bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Release of FUS into the extracellular space is regulated by its amino‐terminal prion‐like domain
Authors: Nakaya Tadashi
Published: December 2024

Fused in sarcoma (FUS) is a causative factor of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and is believed to propagate pathologically by transmission from cell to cell. However, the mechanism underlying FUS release from cells, which is a critical step for the propagation system, remains poorly understood. This study conducted an analysis of the release of human and mouse FUS from neurons, revealing that human FUS is significantly released into the media compared to its mouse counterpart. Further study using chimeric FUS proteins identified the amino‐terminal region of human FUS as essential for its release. These findings indicate that human FUS is released directly from neurons and underscore the novel functional role of its amino‐terminal region in this process.
Proteinivoracaceae
Authors: Kevbrin Vadim V. , Boltyanskaya Yulia V.
Published: December 2024

Pro.te.i.ni.vo.ra.ca.ce'ae. N.L. fem. pl. n.
Proteinivoracaceae
, the
Proteinivorax
family.

Bacillota / Clostridia / Eubacteriales / Proteinivoracaceae

The family
Proteinivoracaceae
belongs to the order
Eubacteriales
of the class
Clostridia
and contains the genera
Proteinivorax, Alkalicella,
and
Anaerobranca
. Members of the family are rod‐shaped bacteria that possess Gram‐positive cell wall type, but Gram‐staining varies among different species. Some species form endospores. Cells are motile or nonmotile. Accommodates mesophilic (
Proteinivorax
and
Alkalicella
) and thermophilic (
Anaerobranca
) representatives. Members of the family are anaerobic, alkaliphilic, and sodium‐dependent chemoheterotrophs, which use, as their preferred substrates, products of protein hydrolysis, like peptone, tryptone, soytone, and yeast extract. The use of other classes of substances is limited and requires proteinaceous additives. Members of the family are capable of reducing thiosulfate to sulfide. The diagnostic major fatty acids (present in >5%) are iso‐C
15:0
and C
16:0
. Habitats include alkaline lakes, thermo‐ and/or alkaline inlets, pools, and alkaline bioreactors.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 33.0–37.0 (genome sequence).

Type genus
:
Proteinivorax
Kevbrin et al. 2013, VL155.
Candidatus
Babelota
Authors: Moumen Bouziane , Delafont Vincent
Published: December 2024

Ba.be.lo'ta. N.L. fem. n.
Babela
, a
Candidatus
genus name; L. neut. pl. n. suff. ‐
ota
, ending to denote a phylum; N.L. neut. pl. n.
Babelota
, the
Candidatus
Babela phylum.

Candidatus
Babelota is a phylum of strictly intracellular bacteria, currently divided into two class‐level groups and at least five orders based on 16S rRNA sequence analyses. However, all known biological isolates to date belong to the same order of the Babelales, within the Babelia class. Presently, four isolates representing three families have been described and maintained in laboratory cultures through the cultivation of their hosts, which are known to be amoeboid and flagellated protists. Genomic analysis of
Ca
. Babelota consistently reveals a profound reduction in metabolic capabilities, suggesting a phylum‐wide, conserved parasitic lifestyle. To date, all lineages covered by genomic data indicate that parasitism is a defining trait of this phylum.
Ca
. Babelota exhibits a cosmopolitan environmental distribution, with sequences detected across a spectrum of habitats including soil, freshwater, and saline or hypersaline water bodies.
Defect Engineering of Bi2SeO2 Thermoelectrics
Authors: Novitskii Andrei , Toriyama Michael Y. , Serhiienko Illia , Mori Takao , Snyder G. Jeffrey , Gorai Prashun
Published: December 2024

Bi2SeO2 is a promising n‐type semiconductor to pair with p‐type BiCuSeO in a thermoelectric (TE) device. The TE figure of merit zT and, therefore, the device efficiency must be optimized by tuning the carrier concentration. However, electron concentrations in self‐doped n‐type Bi2SeO2 span several orders of magnitude, even in samples with the same nominal compositions. Such unsystematic variations in the electron concentration have a thermodynamic origin related to the variations in native defect concentrations. In this study, first‐principles calculations are used to show that the selenium vacancy, which is the source of n‐type conductivity in Bi2SeO2, varies by 1–2 orders of magnitude depending on the thermodynamic conditions. It is predicted that the electron concentration can be enhanced by synthesizing under more Se‐poor conditions and/or at higher solid‐state reaction temperatures (TSSR), which promote the formation of selenium vacancies without introducing extrinsic dopants. The computational predictions are validated through solid‐state synthesis of Bi2SeO2. More than two orders of magnitude increase are observed in the electron concentration simply by adjusting the synthesis conditions. Additionally, a significant effect of grain boundary scattering on the electron mobility in Bi2SeO2 is revealed, which can also be controlled by adjusting TSSR. By simultaneously optimizing the electron concentration and mobility, a zT of ≈0.2 is achieved at 773 K for self‐doped n‐type Bi2SeO2. The study highlights the need for careful control of thermodynamic growth conditions and demonstrates TE performance improvement by varying synthesis parameters according to thermodynamic guidelines.
Aligned Fiber Induced Laser‐Driven Bamboo Diffuser Enabling Highly Directional Illumination Applications
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhang Lei , Meng Yuan , Chen Xueqi , Chang Liang , Guo Wenjing , Wang Yuchen , Tang Qiheng
Published: December 2024

Directional optical diffusers provide customizable spatial intensity light distributions and have potential applications in next‐generation directional lighting devices. The manufacturing procedures for directional lighting devices suffer from insufficient directionality, complex manufacturing conditions, and unsustainability. Herein, bamboo is processed directly into a directional laser‐driven bamboo diffuser (LDBD) by delignification and subsequent impregnation with a polymer (poly(ethylene glycol)diacrylate and epoxy acrylate) with a mismatched refractive index. The LDBD shows a distinctly elliptical directional light distribution under laser irradiation. Then, a bright, efficient, and tunable white directional lighting from Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ (YAG: Ce)‐added LDBDs is obtained by regulating the power of a 450 nm laser and YAG: Ce concentration. Optimal white lighting by the LDBD is obtained at a power of 400 mW and 1% YAG: Ce concentration. This provides standard white CIE 1931 chromaticity coordinates (0.33, 0.33), suitable correlated color temperature (5406 K), and high color rendering index (81.2%). Furthermore, the optimized bamboo diffuser exhibits satisfactory mechanical properties, as well as long‐term thermal and water resistance. Due to the unique materials design and facile fabrication strategy, LDBD shows promise for optical fiber‐guided, non‐contact, long‐distance, undersea, and other highly directional laser lighting applications.
Interface Stable Kinetics Triggered by Interfacial Built‐In Electric Field in Solid‐State Sodium‐Metal Battery
Authors: Yang Dongrong , Guan Qiye , Wang Baowen , Zhang Da , Ren Kun , Zhou Huangkai , Li Xiaoyu , Zhou Yingjie , Cai Yongqing , Liu Pan , Zhao Lanqing , Hou Minjie , Yang Bin , Xue Dongfeng , Liang Feng
Published: December 2024

Solid‐state sodium‐metal batteries (SSSBs) have emerged as a potential next‐generation energy storage technology due to their abundant resource, high energy density, and safety. However, the uncontrolled Na dendrite growth and low charging/discharging rate pose a severe constraint on their practical applications. Herein, high interfacial sodium‐ion diffusion performance and interface stability of Na anode are achieved in SSSBs by designing an interfacial built‐in electric field (IBEF) driven by a laminated hybrid solid electrolyte with a mixed‐ion/electron‐conducting layer. The electrochemical characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that IBEF effectively improves interfacial sodium‐ion diffusion by reinforcing electron delocalization and decreasing Na+ transfer energy barrier. Furthermore, finite element simulation and experiments indicate that the IBEF endows a uniform interfacial charge distribution and Na deposition during plating/stripping. The IBEF boosts the cyclability of solid‐state symmetric cells, enabling ultralong cycle life over 26 400 cycles at 0.1 mA cm−2, the Na/Na3V2(PO4)3 (NVP) full cells display a remarkable capacity retention of 97.4% after 1500 cycles at 2.0 C and stable charging/discharging even at −20 °C. Na/NVP pouch cells exhibit a capacity of 65.7 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles under 0.19 mA g−1.
A Novel Aliphatic Ketone‐Based Solid Polymer Electrolyte with High Salt‐Soluble Ability Enabling Highly Stable Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Jiang Yuchen , Wujieti Baerlike , Liu Yu , Zeng Qinghui , Li Zhenfeng , Guan Jiazhu , Wang Honghao , Chen Lin , Cao Yong , Li Rongzheng , Zhou Yajuan , Zhou Henghui , Cui Wei , Zhang Liaoyun
Published: December 2024

Low room temperature ionic conductivity and interfacial incompatibility are the key factors that hinder the practical application of solid polymer electrolyte (SPEs) in lithium metal batteries. Increasing the ability of the SPEs to dissolve and dissociate lithium salt is helpful to enhance ion transport capacity of the SPEs. Herein, ketone groups with high solubility and dissociation ability of lithium salt are introduced into the structural design of SPE, an aliphatic ketone solid polymer electrolyte (KT@SPE) with crosslinking structure is prepared by ultraviolet (UV) polymerization. The prepared KT@SPE shows excellent viscoelastic and possess room temperature ionic conductivity of 10−4 S cm−1 with 200 wt% lithium bis((trifluoromethyl)sulfonyl)azanide (LiTFSI). Thanks to the contribution of high ion transport capacity, construction of multi‐hydrogen bonds network structure of KT@SPE and a wettability of controlling residual dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solvent to the interface, the assembled symmetrical Li cell realizes stable cycling for over 2000 h at 0.15 mA cm−2. Moreover, LiFePO4 cell achieves stable long cycle at 5C and enable Li/KT@SPE3/LiFe0.6Mn0.4PO4 cell operates at 4.4 V. This work not only provides a design strategy for preparing novel solid polymer electrolytes, but also exhibits the excellent application potential of aliphatic ketone‐based polymer electrolyte in solid‐state lithium batteries at high current density and high voltage.
Atomically Dispersed Dual Metal Sites Anchored Catalyst Enables Photothermally Augmented Catalytic Oxidation for Biocatalytic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Wang Lulu , Nan Jin , Zhang Jingyi , Du Chengjuan , Xiang Huijing , Chen Yu , Zhang Jun
Published: December 2024

Single‐atom nanozymes (SAzymes) can maximize atomic utilization efficiency and construct highly active catalytic sites for biomedical applications. Herein, atomically dispersed iron (Fe) and cobalt (Co) dual sites anchored N‐doped graphene carbon (FeCoCN) catalyst is rationally constructed to achieve photothermally augmented catalytic oxidation for effective biocatalytic tumor nanotherapy. Compared with Fe SAzyme, FeCoCN SAzyme can significantly accelerate the charge transfer and improve the activity of catalytic reactions. Co‐doping optimizes coordination structure and charge redistribution by facilitating the ratio of Fe2+ and regulating charge transfer between different metal sites and nearby coordination atoms. Bimetallic FeCoCN SAzyme possessed an ultra‐high affinity for substrate H2O2, and the catalytic kinetic Km value (0.589 mm) is superior to natural catalase and most reported nanozymes. The boosted catalytic activity in producing •OH is identified by density functional theory (DFT) studies. In vivo, investigation demonstrates that atomically dispersed Fe and Co dual sites anchored FeCoCN SAzyme significantly suppresses tumor proliferation under NIR laser irradiation by photothermally enhanced catalytic oxidation. Additionally, Fe‐ and Co‐doping in FeCoCN make it suitable as a tracer for T2 magnetic resonance imaging. This work provides a paradigm to rationally design bimetallic SAzymes with enhanced biocatalytic performance for tumor treatment.
Pinning the Surface Layered Oxide Structure in High Temperature Calcination Using Conformal Atomic Layer Deposition Coating for Fast Charging Cathode
Authors: Cai Xincan , Yan Pu , Xie Tianye , Wu Yifan , Zheng Caihong , Shang Rongliang , Yin Shuaishuai , Zhang Yue , Zheng Fan , Liu Xuerong , Xie Jin
Published: December 2024

In the solid‐state synthesis of layered oxides, achieving cathode powder with precise morphology, crystal structure, and surface properties demands a delicate balance between thermodynamics and kinetics. Elevated temperatures are indispensable for driving the reaction toward completion, facilitating the formation of ordered layered structures essential for efficient lithium‐ion transportation in Li‐ion batteries. However, high temperatures risk inducing Li/Ni mixing and rock‐salt formation, particularly pronounced in layered oxides rich in Ni content, detrimentally impacting their performance. To address this challenge, the approach involves a precisely designed conformal coating with a high affinity for oxygen atoms, strategically employed to pin the surface layered oxide structure even under elevated temperatures. By preventing undesired surface decomposition during the high‐temperature lithiation process, this innovation fosters the formation of well‐ordered layered structures on the surface. Consequently, this pioneering strategy substantially mitigated phase separation during high‐rate cycling, thereby unlocking exceptional rate capability and cycle stability in layered oxide cathodes. The strategy establishes a new pathway for synthesizing next‐generation, high‐power density battery materials.
Controllable Synthesis of Se Microwires and Mixed‐Dimensional Se/MoS2 Vertical Heterostructures for Nonlinear Optical Applications
Authors: Ma Xinrui , Wang Kaiyi , Fan Chen , Li Xuanbang , Hao Yulong , Zhou Jie , Lu Xuemei , Shu Ting , Miao Lili , Li Jin , Hao Guolin
Published: December 2024

Selenium (Se), as a typical elemental semiconductor, has garnered significant attention due to its excellent carrier mobility, outstanding photoconductivity, and broad spectral response. However, Se micro‐ and nanostructures exhibit inherently low nonlinear optical coefficients, necessitating substantial enhancement of their nonlinear optical properties. In this study, trigonal Se (t‐Se) microwires (MWs) and t‐Se/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional vertical heterostructures are synthesized using the atmospheric pressure vapor phase deposition method. the influence of precursor concentration on the growth of t‐Se MWs is systematically investigated, and computational fluid dynamics simulations are employed to elucidate the growth mechanism. Open‐aperture Z‐scan measurements reveal that the nonlinear optical properties of t‐Se/MoS2 mixed‐dimensional vertical heterostructures are significantly enhanced compared to those of t‐Se MWs and monolayer MoS2 nanosheets. First‐principles calculations based on density functional theory, along with surface potential measurements indicate that effective charge transfer across the interfaces of the vertical heterostructures is critical for enhancing their nonlinear optical properties. This study provides valuable insights into the development of next‐generation nonlinear optical materials and advanced devices.
Wavelength Tunable Second Harmonic Generation from Photonic Crystal Vertical Cavities
Authors: Bai Lu , Qu Lun , Wu Wei , Gu Zhidong , Liu Weiye , Zhao Xueqian , Wang Lishuan , Cai Wei , Liu Huasong , Ren Mengxin , Xu Jingjun
Published: December 2024

Flexible wavelength tunability is a critical specification for second‐harmonic generation (SHG) light sources. In the evolving landscape of future technologies, the photonic crystal (PhC) vertical cavity emerges as a promising platform for developing ultracompact SHG devices. However, the reduced size of PhC vertical cavities necessitates a departure from conventional tuning methodologies rooted in traditional phase‐matching frameworks. In this study, an SHG tuning strategy is presented that exploits the relationship between the resonance properties of the cavity and its SHG response. By systematically adjusting the incident angle of fundamental light, we demonstrate the precise tuning of cavity resonance, consequently tuning the SHG conversion efficiency spectra across a spectral bandwidth of about 30 nm. This research contributes to profound understanding of the physical process for flexible wavelength tunability at the nanoscale beyond conventional phase‐matching frameworks, offering insights for the development of tunable SHG sources in integrated photonics and nanoscale optical devices.
Photo‐Sensitive Bi‐Doped TiO2 Nanocrystals with Reversible Single and Multimode Color Transformations for Rewritable Printing
Authors: Wen Zeyulong , Yang Xiaoli , Macharia Daniel K. , Feng Qingyang , Lv Hanhan , Wen Mei , Yu Nuo , Chen Zhigang
Published: December 2024

The integration of intrinsic chromism with catalytic reactions in semiconductor/redox‐driven light‐responsive color switching systems (LRCSs) can realize multimode color transitions, but such systems are unreported due to a lack of synergy and background color effect. Here, polyol‐capped Bi‐doped TiO2 nanocatalysts with reversible intrinsic chromism are designed for the catalytic transformation of redox‐sensitive dyes. The photo‐induced transformation of Bi‐doped TiO2 nanocrystals leads to instantaneous reduction of Bi3+/Ti4+ to Bi0/Ti3+ species, resulting in intrinsic chromic transitions that can be reversed by photooxidation. The combination of photo‐sensitive Bi‐doped TiO2 nanocrystals with redox‐sensitive dyes and polymer substrates can realize rewritable films with multimode color transitions. Exposure of these films to 365 nm light activates cascaded reactions enabled by polyol molecules, leading to effective carrier separation and partial reduction of Bi3+/Ti4+ species. The reductive electrons react with the dyes culminating in their rapid decoloration. The reverse color transition can be achieved by 808 nm light irradiation in air, which activates the photooxidation process. The rewritable films have good cyclability and reversibility (>30 cycles). This work gives new perspectives into integrating chromism and secondary catalytic reactions for reversible printing for time‐sensitive information storage which can be implemented in light‐activated rewritable media and sensors.
Viral‐Mediated Connexin 26 Expression Combined with Dexamethasone Rescues Hearing in a Conditional Gjb2 Null Mice Model
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Zhang Li , Chen Sen , Xie Le , Qiu Yue , Kong Chenyang , Yin Ge , Kong Weijia , Sun Yu
Published: December 2024

GJB2 encodes connexin 26 (Cx26), the most commonly mutated gene causing hereditary non‐syndromic hearing loss. Cx26 is mainly expressed in supporting cells (SCs) and fibrocytes in the mammalian cochlea. Gene therapy is currently considered the most promising strategy for eradicating genetic diseases. However, there have been no significant effects of gene therapy for GJB2 gene mutation‐associated deafness because deficiency of Cx26 leads to expanded sensory epithelial damage. In this study, the AAV2.7m8 serotype combined with the gfaABC1D promoter targeted infection of SCs is identified. It is found that Gjb2 gene replacement therapy in wild‐type mice results in sensory hair cells (HCs) deficits, excessive inflammatory responses, and hearing loss. This may be one of the key factors contributing to the hardship of GJB2 gene replacement therapy. Dexamethasone (DEX) shows promising results in inhibiting macrophage recruitment, with a protective effect against HC damage. Further, the combination of AAV2.7m8‐Gjb2 with DEX shows a synergistic effect and enhances the gene therapy effect in a conditional Cx26 null mice model. These results indicate that the combination of gene therapy and medication will provide a new strategy for the treatment of hereditary deafness associated with GJB2 defects.
Low‐Cost Intrinsic Flame‐Retardant Bio‐Based High Performance Polyurethane and its Application in Triboelectric Nanogenerators
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Yan Xixian , Zeng Fanglei , Zhang Hao , Li Peiyao , Zhang Haiyang , Li Ning , Guan Qingbao , You Zhengwei
Published: December 2024

Flammability is a significant challenge in polymer‐based electronics. In this regard, triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) have enabled a safe means for harvesting mechanical energy for conversion into electrical energy. However, most existing polymers used for TENGs are sourced from petroleum‐based raw materials and are highly flammable, which can further accelerate the spread of fire and harm the ecological environment. In addition, the existing intrinsic flame‐retardant TENGs are not elastic at room temperature, which may potentially damage the flexible equipment and harm firefighters. This study presents an intrinsic flame‐retardant bio‐based elastic phytic acid polyurethane (PUPA) synthesized using a simple and efficient one‐pot polycondensation. The cross‐linked structure and polar phosphorus‐containing segments of PUPA are fabricated into PUPA‐TENG, demonstrating a superior elasticity (elongation up to 660%), flame retardancy (UL94 V‐0), impact resistance (34.71 MJ m−3), and dielectric constant (Dk = 9.57). Consequently, this study provides a simple strategy for tailoring TENGs toward environmentally friendly and secure power generators and electronics, which can effectively reduce fire hazards and potentially be applied to other fire‐risk fields such as personal protection, firefighting, and new energy.
Terahertz‐Wave Polarization Space‐Division Multiplexing Meta‐Devices based on Spin‐Decoupled Phase Control
Authors: Xu Yuehong , Takida Yuma , Suzuki Tetsu , Minamide Hiroaki
Published: December 2024

This study presents a generalized design strategy for novel terahertz‐wave polarization space‐division multiplexing meta‐devices, functioning as multi‐polarization generators, modulators, and analyzers. It introduces the spin‐decoupled phase control method by combining gradient phase design with circular polarization multiplexing techniques, enabling exceptional flexibility in controlling the polarization directions and spatial distributions of multiple output beams. The meta‐device M‐4D is significantly demonstrated as proof of concept, which converts an incident linearly polarized wave into four beams with distinct polarization angles. Additionally, the advanced meta‐devices M‐2B and M‐4B are designed to generate two‐vector and four‐vector Bessel beams with tunable spatial polarization distributions. These meta‐devices demonstrate dynamic multi‐polarization beam modulation, validated through simulations and experiments. The proposed method significantly expands the design methodology for multi‐beam polarization control using all‐dielectric metasurfaces and holds promising potential for applications in imaging, sensing, particle manipulation, communication, and information processing. Moreover, it holds potential for adaptation to other spectral ranges.
Bio‐inspired Catalyst‐Modified Photocathode for Bias‐Free Photoelectrochemical NADH Regeneration
Authors: Zhao Ziqi , Wu Yizhou , Liu Chang , Li Yingzheng , Gong Chen , Ning Hongxia , Zhang Peili , Li Fei , Sun Licheng , Li Fusheng
Published: December 2024

Cofactors such as nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and its phosphorylated form (NADPH) play a crucial role in natural enzyme‐catalyzed reactions for the synthesis of chemicals. However, the stoichiometric supply of NADH for artificial synthetic processes is uneconomical. Here, inspired by the process of cofactor NADPH regeneration in photosystem I (PSI), catalyst‐modified photocathodes are constructed on the surface of polythiophene‐based semiconductors (PTTH) via self‐assembly for photoelectrochemical catalytic NADH regeneration. With the assistance of viologen (vi2+) electron transfer mediators (similar function as Ferredoxin in PSI) linked to the [Rh(Cp*)(bpy)] catalyst, the Rh‐vi2+@PTTH photocathode exhibits higher photocurrent density (−665 µA cm−2) with a high apparent turnover frequency (TOF, 168.4 h−1) under a relatively positive potential (0.0 V vs RHE). In addition, through holistic functional mimics of the photosystem, a tandem photoelectrochemical cell is constructed by assembling a CoPi@BiVO4 photoanode (artificial photosystem II, PSII) with the Rh‐vi2+@PTTH photocathode. This system achieves a production rate of 42.5 µm h−1 cm−2 and a TOF of 179.3 h−1 without an externally applied bias for NADH regeneration. The photo‐generated NADH is directly employed to assist glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) in the catalytic conversion of α‐ketoglutarate to L‐glutamate. This study presents a novel strategic approach for constructing bias‐free photoelectrochemical NADH regeneration systems.
Emergence, growth, and quality of Calycophyllum spruceanum plants produced in different containers and substrates
Authors: Guerra‐Arévalo Wilson Francisco , Cercado‐Delgado José Roy , Espinoza‐García Héctor Francisco , Ucañay‐Ayllon Tatiana Mildred , García‐Soria Diego Gonzalo , Abanto‐Rodríguez Carlos , Castillo‐Torres Dennis del , Freitas‐Alvarado Luis Ernesto , Díaz‐Soria Rossana , Guerra‐Arévalo Héctor
Published: December 2024

The growing demand for Calycophyllum spruceanum is causing strong pressure on natural populations due to anthropogenic activities. For this reason, it is urgent to develop propagation technologies and production of plants for reforestation activities and establishment of forest plantations for their use and conservation. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of different substrates and containers on the emergence and growth of C. spruceanum. For this purpose, two experiments were conducted. In the first, four substrates were tested to evaluate seedling emergence, while in the second, the growth and quality of plants in different containers and substrates were determined. The maximum emergence values of 62.3%, emergency speed index (ESI) of 2.2, and mean emergence time of 29.9 were determined using a combination of carbonized rice husk (CRH), chicken manure, and decomposed sawdust in a 1:1:1 ratio. The combination of the plastic bag container with CRH and poultry manure in a 1:1 ratio. Substrate gave the best results for total dry biomass (27.40), lignification index (0.19), robustness index (5.56), and Dickson's quality index (3.26). Therefore, the use of CRH, poultry manure, and decomposed sawdust in a 1:1:1 ratio is recommended for seedling emergence. Similarly, the use of a plastic bag‐type container and the substrate CRH and chicken manure in a 1:1 ratio is recommended for the production of C. spruceanum plants.
Fine‐Tuning of the Sequential Self‐Assembly of Entangled Polyhedra by Exploiting the Side‐Chain Effect
Authors: Domoto Yuya , Nakabayashi Ren , Tsurumi Tasuki , Yamamoto Kidai , Hayashi Hironobu , Nakamura Yosuke , Fujita Makoto
Published: December 2024

The control of the sequential self‐assembly processes of highly entangled (Ag3L2)n (n=2,4,6,8) and Ag21L12 coordination polyhedra using side‐chain effects was studied via the introduction of linear or branched side chains into the tripodal ligands. In addition to changes in the intermediate polyhedral species affording the multi‐ pathway process, disruption of the kinetic control of the sequential self‐assembly was observed, thus demonstrating the utility of steric control for the construction of 3D‐entangled molecular materials on the 5 nm scale with high molecular complexity.
Ni(II)‐Directed Supramolecular Metallogel: Stimuli Responsiveness and Semiconducting Device Fabrication
Authors: Singh Surajit , Chhetri Shant , Haldar Debasish
Published: December 2024

Metal‐organic gels (MOGs) are a type of supramolecular complex that have become highly intriguing due to their synergistic combination of inorganic and organic elements. We report the synthesis and characterization of a Ni‐directed supramolecular gel using chiral amino acid L–DOPA (3,4‐dihydroxy phenylalanine) containing ligand, which coordinates with Ni(II) to form metal‐organic gels with exceptional properties. The functional Ni(II)‐gel was synthesized by heating nickel(II) acetate hexahydrate and the L–DOPA containing ligand in DMSO at 70 °C. The rheological tests have verified the gel with its mechanical stability, while a SEM image has shown a spherical aggregate morphology. The gel is photo‐responsive in nature and exhibits gel to sol transformation upon adsorption of toxic gases like NH3 or H2S. Notably, electrical conductivity of the gel was observed in electronic metal‐semiconductor (MS) junctions’ devices with a measured conductivity of 0.9×10−6 Sm−1. These devices also exhibited Schottky barrier diode characteristics, underscoring the multifunctional potential of the Ni(II)‐gel.
Developing and Comparing Four Families of Bayesian Network Autocorrelation Models for Binary Outcomes: Estimating Peer Effects Involving Adoption of Medical Technologies
Authors: Chen Guanqing , O'Malley A. James
Published: December 2024

Despite the extensive use of network autocorrelation models in social network analysis, network autocorrelation models for binary dependent variables have received surprisingly scant attention. In this paper, we develop four network autocorrelation models for a binary random variable defined by whether the peer effect (also termed social influence or contagion) acts on latent continuous outcomes leading to an indirect effect under a normal or a logistic distribution or on the probability of the observed outcome itself under a probit or a logit link function defining a direct effect to account for interdependence between outcomes. For all models, we use a Bayesian approach for model estimation under a uniform prior on a transformed peer effect parameter () designed to enhance model computation and compare results to those under the uniform prior for . We use simulation to assess the performance of Bayesian point and interval estimators for each of the four models when the model that generated the data is used for estimation (precision assessment) and when each of the other three models instead generated the data (robustness assessment). We construct a United States New England region patient‐sharing hospital network and apply the four network autocorrelation models to study the adoption of robotic surgery, a new medical technology, among hospitals using a cohort of United States Medicare beneficiaries in 2016 and 2017. Finally, we develop a deviance information criterion for each of the four models to compare their fit to the observed data and use posterior predictive p‐values to assess the models' ability to recover specified features of the data. The results find that although the indirect peer effect of the propensity of peer hospital adoption on that of the focal hospital is positive under both latent response autocorrelation models, the direct peer effect of the peer hospital's probability of adopting robotic surgery on the probability of the focal hospital adopting robotic surgery decreases under both mean autocorrelation data models. However, neither of these associations is statistically significant.
Suppression of tobacco thrips with insecticides and survey of grower practices to control this pest in peanut
Authors: Pendleton Brittany , Brandenburg Rick L. , Royals Brian , Reisig Dominic , Jordan David L. , Johnson P. Dewayne , Hare Andrew , Foote Ethan , Malone Sean , Anco Dan
Published: December 2024

Tobacco thrips (Frankliniella fusca Hinds) feeding can reduce peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) yield and vector Tomato spotted wilt orthotospovirus (family Tospoviridae, genus Orthotospovirus). Visible injury caused by tobacco thrips feeding was recorded from 2013 to 2022 at one location in North Carolina when peanut was not treated with insecticide, when imidacloprid or phorate was applied in the seed furrow at planting, and when acephate was applied to peanut approximately 21 days after peanut emergence. A positive linear response for peanut injury caused by tobacco thrips was observed from 2013 through 2022 for non‐treated peanut and peanut treated with imidacloprid and phorate. No difference in injury caused by tobacco thrips was noted for acephate. In a survey of farmers in 2022 cropping cycle, the most popular systemic insecticide applied at planting for this pest in North Carolina and Virginia was imidacloprid. The majority of farmers in these states indicated that control of tobacco thrips was more difficult now than in previous years, and that they made routine applications of acephate to control this pest.
Realization of PVT Independent Current‐Mode CMOS Exponential Circuit
Authors: Abouelezz Mazen M. , Al‐Absi Muneer A.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a CMOS current‐mode exponential circuit using CMOS technology. The design is insensitive to process, voltage, and temperature (PVT). The circuit is based on the Tylor series approximation of the exponential function and employs MOSFET operating in saturation. CADENCE Virtuoso tools are used to simulate the proposed design functionality in 0.18 µm of TSMC CMOS technology. The circuit is powered by a 1.25‐volt DC source and has normalized input range of 1. The maximum temperature error of the circuit is  0.13 dB over a range of 100°C. The circuit can be used in applications up to 1.25 MHz of applications.
Parotid Keratocystoma: Fine Needle Aspiration Cytomorphology With Ancillary Testing Results
Authors: Klijanienko Jerzy , Gauthier Arnaud , Brisse Hervé J. , Pierron Gaelle , Orbach Daniel
Published: December 2024

Keratocystoma is a rare benign salivary gland tumor described in 1999. Only 14 cases have been reported in the histopathological literature, with three of them having had a preoperative fine needle aspiration (FNA) performed. All cytological diagnoses were not specific.

We have seen a 12‐month‐old boy presenting a left parotid mass with facial nerve paralysis. FNA showed the presence of numerous mature squamous cells and some calcifications. The corresponding core needle biopsy showed identical morphologic features with no signs of malignancy. MAML2 FISH was negative, but IRF2BP2/RUNX2 fusion transcript was detected, which confirmed the diagnosis of keratocystoma.

Despite its benign nature, keratocystoma should be differentiated from other salivary gland tumors such as Warthin's tumor with squamous cell metaplasia, mucoepidermoid carcinoma, primary vs. metastatic squamous cell carcinoma, and necrotizing sialometaplasia.
Postauricular Approach for Enucleation of Cervical Vagal Schwannomas
Authors: Roh Jong‐Lyel
Published: December 2024

Background

This study evaluates the outcomes of intracapsular enucleation using the retroauricular hairline incision (RAHI) approach for treating cervical vagal schwannomas.

Methods

A longitudinal study was conducted on patients with cervical vagal schwannomas. Eleven patients who underwent RAHI‐based enucleation were included. Preoperative imaging was performed using contrast‐enhanced MRI. Postoperative evaluations assessed pain, neurological function, cosmetic outcomes, voice, and swallowing functions.

Results

Eleven patients underwent surgery. The median tumor size was 4.6 cm. The median operation time was 42 min, with minimal bleeding. Common complications were earlobe numbness (45%) and temporary vocal cord paralysis (27%), which were resolved within a year. Cosmetic satisfaction was high, with median VAS scores of nine for scars and 10 for facial deformities. No significant dysphagia was found. No recurrences were observed over a median follow‐up of 79 months.

Conclusions

Intracapsular enucleation using the RAHI approach is a safe and effective method for treating cervical vagal schwannomas.
Comparative efficacy and safety of PD‐1 versus PD‐L1 inhibitors in breast cancer treatment: A systematic review and meta analysis
Authors: Xie Xintong , Chen Lingzhu , Kong Xiangyi , Huo Yujia , Huang Weiyuan , Huang Junjie , Zhang Lin , Jiang Hongnan , Gao Jidong
Published: December 2024

The comparative efficacy and safety of programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) inhibitors versus programmed death protein 1 (PD‐1) inhibitors in breast cancer treatment remain inconclusive, as no head‐to‐head randomized controlled trials (RCTs) conducted. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors as monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy for breast cancer. A systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed using major databases and oncology conference proceedings. The primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) for advanced breast cancer and pathological complete response (PCR) rate for early breast cancer. Secondary outcomes included progression‐free survival (PFS) for advanced breast cancer and incidence of adverse events (AEs). Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria, consisting of seven RCTs on early‐stage and 10 on advanced breast cancer. For advanced breast cancer, PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors modestly improved OS compared to chemotherapy, with no significant differences between PD‐1 and PD‐L1 inhibitors. PD‐L1 inhibitors showed greater improvement in PFS compared to PD‐1 inhibitors. The likelihood of AEs of any grade was higher with PD‐L1 inhibitor treatment than with PD‐1 inhibitor treatment. In early breast cancer, combining PD‐1/PD‐L1 inhibitors with chemotherapy inducing higher PCR rates than chemotherapy alone, with PD‐1 inhibitors achieving better outcomes than PD‐L1 inhibitors. PD‐1 inhibitors were linked to slightly higher rates of grade >2 AEs compared to PD‐L1 inhibitors. The findings indicate that PD‐1 inhibitors may offer advantages for advanced breast cancer due to similar OS and a lower rate of AEs. For early breast cancer, PD‐1 inhibitors are recommended given their superior PCR rates.
Arsenic‐Induced Inflammatory Response via ROS‐Dependent Activation of ERK/NF‐kB Signaling Pathways: Protective Role of Natural Polyphenol Tannic Acid
Authors: Mishra Sehal , Botlagunta Mahendran , Rajasekaran Subbiah
Published: December 2024

Arsenic (As), a highly toxic metalloid, is present throughout our environment as a result of both natural and human‐related activities. Furthermore, As exposure could lead to a persistent inflammatory response, which may facilitate the pathogenesis of several diseases in various organs. This study was performed to investigate the As‐induced inflammatory response and the underlying molecular mechanisms in vitro. Further, the anti‐inflammatory effects of a natural dietary polyphenol tannic acid (TA) were also explored. In human normal bronchial (BEAS‐2B), adenocarcinoma alveolar basal (A549), and murine macrophages (J774) cell lines, a trivalent form of As (as As3+) exposure markedly induced the expression of various pro‐inflammatory mediators (cytokines and chemokines). Additionally, it was found that As3+ exposure induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and activation of the nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐kB) p65 and extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 pathways in BEAS‐2B cells. As expected, the blockade of either ERK1/2 (PD98059) or NF‐kB p65 (IMD0354), or both pathways attenuated As3+‐induced pro‐inflammatory mediators release. Interestingly, pre‐treatment with ROS inhibitor N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) attenuated activation of ERK/NF‐kB pathways, suggesting that ROS have a critical role in pathway's activation and subsequent inflammatory response. Further, TA pre‐treatment effectively attenuated As3+‐induced inflammatory response by suppressing ROS production and ERK/NF‐kB signaling pathways activation. Therefore, this study provides scientific evidence for the anti‐inflammatory activities of TA and the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Leaf Micromorphological Characteristics of Korean Rush and Their Taxonomic Implications Based on Microscopic Analysis
Authors: Choi Young‐Min , Choi Bokyung , Lee Changyoung , Paik Jin‐Hyub , Jang Tae‐Soo
Published: December 2024

The genus Juncus L., comprising approximately 310 species, is a perennial herbaceous plant with the highest species diversity among Juncaceae. Although external leaf morphological and anatomical characteristics were used for taxonomic delimitation of Korean Juncus taxa, the micromorphological structure of Juncus is not comprehensively described. Our main objective was to determine whether leaf micromorphological comparisons among the studied Korean Juncus taxa could provide taxonomically informative characteristics. Korean rushes possessed both unifacial and bifacial leaves, although the patterns of cell outlines on the abaxial surfaces of cataphyll and cauline leaves and stems were similar. Leaf and stem epidermal cells were irregularly arranged and exhibited rectangular, rhomboidal, and polygonal shapes. Striations on epidermal cells are common in almost all species of the genus Juncus; however, scaly epicuticular wax is found only in J. setchuensis. The stomatal complexes of the studied Korean Juncus taxa were uniformly paracytic (stomata surrounded by two subsidiary cells), regardless of their occurrence in cataphyll and cauline leaves or on the stem surface. Guard cell length could be important taxonomic characters in Korean Juncus taxa, in accordance with traditional taxonomy, which distinguishes the two subgenera based on morphological characters. Differences in guard cell length and stomatal density were also influenced by external environmental factors but were not clearly correlated with variations in ploidy levels.
Ventricular Discordance as an MRI Phenotype Provides Prognostic Value Among Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Xiang Jin‐Yi , Zhao Yun , Xie Wei‐Hui , An Dong‐Aolei , Chen Bing‐Hua , Wu Rui , Wu Chong‐Wen , Shi Ruo‐Yang , Zhou Yan , Zhao Lei , Lu Min‐Jie , Wu Lian‐Ming
Published: December 2024

Background

In arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM), left ventricle‐dominant presentation has poorer outcomes than right‐dominant presentation, suggesting that interventricular functional disparity might play a role in patients' prognosis. However, the prognostic impact of ventricular functional discordance in ACM patients remains unknown.

Purpose

To assess whether ventricular functional disparity measured as ventricular discordance index, defined as the ratio of right‐ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) to left‐ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), might reveal prognostic disparities between phenotypes and offer added risk stratification value.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

A total of 222 patients with ACM (mean age 44 ± 16 years, 144 males) from three centers were included.

Field Strength/Sequence

3‐T, cine imaging.

Assessment

Ventricular discordance index was calculated using cine‐derived RVEF and LVEF, for which a threshold was determined using Youden J index. Clinically ventricular discordance was defined as ventricular discordance index above the threshold. The major adverse cardiac events (MACE), was defined as sudden cardiac death, appropriate implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator intervention, and aborted cardiac arrest. International task diagnostic force criteria and the 5‐year risk score were evaluated.

Statistical Tests

The prognostic implications of ventricular discordance index and clinically ventricular discordance were evaluated using multivariable Cox analysis. P < 0.05 indicated the statistical significance.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 50 months, 81 (37%) patients experienced MACE. The ventricular discordance index was independently associated with MACE (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.23–1.82). Patients classified under clinically ventricular discordance experienced higher MACE rates and were less likely to meet the task force structural criteria. clinically ventricular discordance was independently associated with MACE (adjusted HR: 2.2; 95% CI: 1.36–3.55). Clinically ventricular discordance, LV involvement and the 5‐year risk score in combined reclassified 20.3% of patients compared to 2015 task force classification.

Data Conclusion

Ventricular discordance was associated with MACE in ACM, potentially providing prognostic value beyond the 5‐year risk score.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

5
Simple GCM Simulations of Rainfall Over Northeast Brazil, Part 1: Systematic Effect of Canonical Sea Surface Temperature Patterns
Authors: Hounsou‐Gbo Aubains , Hall Nicholas M. J. , Cardoso Leticia , das Chagas Vasconcelos Junior Francisco , Martins Eduardo
Published: December 2024

The response of February to April (FMA) Northeast Brazil precipitation to tropical sea surface temperature anomaly (SSTA) patterns is analysed by making ensemble seasonal forecasts with a simple GCM. The physical and dynamical link between the SSTAs and regional precipitation is examined for a set of tropical Pacific and Atlantic SSTAs, both separately and in combination. Five canonical SSTA patterns are considered: El Niño (strong eastern Pacific and moderate central Pacific); La Niña and the tropical North and South Atlantic. The model's anomaly responses to persisted SSTAs correspond quite well to observed precipitation regressions against SSTA timeseries: dry for El Niño and warm North Atlantic, wet for La Niña and warm South Atlantic. Experiments with reversed SSTAs show that model nonlinearity has a drying effect over northeastern South America. Combined tropical Atlantic SSTA patterns result in wet conditions over northern Northeast Brazil for a warm Atlantic or a negative dipole, and dry conditions for the contrary, so the South Atlantic has a greater impact than the North Atlantic. Combining SSTA patterns in the Pacific and Atlantic gives results that are similar to the sum of individual effects, with the stronger Pacific SSTAs exerting more influence despite the model's sensitivity to Atlantic conditions. Dry dynamical experiments with fixed basic states and heating perturbations confirm that interactive moist thermodynamics is crucial for accurately representing continental rainfall responses, even over short timescales. These results are generally promising for applications in operational seasonal forecasting, and this is reported in the companion paper, part 2.
Serum Exosome SERS Assay Based on TiN‐Ag@Ag Sol Composite Substrate and Its Application in the Diagnosis of Gastric Cancer
Authors: Wang Huan , Wu Zhengang , Wei Yingna , Chen Ying , An Xiao jie , Li Jingwu , Wang Zhiwu , Liu Yankun , Wei Hengyong
Published: December 2024

Gastric cancer (GC) is a highly lethal malignancy, seriously threatening people's physical health. Accurate screening of gastric cancer could improve the survival rate of patients. Therefore, exploring noninvasive and efficient cancer screening methods for gastric cancer is of great significance. In the past few years, exosomes have received much attention for their potential in disease diagnosis and treatment. Here, the aim of this study was to explore the detection of serum exosomes via surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) technique based on TiN‐Ag@Ag sol composite substrate, and its potential application in gastric cancer diagnosis is evaluated. Exosomes were extracted from the serum of 31 GC patients and 31 healthy controls (HC) using an exosome kit. This study used various machine learning algorithms such as principal component analysis linear discriminant analysis (PCA‐LDA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA), support vector machine (SVM), and k‐nearest neighbor (KNN) algorithm to analyze SERS spectra, in order to distinguish between HC and GC. The results show that the k‐nearest neighbor algorithm performs the best in HC and GC classification. These results indicate that the combination of SERS and machine learning methods provides a new technological approach for gastric cancer screening. This study offers a new proposal for the universal applicability of analysis and identification with SERS of serum exosomes samples in clinical diagnosis.