bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
m6A‐dependent upregulation of DDX21 by super‐enhancer‐driven IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 facilitates progression of acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Zhao Yanchun , Zhou Yutong , Qian Yu , Wei Wenwen , Lin Xiangjie , Mao Shihui , Sun Jie , Jin Jie
Published: April 2024

Background

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) is a haematological malignancy with unfavourable prognosis. Despite the effectiveness of chemotherapy and targeted therapy, relapse or drug resistance remains a major threat to AML patients. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA methylation and super‐enhancers (SEs) are extensively involved in the leukaemogenesis of AML. However, the potential relationship between m6A and SEs in AML has not been elaborated.

Methods

Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) sequencing data from Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) cohort were analysed to search SE‐related genes. The mechanisms of m6 A‐binding proteins IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 on DDX21 were explored via methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (MeRIP) assays, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) assays and luciferase reporter assays. Then we elucidated the roles of DDX21 in AML through functional assays in vitro and in vivo. Finally, co‐immunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) assays, RNA sequencing and ChIP assays were performed to investigate the downstream mechanisms of DDX21.

Results

We identified two SE‐associated transcripts IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 in AML. High enrichment of H3K27ac, H3K4me1 and BRD4 was observed in IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3, whose expression were driven by SE machinery. Then IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 enhanced the stability of DDX21 mRNA in an m6A‐dependent manner. DDX21 was highly expressed in AML patients, which indicated a poor survival. Functionally, knockdown of DDX21 inhibited cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis and led to cell cycle arrest. Mechanistically, DDX21 recruited transcription factor YBX1 to cooperatively trigger ULK1 expression. Moreover, silencing of ULK1 could reverse the promoting effects of DDX21 overexpression in AML cells.

Conclusions

Dysregulation of SE‐IGF2BP2/IGF2BP3‐DDX21 axis facilitated the progression of AML. Our findings provide new insights into the link between SEs and m6A modification, elucidate the regulatory mechanisms of IGF2BP2 and IGF2BP3 on DDX21, and reveal the underlying roles of DDX21 in AML.
RNA methylation‐related inhibitors: Biological basis and therapeutic potential for cancer therapy
Authors: Chen Huanxiang , Liu Hongyang , Zhang Chenxing , Xiao Nan , Li Yang , Zhao Xiangzhuan , Zhang Ruike , Gu Huihui , Kang Qiaozhen , Wan Junhu
Published: April 2024

RNA methylation is widespread in nature. Abnormal expression of proteins associated with RNA methylation is strongly associated with a number of human diseases including cancer. Increasing evidence suggests that targeting RNA methylation holds promise for cancer treatment. This review specifically describes several common RNA modifications, such as the relatively well‐studied N6‐methyladenosine, as well as 5‐methylcytosine and pseudouridine (Ψ). The regulatory factors involved in these modifications and their roles in RNA are also comprehensively discussed. We summarise the diverse regulatory functions of these modifications across different types of RNAs. Furthermore, we elucidate the structural characteristics of these modifications along with the development of specific inhibitors targeting them. Additionally, recent advancements in small molecule inhibitors targeting RNA modifications are presented to underscore their immense potential and clinical significance in enhancing therapeutic efficacy against cancer.

Key Points

In this paper, several important types of RNA modifications and their related regulatory factors are systematically summarised.

Several regulatory factors related to RNA modification types were associated with cancer progression, and their relationships with cancer cell migration, invasion, drug resistance and immune environment were summarised.

In this paper, the inhibitors targeting different regulators that have been proposed in recent studies are summarised in detail, which is of great significance for the development of RNA modification regulators and cancer treatment in the future.
Mechanistic Insights Into the [3+1] Cycloadditions of Me3SiN3 on Bis‐Silylene and the Formation of Pseudo‐Silaazatriene
Authors: Muhammed Shahila , Parameswaran Pattiyil
Published: April 2024

The reaction mechanism for the formation of the pseudo‐silaazatriene 1 (LN(SiMe3)2−Si−N−Si(L)NSiMe3; L=PhC−(NtBu)2) by the reaction of 1 equivalent of bis‐silylene (LSi−SiL; L=PhC(NtBu)2) with 3 equivalents of azide Me3SiN3 has been explored at M06/def2‐TZVPP//BP86‐D3(BJ)/def2‐TZVPP level of theory. The reaction mechanism is guided by the high Lewis basicity of the silicon lone pair and the high Lewis acidic character of Si−N bonds, as well as by the high tendency to eliminate N2 from Me3SiN3. The first step of the reaction is the formation of [3+1] cycloaddition product (I1) by the synergetic interactions of the lone pair on the silylene silicon with the π* molecular orbital of Me3SiN3 which is majorly localized on the terminal nitrogen atom, and the donation of the σ‐type lone pair on the nitrogen atom connected to the SiMe3 group with the Si−N σ* orbital on silylene. The elimination of N2 from I1 results in the formation of pseudo‐silaimine intermediate I2 having a dicoordinated, monovalent nitrogen atom. The most favourable pathway involves the second addition of Me3SiN3 followed by N2 elimination resulting bis‐silaimine intermediate I4‐P2. The highly reactive lone pair on the dicoordinated, monovalent nitrogen atom can be coordinated to the Si−N σ* MO of the second silylene moiety resulting in Si−N bond formation and Si−Si bond cleavage. This step is similar to the SN2′ reaction where the incoming nucleophile and the leaving group are on the same side resulting in the formation of silaimine I5. Further, the [3+1] cycloaddition of one more molecule of Me3SiN3 followed by N2 elimination results in the formation of silaimine intermediate I7. I7 undergoes 1,3‐silyl migration leading to the final product 1. The lone pairs on di‐ and tricoordinated nitrogen centres of all the intermediates are stabilized by hyperconjugative interactions. The delocalized hyperconjugative interaction stabilizes the lone pairs in 1.
Women's representation in managerial hierarchies: An examination of trickle‐down and pipeline effects
Authors: Stainback Kevin , Roberts Helen , Biswas Pallab Kumar
Published: April 2024

The trickle‐down effect has been proposed as one means to address women's continued underrepresentation in leadership positions globally. While earlier research supported the trickle‐down effect's prediction that increasing women's representation at higher managerial levels will positively impact women's careers at lower managerial levels, recent studies provide inconsistent evidence, leading to claims that it may be spurious. Due to data limitation, most prior trickle‐down research has explored just two managerial levels—board and executives—making it difficult to separate a trickle‐down effect from external pressures (e.g., shareholders, law) or internal factors (e.g., organizational culture) that may cause it. Furthermore, prior research does not adequately account for women's representation in managerial pipelines, a crucial source of potential managerial talent. To address these concerns, we analyze Australian workplace panel data (2014–2020) that allow for a more robust test of the trickle‐down effect than previously examined. Our results support the trickle‐down effect across multiple managerial levels below the board level, independent of managerial pipeline effects. The trickle‐down and pipeline effects were only observed for positions immediately above and below each managerial level. This highlights the proximity of positions within management hierarchies where the in‐group preference and women's direct advocacy for other women are most likely to occur. Our study suggests that simply appointing more women to top positions, such as boards, while beneficial, is not enough to address gender inequality in management meaningfully. We recommend that rather than focusing on gender representation at the top, organizations should set gender diversity goals and monitor progress at all managerial levels. We conclude with implications for theory, practice, and future research.
Teaching Model Based System Engineering – A Banking Benchmark Problem
Authors: Jeppu Aditya Y , Nasreen Azra , Mittal Mudit
Published: April 2024

MBSE has been widely used for industry processes and safety critical avionic and space systems. The use of MBSE process with STPA for safety analysis, mutation testing for verification, model checking and simulations for formal validation, has shown a better alternative to normal development methods. The growth of online financial transactions due to ease of internal payment methods, has resulted in a number of payment applications. System Engineering is not widely popular in academia and undergraduate levels. Benchmark problems are required for the students to get their hands “dirty” and for the instructors to provide hands on examples, matched to theory in textbooks. This paper looks into performing STPA and Model based analysis of such an application, with the goal to teach MBSE methods through industry example.
A slight degree of osteoarthritis appears to be present after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction compared with contralateral healthy knees at a minimum of 20 years: A systematic review of the literature
Authors: D'Ambrosi Riccardo , Carrozzo Alessandro , Meena Amit , Corona Katia , Yadav Amit Kumar , Annibaldi Alessandro , Kambhampati Srinivas B. S. , Abermann Elisabeth , Fink Christian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The aim of the present systematic review was to quantitatively synthesize the best literature evidence regarding osteoarthritis developing after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR), including only studies with a follow‐up duration of at least 20 years.

Material and Methods

A systematic review was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines on four electronic databases (PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE and Cochrane Library). The outcome measures extracted from the studies were failure rate, subsequent knee surgery on the same knee, radiographic development of osteoarthritis measured with Kellgren–Lawrence, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) radiographic score and Ahlbäck classification. The health of both the ACLR knee and the contralateral knee was compared.

Results

A total of 1552 patients were included in the study, of which 1290 (83.11%) were operated on using a patellar tendon graft, 190 (12.24%) with hamstrings, 27 (1.73%) with an iliotibial band and 45 (2.89%) with patellar tendon plus a ligament augmentation device (LAD). The mean age at the time of surgery was 25.18 ± 1.91 years, and the mean follow‐up time was 23.34 ± 2.56 years. Analysing IDKC Score at final follow‐up, ACLR Group showed a higher degree of OA compared with contralateral healthy knee (p < 0.01), but only 33.2% (324/976) of the patients showed a moderate to severe degree (Grade C or D) of osteoarthritis, while for Kellgren–Lawrence, ACLR Group showed a higher degree of OA compared with contralateral healthy knee (p < 0.01), but only 28.9% (196/678) of the patients showed a moderate to severe degree (Grade III or IV) of osteoarthritis. In total, 1552 patients were registered, 155 reruptures (9.98%) and a total of 300 (19.3%) new surgeries, of which 228 meniscectomy (14.69%), 21 (1.35%) knee arthroplasty and 17 (1.09%) hardware removal were recorded.

Conclusions

ACL reconstruction appears to result in mild osteoarthritis in the long term in most of the patients and only less than 33.2% develop a moderate to severe degree of knee OA according to IKDC radiographic score. A slight degree of osteoarthritis appears to be present in ACLR knees compared with contralateral healthy knees.

Level of Evidence

Level IV.
NLRC4‐mediated pyroptosis was involved in coagulation disorders of acute pancreatitis
Authors: Hu Sunkuan , Lin Tiesu , Chen Yufeng , Guo Yimo , Sun Xuecheng , Shi Lingyan , Pan Jingye
Published: April 2024

Background

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is a potentially lethal acute disease highly involved in coagulation disorders. Pyroptosis has been reported to exacerbate coagulation disorders, yet this implication has not been illustrated completely in AP.

Methods

RNA sequencing data of peripheral blood of AP patients were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Gene set variation analysis and single sample gene set enrichment analysis were used to calculate the enrichment score of coagulation‐related signatures and pyroptosis. Spearman and Pearson correlation analysis was used for correlation analysis. Peripheral blood samples and related clinical parameters were collected from patients with AP and healthy individuals. A severe AP (SAP) model of mice was established using caerulein and lipopolysaccharide. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, chemiluminescence immunoassay and immunohistochemical analysis were employed to detect the level of coagulation indicators and pyroptosis markers in serum and pancreas tissues. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of pyroptosis inhibition and NLRC4 silence on the function of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs).

Results

Coagulation disorders were significantly positively correlated to the severity of AP, and they could be a predictor for AP severity. Further analyses indicated that six genes—DOCK9, GATA3, FCER1G, NLRC4, C1QB and C1QC—may be involved in coagulation disorders of AP. Among them, NLRC4 was positively related to pyroptosis that had a positive association with most coagulation‐related signatures. Data from patients showed that NLRC4 and other pyroptosis markers, including IL‐1β, IL‐18, caspase1 and GSDMD, were significant correlation to AP severity. In addition, NLRC4 was positively associated with coagulation indicators in AP patients. Data from mice showed that NLRC4 was increased in the pancreas tissues of SAP mice. Treatment with a pyroptosis inhibitor effectively alleviated SAP and coagulation disorders in mice. Finally, inhibiting pyroptosis or silencing NLRC4 could relieve endothelial dysfunction in HUVECs.

Conclusions

NLRC4‐mediated pyroptosis damages the function of endothelial cells and thereby exacerbates coagulation disorders of AP. Inhibiting pyroptosis could improve coagulation function and alleviate AP.
Gut microbiota: the indispensable player in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Li Sen , Cai Yuwei , Wang Shuo , Luo Lei , Zhang Yu , Huang Kai , Guan Xiao
Published: April 2024

As one of the most urgent social and health problems in the world, neurodegenerative diseases have always been of interest to researchers. However, the pathological mechanisms and therapeutic approaches are not achieved. In addition to the established roles of oxidative stress, inflammation and immune response, changes of gut microbiota are also closely related to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Gut microbiota is the central player of the gut–brain axis, the dynamic bidirectional communication pathway between gut microbiota and central nervous system, and emerging insights have confirmed its indispensability in the development of neurodegenerative diseases. In this review, we discuss the complex relationship between gut microbiota and the central nervous system from the perspective of the gut–brain axis; review the mechanism of microbiota for the modulation different neurodegenerative diseases and discuss how different dietary patterns affect neurodegenerative diseases via gut microbiota; and prospect the employment of gut microbiota in the therapeutic approach to those diseases. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Genetic and the Environmental Influences on the Concentrations Iron and Zinc in Small Seeded Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Varieties and Advanced Lines From Ethiopia
Authors: Ejigu Girum K. , Glahn Raymond P. , Mukankusi Clare M. , Fenta Berhanu A. , Wiesinger Jason A.
Published: April 2024

Common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is a grain legume rich in proteins and micronutrients, particularly iron and zinc. In this study, 30 small‐seeded genotypes were planted in five locations in Ethiopia, following an alpha lattice design with three replications, to determine environmental and genotypic influence on the Fe and Zn concentration. Based on their Fe and Zn contents, bean cultivars were evaluated for adaptability and stability using AMMI analysis. The Fe concentrations of raw bean seed varied from 44.4 to 84.4 μg/g within the panel of small‐seeded genotypes, with an average range of variance of 18 μg/g across environments, and its seed Zn concentrations varied from 19.7 to 32.3 μg/g, with an average range of variance of 12.6 μg/g across environments. The averages bean Fe concentration among the small‐seeded genotypes across sites in Ethiopia was 62.2 and 26.1 μg/g for Zn concentrations. Results from the analysis of variance using the AMMI model indicated that genotypes accounted for 20.53% and 9.49% of the total variance in seed Fe and Zn concentrations, respectively. The environment had a greater impact, affecting 60.92% and 81.52% of total sum of squares for Fe and Zn concentrations, respectively. According to the broad‐sense heritability, there appears to be some genetic control over Fe and Zn concentrations. However, the substantial effects of the environment and genotype‐by‐environment interaction on Fe and Zn concentrations in small‐seeded genotypes indicates breeding for higher amounts of trace minerals in new bean varieties could be a challenging task. This means the notion that beans can be biofortified to have higher concentrations of Fe and Zn might not be achievable in Ethiopia. A shift in breeding strategies that focuses on traits to enhance the bioavailability of Fe and Zn from bean is warranted and could be a solution to enhance the delivery of iron from small‐seeded beans produced in Ethiopia.
Antiferroptosis therapy alleviated the development of atherosclerosis
Authors: Yang Zhou , He Yue , Wu Dejun , Shi Weihao , Liu Ping , Tan Jinyun , Wang Rui , Yu Bo
Published: April 2024

Ferroptosis has been confirmed to be associated with various diseases, but the relationship between ferroptosis and atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. Our research detailly clarified the roles of ferroptosis in three continuous and main pathological stages of AS respectively (injury of endothelial cells [ECs], adhesion of monocytes, and formation of foam cells). We confirmed that oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL), the key factor in the pathogenesis of AS, strongly induced ferroptosis in ECs. Inhibition of ferroptosis repressed the adhesion of monocytes to ECs by inhibiting inflammation of ECs. Ferroptosis also participated in the formation of foam cells and lipids by regulating the cholesterol efflux of macrophages. Further research confirmed that ox‐LDL repressedthe activity of glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), the classic lipid peroxide scavenger. Treatment of a high‐fat diet significantly induced ferroptosis in murine aortas and aortic sinuses, which was accompanied by AS lesions and hyperlipidemia. Treatment with ferroptosis inhibitors significantly reduced ferroptosis, hyperlipidemia, and AS lesion development. In conclusion, our research determined that ox‐LDL induced ferroptosis by repressing the activity of GPX4. Antiferroptosis treatment showed promising treatment effects in vivo. Ferroptosis‐associated indexes also showed promising diagnostic potential in AS patients.
Nano‐pyrite as a plant hormone regulator: Emulating seed hormopriming
Authors: Kaler Brijesh , Jangir Himanshi , Sarkar Sabyasachi , Sharma Jayprakash , Das Mainak
Published: April 2024

‘Pre‐sowing seed priming’ and ‘pre‐transplanting root priming’ are promising strategies to improve agriculture productivity. Farmers, seed production enterprises, and seedling producers constantly search for economic priming agents that help improve yield and crop health. Recently, several nanomaterials have emerged as economical seed and root priming agents, with nanoiron pyrite standing out as a particularly promising molecule. The observed enhancement in germination of nano‐pyrite treated seeds across various plant species indicate a shared underlying mechanism. We conducted evaluations of gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) content in red radish and soybean seeds subjected to nano‐pyrite priming revealing a notable increase in the GA: ABA ratio compared to the control group. In addition, mature red radishes cultivated from nano‐pyrite primed seeds exhibited elevated anthocyanin content and a remarkable 25.46% increase in yield. The aqueous pyrite suspension utilised in the process generates trace peroxide, and we propose that this trace peroxide plays a crucial role in orchestrating the increased GA: ABA ratio, anthocyanin content, and crop yield. These results position nano‐pyrite as a plant hormone regulator, effectively mimicking the seed hormo‐priming strategy. Considering the widespread presence of pyrite in the earth's crust, using pyrite as a commercial seed and root priming agent emerges as a potentially sustainable approach to enhance food production.
Maternal folic acid supplementation during pregnancy in association with childhood overweight or obesity
Authors: Hung Chi‐Yen , Lee Hsin‐Ju , Tsai Zhao‐Ting , Huang Shu‐Jung , Huang Hsin‐Yi , Tsai Hui‐Ju , Yao Tsung‐Chieh
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to examine associations of maternal folic acid supplementation (FAS) during pregnancy with childhood overweight or obesity (OWO) or adiposity.

Methods

In a population‐based cohort of 1479 children, maternal FAS during pregnancy was assessed retrospectively by questionnaires. BMI and body fat percentages were measured at a mean age of 6.4 years. Pertinent factors were accounted for in data analyses.

Results

Maternal FAS during pregnancy was negatively associated with OWO (adjusted odds ratio: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.50 to 0.99). There were inverse associations of maternal FAS during pregnancy with BMI z score (β: −0.22; 95% CI: −0.39 to −0.05), whole body fat percentage (β: −1.28; 95% CI: −2.27 to −0.30), trunk fat percentage (β: −1.41; 95% CI: −2.78 to −0.04), and limb fat percentage (β: −1.31; 95% CI: −2.32 to −0.30). Stratified analyses found inverse associations of FAS during pregnancy with OWO, BMI z score, and body fat percentages predominantly among children without breastfeeding and whose parents had a below‐tertiary educational level.

Conclusions

This study provides novel evidence that maternal FAS during pregnancy was significantly associated with a decreased risk of childhood OWO and adiposity, particularly among children with no breastfeeding and lower parental educational level.
Poetic inquiry to explore the relational values of a transforming peat landscape
Authors: Heindorf Claudia , Schüler Stefan , Plieninger Tobias
Published: April 2024

Restoring degraded peatlands is a promising strategy for mitigating carbon emissions. Large‐scale landscape transformations, such as rewetting of land used for intensive agriculture, often lead to conflicts. Elicitation of the relational values acting as barriers to landscape transformation may support the resolution or taming of such conflicts.

This study aimed to explore the relational values associated with a transforming peatland site in Northern Germany. We focused on the value of living and non‐living peat landscape elements; cultural heritage values and identities; educational values; spiritual values; recreational values; and sensory, affective and cognitive experiences. Additionally, we sought to understand how past landscape changes have influenced these values.

We conducted interviews with land managers and local residents. Using an art‐based research method, we created six thematic participant‐voiced poems that capture the diverse peatland values.

Subsequent interpretation of these poems revealed three key observations: the importance of multisensory experiences; the significance of specific living elements; and the deep cultural and historical values linked to peat landscapes. Landscape changes impact peat landscape values, potentially weakening bonds between people and the peatland.

Our study indicates that considering the cultural and historical significance of landscapes may prevent conflicts and foster support for peatland restoration. Ensuring the well‐being of those living and working in these areas requires value‐inclusive landscape planning that embraces a broader focus on relational values. This also involves the potential promotion of value shifts. Such an approach may cultivate a more sustainable and inclusive transformation of the landscape.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Synthesis and electrochemical testing of novel doped polyaniline and biomass‐derived carbon‐based composite for supercapacitors
Authors: Patil Pranoti H. , Kulkarni Vidya V. , Mane Aakanksha K. , Dongale Tukaram D. , Jadhav Sushilkumar A.
Published: April 2024

This work reports the synthesis and testing of doped polyaniline (PANI) and Pisum sativum derived activated carbon (PSAC) based composite as efficient electrode material for supercapacitors. The structure, morphology, elemental analysis, and surface area of the materials were studied using x‐ray diffraction analysis, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive x‐rays, Raman spectroscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. The electrochemical performance of the material was investigated by deposition of it on two different substrates named stainless steel (SS) and stainless‐steel mesh (SS mesh). The PSAC/PANI composite exhibited a specific capacitance of 446 and 517 F g−1 on SS and SS mesh respectively, at the scan rate of 5 mV s−1. The composite material showed higher cyclic stability on SS mesh with 91% capacitance retention after 10,000 cycles at 2 A g−1. It delivered a specific energy of 89 and 101 W h kg−1 on SS and SS mesh at a specific power of 5000 W kg−1, respectively.
An inquiry into the uncertainty mechanism: The influence of the number of layers in multilayered damping materials on composite loss factor
Authors: Qin Wenqiang , Zhang Jie , Li Jiang , Tian Huaan , Zheng Chaofan , Wu Lihua , Guo Shaoyun
Published: April 2024

Layered design is an important method for improving the loss factor of damping materials. However, the composite loss factor does not increase with the increase of the number of layers of the damping material. In response to this issue, this paper investigates the mechanism by combining experimental and simulation analyses. First, for the damping material itself, the relationship between the material loss factor and the number of damping layers was studied based on dynamic mechanical analysis. Second, for the composite structure of damping material and substrate, the relationship between the composite loss factor and the number of damping layers of the free damping structure was obtained by the cantilever resonance method, and the influence of material and structure parameters on the composite loss factor was clarified by finite element analysis. Finally, for aiming at the composite structure of damping material with constraint layer and substrate, the mechanism of the influence of the number of layers of layered damping material on the uncertainty of the composite loss factor was further investigated and discussed. The results indicated that for free damping structures, the composite loss factor increases with the increase of the number of damping layers only when the elastic modulus of the damping layer is similar to that of the substrate. For constrained damping structures, only when the constraint layer is relatively thin and has a certain amount of density and modulus, the composite loss factor of the constrained damping structure increases as the number of damping layers increases.

Highlights

The mechanism by which the number of layers of damping material affects the composite loss factor has been clarified.

The composite loss factor does not necessarily increase as the number of layers of damping material increases.

The composite loss factor of a free damping structure is mainly influenced by the Young's modulus of the damping layer.

The composite loss factor of constrained damping structures is mainly influenced by the thickness, density, and modulus of the constrained layer.
Molecular Dynamics and Binding Energetics of Fluspirilene With BACE1: Implications for Alzheimer's Disease Intervention
Authors: Bhattacharya Kunal , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Chakraborty Manodeep , Das Dibyajyoti
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a serious neurodegenerative disorder that results in cognitive deterioration, amnesia, and alterations in behavior, rendering it a significant issue in public health. The pathogenesis involves amyloid plaques highlighting the importance of targeting BACE1. This study explores fluspirilene, a di‐phenyl‐butyl‐piperidine as a potential BACE1 inhibitor for AD treatment. Fluspirilene was analyzed for ADMET. In silico molecular docking assessed fluspirilene's binding affinity with BACE1. Re‐docking a co‐crystallized ligand confirmed the docking process. Molecular dynamics simulations and related multifaceted computational analyses were conducted to assess the stability of docked complexes. Fluspirilene had good physicochemical and pharmacokinetic characteristics according to ADMET profiling. In silico molecular docking showed multiple BACE1 interactions with a binding affinity of −9.2 kcal/mol and fluspirilene–BACE1 complex stability was confirmed by molecular dynamics simulation results. Possible therapeutic applications in lowering Aβ generation and treating AD are indicated by the compound's pharmacokinetics, molecular interactions, and binding energetics. Validation and optimization of experiments are necessary for the clinical development of fluspirilene as a BACE1 inhibitor for AD.
Rechnen mit magnetischen Wirbeln
Authors: Everschor‐Sitte Karin , Msiska Robin , Majumdar Atreya
Published: April 2024

Beim physikalischen Reservoir‐Computing wird die natürliche Dynamik eines Materials für Berechnungen genutzt. Jedes System, das weniger als eine Handvoll Eigenschaften erfüllt, eignet sich als physikalisches Reservoir, dem zentralen Bestandteil eines Reservoir‐Computers. Selbst Wassereimer können so recht komplexe Aufgaben lösen. Besonders interessant sind magnetische Muster auf der Nanoskala. Dazu zählen insbesondere magnetische Wirbel, Skyrmionen, weil diese topologisch stabilisiert werden. Daraus lassen sich energieeffiziente und leicht zu steuernde Reservoirs konstruieren, die mit unserer derzeitigen Computer‐Hardware kompatibel sind. Magnetische Reservoir‐Computer demonstrierten zum Beispiel Spracherkennung und diverse Benchmark‐Probleme mit Bestleistungen.
The experiences of men on active surveillance for prostate cancer and their significant others: A qualitative synthesis
Authors: Hughes Stephanie , Everitt Hazel , Stuart Beth , Band Rebecca
Published: April 2024

Background

Active surveillance (AS) for prostate cancer (PCa) is a monitoring pathway for men with low‐grade, slow growing PCa and aims to delay or avoid active treatment by treating only in the case of disease progression. Experiences of this pathway vary but living with an untreated cancer can have a negative psychological impact on both the patient and their significant other (SO). Literature suggests partners are the primary source of support for men on AS, and therefore it is important to consider SO experiences alongside those of the patient. To the best of our knowledge this is the first UK‐based qualitative review looking specifically at experiences of AS for both men with PCa and their SOs.

Methods

MEDLINE (Ovid), EMBASE, PsychINFO, CINAHL and Cochrane Library were searched for literature reporting qualitative experiences of AS for PCa for either men on AS or SOs (or both). 2769 records were identified and screened, with 28 meeting the eligibility criteria. Qualitative data were synthesised and included men on AS (n = 428), and SOs (n = 51).

Results

Experiences of the AS pathway vary but reports of uncertainty and anxiety were present in the accounts of both men on AS and SOs. SOs are intertwined throughout every part of the PCa journey, and couples presented as a unit that were on AS together. Both patients and SOs expressed a need for more support, and highly valued peer support. Despite this finding, men expressed a dislike towards ‘support groups’.

Conclusions

Increased recognition in clinical practice of SO involvement in AS is needed. Further research is required to explore the specific types of support that would be most acceptable to this population to address the unmet support needs uncovered in this review.
‘Just Google it’—A scoping review of online mental health resources for survivors of breast cancer
Authors: Tuckey Natalie , Iasiello Matthew , Corsini Nadia , Koczwara Bogda , Bareham Monique , Wellalagodage Amy , Wardill Hannah R.
Published: April 2024

Objective

As the Internet is a ubiquitous resource for information, we aimed to replicate a patient's Google search to identify and assess the quality of online mental health/wellbeing materials available to support women living with or beyond cancer.

Methods

A Google search was performed using a key term search strategy including search strings ‘cancer’, ‘wellbeing’, ‘distress’ and ‘resources’ to identify online resources of diverse formats (i.e., factsheet, website, program, course, video, webinar, e‐book, podcast). The quality evaluation scoring tool (QUEST) was used to analyse the quality of health information provided.

Results

The search strategy resulted in 283 resources, 117 of which met inclusion criteria across four countries: Australia, USA, UK, and Canada. Websites and factsheets were primarily retrieved. The average QUEST score was 10.04 (highest possible score is 28), indicating low quality, with 92.31% of resources lacking references to sources of information.

Conclusions

Our data indicated a lack of evidence‐based support resources and engaging information available online for people living with or beyond cancer. The majority of online resources were non‐specific to breast cancer and lacked authorship and attribution.
Multiple pulmonary nodules with diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia and minute pulmonary meningothelial‐like nodules
Authors: Sasada Tsuyoshi , Tachikawa Ryo , Hara Shigeo , Tomii Keisuke
Published: April 2024

Key message

A 78‐year‐old woman presented with multiple pulmonary nodules, mixed with solid and ground‐glass nodules. We pathologically confirmed that the multiple pulmonary nodules were a combination of diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia (DIPNECH) and multiple pulmonary meningothelial‐like nodules (MPMNs). This is the first case report of concurrent DIPNECH and MPMNs.
Utility of in situ ion‐exchange membranes to assess nutrient availability, productivity, and fertilizer response of coastal Douglas‐fir of the Pacific Northwest
Authors: Littke K. M. , Holub S. M. , Bremer E. , Turnblom E.
Published: April 2024

Douglas‐fir [Pseudotsuga menziesii (Mirb.) Franco] is the predominant forest plantation species in the Pacific Northwest (PNW), with site productivity and fertilizer response influenced by climate and soil variations. This study investigates the utility of in situ 12‐week supply measurements of nitrogen (N), calcium (Ca), and phosphorus (P) to ion‐exchange resins (specifically Plant Root Simulator [PRS] probes) to estimate carbon (C):N ratios, soil nutrient contents (0–1 m), foliar nutrient concentrations, Douglas‐fir productivity (site index and basal area mean annual increment), and fertilizer volume response. PRS nutrient supply rates were correlated with N, Ca, and P soil nutrient contents (0–1 m), C:N ratios, and foliar nutrient concentrations. Low PRS NO3 supply rates (<25 mg N·m−2·burial period−1) were correlated with lower Douglas‐fir productivity and greater fertilizer volume response. PRS NO3 supply rates performed as well as total soil N contents and foliar N concentrations at estimating volume growth response to fertilizer. Twelve weeks after fertilization, PRS NO3, NH4, and Ca supply rates were significantly elevated compared to the unfertilized treatment. This research found that PRS probes were an effective in situ tool and are recommended for understanding N, Ca, and P nutrient availabilities, site productivity, and fertilizer response in Douglas‐fir plantations and for developing fertilizer prescriptions.
Effect of the Photoexcitation Wavelength and Polarization on the Generated Heat by a Nd‐Doped Microspinner at the Microscale
Authors: Ortiz‐Rivero Elisa , González‐Gómez Carlos D. , Rica Raúl A. , Haro‐González Patricia
Published: April 2024

Thermal control at small scales is critical for studying temperature‐dependent biological systems and microfluidic processes. Concerning this, optical trapping provides a contactless method to remotely study microsized heating sources. This work introduces a birefringent luminescent microparticle of NaLuF4:Nd3+ as a local heater in a liquid system. When optically trapped with a circularly polarized laser beam, the microparticle rotates and heating is induced through multiphonon relaxation of the Nd3+ ions. The temperature increment in the surrounding medium is investigated, reaching a maximum heating of ≈5 °C within a 30 µm radius around the static particle under 51 mW laser excitation at 790 nm. Surprisingly, this study reveals that the particle's rotation minimally affects the temperature distribution, contrary to the intuitive expectation of liquid stirring. The influence of the microparticle rotation on the reduction of heating transfer is analyzed. Numerical simulations confirm that the thermal distribution remains consistent regardless of spinning. Instead, the orientation‐dependence of the luminescence process emerges as a key factor responsible for the reduction in heating. The anisotropy in particle absorption and the lag between the orientation of the particle and the laser polarization angle contribute to this effect. Therefore, caution must be exercised when employing spinning polarization‐dependent luminescent particles for microscale thermal analysis using rotation dynamics.
Nanostructure and Dynamics of Aprotic Ionic Liquids at Graphite Electrodes as a Function of Potential
Authors: Wang Jianan , Li Hua , Warr Gregory G. , Chen Fangfang , Atkin Rob
Published: April 2024

Atomic force microscope (AFM) videos reveal the near‐surface nanostructure and dynamics of the ionic liquids (ILs) 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide (BMIM DCA) and 1‐hexyl‐3‐methylimidazolium dicyanamide (HMIM DCA) above highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG) electrodes as a function of surface potential. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations reveal the molecular‐level composition of the nanostructures. In combination, AFM and MD show that the near‐surface aggregates form via solvophobic association of the cation alkyl chains at the electrode interface. The diffusion coefficients of interfacial nanostructures are ≈0.01 nm2 s−1 and vary with the cation alkyl chain length and the surface potential. For each IL, the nanostructure diffusion coefficients are similar at open‐circuit potential (OCP) and OCP + 1V, but BMIM DCA moves about twice as fast as HMIM DCA. At negative potentials, the diffusion coefficient decreases for BMIM DCA and increases for HMIM DCA. When the surface potential is switched from negative to positive, a sudden change in the direction of the nanostructure motion is observed for both BMIM DCA and HMIM DCA. No transient dynamics are noted following other potential jumps. This study provides a new fundamental understanding regarding the dynamics of electrochemically stable ILs at electrodes vital for the rational development of IL‐based electrochemical devices.
Emerging Trends in Electron Transport Layer Development for Stable and Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zang Lele , Zhao Chunhu , Hu Xiaobo , Tao Jiahua , Chen Shaoqiang , Chu Junhao
Published: April 2024

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) stand at the forefront of photovoltaic research, with current efficiencies surpassing 26.1%. This review critically examines the role of electron transport materials (ETMs) in enhancing the performance and longevity of PSCs. It presents an integrated overview of recent advancements in ETMs, like TiO2, ZnO, SnO2, fullerenes, non‐fullerene polymers, and small molecules. Critical challenges are regulated grain structure, defect passivation techniques, energy level alignment, and interfacial engineering. Furthermore, the review highlights innovative materials that promise to redefine charge transport in PSCs. A detailed comparison of state‐of‐the‐art ETMs elucidates their effectiveness in different perovskite systems. This review endeavors to inform the strategic enhancement and development of n‐type electron transport layers (ETLs), delineating a pathway toward the realization of PSCs with superior efficiency and stability for potential commercial deployment.
Angular‐Dispersive Narrowband Absorption Induced by Quasi‐BIC in SiO2‐Au Metamaterial
Authors: Zheng Daoye , Lin Yu‐Sheng
Published: April 2024

Quasibound states in the continuum (BIC) have earned extensive attentions due to the capability to realize extremely high quality‐factor (Q‐factor) resonance. Here, a metamaterial composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) with low refractive index (≈1.45) on gold (Au) reflection mirror is proposed to realize narrowband perfect absorption with the assistance of quasi‐BIC and surface lattice resonance. The proposed SiO2‐Au absorber based on SiO2 metamaterial is composed of two tilted SiO2 cubes into a unit cell and periodically arranged on Au reflection mirror. By optimizing the geometry parameters, the proposed absorber presents both accidental quasi‐BIC and symmetry‐protected quasi‐BIC modes with near‐perfect absorptivity and high Q‐factor of 2330 and 1438, respectively. The Q‐factor can be further improved to 104 by increasing the thickness of SiO2 cubes to micrometer level. Meanwhile, the wavelength of absorption peak shows linear sensitivity of 16.67 and 17.88 nm per degree to incident angles as the absorptivity is higher than 92% and 75% in the spectra range of 215.0–141.0 nm, respectively. These results open the avenue for the metamaterial absorber in emitter, imaging, and biosensing applications.
Physicochemical and Morphological Properties of Litchi Seed Starch Oxidized by Different Levels of Sodium Hypochlorite
Authors: Kaur Jashanveer , Gupta Prerna , Borah Anjan
Published: April 2024

Non‐conventional starch sources have emerged as an interest due to their inherent physicochemical properties similar to conventional starches. This study aimed to enhance the value of non‐conventional litchi seed starch by employing anoxidizing process using different concentrations of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl)(0.5, 1.5, 2.5, 3.5, 4.5%). The carbonyl and carboxyl content of oxidized starch was in the range of (0.019 – 0.323%) and (0.044 – 0.425%) showing an increase with the increasing concentration of NaOCl. The native and oxidized starches were further characterized for their functional and structural properties. The amylose content of native starch was 21.52% which was reduced to (19.34 – 13.43%) upon oxidation. The water and oil absorption capacities increased with theoxidation level. The swelling power(g/g) and solubility (g/100g) for native starch were 16.17 and 16.20 and 9.5 and 31.40 for modified starch. The oxidized starch produced clearer pastes. Scanning electron microscopy revealed surface erosion and cavities in oxidized starch granulesat higher concentrations. The oxidized starch showed higher relative crystallinity. FTIR was further used to assess structural changes in starches. Therefore, it can be concluded that oxidation significantly altered the characteristics of litchi seed starch, expanding its potential applications in various industries.
Effect of Heat Moisture Treatment, Annealing, and Gelatinization‐Retrogradation Modifications on Physico‐Chemical, Functional, and Structural Properties of Starch from Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius)
Authors: Iqbal Unaiza , Saini Pinki , Ahmed Mazia
Published: April 2024

Roots and tuberous plants are vital food crops used as food supplements in many parts of the tropics. Being a major food item, starch is used in food products as thickeners, adsorbent, film forming agent. Starch, naturally, possess certain limitations & starch modifications can overcome the limitations, thereby increasing its versatility and meeting the needs of consumer. Current study focuses on comparative analysis between modified Elephant Foot Yam (Amorphophallus paeoniifolius) starch using physical methods (heat treatment method, annealing and gelatinization‐retrogradation) and to study the effect of modification on physico‐chemical, functional, structural and thermal properties. Results reveal that all physically modified starches positively altered the functional and physiological characteristics of native yam starch. However, maximum restriction in swelling power (2.54 %), solubility (2.47 %), moisture content (1.96 %), water absorption capacity (1.41 g/mL) is observed in heat moisture treated (HMT) starch. These HMT modified starches can be used in the manufacturing of baked and dairy products having reduced glycemic index, can be used as a packaging material for coating of fruits and vegetables. Henceforth, suitable and relevant application of modified starches of desired physical and functional features may be produced for industrial utilisation, or as additives fulfilling specific purposes in foods.
Coupled hydro‐mechanical pore‐scale modeling of biopore‐coated clods for upscaling soil shrinkage and hydraulic properties
Authors: Barbosa Luis Alfredo Pires , Gerke Horst H.
Published: April 2024

Earthworms and plant roots are vital for macropore formation and stabilization. The organo‐mineral coating of biopore surfaces also regulates macropore‐matrix mass exchange during preferential flow. The influence of finer‐textured burrow coatings on macroscopic soil properties during shrinkage could potentially be assessed by upscaling pore‐scale hydraulic and mechanical simulations. The aim was to investigate the influence of micro parameters (particle size, stiffness, and bond strength) on macro parameters (i.e., shrinkage curve and soil hydraulic properties). Drainage experiments and simulations were carried out using biopore‐coated clod‐size samples compared to those without coating. Simulations were performed using a two‐phase pore‐scale finite volume coupled with discrete element model (DEM‐2PFV). The structural dynamics was characterized by analyzing the pore volume and soil shrinkage curve obtained from numerically determined data. The soil hydraulic parameters were described using uni‐ and bimodal van Genuchten (vG) functions. The drainage simulations revealed hydro‐mechanical dynamics characterized by Braudeau‐shrinkage curve subdomains: The matrix‐only samples, with lower particle bond strength, exhibited relatively higher shrinkage. The coated samples, with higher particle stiffness and bond strength, displayed greater hydro‐mechanical stability. The numerically determined initial value of the saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ks) was about 70 times larger for matrix‐only samples than for coated samples. As expected, for the nonrigid soil structures, constant Ks, α, and n values for bimodal vG model resulted in prediction errors. Upscaling DEM‐2PFV pore‐scale model outcomes quantifies micro‐coating effects on macro hydro‐mechanics. This yields void ratio‐based soil water retention and hydraulic conductivity functions, advancing macroscopic soil hydraulic models and enhancing structured soil flow and transport descriptions.