bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Controlled Dedoping and Redoping of N‐Doped Poly(benzodifurandione) (n‐PBDF)
Authors: Ke Zhifan , Chaudhary Jagrity , Flagg Lucas Q. , Baustert Kyle N. , Yusuf Augustine O. , Liu Guangchao , You Liyan , Graham Kenneth R. , DeLongchamp Dean M. , Mei Jianguo
Published: April 2024

The doping levels of conjugated polymers significantly influence their conductivity, energetics, and optical properties. Recently, a highly conductive n‐doped polymer called poly (3,7‐dihydrobenzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]difuran‐2,6‐dione) (poly(benzodifurandione), n‐PBDF) is discovered, opening new possibilities for n‐type conducting polymers in printed electronics and other fields. Controlling the doping level of n‐PBDF is of great interest due to its wide range of potential applications. Here controlled dedoping and redoping of n‐PBDF is reported and a mechanistic understating of such a process is provided. Dedoping occurs through electron transfer and proton capture, wherein the ionic dopants, tris(4‐bromophenyl)ammoniumyl hexachloroantimonate (Magic Blue), exhibit efficient proton capture ability and stronger interaction with n‐PBDF, resulting in high dedoping efficiency. Moreover, chemically dedoped PBDF can be redoped using various proton‐coupled electron transfer agents. By manipulating the doping levels of n‐PBDF thin films, ranging from highly doped to dedoped states, the system demonstrates controllable conductivity in five orders of magnitude, adjustable optical properties, and energetics. As a result, these characteristics demonstrate the potential applications of n‐PBDF in organic electrochemical transistors and thermoelectrics.
Mn‐Based Mullites for Environmental and Energy Applications
Authors: Li Huan , Wang Wanying , Xu Jinchao , Wang Ansheng , Wan Xiang , Yang Liyuan , Zhao Haojun , Shan Qingyu , Zhao Chunning , Sun Shuhui , Wang Weichao
Published: April 2024

Mn‐based mullite oxides AMn2O5 (A = lanthanide, Y, Bi) is a novel type of ternary catalyst in terms of their electronic and geometric structures. The coexistence of pyramid Mn3+–O and octahedral Mn4+–O makes the d‐orbital selectively active toward various catalytic reactions. The alternative edge‐ and corner‐sharing stacking configuration constructs the confined active sites and abundant active oxygen species. As a result, they tend to show superior catalytic behaviors and thus gain great attention in environmental treatment and energy conversion and storage. In environmental applications, Mn‐based mullites have been demonstrated to be highly active toward low‐temperature oxidization of CO, NO, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), etc. Recent research further shows that mullites decompose O3 and ozonize VOCs from −20 °C to room temperature. Moreover, mullites enhance oxygen reduction reactions (ORR) and sulfur reduction reactions (SRR), critical kinetic steps in air‐battery and Li–S batteries, respectively. Their distinctive structures also facilitate applications in gas‐sensitive sensing, ionic conduction, high mobility dielectrics, oxygen storage, piezoelectricity, dehydration, H2O2 decomposition, and beyond. A comprehensive review from basic physicochemical properties to application certainly not only gains a full picture of mullite oxides but also provides new insights into designing heterogeneous catalysts.
Temperature Dependence of Relativistic Valence Band Splitting Induced by an Altermagnetic Phase Transition
Authors: Hajlaoui Mahdi , Wilfred D'Souza Sunil , Šmejkal Libor , Kriegner Dominik , Krizman Gauthier , Zakusylo Tetiana , Olszowska Natalia , Caha Ondřej , Michalička Jan , Sánchez‐Barriga Jaime , Marmodoro Alberto , Výborný Karel , Ernst Arthur , Cinchetti Mirko , Minar Jan , Jungwirth Tomas , Springholz Gunther
Published: April 2024

Altermagnetic (AM) materials exhibit non‐relativistic, momentum‐dependent spin‐split states, ushering in new opportunities for spin electronic devices. While the characteristics of spin‐splitting are documented within the framework of the non‐relativistic spin group symmetry, there is limited exploration of the inclusion of relativistic symmetry and its impact on the emergence of a novel spin‐splitting in the band structure. This study delves into the intricate relativistic electronic structure of an AM material, α−MnTe. Employing temperature‐dependent angle‐resolved photoelectron spectroscopy across the AM phase transition, the emergence of a relativistic valence band splitting concurrent with the establishment of magnetic order is elucidated. This discovery is validated through disordered local moment calculations, modeling the influence of magnetic order on the electronic structure and confirming the magnetic origin of the observed splitting. The temperature‐dependent splitting is ascribed to the advent of relativistic spin‐splitting resulting from the strengthening of AM order in α−MnTe as the temperature decreases. This sheds light on a previously unexplored facet of this intriguing material.
Resonant Fully Dielectric Metasurfaces for Ultrafast Terahertz Pulse Generation
Authors: Peters Luke , Rocco Davide , Olivieri Luana , Arregui Leon Unai , Cecconi Vittorio , Carletti Luca , Gigli Carlo , Della Valle Giuseppe , Cutrona Antonio , Totero Gongora Juan Sebastian , Leo Giuseppe , Pasquazi Alessia , De Angelis Costantino , Peccianti Marco
Published: April 2024

Metasurfaces represent a new frontier in materials science paving for unprecedented methods of controlling electromagnetic waves, with a range of applications spanning from sensing to imaging and communications. For pulsed terahertz (THz) generation, metasurfaces offer a gateway to tuneable thin emitters that can be utilized for large‐area imaging, microscopy, and spectroscopy. In literature, THz‐emitting metasurfaces generally exhibit high absorption, being based either on metals or on semiconductors excited in highly resonant regimes. Here, the use of a fully dielectric semiconductor exploiting morphology‐mediated resonances and inherent quadratic nonlinear response is proposed. This system exhibits a remarkable 40‐fold efficiency enhancement compared to the unpatterned at the peak of the optimized wavelength range, demonstrating its potential as a scalable emitter design.
Influence of the Immobilization Technique on the Productivity of Enzymes in the Cascade Reduction of CO2 to CH3OH
Authors: Di Spiridione Carmela , Aresta Michele , Dibenedetto Angela
Published: April 2024

The enzymatic effectiveness in the reaction cascade that reduces CO2 to methanol in water at room‐temperature faces various constraints. One of the major challenges is the short life of costly enzymes: immobilization is used to make them more stable and recyclable. The comparative analysis of the several immobilization techniques reported in the literature is challenging due to the diverse reaction conditions (single enzyme test or pool of enzymes test) and experimental setups, as well as the high variability in the amount of enzymes and cofactor. In the present study, a comparison is presented among three different methods (co‐encapsulation into Ca–alginate beads, co‐absorption onto zirconium(IV) phosphate (ZrP) and covalent binding to dialdehydecellulose [DAC]) of co‐immobilization of the three dehydrogenases Fatedehydrogenase (DH), FaldDH, and alcohol dehydrogenase, used in equal amount and under the same experimental conditions, so to check at what extension the support and the immobilization method can influence the activity of the enzymatic pool. DAC is used for the first time to support the three DHs and results to be the best method of immobilization with respect to those used here, that also allows longer life on enzymes and repeated recycling of the supported enzymes, increasing the overall methanol production with respect to the free enzymes.
Planting date and dicamba‐based herbicide programs influence soybean production in the Southern Great Plains
Authors: Kezar Sarah , Kankarla Vanaja , Lofton Josh
Published: April 2024

The interplay of management decisions involving soybean (Glycine max L.) planting date, herbicide programs, and herbicide application timings is critical to optimize soybean performance and weed control in Southern Great Plains soybean production systems. This research sought to evaluate soybean yield potential and the level of weed control as influenced by early‐, delayed‐, and late‐ planting dates and various combinations of preemergence (PRE), early‐postemergence (EPOST), and mid‐postemergence (MPOST) weed management programs. A field study was established in Bixby, OK in 2017 and 2018 under irrigated conditions and in Perkins, OK in 2017 under dryland conditions, consisting of three planting windows (early, delayed, and late) of XtendFlex soybean, with or without a PRE (chlorimuron + flumioxazin + pyroxasulfone + glyphosate + dicamba) combined with EPOST or EPOST + MPOST (glyphosate + dicamba) versus no in‐season applications. The gap in late‐planted soybean yield potential, compared to early‐planted soybean, was exacerbated in the dryland systems (1346 kg ha−1) versus an irrigated system (2311 kg ha−1). Use of PRE provided 60% weed control until MPOST and increased yields by 657 kg ha−1 and 457 kg ha−1 for delayed and late‐planted soybean, respectively. Late‐planted soybean with EPOST + MPOST provided up to 50% weed control, but lack of biomass production for cultural control reduced weed control by 29% compared to early‐ and delayed‐planted soybean. From an agronomic management standpoint, the time of soybean planting is influential on the success of weed control measures and soybean yields in double‐cropping system in the Southern Great Plains, particularly with late‐planted soybean.
Field‐Free Region Scanning‐Based Magnetic Microcarrier Targeting in Multibifurcation Vessels
Authors: Nguyen Kim Tien , Kee Hyeonwoo , Go Gwangjun , Kim Seok‐Jae , Choi Eunpyo , Park Jong‐Oh , Park Sukho , Kim Jayoung
Published: April 2024

Navigation of microcarriers in complex environments as a vascular network remains an open challenge due to limited solutions for effective targeting strategy. Simultaneous real‐time visualization and manipulation of microcarriers at any depth in the human body is far to be achieved even though one of each task has been successfully proven. Herein, a novel targeting strategy is proposed that employs field‐free region (FFR) scanning to guide microcarriers through multiple bifurcations within a predefined vessel network. The main challenge of this method lies on how, where, and when to activate FFR to steer a particle to a desired direction, regardless of its spatial feedback. To achieve it, first, a mathematical model of particle motion in a vessel network is developed to predict particle behaviors and positions. Subsequently, an optimization algorithm is formulated to place FFR well‐coordinated around each bifurcation at a designated moment. The established solution for targeting a magnetic microcarrier is preemptively evaluated through finite element simulations and then successfully implemented in in vitro multibranched vessels.
Catalytic and noncatalytic CO2 abs‐desorption studies of MEA‐TETA‐DEEA/MEA‐TETA‐AMP tri‐solvents at specific blended ratios
Authors: Wei Yan , Shi Huancong , Jin Jing , Ge Yingli , Feng Yongcheng
Published: April 2024

To discover the “coordinative effect” within MEA‐polyamines, the non‐catalytic CO2 absorption‐desorption tests were conducted within tri‐solvents of “MEA‐TETA (triethylenetetramine)‐DEEA (N, N‐diethylethanolamine)/AMP(2‐amino‐2‐methyl‐1‐propanol)” at specific concentrations of .1 ~ .5 + 2 + 2 mol/L for the first time. The energy efficient combinations were detected of MEA‐TETA based tri‐solvents with solid acid catalysts, from catalytic CO2 desorption experiments onto MEA‐TETA‐DEEA/MEA‐TETA‐AMP with several commercial solid acid catalysts: blended γ‐Al2O3/H‐ZSM‐5 = 2:1, H‐mordenite, H‐Beta (Hβ), HND‐580, and HND‐8. Three parameters were adopted to evaluate desorption activity: average desorption rate, heat duty, and desorption factors (DFs). After analyses, the .1 + 2 + 2 mol/L MEA‐TETA‐AMP with catalyst HND‐8 possessed the best CO2 desorption at 95–98°C with biggest DF. The desorption ability of DEEA was better than AMP, but with aid of solid acid catalyst, the AMP can release more CO2 than DEEA due to weak stability of AMP‐CO2− carbamate.
Effect of NASCION‐Type ceramic dispersion in PAN/PVA‐based blend polymer electrolyte: A structural, thermal, and electrical study
Authors: Kumar Dharmendra , Mukherjee Shweta , Das Avirup
Published: April 2024

Solid flexible separators having adequate ion conductivity at ambient temperature along with good thermal and voltage stability are potential candidates for separators in all solid‐state ion batteries. In the present work, zirconium and niobium‐doped Li1.3Al0.3Ti1.7 (PO4)3 ceramic particles have been incorporated into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based blend that served as a flexible matrix to create a flexible polymer–ceramic framework and have been examined for conductivity, dielectric properties, voltage stability, thermal stability, and electrochemical performance. The flexible polymer–ceramic framework shows high thermal stability, improved conductivity, and a high‐voltage window. Optimized dc conductivity of 9.8 × 10−5 S cm−1 has been observed among all investigated samples, with an improved voltage stability of 4.94 V. Further, the Trukhan model has been used to understand the effect of filler loading on ion migration properties. The optimized solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) shows improved ion mobility (μ) of 5.13 × 10−2 cm2 V−1 s, number density (n) = 2.39 × 1015 cm3, and diffusion coefficient (D) of 2.09 × 10−3 cm2 s−1. It also shows a very high specific capacitance of ~10−4 Fg−1, excellent cycling stability, and 93.75% capacity retention after 100 cycles.
A Concise Route to Keto‐Bridged Polyphenols by Photo‐Fries Rearrangement in Flow
Authors: Lin Xin‐Jie , Wang Chien‐Lung , Peng Chi‐How , Liu Hsueh‐Ju , Wu Yen‐Ku
Published: April 2024

Described is a new synthetic route to bis(2‐hydroxy‐3,5‐di‐t‐butylphenyl)methanone and its derivatives. The combined esterification/photo‐Fries rearrangement approach enables a modular preparation of keto‐bridged polyphenols. This protecting group‐free process is highly atom‐ and step‐economic, and a scalable production was easily achieved in the continuous‐flow mode.
Improved Electrochemical Performance of LiMn0.6Fe0.4PO4 via Chitosan‐Derived Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon Coating
Authors: Zhang Jiawang , Liu Youming , Wang Baofeng , Yao Weifeng
Published: April 2024

The olivine‐type compound LiMnxFe1‐XPO4 (LMFP) combines the advantageous characteristics of LiFePO4 and LiMnPO4, including high energy density, extended cycle life, eco‐friendliness, and cost‐effectiveness. However, its application is limited by certain challenges such as low electronic conductivity and stability issues related to the Jahn‐Teller effect induced by Mn3+, which hinder its scalability. Here, we introduce an innovative approach by applying nitrogen‐doped carbon layers, derived from chitosan as both a carbon and nitrogen sources, to encapsulate LMFP. This encapsulation significantly improves LMFP′s electrochemical performance compared to those using sucrose‐derived carbon coatings. The LMFP cathode with nitrogen‐doped carbon coating exhibits a specific capacity of 156.8 mAh/g at 0.1 C, achieved a first‐cycle Coulombic efficiency of 96.8 %, and maintained a capacity retention rate of 94.6 % after 200 cycles at 1 C. This new method of employing chitosan for producing nitrogen‐doped carbon coatings holds great promise for enhancing the usability of LMFP in broader applications.
Engineering Porous Carbon with Precise Sizes to Promote Surface‐Dominated Storage in Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Lai Xin , Li Xin , Kong Qingquan , An Xuguang , Zhang Jing , Li Xiaolei , Yao Weitang
Published: April 2024

As the sole commercially viable anode material for sodium‐ion batteries, hard carbon currently faces challenges such as slow diffusion kinetics in the low voltage range and low safety due to sodium deposition. In order to deepen the understanding of the pseudocapacitive processes of hard carbon in the high voltage range and enhance sodium storage capacity, this study systematically investigates the electrochemical performance and ion storage of ZIF‐8‐derived porous carbons (ZPCs) of different sizes. We propose a mathematical model based on a spherical particle core‐shell structure, which profoundly reveals the relationship between size and specific surface area, as well as the linear relationship between specific surface area and specific capacity. Moreover, simply by reducing the size of the porous carbon, the specific capacity increased by 86.5 mAh g−1. Dynamic studies reveal that in nano‐porous carbon materials, sodium‐ion storage primarily relies on defect adsorption. Size reduction enhances physical adsorption and surface capacitance response, with ZPC‐80 exhibiting lower resistance and higher diffusion coefficient, indicating that size reduction improves electronic conductivity and charge transfer efficiency, achieving excellent reversible capacity and cycling stability. This work yields a profound insight into the dynamic characteristics of hard carbon anode materials, presenting a new perspective for the design of efficient sodium‐ion batteries.
Mapping QTL controlling count traits with excess zeros and ones using a zero‐and‐one‐inflated generalized Poisson regression model
Authors: Chi Jinling , Ye Jimin , Zhou Ying
Published: April 2024

The research on the quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping of count data has aroused the wide attention of researchers. There are frequent problems in applied research that limit the application of the conventional Poisson model in the analysis of count phenotypes, which include the overdispersion and excess zeros and ones. In this article, a novel model, that is, the zero‐and‐one‐inflated generalized Poisson (ZOIGP) model, is proposed to deal with these problems. Based on the proposed model, a score test is performed for the inflation parameter, in which the ZOIGP model with a constant proportion of excess zeros and ones is compared with a standard generalized Poisson model. To illustrate the practicability of the ZOIGP model, we extend it to the QTL interval mapping application that underpins count phenotype with excess zeros and excess ones. The genetic effects are estimated utilizing the expectation–maximization algorithm embedded with the Newton–Raphson algorithm, and the genome‐wide scan and likelihood ratio test is performed to map and test the potential QTLs. The statistical properties exhibited by the proposed method are investigated through simulation. Finally, a real data analysis example is used to illustrate the utility of the proposed method for QTL mapping.
Highly sensitive lanthanide complex as a probe for l‐kynurenine: A cancer biomarker
Authors: Varghese Susan , J. M Arya , Madanan Anju S. , Abraham Merin K. , Shkhair Ali Ibrahim , Indongo Geneva , Rajeevan Greeshma , N. S Vijila , B. K Arathy , George Sony
Published: April 2024

A lanthanide complex based on europium (Eu) and chelidamic acid was synthesized (Eu–CHE) and characterized. The complex Eu–CHE exhibited intense luminescence at 615 nm under excitation at 300 nm and was further investigated for highly sensitive turn‐off detection of l‐kynurenine (l‐kyn), a cancer biomarker. The probe detected l‐kyn linearly from 6 nM to 0.2 μM with a limit of detection and limit of quantification of 1.37 and 4.57 nM, respectively. The probe was investigated for selectivity towards l‐kyn among co‐existing amino acids and further extended for detecting l‐kyn from human serum and urine samples. A low‐cost paper strip‐based sensing platform was also developed for the visual detection of l‐kyn.
Bridging the biochemistry lecture and laboratory courses: Construction and application of the “Innovative Experimental Design” module
Authors: Li Pengfei , Zhang Boya , He Shuaifei , Lu Yuqing , Jiang Wenli , Zhong Qingsong , Quan Shu , Wu Haizhen , Zhou Mian
Published: April 2024

Both lecture and laboratory courses of biochemistry are important professional courses for undergraduates with biology related majors. Course optimization and update is crucial but challenging, especially for the laboratory course. Although taught separately, here we showed a strategy to bridge the two courses and promote the improvement of both. In addition to knowledge teaching, we implanted the “Innovative Experimental Design” module in the lecture course in which students were required to design and present their own experimental ideas. After evaluation by the faculty group, the best idea was supported for further experimental test. Here we described the preliminary experiments and optimization procedures about the idea of microbial fuel cells. This experiment is ready to be included into the laboratory course program in spring 2023.
Institutional ownership and women representation on boards in three different institutional settings
Authors: Hamdan Reem Khamis , Hamdan Allam Mohammed , Barone Elisabetta , Sarea Adel , Shoaib Haneen
Published: April 2024

This study aims to investigate the moderating effect of country level institutional variables on the relationship between institutional ownership and board gender diversity. Using firm and country level data of three different cultural environments (Gulf Cooperation Council countries, UK, and France) for the years 2018–2019, this study concludes that institutional elements related to women (Women Tertiary education levels; legal support, Economic Participation and culture) create isomorphic pressure on firms that enhance the role of institutional owners in increasing women representation on board of directors. Other governance elements, such as ownership concentration, board independence and board size may indicate governance levels better than board gender diversity in certain institutional environments. The study recommended that board gender diversity should not be a priority for investors and portfolio managers in financial markets where reduced female labor market participation exists. Moreover, quotas may be a good tool for enhancing female representation among boards in contexts that have reduced female labor market participation and high levels of tertiary education attainment to maintain corporate sustainability.
Unlocking the dynamic linkages between sustainable equity investment and economic policy uncertainty: An empirical analysis for G‐20 countries
Authors: Gartia Umakanta , Bhue Rajesh , Panda Ajaya Kumar
Published: April 2024

The study examines the dynamic relationships between sustainable equity investment and economic policy uncertainty of G‐20 countries using monthly environmental, social, and governance (ESG) equity and economic policy uncertainty (EPU) indices. Using the autoregressive distributed lag model and nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag model models, the study finds a negative long‐run relationship between sustainable equity investments and economic policy uncertainties in Australia, Canada, the USA, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Investors in these G20 countries may perceive that companies with higher ESG performance are more likely to face regulatory scrutiny, legal action, or reputational damage if they are associated with high levels of economic policy uncertainties. As a result, ESG market indices may underperform when EPU is high and vice versa. It supports prospect theory and suggests that individuals are more sensitive to potential losses than gains. On the contrary, the relationship is positive in the case of the USA, Brazil, China, and to some extent India. This might be because firms with high ESG performance could manage risks better and seize opportunities associated with EPU, which helps ESG market indices to outperform when EPU is high. It is supported by the legitimacy theory that says to maintain the legitimacy and credibility of the company, the investment must be invested in ESG initiatives, which can lead to improved long‐term financial performance and market value.
Sustainable entrepreneurship: A catalyst for unemployment reduction and economic growth in Anglophone and Francophone countries
Authors: Mathibe Motshedisi , Oppong Clement
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study is in two fold. First, the study examines the impact of language, history, and culture in Anglophone and Francophone countries on the rate of unemployment and economic growth. Second, the study explores the extent to which sustainable entrepreneurship influences the rate of unemployment, and economic growth in Anglophone and Francophone (A&F) countries. The study employed a descriptive and quantitative research design where a longitudinal data were sourced from the World Development Indicators and World Bank Entrepreneurship databases on 12 and 9 Francophone and Anglophone countries respectively. The random effect and the generalized method of moments (GMM) regression models were employed to attain the objectives of the study. The findings of the study revealed that there is a significant negative effect of sustainable entrepreneurship on unemployment; sustainable entrepreneurship has a positive significant effect on economic growth; and also, history and culture were found to have a significant impact on unemployment reduction and economic growth. However, language was found to have an insignificant influence between A&F countries suggesting that the ability of sustainable entrepreneurship to minimize the rate of unemployment and boost economic growth is generic irrespective of linguistic factors.
Clinical laboratory characteristics and gene mutation spectrum of Ph‐negative MPN patients with atypical variants of JAK2, MPL, or CALR
Authors: Wang Zhanlong , Tian Xin , Ma Jinyu , Zhang Yuhui , Ta Wenru , Duan Yifan , Li Fengli , Zhang Hong , Chen Long , Yang Shaobin , Liu Enbin , Lin Yani , Yuan Weiping , Ru Kun , Bai Jie
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate the incidence, clinical laboratory characteristics, and gene mutation spectrum of Ph‐negative MPN patients with atypical variants of JAK2, MPL, or CALR.

Methods

We collected a total of 359 Ph‐negative MPN patients with classical mutations in driver genes JAK2, MPL, or CALR, and divided them into two groups based on whether they had additional atypical variants of driver genes JAK2, MPL, or CALR: 304 patients without atypical variants of driver genes and 55 patients with atypical variants of driver genes. We analyzed the relevant characteristics of these patients.

Results

This study included 359 patients with Ph‐negative MPNs with JAK2, MPL, or CALR classical mutations and found that 55 (15%) patients had atypical variants of JAK2, MPL, or CALR. Among them, 28 cases (51%) were male, and 27 (49%) were female, with a median age of 64 years (range, 21–83). The age of ET patients with atypical variants was higher than that of ET patients without atypical variants [70 (28–80) vs. 61 (19–82), p = 0.03]. The incidence of classical MPL mutations in ET patients with atypical variants was higher than in ET patients without atypical variants [13.3% (2/15) vs. 0% (0/95), p = 0.02]. The number of gene mutations in patients with atypical variants of driver genes PV, ET, and Overt‐PMF is more than in patients without atypical variants of PV, ET, and Overt‐PMF [PV: 3 (2–6) vs. 2 (1–7), p < 0.001; ET: 4 (2–8) vs. 2 (1–7), p < 0.05; Overt‐PMF: 5 (2–9) vs. 3 (1–8), p < 0.001]. The incidence of SH2B3 and ASXL1 mutations were higher in MPN patients with atypical variants than in those without atypical variants (SH2B3: 16% vs. 6%, p < 0.01; ASXL1: 24% vs. 13%, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

These data indicate that classical mutations of JAK2, MPL, and CALR may not be completely mutually exclusive with atypical variants of JAK2, MPL, and CALR. In this study, 30 different atypical variants of JAK2, MPL, and CALR were identified, JAK2 G127D being the most common (42%, 23/55). Interestingly, JAK2 G127D only co‐occurred with JAK2V617F mutation. The incidence of atypical variants of JAK2 in Ph‐negative MPNs was much higher than that of the atypical variants of MPL and CALR. The significance of these atypical variants will be further studied in the future.
The RNA‐binding protein RBMS3 inhibits the progression of colon cancer by regulating the stability of LIMS1 mRNA
Authors: Li Yafei , Wang Shuoshuo , Li Guoli , Gao Chunyang , Cui Zihan , Cong Mingqi , Hu Jie , Zhang Minghui , Jin Xiaoming , Sun Haiying , Kong Dan
Published: April 2024

Background

The RNA‐binding motif single‐stranded interacting protein 3 (RBMS3) is a constituent of the RNA‐binding motif (RBM) protein family, which assumes a pivotal role in governing cellular biogenesis processes such as the cell cycle and apoptosis. Despite an abundance of studies elucidating RBMS3's divergent roles in the genesis and advancement of various tumors, its involvement in colon cancer remains enigmatic.

Methods

The present investigation employed data analysis from TCGA and GTEx to unveil that RBMS3 expression demonstrated a diminished presence in colon cancer tissues when juxtaposed with normal colon tissues. The effect of RBMS3 and LIM zinc finger domain 1 (LIMS1) on colon cancer was substantiated via animal models and cellular experiments. The connection between RBMS3 and LIM zinc finger domain 1 (LIMS1) was verified by molecular biology methods.

Results

The study conclusively ascertained that augmenting RBMS3 expression quells the proliferation, migration, and invasion of colon cancer cells. Furthermore, the inquiry unveiled a plausible mechanism through which RBMS3 impacts the expression of LIMS1 by modulating its mRNA stability. The investigation ascertained that RBMS3 inhibits the progression of colon cancer by regulating LIMS1. The inhibitory function of LIMS1 and RBMS3 is closely intertwined in colon cancer, with knocking down LIMS1 being able to rescue the inhibitory effect of RBMS3 overexpression on the functionality of colon cancer cell

Conclusions

The discernments delineate RBMS3 as a novel suppressor of cancer via LIMS1, thereby bestowing fresh therapeutic possibilities and illuminating the intricacies of colon cancer.
Fix‐it voucher program aims to improve road safety, ease student stress
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: April 2024

Improving campus safety can have wide‐ranging benefits for the community at large. That was the ethos behind the new Fix‐a‐Falcon Bulb Replacement Program at the Solano Community College Department of Public Safety, which allows students to use vouchers to deal with vehicle bulb replacement‐related safety violations.
A team of teams creates success from successes
Authors: Skipworth Stan
Published: April 2024

Over the course of a winter break, I had the opportunity to read United States Army General (Ret.) Stanley McChrystal's marvelous text, Team of Teams: New Rules of Engagement for a Complex World. In this highly insightful and broadly applicable book for seemingly any industry or genre, General McChrystal outlines the enormous additional value that arises when groups within an organization serve one another while pursuing the overarching mission for the company as a whole.
Multifactor synergistic influence of data intelligence on consumer mobile shopping
Authors: He Junhong , Liu Zengpeng , Li Fu , Fu Huijian , Zhou Yang
Published: April 2024

Data intelligence (DI) is constantly influencing consumers. According to the theory of environmental psychology model, when consumers are stimulated by enterprise DI in mobile shopping, they can easily transform emotional reactions into corresponding behaviors. Based on this theory, this research adopts a hybrid method combining qualitative interview and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to explore the multifactor synergistic effects of DI factors on consumer emotions and mobile shopping intentions. Study 1 extracts five DI factors through qualitative study using NVivo software. All but one of the five DI factors had strong effects on consumer emotions. Study 2 uses the fsQCA method to analyze large‐sample survey data, revealing four configurations of DI factors that trigger positive consumer emotions and three that trigger mobile shopping intentions. The presence of intelligent search, intelligent recommendations, and intelligent logistics are the core conditions that trigger positive consumer emotions and mobile shopping intentions, while the presence or absence of intelligent customer service and intelligent pricing trigger positive consumer emotions and mobile shopping intentions. The research results supplement the existing theories and provide practical guidance for enterprises in DI stimulus design and government in DI environment construction.
Synthesis and Antifungal Activity of Norbornene Carboxamide/sulfonamide Derivatives as Potential Fungicides Targeting Laccase
Authors: Yang Zi‐Hui , Qiu Yi‐Gui , Jin Dao‐Jun , Zheng Yi‐Ming , Li Jia , Gu Wen
Published: April 2024

To explore more potential fungicides with new scaffolds, thirty‐seven norbornene carboxamide/sulfonamide derivatives were designed, synthesized, and assayed for inhibitory activity against six plant pathogenic fungi and oomycetes. The preliminary antifungal assay suggested that the title derivatives showed moderate to good antifungal activity against six plant pathogens. Especially, compound 6 e presented excellent in vitro antifungal activity against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum (EC50=0.71 mg/L), which was substantially stronger than pydiflumetofen. In vivo antifungal assay indicated 6 e displayed prominent protective and curative effects on rape leaves infected by S. sclerotiorum. The preliminary mechanism research displayed that 6 e could damage the surface morphology and inhibit the sclerotia formation of S. sclerotiorum. In addition, the in vitro enzyme inhibition bioassay indicated that 6 e displayed pronounced laccase inhibition activity (IC50=0.63 μM), much stronger than positive control cysteine. Molecular docking elucidated the binding modes between 6 e and laccase. The bioassay results and mechanism investigation demonstrated that this class of norbornene carboxamide/sulfonamide derivatives could be promising laccase inhibitors for novel fungicide development.
Transient In situ DRIFTS Investigation of CO2 Hydrogenation to Methanol over Unsupported CuGa Catalysts
Authors: Zhang Shuanglin , Shao Yan , Chen Huanhao , Fan Xiaolei
Published: April 2024

Gallium oxide‐based catalysts are promising candidates for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol, whilst mechanistic understanding of the catalytic systems is not yet fully understood. Here, transient in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) studies of CO2 hydrogenation over the unsupported CuGa and CuGaN (with N doping) catalysts were conducted. The findings show that N doping could possibly promote the formation of surface Cu+ sites on the interface between Cu and Ga2O3, and hence increasing the selectivity to methanol. However, N doping prohibited the reduction of Ga2O3 to oxygen‐deficient Ga2O3‐x, which is unfavorable for CO2 conversion. Additionally, during DRIFTS the steady‐state isotope transient kinetic analysis (SSITKA) was performed (under H2/D2 isotopic switching conditions). The SSITKA results confirm that the Cu+‐bound formates were likely the key intermediates for methanol synthesis over the catalyst, and the N doping could also weak the interaction between CO* species and the catalyst surface, and thus facilitating the selectivity towards methanol rather than CO. Findings of the work show that the partial nitridation of the metal oxides could be the strategy to promote methanol synthesis selectivity.
Interaction of left ventricular size with the outcome of cardiac resynchronization therapy in Japanese patients
Authors: Ito Ryo , Kondo Yusuke , Nakano Masahiro , Kajiyama Takatsugu , Nakano Miyo , Kitagawa Mari , Sugawara Masafumi , Chiba Toshinori , Kobayashi Yoshio
Published: April 2024

Background

We analyzed the influence of the QRS duration (QRSd) to LV end‐diastolic volume (LVEDV) ratio on cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) outcomes in heart failure patients classified as III/IV per the New York Heart Association (NYHA) and with small body size.

Hypothesis

We proposed the hypothesis that the QRSd/LV size ratio is a better index of the CRT substrate.

Methods

We enrolled 114 patients with advanced heart failure (NYHA class III/IV, and LV ejection fraction >35%) who received a CRT device, including those with left bundle branch block (LBBB) and QRSd ≥120 milliseconds (n = 60), non‐LBBB and QRSd ≥150 milliseconds (n = 30) and non‐LBBB and QRSd of 120−149 milliseconds (n = 24).

Results

Over a mean follow‐up period of 65 ± 58 months, the incidence of the primary endpoint, a composite of all‐cause death and hospitalization for heart failure, showed no significant intergroup difference (43.3% vs. 50.0% vs. 37.5%, respectively, p = .72). Similarly, among 104 patients with QRSd/LVEDV ≥ 0.67 (n = 54) and QRSd/LVEDV < 0.67 (n = 52), no significant differences were observed in the incidence of the primary endpoint (35.1% vs. 51.9%, p = .49). Nevertheless, patients with QRSd/LVEDV ≥ 0.67 showed better survival than those with QRSd/LVEDV < 0.67 (14.8% vs. 34.6%, p = .0024).

Conclusion

Advanced HF patients with a higher QRSd/LVEDV ratio showed better survival in this small‐body–size population. Thus, the risk is concentrated among those with a larger QRSd, and patients with a relatively smaller left ventricular size appeared to benefit from CRT.
Label‐free, whole‐brain in vivo mapping in an adult vertebrate with third harmonic generation microscopy
Authors: Akbari Najva , Tatarsky Rose L. , Kolkman Kristine E. , Fetcho Joseph R. , Xu Chris , Bass Andrew H.
Published: April 2024

Comprehensive understanding of interconnected networks within the brain requires access to high resolution information within large field of views and over time. Currently, methods that enable mapping structural changes of the entire brain in vivo are extremely limited. Third harmonic generation (THG) can resolve myelinated structures, blood vessels, and cell bodies throughout the brain without the need for any exogenous labeling. Together with deep penetration of long wavelengths, this enables in vivo brain‐mapping of large fractions of the brain in small animals and over time. Here, we demonstrate that THG microscopy allows non‐invasive label‐free mapping of the entire brain of an adult vertebrate, Danionella dracula, which is a miniature species of cyprinid fish. We show this capability in multiple brain regions and in particular the identification of major commissural fiber bundles in the midbrain and the hindbrain. These features provide readily discernable landmarks for navigation and identification of regional‐specific neuronal groups and even single neurons during in vivo experiments. We further show how this label‐free technique can easily be coupled with fluorescence microscopy and used as a comparative tool for studies of other species with similar body features to Danionella, such as zebrafish (Danio rerio) and tetras (Trochilocharax ornatus). This new evidence, building on previous studies, demonstrates how small size and relative transparency, combined with the unique capabilities of THG microscopy, can enable label‐free access to the entire adult vertebrate brain.
Risk of depression in persons with Alzheimer's disease: A national cohort study
Authors: Crump Casey , Sieh Weiva , Vickrey Barbara G. , Edwards Alexis C. , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Depression is a risk factor and possible prodromal symptom of Alzheimer's disease (AD), but little is known about subsequent risk of developing depression in persons with AD.

METHODS

National matched cohort study was conducted of all 129,410 persons diagnosed with AD and 390,088 with all‐cause dementia during 1998–2017 in Sweden, and 3,900,880 age‐ and sex‐matched controls without dementia, who had no prior depression. Cox regression was used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) for major depression through 2018.

RESULTS

Cumulative incidence of major depression was 13% in persons with AD and 3% in controls. Adjusting for sociodemographic factors and comorbidities, risk of major depression was greater than two‐fold higher in women with AD (HR, 2.21; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.11–2.32) or men with AD (2.68; 2.52–2.85), compared with controls. Similar results were found for all‐cause dementia.

DISCUSSION

Persons diagnosed with AD or related dementias need close follow‐up for timely detection and treatment of depression.

Highlights

In a large cohort, women and men with AD had >2‐fold subsequent risk of depression.

Risks were highest in the first year (>3‐fold) but remained elevated ≥3 years later.

Risk of depression was highest in persons aged ≥85 years at AD diagnosis.

Persons with AD need close follow‐up for detection and treatment of depression.
Avoiding and mitigating litigation related to employment issues
Authors: Kaufman Daniel , Passini Emi
Published: April 2024

Although litigation can sometimes shine a bright light on areas where your institution's employment policies and practices need improvement, it's always best to proactively address areas needing improvement so that you can avoid litigation in the first place.
10 tips to make difficult conversations easier
Authors: Schwebel David C.
Published: April 2024

Academia offers plenty of rewarding pleasures; consider commencement, award ceremonies, and student “a‐ha” moments, among others. We also face daily stresses and challenges. One less‐rewarding academic duty is the delivery of difficult news. This need arises for multiple reasons, including policy violations, negative performance reviews, academic dishonesty, and conflict resolution.
Study finds birders with disabilities face accessibility obstacles
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: April 2024

A study conducted by Virginia Tech researchers sheds light on the challenges faced by birders (https://bit.ly/3xej5Id). The study concluded that one in three birders encounters accessibility obstacles during birding activities. Published in the journal Human Dimensions and Wildlife, the research combines the areas of disability studies and wildlife recreation.
Microglia undergo disease‐associated transcriptional activation and CX3C motif chemokine receptor 1 expression regulates neurogenesis in the aged brain
Authors: Fritze Jonas , Muralidharan Chandramouli , Stamp Eleanor , Ahlenius Henrik
Published: April 2024

Adult neurogenesis continues throughout life but declines dramatically with age and in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. In parallel, microglia become activated resulting in chronic inflammation in the aged brain. A unique type of microglia, suggested to support neurogenesis, exists in the subventricular zone (SVZ), but little is known how they are affected by aging. We analyzed the transcriptome of aging microglia and identified a unique neuroprotective activation profile in aged SVZ microglia, which is partly shared with disease‐associated microglia (DAM). CX3C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CX3CR1) is characteristically expressed by brain microglia where it directs migration to targets for phagocytosis. We show that Cx3cr1 expression, as in DAM, is downregulated in old SVZ microglia and that heterozygous Cx3cr1 mice have increased proliferation and neuroblast number in the aged SVZ but not in the dentate gyrus, identifying CX3CR1 signaling as a novel age and brain region‐specific regulator of neurogenesis.
Blending Indigenous and western science: Quantifying cultural burning impacts in Karuk Aboriginal Territory
Authors: Greenler Skye M. , Lake Frank K. , Tripp William , McCovey Kathy , Tripp Analisa , Hillman Leaf G. , Dunn Christopher J. , Prichard Susan J. , Hessburg Paul F. , Harling Will , Bailey John D.
Published: April 2024

The combined effects of Indigenous fire stewardship and lightning ignitions shaped historical fire regimes, landscape patterns, and available resources in many ecosystems globally. The resulting fire regimes created complex fire–vegetation dynamics that were further influenced by biophysical setting, disturbance history, and climate. While there is increasing recognition of Indigenous fire stewardship among western scientists and managers, the extent and purpose of cultural burning is generally absent from the landscape–fire modeling literature and our understanding of ecosystem processes and development. In collaboration with the Karuk Tribe Department of Natural Resources, we developed a transdisciplinary Monte Carlo simulation model of cultural ignition location, frequency, and timing to simulate spatially explicit cultural ignitions across a 264,399‐ha landscape within Karuk Aboriginal Territory in northern California. Estimates of cultural ignition parameters were developed with Tribal members and knowledge holders using existing interviews, historical maps, ethnographies, recent ecological studies, contemporary maps, and generational knowledge. Spatial and temporal attributes of cultural burning were explicitly tied to the ecology of specific cultural resources, fuel receptivity, seasonal movement patterns, and spiritual practices. Prior to colonization, cultural burning practices were extensive across the study landscape with an estimated 6972 annual ignitions, averaging approximately 6.5 ignitions per Indigenous fire steward per year. The ignition characteristics we document align closely with data on historical fire regimes and vegetation but differ substantially from the location and timing of contemporary ignitions. This work demonstrates the importance of cultural burning for developing and maintaining the ecosystems present at the time of colonization and underscores the need to work collaboratively with Indigenous communities to restore ecocultural processes in these systems.
Interactions between nutrients and fruit secondary metabolites shape bat foraging behavior and protein absorption
Authors: Gelambi Mariana , Morales‐M. Estefania , Whitehead Susan R.
Published: April 2024

Frugivore foraging behavior is largely influenced by two key groups of chemical traits: nutrients and secondary metabolites. Many secondary metabolites function in plant defense, but their consumption can negatively impact both mutualistic and antagonistic frugivores, often due to toxic properties of the metabolites or through nutrient absorption interference. Frugivores are assumed to maximize nutrient acquisition while avoiding or minimizing toxic metabolite intake, but the relative roles of co‐occurring nutrients and secondary metabolites in foraging behavior are not well understood. Here, we used a neotropical fruit bat to investigate the interactive effects of nutrients and a broadly bioactive fruit secondary metabolite, piperine, on two essential processes in nutrient acquisition, namely foraging behavior and nutrient absorption. Through the manipulation of nutrient and piperine concentrations in artificial diets, we showed that captive fruit bats prioritize nutrient concentrations regardless of the levels of piperine, even though piperine is a strong deterrent on its own. Furthermore, our findings reveal that while piperine has no detectable influence on total sugar absorption, it reduces protein absorption, which is a crucial and limited nutrient in the frugivore diet. Overall, our results demonstrate the importance of considering the interaction between co‐occurring chemical traits in fruit pulp to better understand frugivore foraging and physiology.