bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting Rules on Loan Losses and Security Gains Contribute to Earnings Management for the Banking Industry in Sri Lanka
Authors: De Chickera G. K. Suren W. , Qi Liu
Published: April 2019

One of the most serious concerns presently facing the accounting profession is the growing complexity, extension, and significance of issues adjoining fair value measurements. Many researchers and practitioners criticized the fair value accounting and blame for it causing economic failure. This paper studies licensed commercial banks and the ﬁnancial institution listed under the Colombo stock exchange to examine the association between fair value accounting and earnings management. In this research, we are examining the provisions for loan loss and discretionary security gains and losses by introducing the fair value assets and liabilities. We used the statistical methodology followed by Beatty et al. (2002) to test the banks reported fair value assets and liabilities associated with provisions for loan loss. We test several robustness tests and sensitivity analysis for our research design. We use both the current year and one-year ahead data test the provision for loan loss, discretionary security gains, and losses after controlling bank-specific features. We found evidence that; banks reported fair value assets and liabilities are positively associate with provision for loan loss. We found the evidence that the level 2 fair value assets and liabilities are a predominant determination for the association between provisions for loan loss. Our evidence is consistent with past research and persuades us that banks use fair value measurements to manage the earnings.
Antenna Parameters
Authors: Balanis Constantine A.
Published: November 2024

This article summarizes the parameters of antennas, and it has been written as an introduction for the technologist and as a review for the antenna expert. It defines the most important parameters of some antennas in words and of others, using equations employed by antenna engineers for the analysis and design of antennas, especially for RF and microwave bands.
Backscatter
Authors: Ufimtsev Pyotr Ya.
Published: November 2024

The backscatter, or backscattering, is the scattering of waves back toward the source of the incident wave. This process substantially depends on material properties of the scattering object, its shape, size, and spatial orientation relative to the incident wave, as well as on the frequency and polarization of the incident wave. One distinguishes three frequency regions with different physical properties of scattered waves. They are quasistatic, resonance, and quasioptical regions.
Helmholtz Equations
Authors: Kowalczyk Piotr , Mrozowski Michal
Published: November 2024

Scalar and vector Helmholtz equations and their applications in electromagnetics are discussed. Relevance of the Helmholtz equation to wave motion is explained. Derivation involving Maxwell's equations and auxiliary scalar and vector potentials is presented. Basic analytical solution techniques for homogeneous and nonhomogeneous cases are introduced and illustrated in simple problems such as guided waves and radiation from a finite‐length dipole. Numerical methods and the operator approach to investigation of the Helmholtz equation are briefly outlined.
Small Antennas
Authors: Fujimoto Kyohei
Published: November 2024

Small antennas are categorized into four types.

Electrically Small Antenna (ESA), Physically Small Antenna (PSA), Physically Constrained Small Antenna (PCSA), and Functionally Small Antenna (FSA). Although one uses four categories, the classification is not necessarily distinct, so that one class of antenna can be classified into more than one class; for instance, when a patch antenna has the edge (radiating aperture) of one‐fifth wavelength in its peripheral, the antenna is referred to as both ESA and PCSA.

Two major subjects exist in small antennas: (1) investigation of characteristics and performance of small antennas, and (2) exploitation of methods to attain small antenna, particularly ESA.
Radiation Effects
Authors: Schwank James R. , Sexton Fred W. , Dodd Paul E. , Shaneyfelt Marty R.
Published: November 2024

The effects of the space radiation environment on semiconductor device response are reviewed. Semiconductor devices in space can be exposed to energetic particles that can cause device degradation and system failure. The space environment consists primarily of protons, electrons, and heavy ions. Ionizing radiation (electrons and protons) can induce significant charge buildup in oxides, causing large threshold voltage shifts, and decreases in carrier mobility and bipolar transistor gain. This can result in large increases in the static power current of an IC, degradation in timing, and potential loss of functionality. In the space environment, heavy ions and protons can cause single‐event effects. There are two general classes of single‐event effects: soft errors and hard errors. Soft errors cause no permanent damage and may be correctable. Single‐event upsets are one type of soft error. If the error rate caused by soft errors is too high, performance degradation and even system failure can result. Hard errors cause permanent damage to devices. As integrated circuit technologies advance, they are becoming more prone to soft errors caused by energetic ions. In fact, soft errors caused by energetic particles present in the terrestrial environment and emitted from metal impurities are rapidly making single‐event upset a major reliability concern for ground‐based commercial ICs.
Preamplifiers
Authors: Duque-Carrillo J. F. , Torelli Guido
Published: November 2024

Despite the improvements carried out in recent years, all sensors have a common characteristic: a weak signal delivered and a limiting noise level. Therefore, the front end of the sensor‐associated electronic system must be an amplifier, usually called apreamplifier.

Some basic concepts useful in analyzing preamplifiers from the noise standpoint, namely, equivalent input noise, noise factor and noise figure, and noise matching, are introduced in this section.
Mixer Circuits
Authors: Kimura Katsuji
Published: November 2024

Mixers are used to shift the received signal to an intermediate frequency, where it can be amplified with good selectivity, high gain, and low noise, and finally demodulated in a receiver. Mixers have important applications in ordinary low‐frequency and microwave receivers, where they are used to shift signals to frequencies where they can be amplified and demodulated most efficiently. Mixers can also be used as phase detectors and in demodulators, and must perform these functions while adding minimal noise and distortion.
Multiplexers
Authors: Mansour Raafat R.
Published: November 2024

Multiplexers are used in communication system applications where there is a need to divide a wideband signal into a number of narrowband signals (channels). They are also employed to provide the opposite function, by combining several narrowband channels into a single wideband channel. Multiplexers are therefore known aschannelizersorcombiners. They find widespread use in many applications such as satellite payloads, wireless systems, and electronic warfare (EW) systems.
Mobile Satellite Communications
Authors: Lodge John
Published: November 2024

Mobile satellite (MSAT) AU:1 systems provide communications services to mobile and portable terminals using a radiotransmission path between the terminal and the satellite.

A wide variety of services and applications are supported by mobile satellite systems, with many more proposed.

Third‐generation systems are expected to be capable of transmission at rates up to several hundred kilobits per second and will be capable of delivering moderate‐quality video and high‐quality audio services.

A wide variety of mobile satellite terminals is commercially available.
Passivation
Authors: Pearton S. J.
Published: November 2024

Passivation layers are deposited over the entire top surface of Si or compound semiconductor wafers to form an insulating protective coating for the semiconductor. This procedure guards against environmental contamination that might lead to increased surface leakage currents, and also against mechanical damage during assembly and packaging. Some of the desirable properties of passivation‐layer materials include good scratch protection of the underlying interconnect metallurgy, impermeability to moisture and alkali (Na+, K+) ions, low stress (<5×108 dyn/cm2, preferably compressive), conformal step coverage, and etchability with excellent uniformity and adhesion. While thicker passivation layers would normally be desirable because of the improved mechanical protection they afford, there is generally an upper limit to the thickness in order to avoid cracking. The primary inorganic dielectric passivation films are SiO2and SiNx, while polyimides and epoxy resins are used for low‐cost polymer encapsulation. The thermal stability requirements are obviously lower for final passivation coatings than for interlevel dielectrics.

Patterns are formed in the passivation‐layer material by either wet (for phosphosilicate glasses) or dry (for SiNxor polymers) etching to enable electrical contact to the completed circuit. The area of these contact pads is sufficiently large (100×100 μm2) that wet etching is acceptable.
Monte Carlo Analysis
Authors: Lugli Paolo
Published: November 2024

As the name suggests, the Monte Carlo (MC) method is based on the selection of random numbers [1–4]. In its present form, the method is attributed to Fermi, Von Neumann, and Ulam, who developed it for the solution of problems related to neutron transport.

Although it will not be possible to exhaust the complexity of the MC methods in such a short review, the present contribution is intended to give a critical overview of the MC algorithms used for device and process modeling and for circuit yield analysis.
Silicon‐Germanium
Authors: Schumacher Hermann
Published: November 2024

The introduction of Silicon‐Germanium alloys into the base of bipolar transistors provided a quantum leap in the performance of microwave and millimeter‐wave integrated circuits based on mature Silicon processing. Silicon/Silicon‐Germanium heterostructures can be used in a variety of ways. In bipolar transistors, they may increase the allowable base doping concentration, or speed up charge carrier transport through the base layer. In field‐effect transistors, they may provide carrier confinement, reducing Coulomb scattering and thus increasing the low‐field mobility of electrons and holes. Or, they may be used to introduce an axial strain into Silicon channel layers, again with advantages in charge carrier mobility. The article reviews the principle of SiGe‐based electronic devices, their state‐of‐the‐art, and some microwave circuit applications.
Electromagnetic Compatibility
Authors: Paul Clayton R.
Published: November 2024

This article includes general discussion of the subject of designing electronic systems to render them electromagnetically compatible with their environment, to ensure that, they (1) will not cause interference with other electronic systems, (2) be interfered with by other electronic systems, and (3) interfere with themselves. The discussions cover digital signal spectra, nonideal behavior of components, conducted emissions, radiated emissions, crosstalk, and shielding. The subject of governmental regulations is also discussed.
Gallium Arsenide Technology and Applications
Authors: Manes G. F.
Published: November 2024

Starting from the early 1970s, the increasing request for solid‐state devices operating at microwave frequencies lead to investigations of semiconductor structures as alternatives to silicon.

Among various solutions, gallium arsenide generated interest and eventually emerged as the favorite material for high‐frequency applications due to the high carrier mobility compared with silicon devices.

The advantages in speed and high‐frequency performance of GaAs are slightly offset by the manufacturing process limitations of GaAs, in terms of both complexity and reproducibility as opposed to Si.

GaAs devices find application at RF and microwave frequencies for both linear and high‐speed logic applications.

GaAs microwave devices find extensive use in consumer applications as well in sophisticated warfare electronics. GaAs devices are used in the form of discrete components or microwave monolithic integrated circuits (MMICs). GaAs also exhibits relevant optical properties and finds extensive applications in optoelectronics, including LEDs, laser diodes, and solar cells.
Surface Mount Technology
Authors: Trybula Walter J. , Trybula Michael
Published: November 2024

Surface mount assembly (SMA) is the description of a technology that incorporates the electrical and mechanical of components to printed wiring boards (PWBs) or a similar type of circuit substrate. The term
surface mount
comes from the methodology of attaching the components.

Many categories of packages can be employed in surface mount assembly. They can be identified into two categories: leadless devices and leaded chip carriers.
Rough Surface Scattering: Numerical Simulations and Applications in Microwave Remote Sensing
Authors: Li Qin , Xia Ming Yao , Tsang Leung , Zhou Lin , Chan Chi Hou , Li Zhong Xin
Published: November 2024

In this article we present rough‐surface bistatic scattering and emission based on NMM3D (numerical Maxwell model using 3D simulations). Results are computed using the method of sparse matrix canonical grid with RWG (Rao–Wilton–Glisson) basis functions. Results are illustrated for active and passive microwave remote sensing of soil moisture and ocean. We also describe recent numerical simulation techniques of the single integral equation and the multilevel UV method in rough surface scattering.
Radar Altimetry
Authors: Raney R. Keith
Published: November 2024

The article reviews ocean‐observing radar altimeters hosted on spacecraft in low‐Earth orbit. These instruments measure sea surface topography on global and mesoscales to a height accuracy of a few centimeters. Flight missions since 1973 to the present are summarized. The conventional pulse‐limited full‐deramp modulation technique is illustrated by the design of the TOPEX altimeter. The advanced delay–Doppler technique is explained, whose benefits extend to ice‐sheet altimetry (Cryosat), and to improved measurement of oceanic gravity anomalies, hence bathymetry. The article concludes with comments on future directions.
Attenuation Measurement
Authors: Hilty Kurt
Published: November 2024

When a signal is sent along any transmission path, many different mechanisms degrade it. Because of finite conductivity, every cable shows a resistive loss. Scattering loss is dominated by Rayleigh scattering, and below 1600nm absorption losses are
caused mainly by OH absorption. Wireless transmission paths, such as microwave links, satellite links, and broadcast or mobile communication, are affected by scattering caused by rain, clouds, and multiple reflections. Many different methods and a variety of systems for measuring attenuation have been developed.
Standing Wave Meters and Network Analyzers
Authors: Schiek Burkhard , Gronefeld Andreas
Published: November 2024

This article will present a number of measurement systems for the determination of reflection coefficients (one‐port network analyzer or reflectometer) and for full characterization of two‐port networks. Although the concept ofS‐parameters is easily extended toN‐ports, measurement of networks with more than two ports will not be covered, because most commercially available hardware is built for two‐port measurements and can be used to characterizeN‐ports by simply terminating the unused N‐2 ports inZ0.
Coaxial Line Discontinuities
Authors: Garg R.
Published: November 2024

Various types of discontinuities with their equivalent circuits are discussed. These include gaps in the center conductor, open‐ended configuration, open reflection standard, impedance step, and T (“tee”) junction. Design information for equivalent‐circuit parameters is provided. The effect of frequency on discontinuity parameters is also included.
Dielectric Resonator Filters
Authors: Bila S. , Baillargeat D. , Verdeyme S. , Guillon P.
Published: November 2024

Dielectric resonators (DRs) are widely used in microwave circuitry since these components offer a higher integration than do classical empty waveguides and, at particular frequency bands, equivalent electrical performances. This article deals with the design of bandpass microwave filters employing DRs. The electrical characteristic parameters of these circuits are introduced in the first section. In the second section, different topologies of microwave filters using cylindrical DRs are described. The third section is a review of particular applications of DRs in microwave filtering: power handling, out‐of‐band rejection, and high frequency. Finally, the last section proposes an electromagnetic optimisation methodology for the design of DR filters.
Load‐Pull Techniques
Authors: Teppati Valeria , Ferrero Andrea , Pisani Umberto , Colantonio Paolo , Giannini Franco , Limiti Ernesto
Published: November 2024

This contribution is an overview on classic and advanced load‐pull measurement techniques. The definition of the main measured quantities along with the detailed description of several modern test sets will be given. Furthermore, several experimental results are reported to highlight the applicability and utility of these techniques for modern device development.
Piezoelectric Transducer Controlled Circuits
Authors: Yun Tae-Yeoul
Published: November 2024

This article introduces a new method for tuning microwave circuits of phase shifters, filters, resonators, and oscillators, controlled by a piezoelectric transducer (PET ), with computational and experimental results. An optimized PET ‐controlled phase shifter is demonstrated to operate up to 40 GHz with a maximum total loss of 4 dB and phase shift of 480°. PET controlled tunable bandpass filter, ring resonator, and one‐dimensional (1D) photonic bandgap (PBG ) resonator show a very wide tuning bandwidth of 17.5–28.5% near 10 GHz with little performance degradation. A new PET ‐controlled or voltage‐controlled dielectric resonator oscillator (VCDRO ) is demonstrated with a tuning bandwidth of 3.7% at the center frequency of 11.78 GHz. The tuning bandwidth is slightly less than that of a mechanical tuning using a micrometer‐head‐controlled tunable DRO with a tuning bandwidth of 4.7%. The new tuning method should have many applications in monolithic and hybrid microwave integrated circuits.
Slotline Components
Authors: Fan Lu , Chang Kai
Published: November 2024

This article first discusses the fundamental slotline elements such as various T junctions, resonators, and transitions. After these general topics, several kinds of passive slotline integrated circuits are presented through a discussion of filters, hybrid couplers, and nonreciprocal devices. Finally, the applications of slotline to solid‐state integrated circuits, that is, mixers, oscillators, modulators, and frequency doublers, are described. These applications are supported by real circuit demonstrations and actual circuit performances. The implementation of solid‐state devices for the tuning and switching of resonances is also discussed.
Spatial and Quasi‐Optical Power Combining
Authors: Navarro Julio A.
Published: November 2024

Spatial and Quasi‐Optical Power Combining by Dr. Julio A. Navarro reviews the early history of radar and some critical microwave sources and components which have made the concept viable and successful since its conception. The contribution provides background to the field by referencing power combining review papers and spatial power combining textbooks. This work also references significant contributors to active antennas and power combining in the past decade. The article updates major improvements in the field since the mid‐1990s when the first textbook on the subject was written. The contribution lists key qualities and figures‐of‐merit to gauge the success of on‐going research and adequately compare its results with others in the field. These qualities are described along with methods for calculation to assist newcomers working in the field. Additional areas for research are briefly described to highlight some of the more recent off‐shoots of this field.
Transceivers
Authors: Dominique Francis
Published: November 2024

In this article, we will define a radio transceiver and discuss its history, architecture, and the implementation of its most important system blocks. Lastly, we will identify some key obstacles and challenges that face radio designers today.
Direction of Arrival Estimation and Adaptive Processing Using a Conformal Phased Array
Authors: Sarkar Tapan K. , Salazar-Palma Magdalena
Published: November 2024

The objective of this article is to present a general methodology for carrying out direction of arrival (DoA) estimation and adaptive processing using conformal arrays. The antenna elements in a conformal array can be unequally spaced, and they need not be situated over a planar surface. In addition, the antenna elements can have a directive gain. The goal is to present a signal processing methodology coupled with electromagnetic physics that can deal with nonuniformly spaced directive antenna elements over a conformal surface.
Circuit Stability
Authors: Svoboda James A.
Published: November 2024

Stability is a property of well‐behaved circuits and systems. Typically, stability is discussed in terms of feedback systems. Well‐established techniques, such as Nyquist plots, Bode diagrams, and root locus plots, are available for studying the stability of feedback systems. Electric circuits can be represented as feedback systems. Nyquist plots, Bode diagrams, and root locus plots can then be used to study the stability of electric circuits.
Noise Generators
Authors: Upadhyaya Shambhu J.
Published: November 2024

Noise has been studied extensively in the literature because noise reduction is one of the major goals. A more compelling reason for the study of noise is its potential application in real life. These applications encompass biomedical engineering, electronic circuits, communication systems, cryptography, computers, electro‐acoustics, geosciences, instrumentation, and reliability engineering. This article addresses the various noise generation techniques and implementing them in analog and digital circuit technology and concludes with a discussion of typical applications.
Multi‐Level High Entropy‐Dissipative Structure Enables Efficient Self‐Decoupling of Triple Signals
Authors: Li Shenghong , Wu Binkai , Wang Shaobing , Jiang Mengting , Pan Chundi , Dong Yanjuan , Xu Weiqiang , Yu Houyong , Tam Kam Chiu
Published: November 2024

The theory of high entropy‐dissipative structure is confined to high‐entropy alloys and their oxide materials under harsh conditions, but it is very difficult to obtain high entropy‐dissipative structure for smart sensors based on polymers and metal oxides under mild conditions. Moreover, multiple signal coupling effect heavily hinder the sensor applications, and current multimodal integrated devices can solve two signal‐decoupling, but need very complicated process way. In this work, new synthesis concept is the first time to fabricate high entropy‐dissipative conductive layer of smart sensors with triple‐signal response and self‐decoupling ability within poly‐pyrrole/zinc oxide (PPy/ZnO) system. The sensor (SPZ20) amplifies pressure (17.54%/kPa) and gas (0.37%/ppm), reduces humidity (0.41%/% RH) and temperature (0.12%/°C) signals, simultaneously achieving the triple self‐decoupling effect of pressure and gas in the complex temperature‐humidity field because of the enlarged pressure‐contact area, enhanced gas‐responsive sites, altered vapor path and its own heat insulation function. Additionally, it inherits the strong robustness (500 rubbing, washing, and heating or freezing cycles) and endurance (10 000 photo‐purification cycles) of traditional high‐entropy materials for information transmission and smart alarms in emergencies or harsh environments. This work gives a new insight into the multiple‐signal response and smart flexible electronic design from natural fibers.
T#2‐Li0.69CoO2: A Durable, High‐Capacity, High‐Rate Cathode Material for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zuo Yuxuan , Liu Jiahui , Wang Hangchao , Zou Ying , Luo Tie , Zhang Kun , Yang Yali , Gao Chuan , Li Biao , Sun Qiang , Xia Dingguo
Published: November 2024

Efficient utilization of resources is crucial for the sustainable development of the lithium‐ion battery industry. Although the traditional Rm space group LiCoO2 can provide a current advanced discharge capacity of 215–220 mAh g⁻¹ at an upper cut‐off voltage of 4.6 V (relative to Li⁺/Li), it still falls far short of its theoretical specific capacity of 273 mAh g⁻¹, and exhibits structural instability and labile oxygen loss, leading to rapid capacity degradation. T#2‐Li0.69CoO2 is synthesized with Cmca space group and Li─O tetrahedral coordination. Owing to the unique Li─O tetrahedral coordination structure and the dominant cobalt oxidation under high voltage, T#2‐Li0.69CoO2 delivers an ultra‐high specific capacity of 258 mAh g−1, close to the theoretical capacity, in liquid electrolyte batteries and 253 mAh g−1 in solid state batteries, overcoming the structural instability of layered oxide cathodes during charging and discharging processes. This study broadens the possibilities of creating high energy‐density cathodes for next‐generation Li‐ion batteries.
Zero‐Strain Metal‐Insulator Transition by the Local Fluctuation of Cation Dimerization
Authors: Park Yunkyu , Sim Hyeji , Lee Sungwon , Park Won‐Woo , Hwang Jaejin , Hur Pyeongkang , Lee Yujeong , Lee Dong Kyu , Song Kyung , Lee Jaekwang , Kwon Oh‐Hoon , Choi Si‐Young , Son Junwoo
Published: November 2024

The coupled electronic and structural transitions in metal‐insulator transition (MIT) hinder ultrafast switching and ultimate endurance. Decoupling these transitions and achieving a zero‐strain electronic MIT can overcome the fundamental limitations of MIT in solid materials. Here, this study demonstrates that iso‐valent Ti dopants in supercooled VO2 epitaxial films cause MIT with minimal hysteresis without changing unit‐cell volume and crystal symmetry. The Ti dopants in the VO2 lattice locally alter the configuration of V‐V pairs, where the long‐range ordering in V‐V pairs is disrupted, and the nano‐domains of V‐V dimers are formed. Strikingly, these local V‐V dimers persist even above the electronic transition temperature (TMI), facilitating the zero‐strain electronic MIT with nanoscale structural heterogeneity. The geometrically compatible interface between insulating and metallic phases drastically enhances switching speed and endurance during electrically and optically driven zero‐strain MIT. This discovery offers a fresh perspective on the scientific understanding of MIT and the improved functionality in terms of device speed and reliability by decoupling electronic and structural transitions.
Base‐Promoted [4+3] Cycloadditions of N‐Thioacylimines with α‐Chlorohydroxamates: Construction of 1,3,5‐Thiadiazepin‐6(7H)‐One Derivatives
Authors: Liu Yu‐Di , Shao Yu‐Heng , He Zhao‐Lin , Wang Gang
Published: November 2024

A metal‐free base‐promoted [4+3] cycloaddition reaction of N‐thioacyl imines in situ generated from α‐amido sulfones with α‐chlorohydroxamates is described. The reaction allows the straightforward synthesis of 1,3,5‐thiadiazepin‐6(7H)‐one derivatives in 44~90% yields. Moreover, a gram‐scale reaction and a product transformation were conducted, which further increased the diversity of products.
From gem‐Dichlorocyclobutenones to Cyclobutenols: Unveiling a Ruthenium‐Catalyzed Allylic Reduction‐Asymmetric Transfer Hydrogenation Cascade
Authors: Charron Olivier , Kosiuha Marharyta , Ratovelomanana‐Vidal Virginie , Phansavath Phannarath , Gontard Geoffrey , Meyer Christophe
Published: November 2024

Cyclobutenones constitute an appealing class of substrates in catalytic asymmetric transformations leading to diversely substituted enantioenriched four‐membered carbocycles, which are eliciting a growing interest in medicinal chemistry. Whilst several synthetically useful enantioselective conjugate addition reactions have been reported, the catalytic enantioselective reduction of the carbonyl group of simple cyclobutenones remains an elusive transformation. Herein, we disclose the discovery of a novel allylic reduction‐asymmetric transfer hydrogenation cascade, catalyzed by a Noyori‐Ikariya ruthenium complex, from readily available gem‐dichlorocyclobutenones, leading to 2‐chlorocyclobutenols with high optical purities, which can be engaged in postfunctionalization reactions enabling access to substituted four‐membered rings.
METTL16 is Required for Meiotic Sex Chromosome Inactivation and DSB Formation and Recombination during Male Meiosis
Authors: Yin Lisha , Jiang Nan , Xiong Wenjing , Yang Shiyu , Zhang Jin , Xiong Mengneng , Liu Kuan , Zhang Yuting , Xiong Xinxin , Gui Yiqian , Gao Huihui , Li Tao , Li Yi , Wang Xiaoli , Zhang Youzhi , Wang Fengli , Yuan Shuiqiao
Published: November 2024

Meiosis in males is a critical process that ensures complete spermatogenesis and genetic diversity. However, the key regulators involved in this process and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unclear. Here, we report an essential role of the m6A methyltransferase METTL16 in meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI), double‐strand break (DSB) formation, homologous recombination and SYCP1 deposition during male meiosis. METTL16 depletion results in a significantly upregulated transcriptome on sex chromosomes in pachytene spermatocytes and leads to reduced DSB formation and recombination, and increased SYCP1 depositioin during the first wave of spermatogenesis. Mechanistically, in pachytene spermatocytes, METTL16 interacts with MDC1/SCML2 to coordinate DNA damage response (DDR) and XY body epigenetic modifications that establish and maintain MSCI, and in early meiotic prophase I, METTL16 regulates DSB formation and recombination by regulating protein levels of meiosis‐related genes. Furthermore, multi‐omics analyses reveal that METTL16 interacts with translational factors and controls m6A levels in the RNAs of meiosis‐related genes (e.g., Ubr2) to regulate the expression of critical meiotic regulators. Collectively, this study identified METTL16 as a key regulator of male meiosis and demonstrated that it modulates meiosis by interacting with MSCI‐related factors and regulating m6A levels and translational efficiency (TE) of meiosis‐related genes.
Synthetic Retinoid Sulfarotene Selectively Inhibits Tumor‐Repopulating Cells of Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma via Disrupting Cytoskeleton by P‐Selectin/PSGL1 N‐Glycosylation Blockage
Authors: Du Xiaojing , Qi Zhuoran , Chen Sinuo , Wu Jinlan , Xu Ye , Hu Sunkuan , Yu Zhijie , Hou Jiayun , Fang Yuan , Xia Jinglin , Cao Xin
Published: November 2024

Intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is a highly lethal malignancy that currently lacks effective clinical treatments. Eliminating stem cell‐like cancer cells is an extremely promising but challenging strategy for treating ICC. A recently developed synthetic retinoid, sulfarotene, abrogates proliferation, and induces apoptosis of tumor‐repopulating cells (TRCs) that exhibit stem cell‐like properties, yet its effect and underlying mechanisms remain elusive in ICC. It is found that although 5‐fluorouracil, cisplatin, pemigatinib, and gemcitabine all inhibit ICC‐TRCs, sulfarotene demonstrates superior efficacy. Sulfarotene induces retinoic acid receptor alpha (RARɑ) translocation from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, suppressing P‐selectin expression at the transcriptional level. Moreover, it directly interacts with fucosyltransferase 8 (FUT8), inhibiting the core fucosylation of P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL1). These actions collectively inhibit ICC‐TRCs via destroying PSGL1‐regulated cytoskeleton. The findings provide a strategy of inhibiting P‐selectin/PSGL1 interaction and altering PSGL1 glycosylation pattern to compromise the cytoskeletal integrity and eliminate ICC‐TRCs.
Cupric Doping Hollow Prussian Blue Nanoplatform for Enhanced Cholesterol Depletion: a Promising Strategy for Breast Cancer Therapy and Metastasis Inhibition
Authors: Yan Shuangqian , Xue Panpan , Sun Ying , Bai Tingjie , Shao Sijie , Zeng Xuemei
Published: November 2024

The dysregulated cholesterol metabolism in breast cancer cells drives malignancy, invasion, and metastasis, emphasizing the significance of reducing abnormal cholesterol accumulation for effective cancer treatment and metastasis inhibition. Despite its promise, cholesterol oxidase (ChOx) encounters challenge due to limited catalytic efficiency and susceptibility to harsh conditions. To overcome these hurdles, biocompatible nanoplatforms (Cu‐HPB/C) tailored for efficient cholesterol depletion are introduced. Cu2+‐doped hollow Prussian blue (Cu‐HPB) acts as a carrier, shelter, and enhancer for ChOx, bolstering tumor‐targeting ability, stability, and enzymatic activity. Tumor‐responsive released Cu2+ notably augments ChOx activity, facilitating cholesterol depletion and disrupting lipid rafts, thereby impeding cell invasion and migration. Additionally, H2O2 generated from the oxidase reaction enhances Cu‐HPB's chemo dynamic therapeutic efficacy. Transcriptomic analysis validates Cu‐HPB/C's impact on cholesterol homeostasis and reveals cell death mechanisms including oxidative stress, ferroptosis, cuproptosis, and apoptosis. Demonstrating therapeutic efficacy in both 4T1 tumor subcutaneous and metastasis mouse models, the study presents a direct and effective strategy for tumor therapy and metastasis inhibition through enhanced cholesterol depletion.
Symmetric Dopant‐Free Si Solar Cells Enabled by TiOx Nanolayers: An In‐Depth Study on Bipolar Carrier Selectivity
Authors: Matsui Takuya , Fukaya Shohei , McNab Shona , McQueen James , Gotoh Kazuhiro , Sai Hitoshi , Usami Noritaka , Bonilla Ruy Sebastian
Published: November 2024

High‐efficiency solar cells require two contact structures, engineered for efficient extraction of photogenerated holes and electrons at the respective electrodes. Herein, crystalline Si solar cell featuring hole‐ and electron‐selective passivating contacts composed entirely of a single material, amorphous titanium oxide (TiOx), without extrinsic doping is demonstrated. The hole/electron selectivity of the TiOx layers (≈5 nm) is tailored by the oxidation process and the choice of Ti precursor in the atomic layer deposition (ALD). Ex situ and in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements elucidate that the hole‐selective TiOx induces significant band bending in the Si (Φ≈0.7 eV), generating a p‐type inversion layer in the n‐Si absorber. The electron‐selective TiOx induces a smaller band bending of Φ<0.35 eV. This clarifies that the bipolar carrier selectivity of TiOx is associated with the different amount of negative fixed charges generated during the ALD process, depending on the choice of Ti precursor and oxidant. In addition, the growth of a hydrogen‐containing SiOy nanolayer (≈1‐1.5 nm) at the Si/TiOx interface during postdeposition oxidation is crucial for providing chemical passivation in both types of TiOx. These findings pave the way for a deeper understanding of the charge generation mechanism and chemistry at the Si/metal oxide interfaces.
Highly Open Phosphorized PtNi Nanohexapod/N‐doped Graphene Aerogel for High‐Performance Alkaline Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Yang Jing , Wang Jianlan , Hübner René , Tao Xingyu , Ren Yansong , Zheng Zhikun , Liu Wei
Published: November 2024

Developing cost‐effective, high‐efficiency, and stable electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline electrolytes is of critical importance for realizing renewable hydrogen technologies. However, the sluggish HER kinetics and unsatisfied stability remain critical challenges for their practical applications. Herein, a hierarchically porous phosphorized Pt‐Ni nanohexapod/N‐doped graphene aerogel (P‐PtNiNH/NGA) constructed by an oxidation‐phosphorization‐controlled reconfiguration strategy is presented. It enables fast water dissociation kinetics for an abundant supply of hydrogen ions, strong electron interaction for optimal intermediate adsorption, and an excellent anchoring effect of the NGA to avoid the aggregation and Ostwald ripening of the PtNiNHs, thus exhibiting superior activity and exceptional stability toward alkaline HER. The P‐Pt1Ni2NH/NGA exhibits an ultralow overpotential of 15 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm−2, a low Tafel slope of 37 mV dec−1, and long‐term stability, which are superior to commercial Pt/C. Moreover, the P‐Pt1Ni2NH/NGA shows a high mass activity of 13.4 mA µg−1 and a large TOF value of 13.5 s−1 at an overpotential of 100 mV, which are 8.8 times and 9.0 times higher than commercial Pt/C (under the same Pt loading of ≈9.1 µg cm−2). This work is of high inspiration for catalyst design to obtain ideal alkaline HER performance.
Methotrexate Versus Mycophenolate Mofetil Prophylaxis in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Chronic Myeloid Malignancies: A Retrospective Analysis on Behalf of the Chronic Malignancies Working Party of the EBMT
Authors: Luft Thomas , Gras Luuk , Koster Linda , Kröger Nicolaus , Schröder Thomas , Platzbecker Uwe , Sockel Katja , de Latour Régis Peffault , Stelljes Matthias , Sengeloev Henrik , Eder Matthias , Blau Igor Wolfgang , Dreger Peter , Yakoub‐Agha Ibrahim , Maertens Johan , Salmenniemi Urpu , Bethge Wolfgang , Mielke Stephan , Kobbe Guido , Pouli Anastasia , de Wreede Liesbeth C. , Raj Kavita , Drozd‐Sokolowska Joanna , McLornan Donal P. , Robin Marie
Published: November 2024

Prophylaxis strategies for Graft versus host disease (GVHD) in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) frequently encompass a combination of a calcineurin inhibitor (CNI) with either methotrexate (MTX) or mycophenolate mofetil (MMF). The aim of this retrospective, EBMT registry‐based study was to determine outcome differences for chronic myeloid malignancies and secondary acute myeloid leukemia (sAML) between MTX‐ and MMF‐based prophylaxis regimens while taking potential heterogeneity between subgroups into consideration. Eligible were patients transplanted between 2007 and 2017 who received either MTX‐ or MMF prophylaxis in combination with a CNI. Endpoints after allo‐HCT were overall survival, relapse‐free survival (RFS), relapse incidence, non‐relapse mortality (NRM), and Grades 2–4 acute GVHD (aGvHD). Overall, 13 699 patients from 321 centers were included. Median follow‐up was 42.8 months (IQR 19.8–74.5 months). MTX prophylaxis was associated with reduced overall mortality (HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.81–0.95, p = 0.001) and NRM (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.78–0.96, p = 0.006) compared with MMF in multivariable Cox regression models in the whole cohort without significant interaction between prophylaxis and subgroups. In contrast, there was no significant association of prophylaxis with risk of relapse (HR 1.03 MTX vs. MMF, 95% CI 0.94–1.14, p = 0.53) or RFS (HR 0.95, 95% CI 0.88–1.01, p = 0.12). There was a reduced risk of Grades 2–4 acute GVHD and reduced mortality after acute GVHD with MTX prophylaxis but no association with outcome in a landmark analysis in patients without aGvHD at 3 months after allo‐HCT. In conclusion, MTX‐complemented CNI prophylaxis was associated with favorable survival, and with favorable survival after aGVHD compared with MMF.
Implementing a Quality Improvement Initiative to Screen for Dementia in a Down Syndrome Specialty Clinic
Authors: Santoro Stephanie L. , Harisinghani Ayesha , Bregman Caroline , Cottrell Clorinda , Pulsifer Margaret B. , Shaffer Mikayla , Torres Amy , Skotko Brian G. , Oreskovic Nicolas M.
Published: November 2024

Using quality improvement methods, we aimed to implement a protocol to assess for dementia among adults with Down syndrome (DS). To track implementation, interval retrospective chart review of patients with DS with visits to the Massachusetts General Hospital DS Program (MGH DSP) was conducted quarterly. The impact of a newly implemented protocol created and informed by clinical experts in the MGH DSP including laboratory tests, imaging, referrals, and screening tools for dementia and mental health concerns, was analyzed using statistical process control charts. From December 2021 to December 2022, the MGH DSP developed and implemented a new clinical protocol to screen for dementia in 44 adults with DS, ages 40 and above, at a total of 48 visits. We found high rates of completion of two screening surveys (85% and 81%, respectively) and an 84% adherence to our overall protocol elements by clinical staff. Among those with dementia‐like symptoms, medical evaluation was collected and summarized. We show that it is possible to successfully implement a new protocol, including the use of a dementia screener, in line with published evidence‐based care guidelines for adults with DS. We present our protocol as one successful approach focused on pre‐visit screening for symptoms of dementia and mental health concerns and evaluating for co‐occurring medical conditions in adults with DS.
Light‐Induced Tetrafluoroethylation/Cyclization of N‐Methacryloyl‐2‐phenylbenzoimidazoles with 1,2‐Dibromotetrafluoroethane
Authors: Deng Zhoubin , Lv Yuyu , Wang Ke‐Hu , Huang Danfeng , Wang Junjiao , Hu Yulai
Published: November 2024

Various N‐methacryloyl‐2‐arylbenzoimidazoles react with 1,2‐dibromotetrafluoroethane in the presence of photocatalyst 4CzIPN irradiated by 10 W blue LED to provide 5‐(3‐bromo‐2,2,3,3‐tetrafluoropropyl)‐5‐methylbenzo[4,5]‐imidazo[2,1‐a]isoquinolin‐6(5H)‐ones in good yield. The reaction proceeds through a sequential tetrafluoroethyl radical addition/cyclization pathway. The wide substrate scope, good functional group tolerance, and ease of scale‐up of this protocol are expected to promote its potential applications in pharmacy.
Full Conjugation in a Polymer with Non‐conjugated Piperazine‐2,5‐dione Units via Energy‐minimized Lactam‐to‐Lactim Tautomerization Enables Water‐gated Transistor Fluoride Sensors
Authors: Zhao Naixin , Jeon Sung Jae , Yuan Yi , Venkateswarlu Samala , Stella Andrew , Papazotos Jimmy , Li Yuning
Published: November 2024

Piperazine‐2,5‐dione (glycine anhydride, GA) has recently emerged as a valuable precursor for high‐performance π‐conjugated polymer semiconductors in organic electronics. We utilized GA to design a novel bisindolin‐dihydropiperazine (IDHP)‐based conjugated polymer, PIDHPTT, for aqueous chemical sensing. In the isatin‐flanked monomer, GA exists as a non‐conjugated lactam (DHP‐NH) but converts to a conjugated lactim (DHP‐OH) form within the polymer. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations show that this conversion is driven by energy minimization via extended π‐conjugation. Neighboring DHP units in the lactim form facilitate this process through π‐bridges, demonstrating a vinylogous effect, which has previously only been observed in small molecules. This is the first study to report such a long‐range vinylogous effect in a polymer due to the collective synergy of numerous functional groups. The OH groups in the lactim DHP interact more strongly with fluoride ions than other halides. PIDHPTT exhibits significant changes in optical absorption, electrochemical impedance, and charge transport in response to fluoride ions, which differ from responses to other halides. A water‐gated organic field‐effect transistor based on PIDHPTT shows excellent sensitivity and selectivity for fluoride ions, demonstrating the potential of this polymer design for chemical sensing applications.
Stimuli‐Responsive Amino Acid Based Polymeric Nanomicelles With Antimicrobial and Anticancer Activities
Authors: Bharatiya Debasrita , Parhi Biswajit , Singh Khumukcham Saratchandra , Manavathi Bramanandam , Paik Pradip
Published: November 2024

Herein this work, a biocompatible polymer synthesis approach has been established for the designing of α‐methoxy‐ω‐amino poly(ethylene glycol)‐L‐glutamate‐L‐aspartate [MeO‐PEG‐NH‐b‐(L‐GluA)5‐b‐(L‐AspA)18]/[PEG‐b‐PBLG‐b‐PBLA] triblock copolymeric nanomicelles by using α‐methoxy‐ω‐amino PEG as a macro initiator via modified ring‐opening polymerization. The colloidal stability, remarkable protein folding properties, and distinct morphology of the prepared polymer are confirmed. The microscopic analysis confirms the formation of nanomicelles with an average diameter of 13 nm to 22 nm for [PEG‐b‐PBLG‐b‐PBLA] and [PEG‐b‐PBLG], respectively. The copolymers show an effective influence on self‐assembly behavior with respect to change in temperature and pH. The cellular inhibition properties of the block copolymeric micelles is confirmed through in vitro study against the MDA‐MB‐231 cancer cells. The calculated IC50 values for [PEG‐b‐PBLG] and [PEG‐b‐PBLG‐b‐PBLA] copolymers are found to be 560.340 ± 34.107 μg/mL and 750.468 ± 47.312 μg/mL, respectively. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for antibacterial activity is calculated to be 0.8 μg /mL against gram (−)
Escherichia coli
(
E. coli
) of triblock copolymer. Therefore, the attachment of a new amino acid block in the [PEG‐b‐PBLG‐b‐PBLA] copolymer enhances the thermal stability, protein folding properties, colloidal stability, antibacterial activities, and biocompatibility, on account of which the synthesized triblock copolymer nanomicelle could be beneficial for antimicrobial and anticancer activities.
Identification of potentially causative drugs associated with hypotension: A scoping review
Authors: Sari Nurunnisa , Jaehde Ulrich , Wermund Anna Maria
Published: November 2024

Drug‐induced hypotension can be harmful and may lead to hospital admissions. The occurrence of hypotension during drug therapy is preventable through increased awareness. This scoping review aimed to provide a comprehensive overview of antihypertensive and nonantihypertensive drugs associated with hypotension in adults. A systematic literature search was conducted using MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library, focusing on studies from January 2013 to May 2023. Search terms were developed to capture key concepts related to hypotension and adverse drug events in adults while excluding terms related to allergic reactions, phytotherapy and studies involving paediatric, pregnant or animal populations. The eligibility criteria included a wide range of study types evaluating hypotension as an adverse drug event across all healthcare settings. Relevant information was extracted from the included studies, while identified drugs associated with hypotension were categorised into drug classes. The review was reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. In 97 eligible studies, we identified 26 antihypertensive drugs grouped into nine different antihypertensive classes and 158 other drugs grouped into 22 other drug classes. Common antihypertensive classes were angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors, beta blockers and diuretics. Frequently reported nonantihypertensive classes were neuroleptics, alpha‐1 blockers for benign prostatic hyperplasia, benzodiazepines, opioids and antidepressants. The results highlight the importance of healthcare professionals being aware of nonantihypertensive drugs that can cause hypotension. This review provides a basis for future systematic reviews to explore dose‐dependence, drug–drug interactions and confounding factors.