bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Les miraculés a bierność edukacyjna i zawodowa młodych mieszkańców wsi – case study Polska i kraje UE = Les miraculés versus educationally and economically inactive young inhabitants of rural areas – case study of Poland and EU
Authors: Mijal Anna
Published: August 2019

The level of education as a component of competence may play an important role in determining the chances of social and material success, as well as raising the living standards, forming conditions for economic growth. This finds its reflection in the EU strategic documents, which lays the foundations for opening a public debate. It is commonly accepted that the level of education stands behind the heritage and thus, a significant role is played by the parents’ educational lifelines. Population inhabiting rural areas is presented in the subject literature as a community usually more inclined towards ending their education as early as possible and displaying professional passivity. The aim of the article is to identify the scale of the phenomenon concerning professional and educational inactive young people aged 15–34 in Poland and in the EU (the so-called NEET – Not in Education, Employment, or Training), particularly in rural areas, in the context of rural inhabitants’ opinions, concerning the impact of education on their situation and expectations relating to the sphere of their children’s education. For the purpose of the study the non-reactive method of the existing data analysis (desk research) was used. Basing upon the study of the subject literature and analysis of articles provided by experts, information was collected on the essence of the NEET population and its subgroups. Reasons behind the educational and professional inactivity of the youth were identified. Reports published by the Eurostat, Poland’s statistics in form of Diagnoza społeczna 2015 results and reports by the Institute of Educational Studies comprised the source of information. For a relatively long time the possibility of social advancement owing to education remained within the reach of solely the most ambitious individuals who left the country as les miraculés or les héritiers – “heirs” equipped in culture capital, successors to family educational biographies. There appear substantial differences in this sphere between individual EU member states, which can reach several dozen percent. In the comparative analysis, the NEET population inhabiting rural areas of Poland comprised over 16% in 2008, almost 21% in 2013 and over 17% in 2017. The attempt of diagnosing poses a strategic challenge to the rural EU areas as regards the selection of appropriate solutions resulting from the specificity of the motives for belonging to the NEET group.
Zorganizowanie producentów owoców i warzyw po 2004 roku. Stan i perspektywy = Self-organization of fruit and vegetable producers after 2004. Overview and prospects
Authors: Matuszczak Anna , Bieniek-Majka Maryla
Published: August 2019

The aim of this article was to present changes on the domestic fruit and vegetable market, which were observed after Poland’s accession to the European Union. The change in consumer behaviour and the need to adapt the offer to the increasing market requirements caused the need to take measures enhancing the competitiveness of horticulturists. One of them is the integration of producers. The authors presented changes in the organization of fruit and vegetable producers in Poland in 2004–2017. It was noticed that the Polish horticulturists prefer the southern European model of market organization, consisting in the existence of many small producer groups/organizations. In Poland after 2012, the number of fruit and vegetable producer groups/organizations and the number of members associated in them decreased. Fruit and vegetable producers by establishing the group most often indicated a neutral possibility of selecting the product category, including both fruits and vegetables in their offer. It was noticed that the groups that were liquidated were mostly homogeneous – they offered either fruits or vegetables. Attention is paid to the increase in of integration among mushroom producers. Mushrooms became one of the most important export products. Despite the shrinking number of producer organizations, those remaining on the market are characterized by a relatively stable market power. Changes in the number of producer organizations were larger than changes in the market share.
El impacto de los directivos sobre el estrés de los trabajadores
Authors: Rimbau-Gilabert Eva
Published: August 2019

El bienestar psicológico de los trabajadores deriva de un adecuado equilibrio entre, por un lado, los retos motivadores y los obstáculos a los que hacen frente y, por otro, los recursos laborales y personales con los que cuentan para superarlos. Los directivos o mandos están en una posición privilegiada para hacer posible este equilibrio, a través de su comportamiento diario, que se demuestra en su estilo directivo. Los estilos directivos pueden ordenarse según su impacto sobre el estrés laboral, de más negativo a más positivo: estilo abusivo, pasivo, transaccional y transformacional. El artículo explica las vías por las que los mandos pueden incidir en el bienestar psicosocial de los trabajadores y el papel concreto de cada uno de los estilos de liderazgo. Finalmente, concluye dando responsabilidad para desarrollar los estilos de liderazgo más positivos no solo a los mandos individuales, sino también a las empresas e instituciones y a las entidades formadoras.
Reconstruction of insect hormone pathways in an aquatic firefly, Sclerotia aquatilis (Coleoptera: Lampyridae), using RNA-seq
Authors: Chanchay Pornchanan , Vongsangnak Wanwipa , Thancharoen Anchana , Sriboonlert Ajaraporn
Published: August 2019

Insect hormones: ecdysteroids and juvenile hormones have crucial functions during the regulation of different developmental pathways in insects. Insect metamorphosis is one of the primary pathways regulated by these hormones. The insect hormone biosynthetic pathway is conserved among arthropods, including insects, with some variations in the form of hormones used among each group of insects. In this study, the candidate genes involved in the insect hormone pathways and their functional roles were assessed in an aquatic firefly, Sclerotia aquatilis using a high-throughput RNA sequencing technique. Illumina next-generation sequencing (NGS) was used to generate transcriptome data for the different developmental stages (i.e., larva, pupa, and adult) of S. aquatilis. A total of 82,022 unigenes were generated across all different developmental stages. Functional annotation was performed for each gene, based on multiple biological databases, generating 46,230 unigenes. These unigenes were subsequently mapped using KEGG pathways. Accordingly, 221 protein-encoding genes involved in the insect hormone pathways were identified, including, JHAMT, CYP15A1, JHE, and Halloween family genes. Twenty potential gene candidates associated with the biosynthetic and degradation pathways for insect hormones were subjected to real-time PCR, reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) and sequencing analyses. The real-time PCR results showed similar expression patterns as those observed for transcriptome expression profiles for most of the examined genes. RT-PCR and Sanger sequencing confirmed the expressed coding sequences of these gene candidates. This study is the first to examine firefly insect hormone pathways, facilitating a better understanding of firefly growth and development.
Clinical and Genetic Findings in Patients With Palmoplantar Keratoderma
Authors: Gram Stine Bjørn , Brusgaard Klaus , Lei Ulrikke , Sommerlund Mette , Vinding Gabrielle Randskov , Sleire Sondre Olai Kjellevold , Christensen Alex Hørby , Fast Sanne Pedersen , Bach Rasmus , Bygum Anette , Ousager Lilian Bomme
Published: December 2024

Importance

Palmoplantar keratoderma poses diagnostic challenges due to its clinical and genetic heterogeneity, and knowledge on the value of systematic genetic testing on clinically well-described patient cohorts is sparse.

Objective

To improve knowledge of the clinical and genetic spectrum of patients with palmoplantar keratoderma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study prospectively recruited patients and affected family members with palmoplantar keratoderma between September 1, 2016, and December 31, 2022. Patients were recruited from private practitioners in dermatology and dermatology departments in Denmark. Study participants were patients 18 years or older either newly diagnosed with palmoplantar keratoderma or being followed up for the disease at referral centers.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Phenotypes and clinical subtypes were classified. Genetic testing was performed by whole-exome or genome sequencing using an in silico panel containing genes related to palmoplantar keratoderma, or by Sanger sequencing for specific variants. Descriptive analysis, such as proportions and frequency, were used to describe clinical characteristics, distribution of disease-causing variants, and genotype-phenotype associations.

Results

This study included 142 study participants from 76 families (90 [63%] female; median [range] age, 52 [18-92] years). Clinical subtypes included 42 punctate (55%), 26 diffuse (34%), 5 focal (7%), and 3 striate (4%). A genetic diagnosis was found in 63 of 76 families (83%), including 27 disease-causing variants within 13 different genes: AAGAB (n = 39), DSG1 (n = 8), KRT1 (n = 3), DSP (n = 2), KRT9 (n = 2), AQP5 (n = 2), KRT16 (n = 1), SERPINA12 (n = 1), ABCA12 (n = 1), COL7A1 (n = 1), CARD14 (n = 1), DST (n = 1), and LORICRIN (n = 1). All participants with AAGAB variants presented with punctate palmoplantar keratoderma, showing a clear genotype-phenotype correlation. The other subtypes (diffuse, focal, and striate) proved more challenging to clinically subclassify, and disease-causing variants were identified in 12 genes, contributing to more complex genotype-phenotype patterns. Patients with palmoplantar keratoderma due to DSP variants were found, which is important to identify because of an associated risk of cardiomyopathy.

Conclusion and Relevance

This study provides novel insights into the clinical and genetic spectrum of patients with palmoplantar keratoderma. It demonstrates the value of genetic testing for accurate diagnoses and to distinguish between different subtypes. The established and well-described cohort lays the foundation for future research in palmoplantar keratoderma.
Accuracy in Measurement of Infant Formula Powder and Water by Caregivers With and Without a Crying Baby Present
Authors: Rosenkranz Richard R. , Acosta Chris , Gonzalez-Alvarez Ana , Hooyman Andrew , Hidalgo Jose R. , Ballesteros-Paniagua Romina , Rosenkranz Sara K.
Published: December 2024

This cross-sectional study assesses the accuracy in measurement of powder and water when preparing infant formula in the presence or absence of a simulated crying baby.
Nonemergency Medical Transportation Benefit in Traditional Medicare Advantage and Value-Based Plans
Authors: Shen Yunrong , Hu Xin , Nipp Ryan D. , Yabroff K. Robin , Hong Arthur S. , Liao Joshua M. , Jiang Changchuan
Published: December 2024

This cross-sectional study examines differences in the provision of nonemergency medical transportation benefits between traditional and value-based Medicare plans.
Laser‐Based Closed‐Loop Controlled Heat Treatment for Residual Stress Relief of Additively Manufactured AlSi10Mg Components
Authors: Wenger Robin , Hegele Patrick , Hofele Markus , Neuer Johannes , Riegel Harald
Published: December 2024

In laser powder bed fusion of metals small melt pools with extremely short solidification times and steep temperature gradients to the surrounding material exist due to the layer‐wise and selective melting process with small areas of energy input compared to the cooler, solid ambient material. This causes high thermally induced residual stresses (RS), which can lead to the immediate rejection of the component due to critical part deformation and inhomogeneous mechanical properties under load. To prevent this, furnace‐based stress relief heat treatments are commonly applied before cutting‐off the part from the built platform. In this study a novel closed‐loop controlled laser‐based heat treatment using temperature feedback through inline pyrometer measurement is investigated, enabling a fast and highly efficient postprocess stress relief. Therefore, a laser beam is guided by a scanner optics in a meandering pattern over the top surface of AlSi10Mg cantilever specimens. It enables a decrease of near‐surface RS from 158 to 5 N mm−2, resulting in a reduction of displacement by over 90% at material affecting depths up to 3 mm and area rates of 8 to 163 mm2 s−1.
Engineering the Microstructure and Spatial Bioactivity of MAP Scaffolds Instructs Vasculogenesis In Vitro and Modifies Vessel Formation In Vivo
Authors: Anderson Alexa R. , Caston Eleanor L. P. , Riley Lindsay , Nguyen Long , Ntekoumes Dimitris , Gerecht Sharon , Segura Tatiana
Published: December 2024

In tissues where the vasculature is either lacking or abnormal, biomaterials can be designed to promote vessel formation and enhance tissue repair. In this work, the microstructure and bioactivity of microporous annealed particle (MAP) scaffolds are independently tuned to guide cell growth in 3D and promote de novo assembly of endothelial progenitor‐like cells into vessels. Both in silico characterization and in vitro experimentation are implemented to elucidate an optimal scaffold formulation for vasculogenesis. It is determined that MAP scaffolds with pore volumes on the same order of magnitude as cells facilitate cell growth and vacuole formation. Spatial control over cell spreading is achieved by incorporating adhesive microgels in well‐mixed, heterogeneous MAP scaffolds. While it is demonstrated that integrin engagement is the primary driver of network formation in these materials, introducing adhesive microgels loaded with heparin nanoparticles leads to the formation of vascular tubes after 3 days in culture. It is then shown in vivo that this unique scaffold formulation enhances vessel maturation in a wound‐healing model and instructs differential vascular development in the tumor microenvironment. Taken together, this work determines the optimal microstructure and ligand presentation within MAP scaffolds that leads to vascular constructs in vitro and facilitates vessel formation in vivo.
An Oral Nanovaccine Secreted by Genetically Engineered and Ultrasound‐Responsive Bacteria for Colon Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Jiexin , Yang Ruiqi , Yuan Yihang , Ren He , Fang Chao , Lovell Jonathan F , Zhang Yumiao
Published: December 2024

Colorectal cancers represent a major global morbidity and mortality burden, neccessitating improved treatment paradigms. In this work, an ingestible, genetically engineered Escherichia coli (E. coli) 1917 termed “E. coli (AH1‐CDA‐Co1)” is designed that upon ultrasound exposure secretes bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMV) incorporating the AH1 tumor rejection epitope, an enzyme producing the stimulator of interferon genes (STING) agonist CDA, and the microfold cell‐targeting peptide Co1. For oral administration, a polydopamine system (iPDA) coating on bacteria is exploited to resist the acidic condition in stomach, increase the bacterial survival, and prolong the intestinal transit time. Upon harmless ultrasound exposure, sustained secretion of engineered OMV vaccines is triggered that efficiently cross the intestinal epithelium. Both cyclic GMP–AMP synthase (cGAS)‐STING and TLR4 innate immune signaling pathways are activated, triggering long‐term antigen‐specific immune responses that overcome the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. In subcutaneous and orthotopic murine colorectal tumor models, the E. coli (AH1‐CDA‐Co1)@iPDA system inhibits tumor growth and prolongs survival without recurrence. E. coli (AH1‐CDA‐Co1)@iPDA also inhibits tumor growth and recurrence in a postoperative orthotopic colonrectal tumor model of lymph node metastases. Taken together, E. coli (AH1‐CDA‐Co1)@iPDA demonstrates a potent oral vaccine system for improved colon cancer immunotherapy.
High‐Throughput Single‐Cell Analysis of Local Nascent Protein Deposition in 3D Microenvironments via Extracellular Protein Identification Cytometry (EPIC)
Authors: Meteling Marieke , Johnbosco Castro , Wolfel Alexis , Conceição Francisco , Govindaraj Kannan , Moreira Teixeira Liliana , Leijten Jeroen
Published: December 2024

Extracellular matrix (ECM) guides cell behavior and tissue fate. Cell populations are notoriously heterogeneous leading to large variations in cell behavior at the single‐cell level. Although insights into population heterogeneity are valuable for fundamental biology, regenerative medicine, and drug testing, current ECM analysis techniques only provide either averaged population‐level data or single‐cell data from a limited number of cells. Here, extracellular protein identification cytometry (EPIC) is presented as a novel platform technology that enables high‐throughput measurements of local nascent protein deposition at single‐cell level. Specifically, human primary chondrocytes are microfluidically encapsulated in enzymatically crosslinked microgels of 16 picoliter at kHz rates, forming large libraries of discrete 3D single‐cell microniches in which ECM can be deposited. ECM proteins are labeled using fluorescence immunostaining to allow for nondestructive analysis via flow cytometry. This approach reveals population heterogeneity in matrix deposition at unprecedented throughput, allowing for the identification and fluorescent activated cell sorting‐mediated isolation of cellular subpopulations. Additionally, it is demonstrated that inclusion of a second cell into microgels allows for studying the effect of cell‐cell contact on matrix deposition. In summary, EPIC enables high‐throughput single‐cell analysis of nascent proteins in 3D microenvironments, which is anticipated to advance fundamental knowledge and tissue engineering applications.
Hypoxia Induced Lnc191 Upregulation Dictates the Progression of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Activating GRP78/ERK Pathway
Authors: Wei Sisi , Fan Xinyi , Li Xiaoya , Zhou Wei , Zhang Zhihua , Dai Suli , Lv Huilai , Liu Yueping , Shan Baoen , Zhao Lianmei , Zhan Qimin , Song Yongmei
Published: December 2024

Hypoxia is a typical hallmark of solid tumors and plays a crucial role in the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinogenesis (ESCC). Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms underlying the involvement of hypoxia in tumor development remain unclear. In the present study, a novel hypoxia‐induced long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is identified first, lnc191, which is highly expressed in clinical ESCC tissues and is positively correlated with poor prognosis of ESCC patients. These findings provide evidence that the hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α)‐mediated transcriptional activation of lnc191 enhances the growth and metastasis of ESCC cells both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, lnc191 interacts with GRP78 (78‐kDa glucose‐regulated protein), one of the endoplasmic reticulum chaperone proteins, leading to its translocation to the membrane, where GRP78 binds with EGFR and enhances its phosphorylation (Y845), further activates ERK/MAPK signaling pathway, and thereby in favor of the progression of ESCC. Overall, this data proposes lnc191 as a key driver during the development of ESCC and reveals the participation of the activated GRP78/ERK/MAPK axis in the ESCC progression mediated by lnc191. These findings indicate the potential of lnc191 as a promising diagnostic biomarker and therapeutic target in ESCC.
Unraveling the Role of the Tumor Extracellular Matrix to Inform Nanoparticle Design for Nanomedicine
Authors: Cassani Marco , Fernandes Soraia , Pagliari Stefania , Cavalieri Francesca , Caruso Frank , Forte Giancarlo
Published: December 2024

The extracellular matrix (ECM)—and its mechanobiology—regulates key cellular functions that drive tumor growth and development. Accordingly, mechanotherapy is emerging as an effective approach to treat fibrotic diseases such as cancer. Through restoring the ECM to healthy‐like conditions, this treatment aims to improve tissue perfusion, facilitating the delivery of chemotherapies. In particular, the manipulation of ECM is gaining interest as a valuable strategy for developing innovative treatments based on nanoparticles (NPs). However, further progress is required; for instance, it is known that the presence of a dense ECM, which hampers the penetration of NPs, primarily impacts the efficacy of nanomedicines. Furthermore, most 2D in vitro studies fail to recapitulate the physiological deposition of matrix components. To address these issues, a comprehensive understanding of the interactions between the ECM and NPs is needed. This review focuses on the main features of the ECM and its complex interplay with NPs. Recent advances in mechanotherapy are discussed and insights are offered into how its combination with nanomedicine can help improve nanomaterials design and advance their clinical translation.
Synergetic Phase Modulation and N‐Doping of MoS2 for Highly Sensitive Flexible NO2 Sensors
Authors: Kim Jiyun , Li Mengyao , Lin Chun‐Ho , Hu Long , Wan Tao , Saeed Ayad , Guan Peiyuan , Feng Zijian , Kumeria Tushar , Tang Jianbo , Su Dawei , Wu Tom , Chu Dewei
Published: December 2024

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) is a promising electronic material owing to its excellent electrochemical features, high carrier mobility at room temperature, and widely tunable electronic properties. Here, through precursor engineering and post‐treatments to tailor their phase and doping, electronic characteristics of MoS2 are significantly modified. It is found that 2H semiconductor phase with nitrogen doping (N‐doping) in flexible gas sensors constructed with Ag electrodes exhibits the highest sensitivity of ≈2500% toward 10 ppm of NO2. This sensitivity is ≈17‐ and 417‐folds higher than that of 2H MoS2 without N‐doping, and mixed phases with metallic 1T and semiconductor 2H phase, respectively. Comprehensive experimental investigations reveal mechanisms underlying this record sensitivity, that is, the use of N‐doped 2H MoS2 sensors not only significantly suppresses dark current but also effectively enhances electron transfer to NO2 molecules. Moreover, density function theory calculations underpin the experimental results, confirming that N2H4 molecules from the precursor solution not only promote phase transition but also enable N‐doping during post‐treatments, thus boosting sensing capability. This work, for the first time, reveals the synergistic effect of phase modulation and N‐doping of MoS2, which can be readily used in other flexible electronic applications, advancing MoS2‐based electronics to a new stage.
Popcorn Effect–inspired Self‐propagating Formation of High‐conductivity Cement Composite for Multifunctional Applications
Authors: Wu Haiping , Huang Jiaqi , Qu Zhengyao , Zheng Xueling , Tan Sirui , Du Wei , Cai Guanming , Zhao Zhong , Wu Jing , Li Daiqi
Published: December 2024

The surge in modern civil technologies demands a transformation in cement composites to surpass traditional roles and integrate smart functionalities. In this regard, enhancing the electrical conductivity of cement composites is a critical challenge. This study introduces a novel strategy for the self‐propagating formation of expandable graphite‐based high‐conductivity cement composites through a simple thermal treatment with 3 wt.% expandable graphite and 1 wt.%carbon fiber as conductive fillers. Inspired by the popcorn effect, this method leverages the rapid expansion of graphite at high temperatures, promoting contact between conductive fillers and forming new conductive networks. The obtained composites demonstrate a remarkable reduction of 60% in electrical resistance after heat treatment compared to the electrical resistance of standard cement composites, and the enhancing mechanisms is explored. The conductive properties endow the material with excellent electrothermal (>100 °C at 10 V), electrothermochromic (response time of 2 s), and electromagnetic interference shielding (42 dB at 12.4 GHz) performance. This innovative approach provides vast opportunities for developing smart infrastructure with enhanced electrical properties, regarded as a promising candidate for promoting next‐generation buildings and infrastructures.
Water‐Triggered Reconfigurable Glycerogels for Sustainable All‐Gel Supercapacitors
Authors: Mredha Md. Tariful Islam , Rama Varma Adith Varma , Gupta Tanish , Jeon Insu
Published: December 2024

The polymeric structures of synthetic gels are typically static, which makes them damage‐prone and nonrecyclable. Inspired by the dynamic reconfigurability of biological tissues, which eliminate old/damaged cells and regenerate new ones via biological triggers/signals, a reconfigurable biopolymer gel is presented based on a glycerol‐mediated supramolecular gelation strategy. In response to an eco‐friendly triggering agent water, this gel undergoes on‐demand molecular‐level reconfiguration. The versatility of the approach enables the development of reconfigurable gels with modulated functionality. As a proof‐of‐concept, a reconfigurable glycerogel electrode and electrolyte are developed and used to prototype an all‐gel supercapacitor that exhibits exceptional self‐healing, degradation, and rebuilding abilities. Furthermore, it can tolerate extreme mechanical deformations (e.g., stretching, bending, and twisting) and temperatures (−20 to 80 °C). The device exhibits excellent energy storage performance, with a maximum areal capacitance of 450 mF cm−2 (at 0.035 mA cm−2) and remarkable capacitance retention of 89% following 20 000 charge/discharge cycles (at 0.35 mA cm−2). Moreover, following self‐healing and rebuilding, the capacitance remains at 91% and 110% (at 0.35 mA cm−2) of the original value, respectively. This generalized strategy for preparing multifunctional reconfigurable gels will facilitate the development of high‐performance flexible and wearable devices with improved durability and recyclability.
Metal‐Mediated Chlorine Transfer for Molten Salt‐Driven Thermodynamic Change on Silicon Production
Authors: Je Minjun , Kim Jin Chul , Kim Jiyeon , Kim Sungho , Ryu Sunmin , Ryu Jaegeon , Kwak Sang Kyu , Park Soojin
Published: December 2024

The development of silicon (Si) material poses a great challenge with profound technological advancements for semiconductors, photo/photoelectric systems, solar cells, and secondary batteries. Typically, Si production involves the thermochemical reduction of silicon oxides, where chloride salt additives help properly revamp the reaction mechanism. Herein, we unravel the chemical principles of molten AlCl3 salt in metallothermic reduction. Above its melting temperature (Tm ≈ 192 °C), three AlCl3 molecules coordinate with each metal (M) atom (e.g., conventional Al and Mg, or even thermodynamically unfeasible Zn) to form metal‐AlCl3 complexes, M(AlCl3)3. In the molten AlCl3 salt media, all complexes directly lead to the universal formation of AlOCl byproduct and as‐reduced Si spheres through internal Cl* transfer during the reduction reaction. Intriguingly, highly oxophilic metal (i.e., Mg) establishes additional energetic shortcuts in reaction pathways, where AlCl3 directly detaches an oxygen atom, accompanied by strong metal‐oxygen interactions and Cl* transfer within the same complex. Moreover, the thermodynamic stability of the metal‐AlCl3 complex residue (MAl2Cl8) and the microstructure of post‐treated Si do change according to the metal choice, imparting disparate physicochemical properties for Si. This work offers insights into the scalable production of tailored Si materials for industrial applications, along with cost‐effective operations at 250 °C.
High Catalytic Selectivity of Electron/Proton Dual‐Conductive Sulfonated Polyaniline Micropore Encased IrO2 Electrocatalyst by Screening Effect for Oxygen Evolution of Seawater Electrolysis
Authors: Shen Yuhan , Zhao Shengqiu , Wu Fanglin , Zhang Hao , Zhu Liyan , Wu Mingjuan , Tian Tian , Tang Haolin
Published: December 2024

Acidic seawater electrolysis offers significant advantages in high efficiency and sustainable hydrogen production. However, in situ electrolysis of acidic seawater remains a challenge. Herein, a stable and efficient catalyst (SPTTPAB/IrO2) is developed by coating iridium oxide (IrO2) with a microporous conjugated organic framework functionalized with sulfonate groups (‐SO3H) to tackle these challenges. The SPTTPAB/IrO2 presents a ‐SO3H concentration of 5.62 × 10−4 mol g−1 and micropore below 2 nm numbering 1.026 × 1016 g−1. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that the conjugated organic framework blocked 98.62% of Cl− in seawater from reaching the catalyst. This structure combines electron conductivity from the organic framework and proton conductivity from ‐SO3H, weakens the Cl− adsorption, and suppresses metal‐chlorine coupling, thus enhancing the catalytic activity and selectivity. As a result, the overpotential for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is only 283 mV@10 mA cm−2, with a Tafel slope of 16.33 mV dec−1, which reduces 13.8% and 37.8% compared to commercial IrO2, respectively. Impressively, SPTTPAB/IrO2 exhibits outstanding seawater electrolysis performance, with a 35.3% improvement over IrO2 to 69 mA cm−2@1.9 V, while the degradation rate (0.018 mA h−1) is only 24.6% of IrO2. This study offers an innovative solution for designing high‐performance seawater electrolysis electrocatalysts.
Microwave Ablation Combined with Flt3L Provokes Tumor‐Specific Memory CD8+ T Cells‐Mediated Antitumor Immunity in Response to PD‐1 Blockade
Authors: Wang Meixiang , Sang Jing , Xu Fengkuo , Wang Shulong , Liu Peng , Ma Ji , Chen Zhengtao , Xie Qi , Wei Zhigang , Ye Xin
Published: December 2024

For medically inoperable non‐small cell lung cancer, microwave ablation (MWA) represents a super minimally invasive alternative treatment. However, tumor recurrence remains a concern. Here, it is demonstrated that the combination of MWA with Flt3L significantly inhibits tumor recurrence by CD8+ central memory T (TCM)‐like cell‐dependent antitumor immune responses within the tumor‐draining lymph nodes (TdLN). TdLN‐TCM‐like cells encompassed both tumor‐specific memory T (TTSM) and progenitor‐exhausted T (TPEX) cells. The expansion of these cells markedly altered the differentiation of exhausted T cells within the tumor microenvironment (TME). TPEX predominantly differentiated into transitory effector‐like exhausted T cells (TEX‐int). The expansion of TTSM cells elicited by the combined therapy was reliant on conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) and was likely specifically dependent on the migratory cDC1s (Mig cDC1s) within the TdLN. The upregulation of ICOSL on migratory cDC1s was pivotal in initiating TTSM‐like cell‐mediated antitumor responses. Slc38a2 may be a critical gene responsible for the upregulation of ICOSL in Mig cDC1s following combined treatment. Finally, the combined treatment significantly enhanced the antitumor efficacy of immunotherapy based on PD‐1 blockade. The research thereby afforded a novel strategic approach to forestall tumor recurrence after MWA therapy, while also providing the foundational proof‐of‐concept for impending clinical investigations.
Off‐Flavour Removal With Advanced Oxidation Process and Hydrogen Peroxide Treatments in Recirculating Aquaculture Systems
Authors: Pettersson Samu , Lindholm‐Lehto Petra C. , Pulkkinen Jani T. , Tuhkanen Tuula
Published: December 2024

Aquaculture is becoming increasingly important for the world's food production. Recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) has a reduced water requirement and better possibilities for waste handling. Unfortunately, off‐flavours can be formed in RAS and concentrate on fish flesh. Off‐flavour compounds cause earthy, musty or other unwanted flavours to fish flesh that consumers find objectionable. Typically, off‐flavours are removed by depurating the fish in clean water, but it often takes from days to weeks to fully remove these unwanted flavours that causes additional costs to fish producers. Therefore, reliable methods to reduce the need for depuration are needed. In this study, two methods were investigated for the removal of off‐flavours in RAS rearing rainbow trout Oncorhynchus mykiss: an advanced oxidation process (AOP) using a combination of ozone (O3) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), and a treatment with H2O2 alone. Two treatments (AOP and H2O2) and a control without oxidants were applied across nine identical experimental RASs for 8 h day−1 over 10 days, and selected off‐flavour compounds in water and fish were analysed. In fish, the concentrations of GSM and MIB were on average 776 and 962 ng kg−1 (AOP) and 688 and 919 ng kg−1 (H2O2) compared to 1071 and 1205 ng kg−1 in the controls. The results showed that intensive oxidant treatments reduced the off‐flavour concentrations in the recirculating water and in fish, which can potentially lead to reduced depuration time and production costs. Further optimization of the treatment is needed to improve off‐flavour removal efficiencies.
Using red–green–blue vegetation indices to evaluate complex agronomical traits in soybean breeding
Authors: Vianna Mariana Silva , Matias Filipe Inácio , Galli Giovanni , Martins Emanoel Sanches , Oliveira Maiara , Pinheiro José Baldin
Published: December 2024

High‐throughput phenotyping is an emerging tool that allows access to identify simple and complex traits, accelerating genetic discoveries and selection. Vegetation indices strongly correlate with several economic crop traits, allowing plant breeders to detect variation in breeding populations. Thus, this study used red–green–blue (RGB) vegetation indices to evaluate the influence of the stink bug complex (Euschistus heros, Piezodorus guildinii, Nezara viridula, Dichelops melacanthus, and Edessa meditabunda) on the agronomical traits of soybean (Glycine max) lineages. For instance, two experiments were conducted to assess soybean resistance to the stink bug complex, (1) with and (2) without pesticide control. An unmanned aerial vehicle coupled with an RGB camera acquired aerial photography over the field during the R5 stage. Four vegetation indices and canopy were estimated from the orthomosaic, and the genotypes were evaluated based on agronomical traits. Linear mixed models were used to estimate the variance and significance test of each trait using the likelihood ratio test, and the principal component analysis was performed to verify the multivariate pattern among genotypes. The results showed significant genotypic effects for most traits with high broad‐sense heritability for agronomical traits and moderate for vegetation indices. Significant correlations using best linear unbiased predictions were observed among the agronomical traits with the vegetation indices and canopy coverage, which can be used as a tool for the indirect selection of soybean lineages in the breeding pipeline.
Risk factors for postoperative complications in laparoscopic and robot‐assisted surgery for octogenarians with colorectal cancer: A multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Yamamoto Takehito , Hida Koya , Goto Kentaro , Fukuda Meiki , Inamoto Susumu , Hashida Hiroki , Matsusue Ryo , Takahashi Ryo , Mizuno Rei , Terajima Hiroaki , Obama Kazutaka
Published: December 2024

Aim

Minimally invasive surgery for colorectal cancer is increasing globally. However, the safety in older patients have not been thoroughly examined.

Methods

Patients with colorectal cancer who underwent laparoscopic or robot‐assisted surgery at Kyoto University Hospital and 18 affiliated institutions in Japan that participated in the Kyoto Colorectal Surgery Group between 2018 and 2023 were enrolled. Focusing on patients ≥80 y, we investigated the risk factors for postoperative complications.

Results

In total, 7303 patients were enrolled in this study. The mean age was 71 ± 11 y, with 1665 patients (22.8%) ≥80 y old. Older patients (≥80 y) had significantly higher ASA and ECOG‐PS scores and more comorbidities including diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), hypertension, heart disease, and cerebrovascular disease than patients ≤79 y old (all p < 0.05). In the older group, postoperative complications (Clavien–Dindo grade ≥II) occurred in 210 patients (12.6%). After adjusting for covariates using the multivariable logistic regression model, rectal cancer (odds ratio [OR]: 1.84, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30–2.60, p = 0.001), operation time ≥300 min (OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.07–2.16, p = 0.020), and blood loss ≥100 mL (OR: 2.19, 95% CI: 1.80–3.24, p < 0.001) were associated with the occurrence of complications, whereas their comorbidities showed no association.

Conclusion

In minimally invasive colorectal cancer surgery for older patients (≥80 y old), prioritizing shorter operation time and blood loss control is crucial, especially for patients with rectal cancer because of their high risk of complications.
Visible‐Light Driven Photocatalytic Strategies for the Synthesis of Pyrrolines
Authors: Kesharwani Nitya , Garima Km , Srivastava Vishal , Singh Praveen P. , Singh Pravin K.
Published: December 2024

Pyrroline is a five‐membered nitrogen‐containing heterocyclic compound found in various biologically active compounds, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals. Several synthetic methods have been reported for the preparation of these heterocycles, along with their notable biological activities. Visible light and photoredox catalysis have become powerful and enduring tools in organic synthesis. This review highlights the impact of visible light‐driven chemistry on the synthesis and modification of heterocyclic compounds containing pyrroline ring for their medicinal importance.
TRIB3 suppresses milk fatty acids metabolism by inhibiting p‐AKT/PPARG signaling in goat mammary epithelial cells
Authors: Gong Xinglong , Pan Tan , Xiong Tiantian , Zhu Yifan , Loor Juan J. , Han Chengming , Li Yifan , Lei Huan , Luo Jun , Li Cong
Published: December 2024

Tribbles pseudokinase 3 (TRIB3) interacts with a variety of proteins and plays a key role in the regulation of glucose metabolism and glycolysis in nonruminants, but whether it has a specific role in goat mammary lipid metabolism has still been kept unknown. In this study, we observed that TRIB3 is highly expressed in the mammary tissues of lactating dairy goats. Overexpressing TRIB3 in goat mammary epithelial cells (GMECs) suppressed the mRNA expression of GPAM, DGAT1, and PLIN1, which are associated with the formation of triacylglycerol and lipid droplets (p < 0.05). The fatty acid‐sensitive transcription regulator PPARG was also downregulated. Interfering TRIB3 had the opposite effect and decreased Akt phosphorylation. The TRIB3 gene influenced fatty acid composition in GMECs, and its overexpression reduced the total concentration of intracellular triacylglycerol (p < 0.01), this response was verified using BODIPY staining. Overall, these data indicated that TRIB3 suppresses milk fatty acids metabolism through inhibiting p‐AKT/PPARG signaling in GMECs.
FAM3C Regulates Glioma Cell Proliferation, Invasion, Apoptosis, and Epithelial Mesenchymal Transition via the Notch Pathway
Authors: Xia Xiaochao , Wang Zihao , Song Lvmeng , Cheng Yinchuan , Xiong Ping , Li Shun
Published: December 2024

Background

Previous studies have implicated the involvement of FAM3C in cancerous development and progression. Herein, we aimed to further investigate the oncological mechanism of FAM3C, specifically in glioma.

Methods

We utilized open‐source bioinformatics tools and platforms to analyze the transcriptional expression levels, prognosis, and correlation with clinical variables of FAM3C in gliomas, and subsequently, to hypothesize its potential molecular functions and possibly associated signaling pathways. Following this, glioma tissues were obtained from resected specimens of patients to assess the expression of FAM3C and molecular markers related to epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and Notch signaling pathways. Furthermore, glioma cell lines were subjected to treatments including FAM3C siRNA knockdown, lentiviral overexpression, and Notch signaling pathway blockade, enabling the investigation of molecular functions of FAM3C in vitro, particularly in EMT and Notch signaling pathways, as well as its effects on cancer cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and invasion, using assays such as MMT cell proliferation assay, transwell migration, and flow cytometry analysis. Finally, a mouse subcutaneous xenograft model was established to explore the integrative function of FAM3C in glioma growth in vivo.

Results

The expression level of FAM3C correlated with the progression of glioma grade and served as a prognostic indicator for poor patient outcomes. Subsequent experiments conducted on glioma cell lines, tumor tissues, and mouse models reinforced the close association of FAM3C with processes including glioma cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and invasion. Additionally, it was observed that FAM3C is involved in the regulation of the Notch signaling pathway.

Conclusions

FAM3C emerges as a potential candidate for clinical detection and prognostic biomarker application. Its regulatory role in glioma cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and modulation of epithelial–mesenchymal transition‐driven invasion and migration via the Notch signaling pathway implies its potential to unveil novel therapeutic targets for glioma treatment.
Antiplasmodial Potentials, Phytocompounds, and the Possible Toxic Effects of Administration of Ethylacetate Extract of Spondias mombin Linn.
Authors: Nwankwo Nicodemus Emeka , Ezenabor Emmanuel Henry , Abonyi Obiora Emmanuel , Okolo Bartholomew Onyekachi
Published: December 2024

Malaria, caused by Plasmodium parasites, is a global health concern. Natural products, such as plant extracts, are investigated for new antimalarial agents. Spondias mombin, traditionally used for medicinal purposes, was examined for its effects on parasitemia, hematological parameters, antioxidant activities, liver function biomarkers, and serum electrolytes in Plasmodium berghei‐infected mice. Mice received varying doses of the ethylacetate extract. Various dosages of the extract and the prescribed medication dramatically slowed the parasite's growth. The extract significantly improved red blood cell (RBC) and platelet counts, particularly at higher doses. Hemoglobin levels were decreased dose‐dependently. Antioxidant analysis showed increased superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and reduced catalase (CAT) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating robust antioxidant properties. Liver function tests showed mixed effects, with elevated aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and total bilirubin (TB) levels at some doses, yet decreased alanine aminotransferase (ALT) at the highest dose, suggesting possible hepatoprotective effects. Serum electrolyte levels remained stable. Seventy‐eight (78) bioactive components were identified in the extract by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) analysis. The extract demonstrated substantial antimalarial and antioxidant capacities, with minimal liver stress and stable electrolyte levels, suggesting safety as an adjunct therapy for malaria. Further research is needed to ascertain the specific antimalarial bioactive constituents and their mechanisms of action.
Quinuclidine‐Catalyzed Electrochemical Minisci Acylation of N‐Heteroarenes with Acylhydrazines
Authors: Zhang Haonan , Wang Dehui , Xu Kun , Zeng Chengchu
Published: December 2024

The quinuclidine (Qu)‐catalyzed activation of acylhydrazines to afford the corresponding acyl radicals remains an unmet challenge. To address this challenge, we report a synergistic strategy by combining electro‐oxidation with Qu‐based HAT catalysis. Enabled by this strategy, the electrochemical Minisci acylation of N‐heterocycles with acylhydrazines was realized for the first time.
Reactive Molecular Simulations of Catalytic Methane Decomposition on Ni (1 1 0) Surface
Authors: Arifin Rizal , Winardi Yoyok , Zulkarnain  , Abdurrouf  , Darminto  , Johari Norhasnidawani , Selamat Ali
Published: December 2024

Using catalytic methane decomposition techniques to produce H2 could advance renewable energy development. Selecting the proper catalyst for this method is essential for efficient hydrogen production. We used reactive molecular simulations to examine methane's decomposition reaction and the formation of H2 molecules on a Ni (1 1 0) surface. The results show that the dissociation of H atoms on Ni (1 1 0) surfaces produced H2 molecules. The reaction reached saturation because the Ni (1 1 0) surface was covered by methane fragments. These exhibited enhanced adsorption as the H atoms’ dissociation intensified. As the number of hydrogen atoms bonded to methane fragments decreased, the adsorption energy of methane fragments decreased.
An Organic EnT Photocatalyst 4CzMeBN and the Application in the Synthesis of cis‐Fused Azetidines
Authors: Feng Chuan , Liu Yilei , Xiang Zhihui , Cheng Xiong , Wei Siping , Liu Xinran , Deng Qinmin , Fu Qiang , Zhang Zhijie
Published: December 2024

A powerful EnT photocatalyst 4CzMeBN has been developed and utilized in the synthesis of cis‐fused azetidines via dearomative [2+2] cycloaddition under visible light. The photocatalyst 4CzMeBN is a donor‐acceptor cyanoarene and features high triplet state energy and long lifetime of triplet state, which would be an alternative to widely used EnT photocatalyst Ir[dF(CF3)ppy]2(dtbbpy)PF6. The photochemical [2+2] cycloaddition provides a facile method to synthesize valuable dihydroisoquinolone‐fused azetidines with high efficiency.
Emission‐Tunable B←N Lewis Pair‐Functionalized Naphthalenes
Authors: Zhang Yufeng , Matler Alexander , Krebs Johannes , Krummenacher Ivo , Ye Qing , Braunschweig Holger , Marder Todd B. , Ji Lei
Published: December 2024

Herein, we simultaneously synthesized three different double B←N Lewis pair‐functionalized naphthalenes including the asymmetric BNNY and BNNO and the mirror‐symmetric BNNR, via a one‐pot method. The annulation modes of the B←N Lewis pairs and the substituents on the boron atoms efficiently tune the molecular frontier orbitals and emission colors. α‐Position fusion leads to a significant enhancement of the HOMO energy level and a decrease in the HOMO‐LUMO gap, while the electron‐withdrawing groups attached to the boron atom make the LUMO energy level more stable. In particular, the LUMO energy level of BNNO is as low as −3.12 eV. BNNY, BNNO, and BNNR emit cyan, green, and red fluorescence at 509, 534, and 620 nm, respectively, with fluorescence quantum yields of 24 %, 49 %, and 30 %, respectively.
Randomly pivoted Cholesky: Practical approximation of a kernel matrix with few entry evaluations
Authors: Chen Yifan , Epperly Ethan N. , Tropp Joel A. , Webber Robert J.
Published: December 2024

The randomly pivoted Cholesky algorithm (RPCholesky) computes a factorized rank‐ approximation of an positive‐semidefinite (psd) matrix. RPCholesky requires only entry evaluations and additional arithmetic operations, and it can be implemented with just a few lines of code. The method is particularly useful for approximating a kernel matrix. This paper offers a thorough new investigation of the empirical and theoretical behavior of this fundamental algorithm. For matrix approximation problems that arise in scientific machine learning, experiments show that RPCholesky matches or beats the performance of alternative algorithms. Moreover, RPCholesky provably returns low‐rank approximations that are nearly optimal. The simplicity, effectiveness, and robustness of RPCholesky strongly support its use in scientific computing and machine learning applications.