bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dally is not essential for Dpp spreading or internalization but for Dpp stability by antagonizing Tkv-mediated Dpp internalization
Authors: Simon Niklas , Safyan Abu , Pyrowolakis George , Matsuda Shinya
Published: December 2023

Dpp/BMP acts as a morphogen to provide positional information in the Drosophila wing disc. Key cell-surface molecules to control Dpp morphogen gradient and signaling are heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs). In the wing discs, two HSPGs, the glypicans Division abnormally delayed (Dally) and Dally-like (Dlp) have been suggested to act redundantly to control these processes through direct interaction of their heparan sulfate (HS) chains with Dpp. Based on this assumption, a number of models on how glypicans control Dpp gradient formation and signaling have been proposed, including facilitating or hindering Dpp spreading, stabilizing Dpp on the cell surface, or recycling Dpp. However, how distinct HSPGs act remains largely unknown. Here we generate genome-engineering platforms for the two HSPGs and find that only Dally is critical for Dpp gradient formation and signaling through interaction of its core protein with Dpp. Nevertheless, we find that this interaction is not sufficient, and that the HS chains of Dally are essential for Dpp gradient formation and signaling largely without interacting with Dpp. We provide evidence that the HS chains of Dally are not essential for spreading or recycling of Dpp but for stabilizing Dpp on the cell surface by antagonizing Dpp internalization through Tkv. These results provide new insights into how distinct HSPGs control morphogen gradient formation and signaling during development.
osl-dynamics: A toolbox for modelling fast dynamic brain activity
Authors: Gohil C. , Huang R. , Roberts E. , van Es M.W.J. , Quinn A.J. , Vidaurre D. , Woolrich M.W.
Published: December 2023

Neural activity contains rich spatio-temporal structure that corresponds to cognition. This includes oscillatory bursting and dynamic activity that span across networks of brain regions, all of which can occur on timescales of a tens of milliseconds. While these processes can be accessed through brain recordings and imaging, modelling them presents methodological challenges due to their fast and transient nature. Furthermore, the exact timing and duration of interesting cognitive events is often a priori unknown. Here we present the OHBA Software Library Dynamics Toolbox (osl-dynamics), a Python-based package that can identify and describe recurrent dynamics in functional neuroimaging data on timescales as fast as tens of milliseconds. At its core are machine learning generative models that are able to adapt to the data and learn the timing, as well as the spatial and spectral characteristics, of brain activity with few assumptions. osl-dynamics incorporates state-of-the-art approaches that can be, and have been, used to elucidate brain dynamics in a wide range of data types, including magneto/electroencephalography, functional magnetic resonance imaging, invasive local field potential recordings and electrocorticography. It also provides novel summary measures of brain dynamics that can be used to inform our understanding of cognition, behaviour and disease. We hope osl-dynamics will further our understanding of brain function, through its ability to enhance the modelling of fast dynamic processes.An open-source toolbox for identifying and describing brain dynamics in neuroimaging data on fast timescales.Includes visualisation and quantification of oscillatory bursting and network dynamics.Provides novel summary measures and group analysis tools of brain dynamics that can be used to inform our understanding of cognition, behaviour and disease.Implemented in Python and makes use of TensorFlow.Includes comprehensive documentation and tutorials.
Homeostatic regulation of REM sleep by the preoptic area of the hypothalamus
Authors: Maurer John , Lin Alex , Jin Xi , Hong Jiso , Sathi Nicholas , Cardis Romain , Osorio-Forero Alejandro , Lüthi Anita , Weber Franz , Chung Shinjae
Published: December 2023

Rapid-eye-movement sleep (REMs) is characterized by activated electroencephalogram (EEG) and muscle atonia, accompanied by vivid dreams. REMs is homeostatically regulated, ensuring that any loss of REMs is compensated by a subsequent increase in its amount. However, the neural mechanisms underlying the homeostatic control of REMs are largely unknown. Here, we show that GABAergic neurons in the preoptic area of the hypothalamus projecting to the tuberomammillary nucleus (POA
GAD2
→TMN neurons) are crucial for the homeostatic regulation of REMs. POA
GAD2
→TMN neurons are most active during REMs, and inhibiting them specifically decreases REMs. REMs restriction leads to an increased number and amplitude of calcium transients in POA
GAD2
→TMN neurons, reflecting the accumulation of REMs pressure. Inhibiting POA
GAD2
→TMN neurons during REMs restriction blocked the subsequent rebound of REMs. Our findings reveal a hypothalamic circuit whose activity mirrors the buildup of homeostatic REMs pressure during restriction and that is required for the ensuing rebound in REMs.
Structural and dynamic changes in P-Rex1 upon activation by PIP3 and inhibition by IP4
Authors: Ravala Sandeep K. , Adame-Garcia Sendi Rafael , Li Sheng , Chen Chun-Liang , Cianfrocco Michael A. , Gutkind J. Silvio , Cash Jennifer N. , Tesmer John J. G.
Published: December 2023

PIP
3
-dependent Rac exchanger 1 (P-Rex1) is abundantly expressed in neutrophils and plays central roles in chemotaxis and cancer metastasis by serving as a guanine nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Rac. The enzyme is synergistically activated by PIP
3
and the heterotrimeric Gβγ subunits, but mechanistic details remain poorly understood. While investigating the regulation of P-Rex1 by PIP
3
, we discovered that Ins(1,3,4,5)P
4
(IP
4
) inhibits P-Rex1 activity and induces large decreases in backbone dynamics in diverse regions of the protein. Cryo-electron microscopy analysis of the P-Rex1·IP
4
complex revealed a conformation wherein the pleckstrin homology (PH) domain occludes the active site of the Dbl homology (DH) domain. This configuration is stabilized by interactions between the first DEP domain (DEP1) and the DH domain and between the PH domain and a 4-helix bundle (4HB) subdomain that extends from the C-terminal domain of P-Rex1. Disruption of the DH–DEP1 interface in a DH/PH-DEP1 fragment enhanced activity and led to a more extended conformation in solution, whereas mutations that constrain the occluded conformation led to decreased GEF activity. Variants of full-length P-Rex1 in which the DH–DEP1 and PH–4HB interfaces were disturbed exhibited enhanced activity during chemokine-induced cell migration, confirming that the observed structure represents the autoinhibited state in living cells. Interactions with PIP
3
-containing liposomes led to disruption of these interfaces and increased dynamics protein-wide. Our results further suggest that inositol phosphates such as IP
4
help to inhibit basal P-Rex1 activity in neutrophils, similar to their inhibitory effects on phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase.
Mapping the molecular motions of 5-HT3 serotonin-gated channel by voltage-clamp fluorometry
Authors: Peverini Laurie , Shi Sophie , Medjebeur Karima , Corringer Pierre-Jean
Published: December 2023

The serotonin-gated ion channel (5-HT3R) mediates excitatory neuronal communication in the gut and the brain. It is the target for setrons, a class of competitive antagonists widely used as antiemetics, and is involved in several neurological diseases. Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) of the 5-HT3R in complex with serotonin or setrons revealed that the protein has access to a wide conformational landscape. However, assigning known high-resolution structures to actual states contributing to the physiological response remains a challenge. In the present study, we used voltage-clamp fluorometry (VCF) to measure simultaneously, for 5-HT3R expressed at a cell membrane, conformational changes by fluorescence and channel opening by electrophysiology. Four positions identified by mutational screening report motions around and outside the serotonin-binding site through incorporation of cysteine-tethered rhodamine dyes with or without a nearby quenching tryptophan. VCF recordings show that the 5-HT3R has access to four families of conformations endowed with distinct fluorescence signatures: ‘resting-like’ without ligand, ‘inhibited-like’ with setrons, ‘pre-active-like’ with partial agonists, and ‘active-like’ (open channel) with partial and strong agonists. Data are remarkably consistent with cryo-EM structures, the fluorescence partners matching respectively apo, setron-bound, 5-HT bound-closed, and 5-HT-bound-open conformations. Data show that strong agonists promote a concerted motion of all fluorescently labeled sensors during activation, while partial agonists, especially when loss-of-function mutations are engineered, stabilize both active and pre-active conformations. In conclusion, VCF, though the monitoring of electrophysiologically silent conformational changes, illuminates allosteric mechanisms contributing to signal transduction and their differential regulation by important classes of physiological and clinical effectors.
Holberg in Context
Authors: Olesen Brian Kjær
Published: December 2023

A prolific and versatile writer, Ludvig Holberg has long been the subject of intense scholarly debate about the identity of his thought and the best way of interpreting his works. What, in particular, has muddied the waters is his use of multifarious textual techniques and conventions, including the use of a broad array of literary genres, a plurality of voices, and diverse literary, historical, and intellectual sources. Engaging, critically, with current contextualist scholarship, this article focuses on what intellectual history can bring to the study of Holberg. Hence, as the article aims to show, thinking in a particular way about the context of Holberg’s works, that is, in conjunction with the languages and personae that inhabit his writings, may help us to better understand the textual conventions and techniques that he employed in his writings, thereby illuminating his identity as a writer.
Binary semantic segmentation for detection of prostate adenocarcinoma using an ensemble with attention and residual U-Net architectures
Authors: Damkliang Kasikrit , Thongsuksai Paramee , Kayasut Kanita , Wongsirichot Thakerng , Jitsuwan Chanwit , Boonpipat Tarathep
Published: December 2023

An accurate determination of the Gleason Score (GS) or Gleason Pattern (GP) is crucial in the diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa) because it is one of the criterion used to guide treatment decisions for prognostic-risk groups. However, the manually designation of GP by a pathologist using a microscope is prone to error and subject to significant inter-observer variability. Deep learning has been used to automatically differentiate GP on digitized slides, aiding pathologists and reducing inter-observer variability, especially in the early GP of cancer. This article presents a binary semantic segmentation for the GP of prostate adenocarcinoma. The segmentation separates benign and malignant tissues, with the malignant class consisting of adenocarcinoma GP3 and GP4 tissues annotated from 50 unique digitized whole slide images (WSIs) of prostate needle core biopsy specimens stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The pyramidal digitized WSIs were extracted into image patches with a size of 256 × 256 pixels at a magnification of 20×. An ensemble approach is proposed combining U-Net-based architectures, including traditional U-Net, attention-based U-Net, and residual attention-based U-Net. This work initially considers a PCa tissue analysis using a combination of attention gate units with residual convolution units. The performance evaluation revealed a mean Intersection-over-Union of 0.79 for the two classes, 0.88 for the benign class, and 0.70 for the malignant class. The proposed method was then used to produce pixel-level segmentation maps of PCa adenocarcinoma tissue slides in the testing set. We developed a screening tool to discriminate between benign and malignant prostate tissue in digitized images of needle biopsy samples using an AI approach. We aimed to identify malignant adenocarcinoma tissues from our own collected, annotated, and organized dataset. Our approach returned the performance which was accepted by the pathologists.
Keep the ball rolling: sexual differences in conglobation behavior of a terrestrial isopod under different degrees of perceived predation pressure
Authors: Zamora-Camacho Francisco Javier
Published: December 2023

Background

Antipredator behaviors are theoretically subjected to a balance by which their display should be minimized when their benefits do not outweigh their costs. Such costs may be not only energetic, but also entail a reduction in the time available for other fitness-enhancing behaviors. However, these behaviors are only beneficial under predation risk. Therefore, antipredator behaviors are predicted to be maximized under strong predation risk. Moreover, predation pressure can differ among individuals according to traits such as sex or body size, if these traits increase vulnerability. Antipredator behaviors are expected to be maximized in individuals whose traits make them more conspicuous to predators. However, how sex, body size and antipredator behaviors interact is not always understood.

Methods

In this work, I tested the interaction between sex, body size and antipredator behavior in the common pill woodlouse (Armadillidium vulgare), which conglobate (i.e., they roll up their bodies almost conforming a sphere that conceals their appendages) in response to predator attacks. Specifically, I tested whether latency to unroll after a standardized mechanical induction was greater in animals exposed to predator chemical cues (toad feces) than in conspecifics exposed to cues of non-predatory animals (rabbits) or no chemical cues whatsoever (distilled water), incorporating sex and body mass in the analyses.

Results

In agreement with my prediction, latency to unroll was greater in individuals exposed to predator chemical cues. In other words, these animals engage in conglobation for longer under perceived predator vicinity. However, this result was only true for males. This sexual dimorphism in antipredator behavior could result from males being under greater predation risk than females, thus having evolved more refined antipredator strategies. Indeed, males of this species are known to actively search for females, which makes them more prone to superficial ground mobility, and likely to being detected by predators. Body size was unrelated to latency to unroll. As a whole, these results support the hypothesis that antipredator behavior is tuned to predator cues in a way consistent with a balance between costs and benefits, which might differ between the sexes.
Effect of Phototherapy on Transcutaneous vs Total Serum Bilirubin Level in Preterm Neonates- A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Soumya M , Chavan Vinod , Manthale Aishwarya , Konded Kavitha S
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Neonatal jaundice is one of the most common problems encountered in the first week after birth. Neonates who develop significant hyperbilirubinemia require phototherapy. Delay in the diagnosis and management of jaundice may lead to neonatal morbidity and mortality. Total Serum Bilirubin (TSB) estimation is considered the gold standard method. However, this invasive procedure causes pain, anxiety, and may lead to infection and iatrogenic anaemia, especially in preterm neonates. Transcutaneous Bilirubin (TcB) estimation, which measures bilirubin through the skin, has been proposed as an alternative screening method for hyperbilirubinemia in term and near-term neonates. Aim: To compare TcB to TSB in preterm neonates of 30-34 6/7 weeks gestational age before, during, and after phototherapy. Materials and Methods: This hospital-based prospective cohort study was conducted at SDMCMS&H, Dharwad, Karnataka, India, between December 2019 and November 2020. A total of 100 preterm neonates between 30 to 34 6/7 weeks of gestation with clinically suspected jaundice were enrolled in the study. TSB was measured in the laboratory using the Diazo Method, while TcB was measured using the Drager jaundice meter JM 103. TcB and TSB were measured and compared in preterm neonates with clinically suspected jaundice before phototherapy, during phototherapy (8 to 12 hours after initiation), and after 12- 18 hours of discontinuation of phototherapy. The collected data was analysed statistically using the mean, standard deviation, dependent t-test, Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and scatter plots. Results: This study enrolled 100 neonates diagnosed with neonatal jaundice, of which 57 were males and 43 were females, resulting in a male-to-female ratio of 1:1.3. Phototherapy was administered to neonates with TSB values, with 79% of the babies between 30-32 weeks and 21% between 32-34 weeks. In the present study, TcB and TSB were compared before, during, and after phototherapy, and the results were analysed, showing statistical significance. The mean TcB levels were 12.05, 9.66, and 7.23 before, during, and after phototherapy, respectively. The mean TSB levels were 11.28, 10.16, and 7.65 before, during, and after phototherapy, respectively. Based on Karl Pearson’s correlation coefficient, a positive correlation was found between TcB and TSB before (r=0.8319, p-value <0.001), during (r=0.6069, p <0.001), and after phototherapy (r=0.8154, p<0.001). Conclusion: TcB values are comparable to TSB values and can be adopted as the standard method to measure bilirubin levels in preterm babies in a clinical setting.
Analysis of Provider Initiated Sickle Cell Disease Screening in Mathare Slums, Nairobi Kenya: A Case of German Doctors, Baraka Health Centre
Authors: Omoto Alloysius Luambo , Mumbo Duncan , Hussein Samira Nassir , Apela Moses , Audi George
Published: December 2023

Sickle cell disease (SCD) results in alteration of both hematological and biochemical parameters of the affected individuals. In Kenya, it is estimated that 4,000 children are born with SCD annually; about 21% of children in Kisumu are born with Sickle cell trait. Study objective was to analyze the screening of SCD using various screening techniques at German Doctors-Baraka Health Center in Mathare, Nairobi. On methodology, purposive sampling and cross sectional study design was employed among patients of all ages with clinical features suggestive of SCD. Data utilization permission was sought from hospital administration. Patients’ January 2019 to May 2023 secondary data was extracted from the hospital’s medical records and analyzed using SPSS version 21, the results were presented in percentages. The study found; comprehensive diagnostic approach of SCD facilitated screening of 2053 subjects. About 512 patients were screened by conventional “sickling test” using sodium metabisulphite, 791 by Sickle Cell Scan and 750 by electrophoresis method. Generally, among 2053 subjects screened, the positivity rate was 48.2%. Sickling test positivity rate was 45.9% and 49.1% positivity for Sickle Cell Scan. Sickle Cell Scan screened 791 (49.1%) subjects, and 39.32% of the 791 had homozygous while 9.73% of the 791 were heterozygous forms. Electrophoresis identified forms of sickle cell; with homozygous and heterozygous representing 38.8% and 10% respectively. It concludes that reliability of Sickle Cell Scan and HB electrophoresis are relatively the same based on almost similar rates in identifying true positive cases and the forms of sickle cell disease. The study recommends that clinicians capacity building on managing SCD is required.
Energy Transfer from the Liquid Crystal Bulk to the Surface Enables Dynamic Topographies via Anisotropic Plasticized Networks
Authors: You Yuxin , Chen Zihua , Nagalingam Gayalaxsa , Broer Dirk J. , Yuan Dong , Aya Satoshi , Liu Danqing
Published: January 2025

Surfaces with dynamic topographies play a pivotal role in modern technology by providing adaptable surface properties in functional coatings. Here, a method for creating dynamic surface topographies with high deformation amplitude using plasticized liquid crystal polymeric networks is proposed. Low molecular weight liquid crystal 5CB is selected as the plasticizer, which is then integrated into the liquid crystal polymer networks (LCNs) and the liquid crystal oligomer networks with longer main chains (LCONs). Upon actuation, the plasticized LCN coating reaches an amplitude of 30%, which is 14% larger than that of the pure LCN system. While the plasticized LCON coating exhibits a significant amplitude of close to 70%, over 37% greater than that of the pure LCONs. The plasticized LCONs exhibit more pronounced deformations than the plasticized LCNs due to their greater flexibility. A physical model explaining the underlying deformation mechanism is further developed. The applications of these dynamic surfaces in optical devices, facilitating transitions between specular reflections and diffuse reflections, or diffraction are demonstrated.
Rational Design and Engineering of Conducting Polymers for Chemical Enhancement in Raman Scattering
Authors: Zhang Huanhuan , Dong Jun‐Yu , Tang Xuke , Kishimoto Naoki , Deng Yunjie , Zhang Hongqian , Yu Xingxing , Nakagawa Yuta , Zhang Shi‐Tong , Kagotani Yuji , Adachi Motoyasu , Zhou Yuqi , Kitahama Yasutaka , Marumi Machiko , Kacenauskaite Laura , Pancorbo Pablo Martinez , Shigeta Yasuteru , Iwasaki Atsushi , Ma Yuguang , Xiao Ting‐Hui , Goda Keisuke
Published: January 2025

Raman scattering is characterized by the inherently weak inelastic scattering of photons, influenced by molecular vibrations or rotations. Recent advances have shifted from traditional electromagnetic enhancement methods to chemically enhanced Raman scattering, offering significant advantages. However, these advancements have typically depended on indirect and empirical models. This article introduces a systematic method for the rational design and engineering of chemical enhancement to Raman scattering. This method involves identifying promising Raman enhancers and optimizing their morphology and composition by elucidating their photochemical properties and mapping their charge‐transfer pathways with target molecules using transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS), cyclic voltammetry (CV), and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Employing this method, this work has developed a series of rationally designed Raman enhancers made from conducting polymers (CPs), such as poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT), with optimized morphological traits and compositions. These enhancers significantly improve surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS), achieving a reproducible enhancement factor of up to 106, and boost Raman lasing, with a remarkable 40‐fold increase in energy conversion efficiency.
Recent Progress on Local Field Manipulations of Graphene Photodetectors
Authors: Zhang Xianning , Nie Changbin , Jiang Xilong , Zhu Lei , Wei Xingzhan
Published: January 2025

Graphene, with exceptional carrier mobility and broad‐spectrum light absorption, provides a new platform for photodetection applications, thereby driving the development of next‐generation photodetectors. However, graphene photodetectors suffer from challenges such as low responsivity and high noise. Due to its strong interaction with light and low density of states, the optoelectronic properties of graphene can be easily manipulated by local fields. Manipulation of local fields in graphene photodetectors is a promising strategy to improve detection performance and expand functionality. In this review, the manipulations of local optical fields are introduced, which include the combination of graphene with local photonic structures and the fabrication of graphene nanostructures. Then, the manipulations of local electric field, specifically through the control of the electrostatic field and the built‐in electric field, are discussed. Moreover, the functional graphene optoelectronic devices are introduced, categorized into polarization‐sensitive photodetectors, spectral detectors, bionic devices, and logic devices. Last, challenges and future perspectives are summarized to drive further research and development of graphene photodetectors for advanced optoelectronic applications.
Optimized Growth and Manipulation of Light–Matter Interaction in Stabilized Halide Perovskite Nanowire Array
Authors: Prasad Neena , Leybovich Avigail , Goldreich Achiad , Shalom Hila , Prilusky Jonathan , Puravankara Akshay , Sam Thomas Alen , Bograchev Daniil , Yadgarov Lena
Published: January 2025

Halide perovskite nanowires (HP‐NWs) exhibit fascinating optical properties, making them attractive for advanced technologies. However, instability and lack of an effective synthetic protocol limit their commercialization. To address this, nanoporous anodized aluminum oxide (AAO) metamaterial is used as templates for the growth of CsPbBr3 NW arrays. AAO functions as a growth template and a stabilizing medium. The NW array exhibits strong light‐trapping ability, and the pore geometric features (pore radius‐R and distance between pores‐d) can potentially enhance the light‐matter interactions (LMI). The impact of R and d on LMI within the AAO/CsPbBr3 system using theoretical finite difference time domain (FDTD) simulations is demonstrated for the first time. Optimal LMI is observed with R = d = 25 nm and 50 nm. Ligand‐free synthesis of CsPbBr3 NW arrays via spin‐coating, drop‐casting, and inverse temperature crystallization (ITC) is reported. While spin‐coating and drop‐casting results in poor pore filling, the modified ITC method achieves >90% pore filling with significant NW lengths. These findings highlight the potential of AAO templates for protecting CsPbBr3 and addressing synthetic challenges in HPs and other semiconductor NW arrays. This study provides key insights for LMI in HPs and advances NW array‐based optical devices and renewable energy applications.
Efficient Shortwave Infrared Photodetection Through Polymer:Cocrystal Blend Film‐Based Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Cui Jingyu , Li Jing , Sun Chunlong , Gu Zanyang , Dai Guohao , Tian Yuan , Li Jikun , Feng Jintao , Ye Long , Yi Yuanping , Zhu Weigang
Published: January 2025

Short‐wave infrared (SWIR) organic photodetectors (OPDs) offer flexibility, cost‐effectiveness, and tunable properties that differentiate them from commercially inorganic SWIR photodetectors. These detectors mainly rely on materials possessing SWIR absorption properties. However, the synthesis of new organic semiconductor materials with narrow band gaps remains a significant challenge. Here an effective and general strategy of blending the TMBP‐F4TCNQ (TMF4) cocrystal with the PDVT‐10 polymer as SWIR‐absorbing materials for photoelectronic detection is reported. As prepared field‐effect transistor (FET) device with Si/SiO2/PDVT‐10:TMF4 (PTF)/Au configuration presents hole mobility up to 1.70 cm2 V−1 s−1 and SWIR spectral response range of 1000–1700 nm. Surprisingly, remarkable photoresponsivity (R, 801 A W−1) and detectivity (D*, 1.6 × 1013 Jones) are obtained at 1060 nm. The PTF film exhibits high surface potential of 180 mV, and ultrafast hole transfer within 150 fs when exposed to 1350 nm pump laser. The existence of mobile electrons in TMF4 and the photogeneration of additional carriers upon illumination may create a (photo)doping effect that allows higher hole concentration in PDVT‐10. Significantly, this strategy enhances SWIR detection, therefore showing great prospects in the field of SWIR imaging.
Operando Tracking of Resistance, Thickness, and Mass of Ti3C2Tx MXene in Water‐in‐Salt Electrolyte
Authors: Perju Audrey , Zhang Danzhen , Wang Ruocun John , Taberna Pierre‐Louis , Gogotsi Yury , Simon Patrice
Published: January 2025

MXenes are among the fastest‐growing families of 2D materials, promising for high‐rate, high‐energy energy storage applications due to their high electronic and ionic conductivity, large surface area, and reversible surface redox ability. The Ti3C2Tx MXene shows a capacitive charge storage mechanism in diluted aqueous LiCl electrolyte while achieving abnormal redox‐like features in the water‐in‐salt LiCl electrolyte. Herein, various operando techniques are used to investigate changes in resistance, mass, and electrode thickness of Ti3C2Tx during cycling in salt‐in‐water and water‐in‐salt LiCl electrolytes. Significant resistance variations due to interlayer space changes are recorded in the water‐in‐salt LiCl electrolyte. In both electrolytes, conductivity variations attributed to charge carrier density changes or varied inter‐sheet electron hopping barriers are detected in the capacitive areas, where no thickness variations are observed. Overall, combining those operando techniques enhances the understanding of charge storage mechanisms and facilitates the development of MXene‐based energy storage devices.
Association of Sleep Traits With Venous Thromboembolism: Prospective Cohort and Mendelian Randomization Studies
Authors: Li Yuqian , Sun Feifei , Ji Chao , Yang Honghao , Ma Zheng , Zhao Yuhong , Zhao Zhiying , Xia Yang
Published: January 2025

Previous research indicates an association between sleep traits and venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk, though causal relationships remain uncertain. This study evaluated combined and independent associations between sleep traits and VTE risk using UK Biobank data and explored the causal associations between sleep traits and VTE through two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the associations between the healthy sleep score, as well as individual sleep traits (including sleep duration, insomnia, daytime sleepiness, snoring, and chronotype), and VTE risk were calculated using Cox proportional hazards regression models. Additionally, the two‐sample MR analyses used the inverse‐variance weighted method to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% CIs for causal associations. In the cohort analysis, 314 077 VTE–free participants were followed for a median of 12.3 years, during which 7176 VTE cases occurred. In comparison to those with a sleep score of 0–1, participants with a score of 5 were associated with a 30% lower risk of VTE (HR: 0.70; 95% CI: 0.61–0.80). A U‐shaped association was noted between sleep duration and VTE risk. Both short (≤ 6 h) and long (≥ 9 h) sleep durations increased VTE risk. Excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring, and evening chronotype also elevated VTE risk. MR analyses supported a causal relationship for short sleep duration (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.04–1.47) with VTE risk, while other sleep traits showed no causal association. These findings underscore the importance of optimal sleep in reducing VTE risk.
A New Unc45a 5'utr Variant In Patients With Aagenaes Syndrome
Authors: Tan Turkan Turkut , Dogan Yusuf Can , Yilmaz Zehra Burcu , Avci Durmusalioglu Enise , Oguz Ezgi , Ayyildiz Durdugul Emecen , Isik Esra , Aydogdu Sema , Cogulu Ozgur , Atik Tahir
Published: January 2025

Aagenaes syndrome, also known as lymphoedema cholestasis syndrome 1 (LCS1), is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neonatal cholestasis and chronic lymphedema, primarily affecting the lower extremities. The genetic basis for this syndrome was recently linked to a variant in the 5′‐untranslated region (5’‐UTR) of the UNC45A gene, located on chromosome 15q. This study aimed to identify the genetic mutations associated with Aagenaes syndrome in two siblings and to explore their clinical implications. Whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was conducted on two siblings with neonatal cholestasis and lymphedema. WES identified a single base pair change in the 5′‐untranslated region (5’‐UTR) of the UNC45A gene (c.‐88G>A) in both siblings. Additionally, both were heterozygous for an exonic loss‐of‐function variant (c.1591C>T; p.Arg531Ter) in UNC45A. Clinically, both siblings presented with neonatal cholestasis and lymphedema; however, one sibling developed severe liver failure, requiring a liver transplant. Despite carrying the same variants, the clinical outcomes differed between the two patients. The identification of a novel 5’‐UTR variant (c.‐88G>A), along with an exonic variant in UNC45A, expands the genetic and clinical understanding of Aagenaes syndrome. This study confirms the involvement of the 5’‐UTR region of UNC45A in the disease pathogenesis, while demonstrating that Aagenaes syndrome is not exclusively associated with the previously reported c.‐98G>T variant found in Norwegian cases. These findings underscore the importance of genetic screening for accurate diagnosis and management of Aagenaes syndrome and provide new insights into the critical regulatory role of the 5’‐UTR in disease development. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying phenotypic variability in this rare disorder. Evaluation of mRNA and protein levels would have been valuable to better understand the functional effects of these variants; however, due to current resource constraints, such studies could not be conducted.
Dual sensory impairment: Global prevalence, future projections, and its association with cognitive decline
Authors: Yeo Brian Sheng Yep , Gao Esther Yanxin , Tan Benjamin Kye Jyn , Ong Benedict Ding Chao , Cho Ryan Wei Yang , Lim Chee Yit , Man Ryan Eyn Kidd , Fenwick Eva K. , Gupta Preeti , Chen Christopher Li‐Hsian , Chew Samuel Teong Huang , Teo Neville Wei Yang , Toh Song Tar , Ng Jia Hui , Tan Vanessa Yee Jueen , Lamoureux Ecosse L.
Published: January 2025

There is rising public health concern surrounding dual sensory impairment (DSI), or comorbid hearing and vision impairments. Its global prevalence and the magnitude of its association with cognitive decline (CD) is unclear. Three databases were searched for epidemiological studies examining DSI prevalence or its association with CD. Independent reviewers selected studies, extracted data, and evaluated bias. Random‐effects meta‐analyses were performed. Projections were estimated using United Nations data. The population attributable fraction of DSI‐associated CD was calculated. Among 43 studies with 5,246,796 participants, clinically assessed DSI prevalence was 5.50% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.88%–10.26%), with regional/ethnic/age variations. DSI prevalence is projected to increase by 27.2% from 2025 to 2050. Approximately 59.83% (95%CI = 41.03–76.12) of DSI patients had cognitive impairment. Baseline DSI was associated with incident CD (odds ratio [OR] = 1.72, 95%CI = 1.37–2.15). Globally, 3.81% (95%CI = 1.05–10.55) of incident CD may be attributed to DSI. DSI is globally prevalent, growing, and associated with CD, highlighting the need for better health policy and resource allocation.

Highlights

The global prevalence of DSI is 5.50%, with geographical, ethnical and age variations.

The prevalence of DSI rises with age and is projected to increase by 27.2% by 2050.

Approximately 60% of individuals with DSI may have measurable cognitive impairment.

DSI was associated with a 72% greater longitudinal risk of incident CD.

Globally, 3.81% of CD cases may be attributable to DSI.
Micromachining of Intricate Microchannels on the Polycarbonate Using Ultrafast Laser Ablation
Authors: Basha D. Nazeer , Rakesh Chintha , Samuel G. L. , Bathe Ravi
Published: January 2025

Ultrafast laser processing enables the fabrication of microscale structures in diverse materials without inducing heat‐affected zones. The ablation and micromachining properties of polycarbonate were investigated using a femtosecond‐pulsed laser with an 800 nm wavelength and a 100 fs pulse duration. Ablation threshold fluence was determined to be 0.0112 J/cm2. Response Surface Methodology based on the Box–Behnken design was applied for the optimization of the conditions of the micromachining process with respect to laser pulse energy, scanning speed, and line spacing. An increased rate of material removal by a higher laser power of 800 mW decreased in the case of the lower power of 100 mW. Line spacing became very critical because while varying from 5 to 15 μm, it resulted in a different machining pattern. An increased scanning speed decreased the machined depth. The highest material removal rate achieved is reported as 4.9 × 106 μm3/s under optimum conditions. Intricate microchannels with accurate dimensions fabricated in a polycarbonate disk have been ensured to have no or very minimal thermal damage. The results obtained have significant relevance to present useful information on precision micromachining of polycarbonate with huge potential for developing polymer‐based microdevices.
Inhibition of Wax Crystallization and Asphaltene Deposition by Star Poly(Octadecyl Acrylate‐Styrene) (POA‐St) for African Crude Oil
Authors: Xi Zuojia , Zhang Xubiao , Yang Chaohe , Xu Jun
Published: January 2025

In the global energy landscape, the development of desert oil in Africa has increased the diversity of world oil supply and helped maintain the balance of the global energy market. However, wax precipitation and asphaltene deposition cause numerous challenges during the recovery and pipeline transportation of African crude oil. Traditional linear polymer additives often have limited wax‐modifying and asphaltene‐dispersing efficiency. In this work, linear poly(octadecyl acrylate‐styrene) (POA‐St) and a series of star POA‐St copolymers with different arm numbers (3, 4, and 6) were synthesized through reversibly additive fragment chain transfer polymerization. The effects of the linear and star POA‐St on the wax precipitating properties, pour point, rheology, and asphaltene stability of African waxy crude oil were studied in detail. The star POA‐St copolymers show superior performance compared with linear polymers in inhibiting wax crystal formation, improving crude oil rheology, and stabilizing asphaltene. Increasing the arm number of star POA‐St greatly improves its performance. Star POA‐St‐6 reduces the wax appearance temperature of the crude oil from 53.7°C to 51.1°C. At 20°C, the addition of the star POA‐St‐6 reduces the pour point of crude oil from 30°C to 21°C, and the viscosity and yield stress decrease by 74% and 55.2%, respectively. In addition, star POA‐St‐6 increases the initial precipitation points of asphaltene from 44.3% to 57.1%, showing a splendid asphaltene inhibiting efficiency. We speculate that the star POA‐St stabilizes asphaltene aggregates among its arms and changes the wax crystal morphology through co‐crystallization and nucleation effects, thereby exhibiting good performance. These findings provide prospective insights and avenues for the structural optimization and innovation of a new type of pour point depressant.
Effect of Boron Modification on Characteristics of Phenolic Resin and Its Char
Authors: Abraham Anu Anna , Kampalath Veettil Aneesh , Golla Rama Rao , Subramaniam Seetharaman , Adusumalli Ramesh
Published: January 2025

Resole type Phenol‐formaldehyde resins are known for their thermal stability and char yield. The thermal and ablative performance of phenolic resins can be further improved by incorporating inorganic elements like boron to the phenolic resin structure. These modifications can also affect the structure and properties of char which is formed during ablation. This paper aims at comparing the properties of phenolic resin and its char, with and without boron modification. Differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), Rheometer was used to study the cure behavior of the liquid resins. Using Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), the change in thermal stability and char yield with change in cure temperature was studied for the modified resin. TGA revealed a better thermal stability, with increase in temperature of maximum degradation rate by 62°C and increase in char yield from 55% to 70% in case of boron modified phenolic resins. The rheometer data shows that phenolic resin gelation takes place after 140°C, whereas for modified resins, gelation takes place after 200°C indicating a higher reaction temperature for the modified resin. The char obtained by pyrolysis of the resins at 800°C was characterized using FTIR, X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and X‐Ray diffraction (XRD). From thermal stability and char yield studies, it can be concluded that boron modified resin system is superior to the phenolic resin making it a potential candidate for high temperature and ablative applications.
Effect of Phosphorus‐Containing Silane Coupling Agents Modified Ammonium Polyphosphate on the Flame Retardancy and Mechanical Properties of Epoxy Resin
Authors: Wang Song , Ma Rumeng
Published: January 2025

Two phosphorus‐containing silane coupling agents (PSCAs), KH550‐P and KH560‐P, are successfully prepared by reacting 10‐hydroxy‐9,10‐dihydro‐9‐oxa‐10‐phosphorus‐10‐oxide (DOPOOH) with (3‐aminopropyl) triethoxysilane (KH550) and 3‐glycidyloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (KH560), respectively. These two PSCAs are used as the surface modification agents of ammonium polyphosphate (APP). The flame retardancy and mechanical properties of epoxy resin (EP) with PSCA‐modified APP are investigated. When the weight ratio of APP to PSCAs is 18:2 and the addition amount of PSCA‐modified APPs, APP‐KH550‐P18:2 and APP‐KH560‐P18:2, in EP reaches 8%, the resulting flame‐retardant EP composite materials, EP/APP‐KH550‐P18:2 and EP/APP‐KH560‐P18:2, exhibit good flame retardancy of a V‐0 rating in the vertical combustion test (UL‐94). The limiting oxygen index values of both EP/APP‐KH550‐P18:2 and EP/APP‐KH560‐P18:2 are higher than 30%. The peak heat release rates of EP/APP‐KH550‐P18:2 and EP/APP‐KH560‐P18:2 decrease by 13.8% and 28.5%, respectively, compared to EP containing 8% APP (EP/APP). Both KH550‐P and KH560‐P demonstrate similar performance in enhancing the flame retardancy of APP. When APP‐KH550‐P18:2 is added to EP, the mechanical properties of EP/APP‐KH550‐P18:2 are found to be similar to those of EP/APP. Conversely, the tensile strength and impact strength of EP/APP‐KH560‐P18:2 increase by 23.8% and 74.3%, respectively, compared to EP/APP. KH560‐P shows significantly better performance in the flame‐retardant EP.
The aging human larynx, presbyphonia, and voice quality: The evolutionary and social effects on listeners
Authors: Laitman Benjamin M. , Laitman Jeffrey T.
Published: January 2025

The human voice is a major signal transmission modality for our species. Accordingly, perception of its quality serves as an intraspecific window into the status of an individual's health, robusticity, and even stature in the group. Diminished quality—as may occur in aging or certain diseases—is a major feature in the lessening of an individual's communication modality. Here, we review the underlying anatomy and function that comprise the voice producing elements—the vocal tract sensu lato—from the lungs through the larynx and supralaryngeal modifying elements. Aspects of the aging larynx and constituent elements such as the vocal folds (“true vocal cords”) and intrinsic laryngeal joints, are discussed within the context of how their aging or disease degradation may affect an individual's speech and concomitant perception and interpretation by listeners. The aging voice is considered within the context of the overall effects of aging sensory systems in both humans and other mammals.
Serum Type I Interferon Score predicts clinically meaningful disease progression in limited cutaneous Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Di Donato Stefano , Ross Rebecca , Karanth Ranjitha , Kakkar Vishal , De Lorenzis Enrico , Bissell Lesley‐Anne , Clark Kristina , Yee Philip , Denton Christopher P. , Del Galdo Francesco
Published: January 2025

Objective

To assess the value of serum Type I Interferon (IFN) score in predicting clinically meaningful progression in limited cutaneous systemic sclerosis (lcSSc) using a novel composite endpoint adopted from the MINIMISE clinical trial.

Methods

A retrospective, longitudinal lcSSc cohort was identified within a national, multicentre observational cohort. The MINIMISE combined Morbi‐mortality endpoint was used as clinical outcome for a time to clinical worsening (TTCW) design. IFN score was calculated from the serum concentration of CCL2, CCL8, CCL19, CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 on patients and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (HC). “High” IFN score was defined as two standard deviations above HC mean. The association of the IFN score with TTCW was assessed using Cox Proportional Hazard regressions and Kaplan‐Meier curves. The potential improvement in risk stratification when combining IFN score with lcSSc clinical features was explored.

Results

A total of 149 patients were included in the analysis, 67 “High” IFN and 82 “Low”. “High” IFN patients presented a shorter TTCW (74.7 months [95% C.I. 70.1‐79.3] vs 110.6 [95% C.I. 107.2‐114.0], p<0.001) and met the endpoint in higher proportion compared to “Low” IFN (55% vs 12%, p<0.001). “High” IFN score conferred 5.5 (95% C.I. 2.7‐11.3) Hazard Ratio (HR) for TTCW compared to “Low” IFN and IFN score as a continuous variable conferred 2.38 (95% C.I. 1.4‐4.0) HR for TTCW independently of clinical variables. Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension, Interstitial Lung Disease, Digital Ulcers, and modified Rodnan Skin Score were associated to TTCW. An exploratory analysis showed that these clinical features improve risk stratification over time in combination with IFN score.

Conclusion

Serum assessment of Type I IFN activity is a valuable predictor of clinically meaningful outcomes in lcSSc. The combination of serum IFN score with sentinel clinical features can improve stratification strategies in clinical trials and patient management.

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Evolving stories of self: Informational transitions and tattoos
Authors: Krtalić Maja , Campbell‐Meier Jennifer , Solhjoo Niloofar
Published: January 2025

Throughout history, tattoos have served as a means of expressing identity, culture, and preserving information. Beyond their visual appeal, tattoos continue to be used in the modern world as a way for individuals to showcase their identity, honor and remember others, and mark significant events. In this paper, we explore the connection between tattoos and life transitions from an informational perspective. We view tattoos and the act of tattooing as a complex process that involves cognitive, physical, and emotional interactions with information on both an individual and societal level. The information experience approach aligns with this holistic and multifaceted nature of interacting with information, and we have employed this approach to structure our study. The study is based on interviews with 23 participants in Aotearoa New Zealand and highlights how tattoos serve as forms of information and mediums for comprehending and navigating life transitions. The findings reveal the role of tattoos as initiators, enablers, and resolvers of transitions, and explain how transition is experienced through tattoos. This study contributes to the understanding of tattoos as informational transitions and provides insights into their role in addressing the dissonance experienced in life transitions.