Unique Structural Attributes Research Articles

The integral role of high‐entropy alloys in advancing solid‐state hydrogen storage

AbstractHigh‐entropy alloys (HEAs) have emerged as a groundbreaking class of materials poised to revolutionize solid‐state hydrogen storage technology. This comprehensive review delves into the intricate interplay between the unique compositional and structural attributes of HEAs and their remarkable hydrogen storage performance. By meticulously exploring the design strategies and synthesis techniques, encompassing experimental procedures, thermodynamic calculations, and machine learning approaches, this work illuminates the vast potential of HEAs in surmounting the challenges faced by conventional hydrogen storage materials. The review underscores the pivotal role of HEAs' diverse elemental landscape and phase dynamics in tailoring their hydrogen storage properties. It elucidates the complex mechanisms governing hydrogen absorption, diffusion, and desorption within these novel alloys, offering insights into enhancing their reversibility, cycling stability, and safety characteristics. Moreover, it highlights the transformative impact of advanced characterization techniques and computational modeling in unraveling the structure–property relationships and guiding the rational design of high‐performance HEAs for hydrogen storage applications. By bridging the gap between fundamental science and practical implementation, this review sets the stage for the development of next‐generation solid‐state hydrogen storage solutions. It identifies key research directions and strategies to accelerate the deployment of HEAs in hydrogen storage systems, including the optimization of synthesis routes, the integration of multiscale characterization, and the harnessing of data‐driven approaches. Ultimately, this comprehensive analysis serves as a roadmap for the scientific community, paving the way for the widespread adoption of HEAs as a disruptive technology in the pursuit of sustainable and efficient hydrogen storage for a clean energy future.

Tropical fruit‐derived starch: An innovative strategy for high‐value nutritional processing of agricultural solid waste

AbstractTropical fruits are popular worldwide due to their appealing flavors and diverse health benefits. However, a significant amount of waste is caused by inferior fruits that are partly eliminated from the fresh fruit market and by‐products produced during transportation, storage, and processing. With increasing focus on environmental sustainability and resource conservation, recycling waste resources from tropical fruits has emerged as a hot topic of interest. Fruit‐derived starch is an emerging approach to adding value for some tropical fruit waste and inferior fruits. This review article briefly overviews extraction methods, chemical composition, structural characteristics, physical and chemical properties, physiological benefits, modification techniques, and potential applications of new tropical fruit‐derived starch. Compared with traditional starch, tropical fruit‐derived starch exhibits unique structural and processing attributes, making it suitable as a supplement or replacement for industrial starch in the food industry. Moreover, tropical fruit‐derived starch retains the rich nutrients and functional components present in fruits to some extent, thereby offering potential health benefits and greater consumer acceptance. Although current research on starch derived from tropical fruits is primarily at the laboratory stage, and there is limited exploration of its processing and application, evolving lifestyle trends and heightened health awareness are expected to foster its further development and utilization, paving the way for large‐scale commercialization and driving future market growth.

Complete Mitochondrial Genome of Tanypus chinensis and Tanypus kraatzi (Diptera: Chironomidae): Characterization and Phylogenetic Implications

Background: Chironomidae occupy a pivotal position within global aquatic ecosystems. The unique structural attributes of the mitochondrial genome provide profound insights and compelling evidence, underpinning the morphological classification of organisms and substantially advancing our understanding of the phylogenetic relationships within Chironomidae. Results: We have meticulously sequenced, assembled, and annotated the mitogenomes of Tanypus chinensis (Wang, 1994) and Tanypus kraatzi (Kieffer, 1912), incorporating an additional 25 previously published mitogenomes into our comprehensive analysis. This extensive dataset enables us to delve deeper into the intricate characteristics and nuances of these mitogenomes, facilitating a more nuanced understanding of their genetic makeup. Conclusions: The genomic nucleotide composition of T. kraatzi was 39.10% A, 36.51% T, 14.33% C, and 10.06% G, with a total length of 1508 bp. The genomic nucleotide composition of T. chinensis was 39.61% A, 36.27% T, 14.55% C, and 9.57% G, with a total length of 1503 bp. This significant enrichment of the chironomid mitogenome library establishes a novel foundation for further exploration in the realm of phylogenetics.

Boron cluster-based TADF emitter via through-space charge transfer enabling efficient orange-red electroluminescence

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) materials driven by a through-space charge transfer (TSCT) mechanism have garnered wide interest. However, access of TSCT-TADF molecules with long-wavelength emission remains a formidable challenge. In this study, we introduce a novel V-type D-A-D-A' emitter, Trz-mCzCbCz, by using a carborane scaffold. This design strategically incorporates carbazole (Cz) and 2,4,6-triphenyl-1,3,5-triazine (Trz) as donor and acceptor moieties, respectively. Theoretical calculations alongside experimental validations affirm the typical TSCT-TADF characteristics of this luminogen. Owing to the unique structural and electronic attributes of carboranes, Trz-mCzCbCz exhibits an orange-red emission, markedly diverging from the traditional blue-to-green emissions observed in classical Cz and Trz-based TADF molecules. Moreover, bright emission in aggregates was observed for Trz-mCzCbCz with absolute photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY) of up to 88.8%. As such, we have successfully fabricated five organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) by utilizing Trz-mCzCbCz as the emitting layer. It is important to note that both the reverse intersystem crossing process and the TADF properties are profoundly influenced by host materials. The fabricated OLED devices reached a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 12.7%, with an emission peak at 592 nm. This represents the highest recorded efficiency for TSCT-TADF OLEDs employing carborane derivatives as emitting layers.

Recent Research Progress in Oxime Insecticides and Perspectives for the Future.

In recent decades, the unique structural attributes and purported insecticidal properties of oximes have garnered increasing attention. A variety of insecticides, encompassing fluxametamide, fluhexafon, and lepimectin, have been synthesized, all of which incorporate oximes. This review endeavors to encapsulate the insecticidal efficacy, structure-activity correlations, and operative mechanisms of oxime-containing compounds. Furthermore, it delves into the conceptual frameworks underpinning the design of innovative oxime-based insecticides, thereby shedding light on prospective advancements in this field.

Distribution patterns and controlling factors of beach bars in Qinghai Lake, NW China

The significance of beach-bar reservoirs, which are intricately linked to unconventional hydrocarbon reservoirs, has gained increased attention. This study elucidates the complex mechanisms governing the formation, spatial distribution, and morphological characteristics of beach bars in Qinghai Lake, NW China, highlighting the interplay of lake-level fluctuations, wind wave dynamics, sediment provenance, and terrain gradient. Our findings reveal that large-scale lake-level fluctuations primarily dictate the initial formation settings of beach bars, while small-scale fluctuations refine their internal stratification and sedimentary features. Wind wave dynamics play a critical role in defining suitable depth zones for beach bar development, influencing their morphology and resulting in distinct sedimentary characteristics across different lake zones. Furthermore, the study categorizes beach bars into three main systems based on sediment provenance—bedrock, alluvial fan (fan delta), and braided river systems—each exhibiting unique compositional and structural attributes. Terrain gradient around the lake significantly affects beach bar formation, with areas having a gradient less than 0.7° being particularly favorable. This research advances our understanding of lacustrine beach bar dynamics, offering insights into their potential as indicators of past environmental conditions and their implications for hydrocarbon exploration. The comprehensive analysis of controlling factors provides a foundation for predicting beach bar distribution and contributes to the broader field of sedimentary geology by integrating multi-disciplinary approaches to study lacustrine sedimentary processes.

Abstract 4582: HDAC6 inhibition reshapes the epigenome of cancer via P300 stabilization

Abstract Introduction: Histone deacetylases (HDACs)are crucial in regulating gene expression, DNA synthesis, and metabolic processes, including cancer, in various cellular environments. The unique structural and functional attributes of class IIb HDAC6 position it as a key player in influencing protein stability and chromatin dynamics. While its role in cancer progression and immunomodulation is well-recognized, the in-depth mechanisms following HDAC6 inactivation, particularly its influence on chromatin remodeling and gene regulation, are not thoroughly understood. This knowledge gap represents a critical area of investigation, given the potential of HDAC6 as a therapeutic target in oncology. This study aims to elucidate HDAC6 inactivation-dependent epigenetic effects of, exploring the possibility to exploit these latter for therapeutic purposes in cancer. This aim includes an examination of the stabilization of the lysine acetyltransferase P300 and its implications for chromatin structure and function. Methods & Results: In this study, ITF3756 and CRISPR/Cas9 were employed to inactivate HDAC6 across a variety of cancer cell lines (Jurkat, MDA 231, HCC1806, 4T1, and B16F10 melanoma). ATAC-seq and H3K27Ac ChIP-seq were used to investigate changes in chromatin accessibility, revealing significant alterations, particularly in introns and distal intergenic regions. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis further supported this alteration in the chromatin landscape, which indicated a differential expression of genes involved in critical cellular processes like cell proliferation, adhesion, migration, and apoptosis. A notable outcome of this study was the stabilization of P300 following ITF3756 treatment, an effect that was paralleled by changes in the expression of critical genes, including AKT1, ITGB3, GAS6, SOX9, NF1, TGFB2, and CASP7. These genes are integral to cellular survival mechanisms, and their modulation emphasizes the role of HDAC6 in cancer cell physiology. Conclusions: This research shows that the chemical or genetic inactivation of HDAC6 impacts cancer cell proliferation and chromatin architecture, underscoring the potential of HDAC6 as a target in cancer therapeutics.. A critical finding of this study is the stabilization of P300, which offers new perspectives on HDAC6's functionality and its role as an epigenetic modifier in cancer cells. This study contributes to the field by suggesting therapeutic strategies focusing on HDAC/HAT pharmacological targeting, thereby advancing our understanding of the role of HDAC6 in regulating cancer cell behavior and epigenetic landscape. Citation Format: Michela Gottardi Zamperla, Barbara Illi, Veronica Barbi, Chiara Cencioni, Stella Gagliardi, Maria Garofalo, Gabriele Antonio Zingale, Irene Pandino, Diego Sbardella, Lina Cipolla, Simone Sabbioneda, Antonella Farsetti, Chiara Ripamonti, Gianluca Fossati, Christian Steinkühler, Sandra Atlante, Carlo Gaetano. HDAC6 inhibition reshapes the epigenome of cancer via P300 stabilization [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 4582.

Unveiling a novel silicene-like material: A DFT study on pentahexoctite-silicon and its optoelectronic characteristics

Silicon-based two-dimensional (2D) materials, including well-known silicene, have garnered considerable attention due to their potential in advanced optoelectronic applications. Here, we introduce a novel 2D silicon variant, pentahexoctite silicon (PH-Si), inspired by the unique structural attributes of pentahexoctite carbon. By using state-of-the-art density functional theory (DFT) calculations and ab initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulations, we investigated the fundamental optoelectronic and structural traits of PH-Si. Our findings reveal that PH-Si boasts promising electronic properties characterized by anisotropic conductance and metallic behavior along specific directions. We also examine its structural and dynamic stability through phonon calculations and AIMD simulations. PH-Si structural stability was also confirmed by its low formation energy of −3.62 eV and dynamical stability at 1000 K. The material exhibits optical absorption in visible (Vis) and ultraviolet (UV) spectral regions, positioning it as a potential Vis-UV detector and absorber. Additionally, we assess its crucial mechanical attributes, encompassing elastic stiffness constants, Young’s modulus (ranging from 5 to 40 GPa), and a Poisson ratio of 0.8, collectively offering valuable insights into its mechanical performance. The comprehensive exploration of PH-Si’s properties is a step towards diversifying silicon-based 2D materials, opening channels for innovative applications in the rapidly evolving field of flat electronics.

Engineering phonon transport through cation disorder in dimensionally constricted high entropy MXene

Designing materials with low thermal conductivity is a crucial objective for applications in thermal insulation and thermoelectrics. Traditional methods such as doping, mechanical strain and introducing defects in perfect crystals have been widely explored to impede the flow of heat. This work introduces dimensional constriction and cationic disorder as novel avenues to manipulate lattice thermal conductivity (LTC). High entropy materials characterized by random distribution of multiple elements, creates a suitable environment for thermal insulation due to its configurational disorder and local lattice distortions. On the other hand, MXenes, derived from MAX-phase, have garnered considerable attention due to their unique structural attributes, leading to potential applications in catalysis and energy storage. Ti2AlC MAX-phase is examined to understand the impact of dimensional constriction on phonon transport of Ti2C with cationic disorder, i.e., (Ti0.25Nb0.25Cr0.25Ta0.25)2C. The exponential reduction in LTC of HE-MXene is attributed to disorder scattering that significantly limits phonon mean free path (MFP) and relaxation time. The spread of mode-resolved LTC with MFP highlights the influence of disorder on phonon scattering. This work provides a systematic approach to engineer LTC through dimensional constriction and cationic disorder, laying the foundation for tailored materials with desired thermal properties.

Wet Twisting in Spinning for Rapid and Cost‐Effective Fabrication of Superior Carbon Nanotube Yarns

AbstractCarbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising blocks for building advanced yarns with unique structural and functional attributes. However, the complexity of fabrication and high cost has hindered the widespread adoption of CNT yarns. In this study, a rapid and continuous twisting wet spun yarn strategy to produce highly densified CNT yarns is presented. The method involves effectively dispersing CNTs in the surfactant dispersion, swiftly removing the surfactant in the coagulation bath and twisting treatment to effectively improve the density of yarn and the orientation of CNT. Detailed characterizations on the influence of each spinning conditions reveal that twisting treatment significantly enhances the packing density of yarns, improves the orientation of CNTs, and mitigates the impact of impurities on conductivity. The resulting CNT yarns exhibit a remarkable tensile strength of 600 MPa, a Young's modulus of ≈40 GPa, and a high conductivity of 8990 S cm−1. When utilized as a yarn heater, the CNT yarn demonstrates an ultra‐fast electrothermal response of over 1000 °C s−1 at a low operating voltage of 5 V. Impressively, the mechanical properties of CNT yarns show good stability during heating. This study provides a perspective of structural engineering for the large‐scale preparation of high‐performance CNT yarns.

Density Functional Theory Unveils the Secrets of SiAuF3 and SiCuF3: Exploring Their Striking Structural, Electronic, Elastic, and Optical Properties.

In the quest for advanced materials with diverse applications in optoelectronics and energy storage, we delve into the fascinating world of halide perovskites, focusing on SiAuF3 and SiCuF3. Employing density functional theory (DFT) as our guiding light, we conduct a comprehensive comparative study of these two compounds, unearthing their unique structural, electronic, elastic, and optical attributes. Structurally, SiAuF3 and SiCuF3 reveal their cubic nature, with SiCuF3 demonstrating superior stability and a higher bulk modulus. Electronic investigations shed light on their metallic behavior, with Fermi energy levels marking the boundary between valence and conduction bands. The band structures and density of states provide deeper insights into the contributions of electronic states in both compounds. Elastic properties unveil the mechanical stability of these materials, with SiCuF3 exhibiting increased anisotropy compared to SiAuF3. Our analysis of optical properties unravels distinct characteristics. SiCuF3 boasts a higher refractive index at lower energies, indicating enhanced transparency in specific ranges, while SiAuF3 exhibits heightened reflectivity in select energy intervals. Further, both compounds exhibit remarkable absorption coefficients, showcasing their ability to absorb light at defined energy thresholds. The energy loss function (ELF) analysis uncovers differential absorption behavior, with SiAuF3 absorbing maximum energy at 6.9 eV and SiCuF3 at 7.2 eV. Our study not only enriches the fundamental understanding of SiAuF3 and SiCuF3 but also illuminates their potential in optoelectronic applications. These findings open doors to innovative technologies harnessing the distinctive qualities of these halide perovskite materials. As researchers seek materials that push the boundaries of optoelectronics and energy storage, SiAuF3 and SiCuF3 stand out as promising candidates, ready to shape the future of these fields.

Viral peptide conjugates for metal-warhead delivery to chromatin.

The presence of heavy metal groups can endow compounds with unique structural and chemical attributes beneficial for developing highly potent therapeutic agents and effective molecular labels. However, metallocompound binding site specificity is a major challenge that dictates the level of off-site targeting, which is a limiting factor in finding safer and more effective metal-based drugs. Here we designed and tested a family of metallopeptide conjugates based on two different chromatin-tethering viral proteins and a drug being repurposed for cancer, the Au(i) anti-arthritic auranofin. The viral peptides associate with the acidic patch of the nucleosome while the gold moiety can bind allosterically to the H3 H113 imidazole. To achieve synthesis of the conjugates, we also engineered a sulfur-free, nucleosome-binding Kaposi's sarcoma herpesvirus LANA peptide with a methionine-to-ornithine substitution and coupled the peptide to the metal group in a final step using click chemistry. The four conjugates tested are all selectively cytotoxic towards tumor cell lines, but the choice of viral peptide and mode of linkage to the Au(i) group influences metal binding site preference. Our findings suggest that viral peptide-metalloconjugates have potential for use in chromatin delivery of therapeutic warheads and as nucleosome-specific tags.

State-of-the-Art Advances and Current Applications of Gel-Based Membranes.

Gel-based membranes, a fusion of polymer networks and liquid components, have emerged as versatile tools in a variety of technological domains thanks to their unique structural and functional attributes. Historically rooted in basic filtration tasks, recent advancements in synthetic strategies have increased the mechanical strength, selectivity, and longevity of these membranes. This review summarizes their evolution, emphasizing breakthroughs that have positioned them at the forefront of cutting-edge applications. They have the potential for desalination and pollutant removal in water treatment processes, delivering efficiency that often surpasses conventional counterparts. The biomedical field has embraced them for drug delivery and tissue engineering, capitalizing on their biocompatibility and tunable properties. Additionally, their pivotal role in energy storage as gel electrolytes in batteries and fuel cells underscores their adaptability. However, despite monumental progress in gel-based membrane research, challenges persist, particularly in scalability and long-term stability. This synthesis provides an overview of the state-of-the-art applications of gel-based membranes and discusses potential strategies to overcome current limitations, laying the foundation for future innovations in this dynamic field.

Nanostructured Composites as High-Performance Anode Materials for Supercapacitors - Synthesis, Engineering Strategy, and Challenges

As electric vehicles continue to rise in popularity, the quest for enhancements in their operational range and overall performance has led to an increasing demand for energy storage solutions with both high energy density and superior cycle performance. In response to this demand, supercapacitors have emerged as a highly promising technology, largely due to their exceptional cycle stability and rapid charge-discharge capabilities. Central to the advancements in supercapacitor technology is the development of anode electrode materials, which play a critical role in augmenting the energy storage capacity and efficiency of these devices. This article explores the synthesis and engineering strategies of nanocomposites, which are at the forefront of anode electrode material innovation. These nanocomposites, under their unique structural and compositional attributes, offer enhanced electrical conductivity and electrochemical properties, thereby significantly improving the performance of supercapacitors. However, despite the promising advances, there remain substantial challenges that need to be addressed. These include issues related to the scalability of production processes, the durability of materials under operational stress, and the optimization of the nanocomposites for specific applications. The article concludes by underscoring the need for ongoing research and development efforts aimed at overcoming these hurdles, which will be crucial for the realization of next-generation supercapacitors that meet the growing performance demands of electric vehicles and other applications.

Truncation or proteolysis of α-synuclein in Parkinsonism.

Posttranslational modifications of α-synuclein, such as truncation or abnormal proteolysis, are implicated in Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), and multiple system atrophy (MSA). A key focus of this article includes the proteases responsible for inducing truncation, the specific sites susceptible to truncation, and the resultant influence of these truncated species on the seeding and aggregation of endogenous α-synuclein. We also shed light on the unique structural attributes of these truncated species, and how these modifications can lead to distinctive forms of synucleinopathies. In addition, we explore the comparative toxic potentials of various α-synuclein species. An extensive analysis of available evidence of truncated α-synuclein species in human-synucleinopathy brains is also provided. Lastly, we delve into the detrimental impact of truncated species on key cellular structures such as the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum. Our article discusses enzymes involved in α-synuclein truncation, including 20S proteasome, cathepsins, asparagine endopeptidase, caspase-1, calpain-1, neurosin/kallikrein-6, matrix metalloproteinase-1/-3, and plasmin. Truncation patterns impact α-synuclein aggregation - C-terminal truncation accelerates aggregation with larger truncations correlated with shortened aggregation lag times. N-terminal truncation affects aggregation differently based on the truncation location. C-terminally truncated α-synuclein forms compact, shorter fibrils compared to the full-length (FL) protein. N-terminally truncated monomers form fibrils similar in length to FL α-synuclein. Truncated forms show distinct fibril morphologies, increased β-sheet structures, and greater protease resistance. Misfolded α-synuclein can adopt various conformations, leading to unique aggregates and distinct synucleinopathies. Fibrils, with prion-like transmission, are potentially more toxic than oligomers, though this is still debated. Different α-synuclein variants with N- and C-terminal truncations, namely 5-140, 39-140, 65-140, 66-140, 68-140, 71-140, 1-139, 1-135, 1-133, 1-122, 1-119, 1-115, 1-110, and 1-103 have been found in PD, DLB, and MSA patients' brains. In Parkinsonism, excess misfolded α-synuclein overwhelms the proteasome degradation system, resulting in truncated protein production and accumulation in the mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum.

3D Printed Graphene and Graphene/Polymer Composites for Multifunctional Applications.

Three-dimensional (3D) printing, alternatively known as additive manufacturing, is a transformative technology enabling precise, customized, and efficient manufacturing of components with complex structures. It revolutionizes traditional processes, allowing rapid prototyping, cost-effective production, and intricate designs. The 3D printed graphene-based materials combine graphene's exceptional properties with additive manufacturing's versatility, offering precise control over intricate structures with enhanced functionalities. To gain comprehensive insights into the development of 3D printed graphene and graphene/polymer composites, this review delves into their intricate fabrication methods, unique structural attributes, and multifaceted applications across various domains. Recent advances in printable materials, apparatus characteristics, and printed structures of typical 3D printing techniques for graphene and graphene/polymer composites are addressed, including extrusion methods (direct ink writing and fused deposition modeling), photopolymerization strategies (stereolithography and digital light processing) and powder-based techniques. Multifunctional applications in energy storage, physical sensor, stretchable conductor, electromagnetic interference shielding and wave absorption, as well as bio-applications are highlighted. Despite significant advancements in 3D printed graphene and its polymer composites, innovative studies are still necessary to fully unlock their inherent capabilities.

Platycodonis Radix Alleviates LPS-Induced Lung Inflammation through Modulation of TRPA1 Channels

Platycodonis Radix (PR), a widely consumed herbal food, and its bioactive constituents, platycodins, have therapeutic potential for lung inflammation. Transient Receptor Potential Ankyrin 1 (TRPA1), which is essential for the control of inflammation, may be involved in the development of inflammation in the lungs. The aim of this study was to determine the TRPA1-targeted effects of PR against pulmonary inflammation and to investigate the affinity of PR constituents for TRPA1 and their potential mechanisms of action. Using a C57BL/6J mouse lipopolysaccharides (LPS) intratracheal instillation pneumonia model and advanced analytical techniques (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS/MS, molecular docking, immuno-fluorescence), five platycodins were isolated from PR, and the interaction between these platycodins and hTRPA1 was verified. Additionally, we analyzed the impact of platycodins on LPS-induced TRPA1 expression and calcium influx in BEAS-2B cells. The results indicated that PR treatment significantly reduced the severity of LPS-triggered inflammation in the mouse model. Interestingly, there was a mild increase in the expression of TRPA1 caused by PR in healthy mice. Among five isolated platycodins identified in the PR extract, Platycodin D3 (PD3) showed the highest affinity for hTRPA1. The interaction between platycodins and TRPA1 was verified through molecular docking methods, highlighting the significance of the S5–S6 pore-forming loop in TRPA1 and the unique structural attributes of platycodins. Furthermore, PD3 significantly reduced LPS-induced TRPA1 expression and calcium ion influx in BEAS-2B cells, substantiating its own role as an effective TRPA1 modulator. In conclusion, PR and platycodins, especially PD3, show promise as potential lung inflammation therapeutics. Further research should explore the precise mechanisms by which platycodins modulate TRPA1 and their broader therapeutic potential.

Binder- and conductive additive-free Ga2O3 nanowires as a self-healing anode for lithium storage

High-capacity anode materials have stimulated much attention to developing high-performance lithium-ion batteries. However, high-capacity anode materials commonly suffer from the pulverization matter that greatly hinders their practical applications, especially in terms of the high proportion of active materials. In this work, a Ga2O3 nanowire electrode is synthesized by thermal evaporation and immediately used as an anode without the aid of binders and conductive additives. The 3D interconnected architecture of the Ga2O3 nanowire electrode shortens lithium diffusion lengths and expedites reaction kinetics. The Ga2O3 nanowires exhibit high elasticity and a self-healing ability which is inherited from metallic Ga formed during the electrochemical transition process, thus circumventing the formidable pulverization issue to a certain extent. Benefiting from the unique structural, mechanical, and chemical attributes, the as-grown Ga2O3 nanowire electrode gives a high initial lithiation capacity of 1462 mAh g−1 under a current density of 0.1 ​A ​g−1. It delivers good cyclic stability with a reversible capacity of 445 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.5 ​A ​g−1. Furthermore, the investigation of lithium storage behaviors indicates the high rate capability of Ga2O3 nanowires. This paper contributes to understanding binder- and conductive additive-free electrodes consisting of high-capacity active materials from various viewpoints.

The effect of endocrine-disrupting chemicals on placental development.

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) or endocrine disruptors are substances that are either naturally occurring or artificial and are released into the natural environment. Humans are exposed to EDCs through ingestion, inhalation, and skin contact. Many everyday household items, such as plastic bottles and containers, the liners of metal food cans, detergents, flame retardants, food, gadgets, cosmetics, and pesticides, contain endocrine disruptors. Each hormone has a unique chemical makeup and structural attributes. The way that endocrine hormones connect to receptors is described as a "lock and key" mechanism, with each hormone serving as the key (lock). This mechanism is enabled by the complementary shape of receptors to their hormone, which allows the hormone to activate the receptors. EDCs are described as exogenous chemicals or compounds that have a negative impact on organisms' health by interacting with the functioning of the endocrine system. EDCs are associated with cancer, cardiovascular risk, behavioural disorders, autoimmune abnormalities, and reproductive disorders. EDCs exposure in humans is highly harmful during critical life stages. Nonetheless, the effect of EDCs on the placenta is often underestimated. The placenta is especially sensitive to EDCs due to its abundance of hormone receptors. In this review, we evaluated the most recent data on the effects of EDCs on placental development and function, including heavy metals, plasticizers, pesticides, flame retardants, UV filters and preservatives. The EDCs under evaluation have evidence from human biomonitoring and are found in nature. Additionally, this study indicates important knowledge gaps that will direct future research on the topic.

Preclinical characterization of pirtobrutinib, a highly selective, noncovalent (reversible) BTK inhibitor

AbstractBruton tyrosine kinase (BTK), a nonreceptor tyrosine kinase, is a major therapeutic target for B-cell–driven malignancies. However, approved covalent BTK inhibitors (cBTKis) are associated with treatment limitations because of off-target side effects, suboptimal oral pharmacology, and development of resistance mutations (eg, C481) that prevent inhibitor binding. Here, we describe the preclinical profile of pirtobrutinib, a potent, highly selective, noncovalent (reversible) BTK inhibitor. Pirtobrutinib binds BTK with an extensive network of interactions to BTK and water molecules in the adenosine triphosphate binding region and shows no direct interaction with C481. Consequently, pirtobrutinib inhibits both BTK and BTK C481 substitution mutants in enzymatic and cell-based assays with similar potencies. In differential scanning fluorimetry studies, BTK bound to pirtobrutinib exhibited a higher melting temperature than cBTKi-bound BTK. Pirtobrutinib, but not cBTKis, prevented Y551 phosphorylation in the activation loop. These data suggest that pirtobrutinib uniquely stabilizes BTK in a closed, inactive conformation. Pirtobrutinib inhibits BTK signaling and cell proliferation in multiple B-cell lymphoma cell lines, and significantly inhibits tumor growth in human lymphoma xenografts in vivo. Enzymatic profiling showed that pirtobrutinib was highly selective for BTK in >98% of the human kinome, and in follow-up cellular studies pirtobrutinib retained >100-fold selectivity over other tested kinases. Collectively, these findings suggest that pirtobrutinib represents a novel BTK inhibitor with improved selectivity and unique pharmacologic, biophysical, and structural attributes with the potential to treat B-cell–driven cancers with improved precision and tolerability. Pirtobrutinib is being tested in phase 3 clinical studies for a variety of B-cell malignancies.