bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A trade-off between information and communication in broadcast protocols
Authors: Awerbuch Baruch , Goldreich Oded , Vainish Ronen , Peleg David
Published: July 2002

This paper concerns the message complexity of broadcast in arbitrary point-to-point communication networks.Broadcastis a task initiated by asingleprocessor that wishes to convey a message to all processors in the network. The widely accepted model of communication networks, in which each processor initially knows the identity of its neighbors but does not know the entire network topology, is assumed. Although it seems obvious that the number of messages required for broadcast in this model equals the number of links, no proof of this basic fact has been given before.

It is shown that the message complexity of broadcast depends on the exact complexity measure. If messages of unbounded length are counted at unit cost, then broadcast requires Θ(↿V↾) messages, whereVis the set of processors in the network. It is proved that, if one counts messages ofbounded length, then broadcast requires Θ(↿E↾) messages, whereEis the set of edges in the network.

Assuming an intermediate model in which each vertex knows the topology of the network in radiusρ≥ 1 from itself, matching upper and lower bounds of Θ(min{↿E↾, ↿V↾1+Θ(l)/ρ}) is proved on the number of messages of bounded length required for broadcast. Both the upper and lower bounds hold for both synchronous and asynchronous network models.

The same results hold for the construction of spanning trees, and various other global tasks.
ADVENTURES IN HUMAN POPULATION BIOLOGY
Authors: Baker Paul T.
Published: July 2002

▪ Abstract  In this professional memoir I trace my career and the changes that occurred after World War II in the biological anthropology studies of human populations. I describe my academic training at the University of New Mexico and Harvard University and my research training at the US Climatic Research Laboratory. During my academic career at The Pennsylvania State University, I directed two multidisciplinary research efforts as part of the International Biological Programme and Man in the Biosphere Program. These were the high-altitude studies in Nunoa, Peru, and the migration and modernization studies of Samoan communities. I describe my participation in the development of these international science programs as well as the effects on the discipline of biological anthropology. In conclusion, I reflect on the growth and development of biological anthropology, particularly in human population biology.
d-AMINO ACIDS IN ANIMAL PEPTIDES
Authors: Kreil G.
Published: July 2002

d-amino acids have been detected in a variety of peptides synthesized by animal cells. These include opiate and antimicrobial peptides from amphibian skin, neuropeptides from snail ganglia, a hormone from crustaceans, and a constituent of a spider venom. cDNA cloning has shown that at those positions where a d-amino acid is found in the end-product, a normal codon for the corresponding l-amino acid is present. This implies that the d-residues are formed from l-amino acids by a posttranslational reaction. A prototype enzyme catalyzing such a reaction has recently been isolated from the venom of the funnel web spider.
THE IMPACT OF TI-PLASMID-DERIVED GENE VECTORS ON THE STUDY OF THE MECHANISM OF ACTION OF PHYTOHORMONES
Authors: Walden R. , Reiss B. , Koncz C. , Schell J.
Published: July 2002

▪ Abstract  The molecular basis of tumor formation on dicotyledonous plants by Agrobacterium relies on the transfer to the plant cell of a unique segment of bacterial DNA, the T-DNA. The T-DNA contains genes that are active in the plant cell and encode hormone biosynthetic enzymes, or proteins that deregulate the cell's response to phytohormones. Study of this process has yielded not only knowledge of how alterations in phytohormone homeostasis can affect plant cell growth, but also has provided the essential tools to study phytohormone signaling in transgenic plants. Furthermore, T-DNA insertion into the plant genome forms the basis of gene tagging, a versatile method for isolating genes involved in phytohormone signal transduction and action.
Conversion From Vagal to Sympathetic Predominance With Strenuous Training in High-Performance World Class Athletes
Authors: Iellamo Ferdinando , Legramante Jacopo M. , Pigozzi Fabio , Spataro Antonio , Norbiato Guido , Lucini Daniela , Pagani Massimo
Published: July 2002

Background

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Benefits of moderate endurance training include increases in parasympathetic activity and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) and a relative decrease in sympathetic tone. However, the effect of very intensive training load on neural cardiovascular regulation is not known. We tested the hypothesis that strenuous endurance training, like in high-performance athletes, would enhance sympathetic activation and reduce vagal inhibition.

Methods and Results

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We studied the entire Italian junior national team of rowing (n=7) at increasing training loads up to 75% and 100% of maximum, the latter ∼20 days before the Rowing World Championship. Autoregressive power spectral analysis was used to investigate RR interval and blood pressure (BP) variabilities. BRS was assessed by the sequences method. Increasing training load up to 75% of maximum was associated with a progressive resting bradycardia and increased indexes of cardiac vagal modulation and BRS. However, at 100% training load these effects were reversed, with increases in resting heart rate, diastolic BP, low-frequency RR interval, and BP variabilities and decreases in high-frequency RR variability and BRS. Three athletes later won medals in the World Championship.

Conclusions

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This study indicates that very intensive endurance training shifted the cardiovascular autonomic modulation from a parasympathetic toward a sympathetic predominance. This finding should be interpreted within the context of the substantial role played by the sympathetic nervous system in increasing cardiovascular performance at peak training. Whether the altered BP and autonomic function shown in this study might be in time hazardous to human cardiovascular system remains to be established.
A Potts Neuron Approach to Communication Routing
Authors: Häkkinen Jari , Lagerholm Martin , Peterson Carsten , Söderberg Bo
Published: July 2002

A feedback neural network approach to communication routing problems is developed, with emphasis on multiple shortest path problems, with several requests for transmissions between distinct start and end nodes. The basic ingredients are a set of Potts neurons for each request, with interactions designed to minimize path lengths and prevent overloading of network arcs. The topological nature of the problem is conveniently handled using a propagator matrix approach. Although the constraints are global, the algorithmic steps are based entirely on local information, facilitating distributed implementations. In the polynomially solvable single-request case, the approach reduces to a fuzzy version of the Bellman-Ford algorithm. The method is evaluated for synthetic problems of varying sizes and load levels, by comparing to exact solutions from a branch-and-bound method, or to approximate solutions from a simple heuristic. With very few exceptions, the Potts approach gives high-quality legal solutions. The computational demand scales merely as the product of the numbers of requests, nodes, and arcs.
Evolution of Genetic Codes through Isologous Diversification of Cellular States
Authors: Takagi Hiroaki , Kaneko Kunihiko , Yomo Tetsuya
Published: July 2002

Evolution of genetic codes is studied as change in the choice of enzymes that are used to synthesize amino acids from the genetic information of nucleic acids. We propose the following theory: the differentiation of physiological states of a cell allows for a choice of enzymes, and this choice is later fixed genetically through evolution. To demonstrate this theory, a dynamical systems model consisting of the concentrations of metabolites, enzymes, amino acyl tRNA synthetase, and tRNA–amino acid complexes in a cell is introduced and studied numerically. It is shown that the biochemical states of cells are differentiated by cell-cell interactions, and each differentiated type starts to use a different synthetase. Through the mutation of genes, this difference in the genetic code is amplified and stabilized. The relevance of this theory to the evolution of non-universal genetic code in mitochondria is suggested. The present theory is based on our recent theory of isologous symbiotic speciation, which is briefly reviewed. According to the theory, phenotypes of organisms are first differentiated into distinct types through the interaction and developmental dynamics, even though they have identical genotypes; later, with mutation in the genotype, the genotype also differentiates into discrete types, while maintaining the “symbiotic” relationship between the types. Relevance of the theory to natural as well as artificial evolution is discussed.
EARLIEST CHRISTIANITY IN COUNTERFACTUAL FOCUS
Authors: Crossan John Dominic
Published: July 2002

Granted that the historical Jesus existed and was confessed as Christ and Lord, what might have changed earliest Christianity utterly or even stopped it completely? I propose four events which would have altered Christianity beyond at least my capacity to imagine. What if all of earliest Christianity had stayed among the small hamlets of rural Galilee rather than some of it moving immediately to great cities like Jerusalem, Damascus, and Antioch? What if earliest Christianity had not accepted pagans alongside Jews within the new eschatological community of God? What if three revolts within seventy years, inside and outside the Jewish homeland, had not brought down upon it the destructive vengeance of the Roman empire? What if that same empire had not adopted a "don't ask, don't tell" attitude towards earliest Christianity but made it immediately a forbidden superstition?
Le Principe Du Beau Chez Plotin: Réflexions sur Enneas VI.7.32 et 33
Authors: Stern-Gillet Suzanne
Published: July 2002

The status of beauty in Plotinus' metaphysics is unclear: is it a Form in Intellect, the Intelligible Principle itself, or the One? Basing themselves on a number of well-known passages in the Enneads, and assuming that Plotinus' Forms are similar in function and status to Plato's, many scholars hold that Plotinus theorized beauty as a determinate entity in Intellect. Such assumptions, it is here argued, lead to difficulties over self-predication, the interpretation of Plotinus's rich and varied aesthetic terminology and, most of all, the puzzling dearth of references, in the whole of the Enneads, to a Form of Beauty. A detailed reading of VI.7.32 and 33 reveals that, in these two crucial passages at least, Plotinus adopts an aesthetic approach to the One and that, far from confining Beauty to Intellect, he equates the One, the Good and the Beautiful. This reading is here supported not only by an analysis of the text but also by a consideration of the semantic differences between μορη and ειδος, the inter-relatedness, in Plotinus' philosophy, of the concepts of love and value, and the exclusion of beauty from the πρωτα γενη. In turn, the exegesis of VI.7.32 and 33 raises the issue of the significance for aesthetics understood in the narrow sense of the word, of Plotinus's ontology of beauty. It is here claimed that in so far as sensible beauty, both artistic and natural, can be nothing else than an effect of the shaping action of the Forms and a reflection of their radiance, singular or global, it should not be held that Plotinus had an aesthetics in the modern sense of this term.
Distribution, natural history and morphometrics of the critically endangered Coluber hippocrepis populations of Sardinia: a review, with additional data and conservation implications
Authors: Filippi Ernesto , Luiselli Luca , Capula Massimo , Corti Claudia
Published: July 2002

Abstract. The horseshoe snake (Coluber hippocrepis) is one of the most threatened Italian snakes, especially in Sardinia where its present occurrence was unclear. This paper reviews the current distribution of C. hippocrepis in Sardinia, and confirms that this species is still found in a limited number of sites of Cagliari province. Its actual presence in Oristano province, on the contrary, is still in doubt. Statistical analyses on several morphometric measurements taken from museum specimens suggest that snakes from the central Mediterranean area (Sardinia, Pantelleria, and Tunisia) are distinguished from those of the western Mediterranean area (Portugal and Morocco) by having significantly higher numbers of ventrals. A few natural-history notes on Sardinian specimens are presented, and a rationale for an urgent conservation plan is given.
HUMAN SCIENCE RESEARCH AS THE EMBODIMENT OF OPENNESS: SWIMMING UPSTREAM IN A TECHNOLOGICAL CULTURE
Authors: Halling Steen , Dahlberg Karin
Published: July 2002

The principle of openness is central to human science (e.g., phenomenological and hermeneutical) approaches to research where the researcher becomes closely involved with the phenomenon under study. This article addresses both the practical and theoretical challenges that confront the researcher who seeks to be open. It also clarifies the meaning of the concept of openness and considers its relationship to the ideal of objectivity. Openness, it is argued, is neither an enduring state nor a trait but requires an ongoing struggle and has different forms at various stages in the research process. Integral to this process is the experience of "being in the dark" which makes it especially difficult for the researcher to remain open. Various ways of managing this experience are presented.
Fusion AML1 transcript in a radiation-associated leukemia results in a truncated inhibitory AML1 protein
Authors: Hromas Robert , Busse Tracey , Carroll Audra , Mack David , Shopnick Rinah , Zhang Dong-Er , Nakshatri Harikrishna , Richkind Kathleen
Published: July 2002

AML1 is a transcription factor that is essential for normal hematopoietic development. It is the most frequent target for translocations in acute leukemia. Recently, fluorescence in situ hybridization was used to identify a novel syndrome of radiation-associated secondary acute myelogenous leukemia that had AML1 translocations. Using polymerase chain reaction, the AML1 fusion transcript was isolated from the patient who had a t(19;21) radiation-associated leukemia. The AML1gene is fused out of frame to chromosome 19 sequences, resulting in a truncated AML protein bearing the DNA binding domain but not the transcriptional activation domain. This fusion AML1 protein functions as an inhibitor of the normal AML1 protein.
Low frequency of BCL-2/JH translocation in peripheral blood lymphocytes of healthy Japanese individuals
Authors: Yasukawa Masaki , Bando Shiro , Dölken Gottfried , Sada Eiji , Yakushijin Yoshihiro , Fujita Shigeru , Makino Hideichi
Published: July 2002

The incidence of follicular lymphoma differs significantly between white and Japanese individuals. Translocation between theBCL-2 and immunoglobulin heavy chain genes is detected in 85% to 90% of all follicular lymphomas in whites. Recently,BCL-2/JH translocation was detected in peripheral blood lymphocytes from more than 50% of healthy white individuals. To clarify the reason for the difference in incidence of follicular lymphoma between whites and Japanese, the frequency ofBCL-2/JH translocation in peripheral blood lymphocytes of healthy Japanese individuals was compared with that of German individuals. The prevalence of BCL-2/JHtranslocation in Japanese adults appeared to be significantly lower than that in German adults. The present data suggest that the low frequency of BCL-2/JH translocation in the Japanese general population may be one of the major reasons for the difference in incidence of follicular lymphoma between whites and Japanese.
Regulation of fetal versus embryonic gamma globin genes: appropriate developmental stage expression patterns in the presence of HS2 of the locus control region
Authors: Yu Timothy , Thomas David M. , Zhu Wei , Goodman Morris , Gumucio Deborah L.
Published: July 2002

The γ genes provide the major contribution to beta-like globin chain production in the fetal liver of humans. However, the expression of γ genes in the fetus is a recent evolutionary trend seen only in the primate lineage. In a previous study, it was shown that galago and human γ genes retain their characteristic stage-specific expression patterns in transgenic mice (galago γ is expressed exclusively in the embryo, whereas human γ is expressed in the fetus). In that experiment, human and galago γ genes were linked to hypersensitive site 3 (HS3) of the locus control region. To rule out the possibility that HS3 is required for these differential expression profiles, additional transgenic lines were tested in which human or galago γ genes were linked to HS2. Once again, the galago γ gene was embryonic and the human γ gene was fetal, indicating that the stage specificity of these genes is driven by elements located within the 4-kb fragments that contain the human and galago γ genes proper.
Frequent mutations in the ligand-binding domain of PML-RARα after multiple relapses of acute promyelocytic leukemia: analysis for functional relationship to response to all-transretinoic acid and histone deacetylase inhibitors in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Zhou Da-Cheng , Kim Soon H. , Ding Wei , Schultz Cynthia , Warrell Raymond P. , Gallagher Robert E.
Published: July 2002

This study identified missense mutations in the ligand binding domain of the oncoprotein PML-RARα in 5 of 8 patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) with 2 or more relapses and 2 or more previous courses of all-trans retinoic acid (RA)–containing therapy. Four mutations were novel (Lys207Asn, Gly289Arg, Arg294Trp, and Pro407Ser), whereas one had been previously identified (Arg272Gln; normal RARα1 codon assignment). Five patients were treated with repeat RA plus phenylbutyrate (PB), a histone deacetylase inhibitor, and one patient experienced a prolonged clinical remission. Of the 5 RA + PB-treated patients, 4 had PML-RARα mutations. The Gly289Arg mutation in the clinical responder produced the most defective PML-RARα function in the presence of RA with or without sodium butyrate (NaB) or trichostatin A. Relapse APL cells from this patient failed to differentiate in response to RA but partially differentiated in response to NaB alone, which was augmented by RA. In contrast, NaB alone had no differentiation effect on APL cells from another mutant case (Pro407Ser) but enhanced differentiation induced by RA. These results indicate that PML-RARα mutations occurred with high frequency after multiple RA treatment relapses, indicate that the functional potential of PML-RARα was not correlated with clinical response to RA + PB treatment, and suggest that the response to RA + PB therapy in one patient was related to the ability of PB to circumvent the blocked RA-regulated gene response pathway.
Bird Flu Is Primarily Transmitted Among Dairy Cattle Through Milking, Study Suggests
Authors: Anderer Samantha
Published: October 2024

This Medical News article discusses a recent study of H5N1 avian influenza transmission in dairy cows.
The US FDA’s New Rule for Regulating Laboratory-Developed Tests
Authors: Aaron Daniel G. , Adashi Eli Y. , Cohen I. Glenn
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint discusses potential benefits and obstacles regarding US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight of laboratory-developed tests.
Trends in Prevalence of Early Introduction of Complementary Foods to US Children, 2016 to 2022
Authors: Ding Guodong , Peng Anqi , Chen Yan , Vinturache Angela , Zhang Yongjun
Published: October 2024

This cross-sectional study analyzes temporal changes in prevalence of early complementary food introduction to US children from 2016 to 2022 and provides up-to-date evidence of this nutrition practice.
Versatile Nanolights From Silicon, Carbon and Oxygen Hybrid System for Optical Applications
Authors: Song Bin , Cui Mingyue , Ji Yujin , He Yao , Kang Zhenhui , Lee Shuit‐Tong
Published: October 2024

Silicon, carbon and oxygen hybrid nanomaterials (i.e., SiCOHNs) have recently drawn extensive attention as versatile photoluminescence (PL) nanosystems. The collective advantages of silicon‐ and carbon‐based nanostructures have resulted in SiCOHNs with tunable and photostable PL properties, abundant possibilities for surface modification, and low biotoxicity. Although SiCOHNs have shown great potential in diverse applications, such as bioimaging, biosensing, drug delivery and information encryption, discovering novel SiCOHNs with explicit nanostructures and elucidating the fundamental mechanisms of their PL properties for bioapplications are highly desirable. In this review, on the preparation of SiCOHNs on the basis of the synthesis conditions and precursors are first focused. Next, the manipulation of the emission wavelength, quantum yield and RTP of SiCOHNs is discussed. On the basis of previous reports and the recent experimental/theoretical results, the primary structure of SiCOHNs is clarified and deduced their possible PL mechanism. SiCOHNs possess bacterial uptake efficiency and/or anticancer capacity, promoting various biomedical applications and proof‐of‐concept applications in anti‐counterfeiting. Finally, current challenges and future trends are summarized as a roadmap for the development of SiCOHNs‐based optical applications.
Exploring Mechanoluminescence of Zinc Alkaline Earth Metal Oxysulfides from Fundamentals to Advanced Applications
Authors: Li Wei , Cai Yiyu , Chang Jianqing , Liu Jianjun , Wang Shanshan , Zhang Jun‐Cheng
Published: October 2024

Mechanoluminescent (ML) materials convert mechanical stimuli into light emission, enabling applications in stress distribution visualization, structural health monitoring, biomechanical imaging, and sono‐optogenetics. Achieving efficient and full‐spectrum ML materials represents a long‐standing challenge. Zinc alkaline earth metal oxysulfides, namely CaZnOS, SrZnOS, BaZnOS, and SrZn2S2O, have emerged as prominent contenders in this field due to their exceptional ML properties. These materials feature low‐stress thresholds for emission activation, high ML intensity without the need for irradiation charging, and tunable spectra ranging from visible to near‐infrared, thus advancing ML research and broadening application possibilities. Here, a comprehensive review of the significant advancements made in ML research on zinc alkaline earth metal oxysulfides over the past decade, encompassing synthesis, characterization, mechanisms, and promising applications is presented. Special attention is focused on addressing conflicting reports on ML generation conditions, recent progress in accurately characterizing ML performance, and understanding mechanical‐to‐optical conversion processes. Future directions in fundamental ML research and the challenges in translating these advancements into practical applications are also discussed.
In situ Triggered Rich‐LiF/Mg Multifunctional Passivation Layer for Modifying the Anode Interface of All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Wang Chengdeng , Wu Jun , Hao Jiamao , Shi Haofeng , Yang Lu , Wang Jiashuai , Wang Zhi , Chen Xiangrui , Li Jinpeng , Gao Yan , Yan Xiaoqin , Gu Yousong
Published: October 2024

Lithium (Li) is a promising anode material for all‐solid‐state Li metal batteries (ASSLMBs) due to its high energy density. However, the interface incompatibility of Li/solid electrolyte and uneven Li deposition induces the penetration of Li dendrites. Herein, a multifunctional rich‐LiF/Mg artificial solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer is constructed from a MgF2‐PVDF‐HFP film to passivate the Li anode and achieve effective inhibition of Li dendrites. Notably, the triggered LixMg alloys rivet the Li6PS5Cl (LPSCl) electrolyte and Li anode together well, producing satisfactory interface contact and reducing overpotential. The mechanism of LiF and LixMg alloys to enhance the stability of the Li/LPSCl interface is further elucidated by density functional theory (DFT). Moreover, the synergistic interaction of LiF with high interfacial energy and LixMg alloys with low diffusion barrier promotes uniform deposition of Li during plating/stripping and structural stability. Therefore, the modified Li‐symmetric cell exhibits ultra‐high critical current density (2.0 mA cm−2) and considerable cyclic stability (more than 1000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2). Remarkably, NCM//LPSCl//3% MgF2‐PVDF‐HFP@Li ASSLMBs exhibit considerable long‐term cycle stability (86.9% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 0.2 C). This work highlights the critical role of the intermediate passivating layer in mitigating side reactions and preventing Li penetration.
Construction of Multiphase Concave Tetrahedral PdInMo Nanocatalyst for Enhanced Alcohol Oxidation
Authors: Guo Qiaoqin , Dou Jingjing , Yang Xiaoxuan , Jiang Zitong , Wang Hui , Liu Yaming , Xie Haijiao , Li Xiang
Published: October 2024

Heterogeneous palladium‐based catalysts show excellent catalytic properties for electrocatalytic oxidation of alcohols, but the construction of such heterogeneous catalysts is a challenge. Here, a multiphase tetrahedral PdInMo nanocatalyst is prepared by a one‐pot reaction method. And the multiphase tetrahedral PdInMo nanocatalyst consists of a face‐centered cubic structure and an intermetallic structure. Due to the oxygen affinity of indium and molybdenum atoms, the interface defects of internal multiphase structure, and intermetallic structure, the multiphase concave tetrahedral PdInMo nanocatalyst shows enhanced catalytic efficiency in the electrocatalytic oxidation reaction of methanol and ethanol. Compared with commercial Pd/C catalysts, PdIn0.117Mo0.037 nanocatalyst has the best mass activity and specific activity. In electrocatalysis of methanol oxidation, the mass activity (2205.57 mA mgPd−1) and specific activity (6.67 mA cm−2) are 4.81 and 3.40 times than that of a commercial Pd/C nanocatalyst (458.5 mA mgPd−1, 1.96 mA cm−2), respectively. In the electrocatalysis of ethanol oxidation, the mass activity (2668.49 mA mgPd−1) and specific activity (8.11 mA cm−2) are 4.06 and 3.14 times than that of the commercial Pd/C nanocatalyst (655.83 mA mgPd−1, 2.58 mA cm−2), respectively. This study provides a reference for the design of highly efficient palladium catalysts for alcohol oxidation.
Targeted Defect Repair and Multi‐functional Interface Construction for the Direct Regeneration of Spent LiFePO4 Cathodes
Authors: Cao Yang , Li Junfeng , Tang Di , Zhou Fei , Yuan Mengwei , Zhu Yanfei , Feng Chengzhi , Shi Ruyu , Wei Xijun , Wang Boran , Song Yingze , Cheng Hui‐Ming , Zhou Guangmin
Published: October 2024

Due to the low economic benefits and environmental pollution of traditional recycling methods, the disposal of spent LiFePO4 (SLFP) presents a significant challenge. The capacity fade of SLFP cathode is primarily caused by lithium loss and formation of a Fe (III) phase. Herein, a synergistic repair effect is proposed to achieve defect repair and multi‐functional interface construction for the direct regeneration of SLFP. Tannic acid (TA) forms a compact coating precursor for a carbon layer on SLFP with abundant functional groups and creates a mildly acidic environment to enhance the reducibility of thiourea (TU). Therefore, TU reduces Fe (III) to Fe (II) and repairs Li‐Fe anti‐site defects of SLFP, while at the same time acting as a source of N/S‐doping elements for the carbon layer at a lower temperature (140 °C). The multi‐functional carbon layer improves the properties of the regenerated LiFePO4 (RLFP) due to the enhanced conductivity, structure maintenance and protection, and the improved kinetics of Li+ transport. Furthermore, the Fe─O and P─O bonds are strengthened, further enhancing the structural stability of the RLFP. Consequently, the RLFP demonstrates outstanding performance with a discharge capacity of 141.3 mAh g−1 and capacity retention of 72% after 1000 cycles at 1 C.
Enhancing Corrosion Resistance and Tribomechanical Characteristics of Powder Coatings via the Integration of Functionalized HF‐Free MXene Reinforcements
Authors: Nazarlou Ziba , Peighambardoust Naeimeh Sadat , Motlagh Peyman Lahe , Aydemir Umut
Published: October 2024

MXene, a new generation of 2D materials, is gaining attention for anti‐corrosion applications due to its large surface area, electrical conductivity, and self‐healing properties. Its low shear strength and self‐lubricating properties enhance wear resistance. Herein, silane functionalized HF‐Free MXene nanosheets “MS‐f_Ti3C2 and MS‐f_Ti3C2@Zn” synthesized through the molten salt method are integrated into the environmentally sustainable powder coating. The electrochemical tests indicate that a powder coating containing a well‐dispersed 1.5 wt.% f_Ti3C2@Zn nanosheets exhibit the highest polarization resistance (1.1 × 106 Ω cm2), lowest Icorr (2.15 × 10−8 A cm−2) and superior anti‐corrosion performance after 42 days of immersion in 3.5 wt.% NaCl. The polarization resistance (Rp) and corrosion current (Icorr) of the untreated coating are measured to be 1.6 × 103 Ω cm2 and 1.6 × 10−5A cm−2, respectively. In addition, the incorporation of MXene material reduces crack development and spalling, and enhances wear resistance during the friction process. The loading of 1.5 wt.% f_Ti3C2@Zn reduces the coefficient of friction (COF) and improves wear rate by 45% and 51%, respectively Analysis of composites via nanoindentation reveals such enhanced mechanical properties. This study presents an effective and sustainable approach to improve the mechanical, tribological, and long‐term corrosion protection of organic coating, thereby exhibiting great potential for using HF‐Free MXene as a multipurpose additive.
Fe(III)‐Catalyzed Intramolecular Hydroamination of 1,3‐Dienes Improved by Using Triphenylphosphate as an Additive
Authors: Kim Ye Jin , Kim Dong Bin , Youn So Won
Published: October 2024

We herein report that the combination of Fe(OTf)3 and triphenylphosphate (TPP, (PhO)3PO) has proven to be an effective catalyst for the intramolecular hydroamination of amino‐1,3‐dienes with an efficiency and scope superior to previously reported methods. This catalytic system demonstrated consistent performance with diverse aminodienes as well as aminoolefins, providing five‐ to seven‐membered N‐heterocycles. We propose a Lewis/Brønsted acid cocatalysis mechanism involving proton transfer through hydrogen bonding with TPP. Catalyst system consisting of inexpensive and nontoxic iron salt and phosphate additive, relatively low loading and recyclability of catalyst, and rapid and high‐yielding reaction are the advantages of this protocol.
Unlocking the Potential of Chemically Modified Nucleic Acid Therapeutics
Authors: Gao Jingjing , Nutan Bhingaradiya , Gargouri Dorra , Pisal Nishkal D. , Do Vy , Zubair Muhammad , Alanzi Hommam , Wang Hiqui , Lee Dongtak , Joshi Nitin , Ullah Aman
Published: October 2024

Nucleic acid therapeutics have demonstrated tremendous potential for treating diseases by targeting the genetic underpinnings at the transcriptomic level. However, their efficacy hinges on robust strategies to protect nucleic acids from degradation during circulation and to facilitate precise delivery to diseased tissues and cells. Here the critical roles of chemical modification and bioconjugation in advancing nucleic acid therapeutics for improved binding affinity, enhanced stability, and targeted delivery are reviewed. Commencing diverse applications, the significance of different chemical modifications is discussed based on recent literature and clinical products, on oligonucleotides. These modifications encompass backbone, ribose, base alterations and bioconjugation techniques such as N‐acetylgalactosamine (GAlNac), aptamers, antibodies, and cell‐penetrating peptides (CPPs). Supported by a clinical perspective, diverse applications and ongoing developments are highlighted. Furthermore, the current landscape of nucleic acid therapeutics and their potential in addressing genetic disorders with multiple cellular/organelle targeting is discussed. Here the promising prospect of combining chemical innovation and bioconjugation strategies is underscored to propel the development of more effective nucleic acid therapeutics.
Efficacy of lymph node dissection around the inferior mesenteric artery with preservation of the left colic artery for rectal cancer
Authors: Takahashi Hidekazu , Saso Kazuhiro , Ohue Masayuki , Noura Shingo , Tanida Tsukasa , Komori Takamichi , Tei Mitsuyoshi , Kagawa Yoshinori , Morita Shunji , Okamura Shu , Miyake Masakazu , Miyoshi Norikatsu , Uemura Mamoru , Fujii Makoto , Ohno Yuko , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Murata Kohei , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi ,   Clinical Study Group of Osaka University, Colorectal Cancer Treatment Group (CSGOCG)
Published: October 2024

Objective

We investigated how Japanese D3 dissection with left colic artery (LCA) preservation affects anastomotic leakage after anterior resection with anastomosis for rectal cancer, based on the leak rate. The correlation between LCA preservation, survival, and cancer recurrence after resection was also analyzed.

Summary and Background Data

It remains unclear how LCA preservation affects the anastomotic leak rate and oncological outcomes after resection remains unclear. Some reports suggested that anastomotic leakage increases local recurrence and decreases cancer‐specific survival.

Methods

In this study, we enrolled and analyzed 457 patients who underwent radical resection of rectal cancer in the period October 2011 through December 2016. The attending surgeon decided preoperatively and registered whether to preserve the LCA. This trial was registered under the UMIN‐CTR Identifier UMIN000006160.

Results

D3 with LCA preservation was successfully completed in 218 (89.3%) of the 244 patients registered in this group, whereas D3 without LCA preservation was successfully completed in all 213 patients registered in this group. After propensity score matching, the anastomotic leakage rate was 7.86% (11/140) after D3 with LCA preservation and 7.14% (10/140) after D3 without LCA preservation. The overall survival rates were 90.1% and 89.3%, and the recurrence‐free survival rates were 77.6% and 77.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that LCA preservation has no effect on the incidence of anastomotic leakage after rectal resection with anastomosis using DST and that oncological outcomes may not be affected.
Microglial responses partially mediate the effect of Aβ on cognition in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Madsen Lasse S. , Ismail Rola , Parbo Peter , Kjeldsen Pernille L. , Schaldemose Jeppe L. , Hansen Kim V. , Gottrup Hanne , Aanerud Joel , Eskildsen Simon F. , Brooks David J.
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

Microglial responses are an integral part of Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology and are associated with amyloid beta (Aβ) deposition. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Aβ and microglial responses on global cognitive impairment.

METHODS

In this longitudinal study, 28 patients with mild cognitive impairment and 11 healthy controls underwent 11C‐PK11195 and 11C‐Pittsburgh compound B positron emission tomography (PET), structural magnetic resonance imaging scans, and global cognitive ratings at baseline and 2‐year follow‐up. Correlations between PET uptake and global cognition were assessed. Additionally, the mediation effect of the microglial response on the association between Aβ load and global cognition was assessed.

RESULTS

Aβ load and the microglial response were both independently detrimental to global cognitive performance at baseline; however, at 2‐year follow‐up the association between Aβ load and global cognitive ratings was partially mediated by the microglial response.

DISCUSSION

As AD progresses, the associated microglial response partially mediates the detrimental effect of aggregated Aβ on cognition.

Highlights

This was a longitudinal study of amyloid beta (Aβ), microglial responses, and global cognitive performance.

Aβ and microglial responses both affect cognition in early Alzheimer's disease.

Microglial response partially mediates the effect of Aβ on cognition in later stages.
Implementation and validation of face de‐identification (de‐facing) in ADNI4
Authors: Schwarz Christopher G. , Choe Mark , Rossi Stephanie , Das Sandhitsu R. , Ittyerah Ranjit , Fletcher Evan , Maillard Pauline , Singh Baljeet , Harvey Danielle J. , Malone Ian B. , Prosser Lloyd , Senjem Matthew L. , Matoush Leonard C. , Ward Chadwick P. , Prakaashana Carl M. , Landau Susan M. , Koeppe Robert A. , Lee JiaQie , DeCarli Charles , Weiner Michael W. , Jack Clifford R. , Jagust William J. , Yushkevich Paul A. , Tosun Duygu ,   for the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: October 2024

INTRODUCTION

Recent technological advances have increased the risk that de‐identified brain images could be re‐identified from face imagery. The Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) is a leading source of publicly available de‐identified brain imaging, who quickly acted to protect participants’ privacy.

METHODS

An independent expert committee evaluated 11 face‐deidentification (“de‐facing”) methods and selected four for formal testing.

RESULTS

Effects of de‐facing on brain measurements were comparable across methods and sufficiently small to recommend de‐facing in ADNI. The committee ultimately recommended mri_reface for advantages in reliability, and for some practical considerations. ADNI leadership approved the committee's recommendation, beginning in ADNI4.

DISCUSSION

ADNI4 de‐faces all applicable brain images before subsequent pre‐processing, analyses, and public release. Trained analysts inspect de‐faced images to confirm complete face removal and complete non‐modification of brain. This paper details the history of the algorithm selection process and extensive validation, then describes the production workflows for de‐facing in ADNI.

Highlights

ADNI is implementing “de‐facing” of MRI and PET beginning in ADNI4.

“De‐facing” alters face imagery in brain images to help protect privacy.

Four algorithms were extensively compared for ADNI and mri_reface was chosen.

Validation confirms mri_reface is robust and effective for ADNI sequences.

Validation confirms mri_reface negligibly affects ADNI brain measurements.
Ultra‐Tough Dynamic Supramolecular Ion‐Conducting Elastomer Induced Uniform Li+ Transport and Stabilizes Interphase Ensures Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Liu Hong , Zhen Fengxu , Yin Xiangkai , Wu Yingbin , Yu Kailiang , Kong Xiangpeng , Ding Shujiang , Yu Wei
Published: October 2024

Artificial polymer solid electrolyte interphases (SEIs) with microphase‐separated structures provide promising solutions to the inhomogeneity and cracking issues of natural SEIs in lithium metal batteries (LMBs). However, achieving homogeneous ionic conductivity, excellent mechanical properties, and superior interfacial stability remains challenging due to interference from hard‐phase domains in ion transport and solid‐solid interface issues with lithium metal. Herein, we present a dynamic supramolecular ion‐conducting poly (urethane‐urea) interphase (DSIPI) that achieves these three properties through modulating the hard‐phase domains and constructing a composite SEI in situ. The soft‐phase polytetrahydrofuran backbone, featuring loose Li+−O coordinating interactions, ensures uniform Li+ transport. Concurrently, sextuple hydrogen bonds in the hard phase dissipate strain energy through sequential bond cleavage, thereby imparting exceptional mechanical properties. Moreover, enriched bis (trifluoromethanesulfonyl) imide anion (TFSI−) in DSIPI promotes the in situ formation of a stable polymer‐inorganic composite SEI during cycling. Consequently, the DSIPI‐protected lithium anode (DSIPI@Li) enables symmetric cells with exceptional cyclability exceeding 4,000 hours at an ultra‐high current density of 20 mA cm−2, thereby demonstrating excellent cycling stability. Furthermore, DSIPI@Li facilitates stable operation of the pouch cells under the constraints of a high‐loading LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 cathode and low negative/positive capacity (N/P) ratio. This work presents a powerful strategy for designing artificial SEIs and high‐performance LMBs.
Denoising Medium Resolution Stellar Spectra With Neural Networks
Authors: Pál Balázs , Dobos László
Published: October 2024

We trained denoiser autoencoding neural networks on medium resolution simulated optical spectra of late‐type stars to demonstrate that the reconstruction of the original flux is possible at a typical relative error of a fraction of a percent down to a typical signal‐to‐noise ratio of per pixel. We show that relatively simple networks are capable of learning the characteristics of stellar spectra while still flexible enough to adapt to different values of extinction and fluxing imperfections that modifies the overall shape of the continuum, as well as to different values of Doppler shift. Denoised spectra can be used to find initial values for traditional stellar template fitting algorithms and—since evaluation of pretrained neural networks is significantly faster than traditional template fitting—denoiser networks can be useful when a fast analysis of the noisy spectrum is necessary, for example during observations, between individual exposures.
Treatment preferences of patients with muscle invasive bladder cancer: A discrete choice experiment
Authors: Mannion Liam , Watson Verity , Mullassery Vinod , Nair Rajesh , Charlton Thomas , Northover Margaret , Enting Deborah , Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Khan Muhammad Shamim , Thurairaja Ramesh , Amery Suzanne , Chatterton Kathryn , Smith Kate , Hughes Simon
Published: October 2024

Background

When faced with treatment options, patients are asked to participate in decision‐making. We sought to determine which treatment aspects matter most for individuals treated for muscle invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), with an aim to improve understanding of patient preferences and what trade‐offs patients are willing to accept. Our study consisted of a discrete choice experiment (DCE): a type of questionnaire used to elicit preferences in the absence of real‐world choice.

Methods

The DCE had five attributives, each with three levels. Participants were asked to complete a questionnaire in which they were asked to choose between two hypothetical MIBC treatments. The data were analysed using a conditional logit model, and preferences for, and trade‐offs between, attributes were estimated.

Results

We recruited patients with MIBC who had either already completed, were undergoing or had yet to commence radical treatment for MIBC (n = 60). Participants indicated a strong preference for treatments that increased their life expectancy (p = <0.001), had a lower risk of long‐term complications (p = <0.001) and less changes to their body image (p = <0.001). Changes to sexual wellbeing (p = 0.09) or an increase in acute side effects (p = 0.99) did not influence preferences. Patients were willing to accept treatments with higher risk of long‐term complications to improve their life expectancy or body image.

Conclusion

When deciding on the type of treatment, increased life expectancy is the most important consideration for people with MIBC. The risk of long‐term complications and changes to overall body image as a result of treatment are also important. Our study also highlighted that patients are willing to accept a higher risk of long‐term complications to improve other treatment outcomes. Understanding patient preferences is important for shared decision‐making, which has an impact on quality of care for people living with MIBC.
Analysis of Antioxidants from Three Parts of Polygonum Chinense based on Online Extraction High Performance Liquid Chromatography Antioxidant Analysis System
Authors: Qian Zhengming , Huang Qi , Wu Mengqi , Yang Weiqi , Wei Zhixiong , Cheng Xinjie , Li Deqiang
Published: October 2024

In the current study, a rapid online extraction combined with high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) antioxidant analysis approach was developed to explore the antioxidant ingredients in three different parts of Polygonum Chinense. A total of 22 chromatographic peaks were found, among which 8 components were found for the first time. And among these 22 peaks, 19 of them were demonstrated as antioxidants. Furthermore, all three parts from Polygonum Chinense exhibited antioxidant activity (13.19, 3.89, and 19.85 mg CE/g extract, for the leaf, stem, and flower, respectively) and the antioxidant activity values of the leaf and flower were more than 3 times that of the stem. The leaf, flower, and stem of Polygonum Chinense had 17, 13, and 15 antioxidant components, respectively. Among them, neochlorogenic acid (2) and quercetin‐3‐O‐malonylglucoside (18) were considered as the main antioxidants in the leaf of Polygonum Chinense. In terms of flower, geraniin (10) and quercetin‐3‐O‐malonylglucoside (18) were proved as the major antioxidants. This is the first report on the antioxidant components from different parts of Polygonum Chinense. It provides foundational scientific data for the continued exploration of chemical and pharmacological study of Polygonum Chinense, which is beneficial for the future product development and quality evaluation improvement of Polygonum Chinense.
Temperature‐Dependent Supramolecular Isomeric Co‐CPs for Luminescence Recognition and Catalytic Oxidation
Authors: Ji Mengna , Liu Tingting , Liu Nana , Hao Hongguo , Li Yunwu , Dou Jianmin , Duan Jingui , Wang Suna
Published: October 2024

Two Co‐based supramolecular isomers were synthesized from a fluorinated carboxylic acid ligand under hydrothermal conditions at varying temperatures. Both exhibited similar one‐dimensional chain structures while different bending connections of the aromatic rings led to different supramolecular structures, namely CoCP‐1 and CoCP‐2, respectively. The structural differences of two isomers resulted in discrepant performance with regards to luminescence sensing and catalysis. CoCP‐1 demonstrated more significant luminescence quenching activity toward biomarkers 2,6‐pyridinedicarboxylic acid (DPA) and homovanillic acid (HVA), which could be distinguished in the presence of Eu3+. The limit of detection (LOD) was found to be as low as 3.4 and 1.3 μM, respectively. The recovery rate of for HVA and DPA was within the range of 98.5–110.3 % and 84.6–99.3 % in simulated urine and serum, respectively, indicating potential reliability in monitoring these two analytes in real samples. Notably, CoCP‐2 exhibited catalytic activity for the oxidation of thioethers to sulfoxides. Our finding here suggests that the coordination conformation of the ligands within supramolecular isomers plays a pivotal role in determining the structure and luminescence sensing/catalysis performance.
Gallatabenzene Ligands Emerging from Open Lutetocene and Yttrocene Methyl Complexes
Authors: Lebon Jakob , Beauvois Maxime , Maichle‐Mössmer Cäcilia , Sirsch Peter , Anwander Reiner
Published: October 2024

Utilizing ternary mixtures [LnMe3]n/K(2,4‐dtbp)/GaMe3 (Ln=Lu, Y; 2,4‐dtbp=2,4‐di‐tert‐butyl‐pentadienyl), a series of metallacycles is accessible via tandem salt metathesis/deprotonation. Depending on the precursor molar ratio, both gallatabenzene and lutetacyclic moieties with fully planar metallacycles are obtained, which were further analyzed using DFT calculations. The precursor molar ratio affects the extent of pentadienyl C−H‐bond activation and oligomerization to tetra‐ and pentametallic arrays. Reacting a 1 : 2 : 2 mixture at −40 °C gave the open sandwich methyl complex (2,4‐dtbp)2Lu(CH3), displaying a vital intermediate for subsequent ring‐closure reactions.