bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Re-evaluation of the Retention Time Prediction “Polarity” Model in the Context of the Development of a Stationary Phase Variable
Authors: Karpiński Adam , Mikiciuk-Olasik Elżbieta , Szymański Paweł
Published: July 2014

The Abraham–Carr retention time prediction model was reviewed and developed in the context of the introduction of a new stationary phase variable. The new variable consists of a binary mixture dielectric constant and a stationary phase descriptor that was derived from the Snyder–Dolan column descriptors theory. In this work, data reported by Torres–Lapasio were investigated (in-silico) in the context of the linearity behavior of the Abraham–Carr theorem logk = ƒ(PNm). This proposed model has been replaced by several experiments that have shown that the stationary phase constant PNS, which is represented by a variable, does not require laboratory experiments. The new model, which contains stationary and mobile phase variables, shows an improved correlation for the majority of the Torres–Lapasio compounds between logk and ΔPN (mobile and stationary phase variables expression). The discussion regarding the model's behavior in the presence of secondary interactions led to research using a polar column and “bulky” compounds as reported by Szymański. Newly developed tacrine 4-fluorobenzoic acid derivatives, potential drugs in Alzheimer's disease treatment, are homologs and were found problematic to separate using regular C18 sorbent. The obtained results show that in the range of 30–70% acetonitrile, a single retention model using Agilent Zorbax SB-cyano sorbent is present, which is confirmed by two investigated models (R2 > 0.95).
Immunomagnetic Separation and Visual Fluorescence Detection of Salmonella spp., Using AOAC Approved SASTM Molecular Tests
Authors: Bapanpally Chandra , Maganty Gayatri , Khan Shah , Kasra Akif , Morey Amit
Published: July 2014

The SASTM Molecular Tests method for detection of Salmonella spp. in various food matrixes has been certified by the AOAC Research Institute and designated Performance Tested MethodSM No. 021202. The current method modification includes the optional immunomagnetic separation (IMS) to enrich the bacteria as well as optional visual fluorescence readout without the use of a turbidimeter. The modifications were validated against the U.S. Department of Agriculture/Food Safety and Inspection Service Microbiology Laboratory Guidebook (MLG) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Bacteriological Analytical Manual (BAM) reference methods. Food matrixes (chicken carcass rinse, beef trim, and spinach) were inoculated with low levels of Salmonella spp. (0.2–2 CFU/test portion) to generate fractional positives (5–15) in 20 inoculated samples. Samples were enriched with SAS Enrichment medium and incubated at 42 ± 1°C. Enrichments were tested directly and subjected to anti-Salmonella IMS prior to the SAS Molecular Tests. Results were determined via visual fluorescence and via turbidity using a turbidimeter. All replicates were confirmed using the MLG or BAM reference method procedures, regardless of presumptive result. The SAS Molecular Tests Salmonella Detection modified methods were determined to be equivalent to the reference methods for the detection of Salmonella in chicken carcass rinse, beef trim, and fresh spinach. The inclusion of IMS in the modified method improved the detection rate of Salmonella in chicken carcass rinses and spinach. The optional use of visual fluorescent reagent and heat block either with IMS or without IMS produced results that were comparable to the results obtained from using a real-time turbidimeter.
Removal of Reprogramming Transgenes Improves the Tissue Reconstitution Potential of Keratinocytes Generated From Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Igawa Ken , Kokubu Chikara , Yusa Kosuke , Horie Kyoji , Yoshimura Yasuhide , Yamauchi Kaori , Suemori Hirofumi , Yokozeki Hiroo , Toyoda Masashi , Kiyokawa Nobutaka , Okita Hajime , Miyagawa Yoshitaka , Akutsu Hidenori , Umezawa Akihiro , Katayama Ichiro , Takeda Junji
Published: July 2014

Human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) lines have a great potential for therapeutics because customized cells and organs can be induced from such cells. Assessment of the residual reprogramming factors after the generation of hiPSC lines is required, but an ideal system has been lacking. Here, we generated hiPSC lines from normal human dermal fibroblasts with piggyBac transposon bearing reprogramming transgenes followed by removal of the transposon by the transposase. Under this condition, we compared the phenotypes of transgene-residual and -free hiPSCs of the same genetic background. The transgene-residual hiPSCs, in which the transcription levels of the reprogramming transgenes were eventually suppressed, were quite similar to the transgene-free hiPSCs in a pluripotent state. However, after differentiation into keratinocytes, clear differences were observed. Morphological, functional, and molecular analyses including single-cell gene expression profiling revealed that keratinocytes from transgene-free hiPSC lines were more similar to normal human keratinocytes than those from transgene-residual hiPSC lines, which may be partly explained by reactivation of residual transgenes upon induction of keratinocyte differentiation. These results suggest that transgene-free hiPSC lines should be chosen for therapeutic purposes.
Son organisé, partition sonore, ordre musical : la pensée et la pratique cinématographiques d’Edgard Varèse et de Michel Fano
Authors: Dallaire Frédéric
Published: July 2014

Cet article suit le développement d’une sensibilité musicale au cinéma à travers les écrits et les oeuvres d’Edgard Varèse et de Michel Fano. Varèse pose les bases d’un nouveau paradigme en décrivant les transformations de la musique au contact des images et en inscrivant les sons dans le dispositif « d’enregistrement/montage/diffusion cinématographique ». Les notions de son organisé et de partition sonore sont pour lui les outils qui permettent de penser et de travailler la musicalité filmique. À partir des années 60, Fano s’inspire des idées de Varèse et les éprouve en composant plusieurs partitions sonores (notamment pour les films d’Alain Robbe-Grillet). En intégrant tous les sons (parole, bruit, musique) dans sa démarche musicale, le compositeur produit une écoute et une conscience singulière de la musique au cinéma : les sons (et les images) se divisent en formants, et le compositeur met en relation ces éléments afin de produire des affects musicaux et signifiants. Les notions de continuum sonore, d’ordre musical et de formant dynamisent et enrichissent alors le champ compositionnel imaginé par Varèse. En définitive, la réflexion sur le son organisé au cinéma a pour fondement le processus de construction réciproque du dispositif sonore, de la pensée compositionnelle cinématographique et des formes esthétiques. Le compositeur travaille à la surface d’un plan continu, la partition sonore, dont il doit façonner les matériaux et organiser les interactions. Le compositeur met en relation les sons et érige un « réseau », un « carrefour », un complexe audio-visuel constitué de formants. Cet espace sonore processuel fait de tensions, de consonances, de dissonances, de confrontations énergétiques et sémantiques modifie durablement notre façon de penser la musique au cinéma.
Serials and Satisfaction
Authors: O’Sullivan Sean
Published: July 2014

The idea of “satisfaction” privileges narratives that seek to fulfill a promise of wholeness or containment. Such an idea runs counter to the gapped, partial, and suspended work of serial narrative. This essay considers the perils of satisfaction as a goal or byproduct of seriality, examining how serials in practice—from Middlemarch and Great Expectations to Lost and Mad Men—theorize and complicate our sense of resolved conclusion, and how they articulate the ungovernable excess of energy and possibility that serials, at their most narratively engaged, inevitably generate.
In Treatment with George Eliot
Authors: Bernstein Susan David
Published: July 2014

While the psychoanalytic concept of transference is often the analytic crux of the interactions of the consulting-room, its structure also illuminates what transpires for readers and viewers of serial narratives. InScenes of Clerical Life, Middlemarch,andIn Treatment,the serial form prompts the back-and-forthness of transference and countertransference, much like our own fluctuating engagements between world and fiction. Ultimately this essay argues that the power of Victorian realism lies in its capacity to generate transference.
Social Media Use by the US Federal Government at the End of the 2012 Presidential Term
Authors: Rabina Debbie , Cocciolo Anthony , Peet Lisa
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study is to describe in quantitative and qualitative terms the use of social media by the US government. During the autumn of 2012 the researchers collected and examined over 1,500 unique social media sites used by the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. This data was collected as part of a national web archiving initiative known as the End of Term Harvest, where US government websites are web archived in anticipation of changes prompted by the election. We found that social media is used heavily across all federal agencies and that they utilize a variety of social media platforms, with the most popular being Facebook, Twitter, You Tube and Flickr. The qualitative examination revealed that agencies use social media to provide the public with information and to engage the public in conversation through the feedback and comment mechanisms enabled by the social media providers. However, we did not find evidence that social media is enabling high levels of collaboration between government and citizens, which was a goal stated in Obama's Transparency Memorandum.
Laser ablation of Dbx1 neurons in the pre-Bötzinger complex stops inspiratory rhythm and impairs output in neonatal mice
Authors: Wang Xueying , Hayes John A , Revill Ann L , Song Hanbing , Kottick Andrew , Vann Nikolas C , LaMar M Drew , Picardo Maria Cristina D , Akins Victoria T , Funk Gregory D , Del Negro Christopher A
Published: July 2014

To understand the neural origins of rhythmic behavior one must characterize the central pattern generator circuit and quantify the population size needed to sustain functionality. Breathing-related interneurons of the brainstem pre-Bötzinger complex (preBötC) that putatively comprise the core respiratory rhythm generator in mammals are derived from Dbx1-expressing precursors. Here, we show that selective photonic destruction of Dbx1 preBötC neurons in neonatal mouse slices impairs respiratory rhythm but surprisingly also the magnitude of motor output; respiratory hypoglossal nerve discharge decreased and its frequency steadily diminished until rhythm stopped irreversibly after 85±20 (mean ± SEM) cellular ablations, which corresponds to ∼15% of the estimated population. These results demonstrate that a single canonical interneuron class generates respiratory rhythm and contributes in a premotor capacity, whereas these functions are normally attributed to discrete populations. We also establish quantitative cellular parameters that govern network viability, which may have ramifications for respiratory pathology in disease states.
Assessments of prostate cancer cell functions highlight differences between a pan‐PI3K/mTOR inhibitor, gedatolisib, and single‐node inhibitors of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway
Authors: Sen Adrish , Khan Salmaan , Rossetti Stefano , Broege Aaron , MacNeil Ian , DeLaForest Ann , Molden Jhomary , Davis Laura , Iversrud Charles , Seibel Megan , Kopher Ross , Schulz Stephen , Laing Lance
Published: August 2024

Metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is characterized by loss of androgen receptor (AR) sensitivity and oncogenic activation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR (PAM) pathway. Loss of the PI3K regulator PTEN is frequent during prostate cancer (PC) initiation, progression, and therapeutic resistance. Co‐targeting the PAM/AR pathways is a promising mCRPC treatment strategy but is hampered by reciprocal negative feedback inhibition or feedback relief. Most PAM inhibitors selectively spare (or weakly inhibit) one or more key nodes of the PAM pathway, potentiating drug resistance depending on the PAM pathway mutation status of patients. We posited that gedatolisib, a uniformly potent inhibitor of all class I PI3K isoforms, as well as mTORC1 and mTORC2, would be more effective than inhibitors targeting single PAM pathway nodes in PC cells. Using a combination of functional and metabolic assays, we evaluated a panel of PC cell lines with different PTEN/PIK3CA status for their sensitivity to multi‐node PAM inhibitors (PI3K/mTOR: gedatolisib, samotolisib) and single‐node PAM inhibitors (PI3Kα: alpelisib; AKT: capivasertib; mTOR: everolimus). Gedatolisib induced anti‐proliferative and cytotoxic effects with greater potency and efficacy relative to the other PAM inhibitors, independent of PTEN/PIK3CA status. The superior effects of gedatolisib were likely associated with more effective inhibition of critical PAM‐controlled cell functions, including cell cycle, survival, protein synthesis, oxygen consumption rate, and glycolysis. Our results indicate that potent and simultaneous blockade of all class I PI3K isoforms, mTORC1, and mTORC2 could circumvent PTEN‐dependent resistance. Gedatolisib, as a single agent and in combination with other therapies, reported promising preliminary efficacy and safety in various solid tumor types. Gedatolisib is currently being evaluated in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in combination with darolutamide in patients with mCRPC previously treated with an AR inhibitor, and in a Phase 3 clinical trial in combination with palbociclib and fulvestrant in patients with HR+/HER2− advanced breast cancer.
AMP‐dependent kinase stimulates the expression of αKlotho
Authors: Vogt Julia , Wolf Lisa , Hoelzle Ludwig E. , Feger Martina , Föller Michael
Published: August 2024

Renal αKlotho along with fibroblast growth factor 23 regulates phosphate and vitamin D metabolism. Its cleavage yields soluble Klotho controlling intracellular processes. αKlotho has anti‐inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is nephro‐ and cardioprotective. AMP‐dependent kinase (AMPK) is a nephro‐ and cardioprotective energy sensor. Given that both αKlotho and AMPK have beneficial effects in similar organs, we studied whether AMPK regulates αKlotho gene expression in Madin–Darby canine kidney, normal rat kidney 52E, and human kidney 2 cells. Using quantitative real‐time PCR and western blotting, we measured αKlotho expression upon pharmacological manipulation or siRNA‐mediated knockdown of AMPKα. AMPK activator 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide ribonucleoside (AICAR) enhanced αKlotho expression, an effect reduced in the presence of AMPK inhibitor compound C or siRNA targeting AMPK catalytic α‐subunits (α1 and α2). Similarly, AMPK activators metformin and phenformin upregulated αKlotho transcripts. Taken together, our results suggest that AMPK is a powerful inducer of αKlotho and could thereby contribute to the development of future therapeutic interventions.
Advances in Advanced In Situ Assembled Composite Electrode Materials for Enhanced Solid Oxide Cell Performance
Authors: Song Yufei , Song Yixiao , Wang Yuhao , Tian Yunfeng , Li Jingwei , Xu Meigui , Shao Zongping , Ciucci Francesco
Published: August 2024

Solid oxide cells (SOCs) hold considerable promise as devices for efficient, reversible conversion between chemical and electrical energy, facilitating a global shift toward renewable energy. Electrode performance is critical for SOC efficiency and durability and composite materials are key to developing high‐performance electrode catalysts. However, conventional mechanical mixing and infiltration methods often lead to large particle sizes, uneven distribution, and weak interfacial interactions, thus limiting electrochemical activity and longevity. Recent advancements have produced powerful new strategies for creating composite materials. These include metal exsolution and oxide segregation for fuel electrodes and one‐pot synthesis, segregation, phase reaction, and dynamic cation exchange for air electrodes. These techniques yield highly active, uniform nano‐catalysts and robust multi–phase interfacial contacts, significantly improving electrochemical activity and durability. This work reviews these advanced strategies and their applications in SOCs. It provides valuable insights for designing and optimizing SOC catalyst materials, accelerating the development of this vital energy conversion technology.
Electrocapillarity‐Induced Hurricane‐in‐a‐Tube Enables the Generation and Patterning of Liquid Metal Droplets
Authors: Song Chunlei , Tao Xianzan , Chen Yicheng , Mao Kaihao , Tao Ye , Ge Zhenyou , Wen Hongyan , Chen Gaofeng , Li Biao , Xue Rui , Jiang Xikai , Zheng Xu , Ren Yukun
Published: August 2024

Room‐temperature liquid metal droplets (LMDs) are a promising material for various applications in soft robotics, active droplets, and biomedical devices. However, controllable and high‐throughput production of LMDs remains challenging due to their high surface tension and density. Here, a novel strategy is presented to produce LMDs by combining electric field‐induced electrocapillary flow with an external flow field. The basic mechanism is that the electrocapillary flow induced at the LMD/electrolyte interface forms a vortex ring in the electrolyte, creating a hurricane‐like effect in the tube, which in turn causes the liquid metal to deform and eventually pinch off into small droplets. It is demonstrated that droplet size and generation frequency can be controlled precisely by adjusting the applied electric current, flow rate, and surfactant concentration, establishing a relationship between radius and experimental parameters through dimensionless analysis. More importantly, this strategy can handle pendant droplets and facilitate programmable droplet patterning. Leveraging established relationships, flexible control over droplet size and spacing during patterning is attained. Furthermore, an iontronic pressure‐sensitive device based on LMDs and hydrogel is developed to showcase the versatility of the approach. This technique opens up new opportunities for fabricating soft circuits, composite materials, and other functional devices with LMDs.
Atomic‐Thin 2D Copper Sulfide Nanocrystals with over 94% Photothermal Conversion Efficiency as Superior NIR‐II Photoacoustic Agents
Authors: Su Mengyao , Wu Zhujun , Yan Tingjun , Li Naiqing , Li Xinyuan , Hou Tailei , Liu Jia , Zhang Chunhuan , Zhu Cheng , Wang Zhimin , Zhang Jiatao
Published: August 2024

Exploring photothermal nanomaterials is essential for new energy and biomedical applications; however, preparing materials with intense absorption, highly efficient light‐to‐heat conversion, and enhanced photostability still faces the enduring challenge. Herein, the study synthesizes atomic‐thin (≈1.6 nm) 2D copper sulfide (AT‐CuS) plasmonic nanocrystals and find its extraordinary photothermal conversion efficiency (PCE) reaching up to 94.3% at the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) window. Photophysical mechanism studies reveal that the strong localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) and out‐of‐plane size effect of AT‐CuS induce strong optical absorption and non‐equilibrium carrier scattering, resulting in a significant carrier‐phonon coupling (7.18 × 1017 J K−1 s−1 m−3), ultimately enhancing the heat generation. Such a photothermal nanomaterial demonstrates at leastmes stronger NIR‐II photoacoustic (PA) signal intensity than that of most commonly used miniature gold nanorods, together with greater biocompatibility and photo‐/thermal‐stability, enabling noninvasive PA imaging of brain microvascular in living animals. This work provides an insight into the rational exploration of superb NIR‐II photothermal and photoacoustic agents for future practical utilizations.
Highly Stable Liquid Metal‐Based Electronic Textiles by Adaptive Interfacial Interactions
Authors: Cao Chunyan , Su Hang , Ai Liqing , Lv Dong , Gu Jing , Li Ruiqing , Li Dawei , Zhang Wei , Ge Mingzheng , Yao Xi
Published: August 2024

Gallium‐based liquid metals with outstanding electrical conductivity and fluidity are widely used in wearable electronics for wireless communication, human–machine interaction, and smart textiles. However, their fluidity makes them easily leak from the embedded conductive circuits under repeatable stretching, mechanical damage, or exposure to acidic and alkaline environments, limiting their reliability in practical use. Here, highly stable LM–polymer composites are shown with the ability to endure significant mechanical or chemical stresses, maintaining low resistance changes (R/R0 = 3.3 and 2.4) after 10 times of standard washing and 24 h of storage in corrosive solutions. The use of fluoropolymer, providing robust interfacial binding with the gallium oxide layer, effectively serves as a barrier layer to withstand mechanical and chemical damage through the synergistic effect of adaptive dipole–dipole interactions among composites and enhanced hydrophobicity. The as‐prepared composites can be readily hot pressed onto commercial fabrics to develop electronic textiles with outstanding conductivity (10214 S m−1), high air permeability (148.6 mm s−1), and moisture permeability (30.3 g m−2). Taking advantage of their excellent stability and permeability, e‐textiles are demonstrated as washable thermal therapy patches and skin‐interfaced electrodes for epidermal biopotential recording.
A Cascade Jet Plasma Oxidation─electroreduction System Using Pd‐Ni Dual‐Site Catalyst for Sustainable Ammonia Production from Air
Authors: Ding Jun , Li Wenyi , Zhang Heng , Tang Shu , Mao Zhixian , Zhang Shengbo , Jin Meng , Lin Qifu , Zhang Yunxia , Wang Guozhong , Zhang Haimin
Published: August 2024

Electrocatalytic N2 reduction reaction (eNRR) has been deemed as an alternative approach to the Haber‐Bosch (H‐B) process for ammonia (NH3) production, but it remains a huge challenge. Here jet plasma oxidation of N2 is reported in air into NOx and subsequently NO2− coupling with electrochemical NO2− reduction reaction (pN2─eNO2−RR) over PdNi alloying nanoparticles on N‐doped carbon nanotubes (PdNi/N‐CNTs) for NH3 synthesis. The results demonstrate that the jet plasma reactor possesses excellent gas reforming capacity to achieve the largest NO2− yield rate of 30.46 mmol h−1 with a low energy consumption of 2.66 kWh molN−1. For subsequent eNO2−RR, PdNi/N‐CNTs can afford an NH3 yield of 34.96 mg h−1 mgcat.−1 and a faradaic efficiency (FE) of 98.21% at −0.38 and 0.02 V (vs RHE), respectively. In situ spectroscopic characterizations combined with theoretical calculations unveil that PdNi/N‐CNTs provide Pd and Ni dual active sites, enabling NO2− activation on the Ni site and active H* provision on the Pd site to facilitate eNO2−RR. A cascade pN2‐eNO2−RR system is constructed for sustainable NH3 production, achieving a stable NH3 yield rate of 25.56 mmol h−1, an average FE >85%, as well as NOx to NH3 conversion efficiency of 44.62% at constant ampere‐level current with finally collection of gram‐level (NH4) 2SO4 product.
Unraveling Anomalies in Preferential Liquid Transport through the Intrinsic Pores of Cyclodextrin in Polyester Nanofilms
Authors: Puhan Manas Ranjan , Sarkar Pulak , R Amal , Nagendraprasad Gunolla , Reddy K. Anki , Sutariya Bhaumik , Karan Santanu
Published: August 2024

The precise manipulation of the porous structure of the nanofiltration membrane is critical for unlocking enhanced separation efficiencies across various liquids and solutes. Ultrathin films of crosslinked macrocycles, specifically cyclodextrins (CDs), have drawn considerable attention in this area owing to their ability to facilitate precise molecular separation with high liquid permeance for both polar and non‐polar liquids, resembling Janus membranes. However, the functional role of the intrinsic cavity of CD in liquid transport remains inadequately understood, demanding immediate attention in designing nanofiltration membranes. Here, the synthesis of polyester nanofilms derived from crosslinked β‐CD, demonstrating remarkable Na2SO4 rejection (≈92 – 99.5%), high water permeance (≈4.4 – 37.4 Lm−2h−1bar−1), extremely low hexane permeance (<1 Lm−2h−1bar−1), and extremely high ratio (α > 500) of permeances for polar and non‐polar liquids, is reported. Molecular simulations support the findings, indicating that neither the polar nor the non‐polar liquids flow through the β‐CD cavity in the nanofilm. Instead, liquid transport predominantly occurs through the 2.2 nm hydrophilic aggregate pores. This challenges the presumed functional role of macrocyclic cavities in liquid transport and raises questions about the existence of the Janus structure in nanofiltration membranes produced from the macrocyclic monomers.
Direct Identification of O─O Bond Formation Through Three‐Step Oxidation During Water Splitting by Operando Soft X‐ray Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Huang Yu‐Cheng , Wu Yujie , Lu Ying‐Rui , Chen Jeng‐Lung , Lin Hong‐Ji , Chen Chien‐Te , Chen Chi‐Liang , Jing Chao , Zhou Jing , Zhang Linjuan , Wang Yanyong , Chou Wu‐Ching , Wang Shuangyin , Hu Zhiwei , Dong Chung‐Li
Published: August 2024

Anionic redox allows the direct formation of O─O bonds from lattice oxygens and provides higher catalytic in the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) than does the conventional metal ion mechanism. While previous theories have predicted and experiments have suggested the possible O─O bond, it has not yet been directly observed in the OER process. In this study, operando soft X‐ray absorption spectroscopy (sXAS) at the O K‐edge and the operando Raman spectra is performed on layered double CoFe hydroxides (LDHs) after intercalation with [Cr(C2O4)3]3−, and revealed a three‐step oxidation process, staring from Co2+ to Co3+, further to Co4+ (3d6L), and ultimately leading to the formation of O─O bonds and O2 evolution above a threshold voltage (1.4 V). In contrast, a gradual oxidation of Fe is observed in CoFe LDHs. The OER activity exhibits a significant enhancement, with the overpotential decreasing from 300 to 248 mV at 10 mA cm−2, following the intercalation of [Cr(C2O4)3]3− into CoFe LDHs, underscoring a crucial role of anionic redox in facilitating water splitting.
Electrolyte Engineering of Quasi‐Solid‐State Thermocells for Low‐Grade Heat Harvest at Sub‐Zero Temperatures
Authors: Liu Zhaopeng , Hu Yifeng , Lu Xin , Mo Ziwei , Chen Guangming , Liu Zhuoxin
Published: August 2024

The pursuit of sustainable energy technologies has led to considerable interest in waste heat harvest from various energy sources. Thermocells (TECs), using the thermogalvanic effect, hold high potential in converting low‐grade heat directly into electricity. Optimizing thermopower and ensuring adaptability in low or sub‐zero temperature conditions are crucial for the advancement of next‐generation TECs. To address these challenges, in this work, a composite hydrogel electrolyte incorporating ethylene glycol (EG) and Ti3C2Tx MXene nanosheets is rationally engineered. EG boosts thermopower by increasing solvation entropy change and concentration ratio difference of redox ions; it also prevents freezing by disrupting hydrogen bonds among water molecules. Meanwhile, hydrophilic MXene nanosheets facilitate gelation process, improve mechanical strength, and further bond to water molecules to enhance anti‐freezing and moisture‐retaining capabilities. The TECs fabricated on this composite hydrogel electrolyte exhibit a notably increased thermopower of 2.04 mV K−1 and can be continuously operated at sub‐zero temperatures down to −40 °C. Electricity‐generating TEC windows are further demonstrated to harvest all‐day low‐grade heat via utilizing the temperature difference between the indoor and the outdoor. This study proposes an electrolyte engineering strategy for long‐lasting and reliable TECs that are suitable for low‐grade heat harvesting in extreme low‐temperature conditions.
Chronic myeloid leukemia: 2025 update on diagnosis, therapy, and monitoring
Authors: Jabbour Elias , Kantarjian Hagop
Published: August 2024

Disease overview

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) is a myeloproliferative neoplasm with an annual incidence of two cases/100 000. It accounts for approximately 15% of newly diagnosed cases of leukemia in adults.

Diagnosis

CML is characterized by a balanced genetic translocation, t(9;22) (q34;q11.2), involving a fusion of the Abelson murine leukemia (ABL1) gene from chromosome 9q34 with the breakpoint cluster region (BCR) gene on chromosome 22q11.2. This rearrangement is known as the Philadelphia chromosome. The molecular consequence of this translocation is the generation of a BCR::ABL1 fusion oncogene, which in turn translates into a BCR::ABL1 oncoprotein.

Frontline therapy

Four tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), imatinib, dasatinib, bosutinib, and nilotinib, are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for first‐line treatment of newly diagnosed CML in the chronic phase (CML‐CP). Clinical trials with second and third‐generation TKIs in frontline CML‐CP therapy reported significantly deeper and faster responses but had no impact on survival prolongation, likely because of their potent efficacy and the availability of effective TKIs salvage therapies for patients who have a cytogenetic relapse with frontline TKI therapy. All four TKIs are equivalent if the aim of therapy is to improve survival. In younger patients with high‐risk disease and in whom the aim of therapy is to induce a treatment‐free remission status, second‐generation TKIs may be favored.

Salvage therapy

For CML post‐failure on frontline therapy, second‐line options include second and third‐generation TKIs. Although potent and selective, these TKIs exhibit unique pharmacological profiles and response patterns relative to different patient and disease characteristics, such as patients' comorbidities and financial status, disease stage, and BCR::ABL1 mutational status. Patients who develop the T315I “gatekeeper” mutation display resistance to all currently available TKIs except ponatinib, asciminib, and olverembatinib. Allogeneic stem cell transplantation remains an important therapeutic option for patients with CML‐CP and failure (due to resistance) of at least two TKIs and for all patients in advanced‐phase disease. Older patients who have a cytogenetic relapse post‐failure on all TKIs can maintain long‐term survival if they continue a daily most effective/least toxic TKI, with or without the addition of non‐TKI anti‐CML agents (hydroxyurea, omacetaxine, azacitidine, decitabine, cytarabine, and others).
Ultrafast and Coherent Dynamics in a Solvent Switchable “Pink Box” Perylene Diimide Dimer
Authors: Bressan Giovanni , Penty Samuel E. , Green Dale , Heisler Ismael A. , Jones Garth A. , Barendt Timothy A. , Meech Stephen R.
Published: August 2024

Perylene diimide (PDI) dimers and higher aggregates are key components in organic molecular photonics and photovoltaic devices, supporting singlet fission and symmetry breaking charge separation. Detailed understanding of their excited states is thus important. This has proven challenging because interchromophoric coupling is a strong function of dimer architecture. Recently, a macrocyclic PDI dimer was reported in which excitonic coupling could be turned on and off simply by changing the solvent. This presents a useful case where coupling is modified without synthetic changes to tune supramolecular structure. Here we present a detailed study of solvent dependent excited state dynamics in this dimer by means of coherent multidimensional spectroscopy. Spectral analysis resolves the different coupling strengths, which are consistent with solvent dependent changes in dimer conformation. The strongly coupled conformer forms an excimer within 300 fs. The low‐frequency Raman active modes recovered from two‐dimensional electronic spectra reveal frequencies characteristic of exciton coupling. These are assigned to modes modulating the coupling from the corresponding DFT calculations. Further analysis reveals a time dependent frequency during excimer formation. Analysis of two‐dimensional “beatmaps” reveals features in the coupled dimer which are not predicted by the displaced harmonic oscillator model and are assigned to vibronic coupling.
An idea to explore: A systematic approach for solving plasmid double‐digest puzzles
Authors: Callahan Aurora , Smith Todd
Published: August 2024

A common exercise given to students early in a molecular biology course is the creation of a restriction map of a plasmid “digested” by two restriction enzymes (RE). Meanwhile, students have learned from an early age about the properties and analyses of circles in their mathematics courses. But it is rare for students to learn using puzzle‐based assignments at the intersection of molecular biology and mathematics. Therefore, we should present students with a puzzle that allows them to combine knowledge and skills from these seemingly disconnected disciplines. Here, we present a method for analyzing RE digests of circular plasmids using basic geometric principles.
Exploring serum amino acid signatures as potential biomarkers in Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients
Authors: Temiz Ebru , Akmese Sukru , Koyuncu Ismail , Barut Dursun
Published: August 2024

Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is an autoimmune disease caused by the immune system attacking healthy tissues. However, the exact pathogenesis of HT remains unclear. Metabolomic analysis was performed to obtain information about the possible pathogenic mechanisms and diagnostic biomarkers of HT. The amino acid profile was analyzed using an LC–MS/MS method using serum samples obtained from 30 patients diagnosed with ultrasonographic imaging and laboratory markers (thyroid stimulating hormone) free thyroxine and thyroid peroxidase) and 30 healthy individuals. There were statistically significant changes in 27 amino acids out of 32 amino acids analyzed (p < 0.05). Based on the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the six amino acid (1‐methylhistidine, cystine, norvaline, histidine, glutamic acid and leucine) biomarkers showed high sensitivity, specificity (area under the curve > 0.98), positive likelihood ratio and low negative likelihood ratio. Also, according to pathway analysis, degradation of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis was the highest metabolic pathway according to the impact value (p < 0.001 and impact value = 1.0). We provide serum amino acid profiles of patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and identify five potential biomarkers for early diagnosis by clinicians.
Sustainable governance of natural gas exploration: A coastal forest ecosystem perspective
Authors: Bungwa Zainabu Shabani , Yanda Pius Zebhe , Lyimo James
Published: August 2024

Coastal forest ecosystems can benefit from an empirical study of the sustainable governance of natural gas exploration. But, policymakers and practitioners cannot make informed decisions in the absence of thorough and comprehensive research. This study examines empirical research on the sustainable governance of natural gas exploration within the coastal forest ecosystem, identifies research gaps and outlines future directions. Researchers utilised the theories, context, characteristics, and methodologies (TCCM) analysis in the systematic narrative review of nine studies. The study findings revealed that sustainable governance of natural gas exploration to lessen coastal forest ecological consequences is questionable since most of the study indicated negative impacts on coastal forests. Furthermore, the study findings contributed by identifying the most prominent theories, such as economic theory and efficient taxation, which are thought to maximise long‐term economic benefits while minimising the degradation of forest ecosystems. Natural gas exploration‐related taxes have the potential to support conservation initiatives and coastal forest ecosystem restoration. Furthermore, the study acknowledges that most studies do not have guidelines for evaluating the concepts of sustainable governance. Moreover, the research suggests the need for sustainable governance that strikes a balance between the goals of natural gas development and the protection of coastal forest ecosystems, enacts laws and regulations that promote good governance towards the Green House Gases protocol, and sets up monitoring and control mechanisms. Furthermore, the government should provide incentives, such as research grants, to encourage research and dissemination, as well as sustainable management techniques for natural gas extraction and coastal forest ecosystem management and conservation.
Investigation of the Physiological and Post‐training Effects of Ecdysteroid Supplementation by Multivariate Analysis of the Human Serum Metabolome
Authors: Leogrande Patrizia , Jardines Daniel , Brito Dayamin Martinez , de la Torre Xavier , Botrè Francesco , Luch Andreas , Diel Patrick , Parr Maria Kristina
Published: August 2024

This work aims to characterize the serum profile of athletes after the administration of ecdysteroids, natural steroid hormones recently reported to enhance athletic performance. The combination of mass spectrometry and chemometric tools may allow to differentiate physiological effects from post‐training and intake‐driven effects. Serum samples were collected from 46 healthy male volunteers and divided into four groups: control (two capsules/day of Peak Ecdysone without training), placebo (two capsules without ecdysteroids with training), Ec1 (two capsules/day Peak Ecdysone with training), and Ec2 (eight capsules/day Peak Ecdysone with training). Metabolic profiling was measured using a SCIEX Triple Quadrupole LC‐MS/MS system coupled with the Biocrates AbsoluteIDQ p180 kit, which allows quantitation of a large panel of metabolites that were subjected to multivariate analysis. Unsupervised analysis of the data found no significant differences between the placebo and the ecdysteroid supplementation groups. By merging Ec1 and Ec2 into a single group, coded as treated, a clear discrimination between the control and placebo groups was observed. Phosphatidylcholines were among the most significant features of ecdysteroids administration, showing a dose‐dependent effect in Ec1 and Ec2 groups. As specific metabolic phenotypes can result from years of training, the discrimination of physiological effects from those caused by the administration of banned substances can be a valuable analytical strategy for the interpretation of adverse analytical findings in the anti‐doping field.
Datenaustausch der Zukunft
Authors: Riester Michael
Published: August 2024

Durch den Einsatz digitaler Technologien hat die Chemieindustrie in den vergangenen Jahren bereits erhebliche Fortschritte erzielt: Anlagen wurden optimiert, die Produktion gesteigert und Kosten gesenkt. Was aber noch fehlt, ist eine einheitliche digitale Ökosystem‐Infrastruktur. Hier kommen standardisierte digitale Zwillinge ins Spiel, die physische und digitale Welt miteinander verknüpfen und die Simulation, Überwachung und Optimierung von Prozessen in bisher unerreichter Präzision ermöglichen. Bislang sind digitale Zwillinge jedoch noch nicht standardisiert – das muss sich ändern.
Riding the populist wave: How does populism affect firm's innovation?
Authors: Xiong Yu Man , Jiménez Alfredo , Bayraktar Secil , Choi Seong‐jin
Published: August 2024

Uncertainty caused by environmental disruptions and unexpected institutional changes critically affect R&D and innovation systems. Motivated by the recent rise of populist political parties worldwide, this study investigates the influence of country‐level populism on firm‐level innovation. Building on institutional theory, we find evidence that higher levels of populism impairs firms' innovation performance by generating institutional volatility. Moreover, this relationship weakens when a firm exports more, and strengthens when a firm is located in a right‐leaning country. We find empirical support for our hypotheses drawing on data from the Global Populism Database and the World Bank Enterprise Survey (24,375 firms from 38 countries). Our findings provide new insights for corporate strategy and R&D activities in unstable and disruptive political contexts.
Smart cross‐layer approach to multi‐access terrestrial and non‐terrestrial networks (NTNs): Real‐time mobile‐health use case
Authors: Elhachi Hana , Boumehrez Farouk , Aymen Labiod Mohamed , Redadaa Salah , Mellouk Abdelhamid
Published: August 2024

Delivering health care services in isolated rural regions through vehicular communications has recently attracted more attention. Real‐time video streaming is one of the most commonly used applications in such services. Escorting this increasing interest, there is a high demand for high‐quality streaming video in vehicular environments. However, these services face challenging network characteristics such as high dynamic topology and mobility, leading to high packet loss and degraded visual quality. This paper presents a smart approach to multi‐access terrestrial and non‐terrestrial networks (NTNs) for high‐quality and real‐time video streaming in vehicular environments to enhance healthcare services in remote areas. The proposed approach integrates a mobile telemedicine unit connected to an expert site through different channels, including satellite communication, 5 Generation (5G), and long‐term evolution (LTE) networks. A modified multipath QUIC extension (MPQUIC) was introduced to stream data hybridly through the network. Furthermore, multiple description coding (MDC) was applied to split data into two different descriptions and prioritize one over the other. Important data would be transmitted through cellular networks, and non‐priority data would be transmitted through satellite links, enhancing the reliability of video transmission. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach through the use of a connected ambulance as a case study. The Mininet‐Wifi was used to emulate network conditions. The peak signal‐to‐noise ratio (PSNR), structural SIMilarity (SSIM), and video multimethod assessment fusion (VMAF) were measured to evaluate the received video quality; the received data rate and packet loss were also calculated. The obtained results show our proposed method's efficiency by reducing latency by up to 60% and improving the receiving data rate by up to 143% compared with the classical MPQUIC. The proposed system enhances video quality by up to 70%. It minimizes packet loss by up to 50% compared with the unreliable QUIC, showcasing the potential to improve m‐health services' efficiency and mobility in isolated rural regions.
Brandt's vole (Lasiopodomys brandtii) affects the dominant position of three gramineous species by altering defense traits and interspecific competition
Authors: Xie Yanjin , Hua Yongle , Zhang Jiading , Wei Wanhong , Yin Baofa
Published: August 2024

Rodents can cause considerable changes in plant community composition. However, relationships between shifts in species dominance and plant functional traits caused by rodents have seldom been investigated, especially for belowground functional traits. In this study, a set of enclosures was constructed to analyze the effects of 10 years of Brandt's voles' activities on the defense strategies and dominant position changes of three gramineous plants (Leymus chinensis, Stipa krylovii, and Cleistogenes squarrosa) in Inner Mongolia. Here, we measured the dominance, biomass, and fourteen functional traits of three plants. The effects of Brandt's voles on dominance, biomass, and functional traits were analyzed, and then we explored the effect of functional traits on plant dominance by using the structural equation model. Results showed that long‐term feeding by Brandt's voles resulted in a significant decrease in the dominance of L. chinensis and S. krylovii, whereas C. squarrosa was positively affected. The belowground biomass of L. chinensis and S. krylovii was higher in the vole treatment, which showed that they were increasing their escape characteristics. The leaf thickness of L. chinensis and the leaf C:N ratio of S. krylovii significantly increased, while the specific leaf area of C. squarrosa significantly decreased. All three gramineous showed increased resistance traits in response to Brandt's voles, which positively affected their dominance. Tolerance‐related traits of S. krylovii significantly increased, with the increasing growth rate of root length contributing to enhancing its dominance. We highlight that selective feeding by rodents led to the selection of different defense strategies by three gramineous plants, and that changes in biomass allocation and functional traits in the different species affected plant dominance, driving changes in the plant communities.
Integration of the landscape of fear concept in grassland management: An experimental study on subtropical monsoon grasslands in Bardia National Park, Nepal
Authors: Thapa Shyam Kumar , de Jong Joost F. , Hof Anouschka R. , Subedi Naresh , Liefting Yorick , Prins Herbert H. T.
Published: August 2024

The ‘landscape of fear’ concept offers valuable insights into wildlife behaviour, yet its practical integration into habitat management for conservation remains underexplored. In this study, conducted in the subtropical monsoon grasslands of Bardia National Park, Nepal, we aimed to bridge this gap through a multi‐year, landscape‐scale experimental investigation in Bardia National Park, Nepal. The park has the highest density of tigers (with an estimated density of ~7 individuals per 100 km2) in Nepal, allowing us to understand the effect of habitat management on predation risk and resource availability especially for three cervid species: chital (Axis axis), swamp deer (Rucervus duvaucelii) and hog deer (Axis porcinus). We used plots with varying mowing frequency (0–4 times per year), size (ranging from small: 49 m2 to large: 3600 m2) and artificial fertilisation type (none, phosphorus, nitrogen) to assess the trade‐offs between probable predation risk and resources for these cervid species, which constitute primary prey for tigers in Nepal. Our results showed distinct responses of these deer to perceived predation risk within grassland habitats. Notably, these deer exhibited heightened use of larger plots, indicative of a perceived sense of safety, as evidenced by the higher occurrence of pellet groups in the larger plots (mean = 0.1 pellet groups m−2 in 3600 m2 plots vs. 0.07 in 400 m2 and 0.05 in 49 m2 plots). Furthermore, the level of use by the deer was significantly higher in larger plots that received mowing and fertilisation treatments compared to smaller plots subjected to similar treatments. Of particular interest is the observation that chital and swamp deer exhibited greater utilisation of the centre (core) areas within the larger plots (mean = 0.21 pellet groups m−2 at the centre vs. 0.13 at the edge) despite the edge (periphery) also provided attractive resources to these deer. In contrast, hog deer did not display any discernible reaction to the experimental treatments, suggesting potential species‐specific variations in response to perceived predation risk arising from management interventions. Our findings emphasise the importance of a sense of security as a primary determinant of habitat selection for medium‐sized deer within managed grassland environments. These insights carry practical implications for park managers, providing a nuanced understanding of integrating the ‘landscape of fear’ into habitat management strategies. This study emphasises that the ‘landscape of fear’ concept can and should be integrated into habitat management to maintain delicate predator–prey dynamics within ecosystems.