bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Inhibition of Human RANK+ Osteoclast Precursors Identifies a Homeostatic Function of IL-1β
Authors: Lee Bitnara , Kim Tae-Hwan , Jun Jae-Bum , Yoo Dae-Hyun , Woo Jin-Hyun , Choi Sung Jae , Lee Young Ho , Song Gwan Gyu , Sohn Jeongwon , Park-Min Kyung-Hyun , Ivashkiv Lionel B. , Ji Jong Dae
Published: October 2010

IL-1β is a key mediator of bone resorption in inflammatory settings, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA). IL-1β promotes osteoclastogenesis by inducing RANKL expression on stromal cells and synergizing with RANKL to promote later stages of osteoclast differentiation. Because IL-1Rs share a cytosolic Toll–IL-1R domain and common intracellular signaling molecules with TLRs that can directly inhibit early steps of human osteoclast differentiation, we tested whether IL-1β also has suppressive properties on osteoclastogenesis in primary human peripheral blood monocytes and RA synovial macrophages. Early addition of IL-1β, prior to or together with RANKL, strongly inhibited human osteoclastogenesis as assessed by generation of TRAP+ multinucleated cells. IL-1β acted directly on human osteoclast precursors (OCPs) to strongly suppress expression of RANK, of the costimulatory triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells 2 receptor, and of the B cell linker adaptor important for transmitting RANK-induced signals. Thus, IL-1β rendered early-stage human OCPs refractory to RANK stimulation. Similar inhibitory effects of IL-1β were observed using RA synovial macrophages. One mechanism of RANK inhibition was IL-1β–induced proteolytic shedding of the M-CSF receptor c-Fms that is required for RANK expression. These results identify a homeostatic function of IL-1β in suppressing early OCPs that contrasts with its well-established role in promoting later stages of osteoclast differentiation. Thus, the rate of IL-1–driven bone destruction in inflammatory diseases, such as RA, can be restrained by its direct inhibitory effects on early OCPs to limit the extent of inflammatory osteolysis.
IL-17A Is Proatherogenic in High-Fat Diet-Induced and Chlamydia pneumoniae Infection-Accelerated Atherosclerosis in Mice
Authors: Chen Shuang , Shimada Kenichi , Zhang Wenxuan , Huang Ganghua , Crother Timothy R. , Arditi Moshe
Published: October 2010

The role of IL-17 in atherogenesis remains controversial. We previously reported that the TLR/MyD88 signaling pathway plays an important role in high-fat diet as well as Chlamydophila pneumoniae infection-mediated acceleration of atherosclerosis in apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. In this study, we investigated the role of the IL-17A in high-fat diet (HFD)- and C. pneumoniae-induced acceleration of atherosclerosis. The aortic sinus plaque and aortic lesion size and lipid composition as well as macrophage accumulation in the lesions were significantly diminished in IL-17A−/− mice fed an HFD compared with wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 control mice. As expected, C. pneumoniae infection led to a significant increase in size and lipid content of the atherosclerotic lesions in WT mice. However, IL-17A−/− mice developed significantly less acceleration of lesion size following C. pneumoniae infection compared with WT control despite similar levels of blood cholesterol levels. Furthermore, C. pneumoniae infection in WT but not in IL-17A−/− mice was associated with significant increases in serum concentrations of IL-12p40, CCL2, IFN-γ, and numbers of macrophages in their plaques. Additionally, in vitro studies suggest that IL-17A activates vascular endothelial cells, which secrete cytokines that in turn enhance foam cell formation in macrophages. Taken together, our data suggest that IL-17A is proatherogenic and that it plays an important role in both diet-induced atherosclerotic lesion development, and C. pneumoniae infection-mediated acceleration of atherosclerotic lesions in the presence of HFD.
Enhanced Dendritic Cell Antigen Uptake via α2 Adrenoceptor-Mediated PI3K Activation Following Brief Exposure to Noradrenaline
Authors: Yanagawa Yoshiki , Matsumoto Machiko , Togashi Hiroko
Published: October 2010

Although noradrenaline (NA), a stress-associated neurotransmitter, seems to affect the immune system, the precise mechanisms underlying NA-mediated immunoregulation are not fully understood. We examined the effect of NA on Ag uptake (endocytosis) by dendritic cells (DCs) using murine bone marrow-derived DCs and fluorescence-labeled endocytic tracers (dextran and OVA). Ag uptake by DCs notably increased following a very brief treatment (3 min) with NA. NA-induced endocytosis was completely blocked by treatment with α2-adrenoceptor antagonist yohimbine. Neither α1-adrenoceptor antagonist prazosin nor β-adrenoceptor antagonist propranolol affected NA-induced endocytosis by DCs. A selective α2-adrenoceptor agonist, azepexole (B-HT 933), also significantly increased endocytosis by DCs. Thus, the α2-adrenoceptor seems to be responsible for NA-induced DC endocytosis. In parallel, NA markedly activated intracellular signaling pathways of PI3K and ERK1/2 in DCs. NA-mediated activation of these pathways was completely inhibited by yohimbine treatment. Blocking PI3K activation significantly reduced NA-induced endocytosis by DCs. Based on these results, NA rapidly enhances Ag capture by DCs via α2 adrenoceptor-mediated PI3K activation, which may be associated with immune enhancement following acute stress.
Cutting Edge: The Transcription Factor Eomesodermin Enables CD8+ T Cells To Compete for the Memory Cell Niche
Authors: Banerjee Arnob , Gordon Scott M. , Intlekofer Andrew M. , Paley Michael A. , Mooney Erin C. , Lindsten Tulia , Wherry E. John , Reiner Steven L.
Published: October 2010

CD8+ T cells responding to intracellular infection give rise to cellular progeny that become terminally differentiated effector cells and self-renewing memory cells. T-bet and eomesodermin (Eomes) are key transcription factors of cytotoxic lymphocyte lineages. We show in this study that CD8+ T cells lacking Eomes compete poorly in contributing to the pool of Ag-specific central memory cells. Eomes-deficient CD8+ T cells undergo primary clonal expansion but are defective in long-term survival, populating the bone marrow niche and re-expanding postrechallenge. The phenotype of Eomes-deficient CD8+ T cells supports the hypothesis that T-bet and Eomes can act redundantly to induce effector functions, but can also act to reciprocally promote terminal differentiation versus self-renewal of Ag-specific memory cells.
Host Genes Associated with HIV-1 Replication in Lymphatic Tissue
Authors: Smith Anthony J. , Li Qingsheng , Wietgrefe Stephen W. , Schacker Timothy W. , Reilly Cavan S. , Haase Ashley T.
Published: October 2010

Much effort has been spent recently in identifying host factors required for HIV-1 to effectively replicate in cultured human cells. However, much less is known about the genetic factors in vivo that impact viral replication in lymphatic tissue, the primary anatomical site of virus–host interactions where the bulk of viral replication and pathogenesis occurs. To identify genetic determinants in lymphatic tissue that critically affect HIV-1 replication, we used microarrays to transcriptionally profile and identify host genes expressed in inguinal lymph nodes that were associated determinants of viral load. Strikingly, ∼95% of the transcripts (558) in this data set (592 transcripts total) were negatively associated with HIV-1 replication. Genes in this subset 1) inhibit cellular activation/proliferation (e.g., TCFL5, SOCS5 and SCOS7, KLF10), 2) promote heterochromatin formation (e.g., HIC2, CREBZF, ZNF148/ZBP-89), 3) increase collagen synthesis (e.g., PLOD2, POSTN, CRTAP), and 4) reduce cellular transcription and translation. Potential anti–HIV-1 restriction factors were also identified (e.g., NR3C1, HNRNPU, PACT). Only ∼5% of the transcripts (34) were positively associated with HIV-1 replication. Paradoxically, nearly all of these genes function in innate and adaptive immunity, particularly highlighting heightened gene expression in the IFN system. We conclude that this conventional host response cannot contain HIV-1 replication and, in fact, could well contribute to increased replication through immune activation. More importantly, genes that have a negative association with virus replication point to target cell availability and potentially new viral restriction factors as principal determinants of viral load.
Spatial and temporal variability in the ratio of trace gases emitted from biomass burning
Authors: van Leeuwen T. T. , van der Werf G. R.
Published: October 2010

Abstract. Fires are a major source of trace gases and aerosols to the atmosphere. Quantitative knowledge on biomass burned is improving, most importantly due to new burned area datasets. The partitioning of biomass burned into emitted trace gases and aerosols, however, has received relatively little attention. To convert estimates of biomass burned to trace gas and aerosol emissions, most studies have used emission ratios (or emission factors (EFs)) based on the arithmetic mean of field measurement outcomes, stratified by biome. However, EFs vary substantially in time and space, even within a single biome. In addition, it is unknown whether the measurement locations provide a representative sample for the various biomes. Here we used the available body of EF literature in combination with satellite-derived information on vegetation characteristics and climatic conditions to better understand the spatio-temporal variability in EFs. While focusing on CO, CH4, and CO2, our findings are also applicable to other trace gases and aerosols. We explored relations between EFs and different satellite datasets thought to drive part of the variability in EFs (tree cover density, vegetation greenness, temperature, precipitation, and the length of the dry season). Although reasonable correlations were found for specific case studies, correlations based on the full suite of available measurements were less satisfying (rmax=0.62). This may be partly due to uncertainties in the driver datasets, differences in measurement techniques, assumptions on the ratio between flaming and smoldering combustion, and incomplete information on the location and timing of measurements. We derived new mean EFs, using the relative importance of each measurement location with regard to the amount of biomass burned. These weighted averages were within 18% of the arithmetic mean. We argue that from a global modeling perspective, future measurement campaigns could be more beneficial if measurements are made over the full fire season, or alternatively if relations between ambient conditions and EFs receive more attention.
Reforma Agraria: Teoría y Práctica. La experiencia de Nicaragua
Authors: Saravia-Matus Silvia L , Saravia-Matus Jimmy
Published: October 2010

La experiencia nicaragüense se considera un valioso caso de estudio puesto que permite analizar en detalle el impacto de una exhaustiva modificación al sistema de propiedad privada y mercados relacionados a la agricultura que tuvo lugar en un relativamente corto periodo de tiempo. De esta manera, es posible evaluar cómo las políticas gubernamentales cambiaron el escenario institucional y económico, así como el comportamiento de los diferentes agentes (en lo referente a sus planes de producción e inversión). Nuestros hallazgos indican que la estructura de incentivos y una intervención estatal coordinada son aspectos cruciales para alcanzar un desarrollo sostenido. La agenda rural del Sandinismo incluía detallados programas estructurales encaminados a la eliminación del modelo latifundista antecesor, pero hacia finales de la década de los 80, la agricultura nacional se encontraba estancada. En el presente estudio se alega que las consecuencias de una reforma agraria descoordinada incrementaron las imperfecciones, no solamente del mercado de tierras, sino también del mercado laboral y crediticio en Nicaragua. Una importante conclusión radica en que sin un ambiente institucional adecuado y legítimo que reduzca la incertidumbre y mantenga los incentivos financieros intactos, el acceso abundante a recursos no conlleva necesariamente a una mayor actividad económica.Palabras clave: reforma agraria / políticas / Revolución Sandinista / NicaraguaDOI: 10.5377/encuentro.v41i84.48Encuentro 2009/ Año XLI, N° 84, 21-43
El riesgo cardiovascular en el desarrollo y prevención de Alzheimer y otras demencias. ¿Quién le teme a Alois Alzheimer?
Authors: Delgado Enrique Sánchez
Published: October 2010

DOI: 10.5377/encuentro.v41i84.54Encuentro 2009/ Año XLI, N° 84, 99-101
Un nuevo modelo de innovación tecnológica del agro nicaragüense
Authors: Pacheco Manuel Enrique Pedroza
Published: October 2010

¿Qué se puede hacer para transformar y superar esta realidad? No hay formulas mágicas para resolver una problemática institucional, tecnológica y socio-económica tan compleja como la del agro nicaragüense. Sin embargo, sin pensar que esto es lo único y lo concluyente, se propone: implementar una estrategia apropiada para la transformación productiva del agro nicaragüense que conlleve a: a) lograr el crecimiento del mercado de servicios tecnológicos vía oferta y demanda; b) crear más y mejores oportunidades de trabajo productivo, fundamentalmente en el sector rural; c) estimular la inversión nacional e internacional en Nicaragua, promoviendo la agroindustria y los agronegocios.
Ethics in Health Research
Authors: Wikler Daniel
Published: October 2010

That medical research with human subjects presents ethical issues and problems is well known. I will talk about some of these in what follows. But it is worth emphasizing beforehand that if there is one overwhelming problem involving research that is of great of ethical importance, it is that there is not enough research. So the purpose of this presentation is not to point to ethical problems in research in order to discourage research. It is exactly the opposite: it is because of the importance of research that we want to make sure that our purpose is not blocked by ethical problems which we could have avoided if we thought about these things well before hand.
Zinc–Silver Nitroprusside Nanocomposites: Synthesis, Characterization, and Antibacterial Properties with Cytocompatibility
Authors: Lu Yuting , Sathiyaseelan Anbazhagan , Zhang Xin , Wang Myeong‐Hyeon
Published: February 2025

The emergence of bacterial infections poses an enormous health, economic, and global burden on organisms. However, silver‐based materials with strong antibacterial activity are difficult to apply due to the high toxicity. Therefore, zinc–silver nitroprusside nanocomposites (Zn–AgNP NCs) are prepared using sodium nitroprusside as a medium and characterized to achieve enhancement of their antibacterial properties and reduction of their cytotoxicity. Herein, the Zn–AgNP NCs show a cubic shape with an average size of 161.23 ± 3.77 nm and exhibit a negative zeta potential (–25 ± 0.23 mV). The Zn–AgNP NCs exhibit crystalline properties similar to those of silver nitroprusside nanoparticles (AgNP NPs) and zinc nitroprusside nanoparticles (ZnNP NPs). Furthermore, Zn–AgNP NCs demonstrate enhanced antibacterial and anti‐biofilm activities against multiple pathogens, including Bacillus cereus (MIC50 = 8.8 μg mL−1), and induce high levels of nucleic acid and protein leakage in bacteria. In addition, Zn–AgNP NCs demonstrate low cytotoxicity (below 15.6 μg mL−1) and high biocompatibility (up to 250 μg mL−1). Overall, Zn–AgNP NCs exhibit excellent antibacterial capabilities and superior biocompatibility compared to AgNP NPs. This study suggests that Zn–AgNP NCs have the potential to be utilized as a safe and effective antibacterial agent.
Temperature‐Inert Weakly Solvating Electrolytes for Low‐Temperature Lithium‐Ion Batteries with Micro‐Sized Silicon Anodes
Authors: Sang Xiaoyu , Hu Kangjia , Chen Jiaxin , Wang Zhangci , Xu Henghui , Huang Yunhui , Hu Xianluo
Published: February 2025

Cost‐effective micro‐sized silicon (μSi) anodes with high specific capacity are promising for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries but face significant volume changes during cycling. Constructing anion‐derived, inorganic‐rich solid‐electrolyte interphase by electrolyte engineering is considered a viable strategy for stabilizing μSi anodes. However, at low temperatures, temperature‐dependent anion‐dominated solvation and sluggish Li+ desolvation hinder cyclability and capacity retention. Here we introduce a unique temperature‐inert weakly solvating electrolyte (TIWSE) that preserves the anion‐dominated solvation sheath and has weak solvent coordination capability, enabling stable cycling of μSi anodes in subzero environments. The crucial role of NO3− anions with a high donor number in regulating competitive coordination in TIWSE is unveiled. As a result, μSi||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 full cells with TIWSE demonstrate impressive capacity retention of 91.8% at −20 °C and 80.8% at 30 °C after 100 cycles, along with a high specific capacity of 137.4 mAh g−1 at 6 C. Furthermore, a 1‐Ah pouch cell of Si‐C||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 shows remarkable cycling stability with 89.3% capacity retention over 300 cycles at 30 °C and 77.3% retention at −20 °C, demonstrating the practical applicability. This work highlights the importance of solvation chemistry in addressing low‐temperature challenges and offers new insights into high‐energy μSi‐based lithium‐ion batteries operating under harsh conditions.
In Situ Self‐Assembly of Artificial Topological Nanostructures Enhances In Vivo Efficacy of PCSK9 Inhibitory Peptides
Authors: Li Qin , Mu Zhaode , Dong Yuhan , Ouyang Zubin , Zuo Jianli , Wu Yijie , Yang Yuxuan , Sun Si , Liang Hongwen , Bai Lijuan
Published: February 2025

Optimizing the stability and affinity of peptides in vivo is critical for their development as alternatives to approved monoclonal antibodies. In recent years, efforts in academia and industry have focused on modifying Pep2‐8, a classical antagonistic peptide targeting proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9), to enhance its specificity and affinity. However, developing effective PCSK9 inhibitory peptides remains challenging, especially given the limited examples of their successful in vivo applications. Here, we designed transformable inhibitory peptide (TIP) against PCSK9 based on the modular structure of Pep2‐8. Upon encountering PCSK9, TIP undergoes in situ self‐assembly at the epidermal growth factor‐like domain A (EGF‐A) binding domain of PCSK9 to form artificial topological nanostructures (ATNs). The ATNs not only enhance peptide stability and prolong in vivo retention time but also strengthen PCSK9 binding through multivalent synergistic effects. We demonstrate that compared to Pep2‐8, TIP forms ATNs which increasing its binding affinity for PCSK9 by approximately 18.7‐fold in vitro. In high‐fat diet mouse models, TIP significantly increase hepatic LDLR levels (2.0‐fold) and reduced LDL‐C and TC levels. We envision that the in situ formation of ATNs by peptides enhances in vivo stability and affinity, which offering an approach for development as antibody alternatives in clinical.
Preparation and Properties of High Oxygen and Ultraviolet Barrier Biaxially Oriented Polyamide 6/Poly(M‐Xylene Adipamide)/Layered Cerium Oxide Film
Authors: Guo Jiushi , Lin Fenglong , Wang Xinkun , Du Jiahui , Yun Xueyan , Song Lijun , Dong Tungalag
Published: February 2025

Polyamide 6 (PA6) films exhibit low oxygen permeability, good puncture resistance, and high tensile strength, but require enhanced gas and UV barrier properties to better protect sensitive packaged contents from environmental factors. This study investigates the morphology, crystallization, mechanical and barrier properties of biaxial oriented of PA6/MXD6/L‐CeO2 films through the introduction of poly(m‐xylene adipamide) (MXD6) and layered cerium oxide (L‐CeO2). The results demonstrate that blending with MXD6 reduces the oxygen permeability. The addition of L‐CeO2 further improves both oxygen barrier and UV barrier of films. The biaxially oriented PA6/MXD6/L‐CeO2 film with 30% MXD6 and 1.5% L‐CeO2 has 22.0% less oxygen permeation and 69.9% less UV transmission (200–400 nm) than the film only with 30% MXD6. This study contributes to the development of PA6 films with enhanced barrier properties and evaluates the impact of layered cerium oxide filling on film performance.
Unlocking Resources for Source Water Protection in the Face of Climate Change
Authors: White David , Norton Kevin
Published: February 2025

Key Takeaways

The growing threats from extreme weather and climate‐related disasters require collaboration to protect regional water supplies.

Building on the gains included in the 2018 Farm Bill, US water utilities now have greater opportunities to protect source waters and deliver both climate‐ and water‐related benefits.

The recent Inflation Reduction Act created historic funding for and many points of access to landscape‐changing conservation practices.

Supported by AWWA, water utilities have a range of tools and resources for working locally to expand conservation efforts and prioritize their implementation.
Circular Economy Outcomes in Banks: The Role of Environmental Strategy, Women, and the Sustainability Committee
Authors: Allodi Evita , Soana Maria Gaia
Published: February 2025

The study investigates how environmental strategies, board gender diversity, and CSR committees affect the circular economy performance in the banking sector. For the first time, we focus on three specific reduction goals: GHG emission reduction, e‐waste reduction, and offering products to reduce the negative environmental impact. Using a sample of 671 listed worldwide banks from 63 countries in 2010–2021, we demonstrate that green strategies and CSR committees positively affect all three circular economy targets. However, board gender diversity positively impacts bank emission reduction and green products offered but does not influence e‐waste reduction. Furthermore, the presence of the CSR committee significantly improves the effectiveness of environmental strategies adopted by banks in achieving their circular economy performance. The 2015 Paris Agreement on climate change proves to be effective in enhancing bank circular economy reduction outcomes.
First‐In‐Human Dose Finding Study of Venadaparib (IDX‐1197), a Potent and Selective PARP Inhibitor, in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Kim Sung‐Bae , Bae Kyun‐Seop , Lee Jae Lyun , Lee Won Sik , Ock Chan‐Young , Lee Myong‐Jae , Bang Jeongsook , Hong Min Ju , Roh Eun‐Jihn , Ha Kyoung Soo , Lim Jong‐Ha , Kim Yong‐Man
Published: February 2025

Background

Venadaparib, a novel poly (ADP‐ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, has demonstrated high PARP‐1/2 selectivity over other PARP family members and exhibited strong PARP‐trapping activity, effectively inhibiting tumor growth in homologous recombination deficient (HRD) cancer in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

This phase 1, dose‐finding study evaluated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and anticancer efficacy of venadaparib as monotherapy in patients with advanced solid tumors that progressed after standard‐of‐care therapy. The study employed a conventional 3+3 design, with doses ranging from 2 mg/d to 240 mg/d.

Results

Among the 32 enrolled patients, the most common tumor types were breast (16 patients) and ovarian (12 patients) cancers. No dose‐limiting toxicities (DLTs) were observed up to 240 mg/d. The most frequent grade 3 or 4 adverse events were anemia (50%), neutropenia (22%) and thrombocytopenia (6%). Tumor shrinkage by Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumours (RECIST) was observed at doses ≥ 40 mg/d, regardless of BRCA mutation status.Two partial responses out of four ovarian cancer patients receiving venadaparib ≥ 40 mg/d were reported. Clinical benefit, defined as stable disease or partial response, was observed at the lowest tested dose. Venadaparib exhibited ≥ 90% PAR inhibitory effect in pharmacodynamic analysis from 10 mg/d based on tumor samples. The recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) was defined as 160 mg once daily.

Conclusions

Further studies are warranted to explore efficacy and safety of venadaparib in other tumor types and in combination with various agents, as well as to explore relevant biomarkers. (ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT03317743).
Development of A Caregiver‐Reported Scale for Pediatric Cancer Financial Toxicity (CRS‐PCFT)
Authors: Li Pengfei , Zhang Nan , Xu Xinyue , Liu Yan , Lu Zhengyang , Gao Qian , Lin Shihong , Guan Weimin , Yan Wenxuan , Liu Boyu , Lu Youhua , Yu Jinming
Published: February 2025

Background

Financial toxicity is common among families of pediatric patients with cancer. However, the availability of survey and/or screening instruments specific to pediatric family financial toxicity is limited.

Methods

A two‐round cross‐sectional survey was conducted in Shandong Province, China. We combined classical test theory (CTT) and item response theory (IRT) to validate items of the caregiver‐reported scale for pediatric cancer financial toxicity (CRS‐PCFT) after Delphi. The scale structure, reliability, and validity were determined and validated by exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The threshold was discussed based on the correlations between CRS‐PCFT and socio‐factors.

Findings

A 16‐item initial scale was determined after Delphi. The data from 206 pilot survey samples was used to select and validate items, and a 10‐item CRS‐PCFT was developed. The scale showed satisfactory reliability and validity based on data from 398 formal survey samples. When the CRS‐PCFT scores were into high and low toxicity groups by the median, they were significantly correlated with education (r = −0.284, p < 0.0001), household income (r = −0.253, p < 0.0001), work status (r = −0.173, p = 0.001), and cancer stages (r = 0.147, p = 0.003).

Interpretation

CRS‐PCFT demonstrates robust reliability and validity and makes it more accurate to obtain the pediatric cancer financial toxicity conditions. Additional research should be done to validate CRS‐PCFT.
Fragment‐Based Approach for Hierarchical Nanotube Assembly of Small Molecules in Aqueous Phase
Authors: Zia Ayisha , Yi Meihui , Liu Zhiyu , Wang Fengbin , Xu Bing
Published: February 2025

A fragment‐based approach has proven successful in drug design and protein assemblies, yet its potential for constructing biomaterials from simple organic building blocks remains underexplored, particularly for self‐assembly in aqueous phases, where water disrupts intermolecular hydrogen bonding. To the best of our knowledge, this study introduces the first case of integrating fragments from self‐assembling molecules to design a small organic molecule that forms novel hierarchical nanotubes with polymorphism. The molecule's compact design incorporates three structural motifs derived from known nanotube assemblies, enabling a hierarchical assembly process: individual molecules with two conformations form dimers, which organize into hexameric units. These hexamers further assemble into nanotubes comprising 2‐, 5‐, and 6‐protofilament fibers. The nanofibers share a nearly identical asymmetric unit – a hexameric triangular plate – with similar axial and lateral interfaces. The lateral interface, involving interactions between phosphate groups and aromatic rings, exhibits plasticity, allowing slight rotational variations between adjacent units. This adaptability facilitates the formation of diverse nanofiber architectures, showcasing the flexibility of these systems in aqueous environments. By leveraging fragments of self‐assembling molecules, this work demonstrates a straightforward strategy that combines conformational flexibility and self‐assembling fragments to construct advanced supramolecular biomaterials from small organic building blocks in aqueous settings.
Environmental DNA Epigenetics Accurately Predicts the Age of Cultured Fish Larvae
Authors: Ruiz Eliot , Leprieur Fabien , Sposito Gérard , Lüthi Martina , Schmidlin Michel , Panfili Jacques , Pellissier Loïc , Albouy Camille
Published: February 2025

While acquiring age information is crucial for efficient stock management and biodiversity conservation, traditional aging methods fail to offer a universal, non‐invasive, and precise way of estimating a wild animal's age. DNA methylation from tissue DNA (tDNA) was recently proposed as a method to overcome these issues and showed more accurate results than telomere‐length‐based age assessments. Here, we used environmental DNA (eDNA) for the first time as a template for age estimation, focusing on the larval phase (10–24 days post‐hatch) of cultured Dicentrarchus labrax (seabass), a species of major economic and conservation interest. Using third‐generation sequencing, we were able to directly detect various modification types (e.g., cytosine and adenosine methylation in all contexts) across the whole genome using amplification‐free nanopore sequencing. However, aging sites were only present in the mitogenome, which could be a specific feature of eDNA methylation or the consequence of better DNA protection within mitochondria. By considering qualitative and quantitative information about aging sites according to an objective model selection framework, our epigenetic clock reached a cross‐validated accuracy of 2.6 days (Median Absolute Error). Such performances are higher than those of previous clocks, notably for adult seabass even when scaling MAE to the age range, which could be linked to a more dynamic epigenome during early life stages. Overall, our pilot study proposes new methods to determine the potential of eDNA for simultaneous age and biodiversity assessments, although robust validation of our preliminary results along with methodological developments are needed before field applications can be envisaged.
Experimental Study on Optimization of SiO2 Nanoparticles Modification and Flowing Property
Authors: Zhang Dong , Ye Yuze , Zhou Runnan , Wei Jianguang
Published: February 2025

Nanoparticles have received much attention as potential agents to enhance oil recovery (EOR) in low‐permeability reservoirs recently. Compared to water or polymer solutions, they exhibit small sizes and superior rheology, which is important for low porosity and permeability petroleum rocks with nanopores. While the use of nanofluids as injection fluids for enhanced oil recovery has been explored in past studies, application conditions of hydrophobic nanoparticles have not been explored to date. In this study, different hydrophobic functional groups were used to graft on the surface of SiO2 nanoparticles for wettability alteration applications. The synthesized nanoparticles were identified and optimized using contact angle measurement and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). At last, core flowing experiments combined with NMR tests were conducted to study the fluid flow properties of low porosity and permeability reservoirs. Based on the results obtained in this study, the nanoparticles modified by KH570 have the best hydrophobic effect, the optimal reaction conditions including pH = 6, reaction temperature of 84°C, and modifier dosage of 25%. The proportion of 30% between nanoparticles and pores has been recommended as the ideal condition for use in improving flow capacity in low‐permeability reservoirs. Our findings offer fresh insights into the fundamental investigations on the implications of nanofluid injection for enhanced oil recovery at a microscale scale.
Neutrophil‐to‐Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor for PD‐L1 Inhibitor Treatment in Recurrent or Metastatic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma
Authors: Gao Kun , Wei Zhigong , Liu Zheran , Pei Yiyan , Li Huilin , Song Ge , Xiang Jin , Ge Junyou , Qing Yan , Wei Youneng , Ai Ping , Chen Ye , Peng Xingchen
Published: February 2025

Background

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can be treated as a simple indicator of patients' immune status by representing the state of the systemic inflammatory response. Immunotherapy now is the accepted second‐line treatment for recurrent or metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma (R/M NPC). However, the significance of NLR in patients with R/M NPC undergoing treatment with PD‐L1 (programmed cell death‐ligand 1) inhibitors is still uncertain.

Methods

We analyzed the relationship between baseline NLR with 153 patients' efficacy and survival from a multicenter, prospective, Phase 2 study. We employed restricted cubic spline plots to get the nonlinear relationship between NLR and progression‐free survival (PFS) or overall survival (OS). We identified the ideal cut‐off value through the analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve). We used Logistic regression, Cox regression, Log‐rank test, and Kaplan–Meier method to analyze the association between NLR and patients' disease control rate (DCR) and PFS or OS.

Results

The ideal threshold value for NLR was 2.826. NLR was identified as a significant independent predictor of DCR (OR = 0.17, 95% CI = 0.05–0.48, p = 0.001), indicating that a higher NLR is associated with worse DCR. NLR (AUC = 0.634) showed superior predictive capability for DCR in comparison to lymphocytes (AUC = 0.602) and neutrophils (AUC = 0.593). High NLR values were risk factors both for poor PFS (HR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.58–4.06, p < 0.001) and OS (HR = 3.89, 95% CI = 2.09–7.24, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Elevated NLR is strongly associated with lower response to treatment and reduced survival rates in patients with R/M NPC being treated with PD‐L1 inhibitors. Patients with high NLR values have poor efficacy and survival.
Biosurfactant Enhanced Saturated Pool Boiling Heat Transfer Over Plain Copper Surface and Prediction Through Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Sahu Pragati P. , Jha Prashant K. , Swain Abhilas , Sarangi Radha K. , Kar Satya P.
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the impact of coco glucoside, a bio‐surfactant, on heat transfer during pool boiling experiments with acetone, methanol, and ethanol using a smooth copper surface. Solutions containing coco glucoside were tested at concentrations of 0.5, 1, and 1.5 mL per 100 mL of fluid (500, 1000, and 1500 ppm). The research focused on heat transfer coefficients (HTC), bubble formation, and surface temperatures to assess how coco glucoside influences heat transfer efficiency. The results are presented in terms of wall superheat and boiling HTC with respect to heat flux and concentration of coco‐glucoside. The results indicate that coco glucoside enhances heat transfer efficiency in acetone and methanol when used at concentrations up to 1000 ppm. Specifically, the maximum HTC observed at the 1 mL concentration of surfactant was 12,121 W/m²K for acetone and 8185 W/m²K for methanol, representing improvements of 11% and 26%, respectively, compared to pure liquids. These improvements are attributed to lower surface tension and enhanced bubble nucleation. However, at a concentration of 1500 ppm, a decrease in HTC was noted, likely due to micelle formation. In contrast, ethanol exhibited a continuous increase in HTC with rising coco glucoside concentration, achieving a 35% improvement at 1500 ppm. Additionally, the study explored predicting HTC using machine learning algorithms. K‐nearest neighbors (KNNs) and random forest models were evaluated. KNN achieved an R² of 0.9895 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 7.495% for acetone, while random forest (RF) showed an R² of 0.9785 and a MAPE of 12.01% for ethanol. These findings demonstrate the potential of coco glucoside in improving heat transfer and the effectiveness of machine learning in optimizing thermal management processes.
Inkjet‐printed reconfigurable and recyclable memristors on paper
Authors: Chen Jinrui , Xiao Mingfei , Chen Zesheng , Khan Sibghah , Ghosh Saptarsi , Macadam Nasiruddin , Chen Zhuo , Zhou Binghan , Yun Guolin , Wilk Kasia , Psaltakis Georgios , Tian Feng , Fairclough Simon , Xu Yang , Oliver Rachel , Hasan Tawfique
Published: February 2025

Reconfigurable memristors featuring neural and synaptic functions hold great potential for neuromorphic circuits by simplifying system architecture, cutting power consumption, and boosting computational efficiency. Building upon these attributes, their additive manufacturing on sustainable substrates further offers unique advantages for future electronics, including low environmental impact. Here, exploiting the structure–property relationship of inkjet‐printed MoS2 nanoflake‐based resistive layer, we present paper‐based reconfigurable memristors. We demonstrate a sustainable process covering material exfoliation, device fabrication, and device recycling. With >90% yield from a 16 × 65 device array, our memristors demonstrate robust resistive switching, with >105 ON–OFF ratio and <0.5 V operation in non‐volatile state. Through modulation of compliance current, the devices transition into a volatile state, with only 50 pW switching power consumption. These performances rival state‐of‐the‐art metal oxide‐based counterparts. We show device recyclability and stable, reconfigurable operation following disassembly, material collection and re‐fabrication. We further demonstrate synaptic plasticity and neuronal leaky integrate‐and‐fire functionality, with disposable applications in smart packaging and simulated medical image diagnostics. Our work shows a sustainable pathway toward printable, reconfigurable neuromorphic devices, with minimal environmental footprints.

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Phosphorus budgets of intensively managed row crops at a long‐term agroecosystem research site in the upper US Midwest
Authors: Hussain Mir Zaman , Hamilton Stephen K. , Basso Bruno , Robertson G. Philip
Published: February 2025

Phosphorus (P) budgets for cropping systems provide insights for keeping soil P at optimal levels for crops while avoiding excess inputs. We quantified 12 years of P inputs (fertilizer and atmospheric deposition) and outputs (harvest and leaching losses) for replicated maize (Zea mays L.)—soybean (Glycine max L.)—wheat (Triticum aestivum) crop rotations under conventional, no‐till, reduced input, and biologically based (organic without compost or manure) management systems at the Kellogg Biological Station LTAR site in southwest Michigan. Conventional, no‐till, and reduced input systems were fertilized between 13 and 50 kg P ha−1 depending on year. Soil test phosphorus (STP) was measured at 0‐ to 25‐cm depth every autumn. Leached P was measured as dissolved P in the soil solution sampled beneath the rooting depth and combined with modeled percolation. Fertilization and harvest were the predominant P fluxes in the fertilized systems, whereas only harvest dominated P flux in the unfertilized organic system. Leaching losses were minor terms in the budgets, but leachate concentrations were nevertheless close to the range of concern for downstream eutrophication. Over the 12‐year study period, the organic system exhibited a negative P balance (−82.0 kg P ha−1), coinciding with suboptimal STP levels, suggesting a need for P supplementation. In contrast, the fertilized systems showed positive P balances (mean: 70.1 kg P ha−1) with STP levels well above agronomic optima. Results underscore the importance of tailored P management strategies to sustain crop productivity while mitigating environmental impacts.
Assignment of Thermogravimetric Mass Losses to Soil Organic Matter, Its Fractions Hot Water–Extractable and Microbial Biomass Carbon, and Organic Matter–Stabilizing Soil Mineral Properties
Authors: Ortner Malte , Seidel Michael , Diehl Dörte , Vohland Michael , Thiele‐Bruhn Sören
Published: February 2025

Background

The stability of soil organic matter (SOM) can be characterized by thermal analysis. Methods to determine the thermal stability of SOM have recently been increasingly applied in soil analysis. Most studies focus on organic carbon (OC), whereas its subfractions, for example, microbial biomass carbon (MBC) or hot water–extractable carbon (HWEC), representing fast‐reacting pools, have been less investigated.

Aim

A set of 100 soil samples was analyzed for thermal mass losses and their relation to SOM and soil mineral phase properties.

Method

The temperature‐dependent mass losses were determined by thermogravimetric analysis. For this purpose, soils differing in terms of parent material, soil texture, and land use were characterized and analyzed.

Results

Temperature ranges of mass losses and corresponding fractions of different thermal stability (thermolabile and thermostable) were defined. SOM‐related parameters were highly correlated with mass losses of the thermolabile fractions. Mass losses of thermostable matter were significantly correlated with soil mineral phase parameters. The soil thermostability index (STSI) was calculated as the ratio of thermolabile and thermostable mass proportions, represented by the mass losses of selected temperature intervals. Regressions of STSI with ratios of mineral phase parameters to OC (e.g., clay/OC), representing the saturation degree of the mineral phase with OC, HWEC, or MBC, yielded strong relationships.

Conclusion

The saturation of the mineral phase with OC determines the thermal stability of OC. Overall, relevant factors for OC thermal stability were identified. OC and HWEC were significantly correlated with thermal stability and mineral phase saturation. For MBC, no such relationship was found, indicating that its stability is driven by other factors.
Reliability of Physician Estimation of Pelvic Free Fluid Volume on the Pediatric Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma
Authors: Shaahinfar Ashkon , Wiebelhaus Jennifer Rosin , Addo Newton , Cohen Ronald A. , Karakas‐Rothey Pinar , Kornblith Aaron E.
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the reliability of physician gestalt estimation of pelvic free fluid volume on pediatric Focused Assessment with Sonography for Trauma (FAST). To determine a reliable cut‐off volume and characteristics associated with small pelvic free fluid.

Methods

Our study assessed the ability of 2 ultrasound‐trained pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians and 2 pediatric radiologists to characterize pelvic free fluid in a retrospective convenience sample of archived FAST from a Level 1 pediatric trauma center, April 2018–June 2020. Inter‐ and intra‐rater reliability were measured to determine the most reliable volume cut‐off. Chi‐squared and Fisher's exact tests determined characteristics associated with physiologic fluid and fluid volume.

Results

Eighty‐one (10.2%) of 797 FAST had pelvic fluid and met inclusion criteria. Volume estimates using none/trace/small versus moderate/large classifications were moderately reliable by the PEM physicians (κ = 0.65 [95% CI, 0.63–0.66]; raw agreement = 92%) and radiologists (κ = 0.48 [95% CI, 0.47–0.49]; raw agreement = 91%). This volume cut‐off demonstrated higher reliability for both groups and greater agreement for PEM physicians than none/trace versus small/moderate/large. Girls (P = .005), isoechoic (P = .045), and location posterior to bladder (P < .001) were associated with physiologic fluid and hyperechoic (P = .019) with non‐physiologic fluid. Hyperechoic (P < .001), anterior (P < .001), lateral (P = .04), or “other” location (P < .001) relative to the bladder were associated with moderate/large volume.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐trained PEM physicians and pediatric radiologists can reliably use gestalt estimation to distinguish moderate or large fluid from smaller pelvic fluid volumes on pediatric FAST.
Rational cohomology of M4,1$\mathcal {M}_{4,1}$
Authors: Wong Yiu Man , Zheng Angelina
Published: February 2025

We compute the rational cohomology of the moduli space of nonsingular genus 4 curves with one marked point, using Gorinov–Vassiliev's method.
Breast Reconstruction With Low‐Design Bilateral Conjoined Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Flap due to Abdominal Mercedes‐Benz Incision Scar: A Case Report
Authors: Takeishi Hakuba , Miyamoto Shimpei , Kurita Daichi , Tanabe Masahiko , Okazaki Mutsumi
Published: February 2025

Breast reconstruction using an abdominal flap in patients with scarring on the upper abdomen is challenging. We present herein a new approach to two‐stage breast reconstruction using a low‐design bilateral conjoined superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) flap in a 48‐year‐old woman with breast cancer and a Mercedes‐Benz abdominal scar. The 30 × 8 cm2 abdominal flap was designed more inferior than the conventional deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap, excluding the umbilicus and widening the width between the transverse scar of the Mercedes‐Benz incision and the cephalad incision line of the flap. This modification preserved the paraumbilical DIEPs within the upper abdominal skin of the donor site while the abdominal flap was harvested with the bilateral superficial inferior epigastric arteries as the main vascular pedicles. The left and right vascular pedicles were then anastomosed to the proximal and distal ends of the internal mammary vessels, respectively. The flap survived completely after surgery and the donor site healed without any major complications. 6 months after surgery, the reconstructed breast was slightly smaller than its counterpart, although it maintained good shape. The low‐flap design in this case contributed to the prevention of donor‐site complications, and the use of a bilateral conjoined SIEA flap allowed for the transfer of the entire abdominal pannus without compromising the strength of the abdominal wall. The case reported herein shows that this technique can be a viable reconstructive option for patients with a history of scarring on the upper abdomen.
A KAM Theorem for a Class of Reversible Systems With a Large Perturbation
Authors: Chen Lu
Published: February 2025

In the present paper, for a class of reversible systems with a large nonautonomous perturbation, we prove that there is an invariant torus for almost all given Diophantine frequency vectors. As for application, we also prove that the solution of some finite dimensional reversible systems is bounded for almost all initial data.
Atomic Column Generation for Consensus Between Algorithms: Application to Path Computation
Authors: Martin Sebastien , Bauguion Pierre , Magnouche Youcef , Leguay Jérémie
Published: February 2025

In real‐life applications, most optimization problems are variants of well‐known combinatorial optimization problems, including additional constraints to fit with a particular use case. Usually, efficient algorithms to handle a restricted subset of these additional constraints already exist or can be easily derived, but combining them together is difficult. The goal of our paper is to provide a framework that allows merging several so‐called atomic algorithms to solve an optimization problem, including all associated additional constraints together. The core proposal, referred to as Atomic Column Generation (ACG) and derived from Dantzig–Wolfe decomposition, allows converging to an optimal global solution with any kind of atomic algorithms. We show that this decomposition improves the continuous relaxation and describe the associated Branch‐and‐Price algorithm. We consider a specific use case in telecommunication networks where several Path Computation Elements (PCE) are combined as atomic algorithms to route traffic. We demonstrate the efficiency of ACG on the resource‐constrained shortest path problem associated with each PCE and show that it remains competitive with benchmark algorithms.