bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary history of the vertebrate Piwi gene family
Authors: Gutierrez Javier , Platt Roy , Opazo Juan C. , Ray David A. , Hoffmann Federico , Vandewege Michael
Published: November 2021

PIWIs are regulatory proteins that belong to the Argonaute family. Piwis are primarily expressed in gonads and protect the germline against the mobilization and propagation of transposable elements (TEs) through transcriptional gene silencing. Vertebrate genomes encode up to four Piwi genes: Piwil1, Piwil2, Piwil3 and Piwil4, but their duplication history is unresolved. We leveraged phylogenetics, synteny and expression analyses to address this void. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests Piwil1 and Piwil2 were retained in all vertebrate members. Piwil4 was the result of Piwil1 duplication in the ancestor of gnathostomes, but was independently lost in ray-finned fishes and birds. Further, Piwil3 was derived from a tandem Piwil1 duplication in the common ancestor of marsupial and placental mammals, but was secondarily lost in Atlantogenata (Xenarthra and Afrotheria) and some rodents. The evolutionary rate of Piwil3 is considerably faster than any Piwi among all lineages, but an explanation is lacking. Our expression analyses suggest Piwi expression has mostly been constrained to gonads throughout vertebrate evolution. Vertebrate evolution is marked by two early rounds of whole genome duplication and many multigene families are linked to these events. However, our analyses suggest Piwi expansion was independent of whole genome duplications.
GERMINAÇÃO DO EUCALIPTO E ESPÉCIES BIOINDICADORAS SOB O USO DE DOIS BIOFERTILIZANTES
Authors: Bitencourt Gislayne De Araujo , Lopes Costa Suzana , Iavorski Junior João Maria , Barba Algarve Brendha , Moreira da Silva de Arruda Rosana
Published: November 2021

Os biofertilizantes apresentam-se como uma alternativa de aproveitamento dos dejetos animais como fertilizantes na agricultura. Com base nisso, objetivou-se avaliar o efeito de dois biofertilizantes de origem animal tratados em biodigestor por meio de teste ecotoxicológico utilizando as espécies bioindicadoras Allium cepa L. (cebola); Eruca sativa L. (rúcula) e Lactuca sativa L.(alface) para posteriormente testar a mesma metodologia em Eucalyptus camaldulensis Dean. (eucalipto) empregando os métodos de germinação e crescimento de plântulas. Para tanto, soluções com o sobrenadante dos biofertilizantes em concentrações de: 0; 12,5; 25; 50; 75 e 100% foram preparadas. Para avaliar a germinação, vinte sementes de cada espécie foram acondicionadas em uma caixa gerbox contendo papel filtro, umedecido com a solução de biofertilizante. Os testes foram realizados com três repetições, distribuídas em um delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC) em fatorial 6x2x3, com temperatura controlada a 25 ºC e fotoperíodo de 12 horas, por cinco dias. Para o eucalipto aplicou-se a mesma metodologia, em DIC fatorial 6x2, utilizando 0,10 g de sementes, a 28 ºC, por 14 dias. Não foram verificados efeitos de toxicidade sobre a germinação e o crescimento inicial das plântulas de alface e rúcula. No eucalipto, a solução contendo 100% de biofertilizante ovino promoveu aumento no crescimento das plântulas.
ESCARIFICAÇÕES QUÍMICAS NA SUPERAÇÃO DE DORMÊNCIA DE BUCHENAVIA TOMENTOSA
Authors: Vieira Cristiane Ramos , Araujo Maicon Marinho Vieira , Soares Joás Dos Santos , De Veiga Bruno Conceição
Published: November 2021

A tarumarana (Buchenavia tomentosa Eichler) é uma espécie típica de Cerrado, que pode ser utilizada na sua restauração florestal. Porém, produzir mudas dessa espécie requer, primeiramente, conhecer o método mais eficiente para a superação da dormência de suas sementes. Diante disso, foram desenvolvidos experimentos para avaliar as escarificações ácida e salina, como métodos para a superação da dormência de pirênios de tarumarana. Foram dois experimentos: o primeiro com escarificação com ácido sulfúrico (H2SO4), nos tempos T0 – sem escarificação; T1 – por 10 minutos; T2 – por 20 minutos; T3 – por 30 minutos; e T4 – por 40 minutos, e o segundo com pré-embebição em solução salina de nitrato de potássio (KNO3), T0 – sem embebição; T1 – a 0,1% por 10 minutos; T2 – a 0,2% por 20 minutos; T3 – a 0,3% por 30 minutos; e T4 – a 0,4% por 40 minutos. Estes ensaios foram realizados em laboratório pertencente � Universidade de Cuiabá, em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (DIC), com os pirênios de tarumarana. Para compor os tratamentos foram utilizados 20 pirênios (em cada tratamento - tempo), cada qual com cinco repetições. As variáveis utilizadas para caracterizar a eficiência dos métodos foram: índice de velocidade de germinação (IVG), tempo médio de germinação (TMG), velocidade média de germinação (VMG), germinação (G), altura das plantas (H), diâmetro das plantas (DC). Verificou-se que, a imersão em H2SO4 não foi eficiente. No entanto, a pré-embebição em KNO3 proporcionou até 85% de germinação, sendo recomendado, nas condições de KNO3 0,2% por 20 minutos ou KNO3 0,3% por 30 minutos.
Trend in Area, Production and Yield of Coffee in India
Authors: Prabha S. Aruna , Sivakumar S. D. , Murugananthi D. , Joel A. John
Published: November 2021

Coffee, a predominant plantation crop is a highly traded commodity and mostly consumed as a hot beverage. India stands seventh among the world coffee producing countries. Consumption is higher in south India. India grows Arabica and Robusta coffee. Consumption of coffee in India increased at 2 percent per annum till 2020 and after that there was 5 per cent growth rate (ShrutiArun, 2020). The present study was proposed with the objective of studying the trend in area, production, yield of Arabica and Robusta coffee in India and Tamil Nadu and predicting the same. Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) Analysis was used to find the trend in area, production and yield of coffee. Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was used for forecasting the area and production of Arabica and Robusta in India till 2025. Area, production, yield of Arabica and Robusta coffee in India showed a positive trend. A negative trend was observed in productivity of Arabica coffee in India. Whereas in Tamil Nadu, area of Arabica and Robusta coffee showed positive trend, a negative trend was seen in production and productivity of Arabica and Robusta. ARIMA (1, 1, 1) for Arabica and ARIMA (1, 1, 0) found to provide best fit for predicting the area and production of Robusta coffee in India.
Synthesis and Characterization of Pectin Beads for the Smart Delivery of Agrochemicals
Authors: Pavithran P. , Marimuthu S. , Chinnamuthu C. R. , Lakshmanan A. , Bharathi C. , Kadhiravan S.
Published: November 2021

Aim: The study was conducted to design pectin beads for achieving slow release of agrochemicals in wetlands via ion gelation method.

Place and Duration of the Study: The laboratory experiment was carried out at the Department of Nano Science & Technology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Tamil Nadu during March-July 2021.

Methodology: Pectin beads were synthesized varying the concentrations of pectin (4, 6, 8, and 10 per cent) and calcium chloride (CaCl2) concentrations (0.5, 1, and 2 per cent). Calcium pectinate beads of different combinations were synthesized via ion gelation method. Calcium pectinate beads were characterized based on the recovery yield of beads, while surface characterization was done through Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and optical microscope to understand the topography of beads and assess the size of the beads respectively. Pore volume and surface area were also studied using BET (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller) analyzer.

Results: The yield of calcium pectinate beads were higher while using the concentration of pectin @ 4 per cent and CaCl2 @ 2 per cent as cross-linking agent. The spherical and smooth surface of beads was achieved with the concentrations of 6 and 2 per cent pectin and CaCl2 respectively, while beads were flat and smooth with concentration of pectin @ 4 per cent. Similarly, complete solubility of pectin was not achieved with concentrations of 8 and 10 per cent. BET results of beads showed that beads are non-porous in nature.

Conclusion: Pectin and CaCl2 concentrations @ 6 and 2 per cent respectively were found to be ideal for the delivery of agrochemical based on the yield and surface morphology.
Gravitatsionnaya samoregulyarizatsiya kvantovih poley na plankovskih rasstoyaniyah
Authors:   Centre for Theoretical Physics and Astrophysics, Zakir Zahid
Published: November 2021

Петлевые диаграммы с энергиями, близкими к энергии Планка, создают сильное внешнее гравитационное поле, которое замедляет темп локальных процессов для удалённых наблюдателей вплоть до их застывания. Поскольку планковская длина - это гравитационный радиус системы квантов, события этого и меньшего масштаба не могут произойти за конечное мировое время t и не вносят вклад в S-матрицу. Следовательно, гравитационное замедление времени, ведущее к сильному красному смещению собственных частот, ведёт к гравитационной саморегуляризации петлевых диаграмм. Петлевые поправки без гравитационных эффектов, обрезаемые на энергии Планка, дают верхние границы для поправок с гравитационными эффектами, и этот факт ведёт к простым правилам гравитационной регуляризации. Поправки с квантами калибровочных полей и гравитонов малы, и ряды теории возмущений сходятся. При до-планковских энергиях достаточно однопетлевых гравитонных вкладов, так как многопетлевые вклады подавлены большими степенями отношения «энергия/планковская энергия». Скалярное поле со степенными вкладами должно быть эффективным полем. Нелинейность полей усиливает гравитацию и ускоряет застывание, что подавляет высокоэнергетические вклады. Неперенормируемые модели конечны, но становятся состоятельными только если их петлевые поправки остаются малыми в масштабе Планка, что и имеет место в квантовой гравитации. Гравитационно-регуляризованная Расширенная Стандартная Модель (РСМ), включающая гравитоны и Стандартную Модель с эффективными скалярами, перенормируема и конечна, что упрощает её дальнейшее обобщение.
Insights into the renal pathophysiology in Hermansky‐Pudlak syndrome‐1 from urinary extracellular vesicle proteomics and a new mouse model
Authors: Maynard Dawn M. , Gochuico Bernadette R. , Pri Chen Hadass , Bleck Christopher K. E. , Zerfas Patricia M. , Introne Wendy J. , Gahl William A. , Malicdan May C. V.
Published: December 2024

Hermansky‐Pudlak syndrome type 1 (HPS‐1) is a rare, autosomal recessive disorder caused by defects in the biogenesis of lysosome‐related organelles complex‐3 (BLOC‐3). Impaired kidney function is among its clinical manifestations. To investigate HPS‐1 renal involvement, we employed 1D‐gel‐LC–MS/MS and compared the protein composition of urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) from HPS‐1 patients to normal control individuals. We identified 1029 proteins, 149 of which were altered in HPS‐1 uEVs. Ingenuity Pathway Analysis revealed disruptions in mitochondrial function and the LXR/RXR pathway that regulates lipid metabolism, which is supported by our novel Hps1 knockout mouse. Serum concentration of the LXR/RXR pathway protein ApoA1 in our patient cohort was positively correlated with kidney function (with the estimated glomerular filtration rate or eGFR). uEVs can be used to study epithelial cell protein trafficking in HPS‐1 and may provide outcome measures for HPS‐1 therapeutic interventions.
Cell cycle‐dependent regulation of CRISPR‐Cas9 repetitive activation by anti‐CRISPR and Cdt1 fusion in the CRISPRa system
Authors: Kishi Kanae , Nigorikawa Kiyomi , Hasegawa Yuki , Ohta Yusaku , Matsugi Erina , Matsumoto Daisuke , Nomura Wataru
Published: December 2024

CRISPR‐Cas9 is a widely used genome‐editing tool. We previously developed a method with improved homology‐directed repair efficiency and reduced off‐target effects by utilizing a fusion protein of AcrIIA4, a Cas9 inhibitor, and Cdt1, which accumulates in the G1 phase and activates Cas9 only in the S/G2 phase. However, it is unknown whether Cas9 inhibition by AcrIIA4 + Cdt1 occurs repeatedly in the G1 phase as the cell cycle progresses. In this study, we used the CRISPRa system to monitor changes in the interaction between Cas9 and AcrIIA4 + Cdt1 at single‐cell resolution and in real time. Our findings are among the few examples of successful detection of fluctuating protein–protein interactions that oscillate over time.
Cryo‐Electrochemical Deposition of Gold Single Atoms on G‐C3N4 for Photoelectrochemical Water Reduction
Authors: Zhou Xue , Xu Dawei , Huang Jing , Tong Shijun , Qiao Panzhe , Zhang Zhonghai
Published: December 2024

The pursuit of sustainable energy has intensified the exploration of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier, with photoelectrocatalytic water reduction emerging as a green approach to harness solar energy. Graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4), recognized for its stability and non‐toxicity, presents limitations in photoconversion efficiency due to rapid electron‐hole recombination and narrow light absorption range. To address these challenges, herein, a cryo‐electrochemical deposition strategy is introduced to synthesize g‐C3N4 loaded with gold single‐atom catalysts (Au1), enhancing charge separation and light absorption. The atomic dispersion of Au1 on g‐C3N4 significantly elevates photoelectrocatalytic hydrogen production, achieving a record yield rate on the Au1(14.5%)/g‐C3N4 sample. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations and comprehensive characterizations reveal the role of Au1 in modulating the electronic structure and improving charge carrier dynamics. The findings underscore the potential of single‐atom catalysis in advancing photoelectrocatalytic water reduction systems for solar energy conversion and clean energy production.
A 2D sp2 Carbon Conjugated Pyrene Covalent Organic Framework with TEMPO for Selective Photocatalysis
Authors: Hao Huimin , Zhang Fulin , Wang Xiaoxiao , Huang Fengwei , Chen Shengli , Lang Xianjun
Published: December 2024

With recent developments, covalent organic frameworks (COFs) have attracted considerable attention in various applications, including visible light photocatalysis. Considering the properties of pyrene planum and π‐electron conjugation, 2D sp2 carbon‐conjugated and imine‐linked pyrene COFs, Py‐sp2c‐COF and Py‐COF are synthesized with a well‐ordered crystalline structure. Py‐sp2c‐COF is significantly superior to Py‐COF for selective photocatalysis due to the sp2 carbon conjugation. By virtue of the porosity and activity, Py‐sp2c‐COF with TEMPO ((2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)oxyl) turns out to be effective for selective aerobic oxidation of amines to imines induced by green light. Substantially, 2 mol% of TEMPO, an electron–proton transfer mediator, facilitates the aerobic conversions of amines by Py‐sp2c‐COF photocatalysis. It is an ingenious design for selective organic transformations by cooperative photocatalysis of an sp2 carbon‐conjugated COF with a redox mediator.
Wearable, Recoverable, and Implantable Energy Storage Devices With Heterostructure Porous COF‐5/Ti3C2Tx Cathode for High‐performance Aqueous Zn‐ion Hybrid Capacitor
Authors: Xie Panpan , Zhang Yu , Man Zengming , Zhou Jianhua , Zhang Yongzhe , Lu Wangyang , Dong Heng , Wu Guan
Published: December 2024

With the continuous advancement of the internet of things and information technology, implantable bioelectronics have attracted considerable attention for effective health monitoring and improvement of vital signs. Nevertheless, conventional power sources are typically plagued by short lifetimes, inflexible packaging modalities, and toxic corrosion risks that damage soft tissues. In this study, a biocompatible quasi‐solid‐state aqueous Zn‐ion hybrid capacitor (AZIHCs) is developed with high energy density and durability. The heterostructured porous COF‐5/Ti3C2Tx cathode exhibited enhanced interface charge transfer and accelerated Zn2+ migration kinetics, delivering an outstanding areal capacitance of 952 mF cm−2 and a high areal energy density of 160 mWh cm−2. Furthermore, the AZIHCs demonstrated a high reversible capacity of 524 mF cm⁻2, and the completely damaged device can still power the electronics after being reconnected using the superior silk nanofiber‐containing zwitterionic hydrogel electrolyte. These implanted AZIHCs, with good biocompatibility, showed substantial deformation stability of 80.2% after 2000 cycles when firmly adhered to the tissues, illustrating an impressively stable performance in the tissue fluid or wetted tissue surface and an efficient power supply. This study provides a novel approach to high‐performance energy storage devices for multifunctional wearable applications and organism patches for in vivo detection.
Uncovering Astrocyte Morphological Dynamics Using Optical Diffraction Tomography and Shape‐Based Trajectory Inference
Authors: Anantha Pooja , Raj Piyush , Saracino Emanuela , Kim Joo Ho , Kim Jeong Hee , Convertino Annalisa , Gu Luo , Barman Ishan
Published: December 2024

Astrocytes, integral components of the central nervous system, are increasingly recognized for their multifaceted roles beyond support cells. Despite their acknowledged importance, understanding the intricacies of astrocyte morphological dynamics remains limited. Our study marks the first exploration of astrocytes using optical diffraction tomography (ODT), establishing a label‐free, quantitative method to observe morphological changes in astrocytes over a 7‐day in‐vitro period. ODT offers quantitative insights into cell volume, dry mass, and area through label‐free, real‐time measurements‐capabilities that are challenging to achieve with conventional imaging techniques. Through comprehensive analysis of 3D refractive index maps and shape characterization techniques, we capture the developmental trajectory and dynamic morphological transformations of astrocytes. Specifically, our observations reveal increased area and a transition to larger, flattened shapes, with alterations in cell volume and density, indicating shifts in cellular composition. By employing unsupervised clustering and pseudotime trajectory analysis, we introduce a novel morphological trajectory inference for neural cells, tracking the morphological evolution of astrocytes from elongated to evenly spread shapes. This analysis marks the first use of trajectory inference based solely on morphology for neural cell types, laying a foundation for future studies employing ODT to examine astrocyte dynamics and neural cell interactions across diverse substrates.
Bond Confinement‐Dependent Peierls Distortion in Epitaxially Grown Bismuth Films
Authors: Hoff Felix , Kerres Peter , Veslin Timo , Jalil Abdur Rehman , Schmidt Thomas , Ritarossi Simone , Köttgen Jan , Bothe Lucas , Frank Jonathan , Schön Carl‐Friedrich , Xu Yazhi , Kim Dasol , Mertens Julian , Mayer Joachim , Mazzarello Riccardo , Wuttig Matthias
Published: December 2024

A systematic study of the impact of film thickness on the properties of thin Bi films is presented. To this end, epitaxial films of high quality have been grown on a Si (111) substrate with thicknesses ranging from 1.9 to 29.9 nm. Broadband optical spectroscopy reveals a notable decline in the optical dielectric constant and the absorption peak height as the film thickness decreases, alongside a shift of the absorption maximum to higher photon energies. Raman and pump‐probe spectroscopy show that the phonon mode frequencies increase upon decreasing film thickness, with the in‐plane mode frequency rising by 10% from the thickest to the thinnest sample. The X‐ray diffraction analysis reveals an increasing Peierls distortion for thinner films, explaining the observed property changes. Quantum chemical bonding analysis and density functional theory calculations show that the properties of thin bismuth are influenced by the interplay between electron localization and delocalization, characteristic of metavalently bonded solids. This study shows that for solids that utilize metavalent bonding, a thickness reduction leads to significant property changes. The effect can even be employed to tailor material properties without the need to change material stoichiometry.
Controlled Stratification and Assembly of Cellulose Nanocrystals in Polymeric Films Toward Optically Active Coatings
Authors: Khelifa Farid , Ehmann Heike M. A. , Lamaoui Abderrahman , Surin Mathieu , Rubio‐Magnieto Jenifer , Dubois Philippe , Habibi Youssef
Published: December 2024

Nature's most brilliant hues arise from the interaction of light with multilayered‐ structures of aligned building blocks. Mimicking this hierarchical organization in highly‐ordered thin films of liquid crystalline species has attracted increasing attention for potential applications in sensors and optical switching displays. Due to its intriguing ability to organize into optically active materials, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are attracting a strong interest in the scientific community. This study demonstrates that the shear‐driven convective assembly technique can be used to stratify in a controlled fashion highly ordered multilayers of rod‐like CNC embedded in a protective hydrophobic polymer matrix leading to optically active thin films. The films remain fully transparent even after stratifying 50 layers. Atomic force microscopy analysis reveals that over 87% of the CNCs in the upper layer aligned within ±20° of the withdrawal direction. Notably, the stratification does not disrupt the organization of the underlying layers. The films exhibit strong selective reflections with uniform and intense colors, dependent on the number of stratified layers. This scalable appraoch enables precise control over the optical characteristics of CNC‐polymer composite films, presenting opportunities for environmentally friendly applications in pigment‐free coatings, security papers, and optical devices.
Direct Optical Probing of the Magnetic Properties of the Layered Antiferromagnet CrPS4
Authors: Fąs Tomasz , Wlazło Mateusz , Birowska Magdalena , Rybak Miłosz , Zinkiewicz Małgorzata , Oleschko Leon , Goryca Mateusz , Gondek Łukasz , Camargo Bruno , Szczytko Jacek , Budniak Adam K. , Amouyal Yaron , Lifshitz Efrat , Suffczyński Jan
Published: December 2024

The unusual magnetic properties of van der Waals‐type antiferromagnetic semiconductors such as transition metal thiophosphates make them highly attractive for spintronics and optoelectronics. However, a link between the magnetic and optical properties of these materials, required for practical applications, has not yet been established. A combined experimental and theoretical study of magnetic, optical, and structural properties of CrPS4 samples is reported. It is found that the magnetic‐field‐dependent circular polarization degree of the photoluminescence is a direct measure of the net magnetization of CrPS4. Complementary Raman scattering measured as a function of magnetic field and temperature enables the determination of the magnetic susceptibility curve of the material. Experimental results are supported by density functional theory calculations that take as input the lattice parameters determined from temperature‐dependent X‐ray diffraction measurements. This allows the impact of spin ordering on the spectral position of Raman transitions in CrPS4 to be explained, as well as the anomalous temperature shifts of some of them. The presented method for all‐optical determination of magnetic properties is highly promising for studies of spin ordering and magnetic phase transitions in single‐ or few‐layer samples of magnetic layered materials, for which a poor signal‐to‐noise ratio precludes reliable neutron scattering or magnetometry measurements.
Elucidating the Role of Addenda and Hydrogen Atoms on the Acidity of Heteropolyacid to Produce Butyl Levulinate as a Green Diesel Additive
Authors: Ahmad Khwaja Alamgir , Znad Hussein , Ahmad Ejaz
Published: December 2024

The present study explores the synthesis of butyl levulinate (BL), a green diesel additive, using vanadium‐incorporated Keggin phosphomolybdic acid (HPVM) catalysts. This study highlights the effect of addenda and hydrogen atoms on HPVM catalysts for BL production, thereby elucidating a correlation between addenda atoms, HPVM acidity, and BL yield. The catalysts are characterized using Raman spectroscopy, FTIR, XRD, ammonia‐TPD, SEM‐EDX, and ICP‐OES techniques to determine their structural properties, acidity, and elemental composition. Reaction parameters, including time, temperature, catalyst concentration, stirring rate, and solvent volume, are systematically evaluated to optimize the conversion of levulinic acid (LA) to BL. A significant BL yield (>96%) is obtained using 25 wt.% H4PMo11VO40 (H4PVM) catalyst at 100 °C in 40 min. Kinetic analysis unveiled a pseudo‐first‐order reaction mechanism for BL synthesis with activation energies of 66.73, 68.81, and 71.19 kJ.mol−1 for H4PMo11VO40 (H4PVM), H5PMo10V2O40 (H5PVM), and H6PMo9V3O40 (H6PVM) catalysts, respectively. Additionally, thermodynamic parameters, such as enthalpy of activation (ΔH*), entropy of activation (ΔS*), and Gibbs free energy of activation (ΔG*), are determined. Overall, this study highlights the complex interplay between acidity, activation energy, and BL yield, emphasizing the significance of the number of vanadium addenda atoms in catalyst performance.
Multifaceted Immunomodulatory Nanocomplexes Target Neutrophilic‐ROS Inflammation in Acute Lung Injury
Authors: Su Fan , Zhang Chong , Zhang Qianyun , Shen Yi , Li Saiqi , Shi Jianlin , Zhu Ya‐Xuan , Lin Han , He Bin
Published: December 2024

The sepsis‐induced acute lung injury (ALI) still represents one of the leading causes of death in critically ill patients, underscoring the need for novel therapies. Excessive activation of immune cells and damage of reactive oxygen species (ROS) are the main factors that exacerbate lung injury. Here, the multifaceted immunomodulatory nanocomplexes targeting the proinflammatory neutrophilic activation and ROS damage are established. The S100A8/9 inhibitor, ABR2575, is loaded in the nanocomplexes, which effectively blocks the neutrophils‐S100A8/A9‐ toll‐like receptors (TLRS)‐Inflammasome signaling in ALI. Synergically, the SiH nanosheets are encapsulated together with ABR2575 into the core of poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanosponges, to achieve sustainable hydrogen release for the alleviation of ROS‐induced lung tissue injury, and also promote the M2 polarization of macrophages. This novel combination strategy is proven to significantly suppress the infiltration of neutrophils and pro‐inflammatory macrophages into the lungs, decrease the activation of neutrophils and pro‐inflammatory monocytes in the blood, facilitate the anti‐inflammatory polarization of macrophages and monocytes, and reduce the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in both the lung and blood circulation, all of which alleviate the lung injuries in preclinical murine ALI models. The current investigations offer a novel nanomedicine for the treatment of ALI with great potential in clinical invention.
Freely Selective Analog and Digital Resistive Switching Behavior of In2Se3 Devices for Storage and Neuromorphic Applications
Authors: Tian Siying , Wang Changhao , Wang Yuanjie , Wang Honghao , Gao Chenxi , Hu Weisen , Wei Jia , Chen Fengling , Sun Dapeng , Zheng Xu , Li Chaobo , Yin Chujun
Published: December 2024

Digital storage and analog storage shine in different fields mainly due to their strong stability and high information density, respectively, while the freely selective digital and analog resistance switching applications are a matter of great concern. Here, a multi‐functional device integrated with analog and digital resistive switching behavior in a simple structure is reported, achieving functions of freely selective non‐volatile digital storage, artificial synaptic behavior based on ferroelectric polarization‐inducing analog resistive switching behavior, neural network computing, and reconfigurable logic functions. The non‐volatile digital memory exhibits a low operating voltage (≈1—2 V) and high retention stability (> 2000 s). The analog resistive switching behavior exhibits 128‐level conductance and excellent artificial synaptic performance with a large dynamic range (≈196), high linearity (≈0.84), and low power consumption. The modulation effect of band bending, an often underappreciated yet crucial element, is considered to analyze the mechanisms behind the optimized device performance, further providing support and expansion for the multifunctional applications of In2Se3 devices. Reconfigurable logic functions and an artificial neural network (ANN) with outline learning accuracy (≈89%) for handwritten digit recognition are achieved. This design provides new insights into the analysis of 2D ferroelectric devices and holds great promise for simplified and multi‐functional storage‐computing devices.
Boon and Bane of Local Solid State Chemistry on the Performance of LSM‐Based Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cells
Authors: Türk Hanna , Tran Xuan Quy , König Patricia , Hammud Adnan , Vibhu Vaibhav , Schmidt Franz‐Philipp , Berger Dirk , Selve Sören , Roddatis Vladimir , Abou‐Ras Daniel , Girgsdies Frank , Chan Yu‐Te , Götsch Thomas , Ali Hebatallah , Vinke Izaak C. , de Haart L.G.J (Bert) , Lehmann Michael , Knop‐Gericke Axel , Reuter Karsten , Eichel Rüdiger‐A. , Scheurer Christoph , Lunkenbein Thomas
Published: December 2024

High‐temperature solid oxide cells are highly efficient energy converters. However, their lifetime is limited by rapid deactivation. Little is known about the local, atomic scale transformation that drive this degradation. Here, reaction‐induced changes are unraveled at the atomic scale of a solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) operated for 550 h by combining high‐resolution scanning transmission electron microscopy with first‐principles and force‐field‐based atomistic simulations. We focus on the structural evolution of lanthanum strontium manganite (LSM)/yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) regions and the corresponding solid–solid interface. It is found that the strong inter‐diffusion of cations leads to the additional formation and growth of a multitude of localized structures such as a solid solution of La/Mn, nano‐domains of secondary structures or antisite defects in the YSZ, as well as a mixed ion and electron conduction region in the LSM and complexion. These local structures can be likewise beneficial or detrimental to the performance, by either increasing the catalytically active area or by limiting the supply of reactants. The work provides unprecedented atomistic insights into the influence of local solid‐state chemistry on the functioning of SOECs and deepens the understanding of the degradation mechanism in SOECs, paving the way towards nanoscopic rational interface design for more efficient and durable cells.
Biphasic models improved S‐metolachlor dissipation endpoint predictions
Authors: Kouame Koffi Badou‐Jeremie , Savin Mary C. , Willett Cammy D. , Butts Thomas R. , Grantz Erin , Bertucci Matthew B. , Robinson Samantha E. , Werle Rodrigo , Roma‐Burgos Nilda
Published: December 2024

Accurate predictions of herbicide dissipation endpoints are essential for making environmental management decisions, estimating the duration of weed control, and deciding crop replant and rotation options. The performance of the single first‐order (SFO), first‐order multiple‐compartment (FOMC), bi‐exponential (BEXP), first‐order double‐exponential decay (FODED), and first‐order two‐compartment (FOTC) was evaluated to describe S‐metolachlor dissipation. Results showed that the BEXP and FOTC were not appropriate. The FODED was ranked as the top model with the lowest Akaike's information criterion (AICc) value among the other three candidate models and was followed by the FOMC model. The SFO displayed the largest root mean square error (11.43) and mean absolute error (9.16) values, and the smallest Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency value (0.88) within the set of three appropriate candidate models. The SFO predicted a time it takes the herbicide to dissipate to one‐eighth of its original concentration, 21 and 26 days shorter than that predicted by the FOMC and FODED, respectively. The SFO also predicted a time for S‐metolachlor to dissipate to one‐tenth of its original concentration, 33 days shorter than that predicted by both FOMC and FODED. Therefore, even though the SFO is effective at predicting half‐life, caution might be required when making inferences about DT90 or the time required for the dissipation of 90% of the initial concentration of pesticides in the soil using the SFO.
Dry matter yield, persistence, nutritive value, and in situ dry matter degradability of non‐dormant alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) adapted to Florida
Authors: Lee Seongshin , Biswas Anju , Rios Esteban F. , Vyas Diwakar
Published: December 2024

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) production in the subtropics may increase forage yield and quality in livestock systems. This study evaluated the effects of seeding rate on dry matter yield (DMY), nutritive value (NV), and in situ degradability of non‐dormant alfalfa grown in Florida. The study was designed as a randomized complete block design with a two‐way‐factorial treatment arrangement with two seeding rates (20 and 27 kg ha−1 of pure live seed) and five genotypes: two breeding lines (UF_AlfPers_2015 and UF_AlfPers_2017) and three cultivars (Florida 77, Florida 99, and Bulldog 805). DMY was assessed between April 2019 and April 2021, and NV and neutral detergent fiber (uNDF) degradability are reported from two harvests, while in situ ruminal dry matter (DM) disappearance was measured for UF_AlfPers_2015 and Bulldog 805 only. Data were analyzed using GLIMMIX in SAS, and mean separation was performed by a Tukey test. No interaction was observed between seeding rate and genotypes for DMY, persistence, and NV. UF_AlfPers_2017 had the highest mean DMY per harvest (1424.5 kg ha−1) and stand persistence (76 plants m−2), and Bulldog 805 produced the lowest mean DMY per harvest (936.3 kg ha−1). Bulldog 805 had the lowest lignin concentration, the greatest net energy of lactation, greatest milk per metric ton of forage, and highest NDF degradability. Both the rate and extent of DM degradation were greater for Bulldog 805 compared to UF_AlfPers_2015. The cultivar Bulldog 805 is recommended for planting as it showed greater NV; however, new cultivars and breeding lines are being developed to increase DMY and stand persistence in Florida.
Resilience to Alzheimer's disease associates with alterations in perineuronal nets
Authors: de Vries Luuk E. , Bahnerth Anouck , Swaab Dick F. , Verhaagen Joost , Carulli Daniela
Published: December 2024

INTRODUCTION

Some individuals show intact cognition despite the presence of neuropathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The plasticity of parvalbumin (PV)‐containing interneurons might contribute to resilience. Perineuronal nets (PNNs), that is, extracellular matrix structures around neurons, modulate PV neuron function. We hypothesize that PNNs play a role in resilience to AD.

METHODS

PNN amount and morphology were determined in immunolabelled sections of the frontal cortex of control, AD and resilient subjects. Expression levels of genes related to PNNs and microglia signatures were evaluated by bulk RNA sequencing.

RESULTS

The expression of the PNN‐component aggrecan around PV neurons is decreased in resilient and AD subjects, whereas PNN‐sugar chains are reduced only in resilient subjects. In AD, fewer presynaptic terminals on PV neurons are detected and genes related to PNN degradation are upregulated.

DISCUSSION

These data show distinct PNN changes in individuals resilient to AD, which may contribute to preserved cognition despite the neuropathology.

Highlights

Aggrecan levels are decreased in the frontal cortex of AD and resilient subjects.

In resilient subjects, WFA+ PNNs are reduced around neuronal somata.

In AD patients, PV neurons show disrupted WFA peridendritic staining and synaptic loss.

Expression levels of PNN‐degrading enzymes are higher in AD.

Excitatory neurons bearing a PNN show low amounts of ptau.
Preparation and Alkali Resistance Research of Cyclotriphosphazene Based Hexa‐Imidazole Compound Functionalized Addition‐Type Polynorbornene Anion Exchange Membranes
Authors: Zhang Wenjun , He Xiaohui , Chen Defu , Feng Ling , Li Quan , Ye Jia , Fu Zhihui , Yu Nengquan , Huang Longming
Published: December 2024

Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) are extensively utilized across various domains due to their remarkable performance. Nonetheless, AEMs continue to encounter significant challenges related to thermal stability, alkaline stability, and ion conductivity. Advanced molecular design and the precise incorporation of functional groups are pivotal for enhancing their properties. In this work, norbornene monomer was produced from 5‐norbornene‐2‐methanol. One monomer featured an extensive alkyl side chain, while the other included a long bromine side chain. These monomers were subsequently used to synthesize a functional diblock polynorbornene copolymer. Finally, cyclotriphosphazene based hexa‐imidazole compounds were designed using cyclotriphosphazene groups and crosslinked with long, flexible side chains by the Menschutkin reaction. The flexible side chain structure and block structure effectively promoted phase separation, while the high concentration of imidazole ion groups facilitated aggregation into distinct ion domains. As a result, a series of anion exchange membranes (aPNB‐CTPP‐2MI‐x) fabricated using this approach demonstrated excellent ionic conductivity, alkaline, and heat resistance. Notably, the aPNB‐CTPP‐2MI‐1.75 membrane achieved an ionic conductivity exceeding 100 mS cm−1 at 80°C, with a swelling degree of only 11.96%. Even after 576 h of immersion in 1 M NaOH solution (80°C), the ionic conductivity remained above 86.83%.
A study of drag‐and‐drop query refinement and query history visualization for mobile exploratory search
Authors: Payandeh Mohammad Hasan , Hoeber Orland , Boon Miriam , Storie Dale , Ramshaw Veronica
Published: December 2024

When undertaking complex search scenarios, the underlying information need cannot be satisfied by finding a single optimal resource; instead, searchers need to engage in exploratory search processes to find multiple resources by iteratively revising and reformulation their queries. This process of query refinement is particularly challenging when using a mobile device, where typing is difficult. Furthermore, in mobile search contexts interruptions can lead to searchers losing track of what they were doing. To address these challenges, we designed a public digital library search interface for mobile devices that includes two novel features: drag‐and‐drop query refinement and query history visualization. To assess the value of this interface compared to a typical baseline, we conducted a controlled laboratory study with 32 participants that included pursuing complex search scenarios, being interrupted in the midst of the search, and resuming the search after the interruption. While participants took more time, they generated longer queries and reported positive subjective opinions about the usability of the exploratory search and task resumption features, along with a greater increase in certainty. These findings show the value of leveraging new touch‐based interaction mechanisms within mobile search contexts, and the benefits that visualization can bring to supporting search task resumption.
Harnessing Microbial Signal Transduction Systems in Natural and Synthetic Consortia for Biotechnological Applications
Authors: Zahir Ahmadullah , Okorie Peter A. , Nwobasi Veronica N. , David Esther I. , Nwankwegu Rita O. , Azi Fidelis
Published: December 2024

Signal transduction is crucial for communication and cellular response in microbial communities. Consortia rely on it for effective communication, responding to changing environmental conditions, establishing community structures, and performing collective behaviors. Microbial signal transduction can be through quorum sensing (QS), two‐component signal transduction systems, biofilm formation, nutrient sensing, chemotaxis, horizontal gene transfer stress response, and so forth. The consortium uses small signaling molecules in QS to regulate gene expression and coordinate intercellular communication and behaviors. Biofilm formation allows cells to adhere and aggregate, promoting species interactions and environmental stress resistance. Chemotaxis enables directional movement toward or away from chemical gradients, promoting efficient resource utilization and community organization within the consortium. In recent years, synthetic microbial consortia have gained attention for their potential applications in biotechnology and bioremediation. Understanding signal transduction in natural and synthetic microbial consortia is important for gaining insights into community dynamics, evolution, and ecological function. It can provide strategies for biotechnological innovation for enhancing biosensors, biodegradation, bioenergy efficiency, and waste reduction. This review provides compelling insight that will advance our understanding of microbial signal transduction dynamics and its role in orchestrating microbial interactions, which facilitate coordination, cooperation, gene expression, resource allocation, and trigger specific responses that determine community success.
Recent Progress of Artificial Cilia: From Bioinspired Design, Facile Fabrication to Practical Application†
Authors: Li Yingbo , Zhao Ran , Meng Jingxin
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

As well known, cilia play an irreplaceable role in sensing and movement of natural organisms because they can respond to external signals and generate net flow in complex environments. Based on these findings, scientists further explored the functions of natural cilia and have developed many artificial cilia in the past nearly thirty years. This review provides an overview of recent progress of artificial cilia. Firstly, we summarize the characteristics of natural cilia. Subsequently, we introduce the fabrication methods including template, magnetic assembly, lithography, and 3D printing. Then we discuss the stimulus actuation of artificial cilia from two major modes: contact control and remote control. In addition, five typical types of applications, including adhesion regulation, intelligent control, mobile microrobot, biological sensor and anti‐counterfeiting, were reviewed in detail. Finally, we present the challenges and future development in the fields of advanced artificial cilia.

Key Scientists

From 1994 to 1997, research teams including Bohringer, Donald, and Macdonald from Cornell University and Suh and Kovacs from Stanford University reported on the application of artificial cilia in the field of micro‐electro‐mechanical systems (MEMS) technology,[1‐3] while Fujita from the University of Tokyo and Stemme from KTH were also conducting research in artificial cilia fields at the same time. In 2006, Krijnen's team designed a combination of cricket cerci cilia and MEMS technology to further extend the application of artificial cilia to flow sensors.[4] In 2007, Superfine's crew introduced the polycarbonate track‐etched (PCTE) membrane method into the fabrication of artificial cilia, achieving the fabrication of high aspect ratio cilia in a liquid free environment.[5] Since 2008, Toonder's lab has been focusing on the research of artificial cilia and have made outstanding contributions in lab on chip and achieve various stimuli responsive actuation of artificial cilia.[6‐8] In 2010, Alexeev's research team used computer simulations to design a hydrodynamic model of ciliary strike.[9] Since 2017, Jiang and his coworkers have made progress in the application of directional manipulation of artificial cilia, including research on solids, droplets and bubbles.[10‐13] In 2020—2024, Sitti's research group has introduced cilia into the field of bioinspired microrobot and realized the programmed actuation of artificial cilia from the perspectives of electricity, photothermal and magnetic.[14‐19] In 2022, Jeong's group innovated the traditional magnetic assembly method to fabricate three‐dimensional nanoscale cilia with regular spatial distribution and controllable geometry.[20‐21]
Assembly of Homochiral Titanium‐Oxo Clusters Protected by in situ Generated Chiral Ligands for Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Activity
Authors: Huang Nahui , Hou Jinle , Wang Ye , Fei Pengfei , Zhang Dongxu , Wang Zhi , Qu Konggang , Zhang Xianxi , Sun Di
Published: December 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The synthesis of titanium oxo clusters (TOCs) with both chirality and photoactivity is urgently needed to expand their applications. However, this remains a significant challenge due to synthetic difficulties and limitations in chiral ligand selection. In this work, we have isolated two pairs of enantiomeric TOCs, [Ti3(μ3‐O)(R/S‐L1)2(iPrO)6] (R/S‐Ti3; iPrOH = isopropanol, R/S‐L1 = R/S‐2'‐hydroxy‐[1,1'‐ binaphthalen]‐2‐yl isopropyl hydrogenphosphate) and [Ti4(μ2‐O)(μ4‐O)(R/S‐L2)2(EtO)8] (R/S‐Ti4; EtOH = ethanol, R/S‐L2 = R/S‐2'‐hydroxy‐[1,1'‐binaphthalen]‐2‐yl ethyl hydrogenphosphate), via an in situ ligand transformation approach. The R/S‐L1 and R/S‐L2 ligands were obtained by alcoholysis of R/S‐L (R/S‐1,1'‐binaphthyl‐2,2'‐diyl hydrogenphosphate) in different reaction solvents. These ligands, with additional coordination sites, facilitated the formation of novel TOCs and improved their stability. Importantly, these clusters exhibited exceptional stability in solid state and maintained appreciable stability in solution. Furthermore, the introduction of chiral ligands not only imparts a homochiral nature to R/S‐Ti3 and R/S‐Ti4 but also confers upon them superior photoelectric properties due to ligand‐to‐metal charge transfer (LMCT) phenomena, as confirmed by theoretical calculations. This study offers a valuable synthetic strategy for preparing photoactive chiral TOCs, and we anticipate it will inspire new discoveries in the field of chiral metal nanoclusters.
A review on fruit and vegetable processing using traditional and novel methods
Authors: Srivastava Prashant Kumar , Sit Nandan
Published: December 2024

Fruits and vegetables are essential for human health, providing superior nutritional benefits while contributing to a sustainable approach that mitigates the impact of climate change. However, their high moisture content makes them highly perishable, leading to significant postharvest losses. As a result, extending their shelf life and maintaining quality are critical challenges that require effective processing techniques. Traditional methods such as blanching, pasteurization, and drying are commonly employed to inhibit microbial growth and enzyme activity. However, these techniques often involve high temperatures, which can negatively affect the quality, structure, and nutrient content of heat‐sensitive produce. To overcome these limitations, innovative non‐thermal technologies—including high‐pressure processing (HPP), pulsed electric fields (PEF), ohmic heating, cold plasma, and ultraviolet (UV) treatments—are gaining attention. These methods preserve nutrient content more effectively and enhance sensory attributes such as color, texture, and flavor, while also reducing processing times, making them suitable for commercial applications. This review provides a comprehensive examination of both traditional and novel processing methods for fruits and vegetables, focussing on their mechanisms, advantages, and limitations. Furthermore, it explores the potential of combining conventional and emerging techniques to develop more sustainable processing solutions that cater to the growing consumer demand for high‐quality, nutrient‐rich foods.