bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Refinement of Primary Si Phase in Hypereutectic Al–Si Alloy by Electrically Assisted Solidification with P Addition
Authors: Jin Su‐Ji , Shin Jungho , Bang Jong‐Won , Kim Yoon‐Jun , Jung Hyun‐Do , Kim Moon‐Jo
Published: August 2024

The efficient processing of hypereutectic Al–Si alloys depends on controlling the microstructure of the primary Si phase during solidification. This study investigates the effects of electric current and phosphorus (P) addition on the refinement of primary Si, with the results confirming that applying electric current during solidification refines the primary Si phase; introducing P further enhances this refinement. Notably, when 10 ppm of P is added (below the identified critical amount of 20 ppm), an improved refinement effect is observed compared with the application of either electric current or P alone. Applying an electric current generates a circulating flow within the melt, resulting in an increased cooling rate, which leads to improved nucleation behavior for the primary Si phase. In addition, the circulating flow generated within the melt influences the dispersion of aluminum phosphide during nucleation. Adding P at concentrations above 40 ppm does not yield further benefits, suggesting a saturation point for its efficacy. This study demonstrates that the concurrent electric current application and minimal P addition can significantly enhance the refinement of primary Si phases, offering a potent approach for optimizing the microstructural properties of hypereutectic Al–Si alloys.
Functionalized 2D/3D Heterojunction with Reversible Iodine‐Alkenes Reaction in Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Yang Hui , Cui Zhengbo , Li Wen , Guo Xuemin , Lu Chunyan , Yuan Haobo , Hu Yuyang , Zhang Wenxiao , Li Xiaodong , Fang Junfeng
Published: August 2024

Long‐term operational stability remains a big challenge for perovskite solar cells (PSCs), especially under ISOS protocol with high temperature. One key reason lies in the iodine loss issue during PSCs aging. Motived by the reversible iodine‐alkenes reaction, 3‐butenylamine (BEA) based 2D perovskite (BEA)2[PbBr4] is used to construct a functionalized 2D/3D heterojunction in PSCs. (BEA)2[PbBr4] can chemically adsorb photo‐generated iodine species during perovskite degradation through a typical reaction between neutral iodine and terminal alkenes, thus inhibiting iodine loss or diffusion in PSCs. Besides, owing to the reversible reaction nature, these adsorbed iodine species can be partially released slowly under heat conditions, further reacting with and eliminating potential metallic Pb0 defects. The resulting PSCs exhibit a high efficiency of 24.5% with good operational stability even without encapsulation, retaining ≈94% of initial efficiency after MPP tracking for 2000 h at 65 °C with ISOS‐L‐2 protocol.
Functional Natural Aluminum Silicate Hydroxide Based Separators Enable Stable Zinc Metal Anodes with Long Cycle Life
Authors: Liu Shuang , Fang Luan , Li Jinhui , Hu Xinyu , Chang Limin , Jian Juan , Xu Tianhao , Wang Hairui , Wang Xuxu , Nie Ping
Published: August 2024

Benefiting from high safety, low cost, and competitive energy density, aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) have emerged as very promising technology for grid energy storage. However, the lifetime of AZIBs is severely affected by uncontrolled zinc dendritic growth and undesirable side reaction. To address the problem, natural aluminum silicate hydroxide covered glass fibers separator (AlSi‐GF) is prepared herein using a simple spraying method. Aluminum silicate hydroxide is a complex oxide, where a large number of adsorption sites can adsorb Zn2+ and guide its deposition process. In particular, the Maxwell–Wagner polarization of aluminum silicate hydroxide under an applied electric field contributes to homogenizing the electric field distribution around the interface, thereby modulating zinc deposition and reducing the nucleation overpotential. Impressively, AlSi‐GF separator enables high‐performance zinc‐metal batteries. The symmetric battery with AlSi‐GF separator has a stable voltage polarization and an ultra‐long cycle life of 2280 h at a current density of 1 mA cm−2, and the Zn//V2O5 full cell based on AlSi‐GF separator can exhibit a high specific capacity of 123 mAh g−1 after 1500 cycles at 1 A g−1. This study provides new insights into the design of reliable and cost‐effective separators for metal anodes in energy storage devices.
Engineering Lipid‐Based Pop‐up Conductive Interfaces with PEDOT:PSS and Light‐Responsive Azopolymer Films
Authors: Terenzi Luca , Gao Ziyu , Ravandeh Mehdi , Fedele Chiara , Klausen Lasse Hyldgaard , Bovio Claudia Latte , Priimagi Arri , Santoro Francesca
Published: August 2024

Significant challenges have emerged in the development of biomimetic electronic interfaces capable of dynamic interaction with living organisms and biological systems, including neurons, muscles, and sensory organs. Yet, there remains a need for interfaces that can function on demand, facilitating communication and biorecognition with living cells in bioelectronic systems. In this study, the design and engineering of a responsive and conductive material with cell‐instructive properties, allowing for the modification of its topography through light irradiation, resulting in the formation of “pop‐up structures”, is presented. A deformable substrate, composed of a bilayer comprising a light‐responsive, azobenzene‐containing polymer, pDR1m, and a conductive polymer, PEDOT:PSS, is fabricated and characterized. Moreover, the successful formation of supported lipid bilayers (SLBs) and the maintenance of integrity while deforming the pDR1m/PEDOT:PSS films represent promising advancements for future applications in responsive bioelectronics and neuroelectronic interfaces.
Half‐metallization Atom‐Fingerprints Achieved at Ultrafast Oxygen‐Evaporated Pyrochlores for Acidic Water Oxidation
Authors: Xu Zuozheng , Meng Ming , Zhou Gang , Liang Chenglong , An Xingtao , Jiang Yuxuan , Zhang Yongcai , Zhou Yong , Liu Lizhe
Published: August 2024

The stability and catalytic activity of acidic oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are strongly determined by the coordination states and spatial symmetry among metal sites at catalysts. Herein, an ultrafast oxygen evaporation technology to rapidly soften the intrinsic covalent bonds using ultrahigh electrical pulses is suggested, in which prospective charged excited states at this extreme avalanche condition can generate a strong electron–phonon coupling to rapidly evaporate some coordinated oxygen (O) atoms, finally leading to a controllable half‐metallization feature. Simultaneously, the relative metal (M) site arrays can be orderly locked to delineate some intriguing atom‐fingerprints at pyrochlore catalysts, where the coexistence of metallic bonds (M─M) and covalent bonds (M─O) at this symmetry‐breaking configuration can partially restrain crystal field effect to generate a particular high‐spin occupied state. This half‐metallization catalyst can effectively optimize the spin‐related reaction kinetics in acidic OER, giving rise to 10.3 times (at 188 mV overpotential) reactive activity than pristine pyrochlores. This work provides a new understanding of half‐metallization atom‐fingerprints at catalyst surfaces to accelerate acidic water oxidation.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Cross‐Coupling of Aryl Alkyl Selenides with Aryl Bromides: Cross‐Coupling Between Two Electrophiles
Authors: Kumar Sumit , Sapra Shivani , Singh Brajendra K.
Published: August 2024

A nickel‐catalyzed cross‐coupling reaction has been developed using two distinct electrophiles: an aryl alkyl selenide and an aryl bromide. The organoselenium compound, due to the lower bond dissociation energy of the C−Se bond, acts as a pseudohalide. This one‐pot reaction proceeds by cleaving the C−Se bond, producing the desired biaryls in moderate to good yields. The use of commercially available aryl bromides eliminates the handling of pre‐formed organomagnesium reagents, enhancing the practicality and applicability of this approach.
Porous Silicon Microparticles Enable Sustained Release of GLP‐1R Agonist Peptides for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Zangabad Parham Sahandi , Vasani Roshan B , Tong Ziqiu , Anderson Dovile , Rudd David , Hick Caroline A. , Wootten Denise , Sexton Patrick M. , Yan Li , Esser Lars , Voelcker Nicolas H.
Published: August 2024

GLP‐1R agonist peptides play a prominent role in the treatment of type 2 diabetes. However, these peptides often suffer from short plasma half‐life, rapid clearance, and low in vivo chemical stability; requiring higher dosages and frequent administration. Although some peptides can be modified to improve these properties, such modification may lead to lower potency and immunogenicity. Here, a subcutaneously (SC) administrable porous silicon microparticle (pSiMP) platform for the sustained release of GLP‐1R agonist peptides is reported. The proof‐of‐concept involves using FDA‐approved exenatide, a potent GLP‐1R agonist, showcasing the platform's efficacy for therapeutic GLP‐1R peptides. pSiMPs with tailored particle size, pore dimensions, and surface chemistry unlock the potential for optimized loading and release of this peptide. The positively charged pSiMPs, with a pore diameter of 8 ± 3 nm, show an impressive loading capacity of 338 ± 42 µg mg−1 (exenatide/pSiMP). This optimized pSiMP formulation demonstrates extended and sustained exenatide release over 2 weeks in a bespoke in vitro SC tissue model. Notably, the pSiMP platform shields the peptide payload from proteolysis. In a mouse model, the SC‐injected formulation exhibits sustained in vivo release of exenatide in plasma for up to 2 weeks.
Foreign aid, exchange rate regime, and agricultural trade
Authors: Kim Kyunghun , Lim Sunghun
Published: August 2024

The least developed agrarian countries often face an ironic situation where well‐intentioned foreign aid adversely influences their economies. This study explores the unintended consequences of official development assistance (ODA) from donor countries on agricultural exports from recipient countries by appreciating their domestic exchange rates. Motivated by the fact that ODA accounts for a larger share of their total GDP, we first examine whether ODA inflows increase the real effective exchange rate of the recipient country. Leveraging data from 47 countries over the period 2001–2018, we find that ODA inflows lead to real exchange rate appreciation, particularly in recipient countries with floating exchange rate regimes that are more susceptible to exchange rate fluctuations. Moreover, our results reveal that ODA inflows decrease agricultural exports in low‐income agrarian economies adopting floating exchange rate regimes. By taking a unique perspective of ODA as an inflow of foreign capital, this study highlights the importance of understanding the exchange rate regime and agricultural trade of the agrarian economy when providing international aid.
Foreign labor, peer‐networking and agricultural efficiency in the Italian dairy sector
Authors: Antonioli Federico , Severini Simone , Vigani Mauro
Published: August 2024

While the presence of immigrants in the agricultural sector is widely acknowledged, the empirical evidence on its economic consequences is lacking, especially from a microeconomic perspective. Using the Farm Accountancy Data Network panel data for Italian dairy farms in the period 2008–2018, the present study investigates the relationship between foreign workforce and farm– technical efficiency, considering the workers' country of origin. We rely on different peer‐network theories, and using a stochastic frontier analysis accounting for the endogeneity of immigrant labor force. Results point to the general positive contribution of immigrants on Italian farms' efficiency, while unpaid family labor exerts a null‐to‐negative influence. We detected an important effect of peer‐working, namely complementary task specialization and conformity behavior, with diverse groups of workers associated to different efficiency levels. The evidence of the positive correlation between immigrants and the efficiency of the agricultural sector has significant implications for the design of immigration policies and the access to domestic agri‐food markets, especially for those sectors in higher labor demand, as well as speeding up the process of economic and social integration of the labor force. [EconLit citations: Q12, Q18, J61, C23, C26].
Prevalence rates for ectodermal dysplasia syndromes
Authors: Butcher Clayton , Abbott Becky M. , Grange Dorothy , Fete Mary , Meyer Beau , Spinka Christine , Fete Timothy
Published: August 2024

Background

Ectodermal dysplasias (EDs) are a heterogeneous group of genetic conditions affecting the development and/or homeostasis of two or more ectodermal derivatives, including hair, teeth, nails, and certain glands. There are currently 49 recognized EDs with molecularly confirmed etiology. The EDs are very rare disorders, individually and in aggregate. Very little is published regarding the prevalence of these rare disorders. As a result of the genomics revolution, rare diseases have emerged as a global health priority. The various disabilities arising from rare disorders, as well as diagnostic and treatment uncertainty, have been demonstrated to have detrimental effects on the health, psychosocial, and economic aspects of families affected by rare disorders. Contemporary research methodologies and databases can address what have been historic challenges encountered when conducting research on rare diseases.

Objective

In this study, we aim to ascertain period prevalence rates for several of the more common ectodermal dysplasia syndromes, by querying a large multicenter database of electronic health records, Oracle Real‐World Data.

Methods

For each of the included ectodermal dysplasia syndromes a clinical definition was developed by a committee of international experts with interests in EDs. The clinical definitions were based upon a combination of clinical features and designated by ICD‐9 and ICD‐10 codes. The January 2023 version of the Oracle Real‐World Data database was queried for medical records that coincided with the clinical definitions. For our study, there were 64,523,460 individual medical records queried.

Results

Period prevalence rates were calculated for the following ED disorders: hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia, found to be 2.99 per 100,000; ectodermal dysplasia and immunodeficiency 1, 0.23 per 100,000; Clouston syndrome, 0.15 per 100,000; ectrodactyly ectodermal dysplasia and cleft lip/palate syndrome, 0.61 per 100,000; ankyloblepharon‐ectodermal defects‐cleft lip/palate syndrome, 0.36 per 100,000; focal dermal hypoplasia, 0.10 per 100,000; and incontinentia pigmenti, 0.88 per 100,000.

Conclusion

This study established estimated period prevalence rates for several of the ectodermal dysplasia syndromes, and it demonstrated the feasibility of utilizing large multicenter databases of electronic health records, such as Oracle Real World Data.
A twin analysis to estimate genetic and environmental factors contributing to variation in weighted gene co‐expression network module eigengenes
Authors: Gillespie Nathan A. , Bell Tyler R. , Hearn Gentry C. , Hess Jonathan L. , Tsuang Ming T. , Lyons Michael J. , Franz Carol E. , Kremen William S. , Glatt Stephen J.
Published: August 2024

Multivariate network‐based analytic methods such as weighted gene co‐expression network analysis are frequently applied to human and animal gene‐expression data to estimate the first principal component of a module, or module eigengene (ME). MEs are interpreted as multivariate summaries of correlated gene‐expression patterns and network connectivity across genes within a module. As such, they have the potential to elucidate the mechanisms by which molecular genomic variation contributes to individual differences in complex traits. Although increasingly used to test for associations between modules and complex traits, the genetic and environmental etiology of MEs has not been empirically established. It is unclear if, and to what degree, individual differences in blood‐derived MEs reflect random variation versus familial aggregation arising from heritable or shared environmental influences. We used biometrical genetic analyses to estimate the contribution of genetic and environmental influences on MEs derived from blood lymphocytes collected on a sample of N = 661 older male twins from the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging (VETSA) whose mean age at assessment was 67.7 years (SD = 2.6 years, range = 62–74 years). Of the 26 detected MEs, 14 (56%) had statistically significant additive genetic variation with an average heritability of 44% (SD = 0.08, range = 35%–64%). Despite the relatively small sample size, this demonstration of significant family aggregation including estimates of heritability in 14 of the 26 MEs suggests that blood‐based MEs are reliable and merit further exploration in terms of their associations with complex traits and diseases.
Tandem Solid‐Solution Phase Post‐Synthetic Modification of Porous Molecular Crystals for In‐Situ Generation of Fluorophores
Authors: Bi Han , Shi Yadong , Wang Tao , Deng Shengyong , Tang Ben Zhong , Wei Peifa
Published: August 2024

Conventional synthetic methods of organic luminescent molecules often involve labor‐intensive solution‐phase organic synthesis, which violate the principles of atom‐economic transformation. Post‐synthetic modification (PSM) offers a promising alternative, allowing direct transformation from one fluorophore to another. Although PSM is commonly implemented in extended frameworks, its application in porous molecular crystals remains challenging. Herein, we focus on utilizing porous molecular crystals, specifically tetraphenylethylene‐cored frameworks, as versatile platforms for tandem PSM reactions to customize organic fluorophores. The tailored skeleton design ensures both the formation of porous structures and the occurrence of tandem solid‐solution phase reactions while maintaining the solid state of reactants and products in each step. The inherent non‐covalent bonding nature of the frameworks facilitates processing and characterization, offering unparalleled advantages for porous networks. The accompanying solid‐state fluorescence transition from green to blue and then to green (or yellow) enables real‐time monitoring of tandem reactions and provides intuitive mechanistic insights. This phenomenon is exploited for the facile construction of a dynamic information encryption system using fluorescent quick response codes.
A Dual‐Focus Workflow for Simultaneously Engineering High Activity and Thermal Stability in Methyl Parathion Hydrolase
Authors: Li Yingnan , Fu Yuzhuang , Chen Xiling , Fan Shilong , Cao Zexing , Xu Fei
Published: August 2024

Industrial fermentation applications typically require enzymes that exhibit high stability and activity at high temperatures. However, efforts to simultaneously improve these properties are usually limited by a trade‐off between stability and activity. This report describes a computational strategy to enhance both activity and thermal stability of the mesophilic organophosphate‐degrading enzyme, methyl parathion hydrolase (MPH). To predict hotspot mutation sites, we assembled a library of features associated with the target properties for each residue and then prioritized candidate sites by hierarchical clustering. Subsequent in silico screening with multiple algorithms to simulate selective pressures yielded a subset of 23 candidate mutations. Iterative parallel screening of mutations that improved thermal stability and activity yielded, MPHase‐m5b, which exhibited 13.3 °C higher Tm and 4.2 times higher catalytic activity than wild‐type (WT) MPH over a wide temperature range. Systematic analysis of crystal structures, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) calculations revealed a wider entrance to the active site that increased substrate access with an extensive network of interactions outside the active site that reinforced αβ/βα sandwich architecture to improve thermal stability. This study thus provides an advanced, rational design framework to improve efficiency in engineering highly active, thermostable biocatalysts for industrial applications.
Gold(I)‐Catalyzed Desymmetrization of Homopropargylic Alcohols via Cycloisomerization: Enantioselective Synthesis of Cyclopentenes Featuring a Quaternary Chiral Center
Authors: Kohnke Philip , Zhang Liming
Published: August 2024

Cyclopentene rings possessing a chiral quaternary center are important structural motifs found in various natural products. In this work, we disclose expedient and efficient access to this class of synthetically valuable structures via highly enantioselective desymmetrization of prochiral propargylic alcohols. The efficient chirality induction in this asymmetric gold catalysis is achieved via two‐point bindings between a gold catalyst featuring a bifunctional phosphine ligand and the substrate homopropargylic alcohol moiety—an H‐bonding interaction between the substrate HO group and a ligand phosphine oxide moiety and the gold‐alkyne complexation. The propargylic alcohol substrates can be prepared readily via propargylation of enoate and ketone precursors. In addition to monocyclic cyclopentenes, spirocyclic and bicyclic ones are formed with additional neighboring chiral centers of flexible stereochemistry in addition to the quaternary center. This work represents rare gold‐catalyzed highly enantioselective cycloisomerization of 1,5‐enynes. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations support the chirality induction model and suggest that the rate acceleration enabled by the bifunctional ligand can be attributed to a facilitated protodeauration step at the end of the catalysis.
Design of Manganese‐Doped Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Effective Electrocatalytic System in Oxygen Reduction Reactions
Authors: Noor Shaista , Ahmad Fawad , Khan Muhammad Imran , Shanableh Abdallah , Khan Shakir , Manzoor Suryyia , Osman Sameh M. , Luque Rafael
Published: August 2024

Fuel cell technologies constitute a clean, reliable, highly efficient, and eco‐friendly source of alternative energy generation. However, they still require a reliable and robust catalytic system showing comparative electrochemical activity to precious metal Pt with less cost. In this work, Mn@ZnO NPs were synthesized using a hydrothermal‐assisted simple method. Several techniques including SEM, TGA, and XRD were used to confirm the material synthesis. Electrochemical properties were analyzed by using linear sweep voltammetry, chronoamperometry, and cyclic voltammetry. A higher ORR activity in terms of mass activity and current density was observed 133.9 mA/mg as compared to Pt/C (96 mA/mg) and Pd/C (67 mA/mg) under otherwise identical conditions. Mn@ZnO also exhibited excellent current density (1.913 mA cm−2), comparable to Pt/C (1.55 mA cm−2). Chronoamperometry shows stability for up to 800 s. Comparative studies were conducted in both acidic and basic mediums, with observed higher ORR activity in acidic media.
Data‐driven guidelines for phylogenomic analyses using SNP data
Authors: Suissa Jacob S. , De La Cerda Gisel Y. , Graber Leland C. , Jelley Chloe , Wickell David , Phillips Heather R. , Grinage Ayress D. , Moreau Corrie S. , Specht Chelsea D. , Doyle Jeff J. , Landis Jacob B.
Published: August 2024

Premise

There is a general lack of consensus on the best practices for filtering of single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and whether it is better to use SNPs or include flanking regions (full “locus”) in phylogenomic analyses and subsequent comparative methods.

Methods

Using genotyping‐by‐sequencing data from 22 Glycine species, we assessed the effects of SNP vs. locus usage and SNP retention stringency. We compared branch length, node support, and divergence time estimation across 16 datasets with varying amounts of missing data and total size.

Results

Our results revealed five aspects of phylogenomic data usage that may be generally applicable: (1) tree topology is largely congruent across analyses; (2) filtering strictly for SNP retention (e.g., 90–100%) reduces support and can alter some inferred relationships; (3) absolute branch lengths vary by two orders of magnitude between SNP and locus datasets; (4) data type and branch length variation have little effect on divergence time estimation; and (5) phylograms alter the estimation of ancestral states and rates of morphological evolution.

Discussion

Using SNP or locus datasets does not alter phylogenetic inference significantly, unless researchers want or need to use absolute branch lengths. We recommend against using excessive filtering thresholds for SNP retention to reduce the risk of producing inconsistent topologies and generating low support.
Three‐dimensional geometric morphometric analyses of humerus ecomorphology: New perspectives for paleohabitat reconstruction in carnivorans and ungulates
Authors: Serio Carmela , Brown Richard P. , Clauss Marcus , Meloro Carlo
Published: August 2024

Long bone ecomorphology has proven effective for paleohabitat reconstructions across a wide range of mammalian clades. Still, there is no comprehensive framework to allow interpretation of long bone morphological variation within and between different monophyletic groups. Here, we investigated the use of humerus morphometry to classify living members of the orders Carnivora and ungulates based on their preferred habitats. Using geometric morphometrics, we extracted three different kinds of humerus shape data describing interspecific variation with and without accounting for evolutionary allometry and phylogenetic signal. The traditional a priori categorization of species in open, mixed, and closed habitats was employed in combination with selected subsets of shape variables to identify the best‐predictive models for habitat adaptation. These were identified based on the statistical performance of phylogenetic and non‐phylogenetic discriminant analyses and then applied to predict habitats on a subsample of fossil species. Size‐free shape data combined with phylogenetic discriminant analyses showed the highest rate of accuracy in habitat classification for a combined sample of carnivorans and ungulates. Conversely, when the two groups were investigated separately, traditional shape data analyzed with phylogenetic discriminant function analyses provided models with the greatest predictive power. By combining carnivorans and ungulates within the same methodological framework we identified common adaptive features in closed habitat‐adapted species that show compressed epiphyses, while open habitat‐adapted species have expanded epiphyses. These morphologies evolved to allow significant degree of direction switches during locomotion in closed habitats compared to open habitat‐adapted species whose forelimb joints evolved to stabilize articulations for increasing speed.
Impact of different processing methods of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. on kidney‐yin deficiency: a study based on pharmacodynamics and metabolomics research
Authors: Sun Shu‐ding , Zhao Di , Liu Xue‐fang , Zhang Wei‐wei , Dong Hao‐ran , Tian Yan‐ge , Feng Su‐Xiang
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to explore the pharmacodynamics and mechanisms of different processing methods of Ligustrum lucidum Ait. (LLA) in addressing kidney‐yin deficiency (KYD). Forty‐eight Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into eight groups based on their weight. The KYD model was established by intragastric administration of levothyroxine sodium. Each group was administered the corresponding treatment for 15 consecutive days. The general condition of the rats during the treatment period was observed. In addition, the levels of cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP), cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), and the ratio of cAMP to cGMP in the serum of rats from different groups were measured. Serum samples were analyzed using the ultra‐performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)‐Orbitrap Fusion MS technique for metabolomics analysis. Compared with the model group, the general condition of the rats in the wine‐steamed L. lucidum group (WL) and salt‐steamed L. lucidum group (SSL) groups showed significant improvement. The serum levels of cAMP, cGMP, and the cAMP‐to‐cGMP ratio tended to return to normal. Metabolic analysis identified 38 relevant biomarkers and revealed 3 major metabolic pathways: phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan biosynthesis; phenylalanine metabolism; and sphingolipid metabolism. The different processing methods of LLA demonstrated therapeutic effects on KYD in rats, likely related to the restoration of disturbed metabolism by adjusting the levels of endogenous metabolites in the kidney. The SSL demonstrated significantly superior effects compared with the other four types of LLA processed products.
Identification of pyroptosis subtypes and prognosis model of hepatocellular carcinoma based on pyroptosis‐related genes
Authors: Xie Haisheng , Huang Guanlin , Mai Haoming , Chen Jiaxuan , Na Rong , Jiang De‐Ke
Published: August 2024

Background

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common malignant tumor with poor prognosis. Pyroptosis, a type of programmed cell death, regulates tumor cell development. However, the role of pyroptosis‐related genes (PRGs) in HCC and their association with prognosis are unclear.

Methods

We conducted bioinformatics analysis to identify PRGs in The Cancer Genome Atlas‐Liver Hepatocellular Carcinoma (TCGA‐LIHC) patients. Consensus clustering classified patients into different subtypes. We used LASSO regression to established a pyroptosis subtype‐related score (PSRS) related to prognosis. OncoPredict identified potential pharmaceuticals based on PSRS.

Results

We found 20 HCC‐related PRGs in 335 TCGA‐LIHC patients. Consensus clustering classified patients into two subtypes. Subtype I had better overall survival and higher response to anti‐PD1 treatment. The prognostic model involving 20 genes predicted poorer prognosis for high‐PSRS group. The model was validated in two external cohorts. OncoPredict identified 65 potential pharmaceuticals based on PSRS.

Conclusion

Our investigation revealed a correlation between pyroptosis and HCC. We established PSRS as independent risk factors for predicting prognosis. The study paves the way for using PRGs as prognostic biomarkers and exploring personalized therapy for HCC.
Data sharing in cancer research: A qualitative study exploring community members' preferences
Authors: Johnston Elizabeth A. , Bourdaniotis Xanthia E. , Ayre Susannah K. , Zajdlewicz Leah , Beesley Vanessa L. , Goodwin Belinda C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Advancements in cancer treatment and survivorship rely on participation in research and access to health records.

Methods

This study explored preferences for data access and sharing in 14 workshops with 42 community members, most of whom were a cancer survivor or carer. Various scenarios for data access and sharing were presented and discussed, with participants' preferences summarized using descriptive statistics. Reasons underlying these preferences were identified through a thematic analysis of workshop transcripts.

Results

Most participants indicated a willingness for researchers to use their self‐report data and current health records for a specific research project (86%). Many were also willing for their self‐report data and current (62%) or all future (44%) health records to be shared with other researchers for use in other studies if made aware of this. Willingness to consent to data access and sharing data in cancer research was influenced by: (i) the potential for data sharing to advance medical discoveries and benefit people impacted by cancer in the future, (ii) transparency around researchers' credibility and their intentions for data sharing, (iii) level of ownership and control over data sharing, and (iv) protocols for privacy and confidentiality in data sharing.

Conclusions

Based on these themes, we present practical strategies for optimizing data access and sharing in cancer research.
Measuring patient‐reported distress from breast magnetic resonance imaging: Development and validation of the MRI‐related distress scale (MRI‐DS)
Authors: Kang Danbee , Kim Sooyeon , Han Jiyoon , Kim Youngha , Cho Juhee , Lee Jeong Eon , Ko Eun Sook
Published: August 2024

Objective

Although breast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable screening tool, breast MRI testing burden was associated with cancer worry and quality of life. We aimed to develop and validate the MRI‐related distress scale (MRI‐DS) to assess comprehensive distress specifically related to breast MRI.

Methods

We enrolled women aged above 18 years, diagnosed breast cancer, had MRI examination at least one time, and who could speak and read Korean in phase I and enrolled women aged above 18 years, visited outpatient clinic of breast general surgery, had undergone MRI examination at least once, and could speak and read Korean in phase II. We excluded patients who had any physical or psychiatric conditions in both phases. We recruited from a tertiary university‐based hospital in South Korea between April and August 2023.

Results

All 18 items had acceptable levels of item correlation (≥0.30) in the explanatory factor analysis with a four‐factor solution. The fit indices for the four‐factor solution model were good. The discriminant validity of the MRI‐DS had a moderate correlation with general anxiety or quality of life. In the known‐group analysis, those who reported MRI as the most burden breast examination had higher total scores.

Conclusion

The validity of the MRI‐DS has been confirmed as a scale for measuring the specific distress caused by breast MRI. The MRI‐DS is recommended to health professional to communicate with patients with MRI.

Clinical Implications

It can be used to assess the distress associated with MRI screening in breast cancer patients. Physician could use MRI‐DS to discuss the reasons for distress caused by breast MRI screening and to address specific sources of discomfort associated with it.
Acute lower‐extremity arterial thrombosis with immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Nagatomo Takahiro , Nagata Takuya , Ohno Yuju , Numaguchi Kotaro
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

We describe an acute lower‐extremity arterial occlusion in a 30‐year‐old woman with immune thrombocytopenia and polycystic ovary syndrome. Thrombosis may be a complication of immune thrombocytopenia requiring careful management.
Contralateral transvenous left ventricular lead placement of an implantable device with pre‐sternal tunneling in an ipsilateral chronically obstructed subclavian vein
Authors: Antoun Ibrahim , Dardas Sotirios , Mubashwirul Islam , Taher Abu‐Tariq , Ahmed Nauman
Published: August 2024

Key Clinical Message

Multiple methods are used to tackle ipsilateral obstructed venous access in patients undergoing a device upgrade by implanting a new left ventricular lead. One feasible solution to tackle this is implantation of the upgrade lead contralaterally with pre‐sternal tunnelization to the opposite side under conscious sedation.
Nitrogen Doped Carbon Layer Coated Co2MnO4 Electrocatalyst for Efficient Acidic Water Oxidation
Authors: Wang Zhi , Wang Zhaokun , Li Wenxin , Wang Jiashuai , Shi Haofeng , Wang Chengdeng , Bai Zhiming , Gao Yan , Zhu Chuang , Yan Xiaoqin
Published: August 2024

Electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution process must be both active and stable in order to make hydrogen from water using renewable power. Nitrogen‐doped carbon layer coated cobalt manganate particles were synthesized on carbon cloth using calcination method. The catalysts exhibited small particle sizes and graphitized carbon layer that covered the cobalt manganate, facilitating electron flow. Moreover, the nitrogen‐doped carbon layer enhanced the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) rate by reducing the potential required for surface reconstruction and optimizing electron distribution on the cobalt manganate surface. This electrocatalyst demonstrated a current density of 100 mA/cm2 at 1.56 V vs. RHE. Thus, this electrocatalyst shows promise as a novel OER catalyst for water oxidation in acidic aqueous solutions.
Hydrogenation of Alkenes Catalyzed by Mn(I) Alkyl Complexes Bearing NHC Phosphine Ligands
Authors: Zobernig Daniel P. , Stöger Berthold , Veiros Luis F. , Kirchner Karl
Published: August 2024

An efficient additive free hydrogenation of alkenes with molecular hydrogen is described. The pre‐catalyst is a well‐defined bench stable Mn(I) alkyl complex bearing a NHC phosphine ligand. These reactions are environmentally benign and atom economic, implementing an inexpensive, earth abundant non‐precious metal catalyst. The catalytic process is initiated by migratory insertion of a CO ligand into the Mn‐alkyl bond to yield an acyl intermediate which undergoes rapid hydrogenolysis to form the active 16e Mn(I) hydride catalyst [Mn(PC‐iPr)(CO)2(H)]. A range of mono‐ and disubstituted alkenes were efficiently converted into alkanes in good to excellent yields. The hydrogenation requires a reaction temperature of 60 °C. In all cases, a catalyst loading of 1 mol % and a hydrogen pressure of 50 bar was applied. A mechanism based on DFT calculations is presented which is supported by experimental studies.
Cortisol Synchrony in Psychotherapy for Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Levi Eyal , Peysachov Galit , Admon Roee , Zilcha‐Mano Sigal
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Accumulating research emphasizes the role of interpersonal coordination in arousal levels, which may manifest as cortisol synchrony, in interpersonal interactions. While the role of cortisol has been investigated in psychotherapy, cortisol synchrony and its characteristics and effect on treatment progress remain a relatively unexplored area. This study aims to explore the existence of distinct patterns of cortisol coordination throughout psychotherapy and test the associations of different coordination patterns with patients' pre‐treatment characteristics and treatment progress measures.

Methods

Fifty patient–therapist dyads participated in 16 weeks of psychodynamic treatment for major depressive disorder. Salivary cortisol samples were collected before and after each session at four time points. Self‐report questionnaires and treatment session video‐coding were used to characterize and differentiate between patterns of cortisol coordination.

Results

Three patterns of cortisol coordination were identified: synchronized, unsynchronized and stable‐therapist. These patterns differed in patient characteristics and treatment progress measures in that patients exhibiting a synchronized pattern tended to be more anxious and dominant in their relationships and were more prone to withdrawal ruptures.

Conclusions

Results provide novel evidence regarding variability in patient–therapist cortisol patterns and its putative associations with treatment progress.
Concanavalin‐A‐Induced Acute Liver Injury in Mice
Authors: Nabekura Tsukasa , Matsuo Soichi , Shibuya Akira
Published: August 2024

Acute liver injury is a life‐threatening disease. Although immune responses are involved in the development and exacerbation of acute liver injury, the cellular and molecular mechanisms are not fully understood. Intravenous administration of the plant lectin concanavalin A (ConA) is widely used as a model of acute liver injury. ConA triggers T cell activation and cytokine production by crosslinking glycoproteins, including the T cell receptor, leading to the infiltration of myeloid cells into the liver and the subsequent amplification of inflammation in the liver. Thus, the pathogenesis of ConA‐induced acute liver injury is considered a model of immune‐mediated acute liver injury or autoimmune hepatitis in humans. However, the severity of the liver injury and the analyses of immune cells and non‐hematopoietic cells in the liver following ConA injection are significantly influenced by the experimental conditions. This article outlines protocols for ConA‐induced acute liver injury in mice and evaluation methods for liver injury, immune cells, and non‐hematopoietic cells in the liver. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Induction of acute liver injury by ConA injection

Basic Protocol 2: Evaluation of inflammatory cytokines in mouse plasma

Basic Protocol 3: Preparation of liver sections and histological analysis of liver injury

Basic Protocol 4: Preparation of liver immune cells

Basic Protocol 5: Preparation of hepatocytes, endothelial cells, and hepatic stellate cells

Basic Protocol 6: Flow cytometry of immune and non‐hematopoietic liver cells

Basic Protocol 7: Flow cytometric sorting of endothelial cells and hepatic stellate cells

Basic Protocol 8: Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction
From Wide‐Bandgap to Narrow‐Bandgap Perovskite: Applications from Single‐Junction to Tandem Optoelectronics
Authors: Kim Jihyun , Lee Hyeonseok , Lee Younghyun , Kim Jinhyun
Published: August 2024

As perovskite solar device is burgeoning photoelectronic device, numerous studies to optimize perovskite solar device have been demonstrated. Amongst various advantages from perovskite light absorbing layer, attractive property of tunable bandgap allowed perovskite to be adopted in many different fields. Easily tunable bandgap property of perovskite opened the wide application and to get the most out of its potential, many researchers contributed as well. By precursor composition engineering, narrow bandgap with bandgap of less than 1.4 eV and wide bandgap with bandgap of more than 1.7 eV were achieved. Optimization of both narrow and wide bandgap perovskite solar cell could pave the way to all‐perovskite tandem solar cell which is combination of top cell with wide bandgap and bottom cell with narrow bandgap. This review highlights numerous efforts to advance device performance of both narrow and wide bandgap perovskite solar cell and how they challenged the issues. And finally, efforts to operate and utilize all‐tandem perovskite device in real world will be discussed.
On the Role of Anions in Solid Catalysts with Ionic Liquid Layer (SCILL) for the Selective Hydrogenation of Highly Concentrated Acetylene Streams
Authors: Mauß Jonathan M. , Schüth Ferdi
Published: August 2024

Electric plasma assisted pyrolysis of methane represents a highly promising greener alternative to produce ethylene from biogas and renewable energies compared to conventional steam cracking of naphtha. The mediocre performance of typical Pd−Ag catalysts for the downstream purification of the substantially higher concentrated acetylene impurities (≥15 vol.‐%) in those ethylene streams via selective hydrogenation is yet limiting economic interest. Following the concept of solid catalysts with ionic liquid layer (SCILL), we have modified an intrinsically non‐selective palladium catalyst with imidazolium based ionic liquids varying among 10 different anions and investigated them in this reaction. The best performing [C4C1IM][MeSO4]‐SCILL reaches an outstanding average ethylene selectivity over 20 h on‐stream of 82 % at full acetylene conversion without any sign of deactivation, clearly outperforming conventional Pd−Ag catalysts. By varying parameters like ionic liquid (IL) loading, temperature, feed gas composition, cations, and by using XPS for surface analysis we could gain a very comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms that reduce the competing over‐hydrogenation and oligomerisation side‐reactions.
Assessing Psychological Remission in Adolescent Anorexia Nervosa: A Comparison of Patient and Parent Report
Authors: Huryk Kathryn M. , Drury Catherine R. , Hail Lisa , Murray Stuart B. , Sawyer Susan M. , Hughes Elizabeth K. , Le Grange Daniel , Loeb Katharine L.
Published: August 2024

Objective

The definition and assessment of remission in anorexia nervosa (AN) needs greater consensus. Particularly in adolescents, the use of patient‐reported composite indices (such as the Eating Disorder Examination [EDE] Global Score) as the sole measure of psychological remission has the potential to obscure patients' true clinical status, given developmental factors and the propensity towards symptom minimization in AN.

Method

End of treatment (EOT) data from a randomized controlled trial comparing two formats of manualized family‐based treatment for adolescents with AN (N = 106) were analyzed. Participants completed the EDE, and their parents completed a parent‐as‐informant version of the EDE (Parent Eating Disorder Examination; PEDE). Rates of remission were compared across indices (i.e., EDE Global Score vs. diagnostic item analysis) and informant (i.e., adolescent vs. parent), both independently and in combination with the achievement of a percent median body mass index (% mBMI) greater than or equal to 95%.

Results

For both adolescent and parent reports, there were higher rates of remission when defined by Global Score than when defined by EDE or PEDE diagnostic items. There were no significant differences in remission rates based on informant.

Discussion

In the assessment of remission in AN, the EDE Global Score may not detect some adolescents who continue to exhibit clinically significant psychological symptoms. This study supports a detailed, multidimensional approach to assessing remission in adolescent AN to optimize sensitivity to patients' diagnostic profile. Future research should explore whether parent–child concordance on measures of ED psychopathology varies over the course of treatment.
Ecological security assessment of Yunnan Province, China in the context of Production–Living–Ecological space division
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Qian , Wang Jinliang , Liu Yuexiong , Wang Wanbin , Li Sen
Published: August 2024

With the rapid development of population, society and economy, human activities have caused serious adverse impacts on the environment, ecosystems and landscape patterns over the long term. In order to address the series of impacts of human activities on the environment, territorial space and resource use, the study of Production–Living–Ecological Space (PLES) and ecological security have all become academic frontiers in the field of sustainable development. In this study, we applied multi‐source data and GIS technology to construct an ecological security evaluation model based on the results of PLES delineation and the Pressure‐State‐Response (PSR) framework, and carried out the three‐period PLES ecological security evaluation for 2000, 2010 and 2020 at the county and grid scales in Yunnan Province. The PLES pattern in Yunnan Province is dominated by ecological space, which accounts for 75%, followed by 23% of production space, with ecological space shrinking from 2000 to 2020. Ecological security in ecological space and living space shows an improving trend from 2000 to 2020. The ecological security of production space improved in 2010 compared to 2000 but then showed a decreasing trend in 2020. Ecological security in ecological space shows that north‐western and southern Yunnan is safer than central Yunnan, while ecological security in living space is safer in central Yunnan, and ecological security in production space is better in southern Yunnan than in northern Yunnan. Comparison with related research results shows that the ecological security evaluation results of PLES in Yunnan Province in this study are scientific and reasonable. The ecological security evaluation model of PLES constructed in this study solves the problem of complex and incomplete ecological security evaluation indexes in the past, and the results of the study are more refined and precise, which provides new ideas for the study of regional ecological security.