bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
СЕЗОННОСТЬ СУБМЕЗОМАСШТАБНЫХ КОГЕРЕНТНЫХ ВИХРЕЙ В СЕВЕРНОЙ БАЛТИКЕ: МОДЕЛЬНОЕ ИССЛЕДОВАНИЕ, "Фундаментальная и прикладная гидрофизика"
Authors: Вяли Г. , Журбас В.М.
Published: October 2021

Моделирование северной части собственно Балтийского моря с очень высоким разрешением показывает, что летом образуются циклонические и антициклонические субмезомасштабные когерентные вихри (СКВ) с экстремумом вертикальной завихренности в поверхностном слое, в то время как подповерхностные антициклонические СКВ в форме выпуклых линз в поле плотности преобладают над циклоническими СКВ — вогнутыми линзами с экстремумом вертикальной завихренности в холодном промежуточном слое ниже сезонного термоклина и выше перманентного галоклина. Зимой сезонный термоклин и холодный промежуточный слой сменяются относительно глубоким конвективно-перемешанным слоем, что делает невозможным образование подповерхностных вогнутых циклонических и выпуклых антициклонических линз. Вместо этого преобладают зимние циклонические СКВ с экстремальной вертикальной завихренностью на поверхности. Ядро зимних циклонических СКВ характеризуется отрицательной температурной аномалией во всем конвективно-перемешанном слое. В течение своего жизненного цикла длительностью до нескольких месяцев и более, смоделированный СКВ может многократно сливаться с другими СКВ того же знака завихренности, и слияние делает вихрь сильнее, тем самым способствуя его долговечности.
РАЗВИТИЕ SPIROGYRA SP. НА РЫБОЛОВНЫХ СЕТЯХ В ТАГАНРОГСКОМ ЗАЛИВЕ В УСЛОВИЯХ ПОВЫШЕННОЙ СОЛЕНОСТИ, "Наука юга России"
Authors: Матишов Г.Г. , Глущенко Г.Ю. , Ковалёва Г.В. , Алёшина Е.Г. , Мельников И.А.
Published: October 2021

С начала XXI века Азово-Донской бассейн испытывает влияние процессов маловодья, что приводит к заполнению дельты Дона и прилегающей акватории Таганрогского залива Азовского моря нетипичными слабосолеными и солоноватыми водами. В результате этого происходит трансформация термохалинной, трофической и биоценотической структуры водоема, деградация ихтиофауны, коренная перестройка как в планктонных, так и в бентосных сообществах. Все чаще последствия указанных трендов имеют масштабы опасного природного явления. Описано новое для водоема явление – обрастание рыболовных сетей нитчатыми водорослями из рода Spirogyra в восточной, мелководной, части Таганрогского залива. В литературе отсутствуют данные о присутствии Spirogyra в обрастаниях исследуемого водоема. Изучение образцов, которые были собраны в мае 2021 г., показало, что морфологические признаки фертильных нитей спирогиры соответствовали описанию Spirogyra cf. decimina. Помимо S. decimina на основе морфологических отличий вегетативных талломов выделены еще две морфы. Приведены результаты качественного анализа и количественной оценки макроводорослевых обрастаний рыболовных сетей, а также микрофотографии различных стадий развития исследуемых водорослей. Перечислены основные факторы среды, вызывающие массовое развитие представителей рода Spirogyra, и проанализированы гидрологические условия Таганрогского залива, на фоне которых происходило интенсивное развитие водорослей на сетях.
A Study on the Shape Selection of Mechanical Fastening for the Repair of Fighter Wing
Authors: Choi Dongsu
Published: October 2021

A study on optimal shape selection of a mechanical fastening for the repair of crack defect of ROK Air Force F-5 fighter wing was conducted. The crack defect occurred in the spar of the wing, and the technical manual does not specify the repair method. However, ROK Air Force decided to develop a repair technology for this defect in consideration of various logistic conditions. Three repair shapes for the proper repair were devised and the finite element analysis was performed to examine the structural safety of these three connection members. As a result of the structural safety review, two connection members except one were structurally safe with safety margins over zero because the calculated stress values were at or below the yield strength level. Therefore, two connection members were determined to be able to use for repair under the condition that the aircraft operated within the design limit load. The results of this study would be very useful if the same defect occurs in long-term aircraft operated by the ROK Air Force.
A Study of Performance Characteristics for Active Sonar in Korean Shallow Seawater Temperature Structures
Authors: Kim Won-Ki , Bae Ho Seuk , Son Su-Uk , Hahn Jooyeong , Park Joung-Soo
Published: October 2021

It is obvious that understanding the effects of shallow water environment of Korea is very important to guarantee the optimal performance of active sonar such as monostatic and bistatic sonar. For this reason, in this paper, we analyzed the detection performance characteristics for various depth deployments of sonar in summer, winter and water temperature inversion environments, which environments are frequently observed in shallow water of Korea such as the Yellow sea. To analyze only effects of water temperature structures on target detection performance, we applied range independent conditions for bottom, sea surface and water temperature characteristics. To understand the characteristics of detection performance, we conducted transmission loss and signal excess modeling. From the results, we were able to confirm the characteristics of detection performance of active sonar. In addition, we verified that operation depth of transmitter and receiver affects the detection performance. Especially in the water temperature inversion environment, it was confirmed that the shadow zone could be minimized and the detection range could be increased through bistatic operation.
Source Enumeration Method using Eigenvalue Gap Ratio and Performance Comparison in Rayleigh Fading
Authors: Kim Taeyoung , Lee Yunseong , Park Chanhong , Choi Yeongyoon , Kim Kiseon , Lee Dongkeun , Lee Myung-Sik , Kang Hyunjin
Published: October 2021

In electronic warfare, source enumeration and direction-of-arrival estimation are important. The source enumeration method based on eigenvalues of covariance matrix from received is one of the most used methods. However, there are some drawbacks such as accuracy less than 100 % at high SNR, poor performance at low SNR and reduction of maximum number of estimating sources. We suggested new method based on eigenvalues gaps, which is named AREG(Accumulated Ratio of Eigenvalues Gaps). Meanwhile, FGML(Fast Gridless Maximum Likelihood) which reconstructs the covariance matrix was suggested by Wu et al., and it improves performance of the existing source enumeration methods without modification of algorithms. In this paper, first, we combine AREG with FGML to improve the performance. Second, we compare the performance of source enumeration and direction-of-arrival estimation methods in Rayleigh fading. Third, we suggest new method named REG(Ratio of Eigenvalues Gaps) to reduce performance degradation in Rayleigh Fading environment of AREG.
Reinforcement Learning based on Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient for Roll Control of Underwater Vehicle
Authors: Kim Su Yong , Hwang Yeon Geol , Moon Sung Woong
Published: October 2021

The existing underwater vehicle controller design is applied by linearizing the nonlinear dynamics model to a specific motion section. Since the linear controller has unstable control performance in a transient state, various studies have been conducted to overcome this problem. Recently, there have been studies to improve the control performance in the transient state by using reinforcement learning. Reinforcement learning can be largely divided into value-based reinforcement learning and policy-based reinforcement learning. In this paper, we propose the roll controller of underwater vehicle based on Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient(DDPG) that learns the control policy and can show stable control performance in various situations and environments. The performance of the proposed DDPG based roll controller was verified through simulation and compared with the existing PID and DQN with Normalized Advantage Functions based roll controllers.
Integrative systems‐level analysis reveals a contextual crosstalk between hypoxia and global metabolism in human breast tumors
Authors: Abou Khouzam Raefa , Chouaib Salem , Iqbal Mohammad Askandar
Published: December 2024

Hypoxia is known to induce reprogramming of glucose metabolism in cancer. However, the impact of hypoxia on global metabolism remains poorly understood. Here, using the systems approach, we evaluated the potential crosstalk between hypoxia and global metabolism using data from > 2000 breast tumors. Tumor samples were scored for hypoxia and 90 metabolic pathways, and these metrics were subjected to an analysis pipeline. Hypoxia showed a very strong association with metabolic aggression and an overall contextual relationship with metabolism. Out of three (M1, M2, and M3) metabolic types in breast cancer, M3 exhibited the strongest relationship with hypoxia; that is, high hypoxic tumors were also metabolically deregulated. Further, the overall correlation pattern between hypoxia and metabolic pathway scores was specific to each type, with M1 showing maximal sensitivity to hypoxia, followed by M2 and then M3. Experimental validation using metabolic inhibitors on cell lines with high or low hypoxia scores further confirmed the metabolic type‐dependence of hypoxia. In addition, evaluation of the impact of hypoxia on cancer pathways other than metabolic ones revealed a potential role of hypoxia in immune evasive characteristic of M3 tumors. Overall, the results suggest a complex interplay between hypoxia and metabolism in the context of human breast tumors, with potential implications for both basic cancer biology and breast cancer therapy.
An “Outer Piezoelectric and Inner Epigenetic” Logic‐Gated PANoptosis for Osteosarcoma Sono‐Immunotherapy and Bone Regeneration
Authors: Wang Xiaoting , Guo Xun , Ren Hongze , Song Xinran , Chen Liang , Yu Luodan , Ren Jianli , Chen Yu
Published: December 2024

The precise manipulation of PANoptosis, a newly defined cell death pathway encompassing pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, is highly desired to achieve safer cancer immunotherapy with tumor‐specific inflammatory responses and minimal side effects. Nonetheless, this objective remains a formidable challenge. Herein, an “AND” logic‐gated strategy for accurately localized PANoptosis activation, utilizing composite 3D‐printed bioactive glasses scaffolds integrated with epigenetic regulator‐loaded porous piezoelectric SrTiO3 nanoparticles is proposed. The “logic‐gated” strategy is co‐programmed by an “outer” input signal of exogenous ultrasound irradiation to produce reactive oxygen species and an “inner” input signal of acid tumor microenvironment to ensure the epigenetic demethylation regulation, guaranteeing the tumor‐specific PANoptosis. Specifically, immunogenic PANoptosis triggers dendritic cell maturation and cytotoxic T cell activation, amplifying antitumor immune responses and significantly suppressing osteosarcoma growth, with a suppression rate of ≈73.47 ± 5.2%. In addition, the well‐known bioactivities of Sr‐doped scaffolds expedite osteogenic differentiation and reinforce bone regeneration. Therefore, this work provides a paradigm of logic‐gated sono‐piezoelectric biomaterial platform with concurrently exogenous/endogenous activated PANoptosis for controlled sono‐immunotherapy of osteosarcoma, and related bone defects repair.
Ultra‐Stiff yet Super‐Elastic Graphene Aerogels by Topological Cellular Hierarchy
Authors: Xia Yuxing , Qin Huasong , Tong Wenhao , Qi Yuxiang , Li Kaiwen , Liu Yingjun , Xu Zhen , Liu Yilun , Pang Kai , Gao Chao , Gao Weiwei
Published: December 2024

Lightweight cellular materials with high stiffness and excellent recoverability are critically important in structural engineering applications, but the intrinsic conflict between these two properties presents a significant challenge. Here, a topological cellular hierarchy is presented, designed to fabricate ultra‐stiff (>10 MPa modulus) yet super‐elastic (>90% recoverable strain) graphene aerogels. This topological cellular hierarchy, composed of massive corrugated pores and nanowalls, is designed to carry high loads through predominantly reversible buckling within the honeycomb framework. The compressive modulus of the as‐prepared graphene aerogel is nearly twice that of conventional graphene aerogel. This high‐stiff graphene aerogel also exhibits exceptional mechanical recoverability, achieving up to 60% strain recovery over 10 000 fatigue cycles without significant structural failure, outperforming most previously reported porous lattices and monoliths. It is further demonstrated that this graphene aerogel exhibits superior energy dissipation and anti‐fatigue dynamic impact properties, with an energy absorption capacity nearly an order of magnitude greater than that of conventional aerogels. These exceptional properties of the topological cellular graphene aerogel open new avenues for high‐energy bullet protection, offering great promise for the development of lightweight, armor‐like protective materials in transportation and aerospace applications.
On the Reversibility of Sustainable Symmetric Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Mardi Saeed , Ail Ujwala , Vagin Mikhail , Phopase Jaywant , Crispin Reverant
Published: December 2024

Herein, the effect of electrode anodization on the enhancement of the reversibility and the electrochemical activity of the redox‐active molecule alizarin in both positive and negative electrodes is reported. Alizarin is a bifunctional plant‐based anthraquinone redox species that exhibits irreversibility at positive potential (versus Ag/AgCl). The results show that the anodization of carbon paper increases surface area and introduces functional groups, which in turn promotes reversibility at the positive potential. To demonstrate the applicability of our technique, the modified electrodes are used in a symmetric aqueous organic redox flow battery, showing a significant improvement in capacity retention and Coulombic efficiency compared to pristine carbon electrodes.
On the inherent correlation between the fluidization and flow properties of cohesive powders
Authors: van der Sande P. Christian , Wu Kaiqiao , Kamphorst Rens , Wagner Evert C. , Meesters Gabrie M. H. , van Ommen J. Ruud
Published: December 2024

In this study, we investigate the correlation between fluidization behavior and flow properties of 10 commercially available cohesive powders through fluidization and rotating drum experiments. The rotating drum was operated at high speeds to aerate the powder, creating flow fields and stress conditions comparable to those in gas–solid fluidized beds. We introduce a fluidization quality index (FQI) computed from X‐ray imaging, which addresses the limitations of conventional analyses for assessing fluidization quality of cohesive powders. By analyzing flow patterns, the FQI integrates gas holdup and its temporal variation, providing a reliable measure of fluidization quality. The findings establish a positive correlation between flowability and fluidization quality, demonstrating how flowability measurements can predict the effectiveness of mechanical vibration in enhancing fluidization characteristics. These results suggest that fast, user‐friendly flowability assessments in a rotating drum can effectively predict fluidization potential, contributing to process optimization and advancing fluidization studies for cohesive powders.
Thermal performance of bio‐nanofluid dihydrolevoglucosenone: Experimental and atomistic simulation investigations
Authors: Das Nipu Kumar , Hussain Raghibul , Vatti Anoop Kishore , Banerjee Tamal
Published: December 2024

This work presents findings on using a bio‐nanofluid‐containing Cyrene as a potential bio‐organic thermal base fluid. The fluid thermal properties can be enhanced with 0.03 vol% carboxylic functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube (MWCNT‐COOH) to boost its heat transfer capabilities. The study compares the findings with the commercially available heat transfer fluids, that is, Paratherm GLT and Therminol 55. Furthermore, the stability of the nanofluid was assessed using experiments and atomistic simulation. Additionally, thermophysical characteristics such as thermal conductivity, density, viscosity, and specific heat () were measured. The thermal conductivity at various weight percentages of nanoparticles was determined using the reverse non‐equilibrium molecular dynamics (NEMD) simulations and validated with experimental values. The microstructure of Cyrene on the surface of a single‐walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) and SWCNT‐COOH was examined using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Our study shows that the composition of CNTs and the nanofluid temperature significantly impact the thermal conductivity of pure Cyrene.
BN‐Acene Ladder with Enhanced Charge Transport for Organic Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Li Chenglong , Sun Yanan , Xue Ning , Guo Yongkang , Jiang Ruijun , Wang Yuanhui , Liu Yujian , Jiang Lang , Liu Xuguang , Wang Zhaohui , Jiang Wei
Published: December 2024

The in‐depth research on the charge transport properties of BN‐embedded polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (BN‐PAHs) still lags far behind studies of their emitting properties. Herein, we report the successfully synthesis of novel ladder‐type BN‐PAHs (BCNL1 and BCNL2) featuring a highly ordered BC3N2 acene unit, achieved via a nitrogen‐directed tandem C−H borylation. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis unambiguously revealed their unique and compact herringbone packing structures. Micro‐sized single‐crystalline organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs) demonstrated that an enhanced charge transport capability, with BCNL2 achieving a hole mobility of up to 0.62 cm2 V−1 s−1–three orders of magnitude higher than that of BCNL1 (μhmax=6 × 10−4 cm2 V−1 s−1), ranking among the highest values for BN‐PAHs‐based OFETs. Detailed calculations attribute this significant enhancement in the hole mobility to the marked reduction in reorganization energy (λ) of BCNL2, resulting from the five‐membered pyrrole ring annulation and molecular skeleton elongation. This work provides insight into molecular design principles for potential BN‐PAHs in optoelectronic applications.
Strong Heteroatomic Bond‐Induced Confined Restructuring on Ir−Mn Intermetallics Enable Robust PEM Water Electrolyzers
Authors: Wang Shuang , Shi Yan , Shen Tao , Wang Guangzhe , Sun Yue , Wang Gongwei , Xiao Li , Yan Changfeng , Wang Chundong , Liu Hongfang , Wang Ying , Liao Honggang , Zhuang Lin , Wang Deli
Published: December 2024

Low‐iridium acid‐stabilized electrocatalysts for efficient oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are crucial for the market deployment of proton exchange membrane (PEM) water electrolysis. Manipulating the in situ reconstruction of Ir‐based catalysts with favorable kinetics is highly desirable but remains elusive. Herein, we propose an atomic ordering strategy to modulate the dynamic surface restructuring of catalysts to break the activity/stability trade‐off. Under working conditions, the strong heteroatom‐bonded structure triggers rational surface‐confined reconstruction to form self‐stabilizing amorphous (oxy)hydroxides on the model Ir−Mn intermetallic (IMC). Combined in situ/ex situ characterizations and theoretical analysis demonstrate that the induced strong covalent Ir−O−Mn units in the catalytic layer weaken the formation barrier of OOH* and promote the preferential dynamic replenishment/conversion pathway of H2O molecules to suppress the uncontrollable participation of lattice oxygen (about 2.6 times lower than that of pure Ir). Thus, a PEM cell with Ir−Mn IMC as anode “pre‐electrocatalyst” (0.24 mgIr cm−2) delivers an impressive performance (3.0 A cm−2@1.851 V@80 °C) and runs stably at 2.0 A cm−2 for more than 2,000 h with the cost of USD 0.98 per kg H2, further validating its promising application. This work highlights surface‐confined evolution triggered by strong heteroatom bonds, providing insights into the design of catalysts involving surface reconstruction.
Exploring the Impact of Irrigation on Chinaʼs Crop TFP: Insights From a Structural Break Analysis
Authors: Zhou Tiantian , Liu Xingshuo , Jia Siying , Sheng Yu
Published: December 2024

Investing in agricultural infrastructure, particularly irrigation systems, is crucial for enhancing agricultural productivity and fostering rural development in developing countries. This study evaluates the impact of irrigation infrastructure investments on total factor productivity (TFP) in Chinaʼs crop industry from 1980 to 2018, and also estimates their economic returns across different sub‐periods. We employ a fixed‐effects instrumental variables (FE‐IV) regression model combined with a structural break analysis on provincial‐level data to establish the causal relationship between irrigation investments and TFP growth. The findings reveal that irrigation infrastructure investments have significantly improved TFP in Chinaʼs crop industry over the period, though the marginal returns declined in the last decade. The average internal rate of return for irrigation investments during 2002–2018 is estimated at 11.5%, which is below the long‐term trend of 19.3%. This suggests potential over‐investment or inefficient allocation of resources in recent years, highlighting the need for better optimisation of public investment to sustain productivity gains in agriculture.
Expression Variations of Chloride Ion Channel Related Genes During Diapause Termination in Silkworm, Bombyx mori
Authors: Chen Feifei , Qiu Guoxiang , Sun Jingchen , Yan Huichao , Feng Shizhang , Li Hanbo , Zhong Yangsheng , Han Mingke , Lin Jiangrong , Uddin Memon Fareed , Tian Ling , Li Wenchu
Published: December 2024

Instant and refrigerated acid soaking are commonly used in cocoon production to prevent or break diapause, and provide developable silkworm eggs for sericulture, while their mechanisms have not been fully understood. This study aims to investigate the mechanisms by which hydrochloric acid (HCl) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) promotes embryonic development in silkworm Bombyx mori, focusing on the chloride ion (Cl−) related gene expression profiles. Our results revealed that the HCl treatment of up to 6 min enhanced hatchability in freshly picked and cold‐stored eggs, whereas a slight decrease in hatchability was observed in those treated with DMSO for 40 min. The genes encoding chloride ion channel proteins were cloned and transcriptionally analyzed by quantitative real‐time PCR in B. mori 932 strain. Bioinformatics analysis showed that BmCLIC, BmGluCl, and Bmγ‐Cl mainly clustered with Lepidopteran insect homologs, while there existed a relatively low conservation from B. mori to mammals. We further explored the mRNA levels of BmCLIC, BmGluCl, and Bmγ‐Cl in different egg processing conditions and embryonic developmental stages following HCl or DMSO treatments. Our results revealed that the mRNA expression profiles of BmCLIC, BmGluCl, and Bmγ‐Cl increased in 20 h post‐egg oviposition and refrigerated eggs after acid soaking. Moreover, the relative expression level of BmCLIC and BmGluCl gene was the highest on the first day, and maximum relative expression level of Bmγ‐Cl gene presented on the second day in diapause eggs after treatment, and then it showed diversity. The expression profiles of the candidate genes seem like the same trend of changes during the development of eggs treated with instant acid soaking or DMSO treatment. In general, in the production practice of soaking silkworm eggs with HCl or DMSO, Cl− channel is likely to play an important subsidiary role to promot the relieving of diapause.
Beyond the blade: Unveiling the nexus of spirituality and human dissection among medical and allied health students in Nigeria
Authors: Okafor Izuchukwu Azuka , Nnaka Jude Amechi , Suleiman Muritala Odidi , Erekosima Boma Uriah , Mbagwu Smart Ikechukwu , Ibeabuchi Kingsley Chinemerem , Gbadegesin Ojo Stephen , Uzomba Godwin Chinedu , Aliyu Aliyu Isah
Published: December 2024

This study investigated how human dissection affects students' spiritual beliefs, and how their existing spiritual beliefs influence their perceptions of human dissection. This cross‐sectional study assessed 760 medical students with human dissection experience using an online questionnaire developed from interviews and the Spirituality Orientation Inventory, including questions on dissection experience, spirituality, spiritual perceptions about dissection, and the impact of dissection on spirituality. Descriptive analysis and Chi‐squared tests were used to determine proportions and relationships between variables, with statistical significance at p < 0.05. Most students believe in an afterlife (75.1%), the concept of the soul (92.5%), and the human body as a vessel for the soul (91.3%). About half disagree that human dissection is disrespectful, and faith influences life choices for the majority (95.2%). Human dissection experience lowered students' belief in spirits' interaction with the physical world by 5%, increased their respect for the body (76.2%), and increased their self‐reflection on mortality (84.4%). Despite the lack of profound mystical experiences (82.5%) resulting from the students' dissection experience, there were significant gender differences in the few reported experiences (p = 0.008). Also, there was a significant increase in students' belief in the human spirit following human dissection (p = 0.019). Dissection experience prompts students to reconsider their beliefs and their views of the human body. Despite retaining beliefs in the afterlife and the soul, students' belief in spirits' interaction with the physical world decreases marginally post‐dissection. This study also shows that human dissection is not associated with mystical experiences.
Discrete‐Time Risk Model With Time‐Varying Premiums: Analysis of Ruin Probabilities
Authors: Osatakul Dhiti , Li Shuanming , Wu Xueyuan
Published: December 2024

Our paper explores a discrete‐time risk model with time‐varying premiums, investigating two types of correlated claims: main claims and by‐claims. Settlement of the by‐claims can be delayed for up to two time periods, representing real‐world insurance practices. We examine a premium principle based on reported claims, using recursively computable finite‐time ruin probabilities to evaluate the performance of time‐varying premiums. Our findings suggest that, under specific assumptions, a higher probability of by‐claim settlement delays leads to lower ruin probabilities. Moreover, a stronger correlation between main claims and their associated by‐claims results in higher ruin probabilities.
Medical Ultrasound Application Beyond Diagnosis: Insights From Ultrasound Sensing and Biological Response
Authors: Lai Yubo , Tao Wenxin , Wang Lantian , Liu Zhaoyou , Wu Pengying , Yang Guodong , Yuan Lijun
Published: December 2024

Ultrasound (US) can easily penetrate media with excellent spatial precision corresponding to its wavelength. Naturally, US plays a pivotal role in the echolocation abilities of certain mammals such as bats and dolphins. In addition, medical US generated by transducers interact with tissues via delivering ultrasonic energy in the modes of heat generation, exertion of acoustic radiation force (ARF), and acoustic cavitation. Based on the principle of echolocation, various assistive devices for visual impairment people have been developed. High‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) are developed for targeted ablation and tissue destruction. Besides thermal ablation, histotripsy with US is designed to damage tissue purely via mechanical effect without thermal coagulation. Low‐Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) has been proven to be an effective stimulation method for neuromodulation. Furthermore, US has been reported to transiently increase the permeability of biological membranes, enabling acoustic transfection and blood‐brain barrier open. All of these advances in US are changing the clinic. This review mainly introduces the advances in these aspects, focusing on the physical and biological principles, challenges, and future direction.
Propofol Suppresses Ferroptosis via Modulating eNOS/NO Signaling Pathway to Improve Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Zheng Zi‐Lei , Wang Xu‐Peng , Hu Yu‐Fei , Li Wen‐Guang , Zhou Qi , Xu Fang , Wang Qiu‐Jun
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the neuroprotective effect of propofol in improving traumatic brain injury (TBI) by inhibiting ferroptosis through the modulation of the endothelial nitric oxide (NO) synthase (eNOS)/NO signaling pathway.

Methods

The GSE173975 dataset was used to analyze the differentially expressed genes between TBI and sham surgery control groups in the short and long term. A TBI model was established in 2‐month‐old male SPF C57BL/6 mice by impact exposure of the exposed dura mater. After the establishment of the TBI model, propofol (30 mg/kg) or saline was administered via intraperitoneal injection for intervention. Nissl staining and Perls staining were employed to assess neuronal function and iron deposition, respectively. Western blot technology was employed to detect the expression of proteins related to ferroptosis. Immunofluorescence staining of astrocytes and microglia was utilized to assess the neuroinflammatory response induced by TBI. The Morris water maze (MWM) and novel object recognition (NOR) tests were employed to assess cognitive dysfunction induced by TBI.

Findings

Bioinformatics analysis revealed aberrant gene expression associated with iron transport, neuronal death, and inflammatory response in the initial stages of TBI. Long‐term abnormalities were predominantly linked to genes involved in inflammatory response. Perls staining and protein expression analysis confirmed the occurrence of iron deposition and ferroptosis following TBI. Propofol treatment significantly reduced iron deposition and ferroptosis induced by TBI. Nissl staining demonstrated enhanced neuronal function, while TUNEL staining indicated reduced neuronal apoptosis. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that propofol significantly reduced the proliferation of astrocytes and activation of microglia induced by TBI in the long term. The results of MWM and NOR tests indicated that propofol significantly improved the long‐term cognitive dysfunction induced by TBI. Propofol exerts neuroprotective effects by increasing the expression of eNOS protein and the content of NO. The neuroprotective effects of propofol can be reversed by the eNOS inhibitor L‐NAME.

Conclusion

Propofol significantly improves the prognosis of TBI by inhibiting ferroptosis through the modulation of the eNOS/NO signaling pathway. The study results provide a scientific basis for the clinical use of propofol as a neuroprotective agent and offer a new direction for the development of new treatment strategies for TBI.
A Comparative Meta‐Analysis on the Association of lncRNAs MALAT1, HOTAIR, and AFAP1‐AS1 With the Risk of Developing Lymph Node Metastasis in Lung Cancer
Authors: Tasnim Anha , Sumaiya Afra Anjum , Noman Abdullah Al , Tahsin Anika , Saba Abdullah Al , Ahmed Rubaiat , Yasmin Tahirah , Nabi A. H. M. Nurun
Published: December 2024

Background

Numerous studies have demonstrated the significance of long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) in the development of cancer metastasis. The expression levels of many lncRNAs are elevated in metastatic lung cancer patients compared to non‐metastatic lung cancer patients.

Objectives

The primary objective of the study was to investigate the association between the expression levels of three lncRNAs (MALAT1, HOTAIR, and AFAP1‐AS1) and lymph node metastasis (LNM) of lung cancer.

Methods

Cell Press, PubMed, SpringerLink, Web of Science, and Google Scholar were explored to perform the literature search. After screening 1862 articles, 66 English‐language articles were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. From those articles, 17 publications comprising 1622 lung cancer patients were chosen for statistical analyses as well as quality assessment tests.

Results

Forest plot analysis revealed that there was a significant difference in the incidence of LNM between the high and low MALAT1 expression groups (OR = 3.21, 95% CI: 1.34–7.67; random effects model). Significant differences were also observed in the incidence of LNM between patients with high and low HOTAIR expression levels (OR = 4.17, 95% CI: 1.47–11.82; random effects model). The expression level of AFAP1‐AS1 was found to be significantly associated with LNM in lung cancer (OR = 2.31, 95% CI: 1.39–3.85, random effects model). Additional analysis from GEPIA and GEO databases revealed that the expression levels of these lncRNAs vary according to the type of tumor tissue, organ of metastasis, and cancer stage. However, these databases show that the result for AFAP1‐AS1 is the most aligned with the meta‐analysis's findings. Furthermore, several quality assessment tests showed that the AFAP1‐AS1 studies are more reliable compared to the studies of other lncRNAs.

Conclusion

This study suggested that LNM in lung cancer patients is associated mostly with an elevated AFAP1‐AS1 lncRNA level among the pool of three lncRNAs analyzed. Before these results can be implemented in a clinical setting, it is essential to conduct further validation and undertake comprehensive analysis to ensure robustness and reliability.
Simultaneous Coproduction of Xylonic Acid and Xylitol: Leveraging In Situ Hydrogen Generation and Utilization from Xylose
Authors: Awad Ali , Valekar Anil H. , Oh Kyung‐Ryul , Prihatno Fajar , Jung Jaehoon , Nimbalkar Ajaysing S. , Upare Pravin P. , Hoon Kim Ji , Kyu Hwang Young
Published: December 2024

Pentose oxidation and reduction, processes yielding value‐added sugar‐derived acids and alcohols, typically involve separate procedures necessitating distinct reaction conditions. In this study, a novel one‐pot reaction for the concurrent production of xylonic acid and xylitol from xylose is proposed. This reaction was executed at ambient temperature in the presence of a base, eliminating the need for external gases, by leveraging Pt‐supported catalysts. Initial experiments using commercially available metal‐supported carbon catalysts validated the superior activity of Pt. However, a notable decline in recycling performance was observed in Pt/C, which is attributed to the sintering of Pt nanoparticles. In contrast, the synthesized Pt‐supported ZrO2 catalysts exhibited enhanced recycling performance because of the strong metal–support interaction between Pt and the ZrO2 support. Furthermore, mechanistic insights and density functional theory calculations show that product desorption involves a significantly higher energy barrier compared to substrate adsorption and hydrogenation, highlighting an efficient transfer hydrogenation mechanism leading to equivalent yields of both xylonic acid and xylitol. This study introduces a promising approach for the simultaneous production of sugar‐derived acids and alcohols, with implications for sustainable catalysis and process optimization.
Dynamic Behavior of Ionic and Electronic Phenomena in Perovskite Solar Cells Analyzed Through Poles and Zeros of the Transfer Function of Impedance
Authors: Abrego‐Martínez Paola Gabriela , Corpus‐Mendoza Asiel N. , Moreno‐Romero Paola Marcela , Torres‐Herrera D. Mateus , Rodríguez‐Castañeda Carlos A. , Miranda‐Hernández Margarita , Hu Hailin
Published: December 2024

Understanding the physics of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) is crucial for their development. For this reason, we investigate the frequency‐dependent response of PSCs aided by an electronic equivalent circuit to distinguish between ionic and electronic behavior at the interfaces and the bulk materials of the cells, respectively. The dynamic behavior of both effects is analyzed in terms of voltage drop within the solar cell as a function of source voltage. It is observed that higher quality PSCs show a sharp transition from ionic to electronic behavior as voltage increases, whereas lower quality PSCs show a smooth and slow transition. Also, the analysis of poles and zeros of the transfer function of impedance as a function of bias voltage reveals the point where the ionic behavior at the interfaces becomes irrelevant and the electronic properties in the bulk become dominant in terms of impedance and voltage drop. Therefore, the analysis of poles and zeros becomes a viable and novel characterization technique to investigate the dynamic behavior of bulk and interface phenomena in PSCs.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis of basal microbiota and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease: A potential target for treatment or a contributor to disease progression?
Authors: Jimenez‐García Ana Maria , Villarino Maria , Arias Natalia
Published: December 2024

A systematic review and meta‐analysis examined the impact of gut microbiota in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Dysbiosis may influence neurodegeneration by affecting gut permeability and neurotrophic factors, leading to cognitive decline. The study analyzed microbiome differences between patients with AD and healthy individuals, as well as the impact of various interventions in both preclinical and clinical studies. Of 60 studies reviewed, 12 were excluded from the meta‐analysis due to unsuitable data or lack of control groups. Meta‐analyses revealed significant cognitive impairment in AD patients and animal models, with specific tests identifying these deficits. Notably, Bacteroides levels were higher in patients with AD, whereas probiotics improved Prevotella levels. Natural treatments increased Bacteroidetes and reduced Firmicutes in animal models. The findings emphasize the need for standardized methods to develop therapies targeting the gut microbiota to restore cognition in AD. Understanding individual dysbiosis could further clarify the cognitive effects of the gut–brain axis.

Highlights

Dysbiosis in the gut microbiota is linked to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Patients with AD show significant differences in Bacteroides levels compared to healthy individuals.

Probiotic treatments increase Prevotella levels in AD animal models.

Natural agents boost Bacteroidetes and reduce Firmicutes in AD animal models.

Human studies show no consistent effects of gut microbiota interventions on cognitive function in AD.
Introducing a Software‐Based Template for Standardized Structured Reports of Urinary Cytology and Its Impact on Turnaround Time in a Tertiary Center
Authors: Radulović Maja Kebe , Cimerman Damjana , Fležar Margareta Strojan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Standardized pathology reports enhance completeness and readability, contributing to the overall improvement in the management of patients. The standardization of urine cytology reporting has gained widespread acceptance with the use of the Paris system (TPS) for reporting urinary cytology, primarily focused on detecting high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (HGUC). The next phase at the Institute of Pathology, Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, was the implementation of TPS, including standardized additional findings on non–neoplastic changes, into a software‐based standardized structured reporting (SBSSR) system.

Methods

The implementation of SBSSR for urinary cytology at the Institute of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia, began in March 2023. Before daily usage, the SBSSR template was tested and approved by all cytopathology team members. An informative briefing for clinicians was organized to facilitate inter‐specialty communication. To assess the impact of the SBSSR system on reporting efficiency, the turnaround time was tracked from the receipt of the cytology sample in the lab to the time of digital signature on its diagnostic report during two consecutive 11‐month periods (04/01/2022–03/01/2023 and 04/01/2023–03/01/2024).

Results

All team members easily adopted the new SBSSR for urinary cytology. Reports are generated, costs are calculated, and they are digitally signed in a single step. The adoption of SBSSR for urinary cytology led to the replacement of dictation and administrative tasks. The average turnaround time for urine cytology has been reduced from 1,8 days (based on 2843 samples) to 1,5 days (based on 3438 samples).

Conclusions

The introduction of SBSSR for urinary cytology increased the quality of patient care with a shorter time to diagnosis and a higher level of report clarity.
Development and Application of 3D‐Printed Electrochemical Sensors for Ciprofloxacin Detection
Authors: Henriques Brunna F. , Neumann Amanda , Bertolim Lucas V. , de Freitas Rafaela C. , Silva Luiz R. G. , Stefano Jéssica S. , Janegitz Bruno C.
Published: December 2024

The production of electrochemical devices and systems using additive manufacturing technology, particularly three‐dimensional (3D) printing, has proven to be highly promising. This work reports the development of 3D‐printed electrochemical sensors for the determination of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP). To achieve this, a lab‐made conductive filament composed of carbon black (CB) and polylactic acid (PLA) was produced and utilized in the fabrication of the sensors. Additionally, an electrochemical cell was constructed using a nonconductive filament, resulting in a miniaturized and entirely additively manufactured platform. The characterization of the proposed CB–PLA sensor was carried out using scanning electron microscopy and electrochemical techniques. The proposed sensor has shown a linear range of 1.0–12.5 µmol L−1, with a sensitivity of 3.77 µA µmol−1 L, and limits of detection and quantification of 0.3 and 0.9 µmol L−1 for CIP, respectively. Regarding the analysis of the samples (tap water and synthetic urine), it was observed recovery values close to 100% for all samples. Thus, the 3D‐printed electrochemical device presents itself as a high‐potential alternative for CIP drug control, with the possibility of being used in the field and point of care.
Determination of Fluoroquinolones Antibiotics in Water by Polyrutin Film‐Modified Electrochemical Sensor
Authors: Qiu Jiao , Gou Wanglei , Chen Wen , Gao JingFeng
Published: December 2024

This study is aimed at the determination of a new pollutant, fluoroquinolones antibiotics (FQs). Taking ciprofloxacin (CIP) as the research representative, rutin polymer film‐modified sensor polyrutin modified glass carbon electrode (PRT/GCE) was prepared by electropolymerization, and a new analytical method for the determination of FQs was established, which is environmentally friendly, simple, efficient, and economical. The topography, elemental composition, and electrochemical behavior of the sensor were investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), and cyclic voltammetry (CV). The results showed that the linear range of the PRT/GCE sensor used for CIP was 0.8–50 μM, the detection limit was 0.050 μM, and the recovery rate was 94.9%–104%. In addition, when it was used to detect norfloxacin (NOR), enrofloxacin (ENR), pefloxacin (PEF), and rofloxacin (FLE) in FQs, the sensor similarly exhibited a broad linear range; its corresponding detection limits were 0.078, 0.16, 0.088, and 0.12 μM, respectively. The PRT/GCE sensor had a high active area, good catalytic performance for FQs, simple preparation, stable performance, and reusability. It has potential application value for routine determination of fluoroquinolones in real water.
Investigating the Impact of Copper and Zinc Doping in High‐Entropy Prussian Blue Analogues for Na‐Ion Batteries: From Material Analysis to Device Fabrication
Authors: Naskar Pappu , Mondal Pallav , Biswas Biplab , Laha Sourav , Banerjee Anjan
Published: December 2024

High‐entropy Prussian blue analogues (HE‐PBAs) show great promise as active materials in Na‐ion batteries, particularly due to their multimetallic synergism that enhances electrochemical performance. This study explores two HE‐PBAs: Na2Mn0.2Fe0.2Co0.2Ni0.2Cu0.2Fe(CN)6 (HE‐PBA‐1) and Na2Mn0.2Fe0.2Co0.2Ni0.2Zn0.2Fe(CN)6 (HE‐PBA‐2). Both crystallize in monoclinic (P21/n) symmetry, but HE‐PBA‐1, with Cu, exhibits a lower bandgap, lower Na‐ion diffusion barrier, higher [Fe(CN)6] vacancy, and smaller particle size compared to HE‐PBA‐2 with Zn. These factors result in higher power capability for HE‐PBA‐1 due to its enhanced electronic conductivity and Na‐ion diffusivity. Additionally, its higher [Fe(CN)6] vacancy and smaller particle size offer more electrochemical active sites, improving energy characteristics. A Na‐ion full cell with HE‐PBA‐1 as the positive electrode and a mixed‐metallic sodium–copper–iron oxide (NaCuFe‐Oxide) as the negative electrode in a hydrogel electrolyte is assembled. It achieves a specific capacity of 94 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1, an energy density of 70 Wh kg−1 at 74 W kg−1, a power density of 375 W kg−1 at 57 Wh kg−1, and excellent durability with 89% capacity retention over 500 cycles at 200 mA g−1 within a 0–2 V window. A 5 V/3 mAh prototype device is tested with a solar charging module to evaluate its real‐life feasibility.
Double‐Edged Sword Effect of Jasmonoyl‐Isoleucine on the Parasite–Host Interaction Between Field Dodder and Lentil
Authors: Jené Laia , Munné‐Bosch Sergi
Published: December 2024

Many holoparasitic plants are well‐known for their negative impacts on crops, yet the underlying mechanisms behind the interaction between holoparasitic plants and their hosts are still poorly understood. This study investigates the role of stress‐induced phytohormones on the relationship between field dodder (Cuscuta campestris) and lentil plants (Lens culinaris), a model for parasitic plant‐host interaction in legumes. We evaluated the impact of parasitism on host phenology, vegetative growth, and yield. In addition, stress markers and spatiotemporal variations in endogenous levels of stress‐related phytohormones were measured. Parasitism had a drastic effect on yield by accelerating plant phenology, enhancing plant senescence, and deregulating pod maturation. Moreover, an antagonistic relationship between jasmonates and abscisic acid (ABA) was observed in field dodder during the attachment of haustoria to the host, such that the content of the bioactive jasmonate, jasmonoyl‐isoleucine (contrary to ABA), was very high in free haustoria (prior to attachment). Finally, the content of jasmonoyl‐isoleucine increased in the host plant, although this defense response in young leaves was not sufficient to prevent severe loss of PSII integrity. This demonstrates that jasmonoyl‐isoleucine is up‐regulated in both free‐haustoria field dodder and infested lentil plants, suggesting that this bioactive jasmonate form has a universal protective role in both sides of the interaction between parasitic plant and host.