparatus's centrality in neurobiology and its intersections with both neurodegenerative and viral pathologies. In essence, understanding the Golgi's multifaceted functions harbors profound implications for future therapeutic innovations in neurological and viral afflictions.

Intermetallic FeSb2 in a Multifunctional Role of Highly Selective and Efficient Adsorbent, Catalyst, and HER Electrocatalyst

Intermetallic FeSb₂ in a Multifunctional Role of Highly Selective and Efficient Adsorbent, Catalyst, and HER Electrocatalyst

Multifilamentary switching of Cu/SiOx memristive devices with a Ge-implanted a-Si underlayer for analog synaptic devices

Various memristive devices have been proposed for use in neuromorphic computing systems as artificial synapses. Analog synaptic devices with linear conductance updates during training are efficiently essential to train neural networks. Although many different analog memristors have been proposed, a more reliable approach to implement analog synaptic devices is needed. In this study, we propose the memristor of a Cu/SiOx/implanted a-SiGex/p++ c-Si structure containing an a-Si layer with properly controlled conductance through Ge implantation. The a-SiGex layer plays a multifunctional role in device operation by limiting the current overshoot, confining the heat generated during operation and preventing the silicide formation reaction between the active metal (Cu) and the Si bottom electrode. Thus, the a-SiGex interface layer enables the formation of multi-weak filaments and induces analog switching behaviors. The TEM observation shows that the insertion of the a-SiGex layer between SiOx and c-Si remarkably suppresses the formation of copper silicide, and reliable set/reset operations are secured. The origin of the analog switching behaviors is discussed by analyzing current-voltage characteristics and electron microscopy images. Finally, the memristive-neural network simulations show that our developed memristive devices provide high learning accuracy and are promising in future neuromorphic computing hardware.

Structural and Functional Diversity of the Peroxiredoxin 6 Enzyme Family.

Significance: Peroxiredoxins (Prdxs) with a single peroxidative cysteine (CP) in a conserved motif PXXX(T/S)XXCP within its thioredoxin fold, have been classified as the peroxiredoxin 6 (Prdx6 ) family. All Prdxs can reduce H2O2 and short chain hydroperoxides while Prdx6 in addition, can reduce phospholipid hydroperoxides (PLOOH) due to its ability to interact with peroxidized phospholipid substrate. The single CP of Prdx6 uses various external electron donors including glutathione thioredoxin, and ascorbic acid for resolution of its peroxidized state and, therefore, its peroxidase activity. Prdx6 proteins also exhibit Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 (PLA2), lysophosphatidylcholine acyltransferase (LPCAT), and chaperone activities that depend on cellular localization and the oxidation and oligomerisation states of the protein. Thus, Prdx6 is a "moonlighting" enzyme. Recent Advance: Physiologically, Prdx6s have been reported to play an important role in protection against oxidative stress, repair of peroxidized cell membranes, mammalian lung surfactant turnover, activation of some NADPH oxidases, the regulation of seed germination in plants, as an indicator of cellular levels of reactive O2 species through Nrf-Klf9 activation, and possibly in male fertility, regulation of cell death through ferroptosis, cancer metastasis, and oxidative stress-related signalling pathways. Critical Issues: This review outlines Prdx6 enzyme unique structural features and explores its wide range of physiological functions. Yet, existing structural data falls short of fully revealing all of human Prdx6 multifunctional roles. Further endeavour is required to bridge this gap in its understanding. Although there are wide variations in both the structure and function of Prdx6 family members in various organisms, all Prdx6 proteins show the unique a long C-terminal extension that is also seen in Prdx1, but not in other Prdxs. Future Directions: As research data continues to accumulate, the potential for detailed insights into the role of C-terminal of Prdx6 in its oligomerisation and activities. There is a need for thorough exploration of structural characteristics of the various biological functions. Additionally, uncovering the interacting partners of Prdx6 and understanding its involvement in signalling pathways will significantly contribute to a more profound comprehension of its role.

Intelligent anti-corrosion coating with multiple protections using active nanocontainers of Zn[sbnd]Al LDH equipped with ZIF-8 encapsulated environment-friendly corrosion inhibitors

The incalculable metal corrosion loss makes the research of long-term corrosion resistant coatings attract much attention. Herein, we demonstrated a new strategy for constructing a pH-responsive nanocontainer as a gatekeeper, which consisted of a laminated double hydroxide (LDH) surface in situ grown ZIF-8 containing the corrosion inhibitor of 2-mercaptobenzimidazole (MBM). The shell-core structures of the composite fillers displayed the excellent barrier performance and pH-responsive controlled release properties in epoxy (EP) coatings. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and salt spray tests were conducted to investigate the multifunctional role in providing an intelligent anti-corrosion MBM@ZIF-8@LDH/EP composite coating. After immersing in salt solution (3.5 wt%) for 30 days, the impedance value of the MBM@ZIF-8@LDH/EP coating at 0.01 Hz (|Z|0.01 Hz) was 2.82 × 108 Ω∙cm2, which was about four orders of magnitude higher than that of the epoxy coating (1.54 × 104 Ω∙cm2). The outstanding corrosion protection of MBM@ZIF-8@LDH was attributed to not only the compactness improvement of the composite coating, but also the anion exchange capability to act as a storage station for chloride ions. Meanwhile, the active filler could be used as a pH-responsive nanocontainer to release the loaded corrosion inhibitor of MBM and prevented further damage to the steel substrate, displaying a self-healing behavior. This strategy provides a new idea to combine perfect barrier effect and active anti-corrosion performance to prepare high-performance anti-corrosion and self-healing coatings. The multi-protective smart anti-corrosive coating would be a candidate with excellent performance for use in a variety of fields.

Oligomeric State of β-Coronavirus Non-Structural Protein 10 Stimulators Studied by Small Angle X-ray Scattering.

The β-coronavirus family, encompassing Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (SARS), and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS), has triggered pandemics within the last two decades. With the possibility of future pandemics, studying the coronavirus family members is necessary to improve knowledge and treatment. These viruses possess 16 non-structural proteins, many of which play crucial roles in viral replication and in other vital functions. One such vital protein is non-structural protein 10 (nsp10), acting as a pivotal stimulator of nsp14 and nsp16, thereby influencing RNA proofreading and viral RNA cap formation. Studying nsp10 of pathogenic coronaviruses is central to unraveling its multifunctional roles. Our study involves the biochemical and biophysical characterisation of full-length nsp10 from MERS, SARS and SARS-CoV-2. To elucidate their oligomeric state, we employed a combination of Multi-detection Size exclusion chromatography (Multi-detection SEC) with multi-angle static light scattering (MALS) and small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) techniques. Our findings reveal that full-length nsp10s primarily exist as monomers in solution, while truncated versions tend to oligomerise. SAXS experiments reveal a globular shape for nsp10, a trait conserved in all three coronaviruses, although MERS nsp10, diverges most from SARS and SARS-CoV-2 nsp10s. In summary, unbound nsp10 proteins from SARS, MERS, and SARS-CoV-2 exhibit a globular and predominantly monomeric state in solution.

Reproduction and Anti-Obesity Medications: A Review of Current Evidence

Obesity, typified by the disproportionate accumulation of body fat, constitutes a burgeoning global health dilemma with far-reaching impacts on numerous facets of human well-being, prominently inclusive of reproductive health. The pervasive effects of this worldwide health predicament are both direct and indirect, having a compelling influence on fertility, thus underlining the exigency for efficacious therapeutic interventions. FDA-approved anti-obesity pharmaceuticals, comprising metformin, orlistat, phentermine, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as liraglutide and semaglutide, have been substantiated to facilitate weight loss and enhance metabolic indices. However, despite their promising roles in mitigating obesity, the extent of our understanding of these drugs' implications for reproductive health remains inadequate.This thorough review endeavors to aggregate and scrutinize the present corpus of evidence relating to the influence of these anti-obesity drugs on fertility. By exploring the prospective direct and indirect impacts of these pharmaceuticals on reproductive health, we aspire to illuminate their multifunctional roles extending beyond the sphere of weight regulation. In the female population, obesity has been correlated with menstrual abnormalities, infertility, and complications during gestation, frequently concurrent with an increased incidence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). In the male counterpart, obesity has been associated with compromised semen quality and erectile function, often compounded by Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and hormonal disequilibrium.This exhaustive analysis seeks to equip physicians with a framework for refining their therapeutic approaches, appreciating the intricate interplay between obesity treatment and reproductive health. We aim to afford a broader and more nuanced comprehension of the complex interrelations between obesity, anti-obesity medications, and reproductive well-being. The intention is to empower healthcare practitioners with the insights necessary to deliver bespoke care strategies to those grappling with obesity and attendant fertility complications. Ultimately, this initiative augments our evolving understanding of the complex mechanisms operating at the juncture of obesity and fertility, thereby paving the way for future investigations in this critical field of study.

Irrigation development as a booster of the multifunctional roles of paddy rice

AbstractTo promote sustainable production and the multiple roles of paddy rice, it is essential to expand our understanding of the impacts of different management options, with particular emphasis on irrigation development. The impact of various management practices (supplementary irrigation during the rainy season, improved fertilization, cropping during the dry season and mulching practices) on irrigation water requirements, crop productivity and the multifunctional roles of irrigated paddy rice was evaluated in diverse agro‐ecological zones of Zambia, by using the AquaCrop model. Irrigation development has been demonstrated to boost paddy rice production (by 8%) in the southern districts by providing supplementary irrigation (about 150 mm) during the rainy season. Additionally, supplementary irrigation during the rainy season can make improved fertilization more attractive, doubling the yield rise under rainfed conditions. The required irrigation development would also enable paddy rice cropping intensification by allowing for dry season sowing (with net irrigation requirements from 700 to 800 mm). Moreover, the associated straw production increase could also play an important role as mulch during the dry season, reducing the net irrigation requirements by 15%. These findings will enable policymakers to make informed decisions regarding investment strategies and policies.

HISTOPATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN THE NUCLEUS AND CONTRACTILE APPARATUS OF CARDIOMYOCYTES IN OVERT ACQUIRED PRIMARY HYPOTHYROIDISM: EXPERIMENTAL STUDY

Hypothyroidism causes a number of histological changes in almost all tissues and cells of the body of a mammal, which is accompanied by numerous clinical and functional disorders. This is due to the multifaceted and multifunctional role of thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodothyronine) in the body of mammals. Striated cardiac muscle tissue and its main structural unit (contractile cardiomyocyte) is one of the most frequently involved tissues in the histopathological process in hypothyroidism. In addition, hypothyroidism can be considered as one of the main risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases (heart failure, coronary heart disease, cardiac arrhythmias), so the study of histopathological changes in cardiac muscle tissue is of great theoretical and practical importance. To date, there are no studies evaluating histopathological ultrastructural changes in contractile cardiomyocytes in certain forms of hypothyroidism, in particular in overt acquired primary hypothyroidism. The purpose of this study is to investigate the histopathological changes in the nucleus and contractile apparatus of cardiomyocytes in the conditions of experimental modeling of overt acquired primary hypothyroidism. Materials and Methods: male Chinchilla rabbits aged 12-14 months and weighing 3.1-3.5 kg (n=10), were divided into 2 equal groups. 1) The experimental group (n=5), where overt primary hypothyroidism was induced by oral administration of the antithyroid drug thiamazole (10 mg/kg for 4 weeks). 2) The animals of the control group (n=5) received placebo and were in a state of normothyroidism. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to study ultrastructural changes in contractile cardiomyocytes. Results and Conclusion: Based on the results of electron microscopic study, we detected numerous ultrastructural changes in the nucleus and contractile apparatus of cardiomyocytes: the nucleus (wrinkling, uneven contours of the nucleus and emergence of karyolemma invaginations, chromatin condensation); in the contractile apparatus (thinning of myofibrils, emergence of areas of myofibrils overcontraction with contractures). These ultrastructural changes in cardiomyocytes underlie the disruption of myocardial contractility, as well as an increase in dystrophic and apoptotic changes with the gradual development of heart failure, which is a frequent companion of untreated overt acquired primary hypothyroidism.

Rational Design of Zincophilic Ag/Permselective PEDOT:PSS Heterogeneous Interfaces for High-Rate Zinc Electrodeposition.

Designing artificial interface is a promising strategy to protect Zn metal anode but achieving long Zn plating/stripping lifespans and efficient nucleation/deposition kinetics, particularly at high current densities, remains a challenge. In this study, a permselective zincophilic heterogeneous interface consisting of metallic Ag layer and poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) is designed via a simple chemical displacement and drop casting process. The artificial interface plays a multifunctional role in inhibiting dendrite growth/side reactions by reducing the nucleation barrier through a large number of Zn nucleation sites offered by the bottom Ag layer, homogenizing electrical field/Zn2+ flux and shielding SO4 2- migration via the compact, conducting, and Zn2+ -permselective PEDOT:PSS supporting layer. Moreover, the heterogeneous interface demonstrates enhanced structural integrity owing to the binder effect of PEDOT:PSS. As a result, the modified Zn anode demonstrates a cyclic lifespan of 200h and a reduced voltage hysteresis of ≈150mV at 20mA cm-2 /5 mAh cm-2 , far surpassing its counterparts. Moreover, the protected Zn anode allows the LiMn2 O4 -based full cells with remarkable rate and cycling performance. These findings provide new insight into the design of an efficient artificial interface for highly reversible and high-rate Zn electrodeposition.

Tripartite Motif-Containing Protein 32 (TRIM32): What Does It Do for Skeletal Muscle?

Tripartite motif-containing protein 32 (TRIM32) is a member of the tripartite motif family and is highly conserved from flies to humans. Via its E3 ubiquitin ligase activity, TRIM32 mediates and regulates many physiological and pathophysiological processes, such as growth, differentiation, muscle regeneration, immunity, and carcinogenesis. TRIM32 plays multifunctional roles in the maintenance of skeletal muscle. Genetic variations in the TRIM32 gene are associated with skeletal muscular dystrophies in humans, including limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2H (LGMD2H). LGMD2H-causing genetic variations of TRIM32 occur most frequently in the C-terminal NHL (ncl-1, HT2A, and lin-41) repeats of TRIM32. LGMD2H is characterized by skeletal muscle dystrophy, myopathy, and atrophy. Surprisingly, most patients with LGMD2H show minimal or no dysfunction in other tissues or organs, despite the broad expression of TRIM32 in various tissues. This suggests more prominent roles for TRIM32 in skeletal muscle than in other tissues or organs. This review is focused on understanding the physiological roles of TRIM32 in skeletal muscle, the pathophysiological mechanisms mediated by TRIM32 genetic variants in LGMD2H patients, and the correlations between TRIM32 and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Multifunctional Roles of Dihydrotetrazine-Decorated Zr-MOFs in Photoluminescence and Colorimetrism for Discrimination of Arsenate and Phosphate Ions in Water.

The high chemical and structural stabilities of zirconium (Zr)-based metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) in aquatic media make them ideal candidates for wastewater treatment. Rational decoration or Zr-MOFs with functional groups can significantly extend their application in this area. In this work, two well-known Zr-MOFs, UiO-66 and MIL-140-A, were functionalized with dihydrotetrazine function to increase their capability in water treatment. Investigations reveal that these two dihydrotetrazine (DHTZ)-functionalized MOFs, namely UiO-66(Zr)-DHTZ and MIL-140(Zr)-DHTZ, can be applied as a two-component array for highly selective and sensitive discrimination of arsenate (AsO43-) and phosphate (PO43-) ions in water in the presence of other anions. Photoluminescence (PL) tests using UiO-66(Zr)-DHTZ show that this MOF can detect these two anions via a ratiometric response, 1.74 for arsenate and 1.84 for phosphate at 2 μM, with superior detection limits (7.2 × 10-8 M for AsO43- and 4.3 × 10-8 M for PO43-). The ratiometric PL response of UiO-66(Zr)-DHTZ toward arsenate and phosphate anions arises possibly from the arsenate-dihydrotetrazine hydrogen bonding. In the next step, colorimetric tests using MIL-140(Zr)-DHTZ were conducted to discriminate the arsenate from phosphate with a very low detection limit at nanomolar level. This MOF undergoes a yellow-to-pink color change in the presence of arsenate ions, while no color change is observed in the presence of phosphate. This color change is observed through conversion of dihydrotetrazine sites inside the pores of MIL-140(Zr)-DHTZ into tetrazine. Altogether, the PL response of UiO-66(Zr)-DHTZ is originated from the hydrogen bond-donating/accepting character of DHTZ function, while the colorimetric response of MIL-140(Zr)-DHTZ is based on the chemical conversion of DHTZ function. This work clearly shows that the decoration of Zr-based MOFs with multicharacter functional groups can develop their application in wastewater treatment as multipurpose platforms.