bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Edge $k$-$q$-Colorability of Graphs
Authors: Djelloul Selma , Favaron Odile , Kouider Mekkia
Published: March 2018

Given positive integers $k$, $q$, we say that a graph is edge $k$-$q$-colorable
if its edges can be colored
in such a way that the number of colors
incident to each vertex is at most $q$ and that the size of a largest
color class is at most $k$. The problem of minimizing $k$ for a given $q$ was
considered in [T. Larjomaa and A. Popa,
The min-max Edge q-coloring Problem, Journal of Graph Algorithms and
Applications, vol 19(1) pp. 505-528 (2015)]. In this paper, we first fix $k=2$
and give an $O(\min\;\{m^2\sqrt{n/\log m}\;,\;nm^{1.5}\})$-time algorithm which
given an arbitrary graph $G$ with $n$ vertices and $m$ edges,
and a positive integer $q$ decides whether $G$ is
$2$-$q$-colorable and outputs a $2$-$q$-coloring
if such a coloring exists. Then, we fix $q=2$ and we focus on cubic graphs.
In particular, we prove that every cubic graph admits a
$4$-$2$-coloring such that the corresponding edge decomposition uses only paths.
We give an $O(n\log ^2n)$-time algorithm constructing such a decomposition.
Optimizing Pain Control in a Patient with Lumbar Spinal Stenosis: A Report of Clinical Management
Authors: Kennedy Raymond E. , Hildebrand Christopher
Published: March 2018

Lumbar spinal stenosis is a leading cause of low back pain and one of the most common causes of work absences. Treatment is initialized with narcotic and non-narcotic medications, which have been shown to work in the majority of patients. For those who do not find relief with medications and seek pain/symptom relief, invasive spinal surgery is the last resort.This case describes the escalation and dose titration of narcotic and non-narcotic medications in a patient with worsening lumbar spinal stenosis that was unable to proceed with surgical intervention for the next several months and had failed his prior outpatient pain regimen. Proper titration of a basal narcotic dose in addition to optimizing non-narcotic medications, including muscle relaxants, proved to better control pain in the interim until surgical intervention. Our case shows how several different teams of physicians and non-physician providers collaborated to optimize pain control using several different treatment regimens with different doses and routes until a safe and effective plan was created for long-term use.
Des textes officiels à la pratique singulière, quelle posture pour un formateur en situation d’accompagner ? Etude de cas
Authors: GUILLEMOT Valerie
Published: March 2018

Cet article s’intéresse à l’activité de formation professionnelle pour adultes. Il s’appuie sur le contexte de la France, où existe un Référentiel Emploi Activité Compétences, ainsi qu’un Référentiel de Certification correspondant au titre professionnel de Formateur pour Adultes, inscrit au Répertoire National de la Certification Professionnel au niveau III (http://www.cncp.gouv.fr/). A partir d’une étude documentaire et d’un cas de formateur, nous proposons d’explorer ce qui est attendu d’une part et ce qui est pratiqué d’autre part, pour des formateurs à qui échoit une mission d’accompagnement. Après avoir repéré des contradictions dans les textes officiels qui décrivent les activités de formateur en France, nous préciserons le cadre théorique principal mobilisé. partir du discours d’un cas de formateur à propos de son activité d’accompagnement, nous distinguerons ce qui relève effectivement de l’accompagnement et au contraire, ce qui s’inscrit dans le guidage. Ce cas nous amènera à pointer l’enjeu qu’il y a à former les formateurs aux modèles de la relation éducative et en particulier à l’accompagnement afin de leur permettre d’assumer pleinement la posture de guidage dont relève en priorité l’activité de formateur.
Playing by the rules? Phenotypic adaptation to temperate environments in an American marsupial
Authors: Nigenda-Morales Sergio F. , Harrigan Ryan J. , Wayne Robert K.
Published: March 2018

Phenotypic variation along environmental gradients can provide evidence suggesting local adaptation has shaped observed morphological disparities. These differences, in traits such as body and extremity size, as well as skin and coat pigmentation, may affect the overall fitness of individuals in their environments. The Virginia opossum (Didelphis virginiana) is a marsupial that shows phenotypic variation across its range, one that has recently expanded into temperate environments. It is unknown, however, whether the variation observed in the species fits adaptive ecogeographic patterns, or if phenotypic change is associated with any environmental factors. Using phenotypic measurements of over 300 museum specimens of Virginia opossum, collected throughout its distribution range, we applied regression analysis to determine if phenotypes change along a latitudinal gradient. Then, using predictors from remote-sensing databases and a random forest algorithm, we tested environmental models to find the most important variables driving the phenotypic variation. We found that despite the recent expansion into temperate environments, the phenotypic variation in the Virginia opossum follows a latitudinal gradient fitting three adaptive ecogeographic patterns codified under Bergmann’s, Allen’s and Gloger’s rules. Temperature seasonality was an important predictor of body size variation, with larger opossums occurring at high latitudes with more seasonal environments. Annual mean temperature predicted important variation in extremity size, with smaller extremities found in northern populations. Finally, we found that precipitation and temperature seasonality as well as low temperatures were strong environmental predictors of skin and coat pigmentation variation; darker opossums are distributed at low latitudes in warmer environments with higher precipitation seasonality. These results indicate that the adaptive mechanisms underlying the variation in body size, extremity size and pigmentation are related to the resource seasonality, heat conservation, and pathogen-resistance hypotheses, respectively. Our findings suggest that marsupials may be highly susceptible to environmental changes, and in the case of the Virginia opossum, the drastic phenotypic evolution in northern populations may have arisen rapidly, facilitating the colonization of seasonal and colder habitats of temperate North America.
Infection byParorchis acanthus(Trematoda) decreases grazing by the keystone gastropod,Littoraria irrorata
Authors: Morton Joseph P.
Published: March 2018

Parasites are well-known to alter the behavior of their hosts, but there is still a paucity of knowledge about how parasites modify the behavior of many ecologically influential host species. I studied the keystone grazer, the salt marsh periwinkle(Littoraria irrorata),to determine the influence of infection by the digenetic trematode,Parorchis acanthus,on its grazing behavior. Comparative laboratory grazing studies of wild-collected and experimentally infected snails revealed thatParorchisdecreased grazing on liveSpartinaby more than 80%. Because of the large ecological influence ofLittorariain southern U.S. marshes, parasite modification of snail grazing may have ramifications for marsh ecosystem stability if parasite prevalence is sufficiently high.
Increasing Medicare Savings Program Enrollment—Improving Affordability of Care
Authors: Patel Syama R. , Ruggiero Dominic A. , Roberts Eric T.
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint examines gaps in take-up of the Medicare Savings Programs among older adults and people with disabilities in the US and opportunities for further reforms to increase enrollment.
Low-Dose Naltrexone Use in Biopsy-Proven Lichen Planus of the Nails
Authors: Bray Eric R. , Morrison Brian W.
Published: October 2024

Importance

Nail lichen planus has the potential to cause permanent destruction of the nail unit and remains challenging to treat. Studies suggest that low-dose naltrexone is a safe and potentially effective treatment for other dermatologic conditions, including lichen planopilaris.

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of low-dose naltrexone in treating nail lichen planus.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This case series evaluates 7 adult patients with biopsy-proven nail lichen planus who were treated with low-dose naltrexone (3 mg per day) at the University of Miami dermatologic clinics from November 2022 to December 2023. The data were analyzed in March 2024. Patients were treated for at least 2 months and had in-person follow-up evaluation while receiving treatment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The main outcome was posttreatment clinical nail lichen planus severity index, which was scored as clear, mild, moderate, or severe. Patients were evaluated for oral and cutaneous disease during the course of treatment. Tolerance and adverse events were noted.

Results

A total of 7 patients (mean [range] age, 60 [38-77] years; 3 female individuals) were included. All but 1 patient had been previously treated and did not respond to at least 1 prior treatment (median [range], 2.5 [0-4.0] treatments). Treatment duration ranged from 2 to 11 months. Clinical response was observed in 4 of 7 patients, with an overall 35% reduction in nail lichen planus severity index. Two patients with severe disease achieved a reduction to mild severity. None of the patients had to discontinue low-dose naltrexone due to adverse events, and no adverse events were reported.

Conclusions and Relevance

The results of this study suggest that low-dose naltrexone may be a therapeutic approach for treating nail lichen planus. Further controlled studies are warranted to better understand its clinical efficacy and safety profile in treating nail lichen planus.
Successful Treatment of Recalcitrant Chloracne With Adalimumab in an Older Man
Authors: Saini Poonam , Kumar Nitish , Kansal Naveen Kumar , Singh Ashok , Gnanamani Elumalai , Kumar Naveen , Bhatia Riti
Published: October 2024

This case report describes a man in his 60s with recalcitrant chloracne caused by chlorantraniliprole, a chlorinated pesticide, exposure successfully treated with adalimumab.
Liver Transplant Using Normothermic Machine Perfusion in Patients With High-Acuity Illness
Authors: Ebaid Samer S. , Kimelman Francesca A. , Maeda Koki , Chandler Christopher S. , Agopian Vatche G. , Farmer Douglas G. , Kaldas Fady M.
Published: October 2024

This case-control study compares outcomes of normothermic machine perfusion vs static cold storage used in liver transplant for complex patients.
Elimination of the Percentile Score From the Surgical ABSITE—The Resident Perspective
Authors: Wheelwright Matthew , Jenkins Jonathan , Siems Chesney
Published: October 2024

This Viewpoint describes the elimination of the percentile score from the American Board of Surgery In-Training Examination (ABSITE) from the resident’s perspective.
Communication behavior and space utilization of office workers in a research facility's activity‐based workplace
Authors: Tokumura Tomoko , Takahashi Hiroki , Wada Kazuki , Takahashi Mikio , Tanabe Shin‐ichi
Published: October 2024

This study explores the pre‐ and post‐renovation differences in communication behaviors of office workers at a construction company's research facility that had carried out renovations to promote open innovation through internal and external interactions. We conducted an analysis by combining both objective survey of conversation time, conversation partners, and stay location information using sensing terminals and subjective evaluations by office workers using a questionnaire survey. As the work style transitioned from fixed seats pre‐renovation to activity‐based working post‐renovation, the attendance rate analysis around each worker's personal workspace throughout the measurement period decreased from 74% to 60%, and the tendency to use various places in the office increased. Additionally, the number of conversation partners increased by 1.9 times on average and inter‐department conversation rate increased from 46% to 53% when activity‐based working was performed post‐renovation. However, while the introduction of activity‐based working significantly increased the level of communication satisfaction among workers in other departments, it tended to decrease the level of communication satisfaction within a department. This study maintains that organizational and operational efforts must sustain and promote intra‐departmental communication when activity‐based working is introduced and confirms that the introduction of activity‐based working was effective in promoting interaction between office workers.
Altered exosomal miRNA profiles in patients with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
Authors: Tveit Solheim Eirik , Vestrheim Thomsen Liv Cecilie , Bjørge Line , Anandan Shamundeeswari , Peter Elise , Desestret Virginie , Totland Cecilie , Vedeler Christian A.
Published: October 2024

Objective

Patients with ovarian cancer (OC) may develop anti‐Yo‐associated paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD)—a cerebellar ataxia associated with tumor‐induced autoimmunity against CDR2 and CDR2L proteins. Dysregulation of circulating exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) occur in OC. Here, we investigated whether PCD is associated with changes in the exosomal miRNA profiles of OC patients.

Methods

Serum exosomes were isolated from patients with OC (n = 15), patients with OC and anti‐Yo‐associated PCD (n = 14) and healthy controls (HC, n = 15). Small RNA sequencing was used to identify differentially expressed miRNAs. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate biomarker sensitivity and specificity, and miRNA target prediction analysis was employed to elucidate gene targets.

Results

OC patients with PCD exhibited a distinct exosomal miRNA expression profile. We detected 103 differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs in PCD patients compared to OC patients without PCD and 139 differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs compared to controls. Particularly miR‐486‐5p, miR‐4732‐5p, miR‐98‐5p and miR‐21‐5p exhibited notable sensitivity and specificity for discriminating PCD patients from both OC patients without PCD and healthy controls. miRNA target prediction showed that several of the differentially expressed miRNAs in PCD patients targeted the CDR2 and CDR2L genes.

Interpretation

Our results demonstrate that OC patients with anti‐Yo‐associated PCD exhibit a distinct exosomal miRNA profile compared to OC patients without PCD. Several of the differentially expressed exosomal miRNAs in PCD patients showed diagnostic potential and may hold relevance for understanding the pathogenesis of PCD.
FGF‐Mimicking Triphen[3]arene Peptide Self‐Assembly to Accelerate Muscle Regeneration and Repair
Authors: Ding Jiaming , Wang Zhongyan , Lu Jiayi , Feng Yinyin , Wang Jiayu , Zhu Qingrun , Wu Jiabin , Shang Yuna , Kuang Mingjie , Li Chunju
Published: October 2024

Bioactive peptides play crucial roles in the biomedicine fields including cancer therapy and regenerative medicine due to their favorable biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and excellent biological activity. However, their low stability greatly limits their clinical application. Herein, a novel bioactive peptide delivery strategy is reported that utilizes triphen[3]arene polyvalent‐conjugated bioactive peptides to induce self‐assembly and form nanofibers to enhance the in vivo stability and bioactivity of bioactive peptides. Specifically, a water‐soluble triphen[3]arene (WTP3(YRSRK)6, Comp. 2) containing six FGF‐mimicking peptides, primarily comprising two components: triphen[3]arene serves as a skeleton molecule and an assembly motif with multiple customizable sites, while YRSRK is a pentapeptide with fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF‐2) biological activity. Despite the presence of the inhibitor dexamethasone (Dex), Comp. 2 continued to enhance cell proliferation by 15% and rescued 17% of cells from apoptosis. The administration of Comp. 2 resulted in improved restoration of skeletal muscle atrophy and functional damage in mice. The mean grip strength increased by 42%, and the calf muscle volume increased by 17%. This innovative approach of utilizing macrocycle polyvalent conjugated bioactive peptides offers a universal method for enabling bioactive peptides to produce sustained and efficient biological effects, potentially advancing the development of promising peptide‐based nanomedicines.
Localized Flexoelectric Effect Around Ba(CuNb) Nano‐Clusters in Epitaxial BiFeO3 Films for Enhancement of Electric and Multiferroic Properties
Authors: Song Hyunseok , Hwang Soo‐Yoon , Sung Kil‐Dong , Cheng Xiaoxing , Jung Jong Hoon , Park Jung‐Min , Kumar Ashok , Kim Kee Hoon , Chung Sung‐Yoon , Kim Seung‐Wook , Chen Long‐Qing , Eom Chang‐Beom , Jeong Dae‐Yong , Choi Si‐Young , Ryu Jungho
Published: October 2024

Room‐temperature (RT) multiferroic materials have received significant research attention for various potential applications; however, their properties are not suitable for real‐world implementation. In this study, a nano‐scale localized flexoelectric effect is introduced to enhance the RT multiferroic performance of epitaxial bismuth iron oxide (BiFeO3; BFO) thin films by embedding 10 mol% Ba(Cu1/3Nb2/3)O3 (BCN) nano‐clusters into the host BFO film, which originally has a rhombohedral crystal structure. By utilizing nano‐clustering, a large out‐of‐plane coherent strain is localized around the nano‐clusters, resulting in a highly strained tetragonality of the BFO structure; subsequently, the films exhibit peculiar types of domains and domain walls, such as nano‐scale rotational vortices and antiparallel dipole configurations. These peculiar domain structures, which originate from the localized flexoelectric effect at the nano‐scale, enable excellent ferroelectric, ferromagnetic, and RT multiferroic magnetoelectric coupling. This study reveals that the local variation in the localized flexoelectric field around nano‐clusters considerably impacts the formation of unusual domain‐wall structures. This suggests that the controlled introduction of nano‐clusters with different crystal structures is promising for achieving the desired multiferroic properties.
Magnetic Field‐Induced Polar Order in Monolayer Molybdenum Disulfide Transistors
Authors: Hao Duxing , Chang Wen‐Hao , Chang Yu‐Chen , Liu Wei‐Tung , Ho Sheng‐Zhu , Lu Chen‐Hsuan , Yang Tilo H. , Kawakami Naoya , Chen Yi‐Chun , Liu Ming‐Hao , Lin Chun‐Liang , Lu Ting‐Hua , Lan Yann‐Wen , Yeh Nai‐Chang
Published: October 2024

In semiconducting monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (ML‐TMDs), broken inversion symmetry and strong spin‐orbit coupling result in spin‐valley lock‐in effects so that the valley degeneracy may be lifted by external magnetic fields, potentially leading to real‐space structural transformation. Here, magnetic field (B)‐induced giant electric hysteretic responses to back‐gate voltages are reported in ML‐MoS2 field‐effect transistors (FETs) on SiO2/Si at temperatures < 20 K. The observed hysteresis increases with |B| up to 12 T and is tunable by varying the temperature. Raman spectroscopic and scanning tunneling microscopic studies reveal significant lattice expansion with increasing |B| at 4.2 K, and this lattice expansion becomes asymmetric in ML‐MoS2 FETs on rigid SiO2/Si substrates, leading to out‐of‐plane mirror symmetry breaking and the emergence of a tunable out‐of‐plane ferroelectric‐like polar order. This broken symmetry‐induced polarization in ML‐MoS2 shows typical ferroelectric butterfly hysteresis in piezo‐response force microscopy, adding ML‐MoS2 to the single‐layer material family that exhibits out‐of‐plane polar order‐induced ferroelectricity, which is promising for such technological applications as cryo‐temperature ultracompact non‐volatile memories, memtransistors, and ultrasensitive magnetic field sensors. Moreover, the polar effect induced by asymmetric lattice expansion may be further generalized to other ML‐TMDs and achieved by nanoscale strain engineering of the substrate without magnetic fields.
Synthesis Strategies for High Entropy Nanoparticles
Authors: Yang Linlin , He Ren , Chai Jiali , Qi Xueqiang , Xue Qian , Bi Xiaoyu , Yu Jing , Sun Zixu , Xia Lu , Wang Kaiwen , Kapuria Nilotpal , Li Junshan , Ostovari Moghaddam Ahmad , Cabot Andreu
Published: October 2024

Nanoparticles (NPs) of high entropy materials (HEMs) have attracted significant attention due to their versatility and wide range of applications. HEM NPs can be synthesized by fragmenting bulk HEMs or disintegrating and recrystallizing them. Alternatively, directly producing HEMs in NP form from atomic/ionic/molecular precursors presents a significant challenge. A widely adopted strategy involves thermodynamically driving HEM NP formation by leveraging the entropic contribution but incorporating strategies to limit NP growth at the elevated temperatures used for maximizing entropy. A second approach is to kinetically drive HEM NP formation by promoting rapid reactions of homogeneous reactant mixtures or using highly diluted precursor dissolutions. Additionally, experimental evidence suggests that enthalpy plays a significant role in driving HEM NP formation processes at moderate temperatures, with the high energy cost of generating additional surfaces and interfaces at the nanoscale stabilizing the HEM phase. This review critically assesses the various synthesis strategies developed for HEM NP preparation, highlighting key illustrative examples and offering insights into the underlying formation mechanisms. Such insights are critical for fine‐tuning experimental conditions to achieve specific outcomes, ultimately enabling the effective synthesis of optimized generations of these advanced materials for both current and emerging applications across various scientific and technological fields.
In Situ Encapsulation of Atomically Precise Nanoclusters in Reticular Frameworks via Mechanochemical Synthesis
Authors: Li Yi‐Ming , Shi Dongxia , Yuan Jian , Zuo Rui‐Min , Yang Hui , Hu Jinhui , Hu Shu‐Xian , Sheng Hongting , Zhu Manzhou
Published: October 2024

The combination of atomically precise nanoclusters (APNCs) and reticular frameworks is promising for generating component‐specific nanocomposites with emergent properties. However, traditional liquid‐phase synthesis often hampers this potential by damaging APNCs and limiting combination diversity. Here, mechanochemical synthesis to explore the encapsulation of diverse oil‐ and water‐soluble APNCs within various reticular frameworks is employed, establishing a database of 21 unique APNC−framework combinations, including metal−organic frameworks (MOFs), covalent−organic frameworks (COFs), hydrogen−bonded organic frameworks (HOFs), and multivariate MOFs. These framework coatings not only spatially immobilize APNCs but also secure their structures, preventing aggregation and degradation while enhancing stability and activity. Encapsulating Au25 in HOFs resulted in a remarkable 315‐fold increase in catalytic activity compared to Au25 homogeneous catalyst, highlighting the framework's crucial role in catalytic enhancement. The mechanochemical synthesis strategy facilitates tailored support screening, catering to specific needs, and shows promise for developing multifunctional systems, including enzyme−APNC@frameworks material for cascade reactions.
Industrial Scale Sea‐Island Melt‐Spun Continuous Ultrafine Fibers for Highly Comfortable Insulated Aerogel Felt Clothing
Authors: Yu Yan , Xu Chengjian , Hu Zexu , Xiang Hengxue , Zhang Junyan , Zhang Xinhai , Cheng Yanhua , Zhu Liping , Zhu Meifang
Published: October 2024

Aerogels are most attractive for thermal clothing. However, mechanical fragility and structural instability restrict their practical applications. These issues are overcome by developing industrial scale sea‐island melt‐spun ultrafine fibers with large and uniform length‐to‐diameter as building blocks, which are assembled into aerogel felts with corrugated lamellar structure through freeze‐shaping technology. These aerogels possess excellent mechanical properties to meet fabric elasticity and comfort needs, including super‐flexibility (25% tensile strain, 95% compression, 180° bending performance) and fatigue resistance of over 10,000 cycles. The aerogels are also self‐cleaning, waterproof, breathable, and flame‐retardant, making them suitable for application requirements in extreme environments. Moreover, the obtained aerogel felt clothing exhibits excellent thermal insulation properties close to that of dry air, and is only one‐third as thick as down clothing with similar insulating properties. Expanding sea‐island melt‐spun fiber to construct aerogel in this strategy provides scalable potential for developing multifunctional insulating aerogel clothing.
Discovery of EDA‐Complex Photochemical Reactions Using Computational Vision
Authors: Silva Rodrigo C. , Batista Gabriel M. F. , Brocksom Timothy J. , de Oliveira Kleber T.
Published: October 2024

Herein, we report a multidimensional screening strategy to discover Electron Donor‐Acceptor (EDA) complex photochemical reactions using only simple photographic devices, such as webcams or cellphones, combined with TLC analysis. An algorithm was designed to automatically identify EDA‐complex reactive mixtures in solution by processing digital images from a 96‐well microplate, alongside TLC results. The code detects the absorption region of the mixture in the visible spectrum and quantifies color changes through grayscale values. Integrated automatic TLC analysis further classifies mixtures as colorimetric reactions, non‐reactive, or potentially reactive EDA complexes. Leveraging this screening platform, we have developed a new EDA‐mediated approach to synthesize iminophosphoranes in yields up to 90%.
Exploring Electronic and Conformational Attributes of an Organic Donor‐Bridge‐Acceptor Molecular System
Authors: Echeverri Nikolas , Perea Jose Dario , Leon Salvador
Published: October 2024

This research explores the electronic properties and conformational dynamics of the ZnP‐COPV‐ (Zinc Porphyrin ‐ Carbon bridged Oligo Phenylenevinylene ‐ Fullerene) organic semiconductor via specialized Density Functional Theory (DFT) and Molecular Dynamics (MD) computational techniques. First, through DFT calculations, essential HOMO (Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital), LUMO (Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital), and Molecular Electrostatic Potential (MEP) electronic attributes are meticulously dissected providing insights into the intricate charge transfer processes between the constituent donor‐acceptor moieties. Furthermore, MD simulations are employed to unveil the molecular system's multifaceted conformational flexibility and stability. The Root‐mean‐squared deviation (RMSD), end‐to‐end distance, and torsional angles quantitative analysis of conformational attributes support the carbon‐bridged oligo‐phenylenevinylene (COPV) molecular wire's ‐skeleton planar and rigid conformation. This minimal end‐to‐end distance variation (within Å) compared to the initially extended structure and the constrained torsional motion (within for ZnP‐COPV and for COPV‐) after thermalization showcases COPV's ability to maintain structural rigidity over time, aligning with the concept of effective ‐conjugation. Finally, through the lens of time dependent (TD)‐DFT, the dynamic evolution of the HOMO–LUMO energy gap, TD‐DFT excitation energies and oscillator strengths are explored as the molecular structure transforms over time. The observed energy gap variation underscores the molecule's adaptability in the face of structural modifications, hinting at an intriguing connection between structural stability and enhanced electronic properties. The research provides a comprehensive understanding of the intricate interplay between conformational dynamics and electronic attributes in organic semiconductors, providing quantitative insights crucial for designing stable, high‐performance materials for cutting‐edge optoelectronic applications and helping advance the collective understanding of sustainable energy conversion.
Double Braking Effects of Nanomedicine on Mitochondrial Permeability Transition Pore for Treating Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis
Authors: Lu An , Xu Zhiyi , Zhao Zhixia , Yan Yi , Jiang Linxia , Geng Jing , Jin Hongwei , Wang Xiangyu , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhu Yuanjun , Shi Yujie , Liu Lihong , Dai Huaping , Wang Jian‐Cheng
Published: October 2024

Mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening is a key hallmark of injured type II alveolar epithelial cells (AECIIs) in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Inhibiting mPTP opening in AECIIs is considered a potential IPF treatment. Herein, a “double braking” strategy on mPTP by cyclosporin A (CsA) derived ionizable lipid with 3D structure (3D‐lipid) binding cyclophilin D (CypD) and siRNA downregulating mitochondrial calcium uniporter (MCU) expression is proposed for treating IPF. 3D‐lipid and MCU targeting siRNA (siMCU) are co‐assembled to form stable 3D‐LNP/siMCU nanoparticles (NPs), along with helper lipids. In vitro results demonstrated that these NPs effectively inhibit mPTP opening by 3D‐lipid binding with CypD and siRNA downregulating MCU expression, thereby decreasing damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) release and suppressing epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process in bleomycin‐induced A549 cells. In vivo results revealed that 3D‐LNP/siMCU NPs effectively ameliorated collagen deposition, pro‐fibrotic factors secretion, and fibroblast activation in bleomycin‐induced pulmonary fibrosis (PF) mouse models. Moreover, compared to the commercial MC3‐based formulation, optimized Opt‐MC3/siRNA NPs with incorporating 3D‐lipid as the fifth component, showed superior therapeutic efficacy against PF due to their enhanced stability and higher gene silencing efficiency. Overall, the nanomedicine containing 3D‐lipid and siMCU will be a promising and potential approach for IPF treatment.
OPN‐Mediated Crosstalk Between Hepatocyte E4BP4 and Hepatic Stellate Cells Promotes MASH‐Associated Liver Fibrosis
Authors: Wang Sujuan , Gao Jiashi , Yang Meichan , Zhang Gary , Yin Lei , Tong Xin
Published: October 2024

Stressed hepatocytes promote liver fibrosis through communications with hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) during chronic liver injury. However, intra‐hepatocyte players that facilitate such cell‐to‐cell communications are largely undefined. It is previously reported that hepatocyte E4BP4 is potently induced by ER stress and hepatocyte deletion of E4bp4 protects mice from high‐fat diet‐induced liver steatosis. Here how hepatocyte E4bp4 deficiency impacts the activation of HSCs and the progression toward MASH‐associated liver fibrosis is examined. Hepatic E4BP4 is increased in mouse models of NASH diet‐ or CCl4‐induced liver fibrosis. Hepatocyte‐specific E4bp4 deletion protected mice against NASH diet‐induced liver injury, inflammation, and fibrosis without impacting liver steatosis. Hepatocyte E4BP4 overexpression activated HSCs in a medium transfer experiment, whereas hepatocyte E4bp4 depletion did the opposite. RNA‐Seq analysis identified the pro‐fibrogenic factor OPN as a critical target of E4BP4 within hepatocytes. Antibody neutralization or shRNA depletion of Opn abrogated hepatocyte E4BP4‐induced HSC activation. E4BP4 interacted with and stabilized YAP, an established activator of OPN. Loss of hepatic Yap blocked OPN induction in the liver of Ad‐E4bp4‐injected mice. Hepatocyte E4BP4 induces OPN via YAP to activate HSCs and promote liver fibrosis during diet‐induced MASH. Inhibition of the hepatocyte E4BP4‐OPN pathway could offer a novel therapeutic avenue for treating MASLD/MASH.
PKM2‐Driven Lactate Overproduction Triggers Endothelial‐To‐Mesenchymal Transition in Ischemic Flap via Mediating TWIST1 Lactylation
Authors: Xu Yining , Ma Xianhui , Ni Weiyu , Zheng Lin , Lin Zhongnan , Lai Yingying , Yang Ningning , Dai Zhanqiu , Yao Teng , Chen Zeyang , Shen Lifeng , Wang Haitao , Wang Long , Wu Yizheng , Gao Weiyang
Published: October 2024

The accumulation of lactate is a rising risk factor for patients after flap transplantation. Endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EndoMT) plays a critical role in skin fibrosis. Nevertheless, whether lactate overproduction directly contributes to flap necrosis and its mechanism remain unknown. The current study reveals that skin flap mice exhibit enhanced PKM2 and fibrotic response. Endothelial‐specific deletion of PKM2 attenuates flap necrosis and ameliorates flap fibrosis in mice. Administration of lactate or overexpressing PKM2 promotes dysfunction of endothelial cells and stimulates mesenchymal‐like phenotype following hypoxia. Mechanistically, glycolytic‐lactate induces a correlation between Twist1 and p300/CBP, leading to lactylation of Twist1 lysine 150 (K150la). The increase in K150la promotes Twist1 phosphorylation and nuclear translocation and further regulates the transcription of TGFB1, hence inducing fibrosis phenotype. Genetically deletion of endothelial‐specific PKM2 in mice diminishes lactate accumulation and Twist1 lactylation, then attenuates EndoMT‐associated fibrosis following flap ischemia. The serum lactate levels of flap transplantation patients are elevated and exhibit predictive value for prognosis. This findings suggested a novel role of PKM2‐derived lactate in mediating Twist1 lactylation and exacerbates flap fibrosis and ischemia. Inhibition of glycolytic‐lactate and Twist1 lactylation reduces flap necrosis and fibrotic response might become a potential therapeutic strategy for flap ischemia.
Beyond Moiré with Spatial Frequency Mastery via δ‐Function Expansion Metasurface
Authors: Chen Rongsheng , Yu Feilong , Chen Jin , Jin Rong , Wang Jie , Wang Jiuxu , Chen Xiaoshuang , Lu Wei , Li Guanhai
Published: October 2024

Mastering spatial frequency manipulation within momentum space is pivotal yet challenging, particularly in mitigating moiré patterns that significantly impair image quality across diverse applications. Conventional methods often require trade‐offs in spatial resolution or fall short of completely eradicating unwanted frequencies, further burdened by complex post‐processing demands. In this work, a novel coherent δ‐function expansion technique implemented through an all‐silicon metasurface, affording unparalleled synergistic control over arbitrarily selected spatial frequencies via refined k‐space amplitude and phase modulations is introduced. This approach transcends traditional global methods by harnessing a sophisticated ensemble of multiple δ‐functions, enabling a holistic manipulation of spatial frequencies. The periodicity introduced by this approach also enables the feasibility of infinitely spatial stitching expansion for metasurfaces while maintaining high energy utilization efficiency. The methodology excels in the meticulous removal of local moiré frequencies while concurrently facilitating numerous advanced optical functions, including mixed partial differentiation and noise suppression, all within the optical domain. This work heralds a significant leap forward in optical manipulation, presenting a viable, scalable alternative to complex electronic post‐processing. Through this work, not only a longstanding challenge is addressed in optical physics but also open new avenues for research and application in photodetection and optical processing technologies.
Posterior Basolateral Amygdala is a Critical Amygdaloid Area for Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Sun Yan‐Hui , Hu Bo‐Wu , Tan Li‐Heng , Lin Lin , Cao Shu‐Xia , Wu Tan‐Xia , Wang Hao , Yu Bin , Wang Qin , Lian Hong , Chen Jiadong , Li Xiao‐Ming
Published: October 2024

The amygdaloid complex consists of multiple nuclei and is a key node in controlling temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) in both human and animal model studies. However, the specific nucleus in the amygdaloid complex and the neural circuitry governing seizures remain unknown. Here, it is discovered that activation of glutamatergic neurons in the posterior basolateral amygdala (pBLA) induces severe seizures and even mortality. The pBLA glutamatergic neurons project collateral connections to multiple brain regions, including the insular cortex (IC), bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), and central amygdala (CeA). Stimulation of pBLA‐targeted IC neurons triggers seizures, whereas ablation of IC neurons suppresses seizures induced by activating pBLA glutamatergic neurons. GABAergic neurons in the BNST and CeA establish feedback inhibition on pBLA glutamatergic neurons. Deleting GABAergic neurons in the BNST or CeA leads to sporadic seizures, highlighting their role in balancing pBLA activity. Furthermore, pBLA neurons receive glutamatergic inputs from the ventral hippocampal CA1 (vCA1). Ablation of pBLA glutamatergic neurons mitigates both acute and chronic seizures in the intrahippocampal kainic acid‐induced mouse model of TLE. Together, these findings identify the pBLA as a pivotal nucleus in the amygdaloid complex for regulating epileptic seizures in TLE.
Novel Octa‐Structure Metamaterial Architecture for High Q‐Factor and High Sensitivity in THz Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Khand Heena , Sengupta Rudrarup , Sarusi Gabby
Published: October 2024

Terahertz (THz) electric inductive‐capacitive (ELC) resonant metamaterials (MMs) are well established tools that can be used to detect the presence of dielectric material (e.g., nanoparticles, bioparticles, etc.) spread on their surfaces within the gap of the capacitive plates of a nanoantenna array. In THz spectroscopy, the amount of the red shift in the resonance frequency (ΔF) plays an important role in the detection of nanoparticles and their concentration. We introduce a new LC resonant MM architecture in the ELC category that maximizes dielectric sensitivity. The newly proposed architecture has an octahedral structure with uniform capacitive gaps at each forty‐five‐degree interval, making the structure super‐symmetric and polarization independent. The inductor core is condensed into a central solid circle connecting all the eight lobes of the octahedron, thereby completing the LC circuit. This ELC resonator has very large active areas (capacitor‐gaps), with hotspots at the periphery of each unit cell. The MM structure is repeated in a clustered fashion, so that the peripheral hotspots are also utilized in dielectric sensing. This results in enhancing the quality factor of MM resonance, as well as in increasing ΔF. The research comprises a combination of rigorous system‐level simulations along with THz impedance spectroscopy laboratory experiments. We achieved a highly sensitive MM sensor with sensitivity reaching 1600 GHz/RIU. This sensor is fully CMOS compatible and has promising potential applications in high‐sensitivity bio‐sensing, characterization of nanoparticles, and ultra‐low‐concentration dielectrics detection, as well as in sensing differential changes in the composition of substances deposited on the metasurface.
Clog P‐Guided Development of Multi‐Colored Buffering Fluorescent Probes for Super‐Resolution Imaging of Lipid Droplet Dynamics
Authors: Chen Jie , Qiao Qinglong , Wang Hanlixin , Jiang Wenchao , Liu Wenjuan , An Kai , Xu Zhaochao
Published: October 2024

Super‐resolution fluorescence imaging of live cells increasingly demands fluorescent probes capable of multi‐color and long‐term dynamic imaging. Understanding the mechanisms of probe‐target recognition is essential for the engineered development of such probes. In this study, it is discovered that the molecular lipid solubility parameter, Clog P, determines the staining performance of fluorescent dyes on lipid droplets (LDs). Fluorescent dyes with Clog P values between 2.5 and 4 can form buffering pools outside LDs, replacing photobleached dyes within LDs to maintain constant fluorescence intensity in LDs, thereby enabling dynamic super‐resolution imaging of LDs. Guided by Clog P, four different colored buffering LD probes spanning the visible light spectrum have been developed. Using Structured Illumination Microscopy (SIM), the role of LD dynamics have been tracked during cellular ferroptosis with the secretion, storage, and degradation of overexpressed ACSL3 proteins. It is found that LDs serve as storage sites for these proteins through membrane fusion, and further degrade overexpressed proteins via interactions with organelles like lysosomes or through lipophagy, thereby maintaining cellular homeostasis.
Nature's All‐in‐One: Multitasking Robots Inspired by Dung Beetles
Authors: Leung Binggwong , Gorb Stanislav , Manoonpong Poramate
Published: October 2024

Dung beetles impressively coordinate their 6 legs to effectively roll large dung balls. They can also roll dung balls varying in the weight on different terrains. The mechanisms underlying how their motor commands are adapted to walk and simultaneously roll balls (multitasking behavior) under different conditions remain unknown. This study unravels the mechanisms of how dung beetles roll dung balls and adapt their leg movements to stably roll balls over different terrains for multitasking robots. A modular neural‐based loco‐manipulation control inspired by and based on ethological observations of the ball‐rolling behavior of dung beetles is synthesized. The proposed neural‐based control contains a central pattern generator (CPG) module, a pattern formation network (PFN) module, and a robot orientation control (ROC) module. The integrated control mechanisms can control a dung beetle‐like robot (ALPHA) with biomechanical feet to perform adaptive (multitasking) loco‐manipulation (walking and ball‐rolling) on various terrains (flat and uneven). It can deal with different ball weights (2.0 and 4.6 kg) and ball types (soft and rigid). The control mechanisms can serve as guiding principles for solving sensory‐motor coordination for multitasking robots. Furthermore, this study contributes to biological research by enhancing the understanding of sensory‐motor coordination for adaptive (multitasking) loco‐manipulation behavior in animals.
Pristine MXene: In Situ XRD Study of MAX Phase Etching with HCl+LiF Solution
Authors: Gurzęda Bartosz , Boulanger Nicolas , Nordenström Andreas , Dejoie Catherine , Talyzin Alexandr V.
Published: October 2024

Many applications are suggested for Ti‐MXene motivating strong interest in studies of Ti3C2Tx synthesis by solution‐based methods. However, so far only ex situ studies of the synthesis are performed, mostly due to the difficulty of handling HF‐based solutions. Here the first time‐resolved in situ synchrotron radiation X‐ray Diffraction study of MXene synthesis performed using a plastic capillary‐size reaction cell directly in HF solution is reported. This study provides the first report on the structure of “pristine MXene” formed by Ti3AlC2 etching with LiF+HCl. The term “pristine” refers to the MXene structure found directly in HF solution. By comparing the interlayer distances of pristine MXene (≈13.5 Å), solvent‐free Li‐intercalated MXene (≈12.2 Å), and Li‐free MXene (≈10.7 Å), it can be concluded that the width of “slit pores” formed by terminated MX layers during the Al etching does not exceed ≈3 Å. The width of these slit pores is a key factor for HF etching of Al within the interlayers. This space constraint explains the slow kinetics of MXene formation in HF‐based synthesis methods. No intermediate phases are observed, suggesting that the crystalline MXene phase is formed by the simultaneous etching of Al and termination of Ti3C2 layers.
Targeted Analysis of Mitochondrial Protein Conformations and Interactions by Endogenous ROS‐Triggered Cross‐Linker Release
Authors: Zhou Wen , Chen Yuwan , Fu Wenxin , Li Xinwei , Xia Yufei , Zhao Qun , Zhao Baofeng , Zhang Yukui , Yang Kaiguang , Zhang Lihua
Published: October 2024

The study of in situ conformations and interactions of mitochondrial proteins plays a crucial role in understanding their biological functions. Current chemical cross‐linking mass spectrometry (CX‐MS) has difficulty in achieving in‐depth analysis of mitochondrial proteins for cells without genetic modification. Herein, this work develops the reactive oxygen species (ROS)‐responsive cross‐linker delivery nanoparticles (R‐CDNP) targeting mitochondria. R‐CDNP contains mitochondria‐targeting module triphenylphosphine, ROS‐responsive module thioketal, loading module poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA), and polyethylene glycol (PEG), and cross‐linker module disuccinimidyl suberate (DSS). After targeting mitochondria, ROS‐triggered cross‐linker release improves the cross‐linking coverage of mitochondria in situ. In total, this work identifies 2103 cross‐linked sites of 572 mitochondrial proteins in HepG2 cells. 1718 intra‐links reveal dynamic conformations involving chaperones with ATP‐dependent conformation cycles, and 385 inter‐links reveal dynamic interactions involving OXPHOS complexes and 27 pairs of possible potential interactions. These results signify that R‐CDNP can achieve dynamic conformation and interaction analysis of mitochondrial proteins in living cells, thereby contributing to a better understanding of their biological functions.
Multipoint Anionic Bridge: Asymmetric Solvation Structure Improves the Stability of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Tianle , Xu Tonghui , Xiong Jianwei , Xie Weiping , Wu Mengqi , Yu Ying , Xu Zhuijun , Liang Yuxin , Liao Can , Dong Xiaoli , Xia Yongyao , Cheng Ya‐Jun , Xia Yonggao , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter
Published: October 2024

In this study, a novel concept of multipoint anionic bridge (MAB) is proposed and proved, which utilizes anions with different sites to connect with the asymmetric solvation structure (ASS). Compared to usual solvation structures, this study utilizes the multifunctional groups of difluoro(oxalate)borate anion (ODFB−), which can connect with Li+. By tailoring the concentration, the anion serves as a bridge between different solvated structures. The electrolyte is investigated through in situ techniques and simulations to draw correlations between different solvation structures and reaction pathways. The proposed design demonstrates remarkable high‐temperature performance on both the anode and cathode sides, enabling stable cycling of LCO||graphite (0.5 Ah, 1.0 C) pouch cell for over 200 cycles at 80 °C and facilitating Li||MCMB and Li||LFP cells to deliver stable performance for 200 cycles at 100 °C. This work paves the way for the development of high‐performance electrolyte systems by designing and using new multipoint anions to construct ASSs.
Ambient Moisture‐Induced Self Alignment of Polarization in Ferroelectric Hafnia
Authors: Wei Lu‐Qi , Guan Zhao , Tong Wen‐Yi , Fan Wen‐Cheng , Mattursun Abliz , Chen Bin‐Bin , Xiang Ping‐Hua , Han Genquan , Duan Chun‐Gang , Zhong Ni
Published: October 2024

The discovery of nanoscale ferroelectricity in hafnia (HfO2) has paved the way for next generation high‐density, non‐volatile devices. Although the surface conditions of nanoscale HfO2 present one of the fundamental mechanism origins, the impact of external environment on HfO2 ferroelectricity remains unknown. In this study, the deleterious effect of ambient moisture is examined on the stability of ferroelectricity using Hf0.5Zr0.5O2 (HZO) films as a model system. It is found that the development of an intrinsic electric field due to the adsorption of atmospheric water molecules onto the film's surface significantly impairs the properties of domain retention and polarization stability. Nonetheless, vacuum heating efficiently counteracts the adverse effects of water adsorption, which restores the symmetric electrical characteristics and polarization stability. This work furnishes a novel perspective on previous extensive studies, demonstrating significant impact of surface water on HfO2‐based ferroelectrics, and establishes the design paradigm for the future evolution of HfO2‐based multifunctional electronic devices.