bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐Powered Biomimetic Pressure Sensor Based on Mn–Ag Electrochemical Reaction for Monitoring Rehabilitation Training of Athletes
Authors: Yang Ziyan , Wang Qingzhou , Yu Huixin , Xu Qing , Li Yuanyue , Cao Minghui , Dhakal Rajendra , Li Yang , Yao Zhao
Published: April 2024

Self‐powered pressure detection using smart wearable devices is the subject of intense research attention, which is intended to address the critical need for prolonged and uninterrupted operations. Current piezoelectric and triboelectric sensors well respond to dynamic stimuli while overlooking static stimuli. This study proposes a dual‐response potentiometric pressure sensor that responds to both dynamic and static stimuli. The proposed sensor utilizes interdigital electrodes with MnO2/carbon/polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) as the cathode and conductive silver paste as the anode. The electrolyte layer incorporates a mixed hydrogel of PVA and phosphoric acid. The optimized interdigital electrodes and sandpaper‐like microstructured surface of the hydrogel electrolyte contribute to enhanced performance by facilitating an increased contact area between the electrolyte and electrodes. The sensor features an open‐circuit voltage of 0.927 V, a short‐circuit current of 6 µA, a higher sensitivity of 14 mV/kPa, and outstanding cycling performance (>5000 cycles). It can accurately recognize letter writing and enable capacitor charging and LED lighting. Additionally, a data acquisition and display system employing the proposed sensor, which facilitates the monitoring of athletes’ rehabilitation training, and machine learning algorithms that effectively guide rehabilitation actions are presented. This study offers novel solutions for the future development of smart wearable devices.
Photoexcitation Altered Reaction Pathway Greatly Facilitate Ammonia Synthesis Over Isolated Ru Sites
Authors: Feng Chengyang , Raziq Fazal , Hu Miao , Huang Huawei , Wu Zhi‐Peng , Zuo Shouwei , Luo Jun , Ren Yuanfu , Chang Bin , Cha Dongkyu , Ayirala Subhash , Al‐Yousef Ali , Dao Thang Duy , Zhang Huabin
Published: April 2024

Ammonia, poised as a carbon‐neutral energy carrier, holds immense promise in reshaping the future energy landscape. Despite the enduring importance of the Haber–Bosch process in ammonia production, its substantial carbon emissions and energy demands necessitate more sustainable pathways. Here, an advanced ammonia synthesis route, enhanced by photoexcitation is demonstrated, which fundamentally modifies the activation pathways of N2 molecules. This alteration significantly lowers the reaction activation energy, resulting in remarkably improved reaction efficiency. The impact of light excitation culminates in an unprecedented ammonia synthesis rate of 18 mmol g−1 h−1, surpassing the traditional thermal catalytic process by 2.57‐fold. More importantly, light assistance reduces the thermal energy input by ≈16%, making it comparable to thermal catalysis while substantially improving energy utilization. This work introduces a greener strategy for ammonia synthesis, pushing the century‐old fossil‐fueled Haber–Bosch process to a new frontier.
In Situ Polymerization Inhibiting Electron Localization in Hybrid Electrolyte for Room‐Temperature Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Shen Chunli , Feng Wencong , Yu Yongkun , Wang Hanxiao , Cheng Yu , Dong Chenxu , Gu Jiapei , Zheng Aqian , Liao Xiaobin , Xu Xu , Mai Liqiang
Published: April 2024

Hybrid solid electrolytes (HSEs) have attracted much attention due to their advantages as both inorganic and organic polymer electrolytes. However, the organic/inorganic interfacial space charge layer has a great barrier to the transport of Li+ in the HSE. Here, an in situ polymerization layer is proposed on garnet‐type particles, working as the coherent region to eliminate the space charge layer at the organic/inorganic interfaces by inhibiting electron localization. The conjugate hybridization of fillers weakens the aggregation of particles, induces the dissociation of Li salt, and provides high‐throughput Li+ transport pathways at the ceramics/polymer interface. Furthermore, the continuous Li+ conduction networks are connected by the coherent region between inorganic fillers and polymer chains. The fabricated HSE exhibits a high ionic conductivity of 0.47 mS cm−1 and ion migration numbers of 0.78 at room temperature. The 3D Li//Li systematic battery assembled with the HSE delivers a high critical current density (CCD) of 2.0 mA cm−2. Meanwhile, the 4.5 V NCM811//Li batteries achieve a prolonged operation of 500 cycles at 0.5 C. The Li//LiFePO4 batteries demonstrate superior capacity retention of 96.4% at 1 C after 500 cycles.
Crystallographic Manipulation Strategies toward Reversible Zn Anode with Orientational Deposition
Authors: Yang Xianzhong , Dong Zixing , Weng Gao , Su Yiwen , Huang Jiawen , Chai Hong , Zhang Ying , Wu Kuan , Baek Jong‐Beom , Sun Jingyu , Chao Dongliang , Liu Huakun , Dou Shixue , Wu Chao
Published: April 2024

The reversibility and sustainability of Zn anode are greatly hampered by the dendrite growth and side reactions. Orientational deposition, which allows the assembly of Zn deposits in a highly ordered and compact manner, offers a solution to these issues by enabling dendrite‐free Zn anodes. Moreover, Zn orientational deposition can effectively inhibit side reaction by reducing the exposed surface area of the electrode. Despite significant progress in the field of Zn orientational deposition, there is still a lack of clear guidelines for regulating the orientation, and the underlying mechanisms remain rather elusive. Therefore, a comprehensive review is urgently needed to provide a mechanistic insight into Zn orientational deposition. This review summarizes the burgeoning strategies for steering Zn orientational deposition, categorizing the corresponding mechanisms into five aspects: heteroepitaxial deposition, homoepitaxial deposition, interfacial cultivation, crystal facet anchoring, and current density regulation. The distinct advantages and limitations of each mechanism in controlling the growth orientation are discussed in detail. Finally, the challenges and future trends pertaining to Zn orientational deposition are envisaged, aiming in essence to realize highly reversible Zn anodes and ultimately bridge the gap between reality and ideal in aqueous Zn‐ion batteries.
Manipulating noncovalent conformational lock via side‐chain engineering for luminescence at aggregate level
Authors: Lian Mingbing , Mu Yingxiao , Ye Zecong , Lu Ziying , Xiao Jingping , Zhang Jianyu , Ji Shaomin , Zhang Haoke , Huo Yanping , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: April 2024

The unfavorable photochemical processes at the molecular level have become a barrier limiting the use of aromatic amides as high‐performance luminescent materials. Herein, we propose a reliable strategy for manipulating noncovalent conformational lock (NCL) via side‐chain engineering to burst out eye‐catching luminescence at the aggregate level. Contrary to the invisible emission in dilute solutions, dyad OO with a three‐centered H‐bond gave the wondrous crystallization‐induced emission with a quantum yield of 66.8% and clusterization‐triggered emission, which were much brighter than those of isomers. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that crystallization‐induced planarized intramolecular charge transfer (PICT), conformation rigidification, and through‐space conjugation (TSC) are responsible for aggregate‐state luminescence. Robust NCL composed of intramolecular N‐H···O interactions could boost molecular rigidity and planarity, thus greatly facilitating PICT and TSC. This study would inspire researchers to design efficient luminescent materials at the aggregate level via rational conformational control.
Rethinking pathways to the dioecy–polyploidy association: Genera with many dioecious species have fewer polyploids
Authors: Osterman Wilhelm H. A. , Hill Adrian , Hagan James G. , Whitton Jeannette , Bacon Christine D. , Bjorkman Anne D.
Published: April 2024

Premise

Numerous studies have found a positive association between dioecy and polyploidy; however, this association presents a theoretical conflict: While polyploids are predicted to benefit from self‐reproduction for successful establishment, dioecious species cannot self‐reproduce. We propose a theoretical framework to resolve this apparent conflict. We hypothesize that the inability of dioecious species to self‐reproduce hinders their establishment as polyploids. We therefore expect that genera with many dioecious species have fewer polyploids, leading to a negative association between polyploidy and dioecy across genera.

Methods

We used three publicly available databases to determine ploidy and sexual systems for 131 genera and 546 species. We quantified (1) the relationship between the frequency of polyploid species and the frequency of dioecious species across genera, and (2) the proportion of polyploids with hermaphroditism and dioecy across species, adjusting for phylogenetic history.

Results

Across genera, we found a negative relationship between the proportion of polyploids and the proportion of dioecious species, a consistent trend across clades. Across all species, we found that sexual system (dioecious or not) was not associated with polyploidy.

Conclusions

Polyploids are rare in genera in which the majority of species are dioecious, consistent with the theory that self‐reproduction favors polyploid establishment. The low frequency of polyploidy among dioecious species indicates the association is not as widespread as previously suggested. Our findings are consistent with previous studies identifying a positive relationship between the two traits, but only if polyploidy promotes a transition to dioecy, and not the reverse.
The Role of Hydrogen Bonds in Thermally Responsive Crystallization‐Driven Template Autocatalysis
Authors: Wu Huimin , Chen Qing‐Xuan , Su Yang , Chen Zhen
Published: April 2024

Autocatalysis has been recognized to be involved in the emergence of life and intrinsic to biomolecular replication. Recently, an efficient template autocatalysis driven by solvent‐free crystallization has been reported. Herein, we unveil the role of intermolecular hydrogen bonds formed by amides in crystallization‐driven template autocatalysis (CDTA), which involves the autocatalytic activity, template selectivity, and thermal responsiveness. We found that the thermal‐induced cis‐trans isomerization of amides possibly affects the H‐bonding‐mediated template ability of products for autocatalytic transformation. As a result, CDTA can be reversibly inhibited and activated by tuning the reaction temperatures. Our work sheds light on the significance of noncovalent H‐bonding interactions in artificial self‐replicators.
Assembly of Glycopeptides in Living Cells Resembling Viral Infection for Cargo Delivery
Authors: Tian Feng , Guo Ruo‐Chen , Wu Chunxia , Liu Xin , Zhang Zeyu , Wang Yamei , Wang Hao , Li Gongyu , Yu Zhilin
Published: April 2024

Self‐assembly in living cells represents one versatile strategy for drug delivery; however, it suffers from the limited precision and efficiency. Inspired by viral traits, we here report a cascade targeting‐hydrolysis‐transformation (THT) assembly of glycosylated peptides in living cells holistically resembling viral infection for efficient cargo delivery and combined tumor therapy. We design a glycosylated peptide via incorporating a β‐galactose‐serine residue into bola‐amphiphilic sequences. Co‐assembling of the glycosylated peptide with two counterparts containing irinotecan (IRI) or ligand TSFAEYWNLLSP (PMI) results in formation of the glycosylated co‐assemblies SgVEIP, which target cancer cells via β‐galactose‐galectin‐1 association and undergo galactosidase‐induced morphological transformation. While GSH‐reduction causes release of IRI from the co‐assemblies, the PMI moieties release p53 and facilitate cell death via binding with protein MDM2. Cellular experiments show membrane targeting, endo‐/lysosome‐mediated internalization and in situ formation of nanofibers in cytoplasm by SgVEIP. This cascade THT process enables efficient delivery of IRI and PMI into cancer cells secreting Gal‐1 and overexpressing β‐galactosidase. In vivo studies illustrate enhanced tumor accumulation and retention of the glycosylated co‐assemblies, thereby suppressing tumor growth. Our findings demonstrate an in situ assembly strategy mimicking viral infection, thus providing a new route for drug delivery and cancer therapy in the future.
Mass capture fishing in the Marquesas Islands
Authors: Nims Reno , Pillay Patricia , Allen Melinda S.
Published: April 2024

Mass capture of small fishes with a variety of nets, traps, and weirs was widely practiced and economically important across East Polynesia at western contact. Archaeological research, however, has suggested these technologies were less important during the early settlement period and gained prominence over time. Several explanations have been proposed, including resource depression, changes in marine environments, and/or social and economic reorientations. In the Marquesas Islands, pelagic and offshore fishes were historically well represented in early assemblages relative to most Polynesian islands. Here we report on fishbone assemblages from Nuku Hiva Island that were recovered with fine mesh screens, identified using a wide range of skeletal elements, and analysed with morphometric methods. The Hakaea Beach results demonstrate that mass capture of small fishes was especially important at this locality and sustained over three early, successive occupations. These patterns may reflect the nature of the local fisheries, preferential use of high‐return capture strategies in this reef‐limited setting, and/or purposeful avoidance of ciguatera‐prone fishes and a preference for less vulnerable fishes. Overall, our findings highlight geographic variation in early Marquesan fisheries and provide archaeological evidence that mass capture technologies had an important place in the maritime toolkits of the earliest East Polynesian fishers.
Electrochemical Testing and Benchmarking of Compositionally Complex Lithium Argyrodite Electrolytes for All‐Solid‐State Battery Application
Authors: Du Jianxuan , Lin Jing , Zhang Ruizhuo , Wang Shuo , Indris Sylvio , Ehrenberg Helmut , Kondrakov Aleksandr , Brezesinski Torsten , Strauss Florian
Published: April 2024

Ceramic ion conductors play a pivotal role as electrolytes in solid‐state batteries (SSBs). Aside from the ionic conductivity, their (electro)chemical stability has a profound effect on the performance. Lithium thiophosphates represent a widely used class of superionic materials, yet they suffer from limited stability and are known to undergo interfacial degradation upon battery cycling. Knowledge of composition‐dependent properties is essential to improving upon the stability of thiophosphate solid electrolytes (SEs). In recent years, compositionally complex (multicomponent) and high‐entropy lithium argyrodite SEs have been reported, having room‐temperature ionic conductivities of σion>10 mS cm−1. In this work, various multi‐cationic and ‐anionic substituted argyrodite SEs are electrochemically tested via cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy, as well as under operating conditions in SSB cells with layered Ni‐rich oxide cathode and indium‐lithium anode. Cation substitution is found to negatively affect the electrochemical stability, while anion substitution (introducing Cl−/Br− and increasing halide content) has a beneficial effect on the cyclability, especially at high current rates.
The tone of buyer firms' annual reports and suppliers' green innovation: The spillover effects in the supply chain
Authors: Yang Yang , Xiao Zheng , Gong Yu , al Humdan Eias
Published: April 2024

Grounded in signaling theory, this study explores the effect of the tone of buyer firms' annual reports on suppliers' green innovation and investigates the factors influencing such spillover effects. We use a panel data regression method to analyze 748 paired buyer–supplier firm‐year observations of Chinese listed manufacturing firms from 2010 to 2020. We demonstrate that the tone of buyers' annual reports promotes suppliers' green innovation, showing a spillover effect on the supply chain. Furthermore, the signal strength and effectiveness may be affected by the signal environment. Specifically, buyers' power over suppliers (supply chain environment) and suppliers' industry competition (industry environment) positively moderate the spillover effects of green innovation. This study enriches signaling theory and contributes to the growing literature on green innovation in supply chain management and also provides significant implications for managers.
Anodic Reactions in Alkaline Hybrid Water Electrolyzers: Activity versus Selectivity
Authors: van Lieshout Floris , Morales Dulce M.
Published: April 2024

Affordable and abundant sources of green hydrogen can give a large impetus to the Energy Transition. While conventional water electrolysis has positioned itself as a prospective candidate for this purpose, it lacks cost competitiveness. Hybrid water electrolysis (HWE) has been praised for its ability to address the issues of conventional water electrolysis due to its decreased energy requirements and its ability to generate value‐added products, among other advantages. In this perspective, we discuss the challenges related to the applicability of HWE, using the glycerol oxidation reaction as an example, and we identify pitfalls often found in the literature. Reported catalysts, especially those based on abundant materials, suffer from a severe selectivity‐activity tradeoff, hampering their industrial applicability due to large costs associated with product separation and purification. Additionally, testing electrocatalysts under conditions that are relevant for their applications is encouraged, yet these conditions are largely unknown, as in‐depth knowledge of the catalytic mechanisms is largely missing. Lastly, an opportunity to increase the amount of interdisciplinary research concerning both the engineering requirements and financial performance of HWE is discussed. Increased focus on these objectives may boost the development of HWE on an industrial scale.
Hepatic Dysfunction Quantified by HepQuant DuO Outperforms Child‐Pugh Classification in Predicting the Pharmacokinetics of Ampreloxetine
Authors: Kanodia Jitendra , Giovinazzo Hugh , Yates Wayne , Bourdet David L. , McRae Michael P. , Helmke Steve M. , Everson Gregory T.
Published: April 2024

HepQuant tests quantify liver function from clearance of deuterium‐ and 13C‐labeled cholates administered either intravenously and orally (SHUNT) or orally (DuO). Hepatic impairment studies have relied on clinical or laboratory criteria like Child‐Pugh classification to categorize the degree of hepatic dysfunction. We compared HepQuant tests with Child‐Pugh classification in predicting the pharmacokinetics of ampreloxetine. Twenty‐one subjects with hepatic impairment (8 Child‐Pugh A, 7 Child‐Pugh B, and 6 Child‐Pugh C), and 10 age‐ and sex‐matched controls were studied. The pharmacokinetics of ampreloxetine were measured after oral administration of a single dose of 10 mg. Disease severity index (DSI), portal‐systemic shunting (SHUNT%), hepatic reserve, and hepatic filtration rates (HFRs) were measured from serum samples obtained after intravenous administration of [24‐13C]‐cholate and oral administration of [2,2,4,4‐2H]cholate. Ampreloxetine plasma exposure (AUC0‐inf) was similar to controls in Child‐Pugh A, increased 1.7‐fold in subjects with Child‐Pugh B, and 2.5‐fold in subjects with Child‐Pugh C and correlated with both Child‐Pugh score and HepQuant parameters. The variability observed in ampreloxetine exposure (AUC0‐inf) in subjects with moderate (Child‐Pugh B) and severe hepatic impairment (Child‐Pugh C) was explained by HepQuant parameters. Multivariable regression models demonstrated that DSI, SHUNT%, and Hepatic Reserve from SHUNT and DuO were superior predictors of ampreloxetine exposure (AUC0‐inf) compared to Child‐Pugh score. HepQuant DSI, SHUNT%, and hepatic reserve were more useful predictors of drug exposure than Child‐Pugh class for ampreloxetine and thus may better optimize dose recommendations in patients with liver disease. The simple‐to‐administer, oral‐only DuO version of the HepQuant test could enhance clinical utility.
Corporate governance and corporate carbon disclosures: The moderating role of earnings management
Authors: Khuong Nguyen Vinh , Tai Vu Tran Trong , Thao Nguyen Thi Phuong , Tuan Pham Minh , Dung Tran Tuan , Khanh Vo Tuong
Published: April 2024

This research aims to explore the relationship between corporate governance (CG) and carbon disclosure (CD) and the moderating role of earnings management (EM) in this relationship. The model was built based on legitimacy theory, upper echelons theory, and agency theory. We employed a two‐step generalized method of moments (GMM) regression and conducted robust tests to reaffirm the results using panel data from 134 listed companies in the Vietnamese stock market from 2015 to 2022. Our findings indicate that larger board sizes, boards with more independent members or the presence of a CEO who concurrently serves as the chairman of the board can potentially decrease the likelihood of CD, while companies with a higher proportion of female board members or regular board meetings may tend to publish more carbon information. Furthermore, EM can moderate the relationship between CG and CD, and this variable exhibits high reliability in the model. This research adds to the vast body of existing knowledge about the effectiveness of CG by investigating how different dimensions of CG affect corporate CDs in Vietnam, especially, to the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first research attempting to provide the empirical result of the moderating role of EM in the relationship between CG and corporate CDs.
Exploring cytologic features and potential diagnostic challenges of metastatic NUT carcinoma to the parotid gland: A case report and a comprehensive literature review
Authors: Li Crystal Y. , Salihoglu Salih , Civantos Francisco J. , Velez Torres Jaylou M.
Published: April 2024

NUT carcinoma (NC) is a highly aggressive, poorly differentiated carcinoma that harbors a t(15:19) translocation, leading to the fusion of the NUTM1 gene. While the upper aerodigestive tract along the midline (head, neck, thorax, and mediastinum) is commonly reported as the primary site of NC, subsequent cases have emerged in diverse locations. Achieving a definitive diagnosis based solely on morphology is challenging; however, it can be achieved using immunohistochemistry (IHC) specific to the NUT antibody or by demonstrating the characteristic BRD4::NUTM1 fusion. Accurate and timely diagnosis can potentially inform patient management and guide treatment. While histologic documentation of NC is commonly found, there is a limited description of its cytologic features. A 39‐year‐old male with a history of sinonasal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) presented with a right parotid mass aspirated via fine needle aspiration cytology (FNA). Histologic examination of the previous sinonasal pathology reviewed at our institution revealed sheets of primitive‐appearing, monotonous, undifferentiated cells with distinct, prominent nucleoli. Additionally, there were foci of abrupt keratinization, accompanied by a notable neutrophilic infiltrate. The initial diagnosis of SCC was reclassified to NC and confirmed through NUT IHC and molecular testing. Although the parotid FNA initially suggested the possibility of a variety of small round blue cell tumors, it exhibited morphological similarities to the sinonasal tumor, leading to the diagnosis of metastatic NC. Cytomorphologic features of NC are limited and can overlap with various small round blue cell tumors. Correct classification is especially pivotal in the era of targeted therapy, considering the ongoing development and evaluation of BET inhibitors targeting BRD4.
A method for noninvasive individual genotyping of black‐footed cat (Felis nigripes)
Authors: Siziba Vimbai I. , Schroeder Michelle M. , Wilson Beryl , Sliwa Alexander , Willows‐Munro Sandi
Published: April 2024

The black‐footed cat (Felis nigripes) is endemic to the arid regions of southern Africa. One of the world's smallest wild felids, the species occurs at low densities and is secretive and elusive, which makes ecological studies difficult. Genetic data could provide key information such as estimates on population size, sex ratios, and genetic diversity. In this study, we test if microsatellite loci can be successfully amplified from scat samples that could be noninvasively collected from the field. Using 21 blood and scat samples collected from the same individuals, we statistically tested whether nine microsatellites previously designed for use in domestic cats can be used to identify individual black‐footed cats. Genotypes recovered from blood and scat samples were compared to assess loss of heterozygosity, allele dropout, and false alleles resulting from DNA degradation or PCR inhibitors present in scat samples. The microsatellite markers were also used to identify individuals from scats collected in the field that were not linked to any blood samples. All nine microsatellites used in this study were amplified successfully and were polymorphic. Microsatellite loci were found to have sufficient discriminatory power to distinguish individuals and identify clones. In conclusion, these molecular markers can be used to monitor populations of wild black‐footed cats noninvasively. The genetic data will be able to contribute important information that may be used to guide future conservation initiatives.
Evapotranspiration partitioning through water stable isotopic measurements in a subtropical coniferous forest
Authors: Xing Wanqiu , Wang Weiguang , Cai Yue , Yu Zhongbo , Shao Quanxi , Cao Xin , Cao Mingzhu , Yang Lilin , Yong Bin
Published: April 2024

Evapotranspiration (ET) partitioning distinguishes the soil evaporation (E) and plant transpiration (T) components and is crucial for understanding the land‐atmosphere interactions and ecosystem water budget. However, the mechanism and controls of ET partitioning for subtropical forests in heterogeneous environments remain poorly understood. Here, we present δ18O and δ2H of about 1,527 isotope samples including atmospheric water, soil and plant water during different seasons in 2 years of 2020–2021 from a coniferous forest across Southeast China. We used the isotopic mass balance of ecosystem water pools, the Craig‐Gordon model and the Keeling‐Plot method to partition T from ET (T/ET) and quantify the controls on T/ET. Results indicated that the uncertainty in the T/ET was principally from the soil water evaporation (δE) value, about 20–30 cm was found to be a reasonable evaporating front depth for estimating δE in this coniferous forest. T/ET presented a “U” shape diurnal pattern and varied from 66.7% to 89.9%. Isotope‐based T/ET in autumn with high temperatures and little rain was higher than those in the summer and winter seasons. Relative humidity (or vapour pressure deficit) dominated the diurnal T/ET variations (relative contributions of > 40%) in summer and autumn, while air temperature and soil water content were the main controls in winter. Our study also showed that δ18O‐derived T/ET was consistent with that of δ2H, although δ2H was found to be more stable in ET partitioning, the dual stable isotope approach should be employed in future studies for the uncertainties brought by samplings or measurements. The agreement between the isotope‐based T/ET and ET partitioning approach that uses eddy covariance and sap flux data was stronger at midday. These isotope‐inferred ET partitioning can inform land surface models and provide more insights into water management in subtropical forests.
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection induces thymic atrophy mediated by IFN‐γ in hACE2 transgenic mice
Authors: Rizvi Zaigham Abbas , Sadhu Srikanth , Dandotiya Jyotsna , Sharma Puja , Binayke Akshay , Singh Virendra , Das Vinayaka , Khatri Ritika , Kumar Rajesh , Samal Sweety , Kalia Manjula , Awasthi Amit
Published: April 2024

Pathogenic infections cause thymic atrophy, perturb thymic T‐cell development, and alter immunological response. Previous studies reported dysregulated T‐cell function and lymphopenia in coronavirus disease‐19 (COVID‐19). However, immunopathological changes in the thymus associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection have not been elucidated. Here, we report that SARS‐CoV‐2 infects thymocytes, and induces CD4+CD8+ (double positive; DP) T‐cell apoptosis leading to thymic atrophy and loss of peripheral TCR repertoire in K18‐hACE2 transgenic mice. Infected thymus led to increased CD44+CD25− T‐cells, indicating an early arrest in the T‐cell maturation pathway. Thymic atrophy was notably higher in male hACE2‐Tg mice than in females and involved an upregulated de‐novo synthesis pathway of thymic glucocorticoid. Further, IFN‐γ was crucial for thymic atrophy, as anti‐IFN‐γ ‐antibody neutralization blunted thymic involution. Therapeutic use of Remdesivir also rescued thymic atrophy. While the Omicron variant and its sub‐lineage BA.5 variant caused marginal thymic atrophy, the delta variant of SARS‐CoV‐2 exhibited severe thymic atrophy characterized by severely depleted DP T‐cells. Recently characterized broadly SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralizing monoclonal antibody P4A2 was able to rescue thymic atrophy and restore the thymic maturation pathway of T‐cells. Together, we report SARS‐CoV‐2‐associated thymic atrophy resulting from impaired T‐cell maturation pathway which may contribute to dyregulated T cell response during COVID‐19.
A Bidirectional T‐Shaped Energy Harvester: Modeling, Simulation, and Experiment
Authors: Jiang Wen‐An , Sheng Long‐Jie , Gu Ye‐Tong , Bi Qin‐Sheng , Chen Li‐Qun
Published: April 2024

Piezoelectric cantilever beams are broadly implemented in energy harvesting. However, simple cantilever‐shaped harvesters are mostly unimodal. Herein, a T‐shaped cantilever beam harvester that can have a bimodal amplitude–frequency curve is developed. The modal of the system is designed in COMSOL finite‐element software and the dynamic behavior is carried out using the finite element simulation. Then, validation experiments are used to estimate the results of finite‐element analysis and it is concluded that the simulation results are in good agreement with the experimental data. Furthermore, the frequency response curves are plotted for various system parameters so as to discuss the influence of these parameters on the bandwidth of the harvester. It is found that there is an optimal resistance that can obtain the P = 2.87 mW maximum power. Finally, theoretical modeling is established and exact analytical solutions are derived, and the comparisons of theoretical, numerical, and experimental results are implemented. It is found that the results of these three methods are consistent. In addition, all of these predictions show that the bidirectional coupling induces the bandwidth increases.
Chrysanthemum‐Flowers‐Like Bimetal Oxide Based Electrocatalyst for Methanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Ullah Nabi , Guziejewski Dariusz , Koszelska Kamila , Smarzewska Sylwia , Małecka Magdalena , Ranoszek‐Soliwoda Katarzyna , Grobelny Jarosław
Published: April 2024

Transition metal oxides have garnered attention for the methanol electro‐oxidation reaction owing to their easy availability, high catalytic applicability, and multiple oxidation capabilities. Bimetal‐based catalysts further enhance the performance of the methanol oxidation reaction. In this context, a chrysanthemum‐flower‐like MoO2/WO3 is synthesized through a solvothermal and annealing strategy. The morphology attests to the rough surface and pores in the catalyst, augmenting its surface area for reactions and enhancing catalytic applicability. Electrochemical oxidation of methanol yields an optimal current density of 0.99 mA cm−2 and 2.07 mA mg−1 at a potential of 0.57 V versus Ag/AgCl. The catalyst exhibits a remarkably low Tafel slope of 37.45 mV dec−1, affirming its rapid reaction kinetics. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) reveals an equivalent electronic circuit of R(Q(R(QR)Q(RW))), confirming low charge transfer resistance (Rct) and diffusion‐controlled kinetics attributable to the pores in the sample. The sample also demonstrates an electrochemically active surface area (ECSA) value equal to 0.122 mF cm−2 and long‐term stability over continuous 5000 s, exhibiting no change and high resistance to CO poisoning. All these characterizations and obtained results collectively affirm that the chrysanthemum‐flower‐like MoO2/WO3 serves as a highly suitable electrocatalyst for the electrochemical oxidation of methanol.
Differences in sediment provenance from rainfall and snowmelt erosion in the Mollisol region of Northeast China
Authors: Su Lin , Huang Donghao , Zhou Lili
Published: April 2024

Differences in erosion patterns inevitably lead to different soil loss processes. However, the differences in sediment sources between rainfall and snowmelt erosion are not well studied. To address this gap, a study was conducted in a small agricultural catchment (3.5 km2) using the fingerprinting technique to quantify the various sources contributing to sediment, as well as determine the magnitude of sediment total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total potassium (TK) and soil organic matter (SOM) loads from three sources (cultivated land, unpaved roads and gullies) during the rainy season and spring thawing period. Sediment sources from 17 rainfall erosion and seven snowmelt erosion events of varying magnitudes were compared. The Collins and Bayesian mixing models, coupled with geochemical tracers (Cs, V, Cd, Pb and Ag), were applied to assess the contribution proportion of individual sediment sources to suspended sediment. According to the results obtained from the Bayesian mixing model with higher accuracy, cultivated land, unpaved roads and gullies contributed 60.3% (load‐weighted mean contribution [LMC] = 82.8%), 11.0% (LMC = 6.5%) and 28.7% (LMC = 10.7%) of the sediment in the rainy season, respectively. Cultivated land was the dominant sediment source for rainfall erosion, with high rainfall erosivity and sediment concentration. However, for snowmelt erosion, gullies were the primary sediment source (LMC = 66.2%), followed by cultivated land (LMC = 19.8%) and unpaved roads (load‐weighted = 14.0%). Meanwhile, in the spring thawing period, the contributions of unpaved roads to sediment were higher than in the rainy season. During the rainy season, the greatest contributions of TN, TP, TK and SOM were observed from cultivated land, with respective LMC values of 94.2%, 89.4%, 81.1% and 94.8%. With the increase of sediment contribution from gullies in the spring thawing period, its LMC of TN, TP, TK and SOM increased to 42.6%, 58.3%, 65.0% and 38.0%, respectively. The results of the study could be useful for understanding the processes of soil erosion, clarifying the driving mechanism of compound erosion, developing the compound erosion prediction model and optimizing the spatial configuration of erosion control measures.
Science fiction in military planning—Case allied command transformation and visions of warfare 2036
Authors: Hiltunen Elina , Huhtinen Aki‐Mauri
Published: April 2024

This article focuses on using science fiction for military purposes to anticipate the future of warfare and presents a new tool for creating military science fiction. As technology is a significant driver in the future of warfare, science fiction has increased its popularity for military purposes. Armies and defense organizations have begun utilizing science fiction to anticipate and prepare for future wars. Examples can be found in Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Australia, and NATO. Even though military sci‐fi is on the rise, there is a lack of a more profound analysis of the sci‐fi narratives of the military and its foundations. Allied Command Transformation's, (NATO's Strategic Warfare Development Command) report called Visions of Warfare 2036 (2016) exhibits an example of military‐based science fiction employed to anticipate and get prepared for the future of warfare. It includes 12 narratives of the future of warfare varying from gene‐manipulated soldiers to AI‐generated warfare. By analyzing the report qualitatively using the Atlas.ti program and manual methods, the basic elements of the stories were identified. One of the findings of the analysis was that the stories were somewhat similar to each other. To create more diverse military science fiction scenarios, a new tool: the Military Science Fiction Scenario Card was created. This tool can be used in practical work when thinking about the war of the future and in particular the role of technology in it. It can also be seen as a new tool in the field of futures research.
Semantic context‐dependent neural representations of odors in the human piriform cortex revealed by 7T MRI
Authors: Okumura Toshiki , Kida Ikuhiro , Yokoi Atsushi , Nakai Tomoya , Nishimoto Shinji , Touhara Kazushige , Okamoto Masako
Published: April 2024

Olfactory perception depends not only on olfactory inputs but also on semantic context. Although multi‐voxel activity patterns of the piriform cortex, a part of the primary olfactory cortex, have been shown to represent odor perception, it remains unclear whether semantic contexts modulate odor representation in this region. Here, we investigated whether multi‐voxel activity patterns in the piriform cortex change when semantic context modulates odor perception and, if so, whether the modulated areas communicate with brain regions involved in semantic and memory processing beyond the piriform cortex. We also explored regional differences within the piriform cortex, which are influenced by olfactory input and semantic context. We used 2 × 2 combinations of word labels and odorants that were perceived as congruent and measured piriform activity with a 1‐mm isotropic resolution using 7T MRI. We found that identical odorants labeled with different words were perceived differently. This labeling effect was observed in multi‐voxel activity patterns in the piriform cortex, as the searchlight decoding analysis distinguished identical odors with different labels for half of the examined stimulus pairs. Significant functional connectivity was observed between parts of the piriform cortex that were modulated by labels and regions associated with semantic and memory processing. While the piriform multi‐voxel patterns evoked by different olfactory inputs were also distinguishable, the decoding accuracy was significant for only one stimulus pair, preventing definitive conclusions regarding the locational differences between areas influenced by word labels and olfactory inputs. These results suggest that multi‐voxel patterns of piriform activity can be modulated by semantic context, possibly due to communication between the piriform cortex and the semantic and memory regions.
Current approaches in smart nano‐inspired drug delivery: A narrative review
Authors: Boppana Sri Harsha , Kutikuppala L. V. Simhachalam , Sharma Sushil , C Madhavrao , Rangari Gaurav , Misra Arup Kumar , Kandi Venkataramana , Mishra Snehasish , Singh Puneet Kumar , Rabaan Ali A. , Mohapatra Ranjan K. , Kudrat‐E‐Zahan Md.
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

The traditional drug delivery approach involves systemic administration of a drug that could be nonspecific in targeting, low on efficacy, and with severe side‐effects. To address such challenges, the field of smart drug delivery has emerged aiming at designing and developing delivery systems that can target specific cells, tissues, and organs and have minimal off‐target side‐effects.

Methods

A literature search was done to collate papers and reports about the currently available various strategies for smart nano‐inspired drug delivery. The databases searched were PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar. Based on selection criteria, the most pertinent and recent items were included.

Results

Smart drug delivery is a cutting‐edge revolutionary intervention in modern medicines to ensure effective and safe administration of therapeutics to target sites. These hold great promise for targeted and controlled delivery of therapeutic agents to improve the efficacy with reduced side‐effects as compared to the conventional drug delivery approaches. Current smart drug delivery approaches include nanoparticles, liposomes, micelles, and hydrogels, each with its own advantages and limitations. The success of these delivery systems lies in engineering and designing them, and optimizing their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics properties.

Conclusion

Development of drug delivery systems that can get beyond various physiological and clinical barriers, as observed in conventionally administered chemotherapeutics, has been possible through recent advancements. Using multifunctional targeting methodologies, smart drug delivery tries to localize therapy to the target location, reduces cytotoxicity, and improves the therapeutic index. Rapid advancements in research and development in smart drug delivery provide wider and more promising avenues to guarantee a better healthcare system, improve patient outcomes, and achieve higher levels of effective medical interventions like personalized medicine.
The association between vulvodynia and interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome: A systematic review
Authors: Bosio Sara , Perossini Silvia , Torella Marco , Braga Andrea , Salvatore Stefano , Serati Maurizio , Frigerio Matteo , Manodoro Stefano
Published: April 2024

Background

Vulvodynia (VVD) is a debilitating chronic vulvar pain significantly affecting patients' quality of life. Interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic and complex illness characterized by an unpleasant sensation related to the filling of the bladder and it strongly impacts patients' lives. The exact mechanisms of the two syndromes remain unknown, but there is an overlap between suspected pathophysiologies.

Objective

To present an overview of the current research on the association between VVD and IC/BPS.

Search Strategy

A systematic search of three electronic databases was conducted. Studies examining the correlation between VVD and IC/BPS with male and female patients aged over 18 years were included.

Selection Criteria

Studies assessing the coexistence of VVD and IC/BPS were included. Reviews, letters to the editor, conference abstracts, book chapters, guidelines, Cochrane reviews, and expert opinions were excluded.

Data Collection and Analysis

Two reviewers screened the studies for eligibility. Eligible studies were screened for quality.

Main Results

A total of 13 studies were included in the final review. Among them, 11 presented a positive association between the two syndromes. The studies highlighted that VVD and IC/BPS share common comorbidities and possibly etiopathogenic pathways.

Conclusion

VVD and IC/BPS are both complex and multifactorial syndromes. This review highlights an association between them, but additional studies on the topic should be conducted for a more precise conclusion.
Sexually transmitted infections: Prevalence and clinical outcomes among pregnant women in Western Sydney
Authors: Ju I. , Elhindi J. , Hook M. , Melov S. J. , Sawleshwarkar S. , Yapa H. M. , Zablotska I. , Pasupathy D.
Published: April 2024

Objective

We report the prevalence, characteristics and clinical outcomes of women with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in pregnancy in the Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) serving a large culturally and socio‐economically diverse community in New South Wales (NSW), Australia, over the last 10 years.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study of all pregnant women booked for antenatal care at three hospitals in WSLHD between September 2012 and August 2022 inclusive. Characteristics and birth outcomes associated with STIs diagnosed in pregnancy (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) are reported using multivariable logistic regression adjusting for relevant confounders.

Results

During 2012–2022, there were 102 905 births and 451 women (0.44%) with an STI diagnosis during pregnancy. The number of women with a history of chlamydia prior to their current pregnancy has increased over the last 10 years (P < 0.001). STIs in pregnancy were more common in younger women aged <20 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 7.30, 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.04–10.57), 20–24 years (aOR 3.12, 95% CI 2.46–3.96), and >40 years (adj OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.07–2.59), in women with body mass index >30 (aOR 1.73, 95%CI 1.37–2.19), and those who smoked (aOR 2.24, 95% CI 1.71–2.94) and consumed alcohol (aOR 3.14, 95% CI 1.88–5.23) and illicit drugs (aOR 2.10, 95% CI 1.31–3.36). STIs in pregnancy were borderline associated with stillbirth (aOR 2.19 95% CI 0.90–5.36) but did not have a significant impact on preterm birth (aOR 1.21, 95% CI 0.87–1.68), admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (aOR 1.02, 95% CI 0.77–1.34), or having a small‐for‐gestational‐age (SGA) baby (aOR 0.97, 95% CI 0.74–1.27).

Conclusions

Sociodemographic factors such as age, weight, smoking, and alcohol and drug use, were associated with the STI incidence in pregnancy. While the latter did not have an impact on preterm birth, NICU admission, and SGA in our cohort, there was a borderline association with stillbirth. Future research should identify barriers and facilitators to testing in a multicultural population and understanding the drivers of higher rates of STIs in certain population groups.
Performance evaluation of a microbial fuel cell for resource recovery as struvite and bioelectricity generation from slaughterhouse wastewater
Authors: Chandrasekharan Sreelakshmi , Sathiasivan Kiruthika , Ramaswamy Jeyalakshmi
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

The microbial fuel cell (MFC) is a potential cost‐effective technology for the energy‐neutral treatment of wastewater. However, the successful implementation of this technology in resource recovery is still limited. In this study, a microbial electrochemical cell was designed and operated for 30 days. Critical factors for removal and recovery of nitrogen and phosphorus as struvite from wastewater were assessed.

RESULTS

Optimization studies on critical factors such as the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of wastewater (500–2000 mg L−1) and cathode aeration rate (45–135 mL min−1) were conducted using a pure culture of Escherichia coli. The system yielded an average power density of 465 mW m−2, average current density of 915 mA m−2 and phosphorus recovery at an extent of 40% as struvite. Additionally, a maximum reduction in the COD of 90% with an average coulombic efficiency of about 82% was obtained at a short interval of 30 days. Solubility studies of the recovered struvite for 12 h at different pH values from 4.5 to 9 showed a maximum solubility of 80% at pH 4.5 and a minimum of 3.5% at pH 9.

CONCLUSION

This study moves one step closer to applying MFC technology for nitrogen‐ and phosphorus‐rich wastewater treatment with concurrent struvite precipitation and electricity production. In this way, Sustainable Development Goals 2, 6 and 7 can be achieved through resource recovery, clean water and bioenergy. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).