bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
When and why does motor preparation arise in recurrent neural network models of motor control?
Authors: Schimel Marine , Kao Ta-Chu , Hennequin Guillaume
Published: August 2023

During delayed ballistic reaches, motor areas consistently display movement-specific activity patterns prior to movement onset. It is unclear why these patterns arise: while they have been proposed to seed an initial neural state from which the movement unfolds, recent experiments have uncovered the presence and necessity of ongoing inputs during movement, which may lessen the need for careful initialization. Here, we modeled the motor cortex as an input-driven dynamical system, and we asked what the optimal way to control this system to perform fast delayed reaches is. We find that delay-period inputs consistently arise in an optimally controlled model of M1. By studying a variety of network architectures, we could dissect and predict the situations in which it is beneficial for a network to prepare. Finally, we show that optimal input-driven control of neural dynamics gives rise to multiple phases of preparation during reach sequences, providing a novel explanation for experimentally observed features of monkey M1 activity in double reaching.
Spatial-temporal order-disorder transition in angiogenic NOTCH signaling controls cell fate specification
Authors: Kang Tae-Yun , Bocci Federico , Nie Qing , Onuchic José Nelson , Levchenko Andre
Published: August 2023

Angiogenesis is a morphogenic process resulting in the formation of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones, usually in hypoxic micro-environments. The initial steps of angiogenesis depend on robust differentiation of oligopotent endothelial cells into the Tip and Stalk phenotypic cell fates, controlled by NOTCH-dependent cell-cell communication. The dynamics of spatial patterning of this cell fate specification are only partially understood. Here, by combining a controlled experimental angiogenesis model with mathematical and computational analyses, we find that the regular spatial Tip-Stalk cell patterning can undergo an order-disorder transition at a relatively high input level of a pro-angiogenic factor VEGF. The resulting differentiation is robust but temporally unstable for most cells, with only a subset of presumptive Tip cells leading sprout extensions. We further find that sprouts form in a manner maximizing their mutual distance, consistent with a Turing-like model that may depend on local enrichment and depletion of fibronectin. Together, our data suggest that NOTCH signaling mediates a robust way of cell differentiation enabling but not instructing subsequent steps in angiogenic morphogenesis, which may require additional cues and self-organization mechanisms. This analysis can assist in further understating of cell plasticity underlying angiogenesis and other complex morphogenic processes.We investigate the spatial and temporal patterns of Tip/Stalk specification and the ensuing angiogenic sprouting by using a novel controlled micro-engineered experimental model of angiogenesis and a set of mathematical models of the spatially resolved, cell population-level VEGF-NOTCH signaling. Our analysis provides a dynamic view of the initial step of angiogenesis, revealing fluctuations in its onset, and features suggesting transitions between order and disorder in cell organization. These findings suggest how a potentially very restrictive patterning mechanism can become sensitive to a variety of environmental cues. This sensitivity can be crucial for proper vascularization of a damaged organ, and may suggest new ways of analyzing angiogenesis in the context of cancer and other pathologies. This analysis also suggests a framework for understanding of other instances of NOTCH-mediated patterning processes.
Transmissão assimétrica de preços: análise para o produtor de soja brasileiro de 2011/2017
Authors: Presotto Elen , De Freitas Clailton Ataídes , De Oliveira Sibele Vasconcelos
Published: August 2023

A comercialização da soja é difundida pelo mundo e com isto espera-se que entre os mercados haja transmissão de preços. Na presença de falhas de mercado, como por exemplo, o poder de mercado, assimetria de informações e custos de ajustamentos, a Assimetria de Transmissão de Preços (ATP) pode revelar-se como um comportamento entre mercados, em que um agente se beneficia em função de um aumento de bem-estar próprio frente a outro nível de mercado. O artigo busca investigar o processo de transmissão de preços espacial entre o mercado internacional para o produtor de soja brasileiro, sobretudo, testando a hipótese de presença de ATP, com o enfoque voltado as oscilações de preços sofridas pelo produtor de soja nacional. A metodologia de dados em painel mostrou-se eficiente para diagnosticar a conjuntura estrutural do processo de transmissão de preços. Os resultados apontam para a presença de ATP no longo prazo, sendo possível diagnosticar a presença de simetria de impacto contemporâneo no curto prazo. Por fim, conhecer o processo de transmissão de preços entre mercados é de fundamental importância para o produtor de soja nacional, visto que, o mesmo pode se antever a prováveis movimentos de preços, diminuído o risco na comercialização da sua produção.
Nutrient Content, Uptake, Quality of Biofortified Pearl Millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] and Fertility Status of Soil as Influenced by Fertilization of Potassium and Zinc
Authors: Asodariya S. R. , Rajani A. V. , Vora T. V. , Chauhan K. J.
Published: August 2023

The objective of this study is to describe the nutrient content, uptake, quality of biofortified pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] and fertility status of soil as influenced by fertilization of potassium and zinc.  The experiment comprising of four levels of potassium viz., 0, 40, 60 and 80 kg K2O ha-1 and three levels of zinc viz., 0, 10 and 20 kg Zn ha-1 and the experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Block Design and replicated thrice. The results revealed that the nutrient content, uptake, quality and yields were significantly influenced by the various levels of potassium and zinc. The application of potassium 80 kg K2O ha-1 and zinc 20 kg Zn ha-1 significantly increased the nutrient content, uptake, quality and yield of pearl millet.
Gauss-Mamadu-Njoseh Quadrature Formula for Numerical Integral Interpolation
Authors: Mamadu E. J. , Ojarikre H. I.
Published: August 2023

The use of orthogonal polynomials has paved way for researchers to solve complex mathematical formulations expressed in integral and differential forms. In this article, the Gauss-Mamadu-Njoseh quadrature formula is derived for the numerical treatment of integral interpolation. Here, the Mamadu-Njoseh orthogonal polynomials are employed as basis functions to achieve interpolation points for the derived formula. The derived formula offers several advantages such that precision and stability. The method was tested on some selected definite integral equations with numerical evidences showing the effectiveness and accuracy of the derived formula.
Effect of Abattoir Waste on Surface Water Quality Parameters of Iwofe River, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Ndukwe M. K. , Igara C. E. , Nkama O. J. , Ibe C. O. , Okoro O. E. , Nnnachi E. O. , Atiaetuk I. E.
Published: August 2023

Indiscriminate discharge of abattoir wastewater has been a major cause of concern globally due to its negative effect on the environment. This study analyzed the effect of abattoir waste on surface water quality parameters the of Iwofe River, Port-Harcourt, and the River’s state using standard methods. The water samples were collected at three different points (upstream, midstream, and downstream) and the results were analyzed using Oneway ANOVA at p = 0.05. From the results; temperature, pH, salinity, conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, and turbidity were in the range of 28.50 – 29.70 oC, 7.19 – 7, 3.00 – 6.35 PSU, 5059 – 11208 µS/cm, 91.70 – 164.80 mV, and 59.60 – 78.10 NTU respectively. Although the temperature was slightly above WHO standards, pH, Electrical conductivity, and Turbidity were all within WHO acceptable limits. TDS, TSS, DO, BOD5, and COD were in the range of 2542 - 5604 mg/L, 2.90 – 7.75 mg/L, 5.90 – 12.90 mg/L, 0.42 – 3.08 mg/L, and 5.90 – 18.50 mg/L respectively. DO and TS were above WHO permissible limit while BOD5, COD, TSS, COD, and ORQ were within WHO permissible limit in all samples. Total alkalinity, hardness, Cl-, CO32-, and NO3- were 25 – 113 mg/L, 990.00 – 1256.00 mg/L, 3669.08 – 7887.63 mg/L, 12.50 to 66.00 mg/L, 0.85 – 1.08 mg/L. SO42-, PO42-, oil and grease, and total coliform were in the range of 133.56 – 283.17 mg/L, 90.00 – 100.00 mg/L, 0.10 – 0.15 mg/L, 1.34 × 104 to 2.98 × 105 cfu/mL. Total Alkalinity was within limit only in upstream, while hardness, Cl-, NO3, SO42-, and total coliform were all above WHO permissible limit in drinking water. Heavy/trace metals results ranged as follow; As (<0.001 – 0.009 mg/L), Pb (<0.001 – 0.002 mg/L), Zn (<0.001), Fe (0.019 – 0.285 mg/L), K (8.245 – 8.540 mg/L), Mn (<0.001 – 0.005 mg/L), Mg (3.345 – 4.076 mg/L), Ca (2.452 – 4.085 mg/L), Ni (0.002 – 0.010 mg/L), Cu (<0.001 – 0.006 mg/L), Cr (0.001 – 0.003 mg/L), Cd (0.006 – 0.013 mg/L). As, Pb, Zn, K, Mn, and Ca were not above WHO permissible limit, but were present in significant amount indicating that the river was gradually being polluted with metals. Most of the water quality parameters did not meet WHO permissible limits for drinking water. Also, the study indicates that the meat processing industry can potentially reduce water portability, thereby adversely affecting the range of its uses. Hence the activities of the abattoir should be monitored closely by relevant agencies in order to prevent full-blown environmental problems and health hazards in the near future.
Food Is Medicine Movement—Key Actions Inside and Outside the Government
Authors: Bleich Sara N. , Dupuis Roxanne , Seligman Hilary K.
Published: August 2023

This JAMA Forum discusses the key food is medicine (FIM) actions being taken by the federal government and individual state governments and key nongovernmental actions that are advancing FIM.
Rates of Induction of Labor at 39 Weeks and Cesarean Delivery Following Publication of the ARRIVE Trial
Authors: Wood Rachel , Freret Taylor S. , Clapp Mark , Little Sarah
Published: August 2023

This cross-sectional study analyzes the rates of induction and cesarean delivery before and after the publication of A Randomized Trial of Induction vs Expectant Management (ARRIVE).
A Geospatial Analysis of Disparities in Access to Oncofertility Services
Authors: Peipert Benjamin J. , Potapragada Nivedita R. , Lantos Paul M. , Harris Benjamin S. , Reinecke Joyce , Goldman Kara N.
Published: August 2023

Importance

Fertility preservation (FP), including oocyte and embryo cryopreservation prior to gonadotoxic therapy, is an urgent and essential component of comprehensive cancer care. Geographic proximity to a center offering FP is a critical component of ensuring equitable access for people with cancer desiring future fertility.

Objective

To characterize the distribution of centers offering FP services in the US, quantify the number of self-identified reproductive-age female individuals living outside of geographically accessible areas, and investigate the association between geographic access and state FP mandates.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional analysis calculated 2-hour travel time isochrone maps for each center based on latitude and longitude coordinates. Population-based geospatial analysis in the US was used in this study. Fertility clinics identified through the 2018 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Fertility Clinic Success Rates Report were defined as oncofertility centers by meeting 4 criteria: (1) offered oocyte and embryo cryopreservation, (2) performed at least 1 FP cycle in 2018, (3) served people without partners, and (4) had an accredited laboratory. County-level data were obtained from the 2020 US Census, with the primary at-risk population identified as reproductive-age female individuals aged 15 years to 44 years. The analysis was performed from 2021 to 2022.

Exposures

Location outside of 2-hour travel time isochrone of an oncofertility center.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Oncofertility centers were compared with centers not meeting criteria and were classified by US region, state FP mandate status, number of assisted reproductive technology cycles performed, and number of FP cycles performed. The number and percentage of at-risk patients, defined as those living outside of accessible service areas by state, were identified.

Results

Among 456 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention–reporting fertility clinics, 86 (18.9%) did not meet the criteria as an oncofertility center. A total of 3.63 million (5.70%) reproductive-age female individuals lack geographic access to an oncofertility center. States with FP mandates have the highest rates of eligible female patients with geographic access (98.54%), while states without active or pending legislation have the lowest rates (79.57%). The greatest disparities in geographic access to care are most concentrated in the Mountain West and West North Central regions.

Conclusions and Relevance

Patients face numerous barriers to comprehensive cancer care, including a lack of geographic access to centers capable of offering FP services. This cross-sectional study identified disparities in geographic access and potential opportunities for strategic expansion.
Multiple Small Floaters Associated With Silicone Oil Droplets Following Intravitreal Pegcetacoplan Injection
Authors: Bijon Jacques , Mundae Rusdeep , Fisher Yale , Freund K. Bailey
Published: August 2023

This case series analyzes the presence of floaters associated with silicone oil droplets after intravitreal pegcetacoplan injection.
Constructing Scalable Membrane with Tunable Wettability by Electrolysis‐Induced Interface pH for Oil–Water Separation
Authors: Gan Shaopeng , Li Hui , Zhu Xu , Liu Xilu , Wei Kangxing , Zhu Lei , Wei Baojun , Luo Xiaoming , Zhang Jianqiang , Xue Qingzhong
Published: August 2023

The tunable wettability by pH‐stimulus has great potential in liquid adhesion, transport, collection, and separation due to its rapid response and wide control range. However, achieving pH‐regulated wettability on the selected region of material without acid–base contamination presents a distinct challenge for the existing methods. Here, a scalable conductive network membrane is prepared with switchable wettability by regulating interfacial pH. The generation and diffusion of interfacial pH on the selected region of the membrane are regulated through the confinement electrolysis process, which is adapted to both spatial arrangements of the conductive network and the electrical potential. By regulating the interfacial pH (>13), the wettability of the selected region can change from superhydrophobicity (Water contact angle = 150°) to superhydrophilicity/underwater superoleophobicity (Water contact angle = 0°) without additional reagent in 30 s under 15 V. Based on the switchable wettability and precise controllability, the prepared membrane can efficiently realize on‐demand oil–water separation (>99%) and in situ extraction‐back extraction. The membrane with switchable wettability is programable and free of acid–base contamination, which may have broad practical application potential in intelligent fluid‐related systems.
Synergistic Engineering of Architecture and Composition in Bimetallic Selenide@Carbon Hybrid Nanotubes for Enhanced Lithium‐ and Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cao Zhongnan , Cui Jiewu , Yu Dongbo , Wang Yan , Liu Jiaqin , Zhang Jingcheng , Yan Jian , Zhang Yong , Sun Shuhui , Wu Yucheng
Published: August 2023

Developing sustainable and affordable anode materials that are capable of delivering high performance in both lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) and sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) remains a significant challenge. Bimetallic selenide@carbon hybrids are considered as one of the most promising anode materials in LIBs and SIBs due to their high electronic conductivity, high specific capacity, and fast reaction kinetics. Herein, a series of bimetallic selenide@carbon hybrid nanotubes are successfully prepared as anodes of LIBs or SIBs based on the dual regulation of component and micro‐nanostructure. The selenization strategy plays a key important role in determining the composition, microstructure, and electrochemical energy storage properties of anode materials. As a consequence, the ZnSe/CoSe2@NPC NTs(I)‐600 exhibit a reversible capacity of 1328.3 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and superior rate capability (269.1 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1) towards Li+ storage. Meanwhile, ZnSe/CoSe2@NPC NTs(II)‐700 achieve 354.1 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 and ultralong cycling stability (97.6% of capacity retention after 40 000 cycles at 10 A g−1) used as anode materials in SIBs. This study provides a feasible strategy to fabricate selenide‐based composites as anode materials for high‐performance LIBs and SIBs via architecture engineering and composition tailoring.
Liquid‐Templating Aerogels
Authors: Hashemi Seyyed Alireza , Ghaffarkhah Ahmadreza , Goodarzi Milad , Nazemi Amir , Banvillet Gabriel , Milani Abbas S. , Soroush Masoud , Rojas Orlando J. , Ramakrishna Seeram , Wuttke Stefan , Russell Thomas P. , Kamkar Milad , Arjmand Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Modern materials science has witnessed the era of advanced fabrication methods to engineer functionality from the nano‐ to macroscales. Versatile fabrication and additive manufacturing methods are developed, but the ability to design a material for a given application is still limited. Here, a novel strategy that enables target‐oriented manufacturing of ultra‐lightweight aerogels with on‐demand characteristics is introduced. The process relies on controllable liquid templating through interfacial complexation to generate tunable, stimuli‐responsive 3D‐structured (multiphase) filamentous liquid templates. The methodology involves nanoscale chemistry and microscale assembly of nanoparticles (NPs) at liquid–liquid interfaces to produce hierarchical macroscopic aerogels featuring multiscale porosity, ultralow density (3.05–3.41 mg cm−3), and high compressibility (90%) combined with elastic resilience and instant shape recovery. The challenges are overcome facing ultra‐lightweight aerogels, including poor mechanical integrity and the inability to form predefined 3D constructs with on‐demand functionality, for a multitude of applications. The controllable nature of the coined methodology enables tunable electromagnetic interference shielding with high specific shielding effectiveness (39 893 dB cm2 g−1), and one of the highest‐ever reported oil‐absorption capacities (487 times the initial weight of aerogel for chloroform), to be obtained. These properties originate from the engineerable nature of liquid templating, pushing the boundaries of lightweight materials to systematic function design and applications.
Catechin‐Functionalized Cationic Lipopolymer Based Multicomponent Nanomicelles for Lung‐Targeting Delivery
Authors: Jin Min , Liu Bangheng , Zhang Zhen , Mu Yulei , Ma Liang , Yao Hang , Wang Dong‐An
Published: August 2023

Catechins from green tea are one of the most effective natural compounds for cancer chemoprevention and have attracted extensive research. Cancer cell‐selective apoptosis‐inducing properties of catechins depend on efficient intracellular delivery. However, the low bioavailability limits the application of catechins. Herein, a nano‐scaled micellar composite composed of catechin‐functionalized cationic lipopolymer and serum albumin is constructed. Cationic liposomes tend to accumulate in the pulmonary microvasculature due to electrostatic effects and are able to deliver the micellar system intracellularly, thus improving the bioavailability of catechins. Albumin in the system acts as a biocompatible anti‐plasma absorbent, forming complexes with positively charged lipopolymer under electrostatic interactions, contributing to prolonged in vivo retention. The physicochemical properties of the nano‐micellar complexes are characterized, and the antitumor properties of catechin‐functionalized materials are confirmed by reactive oxygen species (ROS), caspase‐3, and cell apoptosis measurements. The role of each functional module, cationic polymeric liposome, and albumin is revealed by cell penetration, in vivo animal assays, etc. This multicomponent micellar nanocomposite has the potential to become an effective vehicle for the treatment of lung diseases such as pneumonia, lung tumors, sepsis‐induced lung injury, etc. This study also demonstrates that it is a great strategy to create a delivery system that is both tissue‐targeted and biologically active by combining cationic liposomes with the native bioactive compound catechins.
Emerging Amorphous to Crystalline Conversion Chemistry in Ca‐Doped VO2 Cathodes for High‐Capacity and Long‐Term Wearable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Guo Jiabin , He Bing , Gong Wenbin , Xu Shuhong , Xue Pan , Li Chunsheng , Sun Yan , Wang Chunlei , Wei Lei , Zhang Qichong , Li Qingwen
Published: August 2023

Amorphous transition metal oxides have attracted significant attention in energy storage devices owing to their potentially desirable electrochemical properties caused by abundant unsaturated dangling bonds. However, the amorphization further amplifies the shortcoming of the poor intrinsic electronic conductivity of the metal oxides, resulting in unsatisfying rate capability and power density. Herein, freestanding amorphous Ca‐doped V2O5 (a‐Ca‐V2O5) cathodes are successfully prepared via in situ electrochemical oxidation of Ca‐doped VO2 nanoarrays for wearable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries. The doping of Ca and construction of freestanding structure effectively uncover the potential of amorphous V2O5, which can make full use of the abundant active sites for high volumetric capacity and simultaneously achieve fast reaction kinetics for excellent rate performance. More importantly, the introduction of Ca can notably reduce the formation energy of VO2 according to theoretical calculation results and realizes amorphous to crystalline reversible conversion chemistry in the charge/discharge procedure, thereby facilitating the reversible capacity of the newly developed a‐Ca‐V2O5. This work provides an innovative design strategy to construct high‐rate capacity amorphous metal oxides as freestanding electrodes for low‐cost and high‐safe wearable energy‐storage technology.
Ultrahigh Permeability at High Frequencies via A Magnetic‐Heterogeneous Nanocrystallization Mechanism in an Iron‐Based Amorphous Alloy
Authors: Zhou Jing , Li Xuesong , Hou Xibei , Ke Haibo , Fan Xingdu , Luan Junhua , Peng Hailong , Zeng Qiaoshi , Lou Hongbo , Wang Jianguo , Liu Chain Tsuan , Shen Baolong , Sun Baoan , Wang Weihua , Bai Haiyang
Published: August 2023

The prevalence of wide‐bandgap (WBG) semiconductors allows modern electronic devices to operate at much higher frequencies. However, development of soft magnetic materials with high‐frequency properties matching the WBG‐based devices remains challenging. Here, a promising nanocrystalline–amorphous composite alloy with a normal composition Fe75.5Co0.5Mo0.5Cu1Nb1.5Si13B8 in atomic percent is reported, which is producible under industrial conditions, and which shows an exceptionally high permeability at high frequencies up to 36 000 at 100 kHz, an increase of 44% compared with commercial FeSiBCuNb nanocrystalline alloy (25 000 ± 2000 at 100 kHz), outperforming all existing nanocrystalline alloy systems and commercial soft magnetic materials. The alloy is obtained by a unique magnetic‐heterogeneous nanocrystallization mechanism in an iron‐based amorphous alloy, which is different from the traditional strategy of nanocrystallization by doping nonmagnetic elements (e.g., Cu and Nb). The induced magnetic inhomogeneity by adding Co atoms locally promotes the formation of highly ordered structures acting as the nuclei of nanocrystals, and Mo atoms agglomerate around the interfaces of the nanocrystals, inhibiting nanocrystal growth, resulting in an ultrafine nanocrystalline–amorphous dual‐phase structure in the alloy. The exceptional soft magnetic properties are shown to be closely related to the low magnetic anisotropy and the unique spin rotation mechanism under alternating magnetic fields.
Nanoparticle‐Based Photothermal Therapy for Breast Cancer Noninvasive Treatment
Authors: Xiong Yao , Rao Yan , Hu Jiawei , Luo Zixuan , Chen Chuang
Published: August 2023

Rapid advancements in materials science and nanotechnology, intertwined with oncology, have positioned photothermal therapy (PTT) as a promising noninvasive treatment strategy for cancer. The breast's superficial anatomical location and aesthetic significance render breast cancer a particularly pertinent candidate for the clinical application of PTT following melanoma. This review comprehensively explores the research conducted on the various types of nanoparticles employed in PTT for breast cancer and elaborates on their specific roles and mechanisms of action. The integration of PTT with existing clinical therapies for breast cancer is scrutinized, underscoring its potential for synergistic outcomes. Additionally, the mechanisms underlying PTT and consequential modifications to the tumor microenvironment after treatment are elaborated from a medical perspective. Future research directions are suggested, with an emphasis on the development of integrative platforms that combine multiple therapeutic approaches and the optimization of nanoparticle synthesis for enhanced treatment efficacy. The goal is to push the boundaries of PTT toward a comprehensive, clinically applicable treatment for breast cancer.
Advancements in Achieving High Reversibility of Zinc Anode for Alkaline Zinc‐Based Batteries
Authors: Xie Weili , Zhu Kaiyue , Yang Hanmiao , Yang Weishen
Published: August 2023

Rechargeable alkaline zinc‐based batteries (ZBBs) have attracted extensive research attention due to their advantages of low cost, high specific energy, and high safety. Although the investigation of cathodes for alkaline secondary ZBBs has reached a relatively advanced stage, the exploration of zinc anodes is still in its infancy. Zinc anodes in alkaline electrolytes encounter challenges such as dendrite formation, passivation, corrosion during periods of cell inactivity, and hydrogen evolution during cycling, thereby limiting their rechargeability and storability. Drawing upon the latest research on zinc anodes, six fundamental strategies that encompass a wide range of aspects are identified and categorized, from electrode modifications and electrolytes to charge protocols. Specifically, these strategies include 3D structures, coatings, alloying, additives, separators, and charge protocols. They serve as an insight summary of the current research progress on zinc anodes. Additionally, the complementary nature of these strategies allows for flexible combinations, enabling further enhancement of the overall performance of zinc anodes. Finally, several future directions for the advancement of practical alkaline Zn anode are proposed. This comprehensive review not only consolidates the existing knowledge but also paves the way for broader research opportunities in the pursuit of high‐performance alkaline zinc anodes.
Antioxidant Theranostic Copolymer‐Mediated Reduction in Oxidative Stress Following Traumatic Brain Injury Improves Outcome in a Mouse Model
Authors: Tarudji Aria W. , Gee Connor C. , Miller Hunter A. , Steffen Rylie , Curtis Evan T. , Priester Aaron M. , Convertine Anthony J. , Kievit Forrest M.
Published: August 2023

Following a traumatic brain injury (TBI), excess reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation products (LPOx) are generated and lead to secondary injury beyond the primary insult. A major limitation of current treatments is poor target engagement, which has prevented success in clinical trials. Thus, nanoparticle‐based treatments have received recent attention because of their ability to increase accumulation and retention in damaged brain. Theranostic neuroprotective copolymers (NPC3) containing thiol functional groups can neutralize ROS and LPOx. Immediate administration of NPC3 following injury in a controlled cortical impact (CCI) mouse model provides a therapeutic window in reducing ROS levels at 2.08–20.83 mg kg−1 in males and 5.52–27.62 mg kg−1 in females. This NPC3‐mediated reduction in oxidative stress improves spatial learning and memory in males, while females show minimal improvement. Notably, NPC3‐mediated reduction in oxidative stress prevents the bilateral spread of necrosis in male mice, which is not observed in female mice and likely accounts for the sex‐based spatial learning and memory differences. Overall, these findings suggest sex‐based differences to oxidative stress scavenger nanoparticle treatments, and a possible upper threshold of antioxidant activity that provides therapeutic benefit in injured brain since female mice benefit from NPC3 treatment to a lesser extent than male mice.
Neutrophil‐Mediated Tumor‐Targeting Delivery System of Oncolytic Bacteria Combined with ICB for Melanoma Lung Metastasis Therapy
Authors: Liu Lina , Xin Wenjie , Li Qiang , Huang Baolian , Yin Te , Hua Siqi , Yang Chen , Chen Chen , Han Chao , Hua Zichun
Published: August 2023

Oncolytic bacteria are the most promising tumor target vector. Questions also remain regarding finding a balance between the therapeutic efficacy and safety of oncolytic bacteria. The critical measure of how this balance is maintained is the improvement in tumor colonization. Attenuated Salmonella typhimurium (VNP20009) as the only Salmonella strain to be evaluated in a clinical trial is a potential tumor therapeutic bacterium. A delivery system with controlled release of VNP after being loaded into neutrophils, which significantly increases the tumor‐targeting of VNP and enhances its therapeutic efficacy in a melanoma lung metastasis model is constructed. To improve the synergistic therapeutic effect, a PD1 nanobody is applied to this system (NE(PD1nb)). NE(PD1nb) activate dendritic cells (DCs) differentiation and stimulate the M1‐like differentiation of macrophages, and induce CD4+ T‐cells maturity and cytotoxic CD8+ T‐cells activation through DCs tumor antigen presentation.
Large‐Scale N‐Type FET and Homogeneous CMOS Inverter Array Based on Few‐Layer MoTe2
Authors: Cheng Zhixuan , Jia Xionghui , Cheng Xing , Song Yiwen , Ran Yuqia , Li Minglai , Xu Wanjin , Li Yanping , Ye Yu , Dai Lun
Published: August 2023

2D MoTe2 is regarded as a favorable candidate for semiconductor nanoelectronics integration. Chemical‐vapor‐deposition‐grown MoTe2 usually presents p‐type characteristics. In order to realize basic electronic units like complementary metal‐oxide‐semiconductor (CMOS) inverter, controllable fabrication of p‐ and n‐type transistors at large scale is of vital importance. Here, large‐scale MoTe2 n‐channel field‐effect transistor (n‐FET) arrays are successfully fabricated with seamless coplanar metallic 1T′‐WTe2 contacts to reduce contact resistance. High‐k HfO2 serves as a gate dielectric and its atomic‐layer‐deposition (ALD) process causes an n‐doping effect on the 2H‐MoTe2 channel. The FETs perform typical n‐type characteristics with average electron density and on/off ratio of ≈1.7 × 1013 cm−2 and 2.1 × 104, respectively. Furthermore, large‐scale homogeneous CMOS inverter arrays are fabricated, showing clear logic swing with low power consumption (≈0.4 nW) and high device yield (≈92%). Notably, their voltage transfer characteristics exhibit small hysteresis, and they work well after being kept in air for 16 months, indicating high device stability. The statistical results show that both the n‐FETs and CMOS inverters have high uniformity and reliability in performance. Significantly, this fabrication method is free from transfer processes and compatible with traditional silicon technology. This work paves the way for the application of few‐layer MoTe2 in semiconductor nanoelectronics integration.
Understanding the Role of Triplet‐Triplet Annihilation in Non‐Fullerene Acceptor Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hart Lucy J. F. , Grüne Jeannine , Liu Wei , Lau Tsz‐ki , Luke Joel , Chin Yi‐Chun , Jiang Xinyu , Zhang Huotian , Sowood Daniel J. C. , Unson Darcy M. L. , Kim Ji‐Seon , Lu Xinhui , Zou Yingping , Gao Feng , Sperlich Andreas , Dyakonov Vladimir , Yuan Jun , Gillett Alexander J.
Published: August 2023

Non‐fullerene acceptors (NFAs) have enabled power conversion efficiencies exceeding 19% in organic solar cells (OSCs). However, the open‐circuit voltage of OSCs remains low relative to their optical gap due to excessive non‐radiative recombination, and this now limits performance. Here, an important aspect of OSC design is considered, namely management of the triplet exciton population formed after non‐geminate charge recombination. By comparing the blends PM6:Y11 and PM6:Y6, it is shown that the greater crystallinity of the NFA domains in PM6:Y11 leads to a higher rate of triplet‐triplet annihilation (TTA). This is attributed to the four times larger ground state dipole moment of Y11 versus Y6, which improves the long range NFA out‐of‐plane ordering. Since TTA converts a fraction of the non‐emissive triplet states into bright singlet states, it has the potential to reduce non‐radiative voltage losses. Through a kinetic analysis of the recombination processes under 1‐Sun illumination, a framework is provided for determining the conditions under which TTA may improve OSC performance. If these could be satisfied, TTA has the potential to reduce non‐radiative voltage losses by up to several tens of millivolts.
Highly Reversible Zinc Metal Anodes Enabled by Solvation Structure and Interface Chemistry Modulation
Authors: Wang Xiao , Feng Kaiqiang , Sang Bingyan , Li Guijin , Zhang Zhengchunyu , Zhou Guowei , Xi Baojuan , An Xuguang , Xiong Shenglin
Published: August 2023

Aqueous Zn−ion batteries (AZIBs) promise appealing advantages including safety, affordability, and high volumetric energy density. However, rampant parasitic reactions and dendrite growth result in inadequate Zn reversibility. Here, a biocompatible additive, L‐asparagine (Asp), in a low‐cost aqueous electrolyte, is introduced to address these concerns. Combining substantive verification tests and theoretical calculations, it is demonstrated that an Asp‐containing ZnSO4 electrolyte can create a robust nanostructured solid‐electrolyte interface (SEI) by simultaneously modulating the Zn2+ solvation structure and optimizing the metal‐molecule interface, which enables dense Zn deposition. The optimized electrolyte supports excellent Zn reversibility by achieving dendrite‐free Zn plating/stripping over 240 h at a high Zn utilization of 85.5% in the symmetrical cell and an average 99.6% Coulombic efficiency for over 1600 cycles in the asymmetrical cell. Adequate full‐cell performance is demonstrated with a poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) intercalated vanadium oxide (PEDOT‐V2O5) cathode, which delivers a high areal capacity of 4.62 mAh cm−2 and holds 84.4% capacity retention over 200 cycles under practical conditions with an ultrathin Zn anode (20 µm) and a low negative/positive capacity ratio (≈2.4). This electrolyte engineering strategy provides new insights into regulating the anode/electrolyte interfacial chemistries toward high‐performance AZIBs.
Sulfur–Carbon Electrode with PEO‐LiFSI‐PVDF Composite Coating for High‐Rate and Long‐Life Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Li Ling , Nam Jong Seok , Kim Min Soo , Wang Yifan , Jiang Shaohua , Hou Haoqing , Kim Il‐Doo
Published: August 2023

To address the problem of the serious capacity fading in lithium–sulfur batteries, a multi‐functional PEO(polyethylene oxide)/LiFSI (lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide)/PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) (PLP) gel polymer electrolyte is exploited by coating PLP on a carbon nanotubes (CNTs) based sulfur cathode (PLP‐S/CNTs) with a controlled thermal annealing process. The annealing process leads to the conformal infusion of PLP through the matrix of S/CNTs with retaining the amorphous phase of the PLP, which enhance the rate performance compared to the bare S/CNTs. The PLP coating drives the transformation of more elemental sulfur to Li2S2/Li2S without forming intermediary product by restraining soluble‐polysulfides formation. Furthermore, the PLP coating successfully inhibits the dissolution of Li2Sx (x > 4) in PEO and prevents the loss of active material in the cathode, which is confirmed by density functional theory calculations. Comprehensively, the PLP coating applied to the surface of the S/CNTs cathode exhibit significantly suppressed shuttle effect and greatly improve long‐term cycle stability of the lithium–sulfur battery. The synthesized PLP‐coated S/CNTs composite cathode demonstrates a high specific capacity of 573.6 mAh g−1 at a current density of 0.5 C after 1 000 cycles, even achieving 318.1 mAh g−1 at an extremely high C‐rate (6 C). which is unprecedented performance among the reported studies on coating technology.
A Hyb‐Seq phylogeny of Boechera and related genera using a combination of Angiosperms353 and Brassicaceae‐specific bait sets
Authors: Hay Nikolai M. , Windham Michael D. , Mandáková Terezie , Lysak Martin A. , Hendriks Kasper P. , Mummenhoff Klaus , Lens Frederic , Pryer Kathleen M. , Bailey C. Donovan
Published: August 2023

Premise

Although Boechera (Boechereae, Brassicaceae) has become a plant model system for both ecological genomics and evolutionary biology, all previous phylogenetic studies have had limited success in resolving species relationships within the genus. The recent effective application of sequence data from target enrichment approaches to resolve the evolutionary relationships of several other challenging plant groups prompted us to investigate their usefulness in Boechera and Boechereae.

Methods

To resolve the phylogeny of Boechera and closely related genera, we utilized the Hybpiper pipeline to analyze two combined bait sets: Angiosperms353, with broad applicability across flowering plants; and a Brassicaceae‐specific bait set designed for use in the mustard family. Relationships for 101 samples representing 81 currently recognized species were inferred from a total of 1114 low‐copy nuclear genes using both supermatrix and species coalescence methods.

Results

Our analyses resulted in a well‐resolved and highly supported phylogeny of the tribe Boechereae. Boechereae is divided into two major clades, one comprising all western North American species of Boechera, the other encompassing the eight other genera of the tribe. Our understanding of relationships within Boechera is enhanced by the recognition of three core clades that are further subdivided into robust regional species complexes.

Conclusions

This study presents the first broadly sampled, well‐resolved phylogeny for most known sexual diploid Boechera. This effort provides the foundation for a new phylogenetically informed taxonomy of Boechera that is crucial for its continued use as a model system.
Impact of extraction conditions and seed variety on the characteristics of pennycress (Thlaspi arvense) protein: a structure and function approach
Authors: Mitacek Rachel , Marks M. David , Kerr Nicole , Gallaher Daniel , Ismail Baraem P.
Published: August 2023

As the consumer demand for plant proteins continues to grow, the food industry is seeking novel and sustainable protein sources to incorporate in various food products. Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense), a sustainable cover crop, produces oilseeds high in protein, warranting investigation. Accordingly, protein extraction from pennycress was evaluated under various extraction conditions, using alkaline extraction and salt solubilization coupled with ultrafiltration. Given the superior color and functionality of the salt extracted pennycress protein isolate (PcPI), its production was scaled‐up about two hundred folds in a pilot plant. Furthermore, a new pennycress accession bred to have zero erucic acid (0EA) was evaluated to determine the impact of seed variety on protein characteristics. Structural and functional characterization was performed on PcPI and compared to native (nSPI) and commercial (cSPI) soy protein isolates. Salt extracted PcPI had comparable gel strength to cSPI, three times higher solubility under acidic conditions, and ~1.5 times better emulsification capacity. PcPI extracted from 0EA was mildly different in structure and functionality from that extracted from wildtype pennycress, with the slight variation attributed to genetic variance. Finally, the protein digestibility‐corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) of the salt extracted PcPI, calculated in vivo (0.72) and in vitro (0.87), was superior or comparable to other plant protein sources. This research provided, for the first time, a comprehensive evaluation of different protein extraction protocols to produce a functional PcPI that can compete with soy protein for various food applications, such as acidic beverages, meat and dairy products, and emulsified systems.
Thermal conductivity aging and mechanical properties of polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams produced with different contents of HFO
Authors: Torres‐Regalado Patricia , Santiago‐Calvo Mercedes , Gimeno Josep , Rodríguez‐Pérez Miguel Angel
Published: August 2023

Polyisocyanurate (PIR) foam is a thermal insulating material widely used in many industries such as construction, refrigeration, piping/tubing among others. In this research the production, characterization and modeling of the thermal conductivity of PIR foams synthesized with a hydrofluorolefin (HFO 1233zd (E)) as physical foaming agent have been studied. The results have shown that increasing the amount of HFO reduces the density, but the cellular structure is not modified. The relative mechanical properties are the same for the concentrations of HFO considered. In addition, the aging of thermal conductivity as a function of time has been studied in detail. The experimental results have been deeply analyzed using a theoretical model to predict the thermal conductivity The results show that the thermal conductivity and the rate of aging at early stages are reduced for the higher concentrations of HFO. This result has been related to the lower temperature reached during the foaming reaction for higher contents of the physical blowing agent.
Trade‐offs between the instantaneous growth rate and long‐term fitness: Consequences for microbial physiology and predictive computational models
Authors: Bruggeman Frank J. , Teusink Bas , Steuer Ralf
Published: August 2023

Microbial systems biology has made enormous advances in relating microbial physiology to the underlying biochemistry and molecular biology. By meticulously studying model microorganisms, in particular Escherichia coli and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, increasingly comprehensive computational models predict metabolic fluxes, protein expression, and growth. The modeling rationale is that cells are constrained by a limited pool of resources that they allocate optimally to maximize fitness. As a consequence, the expression of particular proteins is at the expense of others, causing trade‐offs between cellular objectives such as instantaneous growth, stress tolerance, and capacity to adapt to new environments. While current computational models are remarkably predictive for E. coli and S. cerevisiae when grown in laboratory environments, this may not hold for other growth conditions and other microorganisms. In this contribution, we therefore discuss the relationship between the instantaneous growth rate, limited resources, and long‐term fitness. We discuss uses and limitations of current computational models, in particular for rapidly changing and adverse environments, and propose to classify microbial growth strategies based on Grimes's CSR framework.
Microwave‐assisted synthesis of praseodymium (Pr)‐doped ZnS QDs such as nanoparticles for optoelectronic applications
Authors: E Muhammed Jubeer , Manthrammel M. Aslam , Subha P. A. , Shkir Mohd , Alfaify S. A.
Published: August 2023

Praseodymium (Pr)‐doped ZnS nanoparticles were synthesized using a low‐cost microwave‐assisted technique and investigations on their structure, morphology, optical properties, Raman resonance, dielectric properties, and luminescence were conducted. Broad X‐ray diffraction peaks suggested the formation of low‐dimensional Pr‐doped ZnS nanoparticles with a cubic structure that was validated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM)/high‐resolution TEM analysis. The energy gaps were identified using diffuse reflectance spectroscopy and it was found that the values varied between 3.54eV and 3.61eV for different samples. Vibrational experiments on Pr‐doped ZnS nanoparticles revealed significant Raman modes at ~270 and ~350 cm−1 that were associated with optical phonon modes that are shifted to lower wavenumbers, indicating phonon confinement in the synthesized products. The photoluminescence (PL) spectra of all samples demonstrated that the pure and Pr‐doped ZnS nanoparticles were three‐level laser active materials. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy and mapping study confirmed the homogeneous presence of Pr in ZnS. TEM studies showed that the particles were of very small size and in the cubic phase. The samples had high dielectric constant values between 13 and 24 and low loss values, according to the dielectric analysis. With an increase in frequency and a change in the Pr content of ZnS, an intense peak could be seen in the PL spectra at a wavelength of 360 nm, and some other peaks observed corresponded to the transition of Pr3+. The produced nanoparticles were appropriate for optoelectronic applications due to their short dimension, high energy gap, high dielectric constant, and low loss values.
Lipofection with Lipofectamine™ 2000 in a heparin‐free growth medium results in high transfection efficiency in chicken primordial germ cells
Authors: Watanabe Tenkai , Ochi Yuta , Kajihara Ryota , Ichikawa Kennosuke , Ezaki Ryo , Matsuzaki Mei , Horiuchi Hiroyuki
Published: August 2023

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) that can differentiate into gametes are used to produce genome‐edited chickens. However, the transfection efficiency into PGCs is low in chickens; therefore, the yield efficiency of PGCs modified via genome editing is problematic. In this study, we improved transfection efficiency and achieved highly efficient genome editing in chicken PGCs. For transfection, we used lipofection, which is convenient for gene transfer. Chicken PGC cultures require adding heparin to support growth; however, heparin significantly reduces lipofection efficiency (p < 0.01). Heparin‐induced lipofection efficiency was restored by adding protamine. Based on these results, we optimized gene transfer into chicken PGCs. Lipofectamine 2000 and our PGC medium were the most efficient transfection reagent and medium, respectively. Finally, based on established conditions, we compared the gene knock‐out efficiencies of ovomucoid, a major egg allergen, and gene knock‐in efficiencies at the ACTB locus. These results indicate that optimized lipofection is useful for CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated knock‐out and knock‐in. Our findings may contribute to the generation of genome‐edited chickens and stimulate research in various applications involving them.