bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wildtiereinfluss auf die Waldverjüngung messen: mit Stammzahlen oder mit dem Verbissprozent? | Which measurement category for quantifying the impact of wild ungulates on forest regeneration: stem number or browsing percentage?
Authors: Odermatt Oswald
Published: September 2009

In forest and game management there is frequently controversy about the right measurement category for quantifying the impact of wild ungulates on forest regeneration. This paper tries to describe under which circumstances it is appropriate to determine the browsing percentage and under which circumstances it is preferable to make an analysis of the stem number. The limitations of the two approaches are also described. To quantify the impact of ungulates over a large area, determining the browsing percentage (browsed trees in proportion to the totality of young trees) is the most appropriate, it allows the impact of browsing on the development of the stem number to be monitored. Undesirable developments can be detected early. If the stem number in a particular size category of a certain tree species begins to decrease, this is defined as a critical point.

To identify browsing damage however, the stem number should be analyzed. Such an analysis should only be performed in forest stands where regeneration is required. Absence of regeneration should not be treated as damage in cases where the silvicultural aim does not necessarily involve it.
Changing Energy Requirements in the Mediterranean Under Changing Climatic Conditions
Authors: Giannakopoulos Christos , Hadjinicolaou Panos , Zerefos Christos , Demosthenous George
Published: September 2009

This study investigates the impacts of climate change on energy requirements in the Mediterranean. Energy requirements, especially for space heating and cooling, are closely linked to several weather variables, mainly air temperature. The analysis is based on daily temperature outputs from several regional climate models run at a resolution of 25 km × 25 km in the framework of EU project ENSEMBLES using the A1B emissions scenario. The impacts of changes in temperature on energy requirements are investigated using the concept of degree days, defined as the difference of mean air temperature from a base temperature. Base temperature should be chosen to coincide with the minimum energy consumption. In this way, changes in heating and cooling requirements between the reference and the future period are calculated and areas about to undergo large changes identified. These changes are calculated between a 30-year reference period 1961–1990 and a near future period 2021–2050 taking the ensemble mean of all regional climate models. The near-term future has been chosen instead of the frequently used end-of-the-century period to assist policy makers in their planning. In general, a decrease in energy requirements is projected under future milder winters and an increase under hotter summers.
Biodegradation of Poly(butylene succinate) Powder in a Controlled Compost at 58 °C Evaluated by Naturally-Occurring Carbon 14 Amounts in Evolved CO2 Based on the ISO 14855-2 Method
Authors: Kunioka Masao , Ninomiya Fumi , Funabashi Masahiro
Published: September 2009

The biodegradabilities of poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) powders in a controlled compost at 58 °C have been studied using a Microbial Oxidative Degradation Analyzer (MODA) based on the ISO 14855-2 method, entitled “Determination of the ultimate aerobic biodegradability of plastic materials under controlled composting conditions—Method by analysis of evolved carbon dioxide—Part 2: Gravimetric measurement of carbon dioxide evolved in a laboratory-scale test”. The evolved CO2 was trapped by an additional aqueous Ba(OH)2 solution. The trapped BaCO3 was transformed into graphite via a serial vaporization and reduction reaction using a gas-tight tube and vacuum manifold system. This graphite was analyzed by accelerated mass spectrometry (AMS) to determine the percent modern carbon [pMC (sample)] based on the 14C radiocarbon concentration. By using the theory that pMC (sample) was the sum of the pMC (compost) (109.87%) and pMC (PBS) (0%) as the respective ratio in the determined period, the CO2 (respiration) was calculated from only one reaction vessel. It was found that the biodegradabilities determined by the CO2 amount from PBS in the sample vessel were about 30% lower than those based on the ISO method. These differences between the ISO and AMS methods are caused by the fact that part of the carbons from PBS are changed into metabolites by the microorganisms in the compost, and not changed into CO2.
Polyphenols from Cocoa and Vascular Health—A Critical Review
Authors: Rimbach Gerald , Melchin Mona , Moehring Jennifer , Wagner Anika  E.
Published: September 2009

Cocoa is a rich source of dietary polyphenols. In vitro as well as cell culture data indicate that cocoa polyphenols may exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, as well as anti-atherogenic activity. Several molecular targets (e.g., nuclear factor kappa B, endothelial nitric oxide synthase, angiotensin converting enzyme) have been recently identified which may partly explain potential beneficial cardiovascular effects of cocoa polyphenols. However cocoa polyphenol concentrations, as used in many cell culture studies, are not physiologically achievable. Bioavailability studies indicate that plasma concentrations of cocoa polyphenols following dietary intake are low and in the nanomolar range. Human studies regarding the effect of cocoa polyphenols on vascular health are often underpowered and lack a rigorous study design. If dietary cocoa polyphenol intake is due to chocolate its high energy content needs to be taken into account. In order to determine potential health benefits of cocoa polyphenols large scale, long term, randomized, placebo controlled studies, (ideally with a cross-over design) as well as prospective studies are warranted.
Dielectric and Elastic Characterization of Nonlinear Heterogeneous Materials
Authors: Giordano Stefano
Published: September 2009

This review paper deals with the dielectric and elastic characterization of composite materials constituted by dispersions of nonlinear inclusions embedded in a linear matrix. The dielectric theory deals with pseudo-oriented particles shaped as ellipsoids of revolution: it means that we are dealing with mixtures of inclusions of arbitrary aspect ratio and arbitrary non-random orientational distributions. The analysis ranges from parallel spheroidal inclusions to completely random oriented inclusions. Each ellipsoidal inclusion is made of an isotropic dielectric material described by means of the so-called Kerr nonlinear relation. On the other hand, the nonlinear elastic characterization takes into consideration a dispersion of nonlinear (spherical or cylindrical) inhomogeneities. Both phases are considered isotropic (actually it means polycrystalline or amorphous solids). Under the simplifying hypotheses of small deformation for the material body and of small volume fraction of the embedded phase, we describe a theory for obtaining the linear and nonlinear elastic properties (bulk and shear moduli and Landau coefficients) of the overall material.
On the Suitability of MODIS Time Series Metrics to Map Vegetation Types in Dry Savanna Ecosystems: A Case Study in the Kalahari of NE Namibia
Authors: Hüttich Christian , Gessner Ursula , Herold Martin , Strohbach Ben  J. , Schmidt Michael , Keil Manfred , Dech Stefan
Published: September 2009

The characterization and evaluation of the recent status of biodiversity in Southern Africa’s Savannas is a major prerequisite for suitable and sustainable land management and conservation purposes. This paper presents an integrated concept for vegetation type mapping in a dry savanna ecosystem based on local scale in-situ botanical survey data with high resolution (Landsat) and coarse resolution (MODIS) satellite time series. In this context, a semi-automated training database generation procedure using object-oriented image segmentation techniques is introduced. A tree-based Random Forest classifier was used for mapping vegetation type associations in the Kalahari of NE Namibia based on inter-annual intensity- and phenology-related time series metrics. The utilization of long-term inter-annual temporal metrics delivered the best classification accuracies (Kappa = 0.93) compared with classifications based on seasonal feature sets. The relationship between annual classification accuracies and bi-annual precipitation sums was conducted using data from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM). Increased error rates occurred in years with high rainfall rates compared to dry rainy seasons. The variable importance was analyzed and showed high-rank positions for features of the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) and the blue and middle infrared bands, indicating that soil reflectance was crucial information for an accurate spectral discrimination of Kalahari vegetation types. Time series features related to reflectance intensity obtained increased rank-positions compared to phenology-related metrics.
Advances in Multi-Sensor Data Fusion: Algorithms and Applications
Authors: Dong Jiang , Zhuang Dafang , Huang Yaohuan , Fu Jingying
Published: September 2009

With the development of satellite and remote sensing techniques, more and more image data from airborne/satellite sensors have become available. Multi-sensor image fusion seeks to combine information from different images to obtain more inferences than can be derived from a single sensor. In image-based application fields, image fusion has emerged as a promising research area since the end of the last century. The paper presents an overview of recent advances in multi-sensor satellite image fusion. Firstly, the most popular existing fusion algorithms are introduced, with emphasis on their recent improvements. Advances in main applications fields in remote sensing, including object identification, classification, change detection and maneuvering targets tracking, are described. Both advantages and limitations of those applications are then discussed. Recommendations are addressed, including: (1) Improvements of fusion algorithms; (2) Development of “algorithm fusion” methods; (3) Establishment of an automatic quality assessment scheme.
Investigation of SOI Raman Lasers for Mid-Infrared Gas Sensing
Authors: Passaro Vittorio M. N. , De Leonardis Francesco
Published: September 2009

In this paper, the investigation and detailed modeling of a cascaded Raman laser, operating in the midwave infrared region, is described. The device is based on silicon-on-insulator optical waveguides and a coupled resonant microcavity. Theoretical results are compared with recent experiments, demonstrating a very good agreement. Design criteria are derived for cascaded Raman lasers working as continuous wave light sources to simultaneously sense two types of gases, namely C2H6 and CO2, at a moderate power level of 130 mW.
Integration of an On-Axis General Sun-Tracking Formula in the Algorithm of an Open-Loop Sun-Tracking System
Authors: Chong Kok-Keong , Wong Chee-Woon , Siaw Fei-Lu , Yew Tiong-Keat , Ng See-Seng , Liang Meng-Suan , Lim Yun-Seng , Lau Sing-Liong
Published: September 2009

A novel on-axis general sun-tracking formula has been integrated in the algorithm of an open-loop sun-tracking system in order to track the sun accurately and cost effectively. Sun-tracking errors due to installation defects of the 25 m2 prototype solar concentrator have been analyzed from recorded solar images with the use of a CCD camera. With the recorded data, misaligned angles from ideal azimuth-elevation axes have been determined and corrected by a straightforward changing of the parameters’ values in the general formula of the tracking algorithm to improve the tracking accuracy to 2.99 mrad, which falls below the encoder resolution limit of 4.13 mrad.
Place-Making through Water Sensitive Urban Design
Authors: Vernon Byron , Tiwari Reena
Published: September 2009

The paper aims to develop a practice and evaluation model for public open spaces in residential areas that considers water sensitive urban design techniques contributing to place-making.
Evaluation of Refraction in a Statistically Significant Sample: Changes According to Age and Strabismus
Authors: Chiesi Carlo , Chiesi Laura , Cavallini Gian Maria
Published: September 2009

Purpose:

To assess possible refractive changes according to age and strabismus in a statistically significant cohort.

Methods:

A population-based sample of 12,534 subjects 0.5 to 20 years old, examined between 2004 and 2006, was tested. Each subject received a complete orthoptic examination, including spherocylindrical streak retinoscopy in cycloplegia. Patients were divided into those with orthophoria (7,784) and those with strabismus (4,750), and the latter group was further divided into those with esodeviation (3,026) and those with exodeviation (1,724). A statistical analysis of the spherical equivalent, astigmatism, and anisometropia was performed with an independent samples
t
test or one-way analysis of variance.

Results:

The percentage of patients with a mean spherical equivalent within ± 1 and ± 2 standard deviations was greater than 68% and 95%, respectively. The mean spherical equivalent of the total sample was 1.62 diopters (D) (± 2.88). The mean spherical equivalent was 1.10 ± 2.94 D in the orthophoria group, 3.22 ± 2.29 D in the esodeviation group, and 1.13 ± 2.50 D in the exodeviation group (one-way analysis of variance;
P
= .000). Age-related changes in the mean spherical equivalent showed a clear and steady myopic shift, reaching mean myopic refraction at 12 to 14 years in both the total sample and the orthophoria and exodeviation groups. It assumed a more constant trend, with no myopic swing, in the esodeviation group (
P
= .000). Mean astigmatism was less in patients with less than 1.00 D anisometropia (0.83 ± 0.92 D) than in those with 1.00 D or greater anisometropia (1.42 ± 1.18 D) (
t
test;
P
= .0001).

Conclusion:

Both the age-related trend in the spherical equivalent and the high hyperopic values of the distribution peak in patients with esodeviation confirm the importance of the hypermetropic refractive component. The statistically significantly higher incidence of astigmatism in patients with 1.00 D or greater ametropia highlights its incidence in amblyopia.

[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:266–272.]
A Patient With Bilateral Persistent Pupillary Membrane: A Conservative Approach
Authors: Kurt Emin
Published: September 2009

The author describes the case of a girl with bilateral persistent pupillary membranes and good visual acuity. An otherwise healthy 10-year-old girl presented with persistent pupillary membranes in both eyes since childhood. The patient had ametropic amblyopia, which was treated with spectacles and part-time occlusion therapy, with the patient responding conventionally. After therapy, her best-corrected visual acuity was 20/25 in both eyes. She had stereopsis of 50 seconds of arc, orthophoria, and normal extraocular movements. The remainder of the examination was normal. Patients with bilateral persistent pupillary membranes may not require surgery if there is adequate opening. The author suggests a trial of refractive correction and occlusion therapy before deciding on surgical and laser intervention, even if it seems an absolute requirement.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:300–302.]
Leigh's Disease Associated With a Dorsal Midbrain Syndrome
Authors: West Stephanie K. , Connors Lesley , Cox Timothy C. S. , Coker Timothy P.
Published: September 2009

Leigh's disease is a rare progressive neurodegenerative condition caused by a mitochondrial cytopathy. The authors present the case of a 9-year-old girl with dorsal midbrain syndrome causing convergence retraction nystagmus. Magnetic resonance imaging, skin biopsy, and genetic testing confirmed the cause to be Leigh's disease due to two
SURF1
mutations. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of dorsal midbrain syndrome caused by a mitochondrial cytopathy.
[J Pediatr Ophthalmol Strabismus 2009;46:304–305.]
Clinicopathological Study of a Case of Unsuspected Retinoblastoma
Authors: Biswas Jyotirmay , Das Dipankar , Vaijayanthi P. , Khetan Vikas , Kumar S. Krishna
Published: September 2009

Retinoblastoma is the most common primary malignant intraocular tumor of childhood. It may present with atypical features, particularly in older children. The authors report a case of unsuspected retinoblastoma following evisceration in a 9-year-old girl who had previous pars plana vitrectomy in the affected eye.
Demographic Changes and Response to Laser Treatment in Threshold Retinopathy of Prematurity: 10-Year Experience
Authors: Kim Judy E. , Lee Alexander C.
Published: September 2009

Purpose:

To evaluate the outcome of indirect diode laser treatment for threshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) and to report demographic changes observed over 10 years.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review and statistical analysis of 111 eyes of 61 infants treated for threshold ROP between 1991 and 2001 at a single academic institution.

Results:

Ninety-six of 111 (86%) eyes showed regression of neovascularization after laser treatment. Fourteen (13%) eyes had zone 1 disease and 97 (87%) eyes had zone 2 disease. Thirty-six percent of eyes with zone 1 disease progressed to stage 4 or 5 disease despite treatment, whereas 10% of the zone 2 eyes progressed. Based on multivariate logistic regression, zone and female gender were found to be predictive of progression, whereas birth weight was predictive of zone. Between 1991 and 2001, a significant trend toward lower mean gestational age at time of birth (Pearson correlation = −0.36,
P
= .005) and mean birth weight (Pearson correlation = −0.35,
P
= .0041) was found. However, progression rates to stage 4 and 5 disease following laser treatment were similar for infants born before and after 1997 (
P
= .0796).

Conclusion:

Regression of neovascularization was noted in 86% of eyes following laser treatment for threshold ROP. Zone was predictive of progression to stage 4 or 5 despite treatment. Premature infants being treated for threshold ROP tended to be born at an earlier gestational age and with lower birth weights over time, but progression rates to more severe stages did not increase following laser treatment, suggesting that optimal treatment can yield favorable ocular outcomes.
Pure Hemozoin Is Inflammatory In Vivo and Activates the NALP3 Inflammasome via Release of Uric Acid
Authors: Griffith Jason W. , Sun Tiffany , McIntosh Michael T. , Bucala Richard
Published: September 2009

The role of proinflammatory cytokine production in the pathogenesis of malaria is well established, but the identification of the parasite products that initiate inflammation is not complete. Hemozoin is a crystalline metabolite of hemoglobin digestion that is released during malaria infection. In the present study, we characterized the immunostimulatory activity of pure synthetic hemozoin (sHz) in vitro and in vivo. Stimulation of naive murine macrophages with sHz results in the MyD88-independent activation of NF-κB and ERK, as well as the release of the chemokine MCP-1; these responses are augmented by IFN-γ. In macrophages prestimulated with IFN-γ, sHz also results in a MyD88-dependent release of TNF-α. Endothelial cells, which encounter hemozoin after schizont rupture, respond to sHz by releasing IL-6 and the chemokines MCP-1 and IL-8. In vivo, the introduction of sHz into the peritoneal cavity produces an inflammatory response characterized by neutrophil recruitment and the production of MCP-1, KC, IL-6, IL-1α, and IL-1β. MCP-1 and KC are produced independently of MyD88, TLR2/4 and TLR9, and components of the inflammasome; however, neutrophil recruitment, the localized production of IL-1β, and the increase in circulating IL-6 require MyD88 signaling, the IL-1R pathway, and the inflammasome components ICE (IL-1β-converting enzyme), ASC (apoptosis-associated, speck-like protein containing CARD), and NALP3. Of note, inflammasome activation by sHz is reduced by allopurinol, which is an inhibitor of uric acid synthesis. These data suggest that uric acid is released during malaria infection and may serve to augment the initial host response to hemozoin via activation of the NALP3 inflammasome.
Genetic Evidence That the Differential Expression of the Ligand-Independent Isoform of CTLA-4 Is the Molecular Basis of the Idd5.1 Type 1 Diabetes Region in Nonobese Diabetic Mice
Authors: Araki Manabu , Chung Denise , Liu Sue , Rainbow Daniel B. , Chamberlain Giselle , Garner Valerie , Hunter Kara M. D. , Vijayakrishnan Lalitha , Peterson Laurence B. , Oukka Mohamed , Sharpe Arlene H. , Sobel Raymond , Kuchroo Vijay K. , Wicker Linda S.
Published: September 2009

Idd5.1 regulates T1D susceptibility in nonobese diabetic (NOD) mice and has two notable candidate genes, Ctla4 and Icos. Reduced expression of one of the four CTLA-4 isoforms, ligand-independent CTLA-4 (liCTLA-4), which inhibits in vitro T cell activation and cytokine production similarly to full-length CTLA-4 (flCTLA-4), has been hypothesized to increase type 1 diabetes (T1D) susceptibility. However, further support of this hypothesis is required since the Idd5.1 haplotypes of the diabetes-susceptible NOD and the resistant B10 strains differ throughout Ctla4 and Icos. Using haplotype analysis and the generation of novel Idd5.1-congenic strains that differ at the disease-associated Ctla4 exon 2 single-nucleotide polymorphism, we demonstrate that increased expression of liCTLA-4 correlates with reduced T1D susceptibility. To directly assess the ability of liCTLA-4 to modulate T1D, we generated liCTLA-4-transgenic NOD mice and compared their diabetes susceptibility to nontransgenic littermates. NOD liCTLA-4-transgenic mice were protected from T1D to the same extent as NOD.B10 Idd5.1-congenic mice, demonstrating that increased liCTLA-4 expression alone can account for disease protection. To further investigate the in vivo function of liCTLA-4, specifically whether liCTLA-4 can functionally replace flCTLA-4 in vivo, we expressed the liCTLA-4 transgene in CTLA-4−/− B6 mice. CTLA-4−/− mice expressing liCTLA-4 accumulated fewer activated effector/memory CD4+ T cells than CTLA-4−/− mice and the transgenic mice were partially rescued from the multiorgan inflammation and early lethality caused by the disruption of Ctla4. These results suggest that liCTLA-4 can partially replace some functions of flCTLA-4 in vivo and that this isoform evolved to reinforce the function of flCTLA-4.
Enhanced Th2 Cell Differentiation and Allergen-Induced Airway Inflammation in Zfp35-Deficient Mice
Authors: Kitajima Masayuki , Iwamura Chiaki , Miki-Hosokawa Takako , Shinoda Kenta , Endo Yusuke , Watanabe Yukiko , Shinnakasu Ryo , Hosokawa Hiroyuki , Hashimoto Kahoko , Motohashi Shinichiro , Koseki Haruhiko , Ohara Osamu , Yamashita Masakatsu , Nakayama Toshinori
Published: September 2009

Studies of human asthma and of animal models of allergic airway inflammation revealed a crucial role for Th2 cells in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. Kruppel-type zinc finger proteins are the largest family of a regulatory transcription factor for cellular development and function. Zinc finger protein (Zfp) 35 is an 18-zinc finger motif-containing Kruppel-type zinc finger protein, while its function remains largely unknown. The aim of this study was to clarify the role of Zfp35 in the pathogenesis of Th2-dependent allergic inflammation, such as allergic asthma. We examined airway eosinophilic inflammation and hyperresponsiveness in two mouse models, which use our newly generated Zfp35-deficient (Zfp35−/−) mice and adoptive transfer of cells. In Zfp35−/− mice, Th2 cell differentiation, Th2 cytokine production, eosinophilic inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness were substantially enhanced. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of Ag-sensitized Zfp35−/− CD4 T cells into the asthmatic mice resulted in enhanced airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness. These results indicate that Zfp35 controls Th2 cell differentiation, allergic airway inflammation, and airway hyperresponsiveness in a negative manner. Thus, Zfp35 may control Th2-dependent diseases, such as allergic asthma.
Ethanol-Induced Expression of ET-1 and ET-BR in Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Human Endothelial Cells Involves Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α and MicroRNA-199
Authors: Yeligar Samantha , Tsukamoto Hidekazu , Kalra Vijay K.
Published: September 2009

Chronic alcohol consumption leads to inflammation and cirrhosis of the liver. In this study, we observed that liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSEC) derived from ethanol-fed rats showed several fold increases in the mRNA expression of endothelin-1 (ET-1), hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α), and inflammatory cytochemokines compared with control rat LSEC. We also observed the same results in acute ethanol-treated LSEC from control rats and human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Ethanol-mediated ET-1 expression involved NADPH oxidase and HIF-1α activation. Furthermore, ethanol increased the expression of the ET-1 cognate receptor ET-BR in Kupffer cells and THP-1 monocytic cells, which also involved HIF-1α activation. Promoter analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation showed that hypoxia response element sites in the proximal promoter of ET-1 and ET-BR were required for the binding of HIF-1α to up-regulate their expression. We showed that microRNAs, miR-199 among several microRNAs, attenuated HIF-1α and ET-1 expression, while anti-miR-199 reversed the effects, suggesting that ethanol-induced miR-199 down-regulation may contribute to augmented HIF-1α and ET-1 expression. Our studies, for the first time to our knowledge, show that ethanol-mediated ET-1 and ET-BR expression involve HIF-1α, independent of hypoxia. Additionally, ethanol-induced ET-1 expression in rat LSEC is regulated by miR-199, while in human endothelial cells, ET-1 expression is regulated by miR-199 and miR-155, indicating that these microRNAs may function as novel negative regulators to control ET-1 transcription and, thus, homeostatic levels of ET-1 to maintain microcirculatory tone.
Novel Roles of Lysines 122, 125, and 58 in Functional Differences between Human and Murine MD-2
Authors: Vašl Jožica , Oblak Alja , Gioannini Theresa L. , Weiss Jerrold P. , Jerala Roman
Published: September 2009

The MD-2/TLR4 complex provides a highly robust mechanism for recognition and response of mammalian innate immunity to Gram-negative bacterial endotoxins. Despite overall close structural and functional similarity, human (h) and murine (m) MD-2 show several species-related differences, including the ability of hMD-2, but not mMD-2, to bind endotoxin (E) in the absence of TLR4. Wild-type mMD-2 can support TLR4-dependent cell activation by E only when mMD-2 and mTLR4 are coexpressed in the same cell. However, replacement of Glu122, Leu125, and/or Asn58 of mMD-2 with the corresponding residues (lysines) of hMD-2 was sufficient to yield soluble extracellular MD-2 that reacted with monomeric E · sCD14 complex to form extracellular monomeric E · MD-2 that activated cells expressing TLR4 without MD-2. Moreover, in contrast to wild-type mMD-2, double and triple mMD-2 mutants also supported E-triggered signaling in combination with human TLR4. Conversely, a K125L mutant of hMD-2 reacted with E · CD14 and activated TLR4 only when coexpressed with TLR4, and not when secreted without TLR4. These findings reveal novel roles of lysines 122, 125, and 58 in human MD-2 that contribute to the functional differences between human and murine MD-2 and, potentially, to differences in the sensitivity of humans and mice to endotoxin.
Disentangling the Unusual Magnetic Anisotropy of the Near‐Room‐Temperature Ferromagnet Fe4GeTe2
Authors: Pal Riju , Abraham Joyal John , Mistonov Alexander , Mishra Swarnamayee , Stilkerich Nina , Mondal Suchanda , Mandal Prabhat , Pal Atindra Nath , Geck Jochen , Büchner Bernd , Kataev Vladislav , Alfonsov Alexey
Published: April 2024

In the quest for 2D conducting materials with high ferromagnetic ordering temperature the new family of the layered FenGeTe2 compounds, especially the near‐room‐temperature ferromagnet Fe4GeTe2, receives a significant attention. Fe4GeTe2 features a peculiar spin reorientation transition at TSR ≈ 110 K suggesting a non‐trivial temperature evolution of the magnetic anisotropy (MA)—one of the main contributors to the stabilization of the magnetic order in the low‐dimensional systems. An electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopic study reported here provides quantitative insights into the unusual magnetic anisotropy of Fe4GeTe2. At high temperatures the total MA is mostly given by the demagnetization effect with a small contribution of the counteracting intrinsic magnetic anisotropy of an easy‐axis type, whose growth below a characteristic temperature Tshape ≈ 150 K renders the sample seemingly isotropic at TSR. Below one further temperature Td ≈ 50 K the intrinsic MA becomes even more complex. Importantly, all the characteristic temperatures found in the ESR experiment match those observed in transport measurements, suggesting an inherent coupling between magnetic and electronic degrees of freedom in Fe4GeTe2. This finding together with the observed signatures of the intrinsic two‐dimensionality should facilitate optimization routes for the use of Fe4GeTe2 in the magneto‐electronic devices, potentially even in the monolayer limit.
A Polysulfides‐Defensive, Dendrite‐Suppressed, and Flame‐Retardant Separator with Lean Electrolyte for Room Temperature Sodium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Xu Huixiang , Xiang Yang , Xu Xuan , Liang Ye , Li Yi , Qi Yuruo , Xu Maowen
Published: April 2024

The dissolution/shuttling of sodium polysulfides, coupled with sodium dendrites growth, severely compromises the lifespan and stability of room temperature sodium–sulfur (RT Na–S) batteries. Herein, it proposes employing a functionalized porous ZIF‐based membrane (PZM) to address these two challenges. First, the metal ions embedded within the zeolitic imidazolate framework chemically bind with polysulfide anions, curtailing their detrimental shuttling. Second, the tailored porous structure of the membrane ensures a selective and uniform pathway for sodium ions, significantly reducing non‐uniform deposition and curbing dendritic sodium growth. Third, the intrinsically non‐combustible nature of the ZIF‐based membrane acts as a fortification against thermal outbursts and electrolyte decomposition. Implementing this polysulfide‐resistant, dendrite‐inhibiting and flame‐retardant PZM with a standard S/C cathode leads to the creation of a robust separator with lean electrolyte RT Na–S battery. This configuration may impart a novel perspective for the advancement and enhancement of RT Na–S battery systems.
Highly Permeable Nanoparticles Achieve Efficient Tumor Treatment through Oxygen‐Independent Photonic Thermodynamic Therapy
Authors: Xiao Jian , Wang Chun , Zhao Yu , Cao Xianghui , Li Qiushi , Wu Xueyao , Liu Yang
Published: April 2024

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) represents a promising strategy for tumor treatment. However, the development of PDT‐based antitumor therapies faces challenges stemming from the hypoxic nature of the tumor microenvironment and the limited penetration of photosensitizers. This study presents a novel class of antitumor nanoparticles, designated as ARLN‐FP, engineered to penetrate tumor tissues deeply and inhibit tumor growth through the generation of oxygen‐independent free radicals. With the encapsulation of IR780 and dimethyl 2,2′‐azobis(2‐methylpropionate) (AIBME) in the core of ARLN‐FP, near‐infrared (NIR) laser irradiation of ARLN‐FP with induced heat generation, which subsequentially led to the decomposition of AIBME and the production of free radicals without relying on oxygen. In vitro studies indicated that ARLN‐FP penetrated more than 100 µm into multicellular tumor spheroids, demonstrating its enhanced tissue permeability. Animal studies confirmed the anti‐tumor effects of ARLN‐FP‐mediated photonic thermodynamic therapy, where the oxygen‐independent radical formation contributed to successful tumor eradication, evidenced by a significant tumor inhibition rate of 90.8% after 22 days. This research presents a feasible method to overcome the limitations of traditional oxygen‐dependent photodynamic therapies, which offers a new approach to developing nanomedicines to overcome resistance in deep and hypoxic tumor regions.
Ascorbic Acid‐derived New Polymer Spheres via Ternary Copolymerization for Highly Effective Activation of B Cells
Authors: Han Gengxu , Li Fangshen , Yu Bin , Liu Yumeng , Yang Jiaming , Feng Jiyuan , Zhang Ling , Yu Xianghui , Qiao Zhen‐An
Published: April 2024

Lymphocytes are crucial to defend against harmful pathogens and sustain adaptive immunity. Developing immunomodulating materials to activate lymphocytes is imperative to induce effective and enduring immune responses. Here, a new polymer serving as a highly efficient activator of B cells is reported and corresponding polymer spheres are synthesized through a droplet‐assisted ternary copolymerization process of ascorbic acid, ethylenediamine, and glyoxal. In‐depth studies are conducted on the polymerization mechanisms and polymer spheres ranging from 250 to 1200 nm with various surface functional groups are synthesized. These prepared polymer materials exhibit remarkable immunomodulatory functions correlated to the polymer spheres' size and surface functional groups, and effective activations on B cells are observed in vivo and in vitro. Through cell phagocytosis experiments and RNA sequencing analysis, it is proposed that the selective phagocytosis of B cells and the presence of CD21 on the B cell membrane contribute to the activation of B cells. This work has extended the realm of immunological research from a unique perspective of chemical synthesis, further substantiating the fundamental research and application potential of designing immunomodulating polymers.
Implanted Carbon Nanotubes Harvest Electrical Energy from Heartbeat for Medical Implants
Authors: Ruhparwar Arjang , Osswald Anja , Kim Heewoo , Wakili Reza , Müller Jan , Pizanis Nikolaus , Al‐Rashid Fadi , Hendgen‐Cotta Ulrike , Rassaf Tienush , Kim Seon Jeong
Published: April 2024

Reliability of power supply for current implantable electronic devices is a critical issue for longevity and for reducing the risk of device failure. Energy harvesting is an emerging technology, representing a strategy for establishing autonomous power supply by utilizing biomechanical movements in human body. Here, a novel “Twistron energy cell harvester” (TECH), consisting of coiled carbon nanotube yarn that converts mechanical energy of the beating heart into electrical energy, is presented. The performance of TECH is evaluated in an in vitro artificial heartbeat system which simulates the deformation pattern of the cardiac surface, reaching a maximum peak power of 1.42 W kg−1 and average power of 0.39 W kg−1 at 60 beats per minute. In vivo implantation of TECH onto the left ventricular surface in a porcine model continuously generates electrical energy from cardiac contraction. The generated electrical energy is used for direct pacing of the heart as documented by extensive electrophysiology mapping. Implanted modified carbon nanotubes are applicable as a source for harvesting biomechanical energy from cardiac motion for power supply or cardiac pacing.
Atomic‐Level Engineered Cobalt Catalysts for Fenton‐Like Reactions: Synergy of Single Atom Metal Sites and Nonmetal‐Bonded Functionalities
Authors: Zhu Zhong‐Shuai , Wang Yantao , Duan Xiaoguang , Wang Pengtang , Zhong Shuang , Ren Shiying , Xu Xing , Gao Baoyu , Vongsvivut Jitraporn (Pimm) , Wang Shaobin
Published: April 2024

Single atom catalysts (SACs) are atomic‐level‐engineered materials with high intrinsic activity. Catalytic centers of SACs are typically the transition metal (TM)–nonmetal coordination sites, while the functions of coexisting non‐TM‐bonded functionalities are usually overlooked in catalysis. Herein, the scalable preparation of carbon‐supported cobalt‐anchored SACs (CoCN) with controlled Co─N sites and free functional N species is reported. The role of metal‐ and nonmetal‐bonded functionalities in the SACs for peroxymonosulfate (PMS)‐driven Fenton‐like reactions is first systematically studied, revealing their contribution to performance improvement and pathway steering. Experiments and computations demonstrate that the Co─N3C coordination plays a vital role in the formation of a surface‐confined PMS* complex to trigger the electron transfer pathway and promote kinetics because of the optimized electronic state of Co centers, while the nonmetal‐coordinated graphitic N sites act as preferable pollutant adsorption sites and additional PMS activation sites to accelerate electron transfer. Synergistically, CoCN exhibits ultrahigh activity in PMS activation for p‐hydroxybenzoic acid oxidation, achieving complete degradation within 10 min with an ultrahigh turnover frequency of 0.38 min−1, surpassing most reported materials. These findings offer new insights into the versatile functions of N species in SACs and inspire rational design of high‐performance catalysts in complicated heterogeneous systems.
Liquid Crystal Elastomer Actuators Enhanced by Tapered Optical Fibers for Controllable Bending Directions and Amplitudes
Authors: He Yongcheng , Liu Haojun , Luo Jiajia , Li Nuo , Zhang Zhishen , Gan Jiulin , Yang Zhongmin
Published: April 2024

Liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) photoactuators offer a versatile platform for executing complicated tasks through precisely controlled bending directions and amplitudes. Optical waveguides assist photoactuators to perform tasks unimpededly. While most existing optical waveguide actuators are limited to unidirectional bending, limiting their versatility. Here, a LCE actuator integrated with a tapered optical fiber with controllable bending directions and amplitudes is presented. The LCE actuator displays bending motions induced by uneven shrinkage due to the off‐center fiber. The bending directions are parallel to the previous uniaxial alignment of the LCE film, which can be adjusted to an arbitrary angle with the tapered optical fiber. The LCE actuators exhibit adaptable bending directions at 0°, 45°, and 90°, representing the possible bending motions. The bending amplitudes are regulated by infrared laser power. A hook‐like LCE actuator with 0° bending direction carried the handle of a basket. In addition, a 90° bending direction LCE actuator displays the shrinkage behavior, showing a special bending motion control. Moreover, a bionic hand, comprising five LCE actuators with various bending directions, exhibited diverse gestures with precise control. The controllable bending motions in optical waveguide actuators expand the promising applications in complicated scenarios, such as catheters or other medical devices.
Bioinspired Potentiometric and Passive Strain Sensing Based on Mechanical Regulation of Ionically Conductive Percolating Networks
Authors: Zhang Xuyi , Zhou Ruili , Yang Fan , Zhang Jiabei , Wu Xiaodong
Published: April 2024

Flexible strain sensors are essential components for wearable devices, human‐machine interaction systems, and intelligent soft robots. Current active strain sensors have high power consumption, while passive strain sensors exhibit limitations in detecting static or slowly‐varying stimulations. Here, inspired by the strain sensing behavior of Ruffini endings in natural skin, a new type of potentiometric, fully passive, and highly stretchable strain sensors are presented based on the mechanical regulation of ionically conductive percolating networks. Specifically, an artificial potential difference is first created with two electrochemical active electrodes, followed by encoding external strain stimulations into the potential difference variations using a new class of highly elastic and ionically conductive composites with configurable ionic percolating networks. Based on the proposed passive strain sensing mechanism, both static and slowly‐varying strain stimulations (up to 100%) can be monitored with ultralow power consumption (at nW level). Promising applications of the passive strain sensors in human motion monitoring, Morse code communication, and hand gesture recognition are demonstrated. This work opens up a new avenue to constructing novel strain sensing devices with high stretchability, ultralow power consumption, and desirable sensing performance.
H2S Increases Blood Pressure via Activation of L‐Type Calcium Channels with Mediation by HS• Generated from Reactions with Oxyhemoglobin
Authors: Liu Taiming , Zhang Meijuan , Hanson Shawn , Juarez Rucha , Wilson Sean , Schroeder Hobe , Li Qian , Zhu Lingchao , Zhang Guangyu , Blood Arlin B.
Published: April 2024

Although the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is well known for its vasodilatory effects, H2S also exhibits vasoconstricting properties. Herein, it is demonstrated that administration of H2S as intravenous sodium sulfide (Na2S) increased blood pressure in sheep and rats, and this effect persisted after H2S has disappeared from the blood. Inhibition of the L‐type calcium channel (LTCC) diminished the hypertensive effects. Incubation of Na2S with whole blood, red blood cells, methemoglobin, or oxyhemoglobin produced a hypertensive product of H2S, which is not hydrogen thioperoxide, metHb‐SH− complexes, per‐/poly‐ sulfides, or thiolsulfate, but rather a labile intermediate. One‐electron oxidation of H2S by oxyhemoglobin generated its redox cousin, sulfhydryl radical (HS•). Consistent with the role of HS• as the hypertensive intermediate, scavenging HS• inhibited Na2S‐induced vasoconstriction and activation of LTCCs. In conclusion, H2S causes vasoconstriction that is dependent on the activation of LTCCs and generation of HS• by oxyhemoglobin.
Long‐term soil change in the US Great Plains: An evaluation of the Haas Soil Archive
Authors: Liebig Mark A. , Calderon Francisco J. , Clemensen Andrea K. , Durso Lisa , Duttenhefner Jessica L. , Eberly Jed O. , Halvorson Jonathan J. , Jin Virginia L. , Mankin Kyle , Margenot Andrew J. , Stewart Catherine E. , Van Pelt Scott , Vigil Merle F.
Published: April 2024

Diverse patterns of climate and edaphic factors challenge detection of soil property change in the US Great Plains. Because detectable soil change can take decades, insights into the trajectory of soil properties frequently require long‐term site monitoring and, where available, associated soil archives to enable comparisons with initial or baseline states. Unfortunately, few multi‐decadal soil change investigations have been conducted in this region. Here, we document effects of dryland cropping on a suite of soil properties by comparing matched historic (1947) and contemporary (2018) soil samples from the Haas Soil Archive at three sites in the US Great Plains: Moccasin, MT, Akron, CO, and Big Spring, TX. Current analytical methods were used to provide insight into changes in soil texture, pH, carbon, and micronutrients at 0‐ to 15.2‐cm and 15.2‐ to 30.5‐cm depths. Changes in direction and magnitude of soil properties over 71 years were site specific. Changes in textural class occurred at all sites, with Moccasin and Akron transitioning from loam to clay loam and Big Spring from sandy clay loam to sandy loam. The soil pH reaction class changed from slightly alkaline to moderately acid at Akron and slightly alkaline to moderately alkaline at Big Spring. At 0–15.2 cm, soil organic carbon decreased by 15% and 36% at Moccasin and Big Spring, respectively, but increased by 15% at Akron. Soil micronutrients generally declined at all sites. Weather‐related variables derived from air temperature and precipitation records were not correlated with soil change. Inferred factors contributing to soil change included on‐site management, inherent soil features, weather metrics not evaluated, or a combination thereof.
Mechanical‐Force‐Induced Non‐spontaneous Dehalogenative Deuteration of Aromatic Iodides Enabled by Using Piezoelectric Materials as a Redox Catalyst
Authors: Qu Ruiling , Wan Shan , Zhang Xuemei , Wang Xiaohong , Xue Li , Wang Qingqing , Cheng Gui‐Juan , Dai Lunzhi , Lian Zhong
Published: April 2024

The development of green and efficient deuteration methods is of great significance for various fields such as organic synthesis, analytical chemistry, and medicinal chemistry. Herein, we have developed a dehalogenative deuteration strategy using piezoelectric materials as catalysts in a solid‐phase system under ball‐milling conditions. This non‐spontaneous reaction is induced by mechanical force. D2O can serve as both a deuterium source and an electron donor in the transformation, eliminating the need for additional stoichiometric exogenous reductants. A series of (hetero)aryl iodides can be transformed into deuterated products with high deuterium incorporation. This method not only effectively overcomes existing synthetic challenges but can also be used for deuterium labelling of drug molecules and derivatives. Bioactivity experiments with deuterated drug molecule suggest that the D‐ipriflavone enhances the inhibitory effects on osteoclast differentiation of BMDMs in vitro.
Sucrose‐Powered Liposome Nanosensors for Urinary Glucometer‐Based Monitoring of Cancer
Authors: Zhou Dongtao , Zhang Zhibin , Pan Liqing , Wang Yanyi , Yang Jingjing , Gao Yanfeng , Song Yujun
Published: April 2024

Timely detection of early‐stage cancer holds immense potential in enhancing prognostic outcomes. There is an increasing desire for versatile tools to enable simple, sensitive, and cost‐effective cancer detection. By exploiting the extraintestinal metabolic inertness and efficiency renal clearance of sucrose, we designed a liposome nanosensor using sucrose as a messenger to convert tumor‐specific esterase activity into glucose meter readout, enabling economical and sensitive urinalysis for cancer detection in point‐of‐care testing (POCT). Our results demonstrate that the nanosensors exhibited significant signal differences between tumor‐bearing and healthy mice in both orthotopic and metastatic tumor models. Additionally, efficient elimination of the nanosensors through the hepatobiliary pathway was observed with no significant toxicity. Such a non‐invasive diagnostic modality significantly assists in personalized pharmacological treatment and follow‐up efficacy assessment. We envision that this modular liposome nanosensor platform might be applied for economically detecting diverse diseases via a simple urinary test.
Metal Poly(heptazine imides) as Multifunctional Photocatalysts for Solar Fuel Production
Authors: Pelicano Christian Mark , Antonietti Markus
Published: April 2024

Solar‐driven photocatalysis employing particulate semiconductors represents a promising approach for sustainable production of valuable chemical feedstock. Metal poly(heptazine imide) (MPHI), a novel 2D ionic carbon nitride, has been recognized as an emerging photocatalyst with distinctive properties. In this minireview, we first delineate the forefront innovations of MPHI photocatalysts, spanning from synthetic strategies and solving structures to the exploration of novel properties. We place special emphasis on the structural design principles aimed at developing high‐performance MPHI systems toward photocatalytic solar fuel production such as H2 evolution, H2O oxidation, H2O2 production and CO2 reduction. Finally, we discuss crucial insights and challenges in leveraging highly active MPHIs for efficient solar‐to‐chemical energy conversion.