bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic analysis of clinical samples with serologic ABO blood grouping discrepancies: identification of 15 novel A and B subgroup alleles
Authors: Olsson Martin L. , Irshaid Nidal M. , Hosseini-Maaf Bahram , Hellberg Åsa , Moulds Marilyn K. , Sareneva Hannele , Chester M. Alan
Published: July 2002

Since the cloning in 1990 of complementary DNA corresponding to messenger RNA transcribed at the blood group ABO locus, polymorphisms and phenotype-genotype correlations have been reported by several investigators. Exons 6 and 7, constituting 77% of the gene, have been analyzed previously in samples with variant phenotypes but for many subgroups the molecular basis remains unknown. This study analyzed 324 blood samples involved in ABO grouping discrepancies and determined their ABO genotype. Samples from individuals found to have known subgroup alleles (n = 53), acquired ABO phenotypes associated with different medical conditions (n = 65), probable chimerism (n = 3), and common red blood cell phenotypes (n = 109) were evaluated by ABO genotype screening only. Other samples (n = 94) from apparently healthy donors with weak expression of A or B antigens were considered potential subgroup samples without known molecular background. The full coding region (exons 1-7) and 2 proposed regulatory regions of the ABO gene were sequenced in selected A (n = 22) or B (n = 12) subgroup samples. Fifteen novelABO subgroup alleles were identified, 2 of which are the first examples of mutations outside exon 7 associated with weak subgroups. Each allele was characterized by a missense or nonsense mutation for which screening by allele-specific primer polymerase chain reaction was performed. The novel mutations were encountered in 28 of the remaining 60 A and B subgroup samples but not among normal donors. As a result of this study, the number of definable alleles associated with weak ABO subgroups has increased from the 14 previously published to 29.
Histone deacetylase 3 associates with and represses the transcription factor GATA-2
Authors: Ozawa Yukiyasu , Towatari Masayuki , Tsuzuki Shinobu , Hayakawa Fumihiko , Maeda Takahiro , Miyata Yasuhiko , Tanimoto Mitsune , Saito Hidehiko
Published: July 2002

The zinc finger transcription factor GATA-2 plays a critical role in the survival and proliferation of hematopoietic stem cells. This study examined the interaction of GATA-2 with histone deacetylases (HDACs) to define the involvement of HDACs in the regulation of GATA-2 function. GATA-2 directly associates with HDAC3 but not with HDAC1. Consistent with this, HDAC3 suppressed the transcriptional potential of GATA-2, whereas HDAC1 did not affect GATA-2–dependent transcription. Results further demonstrated that GATA-2 and HDAC3 colocalized in the nucleus. These results identify GATA-2 as a nuclear target for HDAC3-mediated repression. Furthermore, GATA-2 also directly associated with HDAC5 but not with other class II HDACs examined, that is, HDAC4 and HDAC6. This is the first demonstration that a tissue-specific transcription factor directly and selectively interacts with HDAC3 and HDAC5 among HDAC family members.
Stromal cell–derived factor 1/CXCR4 signaling is critical for early human T-cell development
Authors: Hernández-López Carmen , Varas Alberto , Sacedón Rosa , Jiménez Eva , Muñoz Juan José , Zapata Agustı́n G. , Vicente Angeles
Published: July 2002

The present study investigated the potential role of stromal cell–derived factor 1 (SDF-1) in human intrathymic T-cell differentiation. Results show that SDF-1 is produced by human thymic epithelial cells from the subcapsular and medullary areas, and its receptor, CXCR4, is up-regulated on CD34+ precursor cells committed to the T-cell lineage. Chimeric human-mouse fetal thymus organ culture (FTOC) seeded with purified CD34+thymic progenitors and treated with neutralizing antibodies against SDF-1 or CXCR4 showed a significant reduction of the number of human thymocytes and an arrested thymocyte differentiation in the transition between CD34+ precursor cells and CD4+ immature thymocytes. SDF-1–treated FTOC showed an increase of human thymocyte numbers, mainly affecting the most immature subpopulations. Moreover, these results suggest that CXCR4/SDF-1 signaling is not critical for the CD34+ cell precursor recruitment to the thymus. On the other hand, SDF-1 significantly increased the viability of CD34+ T-cell precursors modulating the expression ofBCL-2 and BAX genes, and stimulated the proliferation of CD34+ thymic precursor cells, particularly in synergy with interleukin 7 (IL-7), but not with other cytokines, such as stem cell factor or flt3-ligand. Accordingly, only IL-7 was able to up-regulate CXCR4 expression on CD34+ thymic progenitors. In addition, deprivation of SDF-1 partially inhibited human thymocyte expansion induced by IL-7 in human-mouse FTOC. This study indicates that SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling is required for the survival, expansion, and subsequent differentiation of human early thymocytes and identifies a new mechanism by which IL-7 mediates its effects on human thymopoiesis.
Molecular dissection of the signaling and costimulatory functions of CD150 (SLAM): CD150/SAP binding and CD150-mediated costimulation
Authors: Howie Duncan , Simarro Marı́a , Sayos Joan , Guirado Maria , Sancho Jaime , Terhorst Cox
Published: July 2002

CD150 signaling lymphocytic activation molecule (SLAM), a T/B/dendritic cell surface glycoprotein, is a costimulatory receptor involved in T-cell activation and is also a receptor for measles virus. CD150-induced signal transduction is controlled bySAP/SH2D1A, the gene that is aberrant in X-linked lymphoproliferative disease and familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. This report shows that CD150 colocalizes with the T-cell receptor (TCR) following CD3 triggering in human peripheral blood T cells and is rapidly and reversibly tyrosine phosphorylated on TCR cross-linking. The Src-like kinases Lck and Fyn phosphorylate tyrosine residues in the cytoplasmic tail of CD150. The results demonstrate that the SAP protein has 2 modes of binding to CD150. Binding to the motif Thr-Ile-Tyr281Ala-Gln-Val occurs in a phosphotyrosine-independent fashion and to the motif Thr-Val-Tyr327Ala-Ser-Val in a phosphotyrosine-dependent manner. Within both SAP binding motifs the threonine residue at position −2 to tyrosine is essential to stabilize the interaction irrespective of tyrosine phosphorylation, a feature unique to the SAP SH2 domain. A leucine residue, Leu278, further stabilizes nonphospho binding of SAP to Tyr281 of CD150. SAP blocking of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP-2 occurs primarily on Tyr281 of CD150 because SHP-2 requires both Tyr281 and Tyr327 for binding to CD150, and SAP binds to nonphosphorylated Tyr281. CD150 exhibits lateral mobility, segregating into intercellular contacts. The lateral mobility and homophilic clustering of CD150 between neighboring cells is not dependent on SAP/CD150 interaction.
Calpain is a signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 3 and STAT5 protease
Authors: Oda Atsushi , Wakao Hiroshi , Fujita Hiroyoshi
Published: July 2002

Truncation of signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 5 at the carboxy-terminal domain, either by genetic engineering or by proteolytic cleavage, results in generation of dominant-negative forms. A nuclear serine protease expressed in the myeloid precursor cells is known to mediate this cleavage, but other proteases responsible for this reaction were unknown. We found that calpain, a ubiquitously expressed cysteine protease, also trims STAT5 in vivo and in vitro, within the carboxy-terminal domain. Nuclear element is not necessary for calpain-mediated STAT5 cleavage, since this process occurs in platelets. We also found that STAT3 is a substrate for calpain in vivo and in vitro, indicating that calpain-mediated cleavage is a common feature of STAT3 and STAT5. Thus, our study reveals a novel pathway for posttranslational modification of STAT3 and STAT5.
Controlling Water for Enhanced Homogeneities in Perovskite Solar Cells with Remarkable Reproducibility
Authors: Wang Chenyue , He Bingchen , Hui Wei , Su Zhenhuang , Chen Li , Du Weizhi , Zhang Liujiang , Zhang Junhan , Fu Meirong , Wang Hao , Sun Bo , Wen Wen , Wang Sisheng , Lou Liyu , Hou Chen , Zheng Guanhaojie , Song Lin , Chen Yonghua , Gao Xingyu
Published: July 2024

Two‐step sequential deposition of perovskite films is proven efficient and compatible with large‐scale production. Nevertheless, its critically regulated environmental humidity often remains a burden, hindering its applications in reproducible fabrication of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Herein, by introducing a water ethyl acetate (W‐EA) solution treatment before annealing, improved perovskite crystallinity and homogeneity in FA0.95‐xMAxCs0.05PbI3 films without additional composition regulation is achieved. In situ Grazing‐incidence Wide‐angle X‐ray Scattering experiments highlighted accelerated crystallization kinetics in W‐EA‐treated films, leading to high‐quality perovskite formation. PSCs based on this method reached an optimal power conversion efficiency of 25.01% and demonstrated enhanced moisture resistance, retaining 88% efficiency after 1000 h in ambient conditions. This W‐EA treatment simplifies the fabrication process, greatly reducing the need for controlled humidity, and offers insights into the role of water in perovskite film crystallization, with significant implications to produce high‐performance PSCs.
Pushing Trap‐Controlled Persistent Luminescence Materials toward Multi‐Responsive Smart Platforms: Recent Advances, Mechanism, and Frontier Applications
Authors: Du Jiaren , Wang Xiaomeng , Sun Shan , Wu Yongjian , Jiang Kai , Li Si , Lin Hengwei
Published: July 2024

Smart stimuli‐responsive persistent luminescence materials, combining the various advantages and frontier applications prospects, have gained booming progress in recent years. The trap‐controlled property and energy storage capability to respond to external multi‐stimulations through diverse luminescence pathways make them attractive in emerging multi‐responsive smart platforms. This review aims at the recent advances in trap‐controlled luminescence materials for advanced multi‐stimuli‐responsive smart platforms. The design principles, luminescence mechanisms, and representative stimulations, i.e., thermo‐, photo‐, mechano‐, and X‐rays responsiveness, are comprehensively summarized. Various emerging multi‐responsive hybrid systems containing trap‐controlled luminescence materials are highlighted. Specifically, temperature dependent trapping and de‐trapping performance is discussed, from extreme‐low temperature to ultra‐high temperature conditions. Emerging applications and future perspectives are briefly presented. It is hoped that this review would provide new insights and guidelines for the rational design and performance manipulation of multi‐responsive materials for advanced smart platforms.
Far‐Red Aggregation‐Induced Emission Hydrogel‐Reinforced Tissue Clearing for 3D Vasculature Imaging of Whole Lung and Whole Tumor
Authors: Gong Xiao‐Ting , Zhuang Jiahao , Chong Kok Chan , Xu Qun , Ling Xia , Cao Lei , Wu Min , Yang Jing , Liu Bin
Published: July 2024

Understanding the vascular formation and distribution in metastatic lung tumors is a significant challenge due to autofluorescence, antibody/dye diffusion in dense tumor, and fluorophore stability when exposed to solvent‐based clearing agents. Here, an approach is presented that redefines 3D vasculature imaging within metastatic tumor, peritumoral lung tissue, and normal lung. Specifically, a far‐red aggregation‐induced emission nanoparticle with surface amino groups (termed as TSCN nanoparticle, TSCNNP) is designed for in situ formation of hydrogel (TSCNNP@Gel) inside vasculatures to provide structural support and enhance the fluorescence in solvent‐based tissue clearing method. Using this TSCNNP@Gel‐reinforced tissue clearing imaging approach, the critical challenges are successfully overcome and comprehensive visualization of the whole pulmonary vasculature up to 2 µm resolution is enabled, including its detailed examination in metastatic tumors. Importantly, features of tumor‐associated vasculature in 3D panoramic views are unveiled, providing the potential to determine tumor stages, predict tumor progression, and facilitate the histopathological diagnosis of various tumor types.
Volume‐Metallization 3D‐Printed Polymer Composites
Authors: Yu Dehai , Chi Guidong , Mao Xu , Li Maolin , Wang Zhonghao , Xing Chunxiao , Hu Daiwei , Zhou Quan , Li Zhen , Li Chunwei , Deng Zhongshan , Chen Du , Song Zhenghe , He Zhizhu
Published: July 2024

3D printing polymer or metal can achieve complicated structures while lacking multifunctional performance. Combined printing of polymer and metal is desirable and challenging due to their insurmountable mismatch in melting‐point temperatures. Here, a novel volume‐metallization 3D‐printed polymer composite (VMPC) with bicontinuous phases for enabling coupled structure and function, which are prepared by infilling low‐melting‐point metal (LM) to controllable porous configuration is reported. Based on vacuum‐assisted low‐pressure conditions, LM is guided by atmospheric pressure action and overcomes surface tension to spread along the printed polymer pore channel, enabling the complete filling saturation of porous structures for enhanced tensile strength (up to 35.41 MPa), thermal (up to 25.29 Wm−1K−1) and electrical (>106 S m−1) conductivities. The designed 3D‐printed microstructure‐oriented can achieve synergistic anisotropy in mechanics (1.67), thermal (27.2), and electrical (>1012) conductivities. VMPC multifunction is demonstrated, including customized 3D electronics with elevated strength, electromagnetic wave‐guided transport and signal amplification, heat dissipation device for chip temperature control, and storage components for thermoelectric generator energy conversion with light‐heat‐electricity.
Rational Design of Highly Comprehensive Liquid‐Like Coatings with Enhanced Transparency, Concerted Multi‐Function, and Excellent Durability: A Ternary Cooperative Strategy
Authors: Su Yang , He Junhui
Published: July 2024

Durable repellent surfaces of high transparency find key applications in daily life and industry. Nevertheless, developing anti‐reflective coatings with omni‐repellency, concerted multi‐function, and desirable durability remains a daunting challenge. Here, a highly comprehensive coating is designed based on the combination of structural design and molecular design. The resulting silica hybrid coating not only manifests enhanced transparency and exceptional omniphobicity, but also achieves integration of multi‐function (e.g., anti‐smudge, anti‐icing, and anti‐corrosion). The unprecedented durability of the coating is evidenced by maintaining slipperiness after rigorous treatments, such as 2.5 × 105‐cycle mechanical abrasion with a high loading pressure of 100 kPa, 1000‐cycle adhesion/peeling and soaking in extreme pH solutions, etc. This work provides a design blueprint for manufacturing versatile and durable coatings for wide‐ranging applications.
Achieving Almost 100% Selectivity in Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction to Methane via In‐Situ Atmosphere Regulation Strategy
Authors: Zhang Wanyi , Deng Chaoyuan , Wang Wei , Sheng Hua , Zhao Jincai
Published: July 2024

Artificial photosynthesis, harnessing solar energy to convert CO2 into hydrocarbons, presents a promising solution for climate change and energy scarcity. However, photocatalytic CO2 reduction often terminates at the CO stage due to limited electron transfer capacity, hindering the formation of higher‐energy hydrocarbons such as CH4. This study introduces, for the first time, an in‐situ atmosphere regulation strategy, refined from molecular imprinting methodologies, using dynamically reacting molecules to precisely engineer photocatalytic surface sites for selective *CO adsorption and hydrogenation in CO2‐to‐CH4 conversion. Specifically, the single‐atom Cu catalyst (Cu‐SA‐CO) is prepared by anchoring single‐atom Cu onto defective TiO2 substrates (Cu‐SA‐CO) under a CO reduction atmosphere. Under illumination, the catalyst exhibited outstanding CH4 selectivity (almost 100%) and productivity (58.5 µmol g−1 h−1). Mechanistic investigations reveal that the coordination environment of the Cu single atoms is significantly affected by dynamically reacting molecules (CO and *CHxO) during synthesis, leading to a Ti‐Cu‐O structure. The structure, with the synergistic interaction between Cu single atoms and oxygen defects, significantly enhances *CO adsorption and hydrogenation, thereby promoting the formation of methane. This work pioneers the use of dynamically reactive molecules as imprinted templates to tune photocatalytic CO2 reduction selectivity, providing a novel avenue for designing efficient photocatalysts.
Monolithic DNApatite: An Elastic Apatite with Sub‐Nanometer Scale Organo–Inorganic Structures
Authors: Lee Jin Woong , Lee Byoungsang , Park Cheol Hyun , Heo Jun Hyuk , Lee Tae Yoon , Lee Dongtak , Bae Jina , Sundharbaabu Priyannth Ramasami , Yeom Won Kyun , Chae Sudong , Lim Jae‐Hyuk , Lee Seok‐Won , Choi Jin‐Seok , Bae Hyung‐Bin , Choi Jae‐Young , Lee Eun‐Ho , Yoon Dae Sung , Yeom Geun Young , Shin Hyunjung , Lee Jung Heon
Published: July 2024

Hydroxyapatite (HA) exhibits outstanding biocompatibility, bioactivity, osteoconductivity, and natural anti‐inflammatory properties. Pure HA, ion‐doped HA, and HA‐polymer composites are investigated, but critical limitations such as brittleness remain; numerous efforts are being made to address them. Herein, the novel self‐crystallization of a polymeric single‐stranded deoxyribonucleic acid (ssDNA) without additional phosphate ions for synthesizing deoxyribonucleic apatite (DNApatite) is presented. The synthesized DNApatite, DNA1Ca2.2(PO4)1.3OH2.1, has a repetitive dual phase of inorganic HA crystals and amorphous organic ssDNA at the sub‐nm scale, forming nanorods. Its mechanical properties, including toughness and elasticity, are significantly enhanced compared with those of HA nanorod, with a Young's modulus similar to that of natural bone.
A High‐Performance Organic Photovoltaic System with Versatile Solution Processability
Authors: Shao Yiming , Gao Yuan , Sun Rui , Yang Xinrong , Zhang Meimei , Liu Shanshan , Min Jie
Published: July 2024

Recently developed organic photovoltaic (OPV) materials have simultaneously closed the gaps in efficiency, stability, and cost for single‐junction devices. Nonetheless, the developed OPV materials still pose big challenges in meeting the requirements for practical applications, especially regarding the prevalent issues of solution processability. Herein, a highly efficient polymer donor, named DP3, incorporating an electron‐rich benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene unit as well as two similar and simple acceptor units is presented. Its primary objective is to enhance the interchain and/or intrachain interactions and ultimately fine‐tune bulk‐heterojunction microstructure. The DP3:L8‐BO system demonstrates the highest power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 19.12%. This system also exhibits high‐performance devices with over 18% efficiencies for five batches with various molecular weights (23.6–80.8 KDa), six different blend thicknesses (95–308 nm), differenced coating speeds (3.0–29.1 m min−1), with promising PCEs of 18.65% and 15.53% for toluene‐processed small‐area (0.029 cm2) cells and large‐area (15.40 cm2) modules, thereby demonstrating versatile solution processability of the designed DP3:L8‐BO system that is a strong candidate for commercial applications.
A New Adaptive Sliding Mode Reaching Law: Theoretical Design and Simulation Analysis
Authors: Liu Shuangxi , Lin Zehuai , Huang Wei , Yan Binbin
Published: July 2024

In the study (Wang et al. 2014), an adaptive reaching law is developed for sliding mode control (SMC). However, a potential issue arises when the sliding mode surface slides at the neighborhood of the origin, causing the adaptive gain in the mentioned scheme to chatter repeatedly. This results in input command chattering and has a negative impact on the stability of the system. In order to address this problem caused by the adaptive gain and switching function in SMC, and to further improve convergence performance, a new adaptive reaching law is proposed. This proposed reaching law improves upon the previous adaptive gain and ensures stable operation as the new adaptive gain converges to a small neighborhood of the origin. This improvement prevents chattering and guarantees that the tracking error of the system converges within a finite time. Finally, comparative simulation experiments are conducted to demonstrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed reaching law.
Advanced Ether‐Based Electrolytes for Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Shizhu , Shi Jianyu , Liu Zhenhui , Xia Yongyao
Published: July 2024

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as vital elements of energy storage systems permeating every facet of modern living, particularly in portable electronic devices and electric vehicles. However, with the sustained economic and social development, new‐generation LIBs with high energy density, wide operating temperature range, fast charge, and high safety are eagerly expected, while conventional ethylene carbonate (EC)‐based carbonate electrolytes fail to satisfy corresponding requirements. Comparatively, ether‐based electrolyte systems with fascinating properties have recently been revived in LIBs fields, and many advanced LIBs with exciting performances under ether‐based electrolytes have been developed. This review provides an extensive overview of the latest breakthroughs concerning ether‐based electrolytes applied in LIBs with intercalation cathodes. To systematically outline the progression of ether‐based electrolytes, this review is categorized from the perspective of anodes as follows: i) graphite anode‐based LIBs; ii) silicon anode‐based LIBs; iii) lithium metal anode‐based LIBs.
The strategies pursued by urban households to cope with food insecurity: Insights from selected towns in Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Borku Abraham Woru , Utallo Abera Uncha , Tora Thomas Toma
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Food security has become a major global concern, particularly in urban areas where households are struggling to address the issue of basic necessities mainly food that crucially dictates human health. Overcoming these challenges will require effective management mechanisms to inform policy interventions and enhance resilience at both local and global levels.

Objectives

This study aimed to explore the coping strategies (CS) pursued by urban households in the Southern Ethiopia. Furthermore, the focus is on how households to cope with food insecurity and how using these strategies varies within households.

Methods

A household survey questionnaire was conducted using a cross‐sectional design, combining both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data. A total of 310 household heads were targeted for the required data acquisition with: The coping strategy index (CSI) to capture how people perceive and cope with food insecurity that threatens human health.

Results

The results indicate that households used the top seven CS to address the problem of food insecurity: limiting the size of portions at mealtimes (83.9%), depending on less expensive or seasonal foods (68.1%), reducing adult consumption (66.1%), reducing the amount of food consumed (65.8%), purchasing food on credit (60.3%), renting household assets (54.8%), and migrating household members for wage labor (53.5%).

Conclusion

Moreover, the finding shows that the frequency of CS used by urban households in response to food insecurity is rated differently as never, rarely, sometimes, and more than 4 times per week. Therefore, targeted support programs for vulnerable groups should be implemented to ensure they receive adequate food during times of food insecurity wherein the victims' health status is imperatively to be bettered.
Antibiofilm Metabolites from Marine‐derived Streptomyces sp. ZS‐A31
Authors: Xu Yan , Pu Fanqi , Cui Yaqing , Wu Yanping , Lei Zhen , Jiang Yongjun
Published: July 2024

A novel compound streptothiomycin F (1), and a new natural product, N‐(5‐nitropentyl)acetamide (2), were discovered alongside ten previously identified compounds (3‐12) through solid fermentation of marine‐derived Streptomyces sp. ZS−A31 based on rice. The chemical structures of compounds 1–2 were elucidated using 1D and 2D NMR, as well as HRESIMS data analysis. Evaluation of all isolated compounds for their antibiofilm and antibacterial activities against P. aeruginosa was carried out using microdilution and crystal violet staining methods. Results highlighted the weak potency of the known compounds lumichrome (3) and vanillic acid (7) in inhibiting biofilm formation.
CO2‐Mediated Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Propane over Zn Modified SSZ‐39 Catalysts
Authors: Zhou Shiqi , Zhang Hengwei , Jiang Xiao , Liu Chunyan , Chen Shaoyun , Liu Jiaxu
Published: July 2024

To reveal the catalytic function of Brønsted acid sites (BAS) and different Zn Lewis acid sites (LAS) over SSZ‐39 and Zn modified SSZ‐39 in the direct dehydrogenation of propane (DHP) and CO2‐mediated oxidative dehydrogenation (CO2‐ODHP) to propylene, a series of Zn‐modified H(Na)SSZ‐39 catalysts with various Zn loadings was prepared and conducted comparative studies between DHP and CO2‐ODHP. Detailed characterization results reveal the Zn‐loading‐dependent formation of Zn sites, primarily including Zn2+ and [Zn−O−Zn]2+, as well as their contributions in generating Lewis acid sites while neutralizing Brønsted acid sites of HSSZ‐39, namely bridged Si(OH)Al groups. In DHP, in comparison to bare HSSZ‐39, Zn/HSSZ‐39 catalysts exhibited a significantly enhanced C3H8 conversion. The presence of CO2 even further promoted C3H8 conversion in comparison to DHP. Given the above observations, we prepared Zn/NaSSZ‐39, in which the incorporation of Na further enriches the Lewis acid sites while neutralizing Brønsted acid sites of zeolite. Zn/NaSSZ‐39 even outperforms Zn/HSSZ‐39 catalysts with almost doubled C3H6 yield for CO2‐ODHP. The BAS has a poor CO2‐ODHP performance but can enhance the CO2 conversion towards CO significantly, while the Zn LAS is favorable for the CO2‐ODHP reaction, and plausible reaction paths of CO2‐ODHP on active sites are proposed.
Evaluating artificial intelligence–enhanced digital urine cytology for bladder cancer diagnosis
Authors: Liu Tien‐Jen , Yang Wen‐Chi , Huang Shin‐Min , Yang Wei‐Lei , Wu Hsing‐Ju , Ho Hui Wen , Hsu Shih‐Wen , Yeh Cheng‐Hung , Lin Ming‐Yu , Hwang Yi‐Ting , Chu Pei‐Yi
Published: July 2024

Background

This study evaluated the diagnostic effectiveness of the AIxURO platform, an artificial intelligence–based tool, to support urine cytology for bladder cancer management, which typically requires experienced cytopathologists and substantial diagnosis time.

Methods

One cytopathologist and two cytotechnologists reviewed 116 urine cytology slides and corresponding whole‐slide images (WSIs) from urology patients. They used three diagnostic modalities: microscopy, WSI review, and AIxURO, per The Paris System for Reporting Urinary Cytology (TPS) criteria. Performance metrics, including TPS‐guided and binary diagnosis, inter‐ and intraobserver agreement, and screening time, were compared across all methods and reviewers.

Results

AIxURO improved diagnostic accuracy by increasing sensitivity (from 25.0%–30.6% to 63.9%), positive predictive value (PPV; from 21.6%–24.3% to 31.1%), and negative predictive value (NPV; from 91.3%–91.6% to 95.3%) for atypical urothelial cell (AUC) cases. For suspicious for high‐grade urothelial carcinoma (SHGUC) cases, it improved sensitivity (from 15.2%–27.3% to 33.3%), PPV (from 31.3%–47.4% to 61.1%), and NPV (from 91.6%–92.7% to 93.3%). Binary diagnoses exhibited an improvement in sensitivity (from 77.8%–82.2% to 90.0%) and NPV (from 91.7%–93.4% to 95.8%). Interobserver agreement across all methods showed moderate consistency (κ = 0.57–0.61), with the cytopathologist demonstrating higher intraobserver agreement than the two cytotechnologists across the methods (κ = 0.75–0.88). AIxURO significantly reduced screening time by 52.3%–83.2% from microscopy and 43.6%–86.7% from WSI review across all reviewers. Screening‐positive (AUC+) cases required more time than negative cases across all methods and reviewers.

Conclusions

AIxURO demonstrates the potential to improve both sensitivity and efficiency in bladder cancer diagnostics via urine cytology. Its integration into the cytopathological screening workflow could markedly decrease screening times, which would improve overall diagnostic processes.
Study on the role of MYCN in retinoblastoma by inhibiting p53 and activating wnt/βcatenin/Fra‐1 signaling pathway by reducing DKK3
Authors: Chen Xinke , Ouyang Lijuan , Ke Ning , Pi Lianhong , Zhou Xiyuan
Published: July 2024

Retinoblastoma (RB) is a pediatric malignancy, typically diagnosed at birth or during early childhood. The pathogenesis of RB is marked by the amplification of the Basic Helix–Loop–Helix (BHLH) Transcription Factor MYCN, which serves as a transcriptional regulator capable of binding to Dickkopf 3 (DKK3). However, the precise role of DKK3 in the malignant progression of RB cells caused by MYCN remains elusive. In the present study, the expression of MYCN was either overexpressed or interfered in RB cells. Subsequently, the expression level of DKK3 was assessed through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was evaluated using the Cell Counting Kit‐8 assay and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine staining, while cell cycle progression and apoptosis were analyzed by flow cytometry and western blot analysis, respectively. Additionally, the expression of proteins involved in the Wnt/β‐catenin/Fra‐1/p53 signaling pathway was evaluated via western blot analysis. To gain further insights, Wnt agonists and the P53 inhibitor PFT‐α were introduced into exploration. The current investigation revealed a negative correlation between the expression levels of MYCN and DKK3 in RB cells. Additionally, DKK3 overexpression inhibited cell proliferation, promoted cell apoptosis, and arrested cell cycle in RB cells with high expression of MYCN. Moreover, enhanced DKK3 expression inhibited proliferation, promoted cell cycle arrest and apoptosis of RB cells by modulating the wnt/βcatenin/Fra‐1/p53 signaling pathway. Furthermore, in vivo experiments revealed that overexpression of DKK3 inhibits the growth of RB tumors. Collectively, our findings elucidate that MYCN stimulates the Wnt/β‐catenin/Fra‐1 pathway by suppressing DKK3 expression, ultimately suppressing p53 activity and contributing to malignant progression of RB.
Detection differences between eDNA and mid‐water trawls are driven by fish biomass and habitat preferences
Authors: Rehill Tessa , Millard‐Martin Ben , Lemay Matt , Sheridan Kate , Mueller Anya , Morien Evan , Clemente‐Carvalho Rute B. G. , Hunt Brian P. V. , Sunday Jennifer M.
Published: July 2024

Marine scientific trawl surveys are commonly used to assess the distribution and population size of fisheries‐related species, yet the method is effort‐intensive and can be environmentally destructive. Sequencing environmental DNA (eDNA) from water samples can reveal the presence of organisms in a community without capturing them; however, we expect the detectability of taxa to differ between eDNA and trawl surveys, and understanding how species traits and population variables contribute to detection differences can help calibrate our expectations from each form of sampling. Here, we coupled eDNA metabarcoding and capture trawl surveys in British Columbia, Canada, to examine species traits that explain recurrent differences in detectability between the two methods, including habitat, body size, and biomass. At the regional scale, 17 of 23 fish species (74%) captured by the trawl were detected by eDNA metabarcoding, and 39 additional species were detected by eDNA sampling only. We found that eDNA metabarcoding disproportionately detected trawl‐caught species with greater local biomass (i.e., greater biomass in the adjacent trawl). Fish detected only in eDNA had a greater range of body lengths and a broader range of habitat preferences outside the trawls' target size and sampling areas. Our results suggest that with our level of sampling, eDNA metabarcoding can adequately recapitulate detection of fish communities detected by trawl surveys, but with a bias toward fish of high population biomass and greater inclusion of fish from outside the trawled area.
Comparative evaluation of craving, sleep quality, sexual function and quality of life in opioid use disorder patients in remission with buprenorphine/naloxone maintenance treatment
Authors: Türker Zübeyde Güllü , Erdoğan Ali , Cinemre Buket , Metin Özmen , Kulaksızoğlu Burak
Published: July 2024

Aim

To compare opioid use disorder (OUD) patients who continue to use opioids and are in remission with buprenorphine‐naloxone (B/N) in terms of some parameters and to evaluate the relationship between B/N dose and these parameters.

Method

We included 141 OUD patients in remission with B/N maintenance treatment for at least 6 months, 141 who still used opioids, and 141 healthy volunteers. Substance Craving Scale (SCS), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), and Short Form 36 (SF‐36) were administered.

Results

PSQI scores and ASEX scores were higher in those who continued to use opiates than in OUD in remission, and in OUD in remission compared to controls. OUD patients with current opioid use also had lower SF‐36 scores compared to both patients in remission and healthy controls. SCS, PSQI, ASEX, and SF‐36 scores were similar when the three groups were examined based on the dosage of B/N (below 8, 8–15, and 16 mg/day and above) use in OUD in remission.

Conclusions

Quality of life, craving, sleep and sexual functions improved significantly with B/N; however, these effects are not dependent on B/N dosage.
Cervical cancer incidence in Denmark: Disentangling determinants of time trend
Authors: Lynge Elsebeth , Bennekou Schroll Jeppe , Andersen Berit , Balasubramaniam Kirubakaran , Poulsgaard Frandsen Anna , Ibfelt Else Helene , Jochumsen Kirsten Marie , Bruun Laustsen Maja Ulrikka , Nielsen Susanne , Salmani Rouzbeh , Schledermann Doris , Hall Viborg Petra Birgitta , Waldstrøm Marianne , Napolitano George , Serizawa Reza
Published: July 2024

Cervical cancer is a preventable disease. Nevertheless, stagnation has been seen in incidence rates also in countries with well‐functioning healthcare. On this basis, we investigated associations between control interventions and changes in cervical cancer incidence in Denmark from 2009 to 2022. Data on human papillomavirus (HPV)‐vaccination were retrieved from Staten's Serum Institute; on screening recommendations from Danish Health Authority, on screening performance from Danish Quality Database for Cervical Screening; and on cervical cancer incidence from Nordcan and Danish Cancer Register. We reported coverage with HPV vaccination (1+ dose); coverage with cervical cell samples; number of women with primary HPV tests; proportion of non‐normal cell samples without timely follow‐up; number of conizations; and cervical cancer incidence rates. In 2022, all women aged ≤29 had been offered childhood HPV vaccination with coverage of 80%–90%. By 2020–2022, the cervical cancer incidence rate in women aged 20–29 was 3 per 100,000; at level of disease elimination. In 2017, women aged 70+ were offered a one‐time HPV screening, and by 2020–2022, the old‐age peak in cervical cancer incidence had largely disappeared. From 2009 to 2022, proportion of non‐normal cell samples without timely follow‐up decreased from 20% to 10%, and conventional cytology was largely replaced by SurePath liquid‐based cytology; these factors could explain the steady decrease in cervical cancer incidence rate. Implementation of primary HPV screening in women aged 30–59 in 2021 was reflected in a, probably temporary, increase in the 2022 cervical cancer incidence rate. In conclusion, combined interventions with childhood HPV vaccination; one‐time HPV screening of elderly women; and better management of screening broke previous stagnation in cervical cancer incidence rate.
Medical marijuana legalization and parenting behaviors: An analysis of the time use of parents
Authors: Bansak Cynthia , Kim Jun Hyung
Published: July 2024

Can access to medical marijuana improve parenting? We examine the consequences of state‐level medical marijuana legalization (MML) on parents' time use. Medical marijuana may increase parenting time by improving parents' health but only if parents do not abuse marijuana. We find that MML increases parenting time, with bigger impacts for those less likely to abuse marijuana. The effects correspond to 12.56% of the gap in active childcare and 8.92% of the gap in passive childcare by parents' education level. MML also reduces inactive time and increases sleep, consistent with medical marijuana's health benefits.
MicroRNA‐505‐3p mediates cell motility of epithelial ovarian cancer via suppressing PEAK1 expression
Authors: Wu Yanni , Xue Lei , Xiong Wei , Li Haiyang , Wu Jiao , Xie Wei , Long Ying , Liu Ying , Luo Chenhui
Published: July 2024

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small RNA genes with important roles in cancer biology regulation. There are considerable studies regarding the roles of microRNA‐505‐3p (miR‐505‐3p) in cancer development and progression, but the function of miR‐505‐3p in epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) has not been fully clarified. Comparative analysis of miRNA expression data set was used to select differentially expressed miRNAs. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was applied to detect expression levels of RNAs, while western blot and immunofluorescence staining were performed to detect expression levels of proteins of interest. The motility of EOC cells was assessed by wound healing and transwell assays. The binding and regulating relationship between miRNA and its direct target gene was investigated by dual‐luciferase assay. Our results show that miR‐505‐3p was upregulated in recurrent EOC, which significantly inhibits EOC cell motility via modulating cell epithelial–mesenchymal transition. Furthermore, our results indicated that PEAK1 expression was inhibited by direct binding of miR‐505‐3p into its 3′‐URT in EOC cells. Importantly, knockdown of PEAK1 attenuated the effect of mi‐505‐3p inhibitor on EOC cell migration and invasion. In conclusion, our findings indicate that miRNA‐505‐3p inhibits EOC cell motility by targeting PEAK1.
Fracture resistance of ultratranslucent multilayered zirconia veneers with different facial thicknesses
Authors: Jurado Carlos A. , Tsujimoto Akimasa , Rojas‐Rueda Silvia , Mekled Salwa , Alaqeely Razan , Alsayed Hussain D. , Alhotan Abdulaziz
Published: July 2024

To assess the fracture resistance of computer‐aided design and computer‐aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) ultratranslucent multilayered zirconia (5Y‐YZP) veneers with varying facial thickness. Sixty translucent zirconia veneers were designed and milled using a chairside CAD/CAM system for maxillary central incisors. The butt joint incisal veneer tooth preparations consisted of 1.00 mm incisal reduction, 0.40 mm chamfer margin, and three different facial reductions; 0.50, 0.75, and 1 mm, respectively. The ceramic veneers were cemented to printed resin dies and subjected to thermal cycling. Subsequently, the restorations were loaded with compressive loading force, and fracture occurrences were recorded. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) images of the fractured specimens were captured. The fracture resistance varied among the veneers with different facial thicknesses. Ultratranslucent zirconia veneers with a facial thickness of 1.00 mm exhibited the highest fracture resistance values (742.15 N), followed by those with 0.75 mm facial thickness (673 N). Minimally invasive veneers with 0.50 mm thickness displayed similar fracture resistance as thicker veneers with 0.75 mm. However, veneers with 1.00 mm thickness displayed the highest values. SEM fracture patterns for 0.50 and 0.75 mm display similar and fewer crack lines than 1.00 mm veneers.

Research Highlights

Minimally invasive zirconia veneers exhibit similar fracture resistance to thicker veneers.
Peri‐implantitis induction and resolution around zirconia versus titanium implants
Authors: Esplin Kaleb C. , Tsai Yi‐Wen , Vela Kathryn , Diogenes Anibal , Hachem Lea El , Palaiologou Archontia , Cochran David L. , Kotsakis Georgios A.
Published: July 2024

Background

This study compared titanium and zirconia implant ligature‐induced peri‐implant defect progression and response to regenerative surgical intervention.

Methods

Eight tissue‐level endosseous implants were placed in 6 mixed‐breed foxhounds, with 2 zirconia and 2 titanium alternating in each hemimandible. Cotton ligatures were placed subgingivally for 16 weeks followed by 8 weeks of spontaneous progression. Standardized radiographs were captured every 2 weeks to evaluate the rate of bone loss. Regenerative surgery was performed utilizing water‐jet decontamination, enamel matrix derivative, and locally harvested autogenous bone. After 16 weeks of healing, final radiographic bone levels as well as probing depths, recession, and clinical attachment levels were assessed.

Results

All 48 implants integrated successfully. The final average post‐ligature radiographic defects were 2.88 and 3.05 mm for titanium and zirconia implants, respectively. There was no significant difference between materials in the rate of radiographic bone loss (p = 0.09). Following regenerative surgery, the total average amount of radiographic bone gain was 1.41 and 1.20 mm for titanium and zirconia, respectively. The percentage of defect fill was 51.56% and 37.98% (p = 0.03) for titanium and zirconia, respectively. Inter‐group differences were minimal for clinical parameters at the time of sacrifice including periodontal pocket depths (p = 0.81), recession (p = 0.98), or clinical attachment levels (p = 0.51).

Conclusions

No significant difference was found in the rate of peri‐implant defect development between titanium and zirconia implants. Both materials gained significant radiographic bone following regenerative surgery with significantly greater defect percentage fill in titanium implants. The final clinical parameters were similar in both groups.
Convergence analysis of state estimation for UAV formation under GPS‐denied environments
Authors: Ding Yu , Wang Zhengye , Cong Yirui , Wang Xiangke
Published: July 2024

In this article, we focus on the state estimation and formation control problem for a multi‐UAV system, where only parts of UAVs have GPS measurements, that is, the anchors, and the other UAVs measure their relative positions with anchors. With a second‐order discrete‐time model of each UAV in the formation, we analyze the convergence of state estimation (including its expectation and covariance) for commonly used consensus‐based formation control protocols, under the effect of control and measurement noise. More specifically, based on the discrete‐time stability analysis, we obtain the sufficient and necessary conditions for the expectation stability of the formation control. Using the fixed point theorem in positive symmetric matrix subspace and observability analysis, we rigorously prove that the covariance of estimation is bounded if and only if the anchor node set is globally reachable. Based on our analysis, the formation control parameters and system topology can be designed to satisfy sufficient conditions, such that the desired formation pattern can be achieved for the multi‐UAV dynamic system under GPS‐denied environments. Simulation results corroborate the effectiveness of our theoretical results.
Effect of the electric field on the free volume investigated from positron annihilation lifetime and dielectric properties of sulfonated PVC/PMMA
Authors: Elsharkawy Mohamed R. M. , Mohammed Wael M.
Published: July 2024

Polymer electrolyte membranes (PEMs) play a vital role in electrochemical devices, facilitating ion conduction while blocking gases and electrons. Their effectiveness is closely linked to their microstructural properties, especially the free volume, which impacts ionic conductivity, mechanical strength, and overall device performance. This study examines the behavior of PVC/PMMA/SSA blends under electric fields, using Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS) to assess free volume and dielectric properties. The study involved preparing and characterizing membranes through x‐ray diffraction (XRD), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and PALS. XRD results indicated semi‐crystalline structures with changes in intensity due to temperature variations, while TGA highlighted changes in thermal stability under different electric fields. PALS measurements showed that free volume varied with temperature and electric field strength, influencing the material's dielectric and mechanical characteristics. The results revealed that higher electric fields reduced free volume while enhancing dielectric properties. The dielectric constant and loss were found to depend on frequency, which was affected by the polar SO3H groups. Impedance spectroscopy provided further insights into the electrical properties, showing increased dc conductivity with stronger electric fields. A correlation between the free volume investigated from PAL and the electrical properties was observed. This study emphasizes the significance of free volume and external electric field in optimizing PEMs for advanced energy applications.
Metabolomics‐based profiling of five Salvia L. (Lamiaceae) species using untargeted data analysis workflow
Authors: Kharazian Navaz , Dehkordi Farzaneh Jafari , Xiang Chun‐Lei
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The genus Salvia L., a member of the family Lamiaceae, is a keystone genus with a wide range of medicinal properties. It possesses a rich metabolite source that has long been used to treat different disorders.

Objectives

Due to a deficiency of untargeted metabolomic profiling in the genus Salvia, this work attempts to investigate a comprehensive mass spectral library matching, computational data annotations, exclusive biomarkers, specific chemotypes, intraspecific metabolite profile variation, and metabolite enrichment by a case study of five medicinal species of Salvia.

Material and methods

Aerial parts of each species were subjected to QTRAP liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) analysis workflow based on untargeted metabolites. A comprehensive and multivariate analysis was acquired on the metabolite dataset utilizing MetaboAnalyst 6.0 and the Global Natural Products Social Molecular Networking (GNPS) Web Platform.

Results

The untargeted approach empowered the identification of 117 metabolites by library matching and 92 nodes annotated by automated matching. A machine learning algorithm as substructural topic modeling, MS2LDA, was further implemented to explore the metabolite substructures, resulting in four Mass2Motifs. The automated library newly discovered a total of 23 metabolites. In addition, 87 verified biomarkers of library matching, 58 biomarkers of GNPS annotations, and 11 specific chemotypes were screened.

Conclusion

Integrative spectral library matching and automated annotation by the GNPS platform provide comprehensive metabolite profiling through a workflow. In addition, QTRAP LC–MS/MS with multivariate analysis unveiled reliable information about inter and intraspecific levels of differentiation. The rigorous investigation of metabolite profiling presents a large‐scale overview and new insights for chemotaxonomy and pharmaceutical studies.