bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Electrolytes for Mg and Ca Batteries Based on Alkoxyborates and Alkoxyaluminates
Authors: Dominko Robert , Pavčnik Tjaša , Lužanin Olivera , Moskon Joze , Gaberscek Miran , Bitenc Jan
Published: December 2024

Magnesium and calcium batteries are considered promising battery technologies due natural abundance of magnesium and calcium, and their low redox potentials (–2.37 V and –2.87 V vs. SHE), respectively. The technology of multivalent batteries is still in the early development stage and one of the main challenges is the lack of suitable electrolytes that enable reversible plating/stripping of Mg/Ca with high Coulombic efficiency in a wide potential window, while also being compatible with the metal anode and cathode materials.

In our recent work, we explore the field of advanced electrolytes based on alkoxyborates and alkoxyaluminates. Different salts were synthesized by exchanging hfip ligands for a variety of alcohols with different sterical properties, number of binding groups, and degree of fluorination. A variety of electrolytes for both systems are studied by physicochemical and electrochemical characterization.

The application of new salts along with some additives will be discussed along with the importance of proper electrochemical wiring of cathode composite containing polymerized redox active organic moieties.

Pavčnik, T. et al.
Batter. Supercaps (2021)

Pavčnik, T. et al.
ACS Appl. Mater. Interfaces (2022)

Lužanin, O., et al. Batter. Supercaps, 6(2), e202200437 (2023)

Lužanin, O., et al. J. Mater. Chem. A, 11, 21553–21560 (2023)
3D MOF Derived Porous Nanorods like Cation Defect-Rich Ni0.6Fe2.4O4@NC Efficient Electrocatalyst Enables Robust Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries
Authors: Mohan Gopalakrishnan , Kheawhom Soorathep
Published: December 2024

Electrochemical energy storage devices with consistent performance, high power output, and energy density are urgently required to meet global energy demand. Zinc-air batteries are quickly gaining popularity as potential energy sources for green energy storage technologies. The air electrodes, combined with some oxygen electrocatalysts, have a significant impact on the cost and performance of Zn-air batteries. However, designing and fabricating efficient electrocatalysts remains a challenge. Because of their unique structural flexibility and uniformly dispersed active sites, metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have emerged as appealing precursors for the synthesis of a wide range of advanced functional materials. Our research suggests using flexible multi-carboxylic acids and bipyridine ligands to create nanorods like NiFe@MOFs with multiple coordination modes and fascinating architectures. MOF precursors were post-annealed in argon at 750 °C, yielding a cation deficient Ni0.6Fe2.4O4@NC electrocatalyst. This 3D electrocatalyst effectively reduces oxygen (E1/2 = 0.85 V) and evolves oxygen (η10 = 207 mV@10 mA cm-2). Furthermore, a rechargeable zinc-air battery with Ni0.6Fe2.4O4@NC as the cathode demonstrated a high open circuit voltage (OCV) of 1.5 V, a peak power density of 194.6 mW cm-2, and exceptional long-term cycling stability over 300 h (1800 cycles, 10 mA cm-2). The flexible solid-state zinc-air battery demonstrated power density of 68.5 mW cm-2 and long-term durability over 35 h at 5 mA cm-2. The proposed strategy allows for the rational design of cation defect-rich spinel structures attached to ultra-thin, N-doped graphitic carbon sheets in order to enhance active site availability and mass electron transport.

Figure 1
Defective High-Entropy Spinel Oxides as Efficient Electrocatalysts for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries
Authors: Ozoemena Kenneth Ikechukwu , Haruna Aderemi Bashiru
Published: December 2024

Rechargeable zinc-air battery (ReZAB) has emerged as a viable alternative to Li-ion battery. It is safe, environmentally friendly, low-cost, and possesses high theoretical specific energy density (1086 Wh/kg) which is about five times than the Li-ion battery. Non-rechargeable zinc-air battery has been around for almost two centuries, but its rechargeable counterpart (ReZAB) is almost non-existent. One of the key frustrations for the development of the ReZAB is the poor electrochemical kinetics of the two oxygen reactions, i.e., oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR). Of the two oxygen reactions, OER is the limiting reaction for ReZAB because of its extreme high overpotential [1,2].

High-entropy spinel oxides (HESOx) are one of the emerging high-entropy materials as electrocatalysts for a plethora of electrocatalytic applications. HESOx exhibit excellent physical and chemical properties that allow them to be used in electrocatalysis, including as bifunctional catalysts for OER/ORR.

This presentation will describe our successful synthesis of defective single nanocrystalline HESOx materials and their application as bifunctional electrocatalysts for OER/ORR and in ReZAB. Importantly, we will show that these defective HESOx electrocatalysts meet the minimum standard for the development of technologically relevant ReZABs that can compete with Li-ion battery pack [3,4].

References

AB Haruna and KI Ozoemena, Manganese-based bifunctional electrocatalysts for zinc-air batteries, Curr. Opin. Electrochem. 2020, 21, 219-224

AK Ipadeola, AB Haruna, L Gaolatlhe, AK Lebechi, J Meng, QQ Pang, K Eid, AM Abdullah, and KI Ozoemena, Efforts at Enhancing Bifunctional Electrocatalysis and Related Events for Rechargeable Zinc-Air Batteries; ChemElectroChem 2021, 8, 3998-4018

JF Parker, JS Ko, DR Rolison, JW Long, Translating materials-level performance into device-relevant metrics for zinc-based batteries, Joule 2018, 2, 2519–2527.

BJ Hopkins, CN Chervin, JF Parker, JW Long, DR Rolison, An areal-energy standard to validate air-breathing electrodes for rechargeable zinc–air batteries, Adv. Energy Mater. 2020, 10, Article 2001287
High Performance Zinc-Based Anodes for Aqueous Zinc Batteries
Authors: Fayette Matthew , Li Xiaolin , Reed David M
Published: December 2024

In the past thirty years, there has been significant development in the search for alternative energy sources such as secondary battery systems. Zinc (fourth-most mined material) has attracted much attention due to its abundance, low-cost, and recyclability. Moreover, as zinc-based batteries can be manufactured with aqueous-based electrolytes that benefits from many advantages of Zn anode, such as low redox potential (-0.76V vs SHE), high theoretical capacity (820mAh/g), and enhanced safety. These features allow for high applicability in large-scale stationary energy storage system. Zinc-based batteries (MnO2/Zinc) have been previously commercialized and are one of the dominant technologies in the primary battery market. However, the alkaline MnO2/Zn battery is not currently considered re-chargeable due to the formation of zinc-dendrites, passivation of Zn metal, and cathode poisoning. In contrast to the alkaline system, the mild acidic system does not suffer from zinc passivation as there is negligible generation of zinc oxide/zinc hydroxide.

In this work, we report a proof-of concept work where electrodeposited zinc-based anodes (zinc and zinc-alloys) are used in mild acidic aqueous electrolyte. The study provides a comparison of commercial zinc foil, and electrodeposited zinc/zinc-alloy. The anodes are further analyzed structurally through X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. To evaluate the feasibility of each anode. further electrochemical characterization was carried out in coin cells as symmetric and full cells. The electrodeposited zinc-based anodes exhibit low electrode polarization (~0.030-0.045V), and more stable cycling performance at 10 mA cm-2 compared to commercial zinc foil. Furthermore, full cells with an electrodeposited zinc or zinc-alloy anode, DTT cathode, in 2M ZnSO4 delivered comparable capacities but higher stability compared to commercial zinc. Consequently, this work points toward a further development for anode materials in rechargeable aqueous zinc batteries for scalable applications.
Rechargeable Ag–Zn Batteries Via Single-Anion Conducting Solid-State Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Ford Hunter O. , Ruzicka Eric Ruzicka , Chaloux Brian , Jayakody Nishani , Swift Michael W , Klug Christopher , Kim Youngchan , Liu Xiao , Jugdersuren Battogtokh , Long Jeffrey W. , Rolison Debra R. , Sassin Megan B.
Published: December 2024

Decarbonizing our energy infrastructure will require implementing battery chemistries beyond lithium-ion that are safe-to-operate and contain non-strategic materials. Silver–zinc, a decades-old battery technology with competitive energy and power density to Li-ion, has been used in both the military and civilian sector, but its widespread adoption is hindered by its poor reversibility and short lifespan. Realizing highly reversible, long cycle life, rechargeable Ag–Zn batteries entails simultaneously addressing two challenges: (i) suppressing shape change at the Zn metal anode that leads to dendrite-driven short-circuits, and (ii) suppressing Ag dissolution and migration out of the cathode. With the issues of shape change at the Zn anode solved by recent advancements in electrode architecture by our group,1 we turn our attention to the design of solid-state polymer electrolytes that suppress Ag dissolution and migration. We report on the synthesis and characterization of a suite of alkaline quaternary ammonium-based single-ion conducting polymer electrolytes suitable for use in Ag–Zn batteries. Specifically, we investigate the link between polymer chemistry and structure on ion transport via systematic tailoring of functional groups within the electrolyte. With these simple structural modifications, we can tune the Ag redox mechanism to shift equilibria away from the formation of Ag complexes responsible for dissolution and migration. By combining solid-state polymer electrolytes that suppress Ag transport with an NRL-patented Zn sponge anode, we demonstrate a high capacity, rechargeable Ag–Zn cell. These results serve as the foundation of a new class of solid-state polymer electrolytes to enable advanced rechargeable Ag–Zn batteries.

(1) Parker, Joseph F., et al. "Wiring zinc in three dimensions re-writes battery performance–dendrite-free cycling." Energy & Environmental Science 7.3 (2014): 1117-1124.
Sex differences in olfactory behavior and neurophysiology in Long Evans rats
Authors: Maheshwar Kruthika V. , Stuart Abigail E. , Kay Leslie M.
Published: December 2024

Olfaction plays a large role in evolutionary processes. However, we know little about sex differences in olfactory bulb neurophysiology, and many scientists believe that females are more variable because of estrus. We show that female rats sniff odors for shorter durations than males and have lower power in neural oscillations related to cognition. Estrus was not related to variance in any measures. Finally, males and females show equal variance on these behavioral and physiological processes.
Combined Effect of Reinforced Katcha Fiber, Kerosene, and Natural Sand in Improving the Engineering Properties of Clay Soil
Authors: Getamesay Bethel , Ashango Argaw Asha
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the impact of reinforcing weak subgrade clay soil (WSCS) from the Koye Feche road project in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, using natural fiber (katcha), kerosene, and sand. Various combinations of katcha fiber content (0.5%, 1%, and 1.5%), kerosene‐soaked katcha fiber lengths (20, 35, and 50 mm), and sand percentages (10%, 15%, and 20%) were tested to determine their effects on the soil’s performance. Unconfined compressive strength (UCS) and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) tests were conducted to identify the optimum mix. Results indicate that the maximum UCS value is achieved with 1% katcha fiber content, 35 mm katcha fiber length, and 20% sand content. The plasticity of the optimum mix decreases to 31.46%, while its strength increases to 59.75% compared to the untreated subgrade clay soil. The reinforced soil demonstrates durability comparable to conventional materials, with a cost‐saving of 40.71% over traditional replacement methods. This suggests the viability of reinforced soil in pavement construction, offering enhanced performance and economic benefits.
Traffic Incident Duration Prediction: A Systematic Review of Techniques
Authors: Grigorev Artur , Mihaita Adriana-Simona , Chen Fang
Published: December 2024

This systematic literature review investigates the application of machine learning (ML) techniques for predicting traffic incident durations, a crucial component of intelligent transportation systems (ITSs) aimed at mitigating congestion and enhancing environmental sustainability. Utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) methodology, we systematically analyze literature that overviews models for incident duration prediction. Our review identifies that while traditional ML models like XGBoost and Random Forest are prevalent, significant potential exists for advanced methodologies such as bilevel and hybrid frameworks. Key challenges identified include the following: data quality issues, model interpretability, and the complexities associated with high‐dimensional datasets. Future research directions proposed include the following: (1) development of data fusion models that integrate heterogeneous datasets of incident reports for enhanced predictive modeling; (2) utilization of natural language processing (NLP) to extract contextual information from textual incident reports; and (3) implementation of advanced ML pipelines that incorporate anomaly detection, hyperparameter optimization, and sophisticated feature selection techniques. The findings underscore the transformative potential of advanced ML methodologies in traffic incident management, contributing to the development of safer, more efficient, and environmentally sustainable transportation systems.
Synthetic Data–Based Approach for Supercapacitor Characterization and Areal Capacitance Optimization Using Cyclic Voltammetry Data
Authors: Srivastava Sanjeet Kumar , Awasthi Himanshi , Hota Chitranjan , Goel Sanket
Published: December 2024

Optimizing areal capacitance for supercapacitors (SCs) using cyclic voltammetry (CV) involves complex, iterative experiments. Multiple tests are necessary to account for variations in electrode–electrolyte interactions and environmental factors, ensuring thorough characterization. However, this process is time consuming and labor intensive. This study leverages machine learning (ML) to streamline the procedure by generating reliable synthetic data, thereby reducing the time and resources required by traditional methods. The reproducibility of synthetic data makes it a valuable tool for research and validation. Various ML models are used for synthetic data generation, selected based on the characteristics of the real data. This research specifically employs the XGBoost (XGB) ML model to introduce variations in scan rates, enriching the dataset within the range of 5–600 mV/s. Results show that ML algorithms effectively preserve the statistical properties of CV data for laser‐induced graphene (LIG) SCs, evidenced by a high R2 value of 0.97 for the synthetic dataset, confirming the data’s fidelity. Additionally, the study introduces a Python module for calculating areal capacitance, facilitating assessment in both real and synthetic datasets. This approach accelerates SC analysis while maintaining data integrity, paving the way for future research and development.
Antecedents of the Intention to Use Implantable Technologies for Nonmedical Purposes: A Mixed‐Method Evaluation
Authors: de Andrés-Sánchez Jorge , Arias-Oliva Mario , Souto-Romero Mar
Published: December 2024

This study investigated the rise of implantable or cyborg technologies, also known as insideables, which offer the potential to improve health‐related conditions and enhance the capabilities of healthy individuals. This research focused on the acceptance of insideables among university students in Spain, utilizing the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) framework along with analytical tools such as partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA). The PLS‐SEM analysis revealed that factors such as performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and social influence positively influenced the intention to use insideables. However, the fsQCA revealed that no single variable is a necessary condition for explaining technology acceptance or rejection. Instead, a combination of constructs is needed to understand both intention to use and rejection. Configurational analysis emphasized the importance of factors such as performance expectancy, social influence, and hedonic motivation in explaining technology acceptance, whereas effort expectancy and perceived risk were less conclusive in their impact on behavioral intention. Moreover, the research revealed that the configurations related to the acceptance and rejection of insideables are asymmetrical. This study sheds light on the complex dynamics of implantable technology acceptance and provides valuable insights into the factors influencing its adoption. From a theoretical perspective, the sequential use of both correlational and configurational methods within the UTAUT framework allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the reasons behind the adoption of emerging technology rather than using only one data analysis methodology.
Urinary Tract Infection and Fetal Outcomes Among Pregnant Women in Adare General Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia
Authors: Yetera Ararso Agegnehu , Nima Tadesse Menjetta , Ali Musa Mohammed , Ormago Moges Desta
Published: December 2024

Background: Fetal complications can occur if pregnant women with urinary tract infection (UTI) are not treated. We aimed to determine the magnitude of UTI, drug resistance profile, and fetal outcomes among pregnant women in Adare General Hospital, Hawassa, Ethiopia.

Methods: Facility‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among 308 pregnant women using questionnaire and review of medical records. From 308 randomly selected pregnant women, clean catch midstream urine samples were collected, processed, and inoculated onto MacConkey and blood agars and after incubation, the colonies were further confirmed by using standard biochemical tests. A binary logistic regression model was used to compute the explanatory variables with the outcome variable. A p value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results: The overall prevalence of UTI was 13.6% with a 95% CI: 10–18. Out of 42 samples, 39 (92.8%) UTI infections in women between the ages of 15 and 34 were identified. The three most common bacterial isolates were Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Staphylococcus saprophyticus. The majority of the Gram‐negative bacteria isolates were resistant to ampicillin (96.2%) and trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (39%), while the Gram‐positive bacteria were resistant to tetracycline (75%) and trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole (68.8%). Of the total 308 pregnant women who participated in the study, there were 51 (16.6%) poor fetal outcomes. In this study, the presence of bacteriuria had a significant association with poor fetal outcomes (p value = 0.001). The mother’s age, gravidity, level of education, occupation, marital status, and previous UTI history were not associated with the current UTI status.

Conclusions: Poor fetal outcomes are strongly associated with UTI during pregnancy. Early detection of UTI and treatment after culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing should be a priority for the management of UTIs in pregnancy to avoid poor fetal outcomes.
Analyzing Campus Drug Abuse Dynamics Through an Infectious Disease Framework
Authors: Gogovi Gideon K. , Qin Ling
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces a mathematical model to elucidate the transmission dynamics of drug abuse within a college environment, focusing on rehabilitation measures and recovery. By calculating the basic reproduction number (R0) and integrating it with significant parameters for drug‐free and drug‐persistent equilibria, we reveal the nuanced impact of rehabilitation on the spread of drug abuse. Our findings indicate that the drug‐free equilibrium of the model is locally asymptotically stable when R0 < 1 and the average number of susceptible individuals who become aware of the use of substances, generated by exposed individuals, is less than one. In contrast, the equilibrium becomes unstable when R0 > 1. Numerical simulations demonstrate that increasing rehabilitation and recovery rates can reduce R0 below unity. However, the effectiveness of these measures may be influenced by factors such as the availability and type of rehabilitation facilities, the quality of rehabilitation programs, and social support systems for recovering students. Further analysis using contour plots highlights that effective control of drug abuse can be achieved with high rehabilitation and recovery rates. The sensitivity analysis of the parameters further underscores the importance of targeting interventions that reduce the transmission rate (κ), such as preventive programs, awareness campaigns, or restrictions on access to drugs. In addition, the study proposes a combination of control strategies, including continuously recruiting a large portion of the infected student population into rehabilitation programs. Collectively, these measures offer promising approaches to managing and potentially eradicating drug abuse within college settings.
Association Between Toxoplasma gondii Infection and Serum Neurotransmitter Levels in Major Depressive Disorder Patients: A Case‐Control Study in Bangladesh
Authors: Gulshan Jerin E. , Lira Samia Sultana , Qusar M. M. A. Shalahuddin , Hosen Md. Ismail , Rahman Atiqur , Islam Md. Rabiul , Rahman Taibur
Published: December 2024

Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) is an obligate, intracellular, neurotropic protozoan parasite. After primary infection, T. gondii parasite undergoes stage conversion from fast‐replicating tachyzoites to slow‐replicating dormant bradyzoites, particularly in the brain, and persists for a lifetime of an individual. In this study, the impact of T. gondii infection in individuals with psychological disorder, that is, major depressive disorder (MDD) has been studied. Ninety‐five MDD (n = 95) patients were enrolled with age and sex‐matched healthy controls (HCs, n = 90). The seroprevalence of T. gondii infection among these individuals was determined using the TOXO IgM/IgG Rapid Test Cassette that determines the anti‐T. gondii IgM and IgG antibodies in the serum samples. Furthermore, to understand the impact of T. gondii in developing major depression, the serum level of neurotransmitters (i.e., dopamine, adrenaline, and noradrenaline) was determined using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our data suggest that anti‐T. gondii IgG was slightly higher in MDD patients than in HCs. The level of dopamine was significantly lower in T. gondii‐infected MDD patients than in HCs. However, adrenaline and noradrenaline levels showed increasing levels in T. gondii‐infected MDD patients. The level of neurotransmitters was correlated with the DSM‐D scores of MDD patients. These data, nevertheless, confirm that T. gondii might affect the level of neurotransmitters in MDD patients. However, whether the reduced level of dopamine and increased level of adrenaline and noradrenaline act as contributing factors for the development of MDD is yet to be known.
Metabolomic Profiling Reveals Biomarkers in Coronary Heart Disease Comorbidity
Authors: Geng Chunmei , Liang Benhui , Kong Zihan , Feng Lei , Wang Jianhua , Si Qingying , Jiang Pei
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims: Coronary heart disease (CHD), hypertension (HTN), depression (Dep), and Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) are often comorbid, resulting in an exacerbated patient condition and worsened prognosis. A lack of systematic metabolomic studies on comorbidities of CHD remains. Therefore, comprehensive metabolomic‐based evaluation of comorbidities of CHD is necessary.

Methods and Results: In the current study, 169 healthy subjects, 149 CHD subjects, 107 CHD + HTN subjects, 126 CHD + Dep subjects, and 58 CHD + T2DM subjects were recruited. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry was used for metabolite determination, and multivariate statistical analysis was conducted to identify metabolites that are differentially expressed with the comorbidities of CHD. There were 9, 16, 14, and 10 metabolites identified in the healthy and CHD group, the CHD and CHD + HTN group, the CHD and CHD + Dep group, and the CHD and CHD + T2DM group, respectively. Six metabolic pathways were affected, involving starch and sucrose metabolism; fructose and mannose metabolism; citrate cycle; alanine, aspartate, and glutamate metabolism; fatty acid biosynthesis; and glycolysis.

Conclusion: Our study has systematically elucidated the metabolic changes underlying the comorbidities of CHD, thereby providing insight into the mechanisms associated with these alterations.
A Survey of Fatty Acid Content of the Male Reproductive System in Mice Supplemented With Arachidonic Acid
Authors: Correa-Navarro Viridiana Abigail , Romo-Morales Gloria del Carmen , Sánchez-Palafox Jaime Eduardo , Rodríguez-Ríos Dalia , Molina-Torres Jorge , Ramírez-Chávez Enrique , Zaina Silvio , Lund Gertrud
Published: December 2024

Paternal exposure to high‐fat diets or individual fatty acids (FAs) including arachidonic acid (AA) modifies progeny traits by poorly understood mechanisms. Specific male reproductive system FAs may be involved in paternal inheritance, as they can modify a range of cellular components, including the epigenome. Our objective was to determine FAs in compartments of the male reproductive system that potentially affect ejaculate composition—right and left testicular interstitial fluid (TIF), vesicular gland fluid (VGF), and epididymal adipose tissue (EAT)—in mice exposed to AA or vehicle daily for 10 days (n = 9–10/group). Whole blood (WB) and interscapular brown adipose tissue (IBAT) FA profiles were used as reference. AA significantly affected only VGF FAs relative to vehicle, that is, increased and decreased levels of arachidic and docosahexaenoic acid, respectively, versus vehicle (0.28% ± 0.01% and 0.23% ± 0.03%, respectively, p = 0.049, and 2.42% ± 0.47% and 3.00% ± 0.58%, respectively, p = 0.041). AA affected distinct FAs in WB. Additionally, we uncovered AA‐dependent and AA‐independent FA laterality. Myristic acid was higher in AA‐exposed left versus right TIF (0.68% ± 0.35% and 0.60% ± 0.11%, respectively, p = 0.004). Right TIF contained higher oleic and linoleic acid and lower stearic acid than left TIF (29.01% ± 3.07% and 24.00% ± 2.18%, respectively, p = 0.005; 9.14% ± 1.88% and 7.05% ± 1.36%, respectively, p = 0.005; and 21.90% ± 2.92% and 26.01% ± 2.46%, respectively, p = 0.036), irrespective of exposure to AA. The TIF oleic/stearic acid ratio suggested higher Stearoyl‐CoA Desaturase 1 activity in the right versus the left testis (1.35 ± 0.32 and 1.00 ± 0.17, respectively, p = 1.0 × 10−4). Multitissue comparisons revealed that TIF and VGF FA profiles were distinct from WB, EAT, or IBAT counterparts, suggesting tissue‐specific FA fingerprints. In conclusion, AA modulated selected VGF long‐chain FAs that may impact on uterine inflammation and subsequent embryonic development. AA altered local FA synthesis or selective uptake, rather than eliciting passive uptake from WB. Additionally, we uncover a significant laterality of testis FAs that may result in asymmetric sperm cell phenotypes.
Generative Adversarial Networks for Improved Model Training in the Context of the Digital Twin
Authors: Megía María , Melero Francisco Javier , Chiachío Manuel , Chiachío Juan
Published: December 2024

Digital twins (DTs) have revolutionised digitalisation practices across various domains, including the Architecture, Engineering, Construction and Operations (AECO) sector. However, DTs often face challenges related to data scarcity, especially in AECO, where tests are costly and difficult to scale. Historical data in this domain are often limited, unstructured and lack interoperability standards. Data scarcity directly affects the accuracy and reliability of the DT models and their decision‐making capabilities. To address these challenges, classical methods are used to produce synthetic data based on predefined statistical distributions, which are barely scalable to unpredictable scenarios and prone to overfitting. Alternately, this work presents a novel comprehensive approach that covers every aspect from synthetic data generation to training and testing of these data on the system’s models. This strategy not only delivers high‐quality data that meets the model’s requirements in terms of diversity, complexity and class balance, but also provides the diagnostic and prognostic capabilities of the DT of the system through its trained models. State‐of‐the‐art techniques including generative adversarial networks (GANs), specifically Wasserstein generative adversarial networks with gradient penalty (WGAN‐GP), and convolutional neural networks (CNNs) are employed in this novel pervasive approach, participating in the same architecture for generative, diagnostic and prognostic purposes. GANs enable data augmentation and reconstruction, while CNNs excel in spatial pattern recognition tasks. The proposed framework is demonstrated through an experimental case study on damage diagnostics and prognostics of a laboratory‐scale metallic tower, where synthetic datasets are generated to supplement limited health monitoring data. The results showcase the effectiveness of the generated data for damage detection, prognostics and operational decision‐making within the DT context. The presented method contributes to overcoming data scarcity challenges and improving the accuracy of DT models in the AECO sector. The article concludes with discussions on the application of the results and their implications for decision‐making within the DT framework.
A Pan-RAS Inhibitor with a Unique Mechanism of Action Blocks Tumor Growth and Induces Antitumor Immunity in Gastrointestinal Cancer
Authors: Foote Jeremy B. , Mattox Tyler E. , Keeton Adam B. , Chen Xi , Smith Forrest T. , Berry Kristy , Holmes Thomas W. , Wang Junwei , Huang Chung-hui , Ward Antonio , Mitra AMIT K. , Ramirez-Alcantara Veronica , Hardy Cherlene , Fleten Karianne G. , Flatmark Kjersti , Yoon Karina J. , Sarvesh Sujith , Nagaraju Ganji P. , Bandi Dhana Sekhar Reddy , Maxuitenko Yulia Y. , Valiyaveettil Jacaob , Carstens Julienne L. , Buchsbaum Donald J. , Yang Jennifer , Zhou Gang , Nurmemmedov Elmar , Babic Ivan , Gaponeko Vadim , Abdelkarim Hazem , Boyd Michael R. , Gorman Greg , Manne Upender , Bae Sejong , El-Rayes Bassel F. , Piazza Gary A.
Published: December 2024

RAS is a common driver of cancer that was considered undruggable for decades. Recent advances have enabled the development of RAS inhibitors, but the efficacy of these inhibitors remains limited by resistance. Here, we developed a pan-RAS inhibitor, ADT-007, that binds nucleotide-free RAS to block GTP activation of effector interactions and MAPK/AKT signaling, resulting in mitotic arrest and apoptosis. ADT-007 potently inhibited the growth of RAS mutant cancer cells irrespective of the RAS mutation or isozyme, and RASWT cancer cells with GTP-activated RAS from upstream mutations were equally sensitive. Conversely, RASWT cancer cells harboring downstream BRAF mutations and normal cells were essentially insensitive to ADT-007. Sensitivity of cancer cells to ADT-007 required activated RAS and dependence on RAS for proliferation, while insensitivity was attributed to metabolic deactivation by UDP-glucuronosyltransferases that were expressed in RASWT and normal cells but repressed in RAS mutant cancer cells. ADT-007 displayed unique advantages over KRAS mutant-specific, pan-KRAS, and pan-RAS inhibitors that could impact in vivo antitumor efficacy by escaping compensatory mechanisms that lead to resistance. Local administration of ADT-007 showed robust antitumor activity in syngeneic immune-competent and xenogeneic immune-deficient mouse models of colorectal and pancreatic cancer. The antitumor activity of ADT-007 was associated with the suppression of MAPK signaling and activation of innate and adaptive immunity in the tumor immune microenvironment. Oral administration of ADT-007 prodrug also inhibited tumor growth. Thus, ADT-007 has the potential to address the complex RAS mutational landscape of many human cancers and to improve treatment of RAS-driven tumors.
Lysosomal–Mitochondrial Interaction Promotes Tumor Growth in Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck
Authors: Gopalkrishnan Avani , Wang Nathaniel , Cruz-Rangel Silvia , Yassin-Kassab Abdul , Shiva Sruti , Kurukulasuriya Chareeni , Monga Satdarshan P. , DeBerardinis Ralph J. , Skinner Heath D. , Kiselyov Kirill , Duvvuri Umamaheswar
Published: December 2024

Communication between intracellular organelles including lysosomes and mitochondria has recently been shown to regulate cellular proliferation and fitness. The way lysosomes and mitochondria communicate with each other [lysosomal–mitochondrial interaction (LMI)] is emerging as a major determinant of tumor proliferation and growth. About 30% of squamous carcinomas [including squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN)] overexpress transmembrane member 16A (TMEM16A), a calcium-activated chloride channel, which promotes cellular growth and negatively correlates with patient survival. We have recently shown that TMEM16A drives lysosomal biogenesis; however, its impact on mitochondrial function has not been explored. In this study, we show that in the context of high-TMEM16A SCCHN, (i) patients display increased mitochondrial content, specifically complex I; (ii) in vitro and in vivo models uniquely depend on mitochondrial complex I activity for growth and survival; (iii) NRF2 signaling is a critical linchpin that drives mitochondrial function, and (iv) mitochondrial complex I and lysosomal function are codependent for proliferation. Taken together, our data demonstrate that coordinated lysosomal and mitochondrial activity and biogenesis via LMI drive tumor proliferation and facilitate a functional interaction between lysosomal and mitochondrial networks. Therefore, inhibition of LMI instauration may serve as a therapeutic strategy for patients with SCCHN.

Implications: Intervention of LMI may serve as a therapeutic approach for patients with high TMEM16A–expressing SCCHN.
Heterogeneous Cardiac-Derived and Neural Crest–Derived Aortic Smooth Muscle Cells Exhibit Similar Transcriptional Changes After TGFβ Signaling Disruption
Authors: Ren Pengwei , Jiang Bo , Hassab Abdulrahman H.M. , Li Guangxin , Li Wei , Assi Roland , Tellides George
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Smooth muscle cells (SMCs) of cardiac and neural crest origin contribute to the developing proximal aorta and are linked to disease propensity in adults.

METHODS:

We analyzed single-cell transcriptomes of aortic SMCs from adult mice to determine basal states and changes after disrupting TGFβ (transforming growth factor-β) signaling necessary for aortic homeostasis.

RESULTS:

A minority of Myh11 lineage-marked SMCs differentially expressed genes suggestive of embryological origin. Additional analyses in Nkx2-5 and Wnt1 lineage-marked SMCs derived from cardiac and neural crest progenitors, respectively, showed both lineages contributed to a major common cluster and each lineage to a minor distinct cluster. Common cluster SMCs extended from root to arch, cardiac subset cluster SMCs from root to ascending, and neural crest subset cluster SMCs were restricted to the arch. The neural crest subset cluster had greater expression of a subgroup of TGFβ-dependent genes. Nonetheless, conditional deletion of TGFβ receptors resulted in similar transcriptional changes among all SMC clusters. Several disease-associated transcriptional responses were comparable among SMC clusters in a mouse model of Marfan syndrome aortopathy, while many embryological markers of murine aortic SMCs were not detected in adult human aortas.

CONCLUSIONS:

There are multiple subtypes of cardiac-derived and neural crest–derived SMCs with shared or distinctive transcriptional profiles; neural crest subset cluster SMCs with increased expression of certain TGFβ-inducible genes are not spatially linked to the aortic root predisposed to aneurysms from aberrant TGFβ signaling; and loss of TGFβ responses after receptor deletion is uniform among SMC clusters.
Nurse-Led Multicomponent Behavioral Activation Intervention for Patients With Atrial Fibrillation: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Li Polly W.C. , Yu Doris S.F. , Yan Bryan P.
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) are often ill-equipped for shared decision-making. This study investigated the effects of a patient empowerment care model on patient-reported health outcomes and treatment decision-making in patients with AF.

METHODS:

This randomized controlled trial prospectively randomized patients with AF to receive standard care (n=194) or a 13-week nurse-led multicomponent behavioral activation intervention (n=198). The intervention consisted of risk profile assessments, empowered shared decision-making regarding the use of oral anticoagulants (OACs), empowered AF self-management, and increased access to professional advice. The primary outcome was health-related quality of life measured after the completion of the intervention (T1), while the secondary outcomes were patient-physician decision concordance regarding OAC use, actual OAC use, AF knowledge, medication adherence, anxiety, and depression.

RESULTS:

The intervention group showed significantly greater improvements in health-related quality of life (β, −6.702 [95% CI, −9.556 to −3.847];
P
<0.001), AF knowledge (β, −1.989 [95% CI, −2.342 to −1.635];
P
<0.001), and medication adherence (β, 0.340 [95% CI, 0.148–0.532];
P
<0.001) at immediate post-intervention compared with the control group, and the improvements were sustained at 6 months for all outcomes. A higher proportion of patients in the intervention group were prescribed an OAC compared with the control group at 6 months (odds ratio, 5.870 [95% CI, 1.957–12.331];
P
=0.012). No significant between-group differences were detected for patient-physician decision concordance regarding OAC use, anxiety, or depression at both time points.

CONCLUSIONS:

The nurse-led multicomponent behavioral activation intervention improved patient-reported outcomes and increased OAC prescription among patients with AF.
Cervical Artery Tortuosity Is Associated With Dissection Occurrence and Late Recurrence: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Mayer-Suess Lukas , Knoflach Michael , Peball Tamara , Mangesius Stephanie , Steiger Ruth , Pereverzyev Sergiy , Lerchner Hannes , Blache Ludovic , Mayr Manuel , Ratzinger Gudrun , Kiechl Stefan , Gizewski Elke R. , Pechlaner Raimund
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

The pathogenesis of spontaneous cervical artery dissection remains unclear, and no established predictors of recurrence exist. Our goal was to investigate the potential association between cervical artery tortuosity, a characteristic of patients with connective tissue disorder, and spontaneous cervical artery dissection.

METHODS:

The ReSect study (Risk Factors for Recurrent Cervical Artery Dissection) is an observational study that invited all spontaneous cervical artery dissection patients treated at the Innsbruck University Hospital between 1996 and 2018 for clinical and radiological follow-up. Internal carotid and vertebral artery tortuosity was assessed on magnetic resonance angiography using a validated 3-dimensional algorithm. Differences between patients and healthy controls as well as dependent on recurrence status were assessed by applying χ
2
, Mann-Whitney
U
test, and Kruskal-Wallis test where applicable, and confounders were established by bivariable Pearson correlation. Logistic regression was used to address the impact of tortuosity on dissection occurrence and recurrence as well as its association to extracellular matrix proteome data derived from skin biopsies in a subset of patients.

RESULTS:

Magnetic resonance angiography was performed a median of 6.5 years after dissection in the included dissection patients. Patients with dissection (n=125) had significantly increased values of internal carotid artery tortuosity compared with healthy controls (n=24; odds ratio, 2.65 [95% CI, 1.68–3.86], 1 SD increase;
P
<0.01). This was also true for patients with long-term dissection recurrence (n=7) when compared with those with single time-point dissection (n=118; odds ratio, 2.00 [95% CI, 1.47–3.99], 1 SD increase;
P
<0.01). In patients with dissection and available extracellular matrix protein data (n=37), 6 of 13 (46.2%) proteins previously found linked with dissection recurrence were also associated with increased tortuosity. All 3 proteins associated with both anterior and posterior circulation tortuosity belonged to the desmosome-related cluster.

CONCLUSIONS:

Internal carotid artery tortuosity is elevated in spontaneous cervical artery dissection patients compared with healthy controls, and this difference is most pronounced if individuals suffer from long-term dissection recurrence. Additionally, an association between tortuosity, being a readily measurable biomarker in routine magnetic resonance angiography, and proteomic markers of dissection recurrence exists, further enhancing the prospect of underlying subclinical connective tissue disease in dissection patients.
Learning or Boredom? Task Adaptation Effects in Sentence Processing Experiments
Authors: Chromý Jan , Tomaschek Fabian
Published: December 2024

Task adaptation, characterized by a progressive increase in speed throughout experimental trials, has been extensively observed across various paradigms. Yet, the underlying mechanisms driving this phenomenon remain unclear. According to the learning-based explanation, participants are implicitly learning, becoming more proficient over time. Conversely, a motivation-based view suggests that participants’ drive wanes gradually, prompting quicker pace and reduced task engagement. These explanations offer distinct predictions. The learning-based view anticipates not only accelerated speed but also improved response accuracy. In contrast, the motivation-based view assumes that participants lose their focus, their pace increases, but their response accuracy tends to decline. The present study tests these implications in a series of six self-paced reading experiments investigating the interplay between reaction times, immediate recall, and trial order. Robust learning effects are documented. Participants not only read progressively faster during the experiments, but they also get better in responding. Moreover, an analysis of recall accuracy reveals systematic differences between different types of information, with nouns yielding substantially higher recall accuracy than adjectives. These findings are explained through attentional mechanisms: prolonged processing of specific words correlates with improved recall. Furthermore, the differential recall patterns are modulated by the task’s question structure, with adjectives recalled more effectively in experiments with a higher proportion of adjective-targeting questions. This underscores participants’ strategic allocation of attention to sentence components deemed crucial for task performance, highlighting the dynamic interplay between learning, motivation, and attentional mechanisms in task adaptation.
Chromatics: Warm and Cool
Authors: Koenderink Jan J. , van Doorn Andrea J. , Braun Doris I.
Published: December 2024

Artistically, an important bipartition of hues is with respect to their warm–cool quality. What might this correspond to in colorimetric terms? Various interpretations have been suggested, mostly informally. We attempt to compare them quantitatively, using either diverse data available from the literature, or formal means. We conclude that it is not possible to differentiate between various ontologically distinct interpretations. The warm–cool axis is roughly aligned with the Orange–Teal axis of the color circle. Leeway is about two steps either way for a 24-step division. Within this margin, virtually all suggested meanings pertain. The dominance of this axis in nature is due to generic physical properties.
Informal organizations over time: Why do member states increase delegation?
Authors: Rodriguez-Toribio Isabel
Published: December 2024

States are increasingly using informal international organizations (IOs) to pursue agreements in global governance. One of the main advantages of these IOs for member states is that their design constrains the amount of authority that can be delegated to them, thereby reducing sovereignty and reputational costs. However, we continue to have limited knowledge about what happens to the design of informal organizations over time. In this article, I argue that while members strategically limit the authority delegated to an informal IO at the foundational stage, this design preference may change over time. In the context of the global governance of money laundering and terrorism financing, I illustrate my argument by comparing the design of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) at different points over 30 years. Drawing on institutional documents and elite interviews, I show how increased delegation can occur when an informal IO needs unforeseen technical expertise to efficiently handle a policy area affecting powerful members.
Targeting Epigenetic Dysregulations in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Li Y. , Lu C.
Published: December 2024

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is one of the deadliest human cancers, with the overall 5-year survival rate stagnating in recent decades due to the lack of innovative treatment approaches. Apart from the recently Food and Drug Administration–approved epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitor and immune checkpoint inhibitor, alternative therapeutic strategies that target epigenetic abnormalities, an emerging cancer hallmark, remain to be fully explored. A pathological epigenetic landscape, characterized by widespread reprogramming of chromatin modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications, which drives transcription deregulation and genome reorganization, has been extensively documented in numerous cancers, including HNSCC. Growing evidence indicates that these frequent epigenomic alterations play pivotal roles in regulating malignant transformation, promoting metastasis and invasion, and reshaping the tumor microenvironment. Furthermore, these epigenetic changes also present unique vulnerabilities that open new avenues for identifying novel prognostic biomarkers and developing targeted antitumor therapies. In this review, we summarize recent discoveries of epigenetic dysregulations in HNSCC, with a focus on deregulated chromatin modifications, which include aberrant DNA methylation, oncohistone H3 lysine 36 to methionine (H3K36M) mutation, as well as recurrent mutations or altered expression of chromatin-modifying enzymes such as NSD1, EZH2, and KMT2C/D. Importantly, we discuss the various molecular mechanisms underlying the contributions of these epigenetic alterations to HNSCC development, particularly their involvement in deregulated cell proliferation and cell death, metabolic reprogramming, tumor immune evasion, and phenotypic plasticity. Finally, we conclude by highlighting the translational and clinical implications of targeting the epigenetic machinery, which offers promising prospects for overcoming resistance to conventional radiotherapy/chemotherapy and enhancing the response to immunotherapy in HNSCC.