bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Principles for coding associative memories in a compact neural network
Authors: Pritz Christian , Itskovits Eyal , Bokman Eduard , Ruach Rotem , Gritsenko Vladimir , Nelken Tal , Menasherof Mai , Azulay Aharon , Zaslaver Alon
Published: May 2023

A major goal in neuroscience is to elucidate the principles by which memories are stored in a neural network. Here, we have systematically studied how four types of associative memories (short- and long-term memories, each as positive and negative associations) are encoded within the compact neural network of Caenorhabditis elegans worms. Interestingly, sensory neurons were primarily involved in coding short-term, but not long-term, memories, and individual sensory neurons could be assigned to coding either the conditioned stimulus or the experience valence (or both). Moreover, when considering the collective activity of the sensory neurons, the specific training experiences could be decoded. Interneurons integrated the modulated sensory inputs and a simple linear combination model identified the experience-specific modulated communication routes. The widely distributed memory suggests that integrated network plasticity, rather than changes to individual neurons, underlies the fine behavioral plasticity. This comprehensive study reveals basic memory-coding principles and highlights the central roles of sensory neurons in memory formation.
Limitations of principal components in quantitative genetic association models for human studies
Authors: Yao Yiqi , Ochoa Alejandro
Published: May 2023

Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and the Linear Mixed-effects Model (LMM), sometimes in combination, are the most common genetic association models. Previous PCA-LMM comparisons give mixed results, unclear guidance, and have several limitations, including not varying the number of principal components (PCs), simulating simple population structures, and inconsistent use of real data and power evaluations. We evaluate PCA and LMM both varying number of PCs in realistic genotype and complex trait simulations including admixed families, subpopulation trees, and real multiethnic human datasets with simulated traits. We find that LMM without PCs usually performs best, with the largest effects in family simulations and real human datasets and traits without environment effects. Poor PCA performance on human datasets is driven by large numbers of distant relatives more than the smaller number of closer relatives. While PCA was known to fail on family data, we report strong effects of family relatedness in genetically diverse human datasets, not avoided by pruning close relatives. Environment effects driven by geography and ethnicity are better modeled with LMM including those labels instead of PCs. This work better characterizes the severe limitations of PCA compared to LMM in modeling the complex relatedness structures of multiethnic human data for association studies.
Gestão do varejo lojista em shopping center: um estudo do Plaza Shopping em Niterói
Authors: Fontanillas Carlos Navarro , Cruz Eduardo Picanço Cruz , Leão Mauricio de Souza , De Araújo Fabio Francisco
Published: May 2023

O mercado de shopping Center vem apresentando nos últimos anos fortes registros de crescimento e consolidação no Brasil. Consequentemente, o número de empreendimentos e o volume de vendas estão crescendo, contribuindo para o desenvolvimento do varejo brasileiro. Grandes redes de varejo, como lojas de departamentos, supermercados, e redes de franquia estão se espalhando por todas as capitais no país. Em contrapartida, em janeiro de 2009, A CONECS (Conselho nacional de Entidades de comércio em Shopping Center), através de uma pesquisa de campo, apontou que o relacionamento e o grau de satisfação entre lojistas e empreendedores de shoppings centers de todo o país está insuficiente. O dado mais relevante foi referente ao tempo médio de ocupação dos lojistas nos empreendimentos. Segunda a pesquisa os pequenos e médios empresários, que possuem lojas de pequeno porte, não conseguem permanecer por mais de 05 anos nos shoppings. Diante do exposto, esta pesquisa tem como principal objetivo verificar se as práticas de gestão aplicadas por pequenas lojas estão competitivas, comparadas a médias e grandes lojas. Para isso, foi feita uma pesquisa de campo, em que os gerentes de lojas de pequeno, médio e grande porte, situado no Plaza Shopping Niterói, relataram como está sendo feita a gestão dos seus negócios.
Milk Producers Perceptions on Constraints in Milk Production in Maharashtra State
Authors: Narnaware G. N. , Chandrakar M. R. , Choudhary V. K. , Jaiswal Payal
Published: May 2023

The study on constraints faced by farmers in the operation and management of dairy activities in milk production was conducted in the Vidarbha and Marathwada region of Maharashtra State for the year 2022-23. These regions of Maharashtra State were purposively selected due to low milk production and productivity compared to other regions of the State. Data were randomly collected from 410 milk producers of Bhandara, Yavatmal, Nanded and Latur districts of Vidarbha and Marathwada region of Maharashtra State. About 52.20 percent of milk producers belongs to the small, 30.98 percent to the medium and 6.63 percent to thelarge herd size category of milk producers. Garret’s ranking method was used to priorities the constraints. The serious constraints perceived by the milk producers were the shortage of quality feed and fodder round the year, high cost of concentrates,unavailability of veterinary facilities, unavailability of labour, lack of knowledge on improved management practices, shortage of green fodder round the year, unstable pricing policy, inadequate credit facilities, lack of information ongovernment scheme and marketing of milk and milk products.
Adoption of Recommended Production Technologies of Soybean by Farmers of Dharwad District of Karnataka, India
Authors: Vineeth H. T. , Reddy Shashank L. , Kumar Felix Nikith , Madhu D. M.
Published: May 2023

The study was conducted in Dharwad, Hubli and Kalaghatagi taluks of Dharwad district of Karnataka state during 2020-21 with a sample size of 150 soybean farmers. The “Ex-post facto” research design was employed for the study. The data was elicited through personal interview method. There was about 8 per cent of land cultivated with DSb-21 during 2017-18 in Dharwad district, gradually it has reduced to 2 per cent during 2020-2021. About 64.00 per cent had medium level of adoption about recommended cultivation practices of soybean, whereas, only 9.33 and 26.66 per cent of the soybean farmers belonged to high and low level of adoption category, respectively. The results revealed that the farmers had complete knowledge and adoption of recommended variety (Dsb-21), while 86.67 per cent of the farmers adopted recommended sowing time in the kharif season. Further, 85.33 per cent of the farmers adopted spacing as recommended and 80.67 per cent of them have adopted recommended seed rate of 25kg/acre. The study concluded that 39.33 per cent of the farmers follow seed treatment and only 27.33 per cent of them adopted seed inoculation with rhizobium culture. Further 80.66 per cent of the farmers adopted application of FYM as recommended but only 37.33 per cent of the farmers have adopted chemical fertilizer application as recommended. With respect to weedicide application 41.33 per cent of the farmers adopted and cent per cent of the farmers had adopted intercultural operation (hoeing). About 48.00 per cent of the farmers adopted pest and disease management as recommended.
Critical Evaluation of the Role of Lycopene on Reproduction of Male Wistar Rats Exposed to Dimethoate
Authors: Odeh Mary , Amachree Alice , Obulor Adetutu Olubunmi , Orlu Eme Efioanwan
Published: May 2023

Aim: This study was aimed at evaluating the role of Lycopene on reproduction of male Wistar rats exposed to Dimethoate.

Experimental Design: A completely randomized experimental design using standard methods for analysis. 

Location and Duration of Study: This study was carried out in the Animal house, Department of Animal and Environmental Biology of Rivers State University, Nkpolu-Oroworukwo Port Harcourt, Nigeria. GPS 4o47'50''N 6o58'49''E. This study lasted for 21days. 

Methodology: Thirty male rats were randomly selected into five (5) groups A-E (6 animals per group). Groups B, C and D were gavaged 10, 20, 30 mg/kg/bw/day of dimethoate respectively, and co-administered Lycopene at 10mg/animal daily. Group E were administered 30mg/kg/bw/day of dimethoate without Lycopene.  All animals were allowed access to cool clean water and standard rat pellet ad libitum. Twenty-four hours to the termination of the experiment, feed was withdrawn from the animals. Blood samples were collected by ocular puncture into heparinized tubes for hormonal analysis. Hormones such as Testosterone, Progesterone, estradiol, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were analysed based on the manufacturer’s instruction using Randox Monza assay kit. For Histopathological analysis of the testis, 0.5g of the testis was fixed in 10% formalin and sectioned with a digital Microtome (AO spencer No. 820) at 5μm thick. Histological sections were mounted on clean glass slides and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E). The slides were viewed at X400 magnification (modified Orlu, 2014). Statistical analysis was carried out using one-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and expressed as their respective units. Where significant differences were found, Pair-wise comparisons conducted with Tukey test using SPSS 22 software.

Results: It was observed that the level of all hormone considered decreased significantly with an increase in Dimethoate exposure despite the administration of lycopene. However, administration of dimethoate only resulted in a significant (p<0.05) reduction in the concentration of all hormones compared with groups given lycopene. The massive cellular degeneration observed in the seminiferous epithelium of experimental animals exposed to higher concentrations (20 and 30mg/kg/bw/day) of Dimethoate is indicative of a targeted action of the pesticide on male reproductive organ. The antioxidant property of Lycopene is clearly visible in testicular cross section of animals in groups given lycopene as gradual regeneration of both mitotic and meiotic spermatogenic elements were evidence.
Role of Aspergillus niger in Solubilizing P in Togo Rock Phosphate during Composting with Different Organic Wastes
Authors: Nyamedi Ivy Mamle
Published: May 2023

The immobilization and mineralization processes carried out by soil microorganisms have a significant role in controlling the availability of phosphorus in soil. A class of helpful microorganisms known as phosphate solubilizing microbes are able to hydrolyze insoluble organic and insoluble inorganic phosphorus compounds into soluble P (phosphorus) form that is readily taken by plants. The objective of this study was to evaluate the role of different organic waste and Aspergillus niger in solubilizing P in Togo rock phosphate during composting.  Composts were prepared using rice straw and citrus waste that had been inoculated with Aspergillus niger and supplemented with rock phosphate. The results showed that co-inoculation system with PSF (i.e. Aspergillus niger) provided optimum condition for P solubilization.
Vaginal Atresia, Left Unicornuate Unicollis Uterus, Left Pelvic Ectopic Single Kidney with Right Inguinal Hernia Containing Ovary in a 14 y Old Female: A Rare MRKHS Variant
Authors: Eldeen Wael Alaa , Elshimy Khalid , Elbatarny Akram , Hashsih Amel , Eldessouky Nagy
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Vaginal atresia is a component of Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome (MRKHS), which includes variable Mullerian duct abnormalities with normal secondary sexual characteristics. Associated renal anomalies are present in about 30% of cases(1)

Objective: To present a rare variant of MRKHS in a14-y old female with a right ovary in a right inguinal hernia and renal anomalies managed bysigmoid vaginoplasty.

Case Description: A 14-year-old girl presented with primary amenorrhea and cyclic abdominal painone year before, pelviabdominal swelling, right inguinal hernia, and well-developed secondary sexual characteristics with a single introital opening. Investigations revealed a left ectopic pelvic single kidney, hematometra with left hematosalpinx and right-sided inguinal hernia containing the right ovary with a left ovarian cyst. The first procedure included diagnostic laparoscopy and cystoscopy with the combined repair of the right-sided inguinal hernia and laparoscopic drilling of the left ovarian chocolate cyst. The patient was diagnosed with unicornuate unicollis uterus, left hematosalpinx with complete vaginal atresia associated with a left ectopic pelvic single kidney. One month later, sigmoid vaginoplasty was done. At the 3-month follow-up, there was a full-thickness neovaginal prolapse which was managed surgically by resection.

Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first description of this variant of MRKH syndrome association, includingvaginal atresia, left unicornuate unicollis uterus with ipsilateral left single pelvic ectopic kidney with right-sided inguinal hernia containing right ovary, in the literature. Renal assessment in cases of vaginal atresia and other mullerian anomalies is mandatory for detecting and managing such anomalies and preserving renal function. Anatomical and functional assessment of the urogenital system is mandatory, and multiple modalities can be integrated to get proper results. Diagnostic laparoscopy and cystoscopy give invaluable information in these cases and can add therapeutic aids.
Experimental Investigation of Electric Arc Welding Variables on the Corrosion Behaviour of Steel Welds in Acidic Medium
Authors: Olabisi O. I. , Abiola O. S. , Olaniyi D.
Published: May 2023

This work investigated the effects of power input and welding speed on the corrosion rate of low carbon steel welds in one molar tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid (H2SO4) solution. Locally available low carbon steel rod (Ø12mm) used for this study was cut into twenty four samples Ø12mm × 50mm with the aid of hacksaw for both plane face and double V shape. The samples were further processed through machining to get twelve samples for plane face and double-V edge shape respectively. Electric arc welding was used for welding the samples to produce six welded joints for each of plane face and double V shape at different power input and welding speed.  Weight loss method was employed to evaluate the corrosion rate of the welded joints in the tested medium. It was discovered from the study that welding speed and power input have significant roles to play in either lowering or increasing the corrosion rate of the low carbon steel welded joints in one molar tetraoxosulphate (VI) acid solution. The plane face and double-V edge low carbon steel welded joints corrodes less at power input and welding speed of 16.5kW and 12cm/min respectively. Their corrosion rate is more aggressive at higher power input and welding speed.
The Effectiveness of TiO2 Thermal Barrier Coating in Protecting IN738 LC Super Alloy in an Atmosphere of Sodium Sulfate and Sodium Chloride Vapor at High Temperature
Authors: Hamood Mahmood Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Increasing the efficiency of work and extending the life of metal equipment, which operates under very harsh conditions, requires making the best complex changes in its crystalline structure and properties. In many of the properties of this equipment as a result of the formation of multi-layered metal and ceramic layers in the surface construction of the ingot, thus increasing the efficiency of the ingot and extending its life. The aluminizing was carried out in the presence of a thermal barrier yttrium oxide at 1000 oC, and the oxidation kinetics of the coated structures was studied at 1050 oC and in an atmosphere of mixture sodium chloride vapor and sodium sulfate.
The Role of Simultaneous Engineering in Reducing Costs and Improving Product Quality - An Applied Study in Wasit State Company for Textile Industries
Authors: Doaim Dr. Sarmad Salman , Tuama Marwah Jumaah , Mohammed Zainab Faiq
Published: May 2023

The current study sought to identify the simultaneous engineering technology activities as an integrated model that helps reduce costs and develop the current product design model according to the customers requirements through the sum of the relative weights. The importance of each component depends on the relationship between the customers requirements and the components functionality. This research aims to show the knowledge foundations of concurrent engineering technology and its importance in achieving competitive advantage and reducing costs.
Physical Model Test for Wave Overtopping for Vertical Seawall with Relatively Steep Bottom Slope for the Impulsive Wave Condition
Authors: Kim Young-Taek , Lee Jong-In
Published: May 2023

Wave overtopping rate is one of the most important design parameters for coastal structures. In this study, the physical model tests for measuring the wave overtopping have been conducted with the foreshore slope in front of the seawall. The bottom seabed for the coastal road area was fabricated at the wave flume for two areas in the East sea areas. The wave overtopping rate was measured for various water depths and wave conditions in each coastal area. In particular, the impulsive wave conditions were compared with the previous research and the similar trends of wave overtopping was observed. It could be known that the effect of foreshore slope was significant and should be concerned for applying theses formula like EurOtop.
Quantitative beam optimization for radiotherapy of peripheral lung lesions: A pilot study in stereotactic body radiotherapy
Authors: Hooshangnejad Hamed , Lee Jina , Bell Leslie , Hales Russell K. , Voong Khinh Ranh , Han‐Oh Sarah , Ding Kai , Farjam Reza
Published: February 2025

Background

To quantify beam optimization for stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) of peripheral lung lesions.

Method

The new beam optimization approach was based on maximizing the therapeutic gain (TG) of the beam set by minimizing the average physical depth of the lesion with respect to the beam's eye view (BEV). The new approach was evaluated by replanning the 25 SBRT lesions retrospectively to assess if a better plan is achievable in all aspects. Difference in 25 Gy isodose line volume (IDLV25 Gy), IDLV20 Gy, IDLV15 Gy, IDLV10 Gy, and IDLV5 Gy between the two plan cohorts were calculated as a measure of plan size and fitted in a linear regression model against the changes in the lesion depth with respect to the BEV to assess the relationship between the changes in the treatment depth and that of the plan size.

Results

Beam optimization achieved a better plan in all cases by lowering the depth of treatment with an average of % 20.03 ± 12.30 (3.66%–45.78%). As the depth of treatment decreases, the size of the plan also decreases. We observed a reduction of % 4.64 ± 4.55 (0.02%–21.58%, p < 3.8 × 10−5), %5.16 ± 5.54 (0.03%‐24.68%, p < 0.005), %6.46 ± 6.95 (−1.35%‐29.05%, p < 0.009), %12.83 ± 9.06 (0.89%–37.65%, p < 0.0001), and %14.01 ± 9.87 (1.43%–41.84%, p < 4.5 × 10−6) in IDLV25 Gy, IDLV20 Gy, IDLV15 Gy, IDLV10 Gy, and IDLV5 Gy, respectively.

Conclusion

Physical depth of the lesion with respect to the BEV is inversely proportional to the TG of a beam‐set and can be used as a robust and standard metric to select an appropriate beam‐set for SBRT of the peripheral lung lesions. Further evaluation warrants the utility of such concept in routine clinical use.
A knowledge‐based planning model to identify fraction‐reduction opportunities in brain stereotactic radiotherapy
Authors: McCarthy Shane , St. Clair William , Pokhrel Damodar
Published: February 2025

Objective

To develop and validate a HyperArc‐based RapidPlan (HARP) model for three‐fraction brain stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT) plans to then use to replan previously treated five‐fraction SRT plans. Demonstrating the possibility of reducing the number of fractions while achieving acceptable organs‐at‐risk (OAR) doses with improved target biological effective dose (BED) to brain lesions.

Methods

Thirty‐nine high‐quality clinical three‐fraction HyperArc brain SRT plans (24–27 Gy) were used to train the HARP model, with a separate 10 plans used to validate its effectiveness. Fifty‐eight five‐fraction HyperArc brain SRT plans (30–40 Gy) attempted to be retrospectively replanned for three fractions scheme using the HARP model. All planning was done within the Eclipse treatment planning system for a TrueBeam LINAC with a 6 MV‐FFF beam and Millenium 120 MLCs and dosimetric parameters were analyzed per brain SRT protocol.

Results

The HyperArc RapidPlan model was successfully trained and tested, with the validation set demonstrating a statistically significant (p = 0.01) increase in GTV D100% from 28.5 ± 0.7 Gy to 29.4 ± 0.6 Gy from the original to RapidPlan plans. No statistically significant differences were found for the OAR metrics (p > 0.05). The five‐fraction replans were successful for 20 of the 58 five‐fraction brain SRT plans. For those 20 successful brain SRT plans, the maximum doses to OAR were clinically acceptable with a three‐fraction scheme including an average V18Gy to Brain‐PTV of 9.9 ± 5.9 cc. Additionally, the replanned five‐fraction brain SRT plans achieved a higher BED to the tumors, increasing from a GTV D100% of 52.9 ± 4.5 Gy for the original five‐fraction plans to 57.3 ± 3.1 Gy for the three‐fraction RapidPlan plans. All RapidPlan plans were generated automatically, without manual input, in under 20 min.

Conclusions

The HARP model developed in this research was used to successfully identify select five‐fraction plans that were able to be reduced to three‐fraction SRT treatments while achieving clinically acceptable OAR doses and improved target BED. This tool encourages a fast and standardized way to provide physicians with more options when choosing the necessary fractionation scheme(s) for HyperArc SRT to single‐ and multiple brain lesions.
Machine Learning‐Based Exploration of Dopants in Li7La3Zr2O12 in Reference to Lithium‐Ion Conductivity
Authors: Sharma Rahulkumar Rajkumar , Venkatkrishna Vatsal , Balakrishna Varun , Ganguly Somenath
Published: February 2025

A detailed evaluation of various parameters that influence the lithium (Li)‐ion conductivity in Li7La3Zr2O12 is undertaken based on data from the literature. In particular, the importance of the dopant on the Li site, the ionic radius of the dopant, and the relative density of the compound are evident. The relative density can only be obtained from experimental measurements, which restrict the evaluation of unexplored dopants and their associated stoichiometry. The element embedding is utilized to generate 200D element representations that can obviate the need for hard‐to‐obtain descriptors. Different machine learning methods are evaluated for the prediction of superionicity of the compound for unknown dopants on the Li site and the F1 score of 0.81 using the K‐nearest neighbor classifier. Based on this analysis, new dopants and associated stoichiometry are suggested.
Spatially Gradient Properties in High‐Frequency Ferrites via Single‐Mode Microwave Processing
Authors: Mandal Dipika , Greve David W. , Wewer Lauren , Bracken Christopher S. , Ohodnicki Paul R.
Published: February 2025

Herein, spatial tailoring of microstructure, magnetic, and mechanical properties in high‐frequency Ni–Zn ferrite toroidal core over cm‐length scales via an efficient microwave (MW) processing technique is successfully achieved. Depending on gradient processing conditions, one region in a sample (R1) is more efficiently being heated than the other region (R2) due to the spatial variation in losses. The controlled variation of grain sizes (D), saturation magnetization (MS), and microhardness traverses from 0.42 to 2.25 μm, 28 to 76 emu g−1, and 84 to 162 HV, respectively from the R2 to R1. Moreover, the experimentally observed spatially gradient ferrite processing in a single‐mode electric (E)‐field MW cavity is validated with simulation results using finite element modeling. This concept of functionally graded material properties can be an interesting and feasible pathway toward improving performances of a wide range of functional ceramics and related devices, including soft magnetic ferrite materials in power magnetic devices such as transformers and inductors.
Fabrication of Compositionally Graded NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Laminated Composites Through Hot Roll Bonding and its Characterization
Authors: Sinha Soumya , Maji Bikas Chandra , Singh Ram Niwas
Published: February 2025

The present study reports for the first time, development of a novel technique to fabricate compositionally graded monolithic NiTi shape memory alloy (SMA) laminated hybrid composites by joining two compositionally different equi‐atomic Ni50Ti50 and Ni‐rich Ni51Ti49 SMAs. A two‐step fabrication methodology involving a combination of spark plasma sintering (SPS)/diffusion bonding at 1050 °C followed by hot roll bonding (HRB) at 900 °C is adopted to produce three‐layer SMA laminated composites in four different architectures, which can be utilized for manufacturing passive damping devices. Microstructural characterization clearly shows that HRB is capable of producing a joining interface free from any oxides/voids having excellent metallurgical bonding. The measurement of martensitic transformation characterized through differential scanning calorimetry of these NiTi SMA composites reveals that in spite of forming a monolithic SMA composite material after HRB, the individual NiTi SMA layers still preserve their individual transformation characteristics. Tensile tests carried out on HRB NiTi SMA composites at ambient temperature demonstrate that laminated NiTi SMA hybrid composite comprising top and bottom layers of Ni51Ti49 SMA and middle layer of Ni50Ti50 SMA (in equal thickness proportion) exhibits the best pseudoelastic strain recovery, which can be further improved by aging treatment at 425 °C for 15 min.
Infrared Photodetectors Based on Silver Chalcogenide Colloidal Quantum Dots
Authors: Pi Huihui , Li Xitao , Xie Lingling , Cui Yanxia , Jing Lihong , Chen Bingkun , Wang Yongtian , Rogach Andrey L.
Published: February 2025

Infrared (IR) photodetectors play a crucial role in various applications, including autonomous driving, optical communication, and biomedical imaging. Silver chalcogenide colloidal quantum dots (CQDs), namely silver sulfide (Ag2S), silver selenide (Ag2Se) and silver telluride (Ag2Te) have emerged as competitive materials for the next generation of IR photodetectors due to several advantages, such as tunable bandgap, solution processing ability, as well as their low‐cost and environment‐friendly syntheses. This review considers the synthesis methods and the optical properties of silver chalcogenide CQDs. It is discussed that how the performance of IR photodetectors based on silver chalcogenide CQDs can be improved by means of the ligand exchange; making heterostructures active layers that combine CQDs with metal halide perovskites, polymers, and silicon; optimization of interface transport layers, and by overall design of the device structure. Performance parameters such as responsivity and detectivity of photodetectors based on silver chalcogenide are compared, with those based on widely studied IR PbS and HgTe CQDs. Finally, existing challenges and prospects of the real‐world applications of IR photodetectors based on silver chalcogenide CQDs are considered.
RONIN/HCF1‐TFEB Axis Protects Against D‐Galactose‐Induced Cochlear Hair Cell Senescence Through Autophagy Activation
Authors: Wei Yongjie , Zhang Yuhua , Cao Wei , Cheng Nan , Xiao Yun , Zhu Yongjun , Xu Yan , Zhang Lei , Guo Lingna , Song Jun , Sha Su‐hua , Shao Buwei , Ma Fang , Yang Jingwen , Ying Zheng , He Zuhong , Chai Renjie , Fang Qiaojun , Yang Jianming
Published: February 2025

Age‐related hearing loss is characterized by senescent inner ear hair cells (HCs) and reduced autophagy. Despite the improved understanding of these processes, detailed molecular mechanisms underlying cochlear HC senescence remain unclear. Transcription Factor EB (TFEB), a key regulator of genes associated with autophagy and lysosomes, crucially affects aging‐related illnesses. However, intricate regulatory networks that influence TFEB activity remain to be thoroughly elucidated. The findings revealed that RONIN (THAP11), through its interaction with host cell factor C1 (HCF1/HCFC1), modulated the transcriptional activity of Tfeb, thus contributing to the mitigation (D‐galatactose [D‐gal]) senescent HC loss. Specifically, RONIN overexpression improved autophagy levels and lysosomal activity and attenuated changes associated with the senescence of HCs triggered by D‐gal. These findings highlight the possibility of using RONIN as a viable therapeutic target to ameliorate presbycusis by enhancing the TFEB function.
NAT10 Promotes Gastric Cancer Liver Metastasis by Modulation of M2 Macrophage Polarization and Metastatic Tumor Cell Hepatic Adhesion
Authors: Chen Chen , Wang Zhangding , Lin Qingfeng , Li Mengmeng , Xu Lei , Fu Yao , Zhao Xiaoya , Ma Zhuang , Xu Jiawen , Zhou Shimeng , Zhang Mingyue , Qian Yun , Bao Linsen , Wang Bo , Wang Meng , Ding Qingqing , Wang Qiang , Wang Shouyu
Published: February 2025

The relationship between patterns of RNA modifications and gastric cancer (GC) liver metastasis (GCLM) remains unclear. Here, by single‐cell sequencing, clinical sample analysis, and mouse model studies, an abnormal increase in the expression of the RNA acetyltransferase N‐acetyltransferase 10 (NAT10) in liver metastatic GC cells is identified. NAT10‐mediated N4‐acetylcytidine modification of CXCL2 and KLF5 mRNA increases their stability. Then, secreted CXCL2 is found to promote the infiltration and polarization of M2‐like macrophages to produce oncostatin M, which transcriptionally activates NAT10 expression via STAT3 signaling. In addition, organoid models confirm that NAT10 promotes the adhesion of GC cells to hepatocytes. Mechanistically, KLF5 transcriptionally activates ITGαV, facilitating GC cell attachment to hepatocytes. Intriguingly, high expression of NAT10/KLF5 axis is associated with poor prognosis of GC patients and targeting this axis significantly reduces GCLM in preclinical murine models. Collectively, these findings suggest the clinical significance of NAT10 in developing targeted therapies for GC patients with liver metastasis.
Multimodal Artificial Intelligence‐Based Virtual Biopsy for Diagnosing Abdominal Lavage Cytology‐Positive Gastric Cancer
Authors: Ding Ping'an , Yang Jiaxuan , Guo Honghai , Wu Jiaxiang , Wu Haotian , Li Tongkun , Gu Renjun , Zhang Lilong , He Jinchen , Yang Peigang , Tian Yuan , Meng Ning , Li Xiaolong , Guo Zhenjiang , Meng Lingjiao , Zhao Qun
Published: February 2025

Gastric cancer with peritoneal dissemination remains a significant clinical challenge due to its poor prognosis and difficulty in early detection. This study introduces a multimodal artificial intelligence‐based risk stratification assessment (RSA) model, integrating radiomic and clinical data to predict peritoneal lavage cytology‐positive (GC‐CY1) in gastric cancer patients. The RSA model is trained and validated across retrospective, external, and prospective cohorts. In the training cohort, the RSA model achieved an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.866, outperforming traditional clinical and radiomic feature models. External validation cohorts confirmed its robustness, with AUC values of 0.883 and 0.823 for predicting peritoneal metastasis and recurrence, respectively. In a prospective validation involving 152 patients, the model maintained superior predictive performance (AUC = 0.835). The RSA model also demonstrated significant clinical benefits by effectively identifying high‐risk patients likely to benefit from specific treatments, such as paclitaxel‐based conversion therapy. These findings suggest that the RSA model offers a reliable, non‐invasive diagnostic tool for gastric cancer, capable of improving early detection and treatment outcomes. Further prospective studies are warranted to explore its full clinical potential.
Targeting the Adenosine‐Mediated Metabolic Immune Checkpoint with Engineered Probiotic for Enhanced Chemo‐Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Jinhui , Wang Jing , Yu Zhijie , Wen Hongyu , Zhao Chensi , Zhong Jiayong , Xiao Chuanle , Li Yingqiu , Xu Jianqiao , Wang Jinquan , Mao Zong‐Wan , Xia Wei
Published: February 2025

Immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment by leveraging the patient's immune system, yet its efficacy is often hampered by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Adenosine, a key player in this milieu, suppresses immune cell activity via cAMP signaling. Here, an innovative strategy to remodel the TME using a genetically engineered strain of Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 that expresses adenosine deaminase on its surface under hypoxic conditions is presented. This engineered probiotic targets tumors, converts immunosuppressive adenosine to inosine, and enhances anti‐tumor immune responses. In vivo, the engineered probiotic significantly improved immune cell infiltration and demonstrated synergistic effects with low‐dose doxorubicin in both subcutaneous and orthotopic mouse colorectal cancer model. Furthermore, the engineered probiotic modulated the TME, promoting a shift from M2‐like to M1‐like macrophages and increasing effector T cell populations. These findings highlight the potential of using engineered probiotics for metabolic modulation of the TME, offering a novel approach for enhancing cancer immunotherapy.
(Apo)Lipoprotein Profiling with Multi‐Omics Analysis Identified Medium‐HDL‐Targeting PSRC1 with Therapeutic Potential for Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Li Yingmei , Wang Sihan , Liu Ling , Cai Hao , Huang Yacan , Gao Mingjing , Zhang Xiaogang , Wu Qingqing , Qiu Gaokun
Published: February 2025

Identification of (apo)lipoprotein subclasses causally underpinning atherosclerosis may lead to identification of novel drug targets for treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). In this study, observational and genetic associations between (apo)lipoprotein profile and carotid intima‐media thickness‐assessed atherosclerosis, and risks of coronary artery disease (CAD) and ischemic stroke (IS) are assessed, using data from the UK Biobank study, with further exploration of potential drug target for these two ASCVD subtypes through multi‐omics analysis integrating genetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic data. Cholesteryl ester content in medium high‐density lipoprotein causally protective of atherosclerosis is identified, plus a target gene, PSRC1, with therapeutic potential for CAD, but not IS, supported by consistent evidence from multi‐omics layers of data, which also reveals that such therapeutic potential may be through downregulation of circulating proteins including TRP1, GRNs, and Pla2g12b, and upregulation of Neo1. The results provide strong evidence as well as mechanistic clues of PSRC1’s therapeutic potential for CAD.
High‐Fidelity Computational Microscopy via Feature‐Domain Phase Retrieval
Authors: Zhang Shuhe , Pan An , Sun Hongbo , Tan Yidong , Cao Liangcai
Published: February 2025

Computational microscopy enhances the space‐bandwidth product and corrects aberrations for high‐fidelity imaging by reconstructing complex optical wavefronts. Phase retrieval, a core technique in computational microscopy, faces challenges maintaining consistency between physical and real‐world imaging formation, as physical models idealize real phenomena. The discrepancy between ideal and actual imaging formation limits the application of computational microscopy especially in non‐ideal situations. Here, the feature‐domain consistency for achieving high‐fidelity computational microscopy is introduced. Feature‐domain consistency tells that certain features, such as edges, textures, or patterns of an image, remain invariant in different image transformations, degradations, or representations. Leveraging the feature‐domain consistency, Feature‐Domain Phase Retrieval (FD‐PR) is proposed, a framework applicable to various computational microscopy. Instead of working directly with images' pixel values, FD‐PR uses image features to guide the reconstruction of optical wavefronts and takes advantage of invariance components of images against mismatches of physical models. Experimental studies, across diverse phase retrieval microscopic tasks, including coded/Fourier ptychography, inline holography, and aberration correction, demonstrate that FD‐PR improves resolution by a factor of 1.5 and reduces noise levels by a factor of 2. The proposed framework can immediately benefit a wide range of computational microscopies, such as X‐ray ptychography, diffraction tomography, and wavefront shaping.
Impact of the Sulfurized Polyacrylonitrile Cathode Microstructure on the Electrochemical Performance of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Moschner Robin , Gerle Martina , Danner Timo , Simanjuntak Esther Kezia , Michalowski Peter , Latz Arnulf , Nojabaee Maryam , Kwade Arno , Friedrich K. A.
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for advanced energy storage systems requires the development of next‐generation battery technologies with superior energy density and cycle stability, with lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries representing a promising solution. Sulfur‐containing polyacrylonitrile cathodes (SPAN) for Li–S batteries are a significant advancement for this next‐generation battery chemistry, addressing the major issue of limited cycle life encountered in conventional carbon/sulfur composite cathodes. In the presented study, the influence of available ionic and electronic conduction pathways within the cathode on the electrochemical performance of SPAN‐based Li–S batteries is studied in details. To this end, a series of SPAN cathodes with different microstructures is prepared by adapting the compression degree of calendering. Mechanical and morphological characterizations confirm a pronounced springback effect due to a characteristic elastic deformation behavior of SPAN. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) shows increased cathode impedance values with multiple overlapping processes in the high‐ to mid‐frequency region in highly compressed SPAN cathodes. Moreover, while the (first) discharge capacity is unaffected, the subsequent charge capacity decreases substantially for highly compressed cathodes. The electrochemical experiments and electrochemical continuum simulations confirm that this phenomenon is mainly due to the disturbance of the electronic percolation pathways caused by the springback behavior during calendering.
Biomimetic Nanoplatform for Targeted Rheumatoid Arthritis Therapy: Modulating Macrophage Niches Through Self‐Sustaining Positive Feedback‐Driven Drug Release Mechanisms
Authors: Xie Huichao , Huang Xiaoyu , Li Bao , Chen Yongfeng , Niu Haoran , Yu Tong , Yang Shimei , Gao Shuxin , Zeng Yutong , Yang Tianzhi , Kang Yan , Zhang Keda , Ding Pingtian
Published: February 2025

The core strategies in treating rheumatoid arthritis (RA) now focus on ameliorating the inflammatory microenvironment and reversing macrophage phenotypes within the joint cavity. This study introduces a co‐delivery system of integrating nanoenzymes and gene therapeutics sequentially modified with guanidinium‐based polymers and macrophage membranes to achieve synergistic therapeutic effects. This co‐delivery system is named MACP siTNF‐α nanoparticles (NPs). MACP siTNF‐α nanoparticles are designed for targeted delivery to the inflamed joint site, where they are preferentially internalized by M1‐type macrophages and efficiently evade lysosomal degradation. Subsequently, the co‐delivery system operates efficiently via a self‐sustaining positive feedback drug release mechanism. The biomimetic nanoplatform reduces reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and prevents glutathione (GSH) depletion. GSH degrades the polymers to release small interfering RNA (siRNA) and expose the Prussian blue (PB) nanoenzymes, which effectively scavenge ROS and restore GSH levels. This feedback loop significantly enhances the gene silencing capability and ROS scavenging efficiency of the co‐delivery system. In summary, MACP siTNF‐α NPs can reverse macrophage ecological niche in inflammatory soils through the dual mechanism of efficiently inhibiting the expression of tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) the upstream pathway of the inflammatory response, and eliminating ROS, thus realizing efficient treatment of RA.
Outermost Cationic Surface Charge of Layer‐by‐Layer Films Prevents Endothelial Cells Migration for Cell Compartmentalization in Three‐Dimensional Tissues
Authors: Zeng Jinfeng , Heilig Sven , Ryma Matthias , Groll Jürgen , Li Congju , Matsusaki Michiya
Published: February 2025

Tissues and organs possess an organized cellular arrangement that enables their unique functions. However, conventional three‐dimensional (3D) encapsulation techniques fail to recapitulate this complexity due to the cell migration during cell culture. In biological tissues, basement membranes (BMs) are essential to mechanically support cellular organization. This study finds that a positively charged outermost surface of multilayered nanofilms, fabricated through layer‐by‐layer assembly of poly‐l‐lysine (PLL) and dextran (Dex) via hydrogen bonds, stimulates the barrier functions of BMs. This type of artificial BM (A‐BM) demonstrates enhanced barrier properties in comparison to other types of A‐BMs composed of BM components such as collagen type IV and laminin. Such an enhancement is potentially associated with the outermost cationic layer, which inhibits the sprouting of endothelial cells (ECs) and effectively prevents EC migration over a 14‐d period, aligning with the formation timeline of natural BMs in 3D tissues. Finally, 3D organized vascular channels are successfully engineered with the support of shape‐adaptable PLL/Dex nanofilms. This approach offers a guideline for engineering organized 3D tissue models by regulating cell migration, which can provide reliable platforms for in vitro permeability assay of new drugs or drug delivery carriers.
Semi‐Organic Artificial Photosynthetic System with Engineered Phenoxazinone Derivatives for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production with Broadened Near‐Infrared Light Harvesting
Authors: Ruan Xiaowen , Meng Depeng , Xu Minghua , Fang Guozhen , Ding Chunsheng , Leng Jing , Wang Xuan , Ba Kaikai , Zhang Haiyan , Zhang Wei , Xie Tengfeng , Jiang Zhifeng , Dai Jianan , Cui Xiaoqiang , Ravi Sai Kishore
Published: February 2025

Natural photosynthetic systems utilize complex pigment‐protein assemblies for light harvesting across a broad spectral range from UV to near‐infrared, enabling efficient photogeneration and charge separation. Conventional photocatalysts, however, primarily absorb UV (<380 nm) and visible light (380–780 nm), resulting in suboptimal spectral utilization. This study introduces a semi‐organic artificial photosynthetic system that integrates molecularly engineered phenoxazinone derivatives with H‐doped rutile TiO2 (H‐TiO2) nanorods. Bis(Triphenylamine)Phenoxazinone (BTP) features a phenoxazinone core with two triphenylamine donor groups, enabling light absorption up to 800 nm. Modifying BTP with an additional malononitrile group (MBTP) extends absorption into the NIR region up to 1200 nm. Optimized semi‐organic catalysts with MBTP nanobelts and H‐TiO2 nanorods showed an excellent photocatalytic hydrogen evolution rate of 29.4 mmol g−1 h−1 and 60.4 µmol g−1 h−1 under UV–vis and NIR irradiation, respectively. Femtosecond transient absorption (fs‐TA) spectroscopy showed rapid electron injection from the photoexcited phenoxazinone derivatives to the H‐TiO2 conduction band, indicating efficient charge carrier dynamics. Photoelectrochemical measurements confirmed improved charge transport and reduced recombination in the MBTP‐based system, attributed to the stronger internal electric field and increased dipole moment from the malononitrile modification. These findings highlight the potential of tailored semi‐organic systems for high‐efficiency solar‐to‐hydrogen conversion.
Strain‐Induced Reduction of Centrosymmetry in Rare‐Earth Iron Garnet Thin Films
Authors: Ahamed EMK Ikball , Yamahara Hiroyasu , Sarker Md Shamim , Li Haining , Morikawa Kazuo , Yamagami Kohei , Kobayashi Masaki , Seki Munetoshi , Tabata Hitoshi
Published: February 2025

Rare‐earth iron garnets (RIG, R3Fe5O12) are insulating ferrimagnets with high inversion symmetry because of their centrosymmetric cubic crystal structure. However, this high centrosymmetry can be reduced by introducing a non‐uniform strain, leading to a tetragonally distorted lattice structure. In this study, the strain‐induced lattice distortions and symmetry‐breaking features are investigated in compressively strained Sm3Fe5O12 and tensile‐strained Lu3Fe5O12 thin films around critical thicknesses. Experiments indicate that tensile strain prevents the in‐plane epitaxy from relaxing, whereas compressive strain leads to easy relaxation after reaching a critical threshold triggered by misfit dislocations. A non‐zero orbital moment, a more than tenfold increase in coercivity, and an increase in Gilbert damping near the critical thickness indicate a reduction of spatial inversion symmetry without forming any misfit dislocations. It is speculated that strain energy in uniformly strained epitaxial thin films has been partially released when the thickness reached about the critical thickness. The proposed strain‐mediated reduction of centrosymmetry may pave the way to achieve controllable magneto‐dynamics in dislocation‐free tensile strained RIG thin films.
Toward High‐Performance Electrochemical Energy Storage Systems: A Case Study on Predicting Electrochemical Properties and Inverse Material Design of MXene‐Based Electrode Materials with Automated Machine Learning (AutoML)
Authors: Alemdag Berna , Saygili Görkem , Franzreb Matthias , Kabay Gözde
Published: February 2025

This study highlights the potential of Automated Machine Learning (AutoML) to improve and accelerate the optimization and synthesis processes and facilitate the discovery of materials. Using a Density Functional Theory (DFT)‐simulated dataset of monolayer MXene‐based electrodes, AutoML assesses 20 regression models to predict key electrochemical and structural properties, including intercalation voltage, theoretical capacity, and lattice parameters. The CatBoost regressor achieves R2 values of 0.81 for intercalation voltage, 0.995 for theoretical capacity as well as 0.807 and 0.997 for intercalated and non‐intercalated in‐plane lattice constants, respectively. Feature importance analyses reveal essential structure‐property relationships, improving model interpretability. AutoML's classification module also bolsters inverse material design, effectively identifying promising compositions, such as Mg2+‐intercalated and oxygen‐terminated ScC2 MXenes, for high‐capacity and high‐voltage energy storage applications. This approach diminishes reliance on computational expertise by automating model selection, hyperparameter tuning, and performance evaluation. While MXene‐based electrodes serve as a demonstrative system, the methodology and workflow can extend to other material systems, including perovskites and conductive polymers. Future efforts should prioritize integrating AutoML with real‐time experimental feedback and hybrid simulation frameworks to create adaptive systems. These systems can iteratively refine predictions and optimize trade‐offs among critical metrics like capacity, stability, and charge/discharge rates, driving advancements in energy storage and other material applications.