bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frog Fibres: What Muscle Architecture Can Tell Us About Anuran Locomotor Function
Authors: Leavey Alice , Richards Christopher T. , Porro Laura B.
Published: December 2024

Muscle fibre architecture is an important aspect of anatomy to consider when estimating muscle properties. How fibre architecture varies across species specialising in different locomotor functions is not well understood in anurans, due to difficulties associated with fibre extraction in small animals using traditional methods. This paper presents the first digital analysis of fibre architecture in frogs using an automated fibre‐tracking algorithm and contrast‐enhanced µCT scans. We find differences in hindlimb muscle fibre architecture between frogs specialising in different locomotor modes, as well as examples of many‐to‐one mapping of form to function. The trade‐off between fibre length and muscle physiological cross‐sectional area, and therefore contractile speed, range of motion and muscle force output, differs significantly between jumpers and swimmers, but not walker‐hoppers. Where species place on this functional spectrum of fibre architecture largely depends on the muscle being examined. There is also some evidence that fibre length may be adjusted to increase contractile speed without undertaking the metabolically expensive process of growing and maintaining larger muscles. Finally, we make a detailed outline of the remaining gaps in our understanding of anuran fibre architecture that can now be addressed with this valuable digital method in future research.
Glass Vials Coated with Polymer‐Supported‐Catalysts as Reaction Vessels: Stir, Pour, Rinse and Reuse
Authors: Gayen Arun Kumar , Sardana Harshita , Ramakrishnan S
Published: December 2024

Lightly crosslinked polymeric gel‐supported catalysts have the potential to retain the recyclability and ease of product isolation of traditional polymer‐supported catalysts, while at the same time, they can provide greater homogeneity of catalytic sites and improved reaction rates, especially in the solvent‐swollen state. In the present study, a strategy is devised to covalently anchor a film of swellable crosslinked polymer onto a suitably surface‐derivatized glass vial, and have utilized this coating to bind to Cu, Pd, and Au catalysts; these coated vials are then utilized for azide‐alkyne click, Suzuki coupling and catalytic reduction reactions, respectively. In all cases, simply stirring the reactant mixture in the vial delivers high yields, and the vials can be rinsed and reused several times with little loss of activity. Several control experiments confirm that the catalysis largely occurred within the coated gel film and is not due to leached‐out metal in the reaction medium. Importantly, this strategy can be very useful, when adapted for critical labeling reactions of biomolecules, wherein reactions are often carried out on very small scales, and ease of product isolation with zero contamination is critical.
Development and Evaluation of Poly(Lactic‐Co‐Glycolic Acid) Encapsulated Betulinic Acid Nanocarrier for Improved Anti‐Tumor Efficacy
Authors: Selepe Cyril Tlou , Dhlamini Khanyisile Sheer , Tshweu Lesego , Kwezi Lusisizwe , Ramalapa Bathabile , Ray Suprakas Sinha
Published: December 2024

Betulinic acid (BA) is a promising natural anti‐tumor agent renowned for its activity against various tumor cell types. Despite its favorable profile of low cytotoxicity to normal cells, BA's inherent hydrophobic nature and relatively short systematic half‐life impose hurdles for clinical application. This study introduces a strategy to surmount these obstacles by developing a drug delivery system employing poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA)‐encapsulated BA nanoparticles (PLGA‐BA NPs). Rigorous characterization techniques such as dynamic light scattering (DLS), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses are employed to confirm the integrity of the drug within the nanocarriers. The PLGA‐BA NPs demonstrated a mean particle size of 196 ± 6.80 nm. XRD analysis demonstrated the amorphous state of the PLGA‐BA formulation, a characteristic vital for sustained drug release and enhanced bioavailability. The PLGA‐BA NPs exhibited spherical morphology with encapsulation and loading efficiency of 83 ± 9.24% and 7.0 ± 0.4%, respectively, highlighting efficient encapsulation of the drug within the PLGA NPs. In vitro, cytotoxicity assessments demonstrated enhanced anti‐proliferative efficacy against breast and lung tumor cells when utilizing PLGA‐BA NPs in comparison to free BA. This research underlines the potential of employing the developed PLGA‐based nanocarrier to optimize the therapeutic efficacy of BA.
Diclofenac Degradation by Immobilized Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and Scenedesmus obliquus
Authors: Kariyawasam Thamali , Petkovich Martin , Vriens Bas
Published: December 2024

Diclofenac (DCF), a commonly used anti‐inflammatory medication, presents environmental concerns due to its presence in water bodies, resistance to conventional wastewater treatment methods, and detection at increasing concentrations (ng/L to µg/L) that highlight DCF as a global emerging pollutant. While microalgae have been effective in degrading DCF in wastewater, immobilization into a matrix offers a promising approach to enhance treatment retention and efficiency. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of DCF removal using immobilized freshwater microalgae. Two algal species, Chlamydomonas reinhardtii (Chlamydomonas) and Scenedesmus obliquus (Scenedesmus), were tested for 6 days in both free and immobilized forms to determine if immobilized algae could degrade DCF comparably to free cells. The findings indicate that by Day 3, immobilized Chlamydomonas and Scenedesmus removed 78.0% and 80.1% of DCF, outperforming free‐cell cultures. Mixed cultures demonstrated synergistic effects, with removal amounts of 91.4% for free and 92.3% for immobilized systems. By Day 6, all conditions achieved complete DCF removal (100%). Mechanistic analysis showed 80.0% biodegradation and 20.0% bioaccumulation in free Chlamydomonas and 56.8% biodegradation with 43.2% bioaccumulation in Scenedesmus. Immobilization shifted pathways slightly: in Chlamydomonas, 61.6% of DCF removal occurred via biodegradation, 18.3% via bioaccumulation, and 20.1% via abiotic degradation. For Scenedesmus, immobilization achieved 45.6% biodegradation, 36.6% bioaccumulation, and 17.8% abiotic degradation, enhancing abiotic degradation while maintaining biodegradation efficiency. This research serves as a proof of concept for utilizing immobilized algae in DCF removal and suggests an avenue for improved wastewater treatment of emerging contaminants.
Levels of Bile Acid Metabolism Are Associated With Alterations of Gut Microbes in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Yang Zhihao , Zhou Fengqin , Zhan Daqin , Li Pengcheng , Pan Jun
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is viewed as a metabolism associated disease, and bile acid metabolism is reported to occupy a significant role in the progression of HCC. However, little is known about the association between gut microbes and bile acid metabolism in HCC. Our study was designed to clarify the role of bile acid metabolism and microbiome in the progression of HCC. We investigated the relationship between bile acid metabolism and prognosis and immune cells by mining GSE14520. We studied the microbial profiles and metabolic alterations between the low bile acid group and high bile acid group using 16S rRNA sequencing and metabolomics. HCC patients in the high bile acid metabolism group showed better survival outcome compared with those in the low bile acid metabolism. Immune analysis displayed the close correlation between low bile acid metabolism and infiltration of CD4 + T cells, and the close relationship between high bile acid metabolism and infiltration of CD8 + T cells, macrophage cells in HCC. 16S rRNA sequencing results demonstrated that Blautia, Ruminococcus_gnavus_group, Erysipelotrichaceae_UCG‐003 were mostly enriched in the low bile acid group. Metabolomics of the 109 fecal samples showed that the most enriched metabolites in the low total bile acid group were dihydrocytochalasin B, cucurbic acid and 27‐Norcholestanehexol. Finally, KEGG enrichment analysis identified secondary bile acid biosynthesis and endocrine resistance as the most significant metabolic pathways. High bile acid metabolism was associated with more infiltration of CD8 + T cells, macrophage cells, and better prognosis in HCC. Levels of bile acid were significantly associated with altered gut microbes and metabolites in HCC. Further research related to gut microbes and bile acid metabolism may provide a novel insight into the pathogenesis and therapeutic strategy of HCC.
Acoustic-tagged American Shad utilize historic habitat following dam removal in northern Delaware
Authors: Roday Rachel E. , Park Ian A. , Moore Johnny E. , Feris Serrano Randy J. , Fox Dewayne A. , Hale Edward A.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The anadromous American Shad Alosa sapidissima, a once commercially important species in the mid-Atlantic region, experienced population declines due to overfishing, poor water quality, and impediments to accessing freshwater spawning habitat. Efforts at the regional and national scale substantially addressed the former two obstacles to facilitate population growth, but dam modifications or removal are still ongoing. In 2019, the state of Delaware removed the first barrier to anadromous fish passage on the Brandywine River (a tributary of the Delaware River), Dam 1.

Methods

A total of 24 American Shad were surgically tagged with acoustic transmitters from 2021 to 2022 above recently removed Dam 1 and tracked in the Delaware River estuary and coastal waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Result

The length of available habitat increased by 1.3 km, and 75.0% of surgically tagged American Shad used historic spawning grounds in the Brandywine River following dam removal. Nine individuals exhibited long-term residency in the Brandywine River from May to June, demonstrating the importance of this newly available habitat to spawning adults. Additionally, one fish returned to the Brandywine River between years, displaying interannual spawning site fidelity and iteroparity. We also observed exploratory behavior of three additional American Shad that exited and returned to the Brandywine River within the same year.

Conclusion

Overall, we document a successful collaborative network via receiver array maintenance to answer questions regarding anadromous fish migration and habitat use following dam removal.
Age, growth, maturity, and mortality of an understudied Gray Snapper fishery from the north-central Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Kim Edward S. M. , McDonald Justin C. , Muñoz-Abril Laia , Drymon J. Marcus , Albins Mark A. , Powers Sean P.
Published: December 2024

Objective

Gray Snapper Lutjanus griseus constitute a significant recreational fishery and minor commercial fishery throughout the Gulf of Mexico. The overall stock appears healthy based on the results of the most recent assessment; in fact, shifting climate conditions have led to range expansions and subsequent population growth in the north-central Gulf of Mexico, a region for which the full suite of basic biological data is currently lacking for this species. This work presents the results of a comprehensive study on the age, growth, maturity, and mortality of Gray Snapper in Alabama and Mississippi waters.

Methods

From 2011 to 2021, otoliths (n = 886) and gonads (n = 364) were sampled and processed according to standard microscopic techniques. Age data were used to fit three separate growth functions and derive estimates of total, natural, and fishing mortality, while testes and ovaries were categorized by reproductive phase to determine maturity at length and age.

Result

Ages ranged from 0 to 27 years, representing one of the most comprehensive collections across published studies to date. Sex-specific growth curves constructed using the von Bertalanffy growth function were preferred over the Gompertz and logistic models based on Akaike information criterion and suggest that males reach a higher mean asymptotic length Lt=731.521−e−0.15t+1.34 than females Lt=704.281−e−0.14t+1.62. Based on histological analyses, we estimate total length at 50% maturity to be 181 mm for males and 273 mm for females and total length at 90% maturity to be 215 mm for males and 354 mm for females. We estimate the age at 50% maturity to be <1.0 year for males and 2.0 years for females and the age at 90% maturity to be 1.4 years for males and 3.6 years for females. Mortality rates calculated using preferred estimators (Z = 0.30–0.38; M = 0.26; F = 0.04–0.12) indicate relatively low levels of exploitation in the north-central Gulf of Mexico, with full recruitment to the fishery occurring at age 4.

Conclusion

Based on these results, the Gray Snapper population in the north-central Gulf of Mexico is characterized by a relatively unexploited age structure with moderate longevity that has been subject to minimal fishing pressure. The findings from this study introduce new regional data for incorporation into assessments and provide an informed basis for future management decisions in this fishery.
Association between the Amplification Parameters of the α‐Synuclein Seed Amplification Assay and Clinical and Genetic Subtypes of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Grillo Piergiorgio , Concha‐Marambio Luis , Pisani Antonio , Riboldi Giulietta Maria , Kang Un Jung
Published: December 2024

Background

α‐Synuclein seed amplification assay on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF‐αSyn‐SAA) has shown high accuracy for Parkinson's disease (PD) diagnosis. The analysis of CSF‐αSyn‐SAA parameters may provide useful insight to dissect the heterogeneity of synucleinopathies.

Objective

To assess differences in CSF‐αSyn‐SAA amplification parameters in participants with PD stratified by rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD), dysautonomia, GBA, and LRRK2 variants.

Methods

Clinical and CSF‐αSyn‐SAA data from the Parkinson's Progression Marker Initiative dataset were used. CSF‐αSyn‐SAA parameters included maximum fluorescence (Fmax), time to reach 50% of Fmax (T50), time to threshold (TTT), slope, and area under the curve (AUC). Sporadic PD (n = 371) was stratified according to RBD and dysautonomia (DysA) symptoms. Genetic PD included carriers of pathogenic variants of GBA (GBA‐PD, n = 52) and LRRK2 (LRRK2‐PD, n = 124) gene.

Results

CSF‐αSyn‐SAA was positive in 77% of LRRK2‐PD, 92.3% of GBA‐PD, and 93.8% of sporadic PD. The LRRK2‐PD cohort showed longer T50 and TTT, and smaller AUC than GBA‐PD (P = 0.029, P = 0.029, P = 0.016, respectively) and sporadic PD (P = 0.034, P = 0.033, P = 0.014, respectively). In the sporadic cohort, CSF‐αSyn‐SAA parameters were similar between PD with (n = 157) and without (n = 190) RBD, whereas participants with DysA (n = 193) presented shorter T50 (P = 0.026) and larger AUC (P = 0.029) than those without (n = 150).

Conclusion

CSF‐αSyn‐SAA parameters vary across genetic and non‐genetic PD subtypes at the group level. These differences are mostly driven by the presence of LRRK2 variants and DysA. Significant overlaps in the amplification parameter values exist between groups and limit their use at the individual level. Further studies are necessary to understand the mechanisms of CSF‐αSyn‐SAA parameter differences. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Protein Binding Site Representation in Latent Space
Authors: Lohmann Frederieke , Allenspach Stephan , Atz Kenneth , Schiebroek Carl C. G. , Hiss Jan A. , Schneider Gisbert
Published: December 2024

Interpretability and reliability of deep learning models are important for computer‐based drug discovery. Aiming to understand feature perception by such a model, we investigate a graph neural network for affinity prediction of protein‐ligand complexes. We assess a latent representation of ligand binding sites and investigate underlying geometric structure in this latent space and its relation to protein function. We introduce an automated computational pipeline for dimensionality reduction, clustering, hypothesis testing, and visualization of latent space. The results indicate that the learned protein latent space is inherently structured and not randomly distributed. Several of the identified protein binding site clusters in latent space correspond to functional protein families. Ligand size was found to be a determinant of cluster geometry. The computational pipeline proved applicable to latent space analysis and interpretation and can be adapted to work for different datasets and deep learning models.
Molecular evolution and interaction of ROS with ion transport for plant abiotic stresses
Authors: Yu Hanxia , Xiao Haoyan , Abou‐Elwafa Salah Fatouh , Qiao Yabei , Chen Lily , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Wu Yusen , Jiang Wei , Tan Wenbing
Published: December 2024

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) serve as crucial signaling molecules in plants, enabling rapid responses to environmental stresses such as abiotic factors. ROS production primarily stems from the activation of enzymes such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidases and peroxidases, as well as disruptions in the respiratory and photosynthetic electron transport chains. This oxidative stress triggers signaling pathways that involve in calcium ion (Ca2+) influx across cell membranes, altering ionic conductance. ROS encompass hydroxyl radicals (OH•) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which activate hyperpolarization‐activated Ca2+ channels and influence ion transport dynamics. Our review focuses on the mechanisms driving ROS generation and ion transport during plant responses to abiotic stress. We explore the regulation, characteristics, and potential structures of ROS‐activated ion channels in plants. Specifically, we examine the molecular responses and evolutionary adaptations of Shaker‐type K+ channels (AKT/KAT/GORK/SKOR) under stress conditions. Comparative genetic analyses highlight the conservation of these channels and other ROS‐regulated proteins (e.g., MDHAR, POX, and RBOH), suggesting their essential roles in plant to adapt to diverse stresses. This study underscores the significance of ROS‐regulated proteins in plant stress responses, advocating for further research to elucidate their fundamental roles.
Selective Adipose Cryolysis for Reduction of Lingual Tissue in a Porcine Model
Authors: Gonzales Donald , Morris Cassandra E. , Kannan Srinivas , Soykan Orhan , Kezirian Eric J.
Published: December 2024

Objectives

Oropharyngeal fat volume is associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) severity. Selective adipose cryolysis may produce cold‐induced adipose cell death while sparing surrounding tissues. This study explored (1) similarities in tongue fat between porcine and human models and (2) the feasibility and potential reduction of lingual fat using selective adipose cryolysis.

Study Design

Porcine model.

Setting

Preclinical research laboratory under IACUC‐approved protocols.

Methods

Anatomical, histological, and biochemical characterizations of tongue tissue from 6 porcine and 4 human cadaver specimens were conducted to establish comparative frameworks. Comparison of fat distribution and composition was conducted via image analysis of histological sections as well as gas chromatography analysis of fatty acid composition. Safety and efficacy of selective adipose cryolysis were evaluated in an additional 16 porcine animals using a prototype cooling system. Histological analysis examined tissue response at 3, 6, 30, and 45 d posttreatment.

Results

Comparative analysis revealed similar fat distribution and composition between human and porcine tongues. Selective adipose cryolysis induced progressive reduction in treated area tongue fat content at all timepoints, from 42% at baseline to 32% (t = 3 d) and 14% (t = 30 d), accompanied by macrophage infiltration, crown‐like structure formation, and tissue remodeling.

Conclusion

Selective adipose cryolysis holds promise as a targeted therapeutic approach for reducing lingual fat in humans. The porcine model may provide valuable insight into treatment mechanisms and support initial translational work. Further research is warranted to elucidate long‐term treatment outcomes and optimize clinical implementation strategies, with the goal of improving management of OSA in humans.
Clinical Outcomes of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection Among Pediatric Immunocompromised Hosts
Authors: Ross Hailey S. , Dallas Ronald H. , Ferrolino Jose A. , Johnson Madeline B. , Allison Kim J. , Cross Shane J. , Hayden Randall T. , Mejias Asuncion , Hijano Diego R.
Published: December 2024

Background

Pediatric immunocompromised patients are at an increased risk of severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Here, we aimed to describe the clinical course and outcomes of RSV infection in immunocompromised children.

Methods

This single‐center study at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital involved immunocompromised children ≤21 years old with a positive RSV clinical test from 2007 to 2019. Demographic and clinical characteristics, laboratory values, treatment delays for underlying conditions, and outcomes were gathered from electronic medical records. Multivariate models identified risk factors predictive of severe RSV‐lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI).

Results

A total of 391 patients, predominantly children over 2 years old (median age: 5), were included in the study. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) was the most prevalent underlying disease. Most patients (85.7%) exhibited upper respiratory tract infections, while approximately 6% progressed to LRTIs. Over half of the patients (58.8%) required hospitalization, and one‐third experienced modifications or delays in their underlying disease treatment due to RSV infection. Severe RSV infections were observed in 15.9% of patients. All‐cause mortality was 2.6%, with 0.7% of deaths attributed to RSV.

Conclusions

One‐third of patients experienced a delay in treatment for their underlying disease due to RSV infection, a phenomenon not well understood but potentially significant. Many immunocompromised children with RSV require hospitalization, including those over 2 years old. RSV imposes a significant burden on immunocompromised children of all ages, affecting their cancer treatment plans both directly and indirectly.
Effect of print orientations, layer thicknesses, and weathering on the mechanical properties, failure mechanism, and service life of 3D‐printed photocured resin parts
Authors: Vakiti Tarun , Suranani Srinath , Kuppusamy Raghu Raja Pandiyan
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the effects of print orientation, layer thickness, and weathering on the mechanical properties, failure mechanisms, and service life of stereolithography (SLA) 3D‐printed photocured resin parts. Samples were printed with various orientations (0°, 22.5°, 45°, 67.5°, and 90°) and layer thicknesses (0.025 mm, 0.05 mm, and 0.1 mm), then subjected to accelerated aging at 60°C, 0.7 W/m2 ultraviolet (UV) light, and 100% humidity for 500 and 1008 h. Mechanical properties were evaluated through tensile, flexural, and compression tests, with fractography conducted on failed surfaces. Service life was estimated by assessing strength retention under simulated environmental stressors. Results showed that a 0.025 mm layer thickness at a 0° orientation yielded high tensile and flexural strengths of 44.66 and 86.88 MPa, respectively. The highest compressive strength of 76.9 MPa was achieved at 90° orientation. After 500 and 1008 h of weathering, tensile, flexural, and compressive strengths declined by 19%, 26%, 25%, 37%, and 22%, 31%, respectively. Additionally, the weathering effect transformed the elongation at break from elastic to brittle, and fractography showed an increase in voids and failures. Service life predictions indicated that the 0.025 mm thickness had the longest durability. Future work can extend this research to other photocured resins and composites to evaluate their performance in real‐world environments.

Highlights

3D printing and weathering parameters on the part quality were investigated.

Tensile, flexural, and compression tests were used to assess parts strength.

Fractography was conducted to ascertain the failure mechanism of the printed parts.

Service life models were developed based on mechanical strength retention.
Alkylated derivatives of chitosan for stabilization of polylactide microparticles used as building blocks for 3D structures
Authors: Popyrina Tatiana N. , Minaeva Ekaterina D. , Emelyanov Kirill V. , Ilina Elena B. , Akopova Tatiana А. , Minaev Nikita V. , Demina Tatiana S.
Published: December 2024

Modification of the chitosan chemical structure by grafting hydrophobic fragments makes it possible to synthesize derivatives with amphiphilic properties. These derivatives were used as emulsifiers in the aqueous phase during the production of polylactide microparticles via the oil/water solvent evaporation technique. The application of the derivatives allows to achieve a high yield of the microparticles and to provide a hydrophilic coating on the surface of polylactide microparticle. The chitosan‐coated polylactide microparticles were analyzed in terms of mean size, size distribution, surface, and internal morphology. The ability of the obtained microparticles to be used as a starting component for the fabrication of 3D materials through the surface‐selective laser sintering was evaluated, and the optimal parameters for the process have been determined.
The Floor Is (Y)Ours: Auxiliary Staff Voices Their Persona
Authors: Caner Mustafa , Karatas Suleyman , Karadag Engin , Sertel Gülsüm
Published: December 2024

The current study investigated the perspectives of auxiliary staff regarding their profession. This study used a holistic multiple‐case study design and a qualitative research method. The sample consisted of 45 auxiliary staff who worked in various K12 public schools in the central districts of a city in Turkey and voluntarily participated in the study. The study's participants, which was designed using a case study design, consisted of 45 auxiliary staff working in 11 K12 public schools in the central districts of a province in Turkey who voluntarily participated in the study. A maximum variation sampling strategy, a purposeful sampling technique, was employed for sample selection. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with each participant to gather data for this study. An inductive content analysis method was used to analyze the collected data, and the findings were interpreted accordingly. The results revealed that auxiliary staff perform multiple roles, such as sanitation, kitchen duties, environmental monitoring, administrative tasks, and technical work. Moreover, the auxiliary staff perceived that their various roles contributed to the overall well‐being of the school community in schools.
A bHLH Transcription Factor Confers Salinity Stress Tolerance in Betula platyphylla
Authors: Fang Qilong , Wu Di , Sun Hu , Wang Luyao , Liu Yuping , Mei Wenfeng , Guo Huiyan
Published: December 2024

Basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) proteins comprise a large family of transcription factors that are involved in plant growth and development, as well as responses to various types of environmental stress. Betula platyphylla (birch) is a pioneer tree species in secondary forest that plays a key role in maintaining ecosystem stability and forest regeneration, but few bHLHs involved in abiotic stress responses have been unveiled in birch. In this study, nine BpbHLH TFs related to stress responses in the birch genome were identified. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) analysis indicated that the expression of these TFs can be induced by salt stress, and the expression of BpbHLH1 was higher than that of other BpbHLH genes. Particle bombardment analysis revealed that BpbHLH1 was localized to the nucleus. Yeast transformation found that BpbHLH1 has transcriptional activation activity. We generated BpbHLH1‐overexpressing and silencing transgenic birch plants and subjected them to salt stress analysis. BpbHLH1 can enhance the salt tolerance of birch plants by increasing the reactive oxygen species scavenging ability and inhibiting cell death. Yeast one‐hybrid, ß‐glucuronidase, and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed that BpbHLH1 can regulate the expression of target genes involved in stress resistance by binding to the E‐box‐1, E‐box‐2 and G‐box elements in their promoters. The results of this study enhanced our understanding of the salt tolerance conferred by BpbHLH TFs in B. platyphylla and identified useful genes for the breeding of novel birch germplasm.
High extinction risk of the endemic tree flora in a hyper‐diverse region of the Amazon
Authors: Guevara‐Andino Juan Ernesto , Navas‐Muñoz Daniel , Endara María‐José
Published: December 2024

Societal Impact Statement

The rapid global loss of biodiversity, especially in the Neotropics, underscores the need to understand how deforestation impacts endemic plant species' extinction risk and conservation status. Due to limited ranges and habitat specialization, endemics are particularly vulnerable. Our study reveals that around 14% and 47% of Ecuadorian Amazon endemic trees are Critically Endangered and Endangered, respectively, with 41% facing high extinction risk. Traits like life‐form, fruit size, and height relate to extinction vulnerability. These findings highlight the factors driving Amazonian tree flora endangerment, providing crucial insights for conservation efforts of this fundamental component of Amazon hyper‐diverse forests.

Comprehensive analyses of the global conservation statuses of endemic tree species are scarce, especially for species‐rich forests. Endemic trees arguably suffer a higher extinction risk than other plant species due to their restricted geographic range and habitat specialization. Here, we present an updated assessment of the conservation status and extinction risk estimates for the endemic tree flora of the Ecuadorian Amazon, a darkspot of biodiversity.

We combined an extensively verified taxonomic database of Amazon tree species abundance and occurrence with the most updated data of deforestation for this region.

We found that approximately one sixth of the Ecuadorian Amazon endemic tree flora is Critically Endangered. A few clades, including Myrtaceae, Elaeocarpaceae, Fabaceae s.l., and Lauraceae, harbor one third of the Critically Endangered endemic tree species. According to our analysis, the extinction risk for endemic trees is associated not only with extrinsic factors such as deforestation but also with their ecology. Life‐form, fruit size, and maximum height are significantly related to extinction risk. Thus, endemic understory and canopy trees with small fruits are more prone to suffer extinction than emergent tree species.

We argue that assessment programs should also include biological trait information in addition to geographic ranges and habitat specialization for the establishment of effective conservation strategies of this hyper‐diverse region of the Amazon.
Multiconnected Beam Gradient Seismic Metamaterials for Broadband Rayleigh Wave Attenuation
Authors: Sun Hongyang , Hai Hong , Xu Weikai , Wang Wei , Cheng Saiwei
Published: December 2024

Local resonance metamaterials have addressed the limitations of Bragg scattering‐type periodic structures in low‐frequency applications, providing a new path for the development of new seismic systems. However, achieving broadband attenuation of low‐frequency seismic waves within a compact structural design remains challenging. This article presents a novel local resonance seismic metamaterial (SM) with an ultra‐low frequency broad bandgap. It consists of an external steel frame, peripheral steel connecting beams, bottom rubber cushions, and a central steel resonator. By combining dispersion analysis and acoustic cone methods to calculate its bandgap, the attenuation range of the SM is clarified, and the influence of structural parameter changes on the upper and lower limits of bandgap is discussed. The results demonstrate that the attenuation domain can be further broadened through parameter gradient design, and frequency domain analysis confirms that the proposed gradient local resonance SM can achieve broadband seismic wave attenuation from 1.0611 to 10.895 Hz. Finally, time‐domain analysis elucidates the dynamic response of the SM, further validating the study's effectiveness. The SM proposed herein has practical and economic applications in surface vibration isolation, effectively protecting large infrastructure and civil engineering structures.
To learn or to resist? Employee reactions to coworker entrepreneurship and the moderating role of employee moral attentiveness
Authors: Ye Qingyan , Ji Hao , Huang Weize , Wang Duanxu
Published: December 2024

Research Summary

Drawing on social cognitive theory, this study develops and tests a model to clarify the boundary conditions and mechanisms through which coworker entrepreneurship influences employee entrepreneurship. Two time‐lagged field studies support our predictions: employee moral attentiveness moderates the effect of coworker entrepreneurship on employee entrepreneurship, with coworker entrepreneurship reducing employee entrepreneurship among those with high moral attentiveness and increasing it among those with low attentiveness. Additionally, deontic injustice mediates the negative relationship when moral attentiveness is high, while vicarious learning mediates the positive relationship when attentiveness is low. These findings indicate that interpersonal influence in organizations is much more complex than the simple “Monkey see, Monkey do” explanation of social learning and emphasize the need to integrate moral and justice considerations into entrepreneurship research.

Managerial Summary

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the dual impact of coworker entrepreneurship on employee entrepreneurship. It suggests that employees characterized by high moral attentiveness are more likely to perceive deontic injustice when witnessing coworker entrepreneurship, thus prompting resistance to imitating such behavior. Conversely, employees with low moral attentiveness are prone to engage in vicarious learning, potentially leading them to mimic their coworkers' entrepreneurial actions. These findings highlight crucial factors that may deter employees from replicating their coworkers' entrepreneurial endeavors and offer valuable insights for managers seeking to mitigate the negative influence of coworker entrepreneurship and its spread within organizational contexts.
Fabrication of 3D Functional Nanocomposites Through Post‐Doping of Two‐Photon Microprinted Nanoporous Architectures
Authors: Zhang Junning , Liu Sida , Kanokkanchana Kannasoot , Kuzina Mariia , Zhou Meijun , Du Xin , Gu Zhongze , Dong Zheqin , Levkin Pavel A.
Published: December 2024

Two‐photon lithography (TPL) enables the fabrication of complex 3D structures with sub‐micrometer precision. Incorporation of new functionalities into TPL‐printed structures is key to advance their applications. A prevalent approach to achieve this is by directly adding functional nanomaterials into the photoresist (called “pre‐doping”), which has several inherent challenges including material compatibility, light scattering, and nanoparticle agglomeration. Here, a conceptually different “post‐doping” strategy is proposed, where the functionality of the TPL‐printed architectures is achieved by impregnating functional materials into their nanoporous 3D mimics. Using the principle of polymerization‐induced phase separation, TPL printing of complex microarchitectures with well‐defined nanoporous structures having pores of ≈420 nm is realized, which allows spontaneous impregnation of functional liquids via capillary effect. Importantly, unlike the “pre‐doping” approach that requires printing optimization for each photoresist, this strategy is highly versatile in terms of functionalities possible. As a proof‐of‐concept, the impregnation of several functional liquids into TPL‐printed porous microstructures is demonstrated: a fluorinated‐lubricant, an ionic liquid, and three types of fluorescent liquids, conferring the microstructures with slippery, conductive, and localized fluorescence properties, respectively. Such versatility to fabricate complex microstructures with tailorable and localized functionalities is expected to open new possibilities in wide fields including bionics, electronics, and cell biology.
Cocklebur‐Inspired Robust Non‐flammable Polymer Thermo Conductor for CPU Cooling
Authors: Wang Yongbin , Fan Yong , Pan Kaichao , Liu Zunfeng , Zhao Weiqiang , Zhou Xiang , Qiu Jun
Published: December 2024

Efficient computer central processing units (CPUs) heat dissipation demands polymer‐based thermal interface materials that combine high thermal conductivity with strong mechanical properties, eliminating the need for additional fasteners. However, polymers with high thermal conductivity often suffer from insufficient mechanical strength and other challenges, including high production costs, elevated interfacial thermal resistance, and flammability. Inspired by the 3D “spininess‐seeds‐bark” structure of cocklebur, cast polyurethane (PUC) composites are developed using copper ethylenediamine methylene‐phosphonate as the “spininess” and functionalized alumina microspheres as the “seeds” filler. This spininess configuration prevents organophosphate self‐polymerization, imparting self‐extinguishing properties to the polymer, while also enhancing the mechanical strength and thermal conductivity by connecting the “seeds” to the matrix. The bark‐like structure enables effective interlocking of functional particles, optimizing the synergy within the composite. The elevated surface reduces interfacial thermal resistance, leading to enhanced thermal conductivity. The resulting PUC composites demonstrate impressive performance, with a tensile strength of 15.9 MPa and thermal conductivity of 2.51 W m⁻¹ K⁻¹, providing effective continuous cooling for high‐power CPUs. These composites offer low density, broad availability, and environmental sustainability, making them promising candidates for sustainable electronics and new energy applications, aligned with global development strategies.
Remodel Heterogeneous Electrical Microenvironment at Nano‐Scale Interface Optimizes Osteogenesis by Coupling of Immunomodulation and Angiogenesis
Authors: Tang Qingming , Fan Youzhun , Sun Jiwei , Fan Wenjie , Zhao Baoying , Yin Zhaoyi , Cao Yaru , Han Yunyun , Su Bin , Yang Cheng , Yu Peng , Ning Chengyun , Chen Lili
Published: December 2024

Immunomodulation is essential for implants to regulate tissue regeneration, while bioelectricity plays a fundamental role in regulating immune activities. Under natural preferences, the bone matrix electrical microenvironment is heterogeneous in the nanoscale, which provides fundamental electrical cues to regulate bone immunity and regenerative repair. However, remodeling bone nanoscale heterogeneous electrical microenvironment remains a challenge, and the underlying immune modulation mechanism remains to be explored. In this research, in situ discretely distributed nano‐heterojunctions are constructed on titanium oxide nanofibers to mimic the heterogeneous electrical microenvironment exhibited by bone collagen fibers. The material is identified to directly regulate calcium ion channeling for anti‐inflammatory polarization of macrophages. Surprisingly, the highly biomimetic heterogeneous electrical microenvironment can induce a pro‐angiogenic phenotypic transformation of macrophages, leading to enhanced neo‐vascularization at the early stage of osteogenesis. Mechanistic exploration identifies that PI3K signaling pathway‐mediated FGF2 secretion may partially explain for strengthened coupling of immunomodulation and angiogenesis, which optimizes subsequent bone regeneration. These findings highlight the significance of biomimetic heterogeneous electrical cues on immune‐modulation and provide a design principle for future electroactive implant materials.
The CoNi@C/Mo1.33C i‐MXene Derived from Novel (Mo2/3R1/3)2GaC (R = Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, and Lu) Nanolaminations for Electrochemical Application in Electrocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution and Supercapacitance
Authors: Chen Zhaohui , Liao Yunxiang , Chong He , Guo Hongyun , Li Qiang , Cui Weibin
Published: December 2024

2D Mo1.33C i‐MXene is highly promising for electrochemical applications. Here, a synthetic strategy is reported, enabling the uniform distribution of carbon‐coated CoNi (CoNi@C) nanoparticles on the vacancy‐ordered Mo1.33C i‐MXene nanosheets, thereby fully exposing the active sites of CoNi@C. First, five novel Ga‐containing (Mo2/3R1/3)2GaC (R = Dy, Ho, Er, Tm, and Lu) i‐MAX phases are synthesized as the precursor and found to be crystallized into Cmcm structure, followed by hydrothermal etching and delamination. Subsequently, CoNi– MOF is in situ grown on derived Mo1.33C i‐MXene nanosheets. By modifying the loading mass and annealing condition, CoNi–MOF is transformed into the CoNi@C and the CoNi@C/Mo1.33C displayed outstanding hydrogen evolution reaction activity with low overpotential (73 mV at 10 mA cm−2) and small Tafel slope (84 mV dec−1). Moreover, the gravimetric capacitance is also increased from 68 F g−1 in CoNi@C to 575.1 F g−1 in CoNi@C/Mo1.33C‐50 at 0.5 A g−1. After ≈5000 cycles, activation is complete, and the specific capacitance reaches its maximum value. Additionally, the specific capacitance remains stable at 95% after additional 10 000 cycles. This work improves the catalytic and supercapacitor performance of composite nanomaterials by optimizing the distribution of active sites on Mo1.33C i‐MXene, and also extends the application of Mo1.33C i‐MXene.
In‐Situ Grafting Strategy Enables Functional Separator for Advanced Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Yi Wen‐Jun , Niu Bo , Hu Huamin , Liu Chang , Qin Chao , Li Jian , Niu Chao‐Qun , Li Li‐Jun , Chao Zi‐Sheng , Zou Guoqiang
Published: December 2024

A functional separator is developed by in‐situ grafting nickel tetraaminophthalocyanine (NiTAPc) onto the surface of polypropylene (PP). It is applied to inhibit the shuttle effect of polysulfides (PSs) in lithium‐sulfur(Li‐S) batteries. The characterization results showed that NiTAPc is highly dispersed and uniformly grafted onto PP separator. In‐situ grafting strategy effectively mitigates the self‐agglomeration issue associated with NiTAPc and enhances the exposure of catalytically active Ni‐N4 sites. These sites exhibit excellent adsorption and conversion capabilities for PSs. This is consistent with the results of theory calculations, which indicate that the presence of NiTAPc can reduce the delithiation energy barrier associated with Li2S conversion. Owing to the excellent inhibition ability of NiTAPc on the shuttle effect of PSs, the Li‐S battery employing a PP‐NiTAPc separator demonstrates excellent cycle stability. It shows an initial specific capacity of 1256.5 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, and a capacity retention of 582.4 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 1 C, showcasing a minimal decay rate of 0.0547% per cycle. The strategy adopted in this study offers valuable insights for the development of modified separators for rechargeable batteries and other energy storage fields.
Construction of CdIn2S4/MXene‐TiO2 Z‐Scheme Heterojunction for High‐Gain Organic Photoelectrochemical Transistor to Achieve Maximized Transconductance at Zero Bias
Authors: Zhang Haowei , Zhou Yunlei , Zhang Miao , Yin Huanshun , Hu Yixin , Yin Zhidong , Ai Shiyun
Published: December 2024

Interfacial charge‐carrier complexation is a bottleneck problem governing the gating effect of organic photoelectrochemical transistor (OPECT) biosensors. Therefore, it has long been desired to enhance the OPECT gating effect and realize the maximum transconductance at zero bias. In this study, an in situ engineered heterojunction gating and nano‐enzymatic catalytic integration of OPECT‐colorimetric dual‐mode sensing platform is developed for dibutyl phthalate detection. Specifically, highly efficient photoactive CdIn2S4/MXene‐TiO2 Z‐scheme heterojunction is constructed by two‐step in situ engineering to promote effective separation of electron–hole pairs to achieve sensitive gating of poly(ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonate)‐based OPECT. Target‐induced rolling circle amplification is used as the signal amplification unit, and Ag@Carbon Sphere (Ag─CS) is used as the signal conditioning element, which on the one hand causes shunting of photogenerated electrons, leading to energy transfer and reduced gating. At the same time, Ag─CS acts as a peroxidase‐mimicking nanozyme to oxidize the TMB discoloration. Importantly, the prepared sensor exhibits good selectivity and high sensitivity for the detection of dibutyl phthalate with a detection limit of 0.08 fM and also shows superior detection ability in real water bodies. Therefore, the sensor provides an ideal choice for toxic molecule detection and has a promising application in environmental monitoring and food analysis.
Regulation of Interface Schottky Barrier and Photoelectric Properties in Carbon‐Based HTL‐Free Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Da Shi‐Ji , Liu Wen‐Wu , Li Cai‐Xia , Lei Yi‐Xiao , Ran Fen
Published: December 2024

Carbon‐based hole transport layer (HTL)‐free perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) receive a lot of attention because of their simplified preparation technology, low price, and good hydrophobicity. However, the Schottky junction formed at the interface between perovskite and carbon poles affects the photogenerated carrier extraction and conversion efficiency. In this paper, 4‐trifluoromethyl‐2‐pyridinecarboxylic acid (TPCA) is used to modify the perovskite films. The introduction of TPCA can reduce the p‐type Schottky barrier height (p‐SBH) and thin the Schottky barrier width W, which greatly improves the hole transport ability and tunneling probability. Meanwhile, the n‐type Schottky barrier height (n‐SBH) shows a rising trend, which prevents the reverse electron transport to carbon, suppresses unnecessary carrier complexes, and greatly improves the device's optoelectronic performance. Besides, the pyridine nitrogen and C = O in TPCA interact with Pb2+ to raise the crystal quality of perovskite films while inhibiting nonradiative recombination. The results show that compared with the pristine device's 11.45% photoelectric conversion efficiency （PCE), the TPCA‐modified device achieves 13.64% PCE. The device's long‐term stability significantly improved post‐TPCA modification. After 720 h of storage at room temperature and 40–60% relative humidity in the air, the unencapsulated device retained 77% of its initial efficiency.
High Tribo‐Charge Density Composite Nanofiber Membrane for Motion Sensing and Water Wave Energy Harvesting
Authors: Zhao Xue Jiao , Zhao Zhi Hao , Wang Zhong Lin , Zhu Guang , Wang Jie
Published: December 2024

Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs), among the most simple and efficient means to harvest mechanical energy, have great potential in renewable energy utilization. While the output performance of TENGs is still not high enough, which limits its practical application. Here, a poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF)/fluorinated ethylene propylene nanoparticles (FEP NPs) porous nanofiber (PFPN) membrane with waterproof, breathable, surface superhydrophobic and high tribo‐negative properties is proposed for achieving high‐performance of TENGs. The PFPN‐based solid–solid contact PFPN‐TENG achieved an optimal electric output with a net tribo‐charge density of 294 µC m−2, which is 42.2% more than that of polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) film. The PFNP membrane can maintain the best performance with almost no attenuation after 142680 working cycles. Based on its excellent triboelectric characteristics, the PFPN membrane shows its excellent performance for self‐powered body motion sensing and mechanical energy harvesting. A flexible solid–liquid contact PFPN‐TENG can achieve high electrical output with an average volume power density of ≈544.1 W m−3 by harvesting water wave energy. Such excellent performance of the PFPN membrane makes it a potential candidate to promote the power density of TENGs in harvesting blue water wave energy.